On Appleyard and his translation of the Testaments into the native language

Incomplete.

Regretting that Directors of London Missionary Society had not approved the expenditure connected with school buildings at Kuruman

Giving news of the gold fields, of traders, missionaries and other mutual acquaintances

On domestic affairs and the return to Africa

These diaries are written in small notebooks which have no covers, with loose pages inserted. They consist of 9 parts (part 7 appears to be missing).

Relates to MacKenzie's admission to the Independent Church, his inquiries about mission work and his application to the London Missionary Society; much about his spiritual progress

Much about his private life while awaiting the decision of the London Missionary Society; he is asked to forward a testimonial from a leading member of his congregation which he does but fears it is unsatisfactory

Describes the financial difficulties he encounters in trying to publish his treatise "On making, selling or drinking intoxicating liquids"; gives account of an emotional crisis and continues in shorthand

Much about his religious progress, including his determination to curb his physical appetite; he is studying Logic and Mathematics; records his feelings when told that another period of probation is necessary

This consists of 145 pages, in a small notebook, with cover, and describes his journey to South Africa, in company with his fellow-missionary R. Price. The voyage is described in detail and at the back of the notebook are notes on his fellow passengers. During the voyage MacKenzie learns Dutch and reads David Livingstone's "Travels". They are welcomed at Cape Town by the Moffat family and plans are made for the journey to Kuruman, where he is to reside whilst he is learning Sechuana and absorbing the experience of Robert Moffat. This diary was intended to be circulated amongst his family circle and to take the place of "Vica voce chit chat at the family fireside".