Rev A Brandram - No 103
St. John, New Brunswick 22nd May 1841
My Dear Friend,
I write you a few lines that chiefly to say that I have safely arrived in this place. I came through the United States. When I left Montreal it was my intention to go by land from Burlington or Albany direct to Boston. But the weather and the roads proving very unfavourable, I was induced to go by way of New York to have the advantage of steam boat and rail road conveyances. It so happened that the very day I was in New York was the Anniversary of the American Bible Society. I was gratified in this in one way, as it afforded me an opportunity of witnessing the national efforts of the Americans to circulate the Holy Scriptures. But in another respect I had some an easiness, as being there unofficially, and yet obliged to take part in their public business. I trust you will excuse any irregularity you may see in this travelling accident. I say nothing of the meeting itself, as I suppose you will be duly and officially notified of it.
I arrived in this city on the afternoon of Monday last the 17th instant, and in ample time for the operations of the season, as the weather hitherto has been very bad, and unfit for Bible visitations. Yesterday however and today it is better, and we hope for a continuance of what we now have. You will perceive that I have been exactly six months absent from this quarter. I had four months leave, but the month before and after are non-travelling months in this country.
Two days after my arrival here we had a meeting of the Committee of the New Brunswick Bible Society. There was a very full attendance. The chief object of it was to make arrangements as to my visitations in this Province, and more especially in this neighbourhood. We have had a subcommittee meeting since for the same purpose. The routes and places have been pointed out to me, and on Monday next the 24th I commence my country visitations by going to St. Andrew's. I shall then take other places in that quarter. I write and leave this letter now for the next packet, as I would be too late for it when I return to this city.
Your letter of the 15th March reached me on the 24th April. Since which date I have not received any communication from Earl Street. I suppose there may be letters for me at Halifax, to which place I have written that they may be sent here. I wait their arrival before I answer your West India inquiry general and particular. I think you need not be in haste to appoint for the West Indies.
I remain, My Dear Friend,
Very Truly Yours,
James Thomson.