Chapter nine: The last months at St Peter’s : a journey to Bashee 1 July 1858 - 1 March 1860

Chapter Nine covers the final period of R.J. Mullins’ time at St. Peter's Mission, characterised by severe weather, continuing construction, mission meetings, a crucial journey, and his preparations to return home. The journal is resumed after a significant gap in June 1859. This period began with an unexpected, heavy snowfall on July 1st, creating a "English winter scene" reminiscent of England and causing firewood shortages. · Routine and Setbacks: Mullins maintained school and services, dealing with a fire at Hutt’s station and the continued nuisance of a wild cat. He focused on reading and working in his garden, which the local women (including Yoliswa) tried to redefine to give local man Bongolo more land. · Mission Gatherings: Mullins attended a large baptism and confirmation service at St. Marks, finding the ceremony "very impressive." He also participated in a mission meeting that roughly divided the district into two parishes, giving him the "lion's share" of the new territory. · Bishop's Visit: In August, the Bishop (Robert Gray) arrived, accompanied by Waters and Hutt. The Bishop preached and held a confirmation service for Mullins' boys, John and Rudolph. Mullins interpreted for the Bishop, which he found "very hard work." The Bishop discussed Mullins' potential return home the following year. · Wedding: Mullins acted as "Papa" (father of the bride) at the wedding of Turpin and Miss Gray on August 14th, a surprisingly pleasant affair held amidst the mission’s busy schedule. Mullins undertook a journey to Queenstown and later to the Bolotwa area with Hutt, continuing to plan for the future. · Trip to Queenstown: Mullins rode to Queenstown, staying with the Browns and Greens to procure goods and dispatch a wagon. He received a £5 note for Mr Green's chapel. · Scandal and Conflict: Mullins had a public row with Yoliswa after she allegedly "brutally entreat[ed] a woman" who had taken away her husband. Mullins acted "very cool" to her when she visited, leading to Yoliswa being "in a tremendous passion" when Mullins' colleague, Smith, later challenged her. Mullins resumed his journal nearly a year later, focusing on construction and his preparation for departure. · Construction and Injuries: The mission continued to be a construction site; Mullins spent his time making and fixing doors, stands, and repairing the chapel's roof. His knee injury flared up, making work difficult. · Departure Preparation: Mullins noted he had received a cheque for his money, signifying his imminent departure. He continued to manage the mission school, but his focus was shifting to handing over responsibilities. · New Teachers: Mullins was preparing his hut for the expected arrival of Woodrooffe, a colleague. He also mentioned the Bishop's recruitment of Miss Ende from Germany. · Final Entry Context: The journal ends abruptly, covering an intense period of mission work, conflict, and personal development before Mullins left St. Peter's for good.