Chapter eight: Life at St Peter's 1 January 1858 - 29 June 1858

Chapter Eight covers the first half of 1858, detailing R.J. Mullins' life and mission work at St. Peter's Mission, Gwtyu, with a focus on construction, significant baptisms, local conflicts, and preparations for further expansion. Mullins continued developing St. Peter's, receiving essential assistance and supplies from friends: · Practical Help: Mullins received provisions (beef, bread, biscuits, sardines, pickles, lemon syrup) from Reynolds and Gordon. Reynolds spent time at the mission building forms (stools), cutting out a table, and thatching the porch, significantly improving the physical station. · School Development: Mullins was delighted when his water supply was finally secured. He received news that the Governor had provided £100 for his school (and £100 for Hutt's) to support education, in addition to larger grants for St. Mark's. He spent time planting potatoes and other crops in the garden, despite damage from a severe hailstorm. · Domestic Stress: Mullins struggled with managing his young students, noting Mamati was an "awful bother" and a frequent disciplinary problem, leading to Mullins losing his temper, which he regretted doing "before these heathens." The early months featured two major mission gatherings, symbolising the growth of the Christian community: · Epiphany Baptism (January 6th): Mullins, Hutt, and Waters held a large baptism service at St. Mark's for catechumens. 10 men, 7 women, and 3 boys were baptized in a long service, with an estimated 400 to 500 people present, including Chiefs Yoliswa and Dahralla. The event was followed by lunch, and Mullins felt very encouraged by the behaviour of the baptised individuals. · St. Matthias' Day (February 24th): Another significant gathering at St. Mark's included more baptisms (one boy was named Ridi after Mullins) and 7 couples married. Mullins slept in the same room as Gordon, who was suddenly taken ill, leading Mullins to believe he was "going raving mad." The post-Cattle-Killing period remained politically and socially tense: · Patrols and Chiefs: Mullins noted a patrol of police and burghers led by Currie was being organised to confront remaining resistant groups, including those led by Krili. He also received an unexpected visit from Mr Warner (a local official) and his armed police, who were capturing a "rain-maker." · Expansion Plans: Mr Waters returned from meeting the Bishop and Governor with news that the Governor wanted two new mission stations established "over the Bashee or further in front." Mr Waters proposed that Mullins and Gordon start these new missions, an opportunity Mullins was eager to pursue. · Chiefly Relationships: Mullins noted the continued presence of Yoliswa, who frequently came down to the station but often "begged for a shawl." He found Faku increasingly agreeable, noting Faku wanted a good coat so he could come to church dressed appropriately. Vezi expressed interest in sending his son, Bina, to the school.