As morning wore on our swift progress brought us to the outer islands, bare bleak rocks, at whose base the sea was breaking terrifically.  The first was Ukalek (the hare), about equal distance from Nain, Zoar, and Hopedale.  We turned southward, our good ship speeding along before a favourable breeze and rolling heavily.  Many icebergs of all shapes and sizes were visible around our now widened horizon.  Tremendous waves were beating against their gleaming white sides, and sending the spray high towards their towering pinnacles, in one case clean over a huge berg perhaps 150 feet high.

Presently the Eskimoes at their northern fishing-places caught sight of us.  Yonder are two boats sailing from that barren island, and we can now see three or four Eskimoes in each.  As we overtake them they fire their guns and shout.  See, on that island to the right is a regular little encampment, two or three tents, and men, women, and children running about excitedly, waving their arms and hallooing.  Soon they launch their boats and row after us.  The Ship Hill has been visible for some time.  Now we see the red roof of the mission-house, and the little cupola of the church.  Thank God! the flag is flying at the mast-head, i.e., at the top of the station flagstaff; no death has occurred in the mission circle.  Yonder Eskimoes on the rocks, congregated about their little cannon, fire their salutes and shout their welcome.  Now we are sailing into the harbour.  With mingled feelings I scan the mission-house.  Yes, there are some of the missionaries at the door.  They run down to the pier, launch their boat and are coming off to us, rowed by two men and two women.  I recognize old Boaz from his photograph; and that is Verona, good faithful soul.  But there are only Mrs. Dam, and the Brethren Kaestner, Asboe, and Hansen.  Where are the rest?  Mr. Bourquin has not arrived from Nain; no news from the North; Mr. Dam is ailing, and must return to Europe with us.  Mrs. Asboe and Mrs. Kaestner await us, so we are soon off in the boat to get another warm welcome at the door of the mission-house, about half-past five.

[Illustration:  Hopedale. (See next page.)]

I am conducted to the guest-chamber, and ere long we meet at the tea table, around which the whole mission family is assembled with their visitors.  First our gratitude is expressed for the many mercies to each and all, included in the safe arrival of the “Harmony,” and then ensues a lively interchange of news and mutual interests.

HOPEDALE.