a/rv"-* 
 
 UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 
 
s 
 
CONSECRATED TALENTS: 
 
 OB, THE 
 
 LIFE OF MRS. MARY W. MASON. 
 
 WITH AN INTRODUCTION BY BISHOP JANES. 
 
 • 
 
 New Vork: 
 
 CARLTON & LANAHAN. 
 
 SAN FKANCISCO: E. THOMAS. 
 
 CINCINNATI: HITCHCOCK & WALDBN. 
 
 1870. 
 
■-«$$> 
 
 Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1870, by 
 CARLTON & LANAHAN, 
 
 in the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for the Southern 
 District of New York. 
 
INTEODUCTION. 
 
 The biographies of Holy Scripture, written under 
 the inspiration of the Holy Ghost, constitute one of 
 the most interesting and important parts of the book 
 of books. As the physical world, the sun, moon, or 
 stars, the grass, the grain, the flowers, the fruits, the 
 beauty, the harmony, the grandeur of the universe 
 display the natural attributes of God, so these relig- 
 ious personages who have been recovered from their 
 lapsed and sinful state, and restored to the image 
 and fellowship of God, show forth his moral attri- 
 butes. The illustration is as perfect and conclusive 
 in the latter as in the former instance. The same is 
 just as true of the salvation of men now as it was in 
 those days when the Bible was being written. Every 
 moral result must have a moral cause. If, then, sin- 
 ful men are made partakers of a divine nature, there 
 must be a dUinity that abhors sin and loves holiness, 
 and moved by these affections, employs an adequate 
 agency to influence and produce this transformation. 
 These obituaries are also important as showing the 
 attainments in goodness men may make in this pres- 
 ent life. The same authority that can pardon one 
 guilty soul, and the same power that can sanctify one 
 depressed spirit, can, on the same terms, forgive all 
 
4 Introduction. 
 
 who are condemned, and renew all who are unholy. 
 All spiritual good which has been received and en- 
 joyed by any man, may be attained and enjoyed by 
 all men who will seek it in the same way and by the 
 same means. What beatitudes these examples of 
 spiritual life and gracious experiences show to be 
 within our reach. The faith of Abraham, the meek- 
 ness of Moses, the patience of Job, the devotion of 
 David, the integrity of Daniel. Like Enoch, we may 
 walk with God ; like John, we may love the Saviour, 
 and be beloved by the Saviour ; like Paul, we may 
 keep the faith, finish our course, and see the crown 
 of righteousness which shall be given us by the right- 
 eous Judge. "Whatsoever things were written 
 aforetime were written for our learning, that we, 
 through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, 
 might have hope." 
 
 These personal histories are also an essential part 
 of the general history of the kingdom of God in the 
 earth. What would a history of the Israelites be with 
 the character and acts of Moses left out ? How could 
 a true and philosophical history of the primitive 
 Church be written without stating the conversion of 
 Saul ? how Mary chose the good pa^t ? how the 
 Lord opened the heart of Lydia ? how the dying 
 Stephen saw Jesus ? or how Aquila and Priscilla 
 expounded unto Apollos the way of God more per- 
 fectly ? How Paul and Christian women labored in 
 the Gospel at Philippi ? how the Apostle sent his 
 salutation to the beloved Persis, which labored much 
 in the Lord ? A correct biography of Luther and 
 
Introduction. 5 
 
 Melanchthdn and Zwingle would be a pretty full his- 
 tory of the Reformation. Leave personal experience 
 and personal effort, individual character and individ- 
 ual actions out of Methodism, and what would be 
 left ? 
 
 These two sayings of Mr. Wesley : " I felt my 
 heart strangely warmed ; I felt I did trust in Christ 
 alone for salvation, and an assurance was given me 
 that he had taken away my sins, even mine, and 
 saved me from the law of sin and death ;" " The best 
 of all is, God is with us," are an epitome of Methodistic 
 history in England. A biography of Barbara Heck, 
 and Philip Embury, and Captain Webb would give a 
 very full portraiture of Methodism in this country. 
 Since their day, in this city, a continuous succession 
 of noble men and women of kindred spirit, of like 
 faith, and of corresponding actions, have sustained 
 and extended the Church. Among these worthies 
 for a long time lived and labored Mrs. Mary W. Ma- 
 son. Having become a disciple of Christ in her early 
 womanhood, she identified herself with the Methodist 
 Episcopal Chunsh, notwithstanding the opposition, 
 and even persecution, of her friends. She soon be- 
 came deeply experienced in the things of God. She 
 not only engaged earnestly in promoting all the ex- 
 isting institutions of the Church, but by her efforts 
 and influence inaugurated others. Her heroic, ear- 
 nest, steadfast life shows what may be accomplished 
 by an individual having God's blessing, by patient 
 continuance in well doing. It is not mine to analyze 
 her character nor describe her life. This has been 
 
6 Introduction. 
 
 well and faithfully done by filial hands ; but I must 
 be allowed to say I have known no person to whom 
 the description of female excellence, as given by the 
 pen of inspiration in the thirty-first chapter of the 
 Book of Proverbs, more fitly or more fully applies. 
 Verily " her own works praise her in the gates," and 
 "Her children arise up and call her blessed." This 
 book will be a useful* contribution to biographical lit- 
 erature, the divinest kind of literature. The book of 
 God's remembrance belongs to it. O what descrip- 
 tions of characters, and what statements of experience, 
 and what histories of persons, that book contains ! 
 It fills me with rapture to anticipate reading them in 
 the light, and during the evolutions, of eternity. O 
 God, grant that all readers of this little volume may 
 share with me that pleasure in heaven ! Amen. 
 
Contents. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 BIRTH AND PARENTAGE. 
 
 Birth — Parentage — Childhood — School-days — Youth — Conviction 
 in a Ball-room — Illness — Conversion — Persecutions — Pious Uncle — 
 Fragment of Journal Page 1 1 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 DEPARTURE FROM HOME. 
 
 Departure from Home — Arrival in New York, 1810 — Teaching 
 
 in Friends' School — Joins Old John-street Church — Success as a 
 
 Teacher — 111 Health — Reminiscences by an Aged Friend — Extracts 
 
 from Journal 23 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 FEMALE ASSISTANCE SOCIETY. 
 
 Journal, 1813 — Deep Religious Exercises — Visits among the Poor 
 — City Prison, etc. — Formation of Female Assistance Society — 
 Success of Schools — Journal, 1814 39 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 ORIGIN OF METHODIST SUNDAY-SCHOOLS IN NEW YORK CITY. 
 
 Formation of First Methodist Sunday-School — Dr. Phoebus — Ste- 
 phen Dando — Francis Hall and "Wife — Lancaster S. Burling — Old 
 Minute Book — Recollections of A. C. Wheeler — Marriage, 1817 — 
 First Methodist Book Room — Private School — Sexton of John- 
 street 67 
 
8 Contents. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 FORMATION OF THE FEMALE MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 
 
 Formation of Female Missionary Society, i8i9TjtList of Officers 
 
 and Managers — Pastor's Wife, 1820 — Visits among the Poor — Rev. 
 
 John Summerfield — Yellow Fever — Sickness — Death Visits the 
 
 Family — Journal Page 82 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 ASYLUM FOR LYING-IN-WOMEN. 
 
 Asylum for Lying-in-Women — Appointment to the Allen-street 
 Church — Death of Anna — Removal from the City — New Castle — 
 Newburgh — Rev. James B. Finley and Between-the-Logs — Bishop 
 George — Residence in Troy — Benevolent Enterprises — Visit of Rev. 
 William Case and Indian Converts — Journal — First Juvenile Mis- 
 sionary Society— Private School — Rev. Samuel Merwin — Rev. J. B. 
 Stratten Hi 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 REMOVAL TO NEW YORK. 
 
 Removal to New York, 1832 — Cholera— Greene-street — Appeal 
 for the Publishing Fund — School — Burning of Book Room — Interest 
 in Youth — Greene-street — Female Benevolent Society — Death of 
 Daughter Mary — Letters to Mrs. Wilkins 136 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 DANGEROUS ILLNESS. 
 
 Dangerous Illness — Letter to Mrs. Wilkins — Death of Mr. Mason 
 — Resignation as Sunday-School Superintendent — Death of Daughter 
 Anna — Letters to Mrs. Wilkins — Sketches of Secretaries of Female 
 Missionary Board, etc 155 
 
 CHAPTER IX.' 
 
 FIVE POINTS MISSION; 
 Five Points Mission — Institution for the Aged and Infirm — 
 Bishop Hedding — Extracts from Diary — Her Portrait — Letters to 
 Mrs. Lane 180 
 
Contents. 9 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 woman's hospital. 
 
 Woman's Hospital — Extracts from Diary — Letters to Mrs. Lane 
 — 'Diary — Dr. Hannah — Death of Miss Mary Bangs — Letters to 
 Mrs. Lane— Diary — Colored Orphan Asylum — Diary — Death of 
 Son William Page 207 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 MRS. MASON'S LAST DAYS. 
 
 Mrs. Mason's Last Days — Death — Funeral — Obituaries — Tributes 
 from Friends — Sunday-Schools — Five Points Mission 246 
 
LIFE 
 
 OF 
 
 MRS. MARY W. MASON. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 BIRTH AND PARENTAGE. 
 
 Birth — Parentage — Childhood — School-days — Youth — Conviction in 
 a Ball-room — Illness — Conversion — Persecutions — Pious Uncle — 
 Fragment of Journal. 
 
 Mrs. Mary W. Mason, eldest daughter of William 
 and Elizabeth Morgan, was born July 5, 1791, in 
 the city of Cork, Ireland, whence her parents emi- 
 grated to America, and settled in Philadelphia, when 
 Mary was three years of age. Her father was a shoe- 
 maker in humble circumstances, but industrious and 
 enterprising, which resulted in his rapid rise in the 
 new world. He had been a Wesleyan in the old 
 country, but relapsed into a cold, indifferent state as 
 he became absorbed in the pursuit of wealth. Her 
 mother was a woman of commanding presence, vig- 
 orous intellect, and of remarkable talent for conversa- 
 tion ; but having imbibed the infidel sentiments of 
 Thomas Paine and his contemporaries, used her talents 
 in open opposition to religion. Notwithstanding the 
 neglect of early religious instruction, Mary was a 
 thoughtful child, and seemed to have, in a measure, 
 
12 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 the fear of God before her eyes. One Sabbath, being 
 at play with her dolls in an upper room, a part of the 
 ceiling suddenly gave way, precipitating articles from 
 the floor above upon her. She was greatly terrified, 
 supposing that God had sent the Wicked One to 
 carry her of! in punishment for the desecration of his 
 holy day. She was remarkably fond of pets, tending 
 them with great tenderness and solicitude. Many a 
 tale of these favorites has she recounted to her chil- 
 dren and grandchildren. When a child of nine years 
 she was often sent by her mother on errands to an 
 asylum near by, on which occasions she would say to 
 herself, " When I am grown up I mean to found an 
 asylum." Thus in her tender years her heart was 
 moved in sympathy toward the unfortunate. 
 
 Mary's education seems to have been sadly neg- 
 lected, for at the age of ten she could not read. 
 About that time she commenced attending school, 
 made rapid progress, and until the completion of her 
 education evinced intense thirst for knowledge. In 
 her earlier school-days she had a writing master, who, 
 being a severe man, filled her with terror, so that she 
 much dreaded his rebukes. One day, looking at her 
 copy, (with which she had taken special pains,) he 
 said, " Mary, if your writing is no better to-morrow 
 I will certainly ferule your hands." 
 
 Poor Mary went home in great distress, but com- 
 forted herself by telling her sorrows to her heavenly 
 Father, imploring him to soften the heart of her cruel 
 teacher. The next day found Mary calmly writing 
 her copy, which, on comparison, she saw was no bet- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 13 
 
 ter than that of the day previous. The dreaded 
 master inspected it, and smilingly expressed his 
 approbation. Mary's heart was lightened, for she felt 
 her prayer was answered. 
 
 So diligent was she in her studies, and so anxious 
 to improve every moment, that her book was ever at 
 hand. " Many a time," said she, " have I walked the 
 floor with my baby sister in my arms, with my book 
 held so that I could study ; and even while sewing or 
 knitting, have I had it open onmy knee that I might 
 glance at it occasionally." Mary's ambition was to 
 prepare herself to be a teacher, but, fearing that her 
 father would not allow her to remain at school as long 
 as she desired, she voluntarily promised that if he 
 would do so, " she would in return teach her sisters," 
 which promise she kept faithfully. Under difficulties 
 and hinderances of various kinds were passed her 
 school years, but by dint of many personal sacrifices, 
 and a persevering energy in overcoming obstacles she 
 mad«r commendable progress. Providentially, Mary 
 was led to enter the "Young Ladies' Academy," of 
 Philadelphia, a high school, eminent for its thorough- 
 ness, and governed by a Board of Trustees among 
 whom were numbered distinguished citizens. It was 
 then under the charge of two brothers by the name 
 of Bassett, excellent, pious, conscientious men, who 
 labored faithfully with their pupils to improve their 
 understandings and hearts. That on Mary their 
 labor was not lost was evinced by the rapid improve- 
 ment and development of a mind already thirsting 
 for knowledge. Mary was soon an acknowledged 
 
14 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 leader among her school-mates, at times being in- 
 trusted with the care of the younger classes, thus 
 receiving a training which was to fit her for her future 
 course in life. The diploma which she received on 
 graduating from this Academy in 1808 she preserved 
 with great care, and is now before us, signed by four 
 of the Trustees. Specimens of ornamental needle- 
 work, and of landscape painting, have also been pre- 
 served as tokens of those school-days. 
 
 The ambition of Mary's parents was to see her 
 elegant and refined, and for this purpose she was 
 encouraged to attend balls, and to dress in gay attire. 
 
 About this time, her Uncle John Morgan, (a pious 
 Wesleyan local preacher,) came with his family to 
 reside in Philadelphia. He took a most affectionate 
 interest in Mary's spiritual welfare, and faithfully 
 exhorted her to turn to the Saviour ; which, added to 
 the gracious influence of the Holy Spirit, opened her 
 mind to conviction. Being at a ball one night, while 
 engaged in dancing, she suddenly fainted. On return- 
 ing to consciousness, her first thought was, " If I 
 should die, what would become of my smil?" She 
 was conveyed to the house of her uncle, (that being 
 nearest). A long illness ensued, during which her 
 life was despaired of ; indeed, at times her breathing 
 could only be detected by placing a looking-glass over 
 her mouth. Her uncle informed her of her danger- 
 ous situation, saying, "Mary, are you prepared to 
 die ? " to which she replied, " I am not." The severe 
 mental struggle which followed brought ©n a crisis 
 of her disease, which resulted in recovery. Shortly 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 15 
 
 after, she asked her uncle if the words " Come unto 
 me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will 
 give you rest," were in the Bible. To which he 
 replied, " Yes." Shortly after the Lord spoke peace 
 to her soul ; from that time she mended, and soon 
 after she rose from her sick-bed, and went from house 
 to house telling what the Lord had done for her, so 
 that the neighbors said, " Here comes the crazy girl." 
 Old things had passed away, and, behold, all things 
 had become new. 
 
 Mary now felt it her duty to leave off her 
 jewelry and gay clothing, to cease attendance on 
 vain amusements, and to lead a new life. Bitter per- 
 secution followed, from her mother especially, whose 
 plans for her daughter's worldly advancement were 
 so suddenly interrupted. She opposed her attending 
 the means of grace, particularly class meeting. To 
 conceal her class tickets, (which were used in those 
 days, each having on it a verse of Scripture,) Mary 
 used to hide them between the linings of her shoe. 
 Firmly she stood her trials in the strength of her 
 new-found Saviour. Following her inclination for 
 writing, she used to record her feelings, temptations, 
 trials, and deliverances. One day she was summoned 
 to the presence of her father and mother. The 
 former, holding in his hand a manuscript, asked, 
 " What is this, Mary ? " " It is my journal," was the 
 candid reply. After a severe reprimand for her dis- 
 obedience in giving her mind to such things, she was 
 reluctantly compelled to read it aloud, after which, 
 her father committed it to the flames ! Thus, the 
 
1 6 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 record of her early experiences was lost. So great 
 was her desire to attend the means of grace, and to 
 be allowed to follow the dictates of her conscience, 
 that she proposed to her parents to take the place of 
 a servant, do the kitchen work, washing, etc., if they 
 in return would allow her to attend meetings. They 
 yielded to her solicitations, thinking she would soon 
 tire of such uncongenial and laborious employment, 
 for the family was large.* Unflinchingly for several 
 months she performed her allotted tasks, till nature 
 rebelled, and she sunk down in sickness. Her par- 
 ents soon after removed to Germantown, near Phila- 
 delphia, where they had a large garden. 
 
 Mary's health improving, she was allowed to open 
 a school in a small building in the midst of the gar- 
 den, which she called her " study." Here she found 
 the retirement she so greatly desired ; here, too, she 
 often held sweet converse with her little flock, striving 
 to lead them to the Saviour. During the times of her 
 severe trials, her good uncle John had striven to 
 strengthen her faith by every means in his power, 
 though forbidden to visit her. A file of letters, care- 
 fully preserved, show the high estimation in which she 
 held his godly counsels. A few extracts from these 
 will be interesting. 
 
 '•'•February 23, 1810. 
 
 " My Dear Mary : If God, by his particular provi- 
 dence, saved you from death when nine years of age, 
 for what purpose ? Was it to bring you to your pres- 
 
 * Truly this was the Christian heroism that in olden time would 
 have carried her to the stake. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 17 
 
 ent state of embarrassment ? to fit you for usefulness 
 to your fellow creatures, and then cut you off? No, 
 my child. Live, therefore ; your work is before you. 
 % Your present sufferings will also add to your experi- 
 ence, than which there is no part of discipline so useful 
 for future services. But a question may arise, " If I 
 am designed for future usefulness, why such an apparent 
 approach to death ? " Answer. May not we frustrate 
 the designs of Providence by not taking all the com- 
 fort he affords, and which tends to the health of the 
 body, and the soul also*? Use the sword of the Spirit, 
 which is the word of God. ' Rejoice not against me, 
 
 mine enemy : when I fall, I shall arise ; when I sit 
 in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me/ and 
 they that are mine enemies shall see it, and shame 
 shall cover them that say, Where is thy God ? Be 
 patient, my child, and all will be well. 
 
 " Yours, affectionately, ' J. Morgan." 
 
 "Februaiy, 1810. 
 
 " My Dear Mary : Your letter of this day gives 
 me much satisfaction. I find in it that easy flow 
 which the superficial cannot ape. The only sentence 
 
 1 find fault with is, in that relating to your health. 
 My expectations still hold good that you shall yet 
 praise Him in the land of the living. I feel much 
 comfort in praying for you. J. Morgan." 
 
 " March, 1810. 
 
 " My Dear Mary : I am sorry to be obliged to 
 avail myself of the ' privilege you allow of adopting 
 
1 8 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. , 
 
 Mr. Wesley's laconic style at this time, as your last 
 contained so much valuable matter, it merits a co- 
 pious reply. My hurry is great, therefore all you are 
 to expect now is one question, and one article of ad- 
 vice, namely : Have you received the grace of God 
 by the works of the law, or by faith ? By faith, your 
 heart will reply. Then, as ye have received the Lord 
 Jesus Christ, so walk in Him. 
 
 " Your affectionate, Jno. Morgan." 
 
 " My Dear Mary : I just snatch a few moments 
 to tell you of my great satisfaction in the perusal of 
 your valuable letter ; certainly flesh and blood hath 
 not taught you thus. What a wonderful mode of in 
 struction the Lord Jesus hath. You mistake, how- 
 ever, in supposing that the Lord hides his face ca- 
 priciously from his children. Nothing but unbelief 
 effects this. Hold fast your confidence, therefore, 
 which hath sweet recompense of reward. Heaviness, 
 through manifold temptations, you must expect, but 
 how are we to act under those circumstances ? Why, 
 to lie passive in the hands of (not the tempter,) but 
 your heavenly Father, who has promised not to 
 suffer you to be tempted above what you are able 
 to bear, and that with every temptation He will make 
 a way for your escape. 
 
 " You see, you feel, my child, how able and willing 
 the Lord is to deliver you. Nothing is clearer to my 
 mind than that your late affliction, which will be but 
 for a moment, will assuredly work out for you a far 
 more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Hold 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 19 
 
 out then, my dear. Keep faith and a good conscience, 
 and nothing shall harm you. You have the immuta- 
 ble Jehovah, mind this, rest here. 
 
 " The Lord bless you ! J. Morgan." 
 
 A few sheets of a journal kept by Mary while teach- 
 ing her little school will afford additional insight into 
 her exercise of mind under sore temptations and trials : 
 
 " I awoke with a distressed mind, occasioned by 
 backslidings the night before. Why is it, when I 
 know so well my weakness and depravity, I cannot 
 depend upon the promises of Christ ? It is the work- 
 ing of the unpardonable sin, unbelief, that will not let 
 me search for rest. I cannot trust in God ; my soul 
 is not yet resigned ; it wanders from him among 
 the vanities of life, and sucks a poisoning distress 
 from thence. Though it is overcome with weakness 
 and oppression, yet will it not seek rest in Christ. 
 O nature ! nature ! whither wilt thou lead me ! 
 Am I to be more tormented ? Save me, Lord, or I 
 perish ! 
 
 " Wednesday has been a day of trial and tribulation. 
 My soul within me is weak, and low temptations arise. 
 My faith is almost dead. I appear as though deprived 
 of grace. I endeavor to pray, but surely my prayers 
 are not fervent, or my soul would find rest. But there 
 is one thing I lack ; my soul still leans on earth, my 
 affections are bound there and cannot reach'to heaven. 
 The chains of sin have fastened me to life, their rust 
 has deeply stained my soul, so that I fear it will be 
 long ere it can wear the garments washed white in 
 
20 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 Jesus's blood. God is merciful, therefore will I con- 
 tinue to pray ; if I desire, God will lend the power ; 
 in him, then, will I trust. My God, cleanse my soul, 
 enter it and make thy abode there. 
 
 " Thursday. A new discovery of the mercy of God 
 toward me, and yet I fear that I am not sufficiently 
 thankful. I prayed before breakfast, and find my 
 mind rejoicing in the goodness of my Creator. 
 At the commencement of my teaching I prayed 
 with my little flock, and claimed the assistance of 
 Heaven to lead them to Christ, and am much at 
 ease. * 
 
 " I have walked in the garden, spoken to my father, 
 and feel my soul again cast down. I ran to my ' study ' 
 and prayed for ease ; again received it. I have over- 
 come many strong temptations. I return thanks unto 
 thee, Lord, for thy assisting grace. 
 
 " I know that I am in great danger. I view an un- 
 fathomable abyss, on whose brink I am foolishly play- 
 ing, and yet I even dread that in retiring I may 
 stumble and fall in. Lord, drag me from it. Make 
 my footing sure and I will follow. 
 
 " Tis done ! I view the pit no more. Brightness 
 reigns in my heart. The heavens around me are con- 
 vulsed. The thunder and lightning and rain are 
 shocking, yet the sun of grace diffuses its radiance 
 through my soul, and I am all illumined within. 
 
 " Friday m . I awoke in good spirits ; my soul is com- 
 forted by grace. May the whole day be joyous ! I 
 have prayed with the spirit of the Holy Ghost moving 
 my soul. I trust the day may be blessed as the morn- 
 
Life cf Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 21 
 
 ing. I have led my flock to the living waters by 
 prayer, but I could not make them drink. Lord, 
 make their souls thirst after righteousness, until 
 
 Insatiate to the spring they fly, 
 
 And drink, and drink, and still be dry. 
 
 " Sunday. I dread much my time has not been spent 
 to the glory of God. I awoke rejoicing in the pros- 
 pect of spending a glorious Sabbath. An unforeseen 
 circumstance prevented me from attending church, 
 therefore I prepared for spending the day in reading 
 the sacred writings. ... I regret spending part of the 
 afternoon in trifling. The evening I spent at meet- 
 ing, where the word of God appeared to find entrance 
 to my soul, and, I trust, is seed sown in ^od ground. 
 Before I went to bed I prayed with fervency, I trust, 
 for my soul rejoiced. 
 
 ..." Rose late, depressed in spirit ; could find no . 
 opportunity to pray, and felt my soul exceedingly cast 
 down, because of a small trial that awaited me before 
 breakfast. What a weak soul is mine, "when thus a 
 word, a look, may make it sad ! Lord, strengthen it 
 in grace 4 and make its illumination permanent there- 
 from ! Opened my little school with prayer, which 
 bore the weight off my heart considerably. My 
 prospects brightened. I was pleased to see it was 
 in my power to do good, and determined to exert it. 
 I expounded the first chapter of Mark to my little 
 ones : all understood, and some appeared gladdened 
 on account of their understanding it." Thus is un- 
 folded the workings of a young soul in its struggles 
 after God. 
 
22 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 It will be seen that, excepting the kind counsels 
 of her uncle John, she was almost without religious 
 companionship. Under the most favorable surround- 
 ings the conflict of a soul pressing along the " way 
 of holiness," with its three great enemies, the world, 
 the flesh, and the devil, is severe enough to dis- 
 courage the weak and intimidate the strong ; but the 
 way is more lonely and dark, the struggle sharper 
 and the burden heavier, when parental favor is with- 
 drawn, and persecution replaces affection. But Mary 
 Morgan could well afford to dispense with human 
 sympathy when assured by the Mighty One, " I will 
 never leave thee nor forsake thee." These conflicts 
 served bu^to qualify, her for that glorious career 
 which she was about to begin. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 23 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 DEPARTURE FROM HOME. 
 
 Departure from Home — Arrival in New York, 1810 — Teaching in 
 Friends' School — Joins Old John-street Church — Success as a 
 Teacher — 111 Health — Reminiscences by an Aged Friend — Extracts 
 from Journal. 
 
 While Mary was the subject of severe trials and 
 afflictions " from foes without and fears within," being 
 in great conflict of spirit between allegiance to her 
 natural guardians, and impressions of duty to her 
 heavenly Father, an all-wise Providence seeing the 
 end from the beginning was preparing a work, though 
 unknown to her, suited to her energies and capacity. 
 The Society of Friends in the city of New York being 
 led to take great interest in the education of the young 
 in free schools, under their auspices a male school was 
 formed on the " Lancasterian" plan. This succeeding 
 well, in the spring of 1810 they determined to open 
 another for girls. In looking for a teacher, a promi- 
 nent Friend wrote to Philadelphia to one of the trust- 
 ees of the " Academy" from which Mary graduated. 
 The result was, that Mary Morgan was warmly recom- 
 mended as being well qualified to fill the position. 
 Her health being improved, she consented to go, 
 trusting in her Saviour, who had succored her in the 
 hour of strong trial and temptation. The leaves of 
 her journal during this period are missing, but a 
 
24 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 record made eleven years after seems appropriate 
 here. 
 
 " Sabbath, April ist, 1821. This day, eleven years 
 ago, weak in body, but strong in faith, I left my fa- 
 ther's house to come to this city, (then to me a land of 
 strangers.) At the call of the Lord, like Abram of old, 
 depending only on the arm of Jehovah, and trusting 
 his promises, I loosened my hold of every earthly 
 stay, and cast myself wholly on the protection of God. 
 It was indifferent to me where I labored, if it was in 
 my heavenly Master's vineyard ; or how I was em- 
 ployed, if it was in his service ; or how I was re- 
 warded, if I enjoyed but the smile of his approving 
 countenance. Happy simplicity of first love ! con- 
 tent to wear the meanest apparel, and endure the 
 roughest fare, I lived by faith and not by sight. 
 
 " ' Little and unknown, 
 
 Loved and prized by God alone.' " 
 
 Mary's trust in the Saviour was not misplaced, for 
 he opened her way before her, guided her judgment, 
 and prospered the work of her hands. On her arrival 
 in New York she was kindly received into the family 
 of the good John Murray, who, with his excellent wife, 
 ministered to her in her feebleness, and assisted her 
 in commencing the school. In after life she often re- 
 ferred to those who, when " she was a stranger, took 
 her in," and who, in obedience to the divine command, 
 strengthened her fainting spirits. The school was 
 held in one of the buildings known as <( Tryon Row," 
 directly in the rear of the present " Hall of Records." 
 Jn those days this was the central part of the city. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 25 
 
 many of the pupils coming from Chatham, Pearl, 
 William, Beekman, Rose, Cliff, Frankfort, and the ad- 
 jacent streets, which were then occupied by dwellings. 
 Under the faithful labors of the teacher, and the care- 
 ful supervision of the " Female Association," who did 
 all in their power to encourage the young instructress, 
 the school flourished, and became a power for great 
 good. To the order, neatness, and systematic thor- 
 oughness inculcated by the Friends, much of Miss 
 Morgan's success as a teacher in after-life was attrib- 
 utable under God. To this fact she often referred 
 with gratitude. Having conscientiously laid aside 
 gay apparel soon after her conversion in Philadelphia, 
 it became easy for her to adopt the garb of the 
 Friends, which brought her still more in favor with 
 the " Association," and among them was formed 
 friendships which were lasting as life. Soon after 
 her arrival in the city, Miss Morgan joined the " old 
 John-street Methodist Episcopal Church," then under 
 the charge of the excellent Truman Bishop. In this 
 cradle of Methodism she received that encouragement 
 and instruction from holy men and women of experi- 
 ence* so needful to one who had enjoyed but few such 
 privileges. In August of this year, 18 10, appears the 
 following in her diary : 
 
 " Spent some part of my time in reading ' Plimp- 
 ton's History of the Bible,' and in the portraiture of 
 David's character was particularly struck with the 
 manner in which God supports, comforts, and pro- 
 tects those who love and fear him. During this day, 
 though as constant as usual in prayer, I did not feel 
 
26 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 fervent, for which reason I felt an uncommon deadness 
 under the preaching of the word. Spent too great a 
 part of the day in vain company and conversation. 
 How erroneous, then, is the idea that it is unnecessary 
 for a Christian to avoid vain company, for he may 
 avoid evil in any society by keeping his faith stead- 
 fast and his eye single to the glory of God. On these 
 principles the ball-room would be as profitable as the 
 select society of brethren in Christ. God, forbid that 
 Satan should ever draw any of thy children by such 
 a false snare from the doctrines of thy holy revela- 
 tion, which teaches us to shun evil and seek good. 
 
 " Aug. 20. After a very restless night God per- 
 mitted me to open my eyes on another rising sun. 
 Alas ! why is not my heart more open to the Sun of 
 Righteousness, which diffuses such ineffable glory 
 around me ? Why, O Lord, when I look around, 
 and see thee in all thy works, do I not find thee 
 more eminently in my heart ? I feel yet a blank in 
 my soul that must be filled with the fullness of God. 
 O that the blessed Lord would come and possess me 
 whole, leaving no void, but all my soul be perfect 
 love ! Every day increases my condemnation, since 
 . every day increases my obligations to God. I con- 
 sider every day not improved to the glory of God a 
 day of condemnation. O my dear Lord, grant that 
 every succeeding day may bring me nearer to thee, 
 until at last I shall be swallowed up of life in Christ ! 
 
 "Aug. 22. In much pain I arose this morning, but 
 conscious of God's mercy that he had not cut me 
 down in sin, but has lent me his gracious promises 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 27 
 
 to rest upon, lest I should faint under the evils of 
 life. I feel a small hope, by which my soul is often 
 soothed to sweet peace. I know of a surety that my 
 Redeemer lives, that he is willing to save me, the 
 vilest of sinners. I know also that he has pardoned 
 my sins, and has permitted me to love him. I often 
 feel my soul melted by love, yet I long to love him 
 more, to love him only, and those whom he loves. I 
 want to be entirely weaned from earthly desires, and 
 to know nothing but Christ Jesus and him crucified. 
 In short, I want to become holy and pure as mortal 
 can be, and God would have me to be — wholly con- 
 secrated to him. I know this is my privilege, and 
 the privilege of all whom God has created and Christ 
 redeemed. I am fully determined not to rest short 
 of it. Lord, assist me to attain it ! Amen and Amen." 
 Thus was the Lord preparing his handmaid for her 
 life-work, through varied experiences of soul and 
 body, that she might be fitted for the Master's use. 
 
 Miss Morgan's kind friends of the " Association " 
 seeing her feebleness, insisted on her taking a rest of 
 a few weeks in the country. A suitable place was 
 found for her at the house of Mr. Jesse Ryder, at 
 Mount Pleasant, (now Sing Sing,) on the Hudson. 
 In striking contrast to the present mode of convey- 
 ance is Miss Morgan's description of this journey of 
 thirty miles in a sloop. 
 
 " Wednesday, Aug. 23. I sailed at ten o'clock this 
 morning for Mount Pleasant. The morning appeared 
 favorable when we sailed, but we had not lost sight 
 of New York when the wind changed, and heavy rain 
 
28 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 descended, with lightning and thunder. A sloop 
 that sailed about an hour before us had her mainsail 
 torn to pieces, and lay in a distressed condition on 
 the west side, when we hailed her, and took her pas- 
 sengers on board ours. We were on the water - all 
 night. It lightened and thundered much, with very- 
 heavy rain. In this storm I felt the presence of God 
 awfully near, and was greatly surprised to see many 
 around me sporting and trifling, though the awful 
 voice of God spoke solemnly to their ears in the tre- 
 mendou? thunder. O Lord, how thankful thy chil- 
 dren should be who have come to the knowledge of 
 thee and their dangerous standing in this world ! 
 
 "Aug. 24. I left the boat early this morning in 
 order to seek for a conveyance to the house where I 
 intended to put up. On going into a small farm- 
 house belonging to a family of Friends, I was sur- 
 prised at the hospitable manner in which the woman 
 of the house treated me. After insisting on her re- 
 ceiving money for breakfast, which she civilly pre- 
 pared for me, she refused it, and I secretly slipped it 
 into the child's hand, seeing that they could not 
 easily afford to bestow it. Having procured a wagon, 
 I arrived about ten o'clock at a neat farm-house, 
 owned also by Friends, where I was decently accom- 
 modated with board. The people of the house civil, 
 and the surrounding country very agreeable. So 
 kind is God to one of the most unworthy of his crea- 
 tures. I feel much openness in prayer to God to-day, 
 and a sweet hope that I shall yet praise him with a 
 perfect heart." 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 29 
 
 In this quiet, rural retreat, surrounded by charm- 
 ing scenery, and in the bosom of a kind and affec- 
 tionate family, were passed several weeks. Nor did 
 they pass idly, but while recruiting her health Miss 
 Morgan found opportunities " to do good and com- 
 municate." Some account of the scenes and impres- 
 sions of those hours have been furnished by Mrs. 
 Mary Carpenter, daughter of Mr. Jesse Ryder, at the 
 time of Miss M.'s first visit a timid little girl ten 
 years of age : 
 
 " I have a vivid recollection of her arrival at my 
 fathers house near Sing Sing. Her countenance, 
 when once looked upon, made an impression that 
 could not easily be effaced. Although I was a little 
 girl, I remember the placid smile with which she 
 greeted us. It was a smile which at once inspired 
 love and confidence. How delighted was I to be- 
 come the companion of her rambles, how attentively 
 I listened to the words of wisdom that fell from her 
 lips. A blade of grass, the tiny wild flower, the 
 murmuring brook, the majestic tree that bends its 
 branches to the wind, 
 
 ' The spacious firmament on high, 
 
 And all the blue ethereal sky, 
 
 And spangled heavens, a shining frame :' 
 
 from all these outward emblems she drew inspira- 
 tion, and descanted on the power and goodness of 
 God : so that we felt, with Milton, 
 
 ' These are thy glorious works, Parent of good ! 
 Almighty, thine this universal frame, 
 Thus wondrous fair ; thyself, how wondrous then ! 
 Unspeakable, who sitt'st above these heavens 
 
30 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 To us invisible, or dimly seen 
 
 In these thy lower works ; yet these declare 
 
 Thy goodness beyond thought, and power divine.' 
 
 " Such was the tenor of her conversation, always 
 extolling the great Author of her being, and raising 
 the minds of those with whom she mingled up to her 
 own standard. 
 
 " On the occasion of a meeting at Sing Sing, ap- 
 pointed by Micajah Collins, Miss Morgan attended 
 with my father and his family. She sat near the 
 minister, and the gravity of her countenance attracted 
 his attention. He solicited an introduction, and then 
 asked her to accompany himself and friends on a 
 religious visit. Her reply was, ' I am the guest of 
 Jesse Ryder, and with his permission I will do so.' 
 They visited North Salem, Amewalk, Croton, and 
 Peekskill, James Underhill, a member of Chappa- 
 qua meeting, taking them in his carriage. The pleas- 
 ure and satisfaction which this journey gave Miss 
 Morgan were often recalled by her even during the 
 last days of her life. 
 
 " For several successive seasons she visited us, al- 
 ways bringing sunshine and gladness. In 1814, on 
 leaving, she gave me several sheets of paper, desiring 
 me to write to her, but my childish fears predomi- 
 nated ; thinking that I might make mistakes, I 
 deferred it, and not many weeks after received the 
 following communication from her : 
 
 "'New York, October, 18 14. 
 
 " ' I am afraid my dear Mary will let her paper be 
 worm-eaten before she uses any of it in writing to 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 31 
 
 me. However, this proves I am not disposed to retort 
 upon her. I will now give thee some account of my 
 excursion. First, after leaving Mount Pleasant, I went 
 to Flushing Bay, where I spent a happy week with 
 Sarah Collins, and my dear pupil, Charlotte Gardiner. 
 
 " ' Charlotte is about fifteen years of age, and has 
 thirty-two Friends' children under her care, some of 
 them older than herself. I then went to see my dear 
 Mary M'Manus, at Flushing ; was next found in Phila- 
 delphia, much to the joy of my dear parents, who 
 were afraid I was going to spend my summer with 
 you ; after stopping a few days with them, my 
 dear father journeyed with me toward Schooley's 
 Mountain. On our way we passed through several 
 very pretty towns, as Lancaster, Germantown r . 
 Easton ; but the most remarkable was Bethlehem, 
 of which I will give thee a description. It is owned 
 by the Moravian Society in Germany, and they hire 
 people to live in the houses, and carry on the various 
 arts and manufactories. In the middle of the place 
 they have a meeting-house, school-house, and house 
 for the sisters ; they are very profitable ; there is a 
 person appointed in the town to wait on strangers ; 
 this person first showed us the grave-yard. 
 
 " * The graves are disposed in rows, and every per- 
 son who dies is buried next the last one, and lying on 
 each grave is a small white marble slab, having on it 
 the name and age of the deceased. We were next 
 shown the school, which is taught on the Lancasterian 
 plan ; there are six rooms, a class in each room, and 
 a teacher over each class. Next we were shown the 
 
Lift of Mri. Mary W. 
 
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 s 
 
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 SOO high 
 
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 - - 3 
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 5 
 
 : .rab. 
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 "Alt - <uch an earnest work- 
 
 retained all her love for 
 simple, child-'. \k sasures and an unaffected sym- 
 pathy with the fresh - ei : e friends. 
 When she - - w .er letter -.ten 
 : . when she as - ere were none 
 who more - s who con- 
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 mer days S hours she 
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Life of Mrs. Mary \V. Mason. 
 
 wili wholly lost in the will of God. I even found the 
 prospect of trials urge me to more fervor in private 
 prayer, and thanf God, I found it good to wait upon 
 him in secret. I think, from deep self-examination 
 this day, that I grow in grace, and that I daily gather 
 strength in the work of God, This I am sure o£ that 
 I have more pea«e. and peace is the fruit of faith, and 
 'iaith is the condition on which we are promised sal- 
 vation ; and if I have peace, also faith ; and if faith, a 
 hope of salvation : here is my cause of rejoicing. 
 : x I awoke this morning under severe bod£; 
 friction. Though so indisposed that I could not pray 
 aloud, I never remember to have felt such a strong 
 spirit of prayer while I appeared to feel the necessi- 
 ties of my fellow-creatures, and felt as though I could 
 bear all in the arms of iaith to a throne of grace. 
 
 .: willing to say, Good is the will of the Lord, 
 whether he gj^es ease or pain. I feel a conscious- 
 ness that the Lord will not call me hence until he 
 has perfected his work in righteousness. Reading 
 the sentiments of Eliza Bennis on the same subject 
 strengthened my confidence. 
 
 1 5 I bless God that I still feel his presence near 
 me, and have a consciousness that wherever I am he 
 is there. I often feel my mind in converse with him, 
 as though with a visible friend. 
 
 ■ Often the retrospect of my life draws me into 
 great heaviness, considering how vast have been my 
 privileges, and to what little purpose I have used 
 them. Why was I sent to a stranger in a foreign 
 place, exposed to suspicion, ft knowing why 
 
36 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 I left father and mother and fled into a place where 
 I knew none, nor was known of any ? But why la- 
 ment ? The Lord's arm is about me, and he is a 
 steady, unchangeable friend." 
 
 Thus was passed the first year of Miss Morgan's 
 exile from home. During this time she pursued the 
 even tenor of her way, " growing irf favor with God 
 and man." Diligent and faithful in the duties of her 
 school even beyond her strength, she won the confi- 
 dence and regard of her employers, and the warm 
 affection of her pupils. Her faithfulness to the spir- 
 itual interests of those under her charge induced her 
 to establish a Sunday morning Bible class in her day 
 school room. Many would have made the arduous 
 duties of the week an excuse for relaxation on the 
 Sabbath, but Miss Morgan's zeal was self-sacrificing. 
 Alone with her scholars, she opened to them the 
 word of God, explaining and pointedly^nforcing its 
 truths. This, it must be remembered, was before 
 the days of Sunday-schools, and was the outgrowth 
 of a soul anxious for the salvation of those around 
 her. Reference to the profitableness of these Sun- 
 day interviews is often made in Miss Morgan's 
 journal. 
 
 The close of the year, proved the Association 
 school a success, and it so increased in numbers 
 and interest as to require assistance. " I wish we 
 could find another Mary Morgan," said one of the 
 committee, addressing Miss Morgan. " I can find 
 one for you," was the quiet reply ; " my cousin, Mary 
 Morgan, of Philadelphia." " Send for her imme- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 37 
 
 diately." Thus Providence opened the way to fill 
 the longing after one of her own kindred. Mary I. 
 Morgan was two years the junior of Mary W., and 
 while possessing many of the same traits of charac- 
 ter, she was favored beyond her cousin in having had 
 a godly father to guide her youthful footsteps. 
 
 On her arrival in New York she entered diligently 
 ' into the work of the school, and soon became a valu- 
 able assistant. Mary W. showed her characteristic 
 energy by instructing her cousin evenings in those 
 branches in which she was deficient, in order that 
 she might be the bejtter prepared for greater useful- 
 ness in the school. Together now, with marked suc- 
 cess, did these young disciples pursue their daily toil, 
 laying broad and deep the foundation for eminent 
 success as teachers, winning alike the confidence and 
 affection of their pupils. The numbers and interest 
 of the school continuing to increase, in the course of 
 the year it was determined to open another in Henry- 
 street, over which Miss Mary I. Morgan was placed 
 as principal, the school being supervised by Mary W. 
 Thus in busy activity, both in the schools and the 
 Church, passed another year. The year 1 8 1 2 brought 
 war, and in its train distress and consternation. 
 Miss Morgan visited the abodes of poverty, witness- 
 ing the vice and want of the times. Nor was this 
 distress of short duration ; and to devise some means 
 to alleviate it occupied much of her thoughts. In 
 much weakness of body, but with persevering en- 
 ergy, were pursued the manifold duties that now 
 pressed upon her. The pages of her journal show 
 
38 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 her depth of religious experience, her conflicts and 
 conquests. 
 
 During the year 1812, in the good providence of 
 God, her uncle, John Morgan, came with his family 
 to New York to reside. Thus was provided a home 
 for the two Marys, and the advantage of the expe- 
 rience and sympathy of a wise Christian counselor. 
 In the family circle Mary W. took the position of 
 an elder sister, assisting in the care and instruction 
 of the younger .members. The daughters were in- 
 structed in her school, and under her training be- 
 came useful and thorough teachers, to which many 
 now living in this city and elsewhere can testify. 
 Besides Mary I., already alluded to, afterward Mrs. 
 Wheeler, there were Susan, afterward Mrs. Holden ; 
 Isabella, afterward Mrs. Stebbins ; and Anne, after- 
 ward Mrs. Howe. Two brothers in this family were, 
 equally with the sisters, the objects of her solicitude, 
 and received the benefit of her example and instruc- 
 tion. One, Mr. William Morgan, long identified with 
 Methodism in New York city and Brooklyn ; and the 
 other, Rev. John Morgan, Congregational minister, 
 and Professor of Theology in Oberlin College, Ohio. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 39 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 FEMALE ASSISTANCE SOCIETY. 
 
 Journal 1813 — Deep Religious Exercises — Visits among the Poor — 
 City Prison, etc. — Formation of Female Assistance Society — 
 Success of Schools — Journal, 18 14. 
 
 "January i, 1813. Awoke r%the morning rather 
 heavy, and cold in my devotions. Grew rather more 
 zealous in my morning exercises with my little girls ; 
 during the day found myself assisted by a heavenly 
 Power to perform my several duties ; mixed in com- 
 pany in the afternoon, where I derived but little 
 comfort or profit, perhaps, because God was not 
 made the prevailing subject of thought and conver- 
 sation. 
 
 " In the evening attended preaching, where my 
 spirit was lifeless and cold on account of bodily 
 pain, though the preacher was zealous, and to others 
 particularly blessed. So closely united are the mind 
 and body, that when one is disordered the other 
 generally sympathizes. 
 
 " Sabbath, yanuary 3, 181 3. Attended preaching 
 in the morning, where my soul was particularly 
 refreshed, and, contrary to my former resolution, 
 remained to commemorate the death and sufferings 
 of my blessed Saviour ; and never do I remember to 
 have experienced a greater blessing than I did at 
 this time. 
 
40 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " Spent the remaining portion of the evening in a 
 religious company, where I experienced much com- 
 fort ; was called upon to pray aloud, and found some 
 communion with my heavenly Father. 
 
 "Thus have I spent one more Sabbath in some 
 degree, I hope, to the glory of God, and his be the 
 eternal praise. 
 
 "Friday, July 8, 1813. Took leave of Elizabeth 
 Coggshell, who was leaving New York, in company 
 with Susanna Horn, to preach the Gospel in Europe. 
 After a silent waiting for some minutes her soul 
 seemed to be drawn out toward me, and she said, 
 ' Mary, when I was at thy school, two years ago, it 
 was sweetly brought to my mind that thou wert a 
 plant of my heavenly Father's right hand planting ; 
 that thou wert led through many trials and self- 
 denials ; and that thou hast a great work before thee, 
 a larger field than thou hast heretofore acted in, and 
 that thou wouldst be endowed with every ability and 
 supported by grace to go forward in it, if thou wouldst 
 only put thy trust in the Lord. And very frequently 
 since the same heavenly communication has been 
 sweetly renewed in my mind. I believe it to be my 
 duty to tell thee it, that thou mightest be encouraged 
 to go forward in the work whereunto thou art called.' 
 Our parting was very affecting." 
 
 These almost prophetic words of this pious and 
 intelligent Friend seemed indeed in after years to 
 receive their fulfillment, and were remembered and 
 referred to by those intimate with Mary W. Morgan. 
 So wonderful are the workings of the Holy Spirit 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Maso?i. 41- 
 
 upon the hearts of the children of men. Choosing 
 even the weak things of this life to honor his holy 
 name. 
 
 "Saturday, July 9, 18 13. Sailed for Staten Island 
 Quarterly Meeting with several Christians, among 
 whom were some preachers. My mind was much 
 affected by the ungodly conversation and behavior of 
 ' some wicked young persons on board. Felt desirous 
 of speaking to them, but shunned the cross, and 
 brought condemnation on myself by so doing. Felt 
 great freedom in prayer, and was supported under 
 several grievous trials from one of my nearest earthly 
 friends. Surely the appointment of the Lord is all 
 wisdom and mercy. 
 
 "Sabbath, July 10, 1813. This has been a day of 
 rejoicing to me and to many of the Lamb's disciples. 
 Met in love-feast, where the Lord dispensed the 
 bread of life, and water from the well of salva- 
 tion, to many hungry and thirsty souls, and' mine 
 among the rest. I more than tasted of heavenly 
 provision. 
 
 " I felt free to publicly acknowledge the work 
 God has accomplished in my soul ; that he has 
 brought me from nature's darkness to the marvelous 
 light of the Gospel ; that he has given me, through 
 Christ, triumph over sin and the grave. Vowed 
 publicly to be for God and none other, and solemnly 
 sealed the vow by partaking of the symbols of his 
 death and sufferings. May these witness against me 
 if I depart from the covenant I have so solemnly 
 entered into ! 
 
42 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " My heart was rilled with the fullness of love, and I 
 felt it no shame to glorify God aloud. O may I 
 continue to do it in my life and conversation ! Lord, 
 help ! 
 
 " Wednesday, ynly 13, 1813. Many temptations 
 and deep trials seemed strewed in my path this day, 
 and to be pointed against my most vulnerable part, 
 namely, my affections ; but thanks to the name of 
 my Lord, hitherto he hath helped me, and brought 
 me off more than conqueror. In class-meeting 
 melted under the refreshing showers of grace. Did 
 not at the time think there was any thing in the 
 world I held in competition with his love. O ! what 
 is sweeter than the love of God shed abroad in the 
 heart ! 
 
 "Sabbath, ynly 17, 18 13. This morning was over- 
 hung with heavy clouds to my soul ; one, for whom 
 I have the most tender affection, seems to be an in- 
 strument in the hand of my enemy to oppose every 
 inch of ground in my way to heaven. Met my school, 
 and had a satisfactory, though apparently not so 
 profitable, a time as usual. Enjoyed much comfort 
 under the preaching of the word all day, but particu- 
 larly in the evening, under Brother Marsden, from 
 Matthew xii, 31. He proved from Scripture and 
 eminent commentators that it is not in our power, in 
 these times, to commit the sin against the Holy Ghost ; 
 it being a perseverance by the Jews in denying the 
 various manifestations of the fulfillment of prophecy 
 in the miracles performed, that Jesus Christ was the 
 Messiah ; and finally filling up the measure of their 
 
_; 
 ris' and tfc 
 
 had 
 ] 
 appoint e - 
 
 A their TOfentai id buried 
 
 :hr~ 
 
 - : _ Alness 
 
 :n in such : _ - 
 
 s 
 
 l try ■ i the 
 
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 z»oth 
 I canr. rnd is 
 
 :- 
 God. C : I see the need of a ■ 
 
 d a conii- 
 
 3n to pe: He 
 
 : ; 
 I 
 
44 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " Wednesday, July 28, 18 13. Relieved considera- 
 bly from pain of body, and, thanks to Almighty love ! 
 still happy in my soul. Met in class, and felt strength- 
 ened in assurance of hope that my pilgrimage would 
 soon be at an end. Could look back with some 
 degree of comfort. Could, through grace, feel my 
 confidence strengthened from a retrospect of the lov- 
 ing-kindness of God. Through how many fiery trials 
 has he gently cleared my way ! How often has he 
 raised me from a bed of sickness, when, to all human 
 appearance, I must give up life ! How often, when 
 through my own unfaithfulness I have cast aside the 
 comforts of his Spirit, has he pardoned my remiss- 
 ness, and filled my soul with all comfort and joy in 
 believing ! How often, when I tremblingly spoke a 
 word for him to sinners, has he blessed it to their 
 awakening, and encouraged my soul by giving me to 
 rejoice in the fruits of my labor ! 
 
 " Sabbath, Aug. 1, 181 3. My mind was much weak- 
 ened by severe trials the night before. Bless the 
 Lord ! though the morning was gloomy, the day was 
 joyful. Beclouded in the morning, but at noon my 
 Sun arose with healing in His wings. Felt melted 
 under the word, and at the Lord's table eat abund- 
 antly of the children's bread. 
 
 " Spent the afternoon in company with some old 
 professors of religion, but, alas ! little of heaven was 
 in their conversation. I feel to take shame to my* 
 self that it is not my constant business and delight 
 to speak of God wherever I am. 
 
 "Wednesday, Aug. 4, 1813. 'Bless the Lord, O my 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 45 
 
 soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name,' 
 for this day's enjoyment. 
 
 " Overcast in the morning, relieved in private devo- 
 tion at noon, strengthened in class-meeting, instruct- 
 ed in religious company, and abundantly refreshed 
 in the women's prayer-meeting in the evening. O ! 
 bless the Lord for the means of grace and religious 
 privileges ! Christian perfection has long been the 
 subject of my thoughts, desires, and prayers. But, 
 by the instructions of a mother in Israel, I see I 
 have mistaken the state, and expected more in it 
 than it was possible for poor, frail, and unstable crea- 
 tures as we are to enjoy. I thought a sanctified soul 
 knew none of these dull, heavy feelings that are so 
 burdensome to me ; that their love knew no fall, 
 their sky was always clear, and their sun never 
 crossed by a cloud ; but I forgot that they also 
 had a warfare to accomplish, temptations and afflic- 
 tions to buffet them, and to bear about them con- 
 tinually a body in which were sown the seeds of 
 corruption. And, though they may have, through 
 grace, won the victory over their own hearts and 
 minds, yet, as long as they live in an enemy's land, 
 they must expect, with their divine Leader, to be 
 carried into the wilderness, tempted in all points, 
 and, if needs be, bear a weight of affliction. Is the 
 sen-ant above his master ? if our blessed Master's 
 soul was sorrowful, even unto death, can we expect 
 to go to heaven on 'flowery beds of ease?' Then, 
 O my soul ! learn what is the good and acceptable 
 will of the Lord concerning thee, and do it. Pray 
 
4.6 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 for a perfect submission to his will, a perfect confi- 
 dence in his power, perfect faith, and perfect love 
 which casteth out all fear that hath torment. And 
 however elated or depressed the animal spirits may 
 be, thou wilt still have Christ formed within, the hope 
 of glory. 
 
 "This is what I want and am on stretch for, the 
 power to pray without ceasing, and in every thing 
 give thanks. It is thy gift ; O Lord, give me faith 
 to receive it this moment, through Christ Jesus, who 
 hath purchased it for me by his own most precious 
 blood. Amen. 
 
 "Friday, Aug. 6, 1813. My sun seems beclouded. 
 O what a poor, unstable creature I am ! yesterday on 
 Pisgah's top, with the promised land full in view ; to- 
 day, in the valley of dry bones, depressed by a load 
 of temptations, with scarcely strength to cry, Lord, 
 succor my defenseless soul ! 
 
 "Sabbath, Aug. 8, 181 3. Felt cold and lifeless un- 
 der the preaching of the word till the evening, when 
 my soul was greatly refreshed under the preaching 
 of Brother Rice from " And now also the ax is laid 
 unto the root of the trees ; therefore every tree which 
 bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast 
 into the fire. 
 
 " Tuesday, Aug. 10, 181 3. Felt my mind much 
 exercised to attend a camp-meeting up the East 
 River. Prayed earnestly to the Lord, if it were his 
 will that I should go, to clear the way for me ; and 
 though, to all appearance, it was impracticable, and 
 my way seemed hedged up on every side, yet the 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 47 
 
 Lord, glory to his name ! did so clear my way, 
 and make every thing so easy for me to go, that I 
 could not doubf it was his good will and pleasure 
 that I should go into the wilderness and hear what 
 he would say to my soul there. 
 
 " On board the boat, going up, had my feelings 
 much hurt by some persons who cast reproaches on 
 -our society and manner of worship ; felt my heart so 
 full that I was not able to reply. The wicked part 
 of our company fell from reproaches to persecutions. 
 Some Africans, who were happy in the Lord, sung 
 his praises so long and loud that they tired the pa- 
 tience of some wicked men, (though apparently gen- 
 teel,) who came and desired the African preacher to 
 order his people to stop, and allow them the privilege 
 of singing songs the remainder of the afternoon. He 
 turned around and calmly replied, ' What, shall I be 
 silent while the devil roars ? God forbid-! No, chil- 
 dren, our tongues were made to praise God, and we 
 will use them so, and let the devil bark if he will.' 
 They who a few minutes before were ridiculing us 
 as an ignorant set, were now confounded by the im- 
 mediate and unstudied reply of a poor black man, 
 who, with his people, could shout aloud as he left the 
 boat, ' Israel's God is the strongest,' having got the 
 complete victory over the wicked one. Met with a 
 hearty welcome from my brethren and sisters in the 
 Lord on the camp-ground. Having taken neither bed 
 nor provisions with me, not knowing the order of a 
 camp-meeting, I told them I went up depending on 
 Providence. I, knowing I was among Methodists, was 
 
48 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 not afraid of wanting. I was soon provided with a 
 bed, and though I had never laid in a tent before, 
 thanks to God, I enjoyed a refreshing night's rest. 
 
 " Wednesday, Aug.ii f i%i$. Felt grievously tempted 
 in the morning to regret my coming to the meeting, 
 and to return the first opportunity. I felt as a 
 stranger dependent on the bounty of others, and 
 knew not where to make free enough to ask for my 
 breakfast ; and having almost compelled my cousin 
 to come with me, felt more on her account than my 
 own. A friend, observing our situation, requested us 
 to consider his tent our home. Thus, through the 
 kind mercy of God, we were provided for ; but still 
 my ungrateful heart scarcely acknowledged the mer- 
 cy, and I was filled with coldness, thoughtlessness, 
 and discontent, until late in the afternoon, when 
 Brother Crawford formed a circle opposite to the 
 tent in which we were and strongly exhorted be- 
 lievers to seek for a deeper work of grace, to look for 
 the sanctifying influences of the Holy Spirit. At 
 first my heart seemed almost impenetrably hard, and 
 the evidence of my justification so beclouded that I 
 could scarcely say I possessed any witness that my 
 sins had been pardoned through faith in the Lord 
 Jesus Christ. Three intimates of mine were ear- 
 nestly praying for sanctification, and the Lord gra- 
 ciously renewed my conviction for the blessing. I 
 felt a struggle in my heart to obtain the entire vic- 
 tory over the last remains of sin in my heart. I 
 never felt the weight of sinful nature bear so heavy 
 on me as at this time, and I groaned and cried aloud 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 49 
 
 for deliverance. I saw plainly what the Lord had 
 already done for my soul, and was so overwhelmed 
 with his mercy that I shouted aloud thanks to his 
 name. While I was thus praising God for what I 
 had already received, he imparted faith to believe on 
 him for the blessing I so much desired. In a mo- 
 ment, O glory ! everlasting glory to my blessed Sav- 
 iour ! my idols were taken away. I sought for the 
 load of sin that oppressed me, but it was gone, and 
 . my whole soul was sweetly lost in wonder, love, and 
 praise. To God be all the glory ! I am not worthy 
 to gather up the crumbs that fall from his table ; but, 
 thanks to unmerited grace ! I am fed with the chil- 
 dren's bread — manna from heaven. Halleluiah ! 
 
 " Thursday, Aug. 12, 1813. A steady peace all the 
 day, and at times a sweet melting under the word 
 preached, a clearer and more constant communion 
 with God, and more interest and love for my fellow- 
 creatures, particularly believers in Christ, for whom 
 I felt to struggle and plead with the Lord to deepen 
 his work of grace begun in their hearts ; and, bless 
 his holy name for it ! my prayers were answered for 
 one dear sister who professed to have experienced 
 the perfect love of God. O that I could always live 
 in this happy state ! I felt such freedom in exhort- 
 ing seeking souls, and pointing them to the atoning 
 blood of Jesus ; such liberty in prayer, and so much 
 peace and joy in believing, that the wilderness seemed 
 ' none other than the house of God, and the very gate 
 of heaven to my soul' I did not close my eyes in 
 sleep for two days and a night, and my body seemed 
 
SO Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 stronger than it had been for weeks before. I real- 
 ized that precious promise that ' they who wait upon 
 the Lord shall renew their strength.' 
 
 " Friday, Aug. 13, 1 813. Left the camp-ground to 
 return to the city with deep regret. It seemed as 
 though we were leaving the immediate presence and 
 communion of God to mix again with the world. 
 But, glory to his name ! he is omniscient, omnipres- 
 ent, and condescends to make himself known among 
 the busy concerns of life, as well as in the silent 
 grove. Met with my father waiting for me to go to 
 the country with him for m^health. My soul was 
 so much blessed that I almost forgot I had been sick 
 in body. Felt power to rejoice all the day long, and 
 tell all around what a dear Saviour I had found. 
 
 " Sabbath, Aug. 15, 181 3. Various and manifold 
 have been my temptations and exercises this day, 
 out of all which the Lord hath delivered me. Bless 
 his holy name for it. The devil seemed to go around 
 me like a roaring lion, seeking to destroy my peace 
 and confidence in the Lord ; and many times would 
 I have fallen by the hand of my adversary if I had 
 not fled to secret places and asked help of the 
 Mighty. 
 
 "Wednesday, Aug. 18, 1813. O how mutable, 
 transitory, and delusive are the fairest enjoyments in 
 nature ! but how immutable, eternal, and true is our 
 Alpha and Omega ; the first and the last ; the same 
 yesterday, to-day, and forever ! I have found him so, 
 to the joy of my soul, in all these various temptations 
 and trials. The Lord is truly a help in time of need, 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 5 1 
 
 and his grace is quite sufficient for our day, however 
 stormy. 
 
 "Wednesday, Sept. 8, 181 3. By the earnest request 
 of my father and other friends, tried the country air, 
 mineral springs, and all other probable means for the 
 recovery of my health, but all seemingly in vain. I 
 now believe that nothing but the Almighty arm can 
 . restore me to health, and into his hands I now most 
 willingly commend the keeping of my soul and body. 
 Willing to receive either life or death at his hands, 
 who knoweth what is best, and hath promised that 
 1 all things shall work together for good to them that 
 love God.' If not deceived, I feel altogether resigned 
 to his will, but, I fear, rather too anxious to depart. 
 ' I know that if this earthly house of my tabernacle 
 were dissolved,' that I ' have a house not made with 
 hands, eternal in the heavens/ whose foundei* and 
 builder is God. This is the mansion which the 
 blessed Redeemer went to prepare for those who 
 love him, and I (though the most unworthy and un- 
 faithful of his followers) feel faith to believe that his 
 loving-kindness hath prepared a mansion there for 
 me. 
 
 "Sabbath, Sept. 12, 18 13. Various have been the 
 feelings of my mind and body this day ; my body in 
 such distress and pain that tears burst involuntarily 
 from my eyes,. and my whole frame seemed to be in 
 an agony, while the internal spirit was joy, peace, and 
 sometimes ecstacy. The Lord, who is confined to no 
 particular place, met with my soul at home in my 
 closet, in prayer and reading his holy word. O that 
 
5- 
 
 my love tor the Scriptures mig 
 
 hero, alas ! I feel deficient I do not always taste that 
 
 sweetness in them that I know is the privilege of th 
 
 who study them more diligently. O that God would 
 improve • for his holy word, the most elegant 
 
 and pro::. can employ the thinking- 
 
 mind ! Thanks I ad the Holy Spirit for 
 
 me this mu< 
 
 ft 6. 1813, Attends 
 mourning, and found it to my soul far ' . n the 
 
 house of merriment. When the corpse v 
 moved from th< on the solemn 
 
 — on. my mind was drawn out in ve: nedi- 
 
 ns on the present s:. own soul and k 
 
 1 solemn probability struck me. that perhaps the 
 same mourners (wh< atances 
 
 mighrbe called nev ey the lifeless remains 
 
 my now infirm body to the silent ma 
 from whence there is no return, and where there can 
 be no improvement, no | ol for the 
 
 ms of light. Most solemn ai 
 that then my , it he inevitably and in- 
 
 E termined I was led to ask myself — How is it 
 with thee, my immortal soul ? are all th 5 thy 
 
 3 . sitions. th] Ejsires, th s, th tghts, 
 
 leavenly things ? are thy hopes, thy joys. 
 ears gi efe, thy strength, and thy every ha 
 iost thou view by the ey* 
 sure in heaven, and is thy heart th< 
 - } This is the work that must be wrought in I 
 
 j blood of thy 1- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 and Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath said, without ho- 
 liness no one can see his face in glory. I am over- 
 whelmed with the contemplation of the deep prepara- 
 tion of heart : to live in the enjoyment of 
 that holy city, in which the Lord God Almighty and 
 the Lamb are the temple, and which hath no need of 
 the sun nor of the moon to shine in it, for the glory 
 - of God doth enlighten it. and the Lamb is the light 
 thereof And there shall in no wise enter into it any 
 thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomi- 
 nation, nor maketh a he ; but they which are written 
 in the^ Lamb's book of life. Lord, can it be that I 
 shall one day be one of that happy number ! Surely 
 nothing but the blood of Jesus can cleanse and pre- 
 pare my heart for so much purity and bles^c: 
 To his exalted name be the everlasting glory of my 
 salvation ! 
 
 Sabbath, Sept. 19. 18 13. Bless the Lord, O my 
 soul, for the holy institution of the sabbath ! This has 
 been a sabbath of rest, and great peace, to my souL 
 
 "In the morning, under the explanation of the word 
 charity, my heart overflowed to God, who had shown 
 so much to a fallen and apostate race that were living 
 in open rebellion against him ; and yet, O amazing 
 love ! he took upon him our demeaned nature, suffered 
 the ignominy of a scorning world and a scoffing rabble, 
 bowed down to earth beneath the load of our iniquity, 
 and, to cleanse us from it, shed large drops of blood 
 from :ended pore of his agonized body, and 
 
 finally extended his arms on the cross, that he might 
 open the gates of heaven for our admission. 
 
54 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 " ' O for this love let rocks and hills 
 
 Their lasting silence break ; 
 And all harmonious human tongues, 
 
 Their Saviour's praises speak.' " 
 
 " Monday, Sept. 20, 18 13. I bless the Lord for the 
 precious opportunity he -granted me of conversing 
 with a dear sister whom the Lord has blessed with 
 an uncommon depth in Christian experience. I felt 
 myself as nothing in her company. I see so much 
 unfaithfulness in me, that I do sincerely think I am 
 the most unworthy, unfaithful creature that ever tasted 
 that He was gracious ; and yet I know I do not think 
 as meanly of myself as I ought. O for more humility 
 and humble love ! O Lord, rather increase this 
 blessir^, than give great joy to my soul ! 
 
 " Wednesday, Sept. 22, 18 13. This has been as one 
 of the days of the Son of man to my soul, and also to 
 many others in our Society. In private prayer the 
 Lord was pleased to give me a foretaste of what he 
 was going to pour out in our class-meeting. Truly 
 the Lord did seem to lead the class ; such another 
 precious meeting I never remember to have seen. 
 Many dear souls had a brighter evidence of their 
 sanctification, many more of justification ; and some 
 mourning to have their sins pardoned, and others to 
 obtain perfect love ; all seemed to have something to 
 pray for, and something to praise for. For my part, 
 my heart was so overwhelmed with the manifestations 
 of the love and power of God around me that I knew 
 not how to praise in language equal to my feelings ; 
 I longed to be in the woods, where I might freely 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 55 
 
 shout his praise aloud. Drank tea with a dear, tried, 
 but deeply experienced sister in Jesus. I took shame 
 to myself to see her so forward and faithful in the di- % 
 vine life while her troubles were so thick and power- 
 ful, and I, who knew none in comparison, had made 
 so little progress. I fear, the world think too highly 
 of me ; they do not know me ; indeed, it pains my 
 very heart to be so much caressed, and sometimes I 
 feel to cry out to the Lord to hide me in some secret 
 place, and there conceal me from every appearance of 
 applause, lest I be puffed up and forget the dust from 
 whence I spring. 
 
 " Thursday, Sept. 23, 1813. Felt my soul closely 
 united to God, and such a constant, sweet, and heav- 
 enly communion, that it seemed as though I could not 
 willingly attend to any thing but prayer and inward, 
 heartfelt praise. Felt self so abased in my sight, and 
 my blessed Redeemer so exalted, that I lay, as it were, 
 in dust and ashes, crying in my inmost soul, ' Holy, 
 holy, holy, is the Lord God of Sabaoth.' O that I 
 could always thus sit at the Master's feet, bathe them 
 with my tears, and wipe them with the hairs of my 
 head, as did my namesake of old ! and like her, catch 
 the words of eternal life as they drop from Im- 
 manuel's lips. In the evening drank tea with and 
 heard preach Paul, a black man and a Baptist. His lan- 
 guage was flowery and elegant, and his whole dis- 
 course perhaps might have had some large claims to 
 the merits of oratory, but my soul did not seem to 
 have tasted any portion of the heavenly bread through 
 his hands. Prejudice might have prevented, but I 
 
56 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 thought I prayed sincerely to have it removed. I 
 trust all were not as barren hearers. 
 
 "Saturday. Sept, 25, 181 3. Had my soul during 
 the whole day sweetly stayed upon the Lord. My 
 bodily afflictions were severe, so much so, at times, 
 that I could not bear up under them. But the Lord 
 was with me in all my afflictions, and Jesus, the di- 
 vine- physician, applied the balm of Gilead to my 
 oppressed and fainting soul, and greatly increased my 
 spiritual comforts, yea, much more abundantly than 
 all my bodily pains. Spent the afternoon with some 
 mothers in Israel and sisters in the Lord, who greatly 
 comforted my soul by a relation of their warfare and 
 conquests. I was much encouraged by them to con- 
 tinue faithful to the end and rely upon the Lord, who 
 is able to deliver the godly out of temptation. 
 
 " Was called in the evening to visit a dear woman 
 grievously afflicted with dropsy, and so poor as to 
 need the means of support, and yet she could rejoice 
 in hope of the glory of God. O what am I, that I 
 should be so much better provided for in this world ! 
 Why should I complain when I see such objects for 
 my pity f But the Lord did not forget a sore and 
 hungry Lazarus who prayed unto him. 
 
 "Sabbath, Sept. 26, 181 3. Met my school in the 
 morning, but could say little for my Master. Attended 
 at the public means of grace with constant prayer, 
 but O my heaviness, my lack of faith ! My pain of 
 body very severe, my domestic trials most grievous 
 to be borne, and the temptations of the enemy strong 
 and fiery, but, bless the Lord \ my confidence in him 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 57 
 
 was unshaken ; and though a cloud seemed to hang over 
 my mind, I could yet say with the Psalmist, " Why 
 art thou cast down, O my soul, and why art thou dis- 
 quieted within me ? hope thou in God, for I shall yet 
 praise him, who is the health of my countenance and 
 my God. 
 
 "Monday, Sept. 2J } 18 13. In the morning greatly 
 - oppressed with bodily affliction, and was obliged to 
 go to bed again, where I fell asleep, and had my soul 
 much encouraged in a dream. My domestic trials 
 were heavy, and weighed down my spirits much ; but 
 I could still call upon the Lord in mine affliction, and 
 though my soul was not immediately blessed, I could 
 yet confide in his mercy to deliver me out of tempta- 
 tion ; nor did I feel the smallest disposition for a 
 moment to seek aid or comfort from any earthly 
 source. Blessed be God, I know this much, that I 
 love him above every creature good ; nor would I 
 exchange my confidence in him for all the pleasures 
 or riches the wicked tempter could offer. O Lord, 
 be thou my rock of defense in these stormy times ! 
 
 "Friday, Oct. 1, 1813. After fasting in the wilder- 
 ness of temptations and trials for a short time, the 
 Lord hath again greatly refreshed my soul with man- 
 na, the bread that cometh down from heaven. O, 
 precious Saviour, evermore give me this bread ! 
 Truly, ' blessed are they who hunger and thirst after 
 righteousness, for they shall be filled.' 
 
 " My oppressed soul seemed to be set quite at liberty 
 while in prayer with a poor afflicted sister. The 
 tempter was subdued, my faith was revived, and my 
 
58 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 spiritual strength renewed, while my^bodily pain 
 increased. Blessed affliction, that drives me every 
 moment nearer to my eternal deliverance ! With all 
 my powers, I can willingly and gladly acknowledge 
 that the grace of God has been hitherto more than 
 sufficient A few days ago and all around was a 
 tempest that threatened to destroy me ; and now, 
 thanks to Him whom the winds and sea obey ! all 
 around is not only a calm, but a season of the sweetest 
 refreshment. 
 
 " Sabbath, Oct. 3, 1813. This has been a spiritual 
 feast-day to my soul. Early this morning the 
 Lord met me in private prayer, and we held such 
 sweet communion together for half an hour as I 
 wished never to have interrupted. Then did I re- 
 ceive the gracious promise that this should be the 
 most gracious Sabbath I had yet enjoyed. Itwas.so. 
 In all my duties, private and public, I met the Divine 
 Presence, and my soul was often so filled with the love 
 0/ God that I could not refrain from praising him 
 aloud. Had a precious little meeting in my school 
 in the morning, where I verily believe the Lord 
 touched the hearts of some of the dear children with 
 his convicting power. 
 
 " Under the preaching of the word by Brother Rice, 
 from 4 For it became Him, by whom are all things, 
 in bringing many sons unto glory,' etc., my soul was 
 encouraged anew to fight on, looking to the Captain 
 of my salvation, who hath vanquished every foe that 
 can now oppose me, and will lead me on to certain 
 victory. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 59 
 
 " Wednesday, Oct. 13, 1813. I do praise God for 
 all the means of grace, but none are so precious to 
 my soul as private prayer and class meeting. In class 
 I meet with experience like my own ; and when I am 
 ready to say, Surely none are so tempted and tried as» 
 I am, then perhaps a dear sister rises and tells of like 
 temptations and trials ; and I can only cry out, There 
 - hath no temptation befallen me but what is common 
 to all, and with the temptation the Lord has always 
 made a way for my escape. Greater is he that is for 
 us, than all that can be against us. Glory to his holy 
 name for ever ! " 
 
 By an entry in her journal we find the first men- 
 tion of any organized effort, for the relief of -poor 
 women. 
 
 " Tuesday, Nov. 8, 1813. This day the Lord has 
 graciously owned my lar>ors, with a couple more of 
 my sisters, in forming a little society for the religious 
 instruction and temporal relief of poor sick women. 
 We met each other in the street, and found that our 
 minds had been individually directed to the same 
 thing. Our utmost ambition was to get five or six 
 others to join us, and we proposed to each other to go 
 among our acquaintances and solicit subscribers, and 
 to-night we find that the Lord was with us, touching 
 the hearts of the people, so that we have had a hun- 
 dred to give in their names as subscribers, and six- 
 teen to volunteer as managers, and all this has been 
 brought about in a few days. Not unto us, not unto 
 us, but unto thee be all the glory, O Lord ! " 
 
 Thus was commenced that time-honored work of 
 
60 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 benevolence, (still in active operation,) " The Female 
 Assistance Society." A notice of some of the above 
 facts is found in one of the " Constitutions," preserved 
 on file by the subject of our memoir : " At a meeting 
 of a number of females, on Monday evening, Nov. 8, 
 1 813, for the purpose of forming an association for 
 the relief of the sick poor of their sex, it was agreed 
 that a society be formed, to be called the New York 
 Female Assistance Society," etc. Miss Morgan was 
 elected Secretary, an office which she filled for many 
 years, writing the annual reports, keeping the records, 
 etc. Associated with her were honorable women, 
 not a few, both from her own and other denomina- 
 tions. 
 
 HONORABLE WOMEN. 
 
 Among these might be mentioned Mrs. Strong, 
 (afterward a member of Duane-street Church, who 
 for many years was .first Directress of the Assistance 
 Society. This excellent lady lived to an advanced age, 
 loved and honored by her family and friends.) Another 
 . was Mrs. Israel Disosway, whose sons have long 
 been identified with Methodism in New York. She 
 was the Treasurer of the Society. She taught her 
 sons to assist her in keeping the accounts, and some, 
 times one of them accompanied her to the meetings, 
 carrying her books. She also encouraged them in 
 the practice of music, both instrumental and vocal. 
 On Sabbath she might be seen wending her way to 
 John-street, a son hold of each of her hands, and two 
 others, hand in hand walking in front of her. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 6 1 
 
 The above facts were given by an aged friend still 
 living, who was then a member of Mrs. Disosway's 
 family. Miss Morgan also knew and greatly revered 
 Mrs. Isabella Graham, the grandmother of Dr. G. W. 
 Bethune. This noble lady was ready for every good 
 word and work ; and while visiting and giving to the" 
 poor, was active in distributing the Scriptures even 
 before the days of the Bible Society. 
 
 Another was Mrs. Francis Hall, whose name, 
 associated with that of her honored husband, holds a 
 high place in the earlier records of John-street. With 
 her Miss Morgan enjoyed an intimate friendship, 
 unbroken through a long series of years. 
 
 Still another was Mrs. Pamela Lamplin, mother of 
 Archibald and Susan, long identified with the active 
 enterprises of the Church. In the interests of the 
 Assistance Society visits were made to the poor of 
 all classes and conditions ; nor were the prisons 
 neglected in their ministrations. The Debtors' 
 Prison, located in the Park, was then often the un- 
 willing abode of distracted fathers, who,, by this un- 
 wise policy, were prevented from earning bread for 
 their families or means to pay their debts. To 
 soothe alike their families, and point them to the 
 blessed Saviour, were errands of mercy frequently 
 undertaken. 
 
 FROM HER JOURNAL. 
 
 " Thursday, December 30, 18 13. This morning I 
 was awakened by severe pain, and, on account of 
 some domestic trifles felt my mind mugh cast down ; 
 
62 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 but looking toward the land of rest silenced every 
 murmuring thought, and I felt a sweet, still peace 
 occupying all my soul. 
 
 " In the evening met a few of my sisters in Jesus 
 in a band-meeting. O, 'twas a little heaven below to 
 my soul ! A dear sister, who was reading Fletcher 
 on Perfection, was so seriously impressed that it was 
 her duty to request a few of her sisters to join her 
 in seeking for a deeper experience in divine things, 
 that she appointed this little meeting to-night for the 
 purpose. My heart was filled with gladness when it 
 was proposed to me, and, though much opposed in it 
 by a near friend of mine, I readily joined it. 
 
 "We spake freely one to another, and the Lord 
 owned and blessed us very graciously. At the close 
 of the meeting I trembled for fear of the cross of 
 praying aloud ; but hoped I would be excused, being 
 the youngest and least experienced in the company. 
 But the Lord disappointed me, for I was called upon to 
 pray ; and never do I remember to have had so power- 
 ful a spirit of prayer lent me as at this time. It is 
 all God's work. His be all the glory. 
 
 "Sabbath, yanuary 10, 1814. This day has been 
 stormy. It hailed and snowed constantly. And I 
 don't know but self-indulgence in not exposing my- 
 self to the weather to attend meeting was the means 
 of bringing darkness on my own mind. I frequently 
 endeavored to fix my mind on the word of God, but, 
 alas ! it did not touch my heart. Here I find myself 
 often too slow to understand or believe ; too dull to 
 taste the sweetness of the ' good word of life.' 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 63 
 
 " In the evening, when conversing with a friend, I 
 •had such a sight of my own heart as was almost too 
 much for me to bear. I never felt to groan so 
 sincerely to be delivered from pride as at this time. I 
 saw it mixed with all my labors, words, and thoughts ; 
 and could emphatically say, ' Pride, that busy sin, 
 spoils all that I perform.' I cried over this sight of 
 my heart for several hours, and refused to be com- 
 forted by any earthly thing, until the Lord spoke to 
 my heart, saying, 'The blood of Jesus Christ his 
 Son cleanseth from all sin.' Here only I found 
 peace. 
 
 "Sabbath, April 3, 18 14. A heavy cloud covers 
 my mind, and presses it closer to this miserable earth. 
 I seem like those who are deprived of the light of the 
 natural sun for months. My Sun of righteousness 
 has not shown his brightness on my soul for many 
 days. Yet, strange that in this darkness I am 
 enabled to see into the depths of my heart clearer 
 than I ever did before. I see in myself nothing but 
 vileness and weakness ; but I do not see that love 
 and strength in the Redeemer that I ought. I see 
 him a God of purity, that will not look upon sin with 
 the least degree of allowance ; but I cannot feel that 
 stream that was opened in the house of David for 
 sin and uncleanness. I am as the man at the pool 
 side, frequently on the verge ; I have not strength to 
 step in and be healed of my infirmities. I believe .1 
 am all inconsistency. One moment I am running the 
 heavenly race with alacrity and delight, and a little 
 while after I seem to crawl with leaden shoes. Is it, 
 
J/hr. Meay u: Mo$oh. 
 
 - 
 Tell v Spirit! 
 
 7 514 What a vus 
 
 trials has this been : s A public 
 
 examination of mj school eight hundred 
 
 s obliged to speak in public on various 
 
 subjects, and among the rest to openly defend a 
 
 ig children a pleasure in reading 
 Sci ptures Had the satisfeetion to hear pra - 
 
 . mouth, and satisfaction for my performance in 
 ^turning home too much putted up 
 and filled with self, when the most 
 trial I had vet experienced attacked me. My mind 
 as s iprepared for such an assault that I found 
 self deprived of patience, and sinking fast, my 
 only safetj was to fly. I was weak in body and 
 mind, and obliged to attend another fatigui 
 ing in the afternoon without taking any refreshment. 
 I thank thee, O my God ! for thy tender mercy in 
 appointing this fiery trial to bring down my pride. 
 and force me to acknowledge that ssing I 
 
 enjov and g xl I do is from thee and by thee, 
 
 hat a lesson ir was tc teach me to continue con- 
 stantly on my watch-tower ! 
 
 v 1S14. The examination was rev 
 this day before five hundred parents of the children, 
 and several other respeo table persons. It was a most 
 interesting scene. es were filled with tears 
 
 of filial love and gratitude. A suitable ac 
 read by a female Friend to the parents, and another 
 added extempore by the same on the importance of 
 
65 
 
 the Bible, and the exercises were concluded 
 solemn prayer by another female Friend. Thus 
 closed the day, not as the former, with pride and 
 
 ;fication, but tranquil I could now give the 
 to Hira to whom it was due for the evident 
 improvement of my little flock." 
 
 ,m the above extracts we vrblic respon- 
 
 sibilities pressed upon M an. We learn, also, 
 
 her anxiety that her pupils should be instructed 
 in the wc I, to which it appears there 
 
 What a responsible pas: 
 was now held by the timorous maiden who had 
 but a few years before ventured to improve her one 
 talent ! 
 
 She was ever on the alert to mingle moral and re- 
 
 is instruction while cultivating the intellectual 
 powers of her pupils. To this end the copies set for 
 their imitation, the verses wrought on their samplers, 
 all* contained some wholesome truth, or inculcated 
 some useful lesson. Specimens of penmanship and 
 compositions carefully preserved, from their subject- 
 matter, plainly tell the story of the patient teacher's 
 unceasing care and discipline. Habits of nea:r 
 order, and industry were strictly enforced in the 
 schools. The love of truth was made of the first 
 importance, and woe be to the unclean tongue that 
 uttered a falsehood, for nothing less than soap and 
 sand was considered powerful enough to cleanse it. 
 The Sed ends seeing the great usefulness 
 
 of these schools, sought to establish them in various 
 
 country neighborhoods. M an was often 
 
 3 
 
66 Life of Mrs. Alary W. Mason. 
 
 called upon to organize these new schools, and in- 
 struct the teachers in the method pursued in the 
 Association schools under her care. In doing this 
 she visited Long Island, parts of Jersey, and West- 
 chester county, thus enlarging the circle of her 
 influence. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 67 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 ORIGIN OF METHODIST SUNDAY-SCHOOLS IN NEW YORK 
 CITY. 
 
 Formation of First Methodist Sunday-School — Dr. Phoebus — Stephen 
 Dando — Francis Hall and Wife — Lancaster S. Burling — Old Min- 
 ute Book — Recollections of A. C. Wheeler — Marriage, 1817 — First 
 Methodist Book Room — Private School — Sexton of John-street. 
 
 Now that Sunday-schools form so great an element 
 of power in the Church and nation, and count their 
 hosts by millions, the inquiry concerning their origin 
 becomes exceedingly interesting. Having no data 
 upon which to trace the beginnings of the Sunday- 
 school movement in other sections, we are fortunate 
 in having the materials before us by which we are 
 enabled to trace to their sources the movements in 
 .our city as relates to the Methodist Church. It will 
 be seen that to the subject of this memoir belongs 
 the honor of planting the first school among us. 
 This historic event glows with a light that dims all 
 subsequent deeds, and marks a period in her career 
 of usefulness pregnant with more lasting conse- 
 quences to the Church than all other acts combined. 
 A jubilee celebration in old John-street brought out 
 to the public the secret history, which was in Mrs. 
 Mason's keeping alone. It is here stated in her own 
 words : 
 
 " Having been requested to give such account as I 
 
68 Life of Mrs, Mary W. Mason. 
 
 was able of the rise and progress, of the Sabbath- 
 schools connected with the Methodist Episcopal 
 Church in this city, I undertake the task with some 
 reluctance, fearing I shall .incur the character of an 
 egotist in. its performance ; but, leaving that in the 
 care of that special Providence which guided the 
 steps of the pioneers of this blessed cause, I will en- 
 deavor, to give facts and statistics as they occur to 
 memory, or are derived from minutes in my possession. 
 "My first knowledge of a Sabbath-school any- 
 where was one commenced by me in the school 
 under the patronage of the Female Association, a 
 society of ladies, mostly Friends, by whom I was em- 
 ployed as Principal. Then, as now, there was much 
 jealousy of religious sectarian instruction in this, the 
 only female free school in the city. I was cautioned of 
 the expediency of being very prudent on this subject. 
 I felt such responsibility for the immortal interest of 
 the souls (then about three hundred) under my care, 
 that, to avoid a breach of the instructions given me, „ 
 and to satisfy conscience, I fell upon the plan of 
 meeting my own scholars, and any visitors they might 
 bring, on Sabbath mornings in our own school-room, 
 at the corner of Chatham-street and Tryon Row : 
 children of all denominations, but the largest num- 
 ber Roman Catholics, gathered from the vicinity of 
 what is now the Five Points. In these Sabbath 
 morning meetings the Bible was read and expounded, 
 and catechetical instruction given, with exhortation 
 and prayer. We dispersed at the sound of the church 
 bell, those whose parents were willing going with 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 69 
 
 me to old John-street Church, the rest where they 
 pleased. The Lord owned and blessed these feeble 
 labors ; many of the larger girls came to inquire more 
 particularly what they must do to be saved. Many 
 were converted, and testified in the love-feasts in 
 John-street of the blessings they received under this 
 simple means of grace, and had their names entered 
 in classes. Some remain faithful and useful mem- 
 bers of the Church to the present. But behold how 
 great a matter a little fire kindleth ! These feeble 
 efforts drew forth a publication of censure on account 
 of the sectarian influence exercised in our public 
 schools. To silence this, a plan of general catecheti- 
 cal instruction was admitted. Now might be seen 
 in Public School No. I groups of children in differ- 
 ent parts of the room, with a lady in the midst, hear- 
 ing them recite the catechism of the sect to which 
 they belonged. But the female school being under 
 a private organization was defended from these intru- 
 sions, and the principal, unrestricted, was permitted 
 to pursue her own course in giving religious instruc- 
 tions. The reading of the Bible and prayer were 
 now made the opening exercises of the day, and as 
 the spiritual interest among the girls still continued, 
 an early morning prayer-meeting was established, in 
 which the parents of the children would sometimes 
 join. 
 
 " About this time accounts of the wonderful bene- 
 fits of the Sabbath-school system in England reached 
 New York, and some benevolent Christian ladies, 
 consulting together on this subject, determined to 
 
yo Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 call a general meeting of the ladies from the different 
 Churches in the city to consider the expediency of 
 forming a Sabbath-School Union. The meeting was 
 well attended, and a general expression given in favor 
 of the Union. 
 
 " Names were now called for of ladies who would 
 bring the subject before their respective Churches. 
 The names of the Churches were called in order, and 
 ladies volunteered to represent them. The Meth- 
 odist — I looked around for some fellow-member to 
 volunteer, but I was the only Methodist belonging to 
 the city present at the meeting. Though in feeble 
 health, and already encumbered with as much care 
 as I thought I could bear, I stepped forward with a 
 trembling heart, expressed my cordial approval of the 
 object, and promised to present the subject to the 
 Methodist Episcopal Church. I immediately consulted 
 my esteemed friends, Brother and Sister Francis 
 Hall. They were much pleased with the object, and 
 we then agreed to have a notice read in the several 
 Methodist Episcopal Churches the next Sabbath, to 
 invite such persons as approved of the design to 
 meet in the John-street Church on an afternoon of 
 the same week. At the time appointed we were at 
 the church, but no more than four persons met with 
 us, Brothers Bakewell and Dando, and the two 
 daughters of Dr. Phoebus, then one of our stationed 
 preachers. Though disappointed, we were not dis- 
 couraged. In the large square pew in front of the 
 altar, in old John-street, was the plan of Sabbath- 
 school operations determined. Brothers Bakewell 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 71 
 
 and Hall, Sister Hall and myself, were appointed a 
 committee to lay the subject before the official board 
 of the Church, at its meeting the same week, in the 
 Lecture Room of the Second-street (now Forsyth- 
 street) Church. We presented the subject, but many 
 objections were raised. The most plausible were 
 these, namely, there was a flourishing Day School 
 belonging to the Church ; it was thought we could 
 not support both. 
 
 " Again, if the parents could get their children 
 taught on Sabbath they would not send them on 
 week days. We endeavored to answer them, but 
 apparently with little success, when our Rev. friend, 
 Dr. Phcebus, arose, saying, ' Brothers and sisters, I 
 bid you God speed in your undertaking ; it is a good 
 cause. I and my family will help you all we can.' 
 This short address was in our favor. We obtained 
 permission to go forward, and the use of the school- 
 room opposite Second (now Forsyth) street Church 
 was granted. Without any regular organization, we 
 determined to open the school on the next Sabbath 
 morning, giving what notice we could through the 
 week meetings. Brother A. C. Wheeler and I were 
 appointed to commence the school. It was a rainy 
 morning, the first Sabbath in November, 18 15, (if I 
 mistake not :) I was present at nine o'clock. The 
 first scholar that offered was an adult, who did not 
 know her letters. Soon Brother Wheeler entered 
 with some boys. Thus we continued from Sabbath 
 to Sabbath to receive of scholars and teachers, until, 
 the room being too small to accommodate so many, 
 
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74 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 copal Church." Beyond the election of Mrs. Mason 
 to the superintendency of " No. 8 " (supposed to be 
 Forsyth-street) in the years 1820 and 1821, the old 
 " Minute book " is silent, as its records close with 
 the latter year. 
 
 Thus was commenced the first Methodist Sunday- 
 school in New York city, owing its origin, under an 
 over-ruling Providence, to this energetic young dis- 
 ciple, who was ever ready to enter every open door 
 to work in the Master's vineyard. The effort, begun 
 in weakness, and under adverse circumstances, has 
 been so wonderfully and signally blessed of God as 
 to have become, a great power in our land. In after 
 years, when the subject of our memoir was present 
 at a gathering of all the Methodist Sunday-schools of 
 New York, assembled in and filling "Washington 
 Square," she exclaimed, with tears in her eyes, 
 " What had God wrought ? " her memory going back 
 more than forty years to the first efforts at No. I, 
 held in Tryon Row. 
 
 A busy life was now hers. Every day had its du- 
 ties, methodically assigned, which were performed 
 with diligence and assiduity. We see her as she 
 wends her way down Chatham-street to her school- 
 room, where, on entering, she receives the morning 
 greetings to " Miss Mary." Six years have passed 
 with all their changes since these schools were com- 
 menced. In them many have been trained first to 
 be monitors, and then teachers in the country schools. 
 Letters from these are preserved, in which advice is 
 asked, trials related, and successes narrated. Again 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 75 
 
 we watch her as, clad in plain apparel, she visits the 
 abodes of wretchedness and want, administering to 
 the sick, soul and body. On Sabbath, with quiet but 
 energetic step, she passes among the teachers and 
 scholars, as one remarked who remembers her well 
 in No. I, " never idling nor trifling, but always attent- * 
 ive to her duties." Such a life could but be ob- 
 served and marked by all who witnessed it. Strange 
 as it may seem, her health was much improved, and 
 strength seemed to be given her from on high for in- 
 creasing responsibilities. 
 
 In this year (18 16) the " Asbury Female Mite So- 
 ciety" was formed, "for the relief of necessitated 
 traveling supernumerary and superannuated preach- 
 ers, their wives, widows, and children." We quote 
 from reports kept on file by the subject of our me- 
 moir. It took its rise and name from the memora- 
 ble example of Bishop Asbury, who, for a few years 
 before his death, carried around with him a subscrip- 
 tion paper which he called "a mite subscription." 
 What he thus collected was distributed at the re- 
 spective Conferences among the most necessitous of 
 their mernbers, and such as were dependent on them 
 for temporal support. After his death it was asked, 
 " Who shall supply his place ? " A few pious females 
 associated together, and answered the question by 
 forming a " Female Mite Society." Miss M. took an 
 active part in this society for many years. The 
 treasurer was Mrs. G. Shotwell, who lived to an ad- 
 vanced age, the firm and ardent friend of the preach- 
 ers. To this society good Mrs. Lamplin bequeathed 
 
J 6 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 five hundred dollars, and in its list of officers and 
 managers appear many worthy women who have 
 gone to reap their reward. 
 
 Among the earnest Christian women who pre- 
 sented themselves as helpers in No. I Sunday-school 
 was Miss Eliza M. Verplanck, who, through the spe- 
 cial blessing of God upon the words of a poor but 
 pious gardener, had been led to see the false security 
 of her formal religion, and the necessity of separating 
 herself from her worldly and ungodly associates. 
 With humble views of herself, and ascetic notions of 
 hsr duties, she adopted an almost menial garb, quite 
 contrasting with the high station in life to which she 
 was born. Her great anxiety was to do good. She 
 cheerfully and diligently taught a class of colored 
 adults, who followed her teachings with affection and 
 reverence. To her they looked as their faithful friend 
 and succorer, spiritually and temporally. A warm 
 friendship sprung up between Miss Morgan and Miss 
 Verplanck, which continued through the vicissitudes 
 of their varied lives. When the Female Missionary 
 Society was formed Miss Verplanck was warmly inter- 
 ested, and many a mission family were comforted by 
 her timely contributions to their necessities. 
 
 FROM MISS MORGAN'S JOURNAL. 
 
 " January i, 1817. My mind was sweetly stayed 
 upon the Lord all this day. My trials have been great. 
 The enemy appears to have assumed a new form, and 
 to take upon him, as it were, the form of an angel of 
 light, to draw my mind from the power of truth ; but, 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. J 7 
 
 through the grace of the Lord Jesus, I am enabled 
 to discern my enemy in all his devices, and come" 
 of! more than conqueror through Him that hath 
 loved me. 
 
 " I have felt an uncommon resignation to the will 
 of the Lord in all things. I throw myself at his feet, 
 with all that I possess, and beg of him to dispose 
 of me and mine agreeably to his own divine will and 
 wisdom. 
 
 " I have been earnestly solicited to change my situa- 
 tion in life ; but having committed all my ways to the 
 keeping of my heavenly Father, to him I resign the 
 disposal of myself for time and eternity. By con- 
 sulting the will of my heavenly Father, I find that 
 this is not the person of his choice, and, therefore, I 
 have given a positive refusal." 
 
 Andrew C. Wheeler, long identified with Method- 
 ism in Forsyth and Allen streets, now living at an 
 advanced age, has furnished us with some recollec- 
 tions of Miss Morgan. " First saw Mary Morgan at 
 the house of her uncle, John Morgan, in the year 
 1 8 14. She was a modest, plain, and beautiful young 
 lady, teacher of a free school established by the 
 Friends. She was a member of my class for many 
 years. One day Thos. Eddy, an eminent Friend, 
 and a highly spiritual man, called upon me at my 
 place of business, and said to me, ' Andrew, I tell 
 thee what I think of Mary Morgan ; I believe she is 
 called to preach the Gospel, and you may tell her 
 that for me.' Thos. Eddy was wealthy, had retired 
 from business, and spent his whole time in doing good. 
 
78 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 "One day Joshua Soule and two other ministers 
 came to dine with me. While at dinner the "conver- 
 sation ran on public schools, teaching, etc., when I 
 spoke eulogistically of Mary Morgan, offering to 
 prove all I said, promising, if they would call at my 
 place of business, to take them to her school, that 
 they might judge of her capacity for themselves. So 
 they called, and entering the school-room, we found 
 three girls standing up before her. Miss Morgan 
 said, ' Brother Andrew, one of these girls has told a 
 falsehood, and I have brought, as you see, some sand 
 and soap, with which to scour her filthy mouth.' 
 They were delighted with their visit. In her was 
 combined more dignity, modesty, and purity than I 
 ever saw in any other." 
 
 HER MARRIAGE. 
 
 Miss Morgan had been several times solicited to 
 change her situation in life, but without success. 
 Indeed, she had rather taken a resolution to remain 
 single, thinking she would thus have a better oppor- 
 tunity for doing good, and pursuing her favorite occu- 
 pation of teaching. God in his providence had other 
 designs for her, which were in his own good time 
 wrought out. 
 
 In the year 1816 Thomas Mason (a young preacher 
 from the South Carolina Conference) was appointed 
 to assist Joshua Soule in the management of the 
 " Book Room," then kept in the front room of Mrs. 
 Lamplin's house on Church, near White street. Here 
 were kept for sale hymn books, Wesley's Works, and 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 79 
 
 other good books. Such was the small beginning of 
 an enterprise which has now swelled to such mam- 
 moth proportions. While Miss Morgan was quietly 
 discharging her school duties, her friend, A. C. 
 Wheeler, took several gentlemen to visit her school ; 
 one of these was Rev. Thomas Mason. Thus was 
 commenced an acquaintance which resulted in 
 marriage in the spring of 181 7. In uniting her 
 interests with that of an itinerant preacher Miss 
 Morgan counted the cost, resolving to serve God in 
 her new relation. The newly married pair took board 
 with Francis Hall and wife, in whom they found fast 
 friends and wise counselors. 
 
 Thus closes two stages in the journey of life — 
 childhood and youth. In both she had been illustri- 
 ous. The one marked by the triumph of religious 
 convictions over parental persecution, and the other 
 by industry in the fields of usefulness, hardly paral- 
 leled in the generation which witnessed her career. 
 She now entered upon the third stage of her pilgrim- 
 age. Was her zeal to be quenched ? Were her 
 activities to be relaxed ? Were the burdens of the 
 married life to drive her into obscurity, where thou- 
 sands are driven ? or was she to enter new paths, and, 
 in the relations of wife and mother, give' evidence to 
 the world that a resolute zeal for God's glory, can 
 find fields of usefulness every-where, and in all con- 
 ditions ? 
 
 PRIVATE SCHOOL. 
 
 tylrs. Mason continued to teach in the Association 
 school for some time after her marriage. More than 
 
80 . Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 seven years having elapsed since the formation of the 
 first school, many others had been opened, many 
 scholars had been trained to take positions of respon- 
 sibility. Some of these afterward became Principals 
 of flourishing private schools, thus widening the 
 circles of influence. During the year 1818 Mrs. 
 Mason retired from the field of labor in which she 
 had toiled so long and so successfully. In May of 
 the same year she opened a private school for young 
 ladies, in which she was assisted by her cousin, Miss 
 Susan Morgan, who had been trained in the Associa- 
 tion schools. The school numbered over forty the 
 first year, including in the number four daughters of 
 Rev. Joshua Soule, three of Garrett M. Bleecker, Esq., 
 one of Samuel Harper, and one of A. C. Wheeler.. 
 The same habit of neatness and order, the same 
 thoroughness of instruction, was carried out in this, 
 as in the Association schools. 
 
 In August, 1 8 18, Mrs. Mason became a mother. 
 The child was baptized Mary by Rev. Nathan Bangs. 
 The school was continued through 18 19, with in- 
 creased numbers. In the spring of 1820 it was dis- 
 continued. 
 
 PETER WILLIAMS. 
 
 Among the pious friends of those days was Peter 
 Williams, the old colored sexton of John-street 
 Church. Some account of Peter was furnished by 
 the subject of our memoir to Rev. J. B. Wakeley for 
 " Lost Chapters," etc. We copy from the original 
 manuscript : 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 8 1 
 
 u It was customary for Brother Williams on special 
 cocasions to invite a party of ministers and their wives 
 to take tea with him. He would not sit at the table 
 with them, but he and his good wife .Molly would 
 wait -on the guests. I had the honor to be present 
 on some such occasions. The table, spread with 
 taste, and covered with specimens of Molly's culinary 
 art in viands and confectionery, would elicit praise 
 in act and word from the gratified guests. The good 
 humor of Brother Peter would break forth in 
 anecdotes of former times, when the* persecuted 
 Methodists met in the old John-street Church. At 
 one time he related ' they were hooted at by the 
 soldiers, and disturbed in their solemn exercises. 
 On one occasion said Brother Williams, * The soldiers 
 would crowd around the door when the sisters were 
 coming out, and cut their dresses.' ' On<je at a love- 
 feast, in the evening, when we had the doors locked, 
 and had a good meeting inside, the wicked ones out- 
 side dug a pit opposite the door, and when the folks 
 came out they tumbled into it in heaps ; ' but this 
 was digging a worse pit for themselves, for when the 
 commanding officers heard of these doings the per- 
 petrators were punished." 
 6 
 
82 ' Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 FORMATION OF THE FEMALE MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 
 
 Formation of Female Missionary Society, 1819 — List of Officers 
 and Managers — Pastor's Wife, 1820 — Visits among the Poor — 
 Rev. John Summerfield — Yellow Fever — Sickness — Death Visits 
 the Family — Journal. 
 
 On the 5th of July, 18 19, "a number of females" 
 met at the Wesleyan Seminary in Forsyth-street for 
 the purpose of forming an Auxiliary Society to the 
 Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal 
 Church, which had been formed the previous April. 
 The meetiftg was opened with prayer by Rev. N. 
 Bangs, who afterward stated the object of the meet- 
 ing. The names of those present are recorded in 
 the first minute-book of the Society, in which 
 appear the names of " honorable women not a few." 
 
 At a subsequent meeting* a constitution was 
 adopted. 
 
 The names of those composing this first and time- 
 honored auxiliary we think worthy of record, and 
 therefore extract them from the first annual report 
 presented by Mrs. Mason* 
 
 Mrs. Thomas Mason, First Directress. 
 " John Vanderpool, Second Directress. 
 " Doctor Seaman, Treasurer. 
 " Caroline M. Thayer, Secretary. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 83 
 
 MANAGERS. 
 
 Mrs. Thomas Capenter, Miss M. I. Morgan, 
 
 " William Myers, " Susan Lamplin, 
 
 " A. Shotwell, " Susan Brewer, 
 
 " J. Ketchum, " Eliza Higgins, 
 
 " J. Westfield, " Maria Arcularius, 
 
 u Peter Badeau, " Eliza Seaman, 
 
 " Doctor Gregory, " Eliza A. Anderson, 
 
 " Wm. Duvall, " Anna Williams. 
 
 " Ezekiel Halsted, " S. Boyce, 
 
 " W. B. B. Young, " Clarissa T. Nichols, 
 
 " J. B. Gascoigne, " I. A. Low, 
 
 Miss Rebecca Burling, " Harriet Donaldson. 
 
 A committee was appointed, consisting of Mrs. 
 Thayer, Mrs. Mason, and Miss Brewer, to prepare 
 an address to the " female members and friends of 
 the Methodist Episcopal Church." A copy of this 
 address (preserved on file, and probably composed 
 by Mrs. M.) is before us. After speaking of the 
 growing wants of our own country, the sacrifices of 
 missionaries, etc., it continues : 
 
 " Shall we, who dwell in ease and plenty whose, 
 tables are loaded with the bounties of Providence," 
 and whose persons are clothed with the fine wrought 
 materials of the eastern loom ; shall we, who sit 
 under the droppings of the sanctuary, and are blessed 
 with the stated ordinances of the house of God, thus 
 highly, thus graciously privileged, shall we deny the 
 small subscription this institution solicits, to extend 
 the bare necessaries of life to our dear brethren who 
 are' spending their strength and wasting their health 
 in traversing dreary mountains and pathless forests 
 to carry the glad tidings of free salvation to the 
 
84 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 scattered inhabitants of the wilderness ? From the 
 days of Joanna, the wife of Chusa, and other pious 
 women, who ministered of their substance to the 
 Lord to the present period, female charitable insti- 
 tutions have experienced the peculiar smiles of a 
 gracious Providence. 
 
 " We are not called to the more arduous 
 employments of active life ; we are exempted from 
 the toils and cares of official stations in the Church ; 
 but God has, nevertheless, required of us that our 
 all should be devoted to his service. 
 
 " Let us imitate the pious Phebe, who was a serv- 
 ant of the Church ; Mary and Persis, who labored 
 much in the Lord; and those other godly women of the 
 apostolic age whose memory still lives in the page 
 of inspiration ; let us leave nothing unattempted 
 that promises to promote the advancement of the 
 Redeemer's kingdom." 
 
 In this new enterprise Mrs. Mason entered with 
 holy zeal, anxious for the spread of the Redeemer's 
 kingdom. This most efficient Auxiliary continued 
 in operation for near fortv years, during a great part 
 of which Mrs. Mason was "Directress. 
 
 Her identity with this interesting Society will be 
 traced in the subsequent pages of this book. 
 
 In 1820 the little family removed to 88 Chrystie- 
 street, where the second child was born. About this 
 time God in his good providence brought into the 
 family circle a most efficient helper to assist in .the 
 increasing cares. In Miss Sarah Sickles Mrs. Ma- 
 son ever found one ready to administer to the family 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 85 
 
 comfort ; and, through her flfchful diligence, Mrs. M. 
 was enabled to still attend to many public duties. 
 Thus does the Lord open the way for those who put 
 their trust in him. In one of Mrs. Mason's visits 
 among the poor, a dying widowed mother besought 
 her to look after her boys when she should have 
 passed away. Mrs. Mason promised to do so, and 
 after the mother's death secured a place for- one, and 
 took the other into her own family. This proved to 
 be a great charge ; but faithfully and prayerfully Mr. 
 and Mrs. Mason labored with him to fit him for future 
 usefulness,* and in after years he acknowledged his 
 indebtedness to their kindness, and expressed sorrow 
 for his wayward conduct. 
 
 Mrs. Mason was still deeply interested in the mis- 
 sionary cause, and, by reference to the minute-book, 
 we find that the managers' meetings were frequently 
 held at her house during a period of several years. 
 Much interest was manifested in the mission to the 
 Wyandot Indians, and the sisters labored assiduously 
 to collect necessaries for the various mission families. 
 Among the names of donors are many whose children 
 live to honor the Church, and labor for the cause of 
 God. 
 
 In 1822 the family removed to No. 5 Chatham 
 Square, in the lower part of which building was kept 
 the " Book Room," in which Mr. Mason was still en- 
 gaged. From correspondence still preserved, we find 
 the interest taken by the preachers scattered north 
 
 ° This lad, when grown to mature years, held a position of trust 
 under government, namely, Consul to Tangiers, Africa. 
 
c.r_: - r.: ■ . ; .; 4. -. ' :. , '. - -', - '=. ' '- : . r 
 
 - . : 
 
 : : : - . i . - - . 
 
 / : -: - \ _■-"'- '■_ . - " ,- : •-. '-. c.-. :.'. 
 
 5.'.'. ^ - 
 
 -. ; ■ . - .- ; --.-.' ."'-'. --■'-' ' •'-" 
 
 S sier Marv - s good tea." Mrs Mason ever spoke 
 
 '.-- ' - .- •/ v. ■'--"'- ' " " '-'-''- '-' '- ."' • ' V, 
 
 m curiosity to hear what this young 
 bachelor could say about training children. After 
 
 
 
 proceeded to read Wesley's sermon on die subject, 
 r emarking that it contained bis own sentiments, and 
 
 7 - . - - ---.---.' - , v. - ,;- , i - v, ' v, v. .' 
 
 imagined than described 
 
 2*7 i, 1821. On the opening of this new 
 
 -■'.-.-./. ■■ .- . : ' Vx v. ' ." v.- *."- '.;,.'.*- 
 -i -. . r, .v.- - . - - . , r — ;i/. ;;,\ 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary \V. Jfjsom fy 
 
 5S 
 
 unheeded, how man 
 but too faintly imp- ess 
 
 . this inattc :hy 
 
 .-.ken in my poor dull hea 
 lively gratitude for .ill thy bene - 
 
 3 
 
 nmk my dear ; Lomas Mason 
 
 united on the r8tl rf April, 1817 
 
 inced it « - 
 I should change my s this 
 
 the partner he e :his 
 
 ce, I am more than 1 
 union was of the Lord I a e be* Jess 
 lovely children ; th< lugUS 
 
 B N id the young 182c 
 
 ver] healthy . and p ss< ss 
 
 en supplied wi; 
 men! convenient and sufficient 
 ible dwell:-- 
 ised with good health Son 
 
 dence^ mingled in m] is se 
 
 ful m< ft the health c 
 
 soul, l^think I feel as sincerely thankful to: die 
 I haw- been permitted to expi aos 
 
 apparently prosper dus circumstances 
 1 desire to record them among the mercies I bave 
 
 ried e 
 
 severe and nun als than an 
 
 met in .-. 
 
88 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 formed by prayerful inquiry of God, and a conviction 
 of divine approbation, blessings will be added, which 
 those in a single state cannot expect. Among the 
 chief of these is a companion whose heart shall be as 
 thine, and in whose bosom the secrets of thy soul may 
 be intrusted with perfect confidence; whose sympa- 
 thetic attentions will smooth the rugged path of life,, 
 whose enjoyments shall increase thy own, and whose 
 Christian life (particularly private life) and godly con- 
 versation shall provoke to love and good works, and 
 be: as so many helps through this wilderness to a land 
 of everlasting rest. If children be added, how is every 
 domestic enjoyment increased ! 
 
 " 'Delightful task l to reaa the tender thought, 
 
 And teach the young idea how to shoot.' 
 
 "What blessings in single life can be compared 
 with these ! and even the anticipations of the heavenly 
 inheritance are sweetened by the hope of meeting 
 those so dear to us on earth in that kingdom, never 
 to be separated again. By such considerations, I 
 think it must be acknowledged the married life (with 
 all its trials) is the most profitable and happy. I bless 
 the Lord for granting me these comforts, with the 
 addition of Christian acquaintance and friends, with 
 whom my soul has often taken sweet counsel 
 
 " ' I low do thy mercies (lose me round I 
 
 Forever he thy name adored ; 
 I blush in all things to abound ; 
 
 The servant is above Iter Lord.' 
 
 " To recount the many spiritual blessings of 
 which I have partaken would be impossible. Min- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 89 
 
 Utes in quick succession come, but blessings quicker 
 still. 
 
 "The first year of my marriage was a season of 
 soic temptationi and the enemy of my soul tried very 
 hard to draw me from my Stronghold, and plunge 
 
 me into sin; but, glory be to the Captain of my salva- 
 tion ! though tried as by fire, and that in my weakest 
 part, I was enabled to stand, and through grace, to 
 come off more than conqueror. This conquest has 
 had, I think, a. tendency to establish and ground me 
 in the faith. Though my soul has, since that time, 
 been often cast down, yet I thank God I have not 
 cast away my confiden< e, 
 
 "Many spiritual helps have been afforded me; 
 among the number I desire to name the following: 
 
 A female prayer-meeting, in which I have; often met 
 and enjoyed the presence of my blessed Master. 
 
 Mere I must give God the glory for the victory over 
 a spirit of bondage that has often oppressed my soul, 
 
 and at one time; was near causing me to make ship- 
 wreck of faith. I mean, a man-fearing spirit, So 
 harassed was I by it, that when in any meeting or 
 place where; I thoughl it probable I would be called 
 Upon to exercise by prayer, or speaking publicly, I 
 would hide myself in the most obscure corner, and 
 there sit trembling, sometimes with the perspiration 
 in large drops on my forehead, for fear of being called 
 upon to take up my cross. \ finally began to think 
 of joining the Friends' Society, where I need only 
 exercise as I pleased, and found it easy. 
 
 "So much was f pleased with this self-indulgent 
 
90 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 doctrine that I even refrained from secret prayer, ex- 
 cepting I found my soul drawn out in a very particu- 
 lar manner. My class was neglected on the same 
 principle, and I only went when I found I could 
 speak with ease. I began in like manner to neglect 
 every means of grace, and attend to duties only as I 
 found a particular impulse to perform them. O fal- 
 lacious and soul-killing doctrine ! how far it would 
 have carried me I know not : I think probably 
 down to hell, if my long-suffering and most merciful 
 God had not by the true Spirit enlightened my soul, 
 and shown me that pride was at the bottom, and my 
 fear of taking up my cross was only because I feared 
 to expose my want -of spiritual life, or of making 
 errors which my associates might criticize upon. I 
 saw that by indulging this doctrine I was bringing 
 darkness and deadness upon my soul, by keeping 
 from the many helps with which the Lord had fa- 
 vored me. I do desire to ascribe everlasting praises 
 'to my gracious Master for his long-suffering and ten- 
 der mercy toward me at this season. 
 
 " Surely I should account it salvation, for had he 
 totally withdrawn his Spirit from me I might have 
 been lost. It was in his light I saw light, and by 
 the enlightening of his Holy Spirit I was given to 
 see from whence I had fallen, and whither I was 
 wandering and drawing others after me. I was by it 
 convinced that unless I denied myself, and took up 
 my cross, I could not be a disciple of the blessed 
 Jesus. We cannot be said to take up our cross in 
 the performance of duties when those duties are easy 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 91 
 
 and pleasant. We must deny ourselves, and take up 
 our cross in those things that are trying to flesh and 
 blood, but approved by the Spirit of God. I now 
 promised the Lord that I would, by his grace help- 
 ing me, be faithful, and no more refuse to confess 
 him, whether in public or private ; and I now bless 
 his holy name I have been enabled to do so, nor do I 
 think for four years I have refused to pray or speak 
 in public when called upon, if my bodily strength 
 would permit. In the prayer-meeting before men- 
 tioned my resolution was put to the proof. My dear 
 sisters thought proper to appoint me their leader. I 
 would have declined, if I dared, on account of my 
 inexperience and unworthiness, but the Lord re- 
 minded me ofmy former covenant, and I bowed in 
 submission, and he was pleased to manifest his pres- 
 ence and approbation at every meeting. I was also 
 called upon to exercise the gifts he had bestowed 
 upon me in sundry ways ; sometimes in leading a 
 class, by exhortation or prayer in my school, in the 
 Sabbath-school, or in several societies, of which I 
 was a privileged member, but particularly in a select 
 meeting where a number were united to pray for a 
 deeper work of grace on their souls, even their entire 
 sanctification. Here the Lord has sometimes almost 
 overpowered me by his love. 
 
 " At one time, when earnestly engaged for a clear 
 witness of the sanctifying power of the word, which 
 I had lost, or which was darkened some time before, he 
 was pleased to speak with power to my inmost soul : 
 ' I will, be thou clean.' By faith I was enabled to re- 
 
92 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 peat ' I will' several times, and it was again answered, 
 'According to thy faith be it done unto thee.' A 
 flood of joy and peace broke in upon my soul. I 
 told my brethren and sisters present how good the 
 Lord was to me, and how precious his love was to 
 my soul ; but I was not as explicit in describing the 
 work the Lord had wrought upon my heart as I 
 ought to have been. However, I was permitted to 
 enjoy this blessing for several weeks. But now, I 
 dare not say I enjoy as clear a witness of the sancti- 
 fying p^pwer of the grace of God upon my soul as I 
 did then ; but I am filled with an uninterrupted 
 peace, and I feel no condemnation, only I lack that 
 bright manifestation of the infinite love of God. I 
 have for a year past been uncommonly impressed 
 with a sense of the shortness of time, and the vanity 
 of earthly compared with eternal things. Lord, help 
 me so to number my days as to apply my heart 
 unto wisdom ! 
 
 "Sabbath, March 23, 1821. Through the great 
 mercy of my heavenly Father I have been permitted 
 to enjoy another of the days of the Son of God upon 
 earth. It has been a feast-day to my soul. I was 
 permitted to hear the Gospel trumpet sound, and to 
 partake of the Christian passover, the sacrament of 
 the Lord's Supper, for the first time in many 
 months. 
 
 " Since the last record was made in my journal I 
 have been confined to the house, and most of the 
 time to my bed, with a severe bodily affliction. Part 
 of the time I suffered extreme pain, and could not 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary /!'. Mason. 93 
 
 bear to move or be moved. The pain of body I en- 
 dured, concern about my little family, particularh 
 my babe, who was on the breast, and the probability 
 of being confined a long time, were very trying to 
 my patience ; but, praises to my heavenly Father ! I 
 found his grace, as heretofore, more than sufficient 
 My soul was brought into that state of resignation to 
 his will as to pray that the affliction might not be 
 removed until it had accomplished the thing for 
 which it was sent. I was comforted, soon after I 
 was seized with this bodily distress, with the 
 promise that all things work together for good to 
 them that love God.' I felt the assurance of his 
 Spirit witnessing with mine that I did love him, 
 though not in that measure I desired. I felt the 
 need of being humbled, and being brought to feel my 
 utter dependence upon tin- arm of Jehovah. This 
 affliction, I had no doubt, was sent for this purpose, 
 and I felt grace to thank the Lord for its merciful 
 appointment. 
 
 "I praise the Lord I was enabled to endure the 
 greatest bodily pain I ever endured for such a space 
 of time without a murmuring thought, or, I think, an 
 impatient word. Though I did not enjoy any extraor- 
 dinary manifestations, my soul was calmly stayed 
 upon the Lord, and I lay as clay in the hands of the 
 potter, to be formed to any shape I le pleased. There 
 appeared at times some probability that I should not 
 recover. I desired the will of the Lord might be 
 done, but felt an anxiety about leaving my dear com- 
 panion and children ; that I think will be taken away 
 
94 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 if I should be brought to the trial. I think the Lord 
 does not bestow premature or unnecessary grace. 
 All we can expect is grace equal to our day. He 
 has promised with every temptation to make a way 
 for our escape, and with every trial to add grace to 
 bear it. This is all we can expect, and by looking 
 for the grace without the trial we embarrass our 
 souls with needless care, and expose ourselves to 
 painful disappointments. I have often brought dark- 
 ness upon my soul in this way. But, bless God ! I 
 can now see the devices of Satan in this, and under- 
 stand the words of our Lord, that ' sufficient unto the 
 day is the evil thereof.' All I desire is an acquies- 
 ence to the Divine will. 
 
 " I thank God for what my soul enjoyed this day 
 under the preaching of my dear companion, and in 
 keeping the feast of the Lord as enjoined by the 
 Apostle Paul in the fifth chapter, seventh and eighth 
 verses of the First Epistle to the Corinthians : ' Purge 
 ye out, therefore, the old leaven, that you may be a 
 new lump,' etc. 
 
 "Monday, March 25. Throughout this day I felt in 
 some solemn sense the Divine presence, but I have 
 to lament my weakness in allowing the cares of my 
 little family and other incidental causes to de- 
 prive me of that intimate communion I might have 
 enjoyed by a more faithful discharge of my private 
 duty at a throne of grace. Here I find I am too 
 often deficient. Lord, grant to quicken me in the 
 inner man, and help me to watch more faithfully 
 unto prayer ! 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 95 
 
 " Sabbath, April 1. This day eleven years ago, weak 
 in body but strong in faith, I left my father's house 
 to come to this city, (then to me a land of strangers.) 
 At the call of the Lord, like Abraham, depending 
 only on the arm of Jehovah, and trusting his prom- 
 ises, I loosened my hold of every earthly stay, and 
 cast myself wholly on the protection of God. It was 
 indifferent to me where I labored if it was in my* 
 heavenly Father's vineyard, or how I was employed 
 if it was in his service, or how I was rewarded, if I 
 enjoyed but the smiles of his approving countenance. 
 Happy simplicity of first love ! Content to wear the 
 meanest apparel, and endure the roughest fare, I 
 lived by faith and not by sight, 
 
 ' Little and unknown, 
 
 Loved and prized by God alone.' 
 
 • But, alas ! how has my mind been since entan- 
 gledy by the cares of life, increased acquaintance, 
 new-formed attachments, and numberless nameless 
 circumstances. 
 
 " ' Our dearest joys, and nearest friends, 
 
 The partners of our blood, 
 How they divide our wavering minds, 
 
 And leave but half for God. 
 
 " But, O my soul, what abundant cause hast thou 
 to praise the Lord for his long-suffering, his tender 
 mercies and providential clre of thee in that time. 
 ' Praise him, O my soul, and forget not all his 
 benefits.' 
 
- 
 
 : 
 
 - 
 
 : 
 
 * Tkursdz- '- : : Ay mine - - : 
 
 '. 
 
 on 
 
 naijr 
 impatience because I could 
 
 Ktc Haw pa- 
 
 low- 
 
 Has he 
 
Life cf Mrs. Mi '" Mason. 97 
 
 seeking fruit from me, and finding none, (or only un- 
 righteous : has he spared the cumberer, and 
 said, ' Cut it do 
 
 : : Felt through this day a meas- 
 
 of that peace the world knows not of Ir_ 
 morning heard my dear husband preach, and felt 
 soul drawn out in prayer, that the Lord would en- 
 lighten his mind, and help him to declare his whole 
 counsel to the pec;^ ; felt my own soul blr 
 under the word, and heard several say they 
 heard Mr. Mason preach a better sermoiL Bat it 
 
 die Lord ; to him be all thegl:: 
 
 :he afternoon attended the 5 :hooL 
 
 Heard one soul (who had been the L 
 
 : wing for several months 
 him. whom her soul so ardently desired, or. 
 night last in private pr.v - 
 
 aged twenty-eight. Only knew hei tetters 
 
 :ed the school three months ag now 
 
 read with conc- 
 entered the school 
 
 - - - _ " 
 word ! 
 
 I have recorded any of the :. - . gs 
 - rhful heart. In that 
 
 acercist ? c . 
 
 unw 
 
 - - - - I 
 
 5 abiding and 
 
 I 
 
98 Life of Mrs. -Mary W. Mason. 
 
 sometimes struggle for it, but, alas ! I either do not 
 seek diligently for it, or I do not seek and expect it 
 -in the right way, or surely I should obtain. But I 
 think the constant breathing of my soul is for holi- 
 ness ; and I feel an assurance, if I am faithful in the 
 use of the means, the Lord will answer his Spirit's 
 cry in my soul. Amen, and Amen.. Come, Lord 
 Jesus, and come quickly into my heart. 
 
 " Wednesday, Oct. 24. This day much engaged in 
 domestic cares. , Found no time for closet exercises, 
 which neglect invariably brings deadness on my soul; 
 and yet, alas ! how prone to let trifles interfere. 
 
 " In the afternoon met the Female Missionary So- 
 ciety in my own house. Some of the managers com- 
 plain it is hard work to obtain money for this best of 
 causes, the spread of the Redeemer's kingdom. 
 Ah ! how many pray insincerely for this who will 
 not help it forward by the sacrifice of a single dollar 
 in a year. 
 
 " Thursday, 25. This day felt my mind comfort- 
 ably stayed upon the Lord; had but little time for 
 private prayer. In the evening heard my husband 
 preach in the room of a sick sister from, ' I am ready 
 to be offered ; the time of my departure is at hand. 
 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, 
 I have kept the faith ; henceforth, there is laid up for 
 me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the 
 righteous Judge, shall give me at that day, and not to 
 me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. 4 
 My dear companion was greatly assisted, and the Lord 
 was present of a truth. Every soul present, I believe, 
 
Mrs. Mary \V. Mason* 
 
 \ to be there, but I 
 did not feel that joyful divine love that my 
 
 heart is pant:: I dreaded the cross of being 
 
 Called upon to pray, hut was in hopes, there Wi l 
 
 v brethren pres I me ; 
 
 but 1 was disappointed. I never felt more unpre- 
 pared for exercising in public ; hut the Lord's strength 
 made perfect in my weakness. 
 
 rhrough this day I was supported 
 by that calm - the presence and goodnea 
 
 : which neithe: the mind bv rapturous 
 
 joy. nor sutlers it to be depressed by gloomy anxieties. 
 At my class in the evening I felt stirred to double my 
 dilig ecially in private prayer, and reading 
 
 the Holy Scriptures. blessed Lord! When shall I 
 be and d at ? 
 
 '■ Sabbath, 28, rhough indisposed in body, went 
 to meeting in the morning, but had to return in the 
 middle oi the sermon ami go to bed. 
 
 " In the afternoon attended the Sunday-school. 
 Though regular in outward duties. m\ soul has been 
 barren and unfruitful. I feel I want the quickening 
 influence of the Holy Spirit; but how .shall 1 obtain 
 it? by faith. Lord, help my unbelief! 
 
 "Sai . [822. By the abundant men 
 
 my I Ting God, I have been permitted to 
 
 0he commencement of another year. Here will 1 
 mine Lbene/er. for hitherto the Lord hath helped. 
 ( hi examining my spiritual state with what it w 
 twelvemonth ago, I blush at the ljttle if an\ 
 I have made. Mv soul has gone its round of duties 
 
IOO Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 like the wheels of my watch, without making any 
 sensible advancement. I stand seemingly where I 
 then stood, deploring my unfaithfulness and want of 
 zeal. I cannot perceive, through the unnumbered 
 mercies and precious privileges I have enjoyed, any 
 attainment I have made, but a deeper acquaintance 
 with my own heart, which I think has had a tendency 
 to make me take more patiently the unjust and un- 
 kind treatment of those who have dealt hardly with 
 me without a cause. I believe the views I have had 
 of my utter unworthiness of any favor from God or 
 man have made the blessings I have received far 
 sweeter, and the persecutions I have endured less 
 afflictive, than they otherwise would have been. My 
 God, continue to humble my spirit within me, until 
 my soul shall melt in thy presence, like wax before 
 the sun, and be thus prepared to take the impression 
 of the whole image of my blessed Redeemer. The 
 preparation of the heart is of God, and this, I believe, 
 is the preparation my soul requires, to receive the 
 blessing I so ardently desire ; namely, the whole 
 mind of Christ to be implanted in me. O ! why is 
 the blessing so long delayed ? Because I canno£ yet 
 receive it as a little child. How strange that I 
 should thus so plainly perceive my privileges and not 
 embrace them, so plainly see the hindering cause and 
 have not faith to overcome ! 'Tis cursed unbelief^ 
 that will not let my Saviour take possession of my 
 heart. 
 
 " October 27, 1822. My poor irregular diary is but 
 too true a picture of my inconstant and forgetful 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. ioi 
 
 heart ; ever designing to quicken my progress in the 
 heavenly race, but halting by the way ; daily tasting 
 that the Lord is gracious, but forgetting to acknowl- 
 edge it. Since the date of the last record in my 
 diary, I have had much cause to magnify the name 
 of the Lord. He hath blessed me with another little 
 daughter, who was born on the fifth anniversary of 
 our marriage. Previous to her birth my soul was 
 exercised with distressing apprehensions of suffering 
 and death, which made me pray more earnestly for 
 Divine support in the trying hour. The Lord heard 
 my feeble cry, and answered me in every particular 
 of my request. I call my babe Anna, after the good 
 old prophetess, and O, may she not only possess the 
 name but the spirit of that aged saint." 
 
 During part of 1822 the yellow fever prevailed, 
 causing desolation and death, especially in the lower 
 part of the city. Much suffering ensued. In com- 
 mon with many families a temporary removal was 
 made to the upper part of Hudson-street, called 
 Greenwich Village. The infected district was shut 
 off by a barrier. By an entry in Mrs. Mason's jour- 
 nal we note her thanksgiving that none of her family 
 had fallen a prey to the destroyer. 
 
 " Since the last of the month of July God has been 
 scourging our guilty city with a distressing pesti- 
 lence ; but in the midst of wrath he hath remem- 
 bered mercy, for such has been the progress of infec- 
 tion that it might be marked, and almost in every 
 instance notice was given of its approach, so that the 
 citizens in general might escape. One of our oldest 
 
102 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 and most worthy brothers fell a prey to the disease 
 in its most virulent type. To a brother who stood 
 beside his bed, he said, ' I have been striving to serve 
 the Lord for more than twenty years, and now that 
 I look back upon my life I see many errors, but the 
 blood of Jesus has washed them all away, and now I 
 have a bright prospect of heaven and eternal glory ; 
 
 ' Not a cloud doth arise to darken my skies, 
 Or hide'for a moment my Lord from my eyes.' 
 
 " Thus died good John Taylor, closing half a cen- 
 tury's Christian experience with a shout of glory, to 
 God. How different to the death of many of whom 
 we have heard, who were hurried away by the same 
 distressing disorder. Some awfully blaspheming the 
 name of their Maker while grappling with the king 
 of terrors. 
 
 "Monday, 28. This day my little Anna is half a 
 year old. May the Lord enable me to nurse the 
 precious plant for the paradise above ! She is a 
 child of prayer, dedicated to the Lord before she 
 breathed the vital air. May she be a plant of the 
 Lord's right hand planting, to be transplanted in 
 heaven, in his own good time ! 
 
 " The good Lord has been pouring a most refresh- 
 ing rain upon our city to-day and yesterday, and the 
 destroying angel seems to have sheathed his sword. 
 The exiled citizens are invited by the Board of Health' 
 to return to their deserted homes. O ! may they re- 
 turn with hearts fraught with gratitude to a long- 
 suffering God, who doth not afflict willingly. May I, 
 
9 
 
 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 103 
 
 for one, by divine aid, take the cup of salvation, and 
 calling upon the name of the Lord, pay my vows be- 
 fore him in the great congregation. 
 
 " yannary 1, 1823. Here may I, with praises to my 
 great Preserver and Comforter, record the close of 
 another year. Through His abundant mercy, death 
 has not been permitted to enter our dwelling, though 
 he has slain hundreds around us. I review the 
 scenes of another year, and see its hours, days, weeks, 
 and months strewed with temporal and spiritual 
 mercies ; but what returns have I made ? Alas ! 
 how cold my love, and how unprofitable my life ! To 
 the eye of my fellow-creatures, perhaps, I may have 
 seemed to be active in doing good ; but when I strict- 
 ly search my heart, I find my best performaftes need 
 to be washed in the blood of the Lamb, to make 
 them acceptable to God ; and in all my acts I may 
 cry out with the poet, ' Ev'ry moment, Lord, I need 
 the merit of thy death.' I find so much of self still 
 within me ! It is my most subtle and powerful foe. 
 Lord, grant me complete victory over it ! 
 
 " January 1 7. My soul has been this day more 
 than usually drawn out to God in prayer that he 
 would revive his work ; particularly previous to go- 
 ing to my class, I felt much enlargement of heart in 
 pleading with him for a blessing upon our class, and 
 I felt an assurance in my soul that my prayer should 
 be answered. But when I came to the class-room 
 door the accuser of the brethren met me with his 
 fiery darts, and for a moment shook my faith, and 
 caused me to weep and lament before the Lord for 
 
104 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 my unfaithfulness and want of a Christian spirit ; but 
 thanks to my adorable Master, who gave me to see 
 the devices of Satan, and to prove him a liar. Our 
 good and gracious God poured out his Spirit upon us 
 in such a manner as I have not seen in several years. 
 It came like a mighty shower, constraining every 
 heart to shout aloud for joy. My body was nearly 
 overpowered with the fullness of my soul. I was 
 called upon to conclude the meeting, but the spirit 
 of supplication was for a few moments withdrawn, 
 and love and joy overflowed every soul, and one 
 general gust of praise filled the room. 'Twas heaven, 
 begun oh earth. O ! glory to God and the Lamb 
 for this gracious visit ! 
 
 " Sablfath, 26. Blessed be God ! I still find love 
 is sweetly operating upon my heart, and subduing 
 evil desires, and bringing into captivity to the obe- 
 dience of Christ every thought of my heart. 
 
 " Sabbath, Feb. 1 7. This has been a feast-day to 
 my soul. At the table of the Lord I was fed with 
 manna from heaven, and abundantly refreshed with 
 the wine of the kingdom. Previous to administering 
 the ordinance, my dear companion preached from 
 Acts ii, 42, 'And they continued steadfastly in the 
 Apostles' doctrine, and in- fellowship, and in break- 
 ing of bread, and in prayers.' The Spirit of the Lord 
 attended the word with great power. For four hours 
 the windows of heaven seemed to be open, and 
 the saints sat under the droppings of the sanctuary 
 with great delight, while his banner over them was 
 love, 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 105 
 
 11 Sabbath, March 2. The language of my heart still 
 is, Glory to God in the highest ! I was privileged in 
 the morning, with hearing Brother Washburn from 
 Psalm xl, 123, 'I waited patiently for the Lord ; and 
 he inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought 
 me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, 
 anfl set my feet upon a rock, and established my go- 
 ings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, 
 even praise unto our God : many shall see it, and 
 fear, and shall trust in the Lord.' It seemed to be a 
 time of refreshing to the people of God ; but my soul 
 was listless and dull. I had my rest disturbed the 
 night previous with two of my children who were 
 slightly indisposed, and in consequence I felt heavy. 
 
 " My heart has been exceedingly pained, this day 
 in visiting the abodes of poverty and disease. In 
 the morning visited, in company with my husband, a 
 poor woman far gone in consumption. She lives in 
 a garret, scarcely sheltered from the elements, with 
 hardly covering or food sufficient to sustain the quiv- 
 ering spark of life, that must soon be extinguished 
 by the cold hand of death. She is without a com- 
 fortable evidence of her acceptance with God, but I 
 believe is seeking it, with a penitent and contrite 
 heart. From the Sabbath-school I went to visit a 
 distressed family in a cellar where we were informed 
 they were baling out water all day. A picture of 
 greater wretchedness I never saw, and more igno- 
 rance in spiritual things I never found. They were 
 given a Bible, some apparel and money, with some 
 suitable advice. May the good Lord, by his own 
 
106 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 Spirit enlighten their dark understandings ! A few 
 days since my duties in the Female Assistance Soci- 
 ety called me to visit the rich. Contrasting the 
 scenes of opulence, of folly, and of vanity, with the 
 sights of poverty and distress my eyes have beheld 
 this dfty, excites in my soul gratitude to Providence 
 for the middle path marked out for me. O Lord, 
 grant me neither poverty nor riches ! " 
 
 " Sabbath, yune 23. Heard Brother Ketchum 
 preach a searching sermon this morning. In the 
 afternoon heard ' my dear husband preach a funeral 
 sermon, occasioned by the death of Sister Jane W., 
 from 1 Thess. iv, 13 : 'But I would not have you to 
 be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are 
 asleep, that ye sorrow not even as others which 
 have no hope.' Three years ago, late one evening, 
 Mr. Mason was called to visit a young woman sup- 
 posed to be dying. He immediately went. It was 
 Jane. Three skillful physicians had withdrawn their 
 attendance, and gave her up to die. On inquiring 
 into her spiritual state he learned she once professed 
 religion, and belonged to class ; but gay company, 
 with other circumstances, had alienated her soul 
 from God, caused her to absent herself from class 
 and the means of grace, and she now was without 
 hope or any apparent concern about her soul. At 
 breakfast next morning Mr. M. mentioned her case 
 to a young physician who at the time resided with 
 us. He visited her, and prescribed for her com- 
 plaint. For several days the struggle between life 
 and death appeared very doubtful. Mr. M. visited 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 107 
 
 her daily, and it pleased the Lord to awaken her to a 
 sight of her awful situation. I called to see her one 
 day, when she was apparently dying, her room filled 
 with weeping friends, whom she was exhorting in the 
 intervals of her extreme pain not to put off the day 
 of repentance to a death-bed, as she had done. Her 
 agony of mind and body was indescribable. But it 
 pleased the Lord to disappoint death that time of his 
 prey. The prescriptions of her young ^physician, 
 whose indefatigable attention confined him to her 
 bedside almost continually, night an'd day, for a week, 
 were blessed to her recovery ; but her convictions for 
 sin and desires for salvation did not disappear with a 
 release from bodily suffering. On the contrary, they 
 strengthened and deepened with her prospects of re- 
 turning health. 
 
 " One evening while Mr. Mason was at prayer by 
 her bedside it pleased the Lord to remove the bur- 
 den of sin from her soul, and to fill her mouth with 
 praises. She was raised to health and active life 
 once more, and for a season apparently ran well in 
 the heavenly race. She united herself to Mr. Ma- 
 son's class, and by her walk gave evidence of the sin- 
 cerity of her Christian profession. After some time, 
 however, she appeared to slacken in attendance on 
 her Christian duties, and her mind became oppressed 
 with doubts and fears. On her class-leader's inquir- 
 ing the cause, she very candidly owned she had suf- 
 fered herself to be drawn from her steadfastness by 
 young company, and had grieved the Spirit of grace 
 by refusing to acknowledge the Lord in their pres- 
 

 
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112 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 Conference, Mr. Mason having served in the Book 
 Room eight years, was not returned. At the New 
 York Conference of that year he was appointed to 
 the Allen-street Church, to the parsonage of which 
 they removed. In November following, Mr. Mason's 
 health failing, and having also a great anxiety to see 
 his aged mother, he decided to take a trip to his na- 
 tive State to spend the winter. Rev. Stephen Olin, 
 being also in poor health, accompanied him, the jour- 
 ney being performed from New York to Charleston 
 on horseback. From Mr. Mason's journal (kept dur- 
 ing this journey) we find many interesting details of 
 how they were entertained at the houses of members 
 of the Society, how they visited Bishop George, how 
 they held meetings when they tarried over night, or 
 a day or two to rest. This winter was a time of sore 
 trial and affliction to Mrs. Mason, for sickness and 
 death invaded the household. Little Anna, not yet 
 three years of age, a child of lovely disposition, and 
 whose heart seemed bound up in heavenly things, was 
 taken suddenly ill with a disease which terminated 
 fatally in a few days. Deep sorrow to be borne with- 
 out the usual support of the husband. Well for her 
 she knew on whom to lean, her blessed Saviour, who 
 had never forsaken her in the hour of need. The 
 eldest child, Mary, who dearly loved her little sister 
 Anna, grieved most piteously at her death, passing 
 sleepless nights, and refusing to be comforted. In a 
 week's time she too was stricken by disease, which 
 brought her to death's door, requiring all the devotion 
 and energy of a mother's love for many weary weeks. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 1 1 3 
 
 In mercy, God spared this darling first-born to greet 
 her father on his return in the spring. 
 
 EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL. 
 
 " Tuesday, Feb. 1, 1825. This morning, at a quarter 
 past three o'clock, my lovely little Anna was recalled 
 by her heavenly Father. This, I think, was the keen- 
 est trial I ever was called to endure ; but, blessed be 
 the name of the Lord, I have found his grace more 
 than sufficient in this trying hour. She was dedicated 
 to the Lord before she was born. The day she was 
 seized with her death-sickness I had her with me to 
 meeting. When we returned she appeared the pic- 
 ture of health, and was uncommonly animated. But 
 in about an hour she complained of being sick, and 
 told me I must send for the doctor. I did not think 
 her very ill, and sent her to bed as usual. She soon 
 called me, and I found her very sick at her stomach. 
 I used some remedies, but she appeared to grow worse 
 through the night. Early the next morning I sent 
 for the doctor. For three or four days he thought her 
 disorder no more than a cold. But on the seventh 
 day there was but little hope of her recovery. The 
 disorder proved an inflammation of the lungs. My 
 mind was sorely exercised on the painful occasion. 
 Mr. Mason had been from home several months for 
 the benefit of his health. She was an uncommonly 
 pleasant and interesting child ; I did not know how 
 to give her up, though I had endeavored in a par- 
 ticular manner always to dedicate her to the Lord ; 
 yet now, with strong cries and tears, I besought him 
 
1 14 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 to spare her to me a little longer. I thought I had 
 faith to believe he would, and could not be persuaded, 
 until I closed her eyes in death, that she would not 
 recover. But then I could say, ' The Lord gave, and 
 the Lord hath taken away ; blessed be the name of 
 the Lord.' She was but two year's, nine months, and 
 three days old when she died. But though so young, 
 she took great delight in going to meeting, and when 
 at home, in holding meetings with her brother and sis- 
 ters, where she .would often pray. The third day of 
 her sickness, when leaning over her cradle, I saw her 
 moving her lips, and listening more closely, I heard 
 her repeat a part of the Lord's Prayer, after which 
 she said, ' God bless my dear father and mother, and 
 my little brother and sisters, and make me a good 
 child.' She often spoke of going to church, and of 
 the preachers, of Brother Sandford in particular, who 
 was the last one she heard preach. 
 
 "The Sabbath but one before her death she ap- 
 peared almost suffocated, but upon the application of 
 half a dozen leeches to her neck she was speedily 
 relieved. While the leeches were still on her neck 
 she heard the bell ring for Church, and looking up in 
 my face, said, ' Mother, 'tis Sabbath day, wont you 
 let me go with you to meeting ? r My mind was so 
 engaged about her that I had forgotten it was Sab- 
 bath morning until thus reminded of it. She spoke 
 much of her father, and would beg me sometimes to 
 get her ready to go to him. For two or three days 
 before her death a heavenly sweetness was manifested 
 in her disposition, her words, and her manners. She 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 115 
 
 would speak to me so affectionately and respectfully ; 
 and when in the last struggle, as I stood by her bedside 
 weeping, she turned her eyes and looked at me most 
 expressively, and then lifted them toward heaven, and 
 breathed her soul away from earth, without a struggle or 
 • a groan. Death was there, but in his mildest aspect." 
 
 ITINERANCY. 
 
 At the session of the New York Conference in 
 May, 1825, Mr. Mason was appointed to the " Croton 
 Circuit," whither the family soon removed, going up 
 to Croton in a sloop, and from thence twelve miles 
 in a country wagon to a small village, (now New 
 Castle,) where* the stewards of the circuit had as- 
 signed them a house. Here was the beginning of a 
 new experience to one who had never lived away 
 from the conveniences of a large town. The duties 
 of the circuit required the absence of the husband 
 two weeks at a time, thus leaving the wife to assume 
 most of the family cares. But little congenial society 
 was to be found, and withal the dwelling was com- 
 fortless and cheerless. During the winter, which 
 was very severe, it was with difficulty the family were 
 kept warm, notwithstanding Mrs. Mason pasted 
 " Advocates" over the walls to keep out the wind. 
 
 The handmaid of the Lord could not be idle. So 
 a few children were taken to be instructed in con- 
 nection with her own little girls ; and there are those 
 living who can testify to the teachings given in one 
 end of a room that served the- threefold purpose of 
 school-room, dining-room, and kitchen. A Sunday- 
 
n6 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 school was formed, where the mother took her little 
 ones to join with the children of the village in receiv- 
 ing Bible instruction from her lips. During their 
 residence here, the faithful friend of the family, Miss 
 Sickles, joined class, her sense of unworthiness hav- 
 ing deterred her from doing so before. The decided 
 stand taken by Mr. and Mrs. Mason on the temper- 
 ance question, especially in reproving members of 
 the Church engaged in the sale of liquors, brought 
 upon them a storm of persecution, which rendered 
 Mrs. Mason's situation during her husband's frequent 
 absence peculiarly trying. Duties, however, were 
 not left undone, and the good seed there sown was 
 not without fruit ; their most bitter persecutor years 
 after acknowledging (with hearty thanks for their 
 faithfulness) that his conscience never gave him 
 peace until he gave up the unholy traffic. The 
 spring of 1826 found the family tarrying at the 
 house of good Uncle John, in New York, where the 
 fifth child, Anna, (afterward the wife of J. M. Reid,) 
 was born. On the assembling of Conference Mr. 
 Mason was appointed to Newburgh Circuit, where he 
 remained as Pastor two years. The circuit com- 
 prised at that time seven appointmeftts : two on 
 the Sabbath, (three miles apart,) and five on week 
 days. Surely there was no time for idling here. A 
 very comfortable residence was assigned them in a 
 healthful location. Here, as elsewhere, Mrs. Mason 
 was ever found active in the Church, a helpmeet 
 indeed to her partner in his work. We find by refer- 
 ring to his journal that she accompanied him to dif- 
 
Life cf Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 117 
 
 ferent preaching places to assist in forming Sabbath- 
 schools. Class-meeting was held regularly at the 
 parsonage ; and in after years precious testimony of 
 her zeal was given by those with whom she earnestly 
 labored and prayed for the salvation of their souls. 
 The Presiding Elder of the District was the honest 
 and firm Daniel Ostrander, with whom " Sister 
 Mary " was a favorite. Here, too, the venerable 
 Bishop George was wont occasionally to rest in his 
 wearisome journeys. " Sister Mary's " skillful hands 
 repaired and cleansed his well-worn gray coat, which 
 he familiarly called his " dust-bag." During one of 
 these visits, taking one of the little girls by his side, he 
 asked, " Can you write ? " " A little," was the reply. 
 The Bishop then, in a plain hand, wrote the following 
 lines, to be copied and shown him on his next visit : 
 
 " What boys and girls in Germany delight to make, 
 Boys and girls in America delight to break." 
 
 The little fingers worked diligently over this moral 
 lesson, anxious to meet the approval of the venerable 
 Bishop. After the lapse of many weeks the well- 
 known horse and rider stopped at the door, when 
 the first salutation was, " Have you written the copy 
 I gave you ? " Dear old saint ! what an impression 
 his kindly words and venerable looks left on the 
 minds of the children. The interest Mr. and Mrs. 
 Mason felt in the missionary cause received a fresh 
 impetus by a visit from Rev. James B. Finley, with 
 the Indian chiefs " Mononcue " and the venerable 
 " Between-the-Logs." They remained several days, 
 holding meetings, relating their experience, etc., from 
 
n8 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 thence continuing their journey to New York, to 
 attend the missionary meeting. 
 
 Mrs. Mason still continued to take an interest in 
 the Female Assistance Society ; and though absent 
 from the city, she frequently wrote the annual 
 reports. We give below one of these which we 
 find in her handwriting : 
 
 TWELFTH REPORT OF FEMALE ASSISTANCE SOCIETY. 
 
 " In tracing the march o£ Christianity through the 
 world, it may be observed that wherever she plants 
 the standard of the cross she rallies around it asso- 
 ciations for the amelioration of human suffering, as 
 well as for the dissemination of divine light and 
 truth ; ever proclaiming on her way, Pure religion 
 is, to visit the fatherless and the widow in their 
 affliction, and to keep unspotted from the world.' 
 And it is a fact, which cannot have escaped the 
 notice of the historian, that no such institution ever 
 existed, however refined by human learning or ex- 
 alted by human grandeur society may have been, 
 where the Gospel had not previously shed its benign 
 and saving influence. And perhaps there is no 
 better criterion whereby to judge of the religious 
 state of a community than the attention paid to the in- 
 struction and relief of its poor. This, is one, proposed 
 by our Divine Master himself, in that memorable 
 description of the last judgment contained in the 
 twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew, wherein he shows 
 that, not according to men's professions, but accord- 
 ing to their works, shall they be judged. Among 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 119 
 
 institutions of this description, which have long been 
 the glory of our favored city, the New York Female 
 Assistance Society has stood for the last twelve years, 
 if not one of the most conspicuous, we believe not 
 the least in usefulness, or the least approved by a 
 Divine Providence. This Society carries in its 
 design the moral improvement, spiritual instruction, 
 and temporal relief of the necessitous sick poor. 
 
 " The season having again arrived when it becorfies 
 the duty of the managers of this institution to exhibit 
 to its members and patrons a statement of its receipts 
 and disbursements for the past year, they perform 
 the task with mingled emotions. Very gratefully 
 
 they acknowledge the receipts of the sum of 
 
 which they have faithfully appropriated to the relief 
 
 of individuals. Your managers have, by personal 
 
 visits to the abodes of disease and indigence, 
 endeavored to ascertain the just claim of every 
 individual upon the funds of your Society, carefully 
 guarding against affording aid to idleness and intem- 
 perance. They have not failed to endeavor to im- 
 press the mind of the applicant with the necessity 
 of industry, economy, and upright conduct, but above 
 all, with the importance of vital piety. And humbly 
 trusting in the ' Lord, who giveth the increase,' 
 they hope the seed thus sown shall not be found 
 unproductive in the great and general harvest. Of the 
 number thus visited, some have passed the bourne 
 whence no traveler returns. To the most of these 
 your managers have reason to believe to die was 
 gain. 
 
120 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " But while your managers thus recount the encour- 
 agement with which they have been favored in the 
 year just closed, they cannot restrain the tear of sen- 
 sibility on the reflection that some of the resources 
 for them opened by a superintending Providence are 
 now closed forever ; that hands which once liberally 
 contributed to the support of this institution are now 
 grasped by the cold hand of death, and tongues which 
 were lately eloquent in pleading the cause of the poor 
 now lie silent in the grave. Romeyn, Summerfield, 
 and several others, whose lips once pleaded the cause 
 of Christian charity, have been removed from their 
 posts on the walls of Zion, and from argument and 
 importunity in the cause of suffering humanity, have 
 been called to their everlasting reward in the joy of 
 their Lord. Such reflections would paralyze the ex- 
 ertions of your Board if they had not learned by ex- 
 perience to trust in Him who hath the hearts of all 
 men in his keeping, and once more committing their 
 cause into his hands, they take courage and go on." 
 
 EXTRACT FROM JOURNAL. 
 
 " Christmas day y 1 827. Awoke this morning under 
 a sense of the goodness and mercy of God in sending 
 his Son into the world as a sacrifice for sin ; and 
 though more than eighteen hundred years have re- 
 volved since the advent of his entrance into our 
 world, the circumstances of his birth, with the proph- 
 ecies foretelling them, are still kept in remembrance 
 in the minds of his people by the providence of God, 
 who has not suffered, through all the revolutions of 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 121 
 
 ages and nations, all the persecutions of his Church, 
 and all the machinations of evil men and devils, the 
 history of Jesus to be lost or obliterated. The same 
 glad tidings that gladdened the hearts of the aston- 
 ished shepherds on the plains of Judea encourage 
 and gladden ours in this remote age and place. 
 ' Glory to God in the highest ! ' 
 
 " This has been a good day to my soul. The babe 
 of Bethlehem was present to bless and encourage his 
 people in our love-feast in the morning, and at preach- 
 ing at eleven o'clock. 
 
 " April 3, 1828. Since the last record in my jour- 
 nal I have had sore contests with the adversary of 
 souls. Sometimes it seemed as though ' he would 
 have me to sift me as wheat/ but I believe Jesus 
 prayed, or made intercession for me, so that with 
 every temptation a way was made for my escape. 
 Thanks be to God for victory ! 
 
 " We have been this day honored with the com- 
 pany of Elder Case and two Indian converts from 
 the Chippeway tribe, among the Mohawks. A great 
 door, and effectual, is opened here for the preaching 
 of the Gospel. The red man listens with attention, 
 and readily embraces the truth as it is in Jesus. 
 Some hundreds in this place have been converted, 
 and whole tribes have thrown aside the implements 
 of warfare to embrace the cross of Christ, and in re- 
 ligious constancy appear more steadfast than civilized 
 professors. It is a very rare thing to find an Indian 
 backslider. 
 
 " Sabbath, April 6, 1828. Attended preaching twice 
 
122 Life of Mrs. Mary W.Mason. 
 
 this day. In the morning felt dull and listless under 
 the word. In the afternoon felt somewhat revived 
 under the preaching of my dear companion from 
 Isaiah lii, 1-4. He appeared to enjoy liberty in his 
 own soul, and I hope the word was attended with 
 power to some hearts. My own was strengthened 
 and comforted. 
 
 "May 1, 1828. My soul still labors with oppress- 
 ive care. A series of trials and temptations have 
 weighed my spirit down, and I am often constrained 
 to cry out, under sore conflicts with the enemy of my 
 soul, ' Lord, undertake for me.' I often fear I shall 
 <3ne day fall by the hand of my enemy. The past 
 winter has been the most trying and discouraging 
 season my soul has witnessed for a number of years. 
 The state of 'the Church in this place weighs much 
 upon my spirits. Lord, help ! 
 
 " June 1, 1828. My heavenly Father has, as usual, 
 been much better to me than my fears. He has 
 blessed us with another little daughter, born the 25th 
 of May. ' My soul doth magnify the Lord, and joy 
 in the God of my salvation.' Glory to his holy name 
 for grace sufficient for our day ! 
 
 " yune 3, 1828. This day the New York Confer- 
 ence sits. A great change will probably be made in 
 our situation, our appointed time having elapsed in 
 this delightful station. Here we have passed two 
 years. The Lord has been pleased to own the la- 
 bors of my husband, and added about fifty to the 
 Society. Believers have been much quickened, and 
 backsliders -in heart much stirred up ; but it was 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Maso?i. 123 
 
 needful to lop off some dead branches, which have 
 long had a name to live while they were dead. In 
 doing this some party feeling was excited, but the 
 Spirit of the Lord, has hushed it into a calm. To 
 him be all the glory ! " 
 
 RESIDENCE IN TROY. 
 
 In the latter part of June, 1828, Mr. Mason was 
 appointed Presiding Elder of Troy District. At that 
 time the district was large, extending from Hudson, 
 on the Hudson, to the Green Mountains, a distance 
 of one hundred miles, the appointments being in sev- 
 eral States. Here again was a strong trial of faith. 
 An extract from her journal will show Mrs. Mason's 
 feelings at this time. 
 
 " July 1, 1828. I learn this day we are appointed 
 to Troy District. I have promised the Lord I will 
 not murmur, send us where he will ; but my heart is 
 affected at the prospect now before me. To remove 
 so far with so young a babe ; so far from my relations 
 and friends, among entire strangers. To have my 
 husband away more than three fourths of his time, 
 with the prospect of so much labor and fatigue wear- 
 ing upon his health, which is not very good. These 
 things trouble me ; but I think I can say, Not my will, 
 but thine, O Lord, be done. 
 
 " July 15. Safely arrived in Troy, I raise 'mine 
 Ebenezer and say, ' Hitherto hath the Lord helped.' 
 Amid hardships, fatigue, discouragements, and severe 
 trials of mind, I have not been shaken from my stead- 
 fastness, nor suffered my heart to distrust the good- 
 
1 24 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 ness of my heavenly Father, whom I know eareth for 
 me. My prayer has been, Lord, send us where thou 
 wilt, but do thou be with us. My own health has 
 suffered, and my babe's, by exposure and fatigue. 
 
 " September 28, 1828. This has been a good day to 
 my soul. It is the second quarterly meeting we have 
 enjoyed in this new station. My soul was greatlv 
 blessed in the morning in the love-feast ;• I could say, 
 1 I had sweet hopes of glory in my soul.' In the after- 
 noon we offered our dear little babe to the Lord in 
 the ordinance of baptism, at the altar of the Lord's 
 house. I endeavored to offer her to the Lord on the 
 altar of my heart, promising I never would make an 
 idol of her, but endeavor to bring her up in the nurture 
 and admonition of the Lord. We called her, after Mr, 
 Wesley's mother, Susanna Wesley. In the evening 
 my dear husband called upon sinners to repent, and 
 believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, that they might be 
 saved. Some wept, but who believed the report we 
 know not now ; but I trust the word was not altogether 
 in vain. 
 
 "This day we attended the funeral of my dear sister, 
 Elizabeth Arthur. She was my oldest sister, in the 
 twenty-seventh year of her age. She died in perfect 
 recollection of mind, and we trust in resignation to 
 the will of God. 
 
 .ember 21. Reflecting on the many mercies of 
 my heavenly Father toward me, and the recent admo- 
 nition I have received in the death of my dear sister, 
 I mourn over the littleness of my faith, and the 
 slowness of my progress in the race set before me. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 125 
 
 "Christmas, 1828. Precious Jesus ! reveal thyself 
 in my heart this day as the babe of Bethlehem. Spent 
 the most of the day in holy exercises in the house of 
 God. In the afternoon met our Sunday-school to 
 exercise in singing." 
 
 During the winter of this year, Miss Barnes, of 
 Rice Lake Mission, Canada, visited Troy. She was 
 . accompanied by four Indian boys and two girls. Part 
 of these put up with Mrs. Mason, who took great 
 interest in the progress of the Gospel among this 
 injured race. Some of these boys have since become 
 preachers, and distinguished among their people. 
 The latter part of the Conference year sore family afflic- 
 tions visited the circle. Another infant was taken to 
 the bosom of the Saviour. Again, too, was the eldest 
 daughter prostrated by violent disease, and the father 
 absent at the extremity of the district, and the roads 
 almost impassable from snow-drifts. Prayer was the 
 mother's only refuge ; and, according to promise, God 
 delivered her. Her own account of these trials and 
 deliverances will be of interest here. 
 
 " January 1, 1829. I feel thankful that I am per- 
 mitted to see this new year. O how precious time 
 now appears ! Had I back the hours I spent in the 
 ball-room, or in as trifling a manner, how should I 
 endeavor to improve them ! May those still allotted 
 to me on earth be strictly improved for eternity. 
 
 " * O may I live each short revolving day, 
 As though it were my last ! ' 
 
 " We have had an exhibition of our Sunday-school 
 to-day, the first ever held in this place. It was a very ■ 
 
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130 Life of Mrs. Mary W.- Mason. 
 
 fliction and sickness the last year. We have dedi- 
 cated this house and ourselves anew to God in family 
 prayer this evening. May we be enabled to keep 
 the covenant we have just entered into in this place. 
 I have added to my domestic cares two dear little 
 girls, whose mother died soon after we came to this 
 place. May I be enabled to discharge the part of a 
 mother toward them ! 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM MRS. MASON'S DIARY. 
 
 " Sabbath, Feb. 19, 1832. I am happy in the love of 
 God this evening, though, through bodily infirmities, 
 unable to bear the fatigue of attending the house of 
 God more than once on the Sabbath. I have never 
 enjoyed more uninterrupted peace and communion 
 with God than during the last year, and what is past 
 of this. The Lord has been very merciful to our 
 family. He has converted our two oldest daughters, 
 who are both members of the Church, and, I trust, 
 will be useful members of society. My cares and 
 labors have been great for a year or two past. In 
 addition to the care of my own five children, I have 
 had two or three young lady boarders, and a school 
 of about forty scholars. But notwithstanding my ex- 
 cessive labors, my bodily health has been very good, 
 and my spiritual prosperity and that of my family 
 abundant. The Lord has blessed my day-school so 
 that nearly all my pupils of a suitable age have made 
 a profession of religion. In the Sabbath-school which 
 I superintend the Lord has been at work in a very 
 powerful manner. Every teacher and librarian have 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 131 
 
 been converted, and more than a score of the chil- 
 dren. Truly the Lord is good to them who call upon 
 him. 
 
 " We have lately been favored with a gracious re- 
 vival in our Church ; about two hundred have been 
 added within the last three months, and the work 
 still goes on. Ride on, thou conquering Lord, until 
 the world is filled with thy glory ! 
 
 "Sabbath, March 10, 1832. Through divine mercy 
 I have been permitted to attend the Sabbath-school 
 this morning. We had a very solemn and interest- 
 ing time. One of our scholars, a little boy about 
 eight years of age, was drowned yesterday in cross- 
 ing the river on the ice. He was with us at school 
 last Sabbath, to-day he rests in a watery grave, hav- 
 ing not yet been found. Solemn warning to be in 
 constant readiness for death. Heard Brother Strat- 
 ten preach from Heb. iv, 9-1 1, 'There remaineth 
 therefore a rest/ etc. Lord, help me to labor to enter 
 into that rest. After preaching attended my class. 
 It was a refreshing season ; several had sweet antici- 
 pations of entering into that rest. How different my 
 feelings about class meetings now to what they were 
 some years ago when I was cold in religion. Class- 
 meeting then was a great cross, and the enemy per- 
 suaded me it was not my duty to attend them ; but 
 in yielding to this temptation I found I was losing 
 ground in religion, and I was further tempted to neg- 
 lect my stated seasons of private prayer and other 
 means of grace until I well nigh made shipwreck of 
 faith, and lost my religious enjoyment. By the Spirit 
 
132 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 of God I was enabled to see the delusion of the ad- 
 versary, and solemnly promised the Lord if he would 
 restore to me the light of his reconciled countenance 
 and the joy of his salvation I would take up every 
 cross, however heavy it might appear, and by his 
 grace assisting me, I have been enabled to keep this 
 promise. 
 
 "April 15, 1832. My soul is still comfortably 
 stayed upon God. Though prevented from attending 
 the public means of grace, the Lord condescends to 
 meet with my soul at home. My mind is delivered 
 from painful anxiety, and I feel a sweet spirit of re- 
 signation enabling me to say, ' The will of the Lord 
 be done.' 
 
 ' My God, I am thine ; what a comfort divine, 
 What a blessing to know that my Jesus is mine! 
 My Redeemer to know, to feel his blood flow, 
 This is life everlasting — 'tis heaven below.' " 
 
 At different times during her residence here, several 
 young ladies were inmates of her family, she always 
 keeping a watchful care over their interests. These, 
 with her own children, were led to the Sabbath- 
 school, in which she took an active part ; the 
 teachers' meetings, and children's class and prayer- 
 meetings being frequently held in her school-room. 
 Strength of body and energy of mind seemed to be 
 given her for this enlarged field of usefulness. Her 
 faithful friend and helper, Miss S., lightened many 
 a care, and promoted by every means in her power 
 the interests of the family and school. Mrs. Mason's 
 house was the stopping place for the preachers of 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary H~ Mason. 
 
 the district, for whom she ever had a word of en- 
 couragement and cheer will I forget," said 
 the wife of an itinerant, " one occasion when wearied 
 with our journey and the care of a sick babe she 
 welcomed us, kindly insisting on my retiring to 
 while she soothed my worrisome child." 
 
 rs after, the wife of another preacher re- 
 ferred with gratitude "to her lessons in thrift and 
 economy, her contrivances for neatness and order 
 :r ~ sArAer rr.r-ins /.::>. :: rir siii :he r.irz ;-::r 
 "as the wife of a young preacher were invaluable," 
 The cares of the school and family did not prevent 
 
 ::" ztr.rv ilenre A Ar,r irA r. : . -. ::>".-.::-._: A::Ai; - 
 school was under her superintendence, in which she 
 was ever ready to co-operate with the male super- 
 intendent, Mr. Charles Lane, a man of fcoly zeal 
 and uncommon loveliness of Christian character. 
 Under the blessing of God and their united labors a 
 glorious revival broke out in the Sunday-school; a 
 children's class was formed, of which - >n's 
 
 two daughters, aged eleven and nine, were mem: as 
 and which, led by Mr. Lane, was frequently held 
 in Mrs. Mason's school-room. In this Sunday-school 
 -trained some who are now ministers of the 
 Gospel, and many who have entered into a blissful 
 immortality-. To the stationed ministe ison 
 
 was a valued assistant. The genial Rev. Samuel 
 •in and his k njoyed her society, also 
 
 that apostolic man, Rev. J. B. Stratten. The accom- 
 plished and precise Rev. J. C. Tackaberry. when en- 
 
132 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 of God I was enabled to see the delusion of the ad- 
 versary, and solemnly promised the Lord if he would 
 restore to me the light of his reconciled countenance 
 and the joy of his salvation I would take up every 
 cross, however heavy it might appear, and by his 
 grace assisting me, I have been enabled to keep this 
 promise. 
 
 "April 15, 1832. My soul is still comfortably 
 stayed upon God. Though prevented from attending 
 the public means of grace, the Lord condescends to 
 meet with my soul at home. My mind is delivered 
 from painful anxiety, and I feel a sweet spirit of re- 
 signation enabling me to say, ' The will of the Lord 
 be done.' 
 
 ' My God, I am thine ; what a comfort divine, 
 What a blessing to know that my Jesus is mine! 
 My Redeemer to know, to feel his blood flow, 
 This is life everlasting — 'tis heaven below.' " 
 
 At different times during her residence here, several 
 young ladies were inmates of her family, she always 
 keeping a watchful care over their interests. These, 
 with her own children, were led to the Sabbath- 
 school, in which she took an active part ; the 
 teachers' meetings, and children's class and prayer- 
 meetings being frequently held in her school-room. 
 Strength of body and energy of mind seemed to be 
 given her for this enlarged field of usefulness. Her 
 faithful friend and helper, Miss S., lightened many 
 a care, and promoted by every means in her power 
 the interests of the family and school. Mrs. Mason's 
 house was the stopping place for the preachers of 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 133 
 
 the district, for whom she ever had a word of en- 
 couragement and cheer. " Never will I forget," said 
 the wife of an itinerant, " one occasion when wearied 
 with our journey and the care of a sick babe she 
 welcomed us, kindly insisting on my retiring to rest 
 while she soothed my worrisome child." 
 
 Many years after, the wife of another preacher re- 
 - ferred with gratitude " to her lessons in thrift and 
 economy, her contrivances for neatness and order 
 from slender means, which, to me," said the narrator, 
 " as the wife of a young preacher were invaluable." 
 The cares of the school and family did not prevent 
 Mrs. Mason from engaging in her favorite schemes 
 of benevolence. A large and flourishing Sunday- 
 school was under her superintendence, in which she 
 was ever ready to co-operate with the male super- 
 intendent, Mr. Charles Lane, a man of froly zeal 
 and uncommon loveliness of Christian character. 
 Under the blessing of God and their united labors a 
 glorious revival broke out in the Sunday-school ; a 
 children's class was formed, of which Mrs. Mason's 
 two daughters, aged eleven and nine, were members, 
 and which, led by Mr. Lane, was frequently held 
 in Mrs. Mason's school-room. In this Sunday-school 
 were -trained some who are now ministers of the 
 Gospel, and many who have entered into a blissful 
 immortality. To the stationed ministers Mrs. Mason 
 was a valued assistant. The genial Rev. Samuel 
 Merwin and his lovely wife enjoyed her society, also 
 that apostolic man, Rev. J. B. Stratten. The accom- 
 plished and precise Rev. J. C. Tackaberry, when en- 
 
134 Lif<- of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 teririg Upon bis ministry Lxi a strange land, received 
 from her an [rish welcome, with motherly kindni 
 and counsel, [n Troy the first Juvenile Missionary 
 Society, auxiliary to the parent society, was formed 
 
 in [83O. In this Mr. and Mrs. Mason look an active 
 
 part, writing the constitution, attending monthly 
 meetings, and endeavoring to interesl the young in 
 the cause of missions. Mrs, Mason's deai friend be- 
 fore referred to, Miss Eliza Verplanck, frequently 
 visited her on her way to and from Canada, where 
 ■lie often spent months a1 a time among the tndian 
 Missions, assisting by her presence and ample means 
 
 those dovolod missionaries, Rev. William Case and 
 wife. 
 
 On the occasion of one of these visils, Miss Ver- 
 
 planck, after looking intently for some time al the 
 
 well worn carpet of the sitting room, said, "Sister 
 
 Mason, this carpel has done the Church good service. 
 
 I think the Church owes you another, and I will send 
 you one when I retuin home." Which promise she 
 faithfully kept. The deeds of kindness and love be- 
 stowed by this excellent lady upon the needy, and 
 
 especially upon the Lord's poor, are recorded on 
 high, in the goodness of her hearl she adopted, and 
 
 with untiring assiduity trained up, several children, 
 among whom was " Lila," whose amiability and love- 
 
 liness <>i < hara< ter will long be remembered by the 
 
 friends of Mrs. Mason's family, where she was ever a 
 
 welcome visitor. Miss Verplanck lived to an ad- 
 vanced age, and died at her country seat near Rond- 
 OUl on the I I ud son. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary //'. Mason. 135 
 
 In [830 the soond son was bom. The day-sctibol 
 was continued, and frequently one or more pupil 1 , 
 boarded in the family. Pari of the time an adull 
 evening Bible (lass was held in the school-room, and 
 for years a female prayer-meeting. Though death 
 removed one from the circle, a son in 1830 and a 
 d, in-liter in [832 were added. Thus, though from 
 
 .toil, care, and sickness not exempt, those were years 
 
 of corresponding usefulness. Truly it could be said 
 
 that the Lord was better to his handmaid than her 
 
 fears, (<>v, contrary to her expectation, her husband's 
 health greatly improved, and her own efforts for the 
 
 good of Others were crowned with abundant success. 
 
136 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 REMOVAL TO NEW YORK. 
 
 Removal to New York, 1832 — Cholera— Greene-street — Appeal for 
 the Publishing Fund — School — Burning of Book Room — Interest 
 in Youth — Greene-street — Female Benevolent Society — Death of 
 Daughter Mary — Letters to Mrs. Wilkins. 
 
 The time of General Conference (1832) had arrived, 
 and with it came change. Mr. Mason was, for the 
 third time, elected Book Agent, thus necessitating a 
 removal to New York. Strong attachments had 
 grown up between teacher and pupils ; nor were the 
 relations between Mr. and Mrs. Mason and the 
 Christians of Troy less intimate, but at the call of 
 the Church these were to be severed. Preparations 
 for removal were made, and June found the family 
 settled in Crosby-street, New York, not far from the 
 Book Concern, which was then in Crosby-street, be- 
 tween Howard and Grand. The excessively hot 
 weather, and the almost immediate breaking out of 
 that awful scourge, the "cholera," filled the whole 
 family with alarm, and the mother especially with 
 anxiety for the safety of her dear ones, so* recently 
 removed from the healthful atmosphere of Troy to 
 the contracted premises of the city, which was dense- 
 ly populated in the immediate vicinity of their dwell- 
 ing. On the 5th of July Mr. Mason was prostrated 
 with the cholera. Prompt medical treatment and 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 137 
 
 careful nursing, under the blessing of Providence, re- 
 stored him. The nightly and daily horrors of the 
 ensuing six or eight weeks can only be described by 
 those who were eye-witnesses of the fearful scenes. 
 A hospital being near, many times a day the family 
 witnessed the unhappy victims borne by, or heard 
 the rumbling of the load of pine coffins, piled up like 
 .packing boxes. Business was almost entirely sus- 
 pended ; few ventured into the streets ; thousands 
 fled to the country, many to be there stricken down, 
 thus spreading terror and death around them. At 
 length the fearful disease culminated, and a hundred 
 died in a day. Circumstances compelled the family 
 to remain in the city ; but a careful attention to diet 
 and vigilant watching, through the mercy of God, 
 brought them safely through this fearful ordeal. 
 
 On their arrival in the city the family joined 
 Greene-street Church, of which, at that time, Rev. 
 P. P. Sandford was Pastor. In the fall of this year 
 Mrs. Mason, being anxious for the education of her 
 children, opened a small school, which she taught 
 through the winter. Associations with old friends 
 were renewed, and she was welcomed by them to the 
 various benevolent enterprises in which she had 
 been wont to labor. A female prayer-meeting was 
 held in her school-room on Monday evenings, where 
 mothers, though weary with labor, found physical as 
 well as spiritual relief in prayer. A special object of 
 these meetings was prayer for the families of these 
 wives and mothers. In 1833 the family removed to 
 Spring-street, near Greene, where, the school was 
 
138- Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 reopened, and where for the three following years, it 
 prospered, sometimes numbering as many as forty 
 pupils. The same method of religious instruction 
 combined with that given to develop the mental fac- 
 ulties was pursued. Mrs. Mason had a happy man- 
 ner of making some studies attractive which are 
 usually considered by children dull and irksome. It 
 was especially so with grammar, which by her method 
 of instruction was far from uninteresting. She en- 
 deavored to cultivate the taste of her pupils by in- 
 citing in them a love for solid reading, frequently 
 quoting from her favorite authors, and pointing out 
 the beauties of this or that poet. Mrs. Mason en- 
 gaged in the Greene-street Sunday-school as' Female 
 Superintendent, where she labored for many years. 
 Both teachers and scholars will remember her un- 
 abated interest in all departments of the work, from 
 the tiniest infant scholar to the oldest member of the 
 " Youth's Class." For years she sat in the gallery 
 with the school, denying herself for others. Cases 
 of touching interest could be mentioned of her faith- 
 ful admonitions and fervent prayers. 
 
 In one instance a young girl whose conduct in the 
 school was not only disorderly, but positively so wicked 
 as to render her example pernicious, was expelled, 
 after many faithful admonitions and fervent prayers 
 in her behalf. Finally, to save her from utter ruin, 
 she was placed in the " House of Refuge." Several 
 years after, Mrs. Mason received a letter from her 
 far off home in the West, acknowledging most hum- 
 bly her former wickedness, and thanking Mrs. Mason 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 139 
 
 for her faithful labors for the good of her soul, 
 saying that she had never forgotten them. God 
 in his mercy had arrested her in a career of folly, 
 and the lion had become a lamb. Faithful Sabbath- 
 school laborer, never despair ! Take courage ! Cast 
 thy bread upon the waters, and it shall return after 
 many days. Mr. and Mrs. Mason, as in Troy, took 
 means to form a Juvenile Missionary Society, which 
 was entered into with interest by the youth of the 
 Church. In this society was commenced the training 
 of some of those who since have become distinguished 
 for their zeal and energy in the cause of Christ. Mrs. 
 Mason was ever ready to second the efforts of the 
 pastors in their Bible Classes, prayer-meetings, etc. 
 For years a member of the pastor's class, a faithful 
 attendance was noted, and often in his absence would 
 she be called on to lead the devotional exercises. 
 During seasons of revival she took special interest in 
 the young, affectionately warning or exhorting them, 
 or giving a word of encouragement to those who went 
 forward for prayers. A new member of the congre- 
 gation (especially if of humble exterior) would be sure 
 to secure her notice. 
 
 The following letter, published in the " Christian 
 Advocate," will show the deep interest Mrs. Mason 
 took in the education of the young, and her desire to 
 have good and useful books circulated : 
 
 " New York, Oct. 1, 1832. 
 
 " Messrs. Editors : Moved by your late earnest 
 appeal to the members of the Methodist Episcopal 
 
140 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 Church on the subject of the Publishing Fund, I here- 
 with inclose you ten dollars, which is the second re- 
 mittance from the family of a traveling preacher, to 
 purchase shares in that valuable stock. I consider it 
 a valuable stock, because it affords the fairest prospect 
 of yielding an abundant increase of good, not only to 
 the present generation, but to generations yet unborn. 
 I have observed with regret the apathy of the Church 
 on this important subject, and should have concluded 
 it proceeded from lack of information, had not your 
 late address afforded sufficient arguments to convince 
 every rational mind of the necessity, expediency, and 
 utility of such an institution. And I now cannot but 
 believe, if the children of God were as wise in their 
 generation as the children of Mammon, or had they 
 as much faith in that treasury ' where neither moth 
 nor rust doth corrupt,' and where thieves cannot break 
 through nor steal, as the men of the world have in their 
 moneyed institutions, your Publishing Fund would 
 soon be made up, and the Church be provided with 
 this most efficient means of propagating the Gospel of 
 God our Saviour in its various institutions. For I 
 consider the Publishing Fund as concentrating the 
 common interests of the Bible, Tract, Sunday-school, 
 and Missionary Societies. It therefore has a most 
 undeniable claim upon Christian benevolence, and in 
 its success parents, friends of Sunday-schools, tract 
 distributors, and preachers should be peculiarly in- 
 terested. Does the anxious parent wish for aid in the 
 
 11 Delightful task, to rear the tender thought, 
 And teach the young idea how to shoot ? " 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 141 
 
 " the ^Publishing Fund proposes to furnish lessons of 
 instruction suited to every capacity. Do the friends 
 of Sunday-schools seek for material to prosecute their 
 1 labor of love ? ' The Publishing Fund promises to 
 supply them with the greatest facility and at the 
 cheapest rate. Does the humble Christian believe it to 
 be his duty to encourage virtue and reprove vice ? This 
 institution furnishes the appropriate language in the 
 form of a tract, which may be as ' apples of gold in 
 pictures of silver.' And here shall the faithful mis- 
 sionary who penetrates the forests, visits the waste 
 and solitary places, or braves the dangers of the 
 perilous deep in search of the lost sheep of the house 
 of Israel, derive the needful supply of the Holy Scrip- 
 tures in the varied form and language which the exi- 
 gencies of his flock may require in his diversified 
 field of labor. From this source shall the young 
 Christian obtain treasures of useful knowledge which 
 shall make him wise unto salvation, and strong to 
 resist all the sophistry of infidelity. In short, give 
 the great moral lever the right impetus, and the whole 
 machinery of Christian enterprise within the Church 
 will simultaneously and successfully move forward in 
 the various departments designed by Christian wisdom 
 and benevolence. After perusing your plain state- 
 ment of the origin, plan, and benefits of the Publishing 
 Fund as given in No. 313 of your paper, I cannot con- 
 ceive how any lover of the Lord Jesus, to whom God 
 has given the ability, can- withhold his contribution 
 to this treasury. True, many of our traveling preach- 
 ers have, of their penury, contributed to the utmost 
 
142 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 of their ability ; but how few rich have as yet given 
 of their abundance. And I would humbly inquire of 
 our sisters, if their Christian benevolence in this cause 
 merits Divine approbation as did that of the poor widow, 
 who cast her two mites into the treasury of the temple, 
 ' She hath cast in more than they all.' Would not 
 more economy in personal expenses enable them to 
 do more for the cause of Christ ? Try. And now, 
 my dear brethren, with an apology for the length and 
 freedom of these remarks, and a sincere prayer that 
 the desire of your hearts may be gratified in seeing 
 the remainder of the one hundred thousand dollars 
 speedily made up, 
 
 " I remain yours in the bonds of the gospel, M — Y." 
 
 In 1835 a third son was added to the family. 
 During 1836 Mr. and Mrs. Mason, from their united 
 savings erected a house in Second-street, near the 
 Bowery, then considered far up town, above it being 
 nearly all vacant lots. To this commodious dwelling 
 the family removed in the fall, and here the school 
 was re-ppened with increased facilities, Mrs. Mason 
 ever keeping in view the education of her own 
 children. Already had the two elder daughters com- 
 menced teaching, at the same time pursuing their 
 studies. At the General Conference of 1836 Mr. 
 Mason was returned to the Book Agency, the Book 
 Room having been removed to its new buildings in 
 Mulberry-street, there having been a large addition 
 to its manufacturing department. The winter was 
 one of unusual severity, and in December occurred 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 143 
 
 that most memorable and disastrous fire, which con- 
 sumed ft large portion of the business part of the city. 
 In February, 1837, the family were aroused at night 
 by the alarming intelligence that the " Book Room" 
 was on fire ! Too true ! To the whole family this 
 was a sad sight ; but in the good Providence of God 
 no lives were lost, though much inconvenience was 
 experienced, and but few books^were saved. An inci- 
 dent connected with the fire excited much interest at 
 the time. A gentleman residing on Long Island 
 found in his yard the morning after the fire a charred 
 piece of paper on which was legible only these words : 
 " Our holy and our beautiful house, where our fathers 
 praised thee, is burned up with fire, and all our pleasant 
 things are laid waste." Isa. lxiv, 1 1. He remarked to 
 his family that either the Bible House or the Method- 
 ist Book Room must have been burned. Accordingly 
 he came to the city the next day and found his con- 
 jecture true, when he exhibited the scorched paper 
 to the friends of the Book Room. 
 
 During the winter of 1838 Mrs. Mason, and some 
 other sisters of Greene-street Methodist Episcopal 
 Church, seeing the destitution among the poor of the 
 Church and Sunday-school, formed themselves into 
 a society for their relief. It was called the " Female 
 Benevolent Society." Mrs. Mason was chosen di- 
 rectress, and for more than twenty years took a 
 lively interest in its plans, which soon reached be- 
 yond the limits of the immediate church. The deep 
 interest she took in the welfare, temporal and spirit- 
 ual, of the poor will long be remembered by those 
 
144 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 who were associated with her in this very efficient 
 and useful society . • 
 
 While enjoying the pure country air for a season 
 with her children Mrs. Mason writes thus to Mr. 
 Mason : 
 
 " Middle Hope, N. Y., Aug. 1836. 
 " I was yesterday a* a good, plain, female prayer- 
 meeting. I found it good to be there. I could not 
 help thinking while there, if all our sisters throughout 
 the connection, should unite themselves in such meet- 
 ings we should have a gracious revival of the work 
 of God among us. We should see the spirit of pure 
 and undefiled religion diffuse itself in the family cir- 
 cle, and the children would be reared in the nurture 
 and admonition of the Lord. I know not that I 
 should be wrong in saying that most revivals of re- 
 ligion, from the holy women who followed and minis- 
 tered to Jesus to the present day, commenced among 
 females. And I believe that this is the secret agency 
 that, under Divine Providence, will reform the world. 
 This is the leaven that a woman hid in three meas- 
 ures oT meal till the whole was leavened.' But you 
 will smile at my preaching, I know, and say, you would 
 like to see me practice on my own principles. Pray 
 for me that I may be qualified to be a co-worker with 
 you in the Gospel." 
 
 Mrs. Mason's school continued to increase in num- 
 bers, sometimes reaching to sixty pupils. Assistants 
 were employed in the various departments, but over 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 145 
 
 all was the guiding and directing hand of the expe- 
 rienced and dignified principal. In the school-rooms 
 of No. 12 Second-street many received instruction 
 for years, and in not a few instances the pupils were 
 children of those instructed by " Miss Mary " in the 
 Association Schools. Thoughts of those days to not 
 a few will be sweet, many having followed the meth- 
 ods of instruction there inculcated, thus honoring the 
 memory of their faithful and beloved instructress. 
 In February, 1838, the youngest child was born, and 
 was baptized by Bishop Soule, Francis Asbury. 
 
 In the fall of 1838 Mary, the eldest daughter, was 
 united in marriage to Rev. John M. Howe, the first 
 break for many years in this large family circle. 
 Mary had been as a right arm to her mother. She 
 had borne a large share of her cares and labors, and 
 by a long course of judicious training was following 
 her in the paths of usefulness. Thus qualified, she 
 entered into the solemn relation of wife. 
 
 Perhaps it would not be amiss here to refer to 
 
 Mrs. Mason's method of training her daughters. 
 
 They were required from their early years to take 
 
 part in the domestic duties of the family, each in turn 
 
 being assigned a portion suited to her age and ability. 
 
 Thus one week one would see that the bedrooms 
 
 were in order, another the parlor, while still another 
 
 assisted with ironing, etc. Each was expected to 
 
 keep her own clothing repaired, her drawer in order, 
 
 etc. " A place for every thing, and every thing in its 
 
 place," was a rule often repeated. At twelve years 
 
 of age each child was given a book in which to keep 
 10 
 
146 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 an account of its expenses, thus teaching them sys- 
 tematic carefulness and economy. Each of the elder 
 daughters was given charge of a younger child, and 
 was responsible for its clothes being in order, putting 
 it to bed, etc. In all these plans most efficient 
 aid was rendered by the ever kind and faithful as- 
 sistant, Miss Sickles, who took much pains to carry 
 out the mother's rules in training her family. All 
 were required to be present at family worship, which 
 usually consisted of reading a chapter, singing a few 
 verses, (in which all joined,) and prayer. The love 
 of music, vocal and instrumental, was encouraged, 
 suitable instructors were provided, and hymn books 
 were given to each child that it might join with the 
 great congregation in praising the Creator. 
 
 The care and nursing of the sick was another thing 
 in which the daughters were instructed, having al- 
 ways before them the example of the mother. In- 
 deed, her skill in this important female duty was re- 
 markable. An experienced physician once remarked 
 to her that she " deserved a degree much more than 
 many who had it." Often was she summoned to the 
 sick-bed of relative or friend, her advice and opinion 
 being considered invaluable. Indeed, her knowledge 
 and presence of mind, in cases of sudden and severe 
 accidents or illness, have saved life. She frequently 
 took or sent her children on errands of mercy to the 
 poor, thus early accustoming them to alleviating the 
 wants of others. Respect to the aged was strictly 
 enforced, and regard for the rights of all, rich or poor, 
 was inculcated. Mr. and Mrs. Mason took pains to 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 147 
 
 have such company at their table as would be profit- 
 able and entertaining to their children. They both 
 had much sympathy for strangers in the city, or those 
 who had not religious society at home. Such were 
 frequently welcomed, nor was it deemed an intrusion 
 to make room for one more at the already well-filled 
 table. Mrs. Mason, if surprised by unexpected com- 
 pany, never made them uncomfortable by apologies. 
 The power she had of attracting children was re- 
 markable, having the faculty of soothing an infant or 
 winning a smile from little ones, whether in the house 
 or on the street. Not unfrequently would she stop 
 and say a few pleasant words to groups of children ; 
 and injustice done a child was sure to excite her in- 
 dignation, and bring on the offender severe reproof. 
 In .her frequent visits to the abodes of poverty she 
 sometimes met with abuse, but her firm and dignified 
 manner usually disarmed it, and brought an apology. 
 
 MISSIONARY CORRESPONDENCE. 
 
 Mrs. Mason's zeal for the missionary cause re- 
 mained unabated, but now she was especially inter- 
 ested in the African missions. She was always to 
 be found at her post at the quarterly meetings of the 
 Female Missionary Society, ever ready to hold up 
 the hands of those who sacrificed the comforts of 
 home and friends to preach Jesus in the uttermost 
 parts of the earth. The following extracts from let- 
 ters to Mrs. Wilkins (female missionary to Liberia) 
 will give some insight into her labors and fervency 
 of spirit : 
 
148 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " New York, July 18, 1840. 
 
 "My dear Sister: I am happy to have received 
 your letter, with the specimens of writing from the 
 boys and little Mary Mason. I sent these specimens 
 to several of the Sabbath-schools and juvenile Mis- 
 sionary Societies, and they have had a very good 
 effect in helping to raise subscriptions for the mis- 
 sionary cause. Tell the children I thank them, and 
 I hope every one of them will have their names 
 written in the Lamb's Book of Life. We have col- 
 lected a few articles to show you that you are not 
 forgotten by us, though at such a distance. We 
 should have done more, but the Saluda sails sooner 
 than we expected. But if we could know what you 
 are most in want of in your school, etc., we would be 
 gratified to supply you at another opportunity. Be 
 assured, my dear sister, from our hearts we bid you 
 Godspeed ; you have an interest in our daily ap- 
 proaches to a throne of grace. A few days after I 
 received your letter, I received one from one of our 
 natrve missionaries northwest of Lake Superior ; he 
 informs me the Lord is carrying on his work in that 
 region, among the red men and women of the forest. 
 He says they sometimes have prayer-meetings all 
 night in their wigwams. 
 
 " I have another namesake in that region, aged 
 seventeen, a very pious and useful squaw. Our 
 Female Missionary Society have appropriated one 
 hundred dollars for her education. In a former let- 
 ter, my dear sister, you spoke of a plan for a separate 
 school for girls. I highly approve of the idea, and 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 149 
 
 hope it may be brought about. I spoke to some of 
 the Managers of the Parent Board about it, and they 
 observed it would be best for Brother Seys to make 
 an estimate of what the expense would probably be, 
 and propose some plan for it. I think the Female 
 Missionary Societies would very readily co-operate 
 if they had a defined object. 
 
 "We have good news from Oregon, though not 
 any of the arrival of the last company of missionaries 
 sent there. It is not yet time. From South Amer- 
 ica the intelligence is not very encouraging. * Civil 
 war hinders the progress of the Gospel. . . . My 
 dear sister, if convenient, please to inquire of Brother 
 Brown, of Heddington, if a box of goods reached him 
 from the Greene-street Juvenile Missionary Society 
 about the first of December. They have not heard 
 from them since they were sent. The goods were 
 clothing for males and females, mostly made up. 
 
 " We have sent the materials to you, thinking you 
 could make them up to more advantage than we 
 could, and that it would help to teach the women 
 and girls to sew. 
 
 " I suppose our Bedford-street sisters informed 
 you that they are getting a fine new church built on 
 the site of the old one. The corner-stone was laid 
 by Brother Newton, the delegate from the British 
 Conference to America. He preached a very able and 
 appropriate discourse. His visit to us was very gratify- 
 ing, and I think will be attended with lasting profit. 
 He is indeed a star of the first magnitude in the 
 Methodist system. 
 
150 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 " The Methodists in New York, I think, have been 
 more awake to seek after the deep things of God 
 than I have ever known them. Indeed, our Presby- 
 terian brethren are waking up to the same subject. 
 Wesley's and Fletcher's works oh Christian Per- 
 fection are recommended by Presbyterian ministers 
 from the pulpit. The Jews also begin to grope, 
 though still in much darkness, if haply they may find 
 Him of whom ' Moses in the law, and the prophets, did 
 write — Jesus of Nazareth.' They begin to have Sab- 
 bath-schools, and use the New Testament as a class- 
 book, and some of the older ones are studying it 
 diligently themselves. Does not this look like the 
 promised restoration of the apostate race, and the 
 millennium ? 
 
 " O let us pray that the Lord may hasten it, until 
 the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in 
 his wings to all nations ! 
 
 " In haste, with much love and many prayers for 
 your welfare and success, I remain your sister in 
 Christ, Mary W. Mason." 
 
 In October, 1841, death suddenly snatched away 
 the "first-born," Mrs. Mary Howe. This devoted 
 daughter, this truly pious young Christian, to human 
 sight could ill be spared, either from her circle of 
 relatives or from the Church, of which she was an 
 active member. Her loss was severely felt by her 
 parents, for her energy and cheerfulness seemed 
 essential to their happiness. 
 
 The little motherless ones were taken into the 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 151 
 
 family of the grandmother, there to receive the ten- 
 der care once bestowed on their mother. The babe 
 soon joined its mother, while F. lived to receive 
 early impressions from her grandmother never to be 
 forgotten. 
 
 We subjoin a short account of the life and death 
 of Mrs. Howe, written by her mother shortly after 
 her death : 
 
 " Mary Mason was born in New York, August 10, 
 1818. She was dedicated to the Lord in the ordi- 
 nance of baptism, in the John-street Methodist Epis- 
 copal Church, by Rev. Nathan Bangs. Very early 
 her parents taught her infant lips to pray, and they 
 as early led her to the house of God and to the Sab- 
 bath-school. She gave no evidence of any remark- 
 able impressions having been made upon her heart 
 until her seventh year, when an infant sister, whom 
 she most tenderly loved, was removed by death. 
 This greatly afflicted her, and from this time she ap- 
 peared to have an apprehension of the heinous nature 
 of sin, and to seek deliverance from it. She began 
 now to watch the exercises of her mind, and to re- 
 cord them in the form of a diary. She also, at this 
 time, corresponded with a dear relative, and told some 
 of the feelings of her young heart. When about ten 
 years old she was visited with a very severe illness ; 
 so severe that the physicians informed her mother 
 that there was no hope of her recovery, and that the 
 probability was she would die before morning. With 
 much caution she was informed of her critical situa- 
 tion. She was alarmed, and begged her mother to 
 
152 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 pray for her. She said she was wholly unprepared 
 to die, she had so grieved the Spirit of God by re- 
 sisting the convictions he had given her from ti*ne 
 to time. After her mother and a pious friend had 
 prayed for her most earnestly, she broke out in prayer 
 for herself, most humbly confessing her sins, and 
 promising the Lord if he would spare her life she 
 would faithfully serve him in her day and generation. 
 Her language was astonishing for her years. She thus 
 struggled in prayer for near an hour ; she lay quiet 
 for a few moments, when she turned to her mother 
 with a smiling countenance and said, ' Mother, I 
 shall not die now ; I shall live to see the morning 
 light ; I shall live to see my father return.' 
 
 " A change took place in her disorder, and she re- 
 covered slowly from that hour. But when questioned 
 on her religious enjoyment, she did not profess to 
 enjoy a sense of the pardon of her sins at that time. 
 About a year after this, in a little Sabbath-school 
 prayer-meeting where her cousin and her younger 
 sister were converted, she was greatly exercised and 
 somewhat comforted, but not wholly satisfied. When 
 she returned home, without waiting to lay aside her 
 hat, she hurried to her room, and throwing herself 
 on her knees beside her bed, in a few moments she 
 shouted, ' I have now found him ! Jesus is precious 
 to my soul, he has forgiven my sins, and he owns me 
 for his child ! ' From this time she redeemed her 
 promise of being useful in her day and generation* 
 
 " She took charge of a class in Sunday-school, for 
 whose immortal interest she labored and prayed. A 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 153 
 
 gracious revival of religion commenced in the school, 
 and about thirty of the youth were united in class, 
 and placed under the care of the male and female 
 superintendents. A Juvenile Missionary Society was 
 formed, and Mary became one of its most zealous and 
 useful managers. In 1832, in the order of Providence, 
 her father was removed to New York. It was the 
 season of the cholera. Mary and her younger sister 
 grieved much at leaving their beloved Sunday-school 
 and young associatas in Troy. Soon after their arri- 
 val in New York they presented their certificates 
 to Brother Sandford, then Pastor of Greene-street 
 Church. Here Mary entered again heartily into the 
 labors of the Sunday-school, and was one of the chief 
 instruments in forming the Juvenile Missionary So- 
 ciety in Greene-street Church, of which she thus 
 speaks : ' March 7, 1836, I attended the first mana- 
 gers' meeting of the Youth's Missionary Society this 
 evening ; an excellent spirit prevailed, and all seemed 
 heartily to feel for the poor heathen. O that I had 
 some more active place in this part of the Lord's 
 vineyard ! ' 
 
 " In the circle of her father's family she endeared 
 herself to her parents and her brothers and sisters, by 
 the most affectionate attentions, always preferring 
 their comfort and welfare to her own ; indeed, self- 
 denial was a prominent trait in her character. Her 
 influence among her youthful associates was de- 
 cidedly religious. Warm-hearted and cheerful, she 
 made many friends. Being very conscientious, she 
 was quick to detect the least appearance of evil, and 
 
154 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 bold to administer reproof. Her habits of industry 
 led her to be always employed in works of usefulness 
 either at home or abroad. As the eldest daughter 
 she was a model, the stay and staff of her parents, 
 and the exemplar of her brothers and" sisters. ' When 
 called to change her relations in life, she still main- 
 tained her Christian character ; nor did she lay aside 
 her efforts for the good of others, but entered into a 
 more enlarged field of usefulness, until, in the midst 
 of her life work, she was suddenly summoned to her 
 reward. Her friends closed her eyes with the blessed 
 assurance that she fell asleep in Jesus. Thus died 
 our much beloved daughter, Mary Howe, in the vigor 
 of health, in the midst of worldly prosperity, with a 
 prospect of extensive usefulness to her family and to 
 the Church. Of her might it be truly said, she was 
 'diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the 
 Lord.' " 
 
 A memoir of Mrs. Mary Howe was published by 
 her husband. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 155 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 DANGEROUS ILLNESS. 
 
 Dangerous Illness— Letter to Mrs. Wilkins— Death of Mi\ Mason — 
 Resigaation as Sunday-School Superintendent — Death of Daughter 
 Anna — Letters to Mrs. Wilkins — Sketches of Secretaries of 
 Female Missionary Board, etc. 
 
 In the latter part of 1842 Mrs. Mason was attacked 
 by sudden and severe illness. To all appearance 
 death was inevitable, as the physicians gave but little 
 hope. With calmness and resignation she met this 
 unexpected summons ; talked with her family indi- 
 vidually, dictated messages to her absent children* 
 with great composure, hourly expecting her dissolu- 
 tion. Many devoted friends were praying that she 
 might be spared yet a little longer to her family and 
 the Church. In mercy her heavenly Father heard 
 and answered, thus verifying the assurance, "The 
 effectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth 
 much." A crisis in the disease was followed by 
 gradual improvement and final restoration. Provi- 
 dence had yet a work in store for his handmaid. 
 Again Mrs. Mason resumed her school duties and 
 efforts for the good of others. 
 
 The state of Mrs. Mason's mind during this illness, 
 
 * Mr. and Mrs. C. C. North, who three months previously had been 
 married and removed to Mississippi. 
 
156 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 and her full expectation that her work on earth was 
 well-nigh concluded, are apparent from the following 
 letter written by her to her friend Mrs. Wilkin s : 
 
 * New York, April 12. 1843. 
 
 " My Dear Sister : In much haste I write these 
 few lines to you. We did not expect the vessel to 
 sail for a week to come, and to-day we were informed 
 it would sail to-morrow ; so we have to hurry *to get 
 ready for it. By it you will receive the goods for 
 which you wrote to me by Brother Goheen. I believe 
 they are all procured as you wished. The committee 
 who have prepared thern, I expect, will write to you. 
 
 u I lent your letter to the committee, and therefore 
 shall not be able to answer it circumstantially. I was 
 glad to hear of your safe recovery from indisposition, 
 but we were sorry to learn that you had not been able 
 to effect your purpose in the establishment of a Fe- 
 male Labor School. On the receipt of your letter a 
 .committee was appointed to address the Parent Board 
 on the subject, and I believe, in consequence of our 
 application, they addressed a request to Brother Chase 
 to place the girls which were in Brother Wilson's 
 school under your care. Has this been done ? and 
 have you now under your care some girls who are 
 fitting for teachers ? I hope you will write explicitly 
 and freely, and with perfect confidence to me. 
 
 " Our Board have their hearts set on a Female 
 Manual Labor School in Africa, and I think will use 
 every means in their power to bring it about. Though 
 the times have been very hard, I think the missionary 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 157 
 
 • 
 
 spirit is not declining in our country. Our Society, 
 I believe, will realize about as good collections as in 
 any former year, or nearly so. We have sustained a 
 heavy loss in the death of one of our Board, Mrs. Dr. 
 White, known as a writer in the ' Christian Advocate' 
 by the signature ' Frances.' She was a woman of faith, 
 and zealous in good works, and enjoyed much peace 
 and joy in her last illness. She made a triumphant 
 end yesterday morning. 
 
 " I was brought very near the grave last autumn 
 by inflammation of the lungs. I had no expectation 
 of recovery, and had delivered, as I thought, my last 
 instructions to my family. But it pleased the Lord 
 to raise me up, I believe in answer to the prayers of 
 the Church, which were offered up for me in public 
 and in private. Contrary to the expectations of my 
 physicians and my family I was restored to a measure 
 of health, but not as good as I enjoyed before. But, 
 my dear sister, I found the promises of the Gospel to 
 be yea and amen. My mind was kept in perfect 
 peace, and though the prospect of leaving my family 
 at any other time would have been very distressing, 
 yet in this trying hour my mind was kept from anxiety, 
 and I was enabled, with firm trust and confidence, to 
 leave all in the hands of the Lord. I had sweet hopes 
 of eternal rest. * O, to grace, how great a debtor.' 
 
 " I trust, my dear sister, you are enjoying the 
 blessing of the fullness of grace. We have had gra- 
 cious seasons of revival throughout the city and country 
 around. It is estimated there have been upward of 
 two thousand added to the Methodist Churches in the 
 
158 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 • 
 
 city. My family have shared in this glorious work. 
 % . . Tell little Mary Mason that the good people paid 
 ten dollars to our Missionary Society to make her a 
 life member, and that she must learn fast to be a 
 teacher. Give Mamma Mason's love to all the little 
 boys and girls. Tell them they must love the Lord 
 and do good. . . . Write the earliest opportunity, 
 and let us know what are your prospects in the 
 school, etc. 
 
 " With much affection, your sister in Christ, 
 
 " Mary W. Mason." 
 
 Ere another year rolled around, sickness and death 
 again entered the family circle, this time removing the 
 father. He was attacked by small-pox, (probably con- 
 tracted while passing through the street,) and being 
 already in a delicate state of health, soon succumbed 
 to the disease. The faithful wife nursed him with 
 untiring devotion. From the contagious nature of 
 the disease, it was extremely difficult to procure assist- 
 ance, nor would she allow the other members of the 
 family to be exposed, so in mercy they were spared. 
 
 The following account of Mr. Mason we copy from 
 her own writing : * 
 
 " Thomas Mason was born in Craven County, 
 North Carolina, January 21, 1787. His parents were 
 among the first who joined the Methodist Church in 
 that place, and took much pains to train their children 
 up for the Lord ; but Thomas having to leave home 
 and reside in the city of Newbern, about thirty miles 
 from his parents, was soon, by ungodly companions, 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. t 159 
 
 drawn aside into the paths of sinners, and forgot the 
 religious instructions received in his youth. When 
 about eighteen, he was summoned home to attend the 
 last hours of his beloved father, whose dying admoni- 
 tions made a lasting impression on his mind. He 
 now began to think seriously about his soul's interest, 
 and gave his name, with deep penitence of heart, to 
 join the Church as a seeker, and on the 30th of 
 September following obtained the evidence of par- 
 doned sin in class-meeting. He thus expresses it in 
 his journal : ' The Lord did deliver me ; he brought 
 me up out of a horrible pit ; he took my feet out of 
 the miry clay ; he sat me upon a rock ; he put a 
 new song in my mouth, even praises to my God ! 
 And, praised be his holy name ! he- hath established 
 my goings.' His mind soon became exercised on the 
 subject of preaching, and his brethren being con- 
 vinced that he was called of God to the work, cheer- 
 fully gave him a license. For a short time he exer- 
 cised as a local preacher ; but he was soon convinced 
 that it was his duty to give himself up wholly to the 
 work, and accordingly offered himself to the next 
 Annual Conference. His first station was Fayette- 
 ville, South Carolina Conference, February, 1808. 
 
 "In 1 8 16 the Conference appointed him Presiding 
 Elder of the Broad River District. At this Confer- 
 ence he was elected a delegate to the General Con- 
 ference, which was to sit in Baltimore in May. By 
 the General Conference he was appointed Assistant 
 Book Agent. He came to New York in June, 18 16, 
 and continued a member of the New York Confer- 
 
160 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 ence nearly twenty-five years : sixteen years in the 
 Book Concern, four years as Presiding Elder of the 
 Troy District, and five years in different stations. 
 During this time his ministry, under God, was greatly 
 blessed. 
 
 " But for the latter part of his time in the Book 
 Concern, though his duties as Book Agent were dis- 
 charged with the utmost fidelity, and with general 
 satisfaction to the Church, yet it was evident that his 
 spirituality and zeal in the ministry were declining, 
 though he still preached with acceptance and profit 
 to many. 
 
 " But he was himself conscious that the overwhelm- 
 ing press of secular concerns was fast drawing his 
 heart from God ; and those who witnessed his secret 
 prayers and groans can testify how hard he labored 
 to recover his religious enjoyment. But, by the grace 
 of God, he was not left to be led captive by Satan at 
 his will. His own words, in a few lines to a friend, 
 will best express his feelings on this subject : ' The 
 Lord has been witness to my groanings, my sighs, 
 tears, and anguish of spirit, and sorrow of heart, such 
 as he alone could sustain me under. And I bless 
 his holy name, although his billows have gone over 
 me, yet he hath not suffered me to sink entirely. I 
 know that my repentance hath been acceptable to 
 God, for he hath pardoned my transgressions, and 
 shed his love abroad in my heart. Indeed, the mani- 
 festation of God's amazing love and mercy to me was 
 as great, if not greater, than I had ever felt before. 
 Never had I clearer views of the infinite willingness 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 161 
 
 of God the Father to save sinners, nor of the all- 
 sufficiency of the blood of Christ to remove not only 
 the guilt of sin, but to cleanse from all unrighteous- 
 ness. Never had I clearer views of the depth and 
 universality of the depravity of human nature. * My 
 heart responds to the words of the poet with a feeling 
 inexpressible : 
 
 * O Love, thou bottomless abyss ! 
 
 My sins are swallowed up in thee ; 
 Covered is my unrighteousness, 
 
 Nor spot of guilt remains on me : 
 While Jesus' blood, through earth and skies, 
 Mercy, free, boundless mercy, cries.' 
 
 " ' There is such a thing as being under deep sorrow 
 of heart, and at the same time enjoying a consciousness 
 of the favor of God. This has been my experience 
 for the most of the last two years ; but I praise God, 
 latterly I have experienced more joy in the Holy 
 Ghost, and I trust it will increase and abound more 
 and more,' And so it did. Through the last winter, 
 most of the time, his mind seemed filled with peace* 
 and joy. And throughout his last severe illness, 
 which lasted seventeen days, his mind appeared to 
 enjoy perfect peace. On one occasion, being asked 
 if he was troubled with any doubt of his acceptance, 
 he replied, ' No, not a doubt. I have a firm trust and 
 reliance on the infinite willingness of God to save me 
 to the uttermost, and the infinite merit of Jesus Christ 
 for full salvation. His blood and righteousness I 
 make my only plea.' 
 
 'On the last Sabbath previous to his death he said 
 11 
 
1 62 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 to his physician, ' This is the last Sabbath I shall 
 spend on earth. But I hope soon to enter upon that 
 glorious Sabbath that will never end ! ' Hearing the 
 bells ringing for Church, he remarked, ' Many of the 
 children of God are now flocking to his courts to 
 worship ; I cannot be with them in person, but I am 
 with them in spirit.' 
 
 " For the first week of his sickness he appeared 
 anxious to recover ; but having accomplished some 
 business that lay with weight on his mind, he sweetly 
 resigned himself to the will of the Lord, and was 
 rather desirous of leaving life. On one occasion he 
 requested his companion to pray. She prayed the 
 Lord to sanctify means for his recovery. When she 
 had done, he said, ' I could not respond to one part 
 of your prayer ; I do not wish to recover ; I would 
 rather depart and be with Christ ; it is far better. It 
 will be but a little while before we shall meet in the 
 realms of eternal glory ! ' His senses were in perfect 
 exercise to the last moment of his life. His companion, 
 seeing life was fast passing away, asked him if he still 
 felt the Lord Jesus present with him to sustain and 
 comfort him? He replied, 'The Lord is with me.' 
 These were his last words. He died without a 
 struggle or a groan, only ceasing to breathe. Truly, 
 his end was peace." 
 
 Now, indeed, was there call for wisdom and resolu- 
 tion. God blessed Mrs. M.'s efforts for the education 
 of her younger children, opening the way for her in 
 difficulties, and raising up friends in the hour of need. 
 We see her as, with reverent attitude and pleading 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 163 
 
 voice, she daily, at the family altar, commends her 
 fatherless family to their heavenly Father, claiming 
 the precious promises for them. She had proved 
 with tried Job of old, that God was ever faithful, and 
 could say, ' Though he slay me, yet will I trust in 
 him.' 
 
 - Varied changes followed in rapid succession in the 
 few following years. Some others of the circle married 
 and went to fill the responsibilities of life in other 
 homes, and some left the paternal roof for business 
 purposes. In 1845 Mrs. Mason resigned her position 
 as Female Superintendent of Greene-street Sunday- 
 school. A copy of her letter of resignation we insert : 
 
 " New York, Jtine 9, 1845. 
 
 " Dear Brethren and Sisters : It has been my 
 deliberate opinion, for some time past that I am occu- 
 pying a place in your school which might be filled 
 more to its interests by a person differently situated 
 from myself. The distance of my residence from the 
 Church, and other unavoidable hinderances, render it 
 impracticable for me to be present more than one 
 session, and then, perhaps, not punctually. 
 
 " In view of these circumstances, I deem it my duty 
 to tender to you my resignation of the office of Super- 
 intendent, believing there are others in the Church 
 who are in better circumstances, and better qualified 
 to fill it efficiently. And perhaps the school will 
 never be in a better state for such a change, than at 
 present. The classes on the female side have been" 
 recently re-organized, and have been (with one excep- 
 
164 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 tion) "supplied with efficient teachers. The school 
 has never, within my recollectio'n, been more pros- 
 perous at this season of the year than it appears now. 
 It needs but the Divine blessing on the labors of 
 faithful conductors to make it indeed ' the garden 
 of the Lord.' I shall, through life, cherish a grateful 
 remembrance of the many proofs of Christian regard 
 I have experienced during the twelve years I have 
 been connected with the schoo.1. 
 
 " If, through the grace of our blessed Lord, I have 
 been enabled to effect any good in that time, to his 
 name be all the glory. And if, through ignorance 
 or human frailty, I have done harm, may the mantle 
 of righteousness cover it 
 
 " With sincere prayers for the prosperity of your 
 school, I remain, your sister in Christ, 
 
 " M. W. Mason. 
 
 " P. S. If at any time I can render you any assist- 
 ance in the school, I shall be happy to do so to the 
 extent of my ability. M. W. M." 
 
 LETTER TO MRS. WILKINS. 
 
 " New York, Oct. 26, 1845. 
 " My Dear Sister Wilkins : I am long and much 
 in your debt for a letter and messages of love, but my 
 not answering has been more of necessity than of 
 choice, I assure you. I have felt a lively interest in 
 all concerning you, and though I have not expressed 
 it by pen and ink, my Heavenly Father is witness to 
 my many prayers for your temporal and spiritual 
 
Lf0 of Mrs. Mary W. Maso?t. i6$ 
 
 welfare, and my pleadings before both Missionary 
 Boards in your behalf. Still, I know if I had been 
 more economical in the use of my time, I might have 
 found enough to tell you that I love you still, and 
 that neither time nor distance has made any change 
 in my esteem for you. I suppose you have learned 
 that I have given away another of my daughters in 
 marriage. My daughter Anna was married last fall 
 to a young minister named John M. Reid, a very 
 promising member of the New York Conference. 
 They are stationed at Wolcottville, Conn. They are 
 very happily situated, and I trust doing good. But 
 this leaves me more encumbered with domestic cares 
 than ever. 
 
 " I am now sole head of my school and my family ; 
 this, you may suppose, leaves me but little leisure. 
 With these encumbrances and my duties in the Sun- 
 day-school, and in the different societies to which 
 Divine Providence has called me, I have often seem- 
 ingly to neglect my beloved correspondents. 
 
 " And now, my dear sister, let me affectionately 
 inquire, how are you getting on in your responsible 
 station ? Is the Lord giving you to see the fruit of 
 your labors ? You have left the ninety and nine, and 
 have gone to seek the one that was lost. Do you find 
 that the good Shepherd is with you, directing your 
 course, and blessing your pursuit ? O what an 
 honor, my dear sister, to be thus engaged for Jesus ! 
 May no one ever take your crown ! 
 
 " We are very much interested in all your move- 
 ments. Do not fail to write us at every opportunity. 
 
1 66 L ife of Mrs. Mary W. Ma*on. 
 
 You can effect more by your letters than would many 
 missionary addresses. Do not fear to be too circum- 
 stantial ; you may trust our prudence in publishing ; 
 but we want to know the true state of the missions in 
 Africa. Give us all the interesting facts you can 
 collect, especially to bring before Sabbath-schools. 
 
 " Let us know if you want any thing to assist you 
 in your labors, and your wants shall be met as far as 
 we are able. And ever remember, my dear sister, in 
 all your toil and discouragements, you have a sympa- 
 thizing band of sisters in New York, who are ever 
 praying for you, and are deeply interested in all that 
 concerns you, and ready at all times to assist you in 
 word and deed. . . . We were much pleased with 
 what you said about the girls of your school. ..." 
 
 "I am pleased with the spirit manifested by 
 the missionaries who are now going out. I think 
 you will find Sister Benham a very agreeable friend, 
 and one heartily engaged in the work. I knew her 
 by character years ago, when engaged in the Canada 
 Indian missions. I trust the Lord will preserve 
 their precious lives to be very useful in Africa. My 
 children all unite in love to you. 
 
 " You have heard, I suppose, of the death of Sister 
 Blanding, of Philadelphia. She died after a very 
 short illness, but left a blessed evidence that she 
 was going to rest from her labors. She was a good 
 friend to missions. I must now close with much love, 
 and many prayers for your welfare. 
 
 " Your affectionate friend, 
 
 " Mary W. Mason." 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 167 
 
 In the summer, of 1846, again Mrs. Mason was 
 called to mourn the loss of a dear daughter, Mrs. 
 Anna M. Reid, who died July 6th. Though death 
 came unexpectedly, she was the first to declare his 
 approach, and with calmness and earnestness gave 
 directions concerning her babe, exhorted her husband 
 to preach the Gospel faithfully, and gave charges to 
 other members of the family. She seemed happy 
 and resigned. Thus passed away a beloved daughter 
 in her twentieth year, whose amiable and attractive 
 manners endeared her to all, and whose talents and 
 propects bade fair for length of days and usefulness. 
 To the mother this was a severe trial, from which it 
 took her a long time to recover. Now again the 
 grandmother received into her arms another mother- 
 less one, who at once became an object of anxious 
 care and solicitude. 
 
 LETTERS TO MRS. WILKIN5, 
 
 "New York, April 27, 1846. 
 "My Dear Sister: I was very much pleased to 
 receive your letter, and was glad to learn that you 
 were still spared to labor in love and faith in the 
 interesting field to which, it is very evident, the Lord 
 has called you. You must indeed have been de- 
 lighted to meet the lovely missionary family which 
 sailed from here. But how mysterious that death 
 should have been permitted to cut down one of that 
 little band ere they had scarcely commenced the 
 work to which they appeared so providentially called. 
 To human calculation how badly could one be spared, 
 
1 68 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 when there was such a call for laborers. But it is the 
 Lord who hath done it, and he doth afflict but to 
 comfort more abundantly ; and, though these dispen- 
 sations are grievous for the time, they work out for us 
 a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. I 
 do sincerely sympathize with Sister Williams. May 
 the good Lord support her, soul and body, under this 
 very heavy stroke ! Please give my love to her, though 
 I am personally unknown to her. 
 
 " I congratulate you, dear sister, on having the de- 
 sire of your heart accomplished in having your school 
 filled up with such a company of native girls. But I 
 am at a loss to tell how you can manage and cater 
 for such a company of perfectly untaught heathen. 
 Will you not need some adult help ? Would not Sis- 
 ter Williams be a useful assistant to you ? 
 
 " I am preparing a package of alphabet cards, 
 primers, and such elementary books as you will need 
 to instruct such perfectly ignorant minds ; but I 
 fear I shall not be able to procure them before the 
 vessel sails : if so, I will send them by the first 
 opportunity. 
 
 " Sister Lane and myself spent some time at the 
 Book Room preparing a box of goods for your ex- 
 press use. But as the goods for your immediate use 
 were ordered to be sent to the Book Room for pack- 
 ing, they got intermixed, and perhaps you may not 
 find all you ordered in the box directed to you • you 
 will find them packed with other missionary goods. 
 Never, to my knowledge, were the sympathies of the 
 people more awakened than by the communication 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 169 
 
 of the recapture of the Pons. I think we shall find 
 no difficulty in procuring funds for the maintenance 
 and education of those you have adopted. May our 
 heavenly Father help you to persevere in your benev- 
 olent designs ! 
 
 " With regard to the repairing of your building, I 
 think it will be accomplished ; at «our anniversary we 
 hope to raise considerable toward it. I wish you 
 could send us an estimate of the probable cost, etc. 
 
 " With respect to the weaving machine you men- 
 tioned. Do you wish it to weave cotton cloth ? Can 
 you find the raw material there ? and will it be of 
 much advantage to the girls when removed from your 
 immediate care ? 
 
 " I am very sorry my little namesake has been 
 stolen from the mission ; but I am somewhat com- 
 forted in the reflection that our labor is not lost. The 
 Christian knowledge she acquired, and the ability to 
 read the Bible, may yet turn to some good account. 
 But I had hoped to hear of her being usefully em- 
 ployed among her own people: . . . 
 
 " I am very desirous to see a seed raised up among 
 the youth of Africa to praise the Lord, and I trust 
 those recaptured slaves, so providentially placed un- 
 der our care, may yet be as a cloud of witnesses for 
 Jesus, bearing the glad tidings of salvation all over 
 those benighted regions. And then, my dear sister, 
 whether in heaven or on earth, you will rejoice that 
 you were counted worthy to help on this glorious 
 work. . . . 
 
 " Our friends are generally well. Many remember 
 
170 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 you affectionately. You and your dear associates 
 have the sympathies and prayers of the Methodist 
 Episcopal Church here. 
 
 " Please remember me affectionately to Sister 
 Benham. I intended to write to her, but shall not be 
 .able at this time ; but assure her, I cease not to pray 
 daily for her and the other dear missionary friends, 
 that the Lord would sustain and guide them in their 
 arduous labors. Love to Sister Hoyt. I should be 
 much pleased if each could find time to drop a line 
 to me. You may always look to our Female Mis- 
 sionary Board as to a family of sisters, who are ever 
 ready to sympathize with you in all your afflictions, 
 and as far as in their power to lighten your burdens 
 and assist you in your labor of love. Every item of 
 intelligence from Africa is now very interesting. I 
 hope, therefore, you will write freely and frequently. 
 Pray for me, dear sister, that I may be kept faithful 
 to the end of the race. 
 
 " Your affectionate sister in Christ, 
 
 " Mary W. Mason." 
 
 " New York, Nov. 25, 1846. 
 
 " My Dear Sister Wilkins : In much haste I 
 must write these few lines. I am pleased to have ah 
 opportunity to send them by Sister Brush, who, as 
 you have learned, goes to you as an assistant in your 
 arduous duties. I think you will find her just such 
 a friend and companion as you need. Our Board 
 have felt much concerned for you under your arduous 
 duties, with your feeble state of health. We wish 
 
Life of Mrs, Mary W. Mason. 171 
 
 you to favor yourself as much as possible, consistent 
 with indispensable duties. 
 
 "We have pressed the subject of the rebuilding 
 of your house on the parent Board until I think we 
 have made arrangements to have it done. Brother 
 Benham, we understand, is instructed by the Board 
 to have what is necessary done. 
 
 " We had more difficulty than we expected in 
 getting their consent to send Sister Brush as your 
 assistant. Some talked as though it was certain 
 death to send a white female to Africa ; but we con- 
 tended that you and Sister Stoker had lived and 
 been useful there ; and that if the Lord called Sister 
 Brush to go, he could take care of her there as well 
 as in New York. Her mind seems perfectly clear 
 on the subject. She commits herself to the pro- 
 tection of Providence, and I have no doubt the Lord 
 will guard and guide her. May you be made a bless- 
 ing to each other, and may the work of the Lord 
 prosper in your hands ! " 
 
 " November 27. 
 
 "As Sister Brush does not go till to-morrow, I 
 deferred finishing my letter until to-day. Yesterday 
 was appointed by the Governor of our State as a day 
 of thanksgiving. We were called upon to retrospect 
 the blessings which we enjoyed during the past. 
 Truly the Lord has been good and gracious to us as a 
 nation. For my own part, in reviewing the blessings 
 of the past year, I can set to my seal, ' The Lord is 
 good> .Though I have been called to pass through 
 
172 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 some severe trials, yet in the midst of all the Lord 
 has not forsaken me. The death of my dear daugh- 
 ter Anna was next to the most severe trial I ever 
 experienced, and though it has severely affected my 
 nervous system, I trust it has tended to wean my 
 affections more from earth and center them in 
 heaven. 
 
 " Our dear Sister Lane is one of the foremost in 
 the Saviour's ranks among the sisterhood. She and 
 I take sweet counsel together. Sister Moore holds 
 on her way rejoicing ; and many more, whom I 
 might name, are striving to live near to God. We 
 often speak and think of you, and more frequently 
 pray that you may abound yet more abundantly in 
 every good word and work. May you have many- — 
 nay, all of those committed to your care — as stars in 
 your crown of rejoicing in the great day of accounts. 
 We are frequently asked by friends, ' What does 
 Sister Wilkins most need ? ' Please answer this 
 question in your next. There are many kind hands 
 and hearts ready to contribute, if they knew how, to 
 your personal comfort. Do not be backward to 
 make known your wants ? With respect to the 
 weaving apparatus, the parent Board think it best 
 to defer it at present But now that you have so 
 good an assistant, I think it would be well to teach 
 the children some kind of manufacturing, that would 
 be of use to them in after life. If you think it best 
 to introduce weaving, please to define what descrip- 
 tion of machine you want for the purpose, and I 
 think we can readily supply it. If you could* send 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 173 
 
 some specimens of the children's writing or work to 
 our Board it would aid us much in our collections. 
 Your letters are always read with interest. I hope 
 you will continue to write freely and fiMy. 
 
 " Your sister in Christ, M. W. Mason." 
 
 "New York, July 30, 1847. 
 
 " My Dear Sister Wilkins : I am glad to have 
 another opportunity of communicating to you by 
 letter my continued affection for you, and the 
 unabated interest I still feel in all which concerns 
 you. My heart rejoiced in the favorable intelligence 
 received by the last arrival from Africa. The Lord 
 is with you of a truth. May his work ever prosper 
 in your hands ! I am glad to learn that your health 
 is so well restored, and that your circumstances are 
 rendered so much more comfortable by the addition 
 to your house, etc. 
 
 " I think Providence certainly directed us in the 
 choice of a companion for you in Sister Brush. We 
 were well satisfied that the Lord had called her to 
 the work ; but it was difficult for us to get the parent 
 Board to think as we did. They had almost come to 
 the resolution not to send another white female to 
 Africa, because they believed it would be sacrificing 
 health and life. A committee from our Board waited 
 personally on several of the leading opposers, after 
 our petition had been twice vetoed, and by dint of 
 argument and persuasion we obtained the promise of 
 their acquiescence. This made it very inconvenient 
 for Sister Brush, as she had so short a notice to pre- 
 
174 Lift if Jfe. JI**j W. J/uml 
 
 ;: - "' .* "--t :— 2.- I :.;:_ -- --<— -'—- --- 
 
 -- • - =•" :z:.::" lz : _ ~-~~ i_i : :„_ ; --_- : : — - 
 passion. Maj^on long fiie to be belpmaies to each 
 
 -.:-: in ±t :*;..: : li 7 :7._.- :.-_; ir-:~r--^ I 
 
 :: 
 
 t**7 :•:■:: i7 :...:.-t_ 7t7t: --:r::: _ : _ ~- — z — ::7 
 eager atftrnfiriB to the wids of instraclion from ycmr 
 
 _:. ; "; _ :;_ ;~r 7 ' -.r ir\ :.. .;_ "j.t l~: .. l- 
 :-.'. : _ : • : ::. 7 r ~ — " . . ;:: ~~-_ ~-\: \~~~- ~ : ~ 
 zzjt ~; .t - t ' -- : i -_i - zj^zz _r:~ "t 
 :::' ::.: ; ■: ".: :.rL-. :t _..:t i.:.: -:■- irt 
 
 ; 
 hut vbeie yon ejected to gafifarr grapes^ yon fad 
 *r_~ ~~ ics. Tie BppKSsire dnafe nr^nrs a. Ham- 
 _~\ : t: ~ --it 7~ -..::_ i ~-.:\ ~z~z ~~~~z~ zz.~z.~2- 
 V-.--~.~z ;v:;:";._:_:.. ~ " ""7 ~~ ri_~ :»:c~ 7:: 
 aie ready to csy <orat. 'Who is saaJrient Ibr these 
 : ' " . . : : : ■ ' r : - ' - : " : - - 
 
 :. : 7: ; \ . :; _ ± :; 7 .:.; .7. : .7 7 ±1 17 - 7 
 —i+r&rr. - 1 can do all uMing? Kfcto n g h Gaiist wiuada 
 ':'•-. zzzz .-.: -~~ :z - . zzzzz±. zzrj ::•-' : "7- ; :•- -.:* 7 
 been naandeiiifllly supported im body and nufid m 
 \". .:..:.-...:.-■ . - r. "it. :: :i:izi-rr.= : ".. : .1: " ; .: - : 
 -7 —11 \7:7 ;:.. 7 it Z:7;.7:7: Y:. : -.17 Hiiltr:: 
 hatii the Lord beeped vs.* 
 
 7:7 ;_": -7: _. 77: -I-, -: :::: 2: :: . . :\ .:-.- 
 
 M unto death, and I wfli gne tbee a crom of fife." 
 
 ■ 7 :: -7 7.1 7- . 77"- 
 
 "7 .;•; :7 ;.:..:. 7 ' : .: ::': " 7 riTinr ' ririr 
 
 .77 i - . . v 7:7 : 7:7 77 : . -; 7 : .- ' r l: 
 
 - 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 175 
 
 Sister Lane is not in town. Her health is very fee- 
 ble. I suppose Sister Lane gave you an account of 
 the death of our beloved and excellent Secretary, 
 Sister Maria Harper. 
 
 " Our Board has met with a great loss in this 
 bereavement ; but being conscious that our loss was 
 her infinite gain, we do not murmur. I visited my 
 friends in Philadelphia last month, and paid a visit 
 to the tomb of our much beloved and lamented 
 friend, Sister Blanden. Many charitable institutions 
 in Philadelphia sympathize with us in this bereave- 
 ment. But ' she has entered into the joy of her 
 Lord.' . . . 
 
 " Yesterday I spent an hour in company with 
 Bishop Waugh. He informed me that tliere was a 
 regular line of packets to sail from Baltimore to Mon- 
 rovia monthly. So we shall have an opportunity of 
 exchanging communications^regularly and frequently. 
 Please to present my love to Sister Brush, and tell 
 her I should be very glad to receive a line from her 
 by the next return vessel. 
 
 " I have heard from Mr. and Mrs. Savage from 
 Cape Palmas. They have arrived in good health and 
 spirits. I hope to see them in a few days. Mr. Savage 
 will probably go on a mission to Texas. I intended 
 to say something concerning your return, but have 
 not time now. Only, when you think it necessary to 
 return, you will meet with a cordial welcome from our 
 Board. Please «give my love to Brother fnd Sister 
 Benham. I hear a very good report of Brother Hen- 
 ham's African coffee, but better of the spiritual growth 
 
176 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 of the Church. Write soon and let us know how we 
 can serve you. 
 
 " With much love, your sister in Christ, 
 
 " Mary W. Mason." 
 
 " New York, Aug. 25, 1848. 
 
 " My Dear Sister Wilkins : I am glad to learn 
 by your last to Sister Lane that our dear Sister Brush 
 is getting better. May her precious life and yours, 
 dear sister, be long continued for usefulness in your 
 part of the Lord's vineyard. I see by an extract from 
 a letter from Brother Burns, that there is great need 
 of good female teachers in Africa. Though you may 
 have been somewhat disappointed in the results of 
 your instructions in some instances, still persevere, 
 sowing in the name of the Lord beside all waters, 
 and God will surely give the increase. The fruit will 
 be found on the wate^, or on the good ground, 
 ' thirty, sixty, or a hundred fold.' 
 
 " Captain Lawlin, I learn, is too unwell to return 
 to Africa. I am rejoiced to hear that your school is 
 prospering. O, my dear sister, what an honor it is 
 to be the instrument in saving one soul from endless 
 perdition ! But ' they who turn many to righteous- 
 ness' shall shine as stars in the kingdom of God. . . . 
 
 " There is nothing very interesting in our Church 
 just now. Camp-meetings are in progress, and some 
 good news reaches us once in awhile from them. 
 
 " I horfe you continue to remember our prayer- 
 meeting at four o'clock on the last Wednesday after- 
 noon in each month. We meet in the new Mission 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. ijj 
 
 Room in Mulberry-street, which is very commodious 
 and convenient. We do not cease to remember you 
 and all our sisters in the various missionary stations. 
 We feel as though the Lord has heard our prayers in 
 behalf of Sister Brush, in that he hath raised her up 
 once more to assist you in your arduous labors. I 
 must close in haste, as I am going out of town this 
 morning. Give much love to Sister Brush from me. 
 " Do write frequently and freely to your affectionate 
 friend, Mary W. Mason." 
 
 SECRETARIES OF THE FEMALE MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 
 
 Among the worthy Secretaries of the time-honored 
 Female Missionary Society might be noticed Miss 
 Susan Lamplin, the early friend and companion of 
 Mrs. Mason in John-street, who imitated the example 
 of her precious mother by her zeal and devotion to 
 the Church of God. 
 
 •Another was Miss Maria Arcularius, (afterward 
 Mrs. James Harper,) a choice and intimate friend of 
 Mrs. Mason. In their early religious experience, 
 members of the same Band-meeting, and both in 
 communion with the Old John-street Church, they 
 often took sweet counsel together. As they walked 
 in after life, each in her lot, their esteem for each 
 other remained unabated, "Sister Maria's" name 
 appears in the first Missionary Board, of which she 
 remained a member until her death in 1 847, at which 
 time she was Secretary. Mrs: Mason feelingly alludes 
 to this event in one of her letters. 
 12 
 
178 Life of Mrs. Mary IV Mason. 
 
 Still another was Almira Ostrander, small in 
 stature, (like her venerable father,) but warm-hearted 
 and benevolent. Ready with her pen, she kept the 
 records of the Society neatly and methodically. She 
 was re-elected for several successive years. 
 
 Another devoted Secretary was Mrs. Ann Frances 
 Mankin, whose sprightly step and bright eye will long 
 be remembered by those who knew her in those 
 active years. Early taught by her excellent mother 
 (Airs. Strong) to do good and communicate, she loved 
 and honored the cause of Christ. She too was re- 
 elected several times. ... 
 
 The first Treasurer of the Society was Mrs. Dr. 
 Seaman, who remained in office till 1823. Mild and 
 gentle in her manners, she was a beloved disciple, 
 ready to do her Master's bidding. She was succeeded 
 in office by Miss R. Burling, and she in 1828 by Mrs. 
 Lancaster Burling, who held this responsible position 
 'for twenty-four years, being ever punctual and faithful 
 in the performance of her duties. This venerable 
 lady still lives, and her children imitate the example 
 of their honored parents in serving the Church. 
 Many interesting facts are recorded in the old " Min- 
 ute Book," embracing the period from the formation 
 of the Society in 18 19 to 1835, ^d names held in 
 veneration by their descendants are frequently men- 
 tioned. The children and grandchildren of these are 
 still recognized as laboring for the cause of Christ in 
 this and other lands. Verily they " taught these 
 precepts to their children." 
 
 The name of Miss Lydia Bunting (afterward Mrs. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 179 
 
 George Lane) must ever be associated with that of 
 Mrs. Mason in her missionary efforts. Holding the 
 position of Corresponding Secretary for many years, 
 and being zealous for the cause of Christ and the 
 spread of the Redeemer's kingdom, she was ever on 
 the alert to facilitate the plans of the missionaries. 
 Her house was often their home while preparing for 
 their voyages, while with her own hands she labored 
 diligently for their comfort. Mrs. Mason and Mrs. 
 Lane were knit together in holy fellowship, and many, 
 many plans did they together devise and bring before 
 the Board for their approval. 
 
 After Mrs. Lane's removal from the city, Mrs. 
 Mason counted her as one of her valued correspond- 
 ents. A few extracts from these letters will be given 
 in the ensuing pages. 
 
r8o Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 FIVE POINTS MISSION. 
 
 Five Points Mission — Institution for the Aged and Infirm — Bishop 
 Hedding — Extracts from Diary — Her Portrait — Letters to Mrs. 
 Lane. 
 
 About the year 1850 some good brothers and sisters 
 were moved to commence a mission in that notorious 
 locality, the " Five Points." They rented one of the 
 corner rumholes, cleared it out, procured seats, and 
 resolved to open a Sunday-school. Mrs. Mason was 
 solicited to become female Superintendent, her age 
 and experience eminently qualifying her for the posi- 
 tion. In her diary we find the following entry : 
 
 " Sunday, June 9. This morning at nine o'clock 
 went with my son-in-law to commence a Sabbath- 
 school in the center of the Five Points, considered 
 the most abandoned part of the city, where Satan 
 reigns unrestrained." 
 
 Again : 
 
 " Sunday, July 14. In the morning labored at 
 the (Cross-street) Five Points Central Mission ; was 
 much fatigued. 
 
 " Stinday, Aug. 4. Heard good news from the 
 Five Points Mission. Sorry I could not be there. 
 Very unwell and lame. 
 
 " Sunday, Sept. 8. Had a very laborious day at the 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 181 
 
 Five Points. Labored to provide a place of safety 
 for a very bad girl. 
 
 " September 22. Arose early ; went to the Five 
 Points Mission school ; labored there all day regu- 
 lating classes. Many visitors present. I trust a 
 profitable day. My heart ached to see the sin of in- 
 temperance so prevailing. In two blocks through 
 'which I walked in every house there was a grog- 
 shop. I believe there is more rum drank than 
 water. 
 
 " October 6. Attended at the Five Points, and had 
 a very interesting school morning and afternoon. 
 
 " October 13. Attended Five Points Mission School 
 all day. Evening heard Dr. J. M'Clintock in a Sab- 
 bath-school address. 
 
 " October 27. At the Mission all day. Had a very 
 laborious time, but, I trust, not without profit to my- 
 self and others. 
 
 " Sunday, Nov. 3. Had a very full and orderly 
 school. O for spiritual fruit ! 
 
 "Sunday, Dec. 15. Attended at the Sunday-school 
 at the Five Points all day. We had- a very large 
 school after the festival of Thanksgiving, when two 
 hundred children were regaled with most of the 
 good things of the season. By the help of the Lord 
 I hope I have rescued two females from moral de- 
 struction, one of them a minister's daughter from 
 England. 
 
 " Sunday, Dec. 22. Too unwell to go out in the 
 morning. .Went to Five Points in the afternoon. 
 Rescued two females, and had them sent to the 
 
1 82 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 Magdalene. Came home in a storm of snow and 
 rain." 
 
 Thus Mrs. Mason's labors at the Mission closed 
 for the year. 
 
 The first Sabbath of 185 1 finds the female super- 
 . intendent at her post. She writes : 
 
 " Sunday, Jan. 5. Spent the whole day at the 
 Five Points Mission School. Too tired to go out in 
 the evening. 
 
 " January 12. Attended at the Five Points. Res- 
 cued, we trust, two abandoned females. Sent them 
 to the Magdalene. May the Spirit of the Lord bring 
 them to the foot of the cross ! 
 
 " January 19. Spent the day at the Points. Some 
 evidence that we do not labor in vain, nor spend our 
 strength for naught. To God be all the glory ! 
 Amen. 
 
 " January 26. Spent at the Points. 
 
 " February 2. Attended at the Mission in the after- 
 noon. A profitable season. There appears to be an 
 increased interest among the people in the salvation 
 of their souls. 
 
 " February 9. Went to the Mission, though a 
 very stormy day. Soon after we commenced school 
 Mr. P. called me into his house to see one of the 
 women who had dropped dead. She was a reformed 
 inebriate,- and, we think, truly converted. 
 
 "Sunday, Feb. 16. A very interesting day. Pro- 
 vide4 for a poor girl who had been sold to sin by her 
 mother. She is confined from work with a poor sick 
 infant. She is, indeed, a daughter of affliction. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 183 
 
 " February 23. Attended at the Five Points. So 
 many pressing cases we hardly knew what to do with 
 them. None but an arm strong as Omnipotence can 
 stop this current of vice. 
 
 "Wednesday, Feb. 26. Last evening met Teachers' 
 Association of the Five Points. Determined on es- 
 tablishing prayer-meetings in different places. May 
 the Lord bless the effort ! Amen and amen. 
 
 " Sunday, March 2. Quite unwell yet. Tried to 
 gain strength by resting all the morning. In the 
 afternoon had a blessed time in prayer-meeting with 
 some of my sisters and twenty-five reformed women 
 at the Five Points. Lord, bless this effort ! 
 
 "March 9. Attended Sabbath-school at the Five 
 Points. Things not so encouraging as formerly. 
 We want more steady laborers. 
 
 "March 16. Very stormy this morning. Had my 
 heart much drawn out in family prayer for three 
 young men — criminals — one sentenced to death, one 
 to State Prison for life, and one for fifteen years ; all 
 under twenty-one, and from the Five Points. Held 
 a prayer-meeting with the women under the care of 
 the Mission. Thirty were present, and showed much 
 feeling. 
 
 " Sunday, March 30. Sick all day. 
 
 "April 13. Not well enough to go to Five Points. 
 
 " Sunday, May 1 1. At the Five Points. Afternoon 
 school small and discouraging. Strong Roman Cath- 
 olic influence opposing our efforts. Classes of female 
 adults very attentive ; about thirty present. Was 
 blessed in speaking to them. 
 
184 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " Sunday, May 18. At Five Points. Quite an im- 
 provement in the appearance of the school and Bible 
 classes. Teachers and others organize a Sunday- 
 school association. 
 
 " Sunday, yune 1 . Attended at the Points all day. 
 The school appeared well. Brother Luckey, the mis- 
 sionary appointed by the Conference, entered upon 
 his labors." 
 
 A few weeks after the above entry Mrs. Mason left 
 the school, having the satisfaction of seeing it firmly 
 established under a devoted Board of Officers and 
 Teachers. On the eighteenth a vote of thanks was 
 passed by them " for her very efficient services during 
 the past year," a copy of which was forwarded her by 
 the secretary, and was found filed among her papers. 
 
 Mrs. Mason's activity in the new work will be seen 
 from the following extract, taken from a journal kept 
 by the first superintendent : 
 
 " Mrs. Mason was active during both morning and 
 afternoon sessions. I could but remark how strange 
 that she, who had been the Superintendent of the 
 first Methodist Sabbath-school more than thirty 
 years ago, was now found in her old age harnessing 
 on the armor afresh for another warfare on nearly 
 the same battle-ground." 
 
 The reader of the foregoing pages will remember 
 that Mrs. Mason's first efforts in the Sunday-school 
 were in the Association school, corner of Chatham- 
 street and Tryon Row, but a short distance from 
 Cross-street, the scene of the present Five Points 
 Mission, around which locality she had often visited 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 185 
 
 in her duties connected with the " Female Assistance 
 Society." 
 
 In another part of the journal we find again allu- 
 sion to Mrs. Mason. The Superintendent is giving 
 portraits of her colaborers : " Need I say any thing 
 of Mrs. Mason, whose whole life has been devoted to 
 benevolent works ? In her character of Female Su- 
 perintendent she supports a dignity and manifests a 
 love of order for which she is remarkable, and which 
 are felt and seen in the constantly improving charac- 
 ter of the girls. She also finds time to visit many of 
 the poor." 
 
 The above record shows how earnestly Mrs. Mason 
 labored for the degraded and fallen even in her ad- 
 vancing years, setting an example worthy of imitation 
 to those who " dwell at ease in Zion," contenting 
 tlfcnnselves with efforts long since past. Those who * 
 look on now and see the firm basis on which the 
 Mission on the site of the " Old Brewery " is placed, 
 and how prosperity and the blessing of the Lord (so 
 often and earnestly prayed for) has attended the 
 effort then begun in feebleness, must surely exclaim 
 with thankful hearts, " What hath God wrought ! " g 
 
 Although Mrs. Mason kept no regular journal for 
 some years before her decease, many items of interest, 
 together with frequent reference to her spiritual exer- 
 cises, are found recorded in her pocket diaries, which 
 were her inseparable companions in her daily round 
 of duties. Indeed, these serve as an index to the life 
 of actjpity she led, being largely occupied with details 
 of various society matters, as well as domestic affairs. 
 
Life ef Mr: Masen. 
 
 A :*r women. One 
 
 ;er, sufft~ Lvared to 
 
 A:; - r-r* :: :".: ::•:" Vi=:tri A . r- :.".-.-. ; A". 
 
 - - . - 
 
 house. A pleasant time. 
 
 "March 23. Spent a very feasant evenfng with 
 
 - 
 m Newark. 
 
 : 
 
 c rupied by worldly 
 :?_; ;.A : ir. A •: e" -:.v - r 
 
 blessed in m : agh my mind 
 
 ': 
 
 ...'.. A. . . 
 
 s 
 
 ; V - . " \ 
 
 iontheunde- 
 
 ed an afflicted friend in Brooklyn, 
 A of the death of her eldest son, 
 
 " . . . '. . . -: 
 
 : r A ; '. .' 
 
 with ' 12 with ch great 4W-. 
 
 :?*z*fer I. A and 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 remained till after she died. She expressed her - 
 dependence in her heavenly Father, and the Lord 
 Jesus Christ her Saviour, to the last moment. 
 
 " Dea 5 This afternoon attended the funeral 
 
 of J. ML H — 's mother, who died trhimphanl 
 seventy-six. 
 
 "December 17. A meeting of young ladw 
 Greene-street to form a sewing society, to make 
 clothes for poor children. 
 
 "Dm : Christmas day. H; - embly 
 
 of all my children and grand children, (except : 
 with cousins Mary and Susan. A very pleasant and, 
 I think, profitable season." 
 
 INSTITUTION FOR AGED AND INF'.: 
 
 The welfare of the aged had ever been with Mrs. 
 Mason a matter of importance. Especially when she 
 saw aged Christians in want and suffering, her sym- 
 pathies were deeply moved. During the white - 
 1S50 she was called to reflect on the subject more 
 intensely than ever. T... - much did iteng ss 
 
 her mind, that her nights were disturbed bv her b 
 thoughts, trying to devise some plan :ent 
 
 relief for these he! ess es Without max 
 known her thoughts to any one. she concluded it 
 could only be done by concentration 
 Church bearing its pari 
 
 this in the most economic e manner, 
 
 these aged mus amily. Kb 
 
 aried bene iterprises which en- 
 
 tire Church in th - g 
 
1 88 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Masott. 
 
 she almost feared to propose another. But the bur- 
 den was so laid upon her heart that she could not 
 rest. Mrs. Farr, a member of Greene-street, called 
 to see Mrs. Mason, to confer with her upon the same 
 subject, which had been agitating her mind also. 
 Finding that their hearts were one in the matter, they 
 mutually agreed to try and enlist others. The project 
 soon found favor among those most familiar with the 
 persons intended to be benefited. A meeting of sis- 
 ters was held, and a committee appointed, as we find 
 by an entry in Mrs. Mason's diary : 
 
 " April i. Met Committee of Seven, to prepare plan 
 for the Home for Aged and Infirm of our Church. 
 A pleasant meeting." 
 
 Shortly after this the Society was formed under 
 the name of " Ladies' Union Aid Society of the 
 Methodist Episcopal Church, in the city of New 
 York, for the benefit of the Aged and Infirm Members." 
 Mrs. Mason entered zealously into this new work. 
 Many preliminaries had to be adjusted, and many 
 conferences held before the plan was perfected. Mrs. 
 Mason was one of a committee to draft the constitu- 
 tion. Much pains was taken to make it suit the 
 wants of all concerned. Managers were chosen from 
 each Church, seventy in all, constituting the Board. 
 Thus was commenced that noble work to which Mrs. 
 Mason devoted herself with unflagging interest for 
 more than half a score of years. 
 
 During the summer of 1850, Mrs. Mason, while on 
 a visit to Poughkeepsie, called on the venerable 
 Bishop Hedding, who received her with great cor- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 189 
 
 diality. He conversed with her in reference to the 
 objects and aims of the newly formed " Aid Society," 
 to which he gave his hearty approval. On parting, 
 the Bishop exhorted Mrs. Mason to persevere in the 
 good works in which she was engaged. She replied, 
 " If the Lord spares my life ten years longer I expect 
 to do more than I ever did in any other ten years of 
 my life." Her expectations were not disappointed, 
 for very busy years they were. We find now fre- 
 quent mention in her diary of the affairs of the " In- 
 tistution," both as regards its public and domestic 
 management. Under date of Oct. 7 she writes : 
 
 " Spent most of the day in taking a house for the 
 ■ Ladies Union Aid.' 
 
 "October 12. Assisted in engaging house for So- 
 ciety in Horatio-street 
 
 " December 9. Rode to the Institute ; found eleven 
 inmates, all apparently well and happy. 
 
 "December 13. Met committee at Horatio-street. 
 Found three of our inmates sick. Sent for a doctor." 
 
 So we see a house had been opened for the recep- 
 tion of these helpless ones, and Mrs. Mason rejoiced to 
 see the relief afforded them under its comfortable roof. 
 
 " Thursday, Feb. 21, 1850. Met Female Benevolent 
 Society ; a very full meeting. Received $50, collected 
 for the sufferers at the Hague-street calamity. 
 
 "Feb. 27. Attended Missionary prayer meeting. A 
 good meeting. 
 
 "March 5. Attended special meeting of Asylum 
 for Lying-in-Women, to prepare for anniversary. 
 
 " Thursday, March 7. Met Female Missionary So- 
 
190 Life of Mrs. Mary W Mason. 
 
 ciety ; a stormy afternoon, but pleasant meeting. In 
 the evening met Female Benevolent Society. 
 
 "Sunday, March 10. Attended sacrament of the 
 Lord's Supper in the afternoon. In the evening 
 heard a solemn discourse from our Pastor, D. Smith, 
 on the judgment. 
 
 "Friday, March 15. Cut out forty flannel garments 
 for infants, for the Young Ladies' Sewing Society to 
 make up. 
 
 " Wednesday, March 20. Attended select prayer 
 meeting at Sister M'Clain's; was blessed in taking up 
 my cross to pray and speak. 
 
 "April^. Met Female Missionary Society. The 
 annual meeting.. Very pleasant and profitable. 
 Amount collected through the year, #600-78. 
 
 "Friday, April 5. This day my old friend Mrs. 
 Scott was buried. A great loss to society, especially 
 to the poor. 
 
 " yune 16. My friend, E. M. Verplanck, left to-day, 
 after spending a fortnight with us pleasantly, and I 
 trust profitably. 
 
 "August. Very unwell, and too lame to walk to 
 church. Grieved to see sin abound in the best in- 
 structed families. 
 
 " September. Attended at class with a very 
 oppressed spirit, in consequence of a severe trial. 
 Visited some of my class-mates who are very 
 sick. 
 
 " Wednesday, Oct. 16. Attended l'ove-feast, had a 
 blessed season. I was enabled to speak for the Lord 
 with comfort to my own soul. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 191 
 
 "December 24. Met Board of Lying-in-Asylum ; 
 found the house in beautiful order. The inmates and 
 their infants all well. ' We must try to raise money. 
 We are $300 in debt. 
 
 "January 2, 185 1. Board of Female Benevolent 
 Society met at my house. A large and profitable 
 meeting. 
 
 11 January 3. Met Nominating Committee and 
 Board of Managers of Ladies' Union Aid. 
 
 " January 7. Attended the funeral of my dear 
 young friend, Caroline Thorn, who died very happy 
 in the Lord. 
 
 "February 3. I was happy to learn that J. C, the 
 young woman who lives with me, is earnestly seeking 
 religion. Thank the Lord ! 
 
 "February 6. Met class. Had a precious season. 
 Spent a pleasant and, I trust, a profitable day. 
 
 "February 7. Spent all day in business for the 
 Institution. 
 
 "February 17. Spent most of the day in visiting 
 the house of mourning and among the sick. One 
 who was present when I was converted died yester- 
 day. No evidence of conversion. O that she had 
 been wise ! 
 
 "February 19. Heard Brother Hedstrom in the 
 evening at Greene-street. Three souls converted. 
 
 " February 24. Was called to attend the funeral of 
 the daughter of the person who died on the 16th. 
 She left a husband and six children, one an infant. 
 
 "February 25. Visited again the house of mourn- 
 ing. It was indeed a melancholy picture. 
 
:>2 Lift c/ 
 
 "May j i admission 
 
 .... 
 
 .... 
 
 at with it; 
 pleased 
 
 art ; frr t>. 
 
 . , .. 
 
 '•'as hmm: 
 ■ 
 
 Vie was in 
 
 • - 
 
 ■ 
 
 eland at 
 
 'V 
 
 Awake, thou that sleepest/ d 
 
Mrs. Maty li: Mason, 193 
 
 "Heard Mrs, Whittlesey lecture to the ladies of 
 Oberlin on 'Christian Education. 1 
 
 tday, Sept. 28, Sick most of the day. In great 
 heaviness of spirit, groaning for the redemption of 
 my children. 
 
 ••.\,., ,\ 1 Heard Brother Lane in the after- 
 noon and Brother Stocking in the evening. Both 
 wi v profitable, 
 
 \ -. 10. Staved home all daw Rainy, 
 
 Afflicted in body and dejected in mind. O, my bless- 
 ed 1 .ord. deliver me ! 
 
 1 ameness au<\ indisposition pre- 
 vented my going out till late in the afternoon, when 
 
 l attended the funeral services of Rev, G. lane's 
 child, a lovely little girl ten years old, who. we be- 
 lieve, died in the 1 ord. 
 
 \\m\ the Hoard of Benevolent Soci- 
 ety meet at mv house to tea ; thirty live were present. 
 
 \ \ei\ pleas. uu season. Closed with prayer by 
 Brother Stocking, our Pastor, 
 
 jo Attended funeral of Brother Dando, 
 an eld membei of John-street Church, lie was 
 eighty four years old. lie died full of years and be- 
 loved by all:' 
 
 This year, 1852, was a marked period in Mis 
 Mason's life, as being the one in which she ceased 
 
 hei labels as .1 teaeher She had been engaged in 
 
 this vocation, with but few interruptions, tor , 
 
 forty years, SO that it almost seemed a part of her 
 
 hte Probably but few instances are on record of any 
 
 female who had had so many youth under her charge, 
 1 1 
 
194 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 or of one who had so long and so successfully dis- 
 charged the duties of the school-room. The grati- 
 tude and affectionate remembrance of her pupils, 
 even after grown to womanhood, were often a pleas- 
 ing solace to her. Mrs. Mason, being now released 
 from these almost life-long duties, devoted her time 
 more exclusively, and with never-flagging zeal, to 
 the interests of the various institutions in which she 
 was engaged. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM DIARY CONTINUED. 
 
 "March 4, 1852. Met Board of Lying-in-Asylum. 
 We received from an anonymous friend a donation 
 of one thousand dollars. Attended prayer-meeting 
 at the ■' Institution.' A good time. 
 
 "March 12. Heard Brother Stocking preach in 
 the evening, and then prayer-meeting. Sorry to 
 feel so dull myself, and see others take so little 
 interest. 
 
 " Sunday y March 29. Sick all day ; confined to my 
 bed wifh congestion of the lungs. Happy in the 
 midst of pain. 
 
 "April 3. Through mercy am able to get part way 
 down stairs. 
 
 " April 4. Met Board' of Managers of Ladies' Union 
 Aid Society. Was taken almost from my bed to a 
 carriage. Though feeble, I was, through Christ 
 strengthening me, enabled to meet a large meeting 
 and direct its business. It was a very pleasant and 
 profitable meeting. 
 
 " Sunday \ April 20. A -very rainy day ; did not go 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 195 
 
 out, but enjoyed the presence and grace of God in 
 reading, meditation, and private devotions. 
 
 " Friday, May 9. Met Purchasing Committee and 
 Board of Direction. Heard a good sermon from Dr. 
 Mitchell, from the words 'Be perfect.' 
 
 "Monday, May 12. Young Ladies' Sewing Society 
 met at my house to sew for Colored Orphan Asylum. 
 '"May 16. Had a family party on account of the 
 presence of my cousin, -Rev. John Morgan, of Ober- 
 lin, Ohio. Had a very pleasant and, I trust, profit- 
 able season. Closed with a suitable prayer by my 
 cousin.. 
 
 "Sunday, May 17. Heard Brother Foster three 
 times. Powerful in the evening on Daniel xii, 3. 
 My soul was strengthened and comforted. 
 
 " Monday, May i 8. The general love-feast in Allen- 
 street Church. Glorious on account of the Divine 
 presence. 
 
 "November 2. Met Board of Managers of Lying- 
 in-Asylum. # 
 
 "November 1 1. Attended class ; very comforting. 
 
 "November 14. Did not go out in the morning 
 Read Watson on the Lord's Supper. Afternoon, at- 
 tended the Communion. 
 
 December 5. Attended funeral of Mrs. Galabran, 
 aged seventy-two, a pensioner on Female Benevolent 
 Society nine years. Heard Rev. Mr. Foster in the 
 evening, ' On the Image of God in the Heart.' A 
 very profitable discourse. 
 
 " Tuesday, Dec. 7. A very busy day. Visited In- 
 stitution and gave out work. Attended sewing meet- 
 
196 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 ing for the 'Fair' at Manhattanville. Spoke and 
 assisted in organizing a society." 
 
 During this year Mrs. Mason, in company with a 
 committee from the " Ladies' Union Aid Society," 
 visited Baltimore for the purpose of examining a 
 building which had been erected for charitable pur- 
 poses. Eventually a plan similar to this was adopted 
 for the "Home" afterward erected in Forty-second-* 
 street. 
 
 "January 27, 1853. Attended class. No leader. 
 Had to take up the cross and lead the class myself. 
 We had a good meeting, and my soul was greatly 
 comforted. 
 
 "Friday, Jan. 28. This day two young men, Saul 
 and.Howlet, were hung for murder. I fear unpre- 
 pared for death. 
 
 " Sunday, Jan. 30. Afternoon attended the funeral 
 services of Robert Stead, an old member. He died 
 suddenly, full of faith, blessing his family, and prais- 
 ing God. 
 
 "Monday, Jan. 31. Enjoyed a very profitable and 
 delightful meeting at Greene-street Church. Related 
 my early experience, but I fear with very little profit 
 to others. I cannot speak deliberately enough to 
 please myself. 
 
 " February 3. Visited' ' Graham Institute for Re- 
 spectable Aged Women ' in Brooklyn. I was much 
 pleased with its air of comfort. 
 
 "Sunday, Feb. 6. Heard Rev. R. S. Foster on 
 ' Original Sin.' Very rainy day. Did not go out 
 again, but improved the day in reading Wesley's 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 197 
 
 Sermons and the Bible in connection with the ser- 
 mon in the morning. 
 
 "April 1. With Building Committee visited the 
 ground on which we purpose building our Institution 
 for the Aged. 
 
 "April 14. Met in annual meeting of Lying-in 
 Asylum. Small meeting, and rainy day. The asy- 
 lum was never in so flourishing a condition as 
 now. 
 
 " May 12. Attended anniversary of American Bible 
 Society. A very interesting meeting. Afternoon 
 attended anniversary at the • Home of the Friend- 
 less.' Many ladies spoke, and on request, I gave my 
 experience in training children religiously. Met 
 there ^my friend Sarah Hawkshurst, with whom I la- 
 bored forty years ago. 
 
 The following note has been found filed among 
 Mrs. Mason's papers : 
 
 " New York, July 20, 1853. 
 
 " Dear Sister Mason, — A number of your friends 
 wishing to express in some permanent form the sen- 
 timent of respect and esteem they entertain for you 
 personally, as well as their appreciation of the services 
 you have rendered in various departments of Chris- 
 tian benevolence, unite in asking the favor of your 
 sitting for your portrait to grace the walls of the con- 
 templated building for the aged and infirm members 
 of our Church. Should you wish to make any com- 
 munication with the parties concerned, who for the 
 present, at least, desire to remain incognito, it can be 
 
198 Life of Mrs. Mary W.Mason. 
 
 done through Mr. Pine by addressing ' The Commit- 
 tee of Ladies from several Churches.' " 
 
 " Sunday, July 25. This morning Rev. R. S. Fos- 
 ter commenced his ministry at Greene-street. 
 
 " Sunday, Aug. 22. Attended prayer-meeting in 
 Allen-street ; a good and profitable meeting. An 
 unexpected visit from T. N. C. I trust the Spirit of 
 the Lord is at work on his heart. Took him to 
 meeting. Heard Bro. Foster on the judgment. Good. 
 
 "August 23. Alone on Receiving Committee at ' Ly- 
 ing-in-Asylum.' Took up a poor young woman off 
 the steps stupidly drunk, and almost naked. She 
 was a Catholic. Took her to the ' Sisters of Mercy,' 
 but they would not shelter her till she got sober. 
 
 "August 24. Called with J. M. H. to make ar- 
 rangements with Mr. Pine for taking my portrait. 
 Some friends unknown to me have engaged it." 
 
 "August 28. Met Building Committee. Resolved 
 to recommend purchasing four lots. 
 
 " September 12. Heard Brother Foster from Isaiah 
 lxiv, 1. Sacrament in the afternoon, at which two of 
 my sons were received in the Church, with many 
 more youth. 
 
 " October 1. Met managers of Ladies' Union Aid 
 Society. A large and interesting meeting. Re- 
 ceived nearly three hundred dollars. 
 
 " October 4. This day closes my service on the Re- 
 ceiving Committee at the Lying-in-Asylum. It has 
 been an arduous but pleasant duty for three months. 
 
 " Thursday, Oct. J. Attended class. Led the class 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 199 
 
 to let Brother Foster attend the funeral of our es- 
 teemed Brother Smith, an aged Class Leader, who 
 sweetly sleeps in Jesus. 
 
 "October 13. Attended meeting of Missionary 
 Board at Mission Rooms. A pleasant and profitable 
 meeting. 
 
 " October 14. Made arrangements for the Lord's 
 Supper at the Ladies' Union Aid Society institution. 
 
 "Sunday, Oct. 16. Had a precious season at the 
 Lord's table with the members of the Institution. 
 Dr. Bangs attended the ordinance, and twenty-six of 
 the aged and infirm drew near or were helped to the 
 Lord's table. Some blind, deaf, maimed, and lame. 
 
 " Sunday, Oct. 30. Having sat up watching with 
 the sick infant of a young friend, I was not able to go 
 to church. 
 
 " October 31. This evening the funeral services for 
 the little daughter of my young friends took place at 
 their house, Brothers Foster and Reid officiating. 
 
 " November 2. Great missionary demonstration at 
 Metropolitan Hall by the young men of the Method- 
 ist Episcopal Church. Speakers, Rev. Dr. Foster, 
 Rev. Dr. E. Thomson, Bishop Simpson, and Rev. 
 Mr. Taylor. 
 
 November 3. Great meeting at Bedford-street for 
 Ladies' Union Aid Society. Near one thousand 
 dollars received. 
 
 "November 15. Met the general Board. A very 
 laborious, but very pleasant meeting. Elected offi- 
 cers, and Building Committee. Received five hun- 
 dred dollars. 
 
200 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " November 24. Thanksgiving Day'. Heard Brothei 
 Foster in the morning at Greene-street, Collection for 
 Benevolent Society one hundred and sixty dollars, 
 
 " December 24. A family gathering at my house ; 
 in all twenty-four persons. Praise the Lord for his 
 goodness ! I came to this city a lone, feeble girl, 
 forty-three years ago, and now I am spread into 
 bands. 
 
 "December 25. Spent at with all the 
 
 young folks of the different families. A merry 
 group. We had a large Christmas tree lighted 
 with wax tapers, and a gift hung on it for each, old 
 and young. 
 
 "January 1, 1854. Received the calls of my 
 friends, as the practice is, but spread no table to in- 
 vite to luxury and intemperance. I never saw the 
 evil of keeping the day in the manner in which it is 
 kept in New York as I did to-day. 
 
 "February 12. Communion Sabbath in Greene- 
 street. I was very much blessed. There were a 
 large number present. 
 
 "March 19. Spent a very happy Sabbath in John- 
 street Church. It was a reunion of the laborers in 
 the first Sabbath-school efforts in the Methodist 
 Episcopal Church in this city. The exercises of the 
 day were very interesting to me. They ended in* 
 the sacrament being administered at night 
 
 "March 23. Met Benevolent Society. Reports 
 of some very distressing cases ; funds exhausted, and 
 treasury in debt. Resolved to appeal for a collec- 
 tion. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 201 
 
 "March 24. Visited a sick sister near to death. 
 Engaged a nurse for a friend. 
 
 "March 27. Went to the house of mourning. 
 
 "March 28. Finished a letter to Mrs. Wilkins, Li- 
 beria. Expect her here very soon. At six o'clock 
 attended the funeral of my friend, Mrs. J. B. C. 
 
 "April 6. Met Benevolent Society. An interesting 
 meeting. Received a bequest from Sister J. B. C. 
 of over six hundred dollars. Passed a resolution of 
 sympathy with the family. 
 
 " June 4. Heard our new Pastor, Brother Her- 
 mance, with much profit afternoon and evening. I 
 hope he will be profitable to the Greene-street 
 Church. 
 
 " June 15. Received present of mats»from Africa 
 from Mrs. Wilkins. Heard of the death of a friend, 
 with whom I was in company but a few days before. 
 ' Be ye also ready.' 
 
 "September II. At seven o'clock left for Mount 
 Holly, N. J., with Mrs. Wilkins from Africa, to visit 
 our mutual friend, Sister Lane. 
 
 " November 1 1. To-day Grandmother Cairns died in 
 holy triumph at the Institution. 
 
 "November 12. To-day my cousin, John Morgan, 
 Pastor and Professor at Oberlin, came to visit me. 
 Spent a pleasant evening. 
 
 "March 2, 1855. At twelve o'clock met Board of 
 Ladies' Union Aid Society. A large and pleasant 
 meeting. Collection ninety-nine dollars and fifty 
 cents. Leased house for two years. Five old la- 
 dies sick abed. Spoke to every inmate in the house. 
 
202 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 Returned too unwell to sit up, and went to bed as 
 soon as I reached home. 
 
 "March 9. Met Committee of Applications to the 
 Institution. Three very urgent cases represented, 
 one each from Bedford, Duane, and Allen street 
 Churches. Found we had not a place for any more. 
 
 "March 18. Heard Rev. Mr.; 's description 
 
 of the Household of Faith. Good, but he would 
 have more freedom without notes. 
 
 "March 19. Visited Brother and Sister Gibson, 
 missionaries to China. Attended to arrangements 
 for anniversary of Female Missionary Society. 
 
 "March 23. _ Met Missionary Board. Meeting ad- 
 dressed by missionary from Japan, Dr. Bettelheim. 
 
 " March *2)0. Visited Sister , who is in 
 
 deep sorrow of heart. Sympathized with her, advised 
 and prayed with her, committed her case to God, 
 who alone knoweth how to deliver the righteous out 
 of temptation, or make a way for their escape. 
 
 "April 2. Met Missionary Committee at Sister 
 Barrett's. At twelve o'clock met Board at Asylum. 
 An interesting meeting. 
 
 " Wedjzesday, April 4. In the evening our anniver- 
 sary of the Missionary Society in Jane-street was 
 well attended. Bishop Baker presided. Three mis- 
 sionaries to California, and one to Japan, spoke. Col- 
 lection about one hundred and fifty dollars. 
 
 " April 24. Spent the morning at the Institution 
 with Sister Moore. 
 
 "May 17. Heard with sorrow of the death of my 
 old friend, Sarah Hawkshurst." 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 203 
 
 This venerable and much-beloved Friend was a 
 member of the Female Association, under whose 
 direction were the schools in which Mrs. Mason, as 
 Mary Morgan, took so prominent a part when she first 
 came to the city. Mrs. Hawkshurst, (then Sarah Col- 
 lins,) with her smiling face and loving spirit, was ever 
 a welcome visitor at the schools. In her the wearied 
 and perplexed teacher ever found a kind and sympa- 
 thizing friend. Nor did this friendship end with their 
 earlier years, but even after old age had bowed her 
 form, and when scarcely able to carry her well filled 
 satchel of tracts, (her constant companion in her walks 
 of usefulness,) let her meet her ' dear Mary' where she 
 would, it was followed by an affectionate embrace and 
 tears of joy. 
 
 LETTER TO MRS. L. B. LANE. 
 
 New York, Feb. 21, 1855. 
 
 " My Dear Sister Lane : It is so long since I 
 have heard from you, and remembering I am your 
 debtor for more than one letter, I thought I would 
 employ this leisure evening in writing a few lines to 
 you. All my family are out, most of them at meeting, 
 where I should now be were it not for bodily indis- 
 position. The very severe winter, and more than 
 usual exposure, have made me an invalid with rheu- 
 matism and erysipelas ; but I thank the Lord I am 
 much better, but not able to bear much fatigue, or go 
 out in the night to meetings. 
 
 "When I last heard from you Brother Lane was 
 sick. I hope he has quite recovered. * I often think 
 
204 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 of you in your happy home, and wish myself with you 
 for a little while, to enjoy social intercourse and quiet- 
 ness from the bustle and noise of our sinful and bust- 
 ling Gotham. My soul is pained with every day's 
 report of wrong and outrage with which our city is 
 filled, aye, and the Church too. The money-changers 
 and the buyers and sellers have found their way be- 
 tween the porch and the altar. O that the Lord would 
 visit his temple, and drive out the buyers and sellers ! 
 " But in some of the Churches there is a gracious 
 revival of religion going on. Greene-street is favored 
 with a blessed work. For three weeks there have 
 been meetings, and many conversions among the 
 youths. Many promising young men have been 
 added to the Church. It is delightful to see the altar 
 nearly filled with young men who are the fruits of 
 Brother D. Smith's and Brother Stocking's ministry. 
 You know that our elder brethren have mostly moved 
 away, and the Lord is now filling up the ranks with 
 raw recruits. I am happy to say my son Frank is 
 one of them. He is steadfast in the faith, and I be- 
 lieve is following on to know the Lord with sincerity. 
 We have not yet heard from our dear Sisters who went 
 to Africa, but hope to very soon. Our Missionary 
 Society has been almost inactive, crowded out of the 
 field by the new Missionary organization that is intro- 
 duced into the Churches. But I tell the Sisters, if 
 we cannot reap we may glean, and perhaps enjoy a 
 Ruth's reward. I notified a special meeting of the 
 Board for last Wednesday, but it was a very stormy 
 day, and of course we did not meet. You will please to 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 205 
 
 remember that the first Wednesday in March "will be 
 our Quarterly Meeting. I hope you will be able to 
 favor us with some correspondence ; if no more, a 
 letter from yourself I shall look for. 
 
 " Our Benevolent Society, as you suppose, is very 
 busy this winter. Never, to my recollection, was so 
 much poverty and suffering in New York. We have 
 had to draw on the legacy left us by Sister Cornell, 
 which we intended to reserve for special cases in the 
 Church. We have had to assist many more in the 
 Church, and much more liberally, than formerly. The 
 Steward's fund was exhausted. We miss our beloved 
 Sister Kellogg very much, so many of our efficient 
 sisters have removed. I have thought of some of 
 your pensioners, but do not know where to find them ; 
 but if you think of any whom you wish assisted, let 
 me know in your answer to this, (which I hope I shall 
 soon receive,) and I will attend to them. 
 
 " I visited our Institution this afternoon, and found 
 several of our inmates very sick. Sister Mary Monroe 
 was on Monday deprived of motion in her limbs for 
 some time, though conscious. Our good physician 
 soon discovered the cause, and prescribed the proper 
 remedy ; and this afternoon I found berin a very thank- 
 ful state of mind, and better, but unable to leave her 
 bed. I stepped into old Sister Warren's room, and 
 found her singing ; and on my inquiring how she was 
 she replied, ' I am well, soul and body. I was never 
 better or happier in all my life. O bless the Lord ! ' 
 (Sister Warren is from Greene-street, in her ninetieth 
 year.) But our jewel is removed to the upper Sane- 
 
206 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 tuary. I mean Grandma Cairns. O how I wished 
 Brother Lane could have been with her in the last 
 two days of her life ! Such a death-bed I never saw. 
 It was a holy triumph over the infirmities of age, the 
 tempter's power, and the love of life. It was a con- 
 tinual gust of praise. How often I wished the skeptic 
 could witness this evidence of the power of grace over 
 the imbecilities of human nature. I thought it was 
 the strongest proof of the immortality of the soul. 
 As the clay tenement was falling off, the strength of 
 the immortal inhabitant was renewed like the eagle's. 
 The last day I was sitting behind her (for her breath- 
 ing was so short she could not lie) she broke out in 
 a clear voice, singing the Doxology, ' Praise God,' etc. 
 When she came to the line, ' Praise him above, ye,' etc. 
 her heart overflowed, and she raised her arms and 
 shouted, ' O glory ! I soon shall be with you to sing 
 the song of Moses and the Lamb for ever and ever.' 
 A few hours before the close of life, Sister Adams 
 sent for Brother Wakeley to be with them in the 
 closing scene. The Brothers were singing the hymn, 
 ' We'll range the blessed fields on the banks of the 
 river and sing halleluiahs ; ' here their feelings over- 
 powered utterance, and they thought she would speak 
 no more, but were surprised by her finishing the 
 stanza, ' for ever and ever.' My dear Sister, I thought 
 the honor of letting that aged Pilgrim down so gently 
 into the arms of Death was a sufficient reward for 
 all the labor of getting up that Institution. May our 
 last days be like hers ! With warm affection, your 
 Sister in Christ, " M. W. Mason." 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 207 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 WOMAN'S HOSPITAL. 
 
 Woman's Hospital — Extracts from Diary — Letters to Mrs. Lane — 
 Diary — Dr. Hannah — Death of Miss Mary Bangs — Letters to Mrs. 
 Lane — Diary — Colored Orphan Asylum — Diary — Death of son 
 William. 
 
 In the*early part of 1855 Mrs. Mason was urgently 
 solicited by Dr. J.» Marion Sims to aid in the found- 
 ing of a Hospital for the treatment of diseases pecul- 
 iar to women. Her long experience in visiting the 
 sick, added to her skill in the management of 
 public institutions, made her counsel and co-operation 
 of great value in this untried experiment. Under the 
 blessing of God on the efforts of a few resolute and 
 sympathizing women a house was hired and placed 
 under the medical direction of Dr. Sims. The venera- 
 ble and pious Mrs. Codwise (long known as the Pres- 
 ident of the Female Bible Society) was chosen First 
 Directress, and Mrs. Doremus, the indefatigable 
 worker for the good of others, Second Directress. 
 
 Mrs. Mason, for the six following years, devoted much 
 time to this commendable charity, frequently noticing 
 it in h^ diary. Beingf at the head of the Executive 
 Committee, she had frequent intercourse with the 
 suffering inmates, and many can testify to her words 
 of sympa#y and kind encouragement. Her heart 
 
208 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 rejoiced at the prosperity of the Hospital, and looked 
 forward anxiously for an enlargement of its sphere of 
 usefulness. As Mrs. Mason predicted, a kind Provi- 
 dence has watched over these efforts to alleviate hu- 
 man suffering, and now a large and capacious build- 
 ing, with all necessary appointments, adorns the upper 
 part of the city. In a recent address of Dr. Sims 
 before the Annual Meeting, he refers with fervent 
 gratitude to the assistance given by Mrs. D. Codwise 
 and Mrs. Mason in the earlier years of the Society. 
 Mrs. Mason's name was retained on the Board of 
 Managers till her decease. 
 
 EXTRACTS FROM DIARY. 
 
 "Nov. 30. Thanksgiving. Our pastor gave us a 
 profitable discourse in the morning. Took collection 
 for Benevolent Society. Dined with my family. 
 
 " Dec. 3. Accompanied by my son, went to Greene- 
 street. Heard xA.bel Stevens plead the Tract cause. 
 A very stormy day. Did not go out again. Read 
 Wesley's Sermon on Justification by Faith with 
 profit. 
 
 "Feb. 11, 1855. Sacrament — a profitable season. 
 Evening meeting very interesting. Nearly the whole 
 altar in Greene-street Church surrounded by 
 mourners. 
 
 "Feb. 10. Subscribed to Ladies' Society for J^emale 
 Hospital, and was elected manager. 
 
 " Feb. 24. Met at the Board of Managers for Hos- 
 pital for Women. Large and interesting^meeting. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. % Mason. 209 
 
 Meet again first Saturday in March at the house of 
 Mrs. Codwise, Directress. 
 
 "March 3. Arose from a sick-bed to meet Board 
 of Woman's Hospital. An amiable arrangement of 
 a difficult question. Good progress. 
 
 "May 5. Attended meeting of Managers of Wo- 
 man's Hospital. Opened the house with three 
 patients. 
 
 "May 31. Spent the morning in business for the 
 Woman's Hospital, preparing for anniversary. 
 
 " yune 12. At Woman's Hospital Great bodily 
 suffering ; but, thank the Lord ! there is evidence of 
 relief, by the efficient treatment of Dr. Sims, whom 
 the Lord has qualified for this work. 
 
 "yune 13. Met Board of Female Missionary So- 
 ciety. Small meeting and little interest. O that the 
 Lord would revive the missionary spirit among us. 
 
 " yune 14. Too much engaged in important busi- 
 ness to attend class. My mind has been kept calm 
 in the' midst of confusion. 
 
 " Sunday. Heard sermon from . I would prefer 
 
 hearing Gospel preaching fresh from the heart, and 
 not from notes written studiedly. 
 
 " yune 24. Too rainy for any to go to church. 
 Read all day, but prayed too little and talked too 
 much. 
 
 " yuly 5. This is my sixty-fourth birthday. What 
 a monument of Divine mercy ! A living miracle of 
 grace ! 
 
 " yuly 7. Went to see a stone to be set over the 
 graves of our two aged grandmammas who died in 
 14 
 
2IO Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 the institution, one 104 years and the other 117 years 
 old. This stone, with the lot in Greenwood, is the 
 gift of an unknown friend. 
 
 " Sunday. Awoke in a happy frame of mind. Sacra- 
 ment and baptism in the afternoon. Too tired to go 
 out in the evening. Improved the time reading 
 Watson's Observations. 
 
 " July 1 5 . Took tea in company with my good 
 friend Brother Stratten. Heard him preach in the 
 evening from the parable of the ■ Lost sheep.' I was 
 much blessed under his discourse. 
 
 " July 29. Went to a pewed Methodist Episcopal 
 Church. Congregation small — so small that if every 
 individual occupied a pew there would be many pews 
 to spare. I made an attempt to enter three, but they 
 were bolted. I shrunk back to the paupers' seat 
 abashed. The preacher in prayer said, ' This is the 
 house of God.' I thought, ' If it is I am shut out.' 
 
 " July 30. A stormy day in the elements abroad — 
 a day of trial to patience at home ; but out of all the 
 Lord delivereth. 
 
 " Aug. 8. Went with Cousin Susan Holden to 
 visit our mutual friend Mary Carpenter at Pleasant- 
 ville. Met with a cordial welcome. 
 
 "Aug. 9. Read aloud and conversed on religious 
 subjects all day. Was blessed in my own soul, and I 
 hope was the means, of leading others to seek the 
 like blessing. 
 
 " Aug. 10. Walked abroad, and enjoyed a happy 
 day in communion with my friends. Felt a holy in 
 fluence accompanying our social intercourse. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 2 1 1 
 
 "Aug. 11. Returned and found my family well. 
 Was informed of the death, in the Institution, of our 
 aged Sister Smart. Made arrangements for the 
 funeral. 
 
 "Aug. 13. My Sister J. arrived from Philadelphia. 
 A pleasant surprise. 
 
 " Sept. 1. Received from C. Bleecker check for 
 Woman's Hospital, $25. 
 
 "Sept. 15. Visited Woman's Hospital. Very 
 prosperous. 
 
 " Sept. 30. Heard Elder Rice in the morning on 
 Psalm xxxiv, 7. Wrote to sisters in Africa. 
 
 " Oct. 7. Heard a sermon, an exhortation to back- 
 sliders — read, alas ! Read Watson's Commentary in 
 the evening, thinking I might as well read at home 
 as to be listening to reading in church. 
 
 " Oct. 8. Met Committee of Arrangements for annual 
 meeting of Lady's Uuion Aid. 
 
 " Oct. 9. Visited the Graham Institute for Old 
 Ladies in Brooklyn. All very pleasant. Heavily 
 in debt. 
 
 " Oct. 18. Not able to go to see my young friend 
 A. W. married. Could not attend class nor Board 
 meeting, but had a great blessing at home. Praise 
 the Lord ! 
 
 " Oct. 19. Went to Institution, though I had been 
 sick with lung affection all the week. 
 
 "Sunday, Oct. 21. Spent the day solitary in my 
 sick room, not being able to go out. Enjoyed much 
 comfort in contemplating the sufferings of my 
 Saviour. 
 
212 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " Oct. y8. Too sick to go out, but spent a happy 
 day in reading, meditation, and prayer. 
 
 "Nov. 2. Board meeting at Institution. Decided 
 to purchase lot adjoining ours in Forty-second-street. 
 
 " Nov. 4. Rainy. Not well enough to go out. 
 Spent the day in reading in Matthew, with Watson's 
 Observations. Was profited and comforted. 
 
 "Nov. 8. Met Committee of Ladies' Union Aid 
 Society to sign bond to Mr. Seaman. 
 
 " Nov. 14. Spent most of the day in domestic 
 work. Felt very depressed in sphgt. Tried to look 
 to Jesus. 
 
 "Nov. 15. Attended class — was blessed." 
 
 "New York, Feb. 10, 1856. 
 
 " My Very Dear Sister Lane : Having an 
 evening all to myself, I concluded I could not employ 
 it better than in writing to my dear friend. And 
 what more immediately turned my thoughts toward 
 you and Brother Lane was a sermon I heard from 
 our Rev. and beloved friend, Dr. Bangs, on the death 
 of that indefatigable soldier of Christ and successful 
 missionary to the Canada Indians, Elder Henry Case. 
 You have no doubt heard the sad news. This man 
 of God fell from his horse and broke his leg, which 
 disaster was the cause of his death. Brother Bangs's 
 text was John xi, 25. He gave a sketch of the colabor- 
 ers of Brother Case and himself, with an account of 
 the religious experience, character, and life of our 
 lamented friend. His day was not cloudless, but 
 his sun set mildly and brilliantly. His mild, perse- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 213 
 
 vering course in the Christian ministry and mission- 
 ary field have left a halo of experience which will 
 cheer many a weary laborer who may succeed him in 
 this section of the Lord's vineyard. May our end 
 be as serene and peaceful ! 
 
 " But to change my subject. I did not intend to 
 dwell upon this melancholy event. How is my dear 
 Sister Lane ? I was sorry to learn that your health 
 was not very good this winter. I would gladly have 
 made you a short visit with our friends, but my health 
 has kept me closely at home. I hope my dear 
 Sister Lane is growing in grace, and in the knowl- 
 edge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The 
 present state of the Church in New York, and, indeed, 
 I may say throughout our Zion, is calculated to 
 shake our confidence in our own experience, as well 
 as in that of others. Our doctrines and our dis- 
 cipline are in jeopardy ; and our hearts are sad, and 
 tremble for the result. But / am endeavoring to stay 
 myself upon my God and his word, which is the only 
 standard of faith, and the only sure foundation for 
 practice. O ! let us study it prayerfully and diligently, 
 not leaning to our own understanding, or turning 
 out of the way by the counter-reasoning of contend- 
 ing disputants, but giving ourselves to earnest prayer, 
 that our heavenly Father will be to us his own inter- 
 preter and make it plain. Let us not be anxious to 
 find a name for our experience of this grace given 
 unto us. But if it makes us happy in the love of 
 God, and causes us to glorify him in our spirits and 
 our bodies, which are his, it is enough. 
 
214 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " Blessed Bible ! this is the Gospel glass, in which 
 we see ourselves, and see ' our calling's glorious hope/ 
 ' holiness to the Lord/ Let us press after this mark 
 of our high calling of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. 
 I fear so much has been written in man's wisdom on 
 tliis subject that it has darkened counsel, and ob- 
 scured this most glorious doctrine of the Church to 
 the minds of many sincere inquirers. I am happy to 
 inform you and Brother Lane that we have a glorious 
 revival in Greene-street. The altar and front benches 
 in the lecture-room are crowded with anxious seek- 
 ers, and there are conversions more or less every 
 evening. I would you could be with us. 
 
 " But now, dear, let me call your attention to our 
 Female Missionary Society. We are sadly behind 
 in this work. The plan of sectional collections in 
 the churches has almost crowded us out of sight. 
 Qur collectors are persevering. I feel unwilling to 
 give up, because I believe there is work enough for 
 us all if we enter heartily into it. Have you any 
 communications from any of the missions that would 
 encourage us ? If you have, please send them on 
 before our meeting in March. 
 
 " Have you heard from Sister Wilkins ? I have 
 not, though I wrote to her. Do, my dear sister, 
 write to the Board, and encourage us. 
 
 " Our Institution for the Aged is prospering. We 
 are preparing to commence building in the spring. 
 You may see in the ■ Advocate ' that we are endeav- 
 oring to dispose of our ground on Broadway ; but 
 money is very scarce in the city now. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 215 
 
 " Before I close I must inform you that we had a 
 delightful season at the communion this afternoon. 
 Our Pastor, Brother Hermance, has not been able 
 to be with us for three weeks in consequence of sick- 
 ness. We were happy to have him present this after- 
 noon ; but the best of all was, God was with us. 
 
 " Pray for your unworthy, affectionate friend, 
 
 " M. W. Mason." 
 
 "February 2, 1856. Met Woman's Hospital Asso- 
 ciation. Mrs. Codwise read at the opening the thir- 
 ty-fourth psalm. 
 
 " Sunday, Feb. 3. Rose early with thanksgiving. 
 Prayed with my family. Read tract ' Count up your 
 Mercies.' 
 
 "February 12. Heard Rev. J. T. Peck in Greene- 
 street. The altar was crowded with mourners. 
 
 " February 22. At prayer-meeting in Greene-street. 
 A good meeting. Some young converts spoke. Vis- 
 ited two orphans whose mother died on Sabbath. 
 
 " February 24. Attended morning service at Hed- 
 ding Mission. Bishop Simpson preached from ' The 
 ways of a good man are ordered of the Lord.' It 
 was the best exposition of a special Providence that 
 I ever heard. I was much blessed under the word. 
 
 "February 25. Spent most of the day among the 
 sick at the Woman's Hospital. Two left on Sat- 
 urday cured,* one improved. It is effecting much 
 good. 
 
 "February 28. Met in class ; felt my unworthiness 
 very sensibly. 
 
2l6 Life Of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 "March 2. Stormy, and too unwell to go out 
 [mproved the day in reading, meditation, and prayer. 
 Was blessed ill reading Mr. Wesley's Sermon on 
 ' the Lord our Righteousness/ 
 
 "March 5. Met Board of Female Missionary So- 
 ciety. Interesting letters from Africa were read. 
 
 "March 15. Attended funeral of Or. Bond, editor 
 of 'Christian Advocate/ A ripe shock of corn gath- 
 ered into the heavenly garner. 
 
 " May 4. Sunday morning heard Brother H. on 
 keeping a watch over our thoughts. In the evening 
 heard Rev. I Jr. Cuyler in Collegiate Church on the 
 
 ' Good Samaritan.' 
 
 "May 7. Spent the day at the Home for the 
 Friendless. Heard reports from auxiliaries, and 
 many speeches on various subjects from ladies pres- 
 ent. House in fine order. 
 
 "May J 8. Attended sacrament at the Institution. 
 Dr. Bangs preached a solemn and interesting sermon. 
 Twenty partook of the communion. In the evening 
 heard Rev. J. Seys plead the cause of the Coloniza- 
 tion Society. 
 
 "May 19. Sent for early this morning 1o see Sis- 
 ter C, (at Woman's Hospital,) supposed 1o be flying. 
 Prayed and conversed with her. She is very happy. 
 Wrote to her sisters. 
 
 " yune 1. Heard Rev. Brother Wiley, late mis- 
 sionary to China, from John vii, 45, 46V 
 
 In June of Ibis year the following letter m 
 dressed to Rev. Dr. Hannah, who was a delegate 
 
 from the British Wesleyan Conference to the G 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 2\J 
 
 eral Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 
 then in session in Philadelphia : 
 
 "Rev. and Deab Sir,— By requesl of the Board 
 of Managers of the New York Female Missionary 
 Society of the Methodisl Episcopal Church, I address 
 yon these few lines. My apology for taking this 
 liberty is a long cherished respect, growing ou1 of 
 gratitude for former services rendered to this Society, 
 then in its infancy, al the time of your former visit to 
 this country. I beg leave to call to youi recollection 
 an anniversary at which Rev. R. Reece, Rev. J. Sum 
 merfield, and yourself addressej this Society. Jfou 
 may remember Mr. Summerfield introduced yon as 
 
 a 'leviathan playing in the water.' This Society of 
 
 Methodisl ladies has kept the even tenor of its way 
 for over thirty-six years. Through a merciful Di- 
 vine Providence I have been honored as its direel 
 
 ress all thai time. Many of my companions in this 
 
 labor of love have been called to their reward, 
 
 among whom was our beloved Sister h'rancis Hall, 
 With whom we took tea on that memorable anniver- 
 sary evening. 
 
 <l With the above lads tor 0111 apology in troubling 
 yon at this time, wo presume upon your kindness in 
 acceding to our request, that yon will favor ns with 
 
 an address on the occasion of our thirty-seventh 
 anniversary, on Wednesday evening the eleventh 
 instant. ' 
 
 "We are sorry we have noi been able to address 
 
 yon earlier on this subject. I supposed that l\ev. 
 
218 Life of Mfs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 had spoken to you on the subject at Gen- 
 eral Conference ; but I received a letter from him 
 this morning, and judge from it that our request was, 
 in the multitude of business, forgotten. 
 
 " Be assured, dear brother, that, it would . gratify 
 your friends here, and, we hope, greatly advance the 
 missionary cause among us, if you can favor us with 
 an affirmative answer. 
 
 " With Christian regard, and many prayers for 
 your safe return to your friends, I remain your sister 
 in Christ, 
 
 " Mary W. Mason." 
 
 " June 17. Visited Hospital. Found our dear little 
 Sister C. very sick. Two other inmates pronounced 
 incurable. How sad ! 
 
 " July 7. Met Building Committee of Ladies' Union 
 Aid Society. Engaged builders. They commenced 
 digging the cellar. 
 
 " Sunday. Heard our new Pastor, J. T. Peck, on 
 John i, 4, ' In him was life.' Very interesting and 
 profitable. 
 
 "July 15. Attended at Lying-in- Asylum with 
 Mrs. T. Emmet to receive applicants. Gave nine 
 permits. 
 
 " July 1 7. To-day Brother Seaman has entered 
 his heavenly rest. He was a friend to our Institution 
 for the Aged and Infirm. The two lots we are build- 
 ing on were a donation from him. 
 
 " July 20. In the afternoon heard Elder Rice. A 
 very profitable discourse. Took tea with Cousins 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 219 
 
 M. and S. ; felt condemned for talking too much on 
 worldly matters. 
 
 "July 21. This has been a busy day, filled with 
 trials of faith and patience. Engaged in planning 
 for our Home for the Aged. It is a great work for 
 a few females. Lord, help ! 
 
 " July 23. Visited Woman's Hospital. I was glad 
 to see four leaving for their homes, rejoicing in being 
 cured of their infirmities. 
 
 " July 30. Attended funeral of my old friend, Mrs. 
 Wilson. She died in the Lord. 
 
 " September 9. Called on Dr. Bangs to preside at 
 laying the corner-stone of Institution. Met my friend 
 S. Thomas, whom I had not seen in more than twen- 
 ty years. We readily recognized each other. Called 
 on Brother Henry Moore for Institution. 
 
 "September 16. An extraordinary day ; very pleas- 
 ant. Great meeting on the ground. Dr. Bangs pre- 
 sided, and Rev. J. T. Peck delivered a very good 
 address. Brother Wakeley laid the corner-stone. 
 
 " September 24. Received a note informing me of a 
 great disappointment in finances. I can only com- 
 mit my case into my heavenly Father's care, which I 
 do in faith. Spent the day in benefiting the sick 
 and poor. 
 
 " October 2. Speaking meeting in the evening at 
 Greene-street Church. Very much blessed. Ten 
 young converts spoke feelingly. ' Jesus was in the 
 midst to bless. 
 
 "October 10. Visited a sick friend, found her grow- 
 ing worse, but, thank the Lord ! in peace. 
 
220 Life cf Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 "Sunday, Oct. 26. Attended Greene-street Church 
 and heard Dr. Peck twice. Revival continues. 
 
 "November 14. Returned from being absent all 
 night. Met trials at home, but looking to Jesus 
 comforted me. Visited with my friend Moore a poor 
 woman worth three thousand dollars, who can get no 
 one to take care of her. 
 
 "Sunday, Nov. 10. Great missionary demonstra- 
 tion. Dr. B., from Baltimore, in Greene-street 
 Church. In the afternoon four Sabbath-schools met. 
 Addresses were delivered. 
 
 "November 18. Missionary anniversary at Greene- 
 street Church. Drs. Cookman, M'Clintock, and Peck 
 spoke. 
 
 " November 19. Visited Home for the Friendless, 
 Woman's Hospital, and Lying-in-Asylum. 
 
 "November 22. Called on my old and dear friends, 
 Dr. and Sister Seaman. Both infirm. 
 
 "December 5. Appointed as a Fast-day by our 
 Pastor. I have two business meetings that I cannot 
 dispense with. 
 
 "December 6. Met Woman's Hospital Board. Di- 
 rectress being absent was called to preside. A large 
 and interesting meeting. Afternoon, commenced a 
 women's prayer-meeting in Sister Peck's parlor. May 
 it continue ! 
 
 "December 7. Retired to rest very tired. Thank 
 the Lord for his loving-kindness to one so unworthy. 
 
 "December 12. Morning busy in domestic duties. 
 Afternoon, met a committee. Had- my feelings 
 much hurt, but tried to claim divine aid. Had 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 221 
 
 a precious letter from Rev. Dr. Hannah, of England. 
 It greatly cheered my heart. 
 
 " December 28. To-day attended the obsequies of 
 our aged and much esteemed Brother Fairweather, 
 for many years Trustee and Leader in Greene-street 
 Church. 
 
 "January 1, 1857. Received a present of a reti-# 
 cule. A pleasant day. Alone with my little grand- 
 daughter. Received twenty-three calls from friends. 
 
 " January 1 2. Visited old Sister , a very dirty 
 
 Christian, miserable in this world, through perverse- 
 ness that will not permit her. friends to make her 
 comfortable. 
 
 The journal for the remainder of this year is miss- 
 ing, but from the numerous memoranda found of 
 business for the various Institutions in which Mrs. 
 Mason was engaged it was evidently not spent un- 
 profitably, but was devoted to the cause of Him " who 
 went about doing good." 
 
 In April of this year the Institution erected in 
 Forty-second-street for the Aged and Infirm mem- 
 bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church was dedi- 
 cated. The services were very interesting, and 
 calculated to rejoice the hearts of those who had so 
 long labored for this deserving cause. During the 
 following Fall occurred the death of Miss Mary E. 
 Bangs, to whom Mrs. Mason was tenderly attached. 
 This sad intelligence was comnlunicated for the Sev- 
 enth Annual Report by Mrs. Mason in the following 
 words : " From the commencement of our Associa- 
 
222 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 tion Sister Bangs has filled the office of Correspond- < 
 ing Secretary, and from her hand we expected to 
 receive this, our Seventh Annual Report. But, alas ! 
 that hand is paralyzed in death, and our beloved sis- 
 ter is removed from her seat in our Board to the 
 place prepared for her by her Saviour in his Father's 
 •kingdom. She ' ceased at once to work and live.' 
 While passing through the vale she said, ' It is not 
 dark; the presence of Jesus accompanies me, and 
 enlightens my way.' Clothed in the robe of the 
 righteous, through faith in her risen Saviour, she 
 soared away to mingle in the blaze of heavenly 
 day." 
 
 The following note was addressed by Mrs. Mason 
 to the venerable and bereaved parents, for whom she 
 had long entertained a sincere regard. 
 
 " October 31, 1857. 
 
 " Dear Brother and Sister Bangs, — Please ac- 
 cept my heart's sympathy in your heavy bereave- 
 ment. Gladly would I have been with you in the 
 very trying hour, but it passed before I knew of it. 
 
 " In the death of your dear daughter Mary I feel 
 I have lost one of my dearest friends, in whose 
 friendship and judgment my heart confidently trusted. 
 A pure example of an Israelite indeed, in whom'there 
 was no guile. 
 
 " But how sweet and consoling is the anticipation 
 of meeting her pure spirit again where parting and 
 farewells are unknown. Having this glorious ex- 
 pectation, may I press to the mark of my high calling 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 223 
 
 in Christ Jesus, having her holy example ever in 
 remembrance. 
 
 " With assurance of my constant prayers that you 
 may be comforted in your infirmities and all your 
 afflictions, please remember me in your prayers as 
 your affectionate and sympathizing friend, 
 
 "Mary W. Mason." 
 
 "New York, November, 1857. 
 
 " My dear Sister Lane, — I have been gratified, 
 by kind messages from you by friends, with assur- 
 ances of continued affection, which I was conscious I 
 did not deserve, I have been so delinquent in corre- 
 sponding with you. But if reciprocal assurance, of 
 affection can compensate for apparent neglect, I am 
 sure of your forgiveness and continued friendship. 
 
 " By a sad coincidence I am now called to write to 
 you on th^e subject of death. O, what breaches this 
 King of Terrors has been making in the narrow circle 
 of our nearest and dearest loved ones ! Our dearly 
 loved Mary E. Bangs ; it seemed as if the stroke was 
 so sudden, and at such a time, when my heart was 
 burdened with excessive care, that I was overwhelmed 
 with sorrow. I suppose you have seen the obituaries 
 in the ' Advocate,' which tell all the melancholy and 
 all the joyful reminiscences of her death. I had 
 scarcely recovered from this sorrowful bereavement 
 when I was called to bow beneath the stroke of an 
 unerring Providence in the death of our mutual friend, 
 Sister Wilkins. My intention in commencing this 
 letter was to give you some incidents of her last visit 
 
224 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 to New York, and of her triumphant death. You 
 are aware that she returned from Africa on account 
 of her health. I met her first after her arrival in the 
 church where the ministers were ordained in the 
 New York East Conference. Brother Terry led her 
 in, and seated her by me. You may judge my joy 
 and surprise at meeting her ; I had not heard of her 
 arrival. After the ordination service the sacrament 
 of the Lord's Supper succeeded, near the close of 
 which Bishop Waugh announced that Sister Wilkins 
 had just arrived and was in the house, and if she 
 was able, he hoped she would come forward to the 
 altar. I gave her my arm, and we went forward and 
 kneeled together. It was an affecting season. When 
 we arose the Bishop introduced Sister Wilkins to the 
 congregation. She was very feeble. She met with an 
 accident on the voyage, having broken her arm, which 
 she had to have in a sling. She went to her mother 
 and among her friends in the country, and Tier health 
 in a couple of months was improved. She and I had 
 intended in September to go to Philadelphia, and on 
 the way make you a visit. But family matters pre- 
 vented me from leaving home. Sister Wilkins spoke 
 of you, and was very desirous to see you. When we 
 again planned to go, we understood you were not at 
 home. But we had not given up seeing you this 
 Fall. 
 
 " Our dear friend was very anxious to be working 
 for the missionary cause. She would often say, ' My 
 time and strength are all the Lord's, and I must spend 
 them in his service.' She obtained a situation to teach 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 225 
 
 a class of girls in the Juvenile Asylum at Fort Wash- 
 ington. I had previously given her permission to make 
 my house her home, and visit among the friends as 
 much as she pleased, but to remember she had a settled 
 home with me. I tried to dissuade her from taking 
 the situation ; it was a very bleak height on the Hud- 
 son River. I told her her lungs were too weak to 
 endure the climate. However, she thought otherwise. 
 She was with me off and on about two months. The 
 last night she was with me, after the family retired, 
 she did not seem inclined to go to bed, and I sat up 
 with her. She told her Christian experience. She 
 made a clear profession of Christian perfection. 
 
 '• She professed entire deliverance from sin, having 
 her will entirely given up to God. We had a blessed 
 season of prayer and praise, retiring to rest near 
 midnight. After breakfast she left, to go to her 
 mother's to get her winter clothes, etc. It was but a 
 few days after when a message came to me that Sis- 
 ter Wilkins was supposed to be dying, and was very 
 anxious to see me at Fort Washington. As early 
 as possible I went to see her. I entered her 
 room quietly, but she was much excited at seeing 
 me. She praised the Lord that he 'had heard her 
 prayers to see me once more.' I tried to prevent her 
 speaking to me. She said she had much to tell me, 
 but she was too weak. After a little rest, she endeav- 
 ored to give me a charge concerning her manu- 
 scripts ; but her breathing was so oppressed it was 
 very indistinct. She gave me to understand that her 
 hope was in Christ. She lived but a short time after 
 15 
 
226 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 this, having been confined to her bed but six days, 
 during which she had great peace. Thus passed 
 away our dear Sister Wilkins, May our end be like 
 hers ! " 
 
 " Your affectionate friend, M. W. Mason." 
 
 "Jan. i, 1858. Received about thirty calls from 
 gentlemen friends without display or setting a table. 
 Spent a pleasant and, I trust, a profitable day. Re- 
 solved to be more devoted to the Lord this year. 
 Happy and thankful. 
 
 " Jan. 2. Met Board of Hospital Association. Not 
 a Directress present. I was called to preside. Aft- 
 ernoon, met Board of Ladies' Union Aid. Lord, 
 help us to see eye to eye, and join heart and hand in 
 the work thou hast given us to do in this Institution. 
 
 " Jan. 7. Afternoon calling on the sick. Evening 
 met Female Benevolent Society. Much suffering 
 among the worthy poor ; made plans for their relief. 
 
 " Jan. 9. Annual Meeting of Woman's Hospital 
 Association. The Directresses being absent, I was 
 nominated pro tern. Drs. Francis, Greene, Holden, 
 Emmet, and others present. Opened by reading 
 1 Tim. ii. Addresses by Drs. Francis, Green, and 
 Sims. 
 
 " Jan. 27. Report from Visiting Committee. Thir- 
 ty-six patients doing well. 
 
 " Jan. 28. Attended class-meeting ; afterward Be- 
 nevolent meeting. Aided a poor widower with four 
 children to return to England. Obtained relief from 
 Guardian Society for a poor widow with small children. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 227 
 
 " yan. 29. Met Committee from Board of Governors 
 of Hospital, namely, Judge Tibbets, — Scheffelin, 
 Esq., and Dr. Sims, with Mesdames Codwise, Dore- 
 mus, Leroy, from Board of Managers. Consulted on 
 best plan to raise funds for building our Woman's 
 Hospital. We met at Mrs. Codwise's, St. Mark's 
 Place. No decisoin. 
 
 "Sunday, yan. 31. Morning sermon by Rev. Mr. 
 Smith, Agent for Home Missions in this city. After- 
 noon attended funeral of Robert J. Murray, one of my 
 old Quaker friends, aged 72. He was son of John 
 Murray, Jr., one of my first friends when I came to 
 this city in 18 10. The latter was brother of Lindley 
 Murray, the grammarian. Evening at Greene-street ; 
 heard Dr. Peck preach a very awakening discourse, 
 but, alas ! little apparent fruit. 
 
 " Monday. Felt unusually moved, in morning devo- 
 tion at break of day, for the spiritual welfare of my 
 children ; also for the subjects of the ' Home for the 
 Aged and Infirm,' and the patients in the ' Woman's 
 Hospital.' Had my spirit disturbed by an obstinate 
 domestic. 
 
 " Feb. 7. Felt my spirit very much oppressed by 
 intelligence of the death of our good nurse at the 
 1 Home for the Aged.' 
 
 " Feb. 24. At ten o'clock met Executive Committee 
 of ' Woman's Hospital.' One case pronounced hope- 
 less. The patient a Romanist, but trusting for her 
 soul's salvation in the merit of her Saviour. Dr. Sims 
 sick. This evening Mayor Tiemann vetoed bill passed 
 by Common Council to request Legislature to give us 
 
228 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 a block of land on which to build our Hospital. A 
 very great disappointment to us, but our trust is in 
 the Lord. 
 
 " April 19. Son J. M. Howe called to inform me of 
 the providential escape, from drowning of his son Ed- 
 win, after sinking twice to the bottom, of the stream. 
 A boy twelve years of age reached him a stick, and 
 drew him out of- the water. 
 
 " May 7. Met Ladies' Union Aid Society ; a large 
 and interesting meeting. Took leave of our beloved 
 Matron, who goes to superintend the Magdalen Asy- 
 lum. The Board requested me to address her on a 
 presentation of a handsome standish and gold pen, 
 I was apparently inspired with words for the occasion, 
 and her reply was very appropriate and affecting. 
 We sung the parting hymn, and Sister Truslow closed 
 with prayer. 
 
 " May 8. Attended funeral of an aged member of 
 the Church, Brother Shotwell, aged 93. 
 
 " Sunday, May 9. Attended the dedication of St. 
 Paul's Methodist Episcopal Church : a very solemn 
 and interesting occasion. Dr. Durbin preached the 
 dedicatory sermon from ' Behold the Lamb of God/ 
 etc. A very suitable discourse for the occasion. 
 
 " May 10. Rose feeble and low-spirited. Soon 
 after breakfast good Brother Hedstrom came in on 
 business, and cheered me much by his Christian con- 
 versation and prayer. 
 
 " May 11. Went with daughter and her husband 
 to the farewell dinner given by the friends of the 
 delegate from Ireland, Rev. Robinson Scott. It was 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary- W. Mason. m 229 
 
 a very interesting occasion. Much good speaking 
 from Methodists, and also from ministers of other 
 denominations. 
 
 " Wednesday, May 12. Afternoon attended Anni- 
 versary of Society of the ' Home for the Friendless.' 
 Was called on to speak on a resolution on the im- 
 portance of training daughters for domestic duties, to 
 prepare them to be good wives and mothers. Several 
 others spoke. It was a most interesting meeting. 
 
 " May 13. Attending to household duties all the 
 morning. Attended class in the afternoon. We had 
 a very solemn and affecting time. Our beloved 
 Pastor and Leader took leave of us. He is going to 
 California. 
 
 " May 19. Went with my daughter to visit my 
 friend Mary Carpenter. Had a pleasant visit, and 
 returned at evening very tired. 
 
 May 21. Evening spent with my beloved friend, 
 L. B. Lane. Our tears mingled in sympathy for the 
 departed Sisters M. E. Bangs and Ann Wilkins, with 
 whom we were both connected in Missionary business 
 in Christian love. We hope to be united again with 
 them in heavenly union. 
 
 " May 22. Called on my friend, Sister Mairs, to go 
 with me to welcome our new Pastor, Brother Corbit. 
 
 " June 8. A donation visit at the ' Home for Aged 
 and Infirm.' A very large attendance ; Mayor Tie- 
 mann presided. Speakers, Revs. J. Hagany, Poisal, 
 C. C. Leigh, and others. A very pleasant occasion. 
 
 " Friday, June 1 1. My first meeting with Board of 
 Managers of Colored Orphan Asylum. Was elected 
 
230 , Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. ' 
 
 as Directress, but refused to serve, having so little 
 knowledge of their business, and being quite a stran- 
 ger in the Board. Consented to continue a Manager. 
 
 "August 1. Attended at Greene-street and heard a 
 sermon read ; not very edifying to me. 
 
 " August 9. This day is my granddaughter F.'s 
 birth-day. May she long be spared to comfort her 
 friends and me ! 
 
 " August 14. Went with son-in-law, J. M. H., to 
 spend a short time at his house. 
 
 "August 15. Attended Church at Passaic, heard 
 Mr. Keys. In the afternoon went with J. M. to an 
 appointment. His preaching seemed \o take hold on 
 the people, who heard him gladly. We rode* about* 
 ten miles. 
 
 "August 16. Spent the day at Passaic pleasantly. 
 
 " August 17. Returned from Passaic* in time to at- 
 tend at Lying-in-Asylurn, with Mrs. Sumner. To-night 
 great rejoicing on account of the success of the 
 electric cable conveying a message from Queen Vic- 
 toria to President Buchanan, and from him in return. 
 Burned the cupola and roof of the City Hall in their 
 display of fire-works. 
 
 "August 18. Met inmates of Home for Aged and 
 Infirm in prayer-meeting. A very feeling occasion. 
 Visited the sick from room to room. Found three 
 sick in bed and low-spirited. I feel much sympathy 
 for them. Truly, hard is the lot of the infirm and 
 poor ! How kind and considerate our treatment of 
 them should be. • 
 
 " September 7. Met Lying-in- Asylum Board at 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 231 
 
 twelve o'clock. Pleasant and profitable meeting. 
 The Asylum is every way prosperous, and doing 
 much good. I was appointed on the Reception 
 Committee another month. 
 
 "September 25. Was notified of the death of my 
 dear stepmother, aged sixty-six. She died the death 
 of the righteous. May my last end be like hers ! 
 
 ' " September 27. Attended the funeral of my step- 
 mother in Philadelphia. She died greatly honored 
 by God and man. Her funeral was well attended \>y 
 many sincere mourners. 
 
 " October 15. Met Board of Ladies' Union Aid So- 
 ciety. Full attendance. Made arrangements for 
 annual meeting to be held at the Home in Forty- 
 second-street. 
 
 " November 2. Met Board of Lying-in-Asylum. In 
 good order. Passed a resolution to try and sell our 
 present property, and endeavor to procure a site in 
 a more agreeable neighborhood. 
 
 "November 10. Morning at 'Woman's Hospital.' 
 House in good order. Several patients reported 
 cured. Much embarrassed for want of funds and 
 more room. 
 
 "November ij. Spent the morning at the 'Wom- 
 an's Hospital.' Tried to make room for a lady from 
 Virginia. 
 
 "November 18. Thanksgiving, but no service in 
 Greene-street Church. Spent most of the day at the 
 ' Home for the Friendless.' A very interesting au- 
 dience, and a profitable collection. The children had 
 an excellent dinner. Some good speaking from vis- 
 
232 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 itors and the children. Three schools present, num- 
 bering nearly three hundred. Went in the evening 
 to hear a lecture from Bayard Taylor, the great trav- 
 eler, who has just returned from travels in the Polar 
 regions. Very interesting. Visited ' Woman's Hos- 
 pital' in the afternoon. All doing well. Stayed all 
 night at daughter's. 
 
 "Nov. 19. Walked home from daughter's, about 
 two miles, thankful and happy. Found all well. 
 Afternoon visited Cousin Wheeler. I fear I was too 
 ready to tell the faults of one who has greatly injured 
 me. Lord, forgive. Spent a very restless night. My 
 thoughts troubled me in the night. 
 
 * O for a closer walk with God ! 
 
 A calm and heavenly frame, 
 A light to shine upon the road 
 
 That leads me to the Lamb.* 
 
 " Nov. 20. Read in my morning paper of scenes of 
 bloodshed in the city the day before. When will 
 wickedness cease to run down our streets like a 
 flood ! Lord, turn a pure language upon the people. 
 
 " Sunday, November 21. Very stormy all day. Im- 
 proved my time in reading and private devotion. 
 
 "December 1. Met the Executive Committee of 
 Woman's Hospital. Present Mesdames Doremus, 
 Webster, Peck, Bogert, Lawrence, Baker, and myself. 
 Union of views. Dr. Sims reports the ground for 
 building our new hospital. ' House in good order, 
 but cramped for room and finances. Afternoon met 
 Missionary Board. A very pleasant but small meet- 
 ing. Started a subscription to register in our me- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 233 
 
 morial list the names of Mrs. Wilkins and Miss M. 
 E. Bangs. 
 
 "December 3. Asked of the Lord renewed grace to 
 love and pray for my enemies. I try to commit my 
 cause into the hands of that Friend who sticketh 
 closer than a brother. Amen. 
 
 "Sunday, December 5. Very stormy. Felt much 
 comforted in my mind. That I am now passing 
 through a season of affliction is, I trust, no evidence 
 of sin. ' These light afflictions shall work out for me 
 a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory ' if 
 only rightly improved. 
 
 " December 6. Spent the morning in domestic con- 
 cerns. At three o'clock my son W. left for Boston. 
 Lord, protect him ! Afternoon visited Cousin Wheeler. * 
 Had comfort in Christian converse. A precious visit 
 at noon from a Christian brother. We conv ersd on 
 the doctrine of Christian perfection. 
 
 " December 8. A very rainy day. Did not feel very 
 well, but was enabled to attend to my usual duties. 
 Met Executive Committee at Hospital. Dr. Sims 
 reported three will be ready to leave next week. 
 Afternoon at ' Home for Aged.' Held prayer-meet- 
 ing. About twenty present. A very precious sea- 
 son. Visited those who were confined to their 
 rooms. They expressed much pleasure at seeing 
 me. 
 
 "Sunday, Dec. 12. Awoke early in a spirit of 
 prayer. Was much drawn out in prayer for my 
 youngest son that the Lord would deepen and carry 
 on the work of grace in his heart, and work out for 
 
234 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 him the path of life which He designs him to take. 
 Directly after, my son came in to inform me of the 
 death of our former beloved Pastor, Brother Stocking. 
 Afternoon was a precious season to my soul as I 
 kneeled beside my son at the Lord's table. My 
 heart has been greatly oppressed by worldly care for 
 some days, but to-day I have been enabled to cast 
 my care upon the Lord. 
 
 "December 13. Very rainy. Annual meeting of 
 Colored Orphan Asylum. I was re-elected Direct- 
 ress. Requested our advisers to draft a new consti- 
 tution for our consideration. 
 
 " December 1 5 . Attended meeting of Executive 
 Committee at Woman's Hospital. Retired to rest 
 weary and sick. 
 
 " December 16. Pleasant day. Arose refreshed in 
 body this morning, but depressed in spirit. I try 
 to cast myself upon the Lord, who . careth for me. 
 Attended to business of the Colored Orphan Asy- 
 lum. Afternoon at class ; was rather dull. After- 
 ward met Benevolent Society. Visited Cousin 
 Wheeler. Called and spent a profitable time with 
 Sister L d. 
 
 "March 1, 1859. Met Ly ing-in- Asylum ' Board. 
 Application made for the admission of a young 
 Spanish lady granted. Attended funeral of L. Bur- 
 ling, jr. ; a Christian indeed ; aged thirty. 
 
 "Sunday, March 13. Rev. Mr. Corbit preached 
 from 1 Peter i, 8. A good sermon, and crowded 
 house. Afternoon sacrament. An unusual number 
 of communicants, and some baptized. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 235 
 
 "March 31. At class much comforted. My mind 
 was made sad by the ingratitude of one whom I had 
 served. 
 
 "May 22. Sick in bed all day, having taken a bad 
 zold. We have had but two days clear in a fort- 
 night. 
 
 "May 31. Had a very pleasant visit with a sur- 
 prise party to my friend Sister Pitman, seventy-six 
 years old to-day. Dr. Bangs, and many aged friends, 
 with her children and grandchildren, were present. 
 A truly religious visit. 
 
 " June 10. Spent this day with my beloved friend 
 
 , who is in deep distress of mind, believing 
 
 that she has committed the unpardonable sin. A 
 more conscientious person I never knew. 
 
 " June 19. Attended church at Fourth Avenue to 
 hear a funeral sermon on the death of Brother Will- 
 iam Foss, a young minister of great promise, a little 
 over twenty-three years of age. The sermon was by 
 Dr. M'Clintock. 
 
 " July 6. At Woman's Hospital till half past 
 twelve ; at Home for Aged and Infirm till half past 
 four. Asked Mother Wousa her age. She replied 
 twenty-third of December she will be ninety-four. 
 
 " July 20. This afternoon arrived at my son-in- 
 law's to spend a short time. 
 
 " August 29. Arrived home after an absence of six 
 weeks, much improved in health, and thankful to the 
 Lord for all the benefits conferred upon me. 
 
 " September 6. Visited Colored Orphan Asylum. 
 Two deaths since I was last there. Received ten 
 
1 - ' Mrs. Mc tstm. 
 
 - 
 
 i ■ : 
 
 on re: = _ ~ 
 
 i ■■ : - r 
 
 M. I. Wheeler It 
 
 E 
 
 . - ■ ; ; r.i Z.r:T_rr '. 
 
 ----..-:_ :■: ' ■ ..: 5 i \ szz i- relief _ - li~~ : :-:: 
 
 7l_7 
 
 far" 1.1,7 
 
 - ^;>- r 
 
 JV_- ; : . r±: i 7 7 v : - 
 
 - : 
 : " ! : - __ 
 
 Aii _ : --..-• ■- 
 
 anorhfr e&ort € napd farmsheri ; also to 
 
 :.:"7 ::: ;::::.::::- . r :-: \ : Z: :::.; 
 
 : 7 : : : : 
 
 A: :-:--. ._ r : r-i 7 riii 
 
 - 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. m 
 
 Aid Society. Lord, help us to see right and 
 right ! 
 
 Sunday, Oct. 9. Sacrament at the - Home * admin- 
 istered by Dr. Bangs. V 
 
 forty- present. Five not able to come from their 
 rooms. 
 
 October 18. At I through 
 
 the wards ; all in order. 
 
 4. Met committee with advisers to de- 
 means to pay off the debt on the Colored Orphan 
 :m. 
 ■ Sunday, Jan. 1. i860. At home alone. I en- 
 deavored to consecrate my soul and body's pc 
 anew to the service of my heavenly Father. Felt 
 
 g 1 in endeavored to dedicate my all 
 to God. Was happy and thankful. Received many 
 calls and congratulations from friends, and formed 
 some new acquaintance. Determined to live nearer 
 to God. Went to rest in a happy and thankful frame 
 of mind. 
 
 :tary 8. Heard a very s earching disco m 
 Thirtieth-street from the Pastor. R Hard, on 
 
 x>n sacramen t Refines! ug 
 
 = 
 
 15 Spent at home ppery 
 
 walking. I did not -ied with myself Had 
 
 not much freedom in family nor private prayer. Did 
 not enjoy the reading of the word of God as much as 
 usual. Had not my mind as much abstracted from 
 the > 1 should have had. 
 
238 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " January 16. Spent the morning in domestic 
 work. Afternoon called on Dr. Bangs to invite him 
 to open the annual meeting of Woman's Hospital. 
 
 "Saturday, Jan. 21. Anniversary of Woman's Hos- 
 pital. A very interesting meeting. Report read by 
 Dr. Sims. Addresses by Dr. Francis and Rev. Mr. 
 Milburn, nearly blind. 
 
 Sunday, Jan. 22. Attended funeral services of 
 Brother Joseph Kellogg, a Trustee of Greene-street. 
 Sermon and services by Brother Corbit. A very im- 
 pressive discourse, and a solemn and profitable occa- 
 sion. In the evening heard funeral discourse by Rev. 
 Dr. Sprague on Mrs. M'Intyre of Albany. Very 
 profitable. 
 
 "January 31. Afternoon called on Cousin M. I. 
 W. Found her in sorrowful circumstances. Ex- 
 horted her to put her trust in God. Called on 
 Brother H. Moore, who is at the point of death, but 
 very happy. He asked me to pray with him, during 
 which my soul was greatly blessed. 
 
 "February 29. Presided at Executive Committee 
 of Woman's Hospital. Arranged by-laws. Meeting 
 protracted, but harmonious. Afternoon made a so- 
 cial call on my friend Mrs. Pease. 
 
 "March 1. Attended, funeral of Sister Macomber. 
 A week ago yesterday I saw her at the Woman's 
 Hospital. She said she was perfectly well, and hoped 
 some years would be added to her life, and that she 
 intended to spend them in doing good. She died on 
 Tuesday. Attended class. A comfortable season. 
 Brother Corbit left the class in my charge, he ex- 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 239 
 
 pecting to be absent a fortnight. I feel very incom- 
 petent. Lord, help me ! 
 
 "March 27. At Colored Orphan Asylum. Heard 
 the recitations for the exhibition to be held at Dr. 
 Beecher's church to-morrow evening. I was well 
 pleased. 
 
 " March 30. Attended meeting at Mrs. ShotweH's 
 of Asbury Mite Society. Principal business in ref- 
 erence to a legacy left to the Society by Mrs. 
 Lamplin. 
 
 "April 11. Morning at Woman's Hospital. Three 
 new patients, and three reported cured. Committee 
 report favorably of the house and family. 
 
 " April 1 2. Meeting of the Female Bible Society. 
 Large and interesting meeting. Drs. Tyng and 
 Bethune addressed the meeting. Collected since the 
 formation of the Parent Board, $132,387. I was a 
 member of the First Bible Society forty-four years 
 ago, in 1 8 16. What hath God wrought by the 
 spread of the Bible in that time ! Glory to his 
 name ! 
 
 " April 13. Morning met Board of Colored Orphan 
 Asylum. Favorable financial report. $1,100 paid 
 by colored ladies who carried on a fair. 
 
 "April 18. Held prayer-meeting at the Home. A 
 precious time, led by Brother Joiner of Allen-street 
 Church. Visited in their rooms nearly every inmate. 
 All ^eem thankful for their happy home and their 
 kind matron. 
 
 " April 19. Met Board of Benevolent Society. Full 
 meeting. I fear some took offense at my strictness 
 
240 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 in business. I object to collections for individuals 
 without giving names. 
 
 " July 5. My birthday. I commence my seven- 
 tieth year. I can say, ' Goodness and mercy have 
 followed me all the days of my life ;' and whatever 
 good has been done by me, it has been the Spirit 
 of God that worketh in me and by me. To his name 
 be all the glory ! Amen and. Amen. 
 
 " July 17. Present on committee at Lying-in-Asy- 
 lum. Gave three permits. Went through the house 
 and found all in order, and doing well. 
 
 " July 19. Extremely warm day. Not able to go 
 out. Prostration of physical powers. 
 
 "Aug. 29. Returned from the country quite sick. 
 
 " Aug. 30. In bed all day, and in very low spirits 
 in consequence of pain. 
 
 " Sunday, Sept. 2. Too unwell to go out, but blessed 
 in reading and meditation and private devotion. 
 
 " Sept. 19. Morning at Woman's Hospital. Even- 
 ing at Home for Aged, where I met with Advisory 
 Committee, and some invited brethren from several" 
 Methodist Episcopal Churches. Important resolu- 
 tions passed. 
 
 "Nov. 1. Met in Board of Female Bible Society. 
 Addressed by Rev. Mr. Jones. At the meeting took 
 leave of Mrs. Crow, who was banished from Valpa- 
 raiso for distributing the Bible. 
 
 "Nov. 9. Met Board of Colored Orphan Asylum. 
 Large meeting. Arranged for a donation visit on 
 Thanksgiving, and a fair. 
 
 "Nov. 13. Met the Board at the Lying-in-Asylum. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 241 
 
 Took measures to prepare for removing our Institu- 
 tion to a more suitable location. 
 
 " Dec. 2. Met Advisors of Colored Orphan Asylum 
 at Miss Bowne's. 
 
 "Dec. 5. Missionary meeting at Mission Rooms. 
 
 "May, 1 86 1. Met Committee at Woman's Hospi- 
 tal to consult on affairs of the House. 
 
 "'July 2. Meeting at Lying-in-Asylum at eleven 
 o'clock. 
 
 " 'Sept. 6. Met with Board of Managers of Ladies' 
 Union Aid Society. A very pleasant and profitable 
 meeting. Fifty-three inmates in the house. Resolved 
 not to admit any more until we are out of debt. I 
 presented an expression of sympathy and condolence 
 to Mrs. Aims, who has lately lost her husband. 
 
 " Oct. 5. At 7 o'clock this morning my son William 
 left this world in the triumphs of faith, to join the 
 family in heaven. His disease was pulmonary con- 
 sumption." 
 
 The death of this son was attended with such 
 remarkable manifestations of Divine Grace that it is 
 deemed worthy of record. In early youth he was 
 the subject of powerful religious impressions, during 
 which time he sought his mother's counsels and 
 prayers. Subsequently he professed to find peace, 
 and for a time was zealous in good works. After- 
 ward, however, yielding to temptation, he lost his 
 enjoyment, and wandered far from his Saviour. To 
 Mrs. Mason this was a great trial, and caused her 
 many anxious hours, and many prayers for his resto- 
 16 
 
242 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 ration to the right path. In the course of time 
 affliction came ; his children were removed by death, 
 and finally disease fastened upon him, reducing his 
 once comely person to feebleness and suffering. 
 Under these circumstances he returned to the home 
 of his childhood to die. Many prayers were offered 
 that God would prepare him, though at the eleventh 
 hour, for his inevitable change. For some time he 
 resisted all attempts at religious conversation, even " 
 refusing to see the Pastor. Still the Holy Spirit 
 was working upon his heart' quietly but surely. The 
 first evidences were his searching the Scriptures ; 
 nor was it long before he sought explanations from 
 pious friends, and finally grace triumphed over 
 nature, so that he gave joyful assurance of his recon- 
 ciliation with his once rejected Saviour. 
 
 During the last week of his life, though helpless 
 as an infant in body, his soul seemed etherealized, 
 and his spiritual vision so clear, that his countenance 
 was radiant with joy. Frequently he would call on 
 those around him to praise the Lord. Feeling 
 anxious to tell his former companions of the great 
 work wrought in him he sent for many of them, and 
 made great effort to talk with them, reminding them 
 of his former evil ways, of his different feeling now 
 in view of eternity, and earnestly exhorting them not 
 to waste their lives, as he had done. No one could 
 help being moved by his affectionate admonitions. 
 Thus in mercy was he permitted to preach Jesus 
 with his dying breath. On one occasion he said to 
 a friend, " I have been disposed to complain of the 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 243 
 
 judgments of God, thinking- he had put upon me 
 more than I've been able to bear ; but though his 
 ways are vailed in mystery, now I can trust him, and 
 feel the assurance that his dealings are just." 
 
 At another time he said to the same friend, " O 
 the majesty of God ! 
 
 ' The spacious firmament on high 
 With all the blue ethereal sky;' " 
 
 and pausing at this couplet, he added, " This great 
 Being who fills all space condescends to look down 
 on me, William Mason, a worm ;" then, raising his 
 eyes, he seemed peering into the depths of the 
 universe, while tears of joy streamed down his 
 face. 
 
 .Having been blessed with a fine voice, he had been 
 a long time a member of the choir in Greene-street, 
 and though then apparently indifferent and careless 
 on religious subjects, the sacred hymns he had assisted 
 in singing impressed his heart. Nor had he been 
 indifferent to the prayers offered, for he requested 
 that a favorite minister should be sent for, " that he 
 might hear one of his majestic prayers" before he 
 died. 
 
 In conversing with his mother, wishing to give her 
 some emphatic assurance of his certainty of heaven, 
 pointing to a picture on the wall, he said, " Do you 
 see that picture, mother ? " 
 
 " Well, as certainly as it hangs there, just so sure 
 am I of going to heaven ! " 
 
 An aged relative calling to see him, said, "Well, 
 William, the journey will soon be ended." 
 
244 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 To which he quickly replied, " It is not a journey, 
 it is only crossing a ferry." 
 
 He said to his physician, (supposing he would die 
 before morning,) " Doctor, you may scratch my name 
 off your books, and write, Gone to heaven." 
 
 Frequently he would call on those around him to 
 pray, sometimes naming several in succession. Re- 
 marking on the sufferings of the Saviour, to his wife 
 he said, " They crucified him ; they didn't hang him, 
 nor stone him, but they nailed him to the cross," 
 and then burst into tears, as though his suffering 
 Jesus was before him. 
 
 To several persons he remarked, "When my 
 father was lying on his death-bed, I, a young boy, 
 stole up to his room and gave him a cup of water ; 
 upon which he turned to me and said, " God bless 
 you, my son ! " " Well, that was said in faith, and 
 now it is verified. I am blessed. Glory to God ! " 
 
 He frequently referred to his departed little ones^, 
 calling them "angels," and anticipating a joyous 
 meeting with them. . • 
 
 Thus entered into his rest this child of many 
 prayers. After his departure his mother said to a 
 friend, " Tell all those you know who have children 
 who have strayed away from the Saviour, never to 
 cease praying for them. I never gave my son up, 
 but always believed the Lord would bring him to 
 himself." 
 
 The record of this son's death closes Mrs. Mason's 
 entries in her Diary. It had been apparent during the 
 previous summer that heart and flesh were failing, and 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 245 
 
 that the once vigorous mind and body would soon 
 cease from labor. A winter of sickness followed, 
 during which Mrs. Mason was often heard to regret 
 that " she had done so little for her blessed Master," 
 affirming that " any good she had accomplished was 
 all of the Lord." 
 
246 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 MRS. MASON'S LAST DAYS. 
 
 Mrs. Mason's Last Days — Death — Funeral — Obituaries — Tributes 
 from Friends — Sunday- Schools — Five Points Mission. 
 
 The six remaining years of Mrs. Mason's life were 
 spent alternately with her daughters, Mrs. North and 
 Mrs. Curtis, whose joy it was to render to the venera- 
 ble mother the offerings of duty and affection. 
 
 Their residences on one of the beautiful ridges 
 overlooking the Hudson were often visited by Mrs. 
 Mason while her intellect yet remained unclouded ; 
 and no one was more delighted with the rich scenery 
 which distinguishes Scarborough, as well as the con- 
 tiguous regions around Sing Sing. The reader will 
 not have forgotten the account, in the early pages of 
 this book, of Mrs. Mason's summer recreations not 
 far from this neighborhood ; how fitting, then, that she 
 who, in periods spanning more than fifty years, found 
 such enjoyment on these hills, should come to end 
 her days amid the objects of natural beauty which 
 had so often inspired her tongue and pen. Her 
 sitting-room overlooked the river, while between 
 was spread a landscape of exquisite beauty. Here, 
 year after year, she sat enjoying the enchanting view, 
 or wrapt in reveries of the eventful past. Here her 
 city associates in walks of usefulness, the ministers 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 247 
 
 with whom she had co-labored, her old friends, with 
 her children and grandchildren, were wont to gather, 
 to offer the tribute of devotion and affection to this 
 mother in Israel. 
 
 Nor was it less a matter of thankfulness that Miss 
 Sickles, her companion for forty-seven years, was still 
 beside her ; that she who had been her constant 
 assistant in the multiplied labors of a long, busy life, 
 should now be spared to succor her failing friend in 
 her declining years. Her preservation in physical 
 ability, though numbering nearly as many years as 
 Mrs. Mason, and her abiding sympathy and tender 
 love, were among the signal tokens of the Divine 
 goodness which marked Mrs. Mason's eventful life. 
 It was beautiful to look upon the aged couple. They 
 were always together, night and day. As Mrs. Ma- 
 son's physical vigor declined, Miss Sickles' power of 
 endurance continued unabated ; as the mists of in- 
 firmity overspread the intellect of the one, the mind 
 of the other grew in clearness and strength ; and the 
 childlike confidence of Mrs. Mason was surpassed 
 only by the tender sympathy and tireless attention of 
 her friend. 
 
 Under these circumstances, Mrs. Mason remained 
 a quiet, patient subject of stealthy disease, which 
 gradually but surely caused the strong to become as 
 a little child. But in all her debility her Christian 
 character continued undisturbed. It was customary 
 on Sunday afternoons for her children and grandchil- 
 dren, on returning from school-house services near by, 
 to call at " the Cottage " and spend a season with the 
 
248 Life of Mrs. Mary W.Mason. 
 
 aged saint. Occasionally, after a hymn of praise, 
 Mrs. Mason would be called upon to pray. However 
 enfeebled, she never refused, but would kneel without 
 hesitation, and though oblivious of events and forget- 
 ful of persons, she would pray with almost the fervor 
 and intelligence characteristic of other days. Mrs. 
 Mary Carpenter, her old and valued friend, whose 
 narrative of early scenes is already recorded, writes 
 thus of this period : 
 
 ".Near the close of her life, when earthly scenes 
 seemed almost obliterated from her mind, her spiritual 
 discernment was clear and bright. I think it was the 
 last interview I had with her, when she was fast 
 verging toward eternity, and after I had taken leave 
 of her and was passing through the door, that she 
 spoke to me again, and as I stepped back quoted the 
 passage of Scripture, ' Precious in the sight of the 
 Lord is the death of his saints.' I hope I am one of 
 them." 
 
 During the last days and hours of her lingering 
 sojourn, when silent on all other subjects, she could 
 be distinctly heard repeating the name of Jesus. As 
 she now approached the dark valley it was natural 
 for her to cling to that name which had upheld her 
 in the fierce struggle of the long past, and which had 
 been her unfailing support when every human prop 
 had given way. Her disorder rapidly increased until, 
 on the morning of January 23d, 1868, her children 
 were summoned to her chamber to witness the de- 
 parture of her noble spirit to the land of the blessed. 
 Truly spoke the eldest daughter as, leaning over the 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. • 249 
 
 expiring body for the last kiss, she exclaimed amid 
 tears, " best of mothers." 
 
 The weary waiting-time was over, and the spirit 
 entered into rest. No more toil, no more conflict, no 
 more care, but never-ending joy. " The silver cord" 
 was loosed, the " golden bowl " was broken, and the 
 spirit returned " unto God who gave it." " Blessed are 
 the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth : 
 yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their 
 labors ; and their works do follow them." 
 
 As has already been seen, her last illness and death 
 were at the residence of her youngest daughter, Mrs. 
 Curtis ; but for convenience, her remains were re- 
 moved to the residence near by of her eldest surviv- 
 ing daughter, Mrs. North, where her funeral took 
 place on the Saturday following her decease. It was 
 largely attended. Many of her co-laborers in city 
 charities came from the metropolis to pay the tribute 
 of affection to their aged companion and friend ; a 
 number of ministers who had long known her labors 
 and worth were present to join in these expressions 
 of esteem ; while the neighbors and relations made 
 up what, for a wintry day, was a large company. 
 Bishop Janes, Revs. M. D'C. Crawford, H. B. Ridga- 
 way, John Luckey, and J. P. Hermance participated 
 in the services, Bishop Janes making the principal 
 address. At the close a large procession followed 
 the body to its last resting place in Sleepy Hollow 
 Cemetery, near Tarrytown, where it was deposited in 
 the same plot with the remains of her grandchildren, 
 Mary and Adolphus North. In due time a marble 
 
250 * Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 monument, plain, solid, and symmetrical, like herown 
 character, was placed at the head of her grave, on 
 which is the following inscription : 
 
 MART W. 
 
 RELICT OF REV. THOMAS MASON, 
 
 Died January 23, 1868, 
 Aged 76 Years, 6 Months. 
 
 she founded 
 THE FIKST METHODIST SUNDAY-SCHOOL II NEW TOEK, 
 
 WHERE 
 
 SHE LABORED MORE THAN FIFTY YEARS, 
 
 FOR THE AGED, THE YOUNG, 
 
 AND THE POOR. 
 
 Well reported of for good works ; 
 
 she brought up children j 
 
 she lodged strangers \ 
 
 She relieved the afflicted ; 
 
 SHE DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 
 
 The following letters and resolutions were received 
 at the time of the funeral, some of which were read 
 on the occasion : 
 
 Feb. 24, 1868. 
 
 " Mrs. Mason's Family : 
 
 " Esteemed Friends : At a meeting of the Board 
 of Managers of the ' Ladies' Union Aid Society,' held 
 this day, the intelligence of the death of your beloved 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 25 I 
 
 and honored mother was received, and before attend- 
 ing to other business, it was unanimously decided to 
 immediately convey our sympathies to her beloved 
 family, and express the profound regard the Board 
 entertain for her exalted character and most precious 
 memory. To those of us who have a thorough knowl- 
 edge of her deep interest in the origin and subsequent 
 management of this Society as its original First Di- 
 rectress, for several successive years, a rapid retro- 
 spect of the past was vividly presented to our minds, 
 and we saw her again as when she plead the claims 
 of the aged and infirm needy members of the Church 
 she so dearly loved, and in expressing the encourage- 
 ment given by the Churches for the organization of 
 this Society. When her cherished plans had become 
 a reality, a house hired, and a family gathered, and 
 new untried responsibilities rested heavily upon her, 
 how cheerfully she bore them, and how sweetly she 
 counseled us to ' be not weary in well doing.' And 
 then, the comfort and happiness of the family were to 
 her of the greatest importance. Her desire was, that 
 they might have a Home indeed, not such as to make 
 them feel their dependence, but where they might 
 enjoy all the necessary comforts of this life, as well 
 as a preparation for ' that which is to come.' And 
 how thankful we are, that in the days of her activity 
 and usefulness the new building was erected, occu- 
 pied by the family, and the heavy debt so far reduced, 
 as to render it manageable by her successors. And 
 now as we follow her to the blest ' rest of the faithful/ 
 how many happy, shining ones, gone from this loved 
 
252 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 family, greet her welcome there. Then, too, there are 
 those of most blessed memory, fellow-laborers with 
 her in this benevolent cause, who have gone before ; 
 and when we think of their happy meeting, , we are 
 ready to indorse the sentiment, as expressed by our 
 dear Sister Tittle, when she said, ' I think I rather 
 prefer being received by those loved ones than by 
 the angels.' But we spoke of sympathy — we rather 
 rejoice. ' Blessed are the dead which die in the 
 Lord : yea, saith the Spirit, for they rest from their 
 labors ; and their works do follow them.' When we 
 remember the very many Christian and benevolent 
 enterprises in which for so many years she was in- 
 cessantly engaged, we cannot but exclaim, ' She hath 
 done what she could ! ' ' Her record is on high ! ' but 
 her influence is with us, and must continue. 
 
 " ' Who would not wish to die like those 
 Whom God's own Spirit deigns to bless ? 
 
 To sink into that soft repose, 
 Then wake to perfect happiness.* 
 
 " Matilda M. Adams, Secretary" 
 
 The following is taken from the seventeenth an- 
 nual report of the " Ladies' Union Aid Society." 
 
 " POSTSCRIPT. 
 
 "At a meeting of the Board of Managers subse- 
 quent to the annual meeting, intelligence was received 
 of the death of Mrs. Mary W. Mason, and it was 
 deemed fitting that a brief minute should be appended 
 to the Annual Report. 
 
 " At this announcement memory, passing over the 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 253 
 
 period of her retirement and infirmities, recalls the 
 days when she sat among us, sharing our labors, and 
 presiding over our deliberations with remarkable 
 ability. Her name is intimately associated with the 
 early history of the Sabbath-school and Missionary 
 Institutions of our own Church, as well as with the 
 general benevolent activities of her day in our city. 
 But while so much might be said to her praise in re- 
 spect to these, it is more especially in reference to 
 our own Institution that we would make mention of 
 her. When the impression obtained that a more 
 thorough and systematic plan was needed for the care 
 of our aged poor, none of the few who, with her, en- 
 tered upon the undertaking, did so with stronger 
 conviction of its necessity, nor with stronger confi- 
 dence and faith in God. Her superior intelligence 
 and eminent fitness led to her being chosen the First 
 Directress of the Society, and she was annually re- 
 elected to the same position for the first seven years 
 of its existence. She truly loved the work, and, vig- 
 orous in mind and body, she devoted all the energies 
 of her strong nature to this, her favorite scheme of 
 usefulness. Her clear intellect, and habits of disci- 
 pline and order, and her familiar acquaintance with 
 the formalities of business, made her a presiding offi- 
 cer seldom equaled. Her dignified bearing was a 
 rebuke to all levity, and the ready ease with which 
 she disposed of all questions, entangled by real or 
 supposed difficulties, commanded our respect, and 
 inspired us with confidence. Her quiet, serious 
 manner might have seemed, to those but slightly 
 
254 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 acquainted with her, cold and reserved ; but to those 
 who knew her best she was the cordial and tender 
 friend, who, having herself trodden the path of sor- 
 row, was ever ready to point to the light beyond 
 those who were walking in its shadowy way. She 
 was mighty in prayer. At the bedside of the suffer- 
 ing, such was the power and unction that sometimes 
 accompanied her prayers that the flickering life 
 seemed to gather new strength as she bore it in faith 
 before the throne ; and well do we remember the 
 fervent petitions that trembled on her lips as, with 
 words radiant with the fire that glowed within, she 
 ' talked with God as a man talketh with his friend.' 
 But now ' faith is lost in sight,' and the glories of 
 the better world have dawned upon her delighted 
 vision." 
 
 " New York, Feb. 21, 1868. 
 
 " At a meeting of the Managers of the Female 
 Benevolent Society of the Greene-street Methodist 
 Episcopal Church, held February 20, 1868, the fol- 
 lowing preamble and resolutions were unanimously 
 adopted : 
 
 " Whereas, It has pleased our heavenly Father to 
 remove from earth, to her reward on high, the beloved 
 and honored Directress of this Society, Mrs. Mary 
 W. Mason, for more than twenty-eight years its first 
 presiding officer: 
 
 " Resolved, That while we bow submissively to the 
 Divine will, we remember with feelings of the most 
 lively gratitude the unwavering zeal and activity of 
 our dear departed sister and friend, for so many 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 255 
 
 years, in the cause to which this Society is devoted, 
 while at the same time, with the most enlarged spirit 
 of usefulness, she was projecting and forwarding 
 many other charitable enterprises. 
 
 "Resolved, That in the death of Mrs. Mary W. 
 Mason we have lost a warm and true friend, whose 
 name will ever be fragrant with most precious and 
 holy memories ; whose warm and generous heart, 
 strong and cultivated intellect, integrity of purpose, 
 and fervent piety, rendered her always a safe and 
 wise counselor, a firm and judicious friend, sympa- 
 thetic not only with the poor, but with all who needed 
 sympathy ; and that, while we deeply deplore her 
 loss, we will strive to follow her example, praying that 
 the same spirit which actuated her may rest upon 
 us, inspiring to similar deeds of devotion and self- 
 sacrifice. 
 
 " Resolved, That we affectionately sympathize with 
 the bereaved family of our deceased sister in this 
 time of their affliction ; while we doubt not that their 
 sorrow is mingled with much of gratitude in the 
 recollection of her long and useful life, and with 
 much of joy in the anticipations of a blessed and 
 eternal reunion in the home of the redeemed 
 
 above. 
 
 Sarah J. Seaman, Secretary. 
 
 The following notices of Mrs. Mason appeared in 
 connection with the announcement of her death in 
 the Church periodicals, to which they are respectively 
 credited : 
 
256 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " This 'elect lady' has finished her earthly course, 
 and entered upon that rest which remaineth for the 
 people of God. Her death occurred on Thursday 
 morning last at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. 
 H. B.. Curtis, at Scarborough, near Sing Sing, on the 
 Hudson. The funeral services were held on Satur- 
 day, and were attended by a large number of relatives 
 and friends, among whom were several distinguished 
 ministers. Bishop Janes, Dr. Crawford, Rev. H. B. 
 Ridgaway, Rev. John Luckey, and Rev. J. P. Her- 
 mance participated in the services, Bishop Janes 
 making the principal address, which was exceedingly 
 appropriate and" beautiful. Dr. Crawford read an in- 
 teresting and touching letter from the Managers of 
 the Old Ladies' Home, which had enjoyed so large a 
 share of Mrs. Mason's later efforts. A large proces- 
 sion followed the body to its last resting-place in 
 Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, near Tarrytown, where it 
 was deposited in the same plot with the remains of 
 Mary and Adolphus North. 
 
 " Mrs. Mason bore so large a part in the history of 
 New York Methodism, as well as in non-denomina- 
 tional benevolent associations, that for fifty years her 
 name was a household word in the Christian families 
 of the city. A simple list of the charitable enterprises 
 with which her name was connected affords an index 
 to her character for general usefulness, and shows the 
 ground of her wide-spread reputation for unselfish 
 devotion and singular ability. 
 
 ". Born in Cork, Ireland, her youth was spent in 
 Philadelphia, where her education was pursued, and 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 257 
 
 where, much to the opposition of her mother, she 
 joined the Methodists. At the age of eighteen she 
 came to New York, at the solicitation of the Society 
 of Friends, to become principal of the first free school 
 for girls established by them under the name of ' Fe- 
 male Association School,' on the Lancasterian plan. 
 This was in 18 10. Soon after she formed the first 
 Methodist Sunday-school in New York city, herself 
 superintendent, drawing around her for teachers 
 young men and women whose names have since be- 
 come illustrious. She was one of the projectors, and 
 for many years Secretary, of the Female Assistance 
 Society, the object of which was to relieve the sick 
 poor. This Society originated in the sufferings occa- 
 sioned by the war of 18 12. She projected, and was 
 the first and only directress of the Female Missionary 
 Society of our Church, whose origin dates back to 
 within a year of the founding of our General Mission- 
 ary Society, and was its first auxiliary. She was one 
 of the founders of the Lying-in-Asylum, and for many 
 years one of its directresses. She was also one of the 
 founders of the Methodist Old Ladies' Home and 
 Union Aid Society, and its first directress. During 
 the same period she was first directress of the Colored 
 Orphan Asylum, and one of the projectors and mana- 
 gers of the Woman's Hospital. It is hardly credible 
 that for many years, amid such extraordinary respon- 
 sibilities, she conducted a select day-school in her 
 own house, chiefly for the purpose of educating her 
 daughters, held a Bible class on Sunday evenings, and 
 was at the same time superintendent of the female 
 17 
 
258 Life of Mrs. Mary W.Mason. 
 
 department of the Greene - street Sunday- School. 
 These were her public positions ; but who cari enu- 
 merate those ceaseless activities which marked her 
 daily walks ? Only one Eye could follow her as, for 
 more than fifty years, she walked among the lowly, 
 stood by the bedside of the dying, helped the poor, 
 and visited the prisoner. For half a century she was 
 a central figure among Methodist women, while her 
 influence spread out beyond denominational bounds. 
 
 "There was a harmony in her entire character. 
 Some women who are exalted before the public will 
 not bear private scrutiny. Not so with the subject 
 of this sketch. In the domestic circle she shone with 
 equal luster. She trained with exemplary patience 
 and fidelity a large family, thrown upon her exclusive 
 guidance by the death of her husband in 1843 ; daily 
 entertained guests, and regulated her household with 
 such system that she well deserved the emphatic 
 eulogy pronounced by one of her daughters as life 
 was ebbing away, ' Best of mothers.' She pursued 
 her benevolent labors with tireless activity up to 
 seventy years of age. P2very morning, even at this 
 period, she might have been seen, satchel in hand, 
 filled with reports, memoranda, cards, and various 
 items so essential to so public a character, sallying 
 forth to visit the numerous ' institutions ' with which 
 her name was conne^ed, or wending her way to con- 
 sole the sick or help the poor. Who, once seeing her, 
 will forget the dignity and serenity of her counte- 
 nance, the benevolent glow of her eye, and the vigor 
 of her step ? But three-score years and ten were 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 259 
 
 assigned as the limit of her active usefulness, though 
 not the limit of her life. The appearance of disease 
 was the signal for retirement ; she must needs with- 
 draw from daily rounds of duty and from public as- 
 semblies. Henceforth they who would seek her must 
 go to the domestic circles of her children. During 
 the last days and hours of her lingering sojourn, when 
 ■ silent on all other subjects, she could be distinctly 
 heard repeating the name of Jesus. When her end 
 came she fell asleep without a struggle. May her 
 influence be perpetuated, not only by the numerous 
 institutions which her hands helped to build, but by 
 her children and grandchildren, together with scores 
 and hundreds of other Christians whose characters 
 she has formed !" — Christian Advocate. 
 
 " This noble woman breathed her last at the cottage 
 of her daughter, Mrs. Curtis, near Sing Sing, N. Y., 
 on the morning of the 23d instant. Mrs. C. C. North, 
 another daughter, was also present, and various mem-* 
 bers of the two families. She was the relict of 
 Thomas Mason, once one of the Book Agents at 
 New York, and was identified with Methodism in 
 that city during the entire half of its first century. 
 From beginning to end she was the directress of that 
 most efficient auxiliary of our Parent Missionary So- 
 ciety, 'The Female Missionary Society of the Method- 
 ist Episcopal Church.' She was the intimate friend 
 * and correspondent of Mrs. Wilkins, and other early 
 lady missionaries. She was the superintendent of 
 the first Methodist Sunday-school in the city of New 
 
260 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 York, on Tryon Row, and was for a long series of 
 years the superintendent of the Greene-street Sunday- 
 School. She was the foundress of the Ladies' Union 
 Aid Society, who sustain the Old Ladies' Home of 
 New York. Few women have been so long and so 
 actively engaged in Christian labors. 
 
 " Her young ladies' school was once among the 
 eminent institutions of the city, and she will be long # 
 remembered by hundreds of loving pupils. She was 
 finely educated, of pure and independent spirit, and 
 the luster of her character was never more conspicu- 
 ous than in the deep afflictions and trying adversities 
 through which she passed. For several years past 
 her mind had been impaired, she failing to recognize 
 even her own children, and in her last days she was 
 perfectly helpless. But, though failing to recall the 
 names of others, she did not forget Jesus. His name 
 and words were often on her lips. Mrs. North spoke 
 truly when, bending over her for the last living kiss, 
 "she said, amid her tears, ' Best of mothers.' Rev. F. A. 
 Mason, of Memphis, is her son." — West. Christ. Adv. 
 
 " This devout and cultivated lady closed her earthly 
 career a few days since at her late residence near 
 Sing Sing. We had time last week Qjily to notice 
 the fact of her death ; but we feel that we cannot 
 allow one so eminent for her talents, piety, and use- 
 fulness to pass from among us without a becoming 
 tribute to her memory and worth. It is seldom that 
 any one woman fills so wide a sphere of Christian 
 activity, and for so long a time, as did Mrs. Mason. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 261 
 
 Her religious earnestness, intellectual culture, and rare 
 executive ability, made her, for about^. half century, 
 the attractive center and organizing head of all the 
 benevolent movements of Methodism in New York 
 city. Indeed, the vigor of her talents, and the quench- 
 less zeal of her spirit, commended her to the respect 
 and confidence of all classes of Christians and phi- 
 lanthropists, and she was invariably sought for and 
 thrust forward, either to inaugurate, or to aid by her 
 co-operation whatsoever enterprise was projected for 
 the advancement of religion and morals. 
 
 " At the early age of eighteen she was called from 
 Philadelphia, where her first years were spent and 
 her spiritual character was formed, to take charge, 
 under the Friends, of the first free school established 
 by them in New York, and attached herself to the 
 John-street Methodist Church. Her care for her pu- 
 pils, most of whom belonged to the humbler walks 
 of life, did not cease when her work-day teaching was 
 through ; but, feeling that they needed instruction 
 on the Lord's day, she invited them to meet her on 
 Sunday, and thus originated the first Sunday-school 
 among the Methodists of New York. She was its 
 superintendent, and associated with her in this work 
 young men and women who have since stood foremost 
 in our Churches. She was the Secretary of the Fe- 
 male Assistance Society, an organization formed soon 
 after the close of the late war with Great Britain, and 
 designed especially for the benefit of the sick poor, 
 which position she held for twenty years. She was 
 a directress of the Female Missionary Society, aux- 
 
262 
 
 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 iliary, and, we think, the first auxiliary, to the Parent 
 Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal 
 Church. This Society was particularly efficient in 
 founding and sustaining the mission to Liberia. She 
 was one of the founders of the Lying-in-Asylum, and 
 continued one of its managers for over thirty years. 
 She, with a few other choice ladies of Methodism, 
 projected the Ladies' Union Aid Society of the 
 Methodist Episcopal Church, the purpose of which 
 was to erect a suitable Home for the indigent aged of 
 the Church. This object she prosecuted with unre- 
 mitting zeal, until she saw it consummated in the 
 noble building and happy family now in the possession 
 and under the control of the ladies — one of the most 
 beautiful monuments of Christian charity to be seen 
 in our great city. Her portrait very appropriately 
 graces its walls. She remained* first directress for 
 many years. A more heartfelt tribute could not have 
 been expressed than was read at her funeral from the 
 Board of Managers of this truly humane institution. 
 She was one of the directresses of the Colored Or- 
 phan Asylum ; also a founder and manager of the 
 Woman's Hospital. During most of this period of 
 religious and benevolent activity she conducted a 
 select school for young ladies, chiefly for the educa- 
 tion of her own daughters, and was the female super- 
 intendent of the Greene-street Methodist Episcopal 
 Sunday-school. 
 
 " Until the age of seventy, Mrs. Mason was una- 
 bated in her physical force and charitable works. 
 About six years ago her powers of body and mind 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 263 
 
 suddenly gave way, and she lapsed into comparative 
 helplessness — a wreck only of the once noble-lookin " 
 and commanding person. Those who knew her in 
 her years of robust health, who were wont on all oc- 
 casions to feel the inspiration of her faith, the fascina- 
 tion of her love, and the impulse of her unswerving, 
 untiring devotion to God and humanity, will prefer to 
 remember her as she then was. Her image must 
 forever remain stamped upon their hearts ; her worth 
 must always abide as one of the jewels of memory's 
 treasury. Through the cloud which enveloped her 
 intellect for the last six years would occasionally dart 
 forth a bright, intelligent ray, which showed, the 
 former fires were not wholly extinct. Her sickness, 
 though doubly painful because of the eclipse of the 
 intellect, was yet relieved by a twofold consideration : 
 her innocent talk was an almost constant reference 
 to the scenes and persons of her life's work, which, 
 in her imagination, she was still looking upon and 
 carrying forward ; and, amid all her mental aberra- 
 tions, her thoughts never wandered from the distinct 
 recognition of Jesus, nor lost their power to under- 
 stand and to engage in prayer. Quite to the last she 
 would call the family around her for devotion, and 
 would converse with them intelligently on this great 
 theme of personal religion. Appropriate funeral serv- 
 ices were observed at the house of her son-in law, C. 
 C. North, Esq., on Saturday, January 25, conducted 
 by Bishop Janes, after which her remains were buried 
 in the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, near Tarrytown. 
 Thus has another, and by no means the least, of the 
 
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 the 
 
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 je pursuits 
 
 3 
 
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 s • 3 - itens 
 
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 ^ ... ... . 
 
266 ' Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " A marked independence of character distin- 
 guished her. This was seen in her thinking and in 
 her conduct. Through all the repeated visitations of 
 death to her home she never materially changed her 
 apparel. Twice when death had taken away a daugh- 
 ter, and in time the bewidowed son-iif-law introduced 
 , new wives, she, with rare magnanimity, welcomed 
 them as daughters filling the vacant places. She 
 never hesitated to stand by the right, to rebuke wrong- 
 doing wherever she found it, to be peculiar rather than 
 trespass a single law of God. Free and easy Chris- 
 tians did not always find her criticisms agreeable. 
 She lived in a pure and lofty region, far from the 
 world and near to God. 
 
 " That her numerous public and professional duties 
 did not interfere essentially with the well ordering of 
 domestic arrangements, is one of the marvels of her 
 history. A large family, half in heaven, and half 
 filling honorable and useful stations in life, attest how 
 rare a combination of excellences secured the result. 
 She was a mother indeed, and her children and her 
 children's children will be her crown and rejoicing in 
 the last day. 
 
 " Such was this ' elect lady.' Her name will long 
 linger in the Churches, and her influence is immortal." 
 
 The following tribute of affection is from R. C. 
 Moffat, M. D., of Brooklyn : 
 
 " Certainly, if any body living owes a debt of grati- 
 tude to dear Mrs. Mason it is I. Separated from 
 my^ family, virtually alone in the wide city of New 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 267 
 
 York at a time of life when its temptations are the 
 most alluring, she opened her home and her heart, 
 allowing and inviting free and protecting access to 
 both, and this without acquaintance with me, except 
 such as came through a friendship to an elder sister. 
 In the heedlessness of my youth I took it very much 
 as a matter of course ; but in the experience of later 
 years I have learned to know the large-hearted kind- 
 ness that would thus introduce a#strange young man 
 into the bosom of her family. As we never can 
 know an alternative, so it is impossible, as well as 
 idle, to say what would have befallen me, and what 
 my course of life might have been, but for her foster- 
 ing care ; but my appreciation of her kindness is ever 
 the same. 
 
 " Her affectionate interest was further shown by 
 offering me a place as teacher of certain branches in 
 her school, fixing at the same time a liberal salary ; 
 this, too, with practically no experience on my part. 
 I addressed myself to my work with hearty good- 
 will; but the prominent feature respecting it was 
 the delicate, and yet efficient, aid she gave me in 
 maintaining the discipline of one of the classes, 
 where one or two heedless ones were profiting by 
 my inexperience. 
 
 " Later, when, by an appointment as subordinate 
 engineer on the Croton Aqueduct, I entered on my 
 then chosen profession, no one gave me more solid 
 and cheering encouragement, no one manifested so 
 maternal an interest in my welfare as did Mrs. Mason ; 
 and she bound me still in close relation to her and her 
 
:''. 1 / -- Mrs. Ma zsem. 
 
 . . ---■-_■■■ 
 
 : ■. - t ~: - . r .-_; I --=.: :b^t >~r7: -\- \:^ 
 
 '■ :: ---'\ ' -~ --_'-.-' ::- ;V = 7\ - :r_ :;-lc7~Tir-£ 
 
 Then w;7: s 
 
 ; 
 
 '.»ng and -femifiar intercourse -with Mrs. Mason's 
 
 house- Mm Mason said, * Reuben !* and looked now 
 
 : 
 me. I was at the opposite end of a long table, and 
 Jo-.'iie: :'.-; = - -_ "■;- =.: --:' '--"':_ '- 
 
 "And Man-, and Matt, and Lfla, and Anna, all 
 
 . ;'.. '- - . i /'..-: '. ' - -i. ■';-':' "7 z 
 
 " ' ' ' c ,;'.', ; " ," ' '. . ' V. t', 
 
 ' ; ; " " -■/,'■: ' - ' .r ' : ' _' c •: t^ 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 jovoif?. merrv — blended, mingled, subdued — all, all 
 sacred, and having their center and stay in dear I 
 Mason's mem 
 
 ugh reserved, even to seeming coldness 
 manner upon ordinary xas is yet selfishness 
 indifference could never justly be ascribed to Mrs. 
 Mason as I saw her She was constantly occupied. 
 Eminent' ." in her life, and of surpassing ex- 
 
 ecutive ability in carrying out the grand purposes 
 benevolence and usefulness she set before her, and 
 being usually in a: e . a s s c a tes, she had 
 
 to devise and ro work out the best form of the de- 
 sired good, besides molding cud adapting >the s 
 working into concurrence with her. Wrapped in 
 these thoughts, while earning out what was aire 
 concluded, necessarily withdrew her from the petty 
 complaisances and the minor courtesies - ciety. 
 But let there arise as 
 who so ready, so strong, so tend. 
 as she ? None, none ! She - ae, 
 
 * ****** 
 
 " Though I have passed from ; 
 experiences of maturer years, and. in the pro\ idence 
 of our Good Shepherd, to the influences :her 
 
 told.' yet the memory of Mrs. Mason to me is > 
 tower of strength, a moral : an, an in- 
 
 centive to industry and perse this 
 
 distance of time (thirty years) 1 rec 
 of her life upon mine. 
 
 '• 1 regard her pel mother in Israel.' 
 
 and all like her as a ' power in the State.' for it is 
 
Life tf Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 $fx immo% a true estimate of Mr$, Mason's char- 
 
 " I esteem it a great favor to be allowed a space in 
 die Memoir of Mis. Mason in which to ghre expres- 
 
 - -.■■: ■ ' - - -■;- :;-;;: -. .. - -.: 
 
 " " ". -. ' '. ■ :\ ■ \- /\ ...-.-... 'i' ..'- 
 
 fife At the period of my introdnction to the family 
 it consisted of father, mother, and seven chnchen. 
 The eider of the group became my companions, Mrs. 
 
 scbool the son of a widow. Sbe saw at once my need 
 of Christian society and Christian culture, and cor- 
 dially invited me to the inner life of her excellent 
 temftr. Ma Mason was at this period in her prime, 
 
 The center of many benevolent enterprises, her coun- 
 sel was daily sought, and her assistance solicited, 
 
 her own day-school, her family and her guests, sever- 
 
 ', ' ; '. ; ;, c ;v T_*.V: :'-*..'-': . ' ' ': ' ' . - / ' 1 . c ' '- 
 
 that a religions character just fcrming should receive 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary \V. Mason. ?;r 
 
 "The intimacy continued with the family after they 
 occupied their new house in Second street, till in 
 1838 l bade adieu to the charftied circle, and became 
 a citizen of a distant state. Bui what pictures of use- 
 fulness, happiness, ami hospitality do the scenes of 
 those tew years present to my mind ! 
 
 " * No. 1.' Second-street' became a center of influ- 
 ence. In the seleet school over whieh Mis. Mason 
 
 presided with such rare dignity, the daughters of man) 
 of the fust Christian families received that culture, 
 moral ami intellectual, whieh reproduced in othoi cir 
 
 eles and at distant points the Strong features o\ Mis. 
 Mason's character, Aside from this, her house was 
 
 frequently visited by persons in various conditions, 
 who sought hoi assistance and counsel. 
 
 "Her judgment was so extraordinary, that young 
 candidates for the ministry applied to her foi advice 
 as to then course in life. I recoiled one occasion 
 
 When a young man laid his easo before hei , and elosed 
 
 l>\ saying ' My way is all dark. 1 ' Well,' she replied, 
 * if it is, thou, trusting in God, take one stop into the 
 dark.' The pooi and distressed won- never turned 
 
 from hoi door without a Ian and pationt investigation 
 
 oftheii case, ami if worthy they were always assisted 
 Hers was the painstaking inquiry and continuous aid 
 which not only mitigated suffering foi the moment, 
 but gave permanent reliei to the sufferei Beyond 
 
 these, ' No. 1 '' WaS a plaee ol peruli.it attention to 
 
 ;i large circle <>i youth, ami yet only attractive t<> 
 those who were seeking a more excellent wa} \ 
 young person having no aspirations foi a highei life. 
 
272 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 nor attainment of knowledge, would find nothing con- 
 genial at No. 12. 
 
 " But Mrs. Mason herself was the central figure, and 
 the principal power of good to the young people who 
 gathered at her house. She drew around her the 
 pious and cultured daughters of other families as as- 
 sociates for her own. Some of the latter lived only 
 long enough to illustrate the precepts and example 
 of their mother in the relations of daughter, sister, 
 wife, and mother, and then in early wifehood passed 
 away to receive their reward. Thus No. 12 be- 
 came a rendezvous for talented and aspiring young 
 people : propriet yof conduct, aspiration for knowledge, 
 an ambition for usefulness, and a religious life being 
 the condition of admission to the charmed circle. 
 
 " Strangers might have thought Mrs. Mason dis- 
 tant, but we who saw her inner life knew well that 
 she was remarkably cheerful ; nay, more, she abounded 
 in fine humor, to which her Irish nature gave a pol- 
 ished edge. Though rigid on all questions involving 
 moral right, she was tolerant of mere indiscretions 
 and weaknesses which made her bear our youthful fol- 
 lies with so much pStience and composure. It is too 
 " much the fashion now, as then, for persons of mature 
 age to ignore the fact of their own youthful foibles, 
 and consequently to become coercive and exacting 
 toward young people ; but Mrs. Mason never forgot 
 that she was once a girl, and that men were once 
 boys. Her paramount desire in encouraging us to 
 visit her house was, that she might help to' mold our 
 characters and cultivate our minds. As one means 
 
Life of Mrs. Maty W. Mason. 273 
 
 to this end, she set apart Sunday evenings in which 
 to give us instruction in the word of God. She had no 
 sympathy with the sentiment that the highest good 
 consists in attending church only on Sunday. In those 
 days there was preaching morning, afternoon, and night. 
 She and her family and young friends were steady at 
 -Sunday-school at 9 A. M., at church at half past 10, 
 again at Sunday-school at half past 1, then church at 3. 
 Was not this enough for all purposes of devotion ? 
 
 " Were not two sermons as many as any ordinary 
 mind could remember and digest ? Mrs. Mason felt 
 that her family and the young circle around them re- 
 quired an intimacy with the Scriptures, which could 
 be better attained by appropriating Sunday evenings 
 for the purpose. And she was right. Every one of 
 the favored company who sat around her table listen- 
 ing to the voice of instruction, and who have passed 
 through the trials of life where a knowledge of the 
 word of God has proved the highest inspiration to 
 courage in enduring them, will look back on those 
 evenings at No. 12 and join me in the response, She 
 was right ! Added to the Scripture lessons, and 
 readings from ' Watson's Conversations,' were her 
 own wise observations, and those applications of truth 
 which came from her with such weight and clearness. 
 Joyous was that golden period ! As one year suc- 
 ceeded another we grew in knowledge and usefulness. 
 Mrs. Mason warmly approved the thorough training 
 and discipline of the Greene-street Youths' Class, then 
 under the instruction of Joseph Longking, well known 
 
 as an ardent worker in the Sunday-school cause. 
 
 18 
 
274 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 " Since that early period I have been familiar with 
 Mrs. Mason's life, with its trials, burdens, griefs, joys, 
 successes, and final victory, and I am free to declare 
 that I never expect to look upon her like again. 
 
 " In person Mrs. Mason was of moderate height, 
 well rounded without corpulency, and, sitting or stand- 
 ing, always erect. Her head was large, and well 
 shaped, and would have become a statesman of high- 
 est rank. Her features were exceedingly regular, and 
 yet prominent ; her eyes black, yet not coal black, 
 penetrating without being sharp, and nearly always 
 serene in expression, except when twinkling with 
 humor or tender with grief. Her voice was strong 
 and clear, and without being masculine, it was far re- 
 moved from the feebleness or shrillness that charac- 
 terize so many female speakers. She was a fine 
 reader, a terse and impressive speaker, and powerful 
 in prayer. Indeed, her power in prayer was remark- 
 able, not so much for ejaculation and rhapsody, as 
 for propriety and conciseness of language, for deep 
 adoration, and implicit faith. Her manners were 
 dignified, yet courteous, her simplicity and natural- 
 ness were in strong contrast with artificial grace and 
 fashionable airs. As a presiding officer her natural* 
 dignity was very apparent, and decorum in her pres- 
 ence seemed a necessity. In this relation her love 
 of system and order was quickly manifested ; indeed, 
 this element of her character showed itself in all de- 
 partments of labor, as well as in the management of 
 her household'. 
 
 " The knowledge of business of all kinds, was a 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W.' Mason. 275 
 
 principal element of her usefulness. Had it been 
 fashionable in her day for women to conduct banking 
 or -mercantile houses, she might have risen to com- 
 manding positions in those directions. 
 
 " Few Christians have come in contact with so 
 great a variety of characters as did Mrs. Mason with-, 
 out having of necessity collided with erratic persons ; 
 but to those who tried her patience most she bore 
 no malice. Evil speaking was never one of her sins. 
 She threw a broad charity over the infirmities of 
 others. 
 
 " Her fine sense led many to seek her counsel on 
 both spiritual and temporal matters. She was quick 
 to perceive the bearings of a case, and when it was 
 fairly measured her advice was prompt and decided ; 
 and if called upon to act as umpire in cases of diffi- 
 culty between parties, her judgment was as impartial 
 as her discernment was clear, and the ability to give 
 'just judgment' arose from her quick analysis of 
 character as well as of events. She seemed instinct- 
 ively to comprehend the motives and qualities of 
 those with whom she was brought into contact. 
 
 " Her excellent sense was associated with rare wit. 
 She had treasured in her capacious memory many a 
 fine adage, whether in sharp prose or sharper rhyme, 
 which she drew out in case of need, to the discomfit- 
 ure of her assailant. But her own mind originated 
 many a sally or repartee that gave spice to her fine 
 conversational powers. Her cheerfulness was per- 
 haps her most prominent trait. It was this that drew 
 children in groups around her, and made her coming 
 
276 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 among them a blessing. Abounding in stories suited 
 to their capacity, she could gain the attention of the 
 most ignorant, and tranquilize the most fretful. 
 
 " To the old and feeble and sorrowful her presence 
 was as sunlight, for she came with material and 
 spiritual comforts flavored with manners of kindness 
 and words of cheer. In the infirmaries, asylums, and 
 hospitals, no step was hailed with greater joy than 
 hers, and no voice carried to wretched hearts more 
 consolation. But those only who knew her best, who 
 were most conversant with her inner life, can appre- 
 ciate her wonderful cheerfulness in her own hours of 
 adversity and suffering. While some periods of her life 
 glowed with the light to which every source of happi- 
 ness contributed, there were others when adversity 
 and bereavement threw deepest darkness across her 
 path. When God's ways were unspeakably mysteri- 
 ous, and all human succor seemed unavailing, then 
 the grandeur of this noble woman's cheerful faith rose 
 in colossal proportions, the admiration of angels and 
 men." 
 
 The following communication is from Rev. J. M. 
 Howe : 
 
 " It is with grateful emotions that I express thank- 
 fulness that the foregoing narrative of one of the most 
 excellent, active, and influential members of our 
 Methodist Episcopal Church has been prepared, and 
 that the work has been accomplished in such a man- 
 ner as to gather up incidents and reminiscences, par- 
 ticularly of her early life, which but for this effort 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 277 
 
 would soon have been beyond recall. Living, as did 
 Mrs. Mason, during the formative period of the 
 Methodist Episcopal Church in. the city of New York, 
 and having been associated with several of our early 
 most distinguished and honorable ministers, all of 
 whom have now passed to their reward ; and acting 
 as she did so conspicuous a part in connection with 
 the educational and benevolent institutions of the 
 Church, as well as pther organizations in our city for 
 the relief and elevation of suffering humanity, a nar- 
 rative of these events becomes at once interesting 
 and useful. Her labors extended from early youth 
 to advanced age, or until her natural powers were 
 abated, and during all these years she exemplified the 
 Christian graces in an eminent degree, particularly 
 exhibited a cheerful resignation amid the vicissitudes 
 and trials through which it was her lot to pass. 
 
 " To those who were best acquainted with Mrs. 
 Mason, and knew the vast amount of labor she ac- 
 complished in the various organizations with which 
 She was connected, in several of which she was placed 
 in the most prominent positions, and this for over 
 half a century, and at the same time devoting much 
 of her efforts to the education of young ladies, it was 
 always a source of remark how she could accom- 
 plish so much. The secret lay in this : her excellent 
 health, both of body and mind, for the most part, and 
 the systematic order with which she went through 
 the routine of her duties. I hear her now as she was 
 wont to remark, ' Let us attend to one thing at a 
 time.' This she was enabled to exemplify by con- 
 
278 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 centrating her powers on that with which, for the 
 time being, she was engaged. In connection with a 
 cheerful temperament,. she had an unshaken trust in 
 God and his promises. In her prayers she took hold 
 upon the Almighty's word, and believed that he would 
 send the peaceful answer down. Truly her prayers 
 were heard in the conversion of all the members of 
 her family, and multitudes of others, to whom her 
 memory is very precious, and in the superintending 
 Providence which caused her declining days to be 
 passed in the home of her daughters, where every 
 attention that love and filial promptings could suggest 
 was bestowed. Thus peacefully and serenely did 
 she await her release from the toils of probation to 
 the more blessed rewards of heaven. 
 
 " It se'ems to me a most fitting tribute to her 
 memory, as well as a blessed legacy to.the Church, 
 that a record of her valuable life should be preserved, 
 not only for the gratification of her personal friends, 
 but for the edification and encouragement of many 
 who may be thereby stimulated to emulate her noble* 
 example. To this sentiment I know many of her 
 Christian friends fully subscribe. 
 
 "New York, April 25, 1870.'' 
 
 It is a fact worthy of notice that nearly all of the 
 charitable societies and institutions which Mrs. Ma- 
 son, with others, was instrumental in forming are still 
 in existence and in successful operation. The earliest 
 of these, the " Female Assistance Society," formed in 
 1813 (see Journal, page 59) for the relief of the sick 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 279 
 
 poor, is still dispensing things temporal and spiritual. 
 For more than fifty years it has numbered among its 
 officers and managers women of devoted piety and 
 of distinguished social position. In its earlier years 
 each Manager visited among the poor of an appor- 
 tioned district. This plan is followed to the present 
 time. 
 
 The wants made manifest in the above Society led 
 to the formation of the " Lying-in-Asylum " for re- 
 spectable married females. It is now in the forty- 
 seventh year of its existence, still in its quiet, unob- 
 trusive way relieving yearly the sufferings of hundreds 
 of virtuous mothers among the poor, at the same time 
 furnishing nurses for helpless infancy among the rich. 
 Mrs. Mason labored in this commendable charity 
 over forty years ; how diligently, the numerous entries 
 in her diary concerning its interests testify. 
 
 The Female Missionary Society, formed in 18 19, 
 (see page 82,) to whose interests Mrs. Mason was 
 devotedly attached, was in existence till 1861, a period 
 of more than forty years. From the report of that 
 year we make some extracts, which show some of the 
 causes which led to its decline. " Almost all of our 
 founders, with the earliest donors and subscribers, 
 have passed away ; several are yet with us, striving 
 to do what they can. Now each Church is desirous 
 to report a large missionary collection ; every Sunday- 
 school is anxious to excel in their contributions. This 
 accounts for our diminished receipts. Now we can 
 be only gleaners in this work. While we regret our 
 shortcomings, yet, as a Society, we may be stimulated 
 
280 Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 
 
 to renewed diligence by a short review of what has 
 been done. We have reason to believe that our col- 
 lections from the commencement of this Society, in 
 1 8 19, have been over $20,000, which (except for small 
 expenses) has been paid to the parent society. Be- 
 sides this, there have been made contributions in 
 clothing, bedding, books, etc., for the mission schools. 
 In earlier years we have done much in assisting mis- 
 sion schools under the car,e of Rev. Wm. Case and 
 Rev. John Clark> (both entered into rest.) In later 
 years we also assisfed the school of the late Mrs. Wil- 
 kins. Our Board has held correspondence with many 
 of the missionary sisters in our own country and in 
 different lands, from South America, Africa, Germany, 
 China, and India. Sister Pierce, in a recent letter 
 from India, (to Mrs. Mason,) writes of success in their 
 school for women and girls, some of whom have been 
 converted." 
 
 Though this time-honored auxiliary was suffered to 
 languish after an honorable record of near fifty years, 
 the utility and usefulness of such an adjunct to the 
 parent Board has been acknowledged by the recent 
 formation of the " Woman's Foreign Missionary So- 
 ciety," whose objects are very similar to its illustrious 
 predecessor. 
 
 SUNDAY-SCHOOLS. 
 
 In consulting the preceding pages it will be seen 
 that Mrs. Mason was the pioneer of Sunday-schools 
 among the Methodists in New York city, if not in 
 the State. What a glow of historic light gathers 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 281 
 
 around the four persons who sat in the large square 
 pew in Old John-street in the year 18 16 ? And what 
 momentous ideas were revolving in the brain of the 
 central figure ©f this group, in whose placid features 
 dignity and benevolence were combined ? Content 
 with the daily fruits of toil, she was unaccustomed to 
 draw largely on her imagination for future triumphs, 
 so in that hour of feeble beginnings she could not 
 have anticipated the day when, beholding the mighty 
 host of teachers and scholars marching in vast lines 
 through Washington Square, she exclaimed with tears, 
 " Behold what God hath wrought !" If she had lived 
 to this day she would have rejoiced in the great truths 
 that Methodism alone claims in this city 50 Sunday- 
 schools, 1,445 teachers, and 13,165 scholars; in this 
 State 2,265 schools, 27,366 officers and teachers, and 
 167,066 scholars ; in the whole Church 16,393 schools, 
 1 84, 5 96. officers and teachers, and 1,179,984 scholars. 
 
 It is an interesting fact, that on the spot where 
 Methodism had its birth fifty years before, the Sunday- 
 school enterprise was born ; and it is a fact of still 
 greater interest that at the end of the remaining half 
 century the child had grown to be as large as its 
 mother. That is to say, the Sunday-school, with a 
 growth of fifty years, had reached in numbers as many 
 as the Church had gathered in one hundred years. 
 
 Happy thought when Robert Raikes conceived the 
 
 Sunday-school ! Happy event when John Wesley 
 
 gave the idea his sanction, and sent it speeding through 
 
 ^old England ! Happier fact to us when Mary Morgan 
 
 reproduced in New York the golden scheme begun 
 
282 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 in England, a scheme which has been the handmaid 
 of the Church, and, more than any other power besides 
 the Church, has raised the two nations to a position 
 of moral power which finds no parallel in history! 
 
 THE FIVE POINTS MISSION. 
 
 It has been already stated that Mrs. Mason was 
 the first female superintendent of the Sunday-school 
 connected with this mission. The locality twenty 
 years ago was world-renowned for- its scenes of ini- 
 quity. The Ladies' Home Missionary Society of our 
 Church resolved to enter that den, and carry with 
 them to the inebriated inhabitants the light of the 
 Gospel. A corner room, previously occupied as a 
 dram-shop, was hired, and a Sunday-school com- 
 menced. Who that were present will ever forget that 
 first day ? Timid women and men approached the 
 Five Points, but were too fearful to enter to the central 
 position where the flag of the enterprise was to be 
 planted, and so they shrunk back ; while the boldest 
 required more than ordinary nerve to venture through 
 lines of dissolute men and women who occupied the 
 sidewalks and thronged the stoop and door-ways. 
 The gathering of the children, the first Sunday- 
 school exercises, the first blear-eyed audience, the 
 temperance society, the class-meeting, the organi- 
 zation of the first Church — all have been placed be- 
 fore the public in various forms. Many noble men 
 and women entered the work with martyr zeal ; no 
 brighter examples of devotion were ever witnessed by « 
 the Church than were manifested by the band of 
 
. Life of Mrs. Mary IV. Mason. 283 
 
 pioneers who daily entered those haunts of sin to 
 rescue the fallen. And in those early days, when the 
 sacrifice was heavy, there stood Mrs. Mason at her 
 post, serene and faithful, renewing at nearly sixty 
 years of age the activities and sacrifices of her youth. 
 Twenty years have now passed away, and behold the 
 results ! Where stood the Old Brewery, far-famed as 
 the rendezvous of thieves and the temporary abode of 
 vagrants, there has been erected a commodious edifice, 
 or rather a series of edifices, wjth accommodations for 
 reformed families, with chapel, school-rooms, super- 
 intendent's residence, and various conveniences for a 
 large and prosperous mission. Opposite is the House 
 of Industry, in part the fruit also of the original move- 
 ment. The houses wear a more respectable exterior ; 
 " Paradise Square," and the contiguous sidewalks, have 
 a more cleanly look ; while there is an entire absence 
 of the throngs of dissolute persons which gave to the 
 " Five Points" its chief characteristic. Since the 
 organization of the Mission not less than 16,000 chil- 
 dren have enjoyed its benefits. Garments, shoes, caps, 
 bedding, coal and food by the cart-load, not to say 
 by the cargo, have been distributed to the needy, 
 while more than 2,000 children and adults have been 
 furnished with homes. What of the vast work of 
 which no count can be kept ? How many tears have 
 been dried up, how many blasphemies stayed, how 
 many kind words spoken, and how many gleams of 
 joy scattered through the moral darkness of that 
 region ! Some of the early laborers, like Mrs. Mason, 
 have entered into rest, while others continue their 
 
284 Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 
 
 ceaseless toil ; so the work begun in weakness, under 
 the Divine blessing, is still going on in strength. 
 
 The Greene-street Female Benevolent Society, - 
 with which Mrs. Mason was connected as directress 
 for twenty-eight years, still pursues its benevolent 
 designs at the return of every cold season, dispensing 
 its charities to the needy, " especially to those of the 
 household of faith." 
 
 The " Home for Aged and Infirm Members of the 
 Methodist Episcopal Church," (see page 188,) whose 
 halls and rooms have been so often trod by Mrs. Ma- 
 son as week after week she visited its inmates, who 
 welcomed her as a friend tried and true, still shelters 
 the feeble, and supports the tottering steps of age. 
 Recently another building has been added, in which 
 aged men are furnished with a comfortable home. 
 Its increasing usefulness, and the zeal of its managers, 
 are tokens for its permanent prosperity. The whole 
 number that have had a home in the "Institution" 
 since its formation is one hundred and ninety-three, 
 of whom eighty-six have died under its care, and 
 twenty-seven left for other homes. Two aged men 
 and their wives are pleasantly situated in the addi- 
 tional building. 
 
 The " Woman's Hospital," whose stately and com- 
 modious building occupies a prominent place in the 
 upper part of the city, yearly relieves hundreds of 
 suffering cases which, were it not for its friendly aid, 
 would drag out a miserable existence. Since the 
 opening of the Hospital, between fourteen and fifteen 
 hundred have been discharged as cured or benefited. 
 
Life of Mrs. Mary W. Mason. 285 
 
 Besides these, about four thousand out-door patients 
 have received medical advice and attendance. Surely 
 gratitude must fill the hearts of these recipients to 
 those whose noble efforts devised this charity, and to 
 the present instrumentalities used for its continuance. 
 •The " Colored Orphan Asylum," with which Mrs. 
 Mason was connected for a few years, and in whose 
 youthful inmates she took great interest, has removed 
 to a large and commodious building at One-hundred- 
 and-forty-third-street. Here a large number of desti- 
 tute colored children are clothed, fed, and schooled, 
 thus preparing them to be useful citizens. 
 
 THE END. 
 
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