ROBERT FINLEY, D.D. OF Till REV. ROBERT FINLEY, D.D. LATE PASTOR or THE PRESBYTERIAN CONGREGATION AT BASKING KIDGE NKW-JKRSBY, AND PRESIDENT OF FRANKLIN COLLEGE; LOCATED AT ATHENS, IN THE STATE OF GEORGIA. WITH BRIEF SKETCHES OF SOME OF HIS COTEMPORARIEb, AND NUMEROUS NOTES. BY THE REV. ISAAC V. BROWN, A. M. ===== \> v lVElV.BRUKSWICK : PUBLISHED BIT TERHUNE & LETSON. 1819. iV HTIR, PRINTEn. E4 4S DISTRICT OF NEW-JERSEY, ... ^•°"°~§ 13 E it remembered, that on the twelfth day of April, in the forty third l_^^j X3 year of the independence of the United Slates of America, Isaac V. Brown, of the said District, hath deposited in this office the title ol a book, the right win reof he chums as author, in the words following, to wit : — "Memoirs of the Rev Roberi Finlcy, D. D. late Pastor of the Presbyterian Congregation a! Basking Ridge, New Jersey, and President of Franklin College, located at Vthens, in the state of Georgia; with brie! Sketches of some of his eotfinporaries, and numerous Notes. By the Rev. Isaac V Brown, A. M." 1q coniormity to an act of the Congress of the United States entitle d an ast for the encouragement of learning, by securing the copies of maps, charts and books, to the authors and proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned ; and also to the act, entitl d an act supplementary to the act enti led an act for the encouragement of 'learning, by -enuring the copies of maps, charts aol book* to the authors and proprietors o; such copies, during the times therein mention- ed, and extending tiie benefits thereof to the arts of designing, etching and en- graving historical and other prints. WILLIAM PENNINGTON, t'lejkyf the District of iN ew-Jerjcr PREFACE. An intelligent gentleman, in the congregation of Basking Kidge, many years ago, while contempla- ting his beloved pastor, in the midst of his ministeri- al labours and successes, made the following decla- ration : " Were I ambitious, I would rather be Robert Finley than Caesar or Bonaparte !" And truly his character was so exalted and pure, his life so conspicuous and useful his transactions so judicious and important, and his name so dear, that forming, in this Transitory world, a memo i&l of his excellence, is an act, not less of justice to him, than of kindness to ourselves. Few men have re- cently appeared on the stage of life, more truly and deeply devoted to the interests of Christ's kingdom and the good of mankind ; few men have been so early in life, so prominently and so indefatigably en- gaged in enterprises of benevolence and piety ; few men have performed so many labours in the church, and enjoyed so great a harvest of success in the di- vine service, as Dr. Finley. There are therefore but few, whose claims upon the church and upon the world, for posthumous regard, are so clear and so strong, as his, and there have recently been few whose lives and characters are so well calculated to instruct, to animate and profit others. Vl PREFACE. It was under the influence of such sentiments re- specting Dr. Finley, that the resolution, to attempt preparing a biographical view of his character and life, was first formed. The narrow limits, then con- templated, have been insensibly and unavoidably surpassed : — that which was originally expected to make a pamphlet, or, at most, a small 12 mo. has been necessarily enlarged and put into the form of an octavo. In the course of the narrative, the names of several deceased ministers of the gospel rose in- to view, who are still remembered with interest by some and who deserve the tribute of recollection and respect which is here paid to them. Dr. Finley was so earnestly devoted to the busi- ness of education in all its degrees and relations, that in order to illustrate fully his views and transactions in regard to that subject, as well as others, it was thought expedient to introduce in the form of notes at the close of the volume several essays or discus- sions, on topics incidentally connected with the nar- rative. This measure was adopted the more readily, because it afforded the writer an opportunity to incor- porate with these illustrations, a few hints and sug- gestions on the same subjects, which have occurred to him during the last ten years while engaged in the business of instruction, and which are also the re- sult of some reflection upon the state and prospects of American literature. With regard to the manner in which the work has been executed, the writer would observe that PREFACE. Vll he is fully sensible of the correctness and force of the remark : — " Difficile est proprie communxa dicere." Nevertheless he has dared to disregard an injunc- tion of the same high classic authority : — " Sape stylum vertas iterum y qiue digna legi sint Scripturus." Having enjoyed neither much leisure, nor good health, during the period in which the manuscript, of the following memoirs &c. was prepared, he has not pleased himself, and cannot therefore, expect, very extensively, to please others. His great object has been to draw a true character, rather than a hand- some portrait — to make an honest and useful, rather than a splendid volume — to place correctly before our view that high, " Exemplar vita morumque" which this deceased man of God uniformly exhibi- ted while among us — and thus, to render to the Heavenly Father a deserved and lasting tribute of praise for the signal manifestations of his grace, which we behold in the life of his servant. On the whole, if this volume shall be found to record events and to detail transactions conducive to the honour of God, to human improvement and Christian comfort ; — if it shall, in sr.me small measure furnish materials to ^ssist others, hereaf- ter, in forming a connected and expanded view of the church of Christ and of divine benefi- cence and grace to men ; — if, by exhibiting the ar- Vlll PREFACE. dent and unwearied exertions of this distinguished and excellent servant of the Lord, it shall be instru- mental in strengthening the resolutions and exciting the zeal of survivors, to follow him in his pious and benevolent career, to repair the loss which is sustain- ed by his lamented removal, to preserve from fail- ure and carry to perfection the plans of benevolence, from the prosecution of which, he was suddenly withdrawn, the end of this publication will be accom- plished. And to make it productive of these happy results, may the divine benediction rest upon it ! Lawrenceviile, JY. J. January 7, 1310 CONTENTS. VIEW of Mr. James Finley, father of Robert 9 Robert Finley's birth and early education - - 14 Enters College - - - - 15 His first serious impression, his success in College, - - 16 Graduates and commences teaching - - 16 His success in this employment, invitation to Maryland 17 Takes charge of an Academy at Allentown, makes a public profession of religion, invited to teach in Charleston - - 18 Extracts from his diary in Charleston - - - 19 Returns to New-Jersey and commences the study of Theology - 24 Is made Tutor in College, extracts from his diary there - - 24 Mr Finley's licensure and ordination - - - 23 His marriage - - - 31 The origin and progress of his school - - 31 Immediate benefit of his ministry - - 38 An awakening is experienced • • - 39 Mr. Finley's account of this great event • - 40 His great zeal and powerful exertion - - - 50 His efforts to retain the Bible in English Schools - - 53 Is elected a Trus'ee of Princeton College - - 54 Another excitement is felt in his parish - - - 55 Air. Finley appointed to preach the Missionary Sermon, before the Genral Assembly in Philadelphia - - - 55 Is appointed same year a delegate to the General Association of Connecticut 55 A very interesting scene at Basking Ridge - - 56 Mr. Finley labors in Sussex and other places • 57 He and Mr. VVoodhull originate the Bible Class system - - 6 Transactions of Presbytery respecting it - 61 of the Synod - - 62 of the General Assembly - 63 Mr Finley introduces the system into his parish - - 65 Divine blessing follows — youth awakened — a great excitement 16 produced 65 Mr. Finley's tours in the skirts of his parish - - 70 His health becomes impaired - - • 7.5 The Colonization Society formed December 1816 - • 75 View of his agency in this business, his visit to Washington, exertion' there, publications on the subject, journey home, measures at Philadelphia and Trenton - . - 75 IV CONTENTS. Mr. Finley invited to settle as a pastor in Washington - - 10S His invitation to Georgia, correspondence on the subject of removal 109 Conflict in his mind, but he resolves to go - - 116 Resigns his seat as Trustee of College, is honored with the degree of D. D, from College of Princeton . . . 116 Is separated from his congregation and dismissed from the Presbytery of New-Brunswick . . . .117 Takes leave of his congregation . . .119 Sets off for New York— sails, &c. . . 124 Arrives at Savannah . . . 125 Letters giving a statement of Grst impressions . . 126 A sketch of the College at Athens, its situation, resources, &c. . 133 Dr. Finley's first measures, recommendations, &c. . 138 His labors in College — in the Village . . . 140 First commencement . . „ 142 Dr. Finley's fatal tour ..... 143 He attends Presbytery . ... 145 He preaches there . . . . 146 Attends a Sacramental service, distant from Athens . . . 147 Is taken sick, his disease, some observations on his sick bed 148 Communications relating to his illness and death . .149 Impressions made on the public mind . . . . 152 Obituary notice of bim published in Georgia . . , 153 Recommendation of the Senatus Academicus . . 155 Transactions of the Trustees of Franklin College . 156 Letter of consolation to an afflicted Lady . . . 158 Additional letters on various subjects . . . 162 General view of his publications .... 170 A summary of his character . ... 175 NOTES, SKETCHES, &c. Note A. Dangers of sending sons too early to college . 189 Note B. Advantages of teaching to young men . . 193 Note C. Sketch of Rev. J. F. Armstrong . ,197 Note D. Sketch of Rev. G T Snowden . . .205 Note E. Sketch of Rev. Dr. Jos. Clark ... 213 Note F. Sketch of Rev. Samuel Kennedy . . . 229 Note G. Sketch of Rev. Jas. Caldwell, &c. . . . 237 Note H. A view of Revivals . . . 251 Note I. Importance of employing good English Teachers . . 299 Note J. Propriety of using the Bible in English Schools . . 303 Note K. Excellence of the Bible Class system . . . 307 Note L. Dialogues on the African Colony . . . 313 Note M. Hints for improving Schools and Colleges . . . 347 Note N. Sketch of Rev. William Boyd ... .361 MEMOIRS OF REV. ROBERT FINLEY, D.D. &c. &c, Mr. James Finley, father of the subject of this narra- tive, was born in Glasgow, Scotland, A.D. 1737. Be- fore he reached his eighteenth year, religion took a powerful hold of his mind. It pleased God, early to lay him low, and to hold him long under deep convictions and apprehensions, in a state of suspense and anxiety, so awful as nearly to break the power of his reason and the vigour of his frame. At the set time, God re- vealed himself in mercy, to this convinced and mourning sinner, inspiring hope and gladness, where guilt and horror had lately reigned. Through life, he often spoke of the sore conflicts he then endured, and declar- ed his full belief, that, though painful for the present, they had been good and salutary, working out to him, more abundantly, the peaceable fruits of righteous7icss. Mr. Finley was trained to the business of a yam merchant, in his native city. In the prosecution of this employment, he supplied himself with materials, by at- tending the fairs of the surrounding country, where the commodities, in which he dealt, were exhibited for sale, in great abundance and variety. On account of his su- perior ability and fidelity in his profession, he was pro- moted to the office of superintendent, and discharged 10 MEMOIRS OF the duties of inspector of the yarn factories in Glasgow and its vicinity. He became, very early, acquainted with the Rev. John Witherspoon, who was then an eminent minister of the gospel, exercising his pastoral functions in the town of Paisley, about six miles distant from Glasgow. So warm was his regard for Mr. Witherspoon, that he frequently left the church, to which he was attached, in his native city, and walked to Paisley, on Sabbath days, to attend the ministrations of his admired friend. His attachment to him, became unusually sincere and strong. He admired him as a preacher of the gospel : he rejoic- ed in his efforts to restore pure Presbyterian govern- ment in the church of Scotland : he sympathised with him in the struggles and persecutions he encountered in his attempts, thus, to set aside the corrupt and oppressive system of patronage, which had been imposed upon the people. Dr. Witherspoon, warmly reciprocated the respect and affection, of his pious and excellent friend. After accepting the presidency of Princeton College, and emi- grating to America, A. D. 1T68, he invited him to come over and settle in the same place. Mr. Finley yielded to this solicitation, and with his wife, whose maiden name was Angres, landed at New-York, in 1769. At Princeton, the intercourse and familiarity, commenced in Scotland, were renewed, and continued till termina- ted, by the death of the illustrious President, A. D. 1794. In this village Mr. Finley, pursued, with dili- gence and respectability the mechanical occupation of weaving, for which his employment in Scotland, seem- ed, in some measure, to qualify him. Here also he oc- cupied for many years, the office of ruling elder in the 13 DK. FINLEV. • .1 • ami Presbyterian church. He Mas an eminently pious a, exemplary Christian. His faculties of mind naturally strong and active, had been long and earnestly employ- ed on the noblest subjects. His memory strongly re- tentive, was richly stored with a knowledge of the Ho- ly Scriptures and of human life ; and his zeal and enga- gedness in religion being uncommonly lively and uni- form, he was truly an instructing and interesting com- panion and a highly useful and valuable member of socie- ty. Many wise and good men, sought his company and frequented his house, to be edified by his intelligent and pious conversation, and to be animated in ways of piety, by his fervent prayers and glowing zeal. During the struggles of the American colonies for lib- erty and independence, Mr. Finley manifested that he had, indeed, adopted this, as his country. He was a warm and decided advocate and supporter of the Ameri- can revolution. He was employed, as clothier to a bri- gade of American troops and held this office while the English were in possession of Princeton. He continued at home during this period, and had constant intercourse with several British officers, who quartered in his house, without incurring the charge of indifference to the cause of the colonies, on the one hand, or making him- self peculiarly obnoxious to the enemy, on the other. He suffered much in his temporal interests, in the result of this agency, by receiving almost the whole of his com- pensation, for revolutionary services which he had ren- dered, and private moneys which he had expended, in the currency of the provinces, when it had sunk to almost nothing. This was peculiarly afflicting to him, inasmuch as by misfortunes, in his native country, hi? 10 MEMOIRS OK jj^. iiary circumstances had become much reduced and -S prospects of reinstatement very dubious. AVhile residing at Princeton, Mr. Finley correspond- ed for many years with David Dale, Esq,* the honoura- ble Bailiff of the district he had inhabited in Scotland. Epistolary intercourse with that distinguished and ex- cellent man, was continued after Mr. Finley's decease by his son Robert. It is a subject of deep regret that the letters of this correspondence, very valuable and in- teresting on many accounts, cannot be obtained. * The following sketch of this distinguished and excellent man is taken from the Assembly' 1 s Missionary Magazine for the year 1306, page 34 1 : — Died " at Glasgow, on the 17th current, in the 68th year of his age, David Dale, Esq of Rosebank, late one of the magistrates of that city. The character of this good man comprehended in it so many points of excellence, that only an imperfect outline of it can here be given. He had not enjoyed the advantage of a polished or liberal education ; but this want was compensated by a large share of natural sagacity and sound sense, by an accurate and discriminating knowledge of human character, and by a modest and dignified simplicity of manner, which secured to him universal respect and attention. A zealous promoter of general industry and of the manufactures of his country, his schemes of business were ex- tensive and liberal, conducted with singular prudence and perseverance, and, by the blessing of God, were crowned with such abundant success as served to ad- vance his rank in society and to furnish him with the means of that diffusive be- nevolence which rendered his life a public blessing and shed a lustre on his char- acter that has been but too rarely exemplified. Impelled by the powerful influ- ence of that truth which he firmly believed and zealously taught, constrained by the love and animated by the example of his blessed Master, his ear was neve r shut to the cry of distress ; his private charities were boundless ; and every pub- lic institution which had for i ts object the alleviation or prevention of human mise- ry, in this world or the world to come, received from him the most liberal sup- port and encouragement. For while the leading object of his life was the diffu- sion of the light of truth in the earth, he gladly embraced every opportunity of becoming, like the patriarchs of old, " eyes to the blind, and feet to the lame," and of causing " the widow's heart to sing for joy." In private life, his conduct, actuated by the same principles, was equally exemplary ; for he was a kind parent, a generous friend, a wise and faithful counsellor, " a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sc Vr, just, holy, temperate.". And now, having thus occupied his tal- ents, he hath " entered into the joy of his Lord. Mark the perfect and behold • he upright, for the end of that man is peace." DR. FINLEY. 1' Mr. Finley visited Dr. Witherspoon frequently ami affectionately towards the close of his life, and attended him with peculiar kindness and faithfulness as a friend, in his last sickness. Soon after the death of Dr. Wither- spoon, he resolved to spend the residue of his days in the society of his sons, Robert and Alexander, and accor- dingly moved to Basking Ridge, the place of their abode. His age, his infirmity, his circumstances altogether had be- come such as to require filial attention and kindness. And here, while this patriarchal friend of God, receiv- ed the respect and veneration of all around him, he en- joyed the most affectionate and faithful attention of his sons, residing near him, and especially of his son Robert, whose circumstances enabled him to indulge all his filial fondness, by providing for his beloved, and declining pa- rent, every thing necessary for his ease and comfort. At Basking Ridge Mr. Finley was elected a member of session, and faithfully discharged the duties of ruling elder in that congregation. His personal appearance, his established reputation, his considerable knowledge, his ardent piety, and unblemished deportment, all con- tributed to render him a peculiarly suitable person to fill that station. He was tall, erect and slender — his features were strong and prominent — his head was whitened with years — his whole aspect was peculi- arly grave, dignified and solemn. These circumstan- ces, associated with uncommon intelligence of mind and sanctity of character, gave great respectability and interest to his frequent performances, in the rcligiou ? societies uniformly held, and in the occasional meetings of the congregation, in the absence of their pastor, where he generally assisted. His pra} 7 ers on these occasions, were remarkable for comprehensiveness, for weighty matter, and for profound devotion. 14 MEMOIRS OF When death appeared to be drawing- near, he con- templated his dissolution, with great calmness and sat- isfaction. On being asked, when apparently near his close, how he felt, he replied, "just as I wish to feel!" When almost exhausted, he intimated a desire that all his relatives, in the vicinity, should be assembled around his bed, that he might take a last view of the only ob- jects on earth, which he considered dear to him and commit them to God. And after being gently raised up by his son Robert, he cast his eves complacently round up- on the interesting group and raising them towards heaven, feebly whispered "it is done," and sweetly expired in the seventy-second year of his age, in the full and joy- ful hope of a glorious immortality through Jesus Christ. Such men are the salt of the earth ! the light of the world ! — How happy, to be a Christian ! — How inestima- ble the privilege and blessing of being descended from such a parent ! ! Robert Finley was born at Princeton, New-Jersey, A. D. 1772. He was very early instructed in the ele- ments of the English language, and in his eighth year, commenced the study of the Latin, in his native village. The salutary effects of early parental instruction and care, were soon discoverable in him. For a youth of his age, he was uncommonly grave and judicious in his deportment. After passing, in a short period, through the hands of a number of teachers, it was happily order- ed that he should here become a pupil of Mr. Ashbel Green, the same gentlemen who is now President of the College of New-Jersey. At this period, Mr. Green was a student in college, and the studies of his class not be- ing sufficient to occupy the whole of his attention, by the advice of Dr. Witherspoon, he spent half his time in DR. FINLEV. I J teaching the grammar school, which was then under the doctor's superintendence. While this arrangement con- tributed to increase the classical accuracy and general respectability of the youthful instructor, it had a tenden- cy no less happy, to advance the interesting pupil in his academic course, and to lay the foundation of that pre eminence, in this important department of literature, to which he rose in after life. He was observed by his teacher, to be a youth, considering his age, of much more than ordinary stability of character, closeness of application, and penetration of mind. He was not sat- isfied, at this early period, with devoting the usual hours to study ; but frequently, in leisure seasons, he waited on his teacher, in his private apartment, to obtain from him, more fully, the explanations and aids, which he found necessary, to enable him successfully to prosecute his prescribed daily course. In the eleventh* year of his age, he was admitted in- to the college, as a member of the freshman class. Mr. Green, having, at the commencement preceding, re- ceived his first degree in the liberal arts, and having been subsequently elected tutor in college, here again found with pleasure, placed under his personal instruc- tion and management, the lad who had, the year before, been his pupil in the grammar school. In the sopho- more class, during the year following, the same relation subsisted between this respectable teacher and promis- ing scholar. The means and opportunities thus enjoyed by Mr. Finley, to become thoroughly acquainted with the^ Greek and Latin languages, which were the princi- pal subjects of study in the two lower classes of college. See note A. at the end of this narrative. 16 MEMOIRS OF were as good as could have been desired. And experi- ence has abundantly proved, that he was an apt and suc- cessful student, making such improvement, as to reflect honour on his principal instructor, and to secure the reputation of eminence in this branch of science. About the time of his entering the junior class in col- lege, he gave evidence that God had visited him in mer- cy, and impressed his mind deeply with a sense of the importance of religion. It was even hoped, by his fond and anxious friends, that he had experienced a gracious change, and passed from death unto life. Modest and distrustful, he did not view his spiritual state, in so fa- vourable and satisfactory a light as others did, with whom he conversed on this interesting subject. He halted, and continued in painful suspense for a conside- rable time ; but God, having begun this good work, car- ried it on unto perfection. Although the mathematical, philosophical and belles lettres studies, with which the junior and senior classes are chiefly occupied, were somewhat above the years and capacity of our young student, yet he appeared, through the whole of his collegiate course, respectable for scholarship, as well as deportment : and he was ad- mitted to the degree of bachelor of arts, by the trustees of the college at Princeton, in his sixteenth year. Having thus early finished the course of his educa- tion, a question of great importance was now to be de- cided ; how he should be employed. Dr. Witherspoon, the friend of the father, was also the friend and adviser of the son. During the first winter after leaving college. Mr. Finley was employed, under the superintendence of the venerable president, as teacher of the grammar school. Here he began to manifest that peculiar talent DR. FINLEY. 17 for the government and instruction of youth, which he afterwards exercised and displayed, in several stations, in a manner so highly reputable to himself, and useful to the public. A considerable number of the pupils were from the south, farther advanced in years than the teacher, irreg- ular and insubordinate in their temper and manners. Mr. Finley proceeded with energy, to introduce order, and establish discipline in the institution. The elder portion of the youth manifested a refractory temper, re- sisted his regulations, and, on being urged to comply, broke out into open rebellion, in hopes of intimidating the youthful instructor, and constraining him to connive at their idle and disorderly habits. He maintained his au- thority with dignity and firmness, suspended the refrac- tory, and referred their case to Dr. Witherspoon, under whose superintendence he acted, and under whose guardianship most of the young men were placed. Dr. Witherspoon, being informed of these circumstances, visited the school; investigated the whole matter; pro- nounced his full and decided approbation of the meas- ures and conduct of Mr. Finley ; established the influ- ence of his young friend, by the whole weight of his own dignity and authority; compelled the disorderly to make suitable acknowledgments, and to return sub- missively to their studies, under the very system against which they had revolted. After some time spent in this employment, Mr. Finley was invited to take charge of a respectable seminary in the state of Maryland. With a view of complying with this invitation, he visited that state; but Providence frowned upon this arrangement. Just as he reached the place of destination, the academy was destroyed by 3 18 MEMOIRS OF fire, and his prospect of employment and usefulness there, entirely blasted. He returned immediately to his native place, and accepted an invitation to teach the academy at Allentown, New-Jersey. The Presbyterian congregation existing there, was then under the pasto- ral care of the Rev. Joseph Clark, through whose in- strumentality, Mr. Finley was obtained to teach the academy. Mr. Finley's mind had been very seriously exercised, upon the subject of religion, already, more than two years. His impressions increased with his growing age and maturity. During the time now spent in Allentown, his pious exercises and inquiries were brought, by Di- vine Grace, to a happy result. The serious public dis- courses and pious conversation of Mr. Clark, were pe- culiarly blessed to his spiritual interest and comfort, so that now, in his seventeenth year, he entered into co- venant with God, made a profession of his faith, and was admitted to commune Avith the church, in the Lord's supper. While in this situation, he Avas solicited to undertake the business of instruction, in the city of Charleston, South Carolina. Although he Avas young and inexpe- rienced, the contemplated place of employment remote, the station conspicuous, and the labours arduous; yet he yielded to the request, and ventured himself into the society and service of strangers, trusting in the protec- tion and care of his Almighty Friend. Here he Avas kindly received and entertained. His services at Charleston Avere highly acceptable to the public, and honourable to himself. The acquaintances which he formed Avith families of distinction, and the attachments he conciliated, during his residence in that city, Avere DR. FIKLEY. 1H useful to him through life ; and, probably, opened the way for his receiving, a few years before his death, a call to undertake the pastoral service, there, with a provision corresponding with the wealth and liberality of the southern people. He enjoyed the society and kind attentions of several highly accomplished, pious and excellent families, who were heard to speak of his visits and conversation, in terms of high approbation and satisfaction. The amiable, intelligent and heavenly minded consort* of the Rev. Dr. Keith, of that city, took a deep interest in Mr. Finley, invited him very frequently and affectionately to her house, enjoyed much of his company, and bore a strong and pleasing- testimony in favour of his good sense, great prudence, and humble piety, at this early period. A kw extracts from a very brief diary, which he kept while teaching in the city of Charleston, unquestionably for his own exclusive use, will serve to confirm the esti- mate of his piety, made by his friends around him, and to illustrate further his religious character, at this time : "November 28th, 1791. — As I began school this morning, in Charleston, after praising God for preserv- ing mercy, I prayed for divine assistance in my whole duty; for the spirit of grace and supplication; for re- pentance and reformation : in the evening, for a blessing on the Church, and my Princeton friends in particular ; to be preserved from the corrupt notions and fashions of the world ; and to live altogether to the glory of God, in humility and godly sincerity. " 30th. — Rose between six and seven, thanked God for preserving mercy, prayed for the presence of the * Mrs. Keith was a daughter of the venerable Dr. James Sproat, of the citv of Philadelphia. 20 MEMOIRS OF Lord through the day, for much of his love — after break- fast, for his direction in the business of the day — at noon, for the influences of the Holy Spirit, and for the church — for the same at night; prayed for preparation for the table of the Lord ; for a blessing on the church, and the pardon of sin; for protection; for faith and humility; for the prosperity of Zion, that I might live as a Chris- tian. " December 1st. — I got up after six and blessed God for his mercy in preserving me through the night ; pray- ed to be guided by the holy Spirit, for help to discharge the duties of the day, as becomes a Christian — in the evening again I prayed for a blessing at the church and on the church, for my absent friends, that the Lord would forgive my sins and show me them forgiven, that I might praise him. " 9th. — This morning I returned thanks for the mercy of the night past, prayed for much of the presence of God through the day. — After breakfast, prayed for wis- dom from above to direct me in all things. At noon, in the evening and at night, prayed, that as I had re- solved if it should please the Lord I would engage in the ministry, I might not be drawn from it by the world : prayed for pardon and acceptance, through the blood of Jesus, for the scholars that they might be re- strained from sin, for boldness in the cause of Christ — did at no time forget my absent friends and the interest of Zion. "Jan. 1, 1792. — Being the beginning of the year, I confessed my sins and prayed for pardon. In the morn- ing was very unconcerned, but blessed be God my heart was somewhat warmed — renewed engagements to be for the Lord. Pride struggling much in my heart DR. FINLETf. 21 about dress, I resolved to add nothing to it of superflui- ties, as powder, ruilles, nor to be running after the fash- ions, till the desire of them should arise from love to God — and if I dine out on the Sabbath,* 1 attend the worship of God. So help, Oh ! Lord. " 2d. — I rose about seven this morning - , returned thanks for the mercy of the night past, prayed for the divine pres- ence through the day, prayed six times to be cleansed from my sins, for all my friends that we might all grow in grace and be comforted by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. " 3d. — This morning felt in a good frame of mind, but it did not continue, the world got possession — wrote a letter to my brother and sister on the subject of reli- gion. " 4th. — This day I paid a visit to Mrs. Tennent, with whom I had some pleasant religious conversation — re- turned thanks for the mercy of the Lord in this respect. "5th. — This day had very much reason to complain of vhe absence of every holy affection, and that the world had taken so much possession of my whole soul — prayed to be delivered from all this and to have my heart renewed and every heavenly grace implanted — Amen. O Lord. * Dining nut at all on the Sabbath day, may be thought inconsistent with reli gious duty and in geneial doubtless is so. But to form n just estimate of this reso- lution, it must be considered that Mr. Finley had no family, whose good order might be interrupted by his absence, and that the iamilies where he dined were probably of a religions character and the conversation with such friends would be at once pleasing and profitable : and that he here made it a fixed point that this social intercourse should not prevent his attendance on divine worship in the aftei part of the day Probably, longer experience and more reflection, would and may have changed the resolution into this — I will not dine out on the Sabboth unless called to it, in the course of divine providence by some peculiar and evident ne- cessity or duty. 22 MEMOIRS OF " February 2. — I prayed much to be prepared for the celebration of the supper of the Lord, to have my sins forgiven and a comfortable assurance of my interest in Christ Jesus. But in the evening through attachment to company I very much neglected the time of prayer. "3d. — Prayed to have my heart prepared for every duty, but still there was much folly in me, and I got no comfort from the word of God. May the Lord have mercy on me ! "4th. — I prayed this day much for the Holy Spirit of God to direct me and to prepare me to sit at his table — visited Mr. Hollingshead, and blessed be God, in con- versation, enjoyed much satisfaction about religion — confessed my sins, unbelief, dislike to duty, wandering thoughts, hardness of heart, want of love to God, sinful passions, neglect of the scriptures, pled for pardon through Jesus — laid my wants and necessities before the Lord, and prayed to have them supplied from his fulness. " 5th. — This day I sat to commemorate the dying love of Jesus at his table — confessed my sins, and I trust had them forgiven, and had my heart somewhat inflamed with divine love, and felt desirous for the glory of God. Took comfort from Heb. — ' For ye are not come to Mount Sinai', &c. The Lord was very merciful to me, arid blessed be his name forever. Amen. "August 20, 1792. — I was somewhat earnest in pray- er to day for the destruction of sin and for the quicken- ing of languishing graces : yet in the evening indulged lively and too many loose thoughts mingled with pious desires. Oh Lord transform me into thine image. "23d. — I went to society and being there put to pray- er, I was at a loss till the Lord gave me words and he gave just as I had need. DR. FINLRY. 23 " 2.5th. — I attended upon religious duties with much pleasure to day, and I hope with some profit. "26th.— I spent this Sabbath with much satisfaction, and in earnest prayer for my soul and for the kingdom of Zion : yet there was some folly mixed withal. O Lord I am vile. " 27th. — I felt grateful to day for mercies, but through much of it, religion was dull. Oh Lord, if not for thy mercy I am undone forever. "September 21. — I spent this morning in reading and a form of prayer, but my mind was fall of the world : yet I trust I was a little strengthened by the morning sermon. The afternoon, however, would condemn me, had I never lived another. I was truly dreadfully stu- pid, unconcerned and hard hearted. Nothing but free grace can save me. " 22, 23, 24. — These three days were much like all the rest of my life, full of sin and great iniquity, the spirit truly warring against the flesh and the flesh against the Spirit, and the latter with but too much success. " 26th. — This day was to me much more pleasant than yesterday. There were many seasons in which my soul cried out for God : but my heart was full of anxiety and tossings, with respect to the world and my returning home. It pleased the Lord to bring Mr. S to see me a few minutes, that my heart might be stirred." The preceding extracts from several successive months of Mr. Finley's diary, during the time spent at Charleston, manifest a deep, humble and uniform sense of sin and guilt — a constant and vigilant attention to his inmost thoughts and exercises of mind — a disposition to deny himself and to resist the fashions and the allure- ments of the world— a thorough persuasion of entire de- 24 MEMOIRS OF pendence upon God for all good things and ardent desires after his communion and likeness — a spirit and habit of prayer and supplication for personal sanctification, and for the prosperity of religion in the world. The whole is expressed in that simple manner which was natural to him. Having resolved to devote himself to the service of God in the ministry of his Son, he became very desirous now, of placing himself in a situation where he could more successfully prosecute the studies preparatory to that sacred office. For this purpose in the Autumn of 1792, he relinquished his lucrative and laborious station in Charleston ; returned to his native place ; resumed the instruction of the grammar school in Princeton ; and commenced the study of theology under the superin- tendence of the venerable President* of Nassau Hall. His age and maturity, his classical accuracy and general improvement, had now become such, that he advanced with uncommon facility and advantage, in the course prescribed by his judicious and distinguished theological instructor. Mr. Finley's peculiar capacity for the government and instruction of youth, having been rendered striking- ly manifest, he was very soon transferred, with univer- sal approbation, from the grammar school, to the office of tutor in college. This promotion was effected through the united influence of Dr. Witherspoon, president of * It was a happy circumstance in the order of providence, that he was enabled to enjoy the instructions of Dr. Witherspoon, a philosopher and divine, probably, inferior to no man, in regard to accurate, profound and extensive views, on every subject of theology and ecclesiastical history, of civil government and human life. DR. FINLEY. -' the college, and of the Rev. Dr. Samuel S. Smith,* vice- president, upon whom the chief management of the insti- tution had devolved, in consequence of the advanced age and growing infirmities of his illustrious father-in-law. In the capacity of tutor, Mr. Finley continued some time, laboriously discharging the duties of that office, and close- ly applying himself to the several subjects and exercises assigned him, as a student of theology. In this arduous and responsible station, his vigilance and fidelity render- ed him both popular and successful. Through the whole of this period, the realities of re- ligion appear to have exercised a powerful influence over his feelings and views. That the reader may judge of the state of his mind, a few extracts from his diary, which was continued at this time, will here be inserted. The record does not ascertain the particular year in which it was written, but exhibits satisfactory internal evidence, that it was made while he was tutor in college. "September 1st. — This day was another Sabbath. It pleased God that I heard a sermon, from Psalm xcii. 12 — * Teach me so to number my days,' &c. which was the means of warming my affections, and raising my de- sires after God. I felt my misery, that I am so chained down, and so easily engaged in every vanity and folly. " 2d. — I was engaged in hard study ; wrote part of a sermon, during which time my heart was warmed and engaged. Prayer se r med pleasant, and I frequently sent ejaculations ; conversed a while with Mr. H . and said to him what I could * Mr. Finley was frequently heard to speak, with peculiar satisfaction, of the important advantages he derived in the latter part of his term of study, from the instruction and attention of Dr. Smith, who was then fast approaching the meri- dian of his usefulness and splendour. 4 26 MEMOIRS OF "3d. — Was very much engaged in study, and also my mind was pleased in religious exercises, though I have it too much to lament, that I cannot love the Lord more, and serve him with a more animated zeal. " 4th. — Thought early of God and religion this morn- ing, even at rising. Studied hard, and with success, un- til breakfast ; shortly after, was shocked with a report that a young acquaintance, F. Stone, was hurried un- timely to the tomb, by a contagious disease ;* which ought to have made me tremble ; at length, however, it set me to prayer, that my evidences might be brighten- ed for eternity, and I prepared to go, if called. " 5th — I prayed often and earnestly to-day, that I might have my evidences brightened for eternity. A few of us met and united in prayer, that the destroying angel might be stopped, and the plague arrested in its course, and that it might be well with me. " 6th, 8th. — My mind was much taken up with my pros- pects, these days. I thought it probable I should die immediately, and prayed earnestly that my views might be made clear for eternit}^. "9th. — T. was still anxious, lest I should be infected with this fatal disease, and I prayed earnestly, that I might be prepared for death, whenever it should appear. * This contagious disease was the yellow fever, which appeared in Philadel- phia, for the first time, after a long interval, in August, 1793. In the course of about three months, in that year, this dreadful disease swept offnearly five thou- sand of the inhabitants of that city, was generally considered as extremely infec- tious, and spread the utmost alarm over the continent. In this year occurred the case to which Mr. Finley refers in his diary. Mr. F. Stone, a young gentle- man from the south, who had been in the college, having been engaged in the study of law in Philadelphia, during the prevalence of the fever, came on to Princeton, was taken ill, and soon died. The disease was then considered as a sort of plague, and several of the students had had intercourse with Mr. Stone in his illness, without being aware of the nature of his disease at the time. DR. FINLEY. 21 " 10th, 11th. — I was by no means so much engaged these days, either in study or religion, being exceeding- ly hindered in my room by company. On Wednesday, however, I had a very serious and profitable conversation with Mr. C. S , and on the eleventh, with Mr. R. Russel, upon the necessity of keeping close to our duty, wherever we may be, and discovering to each other the fallacy of our excuses, and the unreasonableness of our neglect, as it arises from want of resolution, or from coldness. "12th. — This day was not a profitable day to me: my mind was too much impressed with some of the af- fairs of life, so that I forgot our meeting on Thursday evening. " 13th. — Was a pleasant day to me; my mind was in a calm and heavenly state ; all seemed to be peace and harmony, and prayer was much my delight. " There was but little variation in the state of my mind ; and though I prayed earnestly at the times of prayer, yet my mind through the day was either enga- ged about the world, or possessed with a languor, and too much stupidity. In the evening I retired with my friend Mr. Russel, to the wood, where however I did not enjoy much of the presence of God, as I fear. "My mind was anxiously engaged in the lawful pursuits of the world, which however became unlawful by excessive application, so that my mind seemed to forget that I was made for immortality. The cares of office engrossed much attention in the night. " It was a good day for me, and I was enabled to rejoice ; the sermon was blessed to me, in the evening, and at society in college, I had engagedness of mind, and 28 MEMOIRS OF was enabled in some measure to forget the world, and desire to live unto the glory of God alone. " 19th. — My mind was still engaged in religion, though not so much as yesterday. I was perplexed and trou- bled about my business in the college. " 20th. — Was convicted to day of calling on God only, or chiefly, when surrounded with trouble. My soul began to groan to return to its rest, but could do nothing more than groan ; could get no clear views of the evil of sin, of the holiness of God, or of my own need of sal- vation. Felt a grievous loss, and knew it was the pre- sence of the Lord, but could not find my way to him again. NoteG 32 MEMOIRS OF which for popularity, usefulness and real excellence dur- ing- twenty years, it is believed has been surpassed by no classical seminary, on this continent. In the commence- ment ofthis business, Mr. Finley contemplated principal- ly giving agreeable and useful employment to that por- tion of his time which he could spare from more sacred duties and the gratification of a [ew respectable indi- viduals,* at whose request it was undertaken, without embracing in his view the extent to which it was car- ried or the length of time which it was continued. His small company of pupils consisting of about ten, were taught at first for some time, in a part of his own dwelling house. After the room thus occupied be- came too small, a convenient building was erected by the neighbourhood for the accommodation of the grow- ing number of scholars, and after a few years, when the increased collection of students demanded still more room, a capacious and sightly edifice was built, in part, at his own private expense, but principally, by means of liberal contributions, from a number of intelligent, wealthy and public spirited gentlemen, residing in the city of New-York. Several circumstances conduced to the success of this institution. It was put in operation at a time when grammar schools were less numerous in the state of New- Jersey than at present. Mr. Finley admitted a con- siderable number of the youth into his own family, near his person, and under his constant observation. From * The most conspicuous of these gentlemen were Dr. George Logan of German. Town, Pennsylvania, who committed to Mr. Finley at first two sons, afterwards a third, Col. John Bayard of New Brunswick, who placed a grand son under his care: Hon. Henry Southard, Mr. Alexander Kirkpatrick, Mr Lmckly and a few others members of his congregation, who increased the number and impor tance of the school by adding to it, each a son. DR. FINLEV. 3.'J 3Ir. Kennedy's having superintended a similar institu- tion, in the same place, the people had become sensible of the advantages of such an establishment to the neigh- bourhood, and disposed to encourage the seminary, and to facilitate all its operations. The situation was es- teemed healthful, and the terms of accommodation, were made reasonable, in addition to these circumstances, .Mr. Finley's thorough experience and established repu- tation, as a teacher and disciplinarian, strongly attract- ed the public attention and confidence. The impres- sion which he had recently made in Charleston, South Carolina, while teaching there, induced many wealthy and respectable citizens in that region to entrust their children to his able instruction and faithful guardian- ship. From Virginia and Maryland, gentlemen of distinc- tion furnished him with many agreeable and promising students. But in general, during its last years his school was composed of boys from the cities of New-York and Philadelphia, and from his native state. The aggregate of scholars in this institution, was often very great, for years in succession. The number of its pupils original- ly restricted to twenty-five, sometimes exceeded forty. So far did the applications for admission surpass the ca- pacity for accommodation, that the institution might just- ly have been denominated a " select school." Mr. Finley superintended the institution with great fidelity, and personally inspected with vigilance all its ordinary operations from Us first establishmenttill his re- moval* from Basking Ridge. * The labors of his extensive pastoral charge— his disposition for quiet un- interrupted study— his agricultural predilection, and especially the trouMr and anxiety to himself and family, arising from so much attention to the school- — 5 34 MEMOIRS OF It was his practice, for many years, to spend some hours, generally in the morning of every day, in the academy, directing the studies of the youth and as- sisting the tutor in all his labours. Being himself ac- complished as a scholar, energetic in all his move- ments, possessing a peculiar talent to forward boys rapidly in their course of improvement, and his as- sist ints being generally selected with great care, and promptly and assiduously taught to enter into his views •and to follow his example, the plan of education pursued was calculated to make sound classical scholars, and to implant in the pupils' minds, principles and habits of sub- ordination and good morals. On account of the acknowledged pre-eminence of his capacity for government, very untractable and turbu- lent youth were at times committed to his care, for the purpose of reformation as well as of instruction. This frequently afforded an opportunity, and created a neces- sity for the exertion of all his masterly powers. The insidious and artful could not escape his deep, persever- ing and irresistible scrutinies. The most hidden disor- ders and crimes, he would, by some means,* detect and from necessary responsibility to the public for its success — from participating in its daily instructiotv and care: — and from boarding a considerable number of the scholars, made him ardeutly wish at one period, to v, ithdraw from that charge. Accordingly, by his invitation and request the management of the seminary was transferred to VI r. David English, a gentleman of amiable manners and fine scholar- ship, who, for a few years conducted the affai-s of the institution in a very reputa- ble manner. After Mr. English retired fiom tnis laborious occupation and re- turned to Georgetown, where he had before resided, the whole weight of the academic establishment devolved again on Mr. Finley. * In one instance considerable mischief had been committed, at night, in the vicinity of I e village A small house had been stoned, some of its glass broken, and i'.« ii '■■■ bi an! very much frightened No charge was alleged against any particular individual. It was not even perfectly certain, that a student of the acad- DR. F1NLEV. 35 brrrr to light, often to the astonishment of the perpetra- tors. Nudavit, coecumque domfis scelus omne, retoxit. His disposition and manners, towards the studious and amiable, were kind, condescending and affectionate, be- yond expression. He would sometimes enter into free and familiar conversation with them, on various common topics. In his walking excursions over his farm and through the contiguous parts of the congregation, he would invite some one or more of the youth, at leisure seasons, to accompany him. On the way, he sometimes exercised the accompanying pupil, by proposing English sentences to be Latinized, or false Latin to be rectified. This kind of treatment was very useful to the scholar, and it attached him exceedingly to his teacher. But the idle, the insubordinate and the vicious, he treated with rigour, sometimes amounting to real harshness and seve- rity ; according to the good old Persian and classical sys- tem — 0*u/K.«5-/ fte» ye text 7rctTeg£s viols w York and New-Jersey, and consti- tuted a new Presbytery, with the name of the Presbytery of New-York. Tke 40 MEMOIRS OF spective congregations, in succession, by two or more ministers in company. This evangelizing system had been pursued for a number of weeks, and a considerable impression made, through the divine blessing, on a neighbouring congregation, when Mr. Finley, by invi- tation, participated in these labours of love, and was touched with a holy spark from heaven, which soon an- imated and enkindled a great proportion, of the people of his charge. A brief representation of this revival,* wich took place during the year 1803, was sent, by Mr. Finley, to the committee of missions of the general assembly of the Pres- byterian church, in a letter addressed to the Rev. Dr. Ashbel Green, chairman of said committee, and by them published in the general assembly's " Missionary Magazine" vol. 1st, page 553. As the communication here referred to, gives a correct, unadorned and sol- emn account of this important event in the church of Christ, and as this magazine is not generally possessed through the country, it appears highly proper that this authentic and interesting detail should be inserted here at full length. "Extracts from a letter received from the Rev. Robert Finley, at Basking Ridge, New-Jersey, Dec. 23f/, 1804. " When the present year commenced, it found us m a profound sleep, with regard to our everlasting con- remainicg part, situated in the state or New-Jereey, was permitted to retain the records, and to proceed as usual, under the new appellation of the Presbytery of Jersey. * The terra revival is here used according to its ordinary acceptation, to signify an extensive out-pouring of the Divine Spirit, and a powerful awakening among sinners. For some additional remarks on this subject, a sketch of revivals, &c. see noteH. DR. FINLE*. 41 cernSi All was still, nor was there a voice heard. The valley of the son of Ilinnom was full of dry bones. Yet the day of deliverance was at hand, and at this midnight the cry was preparing, " the bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him." The clergy of the Presbytery of New- York, had now for a month or two been engaged in preaching from church to church, after the example of the Lord's disciples, who were sent out two by two. A serious attention to religion had also been excited in one of the adjoining churches. In the month of Febru- ary I was invited by the Rev. Mr. Armstrong, pastor of the church at Mendham, to meet the brethren who were to visit his people about that time. I complied, and saw a large assembly eagerly bent on hearing the word of life. I saw no extraordinary appearances, and in my own soul felt no inward refreshings. I then learnt what I have felt much more sensibly since, " that it is not of him that wiileth, nor of him that runneth," but "that every good and perfect gift cometh down from the Father of Lights." Being invited to unite in the exertions that were making by the clergy, in favour of religion, I gladly accepted, and met for the first time with the brethren, on the first Tuesday of February. The as- sembly to which they preached was neither large nor solemn. But while making an address on the expostu- lation of Jesus, " why stand ye here all the day idle," there was imparted to my soul a sensation and a view, which I hope was worth the world. I knew not what it was, and hardly what it meant. It was a dark night, but it seemed like the beginning of the light of heaven. The returning day brought my heart again to the same subject. I felt like one who had been bewildered, and u-as just awakening to the hope of deliverance from the 6 42 MEMOIRS OF maze. Towards evening my feelings came to a point, and I began to think of the afflicted captives by the streams of Babylon. Their mighty attachment to the beloved city was understood, and its fallen walls were mourned over. The remainder of the week was spent in eager lookings for the Sabbath. When the Sabbath arrived, the day was stormy and tempestuous, so that new discouragements were excited. There had been many fine days and crowded assemblies, when there was no heart to speak, no agonizing desire to awaken and rescue men. And now, when the desire was intense, and the resolution superior to ail fear of man, the peo- ple were kept at home. It was of Him whose councils may not be challenged. Only about twenty persons at- tended the church. Of these about one third were pro- fessors, and of the remainder there was not one Avho was not laid under solemn conviction of sin. It now brings to my remembrance the army of Gideon, which was re- duced before it could gain the victory. The subject of discourse was that day, " the night is far spent, the day is at hand." How literally true did the Lord now make it thus to be with regard to us. A good portion of the few of that day are now in union with the church, and none of them have turned back to folly as yet. O that the gracious Lord would prevent the curse of Chorazin and Bethsaida from coming upon them ! The vibration of the stroke upon these few hearts, was more widely felt than could have been expected. On the evening- following, there were about forty young persons assem- bled, for their improvement in music. Their teacher did not attend ; and under the awe of the preceding day, a few of them desired a discourse. It was given them, from the words, " what is thy request ?" It appeared to be DR. FINLE1T. 4JJ Irom the Lord, that the teacher did not come. Several persons were this evening awakened to a consideration of their ways ; and when they were dismissed, it was de- lightful to observe that they went away with remarkable decorum and solemn silence. It seemed as if every heart had received a portion, the nature of which was yet to be opened up. It was natural and agreeable to duty, to keep these things to myself, and ponder them well, to see if the Lord was in very deed in them. Near- ly the whole who were present on that occasion, are now members of the church. " On Tuesday of this week, the Rev. Messrs. Kollock and Thompson, in their circuit, visited my church for the first time : and they appeared to be sent in the ful- ness of the blessing of the gospel. The people attended generally, and seemed as if they were in expectation that something of an interesting nature would take place. It has since been seen that impressions before made, Avere much deepened, and that various persons were newly awakened from their long sleep. The Lord had now prepared his means for producing a great and sud- den sensibility, on the subjects of the soul and eternity. A few persons from Mendham, who were seriously seeking for eternal life, continued during Tuesday night in this vicinity, and next morning came to converse with the ministers at my house. As they approached, who- ever beheld them, seemed to look upon them as persons that had received a call to prepare to meet their God. I was asked whether I would be willing to meet with a few that evening : being much indisposed, I declined. Notice notwithstanding Avas given of a meeting, and when, contrary to my expectation, I attended, judge of my joy and wonder, when I saw a large assembly ir» 44 MEMOIRS of solemn and weeping silence. Wherever I turned my eyes, 1 observed anxiety and tears. The difficulty of begin. ling an address was only equalled by the difiicul ty of leaving off. A perfect silence was diffused through- out, till we were separating, when two young persons who were particular for their intimacy, met each other from different parts of the house, and seeing their mutu- al situation, fell into each other's arms, with a momen- tary emotion, which was widely felt. It was now evi- dent to all, that there was much room lor hope and pray- er. We therelore appointed to meet on Friday of the next week, at the academy. You may suppose, sir, that the Sabbath was looked for with an ardent desire. It was one of the most stormy days I ever saw. Not- withstanding this, we had a considerable assembly, who resembled Mr. Bunyan's pilgrim, when putting his hands on his ears, he began to run, and cry " Life ! life ! eter- nal life !" In company with brother Richards, I took a preaching tour this week, (second week of February) and left my people until Friday morning. I had a most pleasant tour, though it was the severest weather we had this winter. In my absence, the almost instantane- ous death of one of my most respectable people, greatly increased the number and depth of the convictions. A large assembly collected at his funeral, and the very si- lence that reigned, (for there was no service) seemed to be blessed by God to the furtherance of the work. The evening of the day on which I returned, was our first regular meeting for prayer. The report had by this time spread through the congregation, that there was a serious awakening in the neighbourhood of the church ; so that notwithstanding the darkness of the night and badness of travelling, there was a large assembly. A DR. FINLEV. 45 discourse was preached without any thing remarkable, except a very fixed attention. When the general round of exercises was gone through, it was made known that any who wished might depart, but that a few words would be addressed to those who were supposed to be awakened by the Holy Spirit. No one departed. An address was then made, as above mentioned. When the awakened being summoned " to come out and separate," there was, in the twinkling of an eye, a suppressed cry from, it is supposed, not less than fifty persons. That I may be understood, I mean by a suppressed cry, a cry resembling that which weeping children utter, when they are forbidden to weep aloud. I leave you, my dear friend, to conceive the sensations that must have been awakened, in a case like this, in the bosom of a minister. Absorbed and lost in wonder, joy and praise, we forgot the time, and passed the hour generally pre- scribed by prudence. The first thought of passing time, presented us with the hour of eleven. This is a solitary instance ; and whether under these circumstances, it can be excused or not, I cannot tell. But of this I am cer- tain ; it was a night to be remembered among a thou- sand. It might be counted upon as certain, that in the space of twelve days, from the first Sabbath till now, one hundred persons were brought under deep convic- tions. " On the next Sabbath, each neighbourhood was de- sired to institute societies for prayer ; and four or five of them were attended each week with preaching. " On the third week of February, there Avas nothing re- markable till Friday evening, in a distant part of the congregation, where there Avas Avceping and lamenta- tion Avhich threatened disorder. It was occasioned bv 46 MEMOIRS OF the accidental collection of a number of those most ai- fected into one corner of the house. By advice it was immediately reduced to silence. This was a time of amazement to many hard and wicked persons, and it then seemed as if they would all bow with one accord. But while men slept, an enemy was permitted to sow tares, and for a season the heavenly plant was choked, %n other distant parts of the congregation there did not promise any thing of a harvest for some time. It might have been two months, which brings us to the month of May, before the work appeared in a powerful and gene- ral manner, in the southern part of the congregation. It then appeared to seize on nearly every heart. About this time I saw the only bodily affection (as it is called) that ever came under my observation. It Avas a case of a young woman who might be classed with the Gallios in religion. During the greater part of the discourse, she appeared utterly unconcerned. Towards the close, her countenance changed and fell visibly, and in a mo- ment. She began to pant like one asthmatic, shed for a minute a flood of tears, and when these were stayed, the panting increased, and seemed to approach to suffoca- tion. Her hands were cold and considerably convulsed. Without the least confusion she was removed into anoth- er room, where she was nearly alone, and where she could hear, for she was unwilling to be taken from the house. I have been more particular on this last point, because it is probable some misrepresentations have been made. About midsummer, a similar solemnity be- gan to appear in the western part of the congregation ; and also in that part where it was mentioned the tares were sown, there was a precious and most acceptable reviving. In every quarter had there now been a truly DR. FINLEY. 47 heavenly shower, excepting in the east. There were droppings indeed as from the skirts of a majestic cloud, which lightened on some few of the most darkened and malignant, and a sure hope enlightened and sweetened their souls. " When we were almost in despair of this portion of our dear people, about the month of November we were an- imated with a delightful prospect. On a certain even- ing very dark and rainy, not more than forty persons attended. But so far as information has been obtained, there scarcely was an individual who was not greatly af- fected either with joy or anxiety. Some very hardened persons wept bitterly, and some very young persons were tenderly moved. The renewal of something like this has been very refreshing in the same place since that time, from which we are looking with humble hope for a little harvest. It had often seemed to me almost the sole cause of a minister's grief, that men could not be made to awake. But now, when there were so many ex- cited to a serious consideration, there was an anxiety called up in my mind which had been unknown before. While the immortal soul stood hesitating between life and death, and there was a jeopardy every hour, lest temptation should prevail, or death close all opportuni- ty, you may well suppose they were viewed with an ear- nest eye. Every human excitement was put before the heart ; but experience gave evidence that conversion was no less a work of God than conviction. There were none who were made to taste very speedily of the joy of their Lord. In about five or six weeks however, there were some who began to hope that the Lord had graciously revealed himself to them. But these soon lost their hope, and were plunged more deeply thai 1 48 MEMOIRS OF ever into sorrow, and overwhelmed more than before- with a sense of their sin and helplessness. Those who continued longer before obtaining faith and hope in the mercy of God, appeared more steady from the begin- ning of their joy. Yet the former did, for the most part, recover again and stand more firmly than at first. In the course of four months we received into the commun- ion of the church, with mixed joy and fear, sixty-four persons. Others continued a longer or a shorter period as it pleased Him who is the truth and the life. I was happy beyond expression, when constantly mingling with the people, to find here and there springing up new plants of our heavenly Father's planting. " In the month of October the church again opened her joyful bosom and admitted fifty-six more to its commun- ion. In the manner of conviction there was but little variety. The general grief was sin, and particularly the sin of forgetting God. The Lord brought to their remembrance his own expostulation, " If I be a father, where is mine honour ?," — Grief for this sin seemed to be augmented from finding that by nature their hearts lov- ed idols : they were still inclined to follow them. Thus were they taught, we hope, that conversion was necessary, and that it must come from God. The Lord was very gracious in this, that though the conviction was very sharp with many, yet I have met with no instance that bordered on despair. When the Lord had said, " thou hast destroyed thyself," he seemed to add, " but in me is thy help found." As the manner of conviction bore a strong affinity in nearly all ; so their manner of expres- sing their hopes of acceptance with God, had a very- great uniformity. There were a very few who in the hour of deliverance, felt such a remarkable animation of DR. FINLEY. 49 the pleasing and dutiful dispositions of the heart, that they seemed to rest too much on the change of their feel- ings and less on the great atonement. And there was one and only one instance, of a person whose expe- rience was of the visionary kind. While the greater part were humbled through a sense of their fallen and helpless state, and looked to Him who was lifted up to take away the sins of the world ; it was truly refreshing, and even establishing to the seeking soul, to hear with what clearness some, who had been utterly ignorant of religion, now spoke of Christ, as the wisdom and power of God to everyone that believeth. I have seen no in- stance of raptures, but have seen a great many solid com- forts, which were truly delightful to behold. " I have already given some intimation of the number who were affected with a solemn view of the interests of the soul. It has been mentioned that a hundred and twenty had been added to the communion of the church. About forty others have expressed a belief that they are builded upon the Rock of ages. In addition to tnese a large number were awakened to some serious concern : in all, probably not less than three hundred persons of all ages, sexes and descriptions. We had reason to hope that an aged man after he had lived considerably above eighty years, was received into the divine favour in the last month of his life. And what perhaps may be men- tioned properly in this place, near the close of the work, there were four persons awakened on one Sabbath, each nearly seventy years of age. The seriousness among little children was also very extensive, and though no encouragement whatever was given to do so, it was ad- mirable to hear them telling of the light of the scriptures and of their fear to go to sleep, lest they should lose 7 50 MEMOIRS OF their delightful views of heavenly things. The number of new eonvictions is now but very small; but that of those who heretofore had been roused to consideration and are from time to time led to the waters of hea!ing-, is comfortably great. Blessed be God, as yet M'e have had nothing to lament as to the unbecoming walk of any. We have now a goodly flock, but already it begins to scatter. Nearly a dozen have removed ; one or two have died : so that in a few years we shall stand in the same need as ever of a summer and a harvest. Oh ! if the Lord may look on us and keep us as the apple of his eye, and be ever ready to renew the happy year, which in free and rich grace is now given to us ! — " Thus, sir, I have traced a few of those events which have taken place among us, and if the relation shall be any satisfaction to you, it av ill be a pleasure to one, who is happy to say how respectfully and affectionately he is yours. " ROBERT FINLEY." In this memorable and precious season, the refreshing- influences of the Holy Spirit, were experienced, first in the pastor's own heart. But the set time, to favour this portion of Zion, had come, and the quickening impulse soon became very powerful and very extensive. Through the whole of this gracious dispensation to that church, the pastor manifested a degree of excitement, fervour and joy, which fully corresponded with the most powerful and lively operations of divine grace, dis- played around him. He gave himself wholly up to God, in this great work, as an instrument to increase its effica- cy and to magnify its glory. All the powers of his na- ture were roused to action, and engaged in his Master's and in his peoples' service. He allowed himself time, DK. KINLEF. 51 scarcely sufficient, for necessary refreshment. He visit- ed ; he preached ; he taught ; he warned ; he prayed daily from house to house, with affectionate importunity and flowing tears. He flew, with rapidity, to every quar- ter of his extensive congregation, labouring by day and by night, to awaken the thoughtless and unmoved, out of their perilous and afllicting sleep. In his public dis- courses, he spake with a degree of earnestness and ve- hemence, truly astonishing, almost more than human. His great zeal and corresponding efforts, within his own congregation where the same earnestness abounded, created no emotions but those of sober admiration, deep concern and profound satisfaction. In his occasional ministrations, in neighbouring congregations where the professors of religion remained formal and lukewarm, and where the people in general felt very little interest in these eternal concerns, his zeal appeared to some, im- moderate and his manner extravagant. In their cold and lifeless state they could not enter into his views, nor keep pace with his feelings. Hence some accounted his unusual warmth and extraordinary exertions enthusi- astic. In this, they exposed their own Laodicean tem- per and excited his tender pity. The "view" with whichhe was visited in the commence- ment of this revival, and the renewed impulse, which he now received, from above, in his gospel ministry, produ- ced in him effects the most permanent and happy. They seemed to animate, direct and characterize, all his sub- sequent life, in public and in private. It became mani- fest that the high tone of religious feeling and uncom- mon ardour in exertion, for which Mr. Finley was re- markable, perhaps somewhat singular, especially during this work of grace among his people, did not spring O'Z MEMOIRS OF from a transient excitement of the passions, but were pro- duced, by a clear and lasting discovery of the vast and eternal obligations and interests here involved, accom- panied by a rational and sincere regard for the divine glory, and an ardent desire for the salvation of souls. — This visitation of mercy produced an addition, to the com- munion of the church at Basking Ridge, of one hundred and thirty-two members. The success with which God was pleased, thus early to crown his ministrations, contributed in a great de- gree, to place him in a conspicuous light before the pub- lic and to establish his reputation in the church, as an able, faithful and successful minister of the New Testa- ment. The world judged correctly, that they, whom God so signally honours, in making them the favoured instruments of doing so much good to others, deserve pe- culiar reverence and honour from men. After this season had subsided, and new instances of awakening and conversion become comparatively rare, many precious fruits of the revival continued to be ex- perienced among that people. In the ensuing year, thir- ty souls were added to the church, who for the most part were considered as gleanings of the preceding har- vest. The pastor devoted himself, with great diligence and perseverance, to the interests of his flock. Praying societies, which had been instituted while the excite- ment continued, and conducted without his presence and aid, he now fostered as nurseries of piety, and as the hope of the church. He watched over new profess- ors, and especially the young converts, with parental vigilance and fidelity. The poor, the unfortunate and the afflicted of Christ's family, shared his peculiar sym- pathy and kindness. He took great pains to search out DR. UNLET. OO and become particularly acquainted with those who were in dependent circumsl -posed to difficulties, inconveniently situated for attending on the public wor- ship of God, and surrounded by corrupt and dangerous society. To them he extended the best and speediest re- lief in his power. In several instances he incurred con- siderable expense in procuring, in the condition of such, the changes and ameliorations which he thought neces- sary. About this period, prejudice against using the Bible as a school book, began to manifest itself, and to prevail in some parts of this country.* Many of the ignorant and unprincipled teachers, who were then in numerous instances employed, especially in country places, f enter- tained and propagated this unhappy delusion. J Mr. Finley exerted all his zeal and influence to retain the Bible, and to introduce it to daily use, in all the schools of the surrounding country. Under a deep persuasion, that children and youth cannot become too early and familiarly acquainted with the word of God, he devoted himself to this interesting object, till he saw it completely attained. He paid considerable atten- * See note I. t The teacher employed at that time in the village of Basking Ridge, wa; strongly opposed to in'roducing the BibU. as a school book When Mr. Finley called to recommend the measure, he found him obstinate on the subject, disposed to argue, cavil and resist. After making some centle attempts to induce his compliance, without perceiving a disposition to yield, Mr. Holey addressed him in oubstance as follows: "Sir, my mind is made up on the subject: you know ray wish : I have no objection to you as a teacher on auy other ground -. but if you don't com pi" immediately on this point, prepare your accounts, and collect your money ; for you sha'nt be here a week." That argument had the desired effect at once. J Sec note .1. 54 MEMOIRS OV tion also, to the characters and qualifications of the teachers employed in the schools of his congregation, and endeavoured to impress the minds of the people with a sense of the necessity and importance of exercising prudent care and caution, in engaging instructors for their children. During several succeeding years, the congregation enjoyed no extraordinary effusion of the Holy Spirit, but rather exhibited an interesting state of peace, order and gradual improvement in divine knowledge and grace. Small additions were uniformly made to the church, of such as gave evidence of a gracious change, and entertained a hope of salvation, through faith in Christ. The elders of the church, hand in hand with their pastor, as the records of their transactions evince, exercised the utmost watchfulness and care over the flock, admonishing, exhorting, reproving, with all gen- tleness and long suffering. Considering the great in- crease in the number of professing Christians, that had been recently made, instances of backsliding and apos- tacy were unusually rare in that church. In the year 1806, Mr. Finley was elected a member of the Board of Trustees of the College of New-Jersey. This was considered by the public as a very honourable testimony of his growing respectability and merit. Lib- eral and public spirited in all his views and operations, a friend and patron of science and general improvement, and warmly attached and devoted to the interests of this college, as his alma mater, the fountain. at which he had imbibed the streams of knowledge and of religion; he discharged the duties of this responsible station, with the utmost constancy and faithfulness, till his removal from New-Jersev. DR. FINLEV. Oy In the year of our Lord eighteen hundred and eight, his ministerial labours at Basking Ridge were attended again with more than ordinary effect. The congrega- tion in general were excited to more diligent and seri- ous attention to the preaching of God's word and admin- istration of his ordinances, than had been Aritnessed for several former years. The increase of attention among sinners was so considerable, and the divine influence communicated to Christians so manifest, as to warrant the distinguishing appellation of a revival of religion; and this era ought to be viewed as much more than ordinarily interesting and prosperous, in the annals of that church. For, in the course of this year, about twen- ty persons were added to the communion, on professing their faith in Christ ; and the numerous body of Chris- tians, composing the church, were greatly animated and comforted in the divine life. In the year eighteen hundred and nine, Mr. Finley was selected to preach the missionary sermon during the meeting of the General Assembly, in the city of Phila- delphia. This service he performed with credit to him- self, and satisfaction to the audience. He received the thanks of the Assembly, for the zealous effort he had made to promote the missionary cause. His modesty induced him to decline furnishing a copy of this dis- course for publication, notwithstanding this practice had been observed, with very few deviations, for many pre- ceding years. In the same year he was appointed by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, in connection with the Rev. Messrs. John B. Romeyn and Edward D. Griffin, "to attend the next meeting of the General Association of Connecticut." As a member of this respectable delega- 56 MEMOIRS OP tion, Mr. Finley discharged his duty faithfully and ac- ceptably. His interview with the Eastern brethren whom he met in that association, gave him great satisfaction ; and the travel to Connecticut was greatly serviceable to his health, at that time somewhat impaired. The year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twelve, which was the seventeenth year of Mr. Finley's ministry, presented another very interesting and blessed scene in the congregation at Basking Ridge. It pleased God at this time, to repeat his gracious visit to that peo- ple, and to grant a precious and renewed manifestation of his presence, and exercise of his power and mercy on the hearts of a considerable number, of all ages and characters. The devout and heavenly minded pastor, shared sweetly and copiously the divine influences, shed down at this period, upon that portion of Zion. His soul was enkindled afresh in his Master's service; and his powers were stirred up and engaged, to improve the propitious season which seemed to be opening again upon the people of his charge. Trained by a former dispensation of the King of Zion, to the glorious service of conducting a triumph of grace, among the guilty and rebellious sons of men, and called, as he humbly hoped, at this time, to a similar work, on a more extended scale, he came forward as a good soldier of the Captain of sal- vation, and devoted all his skill, strength and ardour to the cause. But Paul may plant and Apollos water, it is God who giveth the increase. This visit of the Heaven- ly Father, appeared from the result, to have been de- signed, in a considerable degree, for the improvement and consolation of his own dear people, the subjects of his former works of grace. They needed quickening and encouragement in the Christian course, and the DR. FINLEY. bl hearts of many that doubted and feared, were animated and established, in the faith and hope of the gospel : some that were broken and contrite, that languished and fainted, were revived and invigorated ; some that hungered and thirsted, were abundantly satisfied and fill- ed with gladness, in this time of refreshing from the pres- ence of the Lord. While the professing people of God were deeply humbled, excited to fervent supplication, and brought solemnly to search and try their own hearts, and renewedly to accept the Saviour and enter the gos- pel refuge : — many trembling sinners were found, anx- iously "inquiring what they should do to be saved." Meetings, for prayer and pious conversation, were fre- quent and crouded. Many solemn and weeping assem- blies, by day and at night, with fixed attention and death like silence, heard the awakening and cheering messages of truth and mercy, from the lips of their beloved and evangelic pastor. The number, of souls gathered in to Christ at this time, was small,* compared with the fruits of a former revival, and with the desires and hopes en- tertained on this occasion, and considering how exten- sively solemn convictions appeared to prevail through the congregation in the progress of this gracious work. While Mr. Finley was thus labouring ardently and successfully for the promotion of true religion within his own congregational charge, the interests and prosper- ity of the church in general, lay near his heart. His local situation, rendered it more convenient for him, than it was for any other principal member of the pres- bytery of New-Brunswick, to visit that portion of the church, under the care of this presbytery, in the countv * About thirty-five. 8 58 MEMOIRS OF of Sussex, now embraced by the presbytery of New- ton,* in which several important congregations were wholly vacant, and others painfully agitated with dissen- tions and animosities. Animated by zeal, for the gene- ral interests of Zion, and excited by a sincere concern, for the destitute state of this region, in the church, he frequently visited it — sometimes spontaneously — oftener at the invitation of some vacant congregation, or request of some contending parties — most frequently, by the ap- pointment of the presbytery, who were always pleased to avail themselves of his services, especially on impor- tant occasions. His capacity, for managing difficult and critical business, was remarkable and well known. He was an acute discerner of the ends and springs of action, in every character : — he possessed an uncommon share of judgment and prudence : —he was calm and dispas- sionate, in a very high degree : — he was fair, frank and hones*, in his address : — he was firm and immoveable in his adherence to justice and fairness on every subject ; he was meek and submissive, patient and persevering : — and he was a peculiar lover of peace and harmony.f Ad- * The district of the church, here referred to, was set off from the presbytery of New Brunswick, and erected into a distinct presbytery bearing the name of the "Presbytery of NeMon," byanactof the Synod of New-York and New- Jer- sey, at their last meeting in October eighteen hundred and seventeen. f In the course of these visits, Mr. Finley had the misfortune to incur the dis- pleasure of a brother clergyman, of some standing in the church. The offended per- son had manifested his displeasure for some time, very decidedly and openly, so as to attract public notice, when, an opportunity was unexpectedly afforded Mr. Fin- Jey to manifest one of the excellent dispositions of his heart. The presbytery of New Brunswick had just adjourned and were about separating, when some circum- stance drew the clergyman referred to, into a room where Mr. Finley and two or three other persons were fitting Mr. Finley, immediately rese from his seat, addressed the gentleman in a friendly manner, and proceeded calmly to inquire DR. FINLEY. 59 ded to this he had a more accurate, personal knowledge of the churches there, than any other man, of his stand- ing, in the presbytery. Hence he was selected in many instances, as the most suitable character, to go to that region of the church, to supply vacant congregations, to administer the ordinances of the gospel and to heal di- visions among them. He promptly complied, in every instance, when his circumstances and engagements at home, would at all permit. Nay he acted on the prin- ciple, that personal and domestic sacrifices must be made, for the sake of discharging faithfully public duty. He cheerfully rendered his services and ardently exert- ed all his influence, to accomplish the purposes for which he was sent, in these successive tours. He had consid- erable influence and agency in organizing and bringing into the Presbyterian connection, several important and growing congregations. And on the whole, he per- formed, many arduous and successful services for the churches in Sussex, the benefits, of which, will long be felt and remembered, by those congregations. into the cause of the coolness and neglect, which he had for some time manifested towards him. The gentleman making no reply, and showing a disposition to with- draw, Mr Finley pressed him still farther in the following words : — " Sir, I am a friend of peace. I feel that there is a peculiar impropriety in our living iu this manner— it must not be so. If I have injured you, tell me wherein, and I will make you any acknowledgment o- reparation in my power this moment, and take pleasure in doing it " The gentleman hesitated, appeared sour and unyield- ing — M r . Finley proceeded — "well, sir, I can do no more than this"— laying his hand upon his naked breast—" I solemnly declare that 1 am unconscious of hav- ing ever designedly or inadvertently done you an injury : but if you will only be reconciled and give me your hand in friendship, I will get down upon my knees and a«k your pardon." The gentleman made no reply, turned about, and left the room. Mr. Finley gome time after observed, that subsequently to the above oc- currence, he had frequently attempted to court and conciliate this gentleman, but that all hij advances and efforts had met with a similar repulse. 60 MEMOIRS OF While Mr.Finley was so unremittingly engaged, in en- deavouring to promote religion, in his own charge, and so zealously devoted to the interests of some portions of the church, which lay within the reach of his own per- sonal ministrations, he was also deeply occupied, in de- vising and maturing schemes of the most extensive im- portance and utility. One ecclesiastical measure in which, he had a principal agency, is too important not to be particularly noticed, in these memoirs. I mean, the system for instructing youth, in the knowledge of the Bible, by classes. The plan originated* in the presby- * Justice requires it to be distinctly stated that the idea of making this meth- od of instructing youth general through ' he church, and of taking presbyterial or- der on the subject, was first suggested by the Rev. George S. Woodhull, of Cran- bury, New-Jersey A few individual pastors, iu the Presbyterian church, it has been ascertained on inquiry, had previously, made some attempts, in their respective congregations, to introduce this mode of instruction, but, it is believed, without any view to its becoming an established system in the Presbyterian church. This happy thought first occurred to Mr. Woodhull, and as soon as sug- gested, was seized with avidity by Mr. Finley These gentlemen, par nobile fratrum, acted in concert, as far as was practicable, in the whole of this business. The following extract, from the minutes of the meeting of presbytery, October 1815, which wasp- inted, distributed through the churches, and laid before Synod, to be the basis, of their proceedings on the subject, was reported to presbytery, by these gentlemen jointly, as a committee, but was written by the last named gentleman : — " The committee who were appointed fully to consider and report on the resolu- tion passed by the presbytery, recommending to the ministers with pastoral char- ges, to form classes of young people in their congregations, for studying and re- citing on the Bible, brought in the lollowing report, which was read and adopted, viz: " The present is an age iu which great exertions are making for the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom, in the world Although for more than twenty years the civilized world has been shaken to its centre, by long continued and sanguina- ry wars, yet the people of God in Europe and America, have not ceased to send missionaries to the heathen, and the word of life to the destitute and poor. No plan, however, as your committee be'ieve has yet been formed by any ecclesiasti- cal body, for the express purpose of instructing the young in the history, the doc- trines, and practical truths of the Bible. Such a plan, if carried into complete and DR. FINLE1'. 61 tery of New-Brunswick, at the semi-annual meeting, in October, 1815. general execution, we believe would, with the blessing of God, be attended with the happiest effeet3. The young people would have their attention directed to the most important (ruths ; it would lead the way, by easy stages, to almost daily conversations on religious subjects : it would furnish the minds of the young with such a fund of knowledge as might prevent their becoming victims of enthusiasm and error. It would be advantageous to ministers themselves.: it would excite their zeal, and the zeal of their people, and with the blessing of God and the aids of his spirit, may be instrumental, in conjunction with other means, of hastening thf time .'.In u the knowledge of God and his word shall cover the earth, as the waters do the sea. " With regard to the details of the plan ofinstruction, yourcoinmittceareof opin- in general, each minister of a congregation, must be guided by circum- stances, and by his own judgment. Your committee, however, propose the fol- lowing : — " I. Wherever a class sufficiently numerous in any part of the congregation is formed, at the first meeti: g, the minister shall deliver a lecture on five chapters, or such other portion of the Bible as he may think proper from the Old or New- Testament at his discretion, holding up to view the principal truths contained in, those chapters, and explaining the difficult passages they may contain. At the next meeting the cla>~ shall be examined on these chapters and another lecture then given on other chapters of the Bible — this to be continued weekly or as of- ten as may be convenient, and to be accompanied with prayer and singing. " 2. If it should be practicable to carry into effect the above plan, the minister may deliver lectures on the Bible, on the Sabbath day, and examine the young people upon them, as often as he may think proper. " Your committee offer the following resolutions — " Resolved, That this report be signed by the Moderator and Clerk, and that fifty copies thereof be printed, and one copy sent to every congregation un- der the care of the presbytery. And that the stated Clerk forward one copy to the committee of overtures of the Synod of New York acid New-Jersey at their next meeting, with a view of bringing this subject before that body, that they may jiike such order thereon as they may see proper. " Resolved, That— [This blank was afterwards filled by the presbytery with the names of Messrs Finley and Woodhull]— be a committee to superintend the printing .Mid distribution of this report. 1 ' Although the church and public are indebted in a great degree to the first sug. gestcr of this scheme for its past and promising usefulness, Mr Finley is to be considered as having been highly instrumental, in maturing the system, seeming its adoption and carrying it into practical effect. 62 MEMOIRS OF In the Synod of New-York and New-Jersey, October 1815, Mr. Finley appeared, in conjunction with his amia- ble and excellent associate in this business, to recom- mend and support their favourite plan. The outline presented in the preceding extract from the minutes of the presbytery of New-Brunswick was favourably re- ceived by the Synod. A resolution was passed approv- ing the plan, accepting the report of the committee on the subject,* and directing it to be laid before the next * The following extract from the minutes of Synod, will present a view of their proceedings in relation to this business, viz: — "The committee of overtures reported that they had ovcrtured a plan for in- structing the youth by forming classes in the several congregations for studying and recitinpr the Bible. " A committee is appointed to consider and report fyc. " The committee to whom was referred the overture on forming classes of young people for studying and reciting the Bible, made the following report which was adopted, viz : " This is a subject, which in the opinion of your committee, claims an early and careful attention, of the Synod. While the whole Christian world concurs in presenting to the destitute and uniustructed, the Bible without note or comment, as containing the pure and complete word of life, let us not fail to present it, dis- tinctly under the same correct and important character, to otir own children and youth, and induce them by every engaging means to study it as such, lest the com- monness of the Bible among us, connected with any apparent neglect of it, or preference of other sources of instruction, should have influence, to diminish iheir respect for the sacred volume. To awaken the spirit of inquiry, and engage the attention of the understanding in perusing the scriptures, is an object of the first importance in the religions education of youth. To prevent or correct habits of careless reading, is essential to their progress in knowledge. And to present dis- tinctly to their view, the Bible as the pure and complete fountain of religious knowledge, is indispensable in a faithful care of their education. Your commit- tee therefore beg leave to suggest the propriety of earnestly recommending to the ministers and sessions under the care of this Synod, to pay special attention to this subject, and provide without delay, for the staled instruction of their chil- dren and youth, in distinct portions of the sacred scriptures, in the way cf partic- ular study and recitation, upon such plan, and under such arrangements, as each minister and session may think expedient :— always taking care, however, that this shall not come in the place of learning the catechisms of our church, witfe the DR. FINLBT. t).'> General Assembly, with a view that the proposed sys- tem might be approved and adopted for general use, through the Presbyterian Church. At the meeting of the General Assembly, in May, 1816, this important subject was introduced to the atten- tion of that venerable body, through the stated clerk* of the Synod of New- York and New-Jersey, who, by the instructions of Synod, laid before the committee of overtures, an attested copy of their proceedings, relative to this interesting matter. At that meeting of the General Assembly, Mr. Finley appeared, to explain and advocate this overtured meas- ure, and to render it, if practicable, a grand characteris- tic feature of our ecclesiastical system, by obtaining for it the approbation and adoption of the supreme judicato- ry in the Presbyterian Church. His highest hopes were realized. The proposed measure speedily obtained the sanction of universal suffrage in the General Assembly, and was recommendedf to all the Presbyteries and Con- scripture proofs annexed, but be added to it, and make a leading feature in the course of religious education Resolved, that an attested copy of the above re- port be transmitted by the stated clerk, to the committee of overtures of the next General Assembly." * The Rev. John M'Dowell, D. D. pastor of the Presbyterian congregation at Elizabeth-Town, who, in addition to the other numerous and important services rendered to the interests of religion, for many years served the Synod in that office, with distinguished ability and universal approbation. f The decision of the General Assembly on this subject, contained in their printed extracts for the year I81f>, is in the following words : " The committee to which was referred the overture from the Synod of New- York and New-Jersey, on formiug classes ol young people, for studying and reci- ting the Bible, reported : and their report, being read and amended, was adopted, and i9 as follows : viz : — •' That they consider this subject of great importance, and deserving the atten tion and earnest recommendation of the Assembly : therefore, 64 MEMOIRS OF gregations of the Presbyterian Church, to be adopted and observed. " Resolved, 1st, That it be recommended earnestly, to the ministers and ses- sions which are in connection with the General Assembly, to pay a special atten- tion to this subject, and provide without delay, for the stated instruction of the children and youth in the sacred scriptures, within their respective congregations. "2d. That although the particular manner of instruction and recitation in the congregations, ought to be left to the discretion of their ministers and sessions respectively, yet as some degree of uniformity is desirable, in a business of so much magnitude, it is recommended, as the most effectual means of promoting the knowledge of the holy scriptures, that, in all our churches, classes be formed of the youth, to recite the scriptures in regular order ; that the recitations, if con- venient, be as often as once a week, and from two to five chapters appointed for each recitation; that the youth may be examined on • " 1st. The history of the world, but more especially of the Church of God, and of the heathen nations who were God's agents in accomplishing his purposes to- wards his church. "2d. Persons noted for their piety or ungodliness, and the effects cf their ex- ample in promoting or injuring the best interests of mankind. "3d. Doctrines and precepts, or ' what man is to believe concerning God, and what duly God requires of man.' " 4th. Positive ordinances, or the direction which God has given, as to the way in which he is to be worshipped acceptably. "5th. The particular features of character of which the Spirit of God has given notice, both in wicked and good persons ; in the last, particularly regarding those who were types of Christ, and in what the typical resemblance consisted. "6th. The gradual increase from time to time, of information concerning the doctrines contained in the scriptures; noting the admirable adaptation of every new revelation of doctrine, to the increased maturity of the church. The nature of God's law ; its immutability, as constituting an everlasting rule of right and wrong ; the full and perfect illustration of its precepts, given by Christ. "7th. The change which God has made from time to time in positive ordinan- ces, together with the reasons of that change. The difference between the moral law, and those laws which are positive. "8th. The illustration of the divine perfections, in the history, biography, doctrines and precepts, together with the positive ordinances of the scriptures. " 9th. The practical lessons to regulate our conduct in the various relations of life. "On all these particulars, the meaning of the words used in scripture must be ascertained, that thus we may understand what we read. "Resolved, 3d, That the Presbyteries under the care of the Assembly, be di. rected to take order on this subject; and they are hereby informed, that this is not to come in the place of learning the Catechisms of our church, but be added to it, as an important branch of religious education.'' t)R. FINLfiY. 65 Mr. Finley was so fully persuaded of the importance and excellence* of such a system of pious instruction, and so fully determined to try its practical utility, what- ever should be the result of the contemplated applica- tions to the judicatories of the church, that immediately after he had digested the plan in his own mind, he com- menced a course of biblical instruction, among the youth of his own congregation. This first effort was made, at Basking Ridge, in the spring of 1815, and about two months preceding the meeting of the Presbytery of New-Brunswick, at which the overture to the Synod was prepared. Mr. Finley had the unspeakable satis- faction to see the Lord smiling upon his favourite plan of instruction, and the divine benediction descending upon its incipient operations, in a very remarkable man- ner. The prospects of this congregation, as to spiritual in- crease and comfort, were now again greatly brightened, by an extraordinary communication from the Father of lights and mercies. It pleased the King of Zion to bow his heavens, come down, and renew his operations there, in a very special and effectual manner. The youth, residing principally about the village, who had been formed into a class for the purpose of prosecuting the Bible study, and who had, for some months previous, given careful and diligent attention to the course of instruction prescribed, were the first that felt this heavenly impulse.- And the circumstances of the case were such, as to produce a full belief, that the Bible study, so recently introduced, had been very ex- * See note K, at the close. 9 66 MEMOIRS OF tensively, if not exclusively instrumental,* in producing this unexpected and most animating excitement. The evidences of this gracious work, were first exhibited in a prayer meeting, which had been instituted some time previous, and observed on Sabbath mornings, before the hour of divine service. This society, after having ap- peared to diminish in number, and to decline in zeal, was observed to increase suddenly, so much, that a lar- ger room than that usually occupied became necessary. It was at one of these Sabbath morning meetings, that the presence and power of the Lord were very clearly manifested. Nearly the whole school, a large number of young persons belonging to the vicinity, and a pro- miscuous assemblage, of all ages and circumstances, were present. The Spirit of the Lord descended upon them, as a refreshing mighty wind, and filled the house with his presence. A considerable number of those present, who had been till then careless, were filled with deep convictions of sin, and concern for salvation. A solemn impression was made on many minds, and a seriousness very unusual was spread over the whole as- sembly. During this interesting scene, Mr. Finley was absent from home, and without the least thought of what was taking place there. On his return, after a short ab- sence, and receiving information of what had occurred, * In a report, by Dr. Green, President of the College of New-Jer=ey, on the subject of the revival of religion which took place iu that institution, 1815, the study of the holy scriptures is assigned, a* one of its chief " instrumental causes." See this report, &c. published by B B. Hopkins, Philadelphia, 13i5. To the same instrumental cause, in a very great de,e, are to be attributed, several powerful and txtensive awakening?, recently experienced in ihe Presbvterian church, in the state of New-Jersey, in he state of New -York, and ;n other dis- tricts of iur country, where the system proposed by the General Assembly has been introduced. DR. KINLEY. 67 mingled emotions of wonder, joy and praise, almost overwhelmed his spirit. His first interview with some trembling-, anxious youth, belonging to his school, who came to him for direction and relief, was extremely af- fecting. His tender sensibilities were so much excited, that he was at first unable to speak. The spirit of this man of God became now again deep- ly stirred within him, and he was enabled to make an- other great and effectual effort for the promotion of the Redeemer's kingdom, among that people. A season of deep conviction and anxious inquiry, among sinners, now ensued. This work of grace pro- gressed, in a silent and hidden manner. It spread grad- ually, and almost imperceptibly, in every direction, from the region of the church, where it commenced, to the extremities of the congregation. The impressions, which were most powerful and alarming, seemed to pro- duce, in general, no audible out-cry, nor any very strik- ing and visible emotions; but multitudes of careless sin- ners were filled with solemn concern, and the people of God were deeply affected and moved, by the quick- ening influences sent down from on high. While the awakening was extending, with a steady and uniform pace, in every direction Mr. Finley endeavoured to lead its way and to aid its progress, by abundant and unweari- ed labours. He preached from house to house, in season and out of season, with a vehemence, a frequency and a perseverance, truly astonishing, almost incredible. His discourses were usually long, powerful and alarming. His voice, his words and his manner, sometimes, like light- ning, seemed to strike the guilty to the floor : sometimes his public addresses were of the most tender, pathetic and melting kind. In the course of this out-pouring of 08 MEMOIRS OF the Divine Spirit, he preached in a few instances lout- times a day; not unfrequently nine times a week; and for months together, on an average, once in twenty-four hours. His whole heart and spirit seemed to be concen- trated and absorbed in this great business. He appeared verily to lose sight of himself, of his academic engage- ments, of his domestic concerns, of his personal ease, and of every interest, but the everlasting interests of perishing sinners, and the glory of God. He visited from family to family, with the familiarity and affection of a friend and father. He advised, instructed and en- treated the thoughtless and secure in sin, with prayers to God and many tears, to seek the Saviour. He perform- ed these duties, with an importunity and solemnity of mind, fully convincing every beholder, that he felt his awful responsibility; watching for souls, and treating with sinners, on the subject of their eternal welfare, as an ambassador of the great God. The following interesting letter, from a young gen- tleman, residing at Basking Ridge during this revival, to a respectable lady, who had requested information on this subject, is introduced, and will be read with pleasure : "Basking Ridge, 30th Sept. 1815. " Respected Madam, "I now comply with your request, made through Mr. G. You may justly accuse me of negligence, in omitting thus long to write. When I saw Mr. G. the work was in its first stages, and I thought proper to delay a few weeks, that I might be enabled to give you a more satisfactory statement. " The blessed work of the out-pouring of the Spirit of God, which has at length spread through different parts DR. FINLE*. G9 of this congregation, first commenced in our academy. In the latter part of the month of June, Mr. Finley preached a sermon addressed particularly to the youth. Although perhaps a more than ordinary attention was observable on that day, yet two weeks elapsed before it was known that any were seriously awakened; when it ■was discovered that two young men of our school were deeply impressed with a sense of divine things. Impressions on the hearts of others, as was afterwards discovered, were gradually increasing, who did not for several days subsequent to this, manifest it ; until one of the young men, who had been disposed to speak lightly o f the work, and scoff at the idea that his school- fellows were becoming religious, was, while at his lodgings, suddenly arrested with an awful apprehen- sion of the danger of his state, while out of Christ. This had considerable effect with those who had taken part with him in his folly. Thus the number of the subjects of the work was increasing, until it became so powerful, that we were induced to hope for a time, that almost the whole school was pressing into the kingdom of our Sa- viour. The greater part of the school, which consists of about forty-five, were in a greater or less degree awakened. What a blessed prospect was then before us ! How pleasing to see children of tender age, laying aside their childish sports, and to hear them inquiring for their Saviour! Compassionate Redeemer! thou canst out of the mouth of babes and sucklings, perfect praise ! "We lament that impressions have worn off with ma- ny. But blessed be the name of the Most High, that about nine of their number have obtained a comfortable hope, that they have been made the subjects of regene- 70 TilEMOIKS OF rating grace. We have strong confidence to hope in God, that the seed sown in the hearts of many others, will yet spring up, and hear the fruit of eternal life. Oh ! Divine Spirit, perfect thy work in the hearts of those where thou hast commenced it; begin where it is not yet begun ; and bring them all into the fold of Christ. " This blessed work, which for some time was confin- ed to the academy, has at length spread into various parts of the congregation. It is still, we hope, gradual- ly extending. About thirty persons, including those of the school, have hopefully been converted to the Sa- viour. Nearly seventy others are supposed to be in a greater or less degree awakened. Mr. Finley labours with unwearied diligence. We have praying societies every evening in the week, many of which Mr. Finley attends. This week, besides the regular services of the Sabbath, he has preached seven times. Last evening we had a very interesting meeting. God, by his Spirit, appeared to be sensibly near. " What cause of rejoicing, to the friends of the Re- deemer's kingdom in this place, for this gracious visita- tion from the presence of the Lord. This is a highly favoured people. Madam, unite your prayers with ours, for the still greater effusions of the spirit of grace. Yea, blessed Saviour, ride forth in the majesty of thy gospel, and let this be a rich harvest of the precious fruits of eternal life, a glorious in-gathering of precious souls to thyself!" During this season of revival, which continued about eight months, Mr. Finley formed and executed a reso- lution, to visit personally, as a minister of the gospel, not only all the households belonging strictly to his ex- DR. FINLKY. 7\ tensive charge, but the great number of families, living in the mountainous and barren out-skirts of his congre- gation, more particularly on the northwest and south- west borders. This brought upon him, in a cold and inclement season, a great increase of labour and hard- ship, which he endured cheerful ly. To the prosecution of this enterprise of benevolence, he devoted those sea- sons which he could redeem from the pressure of servi- ces and cares nearer home. Thus he endeavoured to hunt out the poor and ignorant in their retired dwelling places, to rouse them to a sense of sin and danger, and to convey to their houses and hearts, the glad tidings of pardon and salvation, through the blood of Christ. On these tours of compassion, he spent in the whole, at different times, about two months, during the "winter of 1815-16. Sometimes he set out on foot, and travelled onward for three or four days, instructing* and praying in the families that successively fell in his way. Wher- ever he could assemble a sufficient number, even a small * In one of Mr. Finley's visits to a remote part of his congregation, he called at a habitation, where the head of the family was absent. He soon entered into conversa ion with the mis'ress of the house, whom he found at home. She ap- peared to be highly pleased with having an opportunity of conversing on religious subjects, and with much apparent warm'h and zeal, expressed the most sincere love to God, and the greatest desire to be devoted to him. After the conversa- tion ended, Mr. Finley called to him one of her childreD, who was in the house, and asked him some of those questions which are generally very familiar to chil- dren who have been religiously educated, such as, who made you p of what were you made ? who is the Redeemer of men p He found that the child was un- able to auswerany question of this kind, and had received no instruction from his parents in the first piinciples of religion. He then turned to the woman, and in a tone of indignation, addressed her : " Woman, is this your love to God? How is it possible that you love God, when you neglect to teach your children any thing about him?" &c. fir- continued his observations, until she became ninth affected, and to appearance deeply impressed. 72 MEMOIRS Ot group, he spent some time in preaching and talking to them on the momentous concerns of eternity.* In the course of these missionary excursions, he found more than fifty families, totally destitute of the sacred scriptures. Some of these families, he supplied imme- diately, from the small stock of Bibles, Testaments and Tracts he usually took with him on these journeys, and to the others, he took measures as soon as possible, to furnish the word of life.f These labours of love, which he accomplished with no inconsiderable exposure and fatigue, afforded his own heart much satisfaction, and he had reason to believe, were productive of extensive benefit to many individuals and families. While his expanded benevolence and zeal embraced the poor and miserable in the extreme limits, and even beyond the confines of his immediate charge, he was in- flamed with most warm desires, and employed, as far as * It was often difficult to provide agreeable accommodation" for the people that attended, and the business of preparing seats, in some instances, fell principally upon himself Once in particular, rather than expose the audience *o the incon- venience and 'atigue of standing to receive his instructions, after the people be- gan to assemble, he took down the loose boards which composed the second floor of the house, and made seats of them on chairs and benches, with his own hands, for the accommodation of the assembling multitude. f Mr. Finley was in the practice of giving Bibles, occasionally at his own ex- pense, to the poor, whom he discovered to be destitute, before the Bible Socie- ties of this state commenced their operations. A pastor of a congreeation. con- tiguous to that of Basking Ridge, on visiting some families, in low circum- stances, living near the limits of these respective congregations, offered a poor German a Bible, supposing him to have none; to which the German replied, " You and Finley mnkes me one very good man, or gives me one very hot ficl! : for Finley gives me a Bible many years ago." DR. FINLEY. To possible, the most vigorous efforts,* to carry on the work of grace, which continued in some measure to progress, in the interior of his congregation, till the ensuing spring. Of the impressions, which had been experien- ced, those among the youth, were found in general, to \ * Mr. Finley's exertions were necessarily moderated towards spring, on nr count of the exhausted and reduced state of his health. The following extract from a letter to a very respectable friend in the city of New- York, received since writing the above, will support and illustrate this remark and other parts of the preceding statement : — "Basking Ridge, February 14, 1316. " Dear Sir, " Our past intercourse which I found oftentimes so satisfactory, often occurs to my remembrance, and excites a wish that circumstances could admit me to keep up the same intercourse we once enjoyed. But so it is, that the business of each day and its cares are sufficient and often more than sufficient for itself, and though the spirit is willing, it seems impossible to do what would be desirable to my old friends. " It was a matter of regret that when A was here, he gave me so little ot his company. Oh ! could we but love our Saviour as we ought, we should soon have our place, where no distance would ever separate us from our friends. " The revival of religion in this place languishes and declines, owing in the way of means to my being unable to pursue the work with much vigour. The great fatigues through which 1 went during the summer and fall, in the end affected my nervous system greatly and weakened my strength, in the nay. Still I preach about three times a week, besides the Sabbath, and my number of hearers is great. New awakenings have not lately occurred, but some of those who have been long awakened, are from time to time brought into the city of refuge. The Lord grant me a little more strength of body and mind to go on and try to serve Him, the remnant of an unprofitable life. In my late attempts to serve God, it ap- pears to me there has been less of self than on some former occasions. The little acquaintance I have had with revivals of religion, and the great experience I have had of spiritual pride, induced me to make the observations, which you noti. ced last fall in the Synod, relative to passing public enco?nhims on the female pray- ing societies. Concerning the societies, I never had but one opinion, and that was in their favour :— but one desire, the Lord increase their number and their spirit of prayer. " We all send our love to Mrs. , my daughters remember jours affection- ately, and with great respect and esteem, " I am, Dear Sir, Yours, "ROBERT FINLEY." 10 74 MEMOIRS OF be most deep and permanent. And the individuals, who received comfort from God, in their spiritual concerns, and in due season, obtained admission to the communion of his church, as the fruits of this mercjful visitation, amounting- in the whole to about fifty-five, were chiefly in the morning of life. Of these, a considerable number were students in the academy. Some, who at first made light of this sacred work, became subjects of di- vine influence, and very early gave evidence of a gra- cious change. So general and so strong were the spir- itual impulse and fervor, in this institution, that a prayer meeting was established and observed regularly with great seriousness, among the members of the school themselves. Several young men of good talents, be- came hopefully pious, during this day of divine power, and are contemplating the ministry of the gospel, as the end of their studies and the desire of their hearts. In the spring of eighteen hundred and sixteen, the congregation returned to its ordinary state, which af- forded to Mr. Finley, a season of comparative repose, very imperiously called for, by the impaired state of his health. The ordinary labours he prescribed for himself, and faithfully discharged without intermission, having been very extensive, and the seasons of excitement and revival, in which he made inconceivable exertion, hav- ing been quite numerous — it was to be expected not- withstanding the uncommon strength and vitality of his frame, that the vigour of his constitution and animation of his spirit, would feel the effect. At several periods, pre- vious to his last great effort, in the service of God, the stability of his health, appeared to be considerably sha- ken ; so that relaxation from labour and invigoration by travelling, became necessary : but his parochial and DR. PINLE1 • ' ■> domestic tics would not permit him to make excursions, so extensive and efficacious, as the condition of his nerves demanded. The joy he experienced at this period at seeing the church open her bosom to receive, to a participation in her privileges and hopes, more than fifty returning prod- igals, who presented themselves together in the aisle to devote themselves to the Lord, did not repair the rava- ges of intense exertion, severe exposures, sleepless nights, and incessant anxieties, encountered through tin 1 preceding winter. Probably, at this period the font ' . tion of that disease was laid, which prematurely termi- nated his course of usefulness and honour in the church below. His nervous system presented evidences of great debility and disorder. Still he gave nature very little opportunity to recover her wasted energy, either by a suspension of labour or by a resort to efficient re- storatives. He generally increased his exertions when at home, to compensate for his short occasional absences, for the benefit of his health. In this manner he passed away the summer of IS] 6, and on the return of cool and bracing weather, his constitution appeared to be much invigorated, and his health, on the whole improved. About this period Mr. Finley began to disclose with freedom, to his friends and to the public, the outlines of the noble and benevolent scheme, in behalf of the free people of colour in the United States, which his capa- cious and philanthropic mind had been for some years meditating and maturing and which he prosecuted with his characteristic zeal and perseverance until principally through his instrumentality, the Colonization Society al Washington was formed, December 28, 181& 7if> MEMOIRS OF The day, which gave birth to this institution commen- ces a new era in the history of the abolition of African bondage and vice, degradation and misery, in the Amer- can Republic. It opens a widely extended field for noble ambition and enterprise in the march of American benevolence.* The man, that conceived this benefi- cent plan, or in any considerable degree excited the im- pulse and directed the movements, which resulted in the formation of the society above referred to, let the sys- tem prosper or perish, deserves to be placed with Clark- son and Wilbcrforce among the distinguished lovers and benefactors of mankind. Finley, in the hands of God, is believed to have been that man. The unhappy circumstances of the free people of col- our, in our country, early attracted his attention and deeply impressed his mind. Their lamentable condi- tion and their gloomy prospects presented themselves to his view, and took a strong hold of his humane sensibil- ities. There exists satisfactory evidence, that his mind had been occupied a considerable time, in endeavour- ing to devise some plan that would afford relief to these unfortunate, oppressed, and miserable exiles, before he gave publicity to his views of the subject. In the year 1814, he addressed a letter to a very particular friend in Philadelphia, a man of intelligence, distinction and pie- ty, unbosoming to him his thoughts on this subject, man- ifesting his own full persuasion of its high importance, and soliciting his friend's opinion and influence, in rela- tion to it. The following extract, of a letter addressed, to John F\ Mumford, Esq. of the city of New-York, by his friend * See Note L. DR. FINLE1. 11 Mr. Finley, exhibits some of his early views and opera- tions, in regard to this matter : — " Basking Ridge, February 14, 101(3. "Mr. John P. Mumford, "Dear Sir, — The longer I live to see the wretch- edness of men, the more I admire the virtue of these, who devise and with patient sacrifice labour to execute plans for the relief of the wretched. On this subject the state of the /m? blacks has very much occupied my mind. Their number increases greatly, and their wretchedness too as appears to me. Every ihing con- nected with their condition, including their colour, is against them ; nor is there much prospect that their state can ever be greatly ameliorated, while they shall continue among us. Could not the rich and benevolent devise means to form a colony on some part of Africa, similar to the one at Sierra Leone, which might gradual- ly induce many free blacks to go and settle, devising for them the means of getting there, and of protection and support, till they were established? Ought not Congress to be petitioned to grant them a district in a good cli- mate, say on the shores of the Pacific Ocean ? — Our fa- thers brought them here, and we are bound if possible to repair the injuries inflicted by our fathers. Could they be sent back to Africa, a three-fold benefit would arise. We should be cleared of them : — we should send to Af- rica a population partially civilized and christianized for its benefit: — our blacks themselves would be put in a better situation. Think much on this subject — then please write to me when you have leisure. " I am, Dear Sir, Yours, « ROBERT FINLEY." i 8 MEMOIRS OF When the ensuing spring opened he became more ex- tensively interested in this subject, more free in commu- nicating his views of it, and more active in endeavour- ing, by conversation and correspondence, to engage in its favour, persons of talents, wealth and piety, in church and state. Through the following summer, in general, and especially, in his occasional excursions from home, and interviews with his brethren in the ministry, this subject appeared to be uniformly uppermost in his thoughts, and was the chief topic of his conversation. In his applications to individuals for advice and assist- ance, he met with very little direct opposition. The gentlemen with whom he had intercourse, in relation to this object, in general approved the plan so far as it was then understood — but, at the same time, a general im- pression prevailed, that the whole scheme, though be- nevolent and noble, was visionary and impracticable. The subject in general which he had deeply considered, and the opinions of his friends whom he had consulted, furnished so much encouragement, that he resolved to make a great effort to carry his benevolent views into effect. An important question was then to be decided : in what place and in what manner would it be best to commence active operations in pursuing the proposed object ? In contemplating this preliminary inquiry and in making additional preparatory arrangements, he spent a considerable part of the fall of 1816. Towards the close of November, he became determined to test the popularity and in some measure the practicability of the whole system, by introducing the subject to public no- tice, at the city of Washington. The contemplated plan appeared to him to be so vast in its nature and so difficult of attainment — the interest involved in it so nu- DR. FINLEV. 79 nierous, extensive and complicated, that he was persua- ded it could be carried into effect only by being made an object of national patronage. After endeavouring some time to obtain for it, friend? and advocates in his native state, and in the cities of New-York and Philadelphia, he resolved to bring the subject forward in the metropolis of the nation, there to communicate his own views, to learn the sentiments and as far as might be, direct the opinions of others, and if practicable procure a deliberate, intelligent and sol- emn decision in its favour, inageneral meeting of the citi- zens of that place, of the members of Congress and of the enlightened individuals convened there from every part of our country. His mind was intensely devoted to this object, and filled with anxious desires for the fa- vourable result of this great experiment. He felt that he was about to agitate a delicate, interesting and im- portant subject : and as to bold and decisive exertions in its support he viewed himself, at this moment as al- most alone. Had he been acquainted with Mr. Jefferson's letter on this subject, written to a friend by request in 1811, but never made public till 1818, the sentiments of that distinguished citizen would have afforded him much encouragement. Had he possessed a knowledge of the transactions, in relation to the free blacks of Virginia, which had taken place, previously in the Legislature of that Commonwealth — this might reasonably have led him to expect aid from that quarter, and would have in- spired him with increased confidence in his contempla- ted measures. But of the former he could have receiv- ed no intimation; and if he possessed any information of the latter, it must have been very imperfcrt. He 80 MEMOIRS OF considered himself, and was considered by his friends as devising a plan hitherto unthought of. Under these circumstances and with these views, Mr. Finley set off for Washington towards the close of No- vember, 1816. The following communications from highly respectable gentlemen residing in the District of Columbia will give a comprehensive, judicious and can- did view of Mr. Finley's transactions, during his visit at the Scat of Government : — " Washington, July Uh, 1818. " Dear Sir, "I owe you an apology for my long silence on a subject interesting to me as well as yourself. " I have been continually under an intention of wri- ting, but have been prevented from time to time, and am now unable to do more than to glance at a few cir- cumstances. "Mr. Finley arrived in Washington about the 1st of December, 1816. His journey was partly for the bene- fit of his health, and partly with the intent of visiting Georgia. But one leading design, and one that seemed to be most interesting to him, was the forwarding of the colonization plan. Shortly after he arrived, he opened to me his views on the subject. I had been contemplating the same object from the preceding win- ter. I was therefore prepared to enter at once into his feelings. Immediately after this, he began seriously to make arrangements preparatory to a meeting of the citi- zens. He visited several Members of Congress, the President, the Heads of Departments and others. He re- V viewed a piece, " Thoughts, &c." which he had writ- ten previous to his coming here, which we published, DR. FINLEY. 81 and which I send yon, with two other pamphlets rela- tive to the same subject. His heart, during the whole of this time, was much engaged, and he said he would cheerfully give, out of his limited means, five hundred dollars, to insure the success of the scheme. His con- versation and zeal had a considerable influence in col- lecting people to the meeting, and in conciliating many who at first appeared opposed. He proposed a prayer meeting, for the success of the meetings the evening pre- vious to the day appointed fur it, which was held, and in which he was earnestly engaged in prayer. The pamphlet accompanying this will give you some viev of the subject. " It wiil be impossible to form an opinion of what was done at that time, without having a view of the state of the public, at the time of bringing forward the question for public consideration. A few persons had barely thought of the subject, but in general, had hastily dis- missed it, as wholly impracticable. I believe the great- er part of the persons at first assembled, were brought there from curiosity, or by the solicitation of their friends, viewing the scheme as too chimerical for any rational being to undertake. A very great change was there produced, which has been gradually increasing from that time. The organization of the society at that lime, maybe principally attributed to Mr. Finley's pre- sence here, as it was greatly promoted by his zeal, his assiduity and his knowledge of the subject: as his pam- phlet show? that his thoughts had been, much occupied with it." 11 82 MEMOIRS Ot "November 10th, 1818, s< Rev. and Dear Sir, " You ask, sir, what agency Dr. Finley exerted in the formation of the Colonization Society, within the District of Columbia ? 1 answer, he was the sole mover and promoter of it ; nor did he leave the District until it was organized, and put into operation. His last pub- lic act in the last public meeting, was to make, by the request of Mr. Herbert, then a Member of Congress, one of the most solemn prayers for its success. When Mr. Finley came here I was not acquainted with him, but he soon developed his ideas to me upon the subject, which you may be sure met with my most decided approba- tion. He got introductions to the Heads of Depart- ments, and to Mr. Madison himself, told them all what he thought upon the subject, the good he thought would result from it. Some laughed — others wondered ; — but he remained unshaken in his purpose, and told me once when we were walking together, 'I know this scheme is from God !' " I must not conceal, however, that in the Virginia as- sembly, which met that fall, a motion was made to colo- nize the free people of colour, upon the shores of the Pacific Ocean, somewhere near the mouth of the river !! and 1 think Mr. Finley's doings here were known to that assembly. " If this colony should ever be formed in Africa, great injustice will be done to Mr. Finley, if in the history of iU his name be not mentioned as the first mover, and if some town or district in the colony be not called Fin- DR. FINLEV. 8,'J These letters, from eye-witnesses of Mr. Finley's inde- fatigable efforts, partakers in his counsels and exertions, place his conduct, on that important and interesting oc- casion, in a just and honourable point of view. Mr. Finley's "Thoughts on the colonization of free blacks," are an important original product ion. The valuable in- formation it contains — the excellent spirit it breathes — and the traits of originality in matter and manner, which it exhibits, render it highly deserving of an insertion in this narrative. Full of thought and of zeal, he brings you at once, without the formality of an introduction, to the main point of discussion. "What shall we do with the free people of colour? What can we do for their happi- ness consistently with our own? are questions often asked by the thinking mind. The desire to make them happy has often been felt, but the difficulty of devising and accomplishing an efficient plan, has hitherto appear- ed too great for humanity itself to accomplish. The mind shrunk back from the attempt. The time was not arrived. The servitude of the sons of Ham, described by Noah in the spirit of prophesy, concerning the future condition of his posterity, was not terminated. At pre- sent, as if by a divine impulse, men of virtue, piety and reflection, are turning their thoughts to this subject, and seem to see the wished for plan unfolding, in the gradual separation of the black from the white population, by pro- viding for the former, some suitable situation, where they may enjoy the advantages to which they are entitled by na- ture and their Creator'' s will. This is a great subject, and there are several weighty questions connected a\ ith it, which deserve a deep consideration. " Is it a practicable thing to form a colony of free blacks in our own wild lands, or on the coast of Africa? 84 MEMOIRS OF " Is it probable that the establishment would be pro- ductive of general happiness? " What is the most desirable situation for such a set- tlement? In what manner, and by whom might such a colony be planted with the greatest hope of success ? "Much wisdom would no doubt be required in ar- ranging a plan of so much magnitude, and some perse- verance in executing it and carrying it to perfection. Rut it cannot be supposed to be among the things which are impracticable, to plant a colony, either of blacks or whites, either in Africa, or in some remote district of our own country. Most nations have had their colo- nies. Greece and Rome planted many, which grew and flourished, and which, as they grew, added strength and lustre to the mother country. At the present time there are few nations who have not their foreign settlements, and some of them from year to year are increasing the numbers of their colonies. With what ease is Great Britain transplanting apart of her population, in the re- motest regions of the earth, and peopling New-Holland, a land destined like our own to extend the empire of liberty and Christian blessings to surrounding nations.* It does not appear that it would require much greater skill or labour, to form a separate establishment for free blacks in our own distant territories, than it is to form a new state. The people of colour, observing the con- stant emigration of the whites, would soon feel the com- * " It is a remarkable instance of the mysterious and inscrutable ways of Pro- vidence, that the colony of New-Holland, which is principally composed of British convicts, has become flourishing ; its inhabitants peaceable, orderly and indus- trious, and through the instrumentality of missionaries, Christianity is flourishing among them ; and through them, likely to extend civilization, and the benefits of the Christian religion, to the iguorant aud superstitious natives of that cosmtrv and the adjacent islands." DR. FINLEV. 85 raon impulse, if they could see a place where they might remove, and which they could fondly call their own. Many have both the means and disposition to go to any reasonable distance, or even to a great distance, where they could assume the rank of men, and act their part upon the great theatre of life. Their local attachments are no stronger than those of other men, their ambition no less than that of any other colour. "To colonize them in Africa, would be a much more arduous undertaking. The country must be explored, and some situation chosen, fertile and healthy — expense must be incurred, in fair and honourable purchase from the natives — an honourable appeal perhaps be made to the nations of Europe, as to the justice and humanity of our views. An efficient government must, for a time at least, be afforded fo the colony — the free blacks must be instructed that it would be to their interest to remove to the land which gave them origin, and instruction pro- vided to raise their minds to that degree of knowledge, which in time would fit them for self-government. These difficulties are real, and some of them might be found to be very great, but they are not insurmountable. "We have wisdom in our councils, and energy in our government. In such an undertaking, we should have reason and the God of eternal justice on our side. Humanity has many a virtuous son, who would willingly and carefully ex- plore^ the long line of African coast, ^\ hich has not fallen under the dominion of any European nation. Their devotedness to their country's interest and glory would make them faithful to their undertaking, and their desire for the happiness of the free people of col- our, would induce them if possible to find a country where health and plenty might be enjoyed. The con- 86 MEMOIRS OF sent of the chiefs to part with a sufficient portion of soil, might be easily obtained, especially when they were informed that the sole design of the colony was to re- store their own children, and bring them back, free and happy. From what has often taken place on the coast of Africa, we may be assured that the cost of procuring the right of soil, by fair and just purchase, would not be great. The expense of conveying the first settlers, of maintaining a sufficient force to protect the colony, and of supplying the wants of the colonists for a short peri- od, might be more considerable. Yet the wisdom of congress might devise some means of lightening, per- haps of re-paying, the cost. Many of the free people of colour have property sufficient to transport, and after- ward to establish themselves. The ships of war might be employed occasionally in this service, while many would indent themselves to procure a passage to the land of their independence. The crews of the national ships which might be from time to time at the colony, would furnish at least a part of that protection which would be necessary for the settlers ; and in a little time the trade which the colony would open with the interi- or, would more than compensate for every expense, if the colony were wisely formed. 'From the single river of Sierra Leone, where there is a colony of free people of colour, the imports in Great Britain were nearly, and the exports to the same river full} r , equal to the imports and exports, exclusive of the slave trade, of the whole extent of the western coast of Africa, prior to the aboli- tion of that traffic.'* To allay the jealousies of other nations, which might arise from our establishing a settle- * " Ninth report of African Institution. DR. FINLEY. 8T raent in Africa, a successful appeal might be made to their justice and humanity. It would be only doing as they have done, should no such appeal be made. Spain has her settlements in Africa; France, on the rivers Gambia and Senegal ; Great Britain, at Sierra Leone and the Cape ; Portugal, in Congo and Loango. On the principles of justice, no nation would have a right to interfere with our intentions. Moreover, in this pe- riod of the world, when the voice of justice and human- ity begins to be listened to with attention, is there not reason to hope, that plans, the sole design of which is the benefit of the human race, would be approved in the cabinets of princes, and hailed by the benevolent of all nations? The colony would not suffer for want of in- structors, in morals, religion and the useful arts of life. The time at last is come when not a few are imbibing the spirit of Him who came from Heaven "to seek and save the lost." That spirit is only beginning to go forth, which has already been so successful in teaching, the Caffre, the Hottentot, the Boshemen, the means of present happiness and the way of eternal life.* In the mean time the great efforts which are making to improve the mental condition of the people of colour seems de- signed in providence to prepare them for some great and happy change in their situation. " It need not be apprehended, that these people would be unwilling to remove to the proposed establishment. To suppose this, is to suppose that they do not long after happiness, that they do not feel the common pride and * " A plan of a school was laid in New-York, October, 181G, for the purpose of training young people of colour, as teachers for those of their own colour, in this country, and to have a supply of instructors ready for the proposed colony, should it be ever formed. 88 MEMOIRS OF feelings of men. In some of our great cities there are associations formed to open a correspondence with the colony at Sierra Leone and prepare their minds for a removal to a colony should it be ever formed.* The colony at Sierra Leone on the western coast of Africa, seems as if designed by God to obviate every difficulty, to silence objections, and point out the way in which ev- ery obstacle may be removed, if measures sufficiently wise are adopted in establishing a similar colony from this country. The colony alluded to was first establish- ed in the year 1T91. Its first settlers were a few people of colour who were in Great Britain, and from 1100 to 1200 of the same description in Nova Scotia. In the year 1311, the population had increased to 2000 exclu- sive of many natives, notwithstanding the sickness and mortality incident to a new settlement, and the settle- ment being once destroyed by the French. In the year 1816, the population had increased to 3000. f All this has been accomplished, or at least it was originated and for many years maintained, by a company of benevolent * " Such an association exists in Philadelphia. f " Early in the winter of 181 C. about thirty people of colour left Boston witli a view of settling themselves in the British colony at Siena Leoue. in Africa. The vessel in which they sailed was the property and under the command of the celebrated Paul Cuffee. Captain Cuffee has returned to this country, and bring3 letters from the emigrants to their friends and benefactors. We have seen one of the letters dated April 3, 1815. It states that they all arrived safe at Sierra Leone, after a passage of 55 days, and were welcomed by all in the colouy. The place is represented as " good." They have fruits of all kinds and at all seasons of the year. The governor gave each family a lot of land in the town, and fifty acres of "good land" in the country, or more in proportion to their families. Their land in the country is about two miles from town. They have plenty of rice and corn, and all other food that is good There were five churches in the colony, and three or fonrechools, in one of which there were 130 female African. 1 who are taught to read the word of God." The Boston Recorder. DR. FINLEY. 89 and enterprising men, by men too who are far removed from those places where free blacks are to be found. What then might be done under the blessing of that Be- ing who wills the happiness of all his creatures, by the American government, aided by the benevolence of all its citizens, and surrounded with thousands who would be willing to emigrate, and many of whom could carry with them property, the useful arts of life, and above all, the knowledge ofthe benign religion of Christ. "Js it probable that the general good would be promoted hi/ the establishment of such a colony ? If there is not rea- son to believe that it would be for the general benefit, the idea ought to be given up and the scheme rejected. But is there not reason to believe that the interest of the whites and the free people of colour would be equal- ly promoted, by the latter being colonized in some suit- able situation ? It can scarcely be doubted that slavery has an injurious effect on the morals and habits of a country where it exists. It insensibly induces a habit of indolence. Idleness seldom fails to be attended with dissipation. Should the time ever come when slavery shall not exist in these states, yet if the people of colour remain among us, the effect of their presence will be unfavourable to our industry and morals. The recol- lection of their former servitude will keep alive the feeling that they were formed for labour, and that the descendants of their former masters, ought to be exempt, at least, from the more humble and toilsome pursuits of life. The gradual withdrawing of the blacks would in- sensibly, and from an easy necessity induce habits of industry, and along with it a love of order and religion. Could they be removed to some situation where tlies might live alone, society would be saved many a pan-. 12 90 MEMOIRS OF which now is felt, and must in course of time be much more sensibly felt from the intermixture of the different colours, and at the same time be relieved from a heavy burden, in supporting that large portion of this people which falls into poverty and must be maintained by oth- ers. If the benefit of the proposed separation would be considerable to those states where the people of colour are comparatively (ew, how great would it be to those where they are very numerous. The love of liberty which prevails in those states, must be attended with a desire to see abolished a system so contrary to the best feelings of our natures. But however strong the desires of many, however lively the impressions of the great principles of right, or however pungent the convictions of a dying bed, it is believed to be unsafe to encourage the idea of emancipation. The evil therefore increases every year, and the gloomy picture grows darker con- tinually, so that the question is often and anxiously ask- ed — What mill be the end of all this? The most natural and easy answer seems to be — let no time be lost — let a colony or colonies be formed on the coast of Africa, and let laws be passed permitting the emancipation of slaves on condition that they shall be colonized. By these means the evil of slavery will be diminished, and in a way so gradual as to prepare the whites for the happy and progressive change. " The benefits of the proposed plan to the race of blacks appear to be numerous and great. That they are capable of improvement is not to be contradicted, and that their improvement progresses daily, notwithstand- ing every obstacle, is not to be denied. Their capaci- ty for self government whether denied or not, is ever present to our view in the island of St. Domingo. But it DR. FINLEY. 91 is in vain that we believe them capable of improvement, or that we are convinced that they are equal to the task of governing- themselves, unless this unhappy people are separated from their former masters. The friends of man will strive in vain to raise them to a proper level while they remain among us. They will be kept down, on the one side by prejudice, too deep rooted to be eradicated, on the other, by the recollection of former inferiority, and despair of ever assuming an equal stand- ing in society. Remove them. Place them by them- selves in some climate, congenial with their colour and constitutions, and in some fruitful soil ; their contracted minds will then expand and their natures rise. The hope of place and power will soon create the feeling that they are men. Give them the hope of becoming- possessed of power and influence, and the pleasure of their invigorated minds will be similar to ours in like circumstances. At present they have (e\v incentives to industry and virtue, compared with those which they would feel, in a land which they could call their own, and where there Avas no competition except with their own colour. " This great enterprise, must be undertaken ; either by a union of virtuous and pious individuals, as in the case of the colony of Sierra Leone already mentioned in its original state ; or by the government of the Uni- ted States. Perhaps on mature deliberation, it might ap- pear a work worthy of the government, and one that could be accomplished with the greatest ease and in the most efficient manner under the patronage of the nation. None but the nation's arm could reach to all the situa- tions in which the free blacks are placed through our extended country, nor any but its councils be wise 92 MEMOIRS O* enough to accommodate the various interests which ought to be consulted in so great an undertaking. If wrong has been done to Africa in forcing away her weeping children, the wrong can be best redressed, by that power which did the injury. If Heaven has been offended, by putting chains on those, whom by its eter- nal laws it has willed to be free, the same hand which provoked the divine displeasure, should offer the aton- ing sacrifice. Under a former government this guilt and evil were brought principally upon our land ; but for many years the state governments, under the eye of the general government, continued this great violation of the laws of nature. Let then the representatives of this great and free people, not only feel it to be their in- terest, but their duty and glory to repair the injuries done to humanity by our ancestors by restoring to inde- pendence those who were forced from their native land ? and are now found among us. " It remains yet to answer the question: Should con- gress in their wisdom adopt the proposed measure ; would it best answer the end designed, to plant the co- lony in some distant section of our country, or in the land to which their colour and original constitution are adapted 1 If fixed in the territories of the United States, the expense of procuring soil might be saved, and the difficulty of removing settlers to the appointed place would be diminished, especially if the colony were planted at no very great distance in the interior. But these advantages would be in part counterbalanced, by having in our vicinity an independent settlement of peo- ple who were once our slaves. There might be cause of dread, lest they should occasionally combine with our Indian neighbours, or with those European nation? DK. F1NJ.EY. 93 who have settlements adjacent to our own, and we should have them for our enemies. However great the distance at which such a settlement would be made in our own country, it would furnish great facility to the slaves in the nearest states, to desert their masters' ser- vice, and escape to a land where their own race was sovereign and independent. An easy communication would also he open, to send information to those who remain in slavery, so as to make them uneasy in their servitude. If removed to Africa, these last difficulties would disappear, or be greatly diminished. There we should have nothing to fear from their becoming our ene- mies. Removed far from our sight, our contempt of them, produced by their situation, and by long habit confirm- ed, would gradually die away, and their jealousy and suspicion proportionably decrease. The colony could never become an asylum for fugitive slaves, and but lit- tle opportunity could be afforded to communicate with this country in such a manner as to render the slaves un- easy in their masters' service. On the other hand, great and happy results might be produced by their being col- onized in Africa. It is the country of their fathers, a climate suited to their colour, and one to which their constitution, but partially altered by their abode in this country would soon adapt itself. Who can tell the blessings which might in this w r ay be conferred on Afri- ca herself, when her strangers should be restored, and she should receive her children redeemed from bon- dage by the humanity of America, and by the hand of virtue and religion restored from their captivity. With what delight would she view them, improved in arts, in civilization and in knowledge of the true God. She would forget her sorrows, her wounds would be healed 94 MEMOIRS Ol and she would bless the hands of her benefactors. Do we not owe to that hapless country a debt contracted by our fathers ; and how can we so well re-pay it, as by transporting to her shores a multitude of its own descen- dants, who have learned the arts of life and are softened by the power of true religion, and who can therefore be in- strumental in taming and placing in fixed abodes, the wild and wandering people who now roam over that great section of the globe. A nation of Christians ought to believe that all the earth is destined to enjoy happiness under the dominion of the Prince of peace. Africa is not forgotten by Him who ' feeds the spar- rows.' The spirit of her people shall arise. Her sons shall assume their proper dignity, and she shall yet re- joice in her Creator's favour. Heaven executes its pur- poses by human agents, and perhaps this may be one of those means which are laid up in store to bless the sable millions that now exist, the pity of angels, but the scorn of thoughtless man. Could any thing be deemed so ef- fectual for the happiness of that portion of the world as the plan proposed ? In this way there might soon be fix- ed a seat of liberal learning in Africa, from which the rays of knowledge might dart across those benighted re- gions. Is it too much to believe it possible that He who brings light out of darkness, and good out of evil, has suffered so great an evil to exist as African slavery, that in a land of civil liberty and religious knowledge, thousands and tens of thousands might at the appointed time be prepared to return, and be the great instrument of spreading peace and happiness. Let not these reflections be thought wholly visionary. We know that the ways of the great lluler of the world and Dirrctor of events are wonderful and great beyond cal- DR. F1NLEY. 95 culation. We know that groat and increasing benefits arise to the natives of Africa from the colony at Sierra I .( uiie. From the vicinity of that colony, the son of an African chief, who has seen and felt its benefits, thus writes in the summer of 1815 : ' What a happy thing it is to see the peaceable state that this country is now in ! quiet and free from slave vessels! — no dragging of fami- lies from one another ! — no innumerable slaves chained together, male and female ! and the enemies of humani- ty, the slave traders, gradually quitting the country ! It has struck me forcibly, that where the gospel makes its appearance, there satan's kingdom gradually diminishes. May God give grace and perseverance to his servants to carry on his work ; and make them instruments in his hands of bringing them to perfection. On the fourth of June, 1815, ninety children and one adult were baptized into the faith of Christ in the colony.' On which occa- sion the same young prince thus writes : ' I never was better pleased in my lifetime than to see so many of my countrymen brought so far as to be baptized, and partic- ularly when I saw a grown up native come forward to be baptized. We had likewise the happiness of seeing our church so full, that some were obliged to stand out of doors. Five or six of the native chiefs were present on the occasion. I had more hopes that day than I ever had of those poor perishing countrymen of mine*'* The period in which we live is big with great events, and as happy as they are great. It is pregnant with greater still. We have lived to see the day when man has begun to learn the lesson of freedom and happiness. America is blessed with every blessing civil and reli- * " Appendix to Christian Observer, for 1813. 96 MEMOIRS OF gious. Europe begins slowly but sensibly to reform her governments. The gloomy and dread superstitions of Asia, begin to totter before the gospel of Christ. Nor shall Africa be forgotten. Her bosom begins to warm with hope, and her heart to beat with expectation and desire. Toward this land of liberty she turns her eyes, and to the representatives of this great and free people, she stretches forth her hands, panting for the return of her absent sons and daughters. Happy America, if she shall endeavour not only to rival other nations in arts and arms, but to equal and exceed them in the great cause of humanity, which has begun its never ending course." This treatise is probably the first on this great subject ever published in the United States. It exhibits a strong, benevolent and active mind, exploring a new, expanded and interesting subject, drawing its outlines, its difficul- ties, it's advantages, its various points of interest and im- portance, in so distinct, judicious and impressive a man- ner, that subsequent speakers and writers on the same subject, have added little to the soundness of reflection, extensiveness of view, and clearness of illustration here displayed. This pamphlet excited much attention, and had considerable influ nee on the public mind, at its first appearance. Through its instrumentality, in con- nection with Mr. Finley's personal exertions, a very respectable number of gentlemen were convened, ac- cording to appointment, on the 21 st of December, 1816, for the purpose of forming a colonization society. At this meeting the Hon. Henry Clay, Esq. of Ken- tucky, presided, and opened the business Avith an appro- priate address, which was concluded with the following important remarks : — DR. FINLEF. 97 " It was proper and necessary distinctly to state, that he understood it constituted no part of the object of this meeting, to touch or agitate, in the slightest degree, a delicate question connected with another portion of the coloured people of our country. It was not proposed to deliberate on, or consider at all, any question of eman- cipation, or that was connected with the abolition of slavery." Elias Boudinot Caldwell, Esq. instructed and interest- ed this meeting, by a very luminous and eloquent speech, of which the following is the closing paragraph : — " Among the objections which have been made, I must confess that I am most surprised at one which seems to be prevalent, to wit, that these people will be unwil- ling to be colonized. What, sir, are they not men ? Will they not be actuated by the same motives of inte- rest and ambition, which influence other men ? or will they prefer remaining in a hopeless state of degradation for themselves and their children, to the prospect of the full enjoyment of the civil rights, and a state of equality ? What brought our ancestors to these shores ? They had no friendly hand to lead them ; no powerful human arm to protect them. They left the land of their nativity, the sepulchres of their fathers, the comforts of civilized society, and all the endearments of friends and relatives and early associations, to traverse the ocean, to clear the forests, to encounter all the hardships of a new settle- ment, and to brave the dangers of the tomahawk and scalping knife. How many were destroyed ! Sometimes whole settlements cut off' by disease and hunger — by the treachery and cruelty of the savages: yet were they not discouraged. What is it impels many Europeans daily to seek our shores, and to sell themselves for the prime 13 98 MEMOIRS OK of their life, to defray the expense of their passages? It is that ruling, imperious desire, planted in the breast of every man ; the desire of liberty, of standing upon an equality with his fellow men. If we were to add to these motives the offer of land, and to aid in the expense of emigration, and of first settling, they cannot be so blind to their own interest, so devoid of every generous and noble feeling, as to hesitate about accepting the of- fer. It is not a matter of speculation and opinion only. It has been satisfactorily ascertained, that numbers will gladly accept of the invitation ; and when once the co- lony is formed and flourishing, all other obstacles will be easily removed. It is for us to make the experi- ment and the offer: we shall then, and not till then, have discharged our duty. It is a plan in which all in- terests, all classes and descriptions of people may unite; in which all discordant feelings may be lost in those of humanity — in promoting 'peace on earth and good will to men.' " The illustrious Randolph, of Roanoke, briefly exerted his powers in favour of the proposed plan, thus increas- ingly endearing to his country his great and splendid talents. Measures were commenced for bringing this subject as speedily as possible before Congress, in a respectful memorial, requesting them to procure a territory, in Af- rica or elsewhere, suitable for the colonization of the free people of colour; and a committee was appointed to prepare a constitution and rules for the government of the society, to be organized at a subsequent meeting. On Saturday, 28th of December, 1816, according to ad- journment, a large number of citizens of Washington, of Georgetown, of Alexandria, and others, assembled— DR. FINLEV. 9^ when Mr. Finley enjoyed the peculiar satisfaction of seeing the expected constitution reported and unani- mously adopted, the "American society for colonizing the free people of colour," completely organized, and officers appointed for the ensuing year. It is an auspicious circumstance in this business, and a source of lively gratification, to see at the head of this noble institution, which confers honour on our country, the name of Washington, with which we are accustomed to associate every thing wise and patriotic in council, magnanimous and beneficent in action. Tt excites also pleasing sensations to find the humble and unaspiring au- thor of this heaven-born enterprise, as an acknowledgment of his distinguished merit and pre-eminent zeal, enrolled in the catalogue of eminent statesmen and patriots who were elected as vice-presidents of this society for the first year. We cannot but notice with satisfaction the resolution which closed this important meeting— a reso- lution which does honour to the respectable mover of it, and to the whole society: — "On motion of Mr. Herbert, resolved unanimously, that the R.ev. Robert Finley be requested to close the meeting with an address to the throne of grace." Mr. Finley's journey to the seat of government, and his continued exertions there for several successive >veeks, proved very beneficial to his health, and the com- plete success which crowned his efforts, gave so pleas- ing an excitement to his spirits, that he returned home in a state of mind and body much invigorated and im- proved. On his arrival in Philadelphia, he was grieved to find the people of colour in that city filled with painful alarms and apprehensions, respecting the nature and oh- 100 MEMOIRS OF ject of the colonization society, so recently instituted at Washington. The suspicions and fears of these people had been excited in a very considerable degree, by means of mistaken or mischievous statements received among them, purporting to have been communicated from Washington, and representing, in substance, that the society established there was designed to remove the free people of colour in a forcible manner from this country, without making provision for their support and comfort. Their prejudice thus inspired, had unhappily been strengthened by erroneous suggestions from cer- tain persons residing in the city. This unhappy state of things Mr. Finley endeavoured immediately to reme- dy, by his personal presence and influence. The following representation of the measures he adopted for that purpose, has beemobligingly furnished by a gentleman who received the statement from him- self, and of whose correctness there can be no reasona- ble doubt : — "Dr. Finley had been on a visit to Washington. Having returned as far as Philadelphia, he there met the Rev. John Gloucester, and from conversation with him, found that there was a considerable perturbation in the minds of the people of colour, produced by the pro- ceedings at Washington relative to their colonization. This was immediately after public notice of this business had been taken at Washington. A meeting of the peo- ple of colour had been called at Philadelphia, and a committee of twelve had been appointed by them, to take this subject into consideration. Dr. Finley re- quested an interview with this committee, and obtained it ; eleven out of the twelve attending. He found that they were considerably alarmed at the proposed pla* DR. FINLEV. 101 of colonization, and strongly prejudiced against it, sus- pecting that some purpose, injurious to their class of people, was hidden under it. He spent nearly an hour in conversing with them on that point, endeavouring to remove their fears and prejudices, pointing them to the character of the gentlemen who advocated the scheme, and showing the advantages which would probably re- sult from it. At length they declared themselves fully satisfied as to this point, that the designs of the gentle- men who proposed and advocated the scheme were be- nevolent and good, and that the thing in itself was desi- rable for them. "Having removed this difficulty, the next question was, where will be a suitable place for colonization? On this point there was a division : some thought they should have a part of our back and uncultivated lands allowed them : others thought Africa would be the most suitable place. Two names in particular I recol- lect he mentioned as decided on this last point, J F and R A . J. F. he observed, was ani- mated on the subject. He said their people would be- come a great nation : he pointed to Hayti, and declared it as his opinion that their people could not always be detained in their present bondage : he remarked on the peculiarly oppressive situation of his people in our land, observing that neither riches nor education could put them on a level with the whites, and that the more wealthy and the better informed any of them became, the more wretched they were made ; for they felt their de- gradation more acutely. He gave it as his decided opinion that Africa was the proper place for a colon}*. He observed to those present, that should they settle any where in the vicinity of the whites, their condition must 102 MEMOIRS OF become before many years as bad as it now is, since the white population is continually rolling back, and ere long they must be encompassed again with whites. " R. A. spoke with warmth on some oppressions which they suffer from the whites, and spoke warmly in favour of colonization in Africa, declaring that were he young he would go himself. He spoke of the advanta- ges of the colony at Sierra Leone, and highly of Paul Guffee. He considered the present plan of colonization as holding out great advantages for the blacks who are now young. " The committee of whom I speak were of the most re- spectable class of blacks. So far as I recollect, this is the substance of what Dr. Finley told me. As far as I have gone, you may rely on facts." This communication is introduced, chiefly to show, with what steadfastness, solicitude and indefatigable dili- gence, Mr. Finley prosecuted this noble object. It may teach us also with what sentiments, this benevolent system will probably be viewed by the more enlighten- ed, moral and respectable part of the people of colour, in cool, dispassionate and reflecting moments, when their suspicion and prejudice, are in some measure removed by proper explanations of the nature and design, benefits and prospects of this society. Mr. Finley arrived at home about the middle of Jan- uary, 1817. The Legislature of New- Jersey were then in session, which usually attracts to the seat of govern- ment, a considerable number of respectable individuals, besides the representatives from the several counties in the state. Deeply interested in the progress of the col- onization scheme, and anxious to embrace every oppor- tunity of prosecuting its interests, after a short repose at . dr. hnli:i . 103 home, he visited Trenton, with a view to attempt the formation of a subordinate colonization society for the state of New-Jersey.* On his arrival at the seat of government, he found a spirit of indifference to this great object, bordering on hostility to it, in some instan- ces existing. After he had spent some time in endeav- ouring to remove these prejudices, and to conciliate those who appeared to be indifferent or disaffected, a public meeting was held in the State House, at which, notwithstanding the extreme inclemency of the weather, a number of the principal citizens of Trenton, many members of the Legislature, and a considerable number of gentlemen of distinction, from different parts of the state attended. The proposal for establishing a col- * The following memorial which had heeR previously printed and circulated will suggest to the reader another motive that influenced Mr. Finley in the visit here mentioned : — 11 To the Honourable the Legislature of New-Jersey. "The Memorial and Petition of the subscribers, inhabitants of New-Jersey, showeth that they have viewed with great interest and concern the present condi- tion and future prospects of the free people of colour in this and our sister states, While the love ofliberty, and the feelings of humanity have produced the eman- cipation of a great number of these people, and are gradually effecting the free- dom of the rest; it is with much regret that your petitioners observe the degra- ded situation in which those who have been freed from slavery remain ; and from a variety of considerations will probably remain while they continue among the whit-. " To enable them to rise to that condition to which they are entitled by the laws of God and nature, it appears desirable, and even necessary, to separate them from their former masters and place them in some favourable situation by them- selves, perhaps in Africa, the land of their fathers. It is therefore respectfully re- quested of the legislature to instruct, by resolution or otherwise, the senato;s and representatives from the state of New Jersey, to lay before the congress at their next meeting, as a subject of consideration, the expediency of forcing a colony en the coast of Africa or elsewhere, where such of the people of colour as are now free, or may be herea.'ter set free, may with their own coosent be removed • an^I your petitioners will, as in duty bound, ever pray." 104 MEMOIRS O* onization society* auxiliary to that formed at Washing- ton, was agreed to — a plan of a constitution for the same, was prepared and adopted — and officers were appoint- ed for the ensuing year. " The following extract from a letter received by Mr. Finley from Paul Cuffee will be read with interest : — " Westport — -first month, (January) 8, 1817. " I received thy letter of the 5th ult. not in time to an- swer thee at Washington. I observe in the printed pe- tition in thy letter, the great and laborious task you are engaged in, and my desires are that you may be guided by wisdom's best means. I stand as it were in a low place, and am not able to see far. But, blessed be God, who hath created all things, and who is able to make use of instruments as best pleaseth Him, and may I be resigned to his holy will. The population, of Sierra Leone, in loll, was two thousand, and one thousand in the suburbs. Since that time they have not been num- bered. But from 1811, to 1815, I think the colony has much improved. They are entitled to every privilege of free-born citizens, and fill stations in their courts." The society for colonizing the free people of col- our, established at Washington, December 1816, held its first anniversary, on Thursday, the first of January, 1818, in the chamber of the House of Representatives. The appropriate address with which the Hon. Bushrod Washington, president of the society, opened the meet- * It is much regretted that this society has not been convened since the adjourned meeting held in the city of Trenton soon after its form »tion. Its officers, its mem - bers and its advocates, are, however, only waiting to receive the report of the commissioners of the parent society, that, having the great object in contempla- tion, more fully and clearly placed before them, they may pursue it with more in- telligence and effect. DR. FIN'LEl. 105 ing, presents the following valuable and pleasing intima- tions, with regard to the operations and prospects of the society : — " From every quarter of the United States, the aspira- tions of good men have been breathed to Heaven for the success of our future labours. " Among a small but opulent society of slave-holders in Virginia, a subscription has been raised, by the zeal- ous exertions of a few individuals, of such magnitude, as to illustrate the extent of the funds, which we may hope hereafter to command, and to induce a confident hope that our labours will be awarded by the willing contri- butions of a generous and enlightened people. "Other public spirited individuals have forborne to make similar efforts, until the success of our preparatory measures shall have been clearly ascertained. " The society have engaged two agents to explore the Western coasts of Africa, and to collect such infor- mation as may assist the government of the United States in selecting a suitable district on that continent for the proposed settlement. The performance of this prelimi- nary duty has been confided to Samuel J. Mills, and Ebenezer Burgess, gentlemen possessing all the qualifi- cations requisite for the important trust confided to them ; and their report may reasonably be expected be- fore the next annual meeting of the society." The following interesting paragraphs are extracted from the first annual report of the Board of Managers, read at the anniversary of the society : — " The first step of the Board of Managers was to pre- sent a memorial to Congress at their last session, which, with the report of the committee, to whom it was referred, is now laid before the society. The nature and novelty 14 106 MEMOIRS OF of the subject, not less than the mass of busines3 which engaged the deliberations of that body, did not permit them to pursue the report. " We are happy to state that auxiliary societies* have been formed, in Baltimore, Philadelphia, New-York, Virginia, and Ohio, and the Board have received infor- mation of the intention of forming other societies in dif- ferent parts of the country. The extension of these aux- iliaries is of the first importance, as it is by their means the public mind must be enlightened on the great and important objects of the society, and it is through them, in some measure, the necessary funds must be drawn for its support." With regard to the objection founded on the ' sup- posed repugnance of the colonists,' this report, furnishes the following animating information. " The managers have ascertained that there are num- bers of the highest standing for intelligence and respect- ability among that class of people, who are warmly in favour of the plan, from a conviction that it will, if ac- complished, powerfully co-operate in placing the situa- tion of their brethren here and in Africa, in that scale of happiness and respectability among the nations of the earth, from which they have long been degraded. " Offers of service have been received from many worthy and influential individuals of their own colour, and from a number of families from different parts of the United States, to become the first settlers in the colony, whenever a suitable situation shall be procured. The managers can with confidence state their belief, that they would have no difficulty in procuring individuals * To this number might have been added the auxiliary society of New-Jersey. DR. F1NLEV. 107 among them worthy of trust and confidence, to explore the country if necessary, and to plant a colony of suffi- cient strength to secure its safety and prosperity. This being accomplished, there can be no difficulty in presenting its importance to their brethren, in such a manner, and with such unquestionable testimony, as must command their fullest confidence." The manner in which the death of Doctor Finley is noticed in the close of this report is particularly gratify- ing :— " The managers cannot pass the occasion, without noticing the death of the Reverend Doctor Finley, one of the vice Presidents, during the past year. The deep interest which he took in the success of the society, and the zeal he displayed in its formation, are well known to many present. In his last sickness, he was much grati- fied upon receiving information of the progress of the society, and of its prospects of success. It gave conso- lation to his last moments. When we view the society in this early stage of its proceedings, as animating the hopes and cheering the prospects of the dying Christian who had been engaged in its service : when we view it as consecrated by the prayers of the pious, may we not be led with humble confidence to look to the good hand of an overruling Providence to guide its deliberations ? May we not expect that the benediction of millions yet unborn shall bless its anniversary ?" At this anniversary the following important intelli- gence was communicated in a concise address by the el- oquent and humane Mercer of Virginia, to whose tal- ents, influence and liberality, this enterprise is encourag- ed to look with hi^h expectation : — 108 ftlEMOIJiS OF "Many thousand individuals you well know Mr, President, are restrained said Mr. M. from manumitting their slaves, as you and I are, by the melancholy convic- tion, that they cannot yield to the suggestions of hu- manity, without manifest injury to their country. " The rapid increase of the free people of colour, by which their number was extended in the ten years pre- ceding the last census of the United States, from 15 to 30,000, if it has not endangered our peace has impaired the value of all the private property in a large section of our country. Upon our low lands said Mr. Mercer, it seems as if some malediction had been shed. The hab- itations of our fathers have sunk into ruins, the fields, which they tilled have become a wilderness. Such is the table land between the valleys of our great rivers. Those newly grown and almost impenetrable thickets which have succeeded a wretched cultivation, shel- ter and conceal a banditti, consisting of this degraded, idle and vicious population, who sally forth from their coverts, beneath the obscurity of night, and plunder the rich proprietors of the valleys. They infest the sub- urbs of the towns and cities, where they become the depositories of stolen goods, and schooled by neces- sity, elude the vigilance of our defective police. " The laws of Virginia now discourage, and very wise- ly perhaps, the emancipation of slaves. But the very policy on which they are founded, will afford every fa- cility to emancipation, when the colonization of the slave will be the consequence of his liberation." In the course of Mr. Finley's visit at the seat of gov- ernment, he preached frequently, and the people who attended his ministrations in Washington and its vicini- ty, became exceedingly pleased and interested in him as DR. FINLEZ. 10^ a jninister of the gospel. My very respectable corres- pondent in that city, has communicated the following concise and satisfactory statement on that subject : — " During his stay here, Mr. Finley was much engaged in preaching and visiting. He preached in Washington, Georgetown and Alexandria several times, and to the very great acceptance of the people. I never knew a preacher in this District, that gained more of the public affection, in the short time he was among us. lie re- ceived a unanimous call to the Presbyterian Church in this city, and I believe would have settled here, but for some previous engagements to Georgia, which were urged upon him The people were greatly disap- pointed upon hearing that he could not settle among us. Our congregation is small and poor, yet the salary was more than doubled to enable him to come. At a meeting of the committee of the church and the elder?, of eight persons, five hundred dollars were subscribed in addition to their usual subscriptions, to enable Mr. Finley to settle here." Very soon after Mr. Finley returned from Washing- ton, he received the following letter from the Secretary of the Corporation of the University of Georgia, inform- ing him of his appointment to the Presidency of that in- stitution, and urging his acceptance of it: — "Athens, December 31, 1816. " Fteverend Sir, " It is with much sincere pleasure that I take up my pen, to address you on the subject of our former corres- pondence. This pleasure is not a little increased by the ar- dent hope that the correspondence no w officially commen- ced, or re-commenced, by the Board of Trustees, will 1 3 MEMOIRS Ob result in your removal to Athens, and in your taking the superintendence and direction of the University of Georgia. At a late meeting of the Board, the appoint- ment was conferred upon you unanimously, and Gover- nor Early was directed to announce the same to you, and to solicit your acceptance of it, The resolution con- ferring the appointment is in the words following, which I transcribe, lest the Governor's letter might miscarry: "'Resolved, That the Rev. Robert Finley, of New- Jersey, be, and he is hereby appointed President of the University of Georgia, in the place of the Rev. John Brown, resigned, with a salary of $1500 per annum, payable quarterly ; and that a copy of the above resolu- tion be transmitted to Mr. Finley, by Governor Early, the Senior Trustee, presiding at this meeting, together with a statement of the present and future funds of the University.' " Governor Eariy av ill inform you of the state of the funds of the institution, present and in prospect. On that subject I would only observe, that there is no doubt in my mind, that the Trustees will soon possess the means as well as the disposition to give their officers such salaries as will be perfectly adequate to their com- fort and convenience. For reasons which cannot be atated in a letter, Dr. Brown tendered his resignation to the Board some time in the spring, which was accept- ed in November last. The Doctor has retired and re- sides a few miles from the village. He is very solicit- ous that you should accept the appointment. You will find in him a friend and brother and an excellent man. Mr. Golding, son-in-law to Dr. Brown, is the professor of languages. With equal ardour he awaits your arri- val, to take charge of the institution. Mr. Camak, a i)R. FINLEY. 1 1 | graduate of the South Carolina college, a young gentle- man of fine talents, is professor of mathematics and astronomy. Dr. Henry Jackson, late American Charge d' affairs at Paris, and not yet returned from that coun- try, but expected soon, is professor of chemistry, mine- ralogy, &c. He is a gentleman of great science, of un- common modesty and much merit. In every measure having for its object the well being and "well doing of the college, you will have the hearty co-operation of the faculty, as well as their easy and voluntary subordina- tion, and they will be happy in your official connection with them. " It is wished that you should come on immediately, and if necessary without your family, and stay till com- mencement, on the second Monday in July, after which you could return, and in the course of the following au- tumn bring on your family. I hope, my dear sir, you will view this as a providential opening for your remo- val to a southern climate, and to a sphere of extensive usefulness. There are few healthier* ^spots in the world than Athens, although it be Georgia. The insti- tution has been in operation here sixteen years, and the grave of a student is not to be seen. I hope you will not hesitate a moment to accept. * In confirmation of MEMOIRS OK have all been very uncomfortable, I believe, through the change of water and diet. The bowels and stomach have been greatly distressed. We are all well recover- ed, so that we can begin to eat bacon, the only stated meat of the country." To exhibit Dr. Finley's first impressions on his arrival at Athens, and to convey some general idea of the state in which he found the college, the village in which it is located, and the country in general, the following let- ters, addressed by him soon after he reached that place to friends in this state, are introduced : — " June 11th, 1817, at Athens, Georgia. " Dear Sir, "Though very far separated from you in person, yet I am often present with you in mind. Indeed there are with you so many comforts and conveniences more than can be furnished here, that it would be difficult to keep my mind at all from my former home, were it not for the necessity and duty of providing for the present, and endeavouring to arrange for the improvement of the future. It would require a good part of the remainder of my life, to organize and put in motion the concerns of the college. We have enjoyed tolerable health since we arrived, except a severe affection of our stom- ach and bowels, which complaint passes away in a few days. Perhaps this may be a part of the seasoning we are to experience here. We find all things high priced, owing to the severe drought which last year swept away every thing, as the frost did in Jersey. Europe and America in the same year experienced shortness of bread ; in America the crops failing from frost and drought, in Europe from the rains. Corn is one dollar dk. FiNLxr. L2! and an half: last year it was twenty-five to thirty-seven cents- Wheat is now one dollar, usually seventy-five cents. The people's great concern is to raise cotton, buy slaves, &c. As yet there is but little thought of making any improvement, the country being new, and what is worse, the population fleeting and constantly moving off to the Alabama Territory. The country suffers greatly for want of mechanics: for though it can- not be said there are no mechanics in some branches, yet they are such that nothing is done to the satisfaction of those who have seen anything better. A tanner and currier might make a fortune in a little time in any part of this country. A man who could make boots and shoes might choose hisownbusinessand on hisown terms. A carpenter and joiner, with a common blessing, might get rich as fast as labour could enrich any one." June 24th, 1817, to another friend he writes as fol- lows : — " The place in which we live is entirely healthy, but for a few miles round the soil is considered as rather thin ; though thin as it is, it produces good crops of corn, wheat and cotton for a few years, and would con- tinue to do so if the people had any idea of manuring. They have none, but being principally emigrants from Old Virginia, they wear out a piece of land and leave it. At present immense sums of money are made by raising cotton, each slave yielding about two hundred dollars, exclusive of support. The comforts of life are not at- tended to, nor any of its elegances, either in buildings or furniture, either in dress or table. Morals low, cor- rect ideas few, manners coarse, and religious knowledge nearly nothing. Yet some of the people seem to be sensible of all this, and desirous to have it all changed. 123 MEMOIRS O* But irresolution arising from inexperience, and the indo- lence connected with slaver//, will make changes slow, un- less northern and eastern people come in to show an ex- ample and to take a lead. This part of the country suf- fers a very great inconvenience in having no bottom meadows; and the soil being sandy, does not produce grass. At the same time, the people are determined to believe that no kind of grass seed can be sown with suc- cess. " The college is at the last gasp — forgotten in the public mind, or thought of only to despair of it — neg- lected and deserted — the buildings nearly in a state of ruins — and the Trustees doubtful whether it can ever be recovered. This is a picture not over drawn. You can readily conceive how all this has operated on my mind. I thank the Lord my spirits do not sink, nor is my heart discouraged. Yet possessed of tranquillity and hope, one week at my old residence would give me more pleasure than all I have felt since I bade you fare- well at Elizabeth-Town Point. Some that I left I shall not see till the heavens are no more. " Instead of my large congregation I now preach to about fifty people. What a change ! Blessed be God, we shall be in the ' great congregation' shortly. " With sincere love and respect, yours, "ROBERT FINLEY." The following letter to a respectable gentleman at Basking Ridge, and intimate friend of Dr. Finley, pos- sesses considerable interest, as illustrating farther the early history and the prevailing habits of the country in which the college is situated. DR. FINLEY. 129 "Alliens, July 1st, 1817. " Dear Sir, " You have probably learned from some of the let- ters that have been sent from this place, something of its appearance and condition. From them you will learn that we were considerably disappointed. One cause of this is the newness of the country. It is only about twenty years since it was the abode, or at least the haunt of Indians. It is impossible therefore that society should be much advanced, or any great im- provements made; especially as not only the first, but almost the only settlers are from Virginia, and do not bring with them the spirit of improvement, which comes with eastern settlers, and even with Jerseymen. Slave- ry chills every ardour and retards every improvement, and it will continue to do so, for a long time to con e. The college is in the lowest state that is possible ; the con- tempt of the enemies of literature, the scorn of its own particular enemies, and the pity of those who were once its friends. The students are twenty-eight. It is how- ever to be observed, that there were about forty when Dr. Brown, the former president, resigned his office. Whether it can rise for a long time, does not appear to me certain; that it will shortly does not appear proba- ble : but there is every reason to hope that it will event- ually. As there are funds to pay the salaries, indepen- dent of the numbers of the students, there is some ad- vantage as well as disadvantage in the number of the students being small at first. It affords an opportunity to introduce discipline with more ease, and more efti- ciently : it affords an opportunity for the officers to es- tablish themselves in the affections of the students more floeply, and to make the improvement of the few more 17 130 MEMOIRS OF sensible to the observer. Thus much being gained, every pupil will aid in giving a name and character to the institution. We have mentioned in former letters that there are but (ew presbyterians in and about this village, and no religious society formed of that denomi- nation. There are a few methodist professors and two preachers, in the immediate vicinity of the place. " As yet I know but little of the country, having been entirely employed in endeavouring to get fixed, and making myself acquainted with the state of the college. We have no garden, nor is there any market for vegeta- bles : but we have not wanted as yet in any day for a little of something to eat. All are kind to us, and divide freely. All seem now to be contented, though we have not yet had time to learn to be pleased. "I look at Mrs. snulf-box sometimes, but it is empty and I dare not fill it. " With great regard and affection, Yours, R. FINLEY." The following very interesting communication, is enriched with intelligence, cheerfulness and piety. It is particularly valuable on account of the views it pre- sents of Dr. Finley's state of mind, in his new and trying- condition, and in full contemplation of the great and ar- duous undertaking on which he was just entering. "Athens, (Geo.) July 16th, 1817. " Dear Sir, " Your favour came to me most acceptably, and was in all respects very gratifying. It was the first letter re- ceived from Jersey except one from . Occupied DR. FINLEIT. 131 with the main subject before him, he did not give one item of intelligence. "It is a great blessing to me that in some degree I have endeavoured to cherish a missionary spirit, other- wise in the outset my situation would have been very undesirable. On account of health, the college was lo- cated quite on one side of the state, or population at least, where it was seldom seen, and where it cre- ated but little interest. Its funds, consisting of lands put to rent, were uncertain. The most of the lands are now sold, realizing an hundred thousand dollars; only sixty as yet in operation. My predecessor left forty students, of which I found twenty-seven remaining. The public mind was so dispirited that the trustees had determined to abandon the institution for a time, had their application to your friend been refused. After being unwell through the change of diet, water and cli- mate, for about two weeks, and experiencing conside- rable depression, my mind began to revive, to feel itself on missionary ground, to view the college as designed in the providence of God to meliorate the condition of man and direct his heart to heaven. These last views fixed in my mind a strong belief that I was on proper ground, where, if it pleased the Lord, with much wis- dom and self denial, with much industry and patience, some good, perhaps great good, may be done. " If my views of the men associated with me are cor- rect, the prospect is good from them. With regard to other things there is reason to hope, that so far as an im- pression has been made at all, it has been favourable-. Our nominal commencement will take place this day fortnight. Nominal, because owing to the resignation 132 MEMOIRS 0* of Dr. Brown, there is no senior class. But we shall keep up appearances. " A few weeks vacation will, I trust, afford me an op- portunity of seeing a little of this new country. No re ligious exercises have been p rformed on the Sabbath day by the students. Next Sabbath for the first there will be a recitation on the Bible, I hope. The students appear willing I am told ; though some say they do not believe the Bible, some that they never read a chapter, &c. In the village too about a dozen have expressed a willingness to be formed into a class for the same pur- pose. When the vacation commences, I shall endeav- our to commence with the village youth. We have no church formed here, but expect, or rather hope to have one soon. We have no congregations worth a name : yet there are various places in growing country towns, where young enterprising clergymen might, by teach- ing, support themselves, and at the same time raise up respectable congregations in a few years. " Brother — let us endeavour to be meek. Let us 'hunger and thirst after righteousness.' My heart em- braces, while my pen salutes you and yours. The love of my heart to the Presbytery. Shall I ever see them more ? "Yours, "ROBERT FINLEY. « P. S. — With men of reflection the colonizing scheme is as popular here, as with you in Jersey. Go on and prosper. Be firm and resolute. Life is short. All flesh is to come a little lower in worldly matters, to rise a little higher in the service of God and man. I have got my personal abasement. Lord grant I may not de- serve more." DR. FINLEY. l&J Dr. Finley found himself now in a situation which to him was new and untried injtself, very critical and high- ly responsible. He had relinquished a station which presented a pleasing sphere of comfort and emolument of honour and usefulness He was now entering upon i, great experiment, ihc result of which was covered with uncertainty. He was surrounded with a cloud of wit- nesses. In the north and in the south, many eyes were turned towards him, with high expectation and great so- licitude. The duties incumbent upon him, and the inter- ests committed to his management, were vastly exten- sive and important. One step of rashness or of folly might blast the whole enterprise. He awakens from partial repose, and summons to action all his powers. His first object is to understand the condition of the col- lege, the charge of which he has accepted. To illustrate the circumstances of this university, as they existed, at the time of Dr. Finley 's undertaking its superintendence, and to develop correctly the difficul- ties he had to encounter, it will be necessary to give a concise history of the institution, from its first establish- ment to that period. The citizens of Georgia, impressed with a sense of the importance of providing within their own state, the means of sound and useful education, turned their atten- tion very early to this interesting object. In the year 1784, the legislature of Georgia, with a highly commen- dable discretion and liberality appropriated forty thou- sand acres of land situated on the northwestern limits of that state, for the purpose of endowing and establishing a university. In the succeeding year, they granted a charter to the institution, and appointed a Board of Trustees to superintend the college affairs, giving them 1&4 MEMOIRS OF n$ authority to sell the lands entrusted to their care, but clothing them with discretionary power to use and dis- pose of then), in any other manner, for the best interests of'tlie infant seminar}". The donation to the university n r as situated in the heart of a very extensive tract of un- appropriated slate lands, on its northwestern frontier, the settling of which wa« long prevented by the con- stant dread of savage incursions, to which it was fre- quently and sometimes fatally, subject. When the fear of Indian barbarity began to subside, the population of the state to diffuse itself over this unoccupied region, and emigrants and speculators to visit it from motives of speculation and emolument — the public lands, a full and permanent title to which could be obtained at once, presented a more interesting and inviting object, to their enterprise and avarice, than the college property, sub- ject to such conditions as had been prescribed by the trustees of the college, to suit the necessities and pro- mote the interests of the institution. Consequently very little of the college demesne, appeared likely to be ta- ken on tenancy, and the endowment remained long un- productive and useless. The institution receiving no other active donation, and the corporation relying on the lands as their only resource, fifteen years elapsed before any effort could be prudently made to realize the designs and benefits of the charter. The friends of literature and of public improvement in general, perceiving the population of the state to be rapidly increasing, and feeling deeply concerned for the literary honour of Georgia, began to manifest great anxiety to see the affairs of the university placed in a more promising and successful train. Accordingly, in the year 1800, before a sufficient fund had accumulated DR. FINLET< 135 from the rents of the college property, in conformity with the public impulse, the trustees resolved to com- mence erecting the necessary college buildings. Their pecuniary resources being very inadequate, and the im- patience and importunity of public sentiment seem- ing to prohibit farther delay, to meet the exigence ol the case, and as their only alternative, they applied to the legislature of the state for authority to sell five thou- sand acres of the original appropriation, and to use the proceeds in erecting the contemplated edifice. In ad- dition to these five thousand acres now cut off' from the endowment of the college, the institution sustained the loss of ten thousand acres more, of its most valuable lands. The one half was lost in a controversy with in- dividuals, and the other part fell into the state of South Carolina, upon the adjustment of a territorial dispute. By these misfortunes which were unavoidable, and, to appearance irreparable, the resources of the institution were much impaired ; and in the building operations was unavoidably incurred, a burdensome debt, which for seventeen years painfully embarrassed all the pro- ceedings of the board of trustees. The exhausted state of the college funds forced the board afterwards into a system of economy and restriction in expenditure, which prohibited their employing a competent number of col- lege officers, prevented the purchase of a library and philosophical apparatus, and very lamentably depressed the reputation and general aspect of the institution. In these disadvantageous and discouraging circum- stances, did Dr. Finley find the seminary over which he had been selected to preside — its resources impover- ished — its credit prostrated — its friends disheartened — its principal officers retired from the scene of action — 130 MEMOIRS OF the number of students greatly diminished— the enemies of the institution encouraged and exulting — the vital power of its government paralyzed — its edifices in a state of decay and approaching ruin. He was himself far from possessing the strength of constitution and anima- tion of spirit, which had imparted life and power to his former movements. — The care and fatigue of his voy- age and journey had also produced a considerable im- pression. The country itself did not present to him an interesting and pleasing aspect. The place of his fu- ture abode did not afford a prospect of so much conve- nience and comfort to himself and his family, as he had been accustomed to enjoy and induced to anticipate. When we consider all these circumstances in connex- ion, it will not appear surprising, that his spirits should have suffered a temporary depression. Indeed, had he not possessed a mind of extraordinary firmness and reso- lution he must have sunk under the weight of the accu- mulated obstacles, and discouragements that presented themselves on every side. Low, however, and reduced, as the funds of the in- stitution were conceived to be, at first view, Dr. Finley found in the progress of his inquiries, that their nominal wa6 far beyond their real value. In the year 1815, the legislature of the state of Georgia authorised a sale of the unimproved lands of the university, and directed the proceeds to be vested in bank stock. To facilitate the accomplishment of this measure, and to put it into the power of the trustees, to make a more advantageous dis- posal of the college lands, by giving the purchasers a reasonable credit, the state very liberally advanced a sum sufficient to enable the college to purchase a thou- sand shares in a bank, expected to go into operation DR. FINLEY. 137 soon, agreeing to depend upon the proceeds of land sales for a reimbursement. This arrangement which manifested liberality and public spirit in the legislature, and which promises a very Mattering issue, afforded a benefit, principally remote, and not immediate in its in- fluence. The bank in which the funds were vested, did not commence business until the summer of 1816, and then its operations were founded upon only seventeen per centum of its original capital, and, at the expiration of a year, it had demanded but little more than half that sum. The consequence was, that the university instead of deriving an immediate and extensive advantage from the change produced in the state of its finances, received on account of its stock, and from all its other resources, a sum merely sufficient for current expenses. When therefore, Dr. Finley arrived at Athens in May, 1817, he found upon a thorough investigation of the affairs of the institution, that its funds were good only in prospect, — that although the great cause of the disease was re- moved, the debility remained. Difficulties and discouragements, too great to be en- countered by men of ordinary minds, tended only to touch the springs of his intellectual frame and to bring- all his extraordinary powers into vigorous exertion. The truth of this observation was strikingly exemplified in the case before us. Individuals of respectable tal- ents, attainments and zeal, had yielded to the opposing obstructions. But Dr. Finley found in the circumstan- ces of the university, a suitable field for the exercise of all his abilities and virtues, — his enterprise, his firmness, his indefatigable industry and perseverance, and his pre-eminent prudence and address. His character alto- gether was such, as to make him peculiarly adequate to 18 138 MEMOIRS OF the task, of recovering the institution from embarrass- ment and dishonour, and of raising it to prosperity and usefulness. Deeply impressed with a sense of the necessity of ob- taining the decided and zealous co-operation of the Board of Trustees, he at first employed all his influence with them, and endeavoured to inspire them with a live- ly interest in the state of the college, and concern for the success of the contemplated operations. With his characteristic candour and earnestness he stated to the Trustees, his opinion, that to raise the university to cred- it and usefulness, great alterations and improvements must be made immediately, through their instrumentality — that a philosophical apparatus and a respectable libra- ry must be procured — that the institution must be sup- plied with decent and comfortable buildings for ac- commodating the college officers and students — in or- der to this, that some new edifices would be required, and considerable repairs necessary to those already erected — that the officers of the institution should be re- called immediately to their posts — and that the whole establishment should be brought with all practicable speed, to exhibit such an appearance of order and taste, dignity and comfort, as other literary institutions pre- sented to view, and as would command respect, and op- erate as motives and inducements, with the intelligent, wealthy and honourable inhabitants of the southern states, to place their sons there for the purpose of prose- cuting and completing their education. He declared to them, his full persuasion, that the character of the col- lege was to be redeemed, not so much, by a change of officers, as by a change of measures— that his counsels and efforts would avail but little without their cordial concurrence and zealous assistanee. DR. FINLEY. 1UH In this interesting and important crisis, ardent and im- patient, to facilitate and expedite their progress, by gaining- some signal advantage in the out-set, he propos- ed and urged to the Board their appealing directly to the legislature of the state, in a respectful and importu- nate supplication for relief and aid, relying on the rea- sonableness of their claim, the usefulness of their object, and the former munificence of that enlightened and lib- eral body. But this measure appeared to be opposed by so many difficulties and discouragements, that on ma- ture deliberation, it was unanimously agreed not to at- tempt its execution. The anxious and determined mind of Dr. Finley, then suggested, as a last resort, the plan of casting themselves directly upon the bounty of a generous and charitable public, with a view to obtain the necessary supplies. In this measure, he was cordially reciprocated by the Board of Trustees, who promptly approved and adopted the proposed system. The necessary arrangements were made immediately and agents were appointed, to carry this plan into effect. But Dr. Finley, unbounded in his solicitude for the success of this measure, and un- willing to commit the execution of it to any other per- son, voluntarily offered his own services in the delicate and ungracious business of courting public bounty. Be- sides his earnest desire for the success of this measure, other important considerations induced him to engage in so unpleasant and laborious a service. By the char- ter of the college it was made the privilege, and duty of the president of the university annually, to visit and inspect the public schools and academies in the state of Georgia, with a view to their general amelioration and success in the system of instruction and discipline pursu- 140 MEMOIRS OF ed. As soon as this provision in the charter* came to his knowledge, he expressed himself in terms warmly approving of it, resolved to embrace the first opportuni- ty that presented itself, to enter upon this important du- ty of his office. Dr. Finley was also very desirous of becoming acquainted by personal observation, with the state of Georgia, not only in relation to the face of the country and its general improvements, but in regard to the character, condition and genius of the people — all with a view to enable him better to understand the dis- positions and habits of the youth, and more successfully to superintend their education. From this tour, he an- ticipated much profit and pleasure in relation to all these objects ; but his principal desire was to obtain pecunia- ry contributions for the aid of the university. The pe- riod allotted, for the performance of this soliciting ser- vice, was that of the approaching vacation in the col- lege. The time that elapsed before the close of the session, Dr. Finley spent in diligent attendance upon the va- rious duties of his new and important station. His at- tention was occupied principally with the daily instruc- tion of the students, and with endeavours to give form and success to the internal regulations and movements of the college. He embraced the earliest opportunity to introduce into college the study of the Bible on the Lord's day. This he considered an important and in- dispensable object of attention in schools and seminaries of learning, through all the successive stages of improve- ment. While diligently occupied with the duties of his office, fee was also anxiouly engaged in devising measures for * See note M.~~at the close of the volume. Dtt. FIN LET. 141 the general improvement and success of the college. The preaching of the gospel, he had determined m to relinquish while life lasted. The character and the duties of a pastor were endeared to his heart by a thou- sand tender and sacred ties, which he could never dis- solve nor forget. While therefore supremely devoted to his professional duties, as president, he made it an im- portant object to be useful at the same time, as far as possible, as a minister of the gospel. With this view he made use of the leisure time he enjoyed, to organize a regular presbyterian congregation in the village of Athens, and to preach in the surrounding country wher- ever opportunities offered. It was a part of his plan, to institute a class among the young people in the village, for studying the Bible, as soon as his circumstances would enable him to accomplish it. During the month of June and early in July, he met several times with the Trustees of the college, and by his prudent, dignified and pleasing deportment, he acquired in a very high de- gree the respect and confidence of that honourable Board. His impressive discourses delivered from time to time in the village, before the citizens and students, had a very happy effect, and inspired universal venera- tion. Indeed "every thing seemed to bid fair for his being in the hand of Providence a rich blessing to the state of Georgia." The commencement in the college, which, according to a standing rule, took place on the last Wednesday of July, 1817, was an interesting season. The following account of this transaction, communicated by the Rev. Dr. John Brown, former president of the college, is both appropriate and pleasing: — 142 MEMOIRS OF "The commencements in this institution are held on the last Wednesday of July. On the preceding day a commencement sermon is delivered by the presi- dent. Dr. Finley most happily availed himself of this occasion to state to a very numerous and respectable audience, the intimate connexion between the growth of true science and the success of Christianity. His text was, Matt. xxiv. 27 — ' For as the lightning cometh out of the East and shineth even unto the West, so shall the coming of the Son of Man be.' This might be con- sidered as the Doctor's inaugural discourse. He shew- ed in several respects, how the past and present progress of Christian knowledge and Christian morals, was beau- tifully exemplified in the progress of that rapid and lu- minous element, the lightning. The subject was hap- pily chosen, the discourse well prepared, and delivered with great energy. To you, sir, who were so well ac- quainted with the powers of his mind and his irresistible manner, I need say nothing respecting the effect. I need not tell you that every eye was riveted on the speaker — every heart impressed. " The business of the commencement day, he con- ducted with great dignity and with the most perfect ease to himself. Nothing like embarrassment or per- turbation of mind appeared on any occasion. His hap- py art of making the situation of his pupils easy and pleasant, was also manifestly exhibited. Great God ! how deep and how mysterious are thy ways! How strange to us, that a life so useful should not have been spared ! When he fell, what an assemblage of qualifi- cations for filling the presidential chair with credit to himself and advantage to the state, fell with him !" DR. FIVLE1. 143 The season of commencement having been agreeably d through, the business determined on for the en- suing vacation took possession of Dr. Finley's mind, and nothing could attract his attention from it. "In augenda, festinat et obruitur, re." On the subject of this tour Dr. Brown writes in the following judicious and interesting manner : — "Had Dr. Finley been more indulgent to himself and less ardent in his wishes for the prosperity of the institu- tion, he would have spent the six weeks vacation which ensued after the commencement, in the enjoyment of ease with his family and little circle of friends in Athens and its vicinity. But his solicitude that the Trustees might be able to meet engagements which he expected would be made by the gentleman who had gone on for the purchase of books, induced him to volunteer in the business of soliciting benefactions. \\ r ith this object in view, he visited the counties of Jackson, Oglethorpe, Wilks, Hancock, Green and Morgan. Some of his friends attempted to apprise him of the danger of leaving so healthy a spot as Athens, and undertaking fatigue and exposure during the sickly season, and indeed while a bilious epidemic was considerably prevalent in some of the lower counties ; but his mind could not be diverted from its favourite object. On this tour he was very successful in acquiring benefactions to the funds of the university, but imbibed the seeds of a disease that cut short his useful labours, and bereaved the institution of so valuable an acquisition, in the very dawn of its pros- perity. He had been abuut two months in college, and in about two months more he slept in the arms of his Redeemer," 144 MEMOIRS OF One paragraph in a communication from my honour- able correspondent, Col. Clayton, before referred to, so fully confirms the above representation of his excellent friend, and so happily describes the outlines and inci- dents of this eventful tour, that I shall present it in his own words. "Although the necessary arrangements were made and the agents appointed to give efficiency to this scheme, yet such was the eager solicitude of Dr. Fin- ley, at every delay which interposed itself between his plans and his hopes, that he descended from the dignified station of his office, to volunteer his services in the un- gracious task of courting public gratuity, and subjecting himself to all the incidents of chagrin, that are known usually to accompany that delicate engagement. Ac- cordingly he commenced his tour the latter part of Ju- ly, which is the beginning of the sickly season in that state, and although in the short compass which he made, he had the satisfaction to have his most sanguine expect- ations realized, as to the generous spirit of the people of Georgia and their attachment to their university, and that his own views of their benevolence were not un- founded ; yet the knowledge of these valuable facts was obtained by a sacrifice far above their value : for in this tour the fatal sickness was contracted, that bereaved so- ciety of one of its brightest ornaments." While performing this journey, a variety of objects, all connected with the great end contemplated, occupi- ed Dr. Finley's attention. He did not here, even in the midst of secular concerns, for a moment forget his character as an ambassador of the Prince of peace. On this point the following observations of Col. Clayton. will be found appropriate and satisfactory : — DR. FINLEY. 145 " lie returned home on the 8th of September, after an absence of six weeks from his family, in which time he had been arduously and unceasingly engaged in solicit- ing private contributions in furtherance of his design, and, that his useful labours might not be confined to one object, he availed himself of every opportunity of shedding abroad the light of those divine truths of which he had been so long a faithful depository, and from whom it had so often emanated with such divine effect. In this short period, by day and by night, in a season peculiarly unfriendly to mental exertion, he preached sixteen sermons. His constant bodily employment, un- der almost a vertical sun, exposed to heat and wet, his mind seriously and anxiously engaged, with a constitu- tion and habits unaccustomed to the climate, joined to an unusual prevalence of disease, to have escaped indis- position would indeed have been miraculous. When therefore he reached home, he felt the usual symptoms of an attack, but flattering himself that the languor of his feelings had been produced by excessive fatigue, he unfortunately relied too much upon a state of rest for relief, and omitted such precautionary applications as might have averted the impending blow." At this period the Presbytery of Hopewell which em- braces this district of the church, held its sessions at a village considerably distant from Athens. Dr. Finley's extreme anxiety to enjoy an interview, form an ac- quaintance, and establish a regular connexion with that ecclesiastical body, induced him to set out to attend its meeting on the fourth day after his arrival at home from the former tour. In relation to this subject, Dr. Brown writes in the following manner: — 19 146 MKMOIR8 OF "It was on the close of this tour that he met with his brethren in the ministry, the members of the Pres- bytery of Hopewell, in sessions at Madison, in Morgan county. He became a member of that reverend body on the 5th day of September. 1 e was received with great cordiality by his clerical friends, and they would have been very happy in administering to his comfort and support in his important office as president of the university. Few of his friends have more sensibly felt, or more sincerely lamented his early removal, than the members of the Presbytery of Hopewell. It is the usu- al practice with this presbytery to have preaching on every day during their sessions, and to close with the administration of the holy sacramental supper, on the Sabbath day. A great number of people attended this meeting. It was a very solemn occasion, and Dr. Fin- ley appeared to enjoy it exceedingly. He preached sev- eral times during the meeting, and attempted to preach on the Sabbath morning, but was not able to do it. In the evening he was better, and after night preached a very solemn and interesting discourse, from these words of our Saviour, It is finished. On Monday evening he got home to his family in Athens: complained of ex- treme languor and lowness of spirits: on Wednesday he attended the funeral of a person in whom he felt consid- erable interest, and a very deep expression was obser- ved in his countenance while a neighbouring clergyman was making some appropriate observations at the grave." Col. Clayton most justly observes that " Dr. Finley, too anxious to fill up the measure of his usefulness, would not suffer the only remedy he had chosen to mit- igate the force of his symptoms, to have its full effect :" DK. KIXF.EY. 14? for before repose has had an opportunity to produce the desired relief from lassitude of body and depression of mind, he engages in some new service, he exposes him- self to some new hardship. In conformity with which, Dr. Brown, after describing his indisposition while at- tending the Presbytery, and his exhausted condition af- ter his return home, proceeds to say : " On Friday, though still unwell, he set out to attend a sacramental meeting at the distance of about twenty miles. This meeting had been deferred for some time with the expectation of enjoying the company and as- sistance of Dr. Finley. Here again his exertions were beyond his strength, i On Saturday he preached a most excellent sermon from Hcb. xii. 22, 23, 244-' But ye are come unto Mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels ; to the general assembly and church of the first-born which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.' I know not whether to call this his own funeral sermon. The view which he took of the light in which the gospel represents the things of the eternal world, and the familiar acquaintance which he appeared to have with them, seemed scarcely con- sistent with a longer continuance in this. He saw with solemn delight in the countenances of his hearers the effect which preaching produced, and was encouraged to attempt it again on the Sabbath : but although the in- troductory exercises were performed by another, he was scarcely able to go through with a short discourse, until he had to retire for rest. On Monday he came 148 MEMOIRS OF home. On Tuesday he lingered about the house, and on Wednesday he was taken clown on the bed from which he never arose. I was abroad during his illness, and returned just in time to attend one of the most solemn funerals I ever witnessed." The circumstances of Dr. Finley's sickness and death so far communicated to the writer, will be presented to the reader, principally in the same words in which they were received. The peculiar character of his disease which partook of bilious and typhus symptoms rendered conversation extremely difficult and painful to him. In the commencement of his sickness he considered his re- covery doubtful. Soon after he was taken, a friend was called upon to assist Dr. Finley in settling his affairs, and in making a disposition, by will, of the property which he had acquired by his great industry and econo- my. As is usual on such occasions, his friend asked him if any particular direction should be given respecting the manner of his burial. With a smile on his counte- nance, his hand on his breast, and his eyes turned to- wards heaven — " Oh no" — he replied, " I care not how they put me away; I know I shall get up safe." At the close of a day, early in his sickness, he observ- ed to a friend, that "notwithstanding it had beenapain- ful day, it had been to him a very interesting one, as his views of the plan of salvation had been soul-refreshing; there was nothing of ecstacy in them, but solid peace and comfort." At another time he observed to a friend who inquired respecting his state, "that he had spent a delightful day : his views of the plan of salvation were so clear, that if it were not for his wife and family, he had no desire to get well." DR. FINLBY. 149 A communication received during Dr. Finlcy's ill- ness, from the Secretary of the Colonization Society es- tablished at Washington, giving information of its brightening pi icl -, greatly refreshed his languid spir- it, and forced from him expressions and manifestations of peculiar satisfaction. It is much to be regretted that Dr. Finley's observations in this trying hour, on the subject of colonizing- the people of colour, which, next to the plan of salvation for sinners, had occupied his mind for years, more than any other subject, could not be distinctly heard and recollected. Col. Clayton, who attended the Doctor's dying bed, writes in the following interesting manner : — " In all his conversations during his illness, he never lost an opportunity to impress upon his friends and fam- ily some sacred truth, and would often make his illness contribute to that holy purpose. " Oh ! my friend," he would say, " all flesh is grass;" and then, with a calm- ness and tranquillity known only to the bosom of the truly pious, would he enforce the necessity of an ever present recollection of that solemn fact. The last Sab- bath before his death, as if unwilling to leave the world without making a last effort to lead a valued friend into the paths of peace, and at the same time to give the most convincing proof of his own resignation, he earnestly requested that friend to read to his congregation the af- fecting sermon of Doctor Blair, on the subject of death, from this text — ' Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me : thy rod and thy stafT they comfort me.' " Another correspondent writes in the following words : "On the tenth day, his disorder took a favourable turn, and we all thought him convalescent. After this, J5U MEMOIRS OF I believe, he never realized his danger, until the day previous to his decease. Indeed a general infatuation prevailed with respect to his death, we felt his life so important to the cause of religion, literature and his family — but He who raises up the means, knows the proper time to lay aside. A lethargy from which it was not possible to rouse him for more than a few min- utes at a time, made it impossible for him to communi- cate his views and feelings to his friends or family. A few hours before his death, beginning to realize his end to be approaching, I inquired of him if his mind was comfortable, and if his views were clear. He answered with much sweetness and composure, 'that it was as much so as his extreme sickness and faintness would ad- mit.' We awakened him several times through the night. A few words only he was able to say, before he Avould fall asleep. About one o'clock I went to him and inquired how he felt. He said he was much revi- ved, and perhaps might yet be able to recover ; ex- pressed a desire, if it was the Lord's will, that he might yet live for the sake of his wife and dear children. This was but the last effort of expiring nature. In an hour after he awoke, almost suffocated — called for air — said he was going. His lips moved for some few se- conds, as we supposed in prayer. He then sunk into a state of total insensibility, in which he lay nearly two hours, and then with a gentle sigh breathed out his soul into the bosom of his Saviour. The last hour of his life was most interesting indeed. The joy of his soul illu- mined his countenance, and rendered it the most inter- esting object I had ever beheld. The very place ap- peared to be san'.-tified by the presence of the Saviour ^nd the spirits of the dear departed saints who had been UK. FINL£r. 10 { given to him as seals of Lis ministry, appeared to be waiting to be the crowns of his rejoicing." The reflections of a correspondent may here with propriety be introduced : — " What consolation have not the friends of Br. Finley experienced from his passage through this trying test! With what firmness did he sustain his sickness! How sensible of his end, and how resigned to the stroke ! So comfortable, as he expressed himself, were his views of a future state, that, save the ties of his family, he had not a wish to remain connected with the cares of life." Dr. Finley once very piously and solemnly observed in conversation with a pious friend, that "it sometimes pleased God to enter into a very sore dealing with fami- lies and even with those of his own people."* The dis- pensation of G< d in his providence towards the author of that observation and his family, in the event we are here contemplating, furnishes an additional and mourn- ful illustration of the truth and importance of that re- mark. The removal of Dr. Finley to Georgia and his sudden death present an instance of darkness and mystery, in the government of God, awful and impenetrable to the view of mortals. When we consider the importance and usefulness of the station he occupied at Basking Ridge — the numerous, enterprising and beneficent plans, in which he was engaged — the multiplied difficulties which were encountered in his translation to the south — the * This conversation toot place at the house of Col John Neilson, New Bruns- wick, several )e :rs ago, and was intended for the comfort of that excellent man and his amiable and pious consort, who were then in deep affliction and mourn- ing for the sudden death of a beloved son, at Batavia in the East Indies; infer- ination of which event had rec«ntlv been received. 152 MEMOIRS OF many peculiar and prominent qualifications Dr. Finley possessed for the office to which he was called — the fa- vourable impression and the successful beginning, he had made in his new sphere of duty — the pressing de- mands of the interests of science and religion, in Geor- gia, for the services of such a man — the pleasing pros- pect of eventual success that presented itself — when we consider these things and take into view, the size and circumstances of his family, the number and tender age of his children, our emotions can find utterance most suitably in the humble and adoring language of the Apos- tle, Romans ii. 33 — " O, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God ! — how unsearchable are his judgments and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord ? or who hath been his counsellor I — Of him and through him and to him, are all things : to whom be glory forever, Amen." The public mind in Georgia was deeply impressed,* and agitated by the information of Dr. Finley's death. * In illustration of this fact, the following extract is introduced from a letter written by ttie Rev Mr. Shepard, 'missionary in Georgia, to the Editor of the Boston Recorder,— published in the " Religious Remembrancer" Philadelphia, November'/!), 1817. " Washington, (Geo ) October 14, 1817. " About two weeks after, we were again clothed in sackcloth at the melancholy tidings of the death of Dr Finley, President of the University of fieorL'ia. No death was ever more deeply felt, or more generally lamented, in this region, than this. To this state the loss spems irreparable The success which attend- ed the fewmonthsof his presidency, gave us the most animating hope that Provi- dence had designed him as an instrument for advancing the literary and religious state of Georgia. His plans of operation were laid with much skill and executed with a zeal highly becoming a man in so important a station it was in n tour through the lower counties, for the purpose of soliciting donations, to procure a library for the college, that he took the seeds of ihe disease which terminated his valuable life A da k cloud noi r bangs over the aiTiir? of the seminary : but vre know it will soon be succeeded by a clearer sky. We know that Fie whose ' king- MR. FINLKY. 153 Expressions of disappointment and grief, at this event, fell from every mouth. The painful impulse was expe- rienced fromAthensto New-York, but it was most poign- antly felt in his native state. Dr. Finley's death was announced to the public in Georgia, in the following handsome and honourable obituary notice. " Died on Friday Morning, the 3d inst. the Rev. Rob- ert Finley, D. D. President of the University of Geor- gia, after a painful illness of eighteen days. His sick- ness which was of the most violent bilious character, he unfortunately contracted, during a tour through several of the lower counties, on professional business, in Au- gust ; he returned home with the fatal indisposition which has imposed so distressing a wound upon all the relations of society. "Whether we consider the death of this truly pious man, in a private or public view, the causes of regret multiply upon us, with such successive and increasing- rigour as to overwhelm the mind with the most bitter feelings of anguish. He has left an amiable wife and dom ruleth over all,' will perfect his own work, in his own time and in his own manner. " The rising state ofliterature in this country, no doubt will induce the Board to renew their exertions for the prosperity of their rising seminary, in selectii>« .mother man without delay, to Gil the important station now left vacant." In a fiiendly letter received from the south, bearing date April 2d, 1818, I find the following passage, which will probably gratify curiosity and impart pleas- ure to readers concerned for the welfare of this bereaved institution, viz : — "The Trustees of Franklin Collpgebave lately given a call to (he Rev. Mr. Eeman, a native of Vermont, who has been some yearsa resident of Georgia, aod has had a large and very respectable school establishment at Mount Zion. .Mr Bemau is said to possess great energy, fine talents, and handsome address, to warm piety. The public are much pleased with the appointment, i hoped and expected he will accept it." 20 154 MEMOIRS O* nine children to mourn his afflictive loss. This family have recently been brought from the bosom of their friends and reiations, and by the melancholy dissolution of its head, are now cast upon a land of strangers. Con- nected with the fortunes of the lamented deceased, they have forsaken some of the dearest ties, which can arise from a love of country, the early scenes of nativity, or the liveliest sympathies of feeling. United with him, ■whose whole energy of soul, was bent to the accomplish- ment of an all-important service to this state, they, by the separation occasioned by this awful dispensation, are now left friendless and unprotected upon the grati- tude of that state. " In the institution, which he had so lately been called to preside over, he commenced the duties of his office, with such a prompt and ardent zeal, so unwearied in his exertions and so constant in his devoted care of all its concerns, as afforded the most certain promise of suc- cess and the no less gratifying assurance, that under his administration it was about to raise its languishing head. To the deep regret of this country, he has left the insti- tution once more to the dubious issue of wayward con- tingencies. / " Jn contemplating the private course of Dr. Finley, the mind has a field to rest upon, lovely in prospect, unbro- ken in surface, and endless in variety. ,' If the most fer- vent and durable piety, can give dignity and respect to character ; if equanimity of temper, steady firmness of principle, and the most unbending rectitude of conduct, can secure to pure and worthy motives, their merited es- teem : — if the most inflexible benevolence of heart, con- stantly directed to the advancement of charitable insti- tutions, the relief of misfortune, the diffusion of happi- DR. FINLEV. 155 ncs?, and the increase of pious contentment, has not lost its influence upon human actions, the life and death oi this good man must offer an example full of peace and consolation to his family, comfort and resignation to his friends, and the most lasting usefulness to society. " The church has sustained a loss of one of its firmest pillars : in all the pursuits of his life, those ceased to be objects of interest, when they ceased to subserve the pu poses of religion. To a mind warmed and animated by those hopes, which devotion contemplates shall sur- vive the stroke of death, he joined the soundest dictates of sober reflection, the cool and unshaken possession of judgment and the open and reconciling stamp of sinceri- ty. From the pulpit he was accustomed to utter, gra- ced with the beauty and armed with the energy of the most impressive eloo^ence, those eternal truth?, which while they stand on " the Rock of ages," were winged with irresistible effect, when delivered with his masterly and affecting management, and never failed to dignify the heart, elevate the affections, and heighten those dread expectations which rest in such mysterious won 7 der beyond the limits of time." To exhibit the sentiments that prevailed in Georgia on this occasion, the following document, with which the writer has been obligingly furnished, is presented to the public. " Milledgeviile, Senate Chamber, November ^2, 1817. "On motion of Mr. Elliot — Resolved unanimously, by the Senatus Aeademicus,* that the lamented death of the * The body distinguished by this name, is composed of a highly respectable committee, appointed annually, by the legislature of Georgia, for the purpose of exercising a general superintendence over all the literary institutions in that state. Ij6' MEMOIRS O* late President Finley, having deprived Franklin College of an useful and highly important officer, the community of a conspicuous member, and his afflicted family of its only guide and support — The Senatus Academicus en- tertains a just sense of the exalted worth of the deceased, and most unfeignedly mingle their regrets with those of the bereaved family for their common loss. And as a testimony of respect for the memory of Doctor Finley, they do strongly recommend to the Board of Trustees to continue the salary of that officer to the end of the quarter in which he died, and to offer to his family the use of the President's house and its appendages until the same shall be required for the accommodation of his successor " And it is further unanimously resolved, that the eld- est son of the late Dr. Finley be educated, at Franklin College, free of any expense, so far as relates to any charges for tuition and that a copy of these resolutions be handed by the Secretary to Mrs. Finley." The following extract from the minutes of the Board of Trustees in Franklin college will be read with pleas- ure. "Athens, Franklin College, December 12, 181 7. " On motion of Mr. Clayton — Resolved unanimously, by the Board of Trustees that they feel with full force, the testimony of respect offered by the Senatus Academi- cus, to the memory of the late president of the universi- ty, and do most cheerfully acquiesce in the measures re- commended by that body, as demonstrative of their veneration for the lamented deceased and their regard for his respectable family : And in addition to those measures, this Board further unanimously resolved, that dk. pinm:t. 15T the education in manner recommended to be bestowed on the eldest son of the Rev. Dr. Finley be extended to all his sons, and that the sum of two hundred dollars be appropriated for the purpose of erecting over his grave a suitable tomb-stone, commemorative of his wor f h and services ; and that the Secretary of the Board hand a copy of this resolution to Mrs. Finley. "Resolved, that the prudential committee be author- ized to sell, in such manner as they may think proper, any lots in the town of Athens, already laid off, or which may be laid off hereafter, in pursuance of a former res- olution of this Board, passed the 31 st of July last, first re- serving to Mrs. Finley, widow of the late Rev. Dr. Finley, any two lots which she may choose out of said range, one being a front, and the other a back lot ; and that the President pro tempore be authorized to make her a title to the same. " True extract from the minutes. " JOHN HODGE, Secretary." The following letter exhibits the subject of these me- moirs in a very interesting point of view. No charac- ter could be more properly applied to him than that which he here sustains — the prompt and affectionate comforter of the afflicted. As this judicious, pious and tender communication appears likely to be highly grat- ifying and extensively useful, it is inserted with great, pleasure, and with many thanks to the excellent lady who first experienced its consoling power, and now, through this channel, bestows it on the public for their instruction and comfort in sorrow : — 158 MEMOIRS O* "Basking Ridge, April 14, 1815. " Madam, "Mrs. V D spent a few minutes with us yesterday, alter our worship on the day of national thanksgiving, and gave us the afflicting information of the numerous and heavy trials with which it has pleased the Lord to try you. Your afflictions yet continue, and you perhaps begin to think they will never terminate. The ways of God are full of wonder, and he often makes the cloud his chariot, and the thick cloud his pavilion. His providence, which for a season appeared clear and bright, is at other times surrounded with an impenetra- ble gloom. But let us not despair. He remains the same, a God of sovereign mercy, and we through the cloud may believe his grace, secure of his compassion. God is love, nor can he cease to be so. Your afflictions appear to me to be more than commonly great, but yet not so great as the Almighty hand, which is able to sus- tain you. One dear babe is withdrawn from your bo- som, and has taken off a little portion of your heart. But it is well with the child.* Dedicated to the Lord, * To illustrate the views of Dr. Finley in regard to the very interesting sub- ject here involved,— to exhibit the basis on which he founds the sentiment here advanced it is well with the child— and to place this precious article of Christian faith in a light at once cleai and consoling to the afflicted, the following extract from his sermon on the benefits of baptism, &c. is introduced :— See 2d general head of discourse— 1th particular, page '.:0th of this sermon "The last blessing now to be mentioned, connected with baptism, is, that it conveys the promises of God. 'whose are the promises.' Among these stand most conspicuous the promises: that those who, being baptised, die in infancy, should be saved : and that the possession of the seal should impart to the possessor the power of conveying both the seal nnd its benefits to the rising generation. Cod commanded the seal of his promise to be put on the bodies of infant children, and at the earliest possible period : saying, ' 1 will be a God o 'hy seed.' To convey and secure this promise to Abraham, God ordered the seal of his cove- DK. FINLXY. 16b presented to him, a living sacrifice, faith may follow it to heaven, and contemplate it among the happy spir- its. She will not come to you, and why should you wish her back to this place of sorrow and sighing and pain ? The Lord has need of her in another state, and if the Lord requires who would refuse ? I have often thought that the counsels of God may require something of the same variety, which we observe in this state, for our after condition : and that therefore it is requisite that some babes, some tender and some full grown youth, some in the vigour of life and some white with age, should enter into heaven. " Your other dear child will, I trust, be spared to you, to be a comfort to you while you have need of earthly nant to be put upon the bodies of the infant seed of the father of the faithful. ' He gave Abraham the covenant of circumc-sion, and so Abraham begat Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day.' Acts vii. 3. What are we to suppose is nieau by the promise, ' I will be a God to thy seed.' Are we to think that it meant nothing more, than that in general, God would take care of Abraham's children, as he had already watched over and blessed him? Or are we to be- lieve that this promise was of tuch a nature that it conveyed some valuable bless- ing to every individual who became a subject of it ! It appears to be the fair con- struction, that wiien God promised, saying, I will be a God to thy seed, he did engage himself to every individual who should receive the seal of the promise. And is there anyway in which he caD manifest himself to be the God of those, who by the counsels of his inGuite wisdom, are allotted to die in infancy, but by taking them to himself in glory p To take them from their cradle to his heavenly life, is all that lie cau do for them, as their God. I mean not hereto decide unfavoura- bly on the case of those who die in infancy without being bapthed. But I <'o mean to exalt the grace of God, and the efficacy of his sealed promise : And that this is the meaning, at least in part, of the promise, ' I will be a God to thy =eed,' is much conliimed by the consideration, that as God suffered the seed of man to perish, by his despising the threatening of God, so he bath, in restoring the ruins of that fall, secured the salvation of the dying infant, by connecting it with the promise made to the parent " These are the little babes, says Dr Watts, who just enter into the world to die out of it, and who are saved from everlasting death, merely by the spreading veil of lh" covenant of gr-icr, drn-xn over them bv other destitute parts of that great continent. 24 186 MEMOIHS, &.C most beyond his means: and of his liberality of feeling and intention, towards the colonization society, we are furnished with an honourable testimony, in the letter from my correspondent at Washington. His attendance on the judicatories of the church was punctual and faithful. In most of the important trans- actions of the church, he bore a conspicuous part. Modest and unassuming, more ready to hear than to speak, he seldom engaged deeply in public debates. There were occasions, however, on which his zeal pre- dominated over his diffidence, and forced him into dis- cussion. At these times, he displayed, both in appear- ance and address, his characteristic plainness, dignity and power. On the whole, Dr. Finley's rise and eminence in his profession, must be ascribed to the joint influence of his own talents and exertions, and to the benignant care and assistance of Divine Providence. He had no family in- fluence to bring him forward and recommend him to public regard : no powerful and devoted friends, to pa- tronize and promote him : no patrimonial fortune, nor parental laurels, on which to repose. The native acti- vity and vigour of his mind were extraordinary, and the ardent impulses of his soul to be good and to do good, stimulated his powers, prescribed his course, and con- ducted him to true greatness and true glory. " Vitiis nemo sine nascitur: opliraus ille est, Qui minimis urgetux." Hor. S3®^H^o NOTE A. DANGERS OF SENDING SONS TOO EARLY TO COLLEGE. Placing sons in college, at this very early age, is ex- tremely imprudent and hazardous. Very few experi- ments of this kind, progress and result so happily as that before us, even with the advantage of a faithful father's care. It is obvious, that when the pupil's mind is feeble and immature, his capacity must be so circumscribed, that he cannot proceed in his studies with so much hon- our, ease and advantage to himself, viewing the case in the most favourable light, as he would after a few years more, occupied in preparatory study, in establishing habits of application, and in acquiring a wider compass of general improvement. Parents and guardians, as well as the students, are great losers, in most cases, by the very early introduction of pupils into college, inas- much as they do not obtain so great an amount of solid benefit, as they probably would, by a little more delay, to remunerate them for their attention, anxiety and ex- pense. But the morals of youth are exposed to dangers incal- culably great and serious, by their being placed in col- lege, at this tender and inexperienced age, from under the eye of their parents and teachers,* among a promis- * Imbprbis Juvenis, tandem rustode remote, Cereus in vitium flecti, monitorihus asper, milium tardus provisor, prodigus seris Hon. An. poet. 199 DANGERS OP SENDING SONS cuous multitude of youth, collected from almost every part of our land, and possessing every variety of barac- ter, principle and habit. This is believed to be the case, even with regard to the best regulated colleges in this country. A government, which, in its administration, is enforced principally, if not exclusively, by moral and prudential motives, and which, in all its operations, re- lies for its success and utility, on the honour, ingenu- ousness and emulation of its subjects, is not calculated for children and buys. In general, no previous instruc- tion and care of parents and teachers can, without the special grace of God, so firmly establish youth in good principles and habits, as to fortify them against the se- ductions of vice, at this early age, and justify their being placed in a situation in which temptation, in its most captivating forms, constantly addresses them, and in which they are left, as their only or principal security, to the genuineness and stability of their moral princi- ples and feelings. Sound policy, and prudent regard to the real welfare of colleges, should prompt their officers to discourage the application of very young students for admission. It is not to be apprehended that they will immediately become ringleaders in turbulence and disorder; but it is reasonable to suppose that they may constitute the materials, with which the really corrupt and disorgan- izing commence their tumultuous operations in resisting government and order. Should they resist or escape, for a season, the danger from this source, to which, from their inexperience and unsuspecting temper, they are peculiarly exposed ; from the length of time they are to remain in college, they enjoy every opportunity ne- cessary to render them, before they complete their TOO EARLY TO COLLEGE. 191 course, inveterately expert and sagacious in every cor- rupt and destructive art and practice. When we con- sider, that the pupils placed in college thus prematurely, in general, are such as possess the finest minds — as have made the best proficiency in learning — as are attached to the most wealthy, intelligent and honourable families — and as afford the brightest prospects of success in stu- dy, of doing credit to their friends and to the insti- tution, and of usefulness to the state, the church or the world — how lamentable is it, that they should be placed in jeopardy at this critical and interesting moment! Were the great mass of the students farther advanced in years, and more mature in understanding, it is highly probable that the convulsions and revolutions experi- enced recently in the colleges and universities of the United States, would much less frequently occur. In support of the ideas here suggested, we might, from personal knowledge and observation, recur to many mournful instances, in which amiable and interesting boys, who came from home very young, giving evidence of excellent disposition and virtuous tendency of mind, of good domestic government and scholastic instruction, have soon, on entering college and mingling with the promiscuous crowd, changed the purity and simplicity of their manners, become indolent in study, extravagant in dress and expenditure, addicted to vice, and a sacri- fice to the imprudence and precipitance of those who superintended and directed their movements in life. What then, it may be asked, is to be done with boys, who have been put to the studies preparatory to college very early, and are found fit to become members, in a low class, at ten, twelve, thirteen years of age? Let them be prepared, in a private and less exposed situation, 192 DANGERS OF SENDING SONS, &.C. for a higher class in college : let them be made to pay much more attention than is usual in academies, to Eng- lish studies, arithmetic, book-keeping, letter- writing composition, geography, history: let them study the French, Italian and Hebrew languages, Jewish, Chris- tian, Grecian and Roman antiquities: and let them prose- ecute the classical studies to a greater extent than is com- mon, by reading the whole of those authois, a part of which is ordinarily esteemed sufficient, and by studying carefully several Roman and Grecian writers not usually read at all, such as SatiraB Juvenalis, Cicero de amicitia, de natura, de oratore, Deorum, &c. of the former, and Thucydides, Longinus, &c. of the latter. NOTE B. ADVANTAGE OF TEACHING TO YOUNG MEN. Dr. Witherspoon, experienced and enlightened on every subject, was deeply convinced of the usefulness of this employment to a young man, and recommended it to Mr. Finley and to many others, with great earnest- ness. Every teacher is himself a learner, for some time at least, in the common language of the country, " he is going to school." It being his duty to explain clearly and communicate promptly to others, to judge of their performances and correct their errors, he is impelled to view accurately, to investigate deeply and to make him- self master of the author, language or science, which he teaches. By teaching what he does know, he acquires it more thoroughly and renders it familiar to his mind and permanent in his recollection. Not only does he improve in science, but, what is un- speakably important, he gains knowledge of the human character and forms habits of exertion and of business, by this employment. A school is a little world — a teach- er is an observer of all that takes place within it. With- in his narrow limits and in the character and conduct of the small company that surrounds him from day to day, he may see partially exhibited, the talents, designs, pas- sions and machinations of all descriptions of person^. 25 194 ADVANTAGES OF TEACHING who display themselves on the theatre of life. On the one side of this little community, he sees integrity and virtue, humbly and diligently devoted to (heir object : — On another, ambition and restlessness, con- triving, fretting and struggling. Soon the forward, deceitful, arrogant temper will be discovered, assuming its plausible exterior and claiming the high considera- tion due to its pretended merits. Here strong passion, turbulence and noise will manifest themselves — there artful, lurking, insidious vice. Here sluggishness and shameless falsehood — -there dulness and imbecility. In one place will be exhibited the certain success of pa- tient and persevering application with moderate powers — in another the lamentable deficience of unsteady ef- forts, even with the noble capacity and enterprise of genius. The collisions of interest ; the conflicts of pas- sion and power; the persecutions and injuries of un- resisting meekness and merit — are soon and frequently referred to the teacher as an umpire. He must hold his court — investigate character — pry into motive — hear evidence —graduate crime on the scale of guilt — pro- nounce sentence — inflict punishment — prescribe reme- dies for disorder — suggest and enforce motives to obedi- ence adapted to the dispositions and tempers of all who are concerned in the passing scene. After a course of employment and experience, like this, the young man goes out into the world to meet, on a larger scale, the same characters, tempers, arts and vices, which he has seen exhibited in his little commonwealth. He meets scarcely any thing new — any thing which he is not prepared to expect and encounter. This knowl- edge is essential to true greatness of character and em- inent success in the world. The earlier it is acquired, the more immediate, easy and rapid is the progress to- TO YOUNG MEN. l9/> wards distinction in honour and usefulness. Other means* will eventually secure the advantages which have been suggested, as arising out of this occupation, but by a much more slow and devious process. History expos- es the springs and windings of human life. But the method of acquiring- practical qualifications for useful- ness in the world, here referred to, considered by itself, unites more advantages, is more immediate and extensive in the benefits it produces, than any other separate measure that can be suggested, and probably, in must cases, more than all others that could be employed by a literary youth. — The kind of discipline and drilling * That, resorted to, in early life bv the illustrious Virginian patriot and ora- tor, Patrick Henry, of which his eloquent biographer, William Wirt, Esq. has giv- en us an interesting detail, in his splendid view of that great man, published at Philadelphia 1817, pages 9 and lO, was happily successful — ' He found another relief too, in the frequent opportunities now afforded him of pursuing his favour- ite study of the human character. The character of every customer underwent his scrutiny .- and that not with reference either to the integrity or solvency of the individual, in which one would suppose that Mr Henry would feel himself most interested : but in relation to the structure of his mind the general cast of his opinions, the motives and principles which influenced his actions, and what may be called the philosophy of his character." The account of Mr. Henry's manner, stated by Mr. Wirt, is this — " That whenever a company of his cus- tomers met in the store, which frequently happened on the last day of the week, and were, themselves, sufficiently gay and animated to talk and act as nature prompted, without concealment, without reserve, he would take no part in their discussions, but listen with a silence as deep and Ulenlive, as if under the influence of some potent charm If on the contrary, they were dull and silent, he would, without betraying his drift, task himself to set thein in motion, and excite them to remark, collision and exclamation. He was peculiarly delighted with comparing their characters, and ascertaining how they would, severally, act, in given situa- tions. With tliis view he would state an hypothetic case, and call for their opin- ions, one by one, as to the conduct which would be proper in it. If they differed, he would demand their reasons, and enjoy highly, the debates in which he would thus involve them By multiplying and varying those imaginary cases at pleasure, lie ascertained the general course of human opinion, and formed for himself, as it were, a graduated scale of the motives and conduct, which arc natural to man." 196 ADVANTAGES OP TEACHING, &C. that the mind is daily subject to in this business, strength- ens and improves all its faculties. Could young gen- tlemen be induced, after completing their collegiate course, to spend a few years in this occupation, the public would be benefitted by it, as well as them- selves. Grammar schools would be increased in num- ber as well as improved in quality : and the means of education more extensively enjoyed through the coun- try, in general. The principles here advanced and the practice re- commended, derive importance and support from the fact, that a number of the principal characters in our country — in the pulpit — at the bar — in the practice of medicine — on the tribunals of justice — in the first ranks of military honour — and at the very head of depart- ments in government : — have in early life, participated in the labours and benefits of instructing and governing seminaries of learning. And on the whole, from mature consideration of the subject, it is believed, that this em- ployment, if continued sufficiently, has such an influence on the mind, habit and character of an intelligent, judi- cious and reflecting young man, as to secure to him pe- culiarly solid and valuable advantages from it. NOTE C. SKETCH OF REV. JAMES FRANCIS ARMSTRONG. The following brief sketches of the Rev. Mr. James Francis Armstrong, were published soon after his de- cease, in a respectable paper printed weekly in Tren- ton. The writer sincerely regrets his not being able to devote more time and attention to the subject of this biographical notice ; a subject which will long be in- teresting and dear to the members of the Presbytery of New-Brunswick, to the congregations of Trenton and Lawrence, and to a very numerous, and highly respect- able circle of relatives and acquaintances. SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF THE REV. JAMES FRANCIS ARMSTRONG, LATE PASTOR OF THE PRESBVTER1AN CHURCH IN TRENTON, Who departed this life on the 19th day of January, 1816. He was born in the year 1T50, in the township of West Nottingham, in the present state, then province of Maryland. His father, who was a respectable elder in the church, and an eminently pious man, early placed him at a classical school in Fag's Manor, under the di- 198 SKETCH OF rection of the reverend and deservedly distinguished Mr. John Blair, afterwards Vice-President and Profess- or of Divinity, in the college of New-Jersey. Mr. Armstrong, in this elementary stage of his education, was marked as a youth of prompt talents, and promising hopes. After having passed through the usual course of the classics at that seminary, he was removed to the College of New-Jersey, in the fall of the year 1771, and entered the junior class. He was at that time a young man of very sprightly parts, and passed his examinations with reputation. Buthis father being peculiarly solicitous for his moral improvement, induced the President, the Rev. Dr. Witherspoon, to receive him as a member of his family. Here he contracted that profound reve- rence for his venerable preceptor, which marked all his conduct in the college, and was a distinguishing feature in his character, to the latest period of his life. In the year 1773, he was admitted to the degree of bachelor of arts ; and having continued to cultivate the studies of theology, between two and three years longer, he was licensed to preach the gospel, about the com- mencement of the revolutionary war for the existence and independence of the American republic. A zeal- ous friend of his country, he early entered the revolu- tionary army as a chaplain ; and being of a vigorous and athletic constitution, and of great bravery, as well as sincere piety, he served in this arduous war, accord- ing to the demands of duty, or t ■ exigencies of the times, both as an enterprising soldier, and a faithful min- ister of the gospel ; and it was not a little to his honour, that, in the midst of so many scenes of peculiar tempta- tion, he was never ashamed of the gospel of Christ, but came through all its perils and seductions, with a char- REV. J. F. ARMSTRONG. l'Jl* aeter without reproach as a brave citizen, and his holy ministry unstained by any unhallowed conformity to the manners of the world. Having received a cordial invitation to assume the pastoral charge of the Presbyterian church in Trenton, he entered upon it in the year 1780, with the humility and faith of a Christian bishop. Connected with the se- rious duties which this office imposed upon him, he ac- cepted the additional charge of the church at Maiden- head, and in fulfilling the multiplied services of the vine- yard of his Lord, he continued as his health would per- mit, till the period of his death. Towards the decline of life, he was visited with rheumatic affections of un- common severity, occasioned by the arduous services, to which his active spirit exposed him, during his milita- ry career. These he bore with uncommon fortitude, and pious resignation to the will of Heaven. They ne- cessarily created some partial interruptions in his paro- chial obligations. Rut the zeal of his ministerial friends to serve him, contributed to render these interruptions little felt. The warmth of his fraternal affections and his devotion to the service of the church, cheerfully called to his relief, whenever it became necessary, every aid which his brethren, who loved equally the ardour of his piety, and the generous warmth of his friendship, could bestow. The character of his discourses in the pulpit was gen- erally fervent, the principles of his theology orthodox and scriptural. In his friendship he was ardent and sin- cere ; in his piety he was devout, keeping a faithful reg- ister of the religious exercises of his mind for many years; and though firm and established in his own prin- ciples, he embraced with distinguished candour and 200 SKETCH OF charity, all who appeared to be the sincere disciples of his blessed Saviour. Extract from a sermon delivered at the funeral of the Rev. James F Armstrong, late pastor of the presbyterian church in this city by the Rev. Dr. Miller of Princeton. With regard to the reverend and respected brother, whose remains now lie before us, about to be deposited in the house appointed for all living, he is gone beyond the reach of our eulogies and our memorials. He needs not the praise of men. While we bend over his lifeless corpse, with tender and mournful recollections, his disen- thralled and sanctified spirit is enjoying, we humbly trust, the presence and the smiles of his God and Sa- viour. He Avas well known to you all ; to many of you longer and more intimately than to the speaker. There is therefore the less occasion of my dwelling long on the circumstances of his life, or upon his general char- acter. Your departed pastor was a native of the state of Ma- ryland, where he was born in the year 1750. His pa- rents were highly respectable, and in particular eminent for their piety. They trained up this their son in the nurture and admonition of the Lord ; and at a very ear- ly period of life he received those religious impressions, which concurring with the earnest wishes of a pious fa- ther, determined him to consecrate himself to the work of the gospel ministry. After making the usu; i prelimi- nary-acquirements, he entered the college of New-Jer- sey; and having completed the course of study in that institution, he received its honours in the Autumn of the year 1773. REV. J. F. ARMSTRONG. 201 In a short time after leaving college, lie entered on his theological studies under the direction of the vene- rable Dr. Witherspoon, and completed them just about the commencement of the revolutionary war; when, fired with that patriotic ardour, which distinguished him throughout life, he determined to join the army, which was fighting the battles of his country. He accordingly entered it in the capacity of a chaplain ; in which capa- city he served with fidelity and reputation, during the whole of the revolutionary contest. At the close of the war, he formed a matrimonial con- nexion with the family of Robert James Livingston, Esq. of the state of New-York, soon after which he was engaged for more than a year in ministering to the church in Elizabeth-Town, in this state. In the year 1785, the church in this city, which had become, a short time before, vacant by the decease of the Rev. Dr. Spencer, invited him to take the pastoral charge of it, in connexion with that of Maidenhead. Ke accepted the call, and was settled as the pastor of these united congregations, in the course of that year. In 1799, he was elected a trustee of the College of New-Jersey, in which office he continued till his death. And few of the members of that board, as long as he en- joyed a tolerable share of health, were more punctual in their attendance on its meetings, or more ardent in their zeal for the interests of the institution, than your deceased pastor. He had been seven or eight years settled in this place, when he was attacked by that distressing and obstinate disease, which was the burden of all his after life ; and by Avhich a frame, once the most athletic and vigorous, was gradually enfeebled, borne down, and finally 26 202 SKETCH OK brought to the dust. The foundation of this disease was supposed to have been laid, at least in part, by the pri- vations and sufferings which he underwent during his connexion with the army. It is certain, that through the whole of that connexion, his enterprise and bravery led him to encounter, with cheerfulness, and even be- yond what his official duty demanded, every hardship incident to military life. With respect to the character and the success of his labours among you, my brethren, there needs no testi- mony from me. You have seen him, for near thirty years, going in and out before you, labouring with assi- duit)', and during a great part of the time, under the pressure of disease, for your spiritual welfare. You have seen him addressing you with affectionate earnest- ness, when his enfeebled frame was scarcely able to maintain an erect posture in the sacred desk. You have heard him lamenting, in the tenderest terms, his inabili- ty to serve you in a more active manner. And you have seen him manifesting with frequency his earnest desire to promote your best interest, even when weakness com- pelled him to be absent from the solemn assembly. But why enlarge on these topics, before those who knew him so well ? Or why dwell upon points of ex- cellence in his character, which all acknowledged ? The warmth of his friendship,; his peculiar urbanity ; his do- mestic virtues ; his attachment to evangelical truth ; his decided friendliness to vital piety ; his punctuality, as long as he had strength to go abroad, in attending on the judicatories of the church : — these, among the many excellent traits of character exhibited by the pastor of whom you have just taken leave, will no doubt be re- A£V. J. F. ARMSTRON0. 85$ membercd with respect and with mournful pleasure, for a long time to come. More than once have I witnessed, during his weak- ness and decline, not only the anxious exercises of one who watched over the interests of his own soul with a sacred jealousy ; but also the affectionate aspirations of his heart for the eternal welfare of his family and flock. Farewell ! afflicted, beloved man, farewell ! We shall see thee again ! see thee, we trust, no more the pale vic- tim of weakness, disease and death ; but in the image and the train of our blessed Master, and in all the immortal youth and health and lustre of his glorified family! — May it then, O may it then appear, that all thine anxious prayers, and all thine indefatigable labours for the spir- itual benefit of those who were so dear to thine heart, have not been in vain in the Lord ! NOTE D. SKETCH OF REV. GILBERT T. SNOWDEN. Rev. Gilbert Tennent Snowdf.n, was born A. D. 1766. He eirjoyed in a peculiar degree the advantages of early, pious instruction and discipline : and his youth- ful education was of the most thorough and liberal kind. After completing- the course of study preparatory to the sacred office, he was licensed to preach the gospel, by the presbytery of Philadelphia. On the 24th day of November, 1790, he was transferred to the presbytery of New-Brunswick and solemnly ordained, by the same, to the work of the ministry and installed pastor of the congregation of Cranbury. — On the 20th of February, 1797", in the eighth year of his ministry and in the thir- ty-second of his age, his respectable and useful labours, in the church, were closed by death. The following appropriate and elegant sketch, of his character, is ex- tracted from a sermon delivered at his funeral, by the Rev. Dr. Samuel S. Smith, president of the college of New-Jersey; which discourse was afterwards published in Philadelphia, by Messrs. Ormrod and Conrad. " Your pastor has been removed from you, by a sud- den and unexpected stroke of providence, almost in the morning >f life, and the beginning of his usefulness. Young, active, and diligent in the duties of his holy call- ing, I am persuaded he has created a deep and tender 206 Sketch of interest in each of your hearts. And I perceive that, in this event, you mourn the loss, not only of an excel- lent man, and a worthy and respectable minister of the gospel, but of a monitor, a comforter, a friend, and, may I not add notwithstanding his age ? even of a Father in Christ Jesus. " Thebesteulogyof Mr. Gilbert T.Snowden wouldbe a faithful history of himself. I cannot here attempt mi- nutely to trace it. A few only of the prominent features of his character I shall endeavour to sketch. And I shall study to do it with that simplicity and plainness that becomes a narrative of truth. — Early in life, in the studies both of the school and of the college, he discov- ered a promptness of parts, and ardour of mind that pre- saged under a prudent and wise direction, great respect- ability and usefulness, in riper age. Blessed with a pi- ous domestic education, the principles of religion made an early impression on his mind. And notwithstanding the great vivacity of his natural disposition, which so of- ten proves a snare to youth, the restraints of principle, of reason and of conscience, still retained their influ- ence. The same happy principles, under the direction of divine grace, led him eventually to the justesf senti- ments of his duty to God, and to mankind. His deep and earnest concern for the things that belonged to his eternal peace issued in a calm and settled hope in the divine mercy through Jesus Christ. His religion rested on the Rock of ages. And a fervent spirit of pie- ty animated all his private virtues, and his public du- ties. " For a short time after receiving his first degree in the arts, he applied himself to the study of the laws of his country. But inflamed with the love of doing good. KEV. G. T. SKOWDEN. 201 and the desire of consecrating his talents to his Saviour, he relinquished the pursuit of that honourable and use- ful profession, for one that attracted him still more, as being more immediately connected with the glory of his Redeemer, and the immortal interests of his fellow men. An anecdote relative to this subject, which he sometimes repeated to his friends, is, perhaps, not unworthy of being mentioned in this place. His mind being naturally ar- dent and aspiring, he entered on the studies of jurispru- dence and politics with elevated and ambitious views. He pursued them with indefatigable application, and was making such proficiency as promised success to his wishes. At this period, the death of an eminent at- torney who enjoyed great reputation at the bar, and had risen to some of the first honours in his country, struck his mind with one of those trains of reflection which sometimes spring from particular events, and have a great influence on the character and pursuits of life, and which can hardly be accounted for except by a secret agency of Divine Providence. He asked him- self, what now is fame, or wealth, or all the honours and splendours of this world to him who can enjoy them no more? In a few days, all the boasted distinctions among mankind which too often foster vanity and pride, shall be laid in the dust. All that they have been is then nothing, that only is real which they shall be forever. My earthly ambition I see is vain, I will look to higher objects, and give it scope in a boundless and eternal scene — I will seek an inheritance that is uncorrupted, undefilcd and thatfadcth not away — I will aspire to glory only in that heavenly kingdom, where they that arc /vise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and 208 SKETCH OF ever. From that moment he devoted his whole atten- tion to the ministry of the gospel. " To embrace the office of the ministry is, in our coun- try, to abandon the road of civil honours and emolu- ments. It is, when we consider merely the splendours and dignities of the present world, to confine genius and talents to an humble sphere, from which they can never hope to emerge. It is to embrace a voluntary pover- ty,* and, by two contradictory caprices of public opin- ion, to be obliged to maintain the appearance of a cer- tain rank and fortune, and yet be rigidly precluded, ex- cept at the risk of reputation and usefulness, from the means of attaining or improving either. It is one, and no inconsiderable proof, of a sincere and zealous piety in your departed pastor, that he renounced the pros- pects to which he was invited, in pursuing the first pro- fession he had chosen ; and that he devoted to the ser- vice of Christ, his Master, a genteel and easy patrimony, derived from a parent whose industry had procured for him an honourable affluence. But you, my brethren, had other proofs of his sincerity and piety. You were witnesses how holily, how diligent}// and unblameably he behaved himself among you who believe ; with what faith- fulness and zeal he preached the gospel ; w r ith what firmness he reproved the disorderly ; with what tender- ness he consoled the afflicted ; with what paternal assi- duity he visited your families, and taught you, accord- ing to the apostolic example, from house to house. The affectionate attachment to him which you manifested in life ; this numerous assembly that attends his remains to * I mean in comparison with the fortunes which men of talents acquire in other lawful professions. REV. C. T. SN0WDEN. 209 the dust ; and the grief that is settled on every counte- nance, strongly attest the fidelity and prudence with which he discharged his pastoral functions in the midst of you. He recommended himself to every man's judg- ment, and to every man's heart. "Mr. Snowden's piety to God was united with the most amiable and benevolent attentions to mankind. His charities were liberal. His social dispositions warmly attached the affections of the people of his charge, and gained a ready access to their hearts, for those pious reflections which he was prone to mingle with the cheerfulness of conversation. Religion in him bore nothing gloomy or austere in his aspect, or allied to superstition in its pi'actice. If in the first moments of his religious zeal, the native ardour of his mind seizing on objects so great, and so new to him, as those of the eternal world, led him to form ideas of piety above the present standard and condition of human nature, reflec- tion, judgment and acquaintance with the Holy Scrip- tures soon enabled him to correct them, and to frame to himself a system of virtue and practical holiness, highly rational and just. His pious affections seemed to be ha- bitually in act, and to mingle themselves with every do- mestic, social and public engagement. His conversa- tion was always cheerful and animated, his dispositions to society warm and affectionate, his spirit candid and liberal, and along with the great principles of piety, jus- tice and charity, he considered it as incumbent on a Christian, according to the apostolic direction to culti- vate 'whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are ofgood report: and, if there is any virtue, if there i<- any praise ; to think of these things.'* * PLilippians, iv. J? 27 210 SKETCH OF " Your deceased minister and friend is to be consider- ed, not only as a faithful pas/or, but as an useful man- He was growing into great importance and respectabili- ty in the judicatories of the church. And the flourish- ing circumstances of this congregation — the decency of its public worship — the order of its finances — the regu- larity of its discipline — the accuracy of its records — and the readiness and pleasure with which the reciprocal duties ^hicha people owe to their pastor have been discharged, are all so many monuments to his praise. His counsel and example promoted industry. He was forward in advancing every scheme of improve- ment among the people. An excellent citizen him- self, he inculcated the duties of good citizenship, as being among the essential virtues of Christianity. Vigilant for the public liberty, he knew that liberty itself could not exist without subordination to laws. An enemy to faction and sedition — abhorring those in- trigues, cabals, and slanders that tend to disturb the peace of the state, he ever taught it to be as much the duty of a good man to submit to the higher powers in the execution of their lawful functions, as to be pru- dent and circumspect in the use of that portion of sove- reignty that each citizen enjoys, by which those powers themselves are appointed. — But what shall I say 1 — as a citizen — as a neighbour — as a friend — as an active, use- ful, amiable member of society, you were witnesses of his virtues, and, I am persuaded, you will long hold the memory of them dear. — As a pastor you loved him. You now follow him with your tears and sighs to his grave. Every famiiy thinks it has lost in him a broth- er or a father. He has left, I trust, in your houses and in your hearts, those precious seeds of piety and truth KEV. G. T. 3NOWDEN. 211 which will spring- up, and bear fruit to the glory of God, when he has received his reward." The following passage is added from the same dis- course, as a striking instance, of that superior kind of el- oquence, for which the writer, of the preceding elegant view of Mr. Snowden, is so highly distinguished, and as presenting reflections suited to the occasion and appro- priate to the character of the deceased : — " For himself, though just in the freshness and vigour of life, and in the midst of prospects of usefulness and re- putation that were daily enlarging, it has pleased a sovereign Providence to call him away from a young and tender family — from a bereaved congregation — and from his labours in the church of Christ. — Obscure, of- ten, and mysterious are thy dispensations, infinite God ! But though clouds and * darkness appeared to be round about thee,' we believe and confess that 'justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne, mercy and truth forever go before thy face !'* He re sis from his labours and his works do follow him. Let this be the consolation of surviving mourners. Though the stroke is painful — though the bereavement is severe, and grief for a moment, may overwhelm the weakness of human nature ; yet a pious man will not murmur against the will of God — a good man would not wish to call him away from the felicity that he enjoys. Our own self- love must yield to the considerations of his superior hap- piness and glory." • realms, KCvii, 2, and Ixxxix. 14. NOTE E. SKETCH OF THE REV. JOSEPH CLARK, U.D. Joseph Clark was born October 21st, 1751, near Eli- zabeth-Town, New-Jersey. His father was a man of more than ordinary worth, and his mother was eminent- ly pious. Mr. Clark regarded the good example and pious instruction of his excellent mother, as having been the principal means employed by the Heavenly Father, to bring him to penitence and piety. At an early age he felt the power of religion, and was admitted a mem- ber of the presbyterian church at Elizabeth-Town, un- der the ministry of the Rev. James Caldwell. After he had passed his twentieth year, his views were elevated above the ordinary pursuits of men, and fixed upon the service of God in the ministry of his Son. Henceforth his studies and his whole attention were directed to this great object. He encountered many difficulties and embarrassments in prosecuting his pur- pose, and consequently advanced slowly in the path he had chosen. He manifested a very great degree of pa- tience, industry and perseverance, in pressing towards the object of pursuit. The confusion created by the American revolution, retarded his progress. When the British entered New-Jersey, he left college, and joined the American army. He continued several years in the service of his country, rendered important aid in the 214 SKETCH OF revolutionary contest, and received attentions from dis- tinguished military characters, very flattering to a youth of his age. At length, after many interruptions, he was honoured with the degree of bachelor of arts, in the col- lege of New-Jersey, A. D. 1731, just at the close of his twenty-ninth year. Anxious to be engaged in ihe great and good work in contemplation, he entered upon his course of theological study without delay. The princi- pal part of his theological instructions, he received from that venerable father^' in the church, and distinguished teacher of divinity and ecclesiastical history, the Rev. Dr. John Woodhull, pastor of the first presbyterian con- gregation of Freehold, Monmouth, New-Jersey, with whom Mr. Clark resided some time, prosecuting his stu- dies preparatory to the ministry, and improving himself, by assisting his reverend preceptor in the instruction of the highly respectable grammar school, which he had established, and was then superintending, at the place of his residence. Having successfully accomplished the course of study usually prescribed to candidates for the sacred office, he was licensed, on the twenty-third day of April, A.D. 1783, by the Presbytery of New-Brunswick, to preach the gospel of Christ. On the twenty-first of October following, he was appointed, as a stated supply for six months, for the vacant congregation at Allentown. On the fifteenth day of June, 1734, Mr. Clark was solemnly * This honourable appellation is justly due to that distinguished minister of the gospel, on account ofhis having bepn a zealous and active partaker in most of the important ruea ures by which the Presbyterian Church in the United States was originally established, and by which, under God. it has been conducted to its present state of prosperity Inaddi;ioa to this, it is believed to he a fact, that he has sustained the office of an ordained minister of Jesus Christ, a greater num- ber of ye- * , - , n any other individual now living, in the Presbyterian Church. JOSEPH CLARK, D.D. 215 ordained, sine titulo y * to the work of the holy ministry, by tho Presbytery of New-Brunswicjk; the Synod of New-York and New-Jersey having been previously consulted respecting- the expediency of that transaction, and having- approved the contemplated measure. Very soon after Mr. Clark commenced his visits and occasional ministrations at Allentown, as a licentiate, the people of that place manifested a strong predilec- tion for his person and services, which in a short time resulted in their giving him a regular "call, to under- take the pastoral office in said congregation." Although this became immediately the stated place of his ministe- rial labours, he did not regularly accept the call, which had been put into his hands for consideration, until June 1T88, when he was installed pastor of that congregation by the Presbytery of New-Brunswick. Mr. Clark very soon acquired the esteem and confi- dence of his brethren in the ministry, and became high- ly respectable for his talents, his prudence and his pie- ty, in the eyes of the church and of the world. In Jan- uary 1796, he was regularly "translated" from the pas- toral charge of the congregation of Allentown, to that of the presbyterian congregation in the city of New- Brunswick, where he continued his pastoral services, in growing honour and usefulness until death. Mr. Clark was endowed by his Creator, with talents of a superior grade ; and his mind was enlarged and ac- complished by much reading and study. These things, together with his deep penetration into the human heart. and his thorough experimental acquaintance with the springs of human conduct, qualified him to be a judi- V; Without pastoral charge 216 SKETCH OV cious and successful agent in business implicating the characters, involving the interests, and touching the sen- sibilities and passions of men. He was independent and firm in his exercise of thought and accustomed to rely, very much, on the dictates of his own understanding: and without appearing to be ambitious, presuming or self confident, he was always forward and ready to aid and direct in every great and good work. He was a very distinguished and zealous instrument in accom- plishing several important public transactions in his day. In the years 1798 and 1799, the state of the western frontier of our country, and the destitute condition of many congregations,, either about being formed or regu- larly organized, in different parts of the United States, began to attract the attention of the general assembly and of the leading characters in the presbyterian church. The Rev. Mr. Clark, was conspicuous, from the begin- ning, for activity and zeal in all the measures relating to this new and interesting object of attention, in the presbyterian church. The general assembly, of the year 1300, brought their views to a point and agreed that the following objects deserve consideration, viz : — 1. "The gospelizing and civilization of the Indians, on the frontiers of our country." 2. " The instruction of the negroes, the poor and those who are destitute of the means of grace." 3. " The purchasing and disposing of Bibles and of books and short essays, on the great principles of reli- gion and morality." 4. " The provision of a fund for the more complete instruction of candidates, for the gospel ministry previ- ous to their licensure." JOSEPH CLARK, D.D. 217 , To enrry into effect these seasonable and beneficent plans, (he wait of funds, was perceived and deeply de- plored The assembly resolved to appoint and send agents through the country, to solicit donations, for the purposes, above mentioned. For this business, Mr. Clark was peculiarly qualified, by the dispositions of mind and traits of character, before suggested. The assembly, sensible of this, selected him as one of the six persons, to whom this agency was committed. He en- tered upon the service with great cordiality and zeal. His heart and hands were warmly devoted to the cause. His success clearly evinced his zeal and fidelity, in the business. Of the agents appointed, only four acted. At the next general assembly, May 1801, Mr. Clark re- ported an amount of subscriptions obtained $ 6869, 47 cts. which, with some unascertained monies due from the same source, exceeded considerably $ 7000. The most successful, 61 the other three, reported $2124, 70 cts. In the year 1800, whilst these things were taking- place in the general assembly, a measure connected with this subject and auxiliary to it, was introduced and adopted in the presbytery of New-Brunswick, which was important in itself and which reflects great honour on Mr. Clark, who was the prime suggester of the plan, its principal advocate while under discussion, and the most active and influential individual, in carrying it in- to effect. It was foreseen, as soon as the above named subjects, were taken up, in the assembly, that the execution of the con- templated plan, for enlarging the funds of the assembly, must devolve upon the presbyteries constituting that body. The presbytery of New-Brunswick, anxious to 28 218 SKETCH OF afford pecuniary aid, in this exigence of (he church, with all possible expedition, and in anticipation of the assembly's probable decision as to the best manner of proceeding, at the suggestion of Mr. Clark, devised and adopted a number of rules, respecting the raising of an annual collection, through their churches, the last one of which is particularly worthy of observation, viz : — " Finally that in compliance with the request of the elders of the churches in presbytery met, and in or- der as far as possible to equalise the contributions and to proportion them, to the abilitesof the respective con- gregations, the annexed schedule of apportionments, be recommended, to be considered as containing, the year- ly rates of contribution from the several churches. 'Connected with this resolution stands in the printed mi- nute of that transaction, a specific statement of the sum, to be required annually from each congregation, under the care of the presbytery, to be disposed of agreeably to a foregoing resolution. Some of the most experien- ced and judicious members of presbytery were very ap- prehensive of serious dissatisfaction, and resistance to this measure, among the churches. It was however adopted in presbytery. And in order to explain and vindicate the measure in the view of the congregation ; and to procure their approbation and compliance, Mr. Clark consented to become, in person, the bearer and publisher of it, to the churches in general. So ably and successfully, did he perform this voluntary service, that the whole recommendation of the presbytery, on this subject, was received and complied with. The congregations, in general, in their annual collections for JOSEPH CLARK, U.D. 219 the general assembly, observe, at this very time, the ap- portionments* then made and enjoined upon them. * There appear? to be a radical and lamentable defect in the constitution and government of the presbyteriao church in regard to the method of obtaining uindj to meet the varioui an J important exigeuries of the church. Every government ought to possess power and toexhibit in its constitution and laws a provision, 'or obtaining from its own subjects, on equitable principles, adequate means to accom- plish the important purposes and to promote the best interests, of the system. Our ecclesiastical compact, is destitute of such a provision. The plan pursued i<* with- out authority and therefore comparatively without eff. c' The repeated calls addressed to the churches, accompanied by a formal recommendation, feebly and timidly whispered out, a-e heard only by a part, and heeded, by very few. Leaving the manner and amount of contribution entirely to the discretion of the contributor, the present system operates unequally and unjustly as it relates to different lections of the church and individuals in the same portion of the chinch. It is attended with vast inconvenience, delay, and sacrifice, imposing through the scantiness of its products, the necessity of direct and repeated appeals to the char- ity and liberality or the few disposed to give, by solicitation, subscriptions and col- lections, which at length become burdensome, to the collectors and offensive to the people. And the most material disadvantage is, that the resources provided are temporary and inadequate to the demand. The system introduced into the presbytery of New-Bruriswick, through the in- strumentality of Mr. Clark, prescribing to every conj regatinn the permanent amount of annual contribution, presents an actual demonstration, of the disposi- tion with which, a measure containing this principle, would probably be received in the presbvterian church, in general, when once adopted by the voice of the rep- resentatives of the clergy and laity acting in their supreme legislative capacity. The number of professors of religion in this branch of the church, consists of at least 00,000 : and there are, at a moderate estimate, 250.000 supporters of the gospel, or attendants on public worship within her bounds. How perfectly easy would it be, to provide means by making a very low assessment, on this great mass of people, for the most part, living id circumstances oi abundance and ease, sufficient, to carry on the missionary opeiations— to discharge the claims on the commissioner's fund,— and to mature and perfect our most valuable and interest- ing Theological Seminary at Princeton ! The extracts from the minutes of the general assembly, for the year 1300. in form us. that a measure somewhat of this kiud was thougty of, but unfortunately abandoned at that period —The paragraph referred to is under the head of " means by which necessary funds may he provided" A:e viz : — " It is not impos- sible nor perhaps improbable, that if experience should demonstrate the practica- bility and utility of the measures contemplated, the people, of t'>e presbvterian denomination, might generally be persuaded to make an anoual donation (say 220 SKETCH OF In the year 1799, Mr. Clark was appointed by the general assembly, in connexion with several other ve- ry resectable gentlemen, to meet the General Synod of the Reformed Associate Churches, on the subject of their twenty-five cents* each) to render them more extensively effective, and this of it- self would go very far towards providing a fund, adequate to all the expenses con- templated."— A plan of this nature, to supply the defect here referred to, and to be subs'ituted either altogether, or in part, for the method now employed, devised with equity, introduced in a prudent conciliatory manner, recommended and en- forced only hy argument, persuasion and entreaty, b in appeal to the pious affec- tion, benevolence and zeal of the presb* terian church, would be a very great im- provement in our system of ecclesiastical finance That it would be extensively effective, even making the apportionment very low, appears unquestionable, when the extent of the church and the amount of her numbers, are taken into view. And that it would meet the approbation and acceptance of the churches, if judi- ciously managed, there is very little reason to doubt They who are disposed to contribute to the necessary calls of the church would not complain of this measure, because it would effectually prevent their being applied to, for more than their fair, and just proportion. They who possess a contrary disposition and who have manifested it by their practice, ought to be the last to find fault, having so long en- joyed an almost enire exemption from these reasonable and necessary burdens. The truth is, the sum required, would appear, to all, so inconsiderable — the rea- sonableness and necessity of the measure, 90 obvious — the good to be produced by this mean so incalculable— and the capacity to contribute, the mites required would be found in general so ample, th^t if proper explanations were to accompa- ny such a measure, in its first publication and proposal to the church, it could not fail to receive the approbation of the enlightened and liberal people, who compose the presb'terian body in tills country. We need a system of this kind at the present moment. Notwithstanding all the efforts that ave been made and the successes that have followed, without such a resort as this, it is difficult to see how the great and beneficent designs, now contemplated in the prcsb> terian church, can be speedily and completely attained. * This sum is so small, that probably, very few would be. found, to whom the pay- ment of it would be burdensome or disagreeable But it might be reduced still lower end, even then, it would be a productive resource, in no wise inconsistent with the sa. crcdness and dignity of the church. The Peter-pence-tax which consisted of one penny on each house, was continued for centuries on the continent of Europe and even in Great Britain, under some of the most illustrious sovereigns. See Mo- sheim , s Eechsiatiical History, Vol. ii. page 482. Nesbit, 151. JOSEPH CLARK, D.B. 221 receiving and ratifying, the system of correspondence and intercourse, between the Associate, Dut li Reform- ed and Presbyterian Chi re es, in the United States, which had been prepared and reported by a joint com- mittee from these several sections of the chun h, and unanimously agreed to, by the last general assembly. In this business their efforts were unsuccessful : and the whole plan, so happily cab ulated to establish friendly intercourse and correspondence between these separate branches of the church, was frustrated. Mr. Clark's reputation as a most able and successful advocate, in the cause of charity, was now established. And divine Providence very soon presented, a new and irresistible call for Ids services, in this capacity. On the 6th day of March 1802, the edifice, library, and philo- sophical apparatus of the college of New-Jersey, estab- lished at Princeton, were destroyed by fire. This was an alarming and desolating conflagration. The funds were in a state so entirely exhausted and the destruction of every thing but the walls of the college was so com- plete, that many doubted whether it could ever be re- covered from its ruined condition. But the trustees of the college immediately resolved to attempt its restora- tion. On the 18th of March, they issued their eloquent and pathetic address 'to the inhabitants of the United States,' on this interesting subject. Preparatory meas- ures were immediately taken, to obtain by solicitation, the funds requisite, for re-establishing the institution. Mr. Clark, the decided friend of literature, as well as of piety, at the request of the corporation of the college, agreed to perform a soliciting tour, to repair the losses which the college had sustained. In company with John Bryan, Esq. of Somerset county, an Irish gentle- 222 SKETCH OF man of wealth, intelligence and enterprise, who was se- lected by the Board of Trustees to be his colleague in this journey, he set out from home, early in the ensuing autumn. After travelling together into the interior of Virginia, and meeting with pleasing encouragement in their business, to give wider compass to their efforts, they agreed to separate. Judge Bryan was to direct his course to the west and north, and to return to New- Jersey in the following spring. The movements and successes of this gentleman were, very soon after the sep- aration, terminated by death ; he being attacked by a fit of the bilious colic, a disease to which he was subject occasionally, which proved fatal. Mr. Clark, who was to have continued his journey in a direction inclining somewhat to the south, to the east, and to the northeast, and so to return home, when he came into the vicinity of the Chesapeake, was also taken sick. His disease, though not alarming, was tedious and afflicting; inas- much as it caused a painful suspension of his services, and rendered somewhat doubtful the ultimate success of his mission. Although he was prevented by this dispen- sation of divine Providence, from prosecuting his la- bours to the extent originally contemplated, yet his ser- vices were very important to the institution, and highly satisfactory to the Board of Trustees. About this period, Mr. Clark was elected a member of the corporation of Princeton college, in which sta- tion he continued to act, with distinguished fidelity and zeal, till the close of his life. In the year 11106, he was appointed a delegate from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, to attend the General Association of the state of Connecti- cut. JOSEPH CLARK, D.D. ~'2'.l The system recommended by the General Assembly, and adopted by the Presbytery of New-Brunswick, for the charitable education of poor and pious youth, for the gospel ministry, he patronized and promoted with all possible diligence and earnestness. The difficulties he had encountered in his course preparatory to the mini-try, seemed to inspire him with increased zeal in forwarding this measure. By the appointment of pres- bytery, he acted for many years, as principal member of the committee of education, whose business it is, especi- ally to superintend the education of such candidates for the sacred office, as are dependent on presbyterial aid. Mr. Clark was honoured for many successive years, with being a member of the committee of missions, which acted by the appointment and under the direction of the General Assembly. In all the transactions of this com- mittee, he felt a deep interest, and took an active part. In the year 1309, when the preparatory measures were commenced for esiablishing the Bible Society of New-Jersey, Mr. Clark was foremost in zeal and dili- gence, among the founders of that excellent institution. In the course of this year, the degree of Doctor of Di- vinity was conferred upon him, by the Board of Trus- tees in Jefferson College, established at Cannonsburgh, in the state of Pennsylvania; a distinction due to his talents and merits. Dr. Clark was a warm and decided friend of the theo- logical seminary established at Princeton ; and had his life been prolonged to this day, no man would have re- joiced more than this zealous and active servant of God, in its prosperous course, in the advantages already ari- sing from it, and in its growing prospects of utility, to the church, and to the world. 224 SKETCH OF Notwithstanding the feebleness of his health and the multiplicity of his engagements, Dr. Clark exhibited a rare instance of most undeviating punctuality and faith- fulness, in attending all the meetings of the judicatories of the church with which he stood connected. So very frequently was he a member of the General Assembly, that he became personally acquainted with all the prin- cipal characters in the church: he was himself well known, throughout the whole presbyterian body ; and he embraced in his mind, with extraordinary correct- ness, the whole course of business and manner of pro- cedure, in the General Assembly. Probably his influ- ence and usefulness proceeded, in no inconsiderable de- gree, from these circumstances. Thus, through the good providence of God, Dr. Clark rose from obscurity, by the force of his talents and industry, and became an important and leading member of the Presbyterian Church. He lived to the church and to his generation. Concerning most, if not all the great transactions thrt took place in the Pres- byterian Church, within the last twenty years of his life, he might justly have said, " Qureque ipeo vidi et magna pars fui " His life exhibited a scene of ardent desire and per- petual exertion to be useful. He was an able and faith- ful pastor. He visited his people much, and taught them from house to house. The state of his health of- ten prevented his attempting as much pastoral service, as his piety and zeal, in circumstances more favoured in this respect, would have prompted him to perform; His public discourses were uncommonly solid and judi- JOSEPH CLARK, D.D. 225 cious ; comprising always a full proportion of pious, im- portant and interesting matter; delivered in a plain, solemn, dignified and affectionate manner. lie was thoroughly Calvinistic in all his opinions and represen- tations of Christian faith and doctrine. Practical infer- ence and application, composed a large and material part of all his pulpit performances. A sermon, delivered on the occasion of the death of the Hon. William Patterson, Esq. L.L. D. published in New-Brunswick, A. J). 1806, and two of his discourses, inserted in the New- Jersey Preacher, 1813, present hand- some and honourable specimens of his taste and accuracy as a writer. On ordinary occasions, on account of the de- bility of his breast and lungs, his elocution was slow and languid ; but there were times when he seemed to rise above the weakness of his nature, to be inspired with youthful vigour, and to display much of the spirit and energy of a great Christian orator. His talents in debate were remarkable, both to dis- cern and to defeat the arguments and aims of his adver- saries. He had promptness without arrogance in ad- vancing, and firmness without ostentation or obstinacy in maintaining his opinions. When he had inadvertent- ly deviated from fact or order, it seemed to give him pleasure, when reminded of it even by the most incon- siderable of his brethren, to make acknowledgment and reparation. The opinions and pleas of opponents in discussion, he treated with perfect civility and respect. On the introduction of a new subject, he did not employ the popular artifice sometimes resorted to by those who aim at triumph only in debate, of waiting in silence to discover the popular impulse, that he might the more certainly espouse the successful side of the question. 29 226 SKETCH OF On occasions of this kind, he was often one of the first speakers. And instead of betraying himself into the power of others, or laying himself open to critical or captions remarks, by want of previous thought, he gen- erally manifested that his mind was accomplished and prepared to speak at once, w ith propriety and effect, on almost every subject. In the details and minutiae of business, few men prob- ably have surpassed Dr. Clark. In giving thought in- stantaneously an eligible form on paper, for any speci- fied purpose, in matters of business ; in drawing an ar- ticle of agreement between hostile parties ; in sketching a minute, a report, a resolution, or any preliminary facts and circumstances, he manifested peculiar quick- ness and ability. He was patient, discerning, accurate qx\d indefatigable, far beyond what is usual even with men of his high character and standing. Dr. Clark possessed extraordinary colloquial powers, and a peculiar relish for cultivated society; and his ex- i tensive and various information, his easy address and facility of communication, rendered him an uncommon- ly instructive and agreeable companion. In his person and manners, he exhibited a due proportion of simplici- ty and neatness, dignity and familiarity, candour and af- fection. In all his walk through life, with the polite- ness and affability of the man of literature and the gen- tleman, he mingled that purity of conversation, and that savour of piety, which ought always to characterize and adorn a minister of Jesus Christ. Hospitality al- Wi ys enlarged his heart and presided at his board. He courted the society of the pious, intelligent and honour- able, of every denomination, of all ranks, and from eve- ry quarter. He possessed a peculiar faculty for adapt- JOSEPH CLARK, U.D. 22? ing his conversation and manners to all kinds of compa- ny, plain or polished, and for making persons of every description easy and comfortable in his presence and in his family. His attention to business, and his exertions to promote science, morals and religion, continued with great uni- formity, until his exemplary and useful life came to a close. This event took place late in the evening ol the third Tuesday in October, A. D. 1313, while the Sy.-.od of New- York and New -Jersey were attending their an- nual meeting. Although his constitution was very fee- ble at best, and his general state of health considerably reduced, his death was very sudden and unexpected. He appeared through the day and evening preceding his decease, to have been gradually recovering from some increase of indisposition, of which he had before com- plained, and had just retired to rest, under an expecta- tion of setting off early next morning to meet the Synod at New-York; when Mrs. Clark, whose attention was drawn that way by something unusual, on approaching the bed side, found him just expiring. Medical aid was called in with all possible speed, but it came too late to avail. The appointed time and circumstances of his dissolution had arrived. Violent spasms had stopped the motion of his vital powers. Instead of the contem- plated meeting with his brethren, in the Synod of New- York and New- Jersey, we trust he was delightfully sur- prised, by a call from his Master, "to the General As- sembly and Church of the first born in heaven." NOTE F. SKETCH OF REV. SAMUEL KENNEDY. Previous to the long and unhappy vacancy which pre- ceded Mr. Finley's settlement at Basking Ridge, that congregation was under the pastoral care of the Rev. Samuel Kennedy, a minister of the gospel highly distin- guished for learning, eloquence and piety. He was born in Scotland, A. D. 1 720; ard received his educa- tion in he University of Edinburgh. What circum- stances, under divine Providence, induced him thus ear- ly in life, and without a profession, to emigrate to this country, carno f now be satisfactorily determined. The minutes of the Presbytery of New-Brunswick, relating to Mr. Kennedy, establish the fact, that he engaged in study for this sacred office, by their advice. It is proba- ble they were led to this measure, by a discovery of some marks of piety and genius in him, promising use- fulness and eminence in the church. On the sixth of December, 1749, he was received un- der the care of the Presbytery of New-Brunswick, on trials for the sacred ministry. He was licensed to prea h the gospel, on the eighteenth of May, 1750. On the twenty-fifth of June, 1751, he was solemnly ordain- ed to the service of G<>d in his holy ministry, and at the same time installed pastor of the congregation of Basking Ridge. 2oi) SKETCH OF His intellectual powers being naturally strong ; his ed- ucation thorough ; his piety sincere and fervent ; and his attention devoted to retirement and study, so far as was consistent with his active duties and ardent temperament : he accumulated knowledge rapidly, became profound in his profession, conciliated esteem and inspired re- spect among all ranks in society. And it is not surpri- sing, with such powers, attainments and dispositions, that he acquired extensive influence in the church, and rendered himself highly interesting and respectable,* in the pious circle, in the ecclesiastical judicatory, and in the sacred desk. Mr. Kennedy devoted a considerable proportion of his time, at one period, to the instruction and manage- ment of a Latin school established at Basking Ridge. Seminaries of this kind were not numerous at that time. His ability as a scholar, and his energy as a disciplinari- an, rendered this business both easy and pleasant to him. His school furnished many respectable students for the college of New-Jersey. And several gentlemen who received the elements of their education under his care, are still living in respectability and usefulness. The labours of Mr. Kennedy among the people of his charge, were very extensive and successful. Several glorious awakenings and revivals were experienced there in succession, producing abundant and precious in-gatherings of souls to Jesus, and additions to that * A. very distinguished clergyman, of the city of New York, while residing in the congregation of Laming! on, to which place he retired for a ehort time during the American revolution, became well acquainted with the Rev. Mr. Kennedy, and in conversation with an intelligent and pious lady, observed, " that he had before heard much of Mr. Kennedy's knowledge and excellence, but that he could say aa the Queen of Sheba did of Solomon, not half ivas told him." REV. SAMUEL KBNNEDT. 13 1 church, of such as the fervent pastor hoped would he saved, and appear as seals of his ministry and crowns of his r jricing in the day of the Lord Jesus. Mr. Kennedy was a remarkably evangelic preacher. Tie made the doctrines of grace and salvation through Jesus the constant theme of his pulpit discourses, and ve- ry often too the subject of private and familiar conver- sation with friends and neighbours. In all his public transactions he appeared as the decided friend of vital piety ; and he was considered as one of the most evan- gelic men in the church. The Scotch and Irish clergy, in general, who were quite numerous in the presbyterian church from its es- tablishment in the United States, elevated by a con- sciousness of the superiority they derived from their reg- ular and scientific education in the universities of their native country, were inclined to place too high an esti- mate on talents and learning as qualification for the sa- cred ministry, and in proportion to undervalue and neg- lect experimental religion and personal piety. In ex- amining candidates for the holy office, they insisted more on academic learning, than upon practical godli- ness. The clerical emigrants from the southern part of Great Britain and those of New-England, differed dia- metrically and warmly from them in regard to these im- portant matters. Hence the whole presbyterian church became divided on this subject and others, of a similar nature, into two great parties. The former were de- nominated the old sidt — the latter the new side. The former entertained such sentiments and views respecting qualifications for the ministry as are here ascribed to them : — the latter ran into the opposite but less danger- ous extreme, that of setting a comparatively low value 232 SKETCH OF on human science, while they insisted on the right and propriety of examining candidates for the holy ministry, in regard to personal piety, before receiving them on trials, and considered satisfactory evidence of a gra- cious change in them, indispensably necessary. This division had been long in existence. The opposed par- ties had been maturing and occasionally trying their strength and the contest progressing, many years before Mr. Kennedy reached his meridian. Although a small proportion of the Scotch and Irish, and not many of their descendants, appear to have deviated from the views of the old side party, and although Mr. Kennedy stood conspicuous among his countrymen in every hu- man accomplishment, the evangelic power of his piety and the judicious independence of his mind prompted him to espouse the new side and to enlist himself under the standard of pure vital piety, in opposition to his feel- ings of national attachment and to the prejudice against every thing American which was then so clearly per- ceived and sensibly felt. Mr. Kennedy was one of the eighteen* ministers who signed the celebrated letter to the archbishop of Canter- bury in behalf of the Rev. Mr. M'Clenachan, an episco- pal clergyman of the city of Philadelphia ; — the follow- ing amusing account of which transaction is extracted from Dr. Miller's interesting "memoirs" of the Rev. John Rodgers,D.D. published in New-York, 1813, page 105— 106— viz:— * The other seventeen subscribers were— Gilbert Tenneut, William Ten- nent, Samuel Davies, John BUir, Charles Tennent. Moses Tuttle, Charles M'Knight, Benjamin Chesnut, William Ramsay, John Rodgers, James Finley, Abraham Keteltas, John Roan. Aibner Brush, John Moffat, Alexander Macwhor- ter, and Robert Smith. UEV. SAMUEL KENNEDY. 233 lf In the year 1760, an event occurred, which made considerable noise in the ecclesiastical circles of America. There resided in Philadelphia at this time, the Rev. William M'Clenachan, an episcopal clergyman, whose preaching- was considered as more evangelical than that of the generality of his brethren of the same denom- ination. While this circumstance endeared him to a considerable number of the episcopalians of Philadel- phia, and rendered them earnestly desirous of retaining him as their minister ; it excited the opposition of a still greater number, and threatened to produce his exclu- sion from the episcopal church, in that city. During a meeting of the synod of New-York and Philadelphia in May, IT 60, the character, difficulties and prospects, of Mr. M'Clenachan, happening to be the topic of more general and more warm conversation than usual, a num- ber of the membersof thesynod were so deeply impressed with the excellence of his character, and the probable use- fulness of his ministry, and felt so much interested in his continuing to reside in Philadelphia, that they determined to attempt something in his behalf; and accordingly ad- dressed a letter to the archbishop of Canterbury, re- questing him to exert his official influence, in favouring Mr. M'Clenachan's wishes and those of his friends, that he might retain his place. " This indiscreet and undignified interference with the affairs of another denomination, was condemned by all impartial persons : and, indeed, the authors of the letter themselves had scarcely dispatched it, before they be- came sensible of the impropriety of their own conduct, and wished it recalled. The reception which it met with from the archbishop was such as might have been expected. No answer was returned : and the letter 30 234 SKETCH OF soon found its way into the public prints, accompanied with such comments as were natural, and not wholly un- merited. When the synod convened in Philadelphia, the next year, they found this unfortunate letter, fol- lowed with severe strictures, printed in the form of a pamphlet and circulating very generally among the citi- zens, under the title of ' The eighteen presbyterian min- isters.' And not unfrequently, when walking the streets, were their ears assailed by the shrill notes of the hawkers of small books and pamphlets, crying, 'eigh- teen presbyterian ministers for a groat.' These circum- stances afforded a subject for much merriment, and se- vere remark, not only on the part of Mr. M'Clenachan's episcopal opponents, but also on the part of those mem- bers of the synod who were still denominated old side men ; and who had declined having any thing to do with the letter to the archbishop !" Mr. Kennedy was rather above the ordinary size of men, somewhat corpulent and plethorick. His man- ners were very plain, retaining much of their native Scotch simplicity and sometimes approaching to blunt- ness. He was distinguished by an easy, copious and uniform flow cf thought and expression, on every sub- ject. His remarks, on all occasions, were pithy, judi- cious and appropriate. He was a very modest and un- assuming man. With the sacred duties of the ministry he united, for many years, the business of practising medi- cine in his own congregation. His skill and judgment in this profession were regarded as uncommonly sound and correct. It is believed that he derived from thisprofession the honourary appellation of doctor, with which he was distinguished generally in conversation and sometimes in records, many years before his decease. There is no RLV. SAMUEL KENNEDY. *23j evidence discoverable now that he received the degree of Doctor of Divinity, although this distinction was mer- ited by his talents, his piety and his zeal. The labours, of Mr. Kennedy, were terminated by death on the 31st day of August,' \787, which was the sixty-seventh year of his life and the thirty seventh of his ministry at Basking Ridge. Mr. Kennedy deserves to be considered as one of the pious and venerable fathers of the church, in the Uni- ted States, who contributed extensively by his prudent counsels and faithful labours, to the promotion of evan- gelic piety and to the establishment of our presbyterian form of government, and system of religious faith and practice. NOTE t>. SKETCH OF REV. JAMES CALDWELL, &c. Mr. Caldwell was ordained to the work of the holy ministry, in the latter part of the year 1T61 ; and, he was at the same time, installed pastor of the 1st presby- terian congregation in Elizabeth-Town, New-Jersey. His intellectual powers, which were of a superior order, his education which united religious strictness with lit- erary culture, and his native elevation of mind combin- ed their influence to create in him, early, a strong ten- dency to a virtuous, honourable and useful course of ac- tion. It pleased the Giver of every good gift, early to foster and sanctify these endowments, and to crown them with distin uished honour by directing them into the channel of his own sacred service, in the min- istry of the gospel. The qualifications with which Mr. Caldwell entered on this high vocation, were such as to adorn the sacred office, to promote the interests of the church and to benefit the souls of men. Of a sprightly temper, comely person, — graceful and engaging address — his voice clear and melodious — his mind well improv- ed by theological science, polite literature, and culti- vated society — his piety highly evangelica', a ive and fervent — he was one of the most pleas ng, eminent and useful preachers of his day. He was much beloved by 238 SKETCH OF the people of his congregation and his memory is still dear to a number of them who are now living. He was zealous, laborious and faithful in discharging the duties of his sacred trust. He delighted in visiting the people of his charge, and was accustomed, to carry warm practical piety with him into the private apartment and the social circle.' In the small domestic assembly and in the ordinary intercourse of friendship, as well as in the congregation of God's people, he exhibited peculiar charms. Societies, and small meetings, for prayer were his delight. Accordingly, stated and occasional assem- blies for these purposes were numerous in his congre- gation. His ministry was pre-eminently prospered by the great Head of the church, in the year of our L( rd 1772. A considerable effusion of the divine Spirit was then experienced in his congregation; and many were added to the church, some of whom are yet living wit- nesses, that this was truly a work of God. Mr. Caldwell's character soon became extensively known and highly appreciated, in the church. His su- perior capacity for extemporaneous speaking, his anima- ted, impressive and captivating eloquence in the puipit, and his fervent piety, rendered him uncommonly inter- esting to every audience, and excited for him, high es- teem, both at home and abroad. The character of his mind, and the nature of his improvements, qualified and designated him for eminent usefulness in various spheres of action and of duty ; and the circumstances of his coun- try, in the revolutionary contest with Great Britain, soon presented an opportunity for the splendid and suc- cessful exercise of all his versatile powers, and for the trial and illustration of all his Christian virtues. In- dependent, prompt and ardent, he espoused the cause of REV. JAMES CALDWELL. 239 his country with decision and warmth ; and he p-irsued her interests with a degree of intrepidity and enterprise, of zeal and perseverance, which would have honoured a Christian patriot of any age. While the British occupied the city of New- York, the borough of Elizabeth and its vicinitj were peculiarly exposed to incursions from the foe. Hence the Ameri- cans, to whom the defence of that point was committed, were compelled to exercise peculiar vigilance and ac- tivity in all their movements. Mr. Caldwell, from his perfect know ledge of the people and the place, and from his sagacity, alertness and zeal, was remarkably calculated to give them efficient aid, in counsel and in action : and he rendered them his services on all occa- sions, in a manner corresponding with his known patri- otism and tried courage. The frequent alarms and occasional sufferings, that speedily resulted from the warfare, and the insecurity of property and of life, attendant upon a residence at Eli- zabeth-Town, induced Mr. Caldwell to move his family a short distance into the interior of the country. lie continued his pastoral labours with as much constancy and fidelity as the state of his congregation and his own peculiar circumstances would permit. Notwithstand- ing the continual guard that was kept, and the precau- tionary means that were employed, a party of refugees, under covert of night, January 25, 1780, destroyed his church by fire. Mr. Caldwell had for some time discharged, in a very acceptable manner, the duties of chaplain, in the Amer- ican army stationed near Morris-Town, and performed voluntarily many other important services, in aid of its operations. His zealous exertions to promote the cause 240 SKETCH OF in defence of which his country was arrayed in arms against a powerful foe, his cheerful and affable disposi- tion, and his urbanity of manners, contributed to raise him high in the respect and confidence of the American offi- cers and soldiers. His popularity and influence in the army, were well known to the enemy, and rendered him particularly obnoxious to those traitors to their coun- try, who had abandoned its interests and joined the Bri- tish standard. The wanton and sacrilegious destruction of the church at Elizabeth-Town, was attributed princi- pally to this circumstance. Mr. Caldwell shared extensively in the hardships and hazards generally experienced ; and he was called in the -year 1780, to encounter a peculiarly afflicting ca- lamity, in the death of his excellent wife. This lady was the daughter of John Ogden, Esq. of Newark, New- Jersey. Her amiable disposition, her piety and her ex- emplary deportment, had obtained for her the very par- ticular respect and attachment of all who knew her. Her life had evinced that she was worthy of the sphere in which she had moved, and prepared for the event which now prematurely befel her. She was the mother of nine children, the eldest of whom was sixteen year^ old, and the youngest was an infant. Notwithstanding these circumstances, on several occasions, when alarms of the enemy's approach had been made, Mrs. Caldwell had been induced to retire from her residence at Con- necticut Farms, for greater security, higher up into the country. Having found these retreats very difficult and troublesome, and, for the most part causeless, she de- termined to cast herself in future on the clemency and magnanimity of the foe, and on the care of her cove- nant-keeping God. REV. JAMES CALDWELL. 211 V On the sixth of June, 17150, General Knyphausen came over from Staten Island, with about five thousand men, and landed in the night, at Elizabeth-Town Point. Ve- ry early next morning they directed their march to- wards Springfield, through the settlement of Connecti- cut Farms. Although Mrs. Caldwell was apprised of their approach in season to escape, her mind was made up on this subject, and she resolved, in humble reliance on Divine Providence, to remain at home. When the enemy were entering the village, Mrs. Caldwell with- drew from the apartment she usually occupied, into a more retired room, for the purpose of devotion as well as security, with her infant in her arms. The maid, who had accompanied her to this secluded apartment, and had charge of the other small children, on looking out of a window into the back yard, observed to Mrs. Caldwell, that " a red coat soldier had jumped over the fence and was coming up to the window, with a gun." Her youngest son, nearly two years old, playing upon the floor, on hearing what the maid said, called out, "let me see — let me see !" and ran that way. Mrs. Caldwell rose from sitting on a bed very near ; and at this moment the soldier fired his musket at her through the window. It was loaded with two balls, which both passed through her body. The surrounding building- and the house in which this deed was perpetrated were soon after set on fire. It was with difficulty that the dead body of Mrs. Caldwell could be preserved from the general des ruction that ensued. After it had lain some time exposed in the open street and in the hot sun, liberty was obtained to place her remains in a small dwelling house, on the opposite side of the road, Which had survived the conflagration. , / 31 242 SKETCH OF The following night Mr. Caldwell spent at a place called Short Hi' Is, not far from Springfield. He retired to rest in the evening in a state of excessive anxiety re- specting the fate of his wife and children. The parti- tions of the house consisted of boards not very closely joined. In his sleepless state he overheard two men, lodging in an adjoining room, talking on the sub- ject of the death of Mrs. Caldwell. He rose quickly and entered their room in great agitation, and inquired what they had heard on that subject. They represented it as only a rumour, and probably a mistake, and persuaded him to return to his bed. The remainder of the night was to him a season of most painful suspense and anxiety. In the morning Mr. Caldwell procured a. flag, and proceed- ed with all possible speed to Connecticut Farms, to visit his family and ascertain their state. While yet at some distance, he discovered that the church and village were in ruins, and that the enemy had returned to Staten Island: and very soon, he learned the truth of the af- flicting rumour before received, that Mrs. Caldwell was no more. Her friends were assembled ; and the funeral service was performed, with as much solemnity and or- der as the desolation and alarm universally prevalent would permit. Whiie this event was deeply afflicting to Mr. Caldwell and his numerous friends, it made a strong impression on the public mind. The following account of this trans- action, i« extracted from Marshall's Life of Washing- ton,* and is introduced to show the views of this distin- guished revolutionary patriot and American historian, as well as of the public in general, in relation to the events we are here recording : — * See vol. 4, page 225. KEV. JAMES CAtt>WCLL. 243 ••* At the Connecticut Farms, a flourishing settlement which took its name from the country of those by whom it had been planted, and which had been distinguished for its zeal in the American cause, a halt was made. In a spirit of revenge, unworthy the general of an army, which was in the character of Tryon, who was present, rather than of Knyphatiseh who commanded ; which serv- ed more to injure than advance the interests of those in whose cause he was engaged ; and which tended more to irritate than intimidate : this settlement including the meeting house and the house of the cletggman belonging to the village, was reduced to ashes." The author here quoted then adds in a note : — " This circumstance would scarcely have deserved notice, had it not been accompanied by one of those melancholy events, which even war does not authorize and which the civilized world condemns, and which made at the time a oery deep impression. " Mrs. Caldwell the wife of the clergyman, who has been mentioned, had been induced to remain in her house, under the persuasion that her presence might ■-erve to protect it from pillage, and that her person could not possibly be endangered, as in the hope of pre- serving the firms, Col. Dayton, who at that time commanded the militia, determined not to halt in the set- tlement, but to take post at a narrow pass on the road leading to Springfield. While she was sitting in the midst of her children, having- a sucking infant in her arms, a soldier came up to the window and discharged his musket at her. She received the ball in her bosom and instantly expired. " Ashamed of an acf so universally execrated, it was contended by the Britis.-, that this lady was the victim 244 SKETCH OF of a random shot, and even that the fatal ball had pro- ceeded from the militia: in proof of which last asser- tion, they insisted that the bali had entered on that side of the house which looked towards the retreating \mer- icans. But it was notorious that the militia made no stand at the Farms, and a pathetic representation of the fact made to the public by the afflicted husband, receiv- ed universal credence and excited universal indignation. The death of Mrs. Caldwell might indeed be considered as the act of a single soldier, and therefore not of itself involving the reputation of the army ; but when with it was connected, the wanton and useless devastation com- mitted by authority, these act-, formed one connected whole in the public mind, and served still more to con- firm the settled hate of the well affected, against the British government." In this season of public alarm, private suffering, and universal confusion, Mr. Caldwell, after putting his do- mestic affairs in the most favourable situation practica- ble under existing circumstances, returned to his impor- tant avocations. His activity and zeal in the discharge of his various duties were not diminished, and the indig- nation and abhorrence of the public, were greatly in- creased by this recent outrage of violence and rapacity. In less than eighteen months after the tragic act which deprived Mr. Caldwell of his inestimable wife, he was himself brought to an untimely grave by a similar deed of horror, which appeared to be instigated by the most savage, malevolence, and was perpetrated by the hand of a ruffian traitor to his country, who attempted to shel- ter himself under the protection of a British flag of truce. This event took place on the 24th of November 1781. The following account of the circumstances is extracted REV. JAMES CALDWELL. '1\'.) from the "New-Jersey Gazette," a respectable paper printed at the period here referred to, and obligingly furnished to the writer by the Hon. Joseph Bloomfield, dated Wednesday, December 12, 1T8.1. " Mr. Caldwell having been informed that -\ young la- dy had arrived at Elizabeth-Tow n Poii t, in a flag of truce from New -York, who had permission to come w ithin our lines and who is the daughter of a lady who has distin- guished herself by her great humanity, tenderness and generosity to the American prisoners in New-York, and considering himself bound by his duty as a citizen to render every possible service to the family of so worthy a character, went down to the Point, with an intention of waiting on the lady up to town : when he arrived there, the officer then commanding the post at Eliza- beth-Town, being on board the flag sloop, asked him whether he would go on board. — He then stepped on board the sloop and was informed that the young lady had already gone to the town. Being about to return, a person in the sloop- asked him whether he would take a small parcel tied up in a handkerchief. Mr. Caldwell consented to take it, went on shore, put the bundle into a chair-box and was driving off, when a soldier stepped up to him and said " I must search your chair to see whether you have any seizable goods in that bundle." Mr. Caldwell, then seeing it would be imprudent to run any further risk, asked the officer whether he would suffer him to return the bundle to the sloop. To this request the soldier readily agreeing, Mr. Caldwell took the bundle out of the chair-box and was stepping on board of the sloop to return it, when the murderer as ho was on the quarter-deck and within about ten yards of him, said damn ?/ou, stop. Mr. Caldwell instantly stop- "2-16 SKETCH OF pedand immediately on his stopping-, the soldier present- ed his musket and shot him : — he tell down and instant- ly expired without a groan. His funeral was attended the Tuesday following by a large concourse of people, when a funeral sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. M'Whorter, from Ecclesiastes viii. and 8th. " Mr. Caldwell was a man of very superior talents, whether considered as a preacher, a statesman, or a citi- zen. He was one of the first who embarked in the cause of his country, in which he has ever discovered a mind incapable of being intoxicated with partial successes, or meanly depressed by the clouds of adversity. His zeal, activity and unshaken integrity under every circum- stance of the present revolution, are deeply imprinted on the minds of his countrymen. As a preacher of the gospel he was excelled by very lew of the present age: his oratory was natural and pleasing and exceedingly persuasive. He was a diligent and faithful minister of Jesus Christ, to which the reformed lives and conversa- tions of a large part of his numerous congregation bear an unequivocal testimony. "He has left a most destitute and helpless family, con- sisting of nine children, the eldest about seventeen years of age, and the youngest not exceeding two, to experi- ence the humanity and benevolence of those tender and sympathetic minds, who are not above the feelings of another's woe. Though Mr. Caldwell has been almost constantly engaged in public departments since the pres- ent war, which have been the source of riches and afflu- ence to many others, yet such was his uprightness and love of his country, that his rising family, are now left to deplore the want of a bare subsistence, but from the generosity of those who knew their father's virtues. REV. JAMES CALDWELL. 247 We may justly conclude with lamenting our country's loss, a loss to mankind — to human nature." The utmost consternation and horror seized all who were present, at the sudden and tragical death of Mr. Caldwell. The perpetrator of the shocking deed, was for some time forgotten. Mr. Caldwell's body, lifeless and drenched in blood, was taken up and carried to a public house not fur distant. After the tumult at first excited, had in some measure subsided, means were employed to secure the murderer, whose name was Morgan. He was pursued, speedily overtaken, and committed to prison. In the course of his trial after- wards, it became manifest that the murder was premedi- tated, and produced in part probably by something more than individual enmity. Morgan was condemned to death ; and at the time of his execution, he manifested an awfully corrupt and obdurate heart. On being in- formed, when led out to be executed, that his time was come, and that if he had any thing to say, he must say it quickly ; he replied, " You will all soon come to this. Here, give this blanket," presenting it to the execution- er, "to my wife. Now do your duty, and don't keep me here suffering in the cold." The remains of Mr. and Mrs. Caldwell were deposit- ed in the presbyterian church yard, at Elizabeth-Town ; and on the marble slab which covers them, is the fol- lowing honourable inscription: — " Sacred to the memory of the Rev. James Caldwell and Hannah his wife, who fell victims to their country's cause, in the years 1730 and 1781. " He was the zealous and faithful Pastor of the Pres- byterian Congregation in this town, where, by his evan- gelical labours in the gospel vineyard, and his early 248 SKETCH Of attachment to the civil liberties of his country, he has left on the hearts of his people a better monument than brass or marble. " Stop, Passenger ! " Here also lie the remains of a woman, who exhibit- ed to the world a bright constellation of the female vir- tues. On that memorable day, never to be forgotten, when. a British foe invaded this fair village, and fired even the temple of the Deity, this peaceful daughter of heaven, retired to her hallowed apartment, imploring Heaven for the pardon of her enemies. In that sacred retreat she was by the bloody hand of a British ruffian dispatched, like her divine Redeemer, through a path of blood, to her long wished for native skies." By the untimely and lamentable death of Mr. Cald- well and his wife, their numerous and interesting chil- dren were cast upon the affection of their friends and upon the providence of God. The condition of the country, the agitated state of public affairs, rendered their loss incomparably greater, and the care of them proportionally more difficult. In Mr. Caldwell's zeal for the public welfare he had neglected his private inter- ests. His property in a great measure, as well as his life, he had sacrificed to the good of his country. Nev- er was public sympathy manifested towards a bereaved and afflicted household, more strikingly and affect ing I y than on this oi c ision. The tidings of Mr. Caldwell's death, and the mournful tale of his children's orphanage and helplessness, pervaded the whole land, inspiring deep sorrow and tender concern in every bosom. In the central regions of the country more especially, this subject shed a gloom over every social company, and was long the melancholy theme of common conversa- BET. JAMBA CALDWELL. 2^'.) tion. The Heavenly Father mingled his counsels and his care with the sensibilities of the surrounding coun- try and with the weeping anxieties of friends and Kin- dred. His wisdom and goodness were peculiarly mani- fested towards this interesting group of orphans, in rais- ing up for them affectionate and judicious friends, dis- posed to train them with parental fondness and fidel- ity, to knowledge and piety, honour and usefulness. Among their principal benefactors may be enumerated the lion. Elias Boudinot, L. L. D. the Marquis de La Fayette and General Lincoln. General Washington, the illustrious father of his country, transferred his re- gard and kindness for his martyred friend, Mr. Cald- well, to his fatherless children. The Father of the fa- therless, by his merciful interposition and care, remark- ably fulfilled to those bereaved children the words of his promise, by the mouth of his servant David, " "When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord shall take me up." That distinguished friend of human- ity, who stands as the first of the earthly benefactors of this afflicted family, was the principal instrument em- ployed in divine providence, to accomplish this desira- ble and happy purpose. Dr. Boudinot voluntarily as- sumed the care of these children, and discharged the important trust with a parental faithfulness and constan- cy. Divine wisdom seemed to direct his ways, and the divine blessing to rest upon his measures. With his ju- dicious management, and under the care of the great heavenly Parent, their lives were preserved, their minds were well improved, their patrimony was yearly ex- tending, and their prospects brightening before them. Nor have the hopes which soon began to be cherished, and the pleasing anticipations which were formed re- 32 250 SKETCH OF specting their ultimate success in life proved delusive- God remembered his promise; he regarded the faith and the prayers of his servant and handmaid. The counsel and the care of anxious and devoted friends, of- ten prove weak and inefficient in the government and disposal of children. And how often do the prospects of fortune and the possession of wealth and splendour, become injurious or destructive! But the Lord God is a friend, a helper and a solace indeed, to all who cast their care upon him ; for he caret h for them. NOTK H. A VIEW OF REVIVALS. The moral government of God, is in itself stupendous and unsearchable. The glorious Monarch of this great invisible system, performs all things according to his eter- nal counsel and sovereign pleasure. The purchase and establishment of a church upon earth, the calling and sanctification of those predestinated to be the sons of God, and the dispensation of grace to a lost world, through the mediation of Jesus Christ, are exalted and mysterious subjects, which inspire in the believer's heart, mingled emotions of anxiety and hope. These mysteries, inscrutable to mortals, God has mercifully- deigned, in some measure, to develop. The grand and interesting outlines of his kingdom, its end, its laws, its oilicers, its subjects, its rewards and penalties, and the means of promoting it, he has portrayed in his blessed word. So that when the church, either in reviewing the past, with triumph exclaims, " Now is come salva- tion and strength and the kingdom of our God:"* or, contemplating the future, in obedience to her Lord, sup- plicates, " Thy kingdom come;" she recognizes with confidence the whole instrumental system, by which the spiritual kingdom of God, the dominion of grace in the * Rev. x. 12. 252 A VIEW OF heart, is advanced; she assigns to human agency, au- thorized and employed by the King of Zion in this great work, the influence and the respect it deserves: but she bestows her highest praises and benedictions upon that spiritual Divine Agent, sent from above, who "quick- ens whom he will;" from whose almighty co-operation exclusively, all subordinate means derive their efficacy. For " it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that run- neth, but of God that showeth mercy."* The infinite God, in conducting his gracious and tri- umphant march through this world, has proceeded with an unsteady progress. The interests of his church are advanced, sometimes, in so silent, gradual and hidden a manner, by the invisible influences of the Holy Spirit upon (he hearts of men, that it may be said indeed, " The kingdom of God cometh not with observation. "f This is the method in which God usually promotes his own cause. When he proceeds in this way, the operations of his Spirit, and the progress of divine truth, are deep and radical, but tranquil and unseen : the heart is im- pressed and changed, but externally all remains calm and uniform: inquirers for salvation are guided by the Spirit to Jesus Christ, free from those strong excitements and violent emotions, which produce visible agitation : and believers are enabled to walk " in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost." To this state of the church, may be applied such expressions of the inspired writers as these ; "day of small things,"J and "still small voice. "§ There are seasons, however, when God is pleased to depart from his usual method of carrying on his sacred * Rom. \x. 16. f Lute xvji. 20. \ Zee, iv. 10. 5 1 Kings six. ?2. REVIVALS. 2.W work : when he renders ordinary means more than usu- ally powerful and effectual, in rousing human attention to divine things: when the Holy Spirit aets upon the hearts of sinners with increased energy, convincing them of sin, of righteousness and of judgment to come: when sudden, powerful and extensive awakenings take place in assemblies and communities: when, perhaps, from a combination of causes, deep excitements are produced in a considerable number of persons at the same time, whose hearts are painfully agitated by strong conflicting passions, and whose countenances and external appear- ances exhibit affecting evidence of internal tumult and alarm. These seasons in the church, have been denominated variously : by some, a day of divine pow- er;* an out-pouring of the Spin'/ :f by others, a time of refresh i tig, J and a revival. This last mode of expression, as well as those prece- ding, has its foundation in several passages of God's Ho- ly Word; and it has become more prevalent in popular use than any other. The term revival, is drawn directly from the Sacred Scriptures, and by recurring to them, its just import may be easily ascertained. In the Sacred Writings it possesses two meanings. I. To bring to life that which is in a dead or lifeless state. The most clear instance of its application according to this signification, is contained in Rosea, chapter vi. verse 2. — "After two days will he revive us." The ' In reference to Psalm ca. 3. f In reference to Isa. xliv, 3. Joel ii U.'l. Zee. -ii. 1.0. j Deriving this appellation from A.e1 iii, ]'■ 2£4 A VIEW OF meaning of the original word is, vivificabit nos, i. e. " will revive us."* On this passage, the pious and ju- dicious Scott observes, " that the nation of Israel, was as it were dead," in their seventy years captivity, "but after two days, that is, on the third day, the Lord would revive them, and they would live in his sight, as his peo- ple, upon their return from the Babylonish captivity, af- ter the appointed time of its continuance. The lan- guage is generally supposed to be prophetic of the res- urrection of Christ on the third day, with whom as her surety the whole church, virtually, arose from the dead, to live unto God : wilh him the hopes of all believers revived: his power as risen quickens their souls, when dead in sin : and his resurrection was the earnest of the resurrection of their bodies unto everlasting life." 2. To preserve and invigorate the principle of life already existing — to quicken and vivify the principle of grace, or spiritual life, in the believer's heart — the se- cond sense of the term revive, is very common in the Di- vine Word. Such is its undisputed meaning, where it is employed by Kzra, ix. 9. — " Our God hath not forsa- ken us in our bondage, but hath extended mercy unto us in the sight of the kings of Persia, to give us a, reviv- ing, to set up the house of our God, and to repair its des- olations." The same signification is uniformly attrib- uted to this word, where it is so devoutly used by the Psalmist: "Wilt thou not revive us again?" lxxxv. 6. * This passage is explained thus, by Vatablus, a learned commentator : "Per Christum restituet vitam nobis, qui mortui eramus, per peccatum " Castalio, Drusius, Clarius and Grotius, all coincide with Vatablus in his translation and comment. Vide annolata, ad Oseen, Vatabli, etc. Critici Sacri. For an ac- countof this rare and valuable work, see preface to Dr. Adam Clarke's Commen- tary. REVIVALS. "Quicken us, and we will call upon thy name :" Ixxx. 18. "Though I walk in the midst of troubles, thou wilt revive me:"* exxxviii. 7. The following passage is beautifully illustrative of the point before us : " Thus saith the High and lofty one, T dwell with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive\ the heart of the con- trite ones."J That the prophet here refers to the sin- cere and faithful servants of God, no one will contro- vert. The petition of Habakkuk, " Lord, revive^ thy work in the midst of the years," iii. 2, requires a similar translation. That, therefore, is a revival, in the true scriptural sense of this term, in which God is pleased to impart to his church, or to any number of his people, however lo- cally situated, greater than ordinary degrees of gracious influence, stronger excitements of his Holy Spirit than usual; by which the children of God are animated and * The same learned HMical expositor before referred to, gives the sense of revire'm this passage, as tollow«: '• Vivificabis me, vel. seivabis me incolumeni." Thou wilt quicken, vivi'v me, or preserve me safe Drusius agrees with Vata- blus, and renders the same in Greek, " Perisooseis me ;" in Latin, " Servabis me." Crit. Sac. in loc. f Forerius gives the substance of this text, in the following plain theological Latin of the seventeenth century. Crit Sac in hoc loco. " Sensus est, illc, qui cuui sit excelMis, et supra omnia, et aeiernns, et cojus nomen est sanctum, et, juxta naturam suam, excelsum, quoque locum inhabitat et sanctum, ille, inquam, qui cum ' alis sit, cum contrito tamen, seu contuso, et qui est humilis spiritu, cohabitat, ut ejus cor et spiritum vivificet, recreet, et consoletur." \ Iiaiah lvii 15. $ In the margin of some Bibles, this is judiciously expressed by the words gr*- arvt alive. *256 A VIEW OF comforted in their pious duty, experience an increase of interest, zeal and stability in the service and hope of the gospel, feel their pious affections gently moved and drawn out towards God, and their whole disposition and frame of mind rendered more spiritual, devout and hea- venly. The soul in which these operations take place, experiences "a time of refreshing from the presence of the Lord :"* and that church, or company of Christians, who feel these gentle movements of the Holy Spirit, producing such blessed fruits, enjoys a season of revival in religion, whatever may be the state of moral feeling and conduct around them in the world. Numerous and precious are the visits of this kind, which the children and churches of God receive from the blessed Saviour and his Holy Spirit. Indeed without them, every pious grace must dwindle and die. What is the spiritual life of believers on earth, but a series of declensions and re- vivals, through all its progress ? " Awake, O north wind, and come thou south : blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden and eat his pleasant fruits" ! ! Can- ticles iv. 16. Instances sometimes occur, in which many sinners are deeply impressed with a solemn concern, and in due season "added to the Lord," while professors of reli- gion experience no uncommon quickening from above. The Christian body is not revived, but enlarged by ad- ditions from the world. This is a day of divine power among the dry bones of the valley, an out-pouring of the Spirit of God. Sometimes again, the Lord is pleased to animate and comfort his children in a peculiarly strong and happy * Acts iii 10. REVIVALS 2.5? manner ; so that their graces are enlivened, their 7a al is excited, their prospects brightened, and their joy and peace greatly increased, A\hilethe whole work is un- seen and unobserved by the world ; — sinners remain on every side impenitent and unmoved as before, and the church receives from anion-- them no greater acees- sions than usual. This is peculiarly and emphatic ally a time of refreshing — aranoa/, from the Divine Pr jsence : — the principle of grace, the spiritual life, already ex- isting in the believer's heart receives an animating im- pulse, and is invigorated by the Holy Spirit. Such revivals often lead to awakenings among the unregene- rate. Christians are thus excited to a more diligent at- tendance upon the means of grace — they become mere earnest and faithful in endeavouring to awaken the zeal of one another and to subdue the insensibility of the careless — they are brought to exercise greater importu- nity and perseverance in public and in secret prayer — and God, who will be inquired of by the house of Isra- el, after having excited his children to fervent supplica- tion, answers their prayers, in copious effusions of his Spirit upon thoughtless and perishing sinners. The application of the term revival to those cases ex- clusively in which there is exhibited great excitement of feeling and terror, deep conviction and alarm, among those formerly thoughtless and impenitent, manifests a want of precise and accurate attention to the origin and meaning of the word : — it is a use of it which does not comport with its scriptural signification, nor with just and liberal views of the subject. It is of importance to form just and comprehensive ideas of the divine dispensations. We would admire and adore all the gracious dealings of God with his church 238 A VI KW Oh" — we would rejoice in the reviving- and refreshing sea- sons with which he has visited, and is still animating, his children — we desire to view with gratitude and encour- agement the sovereignty and grace of God as displayed in the numerous awakenings and in-gatherings of sinners which have been experienced in all ages of the church and in recent years. But, at the same time, we feel con- strained to remark, that some individuals in consequence of their great zeal on the subject of what they denomi- nate revivals, do not appear justly to estimate the nu- merous undesireable circumstances with which sudden and extensive religious excitements have sometimes been followed and are liable to be attended. A sentiment, connected with this subject, very unjust in itself and wounding to Christian sensibility, cannot be passed without notice. It consists in undervaluing and dishonouring the ministry of those Christian pastors, whose labours are not crowned with revivals in the pop- ular, but crro7ieous acceptation of that term. The work of the Lord proceeds in their hands, in a steady and uni- form course of improvement : — the flocks, to which they minister, grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ : — the number of profes- sors receives a regular and pleasing increase : the church under their care is built up in faith, knowledge and purity. But, they have no revivals, according to the mistaken application of this word. The Lord may descend by his Spirit and refresh his children : — he may arrest and bring home to Christ in the ordinary way, a few lost souls out of the multitudes ready to perish : — the feeble believer may be strengthened, the trembling find relief, the tempted deliverance, the mourning com- fort, the timid courage, the sluggish and inactive obtain REVIVALS 209 quickening and life : but, we are told, it is no revival unless " a great and strong wind rend the mountains and break in pieces the rocks before the Lord,"* unless there are experienced times of powerful conviction and alarm among sinners : — and if these are not felt, the pas- tors are cumberers of the ground, lukewarm and unproduc- tive labourers in the Lord's vineyard. Does not the following passage give a very different view — "Now saith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, though Israel be not gathered yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord."f What estimate would the persons, here refer- red to, form of the preaching of Noah — of Isaiah — of Jeremiah — of Ezekiel — and, even of the ministry of Je- sus Christ himself? — It is God's ordinary method to build up his church and to accomplish great moral chan- ges, "by little and little," and the benefits of the Chris- tian ministry, under the "still small voice" and gentle influence of the Spirit, cannot be too highly appreciated. The church in such circumstances often exhibits much of the fruits of the Spirit, knowledge, order, moderation, prudence, peace and joy, and "a patient continuance in well doing" to the praise of God's glorious grace. The additions and advantages, in general, which the church has been continually receiving in this gradual manner, through past ages, from the divine blessing on the sacred ministry, inconceivably transcend the utmost benefits it has ever experienced, from occasional out- pourings, of the divine Spirit and powerful awakening? which have been witnessed, and which are by some re- * 1. King', xix. II. ' i-:ii xlix. J. 260 A VIEW OF presented as almost the only legitimate and acceptable method of building up the church. .Another error connected *.v ith this subject, and com- mitted by those, who talk of going about to mak revivals, implies such entire ignorance of the true nature of a gen- uine work of grace on the heart of man and manifests such presumptuous and criminal confidence in external means ar>d in the arm of flesh, that it deserves no indul- gence, nay it merits the decided condemnation and re- buke of every triend of true religion. It essays to sub- stitute the feeble and inefficacious efforts of a worm, in the place of the sovereign and infinite grace of the Most High, and it would se^m to consider every partial ex- citement of temporary religious conce n, the transient effect on the feelings and passions, which human exer- tions can produce, as a rational, solemn and divine im- pression of the Spirit of God — ideas, directly opposed to the plan of salvation, by grace, and hostile to the whole system of gospel truth. The dispensations of God, towards his church, in past ages, furnish many pleasing and animating instances, in which he has advanced his kingdom in both of the meth- ods here contemplated by granting to his people reviv- ing influences and by visiting sinners with a day of pow- er and mercy. A few of these interesting transactions in the church, with a view to illustrate somewhat the subject before us, Ave shall briefly glance at, without at- tempting in ever3 r instance to decide the particular character of each dispensation briefly described. The first intimation of a revival of religion, to be found in the history of the church, is presented to us by Moses, in the following words: " Then began men REyiVALS. ittl to call on the name of the Lord."* Passing by the speculations and controversies of the learned and ingen- ious respecting this passage, we remark, that it furnishes unquestionable evidence of a great increase of order, zeal and devotion in the worship of God, among the pious family of Seth. The quickening power of the Holy Spirit, must have been experienced in an extraor- dinary degree, producing something new and striking in the religious character and conduct of men, especial- ly in regard to the duty of prayer, or " calling upon God," to merit so marked and honourable a notice in the concise history of Moses. We have no intimation that any were added to the church, or that any now for the first engaged in the duty of prayer. Pious men must, before this, have been accustomed to make known their wants by prayer to God, and the number of such may have been increased at this time ; but it is certain that the spirit of prayer, praise and devotion, was then cherished and exercised in a degree far exceeding any thing before experienced among men, which must have proceeded from the quickening power of God's Spirit, sent down from heaven. f The Divine Record teaches us to believe that the Fa- ther of mercies visited, with his peculiar influence, that portion of the Israelites in the wilderness, who were in the morning of life. The Lord God, provoked by the unbelief and disobedience of those who came out of Egypt in mature age, had sworn that they should not. * Gen. iv. 26. t See Edwards' History Redemption, Gvo. SG ; also Stackhouse's History oi" the Bible, 8vo. vol. 1, 146, &c. 262 a view or enter into his promised xest. Buc 'he generation under twenty years old, and those born in the wilderness, he addresses with extreme kindness and affection : " But your little ones, which ye said should be a prey, them willl bring in, and they shall know the land which ye have despised."* The Lord describes this generation as a pious, obedient and beloved people : " I remember thee, the kindness of thy youth, the love of thine espous- als, when thou wentest after me in the wilderness. Is- rael was holiness to the Lord, and the first fruits of his increase. "f God speaLs of his tender and endearing intercourse with this generation, by the prophet Hosea, xiii. 5: "I did know thee in the wilderness, in the land of great drought." Joshua ssys unto them, xxiii, 3, " Cleave unto the Lord your God, as ye have done unto this day." Their piety and zeal were proved and manifested, at the time of Achan's sin ; when the two tribes and a half were suspected of haviog built an altar in opposition to that of the true God ; in removing the reproach from Israel, by observing the rite of circum- cision : and by solemnly renewing their covenant with God. On the whole, at the season here referred to, re- ligion appears to have been in a greatly revived and flourishing state. This dispensation was intended and wisely calculated to prepare the way for establishing and preserving the divine Avorship among the Israelites in the land of Canaan. God was pleased to continue this peculiar influence to his people for some time, un- der their illustrious leader, Joshua, and to afford him a double portion of the same spirit. * Num. xiv. 31. f Jtr. ii. 2,3. REVIVAL*. 26JJ The church of God enjoyed a very refreshing season, immedi itel after their return from the Babylonish cap- tivity, under the ministry ol Ezra, the priest. Ezra, who was pre-eminently zealous and active in religion, immediately after ins arrival from Babylon, devoted himself, w i b all bis powers, to reform the vices and to correct the evil habits of the JeWs. Of the progress and result of his efforts, we are informed in the tenth chap- ter of tiie book bearing his name, and in the eighth and ninth <■[]■ i.r rs of Nebemiah. The congregation of Is- rael, under the preaching of Ezra, mourned and wept sore for their sins: they entered into solemn covenant with God, and forsook their evil courses, they observed a fast, confessing their iniquities and imploring the di- vine mercy: they gave diligent and serious attention to the ministrations in sacred things which they enjoyed : they kept the feast of tabernacles, in the true spirit of that sacred institution: so that the worship of God was reformed, and the spirit of piety was revived* 1 glorious- ly r in Israel, to the praise of God's free grace. The fol- lowing remarks of a truly eloquent writer, are beauti- fully illustrative of the above suggestions: — " Ezra, himself a priest and doctor of the law, and Nehemiah, the governor, reformed the abuses which the captivity had introduced, and caused them to observe the law in its purity. The people with them deplore the trans- gressions which had brought these chastisements upon them, and acknowledge that Moses had predicted them. They all read in the sacred books, the menaces of this man of God — they see the accomplishment of them. The oracle of Jeremiah, and the return so much prom- * Edwards' Hist. Redemp.— also, Calraet's Die. Bible, word Esdrae 264 A VIEW OF ised i • seventy years captivity, astonish and con- so le them. They adore the judgments of God, and, re- conciled to him, they live in peace."* A most extraordinary and wonderful out-pouring of the divine Spirit was witnessed at Jerusalem, on the day of Pentecost. The doctrines of salvation were about to be proclaimed to a guilty world. " To scatter abroad, in all places and in all ages, truths so exalted, and to en- force in the midst of corruption, practices so holy, a power was necessary more than human. Therefore Je- sus Christ promised to send the Holy Spirit, to strength- en his apostles, and perpetually to animate the body of the church. This power of the Holy Spirit, to manifest itself the more effectually, must appear in infirmity. « I send you,' says Jesus Christ to his apostles, ' the prom- ise of my Father,' that is to say, the Holy Spirit; in the mean time, ' tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high.' In conformity to this order, they remained shut up forty days : the Holy Spirit descended at the time appointed : tongues of fire, fallen upon the disciples of Jesus Christ, mark the effica- cy of their word : the preaching commences : the apos- tles bear witness to Jesus Christ: they are ready to suf- fer all things, to evince that they have seen him risen. Miracles follow their words : under two discourses of * "Esdra«, pretre lui-meme et docteur de la loi, et Neheraias, gouverneur, reforn erenttousleaabusquelacaptivite avoitintroduits, et font garderlaloi dans sa purete. Le peuple pleure aveceux les transgressions qnelui avoient attiieices chatimens et reconnoitqus Moi'se lesavoit predits. Tons ensemble lisent dans les saints livres les menaces de 1' homme de Dieu ; ils en voient 1' accomplisse- ment ; 1' oracle de Jeremie, et le retour tant promit apres les 70 ans de captivite, les gtonnent et les consolent : ils adorent les jngemeus de Dieu, et, reconcilies avec lui, ils vivcnt en paix." Vide Histoirc Universelle— Tom. 1. 12 mo. page •J 18. Bossuet. REVIVALS. 265 St. Peter, eight thousand Jews are converted ; and, weeping their error, they are washed in the blood which they had shed."* This was a display of divine power and mercy, unequalled in the annals of the church and in the triumphs of heavenly grace. The impulse expe- rienced was immediately traced by the eloquent and pi- ous Peter, to that prediction and promise of God, on which hang the prayers and the hopes of the world: — "I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh. "f The as- sembly was large and promiscuous, composed of men " out of every nation under heaven." And " fear came upon all, and suddenly a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. "j So wonderful was the power ex- erted by the Spirit of God, on the promiscuous multi- tude of sinners who attended the preaehing of Peter, -"that they gladly received his word, were baptized, and the same day there were added to them about three thousand souls " " They were not Christians in name only: they understood and believed the apostolic doc- trine, concerning repentance and remission of sins in the name of Jesus Christ : they continued united to the pas- tors whom God had made instruments of their conver- sion : they received constantly the ordinance of the Lord's supper, in which they enjoyed real communion with their Saviour: and prayer was their daily employ- ment and delight. Their holy boldness towards God, and their joyful sensation of forgiveness, were tempered with a godly fear. Every soul was possessed with it. * Translated from the French. Vide Histoire Uuiver. Bossuet, Tom. J. 2T-". r Joel ii. 28. i Acts ii. '2.5, Ac- 34 266 A VIEW OF They had felt the pangs of guilt: they had seen what a price was paid for their redemption: they "rejoiced with trembling," as men just emerged from the pit of destruction: they continued stedfastly in the apostle's doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers."* The power of divine grace was, soon after signally il- lustrated in the land of Samaria. This country was sit- uated between Judea and Galilee. " After the success of the gospel had been so gloriously begun among the proper Jews, the Spirit of God was next wonderfully poured out on the Samaritans, who were not Jews by nation, but the posterity of those whom the King of As- syria removed from different parts of his dominions, and settled in the land that was inhabited by the ten tribes, whom he carried captive. "f These people had receiv- ed the books of Moses, and they observed some of the ceremonies required in them ; but they corrupted the institutions of Moses, by mixing idolatrous services with them. They went not up to Jerusalem to worship, but resorted to the temple of Mount Gerizim, referred to by the woman of Samaria: "our fathers worshipped in this mountain." J The Jews and Samaritans had long cher- ished an unhappy enmity towards one another. The blessed Saviour, in the days of his humanity, manifested kindness for this people. His attempts to bring them to piety were unthankful ly resisted then ; but his set time, to separate to himself a peculiar people in Samaria, had now arrived. This was effected principally through the instrumentality of Philip, "who went down to the * Vide Milner's Churcli History, vol. 1, page 24. f Edwards' His. Redem. 259. t John iv. 20. REVIVALS. 267 city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord, gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. And there was great joy in that city."* This happy work of God was carried on in many Samar- itan villages, by the visiting and preaching of Peter and John. The arrogant and blasphemous pretensions of Si- mon Magus, who had "bewitched the people with sor- ceries," were no longer tolerated. The power of God's Spirit and the wonders of divine love, were displayed in reconciling and uniting in ties of Christian affection and harmony, many Jews and Samaritans, strongly op- posed in their religious principles, relations and observ- ances, and habitually hostile, from motives of worldly interest and false honour. The inveterate enmities and deep rooted prejudices of the carnal mind, were soon subdued and rectified by the triumphant operations of God's most Holy Spirit. The Spirit of the Lord was poured out and made to triumph gloriously in Thessalonica. "A synagogue of the Jews Mas established there, and Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three Sabbath days reason- ed with them out of the Scriptures. And some of them believed and consorted with Paul and Silas: and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief wo- men not a few."f " The growth of this people in god- liness, was soon renowned through the Christian world. Their persecutions appear to have been grievous, and hence the comfort of God their Saviour, and the pros- pect of the invisible world, became more precious to * Acts vin. 5, 6, 8. - Actsxvii. 2(38 A VIEW OF them."* They appear to have enjoyed with peculiar abundance and constancy, the sanctifying and consoling influences of the divine spirit and presence ; hence they were alive to God, zealous and devout in his holy ser- vice. The city of Ephesus, in Asia Minor, was remarkable for the great temple of Diana, one of the wonders of the world, erected there, which attracted the attention of many strangers. Few places upon earth were more strongly devoted to idolatry. Many ingenious artists enriched themselves by making shrines and images for the superstitious worship of Diana. The gospel of Christ had, therefore, peculiar obstacles to encounter in that city. And " in no place," says the excellent historianf before referred to, " does the word of God seem so much to have triumphed, as at Ephesus. The work of conversion was deep, vigorous and soul-trans- forming, to a great degree. Many, struck with the hor- ror of former crimes, made an open confession ; and ma- ny who had dealt in the abominations of sorcery, now showed their sincere detestation of them, by burning their books before all men, the price of which amount- ed to a large sum. ' So mightily grew the word of God and prospered.' Thus triumphs the sacred historian. Satan must have trembled for his kingdom: the empti- ness of all the systems of philosophy appeared no less palpable, than the flagitiousness of vice and the enormi- ties of idolatry. The spiritual power of Jesus was nev- er seen in a stronger light, since the day of Pentecost : and the venal priesthood of Diana, the celebrated god- dess of Ephesus, apprehended the total ruin of their hierarchy." * Milner's C. Hist. 77, vol. 1. f Milner, vol. I. 93. REV! V ALB. 269 Another remarkable work, of the divine Spirit on the hearts of men particularly distinguishable in the annals of the church, is presented in the history of the IV l(h ri- ses. The season of prosperity, which the church of Christ enjoyed under the ministry of the . s postles, Evan- gelists and Fathers, was sue ceded by a time of persecu- tion and darkness, which continued for several centu- ries. "There was a certain people," says president Edwards,* "called the Waldenses, who lived separate from all the rest of the world, who kept themselves pure and constantly bore a testimony gainst the church of Rome through all this dark tiivc. The place where they duel was the Vaut 'is or the five vallies of Pied- mont, a very mountainous country between Italy and France. The place where they lived was compassed about with those exceedingly high mountains called the Alps, which were almost impassable. There this people lived for many ages as it were alone in a state of separation from all the world, having very little to do with any other people. And there they served God in the ancient purity of his worship and never submitted to the Church of Rome. It is supposed that this people first betook themselves to this desert secret place among the mountains, to hide themselves from the severity of the Heathen persecutions which were before Constan- tine the great." Some suppose these people to have re- treated into these peaceful vales first, in the 7th centu- ry,f that they might live free from oppression and en- joy securely their religious modes of worship. But at whatever period this settlement took place, the influ- ence of the Holy Spirit is very manifest in the whole * His. Red. 103. + Vide Mosla-im's Eccle. Hi?. Vol. iii. paje 117, alsoNesbit's Cli. History, 189. 270 4 VIEW OF transaction. The corruption, oppression and misery, of the voi Id, under the dominion of papal tyranny and darkness, cannot be expressed. By the special direction and agency of the divine Spirit, the truth, in principle and in practice, was happily preserved in the hearts and lives of these secluded people. " Their fundamental doctrine was, that the authority of Scripture is supreme, that this was, the sole rule forjudging in matters of reli- gion, and that whatever disagreed therewith must be re- jected. They declared that the decrees of councils were only to be so far approved as they might agree with the word of God. They asserted that the reading and knowledge of Scripture were necessary for all and the privilege of the laity as well as the clergy. Their rules of practice were extremely rigid, and austere, and their aim and intention was to reduce every thing in re- ligion to the standard and discipline of the primitive church. They held almost the same opinions as those who are now called reformers and Calvinists."* When their peaceful retirement and their true Christian faith and character became known to the supporters of the papal hierarchy, in the 13th century, the storm of perse- cution soon burst upon them. Thousands perished by cruel deaths and multitudes fled for safety to almost ev- ery part of Europe disseminating the truth of Christ, wherever they went, thus preparing the way for that en- tire deliverance, from the reign of oppression and dark- ness, which speedily followed. In no instance, in the history of the church, do we see more clearly displayed the blessed efficacy of the Holy Spirit, preserving from extinction among men the precious light of Heaven, * See Nesbit's Ecc, His. 8 vo.— 190 — 1. REVIVALS. 2Tl guarding, refreshing and sustaining, from age to age and from century to rentury, the elements of truth and the graces of piety. This was a uniform, progressive and triumphant work of God which demands the wonder and the praise of every succeeding i:ge. The dispersion of the Waldenses, the diffusion of their pure knowledge and the influence ot their spotless lives, through surrounding kingdoms, contributed much to hasten and facilitate the glorious reformation, in the be- ginning of the 16th century. This was indeed a season of extensive excitement, revival and reform among the na- tions, in which the grace of God was manifested, so ex- traordinarily, as to awaken the admiration ot mankind. In the words of that sera we read of no sudden out-pour- ings of the divine Spirit upon congregations and commu- nities, ofno powerful and extensiveawakenings among sin- ners, in which thousands or hundreds, are in a short period brought home to Christ from the brink of death. Such triumphs God has bestowed upon other days. His work, at the time referred to, assumed a different char- acter. A local revival in some solitary corners of Eu- rope would have been local in its effects and not attend- ed with any great and beneficent result on the con- dition of others. This was not the plan of God. The world was in darkness : thick darkness rested on the minds of the people. It was necessary that the work of God's Spirit should commence in the hearts of some in- dividuals, of exalted and towering genius — of ardent and intrepid spirit — of patient and persevering temper — of quick discernment and extensive forecast — who should become leaders in the gre?t enterprise — enlightening and emancipating a wretched world. Infinite wisdom laid the plan : God's victorious Spirit and grace accomplished 272 A VIEW OK what his wisdom had conceived. WicklifF, Hu's, Je-' rome, Luther, Melancthon, Zuinglius, Calvin and multi- tudes like minded, rise up, in quick succession, as stars in a dark night : and through them the light of the Spirit of heaven beams upon the darkness of the world. The Spirit of the Lord filled their hearts and supported them in all their conflicts. Animated by his invigora- ting power, " they wrought righteousness, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, en- dured trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, of bonds and imprisonment, turned to flight the armies of the aliens, subdued kingdoms" and courted the crown of martyrdom. The Spirit of revival and reform spread from province to province and from land to land. It visited the humble cottage : — it inspired the battled host : — it diffused itself through the councils of nations : — it entered the habitations of the great: — and it some- times ascended the earthly throne. The "gospel came not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance." 1. Thes. i. 5. Early in the 17th century, it pleased the Lord to com- mence a peculiar work of grace in the central parts of Germany, near which the glorious reformation orig na- ted. Many pious and learned men, of Jena, Lunen- burgh, Strasbugh, Wittemberg, Coburg, Kail, Erfurt, Hanover, and Rostock, were employed in producing and carrying on this happy revival. They were brought at first to mourn the decay of piety in the hearts and lives of God's professing people and to attempt, by publishing pious, appropriate tracts, to arouse the minds of Christians in general to the same subject. These means were employed in the Divine Ilan'i, to revivepro- REVIVALS. fessors, and also to convert many sinners to God. About 1G62, one of these recently published pious pie- ces, was made the means of opening the eyes and inter- esting the heart, of Dr. Spener, on the subject of reli- gion, after which he became a champion in the cause of godliness. His private counsels, his public ministra- tions, and his pious publications, were remarkably pros- pered by the Spirit of God, to the enlargement and sanc- tification of the churches committed to his care, in Francfort, Dresden and Berlin. In Francfort, he open- ed a private conference for the instruction and comfort of impressed and anxious souls. To that meeting, in- quirers for Christ were invited to come " to bring forth any experience or spiritual meditation that was upon their minds." Multitudes of citizens and strangers flocked to this meeting intended for private devotion, and the Lord made it a place of mercy to many souls. So great was the fame of these divine operations, that the evangelic pastor was frequently honoured and en- couraged by the attendance of professors of univer- sities, ministers of state, electors and princes. This work was carried into Leipsick and Hall, through the labours of the Rev. Mr. Schade, and professor Frank. Biblical schools, meetings for expounding and reciting the Scriptures, were made effectual means of promoting this good work. Religion in Germany assumed a new form. The walk of piety and the worship of God be- came emphatically marked with knowledge, zeal and devotion. * A few years previous to thi ! in Germany, pious company under the influence of the Spirit of God * Vide Historical Collection by John Gillies, Vol. I. book, iii. Cli. 4. 35 "274 A VIEW OF arrived in New-England and commenced the settling of that new and uncultivated country. The divine Spirit waspoured out upon them very remarkably from the begin- ning and the divine presence was peculiarly aiforded to these colonists for a considerable time.* They were in general descended immediately from the first English re- formers. Their religious principles and habits were of the most strict and rigid nature. Difficulties and op- pressions at home, rendered their circumstances unhap- py : and by an impulse, from heaven, they simultane- ously resolved to cross the ocean, to settle in a wilder- ness, there to become a covenant people of God, and to worship Him according to the dictates of their pure, sim- ple and fervent piety. This devout little company, of Christian brethren, soon became a multitude. " And to the great glory of God be it spoken, there never was perhaps before seen such a body of pious people togeth- er on the face of the earth. "f The Spirit of God was copiously imparted to the successive groups of emigrants that arrived from different parts of Europe, and to the children and youth of the colonies. Churches were es- tablished in great number and in rapid succession, and filled with fervent and adoring worshippers. In 1629, the leaders of this pious settlement entered publicly in- to solemn covenant;]; with God and with one another. " The discourse, not only of the aged, but of the youth also, then, was, — how shall we go to Heaven ? Have I true grace wrought in my heart ? Have I Christ or not ? O, how did men and women, young and old pray * 1620—1650. t Se<» Prince's Christian History. \ The instrument, drawn up and signed on this occasion, is preserved ir. deal's His. of the Puritans, A. D. 16^9. REVIVALS. H75 for grace, beg for Christ, in those days ! And it was not in vain : many were converted and others were eslub lished in believing, many joined the seveial churches, where they lived, confessing their faith publicly and showing before iill the assembly their experiences of the workings of God's Spirit, in their hearts, to bring them to Christ."* It was at this period, that Eliot, the pious pastor oi Roxbury, near Boston, denominated "the apostle to the American Indians," commenced his arduous and sucess- fulf labours among the natives of this country. He was aided in this service by the Rev. Messrs. John Cotton and Samuel Treat, and the ministrations of all were greatly blessed to these illiterate and wretched heathen. In the Atlantic skirts of Massachusetts and in Rhode- Island, especially on Martha's Vineyard, very soon, sev- eral Indian congregations were established, consisting of many hopefully pious professors, baptized persons and serious inquirers after salvation in Jesus Christ. The Lord communicated his grace in peculiar abun- dance to his people in the colonies, to support and com- fort their hearts amidst the trials inseparable from their state. He added daily to his church such as gave evi- dence of faith, and made that a long continued and mem- orable period of refreshing from his blessed presence. In Windham, Connecticut, 1721, the dispensation of the gospel was attended with extraordinary power, and made instrumental in bringing home to Christ, a consid- erable harvest of souls. Persons of all ages and many of dissolute life, were suddenly awakened and deeply impressed, so that through divine grace, in a very short time, eighty souls were added to the Lord. * Prince's Chris. History. + See Mather's life of Eliot 2T6 A VIEW OK This was followed at the close of the year 1?30, by a very remarkable manifestation of heavenly grace, at Free- hold, under the ministry of the Rev. John Tennent and his successor. Early in the settlement of this place a num- ber of intelligent and pious Scotch people fixed their residence there. Notwithstanding the salutary influ- ence of their example and exertions, religion gradually declined. And the prospect was very unpromising when Mr. Tennent commenced his labours among that people. But he soon expressed a strong belief " that Christ had a large harvest of souls to gather in that con- gregation." His ministerial labours were peculiarly prospered. The place of public worship was crouded with attendants, who listened as for their lives ; and the hearers seemed to behave in God's house as if they stood at his bar. The minister and the people were often wet with tears. It was not unusual to see many persons in time of service sighing and sobbing with deep agitation. Some were carried out of the public assemblies, as if dead, overwhelmed by the majesty and glory of the divine sanctuary. In consequence of the death of this eminent- ly pious and excellent minister of Jesus, this congrega- tion, with the approbation of the people, was very soon placed under the pastoral care of the Rev. William Ten- nent. Soon after accepting the charge, this unassum- ing man of God observed, that the Lord had sent him to reap that on which he had bestowed but little labour. The gracious work was greatly advanced by his pious and faithful efforts, and the fruits of this season of mercy were very abundant. The subjects of grace were led to Christ by a strong and deep conviction of sin, guilt and danger. They saw their condemned state : — they ac- knowledged the justice of God : — they felt and mourn- ed their helplessness : — and, so, they were compelled to KEY LVA1 ,B. seek relief by faith in Christ alone. The great doc- trines of the gospel, which aljasc the sinner and exalt the free grace of God, became dear and precious to their hearts. They gloried only in the Lord who had loved them and given himself for them. They spoke with so much clearness, propriety and affection, of di- vine things, that every hearer was convinced the Lord had been their teacher. This work of God was entire- ly free from enthusiasm and extravagance. Divine grace was truly illustrated and magnified therein the con- version of many sinners and quickening of many believ- ers. Very soon after this pleasing event in Freehold, Northampton, was made the theatre upon which the op- erations of the divine Spirit were exhibited more strik- ingly and effectually, than in any other instance record- ed in the 18th century. This spot had long been high- ly favoured of God. The Rev. Eleazer Mather, the first pastor there, was settled in 1669, and his ministry was crowned with extensive success. Rev. Solomon Stoddard who succeeded him in 1672, continued his ministerial labours till 1728, in distinguished honour and usefulness. He enjoyed five successive seasons of the out-pouring of the Spirit, which he denominated har- vests, inasmuch as each, in its turn, produced a consider- able increase of church members, and of vital piety. The Rev. Jonathan Edwards, who was the human agent employed by God to begin and carry on the signal work of grace which followed, in 1734, &c. possessed knowl- edge, piety and faithfulness, in a pre-eminent degree. His earnest efforts to produce among his people a sacred observance of the Sabbath, his introducing and encourag- ing religions meetings among the youth — and his plain 278 A VIEW OF and solemn preaching on the doctrines of grace, espe- cially justification by faith ; — were the particular means first used, by God, to carry conviction to the hearts of sinners. The following plain and solemn account of the work that followed is extracted from President Ed- ward's Narrative* on this subject: — " A great and ear- nest concern about the great things of religion and the eternal world became universal in all parts of the town and among persons of all ages : the noise among the dry bones waxed louder and louder ; all other talk but about spiritual and eternal things was soon thrown by. Other discourse than of the things of religion would scarcely be tolerated in any company. The minds of people -were wonderfully taken off from the world. It was treated amongst us as a thing of very little consequence. The temptation now seemed to lie on that hand to ne- glect worldly affairs too much and to spend too much time in the immediate exercise of religion. The only thing in their view was to get the kingdom of heaven and every one appeared pressing into it. The engag- edness of their hearts in this great concern could not be hid : it appeared in their very countenances. It was then a dreadful thing amongst us, to lie out of Christ in danger every day of dropping into hell. There was scarcely a single person in the town either old or young, that was left unconcerned about the great things of the eternal world. The work of conversion was carried on in a most astonishing manner, and increased more and more : souls did as it were come by flocks to Jesu6 Christ. From day to day, for many months together, might be seen evident instances of sinners brought out * See Prince's Chris. His. No. 15, 16. See extract from that Narrative, Gillie's collections vol. ii. page 35. REVIVALS. 279 of darkness into marvellous light, and delivered out of an horrible pit, and from the miry clay, and set upon a rock, with a new song of praise to God in their mouths. This work of God, as it was carried on, and the number of true saints multiplied, soon made a glori- ous alteration in the town ; so that in the spring and summer following, in the year 1735, the town seemed to he full of the presence of God. There were remarka- ble tokens of God's presence in almost every house. It was a time of joy in families, on account of salvation's being brought unto them : parents rejoicing over their children, as new born, and husbands over their wives, and wives over their husbands. God's days were a de- light, and his tabernacles were amiable. Our public as- semblies were then beautiful: the congregation Mas alive in God's service, every hearer eager to drink in the words of the minister as they came from his mouth: the assembly in general were from time to time in tears, while the word was preached ; some weeping with sor- row and distress, others with joy and love, others with pity and concern for the souls of their neighbours.'" Many villages and congregations in the surrounding country, shared richly in this copious effusion of the Spirit of God. About the year 1738, the apostolic Whitefield com- menced his preaching tours through these states. The effect was wonderful. The Divine Spirit seemed hap- pily to accompany him, and to prosper his fervent and unwearied labours. Thousands traced their first reli- gious impressions and their eternal hopes, to his power- ful and awakening sermons, in the hands of God. The period of his journies may be viewed as a continued season of awakening among the thoughtless, and revival 2ii0 A VIEW OF among the pious. His visits of love and power, were extended to the whole country : he preached in most of the important towns and villages, and often in groves and in the open fields. The fruits of his labours, by di- vine grace, were made abundant and precious, through all the provinces. A few years after these great successes, the Rev. Gil- bert Tennent was induced to visit New-England, in the same evangelizing service. He did not possess so ex- tensively as Mr. Whitefield, the natural powers of elo- quence, but the grace of God rested upon him, and gave astonishing efficacy to his ministrations, in many places. He seemed to go forth in the name of the Most High, armed with the sword of the Spirit, and clothed with sal- vation. In the city of Boston, many hundreds, some judged thousands, were deeply impressed by his dis- courses. Many children were deeply convinced, and some received consolation. In Charlestown and Cam- bridge, great numbers were awakened and hopefully converted. Some very aged, many in the prime of life, some very young, several students in Harvard college, and a number of people of colour, shared this saving in- fluence. Mr. Tennent's sermons were made " the wis- dom of God and the power of God," to the conviction and conversion of many sinners, in Ipswich, Portsmouth, Marblehead, Chelsea, Hampton, Plymouth, Bristol, Providence, Stonington, New-London, Lyme, Guilford, Tauntoni New-Haven, Stratford, Newport, and Milford. Through all the region from New- Jersey to New-Hamp- shire, the Spirit of the Lord was poured out powerfully upon the principal towns and villages. It was a glori r ous triumph of the Son of God among sinful men. Ma- ny pious and excellent persons appeared to entertain a REVIVALS. 281 jo} ful persuasion, that the latter day glory was arising upon tliem. In 17'3,\ the Spirit of God commenced a glorious work of awakening among- sinners, and refreshing among Christians, in the united congregations of Amwell, Hopewell and Lawrence, under the pastoral service of the Rev. Mr. Rowland. His faithful labours, in preach- ing and visiting, were made the means of beginning this gracious work. It commenced in Amwell, May 17 0. A discourse upon these words, "The Master is come and calleth for thee," was made powerful and awaken- ing to many souls. A sermon at another time, on the following .passage, "All things are ready, come to the marriage," proved sweetly encouraging and comforting to many agitated spirits. The power of God's grace was exercised remarkably, in a few instances. October 6th, 1736, at a night meeting, only about fifteen persons assembled, eleven of whom were deeply convinced of their misery, and brought to cry out so distressingly, that Mr. Rowland thought it prudent to conclude the service. When he asked them afterwards the reason of their loud and awful cries, some answered, "that they saw hell opening before them, and themselves ready to fall into it :" others added, " That they w re struck with such a sense of their sinfulness, that ti:ey were afraid the Lord would never have mercy on them." Another of these special seasons, was December 30, 1739; when the Lord was pleased to manifest his grace exceedingly, through the whole service. Some hardened creatures were deeply convinced of the truth and beauty of reli- gion. Some persons presents-rid, " they never \» ou!d forget this day, in which God had been so gracious to them." 36 282 a view of In Lawrence, the work of grace commenced and pro- gressed in a manner somewhat different. April bth, 1740, at publio service, the subject was the gospel net, Mat. xiii. 47 ; and many were deeply humbled before the Lord. The whole assembly, believers and unbe- lievers, seemed to be much moved and affected by di- vine influence. On the 24th of July, the same year, public service seemed to produce a lively and sweet impression on the minds of hearers, especially on Chris- tians. After public worship, some as they were return- ing home, stopped at the house of a Christian friend oa the way. The company, at first small, was soon increas- ed to forty. An address to them, on the firs* verses of the fiftieth Psalm, was attended with peculiar effect, and "the Spirit of the Lord was made to work by it upon all that were present. The love of God's people was uncommonly inflamed to Jesus Christ ; their views of his majesty and glory were much enlarged ; their long- ings after him much stirred up ; their zeal for God's glory enkindled anew. And as to the unconverted that were present, they received very clear discoveries of their undone state by nature. This was followed with the mighty power of God, in a sermon, the next eve- ning, to a large congregation, in the same town." In Lawrence, August 3d, " God was pleased to magnify his grace, in visiting many poor sinners. He opened their eyes, to see themselves without Christ, and with- out hope in the world : their convictions were attended with great horror and trembling and loud weeping. Many did continue crying in the most doleful manner along the road, in their way home, and it was not in the power of man to prevail with them to refrain ; for the word of the Lord remained like a fire upon their hearts. REVIVALS. 281i Respecting the nature of this work, their views of heart corruption, their distance from Cod aud their having lived so long without him, were very clear and affect- ing: their hardness and unbelief, their ignorance and blindness, pressed very close upon them : their need of Christ and his Spirit was such, that there was no rest to be taken in any thing here below, until they did obtain an interest in Jesus Christ, and receive his Spirit, to pu- rify and sanctify their hearts."* While God was performing these things in Am well and Lawrence, he commenced an abundant-out-pouring- of his Spirit, in the congregation and town of Newark, New-Jersey, peculiarly upon the youth of that place. Christians in general were refreshed, and multitudes of young sinners laid under deep and solemn con- victions. This divine work progressed steadily, through the months of November, December and January. In the following March, the "whole town was brought under an uncommon concern about their eternal inter- ests, and about that time, a considerable number expe- rienced a saving change." No corresponding excitement was felt at Elizabeth- Town, though very near, till June, 1740, when the work at Newark considerably declined. The eloquent and flaming Wtitefield, had preached there just before, it was believed, in vain : and the profound and pious Dickin- son, their stated pastor, had appeared to labour with ve- ry little success. But God's set time to visit this people in mercy, had now come. The windows of heaven were suddenly opened, and a glorious shower of grace was sent down upon them. As in Newark, the impres- * Vide Letter of Mr. Rowland, in Gillie's Coil's, vol. 2, p. 138. 234 A VIEW o* sion was made at first principally upon the young. The account of this work, by the great and venerable pastor, is very interesting - : — "Having at that time invited the young people to hear a sermon, there was a numerous congregation convened, which consisted chiefly of our youth, though there were many others with them. I preached to them a plain, practical sermon, without any special liveliness or vigour: for I was then in a re- markably dead and dull frame, till enlivened by a sud- den and deep impression, which visibly appeared upon the congregation in general. There was no crying out or falling down, as elsewhere happened, but the inward distress and concern of the audience, discovered itself by their tears, and by an audible sobbing and sighing in almost all parts of the assembly. There appeared such tokens of a solemn and deep concern as I. never before saw in any congregation. We had no instances among us of such sudden conversions as I have heard of else- where: but our new converts were all for a considera- ble time under a law work, before they were brought to any satisfying views of their interest in Christ, and the favour of God. It was remarkable, that they who were formerly eminent for religion, were now greatly quick- ened and revived, and some of them had now such joy- ful manifestat'oMs of God's love to their souls, as they had never hefore experienced."* The regular worship of God, was introduced into the Northern Neck of Virginia, about 1730, through the lau- dable exertions of Mr. John Organ, a pious schoolmas- ter, of that place from Scotland, and a church was or- ganized there through the instrumentality of the Rev. Mr. Anderson. * Vide Gillie's Coil's, vol. 2. p. !4o. REVIVALS. 286 In 1 742, the divine work which had prospered so glo- riously in the eastern states, was carried by the divine Spirit into some parts of Pennsylvania, and more espe- cially, into Hanover, in the state of Virginia. The manner of its commencing '.here was very extraordinary and interesting. Mr. S mmel Morris, a planter of dis- tinction, residing in Hanover, providentially obtained some old, pious books, from reading which he became solemnly concerned for his soul's salvation. His im- pressions were cherished by the divine Spirit till he found hope and comfort in Christ. Prompted by the Spirit of true piety, he invited his neighbours to come to his house, that he might read to them out of the pre- cious volumes* which he believed had providentially fallen into his hands and which had been, he humbly- trusted, so graciously blessed to his everlasting interests. His neighbours attended numerously and very soon, many were solemnly impressed and made hopefully the subjects of recovering grace. When his own house became too small for the crouds that attended, a more convenient building was prepared for their accommoda-' tion, which Avas known extensively by the name of Mr. Morris's R-adijig House. Soon after this arrangement was made, the leadersof this company ofanxious inquirers and devout worshippers, got some knowledge of the Rev. William R'lhinson, a missionary of the presbytery of New-Brunswick, who entered Virginia and preached at a place not very remote from the Reading House. Mes- sengers were dispatched to invite Mr. Robinson to come * The books from time to time used in this manner, were Boston'* Fourfold State — Ijiither on the Galntians— some of Bunyan's Works — and Whitefield's Sermons ; — all admirably calculated to produce a serious and lasting impression »n the mind. 286 A VIEW OF and preach to them. He yielded to their solicitation and visisted them in the fulness of the power and mercy of the gospel. '* He continued with us," says Mr. Morris in a letter on this subject, "preaching four days successively. The congregation was large the first day and vastly increased the three ensuing. *Tis hard for the liveliest imagination to form an image of the con- dition of the assembly on these glorious days of the Son of man. Such as had been hungering for the word before were lost in an agreeable surprise and astonishment, and some could not refrain from publicly declaring their transport. Many that came through curiosity were pricked to the heart and but (ew in the numerous assem- blies on these four days appeared unaffected. They returned alarmed with apprehensions of their dangerous condition, convinced of their former entire ignorance of religion and anxiously inquiring what they should do to be saved."* After this, the private use of the means of grace became more general and more effectual there. A spirit of inquiry and concern, on the subject of reli- gion seemed to pervade the whole country. Soon after the Rev. Messrs. Blair, Roan, Tennent and Finley preached at Hanover with great effect. Whitefield spent several days in the same region, and his sermons were made the means of giving additional earnestness to those already impressed and of awakening others to seek the Lord. In a short season the Lord was pleased to send these people a pastor after his own heart, in the Rev. Samuel Davies,f under whose able and faithful la- * See this letter of Mr. Morris, Gillie's Col. vol. 2. page 331. f Afterwards President of Princeton college, New-Jersey. REVIVALS. 2o7 hours the cause of the Redeemer was greatly advanced in that part of Virginia.* About the same time and during a few of the following- years, the Lord was pleased to display his power glori- ously among the natives of this country, through the missionary services of the pious and indefatigable Rev. David Brainerd. These labours were commenced and continued some time exclusively among the tribes on the .Delaware and Susquehanna rivers, and they Avere at- tended with many useful and happy effects on those ig- norant and savage people. But his efforts among the Indian settlements at Crosweek's, in New-Jersey, If 45, were blessed in a much more remarkable degree. His own humble representation of the success with which he was honoured in this important mission, is very inter- esting. "I discoursed to the Indians, at the place where I have usually preached to them. There appeared no- thing very remarkable till near the close of my dis- course, and then divine truths were attended with a sur- prising influence. There were scarce three out of for- ty that could refrain from tears and bitter cries. They all, as one, seemed in an agony of soul, to obtain an in- terest in Christ. Jt was surprising to see how their hearts seemed to be pierced with the tender and melting- invitations of the gospel." On the 8th of August, when Mr. Brainerd preached to them again, " the power of God seemed to descend upon the assembly, like a rushing mighty wind, and with an astonishing energy, bore down all before it. * I stood,' says he, « amazed at * For a more ample view of the origin and progress of religion in \ ; see Notes on Virginia by Thomas Jefferson, Esq, Query xvii Memoirs of tie Rev. John Rodgers, D.D. by Samuel Miller, D.D. Chapter ii. 288 A VIEW OF the influence which seized the audience, almost univer- sally, and could compare it to nothing mure aptly than the irresistible force of a mighty torrent or swelling de- luge. Old men and women, who had been drunken wretches for many years, and some little children, not more than six or seven years of age, appeared in dis- tress for their souls, as well as persons of middle age." A considerable number of these poor perishing crea- tures, were brought to a saving knowledge and accep- tance of Christ Jesus. An observation of this humble and heavenly minded missionary, shall close this ac- count : — " God's manner of working upon them, appear- ed so entirely supernatural, and above means, that I could scarce believe he used me as an instrument, or what I spake, as means of carrying on his work. I seemed to do nothing, and indeed to have nothing to do, but stand still and see the salvation of God."* During the ensuing fall and winter, a considerable congrega- tion was collected and formed. Many adults and chil- dren were baptized, and twenty-three natives were ad- mitted to the holy communion of the Lord's supper, whose lives were exemplary and honourable to their Christian profession. To avoid awakening invidious feelings, and to keep within proper limits, our sketch of revivals must close here; but we leave the power and mercy of God in their victorious progress through the church and through the world. God has chosen the close of the eighteenth century and the beginning of the nineteenth, as the sea- son in which to display, with peculiar sovereignty and glory, the riches of his grace. He is from year to year, * For the interesting particulars of this mission, see Life of Brair.erd. by Prei ident Edwards. REVIVALS. 289 riding forth in the chariot of his everlasting' gospel, con- quering and to conquer. Towns and cities, cultivated plains and unfrequented deserts, continents and islands, submit before him and hail his approach ! On the whole, from the preceding view, it appears, that God has always adapted his dispensations to the condi. tion of his church, to the state of the world, to the ne- cessities of his people, and to the nature of his own prom- ises and purposes respecting the salvation of men. Sometimes we see almighty power adorably exerted for the overthrow of unbelief, for the awakening and con- version of sinners, for the separation and establishment of holy communities to worship and praise the Lord, where ignorance, vice and superstition had lately held their throne. Sometimes we see the Father of mercies deigning to visit, to collect, reanimate and cheer a fee- ble, scattered, declining group of his own people, pre- serving and invigorating the things that remain, lest they may wholly perish. In some instances, we see the hearts of saints and sinners both deeply and simultaneously im- pressed and affected, the work of grace, happily advan- ced in many where it had been previously commenced, and effectually, begun in others, formerly under the deadly dominion of sin and guilt. Sometimes we see individuals in churches and in communities, richly re- plenished with grace, animated with noble and ardent zeal, and thus becoming, through the signal favour of heaven, leaders and champions in reforming, reviving and advancing God's earthly kingdom, on a small or an extended scale. And sometimes the divine Spirit has been afforded abundantly, in dark periods of the world, to companies living in retirement and scclu=ion, to en able them to resist error, to pre serve " the faith delive" U7 290 H. VIEW OF ed to the saints" — that they may become a source oi' light, instruction and benefit to their darkened and groping fellow men. This, wherever realized, ought to be viewed as a work of God's Spirit— a steady and prevailing operation of divine grace, against the en- croachments of depravity, delusion and guilt. VA'e are not competent, with all the lights of divine revelation, to delineate with entire accuracy, the sea- sons and modes, which the Hily Spirit will observe in accomplishing the eternal purposes of grace to men. But we are encouraged to believe, that the Son of man will, at no distant period, obtain a great victory and en- joy a lasting reign in this world over moral and physic- al 'evil. In producing this salutary change, the "min- istry of reconciliation" will be the principal means em- ployed. Missionary associations — Eible and tract soci- eties — Sunday schools — institutions for the instruction of. thq deaf and dumb — missionary and theological semi- naries — prayer meetings — reformation and benevolent societies, Avill be made extensively conducive, through divine grace, to the promotion and establishment of Christ's dominion upon earth. This will be an awaken- ing and revival, infinitely extended, exalted and delight- ful, bringing boundless glory to God and gladness to men. A very interesting object to be contemplated in the new and highly improved state of morals and religion, which we anticipate, is the universal diffusion of divine knowledge. The truth of God shall every where abound. Now ignorance, error and superstition pre- vail, entirely, over a great part of the earth, and hold their dominion, lamentably in the most enlightened countries. How many nations are without God and REVIVALS. U91 without Christ in the world, sitting in the d;irk vale of the shadow of spiritual death, perishing for lack of knowledge ! Then, the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the tdord as the waters cover the sea.* Jesus Christ, now so unknown and neglected, will be the object of universal inquiry and admiration. The gospel will be possessed and read, by every people and in every tongue, us the only source of true wisdom and enjoyment: — it will be received and cherished as the word of God which worketh effectually in them that be- lieve,^ producing faith and penitence, obedience and holiness. In consequence of the universal diffusion of knowl- edge and piety, the principles of justice and benevo- lence, will generally prevail among men. Deception and violence shall, in a great measure, cease — fraud and malice disappear — and the great precept of our Lord be universally observed, " Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them."f How delightful, when humanity, forgiveness and mercy, shall be as widely diffused as the dews of Heaven ! — What an immense improvement in the moral face of things — what an accession to the happiness of human society — how unlike the dissentions in families and communities which distract the world — what an advance towards human perfection — how near an approach to the harmony and bliss of heaven! It will be a season of general peace on earth. The prophetic declarations on this subject, are very nume- rous and very strong : — " Nations shall beat their swords into plough-shares, and their spears into pruning * Isai. xi. 9. \l Thes. ii. 13. } Mat vli. 12 292 a view of hooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.* But they shall sit every man under his vine and under his fig tree, and none shall make them afraid. f The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the young lion and the falling together, and a little child shall lead them."J A great part of the earth, is now inhabited by' fierce, savage tribes, who delight in war and glory in shedding human blood. Ferocity and violence are cherished among them as the most honorable characteristics of their na- ture, and transmitted as an invaluable heritage, from generation to generation. But their savage passions shall be subdued by heavenly grace. The peaceful Spirit of God shall reign in their hearts and in their councils. The plundering Arab — the migratory Tar- tar — the barbarous Indian — the debased A frican§ — the brutal Hottentot, — the treacherous Malay — shall be united to the now civilized nations of the earth in joy- ful bonds of harmony, mutual confidence and recipro- cal kindness. Civil government will probably exist, in this millennial period, but receive much less attention than it does at present. It may be, and indeed, it seems not improbable, that the whole world will be governed as the Jews formerly were, under a Theocracy, God himself acting as the Supreme Magistrate and execu- ting his holy pleasure, by persons specially called and appointed. It seems evident, that there will be very little occasion for laws and civil officers, when wickedness shall * Isai. ii. 4. Mif. iv. 3. f Mic. iv. 4. \ Isai. xi. Q. § By this is raeaDt more especially the African Negro. REV1TALS. -29,'j generally cease, and righteousness every where prevail. There will arise differences of opinion between indi- viduals and communities respecting- property and rights, but these differences, it may be reasonably presumed, will be, in general, amicably adjusted by referring them to the decision of a common earthly umpire, or to God himself, who may judge and decide between the parlies. If any forms of government and codes of laws shall re- main, they will exist, principally, as a terror to the few who may persist in doing evil, and they will generally lie in a dormant state, ready to be awakened and em- ployed, if returning iniquity should require it. When we consider that diabolical* influence in tempt- ing and deceiving men, will be greatly diminished, if not entirely prevented, through this happy period — when we reflect how much more constant and vigorous, hu- man attention, to divine things, will become, when war, ci- vil government, indolent repose and schemes of ambition, of pleasure and of vice, shall cease to engross the mind and to alienate it from God — and, especially, when we realize, how abundantly and triumphantly God will pour out his Spirit into the hearts of men — we may reasonably expect that Christians will then attain to exalted and un- paralleled degrees of holiness and of maturity in every pious grace and virtue. The true worship, faithful obe- dience and ardent love of God, will occupy the hearts and lives of all ranks and ages of men. The acceptable incense of unfeigned devotion shall ascend from every habitation of men, to the F.dher of mercies. Every tongue shall break out in evangelic strains and the whole human race, in one grand chorus raise the glad song, *Rev. XX 3. 294 A. VIEW OF " Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will to men !" Physical changes, corresponding with these moral and religious improvements, it appears rational to anticipate. When the human race, universally, shall become obedi- ent and holy, it is reasonable to suppose, that the ex- tremes of heat and cold, of wet and dry, and various other evil consequences of sin, will be either totally remedied, or experienced in a much smaller degree, and that the seasons will become uniformly serene and pleasant, and the earth generally productive. It is dif- ficult indeed, to conceive how so great a change can be speedily produced. But will not the effects of human population, industry and ingenuity, carried to perfec- tion, be exceedingly great and manifest, in ameliorating and beautifying the face of the earth, in changing the ir- regularity, and in moderating the severity of the seasons? "When the vast forests and thickets, which in some pla- ces exist, come to be cut down and cleared out — when extensive morasses and swamps, in other places, shall be drained — when canals shall be cut, and streams opened, for the purpose of carrying off the offensive matter col- lected in some places, and to water other dry and thirs- ty regions of the earth — when agriculture shall be car- ried to the highest possible degree of perfection ; what inconceivable changes in the climate and fertility of the earth, will not all this create? But if human and ordi- nary means are not deemed sufficient to effect the alter- ations contemplated, why may we not expect divine in- terposition, to "comfort mankind concerning their work and the toil of their hands, because of the ground which the Lord hath cursed" ?* How easily could he pro* * Gen. v. 29. REVIVALS. 29i duce the greatest changes, by the operation of natural causes, without the appearance of any thing miracu- lous ? A small alteration in the elements above us, might easily produce the happiest consequences, all the improvements that we anticipate in the temperature and fertility of the globe. A change in the air, in the winds, in the dews, in the rains— how extensive might be its effects! how extensively might it contribute to bring about the ameliorations we predict! how readily might it make fountains of living waters break forth in deso- late places, and deserts rejoice and blossom as the rose ! When the children of men universally, shall be made sons of God, shall not the tempests, hurricanes and earthquakes, which now with awful voice declare the majesty and wrath of God, cease to agitate and desolate the earth ? The probability of this happy change in the earth, is rendered very strong, by the recollection that God, in his providence, has always acted agreeably to his ancient determination, to bestow temporal bless- ings upon those individuals and nations who were obe- dient and holy. He threatened his ancient people with earthly judgments, in case they should rebel against him : and he promised fruitful seasons, abundance and length of days, to those who should be persevering and faithful in his service. In administering his govern- ment, he acts upon the same principles still. And when mankind in general shall, through the grace of God, be restored from the ruins of the fall, then will he release the earth, in a great measure, from the curse inflicted on account of their apostacy from him. It will be no more difficult for God to repair the ruins of the earth, and to renovate the atmosphere, than it was for him af- ter the rebellion of man, whom he had placed on thi? "296 A VIEW OF globe, to mar its beauty, to interrupt its regular genial seasons, and to suspend its constant and universal fertili- ty. Thus will be fulfilled the promise of God : — " Be- hold, I create new heavens and a new earth : and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind."*' In consequence of the changes predicted, it appears highly probable, that men in general will enjoy uniform health and long life upon earth. The diseases which now afflict and destroy our race, proceed principally from the impurity of our atmosphere, the sudden transi- tions from heat to cold and wet to dry, and from the ir- regularity of our habits. But when uniform mildness shall take place in our climate, and regularity appear in the course of the seasons — when plenty shall be enjoy- ed over the face of the whole earth — and when early, habitual and general industry, piety, temperance and joy shall prevail — how extensive must be their united influence, in promoting length of days, among our frail and short lived race ! Then will the prophecy be ful- filled : '* As the days of a tree are the days of my peo- ple, and mine elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands, "f Another consequence, of the alterations we expect, will be, an immense increase in the population of the world. When the days of man shall be lengthened to the antediluvian age — when famine and pestilence shall no more devour the children of men — when the cor- rupt and cruel practices of some eastern nations of de- stroying infants and sacrificing adults through vice and superstition, shall be abandoned — when wars shall cease, and tyrants no more deluge countries in human blood — * lsa.bv. 17, f IsB.liv.22 REVIVALS. 29? when pride and excess shall disappear — when the air shall be universally pure and healthful, and the earth ex- ceedingly productive — when the waters which now hide two-thirds of the surface of the globe from our view, shall boar along- floating mansions for multitudes of our fellow creatures, deriving subsistence from their traffic with the surrounding shores, and from the bosom of the tranquil deeps beneath — how large indeed will be the number of the human race in this long and happy period ! It is really delightful also to reflect how beautiful man- land will generally become in the season of universal change and perfect reformation, here contemplated. No where do we meet with more striking and affecting dis- plays of divine wrath and of human depravity, than in the form and face of man. In some, what shocking deformity, what horrible expression of brutal passion! — In many, what want of regularity, mildness and benevolence ! — In most, what weakness and dulness ! — how little of real loveliness and goodness! — But in the improved condi- tion of things approaching, there will be a surprising and delightful amelioration of the human countenance. The irregularities and deformities, which now appear, proceed from the operation of disease and vice, either on the individuals possessing them, or from their previ- ous effects upon the parents. But when health, activi- ty, frugality, intelligence and piety shall all operate from early life and be continued from generation to generation, — what regular proportion, what elegance and dignity, of form — in the countenance, what sereni- ty, what perfection of features, what symmetry of parts, whatglowand colouring — inthe eye, what sparkling and animation, what intelligence and expression — on the 38 298 SKETCH OF whole, what elevated and transporting beauty in man, must result Horn the operation of so many causes! — Then will men probably recover in a considerable de- gree, their primeval form and comeliness. However, although delightful, beyond expression, to every be- holder, yet will tins consummate beauty be liuie val- ued. A great and corresponding- chance will take place in the occupations and employments of men. No arts of war will then be studied. There will be few physicians and probably no professors of the law. With regard to dancing masters, theatres, and stage players, the scene wit! be closed. Teachers of the truth and ministers of the gospel will be very numerous and highly honoured. Innocent and industrious traders from land to land will probably exist. There will be constant necessity for mechanical skill and labour. Cultivators of the earth will every where abound. But the chief business which will interest the feelings and occupy the hearts of mortals will be the service, the love, and the praise of God and the Redeemer. How delightful and animating the prospect with which Christian faith and hope are here presented ! Are then these grand results, these inestimable blessings, en the condition of mankind, to proceed from the gene- ral diffusion of the grace of God ? And is this to be promoted, by the diligent and faithful use of the means of grace which God has appointed in connexion with the sincere, fervent and persevering prayers of Zion and of all her children ? — In whose heart, is not the strong desire for this glorious event already enkindled ! Whose lips shall not utter fervently and constantly the evangelic prayer " Thy kingdom come"? "Even so, come Lord Jesus !" Amen. NOTE I. IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYING GOOD ENGLISH TEACHERS. Teachers of English schools have in many situations great opportunity, by their example and conversation, to influence the opinions and conduct of both parents and children. In general, they enjoy free access to the persons and families of those whose children they in- struct: — they often possess a degree of intelligence and shrewdness which give them some influence, even when radically corrupt : — and they are often, especially in retired places, among uncultivated people, who do not discriminate character nicely, considered in some de- gree as standards of correct principle and deportment. Their influence with the children, which is more certain and extensive, arises from their relation to them, au- thority over them, and constant intercourse with them. Peculiar care should therefore be exercised, by those who have the superintendence of these important insti- tutions, to prevent unprincipled, ignorant and vicious teachers, whose influence may be so pernicious in prop- agating error and vice, trom being employed in them. Trustees and all persons concerned in schools, should endeavour as far as possible, to engage, for teachers, men of such moral principles and habits, as they would 300 IMPORTANCE OF EMPLOYING wish their own children to acquire. The impression? and biases of children in regard to moral conduct, are received and formed very early. They are strongly prone to imitation. They will gradually conform themselves to the example which is daily exhibited be- fore their eyes, by one, whom they are taught to respect and obey. When children find themselves placed un- der the control and culture of immoral men, it is nei- ther unnatural nor difficult, for them to draw the infer- ence, that their parents and guardians care very little about good principles and habits, provided their chil- dren progress in their education : — this inference once made, respect for their parents and friends around them, and the natural propensity to evil, will lead to another more pernicious, that moral principles and virtues are things of little value, in themselves; and then these young learners and reasoners are prepared to become prompt imitators of vice, and apt disciples in the school of iniquity. Besides, what security is there, in employing men of corrupt morals, or even of suspicious character, that they will conscientiously and faithfully endeavour, to forward their little pupils in obtaining the elements of education. How great must the difference be, in the discharge of the duties of their station, between teach- ers who have no characters to support, who are desti- tute of moral principle, and whose minds are already broken down and their hearts hardened by vice — and teachers who have a character at stake and prospects before them, whose powers and feelings, principles and hopes, are alive and active ! Whenever a teacher is wanted, one ought to be sought for who possesses the necessary moral as well as literary qualifications — a GOOD ENGLISH TEACHERS. 301 man who will probably be actuated not merely by a regard to present convenience, interest or necessity, but by a regard to character, by just views of his own fu- ture interests, by feelings of rectitude and a sense of duty. Negligence on this subject is often attended with (he most injurious and unhappy consequences* NOTE J. PROPRIETY OF USING THE BIBLE IN ENGLISH SCHOOLS. It cannot be too deeply and seriously regretted, that the Bible h:is been, so generally, excluded from common use, in our English schools, and that many judicious and even pious people, should have, unwisely and un- happily, concurred in this infidel measure, unconscious of its corrupt origin and destructive tendency. "What book is so suitable to be put into the hands of a child, as the Sacred Scriptures ? — Children very early manifest a degree of curiosity, respecting the origin, the history, and the destination, of this world, which, from the Bible, may be fully, agreeably and profitably, gratified. Here also are revealed those sacred truths, and princi- ples of duty, a knowledge of which it is of the highest importance, that their uninformed and susceptible minds, should very early acquire. The grandeur, nov- elty and variety contained in sacred history, are found to be, in general, extremely interesting to young minds. No other book presents scenes so tender and affecting as many recorded in the Old and New Testament. Thestyle and language of Scripture, are various, adapted peculiar- ly to the different capacities, ages and improvements of children and youth: and in general the plainness, of the truths conveyed, corresponds with the simplicity of 304 PROPRIETT OF USING THE BIBLE the style. A judicious and attentive teacher can, there- fore profitably, use the sacred volume for the purpose of teaching his little learners how to read ; and he may lead them gradually onward and upward, as they ad- vance in years, knowledge and reflection. The divine account of the work of creation and of the fall of man, of the life of the patriarchs and of the first migrations and settlements of men, is wonderfully simple and easy to be understood. The book of Proverbs abounds with wisdom and piety, in so plain, concise and comprehen- sive a form, that a child of few years, may here by a mere exercise of memory, acquire in a few short senten- ces, a most valuable mass of useful knowledge, on eve- ry subject, of human life and conduct. The Psalms of David are pious, familiar and devout, calculated to teach the infant tongue to utter the penitential com- plaint, the prayer of faith and the praises of God. The gospel history possesses every quality necessary to please and interest, to inform and affect, to impress and improve, the youngest and most untutored reader. The writings of the prophets are figurative, elevated and sublime in sentiment and expression, adapted to strong- er powers and higher improvements. The Epistles of Paul, which exhibit the mighty movements of a strong and inspired intellect, exploring and developing diffi- cult and solemn subjects, afford scope for the exercise of more vigour and cultivation of mind. The Bible, so full of every thing sacred, attracting and useful, can be purchased on terms incomparably more cheap and ad- vantageous than any other book. Considerations of propriety and interest, of utility and duty, call there- fore imperiously for the restoration of the sacred vol- ume to common use as a school book. IN ENGLISH SCHOOLS. 30/i God iu infinite wisdom and mercy is now remedying the evils resulting from human delusion and remissness on this subject, by causing Bibles to be multiplied and diffused with great abundance and rapidity through ev- ery part of our land and through the whole world. While we co-operate with God and associate with men, in this great and benevolent work, shall we not give the sacred volume to our dear children as soon as they be- come capable of acquiring a knowledge of its sacred truths? The objection sometimes urged, that children acquire a disrespect and disgust for the Bible, by being com- pelled to use it, so much, in the beginning and progress of their education, is believed to be unsupported by fact and by rational reflection. The knowledge they thus obtain, has a direct tendency to form in their minds cor- rect views and favourable impressions respecting reveal- ed truth and human duty, and often produces effects most salutary and happy to them through life. The truth is, with regard to the greater part of those chil- dren who compose common country schools, the knowl- edge of the Bible which they thus acquire, by reading it as an exercise, is almost the only knowledge they ev- er obtain, of this inestimable volume. How inconceiv- ably important then is it, that it should be daily in theii hands, through all their period of instruction ! — In rela- tion to others of more favoured circumstances and bet- ter prospects, the knowledge of sacred truth thus ac- quired, and the familiar acquaintance, with scripture history and scripture language, thus obtained, facilitate all their subsequent religious studies, and lay a founda- tion for the most interesting and useful improvements in the knowledge of God, and of his revealed will. 39 NOTE K. EXCELLENCE OF THE BIBLE CLASS SYSTEM, Among the numerous plans that have been devised and adopted, in recent years, for the diffusion of scriptural knowledge, for the propagation of evangelic principles, and the promotion of pure morals, among all classes of people and especially among the youth, there is none which promises advantages, so immediate, important and extensive, as that of " forming classes of young people for studying and reciting the Bible." The subjects of instruction suggested in the recom- mendation of the general assembly, are very various and comprehensive — suited to the different ages, capa- cities, improvements, and circumstances, of the pupils. The particular manner of conducting this new and im- proved department of pious education, is judiciously left to the discretion of those who may have the super- intendence and management of it, in individual cases. But under whatever different modifications it may be attempted, if the spirit of the system be retained and cherished — if the plan be generally adopted and pursu- ed with any considerable degree of care and persever- ance, it will produce results most beneficial to the minds and manners of the classes themselves, and gradu- ally on the whole body of the church and state of soci- ety. 308 EXCELLENCE OF Till; If knowledge be desirable, the noblest, the purest and the best knowledge, is most desirable. If this knowledge be important either for the purpose of use- fulness or of enjoyment, of being guarded against error and vice, or established and advanced in ways of well doing, the sooner it is acquired the better. " Wherewith shall a young man cleanse his way ? By taking heed thereto according to thy word." Ps. 116. Is there not a strong propensity in the great mass of Christian people, to derive their religious knowledge and faith, credulously and implicitly, from the repre- sentations of men, and the public discourses of ministers of the gospel, without " searching the Scriptures, wheth- er those things are so V — This system of instruction, so far as introduced, tends to bring all concerned as teach- ers or learners, of every age, directly to the original source of knowledge and fountain of true light, to see with their own eyes and learn with their own under- standings. Is it not found from experience and observation, that far the greater part of persons in the inferior and even middle ranks of fortune, who become heads of families and engaged in the cares of the world, enjoy very little opportunity for acquiring knowledge and for general im- provement — that from want of early habits of attention and some elementary principles of pious cultivation, on which to commence, they have very little inclination and capacity for study — and that consequently, they remain in general deplorably destitute of this most useful and in- dispensable knowledge ? This plan of instruction is in- tended and calculated to remedy these evils — to store the youthful mind with these elementary principles — to create these early habits of inquiry and reflection — BIBLE CLASS SYSTEM. 309 and thus to furnish and prepare men to proceed with rase and comfort, in the various relations and duties of life. Is it not obvious, that the ministry of reconciliation, to be received and enjoyed in all its excellence and ad- vantage, requires previous acquaintance with the sub- jects of public discussion and in various respects, pre- paratory, culture and discipline, of the mind and char- acter ? — How admirably is the method here proposed, calculated to furnish the improvements, dispositions and qualifications necessary, profitably to attend on the preaching of the gospel ! Is it desirable, as far as possible to give uniformity, in faith and practice, in form and spirit, to the Presby- terian Church and body ? What could more happily and effectually tend to make them of one heart and mind, than this mode, of instruction, commenced and continued through the whole church, by pastors and teachers, for the most part, possessing similar views of Scripture his- tory and doctrine, and formed on the same evangelic Christian model ! — Perhaps one of the greatest advantages resulting from this study will consist in bringing youth, early, to em- ploy their thoughts on serious and sacred subjects, to search the Scriptures, inquire into their meaning and reflect upon their excellence and importance. By the study of the divine word, the youthful mind may be early brought to possess just and elevating views of the infinite God, in his works of creation providence and grace — be disposed and enabled to trace his wisdom, power and beneficence through the lapse of past ages — and be led to recognise Jehovah in the revolutions and events of every year and bear within it solemn impres- S10 EXCELLENCE OF THI sionsofhis infinite perfection and awful majesty. In this manner the subjects of duty, the realities of futu- rity, and the idea of personal concern in this great sys- tem of revelation, will be made more near and impres- sive to the understanding and heart. From a general view of the subject, and from several years experience of its operation on the youthful pupil, is there not also good reason to hope that the Bible stu- dy may be made a substitute for many of the vain and frivolous amusements, whose prevalence is so detri- mental and deplorable? How delightful would it be, could the subjects of Bible recitation be made the theme of social converse and friendly interview, in the occa- sional meetings and assemblies of the young ! i Christian pastors, who faithfully pursue this plan of instruction, will soon have the happiness to see around them, considerable numbers of individuals, instructed and accomplished in the most important and useful truth, intelligent and agreeable companions and able assistants in their arduous cares. Besides, from the gra- cious manner in which God has regarded and prospered this measure, in many instances already, is there not en- couragement to hope, that it will prove an efficient in- strument, to prepare the way of the Lord, to facilitate and promote the work of the ministry, to build up the church of Christ, and to accomplish God's purposes of grace to man? The church will have reason to rejoice in the change produced by this system, wherever it is faithfully pursu- ed. Her sons and daughters will be better instructed in the things of Christ's kingdom. Her affairs will be conducted in a more prudent and successful manner. Her institutions will be more highly estimated because BIBLB CLASS SYSTEM. 311 better [understood. Her necessities will be more promptly and abundantly supplied, from men enlighten- ed . rid liberalized, by a correct knowledge, of the gos- pel plan, and of ecclesiastical ordinances and privileges. The Bible presents to learners of every age, capacity and taste, subjects of inconceivable vastness, variety and interest. It commends itself to the attention, by in- numerable charms and attractions, to be found no where else. The opinion of Sir William Jones, one of the most learned and excellent men of his age, ought to in- fluence every judgment on this subject. " I have regu- larly and attentively read," says he, "the Holy Scrip- tures, and am of opinion that this volume, independent- ly of its divine origin, contains more sublimity and beau- ty, purer morality, more important history, and finer strains of poetry and eloquence, than can be collected from all other books, in whatever age or language they may have been composed." Finally, as the principal ground, upon which this vol- ume demands human attention, and is recommended to be made the subject of youthful study, let it be remem- bered, that it is of divine origin — that it contains a per- fect system of sacred truth — a revelation of divine wis- dom and grace, to a world in darkness and ruins — a re- cord of events, perhaps, the most astonishing, admirable and glorious, which the universe has over beheld, or will behold. NOTE L. DIALOGUES ON THE AFRICAN COLONY, The following- conversations, taken from " The Un- ion" of June 1818, upon the subject of colonizing the free people of colour, on the western coast of Africa, contain a comprehensive and candid view, of that be- nevolent and interesting enterprise : — Dialogues between William Perm, Paul Cuffee, and Absalom Jones. Paul Cuffee. — At least, Mr. Penn, in this world of 5pirits to which we have hoav attained, it is of no ad- vantage or disadvantage to us, that while we remained on earth we were shone upon by a milder or more burning sun, and that our complexion was of a darker or lighter hue. Distinctions and prejudices arising out of such trivial circumstances as the colour of a skin or the peculiar form of our features, are not recognised or allowed in Paradise, where the happiness we enjoy is proportioned only to the good which we have done in life, and the purity of those motives that influenced our conduct. Penn. — Yes, Mr. Cuffee, I assure you it affords me a very high degree of enjoyment to perceive prevalent in this world, the same kind and humane spirit which I mv- 40 314 DIALOGUES ON self, while alive, endeavoured to cultivate towards all men, and which I may with truth, and without flattery, (for this is out of the question here) affirm to be the dis- tinguishing characteristic of that denomination of Chris- tians to which I belonged. It is truly a most interest- ing and refreshing sight to angels, as well as the spirits of just men, to see you and Mr. Jones mingling in unre- strained intercourse with the Divines, the Sages, Philoso- phers and worthies of every age and nation. I shall shortly have the pleasure of introducing you to the bish- ops Cyprean and Augustine, two of the greatest orna- ments, and brightest lights of the ancient church, to- gether with a numerous body of no less illustrious cler- gy, who like you once sustained the rigour, and were marked with the impressions of an African climate. — They are, on that account, no less highly estimated in this place. Absalom Jojies. — Having just ascended to these realms, from a city which will ever endear its memory to the wise and good, no less for its charitable institu- tions generally, than for the efforts it has made in behalf of the African race, I assure you, Mr. Penn, it is with emotions which cannot be expressed, that I approach the founder of one of the greatest American states, and the Father of thatgoodand amiable people who commen- ced its settlement under his auspices. In behalf of that afflicted and persecuted race to which I belonged, I here tender you, and through you, that humane portion of Christians who pitied and hospitably received us, our grateful and most cordial acknowledgments. The re- membrance of the kindness we have experienced from the Philadelphians, will never be obliterated from our THE AFRICAN COLONY. 31a minds; as long as our hearts shall beat, it will be with gratitude for such acts of disinterestedness and humanity. Perm. — I still reflect with the greatest complacency and satisfaction upon the good which I did while on earth, and the recollection of it enhances the enjoy- ment of my perfect state. From the time in which I made my first peaceful purchase of lands from the na- tives, the whole tenour of my proceedings, and the warmest wish of my heart, were to unite my fellow-citi- zens in the bonds of amity and good will. Cuffee. — Never was there a nobler object presented to the view, Mr. Penn, than that which you exhibited, when, instead of acting the part of a Cortez or a Pizarro, in exterminating the original inhabitants to gain posses- sion of their lands, you were seen respecting the rights of ignorance and imbecility, acknowledging the claims of justice even towards those who were strangers to its laws, and treating amicably with savages for their terri- tories. It was in a similar spirit of humanity and benev- olence that the inhabitants of that city which you had the honour to found, received with hospitality and kindness, and sheltered from outrage and oppression, the houseless sons of Africa. For acts of such disinterested and noble virtue, no doubt there are laid up in store for them the choicest blessings of heaven. Penn. — It is a subject of the highest gratification to me, to find that my successors have so faithfully imbi- bed my sentiments and imitated my example. They are certainly entitled to the highest praise in having furnish- ed an asylum to that enslaved and persecuted race ; and that Being who beholds with an equal eye the whole family of mankind, and dispenses justice to them with a steady and impartial hand, will not fail to send them a 316 dialogues osr large and ample recompense; but -what news is this which has been lately circulated through the courts of heaven, having reference to a scheme in agitation of sending the Africans back again to their own country ? It is fervently to be hoped that no further violence or cruelty will be attempted against them. Cuffee. — By no means. The plan to which you al- lude, instead of being calculated to inflict still further injuries upon them, is one of the most beneficent that human genius could have devised, or celestial charity herself have dictated — It is calculated to restore to the race of Africa all the losses they have sustained ; heal their wounds : make reparation for their injuries ; rein- state them in the honours of their nature ; retrieve their sullied glory ; and convert their greatest curse into the most signal blessing to themselves and to the world. Pe?in. — Explain your meaning, for I must confess my- self in the dark as to any train of causes which could lead to the results you mention — In what consists a scheme replete with such numerous advantages ? Cvffee. — The plan referred to was projected before my death, and I was among the number of its most sin- cere and zealous advocates (and God forbid that I should have been an advocate of any thing injurious to coloured men) is simply to send over a colony of free people of colour to take possession of some eligible post upon the Western Coast of Africa, say Sierra Leone, on the Congo, the Gambia or Senegal ; in order, that form- ing a settlement in this part, they may gradually extend themselves over the whole continent, and carry with them into tint barbarous portion of the globe, the arts and improvements, the religion and laws of civilized so- 1HK AFRICAN COLONY. ."{17 ciety — It is calculated that if a colony of this nature was once planted upon that coast, the whole of the col- oured population in America would gradually flock to their standard, and thus many objects of the highest na- tional importance would be accomplished. By this means the United States would relieve themselves from their deepest national sin, that of slavery ; and to which they may be assured, while they allow it to rest upon their reputation, there is annexed a curse, either imme- diate or remote in the stores of heaven's justice — a whole nation would be released from bondage and re- stored to the land of their forefathers, a continent hither- to inaccessible at once to the researches of science, and the advance of civilization, would be explored and civ- ilized ; the institutions of political freedom, and the be- nign influence of the gospel extended over that most dreary and benighted corner of the earth. Penn. — Surely, upon the first blush of the question these would seem to be objects worthy of any exertions to obtain them, and the project a most noble and sub- lime one ; but what are the opinions and feelings of the Africans themselves about it ? Cuffce. — Upon this point, I have to regret, that al- though their interests in the matter would appear so clear and undeniable, yet there is the greatest diversi- ty of sentiment about it, and that too among the most respectable and intelligent portion of them. Some are in favour of it, while others oppose it with the utmost vehemence and violence. Penn. — I take it for granted that nothing like force or coercion is contemplated in the affair, and that it will be left entirely at their discretion whether or not they will accept of the proposal for emigration. 318 DIALOGUES ON Cujfee. — Undoubtedly— nothing like constraint or compulsion has ever been contemplated for a moment. Penn. — Mr. Jones, as you have just left this people, you must be acquainted with their opinions arid views upon this affair, pray inform us of them. What are the objections which they are in the habit of alleging against a project so feasible in itself, and which, in its execution, promises the attainment of objects so flatter- ing to their vanity, so likely to be useful at no very re- mote period, and so gratifying to their laudable ambi- tion. Jib.' Jones. — It is difficult to comprise in a few words the views of the coloured people in reference to this sub- ject. A majority of those with whom I was in habits of intercourse and intimacy were greatly averse from the measure, but their opposition sprang out of feelings and considerations as diversified as their dispositions and characters. They never allude to the subject but with the most lively sensibility, and their language, when speaking of it, is often tinctured with bitterness and reproach. Some hesitate not to declaim against the whole project at colonization as only a veiled attempt forcibly to get rid of them, or as the entering wedge to a system of ulterior measures that shall cruelly drive them from a country, in which, after many sufferings, they are beginning to feel themselves at home ; and again let them loose on an inhospitable shore, where they shall either perish with famine, or be destroyed by the sword. Almost all agree, that it is a case of ex- treme hardship, indeed, now that a portion of them are released from bondage, and are every day becoming more and more contented with their condition, which is evidently improving, a plan should be projected, calcu- THE AFRICAN COLONY. 319 lated, for a time at least, to renew their hardships and sufferings, and perhaps, in the issue, expose them to evils more insupportable than any they have yet sus- tained. Prnn. — If these are their sentiments, undoubtedly they should be respected, and the utmost delicacy should be displayed in the future proceedings of the white people towards them. They have already been sufficiently outraged and trampled upon, and it is high time that they should be allowed to resume the rights of human nature. Jib. Jones. — When speaking upon this subject, both in private conversation, and in their public meetings, which have been held upon it, they break forth into that natural and impassioned eloquence which has a thou- sand times more effect upon the heart and affections, and more powerfully propels mankind to action, than the most laboured and highly finished specimens of oratory. What ! they are perpetually exclaiming — is it not enough that the white people have been, century after century, indulging in that nefarious traffic in human flesh, that, to glut an insatiable avarice, they have been in the habit of stimulating those savage tribes to hostili- ty with each other, in order that they might purchase from them, like sheep and oxen, the captives taken in war — that, in this impious commerce, the ties of nature and the sacred voice of humanity have been disregard- ed — husbands and wives, sisters and brothers, parents and children, being severed from each other ! Is it not enough that when our forefathers were thus transferred, by the foulest iniquity, into the hands of unfeeling mas- ters, torn from the embraces of friends, from the sweets of home, and the innumerable recollections of country 320 DIALOGUES ON and kindred, that croud around the heart at parting, they Avere crammed into the hold? of vessels, condemn- ed to breathe a pestilential air, and live upon bread and water, during a long and tedious voyage? Is it not enough that, after they had passed through scenes too afflictive to be thought of without anguish, upon their arrival in America, they should have found that these things were to them but the beginning of sorrows, but the prelude to evils still more intolerable — that they should again have been exposed to sale, like beasts of burthen, in the markets of America, where the purchas- ers were equally as before, deaf to the claims of nature and of kindred? Is it not enough that our forefathers, when thus conveyed into the hands of their masters, have been compelled to hard labour both day and night, amidst the snows of winter and the burning sun of sum- mer, half fed and half clothed, sometimes up to their waists in water in the rice fields and stagnant ponds ; and all this time under the lash of unfeeling overseers, who for the slightest provocations, beat, scourge with rods, and if perchance the unhappy victims escape for a moment from their oppression by flying to the woods and wilds, pursue them with savage fury, hunt them down, and destroy them like wild beasts ? Is it not enough Venn. — I perceive, Mr. Jones, you are overcome with emotion. The picture is surely enough to melt the heart of a savage. Can it be possible that such things have taken place in an age of light, in a (ree country, and under the influence of a religion which breathes peace on earth and good will to men ? Ah. Jones. — I have yet related to you but a very small part of our sad story. It would require volumes to re THE AFHI6AN C0L0NV. o21 cord the history of the wrongs and sorrows of colour- ed people. The recital would make every fibre of the heart bleed with agony. Let us now rather endeavour to conceal these miserable objects with a veil of pa- tience and forgiveness. But after the African race have sustained such unnumbered injuries and outrages — when they have been bruised, as it were, in the wine- press of Heaven's wrath, depressed and trodden under the feet of men, just at the moment when they are begin- ning once more to lift up their heads, when their chains are falling off them from the influence of the Genius of Freedom, and they are every day becoming more and more contented with their condition, happy in them- selves and respected by others, shall they again have their labours and sufferings renewed, be set adrift upon a hazardous and tempestuous sea, in which they know not what storms may arise, and Avhat quicksands may absorb them? Forbid it, Heaven! Forbid it, Genius of American Freedom ! Forbid it, Spirit of Benevolence and Humanity ! Penn. — You speak with great vehemence and earnest- ness; and it is certain that your feelings towards a race to which you were once united by so many sympathies, are natural and praiseworthy; and I must confess that my mind is in a state of too much excitement, from the picture you have drawn, to enable me to decide upon this matter with an unbiased judgment. Let us, there- fore postpone the further prosecution of the subject for the present. After more mature reflection, and after I shall have consulted with Washington, and other hu- mane and illustrious shades in paradise, I shall be able to deliver a more digested and accurate opinion about it, 1t 322 DIALOGUES ON Dialogue Second. penn. — Well, Mr. CufFee and Mr. Jones, after more mature reflection, what do you still continue to think of the subject which we began to discuss in our former conversation, in reference to sending a colony to Afri- ca, of the free people of colour? Ah. Jones. — My sentiments about it are unaltered, and my determination to oppose it unshaken. Cuffee. — And I, the more 1 reflect upon the subject, feel more and more deeply impressed with the convic- tion, that it would be the most beneficial scheme that human genius could devise, or human powers execute, in behalf of the African race. What is the opinion to which you have come, Mr. Penn, after the profound at- tention and impartial consideration, which, I doubt not, you have bestowed upon this point? Penn. — After consultation with Washington, and ma- ny other distinguished men, who, while on earth, were the deliverers of their country, and champions of the rights and liberties of mankind, I have entirely satisfied my mind as to its expediency and advantage. They are all, without exception, warmly interested in the success of the undertaking. Cuffee. — I am much gratified with finding that an opinion I have so zealously espoused, is sanctioned by such high authority. This result, however, I had good reason to anticipate : as the measure, it is well known, meets with the decided approbation and encouragement of the most respectable patriots and statesmen of Ameri- ca; and we find, moreover, acting at the head of the society instituted to promote it, a statesman who is the PHE AFRICAN COLONY. 323 heir at once of the estate, the name, and the public esti- mation of Washington — and whose talents, virtues and amiable character, render him worthy to succeed, in all these titles, his illustrious relative. A'>. Jones. — After hearing the opinions of so many eminent men upon this matter, I ought surely to feel some diffidence of the soundness of my own views, and the justness of my own conceptions about it. But real- ly, it is matter of surprise and astonishment to me, that you two, considering the acknowledged benevolence and humanity of your characters, should allow your- selves to he betrayed into acquiescence in a measure, which you must perceive will at once deprive the Af- rican race of all the comforts which some of them are now enjoying, and again renew their toils, their hard- ships and sorrows. Our race have contributed their due proportion of toil, though with but little enjoyment of the profits, to transform this western world, and more espe- cially the southern division of it, from being the abode of savages and beasts of prey, into the beautiful residence of improved and civilized man ; and shall they not now become partakers of the benefits, reap the fruits of their own toils? — Some of them were found in the ranks of the American army during the revolutionary war, and it was never asserted, that they were deficient in spirit and activity. Shall they now be transported, like con- victs, from a country whose battles they have assisted in fighting, and in whose struggles for independence, they so deeply sympathised? Penn. — I again repeat that I would consent to no- thing that should wear the slightest appearance of force or compulsion in the affair. Let the sacrifices they must make, if the colony contemplated is established, H24 DIALOGUES ON be a free and voluntary offering of their own, and made from a regard to the immense benefits which will result to themselves and the world. At the same time, howev- er that I am willing to admit that some sacrifices are to be made and some difficulties encountered in accom- plishing this enterprize, yet let us not delude or terrify ourselves by exaggerated representations of them, by picturing to our minds scenes of visionary suffering, or imagine that as soon as the Africans engage in this un- dertaking, they are to make their way towards its exe- cution only along dangerous precipices, and by plung- ing into gulfs of horror. For my part, I can perceive nothing so extremely formidable in the projected expe- dition, or that the coloured men who shall engage in it are likely to meet with anymore difficulties and hard- ships than those which were encountered by me and those who united with me in forming a settlement in Pennsylvania. What is the plan in contemplation? Let us endeavour to form clear and distinct ideas about it ; to ascertain its nature and extent ; before we allow our minds to be filled with chimerical fears, and to be de- terred from the design by indiscriminating invectives against it. As far as I can understand the matter, there is nothing that can prove the slightest cause of anxiety or alarm to the people who are concerned, but every thing to awake the most cheering hopes and kindle them into enthusiasm in its favour. From the most exact calculations that have been made, it is concluded that there must be at this time in the U. S. a million and a half of coloured people— Of this immense number we will suppose one hundred thousand to be free men, Now, out of this million and a half of coloured people and this hundred thousand free men, all that would be THE AFRICAN' COLON*'. 325 necessary to enter upon this undertaking- would be about 10,000, that is one tenth of the number of those that are free, and the one hundred and fiftieth part of the whole number at present in the territories of the United States. These 10,000 being- provided with food to sup- port them and carrying with them the implements of hus- bandry, can without material difficulty, be planted upon the Western coast of Africa, and as soon as the settle- ment becomes flourishing, will gradually attract to it the remainder of the coloured people, who would find it their interest and happiness to join them. Is this an enterprize so very hopeless, or which is calculated to excite so much and such serious alarm? More than half the globe has been peopled in a similar way. Greece was originally peopled by colonies from the East ; Italy by those from Asia ; Carthage from Tyre ; our own hemisphere we know has been entirely popu- lated by this kind of emigration from the old world — The history of man is pregnant with examples of expe- ditions much more hazardous, and undertaken for far less important objects. What is this when compared to the passage round the Cape of Good Hope by Vasco de Gama ; to the discovery of America by Columbus ; or to the expedition at this moment in a train of pre- paration in England to visit the North pole and con- tend with the mountains of ice and the numberless perils of these frozen regions ? Are the Africans willing to allow themselves the only nation incapable of great and noble exertions? Ah. Jones. — If it should be thought advisable by the coloured people to emigrate from a land in which they have now become domesticated, why not allow them to settle in this country upon the banks of the MiVissip* Jliti DIALOGUES ON pi or Missouri, where they would feel themselves in the midst of friends and the comforts of civilized life, instead of having them transported to the wilds of a barren and savage land? Penn. — Insuperable objections at once present them- selves against a plan of this nature — The stream of white population flows so strongly in that direction, that nothing probably could arrest its progress. If the Africans, therefore, were to commence a settlement here, they would not long be permitted quietly to pos- sess their lands. The same scenes would immediately be exhibited between them and the whites as are every- day acted at this time between these and the Indians. The ultimate consequence would be the utter ruin and extinction of the colony, from the wars that would be provoked by mutual injuries and aggressions. No — Perhaps no part of the globe could be fixed upon bet- ter suited to the purpose in view than that which has been selected. Instead of a barren soil, an intolerable climate, and a dreary wild, they would find along the banks of the Gambia, the Senegal or the Congo, a temperature of the air suited by the God of nature to their constitutions, and one of the richest and most fer- tile territories upon earth. If nature has, indeed stretched upon the face of Africa the wide and sandy desert of Zaara, where scarcely a shrub can grow, or an animal subsist, with her usual equity and benignity, for this deficiency she has afforded it a compensation in those happy regions in which whole nations subsist by little more than the spontaneous productions of the earth. Ah. Jones.— But, supposing all you say to be true, and that this colony might easily be planted, and would J HE AFRICAN' COLONY. 327 become flourishing, where is the necessity or advantage of a removal to the race of Africa? They are becom- ing- every day more and more contented and happy. Efforts are continually made to procure their gradual emancipation; schools are erected for their education; there is nothing to prevent them from practising those useful arts, either of agriculture, commerce, or manu- facture, or engaging in those mechanical employments by which they may be enriched, and thus their condi- tion still farther meliorated. Whence the necessity of their leaving a country to which they have now become attached by long habits, and in which their means of comfortable subsistence and their modes of living are constantly improving ? Penn. — I perceive that your prejudices and prepos- sessions upon this subject are extremely strong, if not insuperable, and that it is a very arduous attempt to subdue or remove them. Nevertheless, in so important a business, I will not despair of success. Let us en- deavour, as far as possible, to divest our minds of every bias that influences them against the suggestions of rea- son, and enter upon the cool and dispassionate investi- gation of this point. After having well digested the matter, considered it on all sides, and in all imaginable points of light, canvassed every thing that can be alleg- ed in recommendation or in opposition to it, I think that the arguments in its favour most decidedly and greatly preponderate. Ab. Jones. — Let us hear them then ; for although I must confess myself strongly prepossessed against the measure, and even warmly hostile to it, yet I am ready to lend an ear to the suggestions of reason and good sense, and to yield to conviction. 328 DIALOGUES ON Pe?rn. — In the first place, an establishment of this na» ture, is the only imaginable expedient which can be adopted to elevate the coloured people from that debase- ment into which slavery has sunk them, and confer on them the acknowledged rights of human nature. Ab. Jones. — But will not this end be as certainly and speedily accomplished, yi ithout having recourse to an expedient of this nature? Do we not see the prejudi- ces which have hitherto subsisted among the whites against the coloured people, gradually subsiding under the influence of reason and good sense ; and the latter rising every day into rank and respectability T Is it not to be anticipated that humanity and justice will ul- timately obtain a complete triumph, and that every member of this republic, whatever may be the shade of his complexion, will be placed upon a perfect equality ? Penn. — This is, undoubtedly, the wish of every phi- lanthropic mind ; but the wishes of good men, and even their most strenuous exertions, cannot obliterate the sen- timents of nature, or overrule the settled course of things. — The mode in which the unhappy race of Africa were first ushered into the notice and attract- ed the attention of the American people, was the most unfavourable that could be conceived to their be- ing considered upon a footing of respectability. — First, they were found in a rude and savage condition in their own country, from which they were transferred to the most abject slavery, where, writhing under the torture inflicted on them, by such outrage, they naturally exhib- ited such features of deformity as were calculated to excite contempt, disgust and indignation. From these circumstances, the whites, in spite of their better rea- son, must long, if not always, continue to view them through the discoloured medium of such early associa* THE AFRICAN COLONY. 320 lions. It is in vain to disguise the matter. It is a re- sult which is clear, incontestible, palpable. However the good and humane may struggle to eradicate such prejudices from their hearts and endeavour to mitigate to the Africans the rigours of their fate, these people can- not but be sensible of the line of distinction, which is drawn between them and their white neighbours, and the insurmountable barrier presented against a free and unrestrained intercourse between them ; they cannot but be acutely alive to a sense of this discrimination. They have but to move a limb, and they feel it — it vi- brates in every nerve, and beats in every pulsation of their hearts: and shall they delude themselves with the hope of a more favourable state of things at a fu- ture period ? Do they discern any thing in the signs of the times that prognosticates sucb a change in the course of events? They may, indeed, be hospitably received by the humane inhabitants of Philadelphia, be protect- ed, encouraged and fostered by their laws — be allowed to earn a comfortable subsistence by the performance of various menial and necessary offices — be permitted even to enjoy all the privileges of freemen, and to ascend pul- pits to preach the Gospel to people of their own com- plexion ; — but can any one imagine that the period will ever arrive in which they will bear any sway in our country, guide our legislative councils, preside in our courts of judicature, or take the lead in the affairs of the republic? Is it probable that the time will ever come in which intermarriages will be sought between their families and those of the most respectable whites? It would be the height of foil}' to it dulge such an expect- ation ; and until this is the case, they will never occu- py the rank or enjoy the privileges of white men ; until 42 $30 DIALOGUES OJ* this is the case, they will ever hold an inferiour and subordinate place in society, and be in some degree aliens in their own land. — Paul Cuffee had the sensibili- ty and discernment to perceive this state of things, the penetration to discover the only practicable means by which his race could be relieved from their painful sense of inferiority, and the activity to commence the ex- ecution of a project to remedy the evil. Paul Cuffee. — Yes— If the Africans wish to elevate themselves to the rank and respectability of Americans and Europeans, let them establish a colony upon the coast of Africa. When this colony is planted, and be- comes prosperous, as it would soon do, — when they shall have instituted a government of their oAvn model- ling, and elected rulers of their own choice — when their strength shall be increased by vast accessions of their brethren from all parts of the world, invited to unite themselves to them — when agriculture, commerce and manufactures shall be cultivated by them — when the earth shall be covered and beautified with the products of their industry, and the sea whitened with their canvass — when flourishing cities, magnificent churches, richly endowed colleges and seminaries of learning, philoso- phers, historians, poets, orators, statesmen and heroes, a powerful army and a triumphant navy, shall proclaim their glory, and contest the palm of greatness with the other nations of the earth — then it is that mankind will learn to hold thatmuch injured race in just and respectful estimation. Compassion is spontaneously bestowed up- on the unfortunate and the wretched ; and of this the coloured people have at this time, from the intelligent and worthy, a full proportion — but respect is to be wrested from mankind only by violence and compul- THE AKRICAX COLONY. 331 sion, and, to purchase this, the Africans have still to un- dergo many hardships and toils. A 1 '. Jones. — You draw such a glowing picture of the future probable prosperity and grandeur of this colony, that you almost excite my desire that my countrymen in the world below should make the attempt, thus to aggrandize their name and nation. Perm. — Would to heaven ! that they would be made sensible of the numberless and inestimable benefits which would redound to them from this measure. But supposing that it is not to be expected of a whole peo- ple to be inspired with such a thirst for glory as to make great sacrifices in the attainment of objects so il- lustrious as those which have been enumerated ; at least we might calculate that a sufficient number of them might be found, who would have the spirit to embark in the only undertaking which can relieve them from that state of inferiority and degradation to which they are at present reduced in society, and which is the source of so many mortifications, indignities and mischiefs — at least it might be anticipated, that a competent number could be found, who would meet any hazards and en- counter any difficulties to wipe off the reproach and disgrace that have so long adhered to them, and rein- state them in their native honours among the nations of the earth. Some persons, indeed, on account of their having failed to exhibit any proofs of genius since their transportation to America, have felt disposed to deny them the same grade in the scale of being with white men ; but this opinion is not substantiated by facts, nor deduced from premises adequate to sustain the conclu- sion : it is confirmed neither by reason nor revelation ; neither by the authentic voice of history, nor by the 3&2 DIALOGUES OS maxims of a just philosophy — They want nothing- but time and opportunity to refute this calumny. I could not conceive of a more favourable opportunity than that which would be afforded them by the proposed settlement upon the coast of Africa. JLb. Jones. — But will not the same result be likely to take place in t e country in which they now reside? We see the most benevolent and extensive means re- sorted to, to improve and civilize them — Schools are erected for their education ; churches founded in which they assemble for public worship, and no mean of in- struction is withheld from them — Is it not probable that this state of things is the prelude to a still more hap- py change in their favour, and that the prejudices sub- sisting against them will be obliterated, and they will be elevated to a perfect equality with the whites? Penn. — It is much to be feared that all will be una- vailing. Paul Cuffee. — It is in vain, Mr. Jones, that our race should indulge in visionary expectations — As I Avas of the same family of mankind with them, and must, of course, be supposed to have all my sympathies enlisted in their behalf, I can communicate my sentiments without fear of offence or misconstruction. What has been done for our injured and abused race reflects the highest honour upon those who have interested them- selves in their concerns, but I am convinced that no efforts which can be made will ever lift them out of that inferior and ignominious condition in which they now Stand in America, and out of which condition spring many virulent and fatal disorders, which nothing else ean remedy but their transplantation to a more natural end happy soil. The station which the Africans at pres- THE ALBICAN COLONY. 3U.'J ent occupy, is the most inauspicious that could be ima- gined to the developemcnt of their powers, or the growth and expansion of their virtues. Their minds are in too depressed a sphere to be reached by the influ- ence of most of those motives that most powerfully op- erate upon mankind; awake their energies; or stimu- late them to exertion. They cannot aspire to the high- est dignities of churc h or state; the chairs of executive authority ; the benches of justice ; seats in senates and legislative bodies; the palm of eloquence at the bar and in the pulpit; the fame of philosophers, statesmen, authors, are objects to which they never lift their view, and yet these are the objects which rouse into restless activity the dormant powers of human genius. The\ cannot even anticipate an admission into the first circles of society, and the pleasures and advantages of polite intercourse, however incontrovertible might be their claims from the pre-eminence of their virtues or the re- finement of their manners. Now, whatever may be thought of such circumstances by superficial observers, I hesitate not to decide, that upon any community on earth they would have a most baneful influence upon their present character and morals, and an inauspicious aspect upon their future prospects. And in fact, this very consideration reveals the true secret, which is not to be found in any diversity in their original structure ; why, when translated to this seat of civilization and the arts, they have never produced an Esop, a Terence, or an Epictetus, or any men who have rendered them- selves illustrious by their talents. Under other circum- stances and in other countries, they have furnished a list of worthies, who would not have dishonoured any age or nation. Let it. once become an established usage ;i34 BIALOGUES ON* or positive law, that as soon as they shall distinguish themselves by their talents and virtues, they shall reap the same advantages and be crowned with the same hon- ours with white men, and I doubt not they would soon, by the exercise of their powers, blot out the imputation which has been cast upon them, and retrieve the fallen honours of their nation. But what is reasonably to be expected of a people in a state of such abject slavery, with their powers ground under the mill-stone of op- pression, with minds uncultivated, accustomed to the lowest and grossest habits ; and then, as soon as they have been happily manumitted and allowed to act for themselves, finding every avenue to distinction, to hon- our, or even respectability, blocked up by obstacle? that cannot be surmounted ? They must have been more than human, instead of less, if, while thus circum- stanced, they exhibited any proofs of superiority. But even this is not the most unfavourable point of light in which this subject may be viewed. Allowing their powers to lie inactive from the want of high motives to exertion, and precluded all hope of being received into the company, and enjoying the refined pleasures of those whom they most respect, they sink into an indif- ference to those objects which they know to be unat- tainable, become contented with inferiority, and even fond of debasement : contract habits of indolence, sloth and intemperance, or perhaps plunge into all the depths of vice. Hence their education is neglected, their minds totally uncultivated, their moral characters low and depraved, their manners coarse and vulgar, and they themselves dispirited and contemned. And can the coloured people allow themselves to lie for ever amidst the mire and dirt of their abasement, and never be rous- THE AFRICAN COLONY. u3J ed to a sense of their own dignity ? O, race of Africa! were I able to re-appear upon earth, and had a voice that could resound through every corner and crevice of the globe in which you are scattered, I -would impor- tune you with infinite vehemence and solicitude, to awake from your disgraceful slumber — arouse to a just sense of your condition — flee as fast as possible from a land in which you must ever remain dishonoured — re- turn to the land of your forefathers — hasten to that country and climate suited by the God of nature to your constitution and temperament — flee to that region in which you shall walk at large and breathe a conge- nial air, and where your spirits will no longer be damp- ed, despised, and palsied in their exercise, by a painful sentiment of inferiority; where the noblest objects will be presented to quicken your exertions, and inflame a laudable ambition — in a word, to a country whose laws, government, honours, victories, and the whole of whose destinies you can proudly and triumphantly call your own. Dialogue Third. Ab. Jones. — The view which you gave, Mr. Cuffee, at our last meeting, of the condition of the coloured people in the United States, sank deeply into my heart j and I must confess, that after mature reflection upon your arguments, I find myself unable to impugn or re- fute them. The moral character of that people is un- doubtedly greatly influenced and modelled by the causes you have mentioned, and that subordinate rank, which, I fear, they must forever hold among the whites, presents an insurmountable impediment to their refine- 236 DIALOGUES ON merit and civility of manners, and at the same time gives birth to many baneful consequences. It appears to me, however, that you have forgotten one material circum- stance in the estimate you have furnished of their pre- sent condition. If they cannot aspire to the highest dig- nities of the republic, and to those great and exalted objects which kindle in men the ardour of ambition, and stimulate them to unusual exertion, the road to wealth is, at any rate, open to them ; and may they not, through this track, ascend those eminences which mankind are so anxious to obtain ; and which, from the efforts ne- cessary to reach them, are found to produce so happy a moral effect upon society ? Penn. — That trash, indeed, is within their reach, and they may add pile to pile without molestation from any one: but after they have accumulated as much as ava- rice itself can covet, what will they have acquired? The coloured people, it is true, when they shall have an opulent class among them, may enjoy all the com- forts, and even luxuries of life, in a distinct society by themselves (and if they continue in the country, it is to be hoped that this will soon be the case,) but still the line of distinction between them and the whites will sub- sist ; still they will have no home which they can proud- ly call their own, or soil upon which they can walk as its lord ; still they will feel themselves, in a great de- gree, strangers, inhabiting a land which is possessed by others. They may not, and I believe they will not be so well satisfied with their lot when they become weal- thy, as they are at present; but their discontent or mur- murs will not prevent the wall of partition between them and the whites from remaining impassable. And it is not at all improbable, that when they shall find this THE AFRICAN C0L0N1'. 337 to be the case, and the truth shall be brought home to their understandings by irresistible evidence, that the prejudices entertained against there by white people are unconquerable, they will then wish to resort to that very expedient to relieve themselves, to which they at this time discover so strong a repugnance. Ah. Jones. — It is not impossible. Even in Heaven we are not indulged the privilege of foreseeing future events. It is not in my power therefore to predict Avhat the African nation at a future day may be willing to perform. Perhaps at a remote period, too, they may be able to accomplish the object now contemplated, without encountering so many privations and perils up- on the part of the adventurers, or without jeoparding, as some think they must do, the best interests of others. Paul Cufee I cannot imagine what you mean by such an insinuation. Whose interests could be put in jeopardy b) r a measure of this nature? A'>. Jones. — There are not wanting those, and some serious and reflecting men too, who have imbibed the opinion, that this attempt at colonization, if successful, w r ould tend to check, if not entirely put a stop to the emancipation of slaves. Pcnn. — Indeed ! a most strange idea ! The direct contradictory of the proposition, would seem to be the natural and unavoidable inference. I should certainly be disposed to think that the planting of such a colony would contribute to the manumission of more slaves in half a century, than will be manumitted by any expe- dients now adopted, or likely to be adopted, for some centuries to come. But upon what conceivable ground do they rest such an opinion 1 43 338 DIALOGUES ON Ah. Jones. — It is thought that this colony, when once flourishing, will attract to it all the tree people of col- our, and thus, by drawing them off from the United States, relieve the southern planters from their apprehensions for the tranquillity of the country, and at the same time, by increasing the value of the remaining slaves, disin- cline them, on both accounts, to part with this species of property. Penn. — The argument, though plausible, is evidently founded in very great misapprehension of the state of the case — So far from this statement being true, or there being any shadow of reason for a surmise of this nature, it is a well known fact, that there are many gentlemen in the Southern States, who stand ready at any moment, to set their slaves at liberty, as soon as they are convin- ced that they can do so consistently with the duties they owe society; or in other words, as soon as it shall ap- pear that a measure of this kind will promote the sub- stantial interests of the slaves themselves, not endanger the peace and welfare of the state, and be conformed to the maxims of a true and enlarged humanity — The expe- rience of our southern planters, many of whom are in- telligent men, is leading them rapidly to the conclusion, that from motives of interest, as well as justice and hu- manity, they should liberate their slaves as fast as possi- ble, if any comfortable provision could be made for them ; since the existence of slavery shuts the door against the emigration of white people ; and, moreover, their lands are never so disadvantageously cultivated as by an order of men who feel no personal interest in the soil or its productions. They are becoming convinced, therefore that an enlightened policy, as well as the claims of justice, exact from them this sacrifice. No THE AblilCAN COLONY. 330 3ooncr, then, shall this colony bo established upon the coast of Africa, and regarded as affording a safe retreat for this unfortunate people, than we should see thou- sands of them voluntarily released from bondage by those masters who arc at present restrained from tills act of justice and generosity by the fear of inflicting an inju- ry both upon the slaves manumitted and upon society. Upon the slaves themselves, by rendering them idle, vi- tious, and desperate ; — andupon society, by letting loose upon it those who in all probability will become vaga- bonds, plunderers, and pests. All objections of this nature will be removed by obtaining a home for them in the manner contemplated ; and as soon as this is dune, every bondman in the Southern States will be regarded, by the humane, as a captive in a hostile land, and the most strenuous endeavours be made use of to redeem him. More societies than already subsist, would be in- stituted for the purpose ; their powers of usefulness en- larged ; and their resources vastly augmented. The •wealthy men of America, whose hearts are touched with compassion, would consider their treasures ;w, by this liberal act. their ?ense of justice and sacred regard to the rights of mankind. THE AFRICAN COLON V. 343 Penn. — It would surely require hut a very small de- gree bf insight into tl irs of mankind to perceive tli tt a sudden and indiscriminate emancipation of slaves in th< Southern States, would n:>t only bo a measure Dot or expedient; but in the highest degree de- al uci • e. It would uptear the social state from its very foundation, and make of it for a time, but one dreary scene of desolation and ruin. The soil would be left uncultivated; families impoverished; the broken rem- nants ol men's fortunes would be plundered and destroy- ed ; one scene of tumult and combustion would succeed another; and the nation sink into a state of anarchy and confusion. All, therefore, that can be anticipated, by any rational and reflecting- man, is the gradual and judi- cious emancipation of slaves. And in what way is this great object to be most speedily and effectually accom- plished ? No plan could be devised so wisely adapted to the end, as the plantation of the colony contempla- ted. A''. Jours. — If the southern gentlemen feel so benev- olently disposed towards them, why not gradually re- release them, of their own will, from servitude ? It is at least in the power of each to set his own slaves at liberty ? Penn. — Much has already been effected by individu- al acts of this nature ; but even here we have to lament that, from the depravity of human nature, it has been found necessary to throw some restraints upon such ef- forts of private generosity, from a regard to the public s-ood. In Virginia such serious evils have arisen out. of a partial emancipation, out of that mixed condition in which some men of the same complexion, rank and habits have been allowed to have their freedom, and others to be retained in servitude, that a law has lately #44 DIALOGUES ON passed the legislature of that state, prohibiting all citi- zens from manumitting their slaves, unless provision be made at the same time for their removal from the state. This measure reveals to us an important secret, in re- ference to this subject, of the extreme tardiness with which the business of emancipation will proceed, if it be acted upon only by causes within the States, and not propelled and accelerated by foreign springs. Jl'>. Jones. — This is, indeed, a most discouraging view of this matter. My heart sinks and dies within me upon (he contemplation of it. Is there, then, no hope of more sure and speedy relief to those distressed bondmen in the southern section of the American union ? Paul Cuffee. — I can see no hope for them but in the plantation of this African colony. This step will soon afford a prompt and effectual relief. Often did my mind dwell upon this matter during my life, until my heart melted with pity ; my feelings glowed to enthusiasm ; and I would have encountered any privations, toils, sufferings and death, for the deliverance of my coun- trymen. Could I descend again to earth I would be- come a missionary in this holy cause. I would never cease my importunities to the free people of colour un- til I induced them to embark in that undertaking, by which they may render themselves the saviours of their southern brethren. Can they set themselves down in ease and comfort, and listen with indifference to the sighs and groans and bitter complaints, wrung from their brethren by their sufferings ? Can they without resolu- tions of encountering any evils for their rescue, con- template their hardships and toils, their hunger thirst and nakedness ; the tortures to which they are but too often exposed ; the tumults and butcheries to which THE AFRICAN COLON If. 343 they will give rise at every future period, by their fran- tic and convulsive efforts to release themselves ? Shall the cry of their sorrows by reason of their task-masters, for ever ascend to heaven, and no succour be extended to them ? Pcnn. — Is there no Moses among them to carry tlii^ second Israel out of Egypt, and conduct them to the promised land? Paul Cuffce. — Would that God himself would raise lip a prophet like unto Moses, to redeem this enslaved and much injured nation ! Penn. — What has been already adverted to during the progress of these conversations, I consider as con- clusive arguments in favour of this expedition; but when, passing from the present moment, I allow my im- agination to take a more extensive range, and trace this great undertaking to its ultimate consequences, my mind is filled with the most sublime conceptions, and my heart dilated with the most delightful anticipations. Let the colony be once supposed planted, and become flourish- ing, and what will be the unavoidable results ? It will gradually attract to its sphere every slave in America. In this single consideration, what a feast would be af- forded to the philanthropic mind ! Those who were dragged by violence from the land of their fathers ; doomed to miserable bondage; and having their ears greeted only with the clanking of chains, and the sighs and groans of their unhappy associates, now return to the land of their forefathers, their native home, singing the songs of triumph, and bearing the standard of liber- ty. How rich will be the return, and how noble the reparation, which America will make to Africa, for all the injuries she has done her! For the wretched captive* 41 NOTE M. HINTS FOR IMPROVING SCHOOLS AND (Of, LEGES. The following extracts from the charter of Franklin College, are deemed so important, as to deserve partic- ular notice : — " The public schools instituted or to be supported by funds or public moneys, in this state, shall be consider- ed as parts or members of the university, and shall be under the foregoing directions and regulations." " The president of the university, as often as the du- ties of his station will permit, at least once a year, shall visit them, and examine into their order and performan- ces." In a country like ours, where the interests of science do not experience extensively the benefits of legislative patronage, literature, left to depend upon her own con- tingent resources, must be expected to make slow pro- gress in accomplishing her views. Her success will depend, in a very great degree, upon the wisdom, zeal and energy, which characterize the system pursued in the seminaries established for the promotion of litera- ture. The interests of classical science, in the United States, are suffering materially, from that want of uniformity 348 HINTS FOR IMPROVING in elementary books, which generally prevails. The variety exhibited by our schools and colleges, in this respect, corresponds fully with the varieties of climate, soil and character, which our country in general sus- tains. This want of uniformity exists, not only between the northern and southern districts of our country, but is found unfortunately to prevail in the central regions, and in schools and seminaries situated quite contiguous to one another. It would facilitate the progress of youth in a collegiate course, to make all their prepara- tory books of study, on every subject, bear as much gen- eral resemblance, as circumstances would permit. From the frequent migrations from school to school, which take place among pupils, and from the examina- tions for entrance into college which constantly occur, it is discovered that there are in use in our schools and academies, a great number of distinct grammars, both in the Greek and Latin language. In the course of these removals, which are often unavoidable and ad- vantageous, cases frequently occur, in which it be- comes necessary, either to permit the pupils, entering upon a new situation, to continue in the use of the ele- mentary books they have been accustomed to, which impedes their progress and introduces confusion into the school, or to compel them to lay aside the grammars they first acquired, and commence others, very different in form and expression, which is imposing upon them a heavy burden, productive of no real good to the learner, and leaves him liable, between his faint recollection of the former and imperfect knowledge of the latter, to be- come really and thoroughly acquainted with neither. The evil here complained of, is felt more extensively, in more large and important institutions. The system SCHOOLS AND COLLRGE9. 31H now pursued is calculated to compel the great mass of students who receive a collegiate education, to enter one of the lower classes, in which the classics are read and in which uniformity cannot be dispensed with, with- out injury to the institution as well as to the pupils. The provisions exhibited in the preceding " Extracts" from the charter of Franklin College, are calculated to remedy this evil in a certain degree. Dr. Finley, who had long, at the head of his flourishing Academy at Basking llidge, lamented the existence of the evil re- ferred to, contemplated this trait in the character of the university of Georgia with lively interest, and anticipa- ted from it many happy results. At the very first oppor- tunity offered, he entered on that part of his official duty as president of that college, which is intimated in the latter of the two extracts and actually visited four of the public schools of Georgia in his fatal tour. The plan suggested in the preceding extracts, if sub- stantially complied with, would produce many import- ant advantages. The annual visit of the president to the several academies in the state,, in connexion with the idea of their subordination to him and to the insti- tution over which he presides, would stimulate the scholars and their teachers to greater diligence in their respective duties, and might be employed as an import- ant auxiliary in the instruction and discipline of the several institutions embraced in this connexion. And under such a system of regulation, it would be easy to give strict uniformity to the collegiate establishment, in all its members and departments. This regulation, which occupies a conspicuous place in the charter of Franklin College, appears to be pre-eminently wise and useful, and maybe rendered exceedingly beneficial 350 HINTS FOR IMPROVING to that institution, to the literature of Georgia, and to that of the surrounding country. Would not the introduction of similar arrangements, through our country in general, be practicable in itself, and productive of important advantages to all our litera- ry institutions ? Might not every college establish a con- nexion of this kind with those grammar schools which are situated in its vicinity or from which it usually re- ceives its pupils, on the condition of affording its pat- ronage, giving direction in regard to the subjects of study, furnishing auxiliary teachers, perhaps sending with the consent of the schools, annually, an examining committee, and requiring the schools, in return for these favours, to adopt their course of instruction, to the sys- tem pursued in the college with which they stand thus connected.* The proposed connexion might be made happily instrumental in exciting and fostering the prin- ciple of emulation between these subordinate institu- tions, and on the whole, extensively conducive to the cause of science. And would it not probably operate, with ingenuous youth, as a strong incentive to industry in study, if the college, in each of the contemplated associations, should appoint a premium, to be conferred upon the best scholar admitted annually into each of its classes from the allied seminaries ? To introduce entire uniformity into the American system of education, would it not be advisable for those colleges which can be brought to adopt the same ele- mentary books in the several departments, classical, * Such a plan having been adopted, information of it, should be given to the public, that they who are ahout to commence the education of their sons, may be able to conlbrm their first studies to the system pursued in the institution in whirh tbey are expected to complete their literary course. SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES. 8.0 1 mathematical and philosophical, to select, arrange and publish a complete set of studies, to bo distinguished and known as the particular studies of those institutions? And, should this arrangement be found impracticable, would it not be highly advantageous for each college to make this selection for its own use, and as far as ne- cessary, for the accommodation of its subordinate schools ? By this measure 1. Money might be saved to the learner. Most of the books now used in schools and colleges, are published in a style of execution more costly than necessary, and are bought at too dear a rate. In many instances the expense of procuring a whole work is in- curred, while only a small portion of it is read or studi- ed. The paper is often thin and perishable, and the binding very slight and inferior. In the proposed pub- lication these disadvantages might easily be remedied. The materials and the workmanship should be of the most substantial and durable nature. All unnecessary matter it is proposed to leave out. 2. On the pian here contemplated, accuracy, in classi- cal books, might be restored. The Latin and Greek authors printed in this country abound so exceedingly with typographical errors that very great injury is sustained from the use of them in schools. When inaccuracies frequently occur, the teacher is incessantly harrassed and the business of school interrupted, by applications to have the classical text examined, and existing errors exposed and correct- ed. In this manner much time is lost and the school ia injured; and, besides, the student, always ready to im- pute difficulty to inaccuracy and to suspend his efforts till doubt is removed, finds his diligence in applies 45 352 HINTS FOR IMPROVING and independent exercise of thought much impaired. These disadvantages have been experienced so s piously, that it has been judged expedient in some instances to keep a European edition, of the principal authors read, as a standard to refer to — a fact disgraceful and humilia- ting to American scholars ! 3. The proposed publication might be made entirely free from those impurities, with which some of the best classical writers unhappily abound. Retaining passa- ges, which convey insinuations against religion and morals and which are of an obscene and vitiating ten- dency in those books which are very early put into the hands of youth, to be carefully studied, is very mani- festly dangerous and improper. It would be a favor, of no common magnitude, to the principles and morals of literary youth, to have every thing licentious, low, and polluting, removed from our classical authors. A remedy might thus be furnished for the evils and the dangers arising from making our young men whom we wish to lead to the knowledge of the one only living and true God, too early and too intimately acquainted with Grecian and Roman Polytheism — with the fictions and absurdities of their mythology — and with the vices and follies of their imaginary deities. 4. This measure would contribute very extensively to that uniformity which is so much desired. Wherever this work would circulate, the plan of education pursu- ed in the institution, which had given it existence might be fully understood, and easily followed. The public in general, teachers and schools especially, would know precisely in what manner, the preliminary studies of a candidate for that college must be conducted, to obtain for him an easy and honorable admission into it. SCHOOLS AXD COI-LRGES. 35.'f Might wo not adopt with some prudent modifications in our literary institutions, that part of the ancient Jew. ish system of education, in which they trained their pu- pils to an acquaintance with mechanical* pursuits, in connexion with letters and science, and white they strengthened and enriched the minds of their scholars with literary culture, established them in the practical knowledge of the useful arts and mechanical employ- ments of life ? If acquiring practical knowledge of me- chanics, of gardening, of agriculture could be made to occupy a portion of that time which is commonly spent in idleness and amusement, and be brought to answer the purpose of necessary exercise, several additional ob- jects of considerable importance would be in some de- gree gained, by the alteration. Many of the ordinary complaints such as bruises, sprains, local inflammations, and fevers which most commonly occur among boys at public schools, arise from the ir- regular and violent exertions which they make in their ordinary plays. The substitute here suggested, besides preventing in a great degree these evils and dangers, and that fatigue and unfitness for study produced by violent play, would afford much more certainly and regularly the gentle and uniform exercise necessary to the health and vigour of the youthful constitution. * See Stackhouse's History Bible 8 vo. vol. 6, page 252. " It was a received cus- u>rn among the Jews, for every man, of what rank or quality soeyer, to learn some handicraft ; for one of their proverbial expressions is, that whoever teaches not his son a trade, teaches him to be a thief. See also Annotations of Drusius upon Acts !8 chap. — " Sapientes olim arlificinm aliquod exercebaut, ne gravarent alios. Sic alius erat coriarius — alius, Librariua -alius, calcearius, aut sutor — alius, pistor." See also Grotius — ibidem — " Mos earat etiam doctissimia Judojorum opificium aliquod discere, unJe, ubi res ferret, se austenlarent. Erant, Pelliones, Sutores. Pi?tore6, Librarii, otra. 354 HINTS FOR IMPROVING Most of the unhappy exasperations and conflicts, which take place among boys assembled at school, originate in their warm competitions and eager endea- vours to excel each other in the games and amusements usually resorted to in leisure hours. Furnishing an easy and effectual remedy for this evil would be ac- complishing an object of no small magnitude. One great object contemplated in placing boys at school ought to be to ascertain the degree and the pe- culiar character of their talents, to discover towards what objects their genius tends most strongly, with a view to the judicious direction of their future and per- manent pursuits in life.* In order to bring this experi- ment to a successful issue, it ought not to be partially made ; mechanic arts and manual employments in some measure ought to be placed before every pupil and some attention to them required. Had this plan been faithfully pursued heretofore, our academies and perhaps colleges too, would have produced more good mechanics and not so many dull literati ! * The following anecdote will be appropriate here: it is extracted from the Christian's Magazine, vol. iii No. 3, page 447 " Some years ago a young man who had been originally a maker of brooms, and had "studied divinity," as it is termed for two or three sessions, was exhibiting a specimen of his improvement before a foreign presbytery : and acquitted him- self so little to their satisfaction, that they judged it necessary to remand him to his 3rst vocation, as more commensurate with his abilities. This decision was an- nounced by a venerable dd minister in the following manner: — " Young man: It is the duly of all men to glorify God. But he calls them to glorify Him in different ways, according to silts he bestows ou them Some he calls to glorify Him— by preaching the gospel of his Son ; and others by making besoms, (brooms.) Now it is the unanimous judgment of this presbytery that he has not called you to the ministry, since he h >s not qualified you for it • and therefore that it is ) our duty to go home to your father and glorify God by decent industry in making be- 10018." SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES. lij!i The plan proposed might be rendered an excellent security against the noisy habits, and above all, many of the vices, of which too much leisure and amusement, ure the fruitful source. Could not the alteration here contemplated be so modified as to become a powerful auxiliary in the gov* ernnn nt of youth I and be made the means of prevent- ing altogether the necessity of corporal punishment ? The last consideration is, that every man, whatever his grade of talent, his degree of education, and his sphere in life, ought to have a practical acquaintance ■with some mechanic art. Should he never pursue any branch of mechanical employ, his progress through life, his -espectabiiity, ease and comfort, will be greatly pro- moted by a general acquaintance with the common ne- cessary and useful arts and occupations of men. Quid niunus lleipublicoe majus aut melius oilere pos- simus, quani si juventutem bene erudiamus ? Cicero. Great exertions have recently been made to estab- lish new colleges in several states in the union, and measures have been adopted in some of the best institu- tions in our country, to enlarge and ameliorate their capacity for the accommodation and instruction of youth. But, notwithstanding, a University located near the cen- tre of the United States, amply endowed and extensive- ly patronised by the national government, is a desidera- tum of great magnitude. The wise and patriotic Wash- ington suggested an idea of this nature in his last will and testament, and the reasons on which he founded that intimation are still applicable in all their force. " It hae been," says he, "my ardent wish to see a plan devised on a liberal scale, which vonid have a tendency to 356 HINTS FOIt IMPROVING spread systematic ideas through all parts of this rising empire, thereby to do away local attachments and state prejudices, as far as the nature of things would, or in- deed ought to admit, from our national councils. Look- ing anxiously forward to the accomplishment of so de- sirable an object as this is, in my estimation, my mind has not been able to contemplate any plan more likely to effect the measure, than the establishment of a uni- versity in a central part of the United States, to which the youths of fortune and talents, from all parts thereof, might be sent for the completion of their education, in all the branches of polite literature, in the arts and sci- ences, in acquiring knowledge in the principles of poli- tics and good government : and, as a matter of infinite importance, in my judgment, by associating with each other and forming friendships in juvenile years, be ena- bled to free themselves, in a proper degree, from those lo- cal prejudices and habitual jealousies which have just been mentioned, and which, when carried to excess, are never failing sources of disquietude to the public mind, and pregnant of mischievous consequences." The colleges of the United States are so circumscri- bed in their resources and restricted in their views, as to embrace in their system of instruction only those subjects which are most common and essentia! in a lite- rary course. Other objects, hitherto neglected, are be- coming highly interesting. A university, established on a widely extended scale, so as to comprehend them all, would be truly worthy of national attention, and exten- sively conducive to national honour and interest. This institution, besides the classical, mathematical and philosophical professorships, ought to possess, SCIIOOLS AND COLLEGES. 357 1. A theological department, amply endowed for the purpose of teaching the elements of natural and reveal- ed religion, biblical and ecclesiastical history, moral and theological science in general. 2. It ought to include a professorship for the langua- ges of modern Europe. This would be a great convenience to young men of talent and enterprise, seeking education principally as an auxiliary in the honourable pursuits of foreign commerce. It would afford to American genius a more direct and easy access to those stores of polite and ac- complished literature, which have been accumulating for centuries in the South of Europe, but from which our sons must be excluded while ignorant of the lan- guages which are the only key to their depositories. And it would be an important accommodation to that part of our citizens who inhabit the regions in the South and West, where the French and Spanish especially, are becoming almost vernacular tongues. 3. A professorship for the purpose of extending the knowledge of the languages of the various nations of America, Asia and Africa. This would facilitate the necessary intercourse with the American tribes both in treaty and in traffic ; it would furnish a ready and happy assistant in carrying on the lucrative commerce with the Eastern World; it would extensively aid the glorious cause of foreign mis- sions, in promoting which, every American statesman and philanthropist should feel a pride and an interest; it would enlarge the compass of human knowledge, by extending the sphere of education in this Western land ; and in the course of time, by its indirect operation on the aborigines of India, Africa aud America, it might 358 HINTS FOR IMPROVING have extensive influence in producing that community of sentiment and manners, that amelioration of aspect and condition, which will soon, we hope, be exhibited by the human race. 4. In this institution provision should be made, in the best manner practicable, for exciting, directing and aid- ing the efforts of American genius, in the cultivation of the fine arts. With success in this department of science, the hon- our of the nation is closely connected. Europe claims pre-eminence in the arts, and looks down upon the Uni- ted States with disdain. Let every encouragement and facility for the successful cultivation of American talent and taste, be afforded by a liberal and enlightened gov- ernment, jealous of its own honour, and anxious for the best improvement of its own sons, in those arts and ac- complishments which peculiarly liberalize, elevate and adorn the human character. 5. This establishment ought to afford to American youth, the means of obtaining accurate theoretic and practical knowledge of agriculture. The course of improvement which this country seems destined to undergo, by means of canals, turnpikes, bridges, fortifications, &c. &c. will demand increasing- skill in mechanic arts and operations. The American people have also manifested a strong predilection for manufacturing pursuits of various kinds. These objects respectively are highly deserving of national patronage. But, from the extent of our territory, the excellence of our climate, the fertility of our soil, the ideas, habits and necessities of the people, agriculture appears likely to be the general and predominant occupation of the American States. And as a warrant for making a sys- B( MOOLS AND COLLEGES. 359 tern of instruction on this subject, an appendage of a great literary institution, it may be recollected that the example has been set in many of the most celebrated universities of Europe. A writer of considerable abil- ity, on the state of the university at Oxford, makes the following pertinent remarks : " Theology and classical literature have long flourished at Oxford, and in mod- ern times, mathematics have not been neglected. Let these, and all the sciences taught at our universities, expand their influence in every direction ; but that ag- riculture should be utterly neglected, and that Oxford and Cambridge should be the only two universities in the enlightened part of Europe without professors for teaching this most useful of all arts, is a circumstance that must excite some degree of surprise." The follow- ing remarks of the same writer, will apply to our own circumstances, and probably be approved by every reader : " Mere lectures are insufficient to command the attention, and give a turn to the pursuits of young men. The university abounds with those who are des- tined to be considerable land proprietors,^ and if the proper means w r ere used, it would not be difficult to en- gage them in inquiries which would form not only a most beneficial pursuit, but a rational, harmless and en- tertaining amusement. The effect might be durable, and must be advantageous to the best interests of the empire."f * This is literally true in regard to multitudes of young men pursuing then education in the American colleges. •f- See appendix, page 343, 8 vo. to the general view of the agriculture of Ox fordshire, drawn up by the secretary of the board and published in London 1813. 16 360 HINTS FOR IMPROVING, &C. 6. Considering the infant state of eloquence and polit- ical knowledge in the American republic, it appears reasonable and necessary, that, in the contemplated in- stitution, the duty of affording to American youth pro- found and expanded instruction, in civil and national law, in political economy, and on the whole science of government, should receive special attention. The spirit of our government, the nature of our climate, the lofty and independent sentiments of our citizens, and the peculiar character and power of genius which they have already manifested, at the bar and in the legisla- tive hall, inspire us with the pleasing expectation that the United States will soon possess many orators and statesmen, who will be the pride of their country, and may be the admiration of mankind. Animated by this hope, should not the genius of our sons be excited and fostered in the most efficient manner practicable? Can any thing be conceived more worthy the attention of the supreme legislature of an enlightened and liberal peo- ple, than providing suitable motives and facilities for this progress to national honour, greatness and glory 7 NOTE N. SKETCH OF REV. WILLIAM BOYD. The following brief sketch of the Rev. William Boyd, of Lamington, in the state of New-Jersey, was prepared soon after his decease, by the writer of the preceding narrative, and, at his request, published in the General Assembly's Missionary Magazine. It is introduced in this place, to give it that increased circulation, which the facts it records deserve. There are (ew duties in the discharge of which, a friend of pious worth can be more profitably engaged, than in that of endeavouring to keep in remembrance the characters and virtues of those great and good men, whom it has pleased God to take from this world to his immediate presence and enjoyment. Whilst it pre- serves their memories from unmerited oblivion, it ex- tends the knowledge of their virtues : it exalts the grace of God by displaying its happy effects in their holy con- versation : it often attracts the solemn attention of the wicked : and it always serves to guide the footsteps of those who desire to walk as becomes the gospel of Je- sus Christ. It is under a sense of the truth and importance of these observations, that the following sketch has been written of the late Rev. William Boyd, of Lamington, Somerset county, state of New-Jersey. 362 SKETCH Of Rol>ert Boyd, the grandfather of the subject ot tins memoir, was a native of Scotland. During a persecu- tion in that country he fled to Ireland, where John Boyd, the father of William, was born. After residing there for a considerable time, he removed with all his family, to America and settled in Pennsylvania. John, probably his eldest son, was married to a young lady, a native of that state, and settled near the same place in Franklin county. In this place was born, A. D. 1T58, William Boyd. He had three brothers and some sisters, several of whom are still living in respectability and usefulness. He was deprived of his father when about fifteen years of age. But this loss was more than made up to him, by that grace which it pleased the Father of mer- cies to manifest to his soul about the same time, in turn- ing him from darkness unto light. Although his patrimony w r as small, he was by some means prepared for college, and his education was completed under the presidency of Dr. Witherspoon, at Princeton, in the year 1778. His uncommon zeal and perseverance in study, appear to have proceeded from a strong desire, which he express- ed very early in life, to enter into the sacred ministry. The first few years which passed, after he received his degree at college, he spent in teaching an academy in the city, or vicinity of Annapolis, and in a private fami- ly near Baltimore. He was soon after licensed to preach the gospel by the Presbytery of Carlisle, under the direction of which he continued till he entered that of New-Brunswick. He remained for some time unset- tled, preaching as providence directed, in the states of Pennsylvania, New-Jersey, and New-York ; and his first ministrations were both popular and successful. Invitations and proposals to settle, crouded upon him KKV. WILLIAM UOVU. Uti'.j from different places. His talents could easily have procured lor him one of the most conspicuous vacancies in our country, but, as he informed the writer of this memoir, he chose a more humble and less public station. Young and inexperienced, our cities lilled with dissipa- tion and temptations of various kinds, would, he feared, draw him aside from that life of piety, and that plain, pointed, apostolic mode of preaching, which appeared to him so supremely excellent and necessary. So early was his dislike formed to the smooth temporising spiril which is too apt to insinuate itself into the pulpit, and to which young preachers are peculiarly exposed, be- fore they are seasoned and confirmed in grace, and when the sentiments of society in general, the pride of the human heart, the vice and the caprice of a populous city, arc all to be encountered. For these reasons Mr. Boyd determined on a retired situation, where he might execute his purpose of faithfully preaching the gospel, with less interruption and difficulty. He accordingly accepted the call that he received from the congrega- tion of Lamington, where he had bestowed some of his itinerating labours. Soon after his settlement in that congregation, in the year 1784, he was married to a daughter of Col. Taylor, who lived not far from the place of his residence. She proved to be a woman of much real worth, and completely calculated to make him happy. Whilst her piety and vivacity tended to cheer and enliven him in his dullest hours, when op- pressed with disease or exhausted by labor, her indus- try and discretion contributed much to their worldly- prosperity and to the regularity and success of their va- rious concerns. Happy in his pastoral and family rela- tions, he devoted himself with zeal and constancy to :J64 SKETCH OF the duties of his charge. Of a humble and domestic disposition, he seldom entered into the world but when called by the voice of duty. He delighted in the socie- ty of his wife and children, and devoted himself much to perusing carefully and repeatedly those books to which he had access in his retired circumstances. As a preacher of the gospel he was peculiarly excel- lent. Himself deeply penetrated with a sense of the to- tal depravity of the human heart, of its inability to per- form any thing acceptable to God without his gracious assistance, he endeavoured to impress these great and fundamental truths upon every heart. His principal objects were to demonstrate the necessity of a divine atonement and of faith in the Redeemer in order to jus- tification : to exalt and establish the grace of God upon the ruins of human pride and greatness ; to pour the con- solations and encouragements of the gospel into the humble and contrite heart! to expose the labyrinths of hypocrisy and the dangers of self deception : to awe or allure the wicked from those fatal refuges to which they often have recourse: in a word, to promote the glory of God, by the conversion of sinners and the edi- fication of saints. His talents were good and his acquire- ments very considerable. He was remarkable for quick- ness of apprehension, strength of memory, depth of pen- etration and soundness of judgment. These had all been improved and cultivated, by early, habitual and continued application. Hence it is easy to account for his extensive and accurate information, though much secluded from the world. He had studied human na- ture too, in its hidden springs and secret windings. Few men of the present age have acquired a more clear and extensive knowledge of the Sacred Scriptures, particularly of the New Testament. He possessed a UKV. WILLIAM BOYD. 365 mind happily formed for historical and theological stu- dies, for polite learning and profound investigation. In all the branches of science he had made considera- ble acquirements. He was an excellent classical schol- ar. He was thoroughly instructed and confirmed in the calvinistic doctrines. He was not ostentatious, but always sensible and pertinent in his pulpit discourses. Besides solid instructions, pathetic remonstrances and affectionate invitations, his sermons contained much matter that was original, the result of deep reflection. His views of divine subjects were often much expanded and highly elevated. But experimental, practical piety was the subject in which his soul most delighted, and which therefore, was the frequent theme of his public addresses. Being thoroughly furnished unto all good works arid from a child having known the Scriptures, he could use them aptly, for doctrine, for reproof for correction and for instruction in righteousness. His style of preaching was in general, simple and sol- emn, dignified and impressive. He was remarkable for a natural facility and perspicuity of expression. His ideas flowed freely and profusely. He spoke of di- vine things with that simplicity which indicated his fa- miliarity with them, and his sense of their infinite weight and importance. For a few years he adopted the cus- tom of writing his sermons and committing them to memory ; but for the remainder of his life he depended principally upon the vigour and promptness of his parts, upon the variety, and extent of his intellectual resour- ces, after he had studied and digested his subject. Method, natural and just was so much at his command, that it seemed difficult for him to depart from sys- tem in his discourses. He appeared without the least effort, to enter into the spirit of the gospel, and to 366 SKETCH OF illustrate and apply its truths. He was in general cool and deliberate, easy and graceful in his deliv- ery. His eye lively and penetrating, his counte- nance grave and solemn, his person regular and hand- some, his gestures natural and often striking, Lis voice sweet and commanding, all tended to give weight and impression to his words. But especially his holy exam- ple contributed much to enforce his doctrines. The delicate state of his health, to which immoderate study for a kw years after his settlement had reduced him, di«* not permit him often to indulge in that vehement address of which he was highly capable and to which the im- portance of his subjects and the warmth of his feelings often impelled him. There were, however, occasions, on which, passing the limits imposed by his debility, he displayed that justness and grandeur of sentiment, that purity and elegance of language, that warmth and ear- nestness of manner, which are the essentials of true elo- quence. He commonly spake as one having authority : his words could scarcely be resisted, carrying with them a kind of internal evidence that the speaker had been with God. But to the character and the fame of an orator he did not aspire. The flowers of rhetoric and the graces of expression, had little of his attention or concern. His supreme desire was to be a faithful ser- vant and humble follower of the blessed Redeemer. With such excellent natural endowments, with such a fund of acquired knowledge, with such an affectionate, benevolent heart, and especially, with such an active, glowing piety, it would be natural to anticipate from him more than usual success in the service of Christ. But, as with many other wise and good men, his labours were attended with only a gradual and ordinary increase of the church of which he had the charge. It is reasona- KEV. WILLIAM BOYD. 307 ble, however, to expect that the seeds which he hr.s scattered in the vineyard of God, will not be permitted to perish, but under the care and culture of the great Lord of the harvest, will yet be made to grow and bring forth fruit, to the praise of God's glorious grace and the salvation of immortal souls. And "if in the estimation of heaven, our services arc appreciated, not by the good we accomplish, but the sincerity, the strength and constancy of our exertions," great indeed is his reward in heaven. Mr. Boyd appears to have been formed not less for society than for the pulpit. As in the sacred desk,, so in the social circle, his manners were always becoming. His carriage was agreeable and unaffected ; his temper, naturally high, was reined in by reason and subdued by grace : his disposition was remarkably friendly and af- fectionate : he was sprightly and animated in conversa- tion ; he mingled condescension with dignity ; he had a happy turn of accommodating himself to the tempers and circumstances of others, without sanctioning what was wrong ; he abounded in anecdotes and historical narratives of families, of persons and of events, a knowl- edge of which he had acquired in his extensive early reading, in his journeyings, and in his personal observa- tions and intercourse among men. He could make himself agreeable and entertaining to persons in every rank and employment in life ; and in the whole of his conversation there was discoverable such a vein of gen- uine piety as to make him equally agreeable to the se- rious and venerable to the wicked. He exercised the highest degree of prudence and moderation in all his deportment. He abstained in a great measure from those endless controversies which constantly divide the A7 3G8 SKETCH OF world on the subjects of religion and politics. He pos- sessed his opinions, and they were generally founded in reason and equity; but he displayed the soundest dis- cretion, by declaring them only when there was a pros- pect of doing good, or at least, of not creating evil. He was a man of true and unfeigned humility. In the cir- cle in which he moved, he was the only one insensible of his worth and distinction. He knew so much of the glory and excellence of God, he realized so deeply and affectingly the vileness and vanity of man, that he thought himself the least of all saints. It is worthy of remark, that he was a sincere and par- ticular friend of youth. He seemed to be peculiarly concerned for their welfare. He used every means of encouraging the diffident, of stimulating the indolent, and of tempering the efforts of the ambitious. He af- fectionately took them by the hand, pressed them into his society, administered to them his counsels, and con- versed with them most familiarly and impressively. Following the law and example of our Lord, Whatso- ever ye would that men should do to you, do ye to them like- wise, Mr. Boyd was upright and liberal in his dealings : he was ever ready to forgive injuries and confer favours: he was incapable of wantonly aspersing the character of any man, even of an enemy. He had much firmness and independence of spirit, and at the same time much gentleness and condescension. He was really ami- able in all the relative characters of social life, as a husband, a father, a friend ; and his natural sweetness was rendered still more lovely and endearing by the charms of divine grace. He delighted most, as we have already hinted, in ab- straction from the world, and in secret communion with the Father of his spirit. Satisfied with his state, he REV. WILLIAM BOVD. 3G ( J Courted not the smiles of the affluent and vain glorious. Humble and unambitious, he cultivated principally an intimacy with heaven, and a meetncss for an inheritance among the saints in light. But the lustre with which he shone could not be con- fined to that retired corner which he had chosen for his abode. The public became acquainted with his worth. He was reverenced and esteemed by all who knew him, as an Israelite indeed. His opinions were regarded in ecclesiastical courts and assemblies with attention and solemnity, He was elected a Trustee of the College of New- Jersey a few years before his death, and continued in that capacity till his decease. Our view of this excellent man becomes most inter- esting, as we approach his final moments. Several times in the course of the last twenty years, he had been alarmed with a great weakness in his breast, a small dis- charge of blood from the lungs, and a hectic cough. These consumptive symptoms scarcely ever totally dis- appeared. But with great prudence and management, • he retained the ability of attending to the duties of his of- fice generally, until about the beginning of last March. He had been appointed by the Presbytery of New- Brunswick, to supply, at this time, in a neighbouring vacant congregation. The weather being cold and wet, the exposure was too great for his feeble constitu- tion. On his return he was seized with an obstinate fe- ver, the consumptive symptoms increased, and the disease became fixed. He continued in this weak and declin- ing state till May, on the fifteenth day of which month it pleased God to take him from the world. As his complaint was of the lingering kind, it afforded him an excellent opportunity of manifesting the power and glory of the religion of Jesus. And very seldom 370 SKETCH, &C indeed are we presented with such a complete and happy Christian triumph, as was beheld in this servant of the Lord. He had endured so many bodily pains in the course of life, that he had learned to be patient. He had anticipated death so often, and conversed with it so famil- iarly, that its terrors did not alarm him. The inmate of his bosom had several years before been taken from his embrace. By industry and economy he had amply pro- vided for the comfortable establishment in the world of his four surviving children. Although his attack was almost hopeless from the beginning, he was calm and re- signed. He remarked soon after its commencement, " I have for many years felt this weakness growing up- on me. I have a long time apprehended that I should fall a victim to it, and now the time is coming." Being asked whether, if such were the appointment of God,, he would be willing now to leave the world, he replied,. " I have been examining myself and searching out the evidence of my being in a state of grace, and upon the whole I feel pretty well satisfied that I have really un- dergone a gracious change ; and I am, therefore, willing to submit to God, knowing that his own time and way are best." He enjoyed constantly, through his tedious and painful illness, a high degree of those cheering hopes with which a lively faith in the Redeemer inspires its possessor. His faith was well founded and would therefore bear the strictest scrutiny. He had " the tes- timony of his conscience, that not with fleshly wisdom but by the grace of God, he had had his conversation in the world." His heaven commenced before his life was extinguished. His prospects brightened to the last. With his expiring breath he exclaimed, "I am not afraid to die !" Let me die the death of the righteous, and lei my last end be like his ! The printer thinks proper, injustice to the writer of (hii work, to rtate, that hi: igements were such, during the time of printing it, us to render it iniprac ticablc for him to superintend tlie correcting of th« press. ERRATA. Page 37, note, 4th line from bottom, for " or," read on. 00, do 1Mb for " last " t^aA first. ti'J, do 4Mi line — erase the mark of quotation before " A Committee, &c Co, 12th line Iromtop —The period at t lie word "prepared." should be «. comma — prepared, (i6, 16th line — lor " refreshing, read rushing. 7i, last line— for " ltflj," read lo!6. 78, bottom — for " interest " read interests. 117, bottom line— for period after the word "congregation." substitutes comma, thus — congregation, the 121, 3d line oi note— for " irrebuttable," read, ible. 1*8, 7th line— for. " so far communicated," read so far as communicated. 19'2, lor • de nalura. de oratore, Deornm," read de natura. Deorum, &c U18, end oi l4tu line— inseit " thus, the several churches ." 8th line from bottom — for "congregation," read aggregations. 2-0 in tlie nove near the bottom, for " this m«»an." read this means. 231, 1 8th line— for ' qualification " read qualifications. 271, 1 4 til line — forewords " iead records. 3a0, I tth line — for " adopt." read adapt 353, 3d line from bottom p.— for " enrat," read erat. 35'>, I7'h litie — for "offere," read afferre. 3J9, Jth line fiom bottom— for " in pursuing," read pursuing. U64, 1st line — read " Oi an humble."