the missionaries, and young clergyman were present,
while my soul was earnestly engaged for the good of the
Indians: but I verily believe by their proceedings, it was
their opinion that a woman ought not to preach: for one
of them said afterwards, had I Come to teach them to
knit and sew, it would be very well. From two until six,
I abode, and told them I hoped to see them among Christ’s
sheep at His Right Hand. The women presented me an
address, written by Capt. Hendrick, an Indian Chief, who
was my interpreter. This address was to shew their affec-
tion and gratitude, for crossing the Great Ocean, to call
them to the Fold of Jesus, which some already are in, be-
ing Lambs of His Care, and Sheep of His Pasture. I felt
sorry to be obliged to trouble A. S. for a horse, but if it be
ever in my power, I will reward him; and I am equally
obliged to him for his kindness, in setting me four miles
to Vernon, to the residence of my kind father Young. [19th 8th mo. 1805, Vernon, Oneida County.] AN ADDRESS
From the Women of the Muhheconnuk nation of Indians,
written on their behalf, in their native language, and
translated into English by Captain Hendrick, one of the
Indian chiefs, and presented to Dorothy Ripley, on her
departure from amongst them. DEAR SISTER,
WE, the poor women of the Muhheconnuk
nation,
wish to speak few words to you, to inform you,
that while
our forefathers were sitting by the side of their
ancient
fire-place, about eighty years ago, our father, Rev. Mr.
Sergeant’s father, came
amongst them with the message
of the Great and Good Spirit, which he
then began to de-
liver to them. He was the first minister of the
gospel
that ever preached to our fathers, and the Great and
Good
Spirit blessed his labours, by which means many of our
poor
natives were turned from darkness to light.
Our ancestors loved their minister, whom they looked