March 30, 1820

March 30, 1820 - Let us thank God and take courage.  Early this morning the long looked for Owahyee and the cloud capt and snow spt Mauna Keah appear full in view to the joy of the animated multitude on board (11 o'clock A.M.) We are now coasting along the noth-east part of the Island, so near the shore as to see the numerous habitations, cultivated fields, smoke rising in different parts, fresh vegetation, rocks, rivulets, cascades, trees &c.  and with the help of glasses men and women,, immortal beings purchased with redeeming blood.  We are much pleased, not to say delighted with the scene and long to be on shore. (4 o'clock - P.M.) Pass Mowe on the right.  Having turned the Northern extremity of O. Capt. B. this afternoon sent off a boat to make inquiries respecting the king &c.  Mr. Hunnewell, a mate, Thos. Hopoo, J. Tamoree and others, went nearly to the shore and fell in with 10 or 12 native fishermen in their canoes, who readily gave the importatn information that the aged King Tameamaah is dead - that Reehoreeho his son succeeds him - that the images of his Gods are burned - that the men eat with the women in all the Islands, - that one chief only was killed in settling the affirs of government, and he for refusing to destroy his Gods. - that Reehoreeho the young king, and Kiimokoo the first chief, sometimes called Billy Pitt, both reside at Owhyhee.  If these are facts they are interesting facts, and seem to show that Christ is overturning in order to take possession and that these Isles are waiting for his law, while the old and decaying pillars of idolatry are falling to the ground.  The moment seems favorable for the introduction of Christianity and the customs of civilized life, and our hopes are strengthened that there will be welcome.  Whatever be the moral character and habits of the young king, we believe that these important particulars may with some confidence be rested on ; 1st that he is specially desirous for improvement in learning; 2nd that he has long been indifferent to Idol worship, that he is not unfriendly to the whites.  Our hearts do rejoice, though we are disappointed in not being allowed to preach Christ to that venerable Chief, - and tho' we believe we shall have trials enough to give exercise to faith and patience, yet our hearts do rejoice to hear the voices of one crying, "In the wilderness prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for your God".