There must be something of
special interest. Yes, the fishermen from the schooner are coming
ashore in their boat, and I perceive their flag is flying half-mast
high, indicating a death aboard their vessel. They came into the bay
yesterday, piloted by some of our Eskimoes, and bringing a dying
comrade. Their request for medicine was at once granted, but the poor
man lay unconscious. His "mates" said he had not lacked spiritual
exhortation and comfort, adding simply and humbly, "several of us know
the way, sir." So they did, as was evident from further observation
of, and conversation with them. They were very grateful for Christian
literature.[B] Now they have come for boards to make a coffin for
their dead comrade, and the Eskimo women and children watch the
strangers with curiosity, but not rudely. On the whole, I think our
Eskimoes very well behaved. Their Christianity has certainly improved
their manners in everyday life, as well as made them remarkably devout
in church.
There is the church bell. Being the first Monday in the month, it is
the missionary prayer-meeting. Let us go. The interior of the church
is similar to that at Hopedale already described, and the congregation
is more numerous.
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