74 THE LIFE OF E. J. PECK 



The next consideration was to repair the boat. 

 Knowing that there was resin to be had from the 

 small shrubs which grew here, the missionary sent 

 the Indians to gather some ; they know how to 

 gather and prepare it, as they use much for their 

 canoes, and it does not make a bad substitute for 

 pitch. Having got some nails by breaking up one 

 of the boxes, and having a little spare canvas, 

 he purposed mending the boat with these ma 

 terials. 



It was a trial of faith, and many a man of less 

 persevering energy and trust in God might have 

 given way under it. But knowing that the life of 

 every one of the party might depend upon that 

 boat, and that by obstacles to be overcome God 

 intends the character of his servants to be devel 

 oped, Mr. Peck, nothing daunted, set himself to 

 accomplish what may seem to us a hopeless task. 

 The first day was spent in preparing the materials 

 necessary, and it closed as before with prayer that 

 faith might be deepened and patience given, and in 

 confidence that God, who was the keeper of Israel, 

 would supply all their needs out of His riches in 

 Christ Jesus. 



On the next day, October n, the actual repairs 

 were taken in hand. A fire was lighted and the 

 resin melted. The boat was turned bottom up 

 wards, and the damaged parts scraped. A coat of 

 resin was put on, and canvas was placed on top of 



