oled herself with a notion, that he might bring his cousin
Henrietta back with him.

Many tears were shed at our parting; indeed, the grief of his mother was
so intense, that my son seemed almost inclined to give up his
inclination; but Mr. Horner made some observations about the transit of
Venus, so interesting that Ernest could not resist. He left us,
promising to bring us back everything we wished for. In the mean time
Captain Krusenstern left us a good supply of powder, provisions, seeds,
and some capital tools, to the great delight of Fritz and Jack. They
regretted their brother greatly, but diverted their minds from sorrow by
application to mechanics, assisted by the intelligent Parabery. They
have already succeeded in constructing, near the cascade, a corn-mill
and a saw-mill, and have built a very good oven.

We miss Ernest very much. Though his taste for study withdrew him a good
deal from us, and he was not so useful as his brothers, we found his
calm and considerate advice often of value, and his mildness always
spread a charm over our circle, in joy or in trouble.

Except this little affliction, we are very happy. Our labours are
divided regularly. Fritz and Jack manage the Board of Works. They have
opened a passage through the rock which divided us from the other side
of the island; thus doubling our domain and our riches. At the same
time, they formed a dwelling for Madame Hirtel near our own, from the
same excavation in the rock. Fritz took great pains with it; the windows
are made of oiled paper instead of glass; but we usually assemble in our
large work-room, which is very well lighted.

Francis has the charge of our flocks and of the poultry, all greatly
increased. For me, I preside over the grand work of agriculture. The two
mothers, their two daughters, and Canda, manage the garden, spin,
weave, take care of our clothes, and attend to household matters. Thus
we all work, and everything prospers. Several families of the natives,
pupils of Mr. Willis, have obtained leave, through him, to join us, and
are settled at Falcon's Nest, and at the Farm. These people assist us in
the cultivation of our ground, and our dear missionary in the
cultivation of our souls. Nothing is wanting to complete our happiness
but the return of dear Ernest.

POSTSCRIPT TWO YEARS AFTER.

We are now as happy as we can desire,--our son is returned. According to
my wishes, he had made out Captain Johnson and Lieutenant B