Beyrout thus became the head-quarters of missionary operations in Syria; and as it was the only spot where missionary homes were established, it was frequently visited by the different missionary brethren who had come to the country. Mr. King spent much of his time at a monastery in Mount Lebanon, engaged in the study of Arabic; but he often joined the families on the coast. Pliny Fisk, who was engaged in exploring the country with a view to future operations, was also several times welcomed to the homes and the hearts of those who had known him as a brother beloved in their native land. And when his short work was done, just two years after Messrs.
Goodell and Bird landed, this devoted servant of Christ, whose name in connection with that of Levi Parsons, the first missionaries to Palestine, will ever be kept in sweet remembrance, came here to die lieturning from one of his tours, he reached the house of Mr. Goodell in his usual health, but was soon attacked with a fever which he had contracted while watching with an English gentleman. For several days there were no alarming symptoms; but, although every thing that love and tender care could do for him was done, and with apparent success, his disease suddenly took an unfavorable turn, and, rapidly sinking under its power, early on the morning of the Lord’s day, Oct. 23, 1825, he entered into rest. Of this event Mr. Goodell wrote at the time: —
Thankfulness in the course of his illness
“ It seems a great mercy that he died with us, and not abroad among strangers. This he often mentioned with thankfulness in the course of his illness. It appeared a comfort to him to have us about him to converse with him, pray for him, and strengthen his faith in God. Some of the Arabs were deeply affected, as they stood around his dying bed; they were amazed at his peace of mind, and could not conceive it possible that any one could be so willing to die.
They wept. We explained to them the cause of his tranquillity and joy, related to them much of his religious views and experience, and told them of Christ and heaven. Indeed, we sometimes felt that Christ and heaven were present. It seemed but a step ‘ to Him that sitteth upon the throne and to the Lamb,’ where God himself wipes away all tears.”
Tour Balkans 