INTRODUCTION

The following information about Charles Minot Griffith was published in

the records of Wesleyan University, Middletown, Connecticut:

1888 Graduates

1518. (Charles) Minot Griffith. Ph. B. (sp. hon., Mod. Lang.); M.A. Cornell
University, 1894. <l>N0 Born April 14, 1863 Silver Springs, N. Y.
Taught in Housatonic Valley Institute, Cornwall, Conn. 1888-90.
Principal of a public school, Hibernia, N. J., 1890-91; High School,
New Hartford, Conn., 1891-92; High School, Mystic, Conn.,. 1892-93.
Graduate student in Cornell University, 1893-94. Missionary (teacher
and preacher) in Chile, S. A., 1895-98. Preached as supplyin Collins
Center, N. Y., 1899-1900. Director of the Institute Pedagogico,
Cuenca,Ecuador, S. A., 1900-01. Taught in Eastman Business College,
Poughkeepsie, N.Y., 1901-02; High School, San Juan, P.R., 1902-07.
Missionary teacher in La Paz, Bolivia, S. A., 1907-1908. Clerk,
Department of Education, San Juan, P.R., 1908-18. Secretary-
treasurer, University of Porto Rico, 1918 _ _ _ .Joined Western South
American Mission Conference, M. E. Church, 1897. Located, 1902.
Author: Promotion and Retardation in the Public Schools of Porto Rico.
Married November 28, 1894, Elva Roxana Kniffin, of Perry, N. Y.
who died May 30, 1917. Married November 29, 1917, Truth Winnifred
Spangler, of La Grange, Ind. Children: Dency Roxana, b. May 16, 1899,
d. September 2, 1900; Llewellyn, b. August 29, 1918; Jane Winnifred, b.
January 12, 1922; two others, d. in infancy.

The ensuing pages tell an account of the missionary careers of a young

couple, newly married, in South America. Their adventure was filled with high
expectations, triumphs, happiness, and great personal sorrow. Through it all
their faith never wavered. It is truly an inspiration for us all!.

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 JOURNAL OF ELVA AND CHARLES MINOT GRIFFITH

1895 - 1900

On this 21st of February, 1895, at 11:30 A. M. at Herkimer, N. Y. ,

Charles Minot and Elva R. Griffith received the appointment to Concepcion,
Chili, S. A. as teachers in the Colegio Americano. With this begins this
journal.
After our dinner we wrote all necessary letters. The announcement of
our appointment was made at the Student's Prayer Meeting at Folts Mission
Institute that evening and we attended our last Thursday evening prayer
meeting at the church. Our church relations in our brief sojourn among this
people have been pleasant, but we do not feel so near to them as those at
Folts, teachers and scholars with whom we had associated each day . We cannot
express all that this association has been to us. At Folts we found them
living as one large Christian family of which we became a part. A most
devoted prayerful and earnest spirit pervaded the very atmosphere. We go
forth feeling that we have the prayers, the hearts of this Christian family
ever with us, and no blessing could be more helpful excepting the presence of
the everloving and never changing Heavenly Father.
The morning of the 22nd exercises were held in the chapel of the
Institute by the students commemorating Washington's birthday. In the evening
we gathered in the parlors and had a pleasant evening together. We learned
for the first time that Miss Perkins was soon to go to Florida for her health.
As we were about to bid them all good night, Prof. Davies asked us all to join
hands and sing together "Blest be the Tie that binds" and afterward we all
knelt in prayer. Prof. Davies' prayer was one long to be remembered. In the
morning of the 23rd we gathered in the chapel and had our pictures taken in a
group and at five o'clock we met for our last student's prayer meeting at
Folts. Miss Croucher led and read the scripture which tells of the seventy
who went forth. It was a blessed service. We remained to tea with them and
tarried a little time afterward. Sabbath, the 24th, we attended morning
service. Were at Prof. Davies for dinner. Attended Christian Endeavor, the
usual consecration service and then followed the farewell service. Prof.
Davies presided and made the first address in which he compares our going out
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to the first missionaries, Saul and Barnabas. Rev. Mr. Davidson spoke in
behalf of the church; Miss Croucher for the students of Folts, Prof. Davies
already spoken for the faculty. Mr. McCuthon for the Christian Endeavor, Mr.
Gebhard, pastor of the Reformed Church in behalf of the churches of the
village. Then followed a short address by Mr. Griffith telling of his call to
the work and of the field to which we go. I also spoke a few words. Miss
Allen, the preceptress, led in prayer at the close. The music was by the
choir with the exception of a solo "All for Jesus" by Miss Blanchard. At the
opening of the service, Mr. Griffith led in reading responsively the 91st Ps.
and Rev. Mr. Davidson offered prayer.
The morning of the 25th we left Herkimer for Perry. Teachers and
students were at the depot to bid us goodbye and sang together "He leadeth
me." Mrs. Davis gave me her book on early Methodism and Miss Jennie Bingham,
two of her missionary stories in tract form. We also _had the autographs of
all those in attendance at Folts. At Whitesboro, Mr. Fergueson met us and we
took dinner with him and learned much from him that would be helpful to us in
going to our new home. In the afternoon returned to Utica to take our train
and again met Prof. Davies at the depot. At night we were in Union Springs at
B. F. Johnson's. All attended the lecture but Lena and myself. In the
afternoon of the next day, Tuesday, went to B. G.'s and met Yawger Bray and
family. Remained here for the night and in the morning had a call from Mrs.
and Miss Hammond. Went to ride about the village seeing the Yawger homestead.
Called at Aunt Martha Alverson's and found Aunt Mary Smith and two of her
daughters there. Took tea at B. F.'s and was again at B. G.'s for the night.
Pearl gave us one of her drawings. The 28th in the morning we leave for
Rochester and Batavia, Benoit coming through with us as far as Rochester.
Arrived at the city at 2:00 P.M. and traded until 4:00 when Clara Lewis met us
and we visited together for an hour and a half. We had supper and came
through on the Leheigh, 6:45 for Batavia. Mr. Griffith saw Rev. C. G. Lowell
in the city today. March 1st - Did some trading in Batavia and at four
o'clock we all started for Perry. At Leroy, I met Mrs. Whitney of Pavillion,
one of the good workers of the F.M.S. As we boarded the Silver Lake train we
were all surprised to see Mother Griffith who was just returning from Buffalo
where she had been for treatment of her eyes. Found a letter from Celia
awaiting us, also one from Missionary Society containing a check for $50.00
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for outgoing expenses. Saturday morning to see my sister and called on
others. Benoit joined us at night. Sabbath, we saw and greeted nearly all
the home church friends. In the morning service Minot read the scriptures.
In S.S. it was the regular missionary day and nearly $15 was given. The
evening public service was a report of the recently held Epworth League
convention. The next morning Fred and his wife left us. I was ill all day.
Minot was packing. March 5th. Went to Sister's to sew in the A.M. About 2
o'clock Cousins Charles and Mary Lamb drove up with Auntie Hillman. We all
had tea together.
March 6th. Another sick day in which I had to remain in bed. Myron
Kershaw, now in Castile, came to see me and Flo came to bid us goodbye as she
starts tomorrow for her new home in the west. An E. L. social which we could
not attend.
March 7th. Ladies of the missionary society quilt my quilt and did
other sewing for me. Bid Auntie Hillman goodbye. She leaves tomorrow
morning.
March 9th. Was sewing. On the morning of the 9th had our photos taken.
Sabbath -- At church and Sunday school. Took dinner with Mr. and Mrs.
Owen. Led E. L. in evening. Had farewell service. From the 11th to 15th busy
with sewing, packing, etc. Mrs Ida Clark and Marion Sanford came to help me
with sewing, also Mrs. Billings. Everyone was so kind and thoughtful.
Attended prayer meetings during the week and was glad to see such an interest.
Minot visited Lamont Tuesday, the 12th. Father Griffith's birthday. He was
76 years old. On the 15th we were all at my Sister's for tea. In the
evening Miss quick and Garrett Roche call. We call at parsonage where the
people have assembled to keep Mr. and Mrs. Canfield's anniversary day. Found
Cousin LeGrand Griffith at Father Griffith's. Had a present of a nice warm
shawl. Miss Quick beside my Sister's family were at the train to see us off
at 8:45. Robbie went to Silver Springs with us where we waited nearly two
hours. Arrived in New York at 9:15 P.M. very tired. We stopped at the
Continental Hotel, corner of Broadway and 20th Streets.
March 17th. Attended church at Collegiate Church (Dutch Reform). Dr.
Burnell, pastor. Subject "The Purple Cup." An excellent sermon and excellent
music. In the P.M. walked across the bridge and then took cars out to Decatur
Avenue, Brooklyn, to see Fannie McIntire. Had lunch with her and attended
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Congregational Church in the evening in Brooklyn.
March 18th. --Fannie McIntire came at ten and we all went to Central
Park, visited zoological gardens and went as far as the art gallery. On our
way to the park we went through the cathedral. We came back to Macy's Dry
Goods Store where we had our lunch. We left Fannie there returning to the
hotel. Between three and four went to the Missionary Rooms to pass our
examination before the nominating board. Learned Mr. and Mrs. Harrington were
not to go to Iquique until a later steamer. Received today letters from
Auntie H., Pa and Miss Allen.
March 19th. Had early breakfast and went down to Battery Place, Castle
Garden, then walked along river to Wall Street. Visited Stock Exchange but it
was most too early to be interesting. Visited Trinity Church and as we came
out Minot met Miss Kelley who taught with him at Hibernia. Now she is a
stenographer in produce exchange. Visited Washington Market, the largest in
the city. Had lunch. After this Camp left us for City Hall and Art Gallery.
We returned to hotel and found my books Pa had sent and letters from Lena and
Gratia. We attended the meeting (monthly) of the Board at three o'clock.
Miss Robbins, niece of Mr. Howells, Perry, called just at eight. Spent the
evening in finishing our letters.
March 20th. Bright day as every day has been since we came to New York.
We went to Mission rooms at 10:45 for the farewell prayer service. Only a few
were present as a number were away to the Conferences. Prayer by Chaplain
McCabe's son. Singing - "The morning light is breaking, etc." Our
testimonies and a few words by Mr. Dodd. Dr. Baldwin spoke. Singing "Blest
be the tie that binds." Prayer by Dr. Baldwin and Benediction. Mrs. Robbins
and daughter, Dr. Baldwin and Camp went to the pier. Boat did not go out
until after one o'clock. Mrs. R. and Mary also Camp waved to us until we were
out of sight. We have on board the City of Para passengers as follows: U.S.
Consul to San Salvador from Parkersburg, West Va. and party consisting of his
wife, two children Katherine aged six and Fred aged three, the former a
great pet with all on board, the latter a spoiled child. Miss Lou Stevenson,
the wife's sister and Otto Munchmeyer, a cousin. The Consul's name is Fred
Munchmeyer. There are five Spaniards, one a minister plenipotentiary from
Nicaragua returning from London and Washington. Another most genial man,
expecting to meet his family at Panama having come from Guayaquil, their
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former home. He is to take them back to New York City to live. Said he was
tired of strife and dissension in this southern country. There are two more
ladies in our company -- Mrs. Van Aucken, the chaperone of the younger Abby
Muir, daughter of the shipping agent at New York. They are taking a pleasure
trip. Six Germans -- One a good musician who with his cousin has been
traveling for the past two years. A party of four Englishmen who are on their
way to the mines in Central America. There is the detective whose home is in
Virginia, the electrician whose home is where his trunk or sachel is, on his
way to Central America; the actor whose health has failed him and is on his
way to southern California. I believe the last three with us were the only
Americans tho the Munchmeyers were American born. There was an Englishman who
was coming south to Peru and Chile, as an electrician, but failed to get the
steamer which we took.
Smooth sailing until in the night when we awoke greatly shaken. It
continued rough all day the 21st and many were seasick. Many vacant places at
table. A little quieter at night. Our meals are served as follows: coffee
and toast with eggs in the morning; breakfast at 10:30. Dinner at 5:00 while
between breakfast and dinner we may have crackers and cheese. The salt air
often makes us very hungry. The first few days when it was so rough and our
food did not relish, we longed for some of the home cooking in which no
colored man had had a hand, but now after a few days we are beginning to
relish it all.
On the morning of the 22nd when at breakfast our boat stopped. The
Captain left the table hurriedly and as soon as we had finished we went on
deck. We found we had lost our wheel or propellor, and we were powerless to
help ourselves. Just then a sail was sighted off to our left and we gave our
signal of distress. It seemed at first as if she was not coming to our aid
but as we anxiously watched she turned and came toward us. It was a Dutch
vessel known as Prins Willem, the 4th, a Holland vessel. Small but well
built. A tramp steamer. We had come about 524 miles and were nearly opposite
Savannah; but 250 miles out from Savannah. Prins Willem was bound for New
York, would take us in tow back to N. Y. if she had sufficient coal; if not
would take us into some port nearer. At 2 P.M. we were in tow. Until 10
o'clock we went along nicely, when the cable broke. All night we drifted. At
seven a.m. on the 23rd we were taken in tow again and it was said in the time
6
that had elapsed since we were disabled we had made only twelve miles. The
wind was contrary all day until night when it shifted and we were able to put
up two sails and make better progress. As we lie down to sleep we commit
ourselves to our Heavenly Father's care trusting he will protect us from all
harm and bring us safely on our way.
Sabbath morning the water is beautiful in its Sabbath stillness and the
sun is shining brightly . At 5 or 6 o'clock this morning the cable broke and
it was nine or after before we were again in tow. At 12:30 there was service
conducted by Mr. Griffith. Only about a dozen were present . An Episcopal
service with a short exposition of the text "Come unto me all ye that labor
and are heavy laden, etc . . " We spent the greater part of the day on deck .
Rained at 3:30 and some during the evening. At 5 o'clock they said there was
a beautiful rainbow.
March 25th. This morning the water was smoother than at any time since
we started. At seven we were only about 15 miles from land and small island
was seen. Between seven and eight a large vessel, a tramp, passed us going
south. We are making seven miles an hour now. It was interesting to watch
the different colored flags hoisted by our steamer and then by the Dutch
vessel as they communicated with each other as to what was to be done with our
ship. We learned that we were to go into Chesapeake and anchor off Hampton
Roads, from there we would receive orders from New York as to our further
movements.
At Cape Henry as we enter we saw the new steel light house standing out
far on the point while back of it was the old one built of solid masonry and
looking at the distance almost like the shadow of the newer one. The shore
presented much of interest and we eagerly watched it as one only could to whom
the sight of land was so welcome. As we went farther and farther into the bay
other boats accompanied us, many of them sailing vessels . The water was
soiled and of a dirty green. The shore of Virginia had presented long
stretches of yellow sand parallel to the shore and divided from each other by
foliage. Between 4 and 5 P.M. we came to anchor off Old Pt. Comfort upon
which stands the hotel, Hygeia, the famous health resort where 1500 guests can
be accommodated. 1,000 are now stopping there. Also, we see here the walls
of Fortress Monroe. There was a beautiful sunset and then later the stars
came out while at a distance is seen the lighthouse at Cape Henry. Another
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one is nearer and just opposite us is the brilliantly lighted hotel and
farther up the electric lights of the village and here and there on the water
gleamed the lights of many vessels at anchor. At the hotel a band of music
added to the witchery of the night. It was a scene we fain would leave for
sleep. To our right is an island of warlike aspect with its high walls. Here
is the state prison.
We were all so pleased to have opportunity to write to the home friends
and many of us missed much of the view as we entered the bay because we were
busy writing.
March 26th. If this place was enchanting last evening it is much more
so this morning. The water was smooth and the sunlight gleamed upon it like
silver. Early, before we were up the Dutch vessel left us for New York being
now four days overdue there. She had 23 passengers but some of them left her
going on by rail. She had to purchase provision here for the rest of the
journey. A telegram was sent last evening to New York as to our condition and
whereabouts but not until late in the day was there the answer. We are to
await a letter here. At eight P.M. we learn we are to go into drydock,
Newport News, for repairs and all the passengers to go on in this boat. We
have been in a historical spot and we are led to recall the Merrimac and
Monitor off Hampton Roads. We did not go ashore although our skiff has gone
back and forth all day. Tugs have been busy towing in heavily laden boats and
sailing crafts while dotted here and there over the water near us and as far
as the eye can reach are seen the white sails of small sail boats.
March 27th. A beautiful bright morning with calm sea. At nine o'clock
two tugs one on each side were ready to take us to Newport News. This is
connected to Old Pt. Comfort by trolley cars. It is 15 miles distant by land
and about nine by water. Here at Newport News is the largest dry dock in the
world, six hundred feet long and holds 20 million gallons. At flood tide
tonight we go into this dock that the new wheel may be put in. For two hours
after entering we hear them pumping out the water. Our boat is between three
and four hundred feet in length and thirty seven feet wide, but it looks small
in the dock. Newport News is a new town hastily built and looking as if it
had been thrown together. Such a mixture of shanties and four story brick
houses. 10,000 inhabitants and nearly 5000 men are employed in the machine
shops connected with the ship building. It was noon as we came up past the
8
buildings from which hundred and even thousands of men were coming for dinner.
We saw here as odd and strange things as in a foreign country. The negroes
prevailed. We saw single oxcarts; the ox guided by ropes fasted about the
head; donkeys but few horses and those sorry looking specimens. Everyone
seems too lazy to move.
March 28th. A dark morning and a cool breeze but as the day has passed
the sun has shone and it has not been unpleasant. Minot took an early morning
walk to town this morning. Reporters visit us and want to know how the City
of Para lost her wheel. Between 12 and 1 o'clock we took the trolley out to
Old Pt. Comfort. Went into the Hygeia then out to Fortress Monroe. On our
way back there was the soldier's home, the cemetery and Normal school to
visit, but we had not the time or strength. We mailed our letters home
tonight. The lower part of our boat was painted today.
March 29th. How I wish we might be on our way and thus improving this
beautiful still day. About 10:00 A.M. they let the water in. It rushed with
great force through the eight round openings making a pretty sight like a
waterfall. The Holland vessel has asked so much for her services that the
steamship company does not feel it can pay it and our boat was detained until
some settlement could be made. At 4:30 we left the pier at Newport News and
passed again the shore of which we should have such pleasant and delightful
memories. At seven o'clock the pilot left us at Cape Henry and we are again
on the ocean.
Saturday - - the 30th. A rough sea commenced in the night and continued
until the middle of the afternoon today. When we awoke this morning our
window was so washed by the salt spray as to look in the bright sunlight like
ground glass. Hardly a person on board but that was seasick. Breakfast was
not well attended; about six came and not one stayed to finish. I was not
well so did not get up and so claimed I was not sea sick. Sabbath
Beautiful and bright with a quiet sea. At night the water seemed like glass,
the new moon cast its light on the water, the stars shown brightly making a
most entrancing scene. The awning was put up for the first today. We had
services conducted by Mr. Griffith.
Monday, April 1st . This morning we came in sight of Watlings island,
the one first seen by Columbus . We were then 998 miles from New York. As we
sat on deck we saw flying fish. We passed several islands during the day . A
9
beautiful sunset and then darkness, the stars coming out one by one and the
moon shone down from a point almost directly over our heads. In the evening
we read the article in February "A Trip down the West Coast." The atmosphere
is becoming very warm. We are in the Torrid Zone.
April 2nd -- Bright and warm with the same steady breeze. We first
donned summer clothing today, although other passengers had before. Between
three and four this morning we passed Cuba and now between eight and nine, in
the far distance can be seen the mountains of Haiti in the southwestern part
so enveloped in vapor as to seem but a dark cloud on the horizon. The water
is rich dark blue and just agitated enough to make it seem a thing of life.
We are in the Caribbean Sea.
April 4th. We reach Panama this morning and learn that the Pacific
Steamer leaves for the south tonight so make haste to cross the isthmus. Only
one gentleman of our party cross with us. At two o'clock we cross on a
freight train. It was not an agreeable ride for me, were constantly stopping
at stations and saw strange sights of gaily colored dresses or the absence of
them. Bananas were everywhere growing in abundance. Although we hurry we and
our baggage have to be taken out in a larger row boat to a tug and then to the
Santiago, our steamer. The rowboat being pushed out into the water, after our
baggage is deposited in it, then the man picked me up and carried me to it
while another took Minot, then held out his hand saying "I put Missis in the
boat" but he had already been paid for his services. We had ridden at a
breakneck speed through the streets of Panama only having a chance to observe
how very narrow the streets were and being sadly jolted over the cobblestone
pavement. We had a beautiful view of the shore as we were rowed out to the
tug and the rosy sunset light gave it all an appearance such as I have
imagined eastern scenery to possess. On board the tug as soon as they learn
we have had no dinner they bring us lunch of bread and meat and tea which we
eat on the upper deck in the moonlight and remain there until we go on board
the Santiago. Capt. Hood is in command. The boat is much nicer than the
"City of Para." Our Captain is the only officer who sits at the table with
us. There are eight passengers including us and the others all came to Colon
from Southhampton, England by an English steamship company's line. We have a
returning ex-consul having been consul from Peru to France. His wife is a
very sweet faced French lady who speaks not a word of English. We are the
10
only ladies and all our conversation has been "Do you speak English?" No,
madam, Francois. We smile and bow to each other and that is all . The Consul
is a thickset man whose face looks quite German. He speaks Spanish as do all
the others excepting ourselves and the lady. There is a boy of twelve years
of whom we have learned the most. He is like most of boys and is interesting.
He went to England when but six and could then speak only Spanish and although
his mother spoke Spanish in the family he learned English and would not speak
Spanish consequently he cannot speak it now. He is on his way back to his
father in Quito and says he will make his fortune before he returns to his
mother. He says he will be president of Ecuador someday.
Our food on this boat is much more palatable. We do not have as great a
variety and it is not served in as good a manner but everything is clean and
wholesome and the waiters are very attentive. We have delicious fruits but we
have eaten only those that contain an acid like oranges and pineapples. We
have such large tempting looking bananas, but we cannot eat these until it is
cooler. Our raisins are from Chile, the seedless kind. Our meals are served
as follows: coffee or tea with toast (Spanish coffee or deseyuno). Breakfast
at 9:30. Lunch at 1 P.M. Dinner at 6 P.M. In this heat it is better to eat
oftener and not so hearty.
Excerpts from printed material inserted in the diary

"Early this (Sunday, April 7th) morning we came in

view of the western cape of Ecuador. It is high and
rocky. As we passed it the Andes appeared in the
distance. I suppose we saw only the foothills, the
peaks being enveloped in clouds. The journey across
the Isthmus of Panama was one of marvelous interest.
The apparent degradation of the natives exceeds
anything I ever imagined of those of the darkest
Africa, and the face of the country furnishes a
picture of complete desolation. As we came into the
harbor of Colon, on the right were seen the houses of
the Delesseps -- father and son, -- the one now dead,
the other in prison. Just beyond these houses is the
entrance to the canal. Even the harbor of Colon has
the smell of death and we avoided the water as we
would yellow fever. We walked about the place a
little -- it was so hot that we could not stand it to
go far. The best stores are like the meanest hovels
in an American city; but it is the place to make
money. Buy four oranges for 10 cents; give the boy a
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 quarter, and if he does not take advantage of you he
will give you 40 cents in change. So all you have to
do is to bring American money here and spend it.
We left Colon at 2:15 P.M., on a long, double-headed
freight train, the only passenger train of the day
having left before we got there. The caboose was
filled with second-class passengers. The five first-
class passengers were given seats in the baggage car,
from which we could get a very good view of the
country, which gradually became more hilly and did not
seem to be cultivated at all. Only once did we see a
little garden patch. The natives live mostly upon
bananas, groves of which were seen all along the way,
and many carloads on the sidetracks. It is said that
they also raise a little corn, and I saw one girl
grinding something in a huge mortar. All along the
way are large quantities of machinery going to ruin
that had been used in building the canal. The canal
seems to be excavated at least partially, for nearly
the entire distance. It being the dry season,
vegetation is not as luxuriant as it will be later.
There are numerous settlements, though many of the
huts are now empty. Those built by the canal company
have corrugated iron roofs; wood will not stand more
than a year or two in this climate. Those built by
the natives have thatched roofs. The natives are the
most wretched specimens of humanity. They wear little
clothing; some of the children, none. The thought
occurred to both of us that here, if anywhere,
missionaries are needed. It took us until 5:30 P.M.
to get to Panama, 47 1/2 miles. We made about half a
dozen stops. As our time was limited when we got
there, we saw but little of Panama."

From the Far South.

We publish this week a continuation of the extracts
from letter written to relatives here by Mr. and Mrs.
C. M. Griffith. The next communication received from
them, after leaving Panama, is dated April 10th, Peru.
We quote from the letter.
"We came to anchor at this port this morning at
about 9 o'clock. this is our third stopping place
since we left Panama, viz: Quayaquil, Ecuador, and
Payta and Etin, Peru. The shore at this port presents
a strange appearance; it rises from the surface of the
water almost perpendicularly to a height of 30 or 40
feet, then rises abruptly to three or four times the
12
 first height given, into what looks like vast mounds
of earth loosely thrown up, the whole shore presenting
a barren, clayey appearance, not a sign of vegetation
being seen from the boat. A railroad dock is near,
and I suppose the road runs into Etin, which is not
visible to us. It is much quieter than any port we
have been in.
The harbor of Guayaquil is entered through a long
inlet of the sea, or by a river. The city is built
very compactly along the water's edge, but does not
appear to extend very far inland. One of the
principal streets runs parallel and near the shore,
and on this we saw street cars. Vegetation in and
about the city was luxuriant. The hills at the rear
were densely covered with trees, while all along the
inlet on both sides, the level land looked very pretty
in its many shades of green. Here fields were fenced
in, and a great many cattle were seen grazing. The
animals looked much smaller than those of New York.
Cattle raising seemed to be the chief industry. We
did not go ashore, as it was very warm, and we were
advised not to do so, on account of the yellow fever.
At this place a traveling company of 10 or 12
wretched-looking men, women and children, with two
black bears, two cinnamon bears and half-a-dozen
monkeys boarded our vessel.
At Payta, Peru, the shore has a barren appearance.
The place has a good many buildings, all standing
together on a small, level space close to the shore.
Our traveling troupe left us at this port.
At Pacasmayo the shore has the same barren,
clayey look that I mentioned before. This village has
a few buildings, some close to the shore, and others
scattered along the hillside. Around a part of those
near the water are trees and the green foliage has a
cheering look. From here can be seen quite distinctly
mountain peaks in the far distance -- the first that
we dared to call mountains, because we were told that
the mountains were so constantly hidden by clouds that
one seldom catches a glimpse of them. While we were
at this port a boat containing over 100 wretched
looking men came out to the vessel. It was followed
by two other boats, similarly loaded, in one of which
was a band of martial music. The whole contingent was
taken on board. We learned that they were soldiers of
the revolution, who have been fighting for the last
seven or eight years for a man, and now, being
victorious are going to Lima to celebrate and see the
13
 capital. They are a most wretched looking lot, all
wearing a kind of blanket, in the center of which a
hole had been made for their heads. Most of them wear
straw hats, around which is a band of blue, or blue
and white. The men are very ignorant, brought down
from the mountains, half savage as they were, and
pressed into service. "Lassoed like beasts," as one
of the officers expressed it. They are accompanied by
a great many officers and government officials. At
the port of Salaverry 150 more soldiers, with the
general and chief, came on board the vessel, and the
boat fairly swarms with them. Of course we were never
privileged to see Coxey's army, but from what we read
of it, we think that in filth, degradation and
grotesqueness, it could not compare with this crowd."

On the morning of the 18th day of April we entered Iquique Bay and as I
stood on the deck looking out upon the barren shore and the city built on a
narrow shelf like strip of land between the mountains and the sea, I said,
"Well, I always thought I would enjoy a home by the sea, but I believe there
is need of something more to make it pleasant, and I cannot help but feel
thankful that our home is to be where there is vegetation." We knew we had a
school here and wanted to go ashore but we had delayed doing so, until at
about five o'clock a gentleman and lady came to our stateroom door and asked
if we were Mr. and Mrs. Griffith. It was Mr. and Mrs. Winans and he told us
that he was authorized to stop us at Iquique as we were needed and our places
at Concepcion were already supplied. The school building was very nicely
situated close by the sea, and we found here as our associates Mr. and Mrs.
Winans who have the school in charge. Mr. and Mrs. Benedict with a daughter
of eleven years of age, Mr. and Mrs. Winans have a little boy of one year of
age and also Mr. and Mrs. Cuppett are just leaving the school going out into
English parsonage. They have one baby boy. The day we arrive Mr. and Mrs.
Williams with their month old baby take our steamer south to their new home in
Coquimbo where he is to do pastoral work. A few days after our arrival there
came from the Argentine a native Spanish preacher and his family. This Rev.
Mr . Vidaurre to take the Spanish Church which had no pastor as Dr. and Mrs.
Hoover were on furlough in the States.
At 6:45 in our school the rising bell is rung . This bell, however, is
only a large triangle which when it is truck forcibly is sufficient to wake
14
the soundest sleeper. Mr. Griffith is often up before reading or studying,
but I never. The wealthier classes, natives and English, seldom rise until
the middle of the forenoon and take their first meal in bed. At 7:30 the
triangle sounds again calling us to the dining room. Here there are four long
tables at each of which are two teachers with the remainder of the seats
occupied by boys who board with us. When we enter we always remain standing
at our places until after the blessing is asked. Our first meal consists of
bread and butter and coffee. This is known as deseyuno. When we return to
our rooms we have our morning prayers and soon after eight o'clock Mr.
Griffith goes down to the school room; school, however, does not open until
8:45. The opening exercises consist of reading the scriptures, prayer and
singing. We use "Songs and Solos" when we sing in English. The two
departments for girls and boys are kept entirely separate excepting with the
very oldest pupils when the boys and girls recite together. From 9:00 to
11:00 school is in session. Mr. Griffith has the boys main room. I have
classroom work.
At 11:00 the first breakfast bell and our boarders prepare for breakfast
and at 11:45 the second bell. At breakfast and at dinner we are served in
courses. The first course at breakfast is always soup. The second plate
often a salad and then follows the meat and potatoes. At 12:30 school is
called again. Our classes are each given the half hour. At 2:30 we go to the
dining room for lunch consisting of bread and butter with tea. Then school
from 3:00 to 4:00 P.M. The boarders have to sweep their rooms and make their
own beds. After our dinner at 6:00 we have prayers with the boarders in the
library, then follows a study hour and at nine o'clock all lights in the
boarders' rooms are out for the night. Much time is spent on the patio by
boarders during the day.

Letter from the Far South.

We have received the following letter from our former
townsman, Mr. C. M. Griffith, who with his wife is teaching
in a mission school at Iquique, Chile. The communication
will be read with interest by the many Perry friends of the
esteemed young couple .

Casilla 62, Iquique, Chile

July 14, 1895
15
 Editor, Perry Record
Yesterday we were treated to a most delightful excursion .
Mr. Ridings, the assistant superintendent of the railway,
invited all the teachers of the college and two young
Englishmen to go up the mountains in his private car. So we
had breakfast at 9:45 o'clock a . m. instead of 11:15 as
usual, and started from the depot at 10:30. The car was
attached to the first freight train of the morning. From
that hour freights are going up all the forenoon, and they
come back at night. Even the double-faced engines can carry
only from six to 10 cars. We back diagonally up the
mountain for about two miles toward the north then turn and
go in the other direction for about five miles, when we are
up the steepest part of the ascent. As we climb slowly up
the mountain we can see more and more of Iquique; soon the
whole city and the plain on which it stands, is in view.
The 25 sailing vessels now in the bay, the regular streets,
and the row houses, grow smaller and smaller as we ascend.
Now the latter are like goods boxes, now hardly larger than
match boxes. The expanse of water grows constantly wider,
until we can no longer distinguish between sky and sea.
Some one imagines he can see a ship in the distance, but it
proves to be a cloud; possibly a mirage. Then another is
sure he can see, in the same direction, the Andes, with
their snow-capped summits; but his imagination is keener
than his intellect, for he is reminded that a mirage cannot
be seen on the opposite side from the object producing it.
As we wind around along the side of the mountain, we
frequently lose sight of Iquique, and as often regain it.
We have between us and the sea a large sand hill. It is a
respectably sized mountain by itself. They say that this
sand hill is constantly approaching the city and will some
day - - or some century - - bury it. The side of the sand
hill looks like the waves of the ocean, or like a newly
harrowed field.
When we are up the main ascent, about 2,000 feet above sea
level, we turn toward the east; and still we ascend. As we
are going up one very heavy grade, our rate of speed
slackens. The engine makes frantic efforts, but the weight
of intellect in the rear car stops the train. It begins to
descend, now slowly, now faster! The ladies look
frightened, lift up on their seats, and the downward course
of the train is so slackened that when we strike the train
in the rear, no damage is done, and we are pushed up the
grade again. When about 18 miles from Iquique and 3,000
feet above the sea, our car was side-tracked, and the train
moved on up the mountains and across the pampa to the foot
16
 of the Andes, where the saltpetre deposits are located. Now
comes a bountiful lunch to which our appetites, sharpened by
mountain air, do ample justice.
All are eager to see the Andes. We are not far from the
base of a 1,000 foot hill, and it is thought that from the
summit, at least the foothills of the Andes can be seen. So
a party is formed to make the ascent . There nothing is to
be seen except dull gray earth and sand, and in such a clear
atmosphere, distances are very deceptive. When about two-
thirds of the way up, the three English ladies of the party
-- notwithstanding their boasted superiority in walking --
drop out, while the three American ladies reach the summit
without great difficulty. The day unusually bright for
winter (it is cloudy most of the time during July and
August), and we are able to see not only the foothills, but
the blue line of the Andes proper, and far beyond, though
seemingly very near them, gleam the snow capped peaks of
Bolivia.
It is impossible to adequately describe the scene now
before us. The hills for miles around present a great
variety of appearance. The mineral deposits produce
beautiful hues in the landscape. Some hills, owing to
copper deposits, look like fields in which wheat is just
coming up. Other hills show various shades of red and blue.
Again, white spots are seen; these are incrustations of pure
salt. As we walk over them, the ground sounds hollow
beneath. The vegetable growth resembling grass is seen in
one place. On the side of the mountains next to the sea,
cacti grow to the height of 18 feet. Several villages can
be seen on the hillsides. They remind one of the pictures
of the cliff dwellers. They are silver mining towns.
We feared that the descent would be harder than the ascent,
that being the usual experience of mountain climbers. But
we found a ravine filled with sand. It is about as steep as
the sand will lie. Through this the descent is easy. We
take a to-as-you-please gait, going into the sand up to the
ankles at each step or leap, no danger of slipping.
Our car is attached to the first returning train, a train
loaded with saltpetre, and we begin the return journey a
tired but happy crowd. Someone has been thoughtful enough
to bring along several copies of Sankey's "Songs and Solos"
and we make these mountains ring with those glorious Gospel
songs as they probably never rang before. This day is
enjoyed by us all the more as we have so few opportunities
for recreation and so little time for it.
C. M. Griffith

The last of October '95, Dr.Hoover and family returned to Iquique; the
17
 family consisting of two little girls Helen and Rebecca. Mr. Vidaurre
received word that he was to go to a charge in the south and Dr. Hoover was to
resume the pastorate at Iquique. Mr. Vidaurre had not been very friendly
toward our mission workers and had been very busy we learned later in his own
interests in trying to influence members of the M. E. Spanish Church to go
with him and form an independent church. The first Sunday after Dr. Hoover's
return at the morning service he read and expounded the tenth chapter of St.
John and with many unkind words about Dr. Hoover and other workers, he called
upon the people to come with him, a Chileno, and so when he said "vamos" they
all rose and followed him from the church. He was greatly excited as he
reached this point; for to him it meant so much. After the house was quiet
Dr. Hoover, pale as death, went up into the pulpit and said, "Let us pray."
We knelt and after the prayer we arose with lighter hearts. "God was still
with us and who could harm us." Mr. Vidaurre had rented a large house and
hither he led the people and there on the Sabbath day he took their
photographs.
When Dr. Hoover began to look up the membership he found there were
members here in Iquique and in the Pampas still left us. He had brought with
him from the States a large tent and this he pitched on the most degraded
street in the whole city that many might be led to hear the Gospel that would
never find their way to the church. The church was rapidly built up in this
way. It seemed very hard for those who had labored with this people to see
them so easily and willingly led away and yet we knew they did not understand
what they were doing. Many supposed that they were still members of the M. E.
church and later we find some returning to the church again. Mr. Vidaurre was
a man of ability -- a good speaker but smoked and thought it was a good thing
to take a little wine for the stomach's sake. Such a native pastor shows so
plainly the need to good thorough training before he is admitted into the
church and conference.
When we arrived in Iquique Mr. and Mrs. Cuppett who had been in the
school went out into the English parsonage and May the 10th Mr. and Mrs.
Harrington with their little boy of four years came from the States. Mr.
Harrington taking the boy's primary and Mrs. Harrington the girl's main room.
Mr. and Mrs. Harrington were to have come out in company with us but owing to
some mistake in sending a letter to them from New York, they did not receive
18
the word in time to come with us.
In December '95 Mr. and Mrs. Winans go to the States for a year's
vacation, their five years of service here having been completed. In September
we celebrated the fifth wedding anniversaries of Mr and Mrs. Winans and Mr.
and Mrs. Harrington, the one the 12th and the other the 30th of the month.
Mr. and Mrs. Benedict had the school in charge while Mr. and Mrs. Winans were
at home. March 3rd '96 there was born to Mr. and Mrs. Harrington, a little
daughter. They called her Marion Francis, her father's name. April 1st in
Michigan a little son, Hubert was born to Mr. and Mrs. Winans. Mr. and Mrs.
Benedict adopted a little native girl, Fannie, during the year. In November
'95 Mr. Griffith's mother died of heart trouble and in April the 21st of the
year '96 his sister Lena, Mrs. Burdel Johnson, of the same trouble. These
deaths made us sad indeed for we never could meet them again in this world as
we had hoped we might when we bid them goodbye and in September '95 Jennie
Wygant, my cousin, died in Indiana of Typhoid fever.
In the month of _ _ _ 1896 Mr. I. H. LaFetra and wife and children
called on their way to the U.S. In January '97 Mr. and Mrs. Winans ret~rn and
there accompanies them Mr. LaFetra and teachers Miss Russell for Santiago and
Miss Scudder, an art teacher, also for Santiago. Miss Burch and Miss Richard
for Concepcion girls school and Miss Wines for Iquique while Mr. Roberts went
on south to attend conference at Santiago and later was returned to Iquique.
They were all with us at Iquique the 25th of January for lunch and in the
evening of that day, as it was Monday, we missionaries at Iquique gathered in
the parlor after dinner for the regular teacher's prayer meeting of the week
and Dr. Hoover led. After our meeting there was brought in and placed in the
middle of the room, a large trunk which Mr. and Mrs. Winans had brought with
them filled with presents to the workers here from the home friends. Thus we
had our second Xmas, just a month after Christmas. At Christmastime we had a
little tree for the children of the mission. The tree was a large pigweed
that had grown in a box on our porch until it had reached a height of seven
feet while across from the tip of one branch to another on the other side it
measured eight feet. Someone found an ear of popcorn and this was popped and
strung for our tree. This decoration together with candles and toys made our
tree a very pretty sight and delighted the little people.
My health being poor and as I had no appetite, it was thought by all
19
that I must go south to conference when the gentlemen here should go. I went
in company with my husband, Mr . Winans, Mr. Harrington, and Mr. Cuppett. We
reached Santiago, Saturday evening, February 1897, and went directly to the
college where we were to be entertained and learned that conference would not
begin for nearly a week later. We spent week, however, very pleasantly
looking about the city.
Conference opened the morning of February '97, Bishop Vinant presiding.
We had with us members from the east side who had crossed the mountains to
come to conference. Dr . Drees and wife and Mr. Talon were among the number.
There were present members of the conference and a goodly number of teachers.
The Bishop was accompanied on his trip to South America by a young man by the
name of Searles, a recent graduate of Wesleyan University, Middletown. This
young man was taking this trip for his health. The Bishop gave us one lecture
entitled "School out of School," and also gave us a talk about Chataugua and
its plan of study one evening at the parlors of the college. There were
present several of the former pupils and others who were reading the Chataugua
course or were about to begin it. Another evening there was a reception given
to the Bishop. During the Bishop's sojourn with us he had his sixty-fifth
birthday, February 23rd, and as a conference they presented him with a book of
views of Chile.
We met again while in Santiago a Mr. and Mrs. Mayor who had called on us
at Iquique when on their way out. They are Americana and he is in this
country looking after the settlement of some property. Mr. Cuppett, with Mr.
Griffith and myself, took dinner with them one evening. Mr. and Mrs. T. W.
LaFetra were also present. The latter had charge of the school while Mr. and
Mrs . I . H. LaFetra were in the States and entertained the conference very
admirably. Mr. Griffith was ill during our stay here as he took cold on our
way down. The cold settled on his lungs and left him with a cough. He was
still weak when we went to Concepcion where we had been appointed to the same
school, Colegio Americano, to which we were first sent. We arrived at
Concepcion in the evening of the first day of March and found there to be our
associate teachers for the coming year. They were Mr. and Mrs. B. 0.
Campbell, who were in charge of the school, Miss Nettie Wilbor, who had come
here from the school in Santiago this past year (her health necessitating the
change), Mrs. Harriett Christopher and Miss Kate Russell. The 18th of March
20
Mr. and Mrs. Benedict with their family arrived, having been appointed to this
school and also to the pastorate of the English church. The school is located
on the principal street of the city and our rooms looked out upon this street,
very pleasant but noisy. The school is large with many young men as students.
During the first of the year Mr. Olave is the charge teacher, later Mr. Dawson
takes his place. Mr. and Mrs. Weiss and Mr. Dawson came to Concepcion to
spend the winter before going south to commence their evangelistic work. They
come out under the Christian Alliance and believe when the Gospel has been
preached to everyone in South America it will be evangelized and their duty
done. While with us Mr. Dawson sells Bibles. Mr. and Mrs. Weiss live near
the college. Seven blocks from our school is the girls' school, called
Concepcion College. This also is a large school with Mr. and Mrs. G. F. Arms
in charge and with Miss Richard, Miss Burch, Miss Fisher and Miss Vimont as
helpers, and Miss Danskin, Miss Bedwell and Miss Crosby as assistants from the
country. Mr. Arms is presiding elder and also the pastor of the Spanish
church. We have but the one church for both congregations, and this is
connected with the boys' school. Sunday morning at 9:30 the English Sunday
School is held, at one o'clock Spanish Sunday School. In each of these Mr.
Griffith has a class. At three o'clock Junior League with Miss Adda Burch,
one of the teachers at the girls' school, as Superintendent. At six p.m. the
Spanish people have their preaching service and at 7:30 Epworth League
followed by English service. During the week there are prayer services held
Tuesday and Friday evenings for the Spanish people and the regular Thursday
evening meeting which is largely supported by the teachers in the two schools.
We have two or three English families in the church -- Downie, Bennison,
Jackson, the latter belongs to the Spanish Presbyterian Church but likes to
attend an English service so comes to us some.
June 19th. I took a severe cold and it brought upon me a severe illness
in which I was in convulsions and no one thought I could live. Our little
baby boy was born dead on the fifth day of July. He was named Luis Minot.
Everyone said it was a miracle that I lived. And our workers believe it was
an answer to prayer. Of my illness I myself knew but little at the time as I
was unconscious; but of my weak condition as I get up I was very conscious.
Of one thing I am quite certain that not in the U.S. could I have had better
care from physician and nurse than I received. The boys in the school were
21
very thoughtful about being quiet and did many errands when I was ill and gave
up their usual 4th of July celebration on account of my illness.
Dec. 22nd and 23rd occurred the graduating exercises in the girl's and
boy's schools. In the girl's school the exercises were held on the patio and
all did well. One of the graduates chose the temperance question as her
subject altho she was told by her girl friends and her Spanish teacher that
she would not be popular. She bravely adhered to her choice and gave very
clearly and plainly the facts regarding intemperance in Chile and as it was
all in Spanish every person present could understand. At each school there
were four graduates and at the close of the exercises at our school Mr.
Campbell presented each graduate with a copy of the Holy Scriptures. The
exercises were followed by a reception given by the members of the class to
their friends. At the girl's school the reception occurred a different
evening from that of the boy's exercises. Our Christmas was held at the
girl's school where all the teachers of the two schools were present. The
English S.S. had their picnic Christmas day and in the evening we had our
tree at the girl's school. On Christmas Eve the Spanish S.S. had a tree at
the chapel. House cleaning came after school closed; Miss Scudder came from
Santiago to go to Puchoco with us; but one thing after another hindered so we
did not start for Puchoco until the 17th of January '98 and we remained there
until the early part of February. All of the Colegio Americano teachers were
there except Mr. and Mrs. Benedict. Over twenty of us were there at one time
and we took turns in planning the meals. It was a delightful place in which
to rest. The morning was spent on the seashore in reading and bathing. Much
time was spent in sleep while directly after breakfast we gathered on the
verandah for prayers. During the time we were at Puchoco, Charley Burrows,
the eleven-year-old son of the English people who so kindly gave us the use of
the house where we stopped and thus made possible this delightful outing, was
very ill. His whole system was poisoned by eating the fruit of the boldo tree
and there was also a stoppage of the bowels so that he suffered great pain and
inflammation. Thus every night someone sat up with him and nearly every day
someone relieved Mrs. Burrows during the day time. I wish I could describe
Puchoco so one would have a good idea of its beauties. It is a beautiful
place where Mr. Burrow's family live and their family is very carefully
trained. It is a pleasure to be with them and many of us during the year have
22
had the privilege of spending a few days with them for a little rest from our
labors. We were at Concepcion only about a week before Conference commenced.
It opened in February '98 with Bishop Warren presiding. His wife and daughter
Miss Iliff were with him. He was a very spiritual man and his talks to us
were very helpful. He gave one lecture "The Force of the Sunbeam."
There was need for workers at Iquique and we were willing to return so
were appointed to Iquique for another year. We started for Iquique the first
week in March. There were present at Conference from Iquique Dr. and Mrs.
Hoover and Mr. Harrington, the latter returned before and the former not until
after we reached Iquique. From Valparaiso to Coquimbo the Bishop was with us
as he was on his way to dedicate a Spanish church at Serena. He would return
to Santiago, cross the Andes accompanied by his wife and daughter who joined
him at Santiago and held conference on the east side. From, there they go to
Germany where a married daughter resides and from thence home. Mr. and Mrs.
Cuppett formerly in charge of the English church leave Iquique for the States
the week before we reach there. Mr. and Mrs. Harrington go out of the school
and take their places.
On May 9, '98 the Rev. Floyd Allen from Illinois arrived and has charge
of the Boy's Primary Department. He is a very sincere, devoted Christian, and
a very pleasant associate. He has fallen in love with Miss Elma Wines, our
kindergarten teacher. Here on the coast as we are, we have calls from those
who are passing, and it is a very pleasant change for us to see new faces and
often see someone direct from the States. The 4th of April '98 Mrs.
Backhouse, who with her husband had been in Peru for two years, called upon
us. Her husband had died, and she was returning to friends in England. The
11th of the month a Baptist missionary called. Mr. and Mrs. Dicky, who have
been at work in the Argentine, called on their way to the States to attend the
General Conference of the South. He was a delegate. On the 19th we had a
musical treat -- Hoeck, a celebrated musician, a pupil of Paderewski, was on
board a sailing vessel in the bay. He was traveling for his health. He came
to the college and some of the captains came with other friends. School was
closed at 8 o'clock and we repaired to the parlor where he played for us for
two hours. The 21st, Cousin Mary Lamb passed away at her home in the States.
From, about the middle of April until the first of June we had the influenza
with us. The first to have it was Mr. Griffith, then Moises Merubia, Mrs.
23
Winans and myself. Many pupils also had it so that our school was much
affected by this epidemic. Mr. Wallace, a Christian man, chief engineer on a
boat in port from May 23 or 24 to June 2nd gave magic lantern exhibitions the
26th and 27th, also the 30th and 31st. These were a great treat and very
instructive. The 30th Mr. Currier called on his way to Santiago where he has
been working in the printing office. He had been in the field before. There
is much talk of war between Chile and the Argentine, but we hope it may not
be. On the 17th the National Guard left Iquique on the Esmeralda.
The winter has been a very severe one. The storms in the south have
been much more severe than usual and the 23rd to 25th of July occurred a
severe earthquake in Concepcion. Mrs. Downie writes me that her husband
helped her to the door and there they stood awed and silent until it passed
over. "The feeling while it lasted is beyond my description and never will be
forgotten."
The 27th of April there was born to Mr. and Mrs. Benedict at Concepcion
a baby boy named George B., Jr. Everyone rejoices with them as it is the
first living child they have been given.
I will insert here extracts from a letter written me by Mrs. James
Downie at Concepcion August 22nd '98 in which she tells of the earthquakes and
writes thus:

"I was so pleased to hear that you met my dear old

friends, the Frasers."

I met them while Captain Fraser and wife were in Iquique Bay. Mrs. Fraser
and three children with her husband, in fact their home was on the sea, and
it was very interesting to hear her tell of the countries they had visited
and the experiences they had had. Mrs. Downie says:

"I am sending a photo of my good old husband and self

which may help you to remember Concepcion and the many
friends you had there. I have put on the back our
names and the date it was taken. In two months more
my husband will have been 40 years with the Valparaiso
and Santiago Railway as he came contracted for them
October 1858, and he was 4 years here when I came out
to be married to him in 1862 so we have been 36 years
married when this photo was taken. We are both
24
 natives of Scotland. When we came there were no
steamships as now. We came in sailing vessels, 3 long
months on our journey, and since then we have seen
many dark days and hard times; but poor Chile was
never in such a sad plight as she is at the present
time. There was a Revolution when my husband landed.
In 1866, we had to fly into the country as Valparaiso
was bombarded by the Spaniards; our little home was
broken up then. In 1878 and 79, there was war with
Peru and in 1891, the dreadful Revolution and now
threatened war with Argentine and the financial
affairs of the country in such a state, well may we
say poor, poor Chile."

On the 4th of July we invited all the Americans and our English church
friends to the college to spend the evening. Several Englishmen were present;
but all seemed to enjoy it. A program was rendered and ice cream and cake
served.
On the 12th of July about 60 guests gathered in the parlors to witness
the marriage of Mr. George Back and Miss Eliza Jenkin. Their little home was
all ready for them, and it seems very nice that another Christian home is
started in this dark land.
On the 23rd of August our teaching force was well reinforced by the
arrival of Miss Jeannette Carpenter of Magnetic Springs, Ohio. She made the
journey alone and came when she was greatly needed. She takes charge of the
girl's main room and they all like her. She will prove a pleasant associate
teacher. She was educated at Ohio Wesleyan, class of '95. She was acquainted
with Mr. Allen. The 31st of August Mr. Whichelow and Miss Murray take their
first lessons in Algebra and Latin preparatory to fitting themselves to enter
one of the universities of the U.S. thus preparing them better for their
life's work together, viz. that of missionaries. How our hearts have been
gladdened to know of this their purpose. She was converted when Miss Russell
and Miss Hampshire came to Iquique to carry on the work at the Railway mission
after Mrs. Ridings left Iquique. They came out from England the latter part
of the year'95 but Miss Hampshire had such poor health they were obliged to
return the early part of the year '96. While we were in the South, (the year
'97), Dr. Guiness of England, while visiting the mission work in Peru, came to
Iquique at the urgent request of Mrs. Ridings and held a series of meetings
which resulted in a number of conversions and a great blessing to those
25
already saved. Mr. Whichelow was converted at this time. The 6th of
September Captain Grant of the "Four Winds" and his little daughter called at
the college. He is from Nova Scotia and his wife also is with him. Bethel
service is to be held on board his ship.
The 30th of August there was given a reception for Miss Carpenter at Dr.
Hoover's home. During the Puchoco vacation this year we were treated to an
evening with the phonograph. All the church friends were invited to come to
the college and a friend of Mr. John's treated us to the phonograph. This was
Monday, the 19th, and the next day there was a picnic given by the Epworth
League at Cavancha. The remainder of the week was spent by us quietly.
Although the 18th fell on Sunday, it was unusually quiet as that was not made
the great day owing it is said to the fact the Captains in Iquique Bay refused
to take part in anything on that day.
The 17th of September we received a letter stating that money had been
sent for my passage home as Mr. Griffith had written how poorly I was then.
We commenced to plan for me to go on by myself and Mr. Griffith come at the
end of the year when he could be spared from the school work. A letter
received from Dr. Smith, the Secretary at New York, states our case will come
before the Board at the September meeting, and he has no doubt but that the
permission to return will be granted.
The 27th of September Mrs. Harrington, Mrs. Winans and myself spend a
pleasant day on board the "Four Winds." When I returned from this trip I
found Mr. Griffith had learned that the freight steamer on which he had hoped
I might go home was to sail on Friday of that week, and he asked if I could be
ready then; but I do not wish to be thus hurried away and the next morning
there was a meeting of the Faculty to consider if they could arrange the
school work so that Mr. Griffith could accompany me. Mrs. Harrington was
present as she had offered to teach half a day that Mr. Griffith might be
released. No decision was reached that morning. For a few hours in the P. M.
and at lunch we had Mr. and Mrs. F. W. LaFetra with us as they were on their
way back to their work at Santiago having spent a year at their home in Maine.
When they returned to the States they went by the way of Italy and Rome. They
met one of our school friends of Folts Mission Institute, Miss Brown, who was
teaching in a mission school there, or rather had charge of the housekeeping
department in such a school. It was my pleasure to hear from her in this
26
unexpected way.
On Thursday Mr. Winans told us that the work had been so arranged that
Mr. Griffith could accompany me. Friday was the last day he taught and then
commenced a hurried packing and leave taking as we would take the "Imperial"
which would sail from Iquique the 5th of October. On Saturday, after
breakfast at Mrs. Harrington's with Miss Carpenter, Mr. Griffith, Mr. Allen
and Miss Wines, we all went to buy vicuna robes. We made our selections, all
of which we are to take home with us for the others. We returned home to take
lunch with Mrs. Grant and daughter.
On Sunday morning we attended the Spanish service and after the sermon
Mr. Griffith spoke a few words to the S.S. in farewell, then followed the
program given by the missionary society of the S.S. A collection is taken the
first Sabbath in each month for missions, but a program is only presented once
in three months. This Sabbath it was Peru. Mrs. Hoover has the programs in
charge and the different parts of South America have been considered this
year. The people have taken a great interest in learning of the work in other
parts and in knowing that there were many faithful Christians in South
America. Letters were read from Elsie Wood living at Lima and working under
the W.F.M.S. and from Mr. Penzotti who was one of the earliest in Peru but now
in Central America. Elsie Wood writes thus:

"The first day of January 1891 there was only one

evangelical missionary in Peru, Mr. Penzotti, and he
was imprisoned. Mr. Penzotti, as representative of
the Bible Society and a minister of the M.E. Church,
had been selling Bibles and also holding evangelical
services for which the governor, to satisfy the
dominant church, had put him in prison thinking thus
to put an end to all evangelical work in this
republic. After eight months he was liberated, and
now is living in Guatemala, Central America, with his
family, selling hundreds of books every year. In
August 1891. Dr. Wood with his family arrived in
Callao."
Today, 1898, there is in Callao a Peruvian
congregation with its own pastor, Manuel Noriega, a
Peruvian. Within this brotherhood are found many of
those who remained faithful during all the persecution
that occurred when Mr. Penzotti was imprisoned. One
of the brothers was imprisoned at the same time as Mr.
Penzotti and was converted while conversing with Mr.
27
 Penzotti in the prison.
When Bishop Warren was here in January '98, he
ordained the first Peruvian members of this same
congregation, Adolfo Vasquez and Jose Illescas. This
congregation has a temperance society that meets every
month, and also in Callao there is an English
congregation, the Rev . Mr . Spangler, pastor, and it
also has a temperance society that meets twice each
month. The same church serves for the two
congregations, the hours for service being so arranged
that there is no conflict. On each side of the church
building there is a house occupied by a school
(Peruvian), the one directed by Senor Illescas for
boys of nine years and upward. Every morning the boys
have a special service of half an hour when they
(learn) read the chapter marked for the daily lesson
in connection with the Sunday School, repeat the
golden text for the next Sunday, sing hymns, have a
short explanation of that which they have heard and
one or more prayers. The family of Senor Illecas live
in the school building. In the house the other side
there is a school for girls and also for boys less
than nine years of age. Here are two teachers, a
young lady born in Peru of English parents and
graduated from the mission school -- the other teacher
is a Peruvian lady who studied three years in the same
school where she is teaching. In the same manner the
girls study the Bible and learn the Gospel hymns.
Beside the Peruvian schools we have two English
schools, one for primary instruction under the
direction of Professor Hewey and Miss Porter, both
from North America. There are more than two hundred
pupils in these schools. Your servant teaches in
three different schools of the mission in Callao and
also in Lima .
In the city of Peru there is a Spanish
congregation with its own pastor, Senor Vasquez. This
brother also has a temperance society with meeting
every month. In the Sunday School there are classes
in Spanish and English. Mrs. Dr. Wood is the
Superintendent. Dr. Wood to the City of Lima with his
family in March '98, He preaches one Sunday in Lima
and the next in Callao. In January of this year he
was taken prisoner one night by a half drunken officer
who first entered the room, made all the people go
out, he himself making much noise and afterward
marched Dr. Wood to the police station. He released
him the same night, telling him he had to come
28
 tomorrow and when he went again in the morning it
seemed that his valor had calmed a little as the
effect of the liquor had left him, and after doing all
that was possible to make the Doctor promise that he
would have no more meetings he released him until he,
the officer, could consider further. Since then there
has been no other disturbance. Several members of
this mission are selling Bibles in Peru or in Ecuador.
One of them has entered Quito. It is a blessed
thought that the same God is caring for us and guiding
us here in Peru, in Chile, in Ecuador and in every
part. His church is marching, marching and all the
powers of evil shall not be able to put it down.
With many wishes for the prosperity of the work
in Iquique, I remain
Your servant,
Elsie Wood
Lima, Sept. 19., 1898"

I had not been able to do much for those poor women, but they had been
sorry for me in my sufferings, and as they bid me goodbye, put their arms
about me and said that perhaps they never would meet me again this life but
they would meet me up above. I want to be faithful and meet them there.
Sunday evening at the English service it was announced that the Epworth
League would give a farewell reception to us at the parsonage on Monday
evening. There we met the members of the League each one bringing with him a
card with his name and some verse of scripture or lovely thought written
thereon. Tuesday I was ill with pain in my head and Wednesday morning had not
gotten up when Mrs. Hoover came in and helped me dress to go below to the
schoolroom where the children had assembled for a little farewell to their
teachers about to leave them. We had the usual morning exercises in which Mr.
Griffith led, conducting them in Spanish. All the teachers and mission
workers at Iquique together with the servants were present. Then followed a
program consisting of music and recitations in English and Spanish in which
the children say some very kind words to us and then the boys present us with
a nice vicuna rug and the girls a little dish of glass and silver filled with
flowers. As the children pass out they each shake hands with us and then we
go in to breakfast. As the children pass out they each shake hands with us
and then we go in to breakfast. After breakfast the time is spent in doing
some last things in the way of packing until toward six o'clock when we take a

29
car for the wharf and go out to our steamer, the "Peru." All the teachers go
with us and some of the English friends are there also and a number of the
older boys all of whom were then boarding with us, hired boats to take them
out to see us off. But the time came to part with them all and as they rowed
away from us in the darkness, the children sang one of the sacred songs they
were accustomed to sing at the opening of school, and the teachers sang, "God
be with you 'til we meet again."
We were on board the steamer, the ___with Captain_________ in command
and after days we entered the port of Callao, Peru and as our boat was to be
there for a couple of days we went ashore and knowing we should find Dr.
Wood's family at Lima, we took dinner with Professor Hewey and wife at Callao,
went that evening down to Lima. When Dr. Wood saw Mr. Griffith, he said, "Did
the Lord send you?" It seems that they were greatly in need of help, and he
tried to persuade Mr. Griffith to take me to the isthmus and return to aid
them there; but Minot felt he was first to see me safely home as he thought I
was not able to travel alone so after a short visit with them we came on and
had on board with us a young Englishman and his family, a cable operator for
five years and now bound for home. The name was Snyder and they proved to be
very pleasant companions.
At the isthmus we had to spend five days, and it was very warm and
uncomfortable. Here, at a Chinese store we bought silks to take home for
presents. Also some handkerchiefs.
On the Atlantic we were on board the "Advance" (Captain Phillips), and
the sea was not very rough. We left Iquique the 5th October, 1898, and
reached New York the 31st inst. In the City from Monday until Friday of that
week, going to the hospital and taking treatments for my ear. Visited at
Gratia's, Union Springs, and also at Burdell's at Batavia, then to Perry,
November 28th in the evening. Soon went to keeping house. December 28th had
a pound social given by the Epworth League and church people at the church
parlors. March 17th W.F.M.S. ladies meet at parsonage and sew for me. In
February Mr. Griffith and I had charge of the missionary exercises in the
Sunday school and told of Moises Merubia and Roberto Olave and young men in
Chile of whom we have great hopes.
March 20th - It is four years today since we sailed from New York to
Chile. George Chase, Cousin Jona's oldest child, called upon us. He travels
30
for an Ohio firm dealing in stoves.
We went into housekeeping in one of Father Griffith's houses and were
there until April when we moved up into Mr. Frank Eastland's house on Lake
Street, and here our little daughter, Dency Roxana, was born. Sabbath,
October 1st, 1899, she was baptized by Rev. Benjamin Copeland, assisted by the
P.E., the Rev. Mr. Latimer. Her birthday was May 16th, 1899. This was the
last Sunday spent at Perry as Minot went to Conference, and Dency and I went
to Cowlesville to visit Mrs. Oscar Barnum. After his return from Conference
at Bath and we knew we were to be at Collins Center, Dency and I went to
Batavia and Minot went to Perry to pack our goods for the new home. While at
Batavia, Aunt Kate Smith and I took Dency down the street and had her picture
taken. She was five months and four days old at that time. When her father
returned for us he brought a pretty new cloak given by Mrs. George Clark and
made by Mrs. White and Mrs. Clemens. At Collins Center we spent the first
week at Mr. Brigham's while Minot papered the parsonage and got it fitted up
to go into.

Baby's journal - Dency Roxana Griffith was born the 16th of May,
1899, weighed 7 pounds and fifteen ounces at birth, a well, strong
baby, but had to have a bottle. Gave her cow's milk from Mr.
Chamberlain's cow. Wednesday, July 26th sick and Saturday Dr.
Harding changed the food -- commenced to use Horlick's Malted
milk. July 27th -- looked at her fingers. When 4 weeks old -- 9
lbs. 11 oz., 2 months 11-3/4 lbs. Spent her first 4th of July at
her Aunt Libbie's and the children gave her a red, white and blue
ball. August 16th 11-1/4 lbs, had five cents given her and Sept.
7th Uncle James gave her some money. Sept. 15th short clothes
commenced to make the baby coo. Sept. 16 nearly 12 pounds --
first boat ride. October 1st baptized at Perry in little robe
sent by Aunt Flo, a very good child. October 2nd left Perry for
Cowlesville. October 5th first taste of juice of apple pie at
Cousin Lambert's. Came to Aunt Kate's at Batavia the 16th and the
20th had picture taken at 5 months and 4 days. The same day Papa
returned to Perry with the little new clock. When 6 months old
the first buttoned shoes and little stockings from Mrs. Cooley.
November 24th on the floor on a quilt for the first time.
December 16th 7 months went calling with Papa and Mama at Collins
Center. December 11th received from Cousin Minnie Barnum some
little clothes. Nov. 16th weighed 12-1/4 lbs. and Dec. 16th 14-
1/4 lbs. December 25th -- First Christmas -- some little gold
pins from Cousin Arden, a little jacket from Aunt Gratia,
nightgown and mittens from Cousin Beth and Aunt Libbie, a little
31
 dress and tatting from Mrs. Benedict, high chair from people at
Collins Center, and a little bed from Papa and Mama. December
28th new little buttoned shoes.
January 1st, 1900 almost 17 pounds. The 15th of January
Papa said, "Goodbye" and Dency, plainly imitating the sound
"Goodbye." January 9th --Wrote two letters for Dency to Cousin
Beth and Cousin Arden thanking them for the Christmas presents.
Received answer from Beth. January 30th said Mama very plainly
before this da, da, na, na. February 16th weighed 18 lbs. having
gained only about one pound the past month -- eating at the table
some and perhaps the food has not digested so well and therefore
not nourished her so well. At 10 months weighed only 18 lbs.,
have commenced to give her the new milk at Mr. Naber's. She says
very plainly "Papa and Mama." March 23rd received from India a
beautiful silver spoon marked with her name from Dency Rook
Herrick after whom she was named. Eleven months, April 16th --
18-3/4 lbs -- 1 year -- high chair and little bed came to Dency at
this time instead of at Christmas. Also had cookies, fried
chicken, forget-me-nots, and rice pudding for little people made
by Mama for Dency to give to the little neighbors, weighed 21 lbs.
At 13 months ate with her namesake spoon feeding herself and
commenced to hitch on the floor. Soon after we came to Collins
Center we changed from Horlick's Malted Milk to Millins Food.
This seemed to agree well with her. A book that I intended to get
for Dency when old enough to understand is "For Girls" by Mrs. E.
R. Shepherd, a special physiology being a supplement to the study
of General Physiology -- publishers Fowler & Wells, 27 East 21st
St., New York. Another Mrs. Harrington recommended to me when she
and her husband visited us in Collins Center on their way back to
Chile, was "Bird's Christmas Carol." Mr. and Mrs. Harrington are
to take back with them the Christmas trunk which we used when we
came home. Mrs. Cleveland of Collins Center has given me some
maple sugar to put in, and we have also sent nuts and popcorn and
some threads.

Mr. Griffith had had some correspondence with Dr. Wood of Lima as to
going again to South America to engage in work there and finally he decided to
go to Ecuador to open schools there. These schools to be Normal Schools.
Dency was too young and I not yet strong enough for the journey so the latter
part of July we came to Perry, and he sailed from New York the 31st of July
with Dr. Wood and Merritt L. Harris from Vermont, and also Mr. Robins who had
once been in the work in Chile. From Chile, there were coming to Ecuador, Mr.
and Mrs. Williams of Coquimbo and Miss Fisher and Miss Kinsman.
The 31st of August Dency was taken ill and the 2nd day of September her

32
little pure soul returned to the Lord who gave it. Everyone was very kind to
me, and I felt it was all right. Our Heavenly Father knew what was best, but
I miss her sorely.

Year 1907

Dear friends: We sailed from N.Y. Sat. Aug. 17th and did not reach La Paz
until Tuesday Oct. 1st. So you will see we were long on the way; but
travelling through S.A. countries one has to wait much, accommodating oneself
to their movements. The Caracas, the steamer on which we started, is one we
have known in going to and from San Juan. When we reached San Juan the
evening of the 22nd, we learned that Mrs. Allen who has occupied our home
while we were this summer in the States had kindly seen to the packing of the
books as Mr. G. had requested and he decided that instead of staying these two
weeks we could by his working hard remain only while the Caracas was in the
port and go on, on the same steamer to the south. This we did; but were
pleased to once again meet with the church friends in Thursday evening prayer
service. It made us feel sad to have to part with this little company to whom
after five years we feel much attached. In the five years we had seen many
changes as there were only two persons in the church who were there when we
went to San Juan. The Caracas was at Curacao during the Sabbath, then on to
the port La Guayra where steamer was to remain ten days. As it was very warm
at the port we went up into the mountains to Caracas in company with some
Presbyterian young ladies who are stationed in P.R. and were taking this trip
down to visit missions at Caracas. We became so well acquainted that they
telephoned to Mr. & Mrs. Bond who are stationed in Caracas in the mission
there that we were with them. So they engaged places for us at a hotel there
and were at the station to meet us and welcome us. We were one Sabbath at
Caracas and at church at the Spanish services of which Mr. Bond has charge.
They were twenty-one years missionaries in Syria and have spent six years in
Columbia so have a long record of mission work. They did much to make our
trip pleasant. In the cemetery, one of the places they visited, Mr. G. says
there were few crosses and more scripture used than any Catholic cemetery he
had ever seen. Sept. 3rd We learned that before the "Ca" would arrive to take
33
care of us we must have a physician's certificate stating we have no disease
about us.
Sept. 4th All went to the station to see us off. The ride down the Mt. in
the morning was fine and when we searched the port our steamer was not in and
finally did not get on board until nearly dark. We sleep with the first class
passengers but eat with the 2nd class.
Sept. 7th Pleasant and seems much warmer. We reach first port of Columbia
at 2 P.M. Early Sabbath morning the 8th we enter the Magdalena river and go
to the port Cartegena. The passage up the river and the beautiful scenery was
quite in keeping with the quiet of the Sabbath. A quiet restful day and we
went down the river just before dark so we had the privilege of seeing the
beautiful shores again.
Sept. 9th It took so long to pass the inspection of quarantine officers who
came on board as there was a case of smallpox among the steerage passengers
that we spend another night on board. Early in the morning the steamer took
us to dock and we went ashore into quarantine station two days. We crossed
the isthmus by rail the 12th and were at a hotel in Panama as our steamer did
not sail until Sat. the 14th owing to delay in loading caused by rain. We
failed to receive any mail here as we had hoped but will be sent out to us at
Bolivia. Sabbath the 15th was a rainy day and remain on board. We were at
Puna at about 12 o'clock. Here the quarantine officers boarded the steamer &
inspected and did not reach port of Guayaquil until 5 o'clock. As the 18th is
national Independence day of Chile & most of men are Chilean who attend to the
baggage not much was done at once. No passengers go ashore here unless this
is their stopping place or it would bring about a quarantine at Callao later.
It was here that Mr. G. saw in the waiting room on steamer a young Guayaquilan
who attended school to him at Poughkeepsie. Early in the morning the 20th we
started and when we moved we were down the river and out at sea again but
shall be in sight of land the rest of the journey.
Sabbath the 22nd we enter the port Eten and the work of loading & unloading
and other noises on board take away from the quiet of the Sabbath day.
Sept. 24th We are at Salaverry the 4th port since leaving Guayaquil.
Sept. 25th We find it cloudy and cool as we enter the port of Callao. Here
all who are not vaccinated recently by officials are vaccinated by officials
who inspect a number of steamers here. The one going north takes our letters.
34
No word from Mr. H. reaches Mr. G. here but he sees Dr. Wood.
Sept 26 This A.M. I go ashore and a Miss McKinney and take lunch with her at
Mr. & Mrs. Mccombs, the pastor of the Eng. people at Callao.
Here we transfer to another steamer, the Victoria. We leave the port in the
night of the 20th and soon reach our next port. The average temperature at
Callao when there was 61 We stop at another port and the morning of the
29th as we are rising we enter the port of Mollindo. It looked foggy with
early morning. A strong tide here made it difficult to disembark but we went
ashore between nine and ten A.M. After careful inspection of our luggage we
started up the Mt. by train to Arequipa at 11:30. The ride up the Mt. was
enjoyable winding as we did around it going up. We remained all night at
Arequipa and at 7:00 the morning of the 10th started for Puna where we were
above the clouds. At 7:30 we were aboard the steamer Inca which carried us
across Lake Titicaca. We had been on Trains all day only hour for breakfast
at abt. 2300 ft. and felt very tired as we boarded the boat. We rested well
however and Oct. 1st started at 9 P.M. across lake, ran on a sand bar and was
so delayed that did not reach until after 4 the other side Guaqui. but the
train had waited for us. By the time we arrived to start on train for La Paz,
it is nearly five o'clock. We stop at 3 or 4 stations along the way. At one
of which, a R.R. headquarters, we were delayed twenty minutes or more. The
R.R. is above La Paz about 1000 ft. so the train enters the station above
while La Paz lies in the valley below. A trolley line takes us down to the
station below and as we enter this Moises Merubia is the first to enter the
car and welcome us. The telegram that we are coming does not reach them until
after we do but they had seen our names in the paper among the passenger list.
Found Mr. J.M. Harrington poorly and his brother and nephew about to return
to the States. So Mr. G. is needed although we reach home just before their
vacation as Mr. G. will just have classes during vacation and take up his
regular work in the school when the term begins in January. He also has been
appointed in Mr. H's place to go to Oruro the 21st to be present at the
examinations there.

35