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THE LIFE
OP
JOHN MOCKETT CRAMP. D.D.
1796-1881.
Late President of Acadia College ;
Author of " The Council of Trent," " Baptist History," Etc.
EEY. T. A. HIGGII^S, D.D.
MONTREAL :
W. DRYSDAIvE & CO.
1887.
[Entered according to Act of Parliament of Canada, in the year 1887, by
W. Deysdale & Co., in the Office of the Minister of Agriculture.]
C7//S
INTRODUCTOllY REMARKS.
A word of explanation is deemed advisable. It
was the hope of some members of the family that
Thomas Cramp, Esq., late of Montreal, would pre-
pare a brief sketch of his father's life for publica-
tion. So far as tender regard and needful informa-
tion were concerned, no one else could hope to do
it so well as he. He was old enough when the
family left England in 1844, to be able, in after
years, to call to mind many incidents of early life.
Frequent visits were made by him, during the last
few years of his life, to the home of his childhood.
Correspondence was also kept up with the friends
of the family in England.
Had he been permitted to undertake this work,
doubtless many reminiscences, which give so much
of life and interest to biography, would have been
interwoven, ^ind added great value to the record.
It required some time after his much lamented
decease in 1885, before the work could be thought
of or undertaken by another. This may explain why
over six years have been allowed to pass without
745
IV.
some permaneut record of such a useful and in-
structive life, as that which is but too imperfectly-
exhibited in this small volume.
The work, such as it is, has necessarily been
done at short intervals, as other pressing duties
could be, for the moment, laid aside. If more time
could have been devoted to it, the memoir might
have been much more worthy of him whose record
is given.
Nearly all the documents and papers left by Dr.
Cramp, from which information could be derived,
were in his own peculiar system of short-hand
writing. This enhanced the difficulty of the work-
While it was easily read by himself, it was some-
times difficult for others to decipher. And the
writer wishes hereby to acknowledge his great in-
debtedness to Miss Cramp for her valuable assist-
ance in this matter. Without her aid, the task,
which has been an exceedingly pleasant one, would
have been, to say the least, much more difficult,
if, indeed, it could have been done at all.
Two chapters — the one referring to efforts in
behalf of the Missionary cause, and the one headed
" The last things," were furnished entire by Miss
Cramp, who was the constant companion of her
father, during the latter years of his life.
Valuable assistance has also been rendered by
the other members of the family. If any pleasure
or profit is derived from the perusal of the book, it
will be largely due to the aid thus received from
those who justly revere the memory of so great
and good a father.
The labors, as well as the attainments of the sub-
ject of the following sketch, were so varied, and
touched the world's interests at so many points,
that it has been found difficult to avoid some repe-
tition. Thoughts, and even expressions and dates
already found in one connection, may appear again
in another.
The hope, however, is cherished that whatever
defects may be discovered in the style of the work,
the unselfish life described therein, may be found
stimulating and useful to some who peruse it, and
especially to the young student who is looking out
upon life, and anxiously enquiring in what direc-
tion success may be found.
The compiler of the following pages will have
failed in one prominent aim of his endeavour, if
the reader fails to see, that whatever natural en-
dowments one may possess, work, — honest, persistent
and persevering work, is the royal road to both use-
fulness and success.
T. A. HIGGINS.
WOLrVILLE, IST. S.,
February, 1887.
COTvTTEJSTTS.
Chapter Page
I. — Parentage and Birthplace, 2
II.— Early Life and Education, 1796-1818, . . 13
III.— Ordination and First Pastorate, 1818-1825, . . 19
IV.— Miscellaneous Labours, 1825-1827, ... 37
v.— Co-Pastorate with his Father, 1827-1842, . . 49
VI.— Pastorate at Hastings, 1812-1844, ... 74
VIT.— Removal to Canada, 1844, 83
VIIL— Life in Montreal, 1844-1851 98
IX. — Acadia College, Ill
X.— Dr. Cramp appointed President of Acadia College,
1851, 135
XL— Establishment of a Theological Department, 1853, 159
XIL— Literary Labors in England, 1818-1844, . . 224
XIIL— The Library, 253
XIV.— Eflforts on Behalf of Temperance Reform, . . 267
XV.— Services rendered in aid of the Missionary Cause, 291
XVI.— Dr. Cramp as a Preacher, 319
XVIL— Years of Quiet and Rest, 341
XVIII.—" The Last Things," 366
Appendix 381
CHAPTER I.
PARENTAGE AND BIRTHPLACE.
" The voice of parents is the voice of God, to steer the wanton
freight of youth through storms and dangers." — Shaksfpeare.
Literature has been greatly enriched by the
record of devoted and useful lives. These records
have often been made the stimulus to noble en-
deavour. By them, men " being dead yet speak,"
and thus continue to call to action those who
might otherwise flag in the course. The material
is not yet exhausted, and will not be, as long as
Divine grace operates upon human hearts.
Many friends of the late Dr. Cramp have ex-
pressed the opinion, that his life and labors were
too important and useful to be allowed to slip
away from the memory of the young men of this
generation.
In harmony with this feeling, an attempt is
hereby made to rescue a few of the leading events
of that life from oblivion, and to place them where
they may act as " lights along the shore."
" To be useful " was the oft-repeated prayer of
the subject of this memoir. And quite sure are
we, that had his opinion been asked as to any ac-
count of his life that might appear, he would have
had no higher ambition than that anything said or
written of him, might be made useful to those left
in the warfare.
He lived and worked for others while he lived,
and, that his works may continue " to follow him "
is the end sought in sending forth this small
volume to the world.
He began early in life to use the Press as a means
of usefulness. And it is thought, that by the em-
ployment of numerous extracts from his own pen,
his history will be given with more accuracy than
in any other way.
The following reference to his family history is
taken from his account of the life and labors of
Rev. Thomas Cramp, his father: —
" My father was a native of St. Peter's, Isle of Thanet,
in which place he spent his whole life, and labored there
in the Grospel during the long space of sixty-four years.
He was born, March 25th, 1*7*70. He died, Nov. 17th,
1851.
" At the time of his birth his parents were members
of the Church of England. Martin Cramp, his father,
was a strong-minded, well-informed man, accustomed to
independent thinking, and therefore, not likely to sub-
mit to traditionary trammels."
The following passage from a sermon preached
on the occasion of his death in 1822, refers to his
religious character :
" With respect to religion, he thought for himself — he
thought much — and he thought well.
" Great names never swayed him ; whenever he deemed
that he discovered error, he freely animadverted upon it;
and, if in maintaining his own sentiments, he sometimey
a8>*umed a tone nearly approaching to dogmatism, it was
not because they were his sentiments, bat because they
appeared to him to be the sentiments of the Bible — the
truth — the truth of God. He was well versed in Scrip-
ture, and would often astonish us by the length and
correctness of his quotations."
Martin Cramp, becomiug dissatisfied with the
instructions of the Yicar of the parish of St. Peter's,
united with the Congregational Church at Rams-
gate, under the pastoral care of Rev. Greorge Town-
send (who died in 1837.)
Subsequently, a change of views on Baptism
separated him from that community, and he be-
came a member of the Baptist Church, of which
his son was the pastor.
The anxious search for truth, which character-
ized the father, Martin Cramp, early manifested it-
self in the son. "We quote again from the account
referred to above.
" My father was the subject of serious impressions in
his early jouth. He felt deep reverence for sacred
things, and was very desirous of gaining religious in-
struction. There was a yearning after sj^iritual life,
which was not produced by the teachings of the parish
minister, whose dry, moral essays, though listened to
with utmost attention, were entirely incomprehensible,
because they were destitute of heart."
In 1*785, when Thomas Cramp was fifteen years
of age, he heard a sermon from the Rev. Jonathan
Purchis, pastor of a small Baptist Church at Shal-
lows, half a mile from St. Peter's. That day proved
to be the turning point in his life. He continued
to go to Shallows, seeking for light. And sermons
from the texts, " The end of all things is at hand,"
" Striving against sin," and "Come unto me," were
made the means of great blessing. He saw the
way of life through the atoning sacrifice of Christ,
and yielded his heart to the Saviour.
He was baptized and became a member of the
church, in March, 178*7. In the autumn of the same
year, he began to preach the Gospel. His occa-
sional efforts were highly appreciated, and a room
was secured at St. Peter's, where he preached every
Lord's Day, morning and evening, for some time,
worshipping meanwhile in the afternoons with the
church at Shallows, under the pastoral care of Mr.
Purchis. The room soon became too small for the
congregation, and, in 1*797, a chapel which had
been built by the Methodists, and opened for wor-
ship by John Wesley, w^as secured. This building
was purchased by Mr. Cramp for 100 guineas.
Here the services were carried on till the year
1800. At this time, Mr. Purchis died. Then the
church was divided into two : one having Margate
for its centre, the other St. Peter's. The old house
at Shallows remained the common property of both
churches, each in turn using it on baptismal occa-
sions, till better provision was made. Mr. Thomas
Cramp was chosen as the pastor of the church at
St. Peter's. His ordination took place July, 1800.
For twenty-seven years he labored over this
church alone, preaching three times on Sundays,
once or twice during the week, besides attending
prayer meetings and business meetings frequently.
For about fifteen years, from 182*7, Rev. J. M.
Cramp was associated with bis father in the
pastorate of the church. In 1837, Rev. Thomas
Cramp completed the 50th year of his ministry,
and Jubilee services were held.
The son describes the event as follows : —
" It was truly a gladsome day. A large attendance of
friends from different parts of the country were present.
In the morning, after a meeting for special prayer and
praise, my father praeched from Acts xx. 32-35. The ser-
mon was one of his happiest efforts. The exposition of
the text was clear and full ; historical reminiscences were
interwoven in the discourse with much tact and pathos ;
and in adopting the language of the Apostle in reference
to himself and his labors, the preacher took great pains
to show that he did it not in a spirit of vain-glorious
boasting, but under a deep sense of gratitude to God,
through whose goodness he had been enabled to preach
the Gospel without charge, as he intended to do till the
day of his death."
In the evening, a public meeting was held, and
an address from the Church and congregation was
presented, a gift of valuable works accompanying
the address. We can venture only upon one ex-
tract :
"And to you, dear sir, has fallen a rare and uncommon
lot. You are a prophet receiving honor in your own na-
tive village. The companions of 3"0ur childhood and
youth have received from your lips the instructions of
wisdom. Here, in your own home, you are accepted of
God and approved of men.
" While we have no wish to use flattering words, or to
6
burn incense to vanity, we cannot withhold the just tri-
bute of adnairation and respect to the manner in which,
by the grace of God, you have conducted your ministry
among us. Your discourses have been distinguished by a
transparency of meaning and a warmth of emotion which
could not fail, under the Divine blessing, to instruct and
edify. To the sick and sorrowful, your attentions have
been imusually prompt and exemplary ; and those of us
who are 'poor in this world,' have more abundant rea-
son to cherish the most affectionate feelings towards
you, and to declare in this public manner our unfeigned
gratitude. We have shared in your tenderest sympa-
thies. Often, very often, have you strengthened the
weak hands, confirmed the feeble knees, and caused the
widow's heart to sing for joy. Your life has been an ex-
tended illustration of the saying of the Lord Jesus, ' It is
more blessed to give than to receive.' "
For fourteen years after this Jubilee service did
the highly esteemed pastor of the Church of St.
Peter's continue, without fee or reward, to labor
for Christ in that neighbourhood. The Church
grew. Other Churches were organized, and he
had the happiness, before his departure, to wit-
ness great improvement in the religious condition
of the people. Full of years, honored and beloved,
he passed away to his rest, Nov. 1^, 1851, in the
82nd year of his age.
The testimony of friends who were with him
during his last illness, was very comforting and
gratifying to the son, as it came in letters from
time to time. Many of his remarks were remem-
bered and repeated. Frequently did he talk on
the subject of glorifying G-od, and lament that he
had done so little, and that so little concern was
manifested respecting it by professors of religion.
Fonr months before his decease he remarked, " I
have no desire to live but for the glory of Grod, and
I don't see how I can glorify Him much now."
Again, " I don't expect, nor do I wish it to be said
to me, 'Well done, good and faithful servant.' If
the Lord will condescend to say, 'You have been
an unfaithful servant, but I have forgiven you,'
that will be enough for me."
Such was the language of one who, for sixty-
four years, had been engaged in preaching the
glorious Grospel of the Son of God, in his own
neighbourhood and entirely at his own charges,
so far as remuneration was concerned.
And it can hardly be doubted that the spirit of
humility and unselfish labor, so manifest in the
father, had something to do in developing the
same disposition in the sou. Acknowledging the
grace of God as the prime source of all nobility of
character, we may often see the channel through
which the good comes, and admire the wisdom
which links causes and eifects together, so that the
latter are sure to come, because the former came.
The devoted life of the Rev. Thomas Cramp, in
the Isle of Thauet, England, from 1787 to 1851,
helped to furnish a leader for the cause of religion
and religious education in these Maritime Provin-
ces, one to whom the Baptist denomination espe-
cially looked for wise counsel and warm-hearted
sympathy in all times of difficulty.
8
The following is from the memory of one of the
family : —
" My earliest recollections are connected with the little
chapel which we attended at St. Peter's. My grand-
father was a person of dignified and commanding appear-
ance. Hie sermons were plain, docti-inal discourses
thought out during the week. Study he had none, and
of books a scanty supply, when judged by the needs of
modern preachers, but there was a vein of originality run-
ning through his remarks which was well appreciated
and general!}' admired. For many years he was always
accompanied by his little dog, who gravely followed him
up the pulpit stairs, and curled himself under the seat.
He was perfectly quiet and decorous in his behaviour ;
but, if the sermon exceeded the usual length, he would
rouse, and by moving gently about, intimate to his master
that it was time to close."
Many changes have taken place in the Isle of
Thauet since those days. The principles which the
Rev. Thomas Cramp so long defended, have more
advocates now. The church is larger and the pas-
tors better provided for. But modern progress
owes a debt of gratitude to those earnest, G-od-
fearing men, who so faithfully laid the foundations
on which we are still building. The only way to
account for their self-denying efforts, in the midst
of all opposition, is to acknowledge that Grod pre-
pared them to do what a different class of men
could not have accomplished.
The following description of the Isle of Thanet
and surrounding neighborhood, may not be with-
out interest to the readers of this memoir. Especi-
ally when it is remembered that locality has much
9
to do in forming character. We become a part of
all we see and hear and enjoy. It has been kindly
furnished by Eichard Smithett, Esq., of Hengrove
House, near Margate, nephew of Dr. Cramp. So
far as can be ascertained, this neighbourhood has
been the home of the Cramp family for several
generations at least.
This is certain that the three referred to in these
records — Martin Cramp, Thomas Cramp, and John
Mockett Cramp, were all born there.
" England has been compared by an intelligent
foreigner, to a beautiful garden, its land itself looking as
if, instead of the plough, it had been worked up by the
pencil. In no part is this more manifest than on the
southern coast. The ever varying landscape, tinted and
colored, according to the period of the day, and state of
the weather, the lights and shadows of the picture stand-
ing out, in consequence, in greater or less relief, the sun's
rays floating over rich woodlands and pastures in the
distance, the instability of an English sky, obscuring his
light in the close vicinity of the spectator, or, reversing
the scene, the distant and approaching shower, seen from
the heights of the stern cliffs, like a straight line, sepa-
rating the sunshine from the gloom, is an essential to the
picturesque, which no foreign country displays in so
great a perfection."
Tumer^s Southern Coas^t of England.
" The county of Kent, famed for its fertility, forms no
exception to this charming description, and in some
parts, has additional claims of interest from historic asso-
ciations. The term ' Isle of Thanet,' though now strictly
accurate, was in ancient times more visibly appropriate
than at present. Alluvial formations have taken the
place of the broad river beds, and the strait of the sea
10
which once divided it from the mainland of Kent ; vessels
of large burden once sailed where flocks of sheep and
herds of cattle now peacefully graze. Ships, when pos-
sible, avoided the stormy coast of the North Foreland,
and, if bound for the channel, sailed round Thanet from,
the East, and emerged at that part of the mainland over
where the twin towers of Eeculver now stand. The deri-
vation of the word 'Thanet,' has been sought in most
unlikely places, and curious legends are connected with it
in the chronicles of ancient writers, but on the whole, it
seems probable that it was derived from lire (Saxon,
Tan), since there were various beacons along the coast,
intended, doubtless, rather to warn the inhabitants
against hostile fleets, than to humanely point out the
dangerous clitts. Few parts of England, if any, have
witnessed so many invasions as have fallen to the lot of
Thanet. History is silent as to most, but the eloquent
testimony of places of burial is conclusive.
" But, however obscure may be our insight into the
earliest history of Thanet, that island is famed as the
landing place of St. Augustine, with his forty monks, in
the reign of King Ethelbert, in the year 956. The new
missionaries were at first accommodated in the old Bri-
tish Church of St. Martin, at Canterbury, and, after
overcoming many obstacles, speedily obtained a per-
manent footing for their faith, and by their influence,
Christianity gained position and a strength which was
never afterwards subverted, but rapidly increased.
'' The isle of Thanet was the seat of the ancient mon-
astery of Minster, once famed for its vast possessions
M^hich afterwards passed into the hands of the monks of
St. Augustine's Abbey, at Canterbury. The abbey house
still remains, and has been restored, and converted into
a private residence.
" Although this island is somewhat small, containing
11
less than 26,000 acres, it embraces no less than nine
parishes and two villes. Of the former, St. Peter's
(where the father of the late Dr. Cramp was, for fifty
years, a pastor beloved by the members of his own con-
gregation, and respected by those of all other religious
creeds) was one of the most important, and included the
neighbouring town of Broadstairs within its limits.
" The Episcopal church, built in 1184, is a very hand-
some structure, with a lofty tower, from the summit of
which the ordnance and other surveys of the sm-rounding
country have been made. It appears to have been injured
by an earthquake in the year 1580. This shock destroyed
Saltwood Castle, near Hythe, and must have been one of
unusual severity as affecting England.
" A very interesting journal was published in 1836, by
the late Charles Mockett, of St. Peter's, a kinsman of
the late Dr. Cramp. Therein the Cramps frequently
appear, especially an ancestor whose name was Thomas
Crampe, who adhered to the correct spelling of the
ancient fjimily name, from Suffolk, and various offices,
and purchases of land made by members of that descent
are mentioned. The island is remarkable for its fertility
in most parts, and high cultivation in all.
" Enormous fortunes in the olden days were amassed
by some agriculturists, when our constant and prolonged
wars caused all food to command abnormal prices, and
every security. Governmental and otherwise, fell in value.
Two instances are knownof nearly £300,000 having been
computed to have been bequeathed, resulting from such
sources. But those days have passed away, and the har-
vests of golden corn are of little pecuniary value. The
days have passed when the beacon tires warned the scat-
tered inhabitants of Thanet of the dreaded approach of
ruthless Norsemen, when the subterraneous passages,
now known to exist, but only very partially explored,
12
were used as means of flight from one part to another, or
as hiding-places for the weak and tender through age or
sex, doubtless also, as store-houses for food, stock or
moveable valuables.
" Now the invaders bring wealth and prosperity to the
large and populous summer or autumn resorts, content to
carry away with them no other booty than the health and
vigor, so readily offered to, and gratefully received by,
the peaceable hordes sent forth from the huge metropolis,
and countless other parts of England. The old posting
times, and the cumbrous trading hoys (often used as pas-
senger vessels), are almost of the past, and the two rail-
ways bear their tens of thousands in search of strength,
amusement, or relaxation from the iron fetters of
business.
" Numerous hospitals stud the coast, churches have
been restored and founded. Eeligious denominations
work harmoniously together for the benefit of all, and
though the earthly harvests may not be prosperous to
the gatherers and toilers, full and abundant tithes are,
doubtless, accepted and cherished in the eternal granary
of Heaven."
CHAPTER II.
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION.
1796—1818.
" Lord, my first fruits present themselves to Thee .... from
Thee they came, and must return. Accept of them and me."
Herbert.
John Mockett Cramp was born at St. Peter's,
July 25th, 1796. He was, therefore, four years of
age at the time his father was ordained as the
pastor of the church there. According to his own
amusing account of the ordination service, August
1, 1800, while the father was at the church, pas-
sing through his examination and receiving the
ensignia of his office, the son was at home, vigor-
ously pulling up the broad beans, which were at
this time some inches above the ground. And so
the day was well remembered by both.
What wonderful transformations time and Grod's
grace, can effect ! Little would any one have sup-
posed that in fourteen short years from that date,
this father would be listening to sermons from the
son, and soon after, with other grave divines in
14
Council met, to set apart to the Grospel miuistry,
this mischievous boy. And yet so it came to pass.
It was amid the scenes described in the preced-
ing chapter, that his early days were spent. Here
he received his first impressions of life. Here com-
menced the moulding which resulted in producing
a vigorous intellect, great industry of character,
and an unusual ability to perform work. The in-
formation acquired and the work done were both
so great and so varied, that practical men were
often astonished. "While many men may have sur-
passed him in special departments of knowledge,
few indeed could be found with such a fund of
almost universal information, and largely at hand
at a moment's notice, if called for.
A few extracts from his own pen in reference to
early life : —
" My mother. Eebecca Gouger, was daughter of John
and Mary Gouger, of Eamsgate. She died, 1803. My
father married again, the year after. My grandfather,
Gouger, died in 1809, aged 85. My grandmother in 1825,
aged 89.
" I was sent to school at Canterbury, to a Mr. Baines,
in 1806, and removed to Mai-gate in 1808. Under Mr.
Lancaster, who was usher at Mr. Lewis's, I lirst learned
how to learn Latin. I left school in 1811."
We are too far removed from the scenes of these
early school days, to be able to recite any incidents
in connection with them. A boy's freaks of fun,
idleness or industry, failures or successes, do not,
except in rare cases, follow him for three thousand
miles across the water. And if only half the time,
15
forty instead of eighty years had passed since
those school days, no teachers, and but few school-
mates would be found in Canterbury itself, to
recall the incidents connected with them.
" Time and Tide roll on,
And bear afar our bubbles."
Submissive or wilful, at the head or at the foot
of the class, we have no means of knowing. But
drawing reasonable conclusions from what we do
know, the x:)resumption would be that there must
have been great energy of intellect and rapid
development even then.
" I first learned hoiv to learn Latin," implies, to
those who know his modest way always of refer-
ring to his own performances, that already the
main difficulties of that language were conquered.
The foundations of many departments of learn-
ing must have been laid well at that time, for
he continued to build upon them all his life ; and
the building became fair in its proportions and
very substantial in structure.
The quantity of Latin and G-reek read in the
course of his life was very great, and he could read
ordinary French books almost as readily as the
English. The groundwork of all after develop-
ment was laid in those years at Canterbury and
Margate. He left those schools, however, not
with the feeling that his education was finished,
but that it must go on as long as there is more to
be known. This conviction he acted upon till the
end, and strongly urged the duty upon all young
16
men going out from school studies to the work of
life.
We quote again from the Journal : —
" My religious history began in 1812, I attended a
baptism at Shallows — an old meeting house, about half
a mile from. St. Peter's, where Mi-. Atkinson, the officia-
ting minister, stated that the candidate's first convictions
of sin were produced by hearing a sermon on 1 Pet. iv.
18, ' If the righteous scarcely be saved,' &c. The words
Bti'uck me forcibly, and led to thoughts and feelings
which terminated, I trust, in conversion to God. I ap-
peared before the Church and was accepted, Sept. 6th,
and baptized by my father, Sept. 13th, 1812.
" About the same time I commenced the study of GJ-reek,
and made some progress ; the first Greek Testament I
had was given me by the Eev. S. Pigott, Yicar of the
Parish.
" Desires for the salvation of others followed my pro-
fession of religion, and on January 31st, 1814, 1 addressed
the people at the prayer meeting, and continued that ex-
ercise weekly, till I left home in September of that year,
and engaged in theological study at Stepney Theological
Institute, afterwards known as Stepney College."
The Eev. W. H. Newman was president of the
institution at that time ; Rev. J. Young was clas-
sical professor, and the Rev. F. A. Cox, of Hackney,
gave instruction in mathematics.
We quote again : —
" Dr. Newman was a well read man, especially in theo-
logical works, written in the Latin language, as was the
custom of the Continental divines of the two preceding
centuries. He was also an instructive preacher ; his Sun-
day morning service at Bow was usually an exposition of
It
some portion of the New Testament, in which mode of
preaching he excelled. He resigned and was followed
by Eev. J. Young, whose tenure of office was short. He
was followed by Dr. Murch, and he by Dr. Davis. Dr.
Cramp says, ' subsequently the College was removed to
Eegent's Park, under the presidency of Dr. Angus, who
enjoys a high reputation as a professor and an author,
and has been an active member of the Commission for the
Eevision of the New Testament.' "
The following reference to Dr. Cramp, contained
in a letter recently received from Dr. Angus, will
be read with interest in connection with these re-
marks : —
..." Dr. Cramp was, as you know, one of our early
students ; but unhappily, the applications of students for
the first twenty years of our college life have not been
preserved. "When I first settled as pastor in London, in
1837, 1 became personally acquainted with him; and be-
tween 1840 and 1847, 1 knew him and corresponded with
him on matters connected with our Mission, of which I
was then secretary. He bequeathed to our college li-
brary a collection of the works of the Fathers — a very
pleasant memorial of his good will.
" All through those yeai-s, he displayed the same ad-
mirable qualities. He was equally clear-headed and
warm-hearted, bright, unselfish, scholarly, and warmly
attached to Evangelical truth and to nonconformity ; the
friend of all good men, especially of his own brethren.
" The last time I saw him was, I think, in 1873, We
met at the Evangelical Alliance meeting at New York,
and recalled many old friends and many old incidents to
our mutual satisfaction. . . ."
From September, 1814, till May, 1818, the time
seems to have been spent in study at Stepney.
2
18
They were evideutly years of great application,
perseverance and growth. There were during this
time many excursions into various parts of the city
and surrounding country, in order to supply vacant
pulpits, and do good as opportunities presented
themselves. One is thus described : —
" A visit to Norwich in 1816, was very useful to me.
I speut a month there, while the pastor, Eev. Mark
Wilks, was absent. During that time I preached twenty
sermons, and had access to the city library, where I
found the works of the Eev. E. Cecil. I read them with
great eagerness, and have continued their perusal ever
since ; I know not how many times I have travelled
through these volumes. Latterly I have read them over
yearly, and always with greater thankfulness, and much
reverence for the author. Young ministers of every de-
nomination should endeavour to place Cecil's works in
their libraries."
CHAPTER III.
ORDINATION AND FIRST PASTORATE.
1818—1825.
"A workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly divid-
ing the Word of Truth." 2 Tim. ii, 15-
In the year 181Y, the church in. Dean street,
Southwark, invited Mr. Cramp to supply their pul-
pit for a time. His services proved to be accept-
able to the people, and it resulted in a call to the
pastorate of the church. The invitation was ac-
cepted, and on May *7, 1818, the ordination services
took place.
The following account of the exercises is taken
from the Baptist Magazine : —
" On Thursday, May 7, 1818, Mr. J. M. Cramp, late of
Stepnej' Acadeni}', was set apart to the pastoral office
over the Church in Dean street, Southwark, where the
Eev. W. Button had presided during a period of forty
years. The Eev. Thomas Thomas commenced by read-
ing the Scriptures and prayer. The Rev. T, Griffin de-
livered the introductory discourse describing the consti-
tution of a Gospel Church, and asked the usual questions.
20
The Eev. T. Cramp, of St. Peter's, Mr. Cramp's father,
offered the ordination prayer, the Eev. Dr. Newman gave
the charge from 2 Tim. ii. 15. The Eev. T. Thomas ad-
dressed the Church from Eom. i. 11 and 12, and the
Eev. Dr. Eippon concluded the interesting service with
prayer. The hymns were read by Eev. S. Brown, of
Loughton, and Messrs. Coombs, Eeynolds, G-reen, Pope
and Clarke, students of Stepney, were also present."
Some comments . on this service were found
among the papers of him whose ordination is thus
described. He says : —
" The ministers who were engaged in this exercise were
the principal ministers of our denomination at that time
in the metropolis. Their gifts varied exceedingly ; they
were not popular men, but much esteemed in their
churches. There was no laying on of hands, as Dr.
Newman never practised it at ordinations. He regarded
it as a Jewish custom in confirming appointments, fre-
quently adopted in Christian Churches in imitation of the
Jews, and when used by the Apostles after baptism, ac-
companied by the bestowment of miraculous powers,
but as wanting Divine sanction in ordinary cases. It is at
present an open question in the Baptist Churches in Eng-
land."
The connection formed between the young pas-
tor and the Church of Dean Street lasted for about
seven years, till 1825.
They were years of great labor, of earnest
prayers, some disappointments and some success.
The following extract will speak for itself: —
"January Ist, 1820, Another year has begun. May
it be better spent than the last ; more for the glory of
God, the prosperity of my soul, and the good of the
21
Chui'ch. Last night I set apart some time for serious
reflection, and trust I found it j)rofitable. I reviewed the
events of the year, and discovered, as usual, cause for
gratitude, sorrow and self-abasement. As a Christian, the
retrospect is important. In my experience I cannot but
think Mr. Ward's coming and addresses form a new era.
It gave fresh vigor to my thoughts, directed my mind
into a new channel, and was the means of a spiritual re-
vival which lasted some time, the effects of which are not
yet lost. The last part of the year has been but barren,
though I hope I am returning to a better state of things.
I trust I am not presumptuous in believing that I have
been led into a more clear and correct view of the essen-
tials of religion as a transaction between the soul and Grod.
As a minister, I have had much cause for thankfulness.
God has blessed my labors, has helped me in them. O
for more fervor, aj)ostolical simplicity and unction.
This, I trust, I desire more than evei- : to know the will
of God in his Word, fully to understand and faithfully to
preach it, . . . And now, O Lord God, I again give
myself up to Thee. Be with me this year if I shall live.
If thou shalt call for me, fit me for death. . . . Help
me to be more in earnest for my own soul and for the
souls of others, to forget self, to gloi-ify Thy holy name,
to live as for eternity, to pass through the world as a
pilgrim. The text for my sermon to-morrow morning,
' Lord help me ' (Mat. xv. 25) comprises my many feel-
ings on this occasion."
These intense breathings after a deeper consecra-
tion of heart and life are very frequent in the
somewhat imperfect journal of those times. There
was an eager search for truth. References to the
books read show that every effort was put forth to
secure more thorouo-h. knowledo-e of divine thino-s.
99
There were usually three services on the Lord's
day and two or three during the week, and yet we
find in January, 1820 : —
" I have read the 2nd volume of Milner, and nearly
finished the 3rd. I have begun Robinson's works. I have
read also Evans (one of the seceders) on the Trinity, and
it has almost staggered me. Truth, however, is my ob-
ject, and I trust I shall be able to receive it, whatever it
be. I have formed a plan for reading the Scriptures cri-
tically through, a work I hope shortly to commence."
Early in February of the same year : —
"I have read the 3rd and 4th volumes of Milner, and
am now reading the 5th. Have also read the 1st volume
of Eobinson's works and Paley's 'Horte Paulinse.' "
Those who knew the subject of this memoir only
in his later years, and came to regard his views of
Bible doctrine as always sound and reliable, may be
surprised to find that he too had to pass through
his struggles of uncertainty and doubt. And
much of his reading, which was abundant, was
nothing else but an intense earnestness to find the
truth. Such expressions, for instance, as the fol-
lowing occasionally occur : —
" My mind is rather in an agitated, unsettled state. O
Lord lead me into thy truth, and teach me. Dwell in
my heart, help me to love and serve Thee, with all my
powers, make me useful in Thy service."
On February 3, 1820, there is this record : —
" The times are eventful. On Sabbath day, the 23rd,
the Duke of Kent died after a few days' illness, and on
Saturday last, the 29th, our good old King died. On
Monday I was present in the city when George TV. was
23
proclaimed, and now I hear that he is very ill. Oh Grod,
have mercy on Britain."
February 12 : " To-morrow afternoon I am to preach a
sermon on the death of the Duke of Kent.
" I have been busying myself this week in collecting
materials for a sermon on the death of the King, to be
pi-eached next Wednesday, the day appointed for his
funeral, which will be a day of general cessation from
business."
In reference to work outside of the pastoral office,
we find the following entries : —
" Soon after my ordination I began to make use of the
Press as an instrument of usefulness. My first attempt
in this line was a sermon entitled 'Bartholomew Day
commemorated.' The reference was to the ejectment of
the 2,000 from the Church of England ministry. This
was followed by another discourse in commemoration of
the death of King George III., in which the events of the
reign were briefly related and the character of the Sov-
ereign described. Other pamphlets appeared, among
which I may mention an essay on weekly communion,
advocating that practice as being universally observed by
the primitive Churches. I found employment of another
kind as a member of the British and Foreign Bible
Society, and subsequently one of its hon. secretaries. In
this connection I became acquainted with Wm. Allan,
well known as a very distinguished member of the
Society of Friends. Lord John Eussell, afterwards Earl
Kussell, was a regular attendant at meetings of this com-
mittee, and frequently joined the sub-committees which
were held at Mr. Allan's oflace in Plough Court, where he
gave us tea sweetened with East India sugar, because it
was not slave grown.
" I had two denominational appointments, one was a
24
secretaryship of the college, the other ; assistant editor-
ship of the Baptist Magazine, which was at that time
conducted by a ministerial committee, who edited the
publication in turn, aided by their assistants, who re-
ceived £50 a year for their services."
In the year 1820, Mr. Cramp was married to Miss
Maria Agate, a native of Garling, in Lancashire, a
woman of superior mind and ardent piety, who
read much on theological subjects in connection
with independent study of the Bible. But this
union was of short duration. In his own hand we
find:—
•' It pleased God that our union should be short. It ter-
minated in 1823. Our only child became the wife of S.
Selden, well known in these provinces as editor of the
Christian Messenger y
There were various seasons of illness during this
pastorate at Dean Street, and many struggles be-
tween failing health and desire for activity and
usefulness are manifest in the records of the times.
March 12, 1821. "I have been very unwell lately, but
am now better. I have been reading Fuller's ecclesiasti-
cal history, and Hume, intending to pursue my studies in
the church history of our country pretty extensively,
with a view to compiling a book on the subject, chiefly
for young persons."
April 12. "We can foresee scarcely anything. When
I last wi'ote (in the journal) I was engaged in studying
ecclesiastical history. I was soon obliged to desist. My
sickness increased so much and so much -sv eakened me,
that I was obliged to lay aside labor and seek medical
advice. I have not preached for a fortnight, nor can I
even walk a mile without weariness.
25
" Yet I trust that this dispensation has been blessed to .
me. When one stroke will not serve, two must be given ;
first my dear wife was smitten, and now I myself am the
sufferer. So be it, if the end of my trials be but accom-
plished in me, that I may be brought nearer to my God.
I trust that this will be the case ; though I need for this,
as for everything else, continued communications of
grace. Left one moment, I am gone. How humiliating,
and yet so it is."
Because of this illness, there was a season of en-
tire rest from public duties. A visit v^^as paid to
the old home at St. Peter's, in the Isle of Thanet,
in the hope that the change of air and scenery
might help to build up the constitution. The fol-
lowing record refers to that time : —
May 5. " Through mercy I am now returned from
Thanet, better in health than when I wrote last. Hope
I am now recovering. May my renewed strength be
given wholly to Grod. Perhaps He has laid me aside
awhile, because I did not do His work aright, nor aim
sufficiently at His glory, Now that I am about to com-
mence again, may I go in the strength of the Lord God,
with humble, holy fervor and active diligence. I have
heretofore wasted many j^recious hours, and sometimes
exhausted my strength on pursuits scarcely worthy of it.
May it never be so again. My time, my strength, my
talents, are not my own, but God's. There are some
things of which I see the importance more than usually
great, and which I hope specially to guard should the
Lord spare me and again employ me in His work. These
are more personal intercourse with God, and more dili-
gent reading of His word ; a more spiritual manner of
stating the whole truth, with more jjrayer for the Holy
26
Spirit on myself and the people, and a more diligent at-
tention to my private pastoral duties,"
About this time, there were some special trials
for the pastor of the Dean Street Church. The
Church was small. Many of the members were able
to contribute but little. There was a general de-
pression. Some were greatly disheartened. The
majority of the Church were strongly attached to
their pastor, but a few who were the best able to
bear financial burdens were somewhat indifferent.
The result was great uncertainty as to whether
the cause could be sustained. "We find the follow-
ing reference to the case : —
" What will be the issue, I know not, things look rather
gloomy. ... I trust I can say that I only desire to
know the will of God and then to do it, and that I should
have grace to add, ' Thy will be done.' If He should
please to direct me to stay, and still to labor under the
cloud — be it so ; it will be for my good and His glory. If
He should say, ' Go,' I am ready, but I wish to act to-
wards the people as if my mind were perfectly at ease,
and settled, and also to look up to the Lord for His guid-
ance. And He loill guide me. He has ends to answer in
these trials which I shall one day know, and approve.
And He has said, * My grace is sufficient,' this is enough,"
"We may safely affirm upon the general princi-
ples of the Divine "Word, that such prayers were
answered, such strong assurance rewarded. Even
if no chaage of condition could be noticed to war-
rant the assertion, still it may be asserted, that
there were ends to be answered in the trials, and
further results to flow from the quiet submission
to the same.
27
But the journal that reveals the conflict followed
on for a few days, records also the victory.
" JuneY. Though I believe I am better in health, my
strength is still more impaired than ever, owing to the
very violent measures adopted. I am able now to bear
but little exertion, either bodily or mental, but through
mercy I have been able to go through my public work
with much pleasure, and I believe with profit to the peo-
ple, though at the expense of no little exhaustion. Last
Lord's day, especially, my mind was impressed in a way
which I wish particularly to notice. I preached from
Eom. viii. 6, and Eev. v. 9 and 10. In the afternoon I
was particularly elevated and animated, and continued
through the whole day to preach and think with an unu-
sually copious flow of light and energy. After the after-
noon sermon and previous to the Lord's Supper, I was
walking in the vestry, and my mind was powerfully im-
pressed with this idea, that the Lord, in giving me such
light and strength, was, in fact, directing me to employ
my time and talents more especially in the illustration
of His word and the advancement of His cause than I
have hitherto done, and to renounce the idea of uniting
them with anything that would entrench upon these
sacred duties. I have latterly spent much time in scien-
tific and historical pursuits, and I viewed this as a call to
disengage myself more therefrom, and following the ex-
ample of the apostle, to give myself unto jM-aj-er, t*cc.
" My mind continues to be atfected in the same way,
and I ti'ust that the instruction will not be lost upon me.
My own pleasure would be consulted by engaging more
in the above mentioned jDursuits, but our Lord saith, ' If
any man serve Me, let him deny himself.' His service re-
quires sacrifice. May I not be unwilling to give it. O
Lord keep me in this mind."
A little later on, "I will just add that it appeared to
28
me that the reason of my not recovering was, that the
Lord intended to bring me into this state of mind, and to
cause me fully to acquiesce in His pleasure, and that till
this was the case, I must continue to be afflicted. Blessed
be His name, does He not deserve all my time, all my
powers ? May there never be a withdrawment or neglect
on my part."
Deep regret is expressed because of heart waii-
derings and dullness of feeling at the Table of the
Lord. " But," says the record,
" I found relief by confessing it to the Lord as my
fault, and imploring mercy and grace ; from which I
derived this lesson — that it is in vain for us, when in a
dull state of soul, to expect Divine manifestations, till
we have humbled ourselves before the Lord, acknow-
ledged our sin and entreated pardon and strength. Such
has been the experience of my soul lately. May the
Lord keep me in such a frame, humble, holy, watchful,
prayerful, submissive. Amen."
These earnest breathings after a holier life, a
deeper consecration to Grod, during the early years
of the first f)astorate, are very instructive. The
record of them cannot be other than helpful to all
who are longing after usefulness in the great work
of proclaiming Christ ; especially when it is re-
membered that he who penned these thoughts,
thus frankly confessing that he had not yet at-
tained, and was, therefore, far below the ideal
standard, did grow in grace and knowledge, till
the entire Baptist Ministry of these Maritime Pro-
vinces came to regard him both as a pattern of
piety and authority in doctrine.
It may, perhaps, be as well stated here as else-
29
where, that a ruling desire upon the part of the
late Dr. Cramp was to be helpful to the rising
ministry. He had great admiration for superior
ability, and whenever men distinguished them-
selves in any of the honorable callings of life, his
heart, so to speak, was drawn towards them. Eng-
land's warriors, statesmen, philanthropists, filled
a large place in his afiections. But foremost of
them all were the men whose learning and elo-
quence were employed in advancing the kingdom
of Christ in the world. He admired the great and
good of all callings. But he loved the men " called
of G-od " to preach the Gospel. The name was not
essential, but these belonged to the true nobility.
This feeling grew with his years. And although
for nearly forty years of his life he was not acting
as the pastor of any church, he regarded himself so
identified with the cause, that all the pastors had
a prominent place in his thoughts. They were as
his brothers or his sons. And not to be thinking
of them and planning for their greater success,
would have been to him as unnatural as for
parents to cease to care for their children.
For this reason it seems all the more appropriate,
that his thoughts, his resolutions, his aspirations,
while in the pastorate, should be placed within the
reach of that class, particularly for whose benefit
he labored so much. His work as an educator
would have lost more than half its charm for him
only for the thought that an efiicient ministry
was being fitted for the supply of the churches.
30
Aug. 5, 1821, we find the foUowiug: —
" I have great reason to be thankful to the Lord for
the mercy I have received from Him since I wrote last.
I have been led to more active labour in the cause of God,
in which I have found great pleasure. As to my health,
it has been fluctuating. I hope soon to be entirely re-
stored, though at present I am prohibited from preach-
ing more than once a day. I have been led to see more
clearly than ever, the need and importance of Divine in-
fluence, both as a Christian and a minister, and of prayer
to obtain it. The promises on this subject have much in-
terested me, as well as the facts contained in the Scrip-
tures, the answers to prayer and the assurances of the
connection between asking and receiving. The result has
been that my own soul has been aroused to more earnest
seeking the Lord ; I trust that I have enjoyed more seasons
of delight in this exercise, and I feel a happy confidence
that I shall be led into the truth, both in the knowledge
and experience of it, and that the Church will be revived.
At the same time, I have seen my own deficiencies,
failings and faults. More : there has been too much in-
dependence, hastiness and self-importance in my conduct
with the people ; too much of the pride of talent and far
too little humility before G-od, and earnest following after
Him in private. Why have I been led to see these things 1
Doubtless for some good and laudable purpose. Certainly
for the glory of God and my own good. How happy,
how honored should I be if this be the case. O for more
of the Divine Spirit, more life, fervor, energy : that my
text for to-morrow, Eph. iii. 17, may be realized in my
own soul, that I may be filled with all the fulness of God.
How precious and how profitable has the Word of God
lately been ; and in the Church some good is being done.
Two persons, if not more, are about to come forward.
31
These are tokens for good. Oh, that I may be kept
humble and praj'erful.
" I have read with pleasure, Scott's ' Force of Truth/
Wilson's ' Sermon for Scott,' Jay's sermon on the words,
' Brethren pray for us,' and Ward's ' Fai-ewell Letters.' "
A month later — "Sept. 18th. The Bible has been a pre-
cious book to my soul ; the way of salvation through our
Lord Jesus Christ, and wholly by grace, has appeared more
glorious and suitable than ever, and the importance of an
experimental acquaintance with it greater ; in the exer-
cise of faith and love, I have found unspeakable pleasure,
and can truly say that my views of the Divine character,
and my approaches to the divine throne have been accom-
panied with holy delight before unequalled. A great desire
ever pervades my mind to know the will of God, especially
as to the way of salvation ; and to have a comjjrehensive
idea of it ; the more I think and search, the less I seem to
know. May the Lord bless my public endeavours. As
to the Church, the Lord is graciously remembering us.
Four persons are about to come forward. The congre-
gation has impi'oved, a better spirit is prevalent. I have
begun to act upon a plan of visiting the people by taking
one day in the week for that purpose, and this also pro-
mises well ; in short, I must say, ' Bless the Lord, oh,
my soul.' "
The followiug* letters to a member of the family
refer in part to this period :
" My dear
" Time rolls round, as the poets say, and brings the
anniversaries with it. To-morrow will be your birthday.
I wish you, according to custom, many happy returns of
it. There are no new reflections to suggest. It is the
old story — * goodness and mercy.' You have got through
the duties and difficulties of another yeai", and so it will
32
be during the whole pilgrimage : nor is that all. It is
not a mere negative. Not only is it true that nothing
will harm a Christian, but even chastisements are for his
profit, and ' all things work together for good.' Thus,
ours is a blessed lot ; the past has been mercy, and the
future will be mercy. Yea, ' goodness and mercy ' will
follow us all the days of our lives. So we will ' trust and
not be afraid.'
" July, 25, 1873. I am this day 77 years old. As I
lay in bed this morning, I thought of these words of the
Psalmist : 'I am as a wonder unto many.' Those who saw
my feeble infancy and my frail boyhood, and those espe-
cially who knew me fifty years ago, running the gauntlet
of the physicians in London, would not have dreamed
that I should be alive to-day. But here I am and still
able to work, though with diminished strength. The
review of the past is of the same character as on former
occasions. There are mingled emotions : astonishment,
— gratitude, — regret, — distrust, — hope. The best motto
is Psalm xxiii. 6.
" I have been amusing myself, by noting where I was
on the double figure birthdays.
" Thus— 1818, when I was 22, in London.
I
1829,
" 33,
Sowell Street.
" 1840,
- 44,
Bromstone.
" 1851,
" 55,
Wolfville.
" 1862,
" 66,
College, Wolfville
" 1873,
" 77,
Wolfville.
" The next, 1884.
88 will not be
seen on earth. Bu1
there is a place where anniversaries are unknown, be-
cause time will be no more. There may we all at last
meet a redeemed family.
" January 5, 1822. Thus far I have been brought.
The last year was an eventful one to me. What this
may bring, God only knows. My times are in His hands,
and He is wise and good. This is my comfort."
Following is a reference to Mrs. Cramp's failing
health, and fears are expressed that there may be
an incurable disease.
"If so, she cannot survive a great while: we must
part. O what shall I do? In what a desolate state
shall I be ? a cheerless, comfortless being. Yet, it may
not be for some time. God may be merciful. Let me
remember that He is all sufficient, and will give grace
for the trial. There I leave the matter. I have begun
another yeai-. Oh, that it may be better spent than the
last. If not, I shall have had the rod in vain."
Mrs. Cramp's health failed rapidly after the re-
cords above were made, and she died, January 29,
1823.
" Dec. 31, 1823. I have reached the last day of the
year. How it has been spent, I can hardly tell. I can
only say, it is gone, gone like a dream. Widowed and
alone my time has been much occupied in study. I have
labored more in this respect than in any former year,
and I hope to some good purpose. I have also opened a
Lord's Day evening lecture, and have commenced with
a course of sermons on the person and work of our Lord
Jesus Christ, in preparing and preaching which I feel
much interested. But the cause at Dean Street is very
low. I am sometimes much perplexed and cast down.
Whether I ought to stay or go, seems sometimes doubt-
ful. I trust the Lord will direct me."
It appears that the principal, if not in fact, the
only difhcnlty, in connection with the cause at the
Dean Street Church, was a financial one. Those
able to support became disaffected or indifferent,
and the ordinary results followed.
34
" Jul}^ 1824. When the accounts of the church were
audited, it was ascertained that a considerable deficiency
existed. A special church meeting was called, when,
without consulting me at all, it was resolved that for the
future, I should have what was collected, without stating
any hxed sum, I did not feel myself justified in making
any further sacrifice, and therefore, after consulting Mr.
Burls and some others, told the church my mind at
another special meeting."
This action of the church, led to the resignation
of the pastor, and a separation, painful alike to
pastor and people. There is this reference to it : —
" I much regi-et this event, for there are ver}- promis-
ing indications among us : the congregation is increasing,
the lecture is well attended, and several young persons
wish to come forward. On the other hand, however,
there seems to be a spirit of coldness and indifl:erence
upon the part of certain members, so that they will make
no further effort. The bulk of the church are much
grieved, but I am satisfied that I am doing right. Never-
theless, I cannot understand it. It is altogether mys-
terious. May I be directed."
The latter part of 1824 and the beginning of 1825,
was a j)eriod of some trial. In addition to bereave-
ment, and perplexity in reference to the affairs of
the church, there was a severe attack of illness.
"Jan. 30. It is the Lord's Day, and the seventh of my
confinement to my house. It has pleased the Lord to
afHict me veiy severel3^ For three weeks I was con-
sidered by the physician in danger. But the Divine bles-
sing was vouchsafed to the means employed, and I am now
fast recovering, though I have not yet been out of doors.
" That this dispensation has been designed for my spi-
ritual good, I cannot, must not doubt. I hope that I am
35
already deriving benefit from it. I had been resting too
much on official religion; there was too little personality,
if I may so speak, in my godliness. The Lord has caused
me to retire from the bustle of life, and bids me meditate
and \n-ay and turn again to himself. that I may do
it with my whole heart and serve him with more fervor
and strength than ever ! The consequences of this trial
are likely to be very important. I am forbidden to reside
in London, or to preach three times a day. I am told
that I must give up some of my engagements, and make
the preservation of my health my main ol^ject. So it is
most likely that I shall relinquish the idea at present of
taking any pastoral charge ; seek some respectable em-
ployment, literary or otherwise ; live a little waj- out of
London, and preach occasionally. This will make a great
change in my life, and what may be the nature of my en-
gagements, I cannot tell. But I am enabled, in a good
degree, to commit all unto the Lord, who will ' choose
my inheritance ' for me. I have much pride and inde-
pendence about me ; perhaps it is now intended that I
shall feel my dependence on the Divine care, and have
my daily bread supplied as it were daily, and not with
my own exertions. Well, be it so Whatever mj- Grod
ordains, will be for ni}^ good. Only this I pray, that I
may be permitted still to do something for God."
The pastorate of the Deau St. Church closed with
the services of Lord's day, Aug. 22, 1825. It was
a day of mingled feelings. There was thankful-
ness, joy and sorrow. Thankfulness for the good
that had been accomplished, for the advance made
in knowledge, some growth in holiness. Joy in the
thought that there was no break in the feelings
of love and esteem between the pastor and the
church. They had been seven years of honest toil.
36
and mucli good had been done. Truth had been
set forth clearly, and principles boldly defended.
We have no means of giving the number of
additions to the church. Although there are fre-
quent references to persons offering themselves for
membership and to baptismal occasions, the num-
bers are seldom given. These, of course, were
kept in other records, which are not in our hands.
But enough is given to show that there were
seasons of refreshing, when pastor and people
rejoiced together.
But there was much sorrow. Deep regret that
circumstances compelled a separation. Health
was much impaired. There were doubts whether
it would be possible again to resume the work so
congenial to the feelings. From any human stand-
point there was, therefore, much of anxiety and
uncertainty as to the entire future course. There
had been deep grief during this first pastorate.
The union formed in 1820, and which promised
much comfort at the time, was broken off in 1823.
The wife, and mother of the first child, was laid
away to rest. The father was left with enfeebled
energies to look out upon the world and face its
difiiculties alone. Thus, in the furnace of afflic-
tion, the Lord prepares those destined for great
usefulness in the world. " To be of some service "
was the constant desire, both spoken and written.
And, as in many other cases, by ways that he
understood not, the prayer was being answered.
G-reat usefulness lay before him. G-reat perplexities
and trials were the paths leading to it.
CHAPTER lY.
MISCELLANEOUS LABORS.
1825-182^.
" Such let my life be here. Not marked bj' noise, but by suc-
cess alone. Kot known by bustle, but by useful deeds."
"We have materials here for a very short chapter.
Partly because the period was short, aud partly
because it constitutes a break iu the life work. lu
tracing a stream, so long as the body of the water
keeps together, although there may be many turn-
ings and windings, yet the course may be followed
without difficulty. But if the obstructions become
so numerous and great that the stream itself is
divided, and takes divergent channels, one may be
in doubt whether he is following the main branch
or some smaller outlet. Dr. Cramp's life, for two
or three years just here, was in an unsettled state.
His work was of various kinds, and one could hardly
say which was the chief. His residence was in or
near London. A portion of the time was given to
seeking for health. His physicians told him that
he had been overworked, and that his only hope
of permanent recovery was rest or an entire change
> 38
of work. This period includes a portion of the
time that he playfully represents himself as " run-
ning the gauntlet of the physicians." The time
that no one would have dreamed that he could live
to be an old man.
It was hard, however, for a man of Dr. Cramp's
temperament to rest long at a time, even if the
state of health demanded it. He engaged in vari-
our literary pursuits. He examined manuscripts
and reviewed books for the Tract Society of Lon-
don. Large works were abridged, so as to be suit-
able for distribution among the masses of the
people. Many efforts were put forth on behalf of
popular education, a matter in which Dr. Cramp
was deeply interested.
About the time of his first pastorate in London,
the subject of popular education was pressing itself
upon the British Government and the legislators
of the kingdom. But few schools existed to sup-
ply the demands of the rapidly growing popula-
tion of the laboring classes, especially in the larger
cities. Lancaster had recently introduced his
method of giving the masses the rudiments of
learning at a cheap rate, and efforts were being
made to extend the system throughout the king-
dom. The British and Foreign School Society had
been recently formed for the purpose of promoting
this good work. Among the friends of this move-
ment, the Rev. Mr. Cramp was recognized as one
of the leading minds, and at the anniversary held
in Freemason's Hall, on the 10th May, 1824, His
Royal Highness, the Duke of Sussex, being in the
39
chair, the following resolutions were unanimously
adopted by the committee and the public meeting,
respectively : —
" This committee having considered the importance of
the openings now presenting in different parts of the
world and the extensive correspondence which is likely
to ensue, is of opinion that the services of two honorary
secretaries will be necessary, and therefore proposes
that the Eev. J. M. Cramp be united with Francis Cress-
well, Esq., in that office.
"That the office of honorary secretary, which had
been held from the commencement of this Society by
the late, ever to be lamented, JosejDh Fox, and which has
continued vacant since his death, be now filled up, and
that Francis Cresswell, Esq., and the Rev. J. M. Cramp
be appointed honorary secretaries of this Society."
By means of this appointment, Mr. Cramp had
wide scope given for extensive usefulness in the
cause of popular education, and was brought into
intimate relations with the more prominent friends
of education and the leading politicians of the
day, none of whom were warmer advocates of
this Society for many years than the late Lord
John Russell.
When it is borne in mind how much Grreat
Britain was indebted to this Society for the spread
of general enlightenment amongst the people at
that day, before any general provision v/as made on
behalf of its common schools, and when education
depended upon the charitable bequests of benevo-
lent persons or private adventurers, it will be seen
what appropriateness there was in this appoint-
ment, and how well he was suited to such a wide
40
field of usefulness — that he was emphatically " the
right man in the right place " — which ofiice he
continued to fill for several years.
In harmony with this movement, and partly to
promote its interests, a new publishing company
was started in London : the object being to furnish
cheap literature for the people. Dr. Cramp under-
took to superintend the literary work of this
company. The result may be given in his own
language : —
" The interval (since the last record) has been filled
with momentous events. The society for promoting
general knowledge mentioned in my last, did not succeed.
The publishing company engaged the premises, 24 Pater-
noster Row, and soon formed extensive connection;^. I
stipulated that I should only take the literary depart-
ment, such as examining manuscripts, correcting for the
press, &c., (ki-., and should not be requii-ed to occupy my-
self further. I soon found, however, that more than this
was necessary, and I was engaged ordinarily in business
from breakfast till tea time. The effects of this occupa-
tion were most disastrous in a spiritual sense. With
sori'ow I must record that my soul became increasingly
barren and lean during the whole of this period."
We find in the journal of these years many re-
grets for coldness and heart wanderings, many
confessions of unworthiness, which forcibly re-
mind one of a fact to which the Doctor, in after
years, frequently called attention, that is the
beautiful simplicity of the Old Testament saints,
in humbly confessing their own wrongs. One
said, " Few and evil have the days of the years of
my life been." Another, " I am not worthy of the
41
least of all the mercies." And again, " But, as for
me, ray feet were almost gone ; ray steps had well
nigh slipped." And, David, " I acknowledge ray
transgressions, and ray sin is ever before rae."
Paul, " Not raeet to be called an apostle, because I
persecuted the Church of G-od.'"
In addition to literary labors, and the efforts in
behalf of general education, there w^as much
preaching in supplying vacant pulpits during
these years of uncertainty. An average of con-
siderably over one sermon a week for the whole
time. And yet. Dr. Cramp never reviewed this
period of his life with satisfaction. He felt that,
in a certain sense, they were lost years. He had
been turned aside from the channel of his life
work. And some of his own references to the tirae
would lead to the conclusion that his connection
with the short-lived publishing company, had
proved disastrous to him in financial, as well as
in other raatters. Whatever he suffered, however,
he regarded it all, in after years, as needed discip-
line, and a part of the one Divine plan in working
out the results of his life. He was no anti-noraiau,
and yet he believed that a guiding hand had been
leading him all the journey through. Light and
shade, rightly blended, make a pleasing picture.
One event, however, of this period stood out in
strong contrast from many of the others. To this
he never looked back with regret, but regarded it
as a special mercy from Grod, and given as an oft-set
to much that was painful.
On February 1st, 1826, Mr. Cramp was married
42
again. The second Mrs. Cramp was Miss Anne
Burls, daughter of "W. Burls, Esq., of Lothbury.
He regarded himself as singularly fortunate in his
choice.
And as the years rolled by, it became more evi-
dent that " fortunate" was not the word to employ,
but " providential," and that the " choice " was
less his own, than that of the One who was direct-
ing his way. A record of his own, may express
the gratitude. After a reference to his marriage,
he says : —
" Two years and a half have elapsed since that event.
Blessed be God for his goodness. My beloved is every-
thing I could wish — pious, prudent, careful, amiable, re-
tired, modest, most sympathizing and kind ; a treasure
indeed. The providence of God singularly directed to
this union ; I received her from tlie Lord, to Him be all
praise,"
This union continued 36 years. It closed July
26th, 1862. But the opinion expressed above,
strengthened as the years passed. And all who
enjoyed the intimate acquaintance of Mrs. Crampi
would cheerfully testify to its correctness.
Shortly after the sad separation in 1862, the be-
reaved husband published a small pamphlet, en-
titled, " A Portraiture from Life." It was a sketch
of the history of the one who had been taken away.
It was not designed for publication, but rather for
perusal by the friends of the family. The picture,
however, was so lovingly and tenderly drawn, and
the one who drew it, having now gone, we think
43
that there can be no impropriety in inserting a
few extracts. He says : —
" Her parents were persons of eminent piety, held in
high esteem by all with whom they Avere associated.
They were members of the Baptist Church, then meeting
in Carter Lane, Soiithwark, of which the Eev. Dr.
Eippon was pastoi", and which is now under the care of
the Eev, C. H. Spurgeou. Her father was one of the
deacons of the church. He was also for many years
London treasurer of the Baptist Missionary Society. Her
religious advantages were of no common order, and were
no doubt, greatly blessed to her. She was led to give
herself to God early in life. The following is her own
account of her conversion : —
" ' I can hardly remember the time when I did not feel
some interest in serious subjects — a love to God's people —
and a great pleasure in committing to memory, hymns,
passages of Scripture, &c. Thus it was with me till 1810,
when it pleased my Heavenly Father to visit me with a
severe illness. I was obliged to leave school, and for
some months could not leave my room. Then did I es-
pecially feel m}- need of an interest in Jesus, and I longed
to lay hold of that hope which I felt I had been only look-
ing at. My dear parents often spoke to me, but I was
unable to tell any one what was pasNing within. Gain-
ing some strength, change of air was desired, and Ketter-
ing was the place fixed upon. There, my dear mother
placed me under the care of an old and valued friend of
hers, who not only supplied her place, with respect to
those attentions my situation required, but often spoke to
me of the things belonging to my everlasting interests.
There also I had frequent visits from Christian friends,
and when able, regularly attended Mr. Fuller's ministry.
About this time I was much impressed under. a discourse
I heard him deliver. It was an exposition on John xv.
44
1-5. On my return from the house of God I fj-eely opened
my mind to the friend with whom I was placed. She
encouraged me to hope that I was really united to the
'living Yine;" but I felt there was something wanting,
and I longed for more evidence of a renewed nature. A
few days after, it pleased the wise Disposer of human
events to destroy my expectations of complete restoration
to health. I caught cold one evening ; an inflammation
of the lungs followed, and I was considered in danger.
My own impressions were that I should never be raised
up again. My distress, at first, was extreme : distance
from my beloved fj-iends — every circumstance added to
the anguish of my mind. But God was pleased to
"speak peace unto me," and enabled me to resign mj-self
into His hands. I felt Him near to me, and could look at
death without much dismay. The 276th and 277th
hymns of the selection, I found contained the language
of my heart, and I almost longed to be where I should
grieve my best Friend no more. But God was pleasetl
to bless the means used for my recovery, which was very
rapid, so that in April, 1811, I returned home.'" After
some other statements, the account proceeds : — " I then
determined that, in the Lord's strength, I would avow
my attachment to Him and His people. I had found I
could live upon the Fountain, and that there was enough
in God to make me happy. Thus, in April, 1812, I was
united to the church (in Carter Lane, then under the
ministry of Dr. Eippon). I cannot say I enjoyed much
at that time. The adversary was permitted to harass
my mind with the ajjprehension that I had done wrong;
but I trust God accepted the surrender, and has enabled
me to make it again and again. Dillerent means have
been used to show me the hidden evils of my heart. I
have proved that God never inflicts a wound he could
safely spare. My conquests have been slow and incou-
45
elusive ; but I trust I can look forward to the period when
I .shall wield no more the ' warrior's sword ' but ' wear
the conqueror's crown.'"
'"The above was written in 1824, in which year my
acquaintance with the dear departed one commenced.
We were married Feb. 1, 1826. Since that time I have
had, of course, full opportunity of observing and know-
ing her manner of life. We have travelled together in
sunshine and storm ; we have climbed the hills and des-
cended into the valleys ; we have tasted of the " cup of
salvation," and we have drank some bitter draughts :
joy and grief, hope and disappointment, with other con-
traries, have fallen to our lot ; — and now, " one is taken
and the other left." The survivor is called upon to dis-
charge the last office of friendship and love.' From the
baptismal vow to the departure heavenward. Christian
uniformity of demeanour was observable in the lamen-
ted deceased. It was a quiet walk with God, a well
sustained endeavour to exhibit, in temper and conduct,
the influence of the Gospel. Her gentleness of sjjirit
and retiring disposition shrank from the whirl and
bustle in which some find themselves at home, and
Christian graces shone in a limited sphere, yet not less
brightly. When she entered into the marriage relation,
wider scope for the manifestation of love and zeal was
furnished, bringing into operation powers and qualities
which had not been before developed. Nearness to God
was habitual. Her times of retirement for meditation
and prayer were sacredly observed. They were hal-
lowed seasons. She came forth from her chamber re-
freshed, and prepared for labour or conflict. How she
was occupied while there; — what Divine communings
she enjoyed ; — how closely and impartially she examined
herself, in regard to principles, feelings, aims, and mo-
tives; — and with what earnest pleadings, she sought
46
Grod's blessing, especially on her children, cannot be
told ; but enough is known to warrant the conclusion
that the hours of her withdrawment from society were
spent in heavenly exercises, the effects of which were
seen in the whole course of her life.
" These habits wei-e conjoined with maturity of cha-
racter, to which indeed, they largely contributed. Her
piety was at once intelligent and warm-hearted. Unlike
many Christian professors, who satisfy themselves with
the rudiments of religion, and are therefore ever at un-
certainty respecting their state, she desired to ' compre-
hend, with all saints, what is the breadth, and length, and
depth, and height, and to know the love of Christ, which
passeth knowledge,' that she ' might be tilled with all the
fulness of God.' . . .
" She enjoyed in a high degree the pleasures of bene-
volence, esteeming it an essential part of the Christian's
calling to tread in the steps of Him, who ' went about
doing good.' Her whole training, in the family and in
the church, tended to this result. She had seen bounti-
fulness at home in manifold forms, and her conduct
proved that she had learned the lesson well.
" Our denominational objects were dear to her heart ;
especially the foreign mission, with which she felt par-
ticularly identified, having had frequent opportunities of
forming acquaintance with missionaries when they were
sojourning for a while under her father's hospitable roof.
Her co-operation was frequently sought and cheerfully
given in connection with the multiform plans of useful-
ness in which Christian females take delight. The poor
experienced her kindest sympathies, and no small amount
of relief was afforded to them both from the purse and
from the ' basket and store.' Afflictions, many and
various, were endured. Children were taken away, and
near relations removed, by death. Sickness, losses, disap-
41
pointed hopes contrilmted to swell the list of her sor-
rows, and sometimes the ' waves and billows ' followed
each other in rapid succession. She bore all with sub-
missive jjatience. . . .
" Warning was given, several years befoi*e her death,
when it was ascertained that she was the subject of a
disease (an affection of the heart), the final blow of which
might be pari-ied for a while, but would at length fall
fatally, and might come on a sudden. She received the
warning with composure, and was thankful for it, be-
cause it so powerfully enforced the necessity of habitual
preparation. From that time, she sought to live as ' dy-
ing daily.' . . After an interval of suffering, endured
with characteristic sweetness and submission, the peace-
ful close of the quiet life, thus described, took place at
Wolfville, July 26, 1862."
The following letter was addressed to his oldest
son, the late Thomas Cramp, Esq., of Montreal,
shortly after his return home. It had been a very
sad family gathering, but the writer of the letter
could see that there had been much of mercy
mingled with the bitterness of the cup : —
"August 11, 1862.
" We all felt your departure very much, but could not
feel thankful enough that you had come, and that you
came just when you did. It seems to have been merci-
fully ordered by a kind Providence.
" The recollection will be mournfully grateful to you,
especially connected with the assurance that your visit
contributed so materiallj' to the relief and comfort of the
dear departed. . . . Mr. de Blois ])reached a good
funeral sermon on the Lord's day after you left, from
Psalm cxvi, 15, — the funeral text for your grandfather
48
Gouger, fifty years ago. I have written a paper en-
titled, ' A portraiture from life.' It contains a sketch
of your dear mother's character, and an account of her
death-bed experience. . . . not meant for the public
eye, but printed for circulation among our friends.
" I could not feel satisfied without doing something of
the kind ; for though xce cannot forget what we have
seen and heard, there is a large circle of relations and
friends to Avhom such a document will be very accept-
able, and it will tend to perpetuate your dear mother's
memory in a suitable manner. I trust it will do good,
as an additional testimony to the reality and power of
religion ; for so assuredly it must be regarded. Contrasted
with the delicate reserve of former life, that death-bed
freedom and fulness of communication could not but be
regarded as striking. Certainly God was there, influen-
cing and blessing the soul of the dying one. The recol-
lection of these scenes must be instructive to us ; we shall
dwell upon them with deep interest, and seek to become
better acquainted with that ' form of godliness ' which
Avas associated with so much power, and life, and hope.
I desire to feel the quickening effect in my own soul,
labouring henceforth as one who has but a short time to
live, and setting before me the bliss and purity attained
by those who have gone before."
CHAPTER V.
CO-PASIORATE WITH HIS FATHER.
1827-1842.
" Year after year he trod the round of patient toil, plodding,
preaching, praying — the lamp of his zeal was fed with 'fresh
oil ' from the fulness of God."
The event which changed the course of Mr.
Cramp's life occurred in June, 1827, about four-
teen months after his second marriage. This was
the sudden and unexpected death of his only
surviving brother. After explaining some of the
circumstances and symptoms, he says : —
" I took my station in the room and left him not, till
he breathed his last very early on Friday morning. Oh
it was indeed a trying, an agonizing scene : I had not
seen death before. I loved my brother. I saw him die.
On the following Friday, he was buried, and on Lord's
day, June 10th, a funeral sermon was preached for him
to a crowded congregation from 2 Cor. v. 1-5."
The record continues : —
"This afflictive event operated in an entire change in
all my prospects. My father felt his inadequacy to the
cares of business, and the labors of the pulpit. After
4
50
mature consideration it was arranged that I should leave
London, reside at St. Peters, and occupy the farm at
Bromstone, latel}^ occupied by my brother. And here
I am at home. Business requires but little of my care.
I share the labor of the ministry with my father, and
am gratiiied to know that the people are pleased there-
with. I think I am in my right place."
The followiug- is from " Reminisceuces of a
member of the family " : —
" In 182*7, my father left London and went to reside at
St. Peter's, where he assisted my grandfather in preach-
ing at the Baptist Chapel of that village. Many of the
people were poor, and had not been trained to give of
their substance for the support of the G-ospel, so that it
was necessary to do something more, to aid in providing
for the expenses of a growing family.
" For several years, the literary tastes formed while
living in London were made to subserve this end. The
Tract Society furnished him with congenial work, and
was enriched by many books, compiled, abridged or
otherwise prepared by his own facile pen. This was
work which he loved, and for which he had great ap-
titude.
" In 1832, he removed to a farm in the neighborhood,
but amidst all the extra care and labor, his pen was never
idle, and his study was his cherished retreat. Pastoral
labor he did not fully enter into, but in those days three
services on the Lord's day was the rule. My grand-
father always preached in the moraing, leaving the
other two sermons for his son; there was also a prayer
meeting on Monday evening, and a shoi-t discourse was
usually given on another night, later in the week, so
that he had more than enough to tax his strength and
enero-ies.
51
" My father was very partial to singing, and as his
children grew old enough to join in the exercise, they
were always expected and encoui-aged to do so. It be-
came a custom to employ a short time on the Lord's
day morning, l^efore starting foi- service, in this way. The
fiimily were brought together, and various hymns were
sung. There were no Moody and Sankey books in those
days, but our service of song was culled from ' Watts '
or the ' Selection.' Memory recalls two of the favor-
ites : 'Safely through another week,' and ' Sweet is the
work, my G-od, my King.'
" Four of the loudest and sweetest voices of this family
circle ai-e now hushed in death ; but the time will come
when all will unite again, though in a sweeter strain.
" As we grew up to years of understanding, my dear
father was anxious that the subject of personal relio-ion
should be considered."
"While yet quite a child, and away from home,
the following letter was received : —
" April 5th, 1834.— We were very glad to hear that
you are well, and doubt not that you are very hapjjy.
But we cannot be quite happy, you know, unless we
love God, and try to serve and honor Him, according to
the directions of the Bible.
'• Xow none of us can say we have done everything
that we ought to have done. We have sinned against
the Lord very often, and deserved his anger. Even you,
my dear child, young as you are, must confess that you
are a sinner ; bad thoughts, bad tempers, bad words, are
sins as well as bad actions. You know this ; do you feel
it ? Does it grieve you to think, that you have sinned
against the Lord ? Do j'ou pray to him for forgiveness
and for a new heart ? Do you love to think of Jesus
who came to earth to die for sinners, and do you look
52
to him to be your Saviour? All this must be done if
you wish to be saved ; let it be done now, for to-moi-row
is not ours."
Two years later, the following was received : —
" Saturday night,
" July 16, 1826.
" My dear —
" I have just finished a day's hard work and completed
my prej)aration for to-morrow ; but I cannot retire to
rest, without placing on this paj)er the expression of
my feelings respecting you at the present time.
" To-morrow your friend is to make a public profes-
sion and avow herself a lover of the Lord Jesus. She is
younger than you, my child. I cannot tell you how
much I feel it. You have sat together to see others
baptized — but to-morrow you will be separated. You
have sat together to witness the celebration of the Lord's
Supper — but now she will be within, and you will be
without. Oh, what delight would it give me to see you
also within. But I could not consent to your admission,
till I possessed satisfactory evidence of your having a
new heart, hating sin and loving the Lord Jesus, and
striving to be holy and like Him. You have knowledge,
but this alone will not save yon. You have sinned, and
must repent ; you are guilty, and must look to the Lord
Jesus for salvation ; your heart is depraved, and must be
renewed by the Holy Spirit, or you cannot go to heaven.
Would you go there ? Then seek the Lord while He
may be found.
"When you have read this, take the first opportunity
of retiring, and pray earnestly to the Lord for pardon
and grace."
These earnest, loving, faithful letters show that
no amount of public labor could drive paternal
58
anxiety from the heart. But the writer was iu
the habit through life of pressing personal reli-
gion upon intimate friends by the pen rather than
in conversation.
The literary labors, during the time of this co-
pastorate, were abundant. " A Text Book of Po-
pery " was written, comprising a history of the
Council of Trent, and a translation of its canons
and decrees. Also funeral sermons were pub-
lished on the death of King G-eorge lY. and
William lY. " The Reformation in Europe " was
written for the Tract Society ; and articles on a
variety of subjects, from the same pen, found their
way to the magazines and weekly papers.
The journal of those days discloses an intense
desire for personal growth in holiness and useful-
ness in the cause of truth : —
"I hope that my labors here have been in some res-
pects useful, especially in reviving the Sunday School
and the Auxiliary Mission Society. We have also insti-
tuted a special prayer meeting to be held monthly, for
the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
" I have been lately reading the life of Philip Henry,
that heavenly-minded man. I feel the need of more
seriousness, more of the Spirit of God. Oh ! that I may
be able to live as a redeemed one ought. With a view to
personal growth and extended usefulness, I purpose, iu
the strength of the Lord, to consider the following sub-
jects as specially to be meditated on, with prayer and
deep concern, on the days mentioned."
Then follows a plan for each day in the week,
showing that these desires for advancement were
no mere idle aspirations, but intensely practical
54
efforts to reach the highest possible point of at-
tainment.
Those who. in later years, sat under the instruc-
tion of Dr. Cramp, and frequently wondered at
the extent of his knowledge of the Bible, as well
as the depth of his experimental acquaintance
with almost everything pertaining to the Chris-
tian life, and especially the trials of the Christian
ministry, would have better understood whence
the power came, had they been permitted to peruse
his journal in the earlier years of his life. His
desires for a greater grasp of truth, and more use-
fulness in the Church were most intense.
There was, in fact, an intensity of earnestness
that never manifested itself at all in any of his
public utterances. It was a sort of reserved
force, which though unseen was impelling to
w^ork, driving on to action all the time. And
hence the secret of so much accomplished. The
fact is there was no stopping ; there was no rest,
except by constant change of occupation.
Sometimes there is a grateful acknowledgement
of goodness and mercy. Again a humble confes-
sion of want of zeal and love ; a lamentation that
there was so feeble a sense of the presence and
power of Christ, so little earnestness in prayer,
such a feeble grasp of the promises.
Then such Resolutions as the following : —
"' In dependence on Divine grace (for I cannot confide
in myself), I do hereby resolve :
'' 1. That I will pray more.
55
;' 2. That I will read the Scriptures more carefully,
and pray over each portion read.
"3. That I will be more observant and watchful of the
state of my mind, temper, &c.
"4. That I will cultivate religious conversation, in
which I have been deticient.
" 5. That I will endeavor to act in all the relations of
life, more in the spirit of Christianity.
" G. That I will earnestly labor after a tender, feeling
sense of the value of souls, and the importance of truth,
so as to resist shamefacedness, and not shun to speak
to men of their eternal interests.
" 7. That I will, at least once a week, set apart some
time for an exercise similar to this, for self-examination,
abasement before God, and prayer and praise.
" Who can tell what G-od may be about to do ? Lord
help me, keep me, give me grace to fulfil these intentions.
May the remainder of my life be spent for Thee."
July 25, 1831. " This is my birthday, on which I have
completed my thirty-fifth year.
" I have enjoyed some degree of gratitude and
chastened pleasure. Among the thoughts that occupied
my mind was this, ' Where shall I be thirty-five years
hence ? ' I covild not anticipate so long a continuance
on earth, but I was enabled to look forward with humble
joy to the realms of bliss, and to entertain a hope that I
should be there, joining the glorified in their holy and
heavenly celebrations, ' Far from a world of grief and
sin.' The thought was delightful. Ought it not to be
stimulating, too ? Time is rapidly passing away, how
diligent, active, devoted, should I be. Lord help me to
be so. But oh ! how much cause have I for continued
humiliation before God! My heart seems so dull that
nothing can move or affect it. On every hand I see
56
reasons for self-abasement. I have indeed to begin every-
thing afresh. I desire to do so. May the Lord deign to
begin again with me, for my salvation and His glory."
Such are the feelings, the lougiug aspirations of
one who even then was actively engaged in suc-
cessful endeavours in making known the truth,
one who was regarded by his brethren as among
the brightest of the saints. Doubtless, many, far
inferior to him in both mental and spiritual attain-
ments, regarded themselves as models of excellence,
and patterns of piety. What a different estimate
men put upon their lives and acts, when the grace
of Grod operates in the heart I
These resolves and prayers were followed by re-
newed consecration to the work : — the labors more
abundant, the sermons more earnest, the appeals
more pungent and spiritual.
Aug. 20. About a month after the last entry, we
find the following, referring to seasons of medita-
tion and prayer : —
" The difficulty I find in fixing my thoughts on these
occasions has led me to consider the propriety of prepa-
ring a series of enquiries to be instituted whenever I re-
tire for special meditation and prayer. They are such
as these :
" 1. How is my heart affected in prayer ? Is there the
spirit of adoption ?
"2. Do I realize the presence and the character of
God?
" 3. Do I feel a deep sense of my insignificance and
vileness? Do I plead the promises? Do I believe and
expect ? Am I watchful over my besetting sin ? Do I
cultivate those virtues and graces in which I am most
57
deficient? Am I daily doing something for the souls of
my family — my wife — my children — my servants ? Does
tenderness of conscience continue and increase ? Have I
lively, close, realizing views of truth, especially of those
truths which are immediately essential to the salvation
of men ?
" What have I read lately, and with what spiritual
advantage ? Have I had any edifying intercourse with
my Christian brethren ? Am 1 conscientious in the em-
2)loyment of my time ? And do I preserve order in this
matter, jDreferring supreme to subordinate objects? '"
Here we have again a leading characteristic of
him whose life we are studying. Comments seem
needless. It might be better to say nothing, and,
simply allow the reader to ponder for himself upon
this wonderful record. "What heart-searching en-
quiries ! What minuteness in details ! What
honesty of purpose ! What determination, by
Grod's grace, to find out where the secret wrong-
was, if any, that might stand in the way of fuller
displays of heavenly grace, so as thus to become
more instrumental of good. Surely, to every ear-
nest Christian, who knows what these struggles
mean, the memory of the man, who, in his secret
chamber, and in his Isle of Thanet home, recorded
these solemn resolves, will become doubh' dear.
This is no official piety, nor any external form of
godliness. These are the secret, sincere struggles
of a human soul, under the stimulating influences
of Grod's grace, panting for a divine life and closer
walk with G-od. And yet the remark may be ven-
tured, that not one of those most intimate with the
Rev. J. M. Cramp at the time these records were
58
made, had the slightest idea that he was thus
wrestling for the victory. They thought that he
had already attained.
The compiler of these records thought that he
knew him tolerably well. The acquaintance com-
menced in 1851, and did not end till 1881. He sat
under his instructions in classics and in theology.
He enjoyed many of his public lectures and ad-
dresses. He listened to his sermons and w^ent
home weeping and condemned. And yet he is
free to say that he never really knew Dr. Cramp,
till after his decease, when the seal of secresy
was removed from his private papers.
In September, among many other things, we
find this record : —
" The more I look mto myself, the less I think of my-
self. I need to be converted anew. Have pity upon me,
Oh Lord, have pity, upon me. Save me. Sanctify me.
Fit me to enjoy and glorify Thee, and to be useful in
Thy cause, whatever it may cost me.
" Possibly, this may be in its results a fearful petition ;
for surely it will require much to make me an ' able
minister of the New Testament,' and perhaps some cut-
ting and pruning will be necessaiy, that will make both
flesh and spirit smart. Still, if I know my heart, I do
really wish to be of some service in the cause of God, as
well as to make personal advance in piety. I leave my-
self in the hands of the Lord"
Again, a little further on —
" I have this evening resolved that I will especially
consider, in my devotional exercises, the following sub-
jects : —
" Lord's Day — My own soul.
59
" Monday — The Ministry.
" Tuesday — My family.
" Wednesday — My friends.
" Thursday — My efforts in the cause of God.
" Friday — The state of the Church.
" Saturday — The state of the world.
" May God give his blessing."
These extracts from the journal, bring ns to the
time ah'eady referred to, when Dr. Cramp removed
to the farm at Bromstone. The immediate cause of
his leaving London and coming home, was the
sudden death of his brother, who had been in
charge of his father's farm. The Rev. Thomas
Cramp was entirely taken up with the care of the
church, and needed assistance, both in preach-
ing, and in matters of business. And so, after due
deliberation, it was arranged that the son should
unite with the father in the work.
But the church, for all the previous years, had
been supplied without the necessity of paying a
salary. This was, of course, very kind upon the
part of the pastor ; but it was a very bad training
for the church. Dr. Cramp often spoke of it as a
mistake. For it was inducing and fostering the
habit of neglect of the Christian duty of giving to
the Lord. And no church will be likely, under
such circumstances, to become healthy, strong or
progressive.
A change, however, could not be made sud-
denly, nor was it attempted to any great extent.
The plan was for Dr. Cramp to superintend the
farm, and thus secure a support for his family.
60
How lie viewed this contemplated change may be
gathered from his own record while it was still in
prospect : —
"■ Dec. 27, 1831. My mind has been much occupied of
late respecting" a contemplated change of residence, and
mode of life. It will not ta£;e place till Michaelmas next,
but it will be important. I believe it to be the will of
Grod. Circumstances render it imperative. My duty to
my family calls me to go and reside on the farm, and
undertake its practical management. This will induce
considerable change. My literary purposes must be cut
off. But little time will be spared for my study. I must
lelinquish my favorite jjursuits, and engage in others less
congenial to my tastes and habits. But it is the will of
God, and to it I desire humbly, and even cheerfully, to
bow. Important designs may be to be answered by it,
mysterious as it at present seems.
" I have endeavoured this evening to surrender myself
unreservedly to the Lord, in reference to the whole, that
He may do with me as He pleaseth. That passage much
dwelt upon my mind, ' Even Christ pleased not Himself.'
My studies have pleased myself; they have been a source
of enjoyment. But this was not an end for the Son of God
to seek. Why should I wish to do otherwise than my
Lord ? No,let me give up everything, that God may be
glorified.
" Henceforth, my reading must be eminently devo-
tional and ministerial ; perhaps it may have a good ettect.
God grant it. It has occui-red to me that my ministry
has not been sutficientiy doctrinal. I must direct my
attention to this thought. Alas, I seem to know nothing,
to have done nothing. Yet, 1 do read the Word of God
with much more pleasure and profit than I did some time
since. I am determined to read it more and more."
61
Following this there are expressions of thanks-
giving and gratitude. A number have offered
themselves to the church, and in relating their ex-
perience, stated that the sermons to which they
had listened were the means of their conversion.
Mingled with this joy there is the voice of
lamentation : —
" March 2, 1832. This morning it has pleased God to
visit me with a new and sharp trial. After sutt'ering
about three weeks from the whooping cough, in a very
violent form, my lovely babe has left this world of sor-
row and entered glory. It is, indeed, a severe and heart-
rending affliction. My soul is wounded to the quick.
The child was greatly endeared to me ; his faculties were
beginning to expand, his engaging ways were attractive,
and the personal attentions which my dear wife and my-
self rendered in his illness had drawn him closer to our
hearts. But God has a prior claim. . . . Perhaps He
intends to wean us much more from creature love, that
we may be more fully possessed by Himself, and there-
fore more useful. Be it so. It is the Lord. Withered
and desolate as I feel this day, surely 1 am bound
humbly to submit, yea, acquiesce in an arrangement
which has my own good ultimately in view, and may
enable me to glorify God. Lord help me ! "
About this time, probably in 1835, Mr. Cramp
was appointed Gruardian of the Parish of St. Peters,
under the Poor Law Amendment Act. England
contains the two extremes of wealth and poverty.
Probably, the wealthiest nation in the world, but
many of the inhabitants extremely poor. Under
previous laws, the support of the poor was be-
coming a terrible burden. There were not only
62
those actually poor to be cared for, but hosts
of worthless and idle people, well able to sus-
tain themselves, were relying upon the public
bounty. When the thing became unbearable, the
law was changed. The provision made was that
those asking help must give up their homes, such
as they were, and go to the Poor House to be pro-
vided for. The cost of keeping the poor was re-
duced nearly one-half in this way.
The Guardians had charge of this matter, each in
his own parish. Mr Cramp was appointed Guar-
dian, and soon after he was selected as chairman
of the Board of that body. It was a very resi3onsible
position. The law having been recently passed,
there was no precedent for action. Everything
had to be taken up from the beginning. Much
patient investigation into the condition and claims
of the parties to be provided for, was imperative.
Many references to this period in his journal, show
that he was giving time, energy and thought to
the duties of this office, but that there was much
in connection Avith it far from desirable to one of
Mr. Cramp's tastes and habits. It did not bring
him into contact wath literary or spiritual life.
That the duties of the office were, however, dis-
charged in a manner satisfactory to the parish,
may be gathered from various sources.
On his retirement from the position, after three
years of incessant toil, a beautiful silver salver
was presented, w^hich contains the following in-
scription : —
63
THE VICAR, CHURCHWARDENS, OVERSEER AND (JENTRY,
Of the Parish of St. Peters.
— TO —
JOHN MOCKP]TT CEAMP,
In testimony .of eminent services rendered by him.
In the Years 1835, 1836 and 1837,
When acting as the first elected Guardian of the Parish of St. Peter,
AND AS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF GUARDIANS OF THE
ISLE OP THANET UNION.
It w^ill be uoticed that this presentation was not
from persons in sympathy with Mr. Cramp's re-
ligious views, and is, therefore, a testimonial pure
and simple as to the ability and fidelity of the
recipient.
The following document from the Board itself
was found among some old papers. There are
twenty-five names attached : —
''May 11th, 1838.
" We, whose names are undersigned, being or having
been members of the Board of Guardians of the Isle of
Thanet, during the last three years, feel ourselves bound
in duty to Mr. John Mockett Cramp, fur the important
services which he has rendered to the Board as chairman,
to state, in a public declaration of our sentiments, the full
conviction we entertain of his eminent qualifications for
the office of Auditor of the East Kent Union.
" We, therefore, take this opportunity of recording
our exjjerience of his punctuality in the fulfilment of
official engagements, of his courtesy in transacting busi-
ness, and his accurate perception of all 2)articular8 which
may most effectually and satisfactorily accomplish the
salutary purposes of the Poor Law Amendment Act."
All of which must have been eminently satisfac-
tory to the retiring chairman. It would, probably,
have convinced many persons in similar condi-
64
tious, that they had been iu the rioht place and
doing the right work.
There are, however, different standpoints from
which to look at things. Mr. Cramp had his own.
He was not as well pleased as others seem to have
been. His own record may explain : —
"■ This Avas a laborious and thankless office. The place
of meeting was six miles from home, and the meetings
were weekly, besides occasional duties in the interval. I
was brought into connection with worldly men, and
placed in a situation which exposed me to considerable
obloquy. I do not know that any good whatever resulted
from it. It was one of my mistakes."
The " obloquy " referred to, doubtless arose from
the complaints of the undeserving and dissatisfied
poor, who wished to choose their own mode of life,
and yet receive constant aid from the parish. There
were, doubtless, many unpleasant and even painful
things, in the execution of the new law. Families
were necessarily broken up. Husbands and wives,
parents and children were separated. And yet the
change was absolutely essential to relieve the tax-
payers of the heavy burdens they had been bear-
ing. And if all the G-uardians had been as kindly
disposed as the chairman, doubtless, was, perhaps
the grounds for complaint might have been even
less than they were.
As we gathered from the sketch of the Isle of
Thanet, farming operations in that section of
country were formerly A'"ery remunerative. But
these were the days of good crops, little competi-
tion, and consecjuent high prices. England can
never be again what it once was in this respect.
65
The world's abundant surplus is now poured too
easily into London for this to be. And even at the
time when Mr. Cramp shared the pastorate with his
father, and undertook to relieve the latter, in his old
age, from the care of the Bromston farm, the profits
on farming operations were not large. In fact, the
care of the farm proved to be neither congenial
nor remunerative. How could they have been
either the one or the other ? No business can run
prosperously by itself. Mr. Cramp's tastes and
habits were not in the line of this work. He was
born for books, the study, the platform, the press,
the pulpit. At these tasks he felt at home, and as
might have been expected, he left the workmen to
go on with the farm work, while he attended to
his. The result was that, after sustaining consider-
able loss of worldly means, the farm w^as given up.
The lesson would seem to be : let no one under-
take a business for which neither nature nor train-
ing has qualified him.
The preaching, however, was greatly enjoyed,
and the literary labours were persistent. The
church was stimulated and strengthened. It was
the second instance in the same neighborhood in
which a prophet was receiving honor in his own
country. It would be gratifying if we could weave
into this account some reminiscences of those days.
But this is impossible, for we have no access to
the records of the church. We cannot give the
dates of revival times, the numbers that were
added. Nor can we show by statistics what ad-
vance was made, during the fifteen years, in those
5
66
great principles of religious equality, converted
church membership, loyalty to Bible teaching,
freedom of speech, rights of the personal conscience
in all things sacred, which were so firmly held
and vigorously maintained by the co-pastcr of the
Church of St. Peter's. But that all these principles
were being made known, and better and better
understood by the people generally, we can not
doubt. And among the scanty records, there are
frequent references to hopeful indications, the
special means employed to awaken a deeper inter-
est in spiritual matters — baptismal occasions, &c.
Sometimes there are found expressions of joyful
thanksgiving for the prosperity granted to the
church. All of which shows that there was con-
stant advancement upon the part of the church as
well as of the pastor.
The following extracts from letters written
during this period, will show the intense earnest-
ness of the writer. They show that his methods
were most thorough, and that he had no desire to
build up the church out of any unsound materials.
With him, emotion or sentiment would not do in-
stead of genuine piety. There must be the evidence
of thorough conversion and full consecration, other-
wise parties would not be encouraged to seek ad-
mission to the church.
The letters were addressed to his oldest daughter,
afterwards the wife of S. Selden, Esq., formerly of
Hastings, England, now of Halifax, N.S-, and so
well and favorably known in these provinces, as
the editor and proprietor of the Christian Messenger.
I
61
" Thinking that perhaps it would be easier for
me to put thoughts and feelings on paper than to
speak personally on the subject of religion, my
dear father writes, while I was attending school :
' October 29, 1836.
' I expect that two members of my Bible class will
shortly be baptized. This reminds me of my dear M
Is she concerned about religion, and her soul ? Does she
seek God ? Has she a new heart ? Write to me, my dear
child, and answer these questions. Tell me your real
feehngs and desires on the subject of religion. Let me
know the actual state of your heart. . . .'
" Three years later he wrote again, while I was
away from home : —
' April 19, 1839.
' Yesterday evening, the following persons attended
our church meeting, and will be baptized next Lord's
Day. ... I think there are others ready to come,
who will, probably, be baptized before the Ordinance day
in May. It is on that account, desirable to know your
own views and feelings on this important subject.
' If, my dear child, you have been led to see your sin-
ful state, and to confess and hate your sin ; — if you ])er-
ceive and acknowledge the righteousness of God in your
condemnation;— if you believe in the Lord Jesus, the all
sufficient, gracious, and only Saviour, and are content to
be indebted to the free grace of God in Christ for your
own salvation ; — if the love and service of God are your
delight, and eminence therein the object of your constant
prayer and effort ; — and if, with these views, you are
willing to commit yourself to Christ and His church, to
walk in all His ways, and do His will, nothing on earth
can give me greater pleasure than to place your name
on the list of candidates. . . .'
68
" My reply elicited the next extract : —
' April 27, 1839.
' To recognize you as a subject of grace, a sister in
Christ, aifords me far higher pleasure than can possibly
be derived from any other considerations. Persevere in
your resolution to abide by the word of God, and make
it your principal study. The better you become ac-
quainted with that holy and heavenly book, the more
thoroughly will you be convinced that God is its author,
and that it contains truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but truth. "He that believeth, hath the witness in him-
self" Confiding faith has its appropriate reward. It has
been well said of the Bible, that no bad man could write
it ; and that no good man would, unless it were true, since
it would impeach his honesty, and invalidate his credit.
The infidel would persuade us that all is a delusion. Be
it so, it is a happy and a holy delusion, and we are the
better for it, all through life, especially in our sorrows :
he has nothing half so good to substitute in its place. If
he is right, we are in no worse condition for being believers,
since there is no penalty attached to our faith ; but if not,
then of what vast consequence ' that we should believe.'
Blessed be God, the evidence is so clear and strong, that
the difficulties of infidelity are much greater than those
of faith. And then, if we are satisfied that the Bible is
God's word, it is of the greatest consequence that we cul-
tivate a humble, teachable spirit — that we be willing to
wait for the fuller discoveries of another world — and that
we count it no strange thing if we are sometimes baffled
and perplexed. The entire comprehension of all things
is only possible to God. If, therefore, suspicion at any
time arises in your mind, regard it as a temptation,
which, if yielded to, becomes a sin, and will bring
sorrow. Believe and be blessed. Youi* answer to my
questions, my dear child, gladdens my heart. You have
69
given yourself to Christ, and you wish to serve and honor
Him, in His own ways. Come, then, and do so, and say :
' I will go in the strength of the Lord God.' I cannot
recommend delay. Enter the fold, that you may partake
the food of the flock, and be more secure from harm. . .'
"The next year he gives some excellent advice
as to the deportment of a young convert in differ-
ent surroundings from those of home life : —
' March llth, 1840.
' Do not forget, my dear child, that temptations are
linked with every mercy, and adajjted by our great
foe to all the situations we occupy. It is now a sea-
son of indulgence with you. Take care lest it become
a time of dissipation, and your spiritual energies be
thereby unnerved. Let not your soul be defrauded of its
nourishment by your carelessness or neglect ; you can
only preserve its health by constant recurrence to the
word of God and prayer, and it must be your aim to se-
cure stated seasons for privacy, as frequently as possible,
without infringing on the rules of decorum, or appearing
unsocial. By this means you will be better prepared to
sustain your character as a professing Christian and a
member of a Christian Church. Do not forget that you
have this character to sustain, and that more is expected
from you in consequence.'
" In 1841, my father left St. Peter's and settled
over the Baptist Church at Hastings, in Sussex.
The portion of his life included in the years spent
in the former place, was a most important one.
He was then in the full vigor of his mental and
physical powers. Full of energy and unceasing
activity, few men could have gone through the
work he managed to perform. Beside the super-
70
vision of the farm, he had constant and unremit-
ting literary labour ; two sermons on the Lord's
Day, and one during the week, beside the con-
stant vigilance necessary where a young family
were growing up, needing a father's wise direc-
tion and judicious counsel. They were also, in
many ways, years of painful and trying discip-
line, but the Lord, in whom he trusted, brought
him through, and step by step guided his pilgrim
wanderings to a peaceful close at last, honored
and revered by his loving children, and held in
affectionate remembrance by numerous friends.
' The memory of the just is blessed.' "
The co-pastorate at St. Peter's closed, as stated
elsewhere, in 1841. The immediate cause was the
invitation from the church in Hastings, Sussex, to
take the charge of it. Mr. Cramp first supplied
the pulpit for three months, and then assumed the
pastoral charge.
The desire for thorough work noticed in the
extracts above, characterized every effort in which
he engaged. Work half done or carelessly done,
was to him worse than not done at all. This gave
to his published works a value that otherwise they
could not have possessed. He must be sure of his
ground before he would venture upon a declara-
tion. He seldom had occasion to correct what
once went forth from his pen.
The comprehensive means employed in order to
secure accuracy, may be gathered from the follow-
ing letter, written at the time he was preparing
71
one of his published works. It was addressed to
Dr. F. "Wayland, President of Brown University,
Providence, R.I.
" St. Peter's, Oct. 31, 1836.
" To Eev. Dr. Wayland,
" Rev. and Bear Sir, —
" Although I am personally unknown to you, I feel
assured that any communication from a Christian brother
and fellow-labourer in the Gospel, to whatever country
he may belong, will be received with your accustomed
courtesy, and treated with all due respect.
" Afew years ago, I published a small volume entitled,
' A Text-book of Popery : ' it was favourably received
here, though not extensively circulated. My esteemed
friend, the Ptev. H. Malcolm, of Boston, sent me, last year,
a copy of the American edition. The manner in which
it is quoted and referred to in some of your periodicals
induces me to hope that its re-publication in the United
States will be of some service to the great cause of Pro-
testantism.
" The Popish controvers}^ still engages my attention.
I am now employed under the auspices of the Eeligious
Tract Society, in preparing for the press, small works on
the subject, adapted for general circulation.
" Anxious to render any historical statements I may
give as perfect as possible, I find it necessary to initiate
correspondence with Christian ministers in different
parts of the world, whose situation and means of informa-
tion are such as to enable them to assist me in the prose-
cation of my researches.
•'With these views, 1 now address you, presuming that
the state and progress of Popery in your western world
cannot but have engaged your serious attention.
" I wish much to ascertain to what extent the reports
that have i-eached this country, are entitled to credit.
12
We hear that Popery is rapidly on the increase — that its
agents are indefatigable in their endeavours to subvert
Protestantism and diffuse their iron tenets ; — that they
are liberally aided by the Pope, and by certain funds de-
rived from Austria ; — that their seminaries for education
are of a superior kind, and offer such attractions as in-
duce many unwary Protestants to entrust their children
to the careof their bitterest theological foes; — that many
young persons, both in and out of these seminaries, have
been (by sophistical reasoning, and allured bj' the pomp
of superstition) led astray and persuaded to embrace
Eomanism ; — that the influence of the Papists is begin-
ning to be felt in the elections ; and there is reason to
apprehend, at no very distant interval of time, their pre-
ponderance in the valley of the Mississippi and the Wes-
tern States, and, by consequence, throughout your Union,
M'hose future condition seems likely to be considerably
modified by the influence of these States,
"My inquiry is, how far are the above-mentioned state-
ments true ? If you can aid me by answering the ques-
tion, by directing me to accredited sources of information,
or by procuring the kind co-ojjeration of any other
brethren who may feel disposed to correspond with me
on the subject, I shall be very greatly obliged. In retui-n,
I beg to say, that I will most cheerfully render you sim-
ilar assistance in regard to any inquiry that you may
wish to institute respecting this country.
" I have addressed this letter to you, because I con-
ceived that the important and responsible station you
occupy, necessarily brings under your notice whatever
aftects the religious statistics of your noble land.
" When your valuable discourse on the ' Moral Dignity
of Christian Missions' was rej)ublished in this country,
I embraced an early opportunity of perusing it. It ap-
pears to me that the chiu'ches of Clirist in America
•73
have largely imbibed the spirit which breathes in your
pages. There is a dignity in your plans and operations
which betokens far-reaching views, grand designs, and
heaven-inspired faith. Long may you, rev. and dear
sir, be spared, to train the spiritual children of the
churches for engagements in the ' enterprise,' of which
you entertain such just and exalted sentiments !
" I do not know that it is needful to add that I belong
to the same denomination as yourself, and have been
engaged in the ministry nearly twenty years — first in
London, and since 1827, in this, my native place.
" The Eev. Dr. Cox, formerly one of my tutors, and
whom you know, would have added a line attesting the
above, could I have met with him in time. Having no
present occasion to go to London, I must waive the ad-
vantage of his introduction, and throw myself on your
candour.
" I am, dear sir,
" Yours in the bonds of the Grospel,
'*J. M. Cramp."
CHAPTER YI.
PASTORATE AT HASTINGS.
1842-1844.
" No eye can see
The changing course which life may take."
Hastings, a favourite and beautiful watering
place in the county of Sussex, was the next scene
of labour, Mr. Cramp having become the pastor of
the Baptist Church in that place.
His journal, from which occasional extracts have
furnished information with regard to previous ap-
pointments, gives no record of the short period,
about two years, spent there, and family memorials
are scanty.
Some few interesting details have, however,
been obtained, and are given in the following : —
" Eecollections of Eev. Dr. Cramp.
" By S. Selden, Esq.
" My earliest recollections of Dr. Cramp, date back
several years before I had seen him. When quite a lad
of fifteen or sixteen years of age, about the year 1834, 1
regularly read the London Patriot, a weekly newspaper,
ably edited by Josiah Condor, representing the Dissen-
15
ters— Baptists and Independents— and the monthly Bap-
tist Magazine. In these periodicals, articles and letters
frequently appeared over the signature ' J. M. Cramp.'
The controverisy on the Bible Monopoly was one of the
leading topics of that day. Pj-evious to this, the Church
of England Universities alone had permission to print
Bibles, and consequently the price was much higher than
if the monopoly were broken up. Whilst some of the
articles and letters written on this subject were long and
tedious, the occasional letters of Mr. Cramp were terse,
incisive and forcible, and of course were i-ead with avidity
by all interested in the wider circulation of Gospel truth,
and the progress of freedom. Sunday school teachers
o-enerally took great interest in this matter, and it was
perhaps, owing to the immense petitions from them to
the Parliament, that the friends of cheaper Bibles were
eventually successful. The circulation of the Word of
God was immediately immensely increased.
" Mr. Cramp also occasionally wrote in the Patriot on
other subjects :— Church Eates, Tithes, Education; and
all matters relating to civil and religious liberty re-
ceived his careful consideration ; and his ready pen was
employed in their discussion. His letters were always
readable, forcible and convincing. Those who were con-
cerned in the removal of the disabilities under which the
Dissenters were then placed— whether churchmen (of
whom large numbers wished for the reform), or Dissen-
ters — read what was written, and took an active part in
seeking to get rid of the obnoxious and oppressive re-
strictions. It was only by slow degrees that advances
were made against the power and corruption that existed.
Yet, progress could be discerned, and every concession
was used to hasten its course.
" Having myself become a member of the Baptist
Church on its formation in my native place, Hastings,
16
about the year 1835, I went with a friend, a few years
my senioi-, to attend a session of the West Kent and Sus-
sex Baptist Association, held with the Church at Bessels
Green, in the county of Kent,
"During the first meeting I was much gratified by hear-
ing it announced that the delegation from the East Kent
Baptist Association — Eev. Mortlock Daniel, of Eamsgate,
and Eev. John M. Cramp, St. Peter's, Isle of Thanet, had
arrived. After they were introduced to the Association,
they were formally addressed by the Moderator, and
welcomed to a participation in the deliberations of the
body. I had not then had any personal introduction to
Mr. Cramj), nor had I the most remote idea that we
should ever meet again. A few years after this, however,
the Baptist Church at Hastings, was without a pastor.
They had a handsome stone house of worship, with a
minister's residence attached to it, erected principally by
the beneficence of Jose^ih Fletcher, Esq., a wealthy ship-
owner of London, given by him as a thank-ottering for
the restoration of his daughter's health at Hastings.
" Its first pastor, Eev. P. J. Saftery, having been
called to labor in London, Eev. John M. Cramp, of St.
Peter's, was recommended to the church as a suitable suc-
cessor. Mr. Cramp came to Hastings in January, 1840,
and preached there for about three months. His ministry
proved highly acceptable, and in answer to a unanimous
invitation which he accepted, he removed with his family
in March of that year, and labored with good success for
about two years. Being one of the deacons of the church
from its formation, I had intimate acquaintance with Mr.
C.'s plans of church work. Whilst he was, at all times,
actively seeking revival influences, he sought to make
them continuous, and orderlj'- in their operations — the
development of Christian character, and the result of a
reception of the truth as it is in Jesus,
11
" Heretofore, Mr. Cramp had defended the moderate
use of alcoholic drinks, but in addition to the j^rivate and
public discussion of the question, a circumstance occurx'ed
which resulted in an entire change of opinion and prac
tice on this subject. A member of the congregation, a re-
tired merchant, and husband of one of the most esteemed
members of the church, appeared in the prayer-meeting
two or three times, slightly intoxicated, and disturbed
the meeting by making some incoherent remarks. I had
been a total abstainer several years, and well remember
the morning that ]\Ii'. Cramp came to me with a pledge
of total abstinence, which we signed ; he proceeded to
induce others to append their names, and succeeded in
getting quite a number of persons to join us and labor in
the cause of temperance.
" Whilst at Hastings, Mr. Cramp delivered, on succes-
sive week evenings, the excellent course of lectiu*es on
important subjects, subsequently published in London, in
a volume of 308 pages, under the title, ' Lectures for
these Times.' "
An incident of this period may here interrupt
the foregoing narrative. Mr. Cramp's interest in
ths Sunday school connected with his church, led
him to request the favor of a hymn for an anni-
versary occasion, from the pen of the poet, James
Montgomery. The characteristic letter in reply
is subjoined, with the hymn, which does not ap-
pear in general collections, and has, probably,
never been published.
"The Mount, Sheffield, 1842.
" Dear Sir, — I thank you for having given me, after
the lapse of years, an opportunity of acknowledging the
sin, first of procrastination, and then of omission, which
78
I committed against your kindness, when you sent me a
copy of your valuable 'Text-Book of Popery,' and for
which I now humbly ask forgiveness. In truth, how-
ever, these are such frequently besetting sins with me,
and I have so repeatedly resolved and re-resolved in vain
to mend, that I dare not promise never to do so again.
Besides indolence habitual, and infirmity constitutional,
I am so overpowered with the liberality of friends and
strangers in conferring such and other tokens of goodwill
upon me, that I am always in arrears of gratitude, gen-
erally the more felt the less it is expressed, because it is
ten times easier to do a duty at once than to bear the re-
bukes of conscience for neglecting, especially neglecting
so long as to be too late to do it at all, without a new and
imperative call, such as you have given me, and if the
foregoing verses be of no other value in your sight, I trust
you will accept them as an acknowledgment, perhaps,
' better late than never,' of the old, not obsolete, obliga-
tion afore-mentioned and of my sincere rej)entance. You
will please to use them for your benevolent, Christian
purpose, or not, as you deem expedient.
" And believe me,
" Truly your obliged friend and serv't,
" J. Montgomery.
" Eev. J. M. Cramp.
" P. S. — Thank you for your excellent initiatory ad-
dress to your congregation. May they be indeed a
* Church ' in the sacred sense, and you long the angel of
it, and a star in your Lord's right hand."
A HYMN FOK CHIDRBN.
Lord Jesus Christ, the children's Friend
On us lift up Thy gracious hands,
And from Thj holy temple send
Blessings on our united bands.
19
How precious in Thy Father's sight
Were children's souls when Thee He gave,
His only Son, his heart's delight,
From hell to heaven those souls to save !
What love to them, what love was Thine,
Meek Lamb of God ! when Thou didst give
Thy soul, a sacrifice divine,
Dying Thyself that they might live ! •
Nor less the Holy Spirit's grace,
When by His light He Thee reveals.
As though they saw Thee face to face.
And them as heirs of glory seals.
Are children's souls of such high price ?
With grief and gladness may we see
How sad their loss in Paradise,
How great their gain on Calvary.
Our own no longer. Thine they are :
In mercy bind them to Thy cross,
Safe only from the tempter there.
From second death and final loss.
James Montgomery.
•' Higher Collegiate Education for persons having the
Baptist ministry in view, was to Mr. Cramp a matter of
deep concern. He, about this time, entered into exten-
sive correspondence, witli the object of establishing a
plan which seemed likely to promote the best interests
of the churches. The colleges in Stepney and Bristol
were then almost the only institutions of learning belong-
ing to the Baptists in England, and it was thought by Mr.
C. and many others, that an arrangement among the
ministers in different parts of the kingdom, might be
made, by which four or five students, after passing their
collegiate course, might spend some time with them in
further theological studies, and in preaching at mission
stations in the neighbourhood of their churches ; and by
80
that means become familiar with church work, under
the supervision and direction of these more experienced
men, before entering fully upon the duties of the settled
pastorate. However, whilst these projects were under
consideration, and before anything practical had resulted,
a communication came from the Baptist .Foreign Mis-
sionary Board in London, inviting Mr. C. to the Presi-
dency of the Baptist College at Montreal. This, after
due deliberation, was accepted by him. He left Hastings,
and with his family sailed from London, in April, 1844.
" The farewell meeting at Hastings was attended by
a large number of ministers and other friends; the leave-
taking between pastor and people being marked by
many evidences of genuine affection existing between
them, which continued for years afterwards, and some
are still living there, who, after the lapse of nearly half
a century, cherish the memory of his pastoral work
among them."
An extract or two from his last addresses, or lec-
tures rather, to his own congregation at Hastings,
may illustrate the spirit in which he was going
forth to the work.
" We only see now the beginning of the end. A great
conflict is at hand. Church tyrants are maturing their
plans, and marshalling their forces for the fight, sternly
resolved to gain that ascendency over the human mind,
for which the dark ages were distinguished, and to
trample their opponents in the dust. But the eyes of
men are opened. Knowledge is everywhere diffused.
Education is all but universal. We have the Bible, the
Press, and above all, a noble army of intelligent Christians
in both hemispheres, who are prepared to make a bold
stand for truth and primitive godliness, and to use vig-
orously those weapons of warfare which are not carnal ,
81
but mighty through God, to the pulling down of strong-
holds. The battle will be sharp, probably long, and some
painful reverses may be experienced by the advocates of
New Testament piety. Nevertheless, let no man's heart
fail him. The cause is Clod's, and victory is sure. The
time is coming when the Bible shall again be the book
of the church — when personal godliness shall be regarded
as indispensable to fellowship — when the supremacy of
the Lord Jesus shall be acknowledged by all — when the
operations of the Spirit shall be unchecked — and when
the people of God shall be one — a happy, harmonious
family — one fold, under one Shepherd. The Lord hasten
it in His time."
Cheering farewell words these to his fellow-
laborers in England. Although when he nttered
them he was not aware that they were among his
last utterances in his native land.
A little nearer still to the time of his departure
he addresses them thus : —
" But whatever be the conflicts and controversies in
which we may be engaged, it should be our concern, that
all may be conducted in a religious spirit. The great
object must be to publish and defend the truth, in such a
manner that souls may be brought to God. To that, every-
thing should be subordinate.
"How powerful are the motives by which we may be
influenced in pursuing such a course. Think of the peril
of souls, allm-ed by the deceitfulness of sin to their own
destruction, and seek to save them from death. Think
of your obligations to the grace of God which has de-
livered you from the power of darkness, and translated
you into the kingdom of His dear Son. Think of the
glory which will redound to the Lord Jesus Christ, from
the successful results of his people's labors. Finally,
6
82
think of the prospects that are before you
The time of our pilgrimage is short. Soon, if we are
the servants of the Saviour, shall we enter into a pure
and perfect state. There, jars, differences and conflicts,
will be unknown. There the Church will be com2)lete in
holiness and bliss, and the fellowship of the saints will be
purified, and perpetuated. Having this hope, let us labour
diligently and perseveringly in the cause of truth.
Labour in this cause is not lost. It is an honor to take
any part, however humble, in building the Temple of
the Lord. It is a high privilege to work in the heavenly
field, though it be only to plough up the fallow ground,
or sow the seed of the kingdom. The time is coming,
when he that soweth and he that reapeth will rejoice
together."
This was the manner of his teaching in Engiand.
And surely, no one who knows the manner of his
life in this country, will venture to affirm that his
practice did not correspond thereto. By precept
and example he taught men to live worthy their
calling.
CHAPTER YII.
REMOVAL TO CANADA.
1844.
" England, with all thy faults, T love thee still—
My country!" — Coivper.
It is interesting to trace events in the history of
an individual or a nation. It is more instructive
and satisfying when those events can be linked
together, as cause and effect, and then viewed as
constituting only parts of some comprehensive
scheme, by which the divine purpose is being ac-
complished. Many a life would furnish materials
for this kind of exercise, if we had the time and
inclination to ferret them out and put them to-
gether. We have given a brief sketch of the life
of Mr. Cramp in England. Now he is about to go
forth to new scenes and untried duties. The causes
of the removal we will find have been at work on
both continents.
The statements made in the preceding chapter,
touching the last two years in England, the pas-
torate at Hastings, are exceedingly valuable in this
connection. That is, they show the mental char-
84
acteristics of him whose life we are considering,
and the channel in which his thoughts were run-
ning. They come from personal recollections, and
from one intimately acquainted with Dr. Cramp,
long before his name even was known in any of
these Maritime Provinces of the Dominion of
Canada. They show that there was deeply im-
bedded in his nature, the idea of equal rights and
privileges for all Christian denominations ; and
that he was able and willing to defend the rights
of those not enjoying them. In fact, he could not
help himself, for he was impelled by a righteous
indignation to attack, and so far as possible destroy,
all monopolies and chartered rights, which stood
in the way of general progress. Liberty of speech
for every man, a free press for every nation, a good
school for every village, an open Bible for every
family, and religious worship untrammeled by the
law, for every church, or any body of people, few
or many, regarding themselves as a church ; these
were principles as dear to him as the right of
choosing a profession or owning personal property.
And wherever legislation seemed to give one
man or one party an advantage over another in
any of these respects, his indignation was stirred.
The kind of man needed in a new country, where
things are maturing.
The remarks quoted above also show in what
estimation he was held by the brethren among
whom his youthful days and early manhood had
been spent. He was sent as a delegate from the
Association of East Kent to the West Kent and
85
Sussex Association. Representative men, who
understood and could make known the views of
their brethren on important matters, were always
chosen for such offices. Dr. Cramp then must have
been reg-arded as a representative man, and trust-
worthy on points of doctrine and policy. The kind
of man the churches here would be sure to wel-
come.
We may also gather what were his views of the
Grospel ministry To whatever extent "unlearned
and ignorant" men might have been instrumental
of good in apostolic times (and no man had a
deeper reverence for them than Dr. Cramp); to
whatever extent the same class may have accom-
plished good since the days of primitive piety, he
plainly saw that the time had gone by for piety,
without learning, to hope to accomplish the grand
results aimed at by the setting up of the kingdom
of Christ in the world. He saw this and was
working in the line of his convictions. And so,
long before he had even dreamed of being person-
ally connected with colleges or theological schools,
he was endeavouring to mature methods for giv-
ing the rising ministry advantages their fathers
had not enjoyed. He knew that agnosticism, in-
fidelity, and " science falsely so-called," were all
arranging their forces against the truth, and that
only men of the broadest culture and deepest re-
search would be able to cope with these forces. He
was thinking of England's dangers. We can hardly
doubt now, that the Great Head of the Church,
with broader view and more comprehensive plans,
86
was providing an Angus, a Spurgeon, a Brown, a
Stanford, a Clifford, Maclaren, Landels, Chown,
and many more of like spirit, for England, but a
Cramp for this country, one of England's loyal
colonies, whose future may do more for the king-
dom of Christ, than the past even dreamed of.
The plan interpreted in the light of subsequent
events, was that Dr. Cramp should cross the Atlan-
tic, and spend the last 37 years of his life on this
side. The circumstances which led to his coming,
may be found in a brief sketch of the Montreal
Baptist College. In England, the man was being
prepared for the work. In Canada, developments
were going on, and desires deepening which would
soon make work for the man.
Many of the colonists, in what is now known
as Ontario and Quebec, had come from England
and Scotland. They had brought with them much
of the good and much of the evil of their native
land. Among the evils was that of Episcopacy,
with all its implied Church and State connection.
The successive governors sent out, after England's
supremacy in Canada was acknowledged, were
men believing in " the church," and all the advan-
tages that could be secured for her. All legisla-
tion, therefore, was in her favor. Extensive tracts
of land were reserved for educational purposes and
glebe lots. Political influence was almost entirely
in the hands of the members of "the church." The
interpretation of the law, therefore, was that all
this property must be managed by the church in
fostering education and religion, in this new and
undeveloped country. It is easy to see how all
this would work. Education of any higher order
than that of the common village school, poor
enough in those days, was for those who favored
the existing state of things.
The Baptists of Canada, few in numbers, and
very limited at that time in worldly resources, did
not so favor it, and believed that their young men,
including those looking toward the ministry, must
either go without education, or receive it under
conditions which they did not approve. There
were, however, among them, men of intelligence
and energy. They enquired anxiously in what
direction deliverance lay. The young men, espe-
cially the future preachers of the Gospel, must
have the means of education. They could get it
by going abroad, for there were excellent schools
and colleges open to all, in the New England
States. But, going abroad for education, frequently
meant laboring abroad after the education was
secured. So the^e men determined to have a school
at home. They were willing to give, but they
could not give enough. The matter was discussed
and agitated until its importance became over-
whelming. A society had been formed, called
" The Canada Baptist Missionary Society." This
society found the double duty resting upon them,
viz., the raising funds to send out missionaries,
and the equally important work of finding mis-
sionaries competent to be sent. Many of the active
workers of those days, especially in the neighbor-
hood of Montreal, were English and Scotch. Their
thoughts naturally turned towards their native
land.
The Rev. John G-ilmour, who had been pastor of
a Baptist church in Montreal, was sent home in
1836, to England, to raise funds for the training of
a native ministry for Canada, and for carrying on
home mission work in the Province, now Ontario
and Quebec. His efforts were somewhat success-
ful. A society called the " Colonial Society '" in
England, organized some time before this, sympa-
thized with the work, and promised aid. These
two societies, — one at home and the other in
Montreal, commenced the work. The society at
home engaging, at the outset, to pay the salary of a
principal for the proposed college. Dr. Benjamin
Davies was selected as the first principal, a build-
ing was bought near Montreal, and ox^erations
were commenced, Sept. 24, 1886. G-reat hopes
were entertained of the good results to come from
this endeavour. The men managing it were unsel-
fish, public-spirited, large-hearted and generous.
The principal was all that could be desired.
Many obstacles, however, presented themselves.
The young men, looking toward the ministry, had
not all caught the spirit of progress. Railroads
were not in operation, and the school was 400
miles east of the principal churches belonging to
the Baptists. But, worse than all this, the Baptists
in the East, and those in the West, were not a
united body, — the one body sympathised more
with the English, the other with American views
in many matters. They were agreed on all the
89
grand essentials, but they differed on some minor
points. And when it could be shown that the
difference was not so great as was suspected, then
they, some of them at least, chose to suspect that
there were other differences hidden somewhere,
and that united action in education even would
imperil Baptist principles. They were all good
men and true, only perhaps a little more zealous
in maintaining the faith once delivered to the saints,
than in adopting wise measures towards making
that faith effectual in the saving of the lost. In
many of the minor matters of life it would seem
to be just as well to let the chameleon remain green
or blue as each has decided, lest by the time the
dispute is ended, by victory to him who can strike
the hardest blows, both may be found wrong, the
animal having meanwhile assumed still another
colour.
For some five or six years, the college went on
doing excellent work, but the attendance was not
large, and the opposition, arising out of the differ-
ences referred to, did not abate.
In the summer of 1843, Dr. Davies resigned his
position, and accepted the presidency of Stepney
College, now presided over by Rev. Joseph Angus.
For the following year, the Rev. Mr. Fyfe, after-
wards Dr. Fyfe, so well known as the founder,
and for many years the successful principal of
Woodstock Literary Institute, presided over the
Montreal College. During this year, a correspon-
dence was opened up between the two societies,
the English and Canadian, as to securing a perma-
90
nent successor to Dr. Davies. The result was, the
position was offered by the Colonial Society in
London to the Rev. J. M. Cramp. After much
consultation and prayer, he accepted the offer, re-
signed the charge of the church at Hastings, and
made arrangements for the journey to Montreal
with his family, on the 2nd April, 1844.
The voyage was long and perilous as compared
with a similar journey in these days. Schooners
of moderate size and uncertain speed carried
freight and passengers from the Old to the Nev/
world then. Counting the parents and the children,
there was a family group of nine. It required no
little courage and trust, to leave the scenes of early
life, and all the associations of an English home,
to test the perils of the deep, and all the uncer-
tainties that lay beyond it. But many Christian
friends had committed them in earnest prayers to
the care of Him who " measures the waters in the
hollow of His hand." And the father of the family
fully believed that he was moving in obedience to
the divine command. This fact appears in the
records of his own hand.
Under ordinary circumstances, it would be
enough to say of the voyage, the " Prince George"
set sail from London on the 2nd of April, and
reached Montreal the 29th May. But Dr. Cramp
was exceedingly observant of every incident, and
made a note of all.
A few extracts from the "Journal" may be
given as specimens of the whole : —
"April 2, 1884, 1 P. M.— Joined the ship (the Prince
91
George) at Gravesend, with Mrs. C. and all the famil)^.
Opened boxes and prepared the sleeping berths. Mrs. J.
Burls MissM. A. Burls and Mr. Selden, accompanied us.
Quarter to 4, left for London, to attend the farewell ser-
vice at Maze Pond in the evening. The family remained
on board." p ^i, j- ^,.
We regret that we have no records ot that sei-
vice.
" April 3.-Half-past 12, joined our ship, then about
seven miles below Gravesend. Brother Groser, Mr. C.
Burls and Mr. Selden accompanied me. Quarter to 6
passed the Nore Light ; 10 minutes past 4, anchored ott
Whitstable and in sight of Margate.
u I^ B-My old friend, Eobert Foster, of Tottenham,
was in the Gravesend Packet with me this morning. At
parting he said to me, 'There are two things which 1
commend to thy special notice.-popular education and
religious liberty.' -jaw
- April 4.-Quarter to 8, weighed anchor; wind S.W.
Quarter-past 10, anchored in a dead calm; cleared the
cabin of superfluous boxes, and set things to rights
Half-past 12, weighed anchor; wind N.B., very hght^
Quarter-past 2, passed the Eeeulvers; came in s,ght of
St. Peter's Church; gazed at it long, and thought ol
home, parents and friends, not without sadness, nor with
drv eyes. Quarter-past 3, abreast of Margate. Quarter-
past 7, off Broadstairs; Messrs. Hodgman (father and
son) E M. Cock and J. Jarman, with Misses S.Dawson
Johnson and Summers, came off in a boat to see us, and
staid a short time. It was a kind attention, and aliected
me much. n i • +i,^
"April 5.-Wind S. W. At anchor all day m the
Downs. Arranged my books for use, and commenced
the studies which I mean to pursue during the voyage.
And so the journal goes on with most minute
92
details all through the journey, perfectly wonder-
ful to those accustomed to allow all small matters
to slip by unnoticed.
" April 7. — The breeze became stronger as the night
advanced, and continued till morning. We had but little
sleep. Mrs. C, was very ill. Found when I rose in the
morning that we had passed Beachy Head, Brighton,
Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight.
" There was a heavy sea. Only Willy and myself at
the breakfast table. The others were in bed
Though not actually sick, I was too unwell to do any-
thing, and could not venture upon a public service. I
gave a few tracts to the sailors. It was a melancholy,
useless day. Yet it was pleasant to praj" for others who
were better employed, and to think at intervals on G-od's
word.
" April 9. — A beautiful calm. The weather warm, the
sky clear. The aquatic scenery truly enchanting. Onty
we are not getting on,
" The land scarcely visible in the distance, and in the
course of the day, ceased to be seen. The sunset this
evening was most beautiful. Not a cloud was to be seen.
We beheld the sun sinking, and watched its descent, till
it seemed to meet and combine with the wave and finally
disappeared from view. It will re-appear to-morrow,
and the Christian will have a bright rising again,
"April 10. — Avery fine day; wind S.S.W,, a gentle,
pleasant breeze. We saw the Light-houses at the Lizard
Point, and in the afternoon, passed the Land's End, and
lost sight of England. I did not realize the emotions
which Brother Harris, of Ceylon, predicted I should ex-
perience. They were not heart-breaking emotions. I
felt as Mr. Hodgson told me, that I was not like Abram
going out 'not knowing whither.' Neither is mine a
93
banishment. I am going in obedience to the call of God,
and in the hope of being nseful. This sustains me. In
addition to this I am not constituted as some are, whose
attachment to place is as great as to persons.
" Nevertheless, I could not helj) turning towards the
coast as I walked the deck to get another view. Nor was
I wholly destitute of feeling. I am leaving my father-
land. I may never see it again, never see again those
whom I love. Can I think of this and not feel ? God
grant that this removal may tend to His gloiy, and the
good of many souls. Should not that satisfy me ? Lat.
49-49 ; long. 4-49.
"April 13. — . . . A homeward bound vessel passed
us. She hoisted signals, showing her number to be
1*723, and her name the ' Fox Hound.' We then did the
same. Our number being 45G3.
" The view from the deck is often truly sublime. We
seem literally to mount up to the heavens and then ' to
go down to the depths ' and as literally we ' reel to and
fro, and stagger like a drunken man.'
" I have sometimes thought that the engravings of
ships in a gale must be on an exaggerated scale, but now
I can believe in all that the painter has endeavoured to
depict. Lat. 49.35; long. 8.12.
" April 15. — The wind increased last night, and the
pitching and rolling were terrific. We lay uneasily,
sleeping but little till about half-past 3, when it seemed
to blow a gale. There was a loud knock at the door, and
the steward and carpenter entered to fasten up the dead
lights which had been left half closed a few days ago to
let in the air. It was too late, however, for before they
could accomplish their task, a wave broke in and sadly
drenched us. It was then blowing a gale, and the cai--
penter said that the sea was one sheet of slimy foam.
"As the morning dawned, the gale abated, leaving a
94
tremendous swell. The ship heaved and rolled so much
that I left my berth soon after 6, and went on deck,
where the scenery was magnificent beyond description.
The huge waves approached us, rising far higher than
the vessel and threatening to engulph us all, and yet she
bounded over them, or sinking into the hollow, seemed to
give them an embrace as they glided away.
" The waves of the Atlantic differ much from those on
the coast. They are rather heaps than waves, and though
they flow in the direction of the wind, do not form con-
tinuous series, but break into lumps and commingle on
all sides in inextricable confusion. Lat. 51.14; long.
11.52.
" April 19. — The wind still contrary, and the weather
dull and cold. Not being very well, my rest was dis-
turbed. "When I awoke in the morning, T had been
dreaming that my father was dead. I thought that affairs
had gone on uncomfortably since I left him. Something
had hurt his mind very much, and it affected him so
powerfully that he died the following Friday. I am not
inclined to superstition, and yet could not help feeling-
depressed and sorrowful, fearing that some such result
would be one day experienced.
"April 22. — About half-past 3 this morning the wind
changed to north, and carried us on in our right course
at a rapid rate. In the middle of the day, it slackened,
returning partially to the west, in the evening. A fine
day, though rather cold.
"In the forenoon, we had service in the cabin. I read
Ps. xcv. and xcvi. Prayed and read Luke xviii. ; ex-
pounded verses 9-14. The captain and some of the crew
attended. The whole family were at dinner and tea,
being the first time we have all so met for a fortnight.
" April 29. — Saturday night, the 2'7th, was fearful.
There was a strong wind and a heavy sea all night. Early
95
in the morning, the wind suddenly changed to the north
and blew with hurricane-like fury for some hours It
was impossible to bear up against it. All that we could
do was to bear up against the wind which carried us
along at a rapid rate. At length, by dint of great effort,
the ship was hove to under a single sail, and so continued
till the evening. The sea was mountainous all day, terri-
fically mountainous. The view from the deck was awfully
grand, but the motion of the ship was uncomfortable in
the extreme. She rolled from side to side continually, so
that it was scarcely possible to keep in one position for
a minute. The scenes at our meals were most amusing.
No vessel with liquid in it could remain on the table.
We were obliged to hold our soup-plates in our hands and
balance them every second, S^joons, knives, forks, plates,
and even the joints in the dishes seemed endued with life.
It was pei-petual motion realized. Lat. 48.9 ; long. 35.
" May 16. — We had an excellent run in the night. At
eight o'clock this morning the bold coast of Cape Breton
was in sight. The morning was fine and warmer than
usual. The sea was calm, and our spirits buoyant under
these new circumstances, not having seen land for many
days. We returned to the cabin for family prayer, thank-
ful for the mercy which had been shown us in conduct-
ing us thus far in safety. At half-past 2 this afternoon we
passed the island of St. Paul, and entered the Gulf of St,
Lawrence. That island is about 15 miles long, is unin-
habited, save by the inmates of two light-houses. It is a
barren rock, strewed with dead men's bones, the ship
wrecks in former years having been very numerous and
very destructive to life.
" May 20. — When I went on deck yesterday moi-uing
before breakfast, the hills of Canada (the Gaspd district)
were just visible, about 50 miles distant. In the forenoon
we had service; text, Ps. ciii. 1-2. The Island of Anti-
96
oosti came in sight about noon. In the evening, the wind
changed from S. to S.W., and compelled us to sail directly
towards that island which we wished particularly to
avoid, as it is a very dangerous coast.
" May 23. — Just as we were going to bed last night,
we were summoned on deck by the captain to see the
Aurora Borealis. It was a beautiful sight. A luminous
arch stretched across the sky ; its centre being at an
elevation of about 45 degrees. It appeared like a bright
cloud, as if it were illuminated by a concealed sun. Per-
pendicular rays darted up and down continually. At the
east end it resembled a beautiful drapery, folding and
unfolding every moment. At the same time the moon
shone brightly on the water, adding greatly to the inter-
est of the scene.
" May 25. — G-reat was my astonishment to learn
when I arose this morning that we Avere within 60 miles
of Quebec. Our progress during the night had been
very rapid, and we were then scudding away before a
strong breeze, with the advantage of a flood tide. As the
river narrowed, it became more beautiful and interesting.
Houses were thickly scattered on both sides of the
stream, and many pretty villages were passed, each pos-
sessing its church, the roof of which was usually covered
with tin. The foliage of the trees was exquisitely beauti-
ful, much resembling the autumnal tints of our own
country.
" At half-past 2, we reached Quebec, and dropped
anchor amongst a crowd of vessels, having sailed from
Bic, the pilot station, 180 miles from Quebec, in 21
hours, the finest run we have had since we left England.
The view of Quebec from the river is very imposing, but
it is impossible to form any idea of the plan of the town.
All appears a confused mass of buildings. Churches
abound, whose tin-covered tops glitter like polished
silver.
91
" May 27.— Left Quebec half-past 7. A beautifully fine
day. Towed up the river by a steamer. A magnificent
river. It varies much. Sometimes there is a slope down
to the water's edge. On the opposite side, a precipitous
bank forty to fifty feet high, covered with woody foliage,
in every tint of variegated green. A little further on, the
bank becomes a cliff", and small streams are falling down
its sides in beautiful cascades. Here the river narrows
and little is seen on either hand but low forest trees. Then
it expands, till it becomes almost a lake. Farm houses,
cottages and small villages diversify the scene. Every
village has its church ; and the churches being univer-
sally adorned with light and elegant spires, are very in-
teresting featiu-es of the landscape.
" May 29. — Soon after 7 this morning the mountain
behind Montreal became visible. At a quarter-past 10
we reached the " Eapids." At half-past 12 we arrived in
safety. The committee of the college were waiting to
receive us, and conducted us to the house of Joseph
Wenham, Esq., where we are to be entertained till we
can get a house.
" Thanks be to God. Distance sailed : London to
Beachy Head, 150 miles ; Beachy Head to the Banks,
2,743; Banks to Cape Gasp^, 825; Gaspe to Bic, 312 ;
Bic to Quebec, 180. Total, 4,390. The actual distance
is about 3,000. Our zig-zag tacking making the diff-
erence."
CHAPTER VIII.
LIFE IN MONTREAL.
1844-1851.
" We are not to choose for ourselves what parts to act on the
stage of life, but to act those well which are allotted and ap-
pointed for us."
Tucker.
We have given somewhat extended extracts from
the " Journal," (extended and yet very few as com-
pared with the whole), partly, because they con-
tain interesting descriptions of incidents and
scenery, but much more, because they wonderfully
unfold the character of the man who kept the
Journal. They let out the secret of Dr. Cramp's
power to do two or three men's work. The activity
of his mind was such that he could not rest. The
persistent energy of his nature was such that he
must be busily engaged in work. He evidently
gave just as much thought and attention to that
whole voyage, the varying winds, the distances
made each day, and all the other details, as the
captain of the ship himself. How far the course
of study planned for the journey was also pursued
99
we know uot. But, knowing his avidity in devour-
ing books, we doubt not that extensive readino-
was carried on meanwhile.
Now he assumed the presidency of the Montreal
College. It was weak and struggling. But there
were noble helpers, men willing to give money,
sympathy, time and thought. It was hoped and
expected that all unreasonable opposition would
soon be withdrawn, and that the whole body
would rally around this institution. With Dr.
Cramp at the head, and Mr. Bos worth, who had
been associated with Dr. Davies in the work, as an
assistant, it was thought that the matter w^as hope-
ful. More students began to gather around the
institution. The work for which the president
had been for years unconsciously preparing him-
self had fallen now into his hands. The commit-
tee of the " Canada Baptist Missionary Society "
resolved to erect a building adapted to the wants
of the institution. Montreal was selected as the
place. Partly because they had already secured a
considerable tract of land there, and partly because
the men competent to aid in this important enter-
prise, were living in and near that city. We quote
from an article of the late Dr. Fyfe : —
" The Montreal Committee of the ' Canada Baptist Mis-
sionary Society,' erected a fine cut-stone building upon a
beautiful site which they had reserved from the land they
had bought. It was a beacon which could be seen from a
great distance, and brilliantly proclaimed the enterprise
of the Baptists. For some time, the enterprise seemed to
feel the impulse of this new departure. The attendance
100
of students was considerably increased, and a number of
those who had not the ministry in view were received
into the school."
The internal working of the Institution was at
this time eminently satisfactory. In fact it had
been so from the first. There were drawbacks,
however. Education throughout the country had
been much neglected, and, as a result, many of
those looking toward the ministry, were very de-
ficient in the simplest rudiments of learning, Some,
therefore, came to the Montreal college, whose
proper place would have been in an elementary
school. The diversified attainments made a proper
classification impossible. And, young men were,
therefore, compelled by the circumstances of the
case, to join classes too far advanced for them. In
such cases results would not always appear in pro-
portion to the work done. And yet the teachers
worked on and did the best they could, and the
friends were encouraged, and convinced that a
valuable impetus was being given to education
generally, and to all the interests of the denomin-
ation. Young men were being taught the value
of learning, and put upon the road to secure it.
They were being fitted to become more instructive
and useful preachers. Some of them had superior
abilities, and having enjoyed the advantages of
early training, were prepared to receive the full
benefit of the instruction given at Montreal.
We quote again from Dr. Fyfe, who knew the
whole history of the institution : —
" Some excellent men were indeed trained there, the
101
benefit of whose labors the whole denomination feels to
this day. I need only name Dr. Davidson, W. K. Ander-
son, J. Dempsey, A. Slaght, and others, to suggest to my
readers some of the services rendered by that college to
the Baptists of Canada, No intelligent Baptist can look
back forty years and ignore the great impulse imjDarted to
the Baptist cause by the Montreal society. Of the men
educated at this Montreal college, we have one in Eng-
land and six in Canada, still engaged in preaching the
Gospel. There are besides, seven in Canada, who are
not engaged in the ministry. I can recall four others
who ai-e in the United States, and several who have
finished their course and gone home. Besides thei-e were
a number of ministers, who were induced to come to
Canada by the Montreal society, who rendered good ser-
vice to the cause of the Master. From my heart I grate-
fully thank God for the good work done by the Montreal
society."
And yet, after a few years of heroic struggle, the
work was abandoned. Then, why did the college
fail ? Not through any defect or deficiency of the
teachers. Not through any failure of the commit-
tee who had it in charge. For, Dr. Fyfe says of
them :
" Never did a body of men labor more faithfully, or
struggle harder to succeed. I know that we have no
men now among the Baptists — and we never had any —
who would work harder, or give as liberally as the Mon-
treal committee did, according to their means, to make
the school successful. But they were striving to make
water run up hill."
In what respect ? First, the college was too far
from the centre of the Baptist population ; secondly,
an unjust and foolish prejudice, or perhaps fear,
102
prevailed. I refer to the appieliension that the
influence of the college would unsettle the Deno-
mination in the Communion question ; thirdly,
the Baptists of Canada were not, in those days, as a
body, sufficiently enlightened to appreciate and
sustain such an institution as was needed ;
fourthly, there was not the spirit of enlightened
liberality which has been awakened since, nor
was there the amount of wealth which now pre-
vails ; fifthly, the society at home, which had been
assisting, withdrew their aid. It had been expected
that they would furnish at the least |10,000 to-
wards the building fund. Instead of this they
contributed nothing. The plan of the home so-
ciety was changed, confining its efforts to mission
work. A heavy debt rested upon the Montreal
college. There was a general depression in busi-
ness in Canada, as well as in other places, from
1846 to 1850. The burden bearers were reduced
in circumstances, and the society, through sheer
necessity, failed to meet their liability, and the
Montreal college, in the beginning of its useful-
ness, ceased to be. The building was sold during
the business depression at a great sacrifice, to pay
the debts, and the Canada Baptist Missionary So-
ciety was disbanded.
A bitter ending to a noble, patriotic, unselfish
struggle of good men to do good. What did it all
mean ? It may have meant many things not yet
unfolded. But, among the things which the over-
turnins: of events have disclosed are these : It
meant that Dr. Cramp should come to Nova Scotia
103
and help the Baptists there to fight through sim-
ilar struggles, with all the additional experience
gained at Montreal. That through his aid, many
men would be raised up for important work for
God in these and foreign lands. That of these
men so raised up, a number of them should go
back to Upper Canada, and go on with the same
work.
That a Fyfe, a McMaster, a Castle, and many
others, should, in due time appear, and under more
favorable auspices, and with all the impulse given
to the cause, even by the college, which came to
an untimely end, in the year 1849, carry on the
work of developing intellect and preparing work-
ers for the Lord.
" God moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform."
But what it all meant, and orher mysterious
things, we shall know better when we know as
we are known.
Dr. Cramp's labors in Montreal continued from
1844 till 1851. They were not years thrown away.
He was, during a portion of this time, the editor
of the Register, the Colonial Protestant, and then of
the Pilot, and wrote many valuable articles for the
papers of the time, both in England, Canada and
Nova Scotia. He wielded a ready pen, and it was
always at work, when the times seemed to demand
his efforts.
Many changes have taken place in the people,
the institutions and the country since Dr. Cramp
reached Montreal in May, 1844. He and his family
104
were kindly eutertained for some weeks in the
house of Jos. "Wenham, Esq., a leading banker of
the city. The banks continue their business ; but
the kind-hearted Wenham, and many others then
actively engaged in building up the city and
country, are not, for Grod has taken them. Montreal
was then a city of 45,000. It now contains about
200,000.
The voyage across the Atlantic was a long and
tempestuous one, occupying about seven weeks in
"The Prince George," a barque of 400 tons, the
usual size of ships then carrying freight and pas-
sengers from England to Montreal. Now steamers
of from 2,000 to 5,000 tons burden, make the pas-
sage in 9 or 10 days. There are no less than ten
different lines of ocean steamers. He who came
as one of the passengers in the " Prince Greorge,"
now the late lamented Thos. Cramp, Esq., Dr.
Cramp's oldest son, was largely instrumental in
organizing the company which owns and controls
one of them (The Dominion Line).
There was one Baptist church in Montreal, of a
little over one hundred members, worshipping in
St. Helen Street, in a building that had cost about
$6,000; the pastor, Eev. J. Grirdwood. Long since,
the pastor and most of those who then composed
the church and congregation, have passed over to
the other side. And yet the church has lived, and
become two bands. There are now two churches,
with two handsome buildings, in prominent posi-
tions in the city, erected at a cost of about $50,000
each, and a membership of over 600. There is also
105
in the city a French Protestant Baptist Church,
Sunday schools and missionary societies, and other
agencies of good, hardly thought of then, are now
in active operation.
Many churches in the country of 30, 50 or *75
members in 1844, have now hundreds on the roll
list. For instance : —
Chatham, J. King, pastor, membership, 1845 92
91
11
34
30
28
33
42
58
Osgoode, J. M. Phail,
Stanstead, E. Mitchel,
Leeds, P. Schofield,
Brockville, R. Boyd,
Brighton, J. Holman, '
1. Hamilton. H. Brown.
2. " A.Booker, '
St. Catherines, W.Hewson
The largest membership reported in those times
was that of Walsingham, 193 ; Brantford, 88 ; Paris,
10 ; Newmarket, 8. The whole membership of the
province (now two provinces) Ontario and Quebec,
could not have been much over 8,000 or 10,000.
Now, it is well up towards 30,000.
"With these facts before us, we can hardly won-
der that the Montreal Baptist College failed. The
wonder rather is at the courage that gave it exist-
ence, and the energy that kept it alive, till it had
convinced the Denomination " that the soul to be
without knowledge, is not good."
Among the men who welcomed Dr. Cramp and
family to their new" home and sympathized with
him in his work, mav be mentioned Jos. Wenham,
106
James Milne, James Thomson, T. M. Thomson, E.
Muir, W. Muir, Eev. 11. A. Fyfe, Eev. J. Grilmour,
Rev. Dr. Davies, Rev. Mr. McPhail. Only one of
these faithful friends now survive. The others
have passed away.
In answer to enquiries as to the habit of life of
Dr. Cramp in Montreal, one of the family writes : —
" When my father resided in Montreal, his duties as
president of the college, gave him freedom from regular
Sabbath labour. Yet, he preached almost constantly.
He was often asked to occujjy the pulpits of various
churches. This he was always willing to do ; and at one
time, during an interim of regular pastors, he frequently
supplied the Presbyterian Church of St. Gabriel Street.
He was also popular as a lecturer, and his sermons on
special occasions were always able productions, and
heard with great interest.
" More energetic than most men, and ever ready to
labor for the cause to which his life was devoted, he ren-
dered valuable service to the Canada Baptist Missionary
Society, by visiting remote country churches, attending
ordination services, etc. While his etforts for the Grande
Ligne Mission were untiring, and resulted in effecting a
union between that mission and the Baptist Denomina-
tion in Canada.
" Some of the men of like spirit with himself, and with
whom he labored in various Christian enterprises were —
Rev. H. Wilkes, D.D., Eev. W. Taylor, D.D., Eev. Caleb
Strong, and several ministers of the Methodist Church.
With these and others he worked heartily in the Evan-
gelical Alliance, Bible, tract, Sunday school, and tem-
perance societies, often speaking at their anniversaries.
"He also edited the Montreal Register, a Baptist weekly
paper, and, with the Eev, W. Taylor, the Colonial Protest-
lOY
ant, and after the college was given up, he edited with
Mi\ Bristo, the Pilot, a tri-vveekly paper, established by
Mr., afterwards Sir Francis Hincks, now deceased.
" During Dr. Cramp's residence in Montreal, there
were commotions and upheavals of various kinds ; all of
which helped to make his anxieties greater and his work
more difficult.
" Montreal, instead of Kingston, had been made the
Seat of Government. The Governor-General was Sir
Charles Metcalf, a man of much ability and jjower. But,
unfortunate differences arose between him and his res-
ponsible advisers. Some of these resigned, and the
country was appealed to. The Governor was sustained
with a small majority, and much trouble followed.
" Political excitement ran high. Tory was opposed to
Liberal, and Loyalists were pitted against i-ebels. A ter-
rible collapse in business matters occurred about the
same time ; the Montreal merchants alone losing some
$4,000,000. Then followed the outburst against the new
Government, after the appointment of Lord Elgin as
Governor-General, when the mob assailed the Governoi*
with stones and rotten eggs. In the words of another :
'The citizens were thrown into a ferment, a crowd
assembled on the Champ de Mars. Violent speeches
were made. The cry was raised, "To the Parliament
House." The excited mob, led by men with flaming
torches, went to the Parliament House, where the
Assembly was in session. Suddenly, a shower of stones
shattered the windows, and the rioters rushed in to the
chamber. The members fled, and the work of destruc-
tion went on. The building was set on fire, and totally
destroyed, with its valuable library and records. . . .'
The city was in the hands of the rioters for foui- or five
days. These were sad times for the city. For, besides
the reproach brought upon the fair fame of the country
108
by this lawless vandalism, it caused Montreal to lose the
Seat of Government.'
" The burning questions in those times were ' Eespon-
sible Government,' 'the Clergy Reserves,' ' School Lands,'
' the right of the Cabinet to be consulted in the appoint-
ment of all Government officers,' &c., &c.
" The leaders in the discussion, and final settlement of
these questions, were such men as Baldwin, Lafontaine,
Hincks, Viger, Aylwin, Cameron, Sir Allan McNab, John
A. McDonald, George E, Cartier, A.T. Gait, L. H. Holton,
and George Brown."
With such men as these grappling with ques-
tions of vital interest to the entire Province, ques-
tions touching not only its civil interests, but its
social, educational, and religious prosperity, no one
who knew Dr. Cramp could suppose that he was
an idle spectator in it all. Not a man among them
all gave more anxious enquiry into the principles
of righteous government than he.
"We quote from one well acquainted with Dr.
Cramp at the time referred to, and in fact till the
end of his life.
" The Pilot was the chamj)ion of the Reform party on
these and kindred questions ; and its support was effi-
cient and invaluable. It had been edited by Mr. Hincks
(the late Sir Francis Hincks), a bold and able writer.
In coming under Dr. Cramp's editorial charge, the Pilot
certainly did not lose in interest or influence. His pro-
fession as a Christian minister had never in the least
interfered with the keen interest he always took in poli-
tics ; and in the government of the country in which his
lot was cast. In England, as a Baptist and a Dissenter,
he was naturally on the Reform side. Indeed, consider-
109
ing the host of legal restrictions and disabilities, which,
at the time of his early manhood, were imposed by law
on all outside the State Chm-ch, it would have been sur-
prising indeed, if he had taken any other position. In
Canada, the circumstances were somewhat different.
Still, there was a Tory party and a Eeform party— and
the same difference in principle lay between the two
parties. The controversies of those days have long been
at an end ; and it would not be interesting to submit any
details as to this period of Dr. Cramp's life. He gave to
the work which he then undertook, the energy and labor
which he conscientiously bestowed on all his under-
takings ; and, looking back, we now see that the side on
which he fought has prevailed ; and that all the diiferent
questions so hotly contested at the time, have been long
ago settled in accordance with the principles supported
by Dr. Cramp in the Pilot.''
Dr. Cramp's life then in Montreal was not that
of a recluse, or simply the teacher of a few young
men in the college. He had to do with all the in-
terests of the Denomination and of the Province.
He grappled with all the questions which per-
tained to the well-being of humanity, and did
much towards effecting reforms which are now
enjoyed.
Some important changes took place in his family
relations during his stay there. A son dearly be-
loved was taken from the group in July, 1844,
Two of the daughters were married and settled.
One in Halifax, N. S., the other in Montreal. The
two sons then living had settled down to business
in Montreal, — one as a merchant, the other as a
lawyer. His removal to Nova Scotia never lessened
110
his interest or afFection for the old friends of his
former home. He frequently spoke of them and
looked forward with great delight to anticipated
visits among them. One of the family says : —
" It was a constant source of gratification to him to
pay frequent visits to his children residing in Montreal.
This intercourse was delightful, indeed, and is a precious
remembrance to them now. The long journey, so often
made, was undertaken, in spite of increasing feebleness
in 1878, and was then made for the last time."
From Montreal, Dr. Cramp removed to Nova
Scotia, in 1851, to assume the duties of President
of Acadia College.
CHAPTER IX.
ACADIA COLLEGE.
" That the soul be without knowledge, it is not good."
— Prov. xviv- 2.
Omitting for the moment all reference to Dr.
Cramp's literary works, it may be stated that the
most fruitful portion of his life was spent in con-
nection with Acadia Collet^e, in Wolfville, N. S.
A brief sketch of the history of the educational
institutions at Horton may not be out of place
here.
At a meeting of the Baptist Association held at
"Wolfville, in June, 1828, measures were adopted
for founding a school of a higher class, than the
ordinary public schools of those times. The want
had been long and deeply felt, but no public action
had been taken till the date named. A respectable
education could be secured at the academy and
college in Windsor, N. S., but it was necessary to
subscribe to the 39 articles in order to gain admis-
sion. The academy at Pictou, under the able
management of Dr. MacCulloch, was open to all
classes ; but the Baptist churches were neither
112
numerous nor strong- in the eastern part of Nova
Scotia, and in those days of slow travelling, that
school was of little use to the denomination which
founded Acadia College. As a people then, the
Baptists were without the means of education, be-
yond the mere rudiments of learning, provided in
very poor common schools.
Tbe people, as a body, were satisfied with this
provision. Some of them, in fact, opposed to any-
thing beyond, so far as the Christian ministry was
concerned. They believed in Grod — ordained, not
man-made preachers. There was, however, a large
and rapidly increasing class, who recognized the
loss the denomination was sustaining for the want
of men of trained minds, and fully developed intel-
lects. They came to the front at this first public
movement in behalf of advanced education for
Baptist young men. It would be impossible at
this date, to convey an adequate idea, of the pathos
and power of some of the addresses on that occa-
sion. The fathers in the ministry, as they were
called, spoke from the fulness of their own bitter
experience, when they told what they had suffered,
and how they had been hampered in their great
work, by the want of training in their younger
days. Many long standing prejudices melted
away in the presence of these veterans pleading
for their sons in the faith. And from that day, a
denominational school was assured. Results fol-
lowed at once. Money was raised, an education
society was organized, a property in Wolfville was
purchased, and in the following year, a school was
113
opened under the management of Mr. Asahel
Chapin, afterwards Dr. Chapin, from the United
States. This was the commencement of what is
still known as Horton Collegiate Academy. Rev.
John Pryor, a graduate of King's College in Wind-
sor, was the successor of Mr. Chapin. He, with
various assistants, continued to carry on the school
successfully for about ten years. Pupils came from
all parts of the Maritime Provinces. Their mental
and spiritual interests were well provided for.
Buildings were erected. One for class-rooms, and
another for a boarding-house. The blessing of
heaven seemed to rest upon the endeavour, and
the denomination might, for many years, have
been satisfied with this provision. Some, indeed,
were looking forward to the time, in the near fu-
ture, when academical training would make a
demand for a full college course, but there was no
expectation of immediate action in that direction.
Circumstances, however, sometimes compel or
prompt people to go faster and farther than they
had intended. It was so in this case.
In the year 1817, Lord Dalhousie, Governor of
the Province of Nova Scotia, had appropriated
.£9,750 out of what was called the Castine fund,
toward the establishment ol a provincial univer-
sity at Halifax. A few years after, a building was
erected for that purpose, and funds were contribu-
ted from the provincial chest, to the amount of
iJ10,000. In 1838, an effort was made to com-
mence actual operations. It was hoped and fully
expected by many at that time, that King's College,
8
114
"Windsor, would unite its forces with Dalhousie, at
Halifax, and thus form one strong metropolitan
college. Dr. MacCulloch, however, of Pictou, was
appointed president, and Mr. E. A. Crawley, now
Dr. Crawley, a graduate of King's College, a young"
man of great promise and superior education, was
strongly recommended to the managing board as
a suitable person to fill one of the chairs as a pro-
fessor. His application, however, was rejected.
Not because of any suspected inability on his part,
but because of his denominational views. He was,
at the time, the pastor of a Baptist church in Hali-
fax, and the decision reached by the board of man-
agement of Dalhousie was, that all the professors
must be members of the Presbyterian Church.
This decision, as might have been expected,
awakened very deep feelings in the Baptist deno-
mination in the Maritime Provinces. The exclu-
siveness of King's College could be endured, for
that was avowedly denominational, in its origin,
and largely in its means of support. But Dalhousie
funds were not in any sense derived from the Pres-
byterian body. Shut off, therefore, from all educa-
tional advantages, both in "Windsor and Halifax,
the question was seriously asked, ""What other
course is there open before the Denomination ? "
Many letters appeared in the papers, calling atten-
tion to the recent action. Among these a series of
communications from the able pen of Rev. E. A.
Crawley, in the Nova Scotian, showing that the
duty of the hour was to push on the work com-
menced at Horton, to its legitimate issue. In other
115
words, to found, equip, aud sustain a college,
walled around by no creed, for the benefit and
training of all who might seek instruction therein,
This onward movement commended itself to the
intelligence of the people, and efforts were put
forth at once. The Rev. J. Pryor's place in the
academy was filled by the appointment of another
principal, Mr. E. Blanchard, of Truro. And Dr.
Crawley and Dr. Pryor were appointed to chairs in
the college about to be established. Application
was made to the Legislature of the province for a
charter. This application, though fiercely opposed
by many of the leaders in politics and religion,
was finally secured. Twenty students were, upon
examination, found prepared for the first-class in
the college. On the 21st of January, 1839, the
college was formally opened, each of the newly
appointed professors delivering addresses appro-
priate to the occasion.
The executive committee of the education so-
ciety, who assumed the responsibility of this
undertaking, were as follows : — Rev. J. E. Bill, Dr.
Lewis Johnston, Rev. William Chipman, Simon
Fitch, Esq., Rev. John Pryor, A. M., Rev. Richard
McLearn, Rev. E. A. Crawley, A.M., "William John-
ston and J. W. Nutting. Of these ten men, only
three now survive. The others have gone to their
reward.
That the circumstances recited above did not
originate the idea of Acadia College, but only
hastened its approach, may be gathered from
various sources.
116
In 1836, the managing committee of the educa-
tion society, urged upon the Denomination the
establishment, as early as possible, of a seminary
which shall become so fully possessed of the
highest literary merit as to deserve every immu-
nity that the law can grant to chartered institu-
tions. This evidently referred to financial as well
as other support. The opposition to State aid for
educational purposes, had not been developed as
it appeared later on.
In 1837, the managing committee's report con-
tained the following : —
•' The education of the country is at this moment in a
singular condition. Windsor Academy is only beginning
to revive from a long period of depression ; Pictou Aca-
demy, by the unfortunate dissensions which have long-
agitated it, is said, even by its friends, to be hastening to
decay ; the college at Windsor is acknowledged to be too
sectarian to allow Dissenters, with any confidence, to seek
its advantages for their sons, and still suifers that depres-
sion which its contracted system inevitably involved. All
efforts to open Dalhousie have hitherto failed ; there is,
therefore, at once a loud call and an open field for all
who feel the importance of a liberal education to engage
in the important work of forming and animating an
enlarged system of instruction, such as the country ur-
gently needs, and is sought in vain within its borders."
Attention was also called to the fact, that young
men, of the various religious persuasions, were
continually going out of the provinces to seek that
mental training which should be provided at
home, and that a thoroughly equipped college,
open to all classes, would, therefore, be a boon to
in
the country as well as to the Denominatiou which
might found it. Urged on by these general con-
siderations, and stimulated b}'- the events referred
to, Queen's College, afterwards named " Acadia,"
was started with only two professors, as stated
above, January, 1839. In October following, an
addition was made to the staff, by the appoint-
ment of Mr. Isaac Chipman, A.B., a former stu-
dent of the academy and graduate of "Watervilie
College, Me. He was selected to fill the chair
of natural philosophy and mathematics. In this
choice the managing committee was surely guided
by something more than mere human wisdom ;
For Mr. Chipman was a young man, and as yet
untried. He was very unassuming, and possessed
no external force of character. His retiring and
gentle manner, would seem almost to invite defeat
in any contact with difficulty or danger. But there
was a wonderful fund of talent, energy, and per-
sistency of purpose in the man, which made him
invaluable to the young college through all the
years of its early struggles. It may be truthfully
said, that the one aim of Professor Chipman's life,
from the time of his appointment in 1839, till the
sad day in Acadia's history, when the surging
waters of Mines Basin swept his body from the
overturned boat, was to foster the interests of
higher education, through the means of the insti-
tutions at Horton. His acquaintance with the
branches taught was comprehensive, and yet, sim-
ply as a teacher, in the class-room, perhaps, he
would not hold the first rank. But as a man, and
118
a Christian, as one devoted to what he believed to
be his calling, his rank is among the first.
The college thns established and equipped went
forward in its appointed work. The course of
study embraced fonr years after matriculation.
The first class of graduates was in 1843. Of the
twenty who entered, only four continued to the
end. Very similar has been the history of many
classes since. But, although the work accom-
plished from year to year was acknowledged to
be good, and although considerable enthusiasm
seemed to gather around every anniversary occa-
sion, the one great want was money, sufficient to
make provision for the work.
A small provincial grant was secured. But, even
this became a bone of contention. It was easier to
see the iniquity of State and Church connection,
even in education, than to recognize the duty of
furnishing the needful funds. Infinitely easier for
those not valuing education, or perhaps, even hos-
tile toward it, to see how the denomination would
sacrifice all those great principles for which our
fathers died, by allowing the boys to study Euclid
or Longinus, under a professor whose daily bread
came in part from the filthy lucre of the Provincial
chest, than for the governors of the college to find
the means to make the institution what it ought to
be. So there was struggle, and effort, and appeal.
With commendable liberality, some responded to
the call A building of fair proportions was
erected, which, together with the original building
for the academy, furnished class-rooms and sleep-
119
ing apartments for a considerable number of stu-
dents. And the college came to be regarded as
equal, if not superior, to any other in the pro-
vinces.
Agents had been sent out at different times,
through the provinces, and occasionally to Eng-
land and the United States, for help. Money vras
collected by these means, but never sufficient to
meet the demands. There were frequently large
deficits when the accounts were balanced at the
end of the year. Professors' salaries were small,
and not promptly paid. The Hon. J. W. Johnston,
the able and conscientious leader of one of the
political parties in Nova Scotia, was one of the
warmest friends of the college. On the floors of
the house in council chamber, as well as at the
public gatherings of the Baptist denomination, he
had given most valued aid. But in those days,
politics was everything to a large class of the
people. Every other interest, educational or re-
ligious, was looked at and judged from the stand-
point of Party politics. And the simple fact that
the leader of one Party was also a leader in build-
ing up and sustaining Acadia College, was quite
sufficient to call out the hostility of the other. Put
together the want of educational zeal in these
provinces, the lack of funds, and political animos-
ity, and it is not difficult to see that the friends of
the Horton institutions had no small difiiculty to
cope with.
A remark may be made here, with, perhaps, a
better chance of gaining credence, than if made
120
thirty or forty years ago : Acadia College is not
now, and has never been, partizan in politics.
Among teachers and students, from the first, there
have been varied viev^s, full and free discussion.
The writer has been personally acquainted with all
the professors and teachers, with the exception of
Mr. Chapin and Mr. Blanchard. He studied seven
years at the institutions at Horton, and taught in
the academy twice that time, and has no recollec-
tion of any influence ever being used to give a
bias on any political question, either in the class-
rooms, or elsewhere, by the teachers during all
these years. The avowed object of the existence of
the "Wolfville insitutions, was education, under
the guidance and fostering care of religion, and
neither governors nor teachers have, as yet, turned
to any inferior work.
Difficulties, however, from the first, surrounded
this enterprise. Opposition of the fiercest kind
was manifested. A central university at Halifax
continued to be the fond dream of many of the
leaders in Provincial politics. The poverty of the
college was turned into an argument for its use-
lessness. Again and again its friends feared that
the enterprise would prove a failure in the end.
Had they not been men of faith and prayer, pur-
pose and perseverance, far beyond ordinary men,
that must have been the result.
FOUNDING OF A THEOLOGICAL PROFESSORSHIP.
Among other donations, iJlOO sterling was pro-
mised in England for a limited time, toward found-
121
ing a theological chair. An equal amount was
pledged by the Association in 1845, and in 1846,
Rev. E. A. Crawley, A.M., then made a D.D., by
Brown University, was appointed to fill this chair.
He, however, shortly after resigned his position at
Acadia, and removed to Halifax in 1847. Mr. A. P.
S. Stuart, of Brown University, was appointed
professor of mental and moral philosophy, and re-
signed his position in a couple of years. Things
were looking dark, and many of the friends of
Acadia began to despair of success. We quote
from the " History of Acadia College and Horton
Academy," published in 1881: —
" In the summer of 1850, the outlook was very gloomy.
Prof. Stuart had left at the end of the previous year.
Dr. Pryor was to leave in June. Prof. Chipman had also
tendered his resignation, the Denomination was divided
upon the question of Government aid, and a debt of
£3,000, about $15,000, rested upon the governors. With-
out professors, and without resources, it seemed as though
the end must soon come. It is saying much for the in-
telligence, piety and zealous courage of the Baptists of
the Maritime Provinces, that in the face of such ap-
parently insurmountable obstacles they did not flinch, but
unhesitatingly decreed that Acadia College should live."
In July of 1850, Dr. Pryor removed to the United
States. Prof Chipman had been induced to with-
draw his resignation, and remained at his post,
and he, with the aid of teachers in the academy
and advanced students, carried on the work of the
College for the balance of the year.
Thus we have the condition of things : Only one
122
professor in Acadia College, and he the junior one,
A heavy debt resting upon the institution, and no
income to meet it. Enemies railing, old friends
disheartened, the students, some of them packing
their trunks for home, or for some institution in
more hopeful condition. Under these circumstances
it was that the managers were looking for deliver-
ance, and finally decided to extend an invitation
to the Eev. Dr. Cramp, of Montreal, to accept the
presidency of Acadia College.
We quote from "The Yaughan Prize Essay,"
written by Alfred Coldwell, A.M., now Professor
Cold well, of Acadia College.
"Prof. Chipman was now left alone. With the aid of
Mr. C. D. Eandall, A.M.. as classical tutor, the woi-k of
another year was performed, and the first epoch of the
history of the institution finished.
" After the departure of Dr. Pryor, a year elapsed be-
fore another president was appointed. The governors
were extremely desirous, at this critical juncture, of
obtaining the best man possible for this important posi-
tion. None seemed so likely to meet their requirements
as the Eev. J. M. Cramp, D.D., President of the Baptist
College, Montreal. The Baptists of the Lower Provinces
had formed the personal acquaintance of this gentleman
in 1846. As an author, he was favourably known many
years before, his ' Text Book of Popery' and ' The Ee-
fbrmation in Eui'ope ' having had quite a circulation in
Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. During his visit in
1846, he attended the college anniversary and associa-
tional gatherings, everywhere making a very Ikvorable
impression."
This visit in 1846 was made chiefly in behalf of
123
the Swiss Mission. The following extracts are
taken from a record of the journey, headed : —
First impressions of Nova Scotia. 1846.
This journey was undertaken chiefly on behalf
of the Swiss Mission, and including a short Adsit
to Boston, then seen for the first time, occupied
several days before reaching Halifax. Dr. Cramp's
Journal contains many descriptions of the beauti-
ful scenery which the slow method of travelling
enabled him to enjoy, and several references
to ministers and other friends whom he met on the
way.
Airiving at Halifax on June 2nd, the narrative
proceeds as follows : —
"June 4. — A line warm, clear day. After writing since
nine in the morning, called on Mr. Ferguson, and con-
versed at length on the state of religion in the province.
In the afternoon went across the harbour to Dartmouth.
Mr. Hunt took us for a ride through a very pleasant,
hilly, wooded district. The trees are small and apparently
stunted, the soil covered with a thick layer of stones.
Called on the Attorney-General — his country residence
being beautifully situated. A very tine view of Halifax
from Dartmouth, somewhat resembling that of Quebec
from the Charlesvoix and Montgomery roads, but not so
imposing.
"June 5. — Took a pleasant walk to the N.W. arm of
the sea, which runs in above Halifax, a very rocky dis-
trict with low trees. In the evening, attended the Con-
ference meeting. Father H. Harding, 85 years old,
presided."
" June 7. — A very fine day. Preached in the morning
124
from Eev^ i. 11, 18, and in the evening from Eom. xiii.
18. The Lord's supper in the afternoon. Father Harding
presided, and I assisted by taking the latter part of the
service.
" June 8. — Fine day, the Nova Scotian anniversary.
Flags, blue newspapers, ribbons, handkerchiefs ! Went
to the Province House. Externally it is neat, and even
handsome. Dined at the Attorney-General's. Conversa-
tion about registering births. Attended prayer meeting
in the evening.
"June 9,— Breakfasted at Dr. Sawers, saw the Me-
chanics' Institute, museum and lecture room. Wrote
letters to the churches in Nova Scotia and New Bruns-
wick. Conversation with Dr. Sawei's and Mr Nutting
on the college question.
" Colleges in Nova Scotia. — Dalhousie, with an en-
dowment of £7500, Three per Cents, and rentals from
the Post-office ; neither professor nor students. Kimfs
College, Windsor, about 15 students. Acadia, St. Mary's,
RC, a mere school. Pictou Presbyterian Academy. The
three latter receive £250 a year ; King's College, £444.
" June 10. — Began collecting at Dr. Hume's. Preached
in the evening.
"June 12. — Continued collecting. Went with Dr.
Sawers, Mi'. Barss and Mi-. Selden to the twelve-mile
house, a very pleasant drive on the S. side of the basin.
It has all the appearance of a lake, the shores wooded,
soil very rocky. Prince's Lodge, about five miles from
Halifax, where the Duke of Kent used to live, all in
ruins. Walked a mile or two beyond the house, the
scenery quite lovely. Dined and then came back.
" Churches in Halifax. — Two Methodist chapels, one
African do., two Scotch kirks, one Free church, one
Anti-burgher, two Baptist, three Episcopalian (another
125
building), two E. Catholic, one Universalist, one Sande-
manian (30 to 40 of them), one Campbellite.
"June 16.— Finished collecting. At Mr. M. Black's
with Mr. Richey.
"June 11. — Left at 10 minutes past 6, and crossed the
harbour to Dartmouth, where Brother Hunt met me with
his waggon. The road along the basin is retired, and
rather rough. Beyond, it is somewhat hilly, and the
country begins to be slightly cultivated. Stopped to
breakfast at the half-way house ; the next stage was
through a more cultivated and picturesque country.
Some parts had been evidently long Bettled ; the trees
were larger and the soil better. Here and there a small
lake. When we passed the ridge, and began to descend
towards Windsor, about twelve miles from that place, the
view became very beautiful. Nearer Windsoj-, the scenery
became more English. At one time I was reminded of
the valley of the Stour between Canterbury and Ashford.
Saw Sam Slick's house, King's College Academy, etc.
Windsor is a pretty village. The prospect from Fort
Edward is very pleasing. Dined there. Left again at
half-past hve. Passed through some good forest scenery
at some places, very deep ravines, several beautiful
valleys; the land about Horton is very rich dyke land.
Arrived at nine o'clock, — sixty miles.
" June 18. — Acadia College is situated on a beautiful
slope, before it the Cornwallis Eiver, with the Bay of
Minas on the right, and a very fertile district on both
sides of the river.
"At 10 A.M., the governors met in Mr. Pryor's parlour,
and resolved to grant the degree of B.A. to five students.
The college exercises began at 12. A large attendance.
Conferring the degrees. Addresses to the students. Dined
at Dr. Crawleys. Ascended the cupola ; extensive and
beautiful prospect. Spent the evening at Mr. Pryors.
126
" A very rainy day. Breakfasted at Dr. Johustou'a.
Many years ago be met with my work on Weekly Com-
munion, and re-published it in Nova Scotia, with extracts
from other works, in a pamphlet. Attended the exami-
nation of the academy, saw the philosophical apparatus,
the electrical, chemical, etc. ; select and good. The
geological and mineralogical specimens very numerous,
and as regards the Provinces, complete. Much conversa-
tion with the professors.
"Acadia College. — Description of the building &c. :
50 acres of upland ; 14 dykeland; the building of wood,
the pillars of the portico wanting; a neat cupola over
the centre, with a good bell, worth £40, presented by a
lady at Liverpool.
" The Academy, a separate building, also of wood, on
the west side. Mr. Pryor resides at the west end of it.
Dr. Crawley in the east end of the college. Mi\ Chip-
man has apartments in it. Gardens at each end tor the
Professors.
" June 20. — Eose at half-past 3. Left about 5. Eode 25
miles, the road generally good : the country between
Lawrencetown and Bridgetown very beautiful, the road
passing over high ground with many interesting views
Arrived at Bridgetown about 5, heard the conclusion of
H. Harding's sermon.
"June 21. — Lord's day. A good congregation in the
morning. Father Manning preached from Matt. v. 7. A
fine tall benevolent looking old man, with a black silk
cap on his head. I sat in the pulj)it with him and gave
a short address after his sermon ; in the afternoon preach-
ed to a crammed congregation. In the evening. Father
Magee preached a plain, useful sermon. Father Man-
ning was in his 80th year when he began to preach 57
years ago. There were but two Baptist Churches in
Nova Scotia, at Horton and Shelburne.
127
"June 22. — Attended the Education Society Committee
at 8.30, and the service at 10 ; the Association was then
organized. During the reading of letters from the
churches, reference was made to a specially destitute
region. After hearing of the need, Father H. Hardiuo-
rose and said : ' If I were young, I would put on my
fisher's coat, and go among them.' Father Manning-
added : 'And if I were young, I would go and help our
brother here, in Canada.' I gave an account of the Swiss
Mission, and the people determined to have a collection,
though it had been resolved not to have one.
" June 24. — The Association closed at two. Just before
my departure, I met Father Manning in the road, and
took leave of him. ' Have you a family ?" said he. On
my answering in the affirmative, he said, ' May the Lord
bless you, personally — domestically — ministerially — and
eternally ! ' Drove to Annapolis, about 14 miles, a plea-
sant ride through the valley,
" June 25. Walked about Annapolis, a quiet, and
rather desolate place, once the capital of the Province.
Took a view of the neighborhood irom the fort. Fouud
some soldiers from Kent : one from Chatham, one from
Dover, one from Sandwich. Left in the steamer at 12.
Annapolis Bay is a very pretty sheet of water. Digby
pleasantly situated. (The captain and sevej-al of the
men intoxicated.) Eeached St. John at 9, very tired.
"June 26.— A pleasant day ; spent it chiefly in walking
about and calling on friends. St. John is built on a rock,
the site very uneven. It is a bustling place, much busi-
ness going on. Tokens of activity and enterprise in
every direction — the houses pi-incipally of wood, but the
new ones of brick, — the streets wide, the harbour com-
pletely laud-locked, and well defended. Almost all the
places of worship are of wood, no high towers or spires."
" June 28. — A fine day. Preached in the morning at
128
the First Baptist Church, a long, nariow building, with
galleries on three sides, it was well filled. Crossed the
harbour in the steam-ferry, and preached at Carleton, —
the place small and crowded. Two friends conveyed us
in a boat (Mr. Duval and myself) along the harbour to a
convenient spot, whence we walked over a ridge to
Portland, drank tea at Mr. Seely's, and preached in the
evening ; the place of worship new, on an elevated site,
neatly built, and commodiously fitted up. Walked home
very weaiy. Texts : Isa. Hi. 13. 2 Kings, v. 14. Rom.
xiii. 11.
" June 30. — Left at 10 in the steamer. For many miles,
the banks of the river rise from the water's edge, leaving
an interval of land, and are but thinly covered with grass
or wood.
" But 50 miles down, the scenery changes, the prospect
widens, there are extensive marshes and fertile fields on
each side, with the forest in the distance. The river was
as smooth as a pond, the trees on the banks being re-
flected beneath, and the view sometimes resembling that
from the Thames, on the way to Richmond. In several
places there are islands on the river, furnishing very
beautiful scenery. At Oromuctoo it was particularly fine,
the banks are low, the land is in a good state of cultiva-
tion. The village is evidently flourishing, the farm-houses
and buildings are respectable ; altogether, it is an en-
chanting spot. Arrived at Fredericton at 8.
'' July 1. — Collecting in the morning; a meeting in
the evening, when I gave an account of the Mission.
" July 3. — Left at 9 ; reached St. John. Conference
meeting in the evening, when several ministers spoke.
'' July 4. — Fine day. Walked out with Mr. Duval ;
meeting at 2. Mr. Thompson preached; after the sermon,
about twenty ministers and others gave short addresses,
some of them very forcible and good.
129
" July 5. — Preached at Portland ; the place was
crammed and packed with people, and many stood at
the doors.
" July 6. — Services continued ; the Association consti-
tuted ; Committee meetings.
" July 7. — Committee on union at 9 ; public business at
10. Domestic missions ; an eloquent speech from Mr.
Kinnear ; then an account of the Swiss Mission by my-
self. Subscription followed ; £36 paid at the meeting.
A speech from Brother Cunningham, who was once a
Eoman Catholic.
" Business again at 3. Foreign Missions — another
speech from Mr. Kinnear — much business tact, zeal and
energy — the province well divided into districts for Mis-
sionary purposes.
" July 8. — Education Society at 10, and the remaining
business of the Association. Then I preached to the
ministers from 2 Tim. ii. 2. A ministerial conference in
the afternoon.
" Left at 6. A very affectionate farewell from Father
Crandall in the name of the whole, all standing.
" July 10. — Went on board the ' North America ' at *7.
The coast of New Brunswick is generally almost bare
rock, very thinly wooded, and sometimes wearing the
appearance of utter desolation. St. Andrew's Bay, a very
interesting spot, from the number of islands in it.
" July 12. — Beached Boston — a very hot day. Heard
Mr. Olmstead in the morning, fromEev. xiv. 6. Preached
in the afternoon from Isa. xlii. 44.
" July 13. — Walked out with Mi\ Colver, called on Mr.
Stow and some others. Left at 5 by train, and reached
Providence (45 miles) in an hour and 40 minutes. After
tea, walked into the city. The upper part is like a West-
end suburb : it consists of fine, wide, handsome streets,
9
130
the Bide-walks shaded with trees, and the houses very
substantial. The lower part presents an animated scene
of busy bustle, betokening energy, activity, and a pros-
perous, thriving State.
'• July 14. — AValked uj) to Brown University, and
found Dr. Wayland disengaged. Dined, and spent the
day with him, one of the pleasantest days I ever spent.
" We talked much about Jamaica ; he is greatly inter-
ested in the success of emancipation, and yet puzzled by
the conflicting statements. We talked of England, and of
present changes. lie -thinks that Sir Eobert Peel has
done more for his country than any man since the days
of Cromwell. He adverted to the treatment he had re-
ceived in England, on account of his views on slavery,
and remarked, to shew he was misunderstood, that most
of the students who came to the University from the
South, had returned home friends of abolition, and some
had determined to devote themselves to the amelioration
of the negro raoe. He made many enquiries respecting
the state of religion, and general affairs in Canada. At
his earnest request, I gave hira an account of our theolo-
gical system of training, of which he was pleased to ex-
press his entire approbation. He seemed particularly
pleased with our sermonising exercises. He shewed me
the library, containing 20,000 volumes, carefully selected,
admirably arranged, and continually increasing, the sum
of $5,000 being appropriated annually to it from a bequest.
Manning Hall, comprising on the principal floor, the
philosophical lecture-room and apparatus ; and on the
upper floor, a chapel, neatly fitted up, where the Doctor
preaches every Lord's Day afternoon, to the students, and
any other persons who may choose to attend ; and Ehode
Island Hall, the lower part of which contains the chemi-
cal lecture-room, laboratory and apparatus, and the upper
part, the collection of mineralogical specimens. In the
131
last mentioned room there is also a splendid portrait of
the late Mr, Brown.
" In conversation, Dr. W. strongly urged the impor-
tance of keeping the students employed in religious ex-
ercises of a useful kind, and of inducing the churches to
pay for them, as a proper check against needless or inter-
ested recommendations.
" He gave me four volumes of his works; walked part
of the way with me when I left, and insisted on carrying
my great coat, pleasantly remarking that he supposed
that was what the Apostle meant when he spoke of
' helping them forward after a godly sort ! ' Eeferring
to the Swiss Mission, he expressed his admiration of
Madame Feller, and his conviction that the work was of
God. Adverting to its success, he said that it was like
the Lord slaying Sisera by the hand of a woman.
" Left at half-past 6 in the ' Rhode Island,' an immense
steamer.
"July 15. — Eose at 5. The shores on both sides much
resembled the banks of the Thames, between Gravesend
and the Nore. Arrived at New York at a quarter before
8. Called on Messrs. Colby, Kelly and Cutting ; saw Dr.
Cone, &c.
" July 18. — A cool and windy day. Left at 7 in the
' Troy.' The first half of the voyage is very interesting.
The banks of the river are bold and steep, and the change-
ful scenery often sublime. The latter half of the voyage
presented fewer points of interest ; the only commanding
objects were the Catskill mountains. Arrived at 7, and
remained for the 'Lord's Day at Troy.
" July 20. — Left in the coach at 8i A. M. A very fine
drive all the way. The numerous windings of the road,
and the inequalities of the surface, some of the hills being
of considerable height, contribute to render the journey
very interesting ; reached Whitehall late in the evening.
132
" July 21. — Arrived at home. There are reasons for
gratitude: —
" 1. ¥01' preservation.
" 2. For pleasure — new acquaintances found — Christian
fellowship enjoyed — much useful information obtained —
assistance rendered to the cause.
" 3. For the accomplishment of objects — misapprehen-
sions removed — the Swiss Mission — Union between the
Provinces."
The Christian Messenger of May 15, 1846, then
"under the editorial management of Messrs. Nutting
and Ferguson, refers to the visit of Mr. Cramp to
Nova Scotia, as follows : —
" The Baptist Theological College at Montreal, has
been founded chiefly through the aid of the English Mis-
sionary Society, and is now in active and useful opera-
tion. The name of Dr. Davies, as connected with the
opening and subsequent management of the institution, is
well known to most of our readers. On his having been
called to preside over the Theological College at Stepney,
near London, the Eev. J. M. Cramp, A. M., one of the
most learned and able of our English brethren, has been
chosen to supply his place. The name of Bro. Cramp is,
doubtless, familiar to many, as the author of several
highly useful publications, intended to counteract the in-
fluence of Puseyism and Eomanism. . . .
" We shall hail with pleasm-e the arrival of our worthy
brother, the Eev. Mr. Cramp, one of whose chief objects
is, besides forming an acquaintance with his brethren
in these Lower Provinces, to obtain assistance for the
Swiss Mission. We shall rejoice in the opportunity which
will also be afforded of furthering a union greatly to be
desired between our Canadian brethren and ourselves, as
well as strenffthening the link that binds us to the deno-
133
mination in England, of which Bro. Cramp may be said
to be the chief representative on this side of the Atlantic."
In the Christian i^essewg-er of May 29, a long letter
appears signed "C." — probably Prof. Isaac Chip-
man — discussing the expected visit of Mr. Cramp,
and the benefits to be derived from a further ac-
quaintance with the G-rand Ligne Mission.
The C. 31. of June 5, 1846, contains a letter from
J. M. Cramp, then in Halifax, in which he says : —
" My only object in sending you these few lines is to
correct a statement in the closing paragraph of your cor-
respondent's ('C.') letter. It is to this eftect : — ' Our
brethren in Canada are, many of them, more open than
we, in their communion practices.' Allow me to inform
you that there are eight associations in Canada : seven of
them comprising 106 churches, practice strict commu-
nion ; the eighth, in the Niagara district, contains but
four churches, which are founded on the open communion
principle, and the same principle is adopted by two of the
churches, twenty in number, which are reported as unas-
sociated."
The next issue of the C. M., June 12th, informs
us that : —
" The Eev. J. M, Cramp, the Principal of the Baptist
Theological Institution at Montreal, preached to the
Granville Street Church on two consecutive Lord's Days,
on the latter of which he presented the object on whose
behalf he had come from Montreal."
Succeeding numbers of the C. M. speak of Mr.
C.'s presence at the Association at Bridgetown,
where he met aged and younger ministers of the
body. Only a few days after this, the first one of
these. Father Dimock, died.
134
Mr. Cramp also attended the Acadia College an-
niversary, which was held on the 18th of June.
Of the graduates of that year, but one now re-
mains — Mr. James S. Morse. Rev. Stephen W.
DeBlois was also one of that number. Mr. Cramp
is said to have given — " a very interesting, highly
practical, and useful address to the new gradu-
ates. . . His position, as the head of the Baptist
College in Montreal, gave additional effect to his
remarks, which were listened to by all present
with profound attention."
Some time after this, Dr. Cramp wrote some in-
teresting articles in the Christian Messenger, on
"The Fathers of the Nova Scotia and New Bruns-
wick Baptists."
CHAPTER X.
DR. CRAMP APPOINTED PRESIDENT OF ACADIA
COLLEGE.— 1851.
" In labours more abundant." — 2 Cor. xi. 23.
At a meeting of the Board of Grovernors of
Acadia College held in St. John, N.B., in Septem-
ber 1850, a resolution was passed, inviting Dr.
Cramp to come to N, S., and undertake the Presi-
dency of Acadia College.
There had been evidently some endeavour before
this, probably of a private character to induce him
to make a second visit to the Province Some
friends of the College were doubtless thinking of
him as the man to save the Institution, although
he at the time knew it not.
The following letter addressed to Prof. Chipman
in 1849, will show that he had been urged to come
and that at one time he had hoped to comply with
the request.
" Montreal, April 28, 1849.
" My Dear Brother : —
" Yours arrived yesterday, and I am very much obliged
to you for the trouble you have taken in preparing the
excellent suggestions contained in it.
136
" It is now, however, necessary to inform you that an
unexpected change has taken place in my affairs here,
which will deprive me of the pleasure I had antici-
pated.
" Mr. Campbell, the Publisher of our Register, has
bought the Pilot, a liberal newspaper, now the organ of
Government, and I have undertaken to manage it for him.
It is a tri-weekly paper, besides a weekly edition, and is
somewhat larger than the Register. You will at once
perceive that it will be impossible, under these circum-
stances, to leave Montreal. I am to enter on the new
duties next week, and shall have to carry them on, con-
jointly with my engagement here, till the end of May.
" I have been induced to enter upon this occupation,
partly because I have a taste for it, and partly because it
will enable me to retain my personal superintendence
over my youngest son, who is about to commence active
life in some department.
•' Although my time will be pretty much occupied, I
shall find time for certain literary enterprises, and shall
endeavour to advance tho interests of our denominations
in various ways.
" My excellent brother, the Eev. F. Bosworth, A.M.,
who was Professor of languages here, for several years,
was compelled to leave us last year, and undertake a
voyage for the benefit of his health. Excessive study
had overpowered him. He went to Buenos Ayres, and
spent several months there. He returned this week, with
restored health. We have nothing here to offer him, nor
is he desirous of remaining in Canada. You would find
him a great acquisition. He is an excellent classical
scholar, enthusiastically fond of Hebrew, and other orien-
tal languages, and well stored with all kinds of general
knowledge. He is, besides, an acceptable preacher. If
yoa can find a niche for him, either in the College, or as
137
a Pastor of some Church, you will soon begin to rejoice
in having enriched Nova Scotia by transplanting him
among you. I commend him to your notice, and have
his permission to do so. Any communication to him may
be addressed to my care.
" Please to give my kind regards to Dr. Pry or, and
say that I am greatly disappointed. I had hoped to enjoy
much pleasure in attending your meetings, and confer-
ring with you all respecting the cause of God. That hope
is now cut off. I trust that you will have a season of
holy delight, and that enlarged liberal purposes will
testify the genuineness and depth of feeling.
"In this Province, saving a few very green spots, all
is dry and barren. Oh ! for a plentiful shower.
" I am obliged to conclude, or I shall lose the mail.
Every blessing rest on you.
" Yours faithfully,
"J. M. Cramp.
"Professor Chipman."
The engagements referred to in this letter,
made it very difficult for him to decide, even after
the formal invitation of the Board reached him.
The Grovernors of the College, however, pressed
the claims of Acadia. The correspondence was
conducted by Prof Chipman, who entered into
that, as into everything else which he under-
took, with all his heart. The result was that,
at last, all difficulties werere moved, and Dr.
Cramp accepted the invitation. Not, however,
until he had satisfied himself by correspondence
with many of the leading men in the denomina-
tion that his appointment would be generally
acceptable to the people. "When assured of this, he
wrote : —
138
" I respond to your call, and henceforth devote myself
to the cause of education in Nova Sootia, especially as
connected with Acadia College."
He came to Wolfville iii May, 1851, aud was in-
stalled President of the College on the 20th of
June. The Hon. J. W. Johnston was President of
the meeting and introduced the new President in
his usual happy and eloquent style. The follow-
ing years showed how true were his words when
he said : —
*' The acknowledged talents of Dr. Cramp, and his well-
known acquirements as a Scholar and a theologian, attest
the wisdom of the appointment made by the Grovernors
of Acadia College ; and offer the surest pledge that the
interests of the Institution, whose welfare lies so near
our hearts, will be promoted by the selection they have
made."
The Rev. Theodore Harding occupied the chair,
implored the divine blessing on the exercises of
the day, and presenting the right hand of fellow-
ship to the President elect, coidially welcomed him
to his new office, and assured him, in his peculi-
arly fervent style, that the friends of the College
would give their sympathy and support.
A few extracts from the Inaugural Address
which followed may be deemed appropriate here.
" I rejoice that it is not necessary on the present oc-
casion, and before this assembly, to plead on behalf of
learning. I stand in the midst of the friends of education.
You require no convincing argument or persuasive ora-
tory on this subject. If there were ever any doubts in
your minds, those doubts have been long since removed.
139
The inspired sage has taught you that for the soul to be
without knowledge it is not good, and that divine saying
has been illustrated and confirmed by the experience of
accumulated centuries.
" Instructed by the records of past ages, and contem-
plating the human constitution in the light in which it
is presented to view by the best and holiest authors, you
regard the intellectual powers of man as capable of high
cultivation. You recognize also the duty of cultivating
them, and of employing mind with all its acquisitions,
for worthy purposes. You deem it of great importance
that man should become acquainted with the works of
God, and investigate the laws which He has instituted in
the kingdom of nature, both animate and inanimate, and
that he should know the history of his race, and be able
to derive instruction and improvement from the produc-
tions which have immortalized the wise men of antiquity,
and exerted a powerful influence on all successive gene-
rations Spared then the necessity of
advocating the claims of our Institution, as a seminary
of learning, it is with gi'eat satisfaction that I offer you
my hearty congratulations on the success which you have
already achieved in the glorious enterprize. This estab-
lishment is a splendid manifistation of Baptist energy.
You have set your fellow countrymen au example of en-
lightened liberality, and testified before the world the
deep sense which you entertain of the advantages of
mental improvement. Posterity will doubtless award
the due meed of praise, and bless the memory of the
founders of Acadia College
" A clear and comprehensive view of our present posi-
tion and prospects will enable us to discern the path of
duty. It is especially incumbent on us to bear in mind
that the age is remarkably progressive, and that all in-
stitutions must keep pace with it, or sink in public esti-
140
nation. The range of study is extending every year, as
the boundaries of science expand, so that the instructor
finds it necessary to incorporate additional branches in
his course, and the student is compelled, if he would
avoid the reproach of ignorance, to spend much time in
making acquisitions for which there was no demand in
the days of his predecessors ; while the ancient standards
of learning still retain, and must continue to retain, their
place and pre-eminence
" To such considerations must be added the peculiar
claims of these Provinces, now beginning to emerge into
activity and enterprise. Nova Scotia and New Bruns-
wick are shaking themselves from the dust, and rousing
up the energies of their sons. They ask for railroads, and
they will assuredly have them. Their agriculture is to
be improved by science. Their mineral wealth is to be
profitably explored. Their ships will sail all waters.
Their resoui'ces and capabilities, not yet half developed,
will be ascertained, and brought into useful operation.
Now, in order to the accomplishment of these and other
beneficial results, the talent of the Provinces must be
sought out in every direction, and carefully cultivated.
There will be abundant employment for men of ability
and skill, both in originating improvements and directing
the agencies, by which they may become available to the
public ; and if such men are trained in the Provinces,
patriotism will inspire them with ardor, and their efforts
will be carried on with zeal, which strangers would emu-
late in vain. It is obvious, therefore, that a solemn respon-
sibility rests on our institutions of learning, and that such
arrangements as the exigencies of the times call for,
must be provided. The supporters of this College, it
cannot be doubted, will duly consider these facts and ex-
pectations, and act with chaj-acteristic ' largeness of
heart.' ....
141
" There are two other points to which it will be proper
to advert. One is the importance of thoroughness. A
superficial acquaintance with any subject may be easily
and quickly acquired, and may excite the admiration of
persons who are apt to mistake appearances for realities,
and are therefore ill qualified to form a judgment ; but
good scholarship is the result of patient assiduity. The
students of Acadia College, it is confidently hoped, will
carefully avoid the danger into which those are liable to
fall, who in their desire to learn everything, learn nothing
well
'•' The second point to which I ask attention is the im-
portance of religious influence, pervading the whole
course of study, and sanctifying, so to speak, all the
arrangements. This College is open to all denominations,
no religious tests being imposed either on students or
Professors; nevertheless, we must claim the right of
aiming to imbue literature with the spirit of religion,
andof inciilcating, from time to time, those principles of
our common Christianity, and those moral lessons which
are admitted by all who wish to shun the reproach of
infidelity. Habitual recognition of God, should distin-
guish every seat of learning, so that while the din of
controversy is never heard, and party contentions are
unknown, all may be taught that ' the fear of the Lord is
the beginning of wisdom.' It has been well observed,
that ' it is our educated young men who will give the
tone to society, and control the destiny of the genera-
tion in which they live.' How desirable, nay even
necessary, it is that the education they receive, while
truly liberal in its plans and provisions, should be con-
nected with that moral conservatism, without which, the
advantages of knowledge itself may prove comparatively
valueless."
142
The inaugural goes on at length, pleading for
progressive movements ; for liberal support ; for
ample provision for imparting theological instruc-
tion to such as may need it, and concludes as
follows : —
" Invited by the Governors of this College to assume
the Presidency, I have responded to the invitation after
much reflection and prayer, and stand this day before
you in the official character which has been conferred
upon me. I undertake this office with a deep conviction
of the responsibilities which it involves. I should shrink
from chose responsibilities, and from the trial and anxiety
which must unavoidably be encountered,were it not for the
assurance which I entertain, that in answering this call,
I have obeyed the voice of CTod, on whose promises of aid
his servants may confidently rely, when they walk in the
path of duty. The cordiality with which the invitation
was extended, and the gratifying fact of the union of the
Baptists in these Provinces for this object, together with
the noble subscription raised for the purpose of liquidat-
ing the heavy debt on the Institution, tend still further
to cheer and encourage me, showing that the interests of
Acadia College have a high place in the esteem of the
Denomination, with which it is especially identified, and
that they will not be suffered to fall into decay.
" When I call to mind the persevering devotedness and
self denial, with which my predecessors pm-sued their
course, and the respect in which they are on that account
deservedly held by the churches, I feel that I enter upon
the office under far difterent circumstances, and that I
cannot hope to reach the position to which they have
attained, yet I trust that by the manifestation of sincere
and ardent desii'es for the prosperity of the cause, and by
diligent attention to the duties of the station in which I
143
am placed, I shall succeed in gainins^ your confidence. I
have come, therefore, believing that my brethren here
will evince a generous sympathy, and heartily co-operate
with me in the good work. I have come, expecting to
find a chivalrous zeal for education, and determined en-
deavour, on your parts, by judicious and liberal arrange-
ments, to establish and maintain a course of instruction
80 appropriate and comprehensive that the youth of the
Provinces will feel the force of the attraction, and seek to
satisfy within these walls their desire for knowledge. I
shall not be disappointed. You have ventured on a bold
experiment, and you will succeed. Eesourceswill not be
wanting. United as one man in the prosecution of this
undertaking and constantly invoking the blessing of
Almighty God, Acadia College is safe in your hands.
Esto perpetua is the fervent prayer of her sons."
This inaugural address, fragmentary extracts of
which have been given, so thoroughly prepared,
so appropriate to the occasion, and so admirably
delivered, showed in what spirit the new president
entered upon the duties of the office. He realized
that a great work lay before him. It was not
Acadia College, simply as a seat of learning, that he
took charge of that day. It was not to settle down
among the musty books of learned lore, and starve
himself and his students among the dry bones
of theoretical learning. All the varied interests of
the comparatively young and undeveloped Pro-
vinces, were before him. To provide for these
interests was his aim. The wants of the churches,
many of them soon to be left vacant by the retire-
ment of the well tried and worthy men, who
under God, had given piety a prominent place
144
amonjy the people, were outstretched before his
eyes and pressing upon his heart. The college,
with all its possibilities was to him, not an end,
but only the means to an end. And that end was
the temporal and spiritual advancement of the
people among whom his lot was now cast. From
the day that Dr. Cramp assumed the management
of Acadia College, he completely identified himself
with every laudable enterprise in these Provinces.
He soon knew more about the educational wants of
the country than those who were teaching the
schools ; and more of the religious condition and
history of the churches, than those who had been
for long years preaching to them. He girded him-
self for a great work. And so many and so varied
were the duties undertaken, that any ordinary man
would have been bewildered and appalled thereby.
It is very difficult now to understand how he
overtook all the work which pressed upon him
day after day.
All the provincial aid had been withdrawn or
surrendered. A heavy debt rested upon the insti-
tution. The students were scattered and gone.
There was only one professor besides the presi-
dent. The friends of the college were disheartened.
The appeals to the benevolence of the churches
had become stale and almost ineffectual. Drs.
Crawley and Pryor, through their personal in-
fluence, had gathered much sympathy around the
college. They were both gone, and in the estima-
tion of many, when they were gone, all was gone.
It was very like beginning at the original founda-
145
tions again, with this difference — all the romance
and enthusiam which gather around a new enter-
prise had already expended their strength. A
hopeful, prosperous Baptist College for the Mari-
time Provinces was deemed by many as a dream
of the past and a failure. These were disposed to
say : It is useless to make further efforts, — and
but for some faithful friend like J. W. Barss and a
few others, these gloomy forebodings would have
been realized.
After much prayerful deliberation by the board
of governors, the meetings of which were fre-
quently continued till after midnight, it was
determined to endeavour to raise an endowment
for the college. Dr. Cramp took hold of this mat-
ter with great energy. He wrote to friends of the
institutions all over the Provinces. He had per-
sonal interviews with as many as possible. He at-
tended associations and ably urged the claims of
Christian education, and kept the matter before the
people in the press till it became a settled convic-
tion that Acadia College must be endowed, and
that by this means only could she be equipped for
the work that lay before her. In connection with
the general scheme of endowment, a system of
scholarships was inaugurated. By the payment
of ,£100, into the endowment fund, the donor
secured the right of free tuition in the college for
all time to come.
Agents were appointed to help work out these
schemes, and many friends assisted. But the one
man who was the inspiring and guiding agency
10
146
of the whole was the president of the college.
His determined energy, cheerful manner, genial
spirit and stirring appeals awakened a hopefulness
for the future that had not been known for years.
It was at once felt that a new life had been infused
into the educational work of the denomination.
Old friends were encouraged, lukewarm ones were
overawed, and new ones were found, many of
whom are still giving their best energies to this
enterprise.
The work outside, however great and important,
was not allowed to encroach upon the official duties
of the president. A glance at the first published
programme of college work proper after Dr.
Cramp's appointment will show that the internal
duties were not light ones.
Faculty.
Eev. J. M. Cramp, D.D., President and ProfeBSOr of
Hebrew and Chaldee Languages, Theology and Moral
Science.
Professor of the Greek and Latin Languages
and Literature.
The President is acting Professoi* in this department
till an appointment is made.
Isaac Chipman, Esq., A.M., Professor of Mathematics
and Natural Philosophy, and acting Professor of Intel-
lectual Philosophy, Logic and Ehetoric.
Course op Instruction.
The course of instruction comprises the following
branches : —
The Greek and Latin Classes.
147
Mathematics, includiug Geometry, Algebra, Trigonom-
etry, with their application to Mensuration of Surfaces
and Solids, and to IN'avigation, Surveying &c., Differen-
tial and Integral Calculus, Natural Philosophy, includ-
ing Mechanics, Hydrostatics, Pneumatics and Optics.
Chemistry.
Astronomy.
Intellectual Philosophy.
Moral Philosophy and the evidences of Christianity.
Logic and Ehetoric.
The French Language.
A monthly Lecture is delivered on subjects not in-
cluded in the course. This lecture is open to the public
at a small charge.
No small amount of work then was undertaken
by the President of the College and his devoted
assistant, Prof. Chipman. The educators of the
present day would cry " preposterous." " No two
men could over take the work," and even with an
additional professor, whose appointment was ex-
pected at an early date, instruction worthy of the
name could not be given in all these varied branches
Each of them would require the full strength
of an able man. And yet with some assistance
from senior students, the work of the classes went
regularly on. There are several men now filling im-
portant positions in the church and in the state
who were students at Acadia at the time referred
to. And it may be safely affirmed that not one of
them will venture to say that he ever entered or
retired from a class conducted by the President of
the College without the feeling that his teacher
was thoroughly master of the work in hand.
148
There was indeed such a fund of iuformation, and
always ready, not only on the question under dis-
cussion, but upon all kindred topics, the text
book used, and other authors on the same subject,
that the students soon came to regard Dr. Cramp,
as a comprehensive encyclopaedia of all knowledge.
But his knowledge was not theoretical and specula-
tive. For this kind of learning he had no taste,
and sometimes but little patience. The facts of the
case were the matters with which he loved to deal,
and these were wonderfully at his command.
If the class were required to translate a difficult
Latin book, it was soon found that the teacher
could go minutely into the grammatical structure
of the sentences and make the meaning plain, and
also give the history of the author and his contem-
poraries, and the circumstances under which the
book was written.
If it were an oration of Demosthenes, or a G-reek
play, not only were the G-reek roots uprooted, but
G-recian history, literature and mythology were
all freely taxed, to make enigmatical references
bear their part in the composition. If it were a
lesson in moral science, not only were the thoughts
of the text book thoroughly weighed, but the
views of other authors on the same subject were
placed side by side with them, to see how far they
agreed, and where they differed. If it were a
lesson in theology, for ministerial students, it was
found that every doctrine of the Bible had been
most deeply pondered, the circumstances of every
inspired author thoroughly considered, the con-
149
temporary literature of each book gathered up, the
errors or evils which needed correction, and called
forth the warning, were alluded to. In fact, the
entire Bible, from beginning to end, and all that
pertains to a life of piety, or to the preacher's work,
were so completely grappled with, that every stu-
dent felt that Dr. Cramp was competent to give
instruction in theology. All of which would call
forth no special comment, if a specialist had been
dealing with each subject. This would be noth-
ing more than might be expected, and indeed ought
to be demanded of the teacher. But the wonder
was to find any one man who could act so well
the part of a specialist on such a variety of dissim-
ilar subjects. In this respect, it is doubtful if any
man in these provinces at least, was the peer of
the late President of Acadia College.
As already stated, in June, 1851, Dr. Cramp was
installed President of Acadia College. During the
year previous there had been no president. Prof.
Chipman, with the aid of tutors, had kept the
classes at work, with a forlorn hope on the one
hand, but with wonderful trust in God on the
other, that deliverance would come. If earnest
prayers were ever offered, Isaac Chipman offered
them, during the year that he alone kept the col-
lege alive. These petitions were answered as
already shown. A great burden of anxiety was
rolled off, and with a new spring, he bounded to
the work. He trusted the president, and the pre-
sident confided in the professor. A very superior
class of students gathered around the institution,
150
as honest, as earnest, as devoted and as sincere as
any class that has ever sought instruction within
her walls. Some of them, we may venture to name,
for they are beyond the reach of our praise or
blame : Grrant, Rand, Phalen, King. Angell, etc.
These and such like men, thirsting for knowledge,
and competent to receive it, inspired the teachers
to make ample provision for the yet undeveloped
resources of mental power in these Provinces.
The endowment plan was seized upon. In
April, 1852, it was resolved to raise for this
purpose, jeiO,000. The work was in progress.
Scholarships were subscribed and smaller sums
conti ibuted- Things looked hopeful. The follow-
ing extracts from a report of the anniversary
exercises of June 4, will show that there was life
manifested : —
" The hall was crowded by an amazingly attentive
and patient audience, whose repeated expressions of ap-
probation indicated the satisfaction with which they had
listened. The orations were pronounced excellent by
competent judges.
" Father Harding gave vent to his kind feelings in a
strain of imjjassioned eloquence. He was followed by
Eev. Messrs. Very and Hall, who expressed their appro-
bation in strong terms, and favored the meeting with
many instructive remarks.
" The President referred to the endowment, and stated
the very encouraging fact that the sum of £2,000 had
been subscribed in the townships of Horton and Corn-
wallis. The name of J. W. Barss, Esq., stands at the
head of this list : he subscribes £500. Five scholarships
are subscribed for by other individuals in Horton. One is
151
raised by the First Horton Church, and another set on
foot by the students, — it will bear the name of the Rev.
Theodore Harding. Four scholarships are secured by
members of the First Cornwallis Church ; a church schol-
arship is also subscribed for, aud an Edward Manning
scholarship. Two scholarships are connected with the
Second Cornwallis Church.
" The examinations of the students occupied two days.
There were classes in Latin, Grreek, algebra, mental
philosophy, evidences of Christanity, Hebrew, nautical
astronomy, and other branches. The students acquitted
themselves well. Several of the governors were present,
and expressed themselves as highly gratified with all
they saw and heard.
" This exhibition of life, both outside of the college and
inside, shows that the touch of a master hand was being
felt."
And here follows a brief outline of the class
work of the President during the year : —
" Classics. — In Greek, the senior class have read the
Medea of Euripides, from the 908th line to the end. A
portion of the first book of Homer's Odyessey and 95
sections of the Oration of Demosthenes on the Crown.
"The junior class have read in the Hiad of Homer
throughout the term.
" In Latin, the senior class have read the Agricola of
Tacitus, from chap. xix. to the end, the whole of G-er-
mania, and chap. xiii. of Cicero de Officiis.
" The junior class have read Sallust's Catiline, from
chap. xvi. to the end, and twenty of the Odes of Horace,
selected from his third and fourth books. This class has
also been regularly exercised in Greek and Latin com-
position.
" Mental Philosophy.— The class in Mental Philosophy
152
have gone through Upham's Treatise on the Intellect as
a text-hook, with extended comments.
^' Moral Philosophy. — A class, chiefly composed of senior
students, was formed immediately after the opening of
the fall terra. Dr. Wayland's Moral Philosophy was
used as a text-book.
" Evidences of Christianity. — Having completed the
course of moral philosophy, the above mentioned class
proceeded to the study of the evidences of Christianity.
Dr. Paley's well-known treatise was the book employed,
and lectures were delivered, embracing many topics,
which are but slightly touched or altogether omitted in
that work.
" Rhetoric and Elocution. — Blair's Lectures have been
the basis of the instruction in rhetoric, and once a week
exercises have been conducted in reading or declamation.
" Essays. — The students have written essays on various
subjects, literary, historical, etc., which have been exam-
ined and criticised, with a view to improvement in com-
position. Seventy-six essays have been prepared during
the terms.
" Theological Department. — The President regrets that
so little has been done in this department. Having been
compelled to undertake the duties of the classical pro-
fessor, he has been unable to give attention to theological
instruction, except to a very limited extent."
"An exegetical exercise on the Greek Testament has
been attended to once a week, in which all the students
have shared. A Hebrew class has been formed. After
studying Gesenius's Grammar, the class commenced
translation, first in the reading book and then in Genesis,
in which the first six chapters have been read.
" Skeletons of sermons have been prepared every week
by the theological students and submitted for examin-
ation.
153
" Lectures on preaching and on church government,
have been delivered, but theology and ecclesiastical his-
tory have been entirely neglected, for the reason above
mentioned, with the exception of the delivery of " an
introductory lecture."
This with a monthly public lecture on various
subjects, and a sermon every Sunday evening in
the church, will afford some idea of the first year's
work of Dr. Cramp as the President of Acadia
College.
It can only be accounted for by remembering that
he had been all his life a most diligent student.
He was always at work. He had a vigorous,
active mind, and very retentive memory. Names,
dates and incidents which might be needed, were
labelled in some w^ay, and always on hand. He
was very systematic and careful in all his habits,
so that neither time nor strength was wasted.
And thus by using materials already collected, and
persistent energy, the result of long training, he
was able to accomplish the work which would
seem to have required two or three men.
We have dwelt long on this first year's work at
Acadia, because it may be taken as typical of all
that followed. But the busy, active, hopeful year
had a fearful ending.
The College closed on June 4. On June 5, the
President prepared a report of the year's work for
the Christian Messenger ; extracts from which have
already been given.
On June 8th, the following was sent to the
same paper : —
154
"After sending you the telegraphic dispatch this
morning, I obtained full information respecting the
catastrophe which has spread mourning, lamentation and
woe, throughout our Denomination in these Provinces,
and now hasten to transmit it to you. Brother Very,
having a taste for geological pursuits, felt desirous of
obtaining specimens from Cape Blomidon, so well known
as Professor Chipman's favourite resort for that purpose.
They agreed to form a party for a visit to the spot. Four
of the students, Benjamin Eand, Anthony E. Phalen, "W.
Henry King and William E. Grant consented to accom-
pany them. There were also two boatmen, George
Benjamin and Percy Caldwell. The following narration
of the disaster is given substantially in the words of
Benjamin, the only survivor.
" They left Wolfville yesterday morning about five
o'clock. The weather was then fine. They were three
hours crossing over to the Cape, where the gentle-
men landed, and remained till noon. It began to blow,
just before they started on their return, but became calm
when they were between the Cape and Long Spell. It
freshened again when they were about half way across
and veered round more to the south, heading them off
towards Long Island. They tacked and stood across for
Cornwallis, when they came about again they stood for
Long Island Creek, intending to land there, as the wind
had become stronger. When they were nearly half a
mile from the island, a sea struck the boat and half filled
her ; they succeeded however in baling out nearly all the
water and put about the boat before the wind, j)urpo8ing
to run in at the back of the island. Just then (it was
about four o'clock) they were struck by a heavy sea,
which swamped the boat immediately. She went down
stern first and turned bottom upwards. All, with the
exception of Grant (who sunk at once) and Professor
\
155
Chipman (of whom presently) clung to the boat and en-
deavoured to get upon it, when it tui*ned completely-
round till it was bottom upwards again. Eand and King
were lost in this movement. The remaining foui* still
clung to the boat. They were washed off two or three
times, but gained it again. At length Phalen and Cald-
well were washed off together and rose no more. Soon
Mr. Very was washed off^ but he swam to the boat and
was assisted on it by Benjamin. He held on by the stem
for ten or fifteen minutes, when three heavy seas in suc-
cession broke over them and swept Mr. Yery away.
" Professor Chipman was upon the mainsail which had
got adrift when the boat upset. He was heai'd to call
aloud for help, but none could be rendered. Benjamin
saw him at about twenty rods distance a few minutes
before Mr. Yery sunk ; he appeared to be then dead.
"The boat dragged towards the shore till it was right
off the point of Long Island, when it held on. Benjamin
then stripped off his clothes and swam to the shore, which
he reached in a very exhausted state. The boat was
found this morning bottom upwards, but little injured.
" Benjamin adds that Messrs. Yery, Phalen and Grrant
had suffered much from sea-sickness; Grant seemed to be
disabled by it, which may account for his sinking imme-
diately.
'* It is not surprising that in the confusion of such a
struggle, no words escaped them, indicating their inward
feelings. All their energies were concentrated in the
effort for self-preservation. The Lord understood the
utterances of their hearts.
" Careful search for the bodies is now going on, I hope
we shall have the melancholy satisfaction of paying them
the last tribute of affection and respect.
" I cannot attempt reflections, for I can scarcely think.
It is a stunning stroke. Grod have mercy on the widow
156
and the fatherless — on sorrowing friends — on our
churches and institutions, so sorely bereft,
''J. M. Cramp."
This letter has been given in full, both for tbe
sake of affording a permanent record of the greatest
calamity that has as yet fallen upon the institu-
tions of Horton, and also as an illustration of a
leading characteristic of the writer. In all the
overwhelming distress of the hour, he addressed
himself to the duty which seemed to lie before
him, knowing that the minutest details of the sad
event would be eagerly sought after by all the
mourning friends, he went directly to the only one
who could give the facts. And by repeated ques-
tions on every conceivable point, secured all that
ever could be found out of this sad calamity, and
then hastened to place it before the public. Pains-
taking in research, and promptness in despatch,
gave him success when another of equal ability,
but lacking these elements might, have failed.
It is difficult at this date to realize how comple-
tely this event seemed to upset every plan in
connection with the college. The students, whose
classmates and companions had been thus swept
away, felt that college life was spoiled for them.
Professor Chipman, who had been a tower of
strength, was gone. And it was some time before
the President knew what to advise. Wisdom and
strength, however, were given. The cause was too
important to be abandoned. The resolve was to
go on, and trust.
15^
In January of 1853, the college was re-opened.
No new appointments had been made. But the
President undertook, with such assistance as he
might secure from the academy, and from a senior
student or two, to carry on the work. The report
of the governors stated that the result was satis-
factory.
Dr. Crawley was shortly after this invited to
return. "We quote from the history of the College
published in 1881.
It was felt that the college, at this crisis in her
history, needed the best men in the denomination
to fill the vacant chairs, but it proved to be a
somewhat difficult matter, without doing injustice
to existing arrangements, to offer Dr. Crawley a
position commensurate with his present standing
and past services. What the governors were
unable to effect, was, however, very amicably ar-
ranged by Dr. Cramp and Dr. Crawley themselves
in a personal conference. Their scheme, as adopted,
is embodied in the following resolution of the
Board : —
" Eesolved that there shall henceforth be in the Univez--
sity of Acadia College, an institution for literary and scien-
tific instruction, to be called Acadia College, and also an in-
stitute for theological instruction to be called the Theologi-
cal Institute. Dr. Cramp was appointed principal of the
Theological Institute and professor of logic, political
economy and history in the college ; Dr. Crawley was
made president of the arts course and professor of He-
brew in the institute. This arrangement went into effect
in Sept. 1853. In Xov. Prof. Stuart returned, to fill with
158
marked ability, for the succeeding five years, the chair of
mathematics and natiu*al science."
The following reference to this period is taken
from a "Tribute In Memoriam " written by Dr.
Crawley, and published in the Acadia Athenceum^
of January, 1882 : —
'"Dr. Cramp had been comparatively but a short time
President of Acadia, so fondly styled the child of Provi-
dence, when all at once Providence seemed turned against
her. Then came the perhaps unwise appointment of
another president, and of his own removal to the position
of principal of the theological department. Dr. Cramp's
demeanour at the time well deserves to be remembered ;
there escaped from him no unseemly word ; he met these
untoward changes with calm composure. Some singular
transpositions occurred then and afterwards ; for the
change of position made in 1853 was again reversed in
1865. The former president then took the position of
professor of theology, with other branches in the art
course ; Dr. Cramp continuing at the head of the uni-
versity.
" The eleven long years passed between 1855 and 1866,
well deserve to be made the proud boast of all who honor
the memory of our departed friend.
" The college was still weak and staggering at the
time of Dr. Cramp's resumed presidency in 1855. In
1866 it had become well organized and flourishing. In
1869 occurred his formal resignation of the presidemcy.
CHAPTER XL
ESTABLISHMENT OF A THEOLOGICAL DEPARTMENT.
1853.
"... The same commit thou to faithful men who shall
be able to teach others also." — 2 Tim. ii. 2.
The change referred to was mutually agreed
upon between Drs. Cramp and Crawley. It was
very gratifying to many of the old friends of Dr.
Crawley, to see him once more identified with the
institution. In fact, some supposed that, but for
his efforts at the outset, the college would never
have come into existence. "Whether this were so
or not, it is true that, both by his voice and pen,
he had given a great impetus to the undertaking.
And the denomination could not easily forget the
valuable services rendered by him during all the
early years of its struggles.
This change, together with the appointment of
an additional professor, relieved Dr. Cramp of
many burdens which he had been bearing. It also
gave him work far more in the line of his own
sympathies and interests. Education he prized as
160
highly as any man could. But the special phase
of education which tended to develop the kind of
men needed by the churches, was that on which
his heart was most thoroughly set. He, therefore,
entered into this new work with great enthusiasm
and zeal. Theological students were made to feel
that a great work lay before them, and that they
needed all the training of the schools, and much
that the schools could not give them, before
they would be prepared to perform that work
aright.
The address delivered at the outset of this new
phase of college work will show in what spirit
and with what aims the principal of the theologi-
cal department entered upon these engagements : —
"Address at the Public Celebration, Dec. 20, 1853.
" The patrons and friends of Acadia College have good
reason to rejoice that their arrangements are so far com-
pleted. Ample provision is now made for all the ordin-
ary branches of collegiate education, and our young men
have no need to go out of the country.
" Special reference is here made to candidates for the
ministry, . . . that is, not those who would study for
the profession, . . . but true-hearted believers . . .
whose aptness to teach is perceived and acknowledged,
who * desire the office of a bishop,' because they are under
a holy constraint, borne away by love to Christ and to
the souls of men, and who repair hither that they may
be better fitted, as far as human perception goes, for the
great and good work. For them as well as for the general
student, the means of instruction are sujDplied.
" The facilities offered to the theological student, em-
161
brace these particulars : acquaintance with the languages
in which the Scriptures were Avritten, pi-inciples and rules
of Biblical interpretation, illustrated and applied in exege-
tical exercises ; . . . . the reasons of faith, why they,
believe; .... the faith itself; ivhat they believe,
tracing the gradual development of religious truth from
the patriarchal period to the Gospel dispensation, and up-
holding the mind of God, so far as it is revealed, respect-
ing His own glorious character, attributes, and mode of
existence ; the state of man ; the salvation ; the Church ;
the invisible world, and the Divine purposes ; the his-
tory of the faith, including the state and progress of
religion in successive ages; the divergencies from
truth, the controversies ; the sects ; the suflterings ; the
fall and the rising again, including a full history of our
own denomination ; the Divinely-appointed means of
propagation, the manner in which ministerial and pas-
toral duties may be most profitably discharged.
" Such is the course. Views relating to one branch,
ecclesiastical history, have been given at length in a
former lectui-e. Present observations are confined to
Biblical theology, with a d esign to state the thoughts,
feelings, and intentions of the theological faculty."
"Biblical Theology.
'•' This expression is used in contradistinction from
human systems. Their object is, not to collect and com-
pare many various opinions, nor to hew and square the
divine revelation by the measure of any human standard;
but, first of all, to ascertain, by assiduous and reverent
inquiry, the ti'uth of God, as contained in His own word,
. . that they may place before the mind of the student,
the Infinite One, by Himself pourtrayed, in the splen-
dour of His character, the harmony of His perfections,
10
162
the marvels of His redemption, the mysteries and mercies
of His dispensations, the unsullied glory of His govern-
ment, from the first promise to the fulfilment of the last
prophecy, the completion of the cycle of heavenly mani-
festations and God-like works.
" They are deeply impressed with a sense of the dig-
nity of their enterprise. Theology is the most sublime
of all sciences. Other studies relate to combinations of
matter, arrangements of words, the things and events of
this passing world, or the chaiacters and deeds of men ;
but here we have to do with the eternal mind, its arrange-
ments and influences, . . . the laws of His holiness,
the Gospel of His grace, . . the paths of life and death,
. . and the everlasting destiny of His creatures. They
know that here mistake is perilous, error may be fatal,
and that it is of utmost moment that those who engage
in holy ministry should ' by manifestation of the truth,
commend themselves to every man's conscience.' They
feel the solemn responsibilty of their position : those who
train the teachers of Christianity should themselves
understand, and clearly and comprehensively state before
them ' all the council of God.'
" In making this attempt, they feel the necessity
of constantly bearing in mind that Christian theology
is pre-eminently the word of Christ — nothing more —
nothing less. All perversions of the faith have arisen
from neglect and forgetfulness of this fact. Men have
sought to mingle the services of science, falsely so called,
with God's revelation; they have grafted their own
imaginations on the stock of Christian verity ; they have
placed over the lamp of life the dark covering of Schol-
asticism ; they have made the Word of God of none
effect through traditioii. Nor were such endeavours
confined to the Middle Ages — they characterise many
sects and systems in these times, and hence the per-
163
petual need of reminding the inquirer that if he would
have pure theology, he must derive it from the Bible,
and the Bible only, and of so ordering, so directing his
studies that the holy book may be ever before him — tlie
mine which he will ceaselessly explore — the fountain at
which he will daily slake his thirst, — the authority from
which there is no appeal. This will be the distinguish-
ing feature of the instructions imparted in the Theo-
logical Institute.
"The faculty, moreover, rejoice that Christianity is the
revelation of God's grace to the guilty — that it makes
known the way in which He can be just, and the justifier
of him which believeth in Jesus, even by sending his own
Son, and that ' by grace we are saved.' As they review
the historj^ of the past, they note the strivings of men
against these precious truths, because, precious though
they be, they are deeply humbling to human pride ; and
they cannot but observe that even in countries where the
true light now shines, there is, in numerous instances, a
lamentable tendency to substitute 'weak and beggarly
elements ' for the doctrines of the Cross. Therefore, they
hold it to be of immense importance that the rising
ministry should be thoroughly prepared for the work
which they will be called upon to do."
By this time, hopes were revived. The sum of
c£12,000 had been collected or pledged towards the
endowment fund. The attendance was increasing,
and efforts were being made to increase the en-
dowment to <£15,000, but disaster frequently fol-
lows closely upon the heels of prosperity. An
unfortunate investment of college funds was made,
and heavy loss followed. This not only crippled
the finances for the time, and furnished an excuse
for not paying in old subscriptions or pledging
164
new ones, but subsequently resulted in removing
Dr. Crawley from the Institution. By this means,
Dr. Cramp was left again in charge. But not now
of one department as at the first, but of the two.
The Literary and Theological departments both
fell into his care. He was made Chairman of the
society, and afterwards re-appointed President of
the entire Institution, and with marked ability,
and giving entire satisfaction to all concerned, he
continued to discharge the duties of the office till
his resignation in 1869. Some years before, feeling
the burden of years and of work pressing heavily,
he had sought release, and placed his resignation
in the hands of the Board of G-overnors. He was
then about seventy years of age, and used to say,
" when three-score and ten are reached, it is time
to give place to more vigorous men." The Board
however, and in fact all who came in contact with
him in public life, failed to share his feelings. It
was felt that so far as the interests of the Institu-
tution were concerned, there was no need for any
change. The following resolution of the Board,
unanimously passed in June 1866, will show how
his services in the College were regarded : —
" Eesolved that this meeting has learned with deej)
regret the Eev. Dr. Cramp's determination to resign the
Presidency of Acadia College. In his official position
at the head of the college, as a Governor and as connected
with our institutions and the denomination generally, no
language can express too strongly the appreciation in
which he is held. His retirement, viewed from any
standpoint, can be regarded only as a calamity. The
board cannot admit that in any respect Dr. Cramp's age
165
has in the slightest degree impaired his influence or
efficiency."
This resolution, re-afl5.rmed at the meeting of
Convention the following August, and strength-
ened by many letters and personal appeals from
the warmest friends of the Institution, overpower-
ed for the time the President's determination.
He withdrew the resignation and resumed the
duties. He did it, however, with the distinct
understanding that the Board would at once enter
upon the work of securing a successor, to whom
the responsibility could be assigned at no distant
date.
The resolution above, refers to Dr. Cramp's posi-
tion as a member of the Board of Grovernors, and
as connected with the denomination generally.
As a member of the Board, his counsel was regarded
as invaluable. And he was one of the few men
who could look at a question from different stand-
points. As President of the college, and very pro-
gressive in disposition and aims, he could see how
far the institution fell below the requirements of
the age. He knew how loudly the times were
calling for improvements ; for better accommoda-
tions, for apparatus, for books, for the introduction
of other branches of study, and the consequent
establishment of new chairs, etc. He saw all these
things, and no man in his position ever saw them
more clearly or felt them more keenly. But upon
the other hand, he well knew the straitened cir-
cumstances in which the Board was placed. He
could sympathize with the poorer churches, which
166
were called upon to give to the cause of edu-
cation, and the many under-paid pastors through-
out the country, who were expected by word and
deed to lead ofFin denominational enterprises, must
share in the struggle, and be content to grow with
the growth of knowledge and piety in the country.
"With burning desires for rapid development, he
never urged advance beyond the bound of pru-
dence. He was cautious, and would not recom-
mend expenditure without fair prospects of the
means to meet the outlay. Out of his own small
salary, he contributed for some time |400 a year to
the funds of the college, but seldom expended a
dollar of the institution's funds, with a view to
his own convenience or comfort. The Grovernors
therefore learned to rely implicitly upon his
counsel, and he seldom recommended any course
that was not cheerfully adopted. He did not
magnify his own toils or discomforts, but cared
only for the welfare of the interests committed to
his care. When new men were wanted to fill
important positions in the faculty of the college,
or on the teaching staff in the academy, it was
only natural that the judgment of the President
should be relied on. And the passing years have
shown how safe it was thus to rely. With scarcely
an exception, it has been found that better selec-
tions could not have been made. The record of
good scholarship must always be a leading con-
sideration in choosing teachers for an institution
of learning. But Dr. Cramp made this one, and
only one, of the requisites. He regarded good
167
moral principles and a settled conviction in matters
of religion as of equal, if not greater importance
than mere intellectual power. As a result, lie had
always around him a band of workers whose in-
fluence was on the side of truth and righteousness.
Free thinking and sceptical notions never found a
congenial atmosphere in Acadia during the years
of his administration. And with all his other
labors he was prompt and regular in his attendance
in the services of the church. His place was
always filled in the prayer meeting ; and a word of
encouragement, instruction or warning, was sure
to fall from his lips whenever opportunity offered,
or occasion required.
Denominational.
In his unwavering attachment to the denomina-
tion with which he was identified. Dr. Cramp had no
superior, if indeed, he had an equal. The condition
of all the churches was soon before him. Their
history was studied and known. With extensive
knowledge of the leading men of all denominations,
on both sides of the Atlantic, and a very broad
sympathy for the good and the true wherever found,
he was in heart and aim a Baptist. With great
respect for men of talent in all the professions, his
warmest sympathy was ever towards those who
were engaged in preaching the G-ospel. The pas-
tors were to him as the members of his family.
The older men were indeed " the Fathers," and the
younger men were regarded as sons in the faith.
168
In fact, his own family had frequently occasion to
feel that his " care of all the churches " was con-
suming all his care for his home. For when the
former called for thought and care, the latter was
compelled to yield the claim. And so if any
church were involved in a difficulty, Dr. Cramp
was looked to for counsel If any pastor found a
hard point in theology, or was in the fog in some
question of church history, or found himself
plunged into a controversy with some brother of
another faith. Dr. Cramp was expected to furnish
all needed materials for the conflict. His exten-
sive library was always at demand. And it was
fortunate for the one " contending for the faith,"
that the owner of the books generally knew just
where to put his hand upon the right volume and
the passage that was needed. But very few knew
the amount of time that was consumed in this
way, or the cheerfulness with which the time was
given. Books were the Doctor's passion. The
whereabouts of each, his delight, and the ferreting
out a needed proof, sweeter to his taste than
honey.
The Grovernors of the college learned to rely on
his judgment ; the students, on his instruction ;
the pastors, on his sympathy ; the churches on his
counsel ; and both associations and conventions
wonderfully looked to him for guidance in all
undertakings. So much was this the case, that
many came to feel, that a public gathering of the
body for dealing with important questions, would
be very incomplete, if not a failure, unless Dr.
169
Cramp's place was filled and his counsels heard.
His warm regard for the ministers of the de-
nomination continued to the end. He planned
many things for their benefit which never went
beyond his own study, simply because the time of
life was past for giving execution to the kindly
desires of his heart. But all those who studied at
the institutions during his presidency were re-
membered. And his executors, after his decease,
had the pleasure, in obedience to written instruc-
tions, of sending his last recollections of them in
carefully selected and valuable books to each ; or,
at least, that was the design. If any names were
omitted from the list left for guidance, it was an
omission of the memory and not the intention of
the heart. It would not be strange if some were
forgotten. The wonder was that so many were
remembered ; and that the selection in each case
was so thoughtly and judiciously made. Showing
that the teacher had not only remembered the
pupils in a general way, but carried for all the
years intervening, in his own thoughts, the pecu-
liar habits and tastes of each.
But we must return to the history of Acadia
College, in order to pick up a few items to sub-
stantiate this estimate of the late President. The
general inadequacy of funds, the terrible disaster
of '52, the unfortunate investment of funds shortly
after, had a most depressing effect. From 1851 to
1854, there was no graduating class. From six-
teen to twenty students were about all that
could be got together. For various reasons, many
1*70
of these were unable to continue their studies
through the entire course. But meanwhile the
rough work was being done. Confidence, that
" plant of slow growth," was increasing year by
year. The young men who were going out with
only a partial training, were found to be efficient
workers as teachers or as preachers, as merchants
or professional students. It became known that
Acadia College, even in its crippled condition,
and with all its drawbacks, was doing as thor-
ough work as any similar institution in the land.
The one thing that the faculty would not do, in
order to gain numbers, was to lower the stand-
ard of admission or graduate classes for the sake
of effect. Some contended that considering the
state of education in the country, the college
would better meet the wants and do more good by
making the admission easier, and conferring de-
grees on those of smaller attainments. The Presi-
dent of the college took the opposite view. Ad-
vancement rather than retrogression must be the
aim. We must not let the college down to the
schools, but aim to bring the schools up to the
college. Educate, stimulate, and fire our students
with educational zeal. Keep the highest possible
ideal before the minds of the young, and gradually
they will come to appreciate progress and come up
to the requirement. This was the principle acted
upon in the low condition of the college. It was
pressed on the attention of the Grovernors. It was
exemplified in the lessons of the class-room. It
was popularly proclaimed in many an able plat-
171
form address. And the young men who had the
germs of the student nature in them, caught the
spirit of progress, and the results are manifest to-
day in many of the callings of life.
In 1854 there was one graduate, the first since
the appointment of the new President. In 1855,
the Rev. A. W. Sawyer, was appointed to fill the
chair of classics. For four years, he continued
to fill that position with eminent success. The
internal working of the college was now deemed
very satisfactory. The various classes were well
provided for, and the President could give more
attention to theology, his own favourite work.
But if there was a deficiency in any department,
he never hesitated to fill the gap. Except in the
mathematical department, which he n^ver had
occasion to undertake, there was scarcely any study
then pursued in the college in which he did
not at some time, during his presidency, conduct
classes.
In 1855 there was a graduating class of four,
all of whom have been eminently successful as
preachers of the Grospel. One is a highly esteemed
professor of Hebrew etc., in a theological college.
He took his entire classical course, and his first
instruction in Hebrew at Acadia College, much
of it under the instruction of Dr. Cramp, and
every lesson he received only intensified his thirst
and fired his zeal for more.
Much has been said and written upon the
various methods of imparting instruction. Some
contending for one plan and some for another.
172
But the plan, whatever it may be, that fires the
zeal of the student, giving him an intense desire
for knowledge, is the only successful method of
teaching. Inducing habits of observation, strength-
ening the memory, and developing the reasoning
powers are all useful, nay essential, to make a man
able to grapple with the problems of learning or
of life. But the one thing that stands above all
these put together, in order to constitute one a life-
long and successful student, is to enkindle in the
heart a burning and quenchless desire to know.
This was eminently the result of Dr. Cramp's in-
struction. Not that every student who attended
his classes was so fired ; but that a fair proportion
of them were, became manifestly evident by the
courses pursued and the success attained in after
life. Although some of them, perhaps, never knew
where they derived their inspiration.
In 1856 there was a graduating class of three.
All of whom became efiicient and successful men.
One as a physician, who died early. One as a
preacher, and one as a teacher and afterwards as
inspector of schools.
In 1857, there was only one graduate who be-
came a successful j)reacher of the G-ospel.
(1). The small number of graduates during these
years may be accounted for in various ways. The
standard for matriculation had been raised. So
that entering college was becoming more difficult
year by year. The tests of scholarship were being
more vigorously applied after entering. So that
those who valued play more than work, found
173
themselves falling below the standard, and turned
off to other pursuits. "While many, no doubt,
who were valuable students, were compelled from
various causes, to relinquish their studies and en-
gage in the duties of life. And these were greatly
helped by even the partial course which they
took.
(2). The college had not yet risen above the de-
pressing effects of the loss of funds by the injudi-
cious investment already referred to. This not
only took away the means which were needed for
repairing and improving the buildings, and thus
increasing the comforts of the students, but it re-
sulted in giving things generally the appearance
of decay. For many, attracted by the reputation
of the college abroad, when they came to make
arrangements for their sons, judging from the ex-
ternal appearance, returned disheartened, and sent
their sons elsewhere, or perhaps worse, kept them
at home. It is difficult, now that things are differ-
ent, to realize how keenly all the teachers, but es-
pecially the President, felt this, and how he suffered
under it year after year. Nothing but his own
buoyant and hopeful disposition, together with his
active and ever busy life, prevented him from
sinking beneath these depressing influences.
The loss of money had also alienated some for-
mer friends. They, of course, would have coun-
selled differently. And so would everybody, after
the mistake was discovered. It is so easy to see
that the tree is bad, when the bitter fruit is eaten.
Not always quite so easy when the tree is being
174
planted. It is much safer to give the probabilities
of to-morrow's weather alter to-morrow has come.
But, unfortunately, there is a class who always
know what is right and safe, although that
knowledge is most loudly proclaimed after the
result of the wrong step is manifest. There were
many such in the days to which we refer. Their
declarations of the want of prudence and business
capacity, upon the part of the college authorities,
not only obstructed the agents in collecting funds
but kept alive many weak prejudices and hindered
students from coming. All of which was very
annoying and disheartening to those who knew
the possibilities of the school, and set their hearts
upon making it worthy of the devoted men who
had founded it, and the denomination, with whose
growth and prosperity it was so intimately con-
nected. But, inspired by the indefatigable energy
and hopeful spirit of the President, they worked
on in faith and prayer, and finally, saw the old
prejudices giving way, and new friends coming
forward to help bear the burdens.
A very wrong estimate, however, of the real
value of the work done at Acadia during the first
five years of Dr. Cramp's presidency would be
made, were the graduates only to be reckoned.
The large majority of those seeking instruction at
Horton, in those days, both in academy and college,
were young men who did not plan to go through
the entire course. Some preparing for business
pursuits. Some for the work of teachers in the
common schools. Some to get enough knowledge
175
of science and classics to enter upon professional
studies, and many that they mig-ht better under-
stand the Gospel of Christ, and how to make it
known. And it would not be difficult to select
many from among these, whose success in all the
pursuits and professions of life has been so great,
that some would say, a partial course student
may succeed as well as one who has taken the
full course. So he may, if he has more in him to
begin with. Otherwise, he may not.
In 1858, there was a graduating class of six, one
of whom became the President of a theological
institute in the United States, and professor of
theology and Biblical interpretation in the same.
One occupies a prominent position as a judge in
the Supreme Court of N.S., his native province.
Almost all the members of the entire class have
distinguished themselves as men of rare ability.
At this time, the college was largely attended,
and everything seemed in a most hopeful condi-
tion, so far as spirit, energy and work were con-
cerned. But the Board and the President were
overburdened with anxiety.
"We quote here from the Yaughan Prize Essay:—
" The internal history of the institution was eminently
satisfactory. The academy had over 100 students ; and
with classes of eleven, twelve and fifteen successively
matriculating, and such scholarly instructors as Dr.
Cramp, Professor Sawyer and Professor Stuart, the col-
lege was, in everything but income, far in advance, at
that time, of any other in the Lower Provinces. The
unfortunate investment already referred to, seriously
176
crippled the resources. About £8,000 of endowment was
left, and this would barely support two professors.
Various attempts were nnade to increase this ainount, but
with vej-y discouraging results."
It may be added here that, at this time, profes-
sors' salaries, as the institution was then being
conducted, were by no means the only urgent
claim. Repair of buildings, apparatus, books, in-
creased accommodations, were all loudly called
for by the general advancement of education in
the country.
" A crisis came in 1858, the most serious one in the
whole history of the institutions. For once during the
financial struggle, the friends of Acadia lost heart. All
sources of additional income seemed dried up. To carry
on the college with a reduced number of instructors,
would be suicidal ; to retain the present staff, with no
prospect of paying their salaries, would be dishonest ;
there seemed, therefore, no alternative for the governors,
but to take the decisive step of notifying the Faculty
that, after January, 1858, their services would not be re-
quired."
Various reflections naturally spring up here. (1.)
As to the source of this action. (2.) As to the wis-
dom of it. (8.) As to the result.
1. The source. — The President was ex-qfficio
member of the Board. Action was generally taken
upon his advice, never in opposition to it. Then
the President either first recommended this course,
or at the least heartily agreed with it when pro-
posed by some other member. What he had passed
through, before he could have reached that point,
1^7
was known only to himself and Grod. The G-over-
nors did not know, the students never suspected
it, his own family were not aware. For he was
so active and busy and cheerful, that many thought
all was prosperity. And yet here, already far
advanced in years, and therefore too late to set out
on some new course, his position was about slip-
ping away from him, and the work to which he
had consecrated, all his energies and talents, nay
his life, was about to fail. To be placed in a
similar position may be needful in order fully to
realize what it cost Dr. Cramp to recommend or
agree to such a measure.
2. The wisdom of the action taken. — If it were
the only course, the wisdom can hardly be doubted.
But there were others. To go on with a reduced
staff would have been one. To borrow money,
another. And still a third remained ; to use up
the endowment fund as far as it would go, and
let the future provide for itself. The first would
have been giving up all the advantages gained,
and going back twenty years. The second would
have been entailing burdens which the next
twenty years might not remove. The third would
have been thoroughly to destroy all confidence in
college endowments and thus dry up perhaps for-
ever all sources of future growth. Then with the
prospect of scattering the professors, and upsetting
the plans of students, some midway in the course,
and others preparing to enter, the terrible resolve
was reached, the doors of the college must be
closed. And we can easily imagine that when
12
1Y8
those grave men, after long* deliberation, were re-
quired by the chairman of the meeting, probably
Dr. Cramp himself, to cast their votes, it was with
trembling of hearts, and great misgiving, whether
they were not about, by this action, to sacrifice the
growth and prosperity of the things which lay so
near their hearts. And we do not refer here to
Acadia College, simply as a seat of learning, but
to those principles of personal piety, the rights of
the individual conscience in things sacred, the
supremacy of the law of the Lord, religious liberty
and equality, which the rising ministry could
better defend, with intellects fully trained, under
the warming and restraining influences of a school
not supported and governed by the State, but the
outcome of earnest prayers, and managed by men
of deep piety. This was the peril that seemed
pending, and a stern necessity must have urged
them on before they could hazard it. But the
vote was taken, and we presume, that the notice
implied in the resolution was forwarded to the
parties concerned.
3. The result of the action. — They were perhaps
what many hoped, perhaps what some foresaw.
The churches were awakened. The appeals for
funds had become an old story. The college had
lived so long with inadequate support, that many
supposed it would continue to do this. That it
should proclaim itself closed, was a new and start-
ling disclosure. The writer will not soon forget
the consternation manifested in Liverpool N. S.,
where he was located at the time. Dr. Cramp had
1Y9
been there a few years before, in the interests of
the endowment fund. He had been very suc-
cessful, and made many warm friends both for
himself personally and for the college. Many
scholarships had been taken, and smaller sums
had been given. Nobly they had contributed and
about all was done that could have been expected.
When the report of the terrible resolve to close
the college reached the town, the pastor made no
move, and but few comments. He knew not what
to say, and far less what to do. But the members
of the church would not let the matter rest. One
especially, long since gone to his reward, became
terribly restless. "I got no sleep last night," he
said one morning. "What was the matter?"
" Why this strange news from Wolfville. This
cannot be. It must not be. They surely do not
mean it." "It looks bad," said the pastor, "but I
suppose there was no alternative." " Alterna-
tive ! " he shouted ; " there is, we must go to
work and stop this calamity." And very soon a
paper was drawn up, handsomely headed, pledg-
ing the Liverpool church for a large sum to be
paid in yearly instalments for a number of years.
Similar results followed in other places. Vigor-
ous protests came in from all quarters. A special
meeting of convention was called, and the hum-
bled Grovernors were compelled to go back on
their own action, and rescind the obnoxious reso-
lution. This was the result. It was a fearful
experiment, and might have turned otherwise.
And probably would, had not the Spirit of God
180
moved in many hearts, and a Divine voice said to
the people. " G-o forward."
The college moved on with unabated vigor.
The President, relieved from a great load of anxiety,
but not from any of his work or responsibility,
addressed himself with new heart to the many
duties of his office. Many of his lectures about,
and after this season, were masterpieces, both in
thought and delivery. His manner of conducting
anniversary exercises was unique, and a great
treat to spectators. Addresses to graduating
classes were replete with wisdom, and full of
paternal affection. " The right man, and surely in
the right place," was the utterance of many as
they walked out from the exercises.
In 1859, there was a graduating class of four.
One became an efficient physician ; one an able
lawyer ; one a mathematical professor, and one a
teacher.
The class of 1860 numbered eleven. The dis-
tinguished ability of this class, has been so fre-
quently referred to, and is so well known, that
further comment is needless. It is sufficient to
say, that almost every profession has been en-
riched, and every good cause promoted by their
endeavours. And most of them are still reflect-
ing honor on their Alma Mater.
In 1861 there was only one graduate, who, how-
ever, became a very zealous preacher of the Grospel,
and has been honored by winning many souls to
Christ. His entire theological training was under
the instruction of Dr. Cramp. And judging from
181
the positions he has filled in the ministry, and the
success of his work, we should judge that the
theolog-ical course at Acadia College, with all the
other duties pressing upon the President, was no
mean preparation. Although the graduate of '61
was by no means the only one who went from
Acadia direct to the onerous duties of the pastorate,
and succeeded therein. There were many of
them, and the churches have not suffered under
their ministrations.
In 1862, there were ten graduates, which class
has produced merchants, doctors, pastors and an
editor. All of them among the first in ability and
usefulness.
1863 turned out only two, but one became a
physician in the United States, and one a leading
lawyer in Halifax, N. S,
In 1864, there were only two. One became a
lawyer of marked ability, and one a teacher.
The class of 1865, numbered sixteen, although
there were nearly double that number, when the
class entered college.
Men of marked ability, almost all of them.
Quoting from a very interesting sketch of the
class, by one of the number : —
" An important innovation in the internal work of the
college was the introduction of studies, additional to the
regular course, for those students of first-class standing,
who desired to take the extra work. Of my class, five
read the additional classics required, in 1863, '64 and '65,
and the last named individual happened to be the first
student who received from the President (Dr. Cramp) an
182
honor certificate, when they were given for the first time
at the anniverc<ary in June, 1864.
Among the events worthy to be recorded, the
same report states : —
" In the history of the college and in which we (the
class) were prominent actors, was the addition of Dr.
Cramp's portrait to those of " the Fathers " which then
adorned the walls of the college library. "Wishing to
give tangible expression to their respect for the vener-
able President, the students, iu their associated capacity
as members of the Acadia Athenseum, obtained the Doc-
tor's consent to have his portrait painted. An excellent
picture was at length obtained, the work of Mr. T. C.
Doane, of Montreal. The expenses were defrayed by
contributions from the undergraduates, and from many
graduates who had studied under Dr. Cramp's instruction,
as well as from others who generously assisted."
It was, of course, designed as a mark of respect
to the President, and was very highly appreciated
by him. But it reflects equal honor upon the stu-
dents who erected it.
The addresses to the graduating classes were
always appropriate, sometimes beautiful and elo-
quent. Only one of these has been found. It
happens to be the one addressed to this class, of
1865. It is by no means one of the best. But it
will probably call up some pleasing reminiscences
to some of the members of that class, and also fur-
nish a sample of Dr. Cramp's manner of closing his
instructions to the various classes.
183
"Address to the Graduating Class, at the Anniver-
sary, June 6, 1865.
" The long toil is over ! Your four year's course is
ended. You have been nestling together for the appointed
time under the wings of your Alma Mater, and now you
are about to take your flight, not indeed to unknown
lands, but to engage in untried duties. We cherish the
hope that you will be found much better fitted for those
duties, in consequence of your residence here, than if you
had contented yourselves with a meagre and insufiicient
preparation. Money spent in mental culture is like the
bread cast upon the waters which is ' seen after many
days.'
"We live, gentlemen, in a very remarkable period.
The domains of knowledge are extending every day, and
new acquisitions are constantly made. Scarcely a year
passes without the inauguration of some society for the
purpose of pushing inquiries in unexplored regions.
Sciences, whose very names were unknown fifty years
ago, are cultivated with all the ardour of youthful zeal,
and already yield abundant harvests. Things knowable
are divided and subdivided, and so parcelled out as to
favour minuteness of investigation and accuracy of re-
sults.
" Novel applications of principles and facts in the
various branches of art, whether useful or ornamental,
attest the growing ingenuity of the age.
" Conclusions, which, to those who preceded us, ap-
peared to be firmly established, have been first doubted
and then dismissed to oblivion ; and new laws, or rather
laws as old as the creation, but which have been hitherto
hidden from human view, have been bi'ought to light.
So vast and boundless, so infinitely diversified is the
prospect, that the mind is bewildered by the marvellous
184
complexity of the phenomena, and the untold numbers
of objects that present themselves for review and exam-
ination.
"it is true that only a small minority, even of the
well-instructed, can engage in critical pursuits, or track'
science to its remote and unfrequented haunts. Never-
theless, the influences of advancing knowledge cannot
but be generally felt ; wherever it plants its foot, the tone
of intelligence will be elevated ; honourable ambition
will be excited ; and there will be an up-rising of society
to a higher-level.
" In this march of improvement, Nova Scotia has taken
her part, and shares in the advantages.
" You will find a very different state of things from
that which existed when this institution first began to
send forth her sons. There is fav more knowledge in the
country, and it is more widely diffused. Efficient schoo-l-
teaching has borne good fruit.
" The colporteur has circulated useful literature. The
educated men of '65 know more, and know it better than
the men of '45. Youthful intellect is subjected to more
vigorous training, and demands a supply of mental ali-
ment adapted to the altered circumstances.
" The improving process is still going on, exerting
everywhere a healthy influence, and j^romising to leaven
the whole mass.
*' We are doing what we can to keep pace with the
times. We shall do it better, especially with regard to
the scientific and theological departments, when the
people furnish us with the means, as we cannot but be-
lieve that they will, when they see the necessity of the
case, and participate in the ambition to excel, which is
gradually pervading the public mind.
" I call your attention to these facts for the purpose of
impressing your minds with the importance of aiming at
185
continual progress. This will be required of you, what-
ever course of life you maj^ adopt.
" As Alumnffi of Acadia College, you will be expected
to stand in the first rank of the intelligent, and you will
find that it will task your utmost energies to maintain
that position. You will act accordingly. Studies will be
reviewed. Inquiries that have been commenced here
will be continued. You will ajjply your powers to the
further and more extended consideration of many topics,
which have been, as yet, only glanced at, and await the
application of matured thought. You will preserve men-
tal health and strength by appropriate exercise. 'You
will 'forget the things that are behind,' and reaching
forth unto those things which are before, press towards
the mark."
Lest we occupy too much space with these de-
tails, we must group from 1866 to 1869, which
brings us to the close of Dr. Cramp's official con-
nectiou with the institutions.
There were twenty-two graduates.. These, as
well as those before them, have engaged in
the various pursuits of life. But nearly all have
devoted themselves to the work of the ministry,
to teaching, or to one of the "learned professions,"
so called, and have distinguished themselves in
their several pursuits. And taking them all to-
gether, from 1851 to 1869, a period of nearly
twenty years, and including with them an equal
number who, for various reasons, were compelled
to be satisfied with only a partial course, we may
venture to invite comparison with any other in-
stitution on this Continent. Not as to actual, but
comparative results. We do not claim that Aca-
186
dia's sons have reached as high as the highest.
How could they, under all the depressing in-
fluences, with which many of them have been
surrounded ? But we claim that as large a pro-
portion of them have become able, honorable, and
efficient workers in their various spheres, as any
other college can claim.
The result may be confidently appealed to, in
proof of the wisdom of the late President in stand-
ing :firm for denominational colleges. Many efforts
were made during the time of his presidency to
swamp the college, and swallow it up in some
imposing provincial university. All the argu-
ments and eloquence of some of the ablest men in
the Provinces have been employed in this behalf.
The pulpit and the press have been employed.
Legislators and governments have sympathized
with this movement. The arguments employed
often seemed unanswerable. A large, full, and
well equipped college, with ample provision for
every branch of learning, surely is better than a
poor and feeble one. And with the long and al-
most ineffectual struggles Acadia was making,
there were even not a few of her own friends w^ho
sometimes doubted the wisdom of the course. If
with less cost and less care, our young men can get
all the learning they need, why continue to bear
burdens too heavy for us ? And many could see no
reason. And there were times when the danger
of yielding the point was very great. But Dr.
Cramp continued firm. He clearly saw that edu-
cation without religion might be a curse to the
187
chuTch, and of doubtful good to the world. Edu-
cation and religion must go hand in hand, in
order to work out the best results in either depart-
ment.
Shortly after Dalhousie College was revived in
1865, or thereabouts, and all denominations were
so kindly invited to give up their little schools and
establish chairs in Dalhousie, and thus become
the joint owners of one grand establishment, a
number of gentlemen from Halifax attended the
anniversary exercises of Acadia College in Wolf-
ville. The day was fine, and a great gathering as
usual on such occasions was present. The " Alumni
Dinner " had come at that time, to form an impor-
tant part of the day's exercises. The after-dinner
speeches were looked forward to with great in-
terest. For the leaders of both political parties
were there, and it was suspected that there would
be a measuring of swords on some subject. Poli-
tical feelings were running high, and education
had been a fruitful topic for discussion. The toast,
'• Our Sister Colleges," opened the way. The then
leader of the G-overnment, than whom no man
was supposed to be a better authority on all mat-
ters pertaining to general prosperity, but especially
in reference to education, saw, or thought he saw
an opportunity which might not occur again very
soon. He embraced it. If at the very heart of
Acadia, in the presence of her warmest friends, her
professors and students, the citadel could be taken,
then the victory was secured. So the confederation
of all the sister colleges was the theme. If this
188
small oue could gather arouud it such enthusiasm,
aud exhibit such results, what may we not expect
to see when the forces of them all are centred into
one ? It was made to appear as very grand. It re-
quired a bold man to take up the position. For
the views of the denomination were already before
the public in many an able article from the pen of
the President and others. But there was a bold
man there. He had already fought and won many
a hard battle, and the grandeur of the object
aimed at was sufficient to drive away all fear.
And eloquence worthy of the occasion was called
forth. The one, unsectarian, grand central uni-
versity of the Provinces, if not of the Dominion,
was pictured out in glowing colours. Such a
noble rivalry would thus be enkindled among
all the students and their teachers, as had been
unknown hitherto. G-reat progress and prosperity
the necessary result. " And if not," asked the
orator, " why not ? Who can show any just
reason why this should not be an accomplished
fact in the very near future ?"
He paused for a reply. Many thought that there
was no reply to be given. Acadia is as good as
closed. She may continue to do the work of an
academy, and then forward her students to the
central university, and perhaps give some assist-
ance to a few ministerial students, but her Arts
course is now nearly ended.
The President of the college, however, was not
thoroughly convinced. He rose to ofter a few ob-
servations. Aud never perhaps did an audience
^ 189
look with more interest, and in some cases, intense
anxiety to see if anything could be oifered, as an
offset to the powerful arguments advanced. The
arguments were reviewed. The false data of one
overturned ; the doubtful conclusions of another
exposed ; the diflB.culties here and the insuperable
obstacles there ; the pledges made to the people in
asking them to help to endow ; the hopes and ex-
pectations centering in Acadia ; the object in view
when, by the fathers, her foundations were laid ;
the sympathies and prayers which had gathered
around her, and through which she still expected
to live and to grow, and concluded a most power-
ful exposure of this Utopian scheme by saving,
" Whoever may favor the merging of denomina-
tional colleges into one grand central provincial
university, — ' My voice is still for war.' "
The Halifax friends went home gratified with
the kind reception given them in Wolfville, but
saying, " The time is not yet ripe for college con-
federation." And the prospect has not matured
much since. Nor is it likely to, so long as the views
entertained by Dr. Cramp, and so ably expounded
on that occasion continue to prevail, viz., religion
and education, the two elevating forces of the
world, but only when they join hands and walk
together, can they meet the world's great need —
enlightenment and redemption.
From the records of the action of the Board of
Grovernors of Acadia College, April 21, 1866, we
take the following : —
190
"The Secretary read a communication from the Eev.
J. M, Cramp D.D., tendering his resignation of the office
of President of the college.
" This resignation was accepted. Voted that the Eev.
D. M. Walton, and the Secretary, be a committee, to pre-
pare and present at the next meeting, a resolution ex-
pressive of the sentiments of the Board, on the occasion
of the resignation of the Rev. Dr. Cramp."
At the next meeting the following resolution
was presented and passed unanimously : —
•' Whereas the Rev. J, M. Cramp, D.D., from a desire
of getting relieved from his onerous duties and responsi-
bilities as President of Acadia College, has tendered his
resignation of that office.
"Therefore resolved that this Board do not feel that it
would consist with their deep regard for Dr. Cramp, and
heir warm and undiminished interest in his personal
comfort, longer to press upon him at his present advanced
time of life, a further resumjjtion of those duties and
responsibilities.
" And be it furthei- resolved, that this Board, in reluc-
tantly accepting Dr. Cramp's resignation^ do express,
and hereby permanently record their high and grateful
appreciation of his long and faithful labors as a president
and professor of the college, and a minister of the denom-
ination, and the marked success which has crowned
those labors.
" Also that they expi-ess the great satisfaction with
which they have learned, that while asking to be relieved
from his present labors, he has been pleased to couple his
resignation with an expressed willingness to continue in
office until his successor is appointed and enters upon his
duties.
" Voted that the above resolution be accepted as the
191
expression of this body. That it be recorded, and that a
copy thereof be forwarded to the Eev. J. M. Cramp,
D.D."
In accordance with this action, he continued to
discharge the duties of the office until his successor
was appointed and duly installed.
His interest in the work did not cease with this
retirement. For at almost every meeting of the
Board of aovernors for some years after this, he is
reported in the records as being present and aiding
in all the deliberations oi the body.
The following is an expression of regard from
the Hon. Dr. Parker of Halifax, one of the most
efficient members of the Board of Governors during
Dr. Cramp's connection with the college :—
"My first meetiug with Dr. Cramp was on the occa-
sion of his preaching in Granville Street Church, a short
time before he entered upon his duties at Acadia College.
I was impressed both with the matter of the sermon, and
with the manner in which it was delivered. The funda-
mental truths of the Gospel were proclaimed with ability,
and power, and I left the house, feeling that a scholarly
man, an experienced Christian, and an able preacher,
was about to be added to the Baptist ministry of oui-
Province.
'' Immediately after my connection with the Denomin-
ation, I became interested in our educational institutions
at Wolfville, and subsequently, was placed on the Board
of Governors of the college. Here my relations with Dr.
Cramp were, at first, of a business character, but I very
soon learned to appreciate his ability and worth, and to
entertain a warm friendship for him, which continued
until his removal by death.
192
"The work in which he was engaged, and to which
he was devoting the energies of the best years of life,
giving to our institutions his matured thought, his
time, and his money, was the connecting link that
brought us very often together, and cemented our
fi'iendship. During the earlier years of his connexion
with Acadia, his trials were many. Apart from those
incidental to the educational and general management
of a college, inadequately equipped with a teaching
staff, there were financial difficulties almost continu-
ally present, and few were the men, who, surrounded
by such circumstances as he had to contend with,
would have continued the struggle and retained the posi-
tion. Yet, through all and every difficulty, while others
were depressed, faint-hearted, and often lacking in faith,
he was buoyant, cheerful, fertile in resources, and always
relying faithfully on the strong arm of the Lord.
" When he announced, by telegram, to his brethren in
Halifax, that his faithful colleague and ' right-hand man'
Isaac Chipman, was buried beneath the waters of Minas
Basin, our hearts failed us, and our first thoughts were :
can our institutions survive the shock ? Will Dr. Cramp
not be disheartened, and relinquish the contest? But
no such thoughts found a lodgment in his mind. His
motto had been and was, ' Trust ye in the Lord forever.'
He trusted, laboured, and conquered ; and as a result of
his ' faith and works,' Acadia lives, and will continue to
live, sending forth from her halls, young men mentally
qualified to fight the battle of life ; many of them, to con-
tend against the common enemy of mankind — to fight
the battles of the Lord — thus imparting annually, addi-
tional vigor and strength to our denomination, and in-
creased stability to the moral and social structure of our
countiy.
" His versatility of talent was only equalled by his
193
untiring industry. The governing board ever found him,
although always burdened with work, ready and willing
to assume additional duties, when emergencies arose, and
the necessities of the hour called for such extra labor."
" Notwithstanding his many and varied engagements
as professor, president, and ex-officio Governor of the
college, he made the time to perform the arduous duties
of corresponding secretary of the Foreign Missionary
Board of the Convention of the Maritime Provinces —
and dearly he loved the work — for he was imbued with
the missionary spirit, and with the desire that God's
Word should be carried, by those, whom, he himself had
educated, to the far-off lands of the heathen.
"His facile pen was constantly engaged in advancing
our educational, denominational, and general interests ;
and when necessary, in defending and upholding our doc-
trinal views — as Baptists.
" The familiar initials ' J. M. C were noticed in the
Christian Messenger with great frequency, and I am free
to say that the subjects then discussed by him, always
attracted marked attention, and the articles of no corres-
pondent of that denominational journal were more gladly
welcomed by its readers than those which emanated
from his pen.
"When physically able, his familiar face was always
seen at our associations and conventions, where, as the
head of our most important organization (Acadia College)
and as the result of his ability and practical experience,
he very early came to be acknowledged a leader in all
departments of our denominational work.
" With voice and pen he was always ready to aid the
cause of temperance, and never lost an opportunity of
assisting its advancement. In this all-important moral
reform, also, he became an active leader. Few men's
minds were stored as his was with historic facte, whether
13
194
these had relation to Biblical, ancient or modern secular
history, or to the origin and growth of the ditferent de-
nominations of the world. Hence his companionshi])
was additionally" interesting to those who were fortunate
enough to claim him as a friend.
" His work, entitled ' Baptist History' has had a wide
circulation, and will long keep his name prominently
before our denomination.
" Let me briefly narrate an incident which will show
how highl}' it is appreciated by those who dwell beyond
our holders :
" Eeturning from Western Canada a dozen or more
years ago, I spent a Sunday in Albany, the capital of
New York State, and by accident was directed to the
church then jjresided over by Dr. Lorimer. Alter the
morning service, I had some conversation with him, and
on learning that I was from Xova Scotia, he asked if I
knew Dr. Ci amp, to which question I replied affirma-
tively, when he continued in words to this eifect : ' What
a grand work his " Baptist History" is ! It should be in
the house of every Baptist family. So highly do I, and
my church value it, that we have supplied our colporteur
or colporteurs with two hundred volumes, that it may
be spread over this section of our land, and be made the
means of educating our people in the history, and prin-
ciples of our denomination.'
" Dr. Cramp has, by precept and example, left his im-
jjress on the minds and lives of a large number of young-
men, who were educated mentally and spiritually, under
his supervision. These, or many of them, went forth
from him, into the world, bearing in mind, and in their
hearts, his teachings. Numbers of them engaged in se-
cular occupations ; happily many more went throughout
our own country, and to other lands, to preach the Gospel
to their fellowmen, in heathen as well as in Christian
195
communities; but wherever they went, they carried with
them this 'impress,' and also, a great respect, and admi-
ration for the life and character of him who had been
their instructor and friend. Those who, like myself,
were present, year after year, at the anniversary meet-
ings of Acadia, will long remember his addresses to the
graduating classes. They were so happily expressed,
with pathos and power so appropriate to the occasions,
and the circumstances, that I feel assured none could
have listened to them without emotion. Let me say in
conclusion, that Dr. Cramp came to us — I speak of the
Denomination — a stranger, in whom very many of our
number had no special interest, but as time passed, and
we were brought into contact with him, his genial, com-
panionable nature, his mental and moral characteristics,
his love for our people, his long years of able and untiring
labor for our best interests, together with his great gen-
erosity in contributing annually four hundred dollars
($400) to the funds of the college, from a very limited
professional income connected with the presidential office,
gave him a home in the denominational heart, and now
that he has gone from us, we, who were his contempora-
ries, and in a limited sense, his co-laborers, as we think of
him and the great work he accomplished, will ever hold
his memory in affectionate remembrance.
"D. McN. Parker."
"Address from the Alumni of Acadia College.
" To the Rev. Dr. J. M. Cramp, D.D.
" The Alumni of Acadia College cannot allow the oc-
casion of your resignation of the Presidency of that
University to pass without attempting to express some
of the feelings which they entertain towards you.
" Many of us have been your students — indeed most of
196
us ; for, of the 108 students who have graduated since
1838, when the college was founded, eighty-three have
graduated since you commenced your labours in the
Institution.
" But all of us, as well those who were before your
time, as those who had the privilege of attending your
lecture-room, join in this expression of regard.
" Acadia College was fortunate in securing the services
of one who brought to his work a large mind and attain-
ments and ripe experience, and one whose fame as a
historian, and a scholar had gone before him.
" We review with gratitude your eighteen years of
abundant and useful labour. In the college, we all know
with what unceasing activity and ability you have toiled,
how you have fired lagging students with enthusiasm,
and engendered love of study and thirst for knowledge,
and with what pleasure and kindness you have dealt with
the rough materials put into your hands.
" Be assured the Alumni speak from the heart, when
they thank you for all the past.
" We thank you too, for the part you have taken out-
side of the college. In many of the great questions which
have come up for discussion and settlement, you have
contributed your wisdom in guiding public opinion to
right issues.
" You have united the parts of a professor and a public
man in happy proportion. You have not allowed your
interest in public matters to interfere with the important
duties which your profession required, nor, on the other
hand, have you permitted your devotion to literary pur-
suits, to so engross your energies as to keep you aloof
from the discussion of the important topics of the day.
" In thus uniting the public, with the professional,
you have done inestimable service to all, and have con-
tributed much to foster sympathy between the people
191
and the college. With such presidency as yours, the
college could never become isolated or alienated from the
affections of the people.
" Though now resigning your presidency, we sincerely
hope that during the years which may yet be given you,
you may be permitted to aid in still further promoting
the welfare of the institution, which has so grown in
favor and efficiency under your hand.
"On behalf of the Alumni,
" E. M. Saunders, President.
" Edwin D. King, Secretary."
Comparison of the condition of the institution
at Wolfville, and also the state of the denomina-
tion in 1851, with the present, would afford some
idea of the benefits arising from the efforts of these
years. That education alone accomplished these
results we do not claim. But all acknowledge
that among the factors of progress, Acadia Col-
lege stands in the first rank. That all the good
accomplished by the college was due to its late
president, we do not claim. He was only one
among a host of intelligent men, who clearly saw
their duty and were willing to do it. But if, on
reviewing the past, and rejoicing in the signs
of growth and the indications of a prosperous
future, he should have said, " Et quorum pars magna
fui,^^ there were few indeed who would have
challenged the justice of the claim.
The following addresses, delivered at the memo-
rial service in Wolfville, May 31st, 1883, are
worthy of perusal in this connection. Other valu-
able addresses were delivered at the same time.
198
all of which are well worth preserving. These
are selected as representations of the whole. One
from the successor of Dr. Cramp in the presidency
of the college, the other from one who, for the
four years of college life, occupied the position of
pupil, and so well improved his opportunities of
culture, that he has been, and is still, filling a
large place in the education of the Dominion of
Canada.
The Life and Laboes of Dr. Cramp.
Rev. A. W. Sawyer, D.D., President of Acadia
College, delivered the principal address of the
evening as follows : —
"-Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Associated Alumni: —
"Your invitation to me to bear a part in the duties of
this hour, meets a response of mingled hesitancy and
willingness. These feelings arise from the nature of the
event which has led to these services. It is remarkable
that so large a number of those who have held the place
of teachers in Horton Academy, or in Acadia College, are
yet numbei-ed among the living, and it is still more re-
markable that, with a single exception, so far as I can
learn, no one of those who have been thus connected, has
died while in the relation of active service in either of
these institutions. The two first teachers in the college
are still living and the weight of their years seems to lie
lightly on them. Of those who at later years have re-
ceived appointments as instructors in the College, so far
as is now known, all are still alive, excepting three. One
of these, after he had become connected with another
college, was removed by death not a long time since,
199
while in the midst of a useful and honorable career. It
is now thirty years, lacking a few days, since the first of
these three was swept from life by that memorable
calamity on the Basin of Minas. So deep was the afflic-
tion that then fell on some of the friends of this college,
that they have scarcely been able at any time .since to
look out on that expanse of water, even when gleaming
in its brightest hues, without feeling that a shade was
over it. He, who a few days after that catastrophe stood
in the presence of a stricken aitdience in this village to
speak of the loss and its lessons, has been, after the lapse
of 80 long a time, the third to be summoned away. The
infrequency, therefore, of such an event as this, which
has been the occasion of your meeting at the present
time, might well lead one who is to take part in these
services, to approach them with some degree of solicitude.
Another reason for hesitancy appears in the condition of
the minds of my audience. Your estimation of the worth
of him whose name is foremost in your memories at this
hour, your judgment of his character as a man, his worth
as a friend, his usefulness as a teacher, his service of the
public in every good cause, his devotion to the institution
of learning in which you are so much interested, will
naturally be taken as the measure of your expectations
in regard to what should be said at such a time. If one
must till the measure of such expectations or come short
of his duty in speaking, then it becomes me to be silent.
But it is evident that while you have assembled in part
to hear something concerning the chief characteristics
and ruling principles of an excellent life, nevertheless
your presence here and the distinctness of the appoint-
ments of this hour are the most emphatic expression of
respect and affection for him whose life and character
we are to contemplate. We come together in the exej--
cise of common sympathies. It is because the tribute
200
which we bring to the worth of a departed friend is the
product of the heart as well as of the mind, that I am
encouraged to feel that my words will not be out of har-
mony with the conceptions and feelings of the audience.
A cherished memory is embalmed in the sensibilities of
the heart. These will always respond to any genuine
expression of esteem or affection for one whose memory
is thus cherished. As we have these common sympa-
thies, I shall trust that I have one qualification for
speaking to you of him whom we have all so long known
and honored.
•'John Mockett Cramp was born in St. Peter's, Isle of
Thanet, July 25, 1*796. His father was pastor of the
Baptist Church in that place. The son received such
privileges of education in his earlier years as the locality
permitted. On the 13th of September, 1812, he was
received by baptism into the membership of the church
of which his father was pastor. He soon after began to
make public addresses on religious subjects. In Septem-
ber 1814, being then eighteen years of age, he entered
Stepney, now known as Regent's Park College. After
the completion of his studies there, he was ordained as
pastor of the Dean Street Baptist Church, in London,
May 7, 1818. He subsequently returned to his native
place and was associated with his father in pastoral labors
for thirteen years. In 1840, he became pastor of a church
in Hastings, Sussex, being then in the matux-ity of his
strength and displaying marked abilities as a preacher.
A large amount of valuable work in the department of
authorship had been accomplished by him before this
time of his life. In 1844, an invitation was given him to
accept the Presidency of the Baptist College in Montreal,
from which the Eev. Dr. Davies had been called the year
before to the Presidency of Stepney College. For several
years Dr. Cramp discharged the duties of this new post-
201
tion in an efficient and honorable mannei*, laboring in the
midst of adverse circumstances to make the College
permanently successful. After a time, the financial
difficulties seeming to be insuperable, he withdrew, and
in February of 1851 ho accepted an invitation to the
Presidency of Acadia College. In his letter of acceptance
he says : ' Henceforth I devote myself to the cause of
education and religion in Nova Scotia, especially in con-
nection with Acadia College.' To his fidelity to this
devotion, the succeeding years bore ample testimony.
His laborious and useful services in this College continued
till June, 1869. After his retirement from official re-
sponsibilities and service in connection with the College,
he continued to reside in Wolfville, in the midst of fami-
liar scenes and surrounded by friends, occupied as his
strength would permit in literary pursuits, and watching
with hearty interest the events of the passing days, to
note the efl:ect they might have on the moral and reli-
gious condition of men, until his peaceful departure from
this life on the sixth of December, 1881, in the 86th
year of his age. Thus briefly are the more noticeable
events of a long and useful life related.
"But it is hardly necessary to remark that the life of a
true man is not measured or described by such a recital
of facts. It is a development, a growth, marked by its
own principles, and deserving of commendation according
to the nature of these principles.
" It will be my purpose to lead you to consider some-
what the spirit and meaning of this long and active life,
endeavouring at the same time, as far as possible, to
abstain from trespassing on the special topics which
have been assigned to others who are expected to address
you.
" It is somewhat difficult to bring clearly before our
view the condition of life in England, at the close of the
202
last, and in the opening years of the present eentuiy. It
was a time when men's minds were stirred by great
questions. The old order of things was passing away, a
new order was introduced. The principles of religious
liberty were coming to be more legitimately applied.
The great revival under Wesley was still felt. The great
leader in that wonderful movement left the stage only
just before the close of the last century. Men were be-
ginning to enquire concerning their obligations to carry
the Gospel to the destitute in various parts of the earth.
In 1787, William Carey, who was afterwards acknow-
ledged to be one of the foremost linguists of his day, was
a pastor at Moulton, with a salary of $80 a year. In 1792,
the Baptist Missionary Society of England was formed at
Kettering, and soon after this, Carey and his companions
were sent to India. Andrew Fullei-, who was acknow-
ledged by all who knew him, to be one of the ablest
theologians of that period, did not die until 1815. John
Eyland, Eobert Hall and John Foster lived to a still later
date. These were household names among the Baptists
in England in the first quarter of this century. To know
such men, to hear them, to live in a society quickened
by their thoughts, stimulated by their purposes and
moulded by their culture, was of itself a valuable educa-
tion. John Howard died in 1790, Burke in 1797. In the
same year, appeared Wilberforce's Practical View of
Christianity, which passed through fifty editions in about
fifty years. The society for tbe suppression of the slave
trade was organized in London in 1787. Aftei" repeated
attempts and failures on the part of the friends of the
measure, the bill for the suppression of the slave
trade, having passed both the houses of Parliament,
received the royal assent on the 25th of March, 1807. It
was not till August 28, 1833, that slavery in the British
colonies was abolished by Act of Parliament; and in the
203
same year, Wilberforce, the great advocate of this reform,
died. Pitt and Fox closed their labors in the first years
of the centary, but Canning and Bj'ougham were positive
forces in the direction of public affairs to a much later date.
The period before us was marked by genuine power and
honorable achievement in literature. It displays a large
number of names, famous in the realm of science. At
that time the applications of the principles of science to
the practical arts of life was successfully cultivated.
Great political questions were then discussed with an
earnestness and directness seldom surpassed in any age.
After the fearful scenes of the French Eevolutions and
political re-adjustments consequent on the battle of Water-
loo, men in England, and on the continent, felt that they
had lived on into a new era. The future was bright and
they were full of hope and courage. It could not be
otherwise than that the active, intelligent, and observant
young man, who went in 1814 from St. Peter's to Step-
ney to begin his professional studies, and who was or-
dained in London in 1818, should have been strongly
influenced by the spirit of such a time, and by the know-
ledge, which he could not fail to have, of such renowned
leaders of thought and action. We should be led by
the nature of the case to conclude, even if we did not
know the fjict from other sources, that such an individual
in such circumstances must have felt the movement of
the time, and have been himself px-ompted to take
part in the discussions of great topics that were occupy-
ing men's minds in those years. You who have sustained
to Dr. Cramp the relation of pupil to teacher, have wit-
nessed the pleasure with Avhich he referred to memorabla
scenes in which some of these great men bore a promi-
nent part, and have heard him describe the effects of their
eloquence, and express his admiration of the abilities by
Avhich they commanded success in the various depart-
204
ments of public life. And if he sometimes permitted
himself to reveal his feeling, Nestor-like, that men wei-e
men when he was young, we were not disposed to dispute
the claim, remembering of what men he was thinking.
He had been associated with some of them in the societies
for important objects, which then had their origin. He
had seen them at their best in their public labors, and
their spirit, example and abilities had left an impress on
his spirit, which he bore to the last.
" It was probably in part owing to the events that
were transpiring in the early years of Dr. Cramp's life,
but also quite as much to the natural tendency of his
mind, that he belonged through life to the party of pro-
gress. He did not regard an existing order of things as
right, merely because it existed. Having accepted cer-
tain principles, he expected them to be wrought out in
pj-actice. Eeference has already been made to the fact
that the first third of this century presented many vital
questions on which the English people were divided,
some holding with the past, others pressing on to a diff-
erent and, as they hoped, a better future. Only the most
general reference to these could now be permitted. It
will be enough simply to name Catholic emancipation,
the suppression of the slave trade, slavery in the British
colonies, the monopoly of the East India Company, the
rights of missionaries in the British provinces of Asia,
the removal of the restrictions on trade and commerce,
sepai-ation of the Church from the State, the right of Dis-
senters to (Jnivej-sity degress, and other civil privileges
in regard to which the laws discriminated against them,
the advancement of national education, the circulation of
the Bible and of a religious literature. Few generations
have been called to act on so large a nnmber of important
subjects. On most of these Dr. Cramp developed stz-ong
convictions early in life, and afterwards labored most
205
earnestly and untiringly to carry them into effect. His
intei-est in the extension of education among the people,
and in the promotion of Christian missions, and his
spirited advocacy of the principles of religious liberty,
deserve special mention. He desired " the greatest good
of the greatest number,' with a broader and truer view of
things than that political philosopher, to whom this
maxim is ascribed, possessed. These early preferences
and convictions he cherished to the last, and rejoiced in
the successive stages through which the labors in behalf
of these various objects were caried forward towards a
successful issue, In regard to some of them, he was per-
mitted to share in the exultation of victory. In respect
to a few, the contest still continues ; but he never lost hope
in regard to the result, and died believing that others
would ere long see what he had desired. The great
questions of public interest that arose with the passing
years, Dr. Cramp met with the same spirit that distin-
guished his early life. During the revolutions that con-
vulsed Eui'ope in the middle of this century, his sympa-
thies were with all who desired to enlarge the freedom
and improve the civil condition of the people. To the
close of his life, he was a thoughtful student of the various
problems growing out of the relations of the colonies to
the mother country. He was jealous of anything that
might tend to weaken at any point the integrity of the
Empire, and yet he believed that the strength and great-
ness of the Empire wonld be best promoted by a large
measure of freedom and self-regulation in the several
parts. He was among the iirst to discern the benefits of
a union of the British Provinces of North America, and
the development of the new Dominion was watched by
him with the affectionate interest and hopefulness of true
patriotism. Very soon after his removal to Montreal, he
declared himself in sympathy with the purpose of the
206
various organizations which were designed to prevent
intemperance. He labored perseveringly to bring the
communities in which he lived to a clear perception of
the dangers that constantly rise from this great source
of disorder and crime, and his voice and pen contributed
not a little to the force of argument and appeal by which
so marked a change has been produced in public opinion
in regard to the physical and moral evils of intemper-
ance. As Dr. Cramp was greatly interested in his earlier
years in the success of the societies that had been formed
in England for the wider circulation of the Bible and the
production of a sound religious literature, so when in sub-
sequent years the question of the revision of the transla-
tion of the Bible began to be agitated, he at once declared
himself favorable to the project. He connected himself
with the American Bible Union when its supporters were
few, and for a long term of years was a regular contri-
butor to its funds, believing that the immediate as well
as the more remote consequences of its efforts for a
clearer translation would be a wider diffusion of the
knowledge of the Bible and a more abiding interest in its
truths. And when, more recently, revision was under-
taken by the English Commission, again his sympathies
and hopes were wakened. He watched the events that
indicated the progress of the work with constant interest,
and when the fruit of so much patient study appeared,
he received it with thankfulness. Many of the changes
introduced by the revisers he had anticipated. There
were others which surprised him. We accepted his ex-
pression of dissatisfaction with these, not as the com-
plaints of an old man looking to the past for his ideal of
wisdom or goodness, but as the utterances of a life-long
habit of mind according to which he judged that no
human work was to be accepted as ultimate, but that
the best of to-day must be improved in the days to come.
201
He was not blindly opiiraistic, but, believing that all
things are directed by a beneficent providence, he found
strength and comfort in constant labors for the good as
yet unattained. His eye turned naturall}" to the future,
and for him, memory was the servant of hope.
" But while the natural impulses and settled purposes
of his mind were in the line of new acquisitions of
knowledge and a higher development of human institu-
tions, in one department of thought and belief he held by
the past. In his view, the best fruits of the civilization
and culture of the last eighteen centuries were to be
ti-aced to the principles on which the church has rested.
His hope for the future was based on the truths which,
as he believed, had thus quickened thought and directed
life in the past. He accepted in the main what has been
called the Theology of the Reformation, and found con-
stant delight in following the labors of the strong men
who wrought and suttered for these doctrines. His early
life fell at a time when the influence of such meu as Leigh
Richmond, Henry Martyn, Simeon and Cecil was felt as
an inspiring power, — names which a generation ago were
pronounced in the church with reverent aftection, but
which seem to be now almost unknown in the rush of
new events. His sympathy with the spirit and methods
of these devoted laborers continued through life. The
writings of Cecil were especially valued by him, and
some of them were for many years a handbook of private
comfort and edification. The nature and tendency of the
Tractavian movement he discerned at its beginning. Its
later develoj^ment had been but the unfolding of what he
saw in the germ. Though he found little in rites and
ceremonies to satisfy his soul, he was not inclined, on
the other hand, to mystical or quietistic notions of re-
ligion. A theology developed from metaphysics he dis-
liked. As an interpreter of the Scriptures, he sought the
208
grammatical and logical meaning, rather than some
occult doctrine which mast be evolved by a spiritual-
izing or allegorizing process. He was satished with the
plain statements of the Scriptures, and believed that these
should be preached, not to please a philosophical curiosity,
but to produce the proper fruits in the practical life. His
active mind followed closely the eitbrts of the noted men
of culture and learning who are attempting to show how
the wisdom of the present must dispel the most cherished
beliefs of the past. But their methods of reasoning
brought no conviction to his mind. He gratefully
acknowledged that the critical studies on the Scripture,
by which the century has been distinguished, had shed
light on some portions of the written Word. But not-
withstanding all these criticisms, the Word remained
unchanged for him in its essential character. It was to
him something more than the voice of a dead past speak-
ing to an age that could not comprehend it ; it was rather
the voice of the living Spirit from whom all truth pro-
ceeds, speaking to the heart of man for all time. He
found great pleasure in tracing the marvellous researches
of modern science. The learning and the patient industry
by which such valuable accumulations of facts have been
made, and so many scientific principles elucidated,
evoked from him admiration and gratitude; but when
these explorers amidst the mysteries of nature permit-
ted themselves to speak as if they had discovered the
secret of the universe, they lost their hold on his mind.
To account for this wondi-ous sum of things about us and
the relations of part to part, something more seemed to
him to be necessary than could be expressed by the
terms force, environment, heredity and luck. The new
cosmology was to him a dreary desert. The new theol-
ogy was only an ingenious effort to turn the world upside
down and put the last first. In the midst of a generation,
209
many of who.sc wise men declare that in all their search-
ings they cannot lind God, that in all the realm of nature
they can see no trace of His hand, nor in all the course
of human history, discover any indications of His will, he
was ready to stand in his place and avow his laith : I
believe in God, the maker of heaven and earth ; I believe
in His revealed word, spoken by holy men as they were
moved by the Holy Ghost; I believe in the Gospel of His
Son, the power of God leading- men unto eternal life.
Most of us will say that such a faith was the manifesta-
tion of true wisdom. Some may say that such expres-
sions indicate a type of mind that is passing away. The
future will determine which is right. But we remember
the words Avhich our departed friend occasionally quoted
in his expressive style of utterance : ' Sire, the church of
God is an anvil that hath worn out many a hammer.'
" It was not necessary that one should remain long in
Dr. Cramp's presence in order to learn to what denom-
ination of Chi-istians he belonged, xicknowledgment of
the revealed Word as the rule of faith in distinction from
ecclesiastical traditions and decrees, — the preservation
of the constitution and ordinances of the church after the
type which the Apostles had given to it, — the manifes-
tation of the faith of the individual as the condition of
membership in the church,— the acknowledgment of the
invisible and spiritual Head of the church as the source
of life and authority, — the independence of each com-
munity of believers in applying for itself the principles
of church organization and church discipline, while
bound to kindred communities by the duties and the ties
of a common fellowship, — the insistence on the fruits of
faith manifested in a high morality, as distinguishing the
believer from those who have not the faith, — dependence
on an ever-present Spiritual Power to give efficacy to the
word and constantly renew the energy of the church, —
14
210
a vivid sense of perdoual responsibility, joined with a
freedom of thought and speech that reverently legards
the authority of the Scriptures and is chastened by the
heaven-born graces that accompany genuine faith, — these
were the notes by which he recognized the true church.
Wherever men appeared holding these principles, he re-
garded them as brethren. His long and toilsome duties
in the records of the past were, for the most part, a labor
of love, since he desired to bring into the light, as far as
possible, the fidelity of all who had been true to such
principles, however humble may have been their station,
or however few or dishonored they may have been at
times when the majority of the church had a name that
they lived and were dead. But while he was clear and
decided in his convictions and beliefs, his eye was quick
to discover the manifestation of the love of truth.
Wherever this might appear it commanded his sympathy.
He was willing to learn of any, no matter of what name.
It did not concern him whether one had been pronounced
orthodox or heterodox. The chief points with him were,
what is the spirit, what the life, what the affections which
one bears to the unseen Head of the church. He had
learned from the study of the past, that often the streams
of true doctrine and life have come down through devious
channels. The lessons of experience combined with his
natural hopefulness to make him feel that a leaven of
truth might be at work in forms of thought that might
be disturbing the placidity of many good men. He be-
lieved that it was well to have a form of sound words,
but he always remembered that the spirit giveth life.
"All who became acquainted with Dr. Cramp, very
soon knew of what nationality he was. He never had
any inclination to conceal the fact that he was an Eng-
lishman. The vast accumulations of wealth and conse-
quent increase of power, together with the wonderful
211
development of the practical arts in England, the achieve-
ments of British arms in all parts of the world, the lists
of English names famous in science, literature and states-
manship, the development of a system of constitutional
government which, by the ejcperience of centuries, has
been shaped to guard the rights and freedom of the
humblest as well as the highest in the land, — all this he
contemplated with genuine satisfaction, and he firmly be-
lieved that a people who were made illustrious by such
achievements in the past, were destined to a more
glorious future. But he claimed the privilege of expres-
sing his opinions on any action of the government of the
day ; and we all know that he was able to express these
opinions in terms that could be easily understood and re-
membered. But these criticisms did not lessen his at-
tachment to the great name of England with all that term
conveys of proud remembrance of the past or hopeful
promise for the future. But while he was so attached to
his native land and the realm of which it is the heart,
his thoughts and desires for the welfare of mankind were
not bound by national limits. Love for his own country
made him none the less interested in the prosperity of
others. The unity of Italy, the changing phases of the
Eastern question, the condition of Russia, the political
changes in Central Europe, — these were frequently,
with him, subjects of earnest and anxious study. He
always rejoiced in seeing the condition of the degraded
improved, and the yoke of oppression removed. He
spoke with pleasure of the fact that he had been permit-
ted to take in his the hand of the man who signed the
proclamation of freedom for four millions of slaves. In
truth it could be said of him, that whatever concerned
man interested him.
But time will permit me only to mention some other
points in the character of which a sketch has been at-
212
tempted. The extraordinary diligence and industry which
distinguish the life we have been reviewing, deserve a
moment's attention. Dr. Cramp believed that in all the
callings of life, labor is the price of success. Idleness
was a burden to him. His recreation was found in change
of occupation. For a large part of his life, the time
which he spent in the class-room would have been enough
to exhaust the energies of most men, but, in addition to
this, he was at the same time carrying on original and
prolonged historical investigations which of themselves
were enough to distinguish his life. Besides this, under-
standing as he did the power of the press to guide public
opinion, he was a constant contributor of articles on the
leading topics of the times. As he was ready to meet
calls to public service, he always had in hand some special
business which had been committed to him, and which
called for energy and tact. He enjoyed preaching, and
his hearers would have been led by his manner to con-
clude that had been his chief employment. His familiarity
with the princij)al events, and the lives of the leading
men of the time was such that the casual visitor would
judge that the larger portion of hie time had been spent
in reading the news of the day. His resentments faded
away, but he cherished old friendships and found time
for an extensive correspondence. By constant and me-
thodical studies, his knowledge of the Scriptures and his
large stores of learning were kept under easy control.
Thus his life was a life of labor and consequently of
growth, and as this labor proceeded from benevolent
motives, the result was a prolonged course of useful-
ness."
" I shall ask you to note but one other characteristic
of him whose life we are reviewing — that was, his abiding
conviction that Christianity and intelligence are not
antagonistic, but, on the contrary, that the latter is
213
properly the servant of the former ; and hence his abiding
desire to see an intelligent and comprehensive application
of the principles of Christianity. He believed in the
equality of the members of the church, and in the respon-
sibility of the entire membership ; but he also believed
that gifts of teaching and of government were bestowed
on some for the good of all, and that these gifts should
be exercised in such a manner that the church should
appear as a well-ordered and thriving community, show-
ing how diversity of gifts contribute to perpetuate unity
of life. Intelligent laymen are in the church to lead it
forward in every cause. The duty, the privilege, is theirs.
Their call will be manifest in the wisdom of their work.
It follows from this that the ministry is the highest of
all offices. Hence it is necessary that this office should
be held by men who are able to meet its responsibilities.
They may be great classical scholars and philosophers or
they may not, but they must be men Avho know the
people and whom the people can know, — men who under-
stand the doctrines of the Book they are sent to teach,
who understand the spirit of the times and can adapt
their methods to it, men who in genei-al intelligence and
culture can win the respect of the communities they are
to lead, men who can speak a word in season to the timid
Nicodemus, and the alarmed jailer, and the enquii-ing
eunuch, but who can also comprehend the meaning of
the fact that the last chapters of the Epistle to the Eo-
mans are the bloom and the fruitage of the earlier j)ortion,
that herein is the type of the development of the church,
that, if it does not perjDetually show the corresponding
bloom and fruitage, it is because there is no life, or, at
best, but a feeble life in the stock. You may question
whether it is possible to realize such an ideal in this im-
perfect world, but we must admit that the presence of it
in one's mind is an inspiration. Probably Dr. Cramp's
214
greatest work was in the line of his efforts to train such
a ministry for such churches. He sometimes grieved
that the people were not more eager to give all the assis-
tance that is needed in maintaining a school for such an
object. Some of you will remember the tone of sadness
with which he closed an address at the laying of the
corner stone of the new College, when he said (to give
the substance of his words) that he hoped that when,
after the lapse of a century, the people f<hould be gathered
on those grounds in 1978 to lay the foundation of a more
sj^acious and costly building, they might say, * At length
the Baptists of these Provinces have a theological de-
partment such as they need.' But though he would have
done much more in this part of his labors, he effected a
great good, and his works do follow him to testify to his
faithfulness.
"But these observations must not be prolonged. A
useful life has become a memory for us. If we look into
the heavens on a clear night, it may seem to us a small
thing that one of those points of light should be jmt out ;
but when we consider how much of life and hope, of
strength and effort, of pleasui-e and sorrow, can be con-
centrated on one such sphere, its importance is enhanced
beyond our powers of imagination. So, when we look on
the multitude of lives about us, one may ask, of what
significance is it if one of them goes out ? But when we
think how much of love and hope, joy and energy,
noble purpose and successful accomplishment, has been
concentrated within the life that we have been consider-
ing, its value grows in our estimation as we contemplate
it. While we honor the memory of the dead with the tribute
that is its due, we are gaining deeper and truer views of
the possible dignity and value of every human life, and
so the good who have left us, live again with us in the
better lives of those who remember them."
215
Dr. Cramp as a Teacher.
Theodore H. Eand, D.C.L., Chief Superinten-
dent of Education, N.B., and one of the Grovernors
of Acadia College, spoke as follows : —
"Although, Ml'. President, I have been unable to com-
mand either my time or my thoughts in any adequate
degree for this service, I should be unfaithful to a great
and revered memory, and untrue to my own feelings,
did I not say a few words on this occasion. The shock
of that stroke of death which, on the 6th of December
last, removed John Mockett Cramp, the second founder
of Acadia, and the beloved and revered teacher of so many
of us, was felt wherever in the wide world a scholar of
Acadia happened to be. When I bade him farewell in
his study one sunny day last September, he spoke words
which cheered me in my work, as he had so often done
before, and added with resignation and hope, ' I am now
only waiting for the great change.' That was the last
time I saw him. I cannot now recall the time when I
first saw him. It seems to me as if 1 had always knowi^
him, so early and so large a place does he fill in my pre-
sent recollection.
" It was in 1854 or 1855 that I took residence on this
hill as a pupil in Horton Academy. Dr. Cramp had then
been connected with Acadia some three or four years.
He had left England in 1844 to take charge of the Bap-
tist Theological College, Montreal, of which institution he
was President till 1849. This was his first public educa-
tional labor. While in the pastoral office in England,
however, as early as his pastorate in London, be gave
private instructions to occasional students. I have re-
cently read a letter written to one of his pupils in 1819,
in which I instantly recognized ' the touch of a vanished
hand and the sound of a voice that is still.'
216
"When Dr. Cramp came to Acadia there were few
students at the College. With the aid of Professor Chip-
man, he carried on the Arts department and the depart-
ment of Theology. This was a courageous undertaking ;
but the following summer, Professor Chipman and four
students of promise were suddenly removed by the appal-
ling disaster in yonder Basin. That was an overwhelming
event to Dr. Cramp, but his brave heart rose above it,
and his trust in God inspired him to do great things for
the salvation of the College. During this period of in-
tensified trial, his labours were prodigious, disclosing a
depth of resource, a breadth of attainment, and a range
of acquisition which were fortunate indeed for the future
of this institution. At one time or another he here taught
Latin, Greek, history, mental philosophy, moral philo-
sophy, evidences of Christianity, rhetoric, logic, political
economy, and geology, besides the various branches of
theological department, including Hebrew and Greek
exegesis; and he was almost equally successful as a
teacher in each of these subjects.
" The wide range of scholastic attainments doubtless
had much to do with his marked freedom from old-time
prejudices respecting the subjects which should find a
place in the undergraduate course. He attached much
importance to a study of those branches of knowledge
which the experience of the world had proved to be fit
instruments of culture, being himself undoubtedlj^ the
best patristic scholar in the Dominion ; but his mind was
always open to considerations designed to adapt the cur-
riculum to the progress of knowledge and the currents of
modern thought.
" Dr. Cramp believed that right conduct and capacity
for effective work were the objects of education. There
were ever present to him the practical relations subsist-
ing between a sound body, a pure heart, and a clear head.
217
Physical, intellectual, and spiritual health, certifying its
existence in conduct and labor, was, in his view, a pre-
jjaration for independent life, and ensured self-direction
and progress. Woi'thy and purposeful activity, which
brought the enei-gies of the whole man into play, was to
him the chief end of knowledge and discipline. He re-
versed the saying of Bacon, and affirmed with the em-
phasis of his own example that ' light is not only a good
thing to see, but to see by.' Theresult which he desired
to see in the course of hopeful accomplishment in the
case of every student who came within these walls, was
the producing of a Christian man, standing four square
to all evil in his own heart, in society, in church and in
state, with sympathies as broad as humanity, and with
skilled energies for doing abundant work.
" His old scholars present in this great assembly will
readily recall his paternal interest in their phj'sical
health, his practical hints on food, clothing, and daily
exercise, and the encouragement he always gave to manly
sports, though looking with disfavoui- on violent exertion
and feats of strength. He took note of physical training-
only so far as it is a necessary condition of perfect health.
The doctrine of Pascal, that ' disease is the natural state
of Christians,' was abhorrent to him.
" As I call up before me the every day conduct of
students with him in College work, I feel afresh the
inspiration of his intense ^personality. Dignified in mien
and bearing, with an eye to command, his presence in the
lecture room was atimulating in a high degree. Every
student instantly recognized in him a man of original
force and skilled equipment In his teaching, all truth
rested on facts, aud reputed facts must be verified before
serving as a ground of induction. He taught that lesson
with as much persistency as the leaders in modern phy-
sics, but unlike many of them, he set his face stead-
218
fastly against every phase of mere speculative knowledge.
Clearness and realness were essentials with him. The over-
wise student found himself put suddenly and severely on
the defensive, and felt the thrust of a Damascus blade-
He had a rare gift, which he used in a rare way, of
humbling self-conceit, and giving pride a fall. He made
his students feel the immense superiority of intellectual
honesty to intellectual power. Accuracy was demanded
as a quality of prime importance. He believed with
Arthur Helps, that the man who is to succeed must have
an almost ignominious love of details. His own know-
ledge was wonderfully minute and exact, and once ac-
quired, seemed to be always at the command of his will.
His extraordinary memory was his right arm in the
presence of his class. His criticisms and comments were
keen and incisive, cleaving error to the bone with the
inevitableness of fate. His students were made alive to
the truth that correspondence between the thing thought,
the thing done, and the thing said, is a test of consistent
and noble type of life. Every recitation was a discipline
in veracity, in careful statement, in thinking before
speaking. Desultory reading was seen to be of little
avail, and wide reading — that it tended to confusion, un-
less care was had to read fii-st the latest standard works
in any department of knowledge.
" There was always a breezy and stimulating freshness
in the atmosphere of his lecture. It was no cloister dim.
The shoutings from the fields of victory in the outside
world, whether of peace or war, resounded within its
doors, and Avere turned to swift account in animating the
facts of history, in which he was so deeply and accurately
versed, or in giving vividness and reality to some prac-
tical truth of science or philosophy. It was his practice
to use the latest discoveries of science for the purpose of
emphasizing the limitations of existing knowledge, and
219
the vastness of the domains awaiting exploration. He
kept the windows of his lecture-room wide open to the
world of action, and trained his students to share, in
thought and feeling, the struggles of the men of this age
the world over in establishing or defending the principles
of political or religious liberty. As an extreme illustra-
tion of the freedom with which he handled before his
classes subjects which were not set down in the printed
course, but which he knew were really there, I may
instance his exhibition of righteous indignation when the
facts in connexion with the so-called Jamaica rebellion
were laid before the world. Eising in the lecture-room,
(to the stature of a giant, as it seemed), the lightning
flashing from his eyes, he denounced the hanging of men,
the flogging of women, and the burning of houses, as the
acts of a weak and cowardly tyrant, who was a shocking
disgrace to the English name, and worthy of death. It
was nothing to him that Kingsley, Tennyson, Ruskin and
Carlyle lent the weight of their great names in defence
of Governor Eyre, The inviolable rights of citizens of
the Empire, and the rights of humanity itself, had been
outraged. It was therefore, he said, of concern to the
students of Acadia, and demanded their execration. In-
telligent but downright hatred of oppression and tyranny,
in every form and in every clime, and glowing j^et intel-
ligent sympathy with freedom and constitutional liberty,
were aims most surely accomplished by him in all his
students. A loyal Englishman himself, his students
learned from him the force and power of a discriminating
and ardent Christian patriotism. They not only gathered
new love for their native land, but felt the noble re-
verence of his spirit for the institutions of England —
reverence not so much for any special forms which they
had assumed, as that their existence testified historically
to the courage, endurance, and moral stamina of the race,
220
and thus gave assurance of stability and progress in per-
sonal liberty and free government. By means such as
these he sought to lift his students out of the isolation
and poverty of mere provincial life, and enrich and en-
noble them by a consciousness of vital relations as wide
as humanity. Within the range of my experience, his
educative force in this direction was unique, and alto-
gether remarkable and immeasurable.
" Associated with the earnestness of which I have spoken
and penetrating it through and through, was the not leas
striking characteristic of his cheerfulness. He was
habitually cheerful, and his spirit, like that of all earnest
souls, was contagious. The discontented, gloomy student
was lifted out of himself by the buoyancy and stimulating
qnality of Dr. Cramp's animal spirits. There was per-
petual sunshine in him, whose warmth revealed the
singular youthfulness of his sympathies. Students
divined at a glance, and proved through long years the
correctness of their first impression, that he had never
lost the boy's heart. His freshness and spontaneity ; his
interest in comparative trifles when these were of interest
or profit to his students ; his swift transition from mirth-
fulness to gravity; his purity of heart ; his gentleness
and tenderness — these and such as these, so obvious to
all, and so perennial in their manifestation, attested the
childlike nature which dwelt at the very centre of his
being. Every one who knew him as a teacher will say
that he was, of all men, a stranger to
' The hardening of the heart, that brings
Irreverence for the dreams of youth.'
" In College discipline, Dr. Cramp was considerate, but
firm and decided. He knew well the virtue of Arnold's
maxim, ' A teacher must not see everything.' He ex-
pected, and secured in a very high degree the conduct of
I
221
Christian gentlemen on the part of all. He largely relied
on healthy activity, manliness, the sense of honor, and
the feeling of moral obligation. He desired to train every
student, not merely to obey when the pressure of authority
was upon him, but also to use freedom aright when he
became a law unto himself.
" He was interested in the spiritual welfare of his
students. His public sermons seemed to be largely pre-
pared under a sense of their needs, and were full of the
helpfulness of the Gospel. My mind reverts, however,
"with special interest to his Sunday afternoon addresses
in the old Academy Hall. Who that heard them can
forget how his words revealed a strength and ardency of
loyalty to a personal Christ, hardly inferior, as it seemed
to that of Paul's ; an intelligent reverence for the Bible
as ' the great text-book ' — ' the Magna Charta of soul-
liberty,' ' the manual of conduct,' and ' the final authority'
in this world in all matters between man and his God.
There must always be a large percentage of college stu-
dents whose moral and spiritual Eubicon is passed before
their arts course is completed — sensitive spirits who, as
their outlook grows more and more elevated, are over-
whelmed with a consciousness of what it means to live
loyally to all that is noblest in them and above them, and
do a righteous man's work in the struggling, roaring
world for whose contests they are preparing. Such
spirits are oppressed in secret under a sense of the awful
solitude that encompasses personal responsibility, and
yearn for the sympathy of strong and tried souls. I
know that I speak to the hearts of many when I say that
they recall with grateful emotions the affectionate and
helpful sympathy with which Dr. Cramp was wont to
receive them under such circumstances, when sought in
his private study. The solemnity of life was no new
thought to him. He did not argue with one who thus
009
approached him, but gently drew aside the almost trans-
jiarent covering of his own inner life, disclosing its under-
girding and overarching faith in the crucified and risen
Christ. That was the citadel of his confidence, and his
repose was a great testimony to doubting and jjerplexed
hearts of the sustaining power of religious faith.
'' Beyond all verbal instruction and conscious aid
rendered to his students in the capacity of stimulator,
helper, and director, Dr. Cramp taught very powerfully
by the force of his own example. In this way, more
continuously and perhaps even more successfully than
in any other, he appealed to his students to regard time
as a jDriceless gift , to adopt regular and orderly methods
of work ; to cultivate intellectual thrift ; and to labor
with fidelity and conscientiousness. In the same forceful
way he was ever giving emphasis to f)romptne8s and
despatch, and reading out to his students in cheerful and
earnest tones the practical truths that they must be self-
instructors ; that they must not only be good, but good
for something ; that the battle of life is not fought by
proxy; that nothing has been done by man that cannot
be better done ; that every one should be occupied, and
die with the consciousness that he had done his best ; and
that humility is
* the root
From which all heavenly virtues shoot.'
"We Alumni, to whom he addressed such stirring
words at graduation, saj-ing ' Quit you like men ' have
known the perfection of his professional courtesy since
we left the precincts of Alma Mater, now doubly en-
deared to us by his precious memory. He followed us
all into the wide world with a watchful eye and the
deepest interest. He was always open to om- confidences,
and never violated them. He rejoiced in our success and
223
sympathized with us in our misfortunes and trials. The
gifts from his splendid library to his old students, as a
last act of tender remembrance, have touched many of us
to tears. Alas ! the grave has shut him from our sight ;
but we trust his freed spirit drinks in all knowledge as
it flows from the lips of the Great Teacher, his and ours.
Let me apply to him the words so recently, but more
fittingly, uttered of another : —
' Strong for the right ;
Stern against every wrong ;
His large heart could feel for human pain.
Through youth's dark night
Of doubts and fears that throng,
His silent deeds were potent to sustain.
' Yea, though we miss
His steadfast, helpful glance ;
Hear not again the rugged Saxon speech ;
Death leaves us this,
Through failure and mischance —
Pride in the man ; the loyal friend to each.
' Warm human heart !
Upright thyself, to be
Pillar and prop for feebler stejjs that trod.
Yea, though we part.
It must fare well with thee,
Victor of death, immortal soul with God.' "
CHAPTER XII.
LITERARY LABORS JN ENGLAND.
" As on, the teachers after truth are moving,
They may look backward with deep thanks to thee."
Alexander.
1818-1844.
These were abundant, and long continued. Dr.
Cramp was emphatically a student. There were
some favorite pursuits, such as ecclesiastical his-
tory, and general literature. It would be difficult
to exaggerate, in speaking of the amount of time,
or the intensity of energy given to these matters.
He loved learning for its own sake. For this
reason he pursued it, but still more with practical
aims in view, fully believing that it is for religion
and learning united, to lift the world out of its
degradation.
An extract from the preface of one of his pub-
lished works, will show the secret of his active
and laborious life. A reference had been made to
error and the evil wrought by it. The question is
asked : —
" How shall it be resisted ? ' By universal and com-
225
prehensive education ; by an energetic Gospel ministry ;
by the truth-proclaiming Press ; by holy living 3 by ac-
tive, watchful zeal, providing for the wants of themHsses ;
by fervent, persevering, believing prayei".' The weapons
of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty, through God,
to the pulling down of strongholds."
In the true spirit of this answer he, who gave
it, spent the years of his life.
An extract from his journal of the year 1862, will
show how intensely this course was pursued. He
was still filling the responsible position of Presi-
dent of Acadia College, and probably spending
nearly as much time in the class-room as the other
professors : —
" During the year 1862, I have read 47 volumes con-
taining 21,655 pages. Have preached 11 times. Have
wi'itten 11 letters on 'The Baptists of N.S.' as 'Menno.'
Have written and published 'A Portraiture from Life,'
a ' Lecture on the Great Ejectment of 1662.' Have
written 266 letters. Have written several articles for the
CJu'istian Messenger and the Baptist Magazine. Have read
the English Bible throughout, as last year.
" I have been visited with the greatest affliction of my
life in the removal of my dear Anne. May I, by divine
grace, rejoin her in the blessed, holy world, Amen."
It was indeed, a year of great anxiety, but there
was no abatement in the persistency of work.
So large a proportion of Dr. Cramp's literary
labor was of the class referred to in this extract,
that is, articles for papers and magazines, and often
without signature, or appearing as editorials, that
it is impossible now to form an accurate estimate
15
226
of the amount of matter which went forth to the
world from his pen.
It was, howeA'er, very great. And as Dr. Angus,
of Eegent's Park College, says of it : " Nearly
always discussions on live questions, vigorous and
helpful."
His first publication was a sermon on St. Bar-
tholomew's Day, in 1818, delivered in Dean Street
Church, Southwark, Aug 24th. Published and
sold at one shilling". A note on the title-page of
that tract is illustrative of all that Dr. Cramp
wrote and did through his life. It was this : —
" The profits (if any) will be given to the Protestant
Society for the Pi'otection of Eeligious Liberty."
The idea of pecuniary returns never seemed to
enter in, even as a partial motive, for action, in
anything that he undertook. To be able to help
the world on towards what he believed was its
ultimate destiny, liberty, light and life, was all the
reward he asked for.
This first pamphlet was followed by many more
of the same general description. In 1820, a sermon
on the Inspiration of the Scriptures. In the same
year, one on the death of King G-eorge III., both
preached in London. A copy of this sermon, beau-
tifully bound, was sent to Her Majesty the Queen,
and the following acknowledgment received from
her secretary : —
" Sir :—
''I am commanded by the Queen to thank you for
your most elegant book, which her Majesty is graciously
22Y
pleased to accept as a mark of that attachmeut which
is always grateful to her feelings, and I have the honor to
subscribe myself,
" Your most obedient,
&c., &c.,
" A. Hamilton.
"■ Brandenburgh House,
<' February 16, 1821."
" Sir :—
'' Allow me to say, without flattery, that superior
merit is always diffident. Else, why should you, sir,
shrink back from observation,— or, suppose it presumptuous
to ask for an acknowledgment of so handsome a present,
and so flattering a letter. I am proud to thank you for
the same, but still more for your approbation of my con-
duct towards her Majesty, who, from her own virtues,
merits any attention that can be paid to her Majesty.
" Again I thank you, and shall be happy to make any
personal acknowledgments at some future opportunity,
should the occasion present itself.
" I remain your
" obliged and obdt.
" A. Hamilton.
" Feb. 16, 1821."
In 1822, the substance of two sermons on " The
Scripture Doctrine of the Person of Christ." In
1823, "A memoir of Mrs. Maria Cramp." In 1824,
" An Essay on the obligation to the weekly obser-
vance of the Lord's Supper." In 1829, a circular
letter " On the Signs of the Times."
During these years, the " Tract Society " of Lon-
don was constantly publishing and sending out
228
religious books on a great variety of subjects. The
names of authors were not given. Many of the
books were simply abridgments of larger and more
expensive works. But it is within the knowledge
of some still living, that a great amount of this
work was done by Dr. Cramp. Among other
abridgments, Barnes' Notes on the New Testament
were revised by him, and prepared for publi-
cation.
In 1831, " The Text-book of Popery " was pub-
lished. A second edition was called for, and
appeared in 1839. The third and final edition of
this work was published in 1851.
The whole ground was gone over afresh ; im-
provements and additions were made as each new
edition was demanded. This is, doubtless. Dr.
Cramp's greatest literary work. Including the
appendix and index, it is a book of 568 pages. But
these figures give a small idea of the work itself.
The reading and research necessary for its produc-
tion were very great. It professes to be an accurate
description of the leading views and doctrines of
the Roman Catholic Church, drawn from the ac-
credited writers of that body. The author shows
how, step by step, the ancient churches wandered
away from the simplicity of the Gospel. Appeal-
ing to historical records, he points out the place
and the date when many innovations crept in.
The Eclectics appeared. An endeavour was made
to improve upon the divine plan of redemption, by
adorning it with the more showy rituals of heathen
worship. Sincere and earnest Christians protested
229
against this mixture of the human and the divine.
They began to draw off from these churches. Dis-
putes were referred to the Church of Kome, until,
little by little, her Bishop came to regard himself
as the head of Christ's people on earth. Strife and
conflict followed. Diets and Councils innumerable
w^ere called. From these Councils, the last and
most important of which was the Council of Trent,
having had many sessions and continued for
eighteen years, came forth the things to be be-
lieved by the church, the anathemas and penalties
of refusing to believe, and a long succession of
sufi"eriugs inflicted upon those who dared to wor-
ship G-od in any other than the way prescribed.
The calling of these Councils, the innumerable
diflaculties in getting them together, the opposing
views advanced during the discussions, the deci-
sions reached, the plottings and counter-plottings,
to bring all into harmony with the views of the
Pope, constitute a most interesting history. The
story is told with such clearness, and so many his-
torical sketches interwoven as so make it almost
like a romance. No one could have done it, except
one of extensive reading, most thorough and per-
sistent investigation, and with great power to seize
the main points of an intricate system, and put
them in such coloring as to be clearly seen.
The book attracted much attention in England,
when it first appeared. It was regarded as
thorough and reliable, and was used as a text-book
in several of the English colleges. It is still re-
garded as an authority on the matters discussed.
230
Probably the two religious systems, Popery and
Protestantism can be studied, compared, contrasted
and understood better from a careful perusal of
the Text-book of Poperv than in any other way.
The author of the " Text-book " regarded the
Church of Rome as full of error. But he gave many
of her adherents credit for ability, honesty, sin-
cerity and piety. He was not so blinded by secta-
rian zeal as to suppose that there could be no good
found among so much that was evil, or that all the
churches which separated from Rome were pure
and perfect. He insists, however, upon the suffi-
ciency of the sacred Scriptures, when rightly inter-
preted, to settle all religious disputes ; the Divine
Word as competent to guide every sincere en-
quirer into the truth.
The concluding observations of the book are
very beautiful and A^ery suggestive. They show
what the G-ospel is in its influences upon the
heart and life, under the following heads : —
" 1. Christianity is a system of grace.
" 2. Christianity is a system of spiritual worship.
" 3. Christianity is a system of holiness.
" 4. Christianity is a system of benevolence.
" 5. Christianity is a system of happiness.
" 6. Finally, Christianity is peculiarly the religion of
Christ. He is the ' Alpha and Omega, the tirst and the
last' And then closes thus : ' Inquiry into religious
truth is the^ most important of all inquiries. Pray for
divine instruction and grace. Opposing systems cannot
both be right ; neither ought it to be regarded as a mat-
ter of indifference, whether we serve God according to
His revealed will or not. Be open to conviction ; search
231
with impartiality ; seek wisdom from above. Every one
of us shall give account of himself to God.'
" Let us hold fast our profession. ' Buy the truth and
sell it not.' And especially, let us honor the sufficiency
of Scripture, Are there among us no practices unwai--
ranted by the word of God ? Is no further reformation
necessary? Have we no human traditions, no corrup-
tions or abuses, to be disavowed and removed ? Let us
institute rigid examination. We live in eventful times.
All religious peculiarities are about to undergo a severe
ordeal. God is saying to his church, ' Arise, shine ; for
thy light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen upon
thee.' Let us hear His voice betimes, lest if we slumber,
ruin overtake us; for the judgments that shall befall
Anti-christ in the latter days, will not leave unpunished
the popery of Protestantism."
In 1832, " An address to British Christians on
the ' Importance and Necessity of a ReA^ival of Re-
ligion,' with an appendix containing hints on the
formation of Revival Unions."
In those times, revivals of religion, as expe-
rienced in the churches in the United States,
were almost unknown in England. The addi-
tions were more gradual, one by one, or two or
three at a time, as the truth was brought home to
the individual heart. Any special religious ex-
citement was not expected, and would, in fact,
have been discouraged. Dr. Cramp's eyes then, as
ever, were open to what was going on all over the
world. The account of the displays of divine
grace in America, aroused his interest. He was
impressed with the importance of the subject, and
set himself to work to find out from the Bible and
232
otlier sources of information, whether these special
awakenings were a part of the Divine plan in
spreading the Grospel in the world.
The result of the enquiry was that " special
revivals " are scriptural, needful, and therefore
earnestly to be looked for and sought after. The
" Address to British Christians " is all aglow with
the zeal enkindled by the investigation. They are
reminded of their vast opportunities for usefulness,
the blessed privileges they enjoy, and also of the
coldness and formality prevalent, of the infidelity
and lawlessness abounding, and in view of it all,
they are called upon to ask for the old paths and
seek reviving showers from on high. A plan was
proposed for the formation of revival unions, which,
had it been adopted, would, doubtless, have re-
sulted in great good.
In 1835, a pamphlet entitled " The Just Cause."
This tract was issued by the Committee of a Pro-
testant Dissenters' Association, in one of the south-
ern counties of England. It showed by facts
drawn from actual life, the grounds upon which
Dissenters justly complained, and asked for such
changes in the laws of the land as would give
equal rights and privileges to all classes.
In 183Y, five letters of Dr. Cramp's appeared in
the Kentish Chronicle in reply to letters of the Rev.
J. E. N. Molesworth to the " People of England on
the iniquity of resistance to Church Rates." These
of Dr. Cramp were afterwards collected and pub-
lished in pamphlet form, and they are admirable
in many ways. More keen and cutting and con-
233
elusive they could haidly be made. They show
that upon the teachings of the New Testament,
church rates, as then levied in England, were
unjust to a large class of the people, un-Christian
in spirit, and a great injury to the religious body,
for whose maintenance they are expended.
The spirit of them may be gathered from an ex-
tract or two : —
" Before L commence, however, I will take this oppor-
tunity to observe that I see no reason why we should not
maintain our respective opinions without losing temper.
Nothing is gained by anger and vituperation. Our senti-
ments, it is true, materially differ But
I do not see why we should not differ amicably. Hard
arguments, if you please, let hard woi'ds be used by those
who have nothing else to offer. ... I must con-
fess, too, that I am as disinclined to ridicule as I am to
passion. It is very easy to make the multitude laugh at
distortions and caricature ; but ridicule is not reasoning.
The questions at issue between us are of too grave a cast
to be settled by witticisms. I shall write in sober serious-
ness, remembering that we ai-e not only commanded to
put away all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and
malice, but also to repudiate filthiness and foolish talk-
ing and jesting, which are not convenient."
The letters go on in this spirit of candor and
honesty, showing that the writer had a far more
extensive knowledge of church rates, their origin
and history, than most churchmen themselves,
and conclusively proving that the Gospel, as a
system, must be sustained by love to Christ, and
not by Acts of Parliament. The conclusion is ad-
mirable. After showing that it is neither the
234
destruction nor the injury of the Church of Eng-
land that is aimed at. but its liberation from fetters
that are binding her, and common justice to all
other sects, the writer closes thus : —
" After all, Sir, you and I have something more impor-
tant to do, than to quarrel about pounds, shillings and
pence. How much is it to be lamented that the state of
things in this professedly Protestant country should be
such as to render necessary the employment of so much
time and effort on such subjects. May the desired change
quickly take place, that we may all retire from the arena
of conflict, and address ourselves to the work of God in
our respective spheres, with renewed and undiverted
zeal ! While you labor in ' the poor man's church ' and
I in the poor man's chapel, let us both remember that we
are best fulfilling the high duties of our calling, when,
eschewing all merely sectarian purposes, we spend our
energies in the advancement of personal religion among
those who are committed to our care, — cultivate Christian
princijDles and love with all that call upon the name of
Jesus Christ our Lord — exhibit the holy influence of the
Gospel in our temper and lives, and thus —
' Allure to brighter worlds, and lead the way.' "
These concluding remarks admirably illustrate
the character of the writer. G-reat principles he
held with tenacious grasp. Defend them he must,
when they were imperilled or ignored. But he
was by no means sectarian in his views or feel-
ings. Upon the contrary, he was exceedingly
broad and liberal. He frequently gave utterance
to his feelings of admiration and esteem for the
great and the good in the churches, some of whose
principles and practices he contested with all his
235
energy. He would have done the same, only
more severely, if he had discovered these errors in
the body to which he belonged.
In 1839, "The Council of Trent," comprising an
account of the proceedings of that body. This
volume, the preface states, contains the historical
portion of the work, entitled " A Text-book of
Popery." The matter was re-arranged and abridged
by the author. This was the second edition of the
work ; the date of the first edition has not been
discovered by the writer.
In 1840, " Testimony of History against the
Church of Rome," issued by the Tract Society.
Facts are drawn from a wide range of records of
the past, and they are marshalled in such order as
to be impregnable.
"The Eeformation in Europe," a work full of
information and of interest to every lover of
truth. Published in 1840, by the Tract Society of
London. Beginning with the rise and progress
of the corruptions of Christianity in the third
century, it carries the reader through the various
stages of the conflict, — giving the names of the
heroic men engaged in it, till a large portion of
Europe was set at liberty, and the word of the
Lord once more free to speak to the hearts of the
people. A chronological table of the period adds
much value to the work.
In 1844, a work of 308 pages was published, en-
titled " Lectures for these times." It contains
fourteen lectures which had been delivered at
Hastings, in the winter of 1842-1843.
236
From the Preface we read : —
" The author has aimed to furnish a brief, but accurate
statement of facts and principles, with which all profes-
sing Christians, and especially the younger members of
our churches, should be familiarly acquainted. He ven-
tures to indulge the hope that the volume will be service-
able, as an introduction to argumentative treatises on the
works of ecclesiastical historians."
It was an effort to set forth the grand funda-
mentals of our faith in strong contrast with all
anti-Christian assumptions. While everything on
the one hand favored an onward movement all
along the line, Dr. Cramp thought that on the
other hand, " the signs of of the times " indicated
danger abroad. He saw and lamented the fact
that a large portion of the Christian world was
clinging to forms not warranted by the word of
the Lord. He believed that the " Reformation in
Europe," grand as it was, needed to be reformed
afresh, before simple faith in Christ would be uni-
versally recognized as the world's only hope. All
tendency towards ritualism was deplored by him,
and in this book, as in many of his other sermons,
he labored hard to separate the chaff from the
wheat, and warn the people of the dangers to
which they were exposed.
More than forty years have passed away since
" Lectures for these times " were published. And
developments have proved that the fears of the
author were not groundless. Nor has the danger
referred to. all disappeared yet. " Justification by
faith " alone needs still to be placed in strong con-
trast with every delusive hope.
237
2. Literary Labors in Canada.
As the President of the Montreal Baptist College,
and then of Acadia College, "VVolfville, there was
certainly work enough for any one man. The
office was no sinecure. It was not only the direc-
tion of the literary work of these institutions, but
a large portion of the teaching fell upon the Presi-
dent. Not only general management and teaching,
but the securing funds to pay off old indebtedness
and provide for the annual outlay. Not one man
in a thousand would have found either time or
energy for anything beyond the actual, pressing
calls of the hour. And yet the active pen could
not rest, so long as truth called for defense, or pro-
gress needed a fresh stimulus. The religious papers
on this side of the Atlantic were frequently en-
riched by readable and racy articles, no one, except
editors, knowing whence they came.
In 1845 — A sermon, Nehemiah, vi. 15, 16,
preached at a general meeting of the Canada Bap-
tist Union, held at Beamsville. The condition
and work of the Christian church are ably set
forth, and the duty of the hour enforced. An Ap-
pendix is attached, giving the names, statistics and
pastors of all the churches in Canada at the time,
so far as could be discovered. A note states : —
" Thei'e are other churches in the Province, but parti-
culars have not been ascertained. Imperfect as this table
is, it has required much time and labor to gather the
materials together."
In 1846 — " The Prominent Doctrines of the Gos-
238
pel." The circular letter of the Montreal Baptist
Association.
In 1850 — A lecture delivered in Montreal. A
vivid description of the changes and improve-
ments of the last fifty years, 1800-1850. During
some portion of these last few years, Dr. Cramp's
chief literary labors appeared in the shape of edi-
torials in the papers which he conducted.
In 1851 — " Inaugural Address at Acadia Col-
lege." Some extracts from this able address have
already been given.
In 1852—" The Future of the Baptists." A lec-
ture delivered in Wolfville, at a meeting called for
the purpose of considering the i)ropriety of under-
taking to raise an endowment fund for Acadia
College.
The denomination was well nigh disheartened
at the time. The ringing words and conclusive
paragraphs of the new President inspired fresh
courage and hope. The college was saved ; and
the impetus given has not yet died out.
"We give one extract from this lecture, simply
as an illustration of Dr. Cramp's familiarity with
facts, and his ability to use them when needed : —
" The Baptists of the North American continent have,
for the most part, evinced a praiseworthy zeal in the
cause of education. In the United States, besides aca-
demies and literary institutions in great numbers, there
are twenty colleges owned by them or under their con-
trol, in which about one thousand young men are now
pursuing their studies. There are also Theological
schools, wherein nearly three hundred candidates for the
239
ministry are under prei)aration for tliat great work. .
New enterprises of this kind, involving large outlays, are
entered upon nearly every year. For Eochester Univer-
sity, for instance, the sum of nearly $200,000 has been sub-
scribed within the last two years. An addition to the
former endowment of Brown University, amounting to
$125,000, was raised without difficulty, a year or two
ago. The respective sums of $75,000 and $50,000, are
now in course of collection for Madison University and
Newton Theological Institution respectively ; three pro-
fessorships in the University of Lewisburg, are about to
be endowed at an expense of $55,000 ; and a proposal has
been recentl}^ issued, to create an endowment of $100,000
for a college on the Mississippi. These are gratifjing in-
dications of enlightened zeal. How much it is to be re-
gretted that in these respects, the Baptists of the British
colonies of North America are so far behind."
Nothiug very remarkable certainly that a college
President should be able to collect such facts as
these, and use them to stimulate to like endeavour.
But the thing worthy of remark is this. It was the
same on every subject. "Whatever matter, pertain-
ing to human welfare, was up for discussion, the
leading facts, in relation to it, appeared to be
either in his possession, or so near at hand that
they could soon be there.
In 1859 — A sermon preached at one of the Asso-
ciations, entitled " The succession of martyrs."
The same year — "Scripture and Tradition." A
masterly reply to a letter of Mr. Maturin, on " The
claims of the Catholic church."
In I860 — A sermon preached at Hillsburgh, N.S.,
and published at the request of the Western Bap-
240
tist Association, "The Centenary of the Baptists."
Text, Ps. cxxvi. 3. "The Lord has done great things
for US." This sermon is full of information and in-
spiration. It contains a sketch of the history of the
denomination in these provinces for one hundred
years, the names of the ministers who had passed
away, the dates of their ordination and death, the
origin of the Home and Foreign Missionary enter-
prise, and many other facts, that he only knew
how to ferret out and bring to the light. Honorable
mention is made of many men whose record is on
high : —
" They did not enter the regular ministry, but engaged
in itinerating labours, and were gladly welcomed by the
people, to whom they declared the Gosjjel with much ac-
ceptance and blessing. Among the men of our own
times, Pi'ofessor Chipman holds the first place. Snatched
from us at the early age of thirty-five, and in the prime
of his vigor, he has left an enduring monument of his
worth in our institutions at Horton To pro-
mote our educational schemes, and advance the general
interests of the denomination, in all their varied aspects,
he tasked his powers to the extremity of endurance, and
devoted his whole life — a life, alas ! far too short in the
estimation of Christian friendship, and as unbelief would
say, j)rematurely cut oft'. Sad was the day when he and
our beloved brother Yery and the four young brethren
who accompanied them (W. E. Gfrant, "W. H. King, A.
Phalen and B. Eand) sank in the waters of the Basin of
Minas. ... A hundred years ago, a solitary
minister landed on these shores. There are now upwards
of fifty pastors presiding over churches, besides other
ministering brethren, variously engaged in the work of
the Lord — an increasing number of candidates for the
241
holy office — and a host of active servants of Christ, co-
operating with the ministry in carrying into effect the
purposes of Christian benevolence. Well may we say
"^Yhat hath God wrought?" "The Lord hath done
great things for ns.''
In 1860— "What will become of the wicked?"
A lecture before the Ministerial Conference of
King's Co., N.S. Published by request of the Con-
ference.
In 1862—" The Great Ejectment of 1662." A
lecture before the Acadia Athenjieum, and pub-
lished at the request of the students.
The same year — "A Portraiture from Life." A
loving tribute to the memory of Mrs. Cramp, who
had been the companion of Dr. Cramp for thirty-
six years, and died July 26 ; held in the highest
esteem by all who enjoyed her acquaintance.
In 1866 — " Catechism of Christian Baptism." A
masterly w^ork, establishing, on the authority of
Scripture, the principles upon this subject, which
are beginning to be acknowledged the world over.
Dr. Cramp's next published w^ork was " Baptist
History, from the foundation of the Christian
Church to the close of the eighteenth century."
This work was published in 1868. It contains
559 pages. G-reat labor, research, candor and fair-
ness, are manifest. There is an ''Introductory
Notice " by Dr. Angus, of London, from which we
take the following extract : —
'' Though I have undertaken to say a few words on be-
half of this volume of Dr. Cramp's, it really needs no
introduction. He himself is well known in both hemis-
16
242
pheres, and has labored in both. He has been a student
of ecclesiastical history from his youth. Nor has he
studied in vain. His work on the 'Council of Trent' is
still a standard book on all questions connected with tho
docti'ines and policy of the Church of Eome. His candor
and intelligence, his love of good men, and appreciation
of great principles, have won the esteem and aftection of
all who know him. These qualities will be found to dis-
tinguish the volume which is now introduced for the first
time to English readers. The volume deserves and will
repay careful study, and I very heartily commend it."
Among the immerous questions asked and
answered in the New York Examiner, a very widely
circulated paper, was one in reference to the most
reliable history of the Baptists. This volume of
Dr. Cramp's was referred to as the only one cover-
ing the whole ground. Other works of the kind
are more limited either in the time or extent of
country embraced. Dr. Cramp's extensive library
put him in possession of the facts from all quar-
ters. Knowing how few there are who have time
or opportunity to go through large and expensive
works, he undertook the laborious task of bring-
ing the materials into small s^^ace, and placing
them within the reach of all.
The contents are divided into eight chapters,
headed : —
" The Primitive Period," from A.D. 31 to A.D. 254.
'• The Transition Period," from 254 to 604.
" The Obscure period," from 604 to 1073.
'' The Eevival Period," from 1073 to 1517.
"The Eeformation Period," from 1517 to 1567.
" The Troublous Period," from 1567 to 1688.
243
" The Quiet Period," from 1688 to 1800.
" Statistics and Eeflections."
The information furnished under these heads is
very extensive. The privations, sufferings, fines,
imprisonments and martyrdoms through which the
denomination had passed, are described without
malice or party feelings. It is the work of a his-
torian and not that of a partizan. Leading men in
other denominations have frequently expressed
their admiration of the ability and candor mani-
fested in this history. In fact there is so much in
the book, of general interest, that it might well
find a place in any library. The historical refer-
ences, apart from denominational information, are
very numerous and important. The Apostolic
Fathers ; the date and place of their birth ; the
position they occupied ; their writings ; their
general character, are described. The rise of differ-
ent sects in Europe and elsewhere ; the names of
kings, and other prominent individuals, from the
early days of Christianity down, and their connec-
tion with, the history of the church ; the men of
eminent ability and piety ; and the part they took
in the movements of the times, make the work es-
pecially valuable as a book of reference. There
is a page of "Chronological Notes" attached to
each chapter. In this department of general liter-
ature. Dr. Cramp especially excelled. By some
mysterious method of his own, the dates of impor-
tant events in religious or secular history, and of
the lives of prominent men, also all great changes,
were labelled and put away in some appropriate
244
place in the memory, and once there, they seemed
to remain. The arrival of new ones never displaced
the old ; it was in fact like his own library. Long
after we thought it was full, and could contain no
more, many valuable additions were made, and
yet a place would be found for each ; and the
owner knew where to find both the old and the
new.
These "Chronological Notes" are worth more
than double the cost of the book to any one en-
gaged in literary work. They begin at the year
"A.D.,The Christian Church founded," and follow-
ing through all the centuries and struggles, end at
" 1799, The death of Samuel Pearce, the Religious
Tract Society founded."
In addition to these " Notes," the time is given
when the leading colleges and universities, such
as Oxford and Cambridge in England, came into
existence. All the colleges and theological schools
in the United States and Canada, founded by the
Baptists, with the president or principal of each,
at the time ; the denominational organs, magazines
and papers on both sides of the water, and the
editor of each ; the statistics, general condition and
growth of the body, together with the names of
the leaders through all the struggles of the past,
and many anecdotes connected with them, consti-
tute a work of great interest, and invaluable to
those who wish to know for what the denomina-
tion has been contending, and how far success has
crowned the efforts. Whatever other histories may
hereafter be written upon the same subject, it will
245
remaiu true, that the Baptist denomiuatiou owe a
large debt of gratitude to G-od, for the special gifts
and persevering research of the author of the work
we have been reviewing-.
Nothing but the fear of extending this x^art of
our work beyond the limits of prudence, could
prevent us from giving extensive extracts from the
work ; for there are many passages of rare excel-
lence. Energy of style, candor in judgment, and
impartiality in criticism, mark the book through-
out. Superior attainments and devotion to Christ
are acknowledged and praised, in whatever class
they were found. Error in doctrine, or in the life,
is deplored and condemned, as readily when found
among the Baptists, as elsewhere. The following
extract will illustrate ; the reference is to the con-
dition of religion in England after the persecuting
Acts of Parliament were repealed : —
" 1 have remarked that the denomination had evi-
dently fallen into a state of religious declension, almost
immediately after the restoration of freedom. The sta-
tistics 2)i"0ve this. To whatever other causes the condi-
tion of at!airs may be ascribed, there can be little doubt
that the paralyzing influence of the doctrinal sentiments,
entertained by many of the ministers, must be regarded
as mainly contributing to the result. John Brine and Dr.
Gill were chief men in the denomination for nearly half
a century. They were Superlapsarians, holding that
God's election was irrespective of the fall of many. They
taught eternal justification. Undue prominence was
given in their discourses to tho teachings of Scripture
respecting the Divine purposes. Although they them-
selves inculcated practical godliness, and so were not
246
justly liable to the charge of AntiBomianisni, there is
reason to fear that numbers of those who imbibed their
doctrinal views, kept out of sight or but feebly urged the
obligation of believers to pei'sonal holiness ; and this is
certain, that those eminent men, and all their fol-
lowers went far astray from the course marked out by
our Lord and His Apostles. They were satisfied with
stating men's danger, and assuring them that they were
on the high road to perdition. But they did not call
upon them to 'repent and believe the Gospel;' they
did not entreat them to be ' reconciled unto God ; '
they did not 'warn every man and teach every man
in all wisdom ; ' and the churches did not, could not,
under their instruction, engage in efforts for the con-
version of souls The backsliding
and coldness had affected all religious communities in
England. Had it not been for the merciful revival which
accompanied the labors of Whitfield and the "VVesleys,
evangelical truth would have well nigh died out. Those
extraordinary men were raised up for a glorious purpose;
the effects of their ministry were felt in all denomina-
tions ; the churches began to arise and shake themselves
from the dust. A new order of things may be dated from
the commencement of their itinerancy, indicating a gra-
dual return to Apostolic simplicity and fervour ; Christian
ministers preached differently ; if they uttered the same
truths, there was more affection and power in the utter-
ances. Some of them found that an addition to their
creeds was necessary, to bring them into accordance with
the heavenly standard, and Christian churches saw that
there were duties incumbent on them, which they could
not neglect without incurring ' guilt.' "
This, and many other passages, prove that while
the "History of the Baptists" was being written,
and their principles defended, the author of the
247
book was iu no mood to champion their cause,
when they swerved from the truth ; or to detract
one iota from the good found iu other Christians.
The wrong he attacked, wherever seen, the right
he applauded, whoever held it.
An earnest effort to stimulate the people, whose
history he had given, to greater zeal in the work
of the Lord, closes the book thus : —
" There is a future for the Baptists, and it is our duty
to prepare for it. Thousands of souls, just looking out of
obscurity and feeling after God, ask our guidance in the
search for truth and life. Freedom, outraged and down-
trodden by earthly tyrants, calls upon its to assert the
rights of conscience, and its entire immunity from human
control; and while it beckons us to the holy war, reminds
us that it is our glory to wield the sword of the Spirit,
with hands that have never been reddened by a brother's
blood. Our martyrs — burnt, beheaded, strangled or
drowned, in every European countr}^, at the era of the
Eeformation, and as yet unknown to fame, although their
Christian heroism was right noble, — expect that in the
diffusion and defense of the truths for which they suffered,
we will display a zeal befitting our privileged lot. A
great work is before us, both at home and abroad, de-
manding ardent love, enterprising boldness, and indom-
itable perseverance."
In 1871—" The Lamb of G-od." An extract from
the preface may explain the feelings and motives
of the author : —
" In other works, historical and controversial, I have
endeavoured to set forth, clearly and impartially, the
course of events, and to defend truth. . . .1
am now in the seventy-fifth year of my age, and cannot
248
expect to render much more service to the church of
God. The days of the years of my pilgrimage are draw-
ing to a close.
" This little book, containing the substance of several
sermons, is designed as a final testimony on behalf of
those precious truths, which constitute the Gospel of
Christ. As it is not sensational or fictitious, which
classes of writing are all the rage in these times, I could
not expect to gain anything by publishing it in the
usual way. I send it among you, therefore, in this pri-
vate manner, trusting that some souls will be profited,
and the Great Master honored."
With ripened experience and mellowed hope,
the great doctrines of the Son of God, which had
been his solace in many a trial, are in this little
volume set forth with great clearness and beauty.
And thus, being dead, he " yet speaketh."
In 1873—" Paul and Christ." Paul's early life,
his conversion, his abundant labors, his success
and Epistles are described, as affording proofs of
the grace of G-od in Christ Jesus our Lord, and the
power of the Gospel to change the heart and purify
the motives of men.
During the same year, a small pamphlet, entitled
" The Case of the Baptists, stated and explained ;
addressed to all whom it may concern."
There was a cause, and Dr. Cramp, although at
that time of life much disinclined to controversial
subjects, could not suffer the occasion to pass mis-
improved. Certain writers, finding no arguments
against something he had written in defense of
the truth, hit upon the happy expedient of sweep-
ing all claims of our body out of existence till the
249
sixteenth century. Dr. Cramp was too thoroughly
informed in the history and growth of all the de-
nominations, to allow such statements to j)ass for
sound reasoning.
The little pamphlet referred to went forth. And
if the writers spoken of above took the trouble to
read it, they were probably convinced that how-
ever commendable their courage might be, their
wisdom might be improved by fuller investiga-
tion.
In 18Y5 — "A Memoir of Madame Feller, v>'ith an
account of the origin and progress of the G-rande
Ligne Mission." A note in the preface, similar to
one that appeared on the first publication from the
same author, states, " should any profits be derived
from this publication, the amount will be appro-
priated to the Feller Institute."
The life of Madame Feller was one of great con-
secration and usefulness. The record of it has
been the means of doing much good. By its peru-
sal, all unprejudiced readers are convinced that
the work of the "G-rande Ligne Mission" in Canada
is of the Lord. New friends have been raised up,
both to pray for and give support to that good
cause. All the reward that he asked, who spent
some of the last days of a busy, useful life, in hunt-
ing up reports, and ferreting out the meaning of
letters and papers, usually in the French language,
and often very difficult to decipher at all, because
of their age or hasty composition.
In 1876—" The Realities of Religion ; " being
the circular letter of one of the associations. In
250
this letter, one who has been nearly sixty years
trusting in the promises of Christ, and finding
them more and more precious as the years have
passed away, endeavours to convince his younger
brethren, that their hope is neither a myth nor a
fable, that the unseen is the real, the Eternal Grod
in Christ, the Rock of their defense. Grlowing
with the prospect of the glory, he exclaims, —
" Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, to receive
power, and riches and wisdom and strength and
honor and glory and blessing." Brethren, shall we
be there ? shall we join in that song ? shall we
take part in the triumph of the glorified and dwell
with them in the presence of the Lord for ever ?
" For ever with the Lord,
Amen : so let it be,
Life from the dead is in that word,
'Tis immortality."
And it was an inspiring sight ; — Jacob leaning
on the top of his staff*, or Moses uttering his fare-
well blessing, was scarcely more imposing. The
snow-white locks and yet erect form, the beaming
countenance, notwithstanding the eighty years of
life, the ringing words of assurance and hope, all
conspired to drive despondency from the hearts of
the doubting ones, and gird them afresh for the
toil.
One more published w^ork, so far as we are aware,
completes the list : —
" The Second Coming of our Lord," an essay de-
livered before the King's County Ministerial Con-
ference, in 18*79, and published at the request of
251
that body. The fact of the Second Coming is
established by many Scripture declarations. The
various views held since the days of Christ are ex-
plained, with the errors fallen into, and the breth-
ren are cautioned not to be dogmatic on matters
which lie beyond our grasp, but to be humble,
active and hopeful, fully assured that in due time,
the Lord will come to take vengeance on the
ungodly, and to be admired by all his saints. But
that day and hour are, as yet, with the Lord.
This completed list, beginning at 1818 and end-
ing at 1879, sixty-one years, with the imperfect
references we have made to some of the works,
affords after all but a faint idea of the fruitfulness
of the life. The unwritten was vastly more than
the written. Putting together the long years of
active service, the unending persistency in work,
the methodical employment of time, and the unu-
sual rapidity with which work was accomplished,
we may venture to claim that the life we are re-
viewing, w^as one of the most fruitful of any, at
least, connected with the body for which Dr.
Cramp labored.
Had a little more strength been allowed, there
would probably have been additions to the long-
list. The history of the Baptists of the Maritime
Provinces was written and published in a series
of letters in the Christian Messenger, over the signa-
ture of " Menno." These were collected and re-
vised. It w^as the intention of the author to
publish the history in a separate volume, but
difficulties presented themselves, and before these
252
were all removed, the hand became too weak and
trembling to guide the pen, either to conduct cor-
respondence or correct proof, and so the work was
left unfinished. The manuscript was left to the
Baptist Convention for any use that may be made
of it.
Another small volume was designed, entitled,
" The last things." The manuscript was prepared.
In it are many reflections on the close of life, and
the end of all, beautiful and touching, coming as
they do from one who had lived so long and so
worthily, but fully realizing that his own last day
was near.
CHAPTEE XIII.
THE LIBRARY.
" The library was like a tree which he had himself planted, of
which he had nurtured the growth, which spread its branches
far and wide over his dwelhng, and in the shade of which he
delighted."'— Dean Stanley.
It has already been stated that the remark was
frequently made at the close of an " Anniversary
exercise," conducted by Dr. Cramp— "the right
man in the right place."
The president's address was always so animated
and timely, so in harmony with the spirit of the
occasion, that it was looked forward to as a special
feature in the day's proceedings ; and the expecta-
tions were generally more than realized. A similar
remark was often made at public meetings of the
denomination. For when vexed questions came
up for settlement, and long, excited discussions,
seemed only to be making things worse, the mists
and fogs becoming denser all the while, it often
happened that a few clear, but forcible words from
the Doctor, or a resolution moved by him, would
end the disputes, and open the way for united
254
action. Then it was felt, how good it is to have a
man among us of ripened age, extensive reading
and experience. It was " the right man in the
right place."
The younger brethren in remote parts of the
Provinces, contending against error, often found
themselves in difficulty. They would be required
to meet arguments which they knew were ground-
less, and yet sustained by great profession of wis-
dom. Not always having the means at hand to
refute these statements, they would send to Wolf-
ville for information. And when the return mail
would inform them, that such a book, (name, date,
and place of author given) contains such and such
statements, the page and paragraph marked, they
too, would thankfully exclaim — "the right man
in the right place."
If there was, however, any one place having a
pre-eminence in the adaptations, the man fitted to
the place and the place to the man, Dr. Cramp's
own library was the spot. It belonged to him
and he belonged to it. He nursed it with an affec-
tionate care, and it returned him large rewards.
As far back as any member of the family can re-
collect, "the library" received more attention,
money, and time, than all the other rooms ; more
thought perhaps than all other household demands
put together. And so completely was Dr. Cramp
at home, in every sense when seated among his
books, that the record of his life would be incom-
plete and altogether inadequate, unless this book
passion of the man were referred to. It would be
255
like describing- Miltou, without referring to "Para-
dise Lost," or some eminent artist, forgetting every
picture that his skilful hand produced.
Every home of Dr. Cramp had its library. For
he commenced to collect as soon as he began to
read. The more he collected, the stronger the pas-
sion grew. He never ceased, so long as pleasure
or profit could be derived from the matured
thoughts of the wise and the good.
The following extract from a letter to a member
of the family, early in 1871, will give some idea of
the work performed in this place of his resort : —
" On Saturday evening I placed iia my book, as usual,
a note of the work of the year, it is as follows : —
" During the year, I have read fifty-nine volumes con-
taining 27,032 pages. I preached very little, only twenty
sermons. I wrote 303 letters, I prej^ared twenty-eight
articles for the press, twenty-four of which a2)peared in
the Christian Messenger. I revised for the press my letter
on ' Church Development,' which has appeared in the
Baptist Quarterly. I wrote a small treatise, entitled 'The
Lamb of God,' which is yet in manuscrijjt. Whether it
will see the light of day, I cannot say.
" It was one symptom of advancing years, that on
Saturday night I retired to rest at the usual hour, instead
of waiting to welcome the New Year."
But we have wandered from the room to the
work performed in it. We now return to Dr.
Cramp's library. "We take his last one as a sample.
The place where the last twelve years of his busy
life were spent ; and it was a rich treat for many
of his old students to spend an hour with him
there. A treat for them, and equally enjoyed by
256
himself. For it revived old memories, and brought
in a little news from the pastors and churches, for
which he greatly longed, when he could no longer
gather information for himself.
The room was of fair average size, enlarged by
himself to make room for the constant arrivals.
There were originally two fair sized windows,
one on the east, the other on the north.
The eastern window, however, was soon sacri-
ficed to make more room for books. It was boarded
over on the inside and the space filled in with
shelves.
The Doctor's chair always stood in the same
place, at the side of the table, and there, in the one
spot, he himself was to be found from about an
hour before breakfast until ten o'clock at night, ex-
cept the time necessary for taking meals. For the
last two or three years, he would occasionally sit
for an hour or so, just after dinner, in an easy chair
which stood at his left, while he finished glancing
over the various papers and magazines which the
morning mail had brought in. Otherwise he was,
pen in hand, at the desk, the table so completely
buried up with books, papers, letters and maga-
zines, that no one could tell of what it was made,
or where anything was to be found. And yet, if the
doctor wanted a special paper or book, he knew
very nearly where, among the confused mass, to put
his hand upon it. On his left, or at the south-east
corner of the room, were the various biographical
works so arranged and placed that at a moment's
notice he could take down the one wanted.
25t
The following additional remarks are furnished
by a member of the family : —
" The library was a room apart; and family traditions
tjace its history through many changes ; the earliest re-
collection of each member having some special connec-
tion with it. Not that it was ever a gathering place for
family enjoyment; something of mystery and awe, seem-
ing, in earlier years, to invest precincts into which child-
ish footsteps seldom strayed. Order was observed in
each of the rooms that, through many changes, in turn
held the books. Theological works, commentaries, &c.,
had their appointed compartments, where also were to be
found a collection of Bibles in various languages. Some
of them curious editions, valuable for age and rarity, and
bandied with the pleasure only experienced by the true
book-lover. The Latin Fathers, in stately folios, filled a
large space undisturbed by the neighborhood of more
modern authorities.
" Histories, ancient and modern, science, geology, —
each branch of thought finding its accustomed niche, fa-
miliar only to the occupant. G-ood editions of standard
works were indispensable, — type, paper, binding, — all
must be of the best, and, as books were felt to be the most
valuable possession, when gifts were thought of, their
form was invariable.
" Some well-known, and well-loved author's produc-
tions, were sure to be forth-coming, enhanced in value,
by carefully selected binding, as a gem receives an added
touch in the setting. There was no room for decoration
in the library. Two or three portraits of old and valued
friends found a place, and one of the Eev. R. Cecil was
never missing. An engraved copy of a pencil sketch of
the old 'Baptist meeting house, Shallow's, Isle of Thanet ;'
done by fair hands, in youthful days, could not be dis-
17
258
placed, but any additions to these were inadmissible.
" In later years, the epergne, presented to Dr. Cramp,
on retiring from the college, placed on a stand in one
corner, was an object on which he liked to look, remind-
ing him of the appreciation felt and expressed for the
work which had been so dear to him."
The shelves all round on every hand, right, left,
behind, and before, reaching from the floor to the
ceiling, with every nook and corner over the doors
and v^indows utilized, to find a place for books.
The fact is, that the doctor, sitting in the centre
was literally walled in with books. And there he
was, emphatically, — " the right man in the right
place." No one who knew him could feel that
there was any incongruity there. The nouvecmx
riches sometimes surround themselves with all that
is beautiful and luxurious, and their own habits of
life, and uncultivated natures are such, that the
polished furniture loses half its charm for the
want of a corresponding polish in the owner ; the
adaptation is incomplete. The same applies to liter-
ary decorations. A house adorned with valuable and
costly books, but no one within able to appreciate
the contents, has so much of the mere exhibition
about it, that the books themselves lose half their
value, so long as they display themselves there.
There was no approximation to this condition of
things in the library now under consideration. For
if ever a man appreciated and enjoyed a good book,
Dr. Cramp did. He had some favorites among
them. These were read many times over. The
Bible always took the first place. For many years,
259
about fifty, if memory serves ns aright, his rule
was to go through the Bible course, from begin-
ning to end, once a year. But this formed the
smallest portion of his Bible reading. There was
a chapter or so of the New Testament in the
Grreek every day, and various psalms and New
Testament portions for devotional purposes.
The works of Richard Cecil were first met by
him when a student at Stepney. These were gone
over once a year, and as he himself often remarked,
with increasing pleasure and profit as the years
passed away. The works of such men as Foster,
Hall, Fuller, Baxter, Bunyan, et ah, all, in fact, of
the distinguished divines, were very familiar to
him. The latest books on theological subjects,
commentaries, and especially the lives and labors
of the missionaries, as fast as they appeared, were
found on his table and eagerly devoured.
He lived so completely among the books that
his knowledge of them was very extensive and ac-
curate. There were about 3,000 in his own library,
besides the 1,500 that were destroyed in the burn-
ing of his house in 1856, and many in other parts
of the house. He not only knew what was in his
own library, but he had extensive knowledge of
what was not there. It was, indeed, a rare thing
for one to refer to any English author, from Chau-
cer down, without finding that Dr. Cramp knew
something about the book. The name and date,
the subject matter and the general value of the
work, seemed to be in his possession.
Some books he read and re-read and reviewed
260
for the press, or for his own profit. But he had a
marvellous facility for finding out and remember-
ing what was in a book, in a general way, with-
out reading it. A very few pages glanced over,
(and from long practice, this could be done very
hastily) were quite sufficient to convince him,
•yvhether there were anything there to repay a care-
ful perusal. If not, the table of contents and a
magazine review, if there were such, would suffice,
And still he would know enough to discuss the
merits of the author.
The old standard authors in history, science,
poetry and theology, etc., occupied a prominent
place in his regard. He revered many of these
men, and placed a very high estimate on their pro-
ductions. And yet, he was intensely eager to get
the latest thoughts on all important matters. Noth-
ing, in his estimation, was finished. G-rowth and
improvement were to be expected in every depart-
ment of thought. Improved methods of research
should be continually revealing new truth. And
he was ever on the alert to catch the new, when
it came. Even theology was, to him, a grand
science in the course of development. The Bible
was finished, revelation completed, but the inter-
pretations, the applications, the relations to human
life and history, these were all in a course of con-
stant unfolding. More was to be expected, and he
was as one eagerly looking for the next develop-
ment.
His library, extensive and complete as it was,
did not go far enough. It was always a little be-
261
hind the time. The history, written twenty years
ago, needed a supplement to bring it up to date.
How is this blank to be filled in ? It was done by
the daily mail.
The arrival of the mail was the signal for laying
down the pen, or rather for placing it with two or
three quick thrusts into a box of small shot on the
corner of the desk. And if the mail were half an
hour behind the time, that was a season of unrest.
The work would go on, but with a good deal of
uneasiness. When, occasionally, trains were snowed
up, and no mail for two or three days, then the
doctor was greatly disconcerted. A whole week
without contact with the mind and thought out-
side, appeared like falling behind the world's
movements and progress.
The papers usually came every day, and at about
the same time. And they were from all quarters.
The dailies, the tri-weeklies from Halifax, St. John,
Boston, New York. The quarterlies, and illustra-
ted papers, and magazines from every direction. If
a week's mail should come at once, after a storm,
no wonder the bag was long in coming, for its
load was heavy. Then the dailies are glanced at,
A few minutes would decide whether there were
anything worth reading. If so, they are carefully
laid aside ; then the letters opened and read or laid
by, according to the circumstances. Then the
wrappers torn from the magazines, A glance at
the contents, writers, etc., and put in positions for
future perusal. All of which is done quickly, and
yet methodically, and Dr. Cramp has a general idea
262
of all that the mail has brought him. He is at
rest, and the reading will come in at intervals till
the next mail arrives.
The large daily mail, perhaps, was nothing
uncommon. But the eagerness for the contents
was very uncommon. And the rapidity with
which all the leading events of the world's history
were gathered up, was perfectly astonishing.
As public duties, one after another, were
dropped, the library, of course, became more and
more the one place where Dr. Cramp was to be
seen. He was greatly missed from the church,
and other meetings, where even his presence, in
other days, added so much of interest. But the
intimate friends were glad to know that there was
a place where he could be found, and that a visit
from any of them was always welcomed. And for
any one with an eye to see the beauty of perfect
adaptation, the harmony of fair proportions, it was
a sight worth going some distance to see Dr.
Cramp in his library. There are many who will
not soon forget the impressions made upon their
minds in visiting him there. The dignified and
yet wasting form ; the snow-white locks reaching
down nearly to the shoulders ; the genial and
beaming countenance, even to the last ; the mel-
lowed manner ; the gentler and softer bearing ; the
maturing faith and brightening prospects, were all
visible to those who had an eye to mark the
changes that time and Divine grace united, can
produce. Many a day must pass before such a
man will sit again in such a library.
263
The following is clipped from the Christian Visitor
of Aug., 1883. Dr. E. M. Saunders, of Halifax, N. S.,
was one of the editors at the time, and furnished
jottings of visits to the country : —
"A Call at TVolfville.
" It would be very difficult to find words to exjDress
the impression made by entering the library of the late,
venerable Dr. Cramp. So accustomed have we become
for many years past, to drop into that library and have a
few moments with its genial occupant, who always ex-
tended a hearty and cheerful welcome, that it seems diffi-
cult to discontinue the practice, although the facile and
active pen waits in vain for the vanished hand, and the
empty chair for the vanished form. The books are on
the shelves, as if still ready to serve a faithful and appre-
ciative master, but the familiar hand is not laid upon
them. No, all the books are not there ; for parcels of
them, valuable indeed for their intrinsic worth, but
much more so for the love and esteem cherished for the
father in Israel, who, while living, arranged for their
distribution, after his own departure for the rest he ever
held in view, sure to follow his long and active life, are
now on the shelves of ministers and other students, Avho
in the happy days of the past sat at this good and great
man's feet.
" Still the shelves seem full. The venerable form is
not there ; but the room, the books and every object in
that sacred spot seem instinct with the learning and spirit
which ever animated the very surroundings of that man,
whose rest seemed to be hard labor. Ail this appeared
more real, we suppose, because of a likeness exquisitely
executed in oil and of perfect resemblance to the original
which overlooks this room in which Dr. Cramp spent a
264
cheerful old age. No father could be more affectionately
and worshipfully remembered than is Dr. Cramp, both by
those who, from natural and spiritual relations, will ever
esteem him their father. ' The lips of the righteous
feed many.' ' The pens of the righteous feed many.' If
in the audience of all the people we, who knew him,
should say, ' Thank God for Dr. Cramp,' every one of
these thousands of hearts would send up a hearty. Amen !"
Dr. Cramp's library was always available when
truth needed defense, and he was not afraid to de-
fend the truth, however wise and good those
might be who were discovered in any error.
This disposition led him in the course of his life
into correspondence, sometimes of a controversial
character. Not because he loved controversy, but
because he loved the truth, and could not rest
when it was assailed.
Sometimes he had the happiness of coming into
contact with men of broad and liberal views. Like
himself, they were free from all bigotry, and only
needed to have their attention called to any mis-
conception of theirs, in order to have justice done,
so far as that could be accomplished.
The following letters, one written in the library
described above, near the close of the year 1870,
and the other at the Deanery, "Westminster, early
in 1871, will afford an illustration of the character-
istics of two honorable men : —
"WoLPViLLE, KS., Dec. 28, 1870.
" To the Rev. A. P. Stanley, D.B., Dean of Westminster,
" Eev. Sir :—
"Glancing into your volume of 'Essays' just received
265
from England, I noticed at p. 36, this phrase : " the in-
significant sect of Baptists." You will allow me to say,
(I am a Baptist minister of fifty-two years standing), that
I was grieved and pained. I did not think that the de-
nomination which has produced John Bunyan, William
Carey, Robert Hall, and John Foster, besides many living
men of eminence, one of whom is a member of the 'New
Testament Company,' should be stigmatized as an ' in-
significant sect,' and I am especially sorry for the appear-
ance of the expression now, because you have reprinted
it, after the lapse of twenty years, as if to intimate that
you justify its original use.
" I send you by this mail a copy of ' Baptist History,'
and also some documents relating to our denomination in
this part of the world. If you can find time to read them,
I hope you will be prepared to acknowledge that the
Baptists are not an ' insignificant sect.'
" Allow me to express the indebtedness which I feel to
you for great pleasure and profit derived from the perusal
of your works. Your ' Lectures on the Jewish and Eastern
Churches,' your * Sinai and Palestine,' your ' Memorials
of Westminster Abbey,' and your ' Historical Memorials
of Canterbury,' were placed on my library shelves as
they were successively published : the ' Essays ' have
just reached me.
" I was particularly interested in the perusal of the
volume on Canterbury, because I was two years at school
in that city, and frequently visited the cathedral.
" I am,
" Eev. sir,
" Yours respectfully,
"J. M. Cramp."
266
Eeply from Dean Stanley.
" Dear Sir : —
'' I have just received your kind letter and your valu-
able work, for which I beg to return my sincere thanks.
"Your criticism on the phrase, 'the insignificant sect
of Baptists ' is most just. It was, perhaps, excusable in
an essay, written twenty years ago ; but it was inexcu-
sable to have left it uncorrected. I can only account for
it by the natural inadvertance with which one corrects
statements printed long ago. If you will do me the honor
of looking at a somewhat parallel passage in my lectures
on the Eastern Church (p. 29, 2nd ed.) you will see that
the offensive phrase is there omitted. I can assure you
that in my lectures at Oxford, I have often spoken of the
Baptists as being numbered amongst Honorables in our
day. ' The most beloved of English soldiers, (Havelock)
the most popular of English preachers, (Spurgeon), and
the most celebrated of English travellers, (Livingston)/
thus adding three more to the departed glories that you
commemorate, and whose history you trace in the vol-
ume which I shall hope to read. Pray, therefore, erase
from the copy of my essays, which has been honoured
by a place on your shelves, an epithet so inaccurate and
inappropriate.
"With all good wishes to you in the coming year,
" Believe me to be
" Yours faithfully,
" A. P. Stanley.
" Deanery, Westminster,
" Jan. 10, 1871."
CHAPTER XIY.
EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF TEMPERANCE REFORM.
" The boundary of man is moderation. When once we pass
that pale, our guardian angel quits his charge of us." — Feltham.
It would be an injustice to the memory of Dr.
Cramp to make no mention of his efforts in behalf
of the great Temperance reform. During his early-
years, clergymen in England were not generally
total abstainers ; the moderate use of wine was
not deemed improper. In fact, by many it was
regarded as absolutely essential to continued
vigor of body and mind ; ale and porter were the
common beverages of the country.
As already stated, it was during the pastorate
at Hastings that Dr. Cramp changed his views on
this subject. It is hardly necessary to state that,
when the views were changed, the habit of life
was brought into harmony with the new prin-
ciple. From that time till the end of life, the
Temperance cause had no warmer friend. Both
by precept and example, he inculcated the princi-
ples of temperance, and often spoke of his own
continued health, and ability to work as resulting,
268
in no small degree, from his avoidance of stimu-
lating beverages. During the last half of his life,
he never touched even the weakest wines, except
on the recommendation of a physician.
One of the papers presented at the memorial
service in May, 1882, was by Avard Longly, Esq.,
M.P., since deceased. He had been an active
worker in the Temperance cause for many years.
As a member of the Sons of Temperance, he had
been much in contact with all the leaders of the
movement, and was well qualified to speak of the
service rendered by Dr. Cramp. We will, there-
fore, in lieu of further remarks on the subject,
give the substance of that paper.
Dr. Cramp as a Temperance Worker.
"Dr. Cramp came to Acadia in 1851 — ^just 31 years
ago. He immediately identified himself with the tem-
perance movement, then already recognized as a potent
agent for good within this province. Almost at once,
the Doctor became a standard-bearer in this great reform,
in connexion with the Order of the Sons of Temperance.
In October 1852 he was initiated into the Grand Divi-
sion of Nova Scotia, and at the same session was elected
Grand Chaplain — an office to which he was called a
secona time in 1871. A year later — in 1853 — he was
elected to the office of Grand Worthy Patriarch, and in
1855 he was again called upon to preside over the Grand
Division. In 1866 he attended a session of the National
Division, — an assembly representing the Sons of Tem-
perance of the United States and Canada — convened
that year at Montreal, as a delegate from the Grand
269
Division of Nova Scotia. He at once gained a position
in that large and influential body as one of its leading
men, and, on the ballot for officers being taken, was
elected Most Worthy Associate — the highest place, but
one, in the gift of the order. He continued his con-
nexion with the Sons of Temperance up to the time of
his death, but of late years, through feeble health, was
unable to meet with the brethren. He was greatly
missed. The last session of the Grand Division attended
by him, was held at Wolfville in 1878. I well remem-
ber the occasion. As Dr. Cramp entered the division
room, the members of the body instantly and spontane-
ously rose to receive him. It was a touching tribute of
affection, and betokened, in some small degree, the high
veneration and respect with which all who knew him
regarded him.
" In connexion with this gi'eat reform. Dr. Cramp was
ever ready to work in any way most likely to do good
He never shrank from any task where, by the pen or the
voice, he could help forward the good work to which he
had set his hand. He was a frequent contributor to the
Athenceum, a most able temperance and literary paper,
formerly published in this province ; and the ripe pro-
ductions of his skilful pen often found a place also in
temperance periodicals published in other parts of this
continent and in Great Britain. He kept himself posted
in respect to the progress of temperance reforms
throughout the world, and in the counsels of his breth-
ren, where he was ever heartily Avelcomed, he was able
to render most valuable and efficient service. Among
Dr. Cramp's contemporaries in temperance work were
many gentlemen of ability and power. Hon. Messrs.
J, W. Johnston and Creelman ; Messrs. W. M. Brown,
J. S. Thompson, Noble, Taylor, Scott, Monaghan and
Bedding ; Eevs. Messrs. McMurray, Christie, Mc Arthur
210
and Temple, were among the leaders in this movement.
Some of these, although among the oldest members of
the order, were much younger men than Dr. Cramp, but
none excelled him in devotion to the cause, nor yet in
the amount or efficient character of the work accom-
plished.
" To the Order of the Sons of Temperance, the credit
is due very largely of having moulded public sentiment
in respect to prohibition. Dr. Cramp was an unswerv-
ing advocate of this policy; and he permitted no oi^por-
tunity for giving expression to his views to pass unim-
proved. In 1854, during his first tex*m as Grand Worthy
Patriarch, the question was forced upon the attention of
the Provincial Legislature, by numerous petitions, ema-
nating from all sections of the province, and signed by
persons from all ranks and professions of the people,
including not a few of the victims of the intoxicating
bowl. At this crisis, Dr. Cramp came boldly forward to
champion the good cause, and delivered an address at
Temperance Hall, Halifax, before members of the Legis-
lature, bristling with facts and arguments, and distin-
guished by more than ordinary power and eloquence.
He portrayed with great ability the baneful effects flow-
ing to society from the use of intoxicating liquors, and
contended that prohibition was the only remedy. He
denounced the absurd system of ' Liquor Licenses ' in
the strongest language. The peroration to Dr. Cramp's
address was most eloquent and effective, and will bear
repetition.
" Our friend and brother has passed to his reward ;
who will fill his place as a temperance worker ? Others,
good men and true, seem ever to have more work in
connexion with their ordinary avocations than they can
well accomplish. Not to the censure of these, but to the
praise of our departed brother, be it said, he, although
2V1
ofttimes burdened with double and treble the work of
ordinary men, could always find time for temperance
work. We would not unduly exalt him, but his breth-
ren of the Order fondly and gratefully cherish his mem-
ory, and years ago promoted him to an equality with
the best of their number. ]S'o doubt, they would have
cheerfully given him the very first place.
"Eighty and six years, nearly, he numbered. His
was a long and eminently useful life. Serenely he
passed away, surrounded by loving friends. His depar-
ture suggests to our minds most forcibly the beautiful
lines of Dr. Bonar: —
" Fading away like the stars of the morning,
Losing their light in the glorious sun ;
So let me steal away, gently and lovingly,
Only remembered by what I have done.
" Needs there the praise of the love-written record ?
The name and the epitaph graved on the stone ?
The things that he lived for, let them be his story.
Only remembered by what he has done."
" A Prohibitory Liquor Law was passed by the Nova
Scotia House of Assembly in 1885 — the year followino-."
The paper from which these extracts are taken,
refers to an address delivered in the presence of
the members of the Nova Scotia Legislature in
Halifax in 1854. As that address contains
thoughts worth remembering, and also illustrates
Dr. Cramp's earnest and practical manner of deal-
ing with the vital questions of the day, we give
it entire : —
272
" Prohibitory Liquor Law.
"Address delivered in the Temperance Hall, Halifax, on
Thursday, February 23, 1854, by Eev. J. M. Cramp,
D.D., G-. W. P. of the Sons of Temperance of the
Province of Nova Scotia.
" Gentlemen, — The delegates composing the Temper-
ance Convention, v^ho have been sent to this city from
every part of the province, in order to adopt such meas-
ures as shall tend to secure the enactment of a Prohibit-
ory Liquor Law, have unanimously resolved that the
law required must prohibit the importation, manufac-
ture and sale of intoxicating liquors of all kinds, except
for certain purposes, to be distinctly provided for. It is
now my duty to present to you a statement of the
principles on which this demand is founded, and of the
reasoning by which it is sustained,
"I observe, in the first place, that the use of intoxicating
liquors is extensively injurious to society.
"Thirty years ago, it would have been necessary to
ai'gue the point. It is not necessary now. It is now
universally acknowledged that no healthy man stands
in need of these liquors — that they stimulate, but do not
nourish — that their habitual use produces many dis-
eases, aggravates all diseases, and, in innumerable
instances, prevents the possibility of cure — and that
tens of thousands die every year in consequence. It is
now universally confessed that the habitual use of these
liquors stupifies the intellect, destroys all delicacy of
feeling, and reduces the victim below the level of the
brute.
" Take a single case. Yonder goes a miserable man,
besotted, befooled by strong diink. Listen to his inco-
herent ravings. See the children mocking him as he
attempts to thread his crooked course along, or strug-
2'73
gles ineffectually in his kindred gutter. What sight so
melancholy, so humiliating ?
" That man has children at home — and a wife, whom
long ago he promised to love and to cherish. Why does
that wife now shudder at his approach ? Why do his
children run and hide themselves ? It was not so once.
Strong drink has done the mischief. It has turned the
husband and father into a demon. He is a man no
more. N^atural affection has died out of him. The lion
will provide for its mate ; the tiger will take care of its
young ; but the drunkard abandons both, and gives the
price of their bread to the rumseller, while the wife
pines away in Avretchedness, and the children, half-clad,
squalid, dirty, ignorant and uncontrolled, are rising up
to be outcasts and pests in society, and probably future
inmates of the jail.
" That man had character ; it is lost. He had friends ;
they disown him. He enjoyed comforts ; they are
handed over to the keeper of the groggery. He pos-
sessed health ; it is fast failing. He was once happy ;
happiness has long since fled. Hope then encouraged
him ; but all now is a cheerless blank. His body is
corrupted ; his mmd is a wreck ; he is hasting down to
ruin — a lost man — lost in both worlds.
"This is the case of myriads of the human race in all
countries. Whei'ever we turn our eyes, we see strong
tlrink in connection with misery, suffering, and evil of
every kind. What is it that sinks the proprietor into a
tenant ? What is it that sinks the tenant into a laborer ?
What is it that sinks the laborer into a pauper ? What
is it that cheats children out of their inheritances?
What is it that dashes many a noble ship against the
rocks, hurling passengers and crew into eternity ? Per-
haps some of yourselves remember the officer who left
this harbor in charge of a government vessel, and never
18
274
returned to it, he and all his crew — they were all drunk —
being lost with the vessel within a few hours after their
departure. How many similar losses, involving the
destruction of an immense amount of property, are con-
tinually occurring from the same cause — -justifying the
observation made some years ago by Capt. Brenton,
when giving his evidence before the Committee on
Drunkenness, that ' spirits are more dangerous than
gunpowder !' From what quarter may we not summon
witnesses ? Are they military or naval officers ? They
assure us that, in almost every instance, the disorderly
conduct which renders punishment necessary is trace-
able to the use of intoxicating liquors ? Are they mer-
chants, or manufacturers, or builders of palaces or rail-
roads ? They tell us of losses continually sustained by
the unsteadiness, negligence and insubordination of
drunken clerks and workmen. Are they physicians ?
They describe horrifying cases of delirium tremens, and
show us how the cholera, as it passes along from town
to town, always sweeps off the drunkards. Are they
lawyers ? They point to the strong boxes on their
shelves, containing title-deeds which once belonged to
sober men, and now belong to those whose fire-water
maddened them on to ruin. Are they clergymen ? They
refer to death-beds of anguish and horror inexpressible,
and the bitter wailings of penniless widows and orphans
— made penniless by the intemperance of their natural
protectors. Are they judges ? Every charge complains
of the increase of crime. Are they juries ? Their pre-
sentments, year after year, give the same unvarying
testimony. Are they officers of police, jailors, governors
of lunatic asylums and penitentiaries ? They bear wit-
ness, as with one voice, that three-foui'ths of the crime
committed in every country, and three fourths of the
pauperism, and consequently of the expenditure incurred
275
by society to punish the one and sustain the other, must
be laid to the charge of the bottle and the glass. You
build prisons — and intemperance fills them. You estab-
lish poorhouses — and they are occupied bj- the families
of inebriates. You erect lunatic asylums — and one-half
of their inmates have been prepared for those melan-
choly abodes by the use of strong drink. What is
worse, you license men to sell the brandy, the whiskey,
and the rum, and thus secure a continual succession of
inhabitants for the prisons, the poorhouses, and the
lunatic asylums.
"Crime has been mentioned. The worst of all crimes
— those springing from the fiercest passions of human
nature — and perpetrated in the most horrible manner,
are the fruits of intoxication. Is it an atrocious high-
way robbery ? or the murder of a father by his son — of
a son by his father — of a husband or a wife ? A thousand
to one, but alcohol is the exciting cause. It is estimated
that in the United States one murder, at least, is commit-
ted every day under the influence of intoxicating drinks.
" Grovernment, as the organ of society, cares for the
health, the property, the life of every member of the
community, and plans and strives to build up a prosper-
ous people. But strong drink is the great obstruction.
It stands in the way of all patriotism. It thwarts the
best intentions, blasts the brightest hopes, mocks and
balks the wisest efforts, and spreads desolation all
around. I do not wonder that a German author, writing
recently on this subject, has given to his work this title,
' Alcohol is Satan's blood.' I do not wonder at the expres-
sion used by the Swedish peasantry, who, as they go from
distillery to distillery, putting out the fires and stopping
the work, say to the owners, ' You shall make no more
hell-broth.' ' A touching incident,' says a Swedish cler-
gyman, in a letter written about four months tigo, ' has
276
taken place in my neighborhood. Some poor country
people have determined to go on foot to the King (360
miles). 'We must beg him,' they say, 'to take away
the brandy ; we are most of us lost drunkards, and when
the rich proprietors and farmers force upon us brandy,
as payment for our labour, then we have not strength to
withstand the temptation.' This thought has occurred
to the poor men themselves. Their words seem to me
inexpressibly affecting. It is an awakened conscience
which cries out loudly during the intervals between the
fits of intoxication. It begs for mercy and deliverance
from the evil. I could weep to hear them.'
" Let me now proceed to observe, that legislative enact-
ments for the regulation and control of the sale of intoxicating
liquors have proved an entire failure.
" Before entering on this part of the discussion, I will
briefly advert to the Temperance reform. The agitation
commenced about twenty-nine years ago, and quickly
spread through the United States, — thence to Great
Britain and her colonies, — and afterwards to almost
every part of the civilized world. Beginning with a
pledge of abstinence from ardent spirits, the pledge was
afterwards extended — and that is its present form — to
every kind of intoxicating drink. We bind ourselves by
a promise of total abstinence ; we labour to induce others
to do so — especially those who have fallen under tempta-
tion ; and we combine for mutual encouragement and
aid, and the effective employment of effort. Such is our
simple plan of operation.
" The object obtained at once the advocacy of a large
number of the wise and good, of all classes, and of every
variety of thought and profession. Talent, learning,
benevolence, and piety, consecrated their energies to the
cause, with zeal and perseverance unexampled. True,
there has been opposition — for everything good, espe-
2Y7
cially if it wears the appearance of novelty, is sure to be
opposed. Eidicule, sarcasm, and argument have been by
turns employed. Many have stood aloof, who ouo-ht to
have given in their adhesion, and the friends of temper-
ance have been sometimes taunted with the quixotic and
hopeless nature of the enterprise. But they have held
on. And now the Temperance reform is a ' great fact,'
and the Temperance power in the community is a power
that cannot be safely slighted. We have been accustomed
to hear of the ' three Estates ' of the realm— the Queen,
the Lords, and the Commons; our brethren of the press
contend that they constitute a 'fourth Estate ' — and truly
great is the power of the press — its claims may be con-
ceded. The Temperance power may as reasonably be
called the 'fifth Estate'; it will influence the rest, and
ultimately leaven all society.
"The success of our endeavours has greatly encouraged
us. How many have been restored to themselves^ — to
their families — to their social position ? How many more
have been turned back, even when they had reached the
very edge of the precipice ! — How many have been pre-
served, who would have otherwise fallen ! and how de-
lightful is the union of men of all parties, sinking for the
time their difterences, in order to j^romote the common
good ! In our Temperance organizations, we admit no
recognition of each other's religious or political opinions ;
but as our respective principles and objects, tend to pro-
mote the further development of talent and power in
various forms, we avail ourselves of the advantage, and
secure the results. The characteristics of diftering, and
opposite parties are harmoniously united in this glorious
cause. The prudence and caution of one — the dashing
energy of another — the business tact of a third, are hap-
pily combined. Logic comes from this side, rhetoric
from that ; here, is enthusiasm ; there, is persevering
278
diligence. This honest fellowship is doubtless the great
secret of our success. May it ever remain unbroken !
" But we are checked, if not disheartened, by the ap-
palling extension of the traffic. We reclaim one, and the
drunkard-manufactories send out two in his place. So
powerful is the temj^tation, and so contagious is the
habit, that the establishment of a groggery is inevitably
followed by the slaughter of its victims, and the conse-
quent wretchedness of those who are dependent on them.
" Contemplating these effects, we cannot but wonder
that men bearing the Christian name should engage in
the traffic — and that they should continue in it after the
effects have been ascertained. For those effects are not
occasional. They are not accidents, which may or may
not occur. They are the natural and necessary results
of the traffic in intoxicating di'inks. Plant a grog-shop
anywhere, and you have founded a nursery of poverty
and a school for crime.
"All this has long been mournfully evident. What is
the proposed remedy ? It is license ! The sale shall be
regulated, controlled, placed under supervision ! Now
what is this but legalising it — giving it a place and a
standing — making it form part of the government ar-
rangements of the country ? And be it borne in mind
that it is legalizing that which is sure to produce poverty
and crime, and to demoralize society. Was it imaginable
that by this means the traffic would be lessened ? Was
this the way to put down drunkenness ? As well might
you attempt to tie up the whirlwind with a thread, or to
put out the light of the sun with an extinguisher ! The
history of the license system speaks volumes. It demon-
strates most clearly and convincingly the futility and
folly of the attempt.
"No ! The suppression of the traffic in intoxicating liquors,
except for manufacturing, mechanical, or medicinal purposes,
2V9
and for the services of religion, is the only sure remedy for the
evils with which society is afflicted through the use of those
liquors.
"If the question of revenue be mooted, it is sufficient
to reply, that in this country the amount (from twelve to
fifteen thousand pounds annually,) is too small to deserve
consideration. But were it ten times as much, the argu-
ment would not be affected. A heathen monarch may
instruct us. When the late Emperor of China was soli-
cited to legalize the sale of opium, and it was suggested
that a large revenue would accrue therefrom, he said —
'It is true, I cannot prevent the introduction of the
flowing poison ; gain-seeking and corrupt men will, for
profit and sensuality, defeat my wishes ; but nothing will
induce me to derive a revenue from the vices and misery of my
people.'' It may be further observed, that in the event of
prohibition, there will be an increase of revenue from
other quarters, as more money will be spent on necessary
and useful articles, the introduction of which into the
country is one of the sources of public income.
" In asking for the prohibition of the traffic, we are
not bringing forward a new thought. It is no modern
innovation. At the settlement of G-eorgia, nearly 120
years ago, the importation of rum was prohibited, and in
order to secure obedience, trade with the West Indies
was forbidden. Negro slavery was forbidden at the same
time. They were classed together.
" In the course of the debates on the Gin Act, 1743,
when the distillers flooded London with their poison,
drunkards lay in heaps in the streets, and Government
was defied by the mob, the celebrated Lord Chesterfield
addressed the House of Lords in the following terms : —
'■^Luxury, my Lords, is to be taxed, but z^zce prohibited,
let the difficulty in the law be what it will. Would you
lay a tax upon a breach of the ten commandments ? Would
280
not such a tax be wicked and scandalous ? Would it not
imx)ly an indulgence to all those who could pay the tax ?
Yice, my lords, is not properly to be taxed, but sup-
pressed ; and heavy taxes are sometimes the only means
by which that suppression can be attained. Luxury, or
that which is only pernicious by its excess, may very
properly be taxed, — that such excess, though not strictly
unlawful, may be made more difficult. But the use of
those things which are simply hurtful in their own
nature, and in every degree, is to be prohibited. None,
my lords, ever heard, in any nation, of a tax upon theft or
adultery, because a tax implies a license granted for the use
of that which is taxed, to all who are willing to pay for it.
Drunkenness, my lords, is universall}^, and in all circum-
stances, an EVIL, and therefore ought not to be taxed, but
punished. The noble lord has been pleased kindly to in-
form us, that the trade of distilling is very extensive —
that it employs great numbers — and they have arrived
at exquisite skill — and therefore the trade of distilling is
not to be discouraged ! Once more, my lords, allow me
to wonder at the different conceptions of different under-
standings. It appears to me that since the spirits which
distillers produce are allowed to enfeeble the limbs, vitiate
the blood, pervert the heart, and obscure the intellect, that
the number of distillers should be no argument in their
favor, — for I never heard that a law against theft was re-
pealed or delayed, because thieves were numerous ! It
appears to me, my loi-ds, that really, if so formidable a
body are confederate against the virtue or the lives of their
fellow-citizens, it is time to put an end to the havoc, and
to interpose, whilst it is yet in our power, to stop the
destruction. So little, my lords, am I affected with the
merit of that wonderful skill which distillers are said to
have attained, that it is, in my oj)inion, no faculty of
great use to mankind to prepare palatable poison; nor
281
shall I ever contribute my interest for the reprieve of a
murderer, because he has, by long practice, obtained great
dexterity in his trade. If their liquors are so delicious
that the people are tempted to their own destruction, let
us, at least, my lords, secure them from their fatal
draught, by bursting the vials that contain them. Let us
CaUSH AT ONCE THESE ARTISTS IN HUMAN SLAUGHTER,
WHO HAVE RECONCILED THEIR COUNTRYMEN TO SICKNESS
AND RUIN, AND SPREAD OVER THE PITFALLS OF DE-
BAUCHERY SUCH BAIT AS CANNOT BE RESISTED ! '
"■ In 1833, it was resolved by the American Union —
and the resolution was adopted in various parts of the
United States — ' that the traffic in ardent spirits is mor-
ally wrong, and ought to be abandoned throughout the
world.'
" A select committee was appointed by the House of
Commons on the 3rd of June, 1834, on the motion of J. S.
Buckingham, Esq., ' to inquire into the extent, causes,
and consequences of the prevailing vice of intoxication
among the labouring classes of the United Kingdom, in
order to ascertain whether any legislative measures can
be devised to prevent the further spread of so great a
national evil.' The following passages are extracted
from the Report of that Committee : —
" The ultimate and prospective remedies which have
been strongly urged by several witnesses, and which they
think, when public opinion shall be sufficiently awakened
to the great national importance of the subject, may be
safely recommended, include the following : —
"The absolute prohibition of the importation from any
foreign country, or from our own colonies, of distilled
spirits in any shape.
" The equally absolute prohibition of all distillation of
ardent spirits from grain, the most important part of the
food of man in our own country.
282
" The restriction of distillation from all other materials,
to the purposes of the arts, manufactures and medicine ;
and the confining the wholesale and retail dealing in such
articles to chemists, druggists, and dispensaries alone."
" Sufficient evidence has now been produced to show-
that, in asking for a prohibitory liquor law, we are not
bringing forward a novel and unheard-of project.
"But it will be asked, '7s it right to enact a law that will
interfere to so great an extent with property 1 ' Let that ques-
tion be met by another — '7s the traffic right V Is it right
to sell, for drinking purposes, an article, the use of which
is followed by such destruction ? Is it right for a man
to derive his living from that which spreads disease,
poverty, and death ? Is it right for a man to derive
his living from that which debases men's minds and
ruins men's souls'? Is it right for a man to derive his
living from that which destroys for ever the happiness
of the domestic circle ? Is it right for a 7nan to derive
his living from that which brings upon society three-
fourths of the crime and pauperism which distress it ? Is
it right for a man to derive his living from that which
does all this at once, and does it continually ?
"I have quoted, in substance, the language of Dr.
Wayland, President of Brown University. He adds — ' If
any man think otherwise, and choose to continue it, I
have but one word to say. My brother, when you order
a cargo of intoxicating drink, think how much misery
you are importing into the community. As you store it
up, think how many curses you are heaping together
against yourself. As you roll it out of your warehouse,
think of how many families each cask will ruin. Let
your thoughts then revert to your own fire-side, your
wife and your little ones ; look upward to Him who
judgeth righteously, and ask yourself, my brother, is
THIS RIGHT ? '
283
" Nearly a century ago, the gj-eat John Wesley, whose
authority is justly held in high esteem by many in this
assembly, wrote these words : — ' The men who traffic in
ardent spirit, and sell to all who buy, are poisoners
generally ; they murder his majesty's subjects by whole-
sale ; neither doth their eye pity or spare. And what is
their gain? Is it not the blood of these men? Who
would envy their large estates and sumptuous palaces ?
A curse is in the midst of them. The curse of Grod is on
their gardens, their walks, their groves ; a fire that burns
to the nethermost hell. Blood, blood, is there; the foun-
dation, the floor, the walls, the roof, are stained with
blood.'
" This is strong language. But it may not be reason-
ably diluted, unless it can be shown that the facts are not
as they are alleged. And that cannot be. The facts are
not to be denied. Admit them, and the conclusion fol-
lows. That conclusion is, that the traffic, except for the
purposes which have been mentioned, is morally wrong.
Now, that cannot be politically expedient or right, which
is morally wrong. Consequently, it becomes the duty of
the State to interfere and remove the evil.
" The right of the State to interfere cannot be fairly
questioned. ' The right,' say the Committee of the House
of Commons to whose Eeport I have already referred,
' The right to exercise legislative interference for the
correction of any evil which aff'ects the public weal can-
not be questioned without dissolving society into its
primitive elements, and going back from the combined
and co-operative state of civilization, with all its whole-
some and lawfully-imposed restraints, to the isolated and
lawless condition of savage and solitary nature.'
" Nor can it be fairly alleged that the State has no
right to intei-fere with a man's use of his property. He
may use it as he pleases, most certainly, but not so as to
284
injure his neighbour or prejudice the interests of society
at large. When that use becomes an injury, a mischief, a
nuisance, society interferes and puts a stop to it. This
is done continually. Lotteries have been abolished,
though once they yielded considerable revenue to the
Government : they were found injurious to society, and
were put down. Gambling houses are declared nuisances.
An unwholesome manufacture, established in an inhabited
place, is held to be a nuisance, and the proprietor may be
compelled to remove it, at whatever inconvenience and
cost. Intra-mural cemeteries are now regarded as nuis-
ances, and the State shuts them up. Whatever a man
does, that is proved to be annoying to his neighbours, or
detrimental to their property or health, he may be for-
cibly prevented from continuing to do, by the strong arm
of the law. When the cholera was raging in the city of
Washington, the authorities passed the following resolu-
tion : — ' Resolved, That the vending of ardent spirits, in
whatever quantity, is considered a nuisance, and, as such,
is hereby directed to be discontinued for the space of
ninety days from this date.' In the opinion of some, this
was a high-handed interference with private rights ; but
the necessity of the case justified it, for the authorities
had discovered that ardent spirits wei-e to the cholera as
fuel to the fire.' The only wonder is, that they were not
induced, by the good effects of the measure, to declare
the vending of ardent spirits a perpetual nuisance. Their
successors, I am happy to say, are preparing to do it
now.'
" The following decision of the Chief Justice of the
State of Maine, which was concurred in by the full bench,
places the matter in a clear and satisfactory point of
view : —
" 'The State, by its legislative enactments, operating
prospectively, may determine that articles injurious to
285
the public health or morals shall not constitute property,
within its jurisdiction. It may come to the conclusion
that spirituous liquors, when used as a beverage, are pro-
ductive of a great variety of ills and evils to the people,
both in their individual and social relations. That the
least use of them for such a purpose is injurious, and
suited to produce, by a greater use, serious injury to the
comfort, morals, and health ; that the common use of
them for such a purpose, operates to diminish the pro-
ductiveness of labor ; to injure the health ; to impose
upon the people additional and unnecessary burdens ; to
produce waste of time and property ; to introduce disor-
der and disobedience to law ; to disturb the peace, and to
multiply crimes of every grade. Such conclusions would
be justified by the experience and history of man. If a
Legislature should declare that no person should acquire any
property in them, for such a purpose, there would be no
OCCASION FOR ANY COMPLAINT THAT IT HAD VIOLATED
ANY PROVISION OP THE CONSTITUTION.'
" Another question is anxiously asked — 7s it practic-
able f It may be answered by an appeal to facts. In
the youngest-born of civilized nations (the Sandwich
Islands) the manufacture and sale of ardent spirits were
prohibited by law more than twenty years ago, under a
heavy penalty, and the prohibition remains in full force.
When permission was asked to sell to foreigners only,
not to natives, the Governor's reply was, 'To horses,
cattle, and hogs you may sell rum, but to real men you
must not on these shores.'
" The sale of intoxicating liquors is prohibited in
Vermont. It is prohibited in Ehode Island. It is pro-
hibited in Massachusetts. It is prohibited in the Terri-
tory of Minnesota. It will soon be prohibited in the
State of New York, in Pennsylvania, and in New
Jersey. The Southern States are Avaking up. The
286
Western States are roused. In a few years' time, tlie
* Maine Liquoi* Law "will become a ' United States Liquor
Law," and that vast country will be delivered from the
abomination of the traffic. The deliverance will be
shortly accomplished in Canada (I know some of the
Temperance men of that Province — they are resolute,
persevering men — and they will not be balked), and in
New Brunswick. Shall it not be simultaneously accom-
plished here?
"As to the practicability and effect of the measure,
take the Hon. Neil Dow's testimony, given at the last
Annual Meetingof the American Temperance Union.
"You may go up and down the State of Maine, and
not find a place where liquors are exposed for sale. The
wholesale trade in Maine stopped instantly, upon the pas-
sage of this law."
"I may remark here, that one of the distillers, whose
establishment was thus closed, was afterwards so pleased
with the beneficial opei-ation of the law, that he declared,
if he had ten distilleries, each worth $10,000, he would
willingly give them, to secure such excellent results.
That man deserves a niche in the temple of Fame !
" Let us hear Mr. Dow further, ' The retail trade is
now as disreputuble as picking pockets or stealing sheep. An
action for libel would lie against a man for calling another
• rumseller,' as quickly as for the other. Intemperance
ceased almost immediately, and the begging and wretch-
edness consequent upon it. They fined the rumseller
instead of the drunkard, and filled the lockups, of which
there are eighteen in Portland, which were full under
the old law, with barrels and demijohns, instead of men.
Every respectable man quitted the business when it be-
came unlawful.'
'• It may be said that Mr. Dow is a partisan, and that
28Y
he will necessarily speak in favour of his own scheme.
We can obtain information from other quarters.
" Do you ask, what have been the effects of the law in
reference to crime ? Crime has been reduced 38 per cent,
in Lowell, 30 per cent, in Springfield, and even three-
fourths in some other places. At Burlington, and other
places in Vermont, the jails have been emptied.
" Does your inquiry relate to pauperism ? At Portland,
the amount levied for the relief of the poor has been
lowered from five dollars to one — or in that proportion.
" Do you ask about industry ? The contractors on the
St, Lawrence and Atlantic Eailroad inform us that
whereas before the passing of the law they could not
rely on more than two-thirds of any given number of
men, because the remainder would be away drinking, they
can now dejjend on from forty-five to forty-eight out of
fifty.
"Is ta3:ation the object of inquiry? At Fairfield,
Maine, a town of 2400 inhabitants, there were eighteen
dram-shops. Fourteen of them were closed as soon as
the law went into operation ; the constables used their
peculiar methods of persuasion in closing the others.
And now for the fruits. The pau2)er-tax has been reduced
from $1100 to $300. And what have the men of Fairfield
done with this saving ? They have added S600 to their
school-fund. The people of Fairfield are ' wise in their
generation.*
" Once more. Is it asked, what have been the effects
on peace and order ? The experience of the town of
Augusta may be adduced. The police of that town used
to be called out a hundred nights in the year. In six
months after the law taking eftect, they had not been
called out once.
" At Agricultural Associations, and public gatherings
in general, intemperance formerly prevailed to a great
288
extent. Governor "Wright of Indiana attended the last
State Fair in Vermont, and expressed his great surprise
that during the two. days of the fair he had not seen one
man drunk. How was that? The Vermont Liquor Law
had recently taken effect.
" These few cases are specimens of hundreds of the
like kind that might have been produced.
" We do not say that the race of drunkards will be
altogether abolished by a prohibitory liquor law. We
do not say that there will not be found men determined
to perpetuate that race, at all risk, whatever it may cost,
and whatever ruin it may bring down upon their fellow
creatures. We do not say that rum will not find its way
into certain holes and corners, and that depraved beings
will not creep into those holes and corners to drink it —
even as thieves and murderers jjerjDetrate their deeds of
infamy under cover of the darkness. But we do say that,
it will be a great thing to drive intoxicating liquors into
concealment, and to make it disgraceful to use them. As
one has jnstly remarked —
" Take away the lawfulness of the trafl&c, and that
moment its respectability goes along with it.
" Take away the lawfulness of the traffic, and that
moment its morality deserts it.
" Take away the lawfulness of the traffic, and that
instant its guilt and criminality become strangely appa-
rent.
" Take away the lawfulness of the traffic, and the out-
lawed vendor holds rank with the smuggler in an illicit
trade."
"It has been said that we are not prepared for the law,
and that, if passed, it will not be kej^t. I deny the fact —
and I repel the insinuation. Temperance men have been
long prepared, and, as has been already observed, they
are no insignificant power in the community. Pass the
289
law, and you will at once find a people prepared to carry
it out through all its issues. Those who are indifterent
now will take their stand by the law then, because it is
law. A bad law cannot be sustained : but who will dare
to say that Prohibitory Liquor Law is a bad law ? Who
will venture to plead for drunkard-manufactories ? Who
will be so far forgetful of himself, and so lost to all sense
of honor and right as to maintain that it is a violation of
freedom to deprive a man of the power of impoverishing
and ruining his neighbour — body and goods — mind and
heart — for time and eternity ? No ! All honourable
and true-hearted men will proclaim it a good law, and
will watch over it and secure its observance. I have not
so mean an opinion of the people of Nova Scotia as to
fear a contrary result.
'' This, Gentlemen, is our case. We maintain, that the
use of intoxicating liquors is extensively injurious to
society — that the attempt to regulate and control the
sale of those liquors by legislative enactments has proved
an utter failure — and that the suppression of the traffic,
except for certain specified purposes, is the onlj^ sure
remedy.
" Gentlemen of the Legislature, — Petitions for the
suppression of this traffic are about to be presented to
you, containing upwards of thirty thousand signatures of
the people of Nova Scotia ; and we could tell you of many
thousands more, who, though their names are not appen-
ded to the petitions, desire from their inmost souls the
success of the cause. The petitioners are of all ranks,
and of every profession, calling, and religious denomina-
tion in the province. Among them are many drunkards,
who, while they confess their inability to resist the temp-
tation, will hail the passage of the law as the harbinger
of their deliverance. Some of them are actually engaged
in the traffic. So general is the desire for a prohibitory
19
290
law, that in some places only one in ten, in others only
one in twenty-five have declined to sign the petitions.
There has not heen shown such unanimity before in this
country, on any subject whatever. These, then, are the
petitions of the people — not of a few, nor of the minority.
We are assured that nine-tenths of the adult population
of Nova Scotia are in favour of the proj)Osed law. Pub-
lic opinion was never so loudly, so generally expressed.
Surely, the old adage is now verified — vox populi, vox
Dei: — we trust that you will reverently obey.
"This is not the first time your interference has been
sought. Again and again have the friends of Temper-
ance entreated you to interpose — though as yet without
success. We approach you once more — in greater num-
bers — and in full confidence that we shall at length pre-
vail. The request we prefer is no selfish one. We ask
for no grant of public money ; — we ask for no favour — no
monopoly — no exclusive rights — no preference over
others. But we ask you to do a patriotic deed ; — to free
your country from an intolerable nuisance ; — to hear the
prayers of the wretched ones who implore your aid ; —
and to promote the health and happiness of the people,
the general prosperity of the country, and the interests
of knowledge, morality, and religion, by giving the sanc-
tion of law to a measure which is as just as it is gener-
ous, — which will benefit all, and do harm to none.
" What is our desire for Nova Scotia and its inhabit-
ants ? We long to see our country freed , wholly freed
from the bondage and curse of intemperance : — her states-
men and judges, and magistrates, free — her halls of legis-
lation and her civic councils, free — her clergy, and
physicians, and lawyers, fi-ee — her merchants, free — her
yeomen, and all the people, free — all free !
" And that this our desire may be accomplished, we
ask you, Gentlemen, to grant the prayer of the petitions
291
which will be presented to j^ou, and to give the country
a sound, unviistakeahle^ efficacious Prohibitory Liquor
Laav."
To show the kindly feeling toward him by the
other active workers in the same good cause, a
resolution passed at a meeting of the G-rand Divi-
sion in 1866 is also added. And it is worthy of
note that those noble men, banded together to
overthrow the common enemy of the common
country, did not allow any difference in politics
or creeds to stand in the way of kindly regard or
harmonious action for the common weal.
" To the Most Worthy Associate, Eev. Br. Cramp.
"Worthy Bro.: —
" Your brothers of this Grand Division, in G-rand
Division assembled, beg to congratulate you on your
elevation to the office of Most Worthy Associate of the
National Division of North America ; and would express
our pleasure that to you has been committed the super-
vision of the several Grand Divisions of the British
American Provinces during the divisional term.
" We would embrace the opportunity, while thus ten-
dering to you our congratulations, to give expression to
our admiration of your wisdom and ability evinced in ad-
vancing the interests of our Order, and of your zeal
and devotion in the cause of Temperance.
" We cannot overlook the fact that, notwithstanding
the multitudinous duties of your profession, your vener-
able presence has frequently graced the sessions of this
Grand Division, guiding us in our deliberations with words
of wisdom.
" That you may long continue ' a live member of our
292
Order, wearing tlie honors and performing the duties of
the several branches with which your name has been
so long and so honorably associated,' is our sincere
prayer.
" Be pleased, therefore, to receive our hearty congra-
tulations, in Love, Purity, and Fidelity.
" Henry A. Taylor,
" Grand Worthy Patriarch.
" Patrick Monaghan,
" Grand Scribe.
"North Sydney, C.B., 25th July, 1866."
CHAPTER XY.
SERVICES RENDERED IN AID OF THE iflSSIONARY
CA USE.
" With others, he held one end of the rope by which the Mis-
sionaries descended the shaft, to work the gold mine that had
been opened in the distant East." — Kirtland.
Missionary effort, in all its branches, always
received a large share of attention and interest
from Dr. Cramp, but perhaps his greatest enthu-
siasm on this subject, was reserved for the Foreign
Missionary enterprise. This can be traced back to
a very early period in his history, as, in the year
1819, we find the young pastor of Dean Street
Church seriously weighing the important question
of personal consecration to that department of labor
in the Redeemer's Kingdom.
A visit from Mr. "Ward, of Serampore, one of "The
Immortal Three," — Carey, Marshman and Ward —
seems to have been the means of arousing greater
earnestness, and awakening feelings on this subject
of which he had hitherto been unconscious.
The occasion was the week of Missionary Anni-
versaries, held in London, and the record of each
294
day, in the journal of that period, is of special in-
terest, as affording some insight into motives and
desires that had much influence all through life.
On June 25, 1819, he writes : —
" This has been indeed a glorious week, which, I trust,
I shall long remember with gratitude . . . On Wed-
nesday morning we met in the City of London Tavern,
to hold the Anniversary of the Baptist Missionary Society.
It was, on the whole, a pleasing time. At eleven o'clock
we met at Great Queen Street Chapel, Lincoln's Inn
Fields. Mr. Edmonds pi-eached from Eom. xvi., 14, 15.
The sermon was too argumentative and too long, extend-
ing to an hour and three quarters. But the crowning
part was the presence of Mr. Ward, one of our mission-
aries from Serampore. I cannot describe my feelings
when I saw him ascend the pulpit stairs after the sermon.
There is so much Apostolic simplicity in his countenance,
and so much seriousness and fervor in his address, that
one cannot but be interested in him. He delivered a
short address after the sermon, and concluded in prayer.
In the evening, we met at Zion Chapel, which was com-
pletely filled by six o'clock. Mr. Ward preached from
Acts xxvi., 18. ' From the power of Satan unto God.' It
was rather an address than a sermon, describing the in-
fluences of Satan on the principles and practices of the
heathen world, in a strain of animated and pathetic elo-
quence, which affected the audience in a manner which I
never saw equalled before. £330 were collected in the
day for the mission. Thursday evening, at six o'clock, we
met at Albion Chapel, Moorfields, when an encouraging
report was read on the state of the Mission. Prayers
were offered, and a Missionary address delivered by Mi-.
Ward, This also was a delightful time, and £60 were
collected. This morning I reached the tavern between
295
five and six o'clock, where we breakfasted, and held the
meeting of the Irish Society, which lasted till between
eleven and twelve o'clock. A very interesting report
was read, and excellent speeches delivered ; among them
was one from Mr. Ward. Some thoughts I must notice.
The chief thing insisted on by Mr. "Ward, in his addresses,
has been the necessity of Divine influence; he has been
to India, and seen the necessity, and seems, indeed, full
of the subject. Many of us will have learned an impor-
tant lesson from this. Again, at these meetings my
mind has been more affected than it ever has been before.
I seem to have attained a greater degree of spiritual sen-
sibility. God be praised for it.
" Once more ; my Missionary feelings are more rou.sed ;
I cannot tell how I feel, but it is very sensibly for the
salvation of the heathen. Sixty millions of British subjects
in Bengal, perishing in idolatry — what a thought! If I
love Christ, and the souls of men, what can I say but
* Here am I, send me. ' My mind is all confusion. I
am looking up to the Lord, — many difficulties stand in
the way: He will direct me."
Returning to his own quiet field, ministerial en-
gagements seem again wholly to engross every
hour, but thought was busy, as the following re-
ference to the subject reveals : —
" My mind is still incessantly occupied with thoughts
on the heathen. A pamphlet, written by Messrs. Hall
and Newell, American Missionaries, has increased the
flame. I desire to give myself up to G-od ; for His work,
whether at home or abroad. I am utterly insufficient.
The importance of my office sometimes presses on me
with great weight, and if it has no other eff'ect, I trust this
will result, that I am made more prayerful. When I
think on the heathen, their wretched condition, and the
296
small number of Christian missionaries (494 among
600,000,000 immortal souls) my soul is all on fire, and I
long to be the instrument, in the hands of God, of rescu-
ing them from their degraded condition. I flatter myself
that I could be of some use in forwarding the transla-
tions, and seem quite ready to go as soon as Providence
opens the way. On the other hand, I consider my situ-
ation at Dean Street, the manner in which the Great
Head of the Church is blessing my labors, and the attach-
ment that exists between the people and myself To this
I add my endearing connections at home, and the diffi-
culties and dangers of a missionary life. Putting these
things together, I scai-cely know what to do, and yet I
trust I have so learned Christ, that whatever may prove
evidently to be His will, will also be mine, whether it be
to stay or go : for the indications of His will, I am seek-
ing, and shall say nothing to anyone for sometime. It
may be only a momentary excitement ; if so, it will, in
time, subside.
" I wish my motives to be pure, whatever my final de-
termination. In order to possess myself fully with every
view of the subject, I am reading the periodical accounts,
in which I find much instruction and profit."
Though so evidently his heart's desire at this
time, the guidance thus earnestly sought, did not
point to foreign service.
He was to influence others, and impart much of
the eager enthusiasm that in after life glowed as
fervently as in these early days, but the Master had
chosen other portions of His vineyard for him to
cultivate, and the servant had only one wish — to
do his appointed work wherever placed Many
circumstances combined to strengthen and perpe-
tuate the deep interest always felt.
297
Mrs. Cramp's father, Mr. Barls, was for a long
period closely identified with the Baptist Mission-
ary Society, and the following record taken from a
Memorial published at the time of his death, shows
the extent of services rendered by him, which,
doubtless, brought the subject into constant prom-
inence among his family connections : —
" At an early period of the history of the Baptist Mis-
sion, Mr. Burls' name appears as a member of its com-
mittee. He was, in fact, for some time the only member
resident in London, the affairs of the society being then
managed by brethren in the country, and chiefly by the
ministers composing the Northamptonshire Association.
Having become acquainted with Mr. Fuller, a very affec-
tionate friendship was soon formed between them, which
was productive of much advantage to the mission.
" Mr. Burls' services were many and great. His ex-
tensive knowledge of business, his prudence and sound
judgment, qualified him for great usefulness to the
society.
" Acting for many years as agent for the mission in
London (and he held the office of treasurer in the years
1819 and 1820), its pecuniary concerns were much bene-
fitted by his activity and wise management. By allow-
ing the missionaries in India to draw their bills upon
him, and thus becoming personally responsible in their
respective amounts ; by receiving at his house the minis-
ters who, at that time, annually visited the Metropolis to
collect subscriptions, and by various other acts of gen-
erous hospitality and zeal, he evinced the lively interest
which he felt in the society, and his concern to conse-
crate to the Lord his talents and substance. On the
occasion of the fire at Serampore, he collected in London
nearly one thousand pounds towards repairing the loss ;
298
sucli efforts procured for him the confidence and esteem
of his associates in this good work.
" Sutcliff, Eyland, and others, whose memory is blessed,
were his fellow-laborers and friends, and Fuller said of
him, 'Mr. Burls is himself a host.' His exertions on be-
half of the society wei-e continued with unabated zeal till
his retirement from active life, and he manifested to the
last a deep concern for its success."
Such an example could not but enlist the ardent
sympathy of one so like-minded as Mr. Cramp, and,
doubtless, added another link to the chain of influ-
ences that became stronger as years passed on. A
visit from Eev. "W. Knibb (called " the friend of the
enslaved"), while residing at Thanet, and, later on,
during the pastorate at Hastings, an interview
with Rev. J. M. Philippo, aroused interest in
another branch — the Jamaica Mission — a corres-
pondence being maintained with the last named
missionary till the close of Mr. Phillippo's long
and useful life.
Missionary literature always occupied a larg-e
department in the library ; every available source
of information being carefully consulted, when
new fields were opened up, and, as in turn the
toiling heralds passed on to their reward, the re-
cords of their lives added fresh inspiration. During
many changes, at each successive stage of his his-
tory, an unvarying attachment to the cause led to
constant effort in its behalf, combined with endea-
vors to arouse the same interest in others. Shortly
after coming to reside in Wolfville, the monthly
missionary meetiug came under Dr. Cramp's direc-
299
tion, and was conducted by him until his retire-
ment from public labor. To maintain and increase
the interest of these services, (held on the first
Sunday evening of each month) became an object
of constant endeavor.
Numerous w^ere the publications laid under tri-
bute for this purpose, and very wide-spread, and
unsectarian the information presented to the large
and appreciative congregation that usually assem-
bled. Many will remember the enthusiasm with
which the attention of the hearers was directed to
whitening harvest-fields, and the persuasive elo-
quence employed to enforce the need of more
laborers. Some, now bearing the burden and heat
of the day, — successful workers in far distant India
and China, — attribute their first determination to
enter on this course to the unanswerable argu-
ments and earnest pleading then used to enforce
the great commission.
After his resignation of the presidency of Acadia
College, having more leisure at his command, Dr.
Cramp devoted much time to missionary corres-
pondence, especially after the formation of an inde-
pendent mission by the Baptists of the Maritime
Provinces. From the beginning of that enterprise,
he entered into its details with characteristic
ardor.
When the band of missionaries first left in 18Y3,
he went with them to New York, finding great
satisfaction in rendering such assistance and com-
fort as his presence afforded, " accompanying them
to the ship" with cheerful words of encouragement.
300
He then undertook the office of foreign secretary,
but apart from the necessary correspondence of a
business nature, his letters, expressive of personal
sympathy in their work, were numerous and much
valued.
"Writing shortly after their departure, he thus
addresses Rev. R. Sanford : —
"WoLFviLLE, Dec. 1, 1813.
" I suppose that you are now on the ocean, proceeding,
under God's care, to your destination. Few missionaries
sail under such j)leasing auspices. You have not only a
pleasant company of your own, but a duplicate in that of
your American friends, and there is no reason why you
should not become for the time being, a united, happy
family. I trust that your highest wishes in this respect
will be realized, so that it may not be unlikely that you
will be almost sorry when the voyage is ended, because
parting-time will come. I shall rejoice to hear also that
there has been a commencement of missionary work on
board, and that, at any rate, you have been able to keep
up worship and ' edify one another.' Be assured that
you are remembered, all of you, in many a church, and
at many a family altar. God forbid that we should cease
to pray for you."
Also, to Rev. Gr. Churchill, —
" This will find you at Rangoon, in the first bustle of
inquiry and preparation. All is new, but it does not
follow that ' all is beautiful.' Strange it may be, and
awkward, jDcrhajjs repulsive ; but all that is expected.
You have not gone to Burmah or to Siam to be pleased —
but to be profited, and to be useful.
" The preparatory work is rather a long process, and
in some respects it is dull ; but all work for God is good,
301
and our translators, who must have had many a dull
season in the search for proper words and phrases, could
only be helped on b}^ that thought. Cheer up, therefore,
and believe that ' grace sufficient' will be ready at hand,
as new cares and trials present themselves."
Again, to Mr. C, on the subject of Preparation.
"... Perhaps you are sometimes depressed on
account of slow progress. It takes so much time to get
ready for actual work. There is so little that can be
really done during this preparatory process. That is
true ; but the time spent in jsreparation is not lost time ;
it is the Master's time, and spent in His service. It is
necessarily so employed, because there is now no mira-
culous fitness to be attained. The Apostles were under
preparation during the whole period of the Saviour's
public life; and, even then, they had to 'tarry at Jeru-
salem ' till they should be ' endued with power from on
high.' Paul had to spend three years, or thereabouts,
in Arabia, where he went to school to the Saviour
Himself, and proved a i-emarkably apt scholar.
"Under some circumstances, God's servants have to
occupy situations not at all pleasant or agreeable, in
order that they may attain the knowledge and expe-
rience which their actual life's labour requires. It is
enough, however, if fitness be realized, whatever may
be the cost."
The country of Siam had been at first thought
of as the probable field for the establishment of
the new mission, and a long time was spent in
exploring several districts before any decision
could be arrived at. Much difl&culty and per-
plexity had to be encountered, under which the
missionaries are thus encouraged : —
" You are now engaged, I presume, in exploration.
302
You will probably meet with questions difficult of solu-
tion, and may be embarrassed by perplexities which will
be puzzling to human wisdom. But there are two con-
siderations of a relieving character. One is, there are
four of you, each possessing a peculiarity of talent and
qualification, and all bringing what they have into the
common stock. The darkness that appals one, may be
looked at hopefully by a second, and penetrated by a
third, and contemplated at last by all four with grati-
tude and joy and united ' Ebenezers.' The second con-
sideration is that Grod Himself is your friend, b}^ His
Word, which is a lamp to your feet at all times, casting
light on all subjects, — and, by His gracious permission,
to carry all doubts to the throne of grace, where they
may be dissolved much more easily and quickly than
had been feared. . . . There are, no doubt, special
difficulties connected with the enterprise, for Siam is one
of the devil's strongholds ; but it has to be undermined
or stormed, as the Loi"d shall direct, and perhaps our
detachment is to be the forlorn hope. Be it so, I trust
you are all prepared to take your stations, relying on
the power and faithfulness of the Great Captain of our
salvation. Some may fall in this war; but dying in
Christ's work is an honourable death, which will be fol-
lowed by ' glory and honour ' in the next world — not as
the rewards of merit, but as the gracious bestowment of
Him whose ' Well done, good and faithful servant ' is the
highest distinction that man can receive. . . , We
are waiting now for the results of your exploration.
The hardness of the task should not deter us, — God's
grace and spirit will be as mighty there as elsewhere,
but always by the preaching of the Gospel ; the cross of
Christ is the only medicine for human disease in all
lands ; it is unpalatable to depraved taste, but it must
be taken, and nothing else will cure."
?
f
303
To Mrs. Churchill.
•' Jan. 24, 1875.
" We have entered on another year, the events of
which are all unknown to us. Offering you the usual
salutations of the season, I conjoin with them the
expression of hope that it may be an active and useful
year in a missionary point of view. What may be the
year's developments, we cannot tell, but, standing ready
to follow the Lord's guidance, we may feel confident of a
favourable issue. No doubt, you are desirous of direct
missionary effort. May you not begin, as soon as your
knowledge of the language will allow, with individuals,
after the pattern of the Zenana work in India? So that,
before your husband shall be able to preach to a congre-
gation, you may talk to the women. If you get the ear
of one only, it will be a blessed thing. The work is
hard and difficult, I know, and Buddhism is like the
Chinese great wall, an effectual barrier — yet not effec-
tual against the power of the Lord. As soon as possible,
it will be desirable to talk the Gospel by the narration
of its main facts. Why did the Son of God become a
man and die ? Let some curiosity be excited. Genuine
enquiry may follow, and the usual process of conviction
take place. What a joy it will be to have a Siamese
woman exclaim, ' What must I do to be saved ?' and
then to guide her to the Cross ! I hope you will have
many experiences of that gladness."
Again : —
" I shall hope to hear favourable accounts when the
brethren return. But we must be prepared for difficul-
ties, discouragements, and temporary failures. Such
has been the history of the Church in all ages. Can we
wonder at it ? Our object is to turn men from darkness
to light, from the power of Satan to God. It is not to
304
be supposed that we shall have a smooth and easy time
of it, or that the eneray will allow us to go wholly
unmolested. He is a very dull scholar, or he would
have learned by this time that the Church is always a
gainer by trials, and that if he Avished her to be useless
it would be wise to let her alone. To the individual
Christian,
' Trials make the promise sweet'
And Churches often find that God has chosen them in
the furnace of affliction. These remarks will not have a
disheartening effect upon you, but they may possibly
help you to look forward to Assher's blessing — Deut.
xxxiii., 25. It comes to all God's servants, and suits all
their circumstances."
"July 23, 1875.
" The hospitable reception you met with at St. Thomas
must have been doubly cheering under your circum-
stances. How easy it is for the Lord to touch the hearts
of those to whom He has given the means, so that His
children may be well provided for. Abraham did well
to call the name of the place Jehovah-Jireh, ' The Lord
will see, or will provide ;' it matters not which transla-
tion is taken, for with Him to see is to provide. Our
God bears the name still, and we do well to trust Him.
' I will trust and not be afraid,' said one of the good
men of olden time. Adopt it as your motto — not in
word only, but in act and habit, and yours will be the
experience of Phil, iv., 6-7.
'' . . . So various are God's dispensations, yet always
just and wise and good, — and the good exists, though we
do not always see it. The Hebrew choir in the Temple
was continually singing, ' Praise the Lord, for He is
good, and His mercy endureth forever.' Let us always
believe it."
Some disappointment was felt by Dr. Cramp
305
when the enterprise, as far as Siam was con-
cerned, seemed hopeless, and had to be aban-
doned, the mission being finally established
among the Telugus. He thus expresses his
unabated interest in their surroundings :—
To Rev. R. Sanford.
'' Nov. 15, 1875.
"... I shall be glad to receive any remarks or
information respecting the structure of the Telugu lan-
guage. I wish to become as well acquainted as possible
with everything Indian. In my early years, I read all
that was published by our English Baptist Missionary
Society in their 'Periodical Accounts,' and gained a
pretty accurate knowledge of Hinduism and its effects.
I am revising and correcting that knowledge by the
perusal of modern publications. You will find that
Hinduism produces as deep moral debasement as
Buddhism, and that the system of caste is a diabolical
obstruction to improvement and freedom. When the
first convert was baptized, one of the missionaries
exclaimed, ' The chain of caste is broken ! Who can
mend it ?' Alas ! the breakage is very slight and local.
Nothing but the power of God can destroy that institu-
tion. Meanwhile, it is our duty to promote intellectual
improvement, and to seek the emancipation of our
fellow-men from slavery of all kinds."
Writing to a member of his family on this sub-
ject, about the same time, events transpiring in
India are thus referred to : —
"... The native Christians of Calcutta, of all
denominations^ held a meeting the other day, and
formed a plan of a United Church — government Episco-
pal, modified by Presbyterianism and Congregational-
20
306
ism ; the Bishop to have about the same power as the
Moderator of a Presbytery ; baptism to he by immersion,
and infant baptism optional. This is progress !
"■ I take the Friend of India, from which I gather a
large amount of information respecting that part of the
world."
The following words of counsel, as regards
theological training among the new converts,
may not be without interest : —
" . . . You have some young men under tuition.
I may remind you of two points of importance —
" 1. Teach the laws of Scripture interpretation. The
Bible is a peculiar book in contents, style and manner ;
its figurative language requires special attention. . . .
I dare say the Easterns think us "Westerns rather dull
and cold ; on the other hand, we Westerns deem the
Easterns somewhat wild, luscious and fiery. We need
the old motto, ' Medio tutissimus ibis.' 2. It will be
very useful to initiate the young men into the exposition
of Scripture by giving examples of running commenta-
ries, and showing them how to find out the meaning of
the sacred writers, and the truths taught by them. A
concordance is almost necessary to success in this exer-
cise, and it is not likely that you have one yet in Telugu.
But you can help them by using your English book.
The object of theological instruction is to teach the stu-
dent how to ascertain for himself the truths inculcated
by Paul, Peter and John.
"... The theological system you introduce must
be thoroughly biblical. The question is not what we
think, but what God teaches, — and to that teaching there
must be absolute submission ; it is not ours to reason,
but to believe and obey. The importance of a right
beginning in this matter cannot be over-estimated.
SOI
"... This reminds me of a duty which ought to
be regarded by missionaries, and which is better attended
to now than it was in the early years of missionary effort.
I refer to the training of converts in benevolence and
activity. Formerly, they were expecting to have every-
thing done for them ; but a gratifying change has been
accomplished, particularly in the American missions,
and the liberality of many of their Churches is very
exemplary. In new missions, it is exceedingly desir-
able to begin well. I would not import into them the
plans and usages of our Churches, and expect them to
be adopted as authoritative. I would rather join them
in an independent inquiry into New Testament order,
both in regard to belief and practice, and advise the
adoption of such methods as should be found to come
nearest to the Divine pattern.
" Converts should be taught how to manage church
affairs for themselves,"
Towards the close of the year 1876, the sad
intelligence of the death of the Rev. A, E,.
Crawley was received, and is thus referred to : —
"WOLFVILLE, Oct. 15, 1876.
" The first thought is death. Brother Crawley is dead.
He died at Liverpool, England, on Monday last, the 9th
inst. He was one of the best missionaries that America
has produced. Born in 1830 ; graduated, 1849 ; ordained,
1853. I gave him the charge at his ordination. The
Churches in Burmah will mourn greatly. Brother
Crawley entered the college in April, 1844, being then
fourteen years of age, so that he was only forty-six when
he died "■ in the midst of his days."
"We might have reasonably hoped for fifteen or
twenty years more of work, that is, for a person of ordi-
nary strength of constitution. All we can say is, It was
the will of God.
308
" There are ulterior purposes to be wrought out by
this dispensation which will be developed years hence,
though ivhen and hovj we know not. Yet those purposes
are ' unfolding every hour,' and is it not a marvellous
thing that the great Grod overrules all mortal things and
manages our mean affairs ? To think that our insignifi-
cant lives and histories form part in the grand schemes
of Heaven, and are known and calculated on, and plan-
ned out, so that every event occurs at the fixed time,
and falls into its proper place, and accomplishes its pre-
ordained purpose — bringing us worms of the earth into
fellowship with the ' High and exalted One,' gives dig-
nity to man, and invests the Redemption with glory
unspeakable. Perhaps you sometimes feel a sense of
isolation and loneliness, as though you were away and
forgotten. Do not dwell on it. The Churches here
remember you constantly, — at family altars, and social
gathei'ings. and public assemblies — and you can say of
the Father in Heaven, ' The Lord thinketh upon me.'
We cannot understand it, but we are assured of the fact.
Comprehended or not, we have a place in the mind and
heart of God, and he never forgets any one ! Therefore^
" comfort one another with these words." I do not feel
inclined to write on any other subject. This death
reminds us of first principles; we have an interest in
God — God has an interest in us. Let us cleave to Him
' with purpose of heart,' and ' work while it is called
to-day.' "
Rev. R. Sauford (Later).
" I was getting anxious about you, fearing that you
might be attacked by the Jeypore fever, and was very
thankful to hear of your safety. You live in a country
of perils, and may be stricken down any day ; and yet,
OEl the other hand, some men live to be old in India.
309
Dr. Carey left England in 1793, and never revisited it.
He died in 1834, in his 73rd year. Dr. Marshman was
within a few months of 70 when he died. The servant
of God is ' immortal till his work is done.' We need not
trouble ourselves about the length of life, or the time
and manner of death, ' my times are in Thy hand.' We
shall work for Grod as long as He pleases to employ us,
and He will not dismiss us before that time."
Rev. E. Sauford.
" Nov. 6, 1876.
" Mr. T., I obsei-ve, dwells at length on the desirable-
ness of preventing the native preachers from becoming
spoiled by association with white men. Let them be
enlightened, and suitablj'- qualified for their w^ork, but
let them retain their native simplicity— habits — mode of
life, let them live among the people, and be especially
careful to shun everything like a professional air. The
Gospel is plain and powerful, so must its preachers be."
To the same.
" Nov. 10, 1877.
" The last point referred to in your latest communica-
tion was the famine. The telegraphic reports from
India on that subject are more favourable, a fruitful
rain-fall having taken place, insomuch that contribu-
tions to the fund at the Mansion House (now amounting
to £450,000 sterling) are no more called for; but it may
be expected that individual cases of great distress may
still continue to occur, and it is very desirable that min-
isters should be able to administer relief in instances
coming under their own notice. The Baptist Missionary
Society recently remitted £800 to their missionaries for
this purpose, and other societies have taken similar
step. I sent a letter to the Christian Messenger, recom-
mending the Churches to take collections for this object.
310
and that the proceeds be remitted to oui' missionaries, to
be applied at their discretion. Something will be done.
The treasurer will send to you whatever amounts he
may receive, and it will be gratifying if, thereby, j^ou
should be able to render assistance to some who might
be overlooked in the formal distribution."
Some plans for increased liberality are adverted
to in the following letter to Rev. Gr. C. Churchill :
" . . . It is difficult to invent any plan by which
all the membership of our Churches should be brought
into simultaneous and voluntary action. If a govern-
ment determines to procure 5000 dollars in a district, it
levies a tax on the several properties, sufficient for the
purpose, and the thing is done ; but we have no power
to levy a tax, and a voluntary tax is a kind of anomaly.
There is a general impression that we are able to raise
the money needed, but many persons are much more
willing to 'believe that others have the requisite ability,
than that they themselves have it;' nevertheless, it may
be surely hoped that there will be found religion enough
in the churches to furnish the money called for. Eevived
godliness, made permanent, would meet the case, — for
christians would be ' willing of themselves,' as they were
in Apostolic times. So it must be the Loz'd's work, after
all, and that means that we must be brought into a state
of preparedness to do whatever the Master bids, to give
whatever He requires, to go wherever He directs, and to
suffer whatever He may lay upon us ; that is, whenever
all believers are really willing that the Lord shall do as
He pleases with them and theirs, things will be well in
Zion ; but it must come to that, all have to come to it, at
home and abroad. We are living in the dispensation of
the Spirit, and it will appear that the Spirit has power"
I
311
" Aug. 7, 1876.
" To the same.
"When I read your last letter and noted what vexa-
tions you endured through the laziness of your work-
men, and how you felt it necessary to take up the tools
and use your own energies and skill, I found myself pur-
suing a train of reflections on the duty and pleasnre of
employing in the Lord's cause all the opportunities and
acquirements we may possess. They are all entrusted
to us, and may some day come into use. You little
thought, when you learned the use of tools, that the time
would come when the Master would call for the employ-
ment of your skill, individually, for the promotion of His
cause. Yet so it was, and when you handled the plane,
the hammer, the chisel, etc., on that occasion, you really
handled them for Christ, and did missionary work. It
is pleasant and profitable to bear in mind that we are
ti-ustees for the Lord, in regard to whatever gratifica-
tion or power He may have bestowed upon us. All is
' by Him,' and all is 'for Him;' and it is condescension
in Him to make any use of us and ours for the advance-
ment of His interests. So let us ever be watching for
opportunities of doing something for the Lord. A rich
man one day said to me, ' Mine is the meanest of tal-
ents, — only gold and silver dust — yet the Saviour conde-
scends to use it, and I am thankful that it should be so
employed ;' you may say the same of your tools."
Under the pressure of severe illness, Mr. and
Mrs. Churchill are addressed in a joint letter, as
follows : —
" WoLFViLLE, Jan. 11, 1880.
" I had intended to write to you in the first week of
the year, but was hindered. It is not, however, too late
to express the usual wish of ' many happy returns.' And
312
how are they to be obtained ? God knows how. Perhaps
the sharp afflictions you have been called to endure, have
something to do with it. You remember the text ' Every
branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it,' and you may
possibly remember Cecil's anecdote of the tree cut almost
through, which, before the cutting, bore leaves only, —
afterwards it bore fruit. The pruning is followed by the
fruitrbearing. Such is the Lord's method — and it is as
kind as it is wise. You will know how to apply all this
to your individual cases.
"I hope to hear soon that a physician has been found, and
that his prescriptions and treatment have proved success-
ful by God's blessing. I was told that your particular
want was a skilled physician, but that for a time there
was none at hand. But our Heavenly Helper is always
at hand. He said, ' I am with you always." Do we
heartily be-lieve it ? And does om- belief show itself in
confiding expectant j^rayer.' Surely the Apostles ex-
pressed the need of every day, and every place, when
they said, increase our faith.' Let us not forget that the
Lord He means all says — all He promises — and always
keeps His word, according to our faith, as Jesus often said
when they went to Him to be healed, — He is ready,
whether we are, or not.
" We, none of us, aim high enough, or
draw lai'ge enough drafts on the Divine Bank. There,
as Montgomery says, is ' enough for all, enough for each,
enough for evermore.,
'' But we don't seem to think so ; we are familiar with
peradventures, and forget the shalls and wills of our God,
and His ever-abounding graciousness in regard to prayer.
" I am glad to hear from the reports of some who have
visited Bobbilli, that yom- town is a healthy, well-built
place, and that yom* compound is in a good spot. I trust
you will both be spared bj'' the Lord's mercy, to occupy
313
it, with renovated health, and with increasing usefulness.
May it be the birthplace of many souls."
'' WOLFVILLE, Oct. 31, 1881.
'' Your last was very acceptable. I would advise you
to keep your eye on those men of different tribes to
whom you refer. Your further acquaintance with them
may lead to interesting developments respecting Indian
religion and morals. If any further information is ob-
tained, favour me with the particulars. I believe that
wo are still very ignorant of much of the interior of the
Brahminical religion, and its influence on character. The
Hindoos have the credit of a philosophical turn of mind;
but I should judge that their lower classes are at a con-
siderable remove from anything that can be truly called
philosophy. You are not likely to gain further insight
into their arcana. • ' • " You have had trials in many
forms, and if the Lord keeps you still in the valley of
humiliation, it will be for good issues. See Eom. viii., 28.
. . . a jviy own health is as good as can be expected
by a man who is between eighty and ninety. I am get-
ting weaker daily, and have ceased to go up and down
stairs, my library and bed-room being on the same floor.
The grave will be lower still. I shall soon be there. Let
us all ' lay hold on eternal life,' and seek daily to be bet-
ter prepared for it !
" Grace and peace be with you, and with the dear
children.
" Yours faithfully,
" J. M. Cramp."
The time was drawing very near when these
expectations were to be realized. A few sentences
expressing the writer's views with regard to future
knowledge and service, taken from a letter on this
subject, may suitably close this series of extracts : —
314
" "We are accustomed to speak of Heaven as a state of
rest. It is i-atber a changed state of work, ' His servants
serve Him ' there. Here, we do not understand the nature
of heavenly work, only that it is doing something for God.
Still it is action. We are living in wonderful times.
There will be re-actions and struggles — for error, and
evil die hard; but we are on the eve of still greater
events, and those who reach Heaven, will not be ignorant
of them, for the branch of the Church in Heaven is ac-
quainted with the genei-al history of the branch on earth,
and celebrates its triumphs in hymns of joy."
The Rev. W. B. Boggs, now Principal of the
Theological Institution at Eamapatam, India, was
associated with this mission in its early history.
Many letters of this period were addressed to him,
chiefly occupied with the special characteristics of
the efforts then contemplated in Siam, one of
which offers the following suggestions : —
" WoLPViLLE, Nov. 30, 1874.
. . • " Although I know not where you are, I take
it for granted that the quickest way to find you is to send
this to Bangkok. 3
" I take this first opportunity of writing to place before
you some facts and considerations.
'' It appears that the Karens in Siam are not more
than 50,000 in number.
Ifc further appears that they are scattered over a wide
extent of country, reaching to some hundreds of miles.
" It also appears that they are very wandering in their
habits, and indisposed to settled abodes. Their villages
are very few.
" All this being assured, the inference is, that it would
be unwise and useless to expend all our missionary
315
strength on the Karens. The proper policy, I think, will
be to select a spot where a sufficient number of them may
be found, to warrant the establishment of a school, and
which may be near enough to other collections of Karens,
to furnish emjjloyment for the native preachers, who are
intending to jjass into Siam with our missionaries. They
may be immediately engaged in the work.
" I would suggest that the brethren and sisters now in
Savoy and Eangoon, might undertake the Karen depart-
ment.
" With regard to brother and sister Churchill, yourself,
and Mrs. Boggs, I think that a Siamese Department should
be established, and that it should be located at Bangkok,
or its vicinity. That city must be the base of operations
and the source of supplies.
"I would say, therefore, settle there, learn the
languages, acquaint yourselves with the people, study
Buddhism in its effects, and prepare to show the blinded
ones the 'more excellent way of the Gospel.'
" I would advise, if this course be adopted, that you
establish yourselves where you may form your own plans
and carry them out according to your own judgments."
" I greatly long to see a successful attack on Buddhism
in Siam ; far be it from us to dream of Buddhism being-
impregnable. The Lord be with you."
Long after, when the busy pen was laid aside,
Mr. Boggs thus refers to Dr. Cramp in the Christian
Messenger of March 8, 1882 : —
" Dr. Cramp, my reverend and beloved father, instruc-
tor, and benefactor, he also has fallen asleep in Christ.
What a full, and rich, and beautiful life of Christian
faith and Christian service ! Truly, ' the memory of the
just is blessed.'
•' The steady, well-directed, indefatigable labors of a
316
long period ; the rich pi-oductiveness of his earnest
efforts; the eminently evangelical, scriptural character
of his ministry ; his genuine, living piety ; the genial-
ness of his social life, and the calm lustre of his closing
years, leave behind them a pathway of light, like the
setting sun, where he sinks beyond a cloudless horizon.
" I cannot here express the high esteem, the reverence
and the love with which I regarded Dr. Cramp.
" His instructions wei*e eminently practical and use-
ful. I have lately been looking over, with deeper inter-
est than ever, the course of lectures which he delivered
to the ministerial students in the college and academy
twenty years ago.
" I never went to him without being received with the
kindness of a fathei', and with just the wise counsel and
encouragement that I needed.
" When my desire to obtain an education became
known to him, and also the fact that the question of
pecuniary means was one that caused some hesitation,
he wrote to my parents, saying, ' If you send your son
to college, I will sup])ly him with all the text-books he
requires.' That promise was fulfilled with unchanging
kindness during the five and a half years that I sj^ent at
Wolfville.
" It was the monthly missionary concert, conducted
by Dr. Cramp during all the time that I was at Horton,
which, more than anything else, stirred up in me that
desire to engage in Foreign Missionary service which
has since been realized. These meetings always made a
deep impression on me, and many a Sunday evening his
earnest words concerning the Eedeemer's last command,
and the appalling spiritual wants of the heathen nations,
followed me to 'the Hill,' and kept me thinking till late
at night.
' He possessed, in large measure, the true missionary
317
spirit. Being intimately acquainted with that apostolic
missionary movement, which was re2:)resented in India
by such men as the ' Immortal Three of Serampore,' and
in England b}" such grand leaders as Fuller, Eyland, Sut-
eliff, and others, he was ever ready to advocate and labor
for this greatest of all Christian enterprises. His hearty
sympathy with the cause of missions finds appropriate
expression in his beautiful ' Memoir of Madame Feller.'
" I am about to translate into Telugu, for the use of
our native ministers, his lectures on 'Ministerial and
Pastoral Duties,' which we took in the old college library
in 1861, and thus his instructions will go on blessing
men of another tongue, and, through them, thousands
more.
" By the present prosperous condition of Acadia
College, by the labors of many of his students, and in
many other ways, he ' being dead yet speaketh,' and his
influence will continue to be felt through long succeeding
years.
" ' Mark the perfect man and behold the upright, for
the end of that man is peace.' "
" In Memoriam.
" At a meeting of the Foreign Mission Board of the
Baptist Convention of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and
Prince Edward Island, held at St. John, KB., 9th Dec,
1881, the following preamble and resolutions were
passed : —
" Whereas, — It has pleased God, the Creator of all, the
All-wise Disposer of events, to remove from us by death
our venerable and honored brother, the Eev. J. M.
Cramp, D.D., for many years a highly esteemed and use-
ful member, as well as an efficient officer of our Board ;
" Be it Resolved, — That, while we bow ourselves lowly
before this afflictive dispensation and acknowledge the
318
wisdom and righteousness of the Judge of all the earth,
yet we are fully conscious that our Board and the Deno-
mination at large sustain a severe loss in the demise of
Dr. Cramp, who, by his wise and judicious counsels to
his brethren at home, and also to the missionary corps
abroad, and by his persistent and zealous advocacy of
the claims of the heathen, had rendered himself con-
spicuous as a friend of the Foreign Mission enterprise.
" The services he rendered to our infant missions were
invaluable, and his paternal instruction to our mission-
aries on the field in his correspondence with them, was
weighty, inspiring, and fully appreciated by those
addressed.
" His views on matters of business claiming the atten-
tion and action of our Board, were characterized by
clearness, Christian manliness and admirable good sense.
We therefore mourn our brother's removal as a most
serious bereavement, and an almost irreparable loss.
"We would also desire to convey our expression of
sympathy and condolence to the family of our dear
brother, in this hour of their overwhelming sorrow.
"We can only commend them to resort to their
fathers' God and Saviour, in whom he trusted for so
many years, and who has received him to that presence
in which there is fulness of joy forever ;
Resolved, — That a copy of the foregoing preamble and
resolutions be forwarded to the family of the deceased."
CHAPTER XVI.
DR. CRAMP AS A PREACHER.
" We must combine Luther with St. Paul. ' Bene orare est
bene studuisse ' must be united with St. Paul's ' Meditate upon
these things : give thyself wholly to them, that they profiting
may appear to all.' " — Cecil.
Our first remark under this head is that he was
a preacher. If long tenure of office strengthens
the claim to a position ; if ability and willingness
to discharge the duties incumbent ; if love for a
work and success therein afford any proof of a
divine appointment to a calling, then Dr. Cramp
was emphatically a preacher of the Gospel. He
began to preach, in the way of exhortation, in
1814, a little over a year after his baptism. His
first sermon was at St. Peters, from Eph. iii., 19,
when about 18 years of age. He was ordained to
the work of the Grospel ministry in May, 1818, as
the pastor of Dean street Baptist church, London.
From that time till his decease in December, 1881,
he continued to magnify his office as a preacher.
Whatever other business may have been under-
taken or thrust upon him, however pressing other
claims, or burdensome other duties, he never
320
found or sought for au excuse for not preaching,
when called upon to do it. "Whether from a sense
of duty in his high calling, or from a hope of
accomplishing some good, or from the pleasure
which the exercise afforded, or from a mingling
of all these motives, the subject of this memoir
dearly loved to stand before an audience and
proclaim the way of life.
That he made thorough preparation for pulpit
exercises, no one who had the opportunity of
hearing him frequently could doubt. And yet he
was ready, almost at a moment's notice, to enter
the pulpit and give an instructive discourse. His
familiarity with the Bible, in its historical, devo-
tional and doctrinal aspects, was so great and
accurate, that he was never at a loss. His mem-
ory, so quick in action and so tenacious in its
grasp, that a skeleton of a sermon, once prepared,
was ready again for use when the occasion
demanded. This readiness was often made avail-
able in cases of emergency. At public gatherings,
for instance, when the appointed preacher failed
through some unexpected event, all anxiety was
soon allayed if it was found that Dr. Cramp was
present. He was pretty certain to be the one
selected to fill the gap, and the service would go
on as though no interruption had occurred.
Dr. Cramp's pastoral labors extended over twenty-
six years, — from 1818 to 1844 — with a short break
for rest and the recovery of health between the first
and second pastorates. There were nearly three
years, beginning in 1824, during which his prin-
321
cipal work was of a literary character, iu connec-
tion with, a publishing company in London. The
only thing that reconciled him to this change, was
the fact that his medical advisers regarded it as
necessary on the score of health. The six years of
his first pastorate at Dean street, with all the
extra work he was performing, had greatl}- under-
mined his constitution. Both he and his intimate
friends, at that time, feared that his strength was
exhausted, and that his working days were few.
And yet, during these three years, much preach-
ing was done. For calls to supply vacant pulpits
in and around the city w^ere very frequent. But
this period of his life was never reviewed with
much pleasure. The business of the company
with which he was connected became too engross-
ing, and turned him away too much from the
work congenial to his feelings. Some entries in
the journal of those days indicate that there was
deep regret that the associations, as well as the
work, were all tending towards loss of spiritual
fervor and zeal for Grod. It was, however, only a
temporary arrangement, and by the time he was
again prepared for pastoral labors, the way was
opened for another settlement.
From 182^ to 1842 he was co-partner with his
father, E,ev. Thomas Cramp, at St. Peters, Isle of
Thanet. The father was already advanced in
years, and the burden of the work rested on the
son. The preaching was constant, and greatly
appreciated by the people. The time, however,
which under the circumstances would have been
21
322
given to pastoral work, was spent in literary-
labor. It was during this pastorate that the first
edition of the "Text-book of Popery" was pub-
lished.
Some entries in the journal of this period show
how intently the young pastor was longing for
more spiritual life in his own soul, and in the
Church for which he was laboring. Such, for
instance, as the following : —
"July, 1831. — I have been spending some time this
morning in self-enquiiy, self-examination and prayer.
Here I am laboring among the people in conjunction
with my father, but there seems to be no good doing.
. , . I have recently been much affected by this
thought, and my impressions were deepened at our late
missionary meeting in London, where we had the pleas-
ure of Mr. Malcolm's company, an American minister,
pastor of the Fourth Baptist Church in Boston, U.S.
He gave us some cheering and remarkable intelligence
respecting the progress of the word of Grod in that coun-
try. Why is not similar progress witnessed here? The
enquiry is interesting and important.
" My own impression is that we shall never witness a
revival of religion in this land till our Churches them-
selves are reformed, and that the Churches will not be
reformed until their ministers are brought into a state of
more lively piety. For myself, I see abundant cause for
humiliation. I do not wonder that they (the people)
have not been blessed. I only wonder that I am permit-
ted to live and am invited to return to Grod, What cold-
ness ! What omissions ! What neglect 1 How little
private and personal godliness! On every hand I
discern reasons for God's anger and my own abasement
before Him. . . . No wonder that 1 have been use-
323
less, an encumbrance to the ground. Why have I not
been rooted uj)? Adored be the long-suftering of an
injured God ! I have endeavored to humble myself
before Him this morning, confessing my sins. I have
asked forgiveness, with grace to reform, and the influ-
ences of the Holy Spirit. I trust I do desire to live a
different life, to live for God, to realize the truths of the
Gospel for myself, to be prepared for usefulness by the
teachings and discipline of the Holy Spirit. I wish to
surrender myself to God, and to be dealt with as He
shall see good. . . . What cause shall I have to bless
the Lord if, from this time, a new era should begin of
humble and spiritual walking, devotedness, zeal and
efficiency!"
Following this, there is a plan laid down, pray-
erfully made, and carefully drawn up, for the use
of means every day to bring about a better state of
things both in his own heart and in the commu-
nity. The above is onl}'- a specimen. The diary
of those days abounds with them. Honest,
intensely earnest, through and through heart-
searchings, that every lurking evil might be
searched out and rooted up, that nothing might
be left, however dear, to stand in the way of
progress and usefulness.
This is one phase of the life of Dr. Cramp as a
preacher. For it was the contemplation of the
solemn and responsible work of the j)astor that
led to this train of thought. Every Christian
ought, indeed, to enquire frequently into the state
of his own heart. But he, whose business it is to
" feed the flock of God," is under a double obliga-
tion to see to it that his own soul is fed, — and the
324
journal, from which, the extract above is taken,
affords convincing proof that the subject of this
memoir attended to that duty, as to all others,
with the intensity of his whole nature. Very few
men have gone through greater struggles of heart,
alone with God, than he. And yet it was so com-
pletely " alone with Grod," that, so far as others
were concerned, it was unnoticed and unknown,
except in its results. And many who, perhaps,
saw the fruit, did not know whence it came. Dr.
Cramp's step was quick, his movements elastic,
his whole bearing, even in the pulpit, cheerful ;
his countenance often beaming with hopefulness ;
his voice ringing, as though there were a great
fund of assurance behind it all. There was very
little, indeed, in any of the externals to give the
impression of one with intense inward struggles.
And yet they were gone through. The battle was
often long and fierce, but, like Jacob with the
angel, he prevailed, and seemed so to come out oi
the conflict, that very few even knew that he had
been in it. Not one in a hundred, perhaps, of his
hearers was aware that he chided his own unbe-
lief much more severely than he censured theirs ;
or that it was the deeply-felt want of more warmth
and life in his own soul that prompted his most
earnest words to others as to their formality and
coldness. But his own recorded resolutions and
prayers, that no one ever saw, while he lived,
prove that this was the case ; and these struggles
through which he passed, qualified him all the
better for the positions which he afterwards
325
filled, as the teacher and guide of young men pre-
paring for the responsible work of preaching
Christ, for by his own experience he had found
out the difficulties in their way, and what would
be the most effectual means of removing them.
"Carefully, young brethren," he would say,
" watch your own hearts if you would have
success in the work of the Lord."
From 1842 to 1844 he was pastor of the church
in Hastings, Sussex, during which time, in addi-
tion to his ordinary services, he delivered a course
of lectures, afterwards published in a book, headed
" Lectures for These Times." Here his pastorate
labor ended.
His Style or Manner as a Preacher.
1. It was intensely earnest. His was no mere offi-
cial discharge of a duty imposed. His effiart was
not to find something to say which would occupy
about the reasonable time of a sermon. It was not
an effort, by sounding out platitudes with holy in-
tonations, to delude easy-going piety into the belief
that it was being fed with angels' food. There
was no priestly mystery in tone or in manner ; no
chanting of musical melodies to drive away evil
spirits ; no assumption of any special sacredness
in the earthen vessel that bore the treasure. The
preacher was a man, standing in the presence of
men of like passions as his own, and needing the
same pardon and grace which he had found. He
relied solely upon the power of truth, truth made
efficacious by the Spirit of Grod, and not by thea-
326
trical performances or human inventions. The
truths of the Grospel were, therefore, brought forth
and marshalled in order, and put into the simplest
language possible, the plainest Saxon speech, ut-
tered in all sober earnestness of one who fully
believed Grod, and designed that others should do
the same, if he could persuade them to this course.
But the persuasion must come from the truth ; not
the truth and human emotions accompanying it,
but truth and the Spirit of Grod attending it.
2. The preaching was eminently Scriptural,
sometimes doctrinal ; the great principles of truth
had taken firm hold of his mind. The doctrines,
so-called, were dearly loved and strongly held.
They had not been received from any human au-
thority. However deeply the works of the old
divines had been studied, the " law of the Lord "
had been perused still more thoroughly. His inti-
mate acquaintance with the Bible was a source
of wonder to many. He strongly recommended
the constant use of a concordance to all Bible stu-
dents, but during the last half of his life, he seldom
had occasion to refer to one himself. The Bible,
in his hands, seemed almost of itself to open to
the passage wanted. He never confounded the
language of Isaiah with that of Ezekiel, Matthew
with Luke, or Paul with Peter. His quotations,
which were frequent, were not only true to the
exact meaning of the author, but to the words by
which the meaning was expressed.
The fundamental doctrines of the Grospel filled
a large place in his thoughts. Man's utter ruin
327
and helplessness ; salvation by grace, through faith
in Christ ; the absolute need of regeneration, and
that the work of the Spirit of Grod ; the vicarious
sufferings of the Saviour ; a life of entire surrender
and consecration, following the acceptance of
Christ ; the ultimate triumph of the G-ospel ; the
absolute safety of all who are in Christ Jesus ; the
Church a voluntary union of converted persons and
none besides ; the spread of the G-ospel to be se-
cured by the voluntary offerings and prayers of
the redeemed ; the second coming of Christ ; the
resurrection of all the dead ; the eternal blessed-
ness of those who die in the Lord, and the eternal
condemnation of those who neglect the great sal-
vation.
These were themes often dwelt upon, and some-
times with great feeling and power ; but there
was no human speculation ; there was no attempt
at any " philosophy of the plan of salvation " ; no
logical reasonings as to the Divine scheme of re-
demption. It was simply — "Thus saiththe Lord."
He hath spoken, and He will do it. Shall the
thing formed say, " Why hast thou made me
thus ?" " Grod is not a man that He should lie,
neither the son of man that He should repent,"
hath He said ; and shall He not do it ? Or hath
He spoken, and shall not He make it good?
This was the style of Dr. Cramp's preaching.
What the Word of the Lord declared, that was
ultimate. Man's ability or inability to compre-
hend or receive it, made no difference with the
truth, that liveth and abideth forever.
328
The effects were, of course, various, according
to the state of feeling of the hearer. One personal
experience may suffice as an illustration, The
sermon was preached in the old Baptist church of
"Wolfville, in the year 1854. The listener may
explain in his own language : —
" I sat in the gallery. I cannot recollect the text. I
had long, as I thought, desired to be a Christian. I was
walking about Zion and telling the towers thereof, but I
could not see the place to entei*. There was not to me a
logical connection between the diiferent doctrines. I
was longing for some system that would take me on
from simple axioms to fixed and undeniable conclusions.
The preacher held me up as a helpless and guilty sinner,
and then declared that my condemnation was certain,
and would be just. Here my heart rebelled. ' Help-
lessness ' and 'just condemnation ' seemed to lack the
logical connection, — I became very angry. From an
ignorant preacher I could have borne it; but from a
learned divine, not so patiently. I rebelled against the
doctrines, and thought the preacher very unsympathetic,
unfeeling, unkind, and in my heart despaired of ever
becoming a Christian. Further on in the discourse, the
fullness and the freeness of the great salvation were
dwelt upon. In gentle tones, and with sweet, persua-
sive eloquence, all sinners were invited to come to the
fountain. Before the close, a strange and unaccount-
able tenderness of heart came over me. It was with
great difficulty that I controlled my emotions, and then
hurried alone to ' my room, to pour out such a flood of
penitential tears as never before or since gave vent to
my hitherto pent-up feelings.' "
It was practical ; even when it was doctrinal, the
practical bearing of the doctrines was not forgot-
329
ten. If these things are so, "what manner of per-
sons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and
godliness ?" This was the question which sprang
naturally out of every great doctrine. To believe
the truth aright was to live ; and to live was to
bring forth all the fruits of holiness. Dr. Cramp
was no visionary or sentimental dreamer; the
ecstacy that some professed to have experienced
was not regarded as of much value, unless the
life was moulded into the likeness of the life of
Christ. Grreat doctrines believed, implied great
duties discharged ; great joy in the salvation,
implied great toil in the service, — and it was an
abiding grief in his heart that the fruits of holi-
ness, in the lives of professing Christians, did not
more fully correspond with the transports talked
of. He fully believed that those " called to be
saints," were just as loudly called to be workers
in the vineyard of the Lord. That all the mem-
bers of the Church, with their varied gifts and
qualifications, were needed for the work, and that
if any one of the number failed to perform his
part, the whole body must suffer in consequence.
As an example of his earnest and practical manner
of enforcing the truth, take the following extract :
"Let us, therefore, brethren, humble ourselves before
God, confess our sins, mourn over our ' low estate,' and
be abashed and weep for the atfecting contrast between
our privileges and our attainments. Eegard Christianity
as the religion of the heart, and yield yourselves unhesi-
tatingly to its full influence, to be sanctified in spirit,
soul and body. Aim at an elevated standard of piety.
Converse often and much with your best friend, through
330
the "Word of God and prayer. Eecognize the special
claims which Jesus has upon you ; cheerfully admit His
rights as Master and Lord, and * thus judge, that if He
died for all, then were all dead, and that He died for all,
that they which live should not, henceforth, live unto
themselves, but unto Him which died for them and rose
again.' Let the awful condition of the ungodly be con-
stantly before your eyes. Think of all the sinners you
see as destined to everlasting burnings, unless they
repent and return to God ; hasten, oh hasten, to warn
them, if by any means you may save some."
Originality.
Dr. Cramp was eminently original in his style
of preaching. He had his own way of putting
things, and could employ that of no one else. He
admired the Apostle Paul, and was not ashamed
to quote his language. He had read the Psalms
devotionally, and his own devotions were often
guided by expressions found therein. He loved
the Saviour, and was willing to acknowledge
Him as the purest, highest and best of all models.
But so far as any literature or preachers were con-
cerned, outside of the Bible, he copied no man.
He thought for himself, and put his thoughts
into expressions of his own, and delivered them
entirely in his own way. His illustrations were
apt and telling, usually drawn from the Bible
itself, and employed in a happy manner. His
sermons on special occasions were frequently far
beyond the range of average preaching. The
anniversaries of great events in history were
331
sometimes made the occasion of a review of the
past, and a cheerful setting forth of the improve-
ments of the times and hopeful indications for the
future. It was a rich treat, on such occasions, to
listen to the ringing tones of one who believed in
the complete triumph of the right, partly because
there were indications of progress, but much more
because the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.
As already stated, Dr. Cramp's pastoral labors
ended in 1844, when he resigned the charge of
the church at Hastings. The farewell services
were affecting, both pastor and people feeling that
the separation was final, so far as Christian fel-
lowship in this world is concerned. And so it
proved to be, for he never found the time to
recross the Atlantic and visit the scenes of his
childhood and early efforts for Grod. But how
inspiring the thought, and what unbounded
thanksgiving to Grod should accompany it, that
those who, amid blinding tears in April, 1844,
said their farewells, were doubtless permitted to
greet each other again, in December, 1881, in the
presence of Him who had given strength for the
journey and grace to its end.
The preaching, however, did not end with the
pastorate at Hastings. During the seven weeks'
voyage in the " Prince Greorge," religious services
were kept up each Lord's day, as far as the
weather permitted. "When Montreal was reached,
and the work of the college taken up, there was
constant preaching, either in the city or out
among the churches. "When Dr. Cramp came to
332
Nova Scotia in 1851, he was warmly welcomed
by those who were then the pastors of the
churches, and by none more warmly than by
those who were still left of " the fathers " in the
ministry. To the praise of those veterans of the
faith, or rather to the praise of divine grace, it
may be said that they were above all petty
jealousy. They were "unlearned," and yet not
"ignorant" men; the cause to which they had
given their lives was dearer to them than the
thoughts of any personal preeminence. They
welcomed the man who came to them with the
reputation of an earnest worker for Christ, both
in his study and in the pulpit. As their hearts
were open, so their churches were thrown open.
He soon learned to love and trust these men. He
admired their faith, love and zeal, quite as much
as they admired his learning and ability. To
them he was no rival, but a fellow-helper in the
truth. To him they were no disbanded soldiers,
to be pushed aside, but heroes in the conflict,
worthy of all honor and esteem. Among the fore-
most of these was E-ev. Theodore S. Harding, the
pastor of the First Horton Baptist Church. He
was then in the Y9th year of his age. He had
been ordained as pastor of the church, July 31,
1786, just six days after Dr. Cramp was born.
Who would have dreamed that on the day of the
ordination of a pastor over the first Baptist church
organized in these provinces, there was an infant
of six days in St. Peters, Isle of Thanet, who
would come to cheer this pastor in his old age
333
and take up the armor that he was about to lay-
down ? But so it was, and it was not in the
nature of the child of '86, now a man of vigor, to
see the " old man eloquent " bearing burdens " too
grievous to be borne." So he took a large portion
of the work. One service every Sunday was pro-
vided for by Dr. Cramp, and frequently more. In
June, 1855, Father Harding died, and then the
entire work of the Church, so far as the pulpit
was concerned, was undertaken by him, till
another pastor was secured. And all this was
done without any expectation of pecuniary
reward. To help on the cause of truth was all
the recompense he sought. That " the workman
was worthy of his hire," he often taught ; but
seemed to suppose that the principle was applic-
able to other laborers rather than to himself.
After a successor to Mr. Harding was secured, in
December, 1855, Dr. Cramp still continued to
preach every Sunday evening, thus allowing the
pastor, the late Dr. de Blois, to supply the stations
outside.
As a token of esteem a present was made to him
by the First Horton Baptist Church, in June, 1863.
The following, to his son, refers to this subject : —
"July 13, 1863.
" ... Two days before T went to Prince Edward
Island, two gentlemen waited on me, and presented to me
a handsome gold watch, in the name of the congregation,
as a testimonial of their satisfaction and esteem, with
special reference to my ministerial services on Lord's
Day evenings. This was very gratifying, and was alto-
334
gether a surprise to me ; for, though contributions for
the object were made throughout the congregation, the
secret was so well kept, that not the least inkling of it
reached me.
"The gift was remarkably appropriate, as my old
watch, bought in 1812, was so thoroughly worn out, that
the watch doctors had given it up ! "
A record was made of all the sermons preached.
Some of these have disappeared ; but enough has
been retained to show how abundant the labors
were. From such records as we have, the number
of sermons preached in England was about 3,840.
In Canada, about 336. There are no records for
this period ; the amount is made up from a general
average of other years. In Nova Scotia, not less
than 1,000, making in all, 5,1'76 sermons.
This, with lectures and addresses on all religious,
moral and philanthropic subjects, as they came up,
with professional and literary burdens continually
pressing, constitutes an amount of work performed
that, certainly, not one man in a thousand could
undertake. How it was accomplished we know
not, only we know that it was done.
The following resolution will explain itself ; it
was received by Dr. Cramp's family after his de-
cease : —
Eev. J. M. Cramp, D.D.
" It having pleased the wise Disposer of events, to re-
move by death on the 6th inst., our beloved brother, the
Eev. J. M. Cramp, D. D,, this church, at its first confer-
ence meeting thei*eafter, desires to record its sense of the
great loss it has sustained by this event.
335
" The late Dr. Cramp came to Wolfville from Montreal,
in the spring of 1851, to take the oversight of Acadia Col-
lege. On arrival, he connected himself with this church,
of which he remained a most faithful and useful member
till his death.
" During the last few years of our late pastor, Eev. T.
S. Harding, he was not able to perform his duties so effec-
tually as formerly, owing to age and growing infirmities.
Dr. Cramp then came to his aid. and rendered the church
most essential service in the pulpit and otherwise, till the
time of the said pastor's death. This occurring some six
months before our present pastor (Dr. de Blois) took
charge. Dr. Cramp most kindly supplied the pastor's
place during this vacancy, rendering his services most
cheerfully, without expecting or receiving any pecuniary
consideration.
" After the settlement of our present pastor, Dr.
Cramp continued to benefit the church by taking charge
of the Sunday evening services for many years, till infir-
mities and advancing age rendered such efforts imprac-
ticable. By this means, he enabled om* pastor to bestow
labor on other portions of the Church which he could not
have done under other circumstances.
" Dr. Cramp ever manifested a strong interest in the
welfare of this church in her various enterprises, — and
when unable to be present at prayer and conference
meetings, anxiously sought information of what took
place on such occasions.
" He was jealously desirous for the welfare of the pas-
tor of the church, and anxious that he should be upheld
and supported by its members, both by their prayers
and their contributions, to which his share was added
with cheerful promptness.
"The benevolent schemes of the Church received his
hearty cooperation. No one was more ready to urge to
336
duty in this matter than he was, both by precept and
example ; this was not with him a litful emotion, but a
steady, active principle, ruling his whole life, and
continuing up to the time of his death.
"In a word, from his entering this Church, over
thirty years ago, till the time of his death, he ceased
not to labor by every means in his power for its welfare
and spiritual advancement.
"Whilst reviewing our loss, we can but feel thankful
in being able to refer to his holy life, most useful coun-
sels, and faithful example ; whilst we shall miss his
prayers and devoted labors, may we feel that though
dead he 'yet speaketh;' and may this Church ever
gratefully remember him as one long connected with it,
and one fervently and justly beloved in all the relations
he sustained to it during his long membership.
" To the family of our late brother, Eev. Dr. Cramp,
this Church would tender its heartfelt sympathy in their
heavy bereavement, and prays that they may be sus-
tained under their affliction by the same gi'ace which
upheld their beloved parent during his long and useful
life, and which, in the hour of death, did not fail to
sustain and comfort him.
" The above passed unanimously at conference meet-
ing this day, and was ordered to be copied on the book
of church records, and a copy of the same to be forwarded
to the family of the late Dr. Cramj).
"Burpee Witter,
" Church Clerk.
"Wolfville, Dec. 31, 1881."
The resolution above shows in what estimation
Dr. Cramp was held as a preacher, a Christian and
a man in the Church, where, without fee or
reward, he had labored longer than in any other
337
place. His last sermon in Wolfville was in the
summer of 1878, — and, taking the 27 years from
1851 up to that time, he had averaged about 35
sermons a year. In addition to this, he was sel-
dom absent from prayer and conference meetings,
on which occasions his voice was always heard
with profit.
His preaching was spiritual in its character.
He could say, " I have believed and, therefore, I
speak." He believed in vital godliness, in experi-
mental religion. The necessity for conversion, an
entire, radical change of heart and life, was with
him no mere theory ; it was a most serious fact ;
he so treated it. The "fall" and the "ruin" of
the race were no figurative expressions to be
explained away, but solemn truths to be accepted
and mourned over. He fully believed that no
power less than the Divine could remedy the evil
wrought. This he persistently taught.
His Christian sympathy was deep and abiding.
Those in sorrow had his words of condolence,
either spoken or written, as opportunity offered.
His prayers for the bereaved in their times of
grief were often most tender and affecting. It
was no official discharge of duty, but rather the
pleadings of a heart, that had often been smitten,
in behalf of those who were then under the rod.
On such occasions, no one could doubt the genu-
ineness of the piety which prompted the prayer.
The college professor, the learned author, the
earnest preacher, were all lost sight of, as at the
common mercy-seat ; many hearts, following the
22
838
one voice, were " letting their requests be made
known to Grod." Experimental religion was to
him as far superior to all professions and forms of
service as the light is superior to the darkness.
The deeper the experience, the more he enjoyed it.
And yet, Dr. Cramp was not a man of an emo-
tional nature. His feelings were deep and quiet,
rather than noisy and manifest. He seldom, we
might almost say never, in the pulpit, gave any
expression to his own feelings, either of a joyous
or a painful kind. The truths of the Grospel were
declared, and the hearer was left to draw his own
conclusions as to what special effects were being
produced in the preacher's own heart by them.
That wonderful results were produced in trans-
forming, purifying, and mellowing power, became
more and more manifest as the years passed by.
And yet it may be frankly owned that it was, in
part, left for those who have had access to his
private papers, since he has gone, to know the
depth of his piety, or the struggles he passed
through to get a firm hold on Grod. The Gospel
he preached became to himself the power of God
unto salvation, and he loved to preach it, that
others might believe and be saved. " He rests
from his labors, and his works do follow him."
Reference has been made to the system of short-
hand used b}^ Dr. Cramp all through his life. It
was adopted by him before the present methods
were employed, and consists of a mingling of cha-
racters with ordinary words. We furnish on the
following page, as a sample, a fac-simile of one
339
page of the notes of a sermon, the|]whole occupy-
ing four such pages.
y, A^tzt^ ^ ^. .,,^^ ^ a^ c ;? •c^ f _ « »- ,»,^
This, in ordinary English, is as follows : —
" Heb. xi., 13. Annual commemoration of the dead
by the Moravians. Many have died in the past year : it
has been a busy year with the king of terrors. The
Church, too, has lost some bright ornaments. Yery
probable that the ravages of the destroyer will be great
in the present year. How important to be prepared !
340
"1. An interesting fact :
"Death ought never to be contemplated but with
great seriousness ; it is the most momentous change of
all. How differently men die: Some stupidly, like the
beast, without thought or care; some with affected
calmness, while the dart rankles in the conscience.
Hume. Some boastingly, cherishing to the last a con-
viction of their superiority to others, and their conse-
quent safety ; some despairingly.
"Some few die 'in faith:' Jacob, Joseph, David,
Stephen, Paul. •' I know whom I have believed,' ' I am
about to be offered,' &c., &c. What is included in this ?
Rejection of all self-confidence. This is involved in the
very nature of faith, which means simply resting on
another. His insufficiency, his un worthiness, &c., never
so felt by the Christian as when death is approaching.
He may have been exemplary, active, devoted, but now
he sees things as they are, and must judge, not by the
flattery of partial friends, but by the unerring Word of
G-od. He cannot but say, ' Enter not into judgment,' &c.
The holiest man that ever lived, with nothing but his
holiness to confide in, would be covered with confusion."
It will be observed that these are only heads of
a discussion, wbich would be filled in by the
preacher as he proceeded with his theme.
CHAPTER XVII.
YEARS OF QUIET AND REST.
" Eemember that some of the brightest drops in the chalice of
life may still remain for us in old age. The last draught which
a kind Providence gives us to drink, though near the bottom
of the cup, may, as is said of the draught of the Romans of old,
have, at that very bottom, instead of dregs, most costly pearls."
— W. A. Newman.
1869-1881.
And yet it would require some skill in writing
to produce a chapter under this heading which
would be both true to the life, and at the same
time such as the words " quiet and rest" would
suggest to many minds.
What some would regard as a season of rest,
would be a complete giving up of all labor ; work-
ing not at all with the hands ; making no plans for
further improvement ; carrying no anxieties for
the condition of things ; quietly leaving every-
thing to be done by others, or to be left undone,
and settling down into undisturbed repose, as
though all were now finished, and the end of the
existence completely secured. To all who would
love to see a truthful picture of such a period in
342
human history, we would say, — you must look at
the biography of some one very different from him
whose life we are considering. There was no such
period in Dr. Cramp's life ; and the biographer can-
not produce it, except he make it fiction rather
than fact. And yet there was a period of rest. His
own advice to the students may illustrate : —
" Grentlemen," he would say, " when you are tired
of studying mathematics, turn to the classics ;
and when you have exhausted your strength on the
Latin, take up the G-reek." And sometimes this
was said with a significant smile, as though he
would delude them into the belief, that they
would find " Demosthenes de Corona " mere play,
after " Cicero de Officiis " had bafiled all their
efforts. If they were so deluded, the delusion
probably vanished in due time. The true philoso-
phy of the advice, however, will be recognized by
all adepts in mental philosophy. A change of
labor is often tantamount to rest.
In this sense, we find materials for twelve years
of " quiet and rest." Acadia College, whose con-
dition he found very low in 1851, had been greatly
revived. The finances had been improved. Many
prejudices had yielded before the logic of undeni-
able facts ; the number of students had greatly
increased ; some of them had already grown and
developed into able professors in Acadia and other
similar institutions. A competent man had been
found and installed into the office of president.
Instead of one professor there were six. The future
existence and continued growth of the college was
343
believed to be assured ; there was not a whisper
to be heard throughout the Maritime Provinces
that education, either denominational or general,
might have been in a healthier condition, if some
other man had been our leader for the last eighteen
years. Few men, indeed, have ever retired from
a post of responsibility and toil, with better reasons
for believing that his labors had been appreciated
and successful. So, when the president's position,
influence, work and reponsibility, were transferred
to him who now so worthily fills the office, there
was a sense of relief, and a feeling of complete rest.
Henceforth, all efforts in this direction could be of
a voluntary kind, and put forth as inclination
might direct. As the warrior lays his armor by,
when the field is won. Dr. Cramp laid the old
class-books and manuscripts of the lecture-room
aside with the feeling, — this conflict is ended, and
I may rest.
He had earned a good rest, if any man ever had.
The friends of the college gave an expression of
their feelings, in the presentation of a beautiful
epergne, and the address accompanying it will
show their appreciation of the work which had
been done. This token of esteem was highly
valued by the recipient. It had cost $500, but was
worth ten times that amount to him : —
" To the Bev. Dr. Cramp :
" Dear Sir, —
"A number of yourman}^ friends are happy to era-
brace the ojjportunity offered by your retirement from
344
the presidency of Acadia College, to express their high
appreciation of your successful and laborious services,
rendered for a period of eighteen years, in connection
with the Baptist Denomination in these Provinces.
" They beg also to state that 3"our personal intercourse
with the churches has won general esteem and love.
"You will call to mind that when you entered upon
your labors in Acadia College, the institution was not
only without endowment, but was seriously embarrassed
by debt.
" You found the students reduced to a very small num-
ber, and but a single professor — the lamented Isaac Chip-
man — to share with you the labors of the institution.
" The debt has been paid, and an endowment of be-
tween $30,000 and $40,000 secured.
" The students in annual attendance have been in-
creased from year to year, till they now number upwards
of forty, and there is now a Faculty of six professors.
" For this measure of prosperity the friends of the
college feel that to you they are largely indebted.
" The pains which you have taken to examine the
history of Baptist principles, and the successful efforts
which you have made to place before the public the
biographies of the worthy men whose labors preceded
yours in these Provinces, have been sources of much
profit and gratification to the body generally.
" The interest which you have ever manifested in social
reforms, and especially in the promotion of free com-
mon school education, has contributed in no small degree
to the success which has attended the efforts of those
especially employed in these departments of moral and
intellectual labor.
" As a token of esteem and regard, your acceptance of
this epergne of pure silver is requested.
" May your health be continued and your life pro-
345
longed, and, having accepted the position of " professor
emeritus," may yoa long continue to sustain this relation
to Acadia College."
We said the class books were laid aside, but
the new appointment of "professor emeritus,"
referred to in this address, opened the way for
pleasant recreation, in meeting college classes
still, as opportunity offered. Twice a week, for
some years, this exercise was kept up. To give
some instruction in ecclesiastical history, could
hardly be called work to Dr. Cramp. Help was
also afforded to ministerial students in their study
of Hebrew. But this was given in his own room,
occasionally, and helped more than it hindered the
rest.
A house was purchased in the west end of the
village of Wolfville. It was pleasantly situated,
with ample grounds in the rear for cultivation or
ornamentation. Some changes and improvements
were made in the house, the room designed for the
library being considerably enlarged. A magnifi-
cent elm stands in the field, the admiration of all
who visit it. It was a source of pleasure to the
doctor to spend a half hour, occasionally, under
the shadow of this fine tree. It was considerably
older than its owner, yet there was a resemblance
between them ; the tree had stood through many
storms, its roots penetrated farther through the
soil, and its great branches covered a broader
space, than those of any other tree for many miles
around. Truer still of him who rested in its
shade. His mental and spiritual growth had
346
been the work of long years ; the fibres of his
being had reached out far for their nourishment,
and the influence of his life, like the branches of
the tree, covered a wide space.
In August, 1869, Dr. Cramp removed from his
former residence in the college buildings to this
retreat of his old age. Some time before, his
family had been so reduced, that there was but
one daughter to occupy the new home with him.
She was the constant companion of her father in
all the later years of his life, and he frequently
acknowledged his debt of gratitude to God for
such a support and solace as she proved to be. Of
course, the actual resting could not commence till
the needful changes are made both outside and
in ; and especially the large collection of books
have found their appropriate places. But in due
time the arrangements are completed, and the last
stage of the journey is entered upon — the period of
"quiet and rest."
In some respects, this may be regarded as the
most instructive period of Dr. Cramp's life. The
heading of the chapter is a misnomer, unless the
sense in which the words are used is remembered.
Some one has said that every man is naturally
lazy, and that it is only when heavy pressure is
on that the greatest possibilities can ever be real-
ized. In each of the preceding stages, the subject
of this memoir has been under heavy pressure.
As the pastor of three dififerent churches in Eng-
land, weak and struggling interests, as compared
with the national churches alongside of them,
347
there was absolute necessity for constant work.
Responsible for the literary matter of a publish-
ing company in London, he must work. As the
president of two colleges on this side, one in Mon-
treal and one in "Wolfville, both low in finances
and weak in teaching facilities, he must work or
go under.
We have reached the period when all this is
gone. He is the editor of no paper, responsible to
no Board No type-setter is calling for " copy ;" no
church is expecting three or four sermons a week;
no university is looking to him for instruction or
guidance ; the pressure is gone, and the man, for
the first time in his life, is free to rest, — and no
one will say that he has not earned this brief
respite from toil.
An extract or two from his own journal, for one
of these years, will show us how he rested. Those
we give are a fair sample of them all, only short-
ening a little the last two or three years, especially
in the number of sermons preached : —
"Dec. 31, 1870.— During this year I have read 59
volumes, preached 20 times, Avritten 303 letters ; I have
written 28 articles, which have been published in the
Christian Messenger, Christian Visitor, Canadian Baptist or
Baptist Magazine; my lecture on ' Church Development'
has been published in the Baptist Quarterly ; I have writ-
ten a small volume, entitled ' The Lamb of God,' which
has not yet been published ; I have read through the
English Bible ; have read the prophets Jeremiah, Ezekiel
and all the minor prophets in Hebrew."
This record would not contain more than half
348
the reading, for the dailies, tri- weeklies and vari-
ous magazines are not included, — and when Dr.
Ciamp says, " I have read a volume," it means not
that the words were glanced over, but that every
thought contained in it was weighed and the full
measure of the author taken.
Some of the letters referred to were letters of
friendship to members of the family ; some were
official letters to the missionaries in India, requir-
ing much thought and precision ; some were let-
ters on the various questions of public interest in
the Provinces, in England, or in the United States,
showing how wonderfully the writer was awake
and concerned in everything, everywhere, which
touched human well-being and progress. As a
man, he cared for everything that pertains to
man ; as a Christian, he cared for everything
touching Christianity, In this phase of his char-
acter, we believe that very few men have ever
surpassed him.
The following, as letters, may illustrate the
style of his communications ; some of them date a
little farther back than the period of this chapter :
To his daughter, Mrs. Muir : —
" Dec. 30, 1864.
"... This is the anniversary of my baptism, tifty-
two years ago. I have done veiy little for Grod, and
that little very imperfectlj^ ; but I have received many
and great mercies. May the short remnant of my
life be spent more in harmony with principles and obli-
gations. Three were baptized on that occasion — one is
dead ; the other, an old servant, at home, still survives.
349
"... I have just linished a sketch of a sermon for
to-morrow evening from Deut. vii : 2. I intend it to be
a plain exhortation in this wise : —
" 1. What we should remember: — God's ways towards
ns — in mercies, privileges, exemptions, and in sorrows ;
noting their connections and causes, and our deportment
under them. Our ways towards Him — the state of our
hearts, our general conduct in regard to His will, the
manner and degree in which we have served Him,
seeking to save souls and to benefit the Church,
"2. Why we should remember: — Generally, because
God commands it. Specially : it is suitable — a proper,
reasonable exercise — we should stop and think. It is
salutary — it promotes self-knowledge — produces humil-
ity — excites thankfulness.
"3. When we should i-emember : — Habituall}^, Ps.
xxxiv. 1-2: ciii. 1-2. Particular!}' on Lord's days : the
resting day should be a thoughtful, examining day — on
memorial days, such as anniversaries of events in our
lives — at the close of the year. God remembers — Mai.
iii. 16-17. Ps. 1. 21. Memor}^ will be quickened in the
next world — 'Son, remember.'
"I think that the perusal of that sketch may do you
as much good as if I had retailed to you abundance of
news."
" July 25, 1875.
"... I have entered on my eightieth year this
morning. It is marvellous, remembering what a feeble
pei'son I was fifty years ago. No one could have im-
agined it possible that I should reach this date : yet,
here I am, and during those fifty years I have performed
a considerable amount of work, mostly with my pen ;
nor am I without some assurance that good has been
ettected by that pen. Our gifts vary, as well as our
opportunities, and it is a merciful arrangement that
350
they may be employed in the Great Master's service.
At present you are withdrawn from activity, but rest,
as well as work, is useful. Milton says, 'They also
serve, who only stand and wait.'
" Sanctified affliction is a good preparation for labour."
''Nov. 21, 1876.
"... Who can imagine the diilerence between the
modes of existence here and in the heavenly world, and
how useless are our sj)eculations ? I wonder whether
they smile in Heaven; if they do, it will surely turn
to a downright laugh, when they compare the realities
of that blessed state with our blundering guesses on
earth. And we, too, will be apt to quote Paul's words,
'I spake as a child.' John Foster used expressive
phraseology when he said, a short time before his death,
' I shall soon know the great secret.' But we must die
to know it, and what is death, but a change in the mode
of life — living without the body for a few ages or a few
milleniums, to receive it back again, or what will be
equivalent to it, in a new, improved and pei'fected form
— needing no food, no medicine, but existing in, and
of, and by itself — without dependence on any other
thing or being, except the great God, who could an-
nihilate it, but will not, because the aggregate of
redeemed humanity forms, in an exalted sense, the
' glorious body ' of the Lord Jesus ! It is His — and it
is Himself. See Ej^h. ii. 23 and xxvii. 30 ; Phil. iii. 21 ;
1 Cor. XV. 49. Now do not pretend to say, after this,
that an old man cannot speculate."
To his daughter : —
" June 12, 1877.
"... God has not told us when we shall die, but
those who have reached four-score know that the final
close cannot be far off, and may occur at any moment.
I
351
How necessary that they should ' die daily ' in the best
sense, by living to God and keeping eternity in view —
' laying hold on eternal life.'
And if we entertain the hope of being ' forever with
the Lord,' we must be like Him now in 'going about
doing good.' The Church is sadly defective in this
matter. She does not do half enough for her Redeemer
and Lord. ' Awake, thou that sleepest ' — to each one I
would say, ' This matter belongeth unto thee. Eealize it
and act accordingly.
" . . . For my part I am an optimist, that is, I hold
to the creed of the good woman, of whom we had an
account in one of the early tracts of the Tract Society,
and who was accustomed to say, when disasters were
reported, and people were groaning and weeping over
them — ' 'Tis all for the best.' The practical application
is very desirable and important, and the occasions for
it are very often occurring. Only we must bear in
mind that it is not a notion but a reality — a plain fact,
and we can vei-ify it by many a reminiscence. In cases
where the verification is doubtful, we can believe, and
that act of faith gives quietness to the soul, as Isaiah
says, 'Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind
is staid on Thee, because he trusteth in Thee.' Verily,
the Bible contains the best ethics as well as the best
theology. Implicit confidence in it is becoming un-
fashionable in certain quarters, but the old book will
live, when others are forgotten.
"... I am disgusted at the arrogance of some think-
ers. They dare to tell God what He may or may not
do, and that if He (should fail to accomplish certain re-
sults which they think He ought to bring to pass, they
will not respect Him. Now, I think that we ought to
be very, very careful how we pass a verdict on God's
proceedings. His Bible tells us that He is ' holy in all
352
His ways, and righteous in all His works.' So it will
be in the issue, whatever may be the amount of calamity
or the number of the lost, the fact of the existence of
God settles the whole matter. I wish that some men
who set a high value on their own thinking powers,
would study ' Butler's Analogy ' a little more closely, as
well as Paul's epistle to the Eomans, chapters viii. to xi."
To his daughter, Mrs. Mnir : —
" Dec. 9, 18*78.
"... If Mr. Gr. had asked me to speak on the last
Lord's day I joined you at the ' Olivet,' I should have
taken for a text Eph. iii. 19, for a reason which will be
assigned before I close. The course of remarks would
have been to this effect : — ' Our Lord's demeanour
during His sojourn on earth was marked by benevolence
of the highest order, both spiritual and temporal ; He
went about doing good. When He left this world, and
assumed the mediatorial throne, love was still the guiding,
controlling principle, and so it is still.' He manages
all affairs — supplies all wants, listens to all requests
soothes all sorrows, cares for every member of the family.
At the same time He governs the universe, and attends
to the cai-es of individual saints. Such loving grace
passeth knowledge, and is as truly incomprehensible as
the Divine omniscience itself. See Ps. cxxxix.
" This practical manifestation of the great Intercessor's
love may be satisfactorily illustrated by reference to
special instances. We may take the cases of three
Apostles : —
" Peter : — No sooner was He risen from the dead,
than He said to the women, 'Go, tell my disciples;
and Peter ' — mark the special message. When the
Apostle was imprisoned, and about to be led out to
execution, the Saviour sent a messenger to effect his
353
deliverance, and Peter acknowledged that 'the Lord had
sent His angel ' on this merciful errand.
'' Paul: — Passing by his wonderful conversion, which
was the Lord's own work, the following facts deserve
notice: —
" 1. The difficulties and dangers encountered at
Corinth had produced great depression. The Saviour
appeared to him by night with a comforting assui'ance
of deliverance and success. See Acts xviii.
" 2, The trouble of the thorn in the flesh, about which
he prayed to Christ, and received a gracious answer,
which abundantly relieved him. See 2 Cor. xii.
" 3. During his voyage to Eome an angel was sent
to guarantee the safety of all who were in the ship
Acts xxvii.
'' At his trial in Home, all the Roman Christians for-
sook him, ' but the Lord stood with me and strengthened
me,' he says. 2 Tim, iv. 1*7.
" Jo/in .- — Banished to the wild island of Patmos, the
Lord's day came round, and found him alone. No meeting
of the brethren — and he is the last of the Apostles ! He
was broken-hearted. The Lord knew it, and a merciful
manifestation followed. Eev. i. 9-18.
" These are facts, and the intercession is not so much
a doctrine as a fact, and ought to be so regarded by iis.
The Lord Jesus is acting on our behalf; we may claim
the benefit.
"The reason for preferring to take that text was, that it
was the first text on which I ventured to speak in public.
Time—Z&n. 31, 1814. P/ace— Baptist Chapel, St. Peters.
I have often preached from the text since then, and have
thought much of the subject it treats of; but still it
'passeth knowledge;' and it will do so as long as we are
here, and thousands of years afterwards ; for — ' Who by
searching can find out God ?' "
23
354
Dec, 1879.
"... The stealing of ministers from churches is a
common offence ; but it is an offence, and sometimes is
followed by punishment. So, do not steal ; do not tempt
a man to come to Olivet, who is not otherwise known to
be desiring a change. If sheep-stealers are condemned,
surely shepherd-atesilevii cannot be innocent. Therefore,
let the Olivet Church be careful. Do not seek the great,
the flashy, or the odd; be content with the good, the sound
and the active — more especially if the man of your choice
not only works for the chm-ch, but keeps the church in
action ; for the great fault of many of our churches is
that the members ai-e not personally active."
To his daughter : —
Feb. 22, 1879.
" These alternations are like human life ; — now joyous
— now sorrowful — now prosperous — now adverse — now
sickness — now health. So one thing is set over against
another, and there is a mingling together of opposites
which promotes the general good, and subserves the
gracious and wise designs of our God, who, ' like as a
father pitieth his children, pitieth them that fear Him,'
knowing, (that is, considering) their frame, and remem-
bering that they are dust.' Merciful words ! and as
marvellous as they are merciful ! We are so accustomed
to the Divine style, that we fail to wonder as we ought. If
our feelings were rightly affected and governed, we should
be in a state of constant ecstasy, and singing 'Hallelujah'
all the day long. They seem to be perpetually so engaged
in Heaven, but they ai-e never weary of it ; they do not
complain of monotony. Those who sang ' Worthy is the
Lamb that was slain,' when John wrote the book of Ee-
velation, have continued singing the same song ever
since, and are singing it now, without weariness, and will
never cease. It will be the same with ourselves. Same-
355
ness is irksome on earth ; it is delightful in Heaven ;
probably, because the blessed above know what it is to
enjoy variety in /ee/m^ in connection with or without the
continuousness of matter and mode. We do not know
much about Heaven, but one descrij^tion (Eev. vii. 14—
17) will bear deep study, and when we have exhausted
all thought, we shall still confess that we ' know in part,'
and that Christ's riches are unsearchable."
"Oct. 11, 1881.
" . . . The sovereignty of God is freely admitted. He
does as it pleases Him, and all He does is wisely, and
righteously, yea, and kindly done, as it will one day ap-
pear even to those most deeply interested. Blessed are
all that ' wait for Him.' That blesssedness, however, is
reserved for those who wait on Him in trust and hope
and quiet submission. ' I know,' said one of God's ancient
saints, ' that Thy judgments are righteous,' and so it is.
although the prospects are shrouded in gloom. It is
famine time in the deceased brother's family, but Gospel
truths and covenant promises are the food provided for
sufferers, and in partaking of it they receive help and
strength in time of need. All God's promises are full of
meaning, and are kept in tlieii' full meaning, because He is
God, and always keeps His woi-d."
To his sou : —
" Our Province is in a state of some excitement at the
present time, on account of a new franchise bill brought
in by the Government. We have had universal suffrage for
a number of years, and it is now found not to work well.
All parties are dissatisfied with it, and desire some
change. It is proposed to introduce a property qualifi-
cation made manifest by assessment, so as to restrict the
franchise to persons who are assessed for $300, and up-
wards, either real or personal estate. The general scheme
356
is reasonable enough, but so many persons will be dis-
franchised by it — many of whom are men of influence —
that much feeling is evinced. Certain classes — such as
ministers, teachers, &c., are exempt from assessment ;
they will, therefore, be disfranchised.
" I shall lose my vote; but that is of no consequence,
as I abstain from the exercise of the privilege.
" The tarift' was 12^ per cent. The revenue is in so
good a state that it is now reduced to ten per cent."
" April 11, 1873.
" ... I am hardly sorry that Mr. Gladstone's uni-
versity bill was defeated. It would have been lost in the
Lords, anyhow. He attempted an impossibility. Eo-
manists are not to be conciliated. Education is now free
to all, but they will not take it. They must have an
education of their own — provided and paid for at the
public expense. That ought never to be granted. Let them
educate their own people in their own way, but at their
own cost. "We must have liberty and equality, pure and
simple. But the Province of Quebec stands in the way in
this Dominion."
To his son : —
" June 17, 1873.
'' . . . The Eoman Catholics, or at any rate the priests,
hold that education without religion is worthless, and,
therefore, protest against being taxed for the common
schools, and demand separate schools. The answer is
two-fold : —
" 1. The Eoman Catholics themselves are not agreed
on the subject. A majority of them in Ontario send their
children to the common schools, avowedly preferring
them to their own separate schools, and being untroubled
by any conscientious convictions.
" 2. The separate schools must, of necessity, in any
35^
scattered population, be partly dependent on the public
fund, and so the evil against which we protest comes into
operation, the general taxation being charged with the
support of Roman Catholic instruction.
" I fear that the dissentient schools in the Province of
Quebec, are similarly circumstanced, and that they also
are partly chargeable to the common fund, so that Roman
Catholics are taxed for thevi indirectly.
" The whole question is beset with difficulties, the only
fair solution is the establishment of general education at
the public expense, leaving religious instruction to be
supplemented by each denomination out of school hours.
" One mode of getting out of the difficulty might be
the establishment of two funds, one Catholic, the other
Protestant, each made up of the amount of taxation on
those parties respectively, and the application of the
funds restricted to them. In that case, the deficiencies
of the poor districts would be suj^plied by the rich ones,
and neither party would be taxed for the religion of the
other."
To his son : —
"WOLFVILLE, Oct. 22, 1873.
"... I found such an amount of arrears on my return
home that my time has been entirely occupied in clear-
ing them off, which must account for my seeming delay
in writing to you.
"Access to the Alliance meetings was obtained, and I
attended some of them with very great pleasure. It was
certainly a noble assembly, and the proceedings were of
the deepest interest.
"I spent Sunday, the 5th, at Brookljm, where I preached
for Dr. Sarles, who has been twenty-six years minister
of one of our churches there.
"On Wednesday following, I left New York for Boston,
and next day left Boston for St. John, by steamer, think-
358
ing to have a quiet and easy trip. But 1 was disap-
pointed. There had been a heavy fall of rain the day
before, and the sea was still so rough that we were coro-
pelled to take refuge in Gloucester harbour, where we
remained all day. Everything was so rough and uncom-
fortable on board the steamer, that when we reached
Portland on Friday morning, I went ashore, and per-
formed the remainder of the journey by railway, arriving
at St. John on Saturday morning.
"I preached twice at St. John the next day, and at-
tended a meeting of our Missionary Board on Monday.
On Tuesday, I travelled from St. John to Halifax by the
Intercolonial Eailway, which is well constructed, and
well managed."
To his son : —
"July 15, 1878.
" I sent you, the other day, a copy of the Chronicle
containing an account of the laying the corner-stones of
our college and seminary. It was an exceedingly hot
day, which somewhat marred our enjoyment, for we had
no awning over our heads. Our convention meets this
year at Fredericton, N.B., Aug. 25. It is a very hot
place, and Dr. Parker thinks it would be unwise to
expose myself to the heat. He dissuades me also from
attempting a journey to Montreal, even if it were broken
up into three days. You will conclude from this that I
am in a feeble state. Nevertheless, if the weather
should become cool about the beginning of September, I
might possibly venture on a short trip from home, but
cannot form any plans at present ; an old man of eighty-
two cannot plan, and that will be my age on the 25th inst."
The journey to Montreal was taken contrary to
expectation, and the following refers to the return
trip : —
359
"Nov. 8, 1878.
" The journey was j)ei*formed, after we left you, with
comparative ease. . . .
" To-morrow I must get to woi'k. Opportunity and
strength will fail as time passes on, but we must work,
as the Lord said, ' while it is day.' The resting-time is
not far off."
"Dec. 4, 1879.
"... My health continues about the same as usual.
I suffer some annoyance from trifling causes, but they
are bagatelles which need not be much regarded. I soon
get weary, and my eyesight is failing. This troubles
me much in writing, so that the pen sometimes seems to
slip out of straightness. What little work I do must be
done before nine o'clock, and I retire at ten.
"... I have been greatly interested lately in the
study of Farrar's ' Life and Work of St. Paul.' It is a
splendid performance. All clergymen should read it.
But my reading days are nearly ended. I cannot sit
long at the desk. But I have sat there a good many
hours in time past, and have reason to be very thankful
for the beuefit received.
"It may seem strange to a younger man, but the fact
is, I am tired by writing this note ! So must lay down
the pen, with love to all of you. I think I will write
oftener in future."
" Jan. 27, 1880.
"... The outlook abroad is very gloomy. The car-
toon in Punch, representing the British lion ' at bay,' is,
I fear, a true representation of the actual state of affairs.
Gladstone has made a triumphal progress through
Scotland, but there is a hard light before him."
" May 14, 1880.
"... I have had a somewhat trying indisposition in
the shape of influenza. . . .
360
" Now I am recovered, and am about as usual, but the
general weakness is doubtless increasing, as must be
expected, and, as the Apostle Peter says, I may expect
' shortly to put off this tabernacle.' It is a merciful and
wise arrangement that the time of future events is
hidden fi*om us. Hezekiah had his life lengthened for
fifteen years, and therefore knew, generally, how long he
had to stay in the world ; though it is not likely that his
knowledge was more particular, including month and day,
as well as year — for that would not have been merciful.
As it was, he probably watched the flight of time very
anxiously, and felt unusual emotion when the fourteenth
year ended. Christians are better circumstanced,"
To his son : —
" Aug. 24, 1880.
" I have bought a lot in our new cemetery, and intend
removing your mother's remains, that I may rest in the
same place till the day of rising again. It will come, for
* the dead shall be raised incorruptible.' I do not trouble
myself with modern speculations on that subject, but am
content with the facts and promises of Scripture. God
is true, and His word will not fail, although the end is
unknown.
"I have read the Greek New Testament sixty-six
times —
' And still new beauties do I see,
And still increasing light.' "
To his daughter, Mrs. Muir : —
" Aug. 30, 1880.
"... Your visit was like an oasis in a desert —
supremely welcome and gratefully remembered. I may
not hope for a repetition of it, and have only need to
think of ' the land of silence and of death,' which cer-
tainly will be ' my next remove.' We cannot defer it.
361
When the Lord turns the key, the door will open. May
it be our unspeakable bliss to ' enter into the joy of the
Lord,'
"Your affectionate father,
"J. M. Cramp."
To his son : —
" Feb. 3, 1881.
"... These checks and hindrances to our comforts
make up the history of each person, and a moral lesson
is no doubt derivable from them. David could say, ' It
is good foi- me that I have been afi3icted,' and many a
man has traced his greatest blessings to his sharpest
pains, and clearly discerned the connection, acknowledg-
ing the righteousness of the Divine government. There
are many nij^steries in God's dispensations; but the
answer in all cases is, ^ It is God,'' — and that will satisfy
a reasonable man, who does not want to know all the
ins and outs of affairs, but says, ' I can wait,' ' Thy will
be done.' Let us be willing to learn in that school.
"... I was sorry to hear of the death of Senator P.
I knew his father, who was a worthy deacon of the Bajj-
tist church in Eagle Street, London, and also treasurer of
the Baptist Magazine. Mr. M.'s death was very painful,
a great loss to the ' Olivet ' Church.
" God's dispensations are sometimes charged b}' us as
mysterious, which is but another name for our ignorance.
The Divine plans are good, and wise and right, but the
complete understanding of them is reserved for another
world, where, as the Apostle Paul says, 'We shall know
as we are known.' "
These are only extracts from the letters, the
portions relating to family matters being omitted.
But they are enough to show the channel in
which the thoughts were running. They also
362
show that when the writer recorded, " I have
written during the year 240 letters," and again,
" 380 or 420 letters," these figures represent no
small amount of work.
For several years after Dr. Cramp retired from
public life, he kept up the habit of attending asso-
ciations and conventions as heretofore. His inter-
est in public matters suffered no abatement. He
watched educational and political movements as
closely as ever. "Wherever he saw danger of retro-
gression, he raised a warning note. His motto
was " Progress," and his brain and pen were both
busy, in order to promote it His chief care, how-
ever, was towards the kingdom of Christ in the
world. If he took less part in the discussions of
important questions at public gatherings, it was
only because he felt less able to do it. But he
had a feeling of great satisfaction in knowing that
one result of his long labors was, that many men
were raised up who could seize the helm when
his own grasp of it was loosening. This thought
gave him rest. ' Instead of the fathers shall be
the children," he would say, "and the succession
is sure to be kept up." " When David failed,
Solomon was on hand," " When Paul was ' ready
to be offered,' Timothy was ready for the service."
More frequent visits were made during these
latter years to the members of his family in Mont-
real and elsewhere. These were greatly enjoyed
both by himself and them ; and they were always
found to be beneficial to his health and stimulat-
ing to his general activity. Their earnest solici-
363
tations might frequently have induced him to
prolong the time of these visits, only, whatever
comforts their homes could offer, his own library
was not there. And without his large daily mail,
by which he was brought into contact with the
world's movements, he was never quite at rest.
No business or professional man on his return
from a furlough, met greater arrears of work than
he did after a few days' absence. It would some-
times take him a full week to open, examine,
read and make up for the lost time. If this was
not rest, it was to him far more restful than the
torture of feeling that he was by any neglect
falling behind the movements of the age. The
pastors and the churches were constantly on his
thoughts. He never failed, as opportunity offered,
to make enquiry as to their welfare. Difficulty with
any of them was a source of grief. Their prosper-
ity was his joy. That the college, during his
presidency, had sent out a number of young men,
who were becoming efficient workers in the vine-
yard of the Lord, was a source of special gratifica-
tion to him. He followed, with his sympathies
and prayers, each and all. A tender, paternal
regard for them was in his heart continually.
And it is within the knowledge of the writer,
that, only a year or so before his departure, he
was endeavouring to mature plans for the assist-
ance of some of them, who were either over-
worked or not meeting with the desired success.
Failing powers probably prevented the execution
of many of those, but, like David with the Temple,
i
364
it was in his heart to do it, and doubtless was
accepted of the Lord as service rendered.
It was in many senses a season of rest. For it
was far more restful to Dr. Cramp to feel that he
was still doing something for humanity and Grod,
than to believe that he was entirely dismissed
from the service.
These years of respite from public responsibili-
ties produced a great change in Dr. Cramp in the
direction of developing the social qualities of his
nature. He had always loved intercourse with
friends, and visits from members of the family
were highly prized, but in former years he was
so completely engrossed with work, that there
was hardly an hour to be spared for domestic or
social comforts. A little impatience was keenly
felt, though seldom manifested, when interrup-
tions occurred.
During these latter years there was a marked
change He welcomed and even hungered some-
times for intercoLirse with friends. The visits of
children and grandchildren were seasons of spe-
cial delight. He looked forward to them with
pleasure, and thoroughly enjoyed every hour while
they lasted. He entered also into everything
pertaining to home life as never before. There
were frequent walks, as long as strength permit-
ted, in the garden; vegetation was noticed, the
flowers were admired, and he entered with real
zest into many small matters of daily life, in which
formerly he seemed to feel no interest whatever.
The natural buoyancy of his heart asserted itself
365
as soon as the burdens which seem sometimes to
tnrn even young people into old ones were re-
moved. His season of rest became, therefore, a
season of cheerfulness.
Among the pleasant reminiscences of this period,
a short visit from his friend and countryman, the
late Kev. Dr. Spurden, with Mrs. Spurden, was
often referred to with great satisfaction.
The opportunity thus afforded of recalling many
mutually interesting events of earlier life in their
native land, and discussing the changes that had
transpired among friends, and scenes connected
with those days, was one seldom enjoyed, and
therefore specially welcome.
Amid it all he could frequently say : " Return
unto thy rest, O my soul, for the Lord hath dealt
bountifully with thee." There was much satis-
faction to him in reviewing the past, which he
often did with heartfelt thankfulness ; but there
was much more in anticipating the future, that
became brighter and more glorious as the hasty
months sped away. There were many sweet fore-
tastes of "the rest remaining." He may have had
doubts as others do ; if so, he seldom gave an ex-
pression to them, for he fully believed that the
promises of Grod are " yea and amen " in Christ
Jesus our Lord. It cannot be doubted that the
partial rest of those last twelve years of a busy life
is now lost and swallowed up in the aubroken
repose of the heavenly home.
CHAPTEE XYIII.
" THE LAST THINGS."
" Last words are sacred treasures laid up in the casket of
memory, — echoes that repeat themselves till recollection fails.
But the life is a more reliable witness."
Among the MSS. papers written by Dr. Cramp,
during the quiet years that followed more active
labours, one, bearing the title given above, contains
a full expression of many thoughts connected with
the close of life here, carried forward also to the
bright future prospects that to him always inclu-
ded its continuance and perfection when " absent
from the body.'
Referring to the uncertainty connected with the
time of death, and consequent need of a w^atchful
readiness for the summons, the following sen-
tences occur : —
" There is one thing that is satisfying to the Christian.
His Saviour has the charge of the whole affair. He em-
ploys His servants as He pleases. He calls them home
when their work is done. He has the keys of the invi-
sible world, and of death.
" When He turns the key, the door opens, and the
believer enters the invisible abode.
f
367
"Till then, he is a stranger and pilgrim on earth. He
is contented with this arrangement; he emulates Paul,
being ready to go, but willing to stay, though the stay-
ing may involve toil and sorrow, if so be, it may be
' more needful ' for the work of God."
Possessed of this calm confidence, his entrance
upon what proved to be the last year on earth,
seemed marked by even an accession of cheerful
interest in all that surrounded life here, and even-
ing shadov^s were so brightened by the setting
sun, that they gathered imperceptibly. A frequent
reference to the near approach of death, observed
formerly, was less noticed, though the thought
might have been more constantly dwelt upon, it
seldom found expression. In the month of Feb-
ruary, the unexpected arrival of his eldest son was
a great gratification, and the few days spent to-
gether were often referred to as having afforded
an especial pleasure.
Thomas Cramp was, indeed, a sou of whom his
father might well be proud. In the city of Mon-
treal, and to those interested in its commerce, and
to the public men of Canada generally, he was as
well known and equally respected as Dr. Cramp
by the Baptist denomination ; and his unusual
abilities, which early led to his occupying impor-
tant positions in connection with Canadian trade
and navigation, were joined to a most amiable dis-
position, and a constant readiness to spend himself
to save others, promote public objects, or aid in
good works. He was not destined long to survive
his father, and his unexpected and premature
368
death was mourned by all who knew him. (See
Appendix.)
His coming had always brought comfort and
satisfaction to his father, who relied with imx^licit
confidence in his calm, wise judgment and tender
consideration. Through many years of a busy life,
devoted largely to important public affairsof widen-
ing interest and responsibility, no detail that could
minister to his father's gratification had ever been
forgotten. To him he was frequently indebted for
the ability to exercise the benevolence that was
truly part of his nature, a generosity fully shared
by the one who often quietly made it possible.
This characteristic finds a description in a
favourite line, bearing the mark of approval, in Dr.
Cramp's copy of The Christian Year.
" He only, who forgets to hoard,
Has learned to live."
Grreatly in sympathy as regarded literary tastes,
their discussions on new books, periodicals, and
topics of the times, were reviewed with keen
pleasure whenever opportunity offered. On this
occasion, a recent visit to his native land afforded
fresh interest. Reminiscences of Thanet and old
friends in England — the political horizon, with
descriptions of many public men of the day — filled
up the fast fleeting hours.
" My father is a most remarkable man," said his
son, on regretfully closing their conversation when
about to leave.
Frequent visits from members of his family and
369
friends, during this last year, were a source of
comfort ; nor was there much diminution in the
satisfaction afforded by reading and writino-,
though failing strength did not permit prolonged
efforts. Among letters written at this period, one,
on the subject of " Weekly Communion," may be
inserted here. It is addressed to his son-in-law,
G-. B. Muir, Esq., who had requested a statement
of his views on that point : —
"P^eb. 28, 1881.
"... The principal argument in favour of the prac-
tice is dei-ived from the history of the Lord's day. The
setting apart of the first day of the week, as a day of
rest and worship, took place very early ; and the history
of the worship then celebrated shows that a component
part of it was the Communion ; it was the crowning act
of the day, which was spent as we spend it now. Every
Lord's day was so spent. We have no authoritj^ to
separate one Lord's day from others, as though it was
holier than the rest; that would be a Jewish practice,
for they ' observed days,' etc. All Lord's days are alike
holy. Monthly or quarterly Communion wants New
Testament precedent, and can only plead tradition and
human custom in their favour. I think the evening is
the best time for the celebration. It should be the
closing service of the day, and there should be sufficient
time allowed to render it efficient and impressive, which
cannot be when it is a hurried appendage to the morning
service.
" Put these scattered hints together and think them
over, and plead primitive practice. Weekly Commu-
nion is regularly observed in all English cathedrals.
Our Baptist brethren in Scotland, and the Independents
there, keep up the same practice. It will universally
24
3Y0
prevail, I feel assured, when ' the Spirit is poured out
from on high.'
"I must close. The Loi-d guide, guard, and bless you
all!"
Many instances of keen sympathy in affairs of
the outer world, recur to those who were familiar
with his daily life. Well do they remember the
eagerness with which he awaited the appearance
of the revised version of the New Testament, and
the pleasure manifested when the first copy, sent
by Dr. Angus, was placed in his hands ; then the
writing an article for the Press with reference to
it, difficult and painful though the effort had now
become.
During the summer of 1881, frequent attempts
were made to continue his usual contributions to
the Christian Messenger, and several short reviews
of new books and memorial notices of deceased
friends, appeared from time to time.
Writing to his eldest son, July 9, 1881, he thus
describes his manner of life : —
" As to myself, I am seldom able to walk about with-
out the aid of a stick. I can read pretty much as usual,
but in writing am apt to exhibit the defects of decaying
eyesight. When Moses says that the man who reaches
eighty, does it ' by reason of strength,' he lays down a
great principle, which admits of many exceptions. In
my case, it is quietness and regularity of life, not
' strength.' I have opened a vein of moralising, but
must desist."
Again —
"Nov. 2, 1881.
" Yours of the 8th inst. reached me yesterday, and I
371
take the earliest opportunity of sitting down to pen a
few lines in reply. They can be but few, however, for I
am not competent to much work. I seem to be in fair
spirits, and can enjoy reading and pleasant conversation,
but application to anything soon tires me. Neverthe-
less, I have much to be thankful for. I am free from
pain, I can enjoy food, ray daily Bible readings contri-
bute to comfort and pleasure, and, though I cannot walk
far, I can sit an indefinite time in my library and amuse
myself with the papers ; while, in their columns, I am
furnished with sad records of crime and suttering, which,
fifty years ago, would have produced melancholy, but
now pass by unheeded, as constituting the general news
of the day, which I can receive without being affected
by it— not that I am destitute of feeling, but I am not
troubled or worried as I used to be, and can be indiffer-
ent on occasions which formerly produced vexation, or
even anger. Old age has its chills and fogs, before it
settles down in frost.
" You remember the spot where we left the remains of
your dear mother. I had it enclosed with an iron rail-
ing, which has since been removed to our new cemetery,
and another grave prepared, alongside of which my
resting-place will be. I hope you will be able to accom-
plish your purpose of returning via Halifax. We long
to see you.
"I am,
" Your affectionate father,
"J. M. Cramp."
His daily journal, a brief record of books read,
letters written, etc., contains the following entry
for Nov. 23, 1881 :— " Finished Greek Testament
for the 68th time." The words " Laus Deo"
usually follow this statement in previous years,
3Y2
but writing had become too difficult to admit
additions to the fact, eloquent in its simplicity.
A ready sympathy with those suffering under
bereavement was a well-known characteristic. It
was his invariable custom to write at once on
hearing of the presence of affliction, and many
letters of this nature attest the tenderness and sin-
cerity of his feelings at such times. One of the
last efforts of his pen was called forth by the in-
telligence of a sad loss sustained by our mission-
ary friends. Rev. Gr. Churchill and Mrs. Churchill.
The following words of consolation were sent
without delay : —
"WoLFViLLE, Nov. 6, 1881.
"... I read yesterday, in one of our local papers, a
statement that made my heart ache. It was to the
effect that you had both been down with fever, and that
your little boy had been cari"ied away by it.
"... And now, what is to be done? You may
copy Job, and say, ' The Lord gave, and the Lord hath
taken away.' You know the rest ; you may copy Eli,
and exclaim, 'It is the Lord, let Him do what seemeth
Him good ;' you may imitate the friends of Paul (Acts
xxi., 14), and whisper, ' The will of the Lord be done.'
I think I hear you say, ' How can this be done ?' Turn
to Heb. iv., 15-16. Put it in practice ; it will be a healing
balm to your wounded spirits.
" I am a very old man, and this effort has wearied me,
but it may possibly do you good, and that will be an
ample reward. One of the good old Puritans had a cus-
tomary form of salute when he met a friend. It was
' God is good,' and that is true still.
" Yours faithfully,
"J. M. Cramp."
3^3
Looking back upon the last few weeks of the
life so soon to close, brings only the remembrance
of a quiet waiting-time undisturbed by the pain of
illness, and often brightened by intercourse with
friends and the visits of his family. Towards the
end of October, his younger son, Gr. B. Cramp,
spent some days with him, and was impressed by
his vigor of mind and the happiness of his daily
life, restricted as it had now become, being chiefly
spent in his library and adjoining room. It was
observed that in saying " good-bye," instead of
referring to the unlikelihood of again meeting, he
seemed able to look forward to the possibility of
extending another welcome ere long.
But this was not to be. The few days preced-
ing the last brief illness were not marked by any
special circumstances, shewing that he felt premo-
nitions of the approaching event. A slight acces-
sion of weakness on Friday, Dec. 2, obliged him
to call in medical aid, but he soon recovered his
wonted vivacity.
The arrival of the English mail, with its wel-
come variety of news, aroused unfailing interest,
and, seated in his easy chair, surrounded by the
Times, Illustrated News, etc., he seemed as well as
usual.
The funeral of a friend had taken place that day,
and on his enquiring about the service, reference
was made to the hymns used, when he said,
"There is one that I consider specially suitable
for such an occasion, particularly this verse,"
repeating —
S14
" Far from this world of toil and strife,
They're present with the Lord.
The labors of this mortal life
End in a large reward."
A somewhat restless night was followed by a day
of weakness, without pain, but, towards its close,
increasing prostration obliged him to give up the
effort of rising, a most unusual circumstance.
Alluding to this, when a friend called in, he said,
in a cheerful manner, " I don't like staying in bed,
but am obliged ;" then added, with seriousness,
" It is all right." Towards evening, every alarm-
ing symptom increased ; but a heavenly calm
rested on his spirit. After listening to the 40th
Psalm, he said, with solemnity, " It is time for
prayer," offering up a most earnest and compre-
hensive petition, committing himself, and those
dear to him, with the Church of Grod, to the
Divine compassion. During that night of restless-
ness, and rapid sinking of the mortal powers, one
subject only occupied his thoughts, even in the
occasional wanderings that were observed. Then
it was that he asked for the hymn, " All hail the
power of Jesus' name ;" seeming disappointed that
no one could sing it. After the last verse had
been repeated, he raised his now faltering voice,
and sang it through, saying, at the close, " That's
it !" " Crown Him, Lord of all," dwelling with
evident delight on the sentiments expressed in
the concluding lines.
He was to see another " Lord's day," but its
dawning found him very near the eternal Sab-
S15
bath, " quite on the verge of Heaven," and resting
calmly on the promises, — manifesting pleasure as
they were occasionally repeated, especially the
words contained in John xvii., 24.
He spoke of having " given a text " (John iii., 16)
to one present, hoping he would " remember it ; "
and was able to see several friends as the day
passed on.
One theme alone was present to his mind, even
during the partial cloud of unconscious wander-
ing, and the work and service in which his life
had been so happily and usefully spent, formed
the subject of constant reference. Scenes in the
life of the Apostle Paul were re-called, then the
class-room re-visited, while almost the wonted
fervor and energy could be traced in his occa-
sional utterances. The arrival, on the following
day, of those members of his family who were
able to reach him in time for a last interview,
seemed to revive the fast-failing powers, other
friends also obtaining a word or look of recogni-
tion. The pastor, the late Dr. de Blois, paid a
farewell visit, and offered prayer, in the afternoon.
Mr. Selden, his son-in-law, who had been with
him during the day, being about to leave, was
requested to sing the hymn, "All hail the power
of Jesus' name !" which afforded evident pleasure.
His old friend, Mr. Barss, who had hastened from
a long journey to see him, came in a little later.
To his question, "Is it peace ?" the reply, "Happy,
happy, happy !" was uttered with difficulty, but
abundantly confirmed by the peaceful expression
376
resting upon his countenance. These words were
the last that could be understood ; consciousness
continued through the evening, but the power of
utterance was gone. He still evinced his pleasure
in sacred themes, assenting to the words of Scrip-
ture as repeated to him, and waited, evidently
resting on the Eock of Ages ... At length, " The
weary wheels of life stood still;" and on the mor-
ning of Tuesday, Dec. 6, " He was not, for God
took him."
" Servant of God : well done !
Rest from thy loved employ,
The battle fought, the victory won,
Enter thy Master's joy."
The following account of the funeral services is
taken from one of the Halifax daily papers : —
" WoLFviLLE, Dec. 8.
" The funeral of the late Rev. J. M. Cramp, D.D., took
place from his late residence this afternoon. During the
day, many callers were admitted to see the remains. As
he lay in his library, surrounded by the thousands of
volumes he had prized, he suggested the poem composed
on the death of Bryant :
' Dead among his books he lay.'
" A number of clergymen of different denominations
v^^ere present. The funeral services were conducted by
the pastor of the Wolfville Church, Eev. Dr. de Blois.
After a short service at the house, the procession was
formed, including the Sons of Temperance, members of
the Grand and Sub-Division, the Faculty and students of
Acadia College, in addition to large numbers of friends.
The casket was carried into the church, and remained
d11
there during the services. These consisted of iinthera by
the choir :
' Blessed are the dead.'
" The hymn —
' Asleep in Jesus,'
read by Rev. S. B. Kempton, was sung, after which Eev.
Dr. Welton read the 90th Psalm, and the Eev. Dr. Sawyer
offered prayer. The hymn —
' Servant of God, well done !'
was read by Eev. Thos. Eogers, after which the pastor
preached a very appropriate discourse from 2 Tim. 4, 7,
'I have fought a good fight.' Dr. de Blois gave a brief,
but very clear exhibit of the hibors and character of the
deceased. Having been intimate with him for thirty
years, no one was better prepared to render this last tri-
bute to his memory.
"At the close of this address the hj^mn, read by the
Eev. J.B.Logan, 'Hear what the voice from Heaven
proclaims,' was sung, and prayer offered by the Eev. Dr.
Crawley. The large congregation were then j)ermitted
to hie by the body and look their last look upon one
who has been a conspicuous public man for over sixty
years.
"After the pi-ocession had re-formed, the remains were
taken to the new cemetery, and deposited by the side of
his wife. The burial service was pronounced by pastor
de Blois, and the Eev. Dr. Saunders closed the proceed-
ings by prayer and benediction. The church was ap-
propriately draped for the occasion, and all the Faculty
and students of the college wore mourning."
The following expression from the Board of
G-overnors of Acadia College, will show the kindly
relations existing between that body and deceased :
3*78
"Eev. Dr. Cramp.
" Ed.Visitor. — Please insert the following resolution of
condolence passed at a meeting of the Boai'd of Governors
of Acadia College, Dec. 15th, 1881 : —
" 'Our Heavenly Father in his wise Providence has
taken home to himself our beloved brother in Christ, Rev.
Dr. Cramp. The event, though not unexpected, for he had
reached a ripe age, fills us with a sense of personal and
public bereavement. This Board, and our whole Denom-
ination has sustained a great loss, for though removed
from active service through the weight of years for some
time past, his sympathies were with us and his prayers
unceasing in our behalf.
" ' Of the work performed for Acadia College by our
deceased brother it is needless, if it were not impossible,
for us to speak particularly. For his labors were inces-
sant and abundant, and such as only a Christian man
endowed with his great qualities of mind and heart, as-
sisted by his wonderful and varied learning, could per-
form. They were labors for which Acadia College owes
the most profound thanks to the Giver of all good.
" * When Dr. Cramp came to take charge of our institu-
tions of learning, great difficulties lay in our way, great
discouragement was upon the hearts of its friends and
patrons, and since then our way at times has been
through serious trials.
" 'But from the first he manifested, and he ever main-
tained, a cheerful manly courage, and a truly Christian
faith. To this spirit, as well as to the great eftbrts he put
forth, is due, in great measure, the success that Acadia
College has enjoyed.
" ' Our remembrance of the zeal of Dr. Cramp, in all our
denominational enterprises, is grateful and will long be
cherished. He sought to inspire all around him with zeal
for Christ and his cause.
*f
3*79
" ' By his pen he not only defended the truth, but he
sought to comfort his brethren and to confirm their faith.
" 'The pastors of our churches, our home and foreign
missionaries, will greatly miss his kind and wise counsel
and sympathy.
" ' With the Board of Governors Dr. Cramp ever sus-
tained kind and pleasant relationship. Before the Board
he brought wise and generous measures of usefulness ; to
the Board he looked for co-operation and support ; and
with the Board, through all the changes and events of its
official history, he maintained the most amicable rela-
tions.
" ' We have lost a dear friend, but our Lord has taken
him from us. He rests from his labors and his ' works
follow 'him.
" ' To his family in their bereavement we tender our sin-
cere sympathy. Ma}- the God of their honored father
grant to them abundantly the consolations of his grace.'
" B}" order of the Board,
" S. W. DE Blois, Sec'y.
" Wolfville, Dec. 15, 1881."
In addition to other expressions of regard from
former students of Acadia College, the Alumni
Association placed a Tablet in the library bearing
the following inscription : —
In Memoeiaji.
JOHN MOCKETT CRAMP, D.D.,
President of Acadia College for many years.
Died at Wolfville, Dec. 6, 1881,
Aged 84 yeaks.
"The second Foundek of Acadia,"
First elected President in 1851.
He continued his connection with this College upwards of
30 YEARS.
Erected by the Alumni of the College.
APPENDIX.
THOMAS CEAMP.
Eeference has been made, in the foregoing volume,
to this eldest son of Dr. Cramp. A somewhat more ex-
tended notice will not be unacceptable to the reader.
If he has taken an interest in Dr. Cramp's parents and
forefathers, in their worth and works, he will be pleased
to learn that one of his children should have so spent
his time, and employed his talents in the service of his
fellows and the commonwealth, that, on his premature
decease, his fellow-citizens deemed no marks of honour
and respect too great to pay to his memory.
A constant resident in Montreal from the year 1844,
date of the arrival there of the Cramp family, he early
took a prominent position and held a leading place in
the commercial, political and social life of his adopted
land. He survived his father scarcely more than three
years; dying on 18th February, 1885, Mi 51 ; meeting
his death, as will be seen, through exposure, in the
service of a philanthropic institution.
The following extracts from newspapers published at
the time, in the city of Montreal, will give a short
sketch of his life, and some idea of the universal esteem
382
in which he was held. Every periodical in that city
contained leading articles in reference to him, with an
account of his life and works, and expressions of the
highest appreciation of the worth of the deceased, and
the general grief at his loss — but space will not permit
of their entire production : —
(T/ie Times, Montreal, Feb. 18, 1885.)
"Thomas Cramp.
" Nothing could have been more surprising or start-
ling to our business men and fellow-citizens generally
than the news which, this morning, circulated through
the city that Mr. Thomas Cramp was no more. The
feeling was intensitied from the knowledge conveyed by
the public press that, almost the day before, he had at-
tended to his business affairs ajsparently in his ordinary
health and spirits, and, in response to the calls upon his
noble spirit of philanthropy, had, in the evening, taken
a prominent part at a meeting of the Boys' Home, when
he availed himself of the opportunity of addressing to
them and for them timely words of counsel and en-
couragement. We learn that on Saturday Mr. Cramp
had experienced a slight pain and soreness in his throat,
to which he paid no attention; but which on Sunday
became greater, particularly on his way home from
church. Feeling no worse, and attaching no importance
to the affection, he went down to business as usual on
Monday, not leaving his office until half-past six. He
attended the meeting we have referred to in the even-
ing, because he considered it a duty incumbent upon
him, although he was somewhat out of sorts, and the
weather more than ordinarily tempestuous. On Tues-
day he became seriously ill, and early in the day grave
383
doubts were expressed as to the possibility of his re-
covery. In the afternoon, the symptoms became so
alarming that, after consultations between Di-s. Howard,
Eoddick and Bell, it was determined to perform an
operation upon the thi-oat. This afforded temporary
relief, but it soon became apparent that Mr. Cramp's
case was hopeless, and he passed away this morning at
four o'clock. To say that the life of the deceased had
been an active and a useful one, that he had a bright
and keen intellect, that he was esteemed for his many
excellent qualities, not only by the mercantile com-
munity, but in social circles and benevolent efforts,
would scarcely describe his nature, for his was a more
than ordinarily noble character. In everything Avhich
tended to promote the best interests of Montreal, and
indeed, the whole country, he was — to say the least of
it — foremost. Those who knew him best have in every
sense lost a wise and kindly counsellor. Indeed, Mont-
real has not, for a long time, experienced so great a loss
by the death of one of her inhabitants.
"Mr. Cramp was born in April, 1827, in London,
England, and came to this country in 1844 with his
father, the late Eev. Dr. Cramp, who had been ap-
pointed President of the Canadian Baptist College in
this city. Shortly after his arrival here he entered
the office of Messrs. John Leeming & Co., then one of
the leading atiction and commission houses in Canada.
Soon after, he obtained a position with the old and
influential firm of John Torrance & Co., this firm
being succeeded by that of David Torrance & Co., in
which Mr. Cramp was a partner for about thirty-five
years, becoming head of the establishment on the demise
of Mr. David Torrance. His business career has been
a most stirring one, the firm being at one time the
largest exporters and importers in the St. Lawrence
384
trude; and to this Mr. Cramp materially contributed.
He was considered, in fact, so experienced and reliable
an authority on commercial matters that, as an adviser,
he was largely sought after. Among many positions
which he filled, have been that of Director in the Liver-
pool, London & Globe Insurance Company, the Molsons
and Union Banks, the Canada Guai-antee Company, and
a host of other positions of responsibility and usefulness.
He had filled the office, sevei-al times, of President of the
Board of Trade, and, during his whole life, was one of
its most active members, taking part in all the deliber-
ations which affected the trade of the country. While
at the head of the Board, in 1860, it will be remembered
that the Norwegian corvette Ornen arrived in port, the
event being appropriately celebrated. For the interest
which he took in this affair the King of Sweden and
Norway invested him with the order of St. Olaf
" Among the very last compliments paid to the de-
ceased by the merchants of Monti-eal was his election,
the other day, to the Presidency of the Corn Exchange ;
and he had just begun to introduce some much needed
reforms in the government of that body. But it was
in matters connected with the port of Montreal, that
Mr. Cramp's great ability and fai'-sightedness were best
manifested, especially in connection with the harbor, he
having, for many years, been a member of the Commis-
sion, succeeding the late Hon. John Young as Chairman.
There are few, if any, matters which directly affected
the shipping interests of the St. Lawrence, which did
not engage his serious consideration, and his name will
long be remembered in connection with those import-
ant concerns.
" Of late years Mr. Cramp had devoted himself almost
exclusively to the ocean carrying trade. In 1872, the
line of steamships known in England as ' The Liverpool
385
and Mississippi/ of which Captain Flynn was the head,
was induced, through the exertions of Mr. Cramp, to
trade with the St. Lawrence, the name of the line beino-
changed at that date to ' the Mississippi and Dominion
Steamship Company,' Messrs. David Torrance & Co.,
being then appointed the agents. At that date the
gross tonnage of the vessels supplying the service was
9,072, the vessels being the Mississippi, Captain Bou-
chette ; the Yicksburg, Captain Pearson ; the Memphis,
Captain Weeks, now the Company's agent in New
Orleans; and the St. Louis, Captain Eoberts. The
energy with which the line has been managed since the
time of its organization is abundantly shown by the
increase in its tonnage to 38,910 and the improved class of
vessels which it now owns. We ma}^ add that during
the writer's residence in Montreal, about thirty years,
Mr. Cramp had always been a prominent member of
every delegation seeking concession or redress at the
hands of the Government. In politics, Mr. Cramp was
a staunch Liberal, and never swerved from the political
principles which he held. This much can be said of
him, that he never was known to otfend a single mem-
ber of the party to which he was opposed. In temper,
in fact, he was, perhaps, the most calm man we have
known, even in the discussion of the most burning ques-
tions, and was personally held in the highest esteem by
evej-y member of the Conservative Party.
" The late Mr. Cramp leaves a widow, to whom he was
married in 1866, and had two children, a boy and a
girl. Among those who specially mourn his loss are his
four sisters, iMi-s. G. B. Muir, of this city; Mrs. T. A.
Higgins of Wolfville, Nova Scotia; Mrs, Stephen
Selden, of Halifax ; and one unmarried. Mr. G. B.
Cramp, the well-known advocate, of this city, is his
brother. Mr. Cramp will be sadly missed in every circle
25
386
of life, particularly by the inmates of the Deaf and
Dumb Institute, the Boys' Home, Ladies' Benevolent
Institution and many kindred establishments. The
funeral will take place on Saturday afternoon, at two
o'clock, from his residence, St. Urbain street."
{Montreal Herald, Feb. 19, 1885.)
" The Late Mr. Thomas Cramp,
"a void left in commercial circles that cannot be adequately
FILLED — deceased's CAREER IN MONTREAL
FOR FORTY YEARS.
" It is a long time in the history of Montreal since
any local event or calamity has happened that awakened
so much surprise and profound regret and sympathy as
the announcement yesterday morning of the entire un-
expected death of the late Mr. Thomas Cramp. Those
who knew deceased intimately felt the blow as a per-
sonal affliction, and all who had met him in life were
bowed down with grief and emotion for his loss. His
presence in his daily haunts here was so recent, and
nothing being known of his illness, every one expressed
a hope the report was untrue, but on proceeding to the
office of D. Torrance & Son, the sight of the sad emblem
of mortality left no longer room to doubt that their
former friend's spirit had taken flight from earth. The
fatal news becoming current early in the morning,
nothing else was thought of, and as friend met friend
the absorbiug subject was the irreparable loss that had
fallen upon the city. Everyone who had known the
man whose prominence as a citizen has been long ad-
mitted, had nothing upon their lips to say of the de-
ceased but to praise his merits and extol his genial
manner.
SSI
"That he had rare gifts of intellect, of oratory, not,
however, of the ornate style, and persuasive eloquence
in public all acknowledged. His great services in be-
half of the city and port, as well as all our public bene-
volent institutions, were recognized in the most com-
plimentarj^ terms. Who will fill his place ? was repeatedly
asked. But no one would venture to answer, and no
wonder; for the deceased was no ordinaiy man in any
respect, as those who have measured his mental calibre
can testify. There was probably no commercial man in
this great city, who had only received a practical busi-
ness education like deceased, who was his peer in
having such a well-stored mind from extensive reading
of the highest literature of every description. His rich
fund of information, particularly on local and national
questions, was well known to all members of the Press
who had the pleasure of knowing him. The writer has
had much personal experience in drawing upon the
never-fliiling stores of valuable information which the
subject of this obituary notice possessed. It was like a
fountain that never ceased to flow, and it always came
with such geniality and facility of expression that
captivated the listener, and made the most abstruse
subject clear and simple
"Deceased's business instincts and training gave him a
methodical system of conducting all assemblies he pre-
sided over. He had a difficult function to perform when
apj)ointed to take up the important work of the harbor
and river, left unfinished b}' his accomplished pi-edeces-
soi", the Hon. John Young. How well he succeeded is
known by the thanks he received from the Board when
the exigencies of politics obliged him to retire from the
office. The most striking testimony to his merits in
the office of President is the fact that his successor has
followed on the lines laid down by the late Messrs.
388
Cramp and Honorable John Young. Ever since his
retirement, the late Mr. Cramp has taken as deep an
interest as previously in promoting every well-devised
scheme to improve the port and increase its supremacy
on this continent. His views were often deferred to,
and he was looked upon as an authority on all projects
connected with the harbor. Deceased's advice was
equally sought and valued in connection with com-
mercial troubles or intricacies arising in public bodies,
that his clear judgment and preciseness soon settled.
One of his greatest achievements has been the successful
founding of a fleet of magnificent steamships which are
not surpassed in any part of the world, with a tonnage
of nearly 40,000 tons, and all accomplished in a few
years.
"The deceased inherited from his father that love of
freedom which the old English Whigs were so conspicu-
ous for. He was not extreme in his political views, and
like many other intellectual Liberals, here and through-
out Canada, espoused the National Policy, He was not
an office-seeker, and never deserted the principles he set
out on. Probably no citizen in any statioa had such a
placid and kindly disposition as deceased. Even in the
heat of debate he never wounded the feelings of the
most sensitive of his opponents, and it is a proverb that
he never made an enemy. In his long career in com-
merce his credit and integrity were unimpeached and
unimpeachable. He was universally respected and es-
teemed for every good quality that adorns an honor-
able, upright and honest man. . . The deceased identified
himself both by his purse and public advocacy with all
our benevolent institutions, and will be sadly missed in
the sphere of doing good in an unpretentious way. The
inscrutable hand of death has been severe in Montreal
of late, many of its most estimable and honored citizens
389
having fallen before the scythe of time, but the memo-
ries of none will remain longer engraven on the hearts
of friends than those of noble Thomas Cramp. ..."
{Montreal Daily Witness, Feb. 18th, 1885.)
" The Corn Exchange sorrows for its President's
DEATH.
"A meeting of the members of the Corn Exchange
was held to-day at twelve o'clock, to express their sense
of the loss sustained in the sudden death of Mr. Cramp,
President of the association. Amongst those present
were : — Messrs. James Allen, Eobert Archer, John Baird,
John Brodie, Charles Drummond, E. W. Esdaile, W. J.
Fairbairn, Charles H. Gould, Eobert Hampson, J. Ct.
Hunsicker, W. F. Johnston, Edgar Judge, H. Labelle,
John Magor, James Macdougall, Alexander McFee, J. B.
McLea, I). A. McPherson, John Ogilvie, W. W. Ogilvie,
E. Eeddie, D. G. Eees, David Eobertson, E. T. Eouth,
S. St. Onge, W. Stewart, D. A. P. Watt, John M. Young
and others.
"Mr. Magor, acting president, said they had just sus-
tained a great loss in the sudden death of their president,
Ml-. Thomas Cramp. The calamity was so unexpected
that it almost took their breath away, and rendered it
difficult to say all that might well be said. When asked
to accept the office of president, Mr. Cramp's modesty
rather inclined him to shi'ink from the honor, and he
stated to him, the speaker, that he had not taken suffi-
cient interest in the association, or made sufficient oflbrt
to merit such a distinction. One of the projects which
he had in contemplation was the establishment of a
reading room and mercantile association, with the
object of infusing new life and vigor into their body.
390
He was sure every member present deplored the loss
which had been sustained. Among other qualities Mr,
Cramp bore a warmth and goodness of heart, for which,
perhaps, he did not always get sufficient credit. The
following resolutions have been drawn up for the ac-
ceptance of the meeting : —
'That the members of the Montreal Corn Exchange Associa-
tion have heard with the deepest sorrow of the sudden decease
of their president, Thomas Cramp, Esq., who had been associ-
ated with this Association from its organization, and has also
been prominently identified for the past thirty yeai'S with the
mercantile and shipping interests of this port.'
' That the acting-president and committee are hereby de-
sired to convey to the bereaved family the heartfelt sympathy
of this Association.'
' That to mark their respect for the memory of the deceased
the Board do now adjourn till Monday, the 23rd inst., and that
the acting-president, the committee of management, and the
Board of Eeview, with the members of the Association gener-
ally, attend the funeral on Saturday next.'
"The Acting-president formally proposed the foregoing
resolutions, which
"Mr. Edgar Judge seconded in a few well-chosen and
feeling remarks. He endorsed all that had been said by
the chairman, referred to the interest which the de-
ceased had taken in the affairs of the associations, and
to the suddenness of the blow which left them unpre-
pared to adequately express all that was felt upon so
melancholy an occasion.
"Mr. Watt said that upon such an occasion silence was,
perhaps, more fitting and more eloquent than speech.
His intercourse with the deceased had been of Ions:
duration, extending into the forties. He was in thorough
accord with the resolution of sympathy which was be-
fore the meeting, and endorsed all that had been said
regarding the estimable qualities of the deceased.
391
"The resolutions were put to the meeting and unani-
mously adopted,
"The meeting then adjourned.
"Much admiration has been expressed by many of Mr.
Cramp's fiiends for what proved to be his last public
act in life. For a citizen to leave upper St. XJrbain
street on such a night, and go down to the Boys' Home
on Mountain street, was no ordinary act. It is gener-
all}^ believed that the over-exertion thus made in the
interest of these boys was the exciting cause of the
trouble which carried him off."
{Montreal Daily Witness, Feb. 21st, 1885.)
"An Honored Gentleman.
" FUNERAL OBSEQUIES OP THE LATE MR. THOMAS CRAMP.
" Seldom has there ever assembled in Montreal such a
large and representative gathering of citizens, mourning
for the loss of a departed friend and confrere, as that
which gathered this afternoon to pay the last tribute of
respect to the late Mr. Thomas Cramp, whose lamented
death has caused so much sorrow in the community.
The funeral took place from the late residence of the
deceased, No. 70 St. XJrbain street, at two o'clock, and at
that hour the street was thronged, sleighs bringing to
the house Montreal's most prominent citizens, the majo-
rity of whom took occasion to take a last look at the face
of him who in his lifetime had been such a genial com-
panion and true friend. The mournful cortege formed
shortly after two o'clock, and proceedad by way of St,
XJrbain street to St, Martin's Church.
" Among the last number of prominent citizens noticed
in the procession were Messrs. Thomas Workman, Hec-
392
tor Mackenzie, Lieut.-Col. Fletcher, Aid. Donovan, John
Torrance, William Weir, F. W. Henshaw, Henry Lyman,
S. Bethune, Q.C., George Hague, William Angus, Joseph
Hickson, L. J. Sargeant, M. P. Eyan, T, B. Hawson,
Hon. Justice Cross, Hon. Henry Starnes, Eev. J. Edgar
Hill, E. K. Greene, Henry Bulmer, John Molson, Andrew
Robertson, President of the Harbor Commissioners ; John
Kerry, President of the Board of Trade ; John Magor,
Acting-President of the Corn Exchange, of which the
deceased gentleman was only recently elected Presi-
dent ; W. J. Patterson, Secretary of the Boaid of Trade
and Corn Exchange ; Capt. Morrison and Mr. Shaw,
representing the Port Warden's Office; Capt. Howard,
Harbor Master ; Edgar Judge, F. W. Matthews, D. J.
Eees, Lieut.-Col. Crawford, D. A. P. Watt, Mr. J. F. D.
Black, City Treasurer ; H. E. Ives, H. W. Whitney, Sec-
retary of the Harbor Commissioners ; the Eev. Canon
Ellegood, the Hon. Judge Monk, Thomas White, M.P.,
ex-Ald. Hagar, Capt. Shepherd, S. Waddell, John Baird,
J. K. Ward, Guillaume Boivin, ex-Ald. Proctor, W. H,
Munderloh, H. Blaiklock, M. M. Tait, Q.C., Edward
Murphy, Eichard White, J. C. Baker, E. J. Eouth, —
Benson, — St. Onge, Aid. Stroud, — Kinghorn. E. D.
Haig, Josejih Doutre, Q.G., Aid. Laurent, James Stewart,
Dr. Bell, C. E. Hosmer, Charles Drinkwater, Hon. Donald
A. Smith, D. A. Macmaster, Q.C., James Darling, J. C.
Gil man, Aid. McShane, — Mcintosh, William Murray,
Hon. Judge Loranger, J. N. Loranger, Q.C., W. H.
Kerr, Q.C., James Popham, Alexander Gowdey, F. L.
Beique, John Crawford, the Hon. Judge Mathieu, the Hon.
Judge Sicotte,Hollis Shoi-ey, Henry Hogan, Charles Alex-
ander^ Caj)t. Eitchie, William Clendinneng, S. P. Starnes,
United States Consul-General ; L. Armstrong, — Grant, L.
Sutherland, Hugh Patton, W. H. Arnton, the Hon. J. S. C.
Wiirtele, A. B. Chaffee, Louis Lesage, Edward Holton, M.
393
P., John Lewis, William Norris, J. Kennedy, Harbor En-
gineer ; Alexander Walker, J. Eoss, — Forsythe, — Law, J.
M. Dutt; F. N. Boxer,— Peddie, Selkirk Cross, A. W. Had-
rill, — McEwcn, Learmonth, W. M. Eamsay, Hugh Mac-
kay, E. Stewart, J. F. Wulff, Eobert W. Tyre, E. W. Shep-
herd, James Gilmour, Hon. J. E. Thibaudeau, C. A. Geof-
frion, Q.C., and many others. The cortkje was followed by
numerous private sleighs, and the unanimous opinion
was that it was the largest funeral seen in Montreal for
a long time, the gathering showing in what universal
esteem and regard the deceased gentleman was held.
" The pall-bearers were Sir Francis Hincks, Messrs.
A. Allan, A. M. Forbes, J. Torrance, J. Molson, F. W.
Henshaw, F. W. Thomas, and the Hon. H. Starnes.
Immediately after the hearse came the chief mourners,
consisting of the son of the deceased, Mr. Martin B.
Cramp ; his brother, Mr. George B. Cramp ; his nephews,
Messrs. Frank Muir and H. B. Muir ; his brothers-in-law,
Messrs. G. B. Muir, W. Dunn and J. Dunn, and his
nephew, Mr. G. Dunn.
"Previous to the formation of the procession, a private
service for the widow and other relatives of the deceased
was conducted at the house by the Rev. J. S. Stone, B.D.,
pastor of St. Martin's Church.
"St. Martin's Church was filled to overflowing. The
coffin was met at the entrance, amidst solemn silence
(except for the tolling of the funeral bell), by the Eev.
Canon Ellegoode, who preceded the remains, reading the
first portion of the Church of England service for the
burial of the dead ; the organist, Mr. Taylor, at the same
time rendering ' The Dead March in Saul.' The hymn.
'When our heads are bowed with woe,' was then sung,
and the Thirty-ninth Psalm followed, together with the
Ninetieth Psalm (Bonwie, refugium). The Eev. Canon
Mulloch then proceeded to the centre aisle and read, in
26
394
a most solemn voice, the beautiful words of the fifteenth
chaj^ter of the First Epistle to the Corinthians, begin-
ning at verse 20, ' Now hath Christ risen from the dead.'
Hymn 105, ' In the Lord's atoning grief,' was next sung,
and the Eev. J. S. Stone, the rector, read the concluding
portions of the service. Hymn 140, 'Jesus lives,' having
been admirably rendered by the choir, the service closed
with the benediction.
"The funeral cortege again formed, and the mortal
remains were conveyed to the Mount Eoyal Cemetery.
"The deceased lay in a handsome coffin in the room
wherein he died, and appeared very life-like. The coffin
was covered with beautiful floral trophies from sympa-
thising friends — one, a sheaf of corn resting on a floral
sickle, being extremely nice. The largest and most
noticeable tribute was the one from the Boys' Home,
Mountain Street, consisting of a cross and anchor. The
letter sent with this trophy, Mrs Cramp desired our
reporter to state publicly, was, she considered, an
extremely kind one, and nothing could have been sent
more acceptable to herself and family than the letter
and tribute, especiallj^ as her late husband had often
expressed his belief that no institution existed of a more
deserving nature than that of the Boys' Home. Mrs.
Cramp has received very many sympathetic letters from
kind friends, all of whom she also desired to thank.
" Other floral trophies were a beautiful cushion com-
posed of camelias, roses, smilax, etc., from the Liver-
pool, London & Globe Insurance Company ; a magnifi-
cent anchor from the employes of the Portland office of
the Dominion Steamship Company ; a very large and
costly wreath from the members of the Corn P^xchange,
etc.
" The inmates of the Boys' Home sent a beautiful
floral tribute in the shape of an anchor interwoven with
395
beautiful flowers, bearing the inscription, ' Boys' Homo.'
The tribute was arranged by Mr. Bain, florist. The
following letter accompanied it : —
" ' Boys' Home,
" ' Montreal, 19th Feb., 1885.
" ' Dear Lady, — Our hearts have been saddened by the loss
we boj's of the Home have sustained through the death of our
friend, your husband, Mr. Thomas Cramp. Throughout the
past year his interest in the Home has been steadily increasing,
and at our annual meeting he expressed himself so warmly
attached to us, that he would in the future, if spared, advocate
our cause among the commercial community, of which he was
so prominent a member. This providence of our Heavenly
Father has cast a gloom over all our spirits, and we will not
soon forget him, who sacrificed his comfort on that stormy
night, and no doubt aggravated the disease which prematurely
shortened his life.
" 'Dear Mrs. Cramp, please accept this wreath from us boys,
our humble and only way of conveying to you and family our
earnest sympathy. Our prayer is that the Great Friend, our
Heavenly Father, who has been, according to His promise, a
husband to many of our mothers in a similar position, and a
father to us also, who has always gone before and guided our
footsteps until to-day, may be thy husband and father,— and
though to-day the darkness seems impenetrable, rest assured
He will not leave you comfortless, but will send his light and
life into your heart and mind.
" ' We will try and imitate his example in his self-sacrifice, for
the good of others in need, and we are confident this is only our
Lord's way of raising up for us many friends, who will carry on
the work he desired should be done on behalf of the boys.
" 'Yours, in sympathy. One of the Boys,
" ' HoR.\cE Davis.
" ' Mrs. Thomas Cramp.' "
"The boys of the Boys' Home, under Mr. Dick,
attended the funeral in a body."
396
A PASTOE'S NOTICE.
The Sunday following' the funeral, the Eev. J. S. Stone,
vicar of St. Martin's Church, at the close of an eloquent
and earnest sermon on the-text, "Who then can be saved,"
in which he pointed out the self-sacrifice necessary in a
truly Christian life, referred in touching terms to the de-
cease of Mr. Cramp. He said that his loss was terribly
sudden, as only a week ago he was worshipping with them
in that church, and now he was dead and buried. As a
business man, as an active member of philanthropic
movements, as a member of that church which he loved
so well, the deceased gentleman stood high in public esti-
mation. His activity in every good work, and his sym-
pathy with every benevolent movement were well known ;
and the loss caused by his death would be widely and
generally felt. Although Mr. Cramp was very fond of
music and singing, he very rarely joined in ^ he singing,
so far as he himself had observed , and yet he had no-
ticed, he could not tell why, that at the last service which
he attended, the deceased gentleman joined most heartily
in singing the hj^mn, "Just as I am without one plea,"
while his face seemed lit up with joy and happiness.
That was the last time that he saw him in church ; the
last time he saw his face in this world it wore the same
happy and peaceful expression. "And the next time,"
said the preacher, " that I see him— may God have
mercy upon my own soul — I shall see him before the
Throne, singing the song which only the redeemed
know." — G. B. C.
^D