ASKING A BLESSING UPON FOOD.

Western Star, Issue 143, 3 June 1876, Page 7

ASKING A BLESSING UPON FOOD.

I was on one occasion dining on board an English ship of. war with Queen Pomare, other members of the royal family, and several chiefs. A large table was prepared on the quarter-deck. All being seated, the plates were soon abundantly supplied, but not one of the natives attempted to eat. The ca.ptain was greatly surprised at this, and said to me: ‘Mr Pritchard, I fear we have not provided such food as the natives like; I don’t see one of them begin to eat.’ I replied: ‘ You could not have provided anything that the natives would like better. Tho reason why they do not commence eating is simply this, they are accustomed always to ask a blessing.’ Before I could say anything more, tho captain, evidently feeling a little confused, saidi ‘ I beg your pardon, Mr Pritchard ; please to say grace.’ I immediately, ‘ said grace,’ when the natives soon gave proof that they liked tho food which had been provided. One of the officers from tho end of the table looked' at the captain very significantly, and said: ‘We have got it to-day !’ and then dressing himself lo me, said: ‘Mr Pritchard, you see what a graceless sot we are.’ All tho gentleman seemed to feel tho rebuke thus unintentionally given.— ‘ The Missionary’s Reward,’ by George Pritchard,