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This work is intended chiefly for the members of a large family circle, and for numerous Christian and Temperance brethren and other friends and acquaint- ances ; some of whom have expressed a wish for certain portions of the narratives from the Author's hand. Ihtb Gha u V CONTENTS. A PASI. Intboduction, 3 Chap. 1. Perils and Pbbsbbvations, 9 " 2. Fbotidbntial Events, etc., 31 ** 3. Judicial Expbbibnoe, 49 " 4. Tempebancb Expebienoe, 76 5. Religious Expepie^'ce ,,. ' ■ ■ 15ft 1 . • m<' , ' ^'f . r*W XU'^MV'Tl^.l t 1, , _ UlH^ >;3i-.tiui-v; .'!l* Hi .r'lUi'^i:,i Win ■- .'^vif' ■; > / . . i- \ . . , I .' 1 1 ' ,V»: ;( Oil 5 INTRODUCTIOK. Of all the varieties of literary' works for public inspection, that which is called Autobiography ^ is almost invariably the most difficult of successful or satisfactory performance. This arises from several special considerations and causes ; some of them re- lating to the author himself, some to his relatives and friends, and others to the public, whose attention to the work, is, by the act of publication invited. As re- gards the Author, there is the liability to the objection, of his not having occupied such a prominent or inftu- ential position in society, or not having been the actor in any important or unconmion events, relating either to general or special aitairs, or interests, such as to wan*ant a call for public attention to th^ narra- tives submitted. Again, there is the liabilir ' and danger of even undesigned exaggeration in composing them, and of attaching undue importance to the events they disclose, or the effects which these are described, or are supposed to have produced. There is, also, the imperative demand for frankness, can- dour, and the whole unalloyed truth, as regards not only the principal facts, but the attending or connect- ing incidents of the narratives, so as to exhibit their true character on all points ; and free of all such embellishments in description, as would suggest or warrant a charge of egotism or vanity. With refer- 1^1 mTRODUGTION» / ence to relatives and friends, all the requisites just mentioned, as applying to the writer himself, are to be borne in mind and carefully fulfilled. There must, also, be the avoidance of all such narmtion, or par- ticulars, as are evidently uninteresting to the public, or destitute of useful information or instruction, so that the persons thus connected with the writer, may not be in any degree pained, or oftendjjd, by the just censure of any part of the work, either as to the facts, sentiments, or disclosures, or the npiHt or manner in which they are exhibited. ' ? it As regards the public, there is, first', — the con- sideration, how far it is excusable or proper, or may be useful, to call their attention to such personal memoirs, and the reflections or inferences of the writer (concerning them ? In their construction, there must be the earnest endeavour to make them of such a description, both as to all their incidents and circumstiinces, and the language and manner of ex- hibiting them, as will serve to manifest the fixed ilesign of the writer, to inculcate or explain some usefiil truth, or effect some generally interesting or valuable purpose. It is obvious, that these various important essentials, belonging to such a species of literary composition, render its satisfactory perfor- mance a work of t^xtreme delicacy, and of anxious thought and cai^. How far 1 have succeeded, in the following memoir, in fulfilling any or all of the specifi- ed requisites, only the judicious and candid reader can fairly determine. As to personal memoirs, in gen- enil, it may be remarked, that there is in the history of every individual, what may not improperly be ealled — ii secret or hidden life, of which many parti- culars of conduct, as well as mental exercises and purposes, are known only to himself. By a fair dis- closure, some of these private engagements of thought or activity, may serve as lessons of insti'uc- tion, or as warnings and guardian restraints, or INTRODUCTION. directions for conduct. Tlie experience of otbern, in the cares and struggles of life, and whether the course has been one of wisdom and prudence^ or of error and consequent dimj/pointment and tm/iappiness, may always, if properh' contemplated, be productive of some degi'ee of l)eneiit; especially in one of the former description. Instances of providential fa- vours and blessings ; of success in persevering eftbrts for the attainment of useful or laudable objects ; of patient and honest struggles with adverse and pain- ful circumstances ; of fortitude and resignation under severe and trying events ; and of deliverances in seasons of peril, or distressing anxiety, arc well adapted to afford that encoui'agement and stimulus to well-directed activity, which all need, in passing through this state of probationary discipline. Of my own protracted life, upwards of T)? years may be said to have been of a public character^ in several lines or forms of activity. These are known not only to a large family circle and to many friends, but to a considerable extent, to the public in this my native country ; as also to gw^at numbers in several other lands, in whi(;h a large portion of my most active efforts have been employed. Should there be any disposition to enquire, or desire to know, the reasons or motives which have induced me to publish this memoir, I think I can afford not merely an ex- cusable answer, but one which will be satisfactory to every unprejudiced and candid mind. First, then, I will say, that I think it is not only allowable, but a becoming duty ; and most probably will be useful to some, to record thus publicly my grateful thanks to my Divine Benefactor, for His very many gracious dispensations towards me, in the performance of my various public engagements; for His merciful and watchful care and protection, throughout my xety extended journeyings in different lands ; and alx)ve all for the numerous preservations and deliverances INTRODUCTION. y / . He has aflbrded me in seasons ot' extreme diffioolty and peril. The most of these instances of providen- tial mercy — and some of them of rather an extra- ordinary nature — will be found in chap. 1 , entitkd, — ** Perils and Preservations." The providential leading and determining events, as to succeeding life, given in the next chapter, will, I am well aware, be viewed very differently, by various classes of readfers. The sceptic, or unbeliever, as to any special prmndence of a personal nature ; and the reckless or careless wayfarer in the journey of life, will, most probably, as a matter of course, disbelieve and reject the infer- ences and conclusions drawn from the events and circumstances described ; and will consider such inferences to be the offspring of fanaticism, or of mere imaginative and delusive views and supposi- tions, rather than the conclusions of an intelligent and discriminating judgment. But, by the christian believer in such a personal providence, the instances of the kind which are given as my own experiencx^, will, I am ex)nfident, be properly estimated and re- garded ; and may lead him to call to mind, with grateful and instructive emotions, some instances of the like providential and favorable guiding and determining events in his own histoiy ; or serve as a fresh incentive to seek for such guidance in any season of doubt or perplexity. These, and other appropriate considerations, will furnish a justifiable reason for the publication of this portion of the memoir. - nm'W The Judicial experience, given in the next chapter, was to a great tixtent, of a special or uncommon description, owing to reasons and circumstances which are there stated and explained. Several of the instances related, will serve to show most re- markably, the operations of a Divine providence in the detection and punishment of atrocious crimes, while some others will exhibit a like special but 11^ CNTBODUGTION. ^ rartvaiiiing and iavouping providence, in the preveu- tien of intended criminal acts. ~i The next chapter, narrating my long continued journeyings and efforts in behalf of the Temperance Reform, in various countries, with the numerous events and incidents mentioned, if not interesting to the public generally, will, T am confident, be especi> ally acceptable to a very extended circle of the friends and supporters of that excellent cause, to whom, in all those countries, J am known, either personally, or by general repute. It is proper 1 should here mention, that the expremed denire of several of those friends of the reform, that I would afford a naiTative of my efforts tor its advancement, together with my own earnest inclinations still to do what i can, in any and every mode, to favour it, have been the chief reasons for my publishing this part of the memoir. In a lesaer number ol copies of the work, 1 have added a chapter, comprising the chief facts and circum- stances of my feligiouH exfperience, with several pass- ages of Scripture relating to experimental Christianity : also reflections and remarks on that most importfint oi all subjects. These copies are int >i quiiintances. Hoping the memoir may. at least, aftbixl some fair degree of interesting and useful information and in- struction, I now offer it to the public attention. ti J. (jr. Marshall. ■/^ :.i%^mgH ■'Ctrnf^ '■■r^:^r m PERILS AND PRKSKRVATIONS. The first remarkable instance in my experience, belonging to this title, occurred ^ if I remember //^ li ghtly, in the year 1798, when 1 was between 11 and [ / 1 2 yea rs ot agel My c-sftlest brother was then in the V eniplo^V Ul !i ItV'ni of merchants in Halifax. By the kindness of my parents, who resided in a distant county-town, I was allowed to take passage in a c<)asting vessel, to visit my brother, and see the attractions of the (*apitiil. As well as 1 can remem- ber, it was in the month of April. There were other passengers, one of whom was a militiiry officer, a friend of my father, who placed me under his charge, and with whom I was to remain while in the town. The owner of the vessel, an elderly gentleman, was also on board. Nothing matt som«» of the militar}* stations, and boats well PERILS AND PBESERVATI0N8. 11 manned, can^ lown from several of them, and as ihe storm had so.> &what abated, by fastenrng ropes from the vessel, to the bows and stems of the boats, and taking the prefer advantage of the retreat and flow of the waves, the boats were drawn through the surff and thus we all escaped safe to land. At the time of this providential preservation, I thought little of it, if at all in that view ; but in my latter years, and under religious feelings, it has often occurred to me, as one among the many deliverances from extreme peril, which in the course of my long and varied life, I have experienced from a gracious and watchful Providence. nt , ;. (.; ■U The next special instance of personal danger and deliverance, occurred in the autumn of the year 1808, on a jour ne y on horseback, from thp^ Capital of the ■frovmce, lo the (Jounty-town where^ my parents ^Xesid ea, aistant about 15U mTIe s^ With reference to ' PERILS AND PRESERVATIONS. 17 weak, but still stiniggled on, knowing that it' I did not get out of the woods, I would most probably, through the intense cold, perish there in the course of the night. While in this extremity, but still persevering, I at length emerged from the woods, and discerned the glimmering light of a dwelling, and mounting on my snow-shoes, descended a hiU, and reached the cottage which contained the light. I was so much exhausted, that soon after entering, such a fainting sensation came on, as I do not recol- lect having ever experienced either before or since. During the three following days, to the end of my journey, I experienced no circumstances of danger, though some of difficulty, and also of severe pain on the last day, when one of A scene of rather extreme danger, through which two of my daughters and myself were providentially preserved, occurred in the summer of the year 1833. We were passengers in a schooner bound from Halifax, to Sydney, in the Island of Cape Breton. The master was not well acquainted with the harbours on the coast, and his crew was deficient as to number and ability. On the second or third day after we left Halfax. a violent storm of wind from the south-east came on, with torrents of rain, which compelled us to seek the first place which might serve as a harbor. This was a small place on a part of the coast culled Torbay. The ordinary passjigc for cntei'ing it, was narrow, and ])etween two ledges of rocks, fronting the whole sweep of the ocean, and on which the sea was then dangerously breaking. Probably, owing to some defect in steering, we were obliged to make a tack or two, to get through the passage, and in doing so, the vessel did not answer well to her helm, and as she was falling away towards one of the ledges, an anchor was let down, which brought her up, but only for a f«'w minutes ; and as she began to drift nearer PERILS AND FRESERVATlONg. v.; some tack ts, an only earer to the ledge, and when quite close to a part of it, a second anchor was dropped. The two kept her from being entirely driven on the ledge ; but several times as she veered in different directions, with the violence of the wind and sea, her stern grazed a part of it. The storm still increased, and the rain and spray of the sea were drifting violently. Our Captain seemed stupified, or paralysed, either from fear, or some other cause. One of the crew and a boy, seemed of very little service, and the remaining seaman was partly lame, but I think I may truly say, that he and I were the most collected, and usefully active in this season of extremity. The small fishing craft were all rapidly making for the harbour, and I hailed several of them, and offered a good reward for their assistance, but they all kept on, and passed us, except one of the boats. Two or three men from this one were prevailed on to come on board, and they advised, — as the most practicable and safe mode for saving the vessel, — that a kedge anchor should be obtained from a person in the harbour, by which the vessel might be drawn off, so as to weigh the two anchors, and thus get her clear of the ledge. This advice being adopted, in order to expedite the fulfilment of the plan, I went in the boat with some of the men, to the place in the harbour where the kedge was to be obtained. It was readily got, and as may be sui)posed, I was, both going and returning, most anxiously watching the vessel, fearing she would ])e forced on the ledge before my return. Provi- dentially, this did not occur, and the kedge being dropped a sufficient distance from the vessel, she was drawn oft*, the two anchors were raised, and lastly the kedge, and by the assistance and skill of the fisher- men who came on board, the vessel was wore round the rock, and piloted through a narrow and rather unfrequented passage, into the harboin*. The gale, however, continued so fierce, that she was there 1 24 PERILS AND PRESERVATIONS. driven ashore from her anchors, but without any risk of life. M y daughters and m yself foun d a safe an d not uncoflitortable refine in the d^Tgiftii^ oi oiie^o f tne hospitttP ie iisnennen. rne next day it was tbund tliM the VBHrt^l was HO injured in the alfejr part, that she could not proceed without repair, and according!}' we had to remain part of two days, while that was being done. We then pmcoeded on our voyage, and arrived at the end of it, safely, the second or third day after. In thi * inntance, also, I recognize a gracious pro- vidential deliverance, for had the vessel been driven on the ledge, she must, uievitably, have soon been wrecked and Hunk, and it is not improbable that some of us would iiave found a watery grave. \ 'I Ln the wi nte r of 1837 ^ when residing in Sydney, in the JHiand oi' iJape Breton, I made a journey by land to Flalifax, a distance of about 300 miles; and on my return, (experienced oven a more imminent pei'Honal peril than any of the preceding ; and through which, also, I was providentially preserved. The object of the journey was, to make arrangements in the (/apital, for the publication of the first edition of my work, for '* ihe (jHidance of Just ken of the Peace and other piih/ir office rf< y-^' — a work which for up- wards of two years previous, 1 had been laboriously, and almost constimtly, employed in preparing for the press, and which was soon after published under a voW of the Legisluturc. That first journey was at-- U'udcd with souh* most extraordinary circmnsttinces as to W(mther, wliic^h causcKl great delay in my reach- ing the dapital ; and, consequently, made my return so nuieli later in the season than anticipated. At PERILS AND PRESERVATIONS. 25 that later period, the roads, as usual, became in a worse state, and the ice more dangerous than in the previous part of the season, when, but for that delay, I would have been returning. As those untoward circumstances tended, in some degree, to produce the personal peril I am about to relate ; and as the weather on that first or onward journey was so very uncommon, it may not be considered out of place, but even prove interesting, to give some of the inci- dents, as to my difficulties and delays in performing it. The snow was as deep as usual, or rather more so, when I lefk home, but I found little difficulty in reaching, in the usual time, a county-town about a third of the distance. But then my troubles began. Heavy falls of snow commenced, which prevailed for nine days and nights in snccesmon, and confined me for all that time at that stage of my journey. The weather having partially cleared off, and the snow falling but occasionally and lightly, I set out with three companions, who had also been detained there, though not so long as myself. The snow then must have been on an average or level at least iipivards of three feet., and many heavy banks of drift. The roads were filled with it, like all other parts. We were nearly three days, gaining only about 33 miles, to another town. The snow then commenced again to fall verv heavily : and the i()ane end neck of igan to sperate After , and I d, and 1 in any v^as the ay pre- When of my land or gone y, have ho ice, ind the to part water, by the as my It had I erty on his back would have been a public loss, for it consisted of the whole of the manuscript of the work I have mentioned, amounting to upwards of thirteen hundred pages. I had no other prepared copy, and had it been lost, it is not very probable I would have undertaken the arduous and protracted labour, of again preparing the work. ^ The next scene of danger, of a special natm*e, through which I was providentially preserved, occur- red a few years after the one last described ; and though not one of such extreme or imminent peril, yet it seems to require a place here ; and may be interesting to some readers, and will serve to show some of the difficulties and uncertainties of travelling, in comparatively new countries. I was again on a journey between the same two places, mentioned in the preceding narrative. It was early in the spring, when the drift ice from a northern quaiter, invariably comes down on most parts of the coast of the Island of Cape Breton. Arriving late in the afternoon of Saturday, at the Strait of Canso, — which separates that Island from the main land of Nova Scotia, — I felt desirous to get across the ferry, immediately, and spend a quiet Sabbath on that side ; and as the drift ice was constantly passing along the Strait, I was apprehensive that if I did not then get over, the ice might be brought down more closely and heavily, and so block up the passage, as to prevent my getting over for some days. The ferryman was from home, and thfjre was no boat at the place, but I was told there was a boat nearly a mile up the coast, which might serve to carry me over. Accordingly I pro- ceeded to the place, and found the boat high up on ill! ^ I M r / 'A 30 PERILS AND PRESERVATIONS. the beach, with two rather insufficient oars. Hailing obtained two men, as rowers, the boat was launched* and we set off. All was done so hastily, to save time, that it was not until we had got a short distance, that I perceived the boat was very leaky, and that both of the men were, what is commonly described as "the worse for liquor," — ^in fact, they were intoxicated. The wind was blowing strong, and the current mnning at the rate probably of 5 or 6 knots, or more, an hour, carrying the ice in scattered and dangerous clusters into the Strait. There was a small tin measure in the boat, which I kept in constant use, in hopes to keep the water in the boat so low as to reach the opposite shore in safety. It kept, however, constantly increasing ; and as we drew near to our intended place of landing, the wind and current were so strong against us, that we were carried below it, and close under a high and thickly wooded cape, which rises almost perpendicularly from the sea, and where it was impossible safely to land with the boat, and get to the road at the ferry place. Finding that we could not, against wind and current, reach any safe landing place, I directed the men to pull the boat round, and make for the side of the strait we had left. As this was being done, a cake of ice was driven against one side of the bow of the boat, which threw her round, so as gi'eatly to endanger her being upset. Happily, however, that calamity did not occur, but after proceeding a short distance on the return, finding the water in the boat still increasing, and that it had gained nearly a third of her depth, I took off my hat and employed it in discharging the water, during the rest of the passage back. One of the men said to me, " Oh Sir, don't spoil your hat,' to which I gave some such answer as this, '*You stupid man, do you suppose I will suffer myself to be drowned here, rather than injure or destroy a hat." Even this mode of discharging ;:v, SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 31 f Having mchec^) bo save [stance, id that scribed y were md the ! knots, ed and was a tept in 16 boat ty. It re drew e wind re were thickly icularly ifely to ^e ferry ind and ted the side of done, a lie bow mtly to er, that a short le boat a third 5d it ill passage r, don't answer 3 I will I injure barging the water 'barely sufficed for our preservation, for when we reached the shore, — more than a mile be' v where we had started, — ^there was still a consider- able depth of water in the boat. On the following Monday I got safely over, and pursued my journey. This preservation was another instance of the pro- tecting care of a merciful Providence. •■■i I CHAPTER II. PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS OF A SPECIAL NATURE, MATERIALLY AFFECTING MY SUBSEQUENT HISTORY. There is scarcely any subject on which there is more general unbelief, and often open denial, than that of there being any special or particular divine direction, or providential interference, in the the conduct or affairs of individuals. Even among pro- fessors of the true religion, the belief of such provi- dential interposition, of a personal description, is far from being universally admitted. Whether ihis state of mind is attributable to its native blindness and pride, and the strength and perverseness of the wiU^ or to other causes, it may be of little use to enquire, and will, indeed, be very difficult to ascertain, with anything like certainty. Most per- sons, it is true, except those who altogether disbe- lieve and reject divine revelation, will, in a general way, admit a Divine overruling government in the affairs of nations, and of the world at large ; but as to any similar government, or rather of direction, or influence of any kind, with reference to personal con- cerns, or conduct, they are generally inclined to be incredulous, or are decided unbelievers. And yet, if the subject of a Divine Providence in the govern- I :'! 1/ m ill! W 111; m SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. ment of the world, is seriously and justly considered, it must be evident, that a providential interference as to individuals^ is not only as reasonable and credible as one of a general nature^ but that such overruling government of the whole, does, in reality, either directly or indirectly, involve and include such providential interposition, or interference of an individual description. In all mental and moral acts and results, and throughout the natural world, every whole, or aggregate^ is formed, and consists of the combination of distinct and separate parts, or parti- culars. The very terms, general and whole, always imply a union of constituent parts. Any contrary' idea would be an absurdity. But all doubts or merely hiunan reasonings, or inferences, on the point, should be superseded and silenced ])y the ^ records of Divine truth. These declare, that, — *' a man's heart deviseth his way, but tli? Lord directeth Ids steps;" — that "man's goings are of the Lord, how, then, can a man understand his own way ;" — that " the lot is cast into the lap. but the whole dis- posing thereof, is of the Lord ;' - -tLrt tliough " the horse is prepjired against the djiy of battle, yet safety is of the Lord ;" — that " he pntteth downo?ie, and setteth up aiiotlier."' Now it will be observed, that all these pointed and express declarations, as to providential interference and decision, are applied, not as to nations, or other bodies of men, or even of rulers, or other eminent characters, divinely chosen, or permitted to occupy exalted stations, for the pur- pose of accomplishing certain special providential designs, whether religious, or merely secular ; but they expressly relate, and apply, to individuals, of ev^rv class and degrer^; and throughout all the varie- ties of human life and (employment. In truth, every seriously thoughtful person, who, from time to time, looks })ack on his career in life, as all ought to do, will be led, more or less clearly and broadly, to see Hi ^ vL>^ SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 38 marked instances of determining events in his history, which have occurred, either contrary to his desigifs, or expectations, or to which his own intentions or pursuits, did not seem to lead, or produce. Several of such instances, of a very marked de- scription, have occurred in my personal history, both of a private and public character, which have most materially affected the course and events of my protracted journey in life. A few of such instances I will here relate, in the hope that they may not only prove interesting to some who read these pages, but may induce them to call to mind, material occur- rences in their own histories, which serve to mark the designs and influence of a special and gracious Providence towards them. The first of su(^h instances in my own experience, which I can recollect, as requiring mention, has reference to my entering into the marriage relation. WhftTi a littlft ovfiv 20 vears of age, and while pursu- m g the studies of m y profession in the Capital. I will canclidly c oniess, that i n desirinl after enjoyment, r 'wits quite a s _ c ourses ot t olly aiidva ni^, as mogfo ther young me n, and in associatioii with companions of similar desires and pursuits, was exposed to becoming involved in more serious evils. To say the least, I was, at that iring and \ _ "ardentl^^^ursumg critical period^ m danger of forming habits, which most probably would have proved very materially injurious to my future welfare and happiness. J^hortly afte r entering on this dangerous course, I became acquaint- ^ wit h-h^r whr> has beenl; hecompa m mror^ ,loys , a jid cares, and sor rows, in tite path o f life ^r upwards 5(5 vears. 5Ee"was aBout mv own age. anJT was of ^ndsome in personal appearan ce, andpossessed many other superior attractions . I confe ss it was these personal attractions of my companion, which rirst drew m e soardentl y towar d s her ; butjin ^e_iiflurse of our very protra^ed u nion, it has be en made^fiilly .iiU r':1! it- SPEGIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. «i|i tnifest, that she pos sessed many quali ties of an ^^_tA^Mif£j-fliT^^ " ^Srm^ ^fo'mawe chSac teri So soon as our mutual attachment was foimed, I was by the power of this virtuous affection, withdrawn from my previous improper associations and pursuits ; and spent the greater part of my leisure hours, in her companv. and that of her amiable sister , or in the circle of their re8^[ectable iriends jiad.a gS[^Q^^itance s. 1 have" often since^iewed this attachment, at the particular period when it was fonned, as a special and gracious providential event, restraining from youth- ful dangers ; and moreover, powerfully serving to stimulate me, to diligent and persevering study, to acquire a competent knowledge of my profession, and for its early successful practice, in order to our speedy union, and subsequently, for the adequate and respectable support of a family. There was this further beneiit from that withdrawal from dangerous companionships and pursuits, and from the forming of that affectionate attachment, that I was led to think of the disadvantage I would (jxperienc^e when admitted to the practice of the profession, from the want of a sufficient number of legal Treatises, before being able to obtain the means to purchase them. To relievo, therefore, as far as possible, that prospec- tive want, T employed myself, at leisure hours, during more than a year previous to my admission, in transcribing in a condensed form, into several blank books, which I got prepared for the piu'pose, the decisions in all such cases, — reported in the English books, in the library of the gentleman with whom I was studying, — as were at all likely to apply as authorities, or precedents, in the Provincial Courts. It is quite probable, this would not have been done, had there not been those apecial motives mentioned, to stimulate me to the utmost endeavours, for early and successful professional practice. I frequently foiuid those transcriptions very useful, in the way of SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 05 reference, and, therefore, strongly recommend the like employment, to students in the profession, who, as it was with me, have not the means of procuring a sufficient library at the commencement of their practice. Some time after I was withdrawn from judicial duties, the 3 Volumes of those manuscript cases, were purchased from me by one of the profession. The place where I first established my residence for the practice of my profession, I have often thought, was also determined on, through providen- tial influence and guidance, though, at the time, nothing of the kind occurred to my mind. Imme- diately on my admission at the Bar, in the Michael- mas Teim of the Supreme C oui't, in the year IM I set off on a journey, as it were at a venture, on a horse, with the needful appurtenances given to me . by my kind and generousjatbg r, and wit ha^nnt. jg^ in cash, and a goOd jjloc^^f appare l. C5iireaching the to^u 01 Truro, about (52 miles from the Capital, I made enquiries, and obtained the best information within my power, as to the probability of my gaining any establishment in practice tJiere, but after re- maining a few days, and finding little to encourage me, I went forward to the county-town of Amherst, in the northern extremity of the Province. There I remained about a fortnight, and having received only a guinea or two, during the time, and judging from information I received, and the circumstances which came to my knowledge, that the prospefct there of early success in practice, was rather discouraging than otherwise, I determined to depart for the town of Pictou, a large commercial place iii the eastern division of the Province. Accordingly I repaired thither, in the early part of November, in the same year, and took up my abode in the principal hotel in the town. There I waited for professional em- ployment, but it was more tardy in appearing, than u IIM\\ :ii!i 36 SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. the anxious and impulsive ardency of my feelings desired. The courts were not to be held there until early in February. As this time drew on, engage- ments commenced, writs were issued, defences undertaken, and i^etainern made their appearance, to a much larger amount than previously juiticipated. At that sitting of the civil and criminal courts, I made my first essay as a barrister, and had reason to think that I succeeded pretty fairly, for at the close of the teim, I was enabled to discharge my bill at the hotel, and all other claims, and had to the good, a smyUm of nearly as many gold pieces as one of my hands could contain. Immediately after, T set out on my pedestrial travel for a county-town about 100 miles distant, the description of which arduous jour- ney has been given in the preceding chapter. In the Courts there, in the succeeding month, I had very numerous engagements, and good success. Soon after my return to my place of residence, I found myself in possession of a surplus of gold coins, to contain which both hands were rcijuired. And here, — thanks to a gracious Providence, — I may say, that I have never since known any really pressing want for money, for any needful and proper pur- poses ; and further, that never since my admission at the ])ar, have I drawn, or received, any sum from my father, or any of my relatives or friends. Now, this detailed personal narrative, is intended to serve as introductory to the (;oncliision, which all the circumstances of it have impressed on my mind that there was, throughout, the inteiposition and guidance* of a benign and favouring Providence. The reasons for that belic^f are crhieiiy these : — Had I made my residence for [)rofcssional practice, in either of the two towns I tirst visited, more especially in the hitter one, I woidd have been so far distant from the county-town hist inentioned, and soon after, from another newly established place for holding SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 37 jelings e until ngage- jfences tice, to ipated. mrts, I tisoii to e close bill at ! good, I of my set out ut 100 18 jour- ;r. In , I had uccess. enee, I I coins, And ay say, ressing 31' pur- ssion at n from Courts in the same County, in both of which I always had a a large practice, that I would have been unable conveniently, or with equal pecuniary advantage, to attend the Courts in that County, as I constantly did, from the town where I established my residence. Moreover, for the same reason, as to the distance of the two places lirst visited, from that County where I had such lucrative practice, it is not at all probable, I would ever have become a member for that County, in the Provincial Parliament. In the third year after I had become resident as already mentioned, I suc- ceeded my venerable father, as such member for that County. This honorable and responsible situa- tion I held for 10 years ; and it chiefly influenced, or induced, my removal to the Capital, and to a far more extensive and lucrative practice ; and subse- quently, to my judicial appointments for the Island of Cape Breton. These offices I held for 18 years, until withdrawn from all judicial duties, and placed upon a life pension, at the time tliose offices, and alll others of a similav kind, in the Province, were annulled. [tended lich all y mind )n and idcnce. :— Had tice, in )ecially distant n after, lolding The circumstances under which my election as a • member o( the Provincial Parlinment took place, form another, and indeed, the most marked instance in my history, of the influence and determining results of a parficidar Providence. My venerate d father, was what]s<;enc rally ternTed a popular ■'jjei sou, M ild di'Servedly so, fOl' he was benevolent in liis feelings towards his fellow-men ; and ever frank and upright in his intercourse and transactions with them. He had been one of the m embers fo r the county ill whicll he resided, for 14 "years, down to_. :'i k S^ 88 SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 4i 'i ij, I 1< il Ji.;" the year 1 811. As he was always affectionately and %enerousTy desirous, to assist towards my honorable advancement and welfare, he suggested, and it was fully an'anged, that at the election for members which was to take place in that year, I should be offered as a candidate instead of him. A gentleman residing near to my father, and intimately connected with one of the most influential families in the county, was also to off(jr. Until the day that the election was to commence, it was not known to a certainty, that Mr. C , who, in the last Parliament, had been the wortliy colleague of my father, would again come forward. However, on the morning of the day for opening the jjoll, he made his appearance, and signi- fied his intention to offer. An interview and com- munications were immediately held, between my father and him, and the other candidjite, and his friends, at which I was not present^ being engaged elsewhere ; and they all concluded, that to avoid the uncertainiy, expense, and other evils of a contest, it was for th(; best, that 1, and the other intended new candidat<5, should refrain from offering, and that my father and Mr. (J , the previous members, should again be; elecjted. It is most probable, that my father was in(ln(;ed to acquiesce in this arrangement, fnjm a knowK^dge of the uncertainties of contests in such popular (ilections, and the expenses attending them, whi(;h evils he was desirous, and felt it proper, I shoidd avoid incurring. On hearing of this ar- ' rangeujcnt, just bcfon^ the proceedings for the eleMccrnliig tlu^ matter. This was done in tlic prcsciMc of my venerable mother — a wcnnan of superior undcrHtandingiind discermnei't, a)id who was fondly attached to me. As 1 was pucing the /^ ^ SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 39 was sup- Ou must room, and expressing my displeasure and annoyance, she said to me very calmly and emphatically — and I have never forgotten the exact words, * *Well Jo hn, why not offer now." Such a thought had never 'bccuiTed lu me, but it impressed me most forcibly, and I instantly adopted the suggestion. Proceeding immediately to the Court-house, where the election was being held, I found that the proceedings were being delayed, until the close of an hour, after the last of a few votes had been taken, at the end of which, the old members would have been declared duly elected. I called aside my eldest brother, who was ever ready to do any thing for me, and requested him to propose me as a candidate, and he did so. I made a very short address to the electors, and my brother, and as far as I can recollect, one or two others having voted for mo, I demanded of the Sheriff, the removal of the poll to the next place, then, by law, appointed for conducting the election. Of this adjourned holding of the poll, 10 days pre- vious notice was required to be given ])y the Sheriff. It had so happened, that the writ for holding the election, was returnable within those 10 days ; and, therefore, the Sheriff declared to the effect, that it would be useless to proceed any further ; and that he would return the writ, as required, and obtain another, with sufficient time for perfecting the election. He thereupon declared the proceedhigs closed. Now, it is true, that my thus offering myself, may, at tinstvie w, seem liljc ;ui o]mositi()n ^to my fath er ; but it wa s^not mtemleil^\(r^ \W[\^ it reo TUf so. There wH^ nTTTaw, or rule, to prevent hot/t of us being returned ; and whatever opposition 1 designed at the time, was cei*tjunly not to my father, but to the other candidate. Mjn'oover, as I knew tlie election could not be concluded under that writ, I wished to gain time to confer more deliberately with my father, on B m 40 SPECIAL PKOVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 'i ' ;!i i li- the subject, than I had been enabled to do on that occasion, and thus to come to some satisfactory conclusion.* He did not express ^ and I am confident did not feel, the least displeasure, at my conduct ; and before the close of the day, perfectly consented to withdraw in mv favour, and afford me his utmost support on the next occasion. Diu-iiig the month or more preceding the day aj^pointed for commencing the election, under the second writ — after making a short visit to my home, — I set out on my second electioneering tour; and made it one of a very special description. I travelled on horseback through the greater part of the County, calling at private dwellings, and attending public meetings, making myself, and my views and intentions, on the whole subject, more fully known to the population gener- ally. My brother, whom I have me nti oned, Ava s Adjutant ot the battalio n of Militia, o"! "which m y ' tather was Colonel, and as th e meetings ot thtitjim^e J\vei'e tiikiiiiT place ai the time, 1 jHen atten^ d on those occasions, aud^al tile close of the exercises, addressed the people on the subject of my visits. By all these means, and through the exertions of my friends, my interest in the County was so greatly increased, that there remained little or no doubt of my success. The same gentleman already mentioned, who had at first intended to offer, on the previous occasion, was again making interest for appearing as , a candidate. ()n the day of commencing the election under tlic n("w writ, the same Mr. C , the former member, again came to the county-town, where the poll was to l)e opened, but most prol)ably, from find- ing that his i)rospect of success w.'is not equal to that of the other candidate, and my own, or for other reasons, he declined the final contest, and the other gentleman and myself were declared, and returned, duly elected. I may liere mention, what, perhaps, seldom occurs in the case of o])posing candidates, on SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. u such occasions, that throughout these proceedings, no breach of the previous intercourse, and mutual regard, between Mr. C and myself was made ; and very shortly after, he became my worthy aijd esteemed colleague, for several years in the Repre- sentation of the County. In the latter period of his life, more especially, he added to his other estimable qualities, a deeper and more active piety, and has long since passed away to the mansions of the blessed. The Parliament into which I was elected, continued to sit for 7 years, the full duration then by law allowed. Two years previous to the expiration of that period, the gentleman with Avhom I had studied my profession, and who was Speaker of the House, was appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court. He had always been my (extremely Jcind, Jirm, and genevous fnend, and on his appointment, he sug- gested to me, that I should enter into partnership with his nei)hevv, who had shortly before, been admitted at the bar ; (uid that we should enter on the extensive and lucrative practice he had left. The proposed arrangeme nt was speedily (concluded, and a few m onths litter, m the year "18 1 6, 1 removed with inv fam ily tO th o Cdt^i tal; anrt entered upon tlie greatlyTvxtended, and laT more trying and arduous sphere of professional duties. In this enlarged practice, I continued from 1816 until 1823 ; and for all but two years of an intervening })ortion of that period, was a Representative, as before, for the same County. In that yi^ar, 1823, I was a])pointed to judicial offices for tlie Island of Cai)e Breton, as previously mentiont;d. I have carried out this long narration, to show, that viewing it throughout, it fonns a sufficient, or at least a rational foundation, for my firm conclusion, that as to several of the results of the proceedings and events related, there was the influence, or guidance, of n particular and I may further say, on the whole, of a gracious and iil! I ! I :k' .::!! ' ! P!' j III II' i\'i' i f ».■;;! ''!; 42 SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. favouring Providence. The following are some of the itjasons for that conclusion. First — Had I not immediately acted on the suggestion mentioned, and which led to the delay of the election in 1811, and which afforded the time and means of afterwards ob- taining a seat in the Parliament, it seems most probable from several circumstances which need not be mention- ed that the arrangement which caused my removal to the Capital, would not have taken place, but I would have remained merely a " country practitioner ;" and for the seven years mentioned would certainly have remained without a seat in the Legislature ; and possibly, might never have obtained that influential position. And I may further say, that my being in the Parliament, together with my professional standing in the Capital, there is reason to think, con- tributed in some considerable degree, to my obtain- ing the judicial offices in Cape Breton. These several most important events in my histoiy, may{ under all the circumstances mentioned, be viewed as the results of my immediate action on the suggestion of offering as a candidate on the occasion lii'st described. Had there been less than even half an hom*'s delay of compliance with that suggestion, no such action as described could have )>een taken upon it ; and consequently, the results mentioned would not have occurred; and of course, very different would have lieen the events, and the character, of my t*ul)se(picnt history. It is an old saying, and has often been repeated, that *' there is a tide in the affairs of men ;" but this opinion, if formed indepen- dent of any view to a providential interposition, is, in reality, but the product of a jyresitmptuous sceptic- imUf as to revealed truth on the subject. That truth shows with sufficient precision, and clearness, that both as to IndividuaU and nations, the current is under the direction and control of an Almighty and wise Providence, but whether for n^eal or for ivoe in a a SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 43 the results, depends on the conduct of those con- cerned. And well it is for all, that there is such a providential interposition and control, for were it otherwise the condition of our ]>lind and sinful humanity, would surely^ be far more criminal and distressed than it really is, and piety and virtue would be more frequently persecuted and oppressed ; and iri'eligion Jind vice be more daringly prevalent and injurious. Another rather marked providential event in my history, occurred in the year 1841. By a law passed in the Provincial Parliament, in that year, the offices, which three other gentlemen and myself, held, as Chief Justices in the Courts of Common Pleas and General Sessions, were abolished, and we were placed on pensions for life ; the tirst mentioned Courts being at the same time annulled. That law provided for the api)ointmcnt t)f an additional Judge of the Supreme Court, and made any one of ws, so withdrawn from the bench, eligible to that additional office. I immediately applied for it, and as I was the senior Judge of the fom\ and except one, who did not desire the office, was by many years the oldest as a barrister, had the then Lieutenant Governor consulted his Council, as he should have done, I would most undoubtedlv have obtained the office. But instead of doing so, before even giving his assent to the bill, whereby it became a law, he wrote a note, which I saw many years after, annexed to a public paper, in which note, as an act of mere favoritmn, he made an ofler of that additional ap- pointment, to one of the other gentlemen, who forthwith accepted it. His Lordship's answer to my 6 fliill 44 SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. m\ t';;'i'iii:i'. application, is comprised in this brief sentence, — *' I exceedingly regret, that I have it not in my power to comply with the request contained in your letter." This was indeed literally true, after his premature offer just mentioned. Foi; several reasons, indeed, I had not much inducement or even desire to obtain the office ; but my family and friends thought I was entitled to it, and wished me to make the application. Very soon after this disappointment, if such it may be called, circumstances and events occurred, which led to the conviction I have ever since retained, that there was, in that failure of again being placed in a public office, a providential interposition and direc- tion, as to the su))sequent course and employments of my life ; and on the whole, of a favorable description, as to my public usefulness, and personal satisfaction. Had I obtained the judicial office, I might, indeed, have been usefully occupied in the discharge of its duties ; and probably, even to the present time ; which would have been a saving to the Provincial revenue, of some thousands of pouiuis. But it has long been my decided convicition, that 1 have been very far mor(^ advantageously employed in promot- ing the welfare of my fellow-men, in the various pursuits and engagements in which my attention and exertions have since been engaged. Most especially, may T be permitted to say , have those exertions been useful in the Temperance Reformation, as will clearly appear in the section of this work, which sets forth my labours and experience in that great movement, so extensively promotive of the interests of religion and morality. Had I obtained the judicial office, its constant duties would have almost entirely prevented me, from affording my public advocacy to that excel- lent work, as also from giving assistance on some other subjects of benevolence and religion, on which, 1 feel convinced, I have for many years past, been even more usefully employed, than I would have been in the fulfilment of judicial duties. SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 45 mce, — power letter." mature indeed, obtain b I was ication. it may , which id, that ied in a I direc- lents of piption, faction, indeed, e of its time ; >vincial t it has e been >romot- various ion and ecially, IS been clearly 8 forth ement, eligion Kce, its vented ; excel- some which, t, been re been The last instance I shall here give, and the only remaining one I remember, showing a marked providential interposition of a personal description, occurred in the year 1^^'\ wheji I was residing in Nova Scotia. A general election of members for the Provincial Pai-liament took place in that year. Very ineonsiderately ^ as I was soon after convinced, I formed the intention of ottering as a candidate on that occasion. On making that intention known among some of my friends and acquaintances, one of them, who had extensive influence in a small consti- tuency, where many of the electors were of the same religious denomination, as himself, voluntarily offered to employ that influence, to procure my return for that township. Had I complied with the offer, circiunstances which afterwards came to my knowledge, but which it is needless to mention, convinced me, that my election would have taken place, and most probably Avithout opposition. But 1 declined to act on that offer, and (roncluded to proceed to the Island of (Jape Breton, where I had resided for many years, as a Judge, and had many friends, and to offer as a candidate for one of the counties there. Accordingly I hastened to the Capital, and after some delay in procuring a conveyance to the Island, embarked on board a coasting vessel, bound for the chief town of the county for which I intended to offer. From the time of our departure, the winds and Aveather proved unfavourable, and a day or two after we sailed, in attempting to enter a harbour, the vessel got agi'ound for a time, and was so injured, as to cause delay for needful examination and temporary repairs. She continued leaky during the rest of the voyage, and the wind still rather ahead ; and it was not until the second or third day after the accident, that I arrived at that county-town. But these were but slight impediments and discom- 46 SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. ■tf'tft! i;! ■•I 'I'!; l.iitfi fortS) compared with those I am about to relate. Knowing that a very large portion of the influence in my favour, regarding the election, was in a remote part of the county, I set out on horseback to visit it, and consult with my friends there. There were two ferries to be crossed before I could reach the place. When 1 commenced my journey in the morning, the weather was line, the sun shining brightly, and no signs of a storm ; but about two hom's after, snow began to fall, and rapidly increased, with a strong wind in my face ; and when I reached the first ferry place, about 17 miles from where I started, the snow-storm was so extremely violent, and drifting ; and the cold so severe, that the passage across could not be made ; and 1 was glad with the utmost haste, to get the nearest, and but very poor accommodations, for myself and horse. The storm of wind and snow raged during the whole night, and in the morning it was found, that the boat tor ferriage had been driven ashore, and so Avrecked, as to be unfit for use. Even if this had not occurred, the passage could not have been effected, as a heavy gale was still blowing, in an adverse direction. Under all these impediments and discouragements, which it seemed probable might continue for a day or two more, I concluded, because of time, and other circumstances, to forego that intended visit, and accordingly hastened back to the county-town as soon as the weather permitted. As the day for commencing the election drew near, not having had time to consult with, or hear from my friends in distant parts of the extensive county ; and knowing that an opposing candidate was strongly supported ; and was a gentleman of popular talents and influence ; and, moreover, having known by sad experience, on several occasions, the uncertainties and heavy expenses of elections in large counties, I concluded to decline the contest ; and accordingly on the opening SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. 47 relate, luence •emote o visit B were ch the in the hining it two •eased, eached here I at, and lassage ith the y poor storm tit, and erriage to be id, the ^y gale Under rhich it :>r two other it, and IS soon encing nic to t parts at an lid was ; and, ce, on heavy eluded pening of the poll, made an address, declaring my with- drawal, and the gentleman I have alluded to, was duly elected. It seemed, however, that he and his influential Mends were somewhat alarmed as to tbp result of a contest, for a number of public houses were opened to accommodate his supporters, which most certainly 1 would not have done. My own expenses were only those on the joumies by land and water, going and returning, and the short one on which the snow-storm arrested me. Directly after that close of the election, I embarked in a very comfortable vessel, on my return home ; and during all the short voyage, the wind and weather were fair and moderate, so much so, that I could sit and j^ke all my meals, without any disturbing motion, and nearly as comfortably in other particulars, as if taken in my own dwelling. Indeed, on the whole of the return, I experienced no impediment- or discomfort whatever. It no»v remains to mention, some of the facts and reasons which soon after the close of those occur- rences, fully convinced me, that this last, with perhaps one excerption, was a more marked and impressive instance, than any of those previously mentioned, of a providential intervention and guidance, and on the whole, of a description the most favorable to my comfort and usefulness, I am not so presumptumis or fanatical^ as to suppose that the winds and weather, and other particulars related, were providentially arranged, purposely to hinder, or specially bear on my design, but, in reality, they so operated, as to produce the results I have mentioned. For about two years previous to the events related, I had, almost constantly, and with rather extraordi- nary success, been engaged in the public and gratuitous advocacy of the great Temperance Reform, throughout every section of the Province, and 48 SPECIAL PROVIDENTIAL EVENTS. h'l'lil \ 111 *l\ ,\ i| I' 'i;ti ! m continued the same efforts nearly three years subse- quently, until the summer of 1846. At that time, chiefly for reasons relating to the welfare of my then reduced family, we all departed to Great Britain, where we remained for nearly 4 years. During the whole of this period, also, ] attbrded my gratuitous efforts in the same excellent work of Refonn, throughout England and Scotland, a part of Wales, a large poition of Ireland, and the Islands of Jersey, Guernsey, Orkney, and Zetland, thereby assisting to add many hundreds^ or possibly fhousands^ to that noble and truly beneficent cause. After my retuni from Great Britain, in 1850, I employed myself frequently in the same excellent work, for two succeeding years, and then repaired to Western Canada, through nearly all of which highly favoured and fruitful region, I spent the greatei- part of two years more, in the like efforts, and with cxtensivel}^ beneficial results. Now, I will briefly advert to some of the effects which would inevitably have folloAved, had I obtained a seat in the Parliament, in 1843. on the occasion mentioned. It would have prevented my visit to Europe, and my useful exertions there, in the Temperance cause ; and most probably in Canada, as well as have limited my labours and usefulness in the same cause, in Nova Scotia, and the other British (Colonies in North America, in- all times after that election. It would also have limited, if not entirely prevented, my exertions in other departments of usefulness, in which I was engaged, in all those subsequent periods. Moreover, — and what would have been disagreeable and unfavorable to me in many respects, — I would, of necessity, have become iuA^olved, more or less, in the — generally, worse than profitless — cares, discussions, and contentions, of the political arena; and with my naturally ardent feelings, and I think I may say independant mind, JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. 49 3ubse- time, y then ritain, ig the iiitous gfonii, ersey, ting to o that return myself »r two estern sToured of two isively effects )tained casion isit to n the anada, less in British jr that ntirely nts of those would me in )ecome 3e than of the ardent mind, would often have been ainioyed and disgusted, with the unjust and selfish designs and proceedings, of some unscrupulous and clamorous politicians, without my being able, through party strifes, to assist at all materially, towards effecting any really important and beneficial public measures. From all these impending, or threatened evils, I was saved, I am fully convinced, by the intervention and controlling power and direction of a favouring Providence ; and instead of comparatively profitless political anxieties and labours, I was, by the exertions mentioned, enabled to accomplish no small portion of good of a benevolent, moral, and even religious description, and with cheering satisfaction to my own mind. CHAPTER in. JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. In the year 1823, I was appointed to the judicial offices in the Island of Cape Breton, which have been already mentioned. The commission required me to reside in the Island, and accordingly I removed there, shortly after my appointment, and established my residence at Sydney, the principal town. The first criminal case, of any serious nature, which was tried before me \tas in that town in the same year. It was a case of the very worst description of violence on the person of a female. The prisoner was convicted, on the most satisfactory evidence, and I sentenced him to two years imprisonment in the Bridewell at Halifax, and he was put on board one of the colliers bound to that port : and under the charge of two peace officers, as guards, who were sufficiently armed, to prevent his escape, and the 50 JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. prisoner being confined in irons in the forecastle of the vessel. The vessel had to take in hex* cargo of coal, about 9 miles from the town, and near to the mines. At that time, there was a large proportion of the miners, lawless and violent characters, countrymen of the prisoner, and of the same religious faith. Tliese having heard of the conviction, and adjudged punishment of the prisoner, about 40 of them — as reported — conspired to rescue him, and effect his escape. Accordingly, while the vessel was lying at the wharf, taking in hei- cargo, a large number of the lawless band, with their faces dis- guised, rushed down the Shute, as it is called, by which the coal was being conveyed into the vessel, seized and secured the guards, carried away the prisoner to a ])lacksmith's shop near the mines, had his irons taken off, and set him at Iil)ertv. He was never afterwards captured, or suffered the punish- ment adjudged. This transaction gave me fully to understand what sort of people I had to deal with, as a Magistrate and eTudge, in that [lart of the County ; and I may further say, that in other parts of the Island, at that time, there were not a very few, who were of a similar lawless disposition and conduct. 1 have rejison to think, that for many late years, the propoi-tion of such reckless characters has l»een verv considerablv reduced. Th(^ next criminal case of a highly important nature, in which I had to act officially, came before nic in th(i .lutnnni of the year 1H24. It was a case of piracy and nuii'der, of a very atrocious nature, and the circumstances which attended it throughout were of rather an nncimnnon description. Several of the ])ai'tieuiars manifested, also, the accomplish- ment of a just and re/n'htfffve Pmrfdencp. The following are the principal circumstan<'es : — A vessel had letnrncMl to Boston, in the United States, from a voyage to some port in South America ; and a part JUDICIAL EXPEBIENCE. 51 3tle of ,rgo of to the 3ortion acters, iligioiis )n, and 40 of n, and sel was I large es dis- led, by vessel, ray the es, had He was punish- fnllv to il with, of the r parts a very ion and my late ters has portant before a case nature, ughont Several mpHsh- The vessel from a a part of her cargo consisted of boxes containing either specie, or uncoined silver. Soon after that return, she commenced a voyage to some port of Europe. The persons on board were, the Master, a mate, three seamen, and a cook. Two of the three seamen, formed a conspiracy, to murder the Captain and mate, and take possession of the vessel. Accordingly, at a late hour in the night, shortly after commencing the voyage, the Captain being asleep in his berth, the mate also asleep on a hen-coop on the deck, and the seaman and cook who were ignorant of the plot, being also in their berths in the forecastle, the two villains being the watch on deck, one of them, with an axe, dispatched the mate, and threw him over- board. One, or both of them, immediately went into the cabin, and in like manner murdered the Captain, and threw him into the sea. Previous to all this, they securely fastened the entrance to the forecastle, where the two men were, and in the morning when the fastening was removed, and the men came up and enquired about the captain and mate, the murderers said they had killed them, and thrown them overboard, and that if thei/ did not submit and be quiet, they would serve them in the same manner, or some other threatenings to that effect. These two men retained their innocence and integrity, as to the diabolical transaction, and the cook was even so bold as to tell the murderers, that if an opportunity offered he would inform against them. It seems probable, that they were tempted and induced to commit these horrible crimes, from knowing that the specie had been in the vessel on the previous voyage, and supposing that some, or all of it, was still on board. They took possession of the property of the captain and mate, and divided it between them. A few days after, finding, it would seem, that they had not the requisite skill to navi- gate the vessel across the Atlantic, they scuttled her 7 :i'i 52 JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. 11 J:^|;^ v\ . ill •• ■ 'I ; |i when a short distance off the harbour of Louisburg, in the Island of Cape Breton, and departed with the two other men in the boat, and left the vessel to sink. This soon took plaee, and in a few hours they all arrived at Louisburg. Soon after their arrival, although the two murderers took measures of watch- fulnenHf to prevent the departure of the others, one of them early made his escape, and gave information of the case to some of the inhabitants, who immediately excrtiid themselves to arrest the murderers, as they were striving to escape. They secured one of them, but the other got off, and proceeded up the coast. A messenger was immediately dispatched to Sydney, a distance of about 30 miles, to inform me of the case. So soon as I received the account, which was late in the afternoon, I set off for Louis- burg, with the sheriff and other assistants, and by travelling nearly all the night, reached there very early in the morning. There I found the man who hamplished. I immediately informed the Lieut.- G" or of the case, who made it known in the pi ; .: quarter in the United States, as the vessel and all the parties concerned, belonged to that country. After a time, one of our Ships of war conveyed the prisoners and witnesses to Boston, where the former were tried, conv'^ted, and sentenced to death. One of them hanged himself in his cell, the night previous to the time appointed for execu- tion ; the other suffered according to the sentence, and thus ended this horrible and melancholy tragedy. Sir James Kempt, the Governor, was pleased to convey to me, his thanks for my conduct throughout the proceedings. On viewing the whole of the circumstances of the trugical case, it will manifestly appear, that in tlm^ as in so many other instances of murder, there was the operation of a Divine Providence, for the detec- tion and punishment of that atrocious crime ; and fulfilling the awful Scriptural declaration, — "Be sure your sin will find you out." 54 JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. ! ('■' The next important case, I recollect, in which I found it needful to act in the earliest legal proceed- ings, occuri'ed a few years after the preceding instance. A ship from Great Britain, bound to a port in one of the North American Colonies, with a very valuable cargo of goods, was wrecked on the coast of the Island of Cape Breton, not far from Sydney, where I was residing; and means were being taken to save as much as possible of the cargo. A boat laden with some of the goods was proceeding to Sydney, and in passing up the mouth of the harbour, near to the grounds where the coal mines were situated, a band of the lawless labourers there, went off to the boat, and after threatening the persons in charge of the goods, to throw them over- board, if they resisted, they carried off the goods, and made their own use of them. On the occurrence being mr.ac known in Sydney, a warrant was issued to search for the property, and apprehend the robbers. When the Sheriff with some assistants arrived at the mines ground, with the wan'ant, he found a large band, with various arms, prepared to oppose him, a part of their defences being a small mounted swivel, ready for action. The Sheriff, seeing there was no hope of succeeding, returned to Sydney in the afternoon of the same day, and informed me of the affair. I immediately called on the Commanding ofHoer of the garrison, for a party of 20 riflemen, to assist the civil power in the execution of the warrant. He offered to accompany us with liis men, and we arranged to commence our (•!X[)edition ai)()ut 1 1 o'clock that night, and to reach the mines ground at the first day-light, the distance being about 10 miles. The whole party numbered nearly HO. W(^ de})arted in two commodious boats, and landed within about 4 miles of the mines, and proceeded that distance by land ; and at early light, <^merged from a copse of wood, upon the open space JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. 55 rhich I poceed- jceding id to a with a on the w from 3 were cargo, seeding of the mines 3 there, ng the n over- goods, arrence issued nd the sistants ant, he ared to I small Sheriff, rned to Yj and led on L party in the mpany ce our 3 reach istance nbered boats, ivs, and light, n space near to the mines. On the instant of our appear- ance, two of the robbers who had been stationed as watchmen, near to the skirt of the wood, fled in different directions, one of them giving an alarm by whistle. I directed a rifleman to fire over the head of the nearest one, and on his doing so, the fellow fell on the ground, as though he had been actually shot ; and on our picking him up, and securing him, we found that he was one of the band of plunderers. We immediately proceeded to the village of the miner's cabins, and while the soldiers were ranged along as a guard, we of the civil for'ce, thoroughly searched their dwellings for the stolen property, but found nothing. None dared to offer any opposition, or hindrance. We then returned with our prisoner, who was committed to jail for examination and trial. The other man who fled, escaped to the woods, and being a desperate villain, of the Robin Hood, or Jack Sheppard tribe, he prepared himself a hut in the woods, and being a very powerful man, and armed with a variety of formidable weapons, none dared to approach him. It was said, that when his larder required replenishing, he helped himself from the store at the mines, or elsewhere, or to a lamb, or other provisions from the folds, or fields, of the surrounding farmers. Through fears of violence, or for other reasons, none cared or ventured to take any measures to bring him to justice, for his misdeeds, or in any way to meddle with him. What were the closing scenes of his career I never heard. That visit, however, to the miners, had such good effects, that ever after, the laws could be as readily and peaceably enforced in that locality, as in any other quarter. And here, I may remark once for all, that my long exj)ericncc in legal jiroceedings against public offenders, and in measures to secure and maintain the pcsice of society, has convinced me that either one or other of two niethods, oi* courses of V m ■|i» / iii:i ■sill m JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. ..j^,.i.i. 1 cffei,^ , action, must be pursued, according to the moral habits and character of those to be governedi in order the most effectually to limit the number and aggravated character of criminal offences; and thereby secure to the greatest extent, the social welfare. If the people of the community, or country, are generally of moral or peaceable habits, and open to the motives and influences of religion, or reason, legal preliminaries, and sentences, and punishments for offences, may, in general, be rather of a lenient^ than of a severe description. But, if, on the contrary, they are, in a large proportion, of a lawless and turbulent character^ and regardless of moral considerations, the most safe and proper, as well as just course, in the administration of criminal law, is to assign such strict and fully adequate punishments, as will serve to warn and restrain from the commission of crime. Both Divine justice, and the peace and welfare of Society, demand such a strict and restraining procedure, in the case of every community of the last mentioned description. By steadily pursuing this course, with the assistance of my brethren in the Magistracy, I am persuaded, that many who were disposed to crime and violence, were in some degree intimidated and resWined, and the peace of the communities more generally preserved, than it would have been, by a different administration of the law. As an instance of the advantage of such a strict method of proceeding, I may mention, that one day perceiving near my own dwelling, a number of persons engaged in a fight, I hastened among them, and seizing hold of a stalwart Paddy who was raising his shillcday he instantly let it down, and the whole party immediately scampered away in various directions. v , ^ :"^-": ■:■ ?*»•■! n'lU sit. JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. 57 I must now give the particulars of a criminal case of a most atrocious and dismal description, in which I acted officially, and where the intervention ai^i actings of a special Divine Providence were most signally manifested. In a small seafaring and trading community, a few miles from my residence in Cape Breton, a tavern was kept, by a man and his wife, both of whom were disreputable characters, and their house, as might be supposed, was the place of resort of dissipated . nc* ;orderly persone T^fce woman, who had onct „.' tw been before m^, cnargcd with offences, was far worse than the husband. Indeed, I do not recollect having ever seen a female, who bore so palpably, in her whole visage, the index of a vicious and violent character. The man, from his tavern profits, and other sources, had accumulated £100, which he kept in his own possession, locked up in a small trunk. At the time of the commission of the murder, the particulars of which I am about to relate, two sailors were boarding in the tavern ; and there could be little doubt, but one or both of them had adulterous intercourse with the woman. As in nearly all such cases, there was a desire of these guilty parties, to get rid of the husband, and obtain possession of the money. Accordingly, they planned and concluded, that the two men should murder him, at some early and convenient time. On the exami- nations of the witnesses, taken before me, the following particulars appeared : — The evening previ- ous to the commission of the murder, all the parties were together in the house, and the woman said to one of the men, — " Now see that you do that in the morning, or never show your face to me any more," or some such words, to which he answered, promising compliance. They were to receive from her £40, for committing the deed. The one to whom she so spoke, slept with the husband the same night, and very early in the morning, these two went out to a 58 JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. Wp pasture field, partly wooded, to look after some cattle. Very shortly after their departure, the other man followed to the same field, with an axe, as if for the purpose of using it to repair the fence of the field. He joined the others near the wooded and ^ remote part of the field ; and there, as afterwards * appeared, the two villains fell upon the husband, and he was felled, or rather hewed to the ground, and his head split open with the axe, and one of his arms, and other parts of him, horribly mutilated. They then dragged the dead body into a close and swampy thicket, in the field, and very shortly after dug a shallow hole, and deposited the body in it, placing some mossy substances, as a covering, to give the place a natural appearance, as before ; and also plucked some branches of the small trees around, and stuck them in that mossy covering, to show like native early undergrowth. These devices for pre- venting the discovery of their atrocious deed, were by a special Providence, like plans and practices in other cases, for concealing the like crime, made to serve as the chief means by which their guilt was discovered. On returning to the house, directly after the murder, one of them brought in a str>^w hat, of the deceased, and threw it down as though he had found it. Here, artfulness was remarkably wanting, as has so often been the case in similar instances, for this was one of the circumstances which created suspicions of their guilt, in the woman's daughters, who were inmates of the house. On the return of the murderers, and no doubt after their having privately signified to the woman that they had fulfilled the murderous plot, she also committed herself by saying in the hearing of one or more of the daughters, — *' Now we can sit down and have our breakfast in peace." The guilty parties reported abroad, that the husband had absconded, by reason of debt, or other cause, but suspicions were aroused |! JUPIOUL EXPE^IENCJS. 59 ' some B other :e, as if of the ed and rwards isband, ad, and of his tilated. )se and [y after f in it, ing, to i ; and Tound, 3W like )r pre- I, were bices in lade to lilt was lirectly I stt\^w though irkably similar 3tances Oman's On the r their it they mitted lore of d have ported reason roused against them. A few days after the man had disappeared, one of the daughters who had a quarrel with her mother, went to a magistrate in the neighborhood, and gave him information of the aboye, and other suspicious circumstances, which he inserted in her deposition, and sent it to me, request- ing XQY opinion and instructions L '; to act in the matter. I lost no time in directing him to issue a warrant for the apprehension of'the three parties, and advised him as to the best precautions and means for accomplishing their arrest. He acted with the utmost promptness and skilful management, and had all of mem arrested the same evening, and sent to me in safe custody. About midnight the party appeared at my dwelling, and I committed the prisoners to the jail. So soon as these occurrences became publicly known, the people in that neighbor- hood went out in parties, to search for the body of the man. On the day following the committal of the parties, all the persons who could serve as witnesses were brought before me, on the examination of the case. While this was going on, the search for the body was diligently prosecuted. In the latter part of tile second day of the search, two of the persons engaged in it, were looking through the thicket in the pasture field mentioned, and in passing over the spot where the body was deposited, one of them pulled up a small stalk from the mossy surface, without having any particular design or intention, but on looking at it, perceived it had no root^ but was merely a sprig plucked from a tree. Several others, placed in like manner, were found around the spot, and an old log of wood was observed to have been removed. On their clearing away the moss, and a slight covering of earth, they found the body, in the frightful condition already described. A messenger was immediately despatched to inform me of the discovery. At the time of his arrival, the 8 60 JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. / three prisoners were in the dock before me, and I was taking the examination of one of the woman's daughters. All of the prisoners had, hitherto, with seeming indifference, boldly asserted their perfect innocence ; the woman more especially and repeat> edly, in the most unfaltering manner, doubtless thinking, that as her hands were not actually employed in the bloody deed, whatever might come out, her life would be safe. The moment the finding of the body was announced by the messenger, the prisoners became visibly agitated, each one asserting innocence, and criminating the others. On closing the examinations, and taking the vol intary statements of the prisoners, denying any guilt, they were fully committed for liial. On that trial, they were all convicted and sentenced to death. They subsequently confessed their guilt, and at the time appointed, there was exhibited in the vicinity of the small county- town, the awful scene of the execution of the three cri- minals at the same moment, and on the same gallows. On any serious, or even slight view of several of the particulars of this deeply tragical case, especially of the minute circumstances which led to the dis- covery of the body, surely none can fail to perceive the hand of a wise and retributive Providence . Here , as in so many other instances, these revealed and awful truths were signally fulfilled : — ** God bringeth to light the hidden things of darkness;*^ " The wicked shall fall by his own T^ckedness ;" *« The heavens shall reveal his iniquity, and the earth shall rise up against him." ^ / JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. 61 3, and I soman's to, with perfect repeats oubtless actually it come i finding g6r, the sserting closing tements ire fully v^ere all quentty d, there county- iree di- sallows, reral of pecially :he dis- lerceive Here, ed and ringeth "The «« The th shall The next instance, or rather instances, for special description, were of a complicated nature. In these, I had the satisfaction of being instrumental in pre- venting impending scenes and acts of the most tragical character. For causes not needM to be Inentioned, a quarrel arose between the Lieuten- ant and the Siu'geon of the small detachment of soldiers stationed in the town, in Cape Breton, where I was residing ; and it was arranged that a duel should take place between them. It was in the winter of the year 1834. Late in the evening pre- ceding the morning appointed for the meeting, I re- ceived an anonymous note, informing me of the particulars of the affair. Immediately I communi- cated with the Sheriff, and we concluded to go out very early in the morning with several constables and intercept the parties, and prevent the duel. Accordingly we all sallied forth in due time, and a most bitterly frosty morning it was, in the depth of winter. We dispersed ourselves in different direc- tions, around the barrack ground, so as to accomplish our purpose. As I was proceeding thither, I per- ceived the Surgeon's second, hastening in the same direction, along another street, and thinking it most probable, that the meeting would take place at a small and uninhabited point of land not far from the barracks, I hurried towards the place. The Sheriff and constables proceeded towards the barracks in other directions. The parties, consisting of the two principals and the Surgeon's second, — ^the Lieutenant not having one, — ^perceiving that they were watched, rushed down the steep bank, in front of the barrack enclosure, and hastened on foot, over the ice, for the opposite side of the river, distant nearly a mile. This occurred in the view of the sheriff and con- stables, but not in mine, an intervening hill, and some buildings, preventing it. The sheriff sent a messenger to infoim me of the circumstance, and the 62 Jtn>fOtAli SXFB^^E^eS. constables, and, — if I recollect rightly, — ^the sheriff also, inunediately followed the parties on foot. On receiving the message, I hastened to the street in front of the river, -vmere several spectators were as- sembled, and providentially finding a friend's horse in readiness, I instantly sprung into the saddle, and at the utmost speed, made for the place whither they had gone, the snow on the ice being nearly a foot deep. In the meantime, the duellist party had cho- sen the spot for their encounter, a short distance from where they had crossed, and just as I approached the place, they had taken their stations but a short distance apart, and were in the very act of raising their pistols, when I shook my whip at them, and com- manded them to desist, and in the same moment rode my horse directly between them. They immediately concealed their weapons, and I had them taken into custody, by the peace officers present, who had pre- viously been looking on, without any forcible inter- ference. And here, I may say, that I think it nearly certain, if my arrival had been one minute later, the Surgeon would have fallen, for I perceived as I ap- proached, that he was greatly agitated, most probar bly with anger ; but the Lieutenant was raising his pistol in the most cool and deliberate manner. And now, another violent scene occurred, which gave rise to the second instance of my favorable interference, and prevention of a second meeting of the same kind, as will presently be related. On my taking the Lieutenant in charge, the Doctor's second, a Mr. M , instantly drew from under his coat, a horse- whip and began striking the Lieutenant with it across his shoulders, on which the latter struck at him with his fists. As promptly as possible, I parted them, and the three offenders, without any further forcible interruption or difficulty, were conveyed to my office ; the Lieutenant, however, vehemently and frequently declaring that he would shoot the man who had i(' JUDICIAL EXPEBIENCB. 63 dheriff it. On sreet in rere as- lorsein , and at Br they ' a foot ad oho- ce&om bed the iistance ftheur com- int rode sdiately en into lad pre- B inter- t nearly Iter, the IS I ap- proba- ing bis . And ive rise erence, B same taking , a Mr. horse- across mwith them, brcible office ; luently 10 had struck him, even at the altar, or in the bosom of his fiEunily. I bound them all in high penalties, with sureties to keep the peace, and be of good behaviour for 12 months. The commanding officer of the gar- rison, on being informed of his Lieutenant having been struck with the whip, requested me, by an official letter, to convey to him the particulars con- cerning it, which I did in a written answer, assuring him that the Lieutenant had promptly and forcibly resisted, and repelled the indignity to the utmost of his power under the circumstances. Some time after he was charged before a Court Martis^ concerning it, and I have reason to believe that my official letter just mentioned, explaining all the particulars of the afiair, prevented his being dismissed from the . rmy. But the story, as yet, is but half told. In the ensuing spring I removed with my family to tht Provincial capital, and the detachment of < c^ops, with the two hostile officers, were also rcmcved there. In the month of February, in the ensuing year 1835, 1 set out by land for Cape Breton, to hold the Courts there, and very shortly before my depar- ture, I heard that the Lieutenant who had been struck, and a brother officer, were missing from the garrison, having secretly departed, and it was re- ported that it was not known whither they had gone. As it was close upon the expiration of the year, for which the Lieutenant had been b^und to keep the peace, I concluded that he had goii ? ibr Sydney, to have a duel with the man who had so unfairly and treacherously struck him. On my journey, I en- quired if they had passed alonf>; the road, but heard nothing concerning them, until I came within about 40 miles of Sydney. At that place I halted, Satur- day evening, at the house of a friend, to remain over the Sabbath, and proceed to Sydney on the Monday, to be ready for opening the Court on Tuesday. Late in the afternoon of Sunday the father of my friend 61 JUDIOIAL EXPEBIENOE. Mil came in to see us, and in the course of conversation mentioned, that he had shortly before, seen two per- sons who were strangers in that quarter, passing in a sleigh towards Sydney. I inunediately concluded that they were the Lieutenant and his second, for the intended duel, and requested my friend to procure me a trusty person as a messenger, which he speedily did. I gave the man a letter to the Sheriff, informing him of the affair, and directing him to take immediate measures to prevent any hos- tile meeting, by having the party taken into custody. I charged the messenger to proceed rapidly, and to pass the sleigh, without speaking to the parties, and if his horse failed to get another, and to reach Syd- ney as long before the sleigh as possible. He faith- fully performed the duty, soon passing the sleigh, and riding through the night, delivered the letter early in the morning. The Sheriff lost no time in fulfilling the direction, and by, indeed, some stretch of authority, on the ground of the statements in my letter, immediately issued a process against Mr. M , the other intended combatant, — the person who had struck the Lieutenant, — and had him safely imprisoned. When the officers arrived, and found they were disappointed of their purpose, they speed- ily set off on their return to Halifax, over a second 300 miles. They had gone more than two-thirds of the first journey by water, and had a long passage, in consequence of which I got ahead of them. As they left Halifax about a week or more l>efore I set out, had they proceeded the whole distance by land, they would have reached Sydney long before me, and, in all probability, the intended revengeful en- counter would have taken place ; and as they were both men of determined spirits, and fired with resentment, they would doubtless have persevered until one or other had fallen. In that delay on their journey, there was a special and merciful Providence JUDICIAL EXPERIENCE. 65 ssage, As I set laud, I me, il en- were with vored their deuce towards them, as there had been on the previous occasion described, when I was made the happy instrument, of preventing the deadly effects of revengeful passions. , j ■ . l <,(;.,, j •, V • f- f >fi^' : I' . I ,.. .■'*■ ■ . The next important case for relation, is one of malicious and deliberate murder. It occurred in the same town where the preceding instances took place, and in the night, in the year 1837, when the town was illuminated because of the coronation of our present Sovereign, Queen Victoria. A suit at law, concerning a small debt, had shortly before been decided between a labouring man in the town, and another in a distant settlement, and the judgment was against the former. The other man happened to be in the town, on the night of the illumination, and the former seeing him on the street, wbich was crowded with persons, viewing the brilliant spectacle, he hastily provided himself with a heavy bludgeon, and prompted by his revengeful spirit, watched for a favorable opportunity, and sprung upon his victim, and with one blow upon his head, with the weapon, felled him to the ground, threw away the stick, rushed down the street, and soon disappeared below the bank at the river side, and made his escape. Some of the people on the street, who witnessed the occurrence, immediately ran to lift up the man, and others secured the stick, and this gave time to the murderer to get away. I was in another street at the time, and was immediately informed of the occurrence, and hastened to the house where the man had been carried. Two surgeons were sent for, who examined his head, in my presence, and both declared that there was not any fracture of the skull. se itn>lCtAL &XF£BI£NGE. '.jf Tlie man wiib Able to stand while this took plaoe, but immediately retired to bed, and in about 36 hours after, expired t the skull having indeed been fractured, as afterwards discovered, and which, as declared by the Coroners inquest, was the cause of his death. Immediately on the flight of the murderer, my brethren of the magistracy, on Ihe spot, assisted me in placing persons on all the different roads, leading from the town, to intercept and arrest him ; but with the assistance of some of his relatives, he succeeded in getting beyond the watchmen. The following day it was ascertained, that he had fled to the coal mines, about 10 miles off, where there were a number of his lawless countrymen. On the Sheriff going there, with a warrant for his arrest, he failed to get hold of him. Being determined to do my utmost for his apprehension, I applied to the Commanding officer of the garrison, and obtained a sufficient party of soldiers, and late in the evening of the same day, went with them, and the Sheriff and other assistants, and through the night searched around the mines' ground, and in the vicinity, to discover and secure him. In the course of our search we were told of a disreputul)lc house where spirituous liquors were clandestinely sold ; and that there was a cellar under it, having a trap door from the floor, and that it was profmhle ho was conceded there. I proceeded with the party to the house immediately, and got there about midnight. It was lighted, and having flrst stationed a soldier at a window in the rear of the house, I looked through an opening in the door, and saw three or four noisy fellows, sitting at a table playing curds, and one lying drunk on the floor. I then stationed the other soldiers, with fixed bayonets, pointed towards the door, and on requesting entrance were, after some hesitation admitted. The party Mconied very mvage^ and disposed for resistance, but by a few threats, they were soon quieted ; and after JCDlCJUIi ££P«Bl£:^GS. 67 De,biit hours itured, red by death. >r, my ted me eadmg iitwim ceeded ngday mines, r of his there, hold of for his ' officer arty of ae day, Lstants, mines* secure ►Id of a } were • under ; it was id with t there ig first of the jr, and 1 table )or. I yronets, itranco I party ce, but d after removing the drunken man out of the way, we searched the cellar and the house, but the murderer was not there. In the afternoon of the ensuing day, I set out in a boat, with the party, as though on our return to the town, but after nightfall, we landed some distance up an arm of the river, and there secured our boat ; and returned secretly, by land, to the place we had left. We put up there, at the house of a person who was favourable to our pur- pose ; and — ^putting up blankets at the windows of our room, to prevent being seen, and to make it appear as if unoccupied, — ^we remained there, awake, during the remainder of the night. At morning light, we sallied forth in two parties, and taking different directions, I with one of them, hastily pro- ceeded up one road, which after a short distance led through the woods to the mines ground, while the other party tjok the only other road leading there. I had not proceeded far, when I met a man who, on enquiry, informed us, that on his way only a few minutes before, he had met Ormond, the murderer. We went on as rapidly as possible, but he must have taken to the woods and concealed himself, directly after meeting the man, for on pursuing our search quite to the mines, and around there, we faiM to dis- cover him. In the evening we returned to the town, having been constantly engaged about the search, two nights and days. Most probably he very soon got away in some vessel, for no long time after our search, I heard of his being arrested at a town in New Brunswick, on the information of a person who knew of the murder, and who saw him there ; but while being conveyed to prison, either through the carelessness, or connivance, of those who had him in custody, he again made his escape. A length of time after, I heard of his being the driver of a public carriage hi Quebec, in Lower Canada, and imme- diately gave information of this, to our Provincial 9 68 JUDICIAL BXPERIEKCB. Goyemment, who communicated it to the Govern- ment there; and some time after, I received an official letter, stating that lie had left Quebec, and proceeded up the country, and probably had gone into some part of the United States. I never heard any thing further concerning him. He thus escaped the jtidgment of man^ but an infinitely greater and eternal one awaits him. "T,>1 i.'-H V, The next instance in my judicial experience, which seems worthy of narration, is, in many of its parti- culars, of a singularly remarkable description. I do not perfectly recollect the year in which it occurred, but I think it was in or about 1836. The precise time, however, is of no importance. To commence at the origin of the whole affair, and to show how I became judicially concerned in it, some introductory facts must be given. They are these : — ^A woman in one of the county towns, in the Island of Cape Breton, in her dying hours, solemnly required her husband, to have her body laid beside the graves of her parents, in a place distant about 40 miles. He complied with the request, and rather a large party set out with the coffin containing the body. Several of them belonged to Scottish Highland clans, bearing different names. I need scarcely mention, that, as a matter of course, they took strong liquor more or less frequently, for the purpose, as they doubtless thought, or would say, for absolutely nee^ul refresh- ment, and to maintain their bodily strength. It would seem, that either from some immediate provo- cation, or old clan or family strife, or bad feeling, a quarrel, while on the way, arose between these two parties, which being intensified or rendered more JUDICIAL EXFEBIENCE. 69 rovem- red an ic, and 1 gone * heard iscaped er and m , which parti- Ido surred, • precise imence how I uctory v^oman ' Cape )d her ves of He party everal taring lat, as ore or btless fresh- It )rovo- ing, a B two more violent by the action of the strong liquor on their own naturally ardent passions, from words they pro- ceeded to blows ; and for a part of a day kept up a kind of running battle along the road; during which they battered and bruised each other most se- verely. At the ensuing term of the court, in that county, a number of what may be called cross, or opposite indictments, were found against several of the combatants, belonging to each party, and a con- siderable portion of the term was taken up, in trying those cases. Several of the offenders were convicted, and I will confess, that viewing the violent and dis- graceful nature of their conduct, in passing the sen- tences, I dealt out to them, respectively, the full measure of the pains snd penalties which the law warranted, and their offences, imder all the aggra- vated circumstances, so fully deserved. On the close of the term, I commenced my journey, on horseback, for home, distant nearly 120 miles. It was late in the autumn ; and also late in the day, when I set out, and I was alone. The weather was moderate, but rather threatening an unfavorable change. In accordance with the plan of my journey, I pu posed to reach in the early part of the night, a house about 15 miles down the coast, where I had frequently stopped. At that time, there were no houses on that part of the road, for the comfortable accommo- dation of travellers, which deserved the name of inns. Very shortly after I commenced my journey, snow began to fall, and kept rapidly increasing ; and by the time I had got 9 or 10 miles, it was nearly up to the knees of the horse. I think I never knew so much fall in a like time. This part of the road was through a wood, and therefore the snow did not incommode me much, as it was rfry, and no drift. But when I came out on the open country, the wind had commenced blowing very strong, and the snow was still coming down as thickly as before, and 76 JUDICIAL EXPERISNOE. / 'i drifted violently , and partly in my face, from time to time, according to the variations of the road. Night had now fiiUy set in, and fearing that from the depth of snow, — ^the violence of the storm, — ^bad bridges, and other dangerous circumstances, I would not be able to reach the intended place of rest, about two miles on, I rode up to a comfortable looking house, to obtain accommodation for the night, but just as I got to the door, the thought arose, that the family belonged by name, or even more intimately, to one of the fighting parties at the funeral ; and on whom I had, as already mentioned, so heavily and justly laid my judicial hand. I paused a few moments, without seeking admission, and knowing from several occurrences, that there were some very violent cha- racters in that neighbourhood, and thinking that if I stopped there, some evil might befal me or my horse, I concluded to go on for the house I had intended to reach. Accordingly, I drew up the reins for the purpose, and as I was turning the head of my long- tried and faithful steed, to my surprise he did what I never knew him do before, he bit at one of my feet in the stirrup, thereby seeming to say, — " are you, indeed, so cruel, both to yourself and me, as to think of proceeding any further in this violent storm." I disregarded, however, his rude sugges- tion, and went on, struggling through all the difficul- ties, and safely reached the desired habitation. There, before a glowing wood-fire, I soon obtained a repast, oi plain but comforting fare ; and with the luxurij, in that neighbourhood, of ?l feather bed, pre- pared on the floor, in front of the fire, passed, what, under all the circumstances, may be called a com- foitable night. Early the next morning, I set forward, through snow nearly a foot deep, on an average, and in many places deeply drifted. Nothing further of importance occurred during the rest of the journey, and on the second or third day after, I safely JUDICIAL EXPEBIENCE. 71 \ [ime to Night ) depth ridges, not be >ut two house, ist as I family to one I whom justly iments, several at cha- lat if I ' horse, ided to for the y long- whatl of my — " are me, as v^iolent mgges- ifficul- tation. lined a h the pre- what, com- I set on an jthing of the safely reached my home. This journey, however, I may say, with its trials and difficulties, was not the most disagreeable or daiigerous, through which I passed, while performing my judicial duties in the Island of Cape Breton. A score of times, or more, during the 18 years of performing my circuits there, when the weather was stormy, and not being able to reach the proposed end of my journey, or get to a com- fortable private house, — ^there were no suitable inns, — ^I have been obliged to find a refuge in some very humble dwelling, and pass the night on the fioor, not even on the bed oi feathers, but on plain straw brought from the bam. But at such times, with a good wood fire kept up, I have passed the night without any real discomfort. But without that favorable addition, or when the fire declined y and I had to arise, and replenish and revive it, the bodily feeling, as may be supposed, was considerably other- wise. During many of the earlier years of those judicial circuits, large portions of my journies were performed in Indian canoes, in which I have some- times passed a great part or the whole of the night, occasionally j9ac?(Z?zw^ to lessen chilliness, and to afford the poor tired Squaw a partial relief. On one of such journies, for reasons of apparent convenience, I took a shorter route, for the most distant county town, and one I never passed before, and never at- tempted again. The whole distance was about 100 miles, and nearly two-thirds of it were performed with the Indians in the harh caiios, and during the whole of the journey, qf three days and nights, I never parted with an atom of my apparel, except hat and boots, and getting what repose I could ob- tain, at night, on the floor, under circumstances similar to those described. In the latter years of those journies, all particulars as to accommodation were much improved, but still, in many respects, occasionally, rather far from what is generally termed It-. oat ten 1 which e, were intoxi- n a fiir- hrough EeUf and mider very . distressing circumstances, occurred within a few miles of my own dwelling, and within about four months. In the first case, the person killed, was a youth of about 20 years, who was stabbed in the bowels, by a companion of a lesser age. They had previously been on the most inti- mate and friendly terms. They belonged to the same vessel, and through the fatal indulgence, by both, in the maddening drink, the quarrel arose, which terminated so awniUy. In the rfther case, the individual killed was rather an old man, with a wife and eight children ; and the persona by whom he was so barbarously beaten, as shortly resulted in his death, were rather young men. They had no pre- vious malice against the man they murdered, proba- blv had never seen him before, and received no provocation^ to excite them to their brutal conduct. It was the infuriating drink alone, which prepared for, and induced the horrid deed. These two were the only murders committed in that section of the Province, or, as I believe, in any part of it, during that year. In one special term of a couii; which I held, two young men, and a lad of about 16 years, were tried and convicted of two separate robberies. The two young men I sentenced to two years imprisonment in the Provincial Bridewell, and the lad to one year in the county jail. They were the only cases tried during the term, and it was evident from all the cir- cumstances disclosed, that both of the offences were committed in order to obtain the means of gratifying the appetite for strong drink. Of many hundreds of cases of breaches of the peace which came imder my investigation and deci- sion, during the whole period of my performance of judicial duties, at least seven-eighths, I may confi- dently say, were traceable, chiefly to the use of intoxicating liquors. 10 76 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. f5t':-;V';^- 1.,,}- CHAPTER IV. TRAVELS AND EFFORTS IN THE TEMPERANCE .fr : ♦ REFORMATION. As well as I can remember, my first serious and connected thoughts regarding the great Temperance Reform, arose very shortly after its commencement, either in 1831 or the year following. I had been on a visit to the United States, and while waiting in the city of Boston for a passage home ; and occasionally looking over some of the book stands on the streets, I met with Dr. Beecher's celebrated sermons on intemperance. I bought them, and read them with deep interest, having from my youth, and more especially in later years, had much cause to know the truth of his statements, and of his eloquent and powerful arguments and appeals, concerning the strong drink traffic, and its innumerable afflicting and deadly effects. On nay first entering upon the office of a magistrate, in the year 1823, feeling con- scientiously bound, — by the oath I had taken, — ^to carry into effect all the laws against evil doers, as far as empowered to do so ; and seeing upon our Provincial Statute book, the law against all open drunkenness, and daily seeing drunkards about the town where I resided, as well as occasionally in other places, within my jurisdiction, I commenced the performance of my official duty, and convicted and fined all whom I saw in a state of drunkenness ; at times convicting 4 or 5 in a day, so prevalent, formerly, was open drunkenness. In this perfor- mance of public duty, I persevered for 7 or 8 years, during which time, I convicted and fined several TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 77 hundreds, in all, and on one or two occasions, ordered old and incorrigible offenders to the stocks. Here, some may be ready to ask, did not all this strictness of proceeding prevent the exhibition of drunkenness in public? I answer, no I probably, not in the least degree. The only benefit I can, to • a certainty i say was effected, wsis, that of increasing the funds for the support of the poor ; as the fines for drunkenness, are, by law, appropriated for that purpose. After reading Dr. Beecher's sermons, and hearing of the formation of Temperance Societies, I at once concluded to try that method of limiting the cases of drunkenness, and the other ruinous effects of the strong drink system, within my immediate jurisdic- tion. Accordingly, on my return home, in concert with some religious and benevolent friends, a Tem- perance Society was formed, on the first and only pledge, then taken, that of abstinence fi'om ardent spirits. Several years previous to this, and before a Temperance Society, from the present entire abstinence movement had been anywhere formed, — I think in the year 1824, — ^I gave up altogether the use of ardent spirits, of every kind, and have never •since on any occasion partaken of them, in the smallest measure, nor have they since entered my dwelling, as a beverage. Before any long time had elapsed, some good effects were found to result from the efforts of the society mentioned, in the perma- nent or partial reclamation of a few of the intemper- ate ; and some diminution of the drinking customs, within the limited sphere of the Society's operations. Immediately after the close of my judicial duties, I removed with my family from the Island" of Cape Breton ; and we took up our residence in one of the •most beautiful villages of Nova Scotia. Having, through all the previous period of manhood, been actively employed in public duties, I soon found 78 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. m myself quite at a loss, for what I considered tmjul occupations^ to fill up my time ; and being then only a little over middle life, and in bodily and mental vigour. When about three months had passed in this state of feeling, a Mr. K , whom I had known for several years, came along on a temperance mission, and spent a short time at my house. It was about the latter end of August, and the weather was very fine, and the roads in excellent order for travel- ling in a carriage. He told me of his plans for lecturing on the temperance subject, and for getting forward on his journies. This last object was to be accomplished, chiefly by the friends of the cause conveying him forward, from place to place. The thought readily occurred to me, that it would be an advantage to him, as well as to the benevolent mission, to carry him on in my carriage for some days of his journeyings. As my wife had never been in that section of the Province, whither he was going, and which is one of the most fruitful and beautiful parts of it, I proposed the excursion to her, and we soon concluded to fulfil the design. Our carriage was douhle-seafedy and our horse stout, strong, and trusty. As Mr. K was quite of the heavy bodily organization, probably about 220 lbs. averdupoise, it was arranged that he should have the hinder y and most honorable seat, entirely to him- self; and that my wife and I would occupy the forward one, which would bring the carriage on an equilibrium^ or somewhere about a suitable balance. We connnenced, and continued our journey through- out, in conformity with this safe and prudent arrangement. The weather was rather uncommonly sultry, and consequently, as will readily be supposed, quite meltimi and oppref^dve to our corpulent and ponderous friend. In delivering his several orations, alter suitably introducing his benevolent subject, and making some brief an(J appropriate remarks concern- TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 79 ing it, during about 9 or 10 minutes, he concluded in some such terms as these : — ** Here is my friend Judge Marshall, who, in his official capacity, has known very much of the crimes and other evils of the use of intoxicating drinks, and he will tell you all about them." I was thus put forward to declare my judicial experience, and otiier information on the subject, and continued to do so, at the several meetings, on the journey of nearly a fortnight, during which we carried our friend forward on his excellent mission. I think I may fairly say, that on the whole, I did the larger portion of the talking part of the work. On our return home, after parting with our friend, who proceeded on his mission, I was led into a train of reflections on the important and excellent cha- racter of the temperance movement, and at once per- ceived, that it afforded a wide and most benevolent sphere, for that useful employment of my time and energies, which, as already mentioned, I had been earnestly desiring. I did not suffer the impression and conviction to depart, but during the autumn of that year, and the ensuing winter, addressed a num- ber of temperance meetings, in and around the place of my residence. At this time, I may say, com- menced my temperance advocacy career, in which excellent work of reform, during nearly 22 succeed- ing years, I was more or less actively engaged in various countries, as will presently be shown. And here, I may further say, that from the circum- stances just stated, regarding my introdu(5tion into the extended public advocacy of the cause, and from other particulars, which need not be mentioned, the impression first made on my mind, very soon ad- vanced to fi perfect conviction ,t — which has never been weakened, — that I was as specialh/ called, by a wise ai'd benevolent providence to labour as I have done, in this excellent cause, as ever a minister of religion 80 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. was divinely called to act in his far more exalted and important mission. My long legal experience in public speaking, and the habit which it generally fonuB, of close and connected reasoning, and also my independence as to pecuniary circumstances, — ^which throughout mv advocacy enabled me to render it gratuitouHly, m all particulars, — gave me special qualilicatious, — especially the latter, — ^for obtaining for that advocacy, in general, rather a large measure of public acceptance and success. Haying become perfectly convinced, as to the christian and moral duty of extending my public efforts in the excellent work, I yielded to that ardency which has always been a part of my character, — at times injuriously so, — to engage actively^ in any purpose decidely fonned; and early in the spring succeeding the journey just menti{med, in the year 1842, commenced alone^ my iirst long and arduous journey, for the advoca(;y of the cause. It was about the last of March ; and as the roads were then in such a state, that it was both difficult and uncomfortable to travel in a carriage, I pertbrmed the whole journey on horseback. Some time previous to setting out, I wrote on to the Secretaries of Societies, throughout the routes to have meetings appointed, at which I would lecture. Accordingly, I went on from place to place, over bad roads, and often in stormy, and alwavM uncomfortable wcjither, and fultilled all the appointments. On my return home, on summing up th(} main parti(!ulars relating to the journey, I found that during the 42 days of its continuance, I had travcHed about ♦>20 miles, through parts of 9 coun- ti(^H, had addressed 38 public meetings, and had been iiiHtruniental in forming some new societies, revivintj ohl ones, and in adding to the cause about H85 new memluTs. My health continued good throughout the journey. This success afforded much encouragement, and an iu(;reased stimulus to further efforts of the TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 81 ) exalted tperience generally i also my 1, — ^whicii render it e special obtaining ! measure ^ become lid moral excellent 8 always ijurioiisly decidel}^ ding the mmenced % for the e last of 1 a state, to tmvel irney on [g out, I x)ughout it which )m place my, and I all the ming up I found e, I had 9 coun- lad been revivinij )85 new lout the ement, 3 of the like description. In order to carry them out, in the most a iple and thorough manner, I divided the whoh Provmce into districts, or rather circuital as is the case with the courts ; and accordingly, I planned out my eastern, ivestern, and shore circuits, so as to comprehend all the county-towns, and all the other principal places in each circuit, for my visits and lectures, every year. I had a small but strong four- wheeled carriage built, according to my own plan, with leather coverings in front, and behind, so as effectually to protect myself and baggage ; and thus, with the addition of oil-skin covering for head and body, I could travel through any ordinary rain- storm, without any serious discomfort, and be always able to fulfil my appointments. Thus fully fitted and harnessed for a continuance in the benevolent and laborious work, I steadily pursued it, for up- wards of 4 years, in all, visiting and lecturing throughout the Province, each year, in the manner, and to the extent already mentioned. At the meet- ings I attended in each succeeding year, several hundreds, in all, were brought under the abstinence pledge, and added to the Societies ; until at the termination of the period mentioned, they amounted to thousands. During uij same coi-L'-e of years, I twice visited and lectured in like ina luer, in several parts of the Province of New Bru.iswick, and the Island of Prince Edward ; and at the nioetings I attended in those colonies, some v'/uverts were g; lined to tlie same cause. In performing those circuit nnd lecturing visits, I think I must have travelled at least 1800 miles, in each year. Before commencing the relation of my jcnirnies and efforts in the same cause, in the United King- dom and other lands, I think it .veil to menuon, a few of the s[)ecial instances of the good effects which folloM'cd from the meetings in which I lectured, in those years, in Nova Scotia. On my lirst long and 82 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. successful journey — ^if I remember rightly — ^in the spring of 1842, 1 had arranged to deliver a lecture at the head of a river, in one of the western coun- ties ; and on reaching there at the time appointed, and consulting with the school-master, he informed me, that shortly before, an inhabitant of the place, had brought a barrel of Yankee rum into his house, and continued drinking of it to such excess, that he killed himself; and that the people around, were so impressed with the fatal event, that it was a good time to hold a temperance meeting. The school house in which it was held, was indeed crowded to the utmost, and at the close of the lecture, 47 per- sons took the pledge of abstinence, for the purpose of forming a Society. When lecturing there, the next year, I found that the Society had been formed, and then numbered 196 ; and I was informed, that during that year, only about 10 barrels of that vile li(j[uor, just mentioned, as well as could be ascer- tained, had come into the place, instead of about 100 barrels, which, previously, had each year been imported. On that second journey, I was proceeding to a meeting to be held near the same place, in com- pany with a man whom I had not before known ; and as we were walking leisurely along, I said to him, chiefly for conversation to iill up the time, '* To what chm'ch do you ])elong?" and he answered, *' To the Baptist church, but I should never have belonged to any church, but for you." " How can that be?" I replied, '* I never saw you before now." He then said, "You may remember giving a tem- perance lecture, Mt a school-house at the head of this river, about 18 months ago ; I had been a drinking man before, but took tlie ])ledge on that occasion, and soon after, the Lord converted my soul." These words were so accurately impressed on my mind, at the time, that I can never fail to remember them. —in the I lecture rn coun- pointed, iiformed le place, is house, , that he were so a good e school )wded to , 47 per- purpose lere, the formed, led, that that vile 36 ascer- )f about ear been receding , in corn- known ; said to le time, iswered, er have low can e now." ^ a tem- of this rinking casion. These ind, at hem. TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. U f On this same joiuney, as well as I can remember, and some miles further on, but in the same township, I halted at the divergence of two roads ; and being at a loss which to take, I enquired of a woman standing at a door, and immediately after answering and directing me, she began speaking about the temperance cause, probably knowing that I was the person who had lectured at the school-house, as previously mentioned; and in the course of her remarks, lifting up her hands, she said, " There is no telling the good the temperance cause has done in this place, we, ' — meaning her husband and herself, " formerly sold it, and often I have gone to that red store," — ^pointing to it, — " to draw oft* the rum for the boys, who would not work at the fish, unless they got it ; and I have felt as if I could dash it on the ground, knowing the evil it was doing ; now, we have given up the sale of it," and I think she added, "there is none sold now by any person in this spttlement," or words to that eff*ect. The woman seemed quite relieved in her mind, and rejoicing that she had got rid of the destructive traffic. An instance of morale and also religious good, to a whole family, from the abandonment of the traffic, may also be here related. A tavern had been kept for many years, in a small village, on one of the mais roads of the Province ; and the keeper of it, through long continued excessive drinking, had become greatly disordered and enfeebled in body. He was also embarrassed with debt, and his house and premises had fallen greatly to decay. While such were his circumstances, 1 made a visit to the village, and delivered a lecture, in which providenti- ally — as I believe — I was led to speak very fully of many of the crimes and other evils of tLe traffic ; and probably with more point and force than usual. The wife of the ttikern-keeper was i)resent, and shortly after the close of my lecture, she told the 11 84 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. female who informed me of it, that while I was treating of those evils, she felt as if she would sink to the floor J or some such expressions. The woman must, indeed, have been very much impressed on the subject, for the very next evening, she followed my route, and attended at another lecture I then deliver- ed, at a place several miles from her home. Doubt- less, she used her influence with her husband, to abandon the traffic, and keep the inn on the labsti- nence principle, and this was speedily done. Having been informed of these circumstances, on my next lecturing visit to that village, I spent part of a day and a night at their inn ; and when the woman came in to prepare the table for refreshment, she said, " You bore very hard upon me, Sir, when you were here before, but it was all true." I ascertained that the man had abandoned his drinking habit, and was looking after his affairs, and endeavouring to get rid of his embarrassments. But far the best of all, divine worship had been established in the dwelling, as I found with the most gladdened feelings, by hearing in the morning, the sounds of praise and prayer in the family circle. In the same village, and throughout several com- munities around it, the Temperance Reform, in the course of a few years, had so extensively advanced ; and the inhabitants, in consequence, had so improved in their circumstances, and in religious liberality also, tliat one of the ministers of religion in that quarter, pointing to a large and commodious place of wor- ship, just before erected, said to mo, "We may thank the t \pe/^ince cause for that building." In the autumn of 184^, I went with my family to Great Britjun, to procure for one of them, the best means of instruction in the medical profession ; and with the lixed intention of employing my gratuitous efforts there, in the same work of the temperance reform We landed in London, the great metropolis TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 85 I was Id sink woman on the ired my leliver- Doubt- and, to e labsti- Having ay next f a day m came le said, )u were led that ind was ' to get t of all, ivelling, igs, by lise and al com- , in the '^anced ; proved ty also, uarter, f wor- may e nily to le best and Ltiiitous ierance ropolis of that Jirst of nations. I soon became acquainted with several of the principal official characters, con- ducting the cause in the city, and I think it was about the third evening after my arrival, that, by invitation, I appeared on a platform, as a speaker, at a meeting, composed chiefly of gas stokers^ coal whipperSf and coal heavers, and others, following the most laborious employments. The meeting had been called for the special purpose, of refuting an article contained in one of the London papers, in which it was contended, that those classes of persons, could not endure, and efficiently perform their extremely arduous labours, without using the porter, or other strong liquors. The reformed ones among them seemed to resent the imputation, and they selected persons of their respective classes, to speak at the meeting, and declare theii* experience to the contrary of that assertion. Accordingly, several of them most energetically addressed the meeting, in its refutation, giving facts and circumstances in support of their position and arguments. One man com- menced his animated and interesting address, by Saying, that he had now a better appetite for his breakfast, and other meals, than when he was indulg- ing in the drinking habit. And they all declared to the effect, that they now got through the same, or even a greater amount of work., than before they took the pledge ; and with less feeling of fatigue or exhaustion, at the close of their daily labours. I there briefly delivered my first temperance address in Europe, and told them something about the abstainers among the working and most laborious classes in our own Province. Often, and often since, have I spoken in the great city, in tcmperan<;e assemblies of every size and description, in buildings of various kinds and dimensions, as well as in the open space. 86 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. My stay in London, at that time, was but short, and when leaving with my family, to take uj) om* residence in Edii) burgh, a letter of introduction was fiven to me, from the Secretary of the National emperance League, to a Rev'd. gentleman, who was a leading person in the cause, in that city. He immediately introduced me to the Temperance Society there, and I became one of its members, and forthwith commenced my public advocacy 6f the cause, in its meetings ; and continued it from time to time, through nearly two succeeding years, during which our home was in Edinburgh. So soon as it became somewhat generally known among the abstainers in Scotland, that I worked gratuitously , and paid all my expenses of every kind, the applica- tions for my services in various parts of that country, rapidly increased, occasionally several in a day. I very seldom declined them, but in complying with the invitations, made the best arrangements I could, to economize time and travel ; but even in doing so, was kept almost constantly going hither and thither, far and near, and even within the first year, from the English border, to nearly the northern extremity of Scotland. So closely successive were my joumies, that I remember an instance, in which, after an absence of about a week, lecturir.g in various places, on returning home in the morning, I found an invitar tion to lecture in the evening, at a town in a differ- ent direction from Edinburgh, to that from which I had returned. I hastened off and fulfilled the request. In the year after I took up my residence in Edin- burgh, I received an invitation from the Abstinence Society in the city of York, in England, to lecture there. I compile i and delivered several addresses; and while there, invitations were given and arrange- ments made for my lecturing in a number of towns in Yorkshire. These, also, were fulfilled during that tour. Other invitations from various parts of Eng- TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 87 land followed, from time to time in that year, and the early part of 1848, while having my home in Edinburgh, all of which were carried into effect, and always with more or less of good results. Here, once for all, I may mention, that there were three or four chief considerations or reasons, which, I am confident, gave me an advantage beyond ordi- wiry lecturers on the subject, with leference to obtaining general acceptance with the people ad- dressed, and their favour to the cause ; — ^an advantage which no native or acquired ability could give me. They were these : — ^I had been a Judge for many years, — a character, or dignitary, who has ever been viewed by the people of Great Britain, as one entitled to, and commanding the utmost awe and reverence, next indeed to royalty itself. Again, — I was far advanced in years, and it was justly con- cluded, that from my long continued professional engagements and duties, I must have acquired extensive knowledge of the manifold and great evils of the drinking system, more especially as to crimes. Next, — ^I was a native of British America, and this, though perhaps chiefly from mere curiosity, induced many to come out and hear me, who would not have taken a step to hear one of their own countrymen, unless he was among the first class of talented and popular lecturers. But, lastly, — and what perhaps with many, not attached to the cause, was the chief consideration or motive for attending at my lectures — ^I gave my efforts altogether gratuitously. As an instance of the first mentioned qualification, or exciting and attractive circumstance, I may men- tion, that when the invitation was given for my first visit to York, the Secretary of the Society, proposed to his pious and kind mother, that I should be the guest of the family, during my brief stay in the city. Though they were in very comfortable and respect- able circumstances, and the worthy lady was not at 88 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. mm. f ill;' all deficient in hospitality, she was amazed and alarmed at the proposition, and answered her son, iu some such terms as these : ** Oh Thomas, it will never do, you must not think of such a thing, we can never entertain a Judge." Thoma^i, lM>wever, who took an enlarged and practical view of men and things, persevered and overcame the mother's scruples and difficulties ; and I enjoyed their hospi- tality on that visit, and occasionally afterwards; and the kind old lady found, by experience, that, in reality, I was not such an awful character, as she had imaglTied ; and that I could eat^ drink, and sleep, and talh, and walk, and in all other respects, conduct myself like other plain and common sense persons. Here I think it right to mention, that this same son Thomas, was for years before that period, and has ever since been, the zealous, active, and christian advocate and supporter of the temperance cause ; and moreover, is the identical Thomas Smithies, now of London, who, for some j^ears past, has been, and I think still is, the Editor, or one of the literary condu :ir.)rs, of that useful and widely circulated paper, —*' The British Workman." Early in the summer of that year (1848) I visited North Wales, and le(!tured in several towns there, and also made my first visit to the Orkney Islands, where I remained about 10 days, and delivered about as many temp'^rance addresses, in various parts of the Islands, several of them in the very ancient town of Kirkwall, the Cfipital. Regarding the people of these Islands, I may hero mention, that they are, in general, the descendants of the Danes ; and are an orderly, kind, and moral people. I do not recollect hearing an oath, or any ofRmsively improper expression, during either of my visits among them. I may also remark, that I never saw in any country, not even in Ireland, so large a proportion of females with fine complexions, and ^f^--9 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 89 les, now those well proportioned and regular features, which form a handsome or beautiful visage. These islands were most probably in very early ages, first inhabited from Denmark, and other parts of Scandinavia ; and afterwards, though but partially, from the adjacent parts of Scotland. There are in several parts of the Islands, extensive remains which belonged to the Druidical heathen worship, similar to those at Stone- henge in England, which are so generally known, and have so often been descried. I visited the locality where the most exto"' 've and numerous of those remains appear, severa a from Kirkwall, and could trace, by ancient .ue pillars, — some entire, and others partly broken, — a line of way, upwards of half a mile in length, which terminated at a large circular artificial mound, or tumulus, comprising about an acre; with a row of stone pillars, roughly hewn, around the border of the mound ; and there had evidently been a deep trench, encircling nearly the whole of the lower part of it. The pillars were similar to those on the line of procession, some broken, and a few entire, and still nearly perpendicular. They were of various dimen- sions ; the largest of those standing unbroken, seemed to be about 10 or 12 feet high, and between 3 and 4 feet in width, and about half a foot in thickness. They must be very deep in the ground, having stood for so many ages, most probably more than two thousand years, I saw in a gentleman's house in Orkney, some rough stone vessels, which he said had been taken from excavations in that mound; and in which, it was supposed, had been deposited the ashes of human bodies, consumed by fire, either after natural death, or as victims, in religious offerings. That there were such human sacrifices, under the ancient Druidical system of worship, in Great Britain, and other parts of Europe, sufficient evidence has been afforded, to warrant a full belief. There IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) 1.0 I.I lA&i28 |2.5 |jo ■^~ H^HI U lift ■ 2.2 U m IIJ4 m. < 6" ► ;l^^ -^ Hiotographic Sciences Corporalion 33 WIST MAIN STRUT WnSTIRN.Y. 14SI0 (714)I73-4S03 4. 90 TEBIFEBAXGE EXPERIENCE. ::h *'■% ''§\ ;i!l H, '■- ■ . ' .... . J ' N : , ; was pointed out to me, in a thicket of imae)|growt1^ ^ar to the Grrampian hitts in Scotland* a largjg ^t stone, erected on rough stone pillars, which hdd jQie piarked appearance, of its being a prepared place for such human sacrificial offerings. In the month of August, 1848, 1 went with mj- fiimily to the city of York, where we remained about 3 months. During this period, also, I was actively and almost constantly engaged in lecturing in cities and other places, in varicu;^ parts of Enghind. In the autumn of that year, I went with my family to the city of Aberdeen, called the northern capital of Scotland, where we remained until the summer of the ensuing year, 1849, a little over 9 months. Dm'ing the earlier part of this period, I lectured in many of the towns and villages, in different dirpc- tions, and as far north as Inverness. , In the spring of 1849, 1 made my first visit to Ireland, the land of my father's birth, going by steamer from Liverpool to Dublin. In this city I remained about a week, and lectured twice in the large chapel of the Rev'd. Dr. Urwick, a talented minister, and a zealous and faithful friend and supporter of the temperance cause, from its verv commencement. I have since frequently met with him, on gi^eat tempemnce occasions, both in Dublin and in England, the last time, at the ** International Temperance and Prohibition Convention," in London, in 1862, when his age I think was about 80 ; but he was able to preside effectively, in one of the sections of the Convention, and seemed as energetic and animated^ as when I first met with him, about 13 years previously. This tells as one instance, in favour of entire abstinence from all intoxicating drinks. From Dublin, I proceeded by railway, to the large commercial city of Belfast, passing over the river Boyne, near where William fought and conquered jjcgyowth, 1 had ibe red place with my tied about 8 actively V in citu38 {and. In family to capital of ammer of • months. Bctured in •ent dirpc- st visit to going by tiiis city I ice in the I talented iend and 1 its very met wim in Dublin ernational L London, 1 but he e sections getic and about 13 stance, in ^xicating the large the river conquered TEMPERANCE EXFERIENOE. 91 James, and through the important towns of Drog- heda, Armagh, and Poitadown. At this time, I remained about a week in Belfast, and deliverd a temperance address, every day but one. By invita- tion and, arrangement, I proceeded next to Bally- money, near Port Rush, passing by Carricklergus, Antrun, and Ballymena. In these places, and others around them, the great and well known revival of religion took place, in 1859, and which for a c«m» siderable time, continued to extend through neariy the whole of the Province of Ulster, the northern portion of Ireland. And here, I must not omit to mention, that from the commencementf and throughout that revival^ the people brought under its gracious influence, were led, with deep aversion, to abandon the use of intoxicating liquors, ." Many taverns were closed, for want of custom, and several publicans became the subjects of converting grace, and im- mediately withdrew from the demoralizing sale and use of those liquors. All this affords the most pointed and manifest evidence^ that a God of holiness and benevolence, views with very high disapproval and condemnation, that pernicious traffic, and the practice which originates and sustains it. While at Ballymoney, I visited the celebrated Giants' Causeway, a few miles distant on the sea shore. To those who have not seen it, or any other place of the kind, I cannot give a better idea or description of the surface of the rocks adjoining it, than to say, that it resembles a checker-board, only the figures are not all squares, but are in various forms, yet the external lines in all of them, are drawn with marked precision and exactness. They are on the face of the flat and shelving rocks which run down into the sea ; and as far as the eye can reach into it, you discern the same checkered appearance. At Stafia, on the opposite coast of Scotland, about 20 miles distant, there arc similar •■' »■ -f-i li^ TEMPERANCE EXPEBIENCE. \li T-<5 appearances ; and it is reasonably supposed, that the same lines of rocks, thus singularly marked, extend quite across the channel. On the , hi^ cliffs^ extending far around the causeway, and which run up perpendicularly, from the sea, there are numerous projecting and lofty pillars, bearing the like checkered figures, and which suggested to me a likeness to the pipes of an organ. The whole of the scenery was singularly grand, picturesque, and impressive. A boat and suitable persons are always at hand, to take visitors into the watery cavern, when the soa will permit. I, and some of the party who planned the excursion for me, went in the boat, some safe dis- tance into the cavern, and we could hear, far inward, the hollow noise of the flowing and receding water. It is said that the cavern extends about a mile in from the sea, and that the place where it terminates has been ascertained. I remained several days at Ballymoney, and each evening addressed a public meeting, and delivered three temperance discourses on the Sabbath, two of them to Sunday Scholars. My closing lecture was one of the longest I ever delivered, having, through the expressed desire of the people, been continued for nearly three hours, so zealous and enthusiastic were they, in favour of the good cause. Parting with these warm hearted friends, I proceeded by coach, still northerly, through Coleraine, and other principal places, to the old town of Londonderry, celebrated for its most courageous defence, through '^nt its protracted and severely distressing siege. uring the eventful struggle for the Sceptre, oetween James and William. Here, among kind friends, and warm supporters of the cause, I remained two days, and lectured on each evening. Thence I proceeded by Strabane, and through a dreary peat country, to Omagh, the county town of Tyrone; near which town my venerated father was born, and his pro- TEMPERANCE EXFERIENCE. , that the I, extend rh cliffs, rhich run Lumerous heckered iss to the aery was 3ive. A 1, to take ) soa will mned the I safe dis- r inward, tig water, a mile in ^rminates II days at a public Liscourses Scholars. 3t I ever desire of ee hours, favour of 1 hearted ortherly, 3S, to the its most cted and eventful nes and id warm lays, and eeded by mtry, to ar which his pro- genitors and relatives for many generations. In this town I lectured with peculiar feelingst on the evening of my arrival. On my return to Belfast, I had the pleasure of attending with the officers of the several temperance societies in the city, at the annual meeting and public demonstration of all the societies. It was truly a magnificent affair. There were 7 or 8 distinct societies of Protestants and Boman Catholics, blended together in this benevolent cause, and in the utmost harmony ; numbering many thousands in all, with their rich silken banners, with appropriate emblems displayed, not heralding wary desolation, and death, but good-will, humanity, and peace. They drew together, at the appointed central and most cohvenient part of the city, and then passed in procession, through most of the principal streets, the inhabitants by thousands, after thousands, press- ing forward to behold it, and apparently with high satisfaction. We then passed out of the city, and repaired to the open country, where, by previous aiTangement, several suitable spaces had been procured, for speakers to address the different assemblages. It was said the distance from the city was upwards of two miles. As we were entering the place, I stood up in the carriage in which I enjoyed the favour of being conveyed, with some of the principal officers, and looking back over the distance mentioned, I could not discern at the border of the city, the end of the vast multitudes, who were eagerly wending their way towards the ap- pointed places. Many vast crowds have I beheld, on various occasions, but none even approaching to equality with this, except the far greater multitudes assembled when the Princess Alexandi'a of Denmark, made her first public entry into London, as the bride elect, of His Royal Highness, the Heir Apparent. After public addresses had been delivered by a m I ■'■ ' If/;; ^ .'" -"'J,;', ■ 94 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. number of popular speakers, and temperance refreshment partaken of by those who wished itythe line of procession was again formed, and we returned to the city in similar order as before. In the evening a soiree took place, in one of the large halls of the city, at which ardent and thrilling speeches, such as Irishmen are capable of giving, were made by selected orators, from each of the two denominations. This benevolent and innocently joyous anniversary was thus brought to a close, free of that intemperance and dissipation, and subsequent reproaches of con- science, which are so often the concomitants of anniversaries, and other meetings, at which the intoxicating liquors furnish one of the principal means of sensual enjoyment. Immediately after that great demonstration, I lectured at Portadown, Newry, and other places in that section of the coun- try. On the evening of my departure, the leading friends of the cause in Belfast, were pleased to honor me with a festive entertainment, and to present me with an address of thanks for my exertions during that visit to the country ; and a large number of them accompanied me to the steamer in which I took passage to Scotland. If I had never before heard or known of the warm-hearted hospitality of the Irish, I would have been fully convinced of it, by my constant experience during this pleasing, and I trust useful tour. Shortly after returning to my family in Aberdeen, I again set out on a temperance tour, and visited first, the towns of Wick and Thurso, at the very northern extremity of Scotland ; and after delivering several addresses at each place, made a second visit to the Orkney Isles, and lectured in several of them, during about a week ; and as on the previous occa- sion, several took the pledge, and were added to the Abstinence Society. TEHPEBANCE EXFERIENOE. ',|>ftt nperance ed it, the returned Beyening lis of the }, such as made by [linations. niversary mperance )S of con- itants of rhich the principal l;ely after )rtadown, the coun- le leading [ to honor resent me ns during umber of ch I took ore heard y of the of it, by ng, and I berdeen, id visited the very lelivering ond visit of them, 0U8 occa- ed to the From tiio Orknej^s, I proceeded by steamer to the Islands of Zetland, and landed on the principal Isle, at the ancient town of Lerwick* the Capital. I was most cordially received, and treated by the numerous temperance friends ; and lectured frequently in Ler- wick, and in several other parts of the Island, during my visit of about ten days. At the meetings here, also, several were added to the Societies. I had here, for the first time, the pleasure — if such it may be called — of riding several short joumies, on the real Zetland ponies, mostly at the rather uncomfort- able short trot; but when the rough roads, and absence of steep hills would admit, of a canter, all was pleasant enough. In these Islands, as well as in the Orkneys, there are no trees, except here and there a few of foreign origin, ornamental to gentle- men's dwellings. The surface of the earth in both, except in the comparatively few cultivated parts, is composed of light mossy substances, with slender low bushes, in some places, and underneath, in all parts, *here are large portions of the various qualities of the decayed and compact vegetable matter, called peat. This is, indeed, a most valuable providential provision and mercy of the beneficent Creator, for if destitute of this, these islands could scarcely be inhabited, as the dark and wintry season is so long, and the great body of the population so poor, and the soil, in general, so unfavorable to tillage, that they could not afford to procure fiiel from other lands. The native inhabitants of Zetland, are, in general, of Norwegian origin, having been first visited and possessed by that people ; a part of the coast of Norway being at no very great distance. Like the native inhabitants of the Orkneys, they are, in general, of moral and orderly habits. A large proportion of the young men, natives of the Islands, go abroad, chiefly in the seap-faring line, numbers of them in the Greenland fishery. Most 96 TEMFEBANOE EXFERIENGB. lb!. / 'Hi I i;ir tiii: U of the vessels engaged in this fishery, step at these Islands to complete their crews, and for other pur- poses. These Zetland men have the reputation of being the very best hands for the whale fishery. ' fi ^r This one thing in Zetland I did not like ;— the labour of conveying the peat, is almost entirely performed by the women. They will carry it for miles, in large baskets or creels, slung conveniently on their backs ; and they seem to be so industrious that while passing along with the baskets empty, or occasionally even when loaded, they are employed in knitting various woollen articles. I saw lines of them, thus loaded and employed, coming into Ler- wick. I presume there is rather a necessity for their performing such burdensome work, as the men, in general, are almost constantly employed in their usual fishing occupation. They have in these Islands a breed of sheep , different from any I have seen elsewhere. They are, in general, very small, and of a li^t brown colour, with fleeces of the most delicately fine quality. By some process, however, they are made most beauti- fully white. Of this wool, all kinds of garments are made, some of them of the finest texture possible. Some of these were shown to me, which I was told were for Her Majesty. There were shawls which would nearly, if not quite, rival the celebrated Cash- mere. I purchased, and also received as presents for my family, several of these productions of female M skill and industry . ^ i ! j « »•• v .#»>tJ.t* The wintry season is long, but on tLe other hand, though the summer is but short, the light of day is then extremely long, and for a time, it is never entirely absent. One night — if such it must be called — on returning to my lodgings, after a lecturing excursion, I took up my little Bible, of small print, and could see to read it, about 12 o'clock, by the light of the previous day. The dawn of the next speedily appeared. "■l-'f V TEMFEBANGE EXPERIENCE. <^^ 97 at these her pur- tation of Bry. ■ ' :e;— the entirely y it for l-eniently iustrious mpti/f or mployed V lines of into Ler- issity for the men, 1 in their f sheep, Chey are, a colour, ity. By it beauti- urments Ipossible. was told Is which id Cash- Ipresents f female [er hand, )f day is is never mst be [ecturing ill print, :, by the Ithe next dhlhhi ").> jHif4'«> \iVfU iuift*, 1ir'*''f^*?*'t Shortly after my return from Zetland, I removed with my family from Aberdeen, and we commenced our second residence in the city of York, in England; Here the family remained for nearly a year following. During all this time, I was quite as constantly engaged in travelling and lecturing, as in any previ- ous period,, in many scores of cities, towns, and villages, in various parts of England, and as far south as Falmouth, near the land's end ; also, in the Islands of Jersey and Guernsey. A large number, in all, were added to the Societies » at the numerous meetings I addressed during that period. In the month of August, in that year, (1849) I had the gratification of attending in Paris, as a member of the World's Peace Congress, composed of about 400 delegates, chiefly from the United Kingdom ; several of them, very eminent persons. It was indeed, a most noble and impressive Assemb- ly ; and the Government of the present Emperor — then Consul — ^treated us with the utmost distinction, opening freely to our visits, all the Palaces, and Public buildings, gardens, &c., even to St. Cloud, the Consul's residence ; and the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, the celebrated Mons. DeToc- queville, gave us a magnificent evening festive entertainment. 'h* In the course of my Temperance joumeyings, I thrice visited the very ancient seaport town of Whitby, where my aff*ectionate and beloved mother was born, full 100 years before, and passed many of her youthful years. As may well be supposed, it was with very peculiar feelings, that I lectured there, and paced the pavements over which she had passed, and visited the extensive ruins of the old Abbey, founded nearly 800 years ago ; of which I had so often heard her speak, and relate the legends con- cerning it. It is indeed one of those institutions of the very oldest date, and among the first of those 98 TEMPERANCE EXFEBIENOE. 1 1 I ancient and dilapidated edifices in England, of which there are the most extensive and perfect remains. The last place in England in which I lectured, during this first sojourn, of nearly 4 years, in Great Britain, was the city of Oxford, the seat of the University of that name ; and the most renowned for extent, and on some other points, of all the similar institutions in the United Kingdom. The use of the City Hall was procured for me occasion. I had previously *been informed, that the Students, or ** Gownsmen " as they were called — ^probably only the youngest and most thoughtless ones — ^had, almost invariably, more or less disturbed the temperance meetings. There were a number of them present at my lecture, and during the whole of it, for upwards of an hour, they were perfectly quiet, and behaved with all proper decorum. The person who had informed me of their previous noisy behaviour, in moving a vote of thanks to me, for the lecture, very injudiciously remarked on their orderly conduct, as so different to what they were accustomed to exhibit, on such occasions. Immediately, they commenced their loud vociferations, and tumultuous behaviour ; and the more he endeavoured to be heard, the louder and more fierce was their clamour, to drown his speech. This scene, so unseemly and improper in both, continued for several minutes, until after a few attempts, I prevailed on the speaker to stop, and take his seat, and then the clamour and disturbance ceased, and the proceedings were quietly closed. Shortly after, I returned to my family in York, from this last tour, we repaired to Edinbm'g ; and soon after to Glasgow, where we took passage by steamer for New York, on our return to Nova Scotia, and safely arrived in Halifax, about the last of July, 1850, after an absence of nearly 4 years. i\fmmm,tk ' On summing up the principal results of my travels and lectures in the United Kingdom, and f which [ectured, in Great b of the enowned all the n. The occasion, students, ibly only i, almost nperance resent at upwards behaved who had Lviour, in are, very nduct, as ) exhibit, nmenced jhaviour ; le louder rown his )roper in 'ter a few top, and turbauce osed. n York, rg; and ssage by a Scotia, of July, of my om, and •ill) TEMPERANOIu EXPERIENCE. parts adjacent, during those years, I found that I had lectured in about 350 different cities, towns, and villages, from the extreme south of England, down to the northern extremity of Scotland ; in the Chan- nel, Orkney, and Zetland Islands, and in various parts of Ireland ; had delivered nearly 600 public addresses; travelled in all, chiefly by railways, probably near forty thousand miles, during about 700 days, in all, of joumeyiug ; had been mainly instrumental in adding more than a thousand mem- bers to the Temperance Societies ; and very probably, materially assisting, in leading very many more, to take the Abstinence pledge, or refrain from the further use of the ruinous drinks. During that sojoiun in Great Britain, I wrote and published two pamphlets, in support of the Temper- ance Reform ; the first entitled, " No Bible Sanction for drinking intoxicating liquors, but the support of the Total Abstinence cause, a Christian duty; — addressed to Ministers and Members of Churches." Six thovrsand copies of this one were printed, all of which, with the exception of a few, which I gave to frienas, went into circulation, at a small price ; the societies in several places taking them by fifties and hundreds, for distribution. The other pampl^let was of a much larger size, with the title, "An Earnest Appeal on behalf of the Total Abstinence Reform, addressed to Ministers of the Gospel, and other Religious Professors, on Scriptural Authority." In this pamphlet, I arranged in appropriate sections, all the passages throughout the Scriptures, in which wine and strong drink are mentioned, and gave com- ments on each, in support of the position I took, and still maintain, that there is no Scriptural authori- ty, for the use, as a beverage, of intoxicating wine, or any other fermented and intoxicating liquor. There were two thousand of this pamphlet published, all of which, except a solitary copy which I retained 13 100 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. m ■r, I for myself, were also disposed of, in a similar man<- ner with the other. I also composed, and had printed, and freely distributed, 6 or 7 tracts on various topics of the temperance subject, in different numbers of copies, to the amount, in all, of about eleven thousand. I feel confident, that throughout those journies and efforts in the temperance cause, I was highly favoured by a gracious Providence. My health remained as usual, though often I was greatly fatigued, from exertions in meetings, held in almost constant succession, on some long journies. This may readily be supposed, when I state, that when my hbme was in Edinburgh, on one tour in England, of 27 days, I delivered 28 public addresses ; many of them to large assemblies ; each lecture of at least an hour and a half, on an average. To the best of my recollection, I never failed to fulfil an appoint- ment ; and never met with what is generally called an accident, in travelling ; or with a loss, except at the great demonstration in Belfast, described on a previous page, when I lost an old silk handkerchief, probably worth 9 pence sterling. Neither do I remember of ever meeting with any improper interruption, except on one occasion, during a lec- ture in a town in England, when a person in the body of the hall, apparently under the influence of liquor, twice stood up, and requested me to state the names of persons and places, connected with facts and incidents I was mentioning. I answered him that I never mentioned any such names, when the facts or circumstances I was narrating, were of a discreditable character, lest they might affix a stigma or reproach, on the person or place ; and that to avoid this, in all such cases, I made the statements in general terms. The audience were indignant with the man, and with another who gave him counten- ance, and soon put them down. . At the close of the interruption, the first man came forward to me, and :.y TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 101 *Vr. lai^ man* md had racts on different [)f about oughout cause, I Be. My i greatly n almost 3. This lat when i^ngland, i; many at least e best of appoint- ly called xcept at ed on a terchief, er do I nproper ig a lec- n in the iience of itate the th facts ed him ^hen the >re of a I stigma that to tements ant with ounten- j of the ne, and said in a low tone, — ^I can tell you something in favour of your cause ; ** My father was a total abstainer for many years;" to which I merely answered, << It is a pity but his son had followed his good example." I then finished my lecture without any further interruption. Strange to say, it was delivered in a large room, or hall, in the principal hotel in the town ; which the owner let for public meetings, and to the temperance people, the same as to others. ,vi--i'H>^:. r-L-s ^,--^zb During the two years, succeeding my return from Great Britain, I frequently leckired on the temper- ance subject, in various parts of Nova Scotia, but I recollect no incident, or circumstance, deserving of special notice. In the summer of 1852, all my children having ceased to be inmates of the family, and doing for themselves, I and my wife went to Upper Canada. This removal was in pursuance of the intention I had formed, of spending a year or more, in that rich and beautiful country, in assisting the temper- ance cause, in the same manner I had been doing it, in other countries. My plan was, to establish my residence first, at one of the principal towns, at the eastern, or lower part of that portion of the Pro- vince, and move all around it, in an extensive circle, and lecture at all the principal places within it. And when that purpose was fulfilled, then to advance to some other principal and central place, and from that, to radiate in like manner, bordering below, on the first circle ; and so on, to another and another ; and as many as requisite, so as to extend my lecturing visits, quite to the upper portion of the whole region ; and to all the chief settlements, at the greatest distance northwardly from the great lakes. In pursuance of this design, we fixed our residence first, in the city of Kingston, at the foot of Lake Ontario, formerly for a time, the Capital of i02 TEMPEBANCE EXPERIENCE. a: Bf i' ■i tile Upper Province. There, I purchased a horse » and a light four-^wheeled carriage, and other artides of the needful travelling equipage ; and during the month of our residence there, I lectured repeatedly in Kingston, and in a number of the chief towns and villages around, agreeably to the plan I have mentioned. One of the Episcopal clergymen in Kingston, was a zealous and active supporter of the temperance cause, and if I recollect aright, was the President of the Society. There were also a few other influential persons, who were officers and members of it ; but its numbers were not large, and the cause then^ was not strong in the city, but rather otherwise. It is probable, that, in a great measure, this was owing to there being a very large whisky distillery directly in the suburbs. A few days after my arrival, .arrangements were made for my deliven* ing a lecture ; — and the most public notices concern- ing it were given ; the city hall was procured for the purpose, and the Mayor consented to preside. On the evening appointed, and a little before the hour for meeting, I repaired to the hall, with the worthy Rector, and another clergyman, and other friends ; but a number of the whisky party were there before us ; and the band of them was speedily increased, till they numbered probably about 120, or moi-e. We afterwards ascertained, that many, if not all of them, had been prompted and induced to assemble there, by the publicans and other adversaries in the city ; and it was said, that a considerable quantity of spirits had been furnished to them, to stimulate, and duly prepare them, for their intended and sub- sequent outrageous conduct. No doubt they were all friends of the great distillery; and in one way or another, interested in its support and success. The IVIayor did not make his appearance, at the hour appointed ; and after a short time, the elder clergy- man, the President of the Abstinence Society, TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 103 harse> artides ing the eatedly towns I have men in • of the was the a few 3rs and ge, and t rather leasure, whisky ,ys after delivep- 5oncem- [ for the e. On he hour worthy 'riends ; before reased, more, t all of semble in the uantity nulate, d sub- were or The hour 'lergy- lociety, way commettced an introductory address, but instantly a roar, or rather yell broke forth from every part of the room, so as to drown his speech. Several of us made the best efforts we could, to allay their pas- sions, and get an end of the tumult, and obtain some hearing, using reasonable and moderate persuasions, and appeals for the purpose, but all in vain. Indeed, the. more we endeavoured to pacify them, the more loud and vehement they became, in their vocifera- tions and shouts throughout the room. The seats were piled up at one end of the hall, probably done by the rioters, for more surely effecting their pur- pose; and all were standing; and the hall was rather closely filled. The fellows were infuriated, and doubtless determined on fight ^ if forcibly opposed ; and therefore, although the peaceable party were the most numerous, it was thought best not to endeavour to expel them, by force, thinking the consequences might be desperate or deadly. They still persevered in their vociferous ragings, and after about three quarters of an hour, the dapper little man, the Mayor, made his appearance, and began addressing them, to calm them down, but all without any quieting effect; for with their shouts, and insulting utterances, they treated him with a« little regard as the others who had striven to calm them. I have thought that the scene very much resembled the violent tumult we read of in Sacred Writ, which occurred at the renowned city of Ephesus, when a similar mob, though much larger, finding their crafty and its friends and supporters in danger, cried out incessantly, ** for the space of two hours, — great is Diana of the Ephesians." These whisky-innpired Kingston rioters, were also idolaters, only of a different class ; and though not in precise words, yet by similar tumultuous shoutings, they seemed to say, *' Great is the whisky distillery of Kingston." As those at Ephesus procured their gains by making 104 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. IP 1:. shrines for Diana, so these Kingston fellows, made their gains also, some of them by making the malt, and the casks, and other articles for the distillery ; and others as publicans, or in various other modes, in assisting to fulfil its deadly operations, I have often seen riotous mobs, and heard their noisy demonstrations, but I never, remember witnessing one of such a long continued, and incessantly vocif- erous character. In this particular, according to my personal view and evidence, Kingston had then the distinguishing and discreditable preeminence. How- ever, I afterwards lectured several times in the city, in other places, without the least interruption. I have recently heard, that the distillery became a failure, and the owner a bankrupt. Having completed my plan of lecturing, in the region around Kingston, I set out, by land, for the city of Toronto, distant about 175 miles. I for- warded notices to have arrangements made for my lecturing at all the principal towns and other places, on the road; and accordingly, fulfilled every appointment, during a fortnight spent on the journey. In that very beautiful, pleasant, and rapidly grow- ing city, we made our abode for about seven months, until the month of May in the ensuing year. During that period, I was almost constantly engaged in lecturing excursions, throughout the second an*anged and extensive circle of country, around Toronto ; some of the places in which I lectured, being about 50 miles in the interior, from the City and the Lake. Also, in the city, I delivered several lectures, and a discourse on the religious aspects, and various results of the whole temperance subject; and did the same, in several other parts of the region around. I may here mention, once for all, that there were then, — as I trust there are still, — ^temper- ance organizations of one kind or another — chiefly divisions of the Sons of Temperance — in nearly TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 105 V7S, made the malt, listillery ; ir modes, I have eir noisy witnessing itly vocif- ing to my [ then the e. How- i the city, ption. I became a [ig, in the d, for the ,. I for- ie for my er places, ed every ) journey, dly grow- mt seven ling year. r engaged e aecoitd around lectured, the City )d several pectSy and subject ; he region all, that — temper- • — chiefly in nearly every commuwif" whether large or small. Within this circle of . / eflforts in the cause, never did I meet with the least interruption, or improper behaviour, and indeed, I must say the same, as to all the meetings I addressed, during the whole of my joumeyings in Canada, subsequent to the boister- ous scene at Kingston, lately described. Numbers united with the cause, from time to time, at the close of the meetings. In the month of September, in the same year 1853, I established my residence in the city of Hamilton, about 47 miles by land above Toronto, and at the head of Lake Ontario, which, in its extreme length, is upwards of 220 miles. In this city, — ^which to the eye, is far inferior to Toronto^ and as a place of sojourn, or residence, is not nearly so interesting and pleasant, — I and my wife had our abode, for about 7 other months, until the spring of 1854, when we finally left that noble and fruitful land of Western Canada, and returned to Nova Scotia. During this last period, I was, as before, almost constantly journeying from place to place, delivering lectures, throughout even a far more extensive region than the one around Toronto, having travelled to the city of London, westwardly, up- wards of 80 miles, from Hamilton, and in a northerly direction, about 60 miles, to the towns of Guelph, Fergus, Eremosa, and Elora; and southwardly, about the same distance, to Drummondville, near the Falls of Niagara, and Lundy's Lane, where the severely contested battle, of that name, was fought between the British and American forces, in 1814. I also lectured in several places bordering on the Welland Canal, and Lake Erie. Through the whole of my sojourning and travels in Western Canada, I lectured in upwards of 100 cities, towns, and other places, — delivered about 150 lectures and religious discourses, on the temperance 106 TEMPERANCE EXPEBIENGE. subject, and hundreds to was instrumental in adding many the good cause. I had previously lectured in Quebec and Montreal, in Lower Canada. I may here remark, that one of the greatest hindrances to more extensive favour and prosperiiy to the temperance cause, in Western Canada, is the fact, of the great number of distilleries, where the farmers find such ready sale for their grain, and at good prices ; scarcely any of them, I believe, for conscience sake, refraining from so improperly dis- posing of it. In the summer of the year that I returned from Canada, I visited the Island of Newfoundland, for the first time. My sole object was, to assist the temperance cause, by lectures and other means with- in my power. I remained in the Island about three weeks, and delivered, in all, upwards of 20 lectures and religious discourses on the subject, several of them in the city of St. Johns, the Capital, and the others in most of the principal parts and places, on the Eastern coasts of the Island. Nearly all the inhabitants are, in one way or another, engaged in the fisheries. A very full attendance was given at nearly all the meetings, and not the least opposition or disturbance, at any of them. Several of the principal and influenti.al persons in the communities I visited, are either directly united with the temper- ance cause, or give it their countenance and favour. About 350, in all, took the abstinence pledge, at the close of the mcetinars I attended. The people engaged in taking and curmg the fish, are almost universally in plain and humble circumstances, many of them, I believe, considerably embarrassed with debt. With such of them as are not abstainers, this, no doubt, is owing, chiefly, to their habitual use of intoxicating liquors, — mf)atly ardent spirits. Nearly every part of the Island is so rocky and barren, that the laborious classes of the population. TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. ioi ig many ireviously r Canada, greatest )rosperity ia, is the where the in, and at jlieve, for perly dia- med from Jland, for assist the Bans with- 3out three lectures several of I, and the places, on •ly all the igaged in 3 given at )ppo8ition x\ of the nmunities e temper- id favour, ^e, at the e people re almost jes, many ssed with istainers, itual use spirits, cky and pulation, derive but little of the means of livelihood from the soil; but are compelled to obtain them, almost entirely from the fishing occupation, and get nearly all the agricultural productions they need, from other lands, especially from the other British North American Colonies. In closing these brief remarks concerning Newfoundland, I must, in justice, say, that I experienced much hospitable attention and kindness, during my stay in the Island. In the following year, 1855, and the early part of 1856, I continued to lecture and otherwise employ myself in assisting the temperance cause in Nova Scotia, and other adjacent parts ; and with fair degrees of success, as to numbers joining the societies. In the first-mentioned year, 1 published in one of the Halifax papers, a course of letters on nearly all the various topics and aspects of the " Total Abstinence Subject," and embodied them all, in a large pamphlet under the title of " The Strong Drink Delusion, with its Criminal and Ruinous Results, exposed by numerous Facts and Arguments ; with Examinations of Remedies." One of the main designs of the letters was, to show that no instru- mentalities or measures, will avail to prevent, or even to limit in any extensive degree, the drinking system and its crimes and other evils, but the legal prohibition of the ordinary/ traffic in the liquors. Having heard of the great United Kingdom Alli- ance, established in Manchester, for the suppression of that pernicious traffic; and of the extensive support and successful operations of that Alliance ; and judging that from m^ long legal, as well as temperance experience^ I could materially assist that excellent movement, I determined, for that purpose, again to visit those parent countries, for some lengthened period, if spared, and favoured with sufficient health and strength. Accordingly, early in the autumn of 1856, I and my wife again pro- 14 108 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. ceeded to England. Shortly after our arrival, I made myself known to some of the official persons conducting the operations of the Alliance, and offered them my gratuitous services, to assist their move- ment in any way, and in every quarter, where they might wish them to be afforded. The offer was readily accepted, and I at once entered upon the gratifying and useful employment. In order to economize as to time and travelling, and to make my exertions in this arranged sphere of active effort, the most extensively useful, I concluded to take up my residence successively^ in some of the larger cities, and centres of population, in England, and to move around them in various directions, for such periods as would admit of my delivering lectures, in all such important places, as the Execu-; tive officers of the Alliance might wish my efforts to • be rendered. Accordingly, I first fixed my tempo- rary residence in the great manufacturing city of Manchester, where the Head offices of the Alliance situated. There I remained nearly three are months ; having read}; and constant communication with the Secretaries and other officers of the Alli- During this period, and on many afterwards, ance. the worthy Secretary, Mr. Thomas II. Barker, suggested the appointments for the delivery of my lectures, and had all requisite arrangements made concerning them, as well as in all practicable in- stances for my respectable accommodation in the various communities. I here, also, think it right to mention, that similar arrangements were afterwards most faithfully and successfully, as well as kindly performed, by my friends Mr. J. G. Thornton of Bristol, and the Rev'd. Dawson Burns of London. In January, 1857, I went into Scotland as one of a deputation from the Alliance, to visit several of the principal places in that country, and to lecture on the legal prohibition of the public sale of the intoxi- * ' ■ •iyal, I )ersons offered move- re they er was on the /^elling, here of icluded of the igland, ms, for ivering Execu- Forts to tempo- city of Uiance three icatioii e AUi- vvards, krker, of my made 3le in- nn the ght to wards diidly on of ndon. of a f the ire on itoxi- TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 109 eating drinks. We fulfilled our mission with a good measure of success, lecturing to large, and nearly unanimous meetings, in the cities of Glasgow and Edinburgh, and the towns of Dumfries, Dunferm- line, Paisley, Greenock, Barrhead, Perth, Dundee, Montrose, Stirling, and Galashiels. During that sojourn in Manchester, I delivered in 20 different towns, including Manchester, Sheffield, Derby, Oldhatn, and Bradford, upwards of 30 public addresses on the Temperance and Prohibitory subjects, including several sermons ; and had the honor of being Chairman at a great meeting in the spacious and beautiful Free Trade Hall, in Manches- ter, for attendance at which, it was said, about 5000 tickets had been issued. . x. » Having thus filled up that period of residence in Manchester, early in February, 1857, we removed to Bristol, in pursuance of the arrangement men- tioned ; and remained in that city, nearly three succeeding months. During this period, I lectured in about 25 different cities and towns, including Bristol, Birmingham, Bath, Exeter, Plymouth, Gloucester, and other large English towns, and several principal places in South Wales. • '^ From Bristol we removed to London ; where we remained about six weeks, during which time I lectured in public meetings, in various parts of the city, and in places adjacent, and also in the towns of Ipswich, Chelmsford, and Brighton. During this period, the London Anniversary meeting of the Alliance was held in Exeter Hall, at which I had the honour of presiding, in place of a gentleman who had been selected for Chairman, but was not present. As on similar occasions, the spacious and celebrated Hall was crowded with thousands, and eloquent and impressive addresses were delivered by Neil Dow, Esq., the zealous and indefatigable advocate of the Total Abstinence cause, and the originator of the f\ Wt'''' ' i 1 ^' 1 r i 1' no TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. i f:5- law in the state of Maine, for the suppression of the intoxicating liquor traffic; and several other able supporters of the cause, including a written address by the Earl of Harrington, one of the House of Peers. At the close of this sojourn in London, we remov- ed to Liverpool, which was our home for nearly a year ensuing. My lecturing exertions for the objects of the Alliance were continued, with but few and short intermissions, during the whole of the time just mentioned ; chiefly in various parts of England. Shortly after returning to Liverpool, I attended at Manchester, as a visitor, at a most important and interesting Convention of Ministers of religion, of various denominations, numbering about 400; all abstainers and active supporters of the Temperance and Prohibitory cause ; and who had assembled to , devise and effect measures for assisting to attain its excellent objects. They continued their meetings and deliberations for several days, and passed various resolutions relating to those objects ; also earnest addresses to several public bodies and Insti- tutions, claiming and urgently entreating their favour and active assistance. In the month of July of ^'hat year, I went, in company with Mr. Dow and others, on my second temperance visit to Ireland. With these and other advocates of the cause, I took part in addressing two very numerously attended meetings, in the large and tine Hall of the Rotunda, in Dublin, the Lord Mayor of the city presiding. We were all most kindly cnteilained at a public festival. In the latter part of the same month, I made a visit for about a week to the very interesting Isle of Man ; and lectured on the same subjects, several times in Douglas, the cai)ital, and in other parts of the Island. During all the summer, many thousands resort to this Island, from Liverpool and other parts of Great Britain, for (( •» TElfPEBANGE EXPERIENCE. Ill reek ired the iring land, for health and recreation. This island, though belonging to the British Empire, has a civil constitution and government of its own, of very ancient date, and of peculiar institutions and ordinances, on many sub- jects of jurisprudence and civil regulation and authority. Here I witnessed a striking instance of the weak and insatiable, and nearly universal pro- pensity or desire, -^-like the Athenians of old, — ^to ** tell or hear some new thing ;" and indulge in what is commonly called ** sight^seeing" , however vain or unprofitable, or otherwise improper, the object may be. There was an uncommonly large wheeh forming a part of some factory or other building, about 12 miles from Douglas ; and multitudes of those visitors to the Island, were daily travelling in various modes from Douglas, to behold the wheel, doubtless many thousands in all, during the summer. From time to time, was heard the enquiry from those pressing anxiously forward, to those returning, — " Have you seen the wheel." I lectured at a place not far from that great object of attraction, and saw the crowds in each direction, and heard the enquiry. In the same year, 1857, I received from several total abstinence societies, in the county of Cornwall, — ^through Henry Mudge, M.D., of Bodmin, — a most zealous and active friend and advocate of the temperance cause, — several pressing invitations to visit that county, and lecture in various parts of it. After a short correspondence, it was arranged that I should spend six weeks in the county, for that pur- pose. Accordingly, having made all needful arrangements, in the latter end of October, I com- menced that long period of journeying and lecturing. And here, I must make a small digression, — if such it may be called, — to relate briefly, what was at first a very untoward occurrence, and which threatened very inconvenient consequences during the tour. I packed closely, in a red carpet bag, all the wearing ^ .:\-. 112 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. U W' V ; apparel of every kind, which I thought I would require during the six weeks absence, over and above the garments in which I was clad, at setting out. The whole distance from Liverpool into Cornwall is more than 350 miles. I had at iirst intended to remain for a few hours at Birmingham, where the train was to stop, and to go on to Bristol by an afternoon train, and remain there the first night; but before reaching Birmingham, I concluded to proceed direct to Bristol. But as my ticket was only for Birmingham, I had to renew it there; and the train having been over time for anival, but a few minutes were allowed for stopping ; during which I had to hasten up a long flight of steps, to get my new ticket. On my return, meeting on the platform the porter whom I had directed to change my bag- gage to the proper carriage for Bristol — shaving told him of what it consisted, — I asked him if he had done it, and he said, " Yes, all rig?it, Sir, all right" and I immediately stept into the carriage, at the moment the train commenced moving, having had no time to examine if all was indeed right. Pro- videntially, I had kept in my own possession, a small leather bag, in which was the money for my expenses on the whole tour, and some private papers and miscellaneous articles, but all personal apparel, as already mentioned, was in the red bag. The only other item of baggage, was a small black trunk, containing books, pamphlets, &c. During this last part of the journey, I had no opportunity of ascer- taining whether the bag was on the way ; but on arrival at Bristol, about 100 miles from Birmingham, the black trunk duly made its appearance, but after the most diligent search, the red bag was absent. I sent immediately a telegram to Birmingham regarding it, but by the last train that night, the answer was still unfavorable. I had neglected to aflix to it ap:" ticket with name and destination, and there was , I TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 113 nothing to distinguish it from any other red bag, but a few folds of white thread on one of the handles ; the remains of what, at a previous time, had served to attach to it, a card of ownership. The next forenoon, at Bristol, still no favorable tidings came by the trains from Birmingham ; and in the course of the day I proceeded to Plymouth. The following day being the Sabbath, I remained there until Mon- day ; and until late in the day made enquiry, from time to time, at the railway station, for the missing property, but without success. As I had an agg^oint- ment to lecture that Monday evening at Liskard in Cornwall, about 16 miles from Plymouth, I purchased several articles of apparel, immediately needed, and left a memorandum with a friend, to enquire daily at the station concerning the bag ; and if obtained, to forward it to me at a place named in Cornwall ; and then by the last coach for Liskard — ^there being no railway — I went on and fulfilled my appointment. I continued fulfilling the daily appointments arrang- ed, and had nearly abandoned all hope of recovering the bag, but about a fortnight after my arrival in the county, it reached me at one of the places of appointment, free of any disturbance or injury. Whether it had been remaining quietly at Birming- ham, or traversing the land, I never ascertained. Was there not, ultimately, a gracious Providence, even in this comparatively small affair? I was engaged in a mission of benevolent duty, importantly bearing on the interests of religion. My arranged lecturing tour of 6 weeks, in that very interesting county of Cornwall, was duly ful- filled ; during which time I delivered public addresses on the prohibition of the liquor traffic, in 20 different places, including the principal towns of Liskard Bodmin, Truro, Falmouth, Penzance, Redruth, and down to a small place called Saint Just, at the very southern extremity of Great Britain, or "land's 114 TEMPEBANCE EXPERIENCE. . t : I h::^: end," as it is generally called. In some of the places I lectured repeatedly.. I had very frequent inter- course with the mining and other working population of Cornwall, and I here think it right to say, that from all which I witnessed among them, I think they are the most moral and well behaved people of any pail; of England ; and I have travelled in every section of that great country, and had intercourse with its various classes. This superiority of the Cornwall people, as to moral behaviour, is doubt- less Mpng in a great degree, to their being, more generally, abstainers from the use of intoxicating liquors; and also, because, in proportion to pupula- tion, there is a smaller number of public houses for the sale of those liquors, and less drunkenness than in any of the other counties. In consequence, they have also, the like superiority as to the commission of criminal offences. A!l these facts in their favour, were clearly shown a few years ago, by statistical tables, contained in an elaborate and most able Repoil, made to Lord Granville, as President of the Committee of the Privy Council for Education, by Mr. F. Beiitley, the oldest School Inspector in the Kingdom, under the National System, on that subject. He also showed in the same tables, that there was a less number of school houses, and a more limited literary instruction in Cornwall, in proportion to population, than in any other county of England. From these facts, and others which might readily be produced, it is evident, that literary or secular instruction, of itself , is not sufficient to prevent, or even materially limit drunkenness, and other criminal offences, or produce, generally, moral and orderly social conduct. Perhaps, there is no other part of England, where the people have, to so great an extent, retained their very earliest habits and manners, as in Cornwall ; which may partly be attributed to their remoteness ' the places uent inter- population to say, that m, I think d people of ed iu every intercourse :ity of the ', is doubt- )eing, more intoxicating I to pupula- 3 houses for enness than uence, they commission heir favour, V statistical most able dent of the ucation, by ctor in the [1, on that tables, that ses, and a mwall, in her county ers which at literary fficient to nness, and Uy, moral id, where lined their iCornwall ; )moteness TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 115 from nearly all the great centres of population, and their being engaged to such a great proportionate extent, in merely the two occupations, — mining^ in the interior parts, and ff^hing^ on the coasts. Whether Saiuts, true and fahey formerly abounded in Cornwall, more than in any other part of Eng- land, I have had no means of ascertaining ; but cei-tainly, Tdid not find in any other county, so manj' places with the saintly appellation prefixed. I lectured in four of them — St. Austell, St. Ives, St. Just, and St. Colomb ; and there are a number more, which I had not the gratification of visiting. In the latter end of January, in the following year, I commenced a tour, for a course of lectures on the same subject, in some of the eastern and midland parts of England ; and continued it nearly 7 weeks. During this period, I delivered about 30 lectures, in upwards of 20 different cities, towns, and villages, in the counties of Nottingham, Lincoln, Leicester, and Warwick. The meetings were very well attended, some of them, most numerously ; no opposition was shown, on any occasion ; and several were' added to the Societies. Through the ensuing spring, I continued to lecture, with the like favorable results to the cause, in various parts of Lancashire, also in the adjoining counties of Yorkshire and Shropshire. In May of the same year, 1858, we made our residence the third time, for nearly two months, in the ancient city of York, and during that period, I lectured in many parts of Yorkshire, including York, Whitby, Scarborough, Ripon, Wakefield, Richmond, and Beverley, and in several towns and villages in the adjoining county of Durham. In the month of July, we returned to Halifax, and again resumed our residence in that city. On reviewing my journeyings and exertions in the Alliance cause, for procuring the prohibition of the 15 I m li'- 'f* 116 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. destructive liquor traffic, I found that during those nearly two years, from 1856 to 1858, I had lectured in upwards of 100 diiferent cities, towns, and other places in the United Kingdom, in several of them frequently ; delivered between 250 and 300 public addresses ; travelled, probably, not less than twenty thousand miles — chiefly by railwa}'^ ; — and I feel highly gratified at being able to say, that during that period, I was instrumental in bringing many hun- dreds to adopt the total abstinence principle, and condemn the traffic. ? «' ;; iTiit. And here, I record my grateful acknowledgments to a merciful God, who in His benign Providence, preserved me not only in safety, through those years of extended journeyings ; but aftbrded me such a constant measure of health and strength, — though over 70 years of age, — and such favorable circum- stances in travelling, that I was enabled to fulfil all my numerous appointments, with only one'exception, from an unavoidable hindrance ; in which solitary instance, however, I procured another advocate to perform the service. I may further mention, that I experienced no loss of property, on any of my journeys, nor did I meet with any insulting or improi)er interruption in any of the meetings I ad- dressed. In employing those exertions in conformity with the christian principle of endeavouring to benefit my fellow-beings, I experienced, indeed, that according to the divine promises, the path of duty, is that of safety , and of an approviny conjimence. In the sununcr of 1862, 1 again visited England, going gratuitously as a delegate from Nova Scotia, to attend the great " International Temperance and Prohibition Convention," held at that season in London. It was, indeed, a noble and most interest- ing, as well as influential exhibition of the extensive progress of the temperance cause, in very large portions of the civilized world. There were, in all, TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 117 ring those cl lectured and other ill of them 300 public tian twenty nd I feel luring that nany hun- iciple, and ledgments rovidence, ;hose years me such a I, — though lie circum- to fulfil all exception, jh solitary ilvocate to iition, that iny of my mlting or tings I ad- ponformity ouring to fieed, that [i of duty, mence. England, r& Scotia, ranee and season in interest- lextensive ;ry large re, in all. upwards of 900 enrolled as members of the Conven- tion, about 400 of whom attended during its sittings as delegates from different countries in Europe and America. Several of the members of the Convention were of high rank, and many of official or social distinction. Of these classes, there were some Peers of the Imperial Parliament, a few Dignitaries in the Established church, and Baron DeLyndon, a nobleman of Holland, one of the Chamberlains of the King of that country. A very considerable number of ministers of the various religious denomi- nations, also, were members, many of whom attended the sittings of the Convention. At the commencement, the Convention was divided into the following seven sections : — Historical and Bio- graphical — Religious and Educational — Band of Hope Operations — Social and Sanitary — Scientitic and Medical — Economical and Statistical — Political and Legislative. Each of these sections, had a President, and several Vice-Presidents and Secretaries. The meetings of the Convention continued three days, during which, numerous addresses were made, and papers read before the sevf rnl sections, and in the united Body, on the various special subjects, relating to, and comprised within, the two great general subjects y named in the title of the Convention. 1 had the high honor itf being one of the Vice-Presi- dents of the Convention, and of reading before it, a Paper on the Liquor traffic in Nova Scotia. On the two subsecpient visits which I made to England, in the yeiu's 18 (53 and 1864, — respecting miy two published answers to the inlidel writings of Dr. Colenso, — 1 addressed several Temperance and Prohibition meetings in London. Having thus given a somewhat detailed narration of ray journeyings and efforts in the Temperance Reformation, through upwards of 22 years, and in various countries ; in bringing to a close, this section 118 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. ^Jl K.» / ^' r" t'W m of my book, with a view to advantage to the cause, as regards some of my readers, I thmk it right to offer some facts and remarks, relative to the sale and use of the intoxicating liquors, and concerning that excellent Reform. And first, as to the use of those liquors, may briefly be noticed, their injurious effects on the bodily system, as declared by those, who, from their studies and professional experience, are best able to judge on the subject ; and as innumer- able instances have constantly, and often, most deplorably shown. On this point, some thousands, in all, of medical men^ and many of them of the highest skill and reputation, have declared that alcohol, which is the intoxicating ingredient in all of those liquors, is of a poisonous nature, to all parts of the animal system. In accordance with this judgment, they have all asserted to the effect of what has been stated by one eminent man of their number, that, '* There is scarcely a morbid affection, to which the human body is liable, which has not, in one way or another, been produced by them, — that there is not a disease but they have aggravated, nor a predisposition to disease, which they have not called into action ; and although their effects are, in some degree, modified by age, and temperament ; by habit and occupation ; and by climate, yet the gen- eral and ultimate consequences are the same." This testimony has been fully corrobated and confinned, by the British House of Commons, in the year 1834, by the adopted Report of its Committee, which states regarding the use of the spirituous liquors, *' That the following are only a few of the evils directly springing from this baneful sonrce : — destruction of hcaltli ; distMisc in every form and shape ; premature decrepitude in the old ; stunted growth, and general debility and decay in the young ; loss of life, by paroxyisnis, ap()[)lexie8, drownings, burnings, and accidents of various kinds ; delirium tremens ; para- TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 119 le cause, right to sale and liug that of those IS effects se, who, jnce, are aiiumer- n, most uusaiids, [1 of the red that in all of all parts rith this eftect of of their affection, is not, in n, — that ited, nor lave not s are, in lent; by the gen- This ntii'med, ar 1834, ch states »a^hat directly Liction of eniature general life, by igs, and ; para- lysis; idiocy; madness; and violent death, as proved by numerous medical witnesses, who have made this, the subject of their long and careful investigation." ??»' v » '- Through all ages, and in every land, where the intoxicating liquors have been used, the same direful effects have resulted, in greater or less degrees, according to the extent of their consumption. This, as regards diseases, and sudden and premature deaths, may at once be accounted for, and must ever be the case, from the testified fact, already given, that they act as a poison to the animal system. For this reason, it has been repeatedly stated by eminent physiologists, in such terms as these ; that the habitual use of alcoholic liquors, in moderate, or even small quantities, is not merely unnecessary for the maintenance of bodily and mental vigour, but is unfavorable to the permanent enjoyment of health, and becomes to the average man positively injurious, if protracted for a sufficient length of time, to allow of the development of its effects." As one proof of the poisonous nature of those liquors, I may mention, that in the course of my journies in Nova Scotia alone, not less than 7 or 8 well authenticated instances have been made known to me, of very young children dying immediately, from taking very small quantities of ardent spirits. But to all the great evils ah'eady mentioned, must be added, the myriads of crimes of every degree, — the pauperism, destitution, and suffering, — the waste of useful property, — the extinction, or debasement of moral feeling, — the violation and extinguishment of natural affection, — the profligacies and cruelties, — the ne- glect and rejection of religion, — the Sabbath desecration, — tlie degradations and dismissals from churches, — and the numerous other forms of misery and ruin, which have constantly atilicted humanity, from the same prolific cause of evil ; and both as to time and eternity. ^ 120 \ TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. K On the other hand, and in marked and happy contrast^ to those enormous and abounding crimes and afflictions from the uae of these liquors, there have been plainly exhibited, by universal ddmission, myriads of instances of the excellent and happy results of the Abstinence ReJ^orm. These have been every where manifested, — in reclaiming drunkards, — ^vast multitudes in all, — and preventing that deplorable evil in far more numerous instances ; — in the restoration to health — preservation and pro- longation of life — the prevention and reduction of crime and immorality, — the prevention and removal of pauperism, destitution, and suffering, — the intro- duction of comfort and harmony into families, where before, through intoxicating drink, — strife, outrage, and unhappiuess, almost (constantly prevailed. With reference to the acquisition and preseiTation of propertjs and thereby increasing the ordinary accommodations and comforts of life, these advan- tages have also been secured beyond calculation, by the direct, as well as indirect influence of this reform. Embarrassments have been removed, and the principal branches of industry, — the true source of a country's political welfare, — have, from the same cause, been revived, and have flourished, and rendered whole communities independent and pros- perous. Several instances of this description of good have come to my knowledge. Through the same excellent reform, in numerous instances, clear- ness and vigour of intellect have been restored, or increased, moral feeling, and the kindly affections, l)ormanently improved, respectability of station and character restored, and the (jood instead of the corruptiuf/ example, inttuentially exhibited. But by far the most valuable of all the benefits and blessings which have followed this reform, are those which have directly, and indirectly , resulted to the cause and interests of our holy and beuevolent TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 121 id happi/ \g crimes )rs, there imission, id happy lave been 'unkards, ing that ances ; — and pro- uetion of removal he intro- 38, where outrage, re vailed. seiTation ordinary je advan- ition, by of this ved, and e source mm the led, and nd pros- ^tion of ugh the s, clear- ored, or ections, ion and of the benefits rm, are 'esulted levolent religion. Numerous and well authenticated instances of the kind, and in several countries, have been repeatedly published in various forms, most of them by ministers of religion, who witnessed or vouched for their truth. I have personally known of several instances in my native land, of direct advantages to the cause of. religion, from this reform ; and have been authentically informed of many others, in diflerent countries where I have advocated the good work. In a number of such instances, the drunken and intemperate were reclaimed, and shortly after became piouf<, and were received as members of churches, and walked consistentli/. One Presbyterian minister informed me, that he had undergone more trouble with the members of the church under his charge, during about three years previous to the introduction of the abstinence reform among them, in preventing or settling controversies and dissen- sions, than he had experienced during about sixteen years subsequently ; although the number of members in the latter years had much increased. Another minister informed me, that within the sphere of his ministrations, when the abstinence cause declined, and but a partial and temporary increase of the use of strong liquors took place, the attendance in the places of worship fell off; but so soon as the absti- nence reform again prospered, the attendance, very visibly, became more numerous, and the people more attentive during the religious services. A minister of another denomination informed me, that during a rapid and general advance in the abstinence cause, in the part of the country in which he officiat- ed, many members were added to the Societies ; and that soon after a revival of i^elif/ion took place in the same quarter ; and that the whole number of those, who, on that occasion, were added to the church, were from among the persons who had previously joined the abstinence societies, during that revival 122 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 11^ of the cause. These are only a few, among the very numerous instances, of advanfcjge to the interests of religion, which have occurred in every country, in which this excellent reform has been established, and succeeded in any good degree. Viewing then, the crimes and deaths, the destitu- tion and other afflicting evils ; and especially the deep and diversiiied injuries to the churches, which have constantly been resulting from the use of intoxicating drinks ; and on the other hand, the advantages and blessings, particularly those connected with religion, which have always attended the abstinence reform, surely, the assertion may confi- dently be made, that it is the impenUlve duty of every minister, and other professor of our pure and benign jhristiaiiit^', to do his utmost to advance sueh a benevolent and valuable reform. But, unhappily, the great majority of such ministers, and other members of churches, in nearly all denominations and countries, with those facts and results before them, either through prejudice^ or some other quite inexcusable caune^ still refrain from afibrding this reform their support and countenance ; and some of them are even 3'^et opposing it. Many of them endeavour to justify or excuse such conduct, by saying, that the principles and precepts of Christi- anity', are sufficient to prevent those existing evils, and effect the desired reform ; and therefore, that Abstinence Societies, and their operations, are not at all needed. To this seemingfy plausible objec- tion, this plain and decisive answer may at once be given : — It is perfectly true, that our holy religion, if rightly understood and duly appreciated, in all its solemn threafeninr/s and warnings^ its gracious exhortations and prowises^ its wise and impe^Mii' e, as well as salutary precepts; in all its means and pure ministrations, and in the sancHfi/inff and bene- volent spirit which it breathes, is perfectly sufficient TSMPERANOE ong the to the ill every uis been •ee. destitu- ially the s, which ( use of and, the onnected ided the ay conti- duty of t)ure and mce sueh ihappily, id other ninations ;s before ler quite ing this some of of them luct, by ehristi- ig evils, )re, that ns, are e objec- once be eligion, n all its racious |e''Mi,i'.e, ns and d hene- fiicient to make every individual all that he ought to be, not only with regard to the subject in question, but in every other particular — and both as to time and eternity. But Christianity has been established, and its means and ministrations have been in operation for upwards of 1800 years, and yet, during nearly the whole of this period, all the same mighty obstacles have been impeding its progress, and the same complicated and destructive evils have been afflicting the church, through the use of intoxicating liquors. Yet, assuredly, there has been no deficiency in our divine religion itself, with regard to preventing or renftving those evils. The defect, or rather the fault and blame have rested with inconsistent ministers and members of churches, who all along, most erroneously, seem to have thought, that the use of strong liquors, was in accordance with the spirit and precepts of the gospel. Here has been the fatal error, the awful delusion, and consequently, religion has not prevented those evils, even in the church, but they have still been perpetuated, and were increasing from age to age, throughout society, until the commencement of the Temperance Refor- mation. Had the gospel been truly imbibed in its spirit, and its pure and spiritual precepts been rightly regarded, those who profess to believe and obey it, would never have indulged in the use of those ensnaring and ruinous liquors ; and, conse- quently, abstinence societies, with reference to the church, would indeed not have been needed. By reason, however, of the erroneous and fatal conclu- sion just mentioned, such societies, not only as to the world, but even for the benefit of the church, have not only been justifiable and proper, but highly expedient. Here, seme scripture passages may be shown, and remarks offered, in the way of a brief answer to the erroneous opinion, that the sacred records sanction 16 M 124 TEMPERANGE EXPEBIENOEi p. I'-' V ' the ordinary or habitual use of intoxicating drinks. In the first place, those who contend for such sanctioned use, must surely admit that none of the ardent spirits now in use, nor the fermented liquors from grain, are allowable under that authority, for no such liquors are mentioned, or referred to, in any part of the Scriptures. The discovery of their production, was not made, until long after the scripture canon was closed. As to these liquors, therefore, — and which produce by far the greater part of the evils, — any such sanction for their use is altogether out of the question. On their own ground, then of Scripture — all those per soul* plead- ing that authority, sL*>uld at (jnce abandon the use of all ardent spirits, and all malted intoxicating liquors. The unrighteousness of their manufactuj^e and use, is manifest, among many other reasons, for this one especially, that they are produced by the destruction of grain, and other products, given by the beneficent Creator, for food and other necessaries for his creatures ; by which destruction a constant injury is inflicted on the labouring and poorer classes, by the prices of those needful things being thereby kept at higher rates than they otherwise would be. To this must be added, the temptation and snare, to which the licensed public sale of those lujuors expose those classes, even more especially than the rest of society. As to the vinous liquors, neither is there any Scriptural sanction for the common use t)f such of them as ar^^ of the intoxicating quality. It is evident, that there are two diflferent kinds of wine mentioned in Scripture, — one of the fermented and intoxicating description, and the other of the opposite nature, and refreshing and healthful. This distinction perfectly harmonizes the several passages of Scripture, where wine is mentioned as a divine blessing, and its use recommended; and those drinks. or such B of the I liquors rity, for dto, iu of their fter the liquors, greater heir use leir own m plead- i the use ►xicating lufactuiie sons, for i by the ^ven by 'pessaries constant ' classes, thereby ould be. mare, to expose rest of ere any such of It is of wine tied and of the . This )assages divine those TEMPERANCE EXFERIENGE. ui passages where it is spoken of as a " mocker,*' and fatally injurious, and its use expressly prohibited Such opposite language, under any other view or construction, will make inspired Scripture contradict itself, which can never be the case oh any subject. ' Of the unfermented and healthful kind, wo find the following passages : — ** Thou shalt furnish him, (tiie Hebrew servant,) liberally, out of thy flock and out of thy floor, and out of thy wine-press, of that wherewith the Lord thy God hath blessed thee," Deut. XV., 14. — "Thou didst drink the pure blood of the grape," Deut. xxxii., 14. — "Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of all thine increase ; so shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine." Prov. ii., 9, 10. — "Thus saith the Lord, as the new wine is found in the cluster, and one saith, destroy it not, for a blessing is in it," &c., Isa. Ixv., 8. Now, it is certain, that neither the "pwre blood of the grape," nor the " new wine," when fiowing out into the vessel of the *^ press;'' nor when in the ** cluster*^ of the grape, is of an intoxicating descrip- tion, but it is in the fermenting vat, that the noxious quality is produced. Similar passages as to the unintoxicating and good description of wine, arc contained in Deut., xviii., 4, xxxiii., 28. — Nehem., x., 37. — Jer. xxxi., 11. — Hos. ix, 2. The passover wine, and that used at instituting the Ordinance of the Sacrament, by our Lord, were unfermented and unintoxicating. He called the latter, "the fruit of the vine." And on the former occasion, all leavened and fermented articles were strictly prohibited. As to the wine and other liquors of the intoxicating quality, there are numerous Scripture passages, which prohibit and condemn their ordinary or habitual use. The following are most express on the point: — "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging ; and whosoever is deceived thereby is not 126 TBM?BfiANGE EXFEBIENP9< 1^;' •:■ i!iJ i '. wise," prov. xx., 1. — ** Be not among wine bil^bers," Prov. xxiii., 20. — "Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth its colour in the cup» when it moveth itself aright ; at the last it biteth like a serpent and stingeth like an adder. Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thine heart shall utter perverse things," s on the subject, as in the presence of a heart-searching God, and by the revealed light of llis Spirit and Word. By so doing, they will assuredly find, that instead of promoting as they are required to do, the holy and benevolent cause of Him, whom they call Redeemer and Lord, the>' arc in reality wounding Him " in the house of his friends," and in the presence of His enemies ; — marring his gracious designs ; hindering the progress of his glorious 17 132 TEMPERANCE EXPEBIENCE. $ I f 1 gospel, and often contributing to deprive Him of its trophies. Having given Himself as the Redeemer of His professed followers, He has required them to be ** a peculiar people." By this, of course, is meant, that they are to be peculiarly different in motives and designs ^ in desires and affections ^ in hopes and fears, and other inward emotions, as well as in outward demeanor and actions, from those who are appropriately denominated ** the people of the world." If they are indeed purified unto the service of the Saviour, they will not only possess such inward peculiarity, but will manifest it throughout their daily history. Unhappily, however, a divinely forbidden conformity to the world without, by such multitudes tvithin the churches, is one of the most marked proofs of the very limited degree of vital piety in the present age. We are told in Scripture, that " if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him;" and that "the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, are not of the Father, but are of the world." The "people of the world," as a matter of course, breathe its spirit, conform to its maxims, and are seeking enjoyment, in one or many of its vain or corrupting pursuits. They possess no zeal for the glory of God, or the saving of souls ; they are not wAtching and praying, that they may not enter into temptation ; they are not careful or anxious to pre- serve and ap[)Iy a fair portion of iheir worldly substance, for the propagation and support of religi- ous truth ; nor are they scrupulous as to the effect their condifct may have upon others, in regard to example. Consequently, their use of intoxicating licpior, as one of the means of gratifying a mere fleshly appetite, may l)e readily accounted for ; and is quite in character with all other parts of their conduct. But, surely, an opposite courts might well be expected from those who profess to be TEMPERA^ JE EXPERIENCE. 133 Him of redeemer [ them to ourse, is ferent in 'Mons, in J, as well [lose who lie of the le service ess such roughout I divinely , by such the most 5 of vital Scripture, 7e of the ist of the le of life, " The course, and are vain or il for the are not nter into s to pre- worldly )f religi- he effect gard to »xicating a mere or ; and "of their might to be influenced by a different spirit, and by the exalted motives already intimated. It is, however, a melan- choly truth, that in most countries, the great body of such professors, both of ministers and laiti/^ are still partaking of those drinks of the sensual and the worldly, whereby crime and poverty, disease and death, and eternal ruin, are constantly occurring. They are thus most blameably, and injuriously, failing to exhibit in this particular, that peculiarity ^ for which they are so expressly and affectingly re- quired to be distinguished from the irreligious and careless around them. They are also required to be ** zealous of good works." Now, it has been most convincingly shown, and is, indeed, all but univer- sally admitted, that the Abstinence movement is a truly good work. Some of its excellent results have, in previous pages, been brieflj' exhibited, and wher- ever it has been introduced, they have been more or less apparent on the very face of society. But some are still so blind and prejudiced, as to object to an Abstinence Society, that it is of an ** anti-Christian character." To this rash and false imputation, this answer may in the lirst place be given, — that it is evidently the design of the Divine Author of all good, not only that we should have the well-grounded hope of eternal happiness, Init that moral evils of every description, with all their consequent afflictions, while in this temporal state, should be prevented or removed ; and that we should possess all that positive comfort and enjoyment, which are consistent with our fallen and imperfect condition. Hence, every institution and measure, adapted, or tending to effect these gracious designs, as to those temporal blessings, are not only allow- able and proper, but commendable, and deserving of support. Now, it will scarcely be denied, even by those who view such societies with aversion, or indif- ference, that they have been extensively instrumental, 134 TEMPEEANCE EXPEEIENCE. in reclaiming the intemperate, — restraining from crime, restoring health to individuals, comfort to families, preventirig the waste, and directing the proper application of property, with many other ad- vantages of a temporal nature. These good results are admitted by all, and they are in direct accord- ance with the revealed design of that benevolent Being, who wills our happiness both here and here- after. So far then, from abstinence societies and their operations, being anti- Scriptural, directly the reverse is palpably and emphatically true. Of course, it is not pretended, that the institution of such societies is enforced, or even hinted at in the Scrip- tures ; but the same may be said as to Bible, Tract, and Missionary Societies, and all the numerous benevolent institutions ; and those for moral im- provement, now in active jind beneficial operation. Christians of every deuomination are, very laudably, and without any scruple, assisting the operation of these. As negative particulars concerning Abstinence Societies, these may be mentioned, that, — they are not endeavouring to effect, nor are they producing, any injury whatever, to any of the interests either of individuals or society. They are neither desiring, or endeavouring to undermine, or alter, the laws or the constitutions of gciveriiments ; or to effect any change in creeds, or institutions, formularies, or ministrations of religion ; or in the least degree to disturb any ecclesiastical or civil establishments ; nor can it with truth be said, that the effects of their operations are ever of an injurious description, in any form whatever. Their efforts are for good, and the results are for good alone. It is true, they do not profess to be religious societies, in the strict sense of the term ; but while instrumental in effect- ing a great moral reform, they are thereby, also, subserving the paramount interests of religion. The friends of this reform know, and will as readily ac- TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 135 ing from omfort to Gting the other ad- )d results t accord- Biievolent md here- eties and •ectly the )f course, of such :he Scrip- le, Tract, Qumerous iioral im- )peratioii. laudably, oration of bstmence they are 'oducing, its either desiring, i laws or ffect any aries, or iegree to mts ; nor of their 3tion, in 70(1 y and they do e strict effect- ly, also, n. The dily ac- knowledge as those whe refrain from assisting them, that no human device or efforts can, of themselves, avail to change the hearty or radically alter the prin- ciples, or conduct, with regard to genuine religion ; but they do contend, and have good reason to do so, that abstinence societies, through the means and operations they employ, may be instrumental, and have been so, in innumerable instances, in placing individuals under more favorable circumstances than they were before, for attending on the ministrations of religion, and for receiving its truths, and being influenced by its precepts. By abandoning the use of intoxicating drink, an individual is, just so far, complying with these divine exhortations and com- mands : — ** Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts ; and let him return unto the Lord." " Cease to do evil, and leani to do well." " Forsake the foolish, and go in the way of understanding ;" with numerous other precepts of a similar description. It has already been shown, that one good effect of the abstinence reform, has been a more general and serious attendance on the ministra- tions of religion. By forsaking this one dangerous and injurious practice of using strong liquors, very many have been led to abandon other fascinating ways of transgression, so generally attending it ; and while acting in this way, have been met with the in- vitations and encouraorements of mercv ; have been induced to read and hear the message of salvation^ and, ultimately, have been brought to experience its regenerating and saving power. In such cases, the gracious promise is realized — •* Whoso confesseth and forsaketh his sins shall have mercy." It is also objected to the societies, that some of their numbers hold infidel or heretical opinions. Admitting that there are a very few of them of that character, it would scarcely seem courteous or right, to refuse them the privilege of uniting with Chris- 136 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. I,'] r, I '1 tians, in the promotion of a work of such general benevolence and usefulness. In the course of such united exci-tion, these persons might receive some good to themselves, with regard to religion, by ob- sei-ving the more exalted principles and motives, and the superior zeal and persevering activity, exhibited by orthodox christians, in carrying forward this excellent work. Even with reference to the Gospel itself, the inspired and discriminating Paul has said: — "Some indeed preach Christ, even of envy and strife, and some also of good-will; what then, notwithstanding, every way, whether in pre- tence, or in truth, Christ is preached ; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice." If orthodox pro- fessors would silence the reproaches, and weaken the influence of those who are unsound in the faith, there is a ready and scriptural way of eftectiug these purposes. Let them actively engage and fake the lead^ in this and every other movement for promoting morality and happiness, and assisting religion; and thus they will most effectually prevent such re- proaches, evince the sincerity of their profession, and show that they are, indeed, the redeemed people of the Lord, '* zealous of good works." But what shall be said on this subject, concerning the thou- sands of Christian ministers, and the vast multitudes, in all, of members of evangelical churches, enrolled in the Abstinence Societies, and assisting their efl'orts ? Undoubtedly, some deference and import- ance should be afforded to their judgment and con- duct. It will scarcely be pretended that they are careless as to the spread of infidel or unscriptural opinions, or indifferent to the interests of true reli- gion, and gospel morality. Even those others, who oppose the abstinence cause, or refrain from assist- ing it, must readily admit, that many of these ministers and members are among the wise and ex- cellent of the earth. Their decision and conduct, TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 137 general of such e some by ob- lotives, ictivity, [brward to the ig Paul even of I; what in pre- therein lox prO' weaken Q faith, \g these ake the )moting n; and icii re- fession, people it what e thou- titudes, snrolled ^ their iraport- id coti- hey are 'iptural le reli- •8, who assipt- [■ these md ex- >nduct, therefore, on the subject, should induce such others, very strongly to suspect that themselves are indeed in a wrong position. It is very well known, that the use of intoxicating liquors has, in numerous in- stances, led to the adoption of infidel sentiments^ and in'eligious and immoral conduct, but no instance can be produced in which the adoption of the abstinence principle, or the operations of the societies, have, of themselves, produced any such sentiments or conduct ; nor have they the slightest tendency to cause any such evil results. Scripture declares, that, ** it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing ;" and we are com- manded to " abound in good works ;" and to *' do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." Now, abstinence socie- ties form an instrumentality in active and efficient operation for good, and good alone, There are still many drunkards to be reclaimed, some even in the churches; — many of the young and unwary, with those fast verging towards intemperance, to be warned and preserved from ruin ; — many women and chil- dren to be delivered from want and suffering ; — many hearts to be relieved fi'om piercing and pining anguish; — and finally, many souls to be saved from eternal death, through the intoxicating cup. Surely, then, it is the duty and well worthy of Christians, to endeavour with all their zeal and energy to accomplish these exalted and benevolent purposes, by all the lawful ways and available means within their reach. It is one of the special objects of their calling and redemption, to be as salt to the earth, and as lights to the world, ever watching and labouring to restrain all manner of evil, and encou- rage and promote every description of good. Finally, if Christian Ministers would act in accor- dance with thc.'r high and holy vocation and duties, they should exhibit the example of constantly abstain- 138 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. /ill M ;S1 ■J I It ing from all intoxicating liquors, and also refrain from furnishing them to others; slwA further, from the pulpit, and on other occasions, and in every suit- able and available mode, zealously warn and exhoii; against their use, as being" not only dangerous, but decidedly improper. All other professors of our self-denying and benevolent Christianity should absttiin in like manner, and according to their ability, and the means in their power, endeavour to promote the abstinence reform, and for the suppression of the ordinary traffic in the destructive liquors. Such con- duct will in both classes be in full harmony with their high and holy vocation ; and will exemplify to a selfish, sensual, and unrighteous world, that they are, indeed, a redeemed and ''^peculiar people, zealous of good worhs.^' • -n >.u: Before concluding this subject of the Temperance Reformation, it may be well, to oft'er some remarks and arguments, concerning the legal prohibition of the public retail traffic in the hitoxicatiiig drinks. The experience of the many years of the Temperance move- ment, in various countries, has clearly shown, that the means employed under a course of moral suasion, and rational argument, although having accomplished in a vast number of instances, the most excellent results, yet are quite inadequate to relieve society altogether, from the mischiefs and miseries con- tinually proceeding from that prolific source of evil. That experience, has further made evident, that for the welfare of society, the entire prohibition of the public sale of those liquors, as common beverages, is indispensably requisite. In proceeding to examine some of the chief points involved in this question of legal prohibition, it will be proper, in the first place, to introduce, in a general way, some principles and strictures, on the nature and consequences of the manufacture and sale of those drinks ; and the true position of the persons engaged in those employ- TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 139 refrain r, from jry suit- exhoii; ms, but of our abstain ty, and [lote the I of the ich con- Lth their fy to a ley are, zealous perance remarks )n of the 3. The e move- vu, that suasion, iplished xcellent society Bs con- of evil. hat for of the erages, xamine 3tion of t place, les and of the le true mploy- ments, with relation to the rights and interests of society. On these points, it may confidently be asserted, that every individual partaking of the pro- tection and other advantages of the civil state, is bound to contribute, in return, a fair proportion of his time, abilities, and exertions, towards promoting the prosperity and improvement of society. This is, indeed, a well understood maxim ; and is declared by writers on jurisprudence to be one of the primary fundamental principles which lie at the very founda- tion of the civil union. One of the most learned among jurists, and whose authority none will ven- ture to deny — ^the eminent Judge Blackstone, when treating on this point of individual responsibility to society, has employed these terms : — '* Municipal law is also a rule of civil conduct, and regards him as a citizen and bound to other duties towards his neighbours, than those of mere nature and religion ; duties which he has engaged in by enjoying the benefits of the common union ; and which amount to no more than, tliat he do contribute, on his part, to the peace and subsistence of society." Now, holding in view these two most important require- ments, it may confidently be affirmed that, so far from the manufacturers and venders of intoxicating drinks fulfilling that responsibility, they have en- tirely and most wickedly failed in both of these essential particulars of civic duty. Concerning all engaged in these occupations, it may be said, with- out any hesitation, that they neither produce nor put anything into the common stock or market of society, contributing either to its subsistence or peace ; but directly on the contrary, one class of them is un- ceasingly engaged in destroying some of the principal means of mihsistence and comfort ; and at the same time, by such destruction, producing and sending into society the most powerful and malignant means of destroying Hh peace. The other class, also, is as 18 140 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. I I 1: a,! constantly employed in putting into the widest and most virulent operation, the same fruitful means of crime, destitution, and destruction. The poor Amei'ican Indian, and others of the coloured and ' half civilized tribes, who bring intp the markets of various countries the fish and the game, or furnish from the forest the baskets, brooms, and other sm^ll but useful articles, may justly say that they contribute to the subsistence and welfare of society. But far otherwise with the manufacturers and venders of the intoxicating drinks. They furnish nothing which contributes either to subsistence or peace or other good to society. In short, theirs are occupations which form one unmitigating and constantly enduring curse and scourge, as regards the general prosperity and happiness. Yet they and their families subsist, and some of them even become rich in gains derived from the productive toils of the great majority of the rest of the populatiau. Even tliose who conscien- tiously abstain from the pernicious liquors, are com- pelled to bear some of the injurious consequences which result from those vicious and destructive occupations, in the form of taxation, or other pecu- niary contribution, through crime and pauperism; and often l)y effects of the most distressing descrip- tions. Yet, although the doings of these transgres- sors, form one invariable instrumentality for public injury, now thiit their unrighteous occupations are threatened with legal prohibition, they are every- where raising the cry of "oppressi'^n !" of "invasion of natural and civil rights ! " and in many places are confederating and employing means of various descriptions to enable them still to pursue their pernicious employment and secure their iniquitous gains. Away with all such selfish and preposterous cant about invasion of rights. Has any person, it may be asked, a right, natural or civil, to follow a business, the consequences of which are continually lest and I meaus 'he poor [red and irketa of ' furnish ler smf*ll >ntribute But far rs of the g which or other upations enduring 'osperity subsist, I derived ty of the jonscien- are com- 3queuces structive er pecu- iperism ; descrip- ausgres- >r public ions are 3 every- nvasion aces are various lie their iquitous ssterous jrson, it bllow a tinually TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 141 inflicting iall forms of injury and distress upon every class of their fellow-beings around them ? These manufacturers and traffickers, and their patrons and advocates, may safely be delied to show any ground or authority for such pretended claim of right based on the laws of nature, or on any of the fundamental principles on which the civil union is founded. They cannot now say that the articles they produce and vend are at all needful Or useful for ordinary bever- age, as many millions of persons of all ages, and in all classes and climates, are most advantageously abstafhing from their use ; and therefore it is per- fectly manifest that all the rest of the human family may obsei*ve similar abstinence with equal advan- tage. It is true the}' may urge, but it is a sorrowful fact, and one which should never have existed, that, for many ages, and in civilized countries, they have been legally licensed to manufacture and vend the intoxicating Mquors. But this plea does not at all meet or answer the arguments here advanced on the ground of the laws of nature, and the primary and essential principles which form the true foundation of the common union. We know full well that in very many countries, and some of them the most en- lightened — and whose civil constitutions have been the most matured or perfect, laws have, from time to time, been passed, subversive of the religious, natural, and civil rights and interests of the general population ; and deeply injuring and afflicting them. In all such instances, as the one under discussion, it may appropriately be said, — ^hoary-headed error and unrighteousness are not, on that account venerable, or to be legally sanctioned or longer permitted to exist. Having briefly shown that the manufacturers and. venders of the intoxicating drinks have not, in any degi'^e, discharged their responsibility and duty, as a part of sbciety, by contributing — in the words of I ' . • ' • 142 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. m 'k III Blackstbne — to its subsistence and peace, it may be useful to employ a little time and attention in ex- amining this point of a legal license for their im- righteous doings. It will here lie argued that such license is not only contrary to the rights and interests of society, but, on the other hand, that it is the duti/ of every legislature and government to prohibit and suppress the common or indiscriminate sale of intox- icating drinks. In maintaining these positions, it will be requisite to penetrate below the surface of the erroneous notions <^ommonly entertained as to the natural and civil rights of individuals, arid the powers and duties of legislatures and goveniments, in relation to sanction or prohibition, as to matters directly and materially affecting the general welfare. On these points, also, it is proper to advert to some of the primary and immutable principles on which civil society is founded. And here, again. Judge Blackstone may be properly cited, tis one of the most enlightened and valid authorities. In treating of the nature of laws in general, and while referring to the will of the Creator, and man's duty to obey it* he thus writes : — ** This will of his maker, is called the law of nature ;" and he goes on to say : — ** Aa the Creator is a being of infinite wisdom. He has laid down only such laws as were founded in those relations of justice that existed in the nature of things, antecedent to any. positive precept.< These are, — the eternal immutable laws of good and evil. Such, among others, are these principles : — ^that we should live honestly ; hurt nobody ; and should ren- der to every one his due/' Now, let us^ apply the test of these eternal and immutable laws of good and evil to the manufacturers and venders of intoxicatingi drinks, in order to judge whether any legislature or government is acting right or> wrong in grauting them license to follow their respective occupations. Aodi first, as to these persons acting honestly towards the / t < TEMPEBANGE EXPEBIENCE. 143 may be n in ex- ttheir im- tiat such interests the duty libit and of intox- tiond, it irface of ad as to arid the iiments, matters welfare, to some n which I, Judge the most ating of erring to obey it^ s called :— " As He has in those ature of These id evil, that we uld ren- ply the ood and xicating. a.ture or igthem Aiid; irda the rest of society. Thei word ** honestly" must here be understood in its most enlarged signitication, and be held to mean conscientiously and uprightly. Surely, it must at once be said, that they are not so acting, but quite tlie reverse, while instead of contributing, in any way, to the peade and subsistence of society, they are constantly furnishing the most virulent and effectual means for injuring and afllicting it. One class of them is constantly taking from society, in vast quantities, the bounties of a gracious Provi- dence, given for bodily nourishment and comfort ; and by their destruction, furnishing and sending into use articles absolutely pernicious, as to health, morality, peace, and all the other public interests. By such destruction this class is acting with palpable. disJionesty, in enhancing to society the prices of those needful means of subsistence and comfort; and the other class is acting with even greater dishonesty by constantly putting into extensive use the means which are the most actively instrumental in causing pauperism and crime, and all other forms of distress and ruin throughout society. While both ^of these classes, by the gains they draw from the great drinking portion of the community, secure a com- fortable, and, in many instances, even a luxurious subsistence for themselves and families, they, by their occupations, contribute nothing in return, either for subsistence or for promoting the well-being of society in any other form. And, thus, they may truly be said to be constantly violating that primary and immutable law, both natural and civil, as well as divine, which requires all to live honestly and up- rightly towards their fellow-beings. Applying, as a test, the next eternal and immutable principle, which requires that we ** Awrf nobody" their offence against society appears still more flagrant and injurious. They may rather truly be said to be hurting every body ; for, in one form or more, every individual in r 144 TEMPEBANOE EXFEBIENCE. ,1 lli society is made to feel the injurious and aMcting effects of their unrighteous and destructive employ- ments. By the operation of natural and immutahle laws, and under the retributive providence of the Moral Governor of the universe, they and their families are very frequently brought to experience heavy afflictions, — through intemperance, as well as by the minous effects of corrupt example, — ^by dis- tressing bereavements, — by the the pangs of a guilty conscience, — ^and often by the terrors and despair of an untimely death. As to hurting society, it would be a liice waste of words to go about proving it in any detailed or extended manner. The crimes and deaths; the destitution and pauperism; the diseases of body and mind ; the corruption of morals ; the impiety and open profligacy ; the bereavements in families ; the widows and orphans ; the begging of helpless and suffering children from door to door ; and the thousand other forms of sin and wretchedness most loudly proclaim, as with one piercing wail, that so far from those manufacturer^ and venders hurting nobody, they are incessantly, ' more or less severely, hurting and afflicting the whole of society. As regards the third test to be applied to them, that of the imnm table principle to render to all their due^ what has been already said, in relation to the other two principles of ** living honestly," and " hurting nobody," will \ye quite sufficient to make perfectly evident that those per- sons are not rendering its due to the rest of society, but entirely the reverse. Divine laws, of univei*sal obligation, ought, surely, to be of paramount authority ^\\ih parliaments and governnients in every countiy denominated Christian. Among the first of these laws, we find the commands to *' love oiir" neiglibours as ourselves;" to "do to others as we would they should do unto us ;" and even to "abstain from all Jipptaranccof evil." It must, TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 145 afflicting employ- iniutable !e of the nd their :perience 9 well as — bv dis- f a guilty i despair )ciety, it I proving le crimes sm ; the ption of By ; the orphans ; ren from lis of sin with one facturers essantly, iig the est to be nciple to idv said, ** living l)e quite lose per- society, mivei-sal ira mount ill every the first" love oii^' rs as we oven to' t niuet, surely, be evident to all that these manufacturers and venders are directly violating all these divine and benevolent precepts. The foregoing condensed, but imperfect view, of the enormities of the spirituous liquor business, has been given, not so much for the purpose of passing condemnation on the persons engaged in those unrighteous employments, as with the design of preparing the way for remarks on the palpable inconsistency, as well as grievous impropriety, of giving any legislative license to those occupations. It may, indeed, boldly be asked, can a legislature, in any country whatever, more especially in one called Christian, be at all justified or excused in affording its direct permission to occupations so deeply injurious to the morals, the prosperity, and peace, and all the other interests of society. Surely no other than a negative answer can be truly and conscientiously given. But yet, by a blind forget- fulness or infatuated perversion •f the very first principles of society, and of civil legislation, those pernicious occupations have, for ages, been legally licensed. It is not requisite here, to scrutinize or inquire minutely into the motives which have dictated and influenced such perverted and injurious legislation ; but it may be sufHcicnt and quite justi- fiable to assert that if it were not for the pecuniary gain, both public and private, derived from this source of mischief, together with the cravings of merely sensual and depraved appetite, in defiance of truth and reason, its public sanction would not be suffered to exist for a day in any country upon earth. * . Some investigation will, here, be appropriate, and may not be useless, jis regards the right or legitimate power of a legislature to license occupations so deeply and unceasingly injurious to the public peace and welfare. And, here again, reference may lie 146 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. ihad to the same learned jurist, whose authority has already been adduced. In treating of the law of nature, or the eternal and immutable principles of good and evil, and which law he defines to be ♦* the will of the Creator," he writes as follows :— ♦* This law of nature being coeval with mankind, and dictated by God himself, is, of course, superior in obligation to any other. It is binding over all the globe, in all countries, at all times. No human laws are of any validity, if contrary to this ; and such of them as are valid, derive all their force, and al! their authority, mediately or immediately from this original." He further declares, "Upon these two foundations, — the law of nature, and the law of revela- tion, depend all human laws ; that is to say, no human laws should be suffered to contradict these." In treating of municipal law, in its widest significa- tion, he says : — ** It is properly defined to be a rule of civil conduct, prescribed by the Supreme Power, in a state comiiainding what is right, and prohibit- ing what is wrong." And in discoursing on the essentials of good government, the perfection of which he justly states, ** is among the attributes of Him who is emphatically styled the Supreme Being," he describes the grand requisites of such govern- ment, to ])e these three : — " wisdom, goodness, and power ; wisdom, to discern the real interests of the community ; goodness, to endeavour always to pursue that real interest ; and strength or power, to carry this knowledge and intention into action." Applying, then those primary and innnutable prin- ciples of good and evil, right and wrong, and l^earing in mind the true designs and purposes of civil and municipal laws, namely to command what is right, and prohibit what is wrong , it may safely be asserted, that no legislature or government has any legitimate right or power to license the manufiicture and com- mon sale of intoxicating drinks ; and, in effect, thus • TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 147 lority has le law of icif^les of be •* the :^** This ind, and perior in er all the man laws d such of and al! from this hese two of revela- I say, no et these." signiiica- be a rule e Power, prohibit- ^ on the lection of •ibutes of B Being," 1 govern- iiess, and its of the ways to )ower, to action." ble prin- d bearing civil and 'ifjht^ and asserted, egitimate md com- !cct, thus inflict upon society the innumerable mischiefs and miseries which the use of those liquors has so abound- ingly produced. By such procedure, so far from prohibiting, they directly encourage and promote, what is radically and essentially wrong as regaads society, whose interests and welfare they are appoint- ed to guard and advance. To some this may, pro- bably, seem rather presumptuous language ; but bringing it to the test of the primary and righteous principles already adduced, and adverting to the whole truth on the subject, it will plainly appear to be not only excusable, but perfectly wananted. It may, indeed, truly be said, that by such legislative license, there is neither manifested true *' wisdom" to discern, nor a sufficient measure of ** goodness" to endeavour to promote, the real interests and hap- piness of society. If the constitutional right of an English parlia- ment t-> [ '*b'bit the free manufacture and sale of in- toxicatit . iiks had ever been doubtful, such right was fully uecided and declared by the proceedings on the subject in the House of Commons in the year 1834. In the celebrated report of the committee of the House on the whole subject, at that period, there are the following clauses : — "That the right to exer- cise legislative interference, for the correction of any evil which affects the public weal, cannot bo ques- tioned, without dissolving society into its priniitive elements." "That the power to apply correction, by legislative means, cannot be doubted." In a sub- sequent page, the report suggests the following prospective or ultimate remedies for the evils de- scribed : — " The absolute prohibition of the impor- tation from any foreign country, or from our own colonies, of distilled spirits in any shape." *' The equally absolute prohibition of all distillation of ardent spirits from grain;" and "the restriction of distillation from other materials to the purposes of 19 148 TEMPERANOE EXPERIENCE. I • the arts, manufactures and medicine ; and the con- fining the wholesale and retail dealing in such articles to chemists, druggists, and dispensaries alone." The report further suggested that " the government should publicly declare its detennination to intro- duce, early in the ensuing session, some general and comprehensive law for the progressive diminution, aud ultimate suppression, of all the existing facilities and means of intemperance, as the root and parent of almost every other vice." The whole of the report was adopted by the house, and thereby made its own act, and was ordered to be printed and cir- culated for the information of the public. The power and right of a British legislature to prohibit the manufacture and sale of all intoxicating liquors for ordinary and indiscriminate use, was a few years ago, further continued by the royal assent, expressly given, to such a prohibitory law for the province of New Brunswick. But, now, even this higher stand and more en- larged position must be taken, namely, that it is the positive duty of a legislature to lay its strong pro- hibitory hand upon the whole of that enormous instrumentality for vice and ruin, and bring it to an end at once and forever. And here, again, one of the principles of municipal law, namely, to '* prohibit what is wrong," must be brought into application. As regards this point of the duty of a legislature, the learned authcn*, already so frecjuently cited, after having treated of the right of the supreme power to make laws, goes on to say, ♦* but further, it is its duty likewise." With reference to the subject here treated of, that truthful position must, of course, be taken in coiuiection with the general principles pre- viously laid down, of commanding what is right, and prohibiting what is wrong. It is not, therefore, a matter of opinion, or policy, or expediency to ob- serve and uarry out these original and essential t ' u r I TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 149 the con- i articles B.'* The ernment ;o intro- eral and linution, facilities d parent 5 of the by made and cir- c. The prohibit ^ liquors ew years jxpressly 3vince of nore en- it is the ong pro- normous J it to an I, one of ■ prohibit )lication. ^islature, ;ed, after )ovver to it is its ject here mrse, be )Ie8 pre- is right, lerefore, y to ob- Qssential principles of legislation and government, but is one of strict and imperative duty, having reference to the public welfare, and the true designs and purposes for which legislatures and governments have been formed and appointed. Although, with reference to these cardinal principles, mistakes and perversion^ frequently occur — like as here on the subject under discussion — still those are recognized as the princi- ples by which legislatures and governments, under all liberal or free constitutious, profess to be guided and determined in all their deliberations and mea- sures. As it has, therefore, been so invariably evident that the sale and use of intoxicating drinks inflict innumerable and the very heaviest wrongs and alflietious throughout society, no further reason can be needful, to show that, as soon as a brief experience had exhibited those pernicious effects, it became the imperative duty of the legislative power, in every country, to prohibit and remove the causes which produced them. If it be required to show examples and instances of legal prohibition, in anything like similar cases of public injury, they can be abundantly produced. Under our British constitution pugilistic prize fights and bull-baiting, public gaming and lotteries, pro- fane publications, and indecent exhibitions, are legally prohibited ; yet none or all of these evils, if not so restrained, would produce an amount of crime and immorality, or of mischief and affliction in society, to be compared with that which is con- stantly resulting from the sale and use of intoxicating drinks. The sale of tainted or unsound provisions is also legally prohibited, but if such sale were permitted, although the extremely poor might be occasionally tempted and induced to purchase such provisions, at greatly reduced prices, and bo somewhat injured in health, yet it cannot bo imagined that, in the ordi- pi 150 TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. nary circumstances of society, evils would result, either private or public, to be at all compared in number or affliction with those which the use of in- toxicating liquors is constantly producing. Numer- ous other instances under this, our comparatively free constitution, might be adduced of legal prohibi- tion, as to various occupations and pursuits ; and it may truly be said that, as regards injuries to society, the whole of them are far from being equal to this one of the traffic in intoxicating drinks. How is such marked inconsistency as to prohibitory legisla- tion to be fairly accounted for ? With reference to the design of the present discussion, it is not at all needful, nor, probably, would it serve any useful purpose, to attempt here to answer that very natural and important (question. But truly it would not be a very difficult task to accomplish. The increasing agitation, in difterent countries, for the prohibitory measure, has given rise to the out- cry, from various quarters, of " invasion of natural rights," and of "arbitrary and unjustifiable inter- ference as to matters of diet." All such unfounded objections may be met and fully refuted by the an- swer that only the manufacture and sale of those liquors for ordinary beverage, is sought to be pro- hibited. And further, it is altogether improbable that any more extended prohibition will be proposed in this country, or any other enjoying a free consti- tution. Under the legal prohibition which is here contended for, should individuals be so foolish and wicked as to manufacture witfiin their private pre- mises any of the intoxicating liquors, merely for their personal and sensual indulgence, or that of their households, no such prohibition will reach them. They will only be prohibited from furnishing those liquors to injure their neighbors and society. It will be seen that among the several positions advanced and maintained hero, the principal are TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 151 1 result, pared in 36 of in- Numer- iratively prohibi- ; and it society, I to this How is ' legis!a- rence to ot at all ly useful I natural 1 not be tries, for the out- natural e inter- founded the an- of those be pro- )robable roposed i consti- is here ish and ite pre- •ely for that of ;h them, g those ositions pal are these three : — that the manufacturers and venders 'of intoxicating drinks, so far from fulfilling their natural and civil responsibility and duty to society, by con- tributing to its subsistence and jjeace, or its welfare in any other particular, they are, by their occupa- pations, incessantly and deeply inj'jring and afflicting it. Next, that the pernicious results to society from the common or general sale of these drinks having ever been so aboundingly mpnifest — holding in view the original and immu^ Ic ^ uciples on whic' > * 'il society and municipal law are ^v;gitimately founued — such sale of those liquors should never have been legally licensed or permitted. And, lastly, that, in accordance with the invariable legislative duty of guarding the interests of society by prohibiting what is wrong, that unrighteous and destructive occupa- tion should, by every legislature and government upon earth, be immediately prohibited and brought to an end. In close connection with this subject of the entire legal prohibition of the conmion sale of those pernicious drinks, or rather as a branch or part of such legislation, may be mentioned a measure, which within a few^years past, has been suggested by that excellent Society, entitled, " The United Kingdom Alliance, to procure the total and immediate legisla- tive suppression of the traffic in all intoxicating liquors." The measure proposed, is an Act of Parliament, providing, that where two thirds of the rate-payers in any town, borough, or other specified district, or locality, shall, by their votes at a public meeting, — duly called and held for the purpose, — signify, that they arc unwilling that any license shall be ffranted, for the common sale of intoxicating drinks, within such locality, or place, then no such license shall be granted, except for medical, or other specified and limited purposes. This is, substantially ^ the meaning, or object, of the proposed measure. m 152 \ TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. It has been submitted to the British House of Commons, and as might have been expected, has met with a first refusal, but it will, with the strictest justice and propriety, be still urged for Parliamentary enactment. It is in perfect consistency and harmony with the natural and civil rights and interests, and the Constitutional principles, which have here been advanced and treated of. And further it is strictly just, in itself, and in full accordance with various acts of British Imperial legislation, many of which, allow n.ere majorities, either to pass or disallow, regulations or measures, of a corporate or other civic nature, intimately relating to, and affecting, the interests and welfare of society. Here, may be closed, these extended remarks and arguments, regarding this corrupt and destructive liquor traffic, the most gigantic and deadly opponent of the noble and benevolent work of the Temperance Refor- mation. It may be allowal)le, and probably useful, before closing this chapter, to mention some circumstances of a personal nature, showing the advantages of a protracted abstinence from all intoxicating liquors. For more than 40 years, I have been an abstainer from all ardent spirits ; and for about 24 years from wine, and all other fermented drinks ; and for many years previous, had used these latter, but very occasionally and sparingly. I am, now, at the close of my eightieth yeai\ and am in sound bodily health, and am not conscious of any abatement in the capa- bility of exercising my mental powers, as fully and cliectively, as at any period of my life : probably more so, having the advantage of more enlarged knowledge and experience. In proof of this asser- tion, I may mention, that during the two last years, down to the present date, I have for a large portion of the time, and often for weeks together, written 8 or 10, and occasionally 12 hours of the 24; and i I TEMPERANCE EXPERIENCE. 153 lis asser- much of it, original composition^ and on various topics. Now, I am fully aware, that I am but an ordinary man, both as to bodily and mental powers, but under the mercy of a gracious Providence, I attribute my favourable state, as just described, chiefly to an entire abstinence from intoxicating drinks, and from tobacco^ in every form and to temperance on other material points. Many with whom I have been acquainted, who set out in the race of life, about the same time as myself, and not a few, at various periods after, have, years ago, passed into the eternal world, some of whom, it is certain, shortened their days by intemperate living, and chiefly by the use of intoxicating liquors. There are others still on the stage, far behind me in years, — some of them, not much older than my oldest children, — who 1 see, infirm, or shaken, and weak in bodily fi'ame, from some, or all, of the same irregularities of living. Myriads of instances, through ages, have invariably shown, that the habitual use of intoxicating liquors, has been injuri- ous to the bodily functions ; and by engendering and aggravating disease, of one kind or other, has shortened life. There are certahi laws of the bodily organization, which like those of the mind, and of morals and religion, cannot be violated with impuni- ty. Nature, though strenuously resisting, must ever suffer injury from every outrage or encroachment, on its essential and established laws of healthy action. I have mentioned my abstinence from the use of tobacco. The habit of using this poisonous article, which, of late years, has been so rapidly increasing, is one of the most sensual and inexcusable, as well as pernicious modes of injuring bodily heath, as well as mental vigour ; and of impairing, or preventing, a sound, rational, and discriminating judgment. So prevalent has the use of this noxious drug now become that even children of 10 or 12 years, may be seen liiii 154 TEMPEBANCE EXPERIENCE. h m ! I!;! using it, both in the pipe and in the mouth. Unhap- pily, there are professing christians, and some even in the sacred ministry, who set them the evil exam- ple, and thereby encourage, and help to confirm them, in the baneful practice. Of all the forms of sensuality, and low animal indulgence, this does, in the view of reason and temperance, seem to be the most inexcusable and offensive. Perhaps I may be somewhat in error, but I have often thought, that if persons of healthy parentage, always lived according to all the laws of true tem- perance, the average of life, exclusive of what are called casualties, or accidents, would not be less than 90, or even 100 years, and with such a freedom from bodily suffering, as is now far from being generally enjoyed. The Scripture truly says, — "he fliat shall love life, and see good days, let him eschew evil, and do good." And this instruction of infallible wisdom, applies not only to religion and morals; but to natural principles, and laws, with their regular and appropriate application and employment. '-/'<'- t-ii MVO'ti 'ii. •yir ^; !j;*H -, ' %\^ BELIOIOU6 EXPERIENCE. 15? CHAPTER V. RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. The subject on which I am now entering, is, in every view of it, very far more important than all the others which have preceded it in this memoir, and demands from me the most solemn and search- ing deliberation and faithfulness, in describing its Scriptural characteristics, and personal anxieties and disclosures. I am to treat of the special and direct operations of the Author of my existence, on that intelligent and immortal spirit with which he has endowed me. It is true, there are some who think they possess a genuine knowledge of the scriptural plan of salvation, and of all the essentials of the Christian religion, and yet deny that there is any such direct influence, in the work of spiritual regen- eration. Others, there are, who admit that there is such a direct divine operation, but yet judge of it as not to be consciously felt, or known by those on whom it is wrought. Now, contrary to all such real ignorance on the subject, the direct operations of the Holy Spirit on the several powers and faculties of the human spirit are plainly revealed throughout the inspired volume. Not only from plain declarations of scripture, but from sound reason, and the true scriptural philosophy of the whole subject, it is cer- tain, that such a direct and conscious testimony of the Holy Spirit, is a perfectly valid and consistent doctrine. Very many passages of scripture, not only protiaise that it is attainable by true penitential believers, — testifying of their pardon and peace with God ; — ^but further show, that it is the privilege of 20 156 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. / V all such characters f to possess and enjoy it in a feet- ing and unmistakable manner, in a greater or lesser degree, according to the measure of their faith, and their loving and active obedience. The following are but a few of such passages : — ** The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God." Rom. 8, 16. — ** Now we have re- ceived not the Spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God." 1 Cor. 2, 12. — "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you." 1 Cor. 3, 16. — ** Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts." 2 Cor. 1, 22. — ** In whom , also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise which is the earnest of our inheritance." Ephes. 1, 13 — 14. In the first passage here cited, there is mentioned, a witness of the Holy Spirit with the spirit of man. Now a witness, is one who reveals or makes known certain facts to others ; and surely in every such in- stance, the person to whom they are communicated, must, at the time, be conscious of the reception of the knowledge imparted. In two of the other pas- sages, an " earnest of the Spirit" is mentioned. This expression is in allusion, or analogy, to some- thing given as a pledge for performance, or as part payment, in the case of some covenant or agreement between parties ; and in every such instance, surely, the party to whom the pledge is given, or payment made, cannot but know that he receives it. - In the case of the gracious witness borne by the Holy Spirit, as an '* earnest" of future blessings, a con- scious knowledge of receiving that earnest, is equally evident to the person to whom it is given. In Ano- ther of the cited passages, a question is put, as though they to whom it was addressed, could not but know by the inward spiritual revelation, or testi- \ RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 157 in a feel- or lesser faith, and owing are irit itself 3 are the 5 have re- he Spirit lings that 2, 12.— , and that 3, 16.— jarnest of In whom with that st of our entioned, of man. 3S known such in- unicated, eption of ther pas- Bntioned. to some- r as part greement 3, surely, payment - In the the Holy 3, a con- 8 equally In ^no- put, as d not but or testi- mony of the sacred and truthful witness, that their *' bodies" were his "temple." Now, this precious gift of the Holy Spirit, is not anywhere mentioned in such terms as to confine it to the members of the Roman, the Corinthian, the Ephesian, or any other Christian churches ; or to the early or any other age or ages of Christianity. In that first period of the Church, that gift did not necessarily confer on any who possessed it, the power to work miracles. It is always mentioned in the scriptures as the common privilege of all believers ; and there is abundant scriptural authority to show, that such divine inv.ard testimony is given to all true and obedient believers, throughout all ages of the Church. In many texts, the Holy Spirit is called " the Spirit of Christ," be- cause His gracious influences have been purchased, for the good of all, by the righteous and atoning work of that almighty and compassionate Redeemer. It is written : — " If any m^n have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." These words are of the very widest application. They clearly mean, that any man, professing Christianity, in any age, or country, holding any creed, or system of doctrine, however orthodox; or under any mode or form of church institution, government, discipline or wor- ship, or any other external particulars, if he have not the " Holy Spirit,"— the *' Spirit of Christ,"— he does not really belong to Christ; or in other vrrds, he is not a member of Christ's mystical body, a, real Christian. Viewing all these cited passages, and the many others of the same import, it aiay be re- peated, that he who possesses the irflaence of that gracious spirit, witnessing, as scripturally declared, that he is pardoned and accepted; and that Christ is thus ** formed" in him, ** the hope of glory," cannot but know it, for it is written, — " Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, exeept ye be reprobates." So intimate is that spiritual union 158 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. between Christ and true believers, that scripture de- clares (Ephes. 5, 13), — ** We are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones ; that is, of His mystical body, — the Church, — all the members of which are, by the operation of the Divine Spirit, in the exercise oi faith, united to Him. Now, although this scripture testimony is perfectly sufficient to show the truth of this inward witness of the Hoty Spirit, in every genuine believer, yet as sound reason, and true philosophy have been referred to in relatien to the subject, it may be not altogether useless, as to certain descriptions of persons, to examine it on these grounds also. We are clearly informed in the inspired word, that the eternal God is a Spirit, — a purelj^ Spiritual Being, who is " the Father of the Spirits of all flesh," as the scripture declares ; and ot every other description of spiritual existence ; — that He is everywhere present ; and that in Him ** we live and move and have our being." He created and breathed into man, an immortal essence, or spirit. He constantly sustains and preserves that spirit, while here ; and he has told us, that it will exist forever. Now, it may truly be said, that it is in full accordan(;e with all sound jjhilosopht/, as applied to the su1)joct, that He who so formed the human spirit, can by the operation and influence of His owh spirit therr')n, qnicken and enliyhten, or elevate and strengthen, ov depvess^ and afflict that human spirit ; or sustain, cheer, and comfort it, and cause it to re- joice, in a thoroughly convincing consciousness of the 2)ardonin(f mercy and t\\Q favour of Him who called it into being, and continnes its existence. Surely, all this is i)erfectly rational and consistent, as well as l)lainly scriptural. Kven that philosophical and speculative theologian. Dr. Paley, in treating of this inward testimony of the Holy Spirit, to a person relieved of his burden of sin, declares, ♦^^hat he might as soon forget his escape from a shipwreck, as not i * t HELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 159 pture de- s of His at is, of ambers of 5pirit, in although tto show ly Spirit, isoii, and latien to ;ss, as to ne it on led in the Spirit, — a er of the ires ; and stence ; — : in Him Q created or spirit, t spirit, ill exist is in full )plied to an spirit, wu spirit mte and n spirit : it to re- ss of the o called Surely, s well as ical and g of this person 10 might ', as not know that he had experienced that testimony. He will know, and can call to mind, the time, place, and other circumstances of that precious comforting wit- ness of pardoning mercy, and divine acceptance. We are all fully conscious of the natural feelings of love and aversion; oi anger, envy, ambition, dnd the various other passions and emotions, which arise or dwell within us. C^ertainly then, on the ground of reason alone, a person cannot but be conscious of the presence and direct witness and effects of that gracious Spirit, who is essential love; and who, as the scrip- tures declare, bestows on the hearts and spirits He regenerates, His own fruits of " /ove," ''./o?/," and *'^eace," making these to "abound," in all confiding and obedient believers. Tliey are solemnly warned and exhorted not to "grieve" nor "quench" the spirit of God, whereby it is said, they are " sealed unto the day of redemption." Kvcry l)eliever constantly requires the strengthening and comforting assistance of that blessed spirit. Let all, therefore, contir.u- ally and earnestly seek His gracious influences, and cherish and obey all His intimations and lead- ings. Then shall their "peace flow as a riv(^r," and their " righteousness as the waves of the sea ;" and the light of " the sun of righteousness" shall shine upon their pathway of life, " more and more, unto the perfect day." The foregoing Scripture testimouios have been given, and corresponding remarks otlered, in order the more fully to prepare and direct the reader's mind, regarding the personal dischsarrs which will now be submitted. As the tirst instance in my experience, of any consciousness of sin aud feeling of guilt, I may mention, that when 1 was a child of about live or six years, I was alone in a retired j)lace, i'ngaged in making some toy or article for anmscnuuit, and either injured my hand with the knife I was 160 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. using, or marr'd the work, and in a sudden impulse of vexation and annoyance, I cast down the knife, if I recollect rightly, and uttered some very profane expression. Immediately I was struck with alarm, or even horror, at the wicked exclamation, and stood silent and astounded with conscious guilt. Whether this proceeded from a direct divine operation, or was only the result of the powerful action of that natural conscience which all possess, it is impossible for me to say ; but the effects on me at the time were most rcmiirkably solemn and impressive, and very often has the whole occurrence been brought to my mind, in connection with thoughts on my religious ex- perience. I remcml)er nothing else having any relation to that experience, until 1 was about 15 years ot age, and while attending the public Grammar School in Halifax. I was boarded in a private family, the members of which were not particularly regardful of religious exercises or duty, but were moral and well- behaved [)ers<)ns in the ordinary meaning and accep- tation of the terms. From the commencement of this period, 1 was very diligent in my literary stu- dies, and exercises, and conseciuently made rather rapid progress ; but for a time was as unconcerned, us youth in general, regarding religion. As well as I can remember, I statedly attended some place of worship on the Sabbath ; but cannot say that from any sermon, or other public religious ministration, I experienced any fecial awakening or concern res- pecting my spiritual interests. Some five or six months after the commencement of this period, and without any special moving cause, or occurrence, that 1 can assign, or even conjecture, 1 became deeply and most distressingly convinced of my native guilty condition, and of my actual sins aiul transgressions, and consetjuent exposure to Divine wrath and punishment, in a future state. I Heligious experience. 161 impulse knife, if profane L alarm, id stood V^hether I, or was ; natural 3 for me re most vy often ly mind, ious ex- ation to ot age, ohool in lily, the u'dful of nd wcll- d accep- ment of ary stu- rather iicerned, ; well as place of lat from ration, I ern res- nccment \>c over encouraged by the following, among many similar passages of the gracious and unchangeable word: — "Wait on the Lord, be of ^' ,!;;: 174 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. i good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart ;*' " though He cause grief, He will have compassion, according to the multitude of His mercies ;" — ** He will make darkness light before them;" — "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins ;" — and will " give beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness." (Ps. 27. — Sam. 3. — Isaiah 42.— 1 John 1.— Is. 61.) And now, I must offer some observations, and cite some Scripture authorities, to show that the severe distresses ; the extraordinary spiritual manifesta- tions ; the gracious deliverances ; and the sudden exchange of burden and anguish of spirit, for joy and love, and peace, described as my own experience on the occasions mentiored, are, not only, not attril)utable to any delusion or fanaticism, but are all consistent, and in perfect harmony, with the experience of many of the people of the Lord, as described in Scripture ; and in various ages, under each dispensation of religion. Every true and intelligent Christian will firmly believe that the Divine Saviour, who possesses all power throughout the universe ; and to whom all things are known, can, if He i)]ouscs, apply His precious word to the sentient and ■moniJ spirit of man, in the special and consoling manner I have related, as my jx^sonal exi)erience ; or manifest His mercy in any other way, which, in condescension He may be pleased to adopt, for the support and comfort of those, who, in seasons of distress, are anxiously, and importunately seeking to obtain a conscious sense of His pardoning grace. Through the more than 40 years since ; and often amidst sj)iritiidl darkness and disquietude, temi)tations and trials, I have ever remained so j)erfectly convinced of the nature and realiti/ of the who' ^ of that spiritual cxi)erience, that if all, throughout the world, who RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 175 e heart;'* upassion, ;"— " He -" If we brgive us !S, the oil praise for ». — Isaiah 3, and cite lie severe nanifesta- e sudden t, for joy xperience m\y, not I, but are with the Lord, as 3S, under ill firmly jcsscs all ^vliom all pply Ilis spirit of r I have ilfost His union lie I conifoit iixiously, x)nscious the more spiritual trials, I d of the spiritual ►rid, who profess Christianity, were to become apostates^ it would not, in the slightest degree, disturb or weaken that conviction ; or my belief in that Divine Saviour, or of His presence in the heavens, in His glorified body, or of the inspired truth of the Scriptures. These divine records, both of the Old and New Testament, abound with declarations and descrip- tions of the inward exercises of the Lord's spiritual people, in all the varities of the distressing burden of sin, and of the alternations of fear and hope; as well as of seasons of joyous deliverance, and sensible manifestations of divine support and conso- lation, and of love and peace. In the Psalms, especially, we find all the particulars and stages of that experience, from the lowest depths, and all degrees of spiritual distress and darkness ; and, at times, of almost utter despair ; and through all the variations of fear and hope, into a state of conscious deliverance, and the enjoyment of the tokens of divine forgiveness, and of that " perfect love which casteth out fear." In those precious portions of insi)ired truth, we hoar the earnest and anxious seeker of salvation, at one time, orving out, in anguish of si)irit, "Mine iulquities have tak ; hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up ; tacy are more in number than tljc hairs of mine herd, there- tore my heart faileth me ;" — "As an he ••y burden, tliev are too heavy for me;" — "The* sorrowf of death e()m})ass('d me ;" — " Thine arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand ju'csseth me sore ; — "Thy terrors have cut me otl';" — " I com])lained, and iiiy spirit wm overwhelmed ;" — "Out of the depths have I cried unto Thee O Lord ;" — " Hring n.y soul out of prison, that I may praise thy name." Yet, soon, \\v luar him saying : — " Why art thou cast down () my soul, and why art thou disquieted within me ; h()|)e thou in God, for I shall yet praise Iliui who is the health of my countenance, and my God;" — " I will lift ui) 176 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help ; my help cometh from the Lord, who made heaven and earth;" — "He will not always chide, nor keep his anger forever;" but " will regard the prayer of the destitute, and not despise their prayer ;" — " Thou which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth." And his hope and cry have not been in vain, for next, we find him rejoicing in the removal of the burden of guilt and sorrow, and sa} ing : — "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning ;" — " I sought the Lord and he heard me, and deliv- ered me from all my fears :" — " He despiseth not his prisoners," but " iilleth the hungry soul with His goodness;" — "Thou hast delivered my soul from death, mine eyes from tears, and my feet from fall- ing," and " hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God;" — "O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee forever," (Psalms 40, 38 ; 11(),3H; ^.S, 77; 130,142; 42,121; 103,102; 71, 30; 34, <;i); 107, IKI; 40, 30.) There is not the least intimation, in any part of Scripture, that such sijiiitual exercises as these, were to be Umifed to the pt'inutlvc believers, under any one of the dispensa- tions of the true religion ; or to the church of God of any particular (ujc or time; nor have X\\ey been so limited ; but they have, in varied degrees, aliraf/s been the common experience, of all the genuine jx'ople of the J^ord. It has etrr ])cen, and during this state of j)robation, Avill confinite to be, their allotment or heritage, to meet and endure tribulation, for the Loi'd has said of them, that He " will bring them through the tire ; and reiine tlu'ni as silver is relined, and try them as gold is tried;" and will "chasten " them " for their protit," Hhat they may be " partakers of His holiness." If penitent for their sins and follies, and n'turning in faith and obedience, neth my 10 made s chide, gard the ^e their reat and lit bring ." And next, we urden of iig may Drniug ;" id deliv- h not his vith His ul from rom fall- th, even d, I will 40, 38 ; 02; 71, not the Kit such (l to the ispensa- of (iod ley been , alirays irenuine 1 < hi ring , their tulation, ill brnig silver is imd will may be 'or their Bdienco, RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 177 to Him from whom they have wandered, they may be encom*aged, and enabled to say, in the words of the inspired prophet of old : — " Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy, when I fall I shall rise ; when I sit in darkness, the Lord shall be a light unto me. I will bear the indignation of the Lord, becansc I have sinned against Him, until He plead my cause, and execute judgment for me ; He will bring nio forth to the light, and I shall behold His righteous- ness." The Lord will, indeed, ever be merciful to all true believing penitents, Avho thus confess and deplore their oifences, luul earnestly seek His forgiveness, for "He waiteth to be gracious;" and " forg-etteth not the cry of the huml)le," but will deliver the afflicted, and " save the soul of the needy," and lift upon it again, " the light of his countenance." Thousands after thousands, in evevi/ age^ have had such experience, both of s})iritMal distress and desertion throufih shi; and of restora- tion to conscious forgiveness and peace, lint all such know, thsit it is, indeed, an evil and bitter thing to forsnke the Lord, by walking in vain and for- bidden ways. They are sure to iind, that, " the wav of transi»:ress()rs is hard." Let them evt'r remember the " wormwood" and the " gall" of the consequent S/tf'rifnfd ffeirareuifufs, jind let all other believers, also, be warned, by such mournt'Ml exj)erience, and ever Ix* watchful ;iung the street, I was assaulted with such a torrent of I hose wicked and horrifying suggestions, that I felt as if bewildered and stupitied by them ; and 1115 aediately hastened to my house, and there poured <>a» fervent supplications to the Lord, and found the Uv "' ?v;d deliverance. At the close of the long period I have mentioned, these fierce and distressing assaults and temptations entirely ceased ; and I have never since experienced any return of them. I tliink I can truly say, that during the long period which has elapsed, since I first set out, as already described, to seek a sense of i)ardoning mercy, and the other blessings of the great salva- tion, I have never, through divine grace, felt any intlination or even temptation, to commit any of the more yro.s.s' open vices or inunondifies, or indulged in practices, plainly inconsistent with Christian integ- rity and ri<»:lite()nsncsp. Mv greatest, and almost only .v/;w/oul»;os, have arisen from a natural tcndcMicy to an/ *r and rashiu -5 of expression un(\u' provocation, and also in contending against the common and distressing sin of unbeliefs in some of its varions forms ; and in fighting " the good fight of faithy^ and maintaining hope as divinely encou- raged and connnanded. Never have I actually despaired of mercy, but have often passed through Christian lark and bis " Pil- it it was distress- startled, ed to see stiaa, in- ning it, I r succour available e passing a torrent us, that I em ; and •e poured tbiuid the [ig period Z assaults ive never the long t out, as ardoning at salva- felt any iiy of the ulgcd in in iiiteg- alniost I from a q)ression against in some God liglit V cncou- aetually through RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 179 seasons of darkness and rather deep anxiety and depression, but never have ceased from earnest and constant private prayer daily ^ at stated times ; and as constantly have searched into the sacred oracles, and meditated thereon ; as well as attended on the other usual religious means. In so acting, often and often, have I found gracious relief and encourage- ment : and through the divine mercy and power, have hitherto been kept by faith, in desiring and seeking the blessings of that full salvation and holiness, the Lord has promised ; and without which, none can be permitted to enter his eternal kingdom of glory and happiness. I can trul}'' say, from the light of inspired truth, and long and deep personal experience, that I have no thought or hope of attain- ing to that blissful state, but from the mercy of my God and Father, through the atoning sacrifice and merits of that Divine and compassionate Redeemer, *' who loved me, and gave Himself for me." I adore and bless Him, that He has borne with me as He has hitherto done. He has delivered me in six troubles, and in seven has not forsaken me ; and seeing the numerous and gracious promises given in His infallible word, and remembering all His past mercies and deliverances, I will still look unto Him, and expect from Him, every needed blessing, and shall hope to see Him with acceptance, in His glori- ous and eternal Kingdom ; and unite with all the ransomed Host, in forever celebrating His love and faithfulness. In one part of the preceding relation of my religious cxi)eriencc, I mentioned travelling on the Sal)bath, as one of the evil ways I altogether abandoned, on my being divinely led, earnestly to seek personal salvation. I can truly say, that during the 4(5 years since that time, I have nevier travelled the smallest distance, on that sacred day, in the i)r<)secuti()n of any worldly or secular emplov- H^^ *"^,*'iK I*' Si 180 BELIOIOtJS EXPERIENCE. 1«; 'k' ment ; and on but few occasions, even for only a few miles, to attend public worship, or to assist in its celebration. In the later years of my travelling as a barrister, in circuit practice ; and throughout the 18 years of performance of judicial duties ; and also during nearly 20 years ensuing, when travelling and lecturing on the Temperance subject, — and often, in all those several periods, under many impedi- ments and difficulties, I have, by a favouring Providence, on the six other days of the week, been enabled adequately to fulfil, all the duties and appointments of those several situations and employ- ments. Several of the places where I attended the Circuit Courts, as a barrister, were from tbrty to upwards of sixty miles apart ; and as the courts met at the several places, on the Tuesday of each week, in succession ; and frequently, my engagements con- nected with each term, were not completed until late on Saturday, I was much pressed for time to secure a sufficiently early attendance to my professional employments, at the term in the next county, but I was always enabled to effect it without travelling on the Sabbath. It may, probably, be useful to some, to give here, a few instances in my experience, to show, that by prudent forethought and arrangements, all secular affairs may be safely and fully performed, during the six days divinely appointed for transacting them. The first instance I may mention, ot any special description, occurred while in practice as a barrister, and as well as 1 recollect, in or about the year 1821, I had attended the sitting of the Supreme Court, at Sydney, in the Island of d pe Breton, and left there on Saturday morning, the day after the court closed, in company with the Judges, and brethren of the Bar, on our journey to Arichat, the town where the court was next to be held, distant upwards of sixty miles. We proceeded together that day, about 50 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 181 miles, and halted as the night was closing in. We were then about twelve miles from that county-town, by one route, — ^half of it by water, — and nearly double that distance in another direction. As I had professional duties to engage me at that approaching tenn, I concluded to reach the town that Saturday night, if possible, so as to have the whole of the Monday following, to make all requisite arrange- ments, and be duly prepared, when the court should open the day following. Accordingly, without mentioning that intention to any of my travelling companions, I went around the place at which we arrived, to find a boat and men to carry me over the six miles of water, but did not succeed. At last I came to an Indian camp, and procured two of its inmates to perform the service, with their bark canoe. After one of them had shouldered his vessel across a narrow portage, the three of us embarked, and although the passage was on the open ocean, as it was a calm and moonlight night, we passed over without any difficulty. It was indeed so bright, that to the best of my recollection, while on the way, I read in my pocket Bible. Immediately on landing I procured a guide, and as well as I can remember, proceeded on foot the six miles to the town, thus completing the day's journey of upwards of sixty miles. After some refreshment, I was comfortably in bed, in the inn, though at a late hour of the night. I spent the Sabbath there, quietly, in rest and religi- ous exercises ; and had the entire Monday to make all needful preparations and arrangements, for my professional engagements at the court. On the arrival of my travelling companions, I was informed, that on the day after my leaving them, the enquiry went round among them, " what has become of Marshall," and in \\d way could they account for my sudden and unexpected disappearance. How they spent their Sabbath, I cannot say ; but I know well, 182 RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 1^ ■r ■ 1 tT that their situation was much less favourable than mine, in regard to religioiis means and duties. The next marked instance of the like description, occurred either in the same, or the following year. The court had closed, at the place lastmentiened, on Friday evening, and was to open at a town distant, again, upwards of sixty miles, by the usual route, and on which there were two rather extensive ferries to be crossed. Another way of getting there, was, by a packet for a!)out twenty miles, and the remaind- er of the distance, — thirty-two miles — by land, over a fair road. The packet, as usual, sailed in the forenoon of Saturday, from the town where the court closed, for the port at the termination of the 20 miles. Having fully adjusted and completed all my professional biisiness of the term, I took passage in the packet, and was comfortably conveyed to the end of the trip, in the course of the afternoon. Here was a county-town, where protestant public worship was regularly performed ; and here I re- mained among some of my relatives and friends, over the Sabbatb, and attended that worship, and to other religious (duties. On the Monday I rode to the town where the court was to be opened the next day, and found ample time, as before, to make all the requisite pr:'])arations, relating to my professional engagements fo?' the term. Now, let us "iew some of the particulars of the situation and proceedings of those of the court party, whom I left on the Saturday, as already mentioned. They might have set out on that day, by the same route which I took, and thus could have rested, and attended worship on the Sabbath, and have comfortably reached, early in the afternoon of Monday, — as I did, — the place of holding the ensu- ing term. As well as I can remember what some of them told me, they did not set out from the town where I left them, until the Sabbath ; but even if RELIGIOUS EXPERIENCE. 183 ourable than duties. i description, Uowing year. nentieiiecU on town distant, usual route, 3nsive ferries ^ there, was, tlie remaind- >y land, over lailed in the I where the lation of the ompleted all took passage veyed to the 3 afternoon. stant public here I re- and friends, ship, and to y I rode to led the next to make all professional ulars of the jourt party, mentioned. iy» by the lave rested, and have ternoon of g the ensu- lat some of n the town but even if thej" romained, no protestant public worship wna 'leld there. They chose the first mentioned route of over sixty miles ; and certainly some, if not all of them, travelled a part, or the wh^le of the Sabbath. After encountering many obstructions, and cross-occurrences, as to boats, horses, &c., it was late in the afternoon of Tuesday, when only one of the Judges arrived in town, jaded and annoijed, just in time to open the court, and have all tho requisite formalities observed, and thus -'nje the tenti. Even if they had started on the .'•uturday, by this route, they might have rested on t ,<^ -^;il)))ath, and have easily completed their journ >n tho Monday. The next instance of a like kind, which I shall relate, occurred while I held the judicial office. The courts in which I presided, met in the three county- towns of the Island, on the Tuesday of each w.eek, in succession, early in the spring and late in the autumn, when the roads were bad, and there were other impediments and discomforts in travelling. The towns were about GO miles apart, and frequently, the business of the term was not finished until tho Saturday evening ; and my duties as presiding Judge, required me to remain until all matters were arranged and completed. Consequently, in all such instances, I had only the Monday, and the morning of Tuesday to get over the sixty miles, under all difficulties, — never in a carriage of any kind, — l)ut at times partly in boats, or Indian bark canoes, and partly on horseback, and at other times, all the distance by the latter mode. It may, therefore, bo readily concluded, that I was often hard pressed to gain a county town, and open the court, and fulfil all the requisite duties on the Tuesday, but I never failed to accomplish it, during the jvhole of tho eighteen years I held the office, except in one in- stance ; and never did I move the least distance on the ia^ "^a> IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) // . ^O ^ ■' -si-' Sabbath. In that solitary instance alluded to, either from sickness, or other unavoidable cause, I was prevented from reaching the county-town on the Tuesday, but no serious public inconvenience* was experienced, as the assistant justices opened the court that day, and attended to all the requisite early / proceedings, and I arrived in due time, to officiate ** as usual, in all the cases tried, and in the other matters for disposal, during the remainder of the term. " Now, to turn to the further instance I have pro- posed to relate, regarding travelling on the Sabbath, the following are its chief particulars : — ^The court had closed at one of the county-towns, late on Satur- day evening, and I was engaged until near midnight, taxing costs and signing judgments. The ensuing SaWwith was a beautiful day, and some, if not all of the barristers who attended the circuit, set off on that duy, for the county-town about 60 miles distant, where the court was to open on the following Tuesday morning. I remained, as usual, and attended public worship. During the ensuing night, a heavy storm of wind and snow commenced. I rose from bed some time before day , and after taking sonu^ refreshment, mounted my horse at early light, and set off through the storm, which was partly in iny face the first seven miles. This distance termi- nutod ill rather a wide ferry, which, as the wind then blew, \v.'i8 exposed to the ocean waves. It was jn