BX 92:5 .W44 A4 1853 
 Weed, Edward, 1807-1851. 
 Faith and works, or. The 
 life of Edward Weed 
 
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FAITH AND M'ORKS 
 
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 OR, 
 
 THE LIFE 
 
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 EDWARD WEED, 
 
 MIN'STEK OF THE GOSPEL. 
 
 '' Show mo thy faith without thy works, 
 And I will shew thee my faith by my works." 
 
 James 2 ; 18. 
 
 NEW YORK : 
 
 C. W, BENEDICT, 12 SPRUCE STREET. 
 1853. 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 It was a pious thought to preserve some memorials 
 of the character of such a man as Edward Weed. The 
 remembrance of him is very precious to many 'who 
 knew him, and these will highly prize the record of his 
 hfe and labors, and the transcript of his thoughts and 
 feelings, which are here collected. As a monument of 
 Almighty grace, as a faithful laborer in the vineyard of 
 the Lord, as a zealous advocate of temperance and 
 justice, as a patient sufferer of affliction and a grateful 
 recipient of kindness showed for Christ's sake, as a man 
 full of good works and of victorious fiiith, the church at 
 large cannot but be profited by reading his biography, 
 and learning his worth by the greatness of his loss. 
 
 The natural quahties with which he was endowed, 
 and the habits of thought and action which he acquired 
 under parental training in his youth, helped to fit him 
 for the chosen vessel which he afterwards became in 
 the service of Christ. His tall and graceful person, his 
 clear and musical voice, his frank and benevolent coun- 
 tenance, his speaking eye, his kindness of manner, 
 truthfulness and honesty, vigor of constitution, indus- 
 trious and fi'Ugal habits, and early acquired power of 
 self-denial, were precious advantages to him in the 
 
VI INTKODUCTION. 
 
 coui-se of duty which ho entered upon at his couvei-sion, 
 and in tlie coui-se of trials and toils through which his 
 Master led him to the close of life. Mothere who ex- 
 pect their sons to be true soldiei-s of the cross, must 
 train them for it betimes, or the weakness of the earthly 
 fi'amework will give way under the labors of the im- 
 pelling power within. 
 
 The record, though too brief, of the laboi-s and 
 struggles through which he persevered to obtain an 
 education for the work of the ministry, will be an en- 
 couragement to many a young man hereafter, when 
 the hearts of multitudes. of our precious youth shall 
 once more begin to kindle with irrepressible longings 
 for the privilege of preaching to othere the love of 
 Christ which they have experienced in their own souls. 
 "With ten dollai-s in money, and his extra clothing tied 
 up in his pocket-handkerchief, he started on foot, with 
 a light and thoughtful heart," from his father's house, 
 to commence his studies at the Oneida Institute. A 
 choice and remarkable band of youth were there col- 
 lected, and they were taught, too, both in human learn- 
 ing, and in the wisdom which cometh from above, as is 
 shown by the influence of their labore there, and by 
 the charactei-s they exhibited in after life. "During 
 Mr. Weed's four yeai-s of study at the Oneida Institute, 
 by exercising close self-denial, and continuing in j)ei-se- 
 A'ering effort to sustain himself, he succeeded without 
 incurring debt." 
 
 As a member of the fii-st class that entered at Lane 
 Seminary, after its organization in 1832, under the 
 presidency of Dr. Beecher, he was again associated with 
 
INTRODUCTION. VI L 
 
 a company of very extraordinary young men. In their 
 labors in conducting Sabhath-schools and Bible-classes, 
 prayer-meetings and charitable societies, in visiting tlie 
 sick and relieving the wretched, in promoting measures 
 for education, in intense diligence in study, and in still 
 more intense cultivation of the spirit of devotion and 
 self-sacrifice, probably no equal number of theological 
 students ever surpassed them. Their talents, their 
 energy, their zeal in carrying out whatever they under- 
 took, had awakened large hopes in regard to their 
 future usefulness. The unfortunate decree of the 
 trustees, in the absence of the president, prohibiting the 
 students from further discussion of the subject of 
 slavery, was justly regarded by them as an interference 
 with the freedom of thought which is vital to the 
 Gospel, and they heroically resolved that they could 
 not submit to be thus in bonds. The honored faculty 
 of the institution, whose proper prerogative was inter- 
 fered with, decided otherwise ; but the history of the 
 seminary to this day is an instructive comment on the 
 capital mistake which was committed in the attempt to 
 sacrifice and throw away such a cluster of rare and 
 costly jewels. 
 
 In his subsequent life, as a lecturer, a pastor, an 
 evaugehst, a reformer, and a sufferer, we have a fine 
 sample of the true character and worth of a class of 
 men in this countiy, who are not generally appreciated 
 at theit real value. The publication of this volume is 
 to be commended, as aflbrding the means in some 
 degree of correcting this poj)ular error. The extent of 
 his lalx)rs, his diligence in study, his fidelity in main- 
 
VI 11 INTRODUCTION. 
 
 tainiiiij Christian ovd'^r and discipline, the success of his 
 effbrLs for the conversion of sinners, and the sohd growtli 
 of the churches which he gathered under pecuHar difli- 
 cullie^ entitle him to an honorable rank among tlio 
 clergy of the country. Not Paul himself could show a 
 fuller proof of the cleanness of his hands and the disin- 
 tei-ested benevolence of his heart, than was otlered by 
 this man, who, after laboring fourteen years in the 
 ministry, among poor congregations, and on a scanty 
 salary, and giving away at least eleven hundred dollars 
 for benevolent objects (in addition to the constant 
 drain of small sums for charity), closed his service by 
 selling off his household goods to pay his current bills, 
 and left his work as poor as when he began it. Add 
 to this that his health was now prostrated, and his 
 hel})lessness burdened with the responsibility of a wife 
 and children dependent on him for support, and then 
 read his testimony : — " I have the consciousness of 
 having done my duty, and of having acted unselfisldy. 
 and though afflicted, I am not depressed in spirits ; I 
 was never more cheerful and happy." * * * "I 
 think I have done as God would have rne do, and now 
 1 believe he will make me an example of what he 
 would do for his peojjle and his ministeis if they 
 would put their trust in him." 
 
 Such a life was ap]iropriately finished out, and such 
 a character was worthily crowned by the trial of faith, 
 the workings of experience, the patience of hope, and 
 the victory over fear and death, which are shown in 
 the records of those weary months of sickness and sor- 
 row which closed his p;lgriiiiagt\ In all the lives of 
 
TNTROTIUCTION. IX 
 
 tlie paints on o:\vih, T do not know of n more strikinj:^ 
 case of a good man in straits, living so absolutely by- 
 faith, and that faith so constantly justified and lionored 
 by extraordinary displays of providential care, in sup- 
 plyinu^ all his needs, making his bed in sickness, rais- 
 ing him up friends among strangers, and opening the 
 hearts of those who never saw him to contribute for liis 
 comfort. Those pious people at Chester, in England, 
 what blessings they had in their souls, for the un- 
 wearied kiuduess wliich they showed to this servant of 
 Christ. 
 
 The privilege of ministering to him during the first 
 day of his return to his own home, and of watching 
 the l.-ust night of his abode on earth, is worth being 
 remembered by one wlio is unworthy. May the bless- 
 ing of the Lord accompany this feeble testimonial to 
 one of his honored ministers. J. L. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 « 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Pago 
 Early Life — Conversion 1 
 
 CHAPTER 11. 
 Scraps from Diary 6 
 
 CHAPTER HI. 
 Call to Preach — Student Life 14 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 Theological Studies— (Diary continued) 22 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Leaves Lane — Licenced to Preach — Anti-Slavery Labors 
 — Marriage 32 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 Letters continued — Closes his A. S Labors 47 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 Call to Mount Vernon— Pastoral Labors 66 
 
Xll CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER VIIL 
 
 rage 
 Call to Paterson — Takes a Tour East — Letters 77 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 Leaves Mount Vernon and goes to Paterson — Letters. ... 88 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Unites the Labors of an Evangelist with that of a Pastor 102 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 Begging Tour— Death of Mrs. Weed— Call to Brooklyn . 119 
 
 CHAPTER Xn. 
 
 Removes to Brooklyn — Second Marriage — Finishes his 
 Labors in Brooklyn 132 
 
 CHAPTER Xni 
 
 Returns to Paterson —Letters — Temperance 143 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 Extracts from Letters and Diary 159 
 
 CRAFTER XV. 
 
 Extract fronn Letters up to the time of his protracted Ill- 
 ness 179 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 Sickness — Resigns his Charge — Leaves Paterson — Letters 
 during his Illness — Hopes and Fears 195 
 
CONTENTS. Xiii 
 
 CEAPTER XVIL 
 
 Leaves Mexicoville— Goes to New York— Health Im-^"^* 
 proves— Sails for Liverpool 218 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 Letters from England— Journal 233 
 
 CEAPTER XIX. 
 
 Return to America— Last Illness— Death-Extracts from 
 Letters of Friends 2«i 
 
 Remarks on the Life of the Rev. Edward Weed, 
 by the Rev. Samuel D. Cochran, Paterson, N. J., June 
 ^3.1851 '.,,^,285 
 
 The Substance op an Address delivered at the 
 Funeral of Rev. E. Weed, by the Rev. W. H. Horn- 
 blower, Pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of 
 Paterson, January 23, 1851 294 
 
CEAPTER I. 
 
 EAKLT LIFE. — CONVERSION. 
 
 Edwakd "Weed, the subject of this memoir, 
 was the son of Philo and Abigail "Weed, and 
 was born in North Stamford, Conn., July 
 lYth, A. D. 1807. 
 
 He was the third of a family of ten chil- 
 dren, seven sons and three daughters. All 
 but three of the ten survived him ; one died 
 in infancy, the others all became heads of 
 families. 
 
 His ancestry were of Puritan origin, and 
 justly classed with those who receive the encour- 
 agement of Jehovah, written with the law of 
 Sinai, " showing mercy unto thousands of 
 those who love me and keep my command- 
 ments." From his earliest life his mother 
 cherished an earnest desire, accompanied with 
 a comforting assurance, that he would one day 
 stand acceptably upon the walls of Zion to 
 proclaim the gospel. And there is reason to 
 believe that this desire and assurance were 
 
2 EDWARD AVEED. 
 
 accompanied on the part of his parents by a 
 cordial and hearty consecration of their child 
 to God, and the training of him in the nurture 
 and admonition of the Lord. # 
 
 Both parents lived to hear him preach. 
 The writer has often witnessed the fixed atten- 
 tion and glistening eyes of his father, as he 
 received from his son's lips the words of life, 
 and seeined, in no common degree, thus to feed 
 upon heavenly manna. 
 
 He enjoyed New England advantages for 
 education until nine or ten years of age. 
 
 In A. D. 1S17 his father removed with his 
 family to Denmark, Lewis County, N. Y., 
 then a new country, with comparatively few 
 religious or educational privileges. When he 
 arrived at a suitable age he commenced 
 learning a trade. This, though not congenial 
 to his literary taste, was apparently the only 
 course for him to take. 
 
 "When he was in his eighteenth year a 
 precious revival occurred in the town where 
 his parents resided. His brother Henry, a 
 few years older than himself, was hopefully 
 converted, and in the zeal of his first love, as 
 he went from house to house, and sliop to 
 shop, to exhort his young companions, he was 
 also deeply earnest, in behalf of his younger 
 brother, and rested not, in pleading and 
 
FAITH AND AVORKS. 6 
 
 prayer, until he was with him rejoicing in 
 hope of the glory of God. Edward soon after 
 made a public profession of his faith in Christ, 
 and%bout the same time began anxiously to 
 inquire respecting his duty to prepare to 
 preach the gospel. Many obstacles stood in 
 the way. How could he, a youth without 
 means, his education up to this date limited, 
 with any hope of success, attempt to gain a 
 thorough preparation to preach ? To meet the 
 expense of the usual college and theological 
 studies seemed impossible. 
 
 Simple, child-like faith, from his first con- 
 secration to God, was the moving spring of all 
 his future course. lie believed, if God called 
 him to preach, he would make the way plain, 
 and provide the means. lie left his trade, and 
 began to use such facilities for the improve- 
 ment of his mind, as he could obtain. By per- 
 severance in private study a year or two, he 
 prepared himself to teach school. As he press- 
 ed forward from one way mark to another, sta- 
 tioned by the providence of God in his path, 
 he appeared to many only as an ambiti<ius 
 youtthful enthusiast pursuing a phantom. 
 Such persons were not acquainted with the zeal 
 that glowed in that young heart to do good. 
 
 They understood not the sanctified power of 
 that young spirit, who, when the path of duty 
 
4 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 was once made known, never, for a moment, 
 Buflered the word " fail" toiiitiuence him, as he 
 pressed forward to its fulfilment. 
 
 They appreciated not the source of tliJll con- 
 fidence in God which filled his heart, and led 
 him to exclaim, in the language of the poet: 
 
 " Unwavering faith the promise sees, 
 And looks to God alone, 
 Laughs at impossibilities, 
 And cries it shall be done !" 
 
 He used often, in after life, to say to the 
 young, who were tempted to give up efiurt in 
 a good cause, because there were many ob- 
 stacles in the way — "' If you have light enough 
 to make clear to you one step in the path of 
 duty, take that, and trust for the next. Don't 
 refuse to go forward because you cannot see a 
 long way and a clear way before you." This 
 was an early lesson with him, and one that in- 
 fluenced all his Christian life. 
 
 In the Autumn of 1826, when he was nine- 
 teen years of age, he became for a few months 
 a voluntary coljiorteur, intending to locate 
 himself in some school for the winter, as 
 a teacher, if a favorable opportunity should 
 present. 
 
 Of his state of mind, purposes, and success, 
 
FAira AND WOEKS. 
 
 at this period, we are informed l)y a joiinial or 
 diary, which he commenced, and which was 
 continued at intervals during his subsequent 
 life. 
 
CHAPTEll n. 
 
 SCRAPS FROM DIARY. 
 
 The book in whicli Mr. Weed's journal is 
 found was prefaced with tjie following prayer 
 of consecration : 
 
 " Grant, O, gracious God, that this book 
 may be kept in thy fear. Deliver me from 
 all hypocrisy in writing. Help me to ex- 
 amine my heart always before I write. May 
 I may be enabled to record all thy dealings 
 with me, with an eye single to thy glory; and 
 may it prove a means of spurring me on to 
 duty. • I ask it for Christ's sake." 
 
 " Oct. 2Sth, 1826.— Left Utica, and the same 
 evening stopped at Floyd to spend the night. 
 I had poor success in selling books to-day ; 
 but felt entirely to put my trust in God, 
 both as to temporal and spiritual things. O, 
 that I may be an instrument in the hands of 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 7 
 
 God, of promoting tlie cause of true religion 
 in every place where I may go. May I deep- 
 ly appreciate the interests of the Redeemer's 
 cause. 
 
 " Nov. ^d. — Stayed over night in Trenton. 
 Went in the evening to a prayer meeting at 
 the Rev. Mr. Whitmore's. The room was 
 crowded to overflowing, and a general solem- 
 nity prevailed. I had good success in dis- 
 posing of books and papers in Trenton. 
 
 '■^ Nov. 3d. — Came to Russia and called upon 
 the Rev. Mr. "Wilcox. Mrs. W.'s health is very 
 poor, and his congregation is so scattered as 
 to make his field of labor a laborious one. 
 The people are much pleased with him, and 1 
 trust he may be a great blessing to them. 
 Went up to the school-house, where was con- 
 vened a church-meeting. I was introduced 
 to Deacon F., who invited me home with him 
 to spend the Sabbath. I found his family 
 agreeable and pleasant, and I could but re- 
 joice in the goodness of God to me, -an un- 
 worthy creature. 
 
 " oth. — SaJjhath. — The sun arose in clearness 
 and splendor, and seemed in his rejoicing to 
 say, ' This day is hallowed of the Lord.' I 
 went to hear Mr. Wilcox preach. His text in 
 the A. M. was, ' Revive thy work, O Lord, in 
 the midst of these years.' In the P. M. he 
 
8 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 preached from, ' As I was busy here and 
 there, he was goue.' It was an excellent dis- 
 course, and a great solemnity prevailed in the 
 congregation ; the spirit of the Lord was 
 evidently there. 
 
 " Qth. — This morning I walked several miles 
 before breakfast. I was introduced to a young 
 man who has recently become a Christian. 
 He seemed to truly rejoice in God. Called 
 on another man who invited me into his house, 
 at the same time saying his business was such 
 that he could not spend any time with me. 
 lie was not a Christian, but I found his wife 
 and daughter were both Christians, and had an 
 agreeable and interesting interview with 
 them. 
 
 " I went in the evening, with Deacon M., to 
 a house not fur distant, to hold a ])rayt?l* meet- 
 ing. There was none attended the meeting 
 but the Deacon and myself. AVe had a very 
 interesting season with the family of the house. 
 Something was said about my taking the 
 school in that neighborhood to teach through 
 the winter, and I proposed teaching for eleven 
 and a half dollars a month, commencing with 
 the first of December. 
 
 " 1th. — Came directly to Boonville. Nothing 
 of importance occurred during the day. Put 
 
FAITH AJ^ WOKKS. y 
 
 up at iiiglit witli a Mr. S. Tliis evening wrote 
 a letter to a friend. 
 
 " Sth. — ^To-day passed tlirongli Leyden and 
 Turin. I did not stay long in either of the 
 places. I put up for the night with Elder 
 Ashley's family in Martinsburg. Spent the 
 evening very agreeably in this pious family. 
 The Lord has dealt out his blessings to me, 
 while on this journey, with a bountiful hand. 
 Truly I have great reason, (in the language of 
 the Psalmist,) to call upon all that is within 
 me, and around me, to bless, praise and mag- 
 nify the name of tlie Lord, for his goodness 
 and wonderful works to the children of men ; 
 and his great mercy towards me, who am the 
 least worthy of such blessing. 
 
 " 9th. — Passed through M. and L. ; did not 
 stop long enough in eitlier j^lace to do any 
 business, feeling an anxiety to get home. I 
 arrived at my father's house about 8 o'clock 
 this evening ; found the family all well. It is 
 truly delightful, after a long absence, to meet 
 the loved circle, with whom we have spent the 
 years of childhood ; to greet those dear parents 
 who watched over our helpless infancy, and 
 who are ever alive to our interests and wel- 
 fare. 
 
 " 13th. — After spending three days with m j 
 friends, I came to-day to Champion. Went 
 
10 KinVAKD \VKEL». 
 
 this evening to a prayer meeting. The Lord 
 is pouring out his blessed spirit upon this 
 people ; turning the hearts of sinners to him- 
 self; and causing them to rejoice with joy un- 
 speakable and full of irlory. 
 
 " 11th. — Have had pretty good success for 
 several days past, I feel as though the God 
 of Jacob has been with me, since I have been 
 on this journey, and I am yet a monument of 
 his sparing mercy. Oh, that my heart was 
 more devoted to his cause, and less attached 
 to the things of the world. 
 
 " l%th. — Went to Watertown ; called on Dea- 
 con E. ; found his family very agreeable. 
 
 One of his children has recently experienced 
 religion, and is rejoicing in hope of the glory 
 of God. I went to hear Rev. Mr. Boardman 
 preach, and was much edified by his discourse. 
 
 " Dec. 4, 1826. — Commenced my school to- 
 day, in the town of Boonville, in the neigh- 
 borhood of Deacon Mitchell. I feel that I am 
 placed in an important situation, and that I 
 stand in need of divine aid and counsel. Oh, 
 that God would endow me with wisdom that I 
 may gain the affection and fear of my scholars, 
 so that I may be enabled to instruct them in 
 the difi'erent branches of science; and, above 
 all, direct their young and tender minds to the 
 * Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the 
 
FAITH AND WOJJKS. 11 
 
 world.' Oh God, wilt tlioii be with me and 
 help me ?" 
 
 Here we find this young disciple, not yet 
 twenty years of ap;e, weighed down in view of 
 the worth of the soul, and his responsibilities 
 as a teacher ; but as he was ever wont to do, 
 looking up in sweet confidence to the Hills 
 whence his help ever came. 
 
 " ^th. — This day is set apart by the Governor 
 of the State as a day of public thanksgiving to 
 Almiglity God for the signal blessings, both 
 temporal and spiritual, that he has granted 
 unto the people of this State. Oh! that I 
 may enter into the true spirit and temper of 
 thanksgiving. JSTo one has been more sig- 
 nally blest than myself. He has brought me 
 in a way that I knew not, and has kept rae 
 from many temptations incident to persons of 
 my age. Not unto me, but unto His name, be 
 glory and praise. 
 
 " 11^/i. — Sabbath. — I am now four miles from 
 church, but am enabled to go on foot every 
 Sabbath with ease. Where the heart is en- 
 gaged difiiculties are easily surmounted. I 
 have felt deeply during the day for the salva- 
 tion of my scholars. In the evening I at- 
 tended a meeting that was appointed in the 
 
12 * EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 school-bouse where I teach. I felt humbled, 
 and as though I could get down in the dust at 
 my Saviour's feet, and commit myself with all 
 my cares to him, believing his grace is suffi- 
 cient for me. 
 
 '■^ March Zlst^ 1S27. — Closed my school in 
 Boonville. It was an affecting season to me — 
 parting with those young immortals with 
 whom I have spent four months as their 
 teacher. God grant that none of them may, 
 through my neglect or wrong example, go 
 down to destruction. Before closing I read to 
 them the eighth chapter of Proverbs, and. 
 made some remarks, endeavoring to impress 
 upon their minds the importance of attending 
 to the calls of wisdom now^ in the days of 
 their youth. Most of them were affected to 
 tears. I then presented each of them with 
 a book, and asked the blessing of God 
 upon them. We then separated, probably 
 never to meet all together again, until we 
 meet at the judgment of the great day. Did 
 all teachers of youth but reflect upon that day, 
 how differently would they teach and conduct 
 before their pupils! I have been sensible of 
 many errors in conduct. I have often been 
 light and trifling, which has, in the retrospect, 
 caused me many dark, distressing honrs. 
 Oh ! that God would forgive me this great 
 
FAl'JIL AMD WOIJKS. 13 
 
 wickedness, and liclp me to overcome the evil 
 tendencies of a depraved heart ! Oh, Sa- 
 viour ! subdue it to thyself. When I reflect 
 upon the unnumbered mercies and blessiniis 
 God has bestowed upon me, and upon the 
 poor returns I have made, I am astonished at 
 his long-sutfering and loving-kindness. I can 
 only exclaim. Father ! I have sinned against 
 heaven and in thy sight. I pray thee remove 
 this heart of flint, and give me a heart of 
 flesh, one that will be susceptible of gratitude 
 to thee. And oh ! may I be an instrument in 
 thy hands of building up the walls of Zion." 
 
CHAPTER III. 
 
 CALL TO PREACH — STUDENT LIFE. 
 
 ^^ April %Wi^ 1827. — My mind has for some 
 time been much perplexed to know what my 
 duty is, respecting my calling in life. That is, 
 in what business or occupation can I be most 
 useful, in promoting the cause of Christ, and 
 the welfare of my fellow-men ? To live for self, 
 is to live for nought. I do desire, God assist- 
 ing me, to devote ray time, talents, and strength, 
 in the service of my Redeemer. 
 
 " The following queries, have presented them- 
 selves to my mind, relative to a call to the min- 
 istry of the gospel : — 1st, Am I willing to sac- 
 rifice all worldly pleasure, riches and honor, 
 and bear the reproaches of the wicked — in 
 faithfulness reproving the sinner, whether rid 
 or poor, high or low? 2d, Am I willing tc 
 have my name cnst out as evil, for the sake of 
 Ciirist ; and to labor in any part of the world, 
 that the glory of God shall require, and spend 
 
l-'AITU AND WOliKS. 15 
 
 my whole life in this service ? 3d, Is my love 
 for Clirist sucli, that I would willingly lay down 
 my life for his cause? Oh! my soul, decide 
 upon these points, as in the fear of God ; weigh 
 the matter well ; count the cost, before you de- 
 cide upon a work of such vast importance. Oh, 
 God of mercy, wilt thou assist me»in this great 
 and arduous work? oh, help me, dear Saviour, 
 to keep my heart, and bring my whole body 
 into subjection to thy law ; cause me to know 
 where thou feed est thy flock at noon, and may 
 I pitch my tent by the Shepherd's tent. Fur- 
 nish me to the work thou hast called me to ; 
 enable me to discharge every duty, and employ 
 every moment to the honor and glory of thy 
 great name." 
 
 In the spring of 1827, an institution of learn- 
 ing was established at Whitestown, Oneida 
 County, N. Y., called " The Oneida Institute." 
 It was one of the first, if not the first, on the 
 manual labor plan, and was intended to supply 
 the means, to indigent young men, of obtaining 
 a thorough collegiate education, by their own ef- 
 fort. It was at first rather unpopular — tliis at- 
 tempt to unite labor with learning. But there 
 were young men whose hearts were burning with 
 zeal to preach the gospel, who were poor, and 
 without friends able to assist them, who came 
 forward and soon filled the new rooms of this 
 
16 EDWARD AVEED. 
 
 novel Institution. Many of them became 
 scribes, well instructed, and have labored faith- 
 fully and successfully as ministers, in the fields 
 to which they iiave been called. 
 
 Edward Weed believed this to be another 
 voice of Providence, saying to him, "Go for- 
 ward." llenvrites, May 0th, " I contemplate 
 going to the Oneida Institute, where I can have 
 an opportunity of working for my board. I 
 have great need to feel my dependence more 
 upon God ; for should I gain all knowledge, 
 and possess all the powers of eloquence, so tiiat 
 I could display that knowledge to the best ad- 
 vantage, it will be of no avail, unless sanctified 
 by the Uuly Spirit. May I go there in the fear 
 and love of God, ever remembering that Jle 
 w^orketh in me both to will and to do." 
 
 With ten dollars in money, and his extra 
 wearing apparel tied up in his pocket handker- 
 chief, he started on foot, with a light and thank- 
 ful heart, for this institution, lie entered it on 
 the first day of its opening, and sustained him- 
 self there for four years, by two or three hours' 
 labor each day, and teaching school during 
 their three months' vacation. lie saw times 
 when he knew not where to obtain the next 
 penny, being too honest to borrow, without 
 knowing when or how he could pay. At one 
 time, he sat two or three evenings in his room 
 
FAITU AND WOKTCS. 17 
 
 in darkness, without the means of pnrchasinri; a 
 light, sorrowing: most of all that his studies must 
 thus be retarded. On his face, M'ith tears, lie 
 presented his case to Him, Avho hears the young 
 ravens when they cry. In the morning relief 
 came, and he was often heard to say, this kind 
 and marked interposition of Providence, so 
 strengthened his faith, that in all his subse- 
 quent course he always had the greatest confi- 
 dence, in every strait, that relief would, just at 
 the right time, come. It often came unsuught, 
 and from unknown sources; he always feeling 
 and acting as though directly from the hand of 
 his Heavenly Father. 
 
 During this part of his life, on the Sabbath^ 
 he went out into destitute neighborhoods and 
 established Sabbath-schouls, or labored in sus- 
 taining those alread}' in operation. From the 
 seed thus sown cliurches grew, and he was af- 
 terward permitted to stand and preach, in the 
 places where he once stood 'as Sabbath-school 
 superintendent or teacher. 
 
 The prayer meeting was also a place whither 
 he ever loved to resort, to mingle his petitions 
 with those who loved the pi'osperity of Zion. 
 But like many, who have devoted their time to 
 the study of the sciences, we soon find him 
 complaining of his heart being drawn away 
 2* 
 
18 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 from the usual frequent and deep communings 
 of God with his soul. 
 
 '•''May \2>tli. — The mercies of the past week 
 have been administered to me by the liberal 
 hand of m}- kind Heavenly Father, but I have 
 not been suitably affected by them. I have 
 reason to call upon my soul, and all that is 
 within me, to praise the Lord ; but I have to 
 mom*n my insensibility to such infinite love. 
 
 " June dOth. — This day has been set apart by 
 this institution as a day of fasting and prayer. 
 I would ask myself, wliat I have most reason 
 to be humble for? What are my most easily 
 besetting sins? How have I been brought in- 
 to my present unfeeling state? Why are my 
 thoughts so rarely dwelling upon heavenly and 
 divine things? May I have wisdom imparted 
 to me from above, that I may examine my 
 heart, that I may know its secret springs of ac- 
 tion — know my sins, and have a just sense of 
 their aggravation. 
 
 '■'•Evening. — While reflecting, today, upon 
 my manner of life since I became a member of 
 this institution, my coldness and indifference 
 justly bring me charged with wounding Christ 
 in the house of his friends, and stupidly leav- 
 ing in peril souls for whom he died. But ' I 
 will arise and go to my Heavenly Father.' Oh, 
 
FAini AND WOEKS. 19 
 
 that I may not live to bring reproach upon his 
 blessed cause, and dishonor his glorious name. 
 
 " 31st — Sahbath.—Th'ia is a beautiful morning, 
 the air is mild and pleasant, and all the vege- 
 table and animal creation appear to praise their 
 great Creator, Surely man, the most noble 
 specimen of creation, should unite in their 
 praises to his Maker and Redeemer. My soul, 
 delay not thou a moment in rising from the 
 things of the world, to things unseen and 
 heavenly. 
 
 " Oct. Ist, 1827. — This day is set apart as a 
 day of fasting and humiliation before God, by 
 the members of this institution. I hope he may 
 send down his blessed Spirit, and cause his 
 gracious influences to be felt in our midst. In 
 looking back upon my life during the past sea- 
 son, I can see that while I thought myself to be 
 supremely attached and devoted to God, my 
 life and conversation has done much to promote 
 the cause of Satan. How can a being thus 
 wrapt up in self, promote the cause of that glo- 
 rious Being, whose name is Love ? 
 
 " 3^. — The last two days have been days of 
 great solemnity. Appearances encourage us 
 to believe that God is about to pour out his 
 Spirit upon us. May this be our blessed case, 
 and may my own heart share largely in the 
 work. 
 
20 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 " 4:th. — Attended the opening of the Albany 
 Sj'iiod. The sermon was preaclied by llev. 
 Mr, B., of Troy. His text was, ' Preach the 
 gospel to every creature.' 1st, "What is the 
 guS])el ? Good news. What does the term 
 preach signify ? To proclaim as a herald. 
 Hence, the command is, to proclaim as a herald 
 God's message of good news to lost men, to 
 every creature ; not merely about us, but to 
 every creature every where — the ricli, the poor, 
 the honorable and the despised, the youth, mid- 
 dle-aged and aged. His remarks were cutting. 
 
 " Idth. — Heard Rev. John Frost preach from 
 Psalm cxix. 72. 'The law of thy mouth is bet- 
 ter unto me than thousands of gold and silver.' 
 1st, Introductorj' remarks. 2d, Contrasted the 
 blessings flowing from riches witii those flcnv- 
 ing from obedience to the law of God. In his 
 remarks he said, if the law of the Lord was 
 more precious than thousands of gold and sil- 
 ver, how diligent we should be in searching it 
 out. Parents who teach their children the fear 
 of God and love, of his law, bestow on them a 
 better legacy than thousands of gold and silver. 
 
 " 15M. — Received a letter from friend R. S. 
 M. Wrote one to Br. William. Oh, tluit the 
 Lord would sanctify it to the saWation of his 
 soul." 
 
 During Mr. Weed's four years of study at the 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 21 
 
 Oneida Institute, by his exercising close self- 
 denial, and continuing in persevering effort to 
 sustain himself, he succeeded without incurring 
 debt. 
 
 " Ilis indefatigable industry, manly deport- 
 ment, and ardent piety, secured to him many 
 friends, and confidence was placed in him, 
 which gave him posts of honor and places of 
 trust." 
 
 Having passed honorably through with his 
 collegiate course, he returned home to his pa- 
 rents, and for a year or more was engaged in 
 teaching school in that vicinity ; also pursuing 
 his own studies without instructors. 
 
CHAPTER IV. 
 
 THEOLOGICAL STUDIES. 
 (diary continued.) 
 
 In 1832 a theological seminary was com- 
 menced at Walnut Hills, near Cincinnati, 
 Ohio, called Lane Seminary. This was a 
 manual labor institution, presenting facilities 
 to the indigent student not found in any other 
 theological seminary at that time established 
 in the country. 
 
 Dr. Lyman Beecher of Boston, became its first 
 President ; and Mr. Weed, with otiiers, who 
 pursued their collegiate course at Oneida In- 
 stitute, constituted a goodly portion of the first 
 class of students. 
 
 With a talented president, and a comple- 
 ment of competent professors, he commenced 
 his theological studies with the fairest pros- 
 pects of attaining what he ardently desired, a 
 thorough preparation to preach the gospel. 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 23 
 
 Early in the spring of 1832 he went forth 
 empty-handed to this new hall of science, yet 
 nothinrr doubtins: that the God in whom Abra- 
 ham trusted would be his God, direct his every 
 step, and provide for every want. 
 
 His occasional diary, at this date, refers al- 
 most entirely to his private reading and labors, 
 and his religious exercises. He writes, 
 
 " May ^Sth, 1832. — Have this morning fin- 
 ished reading the memoir of Pastor Oberlin. 
 Never have I taken up a book with expecta- 
 tions less raised, or laid one down better satis- 
 fied that my time has been well spent. The 
 book is extremely modest and unassuming in 
 its appearance. One would suppose from the 
 manner in which it is done up it was merely a 
 book to j)lease children. But few histories of 
 pious and distinguished persons are better 
 adapted to excite the reader to lively activity, 
 than this simple narrative of Oberlin's faith, 
 zeal, and labors. The style of the author is 
 unusually pleasing; perfect simplicity is main- 
 tained throughout ; no eflurt made at display ; 
 no desire manifested to make the good pastor 
 the hero of a story. The whole is a simple 
 narrative of heart-melting, spii it-stirring facts. 
 No Christian can sit down to their perusal 
 without being more excited and encouraged in 
 the work of doing good." 
 
24 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 " Oct. — . — ^fy dear brother, William ncn- 
 rj, died the lirst of this month. Sick only 
 twelve hom-s. He died at Kewark, N. Y., and 
 was much respected by the citizens of that 
 place. He had no time to speak of hopes or 
 fears, beinj^ insensible from the first. If un- 
 prepared — oh ! dreadful thought. ' The judge 
 of all the earth will do right.' 
 
 " This has been a dreadful month. The 
 cholera has been among us doing its work of 
 death. Many wives have been made widows, 
 and children, fatherless. And oh ! what a 
 number of souls hurried unprepared into eter- 
 nity. From four to five hundred of the popu- 
 lation of Cincinnati died in the short space of 
 three weeks.'' 
 
 " JVbv. 1'^tli. — Attended meeting in the city, 
 
 and heard Dr. 13 ■ preach a sermon, rich in 
 
 gospel truth, from 1 John v. -i. lie drew a 
 comparison between the jo)-s of sense and 
 those of religion, and showed how faith over- 
 comes the world. I assumed the responsi- 
 bility of superintending the Sabbath-school in 
 the Sixth Church. Perhaps I have been un- 
 wise. Tins much is certain, some of the breth- 
 ren owjlit to go forward. All that were suit- 
 able refused. The cause of Sabbath-schools is 
 perishing for want of help. I am determined 
 to go forward, leaning upoa the arm of the 
 
FAITH AND WOIiKS, 25 
 
 Lord. Took a class likewise in the Fourth 
 Churoli. 
 
 " Sabbath evening I spent mostly in reading 
 the 'Natural History of Entiiusiasm.' Its au- 
 tiior is yet unknown. It is a work character- 
 ized by deep thought, expressed in vigorous 
 and enchanting language, and the whole bap- 
 tized with the spirit of the gospel. No Ciiris- 
 tian can attentively peruse its pages without 
 being seai'ched and edified. No part of the 
 book, which I liave read, but what is full 
 of useful remark and instruction. But his 
 thoughts on the enthusiasm of pi'ophetical in- 
 terpretation and a special providence, which 
 have occupied my attention this evening, are 
 unusually pertinent, judicious, and weighty. 
 They are well worthy the serious attention of 
 those who love the weal of Ziou, at the present 
 time. 
 
 " Dec. 23^. — Spent the evening in reading 
 from the ' Remains of Cecil,' a book of inesti- 
 mable value to the minister. ' Cecil' was a 
 master-mind, and deeply read in the workings 
 of the human heart. His remarks ought to be 
 read, re-read, and read again. 
 
 " Some of his views are singular, perhaps 
 wrong. His notions of ministerial dignity, I 
 think fallacious. It is not reasonable for me to 
 suppose, because 1 have devoted myself to one 
 
26 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 profession, and another person to another, that 
 the latter can give nie no valuable hints in my 
 calling ; or that if he attempts the thing, I 
 ought to repel him as an ignorant assumer. 
 Ko ; let me candidly hear his suggestions, and 
 if he be wrong, let me convince him of it. It 
 is the part of true dignity to learn of all. It is 
 said that Perkins, the celebrated steam-engi- 
 neer, spent much time and several thousand 
 dollars to remedy a defect in the machinery 
 of his steam-engine, which was finally accom- 
 plished by a leather strap, which was suggested 
 by a bj^-stander, and cost only eighteen-pence. 
 ' The mind that is fully possessed with the 
 desire to know good things, and infuse a 
 knowledge .of them into others, wlien such a 
 man would sj:>eak, his words, like so many 
 nimble and airy servitors, trip about him at 
 command, and in well-ordered files, as he 
 would wish, fall aptly into their places.' La- 
 vater and Cecil were constantly in the habit 
 of reading men, and instead of a fictitious 
 character, in their illustrations, they always 
 took a real one. A good plan. 
 
 " Dec. 25th. — ^The man who would find 
 happiness, must even bear to have it beaten 
 into him. No one ever found it by chance or 
 yawned it into being with a wish. 
 
 " 26th. — Went to city to-day, and heard the 
 
FAITU Ai!JD AV014KS. 27 
 
 inanecnral addresses of Dr. Beecher and Pro- 
 fessor Uiggs. I was liiglily delighted with 
 them, particuhirly with the Doctor's. lie treat- 
 ed the whole subject of education with a mas- 
 terly hand. The charge of the trustees of the 
 Institution to the candidates, by Mr. Gallighei*, 
 Avas line and heart moving. Ilis own feelings 
 kindled, and his tears flowed in unison with 
 many others. His eloquence is Nature's elo- 
 quence. 
 
 '"' Bought another blank book to-day, and 
 am determined, from this time forward, to re- 
 cord whatever train of thought shall appear to 
 me profitable, which may occur in my various 
 reading. I am fully convinced my manner of 
 reading, thinking and acting, has been alto- 
 gether too desultory and unsystematized. I 
 am now twenty-five years old, and have spent 
 from five to six years in close study. Have 
 thought much upon a variety of subjects, and 
 have written but little upon any ; of course my 
 acquirements must be a disorganized, un- 
 digested, crude mass. With the lielp of God, 
 I am determined to be more diligent thorough 
 and systematic in all my eflforts. 
 
 "316/', 10 o'docl'^ c veiling. — Have spent the 
 evening thus far in examining the institution 
 of the Lord's Sujjper, My mind was drawn to 
 the investigation of this subject by having wit- 
 
28 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 nessecl its celebration yesterday ; when, I 
 thought, there was a manifest departure from 
 the mode laid down in scripture. My opinion 
 lias been fully conlirined by the investigation. 
 Ministers are altogether too careless upon sub- 
 jects of this nature. There ought to be great 
 care to administer the ordinances of the Gos- 
 pel, as far as practicable, according to script- 
 ural instruction. Otherwise, by constant in- 
 novations and changes, their original beauty 
 and simplicity will be done away, and the 
 thing represented by them lost sight of. The 
 Romish Church is an example. — I have re- 
 solved to spend the coming day in a retrospect 
 of the i^ast year. I am almost afraid to com- 
 mence the work, so much of the past year has 
 been flittered away. There are so many gross 
 violations of duty, so many opportunities of 
 doing good neglected, so much coldness and 
 deadness has ]>ervaded my soul, that it is a 
 fearful, dreadful business. Were God strict to 
 nuii'k iniquity, even fortius one year, I should 
 sink to the lowest hell. I have lived twenty- 
 iive years, and none of them have been less 
 sinful than the last. Where could I flee were 
 it not for the Saviour ? Commenced a letter 
 to my parents, giving them a short account of 
 my labors and studies the past year. 
 
 " Jan. Qth., 1833. — Arose this morning with 
 
FAITir AND WOKKS. 29 
 
 ray spirits mnch 'leprosRcd. Have felt, for a 
 few (lays, some alarming symptoms of disease ; 
 a pain in the pit of my stomach, which causes 
 me mucli trouble. 
 
 Spent Saturday afternoon at Mr. Brainard's, 
 in arranging the Sabbath-school Library be- 
 lonirinij to his Church. AVliile there I saw 
 
 Mr. and Mrs. . They are returned 
 
 missionaries. Within a few weeks past, I have 
 frequently met with them. His health is poor 
 and his mind beclouded. They are both per- 
 fect specimens of hypochondria in religion. 
 ]\[ay the Lord preserve me from such a state. 
 This morning I attended a communion season 
 at the seminary. I was again pained at the 
 departure from the Scriptural manner of ad- 
 ministering the ordinance. Singing was inter- 
 spersed through the whole service, and the 
 bread broken by each communicant. 
 
 " 1th. — This day has been set apart, by several 
 denominations of Christians, throughout the 
 United States, as a season of fasting and prayer 
 for the conversion of the world. Three of the 
 churches in Cincinnati united together in the 
 observance of it. I was priWleged with at- 
 tending their meetings. Seldom has it been 
 my lot to witness more interesting and sol- 
 enm convocations of the people of God. 
 There is every reason to believe that a re- 
 3* 
 
so EDWARD WEED. 
 
 vival is commencing in Cincinnati. May 
 the Lord grant it to be one of exceeding 
 power. In tlie evening, attended the con- 
 cert in the Fourth Church, and made a state- 
 ment of missionary facts. When will my 
 stupid heart become thoroughly j^enetrated 
 with tlie love of God? 
 
 " 12th. — I am at present engaged evenings, 
 in reading Williams' Commentary on Solo- 
 mon's Songs. This book, on account of its high 
 wrought eastern ligures, has always been to me 
 one of difKcult interpretaiion. I hope to be 
 much benefitted by the volume before me. 
 
 " ISth. — Sahhath. — In the morning I was en- 
 gaged in investigating what is meant by being 
 created in the image of God. Perhaps the 
 25opular opinion may not be the true one : Gen. 
 i. 27 ; V. 1,3; 2d Cor. iii. 18 ; Col. iii. 
 10 ; Eph. iv. 24 ; 1 John iii. 2 ;• 1 Cor. xv. 49. 
 In the morning, heard a missionary sermon 
 from Mr. B. He is a man full of the spirit and 
 love of the gospel. By zeal and love he will 
 do much to awaken the western churches. 
 His sermon wanted system. Philosophy, 
 doctrines, facts and aj^plications, were all 
 mingled together. In the evening I heard 
 Bro. Brainard preach. Ilis sul)ject was the 
 terror of the law. His sermon was well 
 
FAITn AND WORKS. 31 
 
 arrangod, admirahlj illustrated, and deliv- 
 ered with much feeling. 
 
 " 2Wi. — Have been engaged, when not oc- 
 cupied with seminary duties, for several days 
 ])ast, in writing letters to friends. Bent a foh'o 
 sheet to my parents." 
 
CHAPTER Y. 
 
 LEA^TES LANE LICENSED TO PREACH ANTI- 
 
 SLAVEKY L ABORS MARRI At? K. 
 
 For nearly tln-ee years after Mr. Weed went 
 to Lane Seminary, lie })ursue(l liis theological 
 studies witii assiduity and success ; and was 
 already anticipating- their corn})]etion and Ids 
 license to preach, when a circumstance occur- 
 red, which changed the whole aspect of his 
 future. 
 
 In the literary society to which he helouged, 
 the Anti-slavery question was taken up and 
 discussed as a mere chance question. The 
 subject elicited much interest as one of prac- 
 tical importance ; involving so much con- 
 nected with the morals and i"eligion of the 
 country, and covered so much ground, that 
 it was continued in deljatc week after week. 
 The trustees fearing the consequences of the 
 excitement which was naturally induced in 
 
VArrn and woijks. 3"> 
 
 tlie scminaiy and community aronnd, re- 
 quested tlie students to drop the subject. 
 Tliey ])er8isted, and finally an ordinance was 
 passed proliihitini;- its i'urther discussion. Mr. 
 Weed, with a largo numher of the students, 
 considei'ing tliis act of the trustees, an unjusti- 
 fiable prohil)ition of their freedom of speech, 
 asked a dismission, and left the seminary. 
 He with others — some of them sons of slave- 
 holders at the South — went to Cumminsville, 
 about six miles from Cincinnati, and sat down 
 for three months, to the critical examination 
 of the Old Testament in Hebrew, that they 
 might the better understand the Hebrew in- 
 stitutions, as recorded there. Tlie young men 
 thus scattered, made themselves well acquaint- 
 ed with the system of American slavery, and 
 stood up a marshalled host against oppression. 
 
 In Nov. 1835, at Russelville, Ohio, Mr. 
 Weed was licensed by the Chilicothe Presby- 
 tery, to preach the Gospel ; and went forth on 
 his mission of love among the destitute. 
 
 He was invited to become lecturing agent 
 for the Am. Anti-slavery Society, in which 
 capacity he labored some six months, when 
 he was induced to become the General Agent 
 for the Ohio State A. S. Soc. Under the 
 direction of this Soc, he visited and organ- 
 ized auxiliary societies in almost every 
 
34 EDWARD Wl-nCD. 
 
 comity in the State ; lectured, discussed witli 
 opponents in liundi'cds of its villaijes ; Avas 
 niubbod : and wicked men tlireatcned liis lite, 
 though in the kind ]>rovidence of God, lie 
 escajied uninjured. Extracts from his letters 
 at this time, will ex]iil)it by his own testi- 
 mony, his s^nrit and labors. 
 
 "Rochester, N. Y., March 1th, 183G. 
 " Dear Sisters : — Perhaps you think by this 
 time that Br. Weed, in the midst of old friends 
 and acquaintance, has forgotten you ; it is not 
 so, though I have not written to you as soon as 
 I intended. Yet I have constantly carried you, 
 and the blessed cause in which you are en- 
 gaged, on my heart. I will give you a short 
 account of my journeyings and doings since I 
 left Cincinnati : — In the Urst place Br. R. and 
 myself have been together but very little. We 
 parted at Columbus ; he remained and spent 
 the Sabbath there, with the colored people, 
 and I went on to Mt. Vernon, and stopped 
 with Bro. Iligbie. Preached for him three 
 times ; once from Ps. Ixviii. 31 : ' Ethiopia shall 
 soon stretch forth her hands unto God,' &c. 
 In this discourse I pressed the claims of 
 the colored people upon their sympathies, 
 their prayers and their muniiicence, and par- 
 ticularly your schools. They were much 
 
FAITH AND AVOKKH. o5 
 
 interested, and intended to take np a collec- 
 tion the next SaLbatli ; they are an excellent 
 people, full of faith and p;ood works, and 
 near]}'" all al)uliti()iiist8. 13r. 11. is doing well; 
 the Lord is blessing him wonderfully. His 
 church has more than doubled the last year. 
 I was exceedingly refreshed and encouraged by 
 my visit among them. I, of course, intended to 
 take the first stage after the Sabbath ; but in this 
 I was disa})pointed — it was full — and by this 
 little incident, I was detained two days. In- 
 deed, I was all the rest of the week getting to 
 Cleveland — a distance of 90 miles. 
 
 "At C. I found Pres. Mahan, and several 
 of the Oberlin brethren engaged in a protract- 
 ed meeting; the Lord was blessing them. 
 When I left there were 40 or 50 in the anxious 
 room. Br. M. preaches with great power. 
 Just opposite C, on the other side of the 
 river, he had just closed a protracted meet- 
 ing ; in which from one to two hundred souls 
 w^ere hopefully converted. 
 
 " From C. I came to this place, stayed 
 over the Sabbath, and then went directly 
 on to Utica, where I found Br. Weld, clos- 
 ing up his long and splendid course of 
 lectures. On the evening of his concluding 
 lecture, six himdred names were obtained to 
 the Abolition pledge. Many of the good 
 
36 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 people seemed to feel as though they had 
 experienced a new conversion ; and that an im- 
 portant revival of religion liad occurred among 
 them. 
 
 " While there, I presented the claims of your 
 schools. The ladies of U , will do some- 
 thing handsome for you. I returned to this 
 place with brethren W — and S — . And here 
 we are, making our arrangements for future 
 action. 
 
 "West Union, Juhj 5t/t, 1830. 
 " Deak Sister : — I am now on the sixth let- 
 ter that I have written this morning. All my 
 time has been occupied since I left Cincinnati. 
 Tuesday night I preached at New Richmond ; 
 Wednesday I rode to Br. Brooks school, 25 
 miles distant; the next day I went to Itipley, 
 (by way of lied Oak); preached there in the 
 evening; on the following moi-ning traversed 
 the whole village of Jiipley, with Br. llankin, 
 soliciting donations for the house, among the 
 colored people, and obtained nearly forty dol- 
 lars ; then got into my gig (alias go-cart) and 
 rode 15 miles, by which time it was 8 p. m. ; 
 in the morning I rode 12 miles, lectured on 
 slavery two hours, organized a society of lifty 
 members, distributed and sold numerous in- 
 cendiary pamphlets, &c. &c. ; on the Sab- 
 
FATTII AND AVOKK^t. 87 
 
 butli I preaclicd twjcc in places four miles 
 apjii-t; yestcrduy I delivered a teniperancc 
 lecture at 12 o'clock, two hours loiif; ; and 
 then rode to this place, twclv^e miles. By this 
 short sketch, you can see how 1 am hauled 
 about. But you will say, " Why did you 
 write five letters before you touched mine ?" 
 I will tell you. It is always my rule to 
 attend to those things immediately connected 
 with my regular business ; and then if I have 
 any spare time, to devote it to that whicli 
 is not indispensable. Is not this right '^ 
 Christ, you know, said to his mother — when 
 accused of a seeming neglect of his parents, — 
 " Wist ye not that I must beabout my Father's 
 business?" 
 
 " I received a letter last evening from our 
 
 dear sister W , saying she has torty schtil- 
 
 ars on her list, and thirty-live in regular at- 
 tendance. She formed a maternal association 
 among the colored females of ChilicoHie on 
 the same day that you formed yours in Cincin- 
 nati, and read to them from ' Abbott's Mother 
 at Home,' like yourselves. A ha])j>y coinci- 
 dence this. I trust both societies will do much 
 good. I long for moie of the unction of tiie 
 lluly Ghost, more weanedness fruui the world. 
 Pray for me. I spend the next Sabbath at 
 Georgetown, and the succeeding one at Man- 
 
38' EDWAPD -WEED. 
 
 Chester. Have been threatened, since I com- 
 menced blowing the abolition trumpet, with 
 egj-s," ifec itc. 
 
 " PlKETON, Jul J/ 17t7i, 1S36. 
 
 " My Deak : — Butli your letters were 
 
 duly received. Much violence is abroad in 
 the land. For the lust four days I have been 
 in the midst of an infuriated mob who were 
 seeking my life. But the Lord has delivered 
 me out of their hand. I have just communi- 
 cated the particulars in a letter to Mr. Birney, 
 and you will probably see it in the ' Philan- 
 thropist' I was enabled, through the whole 
 scene, to remain perfectly firm and self-pos- 
 sessed. Among the friends that stood by 
 me were some noble-hearted women ; they 
 had the spirit of martyrs ; tliey were none 
 of your fainting sort. I shall hold them 
 in everlasting remembrance for the noble- 
 hearted willingness which they manifested to 
 take joyfully the siioiling of their goods. Oh ! 
 how refreshing, now and then, to meet with 
 whole-souled men and women. Perhaps I 
 may be called to die a martyr to the cause 
 which I am pleading. I feel that necessity is 
 upon me to be ready to die at any moment. 
 
 " Now, while I am writing, there are men 
 all around thirsting for my blood, and would 
 
kill me, if tlicy had a good opportunity, as 
 soon as they would a snake ! Pray for me, 
 that I may, in ])atience, possess my soul, and 
 be ready to dej)art M'henever God calls. "NYe 
 have fallen upon perilous times ; law is pros- 
 trate, God alone must be our shield and pro- 
 tector. The crisis is not yet come, but is fast 
 approaching. I say, with all my soul, let it 
 come f I may fall, but truth must and will 
 triumph. I shall probably leave here to-mor- 
 row. Adieu." 
 
 " Gkkenfield, Sq)t. 2d, 1836. 
 
 " My Dear Brother : — Your letter was read 
 by me with pleasure, and I -am glad you are 
 not satisfied with your present occupation. 
 Not that I count it dishonorable ; every honest 
 occupation is honorable ; but we may mistake 
 our calling, and thus impair our usefulness and 
 happiness through life. If this be true, how 
 much thought, prayer, acquaintance with self 
 and the world, are necessary for a young man 
 in choosing his station on the arena of life. 
 
 " In seeking the advice of friends, take no 
 man's opinion as infallible, but make it your 
 invariable practice fo tJilnl'for yourself. Tliis 
 will give independence, strength, and \agor of 
 mind. 
 
 " To get a good education is no small under- 
 
40 * KDWAKD AVKKP. 
 
 taking. It is not boys' plav. Tie tliat at- 
 tempts it and is successful must sit down tirst 
 and count the cost. There jire, however, no 
 difficulties but what aj:>plication and persever- 
 ance will overcome. It" ^'our mind is unalter- 
 ably made up to get an education, I would 
 advise you, by all means, to enter the Oberlin 
 Institution next sprintj. The reason I preiey 
 your entering Oberlin is, because there, I 
 think, you will be surrounded by circumstan- 
 ces best calculated to develop 3'our mind, and 
 make you an efficient and useful man. Stay 
 where you are until spring, faithfully discharg- 
 ing the duties of your station, as much so as 
 though you intended to make it your business 
 through life. In the mean time improve every 
 opportunity of stoi-ing your iiiind M'itli useful 
 knowledge by i-eading. Every moment lost is 
 robbing you oi' power. Time is power — time 
 is money — time is knowledge, and industry is 
 the key to unlock them all. 
 
 " I am still lecturing on the subject of sla- 
 very ; tVe(pie?itly surrf^mded by mobs, threat- 
 ened on every side. But poor souls, they are 
 great cowards ! You ask, had I not better re- 
 linquish the business? No — never! So long 
 as the Loid gives me strength to plead tlic 
 cause of the poor and needy, my mouth shall 
 be opened for the dumb. As to danger. ' If 
 
•PAITII AND WOKKS. 41 
 
 tlic Lord is my helper, I will not fear what 
 man can do unto me !' I feel as though a cri- 
 sis had arrived in the history of our country, 
 in which it is the duty of every good man to 
 take his stand on the side of law, trutli, aud 
 the oppressed, and to maintain it at the peril 
 of his life. No other course can save us from 
 ruin. My dear brother, let me entreat you to 
 study well the law of love^ the foundation stone 
 of all the great principles of liberty. Let it 
 clothe you as a garment." 
 
 " W. Union, Sept. ^Sth, 1830. 
 
 "My Dkar : — All your letters have 
 
 been received. Tiie one left at I did 
 
 not get until a few days since. I sympathize, 
 with all my soul, in your trials. I know how 
 distressing is the apprehension that the plans 
 of usefulness, whicli we have prayerfully and 
 in the benevolence of our heart f )rmed, must 
 be given up. It is, indeed, ])lucking out the 
 right eye. I trust, however, the Lord will be 
 to you much better than your feai-s. He not 
 of raid. Why should you ? ' All things shall 
 work together for the good of them that love 
 God.' What a promise ! How broad ! How 
 deep! How full! Engrave it on the palms 
 of your hand, and let it be inwrought with 
 every fibre of your soul. The reason that I 
 
42 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 did not meet you at C was that I did not 
 
 know when you would be there. At the time 
 you was there I was at Waverley, in the midst of 
 a bloodthirsty, infuriated mob, only seventeen 
 miles from you. Since that time I have labored 
 most incessantly, and, I trust, not altogether 
 unsuccessfully. I will give you a specimen. 
 It is now Wednesday eve ; I have travelled 
 this week fifty miles, and spoken six times, 
 averaging an hour and a half each time. I 
 always succeed in securing the most profound 
 attention, even from the mob, when they come 
 within the hearing of my voice. I have met 
 with no serious interruptions since I last wrote. 
 The enemies of the cause seem to satisfy them- 
 selves at present with getting up reports that I 
 have been most inhunumly beaten or mur- 
 dered, to harass my friends. In making up 
 lies of this sort they discover great ingenuity. 
 Hitherto the Lord hath preserved me." 
 
 On the nth of Is^'ov., 183G, Mr. TTeed was 
 united in marriage with Miss Phebe Mathews, 
 of Mexico, N. Y.; a young lady of kindred 
 spirit, and with whom he became acquainted 
 while she was engaged in teaching among 
 the free colored people of Cincinnati. He fol- 
 lowed not the Hebrew rule to remain in rest 
 at home a year, but in a few days he resumed 
 
FAirn AND WORKS. 43 
 
 his labors, of travel, peril, and toil. When 
 her health would permit of it, Mrs. "Weed ac- 
 companied him, "not to be ministered unto, 
 but to minister;" "throwing her whole S(»ul 
 into the work, and wherever she went stamp- 
 ing it with her own impress." 
 
 " Mansfield, Nov. IGth. 
 
 " My Dear Wife : — On Sabbath day I 
 preached three times, with acceptance to the 
 people, and was blessed in my own soul. I am 
 
 still in the Vicinity of M lecturing on the 
 
 sul)ject of slavery. Pray for me. I think 
 some of taking Putnam in my way south. I 
 
 want to see Brother G , to digest some 
 
 general plan of operation throughout the State ; 
 
 and Sister S , to devise some measures for 
 
 the formation of a Female State A. S. Society. 
 1 think, if this can be brought about, it will be 
 the means of accomplishing much for the poor 
 slave. 
 
 " When woman shall stand forth in her 
 glory, filling the sphere designed her, and 
 clothed in her moral beaut}', I shall think the 
 millennium is near at hand. Let there be de- 
 vised some means by which the intelligent, the 
 philanthropic, the great, warm, gushing-hearted 
 women of the nation, can be brought together 
 to exchange views, take an inventory of the 
 
44 KTIAVARD WKED. 
 
 Avants of their sex, and adopt measures to sup- 
 ply those wants, and to set up the standard of 
 female education and moral action wliere God 
 placed it. Little yet has been done cunipara- 
 tively in the female world. It cannot much 
 longer be overlooked or remain inactive. Tiicre 
 must soon be a'move upon this subject. What 
 part think you, Providence has designed you 
 to act ? Are you to stand forth among the 
 daughters of America, and exert an extended 
 and lioly influence in the education of your 
 sex ?" 
 
 "iVoy. 2"2rZ.— Dkar Wife:—! am still at 
 
 M . Am to lecture here to-night, to-mor 
 
 row night, and the following. You ask what 
 has occasioned you to stay so long? The 
 friends are so anxious to hear, and have some- 
 thing done upon the subject, 1 could not resist 
 their importunity. I lectured last week in a 
 place four miles distant. The people were 
 much interested. The religious portion of 
 them felt as though their views of love to God 
 and man had been much enlarged, and their 
 souls instructed in righteousness. I am more 
 than ever convinced that pleading the cause 
 of the poor and needy is not inconsistent with 
 preaching the gospel, but that it is an indis- 
 pensable part of a minister's duty. 
 
FAITJJ AND WOinvS. 45 
 
 " When I came here the church were afVaid 
 lest they should not be able to stand up iiiuler 
 all the obloquy that might come upou them if 
 they took a decided stand. Tlieir faith in God 
 lias been strengthened, and their determina- 
 tion to go forward in every duty, testifying 
 against every sin. I hojje a richer blessing 
 may follow. 
 
 " 24^/i. — The calls to lecture here are so nu- 
 merous I do not know but I shall give up the 
 idea of going south soon. I am beginning 
 to feel 1 can do more good by staying here 
 and in the vicinity a month or two than by 
 going anywhere else. 
 
 '"• The first evening I lectured, a merchant, a 
 man of liberal education, objected to my argu- 
 ment. I answered the objection ; he replied, 
 and thus the discussion continued the whole 
 evening. Last night the Congregational house 
 was opened for us. A large audience attended, 
 and the evening was spent in a. debate with 
 a young lawyer. To-night a strong-minded 
 farmer is to enter the field of contest. Thus 
 far, the Lord has enabled me to maintain the 
 truth with dignity and honor ; I believe his 
 grace will still sustain me. Again, I must 
 say, adieu." 
 
46 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 " Mansfield, JVby. 18^^, 183G. 
 
 " Dear Br. T : — The last week I spent 
 
 at Oberlin, and was much pleased with the ap- 
 pearance of things there. The Institution is in 
 a nourishing condition, well furnished with 
 professors of the highest order of talent. Stu- 
 dents are numerous, more than they can ac- 
 commodate. I know of no Institution in our 
 country where is collected together a larger 
 amount of piety and intellectual power. It is 
 just the place for you, and I have made 
 arrangements for your entering next spring. 
 If such a berth had been offered me, when I 
 commenced my studies, I should have leaped 
 with joy. I hope, dear brotlier, you will come 
 with a full — I wish I could say a holy — deter- 
 mination, that the world shall be blessed by 
 your living in it. 
 
 '' I am now in the vicinity of M , still 
 
 lecturing on shivery. AVhen I stop|»ed here, it 
 wjis witii tiie expectation of going into the 
 southern part of the State soon, but the interest 
 has increased so nnich, and the desire to hear, 
 that I may be detained for some time in this 
 county. 
 
 " Write soon. Direct to O , and it will 
 
 be sent on to me, wherever I may be. 
 " Your affectionate brother. 
 
 " Edward." 
 
CHAPTEE YI. 
 
 LETTERS CONTINUED. CLOSES HIS A. S. LABORS. 
 
 "Granyille, Jan. 24^A, 1837. 
 
 " My Dear Wife : — I seize ujjon a moment 
 to commence a letter to you. You do not 
 probably regret the loss of my society more 
 than I do yours. Be assured you are not for- 
 gotten. I l)ad a quick and pleasant ride on 
 Monday. Found the friends much disap- 
 pointed because I was not here over the Sab- 
 bath. 
 
 " Preached last evening, had a good audi- 
 ence, and excellent attention. I found Brother 
 
 P still in the vicinity. Last Saturday he 
 
 went out to 11 to lecture, and was mobbed 
 
 twice on that day. Monday he appointed to 
 lecture again. The mobocrats, alias defenders 
 of the constitution and union, spent the Sab- 
 bath in scouring the country and rallying their 
 forces. On Monday they came in about 300 
 
48 ErnvAKi) avkkd. 
 
 strong. Brother K was dragged out of 
 
 the i)ulpit by them, and remained in their 
 hands about lialf an hour, when his friends 
 succeeded in extiicating him. He then went 
 to a village four miles distant, lectured that 
 evening, and organized a society of 36 mem- 
 
 Lers. lieturaed to II after the lecture, 
 
 and the next morning lectured there without 
 interruption, and organized a society of 60 
 members. lie left liere this m<^)rning for 
 Mount Vernon, almost worn out with fatigue. . 
 " 26M. — 1 have given two lectures in this 
 place ; the young ladies of the seminary at- 
 tended. The audience has numbered about 
 300. I doubt not you are still praying for my 
 sanctification. I am endeavoring to strive to- 
 gether with you in my prayers for the same 
 object. If I know ni}' own heart, it is the set- 
 tled determination of un' soul to i)e a holy 
 man. I know nutiiing else will make me use- 
 ful or happy. Tlie apj)laut;e of man and the 
 i^ood things of this world, how empty, how ut- 
 terly insutlicient to till the desires of an im- 
 mortal spirit ! God alaiw can do this. 1 think 
 I can say with the Psalmist, ' I shall be satis- 
 tied when I awake with thy likeness.'" 
 
 " Mansfield, Feb. Mh. 
 " I arrived here last evening. Found yom* 
 
FAITH AJJD WOEKS. 49 
 
 letter in tlie oflice ; it refrcslied iny soul much. 
 Sometimes I give way to my feelings, get sick of 
 my business. Think it hard to be constantly 
 among strangers, away from home. Nothing 
 befoi'e me but hibor, labor — toil, toil — fatigue — 
 talk, talk ! Then, again, I remember how much 
 Christ did for a dying world. For thirty-thi-ec 
 long years left his throne of glory, his Father's 
 bosom, and for the joy that was set before him 
 e-ndured rhe cross, despising tiie shame. And 
 shall I be unwilling to make these little sacri- 
 fices, which, compared with his, are infinitesi- 
 mal nothings ? Such reflections revive my 
 spirit, nerve my soul, and lead me to despise 
 myself for the selfish feelings previously in- 
 dulged. My last letter left me at Granville. 
 I continued my lectures there until Wednesday 
 evening. The audiences were so good, the at- 
 tention so fixed, and all continued so quiet 
 through the whole that the people consider it 
 a perfect triumph." 
 
 " Yekmilion, Feb. \^tJi. 
 
 "1 am at this place delivering a course of 
 lectures — have got almost through. Thus lar, I 
 have had full and attentive audiences, and the 
 prospect is of forming an etiicient society. 
 
 " My health is good with the exception of a 
 slight cold, which does not, however, afl;ect my 
 
60 KUWAKD WEED. 
 
 speaking organs. I am still every moniing 
 pursuing luy biblical studies. I bad a pre- 
 cious feast ibis morning in reading tbe last 
 cbapter of 1 Corintbians, and part of tbe first 
 cbapter of 2 Corintbians. Tbe deep and boly 
 affection wbicb tbe Apostle manifests for bis 
 Lretbren, and tbe pure, disinterested benevo- 
 lence, wbicb breatbcs in every line, coniunuuls 
 my admiration of bim, wbetber I possess a like 
 benevolence or not. I bave continued aspira- 
 tions after boliness ; but wben, ob ! wben, 
 sball I be holy ? 
 
 " Idth. — Tliis is a bitter cold morning, and 
 I feel about as juicy as a boiled cbip ; so you 
 may prepare yourself for some brilliant fligbts. 
 Kespecting my coming soutb, I tbink I sball 
 be able to do so in tbe course of tbreo or four 
 weeks. My work is nearly done bere ; tbere 
 are but a few more places wbere I tbink it 
 will be profitable to lecture in tbis vicinity. 
 
 Fatber M lectured tbis week in Asbland. 
 
 Succeeded, in tbe midst of mobs, in going 
 tbrougb witb bis course and forming a society. 
 If our anniversary is beld at Granville, I bave 
 agreed to spend tbree or four weeks previous 
 in labor in Licking County." 
 
 " Mansfield, FS. 25th. 
 " I got bere about noon, and received your 
 
1<'A1T1I AND ^V01iKS. 51 
 
 good, long letter, and little notes without num- 
 ber, all of w hi ell were devoured with eager- 
 uess. You know nut how I am pressed with 
 tuil. Alter I got your letters today it was 
 three hours before I ct»uld command time to 
 read them, my heart aching all the time to be 
 alone. And now I must bid you good-night, 
 and prepare for the Sabbath. 
 
 " Monday Morning. — The Sabbath is past, 
 and my body and mind have been much re- 
 freshed by the rest and privileges I have 
 
 enjoyed. Brother K stood up boldly and 
 
 preached gloriously. Bless the Lord ! This 
 poor, dying world is wailing and groaning for 
 want of holy, efficient men of God. I preached 
 but one sermon j^esterday. My expectation 
 now is, if the Lord permit, to see you in the 
 course of three weeks. Last week I was lec- 
 turing below Belleville, and organized a soci- 
 ety, Wednesday I go to Grallion. Next week 
 come back here and lecture, and then bid 
 them farewell." 
 
 " Gallion, March 2>d. 
 " My Dear "Wife : — Monday I mailed a 
 letter to you. I have been lecturing every 
 evening since except Tuesday. Have been 
 most thoroughly mobbed ; eggs flew as thick as 
 grapes, some of them filled witli paint. We 
 
62 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 all got well bespattered, females and all. The 
 mob were exceedingly cowardly ; threw, and 
 then i-nn. Tu-murrow I am to lecture again at 
 2 P. M., if the}^ do not shut tlie huuse — prob- 
 ably they may. One thing I have to comfort 
 me iu all these untoward events. I have a 
 room where I can be alone — my Bible and 
 communion with God. I had a sweet season 
 to-day in remembering all my dear friends; 
 the dear brethren with whom I used to be 
 associated ; those that are ])leading the cause 
 of tlie poor and needy ; and those engaged in 
 missions and revivals, at the Throne of Grace. 
 It seemed as though my heart communed 
 freely with the Saviour." 
 
 " Mansfield, ^th. 
 " As I anticipated tlie house was shut against 
 me. When I arrived here I took from the 
 ofrice my dear father's letter, and your addi- 
 tion, with a bound of joy. It is agreed that I 
 deliver a course of lectures here in the Congre- 
 gational house next week. We shall probably 
 have a mob to iielp us on. You ask in one of 
 your lettei's, do I read Mr. Finney's Lectures? 
 I do, and am much pleased with them. Yes- 
 terday 1 read his last on Ciiristian perfection. 
 It c^ujmands my fullest assent. I feel that 
 the standard of holiness must be set higher in 
 
FAmr ANT> WOEKS. 63 
 
 the clmrchos, or soon thoy will be only a mass 
 of hypocrites, of dead ])ntridity. If the Lord 
 permit, I shall leave here for Putnam this day 
 week, and shall be with you the following 
 Wednesday or Thursday. May the Lord guide 
 us both and keep us in his love." 
 
 " Unionville, Mmj 'ilth. 
 " "Well, my dear, I am tlirough with another 
 week's work, and shall I tell yon what I liave 
 done ? I have lectured eight times, organized 
 one new society, and collected about one hun- 
 dred dollars. Next week I intend to collect 
 another hundred, and lecture only half as 
 many times. In regard to my coming home 
 to rest, I know how much you feel upon the 
 subject. Do not feel too much. I intend to 
 spend July and a part of August with you in 
 rest. But I am constant!}^ thinking of that 
 text, ' What thy hand findetb to do, do it with 
 thy might.' I think I could not leave the field 
 now without ffreat detriment to the cause. 
 Our State treasury is empty, it is even 'minus 
 $100 or $200. Funds must be raised or we 
 must shut up shop, retreat from the field, and 
 stop operations. With the blessing of the 
 Lord I hope to rai^^e a thousand dollars, at 
 least, before July. If I can, ought I not to do 
 it ? I know you will wish me to pursue that 
 
54: EDWAED WEED. 
 
 coni'se tlifit will inost promote the cause of 
 truth and righteousness. 
 
 " 28?"^. — ^The Sabbath is just i)assed. In 
 some respects it was a precious day, one, how- 
 ever, of toil and fatigue. Preached twice, and 
 afterward attended a prayer-meeting, and 
 spoke at some length. I am not at all satisfied 
 with myself, but I think it is becoming daily 
 more the prevailing feeling of my heart to do 
 all for the sake of my Saviour. I am glad 
 warm weather has come, for now I can make 
 the woods my closet, flee away and be alone. 
 I have had in this way some precious seasons 
 in reading the Scriptures. I long, however, 
 for a time to sit down and examine, at my lei- 
 sure, some subjects of great interest to me. I 
 am constantly thirsting for more knowledge." 
 
 " Jefferson, Sq:)^ 15th. 
 "My Dear Wife : — I embrace this first lei- 
 sure moment since I left you to write, and will 
 give you a short history of my labors the last 
 week. I have met with no accident since my 
 plunge in the mud on my first start, and 
 arrived the same evening at Ohio City, after a 
 hot and fatiguing ride. Staid with Brother 
 
 P over night, and the next day went to 
 
 Hudson. Spent the Sabbath there, had a 
 precious day ; preached but once, and spent 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 65 
 
 most of my time in reading the Scriptures and 
 in prayer. My mind has become mucli inter- 
 ested in studying the propliecies ; they help me 
 to understand the present signs of the times. 
 I have been reading tlie projjhecy of Daniel, 
 and think of coinineucing Isaiah, with the help 
 of such commentaries as I can find in my way. 
 From Hudson I went to Painesville, and at- 
 tended the anniversary of the Geauga Co. A. 
 S. Society. Spoke twice to large audiences, 
 made up of people from all parts of the county. 
 The next evening I lectured at Centreville. 
 Yesterday I was at Ashtabula, and lectured 
 twice. Shall do no more talking this week. 
 Collected about $00. This morning I met 
 Urother Allen at Ashtabula ; expect to see him 
 again at Austinburg, perhaps spend the Sab- 
 bath with him there. To-morrow I intend to 
 spend as a day of fasting and prayer. To-day, 
 from excessive labor, I feel remarkably stupid. 
 Most of the time I have enjoj'ed some commu- 
 nion with God, some genuine longings after 
 holiness. One thing I have been striving for 
 in particular is more holy boldness, less regard 
 for the opinions of men respecting my public 
 performances. I am"v\'ell — have felt more than 
 m.y usual vigor since I have been out this 
 time. Adieu, may the Lord bless and keep 
 you." 
 
66 EDWARD WEED. . • 
 
 " FoAN-LEK, Sqyt 20tk. 
 
 " My Beloved Wife : — I received your pr©. 
 ■cioiis epistle yesterday at AVarren. I suppose 
 you continue to have ' a feast of fat things' 
 served up to you daily at Oberlin. At Aiis- 
 tinburg I had a precious interview with Brother 
 Allan, and parted ^'ith him there, probably 
 for the last time. Saturda}'^ I found if I staid 
 at Austinburg I could not be alone. It was a 
 beautiful day, I mounted my horse, threw the 
 reins over his neck, and concluded to make his 
 back my closet. In this way I rode thirty 
 miles to Farmington, reading and praying 
 most of the way. It was a precious season. 
 
 " The Sabbath I spent at Farmington. 
 Preached and lectured — had an excellent time. 
 The Lord helped me. Put up with Brother 
 
 B . What a precious spirit is Sister B ! 
 
 It is a feast to the soul to meet with such a 
 great, warm heart, after being frozen to death 
 by coming in contact witli the cold wc^rld. I 
 
 am now at Brother B 's, in his snug, sweet 
 
 little study. Have been disappointed this 
 week about my appointments ; the man whom 
 I. depended upon to give them out was not 
 faithful, so I have for the last two days rested. 
 Shall, if the Lord will, get to work again to- 
 morrow. By work, I mean lecturing. I have 
 appointments now for ten days. I hope to bo 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 57 
 
 with you again week after next. Shall stay 
 but a few days, must then go south. 
 
 " 22d. — Yesterday I rode 25 miles, visited four 
 towns, and gave out aj^pointments for lectures. 
 Last evening spoke in this place to a large and 
 attentive audience. This morning I have had 
 a precious season in reading ray Bible. Have 
 just commenced reading the prophecy of 
 Isaiah." 
 
 " ISTeav ATP^E:^-s, JVov. 29th. 
 " My Beloved Wife : — Yesterday I received 
 your precious letter. It was heart-cheering. 
 Language cannot express the joy it imparts to 
 get a communication burning right from the 
 heart of one so dear to me. It imparts new 
 vificor to eno-ao'e in the toils and ills of life. 
 You seem to pine for a'quiet home, where we 
 may be shielded from the annoyances of the 
 world, and sit down to feast ourselves on truth 
 and the love of God. At fii-st view, this would 
 appear to be an innocent desire. But is it 
 really so ? Can the servants of God look for 
 ease or quiet in this world of wickedness and 
 revolt, where precious souls, multitudes upon 
 multitudes, are pressing down to hell ? and if 
 saved at all, must be saved by the instrumen- 
 tality of their fellow-men — and where systems 
 of iniquity, great and wide-spread, are daily 
 
58 KDWAKT) -WIOKD. 
 
 inijulpliiiif^ their millions. In such circnm 
 stances, ibr those whose souls arc lighted, who 
 have sworn fealty to t!ic kiiiij; of heaven, irirded 
 on the armor of righteousness, and enlisted to 
 fiijlit the good fiirht of faith, to turn aside after 
 their own ease, is treason to God and man, and 
 the incipient desires for it are the beginnings 
 of rebellion. Fainting, ' weariness in well do- 
 ing,' sluggishness, are the besetting sins of the 
 Christian, the most powerful temptation with 
 which the devil assaults the soul. Oh ! how 
 difficult to serve God with the whole heart. 
 Devote every energy to his work. Daily ' to 
 present our bodies, a living sacrifice.^ holy and 
 acceptable unto God.' 
 
 " Again, under what circumstances or where 
 are we to expect or find rest ? So far as tem- 
 poral things are concerned they cannot be re- 
 lied on for a moment. Mutability is written 
 upon them all. We gi'asp them — they are 
 gone. Every day's experience admonishes us 
 of the instability and emptiness of worldly 
 comforts. Lovejoy is gone ! But he has slain 
 more in his death than in his life. ' The Lord 
 reigneth, let the earth rejoice.' ' Judgment 
 shall return unto righteousness^ and the upright 
 in heart shall see it.' Precious promise ! It 
 is yea and amen. God hath declared it, and 
 he will fulfill it. The triumph of the wicked 
 
FAITH AND WOllKS. 59 
 
 is short. The Lord will lift uj3 himself like a 
 terrible one. He will take to himself his great 
 strength and rule. 
 
 "I leeture in this place (Cadiz) to-day. 
 Have an appointment in Bloomfield for Fri- 
 day. After that I must bend my way toward 
 Putnam. Shall be in Cambridge, if the Lord 
 will, next Wednesday. Ilo^je to see you to- 
 morrow week. Farewell." 
 
 " West Union, Jan. 2Qth, 1838. 
 "Dear Wife: — You ask wliy I have not 
 written before ? Simply because when we 
 separated I expected, almost to a' certainty, 
 that I should meet you at Ilipley, and was not 
 a little disappointed in not doing so. 1 was 
 there Tuesday, and should have written imme- 
 diately, but the ' Philanthropist' brought the 
 intelligence of the death of Mrs. Colb}'. Know- 
 ino; your intimacv with her, I concluded vou 
 had been detained about her dyiug-bed, and 
 would probablj' get away so as to meet me 
 here, or wait my return to the city. I got 
 here at noon ; t0(jk your letter from the office, 
 saw the post-mark, which told the whole story. 
 I am glad you got so pleasantlj^ and safely to 
 Columbus. I was afraid you would be weary 
 and alone, tossing from side to side in one of 
 those old go-carts. Upon the whole, I am 
 
60 EDWARD -NAH':!:!). 
 
 glad voii are l)ack a<rain at Oberlin, tliouirli it 
 is painful tor me to l)e so loiiff separated from 
 yoii. Since I left Cincinnati I have done a 
 great deal of labor, and have been very snc- 
 cessfnl in my agency. Have obtained 35 new 
 subscribers to the ' Philanthropist,' collected 
 about §120, and obtained pledges for about as 
 much more. I shall remain here about a 
 week, and write letters. 
 
 " Last Monday I was at Augusta, and had a 
 
 sweet, precious visit with Brother T . He 
 
 is in a most bappy frame of mind. The Lord 
 has done a great work for him — has brought 
 him into the fullness and power of the gospel. 
 Ellen was at home, was well, and desired her 
 love to you. The first week of my absence 
 was one of great enjoyment in God. I had 
 more opportunity for reading and meditation 
 than usual, and my thoughts were intensely 
 directed to the subject of faith. Yiews of it 
 were presented to my mind altogether more 
 impressive and clear than I ever had before ; 
 and a great variety of Scripture came before 
 my mind with a clearness and power never 
 before experienced. Another subject, to which 
 my mind has been drawn with great and abi- 
 ding interest, is the lesson that Ciirist taught 
 his disciples when he took a little child ana 
 set him in their midst. I believe the Holy 
 
I'Wri'II AND AVOKKS. fil 
 
 Spirit only can teach tlie triio meaning; of be- 
 ing converted and beconiinL!; like a little cliild; 
 and I have the l)ci>:innini;s of faith* that He 
 will teach me this in its fullness, notwithstand- 
 ing my waywardness. Blessed be God, he 
 has more patience than man. Ilis mercy is 
 high as heaven. I do believe I shall vet be 
 led in the way everlasting, and bronght into 
 the fullness of the gospel — though 1 am a most 
 dull scholar, •■ a fool^ and sloio of heart to 
 helieve? " 
 
 "Sardinia, Feb. Zd. 
 " It is just a week since I nuiiled my last to 
 yon. I have spent most of the intervening 
 
 time at Brother B 's. Went witli him last 
 
 Sabbath to Winchester, a little town about 12 
 miles distant Irom West Union. This plac3 is 
 about three miles from one of the camps. 
 Yesterday I lectured at Winchester, where 
 eighteen months ago they mobbed Brother 
 Hankin and myself, and compelled us to hold 
 our meeting in the woods — now no mobbing, 
 and the only meeting- house in the place was 
 freely opened. I have spent most of the time 
 
 in reading "Greek with Biother B , and in 
 
 writing letters. In this way my body has 
 rested, but my mind has not received the same 
 refreshment and streno-thenino- it would have 
 
63 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 done could I Lave been more alone. Oh ! the 
 blessedness of sweet silencii of mind and lone- 
 liness, where none but God is present. I am 
 more and more decided to leave my agenc}' as 
 Boon as possible consistent with the good of the 
 cause. Probably as soon as April next, at 
 least. There is a region of country in the 
 vicinity of the Ohio liiver, about 40 miles from 
 Portsmouth, occupied with furnaces and almost 
 destitute of the preached gospel. I have been 
 urgently requested to go there by the owners 
 of the furnaces. Tliey offer a salary of $600, a 
 good brick house and garden spot. It is a re- 
 tired place, where we might do good and get 
 good. I feel that I absolutely need three or 
 four years systematic study before I am ready 
 to ride as pilot amid the tempest-tossings of 
 the moral world. I expect to go from here to 
 llillsboro', thence to Chilicothe." 
 
 " Concord, Feb. lUh. 
 " ITere I am at the house of our good Brother 
 
 G . When I have written a little to you, I 
 
 must hasten on my way to Chilicothe, where I 
 
 hope to see our dear sister W . I suppose 
 
 you have fine sleii^hins: at O . The snow 
 
 is quite deep here, and the weather comfort- 
 ably cold : at least so much so, that after 
 riding any distance, and kissing the wind all 
 
FAITir AND WOUKS. C3 
 
 the way, my cheeks became beautifully red. 
 Last week I labored hard and successfully, 
 visited many of ni}' old friends, and had a 
 pleasant time. My health is uninterruptedly 
 gjuod. I tiiiiik it is jn'obable I shall go to New 
 York to attend the anniversaries. If so, I 
 
 shall go by tiie way of O , and be with 
 
 you sooner than the middle of April. This 
 
 will be determined on my return to Cincinnati, 
 
 " \^th. — I am now at Cliilicothe. Sister 
 
 W has really done an immense sight of 
 
 good here. Her school numbers seventy. The 
 mobocrats have not done threatening her yet. 
 She desires her love to you. Shall I ever stop 
 roving and have a ' quiet home' of my own, 
 and my family around me ? This much I can 
 say, ' the will of the Lord be done.' I am his 
 servant, and not my own. My success has 
 been pretty good the last week. I collected 
 $140, and got 15 or 20 new subscribers to the 
 ' Philanthropist.' Tours, with my whole heart. 
 
 " Twenty Mile Sta^d, Feh. '2,1th. 
 " My Drak Wife : — To-day at one o'clock 
 I left Cincinnati and got here about ' sun- 
 down. But you ask, which way are you go- 
 ing ? Not to O just yet. Am on my 
 
 way to Granville. Expect to spend three or 
 four weeks in Licking County, lecturing and 
 
64 TCnWARD AVKF.D. 
 
 preparing t.lie way for our anniversary. Hope 
 to get to Circleville by Saturday. Shall, if 
 Providence permit, spend three or four days 
 there, and after doing my work in Licking 
 County, bend my course homeward. Received 
 all your letters before leaving the city. The 
 last came in this morning's mail. They were 
 like oil to my bones. Yesterday I received 
 letters from Brethren Weld and Stanton, both 
 remonstrating against my leaving this field of 
 labor. If I know my own heart, I wish to do 
 just right, and am earnestly seeking of the 
 Lord direction. I am constantly afraid of 
 seeking my own ease and pereonal advance- 
 ment. It is so easy to be very conscientious 
 and benevolent in seeking our own. ' The 
 lieart is deceitful above all things, and despe- 
 rately wicked.' Oh ! how true. When I have 
 learned myself, so as not to be deceived by 
 myself, I shall feel I have made great attain- 
 ments. When in Cinciimati I bought the 
 ' Memoirs of Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher ;' they 
 were both eminent for pietv. Knew what it 
 was to be filled with the fullness of the gospel. 
 I have been much profited, and stimulated to 
 exertion, by reading the lives of these eminent 
 servants of God. 
 
 " You will wish to know what progress I 
 am making in spiritual things. Slow — very 
 
FAITtr AND \Vf)riKS. 65 
 
 slow. I ,1111 a (lull scliolar, a wuvwnrd cliild 
 I ftel sometiiiies to ciy out with tlie Apostle, 
 ' who shall deliver me from tiie body of this 
 death V Would that I could reply in the full- 
 neGS of faith, 'I thank Gtid, through Jesus 
 Christ my Lord.' " 
 
CnAPTER YII. 
 
 CALL TO MOUNT VERNON. PASTORAL lABORS. 
 
 In the spring of 1838 Mr. "Weed received a 
 call from the Free Presbyterian Ohurcli in 
 Mount Vernon, Knox Count}-, Oliio, to become 
 their pastor. Ai'ter mature deliberation, wheth- 
 er the voice of Providence was manifested in 
 this call, he resigned his anti-slavei'j agency, 
 and entered on his duties as past(,)r elect at 
 Mount Vernon, about the first oi' May of that 
 year, and in the November following was 
 ordained by the Central Congregational Asso- 
 ciation of Ohio, and the same day installed 
 ]>astor of the Free Church. With what spirit 
 he entered into this new field of labor, and 
 with wliat fidelity he continued going in and 
 out before his people for four years, we have 
 testimony from various sourcefj. Letters writ- 
 ten soon after l:;s arrival there express a deep 
 sense of his resj^onsibility, and his entire de- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 67 
 
 pendencc upon God and liis word, for wisdom 
 and strength to go forward. 
 
 " Mount Yeknon, May 'iOth, 1838. 
 
 " My Dear Wife : — Abont two hours since 
 I arrived here, after a tedious, wet journey. 
 Tiie roads probably have not been worse this 
 spring. Though I have been here so short a 
 time, I have engaged board of Bi'otlier McGib- 
 enj^, unpacked ni}' things, put up my books, 
 and am ready to go to work. 
 
 " I took a violent cold while on my journey ; 
 this together with nnich talking and visiting, 
 has almost used me up, I believe it rained 
 every moment while I w^as on the road from 
 Oberlin to Mansfield ; but notwithstanding the 
 dreariness above and beneath, I was enabled, 
 for the most part of the time, to let my heart 
 go out after God and his holiness. On the 
 Sabbath I preached at M with consider- 
 able liberty and happiness. On Monday at- 
 tended the monthly concert ; it was a good, 
 season. On Tuesday I went to the Richland 
 County xl. S. Society Anniversary. I was 
 enabled to speak with unusual freedom. Last 
 evening I lectured at Belleville on temperance. 
 And to-day I have travelled through the mud, 
 over the hills and through the creeks, to this 
 
OS • EDWARD WEED. 
 
 place; weary and half sick, I do not feel able 
 to fii)isli this letter. 
 
 " nth. — My health is mnch better this morn- 
 in«x, and I liave had a ]>recions time in stiKh''- 
 injj^ the Scrij)tures. Oh ! how sweet to bury 
 one's self up in the Word of Life ; to revel in 
 the truth of God. I trust the Lord will ])eniiit 
 me, for tiie present, to have much time for a 
 quiet, close, and systematic study of the Bible. 
 He knows full well that, in order to my being 
 an efficient and faithful minister of his, it is 
 absolutely necessary. I j'eel that I am but a 
 babe in Christ. I do, however, have some 
 lonjrino-s after the unadulterated milk of the 
 Word. I have commenced reading the Epistles 
 of Peter, ypeiit all the forenoon on the tirst 
 two chapters of the first Epistle. Had I time 
 and room I would transcribe the analysis which 
 I have completed of the fii'st chapter. My 
 Soul is filled with the precious views which 
 unfolded themselves to me as I went forward 
 with the work. I do not feel as though 1 had 
 yet attained unto the fullness of the blessing 
 of the gospel, but I think it is getting to be 
 the temper of my soul to follow hard after it. 
 I know I shall have yQur prayers, and I trust 
 those of that little, faithful band, who present 
 tiieir spiritual sacrifices at five in the morning. 
 The stated prayer-meeting of the church occurs 
 
FAn'H AND WOllKS. 69 
 
 this evening. Two weeks lV<jm next Scab])atli 
 we wish to have a couiniuiiiDii season. It will 
 be the Sabbath before the anti-slavery anni- 
 versary. We shall commence onr meetin^^ on 
 Friday night previons. I wish you would see 
 Brother Mahan and engage him to come on, so 
 as to be with us on that Sabbath and the Ibl- 
 lowing Monday. Adieu." 
 
 " Mount Vicrnon, May 17 th. 
 
 " My Dear Wife : — Brethren Drake and 
 Gibbs do not go to Oberlin this week, as I ex- 
 pected, but start early next Monday morning. 
 I shall have but little time to write, as this 
 afternoon we have a meeting of the session, 
 this evening a prayer-meeting, and my prepa- 
 rations for the Sabbath are not yet fully made. 
 I received your letter with joy, thank you a 
 thousand times for the deep interest you mani- 
 fest in my spiritual welfare; and rejoice, truly, 
 at the progress you are making in heavenly 
 things. I would not have your love to God 
 abated an iota, at the same time I would have 
 you possess grace sufficient to restrain the 
 natural ardor of your temperament from lead- 
 ing 3'ou to go beyond yom* strengtii. 
 
 " You will be anxious to know how I am 
 getting along in my pastctral duties. In the 
 tirst place, I feel like a little child. I know 
 
70 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 not how to go out or come in before my ])eo 
 pie. My constant ])ra\'er is, Lord^ Uach me. 
 On the Sabbath we liad a hirge congregation, 
 much larger in the afternoon than in the 
 morning. The spirit of the Lo)'d seemed to be 
 present. My own soul was more than usually 
 blessed ; I felt that you and that beloved band 
 were prajing for nie. I feel the need of your 
 lielp and think it of the greatest importance 
 you should be here. During the week I have 
 spent my forenoons in study. The Bible, tJte 
 £{ble, has received almost my exclusive atten- 
 tion. I have had precious feasts on the truth. 
 Can hardly bear to be turned aside to write a 
 letter. The afternoons I have devoted to visit- 
 ing, going from house to house, praying with 
 the brethren and sisters, and talking about the 
 great salvation. This, too, is blessed work. I 
 want you here to participate with me in it. 
 Here is a great field waving for the harvest, 
 with the help of God we can- gather it in. My 
 purpose IS to follow on to know the Lord. To 
 'seek first his kingdom and righteousness.' I 
 wish you to get here, if possible, by Saturday, 
 so as to be with us at our communion season. 
 
 " l^th. — Last evening we had a most pre- 
 cious prayer-meeting — a full attendance. The 
 Lord was manifestly with us. Great tender- 
 ness of feeling was evinced by the brethren 
 
FArrn and wokks. 71 
 
 and sisters — many wept, I am encouraged to 
 believe the Lord is about to come atnoni;^ us 
 and do his great wurk. I have been much 
 drawn out to pray that his word may te with 
 power. It is my prayer that I may experience 
 the very de2)ths of humility. Had a precious 
 season this morning in preparing for the pul- 
 pit. I trust the Lord will stand by me, and. 
 help me to preach his truth. Don't fail to see 
 that some ordained minister comes on, so as to 
 be with us on the Sabbath and administer the 
 sacrament. We shall commence our meeting 
 on Friday evening previous, on Saturday we 
 shall have preaching all day. Four or five 
 are to be added to the church. Farewell, may 
 the Lord be with and bless you." 
 
 Mr. Weed's love of the Scriptures, from his 
 conversion to his death, was a living, growing 
 principle. To the law and the testimony he 
 carried every new doctrine or belief that ar- 
 rested his attention, assured that the Holy 
 Spirit would guide him into all truth. This 
 was the secret of his uninterrupted, onward, 
 and upward course. In the critical explana- 
 tion of the Scriptures he had few superioi*s. 
 From this well-spring he drank living waters, 
 and from his own experience of the blessed re- 
 sults of searching the Scriptures he recom- 
 
T2 EDWAKD WEKD. 
 
 mended them to others. In a letter to a dear 
 friend he says, "I am deeply solicitous that 
 you should become thoro\ii;hly versed in the 
 Scriptures. They are a fountain of li^cl't, the 
 well spriui; from which the Christian must 
 drink and live; the medium through which 
 spiritual streiijz,'th and holiness are communi- 
 cated. Oh, the Bible! the Bible ! every day I 
 ])rize it more and more. Bead it, carefully 
 and prayerfully ; d"n't j)ass over a verse with- 
 out understandiuii; its true meaning. Neglect 
 no ])art vt' it, but remember that "all Scripture 
 is jirufitable," iSzc. See 2 Tim. iii. 16. 
 
 In the following letter to a dear younger 
 brother, now in the ministry, and who was at 
 the time it was Avritten pursuing his collegiate 
 studies, he advises him to spend, at least, the 
 first hour of every morning in a prayerful 
 study of the Bible. 
 
 "Mount Ykrnon, Jlat/ 17th, 1838. 
 
 " Deak Bkotukk T : — Although I have 
 
 but a few minutes to si)end in writing, I can- 
 not let them pass without addressing a few 
 lines to you. I feel the deepest interest in 
 your welfare, temporal and spiritual ; and am 
 exceedingly desirous that you should become 
 an eminent man of God — one whose mind 
 shall be thoroughly disciplined, whose head 
 
FAITir AND WORKS. 73 
 
 Will be filled with knowled<2;e, and whose licai-t 
 will be strengthened AV'ith every i'ighte<ni8 
 principle, and overflt)wing with love to God 
 and man. I desire this, 1st, that God may be 
 glorified and souls saved ; and 2d, that you 
 may be redeemed and receive the rewaid of 
 those who turn many to righteousness, 'shining 
 as tlie brightness of the firmament, and as the 
 stars for ever and ever.' I have not been 
 faithful to you ; have not labored and prayed 
 with you, as was my duty. Now let me say 
 to you, if you obtain the fullness of salvation, 
 you must seek God with all your heart. JSTot 
 for 3'our own happiness or greatness, but to he 
 jpure^ to he Tioly^ to he like Horn. I advise yon 
 to rise early, and spend, at least, the first hour 
 in reading the Scriptures and in prayer. Try 
 it^ you will find it will strengthen you for the 
 performance of every duty of the day. Spend 
 the last hour before retiring in self-examination 
 and prayer. Balance the books of good and 
 evil every night, and when you have leisure 
 write and tell me how you get along." 
 
 To a dear sister, who was engaged in teach- 
 ing, he addressed about the same time a letter 
 of like faithful, aftectionate interest. 
 
 " Dear Sister L : — How fast our days 
 
74 EDWAED -WEED. 
 
 fly ! Soon, very soon, we shall stand on tlie 
 Bliores of boundless eternity. I feel that my 
 days are hastening, that in a very little wliile 
 my account must be rendered. I cannot per- 
 suade myself that all my influence over your 
 mind has been good. This causes me pain. I 
 have desired your highest advancement in all 
 that is excellent. I long to see you a woman 
 who understands what it is to walk with, God. 
 To feel a calm and holy serenity of mind, to 
 get the victory over mere impulse, to be gov- 
 erned by strict principle. God has opened a 
 wide and beautiful path of usefulness for you 
 to walk in. He has strewed it with the rich 
 flowers of heaven, and lined it with the fniit 
 of paradise. Beware, lest through weakness 
 of heart, it be all in vain to you. You may, 
 you OUGHT, to walk on the high places of the 
 eai-th. A price is put into your hand to get 
 wisdom, 
 
 " ' watch, ajid fight, and pray, 
 1 he battle ne'er give o'er, 
 Renew it boldly, every day, 
 And help, divine, implore.' 
 
 " From your erring, but loving brother." 
 
 During his residence among this people he 
 wafi repeatedly visited with afllictions. In 
 June, 1839, that dear mother, who so tenderly 
 
FAn-II AND WORKS. 75 
 
 watched his infancy, and wlio had offered unto 
 God so many ])etitions tliat he mi_<>jht become a 
 faithfid minister of tlie gospel, was cal]e,d away 
 from earth-scenes to the company of the blessed 
 in heaven. 
 
 About eight months previous he had been to 
 visit her, and she being then in good liealth 
 was permitted to enjoy the consummation of 
 her long-cherished hopes of hearing him preach. 
 About a year after lier deatli his dear sister 
 Harriet, then just in the hopeful morning of 
 life, became a victim of the fell destroyer, 
 leaving her fiiends to mourn her early depart- 
 ure, tiiough they sorrowed not as those without 
 hope. At three different times his parental 
 hopes were laid in the dust; and his wife for 
 months, seemed to human view, to be hanging 
 upon the verge of the giave, though she was 
 afterwards so far restored to health as to be a 
 great assistance to him in his pastoral duties. 
 He loved his friends tenderly ; yet in all these 
 trials lie could with Christian resignation say, 
 "The Lord gave and the Lord hath taken 
 away, blessed be the name of the Lord." Let 
 him do to and toith me and mine as seemeth 
 him good. 
 
 In the fall of 1839 becoming deeply im- 
 pressed wn'th the necessity of a good school in 
 town, that would meet the circumstances of 
 
16 KDWARD WKi:i). 
 
 tlie daughters of the farmers in the surronnding 
 country, and otliers whose means were small, 
 Mr. and Mrs. Weed devised a plan for a school 
 "where each one could furnish her siiare of pro- 
 visions, perform her share of the necessary 
 lal)(.ir, and have divided e(pially among the 
 scholars the necessary money-outlays. This 
 school was eventually taken into their own 
 house, directly under their own care, they 
 having the responsibility of procuring suitable 
 teachers. And though it added mucii to their 
 care and lal)or, it succeeded admirably, and 
 they botii felt they were paid tenfold in the 
 good that was thus accomplished. Never lias 
 it been the privilege of those engaged in behalf 
 of education to witness a greater thii-st for 
 knowledge, or more rapid improvement, than 
 was manifested by the young women that be- 
 came members of this truly domestic boarding- 
 school, and many of them are now filling sta- 
 tions of usefulness. One writing from a mis- 
 sionary station, among the western Indians, to 
 her former teacher, says, " all that I am, or 
 can hope to do among this interesting people, 
 under God, I owe to you and that dear 
 school." 
 
CHAPTER YIII. 
 
 CALL TO PATERSON. TAKK8 A TOUE EAST. LETV 
 
 TERS. 
 
 In March, 1841, Mr. Weed received an in- 
 vitation from the Free Presbyterian Church in 
 Paterson, N. J., to visit them with a view to 
 becoming tiieir pastor. About the first of 
 Ma\', his strength being rather low from long- 
 continued labor, he took a tour East, partly to 
 recruit it and partly to visit this new field. 
 Letters written to his family and friends during 
 bis absence from home, express his unifurm 
 trust in God to direct him in all his ways; as 
 also his attachment to his people, and his re- 
 sponsibility in reference to them, and the pre- 
 cious souls in the surrounding country who 
 might be reached by his influence as a minister 
 of the gospel. 
 
 " Oberlin, May l%th, 1841. 
 " My Dear Wife and Sister E : — Be 
 
'J^S EDWARD WEED. 
 
 assured I think of 3-ou continually, your labors 
 and your responsibilities; and my continued 
 supplication is, that the wing of the Saviour's 
 presence, and the banner of his love, may be 
 over you. Tell the young ladies I do not fail 
 to remember them with ati'ectionate interest at 
 the mercy-seat. We found the roads very bad 
 between Yernon and Mansfield ; got set once, 
 and were obliged to get an ox-team to draw us 
 out of.the mud. I spent the Sabbath at Mans- 
 field, the Lord helped me to preach. Had a 
 most precious time. We had a quick and 
 pleasant ride to this place on Monday. All 
 things apjiear well. The Lord is here — pray 
 for tiiis people. We shall soon be on our way 
 to Cleveland. It is a beautiful, calm morning. 
 I expect Brother Ilornell will go on from here 
 to supply my place. He is an excellent bro- 
 ther, and you cannot but be happy in his society. 
 Be assured I shall sympathize with you and 
 feel your cares." 
 
 " Paterson, June Mh. 
 " My Dear Wife : — It is now four weeks 
 since 1 left home, and not a word have I heard 
 from you and the dear circle I left behind. I 
 feel the intensest desire to hear how m}' dear 
 charge are progressing. I have remembered 
 you all coutiuually iu niy prayers, and have 
 
FAITU AND WORKS. 79 
 
 with the utmost confidence committed you to 
 Ilim, the wing of whose power and love is 
 always over those who trust in Him, I have 
 felt to commit my way entirely unto Him. 
 As yet but little light has broken upon my 
 future course. What I shall do I wot not. 
 I preached here on the Sabbath with much 
 freedom and some unction. The Lord enabled 
 me to get out of self, and to sweetly trust 
 in his name. Here is a field of extended 
 usefulness, but a field in some respects discour- 
 aging, owing to the floating character of the 
 population. You know that a manufacturing 
 population is of necessity constantly changing. 
 As my feelings now are, I think I should pre- 
 fer our own Mount Yermon^ though my mind 
 is wholly undecided. I think it my dut}^ to 
 survey the field fully, and not decide until I 
 have examined the subject of change in all its 
 bearings. 
 
 '"'"June htJi. — Yesterday afternoon I spent in 
 visiting, called on many devoted Christians, 
 and was much refreshed. In the evening at- 
 tended a meeting of the "Washington Temper- 
 ance Society. This is the name given to socie- 
 ties formed by reformed drunkards ; great in- 
 terest is felt in this place now upon the subject. 
 Meetings are held weekly, in which men come 
 forward and relate their experience. To say 
 
80 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 the meeti'nrjs are intensely interesting is but 
 half the truth. ' Many liave forsaken their 
 cups, and have become respectable men. Oh ! 
 how many families are filled with joj and 
 blessing by this movement. The same reform 
 is spreading rapidly in the cities of New Tork, 
 Boston, Philadelphia, and Baltimore. 
 
 " Brother II , I suppose, is laboring 
 
 among our peo})le, doing good and getting 
 good. The Lord reward him an hundi-edfoid 
 fur his labor of love. I suppose jou and Ellen 
 are very happy together. If we leave, I know 
 not what will become of that school; I have 
 not, even in my own mind, been able to make 
 a satisfactory arrangement in reference to it. 
 
 Say to Brother T I shall write to him next 
 
 week." 
 
 " Belleville, June *lth. 
 "My Dear P : — I received your long- 
 expected letter this morning just betbre leav- 
 ing Paterson. It dissipated all my bad feel- 
 ings, and greatly refreshed my spirits. I was 
 rejoiced to hear that the Lord had been with 
 you (luring my absence, and blessed yon in 
 your family circle. The Lord be praised that 
 
 sister B has submitted her iieart to him. 
 
 I am glad to k-arn that tiio vouiig ladies are 
 faithfid, and making good improvement in 
 
FAITU AND WORKS. 81 
 
 their studies. I feci a deep interest iu thcni 
 £.11, and do not tui-get them in any of my pray- 
 ers. It is a deliglitful thought to mo, when I 
 pi'ay, that lie, to whom my petitions are ad- 
 dressed, is present, at the very moment I am 
 speaking, to all my dear friends, in great lov- 
 ing-kindness, providing for all their wants. 
 
 " I am still undecided as to what I shall do. 
 The field here is extensive, and very much 
 needs to be occupied by the right sort of men. 
 Were it not for my connection at Mount Ver- 
 non, I should decide at once to come. But 
 when I think of the dear people there, and in 
 the region around, the responsibility of my 
 circumstances presses .upon me* and my mind 
 falters as to duty. I feel that I am entirely 
 free from selfish considerations in reference to 
 this matter. It is my earnest desire and ex- 
 pectation to be directed by the Lord. Dear sis- 
 ter E , I am glad the Lord is blessing your 
 
 labors this summer, and giving you a pleasant 
 school. My tears flowed freely when I read 
 how the Lord was blessing our dear family 
 circle. Look to Him, he will regard the cry 
 of his little ones, and bless you abundantly. 
 
 Give my best love to Brother H . I trust 
 
 his labors are blessed, and lie is gaining favor 
 among the people." 
 
82 EDWAKU WEED. 
 
 " Patekson, June 29^A. 
 
 " Tour last letter came to hand last evening. 
 It was exceed in«jjly pleasant to iiear once more 
 from my dear wife, our large family circle, 
 and the dear people of my charge. Some of 
 your letters have been very dilatory, and I 
 perceive you have not received my last. If, 
 when I get home, it is decided I deserve a 
 scolding, I will pull oif my coat, sit down, and 
 take it patiently. If, after due examination, 
 you are found the defaulter, you will have to 
 scold yourself, for I am sure I shall be so glad 
 to see you I shall be entirely unqualified for 
 such a work. So you see you will have to be 
 executioner in either case. 
 
 " I had a very interesting visit at Stamford. 
 Found father well. Preached on the Sabbath 
 to crowded congregations, one-half of whom 
 were my own kindred, and who, of course, 
 heard with great interest. Next week (D. V.) 
 I expect to start on my return journey. Father 
 will go with me as far as Carthage and Water- 
 town. I hope to be home so as to preach on 
 the third Sabbath in July. To do so, I shall 
 have to be very industrious. I shall probably 
 not hear from you again by letter, but hope 
 soon to see you face to face. Farewell." 
 
 " Dear Sisteb E : — I thank you a hun- 
 
FAITH AM) WOKKS. 83 
 
 dred times for your short and affectionate epis- 
 tles to me during my absence. 'Tlie friend- 
 ship of kindred minds is like to that above.' I 
 have felt a deep solicitude for you and your 
 charge, and have been eiiabled to commend 
 you continually to the spec;ial care of our 
 • Heavenly Father. Since I have been here I 
 have been making a choice collection of min- 
 erals for the school, and shall also bring with 
 me some beautifid shells. I have been think- 
 ing over the matter as to the disposal of our 
 
 school, and have written to sister M that 
 
 I think she is the one to take charge of it. 
 Say to the young ladies that I remember them 
 in all my rambles, and do not cease to feel an 
 interest in the individual- Nveltare of each of 
 them. I trust they are all striving for con- 
 tinued improvement, have set their standard 
 high, and are diligently pressing towards it. 
 I would write them a separate epistle could I 
 command the time." 
 
 " Dear Brother ITornelx, : — I cannot ex- 
 press to you the gratitude I feel for your labors 
 of love among my dear people. The Great 
 Head of the Church will, undoubtedly, reward 
 you — abundantly reward you. "What an ex- 
 cellent service is His ! How rich the reward ! 
 How promptly paid ! I presume you daily 
 
84 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 feast on the biUKjuet of love ! I appreciate tlio 
 ditKculties under ^vlucll any one must labor 
 who is only sn])plying the place of pastor for a 
 short season. 1 know that in many respects it 
 must be a trying situation. But our compas- 
 sionate High ^^riest understands all these 
 things, and we may rest like a weaned child 
 on his bosom. I thank you, again and again, 
 for giving me the present state of the people. 
 It was just what I wanted to hear. My return 
 will not be delayed longer than Providence 
 seems to indicate it to be necessary. Be as- 
 sured I remember you in all my prayers. 
 
 " P. S. My mind, respecting a change in 
 my field of labor, is the same as when I last 
 wrote." 
 
 Mr. "Weed returned to his people, as he anti- 
 cipated, and remained until spring. The fol- 
 lowing letters were written to friends after his 
 return. 
 
 " Mount Ykknon, Oct. 19th. 
 
 "Deak Brother P- : — Perhaps, by this 
 
 time, y(^u are saying, Brother AV^eod has for- 
 gotten me. It is not so. A day does not pass 
 without my recalling you to mind. I cannot 
 say, however, that I remember you alioays in 
 my prayers ; but I do frequently. I have a 
 
FAITH AND WOliKH. 8l5 
 
 great deal to say to you, but have taken a half 
 sheet lest I should say too much. I rejoice to 
 hear that the Lord is blessing your labors at 
 Cantuu. Tiie path of duty is tlie path oi" ])eace 
 and success. You are already aware that 
 I took a tour East last spring. My health 
 seemed to demand it. Travel, change of cli- 
 mate, and circumstances seemed to invigorate 
 me; my health gradually improved, and now 
 I feel quite restored. Since I saw you, the 
 Lord has dealt bountifully with my soul, and 
 led me on in the way of salvation. While 
 East, he kept me almost constantly in a state 
 of peace, and enabled me to j^reach without 
 the fear of man, or love for his applause before 
 my eyes. Since my return the Lord has en- 
 abled me to preach with nioi-e unction and 
 effect than hitherto. Our people are begin- 
 ning to feel that they must be lioly. I have 
 recently preached nine sermons on the subject 
 of sanctitication. As far as I know, nearly all 
 my church have acquiesced in the view of the 
 subject presented. We are expecting to com- 
 mence a protracted meeting next Sabbath. 
 Professor M and Father K are ex- 
 pected to conduct it. Will you and your 
 church pray for us? We liad a very inter- 
 esting meeting of Association at Hartford. 
 Brethren Brown and Dresser were ordained. 
 
S6 EDVVAltU -VVJiEJJ. 
 
 Brother Brown is settled over the church at 
 
 II ; Brother M has removed to 
 
 O ; and Brotlier Cmnmini;"s is expected 
 
 every day tu Uike his station at Fredericktuwn. 
 I am i^hid vuii have Brother Ilussell as a co- 
 worker at Alassilon. Much love to Sister 
 
 P . Wife is not well. AVrite and let me 
 
 know how you are prospering." 
 
 " Mount Yernon, Dec. 27th. 
 
 " Dear Brother B : — Your letter was 
 
 duly received, and I am heartily sorry it is out 
 of my power to comply with your re(|uest. 
 The ill-health of Mrs. Weed will prevent my 
 leaving home for any length of time. She has 
 been confined to her room eleven weeks, and 
 is not able to sit up at present. I do hope to 
 be able to visit you before going East. I iiave 
 a strung desire to preach the gospel at Balti- 
 more, but whether the Lord will permit me to 
 do so I cannot tell. Love -to your wife and 
 daughter." 
 
 " Mount Yernon, Feh., 1842. 
 
 " Dear Brother B : — Your kind letter 
 
 ought to have been answered ere this. But it 
 found me in peculiar circumstances. My fam- 
 ily sick and helpless ; myself engaged in a 
 colonization and abolition discussion wuth Kev. 
 
 I 
 
FAITH AND WOliKd. 87 
 
 Mr. "W" , of Muskingum County, wliicb 
 
 closed last evening. Every position he took 
 was entirely southern. Our meetings were 
 held in the Methodist Episcopal cliurcli. Wo 
 discussed the subject eight evenings and one 
 afternoon. The friends of the anti-slavery 
 cause feel that a good impression has been 
 made. Some have been converted and others 
 convicted. Everybody is discussing it. Kow 
 about holding a protracted meeting in your 
 place, I desire very much to comply with your 
 request, but at present my way is hedged up. 
 Mrs. Weed is in a perfectly helpless state; 
 has been confined now for four mouths ; until 
 she is better -I cannot leave her. It would 
 afford me great satisfaction to spend a few 
 weeks in your place, and I am determined to 
 do 80, if Providence permit." 
 
CHAPTER IX. 
 
 LEAVES MOUNT VERNON AND GOES TO PATEKSON. 
 LEITERS. 
 
 Afi'er Mr. "Weed's return from his eastern 
 tour a correspondence was continued between 
 liini and the Patersou church, which resulted 
 in his leaving Mount Vernon and removing 
 to Patersou in May, 1842. 
 
 His labors as a ])astor had been f erj ac- 
 ceptable to his church and congregation, and 
 they consented to his removal from them at 
 his own re(juest and because he believed, all 
 things considered, he might be more useful in 
 an eastern location, while the work among 
 them might be equally well or better acccom- 
 ])lished by his successor. The following tes- 
 timony of his people, when he left them, was 
 not only placed upon the church records, but 
 was engraven with affectionate remembrance 
 upon many hearts : 
 
 '' It has pleased Almighty God to call from 
 
FAITH AUD WORKS. 89 
 
 among us our beloved pastor, llcv. Edward 
 Weed, to labor in another part of Lis vine- 
 yard, lie has, for the space of four years, 
 i:;one in and out among us; breaking unto us 
 the bread of life, and leeding us with the pure 
 manna from heaven. His labors of love 
 among us have been greatly blessed of our 
 Heavenly Father. Unto many of us who had 
 hitherto sat in darkness, a great light has 
 sprung up ; so that, having once been blind, 
 we now see ; having been deaf, we now hear ; 
 liaving been dumb, we now speak ; and liaving 
 been without hope, tlirougii our J^ord Jesus 
 Christ, we now have in him the hope of ever- 
 lasting life. During tlie four years he has 
 labored among us, he lias not only been in- 
 strumental in building up this church, by the 
 addition of about one hiuulretl and thirty 
 members, but luis also been tiie means, under 
 God, of forming two other churches, one at 
 Fredericktown, and one in Liberty township, 
 which churches are now jointly supporting a 
 minister. We commend him to the favor and 
 love of God's people everywhere ; and where- 
 soever he may be called to labor in Christ's 
 vineyard, our prayers shall accompany him. 
 And, until we shall all be assembled before 
 the bar of God, to be judged of Ilim whose 
 will is supreme and whose judgment is im- 
 
90 EDWAKD AVEED. 
 
 mutable, we commend liim to the grace of 
 our Lord Jesus Christ." 
 
 His successor, Eev. M. E. Stricley, writes 
 of him : 
 
 " Brother Weed's pastoral labors will long 
 be remembered by the church, and will not 
 soon be forgotten by many who never united 
 with the church. His labor in the care and 
 instruction of the converts, is abundantly 
 manifest in the numerous lectures, Bible- 
 classes, and special prayer-meetings he insti- 
 tuted. The exertions of this faithful brother 
 are seen to have been extended to other 
 places than Mou)it Vernon. Scarcely a village 
 is to be found in our vicinity where he has 
 not been engaged in labors of love, and in all 
 these places he is still remembered with 
 warm afiection. 
 
 " The Anti-slavery cause owes much of its 
 success in this county to his untiring exertions. 
 Nor in this town is his influence to be measured 
 simply by his preaching. It is felt in the 
 schools he established, in the Temperance and 
 Anti-slavery lectures he gave, and above all, 
 in the genial, sunny and sanctifying power of 
 his life and deportment, as a man, a Christian, 
 and a minister." 
 
 Mr. Weed, called, as he believed, by the 
 providence of God, thus left one church, in 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 91 
 
 whose hearts he was cherished with atFection- 
 * ate remembrance, and toward wliom liis 
 thoughts ever turned until life ceased to flow, 
 with the interest of a father toward the child- 
 ren of his love, to find his home with another 
 people, who received him with the greatest 
 unanimity and confidence. 
 
 The precarious state in which Mrs. "Weed's 
 health had been for some months rendered 
 their journey one that was anticipated with 
 some anxiety ; but his letters record only 
 mercies and thanksgiving. 
 
 " Mexico, May 1th, 1842: 
 " Dear Brother : — We got to Cleveland in. 
 good season and in perfect safety. Found a 
 boat in port ready to go out in a few hours. 
 We had the stage drive down and land us on 
 board. We arrived at Buffalo the next day, 
 about four P. M. Stayed at the Mansion 
 House over night, and the next morning at 
 nine o'clock took the cars for Niagara. Ar- 
 rived there about eleven, and found another 
 train waiting to take us to Lewiston, where 
 was the steamer St. Lawrence ready to start 
 for Oswef^o precisely at twelve. At the ap- 
 pointed time we found ourselves on board, 
 and soon the noble steamer was proudly and 
 Bwiftly moving on its way. The next morn- 
 
92 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 iiig, at three o'clock, we were safely landed at 
 Oswego, and at lialt'-past live we took stage, 
 and at eight we arrived at Father Mathew's, 
 amid the greetings of friends, tears of joy and 
 "rratitnde. Our whole journcv was exceed- 
 ingly pro!^perous, and with tlie exception of 
 one day, the weather delightful. "I expect to 
 leave here Monday morning early for New 
 York." 
 
 While Mr. Weed went on to Taterson to 
 engage in his duties there, Mrs. Weed re- 
 mained for a few months at her father's, hoping 
 by change of air, quiet, and relief, for a sea- 
 son, from the responsibilities of her station, 
 her wasted strength might be in a measure 
 restored, and some three months intervened 
 
 before she joined her husband at P . 
 
 His letters in the meantime give us a history 
 of his early labors in P . 
 
 " Paterson, May 27 th. 
 
 " Dear Brothers T and C , and 
 
 SrsTER h : — 1 have just received letters 
 
 from Phebe and Father. P writes me 
 
 that her limb is still swollen and the joint stiff; 
 in this respect she is no better. She, with 
 J , are at Mexicoville, happy and content- 
 ed. Father writes that he is well. The people 
 
FAITir AND WORKS. 93 
 
 here received me witli great liarmony and 
 affection. 1 have preached for tlieni twoSab- 
 batlis. Our congregations are good ; with 
 the help of God 1 liope to he useful. They 
 have hired for nie a very })]easant liouse, 
 located convenient to the church. Let me 
 say to you all, Study yourselves, seek to know 
 Got!. Leain to deny self. If you would do 
 good, be approved of God and tilled with 
 peace ; you must learn to bring your souls in 
 full subjection to the truth. "Watch and pray, 
 and may the Lord bless you all." 
 
 « May ^Oth. 
 
 "My Dear Wife: — ^Your well-lilled but 
 dilatory letter reached me last Fiiday. That 
 its perusal gratified me exceedingly, I need 
 not say. 1 began to be a little impatient be- 
 fore its arrival, notwithstanding my strong 
 resolutions to the contrary. I am really happy 
 in knowing that you have such kind attention, 
 and that everything moves forward so sweetly, 
 but am sorry to learn that yom- limb dues not 
 improve. I have not yet consulted any phy- 
 sician, but will before I close this letter. 
 Here I am in my own room. I like our house 
 and its location better and better. 
 
 " 316'^. — I have visited some to-day, attended 
 a funeral, and this evening preached a pre- 
 
1)4 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 paratory lecture. Our communion season 
 occurs the first SaLLatli of every month. 
 !Next Sabbath is the time for it. I think you 
 will like this peojjle. Here I am all alone 
 in this large house. Don't you pity me? 
 "Well, I am contented and happy. 
 
 '■'■June Qth. — Another Sabbath has passed. 
 It was our communion season, and a precious 
 day to m}^ soul. Tliere are some praying 
 brethren and sisters in this cliurch. It is a 
 trying time with them now ; many of them 
 are entirely out of work, money scarce, and 
 prospects gloomy. But the Lord reigns, and 
 I believe he has much people yet in this place 
 to be brought into his kingdom. My visit to 
 Boston was very agreeable, with one abate- 
 ment, I was not able to get about much, 1 was 
 so lame. Brethren Cochrane, Parsons and 
 Cole were my companions on my journey. I 
 saw Brother Russel and his wife, and Brother 
 Stanton. Had a sweet and precious interview 
 with them. I conferred this morning witli 
 
 Dr. B , of this place, in reference to your 
 
 case. He advises blistering, provided your 
 general health is good. 
 
 " June l^th. 
 " Since we parted I have often wished to 
 see you, but never more than to-day. The 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 95 
 
 Lord bas greatly blessed me, and assisted 
 me in preaching his word. He has been 
 visibly manifest in our assemblies. The 
 tboiiglitful, solemn countenance, the strict at- 
 tention and tearliilr eye, all have testified to 
 bis felt presence. O, bow blessed the privi- 
 lege, to preach the gospel ! My soul feeds 
 upon the truth, and delights itself in God. I 
 begin to understand David when he said, 
 " IIow love I thy law : it is my meditation all 
 the day." Still it seems to me I have only 
 been eating a few of the crumbs of my mas- 
 ter's table ; but, if the crumbs are so sweet, 
 how delightful will be the full spread board ! 
 How much good it would have done me to 
 have partaken of the heavenly manna to-day 
 with you. It is now ten, P. M. I have 
 attended one funeral, preached three times, 
 addressed the colored Sabbath-school, at- 
 tended the evening prayer-meeting, and feel 
 this moment as vigorous as when I awoke this 
 morning. "They that wait upon the Lord 
 shall renew their strength. They shall mount 
 up with wings as eagles; they shall run and 
 not be weary, walk and not faint." My 
 health and appetite are good. As I came 
 home from my third meeting, and arose fi'oni 
 kneeling in thanksgiving to God, I looked 
 around upon my empty house, and felt that I 
 
96 , EDWARD WEED. 
 
 could not pillow my head until I had given 
 vent to nij feelings in a few lines to you. 
 Perhaps I have thought of y<»u more to-day, 
 on account of a dream which I had last night. 
 I thought, with my consent, you had married 
 another. When I went to speak to yon after 
 the ceremony you was so agitated you could not 
 answer me. All at once, the extent of my loss 
 hurst u})on me. I saw you doomed to spend 
 the remainder of your days in misery, and I 
 to he desolate. My distress was so great I 
 awoke. The soft light of a heautiful Sahhath 
 morning was pouring its rays through my 
 "window ; how my heart leaped to find that it 
 was a dream ! I3ut I thought it was to remind 
 me that I was mariied to my Savi(Mir, and I 
 must beware how I wedded him to others, and 
 forgot my own espousals. 
 
 " ISth. — This morning I awoke early, put 
 my room in order, and have worked al)Out an 
 houi- in my garden. I feel very well after the 
 labors of yesterday. I am becoming more 
 and more interested in our congregation. 
 Iliere are many choice spirits among the 
 sisters of the church. It would do you good 
 to hear them pray in our conference and 
 prayer-meetings. It rests my bod}'^ and re- 
 freshes mj soul to go into our prayer-meetings. 
 Yesterday was a precious day to all our people. 
 
FAirn AND WORKS. 97 
 
 It is, liowever, a time of severe trial. So many 
 of the factories are stopped on account of tho 
 money pressure that hundreds who depended 
 upon thfir daily lal)or for bread are thrown out 
 of employment. Pinching want stares them 
 in the face. I have been thinking the Lord 
 lias sent us here to teacli us to sympathize more 
 fully with the sorrows of our fellow men, to 
 teach us to " weep with those that weep." 
 We had a precious meeting of ministering 
 brethren at Newark last week. We have 
 decided to have a meeting of the kind every 
 month, also a conference of the churches. 
 Sister P desires love to you. Remem- 
 ber my love to father, mother, and other 
 m.embers of the family. I was much refreslied 
 by your last letter. Here I have been for the 
 last six weeks living alone, with the exception 
 of taking my meals abroad ; but you know 
 when I am with my books and about my 
 duty I am at home and happy." 
 
 "Pateeson, July V^th. 
 " Last week was a season of deep interest 
 to me. We had a series of meetings in 
 New York, at which some nine or ten other 
 ministers were present, who harmonized in 
 our views of sanctiiication, and seemed to 
 be full of the spirit. 
 
98 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 " On Wednesday we had a very interesting 
 church conference meeting, in Br. C.'s church. 
 The object of this meeting was for brethren 
 and sisters of ditierent churches, to meet to- 
 gether, and exchange views and feelings, for 
 the purpose of promoting personal holiness. 
 A spirit of freedom prevailed, and the pre- 
 sence of the Lord was very manifest. Most 
 of the time was occupied in the relation of 
 personal experience. Some were very instruc- 
 tive. You would have enjoyed the meeting 
 greatly. "We shall have (D. Y.) one at Newark, 
 the second day of August, and intend to keep 
 them up monthly, going around from one 
 church to another. Friday I came home. 
 Yesterday was my birth-day : it was the bless- 
 ed Sabbath. If I live to three score years and 
 ten — half of my life is spent — but there is very 
 little probability that I shall live to that age. 
 How short our time ; how rapidly are we 
 hastening to the judgment. What need we 
 have to do with our might, what our hands 
 tiiid to do. The Lord helped me to preach 
 yesterday. His word was w'ith some power. 
 Three or four in the evening arose to be 
 prayed for. I think the churches are coming 
 up, though it is a very unfavorable season of 
 the year. The days are excessively hot, and 
 every body very languid ; I have hardly energy 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 99 
 
 enough to hold my pen. Write me imme- 
 diately on the reception of this, and let mo 
 know when you will be in New York. The 
 Lord willing, I will meet you there." 
 
 " 2dt/i. — I received your letter this morning. 
 It made me both glad and sorry^ — glad that 
 you are happy in the midst of your dear rela- 
 tives, and sorry that I am to be disappointed 
 about your coming on next week. When you 
 come, I think you had better take the cars at 
 S., and if the Lord will, I will meet you at the 
 depot in Albany. I can meet you there with- 
 out spending, much time or money, both of 
 which, in these days, are very precious. If 
 you make any different arrangement, you. 
 must let me know. Give my warmest love 
 
 to O , P , and S and his wife. I 
 
 should love to see them dearly, had I time and 
 money to spare. There is no chance here for 
 J to go to school ; perhaps slie had bet- 
 ter go to Oberlin with 8 . Do however 
 
 about it just as you think best : we can teach 
 her as we have done." 
 
 As was anticipated, Mrs. Weed met her 
 husband at Albany, Aug. 9th, and was intro- 
 duced by him to their new charge. We have 
 her description of her arrival at Paterson, in 
 a letter written to her parents soon after, an 
 
100 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 extract of wliicli will be not inappropriately 
 inserted here : 
 
 " Paterson, Aifg. IGth, 1842. 
 "Dear, dear Parents, Brothers and Sis- 
 ters: — I know that you will rejoice to hear 
 that I have arrived safe at Paterson. The 
 goodness and mercy of a covenant-keeping 
 God was all around my pathway. I met my 
 dear husband, according to agreement, at Al- 
 bany — a happy meeting, I can assure you. 
 Wednesday morning, wq took breakfast with 
 
 E 's cousin, in New York ; that day we 
 
 went over to N , saw Brother and Sister 
 
 P , and attended one of those experience 
 
 meetings you have heard husband speak of. 
 It was a most excellent meeting. On Thurs- 
 day we came to B , and spent the night 
 
 with Brother W and family. Thursday 
 
 morning we came to Paterson — arrived about 
 two o'clock P. M. — found our house all fitted 
 up for our reception ; dinner on our own 
 table waiting for us, and some of the friends 
 ready to greet us. AVe ate dinner, and then the 
 sisters took me all over the house, and showed 
 me what they had done for me. My heart 
 melted and became liquid as water, in view of 
 it all. We had a little visit together, and then 
 we knelt and consecrated ourselves, our house, 
 
FAIXn AND WORKS. 101 
 
 ana all to tlic Lord. Soon tlie friends went 
 away, and we were left alone in our new abode. 
 Oil, to enjoy God in all these things ! I think I 
 do in some degree. I begin to love the dear 
 people very mncli ; they seem very warm- 
 hearted and afl'ectionate. I do not know how 
 many times I have been greeted with a kiss, 
 and ' You are welcome to Paterson, Sister 
 Weed. ' Yet, I cannot say that I love them as 
 well as I did the people atMt.Yernon, though 
 I think I shall w^hen I get acquainted with 
 them as well. I thank you a thousand times 
 for all 3^our kind care of me while I was with 
 you. If you will come and see me, and stay 
 as long, I will try to return it in some measure 
 to you. 
 
 " Your affectionate daughter and sister, 
 
 "Phebe." 
 
CHAPTER X. 
 
 UNITES TOE LABORS OF AN EVANGELIST WITH 
 THAT OF PASTOR. 
 
 Mr. "Wekd did not confine bis labors to bis 
 own cburcli, but was often invited, and fre- 
 quently engaged, in protracted meetings in 
 otber cburcbes ; tbus adding to bis labors as a 
 pastor tbose of an evangelist. He also labored 
 in behalf of anti slavery, temperance, and otber 
 reforms, delivering lectures, forming societies, 
 and writing articles for papers. Ilis letters, at 
 tbis date, speak of bis unremitting toil, in be- 
 half of truth and righteousness, as " blessed 
 work," on which his heart was set, and in 
 which he engaged with soul-absorbing interest. 
 
 " Paterson, Sq)t eth, 1842. 
 "Dear Brother: — Your kind letter came 
 to hand a few days since. I was rejoiced to 
 get it, for I had been able to frame no reason, 
 
FArni AND WOEKS. 103 
 
 satisfactory to my own mind, for your three 
 months' silence ; especially in view of your 
 earnest request at our parting for a frequent 
 correspondence, and the promptness and length 
 with which I had written. 
 
 "As to Paterson, I like ray situation well, 
 though it is not free from difficulties. The 
 people are very afiectionate and kind, and 
 seem to be much attached to us. Our congre- 
 gation is increasingl}'^ large and attentive. 
 Some are inquiring what they shall do to be 
 saved. Our Sabbath-school is ver}^ interesting, 
 the number usually in attendance is about 
 200. Our other meetings are well attended. 
 There is no active opposition against us, but 
 our people are poor, and the times are exceed- 
 ingly hard ; besides, the church are deeply in 
 debt for thefr house of worship. But, with 
 the blessing of God, we hope to surmount all 
 these obstacles. I am just beginning to get 
 acquainted in the region around. The Lord 
 has helped me to preach, and enabled me to 
 advance somewhat in the knowledge of his 
 truth and in subduing self. We have a house 
 very pleasantly located on Main street, about 
 fifty rods irom our church. Though I arrived 
 here late, I put in seeds, and have now a fine 
 garden. 
 
 " Oct. Sd. — Since 1 last wrote you I have 
 
lOi EDWARD WEED. 
 
 been to Xorth Stamford, Conn., and spent two 
 weeks, holding a protracted meeting with great 
 success. The Lord has poured out his Spirit in 
 great j^ower. Tiie whole region is moved. 
 Their meeting-house is filled every night to 
 overflowing. Last Friday evening, after ser- 
 mon, over a hundred came forward to be 
 
 prayed for. I left P and J there, 
 
 and came home on Saturday to i)reach on the 
 Sabbath for my own peo])le. I expect to re- 
 turn there again to-day. I cannot describe to 
 you my feelings as I stand there and preach 
 the everlasting gospel to my kindred, amid tiie 
 graves of my ancestors. The trutli takes hold 
 with wonderful power. The church had al- 
 most run down. I was told that the Sabbath 
 before I went there not more than thirty at- 
 tended public worship. Only two or three 
 young people belonged to the church ; nearly 
 all the dear youth were pushing on to death. 
 How changed the scene! Every member of 
 the choir, I believe, is now hoping in the Lord, 
 and nearly all the youth have expressed pub- 
 lid}' tlieir determination to serve him. Li my 
 own congregation the Lord is reviving his work. 
 Some, I trust, have been truly ctmverted ; 
 others are inquiring. There is a deep, tender 
 feeling among the members of the church, and 
 yesterday was a precious day in our sanctuary. 
 
FAITII AND WdKKsi. 105 
 
 I expect to see a great work licre tliis fall and 
 winter. A powerful revival is going forward 
 at Newark in Brother Parsons' cliurcli. Some 
 200 attend the inquiry meeting daily, and 
 there is a good stute of things in Brother 
 Cochran's church in New York. Brotlier Fin- 
 ney is expected to spend the winter witli them. 
 Tiie Holy Spirit seems to be hovering over 
 this region, and the cloud of mercy begins to 
 break. Praise the Lord, and pray for us. 
 Give my warmest love to the dear brethren 
 and sisters in the Lord, at Mount Vernon. 
 Tell them I have not forgotten them, but that 
 they live enshrined in my heart ; and as my 
 love increases for the Lord, it increases for 
 them. "Write often and give particulars. Dear 
 brother, I feel deep anxiety for your spiritual 
 welfare. I long to have Jesus Christ formed 
 wathin you, the hope of glory, that you may be 
 prepai'ed to preach his gospel in demonstration 
 of the Spirit, and with power." 
 
 " Whippany, Oct. 29^A. 
 " My Dear Wife :— My heart is full. The 
 Lord makes my spirit to mount up as on 
 eagles' wings. How blessed the employment 
 to preach the everlasting gospel ! Last night 
 we had a most precious, powerful meeting. 
 God manifested liimself in the great congrega- 
 
106 EDWAEl) wej:]). 
 
 tion, and girded liis unworthy worm with 
 strength. Some fifty took tlie anxious-seats. 
 I felt as tliougli the brethren and sisters in 
 Paterson were praying for me and tliis people. 
 I hope they will continue to do so. There is 
 yet a great work which remains to be done 
 here. The devil is not dead nor asleep. There 
 are many obstacles in the way. But in the 
 name of our God we will triumph over them 
 all. I feel that it is my duty to remain over 
 the Sabbath here ; and probably I shall stay the 
 most of next week, if not the whole. Remem- 
 ber, my dear, that great responsibility is rest- 
 ing upon you. Be much in pra^'er ; be active, 
 according to your strength; not beyond it; 
 visit as much as you can. I feel that you can 
 do almost as much good among the people as 
 I could. You have their confidence. Your 
 family will be small, hence you will have more 
 
 time. Brother P , I sujjpose, will go on 
 
 Monday, and I shall not see him again. Give 
 my warmest love to him. I am sorry he is 
 going without a new heart. Oh ! that he 
 would give himself to think on his ways, and 
 turn to the Lord. If you attend the meeting, 
 
 Monday evening, at Sister F 's, remember 
 
 me to the brethren and sisters, and say to 
 them I request an interest in their prayers for 
 myself and this people. I shall write a note 
 
KAITll AND WOUKS. lo7 
 
 to Brother C about the appointments. 
 
 Adieu." 
 
 " Bkooklyn, ]\''ov. '2\st. 
 
 " DEAJi IjKOTIIEK T — ■ — ■ AND SlSTER Tj : 
 
 — You are probably bc^^inning to think tliat 
 my few days are many weeks. When I hist 
 wrote you I had returned from North Stamford 
 to spend the Sabbath with my people at Pat- 
 erson. Monday I went back to N^orth Stam- 
 ford, and remained with them until Friday 
 morning. A great blessing attended my la- 
 bors there, li'rom letters recently received 
 from there I understand over one hundred are 
 hoping in the Lord. The work is still going 
 forward. Soon after my return I was called to 
 go and take the lead in a meeting, which Bro- 
 ther C had commenced in a village some 
 
 seventeen miles from Paterson. T went there 
 and spent ten days, and preached twenty times. 
 Some sixty souls professed submission to God. 
 I have been in this city about two weeks, 
 preaching evcrj' evening. During the tiirie 
 the church "has been revived, and there have 
 been some ten or twelve cases of conversion, 
 and about as many more inquiring. It is 
 much more difhcult to move the people in a 
 city than in a country village, there are so 
 many diverting influences, so many things to 
 
108 EDWAJiD WEED. 
 
 take up tlie attention. The work is evidently 
 deepening. The Lord is daily increasing my 
 faith in the means which he has appointed for 
 the salvation of men, and his iinchangeaT)le 
 purpose to bless them. For the last two 
 months I liaNe been away from my people 
 nmch of the time. The Lord willing, I shall 
 return to them this week, and shall begin to 
 cultivate my outi vineyard in good earnest. 
 My congregation is large and attentive, prayer- 
 meetings filled to overriowing. The Lord hsta 
 given me favor in the sight of the people in 
 tins region, and power to preach his word. 
 Do you ask what influence it has upon my 
 own mind 'i I think I never felt so indifferent 
 to the opinion of men, be it praise or dis])raise. 
 So that I can say it is a small thing to be judged 
 of man's judgment, while I have never felt so 
 deeply my accountability to God and so much 
 to appreciate his approbation. My dear bro- 
 ther and sister, do you wish to be perfectly 
 blessed and freed from the dominion of sin ? 
 Have but one master, the blessed Saviour ; 
 but one end, his glory. IIow soul-satisfying to 
 be able to say from the heart, 
 
 "' Lord, 'tis enough that thou art mine, 
 My God, my portion, and my all.' 
 
 " I earnestly desire that you should both be- 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. lO'J 
 
 come eminent servants of God ; polislied in- 
 struments in His hands ; vessels chosen by 
 Him unto honor, and meet for his glorious ser- 
 vice." 
 
 " Patekson, Dee. 16th. 
 
 " Dear Bbotheb B : — I was truly glad 
 
 to hear from you and your little church, and 
 the interests of religion in general in your re- 
 gion. O, how much ministers need to break 
 off their shackles, have but one Master, and 
 live by faith. The times here are exceedingly 
 hard, my own church is $4,500 in debt, and at 
 present it is almost impossible to raise our cur- 
 rent expenses. There is not a rich man in my 
 church ; almost all of them are laborers, who 
 depend upon their daily exertions for support. 
 For the last year nearly one-half of our j)0pu- 
 lation have been out of employ a great share 
 of the time. There are more than five hun- 
 dred men now in our town that cannot get a 
 stroke of work to do. I have seen more suf- 
 fering since I came here than in all my life 
 before. I am literally prcacldng the gospel to 
 the poor. I love the work. AVe are now en- 
 joying a precious revival. Brother M , 
 
 of O , is with us. The Lord has greatly 
 
 blessed my labors since my removal from the 
 "West. You speak of my being able, by the 
 
IIU " EmvAKD VVJiLf), 
 
 grace of God assisting me, to do great good as 
 an evangelist. I am well assured that in that 
 sphere I might be the instrmnent of great good. 
 Were I free from my present charge I would 
 enter n]»on that work at once. Ikir our times 
 and ways are nut in our own hands. AVhen 
 God, in his providence, shall nuike the way 
 clear for me to enter such a field, I trust I 
 shall not be a disobedient child. I feel like 
 being given up entirely to his guidance. 
 
 " Much love to Sister B and Cornelia. 
 
 In this, my wife joins me. Much love to all. 
 We shall alwaj'S be glad to hear from you.'' 
 
 " Hanover Neck, March Tth. 
 
 "Dear Wife: — There were so many things 
 
 on my mind before I left yesterday that I 
 
 came away and -forgot some that I ought to 
 
 have attended to. \st- I promised to select a 
 
 book for Mr. R 's son, who cut his foot so 
 
 badly. He, sitting there from da}' to day 
 alone, an interesting book would beguile his 
 hours much. Will you select one and carry it 
 
 to him? Sf?. I agreed to let Mr. M have 
 
 a book. Will you carry him ' Baxter's Call to 
 the Unconverted V Sd. There are several sis- 
 ters who ought to be visited. MtW. R , 
 
 an old lady, who is very ill ; Mrs. B — — , who 
 is also ill ; and Mrs. M , and Mrs. C . 
 
FAITH AMD WuUKa. Ill 
 
 "I bad a very tedious ride yesterday — arrived 
 here about sunset. Preached in the evening 
 to a very gtx)d and attentive audience. Felt 
 the presence of the Lord. Am expecting a 
 great work. The chui-ch seems to be some- 
 what })reiiared. 1 hope the dear bretliren and 
 sisters will pray for me. I am pleasantly situ- 
 ated and my health is good. 
 
 " 8^A. — ^Tliis is a beautiful morning. We had 
 verj' interesting meetings yesterday. There is 
 a good prospect before us — my health good and 
 strength firm. I shall send this to-day by Mrs. 
 
 H . Adieu." 
 
 " IIai^ovee, March 13fh. 
 
 " Dear Brothek: — The strongest desire for 
 your best good dwells in my heart. That you 
 may be a true man of God, emptied of self, 
 delivered from the dominion of the flesh, 
 stripped of all the shackles of the world and 
 the devil, and introduced into the full liberty 
 of the sons of God. I cannot bear the thought 
 that your gifts, talents and opportunities, which 
 are great blessings in themselves, should be 
 lost to tb.e world, and be turned into a bitter 
 curse to your own soul. Xo, I want to see 
 heaven in your heart; truth, with all its tran- 
 scendent loveliness and beauty, in your mind, 
 eternal glory in your eye, and your voice, like 
 the messenger of God heard over the hills and 
 
112 EbWAKl) "WKKD. 
 
 valleys of our beloved land, calling your fellow 
 men to tliat feast of love which heaven has 
 prepared for all hearts to receive. This, my 
 brother, is delightful work. How much better 
 than the drudgery of the political demagogue. 
 My heart is full. I would like to tell you what 
 the Lord is doing for my soul. I have not, 
 however, time nor room now ; I will only say 
 that at no period of my life has my mind been 
 so fully girded, and light and truth poured in 
 upon it in so large streams, and in such glorious 
 power. And at no time has my every effort 
 been crowned with such success. It is now 
 about ten months since I came to Paterson. 
 During that time ninety-eight have been added 
 to my church. Our Sabbath-school increased 
 from 180 to 245, and our congregation greatly 
 enlarged. Besides this, I am now holding the 
 iifth protracted meeting abroad, in each of 
 which a good work has been wrought, viz: — ■ 
 North Stamford and Long Eidge, Ct., Brook- 
 lyn, L. L, Whippany and Hanover Neck, 
 N. J. I am at the latter ])lace now. Have 
 been here a week ; expect to remain about four 
 days longer. Old and young are awakened. 
 Yestei-day, the Sabbath, the Lord was tj-uly in 
 our midst. About 40 went forward to the 
 anxious seat last evening — numbers are rejoic- 
 ing in hope. I feel in all this I am nothing. 
 
FAlTir A.NT) WOKKS. 113 
 
 God in his infinite mercy has poured his love 
 into my heart, and his truth into my mind, and 
 enables me to stand up amonjr my fellow men 
 and pour out what he has poured in. Soon my 
 voice will be hushed in death ; but the words 
 of his rich grace, uttered by it, will live and 
 exert blessed life-giving power down to the end 
 of time and through eternity. Precious thought! 
 Who can decline such a work as this, or tire 
 
 in its pei'forinance i Brother and sister IT • 
 
 are still with us ; both of tlieui think they have 
 given their hearts to the Lord, and have united 
 witii the church. They appear well. All the 
 family were in good health when I left home. 
 My own healtii remains firm. Give my love 
 
 to C . Tell him I am very thankful for his 
 
 letters — hope he will write often. Love also 
 
 to L . Get a large sheet and all write — • 
 
 tell me all about Mount Vernon. Remember 
 me aiFectionately to Brother Morgan ; tell him 
 his visit did me great good, that om- people 
 remember him with affectionate interest, and 
 that I had a most blessed time the first two 
 weeks in February in C(mnecticut. Some 
 seventy souls were converted." 
 
 " Paterson, 3/ay 23r7. 
 "Dear Brother : — Your letter was duly re- 
 ceived, and we were right glad to hear from 
 
114 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 you once more. I was rather amused at that 
 part of your letter wliere you speak of the hap- 
 piness it would afford you if your calling were 
 selected, and yourself fairly settled and estab- 
 lished in it. The feeling is natural and common, 
 but delusive. I have experienced it, and would 
 that I could impress upon your mind, with the 
 power it rests upon my own, that no change of 
 temporal relations, or external circumstances, 
 of themselves, can " impart the bliss we seek." 
 It is a portion of the vail which sin has thrown 
 over the human mind, that leads mankind, 
 almost universally, to look forward to some 
 mere outward change as a means of greatly 
 augmenting their happiness. Still it remains 
 a solemn fact, that they are all disappointed. 
 Those expecting bliss from such a source, will 
 invariably find the words of the poet emphati- 
 cally true — 
 
 " This life's a dream, an empty show.'' 
 
 There is only one resting place for man's soul 
 on earth, where he can look upon " All the 
 good and ill that chequers life," with cora- 
 ])lacency and fearless joy ; but one path, where 
 each successive step will be one of increased 
 light, glory and bliss. That resting place is 
 the bosom of the Lord Jesus Christ, attained by 
 a simple, implicit, child-like faith. Tiiat p:it,h 
 
FAITU AND WORKS. 115 
 
 is the patli of duty, the way of holiness. The 
 man who looks to the future and expects to be 
 greatly happy, and greatly useful, and greatly 
 successful, because he is united by a living 
 faith to God, and because he expects to wear 
 out in his service ; surely he will not be dis- 
 appointed. To him this life will not be " a 
 dream, an empty show," but he will find in it 
 joys substantial and sincere, and "glory be- 
 gun below." JNow in reference to a profession. 
 1 should rejoice to have you preach the gospel, 
 but not in your present state of mind. I feel 
 that you have talents and acquirements that, if 
 rightly directed, would enable you to act a 
 conspicuous part in this world's reformation. 
 But you need baptizing — consecrating to the 
 work — by the Holy Ghost. K^o man should 
 take this office to himself, but he who is called 
 of God. I think every man of the requisite 
 talents has in these days a common call ; such 
 as every sinner has to repentance and faith, 
 but there is a special call, a holy designation 
 to the work by God himself. ISTo man is fit to 
 preach the gospel who has not felt in a measure 
 in his spirit the triune God laying his hands 
 upon him, and setting him apart to the work, 
 and the Divine voice urging him onward to its 
 performance. Many have entered the sacred 
 ministry lightly, anc^are a curse to the church. 
 
116 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 In deciding your calling, you measurably decide 
 your destiny. Weigh the matter well. Look 
 to God earnestly. Have a single eye. 
 
 "All things thus far are moving on smoothly 
 in our congregation. Our influence is on the 
 increase, and I trust we are also increasing in 
 
 holiness. Where is L ? AVe have heard 
 
 that C is sick ; how is he ? — we wish nmch 
 
 to hear. Give my warmest love to him." 
 
 "Paterson, Aug. Wth. 
 " Dear Brother : — I have been for the last 
 few weeks feeling very anxious on your behalf. 
 You are now through college, and the next 
 thing is for you to choose a profession and 
 then pass through the requisite preparation. 
 I have been fearful lest you should decide 
 wrong, without sufficient reflection and humble, 
 fervent prayer. Lest feeling sliould govern 
 you more tlian reason and genuine love to God. 
 and num. I presume there are but two pro- 
 fessions between which your mind is vacillat- 
 ing : Divinity and Law. I have two objections 
 to your studying law : — Ist^ I am afraid if you 
 become a lawyer and a politician you will lose 
 your soul. Their temptations are great, and 
 not mqre than one in a hundred succeed in 
 resisting them. IIow rare to find a devoted, 
 thorough Christian amoMt them ; though there 
 
FAITH AND WOHKS. 117 
 
 are many professors. I know not how to 
 express my view of the condition of the mass 
 of these so well as by quoting from a poem 
 which I found in Coleridge — 
 
 ' God and the world, we worship both together, 
 Draw not our laws to Him, but his to ours, 
 
 Untrue to both, go prosperous in neither, 
 The imperfect will brings forth but barren flowers. 
 
 Unwise, as all distracted interests be, 
 
 Strangers to God, fools in humanity ; 
 
 Too good for great things, and too great for good, 
 
 While still, / dare not, waits upon, / would.' 
 
 This extract describes, I am fearful, the great 
 majority of professed Christians among lawyers 
 and politicians, and just what I fear you would 
 be should you choose the profession of law. 
 2c?, I think you can accomplish more good by 
 direct effort than you can by indirect. Hence 
 I would say, if your heart is set on doing 
 good, and the most good, give yourself directly 
 to the work. If you wish to be honored by 
 the President of the Universe, present yourself 
 to him, a most obedient subject, and he will 
 give you an appointment which shall be a 
 crown of everlasting honor. "Would you have 
 fame, heralded by the angels of God, through 
 
118 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 all the realms of glory, seek from his Son a fall 
 commission to preach his everlasting gospel, 
 and all that you wish or ask shall be more 
 than realized. I hope you will not fix upon 
 any plan until I see you." 
 
CHAPTER XI. 
 
 BEGGING TOUR — DEATH OF MKS. WEED CALL 
 
 TO BROOKLYN. 
 
 The clmrcli in P , to which Mr. Weed 
 
 ministered, was in many respects blessed and 
 prosperous ; hut they were constantly embar- 
 rassed and crippled by the heavy debt which 
 they had incuiTed in building. His earnest 
 desire to free them from this, prompted him to 
 leave them a few weeks, and solicit the aid of 
 other churches in their behalf. A brief jour- 
 nal kept at this period, and a few letters, give . 
 a short history of this tour, and of the en- 
 couragement that he received from abroad : 
 
 ''^Sept. 21, 1843. — Started on a begging tour. 
 Went to Nevv York city, and put up with S. 
 R. P . 
 
 " 22^. — Made arrangements to preach in the 
 congregations of Br^ren C , M and 
 
120 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 "23iZ. — Spent most of the day in preparing 
 a sermon. Went to Brooklyn and visited Br. 
 J . 
 
 " 2\th. — Preached three times from Ps. 
 cxxvi. (3 — ' lie that goeth fortli and weepeth, 
 bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come 
 again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves 
 
 with him.' Collected $7u in Brother C s' 
 
 church. 
 
 ''25M.— Called on Br. C , Br. W , 
 
 <kc. 
 
 " 26^.— Called on Br. L. T , and ob- 
 tained a donation of $50 in anti-slavery books, 
 
 for Paterson chnrch. Peturned to P , 
 
 and attended to a case of discipline in the 
 church. 
 
 "27«'/i. — Visited several families, and then 
 returned to New York and Brooklyn. Preached 
 in the evening for Br. J . 
 
 " 2S<'A. — AVent out to solicit for the church, 
 and obtained onh^ $0. 
 
 " Idth. — Spent the day in soliciting, and 
 obtained $29. 
 
 " o^Hh. — Spent the morning with Br. C , 
 
 and obtained $11 for church. Wrote to wife 
 and Br. C . 
 
 " Oct. 1st. — Preached in the First Free 
 Church of Brooklyn, from Ps. cxxvi. 6, and 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 121 
 
 obtained a subscription of $65.04 fur my 
 church. 
 
 " 'id. — Spent the morning with Br. W . 
 
 Wrote an article in reference to the promis- 
 cuous sitting of colored peojjle in churches, 
 
 and had a long conversation with Br. C 
 
 upon the subject. Visited Br. A. S , and 
 
 obtained some names to call upon for dona- 
 tions. 
 
 " Zrd. — Spent the morning in Brooklyn. 
 Head the last two chapters of 2d Cor., in 
 Greek, with Dr. Bloomlield's comments. 
 Went over to New York and obtained §26 
 for our church. Beturned to Paterson, and 
 in the evening attended a session meeting. 
 
 " \th. — Spent at home, making provision 
 for fuel, etc., and in the evening attended ses- 
 sion meeting. 
 
 " 5M. — Went to Is'ew York and returned to 
 
 P , and then prepared to leave home for 
 
 Providence, R. I. Took passage in the steamer 
 Massachusetts. Spent the evening in reading 
 the Greek Testament — read the first three 
 chapters of Gahitians. 
 
 '^ 6;'A.— Arrived at P • at 4 A. M. Called 
 
 on Dea C , and breakfasted with him. 
 
 Called on Brethren P — — and II— — , and 
 Dr. T . Spent the night at Dea. C 's. 
 
 " "itli. — Spent the naming in writing ; in 
 
122 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 P. M. called on Brother P , and with him 
 
 visited Eev. S. T. W . Spent the evening 
 
 with Dea. C . 
 
 " Sth. — Preached in the morning at High 
 
 Street Church ; P. M., for Br. W ; in tlie 
 
 evening attended Sabbath-school concert. 
 The day was exceedingly stormy. 
 
 " 9th. — Spent the day in soliciting — obtain- 
 ed $J:4. Preached in the evening to a solemn 
 and attentive audience, from Eccl. xii. 1 — 
 'Remember now thy Creator in the days of 
 thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor 
 the years draw nigh when thou shalt say, I 
 have no pleasure in them.' Felt the Lord 
 was good to my soul. 
 
 " 10^/i — Spent most of tlie day in soliciting 
 — obtained $21. Attended the Council for 
 dissolving the Pastoral Connection between 
 
 Brother P and the High Street Church. 
 
 In the evening, attended and spoke at tempe- 
 rance meeting." 
 
 "Providence, Oct. 9th, 1S43. 
 
 " My Dear Wife : — I had a very j)leasant 
 and speedy trip to this place. Found Brother 
 
 P here, and pretty well for him. He 
 
 preached his farewell sermon yesterday after- 
 noon. 
 
 " The people part w^ him with deep re- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 123 
 
 gret. As usual, for him, lie had obtained a 
 strong hold upon tlieir uflections. It will be 
 difficult for them to obtain another man who 
 will make his place good. I preached for 
 
 him in the morning, and for Mr. W in 
 
 the afternoon. What will be the result of mj 
 labors, I cannot tell. They are not in the 
 habit of taking up collections on the Sabbath 
 — I shall have to call upon individuals. The 
 prospect, at j)i'esent, is rather dull, but I am 
 not discouraged : shall do the best I can, and 
 leave the result with the Lord. My health is 
 very good : I suppose you are very feeble, 
 and, at times, sutfer great pain : you must 
 quiet yourself, and trust in the Lord. Be as- 
 sured I remember home and its sweet scenes. 
 I hope the work I have to do will soon be 
 accomplished, but how soon I cannot tell. 
 This begging business is any thing but plea- 
 sant or desirable in itself, but it is an admi- 
 rable discipline, and just what I need to 
 humble my pride. I trust you ju-ay for me. 
 I expect to go to Boston, Wednesday ; shall 
 probably remain there over the Sabbath ; if 
 you write immediately a letter will reach me 
 there. Direct to the care of Rev. Wm. P. 
 Kussel. I suppose, before this reaches you, 
 
 that sisters C , L and A , will have 
 
 left you. I shall r^ret their absence when I 
 
124 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 return, but, I suppose/! and L are 
 
 with you, and will be a comfort to you. Mj 
 warmest love to them." 
 
 " Dear Brothek : — I am sorry tliat it so 
 happened that I was necessarily absent from 
 home when you came. Should like to have 
 been thereto assist you in getting your school 
 under way, though I think you will have no 
 dilhculty. Perhaps you had better advertise. 
 Let me say, my dear brotlicr, that if you 
 Avould do much in the world, you must be a 
 close student and a deep thinker. Olf-hand 
 readiness and superficial sparkling will do for 
 a iirst impression ; but, that passed, the foun- 
 dation material will be discovered. If that is 
 pure gold, the first impression will only en- 
 hance its value ; but, if not, it will be con- 
 sidered an outside shining cover to a base 
 metal. I trust your mind is made up, to 
 apply yourself to study with great diligence. 
 Jjc sure and master every thing you i)ut your 
 hand to. I cannot say, now, wlien I shall be 
 
 liome. Mucli love to L . Please write in 
 
 wife's letter." 
 
 " Salem, Mass., Oct. 23^. 
 "My Dear Wiek : — I have got no farther 
 than this place, instead of Lowell, as I antici- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 125 
 
 patod, -when I lust wrote. Last week was, in 
 nuinj respects, an eventful week to me. I 
 was thrown amid nearly all the 'lions,' alias 
 wonders, of this Eastern World. My eyes 
 were constantly in use, and my bump of won- 
 der and admiration perceptibly enlarged. 
 
 " I shall not take time now to describe my 
 wanderings, but leave that until I get home, 
 for one of those family chats for which I am 
 so famous. I am now at one of the oldest 
 settlements of Xew England, the scene of the 
 ancient witchcraft. It is one of the most 
 quiet cities I ever visited, possessed of im- 
 mense wealth, accumulated almost entirely 
 by traffic upon the high seas. I preached yes- 
 terday in two difl'erent congregations. To-day 
 I shall commence my pastoral solicitation, 
 with what success the future will reveal. I 
 worked hard last week, and got only about 
 $55. You may be assured that it is hard 
 work to go into the midst of strangers to me 
 and my church, and present my cause. Still 
 I tind it admirable discipline, and well adapted 
 to improve my personal address. I shall not 
 reach Lowell until the latter part of this week* 
 of course shall not hear from you until then, 
 and must remain in ignorance and suspense, 
 whether you are sick or well, dead or alive. 
 This is trying, and were it not that I 
 
12G EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 Lad learned to commit all things into tlio 
 hands of our Ileavenly Father, I could not 
 endure it. My own health is good ; my cold 
 has in a great measure left me. I expect to 
 spend a day or two in this city and vicinity; 
 then visit Newburyport, and from there pro- 
 ceed to Lowell, where I expect to spend next 
 Sabbath, get your letter of last and also of 
 this week. AVhen I shall return home I can- 
 not tell. You cannot wish me home more 
 than I long to be there. But the Lord has 
 laid this sore travail upon me, and I must pass 
 through it. I have made up my mind long 
 since to decline no service, however disagree- 
 able it may be to my feelings, if it be a mani- 
 fest Christian duty. It is a blessed privilege 
 to take up our cross and follow Christ. Much 
 
 love to T , L , and little E . Keep 
 
 me advised of all the important things pass- 
 ing in our parish. Does Brother W — —keep 
 up the interest on the Sabbath ? Write to me 
 again at Lowell." 
 
 Before Mr. AYced had time to finish his 
 work of soliciting for his church, he was called 
 to attend the sick, and what proved to be the 
 dying bed of his wife. Her health had long 
 been feeble, and she survived the birtli of an 
 infant son only two weeks. Though her 
 
PAITn AJ^D WORKS. 127 
 
 death was sudden, she was not taken unawares. 
 In her last letter to her husband she says : 
 
 " Tlie Lord is my refuge and strength. I 
 have long since made this my abiding pldceP 
 And when told that it was the chill of death 
 that gathered upon her, "The cup my 
 Ileavenl}'- Father giveth me, shaH I not drink 
 it ? " was her submissive response. But in 
 this hour of heavy sorrow Mr. "Weed wept 
 not alone. Probably a pastor s wife was never 
 more beloved, or her death more regretted. 
 An extract from his diary at the time of this 
 affliction, shows that while he sorrowed as a 
 man, he recognized the hand that smote him, 
 and submitted like a Christian. 
 
 ''Dec Vltlh, 1843.— This has been the most 
 trying day of my life. I arose in the morn- 
 ing, waited on my dear sick wife ; found her 
 very feeble. Some time in the morning she 
 was attacked with a severe chill, accompanied 
 with a palpitation of the heart. We tried to 
 produce a re-action, but were unsuccessful. 
 Death, like a staunch murderer, marched right 
 on to his prey, and her happy spirit took its 
 departure precisely at eleven o'clock, P. M. 
 During her whole sickness not a doubt crossed 
 her peaceful breast. All was as calm and 
 
128 EDWAui) wki:t). 
 
 sweet as the siiiisliine of heaven. TVe were 
 married November 5th, 1836, a little more 
 than seven years since. Just ))revious to our 
 marriage she received a large baptism of the 
 Holy Spirit, the savor of wliich she never lost. 
 Her faith took a higher stand-j^oint, and I 
 never knew her to doubt her acceptance in 
 the belovecL The sting of death was taken 
 EAvaj and its terrors bauislied. She loved to 
 dwell upon the subject of dying. This blow 
 of Divine Providence has lacerated my whole 
 soul. 'The Lord gave, and the Lord hath 
 taken away ; blessed be the name of the 
 Lord.' 
 
 " ISth. — Tliis day has been spent in MTiting 
 letters to the friends of my departed wife, in- 
 forming them of her death, and in receiving 
 the visits and sympathies of dear friends who 
 liave couie in to condole with me. Sad and 
 joyful have the hours passed. 
 
 " 14:fh. — To-day I have deposited the remains 
 of my dear wife in the grave. The feelings of 
 my heart as I took the last look, and heard tiie 
 earth strike upon the cutlin, language cannot 
 express. But it is done, sealed by the eternal 
 iiat. There is no recalling the ])ast ; tears nor 
 supplications cainujt bring her back. Blessed 
 be God that it is so. Who would bring her 
 down again from the joys of heaven to the 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 129 
 
 pains of earth ? Rev. Samuel Cochran preacli- 
 ed her funeral sermon from Job i. 21, last 
 clause. Brother T. D. Wehl was present, and 
 gave a touching sketch of her eventful and 
 useful life. Tears flowed profusely in the great 
 congregation. 
 
 " Thou art gone to the grave, 
 . I will not deplore thee." ' 
 
 " Dec. 24:th. — During the past week have 
 made thirteen pastoral visits. To-day preached 
 . twice and attended Sabbath-school and con- 
 ference meeting. 
 
 " 25M. — Made five visits and attended 
 prayer-meeting at Brother McLaughlin's. Had 
 a precious meeting. 
 
 " 30th. — Preached at Newark three times to- 
 day. 
 
 " Jan. 1st., 18-i4. — Returned from K'ewark. 
 Met the young people at three P.M. After- 
 ward called on several families. Brother 
 AVm. Cochran preached for me in the evening 
 on the law. 
 
 '• 2d. — Spent the morning with Brother 
 
 C . Yisited in the afternoon. Brother 
 
 C preached in the evening. 
 
 " 3d. — Spent the day visiting. Preached in 
 the evening. 
 
130 EI)\VAi:l) WEKl). 
 
 " ith. — Brother Russel arrived, and preached 
 in tlio evenini;. Brother C left. 
 
 "7///.— A\<WaM.— Brother U preached 
 
 in A. M. P. M. comunuiion celebrated, and 
 
 Brothers Y and C had their children 
 
 baptized. In the evening we had a most 
 solemn and impressive meeting. 
 
 " St/i. — In the morning read Eph. iv. 25 to 
 V. 3, critically in Greek. Bead also a part 
 of Dr. Smith's lecture on the connection of the 
 nervous and muscular influence vt'ith the men- 
 tal and moral developments of man. Read 
 Ivames on the powers of the passions to diffuse 
 themselves to kindred subjects. Wrote to 
 Brother S , of Mount Yernon. 
 
 " 29th. — Went to Brooklyn to attend a meet- 
 jug of the First Free Church. Saw and 
 
 conversed with him. Found him a poor, 
 withered, blasted man. Poor fellow 1 Re- 
 turned home and found dear babe sick. Con- 
 cluded to let Mrs. C take it away to 
 
 nurse." 
 
 During the autumn of 1843, Mr. AYeed re- 
 ceived a call from several different churches to 
 become their pastor ; and though his church 
 
 in P unanimously opposed his leaving 
 
 them, there were some reasons ])resented to his 
 mind in the urgent invitation which he received 
 from the First Free Presbyterian Chui'ch of 
 
FAITH ANJ) WOUKS. 131 
 
 Jjrooldyn, tliut led liiin to decide to go tliere. 
 It was tlie o})iiioii of the leading men in tliat 
 cliurcli, that he was the only man ot" their ac- 
 quaintance who could build them up, alter the 
 sad cahunitj that had just then fallen upon them. 
 He was dismissed from the church in Pater- 
 son on 29th of January, 1844, and the same 
 day the Rev. AVm. P. Russel received an in- 
 vitation to take his place, which he accepted, 
 giving Mr. Weed the satisfaction that his be- 
 loved flock would not be left as sheep without 
 a shepherd, but that in this respect they were 
 very desirably provided for. 
 
CEAPTER XII. 
 
 REMOVES TO BROOKLYN. SECOND MARRIAGE. 
 
 FINISHES UIS LABORS IN BROOK Lm. 
 
 The 1st of February, 18i4, Mr. Weed re- 
 moved to Brooklyn, and commenced his labors 
 tliere in the First Free Presbyterian Church. 
 The June fullowini>; he was installed pastor of 
 the church to which he ministered by the Con- 
 gregational Association, of which he was a mem- 
 ber. Soon after his installation he wrote to a 
 friend : " Since you left, a part of the time my 
 health has been poor, but now I am well, both 
 in body and mind. The Lord is blessing my 
 soul, and pressing me on in his work. It 
 Bcems to me I have no desire to live but to 
 glorify God and do good to my fellow-men. 
 It is my continued and earnest prayer to be 
 filled with all his fullness. He is prospering 
 me in my labors, and giving me power over 
 the people. The Lord is filling me with ten- 
 
FAITH AJNJD WOUKS. 133 
 
 (leniess and love toward himself, toward his 
 friends, and the whole human race. Pray 
 much ; pray in the Holy Ghost. Pray for me, 
 yourself, and the church." In August, Mr, 
 Weed left his people for a few weeks to rest 
 and recruit himself. He wrote to his brother 
 soon after: 
 
 " POUGHKEEPSIE, Av(/. ISt/l, 1844. 
 
 " Dear Brothkr ; — I have concluded to 
 keep a little journal of my travels and send to 
 you. Of the incidents of our journey to the 
 boat you have a livino; copy in your own brain. 
 
 In due time the boat got underway. S 
 
 and myself stationed ourselves on the upper 
 deck, in a position to feast our eyes with all 
 the wonders of the city, rear landscapes, vil- 
 lages, &c., each with book in hand, so that be- 
 tween looking, talking, and reading, the hours 
 passed s\yiftly and sweetly by until we landed 
 at the Poughkeepsie duck, where we found 
 
 good Brother W with a carriage awaiting 
 
 our arrival. And soon, under his hospitable 
 roof, we wei'e made to feel as much at home as 
 in our own house. Seldom have I met with a 
 family who have so happy a facidty of making 
 their guests feel that they are entirely wel- 
 come. During the P. M., feeling fatigued, I 
 kept in-doors, and busied myself in reading 
 12 
 
134: KDWAJID WKED. 
 
 the ' Oberliii Evangelist,' containing (among 
 other things, uiy sermon and) 'Finney on 
 Sanctification.' My soul had a feast of fat 
 things. I lelt my whole heart lifting itself up 
 to the eternal throne, and crying out after per- 
 fect purity, that the image Divine might be 
 impressed upon my whole being. What bless-, 
 ing is there in the whole universe so great, so 
 glorious, as that of being in the moral likeness 
 of our God ? I have witnessed what wealth 
 and human applause can do for man, and I 
 feel, in my revj soul, that in their height and 
 depth, they are very vanity. But a pure 
 heart, a soul fashioned in the heavenly mould, 
 is an ' inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and 
 
 that fadetli not away.' After tea S and 
 
 myself went out into the village for a promenade. 
 
 You are aware that P lies on the east side 
 
 of the Hudson, on the slope of a hill, that 
 rises gradually from the river. Back of the 
 village, hill after hill, and range after range, 
 rise and spread themselves out in every va- 
 riety of form. The hand of cultivation has 
 smoothed and crowned their summits with 
 fruits and grain meet for the use of man. 
 "West of the Hudson, that rolls its wide and 
 beautiful waters at the foot of the town, rise 
 and spread out as far as the eye can reach, 
 all in a high state of cultivation ; other hills 
 
FAITH AND WUlUvy. 135 
 
 and ranges, seeminn:; to answer to those on 
 the east, hill to hill, and range to range, 
 like two nierrj choirs of youth, in health and 
 beauty, arranged ior the harmonious song, and 
 joyous dance. As we went forth, the sun had 
 just disappeared beyond the western range, 
 tinging by his departing rays tlie fleecy clouds 
 and eastern sunimits with gold. The evening 
 zephyrs seemed simultaneously to rise from 
 every hill and glen, loaded with the fragrance 
 of summer, and imparting their soothing and 
 invigorating power. We stood, gazed, ad- 
 mired, wept for joy, and exclaimed, If this be 
 the footstool of our Heavenly Father, what 
 must be his throne ! In a moment, in imagi- 
 nation, we w^ere carried to the heights of hea- 
 ven, and through these types below, seemed 
 to survey the glorious realities above. We 
 thought of mother, Phebe, Harriet, and other 
 dear departed friends, going forth amid the 
 beauties and sublimities of the paradise of 
 God — taking not their evening walks, for ' no 
 night is there? And again we shed tears of 
 gratitude and joy, and continued our walk, 
 dilating upon the wonderful and glorious pros- 
 pects of God's dear children. That we re- 
 turned to our lodgings edified and refreshed 
 you will readily believe. Sabbath morning 
 came ; I spent it in prayer, and contemplating 
 
136 EDWAUl) WEKI). 
 
 the great and precious promises made to be- 
 lievers, until my soul seemed to be winged. 
 Visited the SabI)atii-schoul, and addressed the 
 children. Preached in the jnurning, to a good- 
 sized audience, from the resoluti(jn of Joshua, 
 ' As for me and my house, we will serve the 
 Lord ;' in the afternoon, from ' The goodness 
 of God leadeth thee to repentance ;' and in 
 the evening, from ' Trust in tlie Lord and do 
 good.' During the whole day the heat was 
 excessively oppressive, but my strength held 
 out well, and I was enabled to speak with ease 
 and my usual power. It is now Monday. I 
 I arose early, and luid a most precious season 
 of prayer and studying the subject of sanctifi- 
 cation. My heart and my flesh cried out after 
 the living God. I feel more and more, my 
 dear brother, that I must be a holy man. That 
 I must honor my office as a minister of Christ. 
 I am determined to husband my time ; to use 
 every moment that I can command in pressing 
 my inquiries after truth. I see a beauty, glory, 
 and loveliness in truth that perfectly enamours 
 my soul. I can truly say, I rejoice over it 
 more than he that taketh great spoil. It is 
 now between ten and eleven A. M., and in tlie 
 course of an hour we shall be pursuing our 
 
 journey. Brother W and his wife will 
 
 accompany us to Troy. 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. Iu7 
 
 "(D. V.) you Hhull hear IVuin mc agtiia 
 anon." 
 
 " Packefhyat^ Aug. '2^0th. — Owing to our 
 state of healtli, \vc ct^ncluded at Schenectady 
 to take tlie canal packet, instead of jarring 
 along all niglit in the railroad cars. But in 
 doing so we made a most wretched exchange. 
 We found the boat crowded inside and out; 
 had hardly room to place our feet, much less 
 to sit down, all of us at a time. Tliey made 
 up no bertiis. S was u]) all night. I suc- 
 ceeded in getting a berth of one of the hands 
 of the boat. Tliey have just invited me to 
 preach on the boat ; if I can command the 
 time after that service, I will wj-ite more. 
 
 " ^\st. — Hotel Onsl'cmy. — Last evening we 
 stopped here and hired a carriage to go one a 
 few miles to visit a friend, who we found was 
 absent from home. We were much disap- 
 pointed ; but returned immediately here and 
 spent the night, and expect soon to be on our 
 way again. The Lord iiad some other woik 
 for us to do to-day, and before night we may 
 understand tlie cause of our disappointment. 
 We hope to be in Oswego Friday evening, and 
 spend the 25th, tlie Sabbath, in Buflalo. And 
 1 hope to return after my northern tour, {Deo 
 12* 
 
138 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 volente^ the 5tli or Gt.k of September to Whites- 
 town. But I must close. May the glory of 
 the Lord fill your heart." 
 
 Mr, AYeed returned to TVhitestown at the 
 time he anticipated, and the 9th of September 
 was united in marriage to Miss Porter, a 
 young lady who was an intimate friend of his 
 first wife before her marriage, and with whom 
 he became acquainted while she was, for a sea- 
 son, engaged in teaching in their boarding- 
 school in Mount Yernon. About the middle 
 of September he returned with his wife to 
 Brooklyn, and with strength renewed from the 
 relaxation he had enjoyed in his tour, he en- 
 gaged in his duties as a pastor. 
 
 Sometime later in the autumn he had an at- 
 tack of influenza, inducing a distressing cough, 
 which lasted some weeks; and for the first 
 time since he began to preach, he was obliged 
 on account of illness to employ some one to 
 supply his place in the pulpit. 
 
 In February, 1845, at the earnest solicita- 
 tion of the church at Long Ridge, Conn., he 
 spent a week or two in laboring in a protracted 
 meeting there. Though the presence of the 
 Lord was graciously manifest in this meeting, 
 it was not attended with the power that was 
 Been and felt in the one he labored in there 
 
FAITH AJSfD WORKS. 139 
 
 two years before. The result of his labors at 
 this time are mentioned in letters written dur- 
 ing the time of the meeting. 
 
 " Long Ridge, Feb. ^Zcl, 1S45. 
 " My Dp:ae Wifk : — It is Sabbath evening 
 between ten and eleven o'clock. I have 
 preached twice to-day, and attended a prayer- 
 meeting during the evening. Since I came 
 here I have preached eleven sermons. My 
 health is improving, my cough not so bad as 
 when I left home. As to the meeting, I will 
 state the difficulties and the favorable things. 
 The travelling has been exceedingly bad ever 
 since I have been here. Many of the people 
 are suffering under severe colds. One of the 
 most active, zealous men in the church, lies at 
 the point of death, and his family all sick with 
 the measles. In a neighboring parish, (North 
 Stamford,) they have a protracted meeting in 
 progress, Rev. Mr. B , of New York, assist- 
 ing, which takes away some of the lay help 
 expected at this meeting. There are not more 
 than three or four males that can take an ac- 
 tive part, consequently there are but few to 
 engage in efficient labor. Now the favorable 
 things. The Lord is with me, and enables me 
 to preach his word with imction and power. 
 The truth has evidently taken hold of the 
 
140 EDWARD WEKD. 
 
 chnrcli raid the impenitent. Every successive 
 meetiiii^ luis increased in numbers and interest 
 until to-drty, the severe rain has kept many at 
 liome. Our meetings were notwithstanding 
 exceedingly solemn and impressive. Some 
 are awakened, and three have told me that 
 their miiuls were fully made up to serve the 
 Lord. Others are more or less im{)ressed with 
 the truth. I expect to remain until Friday 
 morning, and then return home, unless there 
 should be special indications making it duty 
 to stay. I feel anxious to hear from you, and 
 more so to see you. I love my family ten- 
 derly, and the nearer my heart gets to the 
 Lord the more it clusters about- them. My 
 congregation also lies with weight upon my 
 
 heart. Pray for me. Give my love to C 
 
 and M , and little B ." 
 
 " Long Ridgk, Feb. ^e^fh. 
 " I have just received your very precious let- 
 ter. It did me great srood. Since the Sabbath 
 our meetings have been increasing in numbers 
 and interest. This evening we have had a full 
 assembly and very great solemnity. The Spirit 
 of the Lord was present, and a deep impression 
 was made. There is great reluctance to have me 
 leave at present. It seems to me now to be duty 
 to stay over the Sabbath, and follow up the 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 141 
 
 impression already made. My strength liulds 
 out. My cough is much better. This morn- 
 ing I had no coughing turn, and have not had 
 any during the day. I shall write to Brother 
 
 C about my staying. I may be home on 
 
 Saturday evening, and I may not until Friday 
 week. I have not time to tell you my experi- 
 ence since I have been here. I have had 
 some blessed seasons of communion with God, 
 and I rejoice that you enjoy so much peace. 
 Be assured you live in the innermost temple 
 of my heart. Love to dear little Benny." 
 
 After Mr. Weed's return to Brooklyn he 
 continued his unremitting labors in his own 
 parish until the first of May, a year and three 
 months from the time he came there ; when, 
 at his own request, he was dismissed from his 
 pastoral charge. lie was led to make this re- 
 quest from the evident manifestation of cold^ 
 ness and want of co-operation on the part of 
 some of the leading men, who at the time of 
 his leaving Paterson were the most earnest in 
 persuading him that this, of all others, was the 
 place for him to do good ; and he, of all others, 
 was the man to do it. The mass of the church 
 and congregation desired him to continue 
 among them as their pastor. Of these he 
 made the earnest request that for his sake thej 
 
142 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 would vote for his dismission. And on the 
 following Sabbath he preached his farewell 
 sernion. lie left amid the regrets of many, 
 who felt that they had been edified and built 
 up under his preaching, and others who, 
 through his instrumentality, had passed from 
 death to life, and were now rejoicing in hope 
 of the glory of God. 
 
CHAPTER Xni. 
 
 RETURN TO PATERSON LETTERS — TEMPERANCE. 
 
 The church in Paterson, who parted with 
 Mr. Weed when he went to Brooklyn, with 
 great reluctance, were now left without a min- 
 ister, in a very depressed state, and almost 
 ready to sell their church and give up their 
 organization. But they turned to Mr. TTeed 
 with new hope, unanimously soliciting liim 
 to become their pastor again. He accej^ted 
 their invitation, and after an absence of fifteen 
 months was happily settled again with his for- 
 mer charge. In a letter to a brother he speaks 
 of all these changes as from the good hand of 
 God. 
 
 "Pateeson, June Wth^ 1845. 
 
 " Dear Brother : — You have just cause to 
 complain of our neglect, until you hear of our 
 excuse. It is now almost three months since 
 
14i EDWAUn WEED. 
 
 we were at your liouse. It does not seem as 
 tlioui^li it could be so lon_<;. The older we 
 grow the more rapidly does time fly. Since 
 our return it has Leen one continued series of 
 revolutions with us. Our leaving Brooklyn 
 M-as sudden and unexpected to us, and brought 
 about by means entirely above us, and beyond 
 our control. The hand of the Lord, I doubt 
 not, has been in it all, guiding and directing 
 in his infinite wisdom and love. We are now 
 happily settled among my former people in 
 this place. The church was abiiost run down, 
 and just ready to give up the gliost, but my 
 coming among them has inspirited them again. 
 The congregation has at once filled up, and 
 M'hat is most and best of all, the Spirit of the 
 Lord seems to be among them. Some have 
 already been healed of their backslidings, and 
 the Spirit is moving upon others. My own 
 soul is greatly stirred up. The Lord is trying 
 to do a great work upon my heart, and if I do 
 not resist, it will be accomplished. I trust I 
 shall not. O, my brother, liow miwh it tneans 
 to 1)0 holy. To he dead to self^ to the world, 
 and fully alive to God. How vast the differ- 
 ence in being moved by the Sjiirit and grace 
 of God in all that we do, instead of the im- 
 pulses of our nature, and the dictates of our 
 own unaided understandings. In one word, to 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 145 
 
 he^crelij men of <irace, instead of natural men. 
 This is a subject that is at present most intense- 
 ly occupying my mind. I am searching the 
 Divine record to ascertain as clearly as possible 
 what are the influences of the Spirit, and tiieir 
 precise effects upon our natural faculties, and 
 jjowers, and actions, which all Chi-istians are 
 warranted in expecting and enjoying, and 
 without wliich they are not sons. I am per- 
 suaded here is a field of investigation, of great 
 practical importance, and which has never 
 been fnlly explored, since the Apostolic age. 
 A subject which the ministry and the church 
 must understand clearly and practically before 
 we can advance far be3"ond our present position. 
 What constitutes true spirituality is but little 
 understood by the mass of professed Christians. 
 But blessed be God, the attention of the min- 
 istry and intelligent laymen, is beginning to 
 be powerfull}' turned to this point. The har- 
 vest is ripening — the sickle will soon be thrust 
 in, and glorious sheaves of righteousness will 
 be reaped. I do not believe that (xod is about 
 to abandon this country to the devil. To give 
 it up to intemperance, licentiousness. Sabbath- 
 breaking, and oppression. No! the arm of his 
 mercy will soon be stretched out ; the power of 
 his truth and Spirit felt, the church will be 
 purified from her dross ; and, clad in her robes 
 
14rG EDWAKD WEED, 
 
 of fine linen, will sLine forth ' clear as the 
 sun, fair as the moon,' and become indeed, 
 ' terrible as an army with banners.' Blessed 
 Lord, /lasten the da//. 
 
 " Wife left home with sister L last 
 
 Wednesday for W . Both of them were 
 
 in tolerably good health. Jliey probably 
 reached there the next day, as they intended 
 to go through by the railroad. I wish much 
 to visit j'ou this summer, and take the tour we 
 spoke of; but whether my Heavenly Father 
 will ffive me tbe time to do so I cannot now 
 
 tell. Love to sister P . Let me hear from 
 
 you soon." 
 
 " Patersox, June 10th, 1845. 
 " My Dear AVife : — It is now Monday mor- 
 ning. After leaving you, I went directly over 
 to Brooklj'n — spent the night at brother 
 T 's. Mrs. T and the babe were suf- 
 fering from severe colds. In the morning I 
 
 called at Capt. K 's. Poor Sarah has gone 
 
 home to Vermont, very sick. Her recovery is 
 very doubtful. If I could tell you of the pros- 
 perity of the little church, I would speak of it, 
 I am afraid we have not prayed enough for 
 tliem ; and perhaps somewhat of unhallowed 
 bitterness was engendered in our hearts to- 
 
FAITII AND WOKKS. 147 
 
 wards some of tbein. I spent most of the day 
 in New York, 
 
 Yesterday was a very warm day. TJie ther- 
 mometer stoud at 9-i in the shade. Notwith- 
 standint; this we had a full house and good 
 attention. I felt unusual strength of budy, 
 and to-day feel far less lassitude than is 
 common for me on Mondays. My general 
 health seems to be better than usual — I feel 
 my heart strongly drawn out after holiness. It 
 Beems to me the Lord is endeavoring to do a 
 deep work of grace in me ; I hope I shall not 
 hinder it. Pray for me earnestly and continu- 
 ally ; Idesireto be filled with all the fulness of 
 God. All the ministers of Jesus Christ must 
 reach this point before salvation will flow through 
 our instrumeutalit}'. Be assured you are re- 
 membered in all my prayei's. This morning I 
 have had a most precious time in studying the 
 sacred oracles. The Lord is beginning to open 
 my eyes to see some of the exceeding glory 
 of his Word. My heart has been this morning 
 like a gushing fountain ; but I put no con- 
 fidence in emotions and clear views to save or 
 deliver from sin. They are often, however, 
 evixlence of progress in the Divine life. My 
 heart is drawn out for entire sanctification for 
 myself and you. I cannot tell you how I long 
 that we may be a holy couple ; that in every 
 
148 EDWARD WEKD. 
 
 relation of life, we may shpw forth the pralso 
 of God ; that the whole body of sin may he 
 removed, and that Christ may be fully and 
 truly put on. This morning I have been 
 earnestly studying to understand the distinc- 
 tion between the servitude of the old dispensa- 
 tion, and the Sonship of the new ; so often 
 alluded to and contrasted by the New Testa- 
 ment writers. I think I have got a tt)lerably 
 clear view of the matter. But my sheet is full, 
 not as full, however, as my heart. 
 
 " Much love to dear L ; she has been so 
 
 long with us that she seems like a sister to me, 
 indeed. Love also to mother, brother D — ■ — 
 and wife. Kiss dear Benny for me. I hope 
 to get a letter this week from you, and shall 
 (D. Y.) leave here next Monday." 
 
 During the journey alluded to in the last 
 two letters, Mrs. Weed met with an accident 
 that caused her a long and dangerous illness. 
 When she left home she had not recovered her 
 usual strength, after ])rotracted illness, in the 
 form of intermitting fever, and subsequently 
 varioloid ; the latter greatly endangering her 
 life. To Mr. Weed's mind, these afflictions 
 manifested only new tokens of the loving kind- 
 ness of his heavenly Father, as will be seen by 
 his continued letters. 
 
FAITU AND WORKS. 149 
 
 Paterson, Jime \Mli^ 1845. 
 
 " My Dkar Wikk : — Both your letters, by 
 
 tlie liaiid of sister II , have been received. 
 
 The Lord seems to be rolling one wave of 
 affliction uj^on anuther over us. I begin to 
 think he has taken us under his peculiar 
 tuition, and is about to prepai'c us to do a great 
 work for him. All these things are w^tarjaiiiHt 
 U6\ but for 'US. Tiiey are the workings of that 
 divine band, which ever ministers good to the 
 servants of the Lord. I hope, my dear,, you 
 will not faint under these chastisements ; but 
 'say to your soul, 'why art thou disrpiieted 
 within me ? Hope thou in God, for I shall yet 
 praise Him for the help of His countenance.' 
 I truly sympathize in your severe trials, and 
 feel sorry that so great a bui'den 'is thrown 
 upon your friends ; not that I tliink that they 
 will feel it a burden. The Lord willing, I 
 hope to be with you by Wednesday, perhaps 
 Tuesday night. I am doubtful whether this 
 reaches you before I do, and I consequently 
 have written short." 
 
 Mr. Weed hastened to his wife, remained 
 with her until she was convalescent, then left 
 her in care of her friends, and returned to his 
 abundant labors among his people. The fol- 
 lowing were written after his return. 
 13* 
 
150 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 "Patebson, Jane 30, 1845. 
 " ]\[y Dear Wife: — After we parted I had 
 a quick passage home, and found all things 
 safe and well here. Since I left you the image 
 of that dear little babe lias been constantly 
 before me ; but I suppose while I am writing 
 its tiny body is sleeping with its mother earth. 
 The thought fills me with sadness, but I look 
 up and say, " Even so. Father; for so it seem- 
 eth good in thy sight." I hope, dear, what- 
 ever iias been, is, or shall be, the dispensations 
 of Divine Providence, we may both have grace 
 cheerfully and meekly to say, "Thy will be 
 done." After getting home I prepared two 
 sermons, and preached them to my people yes- 
 terday. Though the day was stormy we had 
 a good congregation, and the Lord assisted me 
 to preach his Word. It was a good day to my 
 soul. I trust the Lord intends to do a good 
 work through me among this people. Since 
 my return my health has been remarkably 
 good, and my soul in a continual gh)w in view 
 of Divine truth. I long, I pant to fathom the 
 depths of holiness and the truths of religion. 
 To-day I have been out visiting among the 
 people. What a work needs to be done in this 
 place ! I wish I could paint to you two of the 
 scenes I have witnessed to-day, but I must not 
 attempt it. This week the temperance people 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 151 
 
 are bolding a protracted temperance meeting; 
 that is, thej are to have meetings every even- 
 ing during tlie week, passing round in succes- 
 sion to the various houses of public worship. 
 The bells are now striking eight, and I must 
 away to the meeting. 
 
 "I have just returned from the meeting. It 
 was held in the churcli in Prospect street. The 
 house was full ; we had an enthusiastic meet- 
 ing, and I think a first-rate impulse was given 
 to the cause. I hope these meetings will result 
 in much good. Drunkenness is empliatically 
 
 the sin of P . Pray earnestly for us. I 
 
 feel that I have a great work to do for my God 
 and generation, and that it nmst be performed 
 in a very short time. If no accident or un- 
 foreseen providence should occur to shorten my 
 life, I cannot hoj)e to be an efficient laborer 
 more than some tilteen or twenty years longer, 
 and how soon they will have rolled around. I 
 hope the Lord will richly prepare the minds of 
 us both to do his work. "But I must bid you 
 good night, and close. I shall have no time to 
 say more in the morning, as I wish to put this 
 in the first mail. The Lord willing, you shall 
 Lear from me again next week. 
 
 "Paterso^-, e/i^/y 7, 1SL5. 
 " Youi' letter of last Monday was duly 
 
152 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 received. The intelligence it contained of 
 the decease of our dear little babe, though 
 not unanticipated, filled me with sadness. 
 My heart bleeds over the spoils death has 
 won. Be assured that you have my warm- 
 est and most tender sympathies in all your 
 trials. For several months past you have been 
 called to pass through deep waters. I am re- 
 joiced that the Lord has not suffered you to 
 sink in them. Your letter did me much good. 
 I hope and trust that the Lord will fill you with 
 the consolations of his spirit. I think a wide 
 and effectual door is being opened up here for 
 usefulness. The })ast week has been one of 
 
 great interest to the peoj)le of P -. The 
 
 temperance meetings, to which I alluded in my 
 last, were kept up during the entire week with 
 great and increasing interest. A mighty im- 
 pulse was given to the cause. On the 4tii the 
 Sabbath-schools, in concert, formed a j^ruces- 
 sion, marched to the beautiful island of the 
 Passaic, and there, under the broad canopy of 
 heaven, shaded b}^ the branches of the pine 
 and sycamore, children, ])arents, and citizens 
 listened to appropriate addresses. This passed, 
 the procession formed again, left the island, 
 when the schools sej>arated, and went each to 
 their respective churches, where refreshments 
 had been provided for them. Li the P. M. 
 
I-'AII'II AND WOWKS. 153 
 
 the Temperance Society and citizens met on 
 the island. An immense concourse of people 
 were present. The addresses were good, and 
 also the other exercises. In the evening the 
 large Methodist church was lilled, and temper- 
 ance addresses were delivered and odes sung. 
 On Saturday temperance meetings were held 
 all day on the island, and in the evening at 
 their hall. Yesterday P. M. at 6 o'clock 
 another meeting was held on the island, and I 
 presume three thousand persons were present. 
 About one hundred signed the pledge. At 
 eight they met in our church. The house was 
 filled to overflowing. Mr. Edmonds, from 
 New York, addressed the audience; an excel- 
 lent impression was made. During the day our 
 communion season occurred ; we had a precious 
 time. The Lord was truly in our midst. 
 Three united with the church on profession. 
 Thus I have given you a very brief and meagre 
 account of the public exercises of the week. 
 That my hands, head and heart have been fully 
 employed you will not doubt. But, notwith- 
 standing all, my health is good, and I feel less 
 Mondayish to-day than usual. You undoubt- 
 edly think of me, alone in this large house, 
 and feel to compassionate my case. Well, it 
 would add greatly to my happiness to have my 
 familj with me. I am anxious you should 
 
15A EDWAIiD AVEED. 
 
 return as soon as it will be prudent and safe. 
 I do not wish you to run an}- risk. Give mj 
 warmest love to all the friends. Adieu." 
 
 Occasi(jnaliDxtracts of letters is all the writ- 
 ten record we have of Mr. AVeed's labors for a 
 year or more after the date of the above. But 
 many living witnesses there are who can testify 
 that he was never idle, but was always press- 
 ing forward ; every moment occupied in im- 
 proving his own mind, or in some labor of love 
 fur the good of others. He was found daily at 
 the bedside of the sick ; often visiting the im- 
 penitent, and inviting them to the fountain of 
 living waters ; speaking words of comfort to 
 the aiflicted and sorrowing; and mimrlino^ his 
 rejoicings with those that rejoice. AVhile he 
 uniformly spent his mornings in his study, he 
 as scrupulously spent the afternoon in pastoral 
 visiting ; and he was never known to stay at 
 home because of the weather, if it was ever so 
 inclement. In a little book, in which he re- 
 corded the dates and names of those visited, 
 there is an average of from twenty to thirty 
 families visited weekly for months together, 
 lie studied, not merely to pre})are a sermon 
 because he must have onefortlie next Sabbath, 
 but he studied to gain a knowledije of the 
 truth, that he might be a stronger man, and a 
 
FAITU AND WOItlvS. 155 
 
 better r ^an for yeare to come ; and out of liis 
 storehouse, thus treasured, be able to bring 
 things new and old, as they were needed. Ilud 
 lie indulged in necessary relaxation, he would 
 probably have lived longer ; and while he was 
 often chiding himself because he did not ac- 
 complish more, as he looked around on the 
 fields " white for the harvest;" others saw that 
 lie was fast using up those physical powers that 
 so early found the quiet and rest of the grave. 
 In March, 1846, he writes to a brother min- 
 ister, " At present we are in very prosperous 
 pleasant circumstances. The Lord is pouring 
 his blessing upon us, in the conversion ()t' souls. 
 Last Sabbath fifteen were admitted to our com- 
 munion. Others are indulging hopes, and others 
 still are under conviction. My hands, head, 
 and heart, are constantly employed." 
 
 And again to the same : 
 
 "Pateksojt, June llt/i, 184:6. 
 
 *'Dear Brothek F : — ^This morninor wife 
 
 has reminded me of the promise I made when 
 you were here, of a long letter. I presume 
 you are busily engaged examining the stores 
 of knowledge purchased on your recent visit to 
 our great metropolis. Certain I am that you 
 selected books, the contents of which if 
 
156 EDWARD WKED. 
 
 thoroughly digested, are adapted to enrich and 
 inform the mind, and to^elevate and purity the 
 heart. Many a rich feast undoubtedly you 
 have had from them, and richer repasts are 
 probably in store for you. My own progress, 
 I iind, depends more upon my private studies 
 and thoughts than all things else put together. 
 
 "In secret silence of the mind, 
 My licaveu and there my God I find." 
 
 My progress since you were here has been 
 rather slow. The ship makes but a few knots 
 an hour. I am now sailing along before rather 
 a dull and gentle breeze. Have you read the 
 slavery discussion in the ISTew School Assem- 
 bly? It is exceedingly important, and in- 
 teresting in one point of view. It gives us the 
 moral map of our whole counti-y upon the sub- 
 ject ; and that map shows that the nation and 
 church have been, and are now, making pro- 
 gress upon the subject. I still believe that 
 trutii and righteousness are yet to triumph 
 gloriously in our country, the Mexican war 
 notwithstanding. The temperance triumph in 
 New York State is another omen for good. 
 'The Lord reigns, let the earth rejoice.' Per- 
 haps I may find my way up into your parish 
 next month. I am anxious to visit the coal re- 
 
FAmr ANT> WORKS, 15T 
 
 gions of Pennsylvania. Should I go, will it l)o 
 consistent for you to make the excursion with 
 me? Let us hear from you soon. Our Heav- 
 enly Father blessed us with the gift of a pro- 
 mising, healthy little son, on the 5th instant. 
 Mother is still with ns, and doing much to 
 make everything comfortable and agreeable. 
 She will probably remain with us until the first 
 of next month. All join in love to you, your 
 
 wife, and little L , Vale Amice." 
 
 "P. S. — T brought up the Daguerreo- 
 type portrait. Anna exclaimed, 'Uncle F !' 
 
 and the rest of us thought it a striking resem- 
 blance of the bishop." 
 
 Mr. Weed ever remembered the interests of 
 the poor slave, and always hailed with joy any 
 movement that brightened the prospect that 
 the day of his redemption from bondage was 
 drawing nigh ; and he was always ready to 
 lend a helping hand to hasten the time of their 
 deliverance, or soften the rigor of their chains. 
 He considered the publishing of the National 
 F.ra at Washington as a token for good, and 
 s}>ent several weeks in Xew Jersey in solicit- 
 ing subscribers. A letter, writtcTi while absent 
 on this tour, alludes to his success. 
 
158 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 SwEEDKSBORo, Dcc. Z\st^ 1846. 
 " My Dear Wife : — It is now plain to me 
 that it will be impossible to do up my work in 
 this part of the state and get home this week. 
 
 I have eni^aj^cd Bi other AV to 6n})ply the 
 
 pulpit on the coming Sabbath. lie will pro- 
 bably arrive in Saturday's two o'clock train. 
 Ask him to attend the session meeting on Satur- 
 day evening at 8 o'clock in the session room. 
 
 Get Brother C to go with him. I expect now 
 
 to be home next Wednesday P. M., so as to 
 attend the Bible class in the evening. My 
 journey, thus far, has been a prosperous one. 
 Everything has muvcd on as happil} as I could 
 wish. I meet everywhere with a warm and 
 hearty reception by the friends of the cause, 
 have collected nearly $100, and expect to get an 
 hundred more before I return. 1 think of you 
 and our dear little boys every hour in the da}'. 
 May the Lord bless and enrich your heart with 
 his precious grace, and strengthen you in every 
 good word and work. Father I suppose is 
 Some lonesome. Ilemember my love to him. 
 I trust the Lord will restore me in due season, 
 safe and well to vou." 
 
CHAPTER XIY. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM LETTERS AND DIARY. 
 
 " Paterson, July 2l5-^, 1847. 
 " My Dear "Wifk : — My first letter was 
 written and sent off in great haste. My object 
 in sending it in such a hurry was that you 
 might get it by Saturday. Since I wrote my 
 health is greatly improved. On the Sabbath I 
 preached only once. The Doctor preached for 
 me in the P. M. This week I have felt un- 
 usually well. Though it has been excessively 
 warm, my mind and body have acted their 
 part vigorously. My heart is all astir. I am 
 blessed in calling upon the Lord, and rolling 
 all my burdens and cares upon him. There is 
 fatal sickness among the children here. Last 
 
 Sabbath we deposited the remains of J. J 's 
 
 little babe in the grave with its mother ; and 
 the Sabbath before we performed the same 
 office for Mr. T 's infant daughter, whose 
 
160 KDWA^RD WEKD. 
 
 mother died, you will recollect, about the time 
 
 with Mrs. J : And yesterday I attended 
 
 the funeral of Mr. M 's babe; all died 
 
 with cholera infantum. I am afraid little Eddy 
 will furget me. May your life and his be pre- 
 cious iu the sight of the Lord." 
 
 " New Foundland, August 25th. 
 " My Dkar Father: — Your letter was duly 
 received. I was glad to hear from you and 
 
 Brother H and family. Wife and baby 
 
 are still at her mother's in W . I expect to 
 
 go up there with B next week. We shall 
 
 expect to return next month, and shall be 
 ready to receive you ; shall have a snug, warm 
 little room for you. My health is good, though 
 I am somewhat worn down with over-labor, 
 and have come up into this hilly region to re- 
 cruit. Where I am now writing is about 2,000 
 feet above the level of the sea. It is a beauti- 
 ful, highly cultivated country. The mountain 
 ranges circle about us in every direction, inter- 
 spersed with fertile vales and beautiful lakes. 
 All well and prosperous at B . Fray earn- 
 estly for your minister; pracfice all the good 
 he |)reaches, and let the bad take care of itself, 
 and you will get along M-ell. If all Christians 
 would do ti)is they would soon have better 
 times, and their ministers would improve." 
 
FAITH Ami WORKS. 161 
 
 " rATI.:RSON, (kf. itJt. 
 
 " Dear Fatiocr : — We have a little room 
 fitted up on purpose for you and exi)cct you to 
 couie. We do not feel it a burden to have 
 you with us, or to exert ourselves to make you 
 comfortable. We are all as well and prosper- 
 ous as usual. I fintl an abundance to do. 
 Enough to use me up every day. The Lord 
 is moving in various ways among the peo- 
 ple. We are expecting great things here this 
 fall and winter. Fray for us. All join in 
 
 love to you, and Brother and Sister H 
 
 and L ." 
 
 The following letter was addressed to a dear 
 brother, just after he was licensed to preach : 
 
 '' Patkrson, August 10th, 1847. 
 " DiiAB Brother :— Your letter was received 
 yesterday. I hud begun to wonder what you 
 were doing, and was fearful you might be sick. 
 It affords me great satisfaction to learn that 
 your health is improving, and I lio]ie from this 
 moment forward you will keep the sti-ictest 
 viii'ils over it. Good health is amoiiij; tiie most 
 precious of earthly blessings. I cannot tell 
 j'ou, my brother, how my heart has recently 
 yearned over you. I desire to see you an effi- 
 cient minister of Jesus Christ ; a workman 
 
162 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 that nocdetli not to be ashamed ; a polished 
 instruniont in the hands of jour God. ]3ut 
 two things can make you such an one: an en- 
 tire devutedness to your Master, and a clear 
 and full knowledge of the truth as it is in 
 Christ. The attainment of the one, will call 
 for the higliest and strictest discipline of the 
 heart. The attainment of the other, the de- 
 velopment of the strongest powers of the intel- 
 lect. Neither will be accomplished without 
 much prayer and divine aid. Permit me to 
 suggest two things as landmarks to guide you 
 in your course. One is, seek not 3'our own 
 things, but the things of Him that sent you. 
 
 " ' Is there ambition in my heart ? 
 Search, gracious God, and see.' 
 
 " I mean in listening to calls to go here or 
 there. Let the true inquiry before your mind 
 be, in which of these situations can I be most 
 useful, and best subserve the end of my ministry ? 
 Not what will most advance my personal in- 
 terests. Alas ! how many are using the min- 
 istry as a mere means to a comfortable and a 
 respectable living. And what is their influ- 
 ence but to make the sacred office a hissing 
 and a by-word ? The other suggestion is, l)e 
 not a mere botanist, or even a gardener on the 
 field of your Lord. Strive to bean extensive 
 
FAITII AOT) WORKS. 163 
 
 former, bringing into the heavenly granary 
 not only a few flowers and esculent plants, but 
 a plentiful harvest of the substantial provisions 
 of lite. Do you understand me? I mean, let 
 your sermons be full of truth, of deep and well- 
 adjusted thought, rather than the mere tinsels 
 and flourishes of rhetoric. My own health is 
 
 good. I expect to visit "W the first week 
 
 in September ; may go as far as M . Tell 
 
 the whole circle of friends I have them in 
 everlasting remembrance." 
 
 '' Avgmt 10 fh, 1847. 
 
 " Dear Brother F : — Yours and L 's 
 
 letter was received yesterday. I hasten to re- 
 ply. No one is at home with me but B ; 
 
 wife and little Neddy are at mother's in 
 
 W . As I anticipated spending two weeks 
 
 of September there, it will preclude my accept- 
 ing your very attractive proposition. It would 
 not do for me to be away from my people four 
 weeks in succession. I am rejoiced that your 
 attention is turned to the close and critical 
 study of the Scriptures. They are truly the 
 fountain of light. All other books are but 
 planetary bodies, refulgent with light, only as 
 they are shone upon by the Bible. One of the 
 grand causes of backsliding and lukewarmness, 
 both in the ministry and in the church, at the 
 
1Q4: EDWARD WEED. 
 
 present dav, is, that tliere is so little zeal and 
 enthusiasni in the study of the Scriptures. 
 The raind of the people is diverted, absorbed, 
 and, I had almost said, entirely engrossed by 
 the njultij)licity of other books. Why, placed 
 as I am, near the teeming, prolific press, a 
 man needs an iron will to study the Bible sys- 
 tematically and thoroughly; he must be con- 
 stantly on his watch-tower. Christ's gos})el is 
 not known, and consequently its power is not 
 felt. O for a ministry that will devote them- 
 selves to the study of the religion of Jesus 
 Christ, with an earnestness and laborious per- 
 severance that characterizes the devotees of 
 science and literature ! Plad we such a minis- 
 try, their influence would thrill through the 
 nation. How little Imhig faith is there in 
 God's word! The power of its excellency is 
 neither seen nor felt. Adhere, then, my bro- 
 tlier, to 3'our resolution. Study the Uible care- 
 fully, selfdistrustingly, and reverently; be- 
 lieving and feeling it to be God's pure, una- 
 dulterated word. You shall be a man of God, 
 thoroughly furnished unto every good work. 
 You speak of helps in the New Testament. 
 You have Dr. Bhtomfield. So far as gram- 
 matical criticism is concerned it is invalnable. 
 It, together with Robinson's and Donnegau's 
 Lexicons, and Stewart's Greek Grammar of the 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 165 
 
 New Testament, (recent edition,) you will have 
 all the helps necessary. Wife's health re- 
 mains delicate. Our little boys are well. My 
 own health is as good as usual. Wiiy do you 
 not write ofteuer ? Love, in abundance, to 
 you both." 
 
 "Paterson, Feb. 3c/, 1848. 
 " Dear Brother : — AVe were much gratified 
 with the receipt and contents of your letter, 
 and had all things made it right and practica- 
 ble, we should have been exceedingly happy to 
 have carried out your plan ; but circumstanced 
 as we are it could not be dune. It is my most 
 busy season of the year; the time, of all 
 others, when I am called upon to exert my ut- 
 most energies. The Lord is moving by his 
 Spirit upon the hearts of his people. There 
 are some twenty inquirers in my congregation. 
 "\Ve are hoping for a great and good work 
 throughout the town. AVe have just closed a 
 Union meeting of some four weeks. ' Profes- 
 sors have been quickened, some souls con- 
 verted, a great many seriously impressed. 
 And we think, the influence has been very 
 happy upon the community." 
 
166 KDWARD WEED. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM DIARY. 
 
 " Ja/nuary 1st, 1848. — Spent the day in writ- 
 ing a sermon on Mark x. 17: 'What shall I 
 do to inherit eternal life V Visited Brother 
 
 W. V . In the evening attended, for a 
 
 little while, the juvenile concert ; spent the 
 remainder of the evening with my family. 
 
 " 2d. — Preached in the morning from Mark 
 X. 17. P. M., visited the Sabbath-school, 
 and administered the communion. Evening, 
 preached at the Union meeting, in the First 
 Presbyterian Church, from 1 Tim. ii. 8. Pe- 
 turned home, and read to my family part of 
 the January No. of the Missionary Herald. 
 
 " Sd. — Spent a season in devotional exer- 
 cises, according to my usual custom, and read 
 a few pages of ' Neander's Planting and Train- 
 ing.' Wrote several letters. Attended the 
 
 ministers' meeting at Pev. Mr. S 's, where 
 
 it was unanimously agreed to commence a 
 Union protracted meeting next week. This 
 meeting was characterized with great good 
 feeling and harmony of views. Made several 
 pastoral visits, and in the evening attended 
 our usual Monday evening prayer-meeting. 
 It was a precious meeting. 
 
 " ■ith. — Arose early, had a precious season 
 of prayer. Spent the A. M. in reading and 
 
FAITH Aim W0KK8. 1G7 
 
 thinking upon evangelical faith. "Was much 
 refreshed by the views I obtained. P. M., 
 mamed a couple, visited several families, and 
 wrote a letter to Dr. B , of Troy. 
 
 "SifA. — Studied critically Matthew, third 
 chapter, consulting commentaries and the ori- 
 ginal. Yisited five or six families, and iu the 
 evening attended Bible class. 
 
 " Qth. — A^ttended the funeral of Mr. S 's 
 
 child. Returned home and spent the day in 
 studying and preparing sermons. In the even- 
 ing attended the weekly prayer-meeting. 
 
 " 8^/i. — Spent the most of this day in my 
 study in preparing a sermon on Judges v. 23. 
 Yisited the sick. Spent the evening with my 
 family. Received calls from several Christian 
 friends, part of whom spent the evening with 
 us. Had a very agreeable interview. 
 
 " 9i7i. — Sahhath. — Preached in the morning 
 from Judges v. 23 ; in P. M. from Jer. xxix. 
 13 ; in the evening I listened to a sermon from 
 
 Brother D on searching the Scriptures. 
 
 All the exercises of the day were profitable to 
 my soul. 
 
 " lOi^A.— Wrote to Brother W in refer- 
 ence to the Siam mission ; to Rev. G. C. 
 
 S in reference to the county temperance 
 
 meeting. Attended the minister's prayer-meet- 
 ing. Wrote a short article ou temperance for 
 
168 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 the 'Intelligencer.' Evening attended Union 
 meeting. 
 
 " I'ith. — Spent the morning in study and 
 writing. P. M. visited several families, and 
 took tea with the ladies of the Sewing Society. 
 
 On my return found Brother "W , of N , 
 
 at my house. In the evening preached from 
 lleb. xii. 13. A full attendance. "Wife was 
 quite sick during the night. 
 
 " l^th. — Arose fatigued and unrefreshed 
 through the want of sleep. Spent a little time 
 
 with Brother W- . Visited Brother 11 . 
 
 Attended minister's prayer- meeting at 11 A. 
 M. Came home, spent a season in devotion 
 and reviewing my sermon. In the P. M. at- 
 tended to some business matters. AVas unable 
 to make much mental exertion. Attended 
 Union meeting in the evening, it was a ])re- 
 cinu8 meeting, the Lord evidently took the 
 
 lead. Brotlier II ] (reached from John iii. 
 
 14, 15. Subject, the lifting up of the Son of 
 Man. All the exercises were inipressive. 
 
 "14^//-. — Spent the morning in study. At- 
 tended minister's prayer-meeting — had a good 
 meeting. In the P. M. attended the funeral 
 of a colored child. Two women called upon 
 me under deep conviction, desiring conversa- 
 tion upon the subject of religion. Brotlier 
 
FAITII iLND WORKS. 169 
 
 G — ■ — preached in the evening. Text Horn, 
 vii. 13; subject, exceeding sinfulness of sin. 
 
 "15<A. — Spent the day in preparation for 
 tlie Sabbatii. In the evening attended the 
 Bible class ; it was a very precious season 
 This week was one of great labor, attended 
 "with anxiety, naturally growing out of the re- 
 sponsibilities of a minister, when the church 
 are putting forth special efforts. It has also 
 been a week of deep heart-searching and much 
 l^rayer. 
 
 " 16th. — Preached in the morning, with 
 much comfort, from Josh. xxiv. 15, middle 
 clause. In the P. M., Heb. x. 29. Union 
 meeting at Free Ciiurch, Brother H — ■ — 
 preached ; subject, the value of true piety over 
 everything else. Text Luke x. 20. After ser- 
 mon we had a precious prayer-meeting. It 
 was a good Sabbath. 
 
 " 17th. — Arose refreshed. Spent the morn- 
 ing in reviewing a sermon to preach in the 
 evening. The minister's prayer-meeting was 
 in my study. It was a precious, profitable 
 
 season. Took dinner with Brother F . In 
 
 the evening preached in the Baptist church 
 from Ps. Ivii. 7, 'My heart is fixed, O God, 
 my heart is fixed ; I will sing and give praise.' 
 
 " ISth. — Sufiered Tuuch from ennui brought 
 on by over labor. Plad a precious season at 
 
170 EDWARD WEED." 
 
 the prayer-meeting. P. M. called on Sister 
 
 I) to express my sympatliy M'itli her on 
 
 the death of her sister; made four other pas- 
 toral visits. Brother S preached at the 
 
 Union meeting, from Acts xxvi. 28. The 
 meeting was a very impressive and solemn 
 one. 
 
 " 19^/i. — Spent the morning in my study. 
 
 The prayer-meeting was at Brother L 's, 
 
 and the presence of the Lord was manifestly 
 with us. In the P. M. visited three families. 
 The evening I spent at home. Wife and little 
 Eddy are quite sick. 
 
 " 20th. — Accomplished hut little through 
 the day. Completed my sermon on Ps. xxxii. 
 6. Made three visits among my parishioners; 
 and in the evening attended meetins; at the 
 Cross street church, and heard an impressive 
 
 sermon, by Brother G , from Ps. cxlii. 4, 
 
 ' No man cares for my soul.' 
 
 " 2l5^. — ^This morning I spent in my study. 
 At eleven the minister's prayer-meeting was 
 held there. It was a season of great refresh- 
 ing. P. M. called on Brother T . In the 
 
 evening preached from Nch. ii. 20. Had 
 freedom in the exercise. 
 
 " 22c?. — Spent the day in my study. In the 
 
 evening called on Brother C and attended 
 
 ray Bible class. Some fifty were present. It 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 171 
 
 was a most meltiiic^, ]n'ccious season. Evi- 
 dently, tlie Spirit of the Lord was with iis. 
 Thid week has been one of great labor, fatigue, 
 and bodily weariness and lassitude. One, too, 
 in which the Lord has searched my heart, 
 shewn me the weakness of my faith, the feeble- 
 ness of my spiritual life, and how ranch I need 
 strengthening in every Christian grace. May 
 the Lord till my soul with all the fullness of 
 Christ. 
 
 "236?. — Sahhath. — This morning I awoke re- 
 freshed and invigorated. This I consider spe- 
 cial grace — my mind in a heavenl}^ believing 
 frame. In the A. M. I preached from Luke 
 ii. 49, to a large and attentive congregation. 
 The truth took hold. I appointed a meeting 
 of inquiry at liaU-past one. Eight dear pre- 
 cious youth were present. I had with them 
 a most agreeable season. In the P. M. I 
 preached with liberty from John ix. 4. Even- 
 ing I^rother L preached in First Church, 
 
 to a solemn and attentive audience, from Rom. 
 iii. 5. 
 
 " 2A:th. — Spent the morning out. In P. M., 
 at four o'clock attended a prayer-meeting of 
 ministers arid officers of the churches. It was 
 a precious season. God was in our midst. In 
 the evening Brother G preached in Free 
 
172 EDWARD "WEED. 
 
 Churcli, from Ilosca xi. 8. Six anxious sin- 
 uurs presentod tlieinselves for prayer. 
 
 " '2bth. — Spent most of the day in visiting 
 among m^- people. At two P. M. had a good 
 season at the prayer-meeting. In tiie evening 
 Brotlier L preached from Jer. xxiii. 5. 
 
 " 26i^/<. — Spent an honr-and-a-half in my 
 stud}'' in tlie murning, and the remainder of the 
 A. ]V[. in visiting the anxious. In the P. M. at- 
 tended minister's pi'ayer-meeting. Spent some 
 time in calling on Christians, and took tea 
 with the sisters at the Sewing Society. Ex- 
 horted tliem to duty, and prayed with them. 
 Left tliem all bathed in tears. In the evening 
 
 Brother L ■ preached with power from 
 
 John viii. 24, Four new cases out for prayer. 
 
 '' 29^/i. — Spent most of the day in study. 
 In the evening married a couple, and attended 
 my Bible class. This week, most of the time, 
 I have been greatly burdened for this town. 
 My own heart has been greatly searched. I 
 see and feel the necessity of the influence of 
 the Divine Spirit in the heart as I have never 
 before realized it. It is only as we liave the 
 Holy Ghost in us that we have power over 
 self, the world, and Satan. It is only tJien^ 
 1;<jo, that we liave power with God and man. 
 The ministry and church will never understand 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 173 
 
 the power of godliness until they understand 
 what it is to be ba]>tized with the Iluly Ghost. 
 
 ^^ZOth.—Sabl>ath.—VvQiiQ\\Qi\ A. M. to a 
 large and attentive audience, tVora Heb. iii. 2. 
 At half-past one P. M. had a prayer and in- 
 quiry meeting; fifteen precious youth pre- 
 sented themselves as inquirers. The Lord was 
 was with us. Preached P. M. from Ps. xxxii. 
 5. The Lord hel|»ed me. In the evening 
 preached at the Second Presbyterian Church, 
 from Phil. iii. 7. A full house and solemn at- 
 tention. After sermon an interesting prayer- 
 meeting. 
 
 " Zlst. — Arose refreshed. A. M. wrote sev- 
 eral letters. Ma^e eleven visits among my 
 people, and in the evening attended a prayer- 
 meeting of my own congregation. It was a 
 precious searching time. The Lord was with 
 us. 
 
 " Febrnary Ad. — Spent the morninoj in study 
 and the afternoon in visitino;. Attended the 
 prayer-meeting of ministers and official mem- 
 bers of the churches. Had a good season. In 
 
 the evening Brother L preached in the 
 
 Baptist Church a solemn, impressive discourse, 
 from Prov. xi. 7. Eleven presented them- 
 selves for praj^er. 
 
 " 4^A. — Spent the morning in study. At- 
 tended the prayer-meeting at 11 at Brother 
 
174 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 G 's. P. M. visited several families. In 
 
 the evening attended tlie Union meeting. Bro- 
 ther G preached a very appropriate and 
 
 solenm discourse from 1 Cor. xi. 28. Tliis 
 evening, after four weeks' continuance, the 
 Union protracted meeting was closed. These 
 meetings have evidently been crowned with 
 God's blessing. The closing meeting was a 
 precious melting season. 
 
 "5^7^. — Wrote a letter this morning to Bro- 
 ther P , and finished my preparations for 
 
 the Sabbath. Called on Brother W , and 
 
 in the evening attended the session meeting. 
 This week has been one of arduous labor and 
 spiritual enjoyment. 
 
 " Qth. — SiiUbath. — Preached in the morning 
 from Matt. iil. 7. In the P. M. eighteen or 
 twenty were present at the inquiry meeting at 
 half-past one. The communion season was an 
 exceedingly pleasant, solemn, spiritual season. 
 Called on sick Mr. B— — . Married a couple. 
 
 In the evening Brother H preached in the 
 
 Free Church. A large audience. 
 
 " 1th. — Arose this morning much debilita- 
 ted. Visited several families. Attended the 
 funeral of a child. Spent the P. M. with com- 
 pany at home. In the evening conversed with 
 two persons under deep conviction. 
 
 " Wi. — Did not feel able to do much, visited 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 175 
 
 some amontij mj pco])le, and in the evening 
 ])i'eached from Acts vii. 51, in the Second 
 Pi-esl)vterian Church. 
 
 " 9^A. — Spent the morning in stiidj'^; the P. 
 M. in visiting among my people. Called on 
 some of the youth and conversed with them in 
 reference to their joining the Bible class. 
 Visited the Sewing Society, and in the even- 
 ing attended the Bible class. 
 
 " 11th. — Finished my preparation for the 
 Sabbath. Visited five families. In the even- 
 ing attended a precious prayer-meeting in our 
 Lecture room. Some souls were converted. 
 
 " 14:th. — Saturday, spent most of the day 
 in visiting. 
 
 '■'■ Sal/lath.— F reached A. M. from Lnke xiv. 
 IS ; P. M. irom 1 Cor. x. 31. In the evening 
 lieard Rev. I. IST. Prime preach. This morning 
 I arose in better health than nsual. Had a 
 precious season of communion with God and 
 meditatino; on his word. Received a visit 
 
 from cousin J. W and E . Went 
 
 with them to the Falls and to the mills. After 
 they left visited several families, and in the 
 evening went to the inquiry meeting. Eleven 
 were present. Had a precious season with 
 them. 
 
 "15z'/«. — Spent the morning in meditation 
 aud study. Dined with Brother F , made 
 
176 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 some calls, and returned home to prepare a 
 sermon to preach in the evening. Preaclied 
 in the Second Churcli trum Matt, xxiii. 37. A 
 good audience out and quite a number of 
 inquirers. 
 
 " l\}t7i. — Spent tlie morning in study and 
 part of the P. M. Marie several visits. Bap- 
 tized tlie child of S. It . In the evening 
 
 attended the Bible class. This M'eek, in all 
 mv hibor and toil, the Lord has been with me. 
 Praised be his name. 
 
 " 2 OM..--^S't<JJaM.— Preached in the A. M. 
 on unbelief, Mark xvi. 16, to a good and atten- 
 tive congregation. In the P. M. from Mutt. 
 V. 3. In the evening attended the Sabbath 
 evening Union meeting at Manchester in Bro- 
 ther D 's church. Brother L preaclied 
 
 an impressive sermon upon glorifying Gud, 
 from 1 Cor. x. 31. 
 
 "23J. — Spent the morning, as usual, in my 
 study. Had a very vivid view of the sinner's 
 danger, and the immense difhculties in the 
 way of the soul being saved. Wrote several 
 letters. Visited several families. Went to 
 the Sewing Society and in the evening heard 
 
 Father O preach in my church. Wife 
 
 very ill. 
 
 " 24^A. — Arose invigorated with balmy sleep. 
 Found my heart ready to follow aftei" God, his 
 
FAITU AND WOKKS. 177 
 
 tion of the day in prcpiuiiig a sermon on the 
 perilous condition of the sinner. . Attended the 
 l^rayer-nieetiiii; at four P. M. A goodly num- 
 ber present, but Christians not awake, as they 
 should be. In the evening attended meeting 
 in my own church, and pi'eaciied the sermon 
 mentioned above. A solemn and attentive 
 congregation, and the Spirit evidently accom- 
 panied the truth. 
 
 " 25tk. — Arose this morning with more than 
 usual vigor. Family generally well. Wife 
 much better. What a rich blessing is health ! 
 1 feel to consecrate myself anew to the work 
 of God. 
 
 " 28th. — Have been greatly oppressed all 
 the day from ennui occasioned by the fatigue 
 of my Sabbath labors. P. M. made some 
 visits. Evening attended inquiry meeting. 
 Some twenty precious youth present. It was 
 a precious meeting, and I think a sealing 
 time. 
 
 " March 4th. — Spent most of the day in 
 preparing a sermon. Dr. Bradley, ^f the 
 Siam mission, came to spend the Sabbath with 
 me. Attended the session meeting in the 
 evening. Seven were examined preparatory 
 to uniting with the church. They gave very 
 good evidence of a saving change. The week 
 truth, and righteousness. Spent a large por- 
 
178 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 lias been one of weariness, still I have liad 
 many precious views of truth and my Saviour. 
 '"'' oth. — Sabhath. — Felt more strength and 
 health than I anticipated. My stomach was, 
 however, very sore. Brother Bradley preached 
 for me in the morning. I was much inter- 
 ested and edified. P. M. I had my Bible 
 class, and administered the sacrament of the 
 Lord's Supper. Seven united with the church. 
 
 In the evening Dr. B gave an interesting 
 
 account of the Siam mission, and a collection 
 of §13 was taken up. 
 
CHAPTER XV. 
 
 EXTRACT FKOM LETTERS UP TO THE TIME OF HIS 
 PKOTRACTED ILLNESS. 
 
 " Paterson, March IWi, 1848. 
 " Dear Brother — Your letter has been duly- 
 received. It affords me tlie highest pleasure 
 to hear of jour success and prosperity. You 
 had delaved writino; so lone;, that I began to 
 fear that things might be going wrong wi»:h 
 you. As you j)ass on in your ministry, 
 you will feel more and more the need of God's 
 spiritual aid — of that holy unction spoken of 
 so often, and with so much enthusiasm, by the 
 apostle John. Without it, our ministrations 
 are comparatively powerless. We mu.>t not 
 be satistied with simply gaining the esteem 
 and good will of our people. We must lift 
 our prayers, and concentrate all our energies 
 for their conversion and growth in orrace. 
 ''He that xoinneth souls is wise? It is my 
 prayer that God may make your ministry 
 
180 ED^VAKD WKKD. 
 
 abundantly I'ruitful, tu the praise and <^lory of 
 his name. The i>ast winter has been to me 
 one of excessive labor. As soon as we got 
 through our temijerance enterprise, we com- 
 menced a union effort for a revival. We went 
 from church to church, and alternated in our 
 preaching. We had a ministers' prayer-meet- 
 ing every day. Prayer meeting at 7 P. M., 
 preaching at 8, and prayer meeting at the 
 close. These meetings continued four weeks. 
 They were attended with very beneficial ef- 
 fects, but not with the power we had antici- 
 pated. Still, a goodly number were converted, 
 and a general seriousness distilled over the 
 town. 
 
 " At our last communion seven united with 
 the church on profession, and quite a number 
 more are indulging hopes. At my inquiry 
 meeting, last Monday eveniing, nineteen were 
 present. Our union meetings, on Sabbath 
 evening, are kept up with great interest. The 
 Lord is evidently with us. 
 
 " As I expected, our license law has all gone 
 by the board. We shall not, however, let the 
 subject sleep, but are determined to agitate 
 the matter more thoroughly than ever. Wife's 
 health remains very poor. The children are well. 
 Benny grows like a ' weed.' Eddy is healthy 
 and full of play and roguery. Little Albert is 
 
FAITM ANI» WORKS. ,181 
 
 a <j[iiict, <;'(>(i(l fcmiHTCil, iiitelli<^eiit (;]iil(l, and 
 grows very last. Father is well, iin])ruves 
 very fast in his studies and theological know- 
 ledge, writes sermons, but will not read thera 
 to me for fear I may laugli at them. When 
 lie goes to M. I expect he will be willing to 
 preach them. My own health is good at pre- 
 sent. I feel encouraged in my work. I am 
 aware that I know but little about preaching, 
 but I live in hope, and efforts to improve. I 
 have preached so niucli this winter that it 
 would take a sheet, almost, to give you an 
 index of my sermons." 
 
 " Hay 2d. 
 
 " Dfak T : I have been expecting to 
 
 hear from you ere this. I suppose, however, 
 that you are now beginning practically to un- 
 derstand the burdens of the ministry, and feel 
 the weight of responsibility. On this behalf 
 1 have one thing to say for your consolation. 
 It is, as you grow in strength and influence, 
 these responsibilities and burdens will in- 
 crease ; and that if you would be abundantly 
 useful, you must neither sigh after nor expect 
 any resting place on earth. Poor consolation 
 this, you say. IN^ot so bad as you may think. 
 Our aim should be, work ! work ! Our prayer, 
 for grace and strength equal to our day. 
 16 
 
IS'3 . EDWARD -VVEKD. 
 
 ' Cast thy burden upon tlic Lord, and he will 
 sustain thee.' All unite in love to you, L — ■ 
 and the little boys." 
 
 " Paterson, July 3d. 
 
 "Dear Br. T. : — Your letter was duly re- 
 ceived, and also father's, lijiving us an account 
 of his safe arrival and liis pleasant situation. 
 Yesterday I laid the matter before my church, 
 of my being absent from them some six weeks. 
 They voted unanimously fo let me go. I have 
 made an-angements for supplying my pulpit 
 most of the time — shall before leaving, do so 
 for the whole time. We are now expecting to 
 leave Wednesday or Thursday of next week. 
 Sliall spend the iirst Sabbath in Troy, on Mon- 
 day' go on to "NVhitestown, where we expect to 
 stay until the latter part of the subsequent 
 week, which will bring us to your place Fri- 
 day or Saturday of the last week in July. 
 
 "During the last week we have had a most 
 destructive fire in our town. On Tuesday 
 morning last, about two o'clock, the Oldhorn 
 works took fire. In a few minutes that im- 
 mense building was all in flames. The wind 
 blew towards the Episcopal church, which, 
 with Congress Hall, the upper story of S. 
 Pope's large brick house, and the engine 
 house, were all destroyed, and other buildings 
 
FAITH AJSI) AVOKKS. 183 
 
 were more or less injured, Tlie loss of p)ro- 
 perty will probably amount to some $100,000. 
 But the most afflicting of all is, Mr. Tl. Smith, 
 the owner of the flax mill, perished in the 
 flames. lie was in the Episcopal church, 
 helping to remove the organ, when the Avail 
 fell, prostrating him and enveloping him in 
 the flames. Several others barely escaped 
 with their lives. Thus you see, ' in the midst 
 of life we are in death.' " 
 
 " Patekson, Jvly Wth. 
 
 "DeakBko. F : Your letter was received 
 
 yesterday. We were very SLirry to hear that 
 your health was so precarious. Do not you 
 think that your spinal marrow is affected, and 
 that it would be well to take a course of treat- 
 ment in reference to that? All your symp- 
 toms, as described in your letters, lead me to 
 suppose the seat of your disease is in the spine. 
 The ' water treatment,' I think, would be ben- 
 elicial. I doubt not a thorough course of hy- 
 dropathy would greatly benefit you. There 
 is a very good establishment at Orange, in our 
 State. We are just on the eve of going west. 
 On Thursday next we intend to leave here with 
 all our family, and not return until the Ist of 
 September. Expect to visit Oneida, Oswego, 
 and Jefferson Counties, IS. Y. We have all 
 
184 KDWAIiD WKED. 
 
 been rather under the weather during the 
 spring and summer. The cliiMren have had 
 the measles, which has left their little systems 
 in a bad state. I think, however, they are re- 
 covering. AV^ife is very feeble, and my own 
 health quite precarious. I have not time to 
 give you my own opinion in reference to the 
 stirring events of the times, to which you al- 
 lude in your letter. I see in them the hand 
 of our adorable God, furthering his counsels, 
 as declared in his hol;f word. To my mind 
 the trreat clock of the world has struck, show- 
 ing us what time it is in the cycle of God's 
 designs towards the human family. As to the 
 final results I have no doubt that all will be 
 well. I have the fullest and sweetest confi- 
 dence in the overruling providence of Heaven. 
 ' All things are by the decree of the Holy 
 AVatchers.' My duty is simply to wait upon 
 (rod, and to be read}^ to come and go at iiis 
 bidding, but not to lay a finger upon his gov- 
 ernment. Let his counsels and his plans stand. 
 And may the Lord grant that we may all 
 sweetly repose ourselves in his hands." 
 
 During Mr. Weed's absence on the journey 
 mentioned in the foregoing letters, he received 
 a call from a church in A , Ohio. The 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 185 
 
 following letter refers to it, aiitl to his return 
 to Lis people : — 
 
 " Paterson, Sejjt. 25, 1848. 
 Dear Brotiiior : — ^You arc undoubtedly anx- 
 ious to hear iVom nie. I was sorry to be 
 obliged to liurry along so, witliout having time 
 to coininunicate to you the results of my visit 
 to Ohio. I was cordially received, and during 
 my three days' stay, passed through most of 
 the congregation. I was pleased with the 
 people. The congregation on the Sal)l)ath 
 was large and the attention good. The par- 
 sonage house is a good one, resembling in its 
 construction yours. Connected with it is a 
 farm of eighty acres, fifteen cleared and under 
 good cultivation. If I will go there they will 
 put the house in first rate order, give me the 
 use of it and the land, and five hundred dol- 
 lars. But leaving this matter, I will give you 
 an account of ray return home. Our passage 
 
 from M to K was a watery one. But 
 
 we, however, had a good berth, and got 
 through well. Our stage companions were 
 agreeable, and conversation was kept up with 
 profit and spirit. In the morning I hired a 
 
 man to take me to W . Found wife and 
 
 children unusually well. For the sake of her 
 seeing her sister, who is expected from Ohio 
 16* 
 
186 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 soon, I consented to their remaining tliere a 
 
 few weeks longer ; and taking E , I got 
 
 aboard the 11 o'clock train and pursued my 
 way to Troy. Bro. B went on to Pater- 
 son to preach the next day for me, and I 
 remained at Troy over the Sabbath and 
 preached for him. I am gaining strength and 
 flesh. My people had anticipated my rerurn, 
 with enthusiastic jo}'. The ladies had cleaned 
 the cliurch from top to bottom, and had it 
 painted inside and out. A new carpet, new 
 chairs, and a new table, and every thing as 
 neatly arranged as good taste could devise. 
 On the Sabbath I was greeted with an over- 
 flowing congi-egation. I chose for my text, 
 Acts xxviii. 15 ; ' And from thence, when the 
 brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as 
 far as Api»ii Forum, and the ITiree Taverns : 
 whom when Paul saw, he thanked God and 
 took courage.' T first spoke of the greatness 
 of the gospel minister's work ; 2d, of its diffi- 
 culties ; 3d, of its encouragements, among 
 which I referred to the expressed confidence 
 and affection of his Christian bretliren, which 
 so rejoiced and strengthened the heart of Paul. 
 The application you will perceive. Since my 
 return, my heart has been all melted down. 
 The goodness of God has been so consi^icuous 
 towards me and my people, during my ab- 
 
FAITII AND "WOKKS. 1S7 
 
 sence, I am overpowered with a sense of it. 
 Had I been a king or a prince, passing through 
 the land, I coukl not have been better treated, 
 and my every want more richly and fully sup- 
 jilied. Truly he has caused me to ride upon 
 liis high places, and fed me with the heritage 
 of Jacob. 
 
 ' Now I am thine, forever thine, 
 
 Nor shall my purpose move, 
 Thy hand hath loosi'd my bonds of paiu, 
 
 And bound me with thy love.' 
 
 Though sickness has prevailed in our town, 
 and many have been cut down, but a single 
 one (a child) in our congregation has iallen. 
 The angel of the Lord has encamped about 
 our dwellings, and his protecting shield has 
 been over them. My brother, praise God in 
 my behalf. My visit with friends has been 
 very refreshing. I shall write father before 
 long. My abounding love to you all. AYrite 
 soon." 
 
 " Pateeson, Wov. 6f/i, 1848. 
 " Mt Dear Father — After so long a time I 
 have taken my pen to address you. Such has 
 been the constant pressure of my pastoral du- 
 ties, I have had no time to do it before. As 
 usual, my whole being is occupied with the 
 
188 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 work anfl cares of my station. Since my re- 
 turn m}' health has been very good. I trust, 
 with due care, and proper observance of phys- 
 ical laws, that my life and health will be 
 spared unto me. My family are with me now, 
 and are all enjoying good health. We think 
 our journey and visiting have done us all great 
 good. We have returned to our field of labor 
 with better health, and a keener relish for our 
 work. We hope the Lord will hear our 
 prayer, and build up his cause in our midst. 
 At present, religion is at a very low ebb. The 
 power of godliness is not felt, although the 
 forms of worship are tolerably well attended 
 to. My congregations on the Sabbath are 
 large and attentive. I have returned a nega- 
 tive reply to my call from A . They 
 
 insisted upon my coming this fall, and to have 
 loft thus suddenly would have been a heavy 
 blow to this congregation, and especially so 
 soon after my long absence. The trustees and 
 elders of the church here, expressed it as their 
 opinion, that it would be the ruin, almost, of 
 the church. In addition, the labor and peril 
 of removing my family at this inclement season 
 of the year, so far, and the excitement of set- 
 tling down and forming new acquaintances, 
 appeared to me a work greater than my health 
 would be equal to. I feel happy in my de- 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 189 
 
 cision, and tliink the Lord has directed in 
 reference to it. I helieve, with due care, I 
 sliall he able to discharge iny duty successfully 
 to this congregation. I have purchased me a 
 liorso and wagon; my. object is for my own 
 and my family's health. I tind that exercise 
 on horseback is very beneficial. 
 
 " My dear father, lam aware that you have 
 arrived to that period of life, in which you are 
 called to endure peculiar trials, and you need 
 ])eculiar grace to sustain you. To look toward 
 the setting sun is not so joyous as to behold its 
 rising splendors. The fading away of the 
 light of day affords a melancholy pleasure, 
 but its morning approach exhilarates as well 
 as pleases. So it is with the morning and 
 evening of life. The pleasures of old age are 
 of a sad and melancholy cast. The grave and 
 eternity stand continually in view. The 
 morning and noon of life are past, and the 
 shades of night are gathering about ; and, as 
 its dark mantle begins to hang over you, the 
 conscious certainty, that so far as the scenes 
 and enjoyments of earth are concerned, it must 
 grow darker and darker, naturally heightens 
 the gloom and increases the raelanclmly. 
 Every thing seems to proclaim to the aged, 
 'I must decrease.' Under these circumstances 
 nothing can buoy up the spirits but beholding 
 
190 EDWARD ■WEED. 
 
 with an eye of fiiith the thinc^s flint are nnsccn 
 and eternal, and which niahestothesoul, all tho 
 promises of God to his saints, '■ yea and amen.'' 
 If the IIolj Spirit slied abroad the love of 
 (lod in the heart, it will render the apced man 
 cheerful and happy ; and though to his bodily 
 senses, all the ' sons of plea-nre Jjre brought 
 low,' his heart will triumph in grace, and his 
 countenance be radiant with the joys of salva- 
 tion. It is my prayer that you Tuay be com- 
 forted with the exceeding great and precious 
 consolations of the gos])el. Will you write 
 soon ? All join iu love to yon." 
 
 • " Paterson, FcK 5M, 1849. • 
 " My Dear Father : — Your letter was duly 
 received, and I regret the necessity of having 
 neglected to answer it so long. My excuse is 
 the multiplicity of business, and a rather fee- 
 ble state of health. My chest troubles me 
 some, especially when I ap])ly myself to writ- 
 ing or hard study. In other respects I am vig- 
 orous. Since my return my labors have been 
 very great, and I see nothing ahead but work ! 
 work ! work ! I trust, however, I shall exer- 
 cise more wisdom hereafter iu performing it. 
 Things at present are assuming, in my congre- 
 gation, a more encouraging aspect. Yester- 
 day was a very solemn day with us. The 
 
FAIXn AND WORKS. 191 
 
 pceached word seemed to produce an mmsnal 
 effect, and in the evening we had a very im- 
 pressive conference and prayer-meeting. This 
 week we are to have a 2)rayer and conference 
 meeting every evening. I have visited nearly 
 all the brethren of the church, and pledged 
 them to attend. We expect the presence of 
 the Lord with us. Death has been in our 
 midst, and removed several of our members. 
 Last week we buried Mrs. S. Miller, and Mrs. 
 J. McLaughlin. Br. C — — has been confined 
 to his house with a broken leg, the last three 
 months. lie suffered greatly, but bore it like 
 a Christian, and I trust it has been a spiritual 
 blessing to him. AVife's liealtTi is better than 
 usual this winter. The children are remark- 
 ably well. Little A has become a line 
 
 active boy, runs about, and tries to talk. We 
 have had an unusual amount of sleighing here 
 this winter. We were sorry to hear that you 
 had been so unwell. You must not, however, 
 look on the dark side, but trusting in God, 
 submit to the intirmities of age. Be as cheer- 
 ful and happy as possible. The people here 
 remember you with affection. All the family 
 send love." 
 
 " Paterson, Feb. Uh, 1840. 
 " Dear T — ' — : I am anxious to hear from 
 
102 KDWAun m'E]':d. 
 
 # 
 
 }'on, and of tlie work of the Lord in 3'our midst. 
 liy this time you are becominf;^ familiar both 
 with the lal)ors and tlie consolations of the 
 minister of tlie gospel. You find it a life of 
 care, of toil and anxiety ; l)nt, at the same 
 time, a work that angels might rejoice to be 
 occupied in. I trust you love the work, and 
 are every day improving in skill and power to 
 perform it. Of conrse I know how to sympa- 
 thize with yon, and I am glad you are Ijcgin- 
 ning to do so with me. I should like to write 
 you a long letter, but my weak stomach will 
 not allow it. I think I have been improving 
 in knowledge and in spirit, since my return. 
 I hope I think less and less of self, and more 
 of God and his cause. It was hard work to 
 get things up here, after I came home from 
 my tour last summer. But they are beginning 
 to move now, and I hope the work of the Lord 
 M'ill prosper." 
 
 " Patkrson, July 19, 1849. 
 
 "Dkar Bko. P : — Your letter came to 
 
 hand last week. We feel reproved for not 
 having written to you long before. Since you 
 was here my labors have been very great, and 
 my bodily strength feeble. Still, by the grace 
 of God, my health is much the same. I cannot 
 perceive that my strength diminishes. My 
 
FAITII AND WOKKS. 103 
 
 dnirch and congregation li ad got a great ways 
 away iVom the Lord, and it has heen hard, 
 work to bring things np again. They seora 
 somewhat revived now. We have for the last 
 two weeks been hohling continnons evening 
 meetings, in which I have usually preached a 
 Bhort sermon, and the remainder of the eve- 
 ning has been s[)ent in prayer and conference 
 by the church. We shall (D. V.) continue 
 them througli the week. Some have been 
 converted, and many of the brethren and sis- 
 ters humbled and revived. I rejoice in the 
 blessing poured upon you and your people ; I 
 hope you may hold on your way, better know- 
 ing the Lord, and better understanding how 
 to do the work of a gospel minister. What a 
 glorious privilege it is that we can advance, 
 tliat we may constantly improve in every direc- 
 tion, and that there is no point of excellency, 
 short of al)Solute infinity, which we may not 
 hope to attain. I think my own heart has 
 made some advance in holiness during the 
 last three months ; but my progress is slow. 
 ' Enlarge my heart that I may run in the way 
 of thy commandments !' the Psalmist exclaims. 
 Oh, what a great heart it needs to be a boly 
 man ! None biit God can make our hearts 
 large enough for such a work ; to be a par- 
 taker of the new covenant in the sense of hav- 
 
194 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 ing the stony heart taken away, and the law 
 written upon tlie new heart. It is my desire 
 by day and by night,. Christ, nothing but 
 Christ and his fullness. Pray for me, my 
 brother, that I may be set free from all the 
 bonds of sin." 
 
CHAPTER XYl. 
 
 SICKNESS RESIGNS HIS CHARGE LEAVES PATEE- 
 
 SON ^LETTEKS DURING HIS ILLNESS HOPES AND 
 
 FEARS. 
 
 A FEW days after the last letter was written, 
 Mr. Weed was entirely prostrated by the 
 disease that had been for months undermining 
 his health, and he was obliged, suddenly, to 
 suspend all his labors. His sermons that he 
 had commenced fur the ensuing Sabbath were 
 never finished. After passing along for some 
 weeks, between the alternations of hope and 
 fear, his strength and the prospect of his ulti- 
 mate recovery, all the time decreasing, he 
 called together the official members of his 
 church, and tendered to them Ijis resignation. 
 The ext(?nt and magnitude of this trial was 
 fully appreciated only by him who was tem]>t- 
 ed in all points like as we are, that he nvio-lit 
 become to us, a merciful and gracious High 
 Priest. About the same time he received the 
 
190 EnWARD WEED. 
 
 intelligence of the death of liis loved and 
 honored father. His letters, in these "Days 
 of trial, days of grief," breatlie the meekness 
 and submission of one whose will was swallow- 
 ed up in the divine will. 
 
 "Paterson, March loth, 1849. 
 "Dear Brother : — All your letters respecting 
 the sickness and death of our dear father were 
 duly received — greatly are we afflicted by our 
 loss. Every day something meets our eyes to 
 remind us of the departed, and cause our tears 
 freely to flow. Tlie hymns that we sing, the 
 passages of Scripture that we read, are in so 
 many ways associated with father's memory, 
 that we often burst into tears while at our 
 family devotions. jSTature bleeds, but the 
 spirit rejoices in the glorious triumphs of grace 
 ilhistrated in liis life and in his death. It 
 wuukl liave been a source of great gratitica- 
 tlou to me could I have bt'cn with liim in the 
 hour of conflict; I should love to Imve seen 
 his renuiins ttx^, before they were deposited in 
 tlie earth. These things, however, were de- 
 nied me by my lleavenlj^ Fatiier, and I will 
 not complain. While receiving the lieaN'y 
 tidings through your letters, I was an invalid, 
 with strength so prostrated that I could not 
 read ten lines without distress. I am still very 
 
FATTir AND WORKS. 107 
 
 wealc and poor. ITavc not preached for a 
 nioiitli, and do not expect to for months to 
 conic. J)r. M. says I must rusticate six 
 months, at least, or make up my mind to go to 
 the 'hospital for incurable invalids.' I shall 
 leave this field of labor the first of May — that 
 y'.s' all settled. I have tendered my resigna- 
 tion, and it has been accepted. AVhat I shall 
 do, or where I sliall go, lies at present all in 
 the dark: I shall be also wholly destitute of 
 means. After selling off most of our goods 
 and chattels, I shall be just about even with 
 the world. But I can say with the Apostle 
 Paul, 'None of these things move me, neither 
 do I count my life dear unto myself;' I have 
 the consciousness of having done my duty, and 
 of having acted unsellishly, and though 
 afflicted, I am not depressed in spirits, I was 
 never more cheerful and happy — ' Jehovah 
 jireth' is my motto. Pray for us. I have not 
 yet had strength to prej^are a notice of father's 
 death ; I nope to be able to do so this week ; I 
 should like to have a letter soon from you, 
 . giving an account of his funeral, etc." 
 
 Patekson, April 2nd. 
 " Drar Brother : — I have deferred answer- 
 ing your last letter solely because I have not 
 had strength to do so. For the last four weeks 
 
198 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 my position lias been near death's door, and I 
 am but little, if any better at present ; I am 
 feeble as an infant ; it wearies me to put on 
 and off my garments ; I do not pretend to do 
 anything in an intellectual way ; I cannot read 
 live minutes without distress. Notwithstand- ' 
 ing all this, I suffer but little severe pain ; my 
 disease appears passive rather than active : 
 how it will eventuate my Heavenly Father 
 only knows. My mind has been kept cheer- 
 ful and happy ; I have had no gloomy or de- 
 spondent feelings. My people, and the whole 
 community, seem to sympathize deeply with 
 me ; I have resigned my charge, and if strong 
 enough, shall leave here the first of May. As 
 to your coming on here 1 know not what to 
 say ; 1 should like much to see you, and some- 
 times think unless you do come soon, I shall 
 never see you again in tlie flesh. Yet, when 
 I think of your engagements and responsibili- 
 ties, and the expense the journey will involve, 
 I cannot ask you to come. Should you, upon 
 the whole, think it best, I should like to have 
 you come the last of the month, so that you 
 might help me in settling up my affairs, and 
 in moving. Unless I improve rapidly, 1 shall 
 not be able to do anything in those matters. 
 My friends here advise my going to a water 
 cure establishment; Dr. M also advises 
 
FAITFI AND WORKS. 199 
 
 the same ; I shall probably do so if I can raise 
 the means. A week from to-day our people 
 have a donation party at the church on our 
 behalf. Wife's health is pretty good, and she 
 nurses me with great care and tenderness. 
 Tlie children are all very well." 
 
 All the arrangements were made for 
 
 Mr. Weed to leave P the first of May. 
 
 His horse and carriage and household goods 
 were sold, and with the avails of them, all 
 his arrearages were settled uj), so that after 
 fourteen years of self-denial and toil, as a 
 minister of the gospel, he found himself 
 as empty-handed as when he began. But 
 now he was sick, with a helpless little family 
 looking up to him as their jDrotector and pro- 
 vider. Still his confidence in Ilim, who 
 hears the young ravens when the}' cry, for a 
 moment faltered not. As preparations were 
 being made for the removal of his family, to 
 find their home in the " Wide, wide world,'' 
 his wife wishing to know if his faith faltered, 
 said to him, " Don't you wish that you had 
 given away less, and been more provident for 
 the future — how nice it would be now if we 
 had a little home to go to ?" " iTo," he an- 
 swered, with emphasis, " no, I think I have 
 
200 EDWAKD WKEP. 
 
 done as God would liavc me do, and now I 
 "believe ho will make me an example of what 
 he would do for his peoi)]e and his ministers, 
 'if ihcy would put their trnst in him." 
 
 About two hundred dollars was the result of 
 the donation visii,, mentioned as being anti- 
 cipated in his last letter. This was all 'his 
 
 earthly dependence when he left P . hut 
 
 the result proved that, as a child of God, he 
 did not trust his Heavenly Father in vain. 
 "When the first of May came, his strength was 
 so much reduced that he could not walk across 
 the room without assistance, and many fears 
 were entertained that he could not sui-vive his 
 journey. "When he reached Jersey City he 
 was so exhausted that he was thought hy some 
 of the friends who accompanied him to be in a 
 d^nng state. l>ut the sea-breeze and a frw hours 
 rest revived him, so that he endured the re- 
 mainder of his journey, a distance of some three 
 hundred miles, better tlian was anticipated. 
 AVeak as an infant, he was obliged to he 
 carried from one conveyance to another in the 
 arms of his attendants. His subse<juent letters, 
 sometimes by his own hand, and sometimes by 
 the hand of another, give an ei)itouie of the 
 clianges and trials through which he pass(!d, 
 and of the tiiumphs of grace in his case. 
 
KUTli AND WoUKS. 201 
 
 " nYDliOPATlIIC IIaJLL, KiCHLAND, 
 
 JulyZrd, 1849. 
 
 " Dear TIkot}ier C : It is now two months 
 
 since we parted. Undoubtedly you anticipated 
 hearing from me l)etbre this, and are anxious 
 to know jny state. My healtli has hcen so 
 poor, that I liave not been able to write my- 
 self, and I have required so much attention 
 from my friends, that, witli their own responsi- 
 bilities, they have not had the time to conduct 
 my correspondence. The consequence has 
 heen, I have had but few letters written to my 
 
 friends. My journey from New York to O 
 
 greatly exhausted me, still there was vitality 
 enough to re-act, and, for a few days, I seemed 
 to be on the gain, when ray disease assumed a 
 new form ; my face and limbs began to bloat, 
 and a watery deposit also formed in my lungs, 
 which I was obliged to cough off. My whole 
 person became exceedingly bloated ; you would 
 not have known me. 
 
 " About ten days since, I commenced the 
 water treatment. I obtained admittance into 
 this establishment, with the unenviable dis- 
 tinction out of thirty-five patients, of being the 
 most hopeless and feeble of them all. 13ut the 
 treatment, which has been very prompt and 
 active, has taken hold of me with decidedly 
 favorable success. The doctor thinks there is 
 
202 EDVVAKD WKEI). 
 
 no doubt of my ultimate recovery, unless some 
 untoward event should intervene. At the 
 same time it is probable I shall not be able to 
 do an^'tliing for my own or my family's sup- 
 port for twelve months, and my expenses have 
 been, and still are, very great. Now, Brother 
 C, will you make my case known to my Chris- 
 tian friends, with whom I have been associated 
 for the last six or seven years, and get them to 
 do for me as they think best. It is exceed- 
 ingly trying for me to make this proposi- 
 tion ; but you are aware that I have always 
 labored for a small salary, and in churches 
 that w^ere struggling for an existence, and that 
 this has required me to. practice great self- 
 denial, to live sparingly, and give liberally. 
 During the last eleven years of my minis- 
 try, I can count up eleven hundred dollars, 
 that 1 have given away in large sums to 
 benevolent objects. Whilst the small sums 
 that I have distributed here and there, have 
 been numerous. The consequence has been, 
 that I have been unable to lay up anything. 
 
 Say to dear Brother W that his kind visit 
 
 on board the boat, and generous gratuity, so 
 overcame me at the time, that I was not able 
 to express to him my thanks. Say to Doctor 
 
 B that I feel under great obligation to 
 
 him for his kindness, and that his prescriptions 
 
lAMII A Nil WoliKS. 2(>3 
 
 Were of i^reat value to me. I luive suft'enHl 
 greiitly ; but my Heavenly Father lias kept 
 my mind in perfect j^eace ; I have not had one 
 complaininiif feeliny; ag'ainst Divine Provi- 
 dence, neither have I been depressed. I have 
 felt to leave my case wholly in the hands of 
 the Lord, and to say, ' Thy will be done.' 
 Through Ilis grace, thus far, I have not faint- 
 ed nnder this rebuke, and T trust I shall not. 
 As I was not able to write myself, I have 
 been obliged to emj^loy the hand of another." 
 
 ''Jnhj^lth, 181:9. 
 
 " Dkak BKOTHKii C : Your long-expected, 
 
 and more than welcome letter, came duly to 
 hand. I think it did me more good than any 
 other letter I ever received. The hearty and ten- 
 der sympathy, and deep interest manifested and 
 expressed in it for me in my present chastened 
 and afflicted state, on your own ])art, and that 
 of your dear church, and of the brethren of the 
 association, was grateful and exceedingly re- 
 freshing to my soul. Though we can live 
 without human sympathy — shut np only to 
 God, yet, when it does conie, and we know 
 it is hearty, it is to the spirit like the genial 
 showers of summer to the thirsty earth. I feel 
 to praise God for this new manifestation of 
 love to me. I wish to express to you also my 
 
204 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 tliants for the pecuniary aid you sent me. It 
 came to me in a most acceptable time. My 
 cruse of oil was nearly exhausted ; w'hat you 
 sent me has rei)leiiished it. It is four weeks 
 to day since I came here, durino- that time I 
 have been greatly beneiitted. The bloat has 
 nearly left my body, and my countenance is 
 assuming its natural color. My strength is 
 returning as rapidly as could be expected; 
 and, though still weak, it is my abiding belief 
 that I shall be spared to do something more 
 for my Redeemer's cause on earth. I was ex- 
 ceedingly glad to hear that the presence of the 
 Spirit is manifest in your assemblies, and that 
 you have been cheered in your labors by ad- 
 ditions to your church. My prayer is, that 
 the Lord may continue his mercy in this re- 
 spect; and that he may preserve yourself and 
 your family, and the members of your sano 
 tuary, from the ])0stilcnce that walketh in 
 darkness, and the destruction that wasteth at 
 noon day. My own mind is calm and peace- 
 ful, stayed u])on tlie Lord. My power to read 
 and meditate is beginning to return. It is pre- 
 cious to be able once more to study the oracle 
 of God. For five months I have not been able 
 to read at all, or to fix my attention upon any 
 subject continuously. liemember me most 
 afiectionately to the people of your charge. I 
 
J'AITII ANJ) WOfiKS. 205 
 
 have always felt a living interest in tlieiu. 
 Much love to sister C . Adieu." 
 
 " RicuLAND Hydropathic Hall, 
 Sejyt Uh, 18J:9. 
 "Dear "Brotiirr F : You have undoubt- 
 edly looked for a letter i'roni some of us ere 
 this. I have written to my friends as I have had 
 strength ; but have not been able as yet to write 
 to all whom I know wish to hear from me, 
 and who have peculiar claims upon me. Pro- 
 bably you hardly expected I should be in the 
 land of the living at this time. My state, when 
 
 you parted with me at P , did not indicate 
 
 that I had many days to spend on earth. I 
 was very weak then, but became still weaker 
 
 after I reached W , until the dropsj^ set in, 
 
 and T became very much bloated ; my li]>s 
 and hands were white as chalk, and I was so 
 weak I could not walk across the floor without 
 help. At this juncture I concluded t(^ try tlic 
 Water treatment, and accordingly enteretl the 
 establishment from which I date, nine weeks 
 ago ; and I h<>pe in two or three weeks more 
 to be able to leave here and travel. By the 
 recommendation of my physician, I expect to 
 spen":! some six or eight weeks in visiting mj^ 
 friends, travelling in my own conveyance. 
 "What is to be our future destination I do not 
 
200 KDWAKll \Yi;Kn, 
 
 kiiOM-; I tliiiik a mild climate will Lc better 
 for me, than a sev^ere one. The question lias 
 arisen in my mind, whether there may not be 
 a destitute congregation in your vicinity, that 
 I might supply during the winter. If I am 
 prosi)ered, I hope to be able to preach by the 
 first of January. I do not intend to apply my- 
 self to study during the winter ; I shall avail 
 myself of former study, and not preach more 
 than two or three times in the week. Preach- 
 ing has never seemed to hurt me. like close 
 and long continued study. AYe have thought 
 some of taking our little family and going 
 to Ohio. Wherever m'c go, we expect to travel 
 in our own conveyance, and take our children 
 with us. You may wish to know how we are 
 a"ettin<x on for funds ; our cruse of oil has not 
 yet run out, though it is lu-ctty Ioav. Owing 
 to my very severe sickness, our expenses have 
 been very great; I have received 'some aid 
 from my eastern Christian friends, Avhich has 
 enabled me to get along tlius far, comfortably, 
 "What is to be the future in this respect, does 
 not yet appear. I have no fear that my Hea- 
 venly Father will suffer me to want. During 
 the last six months T have been called to suffer 
 greatly ; but, during it all, my mind has been 
 kept in perfect peace and (piiet. I have been 
 sweetly resigned to the divine will. This is of 
 
I'AITU AMI) \VORK«. 
 
 207 
 
 the Lord, and I thank lUm for it. Much lovo 
 to yourself and family.'" 
 
 " llicuuxNv, Sejyt. nth, 1849. 
 " Dear Bkothkr G : My health conti- 
 nues to improve. This morning I felt more 
 like my former self than I have since I have 
 been sick. I hope in a few months to be able 
 to do something for the support of myself and 
 family. I liope in some three weeks more I 
 shall be able to leave here, with ray system 
 wholly renovated ; if I do, I shall be almost 
 like one raised from the dead. I feel that my 
 afflictions have done, and are doing, me good. 
 The world and all its pleasures never appeared 
 to me more insipid, and Gud and his truths 
 more gi-and and glorious. I long once more 
 to preach the glorious gospel. It never ap- 
 peared to me more precious." 
 
 " RionLAND,«%?^. IZth, 1849. 
 " My Dea.r WrFE : — :I took your letter from 
 the office to-day, soon after it came in. I was 
 rejoiced to learn that you had a safe and pros- 
 perous journey, and were so cordially received 
 b_y your fi-iends. I have felt a solicitude to 
 hear from you all the week. I was a])i)rehen- 
 sive you might have considerable trouble with 
 the childi'eu, arriving as you did, at so late an 
 
20S EDVVAliD WEED. 
 
 hour in the evening. I was afraid too that you. 
 or the children might contract violent cold, 
 by the exposure. I hope you vaW do what 
 you can to improve your liealth. Since you 
 left, I think I have steadily improved. The 
 bloat, so far as I can perceive, has entirely dis- 
 appeared from my whole system. My cold 
 and cough are almost entirely gone. Were 
 my digestion what it should be, I should think 
 myself healed, and though my bowel com- 
 plaint continues, 1 daily gain streng-th. I 
 
 think I shall meet you at "VV a week from 
 
 next Saturday, or the following Monday. 
 Should anything occur to prevent, I will write 
 and let you know. I like your suggestion — 
 the same thing suggested itself to my own 
 mind. Had we a home, I think I could j^rac- 
 tice the water treatment, exercise on horse- 
 back, and otherwise, so as to recruit my 
 strength, equally as well as here. While I 
 have been writing^he doctor brought me in 
 
 a letter from Brother W , containing ^20. 
 
 llemember me affectionately to your friends. 
 Kiss the dear little boys for me." 
 
 '" Ivl( IILAND, Si'2?t. ISth. 
 " Last Sabbath eve I was attacked with a 
 violent diarrhoea, which has continued until the 
 present. I am, however, much better this 
 
FAITH AKT) WORKS. 20f) 
 
 moniiDg. Still it lias weakened ine, and made 
 it necessary tliat I should bo very careful of 
 my d.et, and guard against over exertion ; 
 consequently, I shall not meet you as I anti- 
 cipated. I think the exertion will be too much 
 for me. I tliink you had better return hero 
 next Wednesday week, so that we can liavc 
 Thursday to pack (uir things, and be ready for 
 an early start Friday morning." 
 
 "Your letter I received Saturday eve. I 
 was glad to hear from you and the children. 
 My heart cleaves to you, as my great earthly 
 treasures; enhanced in value by tlie fact that 
 you are immortal, and that Me shall have an 
 eternal interest in each other. You express 
 sorrow that you could not be with me last 
 week. 1 am right glad you were not hei'c. 
 Your company, sympathy, and attention w^mld 
 have been very precious and grateful to me ; 
 but it would have been purchased at great ex- 
 pense to you. You would probably have 
 over exerted yourself. So I think what has 
 been, is best. Last week was one of the most 
 severe and trying I have experienced. Yes- 
 terday I had a very bad, discouraging day. 
 Last night I rested sweetly, and this morn- 
 ing I am much better. All my sjTnptoms 
 
210 EDWAIH) AVEED. 
 
 are improved. I have jnst received a letter 
 from Brotlicr F — ■ — ; he thinks I had better 
 not think of trying to do anything this fall 
 and winter, and gives us a cordial invitation 
 
 to spend tlie winter M'ith tliem. Brother P 
 
 has also written, informing ine of their safe 
 
 arrival at their beloved home. Brother C 
 
 and family have escaped the desolating scoui"ge, 
 and are now Avell, at their own home in San-* 
 
 dusky city. B. M lies at the point of death. 
 
 lie may be dead while I write ; it will be a 
 di-cadful blow to tlie family." 
 
 MeddcomlU^ Oct. 3rd, 18^9. 
 
 "Deaii Brother C : — No language 
 
 can express tlie grateful feelings I have 
 towards you for the interest you have taken in 
 my case, and the exertions you have put forth 
 in my behalf during my afSiction. It lias 
 strengthened and refreshed my spint exceed- 
 ingly. I have no doubt, the Great She])herd of 
 the sheep, will abundantly reward you for this 
 your kindness to one of his unworthy little 
 ones. .The aid and sympathy of my dear 
 Christian brethren and sisters in the Lord have 
 been to me a source of great C(jmfortand conso- 
 ]atit)n ; it has made me feeltliat the Lord has 
 given mo a memorial in their hearts, that their 
 love is not in word and tongue, but in deed 
 
FAn"n AND WORKS. 211 
 
 and in truth. I could not have got, along with- 
 out their aid, and what I have received lias 
 been nearl}' equal to my expenses, so that tlie 
 supply and the deinatid have been almost ex- 
 actly balanced. The articles of clothing you 
 sent me are just what I wanted, and are excel- 
 lent fits. Since I hist wrote you T have passed 
 throu<rh a ffood deal of sufferinoj. I have been 
 covered with boils and sores. The bloat has 
 entirely left me, but it has left me a perfect 
 skeleton, literally nothing but skin and bones. 
 By careful nursing and great prudence on my 
 part, I think I shall recover. I have got now 
 where the ver}' active treatment is not needed; 
 indeed it is required to be suspended. The 
 treatment I am now taking is very simple, and 
 can be taken at home as well as anywhere else. 
 I have therefore left the Hall, hired some 
 apai'tment-^ in this place, where we can get our 
 little family together, and live on less than it 
 Would cost me individually at the Hall. I 
 have confidence that our temporal wants will 
 he supplied. The goodness of our Heavenly 
 Father in this respect during my sickness luis 
 been wonderful — contemplating it often causes 
 me to shed te.trs*. F(^r the last few weeks I 
 have been enabled to use my mental faculties 
 more, and consequentl}' have enjoyed the truth 
 more. Indeed, my whole soul has been filled 
 
212 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 witli the most precious and endearing views of 
 the Saviour; I have dwelt with great delight 
 upon the 14th, 15th, 16th, and iTtli chapters of 
 John's Gospel. 
 
 " Odoher \Qith. — I commenced this letter 
 a week since, but was obliged to suspend its 
 completion on account of weakness. For a da}' 
 or two I despaired of life — all seemed lost — it 
 was the regular crisis. Through tlie goodness 
 of God, however, it lias terminated on the side 
 of health. I feel that the Rubicon is passed, 
 and that 1 shall get well. My expectations 
 may be too sanguine — a mistake in treatment, 
 or a little imprudence in eating or exercise, 
 might send me quickly to the grave." 
 
 " Mexicoville, Nov. 17th, 1849. 
 
 "Deae Bro. C : — Your last was duly 
 
 received, and should have been answered be- 
 fore, but I have to treat you, as I treat all my 
 friends, to write to them as I have time and 
 strength. You have no idea what an effort it 
 is for me to write, even a short letter. It has 
 sometiines been ten or twelve days together, 
 that I could not make any continued intellec- 
 tual elibrt. Oh, to have the spirit thus re- 
 strained and chained by feeble flesh, is slavery 
 indeed ! I think I practically understand Rom. 
 viii. 18-23. For the last six or seven days 1 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 213 
 
 Lave been gaining again more rapidly. I liope 
 by prudence I may continue to do so. My ex- 
 pectations have, however, been so grievously 
 disappointed heretofore, that I dare not speak 
 with much confidence. These chronic com- 
 plaints are inveterate things — may the Lord 
 grant that you may never be seized with the 
 bony, clammy fingers of any of their nu- 
 merous tribe. You are still heaping fresh obli- 
 gations upon me May the Lord reward you 
 an hundred fold. I think we have commenced 
 housekeeping since I last wrote you. Our place 
 is narrow and somewhat inconvenient, still we 
 are very comfortable, and I trust duly thankful 
 that we have even a little spot that we can call 
 home. After six months scatteration, we can 
 appreciate that ' there is no place like home.' 
 We live plain and economically. Our resour- 
 ces, for the future, are small. How wiiat we 
 shall need is to be raised, we know not, but feel 
 sweetly to trust in that good Providence who 
 lias so bountifully supplied all our wants here- 
 tofore. Though shut up and restrained by fee- 
 ble flesh, my mind is not altogether inactive. 
 I think I am daily increasing in the knowledge 
 of the Lord, and I hope also in his grace. 
 
 " N(yvem}jer 26th. — Since I wrote you. last 
 my health has continued to improve, and the 
 r>rospect now is of a complete recovery. I am 
 
21 i EDWARD WEED. 
 
 still troubled with mj original disease, the pa- 
 rent of all nij ills, the. irritation of the mucous 
 nienilirane of my stomach ; but notwithstand- 
 ing this, I am gaining; llesh and strengtli every 
 day. The doctor thinks, as my general health 
 improves, this will wear away. We arejiappy 
 and comfortable in our little home. Though 
 sliort of funds at present, we can trust our 
 Heavenly Father." 
 
 " Mexicoville, Jan. 2M, 1850. 
 
 " Dear Bro. C : — For some eight or ten 
 
 days I have been endeavoring to summon en- 
 ergy to write to you. This morning, as I felt 
 better than usual, I had made up my mind to 
 do so to-day, when your somewhat unexpected 
 epistle, with the enclosed $15, was brought in. 
 I have not room, time nor power, to express to 
 you the gratitude I feel to you, for yr >ur attention 
 to, and considerate care of my wants, in those my 
 da3'S of protracted illness. The Lord will reward 
 you for it. And I wish you to i-eturn my hearty 
 thanks to those who have ministered of their 
 substance to my necessities. I am making 
 some progress toward health. But my stomach 
 does not heal, and since the dropsy left me I 
 have suffered much from mucous inflammation. 
 My stomach is sore and my mouth is raw. My 
 lungs are sound and appetite good. I suppose 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 215 
 
 my disease is a simple uncomplicated case of 
 ' chronic Gastritis.' It is the opinion of phy- 
 sicians here, and it is my own opinion, that a 
 sea voyage to Florida, the West Indies, or Rio 
 Janeiro, would effect in me a complete cure. 
 Nothing but the want of funds hinders my tak- 
 ing the voyage at once. All things have been 
 shaping themselves of late, to favor my going. 
 Four weeks ago my funds were reduced to 
 forty-four cents ; my flour and wood were 
 nearly out, and myself lacking several ar- 
 ticles of clothing, indispensable to my go- 
 ing abroad. Since then I have received $60 
 in cash, the garments I needed most, and 
 provisions in the line of food, enough to last us 
 until the first of April, with the exception of 
 meat and milk. Though afflicted, feeble, and 
 chained on everj^ hand, my mind is kept in 
 perfect peace ; I indulge in no anxiety as to the 
 future. Whatever is the allotment of Provi- 
 dence, I shall be content. 1 sympathize with 
 you in all your labors, trials and success, and 
 do not forget you at a throne of grace." 
 
 " Mexicoville, Jan. 2Sd. 
 
 "Dear Bro. F : — Your letter, with the 
 
 enclosed $15, came duly and safely to hand, 
 We were glad to hear from you, and thankful 
 for your bounty ; at the same time we feel 
 
216 rmvAKD wef.d. 
 
 pained to he obliged to receive charity from 
 our friends, and fearful lest your bount}' to us 
 might embarrass and distress yourself. I am 
 afraid, dear brother, that you have been more 
 liberal to us than you can afford. 1 know it is 
 said in the scriptures, that ' he that sowetli 
 bountifully, shall also reap bountifully.' I am 
 Btill a poor feeble man ; my prospects for imme- 
 diate recovery are exceedingly dull. My origi- 
 nal disease, 'Gastritis,' clmgs to me with the 
 pertinacity of a lion to his prey. I think it 
 very probable the dropsy may set in again and 
 carry rae off. The will of my Heavenly Fa- 
 ther be done. I indulge in no anxieties for the 
 future. ' Sufficient unto the day is the evil 
 thereof.' ' Give us this day our daily bread,' 
 'Jehovah Jireth.' Though there is a great and 
 wonderful change in our circumstances, we are 
 happy and contented. We have not suffered 
 for want of any of the common comforts of life. 
 Though our resources have at all times been 
 small, our measure of meal and cruse of oil 
 have not failed. AVe trust they will not. Love" 
 to you all, and a heart full of gratitude." 
 
 " Mexicoville, Feh. 26^A. 
 "Dear Cochran: — Your letter came to 
 hand Saturday evening. It found me not so 
 well as when I wrote to Dr. B . Indeed, I 
 
KAHU AND WOKKS. 217 
 
 am considerably weaker now than 1 was tlien. 
 Tlie pliysicians, liowever, advise me to prose- 
 cute my intended journey east ; to take it in 
 easy stages, as my strength will admit. Mrs. 
 
 W will accompany me, to nurse and wait 
 
 ,on me. If the journey should do me good, and 
 the change of climate and sea-breeze be favora- 
 ble in its effects upon me, she will return in a 
 few weeks; ifnof, Isliali return witii her. Will 
 you take pains to find us a room in some good 
 boarding-house, on the first floor, where we can 
 have a bed and fire; it injures me very much 
 to go up and down stairs. I wish its location 
 may be near the public stages. It is our inten- 
 tion to start on Thursday, the 28th inst., expect- 
 ing to reach New York to-morrow week. Will 
 you oblige us by meeting us at the landing 
 with a suitable carriage, to conduct us to our 
 lodgings. If we do not meet you there we 
 shall venture to go dir-ectly to your house.'- 
 
CnAPTER XYIL 
 
 LEAVES MEXTCOVnXE GOES TO NEW YORK 
 
 HEALTH IMPROVES SAILS FOR LIVKRPOOL. 
 
 Mr. Wkkd, whose strength had again com- 
 menced failing very rapidly, left Mexicoville, 
 as anticipated, intending to go to New York 
 for the benefit of the sea air, and medical ad- 
 vice. He had been so well at one time, during 
 his stay in M., that he preached several times 
 for his brother, though the exertion was no 
 doubt a great detriment to his health. ■ AVhen 
 he was ready to start on his journey he could 
 not walk across the room without fainting, and 
 was carried out of his house in a chair, and in 
 that helpless state was lifted into the stage, 
 tiie last of February, and when the ruads 
 were ver^ unsettled Some of his friends 
 felt, that in all probability, he was leaving 
 his iiome to die on the way. But as he be- 
 lieved, directed by Providence, he had decided 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 219 
 
 upon the best course to pursue, witli the sub- 
 mission and trust of ti child, he left the result 
 with his Heavenly Father. He was much ex- 
 hausted bj his journey, and for some days there 
 seemed to be but a step between him and <leath. 
 A council of physiciaus was called, who ex- 
 pressed only a faint ray of hope, which was 
 based almost entirely on. his own hopefulness 
 of his case. But his hour had not yet come — ■ 
 the medicine and sea-air acted like a charm, 
 and once more his friends were elated with the 
 hope of his nltimate restoration to health and 
 usefulness. It was decided, that all things 
 considered, his continued residence in New 
 York was desirable. Apartments were accord- 
 ingly obtained there, and his family removed 
 thither the first of May. The last of May, he 
 penned the following letter to his brother: — 
 
 " Nkw York, Jfai/ SOfh, 1850. 
 " My Dear Bkothkr: — I luive delayed writ- 
 ing to you, a long time, simply because I have 
 lacked the energy to address myself to the ef- 
 fort. My disease has produced such a general 
 feeling of lassitude, and such inability to en- 
 gage in any protracted mental effort, that it 
 really seems to me u herculean task to write a 
 short friendly letter. My health has gradually 
 improved ever since I came to the city. The 
 
220 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 homeopathic remedies have acted with greater 
 power than tiie water practice, and with almost 
 infinitely less labor and suffering. My symp- 
 toms are altogether better than they have been, 
 at any previous period of my sickness. I can 
 ride all over the city, and walk half a mile 
 without injury. "We have now g(jt settled, have 
 a comfurtable residence, and feel happy in our 
 situation. The Lord is still dealing with us 
 witn a kind and bountiful hand ; thus far all 
 our wants have been supplied, and' we have no 
 reason to fear that they will not continue to be. 
 I find it exceed iui^ly trying to be laid aside so 
 long, to be nothing but a dead dog, when such 
 stirring events are constantly transpiring around 
 me, and when the harvest is so ripe and so 
 abundant, and the call for laborers so urgent. 
 To be thus laid aside, is the most trying part 
 of my affliction." 
 
 Some time in June he visited Paterson, 
 and on the Sabbath, for an hour, addressed 
 his former congregation, subsequently spend- 
 ing a day or two in calling on friends there. 
 But it was an effort beyond his strength, 
 and for a week or more after his return home 
 he lay entirely prostrated by it. He, however, 
 soon rallied, and commenced sea-bathing, which 
 proved very beneficial. 
 
FAITH AND AVOUKS. 221 
 
 The following letter wjis addressed to his 
 eldest son, who had been put in care of his ma- 
 ternal aunt, and to whom the subjoined letter 
 was sent at the same time : — 
 
 " New York, June Titli, 1850. 
 " My bear child Bp:nny : — Your father was 
 very sorry that he did not have the op])ortu- 
 nity of seeing you before you went to Ohio. 
 You remember he was very sick when he left 
 Mexicoville. lie grew worse and worse until 
 he reached New York. "When he arrived there 
 he was almost dead. All the doctors shook 
 their heads, and doubted whether he would 
 ever recover. Tliey, however, commenced giv- 
 ing him medicine, which at once had a good 
 effect. lie began to get better, and has been 
 improving ever since. His health is much bet- 
 ter now than it has been since he was first taken 
 sick. All the doctors and friends now think he 
 will get well. lie is strong enough to ride all 
 over the city in the publi<} stages, and to walk 
 a mile or more at a time. His slee}) is regular 
 aiul refreshing, his appetite good, and his coun- 
 tenance and whole appearance changed for the 
 better. He hopes, through the good providence 
 of God, to be a well man again. In the meau 
 time, he feels very anxious for you. He wants 
 you to be a good boy, and to grow up aud be a 
 
222 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 good, intelligent and useful man. He often 
 thinks of you on his bed, and prays God that 
 he will keep you in all your ways, and that he 
 •will send his Holy Spirit, and savingly impress 
 his blessed truth upon your heart. I have said 
 I wanted you to be a good hoy. I will tell you 
 of some of the things I wish you to do. 
 
 " 1st, I wisli you to cultivate the haiut of 
 praying to God, and of trying to please him in 
 all that you do. 
 
 "2d, I wish you to cultivate the habitof strict 
 obedience to those who have the care of you. 
 
 "3d, I wish yuu to be very careful to culti- 
 vate the habit of pui'e conveisation — never to 
 speak filthy words, silly words, lies, nor swear. 
 Don't use your tongue, my dear boy, fur any 
 evil. 
 
 "4th, I wish you to cultivate the habitof 
 kindness and gentleness in your intercourse 
 ■with, and treatment of others. 
 
 " 5th, I wish you to be an industrious boy — 
 i-eady to work, ready to study and ready to 
 play. 
 
 " 6th, I wish you to be a neat tidy boy — to 
 take a great deal of pains to keep yourself, your 
 clothes, your books, and every thing you have, 
 neat and in good order. 
 
 " 7th, I wish you to be a polite boy, or a boy 
 of good manners. This im^jlies propriety of 
 
FArrn and wokks. 223 
 
 conduct, good liabits of eating, sitting, wall<Iiig, 
 conversing, and attention to the rights and 
 ])aj)])iiiess of others. 
 
 " 8th, Finally, I wish yon to tiy in all thu 
 things I have mentioned, to improve yourself, 
 and to pray the Lord to helj) you to do so. If 
 you daily endeavor to be good, in the seven 
 respects I have mentioned, yon cannot but be 
 a good boy, and you will become bettei-, hap- 
 pier and more lovcl}', every day. Will you 
 get your aunt to read these seven things, 
 over and over to you, until you get them all 
 fixed in your mind, and then try, with all your 
 might, to be what your father desires you to 
 be, in these respects. 
 
 " My dear boy, may God hless you. Your 
 mother is very well, and sends a great deal of 
 love to you. Josephine, P^ddy and Albert are 
 well, and right by my side, playing merrily. 
 They all say, send love to Benny. They often 
 talk about you and wish you were liere. AVe 
 liave a cool pretty house to live in, with a nice 
 flower garden in front. The great city, with 
 its perpetual noise, is all around ; still we are 
 very hapi)y and contented. It may be that I 
 shall go to Mount Yernoii in the fall. As soon 
 as I get well I shall have you come home. 
 You must get your aunt S to write a letter 
 
224 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 for you. You can tell her what you want her 
 to say. FarewcU, my boy." 
 
 Tlie following letter to his aunt, accompa- 
 nied the above : — 
 
 " Dear Sister S : — AYe expected to 
 
 have heard from you before this. Of course, 
 we are anxious to know how it fares with our 
 dear child. At the same time, you may rest 
 assured that we luive the fullest contidence 
 tliat you will do all in your ])o\ver for liis wel- 
 fare. I thought my writing to him would be 
 a stimulus to lead him on in the riglit way, 
 and thus be an assistance to you. As to my 
 liealth, and our circunistaiices generally, you 
 will learn the particulars in what I have v/rit- 
 teu to Benny. We are very comfortably situ- 
 ated.. We t\'e\ that tht^ Lord has ordered all 
 things graciously, in reference to us. We en- 
 deavor to rest under the shadow of his wings. 
 Is it decided that you remove to the west? 
 What time will you go ? I should like to visit 
 Mount Yernon next fall, if my liealth and 
 
 means will perniit. I presume Bro. S has 
 
 received my letter before this, llemember me 
 
 to him and toE ; also, to all the friends. 
 
 Will you write soon ? Wife joins me, in love 
 to yourself and husband." 
 
FAI'lll AM J) WOiiKS. 226 
 
 About the lir.st of July, Mr. AVced received 
 an invitatiou t'vom Oaptaiu Kaii^lit, the coui- 
 mander of the New Wurhl, sailing between 
 New York and Liverpool, to go in liis ship to 
 Liverpool on its next voyage out. After hav- 
 ing advised with his physicians, who gave their 
 hearty consent, he accepted the invitation, 
 and accordingly sailed from New York in the 
 packet ship above named. lie went out alone, 
 with no kind attendant to anticipate his wants, 
 and meet the exigences attending his debility 
 as an invalid. He was dependent upon his 
 friends for a scanty outfit, and necessarily left 
 his family unprovided for, at home. A great 
 sacrifice of feeling was made, (compelled by 
 the needs be of poverty,) in that parting hour, 
 and through months of painful anxious sepa- 
 ration. Great faith was needed to meet 
 these trying scenes with cheerfulness, and un- 
 shaken confidence in the hand of Infinite 
 wisdom and love, that dispensed them. But 
 strong hopes were entertained that he would 
 return well, and be able again to assume his 
 wonted labors. 
 
 " Ship New World, Capt. KInight, ) 
 Thursday, July I8th, 1850. ) 
 " My Dear Bro. Tuomas : — I sincerely re- 
 gret that I did not get a letter from you before 
 
226 KDWAKD WEKD. 
 
 setting out on this tour. I luive undertaken 
 the present voyage b_y tlie advice of my phy- 
 sicians, Drs. Ball, Yanderburg, and Ward. 
 Their views fully harmonized upon the sub- 
 ject. We have been out nine days, havejust 
 entered on the tenth, have had line weather, 
 and average about six miles an hour. We 
 liave been for the last two days sailing in the 
 fog and over the banks of Newfoundland. 
 Our ship moves through the water with great 
 quietness. I have no more difficulty in writ- 
 ing here than I should have on shore. For 
 the first four or live days all the passengers 
 were sick. I was somewhat affected, but not 
 near so much so as most. It is the opinion of 
 all my ship-mates that I have greatly im- 
 proved since I came on board. I think my 
 voyage will have the desired effect; I am bet- 
 ter now, and stronger, than I have been at an 3' 
 previous time since I was taken sick. I begin 
 to look like my former self, and I think my 
 chronic difficulty, my original complaint, is 
 giving way. 
 
 " I am still the child of Providence — I go 
 forth not knowing whither I go, how long I 
 shall stay, or what shall befall me. My motto 
 is still, ''Jehovah Jireth,^ joined M'ith tlie 
 prayer, ' Give me this day my daily bread.' 
 And 1 feel that there is a Divine Providence, 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 227 
 
 presiding over and directing my every step. I 
 should like to sit down by your side, and tell 
 you of the Lord's wonderful dealings \vitli me 
 since you helped to put me on board the stage 
 at Mexico. It has been to me a perfect mar- 
 vel. I think it would l)e to you. How often 
 do I think of tlie first verse of the old hymn 
 we so frequently sing in our social meetings : 
 
 ' When I can read my title clear 
 
 To mansions in the skies, 
 I'll bid farewell to every fear 
 And wipe my weeping eyes. 
 
 What has a man to fear, or cry about, when he 
 has this title clear? I may stay in England 
 one, three months, or a year ; all remains to 
 be developed by events yet to occur. This is 
 my first mental eitbrt since coming on board. 
 ''Friday, \Uh.—K\\ aboard are well, the 
 weather line, and we are progressing on our 
 regular route at the rate of about seven knots 
 per hour. My health is about the same as 
 yesterday. Thus far all is harmony and con- 
 cord. "We do not appear to have a cross, ugly 
 spirit aboard. Love and kindness seems to 
 pervade the whole company. We have also 
 an excellent crew ; every thing goes like clock- 
 work. Thus far our voyage has been a de- 
 lightful one. Our leisure time is filled up 
 
228. EDWARD WEED. 
 
 with reading, exercise, conversation, lectures, 
 mingled with appropriate religious exercises. 
 
 ^^ Fiida y, J ul u 'liith. — Dear Brother, a week 
 has elapsed since 1 laid down my pen in writ- 
 ing to you. We are still upon the ocean 
 waves, making good progress towards our de- 
 sired haven. Thus far all has been prosper- 
 ous, except that scourge of all ocean travel- 
 lers, sea-sickness, visited us again as we got 
 off the banks of Newfoundland, and the 
 breeze strengthened. Since last Saturday we 
 have averaged nine knots j)er hour, sometimes 
 going thirteen. We have had all sorts of 
 weather, except the violent storm — rainy, show- 
 ery, fair, warm, and cold. All is pleasant and 
 agreeable on board. We have an exceedingly 
 refined, intelligent, and noble-minded set of 
 passengers. Of them I will say more at an- 
 other time. We expect to see Cape Clear to- 
 morrow. We are now about two hundred 
 miles from there — shall probably land at Liv- 
 erpool Monday, making our voyage one of 
 twenty days. My health still improves. 
 
 " Monday, July 'iSith. — Dear Brother : — 
 Three days have intervened since I bade you 
 good morning. Two of these days we had a 
 splendid sail, averaging ten knots per hour. 
 Saturday morning, early, we came in sight of 
 Cape Clear, the south-west point of Ireland, 
 
FAITH AJNI) WOIiKS. 229 
 
 and entered wli:it is called St. George's Cluiii- 
 nel. All day, with a lair wind, we sailed 
 along the Irish coast, say within tiv^e miles of 
 it. It was a grand and pleasant view. The 
 80 called nu^uiitains of Ireland, are what we 
 should call hills, and are cultivated to t.heir 
 summits. We could see the meadows, grain 
 fields, villages, country seats, castles and tow- 
 ers. At night the ship tacked and stood for 
 the Welch coast. Yesterday morning we were 
 in full view of the Welch mountains, but be- 
 calmed. During the whole day, our noble 
 ship made but four or five miles headway. 
 Some of our passengers were impatient, but 
 most of them "received the dispensation with 
 quiet calmness. It was a splendid day, and 
 we were continually surrounded with nnde- 
 finable and indescribable beauty and gran- 
 deur. I am never tired of looking at the sea. 
 The varied, pleasing, and intense emotions en- 
 kindled by the view, cannot be expressed. 
 The proper conception of it can be obtained 
 only by the sight. This morning we found 
 ourselves otf Holy-Head, on the island of An- 
 glesey, Wales — the coast of Wales fully, an ^ I 
 might say gloriously in view. The weather 
 is fine, but the breezes light, and we are mak- 
 ing very little progress. Are now about fifty 
 or sixty miles from Liverpool. We do not ex- 
 
230 KUWAKl) WF.ICD. 
 
 jDect to arrive there until to-morrow. All is 
 Btill prosperous and pleasant on board the ship. 
 I am treated with the greatest kindness and 
 respect. Unbeknown to me, a purse of ten 
 pound was made up for my aid, by the Cap- 
 tain and four others: The goodness and mercy 
 of God attends me. His love fills me, and his 
 light guides me. I go forth literally a child 
 of Providence, not knowing wliither I go. I 
 have, however, no fear. My hope, my trust, 
 isTn God alone. I shall endeavor not to take 
 a single step, without his clear light shining 
 on ni}^ path. I shall write to you as I have 
 time and ojiportuuity. I shall expect to re- 
 ceive frc(picut communications from you. 
 Mucli love to the friends ; I feel a tender inte- 
 rest in them all, and a load of oblii::ation for 
 their kindness to me. The Lord reward them. 
 My health continues to improve. 
 
 '-^ July 30th. — AVe are safel}^ moored in the 
 Liverpool harbor. We have had a delightful 
 passage. My health is greatly imin-oved." 
 
 " Snip, Jul// 'lOth, 1850. 
 " My Dear Wifk : — -It is with ])eculiar emo- 
 tions that I sit dmvn to write to you. The 
 manner in M'hich you interested and exerted 
 yourself to enable me to go this voyage, greatly 
 endeared you to me. I felt that there was a 
 
FAITH AND WOKlvS. 2ol 
 
 sacrifice and givino; up your own comfort, for 
 my sake, that culled upon me for the liearti- 
 est acknowledgment aiid the liveliest grati- 
 tude. You may be assured that my heart 
 and eyes, turn not only with deep, but also 
 with the sweetest interest, toward No. 1 E. 
 llth-street. New York. To me it is a sacred 
 spot. You are undoubtedly anxious to know 
 the effect of the voyage upon my health. My- 
 self, and all m}' fellow-passengers, are of the 
 opinion that I have been greatly benefitted. 
 My circulation is much better, my strength 
 considerably increased, and the mucous irrita- 
 tion not nearly so great as when I left home. 
 Thus far our voyage has been a very pleasant 
 one. I have been treated with great kindness 
 by my fellow-passengers. The Lord raises up 
 friends for me wherever I go. 
 
 " 25^A, — Five days have intervened since I 
 commenced this to you. "We are still upon 
 the great waters, and making good progress 
 towards om* destined port. Saturday eve- 
 ning, the sea grew rough, and many of 
 our passengers had a retnrn of sea-sickness, 
 and were confined to their berths all day 
 Sabbath. Of course, we had no religious 
 services. I have stood the voyage well, have 
 lost but two meals since I came aboard, gained 
 strength daily, and have been able to take 
 
232 EDWARD AVKICD. 
 
 care of myself without any extra help. Mr. 
 Beeclier has been sea-sick nearly all the way, 
 and confined mostly to his berth. Still, lie 
 and all of us, think it is doing him good. 
 
 '"'' July Both. — It is with emotions of joy and 
 gratitude to God, that I announce our safe ar- 
 rival in Liverpool harbor. Mercy and good- 
 ness has thus far attended me. I hope to be 
 prudent in the use of my strength. I have 
 
 formed a high opinion of Mr. and Mrs. S ; 
 
 they know the truth as it is in Jesus. They 
 will return with the ship, and will call and see 
 you. Judge W and wife have been par- 
 ticularly kind to me." 
 
CHAPTER XYIII. 
 
 LETTEKS FKOM ENGLAifD. JOURNAL. 
 
 ' Liverpool, Aug. St?. 
 " My Dear Wife : — I wrote you very fully 
 by the ' Niagara,' but was greatly disappointed 
 on my arrival here not to find any coininuni- 
 cation from you. I hope you will not be re- 
 miss in writing to n.ie, Renieniber, that I am 
 sick and alone in a foreign country, and that I 
 shall be anxious to hear from j'ou at every ar- 
 rival. Tuesday and "VTednesday I overdid, 
 ■wiiicH made me very feeble. What will be 
 the final result I cannot tell. Much will de- 
 pend upon my prudence. I have cnrntbrtable 
 lodgings and wholesome food, in a Welsh fam- 
 ily. The house is but a i^iw rods from the 
 great Liverpool docks. I shall go to Wales 
 (D. Y.) next week. 
 
231 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 " LivKRPOoL, Aug. 9th. 
 " You see, I am still in this city. I expect 
 to leave this P. M. at live for Chester, where 
 I shall stay a few days, and then proceed on to 
 Wales. I received your letter per the ' Atlan- 
 tic' I cannot tell you how much good it did 
 me. I wept like a child ; and when you told 
 of the children's sickness, and their asking ' whj' 
 does not father come back V streams flowed 
 down my cheeks — which, as I write about it, 
 start aijain. I cannot tell you how my heart 
 yearns over you and m^- little ones. I trust a 
 brighter d;iy will soon dawn upon us. This is 
 the third letter I have written you since land- 
 ing. The ' Europa' sails to-morrow, and T 
 Could not let the opportunity pass without say- 
 ing a word to you. When I last wrote I was 
 quite unwell. I am now much better than I 
 have been since I was taken sick. I trust, by 
 the blessing of God and due care on my part, 
 my health will be restored. I send by this 
 steamer two papers for the little boys. Tell 
 them all you can about me, that I remefiiber 
 and pray for them daily, and hope before a 
 iireat while to ' come back' and see them. Do 
 not be anxious about means — the Lord will 
 provide." 
 
FAirn AND WORKS. 235 
 
 " ClIKSTER, Au(/. 12th. 
 
 "My Dkar Brotiikr P : — From tlic 
 
 heading of my letter yon will perceive that I 
 am in old England. The Providence that lias 
 brought me hei-e has, indeed, been peculirtr, 
 3'et I see clearly iu it all the hand of my 
 Heavenly Father, I doubt not he has both 
 directed and guided my footsteps hither. My 
 health has greatly improved since I left 
 liome, and is still advancing. I am, at present, 
 very pleasantly situated in a lovely Christian 
 family, they are as kind and attentive as' 
 though they were my own kindred. The town 
 is not only a very ancient one, abounding with 
 ancient antiquities, but is also most deliglit- 
 fully situated. I shall probably remain here 
 some weeks. The climate is good, and I have 
 the jirospect that m.y health will be restored. 
 I trust I shall be able again to resume my la- 
 Ixn's as a minister of the Lord Jesus Chi'ist. 
 My afflictions have been protracted and severe, 
 yet I feel that God has ordered them all in 
 mercy. I needed the burning ordeal, and I 
 pray that it may accomplish that, in and for 
 me, for which heaven has sent it upon me. 
 You may think I am having a very easy and 
 pleasant time of it. I am happy, ray mind is 
 peaceful, but it arises from spiritual conso- 
 lation, and not from worldly enjoyments. I 
 
236 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 am too feeble to enjoy si<:;lit-seeing, or for toin'- 
 iiig about to see the wonders of this great and 
 ancient kingdom. Still, I begin to enjoy my- 
 self somewhat in this way. The city I am 
 now in is situated on the banks of the river 
 Dee, and is one of the oldest boroughs of Eng- 
 land. It was a place of some importance un- 
 der the Romans before the Cliristian Era. It 
 has a wall surrounding the whule city, sur- 
 mtnmted by old towers, and affording a very 
 beautiful promenade. It is about lifteen miles 
 'suiith of Liverpool, and contains about 30,000 
 
 population. Will you and J write to me ? 
 
 It would cheer me much to get a letter from 
 you in this land of strangers. Love to all the 
 dear friends." 
 
 " CnESTER, Aug. 15th. 
 
 "My Dear Wife: — Yesterday I received 
 your second letter, it was to me like water in a 
 tljirsty land. While reading streams ran down 
 my cheeks. I cannot express how much my 
 heart turns to you and the dear children. I 
 have but one consolation, that is, committing 
 you to the care of II im who has told us to cast 
 all our care on Ilhn^ for he careth for us. 
 
 " Dear little A r? ^^ow I should love to 
 
 hold him in my arms and press him to my 
 bosom ! I somehow have a confidence that 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 237 
 
 the Lord will spare him to us. I am glad you 
 are led to lean upon the promises of the Lord. 
 They are our inheritance and support, and he 
 who has made them is the faithful God, and 
 lives to make them good. You will perceive 
 by the heading of my letter that I have left 
 
 L for C . This town is one of the 
 
 most ancient in England, and is the shire town 
 of Cheshire county, situated on the river Dee. 
 The view is enchanting, the air fresh and in- 
 vigorating. Tiiis, too, was the scene of the 
 laboi's of the excellent and piou? Matthew 
 Henry, the commentator; and here his hon- 
 ored dust reposes. 
 
 " Here also now Kev. R. Knill, formerly 
 missionary to St. Petersburg, and author of 
 several Christian tracts, has a chapel. I have 
 made his acquaintance and that of his truly 
 Christian family. They have been deeply 
 afflicted, and know how to succor their breth- 
 ren in distress. Providence has directed me 
 to excellent lodgings, with a kind, pious "Welsh 
 family. I am treated with as much care and 
 kindness as though I was one of the family. 
 Indeed I never had xny every want more plea- 
 santly anticipated. Mrs. T , who is a de- 
 voted Christian, does what she does for me for 
 Christ's sake, because she esteems me a ser- 
 vant of his. I shall probably remain here a 
 
238 EDWAltD WEED. 
 
 week or ten days longer. For tlie last twenty- 
 four hours I have been very feeble, and doubts 
 arise in my mind about my ever getting well, 
 though I have increased in health and strength 
 since I left home." 
 
 " Liverpool, Aug. 22d. 
 " I came to this city yesterday P. M. to see 
 
 Captain K , and Rev, Mr. and Mrs. S 
 
 before they sail. To-morrow the ' New World' 
 sails for New York. I make my abode still 
 with the same family in Chester. They are 
 such a delightful household I shall regret leav- 
 ing them. My health is improving, I have 
 gained flesh, and my color is good ; my stom- 
 ach and bowel difficulty do not leave me. 
 Wiiat is before me, life or death, health or 
 sickness, I know not. But my chief desire, 
 and my most earnest prayer is, that the will of 
 God be done. At present I am paying very 
 strict attention to my diet and all my habits ; 
 and my heart is greatly drawn out in prayer, 
 that God will glorify himself in me. I have 
 never felt before, so much as I have of late, 
 that I could not pray fur anything definite in 
 the way of temporal blessings. I feel that I 
 do not know what is best tor me. My only 
 prayer is. Lord, direct, thou knowest what is 
 best. I expect this morning to go to Man- 
 
FAITH AND WOKlvS. 239 
 
 Chester, where I shall probably abide until 
 Monday, and then return to C^iester, and from 
 there go to North "Wales, where I intend to re- 
 main some weeks in the country. I wrote last 
 
 week to Brother F . He has closed his 
 
 laboi-s in London, wliere he has been greatly 
 successful. If I return home this fall I shall 
 probably leave here about the 11th of October. 
 Should my health improve, so that I can en- 
 gage in labor, I shall remain and try to earn 
 something before I return. I feel a great re- 
 luctance to return sick and be still a burden to 
 my friends. My heart still turns towards our 
 little abode. What a comfort it would be to 
 see you and the dear cliildren ! May God, in 
 his infinite mercy, comfort and console you." 
 
 " Parkgate, Aug. SOth. 
 " I am still in Cheshire county. This place 
 is about twelve miles below Chester, on the 
 river Dee, and is a delightful country village, 
 most enchantingly situated. It spreads itself 
 along in a direct line on the Dee, which is 
 here between two and three miles wide. A 
 solid wall, built of hard red sandstone, extends 
 some four miles along the bank of the river, 
 which aiFords a most admirable promenade. 
 On the opposite side of the river is the princi- 
 pality of Wales, presenting a most j/icture.squo 
 
240 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 and pleasing scene. And what adds greatly 
 to the loveliness of the whole is, it is now in 
 the height of their harvost. This place is dis- 
 tinguished for its healthful ness, fine sea-breezes, 
 and facilities for sea-bathing. I came here 
 last "Wednesday, and expect to remain until 
 Monday. When {Deo volente) I shall cross 
 over into AVales, visit Conway, and a celebra- 
 ted watering-place near. At present I am 
 aiming at one single point, the restoration of 
 my health. A great improvement has taken 
 place during the last ten days. My color is 
 almost as fresh and healthfid as it ever was, 
 my strength considerably increased, and were 
 I free from the irritation of the nmcous mem- 
 brane of my mouth and stomach, I should feel 
 there was but a few steps to perfect health. 
 But it still hangs about me, casting a damp on 
 all my hopes. Still I can cast all my cares 
 upon the Lord, knowing that he cares for me. 
 ' Give me this day my daily bread,' is still my 
 prayer. My mind turns continually to you 
 and tiie dear children. Day and night you 
 are ever present with me. Two steamers have 
 come without my receiving any letter. Before 
 this you have received my first two letters, and 
 you will now hear regularly once in two weeks, 
 sometimes weekly. Our Heavenly Father will 
 provide. Tell Brother and Sister C I in- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 241 
 
 tend writing them soon. I have not yet seen. 
 
 Brother F , and have received bnt ono 
 
 communication from him. Shall probably visit 
 tlie South of England the latter part of the 
 month. 
 
 '' This is the day for Professor W 's ex- 
 ecution. As I awoke this morning, I thought 
 of him and his dear family. O how'Tn}'^ heart 
 pities them! My earnest prayer has gone, and 
 is going up for them all. Aii ! my deai', this 
 is trial, this affiiction. Were I in his place, 
 
 and you in Mrs. W 's place, how much 
 
 more insupportable the burden than our pre- 
 sent affliction ! May God have mercy upon 
 them. Tell the little boys, father remembers 
 th^m and loves them, and hopes, through the 
 goodness of God, to come back to them a well 
 
 man. Also, dear J , I hope she will be a 
 
 good girl." 
 
 " Chestkr, Sept. ISth. 
 " Night before last I was made glad by the 
 reception of three letters from you, one from 
 
 Brother T , and one from Brother W . 
 
 The whole was almost too great and too rich a 
 feast for one in my delicate state to endure. I 
 was very sorry to hear of your poor health. I 
 would advise you not to attempt to do heavy, 
 fatiguing work, such as washing, ironing, &c. 
 
242 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 Hire these done. Don't fear the speech of 
 people. Look to j^our Ileavenl}- Father. He 
 knows tJKit you need rest, and is willing that 
 you should have it, and will see to it that your 
 wants are supplied without your sacritichig 
 your life. You need not fear but that we shall 
 be sustained. And right here let nie say, be 
 "willing, ^n your part, to receive. I know it is 
 more blessed to give than to receive ; but 
 sometimes it is made clearly our duty to take 
 the less blessed condition, and become mere 
 recipients. 
 
 " Since I last wrote you I have been very 
 sick, as much so as at any time since I was 
 taken down. I had a most violent attack of 
 acute gastritis. The pain was excessively se- 
 vere, and for tliree or four days it seemed to 
 be nearly all over with )ne. I gave you all 
 up, nor friends, nor kindred, nor country ex- 
 pected I ever to see more. Nature bled at 
 every pore, but God, who hath delivered me 
 in all my troubles, appeared for my help in 
 this. He has raised me from that bed of pain 
 and anguish, and made ray soul to overflow 
 with joy and blessing. The air at Parkgate 
 proved too bracing for me, and irritated my 
 stomach, rather than helped it. I returned to 
 
 C to Mr. T 's. He and his wife have 
 
 been all to me that the tenderest father and 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 243 
 
 mother conla l)o, and tlicir sons as attentive 
 and lovinij as brothers. Every want was anti- 
 cipated and supplied. I have in atten<hvnce 
 Dr. Norton, a homceopathic physician, in 
 wh'om I have the utmost confidence. His 
 treatment, thus far, has been very successful, 
 and my prospects of a final recovery are better 
 than ever. Though I am delicate as" a child, 
 my symptoms are all better. The Lord is 
 raising me up helpers on every side. All that 
 I can do is to stand still, love, and adore. 
 The Lord fills me with the joys of his salva- 
 tion. Be not anxious about me. Rest, mj 
 dear, and trust the Lord. Kiss the dear boys 
 for me. My heart cleaves to you all." 
 
 " Chester, Sept. ^Ist. 
 " I have taken a very small piece of paper, 
 simply to say, that, since I wrote last week, 
 my health has rapidly improved. In every 
 respect, I am happy and comfortable. And 
 though separated from my family, whom I 
 love as my own life, a stranger in the midst of 
 strangers, and a foreign land, still I am very 
 happy. ' Kot a wave of trouble rolls across 
 my breast.' I can sweetly leave all with 
 God. I am doing well under my present 
 treatment, and hope to return to you a well 
 man. I wrote to you last week at length ; 
 
244: ^v EDWARD WEED. 
 
 shall {Deo volente) do- so again next week. I 
 
 expect Brother F and wife here next week 
 
 to se^ me. This is the day of oiir trial, let us 
 abide it, kissing the hand that smites.^ I doubt 
 not tliat God will watch over you for good. 
 Say to the dear chddren, father remembers 
 them and loves them." 
 
 " Chkstek, Sept. 26^A. 
 "Tour letter of tiie 28th ultimo came to 
 hand last week. It did me much good. While 
 it distressed me, it also greatly comforted me. 
 I v'Tlg7^^j'gf?g?sed at the account you gave of 
 your health, and comforted that you was suc- 
 cessfully seeking the Lord, and that he was 
 leading you in the right way. I was greatly 
 interested in your account of the ' Memoirs of 
 the Mrs. Judsons,' and highly delighted with 
 the poetry you sent me. The life of faith, as 
 illustrated in the career of such persons, is 
 pre-eminently adapted to stimulate us onward 
 in the path of holiness. For the last few days 
 I have been poorly. Have had another attack 
 of acute gastritis, am contined to the house, 
 but the inflammation is subsiding, and my 
 vitality reviving. In reference to my recover- 
 ing my health, I am constantly alternating 
 between hope and fear. Still I can say, 
 Blessed I/yrd^ thy will he done. To us these 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 245 
 
 are days of severe temponil trial, and it be- 
 comes us to humble ourselves under the mighty 
 hand of God, and to earnestly seek that his 
 chastening may accomplisli for our souls what 
 his love*and mercy intends it shall. Let us 
 not faint under his rebuke, but encourage our- 
 selves in his promises, and say, with Job, 
 'Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.' 
 The following beautiful hymn has greatly 
 comforted me : 
 
 " * Be still, my heart, these anxious cares 
 To thee arc burdens, thorns, and snares ; 
 They cast dishonor on thy Lord, 
 And contradict his gracious word. 
 
 Brought safely by his hand thus far, 
 "Why wilt thou now giv'e place to fear ? 
 How canst thou want, if he provide ? 
 Or lose thy way with such a guide ? 
 
 When first before the mercy-seat, 
 Thou didst thy all to him commit, 
 He gave thee warrant, from that hour, 
 To trust his wisdom, love, and power. 
 
 Did ever trouble yet befell, 
 And He refuse to hear thy call ? 
 And has he not his promise past, 
 That thou shalt overcome at last ? 
 
 He who has helped me hitherto. 
 Will help me all my journey through, 
 Aud give me daily cause to raise 
 New Ebenezers to his praise. 
 
246 EDWARD WKED. 
 
 Though rough ami tliorny be tlio road, 
 It leads thee home, apace to God ; 
 Then count the present trials small, 
 For heaven will make amends lor all.' 
 
 " The goodness of God is still conspicuous to- 
 wards me, in raising up kind, sympathizing 
 friends, and in providing amply for aU niy 
 wants. The dear family with whom I lodge 
 are still unwearied in their attentions to me. I 
 lack no comfort friends can procure, 'and I 
 know not how I could be better situated for re- 
 covery. Did I suppose tjjere was no reason- 
 able prospect of my being restored to health, I 
 should make an effort to return home as soon 
 as circumstances would allow. If I am to die, 
 it is my strong desire to die in the bosom of 
 my family, and in iuy own country ; I should 
 like to breathe my last in the arms of my dear 
 wife, and in the presence of my beloved chil- 
 dren, and brothers and sisters ; to let you have 
 the last sad office of closing my eyelids. God 
 may have some better thing than this in store 
 for us ; let us be prepared for the worst, and 
 hope for the best. 
 
 " 27M. — This morning I awoke refreshed, 
 and to-day I am better. The inflammation of 
 my stomach is subsiding. Should you come 
 in this morning you would see that I look much 
 better than I did when I left home. We have 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 247 
 
 had vei-}' fine weather li ere during this month. 
 This morning is a very beautiful, lovely one. 
 Your letters do not come regular; sometimes I 
 get two or three at a time. I send papers witii 
 pictures ti) amuse the little 'boys ; I want yon 
 to let them know that I send them to them. 
 
 I expect Brother F and his wife here, on 
 
 their return from the continent. Whatever be- 
 tides us, let us stay ourselves upon the -Lord. 
 He still keeps my mind in a sweet, calm, hea- 
 venly state." 
 
 " Chester, Oct. 'ind. 
 
 " I am greatly disappointed in not receiving 
 any letter for the last two weeks. Still I do nut 
 allow myself to be made unhappy by it ; I be- 
 lieve in the truth of tlie Scripture declaration, 
 that ' all tilings bhall* work tt)gether for the good 
 of those that love God. I have suffered much 
 since I last wrote to you, but am better now, 
 and sanguine in my hope of getting well. I 
 think I am pursuing the right course to secure 
 that end. My physician is aiming at one 
 single point — to remove the original disease. 
 His prescriptions of medicine, diet, and exer- 
 cise, all bear upon that point, and I think with 
 evident success. 
 
 " 3/'cZ. — I have laid myself down and slept, 
 and arose refreshed. The Lord tills me with 
 
248 EDWAKD WEED. 
 
 Lis goodness, and causes me to joy wifh ex- 
 ceeding grent joy. I feel very solicitous in re- 
 ference to your health. I think you ought to 
 set rieriously about seeking its recovery. When 
 I shall return (if-over) is not yet decided in 
 my own mind. My heart yearns fur my home 
 and family. Let us control our natural feel- 
 ings and desires, and wait patiently the de- 
 velopments of Providence. The Lord is at pre- 
 sent giving me a rich experience and great de- 
 light in his word. I am beholding wondrous 
 things out of his law: every morning I awake 
 early, and my mind runs sweetly up and down 
 the Divine record. It is now Friday, 4th, be- 
 tween 10 and 11 o'clock, A.M. Yon are still 
 locked in slumbei's, but I have been up several 
 hours — have read a portion of Scripture, and 
 have lifted my prayer for self, wife, little ones, 
 country, and the whole work of God, in this 
 dying world. I trust I shall hear from you the 
 next steamer. Tell the dear children father 
 prays for them, and wants them to pray for 
 him." 
 
 " CnESTER, Oct. 15th. 
 
 " Last week I received two lettei-s from you ; 
 
 bringing the date up to the 21st of last month. 
 
 It was cheering to learn that you and the 
 
 children were enjoying a good degree of 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 249 
 
 health. I am slowly but daily improving, but 
 I am obliged to be very cautious on every hand 
 lest I induce a relapse. My cruse ot" oil dues 
 not yet fail ; I have no anxiety for myself; I 
 do, however, feel a great anxiety that you and 
 the dear children shall be abundantly provided 
 for, so that your mind may be relieved from all 
 anxiety on that score. I hope the Lord w^ill 
 give you strong faith in his providing care. 
 There are many things I should like to write 
 to you about, but writing is tiie must trying 
 labor I perform. It taxes my strength more 
 than anything else, therefore I have to be very 
 careful in reference to it. Tlie Lord still keeps 
 my mind in a heavenly, quiet, and peaceful 
 state." 
 
 " Chester, Oct. 2Uh. 
 '^ Your last letter came by the ' Atlantic,' and 
 arrived here, thirteen days from date. For 
 the last few days I have been very unwell ; 
 find all my powers very feeble, and that the 
 least imprudence puts me back. The cold 
 weather is going to try me exceedingly — for 
 the most part I shall have to keep my room. 
 I am convinced that it would be perilous for 
 me to attempt to go home. I often doubt 
 ■whether I shall ever see again my beloved 
 country, my dear wife and children, my other 
 
250 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 relatives, and dear friends. All this is in the 
 hands of Divine Providence, and I can leave 
 it to such a w ise disposal. Still it adds to my 
 affliction, in my feeble state, to be thus sepa- 
 rated from my dearest earthly friends. Never 
 did I feel more than I do now, tlie need of the 
 soothing influence of a loving wife and family, 
 and I have the serious thought of asking you 
 to come to me here ; I have many reasons in 
 my own mind why this would be best, and it 
 is the opinion of all the friends here, including 
 my physician, that if you can, you had by all 
 means better come, as it would contribute 
 essentially to my comtbrt and recovery. You 
 ask how can the means be raised ? Sell your 
 furniture, and there are many who would assist 
 to raise the means, if they knew you were 
 
 coming. Captain J3 , of Brooklyn, sails a 
 
 fine new packet, which will leave New York 
 the last of December or lirst of January. It 
 will take you until that time to get all things 
 ready. I hear you say, 'You have proposed 
 to rne a great undertaking.' I have, indeed ; 
 but will it not be best in the end for you, for 
 me, and for the children ? Should I live and 
 recover, it is my desire to remain and labor 
 here awhile. There is an open door for me. 
 Were you and the children here, I should feel 
 in no hurry to return. Think over the mat- 
 
FAITH AND \VOin;S. 251 
 
 ter, seek Div'inc direction, and decide accord- 
 ing to tlie best light you can get, and I shall 
 be content. I have been four dajs writing 
 this letter. Tliis morning I am better. Love 
 to the dear children, to all. In patience abide 
 your day." 
 
 "• CuKSTKli, JS^OV. ifh. 
 
 "Yours of the 22na ult. came to hand this 
 morning, having reached here iu twelve days 
 after being mailed. All your recent letters 
 have come regularly. I am still very weak ; 
 had a very poor time of it last week. My 
 Avhole system is in a very languid, toneless 
 state. I still indulge the hope of recovery. 
 My color is pretty good ; I do not bloat, or 
 feel that weakness around my body, that I 
 Tised to. Nothing disturbs my peace. I have 
 not slied a tear for weeks, only over your let- 
 ters. My trust is iu God, He will never, 'no, 
 nev&r forsahe us I Even when our father and 
 mother cast us off, lie will take us' up. Here, 
 in this land of strangers, He is raising me up 
 helpers on every hand. I should like to sit 
 down by your side, and tell you my experi- 
 ence since I left home, and point out the way 
 in which the Lord has guided my every step. 
 Be not discouraged. Let us patiently and 
 humbly abide our day. If ail men ceased to 
 
252 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 minister unto ns, He could make the ravens 
 feed us. as they did Elijah. Tlie earth is His, 
 and tlie fullness thereof, the gold and silver, 
 and the cattle upon a thousand hills. We shall 
 he sustained. Be strong, my dear, strong in 
 faith. Hath not the Savior said, ' Seek first the 
 kingdom of God, and his righteousness, and 
 all these things shall.be added ;' and will He 
 not perform his own word ? Let us trust Him, 
 adopting the words of Hab. iii. 17, remem- 
 bering also, that ' man liveth not by bread 
 alone, but by every word which proceedeth 
 out of the mouth of God.' What you record 
 of the prattle of our little boys about me'great- 
 ly affects me ; I always weep over it. Kiss them 
 again and again for me. In my last week's 
 letter I wrote for you and them to come to me. 
 The subject is before your mind. Seek direc- 
 tion of the Lord. Act according to your best 
 judgment in the light Providence may cast upon 
 your path, and I shall be content. If y<m come 
 I shall rejoice, if you do not, I shall regard it 
 in the sight of our Heavenly Father, as not 
 wise, and therefore shall be reconciled. I 
 would not do anything contrary to his will. 
 Read the Ixii. and Ixiii. Psalms, also Watts' 
 version of them ; they exactly express my 
 
 present experience. Tell dear Brother W 
 
 he must be like the Saviour, and love me to the 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 253 
 
 end. Tell Brother and Sister C I remem- 
 ber all their kindness with deepest gratitude; 
 sympathize in their trials, and i)ray for them 
 daily. I have been all the week writing this 
 letter ; it has cost me a great effort. It leaves 
 me very feeble, though not immediatel}' dan- 
 gerous. Deo. Vol. I shall write T next 
 
 week. God bless you. Adieu." 
 
 " Chestkr, Nov. 13th. 
 
 " My Dear Brother T : Your weleome, 
 
 sympathizing letter, was promptly and speed- 
 ily received, having reached here in thirteen 
 
 days after it was mailed at M . I thank 
 
 you for your supplications, and for keeping 
 alive a remembrance of me in the minds of 
 your dear little boys. I am truly grateful also 
 
 to my dear M friends, for the continued 
 
 interest they manifest in my case. I shall ever 
 remember with the liveliest gratitude their 
 great kindness to me. I request a continued 
 interest in their prayers, and still hojje, through 
 the rich mercy of God, and the abounding 
 supplications of my Christian friends, to be 
 restored to health, and to more than my former 
 usefulness. One thing, however, is very cer- 
 tain, it will take a long time, great care, and 
 close discipline, to restore me to my wonted 
 strength and vigor. The voyage did me good ; 
 
254 EDWARD WEED, 
 
 but, unaware of my own weakness, I under- 
 took to do too luucli in writing, reading, trav 
 eling, etc. ; the result was, immediate prostra- 
 tion, and a severe attack of acute gastritis ; 
 W'liich brought me abnost to the grave. I 
 have snftered greatl}', but at present am in the 
 ascending scale. Love to all the dear friends. 
 Write me soon, and give me local, rather than 
 general news. Tiie latter I get in the pa- 
 pers." 
 
 " Cm':sTER, Nov. 22nd. 
 " My Dearly Beloved Wife : — Your letter 
 of the 6tli inst. reached me on the morning of 
 the 18th, having passed from the Post-office of 
 !New York to Liverpool in eleven days. It 
 was peculiarly jDleasant to hear from you so 
 direct and speedily. I perceive that you are 
 still troubled with the shadows of unbelief; 
 that you are like Peter, when walking on the 
 water, as the winds became boisterous, his 
 confidence failed. So you, when you see some 
 of the friends drawing back, are afraid an 1 
 discouraged. Let me say, Tny trust has never 
 been in man, nor in any particular individual, 
 or class of men ; I know the weakness of men^ 
 their fickleness, and readiness to grow weary 
 in well-doing. My trust li;;-. 1 een, and still 
 is, in thi: JAvlng God, the possessor of Ihave^i, 
 
FAITH AND VVOKKS. 255 
 
 and He who lias 2^i"'^>mise(l when father and 
 mother forsake us, to take us up, who can 
 cause the heavens to rain down bread, the 
 flinty rock to give forth Nvator, the ravens to 
 feed his servants; sustain poor wick^ws, wliose 
 meal and oil are just ready to i'ail ; spread a 
 table in the wilderness in the 23resence of 
 enemies ; who has promised never to leave us, 
 or forsake us, and whose faithfulness reaches 
 unto the heavens. In Ilim do I trusty in Him 
 is my hope. And blessed be his name, I can 
 this morning sweetly look up into his face, 
 and say, ' The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not 
 want? May the Lord, my dear, establish your 
 heart in believing, so that the dark clouds of 
 his providence, as they cross our path, may 
 not disturb or perturb your soul, but lead 
 you to shelter yourself more sweetly and se-, 
 curely under the shadow of his wing. Since 
 I wrote you last, my health has been gradually 
 improving; and I hope that God has yet a 
 good work for me to do on earth. I am wait- 
 ing with deepest interest to hear your decision 
 in reference to coming here. Should j^ou un- 
 dertake to come, and take care of your sick 
 husband, in a foreign land, many will sympa- 
 thize with you, and lend yon a helping hand. 
 Should you not come, keep the place where 
 you now are. Should I return, I shall want 
 
256 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 a home to go to. Love to the dear children, 
 and all the friends." 
 
 " Chester, Nov. '2^th. 
 " Tours of the IGth inst. reached me last 
 evening, just twelve days frum JS^ew York. I 
 was ghid to hear from you and the dear chil- 
 dren, that you were ordinarily welL Will it 
 ever be so with me again ? I fear not. I am 
 a poor feeble man, truly an ol)ject of comiais 
 eration. It seems to me now, if God will 
 grant me the privilege of returning home and 
 dying in the arms of my wife, in tlie presence 
 of my children, kindred, and dear Christian 
 friends, it is the highest temporal mercy he 
 can bestow. The Africa, one of the Cunard 
 steamers, sails from Liverpool December 7th, 
 for New York. After consultation with Dr. 
 
 N this morning, I have concluded to make 
 
 the effort to come in it. With a tolerable pros- 
 perous voyage it will reach its landing, Jersey 
 Cit}^ as early as Dec. 21. Under the circum- 
 stances, it will be a great undertaking for rae. 
 What will be its results I cannot say; they may 
 be favorable or unfavorable — result in life or 
 death. It is Dr. N 's opinion that to re- 
 main would, upon the whole, be most safe, but 
 if I could get home without much injury, it 
 will be the best course for me to pursue, espe- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 257 
 
 cially considering the superior social comfort 
 •which I should enjoy in the hosorn of my 
 fiiniily. Do not be sanguine that you will see 
 me at the time designated. I may not be able 
 to go then. I may die on the voyage. Have 
 yourself prepared for the woi-st, by which I 
 mean the most afflictive. TlieLord has raised 
 me up here dear friends who are ministering 
 angels to me — they do not tire in their offices 
 of kindness ; I should like to sit down by your 
 side and tell you all God's gracious dealings 
 with me since I left home. Truly, his mercy 
 reacheth unto the heavens. May the Lord 
 permit me to see you and my dear children 
 once more. This will go out in to-morrow's 
 steamer; in the next I hope to go myself. I 
 desire you and all the friends to pray for me." 
 
 He kept a brief journal as he had strength, 
 in which he penned the last he ever wrote, just 
 before he left Chester. A few of the last dates 
 will be interesting to his friends. 
 
 ^^ Sept. 7th. — A severe day. Rev. R. Knill 
 called to see me. 
 
 " St/). — Hard day. Despaired of life. Deacon 
 Marsh called and prayed with me. 
 
 " 10th. — Better. God has heard prayer. 
 Many prayers have been oflfered by the godly 
 
258 EDWARD W^EED. 
 
 in Chester for me. Tlie Lord lias awakened a 
 lively interest in them for me. 
 
 "lo^A. — Much better. Blessed in heart and 
 l)ody. 
 
 "23rc?. — Went to ITallowell and married a 
 couple. Felt poorly all day. Marriage fee £10. 
 
 " 2!)^//. — This week very sick ; coniined to my 
 room. But He who giveth songs in the night 
 was with me. 
 
 " Oct. \Ztli. — This week my health continued 
 to improve. "Wrote to Rev. II. W. Beecher. 
 Received two letters from wife; one from 
 Brother Finney ; two visits from Brother Knill, 
 one from Deacon Marsh, and a kind note from 
 Daniel James, Esq., Liverpool. 
 
 " 22nfZ. — Had a very poor day ; confined to 
 house and lounge. The Dr., and Mr. and 
 Mrs. T called on me. 
 
 " 26^/i. — Had a poor day. Mind in a placid 
 state. 
 
 " 2825A. — Had a comfortable night. Rose 
 
 some better. Mrs. T •, Miss K , and 
 
 Rev. Mr. Jones called. 
 
 "30M. — Arose feeble ; kept very quiet. Mrs. 
 
 H called and read to me ; Mr. and Mrs. 
 
 T in the evening. 
 
 '■'-Nov. \8t — Better to-day. Dr. N called 
 
 and changed my medicine. Mrs. H 
 
 called. 
 
FAITH AND AVORKS. 259 
 
 ^^2nd. — Had a good night's rest, and was re. 
 
 freshed. Called at Mrs. T 's. Was very 
 
 feeble all day. 
 
 ^'■21st — Had a comfortable day. Mrs. K 
 
 and daughter. Mrs. H and the Dr. called. 
 
 22nd. — Another good day. Mrs. II- 
 
 called. Had a sweet time in studying God's 
 word together. Mrs. T called in the even- 
 ing. Letter from Mr. James. 
 
 " 2Srd. — Arose refreshed ; walked over to 
 
 Mrs. H 's. Conversation wholly practical 
 
 and religious. 
 
 " 28i^A.— Quite poorly. Mr. Iv and Mrs. 
 
 H called. Received letter from wife. 
 
 " Dec. 4^A.— Some better. Eev. J. D. Ed- 
 wards, Kov. R. Knill, D. James, Mr. aud Mrs. 
 T called. 
 
 " 5th. — Still improving. Received letter from 
 Brother F and £5." 
 
 At this date his pen was laid aside, never to 
 be resumed again. 
 
 It was the opinion of Mr. Weed's friends and 
 medical advisers in this country, that it would 
 be far better for him to come home than for 
 his family to attempt to go to England, believ- 
 ing as they did, that it would probably be not 
 to see his face in the flesh, but to weep over his 
 grave in a foreign land. 
 
200 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 After liis return, when asked by his wife hi? 
 opinion of this arrangement, he said, " Oh, it 
 was infinitely better that I should come home : 
 how glad I was when tossing upon the waves, 
 that it wasn't you and the children." 
 
CnAPTER XIX. 
 
 KETUKN TO AMERICA LAST ILLNESS DEATH 
 
 EXTRACTS FKOM LETfERS OF FRIENDS. 
 
 The Yth of December, 1850, Mr. Weed sailed 
 from Liverpool, in the " Africa." Daniel 
 James, Esq., of Liverpool, to whom he owed a 
 thousand obligations, and other friends in Clies- 
 ter, who were unwearied in their attentions to 
 him to the last, had many fears that he might 
 not survive the voyage ; though it was subse- 
 quently manifest to all that this too was lov- 
 ingly directed by Him who suffers not a spar- 
 row to fall to the ground without his notice. 
 
 Every thing was done that loving hearts 
 could devise, and active hands accomplish to 
 make his voyage comfortable. His outfit and 
 passage-money were provided by various be- 
 nevolent individuals in Chester and Liverpool, 
 many giving freely who never saw him. 
 Though he had no sweet assurance when he 
 
262 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 Bet out that he should live to see his native 
 land, his liome, and loved ones, yet his mind 
 was kept in perfect peace and quiet, To use his 
 own iigure, he rested as sweetly and confidingly 
 on his Saviour's bosom as ever a little infant 
 did in the arms of its mother, leaving all the 
 future, in sweet submission, to his Heavenly 
 Father. For two days after he went on ship- 
 board he was so exiiausted that he was not 
 able to open his Bible. When he did take it 
 up to peruse its sacred pages, he opened it as 
 it were casually to the cxxi. Psalm. He read 
 and re-read it. It seemed to be the word and 
 promise of God meeting his particular case, 
 and he said he had a full, sweet assurance, 
 from that hour, that he should outlive the 
 perils of his voyage and reach his own beloved 
 home. He was never but once again able to 
 read during his whole vovage. And he was 
 at that time directed to a psalm almost equally 
 appropriate to his own case as this, and which 
 he was enabled to receive as God's word, most 
 graciously addressed to him. He remarked 
 that " the presence of God alone sustained him 
 — that his arms of love seemed to encircle him 
 — his wing covered him, while he nestled in its 
 feathers." On tiie 22d ol' December, two weeks 
 and one day after he left L , he was re- 
 ceived, with sorowing and rejoicing, by his 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 203 
 
 anxicRisly waiting home circle. Pale, emaci- 
 ated, weak as an infant, he was carried into his 
 apartments, which he never left until he took 
 his final leave of them, four weeks and one day 
 from tiie time of his arrival home. 
 
 In a few daj-s after his return he appeared 
 much better, the bloat in his feet disappeared, 
 his apjjetite became good, he sat up most of 
 the day, walked from one room to another, and 
 was hopeful that possibly he might come up 
 as he had done before, when brought aj)])a- 
 rently to the very verge of the grave. The 
 same earnest desire that he had felt all through 
 his illness, to live to preach Christ, and him cru- 
 cified, to his dying fellow-men, was strong until 
 he gave up all hope. He enjoyed the society 
 of his friends much, and though too feeble to 
 read at all himself, he listened with great in- 
 terest to the various kinds of reading in which 
 he had engaged in days of health ; the Bible, 
 as it had ever been to him, above every thing 
 else. He was never able after his return to 
 lead in family devotion but once, and his 
 prayer was then like one who had already 
 done with earth and earthly things. He con- 
 tinued along much the same for more than 
 two weeks after the new year commenced, im- 
 perceptibly growing weaker, until he was sud- 
 denly taken worse, and survived only three 
 
264: EDWARD WEED. 
 
 days. Extracts from a letter written to his 
 brother, soon after his death, give a concise 
 and particuhir account of his last week. 
 
 " Dear Brother T : — Your tnily sym- 
 pathizing letter was duly received, and you 
 will think I have been long in answering it. 
 Though fully aware of the painful task, I have 
 for a week been trying to get time to write to 
 you the particulars of the week that inter- 
 vened between your leaving here and dear 
 Edward's final departure. You will recollect, 
 
 just before you left Brother C came in ; 
 
 he stayed until after dark, read one of Camp- 
 bell's sermons to him, and had some pleasant 
 conversation. That night he had as comfort- 
 able a time as usual. I was up with him two 
 or three times. Tuesday morning be was 
 bathed and dressed as usual, had eaten his 
 br'eakfast, and I had just sat down with him and 
 the children, at his own affectionate request, to 
 have our season of family worship, when Rev. 
 
 11. Belden and Mrs. C called. I read a 
 
 chapter in the Acts ; he then requested us to 
 sing that psalm, that has one verse, commenc- 
 ing— 
 
 "'How happy all thy servants are, 
 How great thy grace to me ;' 
 
FAITH AWl) WOKKS. 265 
 
 which was quite a fav(n-itc of his, and Brotlicr 
 
 Ji prayed. After which Mrs. C left, 
 
 and Mr. B and husband continued con- 
 
 versinof an hour or more vvitli as much zest as 
 he used to manifest in his days of health. To- 
 ward evening Rev. C. Parker came in, and at 
 his request read to him the next to the last 
 chapter of Malachi, in which it speaks of the 
 sons of Levi being purified. Husband made 
 Some remarks upon that portion of it, and they 
 engaged in a conversation of some interest, 
 which, tliough all perfectly pleasant, seemed to 
 
 exhaust dear E very much and he asked us 
 
 to help him on the bed. When Brother P 
 
 got up to go away, he said to him, 'Charles, I 
 love to have you come and see me, and talk and 
 read to me, but you must not get me into a dis- 
 cussion^ lam too weak.' He rested much as usual 
 Tuesday night, though I should think there 
 was an increase of bowel irritation. WedHes- 
 day he was as strong and comfortable, and 
 more so than for several days before you left. 
 I had hurried the heavy work through, so as 
 to get as much time as possible to spend with 
 him ; and oh ! my brother, you do not know 
 how I coveted having him alone to myself. 
 Though for the most part, when I was not 
 waiting upon him, it was to sit still by his side, 
 in consequence of his being so much exhausted. 
 
206 EmVAKD WEED. 
 
 by company. But even those were seasons of 
 luxurious enjoyment, in comparison with those 
 long, anxious montlis lie was in England. 
 
 Miss C , Mrs. B , and Mrs. II , and 
 
 lier sister made eacli a sliort call. AVhen we 
 were arranged for family worship, he requested 
 me to sing the psalm commencing, 
 
 " ' Sweet is the work, my God, my King ;' 
 
 and he sung a part of it with me. I got con- 
 siderable time to read to him, which he seemed 
 to enjuy very mueii. 
 
 " I observed that his relish for animal food 
 was ceasing, and indeed his appetite became 
 less altogether. 
 
 " Tliursday morning Mrs. P. Fields called ; 
 but dear husband would not permit me to in- 
 vite her in to see him until he liad on his dress- 
 ing-gown, and was seated in his easy-chair, re- 
 mafking as she came in, as an apology for keep- 
 ing her waiting so long, he wanted to look as 
 well as he could, so as not to repulse his 
 friends, for a sick man was at best but a dis- 
 gusting object. She stayed an hour or two, 
 and he told her in the time he expected to go 
 to P once more, but he expected to be car- 
 ried there ; but added, he might possibly re- 
 cover, though lie did not think there was more 
 tlian one chance in a hundred in his favor^ 
 
rAITU AND WORKS. 267 
 
 lie did not relish liis food as he had done, hut 
 otherwise appeared as well as usual. Ahout 
 noon Sarah got sick, and went home, leaving 
 nie with every thing to do, and feeling as 
 though I could not bear to leave him a mo- 
 ment. In this dilemma Mrs. C , v/hom 
 
 you knew at P , and Mrs. B came in. 
 
 Mrs. C stayed the remainder of the day, 
 
 and waited upon him. About dark Bi'other 
 
 II called, and stayed all night and took 
 
 care of him, and with the exception of a slight 
 turn of vomiting, he had an unusually com- 
 fortable nigiit. 
 
 "Early Friday morning Brother Williams 
 called, before husband had arisen, and they 
 had a conversation of an hour or more upon 
 different subjects of interest. I think he took 
 his pouring-bath that morning, and after he 
 was dressed and seated in his rocker, he said, 
 'his heart was in a glow, he was so Com- 
 fortable; he thought he was gaining strength 
 some,' and wished me to call the children in, 
 and have our season of family worship. But 
 calls interrupted, of one kind and another, 
 
 until five P. M. Mrs. B came and read 
 
 part of a sermon to him. Mi-, ar.d Mrs. 
 
 C , from P , came and spent some 
 
 time, and before they left Brother H 
 
 returned, and remained until after five. Oh I 
 
263 EDWAUD WEED. 
 
 how mncl) I felt he was using up his precious 
 strength, every iota of which I valiu^d more 
 than mountains of the finest gold. About five 
 P. M. he began to cougli, with tliat weak, suf- 
 focatinjj cou<:h that vou have ubserved in cases 
 of consumption. It continued so long, I felt a 
 
 little alai-med even before Brother II left. 
 
 It inci'eased afterward and with a distressing 
 sense of sulfocation. lie became purple around 
 his mouth, his hands became cold, and his 
 pulse exceedingly small. At his request I put 
 a wet cloth around his throat, and soon after 
 gave him a small pill of opium, which allayed 
 the irritation a little, and he said, 'I shall get 
 a little quiet soon ; and then I wish you to call 
 the children in, and sing and pray.' But the 
 cough and suffocation returned, and I sent for 
 
 Dr. B . Before he got here dear husband 
 
 was a little easier, thf)Ugh tiie cough was by 
 no means fully allayed. He said, 'perhaps, 
 after all, the doctors have been mistaken, and 
 iny lungs have been diseased all along.' But 
 Dr. B said, the cough was only sympa- 
 thetic. He left medicine which quieted it. 
 After he ceased coughing he fell into a doze, 
 and talked incessantly for an hour or two, just 
 as the thoughts passed in his mind ; after he 
 ceased talking, for an hour or two more, he 
 moaned every breath, but gradually fell into a 
 
FATTII AND WORKS. 2C9 
 
 quiet sIuhiIkt, wliicli n'frcslied liiin mucli, and 
 ill the iiioniiiio; he iippcared comparatively 
 comt'ortable, but weak as an infant. I watched 
 alone by his side during the night, but he said 
 lie had no recollection of anything after the 
 doctor was there in the evening, and added, 
 'you must not let any one in to see me to-day,' 
 (Saturday,) which I was very glad to hear, and 
 implicitly followed. The doctor called to see 
 him, and the barber came, and he was bol- 
 stered up in bed and shaved. What he ate, I 
 fed him, as I would a little infant. He suf- 
 fered paroxysms of severe pain ; in the inter- 
 vals he appeared more comfortable, but too 
 "weak to converse. I hardly left his bedside at 
 all through the day. They were precious, 7>?'<g- 
 cious hours, though I looked forward to what 
 was in all probability but just before me, as 
 one would in the agonizing expectation of 
 losing a part of themselves ; and oh ! how un- 
 reconciled I felt at the probability that he 
 would never have strength to have a conversa- 
 tion that we had repeatedly attempted, viz., 
 his particular advice respecting myself and the 
 children in case he. should be taken from us. 
 All he had strength to say respecting our 
 lonely, destitute, desolate circumstances, was, 
 ' the Lord will raise up friends for you.' A 
 letter was received from our dear absent Ben- 
 
270 EnWARD WEED. 
 
 jainin, and lie express'od great satisfaction at ita 
 contents. In the course of the day I sent 
 
 word to Brother W that we should be 
 
 glad of his assistance througli the night, ayid 
 
 lie and Dr. L came and watched with 
 
 liiin. I tried to sleep, but his agonizing groans 
 continued all night, and he was constantly 
 seeking rest by being turned from side to side. 
 
 About four in the morning Dr. L left. 
 
 We changed hia position, and he slept an hour 
 or two. Sabbath he was comparatively easy, 
 but lay mostly with his eyes closed, and speak- 
 ing only when he wished for something. Miss 
 
 C came and spent most of the day. Quite 
 
 a number of friends came in to see him. He 
 sometimes opened his eyes when they came 
 into the room, and closed them without speak- 
 ing. Often during the day would he open his 
 eyes, glance them around the room on those 
 sitting there, and wlien they rested on me 
 would close them again, with that look of satis- 
 faction I have often seen an infant give its 
 mother when composing itself to sleep, con- 
 scious of her watchful presence. He had 
 taken no nourishment since Friday except a 
 little arrowroot or some very light thing, and 
 there was a dreadful sinking at the stomach. 
 He had been very thirsty, and drank a good 
 deal of ice water, and once or twice took a 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 271 
 
 teaspoonfiil of wine. Dr. B came at even- 
 ing and suo-gested his trying a little coffee, 
 and advised giving small quantities of opium, 
 if severe parox^'sms of pain should occur again. 
 I made a cup of coffee and some soft toast, he 
 relished both very much, and was revived and 
 relieved. Ills warm friend, Mr. Taylor, of 
 Paterson, hearing he was worse, came over to 
 see him. When about to leave, husband 
 thanked him for his interest in him, and for 
 all his acts of kindness to him and his family. 
 When the little boys were ready to go to rest, 
 they came as usual to their fatiier, to exchange 
 the good-night kiss for the last time. When 
 they were dressed in the morning, he was in- 
 sensible. Rev. J. L and Brother B 
 
 came to spend the night with him. In the 
 
 evening Brother W and his wife called to 
 
 see him. In answer to something Brother 
 
 W said, he looked up, while the glories 
 
 of heaven seemed to irradiate his countenance, 
 as he said — 
 
 " ' I can I'ead my title clear 
 
 To mansions in tlie skies, 
 And not a wave of trouble rolls 
 Across my peaceful breast.' 
 
 *' For four or five months past I have not felt 
 like i- iiying for but one specific temporal bless- 
 
272 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 ing — that I might cijinc home to die in the 
 bosom of my family. God most graciously 
 heard me in this, and now I can say, ' The will 
 of the Lord be done. His and his only^ 
 Whether I live or die I am his. I expect to 
 die very soon ; but I shall be clothed upon ' by 
 that house not made with hands, eternal in the 
 heavens.' 
 
 " He never expressed himself more beautifully 
 and clearly in word, voice, and manner ; and 
 he said but little afterward — nothing but to tell 
 what he wanted, and to urge me to take some 
 rest. His mind seemed inclined to wander, 
 and about six o'clock, Monday morning, he be- 
 came apparently insensible. Just before he 
 fell into this state, he exclaimed, as though he 
 thought he was engaged once more in his 
 favorite employment, ' A.nd the poor have the 
 gospel preached to them.' I succeeded in 
 arousing him, so that he spoke several times 
 during the morning; once asked for drink, 
 once to have his position adjusted, and once, 
 when I was trying very earnestly to arouse 
 him, he affectionately exclaimed, ' My dear 
 wife,' and tried to say more, but his utterance 
 failed him. He continued to drink until past 
 noon, and after he ceased swallowing, would 
 move his lips, as thougli he was conscious when 
 I moistened them. But for two hours he con- 
 
FArrii ANi> -svouKs. 273 
 
 tinned to breathe after all other motion had 
 ceased. About six p. m. there was a change in 
 his breathing, and he was gone, without a inove- 
 ineiil of a muscle, or a contortion of the placid 
 features, at ten minutes past six, p.m., January 
 20th, 1851, just one week and three hours after 
 you parted with him. 
 
 " He was buried at Paterson, Thursday, the 
 23rd. Kev. S. D. Cochran and Rev. W. H. 
 Hornblower both addressed the audience. Bro. 
 
 H and sister C , and L , with my 
 
 own little family, were all the relatives that 
 were present. Some ten or twelve other friends 
 from New York went with us; and I was told 
 the church was crowded with Paterson friends, 
 with weeping almost like the weeping for Jo- 
 seph. Your sympatiiizing letter did me much 
 good. The writing of this has cost me many, 
 many tears. 
 
 " Your deeply afflicted Sister, 
 
 " Z. P. Weed." 
 
 Friday before his death, he dwelt much upon 
 the goodness of God to him, and remarked that 
 his afflictions had stirred up his mind, to see 
 and adore God^s particular -prqvidences to his 
 children. Not a murmur escaped his lips after 
 he was taken worse, and through all his in- 
 tense sufferings. How sweetly were the promises 
 
274: EDWARD WEED. 
 
 recorded in Psalm xli. 1 S: 3, ful tilled ia 
 Lis case — '' Blessed is he that, coiisidejetli the 
 poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of 
 trouble. The Lord will strengthen him on the 
 bed of langnishing : thou wilt make all his bed 
 in his sickness." 
 
 Letters expressing the interest and sympathy 
 he awakened in the friends he made in Eng- 
 land, have been received from various sources. 
 One person, in whose family he spent some 
 time, writes : — 
 
 " When he first oflSciated at family worship, 
 bis expressive terms and fervency cemented my 
 affection and heart to him. I often esteemed 
 bim afterwards as the prophet Elias, visiting 
 the widow of Sarepta, and I do not less than 
 believe that the Lord smiled on my house, in 
 answer to his sincere prayers." 
 
 Another says, " We have reason to bless God 
 that he ever came under our roof. We con- 
 sidered him indeed a blessing; he tool: such an 
 interest in all the family, and gave us such 
 good counsel. I shall never forget what strong 
 faith he had in God. He was a pattera to us 
 all in this. He often said, ' Whether I live or 
 die, I know I aui the Lord's.' " 
 
 Another, in addressing a letter to Mr. Weed 
 himself, but which did not reach here until 
 after his decease, writes : — 
 
FAI'III AJVn WORKS. 275 
 
 " My dkar Siu: — We have been waitin^^ very 
 anxiously to liear of your hoped-for safe arrival 
 at New York, and yesterday Mr. Knill heard 
 from Mr. James, that your uame had appeared, 
 amongst the passengers arrived there. Every 
 thing with regard to your leaving was arranged 
 so wonderfully for yon, hy a kind and gracious 
 Providence, that we aliy<?/;^ yon would get safely 
 home. We do sincerely congratulate your dear 
 wife upon your restoration to her. If it be God's 
 will, we should rejoice to hear of your restora- 
 tion to health, and to renewed active service. 
 The Lord needs faithful laborers in his vine- 
 yard, those who are wise in winning souls. 
 Whether he has more work for you to do or not," 
 will soon ap]>ear. 
 
 ' His purposes will ripen fast, 
 Unfolding every hour.' • 
 
 God had work for you to do in Chester, that 
 is certain, and he helped you to do it. I often 
 feel as thougli you were brought over frojn 
 America, to teach me the way of God more 
 perfectly ; and, when you had done so, were 
 sent back again ; it seemed altogether so strange. 
 You will be glad to hear J'esus Ciirist is keep- 
 ing me close to his bleeding side." 
 
 His kind friend in Liverpool, after he heard 
 of his death, wrote as follows : — 
 
276 EDWARD WIOKI). 
 
 "Dear Mrs. W : I duly received your 
 
 kind note, infonhing nie of tlie safe arrival of 
 your dear husband in New York, but was sorry 
 to bear hy the last steamer that he was no more. 
 It was a great mercy that he was spared to 
 reach honie, and die in the bosom of his family, 
 and not anions strangers in a foreiorn land. 
 "When I last saw him in Chester, I did not 
 think he would ever see New York ; but after 
 he was on ship-board he appeared more com- 
 fortable, and I fully expected he would live to 
 Bee his dear family before his removal from 
 this vale of tears. lie now rests frum his 
 labors. And may we all be as well prepared 
 for our change, as he was. I now feel truly 
 thankful that I made the effort to send him 
 home to you. Many to whom I named his 
 case gave me cheerfully towards his passage. 
 I raised (with what I gave) among my friends 
 £30. When be was leaving he gave me 
 
 £5, which Mr. F sent him from London. 
 
 Under the circumstances, the agent of the 
 Bteamei*s was willing to take £25. So that, 
 after paying his passage, I have £10 to send 
 you, which no doubt you will find useful. 
 May the God of the widow — the God whom 
 your dear husband served, be your support in 
 the hour of trial, is the prayer of your sympa- 
 thizing friend, " Daniel James." 
 
FAITH AISD WOKKS. 277 
 
 The tbllo\viii<^ letter was written in answer 
 to a request made by Mrs. W for some par- 
 ticulars respecting Mr, Weed while he was in 
 
 Chester. 
 
 " QuEKisf's Park, Chestkr, 
 February 24t/i, 1853. 
 
 " My Dear Madam : — In the month of July 
 last I wrote you a- letter containing sixteen 
 pages of note paper, which is sure to be the 
 missing packet. I am sorry it is lost, as it 
 will be a serious matter to write such another ; 
 liowever, I shall feel happy to give you some 
 few particulars of your excellent and niueh- 
 lamented husband during his residence here. 
 
 " I accidentally heard that a minister from 
 America was staying in (/hester for a while oii 
 account of his health, that he was a stranger 
 here, and I immediately determined to go and 
 660 him ; and indeed I feel the greatest cause 
 for thankfulness that I ever had the privilege 
 of his acquaintance ; and although I only 
 knew him the last two mouths of his sojourn 
 here, yet that short period sufficed to give me 
 a great insight into his Christian character. 
 At the time I first knew him I had been a 
 long while in a state of bondage very distress- 
 ing. I had a large amount of scriptural 
 knowledge, but the light of Life had not irra- 
 
278 KDWAJiD WKJOD. 
 
 diated my soul. lie soon discovered iny state- 
 of mind, and the very first conversation we 
 had together on that subject was blessed by 
 God to the dispelling of doubts and fears, and 
 to a simple, happy reliance upon Jesus, the 
 atoning sacrifice. After then he never lost an 
 opportunity of turning the time we spent to- 
 gether to ray spiritual good. I usually spent 
 an hour with him eveiy afternoon ; and when 
 I went in, after the usual inquiries after his 
 liealth, etc., he would say, 'I have been won- 
 derinij: whether vou understand such a point 
 clearly,' and then he would turn to different 
 passages in the Scriptures, which w(juld illus- 
 trate the point. He had such a clear, lucid 
 way of exphiining things, every mist seemed 
 to vanish. He would frequently say, ' I can- 
 not preach now, but I want to give you clear 
 views, that you may preach in my stead ; and 
 to do so, it is not requisite that you should get 
 up into the pulpit.' I can sa}' with truth that 
 what I learned from him has been most valu- 
 able in my constant intercourse with the young 
 people of my classes. 
 
 " But though his lucid teachings, and clear 
 and experimental acquaintance with divine 
 things were most valuable, the example of his 
 holy, filial confidence in God, was far more so. 
 
FAITIt AND WCiUKS. 279 
 
 I have read in books, of faith like his, but I 
 never witnessed so much in daily life. 
 
 " His reliance on God was simple and child- 
 like, but strong, vigorous, realizing, unshaken. 
 No wasting sickness, no racking pain, debility 
 however distressing, circumstiinces however 
 precarious, blighted hopes, and failing re- 
 sources in a foreign land, away from wife, and 
 children and friends, nothing could cause his 
 faith to falter, or dim the eye that saw — 
 
 " ' Behind a frowning Providence a smiling face.' 
 
 " With every thing tending to make him 
 think only of self, he was ever mindful ofj 
 others, seizing any opportunity that might 
 occur to press home eternal matters upon tha 
 minds of any who called, and to encourage the 
 timid and faint-hearted. 
 
 " 1 was very much struck with Mr. TVeed's 
 confidence in God with regard to his pecu- 
 niary matters. While visiting him he never 
 led me to suspect his impoverished circum- 
 stances at all ; I only fancied he needed at- 
 tentions in the way of nice, pleasant food, 
 such as invalids always require. He once 
 gave me a sovereign to purchase some warm 
 articles with, when, having boiTght them to his 
 satisfaction, I returned him the money ; but 
 
280 EDWAED WEED. 
 
 lie would not receive it again until I assured 
 liiiu we were perfectly able to afford what I 
 had laid out for liiiu. I found out afterwards 
 that this was his last sovereign, and he did not 
 know where the next was to come from ; but 
 as he afterwards said, ' ]\[y Father has the cat- 
 tle upon a thousand hills, and all the fullness 
 of the earth is his, and will He let his poor, 
 suffering child want? ^ever!' 
 
 " His faith was great, and God honored it. 
 The circumstances of the last morning are ste- 
 reotyped in my memory. His health was in a 
 dreadful state, he could not walk across the 
 room without holding by something. But a 
 letter came from you wishing him, if possible, 
 to return home, as friends in America thought 
 it more desirable than that you should come 
 to him; but he was in the state above de- 
 scribed and without resources. However, Mr. 
 James, (jour kind friend,) Dr. Norton, and 
 Mr. Knill consulted together. Dr. Norton 
 said if he could go by the steamer which 
 sailed the following Friday, (two days after,) 
 he might live to reach home; if delayed any 
 longer he would not be able to leave even his 
 room. Mr. James said he would endeavor to 
 get the funds for his cabin fare among a few 
 friends in Liverpool. Mr. Knill said he would 
 try to raise a sufficient sum to cover his expen- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 281 
 
 see here and pay any little debts he might 
 Lave. But two days was a short time to do all 
 this in. However, Mr. James promised to 
 write the next day (Thursday) to say whether 
 he had been able to secure a cabin and to 
 raise the I'equisite means. What a sickly, ex- 
 citing time for a poor invalid ! What conflict- 
 ing hopes and fears one would have thought 
 would have agitated him! But no; he was 
 calm as an infant upon its mother's l)reast. 
 
 " On Friday morning early Mr. Ivnill called 
 to say a letter was come, the cabin was secured, 
 and Mr. Weed was to leave in the two o'clock 
 train. I immediately went down to arrange 
 every thing for him, pack his clothes, &c. I 
 found Mrs. Thomas, his kind friend, already 
 there. Though extremely faint and ill he 
 gave all necessary directions. Oh ! it was a 
 privilege to be with him that last morning, 
 witnessing the support that faith and a meek 
 reliance upon God imparted at that trying 
 juncture. 
 
 " After every thing was done for him that 
 thoughtful, loving hearts could suggest, he 
 lay down on the sofa for a little rest ; and I 
 sat alone with him, and gazed and wondered 
 to see that in the prospect of a boisterous 
 voyage in Decernher, alone and friendless, he 
 could be so calm, so serene ; but, indeed, his 
 24* 
 
282 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 head, like tlie beloved disciple's, was on the 
 Ijosoin of Jcsns, and the everlasting arms 
 were around him, lie gave nie his Hymn 
 Book and made me mark his favorite hymns. 
 I need not say how I value that as a relic of 
 one whom I loved and revered as a true and 
 most faithful friend. Now see the care that 
 God took of his servant. A cabin, replete 
 with such comforts as a vessel can afford, was 
 secured for liim ; Mr. Knill brought him a 
 nice little sura of money, that left him com- 
 fortably off after every thing was paid for ; 
 his medical man, Dr. Norton, came to bid 
 him adieu, and for his constant attendance 
 during some months would receive nothing 
 but his thanks ; one friend came with some 
 warm slippers ; another with a warm flannel 
 Avaistcoat and a pair of blankets, lest there 
 should not be sufficient on board the vessel ; 
 a third sent some English wine, that he liked 
 and suited him ; and some came to say adieu. 
 Mr. and Mrs. Thomas, who were ffointr to 
 Liverpool, took charge of him. At the sta- 
 tion near, our dear pastor, Mr. Knill, (who 
 assisted his tottering stei)s to the carriage,) 
 his wife and daughter, ourselves, and others 
 who came to take a last look. Ihit few words 
 were uttered, we saw he could not bear it, wo 
 looked our adieu, and as the carriage moved 
 
FAITH AND WOKICS. 283 
 
 on, and tlie receding train bore liim t'roni onr 
 siirht, we felt we should see his face no more 
 in this world, but then the eye of faith soared 
 upwards, and we caught a glimpse of the 
 glorilied body, and sanctified,' ha])py spirit, 
 bowing before the Throne. 
 
 " * No more fatigue, no more distress, 
 
 Nor sill, iior fears shall reach that place ; 
 No groans to niiagle with the songs 
 Which warble from immortal tongues. 
 
 " ' Oh ! long expected day, begin, 
 
 Dawn on these realms of woe and sin ; 
 Fain would we leave this weary road, 
 And sleep in death to rest with God.' 
 
 ."]S"ow, do we not see how God cared for 
 him? All his wants were fully supplied, as 
 much as it was possible under the circum- 
 stances. True, he was among strangers, but 
 faith in Jesus made them brethren, united to 
 him by the strong family bonds of the gospel, 
 and his desires were fulfilled, in that he was 
 preserved through the voyage and restored to 
 die among his loved ones. 
 
 "The God, who thus cared for him, who 
 put within him that faith, and then so emi- 
 nently honored it, says, ' Leave thy fatherless 
 children 'wnth me, I will preserve them alive, 
 and let thy widows trust in me.' I can fully 
 
2 Si EDWARD WKKD. 
 
 understand that the example of his faith is a 
 ' precious legacy' to yon ; may you ever be 
 enabled so to trust, and you ' shall never be 
 ashamed.' 
 
 " If the above curtailed account of the last 
 two months he spent in England will be of 
 any service to you, I shall be very glad. 
 Will you kindly acknowledge, as soon as you 
 conveniently can, the receipt of this? With 
 every feeling of respect, I am, my dear ma- 
 dam, 
 
 " Most truly and affectionately yours, 
 
 " jAiSfETTA HaKPEK." 
 
KEMARKS 
 
 ON THE 
 
 LIFE OF KEY. EDWAKD WEED, 
 
 BY THE REV. SAMUEL D. COCHRAN, 
 PATERSON, N. J., JUNE 23, 1851. 
 
 We are informed in the Sacred Oracles, that 
 the memory of the just is blessed, and that the 
 Apocalyptist heard a voice from heaven, say- 
 ing unto hinij " Write, blessed are the dead 
 who die in tiie Lord, from henceforth. Yea, 
 saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their 
 labors, and their works do follow them-*" These 
 transcendent benedictions most assuredl}' rest on 
 the memory of our dear friend, whose inanimate 
 body lies before us. Having long known him, 
 and enjoyed much intimate association with 
 him, as a most endeared and cherished friend, 
 I now stand before you, to make some brief 
 statements and remarks respecting his history 
 and character. My acquaintance and inter- 
 course commenced as far back as 1838. The 
 
286 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 confidence and cordiality of the most cemented 
 fricnddhip, have bound us together, and have 
 given me a knowledge of his heart and habi- 
 tudes, his ends, aims, and aspirations ; his 
 whole character, as a minister and a man, such 
 as few others on earth possess. I can, of course, 
 glance now at but a very few points and facts, 
 out of the many, with which I might, with due 
 time and preparation, entertain and edify you, 
 and stir up your minds to emulate his saintly 
 excellence. 
 
 Tlie first knowledge I bad of him was as an 
 Anti-Slavery agent and lecturer in Ohio, under 
 the appointment of the Ohio Anti-Slavery So- 
 ciety. In this capacity he labored some two 
 or three years, encountering much opposi- 
 tion, running many hazards from the violence 
 of the mobs, and achieving great results over 
 a large portion of the State. In this course 
 of labor-he was remarkably free from all the 
 untempered mortar, witii whicii so many of 
 t.hos6 who have been engaged in the same 
 work, have attempted to build the dilapidated 
 walls of the temple of human freedom. No 
 malign element embittered his spirit, no 
 fierce and sweeping denunciations fell from his 
 lips ; his manner was bland, his language mo- 
 derate, his arguments well balanced, and adapt- 
 ed to convince and persuade. Multitudes who 
 
FAITH AJSTD WORKS. 287 
 
 went to hear him, full of liostility, and purpos- 
 ing to make disturbance, sometimes even to 
 abuse and injure him, were led to hear him 
 patiently, and a large portion of them to go 
 away embracing his presentations as the trutii. 
 Among all the adv^ocates of this cause who 
 have served it as lecturers, there probably has 
 not been one so well adapted, on the whole, to 
 advance its interests, or who effected more fur 
 its happy inauguration in the heads and hearts 
 of his audiences, and the communities he visit- 
 ed, during an equal length of time. Oli, that 
 all its advocates, by lip and pen, had been like 
 him. His advocacy was that of a servant of 
 God and his revelations, of one who let not his 
 devotion to this cause push out of sight and 
 destroy his interest in all other causes, especi- 
 ally the greatest and grandest of all causes, the 
 conversion and spiritual renovation of the race, 
 through "' the glorious gospel of the blessed 
 God." In '38 he left this work, and assumed 
 the pastorship of the Free Presbyterian cliurch 
 in Mount Yernon, Ohio, having been licensed 
 before he went out on his Anti-Slavery agency. 
 His labors in Mount Yernon and its vicinity, 
 for miles around, were most abundant and 
 most propitious. Commencing with a vast 
 amount of prejudice against him and his charge, 
 he succeeded in overcomins^ it to a most re- 
 
288 KDWAKI) WKRIK 
 
 markable dci^jree, in hrini»;ln(^ many to enihrace 
 the g(jspel, and in building u[) the church of his 
 charge. lie has doubtless already struck hands 
 in iieaven with some of those who were won to 
 Christ, during his sfay in that place. 
 
 Long will his memory be blessed by many 
 others there, for the spiritual good he conveyed 
 to thetn, in stimulating t!iem to a higher piety 
 than they already possessed, or in securing their 
 induction into the family of God. 
 
 In May of '42, he deemed it his duty to 
 bid adieu to that field, and transfer his labors, 
 and cares, and prayers to Paterson. And you 
 know with what faith, fulness, and winning 
 grace he went in and out among you, and 
 broke unto you the bread of life. After re- 
 maining here nearly two years, he was induced 
 to accept a call to the first Free Presbyterian 
 church in Brooklyn, L. I. His labors there 
 were highly successful, some fifty members 
 being added to the church of his charge during 
 the time he remained there. The action of 
 some leading indivi(]uals in that church, which 
 he has always since regarded as unjustifiable 
 and wrong, and by which he was exceedingly 
 grieved, led Lim to resign his station there, 
 and to return again to this church, in accord- 
 ance with a new call from it. This church 
 received the residue of his earthly rainistra- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 289 
 
 tions. Ahout two years since, as yon Icnow, 
 he was obliijed to suspend his services among 
 you, on account of the progress of the disease 
 which has consuinnuited its mission, by uri- 
 tenantino; this wasted form of its iidiabitino^ 
 spirit, dismissing it to its mansions above, and 
 this mouldering mortality to the tomb. 
 
 Such is a brief outline of liis historj' as known 
 to me, and partly known to most of those who 
 hear me. I will now call your attention to 
 some features of his character more especially 
 as a Christian, and a minister of Christ, 1st. 
 I regard his personal religious history as a very 
 distinguished illustration of that beautiful text 
 — " The path of the just is as the shining light, 
 tliat shineth moz-e and more unto the perfect 
 day." His course has been most obviously 
 marked with constant increase and develop- 
 ment of spiritual life, passing clearly before the 
 eyes of all who knew him, and had the vision 
 to see it, through all the stages that conduct 
 from the springing blade of first faith,, to the 
 maturity of the saintly character, represented 
 by the full corn in the ear. It has been my 
 privilege to observe this progress of develop- 
 ment along the line of his progi-ess, and to wit- 
 ness its consummation in exhibitions as rich 
 and precious as any I have ever known. In- 
 deed, it seems almost impossible, that any one 
 
290 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 should reach a pitch of faith more absolute, 
 than he evinced towards the close of his career, 
 and indeed during most of liis sufferings. la 
 circumstances of absolute dependence on others, 
 under God, for the means of subsistence for 
 himself and tamily, his confidence that their 
 wants would be fully supplied, never once, to 
 my knowledge, seemed to falter. And most 
 signally and remarkably was his confidence 
 realized. The extent to which hearts and hands 
 have been opened, and extended to minister to 
 their necessities, is well nigh unparalleled in 
 the annals even of wonder-working faith. Again 
 and again did aid come, in the hour of extrem- 
 ity, from sources and in abundance incalculable 
 bv any orditiary mijde of estimation. x\iid the 
 Bame confidence that he evinced in this respect 
 reigned in equal ascendancy respecting God's 
 spiritual provisions for his soul's need. A few 
 days before his exit, as he was expressing to 
 me and one or two others present his conviction 
 that he must soon die, tears burst freely from 
 his eyes. A fear seemed instantly to come 
 over his mind, that his emotion might be inter- 
 preted by us as a token of doubt or misgiving 
 respecting his future state, and he spoke out 
 earnestly, "I do not weep because I have any 
 fears or doubts. Blessed be God, ' I can read 
 my title clear to mansions in the skies.' It is 
 
FAITH AND WORICS. 291 
 
 nothing but nervous weakness." Just before, 
 we had sung, at his request, that beautiful 
 hjinn of AVatts, from which he quoted this 
 line. Such was his constant state of mind, 
 leading him frequently to say the same or simi- 
 lar words of unfaltering reliance on the grace 
 of Christ — among others — " I know in whom I 
 have believed. ^^ 
 
 2nd. He was alwa3's characterized with a 
 large catholicity of spirit. He was a stranger 
 to any narrow or hampering sectarianism. 
 His Christian sympathies and regard were as 
 large as evangelical Christianity. And it cost 
 him no sacrifice of feelings or prejudices to em- 
 brace and commingle with the children of God 
 of every name. It was a sufficient passport to 
 his heart's purest outgoings towards any one of 
 all the household of faith, to know that he sus- 
 tained such a relation. Hence all measures and 
 efforts and prosperities of any of the different 
 denominations of Christians, had his purest 
 prayers, and gave him highest joy. 
 
 3'rd. He was emphatically a Bible man. All his 
 hopes rested on the sure foundation of the glori- 
 ous revelations of God in his Word. How many 
 hours have we spent in converse on the themes 
 and surpassing excellencies of the living ora- 
 cles. During his sickness, his mind grasped, 
 as it were, anew his old and cherished theme 
 
29^ EDWiLRD WEED. 
 
 of the atonement. And when he came to my 
 house, a little less than a year ago, he again and 
 again expressed his desire to live, that he might 
 tell the world about the importance of its ac- 
 cepting the gospel as ajpositive religion, not of 
 man nor by man, but of God and his given 
 Son. 
 
 4th. He exceedingly loved to preach the gos- 
 pel. It was his chief delight, his meat and drink. 
 And during his waning life, he clung to the 
 last to the hope against hope, that he might re- 
 cover, so that he might again preach the gospel, 
 and preach it better than ever before. This 
 was the last element of his earthly hopes, that 
 went down amidst the wreck of dissolving 
 mortality. 
 
 5th. He was a very grateful man. Any favor 
 bestowed upon him, by any one, commanded in 
 him the profoundest gratitude. Some of his 
 benefactors can doubtless testify t-o his expres- 
 sions of gratitude, to such a degree as really to 
 oppress them. And this spirit glowed with 
 supreme ardor towards God. " The goodness 
 of God — the goodness of God," how often was 
 this on his lips ! 
 
 6th. He was an untiring laborer. Not an 
 hour of his life was spent without some assidu- 
 ous application. Preparing sermons and preach- 
 ing them. Studying the living oracles, or some- 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 293 
 
 thing which he deemed valuable to him in his 
 station, visiting his people, or, in some other 
 way, every hour was used up. And there is no 
 doubt that he overworked, and hastened the 
 termination of his career. How often are min- 
 isters overdoing when perhaps some of their 
 people are blaming them for not doing more. 
 
 Tth. lie was a very benevolent man. His 
 hand was always open to giv^, not only to the 
 full extent of his ability, but beyond. Out of 
 his limited salary he told me on one occasion 
 that he had given to benevolent objects some 
 $700, during his pastorship, from 184:2. He 
 seemed fully to realize the Saviour's maxim, 
 " It is more blessed to give than to receive." 
 
THE SUBSTANCE 
 
 OF AN 
 
 ADDKESS 
 
 DELIVERED AT 
 
 THE FUNERAL OF KEY. E. WEED, 
 
 BY REV. W. H. HORNBLOWER, 
 Pcuttor of the First Presbyterian Church ofPatnr$on, Jan. 23, 1851. 
 
 TnosE motives which render it indelicate 
 and inexpedient to make personal allusions to 
 the dead, cannot operate in the present in- 
 stance. We are assembled at the funeral of a 
 man whose life was spent in public, and 
 whose character belongs to the public ; of a 
 Christian, whose spiritual experience is the 
 common inheritance of all true disciples ; 
 and of a pastor, the recollection of whose 
 faithful labors is a solemn duty, as well as a 
 pleasing privilege. Of the early life of the 
 Ilev. Edward Weed, we have already heard. 
 I am requested to speak of the character and 
 
FAITH AND WOEKS. 295 
 
 results of his labors here. Tlie one word 
 which may express the character of his life is, 
 usefulness. His was a practical and a useful 
 mind. His qualifications for usefulness were 
 of a high order. He was a man of great 
 natural ability. He might, under more pro- 
 pitious circumstances, have taken a more 
 conspicuous position than he actually at- 
 tained. But he conquered many difficulties, 
 and rose in spite of obstacles, commanded re- 
 spect from all, was constantly increasing his 
 influence, and if his life had been spared till 
 that period when all the powers are fully ma- 
 tured, he would have secured a well-merited 
 name in all the churches. Tlie deficiencies 
 of early and thorough mental discipline ; the 
 imperfections of an education constantly in- 
 terrupted by the demands of embarrassed cir- 
 cumstances, were deeply felt and lamented by 
 himself But with a natural thirst for know- 
 ledge, quickened by the desire to serve and 
 glorify God, he did all that could be done to 
 qualify himself for the ministry of Christ ; 
 and never remitted his efl;orts and studies till 
 the fatal disease, that has taken away his life, 
 rendered it necessary. In general literature 
 he was well read, and believing that books 
 are expressions of the character of the age, he 
 made it a duty to read many of those light 
 
290 EDWABD WEED. 
 
 works in which the sentiments that are most 
 popular usually find expression. In theology 
 he was a close and persevering student, and 
 he read with unusual discrimination, always, 
 of course, preserving those tendencies which 
 his theological training in college and semi- 
 nary had determined. The Bihle was espe- 
 cially his great study ; he was familiar with 
 its contents, and availed himself to the extent 
 of his ability of those critical helps which our 
 age has so largely multi2:)lied. But while he 
 studied this volume as a critic and a scholar, 
 his heart was always as much interested as 
 his head. It was the i-evelations of his Heav- 
 enly Father, in Jesus Christ his Son, oiily to 
 be learned by the teaching of the Holy Ghost. 
 He studied it with the keenest relish, never 
 fiiiled to extract from every part of it spiritual 
 nourishment, and he found every word profit- 
 able to his soul. 
 
 One principal element in his usefulness was 
 his sound practical judgment. He was never 
 so mnch of a student as to forget the ordinary 
 thoughts, feelings, and habits of the men en- 
 gaged in secular pursuits. Hence his opin- 
 ions were always formed upon the common 
 sense views of things, and his plans were 
 adapted to the world as it is. He consulted 
 time and circnmstances, and was seldom inju- 
 
FAITH AND ^\ OKK8. 
 
 297 
 
 diciously inappropriate. His sympathies were 
 strong. He had the rare ability of putting 
 himself in the position of another man, and 
 then supposing how he would feel, think, or 
 act in his circumstances. Tliis enabled him 
 to enter into another man's heart, and saved 
 him from that asperity of feeling and judg- 
 ment in reference to the views and acts of 
 others which men of narrow mind entertain. 
 His active and well-informed mind, his strong 
 common sense and ready sympathies, added 
 to great cheerfulness of disposition, made him 
 a most agreeable companion. He was always 
 entertaining, and without any parade of supe- 
 rior intelligence, was always instructive in 
 conversation, I doubt if he ever mingled in 
 any circle without leaving a pleasant and 
 happy impression. And while he never omit- 
 ted any opportunity of uttering the most 
 solemn truths, and giving spiritual instruc- 
 tion, he was wholly free from sanctimonious- 
 ness, and innocent of all religious affectation. 
 He never assumed the serious air or the awful 
 countenance, but was always the easy and 
 natural Christian friend and gentleman. He 
 was industrious, persevering, and energetic in 
 pursuing his plans. His power of application 
 was great, and hence the success of his eiforts 
 were extraordinary. These habits, together 
 
298 EDWARD WEEDj 
 
 with his good jiulrrment and knowledge of the 
 world, rendered liim an excellent man of 
 business. lie received many offers of a busi- 
 ness nature when a young man, which would 
 have tempted a more worldly mind to forsake 
 the puljjit for the desk. His facility in all 
 business transactions was a great element in 
 his usefulness as a pastor. All the qualities 
 of which we have sjioken were strengthened 
 and crowned by the gifts of divine grace. 
 He was a child of God, an " Israelite, in- 
 deed, in whom was no guile." The strongest 
 characteristic of his piety was faith. He 
 rested with entire confidence on the merits of 
 Christ, in beautiful simplicity confided him- 
 self wholly to the care and direction of Divine 
 Providence, and never doubted the love and 
 active agency of God in all that befell him. 
 Prayerfulness, I should suppose, was his, and 
 those who lived with him probably, have a 
 good testimony in this respect. Love and 
 zeal were striking characteristics of his spirit- 
 ual character. He was a self-denying pastor. 
 Much as you did for him, he renounced more 
 for you. He was laborious. He was a friend 
 to the poor and afflicted. He was faithful to 
 souls. He sought not yours, but yon. This 
 dear friend is no more. 
 
FAITH AND WORKS. 299 
 
 tFKOM THE OBERLIN EVANGELIbT.] 
 
 The late Kev. Edwakd Weed, of Pater- 
 son, New Jersey. — Such a man as Edward 
 Weed should not bo suffered to pass from 
 earth without due honor to his worth, and an 
 earnest effort to commend his excellent quali- 
 ties to the general imitation of young minis- 
 ters. Few men have more constantly striven 
 to be faithful to souls. He was instant in 
 season and out of season, and spared no labor 
 or self-denial which promised to result in the 
 ediUcation of Christians, or the conversion of 
 sinners. And he was uncommonly success- 
 ful. Powerful revivals blessed his ministry, 
 and the churches of which he was pastor 
 grew in grace and in the knowledge of Christ. 
 It was the happiness of the writer to assist 
 him in some of his special efforts, and the re- 
 membrance of the energy, faithfulness, and 
 wisdom, which he showed on these occasions, 
 will not easily be erased from his mind. 
 Though unusually prudent in the use of his 
 strength, he was, like Paul, ever ready to be 
 offered for the spiritual benefit of his fellow- 
 men ; and perhaps, in the circumstances of 
 his people, he saw occasion for the laborious 
 exertion which involved the sacrifice of his 
 remaining health and his valuable life. Be- 
 
300 EDWARD WEED. 
 
 fore Edward "Weed became a pastor he acted 
 ip the State of Ohio as an anti-slavery lectu- 
 rer. Thou^li no man displayed more uncom- 
 promising lidelity, he was neard in the days 
 of mobs and Lynch law with unusual accept- 
 ance, and gained a patient, favorable hearing, 
 where many others would have been repulsed ; 
 for he knew how to blend in harmonious 
 union the utmost plainness of speech and 
 winningness of manner, and to eschew in 
 the faithful urging of powerful argument and 
 elfective appeal, the "grievous words that stir 
 up anger." He made most men feel that he 
 was guileless and transparent as a child, and 
 was endued with a kind, genial, and truly 
 friendly and liberal spirit. lie carried these 
 qualities with him through life, and they en- 
 deared him to many who owed their salvation 
 to God's blessing ou his unflinching fidelity 
 in rebuke and admonition. 
 
 Edward AVeed was a reu^arkably studious 
 man. Tliough so abundant in active labors, 
 preaching, lecturing, visiting, &c., more than 
 most pastors, he always found time for study. 
 Even amidst his special efforts, or while tra- 
 velling as an agent or public lecturer, he 
 rarely let a day pass in which he did not 
 faithfully devote some time to careful mental 
 improvement. The fruit of his efforts ap 
 
FAITH AiTD WORKS. 301 
 
 peared in a constant improvement in liis 
 preaching and other public eiforts, so that he 
 was a growing man until the ability to study 
 utterly ceased. The practical end of study 
 he always held in view : to know the truth 
 better himself, to live in it better, and to con- 
 duct his people onward and upward, while he 
 sought himself unostentatiously to lead the 
 way. 
 
 Edward Weed was eminently an indepen- 
 dent man. He had no pride in his indepen- 
 dence, but, as a Christian duty, he endeavored 
 on every subject to think and act for himself. 
 He was ever ready to acknowledge and avail 
 himself of superior knowledge or wisdom, but 
 he appeared never to lose sight of his personal 
 respons.bility for his opinions and line of ac- 
 tion. Sj)lendor, acuteness, or depth of intel- 
 lect, had his warm, unstinted admiration ; but 
 they could not cramp the free exercise of his 
 own powers, much less dazzle or fascinate him 
 into subjection. And we have mistaken his 
 character, if he did not wish the humblest 
 mind he was called to instruct to be indepen- 
 dent in the same sense ; and that the unity 
 of the saints around him should be founded 
 on no slavish reliance on human authority, 
 but on an humble, honest, and industrious 
 endeavor, on the part of all and each, to see 
 
302 EDWAKU "WEED. 
 
 tlic trutli ^\ itli tlieir own eyes, and perceive 
 it with tlieir own minds. His honest inde- 
 pendence, and hearty toleration of the inde- 
 pendence of others, were among the virtues 
 that made him one of the most beloved of 
 ministers, and one of the most agreeable of 
 associates and fellow-laborers. As a conse- 
 quence of the honesty and independence of 
 his character, he was ever ready to prove all 
 things new, of a promising aspect ; and sturdy 
 in holding fast what was precious in the old. 
 
 lie was one of the last men to set his sail to 
 catch the popular breeze, and one of the last, 
 too, to rush into an unexamined novelty. 
 "When he had become satisfied of the claims 
 of any new view of truth, or of any proposed 
 reform, it was as far as possible from his 
 practice to hurl anathemas at such as were 
 not found promptly to fall into the new -form- 
 ing ranks. But it was his zealous endeavor, 
 while he avowed his own convictions with 
 the utmost frankness, to choose acceptable 
 words and arguments, witn M'hich to com- 
 mend the cause he had espoused to the minds 
 and hearts of other men. Conscious of no 
 moral cowardice or time-serving policy him- 
 self, he was slow — without overwhelming 
 evidence — to ascribe those odious qualities to 
 his brethren. He did not, however, shut his 
 
FAITH AND WOKKS. 303 
 
 eyes to the tanlts of individuals or classes in 
 the state or in tlie cliurch. So far as the 
 faculty of discernment was given him, he re- 
 garded it as his solemn duty to see things 
 just as they were, " to extenuate nothing — to 
 set down naught in malice." But when he 
 brought a charge, or uttered a rebuke, it 
 was done in the spirit of moderation and 
 love, and wath unsparing fidelity. His blows 
 inflicted only the faithful wounds of a friend. 
 To private friends he was as faithful as to his 
 public charge, and the pungency of his re- 
 bukes and admonitions mingled ever with 
 the fragrance of love. 
 
 Edward Weed loved the gospel of God's 
 love. It was the treasure of his own soul, 
 and he loved to preach it to perishing men. 
 The amplitude of the provisions of mercy, the 
 riches of grace, the fullness of the promises, 
 the glory and terrors of the law, were themes 
 on which he dwelt with holy and ever-grow- 
 ing enthusiasm. His passions circled around 
 the cross. It was to his soul the centre of in- 
 finite attractions, and the radiant centre of 
 light. He gloried in his functions as a minis- 
 ter of Christ, and it was his joy as well as 
 highest honor. And in his ministrations it 
 was seen that the unction from the Holy One 
 was upon him. It would, however, be a great 
 
30^: EDWARD WEED. 
 
 mistake to suppose that he dwelt in a region 
 of excitement. His strong interest in the 
 high realities of revelation had become to 
 liim so much a second nature, that a calm 
 and cheerful sobriety was one of his striking 
 characteristics. 
 
 Edward Weed was a remarkably happy 
 Christian. lie almost always wore a cheer- 
 ful, beaming countenance ; the buoyancy of 
 his heart continued to his dying day. After 
 he had been long sick, he wrote to a friend, 
 that his long afflictions had not drawn a tear 
 from his eyes, but that the kindness of his 
 friends had made him weep many tears of 
 gratitude. His last words, as reported in the 
 " New York Independent," expressed the 
 fixed peace and calm joy of his departing 
 soul. He has left behind him many men of 
 deeper learning, many of more brilliant ge- 
 nius, many who occiipied more conspicuous 
 posts of influence, but it Av^ould be hard to 
 find one of whom, were he gone, it could be 
 more emphatically said, he was a lovely, a 
 noble, and a true man. 
 
 John Morgan. 
 
APPENDIX. 
 
 NOTE A. 
 
 One of the last things that Mr. Weed did, before he 
 was taken ill in '49, was in company with a brother 
 minister, to canvass Passaic County, soliciting subscrip- 
 tions to redeem a pledge that had been made to the 
 County Bible Society to raise $1,000 in that County 
 for the benefit of said Society. He headed the sub- 
 scriptions of the membei"s of his own church and con- 
 gregation with 81 0. He was soon after taken sick, his 
 labore suspended, and his household goods, horse and 
 carriage, were sold to pay his debts. Many of his 
 friends thought his circumstances should release him 
 from responsibility to pay this subscription ; but ho 
 considered it as much a debt as his groceiy bills, and 
 earnestly requested that whether he lived or died, it 
 might be duly paid. Thus did he ever " Seek first the 
 kingdom of Heaven and its righteousness."