Page:The Chinese Repository - Volume 01.djvu/31

 When we first arrived, our appearance spread a general panic. It was well known by the predictions of the Bali books, that a certain religion of the west would vanquish Budhism; and, as the votaries of a western religion had conquered Burmah, people presumed, that their religious principles would prove equally victorious in Siam. By and by, fears subsided; but were, on a sudden, again roused, when there were brought to Bankok, Burman tracts, written by Mr. Judson, in which it was stated that the Gospel would very soon triumph over all false religions. Constant inquiries were made about the certain time, when this should take place; the passages of Holy Writ, which we quoted in confirmation of the grand triumph of Christ's Kingdom, were duly weighed, and only few objections started. At this time, the Siamese looked with great anxiety upon the part which the English would take, in the war between Quedah and themselves. When the King first heard of their neutrality, he exclaimed: 'I behold finally, that there is some truth in Christianity, which formerly, I considered very doubtful.' This favourable opinion influenced the people to become friendly with us. The consequence was, that we gained access to persons of all ranks, and of both sexes. Under such circumstances, it would have been folly to leave the country, if Providence had not ordered other-wise, in disabling me by sickness, from farther labour there. A pain in my lest side, accompanied by headache, great weakness, and want of appetite, threw me upon my couch. Though I endeavoured to rally my robust constitution, I could readily perceive, that I was verging, daily, with quick strides, towards the grave; and a burial place was actually engaged.

Bright as the prospects were, there were also great obstacles in the way, to retard the achievement of our endeavours, the salvation of souls. The Siamese are very fickle, and will often be very anxious to embrace an opinion to-day, which tomorrow they will entirely reject. Their friendship is