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STATED FREACHEB -■■" ■ ' ■ . ,^..^ ,f^^^- ^*si>. TW^ :^*^:^fr^- ?^»^, ^.,5-if»N. ... -^''■' WHO DEPARtED THIS LIFE, lANUAST iOai».18HL ••^ * BY ASHBEL GREEN, D. D. KiBttfdtli: S. ANDRUS AND SON. 1843. ■!^3 E a ihi * DUtrkt ^ J P<»i i iai rfg , to nmit $••••« BE IT REMEMBERED, That on the fint tvt of Mar, in the • L. S.« ftfty'MCond tmut of the independence of the United States of $««mS America, A. I>. 1838, Jacob J. Jariwat, (in behalf of the execu- tors ^tne Rer. Joseph Eastborn) of the said district, has deposited in this olBce the title of a Bod^ the rigm whereof they claim as Proprietors, in the words fUlowinf, to wit : \ , •( Mamsir of &• lllv. J sesa h SaptbiinL (tfaled Poacher in the Mariner's Chth, Phiads^hiat wjg&nrted mU^hmmn^f^ySIV^ ByAshbel Chreen, D. D.** In ConfbrmitT to the Act of the Congress of the United States, cortitled, ** An Act fbr tne enconrafBiB«nt of Learmn*, by seearing thtf copies of Maps, C%arts, and Books, to the Authors and Piroprietors of iach copies dortnf the times therein mentioned.** And also to the Act entitled, '* An Act sapplementarjr to an Act, entitled * An Act for the Encouragement of Learning, by securing the copies of Maps, Charts, and Books, to the Authors and Proprietors of such copies, during the times therein mentioned,* and •ztMiding the benefts thereof to the arte of designing, engraving, and etch- ing, historical and other Prints.** D. CALDWELL, CforJfcit/'l&s EttiUm Distrid qf PmnsylvatUa. (jl^ One half of the profits arising from the publication of this book, is to be appropriated to the use of the Mariners Church of Philadelphia. i»- -£>-*-" *--*? ->'«14 «-^ .' To the founders and supporters of the Mariner^s Church in the city of Philadelphia; To the Rev. Alfred H. Dashiell, who statedly ministers in that church; And to the mariners and their families who attend on public worship there, — These Memoirs of a man who was exceedingly and deservedly dear to them all, are most respectfully and affectionately inscribed, by THE AUTHOR. V Ji M\mT.\h :mt if CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. HIb Parentage, Education, and first Roligioua Exercwes • CHAPTER n. Remarks on Mr. Eastbam's narrative— his marriage and the character of his wife— his exile from and retnm to Pfaila<> delphia — his bearing arms — his son — ^is refused to be taken on trials for the gospel ministry, by the Synod of New- York and Philadelphia— his rebaptizatipn CHAPTER HI. Mr. Eastbum enters into partnership-Hsbaracter of his part* ner — situation of his workshop, and ccmversations in it— his long and unabated struggle with adverse worldly cir- cumstances—his conduct and Bufferings in several aeastms of pestilence— his kind attentions t> the afflicted fiimily of Dr. Sprout^-the way providentiatty opened ibr his de- liverance from worldly embarrassment, and for his becom- ing a religious teacher — ^plan for his services in the Northern Liberties oi Philadelphia^-^ departs frrom that plan, and remarks on the subject CHAPTER IV. Unhappy consequences of Mr. Eastbum's acting as a cate- chist and ezhorter without a regular designation; the manner in which the evil was arrested; Mr. E.'b examip nation and qualified licensure by the Presb3^ry of Phila- delphia A 2 /^ U 36 3$ [! ri CONTENTS. CHAPTER V. Pag* His license entirely satisfkctory to himself— his fidelity and Buccesfl in the Hospital, Aims-House, and Prison of Phila- delphia — his labors, various and incessant, and acceptable to difierent denominations — ^he is principally instrumental in forming a congregations-death of his wife, and entire relinquishmeBt of his mechanical business 4d CHAPTER VI. Continuesto preach to the 8ailovB,aiid inyarious other places — sickness and death 76 CHAPTER VII. Miscellaneous particulars and remarks — Conclusion . . .107 ^ FIRST APPENDIX. Letters . , 129 Narratives and Anecdotes, extracted from Mr. Eastbum's Manuscripts 164 Mr. Eastbum's Will 177 SECOND APPENDIX. A Faitblbl Narrative of the many Dangers and Sufferings, as well as wonderAil iJeKverances, of Robert Eastbum, during his kte Captivity among the Indians 181 ♦ fait :aKjil*- -^^.^.-"-^ - :;^--ri^:^ *s-jrhx>4x!} Ui^;^,:-^ MEMOIRS Of THI iBXT« 9ii m^aiwMims, • • 129 (urn's • • 164 • • 177 w«»i >uni. • • 181 CHAPTER I. His Parentage, Ediication, and first Religious Exercises, The name and virtues of Joseph Eastburn, have probably been already celebrated in the four quarters of the globe. The last ten years of his life were so disin- terestedly, assiduously, and affectionately, devoted to all the best interests of seamen, that a large number of them regarded him with the veneration and attachment which dutiful children bear to a worthy parent ; and with their characteristic warmth of feeling, tnere is little reason to doubt that they have proclaimed his praise, in every region to which their vocation hai caued them. Not only in many of the sea-ports of our own continent, but on the coasts of Asia and Africa, and in various parts of Europe, we may believe that they have extolled his piety, commended his benevolence, and exhibited him as an example. In Britain especially, the religious journals which are occupied with the concerns of mariners, give abundant evidence of the high estimation in which he was held in that country. But the best evidence of a man^s real character is de- rived from the public sentiment, in the place of his stated residence, and where of course he is most fully known. Of this sentiment there was a striking expression, in re- ference to Mr. Eastburn, when his obsequies were solemn- ized, in the city wiiere he was bom, and where he had lived till he had entered his eightieth year. More than five thousand persons, it is believed, came to see, and many of them to weep over, his remains, before the 2 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBUUN. coffin was closed upon Ihem. And although his funeral was of the plainest kind, without gloves, scarfs, pall, or hearse ; and although a copious fall of rain descended without intermission, while the procession was moving from his residence to the place of interment ; yet a mul- titude of all characters, from the highest to the lowest, and of all ages, and both sexes, produced such a throng, through five squares of the city, that it was frequenttv necessary to stop, till an opening could be made through the crowd for the passage of the corpse. The feeling of respect for the deceased, manifested on that occasion, taken in all its circumstances, was certainly of a very sin- gular and most extraordinary character. And how, it may be asked, was this celebrity and affec- tionate attachment obtained? Was it acquired by an illus- trious parentage, by splendid genius, by great talents, by distinguished erudition, or by munificent donatives ? No- thing, not an iota, of all this. The individual concerned was of humble binth, he had no pretensions to genius, no eminence of intellectual powers or attainments, little learning, and but a scanty property. The whole must be attributed to simple, genuine, consistent, fervent, ac- tive, eminent piety. Of the influence and esteem which such a piety may secure to its possessor, by manifesting itself in all the ^orms in which it will, without seeking or expecting such an effect, become conspicuous, Mr. East- burn was one of the most striking instances that the world has ever seen. To show what such a piety may effect, is a principal object of the present memoir ; and what it has effected, has therefore been summarily stated at the entrance ; that the whole of the subsequent narrative may illustrate and impress a fact, honourable to religion, and calculated to promote its influence and extension. Autobiography, or a man^s life written by himself, has become fashionable; and doubtless it has some advan- tages. An individual is not only able, but permitted, to say of himself, a number of things which no one else could, or ought, to say of him. Till the writer of this memoir had engaged to draw it up, he did not know or suspect that the subject of it had penned an account of the first part of his own life. It was however a very MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURM. 9 agreeable surprise when he found that this had been done ; and as soon as the papier was perused, the resohi- tion was taken to insert it, without the addition or sup- pression of a single thought, and with as little alteration as possible of the language. If the fastidious should cen- sure him for this, he is willing to bear it He believei that if he had new cast the whole, he would not have been able to present a view of Mr. Eastbum^s earlj life, aiid especially of his first religious exercises, nearly so interesting or so useful to the pious reader, as that which he will now find. It was desirable, besides, to show, as far as practicable, this excellent man precisely- attch at he toas; and this was partly to be done by letting the reader see how he spoke of himself, and in what manner he ex- pressed his tnouehts in writing. He wa8,innofe8pect, an imitator ; but he seems to have read the works of the inimitable John Bnnyan, till he had unknowingly caught something of his manner. His narrative is as follows: ** At the pressing request of some of my religioiis friends that I should give some account of my life and religious experience, it is with reluctance I now make an attempt to comply — truly willing that my name should be buried with my body, as to the opinion of my feHow-men ; for I do know and feel that in all things I have come short *^ As to my parentage, my father, Robert Eastburn,* came from old England when quite young, of a strict Quaker family, and continued for some time in that con- nexion, and was married in their public meeting, in their way. My mother also belonged to the same denomina- * A memorandum found among Mr. Eastbum's papers, fumiihet the following information : Robert Eastburn was born in Old England, in the year 1710. H* came to America with his parents, when he was four years old. He was married in the year 1733, to Agnes Jones of Germantown. She was bom in the year 1713. — Robert Eastburn died Jan. 3Sd, 1778; his wife, Sept. 27th, 1784. They had six children — Sarah, Hannah, Thomas, Robert, John, and Joseph. Sarah lived to the age of 83 years, and died in Sept. 1818. Hannah died in 1773. Thomas in 1802. Robert in 1815. John in 1806. — We here add, Joseph died on the 30th of January, 1828,— having entered his 80th year on the 11th of the preceding August. # MEMOmS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. tion, and continued in their society until Mr. Geoi^e - Whitfield first came to America. My father had been under serious concern about his soul for some time be- fore ; but could get no relief, until hearing him preach. He went, as he said, with prejudice, to hear a young priest, but found he had been taught of the Lord, and could tell him the exercises of his heart ; and his heart was now opened to attend to the preaching of the gospel by him, and this was the means of his spiritual comfort — Mr. Whitfield used to call him his first fruit in America. My mother, being of a meek and humble temper, and seriously disposed, and being also benefited by his preach- ing, left the Quakers and united with my father to follow him ; which soon brought upon them severe trials from their parents and tlieir former friends, which I do not . , wish to enumerate. Many of the followers of Mr. Whit- field united together, and erected a large building for worship, (now ^^old academy,) and by his advice called ^the Rev. Gilbert Tennant to be their stated minister, and became a regular congregation. My father was chosen deacon, and was very active in promoting the interest of the society, and in attending religious meetings in many . places through the city. 1 was born, according to the date in my father^s Bible, on the eleventh day of August, 1748, in Philadelphia, the youngest of his diildren; and experienced the tender care of my kind parents, and the watchful providence of my heavenly Father. When an infant in my cradle, a cat had nearly drawn out my breath, when she was caught by my father, and just saved my life. Wlieu be- ginning to walk, 1 had followed my brother to the river, and fell in and narrowly escaped being drowned. I was early put to school, and had serious impressions on my mind when young; so that 1 would retire from school and go to the garret of the house alone to pray, and would weep freely. My parents iinding me at times soriou-;, and like to make a scholar, were desirous that 1 might have an education; hoping I might be useful to my fellow- men in the work of tin; ministry. But it was a time of war, and my father having been a prisoner among the Indians, brought their circumstances too low to atlbrd me MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 6 more than a common English education. At fourteen years of age I was put apprentice to the cabinet-maker^i business, in a lai^e shcp of seventeen lads and young men — all thoughtless about eternal concerns, and making the sabbath a day of idle amusement. I was tempted to go with them to skate on the Schuylkill ; but had not gone far before my conscience so accused me of doing wrong, that I left them, ran back, hid my skates, and went to meeting. Thus I was an evidence of the truth of those words, ^ Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it^ I now quieted my conscience, and thought, by my regular conduct, praying in secret, and shedding a few tears at times, I should do well enough. But *• evil communica> tions corrupt good manners.^ I was by degrees drawn into vain company. I had committed many trifling, jovial songs to memory, and having something of a turn for singing, I was often pressed to sing in company. I found I was going fast to ruin, and that a horrid snare was laid for my destruction ; but the Lord was pleased to pluck me as a brand from the burning, and through his blessed restraints I was preserved from all scandalous outbreak- ing sins. " I was now awfully alarmed with a view of eternity and the danger of losing my soul, which determined me to leave all vain company, and try afresh to seek salvar tion. But I found it hard to gtand their solicitations, and afterwards their persecution ; for they would come with great pretensions of friendship, and beg I would not leave them, or deprive myself of all the happiness of youthful pleasure ; for Solomon, they told me, had said, there ^was a time for all things*,^ and the time to be merry certainly was, when we were young ; and they said I eould not pretend to be more holy than David* and he danced. My reply was, that we had been merry, but as we did not know how soon death might call us, as he did many as young as we, our time to mourn might soon begin, and never end ; and I thought it high time for us all to cry for mercy, before it was too late. What made my alarm so great and lasting was, the views I now had of eternity, from one of Mr. Davis 's Sermons. These r ^' t C MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. words were fixed in my mind, *Oh! Eternity, Eternity! how will this awful sound echo through the vaults of hell !* — It was upon my mind day and night. I thought if I could live as long as Methuselah, and be in as much misery as it was possible to bear, all the time, I would be willing to bear it, if I could have hope of happiness afterward. Finding they could not persuade me to re- turn to them, they turned to be cruel persecutors, mock- ing and treating me with contempt : and if they found my place of retirement, they would be sure to disturb me, throwing stones where they only suspected I might be. For a long time I used to rise at midnight, when they were asleep, and spend the time in prayer for mercy. One of them happening to hear me, was so much affected, be could not conceal bis cries ; and said, if I was afraid of going to hell, what would become of him and the rest of them. From f^at time he ceased his opposition, and became my friend till his death. But I had severe oppo- sition, from A man in the shop, who had made a profes- tion and turned back, and afterwards died in a bad way. ** I had at this time no religious acquaintance, for my father had moved from the city to Neshaminy. I attend* ed worship on sabbath days, and every opportunity I could have, with great care. I worked hard, and was trying to gain a righteousness of my own. Having done overwork in my trade, I had gained a day clear, which I devoted to fasting and prayer alone. About this time I received a letter from a brother in New- York, in which he informed me he had been under soul-concern for some short time, and had obtained comfort. I thought he had not been so long nor so much engaged as I had been, and yet I had not the least comfort. I then began to think the Lord dealt hard with me, and I was displeased with his sovereient}'. The ninth chapter of the Romans filled me with discouragement — that it was '• not of him that willeth, or of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy.' I feared I was not elected, and therefore would be lost afler all. I went to the Episcopal Church, and when they read prayers and thanked God for their crea- tion, my heart replied, I do not} for I wished I had never been bom, and ohen wished I was a brute, a stock, or a MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 7 stone, rather than an accountable creature. I envied the \little birds their happiness. I found fault with the impu- \tation of Adam^s sin, and that through his fall we were rendered helpless and yet condemned. My wicked heart rose in horrid rebellion, and would wish there was no power that could punish me in hell for ever. I continued a long time in this awful state of mind, and found truly that * the carnal mind is indeed enmity against God.* I thought I had the very spirit of Satan, and began to won- der that the Lord did not strike me dead, and fix my place among the fiends in hell, for my dreadful rebellion against his awful majesty. And I did expect that must be the case at last, for I thought so vile a creature as I saw myself to be, could never be admitted into his pres- ence ; and often have 1 feared to close my eyes in sleep, fearing I should awake in torment. *^ About this time my father returned to the city; but I could not lor a long time open my mind to him ; but he, observing my distressed countenance, insisted upon know- ing what was my trouble. I then made it known to him, and he did all he could to encourage me. He took me to see pious ministers ; a Mr. Strain was often in town at that time, to whom I made my case known. He gave the advice Paul gave to the jailer, and pressed me to be* lieve in the Lord Jesus Christ, immediately ; warning me against false resting-places, and insisted upon it I was now doing so, and said while I hoped to be saved in any other way but through Jesus, I was practically calling God a liar, who declared there was no other way. That evening a strange minister preached upon the sin of un- belief. I determined then that I would never close my eyes in sleep again, until 1 had made the attempt; and I spent the night in a solitary place alone, trying to realize my need of a Saviour, as a guilty, polluted, lost sinner ; and then thinking of the offices, fulness, and invitations of the Saviour — ^trying to give up myself to him, and pray- ing to be accepted by him, but I could find no relief. I thought 1 could as easily clasp the moon with my hands, which was then shining over my head, as I could believe so as to obtain comfort to my soul ; not realizing that faith was the gift of God. I wondered that ministert B 8 MEMOIRS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. . t ! ^'■- would press people to do what was impossible ; or thought that I was not like any one else, for I could not believe. Here my carnal heart again began to find iault, that I was required to do what I could not; and therefore must bfe lost and could not help it. But my rebellious murmuring was silenced with a thought of who it was I was thus censuring ; and I began to wonder he did not strike me dead, and send me to dwell among the wicked spirits in hell, which I often thought must finally be my place. But now that passage in the 9th of Romans came again to my mind, in quite a different way from what I took it up before — *' It is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that showeth mercy,' was now my only encouragement. For if it was for any goodness or merit in the creature, I of all mankind must, it seemed to me, for ever despair ; for I could deserve no favor from the Lord. But if he did it for his own mercy's sake, who could tell but I might yet experience his power to save me ? and therefore I again resolved I would try to wait in the use of means, and not give over until he might please to reveal the way of salvation to me, a lost creature. " I now took much care to get spiritual instruction, tried to remember the sermons I heard, wrote down the texts, and what I could retain of them ; but still found myself awfully stupid, and felt all to be a task and burdensome; yet I thought I must wait until the Spirit of the Lord would come powerfully, and then would be my time to strive. My apprenticeship was now expiring, and the man with whom I learned my trade, through improper conduct, had become bankrupt. I had a new place to seek, and the kind notice of Providence surprised me. I had friends raised up beyond my expectation. My mas- ter's brother presented me with a complete good suit of clothes ; a place was provided for me to earn my living; I was favored with health and plenty of business, and could work well. I wondered that the Lord should re- gard my mean concerns, and show me any favor ; and as he had taken care of my temporal concerns, I thought it was an encouragement for me to cast my soul's con- cerns upon him. But my wicked unbelieving heart would MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURJJ. 9 not go to that kind and gracious Father, who was mani- festing his tender pity for such a poor wretch as I was. Instead of this, my unbelief still increased, and the abom- inable corruptions of my vile, sinful nature, seemed as if they would overpower all my resolutions to do any thing that was good. I confined myself to attend on the means of grace in public, and also attended society meetings, but found no pleasure in them ; but awful hardness of heart, and vile thoughts, would continually possess me. I thought there never was so hardened and yet stupid creature, as 1 was, which made me conclude the Lord had given me up ; tliat I had so grieved the Holy Spirit that he would no longer strive with me ; and that I had sinned the unpardonable sin, and there could be no mercy for me. Now I ceased to pray, for I believed that the Lord would strike me dead, if I dared to call upon him. I therefore looked for his judgments to follow me ; and hardly dared to close my eyes in sleep, fearing I should awake in hell. I would dream I was there blaspheming, and awdke in horror, but dared not ask to be saved from it : and now, as I feared I should become a scandal to my parents and family, I resolved to keep alone, or to go to places of worship only to keep out of the way of tempt- ation ; not daring to hope ever to have a word of encour- agement spoken to me again. But I worked hard at my trade, to divert my mind, which I found was my best way. I said little to any one, and told no one of my dis- mal fears and horrors. I did once ask my father what he believed the unpardonable sin to be, without telling him my apprehension of my having committed it ; an^ his explanation seemed to confirm my belief that it was really my case. I still went to places of worship, and when any encouragement was presented to distressed souls, I would think — there now, I might have some re- lief, if I had not sinned that sin, which is unto death, and cannot be forgiven. But one sabbath evening, going to the Baptist meeting, a stranger of the name of Sutton preached, and remarked that some were tempted to be- lieve that they had sinned the unpardonable sin, and were greatly distressed about it ; which he declared was an evidence that it was not their case, or they would be r I 10 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. hardened and careless. This coming from one who I believed knew nothing ahout me, I did believe the Lord had directed it for me, and it greatly relieved my mind. I then resolved I would again betake myself to prayer, and if I perished, it should be at the throne of grace with the publican, crying as he did for mercy, and I was ena- bled to continue so to do, until at last, when just sinking, I was relieved ; which was in the following way : " I frequently had a word of encouragement in sermons from my precious friend Dr. Sproat, and from dear Mr. Robert Smith of Pequea, who pointed out my convictions to be those of the Spirit of the Lord, which were com- monly followed with manifestations of divine favor : also from several pious people, with whom I had now become acquainted, who were much interested in my case, and were, I believe, much engaged in prayer for me. But still my mind was overpowered with unbelief, until one sabbath mornipg, about the break of day. 1 was then thinking about mv miserable state of soul — ^guilty, filthy, wretched, and helpless, and that a Saviour was appointed, and Jesus was inviting me to come to him, and if I did, I should obtain relief. I found the hindrance was in my- self, and that none but the Lord could remove it. I then fell on my knees, crying to him to undertake for me. I tried to present all my wants to him, and besought him that whatever it was that hindered my closing with Jesus, he would remove it out of the way ; and that he would be pleased to work tnie faith in me, that I might believe. And while I was thus pouring out my heart to the Lord for his grace, that blessed counsel of the precious Saviour was powerfully impressed on my mind, contained in the third chapter of tiie Revelations and 18th verse — 'I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire that thou mayest be rich, and white raiment that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not ap- pear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve that thou mayest see.' Now a perfect suitableness appeared in this blessed provision to answer all my wants ; for I knew I was truly poor, and deep in debt to divine justice, and had nothing of my own to pay. But the white raiment was what I stood in particular need of, for I had often MEMOIRS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBVRN. 11 been filled with horror at the tliought of appearing a guilty, vile, filthy spirit, before the bar of a holy and just God ; but if arrayed in this glorious white raiment I might appear there to divine acceptance, and all my filthy gar- ments be cast away. The enlightening of the mind with this eye-salve of the Holy Spirit, was what I was likewise deeply sensible I greatly needed ; so that before I was aware of a change in my mind, my soul cried out — O Lord ! I accept this gracious counsel, and do bless thee for it. My heart was filled with comfort, and I could now call the Lord my dear father, and felt my very soul going out to him in love, wrhom before I had so much dreaded as my awful judge. I know not that any crea- ture heard me, in all or any of my private exercises, or how long I continued in this ; but when I came down to my father's family, with whom I then boarded, my father saw such a change in my countenance, that he directiv desired me to lead in family worship, which I felt a will- ingness to do. But I did not mention any thine to any one of my joy, but went to meeting with great pleasure ; when Mr. Caldwell, from Elizabethtown, preached from the 73d Psalm, first part of the 28th verse — * But it is good for me to draw nigh to God.^ He showed that no one could draw nigh to God, in the sense of that text, without having experienced a change of heart, and a true heart-love to him ; and then described how the soul was delighted with a sense of his gracious presence and fath- erly love ; and how it could call him my Father, I was fully satisfied that such had been the exercise of my soul that happy morning, and therefore did relate to my father what had passed in my mind. He then went with me to see Mr. Sproat, and desired me to relate the same to him, which I did, at their request. He inquired if I thought the Lord had shown me this favor for any goodness of my own ; which I protested I did not, but only of his pure, undeserved mercy. He then encouraged me to believe it was a work of divine grace, and now invited me to join in the communion of the church, which I never dared to do before, although often desired to do it. ** But mv first comfort was of short duration. I soon began to fear 1 was deceiving myself with false hopes; ^ B2 12 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. and that it had been but a mere imagination of my own. Here I was much cast down, and feared I never should have a soUd hope : and the loss of that comfort I bad enjoyed for the short time I felt it, left upon me for a few days a most distressing sensation. I told my friends my distress, but could find no relief. I tried to pray that the Lord would satis/y me whether it was his work or not ; and the cry of my heart was constantly through the day — for faith ! O for faith ! when I did again experience a sweet confirmation that it was the Lord's work, and that he would bless me ; and from time to time I had similar changes. I was very attentive to secret duty, and rose every morning before day, to read and pray alone, before 1 went to my work. At this time the Methodists came, and held worship before day, and in the evening. I often attended both seasons, and was pleased to have so many opportunities. But one evening the minister spoke against the doctrine o^ the saints' perseverance, from those words in the 10th chapter of 1st Corinthians, 4th and 5th verses, *And did all drink the same spiritual drink, for they drank of that spiritual rock that followed them, and that rock was Christ: but with many of them God was not well pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness.' From which he undertook to prove, that a person might be united to the Saviour and partake of his grace, and yet after this finally fall away. I thpught there appeared great reason from his text, and what he said upon it, to fear it might be so ; and therefore I was greatly discour- aged, for 1 knew what a poor helpless creature I was, and my enemies were too powerful for me to withstand, if left to myself. I lodged at my father's, and went home distressed; his family Bible was on the table; I imme* diately opened it, and the first passage 1 saw was the eighth chapter of Paul's Epistle to the Hebrews, at the 9th verse — ' Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers, in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt, because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord : For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel, after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in MEMOmS OF THS REV. JOSEPH EASTBVRN. IS their hearts, and I will he to them a God, and they shall he to me a people.* Here I stopped with joy, and was filled with deliffiht in that hlessed covenant, well ordered in all things and sure. I saw that the Lord not only en- gaged to be all in all to his people, but resolved that they should be his people, and that he would accomplish his work in them, and bring them through. This 1 believe is the sealing of the holv Spirit of promise ; and now my mind felt such a confidence in the unchanging love of God through Jesus Christ, in whom the promises are all * yea and amen,* that I thought if all the ministers in the world would unite in speaking against the perseverance of those who are united to Jesus, they could not shake my comfortable hope. I now no longer depended upon my frames and feehng for my hope of eternal happiness, Dut upon the unchangeable covenant of grace, wnerein the Lord has promised never to leave nor forsak« his people, and that he will put his fear in their hearts, and they shall not depart from him ; that sin shall not have dominion over them,* being * not under the law but under grace;* and that where the Lord begins a good work, he wiH carry it on to perfection. Now for a long time 1 went on my way rejoicing, and was encouraged to unite with others in religious societies, and began one weekly in my fatheF*s house, led in prayer, and read sermons to the people, who filled the house every time. And when I could get ministers to come, I did, and was much encouraged to go on. Mr. Robert Smith, the minister at Pequea, who kept a grammar school, and was earnestly engaged to promote the cause of his blessed Master, sent me an in- vitation to come to his institution ; promising to assist me in every way to obtain a classical education. I did earn- estly entreat the Lord to direct me, and having a desire to be useful to my fellow-mortals, and hoping this was an opening, and the way to be more so than in private life, I immediately gave up my business and went Now 1 thought no exertions could be too great to accomplish this object, and did study night and day, until I became so unwell Ihat the most noted physician we had told me, if I did not quit my studies, and go to active business again, I would soon die. This was like a dagger to my 14 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. heart; but I had good reason to believe it was so; and therefore had to give up, and attend to my business again; and now concluded 1 would attend rehgious societies, and do all I could in a private way/^ Here Mr. Eastbum's narrative ends abruptly. He probably intended to continue it, but for some reason, which cannot now be discovered, did not execute his purpose. His subsequent life, however, was so fully known to some still living, and for the greater part of the time, to the writer of this memoir, that there is no lack of the information necessary for continuing his bi- ography. '* CHAPTER II. Remarks on Mr, Eastburn^s narrative — his marriage and the character of his wife- — his exile from and return to Philadelphia — his hearing arms — his son — is refused to be taken on trials for the gospel ministry ^ by tlu Synod of New'York and Philadelphia — his rebaptization. The germs of future character are often distinctly seen in early life : and a careful consideration of the narrative before us will, it is believed, disclose the elements of those habits of feeling, thought, and action, by which its author was distinguished in his maturer years. It is his own remark, that he was an example of the inspired declaration of Solomon, " Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." But for that sensibility of conscience, and knowledge of his duty, which he derived from the pious instructions and admonitions of his parents, there IS no probability that he would have torn himself from his thoughtless companions, when going to the Schuylkill to profane the sabbath by skating on the ice, and have hastened back to attend a place of public worship. It is the want of such parental teaching and good example as he enjoyed, which is the radical cause that our cities MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 16 now abound with crowds of noisy boys and thoughtless youth, who desecrate the day of sacred rest, and even disturb, in their own dwellings, the exercises of those who wish ^*to keep holv the sabbath day." To this cause indeed — ^to the neglect of parental duty — ^may be traced that shocking violation of the fourth command of the decalogue, which prevails throughout our country, and which threatens to bring down upon it the just judg- ments of Heaven. If heads of families, in general, were as faithful in the discharge of their duty as the parents of young Eastbum appear to have been, many, Uke him, would not only abstain from ail open vicious practices, but, like him, would also feel the influence of that fear of God, which might lead to the diligent use of all the means of grace; and eventually, under the Divine bless- ing, to genuine and eminent piety. In the vivid and impressive views which the subject of this memoir had of his guilt and misery, and of his ex- posure to the curse of the broken l^w of God, in his UQ- converted state, connected, as thev were, with his awful apprehensions of the eternity of future punishment, we may doubtless find the origin of that earnest desire, which never forsook him, to be instrumental in plucking sinners as brands from the burning. He could not con- template their fearful situation, without most anxiously wishing to convince them of it, and to engage them, u possible, to flee from ** the wrath to come." He was habitually and deeply sensible that an effectual care for the soul, is emphancally ^^ the one thing needful ;" and to do something — to do every thing in his power — ^to promote the salvation of souls, he felt to be an obligation from which he could never be released. In the long and sore conflicts which this good man ex- Eerienced, and the variety of exercises through which e passed, before he was comfortably established in the hope of the gospel, we may perceive the source of that lively sympathy which he always manifested with per- sons in mental distress, and inquiring what they should do to be saved; and of the peculiar qualifications which all who knew him admitted that he possessed, for in- structing, counselling, and praying with individuals^ who ^m BIEMOmS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURI7. had been brouglit into this interesting situation. Me ** remembered his own affliction and misery — the worm- vrood and the gall ;^^ he had been carried to the borders of despair, or rather, for a season, he seems to have passed those borders; and he had found, at last, a happy and complete deliverance. Hence his interested feehngs for those who were experiencing, in any degree, the views and apprehensions of which he had known so much; and hence too his ability to give them advice, and to assist their labouring minds. They could scarcely speak of a fear or a discouragement, which he had not experimentally known. He had passed over the whole thorny path in which he found them travelling; he knew every inch of the ground, and every danger with which it was filled. He could make out, in his own case, a situation more deplorable than that of the most of those with whom he conversed; and, while he warned them faithfully of ^very false resting-place, he could guard them against utter despondency, and invite them to an immediate application to that precious Saviour, of whose readiness to receive the very chief of broken-hearted and believing sinners, he considered himself as a striking and memorable example. It appears that the apostle Paul often appealed to his own experience; and there is reason to believe that this was also frequently done by him whose narrative is before the reader. With the holv scriptures his familiarity was eminently great, and scriptural examples and scriptural doctrine were always the authorities, and the only ultimate authorities, on which he relied. Through the whole period of his pro- tracted spiritual conflict, it appears that Mr. Eastburn diligently employed himself in his lawful calling, and that when his distress was the greatest of all, he sought in ** working hard at his trade^^ for the mitigation of his misery. This advice he was doubtless prepared to give to others. He was no friend to the neglect of relative duties, or any of the ordinary concerns of life, because the mind was deeply engaged on the subject of religion ; and he was one of the best and safest advisers, for those whose mental exercises were mixed with morbid melan- choly. MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN, 17 The doctrines from which an individual first derives relief and comfort, after having .jflfrred from gloomy forebodings in re^rd to his eternal destiny, he is usually disposed to chensh fondly, and maintain siedf^istly, in subsequent life. This was remarkably verified in the subject of the present menM>ir. The all-sufficiency of Christ; his obedience and atonement, i^s constituting • righteousness, the imputation of which is the sole ground of the sinner^s pardon, justification and acceptance with God; the necessity of the Holy Spirit^s influence, to re- new and sanctify the heart; faith, in the strictest sense, the gift of God ; the union of the justified sinner with hit Saviour indissc^uble, and perseverance in grace the cer- tain consequence; resting on the covenant of grace, in which every true believer is interested, and not on fluc- tuating frames and feelings, as the foundation of hope and confidence toward God. — Of these doctrines the outlines are conspicuous in the narrative of Mr. East- burn; and of these he was tenacious to the end of his days. He nevertheless cherished a sincere afiection for many who differed from him in r^ard to some of these doctrines, and could maintain a cordial Christian fellow- ship with them; provided he discerned in them a real love of holiness, a true reliance on the Saviour, and a devoted attachment to his cause. He was a strict Cal- vinist, of the old school, in his own creed ; and could, for himself, not derive comfort from other views of Chris- tian doctrine than those which that creed presents. But the peculiarities of the system he did not reckon among the essentials of religion ; and he held his own opinions so meekly, that he was, in a remarkable degree, accept- able, in his visits and ministrations, among several Chris- tian denominations, whose doctrinal tenets differed con- siderably from his own. It appears from his narrative, that his parents early entertained the idea of his being educated for the gospel ministry ; and that after his conversion, he, for a time, left his mechanical occupation, and applied to study, with the hope of being regularly introduced into the sa> cred office. Although disappointed in this, it is probable we may here discern the beginning of that desire to bear n H MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EA8TBURN. ' the messages of salvation to perishing sinners, which could never be extinguished. This desire was no doubt greatly increased in its intensity, by those circumstances and considerations to which we have already adverted. So intense it certainly was, Uiat he sought its gratifica- tion, in opposition to discouragements and disappoint- ments neither fe.w nor of short duration; till at length, after he had passed the meridian of life, he was authorized to use his gifts, in exactly that form which was most de- sirable to himself. The foregoing remarks seemed to the writer to be naturally su^ested, on a careful examination of Mr. Eastbum^s narrative ; and to be worthy of attention on their own account : at the same time, they will enable the reader more clearly to understand a number of oc- currences, which will be noticed in the sequel of these memoirs. After Mr. E. returned to his business, as a cabinet- maker, nothing worthy of record seems to have occurred ; except that he labored v^tb his usual activity and dili- gence, and attended meetings for prayer and religious conference, as oflen as opportunities offered, for about the space of two years. — He then entered into the mar- riage relation. Among his papers the following certifi- cate was found — * "This may certify, to all persons whom it may con- cern, that Joseph Eastburn and Ann Owen, both of the city of Philadelphia, were lawfully married on the 12th day of June, Anno Domini, 1771. Per me, James Sproutt, Minister of the Gospel." The woman whom Mr. E. selected for a wife, v;as as much noted for industry as himself. Hers was exercised in a branch of the tailor^s business, which she had learn- ed, and in which she had become expert. She possessed higher intellectual powers, and was more improved by reading than her husband. But her best distinction was her eminent piety. She had, with this, much good sense and discretion, in connexion with an amiable temper and an engaging demeanor. Hence her company and coa- MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. It versation were truly attractive ; and the singular neat- ness and order of her dwelling were the admiration of all her visitants. Religion was her favorite topic of dis- course. But she never introduced it unseasonably, os- tentatiously, or offensively. She suffered conversation to take its natural course, and joined in it with cheerful- ness, and sometimes with pleasafitry, till a fit opportunity presented to give it a serious cast, or to drop some pious remark which she hoped might be useful. During the latter part of her life, she was a habitual invalid, and found it necessary to confine herself to her apartment through the whole inclement season of the year. Yet she was habitually cheerful, bearing her infirmities with little complaint and with exemplary fortitude. Her maladies were connected with a pulmonaiy aflection, which at length carried her to the grave. But, for her, the grave had no terrors. She approached it not only without fear, but with serenity and a desire to depart. Her patience, tenderness of conscience, Christian resig- ^ nation, and unwavering hope of heaven, through a long confinement, were or the most edifying kind. She was doubtful of the propriety of taking laudanum to mitigate her cough and restlessness ; nor would she consent to its use, till she had very seriously consulted the present writer on the lawfuFhess of such a remedy. — This tribute to her memory it had been unjust to withhold. The pe- riod of her dissolution will be noticed in its proper place. After what has been said, it is scarcely necessary to add, that Mr. and Mrs. Eastburn were happy in their union. For a number of years subsequent to their mar- riage, they had no house of their own, nor the undivided occupancy of one upon rent. They lived in a single room furnished by themselves, in a family that owned or had rented the dwelling in which they resided. This was their manner of life, during their residence in the city, till after the war of the American revolution ; and from the labour of their hands, in their several occupa- tions, they derived the means of a very comfortable support. Mr. Eastburn performed two or three tours of military duty, in the revolutionary war ; he was in the field at C 20 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. r£ I the memorable battle of Princeton, Jan. 3d, 1777, on which the success of our struggle for independence seemed to be suspended. He however accounted it a merciful providence, in his after life, although never in principle opposed to defensive warfare, that he had, in no instance, been instrumental in taking away human life. On one occasion the corps in which he bore arms was commanded to fire on the enemy, but was instantly countermanded, and ^\d not fire — nor on any other oc- casion was he called to discharge his musket on an op- posing foe. On the approach of the British army to Philadelphia, in September, 1777, many of the citizens, who had been ardently attached to the American cause, fled into the adjacent country. That Mr. and Mrs. Eastburn were among the fugitives there is no reason to doubt; but the place of their residence, during their exile, if ever known to the writer, is not now in his recollection. ,Before the close of the summer of 1 778, the British troops had evacuated the city, the citizens who had fled returned to their homes, and Mr. Eastbura and his wife resumed their occupations. The subsequent period, however, till the peace of 1783, was one of great public agitation; religion was in a languishing state throughout the land, and vice and immorality, the usual attendants of war, lamentably prevailed. So far as op- portunity offered, Mr. Eastburn continued his former practice of attending meetings for prayer and Christian conference, and was usually a leader in them. In something more than a year after marriage, as nearly as can now be ascertained, a son was born to the pious pair, whose story we are tracing. This child bore the name of Thomas ; and there can be no doubt that many prayers were offered in his behalf, and much religious instruction imparted to him. But, contrary to the wishes of his parents, he insisted, at an early age, on going to sea. After fruitless endeavors to dissuade him from his purpose, he vvas committed to the care of Captain Benjamin Wickes, then an intimate and en- deared friend of his father, and the commander of a merchant vessel which sailed from the port of Philadel- phia. The statement of this venerable man, now an MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 21 larriage, as elder of the clnirch in his 82d year, as given to the writer a few days since, represents the conduct of young East- burn, while under his superintendence, as orderly and correct. That he was not so, when he came to act for himself, it is^rievous^ to mention. He, however, became first a mate, and then the commander, of a merchant vessel. By the failure of a mercantile house, into whose employ he had entered, he lost the little property he had acquired : and shortly after, on his return from the West Indies, in a vessel in which he was only a passenger, he was instantly killed by a cannon-ball, at the age of twen- ty-four or twenty-five years. This was at the time when the excesses of the French revolution were at their height; and the shot which killed Thomas Eastburn, seems to have been fired with a view to detain, or to capture, the vessel in which he was a passenger, with a view to plunder. The news of the death of their son soon reached his anxious parents. This correction of their heavenly Father they bore with a submission and resignation truly Christian ; but it was manifestly painful for them to speak on the subject to any of their friends. Hence the memoriahst, after his pastoral visit to the mourning family, never introduced the topic in his con- versation with the parents; and hence, although he is satisfied that all the material facts of the case are here correctly stated, he is not quite sure that some unimpor- tant circumstances might be diiferent from the represent- ation now given of them. It may serve to show how opposite are the sources from which consolation under affliction is sought by different descrii)tions of people, to relate an incident which took place on this sad occasion. Some of the sailors belonging to the ship in which Thomas Eastburn was killed, called on his mother, to narrate the particulars of the disastrous event. On [)erceiving how much she was grieved, one of them said — " Madam, he died without a bit of pain ; the cannon-ball carried oif his head all at once.'^ Between the views of this sailor and Mrs. Eastburn, what a dillerence ! — he thinking only of an easy death; she absorbed with the tlioughts of that eternity into which her son was so suddenly hurried. This excellent woman, in a kind of reserved HJLinjiei' 1 H i ' n •' 'i i;! ^ ' t4 ',1 ' ( 4 (, •U i ll (M 1 1 1 'l MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. intimated to her pastor, in the single conversation he had with her on the death of her only son, that she had been unusually engaged, and, as she thought, assisted, in prayer on his behalf, for some time before his death ; and this vras the source, and the only one, from which she ap- peared to derive a ray of consolation. It is not improb- able that the deep interest which, in the latter part of his life, Mr. Eastburn took in the spiritual concerns of sea- men, was increased by the remembrance of his son. We now return to narrate the events of most impor- tance in the life of the subject of these memoirs, during the period which elapsed from his return from exile, till the termination of the awful pestilence of 1 793. It has already been mentioned, that during the first part of this period, he continued his practice of attending meetings for prayer. But it appears that beside this, he sought a regular introduction to the gospel ministn^. h is in the recollection of the memorialist, that before he left his father^s house for college, which was in May, 1 783, a letter iu relation to the introduction of a man into the gospel ministry, without a liberal education, was address- ed to that father. It cannot be stated as a matter of dis- tinct remembrance, that this letter related to Mr. East- burn ; and yet no doubt is entertained that it did. The man concerned, it was understood, resided in Philadel- phia. The letter was written by a delegate from the State of New- Jersey to the old Continental Congress, on which that delegate was then attending. The party to wh'jm the letter was addressed was a leading member of the Presbytery of Morris county, all the members of which had, a short time previously, separated themselves from the Presbytery of New- York, and formed the Presbytery of Morris county — -chiefly with a view to license men to preach the gospel, without requiring, as indispensable, a course of liberal study. But the manner in which the business to which this letter related was disposed of, in the Morris county Presbytery, is unknown to the memo- rialist ; except that Mr. Eastburn was never under the care of that Presbytery. It is considered as probable, that the finances of Mr. £. did not permit him to spend MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTRURN. IW the time in preparation for the pulpit, which was required even by the Morris county Presbytery. Certain it is, that shortly after this time, a proposition was made to the Presbytery of Philadelphia, to take Mr. £. on trial for the gospel ministry, without the literary acquisitions usually required in such a case. The minute of this Presbytery on the subject is not before the writer; but the following minute of the Synod of New-York and Philadelphia will show that the case had been referred to the Synod by that Presbytery. The name of Mr. Eastbum was indeed omitted, and no doubt with design, in the record ; but there is no question that the reference was to him. In the minutes of the Synod,* at their ses- sions in May, 1783, the following entry appears : "Through the committee of overtures, it was requested by the First Presbytery of Philadelphia, that the Synod declare to them their sense on this point, viz. whether a person without a liberal education, may be taken on trial or licensed to preach the gospel ? The questicm being put, it was carried in the negative." It was mentioned to a friend of the writer, by Mr. Eastbum himself, not long before his death, that the influence of the Rev. Dr. Witherspoon in the Synod, was chiefly instrumental in obtaining this decision. How- ever that might be, and whatever might be the number of those who voted in opposition to the majority, the cause of Mr. E. had, it appears, but one open and active advocate. A daughter of tlie Rev. Dr. Sproat, now liv- ing, has within a few hours assured the writer, that she well remembers the emphasis with which her father said, on returning to his family from the Synod—" I have had to stand alone, in pleading the cause of Mr. Eastbum :'* and then added, that he believed Mr. E. might do more good in preaching the gospel than some others who ob- tained license. The memorialist feels himself bound to state facts as he finds them ; but it is not to be understood e a severe attack of the prevailing pesti- lence; but his life was spared — spared in rich mercy, not only to those to whom his after ministrations in the gospel were so eminently blessed, but to many who, during the pestilence, were destitute of every other friend and helper. The family of his aged, endeared, and deeply afflicted pastor, received his most assiduous attentions. To them, as a relict of that family, still in life, has re- cently and with much emphasis expressed it to the writer, " he was like a good angel." He visited them daily, to inquire after the state of their health, or more commonly the state of their illness ; to take charge of their concerns, and to provide for their wants, as if they all had been his own — his own indeed they were, for affection and sym- pathy made them such. As one after another of this mourning family fell before the destroyer, Mr. E. was still present, to see that the corpse was decently laid out, the coffin prepared, and the funeral rites performed, with all the respect which the uigency of tlie times would permit. Such were his attentions and exertions, unabated and undismayed by disease and death, which stalked on every side, till, as the concluding part of his sad employ- ment, he deposited in the house appointed for all living. m ■>ii muij i I .im mm0e*ai MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBVIUf. 31 the mortal remains of his beloved pastor, and those of his wife. It appears from the diary of Dr. Sproat, a part of which has been published, that for a considerable length of time after the general prevalence of the yellow fever, and the flight of the citizens, h« met a few of the pious people of his charge who remained in the city, both on the sab- bath and on some other occasions. On all these occa- sions, without its being testified particularly to the memo- rialist, he has no doubt that Mr. Eastburn took a leading part; and also, in rendering, in a more private way, every service, both of a spiritual and temporal kind, to the sick and the dying. His own attack was before the disease had attained its widest spread ; his recovery was speedy and perfect; and he afterwards retained his hiealth, till health was restored to the city at large.* * The following extract from the writer's printed sermon on tbm death of Dr. Sproat, with the accompanying notes, will serve to illustrate some of the facts referred to in this part of the memoir: *' The painful infirmities of age, under which Dr. Sproat laboured for a considerable time before his death, he bore with a cheerful fortitude. Since the twenty-third day of August last, he had been looking for death, and ripening for it with uncommon speed. Oa that day he completed half a century of years in the character of an ordained minister of tlie gospel ; and thenceforward, to the time of his death, the larger portion of his wdsing hours were spent in the immediate acts of devotion, or of devout meditations and aspiratiras of soul.C') He endured the severe distress which was iniucted on his family without the least repining.(f ) At the funeral of a dear sun he might with peculiar propriety use the language, for he emi- nently possessed the spirit of Job.(tj " His death was easy, and he was rational to the last. A short time before he expired, and after he had lost the power of speech, being asked if he felt the support of religion, he answered by the signal of lifting up his hands and his eyes to heaven. (*) *• This is confirmed not only by the observation and testimony of thoM who were most about him, but by what appears in his own diary. Thi» diary exhibits one of the most instructinsf views of the exercises and temper of a Christian, especially when under affliction, that perhaps has ever been seen. (t) " His eldest son with his wife, and his younjest daughter, died within the space of a month. The doctor himself, and Mrs. Sproat, were added to the number in less than a month afterwards. (t) " Enfeebled and trembling with age, the Dr. followed the corpse of hi« son to the grave, and after it was deposited, leaning on his staff, he pro- nounced only these words,—* The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken awa/t blessed be the name of the Lord.* Amea ! D 32 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EA8TBURN. i \i . I A -A' y X Mr. Eastburn passed through three other seasons of desolating pestilence, which occurred in Philadelphia, in the successive years of 1797, 1798, and 1799. Those with which the city was visited in 1802 and 1803, were comparatively slight and partial. Of these, that of 1798 was not less fatal and terrific than the one of 1 793, of which we have taken a more particular notice. In 1 798, Mr. E. suffered more severely from the prevalent malig- nant fever, than he had done five years before — it brought him in appearance to the verge of the grave. The faith- ful and vigilant nursing of his infirm v/ife, was the princi- pal means, I'nder the divine blessing, of preserving his valuable life. He had in this illness a very earnest desire to depart, and to be with his Saviour. " But I could not obtain my discharge," was the language which he used, in speaking to the writer of his feelings and views at this period ; and this language carried in it more meaning than he could have thought of at that time. He was not ** dischai^ed, because he had yet to render services, in the church militant, of the most important kind. He had not yet had an opportunity to sound the gospel trumpet, in that public manner in which he afterwards did, and for which hundreds, perhaps thousands, will bless God to all eternity. The providential dealings of the Father of mercies with his dear children, are often such as they do not un- derstand at the time ; and which astonish them on the The exertions, and anxieties, and privations, review. " The respect which was shown to his remaiDs, at a time which precluded it in almost every other instance, was a proof of the high esteem in which he was held."(*) (») " During the late distressing scenes which were witnessed in this city, the almost universal mode of conveying a corpse to the grave was in a Learse or a cart ; and the attendants consisted only of the person who drove the carriage, the grave-digger, or a negro hired for the purpose, and, in a few instances, two or three mourning friends. But in the case of Dr. Sproat there was a procession and bearers of the dead, which, as it was more strik- ing to the beholders, in the circumstances in which it happened, than the most splendid funeral that perhaps the city ever produced,' so it was a much stronger proof of the affection which was felt for the deceased, than tlie greatest parade, in ordinary times, can possibly be. The pious people who had met at the church for prayer, formed a procession of about fifty persons, •ind some religious negroes voluntarily offered themselves to carry the bier." MEM0r2 OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBtJRN. S3 ;r services, m of Mr. E. in the seasons of yellow fever through vi^hich he passed, were certainly great, and at times exceedingly trying; although it is believed that he suffered little, per- haps nothing, fronn the fear of death, as a personal con- cern. Yet he not only suffered extremely by disease, especially in 1798, but the scenes of human misery with which he was surrounded, and which in many instances admitted of no relief, were distressing beyond description. The toil he endured both by night and by day, in making coffins for the dead, and in visiting the diseased and the dying, were burdensome in the extreme. Above all, the multitude of immortal beings, (sometimes a hundred in a day,) whom he saw passing into eternity, the most of them ignorant, and many of them vicious — ^must have produced on a mind like his — always sympathetic, and always deeply impressed with the realities of that unchanging state of happiness or misery upon which death sets ite seal — feelings, which nothing but the grace of God, added to much natural fortitude, could have enabled hira to en- dure. These, notwithstanding, were the very dispensa- tions of Providence which were made to contribute to his future comfort and usefulness — which brought him into that sphere of action in the church of Christ, to which he had long been looking as an object of intense desire, and which he had often resigned as hopeless. The avails of his mechanical business, of which the making of coffins is always a very profitable part, were such, (although he took no undue advantage of the neces- sities which the pestilence created) that he not only can- celled all his debts, but accumulated a little capital, which enabled him afterwards to live without labor, to make sll his ministerial services perfectly gratuitous, to do many charitable acts while living, and to provide for the sup- port of a preacher in the mariner's church at his death. In another and a still more important respect, were the desolations of pestilence made instrumental in opening the way for his preaching the gospel. They produced a demand for his services, which it was not easy, if it had been lawful, to resist. To be prepared for an uninter- rupted narrative of the several steps by which this was brought about, an account of the manner in which he ^f" 34 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBITRN. . :i ^ passed the various seasons of pestilence that have been noted, has been given at once ; and has carried forward the story of his Hfe, as connected with these events, to a period from which we must now look back for several years. The church to which Mr. Eastbum belonged was col- legiate. The congregation worshipped in two places, and in those the two pastors preached alternately. Each of these congregations, of course, on the death of one of the pastors, and till the settlement of another, would be deprived of half the supply of the public and regular preaching of the gospel ; or else, a portion of ministerial labour was to be taken from one, at the expense of the other. The Northern Liberties of the city contained one of these congregations, which was yet in an infant and very feeble state, and had contributed, and could contribute, but little to the support of the gospel. It was therefore ma^e a question, on the death of Dr. Sproat, whether the attempt to establish-a Presbyterian church in that place, and at that time, ought not to be abandoned. This idea was resisted by the remaining pastor ; but it seemed neither practicable nor proper to resist the opin- ion, that his services should be chiefly, and almost wholly, given to that congregation which was fourfold the more numerous of the two, and from which nearly the whole pecuniary expenses of the collegiate church had been, and was still to be defrayed. The remaining pastor, who vras the present writer, and who must now speak of him- self and his agency much more frequently than he could wish, gave as much attention as he could to the feeble congregation ; but it was without a regular supply for six years in succession. It was mournful and embarrass- ing to witness this destitution ; and to hear applications for religious instruction which could not be complied with. To afford some relief, the pastor resolved, that, in addition to the occasional services which he might be able to render to this part of his charge, (for such he still considered it,) he would open a weekly meeting for re- ligious exercises, on the evening of the Lord's day, and commit the conducting of it, subject to some general di- rections from himself, to Mr. Eastburn. MEMOIRS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 35 The plan for the exercises of this meeting was as fol- lows : — The children and youth of the congregation were to be the principal objects of attention. They were to come tc^ether in a large school-room, to repeat to Mr. E. the Westminster Shorter Catechism, with the hymns and forms of devotion prepared for children by Dr. Watts — the forms of devotion somewhat modified, and reprinted in a primer-like form, for the occasion. The parents of the children were invited, and any others who chose were permitted, to attend at these meetings ; and after prayer and singing, the children were to repeat their catechism, hymns, and prayers, to Mr. E. and he was then to make such explanatory remarks on the catechism as he thought proper, and to address, first and principally to the chil- dren, and then to their parents and other attendants, such exhortations of a practical nature, as he judged would be for edification. These exercises were to be followed by prayer, and- to be concluded with singing a hymn or psalm, with the doxology. Such was the plan adopted by the pastor — adopted without consultation with others, and for which, if he deserved the blame to which a few of his ministerial brethren saw fit to subject him, it cannot be denied that it belonged to him exclusively. The se- quel will show that it did lea": to some abuse ; but that this abuse was apeedily and completely corrected ; and the issue was unquestionably of the most salutary kind. Certain it is, that the pastor was entitled to no praise or commendation whatsoever, for being, as he undoubtedly was, the chief instrument of introducing Mr. E. to the wide field of usefulness which he afterwards entered ; for there was not, at that time, in the mind of the pastor, any conception that such a result would be produced. He had no expectation that Mr. E. would do more, or go farther, than teach the children and youth, and exhort and pray with them and their parents, agreeably to the plan that has been specified ; and he supposed that even this would be no more than a temporary measure. In a word, all that ensued was unforeseen and unexpected, and the pastor only acted on the several emergencies which subsequently occurred, as his sense of duty dic- tated at the time. D2 36 MEMOIRS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. .1 '.:. ' t ! ^: H ]i • I i The original plan appeared evidently to be attended with a divine blessing. Since the writing of these me- moirs was commenced, word has been sent to the writer, that one or more Christians of distinction trace their con- version to the instructions, and exhortations, and prayers, which, in youth, they heard from Mr. Eastburn, in the school-house at Campington. The pastor attended these meetings on a few occasions at the first, to afford his countenance and aid in executing the plan he had devised. He finds in his diary for January 31st, 1796, the follow- ing entry : — " In the evening 1 went and drank tea at Mr. Eastbum's, and went with him to the society at Campington. The people were very solemn, and the children appeared to be much affected." This was no peculiar occurrence — it was only a single instance of what was usually, and almost uniformly, witnessed at these interesting meetings. So interesting, indeed, they soon became, tiiat the school4iouse would not contain the numbers of which they were composed, and they were therefore transferred from that house to the church. It was natural for Mr. E. when he found a crowd of attentive listeners at these meetings, originally intended chiefly for children and youth, to make his address to the adult part of his audience longer and more particular than he did, or perhaps ever thought of doing, at the first. Many of his hearers, moreover, had no regular connexion with any religious society : some of them seldom, if ever, attended any other place of worship, and were not only extremely ignorant of the fundamental doctrines of the gospel, but, till now, utterly careless, in the matter of their souPs salvation. On seeing a crovtrd of this descrip- tion, attentive and serious, who could censure him for extending his address to them, into a discourse, equal to a sermon in length ? But his error was, and it must not be disguised, that he gradually diminished his attention to the youthful part of his audience, till at length he almost, or altogether, passed them by, took a text, and made as regular a discourse as he was capable of, to the promiscuous assembly which filled the small church in which his addresses were made. It was at that time, and it still is, the conviction of the writer, that Mr. E. ;! * MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 37 would probably have done more good, had he adhered to the original plan, with no other change than a length- ening of the concluding address; instead of suffering that address gradually to supplant the catechetical instruction, and special pious admonition of the your^. This change of plan, which was made, and for some time continued, without the knowledge or suspicion of the pastor of the church, was, when he became acquaint- ed with it, the cause of considerable uneasiness. It was also disapproved by the most discreet and judicious mem- bers of the congr^ation ; but it was extremely popular in the neighborhood of the Campington church, and with some others who resorted to it statedly, on the evening of the sabbath. The writer recollects, and indeed has found the time noted in his diary, that with a view to ascertain from personal obser\'ation, whether, besides their irregularity, there was any thing exceptionable in the addresses of Mr. £., be attended one of these meet- ings, and took care to mingle with the crowd, in such a manner as not to be observed. The experiment satisfied him fully, that the discourses of Mr. E., although in a measure immethodical and unconnected, w^ere still found in doctrine, and well calculated to benefit his liearers. Under this conviction, and considering the destitute state of the people, and the influence which Mr. E. had over them, no interference was attempted — it was believed to be not only injudicious, but, in the circumstances of the case, absolutely inconsistent with Christian duty. It was also expected, that when an additional pastor of the col- legiate church should be chosen, which was then believed to be near at hand, and which shortly after took place in fact, these irregular exercises would, in that place at least, be terminated as a matter of course. ^ ;! ■T ^?(i*^|*¥«<^i* *^i# ( 38 ) • ^'' «-.rf*^*«* / S- m f CHAPTER IV. Unhappy consequences of Mr. Bastburn'^s acting as a cate- chist and exhorter without a regular designation ; the manner in which the evil was arrested; Mr, E.^s cx- amination and qtialijicd licensure by the Presbytery of Philadelphia, ^ In an early part of the summer of 1 799, a collegiate pastor of the church to which Mr. Eastburn belonged, was ordained ; and public worship was, in consequence, regularly celebrated, twice on the sabbath — at Camping- ton, as well as in tlie associated church in the city. The urgency, therefore, which had led to Mr. E.'s employ- ment as a catechist and an exhorter, was now terminated. But his labors had been so acceptable, and so evidently blessed, thaj; he thought he ought not to discontinue them; and for the same reason, his pastors were reluctant to attempt to lay him under any restriction. He therefore continued, for nearly six years, to exhort on the evenings of the Lord's day and at some other times, both in the Northern Liberties of the city and in several othef places. Toward the latter part of this period, the ill effects of Mr. E.'s appearing as a public teacher, without any regu- lar call or appointment to such an ofiice, became pam- fully manifest. Several individuals, utterly unqualified to teach and admonish others, became exhorters and leaders in religious meetings ; and considered themselves entitled to assume these characters, in consequence of being able to plead the example of Mr. E. The evil was increasing, and the embarrassment it occasioned to the pastors of the church to which these unauthorized teachers chiefly belonged, was not small. To endeavor to arrest the evil by an explicit prohibition, would, it was thought, hazard the peace of the congregation ; and to suffer it to proceed, seemed inconsistent with a. faith- ful discharge of duty. In these circumstances the ir- regularity was corrected, in a manner which the writer of these memoirs has always considered as peculiarly providential, and as laying him under special obligation MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 39 to divine grace and goodness. The facts were as fol- lows — The writer had been so occupied in the course of a certain week, that Saturday had arrived, without his having even selected a text for a discourse on the following day. On opening the New Testament with a view to such a selection, one of the first passages that met his eye, was Gal. vi. 3 — ^'' For if a man think him- self to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.^^ The determination was immediately formed to discourse on theB«^ words, and to show how, in re- ligious concerns, this text is verified, in a variety of in- stances. Five such instances occurred, and were rapidly minuted down, before the connexion of the text was care- fully examined, or a commentator consulted. On look- ing into Doddridge, it appeared that, in his opinion, the words were specially mtended as "a caution against vainglory and an overweening opinion of ourselves ;^* and in a note he states it to be the opinion of Mr. Locke, that the following verse has a particular reference to false teachers. This immediately suggested that a sixth particular might consist, in an application of the text to those who take on themselves the office of public teachers of religion, without either qualifications for, or call to such an office. But it was speedily resolved to omit this, lest, in the particular circumstances of the congre- gation, the contemplated application might appear to be too pointed, and thus be productive of disturbance. To this resolution, however, the pastor, on a little reflection, found he could not adhere. The words — " not handling the word of God deceitfully," flashed on his mind, with a force which almost made him tremble. He saw that if the text he had chosen rendered the particular in ques- tion peculiarly applicable to his charge, this was so far from furnishing a reason for the omission of that paii:icu- lar, that it formed an imperious demand that it should be retained, and be distinctly and prominently presented. It was accordingly retained, and made the last of the se- ries. The efTect was salutary beyond all expectation. The impression produced by this discourse was power- ful, and yet, so far as was ever known to the pastor, not offensive. The unqualified exhorters never again, it is ^1 ■*l Hi MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTRURN. believed, attempted to speak in public. But on the Wednesday morning following, Mr. Eastburn came to his pastor, and in a long conversation opened his mind freely. lie said that the sermon he had heard on the sabbath, had deprived him of sleep, and had led him to close self- examination. He appeared to be particularly distressed with the apprehension, that he had been *^ thinking him- self to be something, while he was^ nothing." Such, he was told in reply, was not the estimate made of him by the preacher, either when the sermon was delivered, or at any other time ; but on the contrary, that he was be- lieved to be qualified to do good, and that he had done good, by taking the lead in social exercises of religion ; still that it should be our care to do good in such a way as not to do harm at the same time ; and that he could not but be sensible that his example had furnished a plausible pretext, for some who were wholly unfit to dis- course publicly to others on the gre'-.£ doctrines of the word of God, to assume the awful responsibility of doing it. The result was, that he threw himself entirely on his pastor to direct him how to act ; and was promised that his case should receive the most serious and de- liberate consideration. This conversation, which lasted from early in the morning till one oVlock, took place, as appears from the writer's diary, on the 1 2th of Decem- ber, 1804, and the writer has often looked back to the circumstances which led to it, and tne consequences which followed it, as furnishing for him a subject for humble gratitude to God — gratitude that he was, with- out plan or design on his part, in a sort compelled to do that which not only arrested the progress of evil, but opened the way for the eminent and extensive usefulness of the holy man whose memoirs he is now writing. It was so ordered in providence, that about four years before the occurrence just stated, a plan had been devis- ed for providing a chaplain, of the Presbyterian denomi- nation, for the jail, hospital, and bettering-house of the city of Philadelphia. This plan, with some considera- tions urging its adoption, had been printed in a pamphlet form, and distributed among those who, it was supposed, were hkely to favor it and render it effective. But no MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 41 suitable candidate for the deficiency could be named) and hence the whole plan met with opposition from some, and with indifference from many; and the present writer, by whom it had been drawn up, had already con- sidered his attempt as finally abortive, when he found himself pledged to consider the case of Mr. Eastbum, and advise bim as to the course he ought to pursue. It did not require much meditation to thmk of him as a fit person, and in some respects the fittest that could be found, to act as a chaplain to the public and charitable in- stitutions which have been mentioned. The management of those institutions was much in the hands and under the influence of the Friends or Quakers ; and with them the very circumstance that Mr. E. was not a regular clergy- man of the Presbyterian church, would render his stated access to these establishments more easy and acceptable, than if he had been clothed with the regular clerical character. With others, also, who had been hostile or indifferent to the plan first proposed, Mr. £. was highly popular ; and that he was admirably qualified to perform the duties of a chaplain to those who were in a state of suffering, whether through misfortune or crime, was ad- mitted by all. Afler, therefore, consulting with a num- ber of his friends, and finding that Mr. E. ^as cordially willing. to accept of the appointment contemplated, the writer determined to endeavor to obtain in his behalf, from the Presbytery of Philadelphia, a designation to the duties of a chaplaincy; with a license also, to exhort and pray with Christian assemblies generally, as opportunity might offer. Accordingly, the memorial recited in the minute of the Presbytery, which will presently appear, was drawn up, and subscribed by a number of influential individuals. During the interval between Dec. 12th, 1 804, and May, 1 805, the impression of the writer is (but without a distinct recollection) that Mr. E. did not oflen, if ever, address promiscuous assemblies ; but confined him- self chiefly to taking a leading part in meetings for prayer and religious conference, to the visitation of the sick, and to conversations with individuals whose minds were se- riously exercised in regard to their spiritual state. The following extract from the minutes of the Presby- ■t^' !^ 'tt r W'- MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. teiy of Philadelphia, will sufficiently explain the whole process by which Mr. £. was regularly authorized to per- form the duties of a religious teacher, the conditions and limitations under which the authority was granted, and the examination to which he was subjected when the grant was made. The Presbytery was remarkably harmonious in all the discussions which took place at the time, and entirely unanimous in the result — A venerable member, now deceased, remarked to the writer, after the adjourn- ment, that he thought a divine influence had most sensibly pervaded the judicature of the church on this interesting occasion. , .. . i-B " At a meeting of the Presbytery of Philadelphia, May the 14th, 1805— ** Present Drs. Green and Blair; Messrs. Irwin, Daven- port, Russel, Miiredoler, Latta, Boyd, Potts, and Jane- way, ministefs. **A memorial signed by a number of members of several Presbyterian congregations in Philadelphia, was brought in, read^ and is as follows — " ' To. the Reverend Presbytery of Philadelphia, " * We the undernamed inhabitants of Philadelphia and the liberties thereof, beg leave to lay before Presbytery the following memorial, viz. *^ *■ We represent that the circumstances of those who are confined in the Bettering-House, Gaol, and Hospital of the City of Philadelphia, in being deprived of the in- structions and consolations of religion, are calculated deeply to affect the minds of those who suitably estimate the value of evangelical truth, and know the worth of immortal souls. Influenced by the consideration of these circumstances, a number of the ministers and other mem- bers of the Presbyterian churches in Philadelphia, did, about four years since, devise and endeavor to execute, a plan for committing to a regular Presbyterian minister, the charge of the unhappy people in the public establish- ments mentioned. This plan is herewith submitted to the Presbytery, that our views and designs, and the reason which in our opinion justify them, may the more distinctly ^STBVRN. plain the whole ithorized to per- i conditioiM and as granted, and t when the grant ibly harmonious it the time, and erable member, ler the adjoum- id most sensibly this interesting iladelphia, May . Irwin, Daren- otts, and Jane- f members of iladelphia, was MEMOIRS OP THB REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 43 appear. For though we do not propose exactly to adopt the plan which is exhibited in the printed pamphlet, yet the considerations by which it is supported, are those which still influence us. — But we beg leave to remark, that the plan, thus exhibited to the Presbytery, was not carried into effect at the time it was devised and printed, principally because a suitable and popular candidate, for taking the charge of the establishments in question, could not be held up to those who were requested to subscribe for his support; and till the present hour the whole busi- ness has been suspended, for this reason. In the mean time the ministers and members of various religious de- nominations have occasionally visited the Bettering-House and the Gaol, and spoken to the people who are there confined. Among those wlio have performed these acts of religious charity, none has been so assiduous as Mr. Joseph Eastbum, a member in flill communion with the 2d Presbyterian congregation of this city, and none, we truly think, could be nK>re acceptable or useful than he. We do, therefore, with all deference to the reverend Presbytery, respectfully submit it to their very serious consideration, whether it might not be highly advanta- geous to the interests of religion, if the said Mr. Eastburn should be by them appointed a catechist or evangelist, for the express purpose of taking the chaise, under their direction, of the Bettering-House, Hospital, and Gaol of this city ; with permission, also, as occasional opportuni- ties might offer, of speaking to others on the great sub- jects of religion. It is, no doubt, well known to the Pres- bytery, as it is to the undersigned, that Mr. Eastburn has been, for some years, in the practice of exhorting smaller or larger assemblies of the people on the concerns of their souls, and that his labours have been very acceptable to many. If he should receive authority from the Presby- tery to continue this practice, with the special designa- tion of the public institutions mentioned, as his particu- lar charge, and under the control of the Presbytery, would it not rather prevent, than become a precedent for, the violation of the established order of our church ? Could it be pleaded as a precedent for introducing men into the ministry, indiscriminately, without those hterary E 'IJ , '^;' i::-' • 'ri 5 -jlf ^ 44 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBT7RN. qualifications, or that regular process of trial, usually de- manded ? Would it not rather be analogous to what other Presbyteries have lately done, and the General Assembly approved ? This we fully submit to the wisdom of the rresbytery; being ourselves sincerely attached to the excellent order established on this subject generally, by the constitution of our church. We have, on the whole, nothing further to add, but that we know that Mr. East- bum is so well esteemed in the city, that the appointment we surest would immediately render practicable the plan for supplying the institutions in question with regular religious instruction and visitation ; that his acceptance among other denominations is such, that he would be likely to obtain their countenance and approbation in this work ; that the very circumstance of his not being a regularly ordained clei^yman of our church, would of itseli facilitate his entrance into the institutions contem- plated ; and that if Presbytery, as we hope may be the case, shall find their way clear to authorize him to take the charge of these establishments, we the undersigned are ready to use our endeavors to obtain for him such a salary as may enable turn to devote his time to this im- portant work.' ^Philadelphia, Ma^/^ 1805.' ;. >i " This memorial was made the subject of much delib- eration, inquiry, and discussion. — In the course of which it appeared, that Mr. Eastburn, to whom the memorial refers, has received baptism for himself in adult age, though he had been baptized in infancy ; and was still disposed to consider infant baptism in a different light from that in which it is viewed by our church, though he has always remained in communion with that church, and shown no disposition to uige his peculiar sentiments on others. On the whole, after a careful consideration of the case, the Presbytery, feeling most sensibly the import ince of providing for the religious instruction and assistance of the unhappy persons confined in the places mentioned in the memorial, and desirous at the same time to do no- thing contrary to the principles and usage of the Presby- terian church, determined to specify distinctly the cpndi MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURff. 46 tions on which they would agree to take Mr. Eastbum under their patronage. These conditions were the following — *^ 1. That he adopt the Confession of Faith, catechisms, government, and discipline of the Presbyterian church, (the article of baptism alone excepted) and agree to walk by them as the rule of his faith and practice. ^^ 2. That he be willing to engage, and do engage, that on the subject of baptism (retaining his own sentiments) he will leave those with whom he may have intercourse, in the undisturbed possession of their creed and opinions; and that whenever applications shall be made to him in regard to baptism, he will direct the applicants to some regularly ordained minister, " 3. That in receiving from this Presbytery authority to teach, he do not consider himself a candidate for the pas* toral office. ^^ 4. That he agree to submit, in the discharge of his duty, to the directions that shall from time to time be given him by Presbytery. " 5. That the authority to teach which may be confer- red, shall cease whenever the Presbytery, or Mr. East- burn, shall judge its continuance to be no longer ex- pedient. " 6. That in the execution of the trust that may be con- ferred by Presbytery, it be understood that he will in all respects endeavor to avoid giving offence, by taking care not to violate unnecessarily the sentiments and opinions of those among whom he may be called to la- bor, and by the exercise of an exemplary humility, pru- dence, and condescension. " Mr. Eastbum was then introduced to the Presbytery, and the above conditions were twice read, and he fully agreed to each and all of them as reasonable and proper, and as forming the system by which he would act in the execution of the trust which the Presbytery might com- mit to him, in consequence of the prayer of the memorial. " Presbytery then conversed with Mr. Eastbum on his experimental acquaintance with religion, and questioned him on some of the leading truths and doctrines of the H ■| H 111 !:[ y ■'" (h Bl [i I 41 :: 'M 48 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. Christian system, and having obtained entire satisfaction on these subjects, came to the following resolution, viz.' " Resolved^ That Mr. Joseph Eastburn be, and he is hereby authorized, to explain and discourse on the sacred scriptures* to catechise and exhort in the Gaol, Aims- House, and Hospital, of the city of Philadelphia, and also, as occasional opportunities may offer, to speak to collec- tions of people m other places, on the concerns of their souls. *' Ordered, that the stated clerk furnish Mr. Eastburn with an attested copy of the preceding memorial, and of the subsequent proceedings of Presbytery relative to him. " Extract from the Minutes of the Presbytery of Phila- delphia. « George C. Potts, Stated Clerk:' ':% ' ;^' CHAPTER V. His license entirely satisfactory to himself- — his fidelity and success in the Hospital^ Alms-House^ and Prison of A Philadelphia — his labors, various and incessant, and acceptable to different denominations — he is principally i instrume7ital in. forming a congregation — death of his '''- wife, and entire relinquishment of his mechanical busi- ness — becomes stated preacher to the Mariners, The resolution of the Presbytery of Philadelphia al- reody recited, formed the license, or conveyed the eccle- siastical authority, under wliich Mr. Eastburn performed his ministerial services to the end of his life, a period of about four-and-tw^enty years. The conditions on which he accepted the office of a religious teacher, imposed on him no irksome restraint; for it is believed they were not different from those which he would have chosen, if the choice had been wholly left to himself. It is not known that he ever desired to sustain the pastoral relation, or to administer the sacraments, or to share in the government of the church, or to change the sentiments of an indivi- MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 47 dual on the subject of baptism. To proclaim the mes- sages of salvation — ^to impress the momentous truths of the gospel on the hearts and consciences of careless sin- ners, to guide inquiring souls to the Saviour, and to edify the people of God by privite, v. well as by public dis- course, appears to have comprised all that he wished, and all for which he considered himself as qualified ; and fts this was a field -of usefulness as ample as he probably had any inclination to enter, so it is certain that in this he la- bored with a most exemplary diligence, and a most un- usual success. His first special designation was to those who were confined in the three public establishments which are mentioned in the memorial presented to the Presbytery ; and the assiduity and tenderness could scarcely be ex- ceeded, with which he endeavored by every mean in his power to promote the spiritual welfare of these children of poverty, misfortune, or crime. He visited them often ; he instructed and counselled them; he reproved some and encouraged others ; he was found at the bedside of the sick, the maimed, and the dying; he sympathized with all, and as frequently and fully as opportunity would per- mit, he united with them in social woi'ship, and preached to them with zeal and fidelity. All this will best appear from some of his own statements. The following connected narratives were found among his manuscripts. ^> I am requested to keep in writing the case of a woman that had been confined in one of the cells of the Pennsylvania Hospital — which is as follows. As I was passing the place, I heard the most plaintive voice, crying * Oh! my burden is too heavy for me to bear! My sins are too great to be forgiven.' I called aloud to her — * if your burden is ever so heavy, Jesus invites you to come to him, and he will give you rest; and if your sins are ever so great, he can freely pardon them all.' She immediately called me by name, and desired me to open the door (which I could not do) but inquired where she had known me. She said it was when I kept meeting in the Northern Liberties, and had many children about me — ^that she was one of them, and that those were her happy days. £ 2 48 BIEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. II El m 'I ..'l f She said if she had only gone on to serve the Lord as she did then, she might have been happy. But she did not — and now she was shut up in that dismal place. My mind was much affected to hear the poor creature thus exclaim; but shortly after, she made her escape at mid- night, and went to her home. I visited her there, and found hermind more composed. Buther friends did not like that any one should speak to her, or that she should go to any place of worship ; and if she did, they would shut her out of doors all night. But the Lord had pity on her, and called her to his blessed home, * where the wicked cease from troubling, and where the weary are at rest.' When she was near her end, she sent for me, and with pleasure told me what the Lord had done for her souj. She had a full assurance of her eternal happiness, through a precious Saviour, and hoped to meet me in heaven. As I was then going a journey, I saw her no more — she died while I was away, ^m ' <" - v . r The Lord can make the way-faring, though fools, wise to salvation. This has encouraged me to pay attention to the poor deranged people in the Hospital ; and I now record some things more which took place there. Going into a ward where many of them were together, an elderly gentleman who had been long there cried out — ' What, sir, are you come to preach to us again?' I replied, *Yes, sir, if you will please to come into another ward and hear — I have no authority to compel you.' 'But you have,' replied another. * Does not your Lord and master command you to go out to the highways and hedges, and compel sinners to come to him ?' I replied, * That is true, my friend, and will you come?' — *I surely will,' said he: and many of them did attend worship at that time. I took for my text the words — 'Compel them to come in.' He who men- tioned them appeared much engaged, and entreated me to go to their ward again, which I did. He soon after re- covered his use of reason, and was set at liberty. At another time, some of the doctors wished to see what effect it might have upon some that were quite bad, to bring them in. A number were accordingly brought MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 49 and placed before me — one with his hat covered with dirty feathers, which he had picked up. Some of them appeared very uneasy, and kept stamping and looking very wild at me and others — one figuring m the sand on the floor, and then looking at me, as though he were taking a likeness. This drew the attention of the people who were in their senses, so much, that I thought our meeting would be broken up. I tried to keep my mind composed, and to beg the Lord to direct me what to do. J thought it would be best to surprise them ; and I jumped up suddenly before them, and csdled upon Uiem to attend, telling them we had come there to worship Him that made us, and had given us our reason at. first, and could restore it to those who had lost it; that we did not know what he might do for us, if we should sincerely pray; and now, said I, if you will be quite still, we will endeavor to pray. They saw me go upon my knees, and to the surprise of all, they immediately kneeled dowt), aod the feathered hat was thrown aside» . After prayer, they all rose and sat down, looking earnestly at me, acid re- mained quiet until all were dismissed. Some time after, the steward, Mr. Francis Higgins, desired to know if I would be willing he should bring a man out of a cell into the meeting. I told him, if he could be kept in order I was willing. He then brought him- — ^a very large man. I went up to him and welcomed him to take a seat They then brought another, very bad, and put this man by the side of the first — The second man began to shuffle and make a noise, on which the first seized lum fast by his knees, and told, him he must be perfectly still there, and kept him in order all the time of worship, and did not move himself, except when I was speaking of what the blessed Saviour had done for poor sinners — ^how many dreadful cases he had relieved — ^he then clasped the other round the neck, as if he wished they might be benefited also ; and after worship went quietly to his cell again. A woman called at my house, desiring I would speak to a friend of hers, confined in one of the cells. I inquired for her, and was told she was so unreasonable it would be in vain to say any thing to her. I observed I would wish to comply with the request of my friend. They i.tnii|i t 1 w i II : i ' »•". f >^ m MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. then went and put some decent clothes on her, and in- vited me to go in. She cried out — * I do not know that man/ True, said T, but you know such a lady. She, I said, desired me to come and see you. She then began to measure the shawl they had put on her with her knuckles, as fast as she could. Why, said I, do you that? *I must, I must,' was the answer,* for I am a great sinner.' So am I, was the reply, but I am come to tell you about a great Saviour, who is able to save you and me. She then stop- ped, and sat as still as was possible for any one to do, and listened to all that I said without uttering another word. In a short time after she came to herself, so far as to leave the Hospital, and took lodgings for herself; and then de- sired to see me. I found her composed and solemn. She desired me to pray and return thanks with her; and when she rose up to go to prayer, she lifted up her hands and said — *0 Lord, help me to unite with thy servant now i« prayer,' and then fell upon her knees. Dr. Rush desired me to visit a patient of his, also, in one of the cells. The gentleman was much distressed, and complained that he was worse tliain a brute ; that he could not act as a rational creature ; that when he eat he was so ravenous that he was shocked at himself — he was very melancholy. Visiting him on a Sabbath day, he inquired if I was not about to have worship in some part of the Hospital. I told him I was. He requested to attend with us. The steward observed, it was contrary to his orders to let him come out of his cell. The gentleman said, if Dr. Rush was there, he would let him come. At that very instant, unexpectedly to him or any of us, the doc- tor appeared, passing the cell door. He called out, * Oh, Doctor, shall I not be permitted to go to meeting here?' Certainly, replied the doctor. He appeared oveijoyed, and attended with great apparent devotion ; and after- ward entreated me to go back with him to his place, which I did, and often tried to encourage him. He had not been allowed any book before, but now earnestly desired to have a Bible, which was allowed him. But his constitution was very weak, and he gradually declined in body, until nature sunk. He was not able, as far as I MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 51 could fincl, to say any thing about the state of his mind, until death closed the scene. Doctor Rush also desired me to visit a Doctor, who had come from the West Indies in a consumption, seeking the advice of physicians, and to try a change of climate. But he WAS very fast sinking under the disease.- He had a room furnished in the Hospital, and every attention pos- sible paid to him. I went with one of the managers to see him, and told him Dr. Rush had desired me to come, and what was my errand. He received me politely, but said but little. I endeavored to improve the time to the best of my knowledge, and hope I was directed by the blessed Spirit to a word in season. I urged the necessity of prayer to the Lord, who alone could help him ; and desired to know if he would have me to pray with him. He seemed rather to consent, than to ask it. But in time of prayer, his mind was filled with wonderful joy ; and when I rose, he clasped me with both hands, and said it was the hap piest visit to him that ever be 1^ ; and that he was un- der great obligations to Doctor Rush for many favors, but none was so great as sending me to visit him at that time ; and he desired me to come again. But in a few hours after, on the same day, he expired. The manager, who was of the Friends' society, was so much pleased with what he beheld, that he wrote me a permit to visit the Hospital when 1 pleased, and gave orders to the steward and gate-keeper to admit me at any time — which opened the way for my holding worship there ; and he and other of the managers have often attended the meetings and countenanced them." . ' It appears that, beside the foregoing narratives, Mr. East- burn kept a regular journal of the religious services he performed, from the time of his licensure till he was con- fined to his house by his last sickness. If the whole of this journal were published, it would exhibit a very extra- ordinary series of labor and self-denial, through which this excellent man passed, in the service of his divine Master, and for the salvation of sinners of all descriptions — but especially for those for whom others had not suffi- ciently cared. -**-^ B MEMOIRS OF THE REV; JOSEPH EASTBVRN. From this journal a considerable number of extracts will be made. Previously to this, however, it may be proper to remaiic, that for the two or three years imme- diately succeeding his licensure, his services on the Sab- bath were almost wholly confined to the three public in- stitutions, already repeatedly mentioned. But after the lapse of about that period, he requested of the Presbytery that his attention might not be so strictly confmed as it had been, to those institutions — observing, that the scenes which he constantly witnessed there were so gloomy, that he found it difficult to keep them from having a depress- ing influence on his spirits. His request was readily grant- ed ; and indeed from that date till his death, he was left very much at discretion, in the employment of his time.* He never failed, it is believed, to make a distinct report to the Presbytery, at least once a year, of the manner in which he had employed his time ; and these reports were iavariably approved — In a few instances, he was appoint- ed by the Presbytery, either to perform some missionary services, at no great distanceirom the city of Philadelphia, or to preach in vacant congregations ; but in general it was left to his own sense of duty, to choose where and when his services should be rendered. He never ceased 1 t U; it ■4 * The following extracts from the minutes of the Philadelpliia Presbytery, found among Mr. E.'s papers, afibrd a specimen of the records usually made in nis case. " April 20th, 1808. — The Presbytery received from Mr. Eastburn an account of the manner in which he had fulfilled his appoint- ments, since the last stated meeting in the spring, and approved his fidelity. " On motion, resolved, that it be left at the discretion of Mr. Eastburn, as he shall judge it expedient, to employ less of his time in the public institutions of the city of Philadelphia, and more in the places in its vicinity, which are destitute of the regular preaching of the gospel." "April 19th, 1809. — Mr. Joseph Eastburn made a report with respect to the discharge of his duties ; which being accepted, he was directed to continue to act under his former instructions." "April 19th, 1810. — The Presbytery received, and approved the report of Mr. Eastburn, and directed him to employ his time till our next stated meeting, agreeably to his instructions received at the last Spring Sessions." Truly extracted from the records of the Presbytery of Phila- delphia. , , > i f^, ■■■■ - • James P. Wilson, Stated Clerk for the year 1810. MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 63 to visit and preach to the inmates of the prison, alms- house and hospital. The whole change consisted in giving enlargement to the circle of his labors : and there can be no doubt that this was not only conducive to his health and happiness, but also to the extension of his usefulness. It should likewise be remarked, that till the death of his wife, he never gave up his mechanical busi- ness ; and, as will appear from his journal, he was some- times called to work at a coffin on one part of the Lord^s day, and to preach on another part of the same. But in no manual labor, which was not clearly the demand of necessity or mercy, would any earthly inducement have tempted him to have any concern, on the day of sacred rest. Yet when such a demand was clearly made, he showed that he was superior to all superstitious feelings : and those who knew him best, had not a doubt that not only on the Sabbath, but on other days also, his medita- tions were much of the things of God and heaven, while his hands were diligently employed in the use of his mechanical implements. The following extracts from his journal will show the nature, extent, and variety of his engagements, during the whole period which elapsed between his licensure, and his becoming stated , preacher to the mariners — The reader will remark how acceptable his services appear to have been, to almost every denomination of Protestant Christians. 1 808. — Continued at the alms-house, jail, and hospital, to the end of the month of April. 1st Sabbath in May, held worship at the village called the Rising Sun, in the forenoon ; and at the alms-house in the afternoon. At the former the people attended de- cently, and some young people appeared to be affected. 2d Sabbath — Held worship at the hospital in the morn- ing, and at a school-house in Buck-lane, below the city, in the afternoon. Had a very orderly company — collect- ed a number of boys from their amusements, who also attended. In the evening attended a society in the North- ern Liberties. 3d Sabbath — Held worship in the morning over the 54 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. ''ill k 1^1 lU 4 i '111 Delaware, at Camden. But few attended, but they were desirous of having the worship continued. In the after- noon, attended at the bettering-house, and in the even- ing in the Northern Liberties. 4th Sabbath — Attended the communion in the Second Presbyterian Church in the morning, and preached at the prison in the afternoon, and at a society in the west part of the city in the evening : — ^poorly attended, and some boys were very unruly. 5th Sabbath — At the hospital in the morning : attend- ed Mr. Welch, from Connecticut, to the prison in the afternoon. He spoke to the prisoners and visited the sick, and I assisted him. In the evening attended public worship. Ist Sabbath in June — ^A^tended at the alms-house in the afternoon, and at Kensington in the evening ; and had a very large collection of people, who attended with great apparent solemnity. 2d Sabbath-^Prevented by heavy rain from attending out of the city — assisted Dr. Green. In the evening be- gan to hold worship at Spring Garden, under very dis- couraging appearances — ^ColIected some boards and. fire- wood, to make seats for the people ; and many attended out of curiosity, who were not in the habit of going to any place of worship. Some appeared affected, and several desired to have meeting there again. "' 3d Sabbath — Held worship in the Pennsylvania hos- pital in the morning — at the new church in the Northern Liberties in the afternoon — and at Spring Garden at night. More attended than at first. 4th Sabbath — Hurried in the morning with a cofSn ; but went to Frankford and held worship there, both parts of the day. In the evening held worship at Kensington — people attentive. 1st Sabbath in July — Held worship in the First Pres- byterian Church in the morning. Had to work in the aitemoon, and hindered at night from going to Spring Garden, by the sickness of my wife, and unwell myself. 2d Sabbath — My wife too sick too permit me to leave home and go out of the city — had to work at a coffin and attend a funeral. Gave an exhortation at the grave for Dr. WilsonV congregation. MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 66 3d Sabbath — ^At the State prison in the morning-— preached for Dr. Green in the afternoon ; but could not attend society in the evening, on account of my wife being very ill. Supphed for Dr. Green at the new church on Wednes- day evening; beside attending my own society on every Thursday evening. 4th Sabbath in July — Had to work in the morning — heard Dr. Green — attended at the bettering-house in the afternoon, and spoke to the poor; visited the sick in the evening. 5th Sabbath — Held worship at the Rising Sun in the morning ; and back of the city in the evening, at a school- house ; at both places the people attended decently and solemnly. 1st Sabbath in August — Had to woric, but attended worship, and spoke in the evening near the Schuylkill,'in- a school-house. 2d Sabbath — Had to work in the morning before wor- ship ; but preached both parts of the day at Pine street church. 3d Sabbath— Supplied for the Lutherans in the morn- ing, and attended the communion in Arch street. Assisted Dr. Grreen in the afternoon, and held a society at Spring Garden at night. Friday evening, spoke for Dr. Green in Arch street meeting. 4th Sabbath — Held worship at Frankford both parts of the day. Was called upon to visit a dying son of Mr. Lesley's with the lock-jaw — he died in the evening. Sup- plied for Dr. Green in the week. October, 1st Sabbath — Was to preach in Arch street church, but obtained Mr. Kollock to perform the service. Had to make a large coffin, but attended a society in the evening. A number of families attended, who were be- ginning to perform family worship, and were addressed particularly on tliat subject. They appeared determined to go on, and look to the Lord for grace to help them. 2d Sabbath in October — Obtained Dr. Keith to preach in Arch street church, and Dr. Blair in the north church, as Dr. Green was sick, and Mr. Janeway out of the city. I went to the bettering-house in the afternoon, and to j, I' ji '. ill 19 MfiMOIRB OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTB17RN. Spring Garden at night — had a crowded house, and many in the street — some very vain and careless. 4th Sabbath — Preached in the north church in the morningf and gave an exhortation in the Methodist meet- ing in the evening, to a great congregation, who were very attentive. December, the 2d Sabbath — Preached in the morning at Spring Garden — ^in the aflemoon at Zoar, a Methodist meeting, chiefly black people, but very attentive. 1809, January, the 1st Sabbath — Preached in the morning at the hospital ; and in the evening at the Union Methodist meeting. 2d Sabbath — Preached in the morning at the prison, and visited the sick in both wings ; they were very atten- tive. In the evening preached at the black Methodist meeting, called Bethel, to a very lai^e collection of peo- ple, white and black. ^ February, 3d Sabbath — Attended the communion in the Second Presbyterian Church in the morning. Had to prepare a coffin in the afternoon, fcN: a corpse to be sent out of the city. Attended at the Union Methodists^ meeting in the evening. Concluded a prayer meeting, with an exhortation and prayer. 4th Sabbath — Attended a funeral in the morning, and spoke to a large concoui-se of people, at Mr. Potts 's bury- ing-ground. Held worship at the Hospital, and attended another funeral. March, the 1st Sabbath — Preached for Mr. Janeway in the north church, in the morning, and for the Inde- pendents at the Tabernacle, in the evening. 2d Sabbath in March — Preached a charity sermon in the morning at the Methodists^ meeting in Kensington, by the request of a large society, for helping the poor in tliat part. 4th Sabbath — Preached in the afternoon at the First Presbyterian Church, Dr. Wilson being unwell ; and in the evening opened a new place for worship, south-west of the city, built by Captain Moore and others, which was well attended. 1st Sabbath in April — Preached in the morning in the Fourth Presbyterian Church — assisted Dr. Wilson in the MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EA8TBURN. 67 afternoon, but was unable to go to the society at night, bj reason of the rheumatism. 3d Sabbath of April — At the prison in the morning — preached for Mr. Potts in the afternoon — and at a new school-house, built for the use of the Evangelical Society, in the evening, to a large collection of grown people and children. 2d Sabbath, May — At the prison in the morning, and at the bettering-house in the afternoon. Delivered a funeral sermon on the death of a pious blind woman, who had been long there. 3d Sabbath of June — Preached at the prison in the morning, and Spring Garden in the evening. The follow- ing week went abroad. Held worship at Trenton, on Wednesday evening ; Thursday and Friday evenings at Brunswick. 4th Sabbath, in New- York — Attended the Lord's Sup- per at Mr. Milledoler's church, and preached for him ^n the afternoon. Preached on my return, at Brunswick, and at Trenton. Arrived at home in time to attend my own society in the evening. Next evening supplied for Dr. Green at the Tabernacle. 3d Sabbath of July — Mr. Flinn supplied in my place for Dr. Green. I then began to help the German Cal- vinists. Preached, morning and afternoon, for them in the Academy. 4th Sabbath — Supplied for the Germans both parts of the day, and catechised their children. Visited a sick man at night. 5th Sabbath — Supplied for the Germans both parts of the day, and catechised their children. The number increasing so much as to require assistance by some of their members. All August supplied for the Germans. September — Continued still to supply for the Germans, except when I obtained some one to take my place — 1 then went to the poor-house, prison, and hospital, through the months of September, October, and November. At the hospital, in September, there was a seaman, who had been hurt in his back, which turned to a mortification. He was under great concern about his soul \ and for some 58 MEMOHIS OF TIIE REV. JOSEPH EA8TDURN. t \ •u i ■ 1 time declared he Iiad no hope of his salvation. Bat within a few days of his death, he said he could helieve in Jesus, and rest liis soul on him. He desired to be baptized, and was so, by the Rev. Mr. Alexander, on his dying pillow. He attended worship next day, and in a few hours after expired. At the bettering-house some professed to be benefited. 1st Sabbath in December — Preached at the hospital in the morning. A man deranged hung himself. His wife came, in time of worship, crying bitterly. Preached in the afternoon for the Germans, and exhorted at the Methodists' meeting at night. 6th Sabbath in December, and last day of the year, Mr. Burch having now come to the Germans, I attended at the prison in the morning, at the alms-house in the afternoon, and gave an exhortation in the evening at the Union Methodists' meeting, thus ending the year. 1810 — Presbytery met, and I delivered my report, April 19th. They approved it, and directed me to con- tinue as I judged best. ■ 4th Sabbath of June — Preached at Abington in the morning. Dr. Tennent being sick — ^gave an exhortation at Frankford after Mr. Doke, on my way home. 4th Sabbath, July — Preached at Germantown in the morning, and exliorted in the First Baptist Meeting in tlie evenixg. 6th Sabbath — Attended a funeral in the morning — opened a place for worship in the afternoon near Schuyl- kill, and preached to a small congregation. 4th Sabbath, August — Preached morning and afternoon for the German Calvinists. An impostor offered his ser- vices to preach for them, and was detected. September, 1st Sabbath — Preached for Dr. Tennent at Abington, in the morning, and at Milestown, on my return, in the afternoon. 2d Sabbath — Supplied the German Calvinists morning and afternoon, their minister being gone to North Caro- lina. 5th Sabbath — Preached for Mr. Alexander in Pine street church ; and for Dr. Green on Wednesday evening, at the church Northern Liberties. MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBUR5. dO sts morning »Jortli Caro- October, the Ist Sabbath — Preached for Mr. Janeway in the morning ; attended a funeral in the afternoon^ and spent the remainder of tlie day and evening with my sick wife. 2d Sabbath — Attended at the State prison in the morn- ing, exhorted and prayed with the prisoners, who were very attentive. In the afternoon preached to the poor in the alms-house, upon Simeon seeing the salvation of the Lord, and desiring to depart in peace. Luke ii. 29 and 30. 5th Sabbath of December — Preached at the prison in the morning, and at the Free Quakers^ meeting in the afternoon. We had a solemn and affecting time. Oh to be well prepared to end our time as we are now Ending another year ! The Lord pardon all defects and short- coming through it. 2d Sabbath of April, 1811 — Preached at Kensington; gave in my report to Presbytery the 1 8th of April, which was accepted, and liberty given me to supply wherever the Lord in his providence may call me within tbeir bounds. June, 1st Sabbath — Preached in the Fourth Presbyte- rian Church in the morning for Mr. Potts. In the afternoon attended on my dying wife, until she expired, between 5 and 6 o'clock, to enter on her blessed sabbath above. June 2d, 1811. 2d Sabbath, June — Preached in Wilmington, morning and evening, for Dr. Reid and Mr. Henderson, and ex- horted in the afternoon for the latter. 3d Sabbath — Preached in the Baptist meeting at Pen- nepack in the morning, and at the Fox Chase in the afternoon. 5th Sabbath — Preached at Cape May, morning and afternoon. Monday delivered a funeral sermon, and in the evening preached at Fishing Creek. Tuesday at Cape Island school-house. Wednesday evening at a private house. Friday evening at the court-house at Bridgetown. 1st Sabbath in July — ^Preached at Pitsgrove in Jersey. 2d Sabbath — Preached at Bond-brook, in East Jersey, both parts of the day, to a very attentive congregation. Attended and preached at Trenton on my way, in a F2 CO MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURM. i III In If ^ m schoal-house, to a few people. Preached at Amboy and Brunswick. 3d Sabbath — Preached at Washington, on South river, below Brunswick, both parts of the day, to a people who seldom have any to preach to them. 4th Sabbath — At home; went to the prison in the morning ; preached at the bettering-house in tlie after- noon, and visited the sick there. '\ 2d Sabbath of October — Dr. Reid, of Wilmington, had sent for me to assist him at his communion. I went and spoke four times, and returned better in health than when 1 left home. ' 1st Sabbath in November — Attended the communion in Northern Liberties; spoke for Mr. Burch in the even- ing. This week went to Columbia, and held meeting in a school-house, and both parts of the sabbath following, when the people attended well. Monday evening, spoke in the German church ; next day went to Donegal, and spoke in the Pj^esbyterian meeting. On Thursday, l)eing the day recommended by the General Assembly to be kept for worship, I preached ; also at Maytown, in the German church, and at New-Haven on Susquehanna. 3d Sabbath — Preached morning and afternoon in the Presbyterian meeting-house in Lancaster, and was treated in each place with more kind attention tlian I ever ex- perienced in any journey before, and found all safe at my home. Thanks be to my heavenly Father, for all these his tender mercies. 1812, January, the 1st Sabbath — Preached at the hos- pital, and visited in the different wards. »# 2d Sabbath — Preached in Spring Garden to a very attentive society. 3d Sabbath — Preached at the bettering-house. Was kindly received by the new steward, and all the orderly poor. Visited some of them that could not attend wor- ship. ' ■ •_,■'■-' ■ .,■-.'.,,'. ,r 4th Sabbath — ^Attended the communion at the First Presbyterian Church, and preached in the afternoon for Dr. Wilson. Wednesday evening supplied for Dr. Green. Thursday attended a funeral at Kensington. Friday evening spoke in Southwark. MEMOIRS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBITRN. 61 February, 1st Sabbath — Preached at the prison, and visited a number of sick con^ned there, who had com- fortable acconmiodations. Wednesday evening — Preached for Dr. Alexander in Pine street. Friday evening — Spoke at Mr. Burch's house prepara- tory to the communion. Saturday evening — Preached at Mr. Burch's meeting. 4th Sabbath of Feb. — Preached in the prison, and visited the sick men confined there, but found very little appearance of repentance. In the evening, preached at Spring Garden to a very attentive people. 2d Sabbath of April — Preached at Neshaniiny, in the late Mr. Irwin's congregation ; in the meeting-house in the morning, and at Mr. Samuel Mann's in the afternoon ; to a very attentive collection of people in both places. Came home on Monday with Mr. Jaudon. Tuesday evening held society for Mr. Burch's people. Wednesday evening preached for Dr. Green. Thursday evening at Kensington. Friday evening for Dr. Alexander, at Mrs. Casdrup's, Southwark, 2d Sabbath of June — Preached in the prison in the morning, and at the First Baptist meeting in the after- noon. Monday went to Camden, and held meeting in the evening there. On Tuesday went to Haddonfield, and was refused by the Quakers to hold meeting in a school-house, belonging to one of them in the town. We had to go to one back of the town, in a heavy rain, where the people attended well. From there to Moorestown, where we were received by Mr. Harris, and held wor- ship at his house. In the evening he conveyed us to Mount Holly, where we held worship afternoon and evening. Mr. Richards sent us in his carriage to Bur- lington, where I staid and preached. 3d Sabbath — Morning and evening at the Methodist meeting, and afternoon at the Baptist. Monday after- noon and evening at Bristol. Thursday, 16th July — Rode to Lancaster, and went to Lititz, a Moravian town, to see their order. 3d Sabbath of the month— Preached in the Presbyte- rian meeting-house in Lancaster, morning and afternoon, ^! m ill iji A MEMOIRS OP THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBITRN. and was kindly received. Tuesday evening, preached tit Columbia^ in a handsome new meeting-house, to a lai^e congregation, who were very attentive. Thursday evening, preached in a new school-house at New-Haven *^a rainy night, but the people attended better than could be expected. Returned to Columbia, and had society at Mr. M'Kissick's house, on Friday evening, and at Mr. Beaty's on Saturday evening ; people very attentive. 4th Sabbath — ^Preached three times in the new meet- ing-house at Columbia, to full congregations ; the people were very attentive and solemn. Monday evening, held society at Dr. M'Corkle's. Tuesday went down the river on a raft of boards, to a town called Washington, where a sermon had never been preached before, and had a meeting in an unfinished house. The people crowded the place, and some sat on the joists oyer our heads; the floor not being laid. Some were very attentive, others, out of doors, were noisy, and generally very care- less. Returning in the. n. '':i\ mi- {5'i''ii;;.i 1'^':' W :l t ■ r» ■ * M 4l|^ MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. February, 1st Sabbath — Preached for the poor; attend ed societies through the week. 2d Sabbath — The public institutions were supplied by those who offered their services ; attended a funeral, and spake in the house ; spake at societies through the week. 3d Sabbath — Preached at the north church in the morning, attended the communion at Arch street, and assisted at the prison in the afternoon with Mr. Warren ; attended societies every evening this week. fi 4th Sabbath — Preached at the poor-house, and attended societies as usual through the week. May, 5th Sabbath — In my way to the lazaretto stopped at Kingsess church, where a large audience met, but no preache: came ; I was therefore requested to preach, by the vestry, and the Lord, I hope, did direct and assist me — ^may his blessing follow ; preached again in the after- noon at the lazaretto. June, Ist Sabbath — The elders of Pine street church began worship in the court-house. I attended them in the afternoon, and preached at Spring Garden in the evening. Tuesday evening attended for Mr. Brodhead. Wednesday evening for Mr. Skinner at his society. 2d Sabbath — Preached in the bettering-house. Tues- day and Wednesday evenings as before. 3d Sabbath — Preached in the Baptist meeting at Lower Dublin in the morning, and at the school-house, near the Fox Chase, in the afternoon. Wednesday even- ing for Mr. Skinner, and Thursday evening back of Arch street church. 4th Sabbath — Preached at Camden in a school-house ; the people very attentive. The last Sabbath of June — Dr. Read of Wilmington wrote for me to come and assist him, as there appeared to be a revival of religion, and he was unable to attend to the duties of the church. Mr. Joyce and myself went and found much attention; he staid but two days; we had frequent meeting early in the morning, conversing through the day, and public worship ewery evening. 1st Sabbath in July — Preached for Dr. Read; Inde- pendence day united with the Baptists and Methodists, III MBMOiRS OF THS RET. JOnpR EA8TBITBN. 67 and held worship morning,, aflerooon^ and «1%xutig, to* getber, in the dinerent inec!iing-hou8ea,>wheB tke-peopld attended well, and highly approved bavin^ won&iy in- stead of parade. Thursday evening attenikd mtiet^g it Mr. YoungV Friday evening at Ne!i¥-Caitie ; &$ meft* ing very soiietnnk: . -,. . ^.i^^i.-.. 2d Sabbath — Had worship at five oVlock in the inoni^ ing at-WiJjnington, at ten ako, and ^br6e in the aftemooii. Mr. John Latta preached in .the eveiiiiig; returned hdmtf on Monday by water ; had some good inclined men in the packet, and a pleasant passage. Tuesday eVefiitig spi^ke and prayed in Mr. Brodhead^s society ; but my br^sliwas so sore wi<& much exercise, I did not ei^age. again tiiirou^ the week, bat visited the sick as called wv. November^r l^^^i ^^t Sabbatb-'^Teached at t^e ho^ pital. ' . • , 3d Sabbath-^Assisted Mr. Dpk6iri:themonnog,attefidi»^ ed at the north meeting-house for .Mr. Fattera6i4'#a|ft preaclwd £Mr tit^ poor in^tlte aftea^^^opo, - - .:' " On Friday #a3 sent for hymy brother, at Bnm»i«k]^ .who was yn^ sick. ,/; • ^d Sikbiaath---Pfeacfaed in Branswick momiiig and afternoon ; Monday evening at the landing, and Fridaj evening at Trenton. - 4th Sabbatli — Preached at Mr. Rose's above Tirentoa, and Monday evening in town; Tuesday returned home and found all safe, thank the Lord; attended Mr. Brodr bead^s society the same evening; so many attended, and placje confined, that the candles were near going out for want of good air. January, 1815, began on Sabbath day — Preached to the poor in the bettering-house from LukexiH. particular^ on the barren fig-tree; and had humbling views of my- self; attended societies in the week, and preached a pre- paratory sermon for the communion in Mr. Brodhe&d^ meeting-house, from Micah vi. 6, first part. April, the 4th Sabbath— Preached at the state-bouse from Hebrew x. 38 — " the iust shall live," &c. - 5th Sabbath — ^Preached lor the poor at their house. May, the 1st Sabbath— Spoke at the hospital; the steward conducted me to every ward where the people G 1 '• - ';l, Mi i; i 4l! it BttMOnUI OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURlf. W6re in their seDSes, and I gave an exhortation in each, and prayed in one as general for all, and for the institu- tion ; by this method more had an opportunity of hearing, than if I had held worship only in the large ward; through each week attended societies, and spoke in different places at funerals, and had constant calls to visit those who were ■ick. Jane, 1st Sabbathr— Preached for Dr. Row at Wood- bridge, morning and evening, and in Brunsv^ick on Thurs- day evening. :2d Sabbath — Preached in Brunswick, morning and afternoon, and attended a society in the evening with the Low Dutch. Monday evening preached at the landing. Tuesday evening at my brother's house. Wednesday even- ing in the meeting-house at Princeton, and visited the stu- dents. Thursday morning prayed with them in the hall ; many were very serious. Friday evening held a meeting tnTfrenton* < . -, ' 3d Sabbath — Preadied at Penington for. Mr. Roe, and in the afternoon at the river meeting. Monday evening in Trenton again. Tuesday, June the 30th, 181^, returned home, and found all safe and in good order; thanks to my heavenly Father for all his mercies. 4th Sabbath of September — Preached at Providence meeting-house above Norristown in the morning, and attended a funeral there and spoke at the grave ; in the afternoon preached at Norristown, and lectured in the evening in a private house to a very attentive peoj^e ; came home on ])londay, and found all well. Tuesday even- ing delivered a lecture in a lai^e society connected with Crown street congregation ; this week had many calls to visit sick in different places. October, 1st Sabbath — Preached in the Independent Tabernacle from Luke xii. 32. Fear not, little flock, for it is your father, &",. 2d Sabbath — i* ttended the Lord's Supper with Dr. Brodhead's congregation, and preached for them in the afternoon. Tuesday evening attended the society. Thurs- day was sent for to Wilmin^on to assist at the communion in Dr. Read's congregation, he being sick; preached on Friday evening and Saturday afternoon. r v ; w^ MEMOIRS OP THE RBV* JOSEPH EASTBVRN. 3d Sabbath — Joined in the coinmunion,gave an addresii at the close and prayed and preached in the afternoon, and gave an exhortation, and pra3Fed at night after Mr. Bell had preached ; came home on Mond^, aiid fouiid all safe ; tnanki to my dear heavenly Father for all his mercies to a poor unworthy worm. New- Year day, 1816 — belirered an address to the younp people of Dr. Brodhead^s congregation ; in the evening joined Dr. Wilson in a public prayer meeting tn his church. Tuesday evening shoke for him in a society. 1st SabbatL — Preached in the Tabernacle; att^ded societies through the following week. 2d Sabbath ofFebruary — Preached ibr the poor at their house ; attended Mr. Purves^s son Alexander, ten yean old, who experienced a remarkable change in the close of life, clear conviction of sin, believing views of salva- tion through Jesus, and full assurance of- eternal -happi- ness, in the course of four days. - \ • ^ . 3d Sabbath — Preached at the faospitd ; HA k laTg^ apd attentive bellection of the lame, halt^ and blind. 1816. Aftil, i^eSd Sabbath— Preached in the Sitth Presbytelrian Chiircfi. 4th Sabbath — Preached in the morning in the Taber- nacle, and in the afternoon in the hospital. ' May, Ist Sabbath — ^Preached to a large collectioh of children,' and visited several people sick and in distress of mind— attended a collection otadults who were learn- ing to read, on Monday evenihg,and delivered an address and prayed with them, and spoke in societies every even- ing through this week. '^ 1817. January, 3d Sabbath — Preached in the Second Reformed Dutch Church, in the afternoon, and assisted Dr. Janeway in the evening. 4th Sabbath — So unwell as not to he able to go from home all day — confined to my house all the week. Febniary, 1st Sabbath — Still unwell. -- -^ $ 2d do.— Still obUged to keep in my house, ^'''^'^^^y^^ 3d do. — -Not out H-om home all day. ~ "^ 4th do. — ^Attended a prayer meeting in the morning, and the Gooununion in the Second Presbyterian Church sr 70 MEMpIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. —assisted Dr. Neal in the afternoon, and Dr. Janewaj at night. April, Ist Sabbath — Preached to the children belong- . ing to the Sunday Schools — ^in the evening, assisted Dt. Janeway. Monday afternoon preached to a great collec- tion of children in Mr. Patterson *s meeting-house, and attended a prayer meeting in the evening. Tuesday even- ing spol^e and prayed in Dr. Brodhead^s meeting. Wednes- day evening preached for Dr. Neill in Spruce street. Friday evening assisted Dr. Jane way. 1817. Made my report to Presbytery. 3d Sabbath in April — Preached in the First Presby- terian Church, in the Northern Liberties, to a great col- lection of children and others — ^very attentive, and some much affected — in the evening assisted Dr, Jane way. July, Ist Sabbath-— Was distressed in the momine with a bowel complaiipt and very sick stomach, but was relieved just in time to go and preach in the north Presbyterian Church, Mr Patterson being away, when I was favored with divine assistance — addressed a lai^e collection of children of the Sabbath School in the afteroi^n, at half East two o'clock — attended worship after at Dr* Brod- ead's Church, and spoke in the evening in a society of the Baptists in Fromberger's court. November, the 1st Sabbath — Preached a charity ser- mon in Mr. Patterson's meeting in the Northern Liber- ties for the Sunday Schools — attended at the hospital in the afternoon, and assisted Dr. Brodhead in the evening. 2d Sabbath— Preached in the State prison to a great number of prisoners from the 1 6th of Luke, from the 1 9th ^o the end—some of them at first appeared very careless, but afterward they were very attentive, and many of tliem seemed to be much affected and wept. .,«,»i „:jGood Friday supplied for the Moravians at their minis- ter's request. i t ; / » \, 4th Sabbath — Preached morning and afternoon at Frankford. Monday preached to a great collection of children in Mr. Patterson's meeting, supposed to be above 1500. Tuesday evening preached in the Methodist meet- ing by request. Wednesday evening for the Baptist in |be First meeting-house. j -: fffi ■ ?■! , t>'' - -)»!r** MEMOIftS OF TBE REV. JOBfiPH EASTBUfiN. 71 eir miais- 5th Sabbath— ^Preached again both parts of the daj ^t Fraukford, and assisted Dr. Janeway in the evenine. April) Ist Sabbath — Preached for the Afiricans in the morning, and at the hospital in the afternoon. July 4th — ^Held meeting in the morning with a Baptist society, and in the afternoon with tiie Presby tenant — sdso in the erening. 1st Sabbath — Preached in the navy-yard iii the morn- ing — attended a funeral in the afternoon, and assisted Dr. Janeway in the evening. November, the Ist.Sabbath — Was at Evesham in the morning — assisted in public worship there — preached in Moorestown in the afternoon and evening to a very attentive congregation. This visiting in Jersey to be men- tioned to the Presbytery; they appointed Mr. Burch and myself to visit Camden, Haddonfield, Moorestown, Mount Holly, and Burlington, in 181^. Mr. Burch went but on^j^ There have si^ce been four meetins-hou^ built vi^fief'e t have attended. Two mUes beyond Wool i ^jm a, at a laige school-house,* 'womeo catted upon ' worship often there. ^ Sabbath — Preached morning. Falls of SchuylkiU. ^ ' '' January 1st, 1819— Preached ist Sabbath— Assisted Mr. Pa preached for the children o{ ih Seceder's meeting in Spruce str©« M'Cartee prayed last. 2d Sabbathk— Preached for Mr. in the morning ; assisted Dr. Brodhead at his communion immediately after; assisted Mr. Patterson in the after- noon, and spoke for Dr. Holcombe's people in the even- ing ; had a solemn time. 3d Sabbath — Attended the communion with Dr. Wil- son, and preached for him in the afternoon ; assisted Dr. Janeway in the evening. March, the 1st Sabbath — Assisted Mr. Patterson at his communion in the morning, attended a Sabbath School in the evening, where a number of Jewish children attend, and some of their parents. 2d Sabbath — Preached in the hospital, visited many iii7tojbav& at Uie the momins; School in the afternoon. Mr. at Spring Garden m M ''l'* u « '. it- id 72 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EA8T0URN. lick, and distributed tracts; rend one publicly. A ladj who had, when chained to the floor, retjucsted me to pray, was now restored to her reason ; assisted Dr. Jane- way in the evening ; both of us sj)okc and prayed. July, 1st Sabbath — Assisted at Mr. Patterson *s in the mominc; preached for the poor in the afternoon; at night ai usual. 2d Sabbath — Assisted Dr. Brodhcad at his communion in the morning, and Dr. Jancway at night; attended many meetings in the week. 3d Sabbath — Preached in the Seccder's meeting in Spruce street in the morning for Mr. M^Cartee ; at the hospital in the afternoon, and assisted Dr. Janeway at night. 4th Sabbath — Preached at Haddonfield in the morn- ing, at Moorestown in the afternoon. Monday evening at Mount tioWy, '!^uesday preached a funeral sermon there ; prea^ed at Burlington on Wednesday evening. August, th^CUt Sabbath — Attended a funeral in the mofniQg tc^ gH^ FVee Quaker^s burying ground ; preached in the jjSSJ/K^^^ the Orphan Asylum; W|B(ktber .very cbed morning and afternoon at tlte 3d Sab^ Falls 6f 4th Sabba men, mommg and conducted vi ;k>ber — Began preaching to the sea- ^rnoon ; many attended both times, ^ell. Some were affected. Having traced jKlife and ministerial services of Mr. Eastburn to the period when he began to preach to the mariners, to whom he afterwards devoted his stated labors, it may be proper to make a few remarks on his journal, and to notice more particularly some events of which he takes only a cursory notice. Of the journal his particular friends and acquaintance will probably wish for more, and others may think that too much has already been given. Not a fourth part of what he wrote has been extracted. In selecting the parts which appear, the design has been to present a fair specimen of the whole, and to show in how many different places and on what a variety of occasions this faithful mmister of Christ was MEMOIRS or THB RBV. JOSBHl EASTBCtlt. 73 eni)>Io)'cd in his MasterV pcrvice. Except when lickneM prevented — and it was onFv to serious illness tliat he ever yielded — scarcely a sabbath passed, in which he did not cngHge twice, or thrice, and occasionally four times, in some public religious exercises, beside many visits paid in the intervals of worslnp to the sick and tlie atOicted. On the sabbath on which bix belu>^d wife expired, we find that he preached in the morning, and attended her dcttth-bed in the afternoon. Iler complaint was a decline, 80 gradual ihat the time of her departure ceuld not be foreseen, either by herself or others. She was probably not in appearance more likely to expir6, on the day on wliich sne actually breathed her last, than on many that had preceded it. There was, therefore, no want of sym- pathy, or attention, on his part, in leavings her for two or three hours in the morning, that his public usefulness, which it was her desire as well as his to consult, might be interrupted as httle as possible. The only xv^ittea memorial which he has left of his wife is that quoted from his journal, which in the maouscript is surrounded by broad black lines. The following irjscription appears on a monumental stone, whicJi he 'Caused to be erected over her grave — ' v In memory of Ann Fastburn, ' • '"Si The wiA) of Joseph Eastburn ; Who departed this life, 1^ In the Aill astiurariue of her eternal happiness, ^^ Wb^ Through the merits of Jesus Christ, * k 1.. The 2d day of June, 18U, Aged 66 years. The following letter from her a^ed brother, on the occasion of her death, bears a pleasmg testimony to the excellence of Mr. Eastburn^s character as a husband and a friend — "Dear Brother — I received your letter, which an- nounced the death of my last and most beloved sister : and though it is inherent in human nature to mourn the departure of our dear and valued friends, yet when we call to mind her advanced age, her long and painful illness, her resignation and desire to be removed, we must ac- quiesce in the dispensation of that kind providence, which hath taken her from this life of pain and misery, to T4 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. Ill' J »■■■ t ' \i.\.4^ H , i ''■1 i ii the enjoyment of an eternity of bliss, in the presence of the God whom in this life she loved and adored. Yet but a short time, and we. shall follow. The longest human life is but a short space of time, and we may consider our- selves verging on the close — ^particularly myself, who am a number of years older than you. I can perceive my faculties, both bodilv and mental, rapidly on the decline. M^ sated appetite ^>r what is called the |pod things of this life, has often reminded me of old Barzillai^s reply to king David, when invited by him to spen^he remain* der ofnis life at court f " Please to tender my best respects to Mrs. Hall, if she still lives, and let me know, from time to time, how you and my other friends pre : for be assured I shall always regard with sentiments of esteem and friendship, the man who has, for so many years, been the tender and indul- gent husband of my dear departed sister. -ffw...^ ' " Your affectionate brother, " Wm. Owen. Sullivan County, Aug, 17^1911 » '* Mr. Joseph Eastbubn." -*' «i On the death of his wife, Mr. E. relinquished alto gether his mechanical occupation. The expense neces- sarily incurred by her long illness having now ceased, he found that his income from the investments in public stocks, which his industry and economy had enabled hifh to make, was fully adequate to his own comfortable sup- port, and also for contributing to the support of an aged and necessitous sister, as well as to some public charities of which he highly approved. From this period therefore, he devoted his time exclusively, and with augmented assiduity, to his evangelical labors. ' That part of the German Calvmist church in Philadel- phia, to whom the English language had become more familiar and intelligible than that of their ancestors, dis- satisfied with attending on the preaching of the gospel in what was to some of them almost " an unknown tongue,^' separated from their brethren in the year 1 809, and form- ed a society by themselves. They at first me\ 'jt worship in a large public hall, in what was then and still is usually MEMOIRS OF TFIE REV. JOSPJ>I| EASTBURN. 76 known by the name of the Old Academy. They ap^iYied to Mr. Lastburn to preach to Ihcin statedly, and it ap- pears from his journal that he did so, from the latter part of July, 1&09, till December of the same year, when the Rev. James K. Burch, to whom they had given an invi- tation, arrived among them. This people, who have since become a flourishing congregation, in connexion with the Reformed Dutch Church, have always considered Mr. Eastburn as, in a sort, the father and founder of their religious society. When his stated labors among them terminated, they addressed to him a very affectionate letter, containing the sum of one hundred dollars, which they begged him to accept, not as. a remuneration of his services, but as the expression of their sense of obligation to him, for what he had done to promote their spiritual interests. He immediately sul)scribed and paid over this sum to their treasurer, to aid the congregation in building their church. To the end of life he was peculiarly af tached to thifr people, and was much be.oved by them. The Sixth rref^yterian Church in Phiindelpbia was, in like manner, greatly indebted, in it& infant state, to the faithful labors of this devoted man of God. While they worshipped, in the court-house of the city, before the erection of the church edifice which they now occupy, he scarcely ever failed to minister to tlieni publicly, when they were not otherwise supplied : and his kind and as- siduous attentions in visiting their sick, and in attending funerals and speaking at the grave, gave him a strong hold on their affections, which he retained to the last. For a series of years, indeed, he seemed to be considered a kind of common property of the whole religious com- munity, in the region where he was known. If an efibrt was to be made to establish religious worship, in a place where it had seldom or never been known — ^if appearances indicated that a revival of religion was commencing — if a destitute portion of country called for some occasional preaching— if extraordinary services were required at sacramental seasons — if a minister of the gosi)el, by rea- son of sickness or infirmity, could not perform his ordinary duties — if addresses were to be made on exliaordina ry occasions — on all these and numerous other occurrences, ■; ' i» •' W^''^ I 1 ' '» *■ ^ ': 76 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. H* Fatlier Eastbum was always looked to, and ahvays, if compliance was possible, he cheerfully undertook, and most acceptably performed, the services to which he was called. Such was the tenor of his life, till he in a measure became stationary, as stated preacher in the Mariner^s Church. -r'f^-' :<*»•', ■;?■*->»'■ .*r - ■^^tm -^f\, I m ^' ■if, i-ii: h i'i ¥:l ,1 'i''^i IM 1 82 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. ^K Among other letters which Mr. Eastburn had received during the last week, and read at the meeting, was the following from Capt. Tubbs. Brig Commodore Barry, off" Cape Henlopeny Oct. Wth. 1U24. .. My VERY DEAR FRIEND, — Through the tender mercy of our heavenly Father, we have proceeded thus far on our vovage without accident, and all in good health. The wind is fair, and very soon, if no accident happens, will many waters roll between you and us ; and while we are exposed to the dangers incident to the watery element, may we never forget that God, who once said, " peace, be still, and there was a great calm." We are bound to a country where all are professed Christians; still they hardly have the form, much less the power of godliness — but Christ will one day (and O may it not be long, before he will) destroy that man of sin, with the bi^^htness of his coming. jff^ To me, a seafaring life has become painful, not only in the separation from one of the best of wives, but from Christian society ; for I can say from my heart that I do love all those who love the Lord Jesus Christ ; and in my darkest hours that promise has never failed me, " We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren ;" and I think I have realized the promise more than once, " I will never leave thee nor forsake thee !" — weeping may last for a night, but joy comes in the morning. : . I have the happiness to have with me this time two pious souls — I believe my second officer and one man bc- iore the mast ; and in fact they all appear to be fine moral young men. — B^ divine permission I intend to es- tablish the public worship of God on boards at least every Sabbath^ the weather permitting : And I hope, my dear father m Christ, indeed I am sure, we shall have your fervent prayers, not so much for our temporal as for our spiritual and eternal welfare. O how should this con- cern every son and daughter of Adam ! " What will it profit a man if he gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ; or what will a man give in exchange for his MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 83 soul,^^ is the language of Him who knows the worth of immortal souls. The pilot is calling, I must hid you adieu. Father, pray for us ; we know that the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. You have mj imper- feet petitions daily — and may the God of all grace be with you — may you have a Mariner's Church indeed, built of lively stones, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone, and grow up to a holy temple in the Lord — are the sincere prayers of your affectionate friend, ' Calvin Tubbs. Rev. Joseph Eastburn. During the five years which elapsed, from the time at which Mr. E. began to preach statedly to seamen, to that at which the Mariner^s Church was opened, he per- formed many occasional services in a variety of places. A few extracts from his journal during this perioid, wlU best exhibit the tenor of his life and hie ministenaJ en- gagements. 1820. January, 1st Sabbath— Preached in the morn- ing from Luke xiii. : The barren fig-tree. Many were af- fected — in the afternoon from the 11th chapter, upon prayer. 2d Sabbath — Preached in the morning from Deuter- onomy xxxii. 29 : " O that they were wise." In the af- ternoon from John i. 45 : " We have found him of whom Moses," &c. 3d Sabbath — Preached in the morning from Isaiah iii. 10, 11 : "Say ye to the righteous." In the aflemoon from Luke xiii. 24 : " Strive to enter in at the straight gate." 4th Sabbath — Preached in the morning from Malachi iii. : " Then they that feared the Lord," &c. In the after- noon from John iv. : The woman of Samaria. 5th Sabbath — Preached in the morning from Daniel v. : Belshazzar's feast and death. In the afternoon from Luke XV., particularly the prodigal son. March, 1st Sabbath — Preached in the morning from Matthew xiv. 30 : " Lord save me." In the afternoon from 1 Timothy iv. 8; Godliness profitable for all. 84 MEMOIBS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. m ■*'tU\ 2d Sabbath— Preached from Revelations iii. 20: " Be- hold I stand at the door," le part, in each of the meetines. .5th Sabbath — Lectured on the first 10 verses of £e 12th chapter 2d Corinthians: PauPs vision of heaven. Mr. Kennedy preached in the afternoon from Zechariali ix. 12 : The strong hold. I had to speak afterwards, as many appeared to be-^nder serious concern. July, 5th Sabbath— Mr. Osburn in the momin^ii^ii%^ turedonthe 5th chapter to the Esh^ikiBi^ IbHowed. In the afterhoonr 1 Bptake Urom Mlark v. 15: The man possessed deliveped. August, 1st Sabbadi^-I spoke from Hebrews ^. 24 : "By faith, Moses, when he,^^ &c. Addressed Sabbath schools between meetings, and assisted again in tiie Mar- iner^s meeting in the afternoon. Mr. Kennedy spoke from Isaiah xlii. 16. 2d Sabbath — Preached in the morning at sunrise in the Northern Liberties. Mr. Osburn preached for ^e Mar- iners at 10 oVlock, from Proverbs viii. 17. .1 spoke in the afternoon from Matthew xiv. 30, last part : ** Lord save me,^' &c. On Tuesday went to Princeton, and at- tended the Theological Seminary in the evening. Wed- nesday attended at the ordination of Mr. Stewart, and went to Brunswick. ~ Thursday evening spoke in the Presbyterian meeting. Friday went to New- York. 3d Sabbath — Preached morning and evening in the Mariner's meeting. Monday evening had prayer meeting on board a vessel at a wharf. Tuesday had worship on board the ship Franklin 74. Wednesday evening in the Mariner's church. Thursday evening spoke for Dn Spring in a large session-house. Friday evening had a ■¥i :^ 88 MCMOmS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBVRN. prayer meeting on beard of a ship at the shore ; many attended. 4th Sabbath — Preached morning and evening in the Mariner^s church ; very crowded in the evening, and very attentive. Monday visited the Orphan Asylum, and gave* an address to them by the request of Divie Beth- une, Esq., who kindly received me to his house, and conducted me to many places. Tuesday returned to Brunswick, preached there again on Wednesday evening, and returned home. November, Ist Sabbalh — ^Mr. Mead preached from 2 Timothy ii. 15 : " Study to show," &c. Mr. Kennedy in the afternoon from Acts xi. 33 : ** Exhorting with pur- pose of heart," &c. 3d Sabbath — I lectured on the 103d Psalih, as several seamen had experienced deliverihg mercy. Mr. Wilmer, an Episcopal minister, in the afternoon, from Isaiah Iv. . ■■r'''^*.. si 9abti8&— 'I^^rteadbed from Galatians iii. 34 : ^ Where- fore the hw is our achoohnaater,** &€• Mr. Kennedy £rom Philippians iii. 3 : *^ We are the circumcieaon," &e. Nineteen seamen signed their request to be remembered this day in prayer. 1833. December, 5th and last Sabbath in the year — Spoke from Jeremiah viii. 30. Mr. Osburn in the^ after- noon from Isaiah Ivii. 31 : ^^ There is no peace," &c. I read 'some interesting accounts of Ihe conversion of sea- men. A quaker woman preacher requested hberty to speak, and did. 1833. February, 4th Sabbathr—I spoke from 3 Cor. viii. 9 : " For ye know the grace," &c., and attended the communion in the 3d Presbyterian church. Dr. Bfod- head spoke in the afternoon from Genesis vii. 1 : ^*Come thou and all thy family into the ark," — we had much en- couragement with the seamen all day — many appeared deeply affected. July, 1st Sabbath — Lectured on the 7th of Matthew, particularly the 34th verse: A good foundation. Mr. Osburn in the afternoon fron^ Joshua xxiv. 15: ^' As for me I will serve the Lord." 3d Sabbath — 1 lectured on the 8tb of Romans, partic- -*-«w MEMOIRS OF TB£ REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN* 89 ularly the 14th vene: The leading of the Spirit Dr. Saiigent assisted in the afternoon from the 138th Psalm. On Tuesday I went to Trenton, and had meeting in the Presbyterian meeting-houiBe mormng, afternoon, and even- ing; several ministers attended a concert meeting; vent with the Rev. Mr. Clark to Ftemington, tmd haA meet- ings through the week in different DNuresi on Sahba^ I spoke in Uie meeting-house in the aay, an^ at the eourt- house in Ihe evening; many attended and some were much affected, old and young ; went to Amwell ; preachi ed in the Rev.-Mr. Kirkpatrick^s meeting-house and other places ; on Saturday had meeting in the church at Flem-' ington preparatory to the communion ; alao in the even- ing. Sabbath morning at 6 o^clock — ^At half past lO,' when the ordinance was attended, there wad half an hour^s intermission, when I preached again; also in the evening in the couit-house, and next dav in the meming, when we had the most solemn and affecting m^^ti$fggSi^ ever saw. I then went^to NBrnntwkk» i pa l i l ttiN* evenings there, and iMfeit the fint d«fof Ai^^ to New- Yoik. On mfirB^ Sahbath I 8pHope in the meeting-house, and mthe evening at a privates honse^ then went with the Rev. Mr. Clark, preached at different places until we arrived at Flemington, and there again. ' 2d Sabbath — Addressed the Sabbath school in the meeting-house, and preached three times in it through the day and evening ; had meetings daily around the country in private houses. ,/j 3d Sabbath — Preached five miles from the town in ft V ^: •■■•* 90 MEMOIRS OF TBfi BEY. JOSEPH EA8TBURN. meetinff-faouse, and assisted in the evening in the town; nett dajr preaehed in the meeting-hoiise, and afiec- tioBately the people came upto bid me farewell^ but had a serious meeting with some of them in the evening at Mr. Clark'*8 house. Tuesda^y came back to New-Hope, preached for Mr. SteadifoM in hit meeting in the after- noon^and in an academy at night; next day at Mrs. Neiy^s house in --Spoke from Revelations xiv. 14 : ^* Blessed- are the dead who die in the Lord.^^ Dr. Brodr head in the afternoon from Mark xiii. 35 : *^ Watch ye,^* &c. :- - ■ -"' ■ ': •• ••■•-.• 2d Sal4>ath — Spoke from the 23d chapter of Job: "Oil that I knew where I might find him." A Mr. Fer- tilMon assisted in the afternoon, and spoke upon the first day. Sabbath. 3d Sabbath—Lectured on the 28th chapter of Matthew, being Eister Sunday; Mr. Hannah, a Methodist minister, from England, spoke from Romans viii. 1. This week I made my report to Presbytery, which gave full satisfac- tion. August, 1st Sabbath — Mr. M*Iver spoke in the mom~ ing from Ecclesiastes tu 9 : ^* Know thou," &c. Mr. Scott in the afternoon from Proverbs v. 10, 11:** And thou mourn at the last," &;c. I had to take part in both; we had a crowded and solemn meeting, day and evening. ^ HBBfeoui or Tmt RET. josBFfl lAmnnDt n c. 2d Sabbatic— Mr. Samuel HelfebsteiQ tpokefrom 1 Tim- othy iv. 8 : ^ Godliness is profitable unto all things,^* Sic, In me afterridon Mr. Charles Nassau from Amos iv. 13 : ** Prepare t(r meet thy God," &c, 3d Sabbath — I lectured on the epistle of Jude to « crowded congregation of sailors. Dr. Sargent in thft afternoon spdke from Deuteronomy yiii. 2: ** And thou' shalt remember,'^ &c. 4th Sabbath— Lectured on the 14th of Matthew, from the 16th verse ; had many seamen, attentive. • In the af- ternoon Mr. Mi^ffin spoke from Mtdah ii. 10 : "• Arise ye,^^ &c. This week I went to Baltimore, and was kindly received by many friends, and spoke in several places of worship; on the last Sabbath in Ac^st, and the first Sabbath in September, in each momitis, at^the head of the basin, and m the afternoons at FeH^s Point, in sail- Ibfts, and two evenings in a large school-room, and the people were very attentive, and many affect($d; aHMy ' seamen itttended- there also; several capl«Fns ef vessen appeared to be jNOtiii meit October, Isl Sabbath^^Lectured on tiie 6th of Daniel; and on his character* Mr. Scott spoke in the afternoon from Revelation i. 7 : ^ Behold he cometh," &.c. 2d Sabbath— Lectured on the 4th chapter ;of 2 Tim- othy, particularly Pa'i^^s departure at hand. Young Mr. Taylor in the afternoon from Deuteronomy xxxii. 29 1 " Oh that they were wise" — this was our last Mariners* meeting in Cherrv-street, and a solemn day ; the'seamea returned thanks K>r the use of the place to the Sessi^ and Corporation. "f^ "" 3d Sabbath — Began worship' in the i^ew Mariners* church, being the same Sabbath of the year that worship began for seamen five years before-; the Rev. Mr. Patter- son assisted in the morning, and read Solomon *s dedica- tion of the Temple, and made some remarks upon it and prayed; many attended. I then spoke from Genesis xxviii. part of the 17th verse: " This is none other but the house of God ; this is the gate of heaven." Mr. Ral- ston read an account of the commencement of the meet- ing antl of the building — ^an anthem was sung; The Rev. " J Wl "| ii Wi'n|i;w l^ ii f ' .^. n MBMOma OP THE REV. JOBfiPR EASTBURIC Dr. Brodhead preached m the afternoon from 3 Chron- icles vii. 16. 1825. Janearj, Ist Sabbath-r-I spoke from the 13Ui of Luke : The barren fig-tree. Mr. Gary, from Calcutta, in the afternoon from Psalm nxiv. 8 : ^ Taste and see,^* •&c. . ' April, 1st Sabbath, Easter-r-I lectured on the 28th of Matthew in the morning. Mr. Matthews, an £piseopal minister, in the afternoon, spoke a few words. 2d Sabbath — I spoke i^pon erieving and Quenching thfe influence of the Spirit Mr. Cary in the auemooa from Psalm Ixxii, Jl 7 : *^ All nations shall call him blessed." - Sd Sabbath — Lectured on the first 5 verses of the 3d chapter of Solomon-s Son^. Bishop White preached Irom 1 Corinthians xv. 56, m the afternoon. 4th Sabbath^^Lectured on the 5th of Daniel. Mr. SamQel Lawrence^ Acts iii. 19. 1 made my report ta llift Fresh jte^ last week. July, Ist SiM>bath7— I lectured on the 3d chapter of Jonah in die morning. Mr. Mitchebnore in the after- noon. This, week I went with Mr; Steott t^New. Ca^. I spoke there on Wednesday eveninc in the Presbyterian meeting-house i next day went to Salem, and spoke there* Went to Bridgetown on Friday^ spoke there in the Court House; the place crowded. The Rev. Mr. Hofi* pre- vailed on me to stay with him over Sabbath. I spoke on Saturday preparatory to the Lord^s Supper; again on Sabbath morning. In the aftemooa spoke in the Baptist n^eting-house. On Monday went with Mr. Hoft* toward Cape May. Tuesday spoke in a school-house. Wednesday Mr. Hoff spokfi in the meeting-house ; Mr. Scott and my- self assisted. On Friday I spoke in the same place. On Sabbath morning Mr. Scott also spoke there ; I 8pokrd in all the way. 4th Sabbath — I again attended our Mariner^s church ; weather very warm. 5th Sabbath — I lectured on the 96th Psalm, but could not attend in the afternoon. MEBfOiaA or THE REV. JOSEPH EABTBURN. 93 Sjn>leinber, Sd Sabbeth — I apoke from 3 KinoB yii. 3, 4 : The leprous men. Mr. Mitcbelmore in the auernoou from dd or John : Tlie brazen serpent I was enabled to attend both parts of the day and spoke in the close. This week- 1 went to Princeton, spoke in the Seminary and at the College ; went to Briinawickt spoke in the Presbyterian and Ijovr Dutch churches ; from there to Flemington, spoke Ihere, and several places around there; the Rev. Mr. Clark was with me, and assisted ; we were much encouraged. 1B26. February, 3d Sabbath~I spoke from 1 Tim- otliy, i. 15 : "^ This is^faithAil saying,'' &c. Mr. Mitcbel- more in the afternoon lectured on the 36th of Matthew* 3d Sabbath — I lectured on part of the 32d of Genesis.: Abraham offering Isaac. Dr. Ely, in the afternooid, spoke from 3 Corinthians, iy. 17. 4th Sabbath — I spoke from Revelations xiv. 1 3. Mr. Eustace spolce in the afternoon. We then attendesNIift funeral of our good friend. Commodore Dale $ te Mari- ners went together irom the churchy and the ehHdmi belonging ^ the Sabbath school of the church, aiKin order* ^ ^ ' May^ 1st Sabbath— 4 spoke from Romans xiv. 17. Mr. Mitcbelmore oin redeeming time.. 3d Sabbath — I lectured on the 3d of the Acts,being v rhai is called Whitsuntide. Mr. R&msey spoke in the after- noon from 1 Thessalonians v. 19: "Quench not ve Spirit" 3d Sabbath — ^The General Assembly were in sessiofi, and several of them attended. Mr. Woodbridge spoke in the morning from Isaiah Iv. 3: "Wherefore do ye spend money," &c. — Mr. Curry lectured in the afternoon from Matthew xi. 19. <« 4th Sabbath — ^Dr. Jennings preached in the morning from Hebrews vi. 19: The anchor of hope— -well ap- plied. Mr. Casner in the afternoon, from Isaiah Iv. first 3 verses. July, 3d Sabbath — I was at Reading, spoke in Dr. Greir's church, and addressed the Sunday schools who collected in the church in the afternoon. 4th Sabbath — I supplied for Mr., Nsissau «^t. Providence !^- \-> 04 BIBMOnS or THE RKT. JOSBPH EAiTBtTRll. in the morning, and at Ndrristown in the evening, and had several pfajer meetines in the week : also attended ft public meetine with the Rer. Mh Clay« in his chnreh. Tue Lord kindly supported me, and brought me home in safety, and this week had a meeting on "board the Ship Algonquin; many attended ; very orderly. 5th Sabbath — Attended the Mariner^i church in the morning; not- well. - -- ; ■ ;> - September, 3d Sabbath — The se&men of ^e Ship Benjamin Rush presented a small ship to the Marinehi* church, and desired to fix it there, which was allowed. The captain named it Beulah, from the 62d chapter of Isaiah, 4th verse. I therefore read the whole chapter, made some remarks on it, and then proceeded to im- prove -the difierent parts of a ship, and the blessing of navigation in discovering our land of liberty. Mr. Mal- colm spoke, in die -afternoon from the 10th Psalm, 13th 4fli l^bbalb— I lectured on the 3d chapter of Jonah ; was onweH; did not go back in the afternoon. ^October, 3d Sabbath-^Being't>ur annlveisary, sev^ years since we began Mariner^s church. I spoke In the morning from H^ai ii. 9i *»The glory of the latter house,^ &c. Mr. Eustace in the afternoon from Hebrews X. 30 : " Vengeance bekingeth," &e. Nov. 3d Sabbath — I was at Baltimore at the opening of the Marine^'^s meeting. I spoke in the morning from Ha^ai ii. 9. Rev. Mr. Henshaw in the afternoon from Romans vi. 23 : ** Tlie wages of s^n is death.^^ We had meetings every evening while I was there in different places. ' 4th Sabbath— I spoke in our Mariner^s church from the 14th chapter of Mark. Mr. Eustace in the afternoon from Romans viii. 28 : " All things work together for good,'" &c. 1837. January, 1st Sabbath — I spoke from Matthew vi. 33 : " But seek ye first the kingdom,^^ &lc. Rev. Mr. Shed, Preacher to Mariners in New-Orleans, spoke upon repentance, from several passages; 3d Sabbath — I spoke from Numbers xxiii. 10; "Let me die the death of the righteous," &c. Not being well. »»• BftMomg or TiiS REV. Kunspfi CASTBvmr. 9$ hureh in the Atid the weather cold, I did not go in the a/lemooo. Mr. Mitchelmore engaged to attend. 4th S.abbath----Mr. Shed spoke in the morning from S Corinthians v. 17. Mr. Fowler in the afternoon fiwn 2 Timothy it. €^ 7, 8. I addressed the children^ and took part morning and afternoon. i^pril, 2d Sabb^h — Mr. Dasluel spoke from Numbers xxiii. 10: "Let me die," kc, Mr. Mead inihe Vtemoon from John v. 39 : " Search the Scriptures," &c, I took part each time, aiid attended a funeral of a 8aik>r. ^ 3d Sabbathf--L spoke from Romans iv. 25 ; " Who was delivered for our 6£G$nccs," kc» Mr. Mitchehnore from Acts xxiv. 16:. "A conscience void of ofieac«i^* kc. - ' ^- .■ ^ ..-..■-:, ,*I Made my report to Presbytery last week. 4th Sabbath-— I lectured on th^ 6th of Hebrews, pai^ ticularly the 19fh versed The anchor of hope—^thiJi. has been blessed heretofore. Mr. MHthehn^ire spoke ji|Hfb# afternoon from Isaiah Kii. I : ** Whor h^b; IfmKNff dar report," and gave a fareiSreH addrc^s^ * 5tK &bba|&-^l spoke front 1 Timothy iV. 8 :^" Godli- ness is profifoble unto all things," Szc. Mr. Livingstoii fi^om Matthew V. 20: "Except your riglUeousncss shall exceed," &,c. May, Ist'Sabbath — I lectured on the 3d. of Acts. Dr. Janeway spoke from 2 Corinthians jiv. 18* 2d Sabbath — 1 lectured on the 6th of Daniel, partico'- larly on pray en M& Kennedy spoke from 9 Thessalo^ nians. « " . . • j '^ 3d Sabbath— Mr. Williams, from Baltimore, spoke from Matthew xi. 28 : " Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden," &c. Mr. Nevins of Baltimore, in the afternoon. 4th Sabbatli— rMr. Baker spoke on. standing idle all the day. Mr. Kirkpatrick from 2d Psalm : " Kiss the son," June, Ist Sabbata — I lectured on the 2d chapter of Acts. Many ministers being in the city, several came and assisted ; some from the General Synod bf the Low Dutch church — They spoke well on difierent subjects. 12 II i^ ■ f ■h. i i' I, 96 MtMOlM or THfi EEV. JOSEPH BAATBiniN. 'thit week I mrav very unwell, and applied for help Hi the Mariuer^s church, which 1 now expect 3d8ahbath— I spoke from the d3d of Ezekiel: The wamini^ of the watchman ; and endeavoured to be faitb> All, not eitpectine to be able to attend there much longer It was a very solemn time. 4th Sabbisth-^Mr. Efashiel supplied' for me morning tnd afternoon.' Mr. Eastbum^s journal terminates with the last date mentioned above. It appears that he apprehended the ipeedj close of his ministerial labours; nor was his ap- prehension unfounded; On a loose piece of paper found m the little book in which he kept his journal, he wrote as follows : — ^*F6r fheMaryner'^s Church, Jum 24, 1827. ^Jfo lecture from the 25th verse of the 6th chapter "SaXingi^aiid the foHowiiig chapter, as the Lord piay 4i- rect.-^^ng 79th hymn, 1^ book,. bi^nning with the 3d verse — 25th Psalm, 2d part, S. Jf. \ Where shall tfaejnan be found'— dJSth Psalm, 2d part, * Joy to the ivorld, ^ Lord >8 come.\ I wasnot able to attend on the above day, but was confined at home.'' Thus ii- appears that this faithful servant of the Lord Jesus inMide a preparation for addressing his chai^, which he was never able to use — a preparatidn, neither longer nor shorter than those whicii he usually made. Once after this, as we shall have occasion elsewhere to mention, and once only, he appeared before the inter- esting people to whom his heart and his prayers were ardently devoted, and by whom, in return, he was be- loved with truly filial and fervent aftection* But on that occasion he was able to take but a small part in the pub- lic service. It seems proper that the effect of Mr. E^stbum's la- bours among seamen should here be more distinctly and connectedly stated than is done in his^ journal. For this purpose, ^ writer, before proceeding with his narrative, will avail himself of the report which was made and pub- MEH0IS8 or THl HBV. JOSEPH EASTBUSN. 97 lished tlve year preceding that in the beginning of which Mr. £. died. ** By the first publication relative to the religioui in* ftructien of Mariners in the port of Philadelphia, it will be seeii, that the attention to this object commenced on the thii^ Sabbath of October, 1819; and under favour of Providence, it has continued to the present time, now seven years, with uninterrupted encouiragement and suc- cess— nnanifesting that the Divine blessing has attended this labour of love. The building which has been erected as a Mariner^s Church, being situated near to the Delaware river, in the very centre m the shipping business of the city, not only affords accommodation to about twelve hundred persons, but also fumifihes warehouses, producing a" rent of $873 per annum. The edifice is contracted in such a manner as \fk^titk ford three avenues to the Church, and sizop^ningi^ the- stores; and thus these o4)Jects are prevented from inter- fering with one ano^r. From the ^opening of the church to the present time,^ the worshipping assemblies have been generally very nu- merous, ana in some instances «o large that many per- sons, who could not be accommodated, were obliged to depart In no instance has the Church been Mosed on the SiU>batb throughout the year : and on but one occa- sion has the venerable Pastor been prevented, by indis- position, from officiating in his place. On two other Sabbaths, In the height of the warm aeason, he made a preaching excursion mto the interior of the state, for the benefit of a change of air, calculated to invigorate both the body and the mind. Here then is there cause to efect an Ebenezer of praise to the Great Head of the Church, who has been pleased so graciously to prosper an institu- tion established to promote the best interests of Mariners, and who has, in mercy, crowned the means used with such abundant and visible success. The language of one and another of the Mariners is, ** Come, and I will tell you what the Lord has done for my soul,'' believing that, ** except a man be bom again, ^mim dd MEMOUlS or TIIE RET. JOSEPH EASTBUKR he cannot enter into the kingdom of Gap." The roaster of a vessel stated, that this passage of holy writ struck him like a flash of lightning, and produced a shock frpm which he never rested, till he obtained a hope that he knew what that change was .which the passage describes: and he exhorted all within the hearing of his voice, to seek the pearl of great price* He died in the .full assu- rance of seeing the kingdom of God. Females (for it is common for the families of the Man- tiers to be punctual in their attendance) arc not less awake than those of the other sex, to the care of the soul as the one thing needful : and in the opinion of their spiritual guide, there is reason to hope that many of them are truly pious. One of their number remarlced to the Preacher, that her name was Lydia^ and tliat it was upon an occasion of speaking on the text, contained in the 16th chapter of the Acts, and the 14th verse, that the Lord was pleased 4q open her heart, so that she attended unto the things which were spoken. The work, of refbrnaatioii' is evident in many other respects. — The present highly respectable^ and indefati- gable Chief Magistrate of the city, hag receixtlyistated, that the Police Office is no longer a seat of Justice, as it for- merly was, for pronouncing judgmenton Mariners, brought there in a state of inebriation. A like testimony is borne by a distinguished officer placed over the Customs of the district — it being a rare occurrence for a Mariner now to appear on the floor of the Custom-liouse under the in- fluence of intoxicating liquors. But above aH, the trading part of the community, connected with vessels, are irtfi to testify to the sobriety and orderly conduct of Mariners at the commencement of a voyage, (exhibiting a most striking contrast to former days) and also of the reports made to them by their Captains, of the subordination and unexceptionable conduct of sailors whilst they are at sea. Well may it be, said, 'MVhat things hath God wrought among the Mariners !" " They that go down to the sea in ships, and do business" in great waters, these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep ; these cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses." " He maketh the storm a calm, MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURI^. 99 80 that the waves aire still : then thej are glad,' and crj, Oh ! that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men V^ Is there not much encouragement to hope from such facts, that the set time to favour Mariners is come, and that the abundance of the sea shall be converted unto God ? Many days do not now pass without JVfariners being seen who are awake to a general and particular Providence, while they behold the works of &e Lord, and his wonders in the deep. To the devoted and patriarchal Preacher on whom devolves the interesting chaise of ministering statedly to the Seamen, nothing could afford more joy and rejoicing to his heart, than he experiences in seeing the bread he has cast upon the waters, thus returning after many days, according to the Divine promise — and in contemplating still brighter prospects in future. The sum and substance of his preaching is, repent, or perish — betiev• The Church of Christ is one, and all the friends of Zion will feel a strong desire to promote her interests in ever J part of the world ; those however who are more immediately concerned in efforts ibr the religious im- provement of Seamen, will feel a peculiar obligation and desire to attend to this particular duty: such has bees the motive which has actuatei^ the a^ed and zealour Preacher of this Church to undertake visits to New- York and Baltimore In the former city great things have been done for the promotion of the JMariners' cause in general, particularly in the recent establishment of an *^ American Seamen^s Friend Society ,^^ the object of which, in ad- dition to the public administration of the gospel, is speci- fied in the following particulars. . ^.:^o establish ^* reputable and orderly boarding houses in title several seaport towns of our country, where special attention will be paid as well to the morals as to the pro- tection of the property and civil rights of the Seamen, each of which houses, when practicable, is to be furnish- ed with a reading room and a small library of suitable books.** **Re»ster or Intelligence Offices, where Seamen of good character may have their names entered and lodgings designated, for application by ship owners and masters.** ** A Saving Bank for the deposit on interest of such portion of the Seamen*s earnings as they may deem ex- pedient.'* ^* The employment of Agents or Missionaries to traverse the coast, visit vessels and distribute Bibles and Tracts, and to co-operate with the local committees appointed for that purpose, to induce Seamen to resort to the4)oard- ing houses under the patronage of the society, and to at- tend places of worship.** " The establishment of schools for the instruction as weH of adults as the children of Seamen.** ** To afibrd such aid as the means of the institution will ■4-' JX!.? instruction as institution will MEMOIRS OP TRS REV. JOSEPH EASTBUBICi jO$ allow to Marine preaching establishments and all kindred Institutions/^ The most entire approbation is given hj us to the oh* jects expressed in the foregoing articles, and the hope is entertained that in process of time the benevolent views of the ** American Seamen^s Friend Society," will be carried into effect " in the several seaport towns of our country." In Baltimore it appears there is in ereat forwardness^ and very near to completion, a new building designed for a Mariner's Church — the consecration of which is in con- • templation very shortly ; to attend which the venerable Preacher here is invited and expects to officiate;* At Boston, Charleston, South Carolina, Norfolk and New-Orleans, similar establishments have been made; much activity is known to prevail in the two first, and it is hoped, that there is no want of a holy zeal in the others. For the New-Orleans establishments jEfasv9fieD4 gentleman has been deputed by a society formed at that place, to travel and solieit funds in aid of erecting a Mariner'a Church. That port being the resort of nume- rous vessels from different parts of the world, afibrds a large field for benevolent exertions, and has a peculiar claim on other places for aid, from the circumstance that very few of the Seamen are other tlian strangers. the communications from London, embracing a cop- respondence with the Rev. G. C. Smith, the distinguished Preacher of the Mariner's Church in that ci^, and Thomas Philips, Esq. Secretary of the British and Foreign Seamen's Friend Society and bethel Union, have affoi^- ed the most ample and satisfactory information of the blessed work prevailing among Seamen in England, and also of the deep concern which appears to be implanted in the hearts of British Christians to promote this glo- rious cause, not only in their own land, but throughout the world* * K. i(. * « « « # In concluding this statement, it is felt to be incumbent, '«'i * It appears from Mr. Eastburn's journal, that he did attend and officiate on the occasion here referred to. K \ I I '■■■ ■ 1,1 c 1, fl ' ^' !A 1 ^4, I^R 1 ' i ti 1 m , ' fw^m i . 1 41 HMijM , i ^ ^m^m 1 ^^mm j t ^■in^ BBm I ' 1 Ki^K t i H^l i ■H ' ^HHHn ''*' it Hmjl MJ J. 11 ■ » '■ W A if ' 1 ■ i > H^^^HI 1 i, 1 ; 11 lip fl it i !i 1 [M , ■ft 1 ^ i jj t *'ii' 'ii ' 1, 1^ ■!! I- • 5 * ,r \u ^ ~1 li 1 ■ I '^; , t M t if iJ ' J .. ' ' «l ' ' 1 « <■ ■ii f- 104 MEMOIRS OF THE- REV. JOSEPH EASTBURIT. that we should he deeply sensible of the eoodness of God« in condescending so remarkably to smile on the effort which has here been made, to extend the blessings of the gospel to our sea-faring brethren ; that we should humbly and fervently implore his gracious benediction on all the endeavours we shall use, for the same purpose, in time to come ; and that while we earnestly solicit our fellow Christians to unite their supplications with ours in this hehalf, we should express our gratitude to those who have already favoured our undertaking with their patron- age and their prayers," The foregoing report is the last which has been pub- lished, in relation to the Mariner's church in Philadel- phia. Mr. Eastburn was present when it was read, and par^oipated largely in the pleasure which all the friends of the establishment experienced, in. contemplating its proiperky and its prospects. Previously, however, as appears from his journal, his health had, for some time, been less i6rm than usual; and his unabated exertions, when he Was verging on the age of fourscore, had doubt- less some efiect in increasing bis infirmities, and hasten- hig the period when he was to exchange them all for im- mortal bliss, activity and vigour. His decline was gradual, and he continued to preach occasionally, even afler his worthy successor, the Rev. Alfred H. Dashiel, stood ready to supply his place, whenever his feebleness might demand aid or relief. ,It appears from the journal, that Mr. Dashiel performed the last service for which Mr. E. made preparation, but which he found himself unable to attempt. On the 26th of June, 1827, the writer of these memoirs paid a visit to his aged friend, drawing near in appear- ance to the eternal world ; but not in much pain at the time, and in perfect possession of all his powers of intellect and speech. The conversation, which lasted for perhaps an hour, turned on scenes past, present, and to come ; and terminated in a distinct agreement to pray daily for each other, till one or the other should become silent in death. For the two immediately succeeding months the writer was, the most of the time, absent, from the city, MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 105 and at a considerable distance from it. On one occasion^ a rumour where he was, announced the death of Mr. Eastbum, with such circumstances of probabiHty as to leave no doubt in the mind of the writer, that be was no longer in a situation to be the proper subject of prayer ; and in place of petitions for him, thanksgivings for his edifying example, and supplications to be prepared to join him in a better world, seemed to be the incumbent duty of the survivor. On returning to the city however, hb was agreeably surprised to find that his old friend was still in life ; and that, on hearing of the rumour which had consigned him to the grave, he had said — ** as yet, there is no such good news." He even revived so much after this, that in the month of September he was once car- ried to his beloved Mariner^s Church, where he made ft short address to the Sabbath school children, and one still shorter to the mariners themselves. This was his fare- well interview with them, and was so regarded by atl: tiie parties concerned^ — It is almost needless to say, thai tears in abundance were -shed on the occasion. The organic disease of Mr. E.- which terminated in death, wj^s of the stomach and bowels, unaccompanied by fever till near its fatal issue. He had but little «ase, except when it was procured by the use of anodynes ; and at times his pain was extreme. Mortification was much apprehended, but it never took place. His'appe- tite, in the progress of his complaint, entirely failed, and the powers of nature sunk by degrees, till the lamp of life went out by a gradual extinction. To all who are acquainted with the influence which the bodily organization has on the mind, it will be obvi- ous to remark, that the circumstances in which Mr. E. approached his dissolution, were exactly those which are least favourable to clear perceptions, and vigorous mental exercises. The mind which is not clouded, or debili- tated, by the relaxation of all the springs of life, and the constant use of opiates, must be sustained and invigorated in no ordinary manner ; and that examples of this descrip- tion have sometimes been seen, the writer is not disposed to deny. The subject of this memoir, however, did not furnish such an example. The usual influence of diseasej ^ t . toe MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. and the usual effects of remedies, were, io his case, fully apparent His mind, indeed, suffered no alienation, till very hear the close of his mortal career, and then it was only fitful and partial. But in perspicuity, sensibility, yigor, and animation, he was manifestly different from what he had been immediately before his confinement. It was therefore not wonderful, that on spiritual subject?, as on all others, he was less excitable than he was woivt to be in health. He expressed no rapturous views of divine things. He used none of that language of ecstatic delight in God, and animated triumph over death and the grave, which is sometimes witnessed in holy men, as they draw near to the eternal world ; and wliich he would have been the last man on earth to censure or undervalue. But what he exhibited — and it was most edifying and de- lightful to see it — was the blessed effects of long habits of piety — a'n humble, stedfast assurance of an interest in tbe unchanging covenant of grace. If his hope of heaven was ever shaded, it was but a passing cloud, a momentary eclipse. For more than seven months, during which he labored under the disease that terminated in death, the habitual state of his mind was that of unre- served submission to the will of God, thankfulness for his mercies, a placid, tranquil, unwavering trust in the divine promises, and. an unshaken expectation of a speedy and eternal vision and fruition of his covenant God and Sa- viour. The writer finds, on consulting his diary, that on the 1 2th of January, a little more than a fortnight before Mr. Eastburn^s death, the following memorandum is en- tered — " I found at my house, on returning from paying what I expect will be my last visit to father Eastbum. I conversed with him, and he told me that he had not a douht, or a fear, in regard to his future happi- ness. He thanked me for -what I had done for him, in bringing him into public usefulness. I prayed with him, and was a good deal affected :" — Such is a short-hand memorandum, made when no thought was entertained of penning these memoirs, or that the record would \fM intelligible to any human eye but the writer's own — It W DOW published, as exhibiting the general state of the mind li I MEMOIRS^ OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. lot of this man of God, in the near view of eternity. He languished till the morning of the 30th of January, 1838, when, without a stru^le, he fell asleep in Jesus, and went to be for ever wim the Lord. te of the mind CHAPTER VII. Miscellaneous particulars and remarks — Conclusion, Of the excellent man who is the subject of these memoirs, it may be gratifying to the reader to know somewhat more than is contained in the foregoing narra- tive. It may also be proper for the writer to make some additional remarks. The person of Mr. Eastburn was in no respect peculiar. His stature was a little below the middle size, and hia frame was such as to favor the activity for which he was always remarkable. A better likeness of his face, in the last ten years of his life, could scarcely be given in an engraving, than is exhibited in that which accompanies these memoirs. — His aspect in younger life was con- siderably different. In public speaking his countenance and eyes often expressed much animation, and he used a good deal of unstudied, yet not ungraceful gesticulation — when much engaged, as was often the case, his whole body seemed to be agitated by the fervors of his mind. Still there was nothing of that boisterous, loud and en- thusiastic rant, in which extemporaneous speakers in the pulpit too often indulge. His voice was strong and his spe<;ch articulate ; and there was seldom any hesitation, or appearance of difficulty to get forward, in his public addresses. They were generally fluent, and always characterized by great solemnity. He was singularly neat in his dress, and in all his habits ; and he could scarcely refrain from showing his disapprobation, when he saW the want of an attention to decency of appearance in others. His mechanical busi- ness had not rendered him uncouth or awkward in his K2 108 MEMOmS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBUAN. behaviour. His address and manners, although destitute of polish, were agreeable and even prepossessing. The genuine influence of Christian meekness and courtesy seemed to throw a charm around him, wherever he went, or whatever he did or said. His natural temper seems to have been hast^ ; but it was so softened, subdued, and regulated by divme grace and habitual watchfulness, that it rarely discovered itself. On the contrary he was a bright example of forbearance, caution, prudence, and the endurance of injury and even of insult, without anger or resentment. One instance is recollected of his usii^ an expression which he after- wards thought harsh and unwarranted, and he could not be at peace with himself, till he had expressed to the offended party his sorrow for the oflence. He never in- dulged in levity, but was remarkably social and cheerful ; and kindniess, sympathy, and a desire to relieve distress, whether- of a temporal or a spiritual kind, were prominent features of his character. I'he best men are not without their imperfections, and that which the writer thought the most visible in Mr. E., was precisely that wrhich Kippis has noticed in the character of Dr. Doddridge, *^ that he was fonder of ap- plause, from every quarter, than was desirable in one who was so justly entitled to it." Yet it is but justice to add that this foible diminished as his usefulness in- creased ; till, toward the close of life, when both useful- ness and applause were most abundant, his love of praise seemed to be nearly extinct. He grew in humility, and in a disregard of all but the approbation and glory of God, as he drew nearer to the end of his course and the rest and reward of heaven. It was observed, in the commencement of these me- moirs, that Mr. £. had " no pretensions to genius, no emi- nence of intellectual powers or attainments." Such cer- tainly was the fact, taking the terms used in the assertion in their customary acceptation ; and yet, if there be such a thing as a genius for religion, he possessed it — i% is beyond a question that piety elevated his intellectual powers, in regard to every thing in which piety was con- cerned. Without piety, he would probably never have M£M0m8 OF THE REV. JOSEPH BASTBURN. 109 been remarkable for any tiling but his mechanical in* dustry, and good common sense. He does not appear to have been tormed for literar)' improvement, if ne was even capable of it He has mentioned, in his account of the former part of his life, that bis assiduous application to study, while at the grammar school of Dr. Robert Smith of Pequea, produced a pain in his breast, which compelled him tp return to his mechanical employment This was undoubtedly true ; but the late Rev. Dr. John Smith, who was then a student or a teacher in his father^s grammar school, told the writer that Mr. E. was not able to master the Latin grammar, and it is certain that he never did master it Probably the eiTorts he made, by night and by day, to effect what to him was peculiarly difficult, produced the complaint of his breast which drove him irom the school. He wrote a plain legible hand, but was far from correct in the grammar of his own language. His reading was much more scanty than tiiat of hundreds of mechanics, in situations less favorable than his own to the possession and perusal of books, ^mong his papers, the bookseller^s receipt fop Scott^s Commentary was found, dated January 19tli, 1809. This, there is little doubt, was the first commentary, and the only one, that he ever owned. The writer remembers lending him a volume of Henry's Commentary, several years before this, but he did not retain it long. He was 'much accus- tomed to compare scripture with scripture, and thus to be his own commentator. His memory, although not tenacious of the Latin or any other grammar, seemed to be formed to receive and retain the words of Holy Scrip- ture, and to be a receptacle for devotional psalms and hymns almost without number. He knew a large part of the Bible by heart, and could repeat the devotional poetry of Watts, and of some other writers, to a wonder^ iul extent, and with great accuracy. This too was the man who, in his public prayers and discourses, used his mother tongue with a readiness and propriety seldom exceeded by those who speak what they have not pre- composed, or studiously prepared. The truth was, that he threw his whole soul into what he delivered in public ; and this so carried his hearers along with him, as left 4 I' " 'i^ no MEMOIRS OF "iHE REV. JOSEPH EA8TBURN. them little leisure or inclination to notice any slight in- accuracies of exprcision in what they heard ; and nence his public addressefi were acceptable, and often delight- ful, even to nice and fastidious ears. On the subjects of religion he Iikewi»e seemed to possess no inconsiderable share of imagination, as well as a capacity for promptlr adapting scriptural truth, both historical and doctrinal, to particular subjects and occasions, which few educated J preachers ever excel, and many never equal. At concerts or prayer, and all incidental religious services at which special addresses were to be delivered, father Eastbum was looked to, as one whose presence and assistance were peculiarly desirable. Shortly after the writing of these memoirs was announced, the following unsolicited note was received from the respectable citizen whose name it bears : — , ^^•Dear Sir, A circumstance respecting the Rev. Mr. Eastbum, which fell within my knowledge, may perhaps deserve a passing notice, in your intended Memoir. Two of my apprentices were drowned in one of the ponds in the suburbs of this city, some years ago. Mr. Eastbum happened to be in the grave-yard, and seeing that no person was prepared to address the assembled crowd, he undertook that office, and delivered an extem- poraneous address, perfectly suited to the occasion — one of the most affecting I ever heard in my life. Yours very respectfully, . February 9th. . Mathew Carey. The following extracts from a letter which had been solicited from the Rev. William S. Plumer of North Carolina, will illustrate several traits in the character of Mr. E., as well as give the reader a good idea of his preaching powers. '- fVarrenton, X C. Juli/ 7/A, 1828. Rev. and Dear Father : — When in the city, I promised you some little sketches of the life of Mr. Eastbum. * * # * In October, 1825, 1 visited Philadelphia, and called on ■ill -^r nd called on MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTDURN. 1 ] 1 Father Eastburn. When I fiibi called, he ^as not at home. 1 was told that he wan visiting the h*ck, in a part of the city rather destitute of pastoral labor ; but that he would be at home in half an hour. I accordingly waited until his return. At the appointed time, he came. AAer Christian salutation, he said m had been visiting — had seen many very distressed people, and especiallv one. " She is a young lady," said he, '* whose mother is dead, and whose father and only brother are infidels, and very bold in wickedness. The young lady is under soul- concern (a very common expression with Mr. E.) 1 got to her room, when her father and brother were froni home, and I talked to her much about the plan of salva- tion. Poor thing, she was very ignorant, and she is very much distressed. While I was talking, I heard some Eerson coming in — I was told it was her father, and that e would be very angry. Presently the door was opened noisily, and a man forty or fifty years old entered the room, in a very blustering and angiy manner. He first accosted me by saying, * And who are you?^ (he knew who I was :) I told him my name was Eastburn. * And what are you doing here ? We want none of your religion here. We have sorrow enough already.' * My friend,* said I, * I heard that your daughter was sick, and that her mind was troubled about her sins, and I knew that Christ Jesus came to save the chid" of sinners ; and I thought I would come and tell her.' Here a conversation ensued — the father became less irritated, and at last, be- fore I came away, he was willing that 1 should pray with and for his daughter. Now," continued the old gentle- man, " we can bring almost any body over, if we will be mild, and calm, and aliectionate." Before I left him, I said, ** Father Eastburn, you have been long in the service of Christ ; what advice would you give, in few words, to one who, like myself, was about to enter the ministry." His answer was : " When I was a young man, I asked Dr. John Mason, the father of Dr. John M. Mason, nearly the same question; I asked him what advice he would give to a young Christian. I will give you his answer — it was thi&: * When you are about to engage in prayer, remember what the object of ie;k m 112 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBVRN. prayer is. When some people pray, they seem to be paying their compliments to God, as to some great man. God wants no compliments. Learn to converse with the Lord, to talk with him. The secret of the Lord is with them that fear himj* If I may add any thing to this, continued Mr. E.,^ I would say, when you read the scrip- tures, do not read too fast. If, in reading, the mind strikes a rich vein of thought, do not call it back : let it go on for a while. This is the way to have profitable thoughts, and to be filled with the knowledge of God, My best and happiest frames are brought on in this way." This advice shows clearly that Mr, E. was a growing Chris- tian ; ^at he " increased in the knowledge of God, and in spiritual understanding." It is possible that some may have supposed Mr. E.^s talents far below what they really were. He was not learned ; he was not methodical ; nor had he any of that »opkomorical eloquence, which produces pleasant sound. "Words ought surely to be labored," says Dr. Johnson, " when they are intended to stand for things ;" and only then is there need of laboring them. Although there was nothing of this kind, yet there was a deep interest kept up in his public services. No man could look at him, and be disposed to criticise. Eveir man felt that Mr. E. was an honest man ; and therefore the hearer very much resigned himself to the speaker. - I heard him, in February, 1826, lecturing on the first fourteen verses of Genesis, 22d chapter. The first part of the sermon was descriptive of the age, appearance, family, feelings, and conduct, of Abraham. He often per- sonated Abraham, in the course of his remarks. Having followed this course some distance, he, at length, repre- sented Abraham as having arrived on the mount with his son — " Here came the conflict," said Mr. E. He then briefly summed up the feelings of Abraham, while "he built an altar, and laid the wood in order there." The interest he now threw into the description was worthy of the subject ; and would have done credit to any man. When he described Abraham " binding his son, laying him on the altar upon the wood, and stretching forth his hand and taking the knife to slay his son," it seemed al- . MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBVBN. 113 most as if the scene described was one we could all see. The audience was still, and hung upon his lips. " At this critical moment^^^ said the old gentleman, ** a voice was heard, saying, Abraham, Abraham.^^ These last words he pronounced very rapidly, and as we might suppose one would do who saw another in great danger. The effect was as great as any I have ever seen produced by descrip* tion. 1 am persuaded that one-half of the congregation involuntarily moved forward, rather raising themselves from their seats, as if to seize the father^s band, and save the life of Isaac. All this was done in perfect simplicity. A little child never spoke with more artlessness, or re- moteness from affectation. Institution of worship among mariners, — Mr. E. gave the following account of the hrst^ meeting for marinera in Philadelphia. " In the year we determined to have a meeting for the dear mariners, and procured for tha| purpose a sail-loft. On the sabbath, we hung out a flag. As they came by, they bailed us,. 'Ship ahoy !' We an* swered them. They asked us * where we were bound?' We told them, to the port of New Jerusalem ; that we sailed under admiral Jesus, a good commander ; that we wanted men ; that we had several ships ; that there was the ship Methodist, the ship Baptist,, the ship Episcopalian, the ship Presbyterian, &;c. ; that they might have choice of ships and of under officers, but that they would do well to go in the fleet. ' Well,' said they, ' we will come in, and hear your terms ;' and here," said Mr. E., •* was the beginning of our Mariner's Church — And now, when r.ny of them express a desire to join a church, I ask them what church they would wish to join, and I go with them, and introduce them to the pastor of the church, and tell him what I know about them." Thus I have imperfectly fulfilled^my promise. I have given you the most striking sketches, that I remember. I have given you only the substance. I think that what I have stated is strictly true, certainly not beyond the truth. — You can make what use you please of it. .# # # # # « , -, mfc ;•-;:.»- I n i\ .-.■ t I I? 114 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURK. In these memoirs Mr. Eastburn is frequently mentioned as the pastor of the Mariner^s Church, and is also styled Reverend, To prevent misapprehension, and indeed to correct that which has, to a certain extent, already taken place, it may be proper to remark that according to the technical use of the terms Pastor and Reverend, Mr. E. was entitled to neither; although, in their general import, it is believed that he had a good claim to both. Neither Pastor nor Reverend is technically or customarily ap- plied to any man who is not an ordained minister of the gospel^ which Mr. E. never was ; and the former term is used to designate one who is not only ordained, but who has the stated charge of a particular church and con- gregation, in which he both preaches and administers the sacraments ; and in Mr. E.'s licensure it was expressly stip- ulated that " he should not consider himself as a candidate for the pastoral office."* The Mariner's Church, more- over, was established by a joint effort of several religious denominations, and it could not, without some new ar- rangement, be placed under what is usually denominated the pastoral care of a minister belonging to any one of these denominations. But the word pastor or shepherd, in its general appli- cation to the duties of a minister of the gospel, refers chiefly to his obligation to feed a flock of Christ, of which he has the oversight, with spiritual food ; to watch over them, and in every way to promote their spiritual wel- fare : and never did a ministee of the gospel labor more assiduously than did Mr. Eastburn, to give to the people of his charge — his " dear Mariners" — a full and the most suitable supply of the bread and the waters of life ; to watch for their souls ; to visit them in sickness ; to warn them of danger ; and to " guide their feet into the way of * In this stipulation, which was agreed to without any reluctance on the part of Mr. Eastburn, regard was had by the presbytery, not only to the defects of his education, but also, and chiefly, to the state of bis mind in regard to the sacrament of baptism. It is believed by the writer that his sentiments on this subject were somewhat different before his death, from what they were at the time of his licensure. But at that time, he could not, if he had been a pastor, have bap- tized infants at all, nor adults m any form but by immersion. He could not, of course, be a pastor in a Presbyterian church. I y mentioned s also styled kd indeed to tready taken rding to the rend, Mr. E. leral import, th. Neither tomarily ap- nister of the rmer term is led, but who ch and con- ministers the xpressly stip- s a candidate tiurch, more- eral religious ome new ar- denominated [> any one of general appli- gospel, refers rist, of which watch over spiritual wel- ;1 labor more to the people and the most rs of life ; to less ; to warn to the way of : any reluctance : presbytery, not iefly, to the state It is believed by newhat different of his licensure, astor, have bap- immersion. He hurch. peace."-^To them^ tborefoire, he tr^is toily.and emphat- ically a po^for. .^ Jotibson'^s definitioQ ^tthe vrori Averind^in its gen- eral import, 19 ** Teneraibk { deserving rdvie^nee, eararc*}- in^ rQblic, as butr few cc^ld obtti^naiid; If aiiy should be disposed to noalre tbi "^e^se of Mr. E. a plea for the introdactibn^ofmeii into' the j^Spel iiiiotstry withoat more, educ^tibfi than \^e pos^esseC^hey poghA to be informed that they eouidjnotiiaye obtain^ hw$anctiotf^ or countenaiticef to suclx^a pleli. tfe never. t}ioi]^it;]^iii* self qtialified for the pastor^it office iM tbej^rase is^uioidf understood; and it ts bei^ed bie i^o I:ii6w, tfent he had not the **tt;easure** of theot<^cal fnadwled^V of which he could ** bring forth things pe# aid' olq^ m i^ stated charge. Let those therefore wKo aroire to he ^hat he was, have some good evidence that thenr ^liafificationk are equal, or similaf, to those \vhi6h he possfes^bd. The writer has always considered tiie case'1[>f'j^^sthurri at nearly wm^'we— as standing by itself. He' h^s never re- gretted, arid thinks he shall never regret^ th^ instramen- tality he had, ia giving to this extraordinary ixian the qual- ified Hcensure which was granted him. He "would vote to give it to another of lilkequalificatioiis, if another could be found. But another such he never expects to see. A man like Mr. Eastburn does not often appear— a man who had suth a force of piety, as far more feari. counter- balanced the wants and defects which must for ever, and completely, disqualify ordinary Christians ibr the Bf here in which he moved. . " ^ "-^j* u lU M8M0IBH OF THE REV. JOSEPH EiOSTBUSIf. '%■ !( .CONCLUSION. .,. It wa3 stated in the introduction to these memoirs, that a principal design in writing them was, io show what ** simple, genuine, consistent, fervent, active, eminent piety may efie^t,^^ even when unaided hy rank, genius, education or wealth. And we have now seen that such a piety, and sp unaided, did, in the case of Mr.Eastburn, secure to him a personal influence and esteem among various denominations of Christians, and among people of all de^riptions of character, that was truly wonderutK This is manifest from numerous facts recited in .these memoirs, as well as from the demonstration of public respect which was exhibited at his funeral-^a demonstra- tion which many have thought and said, the death of no other citizen of Jrhiladelphia could have produced. But- il IH *. 122 MEMOIRS OP THfi REV. JOSEPff EASTBURN. to the blessed Saviour, who loved you more., and did more for you, than any mortal man could do— who came down from heaven to earth, and died the cursed death of the cross, that the curse of God might not rest on your souls forever? Do you not know that although you will never see ' father Eastbum again in this world, yet you will see him again in the world to come ? Do you not know that you will all meet him before the bar of God ? Yes, you will assuredly meet him there; and there you will be called to a strict account for the manner in which yon have treated every address that he ever made to you, and every prayer that you ever heard him make in the Mar- iner^s Church, and every prayer you requested him to make for you there, and which he did make for you^ when you were going on a voyage to sea, and when you •Were for a^ay on the ocean. Truly, my friends, it will be an awful account that you will have to give up, and an awful condemnation that wHl follow, if it shall then be found that- you have not passed that great spiritual change, that being "bom again," which father East- bum used so often to speak to you abou^. A4as ! if it shall then appear that you were never tmly converted unto God, that you never truly repented of your shis and turned from them with all your heart, that you never truly trusted in the Lord Jesus Christy and relied on his atoning sacrifice, finished righteousness, and prevalent intercession, as the sole ground of hope for acceptance with God ; or that you never proved the truth of a supposed conversion by^ fleeing from all known sin, and by honestly endeavoring to obey all tlie commands of God — if this shall appear, it will be man- ifest that you died in your sins ; and he who once so earnestly and affectionately counselled, and warned, and entreated you to turn without delay unto the Lord — even he will then become a swift witness against you ; and you will be condemned to be eternally separated from your dear old friend, and from all good beings, and will be sent away to dwell for a long eternity with the devil and his angels, in the fire that never shall be quenched. Be not offended, dear friends, at this plain language. It 'ti, •i 'I -t^ MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. 128 is spoken in love and kindness to yoarsoals, and that the writer may deliver his own soul. What hat heen said is the truth of God, and such you will assuredly know it to be, either in this world or in eternity. Do not allow yourselves to be deceived in this great concern. Do not flatter yourselves with vain hopes, th^t it will go well with you at last, even if you indulge in sin ; and beware that you do not rely on repenting and turning ta the Lord at somie future time. No time, believe it, will be so favorable for this as the present. Even if you should die by a Jingering disease, a sick and dying bed is a most unfavorable place and time to make your peace with God. You may not have the use of your reason then ; and if you have, the distress of the body will be enough to bear, without having the great work of your souls' sal- vation both to begin and finish. Beside, if you reckon on this, you may so grieve and offend the blessed Spir^ of God, that he may leave you to yourselvest-^nd Itieb you will be sure to perish; ibirwidiQut Us gracious «&<• sistance you neverwiH repent You ought to recollect^ moreover, that yours is a Ufe of peril. You may be swallowed up in the ocean, without having a moment^s time to prepare for eternity, if you have not done it be- forehand. O do not delay or trifle ! Break away, at once, from all your wicked associates. If they sneer and laugh at you, regard it not. Let them not banter you out of your souls ; they are too precious to be thrown away as a sacrifice to the sport of fools. Remember that your Saviour bore much reproach and shame for you; Renounce all those lewd, filthy, intemperate and pro- fane practices, Mrhich destroy so many seamen, soul and body, for time and eternity. Set them all aside at once. Cry to God for help; attend mariners' meetings, where- ever you can find them ; and resolve, in the strength of the Almighty, that you will give no peace to yourselves, till your peace is made with God through the Lord Jesus Christ. " Behold now is the accepted time ; behold now is the day of salvation. Ih-day if you will hear his voice, harden not your hearts." . . 4 But it is known that there are some^ — and for ever blessed be the name of the Lord that there are some, and #■ p- 'f" Ti«l « i,«* >t4 -*. 1S4 MEMOIRS OF TH£ REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. would to God the number were much greater — who have received benefit, saving benefit, it is hoped, from the ser- vices performed in the Mariner^ Church of Philadelphia. You, dear friends, have an important part to act, and much, very much, will depend on your acting it welL If you adorn religion, if you constantlv show a good ex- ample, and use your influence prudently, and kindly, and .perseveringty, to promote piety and good morals among your brother mariners, the effect, under the divine bless- ing, will be happy beyond all calculation. It may be the means of saving multitudes of sailors from present misery and wretchedness, and from eternal destruction beyond the grave. Much is now doing for the benefit of seamen, by good people in many parts of the world ; and surely it may be hoped that seamen themselves will do all in their power to promote the good cause — to help .4hemselves,'and sen-e their brethren. But, on the other hand, if any of those who profess to have felt the influence of religion turn back, if they apos- tatize, or if, without complete and final apostasy, they for only once indulge in any of the gross vices of seamen, the consequences will be incalculably mischievous. O what a triumph will it give to the wicked and licentious, and what a hindrance will it be to tliose who are engaged in promoting a brtter state of things among sea-farii^ men, whose comfort, and happiness, and spiritual interests, have been so long and shamefully neglected ! And will any sea-faring man do any thing to stop and throw back this good work ? Indeed he ought to dread it worse than death. But be aware that those who hate religion, and the work of reformation that is going on, will do what they can to tempt you to practices which will, if in- dulged in, bring reproach and distress on yourselves, and be a stumbling-block to those who may be thinking of reformation. Therefore, dear friends, keep a good look out ; and take heed to all your ways. Do not rely merely on your own prudence and strength; but often put up earnestly that petition of our Lord's prayer — " Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil." They only are well kept whom God keeps. Daily ask grace and -'»■».' >- "I I BfBMOms OP THB REV. JOACPB KASTBTlllV. 125- gofdance from on hi^h. ^* In all your wap acknowledge God, and be will direct your paths/^ Much, both of ^'our comfort and your safety, will depend on your keep- ing up, as far as possible, a lively sense of divine thingi in your own soul^ This is the great secret of beinc happy, of ayoidmg ^v il, and of doing eood. When the soiu is alive to spiritual and heavenly realities, it so hates sin^ and so loves God and goodness, that it will, instinctively as it were, shun and stand at a. distance from any thing that would mar and destroy its holy pleasure. A mariner^s life is, doubtless, in many respects, un- friendly to spiritual exercises, and lively religious feeling. Yet this should only make you the mpre resolute, watch- ful and careAiI. There ia hardly a higher example of a devout and holy life, than that wliich was led b^ James Meikle, on board a man of war, and oden without a single religious friend to speak to. The thing th^efore is not impossible. Daily secret prayer — ^fervent efTec^cnir^ prayer — must not be neglected* • The bf»t a'dvafttages for this are, it ia admitted^ not often found On ship-board. StrU) Acceptable prayer can be performed on board of any ship, if only the heart is in the business^ God knows the heart, and it is this' only that he re^rds in prayer: and the heart may be lifted up to hioEi, m any situation in which we can be placed. You will have some op- portunities to be alone, and these should be carefully im- proved for prayer, devout meditation, and conrnuinion with God^ Read the Holy Scriptures as much and as often as you can ; peruse as many religious tracts as you can find ; commit psalms and hymns to memory ; and observe the Lord^s day, as far as your circumstances and occupation will permit. It may be that you will be called to suffer persecution for tlie cause of Christ; and if so, bear it patiently, perseveringly, and with prayer for your persecutors. But an exemplaiy and exact discharge of all the duties that belong to his station, and a respect- ful and ready obedience to those who have the com- mand, will commonly give even a common sailor fiivor in the eyes of his superiors ; and wliile diligence and fidelity in business is an important Christian duty in itself, -^ ^ m Mm i '4 126 lilSMOIRS or gpHE Rev. JOSEPH eASTB^RM. it aho serves to recommend religion to dfhers, v/tbr^ in 'diced than .aH the talk in the world, if this be neglected. It 18 doubtless the duty of seamen ta speak to each othe^, on the coftcems oT their souk.' This, however, inust be done discrei^^ and seasonably; o&erwise, it may •Ibe productiTe of more hapm than good. On the other band, there muM not be too \tiuch fear and reserve, in regai4 totiiiB Hung.' A nin^ bint or remark, kindly .given, ^d Accompanied with an ejaculatory prayer -that God niay bksa itvRia^ strike the heart of a profane per- son,4U[» as never to be fbi^otten, and may at last be the means of saving las soul. There have bejBn many in- stances of this kind, and they afibrd much encoaragemcnt to speak a word for God^ whenever a proper opportunity is offered. Alreligious seaman, moreover, who acts up to his t^ristian cl»ract^, will commonly hav6 the con- fidence of ^ a Inumber of his shipmates; and he oidght >aF!ii9e it, whenever be^uroperly can^ to converse. at some lei^ i^Ub we And aouftthes of them, on the great mat- iet^ot- (heir souPs sanation — Seaaoss^ of affliction, of slcknest, e^gecii^y^ may commonly be improveil ^mt tbis {Mirpose. Whenever tnere are a number of pious «€»> men ia the same vessel,^^ they niay greatly help and en- courage each other; an^.they ou^^if practicable, to have some stated seasons for social prayer and piousxon- ference. When on shore, tbey wi^l of course resort to a Mariner^s Church, if there is one at hand ; and they ought, h^ all means, to take alone with them as many of their shipmates, ibis possible. If there is no Mariner^s Church in the port .where they are, another place of worship should be attended^ Great care should be taken to ^d a proper- boarding-house, free from lewd and in- temperate inmates ; for it is on shore, and especially in a bparding«house where vicious practices are allowed, that ft pious seaman will commonly meet with the strongest tG«R]^tade, to do something that will bring reproach on religion, and pierce his own soul through with many sor- rows. It is a happy circumstance that pain» are now taken, in some places, and likely soon to be taken in more, to provide sailors with comfortable lodgings, m ^ MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBITRN. 127 ore m lected. > each wever, it may s other irvie, in kindly er-that ne per- be the lany in- Lgemcnt >rtanity acts tip ;he coh- e o\ight at some eat mat* tion, 4)1 r fer Hits 008 -sea* and en- able, to ousxon- resort to nd they many of lariner'a )lace of ye taken and in- Lally in a ved, that strongest roach on lany sor- are now taken in sings, m houses where no vice will be permitted, and where they may find books and companions that will do them good, and keep them from being led astray. The present is an age of missions — Missionaries are sent to every quarter of the globe ; and ships and sea- men are employed to transport them. Those who observe " the signs of the times ^^ notice with pleasure the erec- tion of Mariner's Churches, and the zeal that has been awakened to promote the spiritual good of seamen, at the very time when " swift ships " are carrying the heralds of salvation to the heathen, even to the ends of the earth: and they remark with great interest, that in the glowing description given of " the latter day glory," by the evan- gelical prophet,* a part of that description is formed by the declaration, ** that the abundance of the sea shall be converted," and brought into the Christian church. Hence they are led to hope that the time is not far distant, whea almost every ship shall be in very deed a Bethel, a bouse of God, with a church in that house — a company of joy- ful Christians, of pious seamen and devoted missionaries^ who, while they are sailing over the watery waste which divides one country from another, shall still, even on the passage, enjoy all the privileges of the Christian church : and when they shall arrive at a heathen land, shall be able, at once, to exhibit to the wondering natives, the worship of a Christian sanctuary in all its loveliness ; and thus commence the blessed work of evangelizing the peo- ple, with advantages hitherto unknown. Let pious sea- men pray much for the arrival of this glorious period — Let them do all in their power to bring it forward. Let them, when they go to heathen ports, or to ports where often there are nominal Christians worse than heathen, — let them show, at least in their own example, what real Christianity is. Let them co-operate, in every way they can devise, in the blessed work of ?-xtending the gospel throughout the habitable earth. Thus v. ill they imitate the holy man, the " Mariner's friend," whose memory is 60 dear to their hearts : and thus will they be preparing *" Isaiah LX. M 128 MEMOIRS OF THE REV. JOSEPH EASTBURN. to join and rejoice with him, in that haven of eternal rest which he has reached ; and where, notwithstanding the dangers of the passage through this fluctuating and tem- pestuous state, all who look by the eye of faith unto Jesus, as the great pole-star to direct their course, shall surely and safely arrive. .,^- T'ivni- THE END OF THE MEMODUS. •u ih ■r J. ''^.■' i ■**♦ ,* f*^'"'*^**/' tiij. m-i,-: ^fr*». *rf i Ik' i i 9 r ' :i!' fi% *■ ■ 'U:-f ■m f n i **•■• t ■•« ■:ih"i' V. • 1 ■*':i', ;, *.i4i f,?:- XW > :H' '^?-' ' ;•). ,"J* <«'*•» yt If Mt t-. '^IfHtk \ * J •• » ' ?. • , .•i;'\f.-:> -ifi 'i ' V*" • *>•••••• ;.• i:Vf: -'nil-. ■\ ".-^'•ll. ■ \ \*u W.<>"' 1,W»S>-' 4^1. ..„-,»« lal rest ing the id tem- > JesuSf surely I. ^- t*mi: APPENDIX, ^*|l ^0. T*.'*^' w^^ 3S -|*(^«rc4« \^tr: f Mr. Eastburn received a very large number of letters, duriug the period of his ministry. Two or three of these, or extracts from them, have already been published in newspapers ; but many others have never as yet appet^ ed in print It is supposed that a few of them will gratify, and it is hoped be useful to, the readers of his memoirs. They are therefore here subjoined in an Appendix; together with some other papers which were selected and preserved by Mr. Eastburn. It were to be wished that his own letters to his correspondents could have been obtained, and inserted along with those to him. But of these letters, copies of only two were found among his papers. These are all that we are able to publish at present. , . , v.f. iT};'"/-^v ;/ ,»uvv ,'-j4;; ,!.; 'tv ^.i fi*tt1l--'f. ■'■■K'f'i^t "jr,* '.'.,* ; }i #. si.'V>'< -^ ' i ,/, l.ftTS**''' ','i >r-T'''-i'^ ■>■?; ^ >^"i. - ,.„ \,:i-: ■' ( J M ,''■' % A- . ^^^*M^ > I •• 5 > . 1- . '.■'.-X ih *i !'i>^" ,:«'?'*'* ;'"'.'ff"'i'''^r T .1 Hi'' ■:■'•!■ • .' •!-. ■V i'. • ■-■*-: .:. i' . V , , ': , * •■'I V* v^J •jmil l|f| ■: jlj 130 I APPENDIX. LETTERS. •, From Mr, Eattburn to Mr, Reynolds. Dear Mr. Reynalds, — I have just received your very friendly letter of the 17th of July last. It was handed to me in our Mariner's Church, by a sailor from New- York, and contains much pleasing intelligence of your progress in pronioting the cause of our precious Saviour, and of the bringing in of the poor seamen, who had been say- ing, " no man cares for Jack Tar's soul," — nor did they care for their own souls. The Rev. Mr. Whitfield said it was a strange thing to think, that a sailor could find the main-top-bolin of a ship in the darkest night that ever was, and yert: could not find a church door of a sunshining day. But now they seek for churches and prayer meetings, and it is to be hoped the time to favor them is come, and that the abundance of the sea is coming in ; and may we not hope that he that called seamen to be his disciples at the first spread of the gospel, is now calling many of them to be his messengers, to carry the gospel round the globe they traverse ? I am happy to declare, that I have good reason to believe we have evidences of the power of the Lord turning some bold hardened seamen, from being bold in the service of Satan to be bold in the service of their Lord and master; and we hope the good work among them is increasing. Our place of worship, which will seat twelve hundred, is generally crowded and very solemn. Many are deeply afiected, and request to be prayed for ; and when away they do not foi^et to write, and show that their impressions have not left them. We have no regular committees to conduct our affairs. Robert Ralston, Esq. is the principal manager of all the temporal concerns of the church. He, with Commodore Richard Dale, and a man belonging to the Society of Friends or Quakers, were the trustees who bought the ground. Commodore Dale is dead. I expect a report of the church will be published soon, but fear not in time to send you a copy of it. Dea Bethur of you waited attentic who [\ honte, until n me as ] and ma alarme( to have painful that be them o] I visite( and va alarmec bidding temptei or desf me, anc to those Our M{ many a meeting cern, ai came 1: street, before, and cor declare* a great much b I am Herald APPENDIX. 13 ^-^■■\t'.^ ->;%t To Mr, Bethune, Dear Sir, — I was in hopes of seeing you and Mrs. Bethune on your return from Carlisle, but did not know of your passing through Philadelphia, or I should have waited upon you ; as I feel obligated to you for your kind attention to me when in New- York, and to many more, who far exceeded my expectation. Since my return home, I have been fully engaged as usual in visiting daily, until my old frame calls for rest. Many here look upon me as public property, and demand my attention to them : and many of them belong to no place of worship, but are alarmed when in sickness with fears of death, and desire to have a prayer as a passport to heaven. It is indeed a painful part of my calls, to find so many ignorant of all that belongs to their soul^s concerns, and to have to warn them of their danger, when they are in pain and sickness. I visited one young woman lately, who had b^en very gay and vain, but brought low in sicknesSi she was awfully alarmed, crying out, "my day of grace is past," and for- bidding any prayer to be offered up for her. Thus the tempter is still carrying on his craftiness, by presumption or despair. Many of the seamen, when sick, send for me, and I feel more encouraged in speaking to them, than to those who live on shore and neglect the means of grace. Our Mariner's Church is constantly well atiiended, and many appear very solemn, and come in the close of the meeting with tears flowing, to speak of their soul's con- cern, and entreating to be remembered in prayer. Five came lately at one time, and another following in the street, who said he had never been so affected in his life before, and hoped the Lord would enable him to be bold, and confess him before men. One of our chief Pilots declared, when a meeting was dismissed, that he found a great alteration in many seamen for the better, and much better order and attention to duty than formerly. I am much obliged to the kind editor of the Christian Herald and Seaman's Magazine, for sending it to me. M3 133 APPENDIX. Mariner^s House, London. My Dear Sir, I received your letters, and the seanien''s letters accom- ranyiflg them, with pleasure and thanksgivings to God. have also this week had an interview with the captain of the Cambria, and learned from him, as well as from your letters, how greatly God is blessing you in your ' pious labors among sailors. While listening to the state- ments of captain R. in his cabin, I could not but exclaim ' to my good friend Mr. Marks, " Who raised up an East- burn in Philadelphia, to preach to sailors ? Cfannot the same divine power and grace raise up others also ? Je- hovah said of Cyrus, " I have raised him up in righteous- ness, and I will direct all his ways.^^ What encourage- ment, is this to prayer, especially when we recollect that it is said of Messiah, *^ He ascended up on high ; he hath led captivity captive ; he hath received gifts ^r ,'^ifien, even for the rebellious, that the Lord God may dwell among them.^^ May we all have an humble de- pendence upon the words of his grace, that our souls may be encouraged to believe, that when we are caUed into eternity, the same almighty love and mercy which called and fitted us to labor among poor sailors, will qualify many more to take our place, unto whom it shall be said, ** other men have labored, and ye have entered into their labors." I praise God, my brother, for your health and strength; and I pray it may continue yet a little longer, until the work is more established in the world among sailors. God has done great things for you, in giving you a heart to love them, and giving them a heart to love you. Depend upon it, you are not forgotten in our prayers. Many in England, when they read of your humble and pious efforts, cease not to make mention of you in their prayers. O that Abraham^s God may bless you, and make you a blessing. The committee of the London Mariner^s Church and Rivermen^s Bethel Union, beg your acceptance of an en- f raving of the church ; they rejoice to know that the iOrd in mercy still spares you. I should be glad to hear how you first became a sailor^s Preacher. Certainly Je« APPENDIX. 135 hovah has some great designs of mercy in causing all these great things in our day, to be wrought for guilty manners. May the Lord abundantly strengthen, bless, and sanctify you and your generous efforts for his glory. I am yours affectionately, My 22iZ. . G. C. Smith. Philadelphia^ January 18/A, 1810. Respected Friend, The trustees of the " Evangelical Reformed Congrega- tion," in justice to their feelings, cannot forbear expressing their sincere thanks to you for the many services you have rendered the congregation, and in being instruniental (under God) of adding another church to the cause of Christ, ^e trust and hope you will visit the congrega- tion, when assembled together, as often as may be con- venient to your engagements, and address them ocg«« sionally if requisite. We have enclosed one hundred dollars, to be appropriated by you to such use as you may deem proper ; out do not wish it to be considered as an adequate compensation for your services : we are sorry the funds of the congregation will not admit of enlarging the sum at present We sincerely wish that when many shall come from north to south, and from east to west, and sit in the Re- deemer's kingdom, you may be one of that happy num- ber, and enter into the joys of the Lord. ^ . , ,^ Signed in behalf of the Trustees, Philip Peltz, President. Matthias Gebler, Secretary. Rev. Joseph Eastburn. [The foregoinff letter is written on one side of a leaf of letter paper; and on me other side is found the following receipt :] — Received, March 3d, 1810, of the Rev. Joseph East- bum, one hundred dollars, as a subscription towards building a church, for the Second Reformed Congre- gation. Daniel Sutter, Treasurer. 'V I 134 APPENDIX. ;v■^^i/i..> Ili t V^:'»«'^ r.M If' ' StR London Mariner''s Church and RivermerCs . * Bethel Union, Wellclose Square, u.* Rev. and Dear Sir, The committee of this institution have requested me to express the great gratification we all felt, by the very animating communication you have sent to our friend and minister, the Rev. G. C. Smith, containing a delight- ful detail of the Lord's gracious dealings, as they regard your own individual experience, and the establishment and f)rosperity of that cause in wh:ch you have been so long and usefully engaged ; and in which we all take a lively interest, while we lament that most of us should so long have remained indifferent to the eternal concerns of seamen ; which sinful apathy i^ight have continued among us, had not the Lord — who is never at a loss to raise up agents to be workers together with himself, to <5arry on his designs of mercy when the set time is come to favor any people — have stirred up Mr. S. on this side the Atlantic, as he has you on the other : for of most, if not of all ministers of the gospel in this country, his la- bors are more abundant, for which God has furnished him with strength of body and mind above most of his fellows. Were it not for his great exertions in travelling and preaching nearly in all parts of the kingdom, to col- lect for this society, which you may be aware is exten- sive in its operations and attended with great expense, we should not know hovir to carry it on. The time for "the watchmen to see eye to eye'^ is not yet arrived; and but few of onr ministers, comparatively, care about sailors, but we doubt not they soon will, as they see the work proceed. Indeed, one and another now almost every week, are virtually saying, " we will go with you, for we see the Lord is with you." Mr. S. has collected nearly £200 for the cause during the last five weeks, in different inland towns ; which evinces that the concern of the inhabitants for mariners is at length awakened ; but so ignorant were pastors and people of the maritime world, in some of these lai^e commercial towns, that Mr. S.'s description of a man of war surprised them more :A-- * APPENDIX. 135 than the seven wonders of the world ; and when brought to recollect that their own manufactories were kept open by intercourse with other nations, by means of ships con- taining precious souls, many hundreds have lately, and but lately, simultaneously said, *^ we will begin to do something for sailors ;^^ and thus auxiliary societies are rising up constantly, to assist by pecuniary means ; and monthly prayer meetings are formed, to implore the out- pouring of the Holy Spirit upon mariners all over the world. When we hear of you, sir, by pious men who vi&it our Mariner's Church, we rejoice and unite in spirit with you, and fondly indulge the wish to hear you there — but as that cannot be, we shall always be most happy to hear of you, and particularly from you by your re- freshing epistles. After Mr. Smith had read your letter, and I was appointed to acknowledge it, I thought it only a reasonable request that I should be favored with the loan of it for one day, but this (perhaps the only favor he would deny me) was not granted: he thinks it is not probable he shall be gratified by receiving many more epistles written with your own hand — therefore makes choice of it accordingly. Put in one part I am more interested than Mr. S., where you alludie to the death of your son. My first deep concern for sailors* souls was ex- cited about nine years since, when I parted with a prom- ising and only son on board a merchant-ship bound to the West-Indies, and who died soon after his arrival. Though feeble are my labors in the blessed cause of God among our seamen on the Thames, &c., they are the most pleas- ing and profitable which ever occupied my time and at- tention. They are the most earnest and attentive hearers, and their prayers and praises are inspiring to the preach- er's feelings. May it please our heavenly Father to spare you yet a little while longer, that you may more than ever you have, see " the pleasure of the Lord," which is the salvation of sinners, " prosper in his hands," who, ac- cording to the years of your pilgrimage, will very soon say to you, " Well done, &c., enter into the joy of thy Lord." 136 APPENDIX. |*f! .* ''I [■}■■ ■■■■ .i Mr. Smith, and the committee of this society, most sincerely join with me in praying you majr finish your course with joy, and have an entrance ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I am, Rev. and dear Father, «, . y Your's affectionately,. . f V Robert Joyce, J{ov, 29, 1826. Secretary to the Thames Mission. Extracts from the letter of the Rev. G. C. Smith, dated Mariner'^s House, Wellclose Square, London. My Dear Sir, — ^'^ It is now about seventeen years since my attention was first directed, by the God of all giace, to labor more especially among Sailors. Iii' 1808, it pleased God, in a singular manner, to pour out his Holy Spirit on many persons in our ships of war ; and in 1 809, I began a, correspondence with the Navy, which left me at last in the direction of the spiritual concerns of nearly eighty men of war. In 1817, 1 was mercifully directed to the early prayer meetings among merchant-seamen in the Thames, and in company with my worthy friend, Phillips, laid the plan, and started the project of the first Floating Chapel, and the first Seamans' Society for reli- gious instruction. In 1819, I lamented to see our ex- ertions limited to one Floating Chapel ; and thinking the Bethel Flag would be an admirable signal for universal invitation to divine worship, if we could once get it uni- versally introduced, and recognised among Mariners, I determined to form a society of all denominations, and called it The Bethel Union. After three months' hard ]abor,and immense discouragements, I succeeded, through the goodness of God — and have since assisted to form most of the large societies in the chief ports of the king- acm, connected with this Institution. I started at much risk, and with only one person to encourage me, the Sailors' Magazine — which, by the blessing of God, I have been able to continue to this day. My place has been at the helm therefore for some years, and amidst a world of difficulties, dangers and anxieties, that some- APPENDIX. 137 times drink up and exhaust my spirits ; but hitherto the Lord has helped me. O ! how rich, how sovereign, and how free, that grace must be, that chose and appointed and called a poor, wretched, guilty wanderer or the sea, who had been a cabin-boy in an American brig of Salem — a cable-tier-strapper in a frigate — a common sailor be- fore the mast in different line of battle ships — and a cap- tain of the fore-top — an officer on the quarter-deck of a most depraved and horridly abandoned man of war ! — But so it is — By the grace of God I am what I am. Oh! 1 have reason indeed to cry out with holy Paul, " I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry^ who was before a persecutor, a blasphemer, and injurious." Ah ! fatally injurious to many ! — " But I obtained mercy." Surely I may add, that " the grace of God was exceed' ing abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Je- sus." O ! that this Almighty grace may give me daify evidence that my salvation and my mercies were intended as much for the good of others, as of my own soul ! so that I may indeed be able to say, ** Howbeit, for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first among my sea- faring brethren, Jesus Christ might show forth all long suffering, for a pattern unto them which should hereafler believe on him to life everlasting." Having lived to see at the ace of — — — , the cause which I have thus been graciously permitted and honored to begin, extending itself throughout the world ; I am now most anxious to consolidate and perpetuate the work in every possible way, and, in particular, by well-regulated and judiciously organized establishments on shore. My mind has for some years been deeply concerned for the horrid neighborhood of Tower-Hill, St Catha- rine's, Wapping, Shadwell, Lime-House, Stepney, Poplar, Deptford and Greenwich, all waterside parishes of infa- mous notoriety, where millions of sea and river men, and their families, have been hurried down quick to end- less perdition. A few meeting-houses of different per- suasions existed along shore, but they were wholly con- fined to their own peculiar worshippers. I had hitherto resided chiefly on the other side of the 130 APPENDIX. 1 It't • '•;« Tii ■ 'I river, where my friend Mr. Phillips lives, and in a neigh- borhood chiefly frequented by coasters, but I saw no one on this side, who ventured to act upon all the mass of iniquity that rolled forward on this shore. I have tried various means and plans to urge some others to this station, and to some suitable plans for extensive labors in it ; but no one could or would be placed in the fore- front of the battle, to bear the attack of the adversary, and fearlessly proclaim war against all his hosts, in the very heart of his undisturbed and uncontrolled dominions. These things induced me last summer to devote some' time to preaching in the open air on Tower-Hill, and in the worst part of this neighborhood, to some thousands of wretched sinners of all descriptions. I had thus many opportunities of announcing a plan I had long formed of having a land establishment in these parts, thpit should combine a .variety of essentials for their mor&i improve- ment, religious instruction, and general protection of Mariners, and their families. While laboring to diffuse abroad correct notions as to the real usefulness of such a plan, I was invited by a Norwegian to view a Danish church in this square : I was astonished to find a laige church, capable of holding about 1000 persons, and about 200 years old, with a variety of conveniences, had been closed about nine years. It was originally built for the Danes and Norwegians, and at one time the Danish and Norwegian captains visiting London, subscribed nearly £100 per annum to the support of the clei^yman, but of late years, by intermarriages and a variety of other circumstances, the congregation was much diminished ; and when Norway was ceded to Sweden and the Nor- wegians had become Swedish subjects, there was scarcely any congregation left, especially, as the more wealthy Danes about London, had become so anglecized and mixed up with our various English congregations, as not to require any distinct place of worship. Under all those circumstances, the Danish church had been shut up for years. I determined immediately to apply for it, and form a MetropoHtan Mrriner's and Rivermen's Bethel Union, that should embrace all my views of a land establishment. Happily after much labor APPBNDnU 18» fttid difficQlty I succeeded in obtaining it, and the Danth Elders kindly undertook the repairs of the roof and in* terior to a very great extent. Last December it was opened, and the reault has been most bless^. It is fiUed every Lord^g day, and incalculable good has been accom* plished. ,s,^-n i, ^.i » ;v .7 The situation is most suitable, being ck>se ttt fhe JLok* don Dock, where an immense multitude oftiupBhy fir general ports, and by means of which we can hold intaiv coarse with most parts of the world. It stands in tht very centre of what I may indeed caU HeUV DbminioD) for every court and lane is filled with thieves and crimps and prostitutes, and here thousands .of aailoii perish every year. ' ' The yells and bowlings and screams o{ the most aban* doned wretches, dra^hig sailors lo their dens, are to dreadful every night at eleven o^cIock, that l am qbl^ed to close up every avenue in front of the- house, left isf family should hear their language. We -arc. however id£> terniined through grace t» nut black -the torrent that would overwhelm London and make it like Tyre or Baforlon, when the Sailors should stand afar off, and «ay, AIm f Alas! that great city! We have a dnnestic MisBioB Society (^ pious females, who cover Tracto with brown paper, and go out every Lord's Day afternoon through about thirty courts and alleys, among ^e very wENI>!X. 141 Thieves, Jfews, Procuresses, and a herd of their eonnex- ioos. It was close to this square, that last winter ! haVe stood and seen such hosts of sailors and girlr pour into it every night, with brr^' y^ of rum, and the most horritl blasphemy, that my htj^.t has bled, and my soul shuddei^ ed, to think of the consequences. My hopes liave some- times in consequence been very low, and had"^ not been for what I have experienced in my own soul, and^what I have seen among the chief of sinners in other parts, I should have despaired and closed up the church doors. Judge of my astonishment when, being absent in the country for some days lately, I read in the newspaper that the Royalty one night was burnt to the ground, nolr is it likety to be rebuilt. A son of the late Rev. John Hyatt of the Tabernacle was, to the great grief of his pious father, one of the chief actors. Do not^ those two circumstances, the opening Of a Manners' Church, and the burning down of the Sailor's Theatre, indicate SOBM kind designs of mercy towards Mariners, from the nr &rst an- niversary : on Wednesday morning 1 took him. through all the immense district of Docks and Shipping on l£e river. At St. Catharine's, I showed him a place catted Hell- lane. An immense number of the most horrid and aban- doned prostitutes were seated as usual ^ on chairs in the lane, waiting to seize upon every sailor that ventured into this infernal cavern of wickedness. Having advanced about twenty yards into this lane, I stood with Mr. M. pointing to the women, and describing the horrible scenes that frequently abound here. The wretched creatures saw us, and knew me ; and Mr. M. being also dressed in black, they naturally suspected what we were, and to our utter astonishment, every one of them drew back, re- entered their houses, pulled back the most indecent and forward, and actually left us a clear coast, so that we walked through at perfect ease, and only one poor wo- man ventured to appear in the lane, whom we stopped \l I i ■ i^'i .*ii ii'Ni" i I4d APPENDIX. and begged to send her wretched children to Mariners* Church SuDdftv School. Such a circumstance I should scarcely have believed possible six months since. This I would humbly hope is only the beginning of good thinj^ •here. 'J< ^^peaking of Mr. Marks, I would draw your attention lor a moniefit to this good man^ He was formerly in the ^avy,.and was in the action of Trafalgar. He wa»iieu- tenant of the Conqueror 74. It pleased God ta awaken him by' his grace, as you will see, if you have an oppor- lunity of reading his book, called the *^ Retrospect,", and 'fkbout 1809 he establishea meeting^ widi a few pious •Seanien in one of the wings of that ship, for prayer and /or reading the Bible; whei) he quitted the Navy about 1810i he studied at Cambridge, and has since taken or- ders for the Church of- England. He published his Retro- bpect a few^'cars »nce, and it brought him into notice, W^ben a gentleman of Great Missender in Buckingham- Ihilne j^rchased the hving and presented it to Mr. 'M. About six years ago, he was sent for by Mr. Phillips and niyself to visit London, and preach &r the Seamen ^s Friend Sodiety, and he has since that preached^n im Episcopal Church for the Society. Last Autumn he came rto London, to attend the anniversary of the Sea- men^s Friend Society, it was my lot to preach one of the annual sermons at Zion Chapel (Lady Huntingdon's) one of the laigeat in London. His mind was deeply im- pressed, and he retired determined to do something mor> , for his brother seamen. I had afterwards an interview with him at the London Tavern, and urged him to come (brward and advocate the cause by his pen. Soon af- terwards he came to town, and attended the Mariners' Church. He returned to his vicarage, deeply impressed with the importance of the work ; and he has since that been writing letters, which have been published in the Christian Guardian, or Church of England Magazine. They have excited very extraordinary sensations in the Church; and Iwish I could get him to ccnne forward find preach for the cause in some churches, that might be obtained all over England, for him : But such are his retired habits, and his love to his parochial charge, thai he Cftonot be prevailed upon to travel for the cause'; hisr heart, however, is in the risht place, and he burns to see the salvation of seamen. In common with a few mofe of uf in London, he feels sorrow the most profound, that so VERT SMALL a portion of the wealth and influence and ipiety of thit large Metropohs, are brought info the sea- mens^ cause.^ *^ Finding the business grow upon my hands to such an astonishing degree, I have beeu obliged to resi^ mj sit- uation as Secretary to the British and Foreign SeamenS^ Friend Society, and devote the whole of my Tabor to this great Metropolitan estabFishment, called tile London Slariners' Church, and Rivermert Bethel Uhion. As travelling Secretary, and superintendent Miuister, I have quite enou^ now to occupy me ; and the Dock^, Rivers, and Canals, present afield so boundless, that, if i hid fifty agents, and adequate means, I could employ them all in daily labor for the Lord Jesus Christ. /, ' 'I We have tiiis week held our first anniversary. Si^^ Francis Le Hunte, of the N^vy, in the chair. It was a noble meetiiiig.'' I shall send you the Report, or Retro- qiect, by the' next packet'* Letter to the Rev, Joseph 'Eastbum, from three seamen on board sf the ship Jefferson, bound to St. Petersburg, . Russia f dated JReedif Island, March 2&, I B20, . v Reverend Sir,— With pleasure do we improve an op- portunity of addressing a few hneis to you ; and return our grateftil ^anks and acknowledgements for jour past exertions and ai-xiety for our everlasting happmess and welfare ; and also to solicit an interest in your interces- sions at the Throne of Grace for our protection through a vast and trackless ocean, and our safe arrival at our destined port, and a welcome and happy return to our friends and native shore. ^ '.'' We have for some time been attentive hearers at the Mariners' Church, where we have often heard our mani- fold sins attd trartsgressions plainly elucidated, and have seen ourselves as in a glass : we have been taught the way of light and life-^everiasting, and to adore and wor- •^ N2 144 APPENDIX. i - 1 1 •lup the God of heaven and earth, and to confide in biih througli all the changing vicissitudes of this uneven life, and look forward with h(»>es of salvation, through the mediatjoo and merits ojT the dear Redeemer of a Ibst world. ' . - /^ May the prayers of the church be heard and answered feir our preservation, and that we may tread the paths of 'holiness and humilitv, and that we: may live in the world a3 becomes the children of Ood, and become the %k subjects of. the Kingdom of Heaven, 5 May every great and good blessing attend you Sir, in your exertions to promote the cause of Christ: and may you live to see the fruit of your labors and be abundantly blest, and finally arrive ^t the haven of eternal rest, to shake the friendly hapd, and sing the song of Moses and the Lamb with all the children of God, and join in the rounds of eternal felicity, where happiness sbaU know no respite, and; enjoyment no end. . > We are, aiear Sir, with the inost sacred respect^ Yours, . _ ■ ; JoscPB B. Daooi:t, . Jeremiah Stqw, , William Farthin, ' 7 Ji*.»*^^ ■.T»*.'bA» .--t^'Vi- ^ti": m To the Editors of the Philttdelphia Gazette/ If it should not be viewed as an unreasonable trespass on the columns of your valuable paper, hitherto so much devoted to the best interests of the Mariner, a Subscriber would respectfully request the insertion of an extract From a letter of T. Phillips, Esq. secretary of the Sea man''s Friend Society in London, communicating info^ mation of a highly interesting nature to the cause of the Bethel Union J information also which will be very ac- ceptable to the friends of the cause in other seaports where it may be republished, and by the promulgation of which it will be known how desirable it is to receive across the Atlantic, information of the progress of the Re- deemer's Kingdom among the mariners in the United Myf not eon to my i tpPhiU Father, making of %1 J^sus.ai small ac J was 10th of co.rrespc upon yc cheering of our ^ he a stin it has^ thj Magazin there ar< % tlie j thankful up, I wa ner, jaid for his 0^ when " unto him be fulfilk We have Society in the est was an oi badge of Jesus Ch that Soci< to Hambi which he Denmark, invite his worship APPENDIX. 146 t-jn r^ii^i^i^m'^ M ''^ London, 9th September IS25. My reiy much esteiemed and venerable Father,— I caov' not commence niy lettcir with any iMng more consenial to my feelings than a Quotation from the episHe of Paiil tci. Philemon — ^^* Grace -to you, and- peacie, jirom God jour Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thaok i^y God, making . mention of thee always in ;my prayers, hearing of Ihy love and faith which tfa!>u hast toward the Lord Jesus and toward all Saints'^--^to which I would make, a small additipn^" and all SaiTor^.^* ., , _ „ I wa6 much pleased at the receipt of your letter dated 10th of June. I diall be highly gratified by your fMture correspondence, if it is not imposii^: too heavy a task upon you. "Good news from a f«ir country y^^ is most cheering, and while we can heap of the piety and zeal oif our mends in the ports of the United States, it wiU be a stimulus to greater exertions here* I am confident it has^ this effect by communication through the Ssulors* Magazine^ not onfy in London, but in every po£t wher)^ the^ are Bethel pocietieftior friends who ieel and care for tlie souls of Seamen. We have reason to be very thankful that new friends to the cause are hein^ raised up, I was ^oing to say, almost daily, in a wonderlul man- ner,, and ^is a convincing proof that tbe Lord is zi work for his own glory, and the period is soon to approach, when " The abundance of the seas shall be converted unto him.^^ This is a most blessed promise, and it shall be fulfilled, though we may not be permitted to see it We have an Institution here called the "Continental Society^T— its n^embers and subscribers are principally in the establishment A Mr. Von Bulow, who formerly was an oiHcer in the Danish army, and has received a badge of honOr from his sovereign, is now a minister of Jesus Christ, and has been taken up and patronized by that Society, and in the course of a few weeks is going to Hambui^^ — he intends to purchase a small vessel, in which he means to visit all the ports ia Norway and Denmark, and with the Bethel Flag at his mast-head, iDvite his countrymen, particularly the sieamen, to the worship of God, under the patronage of the Contiuental 146 APPENDdr. I; aiid Bethel Union Societies. He has been visiting and preaching to his countrymen on board their ships in this port, and I have received a letter from him this day, of which the following is a copy, viz. :■.,-. Dear Sir, — You wish to know something of my^op- -^ratiotM among ibre^ sailors on the River Hiames— - Being a stranger, and having had no one to assist me, to- gether with many other difficulties, my labors have been very much limited^ and as this is only undertaken with a view to another plan, 1 have especially directed my visits to the Norwegian vessels— -Of these, I have in the last month been on board of twenty-four, together with hue Danish, two from the BaHic, and one from Finland -—to all of them I communicated the plans and operations ^ShalI not the friends of the Redeemer on board the Globe, Victory, Lancaster, George, Jane, President, Evelina, Commodore Barry, Franci», Delight, and others now before me (for which I thank- you) pour eai their prayers for a blessing upon hmi and this new opening in Providence to do good to Sailors^ when they meet for the solemn worship of God in tbe^ cabin or forectistle of their respective ships ? Will not the pious captain Calvin Tubbs, and captain Dunton, pray for Von Bolow? He will leave England for the North, in the fall of the year — a time particularly dangerous for navigators ; but it is delightful to know, that the Lord rei^eth, and he holds the winds in his fist and the waters m the hollow of his hand. — His word,** Peaces be still," can cahn the most violent sea-'— I hope to be able to send herewith Re- ports of the Continental Society and some others.— -Our friends at Hull have lately been taking up another class of foreign sailors. They had many Dutch vessels there, and in one of them, they found a pious captain. They asked him if he would preach to his countrymen, on board the Floating Chapel there. He consented ; and the first sermon, he had eighty Dutch shippers, steermen, and sailors : and the following Sabbath, he preached to a hundred or more of his brother sailors ; and it is hoped a blessing attended the services. In addition to the ^ c M I '1 m 148 APPfiNinX. Bethel Flag at the mast-head, they had on these occasions a new Dutch Jack as a signal for divine worship. I cannot hut consider it as a token for good, the wonrings of Providence in this cause. The letter from Hull, com- municating this pleasant account, is dated (I believe,) the 16th June; and a few days after Iread a letter from a captain of the Navy of the King of the Netherknds, dated from Rotterdam, I believe the 17 th June^ devoting himself to the cause in that part of Europe, and request- ing his name to be put down as a subscriber to the So- ciety here--you will see his letter in the Marine sent herewith. I have written to him in reply, with reports of the Society, Magazines, &C; urging him, as strongly as possible, to proceed in Ihe noble cause, assuring him that the blessing^ of Qod will attend his exertions. Thus, my venerable and esteemed father, is the work in a state of progress, and all the Devils in Hell will not be able to stop it — they have too long reigned in the hearts of seamen, but the Sun of Righteousness is arising with healing in his wings, and they must 4ubmit. But while present prospects are most pleasing, th«ve is very nmek to be done — -We are only just putting on the armor, and must not boast as they who are putting it off— Satan will not quietly lose his victims — he will raise up enemies — yes, even among those who are the professed friends of the Redeemer, and some half-hearted, cold, calculating prudential persons (we have some out here, and perhaps you may Imve others in America) will be ready to say ^*' this is not the proper time — the Lord will do the work by his Holy Spirit in his own way," &c. &c. We know this as well as they, but while the great Jehovah is pleased to work by instruments, it is our duty to go for- ward ; and if we work wi^ a single eye to his glory, sailors will be converted, and He shall have the glory, - Our anniversary is settled to be on the 20th October, before which I hope you will receive this. Let us haye an interest in your prayers for the blessings of God upon us. Our pious and venerable President, Admiral Lord Gambier, has promised to be with us D. V. — and as the public feeling, as it respects the religious instruction of seam^, has not decreased, I expect that many will not ^ % ▲pp£in>ix. 149 be able to obtain admittance, as was the case last year. I shall send you one of the Reports, when they are print- ed ; and as l am not acquainted with the names of the worthies in the different ports of America, who belong to Bethel Union Societies, I shall intreat you or Mr. R. to circulate them, and intreat their correspandence with us, aff we are very anxious to know how tne cause pro* ceeds in every part of the world* One instance I must relate, which proves the utility of the measures adopted to evangelize Seamen. It was related to me by my worthy friend Capt. Wilkins, in whose ship I attended the first Sailor^s Prayer Meeting in the Thames, and in consequence of that attendance, all the public measures that have since been taken arose — he had the account from a Wesleyan minister.-^One of our Downs Pilots boarded a ship, to bring her to Lon- doB-^as soon as he got on deck, he began to bluster and swear most horridly, as is too much the custom with tiiese men — the mate came up to him, apd said * yoa must not swear here; the captaw will not aflow it.* This iunt was not strong enou^ ; he went on as before, which broutfht ^'^ptain from the cabin, to know the reason; and finding the pilot obstinate, he ordered him out of the ship, and took aitother. He went off, and soon after boarded another, and immediately as before gave his orders with oaths and imprecations — a sailor stepped up to him and said * you must not swear in this ship, it is not allowed — the Bible prohibits it^ and our cap^in won't allow it^ He said ^ it was impossible to navigate a ship without, and swear he must.* — The sailor replied * why, we Ve taken the ship to Leghorn and back without swear- ing, and it's veir hard if she cannot be taken from the Downs to the Thames without.' The end of the busi- ness was, that he was turned out of the second ship — he boarded a third, and was turned out of her for swearing, and another taken in his place. He was so astonished, that when he met a brother Pilot on shore, he told him all about it, and that the sailors had said that the Bible did not allow swearing ; what sort of a book is the Bible? His companion, about as ignorant as himself, holding out his hands, said, Mt is a book about so big, and it is all *»: *./' # ll f ! "■:*-J ,3 r't.'i I ' T,, 160 APPENDIX. full of religion.* The Pilot declared he wouM hay ooi to see aH about it — Who can tell, but that the Lofd di- rected him to those ships, and that he may have desi^^i of mercy to this poor blaspheming pilot ? Eternity may, and will, declare many strange and unexpected things. Many wrill be found in Heaven that we little ei^pect to flee there; and many perhaps excluded who we reason* ably expected would be there. ki. ■ : -■ p'.'f' Skip Caledonia, M(^ ^Zthi 1^27^ ^* Respicted Sir, ' It is with feelings the most sincere, that we embrace (he present opportunity of addressing these few lines to you,' as the worthy pastor of the Manner's Chtth:h, the good eff^ts of which, will always be as deeply felt as admired. We make no hesitation in saying, that since the f■ ■f , ..:!■ Tsk m' V'l} s«^ 'r-- i (-' John Gilliard, jr. Enoch Stevens, ,' , John Bliven, William Pride, Nicholas Vanderhoven, Samuel Bragden, Edward Haines, ^ ' Richard Lacey, * ,^''* Sanmel Brown, " * ;f William Bowden, John ■-'V i. •*» '■'i "i y -» >» ■ ■•''"■'>'♦/■ John Smith, Abel Stevens, " Geoi^e Wilson, Church Hagens, Thomas C. Olby, Adam Strieker, ' John P. Monell, Henry Wharton, Charies Whitman. Barr, 2rf Officer, M Belie have pi once m( here frc I am no delphia 1 cam the Rei kindest i many yc and conl you, by j nal and i has been labor, an iner's C desired, i your sou a comfor mentality I hear yo peace." And n( which pa " wait wi in the wi —and en the rich a The Lon APPEMDn. 151 From the Rev, Dr, Brodhead, ■ J^ew-York^ Kovembir Mth^ t827. My very venerable and dear old friend, — Believe me when I say, I have not foi^otten you. I have put off* writing to vou in the hope of seeing you once more on this side of eternity. I have been detained here from week to week with necessary business, so that I am now almost afraid to undertake a journey to Phila- delphia this season, I cannot, however, suffer the opportunity presented by the Rev. Mr. Livingston, to pass, without sending my kindest and best wishes to one who has been to me, for many years, a valuaMe counsellor in all spiritual duties and conflicts. May the dear Saviour continue to reward you, by giving to you the continual assurance of his eter- nal and unchangeable love. I understand that the master has been pleased to withdraw you from the field of public labor, and that another voice is now heard in the Mar- iner^s Church. It is well. For what could you have desired, more than you have. seen? The object dear to your soul has been accomplished, and the seamen have a comfortable place for worship. Through your instru- mentality has all this been accomplished. And methinks I hear you say, ^^ now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace." And now, my dear old friend, " May the peace of God which passeth all understanding be with you." May you " wait with patience all the days of your appointed time" in the wilderness — ^pass over me Jordan of death in joy — and enter into the Canaan of everlasting rest, praising the rich and sovereign grace of your ahni^ty Redeemer. The Lord of his mercy grant it. Farewell. . I am yours in the bonds of the gospel, J. Brodhead. O 153 APPENDIX. When the place of meeting for Beamen was trani ferred from the sail-toft to the sesiion-room of the 3d Presbjr- terian Church of Philadelphia, the following hymn, com- poted for the occasion, was sung. HYMN. Hohr be tUs, m wm the pkce To biin, of Padan-aram, Enown ; When Abrahaai's God revealed bis fiure And caught the pilgriin to the throne: O, how transporting was the glow Which thrill'd bis bo8.uV The name and the contemplated enterprise of Mr. Von Bulow are mentioned in one of the preceding letters, addressed to Mr. Eastburn. The following printed cir- cular, containing information in regard to his first mis- sionary voyage, and of a second, for which be was pre- 158 APPENDIX. paring, was also addressed to Mr. E.,and will be gratify- ing to those who take an interest in the attempts now making to evangelize seamen. — And it may also be df use to correct an idle story, which has been printed and exten- sively circulated, that Marshal Von Bulow, who com- manded the advance of the Prussian arm}^ at the battle of Waterloo, had become a Christian missionary. The identity of name, and similarity of previous military char- acter, have probably led some one, who possessed more zeal than knowledge or prudence, to circulate a story which is calculated, by its entire falsehood, to injure the cause of Christian missions — Marshal Bulow has never been, and probably is never likely to be, a Christian missionary. ** The Rev. Carlos Von Bulow, who in 1825 was ap- pointed an agent of the Continental Society for diffusing religious knowledge on the Continent of Europe, has just returned from Norway, where he has been laboring to promote this object during the past year. The representation which he gives of the state of re- ligion in those northern parts of Europe, although on the one hand truly deplorable, is on the other very encour- aging, and claims the sympathy, prayers, and assistance of British Christians. As his journal is to be communi- cated to the public through the medium of the Sailor^s Magazine, all who feel interested in promoting the king- dom of God, are referred to that source of information. The plan originally arranged for Mr. Von Bulow, was, that he should be furnished with a vessel of about thirty tons register, in which he could have embarked with the scriptures and tracts in the several languages of Europe — wherewith the British and Foreign Bible Society, and Religious Tract Society, had supplied him ; but as the necessary means of fitting out and navigating the vessel fell short, through the embarrassments of the times, he was compelled to content himself with a decked boat, of five or six tons burthen, in which he sailed from port to port, and from island to island, beginning at Chris- tiansand and cruising as far as Drontheim — having ap- proached latitude 64°. On this voyage to the north and back again, he visited the inhabitants every where, as APPENDIX. 169 ;ratify- s now 6f use exten- 5 com- i battle . The ■y cbar- i more a story ure the s never hristlan was ap- liifusing has just oring to te of re- 1 on the encour- isistance >m!nuni- Sailor's he king- rmation. ►w, was, it thirty with the Europe ety, and as the le vessel mes, he d boat, lorn port Chris- nng ap- kth and lere, as well as the vessels of the several nations in the ports, preaching the gospel and distributing scriptures and tracts : this he has done at sixty different places, to Nor- wegian congregations of from twenty to four^hundred persons, five times in English, and twice in German ves- sels. He could have preached much more frequently to mariners, had he been provided with a vessel capable of assembling them. The boat which he has navigated hitherto is manifestly unfit for this purpose, or for expo- sure to the hazards of coasting those shores. — His con- viction is, that only the especial protection of God has preserved him hitherto. The destitution of the scriptures and of religious in- struction in the regions already visited \fy Mr. Von Bu- low, is great, and the wants of the population inhabiting the islands and coasts from 64*^ to 71°, are still greater. If he can be provided with a proper vessel of thirty to forty tons raster, and funds to meet the expenses of navigating her, he is ready to devote himself to this ar- duous mission. The cost of sueh a vessel is estimated at £200, and the annual expense £130 to £150 per annum, " The committee of the Continental Society, judging that this n^ission does not come within the sphere pre- scribed to them by their regulations, have intimated to Mr. Von Bulow that they do not feel justified in laying out their funds upon it, except to a limited extent. He has therefore now to appeal to the friends of seamen, and to the various Bethel Unions, for aid in promoting the glory of God and salvation of fishermen and sailors, in these neglected regions. To forward his views, a sub- committee has been appointed in Hull. On behalf of Mr. Von Bulow they entreat your prayers, influence, and exertions to procure subscriptions and donations, which they request that you would kindly transmit to their treasurer, John Clay, Esq. Swedish Consul at this port, as early as possible, as the season for the recommence- ment of Mr. Von Bulow 's labors is near at hand. , :. Signed, -, James Bowden, , John Sadler, Thomas Sykes, Hull, March, 1B27, Secretaries,'*^ 160 APPENDIX. ** The Port of London Society has presented the Rev. C. Von Bulow with a Bethel Flag, which has already ^aved Ti om his little bark, and other vessels in various Sorts of Norway. The British and Foreign Bible Society ave likewise made him a new grant of one thousand New Testaments ; and the Religious Tract Society has engaged to furnish him with a sufficient number of tracts/* The following circular, addressed to Mr. Eastbum, contains some valuable su^estions in regard to sean>en, and especially in relation to the establishment of good boarding-houses, which is deserving of the attention of every seamans* friend. , Charleston, S, C. Jarmary^ i623, ** The Charleston Bethel Union, to all Bethel Unions, Port Societies, and Ship-Masters, send greeting: — Brethren and Friends, ' Thou^ an infant institution, we hope we shall be par- doned for the liberty we are taking, in addressing those who are greatly our superiors in knowledge and expe- rience, when we assure them, that our object is not to teach them wisdom, but to soticit their assistance. In exploring the field of our labors, for the purpose of ascertaining what is to be done, and how it is to be ac- complished, we have endeavored not only to make such personal observations as jcircumstances would permit, but also to avail ourselves of the knowledge which ship- masters have acquired from experience. To facilitate an acquaintance with the feelings and habits of seamen, we have conversed with masters individually, and have also adopted the plan of giving a general invitation, as often as it shall be deemed expedient, to those in port, to meet a committee from our body on board some ship, for the fmrpose of holding a free discussion upon any topic re- ating to the moral and religious improvement of seamen. The result of our investigation has been to establish in our minds a firm conviction, that all the deficiencies which are found in the character of seamen, beyond what are daily exhibited in other classes of the comma- APPENDIX. 161 nity, are owing to their want of the same means and the same motives. As to the means of their religious instruction in this place, we hope that in future they will be constant But as a hand-maid to the truths of the gospel, some other motire seems to be necessary to encourage sailors to aim at a higher elevation of character — to stimulate them to strive ror that good name which is rather to be chosen than great riches. To other men this motive is furnished by the common circumstances of thdr situation. Placed in the midst of their acquaintances, and in the bosom of their family, their reputation, their livelihood, and even their daily comfort, depend upon their maintaining a regular ani decent deportment. But the sailor is often far removed from the watchful eye of kindred affection, and hh char- acter and conduct wholly unknown to any individual of his former acquaintance. If then he can be as readily employed and obtain as much wages, while rioting in th« paths of dissipation, and revelling in the haunts of sin, as in the pursuit of any other course, what motive, un- less he possesses moral {Mrinciple, will draw him away from the jaws of the destroyer, and induce him to aim at what is virtuous and praiseworthy ? With a view of furnishing the motives most likely to operate in the case, ^ ship-masters have informed us, that in some ports in Europe a register office has been estab- lished for the puipose of recording the names of such sailors as should be able to obtain from the last master with whom they sailed, a certificate of their correct habits and faithful services, and that when masters ship sailors, they apply to this office and give such men a de- cided preference.^ That such an institution may have the desired effect, it should be distinctly understood, that in connexion with it, there must be good boarding-houses, where the means of rational entertainment and solid im- provement may be enjoyed — where no imposition shall be practised — where the sailor of every clime shall find his friends and his home ; and also, that those, who apply at the office, must uniformly be recommended to those houses, and that such as do not comply with their direc- 1^3 ^ APPBMinX. ■r^. 3 -H tions, but take lodgingii in places not patronized by the managers of the institution, are to be considered as for- feiting their certificate,^ and losing all claim to employ- ment or protection. Ship-masters with whom we have consulted, have with one voice assured us, that if institu- tions of this kind can be generally established under proper regulations, they will give them their hearty sanc- tion, and their uniform patronage. They also say they are decidedly of the opinion, that they would be among the best means of improving the moral character of sea- men, which have yet been devised, and which are so practicable in their operation. But, at the same time, they remind us, that our exertions must be exceedingly embarrassed, if we attempt such an enterprise alone; and that the good eJQfected will be comparatively small, if it is undertaken only in a few other places. If the sailor needs such a motive in one port^ he nieeds it through the world. If ihe master and the owner find it for their happiness and interest to know the character of the men they ship in one port, it would be equally for their benefit to have the advantage of the same information in eveiy port round the globe. In short, masters assure us that although disposed to make every effort in their power, they shall not be able to afford all the encouragement to an in^tution of this kind, which we hope soon to estab- lish, that it may deserve, while standing alone. For when in other ports they must be always liable to ship sailors who have no certificate, and leave those who have, because there is no regular method of making the dis- tinction. And this, brethren and friends, is the special reason of our communication. Out minds have been deeply impressed with the importance of the object, and we have (' It ourselves imperiously called upon by the indicatior':, of Providence to make an effort. But sensible as we are, that our influence must be exceedingly limited, unless something of the kind shall be attempted in other pbrts, we have taken the liberty of addressing the friends of seamen generally, for the purpose of soliciting their co-operation. And we trust we shall be permitted ear- nestly to entreat all bodies organized for their benefit, to give the subject a speedy and a careful examination. APPEia>IS. 163 time, dingljT ilone; small, If the irough r their le men benefit ereiy IS that )Ower, lent to estab- . For to ship have, le dis- pecial been ct, and )y the ensible imited, other friends g their d ear- efit, to nation. Woald it not be eipedient for all such bodies to invite either stated or occasional meetings of ship-masters, in which a committee from the body shall meet them and discuss freely any subject pertaining to the welfare of seamen? And if upon suitable inrestigation it shall ap- Eear advisable, to establish institutions of the kind which as been proposed, may we not anticipate the united ex- ertions of Marine Associations, Ship-Owners and Ship- Masters, throughout the world ? We feel assured there is a kindr<.d spirit glowing in the bosom of the friends of Zion of every nation. The unusual interest which has of late been excited in behalf of seamen, and the special success which has crowned the recent exertions for their welfare, encourage us to indulge hopes of no ordinary kind. And when we reflect on their number, the hardi- ness and enei^gy of their character, and their constant intercourse with every part of the globe, what may we not expect from them, should they become Christians, towards evangelizing the world ? Eveiy thing we do to elevate their character will have a tendency to bring them under the influence of the gospel. — Shall we not then in obedience to the indications of Providence, sum- mon our energies, combine our exertions, and make one eflbrt corresponding, at least in some degree, with the movements of the day in which we live, earnestly sup- plicating that blessing, without which all human endea- vors will be utterly fruitless, and with which the feeblest may accomplish wonders. With much respect. We have the honour to be. Brethren and Friends, ^ Yours most afiectionately. In behalf of the Charleston Bethel Union. Thomas Napier, President. Joseph Brown, Corresponding Secretary, ■f 164 APPENDIX. Among the manuscripts of Mr. Eastburn, were found ,B number of narratives and anecdotes, which were pre- faced as follows : — ** As there are some remarkable things, which I have heard or knowTi, and which I have never seen in print, and finding my memory failing, I would just write them, that they may not be forgotten — as they should be a Warning to every one.* ** In the congregation of Mr. Ramsey, near Cohansey, in Jersey, there was a young man who had made a pio- fession of religion, and was thought well of for some time ; but associating with vain worldly company, he was per- suaded, on a Christmas night, to attend at a jovial meet- ing for dancing and merriment. And as he was remarkable for activity, he was persuaded to take his turn in dancing. He accoringly stepped out on the floor with a young wo- man for the purpose, but the instant the violin began to 'I^ay, he was struck dead. The company thought he was about to show some feats of his activity, whicn he had formerly done, and waited to see him spring to his feet ; but when they found he was dead, they all fled and left the house, and their mirth was turned into awful horror and alarm. The account spreading, and Mr. Ramsey giving out that he would preach a sermon upon the oc- "casion on new-year day, many attended,- and were much effected ; and this awful instance occasioned the begin- ning of a revival of religion there. (MS.) Mr. Kirkland, a missionary to the Indians, related the following account.^ In a town in New-England where he had been, there were two young women who were very intimate: one of them became very serious; but the other, having an infidel father, who had brought her up in his sentiments, left her company, but was shortly afl;er taken sick. This pious friend paid her a visit ; and upon reminding her of the importance of being prepared for '"in connexion with these manuscripts, several printed articles were found, which Mr. E. had manifestly selected and preserved for the same purpose— We shall insert a few, distinguishing the manuscripts with the mark MS. APPENDIX. 165 death, she forhade her to mention death in her hearing, until she should get well. Her friend expostulated with her, telling her, now was the time, and she knew not that she should recover. She then declared she would not hear her, and desired her to withdraw. Her physi- cian coming in, the sick one asked him what he thought of her case. He told her it was past the power of man to help her. She cried out, " O doctor, you must help me." He told her she must apply to the Lord, for he only could help her. She replied, the Lord I know will not help me, as I have refused to seek or serve him all my life ; and she would not hear any thing ahout death, or any thing that was good. The doctor withdrew, and her infidel father came in, when she told him that the doctor had informed her that she would die ; and said, " I now believe it, and I must be miserable ; and now I tell you, that your principles have ruined me for ever : and remember what I now tell you, when you see my body put in the coffin and lowered in the grave — ^then my soul will be in hell," — and in dreadful distress she expired. This being known, he said there were not less than two hundred people awakened by this awful case. (MS.) Mr. Kirkland also related the case of an officer in our American Revolution, who had from a child possessed iniidel principles ; so that when quite young, when his mother, who was a pious woman, would catechise him, and ask him that question in the Assembly's catechism, " How many persons are there in the godhead ?" he would ridicule the question, and refuse to attend to her instructions. He became very vain and haughty, and en- tered into the army. Possessing; much wit and humor, he was much admired by his brother officers, and at- tained to the rank of major in the standing army, and behaved as a resolute good officer until the war was over — when he returned to the town where his mother lived in New-England. , At this time there was a revival of religion there, which he very much despised, and was quite provoked to find the young people so attentive to meetings. He therefore set himself to oppose the work. 166 APPENDIX. and prevailed with some to join him on sabbath evenings, to assemble together to mock the preaching of the day, and spend the rest of the time in merriment He would go himself to hear preaching, to obtain something to ridi- cule. But while he was hstening for this purpose, the Lord was pleased so to apply the word to his heart, that he knew not how to behave. He tried to overcome his impressions, and thought to brave it out, by going to his company again in the evening. But conscience made him linger by the way, until it was late. The company shouted at his coming, and inquired the reason of his delay ; when the impressions of the day came powerfully to his mind again. — Upon which he cried out that they were all in the way to hell, and that he had been the wicked leader, and now gave a solemn warning and for- sook the place. His distress became so great that he could scarce sleep or eat any, for three days and nights. He would cast himself upon the floor at night, wrapped in a blanket, and roll in anguish, crying out against himself as the chief of sinners. .His mother finding his distress so freat, began to fear the enemy might tempt him to destroy imselA and therefore, unknown to him, would watch him. Finding him rise suddenly at midnight, and go out from the house, she followed him ; when at some dis- tance, in a private place, she perceived him on his knees, and could hear him with rapturous joy praising the Lord for the unspeakable gift of nis Son, to be a Saviour (or such poor lost sinners as he was, and enabling him to be- lieve in him ; and from that time he took an active part in promoting what he had before been trying to hinder. Instances of Infidelity^ and marks of Divine displeasure. In the city of Boston, a company of infidels met for the purpose of ridiculing religion; and after spending part of the night in a profane manner, three of them had to pass over the neck, and go some distance on a road, on the side of which was a burying ground. One of them observed that they had been disavowing any belief of a future state, or resurrection of the dead, and asked who APPENDIX. 1G7 Would CO over the wall and stand upon d tomb-stone, and calf the dead to come fb judgment ; u^on which one offered to do so, and immediately stood up and called aloud, ** Arise ye dead and come to judgment." — A poor deranged woman, who often spent her nights among the tombs, at that time lay by the side of the one on which he stood, and hearing him call, instantly sprang up and cried, ^* I am coming." This so dreadfully affriehted the poor infidel, that he fell into fits, and never auerwards recovered until he died. His companions were also dreadfully alarmed and confounded. (MS.) In the year 1 799, in the State of New-York, a similar company assembled for the same purpose, and spent the evening in ridiculing every thing serious and sacred. The servants who attended them declared that they made a mock sacrament, and gave the bread to the dogs, saying it was fit for such animals. After they had broken up, the president of the club, who was a physician, retired to his lodging, and told his landlady he wished to go to bed ; but said it was so damnM hot he did not expect to sleep. Not long after, the woman heard him groaning dreadfully, and went to know what was the cause. > She found the agonies of death had come to call him to an- swer for his conduct, and before morning he expired. (MS.) - In the City of Philadelphia, a like company associated themselves together every Sabbath, at a tavern, back of the city: and when a certain number were collected, they chose their officers, — in doing which the rule was, he should be president who had never prayed ; he should be vice-president who had never gone to church ; and he should be secretary who had never read the scrip- tures. They then proceeded to business, which was to make a mock at every thing serious and sacred — at all ministers, and professors of religion-^— and they continued in this way for some time. At one of the anniversary days of our American Independence, one of them was taken very sick, and not long afler was seized with great horror of mind. He sent for the person who writes this account P2 168 AI^PENDIX. ^] at a late hour of the night, and said to him, you may think it strange that I have sent for you at such a time as this, but I am so tormented I could not refrain. I find I am a wretched ruined sinner, a God-provoking, blasphemous, wicked wretch : you visited my wi|e in her dying hours, and I have no doubt but she is gone to heaven ; but I am as sure, that in a little time I shall be in hell. She often entreated me to go with her to a place of worship, when I told her to go among the fools, but that I had better company, which consisted of infidels like myself. After expressing his abhorrence of his former conduct and great distress, he was told the Lord Jesus came to save sinners, even the chief. This ap- r eared to increase his agony. " Oh ! monster that I am ! have abused his name in a filthy manner, by calling him what is too vile to be repeated. I cannot expect any mercy; on his account." Nor could any thing that was mentioned, afford the least relief. He was visited twice afterward, by the same person ; when he appeared more composed, but did not express any hope concerning himself; and shortly after the last visit, he expired. N. B. He requested a hymn might be sung, and being asked what one, he said, any good one the person pleased. The 51st Psalm was then sung, " Show pity Lord, O Lord forgire,"— &c. Lest I might be called upon to qualify to the above, although I have not publicly mentioned his name, I now record it to be Benjamin Merrit, by trade a tailor, a ready speaker. His wife^s maiden name was Britt, a member of Arch-street church. (MS.) ' : ' ; The following account is taken from the Western Star, a Washington and Georgetown newspaper, dated Octo- ber 28th, 1801, :-:-r Not many years ago several young men in a certain part of this country, who had for some time been asso- ciated together in Hterary pursuits, mutually agreed to give their serious attention to re?-rrious topics, and freely communicate their sentiments to each other. AAer one o his dii ence < ed, an uouslj treatci with i zeal ir able, t in thei in the i they cj the un] them t] and aci ciples, and vi< wicked the hai commei of deat indescri and ine fused b( time, ea when tl soothing of the li manner; "You heaven's I now h his displc than my no state experien and kno\ s^d dest these sen APPENDIX. 169 Star, Octo- lertain asso- ligreed 8, and [other. After proceeding a while in conformity to this agreement, one of them at last avowed infidel principles ; declaring his disbelief, not only of the bibles but even of the exist- ence of God. His virtuous companions, though astonish- ed, and exceedingly shocked, by this declaration, assid- uously endeavored to convince and reclaim him ; but he treated their kind endeavors with scorn, upbraided them with superstitious weaknesses, and manifested a furious zeal in favor of infidelity. Thus finding him irreclaim- able, they withdrew from his society, and, still persisting in their serious inquiries, grew more and more confirmed in the all-important truth of religion, according to which they carefiilly regulated their lives. On the other hand, the unhappy youth, who had left their company, made them the subject of his daily derision, and profane scofis ; and acting accordingly to the tendency of his infidel prin- ciples, he eagerly plunged into the vortex of dissipation and vice, and seemingly gloried ia being unmeasurably wicked ; but his career was short. Suddenly struck by the hand of God, with a sickness, which, in its very commencement, appeared evidently to be the harbinger of death, his mind was at the same time stricken With indescribable horror. Positively declaring he should die, and inevitably sink to the regions of woe, he utterly re- fused both medicine and consolation ; but, at the same time, earnestly requested to see his former companions : when they had arrived, they kindly began to attempt soothing his distress ; but he instantly forbade any efforts of the kind, and then addressed them in the following manner: — " You behold me, (said he,) an awful monument of heaven's justice ! I lately told you that there was no God. 1 now know that there is a God — I feel the weight of his displeasure, which is a thousand times more intolerable than my pain of body. I lately told you that there was no state of punishment for the wicked — I now awfully experience the contrary — I feel hell in my own breast, and know that I am now sinking into that abyss of woe and destruction!" Almost immediately after uttering these sentiments, he expired ; and the unutterable horrors 170 APPENDIX. of his departing spirit, marked his lifeless corpse with such a peculiar and frightful ghastliness, as made the be- holders ttemble. }: I-' II ' I^^om the Long Island Patriot, AWFUL WARNING! r Sortie few months ago, during the performance of di- vine service on board the receiving-ship at this place, one of the men contrived to slip out of the congregation, beckoned to one of his shipmates, and went below. He did not, however, escape unobserved ; an officer followed him on tip-toe, and the man, presuming that it was his comrade, said, in an under-voice, " come, let us have a snug game at cards." When the service was over, the culprit was summoned by the commanding officer, who severely reprimanded him before the assembled crew, and dismissed him with these words : " How do you know but this may be the last opportunity you will have of hearing a sermon ?" The next morning he fell from the mast-head^ and was picked up a corpse ! Three Sabbaths ago, during divine service in the same place, a man behaved with so little decorum, that an officer was sent to check him. After service, the offender was publicly rebuked — was reminded of the preceding anecdote, and dismissed with this remark : " Who can tell but this may be your fate to-morrow?" The next mornings he was ordered to perform some duty aloft,/e// from, the mast-head^ and was picked up a corpse [ The narrative requires no "omment, ' ^^** Brooklyn, 2d July, 1821. A copy of a representation of John Williams'* s life, John Williams, a colored man, believed to be of an Indian extract, appeared to have been afflicted with the rheumatism twenty years or upwards. He served about four years as an apprentice with Robert Eastburn of New-Brunswick, New-Jersey ; and during that time, and before, he was in a weak state of body. But his com- APPENDIX. 171 plaints increased, so that for about twelve years befdre his death, he appeared unable to help himself in bed. He possessed good natural understanding, for one in his con- dition. He could read well, and appeared at times to possess some serious reflections of mind, but continued rather impenitent ; had an undue fondness for spiritous liquors ; and was disposed to use profane language. But by means of some instrumental help, attended by divine mercy, he came under deep convictions, and was nearly, if not entirely, in a state of despair. This continued, as is believed, for some months ; after which time, light arose on his mind, and he rejoiced greatly, giving glory to the Most High. And it is believed that the greatest part of his time, until his death, his mind was exercised in devotion, prayer, and praise. 1 visited liim at sundry times, as opportunity offered, and to the best of my re- membrance, he appeared in nearly the same exercise of mind. One evening in particular, I appointed to go and stay with him at his dwelling all the night : and when I came to the door, I heard him in the act of praise. I went in and saw him ; he appeared pleased, and I en- joyed a pleasing conversation with him, and when I re- tired to rest, I awoke at different times in the night, and heard him in acts of prayer or praise. What was singu- larly remarkable, and perhaps beyond any thing known or scarcely heard of, is, that for some years before his death, his jaws were set, and his whole body stiff, with- out any capacity to move. His hands were greatly de- formea, and laid across his body ; his neck was also stiff. He lay with some support under his shoulders, but could not bear any thing to rest his head on. He appeared to possess but little hfe, except in his tongue and one eys. He had a book placed before him by his request, and was supported in such a position that he could look into it; and he learned the contents in a remarkable manner, so that he repeated and sang them over, in a clear and dis- tinct voice, and it appeared as an act of solemn praise. It will also appear wonderful, that about the time of his jaws being set, two of his teeth came out, whereby he was enabled to receiye nourishment, by means of its '4^ na APPENDIX. being poured into his mouth from a teapot, or put other- ways through this vacancy. He could move his tongue and one eye, but otherways was motionless. (MS.) I m The fol]o\;ring affecting story of a Poor Drummer and his Boy, is extracted from a volume of Newton's Letters, and it is hoped will prove edifying to the reader. When on a preaching tour with a friend, we met with i^ pious drummer belonging to a regiment quartered in a town which we visited. We invited him to sup with us in the inn. After supper, we requested him to favor us with his history, which he did with great modesty and seriousness in the following words, which are as nearly his own as I can recollect. I have been (said he,) twenty- four years' in the army and navy together. Till four years ago I was the vv4ckedest wretch in either. Our regiment . was then at Hulk I was seized with an unaccountable melancholy : it was not about religion. I do not know what it was, but I was miserable. One evening, as I was walking on the common, very unhappy, I observed a church lighted up, which convinced me there was ser- mon in it, but I durst not go lest my comrades should laugh at me, for going to sermon on a week day. I knelt upon the common and prayed to God to give me courage to go to church. When 1 rose I went directly to church. • The minister was preaching upon believing on the Lord Jesus Christ. Immediately when I was seated, the min- ister said, " If it could be of the smallest service to the meanest person present, I would come down from the pulpit, and on my bended knees beseech that person to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ." Thought I, this must be a mighty matter surely, that a gentleman would come down from the pulpit, and on his bended knees beseech a poor drummer to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. That, with the remainder of his sermon, made a deep im- pression on my mind. I went home to my wife : she met me at the door. I said to her, Jane, we are all wrong, we are living like beasts, we know nothing about believ- ing in the Lord Jesus Christ, Poor thing ! she trembled, for she thought I was gone mad ; but, said I, Jane, I am ■.. if APPENDIX. 173 ^ not iKiad, but you and I are going to destruction. I un- derstand the bible will tell us every thing ; but we have not a bible, and though we had, we cannot read it. O, said she, we can buy a bible, and our little boy, who is only twelve miles off, can read it to us. Accordingly we sent for our boy, and also bought a bible. When he came home, we desired him to begin at the first pa^e and read forward to the end of the book. We gave hmi al- ways two suppers to keep him from sleep, for he got drowsy with reading. I used to rise very early in me morning to hear more of tho^bible ; but I would say, it is cruel to awake my boy so early, and would give him another hour of sleep ; then he arose and began to read where he had stopped the preceding night, and we both sat listening to our boy reading the book. He read slow, for he had many hard words to spell. At length God opened my poor blind eyes to see that Jesus Christ was the very Saviour I stood in need of. O how happy I was I Our boy read onward, and the Lord was jpleased to open the poor blind eyes of my wife, so that she saw in Jesus Christ just what I saw. Now we became one of the happiest families in all Hull. I had put myself to school that I might learn to read, and in a few months I was able to read nearly as well as my little boy. I determined that my house should be a house of prayer, and my door open to all who should choose to come. I told my comrades I had now begun to pray to God, and read his word every morning and evening ; and I should be glad of their company at these times. Several attended to make sport. When I could not make out a long word, then they all laughed, but I thought now, a few months ago I would have laughed at these things as well as they, but if God opens their eyes as he has mine, they will laugh no more at these things — so I read on as well as I was able. By and by some of them became very serious, but drink and wicked com- pany did them much injury. One of them however re- mains very stedfast to this day. 174 APPENDIX., A common hackney-coachman had a most remarkable dream not long since, which is as follows : — He dreamed, one Saturday evening, that he was out with his coach, plying for a iair ; and, being engaged, had directions given him where to drive. As he was carrying his passengers, he thought he was called to ascend an exceeding steep hill ; and when he reached the summit, he found the de- clivity of the hill still more troublesome. However, with great difficulty he cot down ; and, as he proceeded, he arrived at a pair of great iron gates, wide open. When he had passed them, he found himself in an uncommonly dark and gloomy place, in which were vast crowds of people dressed in mourning ; all of whom, by their coun- tenances, seemed to be in a very pensive frame of mind. Hereupon he stopped, and asked one of the persons what place tha^ was ? He answered, " It was hell." " Hell !" said the coachman, " I have had more frightful ideas of hell than this appears to be : if this be hell, I shall not be under such fearl^l apprehensions of hell as formerly." Upon this the person mformed him, " that hell was not so much outward, as it was inward ;" and, as a proof of this, he opened his waistcoat, and showed him his heart, which was in a flame of fire. This shocked the coach- man to a great degree : but the person proceeded to in- form him, " that his case was not singularly shocking, for all whom he then saw were in the same condition ;" and added, "if he would accompany him, he should see worse than that." This the coachman refused, and, in great confusion and consternation, attempted to return. But, to his su^ prise, the person, in conjunction with others, caught hold of him, and refused to let him go, except he would promise to come again. After he bad used every effort to free himself, to no effect, he at last promised, " If they would let him go, he would certainly come again at twelve o'clock." Upon this condition they let him de- Eart, and he drove off in haste. When he was got out, e awoke in great horrors of mind. He then awoke his wife, and related the whole to her ; but she treated it with ridicule, and soon went to sleep again. But the poor man slept no more : and in the morning said, " he -J^-. -^ Al>PENDnt. f', * . • . • . . - was afraid he shouM die, and go td hell;'*' and desired his wife to seek for some man to go out with the coach that day; for he could not; and refused to eat or drink any thing. Hereupon his wife took fire, and used him vyith rough lan^age; and went among her acquaintance^ ridiculing hid fancy, and said her husband was going to hell at twelve o'clock. This passed on, and the man got worse in his mind, till the clock struck twelve ; when hia^ wife damned him, and said, " It is twelve o'clock', and you are not yet gone to hell." With that he replied, " Hold your tongue, for I am going;" and immediately fell down dead. This the person related to the minister^ the Rev. Mr. W. who communicafed it to me as certain ; and subjoined that the wife was then almost in a state of distraction. ' :/ / * -/ . ^.,.,^-,K. Wisdom's ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are paths of peace. This is only truly known by those who have their minds enlightened by the teaching of the Holy blessed Spirit of the Lord. One instance, among the cloud of witnesses, is that of a young woman, well educated, of sprightly talents, the life of young com- pany, an excellent singer, her company earnestly sought for by the gay and thoughtless ; but by attending a religious meeting, she was led to see that her course of life Would lead to everlasting sorrow. So powerful was the im- pression, that she trembled ; aiiu i" om that time she be- gan to seek a refuge for her soul. At another meeting, her mind was much relieved, by these words, " they that sow in teal's shall reap in joy." Some time after, while alone, meditating; upon divine things, her joy was as great as her human frame could support. At this time several of hop young friends came to visit her, and seeing her in such a wonderful frame of mind, inquired if she had lost her reason. She meekly replied, that she never possessed it more than at present ; but that her mind was turned from vanity to real and substantial happiness : and she said she could declare, that if she could unite all the happiness she ever enjoyed, in all the company she ever attended, one Q 176 APPENDIX. hour of her present joy would far surpass diem all. And now, said, she, I do not want to part with you, although I cannot join you in our former vain amusements. I do entreat you to join me, in walking the narrow road that leads to happiness. At first they tried to banish every serious thought* and made light of all she could say to them. But her afiectionate address was so powerfully im- pressed upon some of them, that after senous reflection, they united with her and became happy companions. She made rapid advances in divine things, and was fast pre- paring for higher enjoyments in a better world ; and did shortly after meet death with sweet composure, without a sting, and saying, " My heavenly Father, receive thy poor child home. O precious Saviour, into thy hands I commit my spirit !" And thus without the least symptom of uneasiness, she left a world of sorrow, to inherit eter- nal joy. (MS.) v" ^ -. O' ■%'■ J . ^ '• VV. . - / • * "■V i ,!* I BASTBUBXTfl WXXiL [It would be great injustice to the memory of Mr. Eastbum, not to record his pious concern for the spiritual interests of sea- men, even after his decease : and it is believed there can be ■noL better memorial of this instance of his Christian charity, than to publish iiis wffl; in which it will be perceived, that he devoted the far larger part Of his property, to make permanent provision for a preacher to the mariners when he should be no more, after having served them gratuitously ^hile he lived.] ■•■ '^♦^• With solemn reverence before the Lord, I, Joseph Eastburn^ of the city of Philadelphia, preacher of the gospel to ^e mariners, being of sound mind, memory, and judgment J and wishing while iji |uch a state to de- clare my last Will and Testament, with respect to that property which a kind Providence has intrusted to my stewardship, do ord^n this to be my last Will andTesta- ment, revoking all of a previous date. First, I commend my soul to the hands of my Re- deemer, to be presented by him, clothed with his right- eousness, before the throne of God, and my body to be fashioned like his own glorious body in the last great day. Second, After my executors shall have buried my body in a manner which to them shall seem fit, and which I desire may be done, if I die in Philadelphia, by the side of the grave of my wife in Arch-street burying ground, and shall have dischai^ed the expenses of my funeral, including one hundred dollars which I direct to be paid . to the trustees of the Second Presbyterian Church, for the ground, and all my just debts, then I give and be- queath the following legacies, to wit : — 178 APPENDIX. To Robert Eastburn, son of my deceased brother Robert, the sum of fifty dollars, and Scott's Bible, which he requested ; and to his son Joseph, my silver watch. To Thomas Eastbum, another son of my deceased brother Robert, the sum of sixty dollars. To Mary Ann Jones, daughter of my said brother, the sum of sixty dollars. To the two sons of Abigail Boyer, who are grandsons of my said brother, the sum of forty dollars to each of them, to be kept for them by Robert Eastburn, or Mary Ann Jones. To the daughters of my brother John Eastburn, who are poor, to wit : Sarah Eastburn and Maria Wells, to each of them the sum of one hundred dollars. > ' To my dear aged friend, captain Benjamin Wicks, for his kind attention to my poor son, one hundred dollars. To Mr. John Harncd, who has acted as clerk in our Mariner's Church, one hundred dollars. To the family of Mr Gilbert Gaw deceased, who was >vith us in the Mariner's Church from the first, one hun- dred dollars. :, The best cloak, the best hat, and the best coat in my wardrobe, given to such minister of the gospel, as my executors or a majority of them, may think proper, and the residue of my wearing apparel to my niece, Maria Wells, for the use of her children. The open stove, and the time-piece fixed abovfe it in the parlour of my dwelling, to remain as fixtures, and for the use of the family who for the time being may occupy the house. And to my housekeeper, Ann Mack, who has been very attentive to me for more than eight years, one hundred and fifty dollars, in addition to any wages which may be due to her at the time of my decease. And I do direct the foregoing legacies to be paid as soon after my decease as conveniently may be, by my executors. Third, I do give, devise, and bequeath all the rest, lesidue, and remainder of my estate, real and personal, whatsoever and wheresoever, to the Trustees of the r APPENDIX. 179 General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, in the United States of America, and to their successors and assigns for ever : to be held by them in trust, and for the use and purpose of supporting a preacher or preachers of the gospel to the manners, m and of the port of Phila- delphia : and for that end to pay over the clear net in- come or product of said estate, to such person or persons, as shall be designated to them by the Presbytery of Phil" adelphia as animated, zealous, and orthodox in preaching the everlasting gospel to said mariners ; and in visiting, as may be convenient to him or them, the hospitals, poor- houses, and prisons of Philadelphia : such payment to be made semi-annually : and the said Presbytery not to be liable to any claim from any preacher to the mariners, but upon their appointment of him, and agreement with him : and in default of any such designation by the Presbytery of Philadelphia, I will and direct, that the said income be applied and peid by the Trustees of the General Assembly of the Presb}'terian Church, in the United States of America, to and ibr such religious objects and purposes as they may thinlc proper : always desiring that my affection for the marin^irs, and my desire to promote the eternal interest of that class of my fellow-beings, may be, so far as is practicable, borne in niind, in the distribution of said income : and as^ whilst meditating alone, I thought of the kindness of ihe Lord to me in giving me a comfortable house, and sallowing me to live in it above forty-two years, I concluded it might be an encouragement to the Mariner^s Church to have it as a parsonage-house for the preacher, if appointed as above, for the time he may be the minister, he paying the taxes and repairs, 1 do there- fore authorize and empower the said trustees, to devote the house and lot where I now dwell to the said purpose of a parsonage-house for said church : to be occupied by the preacher for the time being, if he have a family ; but if he be a single man, and not desire to live in it, then to be rented for the use and benefit of said church, in the manner aforesaid. Last, I do appoint Robert Ralston, Jacob J. Jane- way, D. D., Mr. Jacob Dutton, Mr. Thomas Latimer, and 'W ^, ^^ IMAGE EVALUATION TEST TARGET (MT-3) // % A -\^:^; 4^ 1.0 1.1 IttlZl Hi J^ Bi 121 m 121 lit ^0 |20 IE 1.25 III . .4 ,,.6 ^ 6" ^ ^ ^fe <% VQ ^.^• ^ Photographic Sciences Corporation 23 WEST MAIN STREET WEBSTER, N.Y. 14580 (716) 872-4503 V iV •^ N iV ^ 180 APPENDIX. Hr. John WHlis, all of Philadelphia, to be the execaton of this my last tviU and testament. In witness whereof, I havfi heveanto set my halld^and .feaL, this twentv*foiirth.day of NoTember, in &e year of oiir Lord one thousand eight .hundred and twenty^even. JOSEPH EASTB URN. (Seal.) / Signed,' sealed, published, an^ declared, by Joseph " Eastburu, as and for his last WiU and Testament, in me presence ■ . . •f " » r ■- 'f .■■' SECOND APPEKDIX. r . » » ' It may be recollected that in the account given hy Mr. Elastbum of his first religious exercises, he mentions that his " father having been a prisoner amons the In- dians, brought his circumstances too low to afibrd his son more than a common English education/* A narra- tive of this Indian captivity was printed in 1758; and a copy of it was preserved with great care by Mr. Elastbunu It is certainly both entertaining and instructive; and it has been thought proper to preserve, in a sq)arate ap- pendix, this memorial of a father whom the subject of the foregoing memoirs greatly loved and venerated. As the \diole of this narrative, both in its substance and manner of statement, is calculated to exhibit the state of things in our country, in times long since gone by, it is given, with the title-page of the pamphlet which contains it, and the preface and recommendation by which it is in* troduced. . ' n m FA IH7I ..4(»' fO<»!fcTH A] Pttbluh PSALK CXli teeth: O broken, a PliALM ciii. redeemetl tender m« ,»«. //< yt. FAITHFUL NARRATIVE OP ...... — , THE MANY DANGERS AND SUFFERINGS, •"A8WELL AS WONDEB|tJIi &£LIVi:RAIf€£S' '.'.•' : ■■■ -.. '- '..OF."" ;'. .";■; ■ ' ROBBB'T EASTBiJKNr V . IMJIUNG HIS MTE CAPTIYlTV AMONG 1*HE l!Q>|ANS^ . ToocTsaJA wiTBt sdMX RBMABia uiTOjfTrtH^ covkTl^r or d43tfiibi» Ain> THS RKLiaiQN Ain> FOE,K$T OV UTS TKBAMtnKWtm\- ' ■ REFLECTIONS. "" . ' ' . ' BY ROBERT EASTBURN. Pvblithed at thi earnest reqttett of mamg friend*i-fiir the hen^ of the 4v*fMf. WITH A RECOMMEND AtoRT PREFACE^ BT THE REV. GILBERT TENNENl^. - Psalm cxziv. 6, 7.-— Blened be tbe Lord, -who Iwtli dot giv<« lis as a prey to their teeth : Our «oul ia escaped u a hird oat of the nare of the -fowlar : the sBaie ia brol^en, aod we are escaped. PtfALM ciii. 8, 4.— Bless the Lord, O my aoo); and fbrget not all his beneflis: Who redeemeth thy life from dtistructioii ; who cronvnetlr diee^vith loviiig-k|ndneiii aiid tender mercies. PHILADELPHIA: PRINTED BY WILLIAM DUNLAP. 1758. #•• PREFACE. • Caitdid' Reader, The Author (and subject) of the ensuing Narrstive (who is a deacon of our Church, and has been so for many years) is of such an establinhed good character, that he needs no recommendation of others^ where be ift known : a proof of whicb^ was the general joy of tlie uhabitants of this city, occasioned by his return from a mise- rable captivity; together with the readiness of divers persons, to contribute to the relief of himself and necessitous family, without any request of his, or the least motion of that tendency !— But, see- ing the following sheets are like to spread into many places where he is not known, permit me to say, that upon long acquaintance, I have found him to be a person of candor, integrity, and sincere piety ; whose testimony may with safety be depended upon, which gives his narrative the greater weight, and may induce to read it with the greater pleasure. The design of it is evidently pious. The matters contained 'm it, and manner of hanging them, will, I hope, be esteeoMd by tite Impartial, to beentertaining and improving, i heartily with it mny, by the divine benediction, m of great and du- rable service. I am thy sincere servant in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Philadelphia, Jan. 19, 1758. Gilbert Temnent. Kind Readers, Oif my return from my captivity, I had no thoughts of publishing any observations of mine to the world in this manner ; as I had no oppreter came to me tp inquire what strepgth Captain Wil- iams had to defend his fort? After a short pause I gave such a discouraging answer (yet consistent with truth) as prevented their attacking it, and of consequence the effu- sion of much blood — a gracious Providence, which I desire ever to retain a grateful sense of, for hereby it evidently appeared, tiiat I was suffered to fall into the hands of the enemy, to promote the good of my country- men to better purpose, tlian I could by continuing with them — ^verily, the Almighty is wise in council, and won- derful in working ! In the mean time, the enemy determined to destroy Bull's Fort, (at the head of Wood creek,) which they soon effected, all being put to the sword except five per- sons, the fort burnt, the provision and" powder destroyed; (saving only a little for their own use ;) then they retired to the woods, and joined their main body, which, inclu- sive, consisted of four hundred French and tliree hundred Indians, commanded by one of the principal gentlemen of Quebec. As soon as they got together (having a priest with them) they fell on their knees and returned thanks APPENDIX* 187 ed to idians chiefs ed an- Here- iii the ot fall as yet ed of; tio had iptivity I iuter- in wn- I gave ■uth) as le eflfu- irhich I reby it lie the ountry- ig with id won- destroy ;h they ve per- tro};e(l; retired I, inclu- lundred itlemen la priest thanks ibr their vtctoi^; an example tfatf, worthy of imitation— an example, which may make profiuie pretended Protest- ants blush, (if they are not lost to all sense of shame,) who, instead of acknowledging a God, or Providence, in their military undertakings, are continually reproaching him with oaths and curses; is it any wonder that the attempts of such are blasted with disappointinent and disgrace? The enemy had several wounded men, botlr French and Indians, among them, which they carried on their backs ; besidtes which, about fifteen of their number were killed, and of us about forty.: it being by this time near dark, and some Indians 4rank, they only marched about four miles and encamped ; the Indians un^ed my arms, cut hemlock bou^, and «trewed round the fire, tied my band to two trees, with my bkck on the,gi^n bou^, (by the fire,) covered, me with an old blanket, and lay dci^n across my band, on each side, to prevent my escape while (hey slept. ^ • > Sunday the 3&th,- rosg early ; the comDMtBder ordered a'ha^ retreat towards Canada, ibr fear of General John- sOn^in&emean time, one of our men said, he under* stood the French and Indians designed to join a stroi^ party, and fall on Oswego before our forces there coum get any provision or succours^ having, as tbey thought, put a stop to our relieving them for a time*^ Whe -^e encamped in the evening, Uie commanding officer orcic v\;d the Indians to bring me to his tent, and asked me, by an interpreter, if I thought GeneralJohnson would follow them? I told him I judged not, but rather thou^t he wQutd proceed to Oswego ; (which was indeed my senti* ment, grounded upon prior information, and then express* ed to prevent the execution of their design ;) he farther inquired, what was my trade ? I told him that of a smith ; he then persuaded me, when I got to Canada, to send for my wife, ' for (said he) yon can get a rich living there ;• but when be saw that he could not prevail, hie asked no more questions, but commanded me to return to n^y In- dian master: having this opportunity of conversation, I inibrmed the General that his Indian warriors had strip- ped me of my clothing, and would be glad he would be 188 APPENDIt. good enou^ to order me some relief; to which he repli- ed, that I would get clothes when I came to Canada, which was cold comfort to one almost frozen! On my return, the Indians perceiving 1 wwest from Montreal ; I staid here till the ice was epne, which was about ten days, and then was sent to Cohnewago, in company with some Indians, who, when they came within hearing, gave notice by their way of shouting that they had a prisoner ; on which the whole town rose to welcome me, which was the more distress- ing, as there was. no other prisoner in their hands; when we came near shore, a stout Indian took hold of me, and hauled me into the water, which was knee-deep and very cold. As soon as I got ashore, the Indians gathered round me, and ordered me to dance and sing, now when I was stiff with cold and wet, and lying long in- the canoe ; here I only stamped to prepsnre for my race, and was encom- passed with about five hundred Indians, who danced and sung, and at last gave a shout and opened the circle ; about one hundred and fifty young lads made ready to pelt me with dirt and gravel stones, and on my setting off gave me a stout volley, without my suffering great hurt; but an Indian seeing me run, met me, and held me fast till the boys had stored themselves again with dirt and small stones, and let me run ; but then I fared much worse than before, for a small stone among the mud hit my right eye, and my head and face were so covered with dirt, that I could scarce see my way, but discovering a door of an Indian house standing open, I run in : from this retreat I was soon hauled, in order to be pelted more ; but the Indian women, being more merciful, interposed, took me into a house, brought me water to wash, and gave me boiled com and beans to eat. The next day I was brought to the centre of the town, and cried accord- ing to the Indian custom, in order to be sent to a family of Indians, two hundred miles up stream, at Osweeotchy, and there to be adopted, and abused no more. To this end I was delivered to three young men, who said I was their brother, and set forward on our way to the aforesaid « ^ m APPENDIX. town*^ with about twenty more Indians, but by reason of bad weather we were obliged to encamp on a cold, stony shore three days, and then proceeded on ; called at Con- asadauga, staid there about a week, in which time I went and viewed four houses at a distance from the town, about a quarter of a mile from each other, in which are represented, in large paint work, the sufferings of our Saviour, with design to draw the Indians to the Papists' religion; the work is curiously done. A little farther stand three houses near together on the top of a high hill, which they call Moimt Calvary,, with three large crosses before them, which complete the whole representation. ,To all these houses the priests and Indians repair, in performing their grand processions, which takes up much time.* Set offon jOur journey for Oswegotchy, against a rapid stream, and being long in it, and our provision growing short, the Indians put to shore a Httle before night; my lot wag to get wood, others were ordered to get &re, and some to hunt ; our kettle was put over die fire withson^ pounded Indian com, and after it had boiled about two hours, my oldest Indian brother returned with a she-bea- ver, big with young, which he soon cut to pieces, and threw into the kettle, together with the guts, and took the four young beavers, whole as they came out of the dam, and put mem Ukewise into the kettle, and when all was well boiled, gave each one of us a lai^e dish full of the broth, of whicli we eat freely, and then part of the old * The pains the Papists take to propagate such a bloody and absurd religion as theirs, is truly amazing. This brings to my remembrance the following discourse I had with two French priests in my captivity : one of them asked me, if I was a Catholic ? appre- hending the Romish religion, I answered, no; he replied, no oon. On my relating the above to a fellow-prisoner, he said, I had an- swered wrong, because by the word Catholic he meant a Christian. Some time after I was again asked by the other priest, if I was a Catholic ? I answered, yes, but not a Roman Catholic ; at which he smiled, and asked, if I was a Lutheran ? I replied, no ; he again inc[uired, whether I was a Calvinist ? I told him I was ; to which he warmnew in promoting the religion of the Bible? mtmmtmm'mmi wilimmifm APPENDIX. 195 in was the old ippre- oon. id an- istian. Vetver, the tail of whkh was divided equally among us, there being eight at our fire ; the four young beavers were cut in the middle, And each of us got half of a beaver ; I wlktehed ah opportunity to hide my share, (having satis^ fied myself belbre that tender dish came to hand,) which if they had se«i, would have much displeased them. The other Indians catched young muskrats, ran a stick through their bodies, and roasted, without being skinned or gutted, and so eat them. Next morning, hastened on our journey, which continued several days, till we came near Oswegotchy, where we landed about three .miles from the town, on the contrary side of the river ; here I was to be adopted — ^my father and mother that I had. 4iever seen before were waiting, and ordered me into an 'ndian house, where we wer^ directed to sit'down silent A>r a considerable time; the Indians appeared -very sad, Bnd my moti^er began to cry, and continued crying aloud mr some time, and then dried up her tears sod received me for her son, and took me over the rivvr to the Indian town; ^ next day I was ordered to go to fXiMi with tbem^ butl refused once alid again, yet they continued their ^ importunity several days, saying -it was good to go to naass, but r s 111 re&tsed; and seeing they could not prevail with me, they seemed much disple^ed with their new son^^ I was then sent over the river to be employed in hard labor, as a punishment for not going to mass, and not allowed a sid^t of, or any conver- sation with, my fellow-prisoners^ The old Indian man that I was ordered to work with, had a wife and some children ; he took me into the woods with him, and made signs that I must chop, giving me an axe — the Indian soon I ■ I I " - - — - - - ■- — • — * When I was at Oswegotchy, the Indians took notice tiiat I fre- queatly retired alooe^ ancTsupposinff I bad some bad design, threat- oaed, if I did npt desist, they would tomahawk me; but my fellow- prisoner, who understood their language, told them it would be a pity to hurt me on that account, for I only went into a private placo to pray — wtdoh was true; the Indians replied, if so, it was good; but being yet suspicious, took pains, by watching, to find out how the.c&se was, and when they satisfied tnemselres. seemed pleased, and did iK>t offer to intemmt me any more, which was a great mercy ; as the contrary would have, in sane degree, marred my oonverse with God. ,-^, ^, ^,^. ._.„,, ._. -- ^v i 196 APPENDIX. saw that I could handle the axe : here I tried to reconcile myself to this employ, that they might have no occasion against me, except concerning the law of my God. The old man began to appear kind, and his wife gave me milk and bread when we came home, and when she got fish, gave me the gills to eat out of real kindness ; but per^ cerving I did not like them, gave me my own choice, and behaved lovingly. Here I saw that God could make friends of cruel enemies^ as he once turned the heart of angry Esau into love and tenderness : when we had finisfa- ed our fence, whicb had employed Us about a week, I showed the old squaw my shirt (having worn it from the time I was first taken prisoner, which was about seven weeks) all in rags, dirt, and lice ; she said it wasnotgood^ and brought me a new one, with ruffled sleeves, saying that is good, which I thankfully accepted. The next day they carried ^me back to the Indian town, and admitted me to converse with my feHow prisoners, who told me we weie Wi to be sent to Montreal, which accordingly came to pass. • ^ Montreal At our arrival here, we had our lodgmg first in the Jesuit^s Convent, where I saw a great number of priests, and people that came to confession ; afler some stay, we were ordered, to atfend, with the Indians, at a grand council, held before Uie head General Yaudriel; we prisoners sat in our rank, surrounded with our Others and brethren, but were asked no questions : tiie General had a number of officers to attend him in council, where a noted priest, called Picket, sat at his right hand, who understands the Indian tongue well, and does more hurt to the English, than any other of his order in Canada (his dwelling is at Oswegotchy.) Here I was informed that some measures were concerted to destroy Oswego, which they had b6en long preparing to execute; we in our jour- ney met many batteaux going up stream, with provision and men for an attack on our frontiers, which confirmed the report. The council adjourned to another day, and then broke up. My Indian father and mother tooi^ me with them to several of their old acquaintance, who were French, to show them their lately adopted son; these persons had been concerned with my father and other Indian young! their li ders! fore V, ofTered carryii labore( ents ol knowii liams, I my fan for red( being e wine-tc came t skins (1 powder own us mother if I ptei decJmin affected * T^e ] having th unjust 4e the (bUoin viss. Thf] sold to thi of it, thei ment iafl occasion, add, t^at inhftbitanl in case w( with a But continual! large bodi uponlong borders; a and ravag beat withi them, the} ■ions, whic us entirely ■ m iiii w I ▲pn&!n>ix. 197 the Iwere Ithese )ther Indians, in destroying man^ English families in their younger days; %nd (as one standing by, who understood their language, said,) were boasting of their fonner mur- ders ! After some days the council was again called, be- fore which) several of the Oneida chiefs appeared, and offered some complaint Against the French''s attacking our carrying place, it being their land ; but the General labored to make them easy, and gave them sundry pres- ents of vahie, which they accepted :* after which, I knowing these Indians were acquainted with Captain Wil- liams, at the carrying place, sent a letter by them, to let my family and frien<£ knoW I was yet alive, and longed for redemptions but it never came to hand. The treaty bei^g ended, th^ General sent about ten gallons of red wine^to the Indians, which they divided among us; after came the presents, consisting of coats, blankets, shirts, skins (to make Indian shoes,) cloth (to make stockings,) powder, lead, shot, and to each a bag of paint, for theijr own use, &c. After we prisoners had our share, my mother came to me with an interpreter, and told me I might stay in the town, at a place she had found for me, if I pleased (this was doubtless, the consequence of my declming to obey her orders, in some instances that aifiected my oonscience^) this proposal 1 almost agreed to; * TIbie French in Canada, inrell knowing the great importanceof having the Indiana in their interest, to promote tbeii^ ambitious and unjust 4«sngns, use a vari^y of methods with them, among which the foUowing one is excellent in itself, and well worthy of imitation, Viz. Thi^y are ex<;eeding careful to prevent spirituous liquors being sold to the Indians, and if any cf the inhabitants are proved guilty of it, theif temporal interest is quite broke, and corporal punish- ment iBflicte4 on them; unless the General, on some particular occasion, orders his commissioners to d^ver some to them. I may add. that knowing their number is«mall, compared with the British inhabitants on tiiis continent, and must quickly fall into their handf, in case we united, and entered boldly into the heart of their country with a sufficient force ; foi* that very reason, they choose to keep us continually on the defensive, by sending, v^hen occasion .reqmret, large bodies of regulars, together with great numbers of Indian*, upon- long and tedious marcnes, that we may not come near their borders; and especially by employing the latter, constantly to waste and ravage our frontiers, by which we are murdered by inehes,and beat without a battle. By what I could learn when I was among them, they do not fear our numbers, because of our unhappy divi- sions, which they deride, and from them, strongly expect to conquer us entirely, which may a gracious God in mercy prevent. * ". 198 APPSNDIZ. but one of my fS^ow prisoners, wi& ^tiom I had hekft. some discourse, about making our escape from the lodiBii town, opposed the motion, and said, "pray do not staiy, fbr if you do, we shall not be able to form a plan for our deliverance;^ on which I told her I chose to go home with her, and soon set off by land in our way thither, to Lascheen, distant from Montreal about nine miles, where we left our canoes, and then proceeded, without deky, on our journey ; in which I saw, to my sorrow, great numbers of soldiers, and much provisioos^ in motion to* wards Lake Ontario. ^ • J After a painful and distressing journey, we arrived at Os wegotchy, where we likewise saw many b^tteaux, with frovision and soldiers, daily passing, by iii their way to 'rontenac, which greatly distressed me for Oswego. Hence I resolved, if possible^ to give our people notree of their danger. To this end, I told two of my fellow prisoners, that it was not a time to sleep, and asked if they would, go witiime> to tins they heartily agreed ; but we had no provision, were desebr eyed by the enemy, and could not lay up a stock out of o«ir aHoMwnoe. Moinih^ ever, at thb time Mr. Picket (befi»re raentioiied} had concluded to dig a large tceneh round tbe~town ; I there- fore went to a negro, the principal manager of this r/ork (who could speak English, French, and Indian weH,) and asked him, if he. could get employ for two others and my- self, which he soon did ; for which we were to have meat and wages. Here we had a prospect of procuring provi- sion for our flight ; this, J in some time effected wr my- self, and then asked my brethren if they were ready, who replied they were not yet, but said^ Ann Bdwman, our fellow prisoner, bad brought one hundred and thirty dollars from BulPs fort, and would give them, all they had need of; I told them it was not safe to disclose such a secret to her, but they blamed me for niy fears^ and ap- plied to her for provision, letting her know our intention, who immediately informed the priest of it ; on which we were apprehended, the Indians apprized of our desi^, and a court called; by order of wmch, four of us were confined under a strong guard, in a room within the fort, for several days. AFPBRDIZ. IM From hence, another andinjielf were sent to Cohne* wago, under a strong guard of sixtr Indiant, to prevent my plotting any more a^inst thei^ French, and banish all^ hope of my escape. However, when we arrived at this place, it pleased that gnicioua God« who. hai^ the hearts of all creatures in his hand, to incline the captain of the guard, to show me great kindness, in giving me liberty to walk or work where I pleased^ within any snmll distance ; on which t went to work with a French smith, for six livres and five sous per week ; which the captain let me have to mpfeelf, and farther favored me with the privi- ledge of lodging at his mother^s house, an English woman (named Maip, Harris, taken captive when a child, from Dearfield, ilii New-England) who told me she was mr grand-mother, and was kind ; but the wages being small, and not sufficient to procure such ciothii^ as 1 was in want of, I proceeded no &rtber with the French smttii, but went to my uncle Peter, and told him I wante^d clothes^ and that it would he better to let me gcrfo Moatical, and work there, where I could clothe myself better, than by itftying wttbhim, and thai without any charge to him, who after some reasoning consented.. Set off on m3rioumey to Montreal, and on my enterii^ the city met an En|li8h smith, who took me to work With him ; after some time„ we settled to work in a shop, op- posite to the GeneraFs door, where we had the opporw tunity of seeing a great part of the forces of Canada (both soldiers and Indians) who were commonly brought there, before their going out to war; and likewise all prisoners, by which means we got intelligence how our people were preparing for defence ; but no good news from Oswego, which made me fear, knowing that ^reat numbers of French were gone against it, and heanng of but few to defend it. Prayers were put up in all the churches of Canada, and great processions made, in order to procure success to their anns against poor Oswego ; but our people knew little of their danger, till it was too late : certainly^ if more frequent and earnest application (both in private and public) was made to the God of battle, we might, with greater probability, expect success would crown pur military attempts. To my surprise, the dismal news S soo APPENDIX. came, that the French had taken one of the Osweso forts ; in a few hours, in confirmation of this, I saw the English standards (the melancholy trophy of victory) and the French rejoicing at our downfall, and mocking us poor prisoners, m our exile and extremity, which was no great ai|;ument either of humanity, or true greatness of mind ; great ioy appeared in all their faces^ which they expressed by loud shouts, firing of cannon, and retumins thanks in their churches ; but our faces were covered With shame, and our hearts filled with grief I Soon after, I saw seve- ral of the officers brought in prisoners, in snrilll parties, and the soldiers in the same manner, and confined within the walls, in a starving condition, in order tp make them work, which some complied with, but others bravely refiised; and last of all came the tradesmen, unong whom was my son, who looking round saw his lather, who he thought had Ibng been dead ; this joyiul sight so affected Jiim, that he wept ! nor could I, in seeing my son, remain unconceraedl — no; the tenderness of a. father^s bowels, upon so extraordinary an occasion, I am -not able to ex- press, and therefore must cover it with a ¥eil of silenceJ — but he, with all my Philadelphia friends, being guarded by soldiers, with fixed bayonets, we could not come near each other: they were sent to the common pound; but I hastened to the interpreter, to try if I could get my child at liberty, which was soon effected ! When we had the happiness of an interview, he gave me some information of the state of our family, and told me, as soon as the news were sent home, Uiat I was killed, or taken, his mother was not allowed any more support from my wages, which grieved me much, and added to my other afflictions \^ * In the mean timev it gare me some pTeft8ui!«,in this situation, to see an expression of equal duty and prudence in my son'« conduct, who, though young in years (about seventeen] and in Kuch a con- Aised state oi things, had taken care to ISrihg, with much labor and &tigtie, a large bundle of considerable value to me, it being cloth- ing, 4rc* whien I Was in great need of; he likewise saved a quantity ofwampum, which we brought fyom New- York, and afterwards sold liere,fbr«ie hundred and fifty livres. He travelled with me part of the journey towards Oswego, but not being so far on his way, as I was when taken, he did not then fall into the enemy's hands, but continued free tillOsweeo was taken, and was then remarkably de- fivered fitxn.tibe bands oTthe Indians, in the fbUowing mannen AfLsen APPENDIX. 201 When the people taken at Osweto, were letting out on their way to Quebec, I made apphcation for liberty to CO with them ; but the interpreter replied, that I was an Indian prisoner, and the General wouM not suffer it, till the Indians were satisfied ; and as they lived two hundred miles from Montreal, it could not be done at that tinne. Finding that all arguments farther on that bead, would not avail, because I was not included in the capitulation; I told the interpreter, my son must go and leave me ! in order to be ready at Quebec to go home, when the Oswego people went, which probably would be soon; he xeplied, *•'' it would be better to keep him with me, for he might be a roeali to get me clear much sooner." The officers belonginj^ to Oswego, would gladly have had me with them, but found it impracticable ; this n an instance of kindness and condestension, for which 1 am obliged ! Captain Bradley gave me a good coat, vest, and shirt ; and a young gentleman, who formerly lived i^ Philadelphia, gave four pistolei (bit Dfttne is Jinies Stone, he was Doctor at Oswego.) These generous expressions of kindness and humanity, I am under great obligations young lads were drafted out to he delurered to them (whieb, from their Known custom, it is reasonahle to conclude, wu to fill up the number th^ had lost in the battle) among which he. was one^ This barbarous design, which is contrary to the laws of war, amtrng all civilized nations, -the French artfully concealed, und^r the pretext of sending them to work in the batteaux; but my chfld taking notice, that all that were chosen were small lads, doubts their rciu inten- tion was bad, and therefore slipt out of his rank and cmxsealed him- self, by which means, under God, he was preserved from a state of perpetual captivity *< his place being filled up in his absence, the other unhappy youths wefe delivered up a sacrifice to the Indian enemy, to be instructed in popish principles, and employed in mur- empire, doubtless the pardons they get from their pope, and their priests, embolden them, which brings to my mind, what I saw when among them. On a sabbath day, perceiving a great eonconrse of people at a chapel, built on the commons, at some distance firom tiie city, I went to see what was the occasion, and found a kind of a fair, at which were sold cakes, wine, brandy, &c. ^ I likewise saw many carts and chaises attending, the chapeF doors in the mean time open, numbers of people going in and out, and a board hanging over the door, on which was written, in large letters, INDUL- GENCE PLENARY, or FULL PARDON, -M 202 APPENDIX. to remember with affectionate gratitude, and if ever it be in the cqmpaBS of my power, to requite. This money, together wim what my son brought, I was in hopes would go (ar towards procuring my release, from my Indian masters ; but seeing a number of prisoners in sore distress, amons which were, the Captains Grant and Shepherd, and about seven more in company, I thought it my duty to relieve them, and commit my release to the disposal of Providence. Nor was this suffered to turn to my dis- advantage in the issue, for my deliverance was brought about in due time, in another and unexpected way. This company informed me of their intention to escape; accord- ingly I gave them all the help in my power, saw them clear of the town, on a Saturday evenine before the sen- tries were set at the gates, and advised mem not to part from each other, and delivered to Captain Shepherd two pocket-compsBses; but they, contrary to this counsel, part- j&d, and saw each other no more. By their separating. Captain Grant and Seijeaut Newel, were deprived of the benefit of a compass ; the other part «>t safe to fort 'William Henry, as I was informed by Seijeant Henrys who was brought in prisoner, being taken in a battle, when gaUant, indefatigable Captain Rogers, made a brave stand, against more than twice his number ; but I have not heai^ any account of Captain Grant — was enabled, through much mercy, to continue communicating some relief to other prisoners, out of the wages I received for my labor, which was forty livres per month. In the latter part of the winter, coal and iron were so scarce, that I was hard set to get any more work ; I then offered to work for my diet and lodging, rather than be thrust into a stinking dungeon, or sent among the Indians. The interpreter took some pains (which I thankfully acknowledge) but without success; however, as I offered to work without wages, a Frenchman took me and my son in, upon these terms, till a better birth presented; here we staid one week, but heard of no other place : then he ofiered me and my son thirty livres per month, to strike and blow the bellows, which I did for about two months, and then was dischai^ed, and travelled about from place to place, having no &Led abode, and was obliged to lay "> — -^---iJ.' .^~- APPENDIX. 209 out the small remains of my cash, in bujine a little victuals, and toolc a hay-lofl for my lodging ; I t£en made my case known to the kind inteq>reter, and reqaet ted him to consider of some means for my relief, who replied he would ; in the mean time, aS I was foking a wafk in the city, 1 met an Indian prisoner, that bekmt^d to the town where my father lived, who reported, mat a great part of the Indians there, were juat come, with a resolu- tion to carry me back with them ; knd knowing him to be a very honest fellow, I believed the truth of it, and fled from the town to be concealed from the Indians; in the mean while, schemes were formed for an escape, and well prosecuted, the issue of which was fortunate. General V audriel gave me and my son liberty (under his hand) to go to Quebec; and WOrk there at our pleasure, without confinement, as prisoners of war; by wmcb means, I Was freed from paj^ing a ransom. \ , The commissary^ Motisieiir Pinttre, beif^ albdiit to sc^ off for Quebec, lO^ son infontied me tbtft \ most come to town in the evemng, a passage being provided fOr us ; f waited till pear dark, and^en entered the town, with great care, to escape the Indians, who kept watch fornoe (and had done sO for some time) which isade itTery diffi- cult and dangerous to move ; however, as they bad no knowledge of my son, he could watch their mOtioiis, with- out their suspicion (the providence of God is a great deep; this help was provided ror my extremity^ not only beyond my expectation, but contrary to my design.) In the morn- ing, upon seeing an Indian set to watch for me, over against the house I was in, I quickly made nay escape, through the back part of the house, over some hieh pickets, and out of the city, to the river side, and fled! A friend knowing my scheme for deliverance, kindly assisted me to conceal myself. The commissary had by this time got ready for his voyage, of which my son giving me notice, I immediately, with no lingering motion, repaired to the boat, was received on boara, set off quite undiscovered, and saw the Indians no more! A very narrow and surprising escape, from a violent death ! (for they had determined to kill me, in case I ever attempted to leave them ;) which lays me under the strongest obliga- 82 5» Jfc:> 204 APPENDIX. tions, to impi^ve a life rescued from the jaws of to many deaths, to me honour of mj gracious Benefactor ! — But to return, the commissary, upon seeing the dismission I had from the General, treated us courteously I* Arrived at Quebec, Mapr 1st The honorable Colonel Peter iScAfiy/«r, hearing of my coming there, kindly sent for me, and aAer inquiries about my welfare, &c. gene- rously told me, I should be supplied, and need not trouble myself for jiupport. This public spirited gentleman, who is indeed an nonour to his country, did, in like manner^ nobly relieve many other poor prisoners at Quebec ! — Here I had full liberty to walk where I pleased, and view the city, which is well ^tuated for strength, but far from being impregnable. Here, 1 hop^, it will jiot be judged improper, ^ give a short hint oi^the French governor's conduct; even in time of peace, he gives the Indians great encouragement to munler ami eaptivi^ the. poor inhabitants on our frontiers; a^ honest, ^ood man, named WiUiam Ross, was taken prisoner twice in the time of peace ; when he was first taKen, he learned a little of the French tongue, was afteir sofne time redeemed, and ^ot to his place of abode. Yet some years after, he, with two sons, was again taken, and brought to Quebec ; the governor, seeing the poor man was lamie, and one of his legs smaller than the other, reproved the Indians for not killing him, asking, ** what they brought a lame man there for, who could do nothing but eat; you should (said he) have brought his scalp!" However, another of his countrymen, more merciful than his excellency, knowing the poor prisoner to be a quiet, hard-working man, redeemed him from the Indians; and two other Frenchmen bought his two sons. Here they had been slaves more than three years, when * Saw many houses and Tillages in our pass along the river St. Xjavrrence towards the metropolis ; and here it may he with justice obsoT.ed, that the inhahitants of Canada in general, are principally (if not wholly] settled upon- riyera, hy reason that their hack lancb Ming flat MM swampy, are therefore unfit to bear grain. Their if^eat is sown ia the spring of the year, because the winter is long, lOM would drown it; they seem to have noeood notion of makine mcndow (so fiur as I had an opportunity of observing) their homed ^ttle are few and poor, their living in general mean, they eat but little flesh, iierertheMss tiiey are strwig and hardy. ^.NDIX. 206 I first arrived at Quebec ; thii account I had from Mr. Ro8i himself, who farther added, that the governor me the Indians presents, Co encourage them to proceed, in that kind or work, which is a scandal to any civilized nation, and what many pagan* would abhor ! Here also, I saw one Mr. Johnson, who was taken in a time of peace, with his wife, and three small children (his wife was big with child of a fourth, and delivered on the road to Canada, which she called Captive) all which had been prisoners between three and four years : several young men, and his wife^s sister, were likewise taken captive with them, and made slaves. ^Our cartel being ready, 1 obtained liberty to go to Eng« land in her; we set sail the 33d of July, 1757, in tTO momingi and dischai^ed our pilot about four o^clock in the afternoon ; after which, we neither cast anchor or lead, till we got clear of the great river St Lawrense, ft-om which, I conclude, thenavigativa bnracb lalBrthan the French have refiorted; in twenty-eight da vs we arriv- ed at Plvmouth^ i^nicb occasioned great joy, for we were ragged, lousy, sick, and in a manner, starved'; and many of the prisoners, who in all were about three hundred in number, were sick of the small-pox. My son and self, having each a blanket coat (which we bought in Canada to keep us warm) and now expecting relief, gave them to two poor sick men, almost naked ! but as we were not allowed to go on shore, but removed to a king^s ship, and sent to Portsmouth, where we were still confined on board, near two weeks, and then removed to the Mermaid, to be sent to Boston; we now repented our well meant, though rash charity, in giving our coats away, as we were not to get i^ny more, all application to tiie captain for any kind of covering being in vain ; our joy was turned into sorrow, at the prospect of coming on a cold coast, in the beginning of winter, almost naked, which was not a little increased, by a near view of our mother country^ the fioil and comforts of which, we were not suffered to touch or taste.* * On board the Mermaid man of war, being in a distressed condi- tion, and hearing little from the mouths of many of my countrvmen, but oaths and curses (which much increased my a£9iioti«•• I APPENDIX. 207 suitably improved ; at Newport, met with Captain Gibbs, and agreed with him for our passage to New- York, where we arrived, November Slst; met with many friends, who expressed much satisfaction at our return, and treated U8 kindly, particularly Messrs. Livingston, and Waldron. November 3Cth, 1757. Arrived at Philadelphia, to the great joy of all my friends, and particularly of my poor afflicted wife and family, who thought they should never see me again, till we met beyond the grave ; being re- turned, sick and weak in body, and empty-handed, not having any thing for my family ^s and my own support, several humane and generous persons, of different de- nominations, in this city (without any application of mine, directly or indirectly) have freely given seasonable relief; for which, may God grant them blessings in this world, and in the world to come everlasting life, for Christ ^s sake ! Now, God, in his great mercy, hath granted me a tem- Eoral salvation, and what is a thousand times better, he ath given me with it, a soul-satisfying evidence of an eternal in the world to come ! And now, what shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits? alas! I am nonplussed! Oh that saints and angels might praise thee, for I am not worthy to take thy name into my mouth any more ! yet notwithstanding, tibiou art pleased to accept poor endeavors, because Jesus Christ has opened the door, whereby we may come boldly to the throne of thy grace, praised be the Lord God Jeho- vah, by men and angels, throughout all eternity ! But to hasten to the conclusion, suifer me with humil- ity and sorrow to observe, that our enemies seem to make a better use of a bad religion, than we of a good one ; they rise up long before day in winter, and go through the snow in the coldest seasons, to perform their devotions in the churches ; which when over, they return to be ready for their work as soon as day-light appears. The Indians are as zealous in religion, as the French : they oblige their children to pray morning and evening, partic- ularly at Conasadauga; are punctual in performing their stated acts of devotion themselves, are still and peaceable in their own families, and among each other as neigh- bours I 208 APPENDIX. Wheni compared out manner of living with theirs, it made me fear thai the righteous and jealous God (who is wont to make judgment begin at his own house first) wad about to deliver us into their hands, to be severely pun- ished for our departure from lum ; how long has he wait- ed for our return ! O that we may therefore turn to him, before his anger break out into a flame, and there be no remedy! Our case appears to me indeed very gloomy ! notwith- standing our enemies are inconsiderable in number, com- pared with us ; yet they are united as one man, while we may be justly compared to a house divided against itself, and therefore cannot stand long, in our present situation. May almighty God, graciously incline us to look to him for fleliverance^ to repent of our sins, reform our lives, and unite in the vigorous and manly use of all proper means to this end. Amen. Ih.^^>.>il!^^ .^'W>4ii^. THE END. **' „ H#-*-- ..H . i , 1 : f--:yjii. ■•jfcf ■ j.i '^m \. .' , .».' '■> t m i wi' "B Bj i ' I -M l ii Ji i i m mtmmmlm>mmt»mif^ii>t Jp- ff . ^„.V;