Letter: Edward Bailey to Rev. Horatio Bardwell, Andover, Mass Feb 28, 1836 Reverend and Dear Sir __ I sit down to write you with some conflicting of many emotions in my breast. I have just been talking with my mother and her mind has not changed since you was [sic] here. She still adheres to the idea that my health is insufficient for the great undertaking which is before me. I mention this first because it is the only opposition I have met with in considering this subject. My father and sister appear to concur entirely in the plan. As for myself I have given the subject as I trust a candid and prayerful consideration. My main enquiry has been, as I hope, Where can I do the most good? And I have come to the conclusion that it is my duty to spend my days, if it be the will of God, at the Sandwich Islands. Perhaps I am wrong but I have decided according to the light I have, and I should not dare to do otherwise. Still I am unworthy of the high station of guiding souls to Christ. My own mind is none too light — how shall I enlighten others? But my decision is to go. And now I am like one, who is just learning a trade of which he had never before heard. I want information all about it. How shall I prepare myself? How spend any time this summer? Will the board furnish for the field, or shall I furnish myself? What is necessary to furnish me? Are tools, and books, pens, ink and paper plenty at the Sandwich islands? Are pen knives, lead-pencils &c manufactured there? I do not understand whether the ground now divided into twenty different sections embraces the whole of the islands or only that which has as yet been unoccupied? Will there probably be a physician within reach of all the stations? How is a missionary to be supported at the islands? Will the teachers have a permanent residence, and if so will it be in the vicinity of that of a minister? Where is Mr. Ruggles residence at present and what is his given name. If it is not a troublesome request, would you be so good as to give a list of the names and place of residence of those who are going as teachers on this expedition? It was owing to my carelessness that I did not ask for this while you was here. I suppose giving my answer thus does not imply I am accepted by the Board. On what am I to be recieved [sic]? Pardon me for asking so many questions and intruding so much upon your time. But the outfit of a missionary [..] seems to me a mystery which however appears now about to be solved to me by the reality. I had resolved to try once more to prepare for college, but my prospects of succeeding were few and feeble. Now they appear rather more encouraging. Long life I do not expect anywhere. But I have often pictured to myself a spot where I had preferred, before all other places, to dwell and that was at the Sandwich or some of the South Sea Islands. Perhaps I have been influenced by selfish motives. But I hope not. Inclination and duty seem to run parallel to each other. Please to write me as soon as convenient. Give my regards to Horatio and the family. Tell H. he must become a christian and a missionary. Your humble servant, E. Bailey The original is in the Misson Houses Museum Library, Honolulu.