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OS,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA.
TOGETHER WITH
Intwkttorn ®l)serljitttons for %mmi$,
AND
put ^ipnUm,
CONTAINING ALL SUITABLE INFORMATION FOR
EMIGRANTS, &c.
BY THE
KEY. W. G. CAMPBELL,
OENERAI. MISSIONARY, AND AUTHOR OF "TUB APOSTLE OF KERRY."
"Many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased."— Dan. xli. 4.
LONDON:
ELLIOTT STOCK, 62 PATERNOSTER ROW,
Also
DUBLIN : JOHN ROBERTSON & CO. 3 GRAFTON STREET
J. GOUGH, 6 EUSTACE STREET.
And or thk Author, 96 Carysfort Avbnub, Blackbook, Dublik,
1871. :___.-
JJUBLIN :
R. T. WHITI!, HTBAM rilR'S PRTNTK';
45 FLItKT 9TRKET
TO
ANDERSON l^OWLRR, ESQ.
TIPPERARY, IRELAND,
(LATH OF NKW YORK,)
AS A
SMALL TOKEN OP THE HIGHEST PERSONAL ESTEEM,
AND ALSO,
IN ORATEFUL REMEMBRANCE
OF THE DEEP INTEREST WHICH HE,
AND OTRCB MEMBERS OP HIS FAMII T TOOK
IN THE AUTHOR'S RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA,
BY
THE AUTHOR.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
PAOB
Voyage ont, and reflections on the same ; . . . 1
CHAPTER II.
First, week's jourual and lalours in Now York, &c. . . 20
CHAPTER III.
Centenary Celebration of John-street Church, New York. . 38
CHAPTER IV.
Moral Heroes — Cenotaphs and Epitaphs. .... 47
CHAPTER V.
Second week in New York— Irish affairs, &r, ... 66
CHAPTER VI.
New York in sunshine and in shade. 69
CHAPTER VII.
Cincinnati, "the Queen City of the West." . . .79
CHAPTER VIII.
Philadelphia, " the Quaker City." ^r ^ , .... 89
VI CONTENTS.
ERRATA.
PAGE.
LINE^
ERBOB.
vii.
27
Genose,
xiii.
13
Portload,
25
22
Julius Cresar,
34
28 & 38
Dr. Durban,
62
6
Rev. Mr. Rutledge,
149
44
language of Bishop Sim
164
10
street.
180
29
Saul.
187
28
brime,
207
38
Messenger,
Paob
CHAPTER IX.
L3okport City— Niagara, Statoa side— Canada West, Cliutou, Ao. 103
CHAPTER X.
Torjato and Montreal — Intermoliatc plaooa. • • 118
CffAPTER XI.
Rjtarn to Upper Canada— Soveral places revisited * . 180
CHAPTER Xn.
Niagara agaiu — Canadian or British side — New York again, Sio. 148
CHAPTER XIII.
Final visit to Canada — Montreal — Goderioh, Sco. — Conference
at Toronto — Farewell to friends, to Canada, to Now York,
and to America in general 160
CHAPTER XIV.
Voyage Home— Arrival at Queenatown — Irish Contorence in Cork 170
APPENDIX A.— Emigrants to Canada and the States . . 203
APPENDIX B— Social and Domestic Habits of America. 204
APPENDIX C— Church Usages in Canada and States . 205
APPENDIX D.— Miscellaneous— George Washington . . 206
Signs of the Times—Literary Curioaity — Conclusion , . 208
CORRECTION.
Genoese.
Portland.
Tiberius Cfcsar.
Dr. Durbin.
Rev. Mr. Ridgeway.
language quoted by.
sheet.
soul.
brine.
Massenger.
PREFACE.
" I.iilii|i)>l Hiil'i) Ixiyoiid life'M nm,
We ne'er from chilst slmll pail ;
There all In perfect hiirinouy,
We shall ba one in heart."
[IIAT ! another book on America ? We answer yes,
and very likely, soon another, and another still,
to follow in quick succession ; and after all, the
tale will not be told. The New World, a great name, but a
grejiter reality ; a world of wonders, an almost unbounded
country ; in fact, a hemisphere which embraces portions of
all the civilized nations of the earth. Its natural products
are equally as varied and abundant. What wonderful
mysteries and revolutions has the history of our world un-
folded to human view, since the 12th of October, 1492,
when Christopher Columbus, the great Spanish Navigator,
landed on the shore of one of the Bahama Islands, which he
called San Salvador, or Saint Saviour ; and although the
word America is derived from a subsequent Florentine Navi-
gator, called Amerigo, yet the honour of discovery can never,
with any propriety, be attributed to any one but Columbus.
It was he who reasoned out the existence of the New World,
and practically ascertained its truth ; his was the most re-
markable maritime enterprize in the history of the world ;
it formed a connection between Europe and America, which
will never be broken while the world lasts ; and therefore the
undivided acknowledgement must instrumentally be ascribed
to the Genose Navigator ; but all the glory to the Giver of
every good and perfect gift. The writer will be able only
Viil PREFACE.
to direct tLo reader's attention to a few of the States, and
to pacts of British America, to those which he visited, and
from which he so recently returned. He feels somewhat
diffident in entering on a subject on which so much has been
written ; but looking at the subject from a religious as well
as a social stand-point, and taking his narrative princi-
pally from personal observations, as well as from the most
authentic resources, he hopes the work will be of consider-
able advantage to the emigrant, especially to the religious
emigrant, as well as a source of pleasurable satisfaction
to the tourist and to those who have friends in that country.
And while he does not at all lend himself to unqualified
emigration, yet he knows that for many years to come it will
awaken increasing interest in all parts of Europe. The
discovery of the country, its settlements by Anglo-Saxon
colonies, tend to enhance that interest ; but the encourage*
ment lately afforded by the English Government to emi-
grate to Canada, will vastly increase the tide of emigration
to that dominion. The very word " New World " or America,
has just now a kind of charm, particularly for the young
adventurer. The Atlantic is unchained by steam, and by
telegraphic despatch ; and reminds one of Alexander Selkirk's
soliloquy in tl:.e Island of Juan Fernandez —
" How swift is a glanoo of the mind,
f Compared with the speed of its flight ;
The tempest itself lags behind,
And the swift- winged arrows of light."
In America invention is quickened by the freedom of
competition ; its labour is rewarded by unexampled returns.
Its peace is not maintained by great military establish-
ments ; public opinion rules without regimental troops, ex-
cept on the sea-board, and the frontier. Her navy spreads
her banner on every sea, and extends her enterprize to every
clime. Her national resources are developed by culture.
PRBPACB. IX
And every man is froo. New states ore yearly added to her
boundlesB territory. Canals intersect tlie plains and cross
the highlands. The steam power annihilates distance by
its accelerated speed. Its wealth is increased four-fold, and
its population doubled in every twenty-two years. Religion
is neither persecuted nor paid. Intelligence is vastly dif-
fused with unparalleled universality, and her steam-press
teems with the mental acquisitions of all nations and ages.
Emigrants, of various lineage, constantly crowd her chores.
Her constitution opens an asylum to the virtuous, the unfor-
tunate and the oppressed of every nation under heaven.
350 years ago, her territory was one unproductive waste ;
no monument of art ; its inhabitants barbarians ; the axe
and the ploughshare unknown ; its soil wasted and lavished
its strength in useless, but magnificent vegetation, and only
gathered fertility from the repose of centuries. Its im-
mense domain was a solitude ; but as the fortunes of nations
are not under the control of blind destiny, it has awoke
from the slumber of ages, and follows now in the steps of a
favouring Providence, which has called itb noble institu-
tions into being, and which are the birth-right and the pal-
ladium of their civil, social, and religious liberty and pros-
perity. These institutions, the Americans hope, will act on
European states, and regenerate the Old World ; in fact,
their vast resources and institutions are almost more in cha-
racter with " fable and with song," than with reality ; for
when we consider her mighty forests, her majestic moun-
tains, her ocean lakes, her splendid rivers, her magnificent
estuaries, her mysterious rapids, her gigantic Niagara, her
lineless sea coast, her sheltered sounds, her encircled bays,
her commodious harbours, her fruitful harvests, her varied
productions, her healthful climate, her exuberant minerals,
her illimitable railways, her ample sweep of horizon, together
X PREFACE.
with her almost daily new-born cities and her busy factories,
we may well exclaim, " All hail, Columbia ! " Nor has all
been told : her religious appliances exceed and excel all ;
her sound, in this respect, has gone out into all the world ;
her hosts of evangelical ministers, her church accommodation,
her Sunday school agency, the activity, liberality and piety
of her lay agency, and her wide spread membership, and
though last, not least, her "star spangled banner of liberty,"
all, all may justify her in exclaiming, and never more so
than now —
" Freedom ! pure instructress of the mind,
Blest bond of union, birthright of mankind ;
Thine is the star, that from yon mountain height,]
Beams light and glory to the nation's sight ;
Thine is ibe voice, the talismanic charm,
That warms the patriot's breast, and nerves his arm."
The Author has now to state that his design in going to
America, was not to gratify a passion for the romance of
travel, nor any desire for notoriety, nor even for the enjoy-
ment of relaxation, however necessary that might have been,
after the hard contest with the human monsters at Granard ;
for whatever may have been his coniiicts or his toils in his
feeble efforts to promote the best interests of his native
land, yet he trusts his Epitaph will never be
" A youth of labour, but an age of ease."
His motive in crossing the broad Atlantic, was simply the love
of kindred, which, he trusts, was founded on love to Christ.
He had two brothers and many relatives in America, whom
he did not see for many years ; and the wish to see them, in
order to be in some measure useful to their spiritual interests,
pressed on his mind for a long time. At length the fitting
time appeared to turn up, and having obtained the cordial
PREFACE. XI
sanction of his ministerial brethren at the Dublin Confer-
ence of 186S, and the consent of his family, whose anxious
feelings for his safety are well expressed in the following
lines — (he started)—
"Sail on, nor fear to breast the sea,
Our hearts, our hopes, are all with thee,
Our hearts, our hopes, our prayers, our tears,
Our faith triumphant o'er our fears,
Are all with thee, are all with thee."
Having now had his wishes fully gratified, and having re-
turned in safety to his native land, he is induced at the in-
stance of some particuJar friends to record some of the events
which transpired during his visit. For this purpose he has
spared neither time nor trouble nor expense, to make the
Book as interesting as he possibly could ; and to those espe-
ciallj who look at both countries from a national and religious
stand-point, he believes it will be gratifying. The doctrine
of a particular providence will be recognized throughout the
whole, and his purpose to make all to bear upon the in-
terests and signs of the present times, will be steadily kept
in view. The limited character of the time at his com-
mand, will account for any apparent haste which may be
found in the style, and for which he has to claim the kind
indulgence of the reader. Above all, he hopes it will. be
promotive of personal piety ; and with those expectations
he prayerfully commits the work to Him who has said, " If
thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light."
; " Simple rule and safest guiding,
/ , , " Inward peace and inward light;
-;:-,;:-----,- Star upon our path abiding, -• r— — • '• — -r •■
■ ' Trust in God and do tlie rigli V "
..,...,..,-.,.„..-„. '"^''' W. G. C.
INTRODUCTORY OBSERVATIONS
PRINCIPALLY INTENDED FOE TOURISTS AND CABIN
PASSENGERS.
" Oara alone will ne'er prevail,
To reach the distant coast ;
The breath of heaven must swell the sail,
Or all our toll is lost."
^I^MERICA being now brought so near by transatlantic
^ffi^ steam power that a trip may be performed as quickly
•;^I«W? and as cheaply to the New World, as a Contintiufcal
tour used to be to English or Irish tourists. Liverpool is
the right starting point for either Canada or the States for
the English ; but if they prefer, they can go on board at
Queenstown for New York or at Londonderry for Quebec,
and indeed Dublin can nearly compete with either just now,
and the fare is more moderate. I would strongly recommend
the paddle steamers to the screw. I tried the latter. There
is an unpleasant jerk and a trembling sensation in the screw
which is not in the paddle. I hear that the Cunard " Scotia "
is the best, the steadiest and the swiftest. It is a little
dearer, but the best is bad enough, especially to bad sailors.
In some of tho Cunard steamers there is a second class
saloon cabin quite as good as some of the first cabins in
other steamers, and if any one preferred quietness, this
should claim a preference, and is only about half the price of
the first cabin, where often the religious element is at the lowest
discount, and perhaps repudiated altogether. Be sure to
secure your berth as near as possible to the middle of the
vessel — there is less of the pitching or plunging sensation,
and especially if the vessel be a screw, which often interferes
with sleep. After you land, I would say, be cautious as to
what hotel you go, or put up at; persons will in great
numbers importune ;iou to go to this and to that hotel.
INTRODUCTION. xiii
shouting all kind of perfections and preferences imaginable ;
always inquire of the steward, purser or captain, and you
are sure to be directed right. In regard to fares of steamers,
the Inman line charges are 15, 17 and 22 guineas. The dif-
ference arises from the circumstance of having a berth cabin
to yourself altogether, for which you pay the highest figure,
with one passenger the second charge ; and with three others
the fifteen guineas. The saloon, and board, and all other
accommodation, the same. Eeturn fares can be had for a
fare and a half for any reasonable length of time, which of
course would be a great saving. The Cunard fare is twenty-
six guineas. The Montreal Ocean Steamship Company's ships
land at Quebec in summer, but in Portload in winter, as the
St. Laurence is then blocked up with ice. The fares are nearly
equal to the Inman line. The Canada passengers from Ireland
generally go from either Dublin or Londonderry, and these
have steerage accommodation ; but I have given all instruc-
tion to such passengers and emigrants in Appendices A and
B. Tourists in preparing to travel through the country
should bring very little luggage — a good portmanteau and
a hat case will be quite sufficient. Give your trimk in
charge at the hotel until you return ! A sou-wester on the
voyage, and a soft hat for railway travelling will be neces-
sary. The changes of weather are sudden when they occur,
and when rain falls it is very heavy ; therefore bring a
Mackintosh. The railway ticket will be a long piece of paper,
with each intermediate station printed on it, so that the name
of each station to which you have travelled will be taken
off, and so on until the ticket is nii. The American rail car
or carriage is different from ours, except in Switzerland.
It is like a long saloon, with an aisle in the centre like an
old church, and with a double row of rich velvet cushioned
seats or. either side ; the backs are transversely fixed and
can be reversed to accomodate four persons, two on each side,
facing each other. Dr. Jobson, in his admirable work on
America, states, " The real relief to an Englishman in a
transatlantic railway car is, that he can stand upright with his
hat on, or walk to and fro for exeroise along the middle aisle."
There are no first, second, or third-class carriages as with us,
wd the fare is moderate. Formerly there was a negro car, but
XIV INTRODUCTION.
since the war, all colours sit promiscuously, justly proving
that,
" Wocilly locks nnd bltink ooiiiplexioii3
Ciiiniut (aud never should) ultor nature's clnim."
" It appears, also," says Dr. Jobson, " to be the usage that
an American lady (and I suppose any other lady) entering a
railway car, is entitled to any seat she may prefer that is not
occupied by one of her own sex ; and if she enters the car
with her husband or friend, she has only to intimate to any
gentleman on his seat, that she wishes to have it for her-
self or her companion, and it is immediately surrendered to
her." Some are inconvenienced by yielding, but oftener
more so, by not honouring the weaker sex. The Americana
are not so selfish as some people imagine, even when their
comforts are interfered with. 'Tis true they like to nurse
their legs a little bit even on cushioned seats, but no wonder
they would, for they go twice as fast, and do twice as much as
other people ; and they must rest some time or other, and
great allowances must be made for those little peculiarities.
The windows on the sides are made to rise or fall, and with
panels and Venetian blinds; there is also a large can of drink-
ing water, with a mug chained. Stove", are at either end,
which are sometimes overheated, and it requires a person to be
cautious in leaving suddenly in the winter. A train of these
large and ponderous cars, perhaps a dozen, is very formid-
able, and appear outtnde something like huge omnibuses, each
car holding about sixty persons. There are suitable closets
also, and there are saloons now, with all manner of accom-
modation for refreshments, as in hotels. Between each car
is a little platform for ingress and egress, and to step from
one car to another. The last car is generally the sleeping
one and is put on at intervals, unless one is ordered for an
invalid, which can be had all through. Vendors of all
kinds of fruit, especially apples, and vendors of the various
periodicals, come in at each station. The best season for
travelling is the autumn; the Indian summer is very
pleasant. It is the last farewell of the burning sun, and all
nature seems to rejoice in the more genial beams of that
glorious orb of day. The tourist and the stranger will meet
with kindness and attention from every respectable and well
educated American. They are truly kind-hearted and
INTRODUCTION. XV
obliging. Dickens speaks of the New Yorkers thus, " Thwe
are those in that city who would brighten to me the darkest
winter day that ever glimmered or ever went out in Lap-
land, and before whose presence even home grew dim. I never
thought the name of any place, so far away, and so lately
known, could ever associate itself in my mind with the crowd
of affectionate remembrances that now cluster about it,"
(and so says the Author.) " They and I," says he, " ex-
changed that painful word which mingles with our every
thought and deed, which haunts Qur cradle heads in in-
fancy, and closes up the vista of our lives in age." I
suppose he meant home, sweet home; (still there is a
higher claim which should attach itself to home, than any
earthly association or friendship can ever boast of); but this
does not take away from the high appreciation he had of the
friendship of the New Yorkers and of Americans in general.
Now let me bid the adventurous tourist a happy voyage and a
safe return in body, soul, and spirit ; but let him still remem-
ber " there's no place like home," however homely.
" This fond attachment to the well-known place,
Whence first we started into life's long race,
Maintains its hold with such unfailing sway,
We feel it— even in age, and at our latest day."
As yours will be sight seeing from first to last, you will
require to have pencil, pen and paper, and ink as weU, imder
constant requisition. As you leave your native shore, you
will likely see before you the white sail of the solitary vessel
on the distant wave, reminding one of a painted ship on a
painted ocean. You will now and again see the sea-gull
hovering around, and the porpoise as it rolls along. You will
flee the great and wide sea to remind you of your Maker's
strength, who stayeth its proud waves ; soon again diver-
sified shore features will come in view, with head-land,
beach, and harbour. Then after you land, procure the best
published guide you can get of New York, and see all that is
worth seeing, a-^d you will be well repaid. After this you
leave ; and now the richest specimens of nature and of art,
of ruins and land scenery lie before you, and burst now
and then upon your view. The noble Hudson with its pali-
sades, the majestic mountains with their towering cliffs,
the thundering Niagara, that greatest of natures wonders,
XVI INTRODUCTION.
■which defies description by pencil or by pen, an d of which
we might almost pay, " even angels tremble as they gaze,"
You will visit the verdant shores of the Ohio river, and the
lonely Shenandoah, and the wild Potamac ; while endless
forests and unbounded prairies will attract your visionary
wonders. There again, is the Palmetto, that tall and
slender tree; yonder is the royal eagle, the emblematic
bird of the Union, with his outstretched and hovering wing,
and watching for his prey. Here are flocks and herds
gambolling in the shade, or browzing in the sun. But let
,U8 remember that the earth yields its richest revenue of
delights to the believer in Christ. He alone can taste those
gifts with zest of highest joy. Neither ample research, cul-
tivated taste, or exquisite sensibility can compare with his.
Cowper describes the Christian thus:
'* He looks abroad into the varied field
Of nature, and though poor perhapi, compared
With those whose mansions glitter in his sight.
Calls the delightful scenery all his own.
His are the mountains, and the valleys his.
And the resplendent rivers ; his to enjoy,
With a propriety that none can feel.
But who, with filial confidence inspired,
Can lift to heaven an unpreaumptuous eye,
And smiling say, " My Father made them all."
Blackrock, Dublin, W. G. C.
December, 1870.
THE NEW WOELD,
ETC., ETC.
Chapter $.
Outward Voyaqe.
" While o'er those waters day by day,
We plough the deei) and speed our way ;
Do thou, (ireat God, our path attend
And be our Guardian, Guide, and Friend,"
Visits to friends previous to starting — Delayed on Board — Writes to
several parties — Death of Lord Castlemaine — Converses with an
Ex-Americau Planter — Berth Passengers, Preaching on the Sab-
bath — Presbyterian Minister — Controversy on the Divinity of Christ
—Steerage — Emigrants — Remarkable case of prodigality — Curiosi-
ties of Phrenology — Singular views of the stage -Second Sabbath
Services — Landing — Death and hopeful Conversion of one of the
Stewards of the vessel — Conversion of an Irish Nobleman — Custom
House — Poetry — Reflections on the Voyage.
IHUESDAY, October 29th, 1868, Queenstown Har-
bour, (1st Day) "City of Paris" Steam Ship, 3
o'clock, P.M. I am now on board: an event long
anticipated. The perils of the deep are now before
me, and should only be encountered by any individual at the
promptings of very urgent motives. The sailor does so for
remuneration, the invalid for restoration, the merchant for
gain, the adventurer for fortune, the scholar for knowledge,
the explorer for new countries, the statesman to govern them,
the soldier to win them, and the missionary to evangelize and
renovate them. My motives for now braving those foaming
billows and watery mountains have been already stated, and
2 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
fully satisfy my own mind. On last Saturday (24th inst.) I
bade farewell in Dublin to those dearest on earth, and came that
evening to Kilkenny, en route for Queenstown, wishing to
come by that line to see some old and valued friends before
leaving Ireland. I spent the Sabbath (25th) in that city,
held three or four services and was much encouraged ; but I
missed my old and valued friend W.Banks, Esq., having lately
removed to Kingstown, near Dublin ; his loss in Kilkenny is
greatly felt ; he ornamented the gospel here for many years.
The following is related of him — '' A respectable resident
in the City said to him one day, 'Mr. Banks, can you
tell me how is it that I never see you agitated under any
emergency, or unduly hurried like other men, and that you
can be so calm while others are all hurry and bustle ? '—
'Well Sir,' said Mr. B., 'If you see any thing at all com-
mendable in me, be sure to attribute it to my reading the
Bible.* " This was a better argument for Bible Christianity
with professor or profane, than a thousand Controversies ;
[here I may digress for a moment to say, that since my
return from America I met with a young lady from Kil-
kenny who informed me that it was on that very Sabbath
which I spent there, in passing, she found peace with God,
and still retains it ; fox which I praise God.] On Monday
the 26th, I came to Waterford for the purpose of seeing my
old friend Dr. Crook, and bidding him farewell ; I was just
in time that day to join him, and the venerable Mr. Brown,
(Independent) also the Presbyterian, Baptist and Primitive,
(Methodist) Ministers at their weekly Union Prayer Meeting,
but there was no Episcopalian Minister there ; I hope it will
not be always so. " Behold how good and how pleasant it
is for brethren to dwell together in unity," and as Dr. New-
ton once quaintly said, "and for Sisters too." As the
poet truly expresses it: — ^ .,
" flow good and how pleasant it is to behold ' *
The union of brethren who dwell in the Lord :
Like odours from ointment poured out on the head, . '
The fragrance of love, all around them are spread ,
- .,,.-,-.,,_, Like the dripping of njyrrh on the beard running down,
As the dewdrops that Zion and Hermon do crown,
When the Lord gave the blessing of life without end ; —
So sweet is the union of brother and friend."
I V7as commended to God in prater, and O how did thftt oldl
RRCRNT VISIT TO AMERICA. 3
Christian Minister and gentleman, Mr. Brown, plead for what
is now called "The Unification of all professed believers in
Christ ; " but, since then, he passed away to the skies. Dr.
Crook has written a very nice memorial of him. " lie was
faithful above many." 1 left Waterford in the afternoon,
and bore with me the fraternal greetings of Dr. Crook to
many of his friends in America ; I spent that night (Monday)
in Fermoy, where I preached to a very large and deeply
affected congregation ; many wept while I bade them farewell,
but none were more deeply affected than Mr. and Mrs. Ged-
des and especially their venerated parent Mrs. A. — my much
respected friend ; a genuine follower of the Lamb, and who
since then has also gone home to be for ever with the Lord.
Cork, Tuesday, 27th October, — I preached here this even-
ing, as my dear friend and Brother, the Rev. E. Best had all
due announcements made for me ; two young persons found
peace with God that night — one the son of a very worthy
and much respected friend ; the other a young soldier ; both
spoke to the great joy of all in the house, and I believe
of those in heaven as well! may they be "faithful unto death."
On yesterday (Wednesday, 28th) I came to Queenstown
and preached there that night, when another lad obtained an
assurance of God's love ; he is the son of pious parents. These
things led me to reflect thus: — "What, if I should never
return, or sink below the blue Atlantic wave, perhaps God
intends those young lads to occupy an important place in the
Church of God when I am gone." — [And now on my return,
I am greatly rejoiced to find those young men holding on
their way, like the young lady mentioned above. — " May they
all obtain the Crown of Life."] I also preached this morning
(29th) before I left shore, and then bade my friends there
farewell ; I also had a pleasing interview with Captain S.
Seymour the American Consul, I found him a very agreeable
and intelligent gentleman, I believe he interested the Captain
of the veseel in my behalf, we exchanged newly published
volumes — he lately published his " Kecent Travels through
the Holy Land," wluch he gave me with his name, as I dad
mine to him, called " The Apostle of Kerry." I was accom-
panied to the ship at 3 o'clock, P.M., by Rev. Messrs. Walker,
Patterson and Thompson, who Avarmly raid prayerfully,
again and again commended me to " the great Commander
4 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
of winds and waves; " it blow very fresh, and I found tho
vosaol had encountered a heavy gale on the night before, in
coniing from Livcriiool ; all were knocked up. The mails are
now delfiyed, nnd here we must wiiit until a lato hour to-
night ; royalty itself cannot command the storm, but it must
bow and yield to Majesty divine. In the mean time I am
writing to different parties, I also wrote out my General Mis-
sion Jotirnal for the last four montlis, which I sent with a
letter to the Rev. O. M'Outcheon. I also wrote a long letter to
Lord Castlemaine near Athlone, and sent him my book by post.
He was always very kind to me, and allowed me the privilege
of a free and familiar intercourse and correspondence. I ex-
pected to have had the pleasure of seeing his lordship on my
return, but I saw his friendly face no more ; for shortly after I
returned he died in London of three days illness. I hu.e good
hope in his lordship's death. I dwelt in my letter strongly on
the subject of the *' New Birth," and one on which we often
conversed before ; he manifested much concern about reli-
gion, especially after the death of Lady Castlemaine, an event
which deeply affected him ; they were not long separated.
Her Ladyship also was considered a genuine christian ; both
shewed me much favour, and on the day of the violent oppo-
sition to the street preaching in Athlone, his Lordship stood
nobly by me, and solemnly warned the persecutors, the
ring- leader of whom was a respectable lawyer. I wrote
a long letter to my dear wife and daughter at Blackrock,
Dublin, during our detention at Queenstown, as also to
several other friends, and despatched all, by the boat which
brought the mails. — At 11 o'clock p.m. the word of command
passed along, and soon the lifting gear of the anchor was set
to work, while the sailors intoned their usual ditty in mea-
sured style —
" Oome heave «w|i7, boys, we're oil bound to sea."
This done, the helm obeyed, and off we sped with great
rapidity, " Outward BoundJ'^
Now berths regulated, and all on the qui vive, to court if
possible the embraces of "tired Nature's sweet restorer, balmy
sleep" (which many were deprived of the night before), but
I fear it was all in vain. Wq had a ^ood many cabin pas-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 5
scngcrs and a vast numbor of omigranta as stconigo panscn-
gors, porliaps with crow, not loss than ono thousand — many
of these wore Irish, going to seek the homo, tho shelter atnl
the subsistence which tho land of thoir birth denied them,
and now most likely musing over thoir future destiny in u
far distant land, so pathetically expressed by Thomas Cuini)-
boU in his " Exile of Krin." Tho following is a spocimeu.
" Erin, my coantrjr, though sad and fomaken,
'n dreams I reviiilt thy sun buaton Hhore ;
Hut, alas l in a far foreign land I awaken,
And aiffh for the friends who can meet me no morf.
Whore ia my cabin door, fast bv the wild wood f
Sisters anil sire, did ye weop for Its fall?
Whore is the mother that loolcod on my childhood,
And where is the bosom friend, dearur tiian all T
Yet, all its sad recollections suppressing ;
One dying wiHh my lone boHom can draw,
Erin— an exile bequeaths thee his bluSHiUh,
Land of my forefathers, Erin-go-Drayli '— (Ireland for ever )
The sleeping cabin assigned to me had four berths, and, of
jourse, I had three cabin companions. In the lower one, just
pposite mine, I found there liy a Presbyterian minister from
he North of Ireland, and on his way to America to raise *• a
Histentation Fund " for his own poor congregation, as they
were likely soon to lose '* the Regium Donum." 1 thought
ihis was surely wisdom in its own generation, but not by
aking the bill and writing so and so (that was for others to
o), but by " taking time by the forelock." Nor do 1 think
e could adopt either of the excuses mentioned by the
toward in the Gospel, " to dig I am not able," for he was
ne of the stoutest young men on board ; nor could he say,
' to beg I am ashamed." I found him a very conversable
nd agreeable companion ; he was dreadfully sea sick, but
ortunately I had plenty of peppermint water, with which I
lied him, as I was supplied by my kind hostess, Mrs. Gin, of
Jueenstown ; and by the way, 1 may remark that no pas-
jnger should be without it. It was equally acceptable to
ur other two woe-begone companions overhead ! I was
enerally pretty calm, and able to attend to others. The
oung squire over our reverend friend, was from the county
ilkenny, who seemed to think Uiat an odd little oath could
him no very great harm ; still, however, he was very
vil and took counsel, and was near becoming " a Total
bstainer," which would be the best feather in his wing ;
6 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
Iio uIho found out tho socrot that tlioro wuh ii grout difl'cr-
QtiCQ hotvroon praying and saying prayers! I liopo lio miiy
keep to hirt vow. Tho young tnan ovor mo wuh from Mnn-
choster ; lu; got l.itely married, hut ho loft his wifo bohitul,
iis it iippcurH that bol >ro hiH marriage, ho phiyod the prodigal
feiirfully, and lie waa now going to tho New World to
beeomo a new man ! but I fear change of dimato will avail
little in changing character ; both of thoHo young men are
very agreeable, and sometimes we all prayed together ! I
found that my clerical friend was very high up in tho School
of Geneva ; but wc agrecil to differ. I wished to obtjiin a
view of tho ocean by moonlight — accordingly I went on
deck about 1? o'clock, p.m. on this first night. Tho scene
was awfully grand ; tho wind still blow right ahead, and
although ono could not call it a hurricane yet tho sea waa
very rough and raged fearfully — tho surges rose as if in
regal majesty, and as if obeying tho voice of tho Head
Commander mentioned in Psalm cvii. 27 — ** They reel to and
fro," &c.
"Roll on thou boundlesA ocean.
Roll on. thou Klorlou.s iiea,
Roll on with coosulesB motion.
The fetterless, the free."
I met a Virginian gentleman on deck (perhaps a quondam
planter), he said in the course of conversation, when he found
that I belonged to the ministerial order, " I am very glad
ycu are coming out, as I hope you will preach to those black
niggers, and induce them to work ; for we can't get them to
do anything now, they are worse than ever." I said, " there
may be (and likely will be) abuses, but very often those
abuses are only the natural results of greater evils, such as
long oppression," &c. It may be the rebounding of a bow
long bent, what Mr. Wesley called " the execrable sura of
all villanies," slavery, and especially " American slavery."
I returned to my berth, but found my friends still awake.
Dr. Dixon said in giving his prescriptions for sea sickness,
" Resolution does great things in seafaring life," but as fur
as I could judge neither resolution, good temper, or amia-
bility will soothe the agitation of a bilious stomach ; when
people now speak, it is generally with bated breath, but it
affords very little comfort to say that time and patience are
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 7
the boat hoalors. No doubt, if John Wesley wore consulted
ho would recommend, in luldition to everything cIho, Boniu
ingrediento of wlmt ho culled the old ** unfaahionublu medi-
cine," numoly prayer — it brings every blessing from above—
" It aeljei, aoothon, loftoni, tiibduoii jrct miiitAini,
<Jlvoi vigour to hopo, and i>ut« paaniuii In clialiis."
Friday^ 80</i October^ 1868. — This day one hundred years
Philip Embury dedicated his new church in John-street,
New York, the lirst ^'othodist Church said to bo ever
erected in the Now World ; tho ccnteniry celebration was to
be on lust Sabbath on a grand scale, in which some of the
greatest men of tho day were to take part ; (but more here-
after). Tho sun rose in splendour this morning above tlio
ocean horizon nnd sparkled on tho foaming billows still
rising mountains high and dashing their crested tops against
each other, and then disjjeraing into foam which sweeps far,
far away, beyond our view or into the depths of a receding
wave ; to-day I enlarged the sphere of my acquaintance
a little, road some, pondered on tho past, anticipated the
future, and found it good thus far away on tho ocean to
draw nigh to God, and I could sing —
" Lord of earth, and air and «ea,
Siiproino in power and grace ;
Under tliv protection, I
My Boul and body place."
October Z\st, Saturday {Zrd day) — We are already about
one thousand miles from Liverpool (4 days), this is marvel-
lous speed, and wind ahead all through, and in addition —
" Ocean into tempest tost."
I arranged with the Captain about tho Sabbath services for
to-morrow. Wo are to read the prayers conjointly, and I
am to preach. We had two Presbyterian ministers on
board, but they kept rather quiet.
Saturday Night, — Shaving on Sunday — A difficulty now
arose in my case as to how I could shave to-night as it was
my wont. I had not yet joined " the Unbarburized Club,"
but the vessel was heaving and going at great speed. I was
therefore in a fix, but still resolved to try, and as necessity
is the mother of invention, the following plan suggested
S THE NEW WORLt); OR,
itself — namely, to lie flat in my berth which I did, and
thereby commanded a pretty good equillibrium, and got
through marvellously. At all events I pacified the conscience
in this inafcrnce at loast, and perhaps I rested better that
night than I otherwise would do. Some will say that I was
too particular and too puritanical. Let it be so, but I
only wish I was more so.
" A Uttle while." 'Twill soon be pnst,
O let U3 in his footsteps haste.
Why should we shun the shame, the cross,
' Counting for him all else but loss.'
And let this thought our hearts beguile,
Our recompense will be His smile."
Sabbath^ November 1st (4</i day) — And first Sabbath at
sea ; I wa* up betimes and soon heard " boots " polishing
right away ; I said, Don't attempt to polish mine ; nor mine,
said my Presbyterian friend. We resolved on making a
complaint to the Captain, which I did, but he said " I have
no power to interfere." I said it was by no means a work
of necessity, for all could be done on Saturday night. He
granted it, but had no alternative unless we applied to the
Company, and Companies seldom have consciences ; then the
cry here and there was, " Steward, hot water," of course for
shaving. I was glad I was not among the number, for I
consider there is a more excellent way, and that is if it can be
done at all on the day previous. There might be such a
thing as a storm on Saturday, which might render it impos-
sible at sea, but laws were not made for exceptional cases.
1 remember the case was tried some years ago in the House
of Lords — a charge being brought against a barber for not
dhaving a gentleman on the Sabbath-day ; he appealed to the
House of Lords, and they ruled that " it was not a work
of necessity." As for my part I got too early a touch on the
Methodist wheel to trifle with conscience on such subjects !
And I can now say and with many others fully subscribe to
Watt's lines —
"A Sabbath well spent f
Brings a week of content ' '
• ' And health for the toils of to-morrow,
. . . ' . / But a Sabbath profaned,
""'"•"' ~ - Whate'er may be gained.
Is a certain forerunner of sorrow."
Celebration of the Centenary of John-street Church, New
RECENT Visit To AMERICA.
York. On this day-week, no doubt, a grand scene took place,
in old John-street Church, New York, by the celebration of
the hundredth anniversary of its erection, in which some of the
greatest men in the Methodist Episcopal Church of America
were to take part. The scene will be described in full in
another part of this work. How little did Philip Embury
imagine when crossing those same Atlantic waters 108 years
previously that his name would be handed down to posterity
with such eclat. Like another Abraham " he went out, not
knowing whither (or for what purpose) he went." In a far
higher sense than that of Columbus, he was on his way to
open up new worlds ; and the same may be said of Barbara
Ileck, who followed him six years after, for like Barak and
Deborah of old, they can never be separated in the history
of American Methodism. The motto on Christopher Wren's
Monument in St. Paul's, London, suits them well — " If you
want to see their monument, look around," — and how far !
not only to the circumference of the globe, but to the very
plains of immortality, and" Methodism raises no monuments
when it saves no souls," and thank God those monuments
were never more numerous (at least in America) than at
present — these will live when every other monument will
perish, " and leave not a wreck behind."
Sunday, 11 o'clock, a,m. — The Captain read the prayers,
I read the lessons and preached from Phil, iv, 19. " But my
God shall supply all your need," &c. I know the Lord sup-
plied mine, in granting me some good degree of freedom ;
and some came forward afterwards, and said, they would be
very much gratified if they could have an evening service,
but the weather was too rough; the passengers seemed
anxious to become more familiar, and we conversed more
freely than we did before. We had a heterogeneous company
indeed, of all classes and of all creeds, and a lot of comedians
of a high class type to boot ; we had Jews, principally from
Germany, Swedenborgians, Unitarians, Baptists, Presby-
terians, E})iscopalians, Methodists, Independents, Eoman
Catholics, Free- Thinkers, and plenty who seemed never to
think at all. It was a sweet day of rest to my own mind, a
blessed Sabbath.
O day, most calm, most bright,
The world were dark but for thy light, - - ~ - -- — i ■-; ^
Thy torch doth show the way." , /' ' .V 'A
.
xO THE NEW WORLD, OR*
Monday, 2nd Novemher, (5th day). — Waves still high,
passengers more regular at meals ; ample justice seems now
to be done to " the outward man," as if to make amends for
past omission, and this, notwi/^istanding the occasional agita-
ation and plunging of the noble vessel, plates upset, &c. —
Here 1 sat near a friend from Belfast, intelligent and very
agreeable, but a stranger to vital piety ; to-day we had a fine
opportunity of cultivating the highest ideas of the beautiful
and sublime, at least as far as sea and sky scenery is con-
cerned, and especially when standing on the quarter deck,
and casting the eye upon the broad expanse of ocean, whose
huge and mighty waves still dash with such gigantic force
against each other, and thus send the foaming spray far up
into the heavens, when like clouds they chase each other as
if flying for a prize. In fact those magnificent views can-
not be imagined by any but those who witness them, and
they are never beheld with greater zest, than by those who
can look up with Cowper and say with filial awe and unpre-
tending eye — " My Father made them all," or with another
poet, who could sing—
" Borne on tlio darkening wave in measured sweep we go,
Nor dread the unfatliomable grave that yawns below ;
For He is nigh who trod amid the foaming spray,
The billows owned the Incarnate God and died away.
Invisible to sight, but O to faiih how near,
Beneath the blackest clouds of night, thou beamest here,
Snatched from a darker deep, and wider waves of foam,
Thou Lord, the trusting soid will keep and waft it home,
//onie where no storms can rage, nor angry waters roar, - ,
■ .' Nor troubled billows /icaee around that peaceful shore." '
" What is a steam-boat crossing the Ocean ? " asks Dr.
Dixon, " but a machine instinct with artificial life majes-
tically riding above the storm despite of all opposition, a
vessel of 1,500 tons impelled across the ocean." Aye, 3,000
tons. I made the acquaintance to-day of a Methodist lady
fiom Cornwall, with whom I had a profitable conversation
on the subject of religion. I also met and obtained the
acquaintance of a Methodist gentleman from Boston but
of Irish extraction, now a real Yankee to the backbone ; he
would rule an empire, at least in talk. Some of the ladies
also spoke very freely on the Government and Presidency
of their country. " I guess,'' said one, " we shan't have
Grant.'* " I guess," said another, " we shall." While all thia
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. if
was going on, some were at the card table, othera plying
hard at Byron, others at Shakespeare, others Scott ; but few
if any with " the eternal word of truth" in hand. I don't
envy them their enjoyment ; and now especially, my prayer
would be —
" May this blest volume ever lie
Close to mine heart and near mine eye,
Till life's last hour my soul engage.
And be my chosen heritage."
Tuesday, 3rd November {Glh day). — Making rapid pro-
gress. I was very much pleased this morning to see our
two cabin berth young men devoutly on their knees " offer-
ing up prayer to God." I began to indulge hope concerning
them; they are very respectful, and look to me for advice.
I wrote away nee ly all day in the Purser's Cabin, as the
saloon was too full and not silent enough — besides I had an
opportunity of dropping a word in season when it was re-
quired. We are nearing Newfoundland, and the fogs are
on us. The " fog bell " is ringing away. I made the
acquaintance to-day of a brother of William Fayle, Esq., of
Parsonstown; he is well acquainted with America and a
very sensible, well-disposed man. We are now within 200
miles of Newfoundland, and crossing the banks.
Wedmsday, November Ath {'Ith day). — It appears this is
to be a great day in New York, being the Presidential
Election Day. We had furthei discussion on the eligibility
of the President. I visited parts of the steerage, and con-
versed with all kinds of folk of every clime and character !
It was, indeed, a motley group — Poles, Swedes, French,
Germans, Danes, English, Irish and Americans, &c., and aa
different in creed. I had to employ an interpreter — all
allowed me to speak, except some half drunken Irishmen !
Some of these cursed awfully, although I spoke to them in
Irish ; but the inveteracy of a Jew with whom I conversed
about Christ was still greater. I brought forward several
arguments, but all to no purpose ; he could not brook the
doctrine of the incarnation, and at the same time the equality
of his divine nature with the Eternal Father ; his language
was offensive, I might almost say blasphemous. In vain
did I tell him that I knew Jesus of Nazareth as my Saviour
for many years. He said I was deceived ; he did not even
say aa a respectable Jew in London said to me at one time,
l2 tne keW World; or,
when I told him that 1 believed in Christ as my Saviour,
" Well," said he, " if you think so, it is all the same ; it will
do as well." It appears that we had an augmentation to our
passenger's list last night ; but as to its paternity we might
as well look for the father of the Man in the Moon ; but
most likely the unfortunate mother is flying to hide her
own, as well as the guilt and fihame of some base deceiver's
crime. What secret wrongs, what untold cruelties will be
unfolded when " every work shall be brought into judgment
with every secret thing, whether it be good or evil ; " but who
will now rise up and avenge the wrongs of betrayed humanity,
and of injured virtue ; open robbery is innocent in com-
parison of a seducer's crime ; but sooner or later " his sin
will find him out.'* •
" Not rising sun that gilds the vernal morn,
Not the bright stars which night's blue arch adorn,
Shine witli such lustre as the tear that flows.
Down virtue's manly cheelt, for other's woei^ '
^ (^ttnt Conttobersg o« i\i^ Jibinilg of €^tist.
To-day a great controversy arose on the merits of Uni-
tarianism as contrasted with this glorious doctrine of Chris-
tianity — namely, " the Divinity of Christ." We had three
on either side. The two Presbyterian ministers joined me,
while a Unitarian minister, a Swedenborgian, and a Fret
Thinker took the other side ; the latter is the son of an
Episcopalian clergyman in London. The argument lasted
about two hoiu-s. The principal topic was the supreme
divinity of Christ; this was well sustained by proving " the
eternity of his sonship.'' I took Dean Baggot's argument
with Porter some years ago in Newry— namely, from Mel-
chizedec as a type of Christ, of Avhom it is said, " Without
father, without mother, without desce"" t, having neither
beginning of days, nor end of life, but made like unto the
Son of God (typically), abideth a priest continually." Thus
what Melchizedech was in type, Christ was in reality.
" Without father," Ac, that is, there was no genealogical re-
cord of Melchisedec's ancestry, in ordor to denote that Christ
was without father as to his human nature, without mother as
to his Divine nature — " without descent " — no account on re-
cord of his successors as to his regal and sacerdoual character ;
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I3
and to denote that Christ had no successor as to his kingly
and priestly office, " A priest for ever," " having neither
beginning of days nor end of life," both as it regards the
time of his bir'i, and of his death, no record ; in order to
denote perpetuity, no period to mark the time when he
assumed the priesthood or when he ceased to be so, as the
Jewish priests had, " from thirty years old and upward even
until 60 years old," Numb. iv. 3., " but made like unto the
Son of God," — that is what Melchizedech was made in type,
Christ is in reality, as to his divine sonship which is eternal,
unlimited, perpetual. The Presbyterian ministers sustained
me well, and the discussion ended more amicably than I
expected. It would take a little volume to record the argu-
ments on both sides ; but I fear it was lost labour as far as
conviction of error on either side was concerned ! however,
they made no attempt afterwards to renew the controversy.
No wonder Charles Wesley wrote thus on this subject —
" might the blood of sprinkling cry,
For those who spurn th sprinkled blood ;
Assert thy glorious deity
Stretch out thine arm, ..'lou Triune God.
Thy universal claim maintain,
And Lord of the creation reign."
Thursday, November 5th {8th day). — A remarkable day in
English history ; but how soon do we forget the right hand
of .the Most High ! The storm was great to-day, and rose
at night to a fearful tempest. I asked one of the officers what
he thought of it; he merely said, * I often saw it more vio-
lent.' I thought of the Psalmist's description of the Majesty
and power of God — "He commandeth and raiseth the
stormy wind," &c , and again " He holdeth the winds in his
fist." How well to be able to say, and sing, and feel —
" This awful God is ours,
Our Father and our love." • r " V '
Friday, November 6th, (Qth <far/.>— We are now going at
the amazing rate of about 300 miles in 24 hours; the officer
who watches the compass can tell not only the exact position
of toe vessel but also the exact number of miles of speed in
each hour. What a world of wonders has turned up in sea
farmg life, since poor Columbus crossed the Atlantic, now
near 400 years ago, and what may not yet take place.
Saturday, Novembin- 1th, {IQth day.)— W© are now within
14 . THE NEW WORLD : OR,
280 miles of New York ; the storm has abated a little ; we
are on the eve of another hallowed Sabbath, (the second). I
know I am remembered by those at home who have great
influence with " The Pilot of the Gallilean Lake." Thank
God, I can realize the truth of the following lines —
" When passing through the watery deep,
I ask in faith his promised aid,
The waves an awful distance keep ;
And shrink from my devoted liead ;
Fearless their violence I dare,
They cannot harm, for God is there."
I was enabled to barbarize to-night pretty well, although
the vessel was rather unsteady. *• Where there's a will
there is (generally) a way." In the course of the day I spoke
to some of the emigrants. I found the Irish language acted as
a key to some of their hearts, especially in a place where they
did not expect it; they said, " We never thought that a Pro-
testant minister could speak thus in our own language."
Many of these steerage passengers suffer much in cold wea-
ther, and often strong drink is resorted to as a remedy.
One man, who was more than half drunk, cursed by his Sa-
viour, for which a German reproved him ; but he received
for his kindness nothing but a volley of oaths in return. The
Germans, who understood a little English, listened to me with
great interest; and to others I spoke by an interpreter. They
were mostly Lutherans, but of the dissenting class from the
Established Church, like the Dissenters in England.
parfedlotts case of jprobigalitg.
I also conversed with the son of a late captain of one of
her Majesty's men-of-war, and who served in the Crimea;
he is also nephew to one of the greatest sea captains of the
line of battle ships now afloat ; but, alas ! this young man,
spiritually speaking, is a leper, and indeed in body he seems
little better : he is paralyzed nearly all over with rheuma-
tism, and yet a great blasphemer, a great drunkard, a card
player, and of all manner of gambling habits, a buffoon, and
a song singer. I pitied him greatly, and now and then fol-
lowed him to his cabin, and even ventured to pray with and
for him. He is sometimes unable to rise, and is scarcely
ever more irreverent than when in pain ; and yet, with all
this mass of evil, there was a something underlying which
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 1§
responded to the voice of sympathy : he said, " You are the
only gentleman on board." I suppose because I paid him
some attention. " The rest of them," said he, " don't care
Avhether I was dead or alive." In reference to his father's
death he said, " The old chap is gone ; I buried him a few
days ago ; ho was a good old fellow, he said his prayers and
died, and left me plenty of money." It appears that this
poor fellow was sent to sea when he was very young, and
was surrounded with the very worst kind of evil associations.
He gave himself over to all manner of wickedness, and is now
off to America, on (I fear) the last stride of prodigality and
vice I • At one time of his seafaring life he was one of a few
who were cast ashore, while about 400 others perished in the
wreck ! But all this had no effect. How truly may we ex-
claim, " What is man ? " " Can the Ethiopian change his
slcin or the leopard his spots ? then may ye also do good, that
""e accustomed to do evil." He, however, treated me at least
ith all manner of civility, and would strive to restrain him-
lelf in my presence from blasphemy. He was unfortunately
ssociated with the band of comedians on board, a superior
lass in their way, but as thoughtless as the wild ass's colt,
ever Solomon's description of the godless was true, it was
oubly so here, " Yea alfio, the heart of the sons of men is
11 of evil, and madness is in their heart while they live,
d after that they go to the dead." — Eccl. ix. 3.
Sfwonb Sabbat^ Scrbke--|pwsbglman Sf«nmr«.
Sabbath, Sth November, (11th day.) — Prepared for worship
the saloon. I engaged the two Presbyterian ministers to
^ist, as the captain committed this matter to me. The
)ctor of the vessel assisted me in reading the prayers, as the
|,ptain expected the pilot, and I got one of the Presbyterian
[inisters to read the two lessons. I persuaded the other to
peach ; his text was, " My beloved is mine, and I am his."
mg of Solomon, ii. 16. He introduced the subject by
ring that this relationship was not human but divine, and
it it implied, first, the relationship between the eternal
ither and the eternal Son ; and proved it by the address of
Father to the Son at his baptism, " This is my beloved
l6 THE NEW WORLD ; OR, '
Son,' &c. I believe he wanted to establish the Eternal Sonship
at a time when our Unitarian friends could not well oppose.
Secondly, he said, it may refer to Christ's love to the be-
liever ; as if he said, " My beloved (disciple) is mine, and I
am his (Saviour.) " Thirdly, it may be regarded as the be-
liever's love to Christ, as " My beloved (Saviour) is mine,
and I am his (property) " — by covenant, by purchase, and
by voluntary dedication. I thought there was a good deal of
ingenuity and clearness in the whole affair ; but certainly the
Genevan School was not forgotten now and then. Still I
was pleased with the earnestness in the application. The
saloon was filled ; the singing was admirable, and I concluded
with an extemporaneous prayer. Immediately after, there
was much excitement when it was announced that the Ame-
rican pilot was on board. I must confess I could not resist
the gratification of shaking hands with my Yankee friend, and
dropped a word or two on the kind Providence by which our
bark outrode the raging billows and the storm. I did indeed
thank my gracious God from the ground of my heart, or as
some would say, from my "heart of hearts." After dinner
" land a-head " was sounded out, and heard with great de-
light. The eyes were immediately strained to mark the out-
lines, and glasses were laid under pleasing contribution. I
think it was Sandy Hook we saw first. It is 18 miles from
the city, and towards night we saw the lighthouse on it. We
soon anchored. What pleasing sensations of safety pass over
the mind ! "J'he idea of the pilot being on board to watch
the shallows, the sand banks, and the shoals, to point out the
rocks and the reefs, and to avoid the whirlpools, the eddies,
and the narrows ; and now within sight of land. Here we
should reflect on the period when the spiritual voyager, imder
the direction of the Galilean Pilot, shall near the shore of
the heavenly Canaan, so well expressed thus —
With cheerful hope her eyes explore
Each landmark on the distant shore :
The tree of life, the pastures green,
The golden streets, the crystal stream ;
Again with joy she claps her wings,
And loud her lovely sonnet sings
Vain world, Adieit.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA.
17
Monday Morning (\2th day) — Nov. dtfi. — New York in
Bew ! — At early morn we began to move along (with Staten
Bland and Forthamilton on either side) the smooth and glassy
Ifater of the New York harbour ; one of the richest pieces
picturesque bay and land scenery in this wide world. We
)on cast anchor close to shore, and in view of the great
ihy, reminding one of Hebrews vi. 19., "Which hope we
we as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast, and
fhich entereth into that within the veil ; whither the Fore-
mner is for us entered ; " and reminding us also of the
Ijoining verse of the above stanza —
" As nearer still she draws to land.
How eagerly her powers expand,
With steady helm and well bent sail,
Her anchor drops within thp veil.
Exulting now she claps her wings,
And her triumphant anthem sings,
Glory to Ood."
$n |ris^ Itfobleman's (S>ovibttmn, sbonl l^e gtar 1815.
The repetition of those verses reminds me of the following
ery interesting anecdote. It appears that about the above
le, one of our former General Missionaries (Mr. A.) had
een over to England on some Church business ; and, on his
fetvum, h« found there was an Irish nobleman on board,
[he weather was delightful, the sea -"ery calm, and the sky
Bry clear. His Lordship asked if they could have some
lusic. Mr. A. who was close by, said, " Perhaps your
)rdship would have no objection to a little vocal music."
[is Lordship expressed his pleasure, when Mr. A., who had
most melodious voice, sang the hymn in connection with
lie above two stanzas. The first verse I'll introduce here —
" When for eternal worlds we steer,
When seas are calm and skies are clear ;
And faith, in lively exercise,
The distant hills of Canaan spies ;
And then for joy she claps her wings,
And loud her lovely anthem sings,
Vain world, adieu."
His Lordship was enraptured, and entreated Mr. A. to
ig it again. He did so, and it only heightened his Lord-
bip's delight, even beyond measure. He entered into fami-
conversation with the Missionary, who was a man of
ccellent address. His Lordship invited him to call at his
2
l8 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
rewdence at M . It is most likely he did so: Bome
time after this, his Lordship became alarmingly ill, and he
sent off at once for his old friend, Mr. A., who, although at
some considerable distance, was soon by his Lordship's bed
side : His Lordship said, " Mr. A., I am dying, the doctor!
hare given me up ; and what shall I do? I wish you to ex-
plain the ' New Birth,' as recorded in the 3rd chapter of
St. John's Gospel." Mr. A. did so. "Well," said hi«
Lordship, " if that be the nature of it, I was never bom
again ; and I am dying, what shall I do? " Mr. A., of
course, failed not to make the way of salvation very plain,
and went to prayer; and, while so engaged, his Lordship
exclaimed, " I feel happy, and am not afraid to die." Ima-
gination must aid us here. What must have been the feel-
ings of Mr. A. and of those who could rejoice in his Lord-
ship's joy. From that time he began to recover, and was
restored, to the comfort of his family and the joy of all who
knew him. His life was at once remodelled, " old things were
done away, and all things became new." It is even said that
he and his family now walked to Church, rather than break
the Sabbath by driving in their carriage. The neighbourhood
and his tenantry, and, no doubt, the nobility also soon felt the
wonderful effects. Mr. A. of course became a great favourite
with his Lordship; and was, at all times, welcome to the
castle. Both are now gone to the spirit land ; where there
are no earthly distinctions ; where royal crowns and coro-
nets are laid at the feet of Jesus, and exchanged for those
which are eternal and will never fade. Both will bless God
for the day they ever met, when crossing the Irish Channel.
His Lordship could now truly sing the following lines—
<• Let the world their virtue boast,
Their works of righteousness :
1, a wretch, undone and lost,
Ajn freely saved by grace
Other titles I disclaim ;
This, only this, is all my plea,
I the chief of sinners am.
But Jesus died for me."
I mentioned the above to Lord Oastlemaine ; and oh, with
what delight did his son, the Honourable R. Handcocl (»
truly Christian gentleman) meet me in Dublin since my re-
turn, and said, " I read with great pleasure your letters to
my dear father." How necessary " to be instant in season
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. ig
Bnd out of season." It also reminds me of Lord Molesworth,
whoso conversion the Rev. James Lynch used to tell us of, and
which took place in India; and of Lord Bloomfield, of whom
Dr. G. Scott writes so touchingly in his little book, called,
A Coronet laid ai the feet of Jesus." And of how many
more, the day will declare it But wo see
" Tig not in titleH, weRlth. or rank,
To make ui truly blest."
€^t Sfetalre— ParbtUooft 0itb8.
I was no little astonished and indeed no little grieved by
conversation I had with the mother of a young lady, who,
appears, joined the comedian band on board, in London,
Lnd came out with them 1 The mother accompanied the
laughter, and appeared respectable. She told me that she
Vas the widow of a London clergyman, that she had several
ps and daughters, and all were provided for, and that this
|rl was her youngest daughter, and that she was very
ligioua; had taught in a Sabbath School ; that she herself
is very religious also, that she gave subscriptions to the
lissions, and that her minister regularly visited her and her
^ildren, and was very fond of them, &c. "And how was
I said, " that your daughter could enter on such a life
[the stage? " " Oh well, you know," she replied, " that we
have our own tastes and views; and she just *ook a fancy
I this mode of life, and it appeared to be her providential
[y.'' " Well," said I; " it must be a very dangerous ex-
|:iment, and one, I fear, that Providence would rather pro-
?it than sanction." •' Well, you know,'* she said again,
re all have our trials, and we must submit, and bear them
iently." *' But," said I, " surely you would not like your
jghter to die in such an employment, as that of the stage."
well you know," said she, " God knows everything, and
en we are where He would have us to be, I think it is all
same in whatever situation of life we are placed." I was
rally amazed, to see how far the mind can be persuaded
jthe performance of things not only questionable, buD,
lally contrary to the whole genius and spirit of Christi-
|;y, which requires us to " Come out from among the un-
jly." I pitied the dear young creature from my very
rt, young (19 years), handsome^ unsophisticated^ and
\>h. I said to myself, alas for such mothers, and ten
40 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
thousand timea alas for such daughters I I warned ard en-
treated ; but I fear it was to little purpose.
I read, while in America, of the death of a young actress
who seemed tc me to have had all the marks of this very
young lady. How often is it verified, ** The simple pass on
and are punished." It was very remarkable that the cap-
tain asked me one day after dinner, '* Why I would not go to
the theatre." Several of the theatricals were present, and
among the number was this young person, of which I was not
aware. " Well," I said, " I'll give u very quaint, but simple
reason, which a pious man once gave to a person who pressed
him to go to the theatre, * No,' said he, ' I will not go,' ' And
why ?' said the other. ♦ Now,' said he, * there is one reason
widi many others. Suppose I did go, and died there, and
when I went to the gates of glory,! was asked, " Well, brother,
where are you coming from? " Now, would I not be ashamed
to say that I was coming from a playhouse to glory.'"
When I met the captain afterwards, he said to me, " That
answer you gave about the play-house, cut very deep. The
young lady that was present," said he, "was one of the
parly." I said, " I did not know her ; but if it suited, per-
liaps it might be a word in season." I also found that the
captain himself was soft, and wanted a word, by the way.
The following conversation was nearly as surprising, but
not quite so alarming, as the above. It was with a yotmg
man, one of the stewards of the vessel. His antecedents
bore all the marks of the marvellous. It appeaia that early
in life he was cast upon the world, can scarcely remember
his parents; went to sea when young, and was once cast
away in a wreck on a distant shore ; and at another time
had nearly lost his life, by a wave of the sea, which rolled
over the vessel, and rolled him, by its tremendous power,
into a boiler of scalding water, by which he was nearly par-
boiled. He was in the Crimean war ; stood hard engage-
ments, had his skull fractured, and now fills this arduous
stewardship. He regards himself with great complacency,
as the child of fate and fortune, because he had his head
examined in New York by a phrenologist, for which he
|)aid a dollar, lie Qbtait^ed inarms fpr no }ess than lOQ
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. if
remarkable developmonta. The last wore, " That ho was
one of the fiivourod few, superior to misfortune ; that he
was Attached to life, dreads death, hut craves immortality.'*
It is very remarkable that lie seemed to have gotten no bad
developments in the whole lot. I thought surely this was
Bufhcient to turn the man's brains, if he had any ; or left
him brainless altogether. It reminds me of the following
conversational anecdote, which I read while in America,
between a Quaker and an infidel.—
An infidel, who was arguing with a venerable shrewd
Quaker on the merits of Christianity, said " I'll never believe
anything but what I have either seen myself or heard of
from one who did see it, and in whos« word I can believe.
I deny everything else." " Friend," said the Quaker, " Were
you ever in London or Paris ? " " No,'* said he, •' I was
not." " Do you believe there are such places? " " Yes," said
he, '♦ I do." " Why," said his Quaker friend, " I thought
you would never believe in anything but what you saw.'*
" Yes,'' said he, " but I have a friend that did see them,
and I believe him.'' «* So then you will believe nothing but
what yourself or some other person saw ?" " No," said he, " I
will not." " Friend," said the Quaker, " Dost thou believe
that thou hast any brains? " " Yes, I do," said the infidel !
" Didst thou ever see them 7 " " No," said he. " Did any one
else ever see them?" "No," said he. "Then, I suppose
thou hast none, as neither thyself nor any one else ever saw
them 1 " The fool was answered according to his own folly,
or according to the Psalmist, " he made a pit and fell into
it himself ;" he was completely confounded ; how dangerous
it is to lean on our own understanding ; " Pride goeth before
destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall."
After getting my trunks examined on the Custom House
Wharf, and just as I was leaving the outer gate, a Custom
House officer tapped me on the shoulder, and asked me to
take a chair for a few minutes in an office close by. He
soon returned, and asked me as to my ministerial position.
I said, " I am a Methodist preacher from Ireland." " That
will do, sir," said he, " excuse me for delaying you." It is
likely he went to the Captain and asked him as to my pro»
22 . THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
fession, and having heard that I was " a Methodist parson,"
all was right ; it is likely my white tie confirmed the Cap-
tain's statement, but I really do not wonder at persons being
suspected for conveying goods about their persons, and I
was pretty formidable looking, being well lined with flannels.
But, it is said, that many have absolutely secreted goods in
this felonious way from the old country to a very great
extent, and some have been detected with great money's
worth on their persons, so that it requires the officers to be
very particular. I have also heard of ladies (if they can be
called such) secreting in the seams and folds of their under-
dresses large quantities of silks. This I consider an abomi-
nation.
Here I must record a most painfully tragic, and, I regret
to say, fatal occurrence, but intermingled with mercy, which
took place after we left the steamer to-day, and in connection
with her being brought into dock. On my return in the
evening to inquire after two missing boxes of mine, and on
my entrance on the vessel, which was now in dock, I found
that one of the steerage stewards was mortally wounded a
few hours before by the wheel which lifts the anchor. He
was lying in the little ship hospital, but it was not my
phrenological friend. I inquired as to his religious profes-
sion ; and, when I found that he was a Protestant, at once
I proposed prayer, to which he nodded assent. He appeared
very weak with the loss of blood, and in much pain. I had
great liberty in praying for him, and he appeared to be very
anxious. I heard chat when he was struck by the wheel,
and found himself mortally wounded, that he manifested
the most intense alarm about his going into eternity, and
unpreparer'/^o meet God. His cries for mercy were most
piercing, and continued so, while he had any strength ; I
scarcely ever felt eternity so near, and the Lord gave me
great nearness to Himself in prayer ; and indeed I felt as if
God had both heard and answered, at least aa far as his
soul's interest was concerned. He disd next day in the
City Hospital ; I called, but he was gone ; and I trust gone
to Abraham's bosom, the Paradise of God. Of him we may
truly say, " Is not this a brand plucked from the burning? "
How mysterious the whole affair ; my going to America,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 23
at this time ; the missing boxes, &c. Some would attribute
it all to chance ; but we will adopt the sentiment of the
poet, and say —
" God moves In a mysterious way,
His wonders to perform ;
He plants his footsteps on the sea.
And rides upon the storm.'
(Emigrants.
The steerage passengers were taken off to Castle Crarden,
where their luggage is examined ; and where every attention
is now paid to the emigrants, a great improvement on former
times. They are also provided for during a certain time,
if necessary to stay. The buildings include a money ex-
change office, baggage and express offices, sheds and stables,
medical rooms, waiting rooms, information offices, &c.
There is a large shelter for emigrants in inclement weather,
where they may remain while their baggage is being ar-
nnged and examined, and their future settled. There is a
commission formed in New York for the purpose of aiding
needy emigrants, &c. During the last year (1869) 66,000
emigrants came from Ireland, 100,000 from Germany, and
41,000 from England, making about the third of a million 1
The Commissioners are bound to report annually to the
Legislature of the State of New York. They have founded
depots, where emigrants can work, and live pro tern.,
but no pay. The chief of these is Ward's Island, in extent
about 240 acres ; this provides for from 1,200 to 3,000
emigrants. There are hospitals, nurseries, schools, a church,
an asylum, a dispensary, a barrack ; workshops, stables, and
all kinds of places necessary to the abode of men and beasts.
There were 11,000 persons admitted last year ; 5,000 had
to go to hospital, and the remainder took refuge until pro-
vided for. It will be pleasing for emigrants to know this
care of the Commissioners for the poor stranger, and that
there is help for them in time of need ! But better still if
they can appropriate the following lines : —
" I will never, never leave thee, ; ^.. ,;:.■-
I will never thee forsake ; , i ,•
I will guard and save and keep thee,
For my name and mercy's sake.
Fear no evil, fear no evil,
Only all my counsel take ;
For I'll never, never leave thee,
I will never thee forsake."
For more information on the above subject, see Appendiji.
24 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
llefltctions on t^e l^ogage.
Fir^ Day in New York. — Now safely landed and safely
housed in New York, thank God ! and in reviewing the scenes
of the last twelve days, I must " stand still and see the sal-
vation of God." We came on board with wind and storm
ahead, which scarcely ever abated until we came in sight of
land. Whaf" an emblem of the trials of life, and of the
conflicts of probation. By the good hand of our God upon
us, we had, on the whole, an admirable passage for speed
and safety ; and may well sing with Peter Bohler—>
" Thine arm hath safely brought us,
A way no more expected,
Than when thy sheep passed through the deep
By crystal walls protected. I
Thy glory was our rereward ;
Thine hand our lives did cover,
And we, even we, have passed the sea.
And marched triumphant over."
I now feel all the pleasurable sensations of safety, although
I had no fear all through ; but, what will the sensation be,
when safely moored in the port of eternal bliss, " when the
voyage of life's at an end, and the mortal affliction is past,"
I could almost cry aloud, " Hosanna to the Son of David,"
and raise an Ebenezer stone ! Jesus is precious ; a Triune
God is gracious, and hallowed fellowship constitutes a heaven
on earth. I trust I will love Him more, and fear and serve
Him better than ever ; I found it good all through to read
the Bible daily, and to cultivate the spirit of watchfulness
and prayer, and nothing but constant power from on high
will enable one to do this. I was much pleased also on
reading Captain Seymour's " Tour through the Holy Land."
Perhaps rarely could there be found in one vessel, sudi a
great diversity of human character, of all shades of opinion,
both on political, religious and scientific subjects ; and we
had various professions in life as well. We had on board
the Yankee tourist, returning from his European trip ; the
plodding merchant, almost like Atlas with a world of care
on his shoulders ; the politician, and the diplomatist, with
their thousand and one remedies for the amelioration of down-
trodden humanity, to let the oppressed go free, to redress
their grievances, to alleviate their woes, and to remove
all abuses in Church and State ; for these purposes, some
RECENt VISIT TO AMERICA. ij
would apply the anodyne and the elixir of universal freedom ;
others the stimulant of despotic rule ; and others,
"All the pomp and glorious circumstance of war."
But few appeared to appreciate that old-fashioned, sovereign
Bible panacea, " Righteousness exalteth a nation, while sin
is a reproach to any people." I was sorry to find so much
levity and thoughtlessness on sacred subjects ; for one would
imagine that when the uncertainties of life are so great as
they are on sea, every passenger especially would be as
serious as the grave. The contrary was the rule ; and even
intemperance prevailed to a considerable extent. It was
said that one gentleman's bill for stimulants alone came to
£30 ; I found it difficult to propose the more excellent way
except by example ; I did, however, speak when opportunitj^
offered. Some of us sang hymns occasionally ; and as often
did others smg the unmeaning or the flippant song; whUe
others enjoyed themselves in what they called innocent games,
and, while others told foolish stories, mingled with
"The loud laugh, which spoke the vacant mind."
And yet on the Sabbath morning, perhaps, all would appear
as devout as saints. They reminded me of what is said of
JiUius Caesar, who ordered Christ to be numbered with the
gods of Rome, and that aU should be equally worshipped :
or hke the Syrians of old, "who feared the Lord, and yet
served theur own gods." I had some very pleasing opportu-
nities of conversing with many on the subject of vital re-
ligion, and concerning whom I have good hope; and whom
I expect to meet in the " better land," and in a brighter
dime ! Some dear friends met me at the Custom House.
or rather at the place of landing, and took me home to their
hospitable dweUing ; some of these were old friends, whom I
tormerly knew in Ireland, and with whom I formerly cor-
responded for years on the best of all subjects, that of
hohness. This is the great theme and the great power
ot the American churches; and " without it none (either in
ijurope or America or in any other part of the universe)
SrT -? ^""'^'L ^""^ ^^<^^"gh "i* o^ly blossoms in
celestial air." yet millions on earth can already sing, who
have by faith ascended Zion's hill— / e. "
" The men of grace have found
Glory begun below ;
Celestial fruit on earthly gro-ind.
From faith and hope may grow."
26 THE NEW world; OR,
Chapter $if,
imi «ImK's loutnal in fefa iorh, msUe, 4-t.
"If so poor a worm as I
' May to thy great glory live,
All my actions sanctify.
AH my words and thoughts receive:
Claim me for thy service, claim
All I have and all I am."
Second Day in New York— Bishop Janes— Bishop Morris-Missionary
Committee— Dr. ElUott, his Death— Francis Armstrong, his Death
—Rev. Mr. De Pay— Letter Home— Bishop Kingsley's Death-
Bishop Thompson's Death— Dr. M'Clintock's Death— St. Paul's
Methodist Church— Ministerial Reception— Persecution in the
Southern Statas-Hotel— Black Servants— Old Friends from Ire-
land— Dr. Harris— 37th Street Church— Missionary Addresses—
Diploma— Sunday School Banner— Names of Classes- Forthamil-
ton — Marauder — Speeches— Bishop Kingsley-Death— Sunday
School— Powerful Element.
TUESDAY, Kou. lOf/i, 1868, (2nd Day in New Torh).
I called at the City Hospital to inquire for the stew-
«^.« ard of the vessel, who was mortally wounded yester-
day, and the first word I heard from the gate keeper was, " He
died last night." I felt as if I had delivered my soul, and I
have hope in his death. His name was Bennett, and from
Liverpool where his wife and family reside. Alas ! what
painful news it must have been to them. I hope they may
also hear about the hope there was in his death. I called
on Bishop Janes at his own house, which is not "a palace,
but a very plain dwelling. Here I met the venerable
Bishop Morris, who, with the other bishops, had just come
to the city, to attend the Missionary Committee for the
distribution of the Missionary money for the ensuing year.
I presented some of my letters of introduction to Bishop
Janes, especially the one from the Eev. W. Arthur, A.M.
It might be regarded as a letter dimissory. It ran somewhat
thus—" To the Bishops, Elders, Heads of CoUeges and
Ministers of all Denominations in America, greeting, &c.
I have the pleasure of introducing the bearer, who goes
with the leave of his Conference to visit his friends and the
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. ^7
churches in America. His presence will justify the recoff.
mtion of tiie Rev. W. G. Campbell, &c._I am/yours, wS.
Arthur." I had also letters from the English President,
the Eev. R. Hall ; the ex-President, the Rev. John Bedford ;
the Rev. Messrs Tobias, M'Kay, M'MuUen, Dr. Scott and
many others Both bishops hailed me at once as a brother
mmiater, and after the usual inquiries about the Irish
Brethren espsciahy Dr. Scott, Mr. Arthur, and Mr. ReiUy,
&c., Bishop Janes said, "Brother Campbell, would you
allow me to publish for you to preach on next Lord's Day ? "
I said, "Yes, if you do not exceed three or four times."
He smiled, as if a bishop would scarcely go that far ! It
18 said, however, that Newman Hall, of London, frequently
preached four times m the day during his recent visit I
^STT* ,?v!'^°? ^^""'^ '' °°^ ^°^>' i° t^e service, but
St U hale, although 75 years of age! I inquired for Dr.
Elliott, whom Bishop Janes had seen a few days before, and
nearly a thousand miles away west, he was then only recover-
ing from paralysis A few months after this he passed
away o the better land, to meet his sainted fathers in^e
<.ospel, the Rev. Ed. Hazleton and the Rev. Geo. Burrowes
who travelled the Donegal Mission in Ireland, where he was
converted to God many years ago. Bishop Janes also Tn-
TfCVT'^'^ll '^' ^^'^T'^y Distribution Committee "
on the Friday following. I then called on Mr. Francis
Armstxong from Ireland, to whom I had a line of introduc-
tion from T. Cronhelm, Esq, of DubUn, and who was I
beheve, instrumental in his conversion in Skerries. I p^'ed
an agreeable hour with him. He has since passed aC to
the spirit land: he fell in one of the streets of New York
when going one evening to meet his class ; but the lamp w2
rJ. l'™'"'/; ^^1 ^'' ^'^^' burning, and sudden deaK
him was sudden glory. I saw him a few months before on
t^eeveof my leaving New York, and his last wordsr^^:
rfter'fhif uJ'^^"' ^" ''"^^*- He lived for three months
after this, althougn apparently then near the shore.
" Soul beloved, adieu, adieu •
Thine the bliss, but mine' the pail
Hero we die to live anew ;
Now we part to meet again.'
"dCI^t'^r city."" " ™'^ '^' '""■" '" ^ "™"S« '«H
2^ THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
Wednesday J 11th November.— To-day I called on our Irish
friend and much respected brother, Mr. John Elliott,
banker. He received me with great cordiality. It was
unnecessary to present a very kind letter of introduction
from our mutual friend, Dr. Scott ; he invited me at once
to the rights of hospitality. We conversed about all our
Irish affairs, and especially about the doings of " the New
York Irish Advisary Committee," who came forward so nobly
andofEeredto supply what the American Conference had
withdrawn the year before from " the Irish General Mission."
I called on the editors of the Christian Advocate, Dr. Corry
and the Rev. Mr. De Puy, D.D,, who is also the pastor of
Old John-street Church. I was much pleased with them.
Mr. De Puy is of French extraction ; and at once he had
me advertised to preach in Philip Embury's Church, John-
street, on the following Sabbath evening ; I was previously
engaged by Bishop Janes to take Dr. Harris's Church in
the morning. He is son-in-law to the bishop. He was
converted from Judaism in Montreal many years ago, and
has been a faithful minister of Christ, and very popular.
How wonderful are the ways of the Lord.
The following is an extract from my first letter, written
to Europe after I arrived. " [ have seen sights enough to
convince me of the greatness of this city ; the buildings are
marvellous, and " Broadway " is (it is to be feared) too
much so in nature as well as in name. If they had called
it "ionflfwai/'' it would be far more appropriate, for it is
almost endless. It is illusory, and like a fairy scene ; the
weather fine, so that all things seem to favour ; surely God
counts the hairs. How kind and fatherly to anticipate sudb
turning points. What motives have we to love, and fear,
and follow Him faithfully and fully."
Thursday, lith Nov. 1868—1 spent part of this day at
Fort Hamilton (about ten miles from the city), with a very
well ofE nephew of Mrs. C.'s, and his amiable wife and three
daught«rs. They are in great agitation just now, as a moat
daring robbery was attempted in the neighbourhood, a few
nights before, resulting in tragic circumstances. The rob-
ber concealed himself on the roof of a gentleman's house,
close by, and was waiting for midnight, to plimder. There
concealed, the gentleman found him in the evening ; and in
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. ^^
attempting to lay hold on him, the marauder drew a pistol,
and shot the gentleman in the mouth. He is now lying in
a most precarious state ; and since then the whole Fort was
well nigh being blown up, by a fire which broke out close
by the powder magazine. But when the fire was just rag-
ing at the door, the wind most providentially turned, and
kept off the flames; otherwise every house within miles,
would have been shattered. But life and property were
thus, by what we may well call a hair-breadth escape, re-
deemed. How insecure are all things earthly ; how dan-
gerous to expect to derive all our happiness from them.
Keal happiness is not there. No wonder the immortal
Young would admonish thus —
" Lean not on earth ; a broken reed at best, bnt oft a apear
On whose sharp point peace bleeds, and hope expires."
The visit appeared timely, and all appeared grateful for
the protecting arm and watchful eye of the Most High. I
trust the events will be sanctified. We had a good time
at family devotion. On my return from the city, with my
kind niece, who accompanied me, I was struck with the
illuminated splendour of Broadway. Varied forms of flam-
ing gas jets burned brilliantly before hotels and theatres. I
thought again of the appellation, " Broadway."
Friday, ISth Nov — Visited the " Missionary Distribution
Conunittee,'' at Mulberry- street, to-day, at which all the
Bishops (nine) are expected to attend, and representatives
from all the Conferences. There were eight bishops present,
Bishop Baker was absent from illness. I was introduced by
Bishop Janes, as Gideon Ouseley's successor, from Ireland,
that I had proper credentials to visit America. The meet-
ing received me standing up, I suppose to show respect for
the Irish Conference. I was requested to take my seat
among the Bishops. And who would not consider it an
honour to sit among such a body of men ? No state, no
pomp, no parade ; and, as to dress, no particular mark of
distinction, true Scriptural bishops, not a distinct ordery but
an office^ primus inter pares, first, or chief among equals ;
their superiority arising from the greatness of their labour^
their good sense, general knowledge, and deep piety. The
extent of territory assigned to each, for Episcopal limits,
is beyond all conception; and perhaps from home, not
30 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
less than nine months in the year. I was charmed with their
mode of debate. Every man seemed to be perfectly at
home, and every man kneW how far to go, and when
to stop ; and that was just when he was done.
Igis^op J^ingsUg's Sptec^—Jeat^, &t.
On this day, Friday 13th, Bishop Kingsley, who lately
returned from Germany and other parts of Europe, where
the Methodist Episcopal Church have established missions,
(and which he visited in his capacity of bishop, to preside
at the Annual Conferences,) gave us a most amusing and
graphic description of the very plain domestic and social
habits of some classes of society in Germany, especially
those in agricultural life. With these difficulties their mis-
sionaries had to contend. He said, " Their habits were so
plain, that he felt at a loss for suitable terms to describe
them." I thought the contrast with some of our plainest
specimens of Irish cabin life would rather raise us in the
scale of civilization and decency. To have horses, and cows,
and pigs, and fowl, and ploughs and harness, and all, in one
long apartment with the family ; and that, at meal times,
without a partition, and sleeping as well, astonished me.
Sometimes the family is overhead. But here let me say,
" Alas, for the brevity of human existence." How little
did this dear man, or his brethren, who were listening
with such interest, imagine that in little more than a
year after this, he would have joined the Church trium-
phant. The following was published at a subsequent period,
to my visit to New York: — "Bishop Kingsley is now off
again, and intends to visit the other three continents,
India, Africa, and Europe, and to preside at all the Con-
ferences." The one at Lucknow, of which our Irish brother.
Dr. Butler, was the father, must be very interesting to the
Bishop, especially to meet several preachers, who escaped the
horrors of " The Indian Mutiny and massacre.'* No doubt we
shall soon have an account of his travels, almost round the
world ; and for a far higher motive than that even of How-
ard, whose mission of humanity was called, "A Circumnavi-
gation of Charity," but which after all was confined to the
charity of the body, while that of Kingsley was " The charity
of the soul, which is the soul of charity," to be instru-
mental in conferring on mankind a liberty infinitely superior
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 3X
even to that of which his own country boivsts ; a liberty of
which the poet speaks thus —
„ ^ , . " Thiit liberty unsung
By poets, and by senators unpraiaed,
which monarchs cannot grant, nor all the i. ow 918
Of earth and hell confederate take away •_
A liberty, which persecution, fraud,
Oppression, prisons, have no power to bind."
How little did the writer know, when the foregoing an-
nouncement was made, that his last communication from
China was on its way, and very likely his last on earth. It
was written to the Boston Zion Herald, and dated, Foo Choo,
China, Nov. 22, 1869. The Toronto Guardian also inserts it.
The Editor says, " In a recent letter to Zion Herald, Bishop
Kingsley gives an inside view of Chinese Methodism, which
is full of interest and encouragement for the whole Church."
The Bishop states, " Having now gone through my visitation
to the Chinese Missions, I propose to give your readers a
little insight into the workings of Methodism in China. I
rejoice to believe that we have in this great empire, the
broad and deep foundation for a glorious work in the fu-
*"^®r* ^°^^ already giving bright promise of a speedy tri-
umph." The Bishop then goes on to describe the Confer-
ence, and gives an account of a case of discipline, and a
specimen of the devotional powers of one of the native
Ministers.
The following is the case of discipline, which was exercised
at the Conference on a preacher for not having gone to his
Circuit after his appointment the year before. His name is
La Cha Mi. There were three native ministers appointed
as a committee on the case, and their finding is as follows
(m part) : « We, three men of the Committee, carefully ex-
amining, feel that the case is like that of (John) Mark's re-
pentance and reformation ; therefore we intercede for him
with the Church, asking that you will exercise the heart of
Barnabas to forgive him ; and we hope that he will imitate
Mark m not forgetting Barnabas's commendation of him and
will even become useful to Paul. Amen." This was signed
thus-." In the yejir of the incarnation of Jesus, 1869 ; " then
the three names follow— Sia Sekong, Li Yu Mi, Hu Yong Mi
thus reports. The acquaintance with Scripture is striking •
see Acts xiii, and 1 Tim. iv. U. The bishop also gives a
32 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
sample, by translation, of the last prayer offered up in Con-
ference, November 22nd, 1869, by a native minister of the
name of Sia Sekong, perhaps one of the above—'* We give
great thanks to Thee, God, our heavenly Father, the ever-
lasting Jehovah, for what we, the lowest and most sinful of
men, have seen in these our days. Great grace has been
given us. We give thanks imto Thee, God, that the Holy
Spirit has come down upon us. Now we ask that He may
go with us to our work. Lord, pity us. The Bishop leaves
us, and we go east, west, north and south. Help us day and
night to pray. Help us not to be lazy. Help us before or
behind men to follow our consciences. Help us not to aspire
to be good-looking — to make a nice appearance, but to be
true, to be faithful, to watch the sheep in every place. If
one or two of us must leave the world before we meet again,
we don't know : God knows. Help us to bear the crosses,
even unto death, that we may glorify God in all our lives.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ abide with us. Thus
our hearts desire." The bishop states, " This brother, Sia
Sekong, is a scholarly man, and one of the sweetest spirited
men I ever became acquainted with. He moves in an atmos-
phere of holy love." How little did the Bishop think when
hearing that prayer, and when writing the above, (and which
Bcarcely arrived in Boston until he was gone), that he himself
was to be one of the very first called away. The Boston
Herald, to which the Bishop communicated the above, says,
*' We hope that all who thus see what God has wrought, will
be more than ever devoted to the support of foreign missions.
TheFoo Choo Methodist Episcopal Church Mission has now
50 ministerial-student helpers, and 1400 members." I have
just read that the Board has resolved on sending out six ad-
ditional Missionaries forthwith to China.
Here we must again pause and exclaim, "What isour life?"
" It is even as a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and
then vanisheth away." Was this ever more afifectingly seen
than in the sudden removal of the energetic, enterprising, and
devoted Bishop Kingsley? He literally took flight from
the earthly to the heavenly Canaan. He died at Beyrout,
in Syria, on the 6th of April, 1 87 0, and that suddenly. Like
another Moses, he appeared to get the message, " Go, get
thee up and die." He was coming from China and India to
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 55
attend the Irish and English Conferences, and to bear to them
the fraternal greetings of his brethren in America. One
writes thus on his sudden death, — selected from a long and
appropriate poem —
" KiiiBsley is gone ; fallen like a leaf
Smitten by ono rude blast, ore broath
Of Hwlft decay had waniud of death.
Just fell upon Mount Lebanon,
Then passed earth's horizon, and shone
For evermore upon God's throne. "
IIow mysterious ! but we must not " judge the Lord by feeble
sense." After hearing him on that day in Mulberry-street
on German life, I dined with him, Bishop Ames, Bishop
Thompson, and Dr. A. Stephens, author of "American Me-
thodism," at Mr. John Iiilliott's. Since then our amiable
hostess (Mrs. Elliott) crossed the flood ! and our truly worthy
Bishop Thompson followed soon after, and just a little before
Bishop Kingsley. All were the cheerful guests of Mr. and
Mrs. Elliott on that day. Mrs. E. died in August, 1869,
very shortly after I left New York. Bishop Thompson died
suddenly, March 22nd, 1870, and Bishop Kingsley as above
(6th April, 1870) ; and now another honoured and much-
lamented name is to be added to the triumphant host it is
that of the immortal Dr. M'Clintock, who soared aloft to the
mount above on the 4th of March, 1870. His last words
were, " Yes, it will be all right, all right, all right." <' These
all died in faith," and are now " for ever with the Lord."
They fell on the high places of our Zion.
" All great. Oh may we heed each lesson given,
And seek, like them, to lead the vrorld to heaven.'
I remember Bishop Thompson stating that he advocated
the claims of Ireland at the General Conference of 1864
in Philadelphia on three principles, interest, duty, grati-
ttide. The result was that 5,000 dollars were granted
that year for " the Irish General Mission," and he was truly
grieved that it was not annually continued. He was an
Englishman by birth ; his was a noble spirit, and he seemed
very much attached to me, as I was to him. After dinner
we repaired to the reception ceremony of the Rev. Mr. Kut-
ledge, who had just come as the new minister to Saint Paul's
Methodist Episcopal Church. Here I met the elite of the
laity of this church and of some of our other churches in
3
34 Tiin Nuw world; or,
the city, and also sonio foreigners, to nearly all of whom I
was introduced. '• The Groat National Missionary Conven-
tion for the conversion of the world " was to be held in a
few days, and this brought many distinguished visitors to
the city, especially of the clerical order. I was struck at
the absence of display among both sexes ; and their mode
of recognition, when introduced, was equally simple, but
very expressive, such as, '* I am most happy to meet you, and
to have the pleasure of making your acquaintance." The
reception room, which is connected with the church, holds
700 people. The bishops and their wives mingled in the
throng, but attracted no particuhu: attention or notice more
than others ; all seemed to be quite at home and easy of
access. There was an abundant sujtply of unstimulating
refreshments.
Saturday, Nov. 14th — Attended the meeting of Directors
again to-day. I was much affectedatthe mournful description
which Bishop Janes gave us of some of the Southern State
churches ; the persecution of many of our coloured people
was terrible, and of some of our ministers also. Some of
them were literally shot down like dogs, for their Republican
principles, and all by slavery despondents. One young
minister was cruelly tortured to death, because he would not
promise to give up his principles. First they broke his legs,
he refused still ; then they hung him up, he refused still ;
then they despatched him. He now wears a martyr's crown.
I was paid all manner of kind attention at lunch time, or
what we would call a dinner, at the hotel. Dr. Durban, the
Treasurer of Missions, was moat attentive. We had hotel
cards handed to us by Dr. Harris, the Secretary of the
Mission Board. There were from 40 to 60 waiters, all of
colour, in the hotel, and very smart and aMentive. I
thought still of the prediction of Noah, notwithstanding
their emancipation — •' And Canaan shall be his servant,"
tliat is Japheth's, of whom Americans and Europeans are
said to be the descendants; but some say that the term
" his servant " refers to their becoming the servants of the
Most High. Dr. Durban, speaking of Mr. Arthur, said to
me at dinner — "he is a man of illimitable resources." I
passed the evening with Mr. and Mrs. Dawson and family
(Trish). 1 knew them twenty years ago on the Tullamore Cir-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 55
cuit, and lodged with them ; thoy are well-to-do ; aho is niece
to the venerable and Rev. Thomas Meredith, now of Sandy-
mount, Dublin, and sister to the Rev. Mr. Meredith, pastor
(and popular minister) of a church in Now Jersey, and of
whose conversion I bcliovo I was an eye-witness in Ireland
many years c^o. She retains all the vigour of her early
piety, and a class leader still.
Sabbath, I5th Nov. — According to arrangements with
Bishop Janes I repaired to Norfolk-street Church, and had
a crowded house, and some hearty shouts, such as •' Glory,
Hallelujah, Amen," &c. At all events, as Mr. Punshon
said, '* It shows that they are in earnest." It is said that
the Rev. Mr. Thornton did not enjoy the shouting churches,
but neither of them would act the part another minister did.
A friend told me he saw a Methodist put out of a church
belonging to another body, by order of the minister, for
shouting '♦ Glory y The friend said to me, *' I'll never go to
hear that minister again, although I am a member of his
church." 1 would recommend that minister to read the
12th chapter of Isaiah, and lay emphasis on the last verse,
'* Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion,^^ &c. I must
confess I like a hearty "Amen" now and again to sound
through a church. It was both solemn and devout in Mr.
Harris's church to-day, and he was very attentive tome, and
pressed me strongly to visit them again. In the afternoon
I repaired to 37th Street Church, of which the Rev. Mr.
M'Alister is the minister (Irish), in company with my friend
Mr. A. Fowler. Here I preached ** the monthly Missionary
sermon " to the children of the Sunday school, after which
one of the officers of the school came forward, and moved a
vote of thanks for my address, and proposed that I should
become " a Life Member of the American Sunday School
Missionary Society." The motion was seconded in a moment
by another officer, and then put to the meeting and carried
unanimously. After this it was very interesting to me to
hear each class called out by some familiar name and well
understood, such as " Busy Bee Class," " Lttle Gleaner,"
"WiUing Hands and Willing Hearts." "Wesley Boys,"
"Excelsior," &c. The children then came forward and
handed in their monthly contributions, perhaps from three
to 20 dollars. The child who collects the largest amount
36 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
secures the Sunday school banner for the month — a long
handle, with a beautiful flag floating therefrom, and with
several spangled devices. The child is placed at the corner
of the seat, and the flagstaff stands close by. I obtained a
splendid certificate of membership, which it appears under
other circumstances should be paid for. Here I may remark
that the Sunday school element commands one of the
greatest powers in the American churches, and does wonders
in a financial point of view. And no wonder, when the
last estimate stands thus : six million scholars and one
million of teachers ! This includes all the churches, north
and south. Here I would remark that 1 met no Sabbath
school in England, Ireland or Scotland, in which the American
custom prevails of calling the classes by certain familiar
names, until I came to Belfast, since my return ; and only at
" Falls Road " Sunday School in that town. The names
are as numerous and as well understood as they are in New
York. I give the names, both of the male and female classes,
as they are used in the Falls-road School, Belfast. Perhaps
some other schools would follow the example. Boys : —
Watchmen, Gospel Soldiers, Treasure Seekers, Witnesses,
Diligent Seekers, Good Samaritans, Minute Men, Crusaders,
Workers, Volunteers, Onward, Pioneers, Band of Hope,
and the Infant Class, " Lambs of the Flock." The female
classes are : — Daughters of Hope, Lovers of Truth, Daughters
of Zion, Golden Links, Golden Chains, Builders, Sowers,
Reapers, Gleaners, Pearl Gatherers, Olive Branches, Peace
Makers, Try, Try Again, Early Seekers, Early Days, Doers
of the Word, Disciples, Little Singers. I was much amused
and pleased to see with what promptitude and regularity each
class responds when leaving the school. If we could intro-
duce the financial missionary element, even for the Irish
General Mission, and send out now a large missionary band
through the length and breadth of the lan^l, what an influence
would it command. May the Lord hasten it in his time,
according to his holy will ! It is amazing the number of
missionaries sent out in America by this means, and the
numbers of churches built every year. There is a crisis,
and a solemn one, in our country just now (1870), and the
Church of Christ should lay hold of every godly agency to
meet it.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 37
Sabbath Evening^ November 15<A, John-street Church. — I
was accompanied to this church this evening by the pastor,
the Rev. Mr. De Puy ; he brought Philip Embury's family
Bible with him, in order that I might have the satisfaction
of preaching out of that time-honoured treasure, now 257
years old. The circumstances by which it was obtained
will be hereafter related. I preached from Phil. iii. 8, in
part. The congregation was very large, and after I preached
I invited mourners forward, and one young man, the mate
of a vessel iust come into port, came forward under the
greatest excitement possible. His distress was poignant;
his cry was a loud and long-continued wail, and his tears
might be called a flood. We were all considerably afEected ;
yet few, if any, left the church. We had several praying
men to sympathize with him, both lay and clerical. He
remained for a full hour in that hopeless anguish ; at length
" Mercy to his •'escue flew,
And he was born of God."
Our joy was very great ; he returned to his vessel " quiet
and in his right mind." Altogether the scene was very
marvellous. After the meeting a highly respectable gentle-
man and lady came forward to me, and said, " Sir, we have
been so blessed at this meeting that we now offer ourselves
as members of the Methodist Church. We have been long
connected with the Protestant or Church of England body,
but from this night we resolve that this people shall be our
people." It was indeed strange, my coming just at this
time, the seafaring gentleman coming into port about the
same time, the ministers who assisted from Cincinatti just
then in the city, &c.
I don't think I can do better than give, in the next chapter,
a sketch of the Centenary Anniversary of the opening of
Old John-street Church (the very spot on which we worship-
ped to-night), which took place here three weeks ago, and an
event in which I should have been delighted to participate ;
for, interesting and thrilling as was the " Great National
Celebration of 1866," this of a local character must have been
specially gratifyin'
^g-
38 THE NEW WORI.DJ OR,
Chapter M5.
Ctntenarg ^tUhmiion of |o^n-et«tt C^nw^, |fefe gojh.
" See how great a flame aspires,
Kindled by a spark of grace ; s
Jesu's love the nations fires,
Sets the kingdoms on a blaze.
When he first the work begun,
Small and feeble was his day ;
Now the word doth swiftly run,
Now it wins its widening way.
Saw ye not the cloud arise.
Little as a human hand ?
Now it spreads along the skies,
Hangs o'er all the thirsty land."
Celebration of the Hundredth Anniversary of John-street Church, New
York — Love Feast — Kemarkable Hymn by a Blind Christian Fe-
male — Document read — Bishop Janes's Sarmon — Abel Stephens's
Address — President Roberts's Remarks — Rev. John Callen's Ob-
servations — Do. Dr. Reed — Philip Embury's Old Bible — Evening
Exercises — Sermon by Dr. Peck — Number of Names of Pastors of
John-street during the Century — Interesting Remarks.
NOVEMBER 1 5th (Sabbath)— On this day three weeks
(25th October, 1868) the above celebration began.
I^l<^ It commenced at 9 o'clock, a.m., with a Love Feast,
which was conducted by the Presiding Elder of the Dis-
trict, the Rev. H. P. Pease. It was a time of great power.
Several rose to speak at the same time, and the house was
crowded ! The two nephews of Philip Embury, Augustus
and Philip, were present ; and also Jonathan P. Heck, great
grandson of Barbara Heck. There was one old member present,
who was only six months old when the first church was built
in 1768 I he is now 100 years and six nionths! He came
from England, and met in class with John Wesley, and is
now 70 years connected with the John-street Church. The
Love Feast over, Bishop Janes was the preacher in the
morning. It is worth recording that the first hymn sung
was composed for the occasion by Fanny Crosby, the blind
poetess; her husband is also blind, and both have been
so from their birth ; they are members of the John-street
Church. I will here introduce the hj mn, which is a very
remarkable production, and worthy of immortal record —
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 39
'• Thou Sovereign Lord of earth and sea,
Once more we consecrate to thee
This hallowed structure ; time reveres
This temple of a hundred years.
The Church whose mighty columns stand,
Encircling now our favoured lar.d.
Within the.se ancient walls can trace
Her birth, her infant cradling place.
Again her natal day returns,
A heavenly flame transcendent burns ;
And with the light of glory cheers,
Her temple of a hundred years.
Come, Sovereign Ruler, gracious Lord,
And here anew thy name record ;
"Where kindred souls from every climo
Have met to sing thy praise sublime.
He with us through these sacred hours ;
Let gi,\ce descend in copious showers ;
And niHv our sweet reunion prove
An ant»>-past of joys above."
Before the sermon, the pastor read a historic statement of
the Church. The following is an extract : " The first
Methodist Meeting was held in New York in 1766, in
Philip Embury's own private dwelling, in what is now called
Park Place ; then, three months after this, a rented room
was taken, and this became too small ; then a rigging loft
was rented in Horse and Cart Lane, It was 60 feet by 18 ;
this became too small, and in March, 1768, this lot on which
we now stand in John-street, was purchased for £600, and
on the 30th of this month (Oct. 1768), next Friday one
hundred years ago, the first church was opened. It cost
£733. It was remodelled and enlarged in 1817, at a cost of
about £5,000, and again in 1841, which stood until now,
when an outlay of about £500 has presented it before us
to-day in this beautiful aspect. The original church had
galleries, but ladders had to supply the place of stairs. The
devoted lay pastor wrought the carpenter work with his own
hands, being, like his Lord and Master, a carpenter by trade.
He had a worthy helper in Barbara, whose noble efforts were
literally to edification. She was to all intents the architect
of the structure. Philip made everything according to the
pattern which she had daguerreotyped on her mind, while at
prayer, just like another Moses, who built the tabernacle
according to the pattern showed to him on the Mount ; so
he built according as she instructed him, believing her to be
divinely directed. The luxury of sleeping in the house of
40 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
God was not at that time appreciated, hence the seats had
no backs, and the galleries had no frontage to lean on,
for fear of affording facilities for that purpose. For a
full hundred years the worship of God has continued at
these altars; from this pulpit his word has been pro-
claimed, and from this table the holy sacraments have been
dispensed. We all congratulate each other on the history
of American Methodism. All our hearts go out in earnest
glowing thanksgiving to Him, 'Our Father,' from whom
alone, ' cometh every good and perfect gift.'"
^is^op |an£s's Sitrmon.
Bishop Janes was now introduced, and proceeded to de-
liver a sermon, of which the following is a brief sketch.
He gave out for his text, Psalm xxvi. 6, 7, 8, " I will wash
my hands in innocency, so will I compass thine altars,
Lord," &c. He began by stating, that Philip Embury said
on the occasion of dedicating the first church here, *' That
the best form of consecrating a place for such uses was to
preach in it a good sermon." Philip's text was, Hosea x. 12,
" Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy," &c.
or, as Philip's Bible has it, " reap after the measure of
mercy" (the measure of God's mercy.) There is a variation
in my text also, " That I may publish, declare^ &c., and
tell, set forth. First, the preparation for spiritual worship
and service, " I will wash my hands in innocency." This
was a ceremony among the Jews and the ancients, by which
they declared their innocence of any accusation. Pilate did
so. But the text has a more spiritual import. It means
that we purge ourselves from all filthiness and sinfulness,
from all iniquity and wrong, that we may approach unto
God. " If we regard iniquity in our hearts, he will not hear
our prayers." He requires truth in the inward parts. He
requires to be worshipped " in spirit and in truth," with re-
verence and godly fear ; and there is a " Fountain for this
purpose for sin and uncleanness." Secondly, the worship ;
" So will I compass thine altars, Lord." There is a refer-
ence to the former practice of laying the sacrifice on the
altar, and the priest presenting it, and interceding. We
have the altar of the atonement. We have Christ as the
Great High Priest, &c. " So will I compass," so will I wor-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 4I
ship my God, offer my religious devotion, my spiritual ser-
vices. Thirdly, the active service in the proclamation of
thanksgiving, " Set forth, or tell " all thy wondrous works,
to spread it, to profess, to declare it. " Come unto me,"
said David, "and I will declare what the Lord hath done
for my soul." Class meetings and Love Feasts greatly aid
in this hallowed work. Thank God, for this element of
spiritual power in the Methodist church. Methodism is not
a failure. It is not a failure to me. I feel to-day I am
saved. I »m in fellowship with God. I have a title to
heaven; and if Methodism progresses as it has done for
another half century it will evangelize the race. Let us all
to-day renew our covenant with God afresh, and " Wash
our hands and hearts in innocency," &c., and so compass this
altar (this sacred spot) round about. We admit that God is
everywhere ; but in his temple he reveals his gracious pre-
sence/ how rapturous, hallowed and divine. We claim that
some hallowed spots have a peculiar interest, especially where
God performs his wondrous works. The place of the Sa-
viour's birth, where he died, where he was buried, and from
Mhich he ascended, have all their peculiar interests, and
without any superstitious adoration ; but the fact that Jesus
was there for the purposes of my salvation, and the salvation
of mankind, hallows, sanctifies and glorifies those places.
When God is nigh, the place is holy ground. I have a very
grateful remembrance of the very spot in the public street
where I was awakened, and the spot in a country school-
house wherfl I was converted. And it seems to me that next to
Calvary, there can be few places of deeper interest to us than
this very spot in which we are assembled to-day. Was not
Philip Embury's text a prophecy concerning this place ? Did
he not say, " Break up the fallow ground," " Seek God,
and he will rain down upon you righteousness." And O
how extensive has been that rain; a literal history of this
church, as though the word was spoken to-day. Then also
the text which that venerable man, Dr. Bangs, selected at
^e second dedication in 1818, '< The Lord hath done great
things for us, whereof we are glad," Psalm cxxvi. 3. Yes
bod had done great things for them up to that time, mar-
vellous doings, and marvellous trophies of divine grace.
And then at the third dedication, in 1844, the text which
42 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
Bishop Kedding selected was peculiarly expressive and pre-
dictive as well,—" For from you sounded out the word of
the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in
every place your faith to God- ward is spread abroad, so that we
need not speak any thing."— 1 Thes. i. 8. There is no part
of the United States, no portion of oiu: own territories, there
is no part of Europe, even the most exclusive Catholic
countries, which have not some kno-vledge of American
Methodism. Why, to-day John-street Church is as widely
known as St. Peter's at Rome. And since this third dedi-
cation by Bishop Hedding, until now, what wonders of grace
have been repeated, not only here, and in this city and
throughout the land, but on our foreign missions also. In
New York one hundred years ago, we had about 20 mem-
bers gathered in two years, which would be only one to
about every thousand of the inhabitants, then 20,000. Now
we have one to every 74. But there is a holier and happier
place than this, and let us all see to it, that after we have
served our generation, by the will of God; we shall all enter
that upper temple, where we shall worship night and day,
and go no more out for ever. We would add —
"Stand up for Jesus always,
In every walk of life ;
For he who bids thee conquer,
Is with thee in the strife."
^bbttss of Jr. gibcl Stipfecns.
At two o'clock p.m. Dr. Abel Stephens delivered an
eloquent address. This was called " the Reunion Service."
He took for his motto " The Best of all is God is with us."
He said " that Methodism was identified with the two lead-
ing races from which the mass of the American population
was to be formed, the Teutonic and the Irish. The little
band of Methodists who began our cause here were from
Ireland, but they were, nevertheless, Germans from the
Palatinate on the Rhine. Thus the great Germanic race,
from which our original or colonial element (the Anglo-
Saxon) was chiefly derived, is still peopling this country,
and they planted American Methodism in John-street ; but
they were providentially directed through Ireland, whence
they brought the precious seed now yielding this magnificent
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 43
harvest. They kindled our tent fires and altars with the
lioly flame they brought from Ireland, to which they were
driven from the old Germanic Palatinate by the French
Papal arms in the reign of Queen Anne of England.
English Methodism found them in Ireland as exiles, thus,
like the banyan tree, its offshoots seem designed to wave
their banners round the world. Let us afresh from this,
our first battle-field, on this the himdredth anniversary which
none ever saw before, and can never see again, gird on
anew our well-tried armour, and shout our march forward
to the ends of the earth and to the end of time. Our Church
is militant, and like an army in the field, it must stand by
its orders, spiritual life, spiritual work^ spiritual unity. With
these it will prevail till the heavens " flee away."
Ex-President Roberts, of the Republic of Liberia, and now
President of the College at Manrovia, Africa, spoke next.
A few extracts will suffice. " For more than forty years I
have been a member of the Methodist Church, and am glad
of the opportunity of expressing my feelings of Methodism ;
and on this hallowed spot where the pioneers of Methodism
erected the first temple dedicated to the worship of Almighty
God, according to the ordinances of our Church ! It is now
like a green bay tree, and under the branches of which
more than two million of souls are pressing their way to the
portals of immortality ; from this it has crossed the Atlantic
again and again ; and in Africa many are bowing at the
same sacred altar with you, confessing Christ and worship-
ping God in spirit and in truth. The Pagans of that land
are realizing the blessing of Christianity, and 'Ethiopia
is still stretching out her hands unto God.' Christianity is
no failure, either here or there."
A few observations from the Rev. John Callen, of Brook-
lyn followed. " The Methodists of the West look to John-
street as the Roman Catholics look to the Vatican and to
the Pope ; but in a very different sense. Every Methodist
heart is warmed when we speak of John -street as the cradle
of Methodism. When I was in Pittsburgh I saw thousands
44 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
of labouring men sauntering about on the Lord's Day ; they
work in the furnaces. My heart was stirred. I wisji God
had placed my lot among them. We have about 6,000
local preachers."
^r. J- ^<eb, an ®lb |B8iot of |o^n-strnt.
" Being here so long (since nine o'clock a.m.) and with
only a short intermission, and with my condition of health,
it is with extreme reluctance I occupy a moment. It is
now over fifty -five years since God converted me, and fifty-
three since I began to travel. In 1819 I went to Lower
Canada, a wild country, sparsely (thinly) settled, terrible
roads, hard fare and plenty of work. There 1 foimd this
precious book (showing the old copy of Embury's Bible)
which I obtained in the following way : I stayed one night
with a Mr. Embury, not knowing that he had any connec-
tion with old Philip ; he brought me a Bible to lead the
family devotions ; it was in a very dilapidated condition,
ready to drop to pieces. When I looked at its title page,
there I found in fair handwriting, "Philip Embury."
" Brother Embury," said I, "Was Philip Embury any
relation to you ? " " Why yes, he was my father, and I
am his oldest son." Said I, " Give me the history of this
Bible." He said, " My father brought it with him from
L-eland in 1760, and it was the only copy of the Scriptures
he had in the family till the day of his death, and took it to
the pulpit and preached, as you heard, from " Sow to your-
selves in righteousness, reap in mercy," &c. Hosea x. 12.
In tbis edition (printed 1611 in German text) it is, "reap
after the measure of mercy," " The measure of God's mercy."
This is worthy of note. All this the son confirmed by
saying, " In the division of his personal effects, I being his
eldest son, the Bible feU to my lot." "Well," said I,
" would you be willing to part with it ? " " Why, yes, for
the price of another good copy of the Bible." So I gave
him the amoimt, and now it is in my possession for 49
years. I prize it above all price ; and if the Bible ought
to belong to any one but myself it is to John-street." The
Bible was prociured from this good brother, and accordingly
it is DOW in John-street : and after it was neatly bound, it
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 45
was brought to tho chapel, as I stilted, for my use on this
Sabbath, 15th November. Tho Doctor concluded by
saying, *' In my own experience and observation I say that
the Methodist Church in this country never stood higher in
spiritual power than it does this day. I believe this with
all my heart. God bless you all, and bring you at last to
the home of Wesley and Embury, and thousands of others
who had gone before them."
(Bbening (Swrdsts— Jr. itch's ^bbrtsg.
At seven o'clock p.m. the audience reassumbled, when Dr.
Peck of Albany, New York, preached from Acts v. 24,
" They doubted of them whereunto this would grow." He
made it bear on the supernatural power of Gospel truth ;
and, as it was said by prejudiced men at first, so it has
been ever since ; and looking at that handful of poor people
gathered a hundred years ago on an "old rigging loft,"
may we not fancy the cry of prejudice saying, '' To what
will this grow ? " At that time we had one local preacher,
now 18,000 heralds of the cross, between local and travel-
hng. Then we had a few hundred pounds invested in this
church property, now 41 million of dollars invested in 12,000
houses (now, 1870, 48 miUions). Then, no press or papers,
now 147,000 copies of weekly periodicals. Then, no Sunday
schools, now millions of children ; and more than 24,000 in
academies, seminaries and colleges. Then, no missions, now
the banner of the cross is unfurled in South America,
Europe, Asia and Africa, supported at a million dollars
yearly ; and now the Centenary offerings about a million
and a quarter of British pounds sterling. We only see our
units of millions, our descendants will see the tens and hun-
dreds of millions. We see our altars crowded with peni-
tents, and our Sacramental hosts on earth marching to the
conquest of a world ; but beyond the river, amid the blood-
washed throng, we must look to our labours and our toiL
To this it will grow, and why, because it is supernatural I
Away with those fable writings, blasted liberal unions, *
truth- defying and heaven-daring insolence ! All combined
are merely naturalistic and human, and must fly as chaff
before the wind ! while God's religion, his vital Church,
46 THE NEW WORLb ; OR,
must flourish, because " the giites of hell shall not prevail
against it." But let lis beware of pride; keep in the dust,
and thus prepare for the two grand triumphs of the ransomed
millions of our glorious God and Saviour, first spiritually
on earth, and then to shine as the sun in the kingdom of
our Father for ever." It appears there were 300 pastors
appointed to John-street during the last hundred years. In
early times they were often changed, and sometimes there
were as many as five appointed together, making John-street
the central church. The list is preserved ; it begins with
Philip Embury and ends with the llev. Mr. De Puy, its
present highly esteemed pastor. It must have been altogether
a glorious day. There were no less than fifty ministers
present ; it was in every sense of the word a double Jubilee,
and will never be forgotten by those who had the high privi-
lege of witnessing it. The Church now bids fair for another
start to run its bi-centenary career, at least if we could judge
by the present prospocts. One is reminded by the whcilc
scene, of the days of Nehemi.ih and Ezra, who said to the
people, on almost a similar occasion, — *' For this day is holy
unto our Lord, neither be ye sorry, for the joy of the Lord
is your strength ; and there was very great gladness." —
Nehemiah viii. 10-18. "But what will it be to be there,"
" where every shining front displays the unutterable name."
»
" Yea, when we rise in love renewed,
Our souls resemble Thee,
An image of the Triune (Jod
To all eternity."
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 4^
€f)tipUt KF,
Poral ||»ot0— Cenotnpljs, etc.
"Thene are tliov that bore the cross,
Nobly for tlielr Master stood;
Sufferers in his righteous cause,
Followers of a dying Uod.
More than conquerors at last,
Here thoy And their trials o'er:
They have all their sufferings past.
Hunger now and thirst no more."— ll'^tlcy.
Barbara Heck — Godly women in every age — Mistake of date of Bar-
bara's emigration — She found emigrants at oard-playing — Rouseii
Philip — Dr. Clarke— 'Dr. Priestly and Dr. Stephens on the inflaeuce
of woman — History of the Palatines — Cruelty of France — Dr.
Wm. Crook — Emotions of the writer— Pioneers of Methodism —
Sufferings — Cenotaphs of Embury and Heck — Asbury and Sum-
merfield, in John-street — Conversion and speeches of Sommerfield,
and charactsr by Dr. Richey — Poetry.
Barbara ^ecli.
LIVING writer has well said, " That woman was
the finishing grace of creation." No doubt this
writer is an admirer of Milton, who wrote thus, so
beautifully of Eve —
" Grace was in all her steps, heaven in her eye,
In evei-y gesture dignity and love."
And although she was first in the transgression, and thereby
" Brought death into our world, and all our woe,''
yet she was afterwards greatly honoured in being connected
instrumentally in the world's redemption ; and if she was
first in the fall, she was last at her Saviour's cross and ear-
liest at his grave ; so well expressed by the poet—
" Ev'n when Apostles fled, and left him to his doom.
. ..^ „, She lingered round his cross, was earliest at his tomb ."
How often has her sanctified character been employed by
heaven to accomplish some of the most marvellous events
which ever transpired on our globe. On the Old Testament
48 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
piigo, tho namoB of Sarah, Robokuh, Miriam, Deborah, Han-
nah, tho wife of Manoah, Esther and Iluldah, tho learned
prophetess, (see 2 Kings xxii, 14.) will occur to tho mind ;
and on tho New Testament page, those of Anna, Elizabeth,
Martha, Mary, and the other Mary, Dorcas, Lydia, and es-
pecially the Virgin Mother of our Lord, will never bo for-
gotten. We are led to this train of thought by the part
which Barbara Heck was honoured in taking, in tho origina-
tion of Methodism in the United States. Indeed, we miglit
say the same of Susanna Wesley, the honoured mother of
John and Charles Wesley, whoso labours have blessed the
moral universe, as well as England. But one is led to
wonder, how it was that Barbara could have remained so
long in New York, as six years, and manifest no concern for
either Philip or his companions. The secret is simply ac-
counted for thus : that she and her husband, did not go out
until the spring of 1706. This fact was scarcely over
noticed, until brought to light by tho Rev. G. T. PLivtor,
whose history was publishfil eight years ago. His state-
ment is as follows : — "In 1760, another Methodist family
arrived in New York, called Heck ; and when the wife of
this Paul Heck, seeing the Methodists from her own country
had far declined in piety, deeply lamented their condition to
Embury, and hearing that they were on one occasion engaged
even in card-playing, she hastened to the place, reproached
them sharply, and seizing the cards, flung them into the fire.
She then went to the former local preacher, Philip, and with
great earnestneci, even with tears, begged him to preach to
the backsliders, saying, " Brother Embury, you must
preach to us, or we will all go to hell, and God will require
our blood at your hands." He replied, " How can I preach,
for I have neither a house nor a congregation ? " She said,
" Preach in your own house, and to your own company,
lirst." He consented, and at first had only five hearers!
They rapidly increased, and good fruit soon appeared.
Thus if Philip became the father of the Methodist Church
in America, it is equally clear that the mother of that
church was Barbara Heck. She aroused Philip like another
Deborah, arousing Barak, and the Lord in both instances,
" Turned the battle to the gate." Dr. Clarke positively
states that the Gospel was first introduced into Britain by
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 40
a Christian lady, named Pomponia in tho year 43. Sho wna
wife to PiiiutiuH, one of tho Roman generals under tho Em-
peror Claudius. Ho states also, in roferonco to Iluhlah, tho
proplictcss, who lived in tho college at Jerusalem (see Kings
xxii. 14), •' That women, possessing the life of God in their
souls, may have more knowledge of divine testimonies than
many of those whoso oflico it is to explain and enforce
thora.'' Dr. Priestly also says, on the same passage, " It
pleased God to distinguish several women with the spirit of
prophecy, as well as with other attainments, to show that iu
spiritual things, especially, man has no essential pre-eminence
over woman." Dr. Abel Stephens, of America, has published
a volume of 800 pages on ** The Women of Methodism," in
which he delineates the character of its three great found-
resses, namely, Susanna Wesley, the Countess of Huntingdon
and Barbara Heck, with their associates. He says, •' The
agency of woman in religion has formed some of the most
interesting, if not the most salient facts of ecclesiastical his-
tory," and mentions with those I have named above, " Mary
Magdalene, Joanna the wife of Ohuza, Herod's steward, and
Susanna, and many others, who ministered unto Christ of
their substance." — Luke viii. 2. *' The four daughters of
Philip," and Priscilla, also Aquila who " laid down their
own necks for Paul," and " Persis, who laboured much iu
the Lord," and " the elect lady " of St. John. He gives
the hijtory of the Palatines coming to Ireland, and says, that
Louis XIV., in the latter part of the seventeenth century,
devastated the Palatinate on the Rhine. The population was
nearly all Protestant ; 2 cities and 25 villages were burned,
and the peaceable inhabitants had to fly by thousands to the
lines of Marlborough 1 Queen Anne sent ships to convey
them to England ; 6,000 arrived in London, in a state of
poverty ; nearly 8,000 were sent to America ; and fifty
families emigrated to Ireland, where they settled at Ballin-
granne, in the County Limerick. The Government paid
their rent to Lord Southwell for twenty years, which made
them, '* Free Holders," and were called " German Fusileers."
These were the ancestors of the Emburys, ihe RucVlcs, and
the Hecks, &c Thus did the evil policy of Louis scatter those
sterling Protestants of the Rhine, to bless other lands ; just
like the persecution which arose on the death of Stephen,
4
50 tHE NEW world; or,
by which Satan thought to burn Christianity out of the world
altogether, but it only did so out of Jerusalem, and thereby
blessed mankind at large. So it was in this instance ; and
who can tell, but that the blood so wantonly then shed is
now required at the hand of France. ** Verily, there is a
God that judgeth." *' It is marvellous," says Dr. William
Crook, " that an humble, honest, and pious Irish Methodist
carpenter, and an humble pious Methodist matron, were the
honoured founders, and spiritual parents of American Metho-
dism, and that they constructed its cradle, when they erected
the Methodist Church in John-street, New York." And I
would say, " What a numerous ofEspring has that cradle
nursed ! " What must my feeling have been when I stood
in that pulpit, with such sacred associations around me —
Embury, Heck, Boardman, Pilmoor, Whatcoat, Vasey, As-
bury, Coke, Bangs, and Summerfield : God's nobility 1 and
all now away, to that glorious region above, the pdace of
angels and God, where
" MI in an ecstasy gaze,
And hang on a crucified Ood."
Thus we see, that God can bury the greatest of his workmen,
and still carry on his work. "Our Fathers, where are they ? "
We would answer, " Safe in the promised land." " They
were the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ,"
Those were the pioneers of Methodism I Whatever other
qualifications they had, they required to have good lungs,
a loose tongue, deep personal piety, and a burning zeal, that
would dare the rigours of a northern winter, and the heat of
a southern sun ; and at all events, they required to have as
much theological knowledge as enabled them to direct the
trembling soul to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ for
present salvation, and to tell to stout-hearted sinners, that
unless they repented and mended their ways very soon, the
devil would soon away with them altogether ; and to
all, their constant cry was, " Behold, behold the Lamb."
Thus equipped, they penetrated every state, endured the
hardest fare, slept in woods, chased by wolves, pou'aced upon
by panthers, pelted with rotten eggs, stoned by raging mobs,
and often nearly beaten to death by motley crews, and yet,
on they went, conquering and to conquer, from day to day,
RECENT VISIT TO AMfeRlCA. 5t
a fitting type of the English Band, but with harder fare.
Francis Asbury was the ruling spirit among them ; he was
the first Bishop who had a continent for a diocese 1 and
Washington was not more entitled to be called the father of
his country, than was Asbury its apostle. Those humble
men laid the foundation, for civil government in the western
mind, and also became the patrons of learning (although
most of themselves were unlearned) by their givings and
energy. In fact, they established the schools and colleges
which now flourish all over the Union ; and by their self-
denying labomrs hundreds of thousands of the sons of Ham have
been turned from darkness to light, and have now their faces
Zionward; and myriads more have passed triumphant home.
We may surely adopt Montgomery's description of such
immortal heroes—
"Strange scenes, strange men, untold, untried dlstre.u,
Pain, hardship, famine, cold and nakedness :
Diseases, death, in every hideous form,
On shore, at sea, by fire, by flood, by storm,
Wild beasts and wilder men— unmoved with fear.
Health, comfort, safety, life, they count not dear,
May they but. hope a Saviour's love to show,
And warn one spirit from eternal woe ;
Nor will they faint, nor can they strive in vain.
Sines thus, to live ia Christ, to die is gain."
tablets m Iflljii-street ^^urc^, lUefo gork.
Among the marble tablets on the wall, are now two new
beautiful ones, and were first uncovered at this anniversary.
The one on the right of the pulpit is in memory of Philip
Embury and Barbara Hick (for so the word is spelled), and
bears the following inscription: —
" In Memory of
PHILIP EMBURY
and
BARBARA HICK,
Bom in Ireland, emigrants
to New York, they organized
the first Methodist Society
in America in 1766.
Through their labours the
first Methodist Church
■was erected iu this spot, and
dedicated by Embury, the first
Pastor (also the first Class
Leader and Local Preacher,)
October 30th, 1768.
' TLeir works do follow them.' " ■
52 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
The tablet on the left of the pulpit bears, in corresponding
letters, the following on Bishop Asbury : —
" In Memory of
FRANCIS ASBURY,
The Pioneer Bisbop of American Methodism, and the
foremost among her tireless Itinerants.
He was bom in England, August 30, 1745,
entered the ministry at the age of seventeen,
preached his first sermon in this Church
November 13, 1771,
was ordained Bishop, December 24, 1784,
and died near Fredericksburgh,
March 31, 181G.
He ordained over 3,000 Preachers, and preached over 17,000 sermons.
Dying he left the whole Church
the legacy of his labours,
patience, perseverance
and love to Gid and man."
As the name of Summerfield is mentioned above, I may
introduce a few facts concerning him, as he was one of the
most extraordinary young men that Ireland ever raised
since Thomas Walsh. He spent his last four years in
America. His life now lies before me, a beautiful American
edition, published by " the American Tract Society," and
written by John Holland, with an introductory letter by
James Montgomery, Esq. of Sheffield, the sweet bard of
Sacred song. There is a beautiful mural cenotaph erected
in John-street Church to his memory (below is the epitaph),
although he is buried in Sand-street Church, Brooklyn,
where there is also a beautiful tomb-stone over him, on
which another epitaph is written, but it is too long to insert.
" Sacred
To the Memory of the
Rev. John Summrbfibld, A.M.
• A Burning and a Shining Light.'
His mind was stored with treasures of science ;
His perception of truth was clear and comprehensive ;
His language pure.
And his action chaste and simple.
His preaching was in demonstration of the Spirit and of power.
Distinguished by the patience of hope
And the labour of love, ^~"
He finished his course in peace and triumph.
Born in Preston (Lancashiic), England, January Slst, 179S,
And died in this City (New York), June 13th, 1825.'"
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. J3
Upon the base of the tablet is the following (an extract) :—
" This Monument ia erected with sincere prayer that the ardour
of his zeal in the cause of Missions may live in his
successors, when this marble shall moulder into dust."
Uummerfielb'B Conbtrsiatt anb Spcet^tf.
He was converted to God in Dublin in the year 1817,
through the instrumentality of William Haughton, an
humble, but truly pious mechanic. He began to preach
shortly after, and attracted great crowds in Dublin, Corlc,
Roscrea, and Parsonstown ; in the last, the Earl of Rosse,
the nobility, and gentry, as well as " the common people "
heard him gladly. He retiirned to England for a short time,
met the Rev. John Emory from America, and resolved on
going there : he went, and became one of the most popular
orators in the country ; and, like Thomas "Walsh, died an
aged man at 27. The following is a ^mall specimen of his
oratory in a speech delivered at a Bible Society Meeting in
New York in 1821. " It only remains for us to raise the
shout of victory in a cause which yet goes on from conquer-
ing and to conquer. Already we see the dawniug of that
day, the prospect of which so fired the poet's soul when he
sang so sweetly —
' The dwellers in the vale and on the rocks,
Shout to each other ; and the mountain tops
From distant mountains catch the flying joy ;
Till nation after nation taught the strain.
Earth rolls the rapturous Hosanna round '
" The Bible Society has outrode every storm that was raised
against her ; and, though we now appeal in smooth waters,
and have of late been wafted by auspicious gales, yet from
the beginning it was not so. But we never forget that our
Divine Master had embarked with us. For a moment He
seemed asleep, in the hinder part of the ship, yet He soon
awoke, and said to the winds, < Peace be still, and there was
a great calm.' Objections to Bible Societies are now too
late ; our opponents will never be able to suppress them or
impede their progress. Sooner may they arrest the sun at
the antipodes, and prevent his rising to illuminate our
horizon. Sooner may they confine the winds in the Cave
of iEolus, never again to cool and refresh our atmosphere.
54 THE NEW world; OR,
Sooner may they stem the mighty stream that leaves
the mountain side, and interdict its progress to the ocean.
If our successes had been less brilliant, and our undertaking
less productive of good to others, it has at least been of
much good to ourselves. It has brought together the repre-
sentatives of many Christian Churches, and given us a
common stand, on which we may all meet ; and, forgetting
our peculiarities of sentiment in other matters, we see that
our Lord's petition may yet be answered, ' that they all
may be one.' Here we approach each other in angular
lines, when we cannot proceed in parallels, and meet at
length in one common centre, namely a cause whose single
object is ' Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace,
good will towards men ; ' a cause in which
' Namts and Kects and patties fall,
And JeiUB Christ is all in all.' "
Jr. Il^eg's Character of Sfummerfielb.
The Rev. Matthew Richey, D.D., remarks of this ad-
mirable and lamented young minister, whom the great Head
of the Church made a polished shaft in his quiver, and in
whom He was greatly glorified : " Thus at the age of twenty-
three, Summerfield's- mind exhibited a harmony and an
expansion which very rarely anticipate the meridian of life.
The unearthly invigoration of the love of Christ affords the
only satisfactory solution of the rapid development of hia
uncommon mental energies. Though a diligent student,
time did not permit him to attain full maturity of scholar-
ship ; but he possessed in a high degree all the attributes of
a mind of the first order ; his understanding was cleaTi his
judgment discriminating, and his imagination so vigorous
and susceptible, that it cost him no effort to fling the hues
and tints of vitality over the abstractions of truth, and thus
to impart to the most common-place topic all the freshness
and interest of originality. The natural effect of his thril-
ling eloquence was materially aided by a person and a
manner the most graceful, and an aspect of angelic benignity.
Its moral charm was the demonstration and power of that
Divine Spirit
' Who touched Isaiah's hallowed lips with fire,' "
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 55
It is said that a short time before his death he sung with
ecstasy the hymn beginning with
" 'Tis almost dont, 'tis almost o'er," &o.
And then gradually and sweetly slept in Jesus. The fol-
lowing lines cannot be more appropriately applied to any
one than to him: —
" Saw ye not th« wheels of flre,
And the steeds that cleft the wind ?
Saw ye not his soul aspire,
When his mantle dropt behind ?
Ye that caught it as it feU,
Bind that mantle round your breast ;
So in you his meekness dwell,
So on you his spirit rest."
56 • THE NEW world; or,
chapter F.
Setonb Mtth m ^tbs |[orfe— |ris|f ^ffairs, tit,
" Hands and heart and feet and tongue
All for willing service strung ;
"Work ! iind still thy quest renew.
Lord ! what would'st thou have me do."
"Withdrawal of American grant made in 1864 to the Irish Conference —
Writer's Speech — Visits Brooklyn — Conversion of young Myles,
the Great-great-granci-nephew of William Myles of Limerick —
Young Murphy, Grand-nephew to Gideon Onselay — Death —
Widow's Sons — Preachers' Weekly Meeting — Missionary Meeting
in 37th Street — William Cornell, Esq. — Large Contributions-
Death.
TUESDAY, Nov. 17th (New York)— Attended the
Missionary Conference both yesterday and to-day;
and oh, how much information turns upon various
subjects. This being the last day, I was anxious to see if the
subject of the application from the Irish Conference, for the
continuance of the grant promised in 1864,would be sanctioned.
The document from the Irish Conference was read, signed
" James Tobias, Secretary." It was an able production ; he
apologised for delay, but it appears it came quite time enough,
as far as action was concerned. There came in also another
very able document from " The New York Irish Advisory
Committee," strongly remonstrating on account of the with-
drawal of the grant by the last Conference ! It appears a
resolution passed the General Conference of 1868 in Chicago,
rescinding the resolution of 1864, which allowed grants to
be made to other Conferences as well as their own, and in that
year grants were made both to France and Ireland. The
causes for rescinding those grants were stated to be, Jirst,
that they were not promised to be in perpetuity ; and
secondly, that the heavy responsibility arising from the
Southern States rendered it altogether impossible to continue
them. Of course there could be no appeal until the next
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 57
General Conference iii 1872, so after sDme discussion the
matter was allowed to drop. I believe the bishops will
advocate its restoration, especially Bishops Simpson and
Janes, if spared ; and I trust tiey will be preserved long to
the Church of God. Of course, their leanings are Irish ;
indeed I must say, that many kind things were said of
Ireland by several at the meeting. Dr. M'Clintock was
not present. Bishop Janes then rose and said, " I beg now
to introduce Brother W. G. Campbell to the meeting, that he
may give us some information about the work of God in
Ireland." I saw at once the Bishop's design ; he wanted to
engage the sympathies of all the brethren in our behalf. I
said that " I did not appear before them in any official
capacity whatever ! that I felt greatly gratified in being
permitted to sit among them as a visitor from Ireland, and
that I was much profited also ; I was wiser than when I
entered that room. I had no idea of the vast extent of
their missionary operations, embracing both the domestic
and the foreign element. I said I could tell them a little
about what we were doing in Ireland, and what we hoped
yet to do ; that our country has been for many years in a
transition state, but that we were coming to an important
crisis. Many changes were likely to take place by reason
of the disestablishment and diaendowment of the Irish
Church, I may say Churches^ including the Presbyterian.
These things called on us to have cwr lamps well trimmed.
As far as our past labours are concerned, they (in
America) had largely shared in the fruits ; that while we
sowed, they reaped ; that while we went down deep into
the mine, and brought up precious gems, some of the richest
contributed tb bespangle their church banners. That we
have lately enlarged our borders of operation, partly by
reason of their kind grant in 1866 ; that we have established
' A Home Missionary Department ' on the English plan,
and appointed several men to those posts; that we also
enlarged our Irish General Mission ; and that new openings
are multiplying in all directions ; and that claims, of
course, are corresponding, while our best members are
diminishing year by year by reason of emigration. I said we
were grateful for the care they took of our people when they
do come, although wo do not send them ; yet there is some-
58 THE NEW world; or,
thing in training them well, and indeed it is questionable if
half of them would ever think of coming out at all, had they
not been so well enlightened and evangelized. It must be
confessed there is a religious liberty and a freedom here
which many of them could not enjoy at home, for there
never was such mastery usurped, both political and ecclesiasti-
cal, as at the present time in Ireland ; we have dangers to com-
bat also and sometimes have to resist them even unto blood, as
was the case lately in Granard ! In Ulster there is very
seldom any hindrance to open-air preaching, but there is
considerable opposition in the South, East, and West ; how-
ever, there are even here exceptional spots ; but we have
sometimes ^f^ adopt the guerilla tactics, and, like the Par-
thian in battle, ' Strike, and wound, and fly.' During the
last year our General Mission effort was crowned with much
success. Wo th'ik the ' time, yea the set time to favour
Zion (in Ireland) is come ; ' and the voice of Providence seems
to say, * Arise, and take possession of the land ! ' There
is a tide in the history of Churches, as well as of nations
and of individuals, which, when taken at the flood, leads to
prosperity ; but, if neglected, lamentable results follow.
We are striving to carry out the principle of self-reliance
to the fullest extent ; but ' if the f oimdations (of our
Society) be removed, what can the righteous do? ' We are
striving to bring the salt of Divine truth to bear on the
bitter waters of our country as well as we can ; and if our
American bretliren will stand by us, and come to our help,
I trust the land will soon have to yield to the power of
evangelical culture ; but, if not, * deliverance will come
from some other quarter." I fully sympathize with the
vast machinery which your Missionary Society in America
has to sustain, and with the formidable difliculties presenting
themselves from the Southern States; so that I could
scarcely ask you to do anything for us this year; and espe-
cially as I was not sent here to solicit help ! but I am not
forbidden to offer a few hints, and which may serve at
another time ! (I then described some of Messrs. Graham
and Ouseley's labours ;) and that now, let matters be as they
may, we are determined to go ahead, * through evil report
and good report ; ' and if they would wish to take a leaf
out of oiu* book in establishing a General Mission in their
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 59
country, and I did not know of any thing they could do better :
that 1 thought if they should ask our Conference for the
loan of a man or two, say for a year or so, to lay down the
lines of operation, that they would be cordially responded
to. In everything else we are nearly one ; why not in this ? '*
I then sat down amidst the strongest expressions of sympathy
with the statements I made ; and I believe I served the
interest of the Irish Mission on this day; and I trust thnt
the fruit will appear another time. I had then the pleasure
of presenting each bishop with a copy of " The Apostle of
Kerry " (as also to all the officers), which gives such a full
view of the labours of Ireland's best evangelists during the
former part of the present century. I had many invitations
on that day to preach in the churches.
Wediiesday, Nov. ISth. — On the evening of this day I
visited Brooklyn, where a niece of Mrs. Campbell's resides,
andmother to young My le8,the great great-grand-nephew of the
venerable William Myles, formerly of Limerick. Her hus-
band. Dr. Myles, died before she left for America; after this,
her son returned for some time, at the instance of his aunts.
During that visit he came to spend his Christmas with us, when
in Oughterard, and there he was truly converted to God, and
retains his piety ; he is now a very useful and active mem-
ber in one of the chiu'ches in this place. It is pleasing to
find the fruit of that little Mission, that had so much to con-
tend with from the beginning (and has still), flourish on
American soil. It is also worthy of remark, that anothor
niece was married to a grand-nephew of Gideon Ouseley's.
He became a minister, laboured hard for a few years, and
then passed away, leaving two promising boys, who, I trust,
will be also pillars in the Church. Both mothers were con-
verted in early life, on the first Circuit I travelled. All
glory to God ! Thus Ireland, though poor, enriches Ameri-
can Methodism.
Sabhath, 22nd. — Preached during the last few days in
several places, and to-day three times, in three different
churches. I met several whom I knew many years ago, in
the old country ; and one, who said, " I prayed to God
for many years, to send you to America, that I might see
you, before I would die." This was " one of the days of
6o THE NEW WORLD; OR,
lii-^ Son of Man," and oh, how Messrs. Stevenson, Armstrong,
and A. Fowler, laboured with me. One friend came many
miles to see me, and obtained good.
^remt^ers* SSIteKIn Reeling.
Monday 2Zrd, Fifteenth day in New York. — Attended the
Preachers' Weekly Meeting at Mulberry-street. There were
nearly as many present as at some of our Irish Conferences.
They make it a matter of conscience to attend ; and there
they relate any circumstance of a cheering character, in con-
nection with their churches, since last they assembled.
They also generally mention a subject for discussion, on the
following Monday. The one to-day was, " The cause of
declension in piety, among the people of God." One aged
brother, of the name of Deviney, stated his conviction that
the system of Pew-lettinq had banished all the poor from
their churches, and that they had 'ost their hlessinci!
Another spoke of the light and fictitious character of the
books of the present day ; that the taste for solid reading
is rapidly declining. Another, as a remedy, recommeaded
the change of pulpits and putting up placards, to attract at-
tention. Another asked, what was the best method to get
the rich converted? Another asked, " What is the Christian
doctrine of woman? " I thought a more fitting term would
be, " What was the duty of Christian women ? " The term
was ambiguous : if duty be properly performed, doctrine
will follow. It reminds me of what old Matthew Henry
says of woman, in his commentary : " The woman was made
of a rib, out of the side of Adam, not out of his head, to top
him ; not out of his feet, to be trampled upon by him : but
out of his side, to be equal with him ; under his arm, to be
protected ; and near his heart to be beloved." This inspired
Charles Wesley's poetic powers, thus —
" Not from his head, was woman took,
As made her husband to o'erlook;
Not from his feet, as one designed
The footstool of the stronger kind;
liut fashioned for himself— a bride;
An equal, taken from his xlde: , --
Her pliice intended to maintain,
The mate and glory of the man;
— • To rest, as still beneath his arm - -
Protected by her lord from harm, •
.■ And never from his heart removed.
And only loss than God, beloved."
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 6l
I was then called on to speak, and to sing ono of Gideon
Ousoley's Irish hymns. The following is n Bpecimen. I
give it in its pronounced form. The verse in ^English is,
** Come, ye sinners, poor and wretched," Ac, and the chorua
is, " Turn to the Lord, and seek salvation," &g, —
Thiggy fackey bogth a crawthoo,
Log gun ciionoo bogth goo awe.
ishasBon E'Esa lu dtho haw waul,
Lawn do hughogth agiiti dUo graw,
(Jhouub.
Uropoo egg Dhia a^us e'er er paidthoon,
Mol go more agua iiiol go thougii
E'Eba uhreuH t)ia liee ua Nashooii,
Vee slioy morroo ngiis nlsh Thaw buow.
I then spoke as to the best method of getting at the masses ;
and Kiid, " If you want to reach them, let your Conference
appoint a few of your choice men, who will be able ' to meet
the enemy in the gate,' and, at the same tim«, men, burn- »
ing with love to the souls of men, and zeal for the liedeemer's
glory ; and send them at large, without any financial respon-
sibility ; let them be well sustained, and let them not be
mere colporteurs, with a bag of books on tlieir back, but
thorough, right-away Evangelical Missionaries, who will stand
up at every corner, and ' cry aloud and spare not,' until
every street and square, and every hamlet too, resounds with
the Saviour's name. If this be done, you will have more
accomplished in one year for the masses, than you will in
seven, by the ordinary and stereotyped round of ministerial
labour and pastoral toil, all good in their place, but wo must
have evangelists, as well as pastors and teachers. In no other
way will we ever be able to overtake the rapidly increasing
population. Thousands on thousands of our best members
in Ireland were brought to God in this way ; and you have
thousands of them in America. I am willing to go with any
of you for a few days. Let us do something, and not spend
so much of our time planning." I said, *' Let good Brother
Piatt there volunteer for this service, as it lies so near his
heart." Of course, there was a little smile. I did not know
that he was pastor of one of the richest Methodist Churches
in Brooklyn ; but if all would take the streets (and here
you have liberty of speech) by turn, and interchange
in this way, it would do more good, as far as the out-
side population is concerned, than all the interchange o^
62 THE NEW world; OR,
pulpits inside, for yeurs." I wus very respuctfully listonod
to, while I spoke, for a cjuarter of an houn Those weekly
meetings are of grout value. In the evening I iittended the
New York City Sunduy School Missionary Meeting, for
37th Street Church. The Honorary Superintendent, Mr.
Wm. Cornell, and the Rev. Mr. liutledge, pastor of St. Paul's
Church, attended as a deputation. My subject was, " The
triumphs of the Gospel in IreUind.'* The other brethren
spoke well. Here again, I have to pause, and exclaim,
" What is our life ? " This Mr. Cornell, then in the strength
of manhood, and one of the most influential merchants in
New York, and one of the most liberal givers, as well as
one of the best of men, is gone. lie died last Christmas of
fever (18C9). He was converted about 20 years ago, through
the instrum' icality of the Rev. James Caughoy. I saw him a
short time before I left. I heard ho assisted Dr. Scott in
his college application nobly, and also the Irish Advisory
Committee, and said he would do so again. He asked mo
to his house, but I could not go. The report for that year
now lies before me ; and oh, what a prominent part did
Mr. Cornell take iu its working ! Several mission churches
built in one year by its labours ! It wus said that he would
not allow his capital to increase beyond a certain sum, and
all over that went to the cause of God. I hear he gave
away in one year £40,000. The total receipts of the Mis-
sionary Society for that year, in the city alone, came to about
£10,000 of our money. Mr. Cornell's annual subscription
was £150, and his brother in the firm, the same, besides
donations to Chapels, and to all the other charities. But he
is gone from the Church militant, to the Church triumphant.
" O may I meet him there
With Christ our heavenljr Mend,
Where all our blissful, holy joys,
With Him shaU never end.
" There God shall recompense,
Most righteously reward
All faithful servants labouring here,
To glorify the Lord."
Tuesday, 2ith Novemher. — Was hard pressed for time, to
attend to calls on every side, to write letters to Europe, and
to Canada, &c., and besides preach every evening, and hold
special services. I don't know what I should do, if I had
official responsibilities to perform.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA, 65
Wednesday^ 2oth. — Visited our venoniblo Futhur Pratt, in
Jersey City. I knew him for several years in Ireland, ho
Buccccded mo in tho first Circuit I travelled. Uo is now in
his 88th year, and a noble specimen of Irish longevity. I
need not describe the joy he manifested at seeing me. Ilia
exclamations would almost lead me to think that he ques*
tioned the reality of my identity. He retains all the cheer-
fulness of youth. The pleasing smile, the guileless and
hearty laugh, are all his own still. A visit to him would be
an admirable cure for any one labouring luider lowness of
spirits. His intellect is clear, and his memory of former
times very retentive. I never met with an old man who
did not complain of a bad memory, until I met Mr. Pratt at
thib time. I must also mention his gratitude to his Irish
Ministerial brethren, for recommending his case to the
Auxiliary Fund, by which his annuity was greatly increased.
It revived his old age, and gave fresh buoyancy to the wing,
just like the plumage of the eagle after moulting, and
smoothed his passage to the tomb. I gave him a photograph
copy of a letter of Mr. Wesley's, Mi4iich he wrote to a lady
who was threatened with consumption. I got it done in
New York. Ho said, " Oh, I never saw any thing so well
done." Mr. Wesley's cure was this, " To live on butter-
milk, churned in a bottle, for three months, with suit-
able horse exercise." I also gave him, "The Apostle of
Kerry," for which ho seemed almost overcome with grati-
tude, which made me ashamed ; but immediately he began
to tell me several anecdotes of the old Irish Preachers. One
was about old William Hamilton. The following is a
specimen : it is an extract from a letter written to Mr.
Pratt after Mr. H. had ceased to travel. *' I live here far
away in the country, where the devil has not much work
to do, so that we have not much trouble in resisting him ;
but, as you live in the town, I would advise you never to
go out without a stone in your pocket to strike, for you will
be likely to meet him at every corner." Mr. Pratt also
mentioned what the Rev. R. Crozier said to him one day,
on a hard country Circuit, " Brother Pratt," said he, " we
would require to be as strong as bullocks, to stand this rough
work, day by day, and nothing to lie down on at night but
straw beds." And yet, with all tliis hardship, the work
64 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
scarcely ever pfospered more gloriously than at that time.
They did indeed, "Endure hardness, as good soldiers of Jesus
Christ." I said to him, " Mr. Pratt, do you remember what
you said to my mother-in-law (Mrs. Armstrong, of Arva,)
on one occasion when she was lying ill for some time ? "
" No," said he, " I do not." " Well," said I, " you called
to see her ; and when you entered the chamber, where she
lay, you said, * It is well for you, Mrs. Armstrong, that you
have nothing to do, but to sail iil< ng in a feather bed, to
glory.' " " Oh," said he, " did I say that 7 " and laughed im-
moderately. It is very likely it made the good old lady, also,
laugh heartily at the time, and perhaps did her as much
good as a doctor's recipe. But I had to leave. He literally
fell on my neck, and we wept, and bade each other an afEec-
tionate farewell. I did not expect to see him again. He
sent his best love to his Irish brethren, lie was very
comfortable, and lodged with Widow M'Bride, sister to our
worthy sister Moore, the widow of the late Rev. H Moore,
and daughter of the late venerable William Keys.
Here I may remark that 1 saw Mr. Pratt some months
after the above interview, and he was still in the same
placid state of holy hope and heartfelt joy ; but now it is
^1 ovet. He sickened last February (1870), and speedihr
crossed the stream, or as Payson called it, " the rill." He
passed through death triumphant home, and is now for ever
with the Lord, and far from the trying vicissitudes of the
seasons, to which he was, at his age, painfully exposed in
America. The following lines pourtray his character and
his end :—
" This aged man was often met
With trembling steps and bIow ;
With solemn mein and sable garb,
And hair as white as snow.
No pride of spirit in his look,
His face serenely fair,
Proclaimed to all who knew him best,
A heavenly heart was there.
No longer parched by burning heat,
Or chilled by wintry snows,
The Kose of Sharon was his boast,
And Jesus is that Kose.
The conqueror's laurel wreaths his brow.
Yes, he hath fought and won
A victory o'er the powers of hell,
His race is safely run."
I must here express my obligations to our deir brother,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 65
the Rev. John Campbell of Jersey City. He was unremit-
ting in his attention to Mr. Pratt, and indeed to every Irish
Methodist, and Methodist minister. He paid me all manner
of attention, as he did, I believe, to L'r. Scott. We corres-
pond still; and, when Mr. Pratt died, he despatched a
letter and a paper giving the whole particulars ; but it is
likely they went down with " the Boston steamer." Since
then he renewed all the intelligence, and now the Irish
Minutes present the results of his communications in the
record of his death. Mr. Campbell is from the neighbour-
hood of Clones. He emigrated many years ago. He often
heard me preach when I travelled the Clones Circuit in the
year 1835. He told me the following occurred at a Leader's
Meeting in Newtownbutler. The Rev, W. Hamilton, the
old Irish missionary, was present, as were the two ministers
of the Circuit. Mr. Hamilton rose, and in his own peculiarly
natural but humorous style said, " I have two heavy charges
to make against our present preachers. One is against the
Superintendent, Brother R., for preaching three quarters of
an hour too long ; and the other is against Brother M. for
not only galloping over his sermon like a race horse, but
flying so fast as if pursued by an enemy, that we can never
overtake him." Mr. R. was an able divine, and Mr. M.
was a very warm-hearted, but very nervous young man.
He afterwards mellowed down wonderfully. The writer
knew both, and Mr. Hamilton's description was to the life.
The good brethren held down their heads, while the other
good brethren present, could have enjoyed a hearty laugh,
and no doubt did so, when they were released. It was of
course only regarded as a little specimen of natural wit and
humour in the old man. Father Beam, the travelling com-
panion of Bishop Asbury, still lives in Jersey City, and
resides close to where Mr. Pratt lived. He is now full 96.
I saw him in New York as blithe as a lark, and as happy
as an angel, and humming a revival hymn. How true is
the promise in each case, " with long life will I aatisjy him,"
— not merely bless, but satisfy — give satisfaction with age.
Hence neither fell out with it. He and Mr. Pratt worship-
ped together, visited together, and were often called on to
pray in the same church by the R«t. Mr. Dunne, who ho-
66 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
noured both of them, and was also very attentive to me. I
met many Irish Methodists in his church.
Friday, 27th. — This is " Thanksgiving Day " throughout
the Union. Jl appears i^ originated thus. The Puritans
abolished Christmas Day as a relic of Popery, and of prelacy
also, which they held with equal abhorrence ; indeed they
passed laws to punish its observance ; and, wanting some-
thing to replace it, the Governors of the States appointed a
day in autumn, about the end of November, as a day of
solemn prayer and thanksgiving for the blessings of the
year, and especially for the bounties of the harvest. Sermons
are preached in all the churches, and generally published in
the newspapers, sometimes as political, as religious. I
preached in the forenoon in 37th-street church on Ex. xv. 2.
** He is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my
father's God, and I will exalt him ; " and in the evening on
Statten Island, where I met Mr. and Mrs. Weir from Belfast,
and many relatives. I trust it Was a day of blessing to some at
least. The pastor, a promising young man (this being the
general appellation for ministers) was truly kind. I hear he
has since gone to glory.
Saturday, 28th. — I visited Harlem, about three miles off,
by street cars. Here I met a Mr. Wood, who came from
Ireland about 40 years ago. He is very wealthy — a dan-
gerous talent. I found him very hospitable and kind. I
gave an address on the moral wants of Ireland. There was
quite a religious stir in the church that night, and Mr,
Wood was greatly excited.
Sabbath, 'Jdth. — Met in a class conducted by a Mr. Fat-
ridge, a thorough Irishman, and also increased in goods.
Both himself and wife most hospitable. I hear they enter-
tained Samuel Dunne from England for several months,
gratis. He is certainly not what may be called a silent
worshipper. The speaking was very lively and candid. A
verse of a hymn is generally sung after each member speaks.
I thought it rather much. An occasional verse would, I
think, be a great improvement to our mode ; it would break
the monotony. I preached at 10^ a.m. to a very large con-
gregation in 37th Street, and in the evening in 27th Stieet to
a multitude of young and old. In the afternoon, and before
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 67
I gave a short address in the latter place, I was greatly struck
with the monthly examination of, and address to the Infant
Class. A little girl, of not more than eleven years of age,
spoke beautifully. The subject was " decision for Christ."
There she was, inside the communion rails, and the children
on the gallery ! I was amazed at the self possession, correct-
ness, action, tone and emphasis of this child, but this is
America, where it is said, there are no children/ In the
evening the prayer meeting after preaching in 27th Street
was a marvellous scene ; one of the most successful of all
since I came to New York.
Monday, 30th. — Passed part of this day with the kind
Elliott family. In the evening, accompanied by Messrs.
John and George, I repaired to preach to a coloured congre-
gation. It was indeed a scene of marvel. I took 1 Tim., i.
1 5, " This is a faithful saying," &c. During the discourse
there was marked attention, except a little shout now and
then ; but at the prayer meeting, matters rose to a higher
key. The cry of penitents was very piteous ; but when the
speaking began, the excitement was tremendous, and their
bodies were also greatly agitated. I hear they cannot help
themselves, when once the mind becomes excited. The
experience was very thrilling, and very demonstrative.
Their expressions of joy are very peculiar, generally bor-
rowed from whatever gives bodily pain or pleasure. It is
said of one young lad who was converted, that the only word
he could find to express his joy was " sugar," and this word
he repeated several times, laying his hand on his breast now
and then ; and does not the Psalmist speak of " honey and
the honeycomb ? " I had heard of their liability to great
excitement, but I certainly was not fully prepared for the
amount of it I beheld to-night ; and I don't know that I
should like to witness the same scene very often. But great
allowance should be made for a people so long trodden
under foot ! The wonder is, that they have been raised to
such a high degree of civilization, and that their religious
sympathies are so strong. Thus end my 23 days of happy
toil in New York ; and for all that I witnessed, all I enjoyed,
and for all the kind favour which I have obtained in the
sight of this people, I must here offer my sincere thanks to
the Most High, who seemed to have all arranged for my
i'j
66 THE Kew world ; OR,
coming ; and I also here tender my grateful acknowledg-
ments to all my kind friends. I can only remember them
where it is best to be remembered. And now I may truly
sing with cheerful voice and heartfelt consecration —
" All honour and praise to the Father of grace,
To the Spirit and Son, I return ;
The Imsiness pursue Ho hath made me to do,
And rejoice that I ever was bom.
" In a rapture of jov my life I employ,
The God of my life to proclaim ;
'Tis worth living (or this, to administer bliss
And salvation in Jesus's name.
" My remnant of days I spend in his praise,
who died the whole world to redeem ;
He they many or few. my days are his due,
And tliey all are devoted to Him."
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA, 69
Chapter F$.
^tia gork iir SJuns^ine nnb tn SJbabf.
" To know the country to its farthest veins
Find out its heart ; there all its bcitii; tends.
The mighty mart throbs only ¥rith the pulses
Of the wide land, which pours its streams of life
And strength into Its bosom,"
New York in sunshine — Its name— Extent — Its population — Broadway-
Buildings— City Hall -Trinity Church— Wall Street— Exchange
— Marvellous scene — Benevolent Institutions — Denominations-
Extent of Methodism — Paradise of Preachers — Liberality of the
Churches— New York in shade — Fearful demoralization — La-
mentable case of an English Miser.
RAVING now passed three weeks in the City of New
York, it may be expected that I should speak a little
of its " Fors " and "Ayainsts,^* " its glory and its
shame," " it? praise and its blame," " its greatness and its
weakness," " its sunshine and its shade." We will take the
latter for our motto, and begin first with its sunshine and
then with its shade ; although occasionally these must come
up in contrast, and on the same page. I have culled from
many a volume, as well as from my own observations ; and
I hope to be candid and true.
Si^e Citg in SintiB^nnt, ^nrm, tU.
New York City may be well regarded as one of the modern
wonders of the world. It is the commercial (but not the
legislative) metropolis of America ; the latter honour belongs
to Washington. New York is the third largest city in the
world, and is to America what London is to England and
Paris to France. It is the Empire City of the great Republic,
and the richest in the western world. It is the home of
more than a million of inhabitants ; and, with its environs,
about two. Its march of improvement is beyond all calcu-
lation, and it bids fail for a future which is likely to astonish
and move the world. The navies of all seas might ride in
its spcioug h^fbgiirj and it;8 bay pai^ comparej for beauty
70 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
and for safety, with any sheet of water on the globe. It
stands on an island surrounded by three rivers, the Hudson
(called after Henry Hudson, an early Dutch explorer), the
Harlem, and the East River. It is 16 miles from the At-
lantic, and about 3,500 from Liverpool. The Dutch or
Hollanders were its earliest settlers, and first called the
island Mauritius, after a Dutch Prince of the name of Mau-
rice, and who became its first governor ; but afterwards
they called it Amsterdam, after the capital of Northern Hol-
land. The Indian name for the island was Manhattan,
which some humourously said originated from the circum-
stance of the squas (Indian females) wearing hats like men,
and calling the island Man-hat-on, or, Man-with-hat-on.
In the Indian language it is supposed to mean, " The Island
of Delights," because Manetho, the great Indian gpirit, was
supposed to make this island his favourite abode, on account
of its uncommon delights ; and the Indian tradition still ob-
tains that the bay was once a translucid lake filled with
silver and golden fish ; but Hudson, the first explorer, said,
" Oh, it must mean ' Manna,' " and called it " The Island of
Manna," or the " Land flowing with milk and honey," or
abundance ; in fact, another Canaan. But when the English
conquered it in the 17 th century, they called it New York,
after the Duke of York, the King's brother, to whom the
King, Charles I. made it, and the whole surrounding district,
a present. The island partakes something of the form of a
fan from the battery to its northern limits. It is fifteen
miles long to the Harlem river on one side, and is bounded
by the bay leading to the Atlantic, on the other. The
principal street is " Broadway," which runs the entire
length of the island, and is paved, lighted, and policed all
through. The city is only one mile and a- half in its average
breadth. It takes 2,000 police to guard it, at the cost of a
million and a-half of dollars yearly; and requires half a
million of dollars to light it, and nearly a million of dollars
are also laid out in public charities. The religious bodies,
for supporting their churches, contribute annually nearly
three million of dollars, or about haK a million sterling of
our money. There are about 300 benevolent societies of
different kinds. The Protestant and Roman Catholic popu-
lation are nearly equal in the city ; but the former out-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA, 7I
numbers, if the environs are taken into account. The popu-
lation of the city is rapidly increasing; and so is Brooklyn
and Jersey city on either side. The great idea of equality
obtains every where, perhaps often too much so : tho
rich and the poor seem to live and die together ; and,
when a man is known, he will find a warm and benevolent
heart in New York, a frank, sociable, and Christian genero-
sity. The climate is delightful, the spring and autumn are
long and delicious, nearly eight months of the year, give a
charm to life, and exhilirate the spirits; the winter is short
and clear, and the winds bracing, and bear health on their
wings. " Broadway " is a perfect and a perpetual pano-
rama ! its variety never tires. The windows are filled with
the richest and most elegant goods: gold, silver, jewels,
diamonds, silks, satins, and all manner of costly fabrics
flash under plate glass for miles ; and the salubrity of its
location is superlatively excellent. But when we consider
its free school system, its mercantile enterprise, and its
princely mercantile establishments, the industry of its
mechanics, its nobie banks, and its colossal hotels, all be-
speak a people equalled to, and determined on, unrivalled
greatness. As to the antiquity of its public buildings, they
cannot, for a new country, bo expected to compare with
those of the old world, especially as to architectural gran-
deur. In fact, Rome has had neither time nor power suffi-
cient to gratify its taste for display, as it had on the continent
of Europe ; but after all, what are monumental piles and
ecclesiastical turrets but a pandering to our sensational na-
ture ? The mind craves for something beyond time, because
it was created for immortality ; but will the cold carved
stone, however well adjusted, meet its wants ? It asks for
bread, but blinded man would give it a stone. We despise
neither beauty, nor space, nor ornament, where all other
suitabilities concur, and circumstances justify ; but vital
religion will create a taste, a grace, a beauty, and a simpli-
city all its own, together with an outward drapery corres-
pondent with the principles taught within. " The kingdom
of God Cometh not with (outward) observation."
" Signs more glorious, all excelling,
Brighter witness we must show ; _ ,:
» - Where the Spirit of truth is dwelling,
There simplicity will grow." , • ■'
72 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
^t (S^tlg fall.
This hall is one of the chief ornaments of the city, and
stands near Wall-street, in the midst of a park of about ten
acres, and shows to great advantage. It was nine years in
building. It is only second for beauty to the Capitol
Senate House) in Washington . It is the finest for architecture
in the city. Its dimensions are very great ; and its apart-
ments splendid and numerous. The chief external ornament
is its vast cupola, which overhangs a great part of the city,
and can be seen from a great distance ; in it is stationed a
sentinel, whose business it is to give alarm in case of fire.
I guess he must be kept pretty busy, both night and day.
On the top of the cupola is the figure of justice, and close
by, in a tower, hangs a massive bell, which weighs 9,9101bs.
It is only rung in case of fire, and is called, and well known,
as " The great Fire Bell." Its deep tones can be heard
several miles off. It is awfully solemn at midnight, and no
doubt often suggestive, to some at least, of the period to
which the apostle Peter refers, " But the day of the Lord
will come as a thief in the night, and the earth and the works
therein shall be burned up." — 2 Peter iii. 10. Washington's
writing desk, and the chair in which he was inaugurated,
are preserved in it. It is always open, and no charge.
The other grand specimen of architecture is Trinity
Church (Episcopalian). It stands in " Broadway," and at
the head of " Wall-etreet,^^ as if keeping " watch and ward
over that street of morals and of mammon," where one
is reminded of the lines written by an old poet on
"GOLD, GOLD, GOLD.*
" Bright and yellow, hard and cold,
Molten, graven, hammered, rolled.
Heavy to get, but lif ht to hold.
Hoarded, bartered, ought and sold. ■
Stolen, borrowed, squandered, doled.
Spurned by the young, hugged by the old.
To the very verge of the church-yard mould, iij
Price of many a crime untold —
Gold, Gold, Gold ! "
The very chime and clank and clatter of this rough efiEusion
correspond with what I witnessed in the Exchange in " WcUl-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 73
gtreet.''* Such a Babel of tongues I never witnessed in all
my life, and how they understood each other was more than
1 could divine. I thought there could not be less than a
hundred voices going at full speed, and at the same time.
Some selling, others purchasing, but all fully resolved to wor-
eliip the golden image. It would remind one of the confusion
at "Ephesus" occasioned by one Demetrius, the silver-
smith ; " some cried one thing, and some another ; and the
assembly was confused.'* In a work just published in New
York, it is stated, " The chamber of the Board of Brokers
will hold a thousand people, and at high change, it is packed.
The basin where they assemble is called the cock-pit.
Daily some stock excites the market. "When this exciting
stock is called, the whole chamber is aroused ; chairs are
abandoned, men rush pell-mell into the cock-pit, and crowd,
jostle, push, and trample on one another. They scream out
their offers to buy and sell, they speak all at once, yelling
and screaming like hyenas. Pandemonium is not wilder or
more disorderly. Several hundred men surge, stamp, yell,
scream, jump, sweat, and gesticulate violently, shaking their
fists in each other's faces, and talking in a tongue never
spoken at Pentecost. The president stands erect, cool and
silent, in the midst of all this mad frenzy and disorder,
which is all well understood by the initiated. At last the
mallet of ivory comes down with a shower of vigorous blows
on a block of wood encased in brass, and * Order, order I '
runs through the chamber. In a moment the tempest is
hushed, the name of the buyer is announced, and <No
more offers to- day,' gentlemen, closes the scene." Notwith-
standing all this, commercial principle is generally rewarded
with great success, and men of integrity are held up at a
high premium, and always succeed. But to return to
Trinity Church. Dr. Dixon remarks, "It is only like a
baby in a costly dress compared with the old remains of
Europe." I suppose he had in his mind, either St. Paul's
in London, Yorkminster in York, or if he ever visited the
Eternal City, St. Peter's in Rome. It lifts its tall steeple
to heaven amid the din and babel of business. From its
magnificent tower, bells strike out the quarters and half
hours of the day, and chime with mellifluous peals the full
hours, telling th^ anxious, the excited, and th^ rushing
74 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
crowd how swiftly lifo ia passing away, reminding one of
tliu following moralizing linoa, partly takou from Chamhera^a
Journal —
"Listen to that midnight lono,
The church clock Hpeakuth with a Rolomn tone ;
Doth It no more than toll the time f
Hark, from that belfry gray, niothlnka It gooma to say
In each doup bouming clilinu, both slow and clear,
And boats In meaaurod strokoa upon the oar ;
' Tliou haat slept too long and dreamed the morn away
In visions false, and feverish unrest,
Wasting the work-time liod hath given and bleat!'
Conscience grows pale ; hark, another hour Is gone,
Up, careless mortal, up ! arise and pray."
The tower and spire are open to visitors daily, except on
Sunday, and during service on week days. Visitors may
ascend by a spiral stairway of 808 steps to the height of
250 feet, whence a magnificent view of the city and sur-
rounding scenery may be obtained ! The best position to view
this gorgeous panorama is from the battlement, at the base
of the spire ! Look around, and you perceive the roofs and
chimneys of the great city, seemingly piled in confusion,
and stretching away northward to the extent of vision ; on
the west, south and east, there is a fringe of merchant ships
and smaller craft at their nworings ; while the expanse of
waters is dotted with moving vessels, propelled by steam,
wafted by the breeze, or moved by the strong arm of the
oarsman. Again look northward, and the horizon is
bounded by the city, and from your feet starts a noble
avenue, thronged with vehicles and pedestrians, and glitter-
ing with the brilliant temples of trade. You see it narrow-
ing in perspective for full two miles distant. That is
Broadway/ with its crowded side- walks and bustling tho-
roughfare ; and, were it not for the sprinkling of the black
faces with which it is chequered here and there, one would
suppose himself transported back to some very populous
city in Europe, such as London or Paris, only making
allowance that at all times here
" Distance lends enchantment to the view."
Nor is all told yet. Its church interests and successea
are beyond all praise ; especially when we take its mission-
ary operations into account. The churches may be regarded
alphabetically thus : Baptists, 86 ; Congregational, 8; Dutch
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA.' 75
Refonniid,25; Methodist Episcopal, 40; Methodist (various)
24, making 64 ; Presbyterian (Reformed and United), 50 ;
Protestant Episcopal, 56 ; Iloraan Catholic, 35 ; Unitarian,
4; Universalist, 4; Friends, 6; Jews, 16; Lutherans, 10;
Miscellaneous, 15 ; making in all about 830, all in New
York alone. I cannot here go into the statistics of member-
ship in each church, either in the city or through the States,
as my book is not so much one of that class ; but I would
refer to the Rev. James Shaw's admirable work called
" Twelve Years in America " for that purpose, and from
which the above is taken. His information is immense.
An author of another denomination writes thus : " The
Methodist places of worship in New York are among the
most costly and elegant in the land. Among the white
marble and brown stone churches in this city none exceed
the Methodists. Their friends rank among the foremost
merchants, bankers and millionaires. They are found
among the leaders in all the professions. The denomination
move with the order, compactness, and efficiency of an army.
Their book-room is a great power ; from it their bishops
are supported. Their Sunday school literature is unequalled.
Their colleges are governed by men of the first literary
talent ; and their liberality is unbounded."
Christian J^tneficcnrt.
New York is said to be the paradise of preachers ; and
I would also state the paradise of Christian womanhood. In
no part of the world does female benevolence exert a larger
and more silent influence among the churches and the com-
munity, than in New York, especially in striving to elevate
her own sex, which, alas ! affords such an ample sphere, jw
we will see hereafter. With pleasure we quote the follow-
ing:
" Oh^ what makes woman lovely T vlrtae, faith,
And gentleness in suffering, an endurance
Througli scorn and trial ; these call beauty forth
Give it the stamp celestial, and admit it
^ To sisterhood with angels."
Ministers are well supported, and sickness and old age are
also well and wisely anticipated. It abounds in every other
good work as well: they help the footsteps of the travelling
stranger ; rescue the unfortunate Magdalene from the Qh^m*
.■•:^.- ■■:. ':_ _: ,, . . _ _ ,. _....-
76 THE NEW world; or,
bers of death and hell, and place her feet again on the path
of virtue and of peace. They say to the prisoner and the
criminal, " Lift up your head, brother man." They say to
the inebriate, " Sttmd forth, for thou also art a brother and
a man." Their benevolent institutions are scattered like
oases in the midst of a desert of selfishness, incident to the
bustle and progress of a great city. They compassionate
the " bruised reeds " of humanity in the varied forms of
woe ; and may well be regarded by the wise and good as
subjects of richer boast than all the wealth and pomp and
splendour with which the metropolis abounds. We could
have said far more for the sunshine of New York, and will
most likely have occasion to do so again and again, before
we leave finally. A late traveller said, " They are frank,
brave, cordial, hospitable and affectionate. Cultivation and
refinement seem only to enhance their warmth of heart and
ardent enthusiasm ; " and so says the present writer also. . ^
Truth now compels us to look at this side as well as at that.
It is now almost a proverbial expression, that if you want to
find the man nearest to heaven, you must go to New York ;
and, vice versa, if you want to meet the man nearest hell,
you must go there alno. Corruption of morals will be found
in every great city on earth ; but there are some places
where it is more fearfully developed ; and if it thus be so
in New York, it is because it may be regarded as the empo-
rium of all classes and of all nationalities ; and, of course,
where every deed of horror and of vileness peculiar to those
distant lands are allowed to riot, what state of things may
we not expect to find ! In fact, the very greatness of the
country has to suffer this awful penalty for its unbounded
extent and resources : for " where the carcass is, there will
the eagles be gathered together." A late writer states, " A
large portion of New York is a paradise, but a larger portion
is die very opposite, and we have reason to say that a worse
population than that part of it does not inhabit the globe. Th^
base of every nation, the crimes, customs and idolatries of
every country, are here. Portions of the city are abandoned
to the lowest order of the Jews. The Italians herd together
jieftr " Five Points," in a locality not safe to enter at night,
kECElTt VISIT TO AMERICA. J!f
unless guarded by the police. They are dangerous, tiurbu-
lent, stealthy, and defiant. Their very tread is suggestive of
the stiletto ; but there is no locality viler, more repulsive or
more wicked than that occupied by the low French, nor are
the low Irish a whit behind. The Chinese herd together.
They smoke their opium, burn their incense, and worship
their idols as in the cities of the * Celestial Empire.' Where
crime and ignorance are thua allowed to vegetate, what can
we expect but one vast magnitude of vice and woe."
iloiieii Pafeing— gn dnglis^ ^tstr.
A great deal has been said about the money-making and
money-loving habits of the New Yorkers ; but it must also
be said that, as a rule, they are liberal givers ; and, unlike
others, not anxious to leave large fortunes to their children.
The millionaire generally gives back, when making his will,
a large portion of his profits to the institutions of the city
or the town where he made it. The stranger and the poor
are rarely ever forgotten by the rich citizen. The New
Yorker is never known to hide his dollars in old stockings !
or his rollers of gold in hidden pots ! he spreads himself in
trade, extends his wings, builds houses, speculates largely,
scatters his wealth over strange fields, is as anxious to spend
as to make, and to " go ahead " and " right away " at some-
thing. It is true that what some impiously call " The al-
mighty dollar" has a wonderful ascendancy. This is
written on every paving stone along " Fifth Avenue," down
" Broadway," and up " Wall-street." Thes? things may
often have been worshipped ; but I find that the love of
money is not confined to Wall-street, or Broadway, or
Fifth Avenue in New York. Listen to this instance of an
Englishman's love of gold. " When the American Colonies
proclaimed their independence, and prepared to maintain it
by an appeal to arms, there was residing in the City of
London a merchant named Peter Thelluson, who was deter-
mined on rk. J in the world by making all the money he
could. It was a matter of perfect indifference whether King
George or Washinr*<>n conquered, if his markets proved
remunerative ! W.^ was an evil, he thought, when marine
insurances rose high; but it was also a blessing when it
furnished such an opportunity of successful speculation.
THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
Whether right or wrong, ho left to politicians and divines
to settle ; and he went on with his trade of money-making.
He wanted to make a colossal fortune, and that his name
might thereby be honourably transmitted to future genera-
tions. When the war terminated in America, it broke out
in France ; another chance for Peter, now advanced in years ;
and although blood flowed freely, and was a great evil, yet
it was a fine time to make money on the London Exchange.
He had three sons, for whom his affection was growing less
as years advanced; but he increased daily in his wealth.
He had also six grandchildren ; but for them also there was
no room for love. He was now immensely rich, and could
have purchased estates to place him on an equality with the
nobles of the land; but he preferred the money bearing
compound interest; and if allowed to accumulate on for
half a century longer, all his great-grandchildren would
become dukes, and his name would never be forgotten ! A
will was made, by which the whole property was to be
securely invested at his demise, and never to be touched,
either principal or interest, until all his descendants then
living should have left this world 1 The eldest three of his
descendants who should then be living should share his
immense wealth. Soon after the selfish banker died. The
will was dated 1796 ! Great was the consternation when
the will was opened and read. An appeal was made to the
Legislature by his immediate descendants, but all useless.
The will was confirmed ; but with those three words ap-
pended, vanity J iUiherality, and folly/ The property consisted
of £600,000 and an annual income of £4,500. The latest
survivor died in 1856, and new litigation ran away with
most of the funded money ; and what became of the re-
mainder none can tell and who cares." But alas, who inquires
what became of the old man's soul. One is reminded of
Biiiir's description of the rich miser —
" How shocking must thy summons be, Death,
To him that is at ease in his possessions ;
Who, counting on long years of pleasure here,
Is quite anfumishecl for the world to come."
The above sad accoun", is taken from the Rev. Benjamin
Smith's admirable work on " Climbing."
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. ^
Chapter VTM,
■ <ftintinn8li.--" ^t (^mm Citg of i^t SKwl." .
" For me remains no place or time,
My country is in every climo ;
1 can be calm and free from care
On any shore, sincei God is tliere.
" Where'er I dwell I dwell in Thee ;
In heaven or earth or on the sea,
For regions none remote I call,
Secure of finding God in ail."— Madame Quion.
Journey from New York to Cincinnati — Reception and Prayer Meet-
ing at Covington, Kentucky — Two Conversions— The American
War — Abraham Lincoln — Cincinnati — The Father of General
Grant — Preached at Morris Chapel — Bishop Clarke — Bandon
Friends, Mr. Betty, Mr. Gamble, Father Wright— Rev. R. "Wallace,
death and monument — Abraham Hartley Clrish) — Eovival — Mr.
and Mrs. Thomes — Ladies' Pastoral Aid Society — Mr. R. Bailey —
Widow and daughter— The Rev. W. M. Punshon — Miss Grant —
Covington MethodiBt Church — Slavery, Poetry on Liberty.
TUESDAY, December 2nd., 1868— Cmcmnafi.— -I left
New York at 9 o'clock yesterday morning, and tra-
velled both days and all night, and arrived this
evening at 7 o'clock. We passed along the Hudson River
for a considerable distance, the scenery of which is said to
rival the Rhine for beauty. We passed by some, and through
other cities of importance, such as Columbus, Baltimore,
Rome, Pittsburg, Babylon, Lebanon, and Syracuse; also
by beautiful lakes and rivers, generally called by some
Indian name, one signifying " The laughing river." We
passed by the Alleghany Mountains, indeed I might say
through some of them. The majestic scenery of those rocky
mountains are said to vie with the Alps in their towering
height ; very often they reminded me of Connemara scenery
in Ireland, with the exception of the almost interminable
forests ; but as to lakes and islets, and brushwood, and " wilda
immeasurably spread," we might well sympathize with the
6o THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
sentiments which Addison ascribes to Alexander Selkirk or
" Robinson Crusoe " in Juan Fernandez—
" I am out of humanity's reach,
I must flnish my joumey alone ;
Never hear the sweet music of speech,
I start at the sound of my own.'
It is said, there is a very singular lake on the top of one of
those American mountains. It is described lately by Mr. Pil-
cher thus : " It is half a mile in length, and about a quarter
in breadth, without inlet or outlet. It is said to be seventy-five
feet deep, the water cold and clear. It is a great natural cu-
riosity, for it is situated high up among the mountains, not
less than several thousand feet above the sea ; ascending the
peak the traveller is abundantly compensated by one of the
most enchanting views that can be imagined."
When I arrived at Cincinnati I had to cross the splendid
wire- chain bridge which spans the Ohio river ; and on the
other side is Covington, where I was to stop, in Kentucky.
The river separates ihe states.
t^t Citg of Cincinnati.
Cincinnati well deserves the appellation given to it as
" the Queen City of the West." It is the metropolis of the
State of Ohio, and is situated on its banks, and on rising
ground. It is surroimded by well wooded, picturesque hills,
and forms somewhat of a semicircle. The houses and shops
or stores are spacious and well furnished, especially in the
upper parts of the city ; in the lower parts they are not so
attractive. The streets cut each other at right angles, as
most cities in America do ; and of course the buildings thus
formed are called squares, reminding one of Glasgow or
Edinburgh. The public buildings are of a good class,
especially the church buildings; and for inside accommoda-
tion and comfort cannot be excelled. Indeed it is generally
so, both in the States and in Canada, especially those of the
past half century. It cannot be said of them, as it was of
those in the days of Haggai, " Is it time for you, O ye, to
dwell in your ceiled houses, and this house (temple) lie
waste ? " chap. ii. 4. A late correspondent of the Watchman
writes, " The church buildings are of a high class, both as
it regards tlieir architecture and commodiousness : " and of
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. Si
one lately erected, especially, he writes, " Everything is lo
chaste and pure, so perfectly adapted to its purpose, so well
calculated to inspire the idea of pure spiritual devotion and
worship. But of what avail," says he, " are good and beautiful
houses unless they ure filled with true worshippers.''* When I
arrived, I found thf.t the meeting which I was expected to
hold, was commenced by the pastor, Dr. Reilly, in the church
just opposite ; and although pretty weary with a run of
744 miles, yet I felt it my duty to go ; and I was truly
thankful that I did, for two respectable individuals found
peace at that meeting, which gave us all great cause of grati-
tude to God. The hospitalities of my kind host and hostess
were nothing the less relished by the delay ; we enjoyed
them " with gladness and singleness of heart." Just close
by, is one of the Kentucky battlefields : and oh, what a war I
Here I may say in regard to that war, that it was in-
evitable on the part of the North, inasmuch as the South
resolved on separation, in order to perpetuate slavery; and
whether England acted right or wrong in her neutrality,
I'll not ay ; but she is greatly blamed for her willingness
80 proi-iptly to recognise the belligerent rights of the
South, if victorious. The tone of her press, and of many
of her people, especially her merchants, was, I must say,
anything but creditable ; but now that all is over, I trust
that all international bitterness will be for ever done away,
between the States and England. It is likely retribution
fell where it was richly deserved ! Nations and communities
which do wrong are punished in this world, inasmuch as
such, collectively, cannot be so in the next. The following
Unes on Lincoln's Christian name (Abrahain) were suggested
by the coincidence between it and Abraham, " the Father
of the Faithful,"—
"Not more gloriously, did ^ftraftom
Rescue Lot (ind aU hla host
From the kings who had assailed blm.
On Asabia's rugged coast,
Than did Abra}iam Ldncoln rescue
Man from slavery and woe ;
While the God of Battles emptied
All his vials on the foe."
Thursday y Srd DecerrJter.— -Met at dinner to-day, in my
nephew's house, Mr. and Mrs. Grant, and Miss Grant, father,
iV THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
mother and Bister to General Grant, the President elect;
also several pastors and Presiding Elders, all to meet the
stranger from Ireland. I preached at Morris's Church in
the evening. 1 had Bishop Clarke as one of my hearers,
and a number of ministers. I found a prepared people in
a prepared place. The bishop prayed with great power ;
and he and other ministers came forward, to seek a deeper
work of sanctifying grace. He has written a very important
work of near 600 pages on " Death-bed Scenes of those
dying with, and those dying without. Religion," 171 of the
former and 63 of the latter. It is surely " sunshine and
shadow" designed, as he says, '* to illustrate the truth and
power of Christianity." It was in this very chapel in which
I preached to-night, that the lamented and immortal Robert
Wallace was to have preached on the very Sabbath morning
on which his sanctified spirit took flight to
" The city so Joly and clean ;
No sorrov can breathe in the air,
No gloom of affliction or sin,
No shadow of evil is there."
What solemn thoughts crossed my mind. I little thought,
when tidings ci the mournful event reached Ireland,
that I would be preaching in that pulpit two years after.
Such are the mysteries of Providence, and of grace also.
Here I met gome old friends from the Bandon Circuit, whom
I knew thirty-eight years ago ; they alluded to the time of
their conversion ; and now, they told me some of the advice
I gave them at that time. We had a very hallowed season to-
night ; souls were saved.
Friday, ^th December. — Called to see the Betty and
Gamble families ; they are from the neighbourhood of
Enniskillen, all well to do for both worlds. I also met the
venerable Father Wright, who interested himself so much
in behalf of the monumental pillar of Mr. Wallace, and the
getting up of its photograph. He is called " The Evangelist,"
and is in his 74th year, yet hale and healthy and happy !
In the evening I preached in Trinity Church, on 1 Peter iii.
15, " Be ready always to give an answer to every man that
asketh you, a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness
and fear." The speaking at the fellowship meeting after,
exceeded all I witnessed in America for promptitude ; per-
RECENT VISIl TO AM2R1CA. 83
t)Aps not Irrs than a dozen of the first clafls men in the
dmrch gpoko ir. as many miniituB, and the theme woh
•' holiiiesH," from beginning to end. Forty years ago thoro
were but two Methodist Cliurches in the City of Cincinnati,
now there nro 23 ; and some of them very costly ; but the
proaperitjf of Methodism is its chief element of danger ! Its
growth, and the complication of its machinery, occasioned
by the immensity of its resources and wealth, require the
greatest vigilance. Incentives to ministerial ambition are
great and numerous. Its safety, under God, depends on its
pastors ; and these can only avert its declension by seeking
constant purity of heart and life themselves. If this be done,
and the doctrine of Scriptural truth maintained in the pulpit,
and discipline in the pew, the original purit/ of the ministers
and of the body will be maintained, and Tiethodism will be
honoured as the principal agency in the world's conversion.
Saturday, 5th, — Accompanied by a few friends, I visited
Cummingsville Cemetery. It is also called " The Methodist
Ceiivitery," because of its being their principal burial place.
I gazed again and again on the " Wallace monument." The
involuntary emotion rose, and I asked, " And is it so ? '' my own
personal friend and the brother in whose pulpit I preached
in Dublin a short time before he left for America. He was
one of my hearers, and laboured with me ardently at the
after prayer- meeting in directing penitents to Jesus. No
spot could be more suitably selected, as far as the surround-
ing landscape and picturesque scenery are concerned ; un-
dulating soil, cultivated planting, and the mansions of the
rich nestling in the distant slopes on either side. The fol-
lowing lines bespoke my feelings —
" Let me with tears bedew • >.
The dust where Wallace lies ;
Let me behold his spirit too
Now basking in the skies." ^
And surely here " Nature unreproved may drop the tear."
I said, Farewell, dear Brother Wallace, for a season ; we will
soon meet again. It was no wonder that a splendid poem was
written by an Irish sister on Brother Walluce, and presented
at the Bazaar on the opening of the College at Belfast ; and
no wonder that the grateful tribute of a scholarship was
secure^ to the College, as a toUcu of love for bis memory,
84 THB NEW WORLD; OK,
by the gratnftil offerings of hiN drnr friendi in Ireland. The
following is one of the MtiinznR of the i>o<>Tn— >
" I>e»r noble WalUm • HIn work In o'er ;
Htx vnico WM liiiKhml <in % illntiint »hon :
Kilt hid tinm« KhnI) ntrrr forgotten )m,
TJs cimhrlnnfl In our lovlnir niemorr ;
And within tlicxu wnllit It mIiaII Htllf be he»nl,
A cherltiied nuund, a fftnilll«r word"
His last words were, " I leave all in the hands of Jemis."
And 80 well ho might. Wo then drove to " Spring Grove
Cemetery," or \ of the largest I ever beheld. It is said to
contain 400 acres and has the most commanding view on all
sides. The most affecting object of attraction is " the military
mound." Multitudes, slain on the battlefield of patriotism,
sleep there. It is in the form of a cone, and the graves rise
all round to the top. They fell in behalf of glorious
freedom's right, and to avenge long aggravated human
wrong. It is said that one hundred thousand adherents of
Methodism fell, and no less than 300 of its ministers (Church
North) had to take up arms 1 one whole regiment was com-
posed altogether of Methodists, and officered by Methodist
preachers ! President Lincoln was heard to say, again and
again, that the freedom of the slave would never have been
obtained but for the Methodists of the Northern States. I
then visited the grave of Abraham Hartley, nephew by law,
but son in the Gospel, and eldest son to Mrs. Hartley, near
Cavan, who lately passed away to meet him in the skies.
His two dear little ones lie in the same lot, and on their stone
are inscribed the following lines: —
" So fades earth's loveliest flowers and die,
While those less fair still greet the eye."
A more devoted spirit than Abraham Hartley could not be
easily found, either in Europe or America. He was an
ornament to both. His devoted widow still lives in Cincin-
nati to mourn his loss. His two cousins accompanied me
on this occasion. It was a day for solemnity and prayer.
Sabbath, 6th December. — Before I preached in Morris
Chapel this morning I visited the splendid Sabbath school ;
the business of teaching was closed in a moment, and I gave a
short address. They strongly urged me to renew my visit.
Preached at 11 o'clock ; congregation remarkably large.
Jii8ho|) Clarke clQsed with praj'er. Jti wa§ a tiipe flevey tQ
ll»?CRMT VISIT TO AMBRirA. ^5
tiA forgotten. No doubt if angolic iitiiritii uro i»aritiittc'<l to
ynn in tho oMfltnhlioH of the Cliiirrh on earth, they wore
lurely among \i» thifl morning, eRpecially " the Npirita of the
ju»t made perfect." Of the former we may nay—
" lint »ll fonr he«rr<n. f n n^nrionn powan,
And »U jrour Uod In doiibl/ our* "
I tliought of the sainted and glorified Wallace. And here
ngain, let me pause, and |)onder on life's uncertainty. Our
dear Brother Grant, the friend, the colleague, and I might
almost BJiy, tho son of tho gifted Wallace, the Kov. C. L.
Grant, then in the zenith of usefulness and popularity in
Cork, has just lately passed away to greet, and to b^ greeted
by his honoured friend. lie Wits tho first condoler of Mr.
Wallace's widow on her arrival at Queenstown from America,
and well in turn she paid it back, by her constant care of
him on his death-bed.
" O happy they who reacli that shore,
Where sorrow cometh never ;
Who rest within Christ's loving arras,
For ever and for ever. "
At three o'clock p.m. same day, I preached in Union
Church, at Covington, and had a large attendance, considering
the unfavourable hour. The pastor, Dr. Keilly, and a Pre-
siding Elder cordially assisted ; and we all rejoiced, in the joy
of those who received good at, the hand of the Lord. We
were all baptized afresh. Called and prayed with Mr. and
Mrs. Grant, and earnestly prayed for their distinguished and
highly honoured son, who is to be inaugurated in March.
The old couple are very feeble, but very familiar and kind.
In the evening I preached in Wealey Church ; the excite-
ment was not as great as in the morning and afternoon.
Monday, 7th. — Visited the Methodist Book Room, and
also attended the ministers' weekly meeting, just then going
on overhead. I was immediately called on to speak. The
usual business was suspended, when the kindest marks of
fraternal love were offered, which I reciprocated as well as
I could. I gave them my best views of promoting a genuine
revival of God's work, to which they heartily responded. I
congratulated them on their fraternal sympathy, and said
that we have something like those meetings in a few places in
Ireland, such as Dublin and Belfast. Spent part of the day
fi6 TMR WBW WORLD ; 0«,
wifli Mr. iW'tty nml family, wh'» )m<\ tli#« \<fnAiif nf M^ffld
< hurch, thn lU;v. Mr. M'Kitch'tm, Ut inort m«. !!« wimi a
chftplain in thn nrmy, nnrl gav<i mn wcmderful occounto of
the war. Wf» niny «ny
" lUtMlllnti, foul ilUlidiKtnrinK word
WhoMt wronirfMl I'Uht lo of* »m *tnln«d
Thn hrtllnot MtKw thnt toiiirnn or aword
Of mnrt«l nrnr lout or gklned.
How muny » *\Mi liorn to M<<hm
IUk mink iM.ieath tlint wltherhiK nUM j
Whom hilt a lUy'n iin honr'w micceti
llvl wnftetl to Hternftl fame."
In the ovouing I was uccompani«(] by Mr. Betty to York
Street, whore I had engaged to meet the preniding Rider,
and afwist him at his quarterly Lovo Feast. His duty is to
visit the churches. On Saturday he meets the ofHcial mem-
bers of the church, hears any complaint, and listens to any
new suggestion for the improvement of the church. The
decision of the meetinir {« final, as far as the members are
concerned, but a minister may appeal. The Bishop then
decides, unless in case of expulsion, which is reserved for
Conference. " The Elder " always preaches on the Sabbath,
and holds the Love Feast on Monday evening, after which
the past*, r reads an account of the whole state of the church
for the quarter, — membership, spiritual conditions, finances,
declension or increase. The Elder gave a short address,
and I did the same, and held the prayer meeting. About
eighty came forward at once, seeking varied blessings.
Many professed to be saved with a full salvation ; and we
renewed the speaking. Many spoke the second time. The
Elder said that the sense of the Divine presence was great,
and the feeling altogether unearthly. He is a very devoted
man of God, and rejoiced exceedingly.
Tuesday, 8th. — Accompanied Mr. M'Kitchum to dine at
Mr. Thome's, who is one of our most hospitable and well-
oflE friends in Cincinnati. Mrs. Thorne is a member of
" The Ladies' Pastoral Aid Society." It is designed to assist
the pastor in visiting the sick, assisting the poor, and col-
lecting funds for the pastor's salary, and for missions, &c.
Mrs. Clarke, wife to Bishop Clarke, prer,ided. When I came
in, she moved that I should speak. The ladies rose with
great courtesy to give me a reception. I told them of the
Ladies' Society in London, for the amelioration of the women
T VllIT TO AMERICA. Wf
of Inflla ; tAm of Moffi^vr'n M*»Hilnffii, TIIW*« Wj^miim, Ae.
Tlifl lout they rli«l not r«r|uirn, tm t}iey ail u)ii>«<nr to bt
Hible Wmnsfi. How well will it hr, if nt laitt fiin Mwrtw
nhnll mj of nach, " Hhe hath done whftt Nhn could." I b«-
liove their ftgfnry will ttill miKhtily. In the evening I
preached in Clirifitio (Jhtif>el, to which Mr. Gamble led nie.
Thii Oamblo family never forget their Iriiih antecedents.
I'he congregation wan very large, the ringing waa thrilling,
and we had iiohle te«itimonicfi for Jentifi. It wan aa the gate
ot .' «3iiven.
Wedntaday^ 'Jth. — Visited a family of the name of Kuttle,
whom I knew in Traico yc-ars ago. The wife said, '* I \)e-
lievfe the Lord sent you all the way from Iroland to witness
my husband's conversion. Ho was one of the two made
happy on the first night you arrived here." He continues
huj)py still. Ho might remind one of the man who said at
a Love Feast, '* The Lord has got full possession of my
heart; and if any of you doubt it, you may a'lk my wife."
She was the widow of Mr. Kobert Hailey, son to the Rev.
R. Bailey, for many years one of our devoted ministers in
Ireland. This Mr. Bailey I met in Tralee twenty-four years
ago. He died in New York some years after, and left one
daughter, now an interesting girl, who fears God. Dr. Wiley,
Editor of the Ladies' Magazine, handed me the December
number, which contains a sketch of the Rev. W. M. Pun-
shon, and which is also adorned with his portrait. The
article in the paper says, " His advent to thia vtountry
(America) met with a befitting welcome, and his debut before
the General Conference in Chicago equalled and surpassed
all expectations. The hall was crowded to fulness. He
(Mr. P.) sat on the platform wriggling his well gaitered foot,
and his ungloved hand, while the preliminary of reading the
Address from the English Conference was going forward.
When this was through, he stood before the body : the blood
which had been agitating his extremities began to move in swift
and even pulses through his stalwart form. A large framed
man, even for an Englishman. His averdupois does not
overbalance the equipoise by its bulk ; his face is large and
brown and full ; eyes bright, but hidden ; a sort of clear
obscure f ace,not entirely submitted to the razor,nor shaved after
the British shoulder of mutton fashion, but with a thinnish
88 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
f uzziness o£ beard running under and around. His manners
are easy and self-controlled ; his voice pleasant and manage-
able ; his words well and aptly chosen. The Times (Londo">
is his model more than any great Er ^Ush preacher. H
copies his ornate semi-epigrammatic sty.o of the Thunderer
of Printing-house Square. Neither Gumming, nor Spurgeon,
nor Stanley, nor Robertson, nor Guthrie nor Arthur emulates
the most popular of English styles of composition. Punshon
alone of orators has learned well its elaborate touch. His
finished periods drop from his lips one by one, hot, rapid,
rounded. They were apples of gold in pictures of silver.
Never did we hear the best lines of God (Scripture) more
perfectly wrought into the best lines of man."
This evening, Wednesday, Wi December, I met Miss
Grant again in company, sister to the President elect. She
met with a slight accident in attending to some domestic
duty in the course of the day. *• See," said our host hu-
mourously, " there's a pattern for your Irish and English
ladies, the sister of the greatest man on the Continent (I
think he said in the world) not above attending to her domes-
tic duties." She is very affable and communicative, and
seemed ambitious to enliven the conversation by familiar
parlance. I understand she was since very happily married.
Preached in Union Chapel, Covington, Kentucky, to-night.
I began my week's labours during this visit in that beautiful
house on this night week. The Irish were the most hearty
in loud Amens. In this State, slavery formerly prevailed,
now, a " thing smong the things that were, and a thing which
never should have been." Sweet liberty ! Eejoice ye hea-
vens the slave is free.
"Oh Libbrty! thou power supremely bright,
Profuse of bliss, and pregnant with delight;
Perpetual pleasures in thy presence reign,
And smiling plenty leads thy wanton train;
This Liberty now crowns Columl ia's Isle,
And makes her vales and all her mountains smile.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. %$
CJapter FM$.
^^ilabdp^ia — i^e Quaker Cilg. .
" For the structures which we raise,
Time is with materials filled ;
Our to-days and yesterdays
Are the blocks with which we build.
Truly shape and fashion these
Leave no yawning gap between ;
. ^ Think not, because no man sees
Such things will remain unseen."
Philadelphia — William Penn — Conversion to Quakerism in Cork —
Father's Conversion — Leaves Cincinnati — Journey — Book Boom
in Philadelphia — Meeting fcr Holiness — Rev. Mr. Atwood — St.
Paul's M. E. Church— Camp Meeting — Singular Case of Conver-
sion — Smart Answers — Total Abstinence — Wine Question — " Me-
thodist Home " — Poem of Moore, the Irish Bard —Captain Thomas
Webb, and the spread of Methodism in all the States.
Si^e Citg — Mm- ^enn's €anbtimn to (S^oakerism.
FRIDAY, December 17th, 1868.— I am in Philadel-
phia ! the Quaker City, the metropolis of the State
of Pennsylvania, aiid the second city in the Union.
What a touching word, expressive of so much historic asso-
ciation, and reminding one of the greatest names vrhich grace
the history of America. Who has not heard of Penn and of
Franklin? This city was founded by the former in 1682
on a spot of which he said, " Of all places in the world I .
remember not one better seated." Its thrilling acts of
loyalty, its religious and benevolent institutions, its disinte-
rested patriotism, its mercantile enterprise and its railway
explorations, will make this part of America to stand out
in bold relief for ages to come. It is worthy of remark that
William Penn was converted to Quakerism in the City of
Cork, Ireland, and under the following circumstances : It
appears his father, Avho was a great Admiral and a High
Chmrchman, sent William to Oxford ; but after some time
he heard that the lad was becoming rather religiously serious,
through one Thomas Loe, a Quaker, whom he heard in
Oxford. He sent for William, and ordered him ofiE at once to
^ ;■■' Yh£ new WORLD; OR,
France, in order to avert his religious change, and which had
the desired effect for the time being. On his return, the
plague broke out in London, and the serious mootl returned
on the young count, and to the great alarm of his father.
He then sent him as a military man to Ireland, as he thought
that wild country would surely put an end to his religious
and his Quaker tendencies; but it so happened that the
Quakers were increasing at that time in the chief cities of
Ireland ; and one day Penn sti'oUed into their meeting house
in Cork, and to his surprise, who rose to speak but Thomas
Loe from Oxford, and gave out for his text, or for a subject
of remarks, 1 John v. 4, " This is the victory that over-
cometh the world, even our faith." From that day Penn
became a thorough Quaker, and decided for God. His
father heard of his relapse with great alarm and dismay, and
ordered him back to London ; and after a long and painful
discussion, in which the son was firm to his purpose, the
Admiral turned him out of doors ; but he was reconciled to
him afterwards, and his last words to his son were, '* Son
William, if you and your friends keep to your plain way of
preaching and living, you will make an end to the priests
to the end of the world."
losrrteg from Cincinnati to ^l^ilabelp^ia.
At seven o'clock am. yesterday, I started from Covington,
near Cincinnati to this <*.ity, a distance of some 600 miles ;
and travelled all yesteroay and last night, and in thorough
" go ahead " speed, by quick train, and arrived about ten
o'clock a.m. to-day. 1 was pleased to meet an old Methodist
' from this city in the train, with whom I held pleasing con-
versation nearly all the way through, and also, an old
Presbyterian gentleman, to whose little granddaughter I
paid some religious attention, in pointing out the advantage
of early piety, and how it bears on age. All at once, the
old gentleman repeated the following lines of Dr. Watts : —
"Beholdl the man of threescore years and ten
Upon his dying bed,
Has run his race and got no grace
An awful sight indeed.
Poor man, he lies in sore suspense,
And thus he doth complain :
No grace I've got. and I cannot
Ilecal my time again."
We then conversed very freely about this great country, its
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA.
religion, its crimes, its transition state, its responsibilities, its
enterprise and its resources, &c. I met another gentleman
and formerly a Presbyterian from Londonderry, Ireland,
but who goes nowhere now. Alas, this I fear is the case
with many who come to this New World, they leave
their old religion behind them, and often as freely as they
did the old " Homestead," at least in this instance religion
has become a secondary consideration. I was received in
the city by a well-to-do niece of mine, and also by an old
friend from the first Circuit I travelled in Ireland. In the
course of the day he conducted me to the Book-room,
where I heard that there was to be a meeting for " Holiness,"
and to be conducted in one of the rooms overhead ; and that
it would begin immediately.
pMthtg for fflUntgs.
Accordingly I remained, and met a good number of devout
looking people, principally females. I hear Dr. and Mrs.
Palmer had a good deal to do with the origin of this meeting.
The good Brother who opened the meeting said, he soughU
found, rejoiced in^ and retained this heavenly treasure of
holiness, and encouraged all to seek its higher attainments.
A note was handed to me to speak. I would as soon be
taught in this school as teach, but there was no alternative ;
I spoke of its nature, its necessity, its attainableness, and its
advantages and its growth, together with its varied compati-
bilities, such as trials, temptations, errors in judgment, and
many infirmities ; that I did not care so much about high and
great sounding words, but simply to get the heart filled with
love, and grow in it ! and that the command is imperative,
" Thou shah love the Lord thy God with aU thy heart,' &c.
From this there is no discharge, and all is to be had by the
exercise of an unwavering trust in the atoning blood. We
had a soul-hallowing time, and our united language seemed
to be
" Scatter thy life through every part,
And aanotlfy the whole."
In the evening I called on the Rev. Mr. Atwood, whom
I found to be in great grief by reason of the sudden death
THE NEW world; OR,
of his youngest sou by the bursting of a blood vessel ; he
was a pious young man, and only very Jately married. " Oh,"
said the devoted father, " there was mercy after all mingled
with the stroke, for he was best prepared to go." I held a
prayer meeting that evening in his church ; and oh, how the
good brethren can sing, both correct and quick, quite in
character with their country, or as the pastor said, " scarcely
waiting for the boat to be unchained before they spring on
shore, even should they fall in ; which," said he, " is often the
case." A lamentable case occurred at Brooklyn shortly after,
and my young friend Myles was a moment late, and thereby
saved his life. They have several expressions for quickness,
such as, " go ahead " as some say " even if the boiler should
burst," or as poor Pat would say, " I'll be there, if I should
die by the way ;" but one of the most familiar in common
parlance, is " right away." Dickens tells us in his " Ame-
rican Notes of Travel " that he was very near losing his
dinner by misunderstanding this expression : he called for
dinner at a hotel in New York after he landed, and the
waiter asked, "right away?" meaning was it "at once."
The traveller understood him to mean that he should go
" right away " to another apartment, and he answered " No."
The waiter looked bewildered, and did not know what to
do, until a gentleman present, observing the mistake, said to
Dickens, " It means ' directly,' " and told the waiter accord-
ingly, who looked strangely at the stranger, saying, " Well
that's a fact, right away." Although I was rather tired
after travelling over 600 miles, and engaging in the services
alluded to, yet I felt it my duty to call on the pastor as I said.
** Your coming is so providential," said he, " for I am utterly
unable to conduct the services on the Sabbath. Will you
kindly take them for me ? " I consented at once ; he
expected me the week before, but a derangement in the
plan prevented. I then saw that all was right, both for him
and me, although it cost me a large amount of cross travel-
ling. How applicable are the following lines : —
" Leave to His sovereign sway
To choose and to command ;
So Shalt thou wondering own His way,
How wise, how strung His hand.
Far, far above thj- thought,
His counsel shall appear,
Whenf ully He the work had wrought,
That caused thy nesdleHs fear."
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 93
Saturday ^ l^th, — Attended a missionary prayer meeting,
which was conducted by the Philadelphia " Praying Band,"
and they did pray in right good earnest. Some of them are
Irish ; they have formed a new mission in a Roman Catholic
part of the city, and I found that all the difficulties of such
enterprises are not confined to Ireland ; but those men " of
faith and prayer " go ahead " through evil and through good
report ; " and contend earnestly (not violently) for the faith
once delivered to the saints ; still they have to " endure hard-
ness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ." .
Sabbath, I3th December, 1868. — Preached in this beauti-
ful Church of St. Paul's, first attending and addressing the
Sabbath School, which was well attended. Before the ser-
mon a lay brother gave out the announcements from the
desk, which I thought a great improvement, then the col-
lection. I was then formally introduced as the preacher,
and from Ireland. We had an odd hallelujah in rather a
robust tone. It would remind one of the days of Ezra, of
which it is said, " And all the congregation answered and
said, with a !oud voice, As thou hast said so will we do."—
Ezra X. 12. At 3 o'clock, p.m., a large congregation as-
sembled for the quarterly Love Feast ; the presiding Elder
was to be present^ but was imwell, so I had to conduct it.
The speaking was pretty free and short. Some statements
were very racy. One poor fellow said, " I was so far gone
in drunkenness that no one would think of picking me up
out of the sink, but Jesus did not think it beneath Him to
do so." Another said, " I am resolved to measure my steps,
so as to fall in with those of Christ's ; and I'll soon be with
Him." Another said, " By the grace of God, I can run
through a troop, and by my God I can leap over a wall."
He performed great exploits in the late war, amidst shot and
shell, and came off unscathed ! I hear that from no place
in the Union did they go out to war so freely as from thia
rallying point. The cry night and day was, " To the camp ! "
just as now (2lBt July, 1870) on our own continent, " To
the lihiue ! " but alas, a ^Iff^r^ut w^fare, Brother D^urdis^
THE NEW world; OR,
■who was converted to God on my first Circuit in Ireland,
went off for two years as a chaplain, to pray with the sick
and dying, and to distribute tracts, &c., without a cent !
A sister of the late Hugh Moore was at the Love Feast, and
several from Ireland : indeed they are the best attendants.
I meet them everywhere, esp -icially at Class and Love Feast
Meetings. After the Love Feast the pastor stood up and
said, "As there are some here who intend to join the Church,
let them come forward now." Somefouror fivedidso; andhe
then proposed some very important questions as to their
f belief of our doctrines and as to their experience, which
they answered satisfactorily ; and before he commended thera
to God in prayer, he pronounced them members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. It was a novel mode to me,
. but very solemn. Class Meeting was not absolute, as test
' of membership, which I regret ; for from the beginning it
was not so, at least in our country. The evening attendance
% was very large, perhaps on account of the novelty of hearing
"the Irish Missionary." Nearly all remained for the
^ Prayer Meeting, which was a time of great power. The
pastor, who was himself " a District Elder " for years, gives
Irishmen great credit for adaptability to the various positions
in which they may be placed. " Bishop Wnugh," said he,
" stated, that the Irish nation was a nation of national
orators." I said, " Perhaps sometimes a little too much in
that line, for there are limits to liberty of speech however
fine, as well as to liberty of action." But I find that Ameri-
cans can sometimes compete with the Irish either in repar-
tee, wit, or fluency. I said to the conductor of the rail car,
coming from Cincinnati last Friday, " I find the water is
out, what shall we do ? " ** Do, sir ! " said he ; " the best
thing you can do, is to do without." 1 guessed that was
" cold comfort !" At another station, I lost sight of the rail
carriage I travelled in ; it was shunted round, and I said to
one of the attendants on the platform, " I can't find the car
I travelled in; what shall I do ? " " Do, sir ! " said he ; " if you
had kept in, you would not have been out." A traveller in
this country would require to have the eyes of Argus open if he
had them ! or at least like the Indian chief, who said he had
often to sleep with only one eye shut. I had a hallowed
Sabbath of some eight hours in the bouse of the Lord; thia
* RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 95
was my first Sabbath in Philadelphia; and all was in
character with those lines— ^
" How beautiful and fair, the sunny Pabbath hours,
Refresh, revive, regale like fra^'iance of the flowers ;
Like visioned ladder once to Jacob given.
From heaven descending, laading back to heaven."
tSSiint (|ttcstio«.
Monday, 1 4 — "Visited the Book-room again to-day, this being
the rallying point for all ministers to meet, and there, there is
a suitable class of rooms for all the purposes of Church meet-
ings. It was the Weekly Preachers' Meeting. Here I found
a brother warmly debating and combating the views of
another brother on scriptural alcoholic wines, and proved,
at least to his own satisfaction, that the wine which our
Lord made was intoxicating. I thought if Brother Pearson
from Ireland was there, the debate would not have ended so
soon. He would break a lance over the sweet uninebriating
o/yoj (wine). Some are never more intemperate than when de-
fending temperance, especially the teetotal principle. All
I can say is, that I think they are " about right," as they
Bay here, at least in practice ; and I must say, also, as far as
the principle of expediency is concerned, they are triumphantly
so. I was then introduced to the meeting by Mr. Atwood,
pastor of St. Paul's, when I found some other wine to mix for
the company. I said, that I thought it was a pity to spend
so much time and talent on such a questionable subject, or of
such little importance, at least comparatively. I thought
the prosperity and extension of the work of God should be
the grand theme, when so many brethren meet together ; and
if such powers of eloquence as we heard this morning could
be turned into an evangelical channel, what a flowing foun-
tain would we have of the water of life, for the perishing
multitudes around, to partake of. The tide was at once
turned ! I was then conducted to " the Historical Rooms,"
where I saw a great and rich variety of Methodistic antiqui-
ties. There are the old spectacles of Mrs. Bennis of Lime-
rick, one of Mr. Wesley's correspondents. I saw her grand-
son and grand-daughter in the Methodist Home, near the
city. In the historic room there is now a fac simile^ in
miniature, of the first Methodist Church ia Maryland. It
^6 THE NEW world; OR, ^
was called " The Log Meeting House," and might be called
" The Cathedral of the Backwoods," and Strawbridge might
surely be honoured (if an honour he would consider it) by the
appellation of " the Bishop of this new diocese," for he had
virgin soil to cultivate. I must allow Dr. William Crook,
Dr. Stephens, and Wakely to settle the matter with Dr.
Hamilton and Roberts as to the priority of Embury's New
York Church, to Strawbridge's Log House in Maryland 1
%ahttt Stiafebribge.
Surely we will say of this intrepid evangelist that his name
does not express his character, for he was not straw but granite
every " inch, a true Nehemiah : he led the van in Maryland ;
he did not require to be pushed on. He was generous,
energetic, fiery and versatile, independent and impatient of
formal restraint, and " cared more to save souls than even to
provide for his own household." He was a truly noble evan-
gelist or General Missionary of the Irish Graham and Ouseley
type. He was "in journeyings oft" through Maryland,
Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Northern Virginia ; and drew
multitudes to his rustic meetings ; large numbers of whom
were soon converted, and in many instances these became
preachers, who distinguished themselves in Methodism.
Strawbridge was literally a flame of fire ; he was the spiri-
tual father of the first native preacher in America, Idichard ^
Owen, and now the father and the son lie together in the
same grave in Longgreen, in Baltimore County. He was
far ahead of Asbury, in regard to the administration of the
Sacraments ; nor could he brook his authority in this par-
ticular, believing that those to whom God commits the
ministration of his word, ought to possess the power of
conveying its emblems. In a word, he was eloquent, a
sweet singer, a good expositor, social, and devoutly religious.
If contrasted at all with Embury, we would say, he was the
Luther, and Embury the Melancthon. I preached in the
evening in St. Paul's. Many were deeply affected, almost
prostrate. Indeed one would have been called " a stricken
case," in Ireland. I had some presentiment of something -
more than ordinary ; and according to faith, and I might
say, far beyond, it was done unto us. The pastor was in
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 97
high state of godly ecstacy ; thus, was he sustained after a
heavy bereavement. " The Lord giveth songs in the night.'*
Tuesday^ Ibth. — Met Messrs. James Long and William
Devine, both Irish. Wm. M'Arthur, Esq., requested me to
see those gentlemen, who were so liberal to Ireland, when
he and Dr. Scott were here. They brought me in a car-
riage to see '* the Old Methodist Home," which is occupied
with old men and women of undoubted piety. The inmates
were all gathered by the matron, Mrs. Scott, who took a
great interest in my visit. I sung and prayed, and we had
a very happy time together. Mr. Devine seemed to be
much affected. All the inmates appear to be well minded !
We are almost afraid of anything of this kind in Ireland,
for fear of encouraging pauperism. We have one Widows'
House in Dublin. I was then driven to Spring (Jarden-
Btreet, to attend a meeting for " holiness " at Mrs. Kane's.
There I found a large gathering, of the lay and clerical
element. Many testimonies were borne to its enjoyment.
One sister rose and said, " I have completely renoimced
self, and I can rest in the full will of God, and it saves me
a great deal of trouble, for I can see God in everything.''
I had to repair to St. Paul's again, where the revival
still goes on very blessedly. I preached and held a revival
prayer meeting; Brother Salter accompanied me. He is
carried to a Belfast lady, and very comfortable ; her parents
live with them, and were very attentive to ma In the
course of the day, when I called at the Book-room, I met
a spouting controversialist. " I called here," said he, " to
convert one of the young men in this store.'* " Did you
ask him," said I, " was he ever bom again ? " " Oh," said he,
" that is not necessary ; for that takes place in baptism.**
" But our Lord did not speak to a child when he said * except
a man be born again,* &c. ; he was speaking to a person of
maturity." I thought of the old Jewish agents, who com-
passed sea and land to make a proselyte ; and, I fear those
who do so now in this way, secure the same results as formerly.
Wednesday ^ lUh. — A very wet day ; but I suppose it is
all right. It reminds me of die good man who was accosted
by a neighbour saying, " That's a fine day, sir." " Oh, sir,"
7
98 THE NEW world; OR,
said lihe other, " thank God, I never saw anything else but
a fine day." " How so ? " said the other. " Why," said he,
" sure it must be fine when it is as God wills it." " But
Buppose," said he, " it was God's will to send you to hell,
what would you say ? " " Why," said ho, *' I would say it
was his will, and I would go." "And how would you do ? "
said the other, " Why," said he, " he has given me two
strong arms, faith and love, and I would take hold of him,
and bring him with me, and it would bo no hell to me while
he was with me there," justifying the lines —
" While blessed with a sense of his love,
• ! A palace a toy would appear ;
And prisons would palaces prove,
If Jesus would dweU with me thera" >./
^nxtbdi ^iiii to Pr. ^tfaoob.
After the meeting to-night I called to bid Mr. Atwood
and his afiiicted wife and daughter-in law farewell. I found
the two latter greatly crushed in spirit. Oh, what a heavy
trial ! Such a promising young man, and rising in his
profession, that of a doctor, to be called off in a moment,
was surely a dark and an alarming event. He repeated that
hymn composed by our countryman, Thomas Moore, and
found in their Hymn Book, I give the three following stanzas
as a specimen.
" But Christ can heal the broken heart,
Which, like the plants that throw
Their fragrance from the wounded part,
Breathes sweetness out of woe.
O who could bear life's stormy doom,
Did not his wing of love
Come brightly wafting through the gloom,
Our Peace Branch from above.
Then sorrow, touched by Him grows bright,
With more than rapture's ray ;
As darkness shows us worlds of light
We never saw by day."
^^t Introbnclion of pet^obbm into ^^labelp^a. —
(8)a{ltam Witbh.
I cannot close this chapter without referring to the intro-
duction of Methodism into Philadelphia about one hun-
dred years ago, by Captain Webb, who, like Embury in
New York, hired a " sail loft," and commenced to preach;
BO that when Pilmoor, one of the two preachers Wesley sent
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. f^
out, arrived, he found one hundredmembersof Society already
gathered as a Church. In a year after (1770) the So-
ciety purchased a house of worship, well known as " Old
St. George's," the Mother Church of Methodism there. So
that now Methodism has more churches in the city, and a
larger membership than any other denomination. The fol-
lowing sketch will be gratifying. " Webb was at the taking
of Quebec, as an officer in the British army, when he lost an
eye, and received a wound in the arm. After returning to
England, he heard Mr. Wesley preach in Bristol, he was
truly converted, and appointed shortly after to preach
locally. He was sent out by the Government as barrack-
master to Albany, and there heard of the little Society at
New York ; and one day, when the Methodist company were
assembled in their crowded room, listening to Embury, a stran-
ger appeared among them in scarlet uniform as an officer of
the King's army. All eyes were upon him, and they looked
at each other significantly, whether he was for or against
them ; but when they saw him kneel when they knelt, and
sing when they sang, their fears vanished, as did those of
Ananias, when he was told of Saul, " Behold he prayeth."
This was Captain Thomas Webb, a local preacher, of whom
Wesley said, " He is a man of fire." He used to preach in his
regimentals, and lay his sword on the table. All saw at once
the warrior in his face, and heard the evangelist in his voice,
under which they trembled, wept, and fell. To this hal-
lowed work he forthwith consecrated all his time, his talents,
and his means ; and became one of the most popular mis-
sionaries of the day. President John Adams heard him in
Philadelphia, and said " The old soldier is one of the most
eloquent preachers I ever heard." Thus were four local
preachers raised up to revolutionize all America, and just
at a time when the six states of New England had established
a puritanical Congregationalism. Pennsylvania and New
Jersey were occupied by Quakers and Presbyterians, Dela-
ware by the Swedes, Maryland principally by Roman Ca-
tholics, Virginia by the Church of England, and Rhode
Island principally by Baptists, while the Colonies further
south were composed of Huguenots, Moravians and others.
At that time Methodism was merely tolerated or permitted,
but not favoured by any of the churches ; now it ig not
100 THE NEW world; OR,
only tolerated but favoured, and its turn is come to tolerate
others. But " toleration" is a word which should never be
found in the vocabulary of evangelical ChurcLos. Its
great difficulty among the masses was this : the positive and
open declaration of a present, free and full salvation by
Christ, and the assurance of it in the soul by the Holy
Spirit. These doctrines were at the lowest ebb, just like
England, when God raised up Wesley. The humble and
partly unlettered agents became another difficulty ; and, as
of old, the sarcastic sneer was indulged, " Are not all these
Galileans? " Embury was a carpenter ; Webb came from
the barracks; Straw bridge from an Irish hamlet; and Wil-
liams withdrew from the Irish itinerancy without a penny.
But one said, that "they knew as much at all events as
enabled them to find their way through the country." We
cannot but now recognise the finger of God in this circum-
stance, that four local unordained evangelists, namely, Em-
bury, Webb, Strawbridge and Williams, and one woman,
(nearly all Irish) should lay the foundation of A'uerican
Methodism.
Williams hastened to America before Boardman and
Pilmoor had arrived, and assisted Embury for some time,
and then started for Maryland to assist Strawbridge. It ia
said, that he had to sell his horse to pay hia debts before he
left Ireland where he travelled a short time ; he carried his
saddle bags over his shoulder, and with a loaf of bread and
a bottle of milk he started for the ship, but had no money
to pay his passage. He met a friend there, who did it for
him. It was quaintly said, " He became the first preacher who
published a book, the first that married, the first that located,
and the first that died." From Maryland he passed off to
Virginia, and formed the first society in that State, and
became its apostle, and in one year raised a thousand
members. The Rev. Devereaux Jarratt, a churchman of
the William Grimshaw type, entertained Williams, and en-
couraged him to get the whole country converted and join
the Society. If all would thus co-operate, how soon would
the world be converted. One of William's converts was
Jesse Lee, who became a pioneer in New England ; he
bore a great resemblance to Samuel Bradburn, the De-
mosthenes of English Methodism, and was ^t least as
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. lOt
prompt at wit It is said that ho was overtaken one day
by two lawyers, who thought to try their hand to puzzle
Jesse. " Well, Mr. Lee, you speak extemporaneously.*'
" Yes, gentlemen, I do." " But how do you manage when
you happen to make a blunder, for we find it very difficult
to recover ourselves." " Oh," said Jesse, " I just let it take
its course as if all was right." "But suppose you would
give us an example, Mr. Lee." " Well then," said Lee,
" suppose I was quoting that text in St. John's Epistle,
'the devil was a liar from the beginning,' and that I
happened to say ' the devil was a lawyer from the begin-
ning,' I should never mind but pass on." " Oh, Mr. Lee,"
said they, " we now see that you must be either a knave or
a fool ; " and as he happened to be riding between the two
lawyers, he said, " No gentlemen, I am neither one nor the
other, but I happen to be hdween both of them." I imagine it
was high time for the two gentlemen to pass on, and leave Lee
all alone in his glory. Preachers had some hard customers
to deal with in those days. The following instance occurred
with Jesse again. On one occasion when he was preaching,
a young oflitor came to hear him, but he behaved so badly
that Mr. Lee rebuked him sharply, before the congregation.
The officer swore he would have revenge, but could never
meet with his reprover for years. At length one day he
overtook Lee when he was travelling to one of his appoint-
ments, and asked him if he was so and so, and likewise in-
quired if he remembered preaching at such a place and at such
a time, and his having reproved an officer. Mr. Lee answered
affirmatively. " Well," said the officer, " I swore to take re-
venge if I ever met you, and I am now resolved to do so.'*
" So you may," said Lee, " for you are stronger than I am ;
but,'* said he, " you will have to do it while I am on my
knees praying for you, and to bear it for Christ's sake.'*
In a moment he was down off his Korse, and on his
knees. When the officer saw him in that position, he
trembled from head to foot ; and as if he was pursued by an
avenger of blood, ht fled terror-stricken. The patience and
meekness of Lee were such as to convince him of the genuine
character of religion, and his own want of it ; these sounded
in his conscience like an alarm bell, and ultimately led to
his sound conversion ; he lived and died happy in God. His
102 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
Bon became a minister, who, when he met Mr. Lee as an old
man afterwards, informed him of his father's happy death
and of his own conversion, and now his introduction into
the ministry. Thus did the Lord make the wrath of man
to praise him, while his ser\'imts went on their way rejoic-
ing, in their happy toil from day to day. In a late number
of the chief organ of the New England Baptists, it is thus
stated in an article on Methodism — " The Methodist brethren
have been prospered as no other denomination ever was.
Within the lifetime of some of their members, they have ad-
vanced to the first place amongst us, in numbers, in enterprise,
in stirring activity,and have increased their resources in nearly
the same proportion. At its late centennial, the denomina-
tion walked up to the altar of God, and laid thereon a
thank-offering of millions, such as no other church would
think of rivalling. It is surpassing us all, in the zeal with
which it is founding and funding institutions of learning."
In fine, it is enough to state that, in the brier period of
one hundred years, the original sapling has become the
largest, the fairest, and the stateliest of ecclesiastical trees
in the Union. Two millions and a half of communicants
feed upon its life-giving fruitSj and more than ten mil-
lious sit under its shadow as hearers. It has about 14,000
ministers, and six times the nuu.ber of local preachers ; but
it is not easy to calculate to exactness the millions of Sabbath
School scholars, nor its hundreds of thousands of teachers,
" The little one has become (not merely) a thousand," but
a million ! and we may adopt the language of the 80th Psalm,
when it describes the vine of the Jewish nation, " Thou
hast brought a vine out of Egypt. Thou preparedst room
before it, and didst cause it to take deep root, and it filled
the land. The hills were covered with the shadow of it, and
the boughs thereof were like the goodly cedars. She sent
out her boughs unto the sea, and her branches unto the
river." To God alone be all the glory.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. IO3
Chapter JJ>,
ITotKpwt fiifg. — |[iagara.— fianaba 8Ht«t.
" 'I am the Way, the Truth, the Lt/e,' ,
Sweet sounds which cheer the pilgrim on,
■/ ^; To nerve the heart's weak fainting cords.
Until the blissful goal is won. .,
In them a healing balm is found,
And to the soul that's worn with strife, . .
, How soothing are those precious words, 'v
' I am the AVay, the Truth, the Life."
NewYorK for a day — " Fair " or Bazaar — Abuse — A Charade— Lock-
port City — Meets Brother and Family — Services in the Church
and Country — Prepares for Canada — Niagara — St. Catherine's —
Paris — Bradford — A dreadful death — Meets eldest Brother — Con-
version — Christmas Day — Acrostic on the word — Goderich — Clin-
ton Anniversaiy — Young Lady's Conversion — Leaves Goderich —
Visits Paris again, and Bradford — Rev. C. Bjrme — Hamilton —
Bev. John Potts — Revival — Friends.
^ €^«w^ Jair or ^ajaar.
^EW YORK, December 17th.~l have to pass through
this city on my way to Canada, and arrived at mid-
day from Philadelphia. 1 am much gratified to be
able to spend a night with " friends dearly beloved." I
found Brother Francis Armstrong very poorly, but very
happy. I heard that one of our churches was busily engaged
in conducting what is called here a " Fair," something on
the scale of our Bazaars in Ireland and England. I had the
curiosity to see it. It was w«ll attended, and the variety of
articles to be sold was very great ; but I saw nothing of
what I heard sometimes obtains in such places, that of the
auctioneering or gambling system ; or, like the advertisement
which was announced for a " Fair," and published some
time ago. It ran thus : " So much, to be paid for being
allowed to dance, while religious ladies perform at the piano."
I would hope that stich was confined to those who imagine
that *• the end sanctifies the means." In one case I heard
that something like it occurred in a certain church ; but it
104 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
was defended thus, that it was only in "a perambulating
form, and that the young gentlemen could not resist the power
' Of magic numbers and delicious sounds,'
and rose up to pace the floor." Nor are exceptionable
movements of this kind confined to a few places in America;
they are in Europe as well. I have heard of an attempt at
some theatrical perfoi'mance by some Christian Juvenile Asso-
ciation, in the central town of a certain Circuit in England,
but it was soon put down by the strong hand of godly dis-
cipline. The young intellectualists of our day complain of
the want of something stimulating and new, to meet the
growing improvements of this fast and enlightened age;
that, after the busy bustling of the day, something is neces-
sary for relaxation, and to beguile the dulness of the tedious
hours. Our poor forefathers must have had a wearisome
time of it, who were strangers to the wonderful power of
those modem and varied magic arts, which are now said
" To exalt each joy, allay each grief.
Expel diseases, and soften every pain."
To say the least, as far as procuring money for church pur-
poses and ministers' salaries is concerned, I would say that
the above appliances are questionable, and not healthful to a
church. " There is a more excellent way." Principle
must prompt and supply all those church wants ; the others
are an effervescence, and stimulants always imply weakness.
Let Methodists, at all events, be clear in this matter, then
we will not hear such apostrophising as the following : —
"O shade of Wesley, what woolds't thou say.
If thou hadst lived in this our day f "
One meets many things of a curious character in news-
papers and in books while travelling up and down in America.
I met the following to-day, called " A Charade." —
" In olden times, as Scripture doth record.
Lived one who never did offend his Lord ;
The truth he told, and ne'er did sin commit,
Yet in Christ's kingdom he shall never sit"
I suppose it means Balaam's ass, who faithfully reproved
his master or lord ; and well he deserved it. Our Ameri-
can young friends are very fond of these ingenious questions.
RECENT Visit TO AMERICA. I05
Jirsl ^itAt ia ^ot^ott tfitg. — Slate of |tefa gork.
Saturday, 19th December. — I started early yesterday morn-
ing from New York for this city, and arrived about mid-
night, after a run of 350 miles. My nephew was in wait-
ing, and I was soon in the habitation of my elder biother,
Robert. I need not express our mutual surprise, and also
gratitude, to be permitted to meet after a separation of about
forty years. Before partaking of any refreshment, we had
prayer, and offered thanksgiving to the God of providence
and grace,
" From whom alone our birth,
And all our blessings came.'*
We surely had cause for wonder, love and praise I I re-
tired and had a few hours of refreshing repose. A snow-
storm had just commenced as I arrived last night; and to-
day I beheld for the first time the earth all around mantled
with beautiful virgin snow, and likely to last for fovur months
at least. My broUier and I called on the Methodist parson,
who considered my coming as most providential, inasmuch
as he was unwell, and quite unable to preach next day ; he
pressed me to preach twice for him, to which I consented.
This is a very important city, and lies to the east, and close
to Niagara. I saw several Irish people here to-day, with
some of whom I was formerly acquainted. The city seems
to be in a thriving state. It is a great railway depot, and
has great traffic.
Sabbath, 20th December. — Preached this morning in our
Church, to a very large congregation, and who, I must say,
heard with devout attention. I also addressed the young
people at 3^ p.m., and preached again in the evening at 7
o'clock. A few came forward under very great emotion,
but none professed to have obtained the desired blessings
sought. There was a want of faith somewhere, perhaps it
was in myself.
" for that faith which can remove,
And sink the mountain to a plain."
Monday, 21st. — Preached this evening about a mile out*
side the city, in a place called "the Lower Town." The
road was very rough, the atmosphere very cold, and the
congregation not very large ; but I was well paid for all, by
Io6 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
witnessing a warmth and an earnestness which I did not
expect. I find a gracious visitation had been vouchsafed to
this place some time before. My brother accompanied me,
and I trust he may soon behold things spiritual very clearly ;
of this I have strong hope.
Tuesday 22nd, Jjockport. — I preached in our large church
this evening, or **ather gave an address on the passing events
of the day, especially those in Ireland. The congregation
was large, and a good deal of interest was manifested, but
nothing else remarkable. I prepared for my journey to
Canada, where my eldest brother lives, and to which I pur-
pose going to-morrow, D.V.
IfiagHra— ®nM Sflsles Sibc.
Wednesday, Dec. 2Zrd. — Started early this morning from
Lockport, in a snow storm for Clinton, where my brother
James resides ; my brother Robert accompanies me. We
stopped for two hours at Niagara on the United States side.
" The Falls " are two miles from the city. We took a sleigh,
and as far as we could, in a snow storm, we viewed this awful
but enchanting and world-renowned scene. The view from
this side, I hear, is not so favourable as from the Canadian side,
which is generally known as ** tha Horse-shoe Fall," being
horse-shoe in shape ; and is th*- largest expanse of water.
The height of " the Fall " on this (United States) side which I
saw to-day is 164 feet, and its width is 900 feet to the point
where it is intercepted by a small fall called " the Middle
Fall." This " United States side Fall," is full and broad, and
commands a grand appearance, but in order to obtain a right
view there is a double inclined tramway of several hundred
feet long, by which one may go down to the river's edge.
There are two cars, which run up and down at the same
time, and these are worked by atmospheric pressure, and
sustained by strong ropes, so that while one is going down,
the other is coming up. When one looks down along this
inclined plane, and sees the water at the end, a fear is often
indulged lest the car would plunge right away into the
Niagara river, but I ventured, and all was well. The best
view is obtained by looking up at the Fall from the bottom !
An English gentleman met a Yankee from Boston a short
time ago, at " the Falls ; " both came to see the great wonder.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. IO7
The Yankee accosted the Englishman thus, " What a grand
sight, sir; " to which the other replied, "Yes indeed, quite
enchanting." " Oh," said the Yankee, " I have come such a
distance to see it — all the way from Boston." " Well, sir,"
said my English friend, " I have come further than that to
see it." *' Pray, from where, sir ? " " From Liverpool, in
England." At which the Bostonian looked at his English
visitor, as if he were a greater wonder than the Niagara
itself, and with sangfroid coolness replied, " A good way ofE
that, I guess." The quantity of water which flows down,
or rather is precipitated, is prodigious, and has been variously
computed by minutes and hours, embracing both Falls.
Professor Lyell states that it amounts to 15 hundred billion
of cubic feet in each minute. Dr. Dwght states 100
million two hundred thousand tons every hour ; and De
Veaux, that nearly six billion of barrels in 24 hours ! We
do not wonder at the Yankee replying to the Italian, when
boasting of the superiority of his country, and among other
things adverted to their mighty volcanoes, which could bum
up tihe world. " Yes,'' said the Yankee, " but look at our
Niagara, which could extinguish them all in a moment 1 "
The depth of the water before it falls is 25 feet. The best
time for tourists and visitors to see the Falls is, either at
early mom, when the golden sun is rising behind eastward,
or at night, when the moonbeams play upon the waters, and
the stars twinkle in the heavens, or in the balmy coolness of
eventide ! And the best season is *' The Fall" of the year, or
what is called " the Indian summer," part of October and
part of November. Then nature, all around, appears with
tinted and coloured leaf, and with a generous hand lends
her charms to this enchanting scene ! On my return from
Canada, I hope to refer again to this sublime theme and from
the Canada side. Before I leave these parts and enter on
Canada, I wish to record that it was an Irish local preacher,
of the name of Major George Neal, who was the honoured
instrument of introducing Methodism into Upper Canada.
He came to the States with a cavalry regiment in which he
held the above rank ; and at the close of the war he crossed
the Niagara river at Queenstown, not far from St. Catherine's,
on the 7th of October, 1786, in order to take possession of
an officer's portion of land which had been given to him in
loS THE NEW world; oR,
acknowledgment of hia past services in the British army.
He at once embraced the opportunity of preaching the
Gospel to his fellow-settlers on the banks of the Niagara,
and was made the means of spiritual good to many, although
he had to contend hard for the faith once delivered to the
saints, but endured hardness as a good soldier of Jesus
Christ; and thus did God again put honour on Irish
Methodism in Canada, as he did before in New York.
Now, the children far outstrip the parent.
St. Catherine's, 23rd Dec. — Was most cordially received
by Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Johnston ; he was formerly of Antrim,
where his father resides. This young man had one of the
best mothers I ever knew. He was converted in early life
with his other two brothers on my first visit to Antrim in
1851. He relapsed, but was restored in Belleville, through
the instrumentality of the Rev. Mr. Hall. I held a meeting
for the young men of the society, but the Rev. Mr. CartoU
was absent on a message of " Love " to all his brethren around,
of every Methodist section, in order to engage all, to unite
under the same common banner, as " The United Methodist
Church."
peetiitg ^Ibcst frol^er.
Thursday, Dec. 24, Clinton, Christmas Eve. — Arrived here
to-night after many delays, especially for six hours at the
town of Paris, during which I preached twice in the open
air. I took both sides of the town, where I was, " as one
wondered at,'' but obtained a calm hearing. Here I met the
Rev. Mr. Mills, originally from Dungannon in Ireland ; ho
was among the Primitive Methodists in Ireland, and has
been for many years a very efficient minister among us in
Canada. " Every minister," said he, " is on an equality in this
country : no hand to hat for any man, minister or dignitary."
Coming to the Stradford station, the engine struck a woman
who was standing drunk on the rails ; she was killed on the
spot. I strove to improve the solemn occasion as well as
I could, and to as many as I could. What an awful thought,
to be " driven away " in such wickedness, and without a
moment's warning. What hope can be entertained in such
cases? At the Clinton station we met our brother James,
whom I had not seen for 46 years 1 It was like Jacob and
Esau, who fell on each other's neck, and wept ; and, being
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. IO9
Christmas Eve, made it more affecting. His good wife (who was
a native of Ireland) and daughter, and all, wept for joy, and
very soon, all our rejoicing was sanctified by the word of God,
and thanksgiving and prayer.
(H^lirislmas Jag.
Friday, December 25, 1868. — We had no early service,
such as is usually held in Ireland ; it is not customary here ;
but, in lieu thereof, I preached at two o'clock, p.m. in a
Methodist Church two miles off, called Holraesville. I
took for my text 1 Timothy i. 15, '' This is a faithful saying,"
&c., and, after the usual service, we had a special prayer-
meeting ; and my own two brothers were among the first
to come forward, and the one first to rise to give glory to God
for restoring grace, was my eldest brother. This was a full
reward for my long and perilous journey. The desire of
my heart wai, so far, given to me ; and I record my grati-
tude to God, the giver of all grace. A few others also spoke
of having received good ; but my other brother did not then
obtain the desire of his heart. It was a glorious Christmas
day to me ; and one, I trust, never to be forgotten, while
memory holds its seat or immortality endures. I met the
following acrostic on the words Christmas Day ; and, al-
though it may be regarded as very plain, yet it pourtrays
some of the wonders of redeeming love : —
"O hrist Is bom, the Lord of glory,
H as come to earth ;—0 wondronfl story—
"R edeeming mankind by bis blood ;
I D life and death still doing good;
. S orely tempted, vilely slandered,
T hrough much sorrow here he wandered,
M an's exemplar, see him suffering,
A nd no murmur ever uttering.
S inner, now behold him pleading,
D ivinely planning, knocking, waiting,
A nd all, thy worthless heart to gain.
Y ield, nor let his Birth be vain,^'
Saturday, December 26th. — I met the Rev. Messrs. Poole
(Irish) and Hawke (English) at dinner at my brother's to-
day. They appear to be truly devoted men of God ; they
are the pastors of the churches in the adjoining towns,
Goderich and Clinton. I was greatly interested with the
fund of information they possessed about Canadian matters,
both of Church and State. They told me of some of our
members who were shot in the late Fenian invasion. The
sun was so hot to-day that I burned paper with 9, am9,\\
burning ^lass ; thiii 1$ Ct^ada I
no THE NEW WORLD; OR,
Sunday f 27th December, Goderich.^Vreached twice to-day
to large congregations, and also addressed a large Sabbath
School, and held two prayer meetings after, and all well
attended. Souls were saved, and God was glorified. Theru
is a fine chapel here, but requires further enlargement.
This is a rising town, and the salt mines close by will very
likely contribute greatly to its prosperity, especially if tho
law of reciprocity (suspended since the war) be again restored.
" Righteousness exalteth a nation ; " the sin of war, disgrace
and ruin.
Monday, December 98f/i, Clinton. — Assisted here at the
Sunday School anniversary. The children's dialogues were
admirably well done, especially those on " the Evils of In-
temperance," " Dancing," and " Attending the Circus."
The girls showed up the folly and criminality of dancing from
many stand-points, and in a most convincing manner. Such
anniversaries are occasions of great interest in Canada.
Tuesday, December 29th. — Preached in Goderich again ;
took Psalm xciii. 5 " Holiness becometh thine house, O
Lord, for ever." Several sought this heavenly treasure —
I trust not in vain. We had several pleasing testimonies.
One thoughtless young lady was deeply convinced of sin.
Wednesday, 30th December, Goderich The young lady,
who, on the previous evening, was so deeply affected, found
peace with God to-night, thus verifying the couplet —
" Deep wounded by the Spirit's Bword,
And then by Gilead'a balm restored."
gear's (&bt anb Poming.
December, Zlst, 1868, Goderich. — The last day of this
eventful year ! Assisted the pastor in holding the Watch
Night service. It was an exciting and solemn time. I
preached, and Mr. Poole exhorted ; and we ushered in the
new year with hallowed strains and with sacred vows. We
sxmg heartily —
" Come let na anew our journey pursue;
' Boll round with the yenr
And never stand still till the Master appear."
Friday^ January 1st, 1869. — Many congratulations from
relatives and friends. Preached again this evening. The
good feeling continues, and is likely to increase; but sickness
has kept some of my own relatives from attending.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. Ill
Sunday, January ird, Clinton. — Left Goderich yesterday
amid many kind wishes for my return, which I promised to
do in a week. Preached three times to-day. A good deal of
Divine influence pervaded the serviceb. Many came forward
very freely ; amongst whom was my brother Robert. Much
prayer was ofEered up here, for a revival of God's work.
Several found peace to-day, thank God.
Monday, 4<A. — At the special meeting to-night my brother
Robert sought earnestly, and, thank God, happily found the
heavenly treasure. Truly, his was
" The soul's calm sunshine and the heartfelt Joy,
Which nothing earthly gives or can destroy."
This was to me, if anything could be greater, a matter of
deeper anxiety and delight than even the restoration of my
eldest brother ; for Robert had never before obtained the
pardoning grace of God. Hallelujah ! my two only bro-
thers living, saved by grace divine. I may well thank God
and take courage, and praise Him while He lends me breath.
Tuesday, Jbnuary oth. — My brother left for his home in
the city of Lockport, but returned a new man, to tell his
" friends and neighbours what great things the Lord had done
for him " in Canada, and on the very eve of his departure.
The following week I spent between Goderich and Clin-
ton, during which the revival work continued in both
places ; and I was glad to find for a long time after. Both
ministers and leaders and people threw their whole hearts into
the good work. During that week others of my own friends
found peace with God; also, two very remarkable con ver-
sions took place on the bed of mortality. One was that of a
prodigal young man, whose career was terrific for blasphemy
and drunkenness, and oh, his agonizing distress I but then
the unutterable joy. The other was a member of the Pres-
byterian church, wko was far gone in consumption, but long
in bondage, and in doubt as to her acceptance ; while pray-
ing with her she laid hold on Christ, and never lost her con-
fidence to the last hour. The mercy of God endureth for ever.
Tuesday, I2th January. — Had but a short time to bid all
my friends around good-bye, hoping to see them again before
I leave the country. It was a marvellous fortnight. Eter-
nity alone will fully tell results. Before I started for Paris,
on my way to the Lower Province, I had a very kind and
112 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
brotherly letter from the Rev. Mr. Punshon. It was some-
what thus, " I heartily welcome you to this country, and
hope the good Master will bless your labours abundantly,"
&c. On my way to-day I was delayed by cross trains for
two hours at Stratford station. I took advantage of the
respite, and went off to the town, about half a- mile distant,
and preached in the street to a goodly number. I was in
time to preach in Paris at a " Union Meeting " of several
denominations, for the purpose of promoting a revival of
religion. I took for my text Psalm Ixxx. 1. — " Give ear,
O Shepherd of Israel," &c. We held a prayer meeting
after, but there was no move ; the prayers were so studied
and formal that each appeared cautiots, lest others would be
offended by over much heat and ;: oai. I was reminded of a
prayer ottered up in the north of Ireland, " Lord send us a
revival, but send us a quiet one." I also thought that each
regiment can be drilled best in its own barrack-yard, but on
a field or battle day let all prove that they are one, and
under one sovereign. " Earnestly contending for the faith
once delivered to the saints."
" One aimj of the living God
To his command.we bow."
Wednesday f 13fA.— The Eev. C. Byrne came to meet me
in Paris with his own buggy, and took me to his own house,
about nine miles off. The scenery was grand in several
places, especially from the height over Paris, as we were
leaving. It was one of the grandest pieces of landscape I
had yet seen 1 I am now safely domiciled in the friendly
habitation of good old " Father Byrne," as he is called in
this coimtry. He interested me greatly in telling me how
the *' Theological Institution " among our people in Eng-
land originated, and how he had some hand in the affair.
It appears that he was one of the young men who established
"A Young Men's Mutaal Instruction Meeting, to meet
weekly in Whitefriar- street, Dublin." This was fifty years
ago, and long before Young Men's Christian Associations
were thought of. Among the number there was a young
man of the name of Mason, an architect by profession. He
contracted to put up the railing roimd Stephen's Green, and
made a thousand pounds by the transaction. This, he felt
bis duty to fund, for the purpose of establishing a seminary
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. II3
tor the improvement of our young ministers in Ireland,
It lay over for years ; and still nothing was done, until the
Rev. Thomas "V^'augh secured the right to the money for the
Connexion. He then consulted Doctor Bunting, who warmly
took up the subject, and soon it was arranged to establish
a Theological Institution. Mr. Waugh handed over the
thousand pounds, securing thereby the advantage of the In-
stitution to, at least, four of our young men for two or three
years, during their probation. Mr. Byrne also informed me
how the New Auxiliary fund was formed, and that to it he
gave £20, although he now derives no benefit from that
fund, by reason of his coming to America. I preached in
his church close by, principally erected by his efforts. He
did a great and good work in Canada.
Brantfordf January lAth. — Preached in the street; had
good Father Byrne with me. Many heard, although a new
thing here. I assisted at the anniversary of the Bible So-
ciety: the addresses were lively. The Bible is rapidly
spreading in this dominion.
" Shall we whose souls are ligl I ted
With wisdom from on high,
Shall we to men benighted
The lamp of life deny ? "
iamiUoit.— ilcbibHl.— |el£r Cartng^f.
Hamilton, January 15th. — Here, my coming was anxiously
and prayerfully anticipated, especially by the Rev. John
Potts (Irish) the pastor of the Centenary Church, one of the
best in all Canada. I was cordially greeted at the train by
Mr. Potts, who showed me all manner of kindness, when-
ever opportunity offered, from that moment until I left
Canada. I preached to a very large congregation this even-
ing, and the prayev meeting after was a great success. Many
gathered round the front seats, and several found peace with
God. The revival power, for which much prayer was
previously offered, seemed to descend in a Pentecostal shower.
The sisters laboured gloriously in prayer, and also in directing
penitents; among the most active was my own cousin-
in-law, the widow of the late Rev. Thomas Campbell, my
first cousin, and who was, I hear, a pood preacher, and one
of the best of men. His death was triumphmt.
It was well for our sisters in Hamilton, that Peter Cartright
114 THE NEW world; OR,
was not their pastor at this time, that is, if the following
anecdote which is told of him be true. It is inserted m the
London Recorder thus :— ♦* It appears that one Ann Jordan
gained quite a reputation in one of the churches of Illinois
for her preaching and praying abilities. She was present
at one of Cartright's Camp Meetings ; a good feeling pre-
vailed, and many were at the altar. Cartright called on all
to kneel, and asked some one to load in prayer. Ann, who
it appears was no great favourite with Peter, struck oft
at once with much feeling and power; Cartright, not recog-
nizing her voice, shouted out ' Amen.' A brother kneeling
close by, whispered, ' It's A nn Jordan praying.' Peter, look-
ing round and seeing it was so, cried out, * I take back that
Amen.' " I would say that Peter, fisher and all as he was,
missed both the hook and the hawl at that time, at least.
RECIiNT VISIT TO AMERICA, II5
Chapter |.
Toronto.
" 'Mid the deep woodland's loneliest bowers,
Alike thB AlniiKhty roigni); —
In the wide cities' i>eniiled towers,
On the vast ocean's plains,
Know, hadst thou (>ac;le pinions free
To track the realms of air,
Thou could'st not reach a spot were IIo
Would not be with thee there.
Doth not thy God behold thee still
With all surveying eye ?
Doth not hit power all nature fill
Around, beneath, on high ?
Reception in the city — Description — Rev. Dr. Ryerson — Edaoation
Question — Baptism — Dr. Wood — Coburg College — Knowledge and
piety — Dr. Butler— Government grant withdrawn — Great oiTort to
endow — Rev. Mr. Pnnshon'a efforts — Kingston — Prince of Wales
— Asylum — Penitentiary — Old prison misery — Brockville — Rev. A.
Averell — Lorenzo Dow — Priest's sermon — Montreal — Sir John
Young — Revival— Fall of roof of St. Patrick's Hall— Dr. Clarke on
dancing — The late Rev. John Barry — Canadian and Washington
thunder storms— Drs. Jobson and Hannah.
Toronto — lleteptrott. — €^mchts, etc
SATURDAY, 16th Started for Toronto, where I was
met at the train by the Rev. Mr. Bishop (English),
since gone to glory. He died last Christmas Day in
this city, universally and justly lamented. I was also met
with delight by my friends, Graham and Patton, old Irish
acquaintances, and their families equally kind. I called to
see Mr. and Mrs. Punshon and daughter ; he was just pre-
paring for Chicago for ten days. Thus is he engaged as
" the messenger of the churches," and was never more popu-
lar than he is at present in Canada and in the States. I trust
God will long spare his useful life to the church of his choice.
Here I spent four days, and laboured in two of the principal
churches, north and west; congregations, very large ; hallow-
ing influences were experienced in all the services, and several
found peace with God.
Toronto, which was formerly called "Little York," is a
very rising city. It is also called " the Queen of the West."
Il6 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
It is the Capital of Upper or Western Canada, which is called
the province of Ontario, to distinguish it from the lower
province of Quebec. It is, however, to be remembered,
that both provinces, including also the eastern provinces,
form now one dominion, called " the Dominion of Canada."
The population of To'ronto is about 60,000. It has wide
and well macadamized str.eeta, splendid shops or stores, with
large plate glass windows, brilliantly illuminated at night
with gas. Its squares are well laid out. Its commerce is
very brisk. Its public buildings are very respectable. The
City Hall, the University, the Mechanics' Institute, the Pub-
lic Baths are very commanding, and there is an abundance
of steam and railway accommodation to all parts. The
churches are of a very superior class, especially those of
the Episcopalian, Presbyterian, and Methodist bodies. The
last have an excellent Book-room, conducted by a very
enterprising minister, the Eev.^. Rose. Also a very popular
weekly, called " The Christian Guardian," edited for many
years by the talented Rev. Dr. Jeffers, and now by the Rev.
Mr. Dewart (both Irish). The Normal College of Education,
of which Dr. Ryerson (Wesleyan Minister) is the President,
and J. G. Hodgins, LL.B., F.R.G.S. (formerly of Dublin),
the Secretary, is a first-rate institution. The situation is
beautiful ; it commands a fine view of the bay, peninsula,
and lake. The adjoining grounds are handsomely laid out,
and are very attractive in summer. It has a splendid
museum, &c. It provides a good mixed education, and
the books are of the first class, and do great credit to the
officers. Dr. Ryerson is envied by some because of his
great influence and power. He offered to resign this year,
but the Government would not accept his resignation. He
has laid the whole country under a tribute of lasting obliga-
tion and gratitude. The Bible is a free and open book in
every school, and may be read at any time by all who desire
to do so. Some parties lately thought to have smuggled
a bill through the Canadian Parliamtnt, to prevent sec-
taria'i books being introduced into the schools ; by which,
of course, the Bible would be the very first expelled ; but
the doctor found out the scheme, soon counteracted it,
and blew up the whole. He expects shortly to see education
compulsory : that is, every child must be educated, at least
/ . RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. II7
from seven to twelve years of age. There are no denomi-
national grants in Canada, but grants are made to the Na-
tional Schools. Every parent is at liberty to educate his
own children, but at his own expense, and send them where
he likes, on the same condition.
" fieUbration of baptism— Colntrg College, ttc-
Wednesday, 20tk. — Met Dr. Wood and several other
friends at my cousin's, Mr. Wm. Campbell, of Devonport,
near Toronto, where he has a large farm. He formerly
travelled as a preacher for a year, but became delicate, and
located. One of his sons he called after me some seven
years ago. I baptised another for him this evening ; and it
was a day of hallowed friendship, iiPd of Christian intercourse.
Dr. Wood assisted me in the baptism by prayer. He was
one of the young men wl: om. the Oarsons of Dublin took out
to America many years ago (1826), free of cost to the Pa-
rent Society. He is now the Missionary Treasurer for the
Wesleyan Missionary Society in Canada, full of years and
full of blessings. I returned and preached to a large con-
gregation in Elm Street, Toronto, in the evening.
Thursday, 2lst January, Cobourg. — Left Toronto this
morning; and I must say a more loving, hospitable and
kind-hearted people I scarcely ever met. I was cordially
welcomed here by Professors Kingston and Wilson (botli
Irish) of the Wesleyan College. Dr, Nelles, the principal,
is a very able man. I preached in their splendid church, and
had a large congregation. Many came forward, and sought
the higher attainments of the Christian life. We had a very
hallowed time. Many of the college officers were present ; and
were among the earnest and anxious ones. Oh, what a
blessing, when piety and knowledge, two so often disjoined,
are happily blended ; but knowledge apart from wisdom,
is thus well described —
" Knowledge dwells
In heads replete with thoughts of otht - men ;
Wisdom In minds attentive to their own.
Knowledge, a rude unprofitable mass,
The mer« materials with which Wisdom builds,
Till smoothed and squared and fitted for its place,
Does but encumber whom it seems to enrich."
Friday, 22nd. — I had the pleasure of meeting my old
Il8 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
friend and countryman here to-day, Dr. Butler from Boston,
and of hearing liiiu lecture to-night to a vast audience on
" The Indian Mi^tiny," He surely endured hardness as a
good soldier of Jesus Christ, and did a noble work in India.
What a wonderful career, since I knew him first, a zealous
lad on the Lucan Mission in 1840. The college is called
** The Victoria Wesleyan University," and is rather an im-
posing building. The Government grant has been with-
drawn from it lately, and from some other institutions, of a
similar character in the country. I fear private partisanship
(and I would say bad policy) is doing its work here, as well
as elsewhere. This is likely to be overruled for good, for
the Methodists are making a grand effort to raise an endow-
ment fund ; and during the Presidency of the Rev. W. M.
Punshon it will be accomplished. His efEorts are beyond all
praise. It will be freer in its action, and was never better
o£E in its professorships than at present. The Irish element
has a large share in this, in conjunction with Dr. Nelles.
Saturday, 23rd January^ Kingston. — Arrived here to-day,
and was greeted with a true Irish cead mille faltha, or " a
hundred thousand welcomes." Here are my old friends,
the Johnstons, and several Irish families, some of whom I
knew in the old country. Kingston is a city of considerable
commercial importance, being at the outlet of Lake Ontario,
into the St. Laurence. It has strong military defences. The
harbour is safe for ships of the largest tonnage. Here is a
penitentiary, or large prison, where prisoners are kept apart,
and where the silent system is observed, except when work
interferes. There are two colleges in the city. Here it was,
it will be remembered, that the Prince of Wales was refused
admission to the city some years ago, because he required
the removal of the " orange arch " under which he must
pass, before he could enter. It is said he was advised to
this course by his travelling companion, L . If so, his
counsel was not wise at this time.
He was better advised and acted wiser when, a few days
ago, he laid the foundation of the New Royal Infirmary in
Edinburgh, and did himself great credit by saying, " I can
assure you that it has been a source of great gratification to
me as well as to the Princess of Wales to take part in the
interesting ceremony of to-day. It has always been the
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. II9
wish and desire of the Princess and myself to discharge
those duties which we may have to jieri'orm in such a way
as may conduce to the happiness and welfare of the com-
munity at large. I feel convinced that, with the Lord's
help, this infirmary will prove a lasting benefit to the city of
Edinburgh ; " and on the stone being laid, he offered up the
following prayer — " May the Almighty Architect of the
universe look down with benignity upon the present under-
taking, and crown this edifice with every success." I have
only to say that I believe, if he were asked now to enter
Kingston, or to lay the foundation of a public building for
them, he would do so, if practicable. Kingston is surely
as loyal as Edinburgh, and that loyalty was never more faith-
fully displayed than this very year, 1H70 1 and they know to
forgive as well, proving the truthfulness of the following
lines, said to be written by the present Archbishop of
Dublin : —
" He Is A friend, who, treated as a foe,
Now, even more friendship than before doth show ;
Who to his brother still remains a shield,
Although a sword for him his brother wield ;
Who, of the very stones against him cast.
Builds friendship's altar higher and more fast."
Sabhath, 2ilh, Kingston. — Preached here three times to-
day ; and there appeared to be all the elements of revival
power. The ministers are truly alive to God, and men of
power ; and they have a willing, a liberal and a zealous
people to labour among.
Monday, 2hth. — Spoke at the missionary anniversary,
which was quite in character with, and as full a house as, in ^f
Stephen's-green, Dublin. We had the Rev. Qsseh^ Fresh- c//V <
man, son to Dr. Freshman, the converted Jew, as one of the
deputation. Both father and son would be a credit to any
church on earth. The young man is a first rate platform
advocate and speaker ; and oh, how he did plead for the Jews.
I visited the penitentiary to-day and the asylum also, and
conversed with painful wrecks of humanity. I often think
of the idiot who said to his brother, whom he overheard
praying in a summer house, and thanking God for
manifold mercies and blessings. On his leaving, the idiot
brother said to him, "Well, brother, I heard you there,
thanking God for many things ; but there was one thing
t20 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
you did not thank him for." " What was that, brother ?"'
said the other. " You did not thank God," said he, " for
your reason.'' Oh, what untold mercies crowd our pathway
day by day, to which we pay very little heed ; but if we
could only behold in those asylums that once learned phi-
losopher, that honourable statesman, that eloquent advocate,
that brave general, that clever theologian, with all their fine
intellectual powers now shattered and in ruin ; and further
still, if we could only hear the clanking of their chains,
their frantic cries, their terrific groans, and their unmeaning
and hysteric laugh, we would of tener offer up that prayer
in greater sincerity, " Give us that due sense of all thy mercies,
that our hearts may be unfeignedly thankful, and that we
may show forth thy praise, not only with our lips but in
our lives," &c., and we would also frequently sing
* " When all thy mercies, O my God,
My rising aoul surveys,
Transported with the view I'm lost
In wonder, love and praise."
How true to life do the following lines depict the scene of
human woe I passed thrv-^iigh to day : —
*• Here children dwell who know no parent's care ;
i .'.. Pnrents who know no children's love dwell there ; ' .' ■
Heart-broken matrons on their joyless bed
Forsaken wives, and mothers never wed ;
Dejected widows with unheeded tears,
And crippled age with more than childhood's fears :
' . - ' •' The lame, the blind, and far the happiest they —
' The moping idiot and the madman gay."
gi« #Ib gtnxini prison iit l^e Sitniti.
The prison in Kingston contrasts most favourably with
most of the kind I have seen. All manner of industry and
trades are carried on, and thus the confinement is beguiled.
Some of the old prisons, both here and in the States, were
fearful 1 The following was noted many years ago by a
Methodist minister ; he says, "As we went from one apart-
ment to another, and beheld the wretched criminals, they _
would raise their eyes toward the doors to see if it was a
relative who had come to visit them ; but when disappointed,
they went on with their labour again. Each of us carried
a light/cd candle as we descended into the caverns beneath,
supposed to be first opened, for mining purposes. We pro-
ceeded from one cavern to another until our guide led us
RECENt VISIT TO AMERICA. 121
to what he called f\e sounding mom, where the echoes of
the voice produced a loud and singular sound ; and here was
a chain firmly fastened to the rock, where very obstinate
criminals are sometimes confined, until they submit to the
regulations of the establishment. It has been often com-
pared to the abode of the wicked in another world, and a
suitable emblem it was in many particulars; but it is a
relief to know, that it has long since been superseded." The
following lines present a true delineation of not only the
above **hell upon earth," but it is to be feared that there
are many prison cells still as bad, and no hope of their
being made much better. We have only to refer to those
excavations lately seen in Spain by the Rev. Mr. Guinness : —
" To the shocked sight, the dismal cells expose,
Where death-doomed felons wait life's awful close;
Hero demon fury every sense appals,
And shakes with impotence of rage, the walls.
To swell the dnadful scene, while all around
The clanking chains in mournful concert sound.
Where, as the night clock strikes, the culprits hear
The tread of death at every stroke more near ;
And with the day-break startled fancy eyes :
Before their view tbe fatal scaffold rise."
^tlutibts at $rochlrHIe anb ^rescolt, etc-
Brockville, January 28th. — This is a beautiful little town ;
and is supposed to be very healthful, perhaps arising from
its proximity to the St. Laurence. The houses are built with
considerable taste, and the streets have an appearance of
elegance, such as is often found in Canadian towns. It is
named after General Brock, who fell in 1812. It has about
5,000 inhabitants. You can cross the St. Laurence from this
town in a ferry boat to Harrisburg, in the State of New York.
Here I was most cordially received by my first cousin, Mr,
Henry Mulvagh, and his affectionate wife. He has been a
pillar of our church in this town for many years, and he
makes himself useful in every capacity. Here also I met
his brother William, who has been a local preacher for
years : all born in Ireland, and came out many years ago
with their widowed mother, who was converted in Easky,
Co. Sligo, in the days of Graham and Ouseley 1 I spent
two days here with much delight, and, I trust, the public
122 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
services wili not be forgotten. It was quite a time of spiri-
tual joy. I spent also two hours at Maltland, where I
preached a mid-day sermon ; and a marvellous time it was,
not less than thirty sought the mercy of God. Near to this,
Barbara and Paul Heck are buried. I met a grand-daugh-
ter of their's in Maitland, far advanced in life but happy in
God.
Hlbsioitarg Peeting at ^rochbilU.
At a subsequent visit to this place, I assisted at the Mis-
sionary Anniversary of this town, when I met the Rev. Mr.
Harper from Ottawa, as one of the deputation. He also is
Irish, and a very clever man, and speaks the Italian language
well; he would willingly go to Italy as a missionary at
any moment. He made an admirable speech to-night. Mr.
Brock, pastor of Prescott, told us of some of his pioneering
adventures in Canada. On one occasion when riding over a
partially frozen river, the ice gave way, and down went man
and horse ; but according to the usual plan in such cases, he
by some means stopped the breath o£ the animal, in order
that it might swim, which is always the case when so de-
prived; otherwise the animal would sink. He must have
gotten his arms round its neck, and held fast the windpipe,
which is altogether a marvellous way of escaping from
being drowned. If Dr. Coke knew this method at one time,
when thus exposed, he might have been saved the dreadful .,
drenching he endured, but miraculously escaped. Here I <
met with the Autobiography of the Kev. Dr. Cooney, who ^
was educated in Dublin for the Roman Catholic priesthood. ,
It is full of incident, and worthy of being widely spread. •
It gives an account of how he became a Methodist and a ,
Methodist Preacher, which he continued to be until this
year, 1870, when he passed away to the inheritance above,
from Toronto I He entered our ministry in the same year
as the Author, 1831.
From Brockville I had to travel to Prescott (7 miles) in -
the midst of a thorough Canadian snow-storm ; and in a
short time the snow rose to a great height; and to see
females walking along was painful to me, but I hear they
don't mind it at all, although they had to wade along almost
knee deep; but they wear very long-legged tight boots,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 123
almost to the knee but carry no umbrellas. The friend who
drove me in his sleigh was in a curiout> plight ; but I had
an umbrella, a luxury scarcely ever indulged in by male or
female in Canada : the foi-mer are well furred, the latter well
chuded, that is, a very fine woollen shawl is w^orn over head
and face, through which they can see pretty well ; but it
would be difficult for others to distinguish them. Brother
Brock, the pastor of Prescott, received us with all the rights
of hospitality, like a thorough hearted Irishman : he is
from Granardy in the County Longford. Can any good
come out of Nazareth? We would answer, as formerly,
" Come and see." He greatly interested me with his
early travels and difficulties in this country, his anecdotes
and interviews with priests and bishops, &c. On one
occasion he heard a priest deliver a sermon on Peter as
" The Eock of the Church ! " and after going over all
the waves brought to beat upon that rock, from the
apostolic times down to the days of John Wesley, he said,
" They all failed, for the Church was founded on a rock.
But why do I speak," said he, " of John Wesley ? Because
he was one of the best men that ever lived. His whole life
was a labour of love ; and if the Church could be moved at
all, it would have been moved by him : but it was not, for
it was founded upon a rock, ' and the gates of hell shall not
prevail against it.' "
Here also (Brookville) Imet with " TheLife of that singular
and eccentric, but remarkably useful preacher, the late Eev,
Lorenzo Dow." Next to Whitfield, no man had attained a
greater or more extensive celebrity. He was born in 1777
in the State of Connecticut, and was converted in early life.
He visited England and Ireland twice or three times. His
Republican views were very strong, which hindered his
usefulness in this country ; but notwithstanding, he had
some marvellous times and conversions. He afterwards
obtained leave from King George III. to remain in this
kingdom as long as he pleased. At one time he drew a very
large crowd by an announcement which he made, that he would
preach on the following evening from the words of the Devil ;
and took for his text Luke iv. 6, 7 : " All this power I will
124 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
give thee," &c. It is likely he had five for one who would have
otherwise gone to hear him. So much for the power of
curiosity. Many exploits and eccentric tales are told about
him. His life, including that of his wife and writings, con-
tains over 500 pages of a closely printed octavo, and is now
before me. He wrote very numerous tracts on various
subjects. He al ways called Calvinista * ' A double L part men 1 '*
He died at Georgetown in the United States, in the district
of Columbia, on the 2nd of February 18a4. He travelled
for thirty -four years, and was 57 when he died. He visited
almost every part of the United States. The last lines in
the book are : —
" And well assured I am,
V True peace is only known
Where He, the harmless Lamb, i
Has made the heart his throne.
Then, there may tempests rage.
Cannon may roar in vain
The Keck uf every age.
The Lamb the Lamb doth reign."
In the life of this wonderful man, now noticed, the follow-
ing account is given in his own words of the conversion of
the Rev. Adam Averell : " I visited Tentower, Mr. Averell's
residence. His conversion occurred thus : — A church cler-
gyman gave him a rap on his head one day with a cane, in
play, when he was only six years old ; he said to his grand-
mother, * I wish he would never come here again,' and when
she saw the lump on his head, she was equally exasperated.
He asked ♦ why such a man preached ? ' She said, * To save
people ; but he would not, except he was well paid for it.'
He said, 'When I am grown up, I will preach for nothing.'
She said, * That is a good resolution, but you will forget it.'
He said, ' I will not.' His father lost a purse of gold some-
time after, and said, * The child who would find it and
return it should have whatever he would ask.' Adam found
it, and said, * Let me go to college instead of my brother,'
and would not be put off. He went, and became a church
minister, but preached for hire. One day having called on
a Quaker family, they said to him—' Art thou the man who
preaches for hire in the steeple house? Don't thee preach
for hire ? ' He said he did. ' Dost thou think it right ? '
He said, * I don't know that it is wrong.' * But is it right ? '
said the Quaker. His youthful promise to his grandmother
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I25
started to his mind ; he was baffled. * Dost thou want for
light?' said the Quaker. He said 'Yes.' So the friend
gave him a book against hirelings, which when he read,
carried conviction to his mind. He gave up the curacy,
which his wife had for pocket money. She said to him,
* What shall I do for pocket money now ? ' He said, ' My
dear, I hope God will enable me to make out as much
another way.' He built a pulpit in his own house (like
Harrison of Naas) and began to hold meetings ; but was
not yet converted. One man, who had heard him got
converted, and professed to know his sins forgiven. Averell
reproved him, saying, * I don't know my own sins forgiven.'
' If you don't,' said a Methodist, who was standing by, ' I
do, and if you look for the witness, you will get it also.'
So he did, and joined the Methodists, and began to itinerate,
but persecution awaited him ; one day a man in a mob
shouted, * The d — 1 split my head open, if I don't do so
and so to the Swaddler,' but he was restrained from doing
violence. That man afterwards had his own head literally
split open by a French sword on the Continent, the account
of which, one of his companions, who heard him make use
of the above words, wrote home, and requested in the letter
for no one to oppose Mr. Averell, for that he was a man of
God." Thus ends this marvellous story recorded in Dow's
journal about sixty years ago, and almost similar to that
recorded by Messrs. Stewart and Revington, who wrote Mr.
Averell's life. v ^ /f.
Ponlwal dtilg, ^ITofaw Canaba. , >
Montreal, January 30th, 1869 Here I arrived to-day
(Saturday), and the reception I met with both from my own
relatives (uncle and family, &c.) and several ministers and
influential lay members of the Chiirch, constrains me to
wonder, and adore the kind Providence which thus opens my
way and grants me such a large share in the friendships of
the wise, the good, the truly great. I may well adopt and
endorse eveiy word of the following lines on genuine
friendship —
" Friendship ! mysterious cement of the soul !
Sweetener of life, solder of society,
I owe thee much, Thou hast deserved of me
F»r, far beyond what I can ever pay.
Oft have I proved the labours of thy love,
Ajid the warm efforts of thy gentle heart
Anzioiu to please. "
126 THE NEW world; OR,
My uncle came out many years ago, and succeeded amazingly
in worldly matters, and is also a pillar in the church of St.
James-street for the last forty years. He can truly say that
religion is not only worth a world, but that it is worth two —
for " it has the promise (not only) of the lifo that now is,
but that which is to come." Montreal is the commercial
capital of Lower Canada, indeed I may say of all Canada I
Quebec is tlie military, and Ottawa the Legislative Capital
of the Dominion. Montreal has greatly risen both in mer-
cantile prosperity and architectural improvements during the
past few years. Its name by abbreviation is derived from
the great mountain close by, called Mount Royal. I spent
ten days in this city, and oh, what a time of hallowed excite-
ment it was, especially in Great St. James's-street Church
where I principally laboured, and where we had marvellous
dispKays of divine grace, the glory of the Lord was revealed.
But while all this was going on with us, the outside world was
all bustle and anxiety and gaiety. Sir John Young's inau-
guration as Governor- General of the Dominion of Canada
took place while I was here ; how little did the courtiers
know of the scenes of far higher importance (than State
etiquette or royal charters), which were going on with us,
at the same time. If we might use the phraseology,
" Many precious and priceless souls were instated into the
divine family, and made heirs of God and joint heirs with
Jesus Christ our Lord." Sir John had a very busy time
of it in visiting colleges and schools of all parties, and in
receiving and answering addresses ; our time was spent asking
and receiving answers from above ; our joy was great, our
gratitude sincere, and angels rejoiced with, around, and
over usi ;,- - ,^ ,: ,^
I' ^t M of SI. latmK's iail.
An awful accident occurred during my stay here, by
which about 2,000 of the inhabitants of the city and neigh-
bourhood were very nearly hurried into eternity ! It waa
by the falling in of the roof of the great hall of the city
called " St. Patrick's Hall," — this occurred on the night of
a great ball being held in it in honour of Sir John. The
walls oscillated, I suppose, by the dancing, and the weight of
snow on the roof ; a slight noise was heard, and there were
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 127
only a few minutes to give the alarm ! All fled. And
in a moment after, down the tremendous roof came, and
yet with the exception of a few slight scars (as if to
remind them of the danger and escape), no serious in-
jury was done. " In the midst of (deserved) wrath, God
remembered mercy," but I fear they will soon return
to their old folly. The great image of the saint was
broken in pieces, and lay like Dagon before the ark. It was
not right to make the great saint a patron of such folly and
madness as that of " ball dancing." Dr. Clarke, who was in
eaily life passionately fond of dancing, but before his con-
version, speaks of it afterwards thus — " Dancing was with
ma a perverting influence, an unmixed moral evil, it weak-
ened moral principle, it drowned the voice of conscience, and
was the first cause of impelling me to seek my happiness in
this life 1 I have it justly in abhorrence for Ae moral
injury it did to me, and I can testify I have known it to
produce the sjime evil in others. I consider it therefore as
a branch of that worldly education which leads from things
spiritual to things sensual, and from God to Satan. I know
it to be evil, and that only. They who bring up their
children in this way, or send them to those schools where
dancing is taught, are consecrating them to the service of
Moloch, and cultivating passions so as to cause them to
bring forth the weeds of a fallen nature, with an additional
rankuess, and deep-rooted inveteracy ; shame on those Chris-
tian parents who advocate a cause by which many sons have
become profligate, and many daughters ruined." Cicero, a
heathen, wrote — "No man in his senses will dance." It is
cause of thankfulness to know that the religious interests of
this community are keeping pace with the prosperity of the
city, at least so far as Methodism is concerned. I was, how*
ever, grieved to see one or two Episcopalian places, where
ritualistic tendencies prevail. Here (Montreal) I met Mr. John
Barry the respected son of the late Rev. John Barry, formerly
missionary at Barbadoes and Jamaica, and originally from
Cork, Ireland, where I had the pleasure of meeting him in
the year 1831, when I passed the district in Cork as a
candidate for the ministry, and oh, how he encouraged me on
that occasion ; he was over to Ireland for the good of his
hc'iilth, ftnd soon after returned to his hfillowed worki
128 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
What a prominent part he took in the emancipation of the
alave, and how important his testimony before the Home
Government ; afterwards he was appointed to Montreal
where he finished his hallowed course. " He was truly a
burning and a shining light." His son is now a partner
"with my uncle in a highly respectable mercantile establish-
ment ; his wife is daughter to the late John Smith, Esq.
(formerly of Pettigo, Ireland). He was brother of my
esteemed friends, Mr. George and Dr. Smith of Belfast. I
met and laboured with many ministers of note, such as the
Rev. Messrs. Douglas and Borland, &c. I also called on the
Rev, Dr. Jenkins, formerly Wesleyan, now Independent,
being requested by a friend in London, who formerly knew
him, to do so.
Dr. Jenkins was in the pulpit in great St. James's Metho-
dist Church in this city twenty years ago, when Dr. Dixon
cried out, (after the candles were put out by a thunder-
storm) " What shall I do? " It was an awful sr ne. Dr.
Dixon's description of a Canadain thunder-storm is as fol-
lows : — " The storm was exceedingly grand, the thunder was
loud and terrific, the rain descended in torrents, and the
lightning (unlike ours of the forky description) appeared like
sheets of fire, whilst the heavens seemed enveloped in one
universal blaze." Another describes a Canadian storm thus :
" The heavens became suddenly darkened with clouds, large
drops of the coming deluge began to thicken ; Nature, from
a perfect calm, is thrown into a tremendous uproar ; tempest
rolls on tempest, the storm rages in fury, the clouds in black
sheets fly to either pole, waves of fire roll across the sky,
peals of thunder succeed each other with fearful rapidity, the
earth trembles, the heavens resemble the ocean in a storm,
billow rolling on billow, broken here and there into frag-
ments of fire ; at the end of an hour the storm is at the
crisis — then the raging winds subsid , and the electric fires
are extinguished by a torrent of rain, and soon all is calm
and beautiful again."
Dr. Jobson gives a graphic description of a similar scene
which he and Dr. Hannah witnessed in Washington in 1858 ;
it is thus : — " It came on in the dusk of the evening, the
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 129
clouds gathered black above and very dense, the lightnings
flashed incessantly, and the thunder literally shook the earth
with ^ta echoes. At one time the firmament was all a-fiame
arounvi us, and then it appeared to open and shut in different
part,j w ith fire. The wind rose and rushed along furiously, until
we could not walk the streets. It bent and split the trees of
the avenue, and howled fearfully in the corners, and among
the chimneys of the houses. A few large pattering drops
of rain fell and spread themselves upon the pavements ; and
then as if the sky had suddenly burst, the waters poured
down in torrents, and ploughed up the ground into deep
rugged furrows, until one was ready to imagine that a
second deluge was come.'* I would say, how delightful to
be able to sing in the midst of all this " war of elements,"
"This awful God is ours our Fatlierand our Love."
9
130 THE NEW world; OR,
CJaptf V XL
lielunt to %p«t Canaba— itbrsits lo st&tral f lacrs.
" Christian soldier, watch and pray.
Foes surround thee night and day :
Wield the sword and wear the shield,
Soon thy foes shall quit the field.
Your motto is, 'mid scorn and frown,
' Who bears the cross, shall wear the crown.'
What are all the gems of earth T
What the pride of royal birth T
Thou canst boast an ancestry
Higher than earth's pedigree ;
Thou art heir of joys to last
Secure when those of earth "re past"
LeareB Montreal — Love Feast at Toronto — Experience of peraons of
colour — Conversion of a young minister— Preaches before Mr.
Punshon — Mr. Hodgins, Dublin — Visits Prison — Dr. Freshman —
Out-door preaching — Mr. Ouseley — Accident at Hamilton — Birth-
day — London (New) — Young ministers' examination — Missionary
Ladies — Woman — Dr. Coke — Marriage — Letter — Aurora —
Poetry on the Irjish Missionaries — Mr. Dewart as a poet —
Brantford — Mr. Gemly — Peter Jones — Queen Victoria — Cowper—
Peter Jacobs — John Sunday — Judge Jackson — St. Catherine's—
Mutability of life — Poetry.
BADE an affectionate and grateful farewell to my
dear friends in Montreal, whom I shall not soon forget,
but whom I hope to see once more before I finally leave
in the month of May. I preached in Brockville, Peterborough,
Toronto, Aurora, Hamilton, and London, &c., as will b»i seen in
the following sketch. I assisted at a love feast in Toronto, and
I was much interested as well as amused with the plain and
familiar manner in which some persons of colour spoke.
One man said, " Me was full year and de half seeking
religion, and me could na find it ; but one day me sweep
out store (shop), and all beenonst me, de Lord came i^ght
down upon me, and swept me out, right clean away ; and me
be now happy. Bredern, pray for me." Another said, " Me
had hard work to find religion ; but me find it harder to keep
it. Me taught, me had fought de devil right out ; and dat
me got rid ov 'm, but him return last week, and him began
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I3I
to fight again : den me say, * Now here goes, devil, me fight
till me die.' Me spose him don't like me, and me be sure me
don't like him. Mee'l fight until me gets de victory, and
den mee'l shout all de way home troo de blood ov de Lamb."
A poor white woman stood up and said, " I went forward
the last time you were here to get my husband prayed for ;
and, thank God, he was converted the next day." During
my stay here at this time, I was much pleased with the ac-
count which a young minister gave me of his conversion.
He was a Roman Catholic up to his seventeenth year ; and
at that time was induced, at the [request of a respectable
young man, to go to a revival meeting; he did so, and went
a second time, and on the third night he sought and found
peace with God. Several of his friends are still Eoman
Catholics. He promises to be very popular and very useful.
While here (Toronto), I preached in Adelaide Church',
where Mr. Punshon and family worship, and where he
occasionally preaches. The Lord gave me some degree of
liberty while I dwelt on "the suflferings of Christ and the
glory which should follow." Before I engaged in this ser-
vice, I accompanied my friend Mr. Hodgins (at whose hos-
pitable house I am now stopping) to the city jail, where he
holds religious services on the Sabbath morning at 9 o'clock.
I had to preach to about one hundred convicts, who con-*
ducted themselves in the most corroct manner. Some of the
men were very respectable looking ; and of women also not
a few ! I selected Zechariah ix. 12—" Turn to the str^^ng-
hold, ye prisoners of hope," &c. It waa a time of deep
mterest to me, and I was rejoiced to find such an amoimt of
sympathy, m the way of instruction, brought to bear on both
sexes by Christian ladies and gentlemen.
Soronlo— ^r. gxts^mun, Ifee Confrtrleb |fk
Here, I met Dr. Freshman, at a missionary meetuiff.
He mterested us all beyond measure for nearly an hour
He pleaded hard for the poor Jew. He said, « We can
pity poor Figi; but who pities the poor Jew, and vet
our Lord pitied them, for he was a Jew himself; they are
now like sheep without a shepherd and without a fold,
and neither food nor feeder have." He told us of several
132 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
blunders which he made when learning the English language.
At one time he published for a great learned doctor to preach,
and in wishing to give him the ephithet dtstmgutshed, he
said, "the great extinguished doctor so and so, will preach.
&c. He was quite animated and hum(»ou8, and is a very
interesting platform speaker. May the Lord save the Jews,
and " bring in the fulness of the Gentiles I ^ , , ,
About this time I preached both in the street and suburbs
of Toronto. One respectable looking man came forward
and promised he would break the Sabbath no more, he was
addicted te doing so. I also preached at Devonport, a few
miles from the city (Toronto), and met remarkabe instances
of Ouseley's former labours in Borrisokane (Ireland), now
pillars in the Church here. After this, on one night in
Queen street, Toronto, no less than thirty-five persona stood
up to glorify God for blessings lately received. I took the
street after this in Hamilton, and the farmers who were m
the city selling firewood, heard gladly the word of exhorta-
tion. I believe a " general mission" for open air and street
preaching, would be a great blessing to Canada, especially
Canada-west ; but who will volunteer ?
f amillon.— Cfee «wat llailtoas 3^mbent.— J5ttltb8B» «lt-
I came to this city again, by special invitation; to preach
missionary sermons, and assist at the missionary anniversary.
It is called " the ambitious little city," and is rising fast to
civic rlaims, and running hard to overtake its bordering
sister, Toronto ; but alas ! it obtained, some time ago, a tragic
notoriety, by reason of the terrific railway accident close
by, when some seventy immortal beings were hurried into
eternity. I passed over the wooden bridge to-day, through
which the carriages broke down. Several of the passengers
were members of our Society, and truly pious. To h^r the
harrowing account of the various bereavements was heart-
rending. In the midst of life we are in death. ^
Narch 28th.^Sahbath, FamtV^on.— Preached in Dr.
Evans's church in this city to-day. It was he who laboured
and endured so much in Vancouver's Island, British Co-
lumbia, and in other places of the jnisaion field. I preached
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I33
also to-day in two other chapels, and " the arm of the Lord
was made bare.'* I might say, in all the congregations, espe-
cially in that of Dr. Evans's, we had some rich tokens, as if
prelusive of a coming shower.
March 29«A, 1869, ^amifton.— This is my birthday. I
may surely exclaim with the Psalmist, " Goodaess and mercy
have followed me all the days of my life."
" Oh, the goodness of Ood
In employing a clod
His tribute of glory to raise,
His standard to bear,
And with triumph declare
His unspeakable riches of grace."
I was invited to take part in the missionary anniversary
in King-street church. I was much delighted with Dr.
Evans's apostolical labours in British Columbia for many
years. He is English, and first laboured under the Parent
Missionary Society in London. His commimications for-
merly enriched the Missionary Notices. He is highly esteemed
in Canada. Of him and his colleagues it may be truly said,
they endured hardness amidst wilds, and wastes, and solitary
places, natural and moral.
" Where untamed nature held the revels wild,
There, on their pious toil their Master smiled ;
Now Eden blooms, and savage hordes are mild."
London (New.) — This is a rising city and likely to vie with
the other cities of Canada, especially in church interests. In
commerce it is likely to do well also ; but its agricultural
resources all round, are very abundant. The city has all the
parapharnalia of the names of London proper, such as Cheap-
side, Fleet Street, St. Paul's, Thames, Blackfriar's Bridge,
London Bridge, Westminster Abbey, &c. Its streets are
wide, but not all filled up yet. I suppose it may have 40,000
inhabitants. Methodism is a great and felt fact in this part of
Canada, and it is likely to go ahead. This is my second
visit to this city, and I find that the good work commenced
about three weeks ago, when I was detained by a snow-storm,
continues with great power. The ministers, the Rev. James
Elliott (Irish) and Briggs (English), are workmen indeed.
On my arrival I found a number of young preachers waiting
in the city to be examined by several senior ministers, in
their course of reading and study through the year — pre-
134 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
paratory both to the District and Conference, some for
continued probation, and others for ordination. I hear
they passed through very creditably, although the curricu-
lum of examination was very lengthy and varied. I under-
stand it has been moderated a little. At all events it shows
that the Conference will not (if possible) lay hands suddenly
on any man. There were about fifty young men in all ;
and while they were waiting for their papers, the Rev. Mr.
Lavell, from Gait, requested me to address them. I did so,
and dwelt on three points. Duty, Discouragement, and Re-
ward. I dare not call it a charge, for I [had no official
authority to do so ; but we had an interesting time, and the
young men seemed to be greatly encouraged, when I told them
of Irish toils and triumphs. One of the young men of the
name of Mahon, claimed relationship to me in the way of
spiritual parentage. I preached in the evening before all
the ministers. It looked like a Conference. The prayer
meeting after, was a glorious success. Souls were saved.
In coming to this city (London), I met two missionary
ladies ; one, who had recently arrived from the Sandwich
Islands, was returning to the States, after a visit to Mon-
treal. This lady is the wife of one of the missionaries of the
American Board of Missions. She came home to leave her
two children at school. Oh, what a cheerful and happy
creature ! enough to make any one in love with missionary
life. She left her husband behind, and she intends to re-
turn soon. I said, " I suppose you must feel very lonely,
as you have none but natives to mix with. I suppose your
friends at home pity you very much." " Pity me," said
she, " they may pity themselves ; they need not pity me.
I pity them. I am never lonely. I am as happy as I can
possibly be. I want no company when I have my husband."
The other was a young person, and just returning from
near Constantinople, where she teaches a native school of
Nestorian children. She is employed by the Female Board of
Foreign Missions. She said, " she was as happy as she
wished to be in this world." The Nestorians have the
Scriptures preserved in their purity ; but are opposed to our
form of worship, and to most of our doctrines. She too
" put a cheerful courage on," and intended to go back to
her loved employment. I said to myself, " What cannot
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 135
woman do, when her heart is rightly laid on the altar of
God 1 " No wonder the poet would thus pourtray her
again —
" Woman may err, and lose her pure estate,
But thousands make amends by heavenly pity,
By patient kindness, by enduring truth,
Hy love, supremest in adversity.
Her's is the task to succour the distress'd,
To feed the hungry, to console the sad ;
To pour the balm upon the wounded breast,
> And show sweet sympathy ev'n for the bad.'
No wonder Dr. Coke used to write with such ardent love
to his precious wife, who, it appears, was in every way
worthy of the Doctor. His letters would no doubt supply
another rich Cardaphonia, especially if we might judge frdm
the original one which now lies before the author ; and it
is said he wrote to her daily. Her name was Penelope
Goulding Smith, and the only daughter of a gentleman of for-
tune in the county of Wilts (England). His first interview
with her occurred lihus : he came to Bristol on one of his
missionary begging tours, and asked Mr. Pawson, the super-
intendent minister, to give him some names and addresses.
" Why," said Mr. Pawson, " there is a lady now staying at
the Hotwella, who, I should not wonder, would give you
something handsome ; and if you like, I will show you my-
self where she is lodging." It was done forthwith, the two
ministers walked over to Clifton, and then and there Dr.
Coke first saw his future wife. He obtained a large sub-
scription of some hundreds of pounds, and one of the best of
wives also, which gave fresh buoyancy to his eagle wing.
The following is an extract from the letter mentioned above,
and written to Mrs. Coke shortly after their marriage :—
Wednesday, Noon.
Mosx Deab of all Cheated Beings,
Farewell for a few hours ; I sball long
to be with you again ; but as I am in the way of pure duty, God will sup-
port me and keep my mind composed. I shall Hy back n you, as it
were, in the evening. It is a great addition to my happiness that I am
fiilly assured we shall love each other to ,all eternity. Adieu, thou
precious love of my heart in Christ Jesus. Unto God's gracious mercy
and protection I commit thee. The Lord bless thee, and keep thee,'
&o., both now and evermore.
I am most faithfully and eternally thine,
THOMAS COKE.
A'
136 tHE NEW WORLD J OR,
Nor was her love less ardent and sincere for him, if wo
may judge by the form of consecration which she drew up
in her private memorandum on the day of their wedding*
It is given to us by Dr. Etheridge, in his life of Dr. Coke,
and is as follows —
" We have presented ourselves unto God, and under Him to each other,
and were solemnly married in the Lord this morning. Unto thee we
give up our whole selves, all we have, and all we are. Accept of our
surrender and sacrifice in and through the Son of thy love I Bless my
most beloved husband and me, in our new relation to each other 1 May
we be Thine altogether, now, henceforth and for tvermore I Amen."
These extracts surely supply a good example for conjugal
affection and honour. There are some other expressions in
his letter even more uxorious than what I mentioned, but I
will not take the liberty of recording them. Enough has been
said on both sides to justify what Dr. Johnston says of mar-
riage, " The strictest tie of perpetual friendship." And I
think the old doctor himself would have no objection to be
married the second time as well as Dr. Coke, because he de-
fends second marriages thus, " The highest compliment a man
can pay to the past wife is, by taking a second, for it shows,
that the first wife made him so happy as a married man,
that he wishes to be so a second time." Nor need we wonder
at the above instances of conjugal love and esteem, for they
were founded on Christian principle ; but to find them as
strong as death among Indians is most gratifying. The fol-
lowing instance will put to the blush many so called Ghris'
tians in their married state, whose cruelty to each other we
read of in almost every periodical of the day : — " In the year
1835, a party of the Michigan tribe of Indians including the
chief, Muk Coonee (the Little Boar) and his squaw, or
" The Lady of the Wild," came to London to negociate for
the sale of land. It appears, the chief's squaw (whose name
signifies Diving Mouse, and who was only 26 years), sickened
and died. When she felt the death sickness on her, she re-
fused all medicine, saying — " If the Great Spirit intends
that I shall die, He would be angry at any attempt on my
part to avert the doom." Loud were the wailings of the
chief and his friends round the couch of the dead squaw,
and she was buried in the greatest pomp. The funeral took
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 137
place at St. John's Churchyard in the Waterloo-road. The
address o£ the chief in his own language was most affect-
ing. It was translated thus : — " For three years prior to my
visit to this country I rested on the bosom of my wife in
love and happiness ; she was every thing to me, and such was
my fear that illness or accident might part us in England,
that I wished her to remain behind in our settlements.
This she would not consent to, saying, ' You are all the
world to me, and in life or death I will remain with you.'
We came, and I lost her. She who was all my earthly happi-
ness is now under the earth ; but the Great Spirit has placed
her there, and my bosom is calm. I am not, I never was,
a man of tears; but her loss made me shed many." These
were red men, say a one, but not Indians; nor did they pro-
fess Christianity. All this affection is justifiable, but
stronger still when prompted and sustained by the divme
principle mentioned in the following lines —
ON DIVINE LOVE.
" True love, indeed, is light from bearen
To man alone this gift is given
To saints on eartli and saints above,
' To Love,' is heaven, and lieaven is love.
It is the sympathetic fire
^ Which lifts from earth each low desire ;
A feeling from the Godhead caught,
To wean from self each sordid thought.
A ray of Him who formed the whole,
A glory circling round the soul ;
It is the spring of harmony.
Which links the soul, O Lord, to Thee."
Mr. Wesley ordained Dr. Coke in England as a bishop to
take the oversight or episcopate of the American churches
after the war of independence. The form of Mr. Wesley's
letter demissory is now before me, and reads thus :—
" To all to whom these presents shall come, I, John
Wesley, sendeth greeting. — Know all men that I, John
Wesley, think myself to be providentially called at this time
to set apart some persons for the work of the ministry in
America* I have this day set apart Thomas Coke, Doctor
of Civil Law, by the imposition of my hands, whom I judge
to be well qualified for that great work, and a fit person to
preside over the flock of Christ. Dated this 2nd day of
September, 1784. John Wesley."
Dr. (now Bishop) Coke ordained or consecrated in turn
Francis Asbuiy as the first bishop set apart in America,
138 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
and gave him his letter demissory nearly similar to the one
above ; it ia thus — " Know all men that I, Thomas Coke,
presbyter of the Church of England and superintendent of
the Methodist Church in America, did set apart Francis
Asbury, first as deacon, then as elder, and now as superin-
tendent or bishop of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
whereof I have hereunto set my seal, Thomas Coke." These
letters speak for themselves as to the dissenting character of
Methodism in those days ; nor can any deny the true Scrip-
tural and apostolic episcopacy to those great men whom God
himself ordained. Nor did Wesley fail to oversee even the
temporal wants of his preachers. In the life of the Rev. Samuel
Bradburn, called " the Methodist Demosthenes " just pub-
lished, there will be foimd a strong proof of Mr. Wesley's
kindness and of Bradburn's genius. Sam was in difficulty,
and wrote to Wesley for help. Wesley responds thus —
" Dear Sammy — Trust in the Lord and do good, so shalt
thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. — Yours
affectionately, John Wesley." This letter contained several
£5 notes, to which Bradburn returned the following charac-
teristic reply: — ** IJev. and dear Sir — I have often been
struck with the beauty of the passage of Scripture quoted
in your letter, but I must confess that I never saw such
useful expository notes upon it before. — I am, rev. and dear
sir, your obedient and grateful servant, S. Bradburn."
Bradburn states that Mr. Wesley gave away in charities alone
not less than a thousand a year, and in one of those years he
gave £1,400. Dr. Clarke says of Bradburn as a preacher,
"I have never heard his equal." The great Richard
Watson, who went twenty miles to hear him (even when
there were no rails), said, " I am not a very excitable
subject, but Mr. Bradburn's preaching affected my whole
frame ; I felt the thrill to the very extremity of my fingers,
and my hair actually seemed to stand on an end." Mr.
Wesley's laconic style of letter writing was, at another time,
displayed in answering a brother on quite a different theme
to that of Bradburn's. A great revival took place on a
Ciircuit, and the superintendent or helper wrote to Mr.
Wesley, and said " that they were all worn out," and begged
him to send them some ministerial help. " My dear Brother,"
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I39
said Mr. Wesley, " the less of human, the more of Divine
power you may expect. Yours truly, J. Wesley." Whether
our good brother thought that this was as valuable an expo-
sition as Bradbum's on such texts as " Without me ye can do
nothing," &c., " Not by might," &c., " The good that is done
on the earth," &c., I cannot say. Dr. Coke was the com-
panion of Asbury for years, at least during his frequent
visits to the States. It is said he crossed the Atlantic eighteen
times, and was called '• the Flying Angel ; " he endured
great hardship in America. At one time he was very near
being drowned in crossing a deep river ; he was carried down
a great way, and was only rescued by a branch of a tree which
overhung, and of which he caught hold when about to sink :
but God had greater and wider work for him to do, and
faithfully it was done ; but at last he fell a martyr to his
burning zeal for the conversion of all India, — he died on his
way to the East in the year 1814. His body lies in its
ocean bed ; and it would appear that an ocean grave well
became him, as a fit emblem of his world-wide purposes,
that eveiy shore might be visited by the blessings of his
high commission, and that every wave should be regarded
as sounding his requiem, until " the sea shall deliver up its
dead." Never was the sentiment of the poet more truly veri-
fied, than of Dr. Coke's body as one of ocean's brightest gems —
" Full many a gem of purest ray serene
The dark unfathomed caves of ocean bear."
And those dark caves will retain the precious deposits com-
mitted to their trust, until the Archangel's trump shall sound.
Aurora. — This is a very nice village about 25 miles west
of Toronto. Here I spent two days, and found some Irish
friends doing well. I met a marvellous case of blindness
in a man of 80 years of age ; it is said he followed a
murderer many years ago to the States, and overtook him,
had him brought back, and proved against him. He was -
hung, but his pursuer lost his sight by the fatigue, although '
the murdered man was nothing to him but his neighbour.
I was interested in his case. It was affecting to see him led
forward by his son to be prayed for, which indeed we did
earnestly, and I believe, not in vain. The pastor, the Rev.
J(oseph Shaw, is from Ireland, and his wife also; they are'
140 THE NEW world; OR,
from Ballycanew side, County Wexford. She is one of the
Bolton families, who, with many others, were some of the
first fruits of the Irish missionaries, Graham, Ouseley, Tay-
lor, Feely, Wilson and Tackaberry, all of whom laboured
hard in Uiat country.
Ilemarksble |poem.
A gentleman, now residing in London (England), on
reading " The Apostle of Kerry " was led to write a beautiful
poem on the above six ministers ; he calls it " Fifty years
ago and upwards," and contains about 220 lines. He knew
them all well, in the County Wexford. The whole would
be worthy a place in ^ny work on the Irish missionary
question, and on its genuine evangelization ; and I hope it
will yet see the light. The following lines are given as a
specimen, with a slight alteration and transposition :•—
•' Th9 first was GRAHAM, apostolic, warm,
Whose smile would soon malignity disarm ;
Tlie next, brave OUSEL liY, wlio foll'd and hew'd
Falsehood and vice, where'er they dared obtrude ;
Then TA VLOR, who, 'mid hard and well wrought toil,
Succeeded Satan's kingdom to despoil :
Nor less young FEELY, blest, with talents fam'd,
A workman needing not to be ashamed ;
And then dear WILSON, with panoply complete,
LSut closet duty was his lov'd retreat ;
Good TACKABERRY last, not least, was lov'd by all,
By rich, by poor alike, both great and small.
Tliey all are gone, in Jesus fallen asleep ;
The grave their bed ; survivors mourn and weep.
Life's battle fought, to death they had to yield,
But having VICI, graven on their shield ! , - >
O may their mantle fall on thouuands more,
Like them to win and wear a crown for evermore ! "
I spoke twice in this village (Aurora) in the open air ; the
snow was deep ; some gaped, some laughed and some lis-
tened. I heard that I had one of the greatest spendthrifts
in the country listening to me.
Ingersoll. — This town lies between Hamilton and London,
and seems a brisk thriving business place. We had a stir
in the church, and many testimonies for Christ. The pastor,
t.h« Kev. Mr. Dewart, is greatly beloved ; he came from
Ireland when a child ; he is now a popular minister, and
may be called " the Canadian Poet of Methodism." He is
publishing a beautiful volume of exquisite poems, called
** The Songs of Life." (It has been since published and
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I4I
now lies before me.) I will give the two first stanzas of the
introduction, or what he calls, " The Prologue."
" Child of my love, thy silvan lays contain
The garner'd thoughts of many a pensive hour ;
The gush of gladness and the plaint of pain
Are vocal here as they In turn had power
To tone the musings of a pilgrim soul,
While onward journeying to life's common goal.
To all to whom the lays of life are dear,
I now commit these rustic, broken strains ;
If they should drv a fellow mourner's tear,
A moment soothe a burdened suffeier's pains,
Wake torpid hearts to tlioughts unfelt before,
Or guide a soul toward heaven— I ask no more."
Brantford, April 4/A, Sabbath. — I preached twice in the
large church of this town to-day, and also addressed a large
congregation of young people in the afternoon. I was de-
lighted with the Sabbath services. Good old father Byrne
came in some miles to meet me at my friend Jackson^s;
here also I met the widow of the celebrated Peter Jones, the
converted Indian chief, who was one of the richest trophies
of Missions in Canada.
<S,timtib atones, '§tUt |one0, ^tUt lacobs, anb |o^ SSanbag.
The Rev. Robert Huston of Dublin writes very touch-
ingly in the two last issues of the Irish Evangelist (Sept.
and Oct. 1870)^, of two of the above great men, and his
reminiscences of them. Jones's Indian name was Kakewa-
quonabi/f which signifies " the rising and the setting sun."
He was of the Chippewa tribe, and converted through the
instrumentality of the Rev. Edmond Stoney, an Irishman,
then one of the Canadian ministers, and the spiritual child
of the Rev. Wm. Reilly. It appears after this, that Jones
was instrumental in Peter Jacob's conversion : his name was
Patasegah. Peter Jones came to England and Ireland about
1830, and Peter Jacobs in the year 1843; both were de-
puted by their tribes to negotiate land transactions with the
British Government, and it appears had interviews with her
Majesty, Queen Victoria, whom they called their " Great
Mother. " The following is Peter Jones's own journal record :
September lith, 1838. — " Left this morning for Windsor Oastle ; called
at the Mission House and Mr. Alder concluded to accompany me ; so
we went by the Great Western Railway to Slough ; then by an Omni-
bus to Windsor, where we arrived a little after 11, a.m. At about half-
pftst twelve, we proceeded to the Oastle and enquired for Lord Glenelg,
to whom we sent i» our oatnes. We were then conducted to bis Lord*
142 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
ship's room, which is in the east wing of the castle. Hie Lordship
appeared glad to see as, and gave ub a hearty ehako of the hand. The
oouvorsation was about the coBtumo in which I Hhould be presented to
the Queen. His Lordship thought I had better appear 'a the English
dress, as he did not know what the Indian dress was, and therefore did
not know if it would be proper to appear in it ; and asked if it was like
the Highland Scotch dress ? We informed his Lordship that it was
not like the Highland dress, but that it was a perfect covering, and that
I had appeared in it at large promiscuous assemblies. Lord Glenelg
then said he would go and speak to Lord Melbome on the subject. He
was absent a few minutes, and on his return said that Lord Melbome
thought I had better appear in my English dress. So we left Lord
Glenelg with the understanding that I should come up to the Castle in
my English dress ; but to bring my Indian costume with me to the
Castle. Lord Glenelg came to the inn in about half an hour after we
bad left the Castle, and said that he called in order to request that I
would bring with me the whole of my dress to the Castle. At about
half-past 2, p.m., we rode in a close Hy to the Castle ; and on appear-
ing before his Lordship, I showed him the Indian costume, and when
he had looked at it, he said I had better begin to put it on. I said if
his Lordship thought best to put it on, I should. He replied that it
was, and asked how long it would take me to dress ? I said about
twenty minutes. His Lordship then left us the use of his room to dress
in. I then proceeded with the aasistance of Mr. A. to undress and tq
pat on the Indian costume aa fast as I could, and finished dressing by
the time above specified. The Honourable Mr. Murray came in to ua
and talked on Indian customs, languages, &c. He informed us that
he had been in America, and had seen many of the western Indians.
I found he underetood a few Chippeway words. His Lordship at length
came in and said that the Queen was prepared to receive me ; and that
I should kiss her hand. So away we went, following his Lordship, and
in passing through the halls and rooms we saw several persons in at-
tendance. When we had arrived at the anti-chamber, a message was
sent from the Queen, that her Majesty wished to see his Lordship. He
returned in a few minutes, and then the doors were thrown open, and
we saw her Majesty standing about the centre of the drawing-room,
with two ladies standing a little behind, and four or five Lords. Lord
Glenelg ntroduced me to her Majesty by my Indian name, as a chief
of the Chippeway Indians in Upper Canada. I bowed two or three
times as I approached the Queen, which she returned, approaching me
at the same time, and holding out her hand as a signal for me to kiss.
I went down upon mj right knee, and holding out my arm, she pat her
hand upon the back of my hand, which I pressed to my lips and kissed.
I then said that I had great pleasure in laying before her Majesty a
petition from the Indians residing at the River Credit in Upper Canada,
which that people had sent by me ; that I was happy to say Lord
Glenelg (pointing to his lordship,) had already granted the prayer of the
petition, by requesting the Governor of Upper Canada, to give the In-
dians the title-deeds they asked for. His lordship bowed to her Ma-
jesty, and she bowed in token of approbation of his lordship's having
panted the thing prayed for by her red children ; that I presented the
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I43
petition to her Majesty, thinking she would like to poseesB such a dooa-
ment as a curioBity, as the wampum attached to it had a meaning, and
their totams marked opposite the names of the Indians who signed it.
The Queen then said, " I thank you, sir, I am much obliged to you."
I then proceeded to give her the meaning of the wampum ; and told
her that the white wampum signified the loyal and good feeling which
prevails amongst the Indians towards her Majesty and her Government ;
but that the black wampum was designed to tell her Majesty that their
hearts were troubled on account of their having no title-deeds for their
lands ; and that they had sent their petition and wampum that her
Majesty might be pleased to take out all the black wampum, so that
the string might all bo white. The Queen smiled and then said to me,
•• You were in this country before ? " I said, I was here eight years
ago. Her next question was, how long I had been here this time, and
when I was going to return. I told her that I had been here abont ten
months, and that I was going to sail next week. I, moreover, informed
her Majesty that I had travelled a good deal in England, and that I
had been highly pleased with the kind reception I had met with. When I
bad finished my talk, she bowed to me in token of the interview being
over, BO I bowed and retired."
Their visits to our churches proved a great blessing,
and incontrovertibly and practically confirmed the trudi
that " the Gospel is the power of God unto salvation to
every one that believeth." Jones and Jacobs are now with
God. And here I may also mention the name of another
great chief, who was likewise converted through the instru-
mentality of Peter Jones ; his Indian name is Shawandis,
which signifies "thunder and lightning," because, as he
said, his mother dreamed of those before he was born. His
English name is John Sunday ; he still lives, but is, I hear,
very old and feeble. I remember him well in Cork and in
Dublin in the year 1 837. I regret I did not get seeing him
in Canada. He interested, beyond measure, a large congre-
gation in the Rotunda, Dublin, in the above year, at our
Annual Missionary Meeting, on which occasion Judge Jack-
son took the chair, who after John had spoken, rose and
said, " I was never more edified in all my life, and never
did I see such a proof of the power of the Gospel as I have
today, by the statements of him whom I will take the
liberty of calling ' my brother,' — and on the moment the
judge rose from his chair, and went over and took the chief
by the hand, which he warmly shook, and welcomed him
as a Christian brother, and as a minister of Christ. This
produced a thrilling effect. The congregation rose en masse
144 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
to witness the scene, and I had the gratification of witness-
ing it also. It was one of the grandest days Dublin had
witnessed for years.
Many stories are told about his peculiar tact and genius.
He jocosely said on one occasion, in speaking about great
doctors of divinity, that the reason why they were not so
numerous among tiie Methodists was, that Methodism was
not sick enough to require their services. On another oc-
casion he said, " If languages make great doctors I should be
a very great doctor, for I learned twenty-six languages in
one day," meaning the alphabet. But one of the best things
he said, was in reference to the Trinity : — " Many great
doctors strive to explain the Trinity, and they cannot do it ;
but I think I see bow that three can be one. I look out
there and I see, there be snow ; I look out again, and I see,
there be ice ; and I look out again (at each time turning
round in the pnlpit and looking through the window), and I
see there be water. There be three, and these three are owe,"
(in substance). I consider this illustration, although very fa-
miliar, is far better than the argument to prove the Trinity
attributed to St. Patrick, before the Irish chiefs, which was
borrowed from the shamrock or trefoil. This latter would
prove Sabellianiam, the emanation system rather than Trini-
tarianism. Although Dr. A. Clarke, in his note on Eccle-
siastes ill. 14. states, " Even the doctrine of the eternal
Trinity in Unity may be collected from numberless appear-
ances in nature,^* and then relates the account of Erasmus
being fully convinced of the truth of the assertion, " These
three are one, and yet distinct" He saw the same root, the
same fibres, the same pulpy st^stance, the same memhraneMU
covering, the same colour, the same taste, the same smell, in
every^part, and yet the three leaves distinct, but each and all a
continuation of the stem, and proceeding from the same root.
Sucl^ a fact, says the doctor, may at least illustrate the doc-
trine, and states that when he was a child he heard a learned
man relate it. I have strong objections to it, nor would the
analogy hold good, except with those who deny the Eternal
Sonship of the second person of the Trinity. Those three chief s
claimed affinity to Irish preachers, because of Peter Jones's
spiritual relationship to Stonoy, the Irishman, and his relation-
ship to Mr. Reilly. It is stated that when Peter Jones met
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I45
Mr. Reilly in Canada, some fifteen years ago, that he used
to call him by the familiar term of " grandfather." And Mr.
Eeilly was the spiritual child of the immortal Gideon
Ouseley, and thus the links unite. If apostolical succes-
sion can be foimd anywhere, it is in such a chain as this : —
Ouseley, Reilly, Stoney, Jones, Jacobs, Sunday, and how
many more, eternity alone will tell. Let us still pray on :
" Jesus, the word bestow,
The true immortal seed ;
Thy gospel then shall greatly grow,
And all the land o'erspread.
Now then, the ceaseless shower
Of gospel blessings send.
And let the soul-converting power
Thy ministers attend."
Mrs. Jones wrote " The Life " of her husband which, I
hear, cost her a great deal of trouble and expense. She made
me a present of a copy, from which the long extract above
is taken.
Perhaps it was one of those converted Indian chiefs who,
so affectingly described his conviction and conversion to God,
before a London audience, as follows : " You know we
Indians are great deer- hunters ; and when we shoot the deer,
he runs away as if he was not hurt ; but when he gets to
the hill, he feels the pain, and he lies down on that side
where the pain is most severe. Then he feels the pain on
the other side, and turns over ; and so he wanders about
until he perishes." And then said, " After I learned to pray,
the pain in my heart increased more severe, I could not
sleep. Like the wounded, deer I turned from side to side,
but could not rest. At last, I got up at one or two o'clock
at night, and walked about my room. I made another effort
in prayer and said, ' Jesus, I will not let thee go, except
thou bless me,' and before the break of day, I found that
my heavy heart was taken away, I felt happy : I felt the
'joy that is unspeakable, and full of glory.' I found Jesus
indeed sweet to my soul." It was in allusion to the wounded
deer, as described above, which led poor Cowper to portray
so pathetically, his own conversion, thus : —
' I was a stricken deer, that left the herd
Long since ; with many an arrow deep infixed.
My panting side was charged, when I withdr>.w
Tu seeU a tranquil de»th in distant shudes,
10
146 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
There I was found by One who had himself
lieen hurt by the archers. In his side he bore,
And in his hands and feet, the cruel scars.
With gentle force soliciting the darts.
He drew them forth and healed, and bade me live."
The pastor of this church, Brantf ord, the Rev. Mr. Gemley,
iaa very able man; hewasbornin Dublin, and, I believe, con-
verted to God in Montreal. (He has been since appointed
as the travelling agent and secretary for the Canadian Bible
Society). He abounds in anecdote. His church here is in
a fine state of spirituality. I spent a very delightful Sab-
bath here with him. It is said that one of the holiest of old
men in this world lives here. His name is Scott (Irish). I
heard him pray. He was frequently near eternity ; but the
church prayed for him again and again, and again and again
he was restored. He used familiarly to say, " they won't let
me go home ; and what good am I doing here." They
wanted his prayers, and they believed he obtained whatever
he asked from God. A few such Abrahams would save a
kingdom.
St. Catherine's, April 8th. — On the 6th I preached here,
and on yesterday evening at Merrittan two miles off, where
an old friend from Ireland resides. This friend was con-
verted at Mountmellick, twenty years ago, and sought and
obtained purity of heart last night. It was a rich season
here to-night (St. Catherine's) ; a large amount of divine
power descended. Many testified for Christ, and of his
ability to save to the uttermost. This is a beautiful town,
and is said to be the summer resort for salubrity and enjoy-
ment, especially by the newly married, and the elite from the
other side of the border. I met some well-doing people
here, who came from Ireland in the famine year of 1848.
There is plenty of room still for as many more as wish to
come. There are some good factories for tweed and cotton
in this neighbourhood, but they cannot compete with the
English market. Already spring time begins to appear;
the grain to peep from the clod, the grass to undulate, the
flowers to open to the sun, the forest trees begin to put on
their green attire, and the fruit trees to push out their buds,
— those hopeful promises of fruit But the laws of nature
may give way, — the grain may wither, the grass may fade,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I47
and cease to grow, the flowers may be seared, and both the
garden and forest trees, may be blasted by lightning, or
' Nipt by the wind's unkindly blast
I'arched by tlie sun's directer ray."
How dependent is man on the blessing and bounty of heaven,
and oh, what an emblem is the above, of the mutability of
all eartiily good, so well expressed in the following lines, on
TO-DAY AND TO-MORROW.
To- day, man lives in pleasure, wealth and pride
To-morrow, poor, of life itself denied ;
'Jo-day, lays plans of many years to come,
To-morrow, sinks into the silent tomb ;
To-day, he floats on honour's lofty wave,
To-murrow, leaves his titles for a grave ;
To-day, he has delusive dreams of heaven ;
To-morrow, cries " too late." to be forgiven
To-day, he lives in hope as light as air
To-monoK, dies in anguish and despair.'
148 THE NEW world; OR,
CJaptev XII.
||[iagara again— Canaba or §ritis^ sib«.
" But lone Niagara doth speak
Of God both night and day,
And force from each terrestrial thought,
The gazer's soul away."
Niagara from the Canadian side, Tarioua riews, and ends with an extract
from a beautiful poem — New York and Philadelphia the second time —
Description of public places — Labours in the churches — Odd
Fellows' day of walking — Franklin — House of Independence-
First Methodist Conference in Philadelphia, Brooklyn — Eev. Mr.
Bstes, son-in-law to the Tenerable Henry Deery — A. backslider's
opposition — The Eev. W. Beecher — Liberality and severity.
SPRIL 9/A, Niagara. — I hastened to this place to-day
in order to have a few hours between two trains to
see this world-wide wonder, of all terrestrial wonders,
chief ; having viewed the other side before, and described it
briefly, it only remains to glance at this Canadian side now. I
arrived here by vehicle about twelve o'clock noon, and spent
two hours in ♦' gazing, and, in wondering mazes lost." I said
there were three " Falls," the middle or smaller, in breadth
or width only ninety feet, and 164 feet deep, but the one now
before me, which is called " The Horse-shoe Fall," from its
likeness to a horse-shoe, is 9,420 feet long and 158 feet deep.
The word Niagara is Indian, and signifies in that language
" the great wonderful water." It was spelled ouyakaria. The
River Niagara is thirty- six miles long from where it takes
its rise in Lake Erie until it falls into Lake Ontario — the
inclination or descent for about thirty-three miles is only
thirty-three feet, but it is fifty within three miles of the
Fall. " Goat Island " divides the river near the Fall, and
can be reached from the American side by a wooden bridge
as the stream is narrow on that side. Dr. Dixon says, he
entered on it, and that he sat for a long time, not to catch
the spirit of the dream, but of the rolling stream. He seems
to have been literally absorbed like an eastern Fakeer look-
ing volumes, until at length he awoke as from a dream, and
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I49
exclaimed, " How beautiful ! ay yes, that is it, it belongs
to the beautiful." *' Now," said he, " the scene is trans-
formed into a perfect unity and glory," — and there, this
♦' living " monument still rolls on, a glorious emblem of the
majesty of God, and challenges for its Creator the homage
of all hearts for all time. What an emblem of eternity in
its ever onward flow. It reminds me of the following mes
which I met many years ago, written on " ETERNITY " by
the Rev. John Wilson, jun., who travelled the Sligo Circuit,
Ireland, in 1 823-24, and died on the Bandon Circuit very
soon after :—
" The mouldering piles of the aged tower,
The solemn deep of the midnight hour ;
The cataract bold on the mountain side,
The ocean grand with its billowy tide ;
The towering cliff with awful form,
The eagle soaring amid the storm ;
The lightning flashing from cloud to cloud,
The thunder roaring long and loud.
These have a grandeur the soul to fill,
With feelings deep unspeakable.
Hut eternity vast, when I think of thee
There's nought beside seems grand to me.
Nor the heights above, nor the deep profound
Will suffice to measure thy ample round.
Thine is a period to all unknown,
Save to Him who reigns on thy lofty throne.
O eternity vast, when I think on thee
There's nought in this world seems grand to me."
The Rev. Mr. Punshon speaks of Niagara thus, " It excites
in the beholder, by turns, ideas of grandeur, beauty, terror,
power, sublimity. I have stood bathed in its light. I have
seen it fleecy as the snow flake, deepening into the brightest
emerald, dark and leaden as the angriest November sky ; but
in all its moods there is instruction, solemnity and delight.
Stable in perpetual instability; changeless in everlasting
change, * a thing to be pondered in the heart,' with no pride
in the brilliant hues which are woven in its eternal loom,
with no haste in the majestic roll of its waters ; with no
weariness in its endless psalm : it remains through the
eventful year an embodiment of unconscious power, a lively
inspiration of thought and poetry and worship — a magnifi-
cent apocalypse (revelation) of God, and surpasses everything
to make it common," and I would add in the language of
Bishop Simpson —
" A thing of beauty is a joy for ever."
The magnificence of the Falls consists principally in the
150 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
immense volume of water precipitated. I have mentioned
the calculations of quantities before ; but to think of 2,400
millions of tons per day, equal to 100 millions of tons per
hour, or 118 millions of gallons per minute, is overwhelming.
The eye may follow the rapidity of the waters as they near
the brink and watch the spot from whence they spring, but
the rush and roar are so great, as they plunge into the gulf
below, that you are literally Ijewildered by their wild and
impetuous confusion. Immediately you behold the spray-
waves, roll up in crested curls, infinitely divided, and like
gossamer float into mid air ; then if the sun's altitude and the
spectator's position correspond, a distinct iris or rainbow is
seen amidst the revelling columns of mist which hide the
broad front of the gigantic flood as they soar from the foaming
chasm ; the prismatic hues are extremely glowing and vivid,
while the fragments of a plurality of rainbows are to be seen in
various parts of the mystic curtain, and give a peculiar charm
to this extraordinary scene. The sound is almost inde-
scribable, being an alternation of clear and muffled sound
like the hoarse voice of ocean surges heavily lashing on the
shore. It is said to be sometimes heard forty- six miles off,
when the atmosphere suits. With all that has been said, it
would be a fruitless task to attempt a full or adequate de-
scription. The astonishing reality puts to flight the most
sublime ideas of anything one can fancy or anticipate. And
although the first glance may create feelings of disappoint-
ment, yet a short inspection will so fill the soul with such
enthusiastic feelings, as those alone can conceive, who have
been favoured with the sight, or accustomed to contemplate
such scenes.
pagara bg f eb. pr. $tbnxi (in part.)
" God of Niagara ! Fountain of Light !
Father of Mercies ! liear my trembling pfayer !
That while I muse upon thy glorious works,
J And the tokens of thy presence here,
Which. I am all unworthy, to behold ;
I may beliold Thyself, and find in Thee,
My strength, my light, my everksting Friend.
But now,
^ •_ . — While standing on this rocky Iedi?e above.
The rast abyss, which yawns beneath my feet.
In silent awe auit rapture, face .0 face
_.. _ .. — With this bright vision of unearthly glory, ~'
Which dwarfs all human pageantry and power.
: ' This spot to me is Nature's holiest temple.
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I^J
The sordid cares, the jarring strifes, and vain
Delights of earth are stilled. The hopes and joys
That gladden selfish hearts seem nothing here.
Unique in majesiy and radiant might,
Earth has no emhlems to portray this splendour.
Henceforth this beauteous vision shall be mine—
Daguereotyped for ever on my heart."
Witb itom t^e ^oirzt liable ^ocli an ifee Canaba or
^ritis^ »be.
In order to see some o£ what may be well called the most
awfully grand and strange sights in connection with this
amazing spot of creation, one must descend several feet
(perhaps 60 or 70) underneath the table rock above, but there
is some trouble and fatigue in doing so ; still it will fully
repay exertion. My time did not, however, admit of
the adventurous pleasure. A visitor who enjoyed it to
the highest degree, speaks of it thus : — " At the edge of the
lower platform, is the splendid rainbow to be seen to the
greatest perfection. At once a new world appears, although
hearing, sight, and even feeling are absorbed ; and nothing
remains but a bare undefined consciousness of existence.
The rocks vibrate ; the milk white boiling mountain surges,
advances, swells, subsides, recoils, lashes, and mingles with
the thick vapour, causing a dull terrific sound which shakes
and rends the air, and makes one's own words inaudible,
however loud. The uproar in this conflict of wind and
water for the mastery, is literally awful and bewildering.
The idea which struck me, when I recovered from this stupor
of astonishment, was, that of being utterly swept away by
the foaming mountains, bubbling and seething at the large
caldron at my feet. This, with the loss of hearing, and a feel-
ing of instant annihilation, by the overhanging black and beet-
ling rock, of 200 feet high, falling on me, was the penalty I paid
for my temerity in venturing to pry so near, into those unutter-
able mysteries of nature ; this place is called * The Imminent
Deadly Breach.' In looking at the dizzy scene, one becomes
confounded and giddy." This place is seldom visited now,
on account of the great danger attending the risk. The
steps and the table rock are very slippery, but still, (1 hear)
the sights through what is called "the split or rainbow rock"
fully reward. " This Rock," is formed by pieces of rock
falling from the table rock of the fall above, and caught at
152 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
the lip of the caldron below, and has risen twenty feet high,
above the mountain surge ; but how it became so transfixed,
baffles all conjecture. It is behind and through this rock
that the grandest ra nbow views are beheld. It obtains its
name, because the extremity of the rainbow arch rests upon
it. It is also called " Iris's Throne." But there is another
penalty one has to pay, even in addition to being well satu-
rated by the clouds of sleet and spray, and that is, to heboid
strange appearances both of the living and the dead. Some
large black toads, and loathsome lizards, and equivocal look-
ing eels, and water serpents are seen here and there
creeping around; others of these are dead. It is truly
amazing to think of the dangers and the difficulties which
some men, and even women, will venture, in order to
gratify the prying curiosity of their nature. Persons
have actually gone down to sketch the scene : have stretched
themselves at full length on the edge of the boiling
caldron, with their heads over, and have actually looked
down into the dreadful abyss, whereas one false step or
movement would be inevitable and instant destruction. But
what makes one's wonder rise most is, that there are those
who will scan and sketch and strive to scale the earth, the
sea, the sky, and yet attribute all to blind chance, or at best
to some mysterious influence called " Nature," a folly which
even a child could reprove. It .s said, that an infidel was
striving to explain to a child, how that chance brought the
sun into existence. The little child, as if inspired, said,
" And why did not chance make two suns ? " Aye, that's
the rub. " But the wish is father to the thought." Infidels
" don't like to retain God in their knowledge." Of such it
may be well said
" All seems infected with the infected spy,
And all seems yellow to the jaundiced eye,"
Truly might Young say, (and to none would it apply with
more propriety than to those infidels after viewing the " Falls
of Niagara,")
" An undevout philosopher is mad.
■ It is said that Blondin crossed over the river on a rope
two or three years ago, and held a chair in his right hand,
and over his head.
I wonder i£ he made his will, that is, if he had any thing to
will. I fear, at all events, he made his own wilt more des-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 153
perate than before. Alas, to think, what some men will
risk for a little worldly fame, is appalling. In fact, their all,
for time, and for eternity. One is reminded of Prior's de-
scription of the old procastinating madman —
" The hoary fool, who many days
Has struggled with continued sorrow,
Renews his hope and fondly lays,
The desperate bet upon to-morrow.
To-morrow comes, 'tis noon, 'tis night,
This day, like all the former flies.
Yet on he goes to seek delight
To morrow, till tonight he dies.",
Another writer describes the lower Table Rock, thus, " The
Cave of Winds," where fable states that JEolus sits and regu-
lates the tv.inds, is reached by a long winding staircase. It is
simply an excavation underneath the sheet of water ; and if
one wishes to obtain the most correct idea of the vast body of
water and of rich rainbow hues, he must go down here and look
upwards. Feelings of tranquillity and beauty and awe seize
the mind ; the clouds of spray are ever and anon decorated
with a splendid rainbow when the sun shines, or a beautiful
lunar one at night. The imagination alone must tell the lovely
harmony of foam and form and prismatic rays behind those
waters. But the sight will feast the beholder as long aa
life shall last; the roar is heard many miles ofiE when
the wind favours, but not more than six, otherwise. The
silvery cloud of fine spray or vapour is seen at the distance
of three miles rising slowly into the skies ; one calls it very
properly,
" The everlasting incense of the waters."
We are led to ask ourselves, will these waters never exhaust
themselves ? We answer, Yes, when Lake Erie shall be dried
up with all its tributary streams, then, and not till then, will
the eagle build her nest, where once this mighty river rushes to
its gigantic leap. The following is an extract from a beautiful
poem written on the splendour of the Falls, by J. S. Buck-
ingham, Esq., who indeed makes them sing
" The hand that made us la divine."
^emarkablt Jotm on Itiaprs.
" Hail Sovereign of the world of floods, whose majesty and might
First dazzles, then enraptures, then o'erawes the aching sight.
The pomp of kings and emperors, in every clime and zone,
Grows dim beneath th« splendours of thy glorious watery throne.
154 T*HE NEW WORLD; OR,
Thy reign is of the ancient days— thy sceptro from on high.
Thy birth was when the morning stars together sung witn joy.
The sun, the 'noon, and all the orbs, that shine upon thee now
Saw the first wreath of glory which twined thy infant brow,
If Niagara's rolling flood seems great to us who lowly bow,
O Great Creator of the whole, how passing great art thou ?
And from creation's grateful voice tliy hymn ascends above,
While heaven re-echoes back the chorus — " God is Love."
Accept then. O Supremely Great ! O Infinite ! O God !
From this primeval altar— the green and virgin sod—
The humble homage tliat my soul in gratitude would pay.
To Thee, whose shield has guarded me, through all my wandering way.
But after all, we may ask, what is all this earthly splendour
when compared to the immortal grandeur of the soul of
man?
'* The sun is (but) a spark of fire,
A meteor in the sky,
The soul immortal, as its Sire, shall never die."
Whatever our conceptions of the glories of the visible
creation may be, one human soul with all its vast capacities
of thought, of affection and of activity, immeasurably exceeds
them all. It alone can throw its light beyond the rays of
the most distant luminary. It shall waive its sceptre over
the ruins of suns and stars and systems. In its presence
earthly beauty fades, riches perish, and the universe of
matter disappears. It bears treasures which impoverish the
heavens, and before which the splendours of earth pale their
fires ; this gem of priceless worth, is the inheritance of the
poorest peasant equally, as of the highest prince or the
noblest p^^er. In a word
" Heaven itself came down to bleed,
To gaein a mortal's love."
'gcbtbixl in ^otk |orf, SItate of "gtia fork-
Lock Port, 9th April (Evening). — Having enjoyed to the
full — if not the feast of reason, surely " the flow of soul," —
where I stood to-day in adoring wonder and profound admira-
tion at that wonderful specimen of God's creative power and
skill, I was constrained to reiterate the language of Milton —
" These are thy glorious works, Parent of Good,
Almighty, thine this universal frame.
Thus wondrous fair, Thyself how wondrous then."
Here (Lockport), I spent a few days with my brother (whom
I found in a very happy frame of mind) and family and
among the churches, preaching outside and inside both on the
market day and on the Sabbath, which were indeed days of
the Son of Man. There is quite a revival here now, and I
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 155
believe my brother was the first fruit ; indeed, all appear to be
on the mount — ministers and office bearers, young and old.
It was fur different when I was here before. I find a glorious
work going on also in the Presbyterian Church. I went
there and spoke, and directed the earnest penitents to come
to Christ for a present salvation. " The Praying Band "
from Buffalo is here, and a fine body of men they are. One
would almost suppose they had resolved on taking the city
by storm, but " their weapons are not carnal, but mighty
through God 1 ■) the pulling down of strongholds." The
Band consists of twelve of the most devoted men in the
Methodist Church in Buffalo. Such bauds are regarded as
safety valves to the churches in America. Why not found
elsewhere ?
New York, April IS<A, 1869. — Started from Lockportyea-
terday morning, and arrived here late last night. I met some
curious characters as I came along. One rather respectable,
and in his own way pretty intelligent, who told me his
whole object through life was to make money, and that
he scarcely ever read or prayed ; but by way of contrast to
this, I met a Mr. Evans, who with his lady and child were
going to New York. I found him both highly intelligent
and pious ; he was formerly Governor of one of the terri-
tories before it was fully formed into a State ; he is now en-
gaged in the Pacific Railway Line ; he and family are Metho-
dists ; he knows Dr. Scott very well, and spoke highly of him.
It was thus cheering to meet religion and intelligence so
happily blended, where one was previously dunned by the
eternal talk of dollars and how to make them. Now I am in
my native element again, in New York among the churches,
which I find had good times during the Fall, and since I left.
We had now no small stir both in 37th and 37th Street Chur-
ches. I found out some old Irish friends and a few distant
relatives, to whom 1 endeavoured to be useful, and brought
them to the meetings. I spoke to a blind man to-day, who
sat at one of the corners in Broadway : he listened Avith the
deepest interest, and manifested all anxiety on the subject
of his salvation. A crowd gathered round immediately, and
through him I had an opportunity of preaching to them ;
they also seemed anxious to listen and learn ; and when I
had done we m;vde a collection for the blind man, and very
soon he found he lost nothing by the delay. I was greatly
156 THE NEW world; OR,
struck with tlio liberality manifested, and fully confirmed
what I said about the generosity of the New Yorkers.
April 20th, Philadelphia. — I came here according to pro-
mise and invitation by Messrs. Lang and Devine (here again
I must pause to think of the uncertainty of human life ;
the latter gentleman, then strong and vigorous, has lately
passed ofE the stage of life ; he fell like others, by sickness
in a day.) I was met on my arrival by our old Irish friend
Mr. Dardis, who cheered me by saying, " I have laid aside
500 dollars for the Irish General Mission." This was grati-
fying, inasmuch as I was not making any special applications,
although I would gladly assist the Committee in New York
to carry out their kind purposes. I shared the hospitalities
of my dear friend Mr. Devine, who showed me all manner
of kindness in bringing me to the churches where I preached,
and introducing me to the ministers and to see importjmt
parts of the city ; he brought me to to see " the old Senate
House " or " Independence Hall," where there are rare
varieties and valuable collections of antiquated memorials
of the history of the nation's independence ; there is a fine
collection of portraits of all the great actors in that great
event ; also the old large bell which is said to have been
cracked by the tremendous strokes on the day when the
independence was proclaimed 1 A very significant Scripture
inscription surrovuds the rim, " Proclaim liberty throughout
the land to all the people thereof." *' One must feel that
he is standing on classic ground," as Dr. Jobson expresses it,
" when visiting a spot like this hall, which is so intimately
associated with the memories of Washington, Franklin,
Jefferson, Hancock, Adams and other remarkable men, all
whose portraits are hung up, and are in a high state of
preservation ; that of Franklin is peculiarly attractive ; "
he rose from being a journeyman printer to sit among kings
and princes ; he was a thorough water drinker, or what
we would now call " a right-away teetotaller " or Total Ab-
stainer from all alcoholic drinks. His burial monument is
a plain slab, laid flat in Christ Church burying ground, at
the comer of Arch-street, and on it is merely inscribed his
own and wife's name thus —
Benjamin I p„^^
. ^^^ 1 171)0 ' >'
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I57
" Pleasant in their lives, and in death they were not divided."
I saw many other objects of interest in the State Hall. A
part of Washington's pew in which he and Layfette and
Franklin worshipped ; also, a portion of the stone from
which the Independence was proclaimed, and the chandalier
used in Congress on the night previous to the passing of the
Declaration. But the most remarkable of all, the chair
which was made in 1828, by order of the Board of Com-
missioners. It is composed of a portion of the mahogany
beam taken from the house built near St. Domingo in 1496,
for the use of Columbus, and which was the first ever built in
America by European hands ; the chair, also, has inserted in
it the following relics : — "A fragment of the * Tealy Elm
Tree' which stood opposite the hall ; also, a portion of
Penn' <Jottage in Letitia Court ; also, a portion of the tim-
ber of the frigate, called * Constitution,' and another of the
ship, called ' Pensylvania,' all of noted ancient date ; also part
of the Walnut Tree opposite ; also, a portion of the ' Cane-
bottom ' of one of Penn's chairs ; also, a lock of the hair of
Justice Marshall," &c. All curiously set and beautifully
wrought into this singular article of furniture; I had the honor
of sitting in it. Franklin was a great admirer of Whitfield,
whom he often heard, and he states, ' ' that on one occasion when
preaching a charity sermon (I suppose for his Orphan House
at Savannah) he actually took every particle of money I
had about me at the time, of gold, silver and brass. First of
all, says he, when he began, I thought I would only
give him the copper, for I did not fully approve of his
scheme ; as he proceeded I began to soften, and concluded
to give him the silver, but he concluded so admirably that I
emptied my pocket wholly into the collector's dish, gold and
all." The following lines may well describe Franklin when
an old man —
" Though old, he still retained
His manly sense and energy of mind ;
Virtuous and wise he was, but not severe,
His easy presence checked no decent joy.
He remembered that he once was young,
A graceful looseness, whenhe pleased put on.
And laughing could instruct."
On the day I visited the State House, the city was all a stir,
there was a remarkable display of the Society of " Odd Fel-
lows." It was their anniversary, and perhaps there could
not be less than twenty thousand, all very well dressed, and
158 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
not a drunkard among the whole lot, as far as I could see.
I hear that it is a kind of relief society in case of affliction,
or death or want of employment. Mr, Devine and myself
looked out for a quiet spot to proclaim " the sinner's Friend
and Saviour of mankind," but could not find it. I had,
however, very happy and hallowed seasons in the churches,
and this visit will not soon be forgotten by me. I assisted
Bishop Simpson at a " Ladies Pastoral Aid Society Meeting,"
lately formed and I augur much good from it. It divides the
city into districts, and it is amazing the number of visits
paid ; the number of the children brought to the Sunday
School, and adults to the house of God ; besides, the cases of
want relieved, and the number of tracts distributed, surprised
us. I should have said that it was in Philadelphia the first
Conference of Methodism was held in America on the 4th
July, 1773, and five years after its rise in New York it con-
sisted of ten preachers, who reported 11 00 members of so-
ciety in the States. This was three years before the war.
The Presbyterians and Baptists," says Dr. Jobson, " are now
next to the Methodists for numbers." The Quakers are
divided into two sections, called " Orthodox," after William
Penn, and " Hicksites," after a person of the name of Hick,
but who are Unitarians. The Germans and Roman Catholics
are formidable bodies. Churches, libraries and all other
educational and all benevolent institutions flourish and are
a praise in this city. May they multiply more and more.
On the 27th I left Philadelphia, and thankful that I ever
saw it ; there are there some of the excellent of the earth.
I called to see Dr. and Mrs. Butler, at Long Branch, on ray
return to New York. I found the Doctor holding a prayer
meeting. It reminded me of former days, when he
laboured hard and successfully in the Master's service in
Ireland. He is now appointed as Secretary to an impor-
tant Missionary Society. On the 28th I preached in
Brooklyn, in the church of which I met the son-in-law of
the late, and truly to be revered Henry Deery of Ireland. It
was quite r. treat to me to meet him and his excellent wife.
I preached on the witness of the Spirit, and an old backslid-
ing Methodist (now a Millerite) stood up and opposed the
doctrine. This was new to me, and I am sure it would be
so to St. John, who wrote as to the privilege of the wenkest
of God's children thus, " I write unto you little children,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. I59
because your sins are forgiven you for his name's sake."
Mr. Estes, the pastor, immediately took up the subject, but
the backslider took good care to avoid the controversy, by
sliding off, and left us alone in our glory ; and indeed a glori-
ous time it was ; we thanked God for this old Scriptural
doctrine of Methodism. Such persons take advantage of the
freedom of the country, and give great annoyance. I met
another instance of it in Canada, where the individual would
not escape so well as the New York spouter, only that I in-
terfered ; (and for which he gave me no thanks). He would
have been expelled very summarily, because he annoyed us
again and again, and at a time when the power of God was
evidently on the meeting ; and yet souls were saved that day.
f;^e "gtb. f. 8K. ^m^« of ^rooklgn.'
This able, and it is said, sometimes eccentric minister
lives here, and has charge of a very large church. He is
occasionally severe, but frequently very genial. " When I
was in America," he wrote, " the pulpits of the City of New
York allowed all kinds of corruption to grow within its bor-
ders Ministers grow fat in the service of the devil by
keeping silent when they should lift up their voices and ex-
pose the wickedness of men in high places. The very word
* Judge ' stinks. Gambling, fraud, lewdness, are tolerated,
and prevail. The people must rise up ; for imtil the Church
and her ministers show their abhorrence of such things, we
will be at the mercy of swindlers and thieves." This is
surely New York in shadow. On a late public occa-
sion, in speaking of the various denominations, he said : —
" I have walked and worked side by side with my Methodist
brethren, I love their zeal and love themselves, and can trust
them, and believe that God has no better servants on the
earth." Again he says, " I labour with the sound of the
other world in my ears, time is short. Men are dying,
what is to be done must he done quickly. The Judge is at
the door. If in this work 1 please men 1 am very glad, if I
displease I cannot help it, if in my impetuous zeal I am
uncharitable to other men's convictions they are not more
sorry than I am ; everything that I am or hope to be is
wrapped up in that Name which fires every pulsation of my
soul. And to fill the earth with its praise and its adoration, is
the one great underlying impulse and principle of my life,"
rgo THE NEW WORLD; OR,
€finpUv XIII,
Jinal Wt&ti ta Canaba.
" Be grateful when blessings arise,
And confide when thy troubles confound thee
In thy Father, who ruleth the skies,
And his angels shall hover around thee.
Be thine, then a foretaste of love,
?'or a season delightful and vernal,
With hereafter a summer above,
Unchanging, and bright, and eternal"
- Itonlwal.
Second visit to Montreal — Invasion of Canada — Continental war — Newly
invented weapons — Floods — Death of a young minister from Mon-
treal — Visits to the Soyal Mountain, and Roman Catholic Cathedral
— Awful blasphemy in a drinking saloon — Miseries of Intemperance
— Prescot — Rapids — Sir John Young— Barbara Heck's grave-
Visits to several places— Indian Mission — Parting with eldest
brother and family — Canada Conference — Farewell to Canada and
New York.
5AY,3rd,1869.— I left New York last Friday evening ;
stopped in Spring Field that night, and had some
pie; ising interviews, and, I trust, lastingly profit-
able both in the train, and at the hotel with several
indiviQ;\als. On Saturday I came to St. Alban's, where I
passed a .-Qost agreeable Sabbath. Our people there had
very little .'dea that so much trouble awaited them twelve
months from that time, by their town becoming the centre of
the invading party on Canada. I am glad it passed off with
such little lo3s of blood. War is sad under any circumstance,
and however justifiable it may be to those who have to
stand on the defence, the responsibility must be great indeed
which lies at the door of those who originate hostilities.
[Here 1 must digress, and ask, who can realize the untold
horrors and terrific calamities which are now transpiring on
our own Continental soil — the enormous sorrow, the fields of
slaughter, the seas of blood, the measureless woe, by means
of the deadly ''lash of arms, by the rumble of artillery,
by the strength of armies, and by the new inventions
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. l6l
for cruelty and bloodshed, and all this at such a period of
the Christian era, whose motto is " Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth peace and goodwill towards men."
How strange now that the world is so scientifically linked
together by wires, as if reserved for such a time, and as if
to allow partisans to gather round the two greatest military
nations in Europe — each to watch the death struggle, so as
to gloat over the other's destruction, because each regards the
other in the light of an enemy. It is supposed that the con-
flict will not terminate without the loss of at least half a
million of blood-bought immortal beings. "When this is
over, then this great warfare will, in some measure, be
awfully realized. We may truly say "An enemy hath
done this ; '' but what means the following, *' It must needs
be that ofEences will come, but woe unto that man by
whom the offence cometh." The widow's cry and orphan's
groan have already ascended to heaven, and how fearful will
be the account, when the Lord maketh inquisition for blood.
"The air is full of farewells to the dying,
And murmurings for the dead,
The heart of Kachael (for her children crying,
Will not be comforted.'
Oh for that consummation so devoutly to be desired, " when
the sword shall be turned into the ploughshare and the spear
into the pruning hook " — " when the bow (and arrow) shall
be broken — the spear (of conflict) cut, the (war) chariot
burned, and those that are given to war scattered," and when
" the inventors of evil things " for the destruction of human
life, such as " infernal machines," chassepots, " mitraileuses,"
and " needle guns " shall all be among the things that were,
and which never should have been. Oh sin, what horror, and
what havoc hast thou made 1 but surely it does not require the
implements of warfare, the rage of pestilence or the horrors of
famine to mow down the human family. The great scythe
of Time will ultimately do the deed, though apparently slow,
yet steady to its purpose, until the work is done ; as the poet
very properly represents the dread decree,—" We must needs
die," in the following lines : —
"Some men with swords may reap the field.
And plant fresh laurels where they kill,
But their strong nerves at last must yield ;
They tame, but one another stLU
Early or late
They stoop to fate,
And must give up their murmuring breath
When they, pale captivM, creep to death."
--^' — ' n
l62 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
Pontrtal (tonlhtucb.)
I find that the freshets (floods by melted snow) did great
damage here (Montreal) and in other parts of Canada. I also
found that one of our young ministers here had passed away
since I left last February. The last sermon which he was
preparing to preach was on the recognition of friends in
heaven, but in a few days after, he took flight to realize his
cherished theme. Among some of his last words were, " I
feel Hira precious to my soul." During my stay here I had
some precious seasons of intercourse with our worthy friend
and brother in Christ, James A. Mathewson, Esq. Some of hi?
friends also have lately passed away, " but they all died
in faith." I ascended the Royal Mount close by, with Mr.
M , at early morn, and from the top of which one would
be reminded of Moses on Mount Pisgah, viewing the land-
scape o'er. Indeed everything around us seemed calculated
to elicit serious reflections. Yonder was that immensely ex-
tensive cemetery, stretching ofE before us on the west side, and
largely sprinkled with mementos of the dead, and of the last
outward tokens of relationship and friendship. One calls them
" The dreary regions of the dead
Where all things are forgot."
But thank God, " Life and immortality are brought to light."
I also visited the great French Roman Catholic Cathedral in
Notre Z)am6-street ; these two French words signify " our
Madam or Mother." I was amazed at its extent. It is
reputed to hold ten thousand, but Dr. Jobson thinks it
would not hold more than six thousand. It is of the Gothic
style, the one which the Doctor formerly admired so much,
but I question if he would not now prefer the Greek to the
Gothic. It is well pewed, unlike the European ones, which
are always bare, and generally left in an unfinished state.
The city is rapidly rising in merchandise, and the mansions
of splendour which nestle around the base of the mountain
are multiplying weekly. At one of our meetings a woman
stated that her drunken husband, for whose conversion she
solicited prayer, had been converted since our former services,
and is now a sober and a consistent member of the church.
The following advertisement, appeared in a drinking saloon
in Montreal, some time ago, but was strongly reprobated by
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 163
the Witness newspaper- -" Choice wines, liquors and cigars."
Then follows the most blasphemous parody ever invented on
the Ten Commandments — " 1. Thou shalt not drink at any
other bar but otirs, lest thou ha called a barbarian. 2. Thou
shalt not make unto thyself any bitters, wines, liquors or
anything that is spiritual. We will practice no iniquity
on those who keep our commandments. 3. Thou shalt not
take the name of our saloon in vain. 4. Six times a day
shalt thou drink. 5. Thou shalt not ask for credit. 6.
Thou shalt not kill time outside our saloon. 7. Honour the
Rainbow saloon, that drink may be long in the land. 8.
Thou shalt not steal off, and drink at other saloons. 9.
Thou shalt not commit adulteration. 10. Thou shalt not
bear false witness against thy friends, but smile upon them
and pay for all the drinks.'' Now for shameless outrage and
singular impiety, I never heard or read of the like of this, and
I defy comparison ! No wonder the following would be
recorded as the drunkard's character : " It unmans the man,
it gives him the throat of a fish, the belly of a swine, the
head of an ass; it is the shame of nature, the extinguisher
of reason, the shipwreck of chastity, the murderer of con-
science, hurtful to the body, kills more than cannon, causes
dropsies, cataarhs, apoplexies, fills the eye with fire, the legs
with water, and turns the body into an hospital ; it makes
its subjects reckless, miserable, repulsive, blasphemous, in-
veigles promising youth, makes renegades from the churches,
and makes rogues of many, causes murder, and hangs the
murderer ; it covers with rags, makes beggars and gamblers,
and degradation follows in the fearful train in a thousand
forms." In one city alone, eighty die annually out of every
thousand. I had to bid beloved friends here, a final
adieu, perhaps imtil the resurrection morn, when I trust I
shall meet those endeared ones again, now by double ties,
both of the flesh and of the spirit, then as the angels of God.
" Wait but awhile, and we shall soar
To that celestial crowd
With songs in our Kedeemer's praise,
And hallelujah's loud.
And meet where sorrows never pain,
With Christ and with his saints to reign."
After I left Montreal I passed on to Prescott and Ottawa,
and had old friendships revived, renewed and strengthened.
I also passed on from Brookville to Kingston by steamboat
164 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
in order to see the thousand islands, but Dr. Jobson in his
travels says there are at least 1,600 islands, and Dr. Dixon
states that the term " thousand," is a definite number put
for an indefinite. The whole scene, for some thirty or forty
miles is enrapturing. The day was beautiful, and the St.
Laurence was as smooth as glass. All was picturesque and
lovely. The islands are of various sizes, some containing
fifteen acres, and others only just visible, and of every form.
It would repay a voyage across the Atlantic to gaze upon this
magnificent street of water. It is more like Killarney than
anything I have seen, but " distance (here) lends (greater)
enchantment to the view." The shooting of the rapids is
an adventurous experiment, and sometimes disastrous, as it
was, the week after I came up. The very same vessel I
came up in, on its return, was upset at the rapids, and nearly
swamped. Much property was destroyed.
^apibs again.
Dr. Jobson regrets not having the chance of " a shoot,"
but I do not. Dr. Dixon was more fortunate than either of
us ; he shot them with rapturous awe. He writes : " In
the course of the day we passed down the Rapids, ren-
dered classical by Tom Moore's celebrated Canadian Boat
Song," or rather hymn. One stanza is as follows : —
" Faintly as tolls the evening chime,
Our voices keep tune, and our oars keep time ;
Soon as the woods on shore look dim,
We'll sing at St. Anne's our parting hymn.
Why should we yet our sail unfurl ?
There is not a breath, the blue wave to curl ;
But when the wind blows off the shore,
Oh ! sweetly we'll rest on our w«ary oar.
Utawa's tide ! this trembling moon
Shall see us float over the surges soon.
Chorus :
lUow breezes, blow, the stream runs fast,^
The rapids are near, and daylight's past."
*' They are perfectly frightful, says the Doctor, the descent is
considerable, the river narrow, the current impetuous, the
rocks turning the stream into foaming and dashing fury like
the waters of the sea on a shallow shore ; a perfect know-
ledge of the channel is necessary for the pilot, a keen eye, a
strict and vigilant watchfulness ; if the ship from any cause
should refuse to obey the helm in the smallest degree, destruc-
tion would be inevitable. In one place the bed of tho river
is so abrupt and the angle so acute that one would suppose
the vessel must go headlong against the shore. Such how-
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 165
ever was the skill of our pilot, that at this point we suddenly
wheeled round with the current, and passed safely the whole
course of the Rapids." Well done, Doctor; anything, even
life itself, for romance. But of how many may it be said :
Past downward they're dashing,
Each fearless eye flashing,
Though danger awaits them on every aide ;
Yon rock — see it frowning,
Tliey strike— they are drowning !
And downward they sweep with tlie merciless tide.
^'uii to Sir |o^n §oimc(. — Barbara fietk's d^tnbt.
At Ottawa I had an interesting interview and conversa-
tion with the Governor General of Canada, Sir John Young,
and also his lady. He is now Lord Lisgar, lately promoted
to the peerage. If I could raise him any higher I would
do so. He has been an unwavering friend of mine since I
first knew him in 1835, at Bailieborough, County Cavan.
The Methodist parson at Ottawa understands the Italian
language, and would go to Italy as a Missionary if required ;
and likely, it may yet be so. Visited dear friends in Brock-
ville, Kingston, Prescott, and from this last mentioned
place I went to Blue Stone, four miles distant, to see the
burial ground of Paul and Barbara Heck. It is a nice spot,
and the stones are in a fine state of preservation. Here I
met their grandson, George Heck, Esq., J.P. Passed through
Belleville, Peterborough, Brighton, Port Hope, (here, it is
said, one of the best women in Canada resides, she left the
Church of Rome about two years since,) Toronto, Guelph,
Gait, Paris, London. I met the Rev. George M'Namara in
Peterborough. He was formerly a Roman Catholic Priest
in the West of Ireland ; he is now nineteen years in our
ministry in Canada, and sustains his position with much
credit. He told me that Mr. Ouseley was the first Protestant
minister whom he ever met. He was invited to dine with
him at the house of a Protestant gentleman, and the obser-
vations which Mr. Ouseley made on that occasion, made a
deep impression on his mind. It was on a Friday, and the
conversation on fasting resulted in conviction, and the seed
thus sown bore fruit many years afterwards in Canada !
How many such cases will only be unfolded in the light of
eternity ? And thus has God, again and again, put honour
l66 THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
on the Irish General Mission. In Gait I met Dr. Freshman
again, and his son and other members of the family. I
was very much pleased with them. I spoke in the open
air in most of the places mentioned ; also in Florence on
the Queen's birthday. Here I found my dear cousin, Charles
Graham, and grandnephew " to the Apostle of Kerry." I also
visited the Indian Station, about twenty miles from London.
It is called the Muncey Mission ; I posted it all through,
as I had not seen one before. I found a large house, like one
of the old Charter School houses in Ireknd, very roomy,
built pj^rtly by the Government and partly by subscription.
There is a minister in charge; his name is Tupper;
reminding me of his namesake, who wrote the beautiful
work called " Proverbial Philosophy." The following
would stimulate any missionary in his work —
Labour Is good for man, bracing up his energies to conquest :
And without it, life in dull, the man perceiving himself useless
For wearily the body groaneth like a door on rusty binges,
And the grasp of the mind is weakened as the talons of a cnged culture.
M. F. Tu2)per.
I found about forty — including squaws and young lads — as
scholars, and several of them are learning trades. I preached
without an interpreter as they understood English a little.
I was, in this case, better o£E than Mr. Punshon, when
preaching lately at an Indian Camp Meeting in Canada. I
would pity the poor fellow who had to interpret for him.
1 bade a final adieu to my friends in London, in Sc Mary's,
in Clinton and in Goderich ; here all my relatives met me.
It was an amazing time, both on the Sabbath and following
day. Mr. Poole, the pastor, did everything in his power to
make my farewell visit agreeable to me and my friends. We
had an open air service, and had many of the ministers who
were on their way to Conference. I found it hard to part
with my eldest brother, now a double brother, in the spirit
as well as in the flesh. I trust God will keep him and his
to the end. I returned to Toronto to attend the Conference,
and came through Stradford, where I took the street again,
and on to Dundas, a beautiful town, where I spent a pre-
cious night with dear friends, allied both by spiritual and .
kindred ties,
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 167
Canabn €o\xUttritt.
June 2nrf, 1869.— Conference Cliapel, 12 o'clock, Public
Prayer Meeting. — The moment I entered I was recognised
by the President, Mr. Punshon, who had me to join in the
devotional exercises of the public Conference prayer meet-
ing. The feeling was very hallowed. I had just received a
letter a little before from Ireland, informing me of the
death of our dear Irish friend, the Rev. Henry Price. It pro-
duced a very solemn feeling on my mind ; to think of convers-
ing with him a short time before I left Ireland, and of being so
warmly commended to God by him in prayer, and now to
see his friendly face no more. I was called to a seat on
the platform with the President and the other official senior
brethren. I attended the Conference for four days ; on the
foiirth day I was introduced to the Conference, to take my
final leave of the good brethren, to whom I felt as much
attached as if I had been for years among tham. I was
received every where in the most cordial manner, and our
mutual regret was that I could not continue longer in each
place. After I spoke, several brethren referred to my
visit and labours among them, for the few months I was in
Canada ; and then a resolution was moved by Dr. Jeffers,
and seconded by Dr. RTcrson, expressive of the thanks of the
Conference for having prolonged my visit, &c., whereas, it
was I that was laid urder the deepest tribute of gratitude
for their kind forbearance rnd love. I then took my formal
farewell, the brethren standing. They afterwards presented
me with a token of brotherly love ; and they do love as brethren.
On the Sabbath I assisted the president and senior brethren
in the ordination of fourteen young men to the work of the
ministry ; and it was truly a happy and hallowed occasion,
especially while the president delivered his charge. Under it
I was greatly afEected, and so were all the brethren, young and
old, as indeed the whole congregation. But when he uttered
the fol wing very touching sentences, in which he graphically
compared the gospel minister to the wounded military flag
bearer, and represented him as reeling and falling, the efEect
was thrilling. " But ere his fingers stiffen," said he, " he
has tossed the torn flag to his comrades, who bear it proudly
away from the field, still watching its safety, a light spreads
l68 THE NEW WORLD; OR,
over the blanched face of the dying hero, and fires his
glazing eye, you may catch the last whisper from the con-
queror's lips, ere they are still for ever, * I am dying,' says
he, * but I have kept the colours ' ! Faithful unto death.
Brethren, Grd has given you a banner that it may be dis-
played, because of the truth, through evil report and through
good report, in the breach, in the battle field ; however al-
lured, however frightened, however outnumbered ; hurt by
the archers, bleeding from many wounds, exhausted with
the toil of conflict, you ?ire still to grasp the banner, nor
dare to let it go, until by your latest effort you transfer it
to other hands ; torn it may be, bvit not dishonoured ; then
cry apostlewise, " I have fought the good fight, I have finished
my course, I have kept the faith, henceforth there is laid
up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the
righteous judge, shall give me at that day," and what a
crown I Behold I and the children whom thou hast given
me ; " these will be the crown of your rejoicing in the day
of the Lord Jesus." No wonder that he wasalmost exhausted ;
he had to take rest for several days.
And here I must pause ; sincerely and mournfully,
I could bedew this page, and the mourning card enclosed to
me, with tears of sympathy in my dear friend's present
bereavement and sad affliction ; his dear partner is gone, but
safely gone to be for ever with her Lord. She was indeed, a
help- mate, and meet for him, and for the church of God also.
With what diligence did I see her pursue her hallowed toil of
Sabbath School instruction in Adelaide Church, on the Sab-
bath I preached there. I did thank God for her as a rich gift,
second only to himself, to the church in Canada ; but " she
is not (here), for God hath taken her." I bade her farewell
on this Sabbath.
I preached that afternoon, (Sabbath 6th June,) in Queen's
Park, to about 1,500 people, and later in the evening, about
four miles off, at Devonport ; thus ended my last Sabbath and
my last day in Canada.
Monday, June 1th. — Prepared at early mom for New York.
Bade all friends a hearty farewell ; and before I left I called
at the book-room and found the following beautiful descrip-
tion of Mr. Punshon's charge yesterday, in print, thus ; —
" The printer's wt can convey to the reader no ade(}uat§
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 169
idea of the matchless eloquence of this charge. It was not ,
the glitter and tinsel sometimes called oratory, which dazzles
by its fitful glare ; but that higher power of genius kindled
at the heavenly altar, which, while it illuminates the intel-
lect goes down into the heart, until it touches the spring of
tears. The grandeur of the thoughts, clothed in exquisitely
beautiful imagery, delighted, engaged, and inspired the
breathless attention of the audience. But when the preacher
neared some thrilling climax, the electric tide-wave of hal-
lowed feeling, by expressed emotion, rolled over the congre-
gation as the wind sweeps over a field of golden grain. He
closed by a peroration, amid sounds of subdued weeping,
broken here and there by bursting sobs, that could not be
repressed, and constraining all to feel, and almost to exclaim,
' Master, it is good for us to be here.' " In taking my fare-
well to-day of Canada, I must say, that the great desire of
my heart in coming, was the conversion of my two brothers :
this has been fully met, thank God. I strove in some humble
measure to " delight myself in the Lord, and he gave me thus
the desire of my heart," for which I do again offer him afresh
all my ransomed powers; which I trust my future life will fully
justify. I found out many of my relatives, but there are
many more I could not make out for want of time. I trust
God will find them all out, and bring every one of them
into his fold. Canada is likely to become a great country ;
the materials are great, her towns are becoming more solidly
built than before, and even more so, than in the States.
The country is fertile ; its water power is amazing, and in
great variety, such as its wells, its fountains, its gurgling
streams, its majestic rivers, and its ocean-like lakes. Its
forests are almost interminable. It abounds also in mineral
wealth; its agricultural productions are immense ; and not-
withstanding the severity of the winter months, the climate
is capable of ripening and maturing most of the cereals
quicker than any where else, and some of them are brought
to greater perfection than even beyond the border. I wish it
all manner of good speed, fiscally^ socially, agriculturally, poli-
tically, morally, and above all religiously; and I heartily pray,
that it may be blessed a thousand fold more than what it is.
Amen,
170 THE WBW WORLD ; OR,
^n\bui iir, inb 4('ift^^ ^rj^ntlart from Hjitb} j^ork.
ilV(ru» I'or^, June Hth. — Left Toronto yenterdny momincr for
thin city, en route for homo, irwefit homo I I travelled nil nig}it
I had two hours dt-lny at the city of Hamilton, in Canada,
during which I called to «eo a few relatives and Bomo of
my Christian frionds ; I bade my cousin and Miss Feely
farewell, &c. I had, also, a short interval at Lockport,
where my brother and son awaited my arrival, as did also
the pastor of the church. I regretted greatly my inability
to remain a few days with them, but the Irish Conference
approaching, forbade my delay ; I trust, and have a strong
hope, to meet him and his, beyond the flood of time, where we
shall greet each other in the promised land. I had a very
agreetible travelling companion from Toronto, in the rail
car, last night, all through. He is a member of the Presby-
terian body, and seems to appreciate Methodism very much.
He told me that he was frequently subject to a liver com-
plaint, and got no remedy as effectual as dandelion, either
the extract from the root, or a pill, occasionally about the size
of a pea; it is sold in small pots — this may serve some poor
sufferer. I arrived here, (New York) at 11 o'clock, a.m.,
and preached a farewell sermon in the evening, and had
many of my old friends to bid me a last farewell. We had
a very precious season; and oh, how did the worthy pastor,
Mr. M'AUister, commend me to Him
•' Who rides upon the stormy slry,
And oitlms the roaring seas."
RP-^INT VISIT fd AMERICA. ift
Cfjaptrr XIV.
" T.lfu'R char.tien like light
Sprpftd smillriKly »'<»■.
I'.ut Htars approached become more bright.
And home is life s own Ktar,
The world hath its delights,
And its delusions too ;
Hut home, to calmer bliss invites,
More tranquil and more true.
Htill there's another home ;
For which we all should sigh,
A home, a loving Father's home,
A home beyond the sky."
Genaine Friendship — "Homeward Bound"— Bids farewell— A Jew for
berth companion — Conversations with passengers— Sabbath ser-
vices — Merry andrews — Extract from Evangeliit — Nears the shore
— Crookhaven seen — American missionary and wife on their way
to Constantinople — Curious notions of religion — Queenstown, Cork
— Conference reception — Reflections on the visit.
p! is not true of genuine friendship that "Absence
makes the heart grow fonder." Whatever poetry
there may be in the sentiment, I think there is more
of imagination than reality about it. There may be more
anxiety f by reason of distance and time, to enjoy the sweets
of solid friendship again, but I believe also that fellowship
and friendship are always strongest and best by reason of
proximity; this union constitutes the bliss of heaven as
well as of earth. Our Lord said, " I go to prepare a place
for you," and then adds, that " where I am there ye may be
also," and again, " Where I am there also shall my servMits
be ; therefore let not your heart be troubled." " For ever
with the Lord," and for ever with one another also, where
all in amity join, and love with a passion like his.
" With the prospect of meeting for ever
With the bright gates of heaven in view,
From the dearest on earth we may sever,
And smile the delightful adieu."
But this prospect does not lessen or destroy the joys of earthly
ties, and kindred relationship ; religion both strengthens and
sanctifies them. And when we can answer the question put
\^?, THE NEW WORLD ; OR,
to Peter, as ho did, All is well. " Lovest thou me more than
these ? " " Lord thoti knowest all things, thou knowest that
I love M««." With those thoughts I panted for home again I
June 9th, 1869. — Now on the watery world once more,
and *' homeward bound." I am in the Cunard steamship
called " the Java." Having spent part of yesterday, and a
few hours of this morning in bidding farewell to as many of
my relatives and Christian friends as I possibly could, I was
accompanied to the shore by the friend who lives in Fort-
hamilton, J. A. Crawford, Esq., and to whom I made reference
in a former part of this work ; his attention was of the greatest
service to me, as he knew every place so well ; he does not
forget his aunt's (Mrs. C's) care of him when his parents went
to America, nor does his brother William in Covington, near
Cincinnati. I pray that both themselves and their families
and all my other friends, may obtain " mercy of the Lord in
that day and be found of Him in peace." The mails are
now on board ! the steam up, the anchor lifted, the command
given, and in a moment o£E we start to Erin's shore again.
I said. Farewell, Columbia ! land of light and land of liberty.
I said again, Farewell ! May thy springs, upper and nether,
never fail ! When I went down to regulate my cabin berth,
I found I had a Jew for my companion, a nice young man
of the name of *' Solomon." He bad surely one of the
characteristics of that name — " peaceful," but I fear he
wanted the other, and far more important, that of *' perfect."
He told me he was saved from a wreck some time before,
in which 360 persons were drowned ; he listens attentively
to my views of Christianity, and in a far different spirit
than the German Jew, with whom I conversed on my voyage
out; he also reads my Bible, which I leave in his way.
The weather is charming. The summer heat began jut*
as I left New York ; and I so far escaped the very hot
weather, both in coming and now returning. I gazed again,
as I was leaving this beautiful harbour, on the rich and
splendid scenery which stretches along on every side. If
such be the splendour of those outskirtlngs of God's creation
in this sinful world of ours. Oh, what must be the glory of
th ^.elestial palace, the Imperial city, the metropolis of the
universe — the residence of Him, who with equal ease
" Gives lustre to an insect's wing,
And wheels bis throne upon tlie rolling worlds."
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 1{^3
I find a good many paaaengera on board. No steerage, some are
returning to the land of their nativity to look for the restora-
tion of health, lost in the acquisition of earthly riches, others aa
tourists to the old country, and some as merchant princes
to renew their stock in trade, others diversified by age and
clime, and of varied religious opinions, and some to whom a
serious thought would seem to be a stranger. Laying my
lines of observation, and guaging my dimensions of character,
that I might fall on the most hopeful cases, I believe I was
at least, in many particulars, happily directed. But some
stood aloof altogether.
Thursday, 10th. — Now, hard away to ocean's boundless
deep ; sea, and sky, and steam, seem to vie, and combine,
to speed our rapid course. Looking up, around, beneath, by
night, by day, in sunshine, moonlight, starlight, or in shade,
all, all call for grateful adoration, and prompt the exclama-
tion with glad heart and free —
" How beautiful thy breast of blue.
When mirrowing the azure hue ;
Of the unclouded sky;
And w)ien, in the still noon of night,
Beflecting all the points of light,
That stud heaven's canopy.
Conversed to-day with an afflicted young lady (Philadelphia).
Her mother and sister accompany her ; they expect to be
away for some three years. A pretty good while I guess,
for the husband and father to give up all ; but what will not
kind and Christian parents do, to save their children from a
premature grave, and the more so if they should be unpre-
pared to die !
Sabbat^— Sfac Serbites.
'■ Another holy day of rest returns,
Dear day of rest, and meditation sweet ; >
Ne'er may'st thou find my heart so treacherouB,
As to prefer the worldlings day to thine.
But may each weeltly visit find my soul
More raised above earth's gilded vanities,
Till the last Sabbath of thy waiting saints —
The endless rest, which Christ has promised, come.
That glorious rest above, O may I bid thee welcome."
Sabbath, 13th. — About half way already, such is our
speed in four days ; we had service on board to-day in the
saloon. It began at 10^ a.m. The opening hymn was
" Awake my soul and with the sun," &c. The doctor, a
well disposed young man, read the prayers, I responded, and
read the lessons, and then preached from Mai. iii. 16, 17. —
174 THE NEW world; OR,
" Then they that feared the Lord spake one to another," &c.
The character, the privileges, and the reward of the people
of God, conatituted the burden of the address. After the
service I heard of an Irish lady being unwell, and at the
instance of her son, who is a Roman Catholic, I visited and
prayed with her, which she never forgot all the way ; we
conversed freely, and I trust in the Lord impressions were
made, which time will not obliterate. Her son, also, a kind
of a frc3-thinker, took the pledge to abstain from alcoholic
drinks, which, to say the least, mitigated his bill of fare to
what it would otherwise be. Of him and of one of his com-
panions I might adopt the following lines, as truly descrip-
tive of their habits, at least since they came on board —
" We drank the richest draughts, I
And ate whate'er was good :
Fish and flesh, and fowl and fruit,
Supply our hungry mood ;
But never think of the wretched poor,
Who starve for want of food."
But now I have some hope of this Merry Andrew, for such
he really was, and in some respects, is so titill. The words
merry and Andrew were applied to Andrew Borde, a facetious
jester and speech-maker, in the time of Henry the VHI.
One would really imagine that the old fashion of King's
jesters had come again. And when Dr. John Doran writes
a new edition of his History of Court Fools, pubUshed in
1858, I think if he applied to the captains of some of the
American Line Steamers, they could now and again sup-
ply him with a few additional joculators, clowns, jesters,
and buffoons, that is, if those whom I witnessed be a speci-
men. One would almost think that " Will Somers,"' '« John
Heywood," and " Archie Armstrong," the great old jesters,
had risen from the dead. Some say that " Wallet," the jester
was paid by Queen Victoria ; but I doubt it. It is truly
painful to witness humanity twisted, and turned, and tor-
tured into so many curious shapes and forms ; but it is said,
in justification, by some, " that it was only to enjoy the
utility of laughter, which is so promotive of digestion,"
that led kings and great men to employ such singular characters.
VHiatever kings may have required in this way, I cannot
8£iy, bat certainly our company seemed at no loss for such
Blimuhmts to enhance the appetite. At the conclusion of
the voyage, however, I must say that I had the satisfaction
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 175
of witnessing a grent change for the better, nnd more seriotiB-
ness than I expected. How true is Young's deBcription of
such triflers —
" Man sleeps and man alone ; and man, whose fato,
Fate irroverslble. entire, extreme,
Endless, hair-hung, breczo-shakon, o'er the gulph ;
A moment trembles ; drops ! and man, for whom
All else is an alarm ; man, the sole cause
Of this surrounding storm ! and yet he sleeps,
As the storm rock'd to rest.—
O for yesterdays to come ! "
Sabbath evening^ ISth. — 1 conversed freely to-day with
a man who is returning for his health after being out four-
teen years, and realized some property, but neglected the
one thing needful ! I pressed on his attention tht principle
which, if obtained, secures both worlds — namely, the godli-
ness which has promise of the life that now is, &c. I was
requested to hold another service this evening, although
such is not usual on ship board ! We sung " Rock of Ages,"
&c., and I preached from Rom. viii. 32, " He that spared
not his own Son," &c.. The Giver, the Gift, the Encourage-
ment, and then sung " for a thousand tongues to sing," &c.
I trust some hallowed results may follow ! The lady from
Philadelphia and her two daughters are particularly attentive,
and one of them is very serious. The mother knows Presi-
dent Grant and many of the notabilities of the day, and also
Bishop Simpson, and often heard him preach.
Monday, 1 4kA, Tuesday I5th, and Wednesday, 16tk were
mostly spent in writing. I wrote a long letter for the Evan-
gelist which appeared in the July number of 1869. Here
is an extract : " I am now only about 500 miles from land,
and I found it good to give myself to fasting and prayer (the
former perhaps too much neglected by us all). My brethren
are just now assembling in Cork, ~une 16th. I pray that the
Most High may crown this remarkable Conference (rendered
doubly so by the death of Brother Henry Price) with the
most signal tokens of His presence and power and blessing."
[I may digress to say that the Conference thus alluded to in
Cork, under the Presidency of the Rev. R. Hall, was one
of the most singular for revival power which I witnessed
for some years in Ireland. His companion, the Rev. Thomas
Vasey, was also made a great blessing, and the year which fol-
lowed resulted in great ingathering, and of soul saving power.]
f;^ THE NEW WORLt) ; OR,
Another extract is found in the November number, 1869.
It also refers to the above dates — " We had a large class of
respectable passengers. I conversed with many of them.
One Methodist backslider promised to return to his church.
A swearer promised to swear no more. A drunkard took
the pledge and ceased to drink. I preached three times, and
many sought counsel.''
" Jeaus, I fain would find,
Thy zeal for God in me, ,
Tliy yearning pity for mankind,
Tljy burning cliarity."
Thursday, 17th Within a day's sail of shore. I am
striving now to make the most of my time. I lent books,
and am receiving them back. Those who wish to do good
on ship board would do well to bring a nice selection of
good books for lending — many will read there, who wouii
not think of doing so on shore, and will be gratcy^td
also. We have an American missionary and his wife on
board, and on his way to Constantinople ; he is to take
charge of a native seminary as its professor ; he appears a
worthy man ; he prayed at the Sabbath evening service.
Friday, l^th. — Early this morning, land ahead. I suppose
Crookhaven. Old Ireland again. All a stir, some preparing
for Queenstown Harbour, and beautiful for situation it is,
though not yet the joy of the whole earth, still to me it is
now one of the spots on earth most dearly anticipated, as the
connecting link of home! And of Ireland I will still say,
although by some despised, and by others pitied as the soil
of contention, of cruelty, and of blood, thaiik God for be-
loved Ireland, " great, glorious, and (I trust we shall soon be
able to add, in the best sense of the word), free ! "
" Island of beauty, dimming not with years,
Isle rich in blessings, strewn by heaven's own band,
My native isle, o'er thoe I shed fond tears.
Again I hall thee Erin, sweet fatherland."
I met an old gentleman who said he preferred quiescent faith,
and that it would resolve itself into assurance, like a prin-
ciple of development, that he neither liked subjective nor
objective faith. In vain I told him of the direct benefits
flowing from justification, adoption, and sanctification in this
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 177
life ! — " Assurance of God's love, peace of conscience and
joy in the Holy Ghost." I also met a ludy who told me
that she read and believed " Kenan's Life of Christ," but
that a short time ago, when she thought she was dying, she
threw it away altogether, for downright fear 1 It would not
stand the test, reminding one of the poet's truism —
"Conscience makes cowards of ua all,'
or, Scripturally speaking, " When I af&icted them, then they
sought me."
Another lady said, " I can turn whenever I like."
Thus, the diversity of ideas which are spread abroad, is
amazing. At sea, people are led to think that they have
a license to speak out their minds more freely than they
would do on terra Jirma, or at home. We had a thanks-
giving service before we reached the shore, for a most
favourable and almost unparalleled quick passage. I was
thankful indeed to see the willingness with which this
was hailed. I spoke from Ps. cxvi. 12, "What shall I
render unto the Lord for all his benefits ? I will take the
cup of salvation, and call on the name of the Lord," &c.
We landed at Queenstown, 18th June, at 8|- a.m., making
only eight and a half days from the time we started
from New York, one of the shortest trips known for years,
and one of the smoothest, and no accident from beginning
to the end. In an hour or two after I landed, I was in the
Conference in Cork, and was hailed with all the warmth of
a genuine Hibernian cead miUefaliha greeting. I could only
thank my bretbT-en by the starting tear of gratitude. I hope
I may prove faithful to God and to his Church. Heard
from home ; all's well, thank God.
Cork, Saturday, l^th. — How soon may life's sweetest joys
be bittered, and sunshine clouded. I have just heard of the
death of a dear niece who died in Blackrock, Dublin, almost
the very hour I landed, at least a very short time after she
heard of my safe arrival. She came from the country to
have the best medical skill, and to be with her aunt ; she
wished greatly to live to see me, but she had the richest
spiritual sympathies, and her end was triumphantly glorious.
12
178 THE NEW world; OR,
lltfledions on mg ^mi to ^mema.
" O that witli John's afTection, '
1 could my Master trace,
Unmoved by man's in8i>ection
I ty man's reproach or praise,
Or If my deed [ mention
In true simplicity, .
Kejoice that my intention
Is only known to Thee."
I left home, conscious that my motive was pure, and the
Lord opened my way at the very beat time, to accom-
plish every purpose. In the heat of summer the inconvenience
of travel would be most unpleasant, besides I could have had
no such access to the churches as I had. In general, nearly
all who can leave for some country retreat, do so ; and as to
my own friends, the visit was all I could wish for in this
world, and just in the right time, in *' the Fall," when the
churches look out for special visitations of divine influence
from on high. From beginning to end, I could day I had
not one hour's sickness or an unhappy mistake, except the
loss of a moneyless pocket-book, which contained some
papers of reference. I may therefore magnify the Lord
and speak good of his name ; and if I have referred to per-
sonalities too often, it was not from any feeling of egotism,
but that of gratitude. My heartfelt language is —
"I nothing have, I nothing am, ,
My all is in the bleeding Lamb,
Both now and evermore.'
Meeting so many on ship board, to whom I may have
been in some humble way a messenger of good, afforded me
the satisfaction of recognizing the special providence of God.
I may say that the young Jew, who was in the same berth
cabin, promised to read the Bible, and especially the New
Testament, and I do trust he may have since been led to him
" of whom Moses and the prophets wrote." I have also to
adore the same benevolent providence in granting my own
little family at home, all the surroundings of his care, by
which they were kept day and night from danger and un-
necessary fear. I could have mentioned many names
more prominently than I did, for acts of kindness and
hospitality, but I knew that they would not wish any
allusion to be made to them, feeling, as they kindly said,
that they were but too glad to show any attention to me,
not only on my own account, but on account of their love
RECENT VISIT TO AMERICA. 1:79
for Ireland and Irish Methodism, If I have said any-
thing which may hare appeared unduly strong, I regret it.
I could have heightened the painful picture of parts of New
York a hundred-fold by a reference to the Kev. H. W.
Beecher's awful unfoldings of judicial corruption, and of
other writers in regard to the fearfully demoralized condition
of so many of the young of both sexes, and of the plans for
deception ; but I feared to tabulate the numerical records
lest I should sully, rather than serve, the mind of the
reader. At all events I think enough was said to secure my
object, namely, to call forth all the energies of the Church
of God in that great and growing city, and also all the
prayerful and earnest anxiety possible, on the part of Chris-
tian visitors, in order to contribute, as far as they can, by
counsel and by deed, to lessen the woes, to redress the
grievances and to mitigate the sorrows of our sin-stricken
brotherhood and sisterhood in those worst parts of the city,
and everywhere else. There is a voice in God's dealings
with former cities and nations, when the cup of their guilt
fills up. Witness Paris just now, and who can tell when
God may apply the measuring rod to ourselves, and to other
cities and nations also, even those who will not serve the Lord !
I will quote the following trite and truly apposite observations
embodied in a speech delivered by the Eev. Joseph W.
M'Kay, of Dublin, at the late Leeds Wesleyan Missionary
Anniversary. Speaking of Continental changes, he says :
** All these things have been brought about by God in his
own method, so as to put to the test the faith, love, patience
and resolution of the Christian Church ; that the Church
was now on its trial. These wonderful political events did not
convert sinners to God (being more punitive than salvable),
but they were the means by which God opened up the way
for the work of conversion, and it remained for the Church
to take up the work thus thrust into its hand." I trust I
will never forget to pray for America, and especially for
America, religiously and Methodistically ; when I think of
her bishops, it is with the profoundest veneration, and now
with the deepest emotion and heartfelt sorrow, seeing that
their grand episcopal circle was so narrowed lately by death.
They treated my humble visit with very great kindness. And
to them, and to the ministerial brethren whom I met, and
iSo- THE NEW WORLD, &C.
to the many families in New York, Philadelphia and
Cincinnati, &c., in the States : and to those in Goderich,
?Tamilton, Toronto, Kingston, Brockville, Prescott and
Montreal, &c., in Canada, whoso hospitalities I enjoyed,
I here offer my heartfelt ilianks. The many friendrfiips
I formed, will, I trust, be renewed on the blissful shore
of eternity. I had their prayers, and I have them still,
and they have mine ; but, alas, I have had already to per-
form the mournful duty of writing letters of condolence
to several of them : — but such is life. " I went as a
strange to a strange land,^' as William Arthur said, '> and
they took me in." America will ever be dear to me for
the obligations it has laid me under ; and with Mr. Arthur
again I can say, '' Its very soil is dear to me, for in that
soil lie many of those that were very dear to me on earth,''
but it matters not in what point of the compass or part of
the earth, the dead in Christ shall lie, or from what part
they shall rise, if we can say with Job—-'* For I know that
my Bedeemer liveth, and that He shall stand in the latter
day upon the earth," &c. It is also written : " Many that
sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake,*' &c. And
again, *' Those that sleep in Jesus shall God bring with
him." Till then, I say again, friends in Christ, farewell.
" Crave, the guardian of our dust.
Grave the treasury of Che Kkies,
Every atom of thy trust
Shall again with Christ arise.
Hark, the judgment trumpet calls,
baul rebuild thy house of clay.
Immortality thy walls.
Eternity thy day."
'/^q/^^
<^^^^
; ', 1 1
APPENDICES.
APPENDIX A.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR AMERICAN EMIGRANTS.
I. CANADA. ,
" Though to Britain is due, love, loyal and true-
Where the bones of our fathars rest; /'V-
. Yet, this forest land , with its rivers grand, ' ■'
■' Is the land tLat wo love the best.
; Here our sons in prirl 9 grow side by side,
•■; ■ The joy of our peaceful hours ;
And our daughters fair, as the wild flowers rare, ■ ' : '
.: That bloom in our forest bowers.
We are freemen good ; not a slave ever stood, >'.,■
On our loved Canadian soil ;
No tyrant's power can withhold for an hour
The fruits of our honest toil." — Dewart.
Emigrants to Canada — Inducements to emigrants by a great lover of the country ;
also the opinion of an old settler— Extent of the country — Laws, <feo. — Pro-
Bptrity and peace — Pas.-ftge out — Ports— Price of Homesteads— Lands —
Wages — Provisions — Climate — Seasons — Geniality of Spring — Miner^— Pro-
ductions — Flowers and ft i!it — Emigration to the States — Voyage and landing
of steerage emigrants— Rate of wages — Kesources of th« States— Political
rights — Enterprize — Uaniuruptcy and book-keeping,
INDUCEMENTS.
A lover of Canada writes this year, 1870, from that country, as
follows : " Hundreds of immigrants continue to find their way to our
shores ; let them come and welcome, we have plenty of room for them ;
and if they are willing to work and share some of our hardships, they
will find Canada to he the best country in the world for a poor, industrious
man, but the worst country in the world for a lazy spendthrift, or one
who is not willing to turn his hand to whatever may come in his way."
It is very likely such would soon meet the following lazy man's recep-
tion — from John Ploughman Talk —
■' A good for nothing lazy lout.
Wicked within, and ragged without.
Who can bear to have him about ?
Turn him out, turn him out."
An old settler states, " I have visited many foreign countries and I have
seen many more picturesque and abundant in wealth, but I have not seen
one spot to make me regret that I made Canada my home.'' Another
said, *' Those who would determine to settle in Canada may be sure of
finding in the towns and settlements all the comforts of the old cities of
Europe ; and in the newly opened parts of the country, there is a field
of industry, and a sure return for labour, and more so it they would bring
a moderate capital." Still there are hardships to be encountered, and tem-
porary privations to be endured, especially by the moneyless emigrant on
bis first arrival ; but these are mere stimulants to success, and as a rule,
those who have now acquired wealth and distinction in Canada, are those
who came here hungry and pennyless ; and I have kjiown it fre^uentljr,
i84
APPENDIX.
that those who returned to England or Ireland to spend the remainder
of their days in luxury, were not long hack, until they sighed for Canada
again.
EXTENT OF COUNTBY, LAWS, &o.
The following is from the same authority, who writes thus, " People ■
in the old world have no correct idea of the extent of British North
America. The whole population, including Ontario or the Upper Pro-
vince, Quehec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Prince Edward's Island,
amounts to ahout four and a-half millions. In those places there are
about 3,685 post-oflBces in ' the Dominion.' " And we have all manner
of Irish names for the tovras and townships — we have Antrim, Athlone,
Aughrim, Auburn, Avoca, Ballinafad, Ballymote, Bandon, Belfast, Birr,
&c., &c., alphabetically, down to Wicklow. These generally show from
what part of Ireland the first settlers came, as they gave those places the
names with which they were most familiar in Ireland. What a race of
Celtic blood must have paved the way into those Canadian forests ; they
acted as enterprising pioneers, and brought with them their associations
and ideas of clanships, battles, fields and floods, justifying the following
couplet —
" W« will leave our jpemory on mounts and floods,
And the daring of our pathway on boundless woods."
To the youthful emigrant I would sijy, come to Canada, but if you are
well off at home, I would also say, stay at home. Here, by complying vrith
specified terms, you will obtain a free grant of land ; and under the
" Homestead laws," you cannot alienate it from your family, and no
child has a prior claim, but you may dispose of it with their consent. The
country is almost boundless, the soil is fertile, the climate healthy, the
Bcenery beautiful, and in some places, majestic ; but better still, the pro-
ductions are plentiful and varied. As to locality it is a matter of choice.
Protestants generally take the upper, and Catholics the lower province.
The lines of peace and abundance, stretch from oi.e end of the dominion
to the other. No wars, no epidemics, no heavy taxation, no famine, no
disaster, no tyranny, no foreign foe. Crops plentiful, commerce flourish-
ing, civil and religious freedom enjoyed, and prosperity within our walls.
If ever a people had cause for thankfulness, Canadians have."
EDUCATION IN CANADA.
In a former part of this work, I said, the denominational principle
was not recognised, but I find from the Statute laws, that in Townships
ratepayers may tax themselves for the maintenance of any separate
schools they like ; and I find also that there were 162 Roman Catholic
Schools of this class, in the year 1868. But the common school system
is Governmental, and is in a most flourishing condition. In the above
year there were 4,480 schools in the Ontario department, of which Dr.
Ryerson is the head, but not a political oflBcer. Those schools have
419,899 scholars, and of the above schools 3,986 are free. That is, the
Township Boards pay all. The remaining 494 schools pay 25 cents
per quarter, or about one shilling British. 3,035 of the schools open and
■ close with prayer, and the Bible and Testament are read nlso ; and yet
these readings are purely voluntary for trustees and teachers to sanction,
and no child can be compelled to be present, if its parents or guardians
• APPENDIX. , 185
object. Boards are appointed to levy and raise the funds. Some of the
distinguishing points of this school system are : 1st. The system provides
for religious instruction ; 2nd. Taxation for its support is voluntary oa
the part of the Municipality ; 3rd. No foreign books in the English
branches of instruction are permitted ; 4th. All the school apparatus is
to be supplied at half price ; 5th. And one of the best of all provisions, as
as teachers are concerned is, that of providing a pension for the super-
annuated and worn out teachers in the service. Salaries vary in the
towns, villages, counties, and cities. The highest in the Dominion is
about ^£260 of our money. This salary can only be obtained in a city,
but all the schools are well sustained as to iuBpection,teachers, salaries.&o.
PASSAGE MONEY, PORTS, PRICE OF HOUSES AND LANDS,
WAGES, &c.
Another confidential authority states the following : " I think it much
to be regretted, that the advantages of Canada, as a field of labour for
emigrants, are not known. The time for sailing out, must depend
on the season of the year, for in winter the ports are closed in Quebec,
&c., by the ice ; but vessels can land at Portland, from whence quick
modes of travel are available, to either Quebec, Montreal, or Toronto.
And for those who wish to settle in the Upper Province, I would say, by
all means make way to Toronto ; and be always sure to take no instruc-
tion from strangers, as to mode of travel, until you get the proper route
on paper from the Government officers. Liverpool and Londonderry
are the best ports for Canada. A steerage passage for a working man,
from either ports in a sailing vessel would be about £4, but in a steamer
it would be about £6 6s. and to be found in every thing As to the price
of houses, all vdll depend on the size and the material. A temporary
timber hut can be raised for £12, and a temporary barn for the same,
but solid ones will cost on an average what they do in England or Ireland.
And as to what are called Crown Lands, these can be had and a title
also, by application to the proper emigration agents, either in this
country or in Canada, without any charge whatever, this means, of course,
uncleared land. The agents are —
IN EUROPE.
Mr. William Dixon, 11, Adare Street, Adelphi, London, England.
Mr. J. G. Moylan, ... ... ... Dublin, Ireland.
Mr. Charles Fay, ... ... ... Belfast, do.
Mr. David Shaw, ... ... ... Glasgow, Scotland
Mr. E. Limays, ... ... ... Antwerp.
IN CANADA.
Mr. John A. Donaldson. ... ... Toronto, Ontario.
Mr. R. H. Rae, ... ... ... Hamilton, do.
Mr. W. J. Wills, ... ... ... Ottawa, do.
Mr. J. M'Pherson, ... ... ... Kingston, do.
Mr. L. Stafiford, ... ... ... Quebec, Quebec.
Mr. J. J. Daly, ... ... ... Montreal, do.
Mr. E. Clay, ... ... ... Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Mr. Robert Shives ... .. ... St. John, New Brunswick
Mr. J. J. G. Layton, .,, ... ... Mimmichi
l86 APPENDIX.
Still, I wonld recommend to parties having eome capital, to pnrchase or
to hire partially cleared land, or cleared altogether, the uncleared is
called brush or bush land. Farms of cleared land can be had and pur-
chased out, from £2 to £6 of our British money per acre, or hired for
about 10s. an acre ; all according to the quantity cleared, and the character
of the locality, and the nature of the soil.
PRICE OF LABOUR AND TRADE IN CANADA.
A labouring man in summer can earn Ij dollars per day, or 5s. British.
Bricklayers, ... 7s. of British money per day
Carpenters, ... 7s. do. do.
Tinsmiths ... 63. 6d. do. do.
Painters and plumbers 7s. do. do.
Tailors and shoemakers 7s. do. do.
Female servants £1 per month
A single man as farm servant, firom £2 to £2 10s. per month.
Farm servant with his wife, £S 10s. per month
Groceries are nearly on a par with the old country
Flour per barrel of 2001bs. costs 22s.
Meat per lOOlbs. weight, will be about £1 4s., or only about 3d. per lb.
Cottages can be rented in towns for about £12, and dwelling houses of
larger dimensions in proportion. In fact, clothing, food, and habitation,
are as cheap as in the old country, and fuel cheaper.
CHANGE OP WEATHER AND SEASONS.
The alternations of weather both in Canada and in the States are very
sudden and uncertain — Now it may be sunshine, and in an hour it may
be a raging storm, very often like the ups and downs of life ; or as one
expresses it, " What would the best picture be, which bright eyed, and
ready-handed genius ever flung on canvass, without its shadows." The
poet would express it thus —
" But when the raging storm subsides,
And all is calm, for which we sighed,
Andpleasing.joys succeed.
We then enjoy the pleasure more,
from what our minds had felt before,
And then we're bless'd indeed."
Another emigrant writes as follows : '* No where on earth do the seasons
move in lovelier procession. In spring we have quick awakening life,
when nature puts on her best attire, as promptly as a bride on her wed-
ding mom. The summer is short but gorgeous with splendour, and be-
decked with flowers unsurpassed; oppressive heat at times and occa-
sional drought, but summer showers soon refresh the face of everything,
and all is green and beautiful again. In autumn the waving fields of
tasselled com, invite the sickle, and repay sweet expectation ; the
orchards display apples of gold, in baskets of silvery verdure, and bend-
ing grapes in clustres are reckoned among the fruits. The forests pre-
sent a richly tinted and many coloured foliage. The Indian summer is a
splendid valedictory to the season of growth and harvest, and a bright
and beautiful hectic flush sits upon the face of universal nature as we
glide imperceptibly into winter, and this, though severe, is exhilarating.
But soon the winter is forgotten in the sudden return of spring, which
APPENDIX. 187
once more appears to cheer, and the mral scene becomes a library. The
sky, the clouds, the hills, the valleys, the trees, the bnds, the insects,
the flowers, the leaves, the running brooks, the blades of grass, and even
the very stonei, become books of prose and poetry, volumes of " ele-
gant extracts," and of practical information, bj -which we may improve
in natural history, botany, science and philosophy, and where we may
read essays on simplicity, lectures on economy, and profitable sermons
on " th« goodness of God," of which the poet so beautifully writes in the
following lines —
" It warms in the sun, refreshes in the breeze,
v Glows in the stars and blossoms in the trees;
LiTP" through all life, extends thro' all extent,
Spri ds undivided, operates unspent ;
Breivthes in our soul, informs our mortal part, ......
As full as perfect in a hair, as heart.
As full, as perfect in vile man that mourns,
As in the rapt seraph, that adores and burns
To Him, no high, no low, no great, no small,
He fills, he bounds, connects, and equals all."
MINERALS AND PRODUCTIONS OF CANADA.
The mineral wealth of the country is not surpassed by "ny other in
variety and richness. There is abundance of iron between the Georgian
Bay and Ottawa ; and also in the same region copper, lead, magnesia,
marble, plaster of paris, and building stone, &c., and all near the sur-
face ; and also symptoms of gold and silver mines. The copper and
mica on the north shore of Lake Huron have paid well. Petroleum in
inexhaustible quantities is had in the westerly parts of Ontario. In one
year four millions of gallons were obtained. 120 wells are now at work.
Salt is obtained at Goderich in the shape of brime and then reduced ; beds
of peat are also found, &c., &c. In addition to the mineral resources of
the country we have almost every production of cereals, such as Indian
com, wheat, peas, beans, yams and all kinds of the potatoe species, tur-
nips, mangel, beet root, and all garden vegetables, and some which we
have not in the old country, besides the great variety and abundance of
fruit. It also abounds with all manner of trees, both useful and orna-
mental, especially the maple tree, from the juice of which molasses and
sugar are secured. And as to the floral productions of Canada, they are
almost endless and exquisite, especially " the lily," either in its native or
cultivated form ; we will mention one called " the wild orange lily," to
which perhaps our Lord alludes, as it grows in great luxuriance in Pales-
tine ; the word lily is Celtic, and signifies whiteness, perhaps from its
ivory colour and the marble polish of its petals. It is always associated
with ideas of grace and beauty, and was more gorgeous in our
Lord's estimation, than the royal garment« of Solomon ; they may have
just caught the eye of our Lord at the moment, and firom their beauty,
illustrated the subject on which he was then gpcaking. Dr. James Ha-
milton considers them an emblem of " holiness," and as they are found
in every clime, so may holiness flourish in the snow-clad region of the
north pole, and on the burning plains of Ir lia ; within the cold influence
of the frigid zone, as well as beneath the blazing suns of the equator.
In Africa as in Asia ; in Europe as in America, he also thinks there is
a healing quality in the leaves when applied to sores, an emblem of Him
l88 APPENDIX.
vtho is " the rose of Sharoti and the lily of the valley ; " and of Him who
is "the Tree of Life, the leaves of which are for the healing of the
nations ; " and also that its roots have heen used, especially in Muscovy,
as an article of food, another emhlem of Him who is a " root out of a dry
ground," and who gave his life as bread for a famished world ; so that
there may have been more ideas in our Lord's mind than the mere ad-
monition to confidence or " trust " in the providence of God. Consider
the lilies of the field, how they grow, and we might add, for what useful
purpose do they grow ? —
" That after they hftve shown their pride
Like U8 awhile, they glide
Into their grave.''
But the flowers and trees of the heavenly paradise neither wither nor die—
" They flourish in perpetual blooru,
Fruit every month they give;
And to the healing leaves who nome,
Eternal life shall have."
I might also mention " the apple tree," which is such a great blessing to
Canada, especially in the summer season, and of which there are twenty-
four kinds. Solomon refers to it in Canticles ii. 3. — " As the apple tree
among the trees of the wood, so is my beloved among the sons." Many
consider the word " apple," could be rendered citron, as this tree belongs
to the orange tribe, and is so remarkable for its beauty, its fragrance,
its flower, and its fruit ; and some say that it was the fruit which tempted
our first parents. It is also remarkable for its shady and wide-spreading
branches, to which the expression refers, " I sat under his shadow vnth great
delight." A practical application may here be mentioned, " A pious old
man is sold to have been visited sometime ago in his cheerless habitation,
he was without almost the very necessaries of life ; he ■?vas sitting at the
spot where once the fire was wont to burn ; and when the pious visitor
entered, he found him with the Bible open on his knee ; he accosted him
saying, ' How is it with you to-day, brother,' he meekly replied, ' Sitting
under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit is sweet unto my
taste.' " This was majesty, it was heroic triumph.
" O what were earth, with all its wild domains,
Its waving forests, and its fertile plains ;
Its lordly mountains, and its boundless seas, \
] ts homes of splendour, luxury and ease, \
lis scenes of beauty, formed to bless and please )
With golden worlds o'er-canopied above ?
Joyless were all, without the light of love.
The loving tendrils of the heart forgiven.
Take hold of God, and lift us nearer heaven "
APPENDIX. 189
EM IGRATION TO THE STATES. - ,
"Our country! 'tis « glorioiw liind,
With bi'uad nrms stretched from shore to ahore,
The proud I'acitio cliHfes her strand;
She hears the dark Atlantic roar.
Rich prairies, decked with flowers of gold !
Like sun-lit oceans, roll afar ;
Broad lakes her azure heavens behold,
Reflecting clear each trembling star.
Great God ! we thank thee for this home—
This bounteous birth-land of the free, ,
Where wanderers from afar may come
. /. And breathe the air of liberty."— jr. /. J'( afti^u'y, /i»5,
VOYAGE, FARE, AND LANDING AT NEW YORK.
The best ports for the States are Liverpool and Quenetown — the
former suit English people, the latter the Irish. The fares for the
steerage are all well known ; just the same as to Canada. In sailing
vessels £4, and in a steamer £6 Cs. — including everything. The steerage
passengers by the emigrant vessels who arrive in New York, are con-
veyed at once in " a tender " to Castlegarden, as I mentioned before at
the end of the first Chapter of this volume. They may suppoit them-
selves there if they are able, or labour for their support ujatil they get
proper and remunerative employment ; persons from the city generally
call and inquire for "helpers," or parties may write to their frienis from
the country to do so. British money will be exchanged here for currency,
and railway tickets can be had to all parts of the Union, and to Canada
at reduced fares ; and the emigrant can send a telegram to any part
of the world ; here also there is full protection from fraud being prnctised
on the " greenhorns," as the emigrants are generally called. Lit the
emigrant have his agreement for employment recorded by the Commis-
sioners, and he is safe from any imposition ! There is a " Refuge "
also for the destitute, where there are hospitals and all other institutions
for the sick, and the disabled, and where the unemployed may remain
and work for their support until " something turns up," — their spiritual
wants will also be attended to. The German and Dutch are generally
the poorer class of emigrants. The Irish are better off, and would
sooner support themselves, while they have means, than g to any of
these places of employment.
RATE OF WAGES IN THE STATES.
We may remark that since the war, the American (States) dollar is
only worth about 3s. of British money, and we will use this standard in
marking the rate of payment for various employments, and also on the
average, for things are subject to fluctuation there as well as in Europe
according to qnaUfication. The following scale may be regarded as the
general standard —
British— £
Labourers, per day, from li to 2 dollars— Average
Tradesmen, per day, from 3 to 5 dollars — Average
A good servant girl from 16 to 30 dollars per month — Average 8
s.
d.
5
8
12
9
IgO APPENDIX.
The chaiiicter 3f the trade will make a pje&t difference, and also the
trade most in demand. In milla and manufacturing departments, the
wages are far above the English or Irish figure, such as cotton mills,
hardware works, gas works, ship building, woollen mills, leather manu-
factories, sugar refiners, silk hat and paper mills, &;c. The same may
be said of Canada. I would snppose on an average wages may be
regarded in general, as 40 per cent, over British wages, in the States,
or for every £5 in Europe, one would realize £7 in America, but on
the other hand it must be remembered that articles of " living " in
most places in the States are proportionately high 1 Clothing especially
is very dear, so that looknig at receipts and expenditure, the compari-
son in the end is not very great. The great difference is that in-
dustrious and well-disposed people are seldom out of employment. New
York may be regarded as the criterion for all parts of the Union.
RESOURCES OF THE STATES.
An intelligent writer and one well acquainted with the country writes
(this year 1870), "sThere is here an almost unlimited country awaiting
the emigrant — a country of untold resources, whether regarded in an
agricultural or mineral point of view ; the richness of the land and the
general developments for acquiring property invite and encourage men
of energy, and there is very little to thwiirt them. The mineral resources
may be imagined from the circumstances of one whole mounttin being
iron alone. It is called the ' knot.' In the State of Illinois it is said
there is as much coal as in all England, and the land, in some places,
which has been worked for 35 years, shows no symptom of exhaustion ;
and once the emigrant gets a footing, he becomes the master of his
patch of land. It is his own, he has only to pay taxes for education
and fiscal purposes ; but these are generally very light. The general
value of partially cleared land in the States is about a ^ound an acre, and
there is every disposition among settlers to assist emigrants in the com-
mencement of their farming. It is better for farmers and labourers not to
remain in the large cities, but at once to proceed ; the tendency is nearly
all west. There is rarely a long stagnation of work, and wages are
sufficiently high to meet bad seasons when they occur ; and indeed the
field of employment is more favourable to the foreigner than to a native
workman. The love of change is so great with the American tradesmen
(as to locality and profession) that it opens up extensive employment for
the European emigrant, who generally knows no trade but his ovm, and
is indifferent to everything else. Nearly all who are employed in woollen
factories are Europeans, and the majority of the 30,000 who are employed
in the coal mines of Pennsylvania are English, Irish and Scotch.
POLITICAL RIGHTS.
The working classes generally control the Government, In no land
does the working man — using the term in its limited sense — hold his
head so high as in the territory of Uncle Sam ! The idea obtains, «• that
one man is as good as another, and a deal better too," and theoretically
at least, every workman may be said to carry a four year's lease of " The
White House" (the President's residence in Washington) in his "tool
basket," because the prizes of political conflict are at the disposal of
APPENDIX. igl
men who may have had the humblest origin, and worked at the very
lowest employments ; and power once obtained is not fickle, as in many
other places, but lasting ; and no mercantile pursuit — no profession or
calling will be a bar or a barrier to either political or social elevation.
The tailor or the bookbinder of to-day may be raised to Presidential
honours to-morrow ; and the son of the President sustains no social
prejudice by his taking " a farm," or " a dry goods store."
SPECULATION, BANKRUPTCY, AND BOOKKEEPING.
I would also warn new comers, who may haye some capital, to com-
menise at once either agricultural or mercantile business, but not.to begin to
speculate on stockjobbing, or to give out their money on promissory exorbi-
tant interest, or even to give much credit in doing business ; bankruptcy is
very frequent, and once this is the case, the conscience generally gets
hardened and benumbed as to repayment, and they often feel justified be-
cause others deceive them; but there are many honourable exceptions, who
will repay to the last penny, even when the law might exonerate them.
There was a very unpleasant controversy in some religious papers on
this subject when the writer was in America ; some contended that a
man's moral obligations were fully met when the law indemnified the
debtor, while others maintained the contrary. I believe the latter had
the better of the argument, and I would merely say, without entering
into the arguments on either side— First, that the command, •• Owe no
man anything but to love one another," is absolute ; and secondly, the
excuse of the poor 500 penny debtor shows that the obligation was recog-
nised by our Lord, " Have patience with me and I will pay thee aW."
By keeping correct books, a great deal of confusion and sorrow may be
avoided. The following poetic waif may be of service, and may be
called the secret of mercantile success. At all events it can lay claim
to common sense, if not to poetry —
" Attentive bo, and III impart,
Wliat coustiiutes the accouutaul's art,
This rule is clear, what I receive ;
I debtor make, to what I give ;
I debit atook with all my debts,
And credit it for my effects.
The goods I buy I debtor make ;
To him from whom those goods 1 take.
Unless in ready cash I pay,
Then credit what I paid away ;
To what I loose, or make, 'tis plain,
I debit loss and credit gain.
The debtor's place is my left hand,
Creditor ou my right must stand.
If to these actions you'll attend,
Bookkeeping you will comprehend,
And double entry you will And,
Elucidated to your mind."
APPENDIX B.
ON DOMESTIC LIFE AND HABITS, CHIEFLY IN THE STATES.
'For mo kind nature wakes lier genial powpr.
8ucklfls each horb, and oprends out every tlower;
Annuiil for nie, the grape, the roao renew, •
Thi! juice neotariouu, and the bahny dew.
For me the mine, a thousnnd tronsures brings,
For me health gushes from a thousand spriugs;
Seas roll to waft me, suns to light me rise.
My footstool earth, my canopy the skies."
Domestic habits, principally in the States— Daughters— Servants —Irish girh—
Breakfast — Dinner— Thanksgiving or feasting day — Socialities — Pleasure—
Worldljf conformity among professors — The Christian.
DOMESTIC HABITS.
One who was several years in the States, writes on their domesiic
habits as follows : *' The home life of a people is the best index of its
character ; and one has to reside for some time in places before he can
know or describe the real inner liome of those among whom he hves. Trau-
tory tourists are generally bad judges, for they mostly take their views
from hotel living, and imagine the fLople in America are fond of
' boarding house life,' but this is a protoand mistake. They are just as
fond of home as their cousins of the mother country. Hotels are for the
most part the asylums of bachelors and maiden ladies who have no homo
of their own, and young people who are passing through to the delights
of home." Few families, as such, live there from choice ; fast avers are
there, opera singers, negro minstrels and adventurous gentlemen, are
there ; and sometimes widows with their children, or perhaps with their
daughters whose incomes are limited are there, but as a rule, one of the
first considerations in beginning married life is "to set up at once for
housekeeping." The young ladies of the upper and middle classes are
usually trained to domestic duties, so that they are well prepared to
perform them, when they enter on domestic and married life. If a
servant is required, the young married lady knows right well how to
direct her. Native girls don't like to become servants — this honour
generally falls to the lot of the poor " wild Irish girl," who is always
called Biddy, Poor "Biddy " is very awkward for some time, but is borne
with, and instructed, with, of course, a little " watch and ward; " her
overdoiuga and underdoings are rather looked upon as a subject for
merriment rather than for blame ; but by and by, Biddy is a first-rate
girl, and preferred to all others.
MATERIALS FOR BREAKFASTING IN THE STATES.
In a general way coffee is the common beverage. Tea and cocoa
sometimes ; and as a rule hot bread is preferred — " hot rolls," or a^ they
are called biscuits ; but what we call biscuits, they call crackers. Steak
or chop or ham and eggs, or veal cutlets with fried potatoes, are among
APPENDIX. 193
indispensabloB ; ice is largely used in summer to keep everything cool,
you will see a large lump laid at each door in the morning by engage-
ment ; it is then kept in what is called a " refrigerator." In summer
the breakfast table is also supplied with melons, poaches, radishes, and
water crosses. The melons are eaten either with pepper or salt or sugar ;
and tomatoes sometimes roasted and sometimes are eaten even raw ; these
are regarded as a luxury, but which reqtiire a little apprenticeship for one
to overcome ; foreigners cannot well manage them. Buck wheat cakes,
made of flour raised over night with yeast, fried and steaming hot, are
nsed with sugar cane syrup, or molasses, and are regarded as luxuries.
On Sabbath morning in New England pork and beans and hot brown
bread are used ; the bread or bun is made small in the form of a silk
hat without a rim, and is only used in those States. The pork is cut
thin and baked with the beans. It is said that Paris has lately intro-
duced the custom ; [but I fear her foreign luxuries and importations are
very rare at present, and likely to be so while the siege lasts. Her food
now is of another type.]
; DINNER.
'* Two dishes consisting offish and flesh are considered sufficient, and
the whole dinner is set down at once, except the sweets and dessert ;
more vegetables and less meat are nsed than by us. The beef and
mutton are not so tasty as in our country, even when roasted ; some
account for this on the ground that the land wants more of the salt
element. Irish potatoes, and sweet potatoes, called yams, vegetable
marrow, called squash, turnips, green com or maize, eaten from the
stalk with pepper and butter, &c., are all used. Neither wines, spirits
or beer are introduced, and soup is very seldom made use of, but very
frequently 4 dish of boiled oysters in new milk supplies its place.
Puddings, pies or tarts, either mince, pumpkin or apple are always
adjuncts, and nuts and raisins and other kinds of fruit end the bill of
fare. Late suppers are scarcely thought of ; but at tea, cold meat,
elioed and buttered bread, and preserves of all kinds are nsed.
Every family in general make their own bread ! The principal day of
feasting in the year is " Thanksgiving Day," and that all over the
Union t It is regarded now as a day for returning thanks to God for
the blessings of the year. It is proclaimed with great parade, and is
held about the 24th or last Thursday in November. [The transcriber
of this paper alluded to the one celebrated in New York during his first
visit to that city.] The evening is spent in feasting and in entertaining
party friends — just like Christmas Day with ns. The houses are kept
very comfortable in America, both in summer and winter. The light is
greatly dreaded, perhaps on account of injuring the carpets and the
furniture, and perhaps the sight also ; and it may be that the light
invites the muskatoes in summer. In winter, large stoves are used ;
sometimes in the cellar or in the hall, and their pipes convey the heat
through the rooms ; gas is also used plentifully ; baths are also in
frequent use. The supply of water in the cities is abundant, and is
equally good for drinking. Washing is always dcue at home ; and the
flat roofed houses are fine drying places. The streets in general are
13
m
APPENDIX.
kept clean ; there are some exceptions. Water carts are employed aa
in London and Dublin. Framo or wooden honses are still in use in
most places ; they are cool in summer, and are not inconveniently so in
winter ; they have largo windows in front, not so much in the double
stylo as in Canada ; but when tho cold is extreme, they are a great
advantage ; two regular glazed sashes close to each other, the outside one
is pat on in winter, and taken off in summer.
SOCIAL HABITS.
The social principle is very easy and unrestrained. One may call
at any time, and is always welcome ; but no refreshment is ever offered
to neighbours visiting. The lodging house system does not obtain in
the States — no such thing as taking rooms and providing for yourself —
all are expected to board in '* the boarding houees." The young people
are very fond of games and play, and knots of people will assemblo round
the doors, and warmly debate politics, &o. No criers of articles of food
are ever heard in the streets, as in London, &c. The lady goes to
market and does everything in that way — such as butchers' meat,
groceries, vegetables, &c. The butter is sold in casks, and is kept on
until the spring. Milk goes round as with us. Parlour charades are
much in vogue. Music is universally loved ; daughters are well in-
{ ructed on the piano, if tho parents are at all able to afford it ; and on
tho Sabbath among the religious folk, hymn tunes are played freely, but
among the thoughtless, pastimes, sociables, and surprise parties are very
frequent, and it is to be feared that too many professors of religion fall in
with what are regarded as innocent amusements. The surprise parties,
are rather humorous affaira A friend or a neighbour by some manoeuvre
with a member of the family, will provide a splendid repast, and have laid
out in a room belonging to the family, who are to be invited, and when
all is ready, an invitation is sent upstairs to the intended guests, and when
they come dovm they find to their apparent astonishment a splendid
feast laid out in their own apartments. The following wants supplied,
would settle everything for life and godliness : —
" I want to imitate my Saviour's life,
Avoiding lightnesB, gloom and sinful strife.
I want to bring poor sinners to his throne ;
I want to love and honour Christ alone,
I want to feel the Spirit's inward power,
And stand prepared for death's eventful hour.
I want a meek, a gentle, quiet frame,
A heart that glows with love to Jesus' name;
I want a living Bacriflce to be,
To Him who died a sacrifice for me.
I want to do whatever God requires,
I want my heart to bum with pure desires;
I want to be what Christ my Lord commands,
And leave myself, my all, in bis blest hands."
APPENDIX. 195
APPENDIX C.
SPECIAL RELIGIOUS USAGES IN THE AMERICAN
CHURCHES.
LECTURES, REVIVALS, CAMP MEETINGS.
" Thonght oxolta and lightens labour,
ThouKht forbids tho soul to Blnk I
Self resppot and love for neighbour :
Mark the men who work and think !
Think, for thought'M a wand of power —
Power to make oppression sltrink;
Grasp ye, then, the precious dower,
Poise it, wield it— work and think !
Power to eompoas this, is given — '
Power that forms the strongest link,
'Twixt an upright man and heaven.
His noblest power— the power to tliink ! "
Lectures— Rev. W. M. Punshon — ^Welcomo to Canada — Church Revivals- Rev. Mr.
Finney — " Praying Band "— Revival in Canada— Do. in Damascus in tho States-
Camp Meeting in Canada — Do. nationaliu Massochusetts— Holiness- Dr, Foster
of Madeaou College— Work on Christian purity— Extract— larewell.
I. LECTURES.
The above three-fold means for spreading knowledge, troth, and piety
are very popular both in Canada and in the States. As to lectures they
are as exteneively made use of as thoy are among ourselves, not only for
spreading knowledge upon some important subject, but also in general,
to secure some financial advantage for benevolent designs ; they are also
promotive of union among Christian brethren of various denominations ;
and they have a tendency to bring up some truth more vividly before tho
mind, which stimulates research, and results in edification. The Rev. W.
M. Punshon is regarded in Canada, as he was in England, the Prince of
Lecturers. His coming to Canada was hailed with great delight, and
was well expressed in the following lines by the Rev. Mr. Dewart, the
Canadian poet of Methodism, or the Joshua Marsden of Canada —
(An Extract)
" Welcome o'er the billowy deep,
Canada with joy doth greet thee ;
Tho' behind thee friends may weep.
Here with loving hearts we meet thee.
Albion's gifted son, to thee •
Give we love and honour due —
To this land, where all are free,
Welcome, we are Britons too.
Each Canadian gives a welcome
Free from faithless flottery's arts —
Welcome to our wide Dominion,
Welcome to our homes and hearts,"
^96 APPENDIX.
II.— CHURCH REYIVALB.
" Qo labour on I thy han.ls are weak,
Thy knees are faint, thy soul cast down; ,
Tet falter not — the prize is near,
The throne, the kingdom and the crown ! ,
Toil on, toil on ; thou soon shalt find,
For labour rest, for exile home ;
Soon shalt thou hear the bridegroom's voice,
The midnight peal, " Behold I come."
r
To promote genuine revivals of God's work in the oonverflion of Binnem
and the building up of the people of God, special efforts have been re-
garded for many years as perfectly legitimate and adopted by nearly all
religions denominations, and the ^vine sanction has been given. Finney,
the great American Revivalist, did a great deal by his work on this sub-
ject, at least, to meet objections and to promote their design ; and although
we do not go with him m every particular, yet we would only eay, let
those who can do better, tells us how. It is easier to find fault, than sug-
gest a remedy. To carry out the revival element, more systematic plans are
adopted by our American brethren than by the European churches.
Why not take a leaf out of Uncle Sam's book. The season for the adop-
tion of those means is " the Fall," alluding to the fall of the leaf, or the
beginning of our winter. This is the Methodist harvest in both countries,
and whatever may be adduced in the way of accounting for it, we will
not stop to state, but the fact cannot be denied ; the mode, may be diffe-
rent : — Very frequently ministers from other places, who are deeply im-
bued with the revival element, are invited for a fortnight or three weeks
to hold special services, and when all heartily fall in, very hallowed re-
sults generally follow, and large ingatherings into the church tjike place.
The church offipers always meet financial .onsiderations, in order to supply
the minister's place, although no stipulation is made, and he is also per-
sonally remunerated for his time. In addition to this method, I found in
many places that there are " Praying Bands " formed, consisting of twelve of
the best laymen of the church, and the most gifted ; these are chosen by
ballot and prayer, and the number is kept up. This band is often sent
for, by other churches to spend a Sabbath, and then every other service
is suspended during that da^, and the *'band" has the complete con-
trol of the services. The members are all first-rate singers, and power-
ftd in prayer. There is one in New York, and the Irish element is neither
last nor least.
A REVIVAL IN CANADA.
The Christian Guardian of Toronto, contains the following, of date
6th October, 1870 : " A very gracious work is in progress in the Wes-
leyan Methodist Church Belliville, Canada West, and Tipwards of one
hundred individuals have presented themselves as seekers of salvation,
the most of whom have experienced pardon. The work shows no sign of
abatement, and is full of promise. Sixty have already joined the Church."
THE GREAT DAMASCUS REVIVAL.— STATE OP OHIO.
Recorded April 30th, 1870.
Thir revival began without any foreign agency. It commenced ai a
APPENDIX. 197
meeting of " the Sunday School Institute," in which the teachers met
and proposed and discussed the question, " What was the great want of
the Sabbath School at present ? " Many answers were given, but unanimity
marked all ; namely, that " Officers and Teachers should be fully bap-
tized with the Holy Ghost." A delightful influence descended on the
occasion, as if prelusive of, and a preparation for, the coming shower. At
the next public meeting many were present, and the question proposed
and discussed was, •• What can be done for the more rapid development
of Christianity in our midst 7 " Many of the most respectable people of
the neighbourhood attended, both Methodists and "Friends." While
discussing the subject, a marvellous power descended, and thirty persona
gave evident signs of great mental distress, and at once bowed for special
prayer, one of the number was a member of the State Legislature. The
meetings continued on and the result so far has been, that about eight
hundred of the most respectable of the community for eight miles round
have been awakened, and nearly all profess to have found peace with God ;
among them there is a large sprinkling of the " Friends " and their
families. Surely we may well rejoice with those thus engaged in this hal-
lowed work of God, and with them exclaim—" Lord, revive thy work."
Knowest thou the importance of a soul immortal ?
Behold this midnight gloiy; -worlds on worlds! "?
Amazing pomp ; redouble"this amaze, S /
Ten thousand add, add twice ten thousand more ; . S
Then weigh the whole ; one soul outweighs them all,
And calls the astonishing magniftoence 'i,> •
Ofunintellijfent creation, poor."— Founj. :,;. . ;': *■:
IIL— CAMP MEETINGS. .f^ * '
CAMP MEETING IN CANADA.
" We are living, we are dwelling
In a grand and awful time ;
In an age, on ages telling.
To be living is sublime."
" Oh, let all the soul within you,
For the truth's Bake go abroad;
Strike, let every nerve and sinew,
Tell on ages, tell for God."
The above camp meeting held this autumn, 1870, in Parry Sound,
Canada West, and at an Indian station, it was attended and described by
the Rev. W. M.Punshon, thus: — " It was composed of whites and Indians.
The little settlement is an oasis in the desert. Armies of stumps of
trees tell of recent clearing. The camp ground is a romantic spot about
a mile from the village : a glade in the forest. The scene was picturesque
in the extreme. There were about three hundred people present, two
hundred of these were Indians. After sermons, these held a prayer meet-
ing for themselves, and with deep devotion and intense fervour of spirit,
some were in deep distress and wailed plaintively for mercy ; others
swooned away, three or four were prostrated at one time. The whites
were in another spot and when they sang the song of Zion, the red men
took up the refrain in " strange hosannahs." Their swarthy faces lit up
198
APPENDIX.
with radiance and thrown into relief by the blazing pine-knots which
crackled in the evening air, was a sight to charm a poet into rapture,
and to constrain from a Christian heart a burst of thanksgiving to God,
while
" The sounding aisles of the dim woods rang
The anthems of the free."
The Sabbath was a high day ; before the morning service six Indian
children and the child of one white settler were baptized, the former by a
native minister in their orn language, the latter by Mr. P. "I then
preached," says he, " in this cathedral of God's own architecture," 'All the
words of this life," this was translated into the Indian language by the
native minister. In the evening again, the same process was gone
through, but, says Mr. P. at the conclusion of the whole of this scene,
" I believe more firmly than ever that there needs but the one Gospel for'
the ' one blood ' of all nations of men."
THE GREAT NATIONAL CAMP MEETING OP THE UNION,
Held in June, 1870, at Asbubt Geoyb, State of Massaohusets.
This great national camp meeting for the Union has been described
at great length in " The Methodist Home Journal," published weekly in
Philadelphia, by the Eev. A. Wallace, a native of Ireland, and much be-
loved. The Editor states : — " A sale of lots took place on the ground
last Wednesday. Prominent individuals from New York, Brooklyn,
Philadelphia and other places were present to select their lots. The
cost came to 1,500 dollars. The improvements are going on rapidly.
A new turnpike from Long Branch is being constructed and a beautiful
avenue from the turnpikfe through the ground to the sea is already open, and
Steamers will ply from New York to Boston, and from thence rail-road
tickets will be arranged with the companies, and a line of stages from the
rail-road depot will be secured to the ground. The seats are to have
backs, and every thing is to be on first-rate style. All the friends
of "Holiness" should plead earnestly that God may rouse all New
England to the importance of the subject. The signs of promise
are glorious, and it is hoped there will be a series of wonderful outpourings
of the Spirit." And now that all is over, according to faith and prayer
and expectation it was done unto them. The services lasted ten days
without the slighest abatement, and the interest was kept up to the last.
The services were held at stated times in the central spot, which must
have been an imposing sight, when thousands upon thousands assembled
together. Six denominations were represented, that is, there was both unity
and uniformity, co-operation and incorporation, for the time being, and all
epeaking the same language of the spiritual Canaan. There were special
meetings here and there at intervals for experience,and other special prayer
meetings for •' holiness." At one, the wives of ministers alone met for
experience and to seek for more holiness. At another time one hundred
ministers presented themselves at the altar, and it is said, " were all bap-
tized afresh with the Holy Ghost, sent down from heaven ; " it is also
said, that thousands of others were blest. As the great theme at those
oamp meetings was hoUness of heart and purity of life, I will here introduce
APPENDIX. 199
a short extract from Dr. Foster's late work on " Christian Parity." Speak-
ing of Scriptural holiness, he says : — " Nothing on earth is so dear to us as
our hope in Christ. But are we entirely sanctified ? Let us drop the
plural, and bring the question to each soul: Are you holy? has the
work of entire sanctification by grace been wrought in your heart ? are
you now living in the enjoyment of this divine state ? You will not
triQlc with these questions, you cannot, you may not treat, with even the
levity of seeming indifference to yourself, a subject of such sacred mo-
ment. Are you a Minister ? Ponder as in the presence of God this
question, are you yourself holy, called of God, as you are, to the most holy
work of preaching holiness to men. Realize the fact, that God the great,
the adorable, is now present looking upon you, waiting your answer. We
are hurrying on to the judgment, passing like an arrow through the «iir.
A step and the grave will contain us, an instant and we shall stand be-
fore the throne of Him who has commanded us to be holy, the throne of
Him who died for our ^rnifiifipotion, of Him who is ready, willing, waiting
and able to sanctify us. Are you ready ? Fresh appeals cannot fail to
be of lasting good." The author fully subscribes to the above views and
sentiments on the doctrine of" holiness," and the enjoyment of the higher
stages of Christian purity by believers, and the more so, since he heard the
Rev. Dr. Jobson of London, (and President last year of the Irish Con-
ference) preach to the Conference in Dublin on the subject. He took for his
text Eph. iii. 17, 18, 19. The whole Conference ^^as greatly moved, and
resolved to seek this hallowed privilege ; it was a memorable time, and
the writer, also, trusts to bless God through eternity, for the results of
that remarkable discourse. Our privilege is thus expressed —
" I will sprinkle you with water,
I will cleanse you from all Bin ;
I will sanctify and cleanse you,
I will dweU and rule within.
" While we keep this hallowed witness,
All is clear and calm within ;
God the Holy Ghost will tell us,
That our hearts are cleansed from sin."
It is very gratifying to know that God appears to be thus preparing his
servants for greater usefulness both in America and in Ireland, and not
less so in England as was vdtnessed at the late Conference at Burslem,
for while Bishop Simpson preached to the Conference on " These things
move me not," &c., the power of God descended and the whole Conference
was moved to tears, and no doubt to vows of greater zeal and ministerial
fidelity than ever ; but as it is only by the special operation of the Holy
Ghost that personal holiness can be enjoyed, or retained, or exhibited,
how ought we to plead, •« For Zion's sake I will not hold my peace, and
for Jerusalem's, I will not rest until the righteousness thereof goes forth
as brightness and the salvation thereof as a lamp that bumeth." In
comparison of this we ask in conclusion, what is money, jewellery,
plate, pictures, houses, lands, rank, honour — all are perishable 1 but
the soul is immortal, a denizen of eternity I Let a Clarkson, a Wilber-
force, a Howard, a Buxton, a Nelson, a Wellington, and a Washington
have the honour of saying, I have given laws to my country. I
200 APPENDIX.
have founded an empire, I have conquered a nation, or even let
William, King of Prussia, now say, " I have shed lustre on the name,
augmented the power, and extended the empire of fatherland," and yet,
after all, and what are all in comparison of winning one soul for
Christ ; for when the granite, the marble and the brass fail to perpetuate
the achievements of the one, the other will be had in everlasting remem-
brance ; and of him who i,s thus honoured of God we may truly say, even
should he be removed in early life —
" O think that while you're weeping here,
His hand a golden harp is stringhig ;
And with a voice serene and clear,
His ransomed soul without a tear,
His Saviour's praise is singing.
And think that all his pains are fled,
His toils and sorrows closed for ever,
While He, whose blood for man was shed,
Has placed upon his servant's head,
A crown which fadeth never."
-^^w^ siwsM-
APPENDIX. 20t
' APPENDIX D.
MISCELLANEOUS. > •'
L GEORGE WASHINGTON.
" What oonBtitutes the trae nobility ?
Not wealth, uor name, nor outward pomp nor power. . •
Fools have them all, and vicious men may be
The idols and the pageants of an hour. ' • ^ *
But 'tis to have a good and honest heart,
Above all meanness, and above all crime ;
To act the right and honourable part,
';; In every circumatance of place and time.
He who is thus, from God his patent taJces,
His Maker formed him the true nobleman: ': "
Whate'er is low and vicious he forsakes,
And acts on rectitude's unchanging plan ;
Things change around him, changes touch not him
The star that guides his path, fails not, nor waxes dim."
The author regrets exceedingly his inability to visit the city of Wash-
ington, bn^.; in lien of a description of that capital of the Union he will
give a brief account of the man after whom the city is called. He
considers that any work written on America would be imperfect without
some reference to the time honoured individual who was at once the patriot,
the pride and the father of his country. The name of George Washington
is associated with our earliest school boy days as the lover of truth.
His name will go down to posterity as one of the greatest and one of the best
men of his or any other age, for whether we consider him as a general or
commander-in-chief in the army, as President of the Union or a citizen
in private life, his career was that of the most brilliant character. Lord
Brougham, who was one of the most distinguished of English statesmen,
said of Washington, " He was the greatest man of our own or any age.
It will be the duty of the historian and the sage in all ages to let no occa-
sion pass of commemorating this illustrious man, for until time shall be no
more, veneration shall be paid to the immortal name of Washington."
An American great statesman (John Adams) said of him, " His example
is complete, and it will teach wisdom and virtue to magistrates, citizens
and men, not only in the present age but in future generations. Great
generals have sometimes risen in times of violence and convulsion by the
force of the whirlwind, high enough to ride in it, and direct the storm ;
but like meteors they glare on the black clouds with a splendour that
while it dazzles and terrifies makes nothing visible but the darkness.
But such a chief magistrate as Washington appears like the pole star
in a clear sky, to direct the skilful statesman. His Presidency will form
an epoch and be distinguished as the age of Washington ! Like the
milky way, it whitens along its allotted portion of the hemisphere. The
latest generations of men will surrey through the telescope of history the
362 APPENDIX.
space \rhere so many virtues blend their rays and delight to separate
them into groups and distinct virtues." The concluding oulogium was
delivered by the celebrated orator, Fisher Ames, " The best evidence of
reputation is a man's whole life, we have now, alas I all of Washington
before us. He was the patriot without reproach, he loved his country
and when it needed sacrifices that no other man could or perhaps would
be willing to make, he did not hesitate. He once stood, like Leonidas,
at the pass of Thermopylae, to defend our independence against France.
It is as difficult to draw his character as to draw the portrait of virtue.
And Washington's example is the happiest, to show us what that portrait
is. Magnanimous in youth. Glorious through life. Great in death, his
highest ambition the happiness of mankind, and his highest victory the
conquest of himself. Bequeathing to posterity the inheritance of his
name and building his monument in the hearts of his countrymen, he
lived the ornament of the eighteenth century and died regretted by a
mourning world.'' Thus we see the sentiment does not always hold good,
that
" From low beginnings, greatnesa always flows."
Washington and Wellington, Wilberforce and Wesley are noble ex-
ceptions — but still the above has been the rule. Moses was the son of
a poor Levite, David a shepherd boy. The apostles were counted
•' ignorant and imlearned ; " Zuingle was bom in a shepherd's hut,
Melancthon was a journeyman armourer; Martin Luther sang from door
to door for a morsel of bread. Dr. Carey was a shoemaker. Dr. Morrison
was a last maker at Newcastle ; Dr. Milne was a herd boy in Aberdeen-
shire ; John Bunyan was a tinker ; John Foster was a weaver ; Andrew
Fuller was a farm servant, and so was John Hunt of immortal memory,
the apostolic missionary to the South Seas ; and of many illustrious
women also the same might be said. The following stanzas are from a
poem called " The Tomb of Washington," and inserted in an American
periodical called The Lowell Offering. It was composed by one of the
girls of the factory, as indeed the periodical itself is carried on by them-
selves alone. It is said there are 7,000 girls in the factory and 8,000
lads. Lowell lies at the confluence of the rivers Merimac and Concord in
the State of Massachusetts ; here the above sentiment also holds good,
for from this most unpromising beginning, Lowell has grown to such
a magnitude as to become the largest manufacturing city in America.
The lines referred to are only a mere extract, thus —
" Here lies in pomp his burial place
Than sculptured stone is richer far:
For in the heai-t's deep love we trace
His name, a golden star.
True deathless fame entwines that name,
Which evennore beneath all skies,
Like 7estal flame shall live the same,
For virtue never dies.
There let him rest — 'tis a sweet spot,
Simplicity becomes the great —
And Vernon's son is not forgot
Though sleeping not in State.
There let him rest, the noblest, best;
The labours of his life are done —
There let him rest — the spot is blessed—
The grave of Washington."
APPENDIX. 20^
II. "SIGNS OF THE TIMES."
" Kvery fresh alarming token
More confirms the faithful word;
Nature (for its Lord hath spoken)
Must be suddenly restored ;
J, From this national confusion,
From this ruined earth bnd skies,
See the times of restitution,
See the new creation rise ! "—Wesley,
Our Lord charged the Jews with not knowing the signs of the times
in which he lived, and very likely if he lived in our day he would bring
the same charge against us. In comparing the 24th Chapter of Saint
Mathew with the 2l8t of St. Luke, it is amazing the numerous signs
recorded of eventful periods. Some of them, no doubt, referred to the
destruction of the Jewish nation and polity, which occurred about forty years
after those fearful predictions and denunciations ; but whatever may be
the period of delay, the present signs^, both in the heavens and in the
earth, as well as in the moral world, are most marvellous, and in some
instances very cheering. We read in the above chapters of " wars
and commotions," " nation against nation," " kingdom against kingdom,"
" great earthquakes," "famines," "pestilences," "fearful eights and
great signs," " great distress in the land," " wrath upon the people,"
" signs in the sun i:-.d in the moon and in the stars." [A total ecUpse
of the sun is expected in December (this month), 21st or 22nd, 1870, and
it is said in Harpef^ Magazine, New York, that in all parts of the'
world preparations are being made by astronomers for observing it.
The Congress of the United States have already appropriated 29,000
dollars, about £4,300 of our money, to the coast survey, for the purpose.
It will be centrally and totally eclipsed a little to the North East
of Gibraltar. There will be also changes in the shadow of the
moon in several places.] These things occurring just now, together
with the late earthquakes in America, and the other strange phenomena
in the heavens and " upon the earth," may mean that great kingdoms
shall be shaken with pei-plexity ; the sea and the waves roaring, men's
hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are
coming upon the earth," &c. But one of the most remarkable and
striking signs of the times in the days of our Lord, and immediately after,
was this, " For many shall come in my name and say, Lo here is Christ or
lo there ; for there shaU be false Christs and false prophets, and shall show
great signs and wonders, and shall deceive many ; insomuch, that if it
were possible, they shall deceive the very elect ; and because iniquity shall
abound, the love of many shall wax cold." Now who that pays tie
slightest attention to the passing events of the present and past few years
but must discover nearly every one of the above mournful roll. But yet
I would say in the language of our Lord, " The end is not by and by,"
or " Is not yet." How short or how long that " by and by " or " yet "
may be, who can tell, perhaps not even the angels. But what is the
duty of Christians at present is the grand question ? I would just use the
language of our Lord, " "When these things begin (and they have begun)
to come to pass, then look up and lift up your heads, for your redemption
draweth nigh." Our Lord told his disciples that the above events were
i04 APPENDIX.
the Bigns of '• his coming then in judgment, and also of the end of the
world." How then are we to look up ? I would say, by watchfulness and
prayerfulness, by faith and expectation ; and what for ? for richer displays
of our redemption from all sin. The command is " Therefore be ye also
ready ; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of Man cometh." And
how are we to manifest this readiness for flight, and this preparedness for
usefulness? Just by complying with our Lord's admonition again, *• Go
and work in my vineyard to-day " or the same, " work while it is called to-
day.'' But oh, how much is implied in the term work / not waiting but
working, willing to do or willing to suffer the Master's will. Like the
emblem or device] used by a Missionary Society in America, a plough
on one side and an altar on the other, with an ox in the middle, and with
the following motto underneath—
" Ready for either."
Either to suffer or to serve. When this is the case, all will be right for
time and eternity. The Gospel must be preached to all nations before
the end comes ; and it is, thank God, being preached. It is hard on its
way, like the sun in the heavens, to accomplish its aimual milleimial
course, and •' it is appearing to all men." It is speeding its way to
the very ends of the earth vnth untold rapidity. Fifty years ago, the
Bible Society sent forth only two thousand copies per week, now it sends
forth thirteen thousand per day ; four hundred years ago it took a year
to transcribe a copy of the Scriptures and a fortune to purchase it ; now
a whole Bible is printed in a minute by cylinder steam presses, and is
sold for a few pence ! In the last fifty years thirty-five million of copies
were sent forth by that noble Society in 170 different languages. Daniel's
prediction spoken 2,400 years ago is being fulfilled, " Many shall run to
and fro, and knowledge shall be increased." Never were the messengers
more numerous than they are just now, and rapidly increasing also ;
besides, nearly the whole world is becoming more accessible than ever —
even the colonial empire of Great Britain is now the wonder of the world ;
a little island, once the habitation of barbarians, is raised to a height
of unparalleled pre-eminence. An empire on which the sun never sets,
she belts the Coasts of Africa, and stretches along the breadth of
North America ; she has her islands in Central and even in South America,
— she has an empire on the Continent of Asia and another at the
A.ntipodes. These are strange signs of the times, and oh, what a respon-
sibility. And might we not say nearly the same of the United States, a
world in itself; and if not in her political greatness as extensive as
Great Britain, yet in her missionary career she runs close by, and in
many instances outstrips the old country. Another sign of the times,
but a pleasing one, is the unprecedented intercourse of nations by land
and submarine telegraphic despatch, by railroad velocity and by steam
ship power 1 These have revolutionized the globe, almost supassing fable I
A message of 2,000 miles can now be had in less than half an hour, and
vessels are launched now, which have no comparison but Noah's
ark ; and lines are being laid along the Bed Sea or the Valley of the
Euphrates, and close to the site of the ancient Babylon, from whence
the ancient Seer wrote, who had the days in which we live clearly photo-
APPENDIX. 205
gaphed or daguerreotyped on his mind—" Many ahaU run," &c. In
ct the whole circumference of the globe shall soon he grasped, and then
in five or ten minutes a message from the farthest East to California will
be transmissible. Are we not reminded of our Lord's words, " This
Gospel shall be preached as a witness among all nations, and then shall
the end come." Signs of revival power are reaching us from all quarters.
Africa has been stretching out her sable hands unto the Lord, lately more
than ever. A writer in a religious periodical has just stated that about
8,000, between KaflBrs, Fingoes and Hottentots have been recently con-
verted, principally through the instrumentality of the Rev. W. Taylor,
an American evangelist, and about 1,000 in India. Thus we have the
prayer often offered up being answered —
" Let the Indian and the negro
And the rude barbarian see
That divine and glorious conquest
Onoe obtained on Calvary."
The last news from Nova Scotia is, that her churches are crowded, and
that the responses are like the sound of many waters. Other parts of
America are daily resounding with the sound of abundance of rain.
Rome is open, the outposts of Italy are beginning to flourish, Epain is
free, Egypt is promised a Saviour and a great one, the Crescent is bow-
ing to the cross, and China's Confucianism has just had one of its last
throes, like the Hindoo massacre and mutiny. Ireland is on the move,
although slowly. Tidings reach from several parts of the North to justify
the cheering evidence —
" Lo the promise of a shower, *
Drops already from above."
And w« trust and pray for the consummation. —
" And the Lord will shortly pour
AU the fulness of his love."
It is also cheering to know that some parts of England, at least those
which have been panting as a thirsty land for showers, have been lately
graciously visited by an abundance of rain. How cheering is the following
from Kent, just recorded in the November number of " The Methodist
Family," — " No eye capable of appreciating the beautiful, can fail to be
charmed by the aspect of nature after a summer shower. Somewhat
analogous, but immeasureably superior, are the effects produced by
" showers of blessing " upon the church of God. Such events have
lately been manifested in the town and circuit of Faversham, (Kent.)
The chapels were crowded, the shout of a King was heard in the camp,
and heaven and earth rejoiced over sinners repenting of their sins. For
eighteen months not a week passed without conversions. Some of these
were once notorious for wickedness. A marked feature of the revival is the
conversion of whole families, husbands and wives, parents and children,
have been seen seeking and finding forgiveness, in company (with each
206 APPENDIX.
-other)." The statement oonclados in tho language of David's grateftil
.heart, '• Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who only doetb
vondrouB things for ever ; and blessed bo his glorious name ; and let the
whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen."
These are some of the signs of the times ; the following is still
more cheering. A rerival has been going on in Swansea in the Episco-
Salian Church, and described by the Rev. Thomley Smith, Wesleyan
[inister, in the '« Methodist Recorder," November 11th, 1870. The
following is an extract : — " I am constrained to give an account of the
work of God in this town. The Rev. Mr. Aitkin (Episcopalian) and the
clergy preached for ten successive nights, and held prayer-meetings after.
I heard them on several occasions, and clearer, fuller or more faithful ex-
hibition of the Gospel, I have seldom heard any where. I was asked to
take part in some of the services, and I gladly did. Many were seen in
different parts of the house in deep penitence for sin, and even some
entered into the liberty of the children of God, and exchanged the sor-
rows of repentance for the joys of pardon. Four or five hundred attended
each night of all ranks, to confess their sins, and to plead with God for
themselves and others. To witness such meetings, says Mr. Smith, in
connection with the Established Church, was to me most cheering, and
no real Christian could do otherwise than rejoice in the gracious results
which followed." Mr. Smith then gives us an account of a remarkable
revival in the Methodist Church, which resulted in the conversion of very
many, andconclndes saying, " for such a fiame in all our churches ; they
would then rise and shine with increasing lustre." It will be remembered
that the Rev. Mr. Aitken was formerly united to a seceding branch of
the Methodists, but returned to the church which he left, because it was
said his revival tendencies were interfered with. We are rejoiced to
find him indoctrinating the clergy on this hallowed revival theme again. In
the same Recorder is a most thrilling account of the American Board of
Missions in the Sandwiche Islands. The Rev. Mr. Conn, with his
wife just returned after thirty-five years labour, spoke most affectingly
and effectively ; at a late meeting he said, " I baptized 1,700 natives in one
day, and the tears shed on that occasion were as plentiful as the waters used
in the baptism ; I admitted into the church nearly 12,000 members, and
they remain. Civilization, in its highest sense, has followed in the wake
of Missionary Christianity. The Islands are christianized, and are self-
supporting, and can do with a native ministry." The chairman said,
•• There were no such results following the preaching of the Gospel since
the days of the Apostles — a nation was born." It is said, the scene at
this meeting was overwhelming ; old and young were alike melted into
tears. It appeared as if Apostolic times had come again. Mr. Conn
took his leave again amid tears and prayers, with others, to go far hence
unto the Gentiles. These are signs of coming glory. From east and
west and north and south. " Now is our salvation nearer than when we
believed." The spirit of grace will be soon poured out now on the house
of David (the Jews), because the fulness of the Gentiles is being brought
in. " The glory of the Lord shall rise upon Zion and the Gentiles shall
come to his light and Kings to the brightness of his rising ; " and again,
"the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the
APPENDIX.
207
vatora cover the sea." '* Seeing we look for BOoh thingf , what manner
of persons ought we to be," &c.
" Clothed with tho spirit of holinesib
May all thy people prove ; *
The plenitude of Gospel grace, >
The joy of perfect love.
JesuB, let all thy lovnrs shine
Illustrious 08 tho sun,
And bright vf Ith borrowed rays divine,
Their glorious circuit run.''
III. AN AMERICAN LITERARY CURIOSITY ON LIFE.
Whatever the writer may have done " In trying each art, and in reproving
each dull delay " to cater for poetic extracts, as strewed throughout the
present volume, he freely tenders the palm to the talented American lady
who spent twelve months in calling the following lines from thirty-eight
authors whose names are appended, and bringing them into verse : —
Why all this toil for triumphs of an hour ? "
Life's a short summer — man a flower."
By turns we catch the vital breath and die."
The cradle and the tomb, alas 1 too nigh."
To be is better far than not to be."
Though all man's life may seem a tragedy."
But light cares speak when mighty griefs are dumb."
The bottom is but shallow whence they come."
Your fate is but the common fate of all."
Unmingled joys here to no man befall."
Nature to each allots his proper sphere."
Fortune makes folly her peculiar care."
Custom does often reason overrule."
And throw a cruel sunshine on a fool."
Live well how long or short — permit to Heaven."
They who forgive most shall be most forgiven."
Sin may be clasped so close we cannot see its face."
Vile intercourse where virtue has not place."
Then keen each passion down, however dear."
Thou pendulum, betwixt a smile and tear."
Her sensual snares let faithless pleasure lay."
With craft and skill — to ruin and betray."
Soar not too high to fall, but stoop to rise."
We masters grow of aU that we despise."
then remove that impious self-esteem."
Riches have wings and grandeur is a dream."
Think not ambition wise because 'tis brave."
The paths of glory lead but to the grave."
What is ambition ? 'tis a glorious cheat."
Only destructive to the brave and great."
What's all the gaudy glitter of a crown."
The way to bliss lies not on beds of down."
YODKO.
Db. JoHNSTOSr
Pope.
Fbiob.
Sewelii.
Spencee.
Daniel.
Sib W.RALEiaH.
losgfellow.
Southwell.
congreve.
Chubchill.
rochesieb.
ABMBIBOMa.
Milton.
Bailey.
Fbenoh.
somebville.
Thompson.
Btbon.
Smollbt.
Cbabbe.
Mesbbnobb.
COWLBT.
Bbatiie.
Cowpeb.
Davenant.
Gbat.
Willis,
Addison.
Dbtdbn.
J. QUABLBS.
208 APPENDIX.
" How long we live not years but actiona tell." Watkinb.
" That man lives twice who lives the first life weU." Merrick.
" Make then while yet yo may your God your friend." W. Mabom.
*' Whom Christians worship, yet not comprehend." Hill.
'• The trust that's given guard, and to yourself be just." Dana.
" For, live we how we can, yet die we must." Shakespbarh.
In fine, dear reader, let me say that the prayer of the author
of this humble volume is, that the perusal of it may prove a blessing to
yon as it has to him while writing it : and ho trusts that the same
kind and gracious Providence which conducted him to and flrom that
vast Continent, and over the perils of that " great and wide sea," may
guide us both along the perilous voyage of life, and at last, under the
guidance of the Star of Bethlehem, may we enter that celestial port of
immortal delight where •• all the ship's company meet who sailed with
their Saviour beneath," and where each in rapturous joy shall for
ever and for ever sing —
" Now iftfely moored, my perils o'er,
I'll sing first in night's diadem
For ever and for eyermore,
The Star, the Star of Bethlehem.
It was my guide, my light, my all,
It bade my dark forebodings cease.
And through the siorm and danger's thrall.
It led me to the Port of P«ace."
II FINI!
"V.