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MEMOIRS 
 
 LIFE OF DAVID MAEKS, 
 
 MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL; 
 
 EDITED BY 
 
 MRS. MARILLA MARKS. 
 
 Say not I am a child, for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I 
 command thee, thou shalt speak." Jer. 1:7. 
 
 DOVER, N.H.: 
 
 PUBLISHED BY THE FREE-WILL BAPTIST PRINTINa ESTAB- 
 LISHMENT. 
 
 WILLIAM BURR, PRINTER. 
 
 1846. 
 
Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by Marilla 
 Marks, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of New Hamp- 
 shire. 
 
 f 
 
^^5^3 
 
 PEEFACE. 
 
 Immediately after the decease of Mr. Marks, many highly es- 
 teemed friends, whose opinions have deservedly great weight in the 
 church, repeatedly expressed the conviction that the cause of 
 Christ demanded the publication of his biography. In deference 
 to their judgment, and in accordance with their earnest request, 
 this work is now submitted to the Christian public. 
 
 In the year 1831, the subject of these Memoirs was persuaded 
 by several friends, who had examined his Journal, to publish a 
 * Narrative' of his labors in the ministry, especially as those labors 
 were intimately connected with the progress of the Free-will Bap- 
 tist denomination in the west. An edition of two thousand copies 
 was issued, which was nearly all sold in New England within nine 
 months after its publication. He was afterwards often solicited by 
 friends at the west to publish another edition for the supply of 
 the western Free-will Baptist churches, but he felt so much delica- 
 cy on the subject, that he could never be induced to listen to their 
 importunities. 
 
 For nearly two years and a half after the publication of his 
 "Narrative," he kept a regular Journal, as in former years. Af- 
 ter this period, on account of the close occupancy of his time with 
 immense labors, he only made occasional entries. His " Narrative," 
 as written by himself, occupies the first twenty-three chapters of 
 the present work in an abridged form. The remainder consists of 
 the occasional entries in his Journal; extracts from his correspon- 
 dence, and from such other documents as could be collected ; and 
 a brief history of his labors during the intervening spaces has been 
 written by the editress from memory. From the nature of the 
 materials, the latter part of the biography does not give so much 
 detail in a connected form, as would be found in a regular Journal ; 
 but the exemplification of his character in its several parts, as well 
 as the mere outline of his labors, being one of the objects designed in 
 this work, it is hoped that the latter part will not be found less inter- 
 
 jvi^?aso7 
 
iv. PREFACE* 
 
 esting or useful than the former. As the subject of these Memoirs 
 was deeply interested in all the various branches of Christian re- 
 form, it has been deemed proper to give, occasionally, brief ex- 
 tracts from articles showing his position on these points. 
 
 It has been with a painful sense of her own inadequacy, that the 
 editress of these Memoirs has prosecuted her labor. Gladly would 
 she have shrunk from the responsible work, had the necessary 
 documents been in such a situation that another could have arrang- 
 ed them. She has also been painfully alive to the delicacy of her 
 situation, contemplated as the biographer of her companion in life* 
 She has, however, aimed to present a portrait of her husband's charac- 
 ter just as it was, in private as well as public life, that his influence on 
 all points might be perpetuated, and the precious cause for which he 
 lived, and toiled, might be thus promoted. In doing this, some things 
 needed to be said, which, at first view, it seemed improper for her to- 
 say. She has felt, too, that she might be censured by some for want of 
 discretion in publishing private expressions of sentiment and feel- 
 ing. Indeed, doubts on these points have not been absent from her 
 own mind. In self-vindication, however, she will state, that she 
 yielded her feelings of delicacy to the judgment and counsel 
 of friends of high standing in the literary and religious world, 
 and has aimed to write with fidelity to the advisory direc- 
 tion of a competent judge, " Present your husband just as he 
 was." 
 
 In accomplishing this work, she would gratefully acknowledge 
 the sustaining grace of God. Notwithstanding the anguish under 
 which her soul was writhing from her recent severe bereavement, 
 and which, from the nature of her work, has been kept before her 
 in all its freshness, she has had consolations that have often render- 
 ed her labor inexpressibly sweet. To the church of the living God, 
 this work is now dedicated, with many prayers, that, through the 
 Divine blessing, it may nerve the hearts of God's people to high 
 and holy resolves, to live and die for the salvation of this lost 
 world. The Editress. 
 
CONTENTS 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Mr. Marks' parentage — Early religious impressions — Burning of his 
 father's house — Removal to Connecticut — Death of his oldest brother 
 — Removal to Junius, N. Y. ------ 13 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 Conversion — Application for membership to a Calvinistic Baptist church — 
 Journey to Providence, R. L, and unsuccessful attempt to pursue a 
 course of study — Baptism and union with the Free-will Baptists. 18 
 
 CHAPTER HI. 
 
 Exercises of mind with regard to preaching on the anniversary of his 
 birth day, Nov. 4, 1820, then fifteen years of age — Attends a 
 few meetings in different towns with a minister — Returns home — 
 Exercises of mind respecting duty — His parents give him his time — La- 
 bors in a revival in Brutus and Camillus — Returns to Junius. - 27 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Leaves home to travel and preach — Labors in several towns on the 
 Holland Purchase — Severe trials — Second burning of his father's 
 house — Labors and success — Bethany quarterly meeting — Death of 
 his mother. -32. 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Returns home — Interview with his family — Attends the organization of 
 the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in Bethany — Labors and opposi- 
 tion in Junius — Study of Giammar — Labors in several towns — Second 
 tour to the Holland Purchase. ------ 48 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 Leaves for N. H. — Preaches in several places — Revivals in Brookfield 
 and Eaton — Continues his journey — Destitution and consequent diffi- 
 culties — Labors in N. H. — Oifer of a support at college and reasons 
 for declining — Union of several churches in the south part of Vernfont 
 with the Free-will Baptists — Returns to N. Y. - - - 54 
 I* 
 
VI, CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER. VII. 
 
 Labors in several towns — Revival in Candor — Interview with the follow- 
 ers of Jemima Wilkinson — Labors — Attends Benton and Erie quarterly 
 meetings — Trials and reflections. 69 
 
 CHAPTER VHL 
 
 Passage on lake Erie to Ohio — Sufferings on a desolate peninsula — 
 Labors in Huron Co. — Funeral of a backslider — Organization of the 
 Huron quarterly meeting — Travels to the South part of Ohio — Diffi- 
 culties in crossing the Ohio river — Meeting in Kentucky — Visits 
 Rutland — Rise of a Free-will Baptist yearly meeting on the Ohio 
 river and the trials that follow — Returns to N. Y. - - - 75 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 Journey to Connecticut — Visits his brother's grave — Rise of a Free-will 
 Baptist church in Middletown — Returns to New York — Tour to Upper 
 Canada — Reflections at Niagara Falls. 87 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Prospect of a revival in Batavia — Second tour to Canada — Labors in 
 revivals in Batavia and Elba — Le Roy — Groveland and Geneseo — 
 Church gathered. 94 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 Publishes an address to the unconverted — Imbibes Unitarian views — 
 Interviews with Lorenzo Dow — ^Revival in Manchester — Labors till 
 eighteen years of age. 109 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Second journey to New Hampshire — Revival at Bradford: — Tour to 
 Rhode Island and Connecticut — Execution of a criminal in Tolland — 
 New Hampshire yearly meeting at Weare — Revival at Sandwich — 
 Labors in the Western part of Maine — Meeting and thunder shower 
 at Effingham, N. H. — Funeral at Bradford — Returns to New York, 
 and travels with Abel Thornton — Labors till Oct. 1824. - 118^ 
 
 CHAPTER Xm. 
 
 Second journey to Ohio — Labors till Jan. 1825 — Teaches a school at 
 York — Another at Salt-rock — Labors while teaching — Revival at 
 Salt-rock and some other towns — Hurricane — Interesting baptismal 
 scene — Severe illness and flery trials — Organization of Marion quar- 
 terly meeting, and Ohio yearly meeting — Departure for New York — 
 Shocking death and funeral — Return home — Spiritual trials. 131 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 Teaches at Junius — Preaches under great depression of spirits — Great 
 enlargement of mind at Benton quarterly meeting, Jan. 1826 — Is 
 ordained — Labors — Severe trials and temptation from Unitarian views 
 — Some of the arguments which changed his views. - - 146 
 
CONTENTS. VU. 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Revival in Ontario — Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Rise of the first 
 Free-vv^ill Baptist church in Upper Canada — Interesting conversion 
 and baptism of a sick person — Labors in different places — Revival at 
 Canandaigua — Excitement occasioned by the Free-masons' kidnapping 
 Capt. Wm. Morgan — Labors in Canandaigua and organization of a 
 church — Travels to the eastern part of the State — Free-communion 
 Baptists — Baptism of six persons at sun-rise on a winter morning — 
 Tour to Pennsylvania, and labors till Aug. 1827 — Yearly meeting at 
 Bethany and discussion of Free-masonry — Northern lights. - 156 
 
 CHAPTER XVL 
 
 First tour to London District, Upper Canada — Revival at London — 
 Commencement of a revival at Southwold. - - - 169 
 
 CHAPTER XVH. 
 
 Revival in Scriba, N. Y. — Church gathered — Happy state of mind in 
 expectation of immediate death — Exercises concerning Christian per- 
 fection — Labors in Holland Purchase and Susquehanna yearly meet- 
 ings — Elder J. Fowler's renunciation of Free-masonry. - 175 
 
 CHAPTER XVm. 
 
 Second tour to London District, Upper Canada — Meetings in the streets 
 in St. Catharines, Hamilton, Ancaster — State of the Free-will Baptist 
 churches in the province — Faithfulness of a Christian wife blessed to 
 the conversion of her dying husband — Labors in Bethany and Benton 
 quarterly meetings — Some disclosures of Free-masonry and facts 
 connected with them — Holland Purchase yearly meeting resolves 
 respecting them. - - - - - - - - 183 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 Mr. Marks' appointment as delegate to the second session of the Free- 
 will Baptist General Conference — Travels with Wm. Van Tuyl — 
 Attends Spafford quarterly meeting — Second session of Susquehanna 
 yearly meeting — Its rise,.&c. — Street meeting in Johnstown, N. Y. — 
 Attends Vermont yearly meeting in Oct. 1828 — Masonic discussion, 
 &c. — General Conference — Labors in Maine, New Hampshire, and 
 Vermont — Returns to New York. - - - - - 195 
 
 CHAPTER XX. 
 
 Revival in Canandaigua — Death of Wm. Van Tuyl — Labors in Benton 
 and Ontario quarterly meetings. 207 
 
 CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 Third journey to London District, Upper Canada — Free-communion 
 Baptists' Annual Conference — Happy death — Result of a conference 
 appointed to labor for a union between the Free-will and Free-com- 
 munion Baptists in Upper Canada — Returns to New York — Revival in 
 Conesus and Sparta — Holland Purchase Yearly meeting in 1829 — 
 Fourth journey to London District — Revival at Oxford— His Marriage — 
 Third General Conference and revival that followed — Baptism of his 
 companion and sketches of her religious experience. - - 214 
 
Viii. CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 Labors from Nov. 1829 to close of the year — Revival in Middlesex — 
 Second session of the Allegany quarterly meeting and particulars of 
 its rise— Bethany quarterly meeting and revival at Penfield — Fourth 
 General Conference — Fifth tour to Upper Canada — Meeting in the 
 asylum for the poor of Ontario county — Interesting particulars of the 
 revival in Penfield — Meetings in Scriba and other towns — " Book of 
 Mormon " — Labors in various places — Horrid murder in Dansville — 
 Attends Allegany, Benton, and Bethany quarterly meetings — Sixth 
 tour to Canada — State of Free-will Baptist churches in the province — 
 Labors in New York — Attends Ontario and Bethany quarterly meet- 
 ings — Holland Purchase yearly meeting, Aug. 1830 — Resolution 
 against Masonry. 233 
 
 CHAPTER XXm. 
 
 Organization of the Norwich quarterly meeting — A^isits in Vermont and 
 Connecticut — General Conference in Rhode Island — Labors in that 
 State — Revival at Greenville — Journey to Maine and return to Rhode 
 Island — Masonic opposition — Labors in different towns — Visits the 
 grave-yard and Jews' Synagogue at Newport — Attends Roman Cath- 
 olic meeting at Boston — Labors in Maine from Jan. to May, 1831 — 
 Journey to Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont — Attends 
 New Durham, Sandwich and Wheelock quarterly meetings — Attends 
 New Hampshire yearly meeting at Lisbon — Remarkable revival that 
 follows — Labors in New Hampshire — Labors in Limerick, Me., and 
 vicinity — Baptism of Samuel Beede, &c. ... - 245 
 
 CHAPTER XXIV. 
 
 State of the Free-will Baptist denomination in 1831 — Plan to aid in 
 removing existing evils — Attends Maine Western yearly meeting — 
 Attends fifth General Conference — Book Concern organized — Mr. 
 Marks appointed its Agent — First labors as Agent — Attends Wolf- 
 boro' quarterly meeting — Masonic opposition — Letter from S. Beede — 
 Meetings in different towns — Tour to Rhode Island — Mr. C. G. Fin- 
 ney — Meetings in Kittery and Great Falls — Masonic opposition— Labors 
 in various towns — Sickness in Holderness, N. H. — Rumor of his 
 death — Travels and labors — Severe sickness in Bath, N. H., Jan. 
 1832 — Partially recovers and resumes his labors — Confinement with a 
 relapse in Randolph, Vt. — Happy state of mind in expectation of 
 death — Partial recovery — Letter from S. Beede — Reply — Preaches in 
 New Hampshire as health permits — Extracts from correspondence — 
 Difficulties attending his labors for the Book Concern — Dyspepsia — 
 Missionary letter from Mr. Sutton, in India — Free-will Baptist For-, 
 eign Mission Society formed — Labors — Records of the first Free-will 
 Baptist church — Letter to S. Beede — Attends New Durham quarterly 
 meeting — Embarrassments and anxieties — Attends Weare quarterly 
 meeting and New Hampshire yearly meeting — Rise of Parsonsfield 
 Seminary — Cholera in America — Attends Penobscot yearly meetmg — 
 Cholera at Montreal — Attends Edgcomb quarterly meeting — Day of 
 fasting on account of the pestilence — Issues first edition of Christian 
 Melody — Attends New Durham quarterly meeting and preaches at 
 
CONTENTS. IX. 
 
 Randall's grave — Letters to Benton quarterly meeting and Holland 
 Purchase yearly meeting — Tour to Vermont and Maine — Attends a 
 ministers' conference in Holderness, N. H. — Letter from S. Beede — 
 Attends Vermont yearly meeting — Sixth General Conference in 1832 — 
 Purchases the Morning Star Establishment. _ . - 268 
 
 CHAPTER XXV. 
 
 Tour to New York and Upper Canada — Labors in New York — Letter 
 on Slavery — Discussion of Campbellism — Returns to New England — 
 Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting — Arrival of Mr. Sutton and 
 affecting address — Revival in New Durham — In New Market — Cor- 
 respondence — Extraordinary Painting — Attends Holland Purchase 
 yearly meeting — Returns to New England — Attends seventh General 
 Conference — Letter to Mr. Pike of England — Removal of the printing 
 office of the Morning Star to Dover, N. H. — Tour to Maine and severe 
 illness at Wilton — Returns to Dover, N. H. — Sickness and death of 
 Mr. Beede — Locates in Portsmouth and takes charge of a small 
 church — Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting — Extracts from an 
 article on missions — Rise of the Free-will Baptist Home Mission 
 Society — Mr. Marks appointed Corresponding Secretary — A^isits 
 Whitfield's tomb — Organization of the Rockingham quarterly meet- 
 ing — Labors in Portsmouth and other towns — Attends a ministers' 
 conference in Readfield, Me. — Sufferings from dyspepsia — Labors in 
 Portsmouth and towns in its vicinity— Attends a protracted meeting in 
 Boston — Anti-Slavery character of the Morning Star — Mr. C. G. Fin- 
 ney's Revival Lectures — Revival in Portsmouth — George Thompson, 
 the Abolitionist — Confession of a man of pleasure — Attends New 
 Hampshire x\nti-Slavery Society — Home Mission Anniversary in 
 Lisbon, N. H. — Mr. Marks' report and illustration of the principle of 
 missionary operations— New Hampshire yearly meeting — Slavery 
 discussion — Ordination of Mr. Eli Noyes as missionary to India — 
 Visits Mt. Washington — Returns to Portsmouth — Trials in conse- 
 quence of temperance principles — Meetings and baptism on the Isle of 
 Shoals — Mr. Phillips appointed missionary to India — His marriage to 
 Mrs. Beede — Mr. Marks' ill health — Visits Boston — Departure of the 
 Missionaries — Attends the eighth General Conference — Resigns his 
 Agency for the Book Concern — New Hampshire Legislature refuses 
 it an act of Incorporation on account of its Anti-Slavery character — 
 Returns to Dover to make a transfer of the Book Concern to a Board 
 of Trustees— Visits Upper Canada— Resolutions for holy living. 306 
 
 CHAPTER XXVI. 
 
 Mr. Marks commences labors in Rochester, N. Y., under the patronage 
 of the Free-will Baptist (N. Y.) Home Mission Society, in Jan. 
 1836 — Letter to Mr. Burr on Slavery — Labors and success — Organizes 
 a church — Purchases a lot for a meeting house — Abner Kneeland — 
 Failure of the crops and consequent inability of the infant Mission 
 Society — Mr. Marks' consequent trials — Attempts to sustain himself 
 rather than desert his field of labor — Unprecedented pressure in the 
 commercial world— Extracts from his correspondence— Murder of Mr. 
 Lyman of Rochester — Trial and execution of the murderer — III 
 
X. CONTENTS. 
 
 health — Leaves Rochester, June 1838 — Attends Holland Purchase 
 yearly meeting — New York Anti-Slavery Convention — Letter to 
 India. ----- 359 
 
 CHAPTER XXVH. 
 
 Eig-hth tour to Upper Canada — Labors as an evangelist in the Holland 
 Purchase yearly meeting — Dreadful death of an infidel — Revival in 
 Warsaw — Pike — Boston, N. Y. — Attendance at quarterly meetings — 
 Illness of his wife — Revival in Rochester under the labors of Mr. 
 Knapp — Attends Genesee quarterly meeting — Holland Purchase year- 
 ly meeting — New York State Temperance Society — Attends the 
 tenth General Conference, 1839 — Interesting discusssion of the Slavery 
 question — Report of the Book Concern — Resolution of Conference on 
 the use of tobacco — Labors through the winter in Ohio, Pennsylvania 
 and New York. 380 
 
 CHAPTER XXVm. 
 
 Attends the anniversaries in N. Y. in 1840 — Visits places of interest — 
 Letter to the World's Anti-Slavery Convention — ^Preaches in the city 
 and urged to labor there — Illness — Leaves for western New York — 
 Refuses to travel on the Sabbnth — Kind reception from the Baptist 
 minister in Syracuse — Preaches once at his request — Evils resulting 
 from the disregard of the Sabbath on the Erie canal — Dreadful death 
 of two canal boys — Labors in western New York till the 18th of 
 June— Attends Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Confined to his 
 bed by a severe attack of bronchitis — Partial recovery , but relinquishes 
 preaching two months — In the mean time visits Canada and writes a 
 treatise on " The Design of the Lord's Supper" — London quarterly 
 meeting — Character of fugitives from American Slavery — Intemper- 
 ance in Canada — Returns to New York — Resumes his labors in Sep- 
 tember — On account of his health locates in Varysburg — Organizes a 
 church in Portageville with which he labors half of the time — Revival 
 in Varysburgh — Alarming sickness — Attends Holland Purchase 
 yearly meeting — Christian Anti-Slavery "Convention in Aubuin — 
 Wyoming county Temperance Convention — Lectures on Political 
 Abolition in Warsaw — Leaves for the General Conference in Maine 
 — Assailed by a robber — Attends Free-communion Baptist Confer- 
 ence in Central New York — Street Temperance meetings — Tem- 
 perance in Portsmouth — Eleventh General Conference — Lectures 
 on Temperance in the street in Brunswick — arrival of Mr. and Mrs. 
 Noyes from India — Returns to New York — Adopted daughter— La- 
 bors in Varysburg and Java till May 1842 — calls to different fields of 
 labor — Decides to accept an Agency in Ohio, in the cause of Chris- 
 tian Education — Tenth and last journey to Upper Canada— Travels 
 and labors for six weeks in western New York. - - 397 
 
 CHAPTER XXIX. 
 
 Lectures on the duty of voters — Meets Western Reserve Education 
 Society in Chester, Ohio, July, 1842 — Society purchases a farm for 
 their Seminary — School opened — Removes his family to Oberlin — 
 Labors for the Education Society till last of Jan. 1843— Studies at 
 
CONTENTS. XI. 
 
 Oberlin and labors— Call from the Trustees of a Literary Institution 
 in Strafford, N. H. — Correspondence — Accepts the call — Labors in 
 New Hampshire for three months — Returns to New York — 111 health 
 — Labors for Western Reserve Education Society — Health fails — 
 Extracts from his correspondence — Health improves — Resumes preach- 
 ing — Attends Lake Erie quarterly meeting and Ohio Northern yearly 
 meeting — Discussion on baptism — Testimony respecting it — Letter 
 from E. Place — Attends the twelfth General Conference in central 
 New York, October 1844 — Extract from his speech on the political 
 duty of a Christian citizen — Report on secret societies — Book concern — 
 Close of Conference — Returns to Ohio — Tempest and dreadful loss of 
 life at Buffalo—Wreck of the Robert Fulton— Arrival at Oberlin. 417 
 
 CHAPTER XXX. 
 
 Health declines — Kindness of Professor Finney — Health improves — 
 Attends Ohio Northern yearly meeting, June, 1845 — Michigan yearly 
 meeting — Letter from D. H. Graham — Relapse — Health again im- 
 proves — 'Letter from India — From E. Place — Attends Lorain quarterly 
 meeting in September — Relapse — Happy state of mind — Brief diary 
 of some of his last remarks — Dictates a Farewell Address to his 
 brethren — Carried at his request to the chapel to address the Students 
 after he was thought to be dying — Death — Post mortem examination — 
 Funeral Sermon — His Farewell Address to Free-will Baptists and the 
 world — His Address to the Oberlin Students — Extracts from letters of 
 condolence — Resolutions of Associations of churches — Poetic Tributes 
 to his memory. --------- 442 
 
 Concluding Remarks, 512 
 
MEMOIRS. 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 My parentage, and other particulars till my father's removal to 
 
 New York, 8^c. 
 
 My ancestors were of Jewish origin. My father, David Marks, 
 2d. was the eldest son of David Marks, 1st. of Burlington, Hart^ 
 ford county, Ct. who was a grandson of Mordecai Marks, a Jew. 
 My mother, Rosanna Merriman, eldest daughter of Chauncey Mer- 
 riman, of Southing-ton, in the same county, w^as married to my fa- 
 ther at the commencement of the year 1800. They were both 
 members of the Calvinistic Baptist church. After residing in Bur- 
 lington for five years following theii* marriage, they removed to 
 the town of Shendaken, Ul^er county, N. Y. In the latter town, 
 I was born Nov. 4, 1805. I was the fourth child. One, a daugh- 
 ter, died before my birth at the age of ten months. At this time 
 my mother remarked, with much confidence, that my life would 
 be short. " For," said she, " I believe God, by his Holy Spirit, 
 has impressed it on my mind, that the child shall live before him, 
 as did Samuel anciently ; and that in early life the Lord will set 
 him for the defence of the gospel, and call him to do a great, but a 
 short work in the earth." When one year had passed, the dropsy 
 in the head, considered by physicians incurable, came near termi- 
 nating my mortal existence. My mother's faith was then shaken 
 in what she had asserted on the day of my birth ; but God bless- 
 ed the use of means, and from the gate of death restored me to 
 health. 
 
 One of the first occurrences printed in my recollection, is family 
 prayer. As early as I was susceptible of instruction and capable 
 of reflection, the ti-uth, that all must die and appear before God, 
 2 
 
14 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 to account for their actions, was solemnly impressed on my mind. 
 At the age of four years, a sense of death and judgment caused 
 awful feelings to pervade my soul ; particularly one day, when I 
 was alone amusing myself with burning the tow of flax ; the dread- 
 ful agony of the wicked in hell, represented in the word of God 
 by burning with unquenchable fire was instantly brought to mind. 
 Looking into the flame, I thought how exceedingly dreadful even 
 one moment would be in this fierce burning ; then turning my 
 eyes toward the heavens I said within myself, how will my soul 
 endure, if yet in sin, at the great judgment day, when God shall 
 appear, and set the world on fire ? Finally, I concluded that I 
 would descend into a well when that period should arrive, and go- 
 ing immediately to my mother, told her my resolution. " Ah, my 
 son," said she, " the water will boil, and the earth will burn." 
 Another expedient was suggested. I thought I would hew out a 
 place of retreat in a rock, and there hide myself, closing the en- 
 trance. On naming this, she rephed, " but the rocks will melt." 
 My sorrows increased ; but on reflection I hoped ere that time 
 should come, life might be ended, and my body buried in the 
 earth ; so, telling my mother, I hoped by this to escape, she 
 said, " My child, your hope is vain ; for the dead will awake 
 and come out of their graves." My last expedient it now appear- 
 ed would fail ; and, retiring to a field, my anguish became great, 
 while reflecting that my parents were Christians but I was a sin- 
 ner ; tears flowed profusely, and putting my hand on my bosom, I 
 cast my eyes toward heaven, and said, " God be merciful to me a 
 sinner." Now existence was a burden ; the burning of the tow 
 i*ecurred to mind, and I earnestly wished that I was something in- 
 animate, even if it were tow, that I flight not feel the vengeance 
 that would fall upon the wicked. Once as my mother laid me 
 down to rest, she said, " soon my son you will exchange the bed 
 for the grave, and your clothes for a winding sheet." Often, after 
 this, when I lay down at night, my bed reminded me of the grave, 
 and the sheets of the grave apparel. About this time, Jeremiah, 
 my eldest brother, then eight yeai-s of age, was converted to God, 
 and publicly professed faith in the Redeemer. Serious thoughts 
 of death and judgment continued to exercise my infant powers. 
 
 Very solemn feelings were excited in my mind at the age of 
 four years and seven months, by seeing our house wrapped in flames. 
 When the fire was discovered, my parents were at the house of 
 worship, two miles distant, having left me at home with my two 
 elder brothers, Jeremiah and Friend. One of my brothers imme- 
 diately ran to tlie meeting, the other to the neighbor's house for 
 assistance. Being much alarmed, I fled, unperceived, with all 
 possible haste to ^e adjacent wood, thinking of nothmg but to es- 
 
DAVID MARKS, 15 
 
 cape the devouring flame. I reached the place of retreat ; but 
 while looking on the trees, the recollection of having seen fire 
 spread rapidly in the forest, filled me with fresh alarm. The 
 leaves were just put forth, and, though green, the expectation that 
 they too would burn, and the fire be communicated to them by the 
 adjacent fences, induced me to resume my flight. In the mean- 
 time, the assembly with my parents had resorted to the flames, 
 and immediately the anxious inquiry was made, " Where is Da- 
 vid ?" He was not to be found. No one had seen him. An aw- 
 ful thought rushed upon their minds — the flames must have con- 
 sumed him ! My mother, recollecting her former impressions con- 
 cerning my future life, in anguish of soul, cried out, " O Lord, thou 
 hast deceived me, and I was deceived ;" and immediately swoon- 
 ing, she fell to the ground. A thought that the child might yet be 
 alive, induced some of the assembly to search for me ; while oth- 
 ers endeavored to extinguish the flames, expecting to discover my 
 bones. In my wandering, a path appeared, and, deeming the op- 
 posite side more safe, as it presented an obstacle to the fire, I quick- 
 ly passed it, and had followed its windings more than a mile, when 
 one of the company discovered the object of their search. " Your 
 father wishes to see you," said he, and taking me np, carried me, 
 till we came within sight of the smoking ruins of my native home. 
 The people were still employed in throwing water ; but, on see- 
 ing us, they desisted, and my father, with feelings more easily im- 
 agined than described, met us, and, clasping me in his arms, said, 
 " My son, my son, are you yet alive ?" kissed me and carried me 
 to my mother. She soon recovered from her swoon. Her faith 
 revived — and rejoicing with great joy, they said, " The dead is 
 alive, the lost is found." 
 
 By this, and other misfortunes, my father lost nearly all his prop- 
 erty, and soon after returned to Connecticut, where he resided in 
 the towns of Bristol and Plymouth more than four years. Dur- 
 ing two years of this time, Jeremiah often led brother Friend and 
 myself to the chamber, barn, or field ; and there talked to us of 
 eternity, taught us to pray and seek after the Lord. TYliile en- 
 joying these opportunities, my heart was tenderly affected, and se- 
 rious impressions deepened. But a painful scene quickly fol- 
 lowed. 
 
 My father journeyed to the western part of New York. Im- 
 mediately after his departure, Jeremiah was severely wounded in 
 the foot with an axe ; and af^er a confinement of several weeks, 
 an attack of the typhus fever brought wearisome days, lonely 
 nights, and caused his flesh to waste away. Six days before his 
 death, I went to live with my uncle Marks in Burlington, to attend 
 school. Jan. 2, 1813, after my return from school, my uncle told 
 
16 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 me that my brother was dead. The day before he sat up several 
 hours, wrote some, and said he thought he should recover ; but in 
 the evening the scene changed. Death had marked him for a 
 victim ; and while the sun of life was sitting, he said to my moth- 
 er, who was alone with him, " I am dying." Immediately she 
 blew a trumpet, to call assistance ; then taking him in her arms, 
 he said, " O that I could see papa once more ; but I never shall in 
 this world." Deacon Ward, a neighbor, came in, having heard 
 the alarm. Being much distressed, Jeremiah said, " My pain of 
 body is very great," and once added he wished that he was dead ; 
 but immediately recalled it, saying, "I am wrong; but if it were the 
 will of God, I should be glad to be out of pain." He made af- 
 fecting remarks concerning his death, and a short time before he 
 expired, said, " O, I fear Friend and David will run a wicked 
 race." After conversing an hour and a half very calmly, he was 
 laid on the bed, and then folding his hands on his bosom, he look- 
 ed steadfastly towards heaven. They had now thought he would 
 never speak again, when he distinctly said, " Lord Jesus, may I be 
 with thee ;" and without a groan or struggle, in one minute and a 
 half, his pulse ceased to beat, and his spirit took flight to that land 
 whence there is no return. Dea. Ward remarked, that he had of- 
 ten been called to attend on death-bed scenes for forty years, but 
 had never witnessed one so much composed as this. Jeremiah 
 was eleven years and six months of age, more than four years old- 
 er than myself. His body was laid in the grave, the top of which 
 was covered till my father should return. His death greatly af- 
 fected me, for I loved him tenderly ; and when his dying words, 
 " I fear they will run a wicked race," recurred, I felt and mourn- 
 ed my loss. No longer could I hear his pious warnings, his af- 
 fectionate counsel, and never again would he instruct me to call on 
 the name of the Lord. About two months after this, my father 
 having returned, his body was taken up, earned into the meeting 
 house, and a sermon delivered. Having heard of instances of bur- 
 ial in cases of fits, and that when taken from the earth such had 
 been revived, my childish heart beat high, when I thought it might 
 be thus with my brother. But as the coffin lid' was raised, all my 
 hope vanished, and my sorrow returned. That face, once bloom- 
 ing in health, was now covered with mould, and those eyes, once 
 innocently beaming with affection, were now sunk in their sock- 
 ets. A deep sense of my own mortality pervaded my soul, and 
 afterward I frequently addressed the throne of gi*ace. But not 
 clearly discerning the things of the kingdom, I often joined in folly 
 with my juvenile companions, by which the Spirit of God was 
 grieved, and my convictions in some measure effaced* 
 
DAVID MARKS. 17 
 
 My mother often made observations upon common occurrences, 
 that caused deep and lasting impressions on my mind. Once when 
 she was killing some fowls, their dying struggles excited my sym- 
 pathy, even to weeping, and I asked why she killed them. " Dear 
 child," said she, " fowls have to die for man, calves have to die for 
 man, sheep have to die for man ; but what is more, Jesus, the Sa- 
 vior of the Avorld, has died for man, and soon we must die." At 
 another time, she said ; " have you ever observed the young sap- 
 ling, how easily you can bend it to the ground ?" I answered 
 " Yes." She continued, " Have you also observed that when 
 grown to be a tree, it will not bow, bat will break first ?" Again 
 I answered " Yes ;" and she said, " Learn instruction. Now in 
 the morning of life, your heart, like the sapling, is tender, and 
 may ea,sily be turned to God ; but when inured to crime and hard- 
 ened*by transgression, like the stubborn oak, it will not bow." 
 
 When I was nine years old, my father removed to the town of 
 Junius, Seneca county. New York. The greater part of the time 
 for more than a year after our removal, neglect of eternal tliingn 
 marked my conduct ; yet, frequently, after joining my associates in 
 play, such condemnation filled my soul, that I would resolve never 
 more to engage in idle sports. And though the Spirit of God did 
 not entirely forsake me, yet my resolutions were often broken, and 
 these scenes of folly and sin against God were repeated. About 
 this time, my brother Friend was converted to God. Serious im- 
 pressions again returned. But the attachment to my childish plays 
 and companions continued ; and during the winter months, we ap- 
 pointed one evening in every week for diversion. For this, con- 
 Hcience sharply reproved me ; but being unwilling to desist entire- 
 ly, I proposed that a part of the time should be spent in leai-ning 
 the orthography of words. My proposal was acceded to, but still 
 conscience was not satisfied, and I further proposed that we should 
 commence our school with prayer. Some of my associates, observ- 
 ing they thought it would be well, requested me to address the- 
 tin-one of gi-ace ; the request was granted, which so affected me, that 
 f could no longer participate in their vanities ; but for a time re- 
 mained a spectator, and then feeling condemned for this, wholly 
 forsook the meetings. Serious impressions again increased, and 
 the fear that there was no mercy for me, that my case was hope- 
 less, at times caused me keen distress. For weeks and months, I 
 visited the place of secret prayer two or three times a day, till dis- 
 couragement and unbelief prevailed on me, for a time, to desist. 
 As with others who live in the wicked one, excuses for procrasti- 
 nation found way to my heart. The hope, that at some future,, un- 
 known time, a revival, or some other event would render seeking 
 the Lord less difficult, mafle me again indifferent. 
 2* 
 
IS MEMOIRS OF 
 
 CHAPTER 11. 
 
 An account of m^ conversion, with some other particulars till my 
 
 connection with the Freewill Baptists. 
 
 In the Autumn of 1816, when I was nearly eleven years old, 
 an alai'ming occurrence loudly called my attention. While riding- 
 alone tlu'ough a wood but a little distance from home, my life was 
 much endangered by a sudden fall from a horse. Instantly the 
 query rushed upon me, as if a voice from heaven had spoken and 
 said, "Had your life here closed, where would your soul have 
 been now ?" Conscience answered, " It .would have been in lielL" 
 I stood astonished and amazed. The recollection of my past life^ 
 of broken promises, and of the many times I had prayed, as 1 
 thought, earnestly, without finding relief, rushed upon me like a 
 flood. The anguish of my soul was great, and tears gushed from 
 my eyes. In vain did I regret my existence ; in vain did I en^■y 
 the reptiles of the earth their state. Having been taught that a 
 part of mankind were elected to salvation and the rest passed by, 
 with great bitterness, the exclamation burst from my bosom, " I 
 am a reprobate ; there is no mercy for me." Now did the sor- 
 rows of death compass me about, and the pains of hell got hold of 
 me. Despair bound my soul with its cruel fetters. Nature itself 
 wore a solemn gloom, and even the trees seemed to mourn, and 
 the heavens to frown. Every ray of hope was gone, and the an- 
 guish of my soul was insupportable. " What shall I do ? what 
 shall I do ?" was my cry ; then a thought rushed into my mind, 
 which in some measure relieved me. " Peradventure God can 
 and will have mercy. Christ died for sinners, why not for me ? 
 If hell must be my portion, and I must finally perish, I will per- 
 ish pleading for mercy." But now, the fat« of former promises 
 occurred to my mind ; for in the hour of temptation my feelings 
 had changed, and my strongest resolutions had failed. What secu- 
 rity had I, that this resolution should not, in like manner tail ? f 
 felt jealous of my own heart ; and this seemed an awful moment, 
 on which my eternal destiny was poised. It appeared to me that 
 heaven or hell, depended on the keeping, or not keeping of this 
 resolution. And I felt unwilling to leave myself the least liberty 
 for its violation, lest this dread liberty should be used to my eter- 
 nal ruin. So falling upon my knees, and I'aising my hand towards 
 heaven, I made oath unto God, saying, " As long as thou shah 
 give me life and ability, lihe Daniel, I will kneel and pray to thee 
 thrice in a day, even though my years shoidd he lengthened to three- 
 score and ten, and hell he my doom at la^tJ" I arose ; my tears 
 
DAVID MARKS. 19 
 
 ceased ; distress and anxiety were fled ; and though the darkneSvS 
 of night veiled the earth, yet nature assumed a new aspect. All 
 that met my sight, praised God, and my lieart was constrained to 
 join the theme. Setting out for home, a sudden rustling among the 
 trees reminded me that those forests were inhabited by beasts of 
 prey ; but it excited no timidity as usual, neither did it cause me 
 t^ make haste ; and now, for the first time, I was willing to die. 
 Something whispered, " How is this ? you are not a Christian." 
 " True," was my reply, " but the Judge of all the earth will do 
 right." Such a sense of his justice and goodness filled my soul, 
 that with sweet composure, I felt to commit my all to Him, and 
 thus was quiet from fear of evil. 
 
 Now to fulfill my oath required no effort, for it seemed tliat my 
 eternal destiny depended upon it.s performance. My constant 
 j)rayer was, that my soul might be born of the Spirit ; but reflec- 
 tions on my past life, the just and holy nature of God, who cannot 
 look on sin with the least allowance, no longer caused my heart to 
 feel condemnation for sin, or to dread his vengeance. I read the 
 threatening^ of God's word — they moved me not. I brought to 
 view tlie pains of hell — my soul rejoiced and was happy. This 
 seemed to me very wrong, and thought I, Christians may rejoice, 
 but not sinners. I was now distressed with fears that a state of 
 insensibility was taking possession of my heart ; for I labored to 
 feel again my former load of guilt, and constantly prayed that con- 
 viction might return, but in vain. Heaven seemed deaf to my 
 entreaties ; and while thus praying, my lieart seemed so hard, that 
 dreadful fears seized me, lest conviction had ceased forever ; yet so 
 sacred appeared my oath, that not the least temptation to violate it 
 troubled my thoughts. Once when bowed before the Lord in se- 
 cret, all recollections except of the solemn vow, fled from my mem- 
 ory ; and not an idea or a word occurring to mind, the fearful ex- 
 pectation was excited, that I should be compelled to rise without 
 offering a single petition to Heaven. But finally the words of the 
 publican, " G^d l)e merciful to me a sinner," came to my recollec- 
 tion, and were as soon repeated. Then I arose and returned, 
 weeping, because of the hardness of my heart. Again, while 
 praying, I used every effort to picture to my view the horrors of 
 the burning world, and bring to my soul a feeling sense of the ag- 
 onizing pains of the damned ; but instead of this, my soul was 
 filled with joy, and the exclamation, " Glory to God !" burst from 
 my lips. Then, for the first time, the thought was suggested, that 
 jx)ssibly God had already forgiven all. 
 
 Though my opportunity at school had been small, I had fortu- 
 nately succeeded in learning to read a little, yet not witliout spell- 
 ing many of the words. My anxiety to become acquainted with 
 
20 MEMOIRS Of* 
 
 the Scriptures, was very gi-eat. Yet, as my parents were poor 
 and in a new country, we had to endure many privations. Gen- 
 erally, labor occupied all my time during the day, and it being dif- 
 ficult for us to obtain candles, I resorted to the expedient of climb- 
 ing trees to procure the bark of the hickoiy, which burns with 
 much flame ; and by the light of this fire, I commenced reading 
 the Bible, with anxious interest and a prayerful heart, frequently 
 continuing my studies two or three hours after the family had re- 
 tired to rest. As my acquaintance with the experience and evi- 
 dences of the Christian increased, the conviction gradually settled 
 in my mind, after an examination of my own heart, that one poor 
 and im worthy as myself, might claim the rich and precious prom- 
 ises of the gospel. Then again doubts and fears pained me, lest 1 
 should build upon a false hope, and finally perish. My prayer to 
 God was, " If I have received remission of sins, grant unto me an 
 evidence of the same, and forbid that I should trust in anything 
 short of that eflfectual change, which alone can prepare the soul 
 for the pure joys of the heavenly world." My mind continued 
 thus exercised in supplication, until, though slow of heart to believe. 
 a partial witness of having experienced regeneration, gladdened my 
 heart, and caused me to exclaim, with the angels, " Over Judah's 
 hallowed plain," " Glory to God in the highest ; on earth peace, 
 and good will toward men." 
 
 The period from my consecrating myself to God by oath till 
 this time, was eighteen months. Soon after, in a conference meet- 
 ing of the Calvinistic Baptists, I arose for the first time, repeated 
 a hymn that rested with some weight on my mind, and then sat 
 down. Some were surprised, for as yet nothing had escaped my 
 lips, respecting my state of mind. The deacon asked me if I had 
 experienced a change of heart. I was embarrassed, fearing to say 
 that I had, or had not ; but after a short pause, I answered, " I 
 do not know." He then remarked, that he liad observed many in 
 childhood commence apparently a religious course ; but that it 
 had given him little satisfaction, as they had generally turned to the 
 world in a short time, and when arrived at manhood, they had be- 
 come the worst of men. His words sunk deep into my heart, and. 
 with my own trials and fears, shook my confidence. Doubts, like 
 a flood, rushed again upon me ; for I thought, were I a Christian, 
 surely they would take me by the hand and gently lead me in the 
 way. But, being unwilling to give up heaven, I continued more 
 fervent in prayer, constantly asking of the Lord wisdom, patience 
 and humility, l)eseeching him to keep me from deception and false 
 hopes. Heaven lent a gracious ear, and instead of sinking under 
 trials, my faith was increased, and my hope so confirmed, that not 
 a doubt remained. And T thought frequently, though the world 
 
DAVID MARKS. 21 
 
 should dispute, I could but believe Heaven had bestowed the 
 " pearl of great price." Wlien a few weeks had passed, I arose 
 in a meeting, after hearing the sermon, and confessed the grace of 
 God, declaring my conviction, that by the same, my soul had been 
 " redeemed from among men." Returning home, great peace glad- 
 dened my heart. My faith became more settled, and, at times, my 
 joy seemed to be full. I had always supposed that a change of 
 heart was accompanied with some outward wonder ; that the Sa- 
 vior or an angel would appear in the heavens ; or some sudden 
 shock, as of electricity, would for an instant cause pain of body. 
 And when Jesus, in a still small voice, removed my guilt and filled 
 my soul with peace and joy, experience was so opposite to my ex- 
 pectation, that it often seemed impossible, that it could be a saving 
 change, which thus caused me to rejoice and love the humble 
 saints. 
 
 One rule given in the word of God, whereby we may know 
 that we have passed from death unto life, is, love to the brethren. 
 This witness is plain ; and when we have certain evidence that 
 our attachment to the saints is peculiar to their Christian character, 
 and proportionate to the degree of hohness they possess, then we 
 may be sure that we have been accepted of the Lord. The Chris- 
 tian need not remain in doubts, darkness and tempests, but may 
 come to the faith of assurance ; not by waiting for God to work 
 miracles for his confirmation, but by searching the Scripture evi- 
 dences, proving his own heart, and constantly bearing the cross. 
 When Naaman, the Syrian, came to the prophet of Israel, he sup- 
 posed that some great thing would be wrought visibly, to effect a 
 cure of his leprosy. Thus, many have expected that regeneration 
 should effect some change in nature, or that some visible wonder, 
 rather than submission of heart and reconciliation to God, should 
 give them evidence of salvation. And when a silent voice 
 has removed their burden, and composure of soul, with love to 
 God and his people, has succeeded, they have passed the time of 
 their conversion without a witness of it ; and though unable to fmd 
 their former convictions and condemnation, they have neglected to 
 take the cross or embrace the promises, and thus for years have 
 walked in darkness, not knowing whither they went. Would such 
 diligently search the Scriptures, examine their hearts and try their 
 spirit, they would learn the nature and evidence of a saving change, 
 and thereby know, as well as Paul, " If their earthly house of this tab- 
 ernacle were, dissolved, they have a building of God, a house not 
 made with hands, eternal in the heavens ;" and instead of continu- 
 ing babes in knowledge, they would grow to the stature of men and 
 women in Christ Jesus. 
 
22 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 No revival marked the period of my conversion and public pro- 
 fession of the same. Professors were greatly at ease in Zion, and 
 scorn, contempt, and derision were heaped upon me. However, 
 it affected me little, for the applause and glory of the world ap- 
 j^eared as vanity of vanities ; " All flesh seemed as grass and the 
 flower of griiss ;" but the approbation of God, as a treasure 
 that endureth forever. Though opposition and persecution from 
 nearly all were combined to discourage me, yet the Lord gave 
 grace and strength equal to my day, and enabled me in all places, 
 as opportunity presented, to bear the cross and testify to the truth. 
 In the public assembly, even when there was no liberty given, feel- 
 ing the Lord required it, I was frequent in my testimonies. For 
 this, many thought me forward, but in no other way could I have 
 a conscience void of offence toward God and man. 
 
 In the fall of the year 1818, upon relating my experience to 
 the Calvinistic Baptist church in Junius, they received me as a 
 candidate for baptism ; but as it was then evening, rainy, and the 
 water two miles distant, through woods, they deferred its perform- 
 ance till the next covenant meeting. At the appointed time, I at- 
 tended with a change of raiment ; but here unexpected trials came 
 upon me. The minister being unable to attend, in consequence of 
 illness, a licensed preacher of Junius church, spoke to the people. 
 I was not only disappointed, in not being baptized, but not a mem- 
 ber of tlie church spoke a word of comfort to me, or even asked 
 of my welfare. Had I not been a child, weak and inexperienced, 
 perhaps this coldness would not have been noticed : but it touched 
 a tender cord. I returned home much depressed in spirit, feeling 
 as though I had no one to encourage or lead me in the way of du- 
 ty. But the Lord was my helper, and God was my refuge ; his 
 arm upheld me, and he turned my sorrow into rejoicing. After 
 this, I continued to attend their covenant meetings, in which they 
 practised speaking to each member of the church, but gave no lib- 
 erty to others. Believing the command to be baptized still obli- 
 gatory, and feeling anxious to walk in the path of obedience, twice, 
 at different periods, I spoke without liberty, at the close of the 
 meeting, and renewed my request for baptism ; but received no 
 direct answer. None of the members pretended even to speak to 
 me, and the same coldness was constantly manifested on all occa- 
 sions. The cause I knew not ; but it finally worked for my good, 
 as it taught me, that in the Rock of ages alone should be my trust 
 and my strength. 
 
 My parents, believing the ministry would be the great work of 
 my life, and that a collegiate course of study was a necessary 
 preparation, concluded to place me in a free school, as they them- 
 selves were unable to defray the consequent expense. Having 
 
DAVID MARKS. 23 
 
 heard that in Providence, R. I., provisions were made for educate 
 ing the indigent, I left home alone at the age of thirteen, in com- 
 pliance with the wishes of my parents, to travel on foot, among 
 strangers, the distance of 368 miles, expecting to be absent five or 
 six years. My Heavenly Father provided me friends. Strangers, 
 when they learned the object of my journey, were very kind, of- 
 ten bestowing a little money to defray my expenses : sometimes 
 they would weep, and frequently express much surprise upon see- 
 ing a child alone, so far from home. At times, while thinking of 
 my friends beneath the parental roof, lonely and sohtary feelings 
 weighed down my spirit ; yet the Lord of Hosts was my com- 
 forter. He dispersed the gloom, by pouring heavenly consolation 
 into my bosom. Frequent opportunities of riding relieved, in a 
 great measure, the tediousness of the journey. In twelve days, 
 I reached Providence, and was kindly received by Mr. Messei'S, 
 President of Brown University, to whom I delivered a letter from 
 my parents. After a stay of two days, he informed me that tui- 
 tion would be free, but no provision was made for board and cloth- 
 ing ; and advised me to go to an Institution in Mass. where he 
 thought a reception would be afforded, agreeably to my wishes.* 
 He offered me a letter of introduction to the Directors of that 
 Institution, but the fear that admission would not be granted, and 
 an expectation, that equal privileges might be enjoyed nearer 
 home, in Hamilton, N. York, where a free school was soon to be 
 established, induced me to return homeward. My heart was not 
 free from trial and temptation. While traveling one evening near 
 Albany, I came to a toll bridge, and all around being silent, the 
 following suggestions were presented. " You are now a child, in 
 a land of strangers, without sufficient money to bear your expen- 
 ses to your parents ; you can climb this gate, pass over the bridge, 
 without harming it, and thus save a little, that will do you good, 
 without injury to any one." With these views, I passed over the 
 gate, when feelings of guilt and condemnation so burdened me, 
 that I turned aside to a retired place, and there laid my case be- 
 fore the Lord, beseeching him to lead me in the path of duty, and 
 keep me from sinning against him. Feeling an impression to re- 
 turn, and like an honest child, pay for crossing the bridge, I sin- 
 cerely wished myself the other side of the gate. Thinking the 
 deed must be undone, and not wishing it to be known, I conclud- 
 ed to climb the gate, and then request to have it opened for my 
 passage ; but while in the act of getting over, a woman heard me, 
 and coming to the door, much to my alarm, exclaimed; "What! 
 
 * I was afterwards informed that some of the students much regretted they had not 
 known my case ; and that they said had they known it, they would have sustained me 
 through a course of study. 
 
24 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 are you climbing the gate ?" Trembling, I related to her my situ- 
 ation, the struggle of my mind with regard to duty, and my wish 
 to pay the toll. Laughing heartily, she replied, " Ah, dear child, 
 you may go free, I will receive nothing, and may blessings follow 
 you." She then opened the gate, when, with a light heart and an 
 approving conscience, I continued my journey, and reached home, 
 after an absence of twenty-five days. 
 
 Passages were so frequently given me in stages and in other car- 
 riages, that not more than one third of this journey was perform- 
 ed on foot. And with few exceptions, those persons with whom 
 I tarried and received of their liberality, would accept any recom- 
 pense ; but generally conversed familiarly with me, and asked me to 
 pray with them. In compliance with their invitations, my soul was 
 often greatly blessed. After my return, the information that none 
 could be freely educated in Hamilton without bail, that should be 
 accountable for the expense, in case they should ever preach any 
 other doctrine than that believed by the C. Baptists, induced me to 
 relinquish the idea of pursuing a course of literary study? 
 
 I continued to attend the Baptist covenant meetings, and was 
 treated with the same studied coldness as before. Six months had 
 passed, since the church received me as a candidate for baptism, 
 and still all was silence on the subject. As yet, the vote of fel- 
 lowship had neither been recalled nor disannulled. A sense of the 
 solemn duty lay so heavily on my mind, that I again renewed the 
 request, in case they still believed me a fit subject ; and if not, 1 
 desired them to let me know it. They now discussed the subject, 
 and obsei'ved, that when I was received, a part of the church on- 
 ly was present, consequently, the absent members were unacquaint- 
 ed with my experience ; and added, that some of those, who did 
 receive me, on consideration had changed their minds. Being re- 
 quested, I again related my experience, and my present exercises. 
 They wished to know my sentiments, concerning particular and 
 unconditional election, and communion, as believed and practiced 
 by them. I told them it was a doubt in my mind, whether those 
 views were agreeable to the Scriptures. The whole church, with 
 one exception, voted they were not satisfied with my experience, 
 and could not receive me. Trials now pressed heavily upon me, 
 and I felt like a lone and friendless child. Something whispered, 
 " What folly to think you are a Christian, when men of piety and 
 experience disown you. You are but a child, and do you know 
 more than the whole church ?" My temptations were very great. 
 But to the Lord only could I go ; and had he not granted succor, 
 by especially manifesting himself, despondence w^ould have discour- 
 aged me, and that, perhaps, forever. My oath was sacred ; and 
 its performance diligently attended. The grace of God was suflS- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 25 
 
 dent for me, and if ever the consolation of his Spirit gladdened 
 my heart, it did in those days. My peace became like a river, and 
 wintry trials gave place to the cheering joys of spring and sum- 
 mer. I attended meetings with different denominations, particu- 
 larly the Methodist, and often had happy seasons, feeling my spir- 
 itual strength renewed. But their sentiments not being in every 
 particular congenial with my own, I could not find that my home 
 was with them. 
 
 In the month of July, 1819, Elder Zebulon Dean, and his com- 
 panion, having heard of my situation, and feeling interested, sent 
 an appointment to our neighborhood, and came thirty miles, accom- 
 panied by brother Samuel Wire, then an unordained preacher, and 
 two other brethren. They were Freewill Baptists, and the first of 
 whom I had any knowledge. On Saturday, July 10th, I met with 
 them and learned their sentiments and spirit, w^hich so well accord- 
 ed with my own views and feelings, that desiring to be baptized, 
 I related to them my experience and sentiments, also the manner 
 in which my application to unite with the Baptist church had been 
 received and afterwards rejected. They expressed satisfaction 
 with my experience, approved of my sentiments, and the next day, 
 being the Sabbath, a meeting was appointed for preaching and ex- 
 amination, at the house where the Baptist church usually met for 
 worship. They having been invited to attend, were generally 
 present, with a large concourse of people. After sermon, being 
 requested, I stood upon a bench, and again related the dealings of 
 the Lord with me. Elder Dean requested the church to state the 
 reason why they did not receive me. After a space of silence, 
 one of the members answered, that it had been understood the 
 child w^as disobedient to liis parents. This report to me was new ; 
 but on being traced to its source in presence of the q^sembly, it 
 was manifest, that it had originated m misunderstanding ; and as 
 it was contradicted by my parents and others, Elder Dean still 
 called, not only on the church, but on the whole assembly, to show 
 if they knew any reason that should debar me from the privileges 
 of the house of God, and if not, charged them forever to hold 
 their peace. Nothing more being said, the assembly resorted to 
 the water. To me, this was a long desired and pleasant hour. 
 When led into the stream, feeling impressed to address the people, 
 I turned and declared to them my weariness of transgression, and 
 my determination, through grace, forever to forsake all sin, the 
 way of the wicked, and to travel the narrow way to the city of 
 God. After earnestly soliciting those of my age and all sinners 
 to begin with me to seek a better world, I assured them if they 
 would not, I must leave them forever ; and called heaven and earth, 
 the assembly, and even the water in which I stood, to record my 
 3 
 
26 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 separation from the world, and to witness against me in the judg- 
 ment day, if I should ever forsake the Lord ; then, having been 
 laid in the baptismal grave and raised again, I went on my way 
 rejoicing. 
 
 On the 17tli of the same month, I attended the Benton Quarter- 
 ly Meeting of the Freewill Baptists, in the town of Phelps, eigh- 
 teen miles from my father's, and was there received a member of 
 the church in that place. Five were baptized, and a profitable 
 season was enjoyed. After this. Elder Dean and brother Wire 
 frequently preached in Junius. A revival followed their labors, in 
 which some of my former persecutors were converted to the faith 
 of the gospel. In the ensuing autumn, brother Wire was ordain- 
 ed. He and Elder Dean baptized fifteen in Junius, who united 
 with the church in Phelps ; but in January following, they w^ere 
 dismissed and acknowledged a church in Junius, taking the Scrip- 
 tures for their only rule of faith and practice. Being absent at 
 the time of its organization, I did not become one of its members 
 till the ensuing spring. This church walked in gospel order sever- 
 al months, and enjoyed many happy seasons. But the summer of 
 prosperity passed, and the winter of adversity succeeded. New 
 and unexpected trials brought heaviness and mourning. Seven or 
 eight, who first united and were well engaged, soon turned aside 
 after satan and walked no more with us. Iniquity abounding, the 
 love of some waxed cold. Every feeling of my soul was pained, 
 when those with whom I had taken sweet counsel, thus wounded 
 the innocent cause of Jesus and brought it into reproach. But 
 while our number decreased by excommunications, the Lord more 
 than supplied the vacancies by adding to the church of such as 
 should be saved. Determined, by the help of God, to walk in the 
 truth and keep all the commandments, I embraced every opportu- 
 nity of attending meetings of worship ; when generally my spirit 
 was pressed within me to warn the wicked of the necessity of a 
 preparation to meet God ; and I seldom remained silent, as this 
 brought condemnation to my soul. 
 
DAVID MARK,3. 27 
 
 CHAPTER HI. 
 
 Call to the ministry, and the particidars of my exercises and gospel 
 labors for three months. 
 
 Nov. 4, 1820, completed my fifteenth year. On this day, going 
 alone into a wood on a high hill, while the rain was descending, I 
 fell npon the ground, and formally dedicated myself anew to God, 
 promising faithfulness and full submission to his will. In this ded- 
 ication, casting my eyes upon the surrounding country, I had a view 
 of the gospel harvest, and felt the first serious impression, that du- 
 ty would call me to labor therein. 
 
 On Jan. 1, 1821, having been solicited by Elder Dean, I left 
 home and went to Benton and Milo, where a revival was pro- 
 gressing, and there attended several meetings with the Elder, 
 generally giving an exhortation after sermon. Thus three weeks 
 quickly passed, when my parents, meeting me at the Ben- 
 ton Quarterly Meeting, in Phelps, desired my immediate re- 
 turn. Elders Dean and Fowler, after some entreaty, obtained their 
 leave for my attendance at an extra Quarterly Meeting in Ontario. 
 My parents gave me liberty to accompany Elder Dean to several 
 other places also, provided I should first return with them. Ac- 
 cordingly I returned home, and after a stay of two days, I left on 
 Wednesday for Ontario, forty miles distant. A deep snow' had 
 fallen, which was much drifted, and the weather was extremely 
 cold, insomuch that few ventured from their firesides. After wacl- 
 ing through the snow thirteen miles, and suffering considerably, I 
 found my toes were frozen, and consequently proceeded no farther 
 till the next day.* Arriving at Ontario, I was glad to meet Eld- 
 ers Dean and Fowler. At this meeting some refreshing was en- 
 joyed, and it pleased the Lord to give me freedom Avhile speaking 
 in his name. After its close, Elder Dean took me with him to 
 Benton, Milo, and Poultney. In the latter place, the power of 
 God was manifest in our meeting. One cried aloud for mercy, 
 and soon -after professed to find pardon. Others were seriously 
 affected, but suffered the enemy to catch away the seed that was 
 so^vn in their hearts. 
 
 Returning to Benton, I attended a few meetings. During this 
 period, one day when the rain and snow were descending on 
 the earth, while at the house of Elder Dean, I felt the first direct 
 impulse as if from Heaven, " Go thou and preach the gospel^ 
 Every surrounding object now assumed a mournful aspect ; and 
 
 * Afterwards, I heard of nine persons, who, ou thia day, were frozen to death at dif- 
 fereut places in this section. 
 
28 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 retiring immediately to a wood on the shore of Seneca lake, half a 
 mile from any house, I cast myself upon the beach, where the rest- 
 less waves uttered a hoarse murmur on one side, and the bleak 
 winds rustled in the forest on the other. Raising a tearful eye to 
 Heaven, I exclaimed, " O my God, is this truly from thee ? and 
 must I, an ignorant child, go and preach thy gospel?" After 
 w^eeping awhile upon the ground, I arose and queried thus with 
 myself; " Can it be, that God will pass by the learned, the wise, 
 the experienced, antl choose a child of fifteen years to preach the 
 gospel ?" When about to answer in the negative, I cast my eyes 
 eastward as I arose, and in an instant, by impression, saw myself 
 a friendless child, running to and fro in the earth to M^arn the 
 wicked of their danger. From these unpressions, I began to gath- 
 er that God would put me into his vineyard, and that the time 
 was at hand. A view of leaving parental care, the society of 
 home, of wandering in a land of strangers, while yet but a child, 
 of facing the bleak storms, and enduring the fatigues of journey- 
 ing oft, and of the trials and persecutions that awaited me, now 
 rushed upon my soul, overpowered my feelings, and constrained 
 me to weep aloud. After this burst of grief had a little abated, I 
 said, " Lord, I am a child, how can I preach ?" and walking over 
 the water on a fallen tree, I gazed therein, and thought, how 
 pleasant would be a watery tomb, if it might hide me from a life 
 of exile. A sweet voice wliispered, " My grace is sufficient for 
 thee. ' Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings, I have perfect- 
 ed praise." Duty was made plain ; I consented to walk in the 
 path of obedience, and peace of soul ensued. 
 
 On my return to Junius, finding my parents unwilling to give 
 me permission to leave them again, I related to them my exer- 
 cise of mind, and impression of the duty God required of me ; and 
 added, if they thought it would be right to keep me at home, the}' 
 would be accountable, and my conscience would be clear in the 
 sight of Heaven. They thought they should be justifiable in thus 
 doing, and told me my labor was so much needed, they could not 
 spare me. I returned to my former avocations, but nature seem- 
 ed clothed vni\i solemnity ; the concerns of earth seemed of little 
 moment ; the hapless children of men, sinking to wo by unbelief, 
 w^ere constantly presented to my view. Day and night I wej^t and 
 mourned for them at mercy's altar. Sleep often fled my pillo^v, 
 ■while it was bedewed with tears. 
 
 One evening, after retiring to rest, a sense of the state of the 
 wicked rolled upon my mind ; and a little after midnight, I retired 
 to the lonely forest, and there prostrated myself on the snow. Du- 
 ty called me to go out into the world, and warn my fellow crea- 
 tures to flee from the wrath to come ; to proclaim the glad tidings 
 
DAVID MARKS. 29 
 
 of salvation, "the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of ven- 
 geance of our Grod." Again, a view of the storms of opposition 
 and persecution that awaited me, was suddenly presented, together 
 with the painful scene of leaving the tender care of those dear 
 parents, who from the days of infancy had guided the steps of my 
 childhood, and checked its waywardness. My beloved brothers 
 and dear sister clung to my affections. I recollected my scanty 
 education, having enjoyed the advantages of a school only ten 
 months ; and had to reflect on my situation, destitute even of con- 
 venient raiment. I thought, surely naen will despise my youth 
 as well as my counsel, and the truth will be disgraced. Yet the 
 path in which God was calling me to walk, was made plain ; and 
 in obedience alone was peace. Clay had been used to open the 
 eyes of the blind, and the power of God was still the same. Re- 
 signing myself to his vdW, my heart was encouraged, and I desired 
 the Lord to open the way, that my whole time might be devoted 
 to warn the unconverted, and point them to the Lamb of God : 
 and I believed that I should bear patiently their abuse, contempt,, 
 and reproach. These exercises of mind continued and increased^ 
 while sorrow was depicted on my countenance. In my sleeping 
 and waking moments, I felt that the blood of souls would be re- 
 quired at my hand, and that ' wo' would be mine, if I preached 
 not the gospel. 
 
 One day while cutting trees in the wood, I became almost lost to 
 all sense of my labor, and frequently sat down, and wept for the 
 miseries that awaited the ungodly. My father, observing this,, 
 called me to the house. Endeavoring to conceal my grief, I obey- 
 ed his call without any suspicion of his motive. Giving me a 
 chair, he asked me to sit down. This unusual manner excited my 
 surprise ; I observed both Ms countenance and my 'mother''s were 
 sad, and they appeared to have been weeping. With an agitated 
 voice, my father said tenderly, " My son, why have you been weep- 
 ing?" Till now, I had not thought my grief had been discover- 
 ed ; but after a pause, I answered : " The Lord is calling me to 
 warn poor perishing sinnei*s of their danger, but I cannot go, for 
 my parents are unwilling." They burst into tears, and my father 
 said, " My son, you may go. For some time we have felt we 
 were like Pharaoh, who would not let the children of Israel go to- 
 worship God in the wilderness. We give you your time, and will 
 no longer detain you." My feelings were overpowered. Our 
 tears mingled together, and I thanked God. 
 
 At this time a gi-eat revival was progressing in Brutus and Ca- 
 
 millus, twenty miles from Junius. Feeling anxious to see this work, 
 
 and labor in it according to my ability, I left home, walked fifteen 
 
 miles to Brutus, and spent the night among strangers, who were 
 
 3* 
 
30 MEMOIRS or 
 
 kind. The next day, understanding Elder E. Shaw would preaeh 
 and baptize about four miles from the place of my lodging, I went 
 to his meeting. I knew no difference among Christians, still I 
 closely watched all that passed, felt much interested, and thought 
 the countenances of the people showed who among them were the 
 followers of the Lamb. After preaching, several spoke of the 
 things God had done for them, and it seemed that I was in my fa- 
 ther's family. Standing upon a bench in order to see the assem- 
 bly, I exhorted them a few moments, and remarked, that as the 
 antediluvians were disobedient, while the ark was preparing, and 
 the flood destroyed them ; so if they in this revival, and in this 
 life, were indifferent, the Lord would send a storai of fire, and de- 
 stroy them in like manner. I enjoyed much freedom, and it pleas- 
 ed the Lord to touch the assembly. After meeting, many spoke 
 with me, invited me to their houses, and to attend different meet- 
 ings, so that I no more felt as a stranger or wanted an open door. 
 At the conclusion. Elder Shaw baptized eleven, who came out of 
 the stream, apparently very happy, and some of them shouted for 
 joy. The evening was spent in a prayer meeting that continued 
 nearly all night, in which three professed to be converted. 
 
 Several days following were spent in Brutus, attending prayer, 
 conference, and preaching meetings, and visiting families. I em- 
 braced every opportunity of testifying to all, small and great, rich 
 and poor, both publicly and from house to house, repentance to- 
 ward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Some were awak- 
 ened, and professed to obtain reconciliation with God. In one of 
 my visits at a public house, I desired to pray with the family, but 
 was denied ; then I requested the privilege of praying in the bar- 
 room, where the traveller is allowed to swear without asking leave, 
 but this also was denied. Reflecting that the street was free, and ob- 
 serving there would be liberty there, I went out and kneeled down 
 before the house, and besought the Lord to have mercy on this 
 family. Li the meantime, I was afterward informed, the landlord 
 took a horse-whip, and came out to drive me away from prayer, 
 and' whip me from the place ; but meeting a young man of the 
 Presbyterian church at his door, who had just commenced preach- 
 ing, he seized him by the collar, and said, " You rascal, why lia^e 
 you sent that boy here to pray ?" The young man replied, " I 
 have not : God sent him." Before the dispute ended, I was visit- 
 ing other families. Still the revival passed, and this family took 
 not warning to forsake their sins, neither shared they in the work. 
 
 In that part of Brutus called Jericho, a certain young man, while 
 I was exhorting him to repentance, swore Yevj wickedly, for which 
 T told him, he must give account to God. He raised his axe, and 
 bid me, " Be gone," swearing if I said any more, he would throw 
 
1>AVID MAllKS. 31 
 
 it at my head. Turning to go away, I replied, " Remember for 
 all these things, God will bring thee into judgment." He appear- 
 ed angry, and casting down his axe, took up a stick of wood with 
 both hands, and threw at me. I was then about a rod from him, 
 and immediately stopped in order to suffer patiently the effects of 
 his wrath, hoping that conviction might fasten on his heart. The 
 stick passed just over my head ; he threw a second, that passed be- 
 hind me ; a third, which only touched my leg ; a fourth, that just 
 missed me. It really seemed the Lord was my defence. Not sat- 
 isfied with these attempts at abuse, he came with a loaded horse- 
 whip, and gave me a severe blow, which caused exquisite pain, 
 and left its mark for two weeks. His father, with some others, 
 stopped him, and prevented any further violence. Proceeding a 
 little distance on my way, I felt grieved at his awful situation, and 
 prayed God to have mercy on his soul. A\1iile on my kness, the 
 young man passed by, and swearing very wickedly, loaded me with 
 curses. 
 
 In the latter part of my stay in these regions, I went into Ca- 
 millus, and attended several meetings in the village of Elbridge, 
 where the revival was progressing powerfully, and visited consid- 
 erably from house to^house, praying with the anxious and exliort- 
 ing them to resign every thing for Jesus' sake. In the family of a 
 certain lawyer, where I had been invited, I enjoyed much freedom 
 in conversation and prayer. One of the daughters was awakened 
 to seek the " pearl of great price." Shortly afterward, her father 
 told me that she had become discouraged, and invited me to call 
 again. I complied with his request, and again prayed with her, 
 and she again renewed her covenant. Soon after this, she was 
 converted, and publicly professed faith in Christ. Within the cir- 
 cle of my visits, was the family of a respectable merchant, who 
 himself was a lover of religion ; but his companion was opposed to 
 the revival. I requested liberty to pray, which was granted ; and 
 my poor heart felt encouraged, when, as I arose, his wife was in 
 tears. After adding a few words of exhortation, I went out ; the 
 merchant following, spoke affectionately to me, and left a half dol- 
 lar in my hand. Soon after, in compliance with his request, I vis- 
 ited them a second time, and prayed with his companion, who 
 again seemed affected, but not fully persuaded to embrace Christ. 
 Alas ! how many wait for a convenient season, to their own de- 
 struction. 
 
 In the east part of Camillus, I attended several meetings, pass- 
 ed through some severe trials, and spent many solitary hours, feeling 
 like a lonely stranger in the earth, often weeping till my eyes were 
 sore. Persecution met me on almost every hand ; some said the 
 lad ought to be whipped home, &c. At an evening meetmg where 
 
32 MEMOIRS Of 
 
 Elder Morrill preached, I spoke in exhortation. After Its close, 
 no one inviting me to a lodging, I was left alone in the house. But 
 soon after, Elder Morrill kindly inquired for me, returned, and took 
 me to the place where he was staying. The grief and discourage- 
 ment that overcame me, touched his heart ; and taking me into 
 his lap, as he would a child, he spoke words of consolation that 
 gave me relief. I enjoyed much satisfaction in the revival in 
 these towns ; and notwithstanding my severe trials, my faith was con- 
 firmed, that duty called me to labor in the vineyard of the Lord ; and 
 my heart was encouraged by the success with which Grod blessed 
 my feeble endeavors in the awakening and conversion of a few. 
 
 It was calculated, that in Brutus, Camillus, and the adjacent 
 towns, six or seven hundred professed to pass from death unto life. 
 In this work I labored about one month and attended forty -four 
 meetings ; but did not confine myself to a text, or pretend to ser- 
 monize. When about to return home, I was much interested at 
 Treat settlement, with Moses Manrow, a lad of about fifteen years, 
 belonging to the denomination called Christian. He exhibited much 
 talent in public speaking, for one of his age, appeared humble, and de- 
 desired to travel with me. The proposal was pleasing, for I believed 
 he would make a good yoke fellow in the gospel ; and being admit- 
 ted as a companion, on the 17th of April, 1821, he accompanied 
 me on my return to my parents. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Particulars of a three months' journey to Holland Purchase. 
 
 A week soon passed in the society of the family circle, and its 
 enjoyment was sweet to my soul. During this period, my mother 
 conversed and advised much with me on such subjects as she 
 thought would be useful; a presentiment seeming fixed in her 
 mind, that she was enjoying the last opportunity she should ever 
 have, to bestow her counsel. Her words sunk deep into my heart, 
 and, with thankfulness, I blessed God for a pious and affectionate 
 mother. The passing moments seemed precious, while I listened 
 to the sweet accents that fell from her lips, and endeavored to trea- 
 sure up the instruction she was giving me. Home was pleasant ; 
 but the time was at hand that required my departure. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 33 
 
 The church in Junius had given me a letter of commendation ; 
 and the morning of April 2G, was appointed for mj departure. It 
 dawned a beautiful morning ; but grief sat heavy on our hearts. 
 Together we bowed at the altar of mercy, where often in days that 
 are past, we had felt the consolations of Heaven, and had been 
 united to each other by ties stronger than those of natui-al affection. 
 My mother, with a trembling voice, called on the name of the 
 Lord, and fervently entreated, that his preserving power and choice 
 blessings might attend her beloved son, just going from her care, 
 perhaps for ever. Often she had prayed for me — and bitter now 
 was the thought, that this might be the last time I should ever hear 
 her supplications in my behalf. The moment of separation had 
 come ; and giving my brothers and sisters the parting hand, I pass- 
 ed from the parental roof. My parents followed me to the corner 
 of the house. The weeping father then took me by the hand, and 
 in a faltering voice, said, ''Whenever you wish to return, my 
 house shall be your home. God bless you, my son. Farewell." 
 My dear mother then giving me a dollar, grasped my hand, and 
 pressed it affectionately. On casting a look at her features, I saw 
 they were convulsed ; the big swelling tears rolling fast from her 
 eyes, betrayed the conflict in her bosom. Her chin quivered, her 
 lips moved, and she faintly articulated, " Adieu ! my child, adieu ! 
 The Lord go with thee." My spirit almost failed within me, while 
 I witnessed their agonizing emotions. Bidding them farewell, I 
 sighed adieu, again and again. But O, the feelings of my heart! 
 Where am I going ? Into the wide world ; to face its frowns ; en- 
 dure its taunts and vile reproaches, as once my Master did. But, 
 " It is enough that the servant be as his lord." Coming to a rise 
 of ground, in sight of my father's house, I turned to view once 
 more the beloved forms of those dear parents, and cast on them my 
 last look. They were standing where we parted, apparently weep- 
 ing, and following with their eyes the departing child, as though 
 anxious to catch the last glimpse. My mother's face was some- 
 what bowed down, and the sight touched again every tender feel- 
 ing, awakening all my sympathy, till, in addition to my own, their 
 sorrow became my sorrow. I gave another look, thinking perhaps 
 it was the last, then sighed farewell. The places where I had 
 passed the scenes of childhood, now met my sight, and seemed 
 bound to my affections by a thousand tender associations. But 
 while grief was almost bursting my heart, the sweet promise of 
 Cln-ist, contained in Mark 10:29, 30, dropped as if fix)m heaven in- 
 to my soul ; " There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, 
 or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for 
 my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive a hundred fold now 
 in this time, houses, and brethi*en, and sisters, and mothei"s, and 
 
34: MEMOIRS OI^ 
 
 children, and lands, with persecutions ; and in the world to come 
 eternal life." My mourning was now turned into rejoicing, and 
 raj tears into songs of praise. 
 
 After walking twenty-one miles, in company with the lad before 
 mentioned, we found entertainment for the night a few miles south 
 of Greneva, with a Congregationalist family, who were kind. In 
 the morning we proceeded to Benton ; and there visited from 
 house to house, conversing with all, as opportunity presented, upon 
 the importance and necessity of a speedy preparation to meet God. 
 A young man at a tavern, whom I thus counselled, scoiFed at me, 
 and ridiculed religion. My soul was pained, and falling on ray 
 knees, I besought the Lord to touch the heart of this young man 
 by his Spirit — give him to see the aggravated nature of his trans- 
 gressions, and to feel his need of the Savior. While thus suppli- 
 cating the mercy of God, the young man continued to talk in a 
 loud tone of voice, and finally asked me to take some tobacco. His 
 mother, though a professor, instead of reproving him, reprimanded 
 me severely, for going about talking to people older than myself. 
 After justifying my practice, by telling her I believed the Lord re- 
 quired it at my hand, she closed the conversation with a remark too 
 vulgar to name. Taking leave of them, I went on my way, sigh- 
 ing for the evil done by professors, .who are destitute of the mind 
 that was in Christ Jesus. Their conduct strengthens the hands of 
 the wicked. They enter not into the kingdom themselves, and 
 them that would enter, they hinder. 
 
 April 29, Sabbath, we attended a meeting in Milo — in which I 
 spake a few minutes under considerable embarrassment — ^and after- 
 ward retired to a wood much depressed in spirit, and sorely pained 
 with doubts and fears, lest I had mistaken the path of duty in at- 
 tempting to labor in Zion. Returning to the house of a friend, and 
 finding no relief, I determined to fast and pray. Li doing this, all 
 doubts and gloom were dispersed, and my heart was encouraged to 
 continue in the work of the Lord. 
 
 Tuesday, May 1, I spoke to a crowded and solemn audience, and 
 it was a season of refreshing to my soul. Meeting an assembly at 
 the house of Deacon Knapp, in Wayne, I spoke fi-om this text, — 
 " The wages of sin is death ; but the gift of God is eternal life, 
 through Jesus Christ our Lord." The Holy Spii'it touched the 
 hearts of some, and many wept. Thursday, in a meeting on the 
 east side of Crooked lake, the Lord was with me, and his Spirit at- 
 tended the word. After this, crossing the lake near Bluff Point, 
 and walking a few miles into Poultney, I spoke to an assembly ; 
 but- to me it was a barren season, and the language of my heart 
 was, ' how can I preach the gospel to a hard-hearted and gainsay- 
 ing people.' Finding an answer, " My grace is sufficient for thee," 
 
DAVID MARKS. 35 
 
 we went to the north part of Poiiltney, and there spoke the word 
 to a few, who heard with candor. 
 
 Saturday, May 5, I went to Jerusalem, and gave out appoint- 
 ments for the next day. Sabbath morning, at the hour of nine, we 
 met for worship on the west hill in Jerusalem. The assembly was 
 large, and it was a time of Emmanuel's power : several wept, and 
 kneeled for prayers. At one o'clock, P. M., the Lord assisted me 
 in speaking to a crowded and solemn assembly on the east hill of 
 Jerusalem: two manifested a resolution to seek the Lord. At 
 three o'clock, P. M., I met another congregation in the north part 
 of the town, and enjoyed the presence of my Master. Here, M. 
 Manrow left me suddenly, without assigning any reason. At six 
 in the evening, I attended a fourth meeting in Middlesex, and the 
 next day walked twelve miles, and attended two meetings. The 
 day following, I visited Canandaigua ; and meeting the Episcopa* 
 lian minister in the street, stated to him my desire to speak to the 
 people concerning the things of eternity. " What !" said he, " are 
 you preaching? You are not capable of preaching. You cannot 
 preach. We put young gifts to learning, till they become men." 
 He then left me. After several fruitless attempts to find a house 
 open for meeting, among professed Christians, I turned to " Cesar's 
 kingdom," and without difficulty obtained leave to hold a meeting 
 in the court house. About one hundred assembled. While stating 
 in my introduction, the reason of my leaving home, and the partic- 
 ular exercises of my mind concerning public speaking, a gentle- 
 man in the jurors' seat, looked me steadfastly in the face, and said, 
 " Young man, we came to hear you preach ; not to hear your ex- 
 perience. If you are going to preach, we wish you to proceed." 
 This somewhat confused me ; however I named a text, and pro- 
 ceeded with some embarrassment. About twenty left the assembly 
 before the conclusion of the discourse. At the close of the meet- 
 ing, one gentleman gave me half a dollar, and another, a small 
 piece. During my discourse, I observed two men without the court 
 house in earnest conversation, and pointing towards me ; and when 
 passing the jail, a woman came to the door, and asked me a num- 
 ber of questions concerning my manner of life. After proceeding 
 a little distance, I saw a man leave the jail, and come after me in a 
 wagon with much speed. These circumsta,nces, together with that 
 of many having left the meeting, induced me to think they might 
 possibly look on me with suspicion, and wish to put me in jail. 
 The man overtook me, said he supposed I was a stranger, and in* 
 vited me to go home with him. As it was three miles from my 
 purposed route, it was after considerable solicitation that I return* 
 ed. He was a Calvinistic Baptist, and treated me as a friend. 
 
36 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 The little good effect apparent from my last meeting, and the 
 contempt manifested at my endeavors to warn, the wicked, bore 
 heavily upon me. In addition to this, my friend told me, he thought 
 my learning was not sufficient to make my public addresses gener- 
 ally interesting ; and advised me to go home and stay, till I should 
 be of age, or at least two or three years. I now felt a deeper lone- 
 liness than I had ever before experienced. Though entreated, I 
 could not eat, but retired to my lodging, where sleep was a stran- 
 ger, and there gave vent to my grief, till my eyes were sore with 
 weeping. In the morning my grief was not assuaged, nor the foun- 
 tain of my tears di'ained. I ate no breakfast, but went my way 
 before the sun rose, passed through the village of Canandaigua into 
 Gorham, and there turned aside in a wood, and laid myself on tlie 
 earth. 'My sorrow seemed greater than I could bear ; and life 
 seemed such a burden, that I was tempted to starve myself. As 
 this would be sin, I dared not resolve, — but thought, could I go 
 home, gladly would I haste to parental care. Beneath the shady 
 boughs of Gorham, I mourned, somewhat like Jonah under the 
 gourd, and desired death, unless my faith and hope should be in- 
 creased; then lifting my eyes toward heaven, I said, 'O Lord, 
 why hast thou sent me, a child, when men of experience might go ? 
 Why hast thou called an ignorant youth, and left the learned at 
 home ? I am had in derision, and mocked by the enemies of the 
 cross.' Two ways appeared ; either to go home, and renounce all 
 ideas of ever attempting to preach again, and thus please the great- 
 er part of my acquaintance, many of my bretln-en, and my natural 
 mind — or to continue laboring in the vineyard, and face a storm of 
 opposition. Feeling that necessity was laid upon me, that wo would 
 be mine if I preached not the gospel, I dared not disobey. Leav- 
 ing the wood, I went to a house, where the people were kind. 
 They gave me some food, and had a meeting notified in their vi- 
 cinity. The next day, I attended three meetings ; and the day fol- 
 lowing, walked twenty-five miles to Lyons, where the Benton Quar- 
 terly Meeting was to be held the 12th and loth of May. 
 
 Here I received a letter from my mother. It brought heavy ti- 
 dings, and a trial of which I had not thought. My father's house 
 was again burned with all its contents. This ti*ying scene happen- 
 ed only the Wednesday previous. My parents desired me to re- 
 turn and visit them in their affliction, provided I could have per- 
 mission from the Lord. Retiring to a field alone, solitude seemed 
 written on all below. I thought of the continued series of misfor- 
 tunes that had afflicted my dear parents, tiU all my sympathies 
 were awakened. Reading the letter again and again, I laid the 
 case before the Lord, when Luke 9:59, " Lord, suffer me first to 
 go and bury my father," occurred to my recollection ; and our 
 
DAVID MARKS* 37 
 
 Lord''s answer, " Let the dead bury their dead, but go thou and 
 preach the kingdom of God," kept passing through my mind. Fi- 
 nally, concluding I could do but little good should I return, and 
 believing the Lord still called me to go west, I wrote to my par- 
 ents, stating my sympathy for them, and conviction of duty, and 
 sent back the dollar that my mother gave me on the morning of 
 our separation. 
 
 Monday, leaving for the Holland Purchase, I walked nine miles 
 and held two meetings, in which some were awakened, who short- 
 ly professed to find Jesus. The two following days were spent in 
 Ontario, where I attended three meetings, and enjoyed peace and 
 liberty. Continuing my journey I crossed the Genesee river, and 
 in the afternoon of Friday, arrived at Eld. Jonathan N. Hinkley's, 
 in Hinckleyville. He had gone to the Bethany Quarterly Meet- 
 ing, which was to commence in Attica the next day. I stated that 
 I was going to that meeting, and requested something to eat. Sis- 
 ter Hinckley inquired whence I came, the object of my journey, 
 &c. Being answered, she said within herself, as she afterward 
 informed me, ' A likely story, that you, a little boy, have come 
 more than a hundred miles on foot to attend a Quarterly Meeting !' 
 Thus she concluded, I had only said this to get something to eat, 
 which she gave me, and let me go my way. I walked that even- 
 ing fifteen miles, to Byron, and about eleven o'clock, called at bro. 
 Gilman's, and found all had retired to rest. One arose, however, 
 unbolted the door, and gave me admission. After hearing my in- 
 troduction, he conducted me to the cupboard, and then to a lodging 
 with Elder Hinckley, who tarried in the house that night. This 
 was my first interview with him ; and the next morning, though 
 a stranger, he pitied my weariness, and insisted that I should ride 
 on his beast a part of the way to Attica, which was twenty-one 
 miles. 
 
 At one o'clock, P. M., we entered the meeting, and Eld. Hinck- 
 ley shortly after arose on the stand, looked around on the assem- 
 bly with a piercing eye, and then said : " I was not coming to this 
 place. I was going to Clarkson. But the Lord God said to me, 
 * Attica — Attica — Attica;' and I am here, thank God." He then 
 sat down. Feeling the cold chills pass over me, I looked ai'ound 
 and saw tears starting from many eyes. About one minute after, 
 he arose again and said : " It was in the north country, in the month 
 of April, when the snow was several feet deep on the earth, that 
 the Lord God found Jonathan, the atheist, and converted his soul 
 —and the leafless trees stretched their arms toward heaven and 
 praised God." Again, he took his seat ; but such was the power 
 that attended these words, that nearly the whole assembly were in 
 tears. The preaching that followed was interesting and refresh- 
 4 
 
38 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ing. Here I saw several ministers for the first time, some of whom 
 treated me affectionately; others, though they used me tenderly, 
 gave me to understand, they were doubtful of my being in the path 
 of duty, as they feared I had run without being sent. Again I fell 
 into a sore trial. For the opinion of preachers having much in- 
 fluence with me, I thought it possible that I might have been mis- 
 taken respecting duty. The query was presented to me, " How 
 can it be, that the Lord has called you to labor in his vineyard, 
 when so many good people believe it not ?" Retiring to a vale, I 
 walked on the banks of the Tonewanta, and my spirit sunk within 
 me ; now again I became weary of my life — and had strong temp- 
 tations to put a period to it. Could I have felt liberty from the 
 Lord to return home, my trial would have ceased ; but this I felt 
 forbidden to do. A monitor within strengthened me to resist 
 temptation, and continue in the work ; for it appeared that I must 
 know my duty for myself; and that, as another could not discharge 
 it, so another could not decide upon a case, that was wholly be- 
 tween God and my own soul. I returned to the Quarterly Meet- 
 ing about the time it closed, and spoke to those who would stay to 
 hear. 
 
 Monday, I held two meetings, — in one of which, some appeared 
 to be deeply convicted of their lost condition. On the day follow- 
 ing, I attended three meetings : in one of these, after sohciting those 
 who desired religion, to rise — and promising that I would try to 
 pray for them, twenty stood up in the assembly ; and several of 
 them by sighs and tears, confessed the danger they were in, by liv- 
 ing in sin. 
 
 Wednesday, I spoke to an assembly in Bennington. The Spirit 
 of the Lord was present, to the joy of saints and the conviction of 
 sinners. At eight the next morning, agreeably to appointment, I 
 met a congregation in Attica. Six were awakened to view their 
 lost condition, and promised to seek the Savior. At evening in the 
 same neighborhood, I held a meeting that continued till after three 
 o'clock in the morning. The Spirit of God was manifest in a mar- 
 vellous manner. Saints rejoiced and shouted aloud for joy — sin- 
 ners fell to the floor, wept and cried aloud for mercy. Having nev- 
 er witnessed such a scene before, I said, rashly, within myself, 'it 
 is confusion;' and this Scripture, "Our God is not the author of 
 confusion," came to my recollection ; and in my heart I condemn- 
 ed the work, till several of the awakened spoke forth the praises of 
 God, before my eyes, and told what the Lord had done for their 
 souls. Then, after considering the subject again, and the accounts 
 in sacred writ of certain meetings, where the Spirit of the Lord 
 was powerfully manifested, (see Ezra 13:12, 13. Acts 2:13 — 37,) 
 I could but be convinced it was the work of Israel's God. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 39 
 
 I labored in Attica and Bennington ten days, and attended 
 twelve meetings ; in these, several bowed before the Lord for the 
 first time, and called upon his name. Seven professed to be brought 
 into the fold of Jesus, and several wanderers were reclaimed. Oh 
 how glad was my heart, when the Lord looked upon the afflictions 
 of David, and granted him the desire of his soul, in permitting his 
 eyes to see the salvation of God. These few souls, which the Lord 
 gave me, were dear to my heart, even as children, and appeared 
 as seals and witnesses, that He had commissioned me to declare his 
 word to the sons of men. I next went to Sheldon, and attended 
 several meetings, in one of which, nearly twenty came forward for 
 prayers, and two were soon brought to rejoice in the liberty of the 
 sons of God. 
 
 Sunday, May 27, 1 attended six meetings ; two in Sheldon, one 
 in Bennington, and three in Attica. The congregations were large 
 and attentive. No unusual occurrence marked these meetings, yet 
 it was believed good was done. The next day I travelled twenty- 
 five miles and preached twice. The second meeting w^as in Attica, 
 and continued till two o'clock in the morning. Six happy converts 
 were present, and we sat together in a heavenly place in Christ. 
 Yea, many could say, 
 
 " My willing soul would stay in such a frame as this, 
 And sit, and sing itself away to everlasting bliss." 
 
 Tuesday, after travelling fifteen miles, I attended one meeting, — > 
 and the day following, preached three times. The Lord was pres- 
 ent in the assemblies, and many rejoiced in bright hopes of a happy 
 immortality. 
 
 Thursday, I walked twelve miles, and held three meetings ; and 
 the next day preached in the north part of Sheldon. The day fol- 
 lowing, I went to China, where the Erie Quarterly Meeting was 
 in session. Elders Richard M. Carey and Jeremiah Folsom were 
 present ; the preaching and other exercises were spiritual and in- 
 teresting. 
 
 One circumstance at this meeting greatly affected me. Having 
 retired from the assembly a small distance, I heard a very singular 
 sound in the barn where they were convened, that excited anxiety 
 and alarm. I returned in haste ; and on entering the meeting, 
 saw a young man standing before the assembly in a flood of tears ; 
 who, by signs and gestures, was attempting to describe the joys of 
 heaven, and the horrors of hell. The sound of his voice was inar- 
 ticulate, but varied with his signs to express happiness and misery. 
 The whole assembly w^as deeply affected ; to my astonishment, I 
 found that this young man, though deaf and dumb, had opened his 
 mouth to persuade the wicked from the way to hell. He had late- 
 
40 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ly experienced a hope in God, and related his experience by signs ; 
 showing his fears of punishment by looking at the fire, and then 
 pointing downward ; and his views of heaven, by touching things 
 that were bright, or of the color of gold, and pointing upward. He 
 desired and received baptism, and became a faitliful member of the 
 church. The exercises of the meeting appeared to interest him, as 
 much as any one ; and, though he could neither hear words, nor 
 articulate them, yet he had sounds peculiar to exhortation, prayer 
 and singing, accompanied by suitable gestures. I understood his 
 public exercises had been blessed to the conversion of several. 
 This was loud preaching, and many said, " If the Lord hath open- 
 ed the mouth of the dumb, it is time for us, who have the use of 
 speech, to confess Christ with the mouth unto salvation." 
 
 Sunday, June 4, 1 enjoyed unusual freedom in speaking to an as- 
 sembly in Concord. The day following, I went to Boston, Erie 
 county, N. Y., and the next morning, at the hour of six, spoke to a 
 crowded congregation, where my soul was led out into the hberty 
 of the gospel. Six ministers were present ; the hearts of the peo- 
 ple seemed melted by the presence of the God of Sabbaoth ; and it 
 was a time that doubtless will be remembered in eternity. I went 
 to Nichol's settlement, and in the early part of the evening gave out 
 an appointment. The house was soon filled, and we enjoyed a 
 solemn waiting before God. Convicting power touched the hearts 
 of some, who, before the exercises closed, desired the prayers of 
 Christians. Li the morning, I held another meeting at the same 
 place, and several covenanted to kneel and pray thrice a day, for 
 four weeks. The day following, I preached, in Zoar ; this was a 
 solemn, refreshing season, and at the close a number promised to 
 seek the Savior. Saturday, I travelled fifteen miles, and held two 
 meetings, in which twenty-five manifested- their desire for the " one 
 thing needful." One or two of the number soon professed to find 
 pardon through the blood of the Lamb. 
 
 Sabbath morning, June 10, after speaking to an assembly in a 
 bam, at the hour of seven, I went to Zoar, where a large congre- 
 gation was present ; and in declaring the glad tidings of salvation, 
 enjoyed much freedom. Here five solemnly covenanted to kneel 
 and pray twice a day, for the four weeks ensuing. After preach- 
 ing again in Nichol's settlement, I rode ten miles to Boston, and 
 found a numerous assembly, who had come out to hear the " hoi/ 
 preacher,'" the appellation by which I was generally known. The 
 Lord gave me confidence, with a good degree of his Spirit, and it 
 was a weeping season. Here our hearts were made glad ; twenty- 
 five precious awakened souls came forward, desiring the prayers of 
 God's children. Monday, after walking twenty-seven miles, I 
 preached once. Near the close of the meeting, I invited those who 
 
DAVID MARKS. 41 
 
 felt a need of vsalvation, and desired to obtain it, to come forward 
 and bow before the Lord, saying I would pray for them ; five ac- 
 cepted the invitation. After visiting and preaching in Sheldon, 
 Bennington, and Attica, I held a meeting in Pike, in which I was 
 publicly opposed by a Universalist, yet there appeared some good 
 signs. 
 
 I staid the night with a brother in Christ, whose name was John- 
 son. Soon after rising in the morning, the form of my mother sud- 
 denly appeared to my view, with a pallid countenance, and clad in 
 the habiliments of death. Before I was aware, turning to the fam- 
 ily, I said, ' My mother is dead,' and related the impression. For 
 some time previous, she had been in my thoughts but little, and the 
 idea that it was, or might be so, caused a bitter pang. Though 
 fears now troubled me, I hoped they would prove groundless. 
 
 From Pike, I went to Centerville, and attended a meeting, which 
 was truly solemn. Some were awakened and desired to be re- 
 membered at the throne of grace. Sunday, June 17, I preached 
 to four large congregations in Rushford and Centerville. The 
 power of Emmanuel was present in each meeting, and sinners 
 wept as they viewed themselves in the gospel glass. The next day 
 I spoke the word to a solemn audience in Pike ; and early in the 
 following day, at Six Acre lake. In the afternoon I was liighly 
 favored of the Lord, wliile pointing precious souls to the Friend of 
 sinners, at the east part of the town. 
 
 Wednesday, I preached in China ; the day after, walked thir- 
 teen miles in the rain, and attended three meetings. My shoes 
 were worn off from my feet; and on reaching the last appomt- 
 ment in Boston, Erie Co. I was much wearied; my feet were 
 blistered, and so painful, that I was obliged to sit with them on a 
 pillow, while speaking to the people. But amidst my privations 
 and sufferings for the cause of Christ, my heart felt that more than 
 double was rendered, by seeing one sinner this evening persuaded 
 to turn and live. 
 
 On Friday, I went to a camp meeting in Boston, and being re- 
 quested, preached in the evening, and tarried the next day. On 
 the Sabbath, feeling constrained by the love of Christ and a sense 
 of duty, though my feet were still bare, I addressed the people 
 fi'om the stand, and enjoyed good freedom. At the close of my 
 discourse, a man who was not a professor, left nearly two dollars 
 in my hand, and told me to purchase a pair of shoes; but before 
 an opportunity presented, a pair was given me. 
 
 On Monday, I preached in Buffham settlement, and in Aurora. 
 In the latter place, a heavenly season was enjoyed ; fifteen awaken- 
 ed souls promised to seek the Lord, and two of them were soon 
 brought to rejoice. The day following, I held a meeting in Wales ;, 
 4* 
 
42 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the next day, travelled sixteen miles, and preached twice. In the 
 latter meeting, two requested prayers. Thursday, after riding 
 twenty miles, I preached once ; and the day following, attended a 
 meeting in Pike, but saw none persuaded to turn to God. 
 
 Sunday morning, July 1, 1821, I went to Centerville. Num- 
 bers had assembled, and I felt great confiderlfee in declaring the 
 counsel of Heaven. This assembly was said to be the largest that 
 had ever been in the town. In the after part of the day, about 
 four hundred met in Rushford, many having come between ten and 
 fifteen miles. The Lord enabled me to come to the people in the 
 fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Many were smitten 
 by the sword of the Spirit ; a revival soon commenced, and,- as I 
 afterward learned,, fifty or sixty professed to find Him, of whom 
 Moses in the law and the prophets did write. In the evening, I 
 preached again at Centerville. The next day I travelled fifteen 
 miles and held two meetings; and the day following preached 
 twice in Pike. 
 
 On the 4th of July, Elder Kendall, a Calvinistic Baptist, preach- 
 ed at Centerville, and at the conclusion of his discourse, I address- 
 ed the audience. Elder Kendall made me a considerable present 
 of wearing apparel; and offered to give $100. toward a collegiate 
 education, provided I would go to Massachusetts and receive tuition 
 from one of his relatives. He also gave encouragement, that the 
 whole expense of a support at college should be defrayed. As this- 
 would prevent me from travelling to declare the glad tidings of sal- 
 vation, and thinking my life would be short, I could not accept his^ 
 kind offer. 
 
 Thursday, July 5, I went to a camp meeting in Warsaw, where 
 the preachers treated me with coldness. After a stay of one day, 
 havmg prayed twice on the camp ground, one of the ministers re- 
 proved me for taking up too much of the time. Feeling desirous 
 to address the people from the stand, I requested the privilege, but 
 was denied. During an intermission on Saturday, while convers- 
 ing with some individuals, and endeavoring to persuade them to be 
 reconciled to God, large numbers crowded to hear, till I had not 
 room to turn. Being solicited by some of the brethren, I climbed 
 upon a fire stand,* and commenced delivering my message. Near- 
 ly the whole assembly gathering around, listened attentively, and 
 many with tears. Soon one of the preachers requested me to be 
 as brief in my remarks as possible, and free my mind. Feeling 
 my duty was then discharged, I ceased speaking, and the next day 
 left the meeting. Having now a chain of appointments west of 
 
 * Fire stands are about six feet high, and constructed by placincr several stakes in the 
 ground, and covering the tops of them first with boards, and then with earth, for the pur- 
 pose of building fires on them, to give light in the night at camp meetings. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 43 
 
 Warsaw, I proceeded thirty-six miles ; and on Monday preached 
 in Sheldon and Wales. In the latter place, it was a time of Em- 
 manuel's poAver ; five penitents kneeled, while we called on Him 
 v/ho is able and mighty to save. One of the number soon found 
 Jesus. On the day after I preached at Aurora, and one who had 
 been awakened in one of my former meetings, was brought into the 
 liberty of the sons of God. In the after part of the day, I spoke 
 to a congregation in Boston ; one sinner was slain, and soon after 
 raised by the great Physician. The day following I preached in 
 Hamburg to a numerous concourse, who appeared to hear for the 
 judgment day. 
 
 July 11, I observed with solemn prayer, it being the second an- 
 niversary of my baptism. The day was pleasant. In the fore- 
 noon, I attended a meeting in Eden, where the solemnities of the 
 eternal world were unveiled, and the arrows of the King sharp in 
 the hearts of his enemies. Eleven thus wounded, bowed before 
 the Lord ; and while we implored his mercy, their cries and groans 
 resounded through the barn in which we were assembled. After 
 the meeting closed, as the people seemed very unwilling to leave 
 the place, I conversed with several who promised to seek God. 
 Addressing a young woman, who belonged to the Quakers, I asked 
 her if she desired the religion of tjie blessed Jesus. She made no 
 reply, but immediately started for home. Conviction followed her, 
 and her distress of mind became so great, that she .returned in 
 tears ; and meeting me in company with several anxious souls, as 
 we were passing from the barn to the house, she begged forgive- 
 ness for leaving me so abruptly, and said, she not only desired the 
 knowledge of God, but wished me to entreat his mercy for her. 
 After entering the house, we again called on the Lord. From this 
 good hour, a revival followed, in which several Quakers professed 
 to be born again. 
 
 After attending two other mee'tings, I went to Buffalo, and 
 preached to a numerous congregation in the Methodist chapel. 
 Sunday, July 15, I had an appointment in a grove at Hamburg. 
 Many, attracted by curiosity, came out to hear " the hoy ;" and it 
 was said the assembly was larger than any that had ever before^been 
 held in that town. I endeavored to trust in God, but did not see so 
 much of his power manifested as my heart would gladly have witness- 
 ed. In the evening, the Lord met with us again in Eden, and while 
 his glory beamed upon us, Zion's children rejoiced with exceeding 
 great joy, and sinners wept aloud. Ten or fifteen awakened souls 
 fell on their knees and humbly begged for pardon. The next day, 
 I travelled twenty miles and preached twice ; the day following, 
 walked fourteen miles to an appointment in Attica; and on 
 Thursday, returned to Eden, a distance of thirty-five miles. Here 
 
44 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 I met a crowded assembly, in which the power of the Highest ren- 
 dered the place both awful and glorious. Many went away mourn- 
 ing for their transgressions, and sighing for salvation. A confer- 
 ence was held in the evening : a large number spoke of the deal- 
 ings of the Lord with them, and several declared they would nev- 
 er rest till they found peace to their souls. The awakened became 
 so distressed, that near the close their cries were heard throughout 
 the assembly. Fifteen united in a circle, and bowed with us, while 
 we called on the Lord. One or two found peace, and went home 
 r^'oicing. 
 
 Friday, July 20, while I was preaching in Boston, the Spirit of 
 the Lord God descended upon us, and the cries of the wounded 
 were heard in every part of the congregation. Fourteen manifest- 
 ed their desires for salvation, and their resolutions to seek mercy ; 
 and two or three were hopefully converted. 
 
 On Saturday, an attack of the chicken pox brought on me the 
 pains of raging disorder. But having appointments, I walked ten 
 miles, to Aurora, in much distress of body, frequently lying down 
 by the way. The next day, being the Sabbath, Elder H., a Cal- 
 vinistic Baptist, and myself, undesignedly had appointments at the 
 same hour and place. The assembly was large, and on entering, I 
 took a seat as a stranger. Elder H., after stating that he under- 
 stood a boy, who had been preaching in those parts, had an ap- 
 pointment at that place, inquired if any one knew where he was. 
 On receiving an answer, he asked me if I belonged to any church, 
 or had credentials. My letter being presented, he reaxi it to the 
 assembly, and gave me liberty to preach. I loved to preach Jesus, 
 and improving the opportunity, enjoyed a precious season. In the 
 after part of the day, I walked nine miles, and preached twice, but 
 passed a restless night ; my illness having considerably increased. 
 
 On Monday morning, the rain was falling, and my strength al- 
 most spent ; yet an appointment, eleven miles distant, called me, 
 and sinners lay near my heart. After walking in much distress 
 four miles, my strength failed ; but borrowing a horse, I reached 
 my appointment at Vermont hill, both wet and cold. The house 
 was filled, and the people were attentive. Their trickling tears be- 
 spoke that they felt the melting influence of God's Holy Spirit. 
 After the meeting closed, I began conversing with individuals, and 
 asked them if they desired an interest in Christ. Some answered, 
 ' they did not at present ;' others that they ' could live without it a 
 little longer:' — some said they 'thought religion a good thing;' 
 and others, they ' would like it well enough.' I asked different 
 questions, relative to the state of their minds ; but notwithstanding 
 their tears and trembling, they answered evasively, — and no one 
 owning a desire for salvation, I went to Elder Folsom's, sorrowing 
 
DAVID MARKS. 45 
 
 and astonished at the obstinacy of sinful man. But as soon as the 
 evening came, six or seven, with whom I had conversed, came to 
 the house and desired me to pray for them. Next morning, I was 
 informed that two or three of this number had been in such distress 
 of mind, while they saw the sinfulness of their lives, that they neith- 
 er closed their eyes to sleep, nor lay down during the night. At 
 dawn of day, they returned to my lodging, and others continued to 
 come, till an hour after sunrising, when the number was increased 
 to fifteen. I prayed and conversed with them — then bidding them 
 adieu, went to my -appointment in Boston. Here the heavens 
 seemed to be opened, and the glory of God to fill the house. Pro- 
 fessors were revived, wanderers reclaimed, and our meeting was 
 crowned with the praises of two or three new-born souls. The 
 four days following I labored in Eden and Boston, 
 
 During four weeks that had now passed, the power of God was 
 frequently manifested in our meetings in these towns. While the 
 saints were made to sing and shout for joy, the cries of awakened 
 sinners, begging for mercy, often saluted our ears. Eighteen had 
 professed to find pardon through the blood of the Lamb. Among 
 this number, was one in advanced life, who for eight years had at- 
 tended but one or two religious meetings. His curiosity being ex- 
 cited by the report, that ' a boy of the age of fifteen, was preach- 
 ing among the people,' he came out to hear, looking with a scrutin- 
 izing eye at the youth, when, as he afterwards stated, the following 
 inquiries were suggested to his mind : ' If that lad is engaged in the 
 cause of religion, and so earnestly desires the welfare of men, as to 
 leave his father's house at this tender age, and go among strangers, 
 far away from home, to persuade men to be reconciled to God ; 
 what should I, an old man, be about ? I am living in sin in the 
 very evening of life^ while he is serving God in childhood.' Con- 
 viction reached his heart, and never left liim, till he was hopefully 
 converted. 
 
 July 29, after taking leave of the brethren in Boston and Eden, 
 .1 preached in Concord and China, and next day visited Center- 
 ville, little realizing the deep sorrows that awaited me. Being told 
 a letter in the Post Office waited my arrival, the recollection of my 
 impression six weeks before at brother Johnson's, in Pike, caused 
 me to tremble, and remark that I believed my mother was no 
 more. 
 
 With an agitated step, I hastened to the office. The letter was 
 presented, and a hlach seal confirmed my fears. I paused to pre- 
 pare for heavy tidings ; then opened the letter, and saw the name 
 subscribed was my father's. After naming the reception of my 
 last letter, he wrote thus : " You write, " Dear father and mother ;" 
 but, O my son, it has become my painful duty to inform you, that 
 
46 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 your mother is no more with us. A sudden attack of the quick 
 consumption confined her on the 16th of May, 1821, and she de- 
 parted this hfe on the 29 th of tlie same month." That which I 
 had feared, now came upon me. I could read no further — the ten- 
 der ties were rent asunder. I retired, that my heart might bleed 
 its anguish. When the first impulse of grief had a little subsided, 
 I read my letter, and with subsequent information, gathered the 
 following particulars. 
 
 My parents, after the burning of their dwelling, prepared a 
 neighboring cottage for their abode, into which they* gathered a 
 few things, till a house my father had purchased, should be remov- 
 ed to the place they had selected. Shortly after, my mother, hav- 
 ing no candles, seated herself in the door of the cottage one even- 
 ing, to repair garments for the family by moon-light. The next 
 morning she found she had taken cold, and said to my father, " I 
 am ill, and I shall die. Our cottage is uncomfortable, and I will 
 go to one of the neighbor's and there end my days." But he, sup- 
 posing their late affliction had cast a gloom over her mind, and that 
 ill health had discouraged her, hoped she would soon recover, and 
 be restored to her usual cheerfulness. She went to the house of 
 Mr. W., apparently without serious symptoms of a course of sick- 
 ness ; and said, " I am not well, and have come to your house 
 to be sick and die." Mr. W., surprised at the remark, kindly re- 
 plied, " You are welcome to my house ; but I trust you mistake 
 in expecting death." The same day she took her bed, and seem- 
 ingly closed her eyes upon the world. Though not yet attacked vi- 
 olently, she said she should no more arise. My father proposed to 
 call a physician. She replied, " It will do no good ; but if it will 
 afford you any satisfaction I am willing." Mr. M., a skillful phy- 
 sician, attended, and at first did not consider her case alarming ; 
 but soon her destiny appeared to be unalterably fixed. 
 
 My brother Friend, while sitting by her, said, " I cannot bear 
 the thought that you should now die and leave us." She calmly 
 replied, " My son, nearly forty-five years have I spent in this world 
 of tribulation. "VVe commenced in comfortable circumstances, with 
 fair prospects of the future ; but once have been stripped of all, — 
 twice our dwelling has been consumed. Life has been a continued 
 series of disappointments, and now I am nearly through all my sor- 
 rows. The Lord is about to take me to himself, — and O, my child, 
 how can you wish me to stay here any longer." My brother, 
 bursting into tears, could say no more, but retired in secret to vent 
 his grief. Rosanna, an only daughter, of the age of seven, and the 
 youngest, a son of five years, having heard her say she should die, 
 went several times each to her bed, weeping and saying, " Mamma, 
 I don't want you should die." Always, before this, when confined 
 
DAVID MARKS. 47 
 
 by sickness, or expecting the approach of death, she had expressed 
 much affection for her children, and concern for their welfare ; but 
 now, it seemed that a view of death, and discovery of eternity, had 
 banished anxiety and absorbed natural affection. Though she had 
 always been a tender mother, now the only reply to her innocent 
 babes was, " Go away" Being frequently asked if she did not 
 wish to see David, her repeated answer was, " No." Once, in re- 
 ply to the same question, she said, "You may think it strange that 
 I say no ; but it is because he is engaged in the cause of Christ, 
 which I do not wish liim to leave to visit me. I am going home ; 
 he will soon finish his work and follow me." 
 
 On the morning of the 28th of May, her physician, after giving 
 some directions concerning her medicine, said he must leave, but 
 would call again the next day. She replied, " You need not come ; 
 for it will be useless ; if you come to-morrow, you will find me a 
 corpse." At one o'clock, P. M., she became speechless, and the 
 pains of death began. Several times, my father desired her to 
 press his hand, if she felt confident of her acceptance with God. 
 This she continued to do as often as requested, until her strength so 
 failed, that she could only stretch her hand a little. Her distress 
 was very great; but at the hour of four, the next morning, her 
 Savior called— she left her pain and anguish — and exchanged this 
 world of sorrow, this vale of tears, I trust, for a world of glory 
 and immortal bliss. 
 
 Another little circumstance touched my heart. The dollar that 
 I sent back after the house was burned, was used toward purchas- 
 ing her grave apparel. O, how distant was the thought, when I 
 received that dollar from my mother, and returned it, that this 
 would be its application ! 
 
48 MEMOIKS OB* 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Particulars of my labors, and other occurrences, from July, 1821, 
 to November following. 
 
 Elder Kendall kindly gave me the use of a horse to visit our be- ' 
 reaved family. On the morning of August 2, 1821, I proceeded 
 on the journey, which was 130 miles ; and on the evening of the 
 fourth, arrived at my father's dwelHng. But, O how gloomy ! All 
 that met my sight was marked with change. The house I left was 
 gone, and another erected on other ground. The mantle of night 
 had cast its shade around. I knocked at the door, but all was 
 silent as the house of death. Receiving no answer, I entered, and 
 found my younger brother sleeping by the fire. Upon awaking 
 him, he burst into tears, and exclaimed, " O, David ! is this you ? 
 mamma is dead !" After informing me that my father and eldest 
 brother had gone a few miles from home, he conducted me to the 
 chamber, where the two youngest children were in bed. Awaking 
 from sleep, Rosanna threw her arms around my neck, and with 
 much grief cried, " Mamma is dead." Jeremiah also told me the 
 same, as though the tidings were new. This was a heart-touching 
 scene. Soon my father and brother returned ; but O, how empty 
 and solitary the house appeared ! Death seemed engraven on the 
 walls, and on all things around. Together we bowed before the 
 Lord, when a remembrance of the solemn scene on the morning of 
 our separation, caused my heart a bitter pang. Our number was 
 less than at that time, — that voice, which then so fervently implor- 
 ed the mercies of Heaven at the family altar, we heard not. Alas ! 
 it was silent and mute in death. Memory, faithful to its office, 
 brought to mind the excellent counsel and emphatical warnings my 
 dear mother had given me, accompanied by the painful assurance 
 that they could never again be repeated. The next morning was 
 the Sabbath. I arose early, and viewed in solemn silence the sur- 
 rounding scenery. The ruins of the old house brought the recol- 
 lection of departed years ; but another spot met my eye. It was 
 where I last beheld the form of my departed mother. O, how 
 dreary and. desolate all creation appeared ! With bitterness I said, 
 " All below is vanity." 
 
 We repaired to the house of worship. The empty seat in the 
 carriage, and the vacant place in the house of God, told us, in si- 
 lent language, that death had bereaved us ; and pointed to the 
 dark confines of the tomb. After the morning service, in company 
 with my father and family, I walked to the " congregation of the 
 deadj" there I gazed on the mound, beneath which rested the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 49 
 
 body of my mother, and watered it with my tears. But my heart 
 was not without consolation ; I rejoiced in the midst of sorrow ; for 
 I thought, " Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord." Here she 
 rests in peace. No more the toils of life, the afflictions and woes 
 of this land of pain and death, assail her. She rests in the bosom 
 of that Savior, who on earth was so dear to her, and whose cause 
 was so precious to her heart. Though I deeply felt and mourned 
 my loss, yet, while I knew it was her eternal gain, for her I could 
 rejoice. In a little time I shall finish my work and follow her. 
 After wandering a little longer in the earth, warning sinners and 
 weeping over them, I shall rest from my labors, and rejoin her to 
 sing praises to God and the Lamb for ever. Bidding adieu to her 
 peaceful grave, I endeavored in the afternoon, with feelings of 
 great solemnity, to point sinners to the Savior. 
 
 After a stay of four days in Junius, duty called for my depart- 
 ure. Bidding my father and brothers farewell, on the 9th of Au- 
 gust, they went to their labor, and my little sister sat alone in the 
 house. Just as I was ready to leave, she burst into tears and said, 
 *' O David, don't leave me. It is very lonesome here since mamma 
 died." It seemed as though my heart would break. I tried to 
 console her, and quiet her gi-ief, telling her, it was for poor sinners 
 that I left her; they were going down to death, and the Lord had 
 made it my duty to warn them. This was a trying hour; — ^but, 
 committing her to the care of Heaven, I proceeded to Wayne, 
 where the Benton Quarterly Meeting was to be held, on the 11th 
 and 12th of the month. The meeting was highly favored from the 
 presence of the Lord. Four were hopefully converted — wander- 
 ers confessed their backslidings — and several went to their homes 
 inquiring the way to Zion. 
 
 Monday, after riding forty miles to Bristol, to attend an appoint- 
 ment previously left with a landlady for circulation, I found she 
 had not given it notice. She said she believed me an impostor, 
 and had not expected my return. But, notwithstanding I had re- 
 turned according to agreement, she was then unwilling I should 
 preach in her house. Being destitute of money, much fatigued, 
 and faint with hunger, having ate nothing during the day's jour- 
 ney, I requested some food, but it was refused ! then asking some- 
 thing for my horse, this also was refused. So leaving her, I rode 
 about two miles, made application for a lodging, which was grant- 
 ed, and my necessities kindly relieved. The next day I rode thir- 
 ty miles to an appointment in Perry ; and the day following to 
 Centerville, returned the horse I had borrowed, and in the evening 
 attended a meeting. Thursday and Friday I walked 36 miles to 
 Bethany, and preached once by the way. 
 5 
 
50 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 On Friday, Aug. 17, 1821, 1 had the satisfaction of being pres- 
 ent at the organization of the Holland Purchase Yearly Meeting. 
 Three Quarterly Meetings, viz : Bethany, Erie, and Benton, unit- 
 ed by delegation ; and the following particulars concerning their 
 rise and numbers at that period, were presented: 
 
 Bethany Quarterly Meeting was the first of the Freewill Bap- 
 tist denomination, organized in the state of New York. It was 
 gathered in 1813, through the instrumentality of Elder Nathaniel 
 Brown, a faithful minister of Christ, who left his brethren in Straf- 
 ford, Vermont, about the year 1810. At this time, it consisted of 
 tliirteen churches, which numbered five hundred and forty-eight 
 members, nine elders, and six unordained preachers. 
 
 Erie Quarterly Meeting was organized from the Bethany Quar- 
 terly Meeting, about the year 1818. It now had eight churches — 
 which consisted of three elders, four unordained preachers, and one 
 hundred and ninety-eight members. 
 
 Benton Quarterly Meeting was gathered by Elder Zebulon 
 Dean, about the year 1818. At this time it consisted of six church- 
 es, containing one hundred and twenty-two members, five elders, 
 and three unordained preachers. 
 
 Total number in the Yearly Meeting, seventeen elders, thirteen 
 unordained preachers, and eight hundred and sixty-eight members. 
 
 On Saturday, a good season was enjoyed. On the Sabbath, a 
 numerous assembly was present. Five sermons were delivered, 
 which were very instructive and refreshing. On an evening of 
 this meeting, I attended worship where several preachers were 
 present, and gave an exhortation; but being a stranger, the peo- 
 ple, as they dispersed, left me alone in the school-house, which some 
 one locked. My Master declared at one time, that he " had not 
 where to lay his head ;" when I thought of my comfortable shelter, 
 my mind was composed, and placing two or three benches together, 
 I laid myself on them and fell into a sweet slumber. In the mean- 
 time, a person who was not a professor, after he had gone a mile 
 toward home, knowing I was locked in the house, felt uneasy, and 
 obtaining the key, returned and awoke me, and would have me go 
 to his house. 
 
 From Bethany, I went to Wales and Boston, and preached in 
 each town ; then returning home, attended two meetings by the 
 way. I spent about three weeks in Junius, held fifteen meetings, 
 and met with considerable opposition. My trials were great ; but 
 the words of Christ, Matt. 13:57, " A prophet is not without honor, 
 save in his own country," encouraged me to walk in the path of 
 obedience, — ^believing that if God had called me to preach his 
 word, he would uphold me in the day of trouble ; and that amid all 
 the changes of life, his grace would be sufficient for those who put 
 
DAVID MARKS. 51 
 
 their trust in him. One man gave notice that he would provide a 
 handful of whips at my next meeting, and would give a gallon of 
 whiskey to any one that would wear them out on me. Sickness 
 immediately confined him, so that at my next meeting, he was un- 
 able to attend. One of his children was taken ill about the same 
 time, and died in a few days. How great is the care God has of 
 his children ! — Not a hair shall fall to the ground without his no- 
 tice. I understood that, at another time, some of the planks were 
 removed from a bridge, over which I was expected to pass in the 
 evening. The " Guide of my youth" turned my feet another way, 
 and thus preserved me from the snare of my enemies. A member 
 of the church told me, my foes were intending to lie in wait when 
 I went away, and take my life. O that God may not lay these 
 sins to their charge ; but in mercy may He give them to see the 
 folly of their ways. 
 
 About this time, I felt considerable desire to acquire a knowl- 
 edge of English Grammar ; but as my views of duty would not per- 
 mit me to leave the work to which God had appointed me, to at- 
 tend a school, I reasoned with myself thus : If men have had suffi- 
 cient genius to form and arrange the rules of language, and the ex- 
 perience and learning of ages have presented them in a style, plain 
 and familiar, cannot a knowledge of this science be obtained with- 
 out going to school ? The continued di'opping of water will wear 
 even a stone ; by resolution and perseverance, any thing within the 
 sphere of man may be accomplished. As a knowledge of gram- 
 mar might greatly extend my usefulness, I concluded that, if life 
 continue, I can and will obtain this knowledge. Yet I had no book, 
 neither money to purchase one. But, as one day's labor on the 
 Erie canal, that was near, would furnish me with the money, I 
 went to a marsh west of Montezuma, and engaged in pumping 
 water. Soon one of the laborers accosted me thus : " "What ! you at 
 work on the canal ? I thought you spent your whole time in preach- 
 ing." Telling him the occasion of my being thus engaged, he 
 seemed touched, and gave me a shilling ; then called on his com- 
 rades to show a like favor. They soon gave me money enough 
 for my desired object, and dismissed me, requesting that I should 
 preach to the workmen the ensuing evening. Accordingly I com- 
 plied, and enjoyed the presence of God. I understood that some 
 of the wicked laborers had designed to whip me, and that others, 
 learning this, had determined to defend me by force. This, how- 
 ever, they had no occasion to do, for the Lord protected me, and I 
 was permitted to return to Junius in peace. 
 
 Having now obtained a book, I commenced the study of gram- 
 mar ; and occasionally received some instruction from friends that 
 I met with in my subsequent travels. I studied while travelling on 
 
52 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the road, for hundreds of miles, and at length measurably succeed- 
 ed in my desired object. 
 
 During my stay in Junius, I was called to witness a solemn 
 scene. A neighbor, who resided near, had stated that, soon after 
 the burial of my mother, a noise was heard in the burying ground 
 like the opening of a grave. The mound also over her had sunk 
 much below the surface of the surrounding earth. From these cir- 
 cumstances, we feared that her body had been taken away, and 
 concluded to open her grave. Our family and a few others were 
 present on the occasion. After prayer, our friends proceeded to 
 open the silent mansion — ^and with a trembling heart, I waited the 
 solemn sight. If the coffin should be empty, tliis must give us un- 
 pleasant feehngs ; and if, on the other hand, the remains of the ten- 
 der parent should be found, I knew this would be a sight from 
 which my feelings must shrink with horror. The lid was raised, 
 and a human form appeared. At first I could hardly beheve it 
 was that of my mother. But reflection convinced me that these 
 were the remains of that tender mother, whom I left in health only 
 the spring before. But O, the change ! The coffin was half full 
 of dark water, that appeared once to have entirely covered the 
 body. The face had the color of dark earth ; the flesh had fallen 
 away from the cheeks, leavmg the teeth bare ; and her eyes had 
 sunk deep in their sockets. Her arms had sunk in the body, till 
 they were nearly level with its surface. While gazing on these 
 remains, I exclaimed within myself, O my God ! is this my moth- 
 er ! Are those the arms that embraced me in infancy ! — those the 
 eyes that wept over me ! — ^is that the bosom to which, in childhood, 
 I was tenderly pressed ! As an unpleasant affluvia compelled me 
 to turn away, I said of the dust, ' Thou art my mother.' And the 
 thought rushed upon me with great solemnity, ' this is a looking- 
 glass for me. Thus it will soon be with me, and with all the hv- 
 ing. But her spirit is not here ; it has fled beyond the limits of 
 mortahty.' The coffin being again closed, and the grave filled up, 
 we retired from the instructive scene, while solemn reflections of the 
 resurrection gave me great consolation. 
 
 September 19, my father kindly purchased me a horse, and al- 
 lowed me six months to make the payment. The next morning, I 
 left home for Manlius, and rode twenty miles without a saddle, 
 then left my horse in Elbridge, and the day following walked twen- 
 six miles and held one meeting, in which sinners wept and samts 
 rejoiced. One mourning soul cried to God, and soon after found 
 peace in Jesus. 
 
 Sunday, 23. A large number assembled at the place of my ap- 
 pointment. The Lord gave me boldness to speak in his name, and 
 his Spirit attended the word. Many who came, expecting the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 53 
 
 " ^oy," like Sampson, would only make sport for them, wept pro- 
 fusely. In the afternoon, I preached at Manlius four coraers, to 
 several hundred. The Master of assemblies presided and Zion re- 
 joiced. Sinners were pricked in the heart ; — ^and inviting those 
 who were desirous of salvation, to manifest it by rising, my heart 
 leaped with joy, to behold thirty rise in the assembly. Several of 
 them wept bitterly, and eight or nine never rested till Jesus ap- 
 peared to them the chiefest among ten thousand, and the one alto- 
 gether lovely. Three dollars were given me in this place, for 
 which I thanked God. Monday, I walked twenty-eight miles, and 
 preached in Gettysburg and Elbridge. 
 
 After this, I went to Lysander, Oswego, and Scriba. I attend- 
 ed meetings in each place ; in the latter some appeared sensible of 
 their danger, and promised to seek the Lord. Sunday, September 
 30, 1 rode ten miles, and preached at the Oswego falls, from the 
 word ' Fire / and, indeed, felt the word shut up like fire in my 
 bones. The next day I spoke to an attentive audience in Camil- 
 lus, and the day following returned to Junius. 
 
 My father's dwelling was more lonely than ever, my sister and 
 youngest brother having been committed to the care of strangers, 
 thirty miles from home. With me, Junius had lost much of its 
 power to delight. The ties which had made it dear to my heart, 
 were nearly all rent asunder. The places where I had formerly 
 enjoyed the society of my relatives, were now empty, and called 
 up bitter recollections. 
 
 After a short stay in Junius, and holding a few meetings, I again 
 visited the Holland Purchase, and enjoyed some favored seasons,- 
 while pointing sinners to the Savior. During my visit, I attended 
 the Erie Quarterly Meeting in the town of Holland, on the third 
 and fourth of November, 1821. The sermons were interesting, 
 and some good degree of the Spirit was present. 
 
 After visiting and preaching in Boston, I returned to Junius,, 
 and arrived at my father's on the 13th of November. 
 5* 
 
M MEMOIRS OF 
 
 CHAPTER VL 
 
 My Journey to New Hampshire, 
 
 From a constant perusal of the Religious Informer, a periodi- 
 cal published by one of our preachers in New Hampshire, I be- 
 came much attached to many in New England. An anxiety for 
 months had been increasing in my mind to see these brethren, 
 many of whom had been long in the holy war, and had borne the 
 burden and heat of the day. I wished to become acquainted with 
 their spirit and manners, and learn instruction from them. Believ- 
 ing such an opportunity would be useful to me, and having made 
 it a subject of prayer, I now thought duty called me to visit the 
 brethren in that section. 
 
 Accordingly, after a stay of an hour and a half at my father's, 
 on Tuesday, the 13th of November, I commenced the journey. My 
 temporal prospects were discouraging. I had a young horse, no 
 saddle, great coat, or money ; and was going among strangers, a 
 distance of more than four hundred miles. But being bound in 
 spirit to go thither, I beheved the Lord would provide for me. At 
 evening, I attended a meeting on the island west of Montezuma. 
 The next day I crossed the toll bridge at Montezuma, promising to 
 pay the tax on my return. At Brutus, I held a meeting, and there 
 met Moses Manrow, who desu-ed to accompany me to New Hamp- 
 shire. He also was destitute of money. 
 
 Thursday, we attended my appointment in Elbridge. The next 
 morning we came to a turnpike gate in Camillus, and after telling 
 the gate keeper my situation and business, I requested a free pas- 
 sage. Being denied, I offered my hat, coat, or shoes, for security. 
 He replied, he wanted the money ; but after detaining me half an 
 hour, let me pass, with a charge never to come to that gate again 
 with a horse and no money. Proceeding ten miles, I preached a 
 little east of Nine Mile Point, at 9 o'clock, A. M. The assembly 
 heard attentively, and seemed not entirely indifferent to " life's on- 
 ly great concern." At 3 o'clock, P. M., I spoke to a congregation 
 in Gettysburg, and in the evening to one in Syracuse. 
 
 Sunday, November 18, I spoke to two assemblies in Manlius, in 
 which the benign influence of the Holy Spirit was felt. On the next 
 day, at a meeting in OrviUe, some appeared to feel the need of sal- 
 vation. In the evening, I preached at Manlius Square, to a very 
 attentive audience, and the day following, to an assembly in Pom- 
 pey, where a few shillings were given to enable me to pass the 
 gates. The ensuing evening we met a congregation in the south 
 part of the town ; and on the day after proceeded fifteen miles, and 
 
DAVID MARKS. ^ 
 
 spent the evening in a Methodist prayer meeting. The next morn- 
 ing at 7 o'clock, I preached in Christian Hollow. Here I met with 
 unexpected embarrassment ; for, by some means, I had lost the 
 record of my appointments in a strange land. The most I knew of 
 them was, they were in a southern direction. After proceeding 
 twenty miles, I found that I had missed two ; and then obtained in- 
 formation of four others. 
 
 Friday, we came to a grave yard, where the congregation was 
 attending to the burial of a young woman, who only the Tuesday 
 previous was in the bloom of health. She remarked, while stand- 
 ing before the glass,^ dressing her hair, she intended to go to school 
 the whole winter. In a few minutes she felt the attacks of disor- 
 der, and in thirty-six hours bid the world adieu. During this short 
 illness, she bitterly lamented the misimprovement of her time. Two 
 weeks previous she attended a gay party, and joined in the dance ; 
 but now, when death was summoning her to appear before her 
 Judge, with grief she said, " O, that I had spent that time praying 
 to God !" She then called her parents to pray for her. This they 
 had often done, and also counselled her to prepare for the solemn 
 change ; but her ears had been deaf to all their entreaties, — for 
 she thought that as she was in the morning of life, she had time 
 enough yet to attend to religion. Now she regretted her refusal of 
 the friendly counsel, and said, " O that all young people were pre- 
 sent, that I might warn them not to do as I have done ! O, tell 
 them from me, when I am dead, not to live in sin as I have." Just 
 before her eyes closed in death she exclaimed, " I am going to re- 
 ceive my everlasting fate !" lam going to dwell with devils!" 
 After her burial the people retired to a house — and as their ex- 
 pected preacher had not arrived, being requested, I addressed them 
 a few minutes, concerning the mortality of man, and the necessity 
 of being prepared for the awful change of death. After praying 
 with them, we proceeded to my appointment in Truxton. The 
 next day I preached thrice ; a friend gave me a great coat, which, 
 though considerably worn, was gladly received. 
 
 Sunday, Nov. 25, I attended worship in Truxton, where two or 
 three were awakened, and kneeled for prayer. A revival follow- 
 ed, in which several were added to the Lord. Leaving Truxton, 
 I preached in De Ruyter village, and the next day proceeded twen- 
 ty miles to Murray and Lebanon, and there held four meetings. 
 Going next to Plainfield, I enjoyed the privilege of speaking to a 
 congregation, composed chiefly of young converts. The children 
 of God had been gladdened by a glorious revival in the towns of 
 Plainfield and Winfield, in which many had leai'ned the song of 
 Zion. Saturday I enjoyed a refreshing season with the " Seventh 
 day" Christians. Here an invitation was given me to preach in 
 
5& MEMOIRS OF 
 
 Brookfiekl. As it was eight miles from my intended course, I at 
 first declined ; but being much imjiortuned, I finally sent an ap- 
 pointment for the next Tuesday. Sabbath, Dec. 2, I preached in 
 the Free Communion Baptist meeting house ; in the evening, on 
 the Cherry Valley turnpike, and the next day at a school house. 
 
 Tuesday, I addressed a considerable number of people in Brook- 
 field, from Gen. 3:19, " Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou re- 
 turn." Many, touched by the power of God, wept, and five sin-sick 
 souls bowed at mercy's altar. Feeling an impression of duty, I 
 made a second appointment at the York school house. Several 
 hundred attended : the Lord led my soul out into the deep waters, 
 and by his Spirit, fastened conviction in many hearts. A good pros- 
 pect of revival in Brookfield now appeared, and I was in doubt 
 whether it were duty to stay or to proceed on my journey. But, 
 remembering a promise I made, after leaving the revival in Boston 
 and Eden, which stopped soon after, that if the Lord would make 
 me instrumental of one more revival, I w^ould not leave it till sen- 
 sible it was his will, I concluded to tarry a little season ; and I re- 
 quested my heavenly Father, if it was my duty to stay, and if my 
 eyes should there see his salvation, that, for a witness of it, he would 
 convert two souls before the close of that week. Dec. 9, one was 
 converted, and testified what God had done for his soul ; and be- 
 fore the week closed, another was brought into the fold of Jesus. 
 This desired witness satisfying me as to duty, I continued my la- 
 bors. On Dec. 12, one more was converted, and the number of the 
 anxious increased. 
 
 But now the enemy of all righteousness, seeing his kingdom in- 
 vaded, and his servants deserting his standai'd, rallied his forces. 
 Li their opposition they used for weapons, ignorance, prejudice, 
 bigotry, superstition, and falsehood. Scandalous reports were 
 circulated, both concerning myself and the subjects of the revival. 
 But the Captain of our salvation fought for his people, and suffer- 
 ed not his work to be hindered. In our meeting on the 19th of 
 the month, several ridiculed religion, yet the season was solemn to 
 many, and some cried for mercy. One young man, who was 
 thoughtless and disorderly in the early part of the meeting, was cut 
 to the heart, while witnessing the tears of Christians, whose pray- 
 ers were raised to God in his behalf. When conviction, which he 
 then called " a singular feeling," sunk into his heart, immediately 
 he left the house for home — returned — set out again — returned 
 again — and coming to me, desired my prayers for his poor soul. I 
 bowed with him and supplicated Heaven's mercy. He appeared 
 to be a very humble penitent, cried fervently to God for pardon, 
 and soon after was happy in the Savior's love. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 57 
 
 On the evening of Dec. 23, we enjoyed a heavenly season in the 
 courts of our God. I delivered a discourse to several hundreds, 
 and afterward a large number spoke of the goodness of God : oth- 
 ers anxiously desired salvation, and prayed for a pardon of their 
 gins. Before the close of the meeting, which was at two in the 
 morning, seven, who thus wept and mourned, were brought to re- 
 joice and give glory to God. 
 
 January 1, 1822. About fifteen had professed faith in Christ. 
 I had now been travelling one year to preach the gospel. A min- 
 gled cup of joy and sorrow had been my portion. My greatest sor- 
 row had been, to see poor sinners slight the Savior, and by their 
 mad rejection, prepare themselves for eternal wo and wretched- 
 ness. I had enjoyed peace of mind, in warning and weeping over 
 them ; and feeling encouraged by the success God had given my 
 labors, I determined to spend my life on the walls of Zion. 
 
 The work of God continuing, I generally held from seven to ten 
 meetings in a week. At the York school house, there were usually 
 from three to five, and sometimes seven hundred people. Once, 
 after preaching a full atonement and free salvation, I was opposed 
 by a Calvinistic preacher. But we afterward enjoyed heavenly re- 
 freshing, and the converts, in a very affecting manner, frequently 
 spoke of the goodness of the Lord. In an evening meeting, sixty 
 spoke of the goodness of God after semion, and declared that they 
 were resolved, through grace, to persevere in obedience to the com- 
 mands of the dear Redeemer. Many of their testimonies were in 
 the Spirit, and in quick succession. But in the latter part of Jan- 
 uary, this happy state of things seemed a little changed. Certain 
 professed ministers of the Prince of peace came into the vicinity of 
 the revival, and preached their doctrines. A party spirit followed, 
 and hindered the work. From a conviction of duty, I withdrew 
 my appointments from the York school house, and Avent into the 
 north and north-east parts of the town. Here sinners began to cry 
 for mercy, and the revival spread. Jan. 18, at a meeting in Gor- 
 don's settlement, five or six arose and said, that within a week past 
 they had found Jesus. 
 
 Jan. 19. Having labored under much trial on account of a tri- 
 fling spirit, which frequently influenced my conversation and de- 
 portment, I resolved to fast and continue in prayer, hoping to ob- 
 tain victory over this sinful propensity. With this resolution I 
 went to Eaton, where Elder J. Shaw, a preacher of the Six Prin- 
 ciple Baptists, had solicited an appointment, hoping the warnings of 
 a youth of sixteen might touch the hearts of his children, for none 
 of them had yet been converted. I held two meetmgs in that towm, 
 and felt much of the solemn power of God. The spirit of truth at- 
 tended the word to the hearts of the people. A few were awaken- 
 
58 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ed, who covenanted to seek the Lord, and were soon happy in the 
 smiles of the Savior. Their testimonies were blessed to the 
 awakening of others, and this good work continued, till about fifty 
 or sixty were brought into the fold of Christ. Among these, ac- 
 cording to the hope of Elder Shaw, I think, were two or three of 
 his children.* Leaving Eaton the same day, I held a meeting at 
 the Baptist Seminary in Hamilton. On the next evening, I preach- 
 ed in Brookfield, and then, having fasted fifty-five hours, and feel- 
 ing much blessed and strengthened of the Lord, I received food. 
 After this I held several meetings, in which the power of Crod was 
 manifested. 
 
 Six weeks had now passed since I first came to Brookfield, — in 
 this time thirty-five or forty professed to be born again. I also 
 preached frequently in other places, particularly in Plainfield, and 
 at times felt much of the presence and Spirit of God. In this town, 
 also, a few were converted, and a number of wanderers returned 
 to the fold of Christ. 
 
 At the close of a meeting I spoke to a young w^oman of the im- 
 portance of being prepared to meet God, but she treated the sol- 
 emn subject of wliich I spoke, with a degree of contempt that I nev- 
 er before saw equalled by one of her age and sex. Solemn im- 
 pressions concerning her situation, filled my mind with awful 
 weight ; and I said to her, I greatly fear y if you do not repent, God 
 will take you from time in less than a year. In about eight months 
 from this, as she was spinning at her wheel, near mid-day, appar- 
 ently in health, the hand of distress was laid upon her. She left 
 her wheel — retired to the bed — and in fifteen minutes was a corpse ! 
 Thus was she snatched away without an hour's warning. O, how 
 sudden ! how shocking to her parents and relatives ! To them, as 
 well as to her, what a change of scene is presented — and how quick 
 the transition ! The daughter, whom a few moments before they 
 saw in health, now lies cold in death. The wheel at which she was 
 busied is still in its place, unmoved — and the roll that was in her 
 hand, still hangs from the spindle. Ye gay — ^ye thoughtless ! — 
 from this take warning, and dare not to trifle with your God ! 
 
 M. Manrow was with me in Brookfield most of the time, and 
 generally took part in the meetings, though sometimes he made 
 separate appointments. His labors seemed to be useful ; but, with 
 pain, I discovered that he was unstable, and trifling in his conver- 
 sation. He received my reproofs kindly, and often with tears. 
 
 * An individual who resided in Eaton recently told me, that at the commencement of 
 the first meeting the " boy preacher'''' held in Eaton, he arose and said to the people, 
 there were three words he wished them to remember. These were '■'■deaths judgment 
 and eternity.'''' Such was the solemnity of his manner, that the effect on the assembly 
 was like an electric shock. Many were in tears, and afterwards several of the converts 
 dated their awakening from this circumstance. [Editress.] 
 
DAVID MARKS. 59 
 
 Viewing his soul and his gifts precious, I felt to treat him tenderly^ 
 hoping he would overcome the follies of his youth. But as he was 
 more ready to hear reproof than to reform, I sometimes regretted 
 that he had obtained my consent to travel with me. 
 
 An old sleigh and two or three dollars were given us in Brook- 
 field. In the latter part of January, taking leave of the converts, 
 we proceeded to Hardwick : there we held several meetings in the 
 Christian meeting house, and one in the Universalist. In the lat- 
 ter was a large and attentive assembly; some were very solemn, 
 others opposed, and afterwards, as I was informed, threatened to 
 beat me. After holding several other meetings in Hardwick, and 
 enjoying good seasons, we attended a meeting in Canajoharrie. 
 Eight came forward for prayer. One promised to kneel and pray 
 thrice a day for five weeks, who, together with several others, was 
 soon converted. Here I discovered my horse was sick ; but not 
 having money to get him kept in the place, we proceeded slowly 
 twelve miles to Charlestown, and held one meeting. Then, leav- 
 ing my horse in the care of a good man, we pursued our journey 
 on foot. 
 
 February 1, we walked to Rotterdam, and the next day attend- 
 ed meeting with the Methodists in Schenectady. We went home 
 with the preacher, and I desired to leave an appointment at his 
 chapel, to attend on my return. After examining my credentials, 
 and consulting some of his society, he told me they had concluded, 
 as I was a boy, and could not injure the house, to grant me the 
 privilege. Proceeding eastward, we crossed the Hudson, passed 
 through Troy, and arrived at Brunswick in the early part of the 
 evening. Being requested to hold a meeting, immediate notice 
 was given, and about thirty collected, to whom I spoke with free- 
 dom. 
 
 In the morning we pursued our way, but my mind was in great 
 trial, from the singular and irreligious deportment of the youth who 
 accompanied me. His levity seemed daily to increase, and I now 
 despaired of any reform, for reproof was in vain. I wept, not only 
 for his soul, but for my own misfortune, in having fallen into com- 
 pany that was worse than useless. After consideration, I told him 
 my grievances, and my wish to separate. This he refused, saying, 
 " I can travel as fast, or as slow as you can, and I will go with you 
 to Andover, N. H. It will be useless for you to contend with me, 
 as this will only close the hearts of strangers." I attempted to sep- 
 arate from him, but he prevailed. So, being a stranger, and with- 
 out friends, I had to submit to his will, painful as it was, and pa- 
 tiently bear with him, till the way should open for my deliverance. 
 We tarried the ensuing night in Bennington, Vt. — the next day, 
 
60 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 crossing the green mountains, we waded through a deep snow to 
 Wilmington. 
 
 In the morning, after paying our last money for the night's lodg- 
 ing and a few crackers, we went to Brattleboro', where was a toll 
 bridge across the Connecticut river. After telling the toll receiv- 
 er our situation, I requested a free passage. He inquired if we 
 had money, and received answer that we had not. He then asked 
 me of my business. I replied, I am trying to preach the gospel. 
 " What ! you preach ?" said he. " Who sent you ?" " The Lord, 
 I trust." " What !" he rejoined, " the Lord send you without 
 money ! I think then He is a poor paymaster." I answered, " He 
 sent his apostles without purse or scrip ; and in like manner I think 
 He has sent me." He then inquired, " Have you any friends in 
 the place from which you came ?" " I believe I have," was my 
 reply. He then remarked, "I doubt whether you have any 
 friends ; if you had, they would have provided money for your ex- 
 penses ; I guess you are an impostor." On my offering to show 
 him my letters of commendation, he said, " I don't wish to see 
 them ; pay your toll and be off*." Again I told him, as I had no 
 money, I could not. In a manner too abrupt to name, he bid me 
 say no more, but go back whence I came ; then he fastened the 
 gate, went into his house and shut the door. I turned away, and 
 leaned over the railing of the bridge. The recollection of days 
 when I was blessed with parental care, when I enjoyed the society 
 of friends and brethren dear to my heart, and reflections on my 
 present situation, now crowded into my mind ; the contrast over- 
 powered my feelings, and my tears mingled with the stream. 
 While thus venting my grief, several passed the gate. At length 
 I fell on my knees, and besought the Lord to open my way, pro- 
 vided he had sent me ; and if he had not, I desired it might contin- 
 ue to be hedged up. When I arose, two men stood behind me, 
 and one of them asked, " What is the matter ?" I replied, " I 
 wish to pass the gate, but have no money." He then paid our toll, 
 which I think was not more than four cents ; and much to my sur- 
 prise, began to swear, and curse the gate keeper for detaining trav- 
 ellers because they had no money. This has reminded me of the 
 ravens that were sent to feed Elijah, when the Lord's professed 
 people did not; and also of the Scripture, Prov. 21:18, which saith, 
 " The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the trans- 
 gressor for the upright." 
 
 We had now entered New Hampshire, and were both weary and 
 hungry. On coming to a large house, where all things around 
 indicated that the inhabitant was wealthy, I thought to go in and 
 beg a little food; but this Scripture occurring to mind, "How 
 hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God," 
 
t>AVlD MARKS. 61 
 
 we passed on, and went into a little cottage, whose appearance be- 
 spoke poverty. The people fed us, and I felt to thank God. Pro- 
 ceeding a few miles into Chesterfield, I began, as the sun was set- 
 ' ting, to seek a lodging ; but at every house, for some miles, I sought 
 in vain. For as soon as they learned the object of my journey, the 
 repeated answer was, " No." Had a poor drunkard asked their 
 charity, doubtless they would have given him as much as a crust 
 of bread, and a lodging by their fire-side ; but as I was a poor 
 preacher, of a dissenting order ^ to me they would grant no favors. 
 Some attempted to justify their conduct by this Scripture, " Re- 
 ceive them not into your housed' 
 
 After requesting entertainment at a certain house, being asked 
 of my business, I answered, " I believe the Lord has called me to 
 labor in his vineyard ; and in obedience to this requirement, I am 
 endeavoring to preach the gospel." Then they said that no one 
 should preach without a collegiate education ; and that such charac- 
 ters as I was they considered the false prophets, that should come 
 in the latter days — ^and on such they should bestow no favors. It 
 was now about 9 o'clock in the evening ; and having found no shel- 
 ter, the possibility of perishing in the street by cold, was suggest- 
 ed. Without asking leave, I kneeled down, and entreated the 
 Lord that my way might be opened ; or if I must perish, that I 
 might be reconciled, and submit to my fate without a murmuring 
 word, or a repining thought. On bidding them farewell, the wo- 
 man of the house said, " Stop a minute, I wish to talk with you. 
 What made you first entertain an idea that the Lord had called 
 you to preach ?" I answered, " The impression of his Spirit on ■ 
 my mind, and its agreement with the Scriptures." After asking 
 several more questions, she said, " You may stay the night, pro- 
 vided you will be civil, conform to our rules, retire in season, be 
 locked in the room, and at 11 o'clock have a young man come to 
 your apartment and lodge with you." I observed that we wished 
 to leave early in the morning, and inquired at what time they would 
 let us out. She replied, ''At our own time.'* Not choosing to 
 comply with such requisitions, we left them. 
 
 We next called on a man who was a deacon. He asked his wife 
 if we could tarry, but she refused her consent. Being busy, he had 
 no leisure to make further inquiries ; but giving us a piece of mon- 
 ney, said, " You can provide lodgings with that." I thanked both 
 him and my Heavenly Father, and obtained lodgings at the next 
 house. We retired to rest without any refreshment, and in the 
 morning our hostess, who was a widow, kindly gave us breakfast. 
 And with a heart glowing with gratitude to Him who hears the 
 young ravens when th^y cry, I went on to Sullivan, and there 
 preached Jesus, The following day we proceeded to Bradford, 
 6 
 
62 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 tarried with a Freewill Baptist deacon, who treated us courteously. 
 We spent the next night in Wilmot, with a brother who received 
 us affectionately, and my heart was comforted beneath his roof. 
 
 Feb. 10, was the Sabbath, and finding a congregation in Ando- 
 ver, assembled to hear Eld. Jesse Thompson, we went in, stran- 
 gers to all present, and took a seat. At the close of his sermon, I 
 made a few remarks. This meeting was very solemn and refresh- 
 ing. In the afternoon. Elder Thompson invited me to address the 
 people. In compliance with the invitation, I opened my mouth, 
 and the Lord gave utterance ; he made his word as sharp arrows 
 in the hearts of his enemies, and almost every face was bedewed 
 with tears. Near the close of the exercises, about one hundred, on 
 being requested, arose to manifest their desires to find Jesus. In 
 the evening I attended a conference meeting, and the next day 
 preached in a ball-room. Several, humbling themselves, bowed 
 with Christians in time of devotion. 
 
 About this time, Moses Manrow left me. He now took his own 
 course ; soon became irreligious, and at length a base impostor. 
 . May God save me, and all who read this, from pride, " the snare 
 of the fowler," which effected the downfall of this youth, who but 
 for this, might have been a burning light. 
 
 During the four days following, I held two meetings in Wilmot, 
 two in Sutton, in which several kneeled for prayers, one in Spring- 
 field, and on the 16th of the month, went to Enfield, and tarried 
 the night with Elder E. Chase, editor of the Religious Informer. 
 
 Sunday, Feb. 17, Elder J. Thompson preached at Enfield, in a 
 ball-room : after sermon, I gave an exhortation ; and in the even- 
 ing enjoyed a solemn season at Canaan, while entreating sinners 
 to be reconciled to God. Next morning, I left without breakfast, 
 having twelve or fourteen miles to walk before ten o'clock. After 
 going nine miles through the deep and drifted snow, my strength 
 was nearly exhausted ; but embracing an opportunity to ride the 
 rest of the way, I reached my appointment. The Lord gave me 
 freedom in speaking from Romans 9:13, " Jacob have I loved, but 
 Esau have I hated :" and my soul was filled with joy inexpressi- 
 ble. Many wept, and I believe good was done. In the evening, 
 we enjoyed a solemn season in the south part of Wilmot. The 
 four days following, I spent in Andover, and attended six meet- 
 ings, in which were appearances of good ; but not so much pros- 
 pect of a revival as had been expected. Feb. 23, 1 held another 
 meeting in Wilmot ; the day following in Springfield, and my soul 
 was filled with the joys of the heavenly world. 
 
 I was now about to return to New York. The people here had 
 received me in the name of the Lord, and shown me great kind- 
 ness. I came to them penniless ; but, through their liberality, I 
 
DAVID MARKS. 63 
 
 had now SIO. My prayer was, that God would reward them ; 
 for I believed, agreeably to the words of Christ, Matt. 10:42, 
 " Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup 
 of cold water only, in the name of a disciple, shall not lose his re- 
 ward." 
 
 Monday, Feb. 25, I commenced my journey ; having a chain of 
 appointments four hundred and fifty miles in length, and some of 
 nine months standing. The day before, considerable snow had 
 fallen, and the wind blew, so that in some places, the road was 
 filled to the tops of the fences ; yet I was enabled to walk twenty- 
 two miles, and attend three appointments. The following day, 
 after travelling fifteen miles to Washington, I found that I could 
 not get to my appointment in season, and hired a man to carry me 
 four miles : still it was eight miles further and the road not broken. 
 Proceeding slowly, I arrived at the meeting about seven in the 
 evening. The house was filled with people, and I commenced 
 speaking; but was soon interrupted by some that came to make 
 disturbance. I entreated them to behave with decency, but they 
 were the more outrageous, and swore violently. Some present 
 threatened them with prosecution if they did not desist ; upon 
 which, one laid aside his coat to fight. After expostulating with 
 them a considerable time, and being convinced that all attempts to 
 persuade them to order would be useless, I left the assembly, and 
 it soon dispersed. This meeting was in Stoddard, N. H., and the 
 only one of my appointments that was ever broken up by the un- 
 godly ; probably this would not have been, had not the disturbers 
 been drunken. 
 
 I went to the tavern, and some of the assembly followed, wish- 
 ing me to preach there ; but the gang pursued us, and soon all was 
 confusion. Some who appeared friendly observed, that as I was 
 a stranger and had suffered abuse, they would make a contribution, 
 as a kind of compensation. To this I objected. A few cents 
 were offered me, which I chose not to accept ; being resolved, if 
 the people would not hear my Master's word, to receive none of 
 their substance. O the grief of my heart, while witnessing the 
 rebellion of this people ! My soul mourned, and my eyes ran 
 down with tears. I left the place, and walking five miles further, 
 stopped for the night ; but in the morning, finding that amid the 
 troubles of the preceding evening, a bundle of my clothes had 
 been left at the tavern, I hired a horse, and after returning for them, 
 proceeded again on foot. 
 
 The road being muddy, and the remaining snow melting, I was 
 much fatigued. All things appeared gloomy ; and for miles I 
 strewed my path with tears. Then, sitting down by the way side 
 to rest my weary limbs, I thought of home, — of the great and im- 
 
^4 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 portant work in which I was engaged ; the powers of unbelief; 
 and the hardness of men's hearts. O, hoAV insufficient to preach 
 the gospel, did I feel! But, while refiectmg that the Lord's 
 strength is made perfect in weakness, in those whom he sends ; 
 that he knows all the sorrows of his children ; that he hath said, 
 " Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world," — a 
 voice whispered, " My grace is suj^cierit far thee" My heart was 
 comforted, 
 
 Feb. 28, I preached in Chesterfield, near the manufactory, to an 
 attentive assembly and enjoyed the presence of my Master. In 
 the west part of the town, after rising a hill near Connecticut riv- 
 er, I saw, in a vale before me, a large assembly in front of a house : 
 I recollected kneeling and praying near that place, four weeks pre- 
 vious, and making an appointment for a boy of sixteen to preach at 
 this hour. Some, as they were passing by, heard it, and circulated the 
 notice quite largely. As I approached the crowd, an aged, grave, and 
 neatly dressed gentleman, met me; and inquired if I was the young 
 man who appointed that meeting ; being answered in the affirma- 
 tive, he invited me to follow him. The people giving place, we 
 came to the door of the house, which was already full. He hand- 
 ed me his Bible, and placed a chair upon the door step. Standing 
 in the chair, I spoke from the Scripture, ''Many are called^hut few 
 are chosen.'' Matt. 22:14. I endeavored to show who are called, 
 even all that are afar off by wicked works, according to the invita- 
 tion of Scripture, Isa. 45:22. " Look unto me, arid he ye saved, 
 all the ends of the earth ; for I am God and there is none else'^ 
 Then I attempted to show, that they who are chosen, are chosen 
 " through sanctification of the Spirit," and belief of the truth — 
 that they must believe, before they can become the chosen of the 
 Lord; and that the reason ihsitfew are chosen, is, that few w^ill 
 hear or obey the call. Much solemnity rested on the assembly, and 
 the greater part seemed deeply affected. At the close of the meet- 
 ing, the gentleman before named, returned thanks to the Lord, — 
 for the happy disappointment they had met with — ^that the young 
 man, instead of ridiculing the religion of Jesus, as they had feared 
 he would,* had come with tears, entreating his fellow youth to 
 be reconciled to God — and besought the Lord to impress the sol- 
 emn truth they had heard upon their minds. He then proposed a 
 contribution, and several dollars were given me. I was informed 
 that tliis gentleman was a preacher, and an officer of a literary in- 
 
 * From the novelty of the appointment made as above named, for a boy of sixteen to 
 preach, a large concourse of people were expected to assemble. And as the friends of 
 religion feared that either the boy would not attend, or, if he should attend, that his ob- 
 ject might be to ridicule religion, they had solicited this traveller to delay his journey a 
 day, and attend this meeting, for the purpose of promoting order, and of preaching to 
 the people if circumstances should require. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 65 
 
 stitution of distinction in New England, and that he was now go- 
 ing, in company with his wife, to visit his friends in Vermont. On 
 leaving the place, he carried me in his sleigh two miles, invited me 
 to go home with him, and said he would give ten dollars toward 
 my support at school. As I did not incline to his proposal, he then 
 said, he would himself give me six months' support at college, and 
 that a whole course of collegiate study should be provided me free 
 of expense, if I would return with him. But having appoint- 
 ments, and feeling no liberty to leave the work to which God had 
 called me, I expressed my mind, acknowledged his kindness, and told 
 him I could not accept his generous offer. He then remarked, 
 that education was good, and very necessary ; although without it, 
 men called of God, miglit be useful. To these remarks, I assent- 
 ed ; and would gladly have accepted his proposal, could I have 
 done it without the sacrifice of my peace. Science may gain the 
 favor of man — find access to the hearts of many, and may often 
 extend the preacher's usefulness. But the path of duty appeared 
 to lead me in a more humble and self-denying way ; to go to the 
 poor and the ignorant ;• — to tell them, in my simple language, that Je- 
 sus died for sinners, and exhort them to flee from the wrath to come. 
 On parting, he gave me good counsel, and bade me " God speed." 
 
 I then crossed the Connecticut and West rivers, and found a 
 large assembly in Dummerston, almost weary of waiting for me. 
 The Lord gave me a message to the people. Here was a church 
 that had left the Calvinistie Baptists, and declared themselves 
 Freewill Baptists ; though they knew no denomination professing 
 their sentiments. When they first separated, their number was 
 small ; but now it had increased to eighty, and several other con- 
 siderable churches had united with them. Elders Mann and 
 AYells had the care of them ; — ^like other dissenters, they had been 
 much persecuted. They received me gladly ; and we found we 
 were of one heart, of one soul, and spoke the same thing. These 
 churches afterward united with the Freewill Baptist denomina- 
 tion. 
 
 March 1. In Marlborough, Vermont, I spoke to a few ; of these, 
 some laughed, and some wept. The next day, I crossed the Green 
 Mountains to Bennington ; and the day following went to Hoosac, 
 where I had made an appointment at the Baptist meeting house, 
 provided the church should be willing I should preach in it ; oth- 
 erwise, it was to be in the highway. This day being the Sabbath, 
 the church, after consulting together, concluded, that as I could not 
 harm the house, I might address the people. Putting my trust in 
 the Lord, I spoke on the subject of the resurrection. March 4, at 
 a meeting in Brunswick, the Lord gave me much of his Spmt, and 
 touched the hearts of the hearers. Two dollars were here given me. 
 6* 
 
66 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 March 5. I had an appointment at the court house in Troy. 
 On my arrival, finding the door closed against me, I gave notice 
 that I would preach on the steps in fifteen ' minutes. But before 
 the time expired, the door was opened, a number assembled, and 
 I spoke to them according to the grace given me. A well dressed 
 gentleman, having a large ivory-headed cane, hung by a ribbon on 
 his wrist, sat just before me, and seemed to hear and look very 
 earnestly. At first, he appeared to me like "some great one," who 
 thought, by his presence, to embarrass me ; and to my sorrow I 
 found myself somewhat intimidated ; but remembering that men 
 are only dust, and that the servant of the Most High should not 
 fear the face of clay, my mind was measurably relieved of its em- 
 barrassment. When the meeting closed, he beckoned to me, observ- 
 ing that he wished some conversation. Following him two rods 
 from the court house, he stopped on the side walk, raised his hand, 
 and in an elevated tone of voice, said ; " / am a Methodist 
 preacher in this city, and your friend ; — I advise you to go home 
 and stay there till you can preach. You may preach till you are 
 as old as Methuselah, and you will never do any good, unless you 
 preach better than you have to-dayP He then left me without fur- 
 ther ceremony. I stood amazed, and a flood of tears bursting 
 from my eyes, gave some relief to my wounded spirit. Gladly 
 would I have taken his advice, if I could have enjoyed peace in so 
 doing. But my commission had not been received from man, nei- 
 ther could it be recalled by man ; and the path of duty had been 
 made too plain for me to doubt at this time. A friend solicited 
 me to go to his house and take refreshment ; but an appointment 
 necessitated me to decline. We walked a little distance in com- 
 pany, and he inquired, " What said our preacher to you ?" I gave 
 no answer till he remarked, they feared he had said something that 
 would occasion me a trial. I then stated his remarks ; upon which 
 lie appeared grieved, and observed, " He will hear of this again." 
 In an affectionate manner, he gave me good advice, and said, " Do 
 not be discouraged, but do what you think to be duty ;" then bid- 
 ding me " God speed," we parted. This man was a citizen of 
 Troy, and a justice of the peace. I understood that for many 
 years, he had been a member of the Methodist society, and for 
 some time a class leader. Some others invited me to their hous- 
 es, and on parting, left some small pieces of money in my hand. 
 
 At this time, the ice in the Hudson was broken up, and floating 
 down the stream, rendered the crossing so dangerous, that the ferry- 
 man durst not venture with me till evening; then without difficulty we 
 reached the opposite shore. The mud was deep, and the travelling 
 quite fatiguing ; I succeeded, however, in meeting my appointment 
 the next morning in Schenectady. On the day following, I went 
 
DAVID MARKS. &7 
 
 to Florida, and preached to a solemn assembly in a ball room. The 
 Schoharrie bridge had been carried away by a late flood, which 
 obliged me to disappoint two congregations. Walking up the creek 
 nine miles in the early part of the evening, I crossed on Burton's 
 bridge ; and then walked seven miles further, to Dea. Campbell's, 
 in Charlestown ; where, at a late hour, they received me affection- 
 ately. Here, I found my horse had been very sick, and was now 
 hardly fit for use. I held a meeting in this place, and a good sea- 
 son was enjoyed. The people were very kind, and communicated 
 considerable, for which I felt grateful. 
 
 I next held meetings in Canajoharrie, Hardwick, and Winfield. 
 Sabbath, March 10, I spoke to an assembly of several hundred in 
 Brookfield. The converts, with apparent gladness, welcomed my 
 return ; and many of them appeared much engaged. Several, who 
 were mourning for their sins when I left the town the winter be- 
 fore, were now happy in the Lord. 
 
 On Monday morning I left early, having an appointment at the 
 Baptist Seminary in Hamilton, at 9 o'clock, A. M. When within 
 tliree miles of the place, as I was riding down a hill on a quick 
 step, my horse stumbled, and I fell on my head ; but rising imme- 
 diately on my feet, a violent pain caused by the fall, deprived me 
 of strength, and I fell into a ditch by the side of the road. The 
 air appeared to me full of fire, and everything had a fiery and un- 
 natural appearance. My mind wavered — feelings of insensibility 
 fast stole upon me ; — and, concluding death's cold hand was about 
 to release my soul from its house of clay, in my thoughts I bade 
 adieu to the world with its sorrows : — a calm peace filled my 
 soul, and in a moment I was senseless. The next I knew, a stran- 
 ger stood behind me, supporting me in his arms. He had seen me 
 fall, and had taken me up, expecting I was dead. But much to the 
 surprise of myself and others, I so far recovered that I was able to 
 ride on a slow walk to my appointment, about an hour after the 
 time. I spoke from Matt. 24:44 ; " Therefore he ye also ready : for 
 in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh^ To me 
 this was a solemn meeting, and the audience seemed greatly affect- 
 ed. At the close, a young man desired me to pray with him, and 
 said he was resolved to seek the Lord. During prayer, he kneel- 
 ed in the presence of the assembly, and soon after found peace in 
 believing. In the after part of the day, though the travelling was 
 very bad, several hundred assembled in Eaton, to whom I spoke 
 with much freedom. Scores wept profusely, and sighed for salva- 
 tion; about forty arose for prayer. At a prayer meeting in the 
 evening, twenty-five promised, by giving me their hand as a sign, 
 to seek the Savior. 
 
68 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 Leaving Eaton, I held several meetings in Georgetown and 
 Kelson ; and in the latter place met with opposition from the wick- 
 ed. My labors in Nelson seemed to me almost lost ; but a minis- 
 ter who resided in that vicinity has since told me that he baptized 
 several, who dated their awakening at the meeting which was so 
 disturbed by the ungodly. How little does the sower know, when 
 he sows the seed, which shall prosper " this or that ; or w^hether 
 they both shall be alike good." Often the servant of Christ, after 
 dispensing the word, groans within himself and sighs, while he is 
 tempted to believe his labor has been in vain ; but the promise is 
 sure, " He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, 
 shall, doubtless, come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves 
 with him." Psalm 126:6. 
 
 On Thursday, I preached at Manlius Square, and during a stay 
 of three days, attended eight meetings in Manlius township. Some 
 were awakened, and eleven or twelve solemnly engaged to attend 
 to "life's great concern." Sunday, March 17, I held two meetings : 
 the latter in Gettysburg was a favored season. The next day, I 
 arrived at my father's, having been absent four months and six days. 
 In this time I had seen much of the glory of God, and his won- 
 derful works among the children of men. My Heavenly Father 
 had watched over me, and supplied my wants, and now permitted 
 me to return in peace, to my surviving parent. Blessed be the 
 Lord for all his tender mercies. 
 
 Having used the utmost economy in my expenses, and carefully 
 guarded the small pieces of money given me in different places, I 
 found enough remaining to pay for my horse ; and I felt to praise 
 God, and adore his providence in thus opening my way to travel 
 and publish salvation. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 69 
 
 CHAPTER VIL 
 
 The particulars of my travels and labors for nearly three months 
 after my return from New Hampshire. 
 
 During a stay of six days in Junius, I attended four meetings ; 
 then leaving home on Tuesday, March 26, went to Scipio, and 
 there saw my youngest brother ; and thence went to Genoa, where 
 my sister resided. While with them, my feelings were pained, and 
 my heart was sad, as their presence called to mind the change death 
 had made in my father's family ; and although I had good reason 
 to believe they were committed to the care of those who treated 
 them kindly, yet the reflection that they were motherless, almost 
 overpowered my feehngs. 
 
 Tarrying in Scipio and Genoa a few days, I held ten meetings, 
 in some of which the power of God was manifested. On Monday 
 evening, April 1st, I preached to a solemn and attentive assembly 
 in Dry den ; and the next day in Candor, where I enjoyed the sweet 
 presence of my Master. Some were awakened, and soon found 
 Jesus. 
 
 From Candor, I went to Owego creek, and attended four meet- 
 ings ; thence to Caroline and preached thrice. In the last meeting, 
 a number were seriously concerned for their eternal welfare, and 
 bowed the knee while we pleaded for mercy in their behalf. Some 
 were soon brought to sing praises to the Redeemer. On the even- 
 ing of the same day, I preached again in Candor, and the Spirit 
 gave utterance. The power of the Highest gladdened the hearts 
 of his saints, while sinners trembled under his mighty hand. It 
 was a time of mourning and weeping, of joy and gladness. Eight 
 were awakened, and with four other mourners, bowed for the first 
 time, at mercy's altar. Some of these were of the first respecta- 
 bility in Society, soon became happy and sung the praises of 
 Emmanuel. 
 
 Monday, April 8, I held a meeting in Owego ; then crossing the 
 Susquehanna, entered Pennsylvania, preached once, then returned 
 and spoke at the Gaskill ferry. Many appeared to receive the 
 word with gladness. Crossing the Susquehanna again, I preached 
 a second time in the village of Owego. A considerable assembly 
 was present, and some heard with candor, while others, like Gallio, 
 cared for none of these things. After this, I attended a meeting in 
 Berkshire ; and on the morning of the 10th, though very rainy, a 
 large number assembled near Owego creek. The Lord gave me a 
 message, and directed it to the hearts of the people. In the after- 
 
70 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 noon I preached again, and in the evening held a meeting in Car- 
 oHne. Here twenty-two covenanted to kneel and pray twice a day 
 for three weeks, and gave me their hands as a token. Many of 
 these seemed to be deeply sensible of their lost situation without 
 the Savior. 
 
 Thursday, I enjoyed a precious season in Candor while preach- 
 ing Christ. Seven told me, that since my last meeting in that 
 place they had found Jesus, and were happy in his love. In a 
 meeting the next day, I was especially favored with the Divine 
 presence, and heard seven declare their detennination to seek the 
 Lord. Saturday, I rode twenty-three miles to Berkshire, and in 
 the evening, spoke the word with freedom. Many appeared ten- 
 der, and four desired the prayers of Christians. 
 
 Sunday, April 14, I held three meetings ; one in Candor, and 
 two fifteen miles distant ; and the next day attended meeting in 
 Candor. Another soul had been brought into the liberty of the 
 gospel. After sermon, we walked to the stream, and a solemn con- 
 gregation crowded its banks. Elder G. baptized nine of the con- 
 verts, who came up out of the water happy, and rejoicing in God. 
 Sinners wept as they beheld the scene ; and soon after leaving the 
 water, one heavy laden soul came into the liberty of the gospel. 
 In the evening, the cries of penitents still saluted our ears. 
 
 Tuesday, I again spoke in the name of the Lord, and a few came 
 forward for prayers, some of whom appeared to be not far from 
 the kingdom of God. The day following, while speaking the word 
 on the Shendaken creek, the power of God descended on the peo- 
 ple. Those who had neglected the Savior, saw the awful nature 
 of sin ; and a view of its consequences caused many to sigh. Sev- 
 eral gave me their hands, desiring to be remembered at the throne 
 of grace. In the evening, I preached in Candor, and a number 
 of converts, for the first time, confessed Christ. 
 
 At a meeting during the revival in Candor, it was impressed on my 
 mind after preaching, to say to the people, that I believed a person 
 near me would die in three days. No sooner had I made the re- 
 mark, than several began to weep bitterly. On the next day, as I 
 was visiting from house to house, I came to an inn ; and a daugh- 
 ter of the landlord asked me if she was not the one concerning whom 
 I had the impression on the evening previous. I told her she was. 
 Immediately she wept aloud. I told her my impression did not re- 
 spect temporal death, but a death to sin. Then she appeared to be 
 reUeved, and said she hoped it would be so. At this instant her 
 father came in, in a great rage, and demanded whether I was the 
 boy that was around scaring folks to death by prophesying that they 
 would die. Before I had half answered his question, he chased 
 me out of his house. I entreated him to let me explain what I 
 
DAVID MARKS. 71 
 
 had said, but he refused. I then requested that I might pray in 
 the house ; this he refused also. I then asked if I might pray at 
 his door steps. He then chased me into the street. His wife and 
 daugliter wept and entreated him to forbear ; but in vain. I then 
 kneeled in the street before the house and prayed. He shut the 
 door and went out of sight ; but his wife and family opened the 
 windows and listened. After this I visited other families, and 
 found that great opposition was raised among the people and breth- 
 ren. Contempt was heaped upon me without reserve ; and some 
 said, " We will see whether he is a true prophet." Sometimes I 
 indeed trembled myself, and feared I had been mistaken. But two 
 or three hours before the three days were out, it pleased the Lord 
 to convert the young woman, and this generally stopped the mouths 
 of gainsay ers. I was informed that the landlord had a tenant who 
 was pious, and that by hearing his landlord say much against me, 
 he became doubtful whether I had been sent of the Lord. He had 
 practiced praying daily under a certain apple-tree in the orchard ; 
 and now he prayed to Him who made the jig-tree harren, if he had 
 sent me, to make that apple-tree which had just leaved out, " vfith- 
 er away." From that day the leaves withered, and in three weeks 
 they became dry. He said he sought to find a natural cause for 
 the dying of the tree, but could find none. 
 
 Thursday and Friday, April 18 and 19, having appointments, I 
 rode sixty miles in a storm of rain and snow to the town of Milo ; 
 and on the two days following, attended five meetings in Benton 
 and Penn Yan. Monday, 22d, I was much distressed with a pain 
 in my side ; but rode to an appointment in Jerusalem, and spoke 
 half an hour to an assembly that appeared much affected. At the 
 close of the interview, a young man came forward for prayer, soon 
 professed faith in the Redeemer, and became a bold witness for the 
 truth. In compliance with a request, I went to the house formerly 
 occupied by Jemima Wilkinson, who called herself, " The Univer- 
 sal Friend ;" and was kindly treated by the people living in the 
 house, to whom she bequeathed her property. I could not ascer- 
 tain that her followers (as is commonly reported) call her Christ. 
 They say, " The Spirit of Christ dwelt abundantly in the Friend." 
 They would not call her a woman or Jemima Wilkinson, nor apply 
 to her any of the personal pronouns of the feminine gender. They 
 are industrious, charitable, regular in their habits, much attached 
 to their own customs and sentiments, and treat all with ci^^lity and 
 tenderness. They disapprove of marriage. 
 
 On Tuesday, I was relieved of the pain in my side by the let- 
 ting of blood, and preached twice in Middlesex. The day follow- 
 ing, I held a meeting in Bristol, thirty miles distant, and the next 
 day preached in Richmond. Passing through Livonia, I preached 
 
72 MEMOIRS 0** 
 
 Christ in the villages of Geneseo and Moscow. I felt great bold- 
 ness in proclaiming free salvation, and in vindicating the doctrine, 
 that " God is no respecter of persons,^^ but will have all men to he 
 saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth. This doctrine pleas- 
 ed some, and offended others. One of my hearers, whose heart the 
 Lord opened, requested entertainment for me at a public house, 
 promising that he would pay the charge. But the landlord refus- 
 ed, declaring that a man who would preach such doctrine, should 
 have no place in his house. I understood also, that a man follow- 
 ed me with a horsewhip, to chastise me for preaching heresy, but 
 finally was persuaded to desist. 
 
 After leaving Moscow, I attended meetings in Perry, Leicester, 
 Wales, Boston and Eden, which closed my line of appointments 
 that had been long standing, and had employed my time for nearly 
 two months. 
 
 On Friday, May 3, I left Boston, and at five o'clock, P. M. 
 preached in Attica, forty miles distant ; at nine the next morning, 
 in Perry, twenty-two miles from Attica ; and at twelve the same 
 day in Moscow. In the latter place, twelve manifested a desire 
 for the one thing needful. The Lord gave me much freedom in 
 speaking to an assembly in the evening at Livonia, and the hearts 
 of many appeared to be touched. After the close of the meeting, 
 I rode eight miles the same evening, in a cold rain ; and in conse- 
 quence, found my health much impaired. 
 
 Sunday, May 5, I preached in the A. M. to a people in Bristol, 
 that seemed to hear as for eternity ; and in the P. M. to several 
 hundred in the north part of the town. I felt to bless God for the 
 assistance of his Holy Spirit, and the solemnity that reigned. At 
 the hour of five, I preached standing on a stone, in the open street, 
 to about three hundred people in Canandaigua village. Some ap- 
 peared to receive the word ; others cared not for the things which 
 belong to their eternal peace. At ten the next morning, standing 
 on a stump where two ways met, I preached in Gorham to about 
 forty, who seemed to hear for the judgment day ; and at one 
 o'clock, P. M., spoke again in the street, to about two hundred, 
 near Federal hollow. In this meeting the Lord gave me great 
 freedom, and directed the truth to the hearts of the hearers. At 
 five o'clock, P. M., I spoke to an assembly in Middlesex. The 
 next day I rode twenty miles, and attended three meetings ; and 
 the day following preached twice. Thursday, after travelling 
 twenty-four miles, and preaching in Penn Yan and Benton, I 
 found myself quite ill, and unable to attend my evening a-ppoint- 
 ment in Milo. The next day, being somewhat strengthened, I 
 travelled twenty miles and held one meeting. 
 
HJLVItk MJLRKS. 73 
 
 On Saturday and Sunday, the 11th and 12th of May, the Ben- 
 ton Quarterly Meeting was held in Junius. I was still very fee- 
 ble, but being requested, I spoke to the people on the Sabbath, 
 from Acts 17:30 : " And the times of this ignorance God winked 
 at, hut now commandeth all men everywhere to repent'* 
 
 I now found my illness to be occasioned by the measles ; a dis- 
 order of which I had not before had the least suspicion. As I had 
 been constantly meeting with people, a large number had taken the 
 disorder, and I felt much tried on the account ; but as I could not 
 find that any, who took it of me, died in consequence of it, I was 
 much relieved. After meeting closed, with difficulty, I walked 
 two miles to my father's, was confined one week, and consequently un- 
 able to attend my appointments, which extended to the west one hun- 
 dred miles. This was the first time I had disappointed congrega- 
 tions on account of illness. Large numbers collected in many 
 places ; and though unable to be with them in body, I was with 
 them in ' spirit, and earnestly prayed that Jesus would be one in 
 their midst. 
 
 Monday, May 20, having recovered from my illness, I set out 
 for the Owego Quarterly Meeting, which was to be held in Can- 
 dor, on the 25th and 26th of the month. I tarried two days by 
 the way, in Dryden, and preached the word. At the Quarterly 
 Meeting a good season was enjoyed, and on the Sabbath, several 
 were baptized. 
 
 Monday, Heft for the Holland Purchase, and in five days travelled 
 one hundred and ninety miles, to Concord. In this town the Erie 
 Quarterly Meeting commenced its session on Saturday, June 1, 
 1822. A grove was prepared with seats for the people, and about 
 one hundred assembled. After some preaching and exhortation, 
 I addressed the assembly about three quarters of an hour ; but 
 enjoying little liberty, I took my seat under considerable depres- 
 sion of spirit, and soon the exercises closed. In the evening, a 
 preacher, who heard my discourse, observed that he did not think 
 it was my duty to preach, and that he was satisfied my preaching 
 had done no good. After replying that I felt I had not a praying 
 audience, he said he did not think I had ; that he did not pray for 
 me, for he thought me out of the place of duty. Feeling con- 
 scious it had been my intention to walk in the path of humble obe- 
 dience, a degree of peace comforted my heart. 
 
 Monday, I preached in Zoar and Concord. My soul was happy, 
 the Lord blessed his word, and in one of these meetings, five awak- 
 ened souls came forward for prayer. At five o'clock, P. M. the 
 preacher above mentioned held a meeting in Boston. After the 
 conclusion of his sermon, I gave an exhortation, and then accom- 
 panied him to Elder R. Carey's. On resuming the subject of for- 
 7 
 
74 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 mer conversation, he said to me, " Either you or I have not the 
 spirit of Christ ; — It is pride that causes you to travel so extensive- 
 ly, — you wish to get a great name,'' S^c, — " curiosity brings the 
 people out to hear you, and after preaching tivo or three times in a 
 place, you cannot get so large a congregation as at first." To these 
 remarks I made little reply ; for being confident, that, in some 
 things at least, he labored under a mistake, they affected me lit- 
 tle. 
 
 But as I awoke next morning, a gloom veiled my mind. I arose 
 and without taking any food, proceeded on foot, through a severe 
 rain, to Eden, where I had an appointment. Wliile travelling, the 
 remarks of him whom I believed a father in Israel, and to whom I 
 had looked for encouragement, rushed upon me. And reflecting 
 that his labors had been greatly blessed to the conversion of souls — 
 that he was highly esteemed, and considered a spiritual preacher, 
 sore temptations beset me. Thinking I might have been deceived 
 respecting duty, and have engaged in a work to which God had 
 not called me, my faith began to fail — unbelief increased — the 
 powers of darkness bound my soul, and all my hope seemed blast- 
 ed. My distress and trials were past expression, and unparalleled 
 by any thing that I had hitherto experienced. I turned aside into 
 a wood, prostrated myself on the wet ground, and poured forth my 
 grief in sighs and tears. Perhaps I never came nearer sinking 
 under trials, and vowing, like Jeremiah, no more to speak in the 
 name of the Lord, than I did at this time. I lamented that I had 
 any appointments, and concluded that after attending those I had 
 already given out, I would make no more ; and in case there was 
 no change in my mind, would tell the people that I had been de- 
 ceived and should preach no more. O how important, that fathers 
 in Israel be exceedingly careful that they hurt ndl the oil and the 
 wine. Young preachers, and those who are inexperienced, can- 
 not, at the best, exercise the wisdom and skill of more experi- 
 enced ministers. They may often err in judgment as to duty — 
 they may often err in the selection of a subject, and in the explan- 
 ation of Scripture, as possibly / might in this case, and probably 
 may have done at some other times. Yet as these errors are al- 
 most inseparable from the improvement of young and weak 
 gifts, how necessary it is that elder brethren deal tenderly 
 with such; striving with gentleness to admonish and correct 
 them, when they see them in error. A few words of discour- 
 agement from one of age and experience, may forever destroy the 
 xjonfidence and faith of the tender mind. Experience lamentably 
 proves the hurt that is done tender minds by harsh treatment and 
 severe reproofs from the fathers and mothers in Israel. Instead of 
 its disposing them to trust more in the Lord, it generally discour- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 75 
 
 ages and disheartens them, and frequently causes their faith to fail. 
 Omay the Lord give his followers wisdom to become nursing fa- 
 thers and nursing mothers in Israel, and gently lead the children 
 along in the paths of duty. I arose and went to my appointment 
 with a gloomy mind, and dreaded to meet the people. On enter- 
 ing the assembly, I remained in silence a few minutes, thinking to 
 tell them I had been deceived with regard to my duty ; but in an in- 
 stant, former experience and former evidences of the duty Grod requir- 
 ed of me, rose clearly to view ; and with them, peace flowed into my 
 soul. My doubts fled — and reflecting that " Great men are not 
 ahcays wise ;" neither are good men always perfect, I was convinced 
 my duty might be better known to myself than to any other erring mor- 
 tal ; and, though saying in my heart with the apostle, " Who is 
 sufficient for these things?" I arose and commenced speaking. 
 The word of the Lord was like fire shut up in my bones, and his 
 power attended it to the hearts of the people. Sinners wept, 
 saints rejoiced, and my soul was happy in God. Seven were 
 awakened and bowed before the Lord, while we pleaded for mercy. 
 I next preached with much freedom in Hamburg, Attica, and 
 again in Eden. 
 
 CHAPTER Vni. 
 
 My Journey to Ohio. 
 
 For some time I had felt that it was my duty to go to Oliio, and 
 declare the glad tidings of salvation to the inhabitants of that new 
 section of country* And having made such preparations for my 
 journey as were practicable, I left my horse with a friend in Ham- 
 burgj went to Black Rock on Wednesday, June 12, and engaged 
 a pg^sage in a schooner to Portland, Ohio. In the morning we em- 
 barked, and sailing up Niagara, anchored opposite Buffalo till 
 about four o'clock, P. M., when we weighed anchor, and before a 
 gentle breeze sailed up the lake. The sun shone beautifully, and 
 the waves rolled gently, as the land of my friends and acquaint- 
 ance gradually receded. Placing myself at the stem, I fixed my 
 eyes on Buffalo, till niglit rendered every object indistinct ; and I 
 said adieu to many precious brethren and agreeable acquaintances, 
 who have often administered to my necessities and soothed my sor- 
 rows. Then turning my thoughts to the land in which I should 
 soon be a stranger, tears stole down my cheeks. But reflecting 
 upon the care my Heavenly Father has over his childi*en, I retir- 
 
76 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ed to the cabin, and soon sunk into a gentle slumber for the first 
 time on the water, and passed the night in a calm and sweet re- 
 pose. In the morning we found we had made ninety jniles ; the 
 sun again shone pleasantly, and the bosom of the lake was peace- 
 ful. At the south stretched the Pennsylvania shores ; at the north 
 appeared a vast expanse of water. While gazing on the sublime 
 and beautiful prospect before me, my heart was filled with adora- 
 tion. A calm succeeding, we advanced but little ; and on Satur- 
 day were still in sight of Pennsylvania. Being requested, I preach- 
 ed on deck from John 3:14, 15. Although the crew seemed to 
 listen attentively, the word appeared to have little place in their 
 hearts. This day I ate the last of my provisions ; the weather be- 
 came unpleasant, and the lake that a little time before was almost 
 unruffled, now became very tempestuous. 
 
 Monday, June 17, the wind and storm abated. Our voyage 
 having been longer than we expected, and the wind being still con- 
 trary, the captain of the vessel, notwithstanding his engagement, 
 now refused to take me to Portland ; and after receiving my last 
 money for the passage, he set me with four others on the peninsula 
 west of Sandusky bay, and six miles opposite Portland. Here 
 was a light-house, and besides the man who kept it, there were no 
 inhabitants on this part of the peninsula. It was now after sun- 
 set, and during the last forty hours I had eaten but one meal, which 
 was given me by the captain of the vessel. The man who kept 
 the light-house, had but little provision with him, having been dis- 
 appointed of an expected recruit in consequence of the unfavora- 
 ble wind. So without tasting any food, I lay down on the floor 
 and closed my eyes to sleep, hoping to forget my hunger. But 
 recollections of the kind brethren in New York, who had often fed 
 and lodged me with willing and joyful hearts, together with the 
 painful contrast of my present situation, crowded into my mind, 
 and drove slumber from my eyes. When the men who land- 
 ed with me had fallen asleep, the keeper, remembering the poor 
 boy that had come far from a father's house to preach the gospel, 
 brought me a cracker and half a pint of milk. This was a deli- 
 cious morsel, and I received it with thanksgiving. Next morning 
 the sun rose with splendor, and I walked out to view the surround- 
 ing scenery. The waters of Erie lay on the east, west and north ; 
 south, the prospect was bounded by a wood ; across the bay, Port- 
 land appeared in sight. But I knew no way to go thither, for 
 there was no vessel on this part of the peninsula, and I could not 
 go by land, as the distance was sixty miles, through a marshy wil- 
 derness. Going into the top of the light-house, I looked eastward, 
 and, though my hunger was oppressive, and I could neither see my 
 native land, nor any place where I had formerly travelled, yet I 
 
DAVID MARKS. 77 
 
 found Christ to be precious, and his love filled my soul. Two of 
 the men who landed with me had each of them a rifle ; and going 
 this morning into a wood, they killed a fawn, which we cooked and 
 ate without seasoning, or any other kind of food ; and it seemed a 
 delicious morsel as ever was tasted. After this, while walking in 
 the wood for meditation, I came suddenly to a prairie, on which 
 the grass that was two or three feet high, was gently waving over 
 the extended plain. Here nature displayed its lovely charms. I 
 sat down under the shade — gazed on its beauties — and praised their 
 Author. 
 
 The next day, being weary of waiting for a passage, one of the 
 men and myself caulked an old skiff, that had been washed upon 
 the shore, and set off for Portland. The skiff was so small, that 
 our weight sunk it nearly to the top ; and it leaked so fast, that it 
 kept me busy in lading out the water with my shoe, which I used 
 for want of something better. After rowing along the shore about 
 two miles, we changed our course directly across the bay for Port- 
 land. The wind was against us ; and when about one mile from 
 the shore, the waves ran three or four feet high, and frequently 
 came over the top of the skiff. As we could not swim, we now 
 began to view ourselves in danger ; but having no wish to return, 
 we endeavored to make our way through wind and waves. Everj' 
 moment our situation grew more perilous. The wind increased, 
 so that we made but little progress ; and we determined to return 
 if possible. On turning the skiff about, we were in danger of fall- 
 ing into the troughs ; but we succeeded so well, that not more than 
 a pail full of water ran into our vessel ; and we reached the shore 
 at Sand Point, about two miles from the light-house. I was glad 
 to get on the land again, though I suffered with hunger, in addition 
 to being both wet and cold. Nature itself seemed to frown ; the 
 sky was lowering ; the cold north-west wind rustled among the 
 trees, and the water in billows dashed the shore. Having eaten 
 nothing but fresh venison, without salt or other provisions, my stom- 
 ach became disordered, and brought on weakness and stupidity. I 
 walked along the shore ; and while my former condition, when I 
 enjoyed plenty beneath the parental roof, or among kind brethren, 
 was contrasted with my present situation, in which I had not even 
 the privilege of entering the houses of strangers, I wept bitterly- 
 Falling on my knees, I called on the name of the Lord. My soul 
 was soon happy and joyful ; and, though I knew no way to get 
 off the peninsula, or after getting off, to succeed among strangers 
 without money, I repented not my having come into this state. 
 
 Soon we met with a man who came to the peninsula in search 
 of cattle, and was waiting the arrival of a vessel. I gladly warm- 
 ed myself by the fire he had kindled ; and he gave us some bread: 
 7* 
 
78 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 and pork ; but my stomach was so out of order, I could eat little. 
 In the afternoon we were gladdened by the sight of a vessel^ 
 coming from Portland ; and on its arrival, we solicited a passage. 
 As their business would not permit them to land us at Portland, 
 they took us across the bay to Cedar Point. Taldng our portman- 
 teaus on our shoulders, we walked nine miles on the beach of the 
 lake, before we came to any house ; and being very thirsty, were 
 glad to drink some poor water. After travelling three miles fur- 
 ther into Milan, I found brethren, who received me affectionately. 
 Blessed be the Lord for all his goodness. 
 
 In this town, a Freewill Baptist church had been gathered three 
 years before, by Elder J. N. Hinkley ; and from that time it had 
 been visited by only two or three preachers of the Freewill Bap- 
 tist order ; yet, they had continued their meetings, and in a good 
 degree maintained a gospel walk. Thursday, June 20, I had the 
 privilege of preaching to them. 
 
 After this, I attended meetings with some appearance of success 
 in the towns of New-London, Clarksfield, and Danbury. In the 
 latter, a backslider, at the age of seventy, was called to exchange 
 worlds. When viewing himself about to go into eternity, he re- 
 marked, that although he did not then enjoy religion, he knew he 
 once had ; and therefore it was impossible that he should be lost ; 
 for he doubted not, that all who had once experienced pardoning 
 grace, would be saved. So, quieting his mind thus in his last mo- 
 ments, to all human appearance, he left the world without concern. 
 In compliance with a request, I preached the funeral sermon. Soon 
 after the people had collected, two sons of the deceased entered 
 the house. They came to visit their ancient sire, ignorant of the 
 sad tale. But disappointment and anguish filled their hearts, and 
 their lamentations rendered the scene still more solemn and affect- 
 ing. We followed him to the silent tomb, the house appointed for 
 all living ; then each went his way, and the mourners returned to 
 their habitation, weeping. 
 
 Elder Collins of New York, and myself, appointed a general 
 meeting in Milan on the 29th and 30th of June. Brethren attend- 
 ed from three small churches, in Milan, Greenfield and Clarks- 
 field; which were the only Freewill Baptist churches in this part 
 of the country. On the first day, our number was about twenty ; 
 and truly, the form of the Son of God was in our midst, to the 
 great joy of our hearts. A Quarterly Meeting was this day or- 
 ganized, called Huron Quarterly Meeting. On the Sabbath, about 
 one hundred and fifty met in a barn. I spoke to them from Isa. 
 33:16, 17 : " He shall dwell on high : his place of defence shall he 
 the munitions of rocks,^' ^c. Being requested to preach again in 
 the afternoon, I spoke from Jeremiah 17:11 : "As the partridge sit- 
 
I>AVID MARKS. 79 
 
 teth on eggs, and hatcheth them not ; so he that getteth riches, and 
 not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his 
 end shall be a fool." Elder Collins delivered a discourse from 
 Heb. 4:9 : " There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God." 
 We then ate the bread, and drank the cup in remembrance of our 
 Lord's body that was broken, and his blood that was shed for us. 
 Several animating exhortations followed ; many tears were shed ; 
 and many, we trust, felt the need of salvation, and went away sor- 
 rowful. July 2 and 3, I attended meetings in Milan. The four 
 days following were spent at a Methodist camp meeting in Flor- 
 ence, Huron county, in which I enjoyed the privilege of preaching 
 once from the stand, and of speaking several times at prayer meet- 
 ings. During this period some were hopefully converted. Mon- 
 day, July 8th, a Methodist brother in Brunswick, kindly lent me a 
 horse to go to the south part of the stlate. I preached during the 
 week in Greenfield, Plymouth, Brunswick and Fitchville. In the 
 latter place the power of God was among the people. Seventeen 
 engaged, by giving me their hands, to commence immediately seek- 
 ing the salvation of their souls. A revival followed this meeting, 
 in which fifteen or twenty were converted to God. 
 
 Tuesday, July 16, I preached in Greenwich, after which a 
 church was organized. In the evening, I spoke to a very attentive 
 assembly in Plymouth, ten miles distant ; and the next evening 
 preached in the court house at Mansfield, thirty miles further south. 
 The congregation was large and solemn. Thursday and Friday, 
 I travelled fifty-five miles to Raccoon, and there attended worship. 
 On Saturday, I rode thirty miles to a Methodist camp-meeting. 
 Here, I spent three days, and had the privilege of preaching once, 
 which was at midnight ; and of exhorting and praying several times. 
 Resuming my journey I passed through Chilicothe, thence down 
 the Sciota river to Portsmouth, situated on the Ohio river at the 
 mouth of the Sciota. 
 
 The country through which I passed was interesting to the stran- 
 ger. For two hundred miles it is level and fertile ; and by the 
 way, are many large farms in beautiful order. At one place, 
 where I called on a farmer, I noticed the largest field of corn that I 
 had ever seen, and asked the number of acres it contained ; he re- 
 plied, " one hundred and sixteen ;" and remarked that he had two 
 hundred acres of corn then growing on his farm ; and that the year 
 before, he raised ten thousand bushels. However, this could hard- 
 ly be called a " land of brooks and springs," for in general water 
 was both scarce and poor. 
 
 On this journey I had an interview with a minister of consider- 
 able talents, belonging to a sect who called themselves Separate 
 Baptists ; but are denominated by some, Wash Feet Baptists ; be- 
 
80 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 cause they believe washing the saints' feet to be an ordinance of 
 the gospel, and make its omission a bar to communion. He in- 
 formed me that they held to free salvation, the freedom of the hu- 
 man tvill, the fnal perseverance of the saints, and what is called 
 close communion, I understood there were several churches of 
 this connexion, perhaps twenty — several able ministers — and that 
 they formerly seceded from the Calvinistic Baptists. 
 
 At Portsmouth, I found Elder Rufus Cheney, who removed 
 from New York to this place six or seven years before. He in- 
 formed me there were no Freewill Baptists in this region at that 
 time ; and that he lived several months, as it were alone, frequently 
 preaching, but with little appearance of success. At length he 
 saw a powerful revival, in which many learned to sing the sweet 
 songs of Zion. Seven first united to take the Scriptures for their 
 rule of faith and practice ; their number increased, until it now 
 amounted to one hundred and twelve. I spent five days among 
 them, preaching the word of the Lord, and enjoyed some good sea- 
 sons. 
 
 During my stay in Portsmouth, I sent an appointment across 
 the Ohio river, into Kentucky; but when the time came, the boat 
 used for crossing the river was absent. The stream, I think, was 
 about half a mile wide ; and as I was unwilling to disappoint the 
 people, I began to contrive a way to cross ; and going alone down 
 the river side, after an hour's labor, I succeeded in getting an old 
 canoe from among the flood wood, that had an opening in the bot- 
 tom, from end to end, nearly an inch in width. As the water ap- 
 peared to be shallow, and the current gentle, I thought, with little 
 difficulty, I should soon reach the opposite shore, and accordingly 
 set off my little bark. Takmg a board for a paddle, and placing 
 another across the canoe, I seated myself, when my little vessel, 
 sinking in the water, filled within two inches of the top. Thus I 
 ventured forward ; but soon found myself in deep, agitated water ; 
 and casting my eyes toward the shores, they seemed to be in rapid 
 flight. My little bark whirled round and round, and I wished my- 
 self on the land, thinking this, perhaps, was an imprudent step. 
 Resolving, however, not to despair, I endeavored to gain the Ken- 
 tucky shore. After floating down the stream half a mile, I came 
 Avithin one or two rods of the bank, where the water -was very 
 deep and the current swift. A quantity of flood wood was lodged a 
 little below me, and I could see no way to avoid falling amongst it ; 
 but happily a stick, projecting from the bottom of the river nearly 
 to the surface of the water, fastened in the bottom of the canoe, 
 and held it. Presently I caught a rail that was floating down the 
 stream, and placing one end of it on the canoe, and the other end 
 upon a log, walked on it to the shore. A large number, chiefly 
 
DAVID MARKS. 81 
 
 people of color, assembled, and I felt that Heaven assisted me in 
 preaching. Their tears flowed freely, and my soul rejoiced for the 
 privilege of pointing Afric's injured sons to the Lamb of God, 
 who is able and willing to sanctify their wrongs to their eternal 
 good. Several, apparently much affected, came forward for pray- 
 er, and promised to seek the Lord. Nearly the whole assembly 
 kneeled in time of prayer : and I was informed this was the cus- 
 tom of the country. It is indeed but a respectful custom, when 
 God is addressed by his creature, little, sinful man. Duty demand- 
 mg my immediate return, I obtained assistance in getting my ca- 
 noe to the shore, and in preparing a paddle ; and after floating 
 down the stream another half mile, reached the opposite shore in. 
 safety. 
 
 Monday, July 29, proceeding twenty-five miles up the Ohio 
 river, I held a meeting in Raccoon. The next day I went twenty- 
 five miles to Rutland, and there met brethren Rothburn and Hatch, 
 who had been Freewill Baptist preachers in New England sever- 
 al years previous to this time. When they came to this country, 
 they found Elder Stedman, an influential preacher of their own 
 order, happily engaged in the work of the Lord. Elder Stedman 
 removed from New England about the year 1805, established sev- 
 eral churches, and formed a Quarterly Meeting ; which became so 
 large, that it was divided into two, and these two organized a Year- 
 ly Meeting. Elders R. and H. became fellow laborers with Elder 
 S. in the precious cause of Christ, till the parched ground became 
 a pool, and the thirsty land, springs of water. The church was 
 nourished by the dews of Heaven, and the wilderness became vocal 
 with the praises of Emmanuel. But soon the scene changed. The 
 circumstances as related to me were as follows : 
 
 At a session of their Yearly Meeting, one who had been consid- 
 ered a father in Zion, came into the assembly, fell on his knees, 
 and, to the surprise of all the congregation, confessed, with bursts 
 of grief, a crime of v/hich even his most violent enemies had not 
 suspected him to be guilty ; and which, but for this confession, 
 might have remained a secret till the Judgment. The assembly 
 were astonished ; the hearts of his brethren were broken with 
 grief: and even his enemies, who had formerly sought occasion 
 against him, now wept profusely, and scarcely a dry face was to 
 be seen in the whole assembly. Deep sorrow sat on the counte- 
 nance of every friend ; and some of the preachers wept the whole 
 night. A little before day, the penitent came to their lodgings, 
 kneeled at their bed-side, and after weeping a while, he asked them 
 if they could forgive him. They said they could as to personal 
 feelings — ^but still they wept again, for the occasion that had been 
 given for the enemies of the cross, to speak reproachfully. The 
 
82 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 wicked now triumphed ; and among the brethren there was a divis- 
 ion ; some thought they should forgive him, and let him retain his 
 eldership ; others, though willing to forgive, were of opinion 
 that his eldership ought to be taken away. Not far from this 
 time, they were visited by several talented preachers from Miami 
 and Kentucky, belonging to tlie sect called " New Lights." The 
 Yearly Meeting was in a rocking and tried state. The preachers 
 being mostly young, and little used to such trials as now assailed 
 them, felt unable to sustain the shock. The visiting preachers pro- 
 posed a union with their denomination. The parties held a con- 
 ference to learn the existing difference of opinion ; and after the 
 investigation, concluded there was no essential difference, — that 
 they should be one people, — and accordingly they united. Some 
 of the churches, however, and many individuals in the Yearly 
 Meeting, were much dissatisfied ; and for several years would no 
 acknowledge the union. 
 
 I preached with them once or twice ; and on "Wednesday, July 
 31, commenced my return to New York. On Sunday, August 4, 
 hearing the New Lights held a camp meeting at Mount Vernon, I 
 rode fifteen miles in the morning, and entered the camp ground, a 
 stranger to all. My garments were worn nearly to rags — much 
 soiled by my late travels in the heat and dust — and I had no change ; 
 still I believed duty called me to speak to this people. Having the 
 impression that an introduction somewhat singular, would in this 
 case render the hearts of the people more accessible, I gave my 
 portmanteau to the first man I met, went upon the stand uninvited, 
 and took a seat without speaking, or fixing my eyes on any one, 
 till the close of a discourse which a preacher was then delivering. 
 Then I asked the privilege of addressing the assembly. The 
 preachers and people looked at me with apparent suspicion ; and 
 after a little hesitation, a minister called for my credentials. As I 
 left the stand to search for my portmanteau which contained my let- 
 ters, they called me back, and said, that after an intermission of 
 half an hour, my request should be granted. As the " New 
 Lights" had been much persecuted, I understood some supposed 
 me to be a wicked lad, that had been sent by their enemies to im- 
 pose on them ; but they hoped my attempt to preach would be in- 
 strumental of my awakening. The whole assembly watched me 
 very closely till I retired for prayer. When the time of intermis- 
 sion had expired, even before the people had assembled, I went 
 upon the preachers' stand alone, and without ceremony, falling on 
 my knees, began to pray. The Spirit made intercession and the 
 windows of heaven seemed to be open. "NYhen I arose, the peo- 
 ple, who were in number about one thousand, stood thick around 
 the stand, and many countenances were bathed in tears. A text 
 
DAVID MARKS. 83 
 
 occurred to my recollection ; Num. 10:29, " We are journeying 
 unto the place of which the Lord said, I will give it you : come 
 thou with us, and we will do thee good ; for the Lord hath spoken 
 good concerning LsraeV In the illustration of this passage, I no- 
 ticed the analogy, first, between the house of Jacob and the true 
 Israel, or heirs according to promise ; secondly, between Moses, 
 the leader of ancient Israel, and Christ, the leader of the true Is- 
 rael; thirdly, between this journey to the promised land, and the 
 Christian's journey to the rest promised to the true Israel ; and 
 fourthly, the analogy between the good promised by Moses, and 
 that which is offered by Christ. The Lord showed me favor, and 
 enabled me to speak an hour and a half with great freedom. The 
 assembly stood during the whole time, and many were powerfully 
 wrought upon by the Spirit ; saints rejoiced, some shouted, and 
 tears rolled down the cheeks of hundreds. Some powerful exhor- 
 tations were added, and the table of the Lord was spread before 
 the assembly. 
 
 Before the meeting closed, which was on Monday morning, sev- 
 eral were hopefully converted. During this time, various persons 
 put small pieces of money in my hand, which amounted in all to 
 ten dollars ; and a merchant gave me cloth and trimmings for a 
 pair of pantaloons. O, how kindly has the Lord provided for his 
 unprofitable servant ! 
 
 In compliance with the request of a gentleman in Mt. Vernon 
 village, I called at his house. His wife met me at the door with 
 her face bathed in tears, and giving me her hand she afi'ectionately 
 said, " Glory to God, for what Lhave experienced this morning. I 
 was bred in a formal religion, and yesterday went to meeting an 
 unbeliever in experimental religion. But while you were speaking 
 God sent an arrow to my heart, and from that moment I have felt 
 the horrors and pains of hell till this morning ; and, bless the Lord, 
 I have just now found peace that is beyond expression." Her hus- 
 band was a professor, and we had a season of rejoicing. He in- 
 formed me that several in the village proposed making a contribu- 
 tion for me. But I felt rich and happy, and after expressing my 
 thanks for their kindness, told him I had enough. 
 
 My next meeting was in Jefferson. It commenced in the after- 
 noon, and continued till midnight. The power of God was present, 
 and eternity seemed unveiled ; several were awakened, some wan- 
 derers confessed their backslidings, and the praises of three happy 
 converts crowned the interview. 
 
 Wednesday, Aug. 7, I arrived at brother Reynolds* in Bruns- 
 wick, Huron county, and returned his horse, which I had rode 
 about six hundred miles. He would take no pecuniary reward. 
 Pursuing my journey, I attended meetings in Brunswick, Brown- 
 
84 MEMOms 05" 
 
 son, Plymouth, Greenwich, Fitehville, Clarksfield, Milan and Port- 
 land, sometimes called Sandusky city. In some of these my soul 
 was greatly blessed, and the seasons appeared to be profitable to 
 the people. 
 
 On Thursday, the 15th, I crossed Sandusky bay and visited a 
 small settlement, a few miles from the light-house, where I was de-' 
 tained in coming to this state. I was informed there had been no 
 preaching on the peninsula for more than a year and a half. The 
 Lord gave me freedom, and solemnity reigned in our midst. After 
 sermon, I began speaking to individuals ; but looking around I per- 
 ceived the greater part had left me, and were looking in at 
 the doors* and windows, where they could hear and avoid being 
 spoken to themselves. Some appeared tender, others inflexibly 
 hard. I dined in the place, and, as a friend afterward informed 
 me, the woman of the house hurried the company while I was 
 washing without, to take seats at the table lest I should give 
 thanks. 
 
 Friday, I returned to Portland, and waited the arrival of a ves- 
 sel to take a passage to Buffalo. The steamboat did not arrive at 
 the expected hour, and word soon came that it had suffered in a 
 gale of wind, and was laid up for repairs. Information was given 
 me, that several had expressed doubts as to the correctness of a re- 
 mark made in my late visit, saying, that I never preached written 
 sermons. They were suspicious the discourse I delivered to them 
 had been committed to memory ; and to prove me, desired that I 
 would preach from a text they should give me. I told him they 
 might notify a meeting and give me a text as I arose to speak. 
 Nearly two hours before the appointed time, Mr. Marsh, keeper of 
 the steamboat hotel, sent a note, requesting me to preach from the 
 following text : Gal. 3:8, " And the Scripture, foreseeing that God 
 would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel 
 unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed.*' I re- 
 tired to a grove, spent a few minutes in prayer, then returned and 
 anxiously waited the appointed hour. About all the village assem- 
 bled, and after reading my text and making some introductory re- 
 marks, I noticed, first, the Scripture promises of the Messiah ; sec- 
 ondly, their fulfillment., and the manner in which all nations are 
 Messed in the seed of Abraham ; and, thirdly, the faith through 
 which the heathen are justified. The fear of man was removed, 
 and my soul led out into the deep things of God. The awakening 
 influence of the Holy Spirit was manifest in the assembly, and 
 many faces were bedewed with tears. Mr. Marsh, with two or three 
 others, made me a present of nearly three dollars. 
 
 Aug. 17, finding no opportuni y for a passage on the lake, and 
 hearing that on Tuesday following, a vessel was to go from Cleave- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 85 
 
 land, a port sixty miles distant, I left Portland at the setting of the 
 sun, with my portmanteau on my shoulder, and in a day and a half 
 walked to Cleaveland, when to my disappointment I found the ves- 
 sel had sailed an hour before my arrival. After walking thirty- 
 seven miles from Portland, on the beach of the lake, sinking much 
 of the way to my ankles in the sand, a stranger overtook me, who 
 said he had heard me preach, and offered to carry my portmanteau 
 to Cleaveland. It contained my money, watch, and other articles 
 to the amount of $40. My weariness made me gladly accept his 
 offer. During my haste in the latter part of this journey, I had 
 not allowed myself time to eat, and the cravings of my hunger 
 were now severe. As I could find nothing of the man with my 
 portmanteau, neither could procure any thing to eat, I went out 
 from the town a little distance, sat down by the way side in the 
 rain, anxiously watching for the stranger. To my joy he made 
 his appearance in about two hours, and with thankfulness I sup- 
 plied my wants. 
 
 I tarried in Cleaveland one day, and on Aug. 20th, I set sail in 
 the Nicator for Buffalo. We had a fair wind, and a prosperous 
 voyage ; but the company were profane and wicked. Thursday, 
 I landed at Buffalo, went to Hamburg where I had left my horse, 
 and the six days following attended meetings in Hamburg, Eden, 
 Boston, Concord, and EUicottsville, Some of these seasons were 
 refreshing. Several, who had been living without God and with- 
 out hope in the world, w^ere made to feel their poverty, and desir- 
 ed the prayers of Christians in their behalf. After this, I visited 
 Elder J. Folsom, of Boston, who w^as nigh unto death. To me it 
 was an impressive and memorable season. Elder F. had been a 
 faithful and spiritual watchman. I mourned in the certain expec- 
 tation, that soon he would leave the care of Zion ; and as I looked 
 upon the companion of his youth, and their numerous family, all my 
 sympathies were awakened. His soul was happy, and he rejoiced 
 in God. With the firm and blessed hope of meeting him in the 
 land of immortality and eternal bliss, I pressed his pallid hand, and 
 bade him adieu.* 
 
 From Boston I went to Attica, where the second session of the 
 Holland Purchase Y. M. commenced on the 31st of August, 1822. 
 Several discourses were delivered, and followed by animating ex- 
 hortations. A comfortable season was enjoyed, but nothing special 
 occurred. In Elders' conference, a resolve was passed, advising 
 our preachers and brethren not to connect with masonic lodges. I 
 
 * A few months after this, Elder Folsom left the world in the triumphs of that faith he 
 had BO oOen recommended to others His funeral sermon was preached by Elder R. 
 Carey, one of his spiritual children. His death was lamented by hundreds of the church 
 of Christ, but they mourned not as those without hope. 
 
 8 
 
m> MEMOIRS OF 
 
 did not vote for this resolve with the conference, because one of 
 our preachers, whom I thought one of the best, was a free mason; 
 and I concluded if masonry was not good he would come out from 
 it 
 
 After the close of the Yearly Meeting, I continued my journey, 
 toward Junius, and on the way preached once in Covington, thrice 
 in Richmond, once in Gorham, thrice in Benton, twice in Milo, 
 and attended eight meetings in Wayne. The Lord blessed some 
 of these seasons with his presence ; and I trust some fruits of the 
 same will appear in the day of eternity. In Milo, many seemed 
 resolved to submit to Jesus, and several desired the prayers of 
 saints. 
 
 On Monday, Sept. 9, I arrived at my father's dwelling, but found 
 it empty. My father was absent on a visit to his relatives in Con- 
 necticut, and my two eldest brothers were living in an adjacent 
 neighborhood. As there was no friend to welcome my return, I 
 walked out over the places that had been familiar to me, to indulge 
 the solitude of my feelings, and reflect upon the changing scenes of 
 time. Here was the place where I mourned my wretched state, 
 when unreconciled to God. There, beneath the shade of that wood, 
 I supplicated Heaven's mercy ; and there despaired, fearing my 
 day of grace was over, and my state unalterably fixed. But O the 
 change, since that distressing hour ! Bless the Lord, that my soul 
 ever experienced it. Here, when the * wo' was laid on me if I 
 preached not the gospel, I walked on the banks of this little riv- 
 ulet, and wept, saying, ^' Lord, lama child, how can I go ?" There, 
 while on my knees, beneath the boughs of that white- wood tree, I 
 resolved to obey the Lord, and be an exile and a wanderer in the 
 earth to preach the gospel of Christ. Here stood the dwelling in 
 which I bowed, on the morning of my departure, with my parents, 
 sister and brothers, and for the last time, heard my dear mother's 
 voice lifted to God in prayer. Here my mother, trembling, gave 
 the parting hand, while the tears that rolled down her cheek, be- 
 spoke the parting severe. Now she is gone — that bosom is heaved 
 by affliction no more. As for myself, I am an exile ; still but a 
 child of sixteen — strewing my tears from place to place — wearing 
 out my life, and exposing myself to a premature death for the wel- 
 fare of my fellow mortals — who for this, often aim the vile weapons 
 of slander and detraction. Often I lack the necessaries of life — 
 but immediately something whispered, ' Hush, David. Shall mor- 
 tal man complain ? Thou hast received thy pension, a hundred 
 fold in this life, with persecution, which is a part of thy salary ; 
 therefore thou art blessed. Cast thine eyes above, there thou hast 
 an Almighty Friend ; there is thy inheritance and thy treasure. 
 And as thy day is, shall thy strength be." Peace flowed into my 
 
BAVID MARKS. 87 
 
 soul, and I exclaimed, "Lord Jesus, ^% will, not mine, be doiie. 
 Help me in patience to possess my soul, and make me useful in 
 thy vineyard, the little time thou shalt allot to me in this vale of 
 tears. When in death's cold arms I fall, though it be in some dis- 
 tant land, far from my native soil, be thou my friend, and accom- 
 pany me through the gloomy vale. May my flesh rest in hope, 
 and in the morning of the resurrection, have an entrance into the 
 celestial city, where thy soft hand shall wipe away all tears, thy 
 children be united in one, and Avith their harps all tuned, sing that 
 song which never ends." 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 A Journey to Gonnccticut. — Another to Upper Canada; and the 
 particulars of my travels, to the age of seventeen years. 
 
 From the commencement of my travels I had often wished io 
 visit my relatives in Connecticut, and according to the grace given 
 me, preach the gospel in that section also. Now the long desired 
 opportunity presented, and I concluded, after visiting my brothers, 
 and preaching in Junius, to depart immediately. Saturday and 
 Sabbath, Sept. 14 and 15, I attended three meetings in Galen, and 
 had the satisfaction of seeing one that had been awakened in my 
 last meeting in this place, now rejoicing in God. O, the value of 
 one soul. The next day, after riding forty miles, I preached a dull 
 sermon. The day following, I reached Brookfield, and was wel- 
 comed by my friends with expressions of surprise and gladness, — 
 for having heard that I had been assassinated, they expected to 
 see my face no more. I attended three meetings with them, in 
 which we were blessed with the smiles of the Savior. On Friday, 
 I rode thirty miles through the rain to Cherry Valley, and appoint- 
 ed a meeting in the evening at the academy. Many of the villa- 
 gers, excited by curiosity, came out to hear the " little stranger /* 
 and by the weeping of some, and the seriousness of all, it seemed 
 that good was done. Saturday, after ti'avelling forty miles, I again 
 found myself nearly destitute of money. My supper was giVen 
 me, and in the morning I paid my last money for the night's lodg- 
 ing, and left a vest as security for my horse-keeping, till my re- 
 turn. Proceeding on my way twenty miles to Greenville, I saw a 
 congregation coming out of a school house, and was impressed to 
 kneel on the green and pray. This I did, and found access to the 
 
88 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 throne of grace. The people soliciting an appointment, I stopped 
 the afternoon, and preached to several hundreds. The Lord open- 
 ed the hearts of some, and they communicated aboat three dollars* 
 Thus did kind Heaven again supply my necessities. Monday, I 
 crossed the North river at Hudson, and preached at a tavern in 
 Egremont, Mass. A young man of the family manifested a desire 
 to seek an interest in the dear Redeemer. They kindly gave me 
 entertainment, and in the morning, after praying with them, I left 
 them in tears. 
 
 At evening, I came to the dwelling of my grandfather Marks 
 in Burlington. As both he and my uncle Marks were of the Epis- 
 copal church, but myself a member of a dissenting, consequently 
 an unpopular order, I had prepared my mind for a cold reception. 
 But in this I was happily disappointed ; they received me affec- 
 tionately, gave me much good instruction and wise counsel, exhort- 
 ed me to be humble and faithful, and discharge my duty in the fear 
 of the Lord. I found my grandfather to be a man of experience 
 in the things of God, and possessed of that charity which suffereth 
 long. He despised a profession without experimental religion, a 
 form without the power of godliness, and a ministry without holi- 
 ness of heart and communion with God. My uncle also was as a 
 father in the gospel to me, and time passed pleasantly in the socie- 
 ty of his family. Ten years had elapsed since I had seen these 
 kind relatives, and now the privilege of visiting them and the pla- 
 ces of my early childhood, which time had almost obliterated from 
 my memory, was sweet to my soul. 
 
 I visited the grave-yard in Plymouth, and beginning to search 
 among the white marbles for my brother Jeremiah's grave, soon 
 espied his name on a white stone at the head of a little mound, 
 and, with much emotion, read the following lines, which the pass- 
 ing years had erased from my memory : 
 
 *' Short was my life, and sweet the date — 
 I called the Savior at the gate; 
 And sweetly did resign my breath 
 Into the hands of cruel death." 
 
 His good advice and pious warnings, with his dying words, "./ 
 
 fear David will run a wicked race^^ were remembered. Ah ! 
 
 thought I, if he were now alive he would rejoice and be glad for 
 the great things the Lord has done for me ; God has answered his 
 fervent prayers, and converted my soul. I gazed upon his grave, 
 and almost coveted his repose, saying in my heart, if faithful to my 
 calling, when I have wandered a few more days to persuade sin- 
 ners to be reconciled to God, my latter end, like thine, shall be 
 peace ; like thee, I shall rest from my labors, and my works fol- 
 low. Leaving his peaceful grave, I went to Southington, where 
 
DAVID MARKS. 89 
 
 my grandfather Merriman formerly lived, and whither my parents 
 had often taken me when a child. But both my grandfather and 
 his companion, were gone ' the way of all the earth.' Some of my 
 uncles and other relatives also, were no more. All seemed so des- 
 olate, that after staying the night with a brother of my mother, I 
 went to Middletown, and visited Elder Josiah Graves. He mar- 
 ried a sister of my mother, and from him and his family I met with 
 a very affectionate reception. 
 
 Elder Graves had been a member of the Calvinistic Baptist 
 church, and a preacher of good report in that denomination sixteen 
 years. Then, from a critical examination of the Scriptures, he 
 changed his sentiments, and boldly preached the doctrine of free 
 salvation and free communion. For this he was viewed as one 
 that had departed from the faith of the gospel, and was excluded 
 from the fellowship of the church. Several of its members imme- 
 diately seceded, and with him were organized into a church, calling 
 themselves Free-will Baptists. Hitherto they had neither known 
 our denomination or sentiments ; still I found their doctrine and 
 practice were the same that are held by the Free-will Baptists. I 
 enjoyed the privilege of preaching with them, and Elder Graves 
 remarked he had not before heard his own sentiments fully preach- 
 ed by another. I had the satisfaction of introducing to them our 
 religious periodical, [Religious Informer,] and by this medium they 
 became known to the denomination, and soon after joined the Rhode 
 Island Quarterly Meeting. After visiting an only sister of mj 
 father in Hartford, I went to Berlin, and preached in the rain to a 
 small congregation in the street. Some good appearances were 
 visible. The next day I held a meeting in Southington. Sunday, 
 Sept. 29, I attended meetings in Southington, Bristol, Plymouth,, 
 and Burlington, and the day following preached at the house of my 
 grandfather. Here I had the satisfaction of meeting my father,, 
 but enjoyed only a short interview with him, as a chain of appoint- 
 ments, extending about three hundred miles to the west, now made- 
 it my duty to leave. 
 
 On Thursday, bidding my father and kind relatives farewell, I 
 proceeded to Winstead, and attended worship in the evening. The 
 next day, after travelling thirty-seven miles, I spoke with much 
 freedom to a congregation in Egremont, Mass., and at evening held 
 a meeting near the city of Hudson. The assembly was large and 
 solemn, and by some, I trust, this season will be gladly remember- 
 ed in eternity. The next day I crossed the Hudson, and preached 
 to about two hundred people in the Christian meeting house at 
 Greenville. Here a collection of five dollars was given me. Hav- 
 ing an appointment at ten o'clock the next morning, twenty miles 
 distant, I took my leave of the kind people, after nine in the even- 
 8* 
 
90 MEMOIRS OV 
 
 ing, and walked the greater part of nine miles. In the morning I 
 reached the appointment, and preached from 1 Cor. 13:4: — 8. The 
 Spirit of God was manifested in a special manner. One was pow- 
 erfully wrought upon and fell, upon which the people were alarm- 
 ed, and broke the order of the meeting. I was obliged to leave 
 them in haste, as it was but little more than an hour to my next 
 appointment which was ten miles distant. I found a crowded as- 
 sembly, and felt that the Lord gave me utterance in speaking to 
 them. Many appeared to be deeply exercised and wept, but some 
 publicly opposed. After the meeting, a stranger gave me a dollar, 
 and wished me success in the cause of truth ; and I left the place 
 rejoicing in God, who had favored me with much of his Holy Spir- 
 it. At evening I preached in Sharon to a very large assembly 
 that heard with attention. 
 
 Monday I rode five miles, and at sunrise preached to about forty 
 people in a field ; then went to Springfield and spoke to about two 
 hundred in the Baptist meeting house. It was a time of much so- 
 lemnity. My soul was happy, and I felt to praise the Lord in the 
 congregation. O, the stupidity of men ! who neglect to honor God 
 and call upon his great name. Alas ! how indifferent are thousands ; 
 yes, the greater part of the world, notwithstanding eternity is de- 
 pending on the passing moments. I rode twenty-two miles io 
 Plainfield, and preached in the evening. Until this time, I had 
 travelled on foot or on horseback, and often -with great weariness, 
 A friend here kindly offered to sell me a light wagon for thirty- 
 five dollars, provided I could pay twelve dollars now, and the win- 
 ter following send the remainder by mail. I thanked the Lord for 
 this opportunity, accepted the offer, and was enabled to meet my 
 engagement. The next day I attended meeting in the afternoon 
 at the west part of the town, and another at Hamilton Seminary ; 
 the day following I travelled thirty miles and preached in Cazano- 
 via, Pompey, and Manlius. Thursday, I rode thirty-five miles and 
 attended two meetings, which were truly seasons of refreshing. 
 The next day I preached in Junius, at the house of Major Cham- 
 berlain, who was in a low state of health. He professed no religion, 
 but was under serious exercises of mind and requested me to pi'ay 
 for him. When we parted he left a dollar in my hand. 
 
 Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 12 and 13, the Benton Q. M. wa^ 
 held in Benton. We were favored with the Divine presence, and 
 our hearts were made glad in the Lord. In the Elders' confer- 
 ence on Monday, much union existed, and the business of the meet- 
 ing was transacted in the fear of God. 
 
 On Tuesday, I attended a meeting in Phelps, and the Holy Spir- 
 it seemed deeply to touch the hearts of some. After this I went 
 ■"ninety miles to Bethany, where the Bethany quarterly meeting 
 
1)AYID MARKS. 91 
 
 opened on the 20th of the month. The weather was extremely un- 
 pleasant, yet several assembled, and the preaching was in the pow- 
 er and demonstration of the Spirit. Our hearts were warmed with 
 heavenly love, and many went away rejoicing in the God of their 
 salvation. After meeting, I went to Black Rock, and crossed the 
 Niagara river into Upper Canada. Proceeding a few miles down 
 the river, I took an active part in a Methodist prayer meeting. A 
 brother desired to know why I came into this section to preach, 
 rather than stay and preach within the circle of my acquaintance. 
 I replied, that if God had given me a mission, it was not to stay 
 and preach; but, according to Mark 16:15, to ^^ Go and preach;" 
 and that duty led me to travel, as the apostles and the blessed 
 Jesus did, to publish the glad tidings of salvation to all classes of 
 men ; so that hearing the truth from various witnesses, some might 
 thereby be saved. 
 
 Friday, Oct. 25, I walked twenty-two miles to see the cataract 
 of Niagara. I descended a spiral staircase of one hundred steps ; 
 then casting my eyes upward, beheld the rocks towering one hun- 
 dred and fifty feet above my head, while immense volumes of water 
 poured from this height in awful majesty. These circumstances, 
 together with the continued roar of the water falling into the awful 
 gulf beneath, and then passing along in dreadful agitation — the 
 trembling of the earth around the cataract — the rising spray, with 
 the attending rainbow — ^united to form a scene more sublime and 
 impressive, than any I had ever witnessed. Stupid must be the 
 mind that can view such a wonder without being led to adore its 
 Divine Author. On this occasion my heart adopted the language 
 of the inspired penman, " Who is like unto thee, Lord, among 
 the gods ! who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, 
 doing wonders^ " The heavens declare thy glory, and the firma- 
 ment shoiveth thy handy work. Day unto day uttereth speech, and 
 night unto night showeth knoicledge" 
 
 "While beholding the constant motion of the stream, I was forci- 
 bly struck with its analogy to man's voyage down the stream of 
 time. A few miles above the falls, the river glides gently and un- 
 disturbed ; — so the morning of life passes smoothly away. As in a 
 little distance, the smooth surface of the water is broken in passing- 
 over the rocks, and with inconceivable swiftness is finally hurried 
 down the tremendous precipice; — so after a few days, the fair ap- 
 pearances of earthly prospects are broken on the rocks of disap- 
 pointment, and every passing moment hastens the living to that 
 dread precipice, whence they must launch into eternity. Still, 
 while the sons of vanity know this, they sport and amuse them- 
 selves with that which cannot profit, and that which rendei*s their 
 hearts insensible to their dreadful danger. Thus they remain stu- 
 
92 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 pidly ignorant of the horrid gulf into which, unless they soon awake, 
 they will as surely plunge, as the waters of Niagara, in their course, 
 plunge down the precipice. Should we not think people beside 
 themselves, were we to see them enter a vessel a few miles above 
 the falls, suffer it to float with the current, and in the meantime 
 waste their hours in sleep, or amuse themselves with frivolous 
 reading, dancing, card playing, decking themselves with orna- 
 ments, or gorgeous and costly apparel, till they should find their 
 bark leaving the gentle stream, and hastening with awful speed 
 down the irresistible current ? Then in vain they might awake, 
 see their helpless state, and cry for assistance ; — ^in vain might they 
 attempt to escape ; — in vain they might turn their eyes from the 
 danger ; — in vain might they strive to forget their condition. Noth- 
 ing now can save them from the sad and final doom ! Should we 
 not pity them ? Should we not, before they are passed beyond the 
 reach of help, labor diligently to arouse them from their stupidity ; 
 to w?vrn them of their danger, and to turn them from their fatal 
 course ? Humanity answers, yes. And while men, floating rap- 
 idly down the stream of time, must soon launch into eternity — and. 
 if not aroused from their insensibility to spiritual things, must sink 
 into the burning lake ; shall we labor less diligently for their eter- 
 nal welfare — or be less anxious to save them from the far more 
 dreadful destruction that awaits them ? Heaven says, no. Rea- 
 son and revelation say, no. And conscience approves the decision. 
 But, O ! how astonishing the mournful truth — that men are offend- 
 ed when we seek their welfare ; when we strive to awaken them 
 from fatal stupidity ; and for this, count us enemies, and treat us 
 as foes ! 
 
 In the evening, I held a meeting at the little village of St. Da- 
 vid's, and after its close, several gentlemen, as they passed out, laid 
 some pieces of money on the table before me. The two days fol- 
 lowing I spent at a Methodist quarterly meeting in the township 
 of Stanford. They received me kindly, and I used the liberty giv- 
 en in the gospel. This was a precious season. After the quar- 
 terly meeting closed, I preached in the evening at the Methodist 
 chapel in Lundy's Lane ; and the next day visited and prayed in 
 several families. One of these families consisted of a widow and 
 two sons ; and as soon as I began to converse, the sons fled to the 
 barn. I followed and prayed with them. They appeared rather 
 .seriously exercised, yet angry at my perseverance in persuading 
 them to be reconciled to God. At 1 o'clock, P. M. I held a meet- 
 ing a few miles west of St. David's. The Lord heard the groan- 
 ings of his people, and his Spirit reached the hearts of sinners. 
 Twelve that were awakened, bowed at the altar of mercy. In the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 93 
 
 evening I preached at the chapel in Stanford, and the day follow- 
 ing in St. David's. 
 
 On Wednesday, I walked thirteen miles through the mud, and 
 attended meetings in Queenston and Chippeway : in the latter I 
 was much shut up and exceedingly tempted. My trials were so 
 severe, that like Peter, I found my faith weak and myself sinking ; 
 but the promise that we shall not " be tempted above that we are 
 able, but with the temptation shall find way for escape," encourag- 
 ed me. I cried unto the Lord, and blessed be his name, he heard 
 my cry and delivered me out of trouble. On Thursday, I attended 
 two meetings ; in the latter, at Waterloo, the Lord made it a sea- 
 son of refreshing to his saints, and of trembling to some sinners. 
 The day following, I crossed the Niagara at Black Rock, and 
 preached at Hamburg in the evening. On Saturday, I labored un- 
 der much indisposition, but was enabled to attend appointments in 
 Aurora and Wales. 
 
 Sunday, Nov. 2, I held two meetings in Bennington. At the 
 close of the latter, a daughter of a Presbyterian minister came for- 
 ward weeping, and asked me to pray for her. I replied, you must 
 pray for yourself. She said she could not, and repeating the Scrip- 
 ture, " The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth 
 much," again requested my prayers in her behalf. I asked her if 
 she was willing to kneel. She said, " Yes ;" and bowed the knee, 
 weeping while I prayed for her, as if her heart was broken. Short- 
 ly after, she was brought to rejoice in the Redeemer, and united 
 with the Presbyterian church. At two o'clock, P. M., I preached 
 again in the east part of Bennington, and at evening in the village 
 of Attica. These were to me seasons of rejoicing. 
 
'^4 "^^MoiRS dp 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 My travels and labors in different places ; Revival in JBatavia, S^c. 
 
 Monday, Nov. 4, 1822, completed my seventeenth year. As 
 the sun arose in splendor, my mind was filled with solemnity, and 
 I rejoiced in God the Rock of my salvation, for the great things he 
 had done for me. I said in my heart, * hitherto he hath been my 
 helper, and in all my tribulation his right hand hath upheld me.' 
 He has soothed every sorrow, and poured heavenly consolation in- 
 to my bosom. ' O, my soul, declare his greatness, and his good- 
 ness in the congregation of the living; and when death shall call 
 'thee hence, shout his praises, and speak of his power in that hour 
 of trial ; for surely, had not his arm been strong, and his mercy 
 great, ere this time thou hadst fallen by the hand of Saul." 
 
 "His worth, if all the nations knew, 
 Sure the whole world would love him too." 
 
 Now I covenanted with God to be more faithful in his cause,— 
 praying that I might see a more abundant outpouring of his Spir- 
 it^ and more souls persuaded to turn and live. On this day I went 
 to my appointment, four miles north of Batavia village. Brother 
 J. Barker received me affectionately ; and being a stranger, I in- 
 quired of him the state of the people. He declined giving any in- 
 formation, and exhorted me to inquire of the Lord, saying, if he 
 had sent me, his Spirit would direct. I found a crowded assembly, 
 but had no particular text. In the introductory prayer, I asked 
 the Lord to direct me to a subject; and opening the Bible, the first 
 that met my eye was. Proverbs 1:24 — 27, " Because I have called, 
 and ye refused ; I have stretched out my hand, and no man re- 
 garded ; but ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none 
 of my reproof; I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock 
 when your fear cometh. When your fear cometh as desolation, 
 and your destruction as a whirlwind, when distress and anguish 
 cometh upon you." Believing the Lord had given me this for a 
 text, I commenced speaking from it. Within ten minutes an aw- 
 ful solemnity rested on the congregation, and every cloud seemed 
 to disappear. The place was glorious and awful on account of the 
 * presence of God. Poor wanderers lamented their backslidings, 
 and declared their determinations to return to their first love. Many 
 sinners awoke to view their danger and wickedness in forgetting 
 God. When the meeting closed, the greater part of the youth, 
 crowding around in tears, requested prayer, and several kneeled, 
 
DAVID MARKS. 9^^ 
 
 while I entreated the Lord to have mercy.*- This vicinity had . 
 long been noted for neglect of religion, and though it had been in- 
 hj^bited seventeen years, no revival had ever been in the place. 
 The faithful servants of God had often visited the people and 
 preached repentance, but generally they complained of being much 
 closed in their communications ; and sometimes almost concluded 
 the Lord ^^ could there do no mighty work — because of their unhc' 
 lief** But now he unexpectedly visited them in mercy. They 
 permitted their eyes and ears to be opened, and many dared no 
 longer to bolt the Savior from their hearts, lest he should unsheath 
 his sword of vengeance against them, and forever forget to be gra- 
 cious. O, how fearfully dangerous to reject the calls of the gos- 
 pel, and slight its solemn warnings ! 
 
 My mind was again brought into trial in regard to duty. The 
 appearances of a revival here, seemed to demand my stay ; but my 
 appointments called me one hundred miles to the east ; and having 
 purposed returning to Canada, I had also left appointments in that 
 province. Under these circumstances, I concluded that it was duty 
 to fulfill my engagements. So leaving an appointment to attend on, 
 my return to Canada, I went on my way November 5, and attend- 
 ed meetings in Byron, Ogden, Penfield, Ontario, Williamson, 
 Sodus and Lyons. In Sodus, many tears were shed, several were 
 awakened, two of whom were soon after brought into the liberty of 
 the gospel. 
 
 Sunday, Nov. 10, I preached in Lyons, and the Lord gave me a 
 tongue of utterance. In the afternoon and evening, I held meet- 
 ings in Sodus, and the day following walked seventeen miles, and 
 attended a meeting one mile east of Rochester. Tuesday, after 
 walking thirteen miles to Ogden, and preaching at one o'clock, I 
 found myself much fatigued, and unable to walk to my next meet- 
 ing, which was at four o'clock, P. M. I entreated my heavenly 
 Master to open the heart of some one, to lend me a beast to ride as 
 far as Byron. Soon my desire was granted. I attended meeting in 
 Bergen, then hastened to Byron, and there had to leave my bor- 
 rowed horse about the setting of the sun. It was yet eight miles 
 to my appointment in Batavia. And feeling anxious to reach thi§ 
 meeting, particularly on account of the encouraging prospect that 
 appeared there on my former visit, I endeavored to obtain a 
 horse. But all my efforts were ineffectual, till night came on, 
 when I met a man with a span of horses, returning from labor. Af- 
 ter relating my situation, I asked him for a horse. He replied that 
 
 * Mr. J. Barkrr writes March 16, 1846, respertinff this meeting, "Your husband camje 
 to mv house the day he was severteen years old, and preached In the eveninir with won* 
 derfiil power. So preat was the effect on the cot preeation, that hid voice was complete- 
 ly drowned by the loud cries and sobs of his hearers." {Ed, 
 
96 jfEMoms OP 
 
 his beasts had labored hard and eaten nothing since morning, and 
 it was folly for me to attempt to reach Batavia that evening. But 
 the appointed hour had already come ; I could not reconcile my^ 
 self to the thought of a failure, and offered five dollars for the use 
 of the horse. After feeding the beast half an hour the man con- 
 sented, but would take no reward. I reached the appointment at 
 about half past seven, and found several hundred people anxiously 
 waiting. I enjoyed a favored season, and the heavenly cloud 
 seemed, as before, to hang over them. After returning the horse 
 in the morning, I borrowed another in Batavia to go to Canada. 
 The next day I crossed the Niagara river at Lewiston, attended a 
 meeting at the village of St. David's, and the day following preach- 
 ed in Thorold, where the Lord lifted upon us the light of his coun- 
 tenance. The kind people gave me two dollars. 
 
 Sunday, Nov. 17, having been requested, I preached twice in 
 Lewiston. During the first sermon, I felt especially assisted, but 
 in the afternoon labored under much trial. I had need to exercise 
 faith, and strive to be patient in tribulation, knowing that this 
 Christ hath appointed for our good. It is no difficult thing to re- 
 joice in the light of God's countenance ; but he who can rejoice 
 when the Lord hides his face, has obtained no small victory over 
 the world, and boldness in the faith. Yet it is the duty and priv- 
 ilege of every Christian to be so established, as to be unmoved 
 amidst the most trying seasons of persecution and affliction. In the 
 evening, I preached at an inn kept by Mr. H. on the Ridge road. 
 On.e of his daughters then lay a corpse in the house. My mind 
 was directed to Matt. 9:18, " My daughter is even now dead, but 
 come and lay thy hand upon her and she shall live." I enjoyed a 
 highly favored time ; the Spirit of the Lord seemed to touch many 
 hearts, and tears fell like drops of rain. Being requested, I at- 
 tended the funeral at 10 o'clock the next, morning, and had reason 
 to hope that this meeting, as well as the previous one, will be joy- 
 fully remembered in the great day of accounts. Mr. H. with sev- 
 eral others, gave me five dollars. 
 
 In the evening I preached at Royalton to an attentive assembly ; 
 the next morning to a few in the east part of the town, and then 
 proceeded to my appointment at Batavia. A large congregation 
 was present, and kind Heaven aided me in dispensing the word of 
 life. Though none had as yet been converted, the prospect of re- 
 vival was more promising than ever. Several were heavy laden 
 with a sense of their iniquities, and anxiously inquiring the way to 
 Zion. A door seemed to open so effectually for preaching the word 
 in a place that had never before received the Savior, that I thought 
 it duty to make no more appointments at present, which would in- 
 fringe on any opportunity for usefulness in this vicinity. Wednes- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 97 
 
 day, Nov. 20, I visited and prayed with fifteen families, and found 
 several among the number seeking Jesus sorrowing. In the even- 
 ing, I held a meeting at a place called Sodom, which I understood 
 was so named on account of the wickedness of the people. The 
 next day I visited from house to house, striving with tears to per- 
 suade the inhabitants to flee from the storm of wrath that awaits 
 the ungodly, and seek for refuge in the " sinner's Friend." In the 
 evening we held a meeting on the town line, and enjoyed a profit- 
 able time. Backsliders took words and returned to the Lord. At 
 the close eight or ten came forward and kneeled, while their tears 
 and sighs manifested a deep concern for their eternal welfare. 
 
 On Friday, I visited several families, held one meeting in Staf- 
 ford, and another in Le Roy, where the Lord gave me a tongue of 
 utterance. Great solemnity rested on the people, and many trem- 
 bled under the mighty power of God. Several were awakened, 
 and shortly after I learned that fourteen of the number had ex- 
 perienced a change of heart, and were happy in the Redeemer. O 
 blessed be the Lord, for his wonderful works among the children 
 of men. 
 
 Saturday, we met in Batavia for a conference. Several related 
 their exercises of mind, some expressed their desires for salvation, 
 and entreated an interest in the prayers of the saints. Sunday, 
 Nov. 24, early in the morning the house of worship was filled to 
 overflowing. In the former part of the day my mind was direct- 
 ed to 2 Kings 7:3, 4, " And there were four leprous men at the 
 entering in of the gate, and they said one to another. Why sit we 
 here until we die ? If we say we will enter into the city, then the 
 famine is in the city, and we shall die there ; and if we sit here we 
 die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the 
 Syrians ; if they save us alive we shall live, and if they kill us we 
 shall but die." In the afternoon, my text was, Heb. 11:24, 25, 26, 
 " By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called 
 the son of Pharoah's daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction 
 with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a 
 season ; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the 
 treasures in Egypt, for he had respect unto the recompense of the 
 reward." It was a heart searching time among sinners, and attend- 
 ed with some new cases of awakening. At evening I held anoth- 
 er meeting in the same place. The Spirit of the Lord was power- 
 fully manifested, and the sighs of heavy laden souls were heard in 
 every part of the assembly. The cries, " Lord have mercy !" and 
 " Pray for me /" saluted our ears from some of the most respecta- 
 ble young people in the place. Twenty-five came forward and 
 kneeled while prayer was offered in their behalf. Truly, the tall 
 9 
 
^ MEMOIRS OP 
 
 oaks of Bashan were made to bow before the God who ruleth in 
 the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth. 
 
 On Tuesday, in the same place, I spoke with much freedom 
 nearly two hours, from 1 Cor. 9:16. ^^ For necessity is laid upon 
 me ; yea, wo is unto me if I preach not the gospel !" After ser- 
 mon, forty-one spoke, twelve of whom were seeking the Lord sor- 
 rowing ; while cries and sobs were heard in almost every part of 
 the assembly. Among those who spoke, were several that had 
 never before said anything publicly on the subject of religion. 
 They now freely confessed their sins, related the exercises of their 
 minds since their awakening, and declared their resolutions to re- 
 form and turn to Jesus. Several were soon brought to rejoice, and 
 they praised the Lord aloud. At the close of the meeting thirty, 
 firmly fixed on seeking heavenly joys, came forward and kneeled 
 at the altar of mercy. While 1 beheld the proud youth, who had 
 been forgetful of the Savior that all their miseries bore, come for- 
 ward weeping and crying to God for merey, my heart was greatly 
 affected and my feelings almost overpowered me. Yet, I rejoic- 
 ed in hope of their deliverance from sin, and soon was glad to find 
 six happy converts united in exhorting their mourning associates 
 not to despair, but to look earnestly to the Lord for salvation. The 
 day following I held a meeting on the town line of Batavia and; 
 Stafford, in which one cried for mercy, and soon professed to find 
 pardon through the " Son of the blessed." On Thursday I preach- 
 ed again in the revival, after which about twenty spoke of the 
 goodness of God. 
 
 Sunday, Dec. 1, we met again for worship, and as usual, enjoy- 
 ed a blessed season. Since our last meeting another had been 
 converted, who now gave a good testimony. Some heavy laden 
 souls were almost in a despairing state, yet we rejoiced to hear 
 them say they were resolved to continue seeking the grace of God, 
 and if they perished, to die pleading for mercy. My heart was 
 glad in the Lord, and my soul was comforted by the light of his 
 countenance. 
 
 On Monday, Elder came into the place. This was the 
 
 preacher, who, previous to my journey to Ohio, thought me not in 
 the way of duty, and who told me that either he or I had not the 
 Spirit of Christ. (See page 73.) Now on hearing of the revi- 
 val, he was filled with great joy. For in time past, he had been 
 greatly bound in spirit while preaching to this people, and had 
 viewed them as almost forsaken of the Lord. Till this time he 
 haid appeared unfavorably disposed toward my course. Now when 
 he witnessed the grace of God, he fell on his knees, confessed his 
 past feelings, and thanked the Lord for what his ears had heardi 
 He affectionately bid me " God speed," and to this day our heart 
 
DAVID MARKS. ^ 
 
 has been like the heart of David and Jonathan. He held a meet- 
 ing with us and enjoyed a blessed season. 
 
 As I had appointments leading nearly two hundred miles east- 
 ward, I was now, for a time, under the necessity of leaving. This 
 was very trying and painful to me ; for the minds of many were 
 much exercised, and some were almost in despair, and great- 
 ly needed encouragement. But wishing to meet my engage- 
 ments, I committed them to the care of the great Physician, 
 and took my leave. The winter had now become very cold ; 
 still I had no over garment, and my clothes being worn con- 
 siderably thin I had suffered much from the severity of the weath- 
 er. Having frequently spoken to crowded assemblies till in a state 
 of profuse perspiration, and then exposed myself to the evening 
 air, I had taken several violent colds which had greatly impaired 
 my health. The Lord now opened the heart of a brother in Ba- 
 tavia to give me a great coat, which, though more than half worn, 
 made me very comfortable. 
 
 Sunday, Dec. 8, 1 preached in Lyons ; my health failed and for- 
 bade the immediate performance of my journey. I had yet sev- 
 enteen appointments; and after resting one day I went to Junius, 
 hoping to be able to attend them. But finding myself unable to 
 travel and meet my engagements, I was compelled to abandon the 
 design. Some of these appointments I withdrew by letter ; still 
 there remained a larger number of congregations than I had ever 
 before disappointed. I could only pray, that they might be favor- 
 ed with the Divine presence. After staying a short time till my 
 health would permit me to travel, I returned to Batavia. My 
 friends welcomed me affectionately, and I rejoiced to find that dur- 
 ing my absence some had obtained a hope in Jesus, and were now 
 happy in that love that passeth understanding. From the 17th of 
 Dec. to the close of the month, I continued in the vicinity of the 
 revival ; but as my health was not yet restored I held but five 
 meetings in a week. The work continued without abatement, and 
 some of the converts were strong in the faith. Some who were 
 near a despairing state when I left the place, were now happy in 
 the Lord ; and by their spiritual exhortations contributed much to 
 the spread of the w^ork. Our congregations w^ere large ; the Lord 
 often spread his banner over us — we sat under his shadow with 
 great delight, and his fruit was sweet to our taste. Opposition and 
 persecution showed their deformed heads at times, yet not more 
 than is usual when God pours out his Spirit ; for it may be justly 
 doubted whether a revival of pure religion ever passed without 
 more or less opposition from the ungodly. When the Lord revives 
 his work, the adversary rages ; and when the sons of God me6t 
 together, as in the days of Job, satan comes also. 
 
100 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 On the first day of the year 1823, I preached from Lev. 25:10: 
 Heaven smiled upon us, and many remarked that it was by far the 
 happiest New Year's day they had ever seen. In the evening the 
 Lord enabled me to speak with much freedom to an assembly in 
 Elba; after which seventy-two spoke of the exercises of their 
 minds. Among this number were several converts who had re- 
 ceived tickets soliciting their attendance at a ball in the village of 
 Batavia, where the thoughtless gay were to waste the first evening of 
 the new year. Many covenanted to spend this year in humble obe- 
 dience to the Lord. BetAveen ten and eleven the exercises closed, 
 and scores went away " rejoicing with joy unspeakable and full of 
 glory ;" while others weighed down under a sense of their lost con- 
 dition went to their homes in sadness. 
 
 After a few weeks' absence in attendance upon the Benton and 
 Bethany quarterly meetings, I returned to Batavia, and heard the sol- 
 emn tidings that one of the happy converts, a young woman, had 
 gone suddenly to her eternal home. She was brought to rejoice but a 
 few days before my departure, and at that time enjoyed health and 
 the prospect of long life. Soon after the attack of her disease, 
 she was sensible her days on earth were nearly concluded ; but 
 amid this expectation, the religion she had lately embraced, buoy- 
 ed up her spirit ; and when passing through the valley and shad- 
 ow of death, she rejoiced in hope of immortality. While we saw 
 her empty seat, we wept for our loss, but rejoiced in the consoling 
 belief that she had made a happy exchange, and joined the blood- 
 washed throng. 
 
 During the two succeeding weeks I labored in the revival, and 
 held eight meetings in adjacent towns. 
 
 During the revival at Batavia, an individual from Riga who 
 was on a visit to this place, was touched by the preaching of the 
 word, and after returning home w^as soon converted. By this 
 i)aeans I was invited to Riga, and sent an appointment. February 
 11, I attended two meetings in that town, in which the power of 
 the Lord was manifested, particularly in the last. Several appear- 
 ed deeply convicted of their danger without an interest in the Sa- 
 vior, and confessed their resolves to turn to the Lord. I left them 
 in tears, believing that some of them were nigh the kingdom. 
 Nor was my faith vain, for soon after, as I was informed, five or 
 six found Jesus to be precious to their souls. 
 
 Feb. 14, facing a tedious storm, I walked to Byron, and spoke 
 to a few from Dan. 5:25 : " Mene, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin'' Sat- 
 urday morning, the snow having fallen nearly two feet in depth, a 
 friend kindly sent his son to carry me three miles. I then walked 
 a mile and a half, when my strength failed. It was now the mid- 
 dle of the day, the road yet unbroken ; and as it was impossible to 
 
DAVID MARKS. 101 
 
 reach my appointments, I tarried over the Sabbath and attended a 
 meeting. Monday, I returned to Elba and Batavia and attended 
 two meetings. In the latter, the converts gave many excellent 
 and weighty exhortations, which greatly cheered my heart. 
 
 Feb. 21, I went to the south part of Le Roy, and preached from 
 1 Chron. 9:17 — 19. The Spirit of God was manifested in the meet- 
 ing with great power, and weeping and lamentation were heard in 
 every part of the assembly. My heart was made glad at the close, 
 when thirty awakened souls came forward, desiring the prayers of 
 the saints. A revival followed this meetmg. 
 
 Sunday, Feb. 23, I preached again in Batavia, and at evening 
 held what some would call an " open class meeting J^ Though we 
 met with some opposition from the irreligious, we were encouraged 
 and made strong by the smiles of our Master — by the Mighty God 
 of Jacob. The day following I preached in Stafford, and on Wednes- 
 day attended two meetings in Le Roy. The latter of these was 
 in the south part of the town, where on my foimer visit, thirty 
 came forward for prayer. The assembly was large, attentive and 
 solemn ; tAventy promised to seek the Lord, and gave me their 
 hands in token of their covenant. Soon after I was informed that 
 nearly all of this number, and some others, had professed to pass 
 from death unto life. 
 
 Friday, I went to Stafford, where I had an appointment ; but on 
 account of illness was unable to attend it. The next day, feeling 
 a little better, I walked to Batavia and preached in the evening. 
 Sunday, March 2, though still laboring under much infirmity of 
 body, I went to the south part of the town and heard a Universal- 
 ist preach on a funeral occasion. This man was learned and elo- 
 quent, and in many instances had been successful in persuading the 
 wicked that it should be well with them, even though they should 
 die by drunkenness, by the violence of their own hand, or on the 
 gallows. His text was, Eccl. 12:7 : "Then shall the dust return 
 to the earth as it was ; and the spirit shall return unto God who 
 gave it." In the latter part of his discourse, he stated there was 
 not a passage in the Bible, which said, after the spirit had once left 
 the body and gone to God, that it should ever depart. Upon this, 
 the query arose in my mind, whether he would not find himself to 
 be one of those, who, having taken from the words of the prophesy of 
 the book of God, shall have their part taken out of the book of life. (See 
 Rev. 22:19.) For says Christ, when speaking of that awful day 
 in which he shall gather all nations before him, " These" (the wick- 
 ed) " shall go away into everlasting punishment." Matt. 25:46. 
 " Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire." Matt. 25:41. 
 According to Universalisra, the wicked shall not depart ; but ac- 
 cording to Christ, they shall depart. Which shall we believe? O ! how 
 9* 
 
102 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 many of the unsuspecting youth are caught in this fatal snare, and 
 make this a substitute for repentance and faith in Christ ! 
 
 March 6, I rode forty miles to Buffalo, and about sunset, called 
 on a family that professed to be followers of Christ. When I 
 preached here eighteen months before, they kindly entertained me, 
 and invited me to call again. I now called and desired to leave 
 an appointment — but they told me, as the people were well inform- 
 ed, and pretty particular, they would not receive the word from one 
 of my age, ability, and information ; so I started immediately for 
 Hamburg, with a young brother who had accompanied me from 
 Batavia. Ten miles of our road lay tlirough an Indian reservation 
 that was uninhabited, except by Indians. Wlien we were about 
 half way through this wood, it being very dark, we missed our way 
 and followed an Indian trail three miles before we discovered our 
 mistake. We found some of the natives who had lain down for 
 the night, and from them obtained directions for our return. When . 
 within half a mile of the road we had left, my horse started and 
 ran down a steep hill with such violence, that coming in contact 
 with a bass-wood tree, one thill of the sleigh stuck like an arrow 
 fast in the tree, while the other, breaking, hung in the harness, and 
 the horse left the sleigh. It was then about 1 1 o'clock in the even- 
 ing, and we were six miles from any white inhabitants. We cut 
 a bridle into strings, and fastening the traces to the sleigh runners, 
 one of us led the horse, the other held the sleigh to prevent it from 
 running too fast on descending ground, and thus we arrived at the 
 house of a friend in Hamburg about one o'clock, and were kindly 
 received. 
 
 Sunday, March 9, I preached in Buffalo, and in the four days 
 following, held ten meetings between Buffalo and Batavia. Some 
 of the assemblies were large and attentive. Between the 14th and 
 25th of March, I attended meetings in Bethany, Attica, Benning- 
 ton, and Alexander, and spent the rest of the time preaching in 
 Batavia and Elba. 
 
 March 24, as I awoke. Elder Parmenter said to me, " I have 
 had a dream, and I believe it is from the Lord. In my dream I 
 went to the house of Moses King in Groveland, and was asked if 
 I knew David Marks, the " hoy preacher V I answered, ", Yes ;" to 
 which they replied, " he is near by in a swamp, cuttiiig cedar to 
 build a house ; and for several days has been waiting' for you to 
 come, and assist him in putting it up.' " He then said,, if I would 
 go to Groveland, he believed I should there see the work of the 
 Lord. This town I had never visited, and did not recollect of hav- 
 ing heard even its name. I felt rather inclined to visit the place 
 immediately, but made no conclusion till the next morning, when 
 Elder P. said to me, " I have dreamed yet another dream ;" which 
 
DAVID MARKS. 103 
 
 he related as follows : " I was at the house of William Whitman in 
 the town of Geneseo, three miles from Moses King's in Grove- 
 land, and brother W. asked me the same question that was pro- 
 posed to me in my former dream, and received the same answer. 
 He further said you had just been there, and was now near by in 
 a quarry, hewing stone to build a house, and for some time had 
 been impatiently waiting for me to come and help you build it ; al- 
 so, that you had that day remarked, if I did not come you should 
 come after me." Then said I, the dreams, like those of Pharaoh, are 
 " one ;" God having shown to his servant " what he is about to do^ 
 " And for that the dream was doubled ; it is because the thing is es- 
 tablished by God^ and God will shortly bring it to pass." Gen. 
 41:25 — 32. This decided my going to Groveland; for I firmly be- 
 lieved the Lord would there revive his work. 
 
 Tuesday, March 25, I preached in the south part of Le Roy, 
 and again the next morning. The Spirit of the Lord attended the 
 word, and sinners wept. Ten individuals at each meeting spoke 
 of their lost condition, and declared their determination to seek Je- 
 sus. I left them in tears, and on my way to Groveland, held five 
 meetings in Riga, which, I trust, through the blessing of God, 
 were profitable. In the last meeting, a man who had lived nearly 
 seventy years without an interest in Christ, now, for the first time, 
 expressed an anxiety to be prepared for the great change he must 
 soon meet. I also attended one meeting in Wheatland, and the 
 morning after, one professed to receive the pardoning grace of Grod 
 at the house where I spent the night. On Monday, March 31, 1 
 attended a meeting in Caledonia. Some appeared to be serious, 
 others were offended. April 1, I arrived at the house of brother 
 Whitman, in Geneseo, and was kindly received in his family. I 
 told them I expected immediately to see souls converted in that 
 place, but they seemed slow of heart to believe. I appointed a 
 meeting at his house in the evening, and spent the afternoon in 
 visiting the people. But few attended the meeting ; professors of 
 religion were generally in a lukewarm state, and the prospect seem- 
 ed not so encouraging as I had hoped to find it. The next day I 
 held a meeting in Groveland, and the prospect here appeared no 
 more encouraging than in Geneseo. I determined, however, to 
 
 , stay a few days and see whether the Lord would revive liis work. 
 
 ^rTor five days I held meetings alternatel}" in Groveland and Gen- 
 eseo, and employed the leisure hours in conversation and prayer 
 among the people. The congregations increased in each town, and 
 an increasing solemnity was observed. Yet I had felt disappointed, 
 fearing my labor would be in vain, till in the last of these meet- 
 ings, the hearts of some began to melt. This encouraging pros- 
 pect appeiared as " a little cloud like a man's hand ;" and, remem- 
 
104 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 beriiig the confidence I felt when coming to the place, that the Lord 
 had sent me, I doubled my diligence, and from the 5th to the 10th 
 of April, held one meeting a day in each town. The cloud of 
 mercy now hung over the place, and we heard the sound of rain. 
 Scores w^ere weeping for their sins ; some backsliders returned wnth 
 tears, and met a welcome reception at their Father's house ; the 
 Laodicean Christians began to do their first work, and again to en- 
 joy their first love. 
 
 Sunday, April 13, we met for worship at a school house in Gen- 
 eseo. A hundred people who were unable to enter the house stood 
 without, and all seemed to hear attentively. As the meeting com- 
 menced many began to weep ; and in the course of the exercises 
 their number increased till near the close of the sermon, when 
 about the whole assembly were melted into tenderness. Several 
 vented their grief by sighs and groans, and cried to God for mer- 
 cy. This interesting interview contmued about five hours, and be- 
 fore it closed two or three were hopefully converted. Some re- 
 turned weeping, others remained as though loth to leave the place 
 till they should find Jesus. A man over forty yeare of age, who 
 was not easily or often moved, w^ept and trembled on account of 
 his sins. He said he had sinned against the true light in which he 
 might have walked, and now feared there was no mercy for him, 
 and that he never should have strength even to leave the house. 
 Soon, however, he gained strength to go to a neighbor's house, and 
 in a few days found some comfort ; yet he made no public profes- 
 sion till about three years afterward, when he joined the church. 
 On Thursday I held a meeting in Groveland ; nearly two hundred 
 attended, and we had a refreshing season. Five or six, who went 
 away heavy laden on Sunday evening, were now praising the Lord ; 
 and more than twenty came forward for prayer. 
 
 Continuing my stay in Groveland and Geneseo, we had one, two, 
 or three meetings almost every day, and usually some were brought 
 into the liberty of the redeemed. 
 
 In one meeting, shortly after it commenced, a young woman be- 
 gan to weep aloud, as though indifferent to all around, and contin- 
 ued without cessation till the sermon closed ; she then arose and 
 said with emotions of poignant grief, " O that I had never been 
 born ! Wo is me that I have a being ! for my sins cannot be for- 
 given ! Would to God that I had died when a child ! and now I 
 should have been happy ! O mothers, how can you weep for your chil- 
 dren that died in infancy !" A deep excitement was noticed through 
 the whole assembly, and several fervent prayers were offered up 
 to God in behalf of this young woman, and for some others who 
 were in great grief, as though the sorrows of death had compassed 
 them about. After the assembly was dismissed, the young woman 
 
DAVID MARKS. 105 
 
 before named passed through the street, weeping like one that now 
 felt no interest in what the world might remark. It was truly af- 
 fecting to hear her lamentations at the distance of a quarter of 
 a mile, while not only those who attended the meeting, but 
 those in the houses and fields of a thickly settled neighborhood, 
 stood listening till her mournful accents receded and died away 
 upon the ear. She went home, and asking forgiveness of her pa- 
 rents for neglecting their warnings and counsel to seek the Savior, 
 she made a solemn vow neither to eat nor sleep till she knew the 
 worst of her condition. Two days and a half she passed thus, 
 mostly alone, bewailing her state day and night. She was sitting 
 pensive by a small stream in a solitary wood, when suddenly its in- 
 nocent murmur assumed a pleasant sound. She looked into the 
 water — ^it was beautiful. She turned her eyes upward — the leaf- 
 less trees were bright and praised God. She exclaimed, " Glory 
 to the Lord !" and returning to her parents, told them Jesus had 
 pardoned her sins. She came to the next meeting, and the mo- 
 ment she entered, several with myself were confident from her 
 countenance, that she had found peace in believing, though we had 
 heard nothing of any change. She declared what great things the 
 Lord had done for her soul, and her testimony was like a sharp 
 sword. 
 
 On Monday, May 5, I left Groveland to attend the Benton quar- 
 terly meeting, which opened at the Presbyterian meeting house in 
 Brutus on the 10th. 
 
 Previous to my leaving, several of the converts requested an 
 opportunity of being baptized. They had never seen any immers- 
 ed, nor had any one preached to them on this subject since the re- 
 vival. I told them that I could not baptize, and as there was no 
 church of Free-will Baptists in this town, they might do well to 
 find a home with the Methodists. They replied they could not do 
 this, for some of them had been sprinkled, and now they believed 
 it was their duty to be baptized. In accordance with their re- 
 quest, I had solicited Elder Norton, a stranger to them, to come 
 and see the work and baptize. On Wednesday and Thursday, 
 brother Norton preached in Groveland much to the satisfaction of 
 the people, and six or seven related their experience for baptism. 
 We went down to Conesus lake, about half a mile distant. The 
 day was pleasant, the water clear and beautiful, and the earth ar- 
 rayed in all the beauties of May. The converts in heavenly 
 smiles stood on the shore, while the spectators lined the bank. 
 Here I felt the warm breezes of heaven on my soul, and could 
 scarcely refrain from crying, " Glory to God in the highest." When 
 seven had come out of the water praising God, a young man of re- 
 
1^ MEMOIRS OP 
 
 spectability came forward, related his experience, and was bap- 
 tized. 
 
 A few days previous to this, a letter had been sent to Elder 
 Hinkley of Parma, requesting him to come to Grov eland to preach 
 and baptize. Three days after the first baptism, brother H. came, 
 accompanied by two brethren. He preached on the Sabbath ; sev- 
 en more related their experience and were baptized. On Thurs- 
 day, I proposed to a young lady in despair to fast two days, pray- 
 ing ten times in each for the salvation of her soul. To this we 
 both agreed, and I went immediately to the Bethany quarterly 
 meeting, held on the town line of Batavia and Elba. Saturday, 
 May 24, my two days of abstinence closed. I was quite hungry, but 
 had two sources of satisfaction ; one, that by fasting, my mind was 
 more clear, more fervent in prayer, approaching nearer to God ; 
 the other was, a witness that the young woman had been brought 
 into liberty. On this day the quarterly meeting commenced, and 
 through the whole we had a comfortable season. On my return to 
 Geneseo, I found that the young woman who covenanted to fast, 
 had obtained a hope in the Savior several hours before the two 
 days expired. Now she was happy ; and looking back to the time 
 'when she with a mournftil heart made this vow, and viewing the 
 blessed contrast in her state, her joy was full. 
 
 May 31, 1823, Elders Parmenter and Norton, with some others, 
 attended as a council from the quarterly meeting, and organized a 
 church of seventeen members. One was added the same day, and 
 the day following three were received upon baptism. 
 
 June 5, I attended a meeting in Livonia, and after the sermon 
 proposed leaving another appointment. A professor of religion 
 objected — and stated to the assembly that he once heard me say, 
 when speaking publicly of my leaving home, that I had left the 
 care of herds and flocks to seek the welfare of souls ; but he had 
 been informed that my father was a poor man, and had neither 
 flocks nor herds. He also said further — " He says he is but seven- 
 teen years old, and I appeal to this assembly to judge if he have 
 not seen more years than he states." After answering his remarks, 
 I accepted the invitation of a deist to dine Avith him ; then walked 
 to Conesus lake and crossed while it was quite rough, insomuch 
 that once a wave run over into the skiff. 
 
 From June 6th to July 9th, I labored in various towns in the 
 vicinity of Conesus and Canandaigua lakes, and saw some persuad- 
 ed to leave their sins and choose the service of Christ. 
 
 In Livonia the people seemed barred against the word ; and 
 when I inquired of certain why they repented not, they replied 
 that they were waiting for God^s time to come ; and thus cast the 
 blame of their neglect upon the Lord, saying he had withholden 
 
1>AVID MARKS. 107 
 
 the grace needful to enable them to believe. My " spirit waft 
 stirred up" within me, when I saw nearly the whole neighbor- 
 hood given to fatcdily, or the doctrine of predestination, I ap- 
 pointed a meeting to examine publicly these excuses, and request- 
 ed all the advocates of such doctrine to attend. At the appointed 
 hour the house was filled ; and after entering the assembly, I de- 
 sired some one to give me a text. But none being presented, 1 
 opened my Bible, and the words that first met my eyes, were Ps, 
 94:20 : " Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee f 
 I endeavored to show that the prince of this world sits upon the 
 doctrine of necessity, as upon a throne ; telling the wicked they 
 cannot repent, though God has commanded them to repent, and thus 
 stiUs their consciences, insinuating that the cause of their living in 
 sin, is, that God hath not given them ability to turn to him. I believe 
 the Lord filled my mouth with arguments, and many, I observed, 
 appeared quite restless. After concluding my remarks, liberty 
 was given for any to confute the reasons that had been urged to 
 prove the guilt of the sinner, and the free grace of God. After a 
 short silence, the minister of the place appeared much excited, 
 and asked, " What is the difference between the foreknowledge of 
 God and his decrees V I replied, " Decree is a determination that 
 a» event shall be. Foreknowledge is simply acquaintance with a, 
 future event. And while God knows what will be the act of a 
 free agent, he knows at the same time, that he may act otherwise, 
 because he has given that agent power to act otherwise. And 
 God's beholding his act, no more compels him to act as he does, than 
 my beholding a man act, compels him to the same. Foreknowledge^ 
 like repentance and anger, when applied to God, is a word adapted 
 to our capacity ; but with God, strictly speaking, there is no fore- 
 knowledge, because all is with him one eternal now : ^ One day — 
 as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day^ Therefore, 
 with him is no succession of events, but a man's death is as much 
 present with God as his birth ; consequently, foreknowledge can 
 go no further than afterknowledge m proving decrees. From these 
 principles I argued that foreknowledge could have no effect upon 
 the actions of men. God said to Jeremiah, when he sent him with 
 a message to the house of Judah, ' It may be that the house of 
 Judah will hear.^ Jer. 36:3. The prophet went. They did not 
 hear. God knew they woidd not hear. Still he knew they might 
 hear." After the conclusion of my remarks, the preacher observ- 
 ed, that he did not know but he agreed with the speaker in this, 
 that the foreknowledge of God has no effect on the agency of the 
 creature. The meeting closed, and the people dispersed. 
 
 Thursday, July 10, I met a large assembly in Dansville. The 
 word of the Lord was quick and powerful ; many were touched 
 
108 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 by it, and their hearts melted. One, in much distress, wept aloud 
 on account of sin, and solemnly engaged to turn to the Lord. The 
 next morning at 8 o'clock, I held a meeting on Oak hill. The sol- 
 emn power of God searched the assembly, and caused such a trem- 
 bling, that in the time of preaching, their tears dropped profusely ; 
 and one cried, " I perish ! I perish ! I peris.h !" 
 
 The ensuing nine days I labored in Geneseo, York, Le Roy, and 
 Batavia. 
 
 Sabbath, July 20, 1 spoke to a large and serious assembly in At- 
 tica village, and in the evening preached at Alexander. The Lord 
 blessed me, and filled my heart with gratitude and love. Monday, 
 I held a meeting in the south part of the town. Jesus made one 
 in our midst, and at the close of the interview, eleven came for- 
 ward for prayer. On Tuesday I returned to Geneseo to take 
 leave of my friends, and bid them adieu. I had enjoyed the satis- 
 faction of seeing the number of converts increased to thirty-five. 
 Twenty-eight of these had been baptized, and the church increas- 
 ed to thirty-three. With them I had enjoyed many happy sea- 
 sons. They were all in union, and the parting hour, as it drew 
 near, excited much solemnity in my feelings. On Wednesday I 
 gave my farewell discourse in Geneseo, and the next day in Grove- 
 land. Many, by reason of the crowd, were unable to enter the 
 house where we assembled. And when the hour of parting was 
 come, we all wept sore. A sense of the change 3 that a few years 
 would make, so affected me, that I could scarcely refrain from cry- 
 ing aloud. Alas ! thought I, no age of God's grace to man, has 
 passed without being stained by the backsliding of some, who have 
 especially shared in his favor. I looked upon the converts, who 
 were dear to my soul as life, and queried : " Who among these 
 will depart from the holy commandment ? Which of these who 
 now appear so humble and happy, will wound the Savior in the 
 house of his friends ?" — I could not designate one t' at I thought 
 would. Still the painful reflection was suggested, that it is by de- 
 grees, little by little, that the unsuspectng convert first finds him- 
 self in darkness, and at length discouraged ; then satan leads him 
 captive. " Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft." * O !' said I, 
 ' that these may ever shun its baleful influence.* After much ex- 
 hortation, I left them, and proceeding to West Bloomfield, attended 
 one meeting by the way in Richmond, and two in Bristol. I spent 
 a few days in West Bloomfield and held several meetings. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 109 
 
 CHAPTER XL 
 
 Particulars of my labors from Aug. to Dec, 1823. 
 
 Aug. 1823. About this time my soul was weighed down by- 
 viewing the shelterless condition of the wicked. Grod led me into 
 his sanctuary, and I beheld their end, their awful end. Often in 
 my sleep, while imagining myself entreating them to turn and 
 live, I lifted my voice and cried aloud, frequently waking all in the 
 house where I lodged, before my own sleep departed. Sometimes 
 I would speak a quarter, or even half an hour, before I was suffi- 
 ciently awake to know that I had no assembly. And as by preach- 
 ing from one to three times in a day, I could not free my mind, — 
 in my leisure hours I wrote an address to the unconverted of three 
 classes, " the aged, the middle aged and the youth^^ which was pub- 
 lished in a pamphlet of twenty-four pages. 
 
 Aug. 9, 1 received it from the press at Canandaigua at 2 o'clock 
 in the morning, and rode thirty-three miles to Barrington by 1 o'clock, 
 P. M. ; at which time the Benton quarterly meeting commenc- 
 ed at that place. During this meeting many of the dear followers 
 of the Lamb were quickened by the spirit. In the ministers' con- 
 ference on Monday, my brethren examined my views of the char- 
 acter of Christ ; and decided that I was not sound in doctrine. 
 While in Ohio, I staid a night with a Methodist brother, who was 
 a class leader. He warned me very pointedly against the senti- 
 ments of a people called New Lights, representing them to be 
 Unitarians and a species of modern deists — and handed me a 
 pamphlet containing their views of the character of Christ, writ- 
 ten by one of their leading men. His object was to inform me of 
 their sentiments. On retiring to my lodging, I took this book with 
 me and read till midnight. It appeared to have been written by a 
 learned man. I was but a youth, unacquainted with the doctrines 
 of men, and erroneously supposed that if called of God to preach 
 the gospel, I should be able to answer every argument that the 
 sophistry of men might suggest in support of false doctrine. I be- 
 lieved the Unitarian doctrine to be false ; but to my confusion, I 
 found myself unable to answer the arguments I read. They were 
 new to me, and struck my mind with unexpected force. Still I 
 feared that the talents of the author had been too powerful for my 
 youth, and falling on my knees, I prayed the Lord to keep me from 
 embracing error. But as I was unable to answer the arguments, I 
 imprudently yielded to their force ; for, instead of impartially and 
 thoroughly searcliing the Scripture, with a full reliance on its testi- 
 10 
 
HQ MEMOIKS OF 
 
 mony concerning the nature and character of Christ, separate from 
 all the doctrines of men, I falsely supposed that if these Unitarian 
 views were not consistent with the doctrine of Christ, the Lord 
 would enable me to discern their fallacy. And as I could not per- 
 ceive how two persons could be one being, from this supposed diffi- 
 culty, the Unitarian mode of reasoning, and the Unitarian views of 
 Christ, gained the ascendency in my mind. This circumstance 
 happened when I was sixteen years old. My manner of preach- 
 ing, however, continued the same as formerly ; for I thought my- 
 self perfectly safe in using Scripture language while speaking of 
 the Savior, and I wished from my heart to believe and preach noth- 
 ing less of my Savior than was written of him in the word of God. 
 The ministers' conference, though composed of those that firmly 
 believed in the real divinity of Christ, thought it best to renew my 
 letters. They did this, not on the principle that they believed me 
 sound in doctrine, but because they believed the Lord had sent me 
 to preach ; and they believed that the truth of God would lead me 
 out of what they called my childish thoughts. They gave me a 
 solemn charge to examine the Bible carefully and try to find the 
 truth. This advice I accepted thankfully. The issue of my re- 
 flections, the sequel will show. 
 
 Leaving Barrington, I travelled eastward some more than one 
 hundred miles to Brookfield, and on the way attended several meet- 
 ings. Sabbath, August 17, I preached twice in Brookfield, and on 
 the next day heard Lorenzo Dow at Bridgewater. His manner of 
 preaching was very peculiar — its character is generally known. I 
 could but admire his dress, as it exhibited studied convenience and 
 profit, independent from the changeable fashions of this age of su- 
 perfluities. Li the afternoon of the same day I held a meeting in 
 Plainfield, and the Spirit of the Lord was in the midst. Tuesday 
 and Wednesday, I went to Fabius, and again heard Lorenzo preach 
 to about five thousand people in a wood. Fifteen minutes aft^r 
 his meeting closed, I spoke to about seven hundred in the same 
 place, and the Lord favored me with a good degree of his Spirit. 
 Several appeared much affected, and O ! that the good seed may 
 spring and grow, and bring forth fruit unto eternal life. In the 
 evening Lorenzo preached at the Calvinistic Baptist meetinghouse. 
 His subject was the tree of life. Rev. 22:1, 2. He remarked that 
 this tree was generally thought to be Christ ; but the circumstan- 
 ces of its being represented in the feminine gender, " yielded her 
 fruit," and of its being watered by the river from the throne of 
 God and the Lamhy and of its being on either side of the river gave 
 the preference to the conclusion that it is the church. The fruit, 
 he said, was the various graces and virtues of the Christian ; and 
 the leaves signify the prayers of the church for the healing of na- 
 
DAVID MARKS. Ill 
 
 tional transgressions. In the discourse he described the different 
 classes of Christians, and said, " Of the Baptists, there are two 
 kinds ; the free-willers and the hound-willers ;" then turning to me 
 as I sat behind him in the desk, he put his face close to mine, and 
 looking me in the eyes, said ; " Do you be careful, and never get 
 to be a hound-will Baptist." This excited a smile from some, yet 
 he appeared to be perfectly serious. As he sat down he invited me 
 to speak, and accordingly I made a few remarks. 
 
 The next morning, hearing a wagon pass at break of day, I 
 arose and looking out at a window, saw Lorenzo, who had lodged 
 at another house, hastening on his way to TuUy corner, seven miles 
 distant, where he had an appointment at eight o'clock, A. M. I 
 made ready, went to the place, and called at a public house. The 
 landlord met me at the door, and said ; " Are you the Levite ?" 
 As I queried concerning his meaning, he said ; " Mr. Dow called 
 for breakfast for himself, his wife, and a little Levite, that he said 
 would soon come." He then led me to the room where Lorenzo 
 and his wife were seated at the table. Lorenzo said, " There comes 
 the Levite." A seat, plate, &c. had already been prepared for me, 
 though I had not intimated to any one the slightest intention of 
 coming to the place at this hour. 
 
 At the appointed time he seated himself on a horse-block, and 
 named his text ; " Go out — and compel them to come in.'' After 
 his introduction, he said, " We are not to suppose that God Almigh- 
 ty will bring men in by irresistible power, as I pull this man by the 
 collar of the coat."* 
 
 On the same day Lorenzo had a meeting at Otisco lake. About 
 fifteen hundred people were assembled, and before his sermon I had 
 the privilege of addressing them. His discourse was on prayer, 
 and full of instruction. In the evening I held a meeting in On- 
 andaga, and on Friday at 2'clock, P. M., in Skeneateles. At 
 three, Lorenzo preached on the green in this place to about two 
 thousand from a clause of Acts 5:35 : " Take heed to yourselves 
 what ye intend to do as touching these men." After the close of 
 his discourse, I gave notice that if any were disposed to stay I 
 
 *At the same time, seizing my collar, he drew me from my seat. This circum- 
 stance was so singular and unexpected, that it made me laugh, till I felt ashamed, 
 and I wept for having been so much off from my watch. This, and several anecdotes 
 that he related, excited considerable laughter in the assembly, and brought a trial on my 
 own mind. After meeting I asked him what his motive was in being thus eccentric; 
 and remarked that it appeared to me, the ministration of the word of God ought to be 
 with much solemnity : and such things, by exciting a trifling spirit, would prevent the 
 good that otherwise would be done. He replied, *' There is so much fatality in these 
 little villages, that many sinners will not repent ; and still they will cast the blame on 
 God, saying they cannot do otherwise; therefore they must be convinced of their false 
 doctrine which is leading them to destruction. My object is to impress truth on their 
 minds, in such a manner, and by such circumstances as are innocent, and yet will not 
 permit them to forget it. And as to their laughter, I have nothing to do with it ; they 
 must see to it." 
 
112 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 would preach to them in fifteen minutes. A thousand or fifteen 
 hundred remained, and listened attentively to the word. On the 
 Sabbath I heard Lorenzo preach to six or seven thousand in a 
 grove in Auburn. The next day I attended his appointment at 
 Waterloo, and the day following heard him preach twice in Gene- 
 va. I solicited him to attend the Holland Purchase yearly meet- 
 ing, and preach at least one discourse ; but he would give little en- 
 couragement. I went to West Bloomfield, and found that a pres- 
 ent of clothes, to the amount of five dollars, had been left with El- 
 der Millard for me, about fifteen minutes after my departure when 
 here before. May the Lord reward this kindness. At Rochester I 
 heard Lorenzo again, and enjoyed a pleasant interview with a 
 preacher who had kindly encouraged me, and strengthened my 
 hands in the first of my labors. Friday I went to Parma and preach- 
 ed free salvation ; some disliked it, but I trust good was done. 
 
 Saturday, Aug. 30, 1823, the Holland Purchase yearly meet- 
 ing opened in Sweden at ten o'clock, A. M. From impres- 
 sion of duty, I gave the first discourse, on 1 Thess. 5:19 : " Quench 
 not the spirit." At 12 o'clock, Lorenzo Dow unexpectedly enter- 
 ed the meeting. Every eye was turned upon him, and all wished 
 to hear him preach. Presently he named Songs 6:10 : " Who is 
 she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as 
 the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?" His discourse 
 was not only full of instruction, but also of the Spirit. No use- 
 less singularities damped our joy, but every heart seemed touched, 
 and we felt to bless God for this sermon. I had now heard from 
 him twelve discourses, which were aU quite instructive, though 
 the latter appeared the most powerful. In the afternoon Elder 
 Craw preached ; and in the evening, meetings were held in differ- 
 ent neighborhoods. The next day I attended the ministers' con- 
 ference, and received a letter of commendation for the service of 
 the church. 
 
 - A pious female, who was a member of the Congregationalist 
 church, and a school teacher in the place, observing that my coat 
 was much worn, prevailed on her friends to make a collection ; to 
 which she added a few dollars, and presented me a garment that 
 lasted me to travel many thousand miles, and to preach to many 
 thousand sinners. I received it as from the Lord. After attend- 
 ing one or two meetings, I went to Geneseo and Groveland in com- 
 pany with Elder Dean, and we held a few meetings which were 
 interesting. It had been said by the unbelieving, that as soon as 
 " David** was gone, the converts would turn again to the world ; 
 but now I had the satisfaction of finding this prophecy false ; for 
 they were all apparently well engaged, pursuing the way to heav- 
 en. In the last meeting we held, nearly all the converts were to- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 113 
 
 gether ; and every one present spoke of the loving kindness of the 
 Lord, and expressed a resolution to persevere in the grace of God. 
 After this we visited and preached in Naples and Poultney ; and 
 crossing Crooked lake, we went to Jersey and held several meet- 
 ings. Some were awakened, among whom, as I understood, was a 
 physician that had been a professed deist. Next we went to the Lit- 
 tle lake, where, upon short notice, a considerable assembly came out 
 to hear, most of whom were irreligious ; still they were much af- 
 fected by the word, and when dismissed, were loth to leave the 
 place. 
 
 Tuesday, Sept. 9, we arrived at Benton. I retired to a grove, 
 and dedicated myself anew to the Lord ; solemnly covenanting to 
 live nearer the fountain of goodness, that I might know the height 
 and depth of perfect love, and be more successful in winning souls 
 to Christ. Returning to the house of Elder Dean, I endeavored 
 to persuade a young woman no longer to procrastinate repentance. 
 She wept profusely, but would not promise to turn and live. Alas ! 
 how many, when the Lord calls, and makes them sensible of the 
 awful danger of living in sin, still harden their hearts and refuse 
 their best, their only eternal friend admission, till sooner than they 
 are aware, they find themselves on a bed of languishing — on the 
 verge of the eternal world — unprepared to meet the awful 
 " swellings of Jordan !" O Savior ! help me, teach me to persuade 
 them. 
 
 Wednesday I held a meeting in Benton, and the next day preach- 
 ed at Jerusalem on the " Judgment to come." Some were touched 
 by the Spirit, and wept under the word. On Friday, I visited my 
 youngest brother, then about seven years old, who was living with 
 a man on Bluff Point. I found him in a field, but he did not know 
 me. I told him I was his brother David. lie wept' — but said 
 nothing. The recollection of past changes touched my heart, and 
 looking upon my little brother I wept, and raised a prayer to God 
 to protect him from the evils of the world, and have mercy on his 
 soul. After staying a few hours, I bade him adieu, and went to^ 
 Dresden. 
 
 In this village I spoke to an assembly, partly attentive and part- 
 ly confused. During the sermon one or two stones were thrown 
 at me, but did no injury, except to witness against those, who thus 
 showed their enmity to God and to their own souls. As I retired 
 from the meeting, some one threw part of a pail of water upon me, 
 and not satisfied with this, threw stones till I was out of reach. 
 But as David said nothing to Shimei when he cast stones at him, so 
 I thought best to pass in silence, yet groaning in spirit, and reflect- 
 ing on the words of Christ: " O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that kill- 
 est the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how 
 10* 
 
114 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen 
 gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not !" 
 
 On Saturday 13, I attended monthly meeting with the church 
 in Benton, and preached a short discourse on Col. 2:6. The breth- 
 ren appeared to renew their strength, and resolve through the 
 grace of God to be his faithful servants. The next day I held 
 two meetings in Milo. Much solemnity and weeping were in the 
 assemblies, and I could but hope some good fruit will appear in 
 eternity. In the evening, I preached at Benton, and it pleased the 
 Lord to favor me with unusual liberty. Monday was spent in vis- 
 iting and praying from house to house. I delivered a discourse in 
 the evening, and the banner of the Lord seemed to be over my 
 soul. The next day I met another congregation in Milo, and while 
 speaking, the people were clothed with much solemnity. In the . 
 mean time, an enemy came without, and close by the window at 
 which I stood, gave a hideous yell, and then fled. Ah ! thought I^ 
 poor guilty man may flee now, to keep his guilt secret — ^but a day 
 will come, when he would gladly flee beneath a falling mountain, 
 to hide from " Him that sitteth on the throne^'' and from the wrath 
 brought upon him by his sins. But alas ! he will not be able to 
 find a refuge. 
 
 Wednesday I was attacked by a fever ; but having an appoint- 
 ment some miles distant, I thought it duty to attend. It rained 
 considerably, and on reaching the place I was very wet, and found 
 but few collected. After preaching to them I returned to Elder 
 Dean's, and passed a very restless night. Feeling some better the 
 next day, I accompanied Elder Dean to the west pai't of Junius, 
 and gave a discourse. Friday I visited my father's family, and 
 after a short stay proceeded to Lyons, and preached in the even- 
 ing. Saturday and Sunday, Sept, 20 and 21, I attended a two- 
 days' meeting in Sodus. This was an interesting season, and good, 
 I believe, was done. O that fruit may hereafter appear. 
 
 During five days following, I held six meetings in Williamson* 
 in which I enjoyed the free Spirit, and saw some good signs of re- 
 pentance among the people. From Sept. 26 to the 1st of Oct., I 
 held four meetings in West Bloomfield, two in East Bloomfield, 
 and one in Mendon. Some of these were solemn, and a few souls 
 appeared to be penitent. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 1 went to Le Roy, 
 and enjoyed a pleasant interview Avith my eldest brother. He ac- 
 companied me to Ogden to attend a general meeting on Saturday 
 and Sabbath, Oct. 4 and 5. We had considerable good preaching, 
 Oct. 11 and 12, I attended the Benton quarterly meeting, in the 
 town of Galen. The weather was rainy and quite cold, still we 
 enjoyed a precious meeting. On Monday and Tuesday I met at- 
 tentive assemblies in Junius. While addressing them, it pleased 
 
t)A.ytt> MARKS. Il5 
 
 tKe Lord to send his light into my soul ; and I felt to thank his 
 name for the verification of his promise : " Xo / am with yoxi ah 
 way even unto the end of the worlds When dismissed the people 
 were not in haste to depart, but remained as though they were 
 still hungry for the word of life. Wednesday 1 held a meeting in 
 Phelps, and the day following had an appointment at Manchester. 
 In the latter place I was a stranger, and knew not the state of the 
 people. As I drew near I felt a solemn impression that God would 
 immediately revive his work, insomuch that upon my arrival, I 
 stated to several my expectation of seeing the salvation of God 
 in Manchester. A large number were convened, and I felt the 
 special aid of Heaven while speaking to them. But nothing unu- 
 sual occured till a young woman cried aloud for mercy at the con- 
 cluding prayer. As soon as she had opportunity she addressed the 
 assembly, told them she was a sinner, and needed salvation, and 
 gave an affecting invitation to her associates to go with her to seek 
 Jesus. Many were much impressed, wept bitterly, and from this 
 time began to seek the Lord. The next morning, a little after the 
 sun was risen, we had another meeting, in which several were 
 wounded by the king's arrows ; and it was truly a melting hour. 
 
 After preaching twice in Williamson, I passed to Ontario, where 
 the Bethany quarterly meeting opened on Saturday, Oct. 18, 1823. 
 This day, though heavenly to many, was to me dark and melan- 
 choly ; but in the evening, while preaching near the ridge, the 
 Lord comforted my soul and made me happy. O how abundant is 
 his goodness. He satisfieth the hungry with food. Sabbath morn- 
 ing, worship commenced at nine o'clock. Elder Jenkins preached 
 in the Spirit from Heb. 11:10: " For he looked for a city which 
 liath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." This was fol- 
 lowed by an instructive and refreshing discourse from Elder J. N. 
 Hinkley, upon Eph. 2:8 : " For by grace are ye saved through 
 fliith ; and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God." In the 
 latter part of the day, after another sermon had been given, I be- 
 lieve the Lord opened my mouth on Matt. 7:14: "Because strait 
 is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few 
 there be that find it." Not a cloud veiled my mind, — I felt the 
 power of the blessed God in my soul, and on my tongue. This 
 quarterly meeting, by the grace of God, was made a blessing to 
 many, and great solemnity clothed the concluding scene. Many 
 retired with a desire to become acquainted with the Savior ; and 
 not long after, several obtained their desire. In the evening I at- 
 tended a meeting in the south part of the town ; and on the next 
 day witnessed a pleasant scene — the baptism of six happy con- 
 verts, Avho were added to the church in Ontario. On the evening 
 of the same day, I held a meeting in Williamson ; and as the in- 
 
116 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 quiring Greeks showed their solicitude saying, " Sir, we would see 
 Jesus," (John 12:21,) so eight or ten in this meeting manifested the 
 same desire ; and so deeply were some of them affected, that they 
 wept aloud. 
 
 Tuesday, I returned to an appointment in Manchester, and re- 
 joiced to find that some who were in much distress Avhen I left the 
 place, had obtained deliverance and were now happy in the Lord. 
 The next day we assembled again in the same place : some mount- 
 ed on wings of love, while others in the bitterness of their souls 
 cried aloud to the Lord for mercy. In the evening I enjoyed a 
 good meeting at Williamson, and the next day, at ten o'clock, A. 
 M., a powerful and awakening time was experienced in Ontario : a 
 number, deeply impressed, manifested a determination to turn and 
 live. The same day, I preached to an assembly in Manchester. 
 On the day following we met again. The assembly was large, and 
 our interview was crowned with the special presence of God, which 
 touched many hearts, and caused a great w^eeping throughout the 
 assembly. 
 
 On Saturday, there fell a tedious storm of rain and snow, and 
 having an appointment the next day in West Bloomfield, I rode 
 twenty-five miles and took a cold, much to the injury of my health. 
 Sabbath, Oct. 26, I preached twice in the same town, and was 
 much opposed by a Universalist. On the day following I returned 
 to Manchester, and spoke from Eccl. 8:11 ; — a few Avere awaken- 
 ed. Tuesday and Wednesday I preached in Williamson and Man- 
 chester ; in the latter place we were again much blessed. The 
 glory of God filled the hearts of his people — ^fifteen came forward 
 for prajer, and kneeling, we called on Him who " hath power on 
 earth to forgive sins." I held another meeting in this place, one 
 in Livonia, and three in Gix)veland, — in all of which my blessed 
 Master was with me and gave me freedom. 
 
 Nov. 4, 1823. This day completes my eighteenth year. And 
 while I look on my past life, and review the afflicting scenes 
 through which the Lord hath led me; w^hen I contemplate the 
 great good that my God has bestowed on me in childhood, I am 
 constrained to wonder and admire. I think my soul feels the im- 
 portance of improving the talent committed to the charge of my 
 youth. The language of my heart is, O Lord, help me to live to 
 thy glory, and in all that I do, have an eye single to thy praise. 
 Strengthen me, that if my life be spared, I may spend this, my 
 nineteenth year, in thy service, and proclaim salvation to a world 
 lying in wickedness — that when my course shall be concluded, it 
 may be finished with joy. 
 
 From the 4th to the 30th of Nov. I labored in various towns ly- 
 ing in the vicinity of Canandaigiia lake, and saw several conver- 
 
DAVID MARK8. 117 
 
 sions. In Canandaigua, I saw my Baptist friend, that nearly three 
 years before took me from the village to his house when my soul 
 was in affliction, and advised me to return home. Now, he told 
 me he had changed his mind, and advising me to continue my la- 
 bors, bid me " God speed." In Middlebury and the east part of 
 Attica, a considerable number were powerfully awakened, and nev- 
 er rested till they gave their hearts to the Savior. In these places, 
 the children of God, seeing a cloud overshadow the church, were 
 filled with ecstacy. O, what an hour of joy it is, when the Lord 
 hears the groanings of his children, and comes down to deliver. 
 
 Sunday, Nov. 30, I preached in Attica and Alexander, and the 
 next day proceeded to an appointment in Batavia. Here, calling 
 on brother Seymor, I met with an affectionate reception, and found 
 that my sleigh, which had been left there through the summer, was 
 taken away the evening previous. A part of it was put on a hay 
 stack about a quarter of a mile distant, and the other part was 
 hung on a broken tree. As only one or two little things were in- 
 jured, I would have thanked these nightly adventurers, could I 
 have known them, for restraining their spirit to this little injury. 
 In the meantime I understood that many slanderous reports were 
 in circulation, and some were using much effort to injure me, and 
 had reported that I would not attend my appointment. These 
 things, however, moved me not, for I had to reflect, that as yet not 
 quite " all manner of eviV^ had been spoken of me. A goodly 
 number attended my appointment, and the Lord favored us with an 
 impressive season. I believe he gave me words to speak, and thus 
 it was easy preaching. 
 
 Dec. 2, 1823, I preached in Bethany, and the next day in Mid- 
 dlebury. At this meeting several weighty testimonies were given 
 by converts, who had lately been brought into the fold of Christ. 
 More than twenty covenanted to seek the Lord from this time, and 
 gave me their hand as a sign of their covenant. Friday evening, 
 I attended worship in the west part of the town, and enjoyed a re- 
 freshing time, one not soon to be forgotten. Sunday, Dec. 7, I 
 spent on the town line of Batavia. In the forenoon we had an in- 
 teresting season, and in the afternoon it seemed as if the Holy 
 Ghost descended and filled the house. Many wept, and many re- 
 joiced. Bless the Lord for this visitation. In the remaining part 
 of this week I held meetings in Stafford, Elba, Clarkson, Parma, 
 and Ogden, and felt that I was not alone. In some of these places 
 the state of engagedness was low. 
 
 I next spent six days in Groveland and Geneseo, and held sev- 
 eral meetings. The Lord was in our midst, and filled his children 
 with his Spirit. I felt to say with the Psalmist, " One thing have 
 I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after, — that I may dwell in 
 
11^ MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the house of the Lord all the days of my life." At this time, near- 
 ly a suit of new clothes was given me by several females, who 
 had been converted in the late revival. I felt to thank the Lord, 
 and pray that they may provide for themselves " garments that 
 wax not old." 
 
 Sunday, Dec. 21, I preached my last discourse in these parts for 
 the present, and to me it was a solemn time, for the saints in these 
 towns were particularly dear to my heart; yet the joyful hope of 
 reaching a land where there will be no more parting was a source 
 of great consolation. Monday, I left at the dawn of day, and staid 
 the night in Farmington with a deist. We had much disputation, 
 and I could but groan in spirit while hearing his light and trifling 
 remarks on that religion which alone can prepare us for the joys 
 of heaven. O that God may have mercy on his soul. Tuesday, I 
 preached a farewell sermon in Manchester, and enjoyed a good 
 time. A collection was taken and given me at this meeting, to as- 
 sist in bearing my expenses to New England. Wednesday, though 
 very blustering and tedious, I rode forty miles to Benton, where I 
 enjoyed a sweet refreshing in the worship of God. Friday, I re- 
 turned to Junius, and found a step-mother in the empty place of 
 the departed. 
 
 CHAPTER XIL 
 
 My Seco7id Visit to New England. 
 
 In Junius I sta.id two days, and attended the monthly meeting of 
 the church to which I w^as attached. I also met two assemblies, to 
 whom the Lord helped me to speak the word of life. 
 
 Dec. 28. The time had now come that called me to attend a 
 line of appointments leading to New Hampshire, which had been 
 given out more than two years. Soon I expected to be in a land 
 of strangers, where often the secret places would be preferred to 
 the cold-hearted society of those who neither know nor feel a 
 stranger's sorrow. My heart was full, and though I seldom at- 
 tempted to sing, I gave vent to my feelings by trying to sing the 
 following lines of Colby. 
 
 "O, if poor sinners did but know 
 What I for them do undergo. 
 They would not treat me with contempt, 
 Nor slight me when 1 say repent," &c. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 119 
 
 I retired alone, and entreated the Lord to reconcile me to my 
 lot, and bless my labors in this journey. I then returned to bid 
 my father farewell. As he took me by the hand, he said, " My 
 son, it is harder parting than it ever was before." I met an ap- 
 pointment in the evening in Galen, and, Oct. 31, arrived at Brook* 
 field in Madison county. In this town I spent several days, preach- 
 ed eleven times, and saw several awakened to feel their need of an 
 interest in Christ. After this I gave six discourses in Plainfield, 
 one in Burlington, and one at the Free Communion Baptist meeting 
 house in Winfield. Some of these were attended with much so- 
 lemnity, particularly the lawSt. Jan. 16, 1824, I left those parts, 
 went to Western, and met with brother Jacob W. Darling, a young 
 preacher from Rhode Island. I attended meetings with him on the 
 17th and 18th of the month. These interviews were graced by 
 the presence of the great Head of the church — joy beamed on the 
 countenance of Zion, and her children made mention of the name 
 of the Lord. On Monday, backsliders confessed their wanderings, 
 and returned weeping. In the evening I attended a meeting at 
 the east part of the town. 
 
 On Tuesday I preached in Floyd, and enjoyed a sweet visita- 
 tion of the Holy Spirit. Some were * pricked in their heart' and 
 wept bitterly ; at the close of the meeting a young man came 
 trembling, and giving me his hand, entreated me to pray the Lord 
 to have mercy on him. After going to Western and preaching 
 twice, I went to Rome and spoke to an attentive audience in the 
 court-house; favorable impressions seemed to be made on the 
 minds of some. Jan. 28, I had an appointment at a school house 
 in Floyd, but some opposers appointed a spelling school at the 
 same place, and said they would prevent our meeting in the house, 
 if they had to keep us out with clubs, so we repaired to the Bap- 
 tist meeting house. This proved rather an advantage to us, for 
 not half the assembly could have entered the school house. I spoke 
 from Heb. 12:25 : " See that ye refuse not him that speaketh,^^ &e. 
 The Holy Spirit rested on the people, and many trembled at the 
 word of the Lord. Wednesday, I preached on Quaker Hill, from 
 Prov. 16:18, ^' Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spir- 
 it before a fall" I spoke very pointedly on the destruction of the 
 wicked; yet a professed Universalist arose weeping, and said 
 they had heard the truth, and entreated the assembly to receive it. 
 
 Pursuing my journey eastward, I preached several times in the 
 towns through which I passed, and saw some of the obdurate and 
 high minded weep for their sins, and, I trust, persuaded to forsake 
 them. 
 
 On Wednesday, Feb. 9, I visited a school in Oanajoharie for the 
 deaf and dumb, and enjoyed much satisfaction m conversing with 
 
120 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 the scholars by writing. They manifested much seriousness and 
 reverence on seeing the name of God, and seemed to have solemn 
 ideas of their accountability. In the evening, I attended a meet- 
 ing in this town, and the next day one in Root. Saturday, I met 
 an assembly in Charlestown, and on the Sabbath preached again 
 in Root. The Lord blessed me with freedom. An unconverted 
 man, with whom I staid the night previous, promised in tears to 
 seek and serve the Lord. One of his family was serious also, and 
 desired prayer. Sabbath evening, I spoke to a solemn auditory in 
 the north part of Charlestown, and the next day with much free- 
 dom in Charlestown meeting house. On Tuesday I went to Flor- 
 ida, and preached to a weeping assembly ; and the day following 
 addressed a large congi'egation that seemed hardened in sin. A 
 cloud hung over us, and but little light found way to the people. 
 Alas ! how ' slow of heart' are men to believe, and how many wait 
 for conviction, till they are convicted by the miseries of a hapless 
 world ! The next day I preached again in Florida. 
 
 Friday, Feb. 20, I commenced attending my appointments of 
 long standing, and preached to about one hundred in a ball-room 
 at a place called Yankee street. This was a very good time. In 
 the afternoon I proceeded on my journey in a sleigh. A thaw com- 
 menced, and for ten miles before I reached Schenectady the ground 
 was mostly bare. I now had to walk ; and as there appeared no 
 prospect of snow, the way was very gloomy. On arriving at Schen- 
 ectady, I found my appointment had been forgotten. I dined with 
 brother Smith, a Methodist preacher, and proceeded on my way, 
 querying in regard to duty. I was among strangers, neither able 
 to purchase a saddle, to hire my horse kept, nor to reach my ap- 
 pointments on foot. But loth to fail of them, I reached Troy, after 
 much fatigue, in the evening, and found the people through mistake 
 had assembled in the afternoon. Sabbath morning, Feb. 22, I pro- 
 ceeded through a cold snow storm to Brunswick, preached to an 
 assembly at nine o'clock, and felt much comforted. I succeeded in 
 borrowing an old saddle at this place, and proceeded to Pittstown. 
 At two o'clock, P. M. I spoke to an assembly in the Baptist meet- 
 ing house, and some appeared to be much affected. In the even- 
 ing I held a meeting in Hoosac, and the next morning met another 
 assembly at nine o'clock in the Baptist meeting house, which was 
 quite crowded. The Master of assemblies stood by me, blessed be 
 his name. The hearts of the people were opened, and they gave 
 me about three dollars. 
 
 Passing through Bennington, I hasted over the Green Mount- 
 ains, in order, if possible, to reach my appointment in Wilmington 
 at nine o'clock the next morning. The snow was about eighteen 
 inches deep on the mountain, and the road little broken. Night 
 
DAVID MARKS, 121 
 
 «ame on — and soon I entered a wood where it was five miles to the 
 next house. The evening was cold, and my clothes thin for trav- 
 elling on horseback. My feelings on this occasion may be more 
 easily conceived by those who have been in similar circumstances, 
 than by such as usually sit by their firesides during the bleak winds 
 of winter, and enjoy the society of their friends. 
 
 An opening at length appeared ; I returned thanks to the Lord, 
 and soon procured lodgings at a tavern. The next morning I trav- 
 elled ten miles, and reached my appointment in season. A consid- 
 erable number met in the Congregationalist meeting house, among 
 whom was a woman ninety-two years of age, who had walked near- 
 ly two miles this cold morning to attend the meeting. She appear- 
 ed to have a blessed time, and rejoiced that she had come. I 
 spoke to a few in Marlborough the same day, and the day after 
 met about two hundred in Dummerston. Here was one of the 
 churches that had separated from the Calvinistic Baptists, and es- 
 tablished themselves on free principles. Some, solicitous of hear- 
 ing a Free-will Baptist^ had come more than thirty miles to this 
 meeting. I endeavored to give a summary of the principles of 
 Bible doctrine, and enjoyed much freedom. Considerable serious- 
 ness was manifested in the assembly. The bridge at Brattleboro' 
 having been swept away, I crossed West river, and proceeded to 
 the Connecticut river, expecting to cross at a ferry ; but the boat 
 being bound in ice, I passed up the river a few miles to another 
 ferry, and crossed at 8 o'clock in the evening, with some difficulty 
 and danger, as the river was full of ice floating down with the cur- 
 rent. The next morning, I proceeded early through a storm of 
 snow, seven miles to Chesterfield, and at nine o'clock spoke to an 
 assembly of about two hundred people. Many seemed deeply af- 
 fected. At twelve o'clock I started for Stoddard, twenty-three 
 miles distant, where I had an appointment for the evening. A lit- 
 tle before sunset, when still six miles from the place, I found the 
 road filled with drifted snow, and could proceed but slowly. I had 
 to face a piercing wind, with rain and hail — ^and it was soon so 
 dark that I could not discern the road. At length I found that 
 my beast was wandering in a field, and I knew not where to go. 
 My clothes were frozen around me — ^the wind had increased to a 
 gale — and soon my way was again hedged by drifts. I thought of 
 my affectionate friends sitting by their pleasant firesides, and quer- 
 ied whether I should perish by the cold, or again enjoy their soci- 
 ety. But the reflection, that not even a hair of my head should 
 fall without my Heavenly Father's notice, comforted my spirit. 
 Presently I saw the glimmering of a distant light, — ^guided by it, I 
 found the road, and at eight o'clock arrived at Stoddard. Finding 
 the assembly had dispersed, I put up at an inn, and was very ha»- 
 11 
 
122 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 py in the reflection that my blessed Master had prepared for me a 
 home, where through grace, I hoped soon to rest for ever from the 
 arduous toils of a travelling life. 
 
 Friday, on my way to Bradford, I found the road again obstruct- 
 ed by drifts. I took down the fence, and went in the field till I 
 came to a stone wall, then passed into the road and led my horse. 
 After passing such difficulties in a number of places, I reached an 
 appointment at two o'clock, and in the evening met another assem- 
 bly in the north part of the town. During the six days following, 
 I met eight appointments in different towns between Bradford and 
 Enfield. From these labors I expect to meet some fruits in eter- 
 nity. 
 
 Friday, March 5, having been inclined to go to the south, I 
 hoped that somewhere in that direction, the Lord would grant un- 
 to me to see his salvation. Accordingly I went about thirty-five 
 miles, and held a meeting in Bradford. This was a solemn, 
 awakening time, and it was impressed on my mind, that the Lord 
 had a work for me to do in this place. A woman that was an op- 
 poser of religion, and had not attended a meeting for several years, 
 was excited by curiosity to come and hear the youth. It pleased 
 God to send conviction to her heart ; she became much distressed, 
 asked forgiveness of those whom she had persecuted for righteous- 
 ness' sake, and sought the Lord night and day, till she professed to 
 find comfort. I held meetings in Bradford generally every day, 
 and sometimes two or three times a day. The " true light" shone 
 upon the people, and in almost every meeting some were awaken- 
 ed. Soon the songs of redeemed souls gladdened the church mili- 
 tant, and doubtless made the angels rejoice. As is usual in revi- 
 vals, our meetings were crowded, and the hearts of many were 
 seriously impressed by the word of the Lord. Sometimes the spir- 
 itual testimonies of the converts added much to the interest of the 
 meetings. Some backsliders were reclaimed, and took away the 
 stumbling blocks they had laid — ^many lukewarm professors were 
 awakened — and almost every day some requested the prayers of 
 saints, and kneeled, seeking the mercy of God. 
 
 On one occasion I had quite a severe trial. Meeting a consid- 
 erable assembly in the south-east part of the town one afternoon, I 
 opened the meeting by prayer, and named a text as usual. After 
 speaking about five minutes, a dark cloud veiled my mind. With 
 much difficulty I uttered a few words — then all was closed up, and 
 finding nothing to say I took my seat. After weeping a few min- 
 utes, I told the people God had given me no message to them, and 
 therefore I could not preach. In half an hour they dispersed, and 
 I started for Fishersfield. But the trial I now endured no tongue 
 can tell, no pen describe. Egyptian dai-kness covered my mind, 
 
DAVID MASKS. 123 
 
 and I was loth any one that attended the meeting should see my 
 face. It seemed as if the Lord had forsaken me, and all comfort 
 had fled from my bosom. My life appeared as a vapor — ^like a 
 solitary shadov?^, a worthless thing, — and once I dismounted, and 
 turned aside to pray the Lord to take me out of the world. But 
 a monitor within whispering, " This will be sin," I again mounted 
 my horse, and as I passed along, strewed my tears by the way for 
 nine miles. I arrived at the house of Deacon Morse, where an 
 appointment had been given out for me on that evening, yet my 
 spirit had found no rest, and I desired a place in the wilderness to 
 bemoan my sorrow. Soon I found myself about a quarter of a 
 mile distant, lying upon the snow in a wood, and pouring out my 
 anguish in sighs, groans and tears. I thought it had been good for 
 me if I " had never been born." The devil tempted me with 
 deism and atheism ; my mind was thrown into much confusion, and 
 I often cried, " Lord, have mercy on me ;" yet I found no relief. 
 Night came on. I returned to my appointment, as the people 
 were collecting. I thought they would be disappointed ; for I had 
 concluded not to preach without a change of feeling, and this I did 
 not expect. But just as the people were seated ready to hear, it 
 seemed as though the dear Redeemer came and touched me ; in an 
 instant all my doubts fled away. He unveiled the beauties of his 
 face, and the very room and assembly appeared to shine with the 
 glory of God. I arose and spoke with much freedom, and bless- 
 ings were poured upon the assembly. Thus the Lord brought me 
 through a fiery trial ; and although while enduring it, I could see 
 no good that could arise from it, my heart now felt to bless Grod 
 even for this visitation, — for it had increased my faith, and taught 
 me more effectually my entire dependence on God. On my re- 
 turn to Bradford, I was told that a professor of religion had said of 
 me : " The Lord has not sent him to preach, for if he had, his mouth 
 would not have been closed" One that was not a professor, re- 
 plied, " If he has come without heing sent by God, I should suppose 
 that he could preach as well at one time as at another." I under- 
 stood that an aged sinner who attended the meeting, went home 
 much affected, saying, " We are so wicked that God will give his 
 servant no message to us." 
 
 Soon after this, a deist came to my appointment, and while the 
 people were gathering, he thought to embarrass me by his argu- 
 ments. In a little time he affected to be disgusted by my talk, and 
 left the assembly. I understood that he returned home and took 
 his bed, saying he was sick, but would not have a physician, or re- 
 ceive any food for nearly three days, when he exclaimed, " My 
 sickness is not of the body, but of the soul ! O, what have I been 
 about these forty years !" Then he sent to a Christian friend to 
 
IM MEMOIRS OF 
 
 come and pray for him. This was the first time he had ever per- 
 mitted prayer in his house. In a short time he professed to be 
 converted, and expressed great astonishment that he could have 
 neglected the Savior and his own soul so long as he had. As he 
 had been a great opposer of Christianity, this change in him touch- 
 ed the hearts of several. The work now revived afresh, and as- 
 sumed an aspect still more promising. In a short time others pro- 
 fessed to come to the knowledge of the truth. 
 
 During my stay in Bradford, which was six or seven weeks, 
 twelve or fifteen named Christ. Several of them were baptized 
 by Elder Rowe, who resided in the place, and were added to the 
 Free-will Baptist church. Many others were awakened, but did 
 not at this time give their hearts to God. I also visited and preach- 
 ed in Hillsborough, Henniker, Hopkinton, Warner, Salisbury, Sut- 
 ton, Fishersfield, Wilmot, Springfield, Enfield, Newport, and some 
 other towns. In a few of these places I held five or six meetings 
 each, and they were blessed to the awakening of some. 
 
 Leaving Bradford, I went to West Windsor, Vt., and enjoyed 
 one or two good meetings. The brethren here gave me about sev- 
 en dollars, principally in clothing, which I greatly needed. In the 
 last of April I visited Weare, held three meetings, and enjoyed a 
 profitable interview with Elder Hezekiah Buzzell ; — ^he baptized 
 two during my stay. 
 
 Saturday and Sabbath, May 8 and 9, 1824, 1 attended the Rhode 
 Island quarterly meeting, at Taunton, Mass. The assembly wa^ 
 large, and the preaching interesting. I had the privilege of deliv- 
 ering two discourses at this meeting, and in one the Lord gave me 
 freedom. After the quarterly meeting, I preached in Rehoboth, 
 Attleborough, and in some other towns in Massachusetts. Some 
 were seriously affected,. and in one meeting the cries of anxious sin- 
 ners were heard. I next went to Rhode Island, and attended a 
 meeting with Elder Greene in North Providence, where a revival 
 had just commenced. The Lord was in the midst, and a great 
 weeping was in the assembly. Several cried with earnestness, 
 " Lord, have mercy ! Lord, have mercy V* At the close, ten kneel- 
 ed for prayer. 
 
 I staid sixteen days in Rhode Island, and each day held meet- 
 ings in different towns, among which were Cranston, Johnston, 
 Smithfield, Burrillville, and Gloucester. Having read Colby's 
 journal of his labors in some of these towns, when the Lord visited 
 his people, and made Zion like a fruitful field, I expected to find 
 the brethren engaged in holy humility and fervent devotion. But 
 not considering the changes that are made by time, I felt some dis- 
 appointed. 
 
DAVID MA^KS. 125 
 
 In the latter part of May, I visited my relatives in Burlington, 
 Conn. My grandfather and uncle welcomed me affectionately. A 
 revival in this place had lately gladdened Zion, in which about one 
 hundred had professed to experience regenerating grace. Some 
 of my relatives were among the converts. I held one meeting 
 with them, and it was a weeping time. In Middletown, I enjoyed 
 a pleasant interview with my uncle, Elder Josiah Graves, and his 
 family. Two of his children were engaged in the service of God. 
 His eldest son had lately commenced preaching with considerable 
 success. I attended two meetings, felt much freedom in speaking, 
 and several were solemnly affected. 
 
 On Monday, taking leave of my kind relatives, I went to Hart- 
 ford, and the next day, June 1, 1824, to Tolland, where an Indian 
 mulatto was to be executed for taking the life of his wife. This 
 deed was done when he was intoxicated. As I drew near the place 
 of execution, and saw thousands running to the field of death, great 
 solemnity filled my mind. And on rising a hill, the fatal gallows, 
 surrounded by a vast multitude of people, met my sight, and re- 
 minded me of the judgment of the great day, when the nations 
 shall assemble before Jehovah to receive their sentence according 
 to the deeds done in the body. Alas ! then will the ungodly have 
 their sentence, to be cast into the burning lake, executed on them, 
 and none will deliver them. I stood near the scaffold, and at a 
 little distance beheld the gloomy prison which confined the unhap- 
 py criminal. Soon he was taken from his dreary cell and seated 
 in a wagon on his coffin. Enclosed by the officers and guard, and' 
 surrounded by the multitude, the criminal advanced slowly — the 
 sound of the ' death march^ now fell on the ear with more awful' 
 solemnity than any music I ever heard. They came to the fatal 
 spot — the convict alighted — ^w^alked to the stairs, and ascended the- 
 scaffold apparently with indifference. I was told that he had no 
 hope in God! yet he appeared to be senseless of the awful change 
 of this hour, and exhibited a striking instance of the obduracy of ' 
 the human heart, when inured to crime, and its feelings destroyed 
 by strong drinh He looked scrutinizingly at the gallows, scaffold,, 
 and all the preparations for his exit ; and appeared anxious that 
 the rope should be placed easily on his neck. This being done, he 
 stood erect — ^the plank fell — and he was silent in death. I looked 
 upon the people, many were in tears, and some had fainted. Then, 
 thought I, this man suffers justly for his crime, receiving his due 
 reward : yet how many tender sympathies are awakened for him, 
 and how many tender females are weeping at his fate. But when 
 the Savior of the world suffered ! what a difference ! He walked 
 to the place of execution, " hearing his cross" while on him was 
 " laid the iniquity of us allT His disciples had forsaken him and 
 11* 
 
tf$ MEBIOIKS Of 
 
 fled ! he was surrounded by the persecuting Jews, and the unfeel- 
 ing Romans. He suffered not a momentary pain by a rope, but 
 hung three dreadful hours nailed upon the cross, notwithstanding 
 he had already " sweat as it were great drops of hlood^^ in Gethsem- 
 ane. But who was there to sympathise and weep when Jesus suf- 
 fered ? True, the beloved disciple, with three or four holy women, 
 whose affection had summoned more courage than the apostles had, 
 stood by the cross of their dying Lord, and were melted by the 
 sight. But though so small a number in this world felt and wept 
 when Christ was crucified — yet, one that never wept before, now 
 veiled his face — the sun could not endure the sight — " and there 
 was darkness over all the earth." The rocks too, felt, and rent 
 asunder — and the slumber of the dead was broken. 
 
 I retired from the scene with a heai-t full of feeling, and return^ 
 ed to Rhode Island, preaching by the way. 
 
 On Thursday, I journeyed forty miles to Littleton, Mass. where 
 I had an appointment. This was made in the street, as it was dif- 
 ficult in these parts, to find an open door for a dissenter from what 
 is esteemed orthodoxy. Having mistook as to the distance, I ar- 
 lived at the place one day before the appointment, and calling at a 
 tavern I desired that my horse might be taken care of. The land- 
 lord, knowing that I had given the appointment, said, " No." I 
 asked the reason, as he kept a public house. He said he would 
 not encourage me by entertaining me. I asked him if my money 
 was not as valuable as that of another. He then changed his tone, 
 saying, " O yes, if you will pay me, I will willingly entertain you." 
 The time passed away very slowly, and was principally spent in a 
 field, fasting. Tiie next morning a neighbor that came in, asked 
 if I was the one that appointed the meeting, and whether I had 
 credentials. I handed them to him ; he read them, and said, "Ah. 
 then you belong to the Free-will Baptists ? Well, what do the 
 Free-will Baptists believe ?" I named free agency as one of their 
 sentiments. He began to argue against it, and condemned it as not 
 orthodox. I said, they believe that " Christ tasted death for every 
 man." He treated this sentiment in the same manner that he did 
 the other. And thus he disputed every principle that did not ac- 
 cord Math his own views, insomuch that I could not find opportuni- 
 ty to answer his question. After disputing the doctrine that I had 
 advanced for some hours, he invited me to his house, and there I 
 could have very little conversation except controversy. At lengtli 
 he gave an invitation for the meeting to be held at his house. I 
 enjoyed much freedom, and many were melted into tears ; among 
 them was the man who opened his house for the assembly. After 
 meeting, I paid my bill at the tavern, and left the town happy in 
 Grod. I met a crowded assembly at Mount Vernon, and many 
 
DAVID JIARKS. 127 
 
 showed signs of contrition. After meeting closed, I was repri- 
 manded for preaching free salvation, free agency, &c. ; but as thig 
 doctrine had just been powerful in touching the hearts of sinners, I 
 was the more confirmed that it was the doctrine of Christ. 
 
 Saturday, June 12, 1824, 1 attended the New Hampshire year- 
 ly meeting at Weare. The day was principally occupied in hear- 
 ing reports of revivals in different parts of the yearly meeting, and 
 the testimonies and exhortations of the saints. Accounts w^ere also 
 given of some glorious revivals in the state of Maine. Sabbath 
 forenoon, Elder John Buzzell spoke about two hours. Though 
 aged, his eye seemed not dim, nor the patience of the people wea- 
 ried. In the afternoon, the galleries being much crowded, began to 
 give way; many w^ere frightened, and some confusion ensued. 
 Several lefl them, and soon the assembly was composed. Elder 
 Enoch Place then preached a long and affecting sermon — many 
 hearts were touched, and the meeting closed with signs of good* 
 On Monday, I attended the Ministers' conference, which was inter- 
 estmg and conducted with much harmony. 
 
 Tuesday and Wednesday I went seventy miles to Sandwich, in 
 the easterly part of New Hampshire. At this time there was some 
 revival in the place, principally under the labors of brother David 
 Moody, a youth of nineteen years. I spent nine days laboring 
 with them, and preached thirteen sermons. It pleased the Lord to 
 give us heavenly seasons. We saw several new instances of con- 
 viction — ^heard the cries of the penitent, and sometimes the songs 
 of the delivered. At one meeting, within the space of twenty 
 minutes, four were brought into liberty, and praised God for salva- 
 tion. ' Grlory to the Lord for all his mercies.' Some articles of 
 clothing were given me, and were thankfully received. When I left 
 the place, about twenty had been hopefully converted, and it was 
 thought the good work had but just begun. 
 
 In ihQ latter part of the month, I visited several towns in the 
 state of Maine, and enjoyed some blessed seasons in preaching 
 Christ. I held a meeting in Parsonsfield, and was affectionately 
 received by Elder John Buzzell, a faithful minister of the gospel- 
 He was contemporary with Randall, and had spent the greater 
 ])art of his life in preaching Christ. I attended three or four meet- 
 ings in Porter, and saw some powerfully convicted ; and a few Mho 
 had forsaken the right way, confessed their wanderings, saying, 
 they were resolved to turn again and live. I received information 
 afterward that a revival follow^ed these good signs. 
 
 Returning to New Hampshire, I met an assembly in Eflingham, 
 and the Lord enabled me to speak in the power of the gospel. In 
 the meantime a dark cloud overspread the sky, and vivid lightnings 
 with heavy thunder, increased the solemnity of the meeting. I 
 
12S MEMOIRS OF 
 
 said to the sinner, " You have no security while living in sin, and 
 for aught you know the next thunderbolt may hurl you into the 
 eternal world." I had scarcely spoken these words when a sud- 
 den peal of thunder shook the house, and almost stunned the as- 
 sembly. A blazing tree, but a few rods before the door, discover- 
 ed to us that the shafts of death had passed just by us. This seem- 
 ed to alarm many, and they wept for their sins. Some desired 
 prayer, kneeled with us, and covenanted to seek the Lord. A re- 
 vival followed the meeting, and thirty or forty professed to be con- 
 verted. 
 
 In the early part of July, 1824, I returned to Weare, and found 
 that brother Abel Thornton, who had agreed to accompany me to 
 New York, was laboring successfully among the people. As he 
 had appointments given out for a few days, I staid and attended 
 several very interesting meetings with him. 
 
 Sunday, July 11. We had appointments to preach our fare- 
 well discourses, and expected to leave for New York the day fol- 
 lowing. But at six o'clock, A. M. a messenger arrived from Brad- 
 ford, a distance of seventeen miles, bringing tidings of the death 
 of brother Joseph Cheney. He said, that a little before his death 
 he requested that I should preach his funeral sermon. This news 
 awakened all my tender feelings, and excited a lively recollection 
 of happy hours that I had enjoyed with him during the revival at 
 Bradford. He was then confined by a diseased leg, and was some 
 of the time in a gloomy state of mind. He endured great pain for 
 many months, when, hoping to recover, his leg was taken oif. But 
 this was done too late — the disease had gone too far to be stayed. 
 The Lord raised his mind from doubts and gloom, and in sweet 
 submission to his Heavenly Father's will, he left this world of pain 
 and sorrow. I left Weare at eiglit o'clock, A. M., and reached the 
 liouse of mourning at twelve, where several hundred people had 
 collected. I spoke from Rev. 14:13 : ^''Blessed are the dead loMch 
 die in the Lord from henceforth : Tea, saith the Spirit, that they 
 may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them" The 
 amputated limb had been taken from the earth, and placed with 
 the body in the coffin. As the mourners entered their solitary hab- 
 itation after the funeral solemnities closed, they poured forth their 
 grief like a flood, and every spectator wept. I conversed a few 
 minutes with the afflicted widow, who was a devoted Christian, and 
 strove to impart some consolation. But this seemed only to revive 
 the memory of past scenes, and deepen the sense of her bereave- 
 ment. Thus brother Cheney died in the morning of his days — 
 left a wife to weep — two pleasant babes, scarcely to know a fath- 
 er's kindness — and the church to mourn their loss. This was one 
 of the most solemn days of my life. Taking leave of my afflicted 
 
DAVID MARKS. 12^ 
 
 friends, I returned to Weare the same evening, and on the way en- 
 joyed much serious reflection, and heavenly consolation. 
 
 Monday morning, brother Thornton and myself left Weare, and 
 proceeding on our journey we passed through Brattleboro*, Vt., 
 crossed the Green Mountains, held one meeting by the way, and 
 on the 16th of the month arrived at Ballstown, New York. We 
 preached a few times in this town, and found friends. We visited 
 the celebrated mineral springs, and drank of the water. But these 
 waters, thought I, can bear but little comparison with the water of 
 life. Large numbers come to these springs, from all parts of the 
 country, for the recovery of their health ; yet how many fail of 
 their desired object — return home — and die. But whosoever 
 " drinketh of the water'^ that Christ shall give, " shall never die^ 
 Yet, what vast multitudes refuse to come to the " water of life," 
 though it is free, " without money and without price," — and though, 
 unless they come, they know they must endure the pains of 
 eternal death. 
 
 Leaving Ballstown, we crossed the Mohawk and continued our 
 journey to Canajoharrie, where we spent a few days, and preach- 
 ed often, but saw little fruit of our labor. Yet, as " the husband- 
 man waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long pa- 
 tience," so we hoped that some finiit might yet appear. From the 
 25th of July to the 20th of August, we visited and preached in 
 Plainfield, Winfield, Brookfield, Paris, Brothertown, Westmore- 
 land, Verona, and Rome. In these meetings we witnessed good 
 seavSons. Some were awakened, and a few brought into the liberty 
 of the gospel. In Brookfield, Brothertown and Verona, glorious 
 revivals had lately gladdened the heaiis of hundreds. We enjoyed 
 some refreshing interviews with the converts. 
 
 In the latter part of August I arrived at my father's in Junius. 
 I had been absent about eight months, and was received with un- 
 usual gladness, — for my friends having heard that I was sick nigh 
 unto death, little expected to meet me again in this world. 
 
 On Wednesday, 25th, we held a meeting in Benton, and after 
 this proceeded fifty miles to Groveland. In this place the yearly 
 meeting opened in a grove, on the 28th of August, 1824. The 
 reports from the different parts of the yearly meeting brought good 
 tidings of the prosperity of Zion in several churches. On Monday, 
 we had a Ministers' conference, in which we knew by happy ex- 
 perience, that it is good for brethren to dwell in unity. 
 
 I labored with brother Thornton several days in Vienna, Ver- 
 ona, and Westmoreland, with some success. As he decided to 
 preach for a little season in these towns, Sept. 11, 1 bade him fare- 
 well. To me it was a painful parting. I had enjoyed many hap- 
 py hours with him. He was humble, grave, holy in conversation 
 
130 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 and deportment ; his fervent love to Zion, his many tears, and un- 
 wearied labors for sinners, had greatly endeared him to my soul. 
 
 I now thought it my duty to visit several churches in the Hol- 
 land Purchase yearly meeting, and to make preparations to travel 
 far into the western country, to preach the kingdom of God to the 
 destitute people in the wilderness. Taking a passage on the canal, 
 I went to Junius, staid at home some days, and held several very 
 solemn meetings. The seriousness was increased by the death of 
 a near neighbor of my father, who was drowned. In one of these 
 meetings two spoke for the first time. I visited Groveland again 
 and held five meetings. In one we witnessed the outpouring of 
 the Spirit, much to the comfort of the saints. Next I attended a 
 meeting in Bristol, and four in Middlesex. In two of these the 
 Lord greatly blessed me while speaking, and so filled my soul with 
 his glory, that there seemed but one step between me and heaven. 
 Blessed be the Lord ; I believe he gave me the word, and the peo- 
 ple received it as from him. I held a meeting in Jerusalem, and 
 found Wm. Van Tuyl, a young man who was awakened in my last 
 visit, now happy in the Lord. Leaving Jerusalem I went to Dres- 
 den, and while crossing the Seneca lake to Ovid, there was a great 
 calm, so that we were four hours in going five miles. In this time, 
 as a shower came upon us, I took an umbrella and seated myself 
 in my gig. Instantly the carriage turned over backward, and my 
 head just hit the side plank in such a manner, that had I fallen an 
 inch or two further back, doubtless I should have finished my 
 course. I felt thankful to God for his preserving care, and said 
 with myself in the language of Dr. Watts ; 
 
 " Dangers stand thick through all the groud, 
 To push us to the tomb." 
 
 Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1824, 1 enjoyed an interview with my sister 
 at Ithica, whom I had not seen for nearly three years. She lived 
 in a religious family, yet I could but think of the time when she 
 had a mother'' s care. On parting with her, we experienced all 
 those tender emotions which soften the heart on such occasions. 
 The next day I returned to my father's, and on Friday went to the 
 Benton quarterly meeting, which was held at Sodus on the 9 th and 
 10th of the month. Here I unexpectedly had another interview with 
 brother Thornton. The opportunity was sweet to my soul ; but 
 the reflection that we were soon to be parted, perhaps forever, — 
 and that in a few days I should be travelling in the lonely forests 
 of the west, made the hours to haste away like the shadows of the 
 plain. His preaching was spiritual, and gave much satisfaction. 
 Monday, we took the parting hand, and dropped the parting tear. 
 I was bidding farewell, to meet no more in this world. Yet the 
 blessed hope of rejoining each other in our Heavenly Father's 
 kingdom comforted our hearts. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 131 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 My Second Journey to Ohio. 
 
 On Wednesday, Oct. 13, I bade my father and his family adieu, 
 intending if it should be the will of the Lord, to go as far west as 
 the Mississippi river, and publish the glad tidings of salvation to 
 the needy in that section. I had only sixty-nine cents to bear mv 
 expenses a journey of one thousand miles, nine hundred of which 
 were among strangers. But feeling constrained to go, my trust 
 was in Him who said, " Lo I am with you alway, even unto the end 
 of the world." He had shown me great care, and I believed he 
 would still protect me. 
 
 Pursuing my journey westward to Hamburg, near Buffalo, I 
 preached in most of the towns through which I passed. In Par- 
 ma, where a revival had commenced, a large number came for- 
 ward for prayer. I stopped two days with my faithful friend, 
 Elder Hinckley, who gave me much good counsel, and presented 
 me six or seven dollars. In Alexander, several careless sinners 
 were awakened and prayed for mercy. 
 
 Thursday, Nov. 4, 1824. Another year has fled forever — and 
 still I live. I remember that a year ago to-day the query arose, 
 * Shall Hive to see another yearT This is decided. But O, how 
 many have left this world and are now conversant with eternal 
 scenes ! Heaven has spared me till nineteen years of my life are 
 passed. And why is this ? Is it that I may be useful to Zion, 
 and glorify God ? Alas ! how little successful have I been the 
 past year in winning souls to Christ. How many thousands have 
 heard me preach — yet how few of them have been persuaded to 
 turn and live ! Had I lived nearer the Lord, I should have been 
 more successful — and many to whom I shall never speak again, 
 might have been saved from death. But these opportunities are 
 gone forever — ^till the heavens be no more. Then I must meet 
 them, and give account to God of what I have preached, and how 
 I have preached. Lord, forgive all the unfaithfulness of thy 
 unprofitable servant, and enable me henceforth to have no will hut 
 ifiine — no object, hut thy glory — and no work hut what thou shalt 
 assign me. But whether I shall live to see another year or not, is 
 known only to Him with whom all things are present. Therefore, 
 may I live each day as humble as though it were my last, and 
 preach every sermon as faithfully as though it were my last; so 
 that should my time come " as a thief in the night," I may be pre- 
 pared. " Even so let it be, Lord Jesus." 
 
W2 MEsioms Of 
 
 I spent the three following days in Boston, and held five meet- 
 ings. Some heard with tears, and a few promised to seek the 
 Lord. Next day I preached twice in Eden and held two meetings. 
 Friday, I proceeded on my way toward Ohio, — not knowing what 
 should befall me, save that experience bore me witness that pover- 
 ty and afflictions awaited me. Yet the Lord wiped away my tears, 
 and I felt peace — ^believing this journey was in obedience to the 
 requirement of my Heavenly Father. Saturday, held a meeting 
 at Hanover, but enjoyed little freedom. On the Sabbath, preach- 
 ing again at Hanover, the gracious Redeemer freed my spirit, and 
 made my soul to mount up as with wings. At the close, fourteen 
 kneeled, while prayer was made for their salvation. Continuing 
 my journey, I preached in several towns in New York and Penn- 
 sylvania- 
 Tuesday, Nov. 23, 1 entered the state of Ohio, and spoke with 
 freedom to a solemn assembly in Conneaut. Here a glorious re- 
 vival was gladdening Zion, under the labors of Elder Asa Morri- 
 son. About two hundred had professed to find the " pearl of great 
 price." On Thursday I attended Elder Morrison's appointment to 
 preach a funeral discourse. He read 1 Pet. 1:24, 25, for a text, 
 spoke about ten minutes, then told the people he could not preach ; 
 and after addressing the mourners about five minutes, he took his 
 seat, apparently much depressed in spirit. Feeling an impression 
 of duty, I arose immediately, and spoke from the same Scripture. 
 It pleased the Lord to give me much liberty. Blessed be his name. 
 Thursday, Nov. 25, had been appointed by the governor of the 
 State for a day of public thanksgiving. I met an assembly in the 
 evening at the centre of the town, and many I believe felt that 
 thankfulness which makes the soul happy. The next day I preach- 
 ed in Monroe, and the word appeared to touch the hearts of some. 
 The day following I visited a family who professed no religion — 
 conversed and prayed with them, and left them all weeping. Sab- 
 bath I addressed an assembly at Conneaut centre, from Jeremiah 
 6:1 6. Through the whole there was much solemnity ; and at the 
 close, nearly twenty mourners came forward for prayer. In this 
 place, five dollars were given me, for which I returned thanks to 
 my Master. In the evening I preached at Kingsville. 
 
 On Monday evening, I preached a few miles west of Ashtabula, 
 
 from Gen. 1 :3. After meeting, Mr. invited me to stay with 
 
 him the night. I accepted his invitation : he asked me to eat no 
 supper — gave me no breakfast — ^and charged me for keeping my 
 horse. I paid my bill, bade him adieu, and rode twenty miles to 
 Perry. Being requested to hold a meeting in this place, I com- 
 plied, and was kindly received by the people. The next day I 
 preached in the Baptist meeting house at Euclid, twenty-five miles 
 
from Perry. A precious season was enjoyed, and many entreated 
 me to stay awhile. But believing that duty forbade, I proceeded 
 the next morning at dawn of day, and on Friday arrived in Milan, 
 Huron county. Having preached in this town considerably in my 
 former visit to this state, I now found acquaintance, and was affec- 
 tionately received. I spent nearly a week in this town, preaching 
 daily. My mind was shut up in doubts and trials in some of these 
 meetings, — in others the Lord blessed me. I met some opposition 
 from predestinarians, and from the advocates of infant sprinkling. 
 I merely entreated them to search the Scriptures, and see whether 
 I had preached according to truth. 
 
 Saturday, Dec 11, I spoke to an assembly in Bloomingville, 
 from Rom. 10 : 10. In this discourse I preached a full atonement 
 — ^and that the Savior is willing to save all men, if they will re- 
 pent and believe according to the grace given them in the gospel. 
 When I closed my remarks, a man arose and objected to the doc- 
 trine : he said it represented God as superfluous in his work; " For 
 instance, like a man who intends to build a house twenty feet by 
 twenty, but digs a cellar forty feet by twenty" " Therefore," said 
 he, " as one half of this work would be superfluous, so would a 
 general atonement be, unless God designed to save all men." To 
 this I replied, that the Lord sends the rain and snow on the barren 
 wastes unoccupied by man, also upon the fields of the slothful. 
 Likewise he maketh the sun to shine, where seemingly there is no 
 need of light. Yet this does not prove that the great Creator is 
 superfluous in his works. No more can a general atonement, 
 whereby all men may have salvation, be a superfluous work. For 
 by it alone the equality of God's ways to his creatures is manifest- 
 ed, and the sinner's personal guilt made to appear, and to fall upon 
 his own soul in such a manner as to leave him without excuse. 
 This will make him speechless in the great day of retribution. 
 
 On the Sabbath, I gave two discourses in York. After the close, 
 several young men who were mourning for their sins, kneeled in 
 the time of prayer. My horse having met with an accident, pre- 
 vented me from pursuing my journey. I endeavored to improve 
 my detention in labors to save souls in the vicinity where I was 
 staying. During the remainder of Dec. I labored according to the 
 grace given me, in various towns in the neighborhood of York. 
 
 In Green Creek, I visited a man named Abraham Mai-ks, who 
 was at the point of death. At this time, he was vomiting a black 
 substance, which, as his physician afterwards stated, was his vital 
 parts. Still he was free from pain, and seemed to be almost with- 
 out concern. He knew not that death was nigh ; but in a few 
 minutes his spirit took its flight. The day after, I attended the 
 funeral and preached from Eccl. 7:2. "7^ is better to go to the 
 12 
 
134 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting: for that is 
 the end of all men^ and the living will lay it to his heartJ^ It was 
 a time of much weeping. But alas ! the sorrow of many continu- 
 ed only for a little season, and their forgetfulness of God returned. 
 While on our way to the grave, which was in the edge of a forest, 
 the sun went down, and the solemnities of the burial were much 
 increased by their being performed by moonlight. 
 
 January 1, 1825, 1 addressed a solemn assembly in York, and 
 started again on my journey, but had gone only five miles, when 
 my horse became so lame that I was unable to proceed. So I re- 
 turned to York, and held a few meetings. As my beast remained 
 unfit for use, and as no prospect appeared of a change for the bet- 
 ter, I concluded to teach a school in this town and preach with the 
 people. Accordingly I engaged one for three months at ten dol- 
 lars per month, hoping by this to be enabled to supply my wantvS, 
 and free myself from embarrassment. From the commencement 
 of my travels, I had endeavored to employ all my leisure time in 
 study, and by this course had improved my education. Still I was 
 poorly qualified for the business ; but the school being backward, I 
 thought by diligence and perseverance I might get along. This 
 was my first engagement in any worldly employment for four years. 
 I now made stated appointments twice a week in York, and twice 
 in Green Creek, five miles from my school. I generally walked 
 to the latter place after the close of my school, frequently without 
 having taken any food after breakfast, except a piece with my 
 scholars, and often arrived at the meeting too late to partake of 
 any refreshment till after the exercises. Sometimes, in order to 
 meet my engagements, I would leave Green Creek without any 
 breakfast, and arriving only in season to commence my school, I 
 would have no opportunity to get a regular meal till night. Three 
 or four miles of this distance lay through woods, and havino- no 
 guide except marked trees, twice I lost my way, and wandered for 
 some time. These toils and privations I endured joyfully, that I 
 might warn the wicked and win souls to Christ. Sometimes the 
 Lord gave me freedom, led my soul into the deep waters, and com- 
 forted me with the cheering light of his countenance. 
 
 In York, a few believed in the Lord, and in the latter part of 
 January, a church of twelve or fourteen members was organized 
 I)y Elders J. Mugg and Samuel Bradford. This month I attend- 
 ed the Huron quarterly meeting, which was a quickening, refresh- 
 ing time to Zion. In Green Creek, we had some good seasons. 
 A small number professed to find Jesus, and many others were 
 much impressed, but shrinking at the cross they found no salvation. 
 Still I sowed with the hope, that the good seed of the kingdom would 
 yet spring up and bear fruit. In this town I was called to preach 
 
DAVID MARKS. 135 
 
 on two funeral occasions. One was a young man just married, 
 who after one week's sickness, was cut off from life. The other 
 was an aged man. Neither of them professed to have any hope in 
 Christ. Alas ! how many live without God, and are unprepared 
 when called to meet the conquering foe. I visited other towns at 
 the distance of ten, twenty, or thirty miles, and preached according 
 to the grace given me. At some of these meetings, there were 
 good signs ; at others, my spirit was cast down, and the solitary- 
 places were witness to my groans for the salvation of sinners. 
 Grenerally, however, I enjoyed peace of mind, which was sweeter 
 than anything this earth can afford. 
 
 About two months after the commencement of my school, sick- 
 ness began to prevail, and a number of my scholars were taken ill. 
 This so reduced the school, that after obtaining the consent of my 
 employers, I dismissed it. By faithful care, my horse had become 
 fit for use, and I made preparations to go my way. 
 
 March 18, I crossed the Indian reservation, twelve miles through 
 the wilderness, and the day following, attended a meeting at the 
 Methodist missionary station at Upper Sandusky. March 20, 1 
 proceeded to Big Island in Marion county, where I found an as- 
 sembly collected to hear Elder David Dudley, who was a Free- 
 will Baptist. Many more were present than could enter the house. 
 Being a stranger, I took a seat without, till the discourse was clos- 
 ed. Then, going to the door, I looked in and said, " There is in 
 this town, a certain son, who has received of his father a rich in- 
 heritance, with every kindness a parent's love can bestow. The far 
 ther has visited the son several times ; — but, without cause, the son 
 has absolutely refused even to receive him into his house ! The 
 father has reasoned the ca»se, and affectionately entreated the son 
 again and again, — reminding him of his liberality and uniform 
 kindness. Still, this son, though he did not pretend to dispute the 
 kindness of his father, nor assign a single reason for his own con^ 
 duct, has obstinately persisted in refusing to give his father admis- 
 sion into his habitation." Inquisitive countenances, surprise and 
 disgust, with a breathless silence, immediately ensued. After a pause, 
 I said, " This son is now present." The anxious inquiry, " Who can 
 it be ?" seemed heightened, and the people looked on one another 
 with astonishment. Then said I, " Sinner, thou art this rebellious 
 son ! God, thy Father by creation, has given thee all the good thou 
 hast ever enjoyed. Often he hath visited thee in mercy, and knock- 
 ed at the door of thy heart — but by unbelief thou hast obstinately 
 bolted him out !" The Spirit of God set this home to the assem- 
 l)ly — and many wept. A justice of the peace, that was present, 
 felt this applied to him as though a voice from heaven had said, 
 
%H MEM0IR9 Of 
 
 <* Thou art the man." He felt that he was the rebellious son, and 
 mourned for his sins till God spoke peace to his soul. 
 
 Here my acquaintance with Elder Dudley commenced. He re- 
 moved to this town about two years previous, and gathered a small 
 church, but they had labored under many trials. Elder D. had of- 
 ten wept for the unbelief of the people and the low state of Zion. 
 The Lord had lately answered his prayers, and revived His work. 
 He was witnessing a revival in the place of his residence, and in 
 an adjacent town. A large number had already been converted, 
 and the church increased to forty-five or fifty members, all happily 
 united in the service of God. I found many open doors for preach- 
 ing ; and my health being poor, and the time so far passed, I gave 
 up the idea of going to the Mississippi ; and for a time labored in 
 Big Island, Salt-rock, and at Marion county seat. The Lord fa- 
 vored me with some good seasons. 
 
 About this time, I visited Grand township, which joins Salt-rock, 
 and preached in a neighborhood situated on the line of these towns. 
 Being strongly solicited by several brethren to teach a school in 
 this vicinity, I engaged one for three months, thinking that still I 
 might preach as much as my health would admit. I had subscription 
 for twenty-five scholars, at SI, 50 each, and commenced teaching on 
 Tuesday, March 29, 1825. I made stated appointments, three 
 times a week at my school house, and once a week about five miles 
 distant. In the vicinity of the last appointment the people appear- 
 ed to have as little idea of repentance, of regeneration, and 
 the nature of the gospel, as any people to whom I ever preach- 
 ed. I attended my appointments with them a few weeks, and 
 sometimes spoke with much freedom ; but the effect seemed 
 no more than beating upon an adamant. At length, despair- 
 ing of seeing any success I withdrew my appointments. In the 
 vicinity of my school, I found it hard preaching, as the people gen- 
 erally had little faith in the gospel, or little understanding even of 
 its theory. Their views of the way to heaven seemed to be these : 
 — to cease from immoralities — ^to do good — join the church, and at- 
 tend meetings and prayers regularly. Once I remarked in a dis- 
 course, ^ that a man may be strictly moral, — may be a member of 
 the church, — attend family prayer, — and still die in his sins, and 
 go to hell.' This remark was much spoken of as a presumptuous 
 saying. But few weeks passed, however, before I felt the Spirit 
 of the Lord " like a fire shut up in my bones ;" and the power of 
 God attended the word to the hearts of the people. 
 
 Sabbath, April 24, I spoke in the forenoon from Luke 9:25 : 
 " For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and 
 lose himself, or be cast away ?" In the afternoon, I spoke from 
 verse 23, of the same chapter : " If any man will come after me, 
 
DAVID MArwKS. 137 
 
 let him deny himself," &c. Several were pricked in the heart and 
 cried to the Lord for mercy. In the evening we had another meet- 
 ing, aiW were still more favored of the Lord. Four anxious souls 
 were brought into liberty and praised God. Col. C. of this place, 
 arose weeping, and said, " Christian friends, do pray for me ;" 
 then he fell upon his knees and wept exceedingly. In about a 
 week he found peace in believing, and publicly confessed Christ. 
 His conversion was instrumental of the conviction of his wife, who 
 also soon found Jesus. 
 
 May 16, 1825. While dining near the school house, I heard a 
 sudden sound, like the coming of a mighty whirlwind. A breath- 
 less silence ensued, and in an instant, all left the table. Apprised 
 of what was at hand, I thought of my scholars, and petitioned 
 Heaven to protect them from danger. About twenty-five were in 
 the school-house, which was situated in a grove of large oaks. On 
 coming into the open air, such a scene was presented as I had nev- 
 er witnessed. The trees of the adjacent forest seemed to bow be- 
 fore a dreadful hurricane, like grass before the mower's scythe. 
 Large branches of trees were flying in the air over the fields like 
 husks, the earth trembled at the sound, and all around seemed as if 
 the judgment day had come. We clung to the body of a log- 
 house that had just been rolled up, to keep from being driven away. 
 In about two minutes, this seeming agitation of all nature a little 
 subsided. On looking around, we saw an oak four or five feet in 
 diameter, which had fallen within two rods of us, but such had 
 been the noise, that till now, we had not perceived it. We were 
 yet more astonished on finding that the wind had blown very little, 
 for perhaps within twenty-five rods of the school house — and 
 though the trees fell in great numbers each side of it, not one fell 
 within this distance. After the tempest, many pine shingles were 
 found in the neighborhood ; and as there were none in these towns, 
 the people concluded they must have been brought from the west 
 over a fifty mile forest which joined the neighborhood in that direc- 
 tion. We understood that in the western settlements, the tornado 
 levelled almost every house in its course, till it came to this forest. 
 We also learned from the public papers, that after it left the coun- 
 ty of Marion, its violence much increased as it moved eastward, 
 till it came to the east and v/est forks of Licking. Then it swept 
 every thing in its course, levelled nearly every house and barn, car- 
 ried many large trees in the air, throwing them end over end like 
 the stalks of corn when carried by a fierce wind. The destruction 
 of property was great, and several lives were losi. I understood 
 that one man who fled from a large brick house into an orchard, 
 had his brains dashed out by a stick twelve inches in length and 
 one and a half in diameter, that was driven by the wind. The 
 12* 
 
138 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 house from which he fled was levelled, and the family escaped by 
 taking refuge in the cellar. We were also informed, that two men 
 on a plain, seeing a cloud rising in the west, watched it, till they 
 discovered that it was a cloud of trees, branches, &c. brought by 
 the wind. One hid himself under a fallen tree ; the other was 
 carried by the wind half a mile, but by clinging to brushes that 
 were flying in the air, he finally escaped with his life and sustained 
 little injury. This whirlwind was thought to exceed in its violence 
 any that had ever visited this country. I thought, Alas ! what will 
 sinners do, when the " whirlwind of the Lord goeth forth with fu- 
 ry, a continuing whirlwind; it shall fall with pain upon the head 
 of the wicked,'' " and they shall not escape'' Jer. 30:23 ; Job, 11: 
 20. Let him that is wise seek a hiding place from that awful storm 
 of wrath, which will soon be poured out upon the ungodly. 
 
 The revival continued to progress in the townships of Grand 
 and Salt-rock, till twelve or fifteen professed to experience salva- 
 tion. Elder Dudley preached with us twice, and baptized eleven 
 of the converts, among whom were Col. C. and Esq. H. who was 
 awakened at the time I addressed the sinner under the character 
 of the rebellious son. Tliese united with the church at Big Island. 
 In the meantime, Mr. J. Dixon, a circuit preacher of the Metho- 
 dists, came into the vicinity of the revival and gathered a society 
 of about twenty-five members. Of these, I understood that only 
 four or five professed to enjoy religion. He urged the anxious for- 
 ward, saying to them, if they would take up the cross and join the 
 society, perhaps they would immediately find salvation. Accord- 
 ingly they complied, but sad was the apparent effect ; for from this 
 time, as they were within the pales of the church, they seemed to feel 
 measurably secure, and soon, to appearance, their concern and anx- 
 iety for salvation died away. I think, of the twenty anxious souls 
 that united with the society, there was not one, or at least not more 
 than one, that professed to experience a saving change of heart. 
 Thus the revival stopped. O ! how this pained my soul. I wrote 
 a letter to Mr. Dixon, and endeavored to convince him that his 
 course had been unscriptural, and stated the effect, which, to ap- 
 pearance, it had on the minds of the anxious. He returned me an 
 answer, in which he justified his practice of building churches or 
 societies of unconverted persons. To the answer he added a 
 lengthy poetic satire. In this, he called me " Folly's eldest son ;" — 
 and made an epitaph accordingly, to be put on my tombstone. As 
 he was a professed minister of the meek and lowly Jesus, it deeply 
 wounded my soul. With an aching heart, I laid it before the Lord, 
 and concluded to let it rest till I should meet him at that tribunal 
 from which there will be no appeal. I was informed that some of 
 the Methodist brethren were grieved with him for this satire, and 
 
DAVID MARKS. 139 
 
 talked of reporting liim to the Conference. Biit this was the 
 last I heard of it. O that he may repent and find mercy in the day 
 of the Lord. 
 
 During my school, I frequently preached in other neighborhoods, 
 particularly in Big Island, and at Marion county seat. In the for- 
 mer place the reviv^al under the labors of Elder Dudley continu- 
 ed, and the church in his care walked in great liberty. A more 
 happy and engaged people, I think I had never seen. Such pow- 
 er and glory were frequently manifested in their meetings, that 
 they were indeed awful on account of the presence of the Lord. 
 
 I was present on a baptismal occasion, that was remarkably in- 
 teresting. The day was beautiful, and baptism was performed in 
 the river Sciota, in the midst of the great prairie between Big Isl- 
 and and Marion. Scarcely a tree or shrub obstructed the sight for 
 several square miles. The grass that was now four or five feet in 
 height, * bended gently before a breeze, while the assembly form- 
 ed a procession between one and two miles in length. They came 
 to the river about the centre of the prairie where they had been 
 wont to baptize, and there met another company of people from 
 Marion county seat. A large proportion of this assembly were 
 lioly Christians and happy converts. They began to sing one of 
 the songs of Zion, and were filled with joy somewhat like that which 
 gladdened the heart of the disciples, when, as their blessed Master 
 was riding into Jerusalem, they cried " Hosanna to the Son of Da- 
 vid!" We kneeled on the grass while prayer was made to God; 
 then Elder Dudley led five happy converts into the stream who 
 came out rejoicing. Much solemnity pervaded the assembly 
 and many wept. " At the conclusion of this interesting sea- 
 son, the church, joining hands, formed a ring, in which those 
 just baptized united, and thus received the right hand of fellowship. 
 Then all kneeled and prayer was made for them, for the anxious 
 that were present, for the assembly, and for the whole world. They 
 united again in a song of praise, that with heavenly melody rang 
 over the plain. Shortly after they commenced singing, they began 
 to shake hands with each otlier, and before the hymn closed, this 
 stilutation was exchanged by nearly the whole assembly ; and many 
 seemed almost " caught away by the Spirit." While the congrega- 
 tion was dispersing, I watched the different companies as they fol- 
 lowed the winding paths through the waving grass, and from some 
 I heard the voice of singing and gladness till they were lost from 
 sight in the distant oak groves that surrounded the prairie of 
 Sciota. My soul was melted by the sublimity of the scene ; and 
 as I retired, I wept for joy. This day I remember as one of the 
 most interesting of my Ufe. 
 
 My school closed on the 25th of June, 1825. I uniformly began 
 
140 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 and closed the exercises of the day with prayer; and frequently 
 made addresses to the scholars, which seemed to gain place in 
 their hearts, and they often listened with tears. They had treated 
 me with much affection, and I found the thoughts of parting with 
 them quite painful. The manner of their instruction from former 
 teachers, was very different from that Tvdth which I had been ac- 
 quainted ; and pursuing the method usual in the eastern states, it 
 was not only new and pleasing to the scholars, but also to my em- 
 ployers. Many solicited me to engage for another teiin. I had 
 enjoyed peace of mind, and did not feel that I had erred in past 
 engagements ; for I had opportunities of preaching often, and the 
 Lord had blessed the word to the salvation of some. I had also 
 enjoyed an advantage that I did not anticipate. I found that in- 
 structing others had contributed to my own improvement. At the 
 commencement of my school in York, I began the study of figures 
 without an instructor. As I boarded with my employers, and 
 preached five or six times in a week, I had little leisure for study, 
 till after others retired to rest. By continuing my studies till mid- 
 night, and sometimes till two or three o'clock in the morning, I 
 succeeded, with two or three exceptions, in M-orking all the sums 
 in Adams' Arithmetic, before the close of my second school. 
 
 July 1, 1825, 1 engaged to teach the same school another term of 
 three months. Soon I felt impressions, that the harvest time with 
 sinners in this place had passed, that several who had been awak- 
 ened to seek God, had grieved his Spirit, and that now the Lord 
 had said of them as he did of Ephraim : They are " joined to 
 idols ; let them alonc^ I told these impressions in public, and at 
 the same time felt a deep sense of the awful justice of the great 
 God. I felt that it was a sealing time, and these presentiments 
 proved true ; for not one soul, during my stay, afterwards profess- 
 ed to find salvation. Still I continued preaching with great free- 
 dom, and much peace of mind. My discourses, however, were 
 principally directed to comfort and strengthen the saints. I ob- 
 served some seriousness in my school, and hoped that at some fu- 
 ture period, the good seed that had been sown with many tears, 
 would spring up and bear fruit. These hopes were not unfounded. 
 One or two years after I left Ohio, I received a letter fi^om a 
 friend, stating that several of these children had been converted, 
 and often reflected on the serious impressions they received in this 
 school. 
 
 About this time, I began to have forebodings that sickness await- 
 ed me, and perhaps death. I spoke of these several times to my 
 friends, particularly to brother Bates, formerly from Montpelier, 
 Vt. He had been in the the holy war forty-six years. The Lord 
 had blessed him with a convenient dwelling, and the good things of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 141 
 
 tills life ; and he kindly invited me, if I should be ill, to come to 
 his house, where he assured me I should have every kindness in 
 their power to bestOAv. On the 10th of August, I began to feel 
 unwell ; but contlnuod my soTinnl. The next day, my indisposi« 
 tion increased, and with considerable effort I passed through the 
 duties of the school, then told my scholars that I was ill, and they 
 need not come again till they heard from me. A shower was now 
 rising, and as I felt anxious to reach brother Bates', a distance of 
 three miles, I rode very fast ; but being overtaken by the rain, 
 when within half a mile of his house, I called on a friend, took a 
 bed, and staid the night. The next morning, I was only able to 
 ride to brother Bates', where I was aifectionately received, and 
 went immediately to bed. A fever had fastened upon my system, 
 and as the climate was unfavorable to my constitution, it was 
 thought my illness would be severe. This I expected ; but as it 
 increased, clouds veiled my mind, and I enjoyed little comfort. I 
 tried to pray, but my prayers seemed like a chattering noise. Oc- 
 casional flashes of light, only kept me from sinking. I had often 
 thought, if laid on a bed of sickness in a land far from home, the 
 smiles of Him in whom I had put my trust would render even this 
 situation pleasant, and chase my woes away. But now as my dis- 
 tress increased, and the light of God's countenance was withdrawn, 
 my trials seemed greater than I could bear. I felt that my soul 
 was wading through a furnace of affliction ; I sought the cause, but 
 found it not. I knew not that I had neglected any particular duty, 
 or committed any particular sin, for which I was thus forsaken of 
 the Lord. In consequence of my gloomy state, sceptical sugges- 
 tions troubled me ; and satan tempted me to doubt the reality of 
 religion, the immortality of the soul, and even the existence of 
 God. But the many evidences of the divine authenticity of the 
 Scriptures, with my own experience, wherein my soul had been 
 made exceeding joyful in circumstances, temporally, very afflictive, 
 prevented these evil suggestions from taking any root in my mind. 
 Again, I reflected, that this state is one of trial, and in the inti- 
 mate connection of soul and body, it would be strange indeed, if the 
 state of one should not in some measure affect the condition of the 
 other. If, by trouble of mind the outer man wears away, as of 
 consumption, why should it be incredible that disorder of body 
 should affect the mind ? From these reflections, I resolved that a 
 happy state of feeling should not be the basis of my hope ; that 
 though my sight was dim, I would still walk by faith. Yea, I said 
 in my heart, " Though he slay wze, yet will I trust in him.'' 
 
 In a little time after my confinement, I became very sick, and 
 lost to myself. After midnight, brother Bates went several miles 
 for a physician, and soon another was called. They were both 
 
142 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 men of skill, and very attentive. In about ten days they succeed- 
 ed in checking the fever, and I began to amend. The family seem- 
 ed to know no weariness in the abundant care and kindness they 
 bestowed upon me ; and to this day the remembrance of it melts 
 my heart. 
 
 In the latter part of August, a quarterly meeting was to be or- 
 ganized in Norton, twenty-five miles distant. Feeling anxious to 
 attend, I ventured to ride five or ten miles in a day till 1 reached 
 the place. Four churches united and formed the Marion quarterly 
 meeting. Three of these were in Big Island, Marion, and Nor- 
 ton. The quarterly meeting contained two Elders, David Dudley 
 and Samuel Bradford, and about one hundred members. My heart 
 was glad for the good work of the Lord in this wilderness. . But 
 my short journey had been too much for my strength, and my fe- 
 ver returned ; so that during the meeting, I did not stay in the as- 
 sembly more than two hours. In this time 1 sat in a chair, and 
 preached about an hour with some freedom. I retired immediate- 
 ly from the barn where the meeting was held, went into a cham- 
 ber, and lay down on a sheet expanded on a frame, to prevent the 
 inconvenience of the heat. Here I continued, mostly alone, pass- 
 ing the time in much restlessness and w^eeping, till the quarterly 
 meeting closed. Then I returned slowly to Marion county seat ; 
 and when I arrived, ray strength was so exhausted, that I thought 
 I should fall from my horse. Col. H. Gorton, a brother and friend, 
 seeing my situation, met me a few rods from his door, and helped 
 me into his house, and on to a bed. In a few minutes a chill struck 
 me, my mouth and tongue became cold and numb, and for a little 
 time I was unable to speak. After this I M^as confined by what is 
 called a chill fever, a complaint frequent in Ohio, and which often 
 proves fatal. I remained at brother Gorton's about a week, and 
 was attended by one of my former physicians ; then I went to the 
 house of Elder Bradford, and staid another week. I endured 
 much pain at both these places, and frequently had turns of de- 
 rangement ; but at the close of the second week, through the bless- 
 ing of God, my health was measurably restored. The kindness I 
 received from these friends will long be remembered. May Heav- 
 en bless them. I had formed some acquaintance with Elder Brad- 
 ford in New York, and the opportunity I now enjoyed with him 
 was comforting. 
 
 About the middle of September, I was able to move slowly from 
 place to place, and hold a few meetings. I called to see my phy- 
 sicians, and though they did not profess religion, they declined re- 
 ceiving any reward for their services, and seemed to take satisfac- 
 tion in showing me these favors. O that it may be said to them 
 in a coming day, " I was sick and ye visited me" After this I re- 
 
DAVID HA&KS. 143 
 
 turned to Grand township, again commenced my school, and con- 
 tinued it two weeks. 
 
 In the early part of October, 1825, I attended the organization 
 of the Ohio yearly meeting, in Center, a township joining Big Is- 
 land. Elders David Dudley, Moses Dudley, Marcus Kilbourn, 
 Samuel Bradford, and two or three other preachers were present. 
 Huron, Marion, and Miami quarterly meetings united ; and in these, 
 I think there were ten ordained preachers, and thirteen small 
 churches. The number of members was not ascertained, but prob- 
 ably did not exceed three hundred. We enjoyed some refreshings 
 through a part of the meeting ; but on the Sabbath it appeared to 
 be a time of mourning, especially among the preachers. In the 
 latter part of the day, however, the free Spirit dispersed the gloom 
 in some measure, and several weighty exhortations excited a de- 
 gree of feeling in the assembly. As the meeting was about to 
 close, a great solemnity filled my soul. By faith, I saw the " PlaM 
 of renown'^ spreading its tender branches over the wilderness of 
 the west and south. It seemed as though the future prosperity and 
 glory of the church were instantly presented before my eyes. I 
 beheld the little praying bands scattered amid the plains and for- 
 ests of Ohio from Lake Erie to Ohio river, and west into the des- 
 erts of Indiana, and saw them worship in their log cottages. And 
 the period seemed near, when this little company, now assembled 
 in a barn to hold the first yearly meeting, should become a great 
 people. I thought with myself, O what will the Lord do for them 
 in twenty years ! Surely we have reason to believe he will work 
 wonders. O, if Randall and Colby could have been here to-day, 
 and have seen the white fields ready for the harvest, how would 
 they have wept for joy. Twenty years from .this time, if the breth- 
 ren remain steadfast, and the Ohio yearly meeting assemble, what 
 wonders, what glorious revivals and additions can they speak of to 
 the praise of their Redeemer. Then they may look back to this 
 day, and remember they were but as a handful. The meeting closed 
 with much solemnity, and many I believe went away comforted. 
 
 I had labored under constant depression of mind since the time 
 of my confinement ; and^nly at intervals, and even then but for a 
 few minutes, was I happy. At this meeting, the Lord granted 
 some comfort to my soul ; but to my sorrow, I found that my joy 
 departed immediately after. My days were again sohtary, and 
 spent in mourning ; and my prayers seemed an empty sound. I 
 felt that I had little more work to do for the Lord in this part of 
 His vineyard. A constant gloom continued to veil my mind, my 
 labors seemed more worthless than the dust, and I could see no 
 prospect of their being useful. One month of the term for which 
 I had engaged to teach was yet to come, and I concluded to ask a 
 
144 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 dismission, tHat I might return to New York. This was granted ; 
 and in two days, all my employers, with one or two small excep- 
 tions, paid what was due on the school bills. 1 attended a few 
 meetings in the vicinity of my school, and in neighboring towns. 
 Thick darkness seemed to cover me, and I deeply sighed for barren- 
 ness of soul. Could the trees on the plains of Marion county 
 speak, they might tell the solitary hours I there spent in sighs and 
 groans. 
 
 About the 10th of October, 1825, I bade my brethren and 
 friends farewell. It was a solemn parting — and to me a gloomy 
 time. My health was still poor, and I was very feeble. A jour- 
 ney of nearly five hundred miles lay before me, to travel principal- 
 ly on horseback, amid the winds and rains of autumn. But this 
 was nothing compared with the cheerless winter that chilled my 
 poor soul. Sometimes I would try to apply to my case the words 
 of David : " Why art thou cast down, my soul ? and why art thou 
 disquieted within me ? Hope thou in God ; for I shall yet praise 
 him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God." Still this 
 could not bring the life-giving presence of my Savior ; nor recall 
 the happiness of former days. I proceeded on my journey to 
 Green Creek and York townships, a distance of about fifty miles. 
 After resting some days and holding a few meetings, I continued 
 my journey to Wayne, preaching occasionally by the way. I ar- 
 rived at this town the first day of November, gave notice for a 
 meeting at the house of Mr. Morse, and a considerable room was 
 soon filled. A revival had lately gladdened Zion, and if I was cor- 
 rectly informed, all in the assembly, except three, professed relig- 
 ion. Of this I was ignorant at the time, and my mind was led to 
 direct my discourse to the unconverted. I spoke from Prov. 23: 
 23 : " Buy the truth and sell it not.** From an impression, I turn- 
 ed and addressed a stranger who stood by my side, in the following 
 manner : " Young man, remember though thou art now in time . to- 
 morrow thou may est be in eternity ; though to-day thou art with 
 us in the body, to-morrow thou mayest be conversant with disem- 
 bodied spirits in the eternal world." This man was the only male 
 in the assembly that had no hope in Christ. I was informed that 
 he went home quite serious, and made some remarks on the youth 
 of the preacher, and the sermon he had heard, that indicated his 
 heart had been touched. The next morning he arose in like man- 
 ner solemn, but soon commenced singing a song, apparently to 
 drown reflection. This had been his usual manner when convic- 
 ted, according to his frequent confessions. One of his associates 
 coming in while he was singing, said to him : " You feel quite mer- 
 ry this morning ?" He replied : " Yes — what is the use of one*s 
 dying before his time comes ?" Soon he went to the rolling up of a 
 
DAVID MARKS. 145 
 
 log building — continued cheerful through the day, and occasional- 
 ly sung songs ; but a little before sunset, a log on which he sat at 
 the top of the building, began to roll. He saw that he must fall, 
 yet being strong and active, seemed to think he should escape dan- 
 ger, and cried with his usual cheerfulness, " Take care boys." 
 These were his last words ; for as soon as he reached the ground 
 the log fell on his head. He could neither speak nor move, but 
 looked wishfully on his friends, and died in fifteen minutes. Thus 
 he found that his time had come ^'us a thief in the night J^ When 
 leaving home in the morning, he stopped a little distance from the 
 door, in which his wife was standing with their only child, looked 
 at them a minute in silence, then returning, kissed the child, and 
 left his little family forever ! But, ah ! how little did he think he 
 had heard his last sermon — that the last day of his life had come, 
 and the Judge was standing at the door ! May this be a warning 
 to the ungocUy. I visited the fatal spot immediately, and guided 
 by a bloody path, followed the body of this unfortunate youth to a 
 neighboring dwelling, where with keen sympathies I witnessed 
 the agonies of his companion and numerous relatives, who wept as 
 though they had no remaining comfort. Then I said, " Man is 
 like to vanity : his days are as a shadow that passeth away." 
 
 Nov. 4, 1825, closed twenty years of my life, and it was a day 
 of much reflection and solemnity. As it was the wish of the rel- 
 atives, I preached the funeral sermon of the young man that had 
 been called away so suddenly. A numerous congregation attend- 
 ed and about thirty mourners wept at the grave of their deceased 
 friend ; while the multitude that stood around dropped many a tear, 
 I never was present on a more impressive occasion. " Blessed is 
 the man that ' is ready :' " for " 77ian hnoweth not his time" 
 
 After this I attended a few meetings in these parts, and formed 
 some acquaintance with several brethren of the "Wayne quarterly 
 meeting, which had been just organized. The number of mem- 
 bers was small, yet there appeared to be some humble, faithful 
 souls among them. I enjoyed some interesting seasons, yet gener- 
 ally my spirit continued in bondage, and my labors still seemed to 
 be almost useless. But as I was confident my commission had been 
 received from the Lord, I dared not forbear to warn the wicked, 
 I continued my journey to New York, and held several meetings 
 by the way, still laboring under trials, and doubting whether I 
 should ever again enjoy the settled peace that once blessed my 
 soul. Yet the oath that I made on the day of my espousal, was 
 engraven on my heart, and I felt no inclination^ to violate it; but 
 when tempted to give up my hope, I would say in the language of 
 Peter : " Lord, to whom shall I go ? thou hast the words of eter- 
 nal life." At Hanover, N. Y., I took my gig which I left there 
 13 
 
146 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 when going to Ohio, and proceeding on my way homeward, held a 
 few meetings in the western part of the state. 
 
 About the first of Dec., 1825, 1 arrived at my father's in Juni- 
 us, having been absent about fourteen months, and was received 
 affectionately. 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 My Trials and Lahors for seven months after my return from, 
 
 Ohio. 
 
 My soul continued in a furnace of affliction. My hours passed 
 in gloom, and my days were numbered in much sorrow. I attend- 
 ed one or two meetings in adjacent towns, but such heaviness op- 
 pressed me, that I felt confident my labor was in vain. My de- 
 pression increased, and I dreaded to visit my brethren, expecting 
 they would be greatly disappointed in me — and their disappoint- 
 ment I thought would fill me with anguish. Believing my life was 
 of little use to the church or to the world, and thinking it matter- 
 ed little where I spent my time, I engaged a school in my father's 
 neighborhood, and commenced teaching about the 10th of December. 
 I made stated appointments twice a week in this vicinity, and once 
 a week in an adjacent neighborhood, and occasionally preached in 
 other places, particularly in GaJen. Great darkness covered the 
 people : — Often I went to my appointments with a heavy heart, 
 and returned with the burden still increased. I enjoyed the socie- 
 ty of my father's family, and my three brothers attended the school. 
 These were pleasant temporal privileges, but they could not make 
 me happy while my Savior hid his face, and I could not see sin- 
 ners turning to God. In solitary places I wept, and prayed the 
 Lord once more to dispel my darkness and shine into my heart ; 
 but still I found no answer to my petitions. I read the Lamenta- 
 tions of the prophet Jeremiah, and applied such passages as these 
 to my case : " I am the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of 
 his wrath. He hath led me and brought me into darkness but not 
 into light. Surely against me is he turned ; he turneth his hand 
 against me all the day. He hath set me in dark places as they 
 that be dead of old. He hath hedged me about that I cannot get 
 out : He hath made my chain heavy. Also when I cry and shout 
 he shutteth out my prayer. — And I said. My strength and my 
 hope is perished from the Lord." Lam. 3:1 — 8, 18. Still, in this 
 
DAVID MARKS. 147 
 
 state of affliction, I knew God was just in all his ways, and that 
 he would be just, if for my unfaithfulness and my sins, he should 
 hide his face forever. Yet the Lord strengthened me, so that I 
 felt no inclination to abandon the cause of Christ, or yield my hope 
 in the promises of God : but I did seriously think of retiring from 
 a public life ; for all my preaching seemed like " sounding brass, 
 or a tinkling cymbal." I reviewed my experience and evidences 
 of acceptance with God. I could not reject them. Again I exam- 
 ined my evidences of having been called to preach the gospel. I 
 could not disbelieve. And now what could I do ? This commis- 
 sion was not " a light thing" that I might lay aside by my own will ; 
 and as the mandate, " Go ye — and preach the gospel,^^ had not been 
 repealed, I dared make no other conclusion than this ; that I would 
 preach according to my ability, and leave the event with God. I 
 tried to content myself by reflecting on the Scripture that saith : 
 '^ No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but griev- 
 ous : nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of 
 righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." And though 
 no animation or joy should ever again cheer my countenance, I re- 
 solved to live at the feet of my Savior, and I said with the Psalm- 
 ist : " Whom have I in heaven hut thee ? and there is none upon 
 earth that I desire besides thee" 
 
 In January, 1826, I left my school to attend the Benton quarter- 
 ly meeting, held at Flint Creek, in Middlesex. During my visit to 
 Ohio, there had been a great revival in this vicinity, and nearly 
 one hundred had been baptized in the town by Elder Wire. I 
 expected the converts would be generally present ; and should I 
 speak in the meeting, my testimony would be cold and useless. S^ 
 I concluded to be a disconsolate spectator, and entered the crowd- 
 ed assembly, hoping to find a seat in some corner, and pass unob- 
 served. But immediately every eye w-as fixed on me, and the 
 countenances of all seemed to tell, that they had heard of " the 
 boy preacher'^ in the days of his gladness ; and that now they ex- 
 pected to hear for themselves. I thought within myself, " Alas ! 
 you will he disappointed — and this assembly will spy out my bar- 
 renness." The preacher who was addressing the people, stopped 
 and invited me to take a seat with the ministers. I was filled with 
 confusion, hid my face, and w^ept on account of the poverty of my 
 soul. After becoming a little composed, I looked around on the 
 assembly, and saw perhaps one hundred happy converts. They 
 were singing one of the songs of Zion — heaven seemed to shine in 
 their countenances — and for a few minutes, my soul was melted 
 and charmed with the beautiful sight. After this they spoke in 
 quick succession and with much power ; but it reminded me of a 
 touching contrast — the difference betw^een their state and mine. 
 
148 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 Again my poverty pressed upon me, as a burden that was insup- 
 portable, and I wept as though my tears were a fountain. At 
 length I arose and began to speak ; — my heart broke^ — and, " Glo- 
 ry to God," in this very hour the winds of Heaven began to blow 
 on my souL The clouds that had covered me five months, now 
 fled away. The glory of God beamed upon me, and again I tast- 
 ed the happiness that had formerly gladdened my spirit. O, how 
 easy it was to speak the word of the Lord. A few hours after 
 this, I willingly accepted an invitation to preach. It seemed as 
 though all I had to do was to receive the w^ord immediately from 
 God, and speak it to the people. The assembly was greatly melt- 
 ed, and I felt myself exceedingly abased and humbled before God. 
 His presence was glorious and awful. After this, many spoke, and 
 we enjoyed a refreshing time. Now it seemed as though I was in 
 a new world ; and my joy for this deliverance was inexpressible. 
 
 Why I had been thus forsaken of the Lord, had been a query 
 which I was unable to solve. But now it appeared to me that 
 God had especially designed this visitation for the trial of my faith, 
 and to strengthen others. As Whitfield says, " Ministers should 
 be tempted in all things like unto their brethren, that they may be 
 able experimentally to succor those that are tempted." Again, I 
 found that this affliction had worked for my good, in that it had 
 weaned me from the world, taught me to feel my dependence on 
 God, and had humbled my pride. 
 
 On the Sabbath, meeting was appointed in two places, but the 
 heart of the people was together, and they crowded into one assem- 
 bly. This was a day of Emmanuel's power, and a time of great 
 Joy . Again it fell to my lot to speak to the people, and I feared 
 Sat ray clouds would return ; but it pleased the Lord to give me 
 as much freedom as I enjoyed the day before, and again, in my 
 own sight, I sunk down as nothing before the Lord. O blessed be 
 his name, for his great mercy to an unworthy child. After 
 meeting, I returned to my school happy in God. Now I regretted 
 that I had engaged the school, for the Lord's harvest appeared in- 
 viting, and I wished to be laboring therein. In my public commu- 
 nications, however, the Spirit gave me freedom, and I enjoyed 
 much peace in opening and closing my school by prayer, and in 
 frequently speaking to my scholars. 
 
 In the early part of March, I was called to sit on a council of 
 business in Sodus, appointed by the Benton quarterly meeting. 
 The council proposed to set me apart to the work whereunto the 
 Lord had called me. This was unexpected. Considering my 
 youth, and that the request had not been presented by the church 
 of which I was a member, I was doubtful respecting my duty. 
 But after making supplication to God for direction, the mmistecof 
 
DAVID MARKS. 149 
 
 the church in Junius being present, I consented to their proposal 
 on the 5th of March, 1826. After my return to Junius, the church 
 accepted my new credentials and gave me a letter accordingly. 
 Shortly afterward, on the day appointed for communion in Junius, 
 it unexpectedly fell to my lot to break bread to the church. This 
 being a duty that had not before devolved on me, the cross was 
 considerable, and I cried to the Lord for assistance. Language 
 cannot describe how unworthy I felt to officiate in the ordinances 
 of God's house, particularly in the holy supper. With a trembling 
 hand I moved forward to handle the symbols of my dear Savior's 
 broken body, and in doing this my soul was strengthened and bless- 
 ed. God's presence was in the meeting, and we had the witness 
 that our fellowship was with the Father, and with his Son Jesus 
 Christ. 
 
 About the 15 th of March, I closed my school, and to some of 
 my scholars, as well as myself, it was a solemn day. I looked on 
 the children that had been three months under my care, and re- 
 flected on the change that twenty years would make. How many 
 would then be in the tomb — and how many of those who should 
 survive would be scattered. I prayed that they might be prepar- 
 ed for the scenes of the future. Solemn was the thought, that my 
 words and examples had made impressions, that would be remem- 
 bered by them long after I should be laid in the grave. So, I 
 prayed that wherein I had erred, the Lord would forgive ; and that 
 those deeds which I had wrought in the light of God, might be en- 
 graven on their hearts, and instrumental of good to their souls.. 
 Two of my scholars had for some time appeared serious, and though 
 they did not as yet submit to the cross, I hoped these impressions 
 would terminate in their reconciliation to God. 4li^ 
 
 In the latter part of the month, I went to Ontario, Penfield, aOT 
 Perinton, and enjoyed some refreshing meetings with the churches 
 in these towns. In some instances the glory of the Lord shone 
 round about us. We witnessed a few cases of awakening, and 
 conviction followed a small number till they were converted.- 
 "VMiile I was in these towns several communicated liberally to my 
 temporal necessities. 
 
 After holding meetings in several other towns, I returned to Juni- 
 us, preached a few times, and then, in company with my eldest 
 brother, visited my sister in Ithaca. Here I parted with my broth- 
 er, who was to start immediately for Michigan. We had spent the 
 winter together, and the reflection that probably we should never 
 enjoy each other's society in a like opportunity, increased the pain- 
 ful interest of this occasion. As my brother went out of my sight,. 
 I thought within myself, " thus children soon grow up into life, and 
 like the young birds of the nest, are scattered in the world." 
 13* 
 
150 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 After preaching at Ithaca, I visited several other towns within 
 the limits of the Owe^ quarterly meeting, preached the word to 
 many congregations, and enjoyed the witness that my labor was not 
 in vain m the Lord. I held two meetings in the town of Ithaca, at 
 the house of Esq. Dean, about three miles from the village. A 
 revival had just gladdened the hearts of many in this vicinity, and 
 these meetings were blessed with the presence of the Lord. One 
 desired baptism. This ordinance I had never yet administered. 
 A meeting for the purpose was appointed on the 9th of May, 1826. 
 The day was pleasant and the earth was arrayed in all the loveli- 
 ness of sj)ring. Previous to the hour appointed, I retired to a beau- 
 tiful pine grove, and spent a little time entreating the Lord to stand 
 by me this day and strengthen me for the solemn work before me. 
 I received much comfort, and went to the meeting very hftppy. 
 The Lord enabled me to speak with much boldness, and caused his 
 Spirit to move on the assembly. The candidate related her expe- 
 rience, and received the approbation of the brethren ; then we 
 walked to the water, and with feelings of deep self-abasement, I 
 administered the ordinance, and was greatly blessed. 
 
 From Ithaca I passed between the Cayuga and Seneca lakes, 
 crossed the latter from Ovid to Milo, and after holding several 
 meetings in different towns I attended the Benton quarterly meet- 
 ing in Middlesex, on the 12th and 13th of May, 1826. The as- 
 sembly was large ; many brethren and converts were present, and 
 we were favored with a heavenly season. At this meeting, I as- 
 sisted in ordaining a brother to the work of an evangelist. After 
 this I visited the brethren in Groveland and Genesco, and held a 
 few meetings ; then attended the Bethany quarterly meeting at Ladd's 
 ^mer in Clarkson, May 20 and 21. Itliink twelve preachers at- 
 ISied ; a large number of brethren were present, and a congrega- 
 tion of about one thousand people. The preaching was interest- 
 ing, and the season profitable ; but to me it was a time of trial. 
 Thinking it my duty to address the people, I named a text and 
 proceeded for a time with some embarrassment. Presently a con- 
 fusion in the meeting, and the circumstance of several leaving the 
 assembly, increased my difficulty ; the enemy took advantage, and 
 I feared that I had mistaken duty. From the restless state of the 
 congregation, I supposed the people did not wish to hear me — my 
 spirit sunk, and before my discourse was half finished I took my 
 seat. The information was given me, that the confusion in the as- 
 sembly had been occasioned by a man who was intoxicated ; yet 
 my conflict became great. I doubted whether the Lord had ever 
 called me to preach — and my trial seemed greater than I could 
 bear. As I went from the meeting, I vented my grief in bitter 
 weeping, yet this did not assuage the sorrow that filled my bosom. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 151 
 
 Elder Jenkins tried to comfort me, but I replied, " Such is mj bar- 
 renness that I cannot preach : I would be willing to preach, if my 
 labors could be instrumental of the conversion of any souls, or of 
 any good to Zion ; but they are cheaper than the dust, and I can- 
 not think it is my duty to attempt to preach, while so little good, 
 attends my efforts." He replied, " Brother Marks, you do not 
 know what good may arise from your labors, though now you may 
 see no fruits. God has commanded you to preach, and you must 
 preach, or be damnedJ^ His remark had no effect to relieve me of 
 my burden. I went to a wood, and laid myself on the ground far 
 from the hearing of any, and there for a long time, gave vent to 
 my anguish. My life appeared to me useless, and I thought I 
 should hardly again desire to see the face of man. But after con- 
 sidering the subject, and not being able to persuade myself that 
 God had not called me to labor in his vmeyard, I thought if the 
 Lord would hide me in the grave, this would be pleasant. Yet as 
 I saw no alternative, I resolved to cast my care on Jesus, and sub- 
 mit to my duty amid all my poverty of soul. When the dews of 
 the evening began to fall, I i-eturned pensive to the house of a 
 friend, where some dear brethren endeavored to persuade me that 
 this fiery trial would only purify me, and fit me for greater enjoy- 
 ment and usefulness. A faint hope that this might be the effect, 
 caused my sorrow gradually to subside. I had an app.ointment 
 next morning in a neighborhood called Cook's settlement, and there 
 preached the remaining part of my discourse that was left unfin- 
 ished at the quarterly meeting. The Lord unveiled the beauties 
 of his face, gave me liis free Spirit, and accompanied the word to 
 the heart of the hearers. My late trials vanished like dew before 
 the sun, and my peace became like the floAving of a gentle riveisn 
 
 Leaving Clarkson, I preached a few times in Groveland, and about 
 the last of May held several meetings in North Penfield. Li 
 some of these, the Spirit of the Lord was manifested gloriously, 
 the children of the King were made happy, and some of them 
 shouted for joy. On the fourth of tTune, after meeting, we resort- 
 ed to a beautiful beach on the shore of lake Ontario, to attend the 
 ordinance of baptism. After prayer the brethren sung a hymn, 
 and were greatly animated by the good Spirit. I then led the con- 
 vert into very clear water, and my soul enjoyed a great blessing in 
 the performance of this duty. As we " came up out of the water," 
 the candidate was very happy and praised the Lord aloud. After 
 this, some were awakened in our meetings to seek the Lord, and 
 a small number professed to find " the pearl of great price.." 
 
 Near the middle of June, I attended a general meeting of the 
 Christian order in Mendon. Here I heard Elder Capron preach, 
 that the destruction with which the wicked sliall be punished, will 
 
152 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 effect an end of their being. Another minister, who had come 
 from the south, preached, that " we are not to be forgiven for 
 Christ's sake." I was attached to this denomination, because I be- 
 lieved them to be an humble. Christian people, whom the Lord had 
 blessed to the conversion of many. As a people, they had ever 
 treated me with Christian affection, and I had expected to find 
 food to my soul in this meeting. But by hearing these doctrines 
 preached, and argued without contradiction, my mind was brought 
 into a trial. I conversed with some of the preachers, and objected 
 to these ideas, supposing they were not generally approved by the 
 denomination ; and remarked, that I had expected some of the 
 preachers would publicly oppose them. One of the ministers re- 
 plied, " Brother Marks, I will tell you plainly, that I do not believe 
 God loill fry the wicked, eternally in helV^ I was shocked by the 
 expression, and this representation of the Bible doctrine, that the 
 wicked " shall be cast into the lake of fireJ^ I asked him whether 
 he believed the doctrine of annihilation^ or of restoration ? He 
 declined giving me any answer, except saying, that he believed all 
 the Bible taught on this subject. Some of the preachers that were 
 present, however, disapproved of these sentiments. But what 
 created the greatest trial, was, the remark that we were not to be 
 forgiveft for Christ's sake, together with the arguments that accom- 
 panied it.* If I understood the doctrine of this sermon, it was, that 
 nothing had been merited by the sufferings of Christ in behalf of 
 sinners — ^and that God, the Father, pardons men, not by virtue 
 of any atonement made by Christ — but merely because the sinner 
 repents and God is good. By this doctrine, it appeared that Christ 
 had acted only by a delegated power, and that he had done nothing 
 more for the salvation of men, than any other prophet, except that 
 he was the mediator of a greater dispensation. From these ideas, 
 the following queries were suggested : " If Jesus be not the true 
 God, why should we worship him ? Whj should the angels worship 
 him ? Why should God give directions that any other being than 
 himself should be worshipped ? Why should the Father require 
 that Jesus should be worshipped because God hath worked by him, 
 rather than that Moses should be worshipped, because God wrought 
 wonders by him ?" After reflecting a little while on these queries, 
 this Scripture, like Sinai's thunder, came to my mind : " Thou shalt 
 worship the Lord thy God, and Ilira only shalt thou serve." Matt. 
 4 : 10. At this instant, all nature seemed to declare the inconsis- 
 tency of worshipping, or of giving divine honors to any other be- 
 ing, than " the only living and true GodP It seemed to me, if 
 Jesus be not God, and yet have divine honors given him, because 
 of his liigh mission, on the same principle, all the prophets, apos- 
 tles, and pei'sons sent of God, should also receive divine honors. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 153 
 
 proportionate to the extent of their mission. Notwithstanding 
 these reflections, I knew not what to believe of Jesus Christ. For 
 the Unitarian arguments had so influenced my belief, and so 
 formed the connection of my thoughts, that I supposed the doc- 
 trine that Jesus Christ is the true God, could not be proved from 
 the Scriptures. Indeed, to this sentiment, I thought there were 
 imanswerable objections. On the other hand, I could see no pro- 
 priety in worshipping any being except the true God. And on 
 this principle, the Scriptures now appeared to be involved in great 
 obscurity. 
 
 " When Unitarian unbelief, I think, 
 
 Took hold of Peter, he began to sink ; 
 
 Our Lord, as if surprised at this, cried out, 
 
 'O, thou of little faith, why didst thou doubt ?' 
 
 Let this reproof suffice for every one 
 
 That doubts the power of God's beloved Son." 
 
 I was now like a ship without mast or helm, committed to the 
 merciless waves. At this time I had appointments to preach in 
 Penfield, Perinton, and in other towms. But how could I meet 
 them? I knew not what to preach, nor what to believe ! I attend- 
 ed them, however, and thought myself safe in restricting my re- 
 marks on this subject to the language of the Scriptures, though 
 their meaning to me was obscure. I read the Bible day and night, 
 and was much in secret prayer. But while I prayed, awful doubts 
 troubled me, and great darkness veiled my mind, so that like the 
 darkness of Egypt, I thought it could be felt. 
 
 Infidelity had no charms. But alas ! I saw no way to avoid its 
 principles, unless I could believe that Jesus Christ is truly God. 
 My whole soul could but shrink from the idea of two gods — ^the 
 Father, the only living and true God, and my Savior consequently 
 a dead and false god ! But how could two persons he one being ? 
 Alas ! my difficulties were very serious, and I feared, lest they 
 should force me to infidelity. I wished, unbiassed by the prejudi- 
 ces of education, to believe and know the truth. I resolved to 
 cease preaching, unless I could discern the truth of the gospel. I 
 could see no way to escape the gloomy forebodings of infidelity:-— 
 I regretted that I had received ordination. I remembered that the 
 council seemed to have some hesitancy, because my sentiments 
 with regard to the character of Christ were not sufficiently settled ; 
 but considering my youth as an apology, they concluded to lay 
 hands on me, believing I would become established in the trutli. 
 It now seemed that I should disappoint their hopes. Again I recol- 
 lected the many souls that I had seen converted, — the happy sea- 
 sons I had enjoyed with the saints, — and I thought, how can 1 
 wound those kind friends ? how can I disappoint the hopes of my 
 brethren ? — and can I bid such happy scenes an eternal farewell ? 
 
154 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 Yet, I said within myself, I cannot be a hypocrite — and if Heaven 
 do not remove these doubts, and open the way before me, 1 77iust — 
 I will retire from the church. But then, alas ! how can I endure 
 the presence of my Christian friends ! If this should be my un- 
 happy condition, I will leave this land — ^liide myself in the wilder- 
 ness of the west, and there dwell in obscurity till death. Now the 
 gloom of infidelity rushed upon me, like an overwhelming flood. 
 What ! no Savior ? — No sure guide ! — Life a scene of sorrow ! — 
 Death an eternal sleep i * * * * * * 
 
 From the evidences of Christianity/, and from my own experi- 
 ence, I could find nothing to confirm an unhallowed doubt. My 
 trials originated solely from my Unitarian views of the character' 
 of Christ. I opened my mind to brother Thomas Parker, a 
 preacher of our connexion in Perinton. He tried to encourage 
 and strengthen me ; and, as he has since told me, after we separa- 
 ted, he went into a wood and prayed a long time with many tears, 
 that I might be saved from the snare of infidelity. I attended my 
 previous appointments, gave out no more, and doubted whether I 
 should ever attempt to preach again. I continued to search the 
 Scriptures, and to pray the Lord for deliverance. But my way 
 was all closed up, and I considered much on the manner in which 
 I might retire from a public life. I thought, however, before I 
 made any new conclusions, I would visit Elder J. N. Hinckley, 
 and lay my case before him. He had been an atheist for eight 
 years previous to his conversion, and I looked to him for counsel 
 as to a father in Zion. After telling him all my doubts, he said, 
 " Brother Marks, you study too much, you travel too much, and 
 you preach too much. The mind is as easily wearied as the body ; 
 and yours is so much wearied, that you know not what you are, or 
 where you are. By abstinence, the perception of the mind is 
 quickened, and you must moderate till you become rested and 
 calm." He then took me to his mills, fields, &c., and conversed 
 freely on many subjects, but declined saying any thing on the sub- 
 ject, which for two weeks had engrossed my w^hole attention. Af- 
 ter passing the greater part of a day in this manner, he took me to 
 a room alone with him, and taking his Bible, asked me if I would 
 believe Jesus Christ to be God, provided he would prove that he 
 created the world ? Without hesitation, I answered in the affirma- 
 tive ; but being prepossessed with the Unitarian argument, that 
 the Father made the world by Christ, as an agent only, I did not 
 expect the proof proposed. He began to read the first chapter of 
 Paul's epistle to the Hebrews. I had committed this chapter to 
 memory, and thinking all the ideas it contained had been previous- 
 ly considered, I supposed that neither the 8 th and 9 th verses, '' Thy 
 throne, O God, is for ever and ever," &c., nor any part of the chap- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 155 
 
 ter, could affect my mind. But when he came to the tenth verse, 
 where the Father still addresses the Son, he put his finger on it, 
 and read with emphasis, " And thou, Lord, in the heginning hast 
 laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the works of 
 thy handsr Before he had concluded the reading of this sentence, 
 cold chills began to pass over me — and bursting into tears, like un- 
 believing Thomas, I exclaimed within myself, " My Lord and my 
 Godr 
 
 From this moment, faith began to revive in my soul. Elder 
 Hinckley now remarked on the objection which I had presented, 
 viz., that " the Son of God could not be the Father, or God him- 
 self. Said he, " A river proceeding from a lake cannot be called 
 the lake itself, yet the stream may be called water, and the fountain 
 water ; and one is as truly water as the other, because the sub- 
 stance in the two bodies is the same. So, a son of man receives 
 from the parent a perfect human nature, the entire nature of his 
 species ; — yet this makes not another nature, nor another species of 
 being; but the nature and species in the father and in the son are 
 the same, though in two persons. In like manner, ' the only begot- 
 ten of the Father,^ possesses the nature of the Father, inherent and 
 entire ; and this nature, or divine substance of the Son, is as just- 
 ly called God, as the divine fountain from which it proceeded." It 
 might be improper here to relate the chain of reflections in full, 
 and the passages of Scripture that raised me from the borders of 
 infidelity. Sufiice it to say, that the tenth verse of the first chap- 
 ter of Hebrews, commenced my convincement ; and that by a 
 close examination of the Scriptures, my faith increased, and I was 
 brought firmly to believe that Jesus is truly " God with us" And 
 to this day I have never doubted in saying of Him, " This is the 
 true God, and eternal life." 1 John 5:20.* 
 
 After this I related to Elder Elijah Shaw, a preacher of the 
 Christian order, the particulars of my convincement, that Jesus our 
 Savior, is as truly God as is the Father. He replied, " When you 
 became established in this sentiment, you became established in a 
 blessed good sentiment." 
 
 I now returned to Penfield and Perinton, greatly comforted, and 
 enjoyed some favored seasons in preaching the Lord Jesus, as the 
 only " name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be 
 saved." 
 
 * When I attended the New Hampshire yearly meeting at Weare, in the year 1824, I 
 heard Elder Enoch Place preach on the character of Christ. The doctrine distilled like 
 the dew, and I was greatly delighted till I heard his concluding sentence, "This is the 
 eternal God, and besides Him there is no Savior." This sentence damped my joy, and 
 caused cold chills to pass over me ; yet at this instant I observed the assembly dropped 
 as it were a flood of tears; and that which so chilled my feelings, was sanctioned by 
 the sound of " Amen," from many voices. But since the time I cried of my Savior with 
 unbelieving Thomas, " My Lord and my God-,'''' this doctrine has been sweet to my soul. 
 
156 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Particulars of my Lahors from July, 1826, to September, 1827* 
 
 In July, 1826, I spent several weeks in Ontario, and preached in 
 different neighborhoods. I had the satisfaction of seeing frequent 
 instances of conviction, and was often filled with joy, while I saw 
 the saints happy, and sometimes heard sinners cry for mercy. 
 Among those that were awakened, was an interesting young man, 
 the son of a Quaker,* and three young ladies, that were school 
 teachers. They were the first that publicly confessed their desire 
 to find Jesus. These and several others were soon brought into 
 liberty, and rejoiced to take the cross and follow Christ. Sabbath, 
 July 23, I had an appointment in the north part of Ontario for 
 baptism. The Lord gave me freedom, and many appeared quite 
 solemn. The wind having raised the waves on lake Ontario, so 
 that baptism could not be attended to in this place, we proceeded 
 four or five miles west, to an inlet, where I baptized two,. As I 
 came out of the water, I was very happy, and began to exhort a 
 young man that was a Universalist, to repent and believe in Christ. 
 His reply only evinced his impenitence, and showed how little his 
 doctrine influenced him to " the fear of the LordP 
 
 In the latter part of July, I preached in several towns west of 
 Rochester, and in the early part of Aug. went east as far as Juni- 
 us, and preached in many places. I also visited several churches 
 of the Benton quarterly meeting, and attended the August term of 
 said meeting, which was held in Italy. A large number of people 
 and brethren convened in a pleasant grove. The preaching was 
 spiritual, and many said it was one of the best quarterly meetings 
 they ever attended. I never shall forget how solemn my soul felt 
 while preaching the word, neither how some shouted, that I thought 
 would not do thus in a public assembly. Still my heart said, 
 " Xe^ the inhahitants of the Rock sing; let them shout J^ During 
 three weeks following this meeting, I visited several churches, 
 preached in different towns, and enjoyed some refreshing sea- 
 sons. 
 
 August 26 and 27, 1826,1 attended the sixth session of the Hol- 
 land Purchase yearly meeting, held in Ontario. The Ontario 
 quarterly meeting, which had been organized from the Benton 
 quarterly meeting in the autumn previous, was at this time receiv- 
 ed into the yearly meeting. It contained eight churches, five or- 
 dained preachers, and about one hundred members. At this meet- 
 
 * This young man subsequently became a useful minister. 
 
DAVID MARK5. 157 
 
 ing I first saw brother Thomas Huckins, from London, Upper 
 Canada. He came a distance of two hundred and fifty miles to 
 attend this meeting, with a request for me to visit that province. 
 At this time there was but one Free-will Baptist church in Upper 
 Canada. This was situated in Dunwich, one hundred and fifty 
 miles west from Niagara river. Several years ago, brother Huck- 
 ins, with two or three families of Free-will Baptists, removed from 
 New Hampshire and Lower Canada, into this town. For some 
 years they endeavored to content themselves by enjoying religious 
 privileges with other denominations ; but not finding with them 
 that liberty which they wished to enjoy, about eight persons, for 
 the space of many months, held separate conference meetings, and 
 were called Free-will Baptists. About the year 1821, they sent a 
 man two hundred and fifty miles into New York for help. Elder 
 Jenkins went to them immediately, and gave them the hand of fel- 
 lowship as a church. Brother Huckins had lately commenced 
 preaching, and at this meeting related his call to the ministry, and 
 received a letter of commendation. Two ministers and myself were 
 appointed to visit the province immediately. 
 
 The meetings of worship were interesting. The preaching was 
 blessed to the awakening of some who never rested till they found 
 salvation. The revival that had commenced in this town previous 
 to the meeting, started anew, and continued till one hundred or 
 more, if I mistake not, were converted. Among these was Free- 
 born W. Straight, the young man whom I addressed a month be- 
 fore, when coming up out of the water after baptism. 
 
 Sabbath, Sept. 3, I preached in Ontario, and the heavenly cloud 
 seemed to be spreading fast. The cries of the awakened, and the 
 entreaties of the converts, that I should stay and labor with them, 
 made me almost regret having engaged to leave the town. But, 
 believing duty called, I left them, praying that they might " seek 
 the Lord till He come and rain righteousness upon" them. With 
 solemn feelings I turned my course toward Junius, and called on a 
 young woman in Palmyra, that attended my school the winter 
 previous. Having been sick several months, she had come to this 
 place to receive medical aid, and had requested this visit, expecting 
 it would be the last. She observed to me, " My physicians have 
 given me over — in a few days I expect to die, and I have no hope 
 in Christ ! When I attended your school, your exhortations often 
 reached my heart ; and though 1 felt their weight, and often wept 
 for my sins, still the pride of my heart prevented me from submit- 
 ting to the cross. Had I yielded to conviction, I might have had 
 salvation. But now, alas ! it is too late ! I think I have but a few 
 days to spend in pain, and then I shall sink to everlasting misery !" 
 I asked her if she was willing to kneel while prayer should be 
 14 
 
158 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 made for her. She answered, " Yes ;" and we bowed before the 
 Lord. I enjoyed unusual freedom in prayer, and thought the Lord 
 gave me a witness that she should receive the pardon of her sins. 
 Li the mean time she began to weep, and her sorrow and cries 
 seemed enough to touch the hardest heart. She arose, and wept 
 till her strength failed — the cold sweat stood on her face, and she 
 became still as though she were dead. We were alarmed, and for 
 a moment feared the consequences. Soon, however, she revived, 
 but shortly fell away again as before. Thus she apparently faint- 
 ed five times in quick succession. My faith that she would be con- 
 verted was shaken, and I seriously feared that instead thereof, she 
 would die immediately. While we were looking in fearful sus- 
 pense, she revived again, and seeing her sister, she inquired, "Why 
 do you look on me so intently ?" Her sister asked if she did not 
 know that she had fainted. She said, " I am well — where am I ?" 
 Being told she was where she had usually been, she could scarcely 
 believe it, and said, " I never was in a place so beautiful as this — 
 every thing shines like gold." Addressing her sister, and other 
 friends that stood around, she said, " How beautiful you are ! — I 
 never loved you so before — O, how happy I am ! I believe the 
 Lord has forgiven me all my sins. Blessed be his name." The 
 next morning she remarked, " Many a night have I spent weep- 
 ing for fear of the punishment that awaited me ; but last night I 
 could not sleep, because of the heavenly joy that filled my soul ; 
 for the goodness of the Lord appeared so wonderful, that I could 
 but praise him all the night." Walking out, she exclaimed, " O, 
 how beautiful is the face of the earth, and every thing that meets 
 my sight ! This appears like a new world !" As I was about to 
 leave, she said to me, " Brother Marks, before you go to Canada, 
 I wish to return to Junius, confess Christ before my associates, and 
 l>e baptized. Then I can die in peace." 
 
 On my arrival at Junius, I understood the young woman had 
 been removed to her father's, and that she scarcely waited to in- 
 quire after the health of her friends and associates, before she told 
 them what great things the Lord had done for her soul. I attend- 
 ed a meeting at her father's house, and immediately after the ser- 
 mon, she sat upon the bed side, supported by two female friends, 
 and in a solemn, impressive manner, related her experience. She 
 then requested the assembly to look on her feeble form, and take 
 warning. Said she, " I feel it my duty to be baptized to-morrow, 
 and in a few days I expect you will see this frame wrapped in a 
 shroud, and will follow me to the grave. O, remember what I tell 
 you, and no longer neglect the Savior." She exhorted the wicked 
 for some minutes, and her testimony was like a sharp sword. Many 
 in the assembly w^ept, and four young people came forward for prayer. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 159 
 
 On the day following, a meeting was appointed for baptism a 
 mile and a half from her father's. Two circumstances made this a 
 time of trembling to me. I had lived in this neighborhood from the 
 age of nine years,, and had never baptized any in the place. Be- 
 sides, the candidate was so feeble that she could not sit up an hour 
 without fainting, and some of the brethren thought it would endan- 
 ger her life. Others were. of opinion that she would probably die 
 in the performance of it. She would not^ however, submit to their 
 entreaties, but said, " It is my duty to follow my Lord in baptism, 
 and he will support me." I never realized more the need of di- 
 vine assistance than on this occasion ; and I was much in fervent 
 prayer till the time came. The candidate was placed on pillows 
 and blankets in a chair, and brought slowly to the meeting. When 
 she arrived, many, on seeing her pale face bound with a white 
 handkerchief, burst into tears. She was laid on a bed, and the ex- 
 ercises commenced. I felt all the solemnity while speaking to the 
 people that I ever had on a funeral occasion. Nor did the assem- 
 bly seem to be less impressed. Another young woman that had 
 attended my school, and had also obtained a hope in Christ, now 
 related her experience, and was received for baptism. Then the 
 one that was sick stood up, supported by another female, and in a 
 very solemn manner told how she had been convicted, how she had 
 grieved the Spirit, and how God had forgiven all her sins. She 
 spoke with much feeling of the happiness she now enjoyed, and ex- 
 horted her gay companions to leave their sins, and set out with her 
 for a better world. We proceeded slowly to the water, the dis- 
 tance of a quarter of a mile, while many dropped their tears by the 
 way. The sick candidate was seated in the chair, leaning back- 
 ward to prevent her from fainting. Prayer was made to God to 
 preserve her life, and strengthen her for the performance of this 
 duty. The young woman that first related her experience was 
 baptized, and came up out of the water rejoicing. The moment 
 dreaded by many had now come, and I said, " Sister Jane, wilt 
 thou be baptized ?" With heavenly serenity she answered, " Yes" 
 — arose, gave me her hand, and walked deliberately into the stream. 
 When she was raised out of the water, not a feature had changed, 
 except that her face shone as though she had seen God. Now she 
 was so happy that she seemed unwilling to leave the water. On 
 being seated again, she received the right hand of fellowship, and 
 a charge relative to the baptismal covenant. To these she emphat- 
 i<?ally added, " Amen" Many of the assembly were melted into 
 tenderness, and I think will never forget this scene. After she 
 had changed her apparel and received food, she remarked that she 
 had not felt so well for a week before. From the hour of her baiJ- 
 tism, she began to amend, and m a few weeks was entirely restor- 
 
IGO MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ed to health. For aught I know, she remains to this day, a lover 
 and a witness of the grace of God. O, that men would praise the 
 Lord for his wonderful works. 
 
 At this time there appeared a good prospect of revival in this 
 vicinity. But I was obliged to leave to fulfil my engagements, 
 though with feelings much as I had on leaving Ontario. Passing 
 through Benton quarterly meeting, I preached with several of the 
 churches. In a neighborhood of Middlesex, some revival had 
 just commenced, and again I was earnestly entreated to stay a few 
 days. But continuing my journey I proceeded to Number Nine in 
 Canandaigua. As I entered the house of brother Theodorus Bee- 
 bee, he said, " Bless the Lord ; I am glad to see you ; — I believe 
 God has sent you to this place." I sighed, knowing they would be 
 disappointed on learning that I could remain but one day. I at- 
 tended a meeting, and the Lord fastened conviction on the hearts 
 of several. The next day I went to Groveland, and attended a 
 meeting. My appointments had been given out on the way to 
 Canada, but having two days' leisure, I returned to Canandaigija, a 
 distance of thirty miles, and preached from Rom. 6:23, " The 
 wages of sin is death" This was a solemn, weeping time. Sev- 
 eral were awakened to seek the Lord, and afterward some dated 
 their conviction from the reading of this text. Eight came for- 
 ward for prayer, one of whom, a respectable young lady, cried as 
 she arose, " God he merciful to me a sinner." The prospect of a 
 revival in this vicinity, together with the impression that duty call- 
 ed me to stay and attend to the work, made me regret having en- 
 gaged to go to Canada. But as the engagement was conditional, 
 " If the Lord will" I finally relinquished my intention of visiting 
 the province, and concluded to go only as far as my appointments 
 extended, and then return immediately. Proceeding west, I at- 
 tended meetings in different towns, till I came to Lockport, one 
 hundred miles. 
 
 In this journey I called on a brother at Batavia, who told me 
 that there was a great uproar among the people — that the Free 
 Masons had kidnapped a man named William Morgan, of that town, 
 who was publishing the secrets of Masonry, — ^that, although great 
 efforts had been made to find him, it could not be found how they 
 had disposed of him — and it was feared he had been murdered. 
 He further stated, that on the night previous to his being taken 
 from Batavia, the printing office that contained his disclosures rel- 
 ative to Masonry, was set on fire a little after midnight, while ten 
 persons were asleep in that building and another adjoining it, and 
 that, had it not been accidentally discovered, those persons might 
 have perished, and a considerable part of the village have been de- 
 stroyed by the fire. He said also that on the day aft^r Morgan 
 
I? AVID MARKS. 161 
 
 was seized, a mob of about sixty persons, who were mostly stran- 
 gers, appeared at noon in Batavia, armed with clubs, and seized 
 David C. Miller, a mason, who was printing Morgan's disclosures 
 — took him to Strafford, and thence to Le Roy, where he was res- 
 cued by his friends from Batavia. He said it had been understood 
 that the Masons had determined Morgan's disclosures should be 
 suppressed ; and that the printing office was guarded with cannon 
 and small arms, and the people generally in readiness, expecting 
 every hour to be called to action in defence of their townsman. 
 
 These things were new to me, and it seemed unaccountable, that 
 two weeks could have passed since the commencement of these out- 
 rages, and the people generally in the towns fifteen miles distant 
 have heard notliing of it. Still I had a favorable opinion of Free 
 Masonry, and thought it very strange that so large a number of 
 masons could have been found to engage in such outrages. From 
 the account that masons had given of the principles of their insti- 
 tution, I supposed the fraternity would remove this stain upon their 
 order, by expelling those who had been guilty of such crimes, and 
 would use every effort to bring them to justice. As I passed from 
 place to place, I related some particulars of these outrages, without 
 the least idea of offending the masons. But, to my astonishment, 
 I found that the relation of these facts generally displeased them ; 
 and I was several times told, with angry looks, if I knew what was 
 for my good, I would mind my own business, and let these things 
 alone. I conversed with many masons about these occurrences, 
 and they generally affected to believe it was all a speculation^ and 
 that Morgan had run away to make sale for his book. They inti- 
 mated that Morgan had not revealed the secrets of Masonry — and 
 many who were generally thought to be good men, said if he had 
 disclosed the secrets of Masonry, " He ought to die,'' and " no death 
 would be too bad for him." One man who was a professor of re- 
 ligion, told me, if Morgan had revealed the secrets of the order, 
 he " coidd see him gibbeted in good conscience ^ 
 
 I now met with one of my greatest trials — several of my breth- 
 ren whom I highly esteemed were masons — yet unnumbered cir- 
 cumstances compelled me to believe that Masonry approved of 
 these outrages, and that the fraternity were combined to protect 
 the criminals — to close the press against these facts — ^and to keep 
 them as secret as possible. 
 
 On my return to Canandaigua, I learned that one had been con- 
 verted. I remained in this town for a time, preached daily, at- 
 tended conference meetings, and visited and prayed from house to 
 house. In almost every meeting there were some new instances 
 of conviction, or of conversion and confession of Christ ; and soon 
 I enjoyed the privilege of baptizing six converts. December, \y 
 14* 
 
162 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 1826, a church was fonned. The members solemnly covenanted 
 with each other to keep the perfect law, according to the grace giv- 
 en them, and maintain gospel order and fellowship, agreeably to 
 the Scriptures. 
 
 The work of the Lord continued ; but while we were thus fa- 
 vored, the enemies of the cross, by cruel slanders, tried to bring 
 the subjects of the revival into contempt and disgrace. Yet the 
 testimonies of Scripture, that " all that will live godly in Christ 
 Jesus shall suffer persecution," and that " it is enough that the dis- 
 ciple be as his Master," reconciled us to our lot, and made even 
 the converts rejoice, that they were counted worthy to " suffer for 
 Christ's sake." On the 17th of Dec. I baptized two, and on the 
 24th, three. Four of these were added to the church. 
 
 During the revival, I frequently preached in other towns, and 
 some of the meetings were blessed of the Lord. In the early part 
 of January, 1827, I made a journey eastward as far as Utica, and 
 held meetings with several churches of the Free Communion Bap- 
 tists. This denomination is distinct from the Free-Avill Baptists. 
 The principal difference is, that many of the Free Communion 
 Baptists believe in what is called the ^^ final perseverance of the 
 saints'' It is thought, however, that more than one half of the de- 
 nomination exactly agree with the Free-will Baptists. Another 
 difference is, they have a small number of articles, abstract from 
 the Scriptures. Their churches are situated mostly in New York, 
 and principally within one hundred miles west of Albany. Their 
 exact number I cannot state, but probably they had in 1827, 
 about forty churches and three thousand members. Not far from 
 this time, their annual conference was divided into two, called the 
 Northern and Southern conferences. The great western turnpike 
 is the dividing line between them. I am of opinion, that if the 
 Free Communion Baptists and the Free-will Baptists, should be- 
 come acquainted with each other, they might become one people. 
 
 In general they received me as a servant of the Lord. In one 
 town, however, there was an exception. On a Sabbath that was 
 appointed for communion, I attended their meeting, and was intro- 
 duced to the preacher. He invited me into the pulpit, and after 
 his sermon, asked me to conclude by prayer. Then leaving me 
 in the desk, he prepared the table, and invited all that had a good 
 standing in any Christian denomination, to come forward and par- 
 take. Accordingly I desired the privilege, and offered to show my 
 letters. He replied, " We do not wish to examine them ; we do 
 not doubt that your standing is good in the Free-will Baptist de- 
 nomination. But we have not as yet recognized the Free-will 
 Baptists as a Christian denomination." I understood that a Uni- 
 tarian preacher had been among them, falsely calling himself a 
 
DAVID MARKS. 163 
 
 Free-will Baptist, and by this means had occasioned a division in 
 the church. On this account they seemed to be afraid of me. 
 
 On the evening of Jan. 22, I spoke to a crowded assembly in 
 Fabius, and the Spirit of the Lord seemed to move on the people. 
 A Free-will Baptist church had lately been gathered in the place, 
 and they were enjoying a good season. Four converts having been 
 received as candidates, they requested me to baptize them. As I 
 had an appointment the day following at Spafford, I attended a meet- 
 ing the next morning at sunrise. A considerable number were 
 present, and unexpectedly two others related their experience and 
 desired to be baptized. One of these was a little girl ; but her 
 friends, though satisfied she had been converted, were unwilling 
 she should be baptized, because she was but eight years of age. 
 The snow was nearly tliree feet deep, and a tedious storm made it 
 very unpleasant; however, we broke a path nearly a quarter of a 
 mile, to a pond, where the ice had been cut for the occasion. After 
 five were baptized, the little girl before named, turned to her fath- 
 er, and bursting into tears said, " O, papa, do let me be baptized." 
 He asked me if I thought it would be right. I replied, ' Yes ;' 
 and he consented. Her tears dried up, a heavenly smile sat upon 
 her countenance, and while she went forward in obedience to the 
 command of Plim who said, " Suffer little children to come unto 
 me and forbid them not," her little heart seemed filled with joy. 
 
 I proceeded toward Spafford, and not having a change of ap- 
 parel with me, I rode all day with my clothes frozen, but took no 
 cold. Night overtook me when I was within three miles of my ap- 
 pointment, and the road was filled with drifts, so that I was oblig- 
 ed to crawl on the snow. With difficulty I got along thus for near- 
 ly a mile ; and on reaching the place found a crowded assembly. 
 As I was much fatigued, I thought I should not speak over half an 
 hour : but the Lord enabled me to speak an hour and a half with 
 considerable freedom. I next went to Canandaigua, and enjoyed 
 some good seasons with the converts, who were much engaged. 
 
 In February, 1827, I held meetings in Ontario, Penfield, Per- 
 inton, Macedon, Canandaigua, Groveland, Clarkson, Parma, So- 
 dus, Lyons, Junius, Benton, Milo, Barrington, Jerusalem, and Mid- 
 dlesex, and saw several converted. 
 
 I spent a considerable part of March in Canandaigua, and the 
 Lord favored us with some refreshings from his presence. The 
 number of converts increased to thirty or thirty -five. Several of 
 these joined the Calvinistic Baptists. About this time I took a 
 dismission from the church in Junius, and became a member of 
 the church at Canandaigua. In the latter part of the month, I vis- 
 ited and preached in several other towns. 
 
 Sabbath, April 1, was a pleasant day. Again the beauties of 
 
164 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 spring began to appear, and the forest songsters to praise their 
 Creator. Early in the morning I visited a young woman that had 
 been sick four years. Till within a few days she had had no hope 
 in the Savior to support her in her sickness. But now she was 
 resigned in expectation of certain death. I preached in Ontario 
 and Perinton. A young man spoke for the first time, and pro- 
 fessed that he had found the one thing needful. 
 
 April 2, 1 attended a debate that w^as appointed to be held be- 
 tween a Calvinistic Baptist and a Universalist ; but the former 
 being unwell, he desired me to take a part in the discussion. I 
 complied, and enjoyed much peace of mind and freedom in speak- 
 ing. Afterwards I understood that several were at this time con- 
 vinced that such as die in their sins, shall " be driven away in their 
 wickedness." 
 
 I next went to Attica, a distance of seventy miles, and enjoyed 
 an interesting meeting, — thence to Pittsford, and stopped a night 
 with a young man that had been a licensed preacher. But now he 
 was fallen into a state of scepticism, and professed atheistical prin- 
 ciples. I conversed with him — his mind appeared to be confused 
 and gloomy, and from his conversation, I concluded that he had 
 fallen into this state by neglecting to watch and pray, and by try- 
 ing to " find out God to perfection." 
 
 Monday, April 9, I left Canandaigua for Pennsylvania, having 
 a line of appointments previously given out. I met assemblies the 
 five days following, at Flint creek in Middlesex, at Jerusalem, 
 Milo, Barrington, Jersey and Catlin. In the latter place, seven 
 covenanted to seek the Lord, and some of them were soon after 
 liopefuUy converted. 
 
 April 1 6, I preached near Tioga river, in Pennsylva,nia. Here 
 the Lord gave me great liberty ; blessed be his name. I also 
 went to Delmar, held two meetings, and baptized one. After the 
 baptism, several prayed, some cried for mercy, and two backsliders 
 promised to return. I enjoyed a solemn meeting east of Wells- 
 borough, and on Friday, April 20, went on my way toward Troy, 
 Pa. I passed this day in much reflection and self-examination, and 
 felt a great sense of my poverty, and a great desire for more of the 
 mind that was in Christ Jesus. I had preached much to others, 
 and feeling in a state to be profited by hearing the plain truth of 
 God, I began preaching to myself, from Eom. 2:21, " Thou, there- 
 fore, which teach est another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that 
 preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal ?" I never felt 
 so much convicted under any sermon in my life, and for miles, 
 while travelling in the woods alone, I wept for my unworthiness. 
 At length I fell on my face, and solemnly covenanted to dedicate 
 myself more fully unto God. At a late hour I reached Troy, and 
 
DAVID MARKS. 165 
 
 spoke with much freedom to a waiting congregation. I had a 
 pleasant interview with Elder Asa Dodge. Religion was his whole 
 theme. 
 
 Sabbath, April 22, I preached in Smithfield ; some appeared af- 
 fected, others inflexibly hard. Early next morning, the neighbor- 
 hood was alarmed by the burning of a house and barn. I under- 
 stood that the father of the young men who owned the buildings, 
 set fire to them, and thus destroyed one thousand or fifteen hun- 
 dred dollars merely out of revenge. But alas ! sin will cause greater 
 destruction than this ! On this day I rode thirty miles, and met 
 an assembly in Owego. Elder Colby passed through this town 
 seventeen years previous, and in his journal he writes of the place 
 thus : " On leaving Tioga, I went down to Owego expecting to 
 preach somewhere in the village that day ; but they would not re- 
 ceive me. Of this village I can speak nothing favorable as to 
 their religion or piety. I was credibly informed that there was 
 not one Christian in the place, although it was a considerable vil- 
 lage." But it had now three good meeting-houses, and many 
 Christians ; and I understood that within the last ten days forty 
 persons had obtained a hope in Christ. Thus the wilderness be- 
 comes a fruitful field. During this week, I preached at Apalachi- 
 an and Owego creeks, in Candor, Dry den, and Ithaca. In all 
 these places I enjoyed good freedom. In Ithaca, nearly one hun- 
 dred professed Christians were present. They appeared very 
 plain and very humble. When I preached in this place a year 
 previous, little attention was given to religion. Since that time, it 
 was calculated that one thousand had been converted in the town. 
 Five hundred had united with the Methodists, three hundred with 
 the Presbyterians, and two hundred with other denominations. I 
 was told, that m this revival judges, doctors, lawyers, merchants, 
 &c. fell on their knees in the broad aisles, amid popular congrega- 
 tions, and prayed to God for mercy. 
 
 Sabbath, April 29, I attended a Baptist meeting between Cayu- 
 ga and Seneca lakes, but no liberty was given for any to speak ex- 
 cept the minister. Feeling the Spirit of the Lord upon me, I re- 
 quested liberty ; but none being granted, I began, after the people 
 went out, to address them on the green ; then, being desired to go 
 into the meeting-house, we returned, and the Lord enabled me to 
 speak with much freedom. Many in the assembly wept. After 
 this, I went to Ovid, and finding an assembly just gathered, desir- 
 ed the privilege of speaking to the people, which was granted. 
 The Spirit of the Lord attended the word to the hearts of many, 
 and several came forward for prayer. In the early part of May, 
 I attended two meetings in Camillus, two in Spafford, and a two- 
 days meeting in Fabius. The church in the latter place appeared 
 
166 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 well engaged, and the opportunity was profitable. May 7, 1827, 
 the ground was covered with snow. I made several visits, and the 
 day following preached in Woodstock. The power of God was in 
 the assembly, and fifteen or twenty manifested their desire to be- 
 come the disciples of Christ. May 10, I had an appointment in 
 the Baptist meeting house in Hamilton. A considerable assembly 
 attended. Having for my hearers several students from the sem- 
 inary, and many of the popular class, I was at first some embar- 
 raised ; but, falling on my knees, I cried to the Lord for assistance 
 —he heard me, and so filled me with his Spirit, that it appeared 
 to me, the people were but " as grasshoppers'^ before God, and 
 my fears of them were taken away. Some wept, and others 
 shouted. 
 
 Friday and Saturday, May 11 and 12, I held four meetings in 
 Brookfield and Plainfield, and on the Sabbath met an assembly in 
 Winfield. In the latter place, I spoke pointedly on the necessity 
 of Christians being separate from the world. A popular preacher 
 of the Seventh Day Baptists addressed the assembly, and told them 
 they had heard the truth. The next day, after going north to 
 Bridgwater, I staid a few hours, to witness the trial of several who 
 had just been taken for passing counterfeit money. While I ob- 
 served their joy and vanity at the genius displayed by their coun- 
 sel, on whom they seemed to look as their only friend, I thought, 
 alas ! poor creatures, unless you repent, who will brighten your 
 countenances in the Judgment ? who will plead your cause in that 
 last great day of trial ? Then you will be speechless — then you 
 will receive an irrevokable sentence. And, alas ! this will be the 
 fate, not only of counterfeiters, but of all who Hve in sin. Con- 
 tinuing my course north, I held two meetings in Rome. One was 
 a weeping time. A young woman came forward, trembling, kneel- 
 ed for prayer, and promised to seek the Lord. 
 
 In Taburg I attended a meeting, but enjoying no liberty, fell 
 again into trials, and, immediately after meeting, retired to a river 
 side at the foot of a hill — ^made a covenant with God — and " set 
 up a stone" for a witness. It pleased the Lord to lift upon me the 
 light of his countenance, and I went on my way rejoicing. I 
 preached in Trenton ; and on Sabbath, May 20, met an appoint- 
 ment at the meeting house in Russia, and spoke from 1 Tim. 2:4: 
 " Who will have all men to be saved," &c. I endeavored to an- 
 swer the principal arguments usually brought against the doctrine 
 of free salvation, and to enforce the obligation of repentance and 
 faith. The Lord accompanied the word by his Spirit. Blessed 
 be his name. After I left the meeting, a collection of five dollars 
 was brought to me. Being requested, I visited a young woman 
 who was very sick, and much concerned for her soul. She said to me, 
 
DAVID MARKS. l&i 
 
 " My great desire is to be prepared to meet God. If this might be, I 
 should not wish to live another day." Thus it is with almost all that 
 live in sin when they come to the gate of death; still they will not re- 
 pent while they are in health, and while they may. Sabbath P. M., 
 I spoke to a crowded assembly in Middleville. I returned to Rus- 
 sia, and preached again at the meeting house with unusual freedom. 
 One evening, after I had preached, about twenty converts came to 
 my lodging, and sung and prayed till midnight. A young man 
 present, said, that he had trusted in the doctrine of decrees, but 
 the Sabbath before, his refuge was swept away, and since that time 
 he had been much concerned for his soul. After midnight he be- 
 gan to cry for mercy. I was called up to pray for him, and be- 
 fore morning he professed to find peace. 
 
 Saturday, May 26, I attended the monthly meeting of the Free 
 Communion Baptist church in Russia. One hundred professors 
 spoke of the goodness of God. Elder Corps, a preacher of their 
 connexion, though niyiety-two years of age, was present, and ex- 
 horted his brethren to faithfulness. About a year before this time, 
 a great revival commenced under the labors of Susan Humes, and 
 continued, as I understood, till about three hundred professed to 
 pass from death unto life. Most of the converts joined the Free 
 Communion Baptists. The people were much attached to sister 
 Humes, and viewed her as a chosen vessel. On the Sabbath I 
 met with them again. During the following week I visited sever- 
 al towns at the south, and enjoyed happy seasons in preaching the 
 Lord Jesus. 
 
 In June, I returned to the western part of New York, visited 
 about twenty towns, and attended about thirty meetings with usual 
 freedom. July 2, I met two assemblies in Benton and Milo,.and 
 baptized one in each town. Some revival had lately been enjoy- 
 ed in both these places. On the 8th I preached in Canandaigua 
 and baptized two, who were added to the church. I spent the re- 
 mainder of July, preaching in Sodus, Lyons, Junius, in several 
 towns east of Canandaigua, and in several churches within the 
 limits of the Owego quarterly meeting. In these meetings sever- 
 al were awakened. ' O, may their awakening terminate in conver- 
 sion.' 
 
 In August, I attended a session of the Benton quarterly meet- 
 ing in Catlin, and also met assemblies in different towns till I ciEune 
 to Canandaigua. Here I preached a few times, then visited sever- 
 al churches of the Bethany quarterly meeting, and found them 
 generally prospering. 
 
 Friday, Aug. 24, 1827, I attended the -seventh session of the 
 Holland Purchase yearly meeting, held at Bethany. Several im- 
 portant subjects were considered with much union. Among these 
 
168 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 was Free Masonry. It appeared that great dissatisfaction had 
 arisen on this subject, and was rapidly increasing ; and the testimo- 
 ny of Masons, who were daily seceding, publicly declared the oaths, 
 ceremonies, and principles of the order, to be such as must strike 
 the feelings of every Christian with dread and horror. Their tes- 
 timony was confirmed by a thousand circumstances connected with 
 the abduction of William Morgan, which had come and were daily 
 coming before the public. These things caused many of the breth- 
 ren great pain, especially when they reflected that several in the 
 denomination who were much esteemed, were bound by oath to the 
 institution. Those preachers and brethren present, that belonged 
 to that society, retired by themselves to ascertain how far they could 
 concede to those who were tried on account of their connection with 
 Masonry. They reported that they would have no connection with 
 the institution, and would not attend their meetings, except in cas- 
 es when " they were summoned;'' that in this case they could not 
 agree not to attend — their obligation was of such a nature, that in 
 this thing, they were hound in conscience to have their liberty. It 
 was thought the brethren generally, who were Masons, would con- 
 cede to this position, and it appeared to be satisfactory to the year- 
 ly meeting. On Saturday at an early hour worship commenced in 
 a grove. The assembly was large, attentive, and solemn. On the 
 Sabbath, three sermons and several exhortations were given. The 
 blessing of the Lord rested upon us. In the ministers' conference 
 on Monday, we understood that the brethren appointed to visit the 
 church in Upper Canada, gathered another church in that province. 
 My appointment to visit Canada was renewed, and brother F. W. 
 Straight, who had lately received a letter of commendation from 
 the church in Ontario, was appointed to accompany me. 
 
 On Tuesday evening, I attended an interesting meeting in Cas- 
 tile, and on coming out of the house I observed the northern lights 
 to be more luminous than I had ever before seen them. They 
 rose in bright columns nearly over our heads with majestic gran- 
 deur. I remembered reading that the northern lights were never 
 seen till the year 1716. I felt very solemn, and reflected on the 
 prophecy named in Acts 2:19, 20: ^'And I will shew won- 
 ders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, 
 and fire, and vapor of smoke ; — before that great and notable 
 day of the Lord come'' About the time we arrived at our 
 lodgings, a bright column arose in the east, and extended over our 
 heads nearly to the western horizon. The edges were smooth as 
 a ribbon, the color was like fire, and its form was like the rainbow. 
 There were no clouds, and the light of this column, with those in 
 the north, illuminated the earth nearly or quite as much as the 
 light of the moon in a clear night. I ' thought much of the last 
 
DAVID MARKS. 169 
 
 day, and queried, " if my Lord should now come, am I prepared 
 to meet him ?'* I felt great composure, and thought if Jesus should 
 then descencf, and the trumpet be blown, my heart would say, 
 " Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus." Shortly after this, I visited 
 a family that did not believe in a day " of Judgment to come ;'* 
 but on this occasion, I was informed, they aM^oke, and seeing the 
 light, thought the Judgment day had come ; and some of them walk- 
 ed their chamber and wept bitterly, wringing their hands for an- 
 guish. Yet when the light began to lessen, their tears dried up, 
 and probably they said in their hearts, " My Lord delayeth his 
 coming." But to them, alas ! 
 
 " That awful day will come, 
 The appointed hour makes haste." 
 
 Leaving Castile with brother Straight we held meetings in sev- 
 eral towns west and north of Canandaigua lake and enjoyed profit- 
 able seasons. 
 
 CHAPTER XVL 
 
 My First Journey to London District in Upper Canada, 
 
 September '26, 1827, we commenced our journey from Canan- 
 daigua to Upper Canada, preaching by the way till we arrived at 
 Koyalton. A little company of saints had been gathered in this 
 place by Elder Crapsey, and organized into a church. We attend- 
 ed their monthly meeting, and on the Sabbath, October 7, preach- 
 ed with them ; the next day we crossed the Niagara river at Lew- 
 iston, and proceeded to Lunday's Lane. It was very rainy, night 
 came on, and with difficulty we could keep the road ; so we called 
 on strangers at a private house, and were kindly received. Soon 
 they recognized my countenance, having heard me preach in this 
 vicinity five years previous. Continuing our journey, we passed 
 through Hamilton and Ancaster, beautiful villages, situated near 
 the head of lake Ontario, and through Brandford to Oxford. At 
 Oxford, our carriage failed through the dishonesty of a smith that 
 repaired it at Hamilton, and besides suffering a loss of six or sev- 
 en dollars, our lives were greatly endangered. In about two hours, 
 we succeeded in getting repairs made that would answer for the 
 present ; and after proceeding a few miles, entered a seven mile 
 wood. The road was rough and muddy ; we got through about 
 dark, and calling at a house, were told that it was two miles to an 
 inn, and a very good road except a quarter of a mile through a 
 15 
 
17^ MEMOIRS OF 
 
 wood. We went on, passed over broken log bridges, and through 
 deep mud. It soon became so dark that we could not discern our 
 hand before us. When confident that we had gorte a mile, and 
 nothing yet appearing, but a thick forest, we feared that we had 
 missed our way, and might have to take our lodging in the retreat 
 of the wild beasts. If disposed to return, the way seemed impass- 
 able ; so, proceeding about half a mile further, we saw the light of 
 a dwelling which we found to be an inn, and were glad. They free- 
 ly gave us entertainment. Saturday, Oct. 1 3, we passed through 
 Westminster, crossed the river Thames to London, and proceeded 
 ten miles in a rough, miry road to the north part of the town. 
 Here was the residence of brother Thomas Huckins. On our ar- 
 rival he and nearly all the neighborhood were assembled in month- 
 ly meeting. A little boy piloted me through the wood to the meet- 
 ing about the time the people were beginning to disperse. They 
 were expecting us, and as soon as they saw me, they returned, and 
 I heard a shout of joy, and the voice of thanksgiving. This touch- 
 ed my heart — I thought, ' how many are weary of hearing the 
 word ; but with what gladness do these brethren receive a servant 
 of the Lord !' When I entered, the house was full of people, 
 nearly all of whom shook hands with me, and several wept. Af- 
 ter praying with them, I returned with brother Huckins. He was 
 the only preacher of the Free-will Baptist denomination then re- 
 siding in Upper Canada. A revival had commenced among them; 
 three had been converted, and three or four were seeking the Lord. 
 In the evening many came to our lodging, and though we were 
 much fatigued, they would not be satisfied nor separate, till they 
 had heard a short discourse. 
 
 Sabbath, Oct. 14, I preached with them, and enjoyed a good de- 
 gree of the Spirit. Some were awakened to seek the Savior, and a few 
 -came forward for prayer. On Tuesday following, I held a meeting at 
 a dwelling house in another neighborhood. The man of the house 
 -and his wife were members of the Methodist church : they told 
 us, that from a late examination of the Scriptures, they were con- 
 vinced that their infant baptism was not authorized by God, and 
 that now they believed it their duty to be baptized. On the same 
 day I returned to brother Huekina', spoke to a considerable assem- 
 bly, and seven covenanted to flee from the wrath to come. AVednes- 
 day evening, brother Straight preached, and the day after, I held 
 another meeting. On Friday, I was called to visit a family just 
 bereaved of an only son, three years of age. He was suddenly 
 killed by a pole which rolled from a log fence. The parents and 
 others wept exceedingly, and while I addressed them, they seem- 
 ed scarcely able to restrain their cries. The father said, he consid- 
 '^red it a loud call to him to be also ready, and that he was resolv- 
 
DATID MARKS. 
 
 1*1 
 
 ed to obey it. I attended the funeral : it was truly a time of weep- 
 ing and mourning. When the attendants began to put the child 
 into the coffin, the mother for a long time could not be persuaded 
 to commit her son to the " narrow house." She cried, " O I my 
 son, you were pleasant." This scene made every spectator feel 
 and sympathize. 
 
 On Saturday and Sabbath, six related their experience, were 
 baptized, and added to the church. All the exercises were bless- 
 ed by the presence of the Lord. Sabbath evening, many spoke of 
 the dealings of God with them, and several of the anxious said 
 they were resolved to seek the Lord till death, whether the/ 
 found peace or not. 
 
 Monday, Oct. 22, I left brother Straight in London, and preach- 
 ed in Westminster : two came forward for prayer. The next day, 
 I held a meeting four miles south of the Thames, and in the even- 
 ing preached in South wold. The latter meeting was very solemn. 
 One cried for mercy, and another promised to kneel and pray for 
 a season. On Wednesday I met an assembly near Dunwich, the 
 town where the other church was situated that we had come to vis- 
 it Several of the brethren were at the meeting, and received me 
 very affectionately. After speaking more than an hour, on less 
 than half the propositions of my text, and finding that my strength 
 failed, I appointed a meeting for the next day to finish my sermon. 
 The Lord gave me great liberty, and many wept. On Friday I 
 preached on Back street, from Ezekiel 33:11 : "Turn ye, turn ye, 
 from your evil ways; for why will ye die?" I think that I never 
 enjoyed greater liberty than on this occasion. My mouth was fill- 
 ed with arguments, showing the sinner his evil ways, and urging 
 unanswerable reasons why he should turn and live. The solemn 
 weight of eternal things seemed to rest on the assembly, and sev- 
 eral were almost, if not altogether, persuaded to be Christians. 
 Next morning several came to the house where I spent the night, 
 and we enjoyed a melting happy season in prayer. Four entered 
 into an engagement to seek the Lord. In the evening, the Free- 
 will Baptist church assembled for covenant meeting. It consisted 
 of twenty members, and though they had been destitute of preach- 
 ing nearly a year, they were well united. Several of the Calvin- 
 istic Baptists and their minister were present, and spoke in the 
 Spirit. Such unity prevailed in the meeting, that though many of 
 different denominations took an active part, a stranger could dis- 
 cover no difference in their sentiments. 
 
 Sabbath, Oct. 28, I spoke two hours and twenty minutes in Dun- 
 wich with unusual freedom, and in the evening preached again to 
 a crowded and solemn audience. Several manifested a desire to 
 become reconciled to God. The next day I held two meetings: 
 
172 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the latter was in the east part of Southwold, and a most solemn 
 and powerful time. Nearly the whole assembly came forward for 
 prayer. On the day following, I faced a tedious storm ten or twelve 
 miles to an appointment in Westminster. Only one person attend- 
 ed ; I prayed with him, then went to the river Thames and attend- 
 ed a meeting, but had a dark, trying time. Still I believed that 
 trials would work for my good. 
 
 On AYednesday, I returned to London and preached in the even- 
 ing. Nearly the whole assembly confessed Christ, one of whom 
 found comfort during my absence. The next day I attended a 
 meeting with brother S. at the house of Mr. Shoff. He spoke as 
 a penitent and several others said they were resolved to attend im- 
 mediately to the duty they owed their Maker. Friday, I preached 
 to a few in the east part of the town, all of whom arose for prayer, 
 I held a meeting the day following in the vicinity of the revival, 
 and one, on relating her experience, was received for baptism. 
 
 Sunday, Nov. 4, 1827. This day concludes twenty-two years 
 of my life. I have endeavored to return humble thanks to my 
 Heavenly Father for past mercies and firmly to resolve that my 
 dedication to Him shall be entire, that I will strive for victoiy 
 over all sin. All the particulars of this resolution I have written 
 this day ; and promised before the Lord, to read them daily for at 
 least one month. At ten o'clock I preached at the house of broth- 
 er Huckins in London, and baptized four converts. In the after- 
 noon we came to the table of the Lord, and sat together in a heav- 
 enly place in Christ. The day following, we held another meet- 
 ing, and nearly all spoke of the goodness of the Lord. On Tues- 
 day, I preached two or three miles east of the revival, to about for- 
 ty, who covenanted to seek and serve God ; but some, I feared, did 
 not realize their obligation, others appeared to be truly pen- 
 itent. Wednesday, Nov. 7, I preached a farewell discourse 
 from 2 Cor. 13:11: ^^ Finally^ brethren, farewell. Be perfect, he of 
 good comfort, he of one mind, live in peace ; and the God of love 
 and peace shall he with you^^ After the exercises closed, three 
 professed to have found Christ, and two of them requested to be 
 baptized before I went away. As I had made appointments at 
 Dunwich, not expecting to return to London, I had not now time 
 to baptize ; so I concluded to meet my engagements, and then re- 
 turn. 
 
 Proceeding to Dunwich, I preached by the way in Westminster 
 and Southwold. On the Sabbath, our assembly in Dunwich was 
 said to be larger than had ever before been in this township. It 
 pleased the Savior to favor me with unusual liberty, and I believe 
 the Holy Spirit searched the congregation. In the afternoon, Je- 
 sus made himself known to us " in breaking of bread." After this 
 
DAVID MARKS. 175* 
 
 I held three meetings, and thought the seasons were profitable. I 
 preached in the east part of Southwold again, and rejoiced to find 
 that the solemn concern manifested in my second meeting had not 
 abated. 
 
 Friday I returned to London, held a meeting in the evenings 
 and one the next day. Six related their experience, and were re- 
 ceived for baptism. In the evening, for the first time, I heard 
 brother Straight preach a sermon with much satisfaction. Sabbath, 
 Nov. 18, the assembly was large for this town, and after sermon, 
 the six candidates were baptized, rejoicing in the Lord. One of 
 them, a man in his seventieth year, had been confined by sickness 
 for a year past, and was brought to the meeting oh a sled. He 
 went into the water as though he enjoyed the strength of youth, 
 and came out happy. This was a remarkable hour. Heaven smil- 
 ed, and glory seemed to shine on the candidates, on the congrega- 
 tion, on the water, and, indeed, on all things around. As the peo- 
 ple returned from the water, the saints sung with such melody, that 
 it seemed almost as though the New Jerusalem had come down out 
 of heaven. In the evening brother Huckins preached, saints re- 
 joiced much, and sinners wept bitterly. How striking the contrast ! 
 The more of the Spirit of the Lord there is present, the more 
 saints will rejoice, and the more sinners will mourn. In this meet- 
 ing, five solemnly promised to seek the Lord till they should find 
 remission of sins. I remained a week longer in London, and held 
 meetings nearly every day which were attended with much inter- 
 est, particularly on the Sabbath. The Spirit of the Lord was man- 
 ifested in a powerful manner, and the word seemed to cut to the 
 heart of every sinner present. I baptized the wife of the man 
 aged seventy, that was baptized the Sabbath previous. She was 
 sixty-eight years of age, and within four or five days had experi- 
 enced a change of heart. 
 
 Monday, Nov. 26, I preached again and bid the people farewell. 
 It was a very solemn season. One backslider humbly entreated 
 the forgiveness of his brethren whom he had grieved. Next morn- 
 ing, a little after the dawn of day, the brethren began to assemble 
 at the house where I spent the night, notwithstanding I had bid 
 them farewell, and continued to come till nine o'clock, when near- 
 ly the whole church and several others were present. Some wept 
 all the morning. As I was about to say to them, in the language 
 of the apostle, " What mean ye to weep and to break my heart ?" 
 brother Huckins said, " Brother David, you are now going away — 
 here are souls near the kingdom of God, that probably will soon 
 be converted and wish to be baptized. Wlio shall baptize them ?** 
 When I considered their state, how they were without a shepherd^ 
 I could but weep with them, and an earnest cry arose in my heart 
 15* 
 
174 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 that the Lord would send more faithful laborers into the harvest. 
 After uniting in prayer, they sung a hymn suited to the occasion, 
 and our parting was very affecting and solemn. "\Yhen I was out 
 of hearing, I gave vent to my feelings in an adjacent wood, and 
 wept aloud. Here I prayed for the dear brethren in Canada, 
 that God would enlarge their borders, till the " spreading vine of 
 low stature" should extend over the province. I had spent more 
 than six weeks in these parts, baptized seventeen in London, and 
 the church had increased to forty-four. The church in London is 
 situated thirty miles north of lake "Erie, and about one hundred 
 and fifty miles west of Niagara river. Though they had no ad- 
 ministrator, they lived in great union, walking in the order and dis- 
 cipline of the gospel. Several of their women were much devot- 
 ed to the Lord. 
 
 Brother Straight and some others joining me, accompanied me 
 on my way to the river Thames, where I parted Avith brother S., 
 he having concluded to spend the wmter in Canada. I proceeded 
 to Oxford, and after considerable entreaty, I consented to preach, 
 and went to the house of Elder James Harris, a Free Communion 
 Baptist, where I met a kind reception. In the evening I held a 
 meeting at his house, and to the praise of God we had a precious 
 season. Several were awakened, and came forward for prayer. 
 Some of these never rested till they obtained a hope in God. I 
 had designed leaving in the morning, but being earnestly persuad- 
 ed, I staid the day and held two meetings. I felt thankful for 
 these refreshing interviews. Sabbath I preached three sermons in 
 Blenheim. Continuing my journey, I passed through Ancaster, 
 and on Tuesday evening preached at Salt Fleet. The Spirit of 
 the Lord searched the assembly, sinners wept, and saints shouted 
 for joy. After meeting, several came to my lodging, and with 
 tears entreated me to labor with them a few days. But thinkmg 
 duty called me, I proceeded on my way, and on Dec. 6, left the 
 province. I had spent more than two months in Canada, and trav- 
 elled five hundred miles. The people generally were kind and 
 liberal. Though among strangers, and often lodging at public 
 houses, my expenses, besides some repairs, had not amounted to 
 fifty cents. 
 
 Continuing my journey eastward, I held a few meetings in dif- 
 ferent towns, and found the work of revival had commenced in 
 some of the churches of the Bethany quarterly meeting, particu- 
 larly in Byron. I attended a session of the Ontario quarterly 
 meeting in Sodus, on the 15th and 16th of the month, which was a 
 melting season. Sodus has often been blessed with such seasons ; 
 and would to God that her Christians, and all others that have 
 tasted that the Lord is good and gi-acious, would remember his 
 
DAVID MABKS. 175 
 
 kindness, and follow him with all the heart. On my return to 
 Canandaigua, I was affectionately received, and held two meetings. 
 Here I heard heavy tidings — the death of Elder Abel Thornton. 
 He died on the 12th of May, 1827, worn out in the mornmg of 
 life by his unwearied labors for Zion. 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 Particulars of my Travels and Labors fro7ti Dec. 1827, to May, 
 
 1828. 
 
 Having been appointed by the Ontario quarterly meeting, I vis- 
 ited a revival in the north part of Scriba, a town situated on the 
 south shore of lake Ontario, about eighty miles from Canandaigua. 
 A small church had been gathered in the south part of the town, 
 about seven years previous. At this time they had but nine mem- 
 bers. I understood the revival commenced three months before, 
 under the labors of an unordained preacher, and that at that time 
 there was but one praying man in the neighborhood. Twelve or 
 fifteen had now obtained a hope, several wanderers had returned to 
 their first love, and Christians in adjacent neighborhoods were re- 
 vived. Sabbath breakers and the openly immoral had reformed, 
 and now attended at the house of God. 
 
 On January 1, 1828, the salutation of friend to friend, " I wish 
 you a happy new year," was quite frequent. But to some in Scri- 
 ba this was emphatically a new year. Old things had passed away, 
 and all things had become neiv ; and they could say this was the 
 only happy New Year's day they had ever seen. At ten o'clock, 
 A. M. several -of the brethren and converts, with myself, met with 
 the Methodists in an adjacent town, and were afiectionately wel- 
 comed. I preached a discourse, and many spoke of the joy they 
 had found in the Savior, and covenanted to dedicate themselves to 
 Him with new engagedness. In the evening we had a profitable 
 meeting in Scriba. Several solemnly covenanted to spend the yeai* 
 in the service of the Lord. I was told by several persons, that 
 while they were returning from worship, they heard the voice of 
 singing in the air. The sky was clear, and they said the singing 
 appeared to be very high, and the most melodious of any music 
 they had ever heard, and continued directly over their heads while 
 they travelled about a quarter of a mile. A non-professor that 
 
176^ JTEMOIRS OF 
 
 heard it, was alarmed, believing it was the voice of arigels, and be- 
 gan to repent of his sins. From this time the M^ork revived anew. 
 Many forsook their sins and called on the name of the Lord. He 
 heard the cries of the penitent, and sent salvation to the broken- 
 hearted. Then did Zion rejoice with "joy and gladness, and sor- 
 row and sighing" fled away. 
 
 I continued laboring in Scriba for one month, and rejoiced to see 
 the work of the Lord spread so gloriously. Sabbath, Jan. 6, 1828, 
 after preaching, I baptized seven, and the next day gave the right 
 hand of fellowship to a small band of brethren, as a branch of the 
 church in the south part of the town. They were organized the 
 same as a church, and did their own business in the same manner : 
 shortly afterwards they became distinct, and were called the second 
 Free-will Baptist church in Scriba. Before the month closed, I 
 baptized eleven more. These, with two or three others, were ad- 
 ded to the church, and all appeared weE united and happy. 
 
 Sabbath, Jan. 20", I preached three lengthy sermons, and retired 
 much exhausted. For three weeks I had spoken upon an average 
 between three and four hours in a day. A little past midnight, I 
 was taken ill, and raised fresh blood very fast, till my strength fail- 
 ed. A death-like feeling seized me, and I expected to depart this 
 life immediately. I reviewed the doctrine I had preached, and the 
 manner in which I had spent my time — I found nothing to regret, 
 except that I had not been more humble, spiritual, and faithful in 
 my calling. I thought of my friends — I was willing to leave them, 
 believing that we should meet in a better world. I examiried my 
 evidences of acceptance with God — ^through gi'ace they were 
 bright as the sun, and this was one of the happiest hours I had ev- 
 er seen. There seemed but one step between me and heaven. 
 And now, with feelings that I had never before conceived, I con- 
 templated meeting the prophets, the apostles, the army of the re- 
 deemed, and my blessed Savior in glory. But when, in my feel- 
 ings I had bid my friends and the world farewells— and my soul 
 was ravished by the anticipation of an immediate admission into the 
 kingdom of heaven, my thoughts turned to a world of sinners, ex- 
 posed to hell. They, and they only, seemed to invite my stay in 
 the world. Something whispered, " Wilt thou still go and warn 
 them V Pity moved my soul — I wept for them and said, " Yes, 
 Lord, I will go and warn them as long as it shall be thy will, if it 
 he even forty years^ At this moment it seemed as though the at- 
 tendant angel was commanded to recall the warrant of death. Im- 
 mediately I began to amend, and in a few days my strength was 
 restored. 
 
 About the 30th of Jan. I preached my farewell discourse in Scri- 
 ba, and to many it was a solemn time. Fifteen or twenty had been 
 
DAVID MARKS. 177 
 
 hopefully converted during the month, and a considerable number 
 were still under conviction. After visiting and preaching in dif- 
 ferent towns, I returned to Canandaigua, spent a few days, and en- 
 joyed some good meetings. 
 
 Wednesday, Feb. 20, I left Canandaigua to visit the Owego and 
 Gibson quarterly meetings, and on the way to Middlesex, my mind 
 was impressed with the necessity of salvation from all sin. The 
 commandment of the Lord Jesus, Matt. 5:48, " Be ye therefore per- 
 fect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect,^^ came with 
 power into my soul. And remembering the declaration of the 
 apostle, 1 John 5:3, " His commandments are not grievous," my 
 unbelief fled away, and faith said, ' God's w^ays are equal, and his 
 requirements just.' " Whosoever therefore shall break one of these 
 least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the 
 least in the kingdom of heaven." Matt. 5:19. Then the following 
 queries arose, ' if he shall be least, who practices and teaches con- 
 trary to the least of Christ's commandments, what will be the fate 
 of him who not only violates, but teaches contrary to the greatest 
 commandment ? And what commandment is greater than this, to 
 be perfect, even as our Father in heaven is perfect ? How then 
 dare I, a vessel of the Lord's sanctuary, that ought to be holy in 
 body and in spirit, live in sin ? — and, like satan, bring Scripture to 
 justify my iniquity, or screen my guilty conscience? When I 
 preach to sinners that they should " repent," do they not quote the 
 words of Christ to justify themselves, " Without me ye can do noth- 
 ing ?" And were I to preach to Christians that they should be 
 " perfect," would they not say, " There is not a just man upon 
 earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not ?" ' After reflecting on the 
 above queries, the conviction settled into my soul, as if from heav- 
 en, that these Scriptures are as unjustly misapplied, as that quoted 
 by the tempter. Matt. 4:6, " Cast thyself down : for it is written. He 
 shall give his angels charge concerning thee," &c. Now it is cer- 
 tain that satan did act himself in reciting this text : he seemed to 
 have holy ScHpture directly to the point that he wished to gain. 
 So, alas ! it is a fact, and my blood chills at the reflection, that sin- 
 ners, and even saints, often quote Scripture as satan did, and make 
 an application equally erroneous, to justify their living in sin. 
 * And thou, my soul, be humbled exceedingly before God ; for 
 alas ! thou also, since Heaven forgave thee all, hast recited and ap- 
 plied Scripture to justify thyself; as though those who are redeem- 
 ed from sin could not help living in sin ! Hast thou found that 
 the death of Christ was not sufficient to enable his children to be- 
 come like Nathaniel, " an Israelite indeed, in lohom is no guile ?" 
 O be thou abased exceedingly, for thou hast applied the word of 
 God like unto satan, to content thyself without entire victory over 
 
178 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 sin. How vain was thy thought, that death, the offspring of sin, 
 should in any way save thee, or Jit thee for heaven. If the blood 
 of Jesus have not the cleansing power to perfect thee for glory, 
 how shall death fit thee for the better world ?* From these reflec- 
 tions I sunk into nothing before God, and turning aside into a wood, 
 I fell on my face, and called on the Lord, — and, blessed be his 
 name, I felt resolved in his strength to strive to live without sin, 
 and "follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth." 
 
 A large number asssembled at my appointment in Middlesex. I 
 spoke from Col. 2:6, " As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus 
 the Lord, so walk ye in IlimJ* I endeavored to urge the necessity 
 of Christian perfection, and, to the praise of God, we had a good 
 time. On Saturday, an appointment on a council called me to 
 Benton. In the evening, the council adjourned while I gave a dis- 
 course, and then sat till three in the morning. Sabbath I spoke to 
 an attentive assembly in Benton, from Acts 9:29, " And he spake 
 boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the 
 Grecians ; but they went about to slay him.** In the illustration 
 of the text, I noticed, first, the great controversy between the wick- 
 ed and righteous, error and truth, darkness and light, the enemy of 
 all righteousness and " the Judge of all the earth ;" secondly, the 
 character of the disputants ; thirdly, the position and arguments of 
 those engaged in the controversy — the resort of the wicked to per- 
 secution in support of their cause, when repulsed by sound argu- 
 ment — and the final victory of the Son of God. 
 
 Proceeding on my way, I crossed Seneca lake, and held a meet- 
 ing in I>ryden. Thursday, I stopped at a Methodist prayer meet- 
 ing, and the brethren would have me preach. Soon, some wept 
 aloud, others shouted, and two lost their strength. Eight came for- 
 ward for prayer, and four of them covenanted to kneel and pray 
 thrice a day, like the good prophet Daniel, for three weeks. I 
 passed through Owego to Apalachian creek, and Sabbath, March 
 2d, held two or three meetings. Several appeared to be serious, 
 and seven or eight came forward for prayer. During the week fol- 
 lowing, I attended six meetings in Gibson, Pa. and in towns in the 
 vicinity. On Monday evening, March 10, I had an appointment 
 in Owego, N. Y. Night came on, and losing my road, I wander- 
 ed some time in the dark ; but at length I arrived at the meeting, 
 and enjoyed much freedom in speaking. My next meeting was on 
 Owego creek ; only ten persons attended, but we found that the 
 presence of the Lord is not confined to a multitude. Wednesday, 
 I went to Candor, in which town I had an appointment in the even- 
 ing ; but it being very unpleasant, and the travelling bad, some 
 advised me not to go to the appointment, thinking that none would 
 attend. So I consented ; but soon feeling uneasy, I went two 
 
DAVID MARKS. 179 
 
 miles to the meeting, and found a considerable assembly^ and we 
 enjoyed a precious season. 
 
 Thursday, March 13, I met a crowded assembly in the place, 
 where, two weeks before, eight came forward for prayer. One of 
 the number was now happy. The Lord enabled me to speak with 
 power. Near the close, I told the assembly the Lord had express- 
 ly commanded them to choose without delay whom they would 
 serve — yea, that they should choose to serve the Lord. (See 
 Deut. 30:19; Josh. 24:15; Acts 3:19 ; 17:30 ; Heb. 3:7, 8 ; Matt. 
 4:17 ; 6:33.) And further, as Moses caused a division among the 
 people, Ex. 32:26, that it might be known who was on the Lord's 
 side, so I requested the people to make their choice, " and show 
 their deeds," reminding them that " nothing is secret that shall not 
 be made manifest." Luke 8:17. I further said to them, if they 
 secretly chose to put off repentance, it would be in reality to choose 
 satan for their master, and would thus be recorded in the book of 
 remembrance ; and that if they chose to serve the Lord secretly, 
 that secrecy is forbidden, Matt. 5:15, 16, and would be marked as 
 disobedience by the displeasure of the Almighty. About the whole 
 assembly arose to manifest that they would seek and serve God. 
 I reminded them that their covenant was registered in heaven, and 
 that " God shall bring every work into judgment ;" we then joined 
 in prayer. " But some man will say," ' they may break their cov- 
 enant — and in that case it will be worse than it would have been 
 if they had not covenanted.' The first is true ; but the latter may 
 be doubted, for had they not chosen the Lord, they must have 
 chosen sin. And which is the good choice ? To refuse to do right, 
 for fear that we shall do wrong, is to give up oui*selves altogether 
 to work iniquity. Our obligation to God is infinite, therefore our 
 promise cannot increase our duty. The use of a vow is, to make 
 ourselves sensible of our obligation. Hence, first, it is good to vow 
 unto the Lord ; and, secondly, to pay that which we have vowed. 
 
 On Friday I spoke in Dry den to a few, principally non-profes- 
 sors. The Spirit of the Lord was present, but I feared the great- 
 er part knew not "the time of their visitation." Alas ! what mul- 
 titudes are heedless of their precious day till it closes in eternal 
 night ! O my God, have mercy on them before their sun shall set 
 Sabbath, March 16,1 went to an appointment of Elder A. Daniels, 
 in Virgil, and, being invited, preached to the people. As I was 
 about leaving the place, a brother gave me a dollar. I was told 
 tliat a little before, a minister, who was a poor man, after preach- 
 ing a sermon, seated himself shivering with the cold, and this broth- 
 er took oif a new great coat and put it around him. When the 
 preacher returned it, he told him he had given it to him, and he 
 himself would wear his old one another year. " The liberal devi- 
 
180 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 seth liberal things ; and by liberal things shall he stand." An un- 
 converted young man also gave me half a dollar. 
 
 In the seven days following, I attended two meetings in Spafford, 
 two in Fabius, and one in Camillus, four in Conquest, and one in 
 Cato. Some of these were very solemn seasons. In the latter, 
 nearly all the assembly manifested by standing up, that they would 
 choose the Lord for their God. I feared, however, that some had not 
 become sufficiently humbled to persevere in their duty : others were 
 deeply affected, and I hoped they would bring forth fruit unto eter- 
 nal life. After holding another meeting, I w^ent to Junius. 
 
 I was never more gladly received than at this time. My friends 
 had heard and believed that I was dead ; and now when they be- 
 held my face, they seemed to view me as one that had arisen frona 
 the grave. On Thursday I had a very distressing cough, yet I 
 rode ten miles to Waterloo, and spoke to a few. Here I met a 
 younger brother. He was greatly surprised on seeing me, and 
 wept profusely. After the meeting, he took me aside and told me 
 he was resolved to seek the Lord, and the next day covenanted 
 with me to perform his resolution. After holding a meeting in the 
 west part of Junius, I went to Canandaigua. My friends in this 
 place had also heard that I was dead, and had withdrawn my ap- 
 pointments. I met with brother Straight, who was recently from 
 Upper Canada. He informed me that a large number in South- 
 wold and Dunwich, that came forward for prayer during my stay 
 in those places, had been converted, and were now waiting an op- 
 portunity for baptism ; and that he had come with a request for 
 me to visit them immediately. These tidings were " as cold water 
 to a thirsty soul ;" but having engagements for several weeks, I 
 could not go directly — so I sent appointments into the province for 
 the ensuing May. Brother Straight was soon after set apart to the 
 work of the ministry, and returned to Canada. 
 
 Sabbath, April 13, I preached twice in Byron. In the first 
 meeting, several manifested their resolution to choose the Lord for 
 their portion. God had lately visited his people in Byron : Chris- 
 tians were engaged, and several had been converted. The breth- 
 ren entreated me to remain, but duty would not permit. Next 
 day I went to Batavia, but indisposition prevented me from hold- 
 ing a meeting. A severe cough, that had sometime affected me, 
 still continued violent, and had much reduced my strength. Thus 
 infirmity attends me in this world ; but, glory to God, for the grace 
 that assures my soul of immortality. Tuesday and Wednesday, I 
 attended meetings in Alexander, Attica, and on the town line of 
 Alexander and Bethany. In the latter place was a glorious revi- 
 val, and nearly the whole assembly manifested a resolution to serve 
 the Lord. I preached at Canandaigua on the Sabbath, and attend- 
 
DAVID MARKS, 181 
 
 ed a conference meeting. The state of religion was rather low, yet 
 several wept for Zion. 
 
 In the latter part of April, after holding meetings in several 
 towns, I made another visit to Scriba. The converts remained 
 steadfast and generally well engaged. Several that covenanted to 
 seek the Lord when I left the place, had been brought into liberty. 
 I was considerably affected by the sudden death of a young man, 
 that in my former visit often attended my meetings, and was some- 
 times seriously exercised. Yet he delayed seeking the Lord. I 
 was informed that the day for his marriage had been appointed ; 
 but three or four days before the time, while in company with the 
 friend of his choice, and apparently in health, he suddenly put his 
 hand to his head, and cried out bitterly. Immediately he became 
 deranged, and died in a little time. The wedding festivities were 
 changed to the solemnities of a funeral. Thus are the hopes of 
 this world blasted, and thus the gay and thoughtless forget God-— 
 refuse to be wise, and are unprepared for eternity. In a little more 
 than a week, I held about ten meetings in Scriba and the adjacent 
 towns. Some of them were quite solemn and refreshing. 
 
 On Saturday, May 3, a two-days' meeting commenced in a bam 
 at Scriba. I spoke from 1 Thess. 5:19, and enjoyed great free- 
 dom. Many exhortations were given in quick succession. Nine 
 dissenters from the Calvinistic Baptist church in New Haven, re- 
 quested by letter, that they might be constituted a church in fellow- 
 ship with our denomination. As I could not, some other preachers 
 shortly after attended to their request. The Sabbath was pleas- 
 ant. I addressed six or seven hundred an hour and three quar- 
 ters, from Ezekiel 36:25, " Then will I sprinkle clean water upon 
 you" &c. After this, three related their experience, and were 
 baptized. Among these was a widow, whose husband, a captain 
 of a vessel on lake Erie, was lost about a year before with his 
 crew and passengers, amounting to the number of sixteen persons. 
 During the revival the winter previous, she was constant in her 
 attendance of my meetings, and at length came forward with the 
 anxious. Like Lydia, her heart was opened, and she opened her 
 house for meetings. It had pleased the Lord to comfort her soul 
 with his salvation, and this was a day of gladness. After baptism, 
 we collected on a pleasant green, near the bank of the stream, and 
 partook of the Lord's Supper. The heavens seemed to "drop 
 down new wine," and the songs of the converts rung with such 
 holy rapture, that I exclaimed in my heart, 
 
 This place is iike elysian fields 
 That lie o'er Jordan's flood. 
 
 In the evening, I spoke to a considerable assembly in the south 
 part of Scriba. The Lord gave me freedom, and filled my heart 
 16 
 
182 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 with gratitude for the good shown me this day. After this I at- 
 tended two meetings in Cato, one on a funeral occasion, and held 
 meetings in several towns on the Avay to Canandaigua. 
 
 Friday, May 10, a session of the Benton quarterly meeting open- 
 ed in this place. The brethren seemed to come " like clouds full 
 of rain," and many wept at seeing each other. The meetings of 
 worship were interesting. On the Sabbath, four sermons were 
 given, and several animating exhortations. It fell to my lot to bap- 
 tize one that was received the day previous. During the meeting, 
 Elder Josiah Fowler, from Conesus, made as humble and affecting 
 a confession as I ever heard. He had been a Free Mason, and had 
 taken several of the higher degrees. Once he was humble, and 
 God blessed his labors. He spoke of his enjoyment till the time 
 he took on him masonic obligations, which was more than six years 
 before. Alluding to that occurrence, and his attention afterwards 
 to Free Masonry, he exclaimed, " O my brethren, I have been in- 
 to Babylon !" His feelings overcame liim, and for some time he 
 wept aloud. Then he said, " O my God ! forgive me — O my 
 . brethren, will you forgive me ? — O sinners, can you forgive me, for 
 laying this stumbling block in your way ?" He said, that for five 
 years he never knew of the conversion of one soul through his in- 
 strumentality ; and at length the Lord took him in hand, while he 
 was in his field, and he thought he should die under the power of 
 God. He was humbled under the mighty hand of the Lord, saw 
 his wandering, and promised to renounce his allegiance to that in- 
 stitution. He said he believed the Lord had forgiven him all, and 
 that now he enjoyed peace like a river. Those who were acquaint- 
 ed with Elder Fowler knew him to be, naturally, a man of a proud 
 spirit, and his unexpected confession greatly affected the assem- 
 bly. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 183 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 My Second Journey to London District, Upper Canada, 
 
 Monday, May 12, 1828, I left Canandaigua for Upper Canada, 
 and in four days preached in Greece and Parma, thrice in Clark- 
 son, and once in Royalton. Sabbath, May 18, 1 attended two meet- 
 ings six miles east of the village of Lewiston, and was affectionate- 
 ly received by brother T , who related the following particu- 
 lars of his conversion. He said, that being a royal arch mason, he 
 became acquainted with some facts connected with the abduction 
 and murder of William Morgan, who was carried by his door, and 
 confined in the Magazine at Niagara, till the installation of the 
 royal arch chapter in this town. He was called to Canandaigua as 
 a witness, and resolved, agreeably to his masonic obligation, to 
 swear " he knew nothing of the affair J^ He said he felt conscien- 
 tious, and doubted not that he was doing right, till, unexpectedly, 
 the trial was adjourned, and he was dismissed. Then he hasted to 
 be alone ; the thought of his narrow escape rushed on his mind 
 like a flood. He said that in a moment it appeared to him, had it 
 not been for the mercy of God in thus saving him, that his ruin 
 would have been effected for time and for eternity. Then he ad- 
 ded, " I fell on my knees for the first time, and returned thanks to 
 Almighty God, and promised to renounce my allegiance to Free 
 Masonry, to the world, and to sin, and seek the salvation of my 
 soul." He returned home, confessed his resolutions to his wife, 
 and published his renunciation of Masonry. This awakened his 
 companion, and they sought the Lord till he spoke peace to their 
 souls. Several of their neighbors became concerned, a revival fol- 
 lowed, and was still progressing. This man and his wife appeared 
 to be humble converts, and much engaged in the service of the 
 Lord. 
 
 Monday, I crossed the Niagara, proceeded to St. Catharines, and 
 seeing many people in the centre of the village, I felt impressed to 
 speak to them of the things of eternity. I shrunk at the cross, and 
 passed through the village, — then feeling condemned, I returned 
 
 and met a stranger, that afterwards I understood to be Dr. C , 
 
 a merchant of that place. I asked him if I might preach in the 
 street. He replied, "Yes;" 'and went immediately himself, and 
 sent some others to notify a meeting to commence in ten minutes. 
 I placed my wagon in the centre of the village for a pulpit, and at 
 the time appointed, kneeled down and prayed. About one hun- 
 dred and fifty people gathered around. I addressed them from 
 
184 IffEMOIKS OF 
 
 Amos 4; 12, " Prepare to meet thy Godr They listened attentive- 
 ly, and some appeared affected. I appointed a meeting to. attend 
 on my return. Several solicited me to stay the night, but my en- 
 gagements obliged me to pursue my journey. The next day I 
 called at an inn, and preached to a few, from Ex. 3:14, '•^ I AM 
 hath sent me unto your In the afternoon I gave an exhortation at 
 Hamilton to a few people in the street. Two drunken men tried, 
 by insults and abuse, to embarrass me — yet the Lord blessed me 
 with some freedom. One of these was a negro, and the other was 
 an Irishman ; the latter laid violent hands on me. Still I thought 
 it good to "^0 out into the highways and hedges, and compeV* 
 perishing sinners to come to the gospel feast. A little before sun- 
 set, I arrived at Ancaster, wishing to warn the wicked of this vil- 
 lage ; and having but few minutes to stop, I gave notice for preach- 
 ing in seven minutes, on the green opposite the meeting house. 
 When the time had expired, two persons were present, and I ask- 
 ed them to give me a text. They gave me " Nothing." Soon af- 
 ter prayer, seventy or eighty people assembled, and taking my 
 text, I proceeded to show, first, that God created the world out of 
 nothing ; secondly, that man was placed under a law, in which 
 there was nothing unjust ; thirdly, that there is nothing to justify 
 the impenitent transgressor ; fourthly, that there will be nothing to 
 comfort him in death — nothing to save him in judgment, or to give 
 him hope in hell ; fifthly, that the righteous have by nature nothing 
 meritorious, nothing of their own of which they can boast, nothing 
 to fear in death ; and, that in the judgment day, they will have 
 nothing to cause them grief, and in heaven nothing to disturb their 
 peace — and finally, that in time, and in eternity, nothing will turn 
 to the advantage of the wicked, or to the disadvantage of the right- 
 eous. The Lord assisted me, O, blessed be his name. Many were 
 solemn and several wept. 
 
 Continuing my journey, and preaching as I stopped by the way, 
 I reached an appointment in Southwold, Friday, May 23, and bro» 
 Straight and the converts received me very affectionately. Many 
 that were mourning for their sins when I left the place, were now 
 happy in the Lord, and we had a joyful meeting. I was informed 
 that, from the time I left this place, brother Straight labored dili- 
 gently with the people, the work soon assumed an encouraging as- 
 pect, and the Lord gave him much success. Before he left for 
 New York, a first and second lett^ had been sent to Elder Jen- 
 kins of Bethany, requesting him to come and baptize the converts ; 
 but no answer having been received, the church in Dunwich sent 
 brother Straight to New York, with a request that he might be or- 
 dained. But previous to his return, brother Jenkins came to their 
 help, baptized forty, principally in Southwold, and organized a 
 
DAVID MARKS. 185 
 
 church. I was informed, that the first time thej attended to bap- 
 tism, twenty converts submitted to Christ in this ordinance. A 
 spectator held his watch, and observed that the administrator was 
 but eleven minutes baptizing the twenty. Some had asserted 
 that the apostolic manner of baptizing could not have been by im- 
 mersion^ — ^for if it had been been, the twelve apostles could not 
 have baptized the three thousand on the day of Pentecost. On 
 this account some one worked the following sum : If one baptize 
 twenty in eleven minutes, how long will it take twelve to baptize 
 three thousand ? He found the answer to be two hours, seventeen 
 minutes and a half. Thus, after all that has been said against im- 
 mersion, on the supposition that the twelve apostles could not bap- 
 tize three thousand in a day, it appears that it would have been to 
 them a short and pleasant work. 
 
 Saturday and Sabbath I preached in Dunwich, and saw some 
 engaged converts that were awakened in my former visit. Tues- 
 day, I met an assembly on Back street, and in the forenoon of the 
 day following, at the house of deacon B. His wife, having been 
 confined twelve years by sickness, had lost the powers of speech 
 and sight ; but still retaining the sense of hearing, she had request- 
 ed that I should hold this meeting. A number that were awaken- 
 ed came forward for prayer. In the afternoon I spoke to an as- 
 sembly at the house of Israel Morse, from Kom. 9:21, " Hath not 
 the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel 
 unto honor, and another unto dishonor ? In the evening, Mr. M. 
 and his wife said, that under God the discourse had removed from 
 their minds some serious objections to the doctrine of free salvation. 
 They appeared much concerned, and both prayed for mercy. The 
 man said in his distress that he feared his case was hopeless. They 
 confessed their sins, and seemed resolved to seek the Lord all the 
 days of their life. Next morning I visited and prayed with them ; 
 they appeared to be truly penitent. One of their daughters, a 
 young convert, who had been opposed by her parents, now rejoic- 
 ed greatly, believing they were near the kingdom of God. In a 
 few days they obtained a hope, and were baptized. Not many 
 months afterwards, this young woman became the wife of brother 
 Straight. After holding another meeting, I went to London, and 
 was very affectionately welcomed by brother Huckins and family. 
 Our interview was sweet. The day following, I met the dear 
 saints in London. After sermon, twenty-eight spoke of the loving 
 kindness of the Lord, and of the way in which he led their souls, 
 and one requested baptism. Having consulted several of the min- 
 isters in New York, also the brethren in Dunwich and Southwold, 
 and received their advice to examine brother Huckins for ordina- 
 tion, I now proposed to the church in London, to call a council for 
 16* 
 
186 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the purpose. To this they all agreed. Elder Jenkins had propos- 
 ed the same to brother Huckins, but from views of his unworthi- 
 ness, he positively refused his consent. But now, by the unani- 
 mous request of the church, he concluded, after considerable hesi- 
 tation, to submit to an examination. 
 
 Sabbath, June 1, 1828, I preached twice in London. In the 
 latter discourse, the Lord helped me to speak about two hours, and 
 the people were seriously impressed. Many testified of the grace 
 of God, and at the close I baptized an aged woman. As she came 
 up out of the water, she praised the Lord aloud. A young convert 
 then came forward, declared her faith in Christ, and was baptized. 
 Two solemnly promised to seek the Lord. Next day I visited sev- 
 eral families, and preached at the house of sister Pierce. Since 
 my former visit, her husband had gone the way of all the earth. 
 He was friendly to Christians, and thought he enjoyed some re- 
 ligion ; but it seemed to consist in strict morality. He justified 
 himself in the neglect of family prayer, and confessing Christ pub- 
 licly, and thought the noise and talk of engaged Christians quite 
 unnecessary. His wife, and most of his children, were humble fol- 
 lowers of Christ, " spoke often one to another," and, I believe, 
 " prayed to God always." He was of opinion that they made 
 more sound and show about religion, than was necessary ; and 
 they feared that he knew nothing of true " godliness." Still they 
 lived affectionately, tenderly regarded each other's feelings, and 
 were closely bound together by the family ties. In this situation, 
 sister P. told me that he approached the gate of death ; still he 
 changed not. He was apparently struck with its icy hand, and 
 his friends waited every hour in expectation of his decease. To 
 her it was an awful hour ! She loved her companion, yet she be- 
 lieved he was trusting in a false hope. But what could she do ? 
 Her last hours in his society were passing swiftly, and how could 
 she be, what some would call, so uncharitable, as to tell her hus- 
 band plainly, that she believed he was deceived, and that he 
 " must be born again," or " not see the kingdom of God." Still, 
 how could she bear that he should die in this state ? He remained 
 at the point of death some days. She wept — she prayed — she 
 poured out her soul to God. She obtained strength — told her hus- 
 band, that it appeared to her he could not die in his present state ; 
 that God had continued him these several days, that he might dis- 
 charge some duty he had neglected. Finally, she told him her 
 whole soul ; and instead of being grieved, as she had feared, he 
 confessed his lost condition, and cried to the Lord for mercy. To 
 the great joy of his family, he found pardon and the witness of the 
 Spirit, to which he confessed that till now he had ever been a 
 stranger. He exclaimed, " O that I could talk, and I would tell 
 
DAVID MARKS. 187 
 
 you that which you never heard before." He now condemned his 
 former faith, and exhorted his wife and children to perseverance in 
 family prayer, and in the practice of all the Christian duties he had 
 before called useless. In about twenty-four hours after this, he 
 bid the world adieu. Sister P. remarked that she never came to a 
 greater cross than she did in this trial, and had she shrunk from 
 duty, she never could have forgiven herself; but now she felt 
 great thankfulness to God, who strengthened her, and granted the 
 desire of her soul. 
 
 During the week following, I attended several interesting meet- 
 ings in Southwold and Dunwich. At the last, sixteen covenanted 
 to seek the Lord. A small number had experienced salvation in 
 my absence to London, and brother Straight had baptized three — 
 one of whom, like the jailer, went forward in the night. The con- 
 verts were much engaged, and I was much affected while reflect- 
 ing on the change religion had made in this towm. Eight or nine 
 months ago, the voice of prayer was scarcely heard for miles : now 
 a little army worshipped God " in spirit and in truth." 
 
 The dreary waste and barren land 
 
 Have smil'd with heav'nly light, 
 Sinners have seen the Savior's hand, 
 
 And own'd his mandates right. 
 
 Friday, brother Straight accompanied me to London, where we 
 held a two-days meeting, commencing on Saturday, the 7th of June. 
 At this time five deacons, from the three churches of our denomin- 
 ation in the province, brother Straight and myself, sat as a council 
 of examination. Brother Huckins gave an interesting relation of 
 his experience and call to the ministry, and stated his sentiments 
 with clearness. After a close examination, the council agreed that 
 he should be set apart to the w^ork unto which God had called him. 
 We returned our humble thanks to Almighty God for having 
 heard the groanings of our brethren in Canada. The other relig- 
 ious exercises on the first day were interesting. On the Sabbath, 
 it was delightful to see the happy Christians of London coming out 
 of the forest from almost every direction, to witness the first ordi- 
 nation among our brethren in this province. It fell to my lot to 
 preach a sermon on the occasion, from 1 Tim. 4:16, " Take heed 
 unto thyself^ and unto the doctrine ; continue in them: for in doing 
 this thou shalt save both thyself and them that hear thee" After 
 this brother Straight and myself proceeded to the ordaining prayer, 
 to the laying on of hands, to the giving of the charge, and the right 
 hand of fellowship. We then commended the candidate " to God, 
 and to the word of his grace," believing that God would strengthen 
 him, and make him a shepherd of the flock, and a blessing to the 
 church. 
 
188 MI5M0IRS OF 
 
 In the afternoon, brother Straight preached a weighty discourse. 
 Then an aged brother, formerly from Scotland, a man of ' a good 
 understanding,' and much piety, arose and stated that he was a 
 member of the Methodist society, with whom he felt the sweetest 
 union, that he did not design to forsake them, or any Christians ; 
 but that he felt it to be a duty he owed to God, to arise and be bap- 
 tized ; and he wished also to exchange the place of his member- 
 ship from one Christian church to another. His first conviction 
 that he had not been baptized, originated from reading in Dr. 
 Parkhurst's Greek and English Lexicon, the definition of baptizo, 
 the original word from which baptize Was adopted into our version 
 of the Scriptures ; and knowing that the learned doctor was a min- 
 ister of the church of England, and that he practised sprinkling for 
 baptism, he was not a little surprised on reading from his pen the 
 following definition of baptizo : " To dip, immerse, plunge J^ He 
 expected to find it, " To dip, pour, sprinkle." This awakened his 
 attention, and he examined the subject for himself. He said the 
 learned had deceived him ; and now he was convinced that the 
 commandment to be baptized was still obligatory on him. He was 
 received by the church on the recommendation of the Methodist 
 brethren that were present, and I had the privilege of baptizing 
 him. He had been a class leader and I think a professor about 
 forty years. Since his connection with the London church, I be- 
 lieve he has been an ornament to Zion and a help to the brethren. 
 The exercises closed, and v/e parted happy. 
 
 About this time I met with some trouble. My horse, that had 
 carried me nineteen thousand miles in a little more than five years, 
 received an injury from another beast and died. I had appoint- 
 ments extending between three and four hundred miles, commenc- 
 ing on Monday, and kne-w not how I should reach them. I told 
 Dea. P., to whose care I had committed the horse, that I thought 
 he should sustain the loss, as it happened through his want of care- 
 He made no objection, and purchased me another horse. About 
 six months afterwards, while reflecting on this occurrence, I be- 
 came of the opinion that I had erred in supposing that brother P. 
 ought to bear this loss, because he did not keep my horse for mon- 
 ey, but as a friend to show me a favor ; and I regretted having re- 
 ceived the compensation. So, on my next visit to Canada, I re- 
 funded to him all that I had received, with as much satisfaction as 
 I ever received what was owed me by another. He with several 
 brethren, however, gave me fifteen or twenty dollars. 
 
 Monday, June 9, I bade the brethren in London farewell, and 
 proceeded on my journey ; but my horse was old and travelled 
 very slowly, and my appointments were so arranged that I found it 
 difficult to meet them. Tuesday, I arrived at Oxford, next day at 
 
DAVID MARKS. 189 
 
 Brandford ; and the morning following, started before breakfast in 
 the rain. The road was so extremely bad that I was unable to 
 travel more than two miles an hour ; and being in an open car- 
 riage, there was scarcely a dry thread remaining in my clothes. 
 
 At one o'clock, P. M., I met an appointment at Ancaster, where 
 I had preached from the word " Nothing." The meeting house 
 was opened, and about one hundred people assembled. I spoke 
 to them from the word " Something," — and endeavored to 
 show, first, that there is something above all things ; secondly, that 
 there is something in man that cannot become extinct ; thirdly, 
 that there is naturally something in man that makes him unhappy ; 
 fourthly, that there is something in the gospel to reverse man's 
 state ; fifthly, that there is something that will disturb the finally 
 impenitent in death, judgment, and in eternity, and make them un- 
 happy ; sixthly, that true Christians possess something that the 
 world never knew ; and, finally, that in the great change, and in 
 eternity, they will have something that will yield eternal joy» 
 Many appeared serious, and I hoped that good was done. 
 
 At 5 o'clock, I spoke with considerable freedom in the street at 
 Hamilton. Some appeared to be affected, and the people gave me 
 two or three dollars. On Friday I met about one thousand peo- 
 ple on the square at St. Catharines, and spoke to them an hour 
 and a half. Near the close, many of the assembly were in 
 tears, and I felt a fervent desire that the Lord would visit this peo- 
 ple. After a part of the assembly had gone away. Dr. C— — , 
 though not a professor, called for a collection, and presented me 
 ten dollars. He invited me to his house ; said that my former 
 discourse in this place made deep impressions on his mind, and al- 
 most persuaded him to be a Christian. Alas ! how many are onl^ 
 almost persuaded, and never submit themselves entirely to God ; 
 but die in their sins and sink to eternal ruin ! On Saturday I left 
 the province, spent the Sabbath in Royalton, and enjoyed usual 
 freedom. From Royalton, I went to Canandaigua, and preached 
 in nearly half the towns through which I passed. 
 
 After this, a line of appointments called me to go immediately to 
 the west. I preached from one to three sermons a day, for a week, 
 when I arrived at Boston, Erie county. I held a few meetings in 
 this vicinity and in Eden, then visited and preached in various 
 towms at the east. Many of these seasons were solemn, and I 
 could but hope that some good fruit would be seen in eternity. 
 About this time I fulfilled all my appointments that had been pre- 
 viously given out ; but it had been done with much difficulty, as 
 my horse would at no time travel more than three miles an hour. 
 I was under the necessity of riding, generally twenty or thirty, and 
 sometimes forty miles a day ; and in order to reach my appoint- 
 
190 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 mentR, occasionally rode half the night. As I had not money to 
 purchase another horse, all my efforts during this time to procure ^ 
 one on any other conditions, were ineffectual. I think that I never 
 passed through more fatigue than during the labors of this month. 
 But notwithstanding my embarrassments, I was enabled to travel 
 between four and five hundred miles, and attend thirty-five meet- 
 ings. About the last of the month, I contracted a debt to pur- 
 chase a good horse : thus one burden was removed, for which I felt 
 to thank the Lord. 
 
 During the first part of July, I preached daily among the church- 
 es in the Ontario and Benton quarterly meetings, and the power 
 of God was often in our midst. In the latter part of the month, 
 I preached to many congregations within the limits of the Owego 
 quarterly meeting, and enjoyed some heavenly seasons. In Au- 
 gust I attended a session of the Benton quarterly meeting at Mid- 
 dlesex, and preached with nearly all the churches within fifty miles 
 of Canandaigua. In some places, revivals were spreading, and 
 the glory of God was shining among the people. 
 
 It has been already stated, that unnumbered circumstances com- 
 pelled me to believe, that Masonry approved of the abduction of 
 Morgan, &c. ; and that, consequently, the connection of Christian 
 people with the institution, became a trial to my mind. I think, 
 that I cannot do justice to truth, to other s, and to myself, without 
 briefly relating the result of this painful conviction. 
 
 Soon after the appearance of Morgan's ' Illustrations of Mason- 
 ry,* I read — and thought within myself, ' Can this be Free Mason- 
 ry, which has been called the " Handmaid of Religion ?" Can it 
 he, that so many of the popular' class, and even ministers of the 
 gospel, have passed through these ceremonies — been divested of 
 their wearing apparel — blindfolded — have entered a Lodge " in the 
 NAME OF THE Lord" — and been led about a lodge^oom, with a 
 rope around their neck — and then sworn they would not reveal 
 these things, " under no less penalty,'' than having their " throat 
 cut across,'' their " tongue torn out by the roots," and their " body 
 buried in the rough sands of the sea V ' If I had had no other 
 guide in judging of the truth or falsity of the disclosures, I should 
 have concluded from the lowness and wickedness of the ceremonies, 
 obligations, &c., that they were an imposition on the public. But 
 the abduction of Morgan, and a thousand circumstances connected 
 with it, together with the general silence of the fraternity on the 
 subject, and their evasive answers to inquiries, forbid this conclu- 
 sion. 
 
 It appeared that Capt. Morgan had not been kidnapped by a 
 few individuals of low standing, but as has since been said by the 
 U. S. Anti-Masonic Convention — " Previously to his seizure, nu- 
 
DAVID MABK3. 191 
 
 merous meetings of Free Masons, in lodges and otherwise, were 
 held for the purpose of contriving and adopting the most certain 
 means of carrying into effect, their unlawful objects upon him. 
 These meetings were attended, and the designs of them approved 
 by several hundred of the most respectable and intelligent of the 
 Masonic brethren. They included legislators, judges, sheriffs, 
 clergymen, generals, physicians, and lawyers. And they proceed- 
 ed in discharge of, what they deemed, their Masonic duties." It 
 also appeared by a great abundance of testimony, that Morgan was 
 lodged in the jail at Canandaigua, the town of my residence, that 
 he was there seized in the night, and though he cried murder, was 
 thrust into a coach prepared for the occasion, and carried by differ- 
 ent companies, coaches, and horses, more than one hundred miles 
 through a populous country, and confined in a fortress belonging 
 to the U. States, then in charge of Free Masons, who had prepar- 
 ed it for his reception ; that he was confined there several days, 
 and then probably murdered. Two or three of the leading men in 
 this aggravating and appalling offence, were citizens of Canandai- 
 gua, and men with whom I was acquainted. As before stated, I 
 supposed that those engaged in the crime would be expelled from the 
 lodges ; but instead of this, if I was correctly informed, (and I 
 never heard it contradicted,) those who had been the most active 
 in this outrage, were held in fellowship in the lodges without ad- 
 monition ; and though they had pleaded guilty to their indictments, 
 apparently to prevent the extent of the conspiracy from being dis- 
 covered ; — ^yet after they were condemned — during their imprison- 
 ment, to which they had been sentenced for their crime, they liv- 
 ed like gentlemen, and almost constantly shared the company of 
 their brother Masons, who sat with them in the prison to " pass 
 away the time." Thus the Masons generally held these criminals as 
 true and worthy Masons, and every effort was used to enable them 
 to escape justice and the penalties of the law ; — when, on the other 
 hand, those who renounced their obligations, and confessed their 
 crimes wdthout reserve were subjected to a persecution that seem- 
 ed to be without end. 
 
 In Morgan's Illustrations it appeared that the obligation of the 
 Master Mason's degree, contains the following clauses. " Further- 
 more, do I promise and swear that I will support the constitution 
 
 of the grand lodge of the state of , under which this lodge is 
 
 held, and conform to all the by-laws, rules, and regulations of this 
 or any other lodge of which I may at any time hereafter become a 
 member. Furthermore, do I promise and swear that I will obey 
 all regular signs, summons or tokens, given, handed, sent or thrown, 
 to me from the hand of a brother Master Mason, or from the body 
 of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of such, provided it be 
 
19^ laEatoiRS oip 
 
 within the length of my cable-tow. Furthermore, do I promise 
 and swear that a Master Mason's secrets, given to me in charge as 
 such, and I knowing them to be such, shall remain as se- 
 cure and inviolable in my breast as in his own, when communica- 
 ted to me, murder and treason excepted ; and they left to my own 
 election. Furthermore, do I promise and swear that if any part 
 of this my solemn oath or obligation be omitted at this time, 
 that I will hold myself amenable thereto, whenever informed. To 
 all which I do most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, 
 with a fixed and steady purpose of mind in me to keep and per- 
 form the same, binding myself under no less penalty, than to have 
 my body severed in two in the midst, and divided to the north and 
 south, my bowels burnt to ashes in the centre and the ashes scat- 
 tered before the four winds of heaven, that there might not the 
 least track or trace of remembrance remain among men or Masons 
 of so vile and perjured a wretch as I should be, were I ever to 
 prove willfully guilty of violating any part of this my solemn oath 
 or obligation of a Master Mason. So help me God, and keep me 
 steadfast in the due performance of the same." 
 
 On the clauses quoted, the following queries were suggested. 
 * Has a man a right to swear to keep things secret, the nature of 
 which he does not know ? Since man's life is not his own, has he 
 a right, in any case, to give it as a pledge ? What is the design 
 of the masonic penalties, unless they are to be executed f Can an 
 institution exist, with obligations and penalties, and yet have no 
 means whereby the penalties may be executed, in case the obliga- 
 tions are broken ? If the penalties were not to be executed, in 
 case of a violation of Masonic obligations, how could the fraterni- 
 ty have kept their secrets ? Has a man a right to swear to " sup- 
 port" a " constitution," which he has never seen nor heard? — To 
 *' conform" to " by-laws, rules and regulations" which he does not 
 know ? Has a Christian a right to swear to " obey all regular signs, 
 summons or tokens, given, handed, sent or thrown!^ from a " Master 
 Ma^on, or from the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge 
 of such ?" How does he know, that the " constitution," " by-laws, 
 rules, regulations, signs, summons, or tokens," will not require him 
 to assist in kidnapping or murdering some one, that has thought 
 the duty he owed to his God or to his country, obliged him to dis- 
 close the secrets of Masonry ? How does a Master Mason know 
 that among the secrets given him " in charge as such," there will 
 not be theft, arson, and many other crimes — and that he will not be 
 called to testify to these things in a court of justice, and thus be 
 under the necessity of violating either his masonic or his judicial 
 oath? When a man takes the obligation of a Master's degree, 
 has he a right to swear, that " if any part" of the " obligation be 
 
DAVID MARKS. 193 
 
 omitted at this time," he will hold himself " amenable thereto" — 
 since it is not said, if it he forgotten ; but "ijT it he omitted," and 
 he knows not what it is that is omitted, or why it is omitted ?' 
 
 As a minister of Christ, and a watchman in Zion, I thought it 
 my duty to divest myself of all prejudices, and, uninfluenced by 
 attachment to my friends who were Masons, candidly search after 
 the truth in answer to these queries. I visited many Christian 
 people who had renounced Masonry, and they affirmed that Mor- 
 gan's disclosures were true. I conversed with many who still be- 
 longed to the order, and none would deny their truth in general, 
 except by vague remarks or apparent cavils. I entreated them, 
 if these things were not so, to take the statements by course and 
 say they were not true. Many would only reply, that they did 
 not wish to say any thing on the subject. 
 
 A convention of about ninety seceding Masons, that declared in- 
 dependence from the Masonic institution, published several of the 
 higher degrees, which contained the following clauses. In the royal 
 arch degree : " Furthermore, do I promise and swear, that I will 
 aid and assist a companion royal arch Mason, when engaged in any 
 difficulty ; and espouse his cause, so far as to extricate him from 
 the same, if in my power, whether he be right or ivrong.' — Further- 
 more, do I promise and swear, that a companion royal arch ma- 
 son's secrets given me in charge as such, and I knowing them to 
 be such, shall remain as secure and inviolable in my breast as in 
 his own, murder and treason not excepted" In the degree called 
 the " Holy and Thrice Illustrious Order of the Cross :" " You fur- 
 ther swear, that, should you know another to violate any essential 
 point of this obligation, you will use your most decided endeavors, 
 by the blessing of God, to bring such person to the strictest and 
 most condign punishment, agreeably to the rules and usages of our 
 ancient fraternity ; and this by pointing him out to the world as an 
 unworthy vagabond ; by opposing his interest, by deranging his 
 business, by transferring his character after him wherever he may 
 go, and by exposing him to the contempt of the whole fraternity 
 and the world, but of our illustrious order more especially, during 
 his whole natural life. — To all, and every part thereof, we then 
 bind you, and by ancient usage you bind yourself, under the no 
 less infamous penalty than dying the death of a traitor, by having 
 a spear, or some other sharp instrument, like as our divine Mas- 
 ter, thrust in your left side, bearing testimony, even in death, of the 
 power and justice of the mark of the holy cross." 
 
 From these testimonies, together with that of hundreds who had 
 
 seceded, and from the testimony of Masons who had not seceded, 
 
 I was unable to form any other conclusion than that the secrets of 
 
 the order had been revealed. And in answer to the preceding 
 
 17 
 
194 MEMOIBS OF 
 
 queries, I was constrained to conclude that it was inconsistent for a 
 Christian to be connected, in any manner whatever, with the insti- 
 tution or fraternity of Free Masons. Also, that I could not dis- 
 charge the duties of a " watchman'^ in Zion, and keep my garments 
 clear from the blood of souls, without preaching publicly against 
 Free Masonry, as well as against other evils. 
 
 On Friday, August 29, 1828, I attended the Holland Purchase 
 yearly meeting, at Flint creek in Middlesex. After several re- 
 solves were passed on different subjects. Elder Brown and two oth- 
 ers were appointed to visit some churches lately raised up in Wayne, 
 and other towns, in Ashtabula county, Ohio. Brother Straight, 
 myself, and some others, were appointed to visit the annual confer- 
 ence of the Free Communion Baptists, in Upper Canada. After 
 this, reports were presented from the four quarterly meetings, 
 Bethany, Erie, Benton, and Ontario. Refreshing tidings of revi- 
 vals and additions in different places, gladdened our hearts and 
 strengthened our hands. It appeared by the reports, that at this 
 time there were in the yearly meeting forty-nine churches, one 
 thousand six hundred and fifty members, and thirty ordained minis- 
 ters. 
 
 Saturday morning, public worship commenced in a grove, previ- 
 ously prepared for the occasion. Three sermons were preached, 
 after which brother James Bignall of Barrington, N. Y. was or- 
 dained to the work of the ministry. On the Sabbath, the assem- 
 bly was large, and worship commenced at nine o'clock, A. M. Af- 
 ter two discourses, brother Straight preached from Eph. 3:8, 9 : 
 " Unto me who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace 
 given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable 
 nches of Christ," &c. The people observing that the speaker was 
 a youth, and knowing it had been but a little time since he was con- 
 verted, listened to his address with more than usual attention and 
 solemnity. Joy and gladness, weeping and mourning, pervaded 
 the assembly. At the close, brother Norton, a very aged man, re- 
 cently from Vermont, arose on the stand, and sung a beautiful 
 parting hymn, that was composed by one of his brethren in the east 
 on his separating from them. His person was tall, erect, and 
 of comely form. His eyes were sunken, and his face wrinkled by 
 age ; his locks were white like wool, and his singing seemed to 
 have an unusual charm. When he commenced, the assembly were 
 just beginning to disperse ; all stopped, and listened with perfect 
 silence, except, occasionally, several burst forth into weeping. 
 
 In the meeting of business on Friday, the subject of Free Ma- 
 sonry was again introduced. It appeared, that a number of our 
 own brethren and some of our preachers had renounced their ma- 
 sonic obligations ; and that the connection of some others with the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 195 
 
 institution, had become a sore trial to the churches. A move was 
 made, that " we consider Masonry unnecessary, anti-scriptural, and 
 wicked ; and that for a Christian to be a Mason is a crime worthy 
 of admonition." After much discussion, it passed by a large ma- 
 jority. Only four remained neuter ; but two voted against it, and 
 these were brethren that thought their masonic obligations binding. 
 But it had always been the practice of the yearly meeting, if pos- 
 sible, to act unanimously : therefore they agreed to refer the sub- 
 ject to the ministers' conference on Monday, for a reconsideration. 
 During the yearly meeting, this was a subject of much fervent 
 prayer and many tears. In the conference the resolve was chang- 
 ed to the following form : " We advise the quarterly meetings and 
 churches in our connexion, not to hold fellowship with active Free 
 Masons ; but that they admonish such of their brethren as belong 
 to the fraternity, to renounce, or withdraw their standing in the 
 lodges, and in all places to refrain from advocating the system." 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 My Fourth Journey to New England. 
 
 Having been appointed by the yearly meeting a messenger to 
 the second session of the General Conference of the Free-will Bap- 
 tist Connexion, to be held in New Hampshire, I left my good 
 home in Canandaigua, on Monday, Sept. 8, 1828 ; and the next 
 day, at Waterloo, was joined by brother Wm. Van Tuyl, a young 
 preacher who had agreed to accompany me on this journey. I had 
 an interview at this place with my brother Ives, who was still se- 
 rious. * O Lord, may I, shall I, ever see Ives a Christian ? O, 
 grant that I may, for thy mercy's sake.' I had an appointment in 
 the evening at Junius ; but, on our arrival, we found my parents 
 sick, and a daughter of my step-mother apparently at the point of 
 death, and unprepared for the change. A few months before, she 
 was awakened, and covenanted to seek the Lord ; but through the 
 influence of her associates she was persuaded to attend a ball, and 
 her conviction left her. For this she now deeply sighed. The 
 symptoms of death seemed floating upon her eyes ; death's visage 
 wa« upon her features : she could only tell us in a faint whisper, 
 that she had no hope, while to appearance the next hour would 
 conduct her to eternal scenes. It was so sickly in the vicinity, 
 that there was scarcely enough in health to take care of the sick. 
 
/^ MEMOIRS OP 
 
 ^ these circumstances the parental home was gloomy. On the 
 morning following, previous appointments called us to pursue our 
 journey. We had a sorrowful parting, little expecting that we 
 should all meet again in this world. 
 
 Proceeding on our way, we attended meetings in Montezuma^ 
 Mentz, and SpafFord. At the latter meeting, a young woman re- 
 lated an interesting experience and desired to be baptized. I re- 
 membered that six months before, I tried for several hours to per- 
 suade her to turn to God, and that she then entered into a cove- 
 nant to kneel and pray thrice a day for a year. She said she had 
 often been sorry she made the engagement, for she became discour- 
 aged, thought her prayers would be useless, and should have 
 given the struggle over, had it not been for the binding influence of 
 this covenant. She dared not break it. " So," said she, " I con- 
 tinued seeking, and about three weeks ago the Lord converted my 
 soul — now I thank Grod that he put it into my heart to make this 
 covenant ; for, if I had not made it, probably I should not have 
 sought the Lord, but have died in my sins, and have been lost for- 
 ever !" She appeared to be strong in the Lord and very happy. 
 After baptism, we went to the south part of the town and held a 
 meeting. 
 
 On Saturday we went to Fabius, where I had an appointment ; 
 but understanding that the Spafford quarterly meeting was in ses- 
 sion at New Berlin, fifty miles distant ; and that the preachers who 
 had been expected to attend, were sick, or othermse detained, I 
 thought it my duty to go to the quarterly meeting. Leaving 
 brother Van Tuyl to attend my appointment, I started about four 
 o'clock, P. M, and reached New Berlin by ten or eleven o'clock 
 next morning. The people were assembled in a grove, and as I en- 
 tered, brother Adon Aldrich, the only preacher that was present, and 
 some others, thanked the Lord aloud. This was the third day of 
 the meeting, and I understood they had had no preaching, except 
 from the assembly of saints and young converts. I took my seat 
 to hear, and soon found that my lot had fallen in a heavenly place, 
 and in a happy company. It seemed as though a fresh breeze 
 from glory blowed gently upon us. The time was all occupied ei- 
 ther in singing or speaking, and many that spoke had excellent 
 gifts in exhortation. Thus the meeting continued till about twelve 
 o'clock, when a little girl, who sat on her mother's lap, arose and 
 sung a beautiful verse, and then, with modest confidence, address- 
 ed the wicked with pathos and power. Said she, " You may slight 
 the Savior now, but the time is soon coming when you will be sor- 
 ry — when you pass through the dark valley and shadow of death, 
 you will need this religion which you now despise." Her exhorta- 
 tion was continued ten or fifteen minutes, and had much effect on 
 
DAVID MARKS. 197 
 
 the assembly. I understood that she was but ten years old, and 
 had been a professor of religion two years. She had been baptiz- 
 ed and received into the church ; and was a steady traveller, often 
 making mention of the name of the Lord. 
 
 During the intermission, I enjoyed a sweet interview with the 
 brethren and learned from them, that since the last spring, a bless- 
 ed revival had been witnessed on the hills of New Berlin, and Nor- 
 wich, an adjacent town. In this work many had been translated 
 into the kingdom of God's dear Son. Brother Aldrich had bap- 
 tized forty, and gathered a church of about fifty members, the only 
 one of our denomination within fifty miles ; and a large field ap- 
 peared to be opening for gospel labors. In the afternoon, I spoke 
 about two hours with much freedom. Many tears were shed, and 
 great solemnity rested on the people. In the evening, I preached 
 near the Unadilla river. The house was crowded, and at the in- 
 troduction, I counted fifty persons that stood up and sung, nearly 
 all of whom appeared to " sing with the spirit, and with the under- 
 standing also." On the day following I attended two meetings. 
 The Lord met with us and made them impressive to many. 
 
 From Norwich, I went to Windsor, to attend the Susquehanna 
 yearly meeting, and there 'met brother Van Xuyl. On Friday, 
 Sept. 19, 1828, the second session of this yearly meeting com- 
 menced, and continued with much interest until Sabbath evening. 
 Several good discourses were given by different preachers, and 
 many spiritual exhortations contributed to the interest and profit 
 of the meeting. It fell to my lot to speak two or three times : it 
 pleased the Lord to give me freedom, and bless his word to the 
 awakening of some, who afterwards professed to find peace in be- 
 lieving. Sabbath evening, brother B. A. Russel was ordained to 
 the work of the ministry. 
 
 The Susquehanna yearly meeting was organized a year before 
 this time at Dryden, New York. It now consisted of three quar- 
 terly meetings, Owego, Gibson and Spafford. The Owego quar- 
 terly meeting M^as gathered about the year 1818, through the in- 
 strumentality of brethren from Vermont. Spafford quarterly 
 meeting was organized in 1827. About the same year, the Gib- 
 son quarterly meeting was formed principally from several church- 
 es that had formerly constituted a yearly meeting of Free Com- 
 munion Baptists. The numbers in the yearly meeting were not 
 exactly ascertained. The probable estimate was as follows, eigh- 
 teen churches, twelve ordained ministers and five hundred and fif- 
 -ty-five members. 
 
 Monday, after a few minutes notice, I preached standing under 
 a tree, to about one hundred people in Bainbridge. Some heard with 
 tenderness. We proceeded to New Berlin, and next day met an 
 17* 
 
198 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 assembly in the grove where the quailerly meeting was held. I 
 preached on repentance, faith, and baptism, and enjoyed some free- 
 dom. 
 
 On Wednesday we continued our journey eastward, and in eight 
 days arrived at Randolph, Vt., a distance of two hundred and six- 
 teen miles. On our way we held five meetings : the first was in 
 Johnstown, N. York, where we stopped to feed our horses. I pass- 
 ed into the street, and observing the people running to and fro, 
 while all seemed thoughtless of God and eternity, I felt a cry in 
 my soul, and concluded to embrace the opportunity, for rebuking, 
 exhorting, &c., out of season" 2 Tim. 4;2 : and obtaining liberty 
 of the owner, I stood on a platform, before a store in the centre of 
 the village, and began to preach from Rev. 6:17 : " For the great 
 day of his wrath is come ; and who shall be able to stand ?" 
 About one hundred and fifty or two hundred people listened to 
 the word, notwithstanding it rained ; and when I was speaking on 
 the last proposition of the text, a certain judge interrupted me, 
 saying, " Friend, you must stop ; — this is very improper — you are 
 disturbing the people. There are houses enough to preach in." I re- 
 plied, that I had no intention of disturbing the people ; that on en- 
 tering their village, I heard the voice of profane swearing, and no 
 one forbid it ; and, that I supposed, if I preached Christ to them 
 in the " highway" no one would attempt to prevent me. He on- 
 ly replied, that it was improper, and then departed. Immediately 
 a lawyer seized me, and by a sudden pull, brought me nearly to the 
 ground, saying, " Come and go with me to jail" I asked him why 
 he would imprison me. He replied, " For disturhi7ig the peace of 
 the village" and demanded a reason for my conduct. I told him 
 that I was one of those servants whom the Lord had sent out into 
 the " highways and hedges," &c., and asked him if it was disturb- 
 ing their peace to try to persuade the wicked from the way to hell. 
 He halted, and looking me sternly in the face, commanded me to 
 stop, saying, " I will hear no such talk." The people gathered 
 around in a throng, and some cried, " He is crazy — flog him." 
 Others said, " He did not talk like a crazy man ; but the more 
 part remained silent. While the lawyer was holding me, I discov- 
 ered from his breath, that he used " strong drink." He then said, 
 if I would leave the place in silence, he would let me go. I told 
 him, that because my time to stay had now expired, I intended, if 
 dismissed, to leave immediately. As he let me go, I said, " Your 
 blood be upon your oicn head." He turned suddenly toward me, 
 as though he thought I had threatened his life, and demanded what 
 I meant by this saying. One that stood by, told him that it was a 
 saying of Scripture, and that my meaning was, that I was clear 
 from his guilt, and that he would bear it alone. He said, " So be 
 
DAVID MARKS. 199 
 
 ^V," and left me. Many followed me to my carriage, invited me 
 to their dwellings, and earnestly entreated me to remain till even"- 
 ing, and preach in the court house, or in one of their meeting 
 houses. But duty called us to haste on our way. As we left the 
 town, the Lord poured his Spirit upon me, and caused me greatly 
 to rejoice. The other meetings were in Broad Albin, AVilton, and 
 Kingsbury. 
 
 Friday, Oct. 3, 1828, we attended the Vermont yearly meeting 
 conference in Randolph. The principal subject discussed, was 
 Free Masonry. Several brethren in this state had seceded from 
 the institution, testified that its works are evil, and that the disclos- 
 ures made by Capt. William Morgan, and others, were true. It 
 appeared that these circumstances had induced many brethren to 
 examine the nature and tendency of the oaths and ceremonies of 
 the order. The result was, that the allegiance of brethren to the 
 institution became a trial. The subject appeared to have been first 
 introduced into the church in this town, and afterwards referred to 
 the yearly meeting. When the discussion began, I had not a thought 
 of taking any active part. I was young — a stranger to nearly all, 
 and I said, " Days should speak, and multitude of years should 
 teach wisdom." Again, all my brethren were dear to me, and I 
 thought I would not chill the feelings of any by engaging in a 
 point of dispute. But, unexpectedly, I felt an impression from 
 the Spirit of the Lord to open my mouth, and I dared not disobey. 
 Like Ephraim, I " spoke trembling," and remarked, that secrecy 
 is a sign of iniquity ; that men hoast of their good deeds, and often 
 publish them as by the sound of a trumpet ; but, their evil deeds, 
 of which they are ashamed, they conceal ; therefore said our Sa- 
 vior, " Men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds are 
 evil" After this, I quoted several passages of Scripture, to show 
 that the works of Christ were wrouglit openly, that " in secret 
 he " said nothing," &c. I spoke about an hour with much free- 
 dom, and presented many testimonies, showing what are the oaths 
 and ceremonies of the institution. Little more was advanced in 
 favor of Masonry. 
 
 A preacher, who said in the commencement of the discussion, 
 that he was included among its defendants, observed that it would 
 seem to be useless to say anything in defence of Masonry, yet he 
 must dissent from my remarks. This was about all he said, except, 
 near the close, he remarked, that he was a royal arch Mason, and 
 that the clause, " right or wrong" contained in what was called 
 Masonry, were words that had not escaped his lips, that before God, 
 he would say to this yearly meeting he had never taken such an 
 obligation. Upon this Capt. D , a brother, arose, and said that 
 
200 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 he was a royal arch mason, and felt tried ; " For," said he, " I 
 once asked this brother," alluding to the one that had just spoken, 
 " how he got along with this part of the obligation, " right or* 
 wrong f He replied, that he refused to take it, and being urged 
 for half an hour, he at last told the one that administered the oath, 
 that he would not take it, if they drew him in quarters, and that 
 upon this, the phraseology was so changed that he took the obliga- 
 tion. Brother D. now wept profusely, and renounced his allegi- 
 ance to the institution. To this explanation, the preacher that first 
 spoke, made no reply ; but appeared to be much attached to Ma- 
 sonry, and after the meeting, told me, that he could go no further 
 with me. I asked him to go alone with me and pray ; he refused, 
 saying, he had gone with me to the end of his faith. It is but just, 
 however, to add, that this preacher renounced his masonic obliga- 
 tions in less than one year. After many weighty and spiritual 
 testimonies, the conference passed a resolve, that " Free Masonry 
 is the unfruitful works of darkness," entreating all their brethren 
 who had been connected with it, to come out from it and have no 
 fellowship with it. 
 
 I had never taken part in any discussion with more reluctance 
 than I did on this occasion. My course was entirely contrary to 
 my natural inclination, to my earthly interest, and to my expecta- 
 tion. I felt the tenderest regard for my brethren that were Ma- 
 sons ; and while I felt pressed by the Spirt of the Lord to testify 
 against the system, I wept for them day and night. But what are 
 the feelings of my brethren, what are my own feelings, when they 
 come in competition with the requirements of Godl Some seem- 
 ed to be offended, and the preacher named before, asked me if I 
 had not been employed to come from N. York on purpose to oppose 
 Masonry. But though by this course my influence with many 
 might be diminished, I enjoyed what I prized above the friendship 
 of a world — peace of conscience — peace with God. 
 
 On Saturday, worship continued through the day with much 
 spirituality. On the Sabbath, the house was crowded and hun- 
 dreds stood without. Elder Morse gave a short, but good discourse ; 
 after which, I addressed the people about two hours. In the after- 
 noon. Elder Harvey preached an interesting sermon. The meet- 
 ing was solemn, and at times much tenderness was observed in the 
 assembly. After it closed, as I passed out of the house. Major F. 
 gave me a dollar ; tears started in his eyes, and he said, "Pray 
 for me." I understood that he had been a Universalist, also that 
 he was the first that publicly renounced Masonry in Vermont. 
 
 On Monday I spoke to a considerable assembly in Tunbridge ; 
 some wept, and some were happy. In the evening I addressed a 
 
DAVID MARKS. 201 
 
 crowded congregation in Strafford. Next morning we proceeded 
 on our journey, and in a little more than two days arrived at Sand- 
 wich in New Hampshire. 
 
 On Thursday, Oct. 9, 1828, the General Conference opene din 
 this town at 9 o'clock, A. M. Messengers were present from 
 Maine eastern, and Maine western yearly meetings, — from the 
 yearly meetings in New Hampshire, Vermont, Holland Purchase, 
 and Ohio, and from the R. I. quarterly meeting ; and during its sit- 
 ting, forty or fifty ministers attended. Elder Nathaniel King, of Yt. 
 was appointed moderator, and Elder John Buzzell, of Maine, as- 
 sistant moderator. At the previous session in 1827, brother Ho- 
 sea Quinby had been chosen standing clerk. Among the subjects 
 discussed, on which resolves were passed in Conference was the 
 following : — 
 
 Speculative Free Masonry. — The Vermont yearly meeting con- 
 ference presented their resolves against Masonry, asking liberty to 
 publish them in the Morning Star, a religious paper designed for 
 the benefit of the Free-will Baptist denomination. An indefinite 
 'postponement was moved. I had resolved that I would be silent 
 on the subject. Brethren from Vermont beckoned to me more 
 than once, but I persisted in my resolution till I felt that the Lord 
 required me to open my mouth. Then I spoke against the motion, 
 and argued, from the disclosures that had been made of the se- 
 crets of Masonry' — from the nature and tendency of the institution, 
 that the resolves of the Vermont yearly meeting were righteous, 
 and ought to be known to the denomination. Soon after I com- 
 menced speaking, some brother asked the moderator if I was not 
 " out of order r He answered in the negative, and I continued my 
 address about an hour with much freedom. I felt the Spirit of the 
 Lord assisting me, and there was much weeping in the Conference. 
 When I spoke — ^for anything I knew to the contrary, — all the fa- 
 thers in the connexion that were present might be Masons. But 
 my joy was great, and I thanked God, on finding that Elders Buz- 
 zell and King, and the aged men that had borne the burden in the 
 heat of the day, and had led this connexion as a flock, had ever 
 stood opposed to the institution. A large majority voted against 
 the motion, and the conference agreed to give the Vermont yearly 
 meeting conference liberty to publish their resolves in the Star.* 
 
 After an adjournment, Elder Buzzell asked me how I dared, 
 since I was but a young man, to speak as I had against Masonry 
 before the aged, &c. I replied, in the language of David, " Is 
 
 * Through some means, or some misunderstanding, these particulars concerning Ma- 
 sonry never found place in the minutes of the General Conference. It is, however, but 
 just to add, that the standing clerk is uot a mason. He is a man whom I highly es- 
 teem. 
 
202 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 there not a cause ?** He said with a smile, " Yes — is there 7iot a 
 cause ?" 
 
 The business of the Conference in general, was conducted with 
 much unanimity of sentiment and feeling ; and all appeared to be 
 of the opinion, that the continuance of a General Conference was 
 needful for the prosperity of the denomination. Still, some fear- 
 ed that its resolves might yet be so construed as to form a disci- 
 pline, and thus supplant one of the first principles of the denomi- 
 nation, viz. " To hold the New Testament as the only written law 
 or inile for the government of the church." I understood, howev- 
 er, that all the members of the Conference considered the object 
 of this convention to be, not to make laws for the church, but to 
 search for an understanding of the ferfect law that Christ has made, 
 and hold it up for the benefit of all. For " in the multitude of 
 counsellors there is safety.*^ 
 
 The meeting of business continued three days ; and during the 
 time, meetings of worship were held on every evening, at one, two, 
 or three places, and once or twice in the afternoon. On one eve- 
 ning I spoke at the Ridge meeting-house, from James 4:10 : 
 " Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord" On the Sabbath, 
 meetings were held at two meeting houses in Sandwich. In the 
 forenoon, a funeral discourse was preached on the death of Elder 
 Thomas Jackson, at one place, by Elder J. White, and at the other 
 by Elder A. Caverno. A solemn season was enjoyed at the old 
 meeting house ; and at the Ridge, I understood that it was a time 
 of much weeping. In the afternoon I spoke at the old meeting 
 house ; and in the evening, worship was attended in various parts 
 of the town, and some appearances of a revival rejoiced our 
 hearts. 
 
 On Monday I went to the house of sister Quinby, a widow in 
 Israel. I was in this family four years before, and now under- 
 stood, that at the first meeting which I then held, while I was 
 speaking of the sufferings of Christ, it pleased the Lord to bless 
 the word to the awakening of Hosea, a son of sister Quinby. In 
 about two months he obtained peace, soon became a preacher 
 and was now clerk of the General Conference.* * O Lord, help 
 him and me to be humble as the apostolic Christians, and meek as 
 the holy Jesus.' 
 
 The ensuing week was occupied in preaching in Parsonsfield, 
 Newfield, Limerick, and attending the Parsonsfield quarterly meet- 
 ing in Limington, Me. In the latter place, several had been re- 
 cently converted, and the church had at this time, between two and 
 three hundred members. 
 
 * Mr. Quinby is now principal of Smithville Seminary, in R. Island. [Ed. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 203 
 
 Having sent appointments to Wcare quarterly meeting, and al- 
 so to the north part of Vermont, Tuesday, Oct. 1, I left brother 
 Van Tuyl, expecting to meet him in Sutton, Vermont, and preach- 
 ed in the evening at Weeks' corner in Parsonsficld. The school 
 house was filled, about fifty stood without, and though the evening 
 was cold, they continued to hear till the discourse was closed. 
 Many wept. Monday evening I spoke to three or four hundred 
 in Sandwich ; after which I received an interesting letter from a 
 young man of that town, who informed me, that at the meetings I 
 had lately attended in that place, his mind was much wrought up- 
 on by the Spirit ; that he had been brought to repent of his sins, 
 and that now his heart was filled with the love of God, &c.* ' O 
 that the Lord may bless and keep him in the truth of Jesus.* 
 
 I next visited several churches in Weare quarterly meeting. In 
 Bradford I found, to my great joy, that God was again pouring out 
 
 *This young man was Samuel Beede, a Quaker. He was well educated, and pos- 
 sessed more than a common intellect. As he afterwards was a prominent man in the 
 Free-will Baptist denomination, and exerted much influence over the subject of this Me- 
 moir, the reader may be interested in an extract from this letter. — Ed. 
 
 '' My Christian Brother, 
 
 Thou may est think strange at being thus addressed by a stranger, but af- 
 ter a little explanation, thou mayest not wonder that I should have a desire to do thus. 
 On Thursday, the 9th inst., I met a stranger in the street whose countenance greatly 
 struck me, and I said with myself, "This is a heavenly messenger." On the evening of 
 the following day, I attended meeting where I had been told that David Marks, a stran- 
 ger from the west, was expected to preach. He was the man whom I met in the street. 
 And indeed he did preach — and he preached the gospel, too, which touched my heart, aad 
 smote my breast with deep repentance, and kindled the most ardent desires lo become a 
 true follower of Jesus. The next day, I attended meeting in the P. M., but I saw noth- 
 ing of David again till the 12th, in the A. M., I saw him weeping. Probably, thought I, 
 his heart is tilled with the love of .lesus, and with a sense of the undone situation of 
 poor sinners, and these things cause him to weep. I thought then, David will have 
 something for us this afternoon, and my expectations were realized ; for the gospel was 
 again proclaimed, and reached the hearts of many. Blessed be God our Savior, for the 
 love of Jesus that filled my heart. I shall never forget it while I live. When the meet- 
 ing closed, I felt as though I must speak with David before he left the town ; but, as I 
 could not then, I concluded to attend the evening meeting where Elder Bowles was ex- 
 pected to preach. Perhaps thou mayest recollect that as thou wast about to enter the 
 house, a person inquired thy name, and then fell into weeping. That was the person 
 who now addresses thee. So unexpected an interview, together with a sense of the 
 low state of Zion, and of the wickedness of my own heart, filled me with such tender- 
 ness, and such desires for the prosperity of the church, and the repentance of sinners, 
 that I could not refrain from weeping. But ah! my friend, when I come to speak of the 
 meeting, words and language must fail me. The blessed joys of that heavenly season 
 cannot be expressed. I was never at such a meeting before. The power of the gospel 
 was poured forth as a river. It seemed to me the whole audience were almost persuad- 
 ed to be Christians. Several, I know, were smitten to the heart and almost ready to 
 come forward and confess Jesus their Savior : and I will tell thee, my friend, that I was 
 one of those myself who had long been almost persuaded to be a Christian. My situa- 
 tion and feelings were told to me by Elder Bowles and my friend David much better 
 than I could havo told them myself. * * My soul was completely filled with the love 
 of Jesus, and I thought that if it should appear to be my duty, I should be willing to tes- 
 tify for Jesus at that meeting. But I could not see that I had anything more to do at 
 that time than submit to the will of God, and tell my feelings to those who had handled 
 His word so skillfully for the good of my soul. Blessed be the name of the Lord for the 
 peace I find in submitting my will to His. Do, my friend, pray for me and the others 
 who were with me tenderly afTected at that meeting. 
 
 Since that evening, my soul has been filled with tenderness and prayer. Weeping and 
 mourning over Zion have been my constant companions. My very heart seems willing 
 to leave all and follow Jesus. I almost long to go with David to proclaim salvation to 
 
204 MEMOIRS 01? 
 
 his Spirit on this people, and that eighty persons had professed to 
 pass from death unto life. Several of the converts, I understood, 
 dated their awakening from the revival in this place nearly five 
 years before. I held two meetings with them, and we were hap- 
 pier than the kings of the earth. Fishersfield had also been bless- 
 ed with some revival. Thursday, October 30, I rode fifty-nine 
 miles to Lisbon and preached in the evening. My soul was hap- 
 py. The day following I held a meeting in Waterford, Vt. Some 
 wept, others rejoiced and thought this a good meeting ; but to me 
 it was a dark time. 
 
 On Saturday I was joined by brother Van Tuyl. Sabbath we 
 met about four hundred people assembled in the meeting house 
 built by Elder John Colby. A large number of this assembly 
 were disciples of Jesus. In the forenoon I spoke from Isa. 25:6, 
 7, 8: and in the afternoon from Mark 16:15, 16. In both meet- 
 ings, I believe the Lord stood at my right hand and blessed the 
 word of truth. In the evening we were accompanied by Elder 
 Jonathan Woodman and wife, to the house of brother David Colby, 
 a preacher of the gospel, and a brother to John Colby, who now 
 rests from his labors. We held a meeting in the neighborhood, 
 and spent the night at the dwelling of brother Colby. In this 
 house. Elder John Colby lived in youth, and from it commenced 
 his extensive travels and gospel labors, which wore out his life in 
 the morning of his days. My mind was filled with solemn reflec- 
 tion, while viewing the places that had witnessed his tears, and 
 lodging in the room which he finished for his place of rest, study, 
 and devotion. In the morning we visited his father, Dea. Thomas 
 Colby, whom we found in the evening of life, strong in the Lord, 
 and waiting in full expectation of the rest that his son, and some others 
 of his family, had gone to enjoy. After a short and agreeable vis- 
 it, we returned with brother Woodman, from whom we received 
 some favors. " It is more blessed to give than to received 
 
 Our interview with brother Woodman was interesting. He had 
 just returned from Montpelier, w^here he had served as chaplain to 
 the legislature in its last session. He was called to the ministry at 
 an early age, and, through the blessing of God, his labors have 
 been very useful. He is still but a young man. For the sake of 
 Zion, may his life be continued long on the earth. On Tuesday 
 forenoon we held a meeting in the north part of Danville. It was 
 
 dying sinners. If my God should call me, I feel as though I could say with thee, "I 
 will preach the gospel, if I beg my bread." Do assure thyself that as an ambHssador of 
 Jesus, thou hast the highest affection of my soul in the love of the gospel. My spirit 
 goes with thee in carrying the gospel to sinners. My daily prayers are for thy success 
 and prosperity in the truth. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with thee henceforth and 
 forever, Amen. Yours in love, Samukl Bebde. 
 
 Sandwich, Oct. 21. 1828. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 205 
 
 a solemn season, yet if the Lord sent us to this place, it might be 
 said to the people, " I was a hungered, and ye gave me no meat : 
 — I was a stranger and ye took me not in ;" for no one invited us 
 to take any refreshment — so we proceeded on our way in the rain. 
 But it is enough that the servant be as his Lord. Continuing our 
 journey, we attended meetings in Topsham, Orange, Corinth, Tun- 
 bridge — and on Saturday arrived at Randolph. These opportuni- 
 ties were blessed of the Lord. ' O, that I may meet some fruits 
 of them in heaven.' 
 
 Sabbath, Nov. 9, 1828, I preached with freedom to about seven 
 hundred people in Randolph, from Ps. 50:21, 22. They were 
 generally solemn, and many wept. We were affectionately receiv- 
 ed in brother Arnold's family, who, with other brethren and friends, 
 communicated to us liberally such things as we needed. May the 
 Lord reward their kindness. In the afternoon, Elder Ziba Pope 
 accompanied us twelve miles to Bethel, where I preached in the 
 evening. We staid at an inn, and in the morning Elder Pope 
 kindly paid our bill. We then parted with him, crossed the Green 
 Mountains to West Rutland, and on the next day preached in 
 Kingsbury, but had a dark, trying time. Yet the saying of our 
 Lord, " Blessed are the poor in spirit,'^ &c., comforted me. We 
 next held meetings in Wilton and Broad Albin ; and on Saturday 
 arrived at Plainfield, N. Y. Sabbath forenoon. We enjoyed a good 
 season at the Free Communion Baptist meeting house in Winfield, 
 and in the afternoon, I preached to a few in the Seventh-Day Bap- 
 tist meeting house at Brookfield. We stopped the next day with 
 my friend S. Gardiner, and held a meeting at his house. But, alas ! 
 how had seven years changed the scene — and how different was 
 the general state of feeling from what it was eight years be- 
 fore, when sinners were flocking to Jesus ! As the converts were 
 not gathered into any particular church, they had become greatly 
 scattered. Some had joined different denominations, some had 
 backslidden, some had removed, and some had gone " the way of 
 all the earth." While viewing the different state of things, I ex- 
 claimed with sorrow, " How is the gold become dim ! how is the 
 most fine gold changed !" The godly man hath ceased, and the 
 voice of devotion hath faltered on the lips of the convert. The 
 Lord gave me freedom in speaking : yet a cloud of thick darkness 
 seemed to hang over the people, and Zion appeared to be clothed 
 with mourning. Yet I had a witness that my garments were clear 
 from the blood of sinners in Brookfield. 
 
 Wednesday, Nov. 19, we proceeded to NorMch, and were kind- 
 ly received by brother Richmond and family. A few had been 
 converted and six had been baptized since my former visit. In 
 the evening we held a meeting ; and the next day went to an ap- 
 18 
 
206 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 pointment at the white meeting house on the Unadilla river; but 
 the day being stormy, the door was locked, and only one person 
 appeared. We kneeled on the steps, united in prayer, and then 
 departed. Soon we met with several whose attention had been at- 
 tracted, and they solicited us to return. The door being opened, 
 about twenty assembled, and I spoke from Luke 10:42. 
 
 On Friday we held a meeting in Eaton, and were blessed with 
 the free Spirit. We proceeded to Fabius and tarried over the 
 Sabbath. I gave two discourses and brother Van Tuyl one. 
 Monday we met a large assembly in Spafford, and saw some sigTis 
 of a good work. One said, that when we came to this place be- 
 fore, she was in her sins, but the Lord sent the word to her heart, 
 and she believed he had converted her soul. After preaching in 
 the north part of the town, we held meetings as we proceeded, in 
 Elbridge, Cato and Mentz. Friday, Nov. 28, we arrived at my 
 father's, and, unexpectedly, found my sister, whom we left at the 
 point of death, still alive. Her health was partially restored, and 
 she appeared much concerned for the salvation of her soul. 
 
 Sabbath, Nov. 30, though laboring under much indisposition, I 
 attended two meetings in Junius ; and the next day, on our way to 
 Canandaigua, preached to a few in Waterloo with freedom. We 
 were affectionately received by our friends in Canandaigua. Here 
 brother Van Tuyl left me, and returned to his parents in Jerusa- 
 lem. During the time he had accompanied me, he generally labor- 
 ed under great trials respecting his duty in the church. He pray- 
 ed much, and sometimes, after the journey of the day, spent half 
 the night in supplication to God. Still he seemed to have as deep 
 a sense of his unworthiness as any Christian I ever saw. But 
 about the time of our return, he became settled in the belief, that 
 God had called him to the gospel ministry, and that he would 
 strengthen him in obedience. He had generally spoken by exhor- 
 tation ; but now he resolved to give himself up to God, and ven- 
 ture forth preaching the doctrine of the gospel, and his peace be- 
 came settled. We had journeyed with each other fifteen hundred 
 miles ; our hearts were knit together, and we enjoyed the sweetest 
 union : yes, we truly knew the joys of Christian friendship. Pre- 
 vious to our separation, we retired and joined in solemn prayer. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 207 
 
 CHAPTER XX. 
 
 Particulars of my Travels, Sfc. for five montlis after my Return 
 from New England. 
 
 Saturday, Dec. 6, 1828, I attended monthly meeting with the 
 church in Canandaigua, and our hearts were comforted together. 
 I continued in the town a few days, and held several meetings. In 
 the first of these, it pleased the Lord to send the word with power 
 to the heart of a young man who had been much opposed to God 
 and his people. Others also became serious, and an encouraging 
 prospect caused joy to spring up in our hearts. 
 
 During this month, I went to the Holland Purchase, visited many 
 churches, and enjoyed some precious seasons. In Clarkson and 
 Parma, a revival had commenced under the labors of Elder Eli 
 Hannibal, and was progressing gloriously. In the last of the 
 month I returned eastward, and on Saturday and Sabbath, Jan. 
 3 and 4, 1829, attended the Ontario quarterly meeting at Galen. 
 Several were awakened and one hopefully converted. It was said 
 that no session of this quarterly meeting had been so interesting 
 as this. Several received letters of commendation to preach the 
 gospel, and three churches containing about ninety members, were 
 received into the quarterly meeting. 
 
 From Galen I returned to Canandaigua, and, to my great joy, I 
 found an increasing attention to the things of God. On the 9th 
 and 10th of January, several others, with myself, went from Can- 
 andaigua to attend the Benton quarterly meeting at Middlesex. 
 Among the number was the young man, that was awakened at my 
 first meeting after my return from N. England, and also his com- 
 panion, whom he had just married. She was also seeking the Lord. 
 We enjoyed a comforting season through the meeting, and at the 
 close the young man's wife was brought into liberty. On Monday 
 we returned to Canandaigua, and in the evening had a meeting. 
 After several had spoken, the young man said, it had been a sub- 
 ject of much query with him, why he did not find a pardon of his 
 sins. " But," said he, " I have concluded, it is because I have not 
 given up my young companions, for still I fear their persecutions 
 and dread their vain laughter. I will give them up." Then he 
 fell on his knees and solemnly bade his associates farew^ell, declar- 
 ing, that by the help of God, he would go with them in sin no 
 longer. He arose, sat awhile, then fell again on his knees and 
 said, " O Lord God, thou hast converted my companion, and why 
 may not my poor soul be converted !" Soon his voice seemed to 
 
208 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 falter, and after a little pause, he said, " Lord, it begins to come ; 
 I thank thee — ^but there is some burden yet left ; Lord, take it all 
 away." He seemed to plead with God, as a man pleadeth to the 
 face of a friend, till his burden was all removed. Then he arose 
 and praised the Lord aloud, and took every unconverted person in 
 the assembly by the hand, and exhorted each to forsake sin, and 
 begin with him to seek for immortality. I never saw the hand of 
 God more visible in the conversion of a soul, than in this instance. 
 The assembly was small, and there was not one whose heart was 
 unmoved, or that refused to bend the knee. From this time the 
 seriousness of several began to increase. 
 
 Having been appointed with brother Van Tuyl to preach once 
 in two weeks with the churches in the Benton quarterly meeting, 
 the ensuing two weeks were occupied with my first tour. Some 
 of the assemblies were very large, and were scenes of thrilling in- 
 terest. 
 
 Sabbath, Feb. 1, 1829, was as beautiful a winter day as I ever 
 saw. It seemed to me that the earth was full of the glory of 
 the Lord. I spoke to a considerable assembly in Milo, and in the 
 latter part of the meeting much solemnity rested on the people. 
 ' O that men would give " earnest heed'' to the things which belong 
 to their eternal peace, in the day of their visitation.' My health 
 had become so impaired by my excessive labors, that I thought it 
 duty to rest a little, and refused the entreaties of some friends to 
 attend a meeting in the evening. But, nothwithstanding, they gave 
 out the appointment. I endeavored to speak to the people, though 
 in much weakness, and with little liberty. 
 
 Feb. 7, I attended a meeting in Canandaigua, and found the 
 prospect so promising, that I decided to remain and labor for a lit- 
 tle season with the people. The next day was the Sabbath. Af- 
 ter the close of my evening sermon, a daughter of a noted deist 
 arose, confessed her need of salvation and determination to seek it. 
 For four days I visited and prayed from house to house, and re- 
 joiced to find a few resolved to seek salvation. I attended two 
 meetings, in one of which I spoke from the saying of certain 
 Greeks, " Sir, we would see Jesus" A desire to see Jesus was in- 
 creased in the minds of some, several kneeled, their cries and 
 groans were heard through the assembly, and one was converted. 
 
 On Saturday and Sabbath I attended appointments in Poultney, 
 and in the early part of the week held three meetings in Canandai- 
 gua ; some confessed their sins, and one professed to be born of God. 
 I visited a man that had been sick the greater part of two years, 
 and was now given over by his physician. He said that he had 
 never been confined a day till this sickness ; yet he had neither 
 feared nor served God ; and now he was confident he had but few 
 
DAVID MAKSS. 209 
 
 days to live — was still unprepared, and had awful fears of the 
 change to which he was swiftly hastening. With bitter weeping 
 he lamented his neglect, and cried to God for mercy, and asked 
 others to pray for him. Alas ! what multitudes thus neglect God, 
 and are filled with confusion when death begins to cast its gloomy 
 shade around them. They see the end of their associates, yet re- 
 fuse to take warning, till they themselves are plunged into the same 
 wo. " that men were wise, that they would consider their latter 
 end" Friday, Feb. 20, brother "William Van Tuyl had an ap- 
 pointment to preach with us ; but as he did not come, I gave a dis- 
 course. We enjoyed a favored season : two spoke and requested 
 prayers. Our meetings on the Sabbath were solemn. I gave a 
 discourse from Jer. 8:20 : " The harvest is past, the summer is end- 
 ed, and we are not saved." 
 
 On Tuesday I left Canandaigua to go to the Susquehanna river, 
 intending to return immediately. I was informed at Waterloo, that 
 brother William Van Tuyl was sick with the mumps, which was 
 the reason he did not attend his appointment. On Thursday eve- 
 ning I arrived at the house of Elder E. Dodge in Dryden, and 
 here I heard, "William Van Tuyl is dead!" For a few min- 
 utes I was " slow of heart to believe ;" then the reality rushed up- 
 on me like a flood ; and for half an hour grief so overcame me, 
 that I could scarcely retain my breath. ' William was dear to me, 
 and it seemed but yesterday that he held my hand and prayed by 
 my side. I felt that the hand of the Lord had indeed touched 
 me. William, my companion in travel, and in the bonds of the 
 gospel, is gone ; and I shall not see him again till I go to the other 
 world. O what a satisfaction it would be could I have one more 
 conversation with him. But no ! if I visit his grave, it will be si- 
 lent ; and if I speak at his tomb, it will not answer me. William 
 was my friend. I knew of none on earth that loved me more. 
 Many a half night have we spent together, when the fields witness- 
 ed our devotions, and the Lord heard our prayers. I anticipated 
 comfort with him in days to come. But now he is cut off from life 
 at the early age of twenty-three. O, how suddenly was he called ! 
 In the vigor of health, and in the strength of youth, he has fallen.* 
 Leaving Dryden, I rode more than twenty miles, to Owego, with- 
 out stopping ; and for several miles I could not refrain from weep- 
 ing aloud. 
 
 In the early part of the week I went, by request, to visit a revi- 
 val in Greece, near Rochester, and attended a conference, which 
 was conducted as these useful meetings generally are in times of 
 revival. It was thought one hundred in the vicinity had experi- 
 enced a sa\dng change within four months. I preached three times 
 with much freedom, and rejoiced to hear the converts praise the 
 
 xa* 
 
210 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 Lord. They were much engaged ; their testimonies were in the 
 Spirit, and in quick succession. 
 
 Returning to Canandaigua, I spent the Sabbath, March 15, with 
 the church. Our evening meeting was rendered very solemn by 
 the power of God. Five spoke in a very affecting manner, and ex- 
 pressed much anxiety to find salvation. At the close of the meet- 
 ing, twenty persons promised to observe the next day as a solemn 
 fast. Then a young convert, who had acknowledged that the Scrip- 
 tures required him to be baptized, but had neglected this command- 
 ment, because he felt no particular impression to obedience, arose 
 and said, that he now considered it his duty to keep all his Lord's 
 precepts, and, as the next day was appointed for a fast, he would 
 follow his Lord in baptism. Accordingly, at the hour appointed, 
 the people assembled, and the Lord met with us. The young man 
 was baptized, and became a useful member of the church. 
 
 During the week, I commenced a second tour through the 
 churches of Benton quarterly meeting. March 27, I met an as- 
 sembly at the school house in Milo, where brother A^an Tuyl had 
 preached his last discourse. I stood in the place once occupied by 
 him, and with many tears gave vent to the feelings of my heart. I 
 spent the night at the house of brother Randolph, where brother 
 Van Tuyl closed his eyes in death. The family gave me the fol- 
 lowing particulars : After returning from his appointment, he laid 
 himself on the bed and said, " I shall no more arise.'* They then 
 sent twelve miles to his parents, and informed them of his situa- 
 tion. When his mother entered his apartment, she was surprised 
 at his feeble appearance, and exclaimed, " O William, my son, do 
 you think you shall get well ?" He replied, " Dear mother, it 
 concerns me little, whether I live or die." Having taken cold, 
 while travelling to meet his appointments, his disorder was past 
 cure. He endured severe distress with much patience, and often 
 expressed his willingness to depart. He adjusted his temporal 
 concerns with calmness, and gave a suit of clothes to a poor preach- 
 er. His constitution was naturally strong, but in one week it 
 yielded to the violence of disorder, and he approached the gate of 
 death. His friends, seeing that he was faihng fast, asked him the 
 state of his mind. Being unable to talk, he requested a hymn 
 book, and pointed them to the twenty-seventh hymn, of the first 
 book of Dr. Watts, as expressive of his feelings. 
 
 " Death may dissolve my body now, 
 
 And bear my spirit home ; 
 Why do my minutes move so slow, 
 
 Nor my deliverer come." &c. 
 
 During his sickness, he had not once expressed a desire to re- 
 cover, but seemed to rejoice in the expectation of his change. Be- 
 
 4i 
 
DAVID MARKS. 211 
 
 ing asked if he felt willing to depart, he said, " Yes." This was 
 his last word ; then, with sweet composure in his countenance, he 
 lifted his hand toward heaven, — it fell on his bosom, and he sunk 
 in the embraces of death. He had requested that I should preach 
 at his funeral ; but his parents not knowing where they could find 
 me, called on Elder Bignall, who delivered a sermon on the oc- 
 casion. 
 
 Previous to his journey to New England, he had intended to 
 study medicine, and made an engagement for that purpose ; but, at 
 the yearly meeting in Middlesex, the earnest requests for preach- 
 ing that were presented from almost every direction, touched his 
 heart, and reminded him of his call. Retiring with me to a field, 
 he fell on his face, and for a long time wept aloud ; then he cov- 
 enanted to abandon his temporal prospects, and submit himself to - 
 God. After returning from New England, till his last sickness he 
 preached constantly, with freedom, and to general satisfaction. I 
 saw him for the last time at the January term of the Benton quar- 
 terly meeting, and then, expecting to meet soon, we parted with- 
 out bidding each other farewell. Thus thousands of friends sep- 
 arate, expecting soon to see each other, but meet not again in this 
 world. On Saturday morning I spent more than two hours at his 
 grave in solemn reflection, and felt that it was better for me to go 
 to the tomb of a friend, than to visit the house of mirth. 
 
 I held four meetings in Milo, and one in Barrington ; and on 
 Wednesday, preached in Middlesex. Signs of revival in this vi- 
 cinity had encouraged the brethren, and ten now covenanted to 
 seek the Lord. Some of them wept aloud, and appeared to be 
 near the kingdom of Grod. Shortly afterwards, the greater part of 
 these professed to find Christ. I held meetings in two other neigh- 
 borhoods in Middlesex, and on Saturday returned to Canandaigua. 
 I commenced my late journey with a wagon ; but in consequence 
 of a fall of snow on the first Sabbath, I was under the necessity of 
 borrowing an old sleigh, which I used ten days, and in the time 
 travelled a circuitous tour of one hundred miles. The ground be- 
 ing bare half of this distance, I walked the greater part of the way, 
 and was obliged to pay nearly seven dollars for the use of the 
 sleigh. This is a specimen of the frequent expenses of an itiner- 
 ant preacher, who will not let small difficulties cause him to disap- 
 point an assembly. 
 
 Sabbath, April 5, I preached in Canandaigua, and baptized a 
 young convert, who was added to the church. The church was 
 happily united ; and though the revival had ceased to spread, there 
 were several serious inquirers, and their sighs frequently gave ad- 
 ditional solemnity to our meetings. The ensuing week, I held 
 meetings in several towns between Canandaigua and Scriba, and 
 
 X**. 
 
212 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 on Sabbath, April 12, preached to a crowd of people assembled at 
 the latter place. Nearly a year had passed since my last visit to 
 this town. Though the church had enjoyed little preaching in the 
 time, its members remained steadfast — and of the twenty-three that 
 I baptized, I believe none had turned back after satan. This gave 
 me much joy. I spent eight days in Scriba and the towns in its 
 vicinity. Our meetings were favored seasons. In one, eleven 
 anxious sinners presented themselves for prayer. At another, I 
 baptized three who were added to the church. 
 
 On Monday I attended a meeting three miles south of Oswego 
 village. As it commenced, a \iolent shower arose, and I spoke 
 from Matt. 24:27, " For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and 
 shineth even unto the west, so shall also the coming of the Son of man 
 her The Spirit moved on the people, and the frequent flashes of 
 lightning illustrated the solemn subject. In the three days following, 
 I preached in Victory and Cato, — proceeded to Weedsport, and was 
 affectionately received by brother Joseph Finck. He had been ed- 
 ucated for a lawyer, and now, with his wife and a daughter, was a 
 member of the church in Cato. Though they lived at a distance 
 from their brethren, they appeared to be true Christians, — were 
 strict in their attendance on family prayer, morning and evening. 
 Every child, servant, and visitant, was required to attend the exer- 
 cises. A part of the family, with myself, was about to go to an 
 evening meeting ; but lest some should retire before our return, or 
 be too weary to be profited, they were called together for family 
 devotion. O, that every Christian would keep such order, and 
 honor the family altar. If all were thus faithful, what good would 
 result to the rising generation ! How many might be converted, 
 that for want thereof, will probably die in their sins, and sink to ev- 
 erlasting ruin! 
 
 Sabbath, I preached in Spafford, and many were much affected. 
 A young man said, that during a discourse in my last visit, convic- 
 tion touched his heart, and he resolved to seek the Lord till he 
 should find salvation. He related his experience for baptism, and 
 was received by the church. In the afternoon, I preached with 
 the second church in Spafford, and baptized the young man. On 
 Monday I went to Conquest, and attended a meeting of business to 
 settle a difficulty in the church of Cato and Conquest, occasioned by 
 an impostor, whom they had received without letters of commen- 
 dation, judging from his own testimony, and his appearance, that 
 he was a good man. The result of this meeting was, that the 
 church generally became convinced he was a deceiver, and agreed 
 to hold no fellowship with him. But, four members were dissatis- 
 fied with this decision, and withdrew from the church — took part 
 with the impostor for a few months, when he got drunk, and con- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 213 
 
 ducted so wickedly that he was put into the state's prison. Then, 
 I understood, they gave him up, and concluded that he was a bad 
 man. This is one instance, among several within my knowledge, 
 in which churches have suffered, and the cause has been brought 
 into contempt, by the reception of a stranger without suitable let- 
 ters of commendation. Some good people have thought them to 
 be unnecessary, and have supposed that they possessed a spirit of 
 discernment,- which enabled them to know a man's heart by his 
 own testimony and appearance. By refen-ing, however, to Acts 
 18:27, and 2 Cor. 3:1, it is evident, that letters of commendation 
 were in use among the Apostles and primitive Christians : — and it 
 hardly seems possible, that any Christian, after reflection, can sup- 
 pose himself to be so much more spiritual in discernment than the 
 primitive Christians, that he may safely dispense with the use of 
 ' letters of commendation.' 
 
 After preaching once in Conquest, I went to Tyre, formerly a 
 part of Junius, and found my father very sick. He could speak 
 with difHculty, and was in constant expectation of death. I stopped 
 a day, and then appointments called me to leave. I had some 
 queries respecting duty ; but recollecting our Lord's reply to one, 
 who said, " Suffer me first to go and bury my father," I concluded 
 it was duty to fulfill my engagements. With a sorrowful heart, I 
 took leave of my father, and on Friday, May 1, arrived at Canan- 
 daigua. On the Sabbath, the Lord accompanied his word with 
 power to the hearts of many, and we enjoyed a pleasant season in 
 attending to baptism. 
 
214 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 My Third and Fourth Joumies to the District of London, Upper 
 Canada^ and other particulars till November, 1829. 
 
 Wednesday, May 13, 1829, 1 started to go to Upper Canada, 
 appointments having been previously given ; and during the week, 
 I attended two meetings in Greece, one in Clarkson, and one in 
 Parma. In Greece, a few came forward for prayer. Sabbath, 
 May 17, I preached in Parma on the atonement. Afterwards this 
 sermon was publicly opposed by some advocates of a particular 
 atonement. A considerable number of converts were present, and 
 we enjoyed a good season in communion. A revival had lately re- 
 joiced many in this vicinity, and Elder Hannibal had baptized 
 twenty. In the evening, I preached to a crowded assembly in 
 Clarkson, and enjoyed freedom. The Lord had poured out his 
 Spirit in this place also, and seven had lately been added to the 
 church. On Tuesday, I spoke two hours with freedom, to a crowd- 
 ed assembly on the town line of Batavia and Elba. Many were 
 under serious impressions, and about twenty came forward for 
 prayer. Six years had passed since I labored in this place ; and 
 now my heart again rejoiced, to find that another revival had com- 
 menced, and four persons had ah'eady been converted. Among 
 these was Esq. Foster, son of Judge Foster, lately deceased. He 
 appeared to be like a little child. Thus, pure religion makes all 
 its subjects innocent as children, and affectionate like brethren. 
 Infidels have nothing in their system that can do this. 
 
 I next preached twice in Royalton, and spoke to an attentive as- 
 sembly in the court house at Lockport. On Friday, being very 
 desirous to attend the Bethany quarterly meeting at Attica, I con- 
 cluded to return fifty miles, though it would oblige me to travel 
 with much speed to reach my next appointment, in Canada. The 
 reports from the churches were very refreshing. On the Sabbath, 
 about eight hundred people were present at an early hour. An in- 
 teresting discourse was preached by Elder Brown. I then felt it 
 duty to address the people. The Lord filled me with his Spirit, all 
 glory be to his name ! for without his grace, all preaching is but as 
 " sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal." The meeting closed vnXh. 
 great solemnity, and several were apparently much profited by the 
 services. 
 
 In the evening, I rode eighteen miles to brother Barker's in Ba- 
 tavia ; and finding the family mostly absent at a meeting, I retired 
 to rest at 11 o'clock. At two I arose, and found that the family 
 returned from meeting only an hour before; and that since I 
 
DAVID MARKS. 215 
 
 preached in the place five days previous, it was believed six or sev- 
 en had been converted. Now, we spoke of the loving kindness of 
 the Lord and were very happy. Between three and four o'clock, 
 I went on my way to Canada , and, though the weather was ex- 
 tremely warm, I reached my appointment in Southwold on Thurs- 
 day at six o'clock, having travelled two hundred and fourteen 
 miles in four days. Friday, I held a meeting with brother Straight 
 in another part of Southwold. In this vicinity, the state of religion 
 was quite low ; yet it pleased the " good Shepherd" to manifest 
 himself to his flock at this time, and one came forward for prayer. 
 We spent the Sabbath in Dunwich, and each gave a discourse, 
 with considerable freedom, to a large assembly. Here also there 
 was a lack of engagedness, and many seemed to have been chilled, 
 as by the north wind. Yet I believe the brethren generally were 
 determined to strive for heaven. 
 
 On Wednesday, three brethren accompanied me twelve miles on 
 horseback in a rough road, to a Scotch settlement. Here we met 
 a considerable assembly, composed mostly of emigrants from Scot- 
 land. They spoke the Gaelic language, and usually heard preach- 
 ing in that tongue every Sabbath. The Lord gave me liberty, 
 and, though they understood English very poorly, they appeared 
 serious, and requested us to hold another meeting. Thursday, I 
 spoke in Southwold from Rev. 2:1. We had a solemn, confessing 
 time. Many were revived, spoke of their unfaithfulness, and of 
 their duty, in a very feeling manner. At times there was such 
 weeping in the assembly, that it seemed enough to touch the hard- 
 est heart. One was awakened, and requested prayers. 
 
 On Saturday, I attended the monthly meeting of the church in 
 Dunwich. Some of the brethren, I understood, were at home, en- 
 gaged in worldly cares ; others were at the raising of a building, 
 &c., so that our number was small ; still we enjoyed a comfortable 
 waiting on the Lord. I endeavored to urge upon those present, 
 the impropriety of brethren's absenting themselves from monthly 
 meeting on such occasions ; and remarked, if worldlings, or oth- 
 ers, wished to invite the assistance of their Christian neighbors, 
 they might choose another day, rather than the one set apart by 
 the church for a sacred purpose. But, if worldlings will not re- 
 gard the appointment of the church, then Christians should well 
 know, in such cases, which call is binding, and obey the exhorta- 
 tion of Paul, Heb. 10:25, " Not forsaking the assembling of our- 
 selves together.'* Were it not that Christians meet for worship, 
 church visibility, if not Christianity itself, would soon become ex- 
 tinct in the earth ; and this probably would be the consequence, 
 should every Christian neglect the meetings of the church. Yet 
 strange it is, that there are some professed Christians, who think 
 
216 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 themselves excusable in neglecting the appointments of the church. 
 I remarked, that I thought such members as neglected meetings 
 that are essential to church visibility, and attended to worldly con- 
 cerns on the day of their appointment, as much violate their obli- 
 gation as Christians, and as church members, as they would by 
 profaning the Sabbath. A church consists of individuals, and, to 
 be as "a city set on a hill^^ its members must attend worship, and 
 let their light shine. It is, however, but just to remark, that this 
 case was an exception to the general faithfulness of the brethren 
 in Canada ; for I have found no people that take more pains to at- 
 tend their meetings. 
 
 Sabbath, June 7, 1 preached on the town line of Dunwich and 
 Soiithwold, but my mind was in trials. Others, however, appeared 
 to be happy. In the after part of the day, the Lord poured heav- 
 enly consolation into my soul, and opened my mouth to praise him. 
 On Tuesday, I was greatly depressed with a sense of my unwor- 
 thiness and little spirituality. O, why this dull and stupid state ? 
 Why so little power in my preaching ? and why are my labors at- 
 tended with so little success ? O Lord, revive thy work in my 
 soul. At five o'clock in the afternoon, I spoke from 1 Corinthians 
 1:25, " Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men,^' &c. It 
 pleased the Lord to open to my mind the excellencies of the gospel, 
 and refresh me with the streams that " make glad the city of 
 God." 
 
 On Wednesday, brother Straight and myself started for Oxford, 
 to attend the annual conference of the Free Communion Baptists 
 in this province, and held a meeting in the east part of Westmins- 
 ter. We understood that in this neighborhood, though thickly set- 
 tled, there was scarcely a professor of Christianity. While speak- 
 ing to the few that attended, I was so affected with a sense of their 
 situation, that I gave vent to my feelings by many tears. 
 
 Friday, June 12, 1829, the conference opened at 10 o'clock, A. 
 M., at the house of Dea. Burtch. Being requested to preach, I 
 spoke from 1 Pet. 2:5. The Lord favored me with one of my 
 best seasons, and comforted the hearts of many. Our yearly meet- 
 ing had appointed brother Straight and myself to attend this con- 
 ference to open a correspondence, and, if convenient, to effect a un- 
 ion with this people. They received us affectionately, and advised 
 their churches to appoint messengers to meet in conference with 
 us in two weeks. On Saturday morning a sermon was preached, 
 and the remainder of the day was occupied by the brethren. On 
 Sabbath forenoon, I spoke of the fulness there is in Christ for lost 
 and perishing sinners, from Matt. 18:11, "For the Son of man is 
 come to save that which was lost." In the afternoon, brother 
 Straight preached from 1 Thess. 4:16, 17, 18, ^^ For the Lord him- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 217 
 
 telf shall descend from heaven with a shout^^ &c. Many were 
 comforted. The awakening power of God reached the hearts of 
 sinners, and several left the assembly under serious impressions. 
 We then united in communion, and had a very solemn season. 
 
 On Monday I rode forty miles to London, and was kindly re- 
 ceived by brother Huckins and family. Next morning a messen- 
 ger came in haste, and told us that sister Sophronia, wife of Dea, 
 Pierce, was thought to be dying. We hastened, and on coming 
 near the house, heard death-like groans. Sh^ was in great dis- 
 tress : soon, however, her struggles abated ; she gave me her hand 
 and called me by name, saying, " The Lord is good to me." I 
 had often seen her when here a year before, and many times had 
 heard her sing with joy in the meetings at London, But now the 
 features of death marked her countenance. She said she thought 
 her time was short, and asked me to pray ; after which I repeated 
 the following lines of Dr. Watts : 
 
 ■" Death may dissolve my body now, 
 And hear my spirit home," &c. 
 
 She said, " Amen, and desired the brethren that were present to 
 sing. They began to sing, 
 
 ''1 know that my Redeemer lives — 
 What comfort this sweet sentence gives ! 
 He lives, he lives, who once was dead, 
 He lives my everlasting Head." 
 
 Soon she joined her hollow voice, and though her breath was short, 
 and her frame trembkd as though she was sinking in death, yet 
 she kept the tune, and sung the hymn through with ecstacies of 
 joy. Never did such glory adorn an earthly palace, as now seem- 
 ed to shine on the bed of death. All were in tears except the dy- 
 ing saint. O, that every infidel could have witnessed this scene. 
 I retired for a moment, lest I should be overcome by its touching 
 sublimity. Soon afterwards, she sung the following lines with 
 great animation : 
 
 ' O Christians, are you ready now 
 
 To cross the narrow flood ! 
 On Canaan's happy shore, behold 
 
 And see a smiling God. 
 
 To see a pilgrim as he dies, 
 
 With glory in his view; 
 To heaven he lifts his longing ej'es, 
 
 And bids the world adieu ! 
 
 While friends stand weeping all around, 
 
 And loth to let him go, 
 He shouts with his expiring breath. 
 
 And leaves them all below.' 
 
 When she had finished, she clapped her hands and shouted for joy. 
 Language cannot describe the touching glory of this scene ; but 
 19 
 
218 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the holy serenity and heavenly rapture that were then witnessed 
 amid the struggles of dying nature, were too deeply engraven on 
 the minds of the spectator to be easily forgotten. Her husband sat 
 by her and wept bitterly. She entreated him to forbear, and ex- 
 horted him to be reconciled, saying, " I shall soon get through ; 
 life is short, and you will follow me in a little time." 
 
 Immediately after this, one of her brothers arrived, took her 
 hand, and asked if she knew him. She said, " Yes, and I think I 
 shall leave you soon." Then she began to grow cold, her breath 
 grew short, her pulse ' faint and few'^she gasped — and all was 
 still. The friends began putting her in a position for lay- 
 ing out ; but, to the astonishment of all, she opened her eyes, 
 groaned, and said, " Lord, how long ?" In about ten minutes, 
 she again appeared to be breathing her last— again revived, and 
 wished to hear singing. Thus she continued through the day, 
 much distressed for want of breath, occasionally growing cold, and 
 apparently sinking in death, and tlien again reviving. 
 
 At her earnest request, a meeting had been appointed at the 
 house at 5 o'clock, P. M. ; but, as she fell into a sleep, the assem- 
 bly repaired to an adjacent grove. The interview was impressive. 
 In the evening she sung with great animation. Many spectators 
 were deeply affected, and holy manna seemed to fall upon us like 
 the dew from heaven. A friend said to her, " Singing wearies 
 you ; you would do better to forbear, till you receive new lungs 
 and a new voice." She replied, " I cannot wear out in a better 
 way." She now grew weak — her pulse ceased — ^her limbs became 
 motionless and entirely cold, and her breath short and faint. The 
 body also became cold, and some parts turned purple and spotted. 
 She continued in this state about six hours, and then, to the aston- 
 ishment of all, the body regained its heat, the pulse beat, and signs 
 of life increased. I returned with brother Huckins, and early next 
 morning, a messenger again called us to go and see her die. We 
 found her in great agony of body, but composed and happy in 
 mind. She desired prayer ; after which, the brethren began to 
 sing. She attempted to join, moved her lips, but could only occa- 
 sionally utter a sound. She continued through the day in a very 
 happy state of mind, and in the afternoon sung with great anima- 
 tion, 
 
 ' O, sisters, will you meet me,' &c. 
 
 In the evening I read a chapter, and several that were present, 
 sung her favorite hymn, 
 
 ' I know that my Redeemer lives,' &c. 
 
 She said, " I can't keep from singing," and sung with them through 
 the whole hymn. At the close, she clapped her hands, and ex- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 219 
 
 claimed, " Glory to God, glory, glory," &c. Her joy appeared in- 
 expressible, and a cloud of glory seemed to overshadow us. She 
 desired us to pray, and, though in great distress, she said, " I am 
 well." 
 
 Thus she continued through the week, and on Sabbath, June 23, 
 I addressed a large assembly, seated under a temporary bower in 
 sight of the dying saint. After sermon, a young lady, in an affect- 
 ing manner, confessed her sins and resolution to " turn and live." 
 Next, a man of gray hairs arose, and apparently with much peni- 
 tence, expressed his fears, that, by his sins, he w^as lost for ever. 
 Then, an interesting youth, lately from Lower Canada, confessed 
 with much emotion, that he was a lost sinner, and earnestly re- 
 quested the prayers of Christians. Though nearly the whole 
 church was present, I think every member spoke of the goodness 
 of God, and we enjoyed a very refreshing season. On Wednes- 
 day, June 24, sister Pierce still remained in the same happy frame, 
 and waiting every hour in constant expectation of her change. 
 But, to the surprise of all, she continued three weeks longer — and 
 then fell asleep. 
 
 On this day I started for New York in company with brother 
 Straight and his wife, and on Thursday evening preached in Ox- 
 ford. On Friday, Saturday, and Sabbath, we attended the confer- 
 ence with the messengers of the Free Communion Baptist church- 
 es. There were six messengers from the Free-will Baptist con- 
 nexion, viz., four from the churches in Canada, brother S. and my- 
 self ; and fourteen from the Free Communion Baptist connexion. 
 After a full investigation of our sentiments and practice, several 
 resolves* were passed with unanimity. These were presented to the 
 Holland Purchase yearly meeting at the term in August following, 
 and were approved unanimously. 
 
 Meetings of worship on Saturday and Sabbath were interest- 
 ing, and it pleased the Lord to bless the word to the awakening of 
 some. Sabbath evening, I preached at the house of Dea. Burtch, 
 and many were deeply impressed. After meeting, one, in great 
 distress, prayed for mercy a considerable time. Soon afterwards 
 
 * These resolves were as follows : " First, that we find only one difference in theory 
 between the two denominations, namely, whereas the Free-wilJ Baptists maintain that 
 a saint, in this state of probation, may lose that grace and that character which consti- 
 tute him such, and thus finally perish ; the Free Communion Baptists generally main- 
 tain the reverse. Secondly, we find but one difference in practice, namely, that the Free 
 Communion Baptists have a few "written articles of faith," abstract from the Scrip- 
 tures, while the Free-will Baptists acknowledge no standard hut the Bible. Thirdly, 
 aatreed, that we do not think these differences to be of sufficient importance to warrant 
 propriety in our maintaining separate visibility. Fourthly, agreed, that we hold a 
 friendly correspondence with each other — "follow after the things which make for 
 peace" — baptize — break bread, and ordain with each other as occasion may require; also 
 that we assist each other in church labors, &c., with the same ft-eedom, as though we 
 were but one denomination." 
 
220 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 he found peace in believing. We attended a meeting in Blenheim 
 the day following, and on Wednesday met about six hundred peo- 
 ple in a beautiful pine grove at St. Catharines. A stand for the 
 speaker, and seats for the people, had been prepared. I preached 
 with some freedom, and brother Straight followed me. 
 
 On Wednesday, July 2, we left the province, and in two days 
 rode eighty miles to Greece, where, according to a previous en- 
 gagement, we attended a two-days' meeting on Saturday and Sab- 
 bath, July 4 and 5. The assembly was large, the power of the 
 Lord was present, and one was hopefully converted. Monday I 
 preached near lake Ontario, and baptized four. During the week 
 following, I held ten meetings in Ogden, Byron, Elba, Batavia, At- 
 tica, Middlebuiy, and Warsaw. In the latter my soul was filled 
 with great mourning and pity for sinners. July 16, I attended 
 meetings in Leicester and Moscow. The meeting in the latter 
 place was a precious time. The Lord had lately visited this vicin- 
 ity in mercy, and forty persons had professed to have passed from 
 death unto life. On Friday I preached in Geneseo, and spent the 
 greater part of the next day mourning on account of my un worthi- 
 ness, and praying the Lord to revive his work in my soul. 
 
 Sabbath, July 19, I spoke to a solemn congregation in Conesus. 
 It was a time of much seriousness among the people, and one had 
 lately experienced a change of heart. A sudden death that had 
 happened a few days before, had been instrumental of exciting 
 much seriousness in this vicinity. The circumstances, as related 
 to me, were as follows. A young woman, who was teaching 
 school in the neighborhood, returned from worship on a Sabbath 
 afternoon. A shower soon after arose. She was seated near the 
 door, beside a young man, to whom she was engaged in marriage. 
 As the thunder increased, the young man arose, and remarked that 
 he thought it unsafe to sit in the door. The young woman replied 
 with a smile, " I will change places with you, for I am the last one 
 to be afraid of lightning." She had scarcely taken her seat, when 
 an arrow of lightning passed through the roof of the house, through 
 the chamber floor, and struck them. They both fell, and likewise 
 every person that was standing in the house, except a lad about 
 twelve years old. He passed over their bodies, supposing the 
 whole family to be dead, and carried the tidings to a neighboring 
 house. Assistance was immediately afforded, and all soon recov- 
 ered, except the young woman that feared not the lightning. On 
 her the message of wrath was executed, and she was now in eter- 
 nity. The hghtning melted a knife in the pocket of the young 
 man, rent his pantaloons, and tore his boots from his feet ; yet he 
 received no material injury. Thus was one " taken and the oth- 
 er left:' 
 
DAVID MARKS. 221 
 
 Elder Josiah Fowler who resided in this place, told me that he 
 had often conversed with this young woman, and exhorted her to 
 repentance. She would freely confess her need of an interest in 
 Christ ; yet she made vain excuses, said she was young — had time 
 enough yet, and she hoped that she should repent before death. 
 But how was she mistaken ! And, alas ! thousands of others are 
 walking in the same way, who will neither see nor feel their dan- 
 ger, till they " stumble on the dark mountains." O that men would 
 take warning. 
 
 Elder Fowler had but lately taken a residence in this place, and, 
 though in consequence of renouncing his allegiance to Free Ma- 
 sonry, as before stated, a storm of persecution had fallen upon him ; 
 yet the Lord stood at his right hand, and renewed the blessings 
 that formerly crowned his labors. In Sparta, an adjacent town, 
 his preaching had been instrumental of awakening many who had 
 already been converted. Since the commencement of the revival 
 in that place, he had baptized a number, and gathered a church of 
 sixteen members. Several of the converts attended my meeting 
 at Conesus, and gave animating exhortations. One of them, a lad 
 apparently about thirteen years of age, affectionately entreated his 
 fellow youth to come to the Savior, saying, " The sun is not more 
 full of light, nor the ocean more full of water, than Christ is of 
 grace for perishing sinners." 
 
 For the four weeks ensuing, I held meetings in Peniield, Onta- 
 rio, Reading, and Canandaigua, and also attended the Benton quar- 
 terly meeting at Catlin. Wednesday, Aug. 19, I left Canandai- 
 gua, to attend the yearly meeting, and make another visit to Up- 
 per Canada. During the journey of this week, I preached in 
 Greece, Clarkson, and Byron ; and at the latter place baptized a 
 young couple that had been lately married, and lately espoused to 
 Christ. On the Sabbath I spoke to a crowded assembly on the 
 line of Batavia and Elba, on the subject of our Lord's * great com- 
 mission.' I next held meetings in the south part of Batavia, in 
 Bethany, and Orangeville. The glory of the Lord appeared in the 
 latter assembly, to the joy of saints and conviction of sinners. A 
 small church had lately been gathered in this place, through the in- 
 strumentality of Elder J. Miner, with whom I had enjoyed many 
 pleasant hours in Green Creek, Ohio. On Wednesday I spoke to 
 a very solemn assembly in Sheldon. During the sermon, Fidel's 
 Fowler, Bignall, Straight, and some other brethren, came into the 
 meeting, and we had a pleasant interview ; for as " iron sharpen- 
 eth iron, so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." 
 These brethren were on their way to yearly meeting, and the next 
 day we proceeded in company. 
 19* 
 
222 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 On Friday, August 28, 1829, the yearly meeting commenced in 
 Eden, and continued four days. The exercises in the meetings of 
 worship were very interesting. Many were refreshed, and several 
 backsliders came forward for prayer. Elder James Harris, from 
 Upper Canada, Elders Cheney and Walker from Ohio, and Elder 
 Newbold, from Pennsylvania, attended. The Wayne quarterly 
 meeting in Ohio made application to unite with the yearly meet- 
 ing. A council was appointed to examine into their standing, and 
 if they thought advisable, to receive them into the connexion. 
 This was done. The Wayne quarterly meeting contained eight 
 churches, five elders, one unordained preacher, and one hundred 
 and forty-eight members.* 
 
 * Free-will Baptists commenced their existence, as a denomination, in N. England, at 
 a period when many entered the ministry to gain a livelihood, and when sometimes the 
 last cow of a poor man was sold to pay the minister's tax. This state of things they 
 viewed with utter abhorrence ; and although in their early rise they adopted the plan 
 of supplying the wants of the minister and the poor of the church, from a church stock, 
 raised by a tax on the members proportioned to their property, this system was not 
 adopted by the churches that were subsequently organized. Another and strange rule, 
 to give to ministers when they felt an impression to do so, prevailed in some portions of 
 the denomination. Great evils of course necessarily followed. At this srssion of the 
 H. P. yearly meeting. Mr. Murks was appointed to write a circular to the quarterly meet- 
 ings on the subject of the support of the ministry, and lay before them a regular system 
 for this specific object. The following brief extract from this circular will show his 
 tiews on this point. — Ed. 
 
 Dear Brethren: — If, in the apostolic age, the suffering of the Hebrew widows called 
 the attention of the primitive church at .Jerusalem, and engaged the apostles of the 
 Lord Jesus to devise means for their relief, [Acts 6,] should not the neglect of the daily 
 ministration to the 7ninisters of the sanctuary, call our attention ? Was the necessity of 
 tho83 widows more worthy the notice of the apostles, than the necessity of our minis- 
 ters is of our notice ? Did it excite the attention of the apostles, and obtain a record on 
 the pages of inspiration, that the widows' lack excited the murmurings of the Grecians, 
 and is It nothing tons that the lack of ministers has excited the murmurings of spectators 
 more numerous than the Grecians .'' When necessity pressed the ancient widows, did 
 the apostles say as we have, "Leave it to every one to give when and as he pleases, 
 without any to oversee except as God shall put it into their hearts ?" No. They had 
 already effectually proved the insufliciency of this method, and called the whole multi- 
 tude of disciples unto them, and appointed seven to attend upon this business. 
 
 Our ministers are compelled to neglect the Macedonian cries among the churches, to 
 turn from the requests of broken-hearted penitents, and to leave revivals, to attend to 
 their temporal affairs, and when these are half adjusted they return to the field. But O, 
 the change ! The especial season for doing good is past ; converts have joined other de- 
 nominations, and some for want of instruction and care have sunk under trials, perhaps 
 to rise not again ! Our churches are small, and several of them are losing ground, and 
 until they can have more preaching, circumstances are likely to be no more favorable. 
 But until we can agree upon a better method of supporting ininisters than we have yet 
 practiced, our ministers must dig upon their farms, and our churches be destitute. Are 
 these things nothing to us ? Shall we be tenacious, divided, and agreed upon nothing ef- 
 fectual ? Sliall the covetous man. whose sin is idolatry, pass undetected among us? — 
 Some will say, my alms I will give in secret before God, but I cannot submit to rules 
 for giving regularly. Alms are one thing, and paying an honest debt is another. Must 
 those who are called to preach, spend all they have before remittances are made to 
 them, and then become beggars, and be treated as town paupers ? What advantage has 
 disorder, irregularity, or confusion .'' Have they enabled us to support our ministers so 
 that they could devote themselves to the work ? God is a God of order. All his works 
 are in order. The sun, moon, and planets, all rise and set with regularity. The day, 
 the night, the seasons, and even all nature's laws move in regular and invariable order. 
 Men only are in confusion. Dear brethren, what have we gained by the absence of or- 
 der and regularity in the support of our ministry ? * " * * Having now effectually 
 tried and found the insufficiency of no regular method for sustaining those who labor in 
 the vineyard, is it not time for us to agree upon some system which, by the blessing of 
 God, will obviate the ditficulty. 
 
 [A plan was then submitted for carrying out this object. — Ed.] 
 
DAVID MARKS. 223 
 
 On Monday I attended a solemn meeting with Elder Harris, in 
 Eden. Next morning we continued our journey to Upper Canada, 
 and on the Thursday following arrived at Oxford. Here, a revi- 
 val had been progressing since the annual conference at this place 
 in June previous. I began to hold meetings, and when I witness- 
 ed the grace of God in this work, my heart rejoiced, and I gladly 
 pointed mourners to " the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin 
 of the world." Several that had been converted, dated their awa- 
 kening at the meetings held in my former visit. This was a com- 
 fort to my heart ; but the glory belongeth to God. I continued 
 several days in Oxford, and in Zorra, an adjacent town, and held 
 meetings in different neighborhoods. The attention of the people 
 appeared generally called to the things which belonged to their 
 peace, and we enjoyed some interesting seasons. Sabbath, Sept. 
 20, I preached twice, and baptized three in Oxford. I believe the 
 Holy Spirit seriously impressed the minds of several, particularly 
 at the time of baptism. 
 
 Sabbath evening, Sept. 20, 1829, I entered into one of the most 
 solemn and important engagements of life. It was a union in mar- 
 riage with Marilla Turner, of Zorra, Upper Canada. 
 
 [In compliance with the solicitations of several judicious friends, 
 the following extracts are given from private letters in relation to the 
 matter here alluded to. The first extract is taken from a letter to 
 Miss Turner, the other from a letter to her parents. — Ed. 
 
 " In no engagements of life are there more severe disappoint- 
 ments than in matrimony. Caution is scarcely security against 
 disappointment. ' It is not in man to direct his steps.' In the 
 opportunity I had with you, I never thought that you would expect or 
 wish my marriage to you would sacrifice my religious duties of la- 
 boring in the vineyard of the Lord, as God's Spirit and Zion's need 
 may require ; or that riches or lionors should be any condition of 
 our union. I consider that the duties of religion and those of a 
 husband perfectly agree and never interfere. An unkind husband 
 -.eannot be a Christian, or at least a good one. I would never give 
 my hand to a woman, unless I thouglit, without exception, I could, 
 and should, and would befriend her as myself in sickness, sorrow, 
 poverty, and all the depths of human woes ; and further, unless I 
 could overlook her imperfections and bear them as my own. Neith- 
 er do I want the hand of one who is not at least firmly resolved 
 to do the same. If, dear Marilla, you ever consent to become my 
 partner in life, you will find me a man of like passions as other 
 men ; and yet, you may assure yourself, that as a Christian I shall 
 at least feel tlie obhgation ' To love you even as Christ loved 
 the church, and gave himself for it.' But to promise worldly rich- 
 es, honors, or ease, I think is not my province j for these are things 
 
224 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 I have not only not promised myself, but rather contented myself 
 with the following and some other Scriptures : ' It is enough that 
 the servant be as his Lord.' ' After all these things do the Gen- 
 tiles seek, and your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need 
 of them.' ' No good thing will he withhold from them that walk 
 uprightly.' " 
 
 [ To Mr. and Mrs, Turner,'] 
 
 * * * " If I mistake not, your principal objection to our 
 union is my itinerant life ; no dwelling of my own, &c. &c. The 
 objection is worthy of consideration, and a more definite reply than 
 it has as yet received. Having been accustomed, where men gen- 
 erally promise^ only to encourage^ where they encourage, to be si- 
 lent, and thus avoid disappointing grievously ; and jealous that in 
 such an hour, I might give expectations which would rather re- 
 strict from duty's path, I think I made little reply. In all my 
 hopes, I would calculate for the worst, so that if disappointed, it 
 would be for the better. But to the objection. If, to remove this 
 objection satisfactorily, I must abandon the gospel ministry as the 
 great work of my life — it cannot be removed. If, for a wife, I 
 would abandon the cause of my Glod, I should be jealous of my 
 own heart, and that the same depravity might lead me to abandon 
 the wife of my youth, whom I could have no more reason to love 
 than Him who with his life redeemed my soul."] 
 
 Monday, Sept. 21, we bade the parental home adieu. To our 
 parents, and to us all, this was a solemn parting. In the evening, 
 I preached with freedom at Burford, and on Wednesday, at 
 St. Catharines. At the latter meeting, I understood that several 
 were seriously affected, among whom were two or three Roman 
 Catholics. Next day we visited the monument erected on Queens- 
 ton heights, to the memory of Gen. Brock, a British officer, w^ho 
 fell in battle near this spot during the late war. AYe ascended the 
 spiral staircase to the height of one hundred and twenty feet. The 
 prospect was beautiful and extensive. Yet when I considered this 
 work, I was reminded of the saying of Solomon, " Vanity of cani- 
 ties, all is vanity,'' O, how great a contrast between the reflec- 
 tions occasioned on visiting the monument of an ojpcer, and the 
 tomb of a CJiristian 1 At the former, we witness the solitude of 
 glory that has faded away ; and at the latter, we hear, as it were, 
 a voice, saying, " Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord." 
 
 On Friday morning, while we were riding near Lockport, a 
 black cloud arose, and a loud roar of thunder continued six or sev- 
 en minutes without cessation. Man and beast were frightened, and 
 all around appeared solemn like the judgment. But when the last 
 trumpet, shall be blown, and its roar be continued till all the dead 
 
DAVID MARKS. 225 
 
 shall awake, and every one appear before God, alas ! what fear 
 and trembling will then take hold on the wicked. In the afternoon 
 we arrived in Royalton, and were received affectionately by our 
 relatives. I held three or four meetings, and reached Canandai- 
 gua Oct. 1st. On the Sabbath, I preached with the church ; and 
 on Tuesday, in company with brother Straight, proceeded toward 
 Spafford, where the General Conference was soon to meet. We 
 held a meeting in Junius ; and while brother S. was exhorting sin- 
 ners to repent, a Universalist threatened him with violence, if he 
 did not stop preaching that the wicked should be damned. But he 
 waxed bold and spoke with more power. Thus the Lord maketh 
 " the wrath of man'' to praise him. Thursday, I preached at a fu- 
 neral on the island west of Montezuma, and also at Weedsport. 
 Several were affected. On the day following we arrived at Spaf- 
 ford, and met with many brethren, whose presence rejoiced my 
 heart. 
 
 Saturday, Oct. 10, 1829, the third session of the General Con- 
 ference opened in this town, at 9 o'clock, A. M. Ten messengers 
 were present from the New England states. Sabbath morning, at 
 the hour of nine, the house was filled, and at the opening of the 
 meeting, it seemed as though Ave were all " by one Spirit baptized 
 into one body." Eld. S. Curtis, a young man from Maine, preach- 
 ed from John 4:13, 14, " Whosoever drinketh," &c. The Holy 
 Spirit made considerable impression on the assembly. After a 
 short intermission. Elder N. Brown preached from 2 Pet. 1:3, 4, 
 " According as his divine power," &c. The solemnity in the as- 
 sembly continued to increase, and Elder E. Place next arose, and 
 repeated Jer. 12:5, "If thou hast run with the footmen, and they 
 have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses ? and 
 if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, 
 then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan ?" He said, the 
 Lord had sent him from New Hampshire to this meeting, and giv- 
 en him a witness that he should here see souls converted. This 
 saying made me tremble, for fear he had spoken presumptuously ; 
 for I knew the state of the church, and of the people in this place ; 
 and it was such that it seemed impossible sinners should be con- 
 verted. But when he began to describe the " swelling of Jordan,* 
 his soul was led into the sanctuary of God — ^he saw the end of the 
 wicked. The place became awful, and the scene surpassed de- 
 scription. Every eye was fixed on the speaker, till unnumbered 
 faces were bathed in tears, and many frames convulsed, while 
 touching groans burst from sinners' hearts, " and all around seemed 
 like the judgment." My feelings were so powerfully affected, that 
 I queried whether I should lose my breath or live through the 
 scene. Many sinners were awakened — wept for their transgress- 
 
226 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ions, and we now expected to see souls converted. On Monday, 
 the meeting of business detained me from the meetings of worship 
 till the Conference adjourned in the evening. On entering the 
 meeting, I found that many were on their knees praying earnestly. 
 They continued wrestling with the Lord, till five were brought to 
 rejoice. The meeting closed at two o'clock in the morning. Next 
 day, worship was attended ; and in the evening more than thirty 
 came forward for prayer. The exercises continued till midnight, 
 and two or three professed to find peace in believing. On Wed- 
 nesday two sermons were preached, and the power of God attend- 
 ed them. One of the converts, a young woman, was so filled with 
 the Spirit of the Lord, that her strength failed, and she remained 
 nearly motionless through the meeting. One of her brothers was 
 angry and took her away. In the evening the Conference closed. 
 
 The business of the Conference was conducted with great una- 
 nimity ; and although every part of the connexion was here rep- 
 resented by delegates — ^many subjects considered, and much busi- 
 ness transacted, yet the greatest point of difference that appeared, 
 was, " whether a private labor, according to Matt. 18:15,16,17, 
 should be taken with an offending brother whose crime has been 
 committed pubhcly, or whether he should be immediately called to 
 an account by the church." A large majority of the Conference 
 decided in favor of the latter position. 
 
 On Thursday morning, the young man who took his sister from 
 the meeting the day before, kneeled for prayer ; and in the even- 
 ing meeting, the number of the anxious increased to nearly forty. 
 We continued our stay in Spafford nearly a month, attended meet- 
 ings day and night, and enjoyed many blessed seasons. The num- 
 ber of converts increased to about forty, and I enjoyed the privi- 
 lege of baptizing eleven. In this time I preached in several oth- 
 er towns. In Sempronius a revival commenced, and a number 
 were converted. In one meeting that I attended, some of the " ba- 
 ser sort" raised an opposition — threw down candles — cast sticks in- 
 to the assembly — ^threw a large ball of mud at me while I was 
 speaking — cut harnesses, &c. 
 
 On Sabbath, Nov. 22, 1829, 1 had the privilege of baptizing my 
 companion. As some circumstances attending her conversion were 
 rather remarkable, I have thought a short sketch of her religious 
 experience introduced here, might not be altogether unacceptable 
 to the reader, and I have hoped might be instrumental of good to 
 some poor soul that may have fallen into a like situation. 
 
 She was the eldest daughter of Capt. Daniel Turner, formerly 
 of Arlington, Vt., now of Zorra, Upper Canada. Till the age of 
 eighteen years, she resided mostly with her parents in Arlington, 
 and attended school. She was taught to respect religion, and usu- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 227 
 
 ally attended public worship with the Episcopalian church. After 
 her parents removed to Canada, she spent nearly three years teach- 
 ing school in Oxford. In March, 1829, a little before she was 
 twenty-two years old, she was first brought seriously to feel her 
 need of the Savior. It was deeply impressed on her mind, that if 
 she did not immediately turn to God, she should be cast off forev- 
 er. Then she resolved to seek the Lord, and sighed for her neg- 
 lect of the Savior. Her sorrow increased till she felt constrained 
 to abandon her usual studies, and devote her whole time to read- 
 ing the Bible, to meditation, and prayer. In about two weeks, 
 while reading a sermon on the sufferings of Christ, she thought she 
 could and would believe in the Son of God ; — she thought she did 
 believe, and her burden left her. For a day she rejoiced, and in- 
 dulged the hope that God had forgiven her all. But the next day, 
 while reading the Scripture, " We know that we have passed from 
 death unto life, because we love the brethren," she thought her ev- 
 idence was not clear, and that the change in her attachment to 
 Christians was not such as they had experienced. So she resolv- 
 ed to renew her supplications as a penitent, lost sinner. She has 
 since related her exercises on this occasion, as follows : 
 
 " Now, alas ! I could not feel a sense of my sin. I labored for 
 it, but it could not be obtained. I tried to hope, but my spirit 
 sunk, and I despaired. Every thing confirmed me in the belief, 
 that there was no mercy for me. I regretted ray existence — en- 
 vied the idiot — and would have gladly exchanged places with the 
 reptiles — or plunged into non-existence. My food became loath- 
 some, my sleep departed, and often when I took a drink of water, 
 I thought I should soon be with the rich man in hell, where I could 
 not obtain even one drop. AVhole nights were sometimes spent in 
 prayer, without any relief — my flesh wasted away, and I drew near 
 the grave. My friends looked on me and wept. I could not com- 
 fort them, for I was comfortless myself. Then I said, my life is 
 useless, and I am a cause of grief to all that are dear to me." 
 
 Her parents, alarmed on account of her gloomy state, invited 
 ministers of different denominations to converse with her, hoping it 
 might be instrumental of her gaining some consolation. But all 
 seemed to be in vain. Deep sorrow was depicted on her counte- 
 nance, and she appeared extremely disconsolate. In conversation 
 with one who visited her, she said, " I have not seen the magnitude 
 of my sins in neglecting the Savior ; and now my heart is not sus- 
 ceptible of penitence. I think there is no mercy for me; not be- 
 cause God is a respecter of persons, or his grace insufficient, but 
 because I have refused his mercy. I try to pray ; my lips speak, 
 but my heart will not draw near to God. Every effort seems to 
 be useless, and all my former joys are fled. Still, I know it is not 
 
228 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the love of the world that prevents me from coming to Christ ; for 
 could I have a thousand worlds by turning my hand over, I am 
 confident I should not do it ; yet if 1 could obtain an interest in 
 Christ by passing through the pangs of death ten thousand times, 
 I would joyfully submit to these terms. But, alas ! I believe there 
 are but few days for me on earth ; and while I have them I am 
 constantly reminded of their short duration. These reflections, at 
 times, so affect me, that I tremble, and my strength fails." While 
 making these statements, she wept profusely, and all her emotions 
 seemed to exhibit a state of confirmed despair. 
 
 Upon this account of her state, the following Scriptures were re- 
 cited to her : " Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy la- 
 den, and I will give you rest." " Look unto me and be ye saved, 
 all the ends of the earth." " Thou shalt find him, if thou seek him 
 with all thy heart and with all thy soul." " In the last day, that 
 great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying. If any man thirst, 
 let him come unto me, and drink." " Him that cometh to me I will 
 in no wise cast out." " But," said she, " these promises cannot ap- 
 ply to me. To come to God, we must have faith : * whatsoever is 
 not of faith is sin.' " She was then exhorted to pray for faith. She 
 replied, " I cannot pray acceptably ; to pray with lips only is mock- 
 ery. Once I might have prayed — but now my heart will not feel 
 i — it cannot feel — and how can I come to a holy God ?" She 
 was answered, " Come repenting." " I cannot repent," she replied, 
 " genuine repentance is a deep sorrow for sin. True, I regret my 
 neglect of God, and feel in some measure the miseries of sin. And 
 the damned in hell may do this ; may feel as much, and more ; but 
 what does this avail them ? surely, no more than it does me. I 
 might have repented, if I would have improved my day ; but now 
 I am only reminded that my probation is concluded, that after a 
 few solitary days, I must lie down in eternal sorrow." * But,' it 
 was replied, ' God is long-suffering — not willing that any should 
 perish ;' and " his tender mercies are over all the works of 
 his hands." She answered, " True, and this increases my guilt ; 
 for I have rejected his long-suffering, and trodden upon his tender 
 mercy. And I am now justly condemned, and the throne of God 
 will be forever clear in my eternal damnation." All the Scripture 
 promises suited to her case, and all endeavors to apply them, she 
 would either evade by argument, or by saying, that she felt they 
 could not apply to one in her situation. She said, " I have tried 
 to hope, but it is vain — it is deeply impressed on my mind, that 
 nothing remains for me, but to " go away into everlasting punish- 
 ment.' Yet I cannot murmur against God. My feelings are 
 changed ; I am a stranger to the former reflections of my mind ; 
 indifferent to my former pursuits, and I loathe the gayety of the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 229 
 
 world. The months I spent in useless needle-work, witness against 
 me, and I am reminded that I have done worse than to waste them 
 for nought. Had I spent that time seeking the Lord, I might now 
 have been happy." 
 
 It was remarked to her, that if she ever found peace, it would 
 be in prayer ; that the Lord had answered the prayers of wicked 
 men and of devils, Mark 5:12, 13 — 17; and, much more, would 
 he answer the prayers of those who soitow for their sins and for- 
 sake them. Then it was proposed to her to kneel and pray three 
 times a day for a year. She declined, saying it would be of no 
 use. But after some reflection, concluding it could do no harm, 
 she made the covenant. Ten days after this, she attended the con- 
 ference of the Free-will and the Free Communion Baptists in Ox- 
 ford ; and several friends spent a night in prayer with her — still 
 she found no relief, and the next day her distress increased. She 
 observed, " If so many prayers of the saints in my behalf, gain no 
 a,ccess, the cause must be, that my doom is unalterably fixed." The 
 state of her mind continued about the same for several months, as 
 appears by the following extracts from her letters : 
 
 July 30, 1829, she writes : — " Still it appears to me, the door of 
 mercy is forever and justly closed against me ; for God has called, 
 ^nd I have refused ; he stretched out his arm, and I would not re- 
 gard. And what am I, that I have dared to refuse obedi- 
 ence, and to rebel against an almighty God, who had power 
 any moment to sink me into an abyss of wo and misery ! But, 
 instead of this deserved doom, his sparing mercies have followed 
 me, and temporal blessings have been bestowed with a liberal hand. 
 I review these mercies, and at times indulge the vain hope that 
 they will lead me to love and place an unbounded confidence in 
 their divine Author. But, O the depravity of my heart ! The 
 thought that happiness has forever fled my bosom, makes me at 
 times almost indifferent to my fate. Yet I am in the hands of God, 
 and with him all things are possible. My sister appears to be se- 
 rious ; she arose in meeting two days since and expressed a deter- 
 mination to seek the Lord. She is two years younger than my- 
 self ; and, did I possess millions of worlds, I would joyfully give 
 them up, if I could by that means recall two years of my life. 
 But, alas ! vain wish ! Why do I spend a single thought on that 
 which cannot be, when soon I may have an eternity to reflect 
 in!" 
 
 Aug. 20, she writes: — "What infatuation, what fatal mad- 
 ness has deceived me, and caused me to treat the mercies of Heav- 
 en with such neglect and indifference ! What has the Lord not 
 done for me, that would have been likely to inspire my soul with 
 gratitude and love, and secure my obedience ? Often does my 
 20 
 
230 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 heart recur to the scenes of childhood, when I fondly pictured to 
 myself and my heart glowed in contemplating what I then believ- 
 ed to be the virtuous principles that would be engraven on ray 
 soul, and the usefulness that would mark my future life. But when 
 I look back for these fruits of piety, what do I find in their stead ? 
 I am led to exclaim, ' wretched ingrate that I have been !' O the 
 deceitfulness of sin ! Justly may it call for the vengeance of a 
 holy God. 
 
 " I mentioned in my former communication, that my sister was 
 serious. She has found comfort, and gone forward in the ordi- 
 nance of baptism. I walked with her to the water, but could go no 
 further. It appeared to me, that we should soon be separated for 
 a long eternity ; — she to be a partaker of the glorious rest provid- 
 ed for the children of God, while, alas ! I should have my portion 
 with unbelievers. * O that it were not forever P The certain 
 conviction that this must be my fate, if I die in my present condi- 
 tion, causes me to refer my hopeless case to Him, who alone can 
 cleanse my soul from all its impurities. But I am sensible that my 
 prayers want that quality, which alone can render them accepta- 
 ble ; for when asking, it appears to me, I am requesting that which 
 will never be granted ; that I am pleading Him to do more for me 
 than He ever did for any one in my situation, or more than He has 
 promised to do. This thought rests on my mind with such weight 
 that all the arguments I can urge will in no manner affect it. 
 Again, at times, when I reflect on His power, and that He is not 
 willing any should perish, I think I may possibly experience 
 his salvation. But no sooner do I recollect my situation, than this 
 also, vanishes. Sometimes I say within myself, ' I am in His 
 hands, and will wholly resign myself to Him ;' but I can no long- 
 •er do as I would. My soul is in possession of the powers of dark- 
 ness, and it is an Almighty arm alone which can rescue me. The 
 grave will soon be my bed ; and, were I prepared, I could this mo- 
 ment greet death as a welcome friend. But while life shall be 
 spared, I will strive to seek the Lord." 
 
 During the summer the food she allowed herself to support na- 
 ture was reduced to almost nothing, and her sleep, on an average, 
 to about two hours in twenty-four. Her health dechned till she 
 was reduced to a mere skeleton, and apparently stood on the brink 
 of the grave. Not a smile cheered her countenance ; much of her 
 time was spent in weeping, and her friends mourned for her as for 
 one that was dead. 
 
 This was the situation of her mind, both at the commencement 
 of our acquaintance, and at the time of our marriage. Yet, I be- 
 lieved the Lord by his Holy Spirit had shown me that he de- 
 signed this visitation of his stern justice to prepare her for his 
 
DAVID MARKS. 231 
 
 service. In these circumstances, our engagement for life was at- 
 tended with much solemnity and weeping. And I should have 
 preferred still deeper mourning on this occasion, rather than to 
 have entered into the marriage covenant with that inexcusable van- 
 ity and trifling, which, too often, at such times, corrupt men, and of- 
 fend God. After our marriage, she still continued in her despair- 
 ing state, and passed much of her time in bitter weeping. My faith, 
 that she would yet be brought to rejoice in the Lord, seemed to 
 give her a little hope ; but, from her own feelings, she still judged 
 her case to be hopeless ; and remarked, that she thought I should 
 have to bear her afflictions but a few days, and then, with her, all 
 would be lost. Our days passed in mourning, and much of our 
 time was spent in prayer. 
 
 On our arrival at Spafford to attend the General Conference, a 
 preacher, who was my friend, on becoming acquainted with the 
 gloomy state of my companion, said to me, " I am surprised that 
 you have married a person in her state of mind — she cannot live 
 long in this situation, and I think it probable her despair will end 
 in insanity." I replied, ' I am aware that many spirits have gone 
 out into the world, and that often man is deceived. Yet, I know, 
 if God ever spoke by me, I shall yet see her happy in the Lord.' 
 In the evening, on Monday, Elder Place begged a dismission from 
 business, that he might go to the assembly of worship ; " For," said 
 he, " I have a message from the Lord." Soon after entering the 
 meeting, he addressed my companion, and said to her, " I have a 
 message from God to you ;" — then told her, he knew in God 
 there was mercy for her, exhorted her not to despair, and said, he 
 knew the Lord never gave his children, in behalf of one whose case 
 was hopeless, such a travail of soul as he felt for her. After speak- 
 ing to her case about half an hour, he exhorted her to kneel in 
 presence of the assembly and pray for mercy. She did — a ray of 
 hope pierced her direful gloom. The chains which for seven 
 long months had bound her mind, now gave way ; and she began 
 to believe that the Lord would grant her the joys of his salvation. 
 The cries, " Lord, have mercy !" " God be merciful to me a sin- 
 ner !" were now heard in every part of the assembly. About this 
 time, the members of Conference adjourned their business and re- 
 paired to the house of worship. I found my companion rejoicing 
 m the work of the Lord, though she hardly dared to think she had 
 found any comfort that would be permanent. But from the time 
 of the Conference, her faith, hope, and joy gradually increased, till 
 she gained victory over her desponding state of mind. 
 
 On Sabbath, Nov. 22, she related her experience, and was re- 
 ceived by the church at Canandaigua. After sermon, we retired 
 to the shore of the lake, where she was baptized. For this oppor- 
 
X0S MEMOIRS OF 
 
 tunity, my joy was unspeakable, and I said in my heart, as did one 
 on another occasion : " My soul doth magnify the Lord — For he 
 that is mighty hath done to me great things ; and holy is his name.'^ 
 She was now a help in my ministry and accompanied me in my 
 travels. The furnace through which she had passed for seven 
 months, appeared to have weaned her from the world, its pride, and 
 its vanity ; and she seemed to have no object or desire, except to 
 devote herself to God and his cause. If at any time, I expressed 
 sorrow for the want of any convenience of life, she would remind 
 me of the poverty our Savior endured, and say, " Is it not enough 
 that the servant he as his Lord ?" or recite some other similar Scrip- 
 ture, assuring me that she felt it a privilege, if the Lord called, to 
 suffer for his sake. She dated her experience previous to her 
 sinking in despair. This is one instance, among many that might be 
 named, in which after souls have received the pardoning grace of Gody 
 they have, in consequence of yielding to doubts, waded through the 
 waters of affliction ; for months have sighed in the deepest anguish, 
 and trembled for fear they should rest on a false hope, while they 
 would not knowingly sin for a world. Too often they are censur- 
 ed, when they ought to be treated with tenderness and encouraged 
 to persevere. They try to believe, and if there appears to be any 
 hope, they tremble, and weep, and say, " It is not for me." I have 
 observed that such persons rarely, if ever, are delivered suddenly. 
 Their light and hope generally increase gradually. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 233 
 
 CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 Particulars of my Travels and Labors from Novemher, 1829, to 
 September, 1830. 
 
 Monday, Nov. 23, we attended a meeting in the west part of 
 Middlesex, and found a revival progressing among the Methodists. 
 On a Sabbath previous, one of their preachers, as I was told, went 
 down into the water with the converts, and baptized seventeen, 
 "We attended meetings in different neighborhoods in the town. In 
 one, at Flint creek, twenty arose for prayer. A revival had just 
 commenced under the labors of Elder Wire, and two had obtained 
 a hope. I next preached in Italy, and the word was attended with 
 the power of God. Here also five or six had lately found the Sa- 
 vior ; and it was said that in an adjacent neighborhood all the 
 young people had " turned to the Lord." 
 
 After preaching in several other churches, I met the church in 
 Canandaigua in monthly meeting, on Saturday, Dec. 4 : five came for- 
 ward for prayer. On the Sabbath, we enjoyed a refreshing time. On 
 Monday evening, I rejoiced to find the work of the Lord progressing 
 in Conesus. Next day, I held two meetings in Sparta, where the- 
 Lord manifested his power. The revival that commenced under 
 the labors of Elder Fowler, immediately after he renounced Free* 
 Masonry, still continued ; and the church that he gathered in the- 
 spring, had now increased to the number of forty. Saturday and' 
 Sabbath, Dec. 10, and 11, we attended a two-days' meeting at Beth- 
 any, in which saints were happy, and sinners were awakened. The 
 Lord had lately poured out his Spirit in this place, and about thir- 
 ty had found the Savior. 
 
 The following week we attended meetings in Batavia, Byron, 
 Clarkson, and Greece ; then returned to Canandaigua. The last 
 of December, we visited a few churches of the Ontario quarterly 
 meeting, and on " New Year's day," 1830, attended a session of 
 said meeting at Galen. The week ensuing, I preached in differ- 
 ent towns, and attended the Benton quarterly meeting, at Flint 
 creek in Middlesex. Nearly sixty had been converted in this 
 place since our last visit. A school teacher was one of the first- 
 Several of his scholars, from the age of ten to fifteen, became seri- 
 ous ; and some of them retired to a wood, at the time of intermis- 
 sion, to pray for mercy — ^forgot their school till near its close, when 
 they returned happy in the Lord. Nineteen of the children had' 
 professed to be converted ; and while I heard them tell what God 
 had done for their souls, I rejoiced that the Savior had said, " Suf- 
 20* 
 
234 MEMOIRS 0F 
 
 fer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not." This was 
 also a day of good tidings from other churches. During the meet- 
 ing on the Sabbath, a woman of about three score years was con- 
 verted, and for the first time shouted the praises of Emmanuel. 
 
 Jan. 16 and 17, we attended the second session of the Allegany 
 quarterly meeting, held in Sparta. The revival in this town had 
 spread into Springwater, Conhocton, and Dansville. Elder Fo^v- 
 ler had lately baptized fourteen, and the number of the church 
 had increased to fifty-five. During the meeting five souls were 
 hopefully converted. This quarterly meeting was organi25ed about 
 three months before ; and, at this time, consisted of four churches, 
 containing one hundred and forty-four members, three elders and 
 two unordained preachers. The largest of these churches was in 
 the town of Independence. It was gathered by a Free Commun- 
 ion Baptist minister. He, with the church, I understood, renounc- 
 ed their belief in the ' certainty of the perseverance of the saints,' 
 and embraced the doctrine of the the * necessity of their persever- 
 ance.' They were now blessed with a revival. 
 
 Jan. 22, 24, we attended the Bethany quarterly meeting, in the 
 south part of Penfield. The reports from the churches were in- 
 teresting, and some of the preachers came in the fullness of the 
 blessing of the gospel. On the Sabbath, for want of room, meet- 
 ings were held in two places. Elder Jenkins preached to one as- 
 sembly in the forenoon, and to the other in the afternoon, with 
 great power. Unusual solemnity rested on the people, and many 
 were melted into tears. 
 
 Monday morning, a young man who was teaching a dancing 
 school, and a professed Universalist, begged some of the preach- 
 ers to pray for him. He requested a prayer meeting to be ap- 
 pointed in the evening on his account ; and though it was very 
 stormy, a large house was crowded with people. Thirteen kneel- 
 ed for prayer, and one or two were brought to praise the Lord. 
 The next evening of my meeting, thirty came forward for prayer, 
 and two were brought into liberty. Leaving Penfield, we return- 
 ed to Canandaigua, and held a few meetings in different towns. 
 
 In the early part of February, we journeyed to Zorra, Upper 
 Canada; and on the way held several meetings, which were re- 
 freshing. But as the sleighing left us suddenly, after a very short 
 stay with our relatives, we returned in haste ; and, on the 20th of 
 February, arrived in Penfield. Since the quarterly meeting, many 
 a proud sinner had been brought to bow at the feet of Jesus. The 
 brethren had just returned from monthly meeting ; in which they 
 said ninety-six spoke of the goodness of God, fifteen united with 
 the church, and one soul was converted. The next day, I stood in 
 a window of a large stone school-house, and spoke nearly two 
 
l)AViD MAS^S. 235 
 
 hours to about eight hundred people, half of whom stood without. 
 After this I had the privilege of baptizing three : one was a little 
 girl that experienced religion at the age of six. She had anxious- 
 ly waited for this opportunity ; and when raised out of the water, 
 exclaimed, " Glory to the Lord." In the evening we had a very 
 happy meeting ; many converts spoke, sinners confessed, and a boy 
 twelve years of age professed to find Jesus, and was so filled with 
 joy, that he only cried, " Glory — I am happy — ^glory, glory,'* &c. 
 
 After attending meetings in some other towns, we returned to 
 Canandaigua. Sabbath evening I preached in the asylum for the 
 poor of Ontario county, and enjoyed the presence of the Lord. 
 We understood the expense of this establishment was about eight 
 thousand dollars; and we were highly gratified on viewing the 
 ample provisions for the comfort of the afflicted. At this time, the 
 asylum contained nearly one hundred ; the gi*eater part of whom 
 were brought to this place through intemperance. They enjoy- 
 ed many rehgious privileges. 
 
 In the early part of March, we returned to Penfield, and found 
 the revival still spreading with great power. Seventy, as we were 
 informed, had already obtained a hope. Meetings had been attend- 
 ed every evening, and nearly every day since the quarterly meet- 
 ing. We attended an evening meeting with Elders Hannibal and 
 Straight. Many powerful exhortations were given, and several 
 came forward for prayer. The next day, I preached with unusu- 
 al liberty, and in the evening attended a conference meeting. A 
 man who had lived in sin, and in Universalism, arose, apparently 
 in the agonies of despair, and said, " I need not ask Christians to 
 pray for me — there is no mercy that can reach my case." One of 
 his daughters, who was a young convert, addressed him very af- 
 fectionately, and earnestly entreated him to look to Jesus for help ; 
 then turning to the assembly in a flood of tears, she said to the wick- 
 ed, " behold the awful consequences of sin." About forty arose 
 for prayer, and it was a time of great mourning. Almost every 
 house in the vicinity had become a house of prayer, and the work 
 was more glorious than any I had ever before witnessed. The 
 dancing master and fiddler, with their pupils, were converted to 
 God, and their ball-room was open for worship. 
 
 We were told about this time, that a boy eight years of age was 
 in a barn praying for mercy. As he arose, he looked on a horse 
 that was named ' Dick,' and with astonishment exclaimed, " Dick 
 is praising God!" He was filled with wonder ; and as he ran to tell 
 his parents, he passed the cattle, and, with increased surprise, cried 
 out, " Wliy, the cattle are praising God !" Before he reached the 
 house, he saw the geese, and seeming quite amazed, he exclaimed, 
 " And the geese are praising God too !" When he came to his 
 
236 MEMOIRS o^ 
 
 parents, he said, with great animation, " Dick is praising God, and 
 the cattle are praising God, and the geese are praising God." He 
 scarcely had finished his story, when he cast his eyes on the cat, 
 and with transport exclaimed, " Why, puss, you are praising God 
 too !" This simple exhibition of a change in the child, which he sup- 
 posed to be in the things he saw, melted the hearts of his parents, and 
 they confessed the work to be of God. This little child followed 
 his Lord in baptism. At an evening meeting, I heard him give 
 an exhortation that was extraordinary for one of his years. After 
 attending another meeting in Penfield, in which former scenes were 
 repeated, I preached in several other places ; and on Saturday, 
 March 6, attended monthly meeting with the church in Canandai- 
 gua. On the Sabbath, we had a refreshing season. 
 
 Monday, March 8, we started with a wagon for Scriba, rode 
 thirty miles in a tedious storm of snow, and arrived at Lyons 
 late in the evening. Next day, we proceeded in a sleigh, and in the 
 evening, called on a family of professed Christians. I desired 
 something to eat. They told us they had nothing cooked, and they 
 could not accommodate us ; so we rode about eighteen miles further, 
 much of the distance on bare ground, and after midnight arrived 
 at the house of brother K. in Scriba, Mrs. K. was not a profes- 
 sor ; yet she arose with apparent gladness, and prepared us a meal. 
 The occurrences of this evening, reminded me of two sayings of 
 our Lord, and their application : " I was a hungered, and ye gave 
 me no meat." — " I was a hungered, and ye gave me meat." Here 
 I found an empty seat. The father of the family died a week be- 
 fore. He was a member of the church, and ever when I saw him 
 was much engaged in the service of the Lord. He once told me, 
 lie hoped and believed, that when his time was fulfilled, he should 
 go to his home suddenly. I was informed that he took his dinner, 
 apparently as well as usual, then suddenly fell from his chair. He 
 was taken up immediately — but he was dead. ' O Lord, may I 
 also be ready.' I held six meetings in Scriba, and found the two 
 churches in this town, and the one in New Haven, in a state of en- 
 gagedness ; and, though destitute of an administrator, they appear- 
 ed to maintain gospel order. On Monday, March 15, we left Scri- 
 ba, and after a tedious journey, arrived at Canandaigua. 
 
 During the week following, I journeyed one hundred and fifty 
 miles, and suffered much from a tedious storm. Sabbath, March 
 28, I preached twice to a small assembly in Geneva. Next day we 
 attended a meeting in Fayette, and tarried at the house of Mr. 
 Whitmer. Here we saw two or three of his sons, and others to 
 the number of eight, who said they were witnesses of a certain 
 book just published, called the " Golden Bihh^^ or " Booh of Mor- 
 mon^^ They affirmed, that an angel had showed them certain plates 
 
DAYID MARKd. 237 
 
 of metal, having the appearance of gold, that were dug out of the 
 ground by one Joseph Smith; that on these plates was writ- 
 ten a history of the ten tribes of Israel which were lost, and reve- 
 lations to different prophets that arose among them. They 
 stated the writing could be read by no person, except by the said 
 Smith ; and, that the Lord had inspired him to translate and pub- 
 lish the book, — that none, but twelve chosen witnesses, had been 
 allowed to see these plates, and that now they were " hid up unto 
 the Lord." They further stated, that twelve apostles were to be 
 appointed, who would soon confirm their mission by miracles — and, 
 that if any one read their bible and did not believe, they would 
 be given up and lost forever. These eight were in company with 
 Smith and three others. A copy right was secured by Smith in 
 his own name. The book contains about six hundred octavo pages 
 of small print. Five thousand copies were published — and they 
 said the angel told Smith to sell the book at a price which was one 
 dollar and eight cents per copy more than the cost, that they 
 " might have the temporal profit, as well as the spiritual." They 
 urged me to purchase a copy, and finally offered me one for $1,25. 
 " But," said I, " I understood you to say the angel told you to sell 
 it for $1,75. They replied, " The angel said we might sell it for 
 that sum, but did not say we should not sell it for any less." 
 
 When I was in Ohio, I had quite a curiosity to know the origin 
 of the numerous mounds and remains of ancient fortifications that 
 abound in that section of the country ; but could not find that any- 
 thing satisfactory was known on the subject. Having been told, 
 that the * Book of Mormon' gave a history of them and of their au- 
 thors, some desire was created in my mind to read their story, but 
 I could not, in good conscience, purchase a copy lest I should sup- 
 port a deception ; so they lent me one, and I read two hundred and 
 fifty pages ; but was greatly disappointed in the style and interest 
 of the work. So far from approaching the sublimity of the in- 
 spired writers, they would bear no comparison with the Apocry- 
 pha, or the Alcoran. Indeed the style is so insipid, and the work 
 so filled with manifest imposture, that I could feel no interest in a 
 further perusal. It contained several extracts from the Scriptures ; 
 and, with a little variation, Christ's sermon on the mount. From 
 all the circumstances, I thought it probably had been written orig- 
 inally by an infidel, to see how much he could impose on the cre- 
 dulity of men, and to get money. Yet, I expected they would 
 make converts ; for there are many people who are fond of new 
 things ; and there is scarcely any system so absurd as to obtain no 
 advocates. Shortly after this, I understood that one of the " wit- 
 nesses'' baptized Smith, and then Smith baptized others. If one 
 believed the book he was considered a fit subject for baptism. 
 
238 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 On reviewing this pretended revelation, I was forcibly struck 
 with the contrast between the introduction of the gospel of Christ, 
 and that of the ' Book of Mormon.' The former came down from 
 heaven ; the latter is said to have been dug out of the earth. The 
 gospel w^as first preached openly with power, in the sight of all 
 men, and written afterwards ; the ' Book of Mormon' was first 
 written, secretly, and out of sight of all men, except twelve, 
 and preached afterwards. None of the works of Christ and the 
 apostles were in secret, but open to the examination of all ; the or- 
 igin of this book is hid in the dark. The gospel of Christ was 
 confirmed by unnumbered miracles, wrought in the most public 
 manner ; the ' Book of Mormon' is not confirmed by any miracles, 
 but its authority rests on the testimony of twelve men whom we 
 do not know. The gospel of Christ presented to its apostles no 
 temporal gain, but the loss of all things ; the ' Book of Mormon' 
 has a copy right secured, that its witnesses may " have the temporal 
 profit'^ — so men cannot tell that this ^'•profiC^ is not what induces 
 them to bear such witness. The gospel is confirmed by a thous- 
 and prophecies that preceded, and pointed to it, and are still dai- 
 ly fulfilling ; but we know not that any prophecy pointed to the 
 * Book of Mormon.' The Bible is a book of perfect harmony, and 
 unrivalled sublimity ; the ' Book of Mormon' is full of absurdity, and 
 too dull to charm the soul. 
 
 In the early part of April I held a few meetings in towns east- 
 ward, and attended a session of the Ontario quarterly meeting in 
 Conquest. It appeared to be a time of mourning among the 
 churches ; yet we enjoyed some good from the Lord. Monday, 
 April 19, I preached in Macedon; signs of a revival appeared, 
 and several animated exhortations were given. Next day, I 
 preached in Perinton, near Penfield. Since our visit six weeks 
 before, the glorious work had spread into adjacent towns, and it 
 was now thought that one hundred and fifty had been converted. 
 Eld. Parker, who had labored constantly in the revival, had baptized 
 sixty, and more than seventy had been added to the church. The 
 land of darkness had truly seen a great light, and the shadow of 
 death had fled away. Leaving Penfield, we visited several towns 
 west of Rochester. 
 
 In the latter part of April, on our way to the Allegany quarter- 
 ly meeting, we called at the house of Mr. Markham in Dansville, 
 where, on the 4th of January previous, a shocking murder was 
 committed. Mrs. Markham stated to us these particulars : — A 
 well dressed stranger, whose name was Millard, told a man named 
 Smith, who was at work for Mr. Markham, to take a span of 
 horses and carry him to Howard. Smith refused, and Millard be- 
 gan to beat him. Smith returned the blows for a minute, then 
 
DAVID MARKS. 239 
 
 took an axe for his defence, and ran into the house. Millard 
 knocked him down with a club, then seized the axe, and with one 
 blow chopped off his head ! Mrs. M. being alone with her chil- 
 dren, fled through a back window. Millard split open the body of 
 Smith — took up his head by the ear, and his tongue fell out — then 
 he pursued Mrs* M., and when he had nearly overtaken her, sev- 
 eral men came to her assistance, pursued Millard two hours, and 
 took him. Then he exclaimed, " Lord, what have I done ! Is 
 there a Mason here ?" One present replied that he was a Mason, 
 but his crime was " too greaf for mercy to be expected on that 
 ground.* Mrs. M. was greatly affected while she related the cir- 
 cumstances ! and it appeared that this scene had been instrumen- 
 tal of her conversion to God. 
 
 Friday, April 30, 1830, the Allegany quarterly meeting opened 
 in Burns, and we enjoyed a heavenly season. A small church 
 had been lately gathered in this town by Elder B. formerly a min- 
 ister of the Calvinistic Baptists, who had lately united with the 
 quarterly meeting.f On the Sabbath the assembly was large, and 
 sermons were preached by brother Fowler and myself. In the 
 latter part of the exercises, great solemnity, and a deep state of 
 feeling pervaded the congregation, and several came forward for 
 prayer. A few weeks afterwards, I understood that a number had 
 been converted in this vicinity. On Monday I preached with great 
 liberty in Dansville, and six or eight arose for prayer. I held 
 meetings in Groveland and Conesus ; and on Friday, May 7, at- 
 tended the Benton quarterly meeting at Canandaigua. The re- 
 ports from the churches were more interesting than at any former 
 meeting. The greater part of them were enjoying revivals ; and 
 since the last quarterly meeting, their number of members had in- 
 creased nearly one quarter. This was truly a day of good tidings ; 
 gladness filled our hearts, and we did not " hold our peace." All 
 glory to God and the Lamb. May the good work increase, till 
 " the kingdoms of the world become the kingdom of our Lord and 
 
 * A man that was present a few minutes after he was taken, told me that Millard 
 appeared rational till two Masons whispered with him, and that then he affected 
 to be insane. Millard was not hung. I understood the jury supposed him to have been 
 deranged. Dr. D told me that the foreman of the jury was a royal arch Ma- 
 son. * * * * 
 
 t Elder B. was a Calvinistic Baptist for many years. I was informed that he organ- 
 ized the first Baptist church in Rochester, N. Y. ; also, that he had gathered fifteen oth- 
 er churches, and baptized about eight hundred in that denomination. Elder B. told me 
 the following particulars concerning his change of sentiments. He asserted in a ser- 
 mon, with much emphasis, that "All things whatsoever were for the glory of God." 
 On the Sabbath after, seeing two small boys, engaged in play, he reproved them for vie- 
 lating the Sabbath. One of them said, "Mr. B. is not this one of the '■all thinss'' which 
 you said last Sabbath was for the glory of God ?" This answer from the child, caused 
 him to reflect ; and he queried, ' Do I preach a doctrine that strengthens the wicked ?" 
 Then, after a strict examination of the Scriptures, he embraced the doctrine of free 
 grace, free-will, free communion, &c. &c. 
 
240 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 his Christ." On the Sabbath, Elder Wire preached to the crowd- 
 ed assembly with power. Many interesting reports of revivals 
 were then read, or given verbally. 
 
 Monday morning. May 10, 1830, was to me a solemn time. My 
 good friend, brother T. Beebe, with whom I had ever found a home 
 from my first coming to Canandaigua, having sold his farm, re- 
 moved this day to Hopewell, ten miles from this vicinity. His 
 house had been to me like that of a father, and many and great 
 had been the favors I had received. The church and the people 
 generally in the vicinity, felt their loss on his removal; for he and 
 his companion had been a father and mother in Zion ; and from 
 their house the needy had never been sent empty away. ' O may 
 their kindness be rewarded, and they " find mercy of the Lord in 
 that day." ' 
 
 On this day, I received a deed of ten acres of land, for which 
 the Lord has enabled me to pay a part ; and, if he open the way, 
 I design to build a house thereon for my home. During the four 
 days following I preached with freedom in Hopewell and Mace- 
 don, and twice in Walworth. In Macedon, twelve came forward 
 for prayer, and the prospect of a revival seemed io be increasing. 
 In Walworth, three or four had been converted, and ten came for- 
 ward for prayer. 
 
 On Saturday we attended the monthly meeting of the church in 
 Perinton and Penfield. Nearly one hundred spoke of the dealings 
 of God with their souls, and six were received for baptism. The 
 revival was still progressing. Elder Parker told me that ninety- 
 six had been added to the church within three months ; and it was 
 judged that the number of converts had increased to two hundred ; 
 also, that among all the denominations in Penfield, it was believed 
 that four hundred had been converted within six months. On the 
 Sabbath, May 16, I preached to the church in North Penfield. 
 Here also a revival was spreading, and brother H. Whitcher was 
 laboring in the work. Nearly forty had professed to be converted. 
 At 4 o'clock, P. M., we returned to the south part of the town, 
 where it was thought one thousand people assembled in the early 
 part of the day. They had listened to a sermon from Elder Par- 
 ker, and witnessed the baptism of the six candidates ; and the 
 greater part of them remained while about one hundred and twen- 
 ty or thirty communicants came to the table of the Lord. When 
 we arrived, the assembly were seated or standing on a green in the 
 open air, and nearly all the communicants were engaged in wash- 
 ing each other's feet. The day was pleasant, the earth was array- 
 ed in beautiful green, and the blossoms * sent forth a goodly smell.* 
 We looked with pleasure on the scenery that surrounded us, heard 
 the forest songsters praise their Creator ; but with rapturous de- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 241 
 
 light we gazed on the redeemed of the Lord, and heard the con- 
 verts sing with a melody that seemed to reach the heavens. Many 
 wept, while they saw the gay youth of Penfield, like their divine 
 Master, washing the saints' feet. As the scene closed, a respecta- 
 ble physician and his wife, remarked to us with tears, that, though 
 they had not believed in washing feet, it was attended with as much 
 solemnity as the communion ; and, that when the converts came to 
 this service, they almost wished to engage with them. Some who 
 had hitherto spiritualized the words of Christ, " If I then, your 
 Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash 
 one another's feet," were here convinced that the Lord meant as 
 he said. As the time of my appointment at 5 o'clock, P. M., was 
 near, the people concluded to stay without refreshment ; and I com- 
 menced preaching immediately, enjoyed freedom, and a multitude 
 were happy in God : so was I. ' Hallelujah to the Lamb !' I 
 hope to sing his praise when time shall be no more. 
 
 On Monday I preached in Rochester, and on "Wednesday in 
 Parma, from Gal. 6:7 : " Be not deceived" Sfc. The Lord 
 gave me a great discovery of the deception that is in the world. It 
 appeared that all the sin which has filled the world with wo, and 
 drenched the earth with blood, has come through deception. All 
 the false doctrine, and unscriptural practices, which corrupt the 
 church, are supported by deception. Therefore, Christians ought 
 to be honest and sincere ; free from the works of darkness, that 
 cannot bear the light ; for if we use deception, we act like Satan 
 the deceiver. On Thursday we attended a meeting in Byron. 
 Some had lately been converted, and others were almost persuad- 
 ed to be Christians. 
 
 Friday, May 21, we attended the Bethany quarterly meeting 
 near Batavia village. A larger number of brethren assembled 
 than I had ever seen west of the Connecticut river. A council 
 was appointed to ordain brother Whitcher. Next morning at an 
 early hour, the meeting was opened by the deaf and dumb brother, 
 who has been named, [p. 39.] His inarticulate sounds— his 
 flood of tears — and his earnest gestures, greatly affected the assem- 
 bly, and the hardest hearts appeared to feel. The exercises through 
 the day, and the refreshing reports of revivals and additions, were 
 very interesting. Four sermons were preached on the Sabbath, 
 and much tenderness observed among the people. At the close, 
 some came forward for prayer, and such as were resolved to make 
 their way from earth to heaven were invited to manifest it by ris- 
 ing. More than one thousand arose— -on which, the deaf and dumb 
 brother cried out in his mournful accents, and a deep impression 
 was made on the assembly. During this meeting, we tarried at the 
 house of brother Gibbs, in Batavia village. His wife was lately 
 
242 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 a member of the Presbyterian churcli in this place, and much es- 
 teemed by all. "We had understood, that she had ' relieved the af- 
 flicted,' and prayed at almost every sick bed in the vicinity, and 
 that her faith and good works were spoken of by thousands. She 
 was often, contrary to their usual custom, suffered to speak in their 
 meetings, and sometimes in their assembly on the Sabbath. But, 
 to the surprise of her brethren, she told them she had been con- 
 vinced by the word and Spirit of the Lord God, that it was her 
 duty to be baptized. She received a dismission, united with the 
 Free-will Baptists, and was baptized in the presence of a large 
 assembly. This person, I was informed, was the first that had 
 been immersed in this village, though it had been built forty years. 
 She told us that for seven years she had set apart every Friday, 
 to fast and pray for the conversion of her family. Few Christians 
 are more constant in prayer than this woman ; and since she was 
 baptized, her husband and five or six of her children have been 
 hopefully converted. 
 
 After the quarterly meeting, I preached in Elba and Royalton ; 
 then went into Upper Canada, attended a meeting at Stony Creek, 
 and on the Sabbath preached in Oxford. We met an affectionate 
 reception from our friends, and the next day held a meeting in Zorra. 
 On Tuesday I preached in a new settlement to forty or fifty peo- 
 ple who were very serious, and one requested prayers. I preach- 
 ed thrice in Oxford ; and on Sabbath morning, June 6, started with 
 Elder Harris and another brother, for Norwich. After passing 
 eighteen miles, of which eight miles were in a foot-path, through a 
 forest, we reached the place at 10 o'clock. Being wet and fatigued, 
 I thought I should not speak much over half an hour ; but the 
 Spirit rested on the assembly, and I spoke an hour and a half. In 
 the afternoon, we walked eight miles to the lower part of the town ; 
 the way being difficult, we arrived an hour past the time. The 
 meeting was large and powerful. Two or three backsliders con- 
 fessed, and some desired prayer. Monday, we passed through a 
 ten mile wood, returned to Oxford, and held a meeting. Next day 
 I preached in Nissouri with considerable freedom. Wednesday I 
 started Math Elder Harris and others, for the annual conference of 
 the Free Communion Baptists. 
 
 Friday, June 11, the annual conference commenced in this town. 
 Brother Straight and myself had been appointed by the Holland 
 Purchase yearly meeting to attend this conference and labor for a 
 union. The subject was introduced, and dismissed, without any 
 new decision. After the meeting of business, I preached with 
 some freedom. Saturday morning, a sermon was preached by El- 
 der Harris : and in the afternoon, their covenant and articles of 
 faith were read. A woman under conviction, who had walked 
 
DAVID MARKS. 243 
 
 more than twenty miles to this meeting, was relieved of her bur- 
 den, and rejoiced in the Lord. In the evening I preached in Dun- 
 wich. Several converts and females were present, who had walk- 
 ed thirty miles. I have often been affected at the pains the poor 
 people in Canada take to attend meetings, and at their gladness to 
 hear the word of the Lord. On the Sabbath two sermons were 
 delivered, and the communion administered. Sabbath evening, 
 with the Free-will Baptist church in the east part of Southwold, 
 I enjoyed a blessed season, which continued till midnight. 
 
 Monday, I preached at St. Thomas, and felt the power of the 
 Lord. Tuesday we went to London, where I preached with free- 
 dom. The state of our churches in Canada was nearly the same as a 
 year before. A few had been added in London. Brother Huck- 
 ins appeared humble and engaged. He had gathered a small 
 church in a place called Long Woods, which was enjoying a revi- 
 val. 
 
 I held meetings again in Zorra, Nissouri, and Oxford ; and on 
 Thursday, June 24, we bade our relatives farewell, and returning 
 to New York, attended a few meetings by the way. July 2, we 
 ari'ived at North Penfield. Several had been converted since our 
 last visit, and eighteen added to the church. "We attended the On- 
 tario quarterly meeting, held the 3d and 4th. On the Sabbath, 
 during a discourse, the power of the Lord fell on a proud young 
 man, who had been appointed to manage a ball the next day. He 
 became much distressed, went a little distance from the assembly 
 into the wood, and cried aloud for mercy. He found comfort soon 
 after, and was baptized. After returning to Canandaigua, we held 
 four meetings, and then started for the south. Between the 12th 
 and 18th of July, I preached in Jerusalem, in Benton, four time 
 in Milo, and once in Barrington. Some of these meetings were 
 blessed ; and at the latter, I rejoiced to find a revival. 
 
 Sabbath, July 18, I preached twice in Catlin; and Elder Stid, 
 who attended with me, baptized six. Here the wilderness had be- 
 come a ' fruitful field ;' in a short time many had been converted, 
 and more than fifty baptized and added to the church. Monday 
 and Tuesday, I preached in Jersey and at Mount Washington, and 
 enjoyed solemn seasons. For several days I had been indisposed, 
 and on Wednesday was able to ride only to Poultney, where I was 
 confined till the next Sabbath. We were mostly at the house of 
 Dr. Dean, whose skilful services, at this and several other times, 
 were rendered gratis. In consequence of this illness, I disap- 
 pointed sixteen congregations, four of which were supplied by a 
 preacher, whom I engaged to attend in my stead. 
 
 Sabbath, July 25, I preached twice in Poultney, and on Tuesday 
 arrived at Canandaigua. Being still unwell, I stopped five or six 
 
244 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 days, held three or four meetings, and baptized one . In the next 
 week, I attended the Benton quarterly meeting, at West River -in 
 Middlesex. The reports of the churches were interesting. Tues- 
 day, Aug. 10, we left Canandaigua, and in four days held meetings 
 in Bristol, Richmond, and Sheldon, and visited my brother Ives, 
 in Hamburg. He accompanied us to Boston, N. Y. where we 
 spent the Sabbath and held two meetings. My brother here in- 
 formed us that he had obtained a hope in Christ, and publicly con- 
 fessed it for the first time. He was an apprentice, separated from 
 his acquaintance, and suffered almost constantly from a lameness ; 
 yet he appeared resigned, and said he was happy in saying, " Thy 
 will he doner On our arrival at Batavia, we met Elders Brown, 
 Jenkins, and Straight, with an assembly coming out of the court 
 house, where they had just organized a church of eleven members. 
 A revival was progressing under the labors of brother Straight, 
 which, we understood, was the first that had ever been in this vil- 
 lage. After an hour's notice, about two hundred assembled in the 
 court house, to whom I spoke with much freedom. I next held 
 meetings in Bethany and Middlebury, which were solemn and im- 
 pressive. At the latter place, I have since understood, a revival 
 followed. July 21 — 23, we attended the Bethany quarterly meet- 
 ing at Groveland. The exercises were spiritual, and some came 
 forward for prayers. 
 
 Friday, Aug. 27, 1830, we attended the Holland Purchase year- 
 ly meeting at Clarkson. The reports from the quarterly meetings 
 were unusually interesting. The general state of engagedness ap- 
 peared to have greatly increased, and a time of such revival had 
 never before been enjoyed. At this time the Allegany quarterly 
 meeting was received : — and it appeared that within the year past, 
 the number of members in the yearly meeting had increased near- 
 ly one quarter. Saturday, four -discourses Avere delivered ; on the 
 Sabbath the assembly was large, and eighteen ordained ministers 
 were present. Three excellent sermons were preached, which were 
 followed by weighty and spiritual exhortations. One of these was 
 from Elder R. Carey. He had been ill for years, yet he had come 
 seventy-five miles, by short stages, to attend this meeting. A little 
 son of his came to take care of him ; and late in the afternoon, 
 which was as soon as he was able, some brethren helped him as- 
 cend the stand, and being seated, he addressed the people. Ev- 
 ery eye was fixed on his pale face, and every ear attentive to his 
 voice. Several dropped a tear at his feeble appearance, and our 
 sympathy was increased by the reflection, that his abundant labors 
 to win souls to Christ, had increased his infirmities, and compelled 
 him to retire from the gospel field. His words were few and 
 weighty ; and on leaving the stand, he wept — as though conscious 
 
DAVID MARKS. 245 
 
 he might no more meet his brethren in yearly meeting. Many 
 were much affected. The subject of Masonry was again introduc- 
 ed; and a resolve passed, I think in the following words : " Agreed, 
 that, if anything can be proved by human testimony, it is abun- 
 dantly manifest that the institution of Free Masonry is wicked in 
 the extreme ; and we do most earnestly entreat all our brethren to 
 renounce their masonic obligations ; and have nothing to do with 
 that system.'* 
 
 CHAPTER XXIII. 
 
 My Fifth Journey to New England. 
 
 Having been appointed a delegate to the General Conference, 
 which was to meet the ensuing Oct. in R. I., I made arrangements 
 to spend the winter in New England. Monday, Sept. 6, we com- 
 menced our journey, and during the week travelled one hundred 
 and forty miles, and attended meetings in Tyre and Fabius. In 
 consequence of illness I failed of three other appointments. Sat- 
 urday and Sabbath, we attended the first session of the Norwich, 
 quarterly meeting at New Berlin. Two years and a half previous, 
 Elder Adon Aldrich came to this town and gathered the first Free- 
 will Baptist church in these parts. The quarterly meeting con- 
 tained three churches, about one hundred and twelve members, 
 two elders, and three unordained preachers. During the meeting, I 
 gave three discourses ; the brethren were engaged, and conviction 
 reached the hearts of sinners. Saturday, Sept. 18, we arrived at. 
 Arlington, Vermont, the native town of my companion, and met a. 
 kind reception from our relatives. "We attended worship with the 
 Episcopalian church on the Sabbath, and Mr. Perkins, their pas« 
 tor, invited me to preach in the afternoon. The invitation was 
 unexpected, but accepted with pleasure. 
 
 Mon. Sept. 27, we resumed our journey, and Oct. 1st arrived at 
 Burlington, Conn., where we were kindly welcomed by my uncle 
 Marks and family. Six years before, I had a sweet interview with 
 my grandfather Marks, but now his place was empty. He died of 
 apoplexy five years since. I attended three meetings in Burling- 
 ton ; and the week following we visited relatives in Newtown, 
 Danbury, New-Milford, and Southington. In Southington we 
 passed the house where my mother's parents once resided, and 
 where I spent months of my childhood j but nearly all the former 
 21* 
 
246 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 inhabitants were dead, and strangers dwelt in their place. O time, 
 what changes dost thou make ! Saturday, we visited my aunt 
 Graves in Middletown. But O what a change in this family since 
 my former visit I Elder Graves and two of his daughters had 
 fallen by the spotted fever. Next day, we attended meeting with 
 the Calvinistic Baptists. Being invited, I spoke to the people in 
 the afternoon, and felt the doctrine of the Lord distil upon me 
 ^ like the dew.' I understood the church of which Elder Graves 
 had the care severely felt the loss of their pastor, and w^ere in a 
 low state ; but as the time of Conference was near, I could not visit 
 them. 
 
 Monday morning, my aunt accompanied us a little distance to 
 the grave-yard, where Elder Graves, his parents, his two daugh- 
 ters, and a young man engaged to one of them in marriage, all lay 
 side by side. At the head of each was a large wliite marble slab 
 with appropriate inscriptions. Aunt remarked, that this lonely 
 spot seemed more like home, than her empty habitation. Thus 
 " man lieth down, and riseth not : till the heavens be no more, 
 they shall not awake, nor be raised out of their sleep'' Never 
 did I feel a deeper sense of man's mortality, than at this time. O 
 what is man ? " lie cometh forth like a flower — he fleeth also as 
 a shadow." In two days, we arrived at Greenville m Smithfield, 
 Rhode-Island ; and rejoiced to meet with many dear brethren, par- 
 ticularly Elder E. Place, whose labors had been a blessing to us at 
 the last Conference. 
 
 Thursday, Oct. 14, 1830, the General Conference commenced at 
 9 o'clock, A. M. The meeting of business continued till Saturday 
 evening. In general, much unanimity prevailed, and our hearts 
 were so united by love, that we could say, as did two disciples on 
 another occasion, " Did not our heart burn within us ?" At this 
 Conference, from the reports received, there appeared to be in the 
 denomination, seven yearly meetings, tliii'ty quarterly meetings, 
 four hundred and thirty-six churches, and three hundred and ten 
 ordained preachers. Probably some of these numbers fall short of 
 a correct enumeration. 
 
 Messengers were present from every part of the connexion, ex- 
 cept Ohio yearly meeting, from which a refreshing letter was re- 
 ceived. During the sitting of Conference, meetings of worship 
 were held at the meeting-house, except on the forenoon of Thurs- 
 day and Friday. Sabbath morning, about two thousand people 
 assembled, and, unexpectedly, I was informed that the preachers 
 thought it would be my duty to preach. I had no particular sub- 
 ject on my mind, and wished some other one to go forward ; but 
 all declined. A sense of the importance of this hour — the respon- 
 sibility of the speaker, and tlxe reflection that the aged and the 
 
DAYID MARKS. 247 
 
 learned were present, and that I was but a youth, made my spirit 
 sink within me, and it seemed as though I was less than the " dust 
 of the balance." But, as Erskine says, 
 
 "He cuts me down to build me up, 
 He empties me to fill my cup." 
 
 Second Tim. 3:16, occurred to my mind with some degree of light. 
 I thought it a suitable text for the occasion, and concluded to speak 
 from it. But while the messengers were giving a summary of the 
 revivals reported from different parts of the connexion, my text 
 went from me, and I could not recollect it. The time for speaking 
 drew near — I was empty and confused — I cried to the Lord for 
 help ; and just before I arose, the text was brought to my remem- 
 brance : ** All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is 
 yrojitahle for doctrine.'* My mind was composed, the subject 
 opened with unexpected clearness, and after some introduction, I 
 proposed — 
 
 I. To present some of the many arguments that establish the 
 divine authenticity of the Scriptures. 
 
 II. To show what doctrine the Scriptures teach. 
 
 On the first division, I argued the authenticity of the Scriptures, 
 1. From the prophecies and their fulfilment. 2. From the mira- 
 cles — whose authenticity is supported by a greater weight of testi- 
 mony than any other facts of equal antiquity. 3. From their in- 
 ternal evidences, and agreement with general history. 4. From 
 their unparalleled number of martyrs, considering the varied char- 
 acter, circumstances, and manner, in which they have suffered. 
 
 On the second proposition, I spoke, 1. Of God, his unity, and 
 attributes. 2. Of the creation of man in purity, and in the image 
 of God. 3. Of the accountability of man, and the law under which 
 he is placed. 4. Of the transgression of Adam, his fall, and its 
 effect on his posterity. 5. Of the atonement made by Christ. 
 6. Of regeneration. 7. Of the church of Christ. 8. Of its disci- 
 pline and government. 9. Of its ordinances. 10. Of persever- 
 ance. 11. Of the geneml judgment. 12. Of the final destinies of 
 all men. 
 
 It pleased the Lord to give me unusual freedom, and I spoke 
 nearly two hours. The Holy Spirit moved on the people, and 
 much of the time many wept. Several became resolved to seek 
 the Lord. Among these was a merchant at Greenville, who had 
 hitherto trusted in moraUty for salvation ; and a school teacher 
 who had taken refuge in atheism. In the intermission, I felt 
 exceedingly humbled for my unprofitableness, and groaned in 
 spirit, fearing that I had occupied a place that might have been 
 filled more profitably by another. In the afternoon, the meeting 
 house and academy were filled to overflowing. We attended at the 
 
248 MEMOIRS o^ 
 
 latter place, where Elder Place preached a pathetic discourse, from 
 Luke 2:14 : " Glori/ to God in the highest," &c. He appeared to 
 be full of the Spirit of the Lord. While he was praymg for me, 
 one expression affected me much : — " O Lord, he has rode on the 
 King's beast, and worn the King's apparel — now may he sit down, 
 like Mordecai, in the King's gate, and remember that he is but a 
 man." 
 
 Sabbath evening, I spoke with freedom to about five hundred 
 people, in the vestry of Elder Tobey's meeting house at Provi- 
 dence, and they heard attentively. On Tuesday, I preached in 
 Burrillville and Blackstone. At the latter place, a revival had 
 lately commenced. Several kneeled, while prayers were offered 
 for their salvation. Next day, I preached in North Providence ; 
 and the day following assisted in preparing for publication, the 
 Minutes of the four sessions of the Freewill Baptist General Con- 
 ference. We did tliis by the appointment of the Conference ; and 
 in the week following, I published them in a pamphlet of twenty- 
 four pages. This is the first work of the kind published in the 
 connexion, and is an interesting article to those who wish to become 
 acquainted with the denomination. It is not designed as a disci- 
 pline, but simply to show what we believe is taught and required 
 in the law of Christ. I preached in Cranston, on " the fulness of 
 times ;" and, through grace, my soul was full of comfort. O that 
 I were as thankful as I ought to be. On Friday, I preached in 
 Johnston and Greenville. At the former meeting, some appeared 
 seriously impressed ; and at the latter, several came forward for 
 prayer. Keformation now began to be visible in Greenville. Of 
 the four sessions of the General Conference, revivals have followed 
 three. Saturday evening, and Sabbath, Oct. 24, I preached four 
 times in Pawtucket, and enjoyed liberty. The assemblies increas- 
 ed ; and at the last meeting, the people could hardly be convened 
 in the house. The word was blessed to some, one of whom I un- 
 derstood was soon converted. 
 
 On Monday, Oct. 25, 1 had designed to start for Maine, where I 
 had sent appointments. But Elder Tobey having strongly sohci- 
 ted us to spend a week in Providence, they had been withdrawn, 
 and we accepted the invitation, making his house our home. I 
 preached in the evening at the house of Elder Allen Brown. Three 
 or four preachers were present, the governor's wife and daughter, 
 and several of the higher class. Yet the Lord hid the " fear of 
 man" from me, and enabled me to speak with much boldness. 
 Wednesday evening, I spoke with freedom to about two hundred 
 people, in the west pai*t of the town ; and on the next evening, 
 again at the vestry, which was filled. Friday, I attended a meet- 
 ing in Greenville. A few had found peace, and fifteen came for- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 249 
 
 ward for prayer. The day following, on our way to Olneyville, 
 while reading the manner in whicli the Indians had heen " rooted 
 out" of their " good land," and reduced to a handful, I was led to 
 reflect on the iniquity that has polluted the earth, and the misery 
 that has made " the whole creation" groan and travail " in pain to- 
 gether until now." Such was the scene of madness, folly, and sin, 
 now presented to my view, that I wept for miles — My heart was 
 filled with pain, and I said, " O that my head were Avaters, and 
 mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for" 
 a ruined world. On our arrival at Olneyville, I told Elder Che- 
 ney ray feelings ; and, as I had an appointment at his meeting 
 house, he gave me tliis text, " We know that we are of God, and 
 the whole world lieth in wickedness J"" I preached from it, and had 
 a solemn time. Next morning, the house was filled, and I spoke 
 again with freedom. In the afternoon, I preached on the atone- 
 ment, at Elder Tobey's meeting house in Providence ; and in the 
 evening, to about one thousand people in the same place, on the 
 subject of faith. The Lord assisted me, blessed be his name. Dur- 
 ing our stay in Providence, Elder Tobey showed us many favors, 
 and through his influence I received a present of a cloak. 
 
 AYe had now been in R. I. seventeen days, and had constantly 
 met with unexpected kindness. I had been unable to comply with 
 one half of the earnest solicitations for preaching ; and the entrea- 
 ties of many, especially in Smithfield, that I should return, after 
 meeting my engagements in Maine, influenced me to abandon my 
 intention of spending the fall in that state, and to leave appoint- 
 ments for my immediate return. Monday, Nov. 1, we started in 
 company with Elder A. Rollins and wife for Maine. In the even- 
 ing, I preached in Boston, Mass., and the next evening at. Haver- 
 hill, on the Merrimack. Here I was filled with the love of God. 
 Wednesday evening, I preached at Dover, N. II., and the next day 
 visited the different rooms of the calico manufactory, a building of 
 six stories. While examining the machinery, I remembered the 
 scripture, " Man hath sought out many inventions ;" and, thought I, 
 * If men were half as wise in the care of their soids, as they are 
 anxious in their care for the body, the world would be happy.' 
 Nov. 6, I preached in Parsonsfield, Me., and on the Salibath, spoke 
 with usual freedom to a crowded assembly at Limerick corner. I 
 attended two meetings on Monday, and the next morning started 
 for R. I. In the evening, I met about eight hundred people in the 
 Methodist chapel at Somersworth, N. H. 
 
 Thursday, Nov. 11, we continued our journey, and on Saturday 
 arrived at Pawtucket, much fatigued. In the evening I preached 
 in this place, and on the Sabbath spoke in much weakness at Prov- 
 idence, North Providence, and Greenville. In the latter, I enjoy- 
 
250 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ed a good season. After the meeting, I was sick, and went out lit- 
 tle till the next Tuesday. During our absence, the number of the 
 anxious had increased, and a few were brought into liberty. 
 Among these, were the merchant and atheist named before. The 
 former, I understood, on hearing that his wife was converted, wept 
 aloud for two hours, and prayed for mercy ; and in a meeting short- 
 ly after he said, ' I had built what I thought a fine fabric — and 
 trusted in morality. But I thank God that he has thrown it all 
 down.' This seemed to overthrow a refuge of the wicked, w ho had 
 often pointed to Mr. A., saying, ' Show us a Christian that is more 
 upright.' During the week, I preached in Scituate, Greenville, 
 twice in Gloucester, and enjoyed usual freedom. 
 
 On the Sabbath, the meeting house at Greenville was filled with 
 people, and I spoke on baptism. After this. Elder Allen, pastor of 
 the church, baptized four. I gave a discourse in the afternoon on 
 communion. In the evening we attended a conference ; saints 
 were edified, and some mourners arose for prayer. Nov. 25, I met 
 about four hundred people at the second Baptist church in Provi- 
 dence, and the day following, preached at Sprague's manufactory 
 in Smithfield ; two were deeply exercised and kneeled in the time 
 of prayer ; one of these, I understood, found peace the next day. 
 
 Sabbath, Nov. 28, I preached three times in Chepachet with 
 considerable freedom ; and at the close of the third sermon, I had 
 such a sense of the state of the wicked, that I could not refrain 
 from weeping aloud. During this week I held meetings in Burrill- 
 ville, Smithfield, Scituate, and attended a conference at Greenville. 
 The revival continued moderately. Sabbath forenoon, while speak- 
 ing from Eccl. 12:1 4, I remarked that secrecy is a sign of iniquity ; 
 and that Christians should be open in their conduct ; and quoted 
 several scriptures against " the works of darknessJ^ In the after- 
 noon, we heard Elder William Hurley, a minister of the General 
 Baptists, from England.* He preached an excellent discourse 
 from Luke 13:24 : " Strive to enter in at the strait gate," &c. In 
 the evening I preached near Smithfield, and had a very interesting 
 time ; several spoke, and six covenanted to seek the Lord. The 
 next morning, a man asked me who I meant in my sermon, yester- 
 day, when I said, " It is a shame to speak of those things that are 
 done of them in secret." I told him that the saying was borrowed 
 from the Bible, and that I meant all who do in secret that of which 
 they are ashamed. " But," said he, " did you not mean masons ?" 
 I said if masons do in secret those things of which it is a shame to 
 
 * There jre several sects of the General Baptists in England, One of these is nearly 
 the same in sentiment as the Freewill Baptists in America; and an interesting corres- 
 pondence has existed between them and our denomination for about four years. Elder 
 Hurley is a member of the connexion that corresponds with us. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 251 
 
 speak, I did. " "Well, well," said he, "you had better mind how 
 you bring up a respectable body of men in public where they have 
 not a chance to answer for themselves. I thought I should come to 
 hear you preach in the evening ; but after hearing those remarks, 
 I concluded that I would not." He then left me abruptly. Tues- 
 day, I met three ministers at Greenville, to ordain Ethan Thorn- 
 ton, a brother of Elder A. Thornton, deceased, to the office of a 
 deacon. By his request, I preached on the occasion, and felt great- 
 ly impressed with the importance of the duties of this sacred office. 
 Next day, I had a meeting at Gloucester, and one who had cove- 
 nanted with me to seek the Lord, gave evidence of having found 
 Jesus. 
 
 Thursday, Dec. 9, I attended a meeting at the meeting house in 
 Greenville, which was designed to expose the iniquity of Free Ma- 
 sonry. Elder declining an invitation to make the introduc- 
 tory prayer, the request was addressed to me. And as the voice of 
 inspiration says, " I will that men pray every where," I accepted 
 the invitation. After this, we heard a very candid and able dis- 
 course on the subject, from Mr. Moses Thatcher, a Congregational- 
 ist minister. Then an aged and venerable Quaker, who had been 
 a mason, testified, that the disclosures relative to Free Masonry 
 were correct, as far as he had taken the degrees. I had said noth- 
 ing on the subject, in any public meeting in New-England, and 
 had intended to be silent in this meeting ; but now a trembling 
 seized me, and I felt impressed, I believed, by the Spirit of the 
 Lord, to state some facts with which I had been acquainted, con- 
 nected with the abduction of Morgan. For I had found, to my 
 surprise, that such had been the power of the deception used by the 
 fraternity, that very many supposed that Morgan had never been 
 taken away by masons ; or if he had, that it was only done by a 
 few, and the deed was disapproved by the institution, &c. I was 
 acquainted with facts which were weighty on the subject ; and I 
 believed I should be condemned by God, if I now withheld these 
 things from the people. I also knew there were serious persons in 
 the multitude present, to whom the silence of Christians respecting 
 this evil was a great " stumbling block." Therefore, lest I should 
 be guilty of the blood of souls, I stated some facts, gave my testi- 
 mony against the institution, made an apology for those that had 
 been taken in the snare, entreating the people to deal tenderly with 
 them, and warned sinners to be cautious, lest this subject should 
 take their attention from their eternal interests. I spoke about fif- 
 teen minutes. Most of the assembly wept, and after meeting, some 
 to whom this subject had been a trial, manifested seriousness for the 
 first time, and with tears asked me to pray for them. From this 
 time, however, the countenance and conduct of those that were in 
 
252 MEMoms OP 
 
 heart attached to the institution were materially changed — some 
 that had appeared to be my friends turned against me — and letters, 
 unfriendly, cruel, and slanderous, were sent before me to Maine, 
 apparently to hedge up my way.* This was unexpected opposi- 
 tion, and such as I had never before met from ***** 
 My heart was filled with mourning, and I wept day and night. I 
 little thought, when I came to visit my dear brethren in the east, 
 that for the conscientious discharge of my duty, I should have to 
 
 * The following is a copy of one of these letters signed by the pastor of North Provi- 
 dence church. Another was an anonymous communication from which a few extracts 
 are taken. These are here introduced by- the advice of some judicious friends who 
 thought their insertion would exemplify the spirit of Masonry, and that the recent revi- 
 val of this order demands that light on this subject should be thrown before the public 
 mind. 
 
 " North Providence, Dec. 20, 1830. 
 
 Brother Burbank,, {Editor of Morning Star:] 
 
 Elder Marks has not left this section yet. His last visit has been a cause of grief to 
 most of us, and we have no doubt he came back on purpose to blow the coals of Anti- 
 Masonry. He for some time did it secretly, and while receiving such things as he needed 
 from brethren, most of whom were masons. Just before he left Greenville, in the height 
 
 of revival, he, in a public meeting, spoke on the subject, and poor brother is 
 
 now left to labor against prejudices of his creating We fear it will stop the work, and 
 were I the person who had done it, I should fear lest at the day of doom some should 
 reproach me as the cause of their ruin. We believe he has done more real injury to the 
 cause of religion in this part, than he will do good elsewhere for months to come. Be- 
 lieve me, your affectionate, though unworthy brother, ." 
 
 " Mr. Burbank, Sir, — You will pardon me for intruding on your generosity, while the 
 feelings of my heart prompt me to make a few remarks preparatory against the fowler's 
 snare. I have a particular regard for the people whose cause you vindicate, and their 
 prosperity, union, happiness, and church fellowship, lead me to adopt this method as a 
 means of exertion for continued good feelings and friendship among the Free-will Bap- 
 tists. I design this letter as a caution for you to not be too hasty in making any inser- 
 tions that may be sent or presented you by David Marks. I am apt to think he will dip 
 his pen in gall against the little village of Greenville, or at least some of its worthy in- 
 habitants. When the General Conference was held in Oct. last, he (Marks,) preached on 
 Sabbath, A. M., was received by the congregation with very general applause, by the 
 brethren with cordial cheer, and their houses a receptacle, a very welcome receptacle for 
 himself and companion, and their barns and granaries for his horse. As a Christian min- 
 ister he was received, as a Christian minister he was treated, and considered to be la- 
 boring for the upbuilding of Zion's cause. But soon, to the sorrow and surprise of the 
 pastor of the church, he began to weave himself into the graces of some of the church 
 members by traducing a certain class of people called Free Masons, or the institution 
 from which they derive their name, and which is the same thing. This circumstance 
 gave him an introduction to certain families who have ever been opposed to Free-will 
 Baptists, as well as masons, and he expostulated freely in favor of the anti-masonic 
 
 cause, and has borne hard upon Elder , he being a nominal mason. This course 
 
 he pursued wherever he thought it would do, although he ever appeared to Eld. 's 
 
 face to be a well wisher to him, — yet it appeared to be his aim to undermine him, that he 
 might slide into his shoes. ***** 
 
 A man, called by some the Hon. Moses Thatcher, of Wrentham, Mass, (and late, but 
 not successful, candidate for representative to Congress, and a most violent seceding ma- 
 son,) held forth at the nieeting house occupied by Elder , in which, he (Marks,) took 
 
 a very active part, and as many candid persons thought, who were present, clothed his 
 remarks with a hypocritical revenge. * * * He seems to have spared no pains to 
 raise an excitement, and for what purpose I cannot conceive, unless it is to publish his 
 
 real character, or, in other words, to level down Eld. , and level himself up. If he 
 
 proceeds in the same manner wherever he goes, you will find your churches all in an up- 
 roar. I do not write this to injure Mr. Marks, but to let you know his management, 
 hoping, by these means, that some check may be given to his conduct, and that peace 
 and harmony may rest on, and dwell among. Free-will Baptists, and they not be thrown 
 into disorder, by one who acts or conducts like a wolf in sheep's clothing. Therefor*, 
 set your bounds in season, lest the publications Marks would palm upon you, might se- 
 cretly, and ere you are aware, lead you and the whole denomination into trouble. * * 
 From a professor, and I humbly trust a possessor, ofreligio7i.^^ 
 
DAVID MARKS. 253 
 
 endure such opposition. But this is nothing, compared with what 
 my Lord has endured for me : and he said of the world, " Me it 
 hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil" There- 
 fore, I have been enabled to commit these things to him who 
 ^^judgeth righteously" and pray that ^^ my misjudging friends" may 
 consider what these Scriptures mean : " Touch not mine anointed, 
 and do my prophets no harm" — " Inasmuch as ye have done it unto 
 one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." 
 
 On Saturday I preached at Olneyville, and on the Sabbath gave 
 my farewell discourse in Greenville. Some wept aloud, and nine 
 covenanted to seek the Lord as long as they lived. Several breth- 
 ren and friends, knowing that I had made a considerable sacrifice 
 to return to this state, communicated liberally ; especially as they 
 knew I had received very little, because I had testified against the 
 works of iniquity. After preaching in North Providence, Provi- 
 dence, Pawtucket, Rehoboth, and Attleborough, we went in a steam- 
 boat to Newport, where we spent six days. I preached six times, 
 and enjoyed some freedom. We were kindly received by Elders 
 Eddie and McKenzie. The latter is a young man of the age of 
 eighteen years, and was ordained the spring before. He had the 
 care of a considerable church, and appeared humble and well en- 
 gaged. "We were told that he commenced preaching in his father*s 
 chamber, when a little boy ; and gathered a society of about fifty 
 of his age, each of whom gave a cent every week which was dis- 
 tributed to the poor. 
 
 We visited the graveyard in Newport. It contained some acres, 
 and the greater part is closely filled with graves. Unnumbered 
 monuments and tomb-stones of all kinds were standing, inclining, 
 or lying on the ground. For an hour we walked over " the con- 
 gregation of the dead;" and when I saw how time had baffled the 
 labors of men to perpetuate their memory, and that they lay here 
 forgotten, I fell on my face, and cried, ' Alas, this is the end of my 
 race, and thus the glory of man fades away ! My eyes have seen 
 an end of all earthly perfection.' We also visited the Jews' syna- 
 gogue, which is an elegant square brick building. While we view- 
 ed the altar, the ten commandments written on plates of brass, the 
 vessels of Mosaic work, the candlesticks, whose lights had gone 
 out, and the burying ground, all of which seemed desolate monu- 
 ments of wealth and grandeur ; and while we reflected that not a 
 Jew remained on the island, we were reminded of what the cruci- 
 fiers of the Savior said, " His blood be on us, and on our children,'* 
 and of the numerous prophecies concerning the desolations of that 
 unbelieving nation. Truly Grod has visited " the iniquities of the 
 fathers upon the children" that hate him ; and has required the 
 blood of the Son of Grod at their hand. 
 22 
 
254 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 I next held three meetings in Boston. Several were revived, 
 and some were awakened. On Saturday, Dec. 25, we attended 
 the Roman Catholic celebration of Christmas, or the birth-day of 
 Christ. More than two thousand people were present, seven hun- 
 dred of whom we understood were members of the Roman Catho- 
 lic church. They played on several kinds of instruments of music, 
 and accompanied them with singing. Here we saw their images, 
 paintings, and candles burning at noon day ; and a great many oth- 
 er things not named in the Bible. Several priests, and a bishop 
 attended, clad in very sumptuous apparel, which, at a little dis- 
 tance, appeared to be cloth covered with gold and silver, gems and 
 needle-work. The attire of the bishop surpassed that of the oth- 
 ers in show and grandeur. He had also a mitre on his head, that 
 appeared to be gilded. A part of the time they stood with their 
 backs to the people, frequently kneeling before their images, and 
 then immediately rising, — some of the time they read prayers in 
 Latin. A young priest, clad in a white surplice, preached to the 
 people ; but his voice was so feeble that we could only occasion- 
 ally understand a word. Christians, thought I, who desire un- 
 scriptural practices, and worldly grandeur, may come here and learn 
 instruction. Here they may see, that after men depart from the 
 simplicity of the Bible, they will not be content till they obtain all 
 the glory of Babylon. When I had looked on the vanity that was 
 exhibited on this occasion, under pretence of woi*shipping God, my 
 soul hated, more than ever, the worldly display of the anti-christian 
 worship ; and I felt to thank God that the pure and holy religion 
 of Jesus Christ disdains this outward pomp, and possesses a glory 
 that will not fade away. 
 
 I preached at the Methodist chapel in Charlestown, then went 
 to Haverhill and held five or six meetings. These were attended 
 with considerable of the good spirit. One of them, on the last even- 
 ing of the year, was what is called a " watch meeting,'' and it con- 
 tinued with considerable interest till after midnight. In this meet- 
 mg, I preached two sermons. In another, I preached from Ezek. 
 13:22, " Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous 
 sad, whom I have not made sad ; and strengthened the hands of the 
 wicked, that he shovld not return from his wicked way, hy promising 
 him life." In this meeting a backslider, who had embraced Univer- 
 salism, was convinced of his error, and from this time sought the 
 Lord till he found salvation. The brethren in this place commu- 
 nicated to me liberally. In the early part of January, 1831, I 
 preached in Dover, Rochester, and three or four times in Somers- 
 worth. The meeting at Rochester was impressive, and a few came 
 forward for prayer. 
 
 From the 10th of Jan. to the 12th of Feb. 1831, I spent in vis- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 255 
 
 iting and preaching daily with churches in the south-west part of 
 Me., and in attendance at the Parsonsfield and Gorham quarterly 
 meetings. I was very kindly received, and in several places saw 
 the salvation of God. 
 
 An eclipse of the sun happened on the 12th of February, and 
 more than eleven twelfths of its surface darkened; yet the 
 light was considerable. This reminded me of the time when it 
 " shall be turned to darkness." Again, I thought, as a twelfth part 
 of the' sun giveth so much light, so does a little influence from 
 Christ, " the Sun of righteousness," greatly illuminate a darkened 
 world. After this, we went to Portland, and were affectionately 
 received by Elder E. Shaw, with whom I had been acquainted in 
 New York. He now had the care of a church of about one hun- 
 dred and thirty members, belonging to the Christian connexion 
 that had lately separated from the Christian church in this place, 
 on account of the introduction of instrumental music and such like 
 things. They had built a plain and convenient house of worship. 
 I held six or seven meetings with them, for two or three days vis- 
 ited with Elder Shaw from house to house, and found some peni- 
 tent souls that desired salvation. 
 
 In the latter part of February, we went to Brunswick and Tops- 
 ham, beautiful villages on the Androscoggin. In these towns the 
 Lord was reviving his work, and several had been brought to re- 
 joice. I preached with the people seven times, and enjoyed some 
 good seasons. In the early part of March, I held two meetings in 
 Lisbon, five in Richmond, and nine or ten in Gardiner, a town on 
 the Kennebec. In Richmond, the brethren were well engaged, 
 and our meetings were times of rejoicing. At Gardiner, I enjoyed 
 usual freedom. A revival was progressing in one neighborhood. 
 In one of my meetings, twenty came forward for prayer ; many 
 exhorted, and it was a very refreshing time. At one of my ap- 
 pointments in the village of Gardiner, a rumor was circulated with- 
 out my knowledge, that I would preach against Free Masonry. 
 On this, as well as on several other similar occasions, I thought it 
 my duty to confine myself to other important subjects, though by 
 this means the people were disappointed. Indeed, I have never 
 spoken upon this subject, except when I believed it would be a 
 crime for me to be silent. At another appointment, two hours be- 
 fore the time arrived for the meeting to commence, I assented to a 
 request to preach on the subject, and a crowd of people attended. 
 I read Gen. 49:5, 6, 7, " Simeon and Levi are brethren — instru- 
 ments of cruelty are in their habitations. my soul, come not thou 
 into their secret ; unto their assembly, mine honor, be not thou unit- 
 ed ! for in their anger they slew a man, and in their self-will they 
 digged down a wall Cursed he their anger, for it was fierce; and 
 
256 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 their mrathf for it was cruel : I will divide them in Jacob, and 
 scatter them in Israel" When I had read to the clause — " they 
 slew a man" — I paused, and several appeared to feel very keenly^ 
 i\\2ii lis application ^Si& unavoidable. I had understood that my 
 discourse was to have an immediate answer, so I gave liberty ; 
 but every man remained silent. 
 
 Between the 13th and 25th of March, on our return to Limer- 
 ick, I preached it Litchfield, Bowdoinham, Topsham, Brunswick, 
 Portland, Gorham, Scarborough, and Buxton. Some of these 
 meetings were attended with much of the good Spirit, and I expect 
 to meet some fruits of them in eternity. The brethren in Gardin- 
 er, Richmond, and Portland, communicated liberally of their sub- 
 stance. We spent nearly a week in Limerick and Parsonsfield, 
 and attended eight meetings ; then met appointments in Wake- 
 field and Newfield. Sabbath, April 3, I p'reached three sermons 
 in Ossipee to a considerable assembly, that was very solemn. In 
 this place we had a short interview with a sister of Elder Benja- 
 min Randall, the founder of the Free-will Baptist denomination. 
 She appeared to be a " mother in Israel ;" ^pd we were much de- 
 lighted by her plainness and humihty. She remarked that her 
 brother, Elder Randall, was a very plain man, and was ever op- 
 posed to the pride and superfluity that too often dishonor professed 
 Christians. After this, I preached in Efilngham, Parsonsfield, and 
 twice in Brownfield. The last of these discourses was given on a 
 funeral occasion, and to me it was a dark and trying time; yet, 
 soon after this, I understood, one was converted that dated her 
 awakening at this meeting. Thus he that soweth, " knoweth not 
 whether shall prosper, either this or that." Next I held meetings 
 in Parsonsfield, Limington, Cornish, HoUis, and Biddeford. In these 
 places there were signs of good, and we enjoyed a good degree of 
 the divine influence. 
 
 Thursday, April 21, had been appointed by the governor of 
 Maine for a fast, — and agreeably to previous appointment, I met 
 a congregation at the west meeting house in Limington, and preach- 
 ed a sermon, showing what kind of a fast the Lord requireth. See 
 Isa. 58. 
 
 May 1, 1831, we started on a journey to Massachusetts, New 
 Hampshire, and Vermont. I preached to assemblies in Water- 
 borough and Great Falls, and felt remarkably strengthened of the 
 Lord in trying to pull down the strong holds of satan.* A good 
 
 * During the day previous to the evening meeting at Great Falls, one of the leading 
 brethren in the church said to Mr. Marks, that he hoped he would say nothing against 
 Masonry, as the masons in that place were popular and powerful. It was further stated, 
 that the masons said that Morgan's disclosures were a lie, and the story of his abduction 
 a mere hoax. Mr. Marks also learned that young brethren and converts were constant- 
 ly joining the fraternity, supposing it to be a " handmaid to religion." His mind was 
 
DAVID MARKS. 257 
 
 revival was progressing in the latter place, and at an inquiry meet- 
 ing, ten came forward for prayer. Wednesday evening, I preach- 
 ed with much freedom in Dover to a large assembly, and many 
 wept aloud. I next met appointments in Strafford and Barnstead. 
 These were good seasons, and one covenanted to kneel and pray 
 three times daily for a year. On Saturday and Sabbath, I preach- 
 ed once in Pittsfield and thrice in Epsom ; and at the latter place 
 felt greatly humbled for my unprofitableness. During ten days 
 following, I attended two meetings in Hawke, five in Haverhill, 
 three in Boston, and one in Dover. Some of these were times of 
 trial, others were seasons of much rejoicing, and the word appear- 
 ed to fall " into good ground." 
 
 Wednesday and Thursday, May 18 and 19, we attended the 
 New Durham quarterly meeting in Middleton, N. H. This quar- 
 terly meeting was formed about forty-eight years ago, and is the 
 oldest in the connexion. Two aged brethren were present, who, 
 ■we understood, were converted at or before the time that Elder 
 Randall became a Christian, and were "yoke fellows" with him, 
 from the first of his religious course to the end of his useful life. 
 These were very plain, grave, and apparently very holy men. One 
 of them was a man of few words ; the other was called a noisy 
 Christian, as he sometimes said ^' Amen" and shouted, saying, 
 " Glory to God" in time of worship. On the first day reports 
 were received from about thirty churches ; some of them were en- 
 joying revivals. Several exhortations were given, after which I 
 spoke from Ps. 27:4, 5, " One thing have I desired of the Lord," 
 &c. Next day I spoke two hours and twenty minutes with much 
 freedom. In the afternoon. Elder Blaisdell delivered a discourse, 
 and a few came forward for prayer. Through the kindness and in- 
 fluence of Elders Place and Blaisdell, I here received a collection 
 
 now in deep trials. To look on in silence and see young Christians drawn into such a 
 snare, while he had facts in his possession that would enlighten their minds, was what 
 he dared not decide to do. It was very painful to all the feelings of his nature to incur . 
 the censure of brethren, but he could not be recreant to just principles. After spending 
 much time in prayer, he went calmly to his appointment. His text was Eccl. 12:14, 
 " For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be 
 good or whether it be evil." Among the secret things which he enumerated that God 
 would judge, were the secret oaths and obligations of Free Masonry. Soon after he 
 named this subject, several persons came in, and some appeared much agitated, while 
 quite a crowd were about the door. He turned around and addressed them with great 
 pathos and power, portrayed the awful scenes of the judgment in the most living colors. 
 Profound awe seemed to seize the new listeners. The moral sublimity of this scene 
 cannot be described. At the close of the services, a Christian friend, who was a nomin- 
 al mason, said to him, " Brother Marks, don't go now ; there is a collection of people 
 without, and a great excitement." When the congregation was passing out, this friend 
 took Mr. Marks by the arm and led him out with the crowd, unobserved, through files of 
 men standing on each side. Mr. Marks was afterwards informed, that during his ser- 
 mon the lodge was in session ; but, on hearing that he was speaking against masonry, 
 they immediately adjourned and came to the meeting. Next morning there was much 
 excitement throughout the village, and on the corners of the streets, groups of men were 
 standing and talking earnestly in angry and exciting tones. Some of the brethren, think- 
 ing it unsafe for Mr. Marks to leave the village alone, accompanied him to Dover.— Ed. 
 
 22* 
 
MEMOIRS OF 
 
 of about fifteen dollars. Friday, I preached at the funeral of a 
 man in Wolfborough. I was told that two days before his death, 
 he remarked, lightly, " In two days my day of grace will he past.'* 
 But O, how little did he think he was speaking the truth ! He 
 came suddenly to his end by the kick of a horse. I next preached 
 with usual freedom in Wolfborough, twice in Tuftonborough, twice 
 in Sandwich, once in Meredith, and once in Holderness. 
 
 Saturday and Sabbath, May 28 and 29, we attended the Sand- 
 wich quarterly meeting, held at Alexandria. I preached twice at 
 this meeting, once from Matt. 16:26, ^^ For what is a man profited, 
 if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul ?" &c. ; and 
 while speaking, the power of the Lord came upon me — ^his light 
 shined before me — and the worth of the soul, and again its loss, 
 opened to my mind with such awful sublimity, that I was carried 
 beyond all my former conceptions and feelings. I beheld my fel- 
 low creatures sinking ! — sinking ! — sinking ! — with Christ before 
 their eyes. And once or twice I was so much overpowered that it 
 seemed as though I should lose my breath. The assembly that 
 stood within and without the house, was greatly affected. After 
 the meeting, I visited several that appeared much awakened and 
 quite tender ; but they would not promise to turn to God. O that 
 this people knew the time of their visitation ! I staid the next day 
 and held a meeting. Only a few came forward for prayer, and I 
 left the place in deep mourning for the people of Alexandria. Af- 
 ter preaching in Holderness and Campton, we proceeded to Lisbon, 
 a town in the north-west part of New Hampshire, and attended a 
 meeting. The state of religion was low in this place ; but, feeling 
 an impression that God would revive his work immediately, I 
 spoke from Matt. 3:3, ^^ Prepare ye the way of the Lord" and told 
 the people ray impression. Saturday and Sabbath, June 4 and 5, 
 we attended the Wheelock quarterly meeting, held in Cabot, Ver- 
 mont. It appeared to be a time of some trial among the churches ; 
 yet we enjoyed a good season, and several knelt for prayer. Af- 
 ' ter this I preached with much freedom in Wheelock and Sutton. 
 The latter meeting was on the day of military exercises ; two 
 companies marched into the meeting house, with their equipments. 
 My subject was, " the signs of the times." We staid the night 
 with Elder Woodman, and enjoyed a very agreeable interview. 
 
 On Friday, June 10, 1831, I attended the annual meeting of the 
 N. H. Charitable Society. Seventy-five brethren and preachers 
 were present. A venerable man, of the age of seventy-seven, who 
 was contemporary with Elder Randall, and had served as presi- 
 dent of the society every year since its organization, arose and re- 
 marked, that it had ever been their practice when they came to- 
 gether, to make prayer unto God ; and that it would be well for 
 
DAVID MARKS. 259 
 
 each to search for duty. After a little silence, Eld. ^Enoch Place 
 fell on his knees, and prayed with much fervor. It appeared that 
 there was a fund of about one thousand dollars belonging to the 
 society ; and, that at each- session of the yearly meeting, the socie- 
 ty gave the interest of the money to the needy. Any man of good 
 moral character might become a member, by giving five dollars, or 
 by paying the interest on five dollars annually. Thirty-one per- 
 sons became members at this meeting. 
 
 Saturday, June 11, the New Hampshire yearly meeting opened. 
 The forenoon was spent in business, and in hearing the reports 
 from the quarterly meetings, which were considerably refreshing. 
 In the afternoon, a sermon was delivered, and several exhortations 
 were given by preachers and brethren. Sabbath morning, prayer 
 meeting commenced at 8 o'clock, and before ten the meeting house 
 was crowded. I spoke two hours and thirty-seven minutes, with 
 much freedom, from Mark 16:15, 16. In the afternoon, Eld. Cav- 
 erno preached from Dan. 7:9, 10, "I beheld till the thrones were 
 cast down," &c. At the close, fifty-two persons stood in the galle- 
 ries and sung the Judgment Anthem. This was solemn and im- 
 pressive, and all gave the strictest attention. At 6 o'clock, about 
 one hundred people assembled for a conference meeting. After 
 several exhortations were given, Eld-er Place related a part of his 
 experience, which was very remarkable, and stated some interest- 
 ing particulars relative to his first acquaintance with the Free-will 
 Baptists at New Durham, about thirty years ago. He said, that 
 though Elder Randall was " little of stature," his face pale, and his 
 appearance feeble, he had a voice like thunder, and his preaching 
 was attended with great power. Also, that at that time, the de- 
 nomination was so holy and humble, and their preaching so power- 
 ful, that the work of God followed them wherever they went, — ^in- 
 somuch that many, and he himself, thought their spirit was conta- 
 gious ; and they feared to come nigh them, lest they should catch 
 the same spirit. " But," said he, " I fear that we, as a people, are 
 not what we once were — that a spirit of popularity is gaining 
 among us. For more than twenty years I have kept, on myself 
 and on this connexion, a jealous eye ; and it does not set well on 
 my feelings, when I hear it said, " The Free-will Baptists are be- 
 coming more orderly ; and when I hear the drunkard say, " they 
 preached well,^' and the infidel say, " they ai'e respectable,^* then 
 my soul is pained, and I fear God will send us a curse instead of a 
 blessing." He addressed the saints with much pathos ; and, after 
 expostulating powerfully with the wicked, he lifted up his voice and 
 exclaimed, " Ground your arms ! — ground your arms ! — ground 
 your arms ! ye rebels !" And such was the power which attended 
 these words, that a trembling seized the assembly, and the place 
 
3$CI MiSMoms Of* 
 
 became awful on account of the presence of God. When Elder 
 Place had spoken about an hour, he ceased, and a few others ex- 
 horted. Then again he appeared to be filled with the word of the 
 Lord, spoke for half an hour, and his voice seemed to sound like 
 the thunder of Sinai. His strength failed ; and as he rested, I in- 
 vited sinners that felt their need of salvation, to come to the for- 
 ward pews for prayer. Immediately nine came and fell on their 
 knees. Some of them wept aloud, and others, joining them, fell 
 on their knees, or kneeled in other parts of the assembly, till the 
 number was increased to twenty-three. Many prayers were made 
 in their behalf, and some prayed for themselves. Several of the 
 preachers continued their supplications till their voices were hoarse ; 
 and Elder Place pleaded with God for them, till he was quite ex- 
 hausted,— went to a window and obtained a little breath, then he 
 lifted up his voice and thanked God, and wept, and prayed again 
 for sinners. The meeting continued till about midnight, and two 
 or three professed to be converted. 
 
 Monday, one o'clock, P. M. Several preachers, with myself, 
 met about one hundred and fifty people at the meeting house. I 
 spoke a little more than an hour, on repentance and pardon ; some 
 exhortations were given, and the exercises were attended with heav- 
 enly power. At four o'clock, a discourse was preached by E der 
 Benjamin S. Manson, from Mark 5:36 : " Be not afraid, only be- 
 lieve." He spoke half an hour with much freedom ; then exhor- 
 tations w^ere given by Elders Pettingill, Smith, Plumb, Leavitt, 
 Knowles, and some others. At half past six, the invitation was given 
 to the awakened to come to the forward pews. The young people 
 were generally seated in the galleries ; and it was truly affecting to 
 see many of them, in the pride of youth, leave their seats and come 
 down weeping. Twenty-eight kneeled, and many fervent prayers 
 were made for them. In the meantime, I observed the people 
 leaning over the front of the galleries ; and as they looked on the 
 anxious, their tears fell like drops of rain. Conviction now reach- 
 ed the hearts of sinners in every part of the assembly ; and as 
 they came to the seats of the heavy laden, some appeared scarce- 
 ly able to stand ; fell down suddenly, and poured forth their grief 
 like a flood. One young lady, while trying to reach the seats ap- 
 propriated to those who desired prayer, lost her strength and sunk 
 on her knees in the aisle. She wept exceedingly, and several 
 prayed for her. She was then assisted to a forward pew, where, 
 with difficulty, she was kept from fainting. With her eyes lifted 
 toward heaven, she prayed fervently about two hours, when the 
 Lord spoke peace to her soul. A little after seven o'clock, about 
 forty had bowed the knee ; their weeping was very great, and many 
 of them were praying for themselves. About sunset they arose, 
 
DAVID MARKS. 261 
 
 were seated together, and ten of them spoke. Some confessed to 
 their parents, or other relatives, and entreated them to forgive all 
 the wrongs they had ever committed. Then all, as it were by- 
 common consent, again fell on their knees, and began to pray for 
 themselves : many Christians engaged with them. When the light 
 of day was gone, as the distress of the mourners continued, the 
 meeting house was lighted. Soon the weeping increased exceed- 
 ingly in every part of the congregation ; and unnumbered groans 
 fell on our ears without cessation, and the place seemed more awful 
 than any I had ever before seen. About fifty had bowed the knee ; 
 many of whom were convulsed with anguish, as though the pangs 
 of departing life had come upon them. Some, as their strength 
 failed, were supported in the arms of their friends ; others, with 
 great difficulty were kept from fainting, and some were doubtful 
 whether they would live through the scene. The cries, " Lord 
 have mercy ! — Lord have mercy ! — God be merciful to me a sin- 
 ner ! — Lord save or I perish ! — I shall die ! — There is no mercy 
 for me," &c., rolled successively upon our ears; and it was believ- 
 ed there was not a person in the assembly, that did not now feel 
 the dreadful power of God ! Sisters, brothers, and friends, were 
 seen falling into each other's arms, confessing their sins and invit- 
 ing one another to go with them to heaven. Children were weep- 
 ing at the feet of their parents, and parents were rejoicing over 
 their children. 
 
 Soon, with some, these agonizing pains suddenly subsided — they 
 praised the Lord aloud, and one said, " I feel as though I should 
 fly away to heaven." As soon as they were brought into liberty, 
 they began to encourage those that were still in bondage, and to 
 pray for their salvation. But this seemed only to increase their 
 anguish. While I witnessed this scene, I exclaimed with myself, 
 * O how awful is this place !' At half past nine o'clock, several 
 had found comfort, and the weeping was considerably abated. Those 
 who believed they had been converted since the meeting commenc- 
 ed last evening, were invited to rise. Seventeen stood up rejoicing. 
 Then the invitation was extended to all that had found some re- 
 lief and comfort, and eight more arose. Thus twenty-five profess- 
 ed to find relief in about twenty four-hours ; and it was believed 
 that as many as that were truly converted. 
 
 On Tuesday, at one o'clock, P. M., nearly two hundred assem- 
 bled again at the meeting house. I spoke more than an hour, from 
 Matt. 11:28 : " Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy la- 
 den, and I will give you rest." The Spirit of the Lord moved on 
 the assembly, and it was easy preaching. Many exhortations were 
 given, and great solemnity rested on the people. Twenty-five of 
 the saints and twenty converts, spoke of the salvation of God. 
 
20^ MEMOIRS OP 
 
 Seventeen awakened sinners also spoke. Some said they were the 
 chief of sinners — asked their neighbors to forgive them, and near- 
 ly all were greatly distressed. Several of these had not manifest- 
 ed any seriousness till this time. Occasionally, such heart-rending 
 groans and bitter cries burst from every part of the assembly, that 
 it seemed as though the most hardened infidel could but feel and 
 weep. At six o'clock, the penitent were again invited to come to 
 the forward pews. Forty came and kneeled, and before we ceas- 
 ed praying for them, the number was increased to fifty. Most of 
 these prayed fervently for themselves. And O what agonies ! 
 what bitter cryings ! what floods of tears, were poured out before 
 the Lord! Language fails to give a just description. At half 
 past seven I endeavored to compose the assembly, and they gener- 
 ally took their seats. Eleven then manifested, that since the last 
 evening, they had obtained a hope in the Redeemer. Praise the 
 Lord, O my soul, for the glory of this meeting. 
 
 On Wednesday, at 3 o'clock, P. M., a larger number assembled 
 than at any time before, since the Sabbath. As my late labors 
 had reduced my strength, I thought to omit preaching, and exhort- 
 ed the brethren to occupy the time. But as they seemed to with- 
 hold, I finally spoke some over an hour, on a clause of Luke 6:48 : 
 '^ And digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock." After this 
 more than twenty spoke ; some for the first time ; and several ap- 
 peared to be in extreme distress for fear their all was lost. At 
 the close of the meeting, fifty-three distinguished themselves as 
 penitents, and when prayer was made for them, about three-fourths 
 of the assembly fell on their knees. Three brethren prayed ; then 
 some of the anxious spoke, with much grief, and earnestly request- 
 ed us to remember them in our supplications. The mourners were 
 exhorted to spend the evening in prayer, and the people dispersed 
 a little before dark. I understood afterwards that two or three ob- 
 tained a hope in this meeting also. As soon as the evening was 
 come, we began to hear the voice of prayer from many directions, 
 and the sound rung for miles over the hills of Lisbon. The air 
 was clear, and the evening serene ; and even now its recollection 
 melts my soul. O what bitter cries and groans were heard from 
 every direction ! Some voices were heard for hours, till they grew 
 hoarse and faint — then, suddenly, their tone was changed, and they 
 praised the Lord. These supplications continued till midnight ;' and 
 next morning we understood a number were converted in differ- 
 ent parts of the town. 
 
 Thursday, at 3 o'clock, P. M., we assembled again, and rejoiced 
 to find that several more, of whom we had not heard, had found 
 peace since the meeting the day previous. The exercises were 
 very solemn. Forty-eight mourners came and kneeled in the for- 
 
DAVm MARKS. 263 
 
 ward pews, and a number of brethren and converts prayed for 
 them. Many heavy laden souls prayed earnestly for themselves 
 for two hours ; and in this time a number were delivered from the 
 ^ horrible pit' and brought to rejoice in the Lord. The cries of 
 these broken-hearted sinners entered into the ears of some that had 
 come as spectators. It sunk into their hearts — they felt that they 
 must be born again — wept for their sins, and bowed the knee for 
 the first time. Parents were searching among the anxious for their 
 children ; and when they found them there, we heard them exclaim, 
 " Glory to God ! there is my son ! there is my daughter !" Chil- 
 dren also were rejoicing to see their parents join the anxious. Fre- 
 quently one would lead a weeping relative along to the altar. At 
 half past nine o'clock, the people dispersed ; and a young woman 
 who had been a backslider, was overpowered by her distress, lost 
 her strength, and fell into the care of her friends. Some spoke of 
 calling for a physician ; but as she revived a little, she told them 
 none but a physician from above could do her any good. She was 
 carried to a neighboring house, where she recovered her strength 
 about one o'clock in the morning. She confessed, that, at the com- 
 mencement of the revival, she resolved that she would have no 
 share in it, and said that now there was no mercy for her. After 
 this, however, she found some relief.* 
 
 On Saturday, at two o'clock, P. M., about three hundred people 
 assembled at Lisbon in conference meeting. The interesting oc- 
 currences of the former meetings were repeated, seventy three 
 spoke, either of the goodness of God, or in confessing their 
 sins, and a few professed to find comfort. Three related their ex- 
 perience, and were received for baptism, and several others came 
 forward for the same purpose ; but for want of time the meeting 
 was adjourned till next morning. 
 
 Sabbath morning, we assembled at eight o'clock ; and before ten, 
 it w^as thought that seven hundred people had collected.f The 
 whole time, till twelve o'clock, w^as occupied by the converts in re- 
 lating their experience, and in receiving the fellowship of "the 
 church. After an intermission of forty minutes, I gave a discourse 
 on 1 Tim. 6:12 : "Fight the good fight of faith; lay hold on eter- 
 nal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good 
 
 * This young woman died a very triumphant death a few days afterwards. Ed. 
 
 t Sabbath morning, just before the commencement of public worship, Mr. S. Beede, 
 to whom reference has been made, handed Mr. Marks the following: 
 
 " Morning Thoughts. My Lord and my God, nearly one year has passed, since I 
 vowed unto thee to go forward in the ordinance of baptism, whenever I should meet one 
 of thy servants, who had been instrumental in my conversion, and could have the op- 
 portunity of saying to him, as the eunuch said to Philip, "See here is water ; what doth 
 hinder me to be baptized ?" That opportunity is now presented for the first time, and, 
 O Lord, how am I straitened. If I presume to go forward, it must be without much 
 impressions of duty, as I have ever been obliged to go in thy cause. I am away from 
 home and the enemy may take advantage, saying, it was doue in secret, or in a corner. 
 
264 MfiMOIRS OF 
 
 profession before many witnesses." After this, the converts and 
 brethren, followed by the assembly, walked half a mile in proces- 
 sion, singing a baptismal hymn. Then I had the privilege of bap- 
 tizing twenty-four, of whom thirteen were chiefly young men, and 
 eleven young women. The greater part came out of the water 
 praising the Lord. The scene was solemn and impressive, and 
 many of the spectators wept. Twenty-one of these had been con- 
 verted within the week past. After baptism the candidates joined 
 hands, and in presence of the assembly, received the Bible for their 
 law. I then gave them the right hand of fellowship : all kneeled 
 on the bank, and we returned thanks to God. After a recess of an 
 hour, we assembled again ; and many weighty testimonies were 
 given by the converts and others. Those that had been baptized 
 were greatly strengthened, and very happy ; others wept for hav- 
 ing neglected this duty, and said they would be baptized the first 
 opportunity. Several heavy laden sinners spoke with accents of 
 melting anguish, and pleaded for our prayers. Though the house 
 was nearly filled with people, yet there were few that did not ap- 
 pear to feel the solemn presence of God. A little before the 
 house was lighted, I was much affected at the appearance of the 
 assembly. Nearly all, except those who were on their knees, sat 
 leaning over the railing of the pews and wept profusely. About 
 sixty inquirers kneeled in the forward pews, while many prayers 
 were made for them ; and, indeed, nearly all prayed earnestly for 
 themselves till seven were hopefully converted. About ten o'clock 
 the meeting closed, and thirty-three of the anxious covenanted to 
 kneel and pray three times a day for four weeks. 
 
 But one week had elapsed since the revival commenced; and it 
 had progressed with far more power and rapidity, than any I had 
 ever before witnessed. O how wonderful and glorious were the 
 manifestations of the grace of God ! The work was like a migh- 
 ty wind, before which every thing gives way and falls to the earth. 
 I understood that soon after the commencement of the revival, 
 those who passed out of town, almost constantly met people that 
 were going to Lisbon to see the marvelous work of God. Many a 
 rebellious sinner, on entering the meeting, was immediately brought 
 to tremble under the power of God. Lideed, it seemed that few 
 
 Besides, it would cruelly grieve my tender parents and friends ; but, what is more than 
 all the rest, my own unworthiness causes me to shrink and shudder at the thought of at- 
 tempting the solemn act. Yet one of two tilings must be ; either I must say to brother 
 David, under all these embarrassments, as did tlie eunuch to Philip, or I must violate the 
 vow that I have made. I am straitened, I am distressed. Dear Lord, show me before 
 the baptismal hour how I shall act most to thy glory, and thy servant shall acquiesce 
 with a cheerful and willing mind. S. Beede. 
 
 Third Sabbath in June, 1831." 
 
 Mr. Beede finally decided to delay his baptism till he had another interview with his 
 Quaker friends. — Ed. 
 
DAVI1> MARKS. 265 
 
 i*etumed without conviction ; and there was less opposition than in 
 any other revival I ever saw. In nearly every case that any one 
 attempted to oppose, scarcely an hour passed before he was seen 
 on his knees. Every class shared in the work, and the people did 
 little else but go to meeting, read, pray, and attend to the great in- 
 terests of their souls. Several were awakened by hearing the ex- 
 perience of the converts ; and others, before they came to meet- 
 ing, by hearing of the revival, and about iifty souls had already 
 obtained a hope in Christ. Monday, June 20, duty called me to 
 leave the town. The converts, the brethren, and the people, seemed 
 dear to me as life. On the day before, they gave me a collection 
 of about seventeen dollars, and we had bid them farewell. 
 
 In the latter part of July we understood that in one month from 
 the time the work commenced, one hundred and fifty had been 
 converted ; and, including a few that were received as candidates, 
 and were awaiting baptism the next Sabbath, one hundred had been 
 baptized and added to the church in Lisbon. Also that the good 
 work had spread into Franconia and LandafiP, and was still pro- 
 gressing wonderfully. By the reports presented at the Sandwich 
 quarterly meeting, in the month of August, it appeared that one 
 hundred and fifty had been added to the Lisbon church since the 
 yearly meeting ; and a considerable number to one or two church- 
 es in the adjacent towns. We likewise understood, that two hun- 
 dred had been converted ; and that the glorious work continued 
 with great power. 
 
 Between the 20th of June and July 1st, I preached in Springfield, 
 Wendell, Newport, Fishersfield, Bradford, Deering, Weare, Hop- 
 kinton, Sanbornton, Gilmanton and Sandwich. In some of these 
 meetings I felt " the burden of the word of the Lord," and deep 
 impressions appeared to be made on the assemblies. I hope to 
 meet some good fruits of them in glory. In Sandwich, a revival 
 had commenced, which has since spread gloriously. 
 
 From July 1 to the 20th of September, I spent in the southwest- 
 ern part of Maine, and attended eighty meetings. Sometimes I 
 labored under trials, and felt that " bonds and afflictions await 
 ed me ;" but generally, through the grace of Ood, my peace was 
 like the constant flow of a gentle river. Frequently I felt the 
 Spirit of the Lord impressing me to preach against all the evils that 
 affect the peace of Zion ; and sometimes my soul was enabled to 
 rejoice exceedingly. For want of room, however, the particulars 
 of only two of these meetings are given. 
 
 A powerful revival followed a two days' meeting I attended in 
 Fryburg, Sept. 10 and 11, at which much of the presence of God 
 was enjoyed, ai|^ his word was like arrows in the hearts of sin- 
 ners. 
 
266 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 Sept 16, I preached in Limerick. After sermon, my friend, 
 Samuel Beede, related an interesting experience, and desired to be 
 baptized. He was received by the church ; we repaired to a beau- 
 tiful stream, and it became my delightful duty to baptize him. He 
 came out of the water praising the Lord, and went on his way re- 
 joicing. Glory to God for the blessings of this day. May God 
 preserve him and me, and all saints blameless, to the coming of 
 our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. 
 
 A little previous to Mr. Beede's baptism, he wrote to Mr. Marks 
 a brief sketch of his religious exercises after his conversion, some 
 extracts from which, for reasons already mentioned, it is thought 
 will not be deemed foreign to this work. 
 
 Sandwich, Aug. 1831. 
 Dear Brother, 
 
 Directly after the interview I had with you after the General 
 Ck)nference in 1828, I commenced, as you advised me, striving to 
 know and walk in the good and perfect way, carefully studying the 
 Scriptures, endeavoring to find and follow the precepts and exam- 
 ple of Jesus. I usually read a portion of the New Testament 
 every day, as it came in course, for a devotional exercise, medita- 
 tion, and instruction. Soon my mind was led to add still another 
 method of studying the Bible doctrine ; which was, with the help 
 of the Concordance, to search for the Scripture testimony on par- 
 ticular subjects, or points of doctrine, and arrange all the passages 
 relative to those points in such a manner that I could at once ex- 
 amine all that the Scripture says on the subject both for and 
 against ; and then I applied myself with careful study and medita- 
 tion, and with a prayerful heart to be enlightened into an under- 
 standing of the word, as the Holy Ghost intended it. In doing 
 this, my soul has been blessed with joy unspeakable, that makes 
 me willing to forego all earthly considerations, that I may gain 
 experimentally a knowledge of God, and his ways, and his will 
 concerning me. In connection with the above exercises, I have 
 also been constrained to practice much secret devotion, to attend 
 meetings very constantly, and converse much with mourners and 
 converts ; and also to endeavor to become established in practical 
 holiness, so as to render righteous ways as natural and righteous 
 actions as habitual to me as the deeds of unrighteousness fonnerly 
 were. In the meantime, I have not neglected to cultivate an ac- 
 quaintance with the Free-will Baptists, who have been nearer to 
 me than any other people^ or even my nearest kindred according to 
 the flesh. * * * * 
 
 As to public speaking, I have expected and i% expect that the 
 Lord will give me something to do. There is no exercise of the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 267 
 
 human faculties that ever so delighted me from a child to this day, 
 as that of preaching, and none in which I ever thought I should 
 be so happy, as in being a herald for Jesus, a proclaimer of the 
 everlasting gospel. But latterly, when I have contemplated the 
 state of my health — my lungs subject to almost perpetual inflam- 
 mation through very small degrees of exposure — and my nervous 
 system so broken to pieces, as for a great part of the time to par- 
 alyze all the energies of moral, mental, and bodily action, I have 
 concluded the Lord had designed me to act in some other sphere 
 of usefulness to his creatures, than in public speaking. Then again, 
 when I have meditated on the provisions of the glorious gospel, 
 and have seen the deplorable state of perishing sinners, dying ! 
 — dying I — dying ! — with a rich and ample feast spread at their 
 door, and urging admittance — then when I have had a view of the 
 infinite — the infinitely infinite — mercies of God to me, in having 
 mercy on so poor, wicked, undone, and blasphemous a wretch as 
 myself — O wretch that I am ! have I exclaimed ; most merciful 
 Lord God, shall I reason thus ? Shall I decline using my shatter- 
 ed faculties in thy service, merely because their better days and 
 more vigorous exertion have been spent in the service of satan ? 
 O ! no. " Here am I, send me," for if my powers are half of them 
 lost, it is no reason that I should not spend the rest in thy service, 
 in warning such poor w^retches as I once was, and — but for the 
 mercy of Infinite Love — am now. Sometimes when I have seen 
 the leaders of the people, who ought to be fathers in Zion, dealing 
 out to the young shepherds, and the tender lambs, instead of the 
 bread of life, poison ! poison I poison 1 — and shall I say damna- 
 ble heresies? — when I have seen these things, my spirit has been 
 stirred within me, sleep has departed from my eyes ; and could the 
 briny pillows speak they would bear witness to the nightly sorrows 
 of my soul. Then I have queried, can I ever content myself to 
 labor with the dumb and unfeeling language of the pen, while oth- 
 ers are engaged in the open field ? No — my heart has said, rath- 
 er let me be placed in the front of the battle — in view of the ene- 
 my, where I can come in open contact, and openly oppose him in 
 defence of precious souls. Sometimes I have longed to become a 
 member of the Free-will Baptist denomination and labor with all 
 my powers, and wear out my life in defence of the gospel. * * 
 Your brother in tribulation, 
 
 Samuel Beede. 
 
^6d MEMOIRS OF 
 
 CHAPTER XXIY. 
 
 Particulars of Mr. Marks' labors, sickness, ^c. together with ex- 
 tracts from his correspondence from the close of his "Nar- 
 rative'' as published by himself September 1831, to October 
 1832. 
 
 The preceding chapters contain, in an abridged form, the narra- 
 tive of Mr. Marks' labors, as published by himself in the year 
 1831. For a few months afterwards, he generally kept a regular 
 journal ; but as he has recorded nothing of the causes which di- 
 rected his subsequent course, it is deemed proper to state them 
 briefly, before resuming the thread of the narrative ; also to intro- 
 duce frequent explanatory paragraphs, together with extracts from 
 his correspondence, in connection with his journal. 
 
 At this period. Free-will Baptists, as a denomination, had engag- 
 ed in but few of those benevolent enterprises which distinguish the 
 operations of the church in the present day, and which have so 
 greatly enlarged the sphere of her usefulness. The Morning Star, 
 however, (which had been published since 1826 by a company of 
 brethren at Limerick, Me. under the patronage of the denomina- 
 tion and devoted to its interests,) advocated gospel order, temperance, 
 missions, Sabbath schools, education, and improvement generally; and 
 there were many ministers and others in different parts of the con- 
 nexion who were warm friends of these causes, and were laboring for 
 their promotion. The subject of these Memoirs, hitherto seems to have 
 had his mind mostly engrossed with one idea — the immediate con- 
 version of souls ; and for the attainment of this object, he had di- 
 rected his whole studies and energies. His mind had now become 
 painfully exercised with the state of the denomination to which he 
 was in sentiment and in heart much attached. His extensive trav- 
 els and labors had given him an opportunity to see that something 
 must be done efficiently and immediately, or the denomination would 
 be rent asunder by many schisms. Inaction in the cause of mis- 
 sions, education, support of the ministry, &c. had opened the way 
 for the introduction of many evils, disheartened some of the most 
 talented and intelligent ministers, and prevented the union of ma- 
 ny with the denomination, who had been converted under the la- 
 bors of its faithful preachers. Indeed, he had seen a great share 
 of the fruits of his own toils, from the above named causes, gath- 
 ered into other churches of dissimilar sentiments. False ideas on 
 fundamental points of faith were also exerting an influence. In a 
 few sections, Unitarian views of the character of Christ and the 
 
DAVID MABKS. 269 
 
 doctrine of the annihilation of the wicked had obtained place in the 
 minds of some through the preaching of Elias Smith, not far from 
 the time of the rise of the sect called Christians. Mr. Smith was 
 refused admission into the Free-will Baptist denomination, on ac- 
 count of his sentiments. 
 
 Although Mr. Marks was deprived of early literary privileges, 
 as the reader of the preceding pages has seen, the absence of 
 educational advantages was, in his case, in a measure, compensated 
 by an unusual activity of mind, and a plodding perseverance, which 
 would not yield to obstacles. Still he was ever a close Biblical 
 student, and to this, no doubt, with the Divine blessing, is to be at- 
 tributed his great success in winning souls. He had committed to 
 memory the writings of the four Evangelists, Acts and Romans, 
 and so ready and retentive was his memory, that, if a passage was 
 named in either of these books, he could in a moment tell the chap- 
 ter and verse, or if any particular chapter or verse was called for, 
 he could instantly repeat it. He had also, without an instructor, 
 and mostly while walking or riding, become well acquainted with 
 several English branches, and had acquired sufficient knowledge of 
 Greek to read in the New Testament with the aid of a lexicon. 
 Highly as he valued knowledge, and diligent as he was in its ac- 
 quisition, still he had not been much awake to the importance of a 
 thoroughly educated ministry. Engaged constantly in preaching 
 himself, he seldom listened to a sermon, and was little aware to what 
 an extent study was neglected among Free-will Baptist ministers. 
 Grieved by the little spirituality and success that attended the labors 
 of most of those he had known who had pursued the usual course of 
 study in our Theological schools, he had imbibed the impression 
 that their course of discipline had a tendency to destroy spirituali- 
 ty instead of increasing it, and for a time he had prejudice against 
 such institutions. 
 
 The subject of missions had engaged little of his attention. Not 
 that the conversion of the world was not an object for which at any 
 time he would have laid down his life, but the slanders of the en- 
 emies of missions repeated to him by Christians, produced an ap- 
 pathy in his mind on this subject. Consequently he had interest- 
 ed himself little in reading the reports of missionary operations. 
 The temperance cause had his sympathies from its commence- 
 ment. 
 
 After his mind became painfully anxious about the state of his 
 beloved people, he used often to unbosom his feelings to his friend, 
 S. Beede, who, instead of trying to console him with a hope of a 
 better state of things, set himself to present existing evils in a still 
 stronger light, till sometimes Mr. Marks' agony of soul was almost 
 oyerpowering. But his was a spirit that could not sink under dif- 
 23* 
 
27^0 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ficulties, nor give up in despair. He set himself to study careful- 
 ly the cause of the evils and their remedy. Thus was his mind 
 prei^ared to examine, with careful attention, several articles that 
 appeared about this time in the Morning Star on the establishment 
 of a " Book Concern," the first of which was written by Mr. 
 William Burr. These much interested him, particularly several 
 
 anonymous communications, signed B n.* He thought he 
 
 saw in a well regulated Book Concern, a bond that would tend to 
 unite the denomination, and would afford an antidote to many 
 evils. This subject he often discussed with Mr. Beede, and final- 
 ly they, with others, matured a plan which they thought would suc- 
 ceed, provided they could gain the approbation of the General 
 Conference, which was to meet in a few days. 
 
 The following is a continuation of Mr. Marks' journal, in an 
 abridged form, from the closing date of the preceding chapter. 
 
 "September 17 and 18, I attended the Maine Western yearly 
 meeting in Buxton. Fifteen ordained ministers were present and 
 several hundred people more than could be convened in the meet- 
 ing house. I preached twice during the session. My mind was 
 made very solemn by the news that the Indian cholera, the over- 
 flowing scourge that had swept through the old world, had entered 
 New Brunswick. I endeavored in my preaching to improve these 
 tidings to the good of souls. The assembly seemed much affected. 
 I next went to Sandwich, N. H. to attend a " four days' meeting," 
 which by request I had appointed three months before. I preach- 
 ed in Ossipee by the way. Several came forward for prayer, and 
 one young lady promised to seek the Lord till she found him. Sev- 
 eral ministers attended the meeting in Sandwich, some of whom 
 preached during its progi'ess. On the Sabbath, twelve or fifteen 
 hundred people attended, and great solemnity rested on the assem- 
 bly. A number came forward to manifest that they were decided 
 to attend to the salvation of their souls. Sabbath evening, I 
 preached in Ossipee, and found the young lady who made a cov- 
 enant to seek the Lord indulging a joyful hope. Several present- 
 ed themselves for prayer, and a little boy following me out of the 
 house, weeping, gave me his hand and said, " Will you pray for 
 me?" 
 
 The fourth session of the General Conference, to be held in 
 Wilton, Me. was drawing near. Having been appointed a del- 
 egate by the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, Monday, Sept. 26, 
 I commenced journeying in that direction, accompanied by my 
 
 * Tliese articles were written by S. Beede at the solicitation of Mr. Burr, but no oth- 
 er person knew the author till the hour Mr. Beede was dying. Mr. Burr then reveal- 
 ed it, feeling that he was absolved from the injunction of secrecy Mr. Beede laid upon 
 him. 
 
DAVID MAftKS. 271 
 
 companion, having appointments by the way previously notified. 
 During the seven days ensuing, I held meetings in Limerick, Port- 
 land, Brunswick, Topsham, Gardiner, and several other towns. In 
 Topsham, I was filled with sorrow and weeping for perishing sin- 
 ners. After facing for about fifty miles one of the severest storms 
 of rain and sleet I ever knew^, I arrived in Wilton, Oct. 12. 
 Col. Charles Morse had made provision to entertain all the mem- 
 bers of the Conference at his own expense, and had furnished a 
 large chamber for convening its sessions, so that the meeting house 
 might be free for public worship." 
 
 The business of the Conference was conducted with much har- 
 mony. A question was proposed from the Holland Purchase year- 
 ly meeting, inquiring, "What do Free-will Baptists believe to be 
 the Scripture doctrine with regard to the character and ofiices of 
 Christ ?" H. Hobbs, S. Beede, and D. Marks were appointed 
 a committee to prepare a reply. S. Beede drafted a very able ar- 
 ticle, showing that Christ was " God manifest in the flesh," that he 
 was " the true God and eternal life," which perfectly accorded 
 with the views of the other members of the committee. The re- 
 port was received unanimously by the Conference. 
 
 The subject of a " Book Concern" was presented and referred 
 to a committee of three, viz. E. Place, D. Marks, and S. Beede, 
 who made the following report, which passed the Conference : 
 
 " Agreed, that in our opinion, the establishment of a Book Con- 
 cern on a scale sufficiently extensive to answer the demands of our 
 connexion for books is desirable. And we believe that such an es- 
 tablishment, suitably encouraged and supported, would contribute 
 as much to usefulness in our churches, and aid as much in spread- 
 ing Christian knowledge in the world, as any other single course 
 of measures that we can, under the present circumstances, pursue. 
 But as we know of no advisable means, whereby we can at present 
 furnish ourselves with funds that would be necessary to commence 
 the establishment on a large scale, we think it proper to appoint 
 some brother a Book Agent, to officiate and act for us till the next 
 General Conference ; and that said agent publish for the Conference 
 such books as they may direct, and hold himself responsible to the 
 Conference for his doings ; and also be responsible for all con- 
 tracts made by him relative to publishing books ; and that he be 
 authoi-ized to take the necessary and prudent measures for selling 
 such books as may be published ; and at the next Conference pre- 
 sent a full report of his doings, and the circumstances of the Book 
 Concern intrusted to his charge." See Minutes of fifth General 
 Conference, page 8. 
 
 Mr. Marks was then chosen Book Agent, and H. Hobbs, S. 
 Beede, and Wm. Burr, a " Publishing and Advisory Committee 
 
272 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 on the Book Concern and book agency, with instructions to direct 
 the Book Agent to publish for and on behalf of the Conference, 
 such books as they may deem it suitable and expedient to be so 
 published, and to advise with him relative to the sales." 
 
 The following reference to this subject was made in the circular. 
 
 " Having taken the subject of a Book Concern into consideration, 
 we are of the opinion that an establishment of this kind would be 
 very useful to our connexion. And as no ready means appeared 
 whereby we might obtain funds to commence on a very extensive 
 scale, we have thought proper to appoint a Publishing Committee, 
 to select and direct the publication of such books as they may think 
 suitable and necessary. We have also appointed a Book Agent to 
 publish for the Conference such books as the Publishing Commit- 
 tee shall direct, and, with the advice of the committee, to sell them, 
 and account to the Conference for all the profits that may arise 
 from the sales. 
 
 After consulting men who are experienced in book business, we 
 have thought, that a Book Concern, begun in this small way, and 
 extended as the profits arising from sales should furnish means, 
 might be as likely to succeed, and eventually arise to its desired 
 usefulness, as it would be, if we should depend on obtaining dona- 
 tions from our brethren for its first establishment. We can but 
 hope, therefore, that our brethren will use their influence to en- 
 courage and support our first humble attempts at a Book Concern." 
 See Minutes, page 11. 
 
 Mr. Marks entered immediately upon the duties of his new of- 
 fice, but did not in the meantime intermit in the least his labors in 
 preaching and visiting the churches, as his journal will show ; on 
 the contrary, he diligently improved these opportunities in creating 
 an interest in the important enterprise in which he had just en- 
 gaged. He opened an extensive correspondence with leading indi- 
 viduals in every part of the denomination, and sought out channels 
 whereby every church might be supplied with the productions is- 
 suing from the Book Concern. To this end he appointed assistant 
 agents in every section, to whom books might be sent, A few small 
 works were immediately issued. As no one hymn book had ob- 
 tained general use in the denomination, there seemed a loud call 
 for one embodying such sentiments as were congenial with its views, 
 and worthy of general patronage. Accordingly, it was decided by 
 the Publishing Committee and Agent, that such a book should be 
 prepared, and the work of preparation was assigned to S. Beede. 
 As its publication could not be effected on credit, and was going to 
 involve considerable expense, a prospectus was issued for obtaining 
 subscribers. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 273 
 
 It may be proper to state that Mr. Marks had had some expe- 
 rience in publishing books. The contributions of friends falling far 
 short of meeting his travelling expenses, and being compelled to 
 do something to supply this deficiency, he resorted to the publica- 
 tion of religious books, as this business, besides furnishing him with 
 means for travelling, aided him in the great work of spreading re- 
 ligious knowledge. The principal w^orks he had published, were, 
 Life of John Colby, Buzzell's hymn book, and a Conference Meet- 
 ing hymn book, compiled by himself. They were printed in Roch- 
 ester, N. Y. Seventeen thousand copies of his Conference Meeting 
 hymn book were sold. 
 
 The following are extracts from his journal continued from the 
 time of the Conference. 
 
 " Meetings of worship had been held through the sessions of 
 the Conference, which continued till Saturday noon, September 1 6. 
 I preached in the afternoon with considerable freedom, and in the 
 evening, spoke again at a village a few miles distant. On the Sab- 
 bath, such crowds assembled from different towns that they were 
 obliged to convene in two places. It fell to my lot to preach at 
 one in the forenoon and at the other in the afternoon. It pleased 
 the Lord to give me more than usual liberty, and the assemblies 
 were much impressed. Scores of souls had been recently conver- 
 ted in Wilton, so that there was not that opportunity for the spread 
 of a revival that there had been. Still signs of good were mani- 
 fest, and anxious inquirers presented themselves for prayer. Mon- 
 day, after preaching again, I left Wilton to attend the first session 
 of the Wolfborough quarterly meeting to meet October 23, at Os- 
 sipee, N. H. and held meetings by the w^ay in Windham, Buxton, 
 and Limerick. Saturday evening, I gave a discourse at the quar- 
 terly meeting, and named various things which my views of duty 
 compelled me to preach against. Among these was Free Masonry. 
 After meeting Dr. C. asked me, if I knew anything about Free 
 Masonry. I told him I did. He asked, " How ?" I said, " By the 
 testimony of many thousands of seceding masons." He replied, 
 " You know nothing about it." I asked him if he knew there was 
 such a city as New York. He answered, " They say there is." 
 " But," I inquired, " do you know there is ?" " No," w^as his re- 
 ply. Then I said ; " If I know nothing about Masonry, people do 
 not know any thing except what they have seen with their eyes, 
 and none but such as have been to New York, London, or Paris, 
 know that there are such cities. What an ignorant world this 
 must be, if knowledge has the limits which the masonic fraternity 
 would fain make many believe. Sir, did you ever see a man steal ? 
 Should you hear me preach against thefl, adultery or murder, 
 would you admonish me and say, " Preach against those things 
 
274 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 you know ?" He asked, " What has the gospel to do with Free 
 Masonry ?" I answered, " It has nothing to do with it, neither with 
 other abominations, except that it is revealed against all unrighte- 
 ousness of men, therefore I preach against Free Masonry as I do 
 against other sins." He replied, " Preaching against Free Mason- 
 ry is preaching up for Clay, and you had better be preaching the 
 gospel." 
 
 After holding meetings in Ossipee and Wakefield, October 27, 
 I went to the village of Great Falls, where I had an appointment, 
 but found it had not been notified. I was itiformed that as there 
 was a great excitement among the Masons, on account of my 
 preaching against Free Masonry in this place the spring previous, 
 the minister, who was a Mason, and the male members of the Free- 
 will Baptist church, thought it not expedient for me to preach with 
 them. This was said to be the first instance in which a Free-will 
 Baptist church had closed its doors against a minister of the gos- 
 pel, though the denomination had been in existence about fifty 
 years." 
 
 Shortly after this, Mr. Marks received a very excellent letter 
 from his friend Beede in reference to this affair, designed to 
 strengthen him in his warfare with iniquity in high places, from 
 which the following is an extract. 
 
 "I was pleased with hearing of your welfare and prosperity in 
 the truth ; and not in any small degree was I rejoiced at the int-el- 
 ligence of your success at the Great Falls — not by any means that 
 I rejoice in iniquity, but knowing that the whole world lieth in 
 wickedness, I am consoled with the thought that some of the Lord's 
 servants are yet willing to hold up the standard of righteousness 
 and proclaim the unmixed gospel of Jesus to perishing mortals. 
 Christ said of the wicked, they have hated me, and they will hate 
 you. Whatever minister of Jesus will dare rightly to divide the 
 word of truth, and preach Bible doctrine, as did the prophets, 
 Christ, and his apostles, will surely meet with opposition from ?m- 
 Christlike professors, and from those who love darkness rather than 
 light, because their deeds are evil. This is a necessary conse- 
 quence ; for God and satan are at enmity, and so must their chil- 
 dren be. There can be no greater delusion than to suppose that 
 Christians can earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the 
 saints, and at the same time preserve peace and friendship with the 
 devil and his children. Such preachers as ww-Christlike profes- 
 ors applaud, and lovers of pleasure admire, such as satan is at peace 
 with, such as his servants have not open hostility with, have full 
 reason to suspect that they possess more the nature of the minis- 
 ters of satan in disguise than of the true ministers of Jesus. My 
 dear brother David, for more than three years my humble prayer 
 
DAVID MARKS. 275 
 
 to the Lord has been that he may enable you to understand, to 
 practice, and to preach the pure gospel of Christ ; and that his 
 temper, his manner, and his example may be your undivided pat* 
 tern of life and conduct in all cases, times, and occasions. This 
 being the case, the world cannot be at peace with you ; for it could 
 not with Jesus, and never can it be any more at peace with his fol- 
 lowers than with him. If you follow the Savior, wicked men and 
 devils will hate you still more — the division between you and them 
 will be still wider, and the opposition and persecution you will ex- 
 perience from them will be more severe than you have yet received. 
 May God give you wisdom, strengthen, and establish you in every 
 good work. * * * * Farewell. 
 
 Your unworthy brother in tribulation, 
 
 Samuel Beede." 
 
 Mr. Marks, in his public labors, neither courted controversy nor 
 opposition. He greatly loved the good opinion of his brethren, 
 but he loved the interests of Christ's kingdom far better, and when 
 he thought these demanded his testimony, he knew nothing of that 
 cautious prudence that dreads saying aught, lest he should be ex- 
 posed to censure. In such cases, he was always courageous and li- 
 on-hearted ; at the same time there were often blended a gentle 
 tenderness and affectionate manner that rendered his severe and 
 pointed rebukes of sin very effective. 
 
 Journal. " After preaching in Dover, I attended a " three days' 
 meeting" at Strafford, in Elder Place's congregation, commencing 
 Friday, October 29. It was a season of great power. More than 
 forty came forward for prayer, and some were converted. Among 
 these was a son of Elder John Buzzell ; he was very happy. On 
 the Sabbath, the congregation consisted of about eight hundred and 
 fifty persons : of these seven hundred and fifty arose to manifest 
 that they were professors of religion. Oct. 31, Leaving Straf- 
 ford, I met appointments daily for four days. In this time, I had 
 a very pleasant interview with my friend D. P. Cilley, in Notting- 
 ham. I believe the Lord is calling him into his vineyard, though 
 he is hardly willing to acknowledge it. I had a close and faithful 
 talk with him. 
 
 Friday, Nov. 4, 1831. This day closes the twenty-sixth year of 
 my life. O how many favors has the Lord shown his poor servant ! 
 I spent this day and the following at Raymond, at a " three days' 
 meeting." A brother was ordained, and it fell to my lot to preach 
 on the occasion. My subject was the duty of a bishop. Sabbath, 
 I preached twice in Dover, and in the evening at the Great Falls. 
 The meeting house being still closed, the meeting was held in a 
 large brick school house, which was filled to overflowing and many 
 went away because they could not get a place to stand within. I 
 
276 MEMOIRS OS* 
 
 spoke on tlie cross of Christ with much freedom. Although some 
 appeared contentious and uneasy at first, soon they paid good at- 
 tention. I understood, afterwards, that a mob was at the meeting 
 in readiness and determined to attack me, provided I said anything 
 against Free Masonry. It so happened that my mind was not led 
 at all to that subject. 
 
 Monday, Nov. 7. Setting out on a line of appointments to Rhode 
 Island, I met congregations in New Market and Exeter. In the 
 latter place, on a beautiful green, the great and good Whitefield 
 preached his last sermon the day before his death. To me it seem- 
 ed a consecrated spot. The next day I preached in Danville and 
 Haverhill, Wednesday evening in the Methodist chapel in Lowell, 
 the next evening in the Methodist chapel in Boston, and the day 
 following in Rehoboth and Attleborough, Mass. During the ensu- 
 ing eight days, I preached twelve sermons among the Rhode Island 
 churches, and often felt the power of God. Two churches, one in 
 Providence, the other in North Providence, which had formerly 
 received me very kindly, closed their doors against me on account 
 of my opposition to Free Masonry. These churches had Free- 
 will Baptist ministers for pastors, but did not belong to any denom- 
 ination. I went out into the street before the houses of the minis- 
 ters by whose consent the doors of these churches had been closed, 
 and according to the Scripture direction, wiped off the dust of my 
 feet for a testimony against them. Having done this, I left those 
 places enjoying great peace. 
 
 Monday, Nov. 21, we rode through the length of the island of R. 
 Island, a distance of 12 miles, and were delighted with the beautiful 
 order of the roads, farms, fences, &c. About two hundred years had 
 passed since this island was first settled, and the general appear- 
 ance of the farms surpassed any I had before seen. In the even- 
 ing, I preached to a large and attentive assembly in Newport, and 
 the next day left the island in a sail boat. There being a heavy 
 gale, the sea was very rough, and the crossing dangerous. In the 
 evening, I met an assembly in Pawtucket, and the next evening 
 heard a very interesting sermon in Park street church in Boston, 
 from the celebrated revivalist, Mr. C. G. Finney, a Presbyterian 
 minister from New York. His text was, " I knew thee that thou 
 wast a hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering 
 where thou hast not strewed." He preached a free salvation, and 
 the freedom of the human will as strongly as any Free-will Bap- 
 tist I ever heard. Blessed be God, the popular orders are coming 
 to our aid. 
 
 Passing through Newburyport and Portsmouth, I attended three 
 days at a protracted meeting in Kittery, Me. in accordance with a 
 previous engagement, and preached six sermone. The Lord bless- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 27? 
 
 ed the meeting, and made it a precious season. Between twenty 
 and thirty anxious souls came forward for prayer, and several pro- 
 fessed to find peace in believing. Tuesday, Nov. 29, I attended a 
 meeting at Great Falls. The Free-will Baptist meeting house 
 was still closed against me, unless I would promise that I would 
 not preach against Masonry, or any thing else that would " disturb 
 the harmony of society." So I preached again in the school house 
 to a crowded assembly with great freedom. The season was very 
 impressive. I understood a great part of the Free-will Baptist 
 church was present, and that they were much tried because the 
 house of worship was not opened. Many, weeping, gave me their 
 hands. The day following, I went to Rochester, where I under- 
 stood the Methodist house was closed on account of my testimony 
 against Free Masonry. The court house, however, was opened, 
 and the people heard the word attentively. A revival was pro- 
 gressing. During the remainder of the week, I met five appoint- 
 ments in Lebanon, Farmington, Alton Bay, and Meredith. In 
 these meetings several were awakened. Passing through New 
 Durham, we saw an old meeting house, which we were informed 
 was the first ever under the control of Free-will Baptists. It was 
 built originally for the Congregationalists, but as nearly all the peo- 
 ple became Free-will Baptists, it fell to them. 
 
 December 4, we rode ten miles in a tedious snow storm to Hol- 
 derness, where I preached three sermons. The next day, I was 
 suddenly seized with an ague fit, and was immediately confined to 
 the bed. I had from one to two appointments each day for many 
 weeks to come, but there was no alternative. I was obliged to 
 yield to sickness, and was confined to my bed for six days with a 
 severe influenza, and endured much physical suffering. My com- 
 panion was also sick with the same disease. The brethren in Hol- 
 derness were very kind, and did many things for us gladly. When 
 Sabbath, Dec. 11, came, my soul was so full that it seemed as if I 
 could not be denied the privilege of preaching. Accordingly, a 
 meeting was notified at the house ; but after I had spoken about 
 fifteen minutes, my strength so failed that I was glad to take the 
 bed. Reluctant to disappoint any congregation that I could meet, 
 we left Holderness in a covered sleigh, the Tuesday following, 
 contrary to the remonstrances of kind friends, and were enabled, 
 without apparent injury, to reach my appointment the ensuing Sab- 
 bath in HoUis, near Portland, Me. I had been obliged to disap- 
 point thirteen assemblies. The next evening I commenced preach- 
 ing to a congregation in Waterborough ; but after speaking a few 
 minutes was so feeble that I was obliged to leave the meeting and 
 take the bed. The day following, however, I met with the Pub- 
 lishing Committee in Limerick, and, during the week, attended four 
 24 
 
2.78 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 appointments. My friends in Limerick and vicinity received me 
 with unusual joy, having heard that I was dead. An individual 
 circulated the report, saying that he assisted in preparing my body 
 for the coffin, and Elder Place preached my funeral sermon. The 
 Masons, I understood, received the news with great joy.. But, 
 thank God, 1 live, and through grace I hope to injure the kingdom 
 of darkness still more. 
 
 Sabbath, Dec. 18, I attended a very interesting church confer- 
 ence in Parsonsfield. Elder John Buzzell stated that he had been 
 in the town more than thirty years, and in the time had witnessed 
 in it eleven revivals — that several churches (I think seven) had 
 been set off from this, and still their number was two hundred and 
 fifty-seven, every one of whom was in good standing in the church. 
 My appointments now called me toward Lisbon, in the north part 
 of New Hampshire, where I had allotted to myself the first week 
 in January for rest. The rumor of my death preceded me, and in 
 some places people seemed almost frightened, and gazed upon me 
 as though they were actually looking upon one that had arisen 
 from the dead. Large congregations, however, generally conven- 
 ed, and in one instance, friends came the distance of twenty miles 
 to ascertain whether I was still living. The travelling was exces- 
 sively tedious, as a very deep snow had fallen, and the roads were 
 little broken, yet we were enabled to reach Lisbon in safety. 
 
 Sabbath, Jan. 1, 1832. Thanks be to God for the preservation 
 of our lives through another year. How quickly has it passed ! 
 O, what have I done for God ! Of how little use have been my 
 feeble efforts, compared to what they might have been, had I loved 
 God with all my heart, and used " all diligence. ^^ Now another 
 year has begun. How shall I spend it, should it please my Heav- 
 enly Father to spare my life ? Lord, help me to devote every mo- 
 ment to thee, and with an undivided heart submit myself entirely, 
 soul, body, and spirit, to thy most holy work. Do thou, O my 
 blessed Master, teach me and help me to win souls to thee and 
 thee only. Amen. The meeting house in Lisbon was this day 
 crowded to overflowing, and the Lord gave me a message to the 
 people. Since the commencement of the revival in June preced- 
 ing, more than two hundred had united with the church, and the 
 work had spread into the adjacent towns, till it was thought that 
 five hundred had " passed from death unto life." About the mid- 
 dle of this week, not having fully recovered from my sickness, I 
 took a violent cold from sleeping in damp sheets, and for the first 
 time was attacked with rheumatism. As exercise was prescribed 
 for an antidote, I passed the remainder of the week in usual activ- 
 ity, preaching some and visiting some. 
 
 Sabbath, Jan. 8, my appointments for two months commenced. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 279 
 
 extending through the south-east and east part of New Hamp- 
 shire, and a part of Maine, then in three weeks back to Lisbon, 
 and thence down through Vermont. Although my disorder had 
 become very severe, yet exercise having been constantly prescrib- 
 ed as the best remedy, I concluded to endeavor to attend my ap- 
 pointments. I was carried to the meeting house in Lisbon, and, 
 sitting in a chair, spoke more than an hour to about five hundred 
 people. Two brethren then accompanied me to Bath, fifteen miles. 
 When we arrived, I was carried into a house almost helpless. I 
 felt so ill that it seemed to me I could not sit up any longer ; but 
 as a large concourse had assembled, brethren urged my being car- 
 ried to the house of worship, saying, if I could speak five minutes, 
 the people would feel satisfied. I finally assented, and being set 
 down, preached an hour with very solemn feelings. After meeting 
 I was laid upon a bed, and it was now no longer a subject of query 
 whether I should proceed to my appointments. A violent rheu- 
 matic fever had fastened on my system, and for six days I was en- 
 tirely helpless ; some of the time unable to move even a finger. 
 Until now I had never known pain. The least movement produced 
 the most excruciating distress, and yet I could not lie long in one 
 position without fainting. Some of the time it took six or seven to 
 take care of me. Finally, by keeping my system in a state of con- 
 stant perspiration, and the use of Dr. Jenning's spirit vapor bath, 
 I became relieved, and the sixth day turned myself in bed. I 
 amended so rapidly, that in three days I could stand ; in three 
 more I walked a few steps, and in the evening preached three 
 quarters of an hour to a considerable number who assembled in 
 my room. In this sickness, I enjoyed the sweetest consolations. 
 
 Saturday, Jan. 21, I rode to Coventry, and preached, sitting, 
 nearly an hour. Sabbath, I spoke to a very crowded assembly at 
 Swift Water village, in Bath, and the next day, about two weeks 
 from my first confinement, I accompanied two brethren to Lisbon, 
 who came to assist me in returning to that place. During the 
 week I attended three meetings, and on the Sabbath preached an 
 ordination sermon. The time for my appointments, leading from 
 Lisbon through Vermont, had now come ; but, being too feeble to 
 journey and preach daily, I engaged a minister to go in my stead 
 eight days, and in the mean time I attended his appointments in 
 Lisbon. 
 
 Tuesday, Feb. 6. Thinking that my health was now so much 
 recovered that with care and prudence I could safely travel, and 
 the interests of the infant Book Concern loudly demanding my ac- 
 tive efforts, I again resumed travelling, accompanied by my com- 
 panion, and taking with me a brother to wait upon me. On this 
 day, though the road was hilly and the snow path little broken, we 
 
280 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 rode forty miles, and I preached at evening, and next day spoke to 
 two congregations without fatigue. Thursday evening, I preached 
 in Washington in a cold house, though I had taken the precaution 
 to request that it be well warmed. During my sermon I was seiz- 
 ed with chills. I soon felt a return of rheumatic pains, and passed 
 the night in distress. The next day, I rode twenty miles to Col. 
 Arnold's in Randolph, and preached at evening. Saturday and 
 Sabbath, I preached in the same place, when my complaint so re- 
 turned upon me that I was again confined to my bed. I now 
 recalled my appointments, and determined to give out no more till 
 my health became more firm. The use of Dr. Jenning's bath 
 again relieved me from pain, and while I was indulging hopes of a 
 speedy recovery, suddenly my mind became confused, my memory 
 was gone, and soon I was insensible. When I was again conscious, 
 I saw that my room was full of people who were weeping. I con- 
 cluded that I had been deranged, and had now recovered my senses 
 just before I was to die. Recognizing my companion, who was 
 standing by me, pale and trembling, I obtained from her a promise 
 that she would trust in the Lord, and took my leave of her, expect- 
 ing in a few moments to be in the " spirit-land." The query now 
 rushed upon me, ' how have I spent my time since I was called in- 
 to the ministry ?' ^ Have I done the work of the Lord faithfully ?' 
 Listantly, my testimony against Free Masonry, for which I had 
 suffered most, and then my whole life passed in review before me ; 
 and, O the sweet peace, the heavenly rapture, that ravished my 
 soul. My blessed Lord was my witness that I had never failed to 
 preach a sermon, that I thought was my duty to preach, neither 
 shunned to declare his counsel against every thing that affected the 
 welfare of souls, however contrary it had been to the feelings of my 
 dear brethren. Looking out of the window, the snow-white fields 
 of Vermont seemed to blaze with the glory of God, and my tongue 
 was unloosed to declare his amazing goodness. Some present, who 
 doubted the reality of religion, I understood, had their hearts 
 touched. In half an hour, however, I was as well as before this 
 attack, and from this time gained rapidly. As in other places 
 where I had been sick, so in this place. Christian friends seemed to 
 know no weariness in their kind attentions. How often has God 
 verified to me the promise, " He that hath left house, or home, or 
 
 brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother for my name's sake, 
 
 shall receive a hundred fold in this hfe." 
 
 About this time Mr. Marks received a letter from Mr. Beede, 
 his ever watchful friend, partly on the subject of health, which 
 awakened his attention somewhat to the study of physiology. He 
 wrote : 
 
DAVID MARtS. 281 
 
 Dear Brother, 
 
 * * * * j^ rejoices me to hear of your improved 
 state of health. Previous to your last communication, much anxi- 
 ety had been indulged in regard to your recovery, which is now 
 measurably relieved. I thank the Lord for his unmerited kindness 
 in raising you up again for a help to Zion. That a life of useful- 
 ness may be long continued to you, has been my earnest desire, 
 especially as the church is in so much need of your labors. With 
 a view to this, I have wished that you might be relieved from the 
 corpulent habit of body to which you have been considerably in- 
 clined. If no exuberancy of flesh Avere attached to your system, 
 you would be less liable to disease, not so susceptible of fatigue 
 through your labors, nor so much disposed to premature decay of 
 the constitution. Obesity may readily be reduced without endan- 
 gering health. It only requires a regular systematic regimen in 
 diet, sleep, and exercise. Very sparing indulgence in meats, drinks, 
 and sleep, with much exercise, will seldom fail to reduce effectu- 
 ally the most corpulent, and Mall secure an acquisition of health, 
 strength, and vigor, both of body and mind. Sudden changes, how- 
 ever, must not be resorted to ; but a gradual reduction of the sub- 
 stantial amount of food, drink, &c. This might be accomplished 
 without extremely painful sensations, by reducing first the quality 
 rather than the quantity of food ; that is, by taking the same bulk, 
 but a less nutritious kind. For instance, grains instead of flesh — 
 esculent roots instead of bread — ^the coarser and simpler dishes of 
 every kind instead of those more richly prepared. The more 
 coarse and simple the better, not only for the corpulent but for- 
 others. For want of some such attention to abstinence, disorders 
 of mind and body must inevitably ensue. First in the train of 
 consequences, are stupidity of mind, languor, deficiencies in the di- 
 gestive and perspiratory functions, including colds, inflamed lungs, 
 and the entire families of dyspepsies and liver affections. In reg- 
 ular succession, follow fevers, a numerous class of nervous disor- 
 ders, with unnumbered other evils — lastly, premature derange- 
 ments of both bodily and mental faculties, premature advances of 
 old age and of death. For more than half the evils of disease, 
 man may doubtless justly consider himself indebted to his own 
 abuse of meats and drinks, and for a large portion of the other 
 half, to abuse of sleep, clothing and exercise. * * * * I con- 
 sider occasional attacks of illness inseparable from the course of 
 life that duty points out for you to pursue ; yet I do firmly believe 
 that you might adopt an improvement in your habits of living and 
 of exercise, for instance, subjecting yourself to less exposures, 
 which would greatly promote unimpaired health, vigor and strength 
 of mind, serve to continue your life much longer, and greatly in- 
 
 24* 
 
MEMOIRS OF 
 
 crease the amount of your usefulness in the cause of God. * * 
 
 * * * * 
 
 Since we parted, I have been afflicted with an influenza. I am 
 now approaching to health of body, though laboring under much 
 depression and discouragement of mind. Wlien the elements com- 
 bine in disorder and seize my mental faculties with ennui — when 
 all the passing events of moral agencies and the thousand circum- 
 stances attendant on life's concerns, apparently conspire against 
 me, and forbid any prospect of usefulness, either to myself or oth- 
 ei's, despondency and weaiiness of a life so unprofitable, prey on 
 aU my mortal powers with a very unhappy effect. Frequent days, 
 weeks, and months have I passed, and still do pass in such frames. 
 Look at my own heart — all is to be done. Look at a perishing 
 world of fellow sinners, dying for lack of knowledge — ^infinite la- 
 bors are needed for their salvation, yet I am feeble in body, and 
 sorely pressed with poverty. Look on Zion — behold her desolate^ 
 divided within herself, distracted with false doctrines, seduced by 
 the transformations of satan under the guise of the ministers of 
 Christ ; and so long practiced in tampering with error's drugs, that 
 her stomach loathes medicine from the true Physician, and cannot, 
 will not, bear a healthy regimen. Good Lord ! exclaims my heart, 
 why hast thou given my eyes to see these things, since I can in no 
 wise remedy them ? My heart is willing, but all else presents an 
 impenetrable barrier to usefulness on my part. Lord, I am sick 
 of the world— sick of life — weary with myself — weary with all 
 things but thee and thy saints — ^thy undefiled saints. I have none 
 but God in heaven or earth, to alleviate my woes by bearing a 
 part. I have none, when absent from you, to be a partner in sweet 
 counsel, and in holy friendship. * * * 
 
 I hope I have an interest in your prayers, for none are more 
 needy. Farewell, Yours in love, 
 
 S. Beede. 
 
 Mr. Marks replied as follows. 
 
 Tunbridge, Vt. Sat. Feb. 25, 1832. 
 My Dear Brother, 
 
 Mrs. Marks wrote you from Randolph, but I was so ill 
 that I knew little that she wrote. My relapse confined me in Ran- 
 dolph thirteen days. I came here yesterday, and have preached 
 one short discourse sitting in a chair. For a week past, I have 
 suffered little pain, but I remain very weak, and can bear little ex- 
 posure. I have felt great anxiety for the denomination — ^for the 
 Book Concern — ^for my printing debts at Limerick and Portland, 
 and particularly for my brother Samuel, since he has given up all 
 to serve the cause of Christ, I thought it needful that I use all 
 
DAVID MARKS. 283 
 
 diligence^ and lose no time, particularly on account of the hymn 
 book and on your account. But I have been compelled to yield as 
 one whose health is gone, and whose constitution is for the present 
 worn down, if not worn out. Sometimes, I have turned my face 
 to the wall and wept ; but in general I have felt sweet composure 
 in saying, " The will of the Lord be done." My heavenly Fath- 
 er knows what is best. In these seasons of weeping I have 
 thought, O that I could see brother Samuel. But the reflection 
 that you were engaged for the interests of Zion, reconciled me to 
 endure the long separation till it shall please God to bring us to- 
 gether. 
 
 I think it my duty to listen now to the repeated advice I have 
 had for years to be more watchful in the care of my health. If 
 this does not turn to my recovery, the will of the Lord be done. 
 Though I have been an unprofitable servant, through the grace of 
 God, I believe I can say in truth, " I am pure from the blood of 
 all men." Since my turns of severe illness this winter, I have sev- 
 eral times thought I might not recover ; but, blessed be God, in 
 the clearest views of my departure, I have felt sweet consolation 
 in the firm confidence that I have preached the truth as it is in 
 Jesus, and that I have received from God that preaching for which 
 I have been most persecuted, particularly my testimony against 
 Free Masonry, and against the spirit of pride and worldly popu- 
 larity, which so much prevail in the church. * * * 
 
 Your letter is just received. It is as cold water to the thirsty 
 soul, and has much increased my anxiety to see you. Your advice 
 with respect to dieting is very acceptable, and I have about come 
 to the conclusion to take up my cross and follow it. As to a lit- 
 erary institution, I wish one might be established, and I will do all 
 in my power consistently to forward it. It is now near meeting 
 time ; I intend to ride about sixty rods, and sit and preach once. 
 I hardly feel as well as I did yesterday, but if very careful I hope 
 I shall get along without another confinement. 
 
 I feel very thankful to God for the kindness he has shown us as 
 a people in sending brother Samuel to our help. My open manner 
 must have conveyed to you an idea of the esteem I have for your 
 talents and piety. While I have observed your humility, I have 
 felt almost as though it was impossible that pride should ever stain 
 your soul, or success elate your heart. I believe you have a mind 
 above such folly. Still I know your probation is not ended, and 
 neither you nor I have passed beyond temptations, dark, deceitful, 
 powerful. If you continue humble, and maintain a holy, fervent 
 breathing after God, and lean not to your own understanding, but 
 lean upon him that is Almighty, I doubt not but that you will be 
 more useful than any man that God has raised up among us. O, 
 
284 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 watch and pray. Pray for us that we may walk carefully before 
 God and before all men, that the cause be not blamed. Let us do 
 all things with great humility, patience, forbearance, and charity, 
 for in this day of schisms it is needful that we have in exer- 
 cise all the Christian virtues. Farewell. 
 
 Your affectionate brother in Christ, 
 
 D. Marks. 
 
 Journal. "I left Randolph, and till the early part of April was 
 engaged in preaching mostly in New Hampshire, in those places 
 where my sickness had obliged me to disappoint congregations. 
 The intervals were employed in writing to correspondents, in get- 
 ting subscribers for the new hymn book, and in laboring in various 
 ways to promote the interests of the Book Concern. I had to trav- 
 el slowly, as my strength would bear, and preach sitting in a chair. 
 In Alexandria, where I preached the May previous with such 
 views of the worth of the soul, [see page 258,] I found to my great 
 joy that about twenty had been converted, several of whom dated 
 their awakening at that meeting. Until now, I had not heard of 
 any fruits from that sermon ; but I had thought if there were not, 
 it would be strange indeed. At Great Falls, the meeting house 
 was opened to me, the church having sent me a written request to 
 preach in it. Thank God, for the victory of right principles." 
 
 The following are extracts from his letters, written during this 
 period, t^ken from copies kept in his possession. 
 
 Dear sister Gibbs, 
 
 Last evening we gladly received a letter from you, and 
 although it brought tidings of such afflictions as are frequent in the 
 church militant, we rejoiced to hear from you. Your letter brought 
 to our remembrance the sweet hours we have enjoyed under your 
 roof. 
 
 With regard to your inquiries concerning the doctrine of sancti- 
 fication, you say you have been told that Free-will Baptists do not 
 believe in it. This statement, without any qualification, is certain- 
 ly incorrect ; for we believe, or at least profess to believe, all the 
 doctrine which the Scriptures teach, and none can deny that this 
 doctrine is taught in the Bible. Sanctification signifies, first, to 
 separate and appoint any thing to a holy and religious use. God 
 sanctified the seventh day, also the first born of Israel, and thus 
 the temple, the priests, the garments, the altars, the sacrifices, and 
 all the cups, basins, and other furniture of the temple were sancti- 
 fied. Again, it signifies to cleanse a sinner from the pollution of 
 sin, to free him from its power, and give him a holy principle of 
 love to God and his creatures, and fit him for holy use. The doc- 
 trine of sanctification signifies being made holy. But there are de- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 285 
 
 grees in this work, or Paul would not have prayed God to sancti- 
 fy his Thessalonian brethren wholly. 1 Thess. 5:23. I believe 
 every Christian may be entirely sanctified in this life ; yea, I may 
 say further, that it is the duty and privilege of every saint to ob- 
 tain the entire victory over all sin, and that in whatever propor- 
 tion a soul approaches toward perfection, in the same degree he 
 approaches towards entire sanctification. Christ commands us to 
 be perfect. Matt. 5:48. None but infidels dare charge him with 
 having given a grievous command. Thou shalt love the Lord with 
 all thy heart, is a requirement of the gospel, and it is the blessed 
 privilege of the saint to obey the sacred injuction. If we do, we shall 
 then be sanctified wholly. Would to God that Christians would 
 more generally strive for this attainment. If they did, what hum- 
 ble and happy Christians should we see in our congregations. * 
 * * Yours in Christ, 
 
 D. Marks. 
 
 [To Elder Thomas Parker, Penfield.] 
 
 Fishersfield, N. H. March 5, 1832. 
 Dear Brother Parker, 
 
 How I wish I could come and see you. The time seems 
 long since we parted ; but, through the grace of God, I am still 
 your unworthy brother in the kingdom and patience of Jesus 
 Christ. Though I stay long in New England, I know I love my 
 brethren in New York as well as I ever did. Sometimes I fancy 
 myself at your house, talking with you and sister Parker, and the 
 dear children, as in former days ; then I am at brother Conant's 
 and all about in Penfield among my Father's children. Next I 
 am over to Walworth, at my dear brother Lyon's, and then again 
 down in North Penfield at brother Cole's, whose house seems ren- 
 dered almost sacred by the good meetings we have had there. But 
 presently I find myself five hundred miles distant, and likely to be 
 for some months to come ; and here I am fighting against the un- 
 scriptural practices that are corrupting the church, and almost con- 
 stantly getting more enemies than friends. But, blessed be God, 
 though the time has come that many will not bear " sound doc- 
 trine," my plain preaching has not rendered me so odious, that any 
 more than " all men" have spoken evil of me. Another thing, 
 brother Parker, I feel to thank the blessed Savior for, and this is, 
 that he has so strengthened me and set my face against Babylon 
 and all her bewitching furniture, that the loss of my interest, or 
 honor, or popularity for Christ's sake, seems no more to me than a 
 bubble — a phantom. By the grace of God, I am determined that 
 I will not ask leave of men to declare the whole counsel of God 
 against all the abominations that are done in the earth. 0, my 
 
286 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 dear brother, do be faithful in the holy ministry, whereunto you 
 are called, and preach plain, pointed, simple. Holy Ghost truth, and 
 may God bless you abundantly. Please give my warm respects to 
 all the brethren. May they be humble and holy. I am thine in 
 the gospel, David Marks. 
 
 [To his brother Ives Marks.] 
 
 My dear brother, 
 
 * * * Great was our joy on hearing of your firm reso- 
 lution to live in the service of our dear Redeemer. We trust you 
 are steadfast in the blessed truth of the gospel, " for he that wa- 
 vereth is like a wave of the sea," tossed with the tempest. Noth- 
 ing can be accomplished well without steady perseverance ; and 
 we can never be established Christians, and shine as lights in the 
 world, unless we " dig deep and build on the rock." We must be 
 rooted and grounded in the truth, insomuch that interest, honor, 
 ease, or anything in this w^orld, shall not, on any occasion, inter- 
 fere to turn us from duty. Self must be denied and our will sub- 
 dued, so that on every occasion we shall be ready to do anything 
 the Lord requires of us. . That our obedience may be acceptable, 
 it is needful that we be always resolved to obey the Lord immedi- 
 ately, and never put off the duty of to-day until to-morrow. * 
 * * I would rather be an humble Christian than to be mon- 
 arch of the world, for by this I should be ten millions of times 
 better off. A monarch of a world, if he had nothing more, would 
 be unhappy still, and would have to leave it all in seventy or eigh- 
 ty years at the farthest, and then, alas ! he would be a poor man : 
 wdiile I should enjoy the unsearchable riches of Christ all the days 
 of my life, be they many or few, and then, glory to God, I should 
 go to possess an immortal and eternal inheritance — an unfading 
 treasure. So I am resolved to be a whole hearted Christian, in- 
 side and out, at home and abroad, in public and private. I know 
 God will help me, for without him I can do nothing. May the 
 Lord strengthen and bless you and enable you to withstand every 
 temptation, and ever bear the cross of the dear Redeemer. Then 
 shall the light of Christ illumine your way — the Holy Spirit lead 
 and guide you into all truth. I have found it useful to allot to my- 
 self a certain portion of Scripture to read every day, and have 
 made it a rule to commit to memory five or six verses daily. I 
 have also made it a constant practice to kneel and pray three times 
 every day, as David says, " Morning and evening, and at noon, 
 will I pray and cry aloud." Should you adopt the same rules, I 
 doubt not but you would find them very serviceable. If you should 
 learn five verses daily in the New Testament, you would commit 
 it to memory in four or five years. And though you may forget 
 
DAVID MARKS. 287 
 
 SO as not to be able to recite it verbatim, still you would gain a 
 great knowledge of the doctrine of the Bible. May the Lord pre- 
 serve you blameless to his coming and kingdom. 
 Your affectionate brother, 
 
 David Marks. 
 
 [To Elder Junia S. Mowry, R. I.] 
 
 April 5, 1832. 
 My dear brother Junia, 
 
 * * * I was glad to hear that you are yet willing to spend 
 your time in publishing the glad tidings of the gospel, and in try- 
 ing to persuade souls to flee from the wrath to come. This em- 
 ployment is truly more noble, glorious, and honorable, than to dwell 
 in king's courts, or sit in the high places of the earth. Though a 
 man suffer the loss of all things here, and among men be account- 
 ed the offscouring of all things, yet if he be a chosen vessel of the 
 Lord, and God make him instrumental of saving souls, he is truly 
 more favored than the princes of the earth. Yes, I consider your 
 calling more honorable than to be a successful candidate for the 
 Presidency of the United States. O that neither you nor I may 
 ever adapt our discourses to suit the society we are in, whether their 
 views, spirit, and practice are according to the word of God or 
 not. O Junia, make full proof of your ministry. You remark 
 tliat you had great trials the winter past respecting the wants of 
 Zion. This is a good sign. When the heart of man is opened to- 
 ward the church, and he feels pained at her sorrows, this is an in- 
 timation that God desires to use him for the publishing of peace to 
 the humble in spirit, and to pronounce a wo from God to those 
 who are at ease in Zion. We may yet rejoice, for the Maker of 
 Zion is the Almighty. He will soon " lay her foundations with 
 sapphires," " her stones with fair colors." " Her windows shall be 
 set in agates, and the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come 
 to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads : they shall 
 obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away." 
 Go on, my brother, and spend your life for the prosperity of the 
 Redeemer's kingdom; so he that owns all earth and heaven shall 
 reward you a hundred fold in your own bosom, and give you eter- 
 nal life besides. Need we envy the nobles of this world, while we 
 have such a Savior and such promises ? No, we have an assurance 
 of unsearchable riches. 
 
 You wish me to examine often and see whether I am in the 
 faith. I thank you for this. Such exhortations and watchings 
 over my soul prove to me who are my friends. * * 
 
 Yours affectionately. 
 
 David Marks. 
 
268 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 [To Howell Hearn, minister of the General Baptists in North Carolina.] 
 
 April 12, 1832. 
 Dear Brother, 
 
 Your communication of March 5, was received a few days 
 since and perused with much thankfulness and comfort. I felt to 
 thank God for that blessed uniting tie which binds those together 
 who never saw each other in the flesh. This is a bond of union 
 sweeter than life and stronger than death. If its enjoyment is so 
 pleasant in this world, O what will it be, when it becomes complet- 
 ed, when no more it is chilled by our imperfections, nor clogged by 
 the clods of flesh. While iniquity abounds, many turn after the 
 friendship of the world and their love grows cold. But if we 
 would be counted worthy to appear with the Lamb in his kingdom 
 and glory, we " must follow him whithersoever he goeth." If thus 
 we do, he will lead us not to a barren waste, but to living fountains 
 where joy is complete, and where there are treasures forevermore. 
 
 The general state of religion in these northern states during the 
 preceding year has been very good. There has been, perhaps, as 
 much revival in these states in proportion to the number of inhab- 
 itants, as there has been for a year in any country, since our bless- 
 ed Savior and his apostles preached in Palestine and Asia Minor. 
 At present, however, there seems to be a decline. Among Free- 
 will Baptists as well as among other denominations there are ma- 
 ny refreshing seasons. Still there is a great lack of engagedness, 
 for Christians ought to love the Lord with all the heart. We have 
 had a very tedious winter. The snow fell in November, and still there 
 is a great body of it on the earth. In some places, where I have 
 travelled in New Hampshire and Vermont, the snow was four feet 
 deep on a level, and near Franconia, N. H., I understood it was 
 six feet and in some places eight feet deep on a level. Only three 
 weeks since, I saw the road full, even with the tops of the fences 
 for many miles. * * * * Finally, brother, farewell. Pray 
 for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glo- 
 rified. Your affectionate brother in Christ. 
 
 David Marks. 
 
 Journal. " The latter part of March I received notice that the 
 copy for the hymn book would soon be ready for publication and 
 the interest of the Book Concern required that it should not be de- 
 layed. Many embarrassments lay in my way. In consequence of 
 my sickness, I had obtained few subscribers and my expenses and 
 consequent losses had been about two hundred dollars. The Book 
 Concern had no funds. Brethren dared not lend me money, or 
 undersign my notes as they considered the whole attempt hazard- 
 ous, and my health remained very poor. I could only lay my case 
 
DAVID MARKS. 289 
 
 before Him for whom I had engaged in this enterprise, promising 
 if He would open the way, to brave every difficulty. As the 
 hymn book was to be a standard work, it was important that it 
 should be stereotyped. Accordingly I went from Holderness to 
 Boston in two days and a half, through bad roads and inclement 
 weather, to see what could be done. Being a stranger, I found af- 
 ter repeated trials that I could do nothing to any advantage with- 
 out funds. The sale of my " Narrative" had been much more 
 ready than I anticipated, and I had now with me $200, received 
 from that source above the cost of publication. By paying this in 
 advance, I could get the stereotyping done for forty-two dollars less 
 than I could do otherwise. So I took this step, not knowing what 
 door would next open. I left the city almost discouraged, stopped 
 in Charlestown, and retired to bed, but not to sleep. The night 
 was passed in much anxious reflection and prayer. At length, the 
 following scrip of personal history occurred to mind, which I had 
 heard months before respecting Mr. John K. Simpson, President 
 of a bank in Boston. When he was young he lived in New 
 Hampshire, and was a Free-will Baptist. While yet a lad, he 
 went to Boston, poor and almost penniless. As he was passing 
 Charlestown bridge (which connects Charlestown with Boston,) he 
 stopped and leaned over the railing, and, while his tears mingled 
 with the waters beneath, he promised the Lord, if he would pros- 
 per him, that he would devote a certain part of his income for the pro- 
 motion of his cause. The Lord answered his prayer, and he had now 
 become wealthy. The thought that * perhaps he may aid me,' deter- 
 mined me to see him. A little after the dawn of the morning, 1 
 went into Boston, and by the help of a city Directory found his 
 house. He was not up, but sending in my name, he recognized 
 it, having seen it in the Morning Star, and very politely sent 
 me back an invitation to breakfast with him. Li about an hour I 
 had an introduction to him, and laid before him the object of my 
 visit. In a very kind manner he replied, " I will assist you by mak- 
 ing your notes bankable for whatever sums you may need, and then 
 they will answer all the purposes of money." He did so, subse- 
 quently to the amount of $8,000. This seemed such an answer to 
 prayer that my soul was greatly affected. 
 
 I returned to Limerick in the early part of April. While pass- 
 ing through a piece of woods, just at dark within a few miles g£ 
 the village, I saw a man lying drunk on the snow. As it was a 
 very cold night, I feared he would perish ; but I was too feeble to 
 lift him into my carriage. My soul was filled with a holy indig- 
 nation toward those who, for filthy lucre, will thus destroy their fel- 
 low men. Coming soon to the tavern, where he obtained his " li- 
 quid fire," and feeling anxious to rebuke the ^in as well as save the 
 26 
 
290 MEMOIRS or 
 
 poor man, I rode up to the door, around which a crowd was stand- 
 ing, and inquired for the landlord. I told him, that at a little distance 
 in the wood, there was a man lying on the snow, poisoned, and I 
 feared that if he were not taken care of, that he would perish. 
 Not understanding me, he inquired: " Poisoned? How?" " With 
 alcohol," I replied. " Indeed, w^hy did not you take care of him ?" 
 I told him I was ill, and had not strength to lift him, and withal, 
 as he dealt out the poison, the duty was his, and if he perished, liis 
 blood would be upon him. Some that were present said the man 
 should be taken care of. 
 
 On arriving at Limerick, I found the preparation of the hymn 
 book had been hindered from various causes, so that it was uncer- 
 tain whether it would be ready by the time I had engaged to have 
 it at the stereotype foundry. I concluded to remain a while, and 
 with my companion aid in the work. Not aware that mere men- 
 tal labor would injure me, I spent for four w^eeeks, much of the 
 time, sixteen hours per day, in close application to the work. At 
 the same time, my physical strength was such that I could bear al- 
 most no exercise. The result was a severe attack of dyspepsia. 
 During this period, I preached a few times in Limerick and the 
 adjacent towns, and on some of these occasions my soul was led out 
 into the deep things of God." 
 
 The Morning Star of April 13, 1832, contained a letter address- 
 ed to Elder John Buzzell, from Mr. Amos Sutton, missionary to 
 Orissa, in Hindoostan. Mr. Sutton was sent out as a missionaiy 
 by the General Baptists of England. A correspondence had been 
 opened between this denomination and the Free-will Baptists, and 
 it was found that their views of Scripture doctrine were alike. Mr. 
 Sutton's letter was an appeal to the Free-will Baptists, urging 
 them to engage in the mission enterprise, and labor in the same 
 field with the General Baptists. He closed lus letter in the follow- 
 ing pathetic language : 
 
 " I have lived more than six years in the province [Orissa] and 
 a great part of the time close to this enormous Jugumath. I have 
 seen the mangled victims of his infatuated adorers lying by hun- 
 dreds upon hundreds, exposed to the birds and beasts. I have lis- 
 tened to their dying exclamations, " Jugurnath ! Jugurnath ! Jug- 
 umath !" and have seen them die with the words on their lips. I 
 have seen the pit dug, and the fire kindled in it, to consume the 
 young widow with her husband's corpse, and in one instance, I 
 succeeded in saving her from this horrible death. I have seen Jug- 
 urnath in his triumphal car dragged by thousands of his worship- 
 pers, men, women, and children ; and I have seen the wretched 
 victims crushed beneath it, with a thousand other liorrors, which 
 well nigh overwhelm the mind at the mighty power of the god of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 291 
 
 this world. The gospel is the antidote for all these miseries, and 
 under its influence, the Hindoo Brahmin, who has set fire to the 
 pile which consumed his living mother and dead father, has become 
 the meek and affectionate preacher of the reign of mercy, and has 
 died consoled by the grace he proclaimed to others. Come, then, 
 my American brethren, come over and help us. The way is as 
 short and as safe from India to heaven, as from your land of priv- 
 ileges. Come and win some of these trophies, to deck the crown 
 of Jesus, and then remove from earth to heaven, and say, " Here 
 I am. Lord, and the children which thou hast given' me." Fare- 
 well. Yours in the hope of the gospel, A. Sutton." 
 
 This appeal had the effect almost of an electric shock upon the 
 mind of Mr. Marks, and ever after, the mission cause had his 
 warmest sympathies. Nor was it lost upon the denomination. 
 Their apathy began to give way, and soon a Missionary Society 
 was formed, of which Elder John Buzzell was President. 
 
 Journal. " Saturday, April 28. The hymn book being now 
 ready, I engaged brother Beede to go to Boston, and superintend 
 its publication, while I again resumed my labors among the church- 
 es. I held a few meetings in Dover and Great Falls. In the lat- 
 ter place I preached the funeral sermon of a grand-daughter of 
 Elder Benjamin Randall. She delayed repentance till on her dy- 
 ing bed, and then hoped she found mercy. I visited her during 
 her sickness, and she requested me to preach at her funeral. 
 Among the mourning relatives, was a son of Elder Randall. 
 
 Sabbath, May 6, I spent in Candia. About forty had recently 
 been converted in this place. The next day I preached in North- 
 wood. Some were awakened who afterwards, I was informed, 
 professed to find the Savior. Tuesday, I preached in Strafford, 
 from Matt. 18:7, " Wo unto the world, because of offences." The 
 subject opened to my mind with such clearness as almost to over- 
 power me, nor did the audience seem much less affected. 
 
 Elder Place gave me the reading of the records of the first 
 Free-will Baptist church that was formed, kept mostly in Elder 
 Randall's hand writing. From these records it appeared that 
 Free-will Baptists, at that time, made provision for defraying the 
 expenses of the church, and for aiding the poor by a church stock, 
 raised by a tax on the property of the church members. The fol- 
 lowing is taken from those records, on an occasion where it had 
 been voted to raise six pounds. 
 
 " Montlily meeting. New Durham, Oct. 18, 1794. 
 We, the subscribers, being appointed to take a just valuation of 
 the interest of the male members of said meeting, in order to raise 
 a church stock by an equality, have, according to the best of our 
 
MEMOIRS OF 
 
 judgment, set against each member's name his proportion of the 
 sum of six pounds lawful money. 
 
 Members. s. d. Members. s. d. s. i>. 
 
 B. Randall, 
 
 4 
 
 J. Young, 
 
 2 
 
 J. Runnals, 7-6 
 
 Dea. E. Bickford, 5- 
 
 3 J. Kennjson, 
 
 4- 
 
 D.Morrison, 7-6 
 
 « S. Pottle, 
 
 4 
 
 Jos. Kennison, 
 
 2-6 
 
 S. Drown, 4 
 
 Z, Boody, 
 
 11- 
 
 6 Sam'l Runnels, 
 
 11 
 
 S. Tasker, 4 
 
 J. Boody, 
 
 2 
 
 J. Buzzell, 
 
 6 
 
 J. Foss, 8 
 
 J. Hasse, 
 I. Buzzell, 
 
 4 
 6 
 
 Z. Glidden, 
 T. Davis, 
 
 4 
 
 
 13-5 
 
 Total, £6 7 11' 
 
 B. Kelly, 
 
 5 
 
 J. Penny, 
 
 6-6 
 
 
 R. 0. Randall, 
 
 2 
 
 T. Norton, 
 
 2-9 
 
 
 The following extract from a letter, written to S. Beede about 
 this period, is introduced as somewhat illustrative of Mr. Marks' 
 views of using property. 
 
 " Perhaps I have been too fearful of contracting debts for your 
 service. If it has been so, my friend will impute it to no other 
 principle than that of caution, which is the " parent of safety." We 
 may presume too much on what a denomination ought to do, and 
 at last find what is every body's business is neglected by all. I ac- 
 knowledge I have felt no small delicacy in risking the loss of my 
 little all, and for which, if I am successful, I expect no temporal 
 reward. Still, if you want fifty dollars, besides economical expen- 
 ses, for the purchase of books, I do not know as I can refuse this 
 favor now. But this I can advise, and I think you will accept it 
 as from a friend, that you ever study the best economy in your ex- 
 penses. Jesus Christ became poor — literally poor, and his expen- 
 ses were suited to this condition, so that he had not where to lay 
 his head — ^had no money to pay tribute ; yet he never murmured, 
 though the world was his. We are God's stewards, and our econ- 
 omy and our motto should be, not like that of worldly gentlemen, 
 who indulge their wishes for whatever pleases their fancy, but in 
 the language of the apostle, " As poor, yet making many rich." 
 The reflection that the most of God's useful men, and those who 
 have rendered the greatest service to their fellow men, have been 
 poor in this world, and that the time is short, very, very short, 
 when we must give an account to God for our stewardship, is 
 enough to fill us with awe, and put up a bar against unnecessary 
 indulgence. 
 
 " Of all the friends I have ever had, I suppose you may have 
 had reason to think there is none whose welfare and prosperity are 
 nearer my heart than that of my friend Samuel ; not that I ever 
 thought you perfect in judgment or in life. But this I may say, 
 your influence has been as weighty on my mind as I think that of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 203 
 
 any imperfect man ought to be. I have had reason to be thankful 
 for the plainness you have used with me in time past ; but I think 
 you may yet show me still more kindness in telling me my faults 
 and your fears. May you be prepared for usefulness in Zion, not 
 only by the acquirement of knowledge, but also by a close com- 
 munion with God, and by being filled with wisdom and the Holy 
 Ghost. I pray God to comfort you and strengthen you for your 
 work. Watch your own spirit, examine your own heart, and take 
 time to pray much for the church, the world, for yourself, and for 
 your affectionate brother, David Marks." 
 
 Journal. " Thursday, 10, I left Strafford, and during the four 
 ensuing days, attended seven meetings on my way to New Durham 
 quarterly meeting in Loudon. Elder Place preached a sermon on 
 holiness, which, if practiced, would make the world a paradise. I 
 spoke from Ephesians 1:11 : "In whom we have obtained an inher- 
 itance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who 
 worketh all things after the counsel of his own will." The divis- 
 ion of the subject was as follows. 1. The will of God. 2. His 
 works according to the counsel of the same. 3. The obtaining the 
 inheritance. 4. The purpose of God. 5. The predestination of 
 the saints. It pleased the Lord to give me freedom, so that I was 
 enabled to speak with animation more than two hours. After the 
 close of the quarterly meeting, I went to Dover, preaching by the 
 way, and in compliance with a previous engagement, attended 
 three days at a protracted meeting which followed the dedication of 
 the Free-wdll Baptist meeting house. Several ministers were 
 present, and about twelve awakened souls found peace in believing. 
 Much very important labor having accumulated on my hands with 
 regard to the business of the Book Concern, I was obliged to sit 
 up during my attendance of this meeting, writing with my compan- 
 ion, nearly the whole of the nights. 
 
 Friday, May 25, I was present at the marriage of my friend 
 Beede to Miss Mary E. Spaulding. As Mr. Beede w^as to leave 
 early next morning to return to Boston, and as there was consider- 
 able indispensable business to be prepared before he left, I worked 
 all night. I had now a great pressure of cares which threatened 
 to crush me. I had become responsible for about $2400, including 
 what I had paid, all due within a year. I had only about fifteen 
 hundred subscribers for the hymn book, and if the edition of four 
 thousand copies was sold as soon as issued, it would not pay the 
 cost, including copy and plates. I had important engagements that 
 would call me to New York in the fall, and detain me there till the 
 ensuing spring, while, in consequence of unforeseen delays, the 
 book would not be out till July, so that I had only three months to 
 25* 
 
294 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 collect and insure the collecting of the $2400. I felt anxieties 
 which I had not known before, and burdens that pressed heavily 
 upon me. I had tried to shake them off, but in spite of all my ef- 
 forts, still they clung to me. As soon as Mr. Beede left, I stopped 
 a moment to rest, but my excessive fatigues of body and mind had 
 been too much for my nervous system to endure. I became lost, 
 my memory was gone, and it was with much difficulty that the 
 most powerful stimulants could recover me. My friends, as well 
 as myself, were alarmed, and for most of the day I kept my bed. 
 After a little sleep, I was enabled, in some measure, to cast my 
 cares upon the Lord, and although, as in the reading of Moses, 
 there was a veil over the face, and on natural principles (consider- 
 ing my health) my prospects were dark, yet as I looked to Him for 
 whose sake I had taken these burdens, I felt a sweet hope that he 
 would carry me through, and I began to labor again with courage. 
 
 Sabbath, May 27, I preached again in Dover, and during the 
 week, attended the Weare quarterly meeting in Boscawen. Many 
 appeared deeply impressed, and several seemed to be near the 
 kingdom of God. I preached three times during the session in 
 compliance with urgent solicitations, but found it greatly wearied 
 me. The following Sabbath, I spent in Canterbury. This church 
 had just lost their pastor, who had been settled over them thirty- 
 five years. Though I had passed a sick night, the Lord strength- 
 ened me to preach twice. My mind was remarkably clear, and 
 God's melting power was present in the assembly. Tuesday, I 
 preached on the subject of stewardship. It was a heart-searching 
 time, and my own soul was deeply humbled. What is more hu- 
 miliating than the view that we have nothing we can call our 
 own? 
 
 June 8 — 11, I attended the New Hampshire yearly meeting in 
 Andover, and though very feeble, yet being much urged, I preach- 
 ed twice. Several other sermons were given. The business meet- 
 ing was a trying time, but the power of God attended the preach- 
 ing of his word. A revival commenced, and on the evening of the 
 11th, five professed to be converted. 
 
 The prosperity of the Book Concern, and the cause in general, 
 seeming to demand a tour through the churches in Maine, I thought 
 it duty to commence it in season to attend the Penobscot yearly 
 meeting. Friday, June 14, I called on Elder J. Buzzell in Par- 
 sonsfield. He was actively engaged in getting subscriptions to 
 build a Seminary. Nine hundred dollars had been subscribed, and 
 the building was commenced. He had also received about fifty 
 dollars towards the establishment of a Foreign Mission. May 
 these small beginnings be the harbingers of great success. Sab- 
 bath, June 16, I was enabled to preach twice in Limerick, and 
 
DAVID MARKS. 295 
 
 once in Limington. Blessed be the Lord, for restoring mercies. 
 My invaluable friend Beede has just written me some hints that 
 I hope will do me good. He says, " I am sorry you are so indis- 
 posed, though it is no more than I expected would be your lot. 
 The great anxiety of mind which you often indulge, and have par- 
 ticularly with regard to the Book Concern, the immense labors you 
 perform, together with your past inattention to diet and regimen, 
 &c., are such as no human constitution can long endure unimpair- 
 ed. Dyspepsia, or other maladies of a more fatal nature, must in- 
 evitably follow. But wisdom is profitable to direct. I feared the 
 undue worry of mind, that • appeared to rest upon you, when I 
 last saw you, would drive you to insanity, or otherwise destroy 
 your usefulness. Therefore, I tried to reprove your anxiety and 
 distrust in God." O Lord, help me to correct all my errors. Thou 
 knowest I have seen so much to be done to bring back this revolt- 
 ed world to thee, that I have not taken time to acquaint myself 
 with the laws of health. How much there is that I need to know. 
 I thank thee for the faithfulness of my dear brother Beede. 
 
 Tuesday, June 18. We found a great agitation in Portland, 
 from a report that the Asiatic cholera had reached our continent. 
 We hoped to hear it contradicted ; but, on arriving at Gardiner, 
 we heard a confirmation of the dreadful tidings. There had been 
 forty-nine cases in Quebec, forty-five of which had proved fatal. 
 In Montreal, there had been fifteen cases, seven of them fatal, and 
 it was spreading rapidly in other towns. It was brought from Ire- 
 land in a vessel, on which, it was reported, that forty-two died 
 during the passage. The emigration from Ireland to Quebec, is 
 said to exceed one thousand in a day. I have just been inform- 
 ed that the physicians and people have met to petition the govern- 
 ment to stop up the Canada road from this place to Quebec, a dis- 
 tance of two hundred miles. But O, how vain will be their efforts 
 to stay the judgments of the Lord. It may be among us in a few 
 days, and many, yes, many of our friends may die. I may be call- 
 ed away by this pestilence. Am I prepared ? Blessed be God, I 
 feel to say, " The will of the Lord be done," whether it be life or 
 death. But as life is uncertain, I will make my will, and arrange 
 my temporal concerns, that I may be ready to go any moment the 
 Lord may call. Glory to God for the comfort I feel in the reflec- 
 tion, that, through grace, I have been enabled to leave all for 
 Christ's sake, and devote my whole time in preaching his precious 
 word. In the evening, I preached in Gardiner from the text, 
 " Prepare to meet your God." I alluded to the pestilence, and 
 urged the importance of being prepared to meet it. For some time 
 my mind had been deeply impressed with the belief that the judg- 
 ments of God were hanging over us, and that soon the Lord would 
 
2®6 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 scourge us for our sins. For a year past, I had often been led to 
 name this in my preaching with the keenest feelings, and often told 
 my assemblies, that I believed God would send the cholera to pun- 
 ish our nation for its wickedness. Many had ridiculed the idea 
 that the cholera would ever come to this countiy, across the great 
 ocean. The public journals had ridiculed it. Alas ! it has ever 
 been with this wicked world, that they would not believe that judg- 
 ments were at hand, until they came. 
 
 Thursday, June 20. I again had another of those strange at- 
 tacks. My memory was gone, so that I could not tell where I 
 was, or what I was, nor tliink of my name. Physicians call it a 
 nervous affection. I got better, so that I rode nearly thirty miles 
 to China. In passing through Augusta, I was informed a man 
 was there the Tuesday previous, then five days from Quebec. He 
 said the cholera raged so before he left that individuals dropped in 
 the street and died before they could be carried into a house, and 
 he then thought it time for him to flee. I read in an Augusta pa- 
 per that the cholera had reached Albany ! 
 
 Friday, I rode thirty miles to Newburg, near the Penobscot 
 river, where the Penobscot yearly meeting commenced its session 
 the ne-xt day. The tidings of the approach of the cholera produc- 
 ed an unwonted solemnity on the audience. Elder Elias Hutch- 
 ins was present, and gave an interesting account of his visit to 
 North Carolina, among the people called General Baptists ; but 
 who, from the time of his first visiting them, called themselves Free- 
 will Baptists. He said their origin and early history were involv- 
 ed in obscurity. They were supposed to have originated from the 
 General Baptists in England, about seventy years ago. He also 
 preached a very instructive and impressive sermon. On the Sab- 
 bath, about two thousand people assembled ; and though I had pass- 
 ed a sick night, I ventured to leave my bed about 10 o'clock, A. 
 M., in compliance with the entreaties of brethren, went to the 
 meeting, and spoke nearly two hours without apparent injury. My 
 visit to this yearly meeting has awakened considerable interest in 
 the Book Concern, and I think secured the efforts of some efficient 
 brethren. 
 
 Thursday, June 27, 1 preached in Prospect : the power of God 
 attended the word ; thirty came forward for prayer, and several 
 wept profusely. On the way to Prospect, I learned by the Penob- 
 scot Journal, that the cholera was raging dreadfully at Montreal 
 and Quebec. In the former place, the last day's report stated that 
 between sunrise and sunset, there were one hundred and fif- 
 ty cases, and one hundred and five deaths, and that it took all 
 night to bury the dead ! Two days afterwards, I read in another 
 public paper, that in Montreal, on the 17th inst., there were six 
 
DAVID MARKS. 297 
 
 hundred cases of cholera, and that there had been sixteen hundred 
 cases in ten days. Friday, June 29, 1 preached in Montville. This 
 day I read in a Boston paper, that at Montreal there had been 
 from the 11th to the 21st of June, no less than one thousand deaths 
 by the cholera. All business had ceased, and even the stage, in 
 its passage from that place, was unable to change horses in forty 
 miles. On its approach, so great was the terror, that the inhabi- 
 tants would shut their windows, and lock their doors. O Lord, 
 have mercy on our country, though the abuse of thy many bless- 
 ings deserves thy judgments. Yet, O Lord, do thou pity our na- 
 tion according to thy long suffering, and according to the multitude 
 of thy mercies. On this day, apple trees were full in blossom ; so 
 backward is the season. 
 
 Saturday and Sabbath, I attended the Edgcomb quarterly meet- 
 ing in Windsor, and was very affectionately received. I preached 
 twice with much freedom ; several came forward for prayer, among 
 whom was a sea captain, who, it was said, until now had been in- 
 clined to Universalism. Tuesday, July 3, I preached in Water- 
 ville a poor dry sermon, and felt much humbled for my unprofita- 
 bleness. I enjoyed an interview with brother Hosea Quinby, who 
 had about finished his college studies. May he be a rich blessing 
 to the denomination. During eight days following, I preached 
 eight sermons to churches between Waterville and Limerick, and 
 saw some persuaded to turn and live. 
 
 Thursday, July 11, had been appointed by the joint recommen- 
 dation of different denominations throughout the state, for fasting, 
 humiliation and prayer, on account of the cholera. I preached at 
 Limerick from Ps. 91:5 — 9. " Thou shalt not be afraid for the 
 terror by night ; nor for the arrow that flieth by day ; nor for the 
 pestilence that walketh in darkness ; nor for the destruction that 
 wasteth at noon day. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten 
 thousand at thy right hand ; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only 
 with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked, 
 because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most 
 High, thy habitation." The Sabbath following, I preached in Dover. 
 Much alarm prevailing on account of the ravages of the cholera, a 
 meeting was held by the inhabitants the next evening to take meas- 
 ures to prevent its introduction, and to be prepared for it in case 
 of its approach. On this evening, I spoke with much animation of 
 soul to about eight hundred people at Great Falls. There were 
 strict attention and much weeping in the audience. 
 
 About this time, I received the first copies of " Christian Mel- 
 ody," our new hymn book. It contains one thousand hynms and 
 several anthems. Its appearance was very satisfactory^ and I 
 felt abundantly rewarded for all my anxious labors and embarrass- 
 
298 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 ments in securing its publication. It was received by the subscri- 
 bers and the public with gladness, and almost with enthusiasm. 
 
 From the 16th of July to the 1st of August, my time was occu- 
 pied with preaching in Dover, Great Falls, and in towns in their vi- 
 cinity, and in supplying subscribers with the hymn book. I then 
 went to Portland, Me. and sent off eight hundred copies' in parcels to 
 different sections. During the succeeding weeks, I visited various 
 towns between Portland, Me. and Haverhill, Mass. preaching daily, 
 distributing the hymn book, and receiving returns. 
 
 Aug. 14 — 16, I attended the New Durham quarterly meeting in 
 New Durham, the town where Randall formed the first Free-will 
 Baptist church, and where his remains rest in glorious hope. It 
 was a season of interest. I was especially rejoiced to find the infant 
 book establishment growing fast into favor. For nearly a year I 
 had been desirous to preach at Randall's grave, and Thursday, July 
 16, I enjoyed the precious privilege. A neat marble slab, erected 
 by the Free-will Baptist denomination, marked the sacred spot. 
 On it was the following inscription : 
 
 " SACRED 
 
 TO THE MEMORY OF 
 
 ELDER BENJAMIN RANDALL, 
 
 THE FOUNDER OF THE FREE-WILL BAPTIST 
 SOCIETY IN AMERICA. 
 
 HE LABORED IN THE MINISTRY 
 
 THIRTY YEARS. 
 
 He died Oct. 22, 1808, aged 59 years 
 
 7 months and 27 days. 
 
 Sweet is thy rest, thou servant of the Lord, 
 'Twas thy delight to preach his sacred word, 
 Hundreds of souls shall deck thy starry crown, 
 And all the glory to thy God redound." 
 
 I stood at the head of the grave, and read from the " Life of 
 Randall" his last letter to the Free-will Baptist denomination. It 
 seemed, indeed, like a voice from his grave. Some of Randall's 
 fellow laborers were present and were greatly affected." 
 
 The following notice of this interesting meeting was written by 
 Elder D. P. Cilley, clerk of New Durham quarterly meeting, and 
 published in the Morning Star. 
 
 " During the exercises of the New Durham quarterly meeting, 
 notice was given that brother David Marks would preach a ser- 
 mon at the grave of Randall. * * At the appointed 
 hour, hundreds were seen in various directions walking solemnly 
 
DAVID MARKS. 299 
 
 to the sacred spot. * * * j^j., Marks, standing in 
 a chair near the grave of one whose delight it was to call on his 
 fellow men to seek God, commenced his address. After remarking, 
 by way of introduction, that by meeting in that singular manner 
 for the worship of God, they did not expect any supernatural ef- 
 fect to attend, he proceeded to speak from Hebrews 11th chapter, 
 and last part of the fourth verse. " He being dead, yet speakethr 
 The general heads of the discourse were as follows : 1. Notice the 
 death of the saint. 2. Show how he yet speaks. 3. Make the 
 application and improvement. In further treating the subject, he 
 remarked ; 1. Death has lost its sting and is precious to the Chris- 
 tian. 2. The saint, by the sacrifice of his life, and his all, speaks 
 after death, God testifying of his gifts. 3. Elder Randall, by the 
 entire sacrifice of his life to God, by his holiness and humility, still 
 speaks to us. On account of time, the discourse was short, but in- 
 structive and appropriate, and attended with much of the influence 
 of the Holy Spirit, as is usually the case with the preaching of our 
 dear brother. We can but think that the solemn truths advanced, 
 will have a deep and lasting impression on the minds of many. 
 Though the people generally were standing, they were very atten- 
 tive, and it truly appeared as though God by his Spirit was in the 
 midst. These solemn exercises closed by prayer, by Elder E. 
 Place, who seemed to feel all the solemnity of the occasion. Quite 
 a number of the servants of God were kneeled around the silent 
 mound, and our brother, while in prayer, seemed to be filled with 
 strong desires that they might possess much of the persevering 
 and unwearied spirit of the departed Randall. Thus closed a scene 
 to me new and very solemn." * * 
 
 Some friends had expressed their fears to Mr. Marks that his 
 piety must suffer from having so much secular business on his 
 hands ; but all his secular avocations were the result of the same 
 benevolence and devotedness that had constrained him from boy- 
 hood to present himself as a living sacrifice in the service of God 
 and man. In his business, he was as much the consecrated Chris- 
 tian, as in the pulpit : hence, when pressed with worldly cares, his 
 soul enjoyed spiritual health, and as his temporal avocations were 
 never conducted in a secular spirit, his religious enjoyment seemed 
 to increase in circumstances and occupations which would have 
 been hurtful to the piety of many. The following are extracts 
 from his correspondence about this period. 
 
 *• To the Benton quarterly meeting to be held August 10, 1882, Greeting. 
 
 My dear brethren, 
 
 As I cannot meet with you, I think it meet to report my situation 
 to you by letter, agreeably to the advice of General Conference. 
 
300 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 The precious cause of Christ, which I embraced when a little child 
 and confessed among you with trembling, is still dearer to my 
 heart than every thing that can be named. A conviction of duty 
 in the service of our great Redeemer alone has detained me from 
 coming to you these many months. I long again to meet with you 
 in your quarterly sessions, to visit your churches, and pour out my 
 soul at your family altars. I doubt not that you have afflictions 
 and trials, for these are inseparable from the present imperfect state 
 of the church. Still, blessed be God, we have more, yes, abun* 
 dantly more, to encourage us than to discourage us. O may each 
 of us serve God for ourselves, and serve the present generation 
 for Christ's sake, that the peace of the great Head of the church 
 may reign in our hearts, and that we may be counted worthy to 
 stand in the Judgment. ****** 
 
 As to my enjoyment, I have never felt more settled peace 
 through our Lord Jesus Christ, than I have for two years 
 past ; and never did I feel more determined to spend all my life in 
 his service. The day of my espousal is still fresh in my memory, 
 and the happy seasons I have had with you, I shall never forget. 
 O brethren, watch and pray. Be not discouraged. The master 
 wdll come and wipe away every tear from his childi'en. Pray for 
 me that I may be perfected in love. FarewelL 
 
 Yours in the bonds of our holy religion, 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
 ** To the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, assembled in China, N. Y., 
 Aug. 24, 1832, Greeting. 
 
 My dear and beloved brethren, 
 
 As this month came in, the remembrance of past oppor- 
 tunities in our yearly meeting called my attention to the west, and 
 painful was the thought that another session must pass before I 
 can again meet you. Though communications with the pen are 
 cold compared with those enjoyed when we meet face to face, I 
 gladly embrace this privilege to assure you that that precious cause 
 which engaged the attention of my childhood, is still dearer to my 
 heart than any thing or every thing else ; yes, more precious than 
 life. An inspired apostle once wrote to his brethren, that he had 
 no greater joy than to hear that they walked in the truth ; and, O 
 my brethren, I cannot tell the anxiety I feel to hear of your state, 
 and liow much I fear and tremble, lest I shall hear that some have 
 departed from the faith and purity of the gospel. Not that I have 
 not confidence in you, and hope better things of you, and things 
 that accompany salvation, but I know that we live in a backsliding 
 world, surrounded by a thousand foes, and the whole history of the 
 church, in every age, has presented almost a continued scene of 
 backsliding. 
 
DAVlt) MAHKS. 301 
 
 In many places in New England, the state of religion among 
 our brethren, as well as among other denominations, is quite en- 
 couraging. Still there is much to be done before the church shall 
 be sanctified, and the glory of God shine without a cloud. The 
 ministry must be purified, become more spiritual and devoted, more 
 given up to their great work, and better prepared by a thorough 
 knowledge of the Scriptures, and the influences of the Spirit, to 
 win souls for the other world. Professed Christians must be sep- 
 arate from the spirit of the world, from its pride and vanities. The 
 worship of God must be established in every family, religious 
 people must train up their children in the fear of the Lord, and 
 covetousness must be suppressed. Then shall the light of Zion 
 break forth as the morning, peace shall abound among the church- 
 es, and the glory of God fill the whole earth. 
 
 I pray that you may be favored with the presence of the great 
 Head of the church, and that all of you may be tender hearted, 
 loving one another, and forgiving one another, even as Christ has 
 forgiven us ; and also be subject to one another for the Lord's 
 sake. I beseech you to remember your unworthy brother in your 
 prayers. My companion is still with me. She also saluteth you 
 in the Lord. If the Lord will, we think to spend the ensuing 
 winter with you, but many of us may meet no more in time. The 
 angel of death has flown from the old world and lighted on our 
 shores. Before he leaves, doubtless, he will conduct many of us 
 to eternity. O may we be ready and have our work done well, 
 and in season, that we may meet the Lord with joy. Amen. 
 
 Yours in Christ, 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
 Journal. " Saturday and Sabbath, August 18 and 19, I attend- 
 ed the Sandwich quarterly meeting. The large meeting house was 
 filled to overflowing. The power of God was present, and among 
 the number that presented themselves for prayer were several that 
 had been hitherto opposers. At this time I read an official report, 
 stating that the cholera was in Boston, also that during the July- 
 past, there had been three thousand and forty three interred in the 
 city of New York, most of whom had died with the pestilence ! 
 It was raging dreadfully in many other towns in the state of New 
 York. There were many instances, in which people in the high 
 circles of life were in health, and cheerful with their friends, and 
 in four hours were on their way to their graves. Business was at an 
 end, and New York and Albany were gloomy and almost deserted 
 cities. In one public journal, it was calculated, that at the present 
 rate of mortality in New York city, the average life of man would 
 be two years and twenty days. Alas ! alas ! Notwithstanding the 
 
 26 
 
302 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 unparralleled mortality in our country, great stupidity with regard 
 to the greatest of all concerns, seems to have taken possession of 
 the people. O for the influences of the Holy Spirit. 
 
 Wednesday, Aug. 22, I preached a little dry sermon in Lisbon. 
 Holy Father, pity thy unprofitable servant. The following Satur- 
 day and Sabbath, I attended the Wheelock quarterly meeting in 
 Sutton, Vt. in the meeting house built by Elder John Colby. As 
 not more than half the people could be convened in the house, the 
 speakers stood in the door. I felt especially assisted in preaching 
 on the subject of our stewardship. During my stay in Sutton, I 
 visited Deacon Thomas Colby, father of Elder J. Colby, m^io was 
 very sick, and was thought to be near his end. I found him strong 
 in the Lord, and very happy." 
 
 After the close of the AVheelock quarterly meeting, Mr. Marks 
 passed through New Hampshire to the state of Maine, in nearly 
 an easterly direction, and attended the Farmington quarterly meet- 
 ing and the Kennebec yearly meeting in Wilton; thence he 
 went to Portland, preaching as usual, distributing books, and 
 laboring to awaken an interest in the infant Book Establish- 
 ment. He spent a few days in Portland to aid Mr. Beede 
 in preparing the Free-will Baptist Register for 1833. Such 
 had been the arrangement for the sale of the hymn book that 
 the edition was exhausted in about six weeks, and Mr. Marks had 
 been enabled to meet all his pecuniary engagements. He was 
 cheered with many testimonials from intelligent brethren in favor 
 of this new work, of which the following are specimens. 
 
 " Randolph, Yt. 
 
 The Hymn book exceeds my expectation, in the selection, 
 arrangement, and execution of the work. With Pike, also, on 
 the character of Christ, I am well pleased. Such productions, I 
 think, will not fail to excite an interest in the Book Establishment, 
 and produce among us that concert which is essential to our pros- 
 perity. Yours, S.Robinson.'- 
 
 " Boston, Sept. 7. 
 
 I am glad the hymn book takes so well, for it shows discernment 
 and a good taste in our brethren. The book, as a whole, is not, in 
 my opinion, excelled by any one now in use in its literary character; 
 and its religious character accords fully with the sentiments of our 
 denomination. I have no doubt but that it will be approved by 
 every competent judge. John K. Simpson." 
 
 Another edition of the hymn book being called for, it was deci- 
 ded to issue it, and for this purpose Mr. Beede was again employed 
 to go to Boston. So much expense had been incurred, and so 
 much inconvenience suffered for want of a printing press, that 
 
DAVID MARKS. 303 
 
 Mr. Marks (with the concurrence of the Publishing Commit- 
 tee) was now bent on purchasing one, especially as he was anx- 
 ious that a periodical, devoted to the interests of religion and 
 the reforms of the day, should be issued by the Book Concern. 
 He concluded, however, to delay any action till the meeting of the 
 General Conference in October, and wait their advice. The con- 
 ductors of the Morning Star had made proposals to sell to him, as 
 the Agent of the denomination, their establishment; and as the 
 publishers and patrons of that paper were Free-will Baptists, and 
 the issuing of another periodical might create a clashing of inter- 
 ests, he thought seriously of accepting their proposals. The Morn- 
 ing Star had been published for seven years and had about one thous- 
 and and six hundred subscribers. He looked forward to the ensu- 
 ing Conference with much interest, as a session that would do much 
 for the prosperity of the denomination. He wrote to Mr. Beede 
 on this subject, as follows : " The mission cause, support of the 
 ministry, the Book Concern, its establishment, number of directors, 
 its rules, a printing press, a periodical, &c. &c. are weighty sub- 
 jects on which there should be mature deliberation and resolves at 
 the next General Conference. I wish you would indite some reso- 
 lutions on these subjects previous to the Conference. If brethren 
 of piety and talent woiild do this, it would greatly facilitate busi- 
 ness and save precious time." 
 
 During the remainder of September, Mr. Marks preached in 
 several towns in the southwestern part of Maine, and eastern part 
 of New Hampshire, attended the Maine Western yearly meeting 
 at Parsonsfield, and the ministers' conference of the Sandwich 
 quarterly meeting in Holderness. The latter met for the purpose 
 of discussing the Unitarian views of the character of Christ, and 
 the doctrine of the annihilation of the wicked, there being a few 
 members of the conference supposed to believe these sentiments. 
 The discussion continued three days, and resulted in the following 
 resolves. " That we agree with the report of the General Confer- 
 ence on the character of Christ — that the souls of the wicked are 
 in a state of punishment between death and the judgment — that 
 the punishment of the wicked is without end.'* 
 
 During this period, Mr. Marks received a letter from Mr. Beede, 
 from which the following is taken. 
 
 "Boston, Sept. 19, 1832. 
 * * * My views upon the various subjects about 
 which we have conversed so much, are far from being those of edu- 
 cation. If they were, I should be a blind sectarian. They have 
 been formed from careful research, meditation, and prayer. My 
 object has been to know the truth, not to find this, that, or the oth-^ 
 er opinion supported. To get a knowledge of our own nature and 
 
804 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 faculties, sufficiently to distinguish how much of our religious creed, 
 attachments, and preferences to particular modes and forms, is the 
 offspring of prejudice, education, or ignorance, and how much is 
 the offspring of God's truth, requires an extensive philosophical 
 study of the physical, intellectual, and moral powers of man, with 
 all the candor and humility that a heart filled with God's grace can 
 give us. The spirit of a man only knows the things of a man ; 
 but if the things of a man are not studied by him, he ever remains 
 ignorant of his own nature, and unless he has much fervent charity, 
 he becomes a bigot rather than a Christian. That man who has 
 become well acquainted with his own intellectual and moral pow- 
 ers, is in a suitable state of preparation, through the illuminating 
 power of God's Spirit, to understand God's truth. None others 
 can consistently hold it without mixture with prejudice and imper- 
 fection. A man may have the heart of a saint with the judgment 
 partially of an idiot. He may possess all holiness of heart, and 
 yet, through prejudice, hold doctrines contrary to God, and that 
 would lead others to ruin. Hence the propriety of serving God, 
 with body, soul, and spirit ; of employing all the capacities of mind 
 as well as of our wills and bodies, in keeping his commands. But, 
 my brother, I acknowledge myself to be very deficient as to serv- 
 ing God in any way as I ought. I am too often under the influ- 
 ence of pride, ignorance and sloth. So far as you have seen me 
 wrong, I wish you to reprove me. * * * * 
 
 From twelve to twenty persons have died here with the cholera. 
 I have just returned from a walk taken to inspect the district, 
 where the pestilence has principally appeared. The street [Elli- 
 ot] is the most noted for prostitution of any in Boston. It is low, 
 wet, and every thing about it appears filthy. I think they might 
 honestly have the cholera, or some other pestilence, without its be- 
 ing communicated from abroad. * * 
 
 Yours in love, 
 
 S. Beede." 
 
 In the early part of October, Mr. Marks attended the Vermont 
 yearly meeting in Cabot: thence, preaching daily, he w^entto Mer- 
 edith, N. H. where the General Conference opened its sixth session, 
 October 10, and to which he had again been appointed a delegate 
 by the Holland Purchase yearly meeting. The Conference took 
 high ground on the various subjects brought before them. They 
 resolved themselves into a temperance society, appointed a Board 
 for Foreign Missions, and a board of Trustees for the Parsonsfield 
 Seminary. As there had been much misrepresentation of the sen- 
 timents of Free-will Baptists, which, in some places, had been a 
 barrier to their usefulness, the Conference decided that a Treatise 
 should be prepared, embodying the general views and practice of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 305 
 
 Free-will Baptists, and presented to .the next General Conference 
 for their approval. The Conference highly approbated their Book 
 Agent " for his faithfulness and ability in conducting the business 
 in all its parts," re-appointed him Agent, advised the purchase of 
 the Morning Star, and added three more to the Publishing Com- 
 mittee, viz. Hosea Quinby, Silas Curtis, D. P. Cilley. 
 
 The following particulars relative to the purchase of the print- 
 ing establishment, are taken from an article Mr. Marks addressed 
 to Free-will Baptists through the Star. 
 
 " As Agent for the Conference, I have ventured to become per- 
 sonally responsible for the payment of about S3700 in the pur- 
 chase of the Morning Star, in order that this establishment may 
 become the property of the denomination, and this periodical be 
 under its direction. The debts for which I was personally respon- 
 sible for the Book Concern at the time of this purchase, were 
 about S2000 ; so that now I am bound for the payment of nearly 
 S6000 for the denomination, and if circumstances should be favor- 
 able, so that I can with the utmost diligence meet these engage- 
 ments, then whatever profits may have arisen w^ill belong to the 
 denomination ; for I have given an instrument according to law, 
 binding myself, heirs, &c., to deliver this property to the Trustees 
 of the Conference — but, on the other hand, if pestilence shouldl 
 put an end to business, if any unforeseen losses should accrue, or- 
 the influence of enemies interfere, or if the indifference of breth- 
 ren should prevent success, if these, or any other misfortunes, 
 should blast my hopes, and render payment impossible — then I 
 shall be exposed to all the afflictions of a failure, and sustain the- 
 loss of all my own property, without the least ground of redress^ 
 from any source, except it be from the good feelings of the denom- 
 ination to which I belong. It has been with trembling, and after 
 many prayers and tears, that I have taken upon me these respon- 
 sibilities. I would have preferred to delay the purchase of the 
 printing establishment, until the funds of the Book Concern should 
 be sufficient to purchase one, without contracting a debt, but 
 circumstances were such that it was thought the longer the pur- 
 chase was delayed, the greater would be the difficulty with whichi 
 it would be effiscted. The hope, therefore, that every brother will 
 lend a helping hand, and that by gaining this estabhshment for the 
 denomination, there will be laid a permanent foundation for the 
 spread of religious knowledge, by which hundreds of churches will be 
 benefited, and thousands of souls converted, has induced me to en- 
 ter cheerfully into these engagements. " But," said a brother since 
 I took upon me these obligations, " Brother Marks, I fear you are 
 leaving the word of God to serve tables." The answer I gave 
 that brother, I would give to all my friends who have similar fears.. 
 26* 
 
806 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 The service of tables is the procuring of necessaries for the desti- 
 tute. Now, so far from leaving the word of God to do this, I have 
 disregarded, to a considerable degree, my temporal interest, and 
 an easy manner of living, for the sole purpose of publishing the 
 word of God, and this in such a way as to lay a foundation to en- 
 able others to publish it when I am dead. I do believe, if it shall 
 please God to bless my labors to the success of this design, I shall 
 thereby be made instrumental, in the end, of converting ten times 
 as many souls, as I could by any other course. Again, another 
 objects : " This work is good and important ; but may be attended 
 to by others, and you may devote your whole time to preaching." 
 I have but one work, and this is the publishing of the gospel by 
 every means possible, and I believe there is no way that I can be 
 more useful, than the one in which I am engaged. The es- 
 tablishment of a well regulated Book Concern, on a permanent ba- 
 sis, is a task attended with no small difficulty by any denomination. 
 Many attempts have been made, and few have succeeded to any 
 extent. Indeed I know of none except the Methodist Book Con- 
 cern, and that has been favored with great advantages. * * 
 
 D. Marks. 
 
 CHAPTER XXV. 
 
 Tour to New York and Upper Canada, return to New England, 
 another tour to New York, labors in New England till Septem- 
 ber, 1835, return to New York, journey to Upper Canada. 
 
 Journal. " At the close of the General Conference, I set my 
 face towards New York, accompanied by my companion. AVe had 
 now been in New England more than two years ; and, for the 
 spread of the gospel, had been situated like certain preachers that 
 lived in Asia eighteen hundred years ago, " having no certain abid- 
 ing place." On the way, we attended the New Durham quarterly 
 meeting in Canterbury ; the brethren gave me the most liberal 
 contribution I had ever received. In Fishersfield, I had an in- 
 terview with Elder Timothy Morse. [Elder Morse had been a 
 very successful preacher, and was cotemporary with Randall. Ed.] 
 The June previous, I was much struck with a remark he made as 
 he arose to preach. " Brethren," said he, " I have come to finish 
 up my work. I shall never attend our yearly meeting again, or 
 preach to you any more." His sermon was more like the last 
 warning of a faithful minister, than like usual preaching. Still I 
 could not then think he was about to die, as his appearance did not 
 
DAVID MARKS. 307 
 
 betray much ill health. But now, his pale countenance witnessed 
 with his testimony that his end was nigh. He was sitting in a 
 chair, with a staff in his hand, just able to walk about the house. 
 Said he, " I have finished my work, and am almost home, and all I 
 fear, is, that I shall commit sin in my anxiety to be gone." He 
 exhorted me to continue steadfast, and expressed great comfort in 
 the reflection that he had preached plain truth in the simplicity of 
 the gospel. Witnessing day and night against the spirit and pride of 
 the world. He said he had felt great satisfaction in seeing the 
 estabhshment of a Book Concern, and rejoiced that the denomination 
 was furnished with such an excellent hymn book. I felt very sol- 
 emn as I took my leave, being satisfied that his abundant and faith- 
 ful labors were done. 
 
 Sabbath, October 21, I preached in AYindsor, Vt., and during the 
 week proceeded to Russia, N. Y. where we were very courteously 
 received by the Free-communion Baptists. Sabbath, Oct. 28, 1 had 
 the privilege of preaching Christ to them. Leaving Russia, I attended 
 meetings with the churches in Fabius and Spafford. In the latter 
 place, there had been considerable departure from the faith, in em- 
 bracing Monnonism. Consequently, the exposure of this delusion 
 was the subject of discourse. If we were correctly informed, the 
 Mormons had gathered a church of about forty members, made up 
 mostly of Methodists, Presbyterians, and Free-will Baptists. Nov. 
 2, we arrived at my father's in Tyre, (formerly a part of Junius,) 
 where we met a very affectionate reception. After having a sol- 
 emn interview with my youngest brother in an adjacent town, who 
 was thought to be lying at the point of death, we continued our 
 journey to Canandaigua. A revival was progressing here, and 
 within a few months, more than one hundred and fifty souls had 
 been added to the Lord. We remained a few days, and had heav- 
 enly seasons in the worship of God. In this time I had the privi- 
 lege of baptizing my brother next younger than myself, and my 
 only sister. 
 
 Tuesday, Nov. 13, we left Canandaigua on a tour to Upper Cana- 
 da, and on arriving at Rochester, were courteously received by Mr. 
 Graham, formerly a resident in Canada. This gentleman contin- 
 ued with his family in this city, during the raging of the late pes- 
 tilence. While surrounded by the overflowing scourge, Mrs. Gra- 
 ham stood by the bed of the sick and dying, to administer to their 
 wants. It was thought more dangerous to be with the dead than 
 with the sick; still when she heard that five had died in a neigh- 
 boring house, and that the body of the last was now left alone, she 
 hastened to the deserted dwelling, and was much affected by the 
 silent gloom that reigned in this house of death. She returned 
 home, was soon seized by the cholera, and her case considered 
 
308 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 hopeless. She was composed, for her trust was in God. Med- 
 icine had the desired effect, her spasms ceased, and she recovered. 
 Thursday, Nov. 15, I attended a meeting in Clarkson. The 
 church was enjoying a revival, and several presented themselves 
 for prayer. The Sabbath following, I preached in Lewiston ; next 
 day, crossed the Niagara, and arrived at St. Catharines, wet and 
 weary. Here we met friends who had suffered the severest be- 
 reavements by the cholera. Leaving St. Catharines, we proceed- 
 ed to Hamilton, a small village near the head of lake Ontario, where 
 we were informed tliat the pestilence suddenly made its appearance 
 without any known medium of introduction, and soon forty-two 
 were hurried to eternity. Nov. 22, we met a most affectionate 
 welcome at the parental home in Zorra, and our hearts were filled 
 with thankfulness for that guardian care and protection that had at- 
 tended us through the fatigues of a long tedious journey, amidst 
 the rains of autumn, and the deep mud, that in this section of coun- 
 try makes travelling at this season extremely wearisome both to 
 man and beast. I spent ten days in this town and in Oxford,, 
 preached twelve sermons in different neighborhoods, and enjoyed 
 some very comforting seasons. In the latter town we visited the be- 
 reaved family of the late Col. C. Ingersoll. He officiated at our mar- 
 riage ceremony, and for several years was a member of parliament. 
 In a former visit, more than two years since, we were affectionate- 
 ly received in his family, and the sun of fortune shone brightly on 
 all their earthly prospects. Mr. Ingersoll did not profess to be a 
 Christian, but listened with complaisance to my entreaties that he 
 would choose the better part, sometimes dropped a tear, and as the 
 claims of the gospel were urged upon him, confessed his duty. 
 When the cholera unsheathed its sword on this continent, he invit- 
 ed his friends, whose situation exposed them to the pestilence, to 
 take refuge in his retired dwelling, little thinking it would be the 
 scene of its ravages. He had continued his neglect of God, till a 
 few weeks previous to his death, when he became very thoughtful, 
 and built, at his own expense, a small, convenient house for public 
 worship. He finally became very solemnly impressed with the 
 idea that he was going to die, and decided to submit to the Savior. 
 Accordingly, he wrote his will, and felt that his peace was made 
 with God. Soon after, there were a few cases of cholera in his 
 neighborhood. Next Mr. Ingersoll's son, aged thirteen years, was 
 seized, and soon afterwards Mr. Ingersoll. The son died at eight 
 in the morning, was buried at twelve, A. M., and the father at 
 eight in the evening, and at the lonely hour of midnight was laid 
 in the grave by the side of his son. He was composed and happy, 
 and had his senses till a short time before his death." 
 
DAVID MARKS. 309 
 
 Mr. Marks left Oxford on Monday, Dec. 4, to visit the Free-will 
 Baptist churches in the towns west. Some particulars are detail- 
 ed in the following letter. 
 
 "London, December 12, 1832. 
 My dear wife, 
 
 * * On the day I left my "world of comfort," I 
 preached in Westminster. Though thickly settled, there was 
 scarcely a professor of religion in the neighborhood. Still, the 
 people, by their solemnity and attention to the word, manifested 
 that they were not indifferent to " life's great concern." Tuesday 
 evening, I had a meeting in Nissouri, and the day following, I went 
 to the north part of London, accompanied by two brethren. We 
 had to swim our horses over the north branch of the Thames ; I got 
 wet and was much fatigued, and next morning found that my expos- 
 ures, together with improper food, had greatly debilitated my stomach, 
 so that I have since been able to retain little food except gruel and 
 broiled fresh meat. As a consequence, my strength is considerably 
 reduced. I have had blessed meetings with the church in London. 
 Several of the unconverted in the vicinity have covenanted with 
 me to seek the Lord. A new church of twenty-one members has 
 been gathered in the east part of the town. In South wold I found 
 the state of religion low — the church had had little preaching for 
 many months. Our meetings, however, were considerably refreshing. 
 There are now five churches of our denomination, all situated 
 within forty miles of each other. I am of opinion that they might 
 be profitably organized into a quarterly meeting. I am to preach 
 again in this place, and then in Westminster, on my return to Ox- 
 ford. 
 
 In general, I have felt comforted by the presence of our dear 
 Redeemer, but I feel the need of being more devoted to Him. O 
 that I were more spiritual, more humble, and that my faith in God 
 was stronger. This morning I felt depressed, under a sense of my 
 unworthiness, and entered into a covenant to be more faithful. We 
 have but little while to stay in this vale of tears, and my prayer to 
 God is, that the interests of Zion, the salvation of souls, and the 
 glory of God, may be our only object and aim ; in this way, we 
 shall enjoy peace of conscience, peace with God, and we shall en- 
 joy even this life better than it could be possibly enjoyed otherwise. 
 Sometimes the thought occurs, that we may not meet again in this 
 world ; yes, many friends have parted even indifferently for a 
 much less time, who never met again on earth ; but — thank kind 
 Heaven for one thing — while we have been together, we have liv- 
 ed in the love of God, and should our parting be a final one, the 
 one that shall go will be the gainer, and the one that stays will have 
 an Almighty Protector, and an eternal Friend. how good it is 
 
310 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 to feel and know, that for us " to live is Christ, and to die would be 
 gain ;" therefore let us patiently submit to God in all things, be 
 thankful for his mercies, and prepared for the ills of life, which 
 are inseparable from this mortal state. My love to our parents, 
 brothers, sister, and friends. Farewell. 
 
 Your affectionate husband, 
 
 David Marks. 
 
 Journal. " Dec. 23. We bade our dear parents farewell, and 
 commenced our return to Canandaigua. I preached in the Meth- 
 odist chapel in St. Catharines, and was abundantly favored. The 
 people treated me very affectionately. Dec. 29 and 30, we attend- 
 ed the Monroe quarterly meeting in Clarkson, which was followed 
 by a revival. Recently in Clarkson village, more than one hun- 
 dred had turned to the Lord. Jan. 2 — 8, 1833, I spent in Canan- 
 daigua, preaching daily, and rejoiced to see some fruit of my la- 
 bors. Jan. 9, I set out for the Benton quarterly meeting in Mid- 
 dlesex ; such was the state of the roads that I was • nearly ten 
 hours travelling ten miles, but by industry and perseverance, I 
 succeeded in getting through the next day. A profitable season 
 was enjoyed, and I was permitted to greet several of my earliest 
 Christian friends. Leaving Middlesex, I went to China and attend- 
 ed the Genesee quarterly meeting, (formerly called Bethany.) On 
 the Sabbath, the congregation was large, and not having a conven- 
 ient house for worship, three separate meetings were held. In this 
 place, the Mormon delusion had ensnared several who seemed to 
 have lost the power to reason. In vain do the Christians of dif- 
 ferent denominations think that their many conclusive arguments 
 will prevent the spread of this delusion. Alas ! there are thou- 
 sands who have no taste for reading any thing till the Mormon bi- 
 ble comes, and then they are so ignorant as to think it all wonder- 
 ful, miraculous, and purely from God. If their leaders find any 
 difficulty in persuading them to do any thing they please, there is 
 one way in which they are sure of success. Like Mahomet, they 
 come with a new command from Heaven, exactly suited to their 
 wishes, and their ends are accomphshed. 
 
 From Jan. 21 to Feb. 9, I preached daily among the churches 
 of the Genesee quarterly meeting, and labored, as opportunity of- 
 fered, to enlist their efforts in the Book Concern, foreign missions, 
 and the temperance cause. I next attended the Erie quarterly 
 meeting, at Little Valley. The reports from these churches were 
 refreshing, though there was a great cry among destitute churches 
 for help. The meetings of worship were very much crowded, and 
 several came forward for prayer. The Erie quarterly meeting 
 has now twenty-three churches, and only six ordained preachers. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 31 1 
 
 two of whom are laid aside on account of sickness. Two years 
 previous, a travelling ministry was established in this quarterly 
 meeting. Revivals spread under their labors in every direction : 
 nine churches were gathered, and three preachers ordained. One 
 of the ministers baptized more than a hundred. Leaving Little 
 Valley, I met thii*teen appointments, and, Feb. 27, arrived in Can- 
 andaigua." 
 
 The discussion of slavery had at tliis time just commenced, and 
 the Colonization Society was enjoying the confidence of many true 
 friends of the slave. Mr. Marks wrote thus on this subject, iri re- 
 ply to a letter received from Elder Elias Hutchins, who was then 
 in North Carolina. Elder Hutchins' letter was written during the 
 prevalence of a dreadful panic in a portion of the south, occasion- 
 ed by an insurrection of a few slaves in Virginia, led on by Nat 
 Turner. 
 
 « February 15, 1833. 
 
 Dear Brother, 
 
 * * * As to what you write of slavery, it is true 
 the evil is great, and I know not what will be the result more than 
 you do ; but I think, we, as a nation, may boast in vain of free- 
 dom, while we hold our fellow man in slavery. The slave trade 
 has led to the making of laws of a piece with it, and this iniquity 
 is established by law. Connected with slavery, is the expediency 
 of keeping the poor creatures in ignorance ; and a multitude of 
 evils follow of necessity. But I believe God will overrule, and 
 these slavish bands will yet be broken off. May that blessed day 
 be hastened. As to the danger that you and sister Hutchins are 
 in, from the rising of the blacks, I hope you will not let your heart 
 be troubled, for you know in whom you have believed : and con- 
 soling will be the reflection, that not a hair of your heads can fall 
 to the ground without the notice of your Heavenly Father. May 
 a sense of the protecting care of Him who delivered you from the 
 tempestuous deep during your voyage, comfort your heart, and 
 keep your soul in perfect peace. But as we know not when, nor 
 how, it will please our Heavenly Father to call us home, it should 
 be our daily labor to be ever ready, so that should the call be like 
 the thief in the night, we may be ready. 
 
 I believe a Society that is very popular has been for some time 
 in successful operation for the removal of free blacks to a new col- 
 ony in Africa. Some of the first men in our nation have been ac- 
 tive in its movements, and may we not hope that such Societies 
 will yet banish slavery from our shores. But if the rising of the 
 blacks is the worst difficulty that afflicts you in North Carolina, it 
 cannot be the only one that must seriously affect the people of that 
 
312 MfiMOliRS 01^ 
 
 state. The course pursued and still persisted in by South Caro- 
 lina, I think must agitate the public mind in the vicinity of your 
 travels.* What is this sad affair about to amount to ? In this 
 section of country, the people are generally much incensed against 
 the movements of South Carolina, and a spirit of war is so much 
 awakened, that, I am sorry to say, many seem to thirst for blood, 
 and even are anxious to go to the south to avenge, with the sword, 
 the treasonable movements of the Legislature of that state. AYhile 
 other nations have been in commotion, ours has long enjoyed peace, 
 and has little appreciated the value of its blessings. I fear our 
 sins, our dreadful sins, have provoked the Almighty, and that our 
 nation must receive of the cup of his indignation. * * 
 
 My health is very poor : dyspepsia and other diseases render 
 my life quite uncertain. But the Lord reigneth. Glory be to 
 God. Farewell. Your brother in Christ, 
 
 David Marks. 
 
 Journal. " In the early part of March, I attended a few meet- 
 ings in Scriba, and baptized some. The brethren w^ere steadfast, 
 and we had heavenly seasons. I spent the remainder of the 
 month with other churches in the Ontario and Benton quarterly 
 meetings. My dyspeptic difficulties had severely afflicted me 
 through the winter, and in the hope of being benefited, we con- 
 cluded to " keep house" a few days in our own little home in Can- 
 andaigua, that I might tiy the effect of a regular diet, and daily 
 manual labor, at the same time preaching less, and relinquisliing 
 study. My health under these circumstances improved rapidly, 
 and I was soon enabled to labor and attend to business sometimes 
 twenty hours in twenty-four. Blessed be God, for all his mercies. 
 
 April 25 — 28, I attended the Monroe quarterly meeting in By- 
 ron. It was a time of mourning, for the conference had before 
 them fair examples of the spirit and effects of false doctrines. 
 What is called Campbellism (being imderstood to be the opinions 
 of Alexander Campbell and Walter Scott,) had entangled the 
 minds of some of the preachers. A public discussion was held, in 
 which one, who had embraced these views, argued that the Holy 
 Spirit does not influence or strive with the world — ^that his mission 
 was, and is confined to the church, that none have been ministers 
 of Christ except such as were sent personally by him, — that all 
 true ministers in this day, are sent by the church to convert the 
 world, by compelling them, with sound and unanswerable argu- 
 ments, to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God — that the 
 Scriptures, abstract from the Spirit, are our only guide — that the 
 only things necessary for one to become a Christian are, to assent 
 
 * Reference is had to the nullification acta of South Carolina. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 313 
 
 to the truth of the facts contained in the Scriptures, reform, and 
 be immersed in water — ^that assent to the truth, and a purpose of 
 heart to obey the gospel, are sufficient qualifications for baptism — 
 that baptism is regeneration, and by it one is bom again, and in- 
 ducted into the kingdom of God, and has the promise of the Holy 
 Spirit — ^that repentance and faith, without immersion, do not enti- 
 tle one to the promise of the Spirit. On this occasion, I believe 
 the Lord especially assisted me in defending his truth, and in ex- 
 posing the fallacy of these views, which rob Christianity of its life 
 and soul. 
 
 After attending a few meetings in the vicinity of Byron and 
 Canandaigua, we bade our dear western brethren farewell, and 
 commenced our return to New England, having previously notified 
 a line of appointments. May 7 — 14, I preached with several 
 churches, and attended a session of the Benton quarterly meeting 
 at Middlesex. Some of these were refreshing seasons, and the 
 churches were prospering. May 15, I preached in Tyre, (former- 
 ly a part of Junius,) the place where I commenced a religious life. 
 Here I was filled with joy, for many who used to be scoffers of re- 
 ligion were now happy converts. A revival had almost entirely 
 changed the state of society, and rent the sad gloom that once veil- 
 ed the face of this people. Indeed, this whole section had been 
 wonderfully blessed. In the month of March, protracted meetings 
 commenced in Auburn (a few miles from Tyre) with the Metho- 
 dists and Presbyterians, which continued five weeks, in which 
 time, as we were informed, six hundred joined each society, making 
 twelve hundred that in this short period professed to turn to God. 
 
 Leaving Tyre, we proceeded on our way to New England, but 
 met with difficulties occasioned by a late flood. The turnpike, near 
 the Montezuma marshes, for about three-fourths of a mile, was 
 overflowed with running water, from one to two feet in depth. 
 When we had passed this almost " ocean for a highway," we hoped 
 we had escaped the greatest danger in our journey ; but, the next 
 day, soon after leaving Weedsport, before we were aware, we 
 found ourselves surrounded by water, and the road entirely wash- 
 ed away. The only alternative was to proceed. Our horses and 
 carriage were washed nearly under by a heavy current and some 
 damages sustained. Through a kind Providence, our lives were 
 preserved, and after a few hours, we were able again to go for- 
 ward. Sabbath, May 19, I preached in Spafford and Fabius. In 
 the former place, Mormonism continued to bear some sway, though 
 its adherents had been divided among themselves. Pursuing our 
 journey, I preached in Eaton, Hamilton, Trenton, Russia, Nor- 
 way, N. Y., in Arlington and Windsor, Vt., and on the 8th of 
 June, arrived at Gilford, N. H. 
 27 
 
314 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 June 9 and 10, the New Hampshire yearly meeting was held in 
 Gilford, and its interest was greatly heightened by the presence of 
 Mr. Amos Sutton, General Baptist missionary from Orissa. His 
 health having failed, physicians advised a voyage to a northern 
 climate. He decided to improve the opportunity to visit America, 
 and, if possible, get some missionaries to return with him. His 
 pale, emaciated countenance gave an additional interest to his ap- 
 pearance. On the Sabbath, it was judged that about 3000 were 
 present ; and as Mr. Sutton commenced speaking, every eye was 
 fixed. Said he, " As I arise to speak, I seem to see the seventy 
 millions of India, with bended knees and tearful eyes, saying, 
 * Sir, plead our cause — -plead it effectually.' My residence is 
 near the temple of Jugurnath, which signifies the Lord of the 
 world. There are in India thirty-three millions of gods. There 
 are more missionaries sent out from Jugurnath to invite the people 
 to make pilgrimage to this temple, than there are from all the 
 Christian world. I have seen two hundred and fifty thousand peo- 
 ple congregated at once at the temple of Jugurnath, and have also 
 seen the poor worshippers throw themselves under the wheels of 
 the idol's car, where they were crushed to death ! mashed in pieces, 
 and as the spokes, which were made to project through the felloes, 
 fell upon them, I have seen their blood and brains spirt in every 
 direction!" Mr. Sutton exhibited a number of idols : Jugurnath, 
 their principal god, was a strange and ugly looking image. He 
 stated some of the arguments by which his deluded worshippers 
 proved his divinity. One was, his ears came down to his shoul- 
 ders ; another, that he could sit in the position represented by his 
 image. [The position of a tailor.] Another argument in proof of 
 his divinity was, that from the top of his head there arose a kind 
 -of spire, which they supposed to be the projection of the rays of 
 glory. He related many affecting anecdotes, among which was the 
 following : 
 
 " One day, as I went out into a neighboring village to preach, I 
 saw a woman with an infant, apparently about eight months old, 
 lying under a tree, in the agonies of the cholera. She was from 
 upper Hindoostan, and had probably been deserted by her friends. 
 I gave her some medicine, but she soon died. The poor child 
 seemed almost famished. I tried to get some one in the village to 
 take it, but met with the uniform answer, " Why, let it die, it is 
 only a girl." After about two hours' effort, I succeeded in getting 
 «, tea-cup half full of milk. As the little creature saw me approach 
 her, she stretched out her little hands towards me, as if she would 
 say, * Sir, have pity upon me, for if you do not, there is not one in 
 this wide world that will.' I could not resist this touching appeal. 
 I took the child home to my wife j we adopted her as our own, 
 
DAVID MARKS. 315 
 
 and have brouglit her with us to this country. She is now an inter- 
 esting Httle girl, about five years old." Mr. Sutton's delineations 
 were so graphic that he seemed to remove his hearers to the seat 
 of idolatry, and to cause them to see with their own eyes some of 
 the sorrows of those who hasten after other gods, while tears, sighs, 
 and even shrieks, spoke the anguish of many hearts. At the close 
 of the meeting, a collection of one hundred dollars was taken for 
 the cause of missions. How criminal have been our ignorance and 
 neglect of this holy enterprise, and how wonderful that providence 
 that has illumined our darkness. 
 
 Monday, June 11, we left Gilford for Limerick, Me. ; and, on 
 the way, spent a night with brother Hosea Quinby, preceptor of 
 Parsonsfield Seminary. The prospects of the school were good, 
 and some more than sixty students were in attendance. June 13 
 and 14, I met with the Publishing Committee. The Morning Star 
 had been enlarged without addition to the price, — the subscription 
 list had been much increased, and Samuel Beede appointed one of 
 the assistant editors. My time, until the 22d of June, was closely 
 occupied in Limerick and vicinity, in preaching and attending to 
 business for the Book Concern. During this time, I had a very 
 interesting interview with brother Sutton, and some conversation 
 about publishing for him a Narrative of the Orissa Mission. 
 
 June 22. Having been urgently requested, I went to New Dur- 
 ham to stay a few days, and at least sigh over the desolations of 
 Zion in the place where our denomination took its rise. The 
 winds of doctrine for years had blasted the hopes of the gospel la- 
 borer, and Universalism had taken many in its snare. Though 
 the state of the church in this place could not be compared to the 
 temporal desolations that have succeeded in the land where the 
 gospel of Christ was first preached, yet, in general, there appeared 
 little activity and holy zeal, compared with what we might expect 
 in a place where Randall labored so much, and where his sleeping 
 dust reposes. Alas ! every age of the church has presented a prac- 
 tical proof that this is a backsliding world. I held a few meetings ; 
 solemnity clothed the congregations, and there appeared to be deep 
 searchings of heart. Sabbath, June 30, I preached three times to 
 a very large assembly. In the last meeting, the Spirit of the Lord 
 was in our midst like the early rain. Several came forward for 
 . prayer, five of whom, in a most affecting manner, prayed for mer- 
 cy. One of these soon rejoiced, and another, with great anguish 
 of soul, confessed that for two years he had tried to believe Uni- 
 versalism ; but now he knew it would not do, and in the presence 
 of several strong advocates of this system, he earnestly prayed God 
 to sweep away this refuge of lies. This meeting continued with 
 much interest for five hours. The five ensuing days, I visited 
 
316 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 from house to house, and attended meetings. Numbers came for- 
 ward for prayer, and several were converted. 
 
 July 6 and 7, I attended meetings at Great Falls and Dover. 
 At the latter place I was greatly blessed in preaching from Phil. 
 5:6 — 8. " Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Je- 
 sus," &c. Never had I felt so great a weight of the subject as I 
 did at this time. The bve of Christ in laying aside God-like 
 form and riches, that we, poor rebels, might be rich, appeared be- 
 fore me with inexpressible majesty, and the mandate of the Scrip- 
 ture, " Let this mind he in you^^ came to my soul so full of mean- 
 ing, that I was filled with astonishment that Christians could be 
 contented to do so little for the advancement of the Redeemer's 
 kingdom. I felt so much convicted by the truth I had preached, 
 that I determined to contribute more liberally to missions of the 
 little over which God had made me steward. During the week I 
 held several meetings. 
 
 Sabbath, July 14. At an early hour we were visited by a thun- 
 der shower, and a beautiful rainbow, which rendered the morning 
 very majestic. Soon afterwards I learned that three persons were 
 killed with lightning in New Hampton. On this day, I held five 
 meetings, and baptized a young brother just converted from sin 
 and Universalism. He came out of the water praising God, and 
 so solemn was the scene that many wept. 
 
 Having agreed with Mr. Sutton to publish a history of the Gen- 
 eral Baptist Mission in Orissa, I went to Sandwich, Monday, July 
 1:5, and engaged brother Beede to go to Boston and superintend 
 its publication. Thence I returned to Limerick, and attended to 
 important business connected with the Book Concern. Sabbath, 
 July 21, I preached to a large assembly in Alton. Great attention 
 was paid to the word, and fourteen came forward for prayer. July 
 28, I preached in New Durham, from Luke : " Cut it down, why 
 cumbereth it the ground?'* It was a solemn, weeping season. 
 Five penitents continued kneeling and praying for about an hour, 
 as though loth to leave till they had evidence of their submission 
 to God. 
 
 Since my return to New England, my New York correspondents 
 had continued to inform me of the havoc Campbellism was making 
 in the churches of the Holland Purchase yearly meeting. Until 
 the introduction of these sentiments, there had been the most hap- 
 py union in this branch of the Free-will Baptist denomination. 
 Now the yearly meeting was in a very distracted condition. Four 
 ministers of considerable influence, had embraced these views, and 
 had zealously propagated them. My mind had become so pain- 
 fully exercised, that I had concluded it was my duty to attend the 
 next session of the yearly meeting, which was to be held the ensu- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 317 
 
 ihg August, five hundred miles distant. Still there were obstacles 
 in my way. I was incurring new responsibilities in the publica- 
 tion of works in the press ; the expenses of my journey would 
 amount to about fifty dollars, and it was a critical time to leave. I 
 had scarcely made this conclusion, when I received a letter from 
 the Monroe quarterly meeting, requesting me to attend the ensu- 
 ing session of the yearly meeting, and offering to bear my expen- 
 ses. As I had been stigmatized by one of the leaders of this 
 schism, as the " would-he-pope" I thought the presence and coun- 
 sel of some of our older eastern ministers would be a blessing to 
 the yearly meeting. Accordingly I went to Strafford, and, with 
 much entreaty, persuaded Elder Place to accompany me, paying 
 him SIO to employ a man on his farm during his absence, and ob- 
 ligating myself to bear his expenses, or see that they were borne.* 
 
 Thursday, Aug. 1, I went to New Market, and met a very af- 
 fectionate reception from Elder D. P. Cilley, who was laboring in 
 this place. In the evening, I enjoyed a good season in dispensing 
 the word of life, but I understood that several who had supposed 
 the minister would preach so as to electrify them, went away dis- 
 appointed. During the three days following, I preached in the 
 same place. The Sabbath was a day of intense interest. My soul 
 was unusually enlarged in speaking, while deep solemnity clothed 
 the audience. Many tears were shed, and there appeared a pros- 
 pect that good would follow. At the close of the meeting, brother 
 Cilley baptized five happy converts, nearly all of whom came out 
 of the water shouting and praising God. The large attentive as- 
 sembly on the banks of the stream, seemed much affected. A re- 
 vival followed, and, I was informed, that two days after this meet- 
 ing, twenty were converted. The week following, I spent in Lim- 
 erick, making preparation for my journey. Sabbath, Aug. 11, I 
 preached three sermons at Great Falls, and the " word of the Lordi 
 was like fire shut up in my bones." 
 
 The location of the printing ofiice at Limerick, Me. which was 
 an inland town, without a bindery, and visited by the mail only 
 twice a week, subjected Mr. Marks, as Agent, to much expense 
 and perplexity, and he had for some time been decided to effect, if' 
 possible, its removal. But wishing to avoid censure, he concluded; 
 to submit the matter to the ensuing General Conference. He- 
 wrote Mr. Beede, who was still in Boston, on this and other sub- 
 jects, as follows : 
 
 " August 9, 1833. 
 
 My dear brother, 
 
 * * About 4500 copies of the Scriptural Catechism- 
 are published, but we have almost endless perplexities in publisH- 
 
 * A little of this expense was defrayed by brethren, but Mr. Marks paid most of it. 
 
 27* 
 
318 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ing books in the country. Just to print this little work, we have 
 had to send a man twice to Portland, [30 miles] and in one in- 
 stance, he had to stay five days, waiting for paper. Brother Burr 
 and myself are about discouraged. We think the removal of the 
 office the only remedy ; the sooner the better, unless we should in- 
 cur censure. I think it should be removed by the advice of Con- 
 ference, as soon as the first of November, either to Dover or Bos- 
 ton. 
 
 July 30, I attended the first meeting of the corporation of the 
 Strafford Academy. The Legislature has granted the corporation 
 the privilege of holdmg $15,000 without taxation. About SI 000 have 
 been subscribed, and the building is to be enclosed and fitted for a 
 school by the 15th of October. I feel deeply the want of a systematic, 
 theological course of study. You have been instrumental, in some 
 measure, in correcting my opinions on different points, and for 
 this I thank you. I hope you will continue your favors, and give 
 me your advice with regard to the course of study most advisable 
 for me to pursue, the time best to spend in it, &c. &c., and, withal, 
 pray for me, that I may ever be humble, like a little child, and that 
 I may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord. For some months 
 past, I have had such a sense of the imperfect state of the church, 
 the lack of energy in its ministers and membership, that my heart 
 has bled at every pore, until sometimes I have almost feared I 
 should bleed to death. Do give me any advice you may see need- 
 ful, with regard to my exertions for the service of Zion. I am 
 willing, yes, it is my blessed privilege, to give all I have for the 
 sanctification of the church and the salvation of the world. God 
 has already made you instrumental of much good among us. May 
 you keep very humble, live in the Spirit, and feel your dependence 
 on our Heavenly Father, that your usefulness may abound. I 
 feel my spirit greatly stirred up, and pressed to write on different 
 topics, in the Star. I have written down about fifty subjects, on 
 which I wish I could write immediately. 
 
 I have been well pleased in general with your articles in the 
 Star. Some complain of your pointed pen and severe rebukes. 
 * * * * With you, I am satisfied that our denom- 
 ination needs a great reform : and may God give you faith, wis- 
 dom, and success, as a reformer among us. Although, when I can- 
 not see the propriety or usefulness of a measure, I must under- 
 stand^ and judge, and act for myself, I assure you, I will not de- 
 sert you, so long as I am convinced that reform will be the effect 
 of your labor, and thus long I shall be happy to be a co-worker 
 with you. I have sometimes feared you would be discouraged and 
 leave the denomination ; and then again, I have thought you 
 
DAVID MAEKS. 319 
 
 would be compelled to stay with us for conscience' sake, however 
 much you may be grieved with our imperfections. * * 
 Farewell. Your brother in tribulation, D. Marks." 
 
 Mr. Beede's reply contained the following ; 
 
 * * " I am glad to have you collect the objections you 
 find brethren making to any thing of mine, and wish carefully to 
 weigh them all. The welfare of our denomination lies near my 
 heart. I am fully convinced, that unless a bold hand of reform 
 and improvement is exerted, our prosperity cannot be secured. 
 Slight exertions can accomplish nothing answerable to the crisis, 
 because we need much change from long established practices, and 
 in the face of determined opposition. With this view, I have pur- 
 sued the course I have, in the Star, in perfect accordance with the 
 instructions of my brethren of the Committee at their session in 
 January last. My instructions were to exhibit Scripture doctrine. 
 This I have endeavored to do, carefully withholding every thing 
 offensive, which the crisis does not absolutely demand. I expect 
 opposition — it cannot be otherwise. I look for many to be dissat- 
 isfied — it must necessarily be. I do not intend to faint nor be in- 
 timidated in a good cause, so long as I profess the name of Christ. 
 But unless reform succeeds with a powerful hand, numbers of our 
 intelligent members will leave, for their usefulness would, in their 
 view, be more promising in some other denomination than ours. 
 When I contemplate the pointed exhibitions of errors and sins, 
 and the sharp reproofs for them, that are conspicuous in Christ's 
 teaching addressed to the Jews — ^in the epistles to the Corinthians 
 and Galatians (one of which reproofs was given to the inspired 
 apostle, Peter) — in the epistles of James and Peter — and in those 
 addressed to the seven churches of Asia — and when I reflect that 
 all these were addressed directly to the professed followers of God, 
 or professed teachers of the people, and that too in a public man- 
 ner ; and when I am also conscious, that the most useful and pious 
 servants of the church in every denomination, present and past, 
 have exposed the obvious sins and imperfections of their brethren, 
 and sharply rebuked them before the world, my soul shudders that 
 I have ventured forward no more boldly through the Star — and I 
 tremble, I fear, for that temporizing, softened policy that is in so 
 high esteem among us. Unless abandoned, it will eventually ruin 
 us. * * * Yours in love, S. Beede." 
 
 The following letter contains a few particulars connected with 
 Mr. Marks' tour to New York to attend the Holland Purchase 
 yearly meeting. 
 
820 MEMOIRS OV 
 
 "Byron, August 26, 1833. 
 My Dear Wife, 
 
 * * I met Elder Place at Alton, Tuesday, August 
 12 ; next morning we set off, and Friday night, arrived at your 
 brother's in Arlington, Vt., where we left our carriage and took the 
 stage for Albany. Being detained two hours in Albany, we visit- 
 ed the State House and City Hall, two very superb buildings. In 
 the City Hall, we saw the most striking and solemn painting that 
 I ever beheld. It was " Danby's Opening of the sixth seal" — the 
 judgment day. Even the sight was truly awful. We did not see 
 a smile among the visitants, and as for myself, I could not refrain 
 from tears. The painting was ten feet by eight. First, there was 
 a view of the sun turned to the blackest darkness, and the heavens 
 wrapped in the most dismal gloom. In these clouds of darkness, 
 there appeared streaks of lightning interspersed among their thick 
 dark folds. Next, there was a column of light, incomparably 
 brighter than any fire I ever saw, darting from the frowning heav- 
 ens, representing the appearance of the Son of God not yet come 
 in sight. In the middle of the view, the brightest fire was blazing, 
 and flames were starting up behind the falling cities, and the crum- 
 bling mountains tossing to and fro. All classes of men were in 
 confusion ; a slave, almost naked, stood with broken manacles, 
 reaching his hands toward heaven and looking upward, while kings 
 lay helpless at his feet. Over the wreck of all created matter, a 
 small, pure, unclouded cross personified that majesty which is be- 
 yond all human power to conceive. But language fails to give a 
 just representation. Please read the sixth chapter of Revelation, 
 and picture to your imagination the most literal, accomplishment 
 of every word.* 
 
 At Albany, we took the railroad for Schenectady. I must de- 
 lay a particular description of this wonderful modern invention till 
 I see you. It is a mode of travelling which I assure you exactly 
 suits me. O, what facilities for spreading the gospel will railroads 
 and steam navigation yet furnish. At Schenectady we took a tem- 
 perance boat. Soon a man in tattered garments came on board, 
 begging a free passage. In a few minutes, he took from his pock- 
 et a bottle and drank. This made him very religious : he said he 
 had had the good seed sown in his heart, and if he should drink 
 ten thousand hogsheads of rum, it would not unchristianize him. 
 
 * The public journals, both in England and America, were lavish in their encomiums 
 of this celebrated painting. It was pronounced by some English judges, the greatest pic- 
 ture of the kind ever spread on canvass ; and it was stated that "from the fame it gain- 
 ed, his Majest}', George IV., desired to be the purchaser ; but this right was claimed by 
 Wm. Beekford, Esq. of Fonthill Abbey, he having made previous application. The hon- 
 orable members of the British Institution, being also excluded the privilege, presented the 
 artist with three hundred guiueas as a reward of his talent." Ei>. 
 
DAVID MABKS. 821 
 
 August 22, we arrived in Byron, met several ministers, and in 
 the evening, I had a most refreshing time in preaching. The ses- 
 sion of the yearly meeting commenced next morning. It was a 
 very interesting though trying season. I think the -object of our 
 journey (the suppression of the spread of Campbellism among us) 
 is accomplished; but it will be some time before our western 
 churches will recover from the shock they have received. Three 
 ministers who have been active in the dissemination of these er- 
 rors, are now disowned. It has been a painful ordeal. The year- 
 ly meeting resolved itself into a temperance society, and the meet- 
 ings of worship were encouraging. Sabbath evening, seventeen or 
 eighteen presented themselves for prayer, and during the yearly 
 meeting, two or three found peace in believing. 
 
 Since I parted with you, I have thought of you much, and have 
 missed you all the time, but have kept my mind so close to my 
 studies, and to the duties before me, that I have had no time to 
 give up to lonely feelings. When I reflect how evanescent are all 
 the joys of this world, and how soon you, and I, and all our friends 
 will be no more on the earth, and have no share in all that is done 
 under the sun, O, how empty this world appears. Time gives 
 pleasures for a few days — eternity takes us from them all. Time 
 gives objects of pursuit — eternity rends us from them. In time, 
 our friends give us comfort — in eternity, God will be our only 
 fountain of happiness. O, my dear Marilla, may that Christian 
 calmness, affection, faithfulness, and devotion, which have hitherto 
 marked your conduct, and interwoven your soul with mine, mark 
 your path till death. If you weep, may the Lord bottle your tears, 
 and pour the sweet consolations of heaven into your cup. Fare- 
 well. Your affectionate husband, D. Marks." 
 
 Mr. Marks returned to New England the early part of Septem- 
 ber, attended a " three days' meeting" in Northwood, and preach- 
 ed in several towns on his way to Limerick. He spent a few days 
 in this tour, preparing his business for the inspection of the Pub- 
 lishing Committee, who were soon to meet, and in making a report 
 of the Book Concern affairs for the ensuing General Conference. 
 The latter part of September he again wrote in his journal : 
 
 " September 27, I attended the funeral of a woman in Acton, 
 Me. who triumphed gloriously in her last conflict. The assembly 
 was greatly melted by the truths presented, and my own soul deep- 
 ly felt their power. The text was Job 14:12. " So man lieth 
 down and riseth not : till the heavens be no more they shall not 
 awake nor be raised out of their sleep." My propositions were 
 as follows. 1. That sin is the original cause of death. 2. That 
 though occasioned by transgression, God had appointed it in jus- 
 tice, and for our good. 3. That through grace it is a part of the 
 
MEMOIRS Of 
 
 Christian's treasure. 4. That the circumstances attendant on our 
 dissolution are calculated deeply to impress the human mind. 5. 
 That death is a state of sensibility to the soul. 6. That man shall 
 live again. 7. That future existence will be infinitely joyous to 
 the righteous, and sorrowful to the wicked. 8. That as we are 
 forming characters for our eternal destiny, we should be careful 
 how we live. 
 
 September 30, I preached twice in Springvale, and next day, 
 met the Publishing Committee at Limerick. I found considerable 
 sensitiveness existing in Limerick and vicinity about the proposed 
 removal of the printing office. Slanderous reports were in circu- 
 lation, designed to shake the public confidence in my integrity, and 
 produce the impression that I intended to monopolize, for my own 
 selfish purposes, all the property of the Book Concern. But " it is 
 enough that the servant be as his lord. If they have called the 
 Master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call 
 them of his household ?" 
 
 October 9 — 15. I attended the seventh session of the General 
 Conference in Strafford, Vt. as a delegate from the Holland Pur- 
 chase yearly meeting. It was a very interesting time, and the busi- 
 ness was transacted with more unanimity than on any former oc- 
 casion. A delegate was received from the Free-communion Bap- 
 tists in New York, and it was agreed to continue the correspond- 
 ence with this body of Christians, hoping that we shall yet become 
 one people. 
 
 The Conference advised the removal of the printing office to 
 Dover, re-appointed me Agent, and S. B. Dyer, S. Curtis, W. 
 Burr, and D. P. Cilley, Publishing Committee, and agreed that we 
 should be governed by the following rules. "1. It shall be the 
 duty of the Book Agent to notify the Publishing Committee of 
 their appointment, and call the first meeting of the Committee, which 
 shall be within one month from the Conference. 2. ' He shall pro- 
 vide the necessary buildings and utensils for the printing establish- 
 ment, publish, and as far as practicable, make sales of all such 
 books as the Committee shall direct ; collect all monies, and pay 
 all debts ; provided, however, that whenever the Agent shall think 
 the Committee require him to exceed the proper bounds in incur- 
 ring expenses, he may request them to give him security, and in 
 case they omit to do this, the Agent shall be at liberty to decide 
 whether to publish or not. 3. It shall be the privilege of the 
 Agent to cast his vote with the Publishing Committee in all mat- 
 ters relative to the Book Concern. 4. It shall be the duty of the 
 Agent to report the state of his accounts, and of the Book Con- 
 cern, to the General Conference. 5. It shall be the duty of the 
 Publishing Committee to employ the printer and editor creditors 
 
DAVID MARKS. 323 
 
 to manage the publication of the Morning Star, to fill vacancies in 
 the committee and agency-^ — to select and prepare for publication 
 such books as they may deem expedient — and give to the Agent 
 such direction as they shall think essential to the prosperity of the 
 establishment. 6. They shall annually examine and settle the ac- 
 counts of the Agent, and report their doings to the General Con- 
 ference. 7. In case the Agent should not properly manage the 
 business of the Book Concern, it shall be the duty of the Publish- 
 ing Committee to make examination, and, if necessary, to dismiss 
 him, see that he is cleared from his engagements, and appoint an- 
 other in his stead." 
 
 The " Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will Baptists" in manu- 
 script, was read to the Conference. Its sentiments, with some 
 amendments, were approved. The work was then committed to 
 the Publishing Committee and Agent to abridge and revise for 
 publication. A committee of five were also appointed to meet 
 with them to examine the work as soon as it was done, and if nec- 
 essary, give it a further revision, and certify that the sentiments, 
 as left by the Conference, have been retained by the Committee 
 and Agent. 
 
 Brother Sutton attended the Conference, and gave a new im- 
 pulse to the missionary cause. As he had decided to visit England, 
 the Conference addressed a letter to the committee of the General 
 Baptist Mission Society, requesting them to permit Mr. Sutton, on 
 his return from England, to labor with us for a season to forward 
 the missionary enterprise among us." 
 
 The following extract is taken from a copy of a letter Mr. 
 Marks wrote at this time to Mr. J. G. Pike, Secretary of the Gen- 
 eral Baptist Mission Society, and known in this country, as the au- 
 thor of " Persuasives to Early Piety," " Guide to Young Disci- 
 ples," &c. 
 
 « Strafford, Vt., October, 1833. 
 My Dear Brother, 
 
 When I was sixteen years old, while on a passage up lake 
 Erie, I formed a short acquaintance with three persons from Eng- 
 land, who said they were members of a religious community called 
 General Baptists. Finding their sentiments nearly the same as 
 those of Free-will Baptists in America, I became much interested 
 in them.* They handed me several books ; and among them was 
 your " Persuasives to Early Piety." This I read with avidity, 
 and on parting with my new friends, it was extremely hard to re- 
 
 * The name Free-will Baptist waa given us by our predestinarian brethren, on ac- 
 count of our rejecting the doctrine of a particular atonement, and teaching that the free 
 grace of God gives power to every sinner to change his will, and conform it to the gos- 
 pel. 
 
324 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 linquish it. Its contents deeply impressed my mind, and served 
 to increase my anxiety for the conversion of souls. Six years af- 
 terwards, to my great joy, I met with a copy of this work at the 
 printing office devoted to the service of our denomination, where 
 an edition had just been published. I distributed about fifty cop- 
 ies, and have frequently had the satisfaction of hearing that others 
 too have profited by its perusal. Since that time, it has been ste- 
 reotyped and published by the Sabbath School Union, so that it is 
 now afforded cheap, and is extensively circulated. About eighteen 
 months since, I obtained a copy of your " Guide to Young Disci- 
 ples," and soon after, by the directions of a Publishing Committee 
 appointed by our General Conference, I published two thousand 
 copies of an extract from this work, including that part which 
 speaks of the character of Christ and the personality of the Holy 
 Spirit. The edition has been distributed, and has already done 
 much good. * * * 
 
 My dear sir, I feel very grateful to you, and to my Heavenly 
 Father, for the spiritual benefit that my brethren, myself, and oth- 
 ers in this country, have received from your pen. May the Lord 
 strengthen you, bless and reward your labors of love, and long con- 
 tinue your life for the edification of the church, and the conversion 
 of souls. * * * * 
 
 Brother Sutton's visit to this country is hailed with joy, and will 
 be a great blessing to us. I am sorry, I am ashamed, that we, as 
 a people, have done so little for the spread of the gospel. I think 
 our inactivity has not originated from a want of love to the cause, 
 but from a lack of information. We have had many humble, devo- 
 ted, and useful ministers, yet we have had very few who have com- 
 bined deep piety with learning and talent sufficient to direct and 
 unite the energies of our denomination. Consequently our labors 
 and usefulness have been restricted to our own country. * * 
 Brother Sutton's letter, written in India, had almost the effect of 
 an electric shock upon us, and while it excited much inquiry for 
 facts, his timely visit has aroused a spirit that has gone forth among 
 our churches, that will never slumber, till we too shall see some 
 fruits of our labors among the poor degraded idolaters. * * * 
 
 "We feel very grateful to God, for the correspondence that has 
 commenced between the General Baptists and ourselves ; and we 
 pray that it may be for our mutual edification, and the advance- 
 ment of the dear Redeemer's kingdom. 
 
 Yours in the bonds of our holy religion, 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 After the close of the Conference, Mr. Marks returned to Do- 
 ver, and assisted in making preparations for the removal of the 
 printing office, which was soon effected. The latter part of Octo- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 325 
 
 ber, he went to Portland to box up and send to different places 
 several hundred copies of the " Narrative of the Orissa Mission," 
 just out of press, and forwarded from Boston. The volume con- 
 tained 432 pages, duodecimo. The following notice of the work 
 was given by the Boston Recorder. 
 
 " The Narrative of the Orissa Mission is a very handsome vol- 
 ume to begin with : and then it is published chiefly for the purpose 
 of exciting a missionary spirit among a large ■ denomination of 
 Christians in this country, who have hitherto stood quite aloof 
 from such efforts. It relates also to a mission at one of the chief 
 seats of idolatry In India, and is written by one who has long been 
 personally engaged in it. We have already made some extracts 
 from it, illustrative of heathen superstitions, and intend to use it 
 further for the same purpose. In its illusti'ations of the abomina- 
 tions of heathenism, it is more abundant than almost any missiona- 
 ry narrative with which we are acquainted." 
 
 Mr. Marks on his return to Dover, learned that Mr^ Beede was 
 ill in Boston, and that his presence was necessary in the manage- 
 ment of his business. He hastened to the bed-side of his sick 
 friend, found him alone and suffering the most excruciating pain, 
 yet perfectly resigned. Mr. Beede said to him, "I have been anx- 
 ious to live, for as my youth was wasted in sin, I have desired to 
 redeem the time, and yet try to do a little good in the world. But 
 now there is little remaining to make life desirable. For years my 
 health has been such that I have ei\joyed little temporal com- 
 fort. Nearly all my labors have been performed in the most ex- 
 cruciating pain that human nature can endure. A compHcation of 
 diseases is fastened on my system, so that should I recover from my 
 present illness, there is every prospect that my future life will be a 
 continued scene of distress." In a few days, Mr. Beede recovered 
 his usual state of health. 
 
 About the middle of Nov., Mr. Marks met the Publishing Com- 
 mittee in Dover, and with them commenced the work of revising 
 and abridging the " Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will Baptists." 
 The latter part of November and first of December, he spent la- 
 boring in a I'evival in Strafford, and often had solemn and power- 
 ful seasons. 
 
 The banks had now refused to discount, and a severe pressure 
 in commercial affairs began to excite painful apprehensions that 
 a trying crisis was at hand. Payments came in slowly while heavy 
 debts would soon make their demands. Mr. Marks' health was 
 extremely poor, still, that he might be prepared to meet the exi- 
 gency, he thought it duty to make a tour through the churches in 
 the eastern part of New Hampshire and in Maine, preaching 
 28 
 
326 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 among them and collecting bills due for the Morning Star and for 
 books. Accordingly he sent appointments to about thirty church- 
 es, including attendance at the New Durham quarterly meeting in 
 Lebanon and the Anson quarterly meeting in Waterville, Me. 
 which would occupy him till the 12th of February. He commenced 
 his tour January 3, 1834. Some of his meetings were seasons of 
 great solemnity and power. Several were awakened, some of 
 whom never rested till they submitted to Christ. About the 25th 
 of January, a very deep snow fell, accompanied by a heavy wind, 
 wliich so filled the roads with drifts, as to render the travelling ex- 
 tremely difficult and fatiguing. Mr. Marks' health again began to 
 decline ; but he continued travelling till he met his twentieth ap- 
 pointment in Wilton, the 5th of February. After preaching in the 
 evening, he went to the house of Col. C. Morse, the brother who 
 so liberally received the Fifth General Conference in 1831. In a 
 few moments, he was seized with great distress, and was immedi- 
 ately confined to his bed with bilious fever. As he had ever been 
 punctual in his business engagements, never suffering a note to run 
 out, he at first felt much anxiety. Five hundred dollars would 
 soon be due in Boston. He had succeeded in collecting the amount, 
 but could not forward it, as it was in small bills, and he was at some 
 distance from any bank. But rather than fail of meeting his en- 
 gagement, he sent the money to one of the Publishing Committee, 
 with instructions to hire a man to carry it to Boston, which was 
 accordingly done. His sickness raged with great violence, inso- 
 much that he was deprived of his reason, and for a few days, little 
 hopes were entertained of his recovery. Every care and atten- 
 tion were freely bestowed by the hospitable family where he was 
 confined, and by the Christian friends in the vicinity. A skillful 
 physician also renderd his services gratuitously. In a few days, 
 his symptoms changed, and he improved rapidly. 
 
 As the snow was fast wasting, as soon as he could sit up a 
 part of the day, he commenced his return to Dover, where he ar- 
 rived about the 24th of February, somewhat invigorated. His 
 dyspeptic difficulties being very severe, he now commenced house- 
 keeping, in order that he might pursue such a course of dieting and 
 regimen as best suited him. From the 25th of February to the 
 4th of March, he was able to meet the Publishing Committee, and 
 labor with them in revising the " Treatise on the Faith of the Free- 
 will Baptists," when Mr. Beede was taken ill, and the work was 
 adjourned. 
 
 Mr. Beede continued to grow worse ; soon his case became criti- 
 cal, and in a few days his friends despaired of his recovery. Mr. 
 Marks spent all the time his strength would permit by the bed- 
 side of his suffering friend. As he saw the uplifted blow about to 
 
DAVID MARKS. 327 
 
 sever him from one so deservedly dear, his anguish was unutterable. 
 Mr. Beede's sufferings were excruciating, but he was all patience, 
 humility, and resignation : and when his distress permitted, he was 
 much engaged in supplications to God. Wednesday, March 26th, 
 he said : " I am wasting away, but I have taken more comfort on 
 this bed of affliction, in being resigned to the will of my Heavenly 
 Father, than all this world could afford. The prayers of his dear 
 children have given me inexpressible satisfaction. They have of- 
 ten brought me a cluster of grapes that showed me the pastures 
 where they had been feeding. My thoughts are absorbed in the 
 contemplation of the things of another world, and my heart is filled 
 with inexpressible desires for the happiness of my fellow creatures." 
 He expressed the most anxious interest for the prosperity of pure 
 religion, scriptural doctrine, and practical holiness, among Free- 
 will Baptists. On the evening of this day, he called Mr. Marks 
 to his bed-side, and, leaning on his bosom, asked him to settle his 
 temporal affairs, then casting on him a look of inexpressible affec- 
 tion, said : " You and I have labored much for which we shall re- 
 ceive no reward — but a crown — yes, a crown. I have never dar- 
 ed to tell you how much I have loved you. O that I had sought the 
 Lord as young as you did. I have had nothing but my shattered fac- 
 ulties to devote to the service of God." The following morning the 
 symptoms of approaching death were visible. He called Mr. 
 Marks and said he wished to talk with him ; he sat by him two 
 hours, but such were his distress and weakness that he could no 
 longer converse. At length, he looked upon his weeping wife, and 
 with much effort said to her, " Don't hinder me. Let me go to 
 perfect happiness, the Lord is ready to receive me." She replied : 
 " You may go — we will give you up, and detain you no longer." 
 About one o'clock, he said in much apparent bodily suffering: 
 " Where shall I go ?" His companion replied, " You will go and 
 be with Jesus." His countenance lighted with a smile, and he 
 said, " Yes — I may go and be with Jesus." At two o'clock, P. M. 
 she asked him if Jesus was precious. He answered, " Yes," and 
 said slowly, " I feel — Jesus — to be — gracious to me — Come ! — 
 Come! — Come !" His dying agonies were very severe. For hours his 
 whole frame shook with a convulsive tremor, he w^as continually 
 struggling and tossing from one side of the bed to the other, and 
 all present seemed anxious for the termination of his sufferings. 
 Several prayers were offered that he might have a speedy release. 
 He continued thus, till fifteen minutes past eleven o'clock at night, 
 when suddenly his strength failed, his glazed eyes rolled swiftly in 
 their sockets, then became fixed wide open, his breath was short 
 and quick, and fifteen minutes before twelve, his spirit took its 
 
628 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 flight. This was the first death of an adult person Mr. Marks had 
 ever witnessed, and it almost overcame him. 
 
 At this period he wrote thus in his journal : 
 
 " Saturday, March 29,1 felt very thankful to my Heavenly Father 
 that my dear brother Beede had got through his sufferings and ex- 
 treme distress, though language can scarcely tell the gratitude we 
 should have felt, had it pleased the Lord to continue his life to us. 
 His corpse is the most smiling and beautiful I ever saw. It was 
 affecting to see the poor widow cleave to the room where it lies. 
 The sun shone with clearness, and the day was beautiful ; but O, I 
 felt bereaved. The hand of affliction was heavy upon me. Sam- 
 uel was very dear to me. O, he was one of the most valuable 
 friends I had on earth ; most valuable, because his discourse was 
 most free from flatteiy, most faithful in telling me my faults, show- 
 ing me my prejudices, and the fallacy of my reasonings for favor- 
 ite sentiments. But he is gone ! gone ! This morning I went 
 with two brethren to the grave-yard to select a resting place for 
 his remains. As I passed the places where I had associated with 
 him, every thing seemed to remind me of my loss. Indeed, my 
 affliction pressed so heavily upon me, that I was under the necessi- 
 ty of turning away my thoughts, and compelling them to other 
 subjects, to keep from sinking under my burden. 
 
 Sabbath, March 30, I preached in Dover with much freedom 
 from Eccl. 2:22, 23. " For what hath a man of all his labor," &c. 
 Monday morning, a post mortem examination of the body of my 
 friend showed that there was much disease of long standing. His 
 liver was a mass of ulcers. His physician said nothing but his 
 extreme temperance had enabled him to live so long. At nine 
 o'clock, A. M., after a prayer, his body was removed on a hearse to 
 the meeting house about a mile distant, which was crowded to over- 
 flowing. It was my mournful lot to preach. I spoke from Rom. 
 8:22, 23. " For we know that the whole creation groaneth and 
 travaileth in pain together until now : And not only they, but 
 ourselves also, which have tJie first fruits of the Spirit, even we 
 ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, 
 the redemption of our body." This text was repeatedly suggested 
 to my mind, while witnessing the dying agonies of my dear broth- 
 er. The division was as follows. 1. The doctrine of the text. 
 2. Its application to the life and death of our brother. In the 
 doctrinal part, I attempted to show that there were universal pangs 
 endured through all nature, animate and inanimate, in consequence 
 of sin — that the redemption provided by the gospel does not save 
 the bodies of Christians from the pains, infirmities, and mortality, 
 endured by others — that the adoption or resurrection of the body 
 is the support of the righteous amidst the groans and afilictions of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 829 
 
 this state. Great solemnity pervaded the assembly ; many ministers 
 attended, and a large procession followed the corpse to the grave." 
 Mr. Marks wrote through the Morning Star (which was clad in 
 mourning) the following notice of Mr. Beede's death. 
 
 " ^ How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past find- 
 ing out* Romans 11:33. 
 Dear Brethren, 
 
 The hand of the Lord hath touched us, and it has become 
 our painful duty to announce the sad tidings that our dear brother, 
 Samuel Beede, has closed forever his labors on earth. * * 
 * * * Language cannot describe the bitterness of our 
 grief at this visitation. Though we feel to submit without a mur- 
 muring thought, and to kiss the rod that struck the blow, yet our af- 
 fliction seems to be greater than we can bear. If we met with 
 difficulties in the important trust committed to us by the Gen- 
 eral Conference in relation to your Book Concern, his counsel was 
 as a light in our path. Wherever he was called to act, if breth- 
 ren had different views, and were tenacious of pursuing opposite 
 measures, he scarcely ever failed to effect a reconciliation. But, 
 alas ! he is gone from us never to return. This is not the first 
 time in which the hopes of the church have been taken away as 
 with a stroke. Yet, in similar instances, God has effected much 
 more for his kingdom by the deaths of his eminent servants, than 
 could have been accomplished by the continuance of their lives. 
 Though the deaths of Harriet Newell and Henry Obookiah al- 
 most blasted the hopes of the friends of missions, and led them ta 
 say with Jacob, * All these things are against us,' yet these very 
 circumstances kindled a missionary flame that has accomplished 
 more for the conversion of the world than could have been effect- 
 ed by several long lives of arduous toil. The Lord is able to over- 
 rule the brief labors and early death of our brother in a similar 
 manner." 
 
 Journal. " Tuesday, April 1, w^as a solemn day spent in set- 
 tling the affairs of my departed friend, in compliance with his dy- 
 ing request. The remainder of the week was occupied in writing 
 for the Morning Star and the Treatise. Sabbath, April 6, I 
 preached in Portsmouth and felt much of the power of God. Af- 
 ter the close of one of the meetings, I baptized three. There had 
 been a great revival since I preached here in January last. Sev- 
 eral of the converts dated their awakening at that meeting, and I 
 was informed that it was the commencement of the reviv^. Bless- 
 ed be the Lord for all his goodness. 
 
 The little church in Portsmouth are very anxious I should 
 preach with them for a season. Perhaps it is duty, especially as 
 28* . 
 
S30 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 I am unable to travel. They are few, only thirteen or fourteen 
 members, very unpopular, no meeting house, and, what is most dis- 
 couraging, one of their principal men is a distiller of ardent spir- 
 its. Notwitlistanding he knows my views, he seems very friendly, 
 expresses great anxiety that I should come to Portsmouth, says he is 
 willing I should preach as much as I please in favor of the tem- 
 perance cause, and that if I will give an appointment for a tem- 
 perance lecture, he will attend. This church has recently joined 
 the denomination, and was received on condition that they would 
 exercise gospel discipline in the case of this distiller. 
 
 April 7, I returned to Dover, and till Wednesday, April 17, was 
 mostly engaged with the Publishing Committee in preparing the 
 Treatise. AVhen completed, as we signed our names, we had a 
 solemn, weeping season. One of our number was gone, and his 
 absence reminded us, that soon we too shall finish our work. Thurs- 
 day, April 18, 1 preached in a protracted meeting in Dover. This 
 meeting continued eleven days, and about fifty professed to be 
 converted. Having been appointed an assistant editor of the 
 Morning Star, I was much engaged until May 23, in writing for 
 the Star and in labors for the Book Concern. In this time I 
 preached in Dover, New Market, Barrington, Strafford, and Ports- 
 mouth. In the latter place, on Sabbath, May 4, I was present at 
 a very interesting baptismal scene. At half past 8 o'clock, A. M., 
 four thousand people assembled at the water to witness the immer- 
 sion of thirty-six believers, about to be received into three differ- 
 ent donominations, the Calvinistic Baptist, Methodist and 
 Baptist. After singing and prayer, the three officiating ministers, 
 arm in arm, walked into the water together ; afterwards they led 
 in their candidates, and baptized each in his turn ; the first thirteen, 
 the second twelve, and the third eleven. The solemnity and re- 
 markable order that were visible in the surrounding multitude, the 
 union of Christians, the unruffled water, the serenity of the sky^ 
 and the universal quiet of nature, conspired to render the scene in- 
 expressibly impressive and delightful. 
 
 May 29. We removed to Portsmouth. May Grod give wis- 
 dom and success. I have adopted some rules in relation to diet 
 and regimen, with the hope that, through the blessing of God, they 
 will be the means of improving my shattered health." 
 
 The rules to which Mr. Marks referred were written with ex- 
 press reference to rest and quiet. But the truth was, he knew not 
 how to rest in a world like this, where he saw so much to be done. 
 Labor and activity were his element, and such was the all consum- 
 ing ardor of his soul, that whatever were his circumstances, there 
 seemed a pressure upon his spirit, which constantly moved his 
 fceart, his lips, his pen, his hands, and kept him abounding in the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 331 
 
 work of the Lord. In a short time after his settlement in Ports- 
 mouth, he seemed to have as much to occupy his energies, as at 
 any former period, so that he could allow himself only from fom' 
 to six hours sleep in twenty-four. If he awoke in the night and 
 felt wakeful, he would immediately arise, and study or write, till he 
 felt inclined to sleep. He resumed his course of careful theologi- 
 cal reading which he commenced sometime previous, and continu- 
 ed to discharge his duties as an assistant editor and as Agent for 
 the Book Concern. Three thousand copies of " True Happiness," 
 by J. G. Pike, had been issued by the establishment, and about this 
 time, five thousand copies of the "Treatise on theFaith of the Free-will 
 Baptists." He entered with his accustomed zeal upon his labors as pas- 
 tor. One of his first efforts was a temperance lecture, in which he was 
 very pointed in his rebukes of the unholy traffic, and concluded by 
 exhorting those who thought there was no other way to procure a 
 livelihood, to die martyrs to right principles, and go and receive a 
 martyr's crown. He next set about making religious visits, and 
 gathering a Sabbath school, of which he was superintendent. 
 
 The following was found recorded in one of his private papers : 
 " I resolve to visit and pray with at least four families every day, 
 as long as I live in the town, and to aim at visiting and praying with 
 every family, and conversing with every person in the town. O 
 Lord, give me wisdom, and aid me in these my efforts to save souls." 
 He preached four sermons weekly to the little church, and attend- 
 ed two prayer meetings : he also accepted frequent calls to attend 
 meetings in towns in the vicinity of Portsmouth. 
 
 In the early part of June, he labored three days at a protracted 
 meeting in Hampton, which was attended with a prospect of much 
 good. June 14 and 15, he attended the New Hampshire yearly 
 meeting in New Hampton. On the Sabbath, the congi-egation was 
 so large that they were obliged to convene in a grove. Several 
 sermons were preached. Mr. Marks spoke from Genesis 3:3, 
 " Neither shall ye touch it lest ye die," and was greatly favored in 
 speaking. Some came forward for prayer, and it was thought ex- 
 pedient, in view of the prospect, to protract the meeting another 
 day. On Monday, as an invitation was given for those to come 
 forward, that desired prayer, a young gentleman arose, trembling- 
 and weeping, and called on liis youthful friends and acquaintance 
 to seek the Lord with him, and prepare for heaven. The effect 
 was thrilling. A large number presented themselves for prayer, 
 and some, before they left, found peace in believing. 
 
 The missionary enterprise had gained a deep hold upon his 
 heart. Perhaps his views and feelings on this subject, as well as 
 his manner of expressing them, cannot be better portrayed than in 
 the following extracts fix)m an article written by him and publish- 
 
332 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 ed in the Star of July 9. Mr. Sutton was then hourly expected 
 from England. * * * * « i^^ would say to our 
 brethren — whom the Lord has placed as'ste wards over Ms gold and 
 silver — act in the discharge of your trust, in that way that you 
 can review it with satisfaction in a dying hour, and as the Judge 
 of all the earth will approve when you are put on trial at the judg- 
 ment day. * * * -yy^ qj.q calling on you to dis- 
 charge your duty — not to give to Christ as though it were a chati- 
 ty. If any have so misunderstood or misinterpreted the Scrip- 
 tures, as to consider the subject in this light, we would address to 
 them the language of a minister in Boston : * What, Christ a 
 child of charity, coming around and begging of you ? Christ, lord 
 of this world, whose stewards ye are ? What if the clerks in this 
 city, should take it into their minds, that all the property they had 
 in their care was their own, and should get together and propose 
 to give a little charity to their employers and owners ? Will you 
 treat Christ thus ?' Dear brethren, O let us awake, and no longer 
 live to ourselves, but to Him who died for us. * * * 
 ****** The loss of one soul is incal- 
 culable. What then the loss of five hundred millions that die 
 among the heathen every thirty years ! We are amazed and lost 
 in trying to compute the dreadful ruin! Its very greatness so 
 overwhelms us, that it is only by descending to particulars, that our 
 minds can receive any distinct impressions. Were all the popula- 
 tion of these United States to die this year, it would not include as 
 many souls as go in this period, in all the pollutions of idolatry, to 
 the eternal world. Who that is acquainted with the love of Christ, 
 can take this glance without crying with the prophet, ' O that my 
 head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might 
 weep day and night.' Then, with a deep sense of our dependence on 
 his arm in whom our strength lies, may our hearts devise and our 
 hands execute * liberal things P While God is preparing his peo- 
 ple to make an onset that shall cause the firmest pillars of satan's 
 empire to tremble, let us do all we can to hasten this mighty con- 
 summation, and scatter terror through the kingdom of darkness. The 
 Lord God of Hosts is our leader, and will certainly conduct to vic- 
 tory. A voice is calling to us from the four winds of heaven, say- 
 ing, ' Onward! Onward P We have talked, and written, and hesita- 
 ted, and wept long enough. The time has now come for action. 
 The first great direction to be given now, not only in this, but in 
 every good work, is. Do it ; and the second is, Do it ; and the third 
 is, Do it. Deeds are the arguments, by which the timid are made 
 bold, the feeble strong, and the doubting convinced — the heavy ar- 
 tillery, by which the walls of satan's empire are broken down, and 
 the enemy put to flight. These, then, are the arguments, and 
 
DAVID MARKS. 333 
 
 these are the weapons, by which, we hope in God, to be able to go 
 forward in this holy work. If any still doubt, we have no time to 
 stop and convince them. We see our fellow men smhing — sinking 
 on every side, into a bottomless abyss to rise no more. That they 
 may be saved, we choose to prove by our efforts to save them. If 
 Others prefer to stand still and do nothing, let them at least throw no 
 obstacles in the way of those who are trying to rescue from eter- 
 nal wo, our miserable fellow men. The widow's mite is worth 
 more in such a cause than millions of empty words and unsubstan- 
 tial good wishes. O that a new spirit of prayer among us may 
 now go up to Heaven, accompanied with strong crying and many 
 tears, that the Lord of the harvest will send forth laborers into the 
 whitened fields.'* 
 
 For several months, Mr. Marks had had his sympathies greatly 
 pained by his inability to answer favorably, the numerous requests 
 from different sections for laborers, addressed to him as Agent of 
 the printing establishment. These calls continued to grow more 
 numerous and importunate. In the early part of July, while he 
 ■and Mr. Burr were conversing on this subject, it was agreed that 
 '$ILy. Marks should write a notice in the Star, calling a meeting for 
 the formation of a Home Mission Society, to be held at Dover, N. 
 H. on Thursday, July 31, 1834, at 10 o'clock, A. M. Among oth- 
 er remarks appended to this notice, were the following : " Some of 
 our brethren, when asked what they will do for the Orissa mis- 
 sion, have plead that they thought there was need of doing some- 
 thing at home first. They say, ' We have many heathen in our 
 own country.' Such brethren will now have an opportunity to 
 show their faith by their works ; and it is confidently expected that 
 all who have excused themselves on this ground, excepting those 
 whose covetousness has driven them to this subterfuge, will now 
 come forward, and lend their aid in converting the heathen of our 
 land. It cannot be denied that there is great need of gospel labor 
 in our own country. We have long heard the cry for help." 
 
 At the time appointed, the Society was organized with the usual 
 officers, and fifty directors. A season of most intense interest, 
 amounting almost to enthusiasm, was enjoyed. The terms for life 
 membership were, fifteen dollars for males, and ten dollars for fe- 
 males. Ten brethren and four sisters became life members imme- 
 diately. The office of Corresponding Secretary was assigned to 
 Mr. Marks, and as such, he was directed " to write to every officer 
 and director, furnish them with a copy of the Constitution, and the 
 most important doings of the Executive Committee, inform them of 
 the duties of the office to which they had been respectively chosen, 
 lay before them the importance of their united exertions in the mis- 
 sionary cause, and request an answer whether they will accept 
 
^M MEMOIRS OF 
 
 their appointment." A missionary was engaged immediately to go 
 to Ohio. 
 
 The church in Portsmouth having labored under great disadvan- 
 tages for want of a meeting house, had bought the south parish 
 church. It was built in old style, and would seat between two and 
 three thousand people. Mr. Marks again made a few entries in 
 his journal : 
 
 " Sabbath, August 24, we held our first meeting in the meeting 
 house. I hope yet to witness in it rich displays of God's mercy. 
 Monday, I attended a meeting in Rye, four miles from Portsmouth, 
 where I had engaged to preach once in two weeks on a week day 
 evening. As the people were going out, a little girl came up to 
 me and said, 'Sir, I am a great sinner; will you pray for me?' 
 She kneeled, and weeping, prayed, * Lord, I am a great sinner. 
 O, do forgive me and have mercy on me.' Another little girl came 
 forward also, and kneeled, and prayed for herself in a very solemn 
 manner. These were soon converted. Tuesday, I returned to 
 Portsmouth, and learned that five persons lay dead in town. I 
 met a hearse, followed by the parents and sisters of a young woman, 
 who had often attended my preaching, but neglected Christ until 
 consumption warned her to prepare to meet God. I followed to 
 the grave. Here I saw a solemn spectacle. The burying ground 
 was so filled with the dead, that the sexton, in digging the grave in 
 a spot where there was no monumental stone, had thrown out the 
 bones of three dead bodies. During the remainder of August, I 
 was busily engaged, early and late, in writing, studying, visiting 
 from house to house, and attending meetings almost daily. In 
 some of these exercises, my soul was often greatly blessed, and I 
 felt the witness that my labor was not in vain. 
 
 Monday, Sept. 1, 1 preached by request in'Newburyport, Mass. 
 I had long desired to visit the spot where rest in glorious hope the 
 mortal remains of George Whitefield. It had ever been a source of 
 sweet satisfaction to me that Randall, the founder of the Free-will 
 Baptist denomination, was one of Whitefield's converts — one whom 
 he slew at his death. Tuesday, I visited his tomb, in company 
 with several others. It was under the pulpit of a Congregational- 
 ist meeting house, built in 1756. On entering the house, we saw, 
 at the right side of the pulpit, a splendid monument, the cost of 
 which, we were informed, was SI 400. The pedestal is made of 
 soap stone, and has three steps ascent on every side. The monu- 
 ment is eight feet high, three feet seven inches square, is of varie- 
 gated white marble, most exquisitely polished, and is bordered on 
 the top, bottom, and corners, with variegated black marble. On one 
 side is the following inscription, in carved letters, inlaid with gold. 
 
 " This cenotaph is erected with the most affectionate veneration 
 
DAVID MARKS. 835 
 
 to the memory of the Rev. George Whitefield, born at Glouces- 
 ter, Eng., Dec. 16, 1714, educated at Oxford University, ordained 
 1736. In a ministry of 34 years, he crossed the Atlantic thirteen 
 times, and preached more than 18,000 sermons. As a soldier of 
 the cross, humble, devout, ardent, he put on the whole armor of 
 God, preferring the honor of Christ to his own interest, repose, 
 reputation, or life. As a Christian orator, his deep piety, disinter- 
 ested zeal, vivid imagination, gave unexampled energy to his look, 
 action, and utterance. Bold, fervent, pungent, and popular in his 
 eloquence, no other uninspired man ever preached to so large assem- 
 blies, or enforced the simple truths of the gospel by motives so per- 
 suasive or awful, and with an influence so powerful on the hearts 
 of his hearers. He died of asthma, Sept. 30, 1770, suddenly ex- 
 changing his life of unparalleled labors for his eternal life." 
 
 Immediately in front of the pulpit, is a plain white marble, bear- 
 ing the following inscription : " Under this pulpit are deposited 
 the remains of the Rev. Geo. Whitefield, and the Rev. Jonathan 
 Parsons, the first pastor of this church, who died July 19, 1776. 
 Also of the Rev. Joseph Prince, who died 1791." The sexton con- 
 ducted us to the vault under the pulpit. He unlocked it, and I en- 
 tered with a lighted candle. Here were three coffins side by side. 
 On the middle one was the name of Whitefield. I opened it — the 
 coffin was about one third full of black earth, out of which project- 
 ed a few bones. The skull bone was detached from the rest, and 
 was turned over. Here I sat a few minutes, and while gazing at 
 the sleeping dust, the most thrilling reflections forced themselves 
 upon my mind. Ah ! thought I, is it possible that I am standing 
 by the relics of that man of God, who felt so much for sinners — 
 who so often poured forth floods of tears over weeping thousands ? 
 Is this that dust which was once animated with life, and which en- 
 dured such unparalleled labors and fatigue, to warn the wicked to 
 flee from the wrath to come ? Is such the end of all the glory of 
 earth ? Must all the great, the honorable, the strong, the beauti- 
 ful, and the gay, soon come to this ? It was but yesterday, as it 
 were, that Whitefield died, and now what a contrast between that 
 splendid monument and his remains. O, how emphatically true, 
 that '■ All flesh is as grass and all the glory of man as the flower 
 of grass ;' yet, alas ! how little the multitude think of it or lay it 
 to heart. * O that men were wise, that they understood this, that 
 they would consider their latter end.' 
 
 September 2, I returned to Portsmouth, and for the seven days 
 following, attended to my usual duties. Sept. 9, I met a Conven- 
 tion at the Great Falls, and assisted in organizing the Rockingham 
 quarterly meeting, formed from eight churches of the New Durham 
 quarterly meeting. Wednesday, Sept. 10, I preached at the open- 
 
^3^ MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ing of worship, with much freedom, from the text, * Ye are bought 
 with a price.' Returning to Portsmouth, I continued my labors 
 in that and adjacent towns till Sept. 23. I then attended the 
 Maine Western yearly meeting, also the annual meeting of the 
 Foreign Mission Society in Parsonsfield, Me. and was appointed 
 one of the Executive Committee. Saturday, Sept. 27, I went to 
 N. Market, where I had an appointment, in exchange with brother 
 Cilley. When within a mile of the village, I heard a woman cry- 
 ing, ' Lord, have mercy !' On entering the house, I found her 
 husband apparently dying with consumption. Yet, alas ! he was 
 unprepared. Sabbath, I preached three sermons, spoke an hour 
 to the Bible class-, attended a prayer meeting, and visited and pray- 
 ed with five sick persons. In the evening meeting, eight kneeled 
 for prayer, and most of them prayed for themselves. Three of the 
 number obtained a very joyful hope, and two others found some re- 
 lief. Blessed be God for the mercies and strength he has given 
 me this day. Monday I preached in Newburyport, the day fol- 
 lowing went to Deerfield, and labored in a protracted meeting till 
 Thursday, Oct. 2. On the second day of the meeting, fifty or six- 
 ty came forward and kneeled for prayer, and several were convert- 
 ed. Friday, Oct. 3, I wrote fifteen hours, and my companion six- 
 teen, to get ready to meet the Publishing Committee. Next day 
 we returned to Portsmouth." 
 
 After this period, Mr. Marks seldom found time to make any en- 
 tries in his journal; and when he did, they were generally very 
 brief. He labored as usual in Portsmouth till October 22, when 
 he took an agency for raising something toward aiding the church 
 in paying for their meeting house, and notified between twen- 
 ty and thirty appointments in New, Hampshire and Maine. 
 The meeting of these appointments, and the duties connected with 
 them, occupied his time till November 14, when he returned to 
 Portsmouth, and labored the remainder of the month. During this 
 journey, he attended a meeting of the Foreign Mission Executive 
 Board in North Parsonsfield, also spent three days at a general 
 conference of Free-will Baptist ministers in Readfield, Me., called 
 for the purpose of " promoting the union, piety, and usefulness of 
 the ministry." Mr. Marks proposed the following subjects for dis- 
 cussion. " How far is it essential that the ministers of the same 
 denomination be united in doctrine and practice ? Does the gos- 
 pel warrant any regular system for the support of ministers ? Is 
 the establishment of Home and Foreign Missions scriptural ? Is 
 the establishment of our Book Concern calculated to promote the 
 gospel ?" The discussions on these and other subjects were ani- 
 mated, and the reports were made with much unanimity. He met 
 with Mr. Eli Noyes in Jefferson, and proposed to him to go as a 
 
DAVID 3W[AIIK«. SSY 
 
 missionary to India. He persuaded him to relinquish teaching, of- 
 fer himself to the Mission Board, and spend the winter in study at 
 Parsonsfield. 
 
 December 2 and 3, Mr. Marks attended the second session of 
 the Rockingham quarterly meeting at New Market. It was a time 
 of great harmony, and the prospect for a revival was such that the 
 meeting was protracted. About forty came forward for prayer, and 
 some were converted. Mr. Marks' dyspeptic difficulties still con- 
 tinued to be very severe. His stomach rejected almost every 
 kind of food, while he was afflicted with the most gnawing hunger* 
 He often said he knew all the sufferings of death by starvation. He 
 now resolved on a more rigid course of dieting than he had as yet 
 pursued, allowing himself but twelve ounces of food daily, and 
 weighing it with much exactness. Under this treatment, his flesh 
 wasted, while his stomach gained strength, and his general health 
 improved. He labored this month as usual in Portsmouth, and al- 
 so preached in Newburyport, Kittery, North Hampton, and Rye, 
 The church in Portsmouth had been gradually increasing in num- 
 bers and interest, and occasionally some had been converted. De- 
 cember 30, he went to Boston and attended a protracted meeting 
 four days with a church enjoying the labors of Elder Jonathan 
 "Woodman. This church had not joined any denomination, but hav- 
 ing expressed a wish to become connected with the Free-will Bap* 
 lists, and applied to them for aid, the Home Mission Society had 
 sent brother Woodman to preach with them for a season. Some 
 twelve or twenty were about to be added to the church. 
 
 So great and important changes had taken place in the Free- 
 will Baptist denomination in the brief period of three years, that 
 Mr. Marks was often led to exclaim, " What hath God wrought ?" 
 The interest awakened in the benevolent enterprises of the day^ 
 "was closely knitting the hearts of ministers and members. The 
 disheartened were encouraged and schisms had disappeared. About 
 this time, he wrote in the Star as follows : " As far as we are able 
 to learn, unparalleled unity of efforts is consolidating our ranks on 
 every hand. Never was there in our denomination, a brighter 
 prospect of usefulness than is now presented. Doors are opened 
 on every hand, and there is scarcely a city, village, or town of im- 
 portance, from the Atlantic to the Rocky mountains, where there is 
 not either a call or an open door for us to labor in the vineyard of 
 the Lord. If we had a sufficient number of devoted ministers, 
 thousands of churches might be raised up and millions of souls 
 soon be converted. Who will offer the prayer of faith for an in- 
 crease of faithful laborers ?" 
 
 The Morning Star had at this time entered the lists in the great 
 moral contest with slavery, — and the facts that were daily coming 
 
338 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 before the public, exemplifying its horrid abominations, very deep- 
 ly affected the subject of these memoirs. In his editorial articles, 
 he was very pointed against this legalized system of wickedness, 
 as were also some of the other writers. Subscribers in the Free- 
 will Baptist churches in the Carolinas, were angry, wrote him spir- 
 ited letters, and discontinued in large numbers. Many others 
 were also dissatisfied, and a dark cloud threatened the prospect of 
 the future. But he knew not how to compromise truth with error, 
 and he resolved that if his influence could avail, the Star should 
 maintain its high and holy stand, though the violence of the gath- 
 ering storm should demolish the establishment, for whose prosperi- 
 ty he had so assiduously labored, and finally involve himself in 
 bankruptcy. 
 
 January, 1835, Mr. Marks spent mostly in Portsmouth, saw 
 some accessions to the church, and signs of a revival. He also at- 
 tended the New Durham quarterly meeting in Gilmanton, which 
 was followed by several conversions. In February, in addition to 
 his usual duties, he preached with the churches in South Berwick, 
 Dover, Loudon, and Canterbury. March 2 and 3, he attended the 
 third session of the Rockingham quarterly meeting, which was a 
 time of more than ordinary interest. The church in Boston, of 
 more than fifty members, was received, and strong resolutions were 
 passed against American slavery. Active measures were taken for 
 furthering the cause of missions, and for increasing the circulation 
 of the Morning Star. After his return to Portsmouth, he read 
 from his pulpit, several of Mr. C. G. Finney's " Revival Lectures," 
 which were first published in the New York Evangelist, and were 
 re-published in the Morning Star. These were read between the 
 afternoon and evening service on the Sabbath, and on week day 
 evenings. "While he was reading the remarks on tobacco in the 
 13th lecture, one professor of religion immediately took his tobacco 
 from his mouth and threw it away, and at the close of the meeting, 
 another emptied his pockets of the filthy drug, saying, " I will nev- 
 er chew any more tobacco as long as I live." 
 
 March 13, Mr. Sutton visited Portsmouth, exhibited his idols, 
 and preached on the subject of missions with very great accep- 
 tance. The meeting house was crowded in every part, and many 
 went away who could not get in. It was thought that about three 
 thousand people were present. March 17, Mr. Marks met the 
 Foreign Mission Board in Parsonsfield, Me. It was agreed to 
 send Mr. Eli Noyes with Mr. Sutton, the ensuing fall, as a mis- 
 sionary to India. 
 
 The latter part of March, Mr. Marks was unusually feeble. His 
 rigid dieting had reduced his weight to one hundred and thirty- 
 seven pounds, having lost thirty-eight in the last four months. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 33$ 
 
 [Previous to his first attacks of sickness, he weighed two hundred 
 and thirty-five pounds.] He again relinquished his studies and 
 Siting, and made an effort to rest ; but as the power of motion 
 was still left hira, he endured the ordeal but a few days, and then 
 resumed his usual pursuits. The signs of a revival in his congre- 
 gation continued, and he concluded to hold a protracted meeting. 
 He had invited Mr. Sutton to his aid, who had expressed much 
 desire to attend such a meeting before he left America. He had 
 also secured the attendance of some other ministers a part of the 
 time. April 1, the meeting commenced, and continued eighteen 
 days. Congregations were large, solemn, and attentive, and the 
 Spirit of the Lord was poured upon them. The first that was con- 
 verted dated her awakening from the reading of one of Mr. Fin- 
 ney's lectures. Immediately, others presented themselves as anx- 
 ious inquirers for salvation, and soon several found peace in believ- 
 ing. The work went on with power. In about two weeks, thirty- 
 two had professed submission to Christ, and seventeen had been 
 baptized. Near the close of the meeting, Mr. Sutton's engage- 
 ments called him to Boston, but his heart was so much in the work, 
 that it was hard leaving : and before he could tear himself away, 
 he preached three discourses, intending each of them as his fare- 
 well to the people. On these occasions, the large meeting house 
 was crowded to overflowing. The work continued with considera- 
 ble interest after the meeting closed, and the church was increased 
 to about sixty members, notwithstanding several subjects of the re- 
 vival united with the churches where they had usually attended 
 worship. An interesting missionary concert was now sustained, 
 and the Sabbath school was flourishing. 
 
 The last of April, Mr. Marks visited Boston, and heard the cel- 
 ebrated British anti-slavery agent, George Thompson. His sub- 
 ject was the merits of the Colonization Society. Although he had 
 long since abandoned the idea of any hope for the slave from that 
 quarter, yet he had not until now supposed that it actually aided 
 slavery. He pronounced Mr. Thompson the most eloquent man 
 he ever heard. He said his appeals, at times, overpowered his 
 feelings to a degree that almost produced suffocation, and it was 
 often with difficulty that he could get power to breathe. On his 
 return to Portsmouth, as he called at the Post Office, his attention 
 was arrested by the appearance of a young man, whose exterior 
 was unusually gentlemanly and interesting. But while he was 
 admiring his very agreeable manners, an oath suddenly fell from 
 his lips. With deep emotions of grief, Mr. Marks fixed his eyes 
 upon him, and said kindly, " Friend, you ought not to swear." 
 The young man followed him to his carriage and inquired, " "NYhat 
 is that you said ?" " You ought not to swear," was the reply. 
 
340 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 " But," rejoined the young man, " I can prove to you from tlie 
 Bible that it is right to swear. It is written that every knee shall 
 bow, and every tongue shall swear." " But not profanely," said 
 Mr. Marks. " It is also written of some that they wrest the Scrip- 
 tures to their own destruction." Said the young man, " I don't 
 believe the doctrine you preach. I believe all will be well after 
 death. I am a Universalist," — ^then, in a moment, as if conscience- 
 stricken, he added, " Friend, you are right, and I am wrong : I 
 ought not to swear. But it is of no use to talk to me. I was not 
 always as I now am. Once I had serious impressions. In Boston 
 and Poplin, I was respected and happy. But now I am miserable. 
 I know there is no mercy for me. If there is a hell I know I shall 
 go to it. I try to think there is none ; but I am an unhappy man. 
 When it is morning, I long for the night, and when it is night, I 
 long for the morning." Mr. Marks tried to encourage him to turn 
 from his sins and look to Christ. Said the young man, " It is of 
 no use, you need not talk to me. I know I shall go to hell, and I 
 will go ! I Could temporal circumstances make me happy, I should 
 be a happy man. I have enough of this world's wealth, and my 
 friends try to make me happy ; but I am a wretched man. I have 
 indulged in every pleasure, and have given unrestrained license to 
 my appetites and passions. But, O ! I am miserable. I long to 
 die and know the worst of my case." Mr. Marks still urged him 
 to reform, and cast himself upon the mercy of God, and extorted 
 from him a partial promise to call and see him. But he never saw 
 him afterwards, nor was he able to learn his subsequent history. 
 
 May 4, Mr. Marks was present at the marriage of Mr. Eli Noyes 
 to Miss Clementina Pierce, of Portsmouth. Miss Pierce was the 
 only surviving daughter of her widowed mother, who had followed 
 seven daughters to the grave. It was a severe and painful strug- 
 gle for the mother to lay her idol upon the missionary altar ; but, 
 at last, she made the sacrifice with much cheerfulness. The mar- 
 riage solemnities, under these circumstances, were very solemn, 
 and many wept. During this month, Mr. Marks was engaged early 
 and late, with the care of his increasing flock, preaching to the 
 sailors, and the inmates of the Poor Asylum, and in discharging 
 the duties of his various offices. Among the latter, was the outfit 
 of Mr. and Mrs. Noyes for India. 
 
 About this time, he became much interested in the Oberlin Col- 
 legiate Institute, and often expressed a desire to spend a season 
 there. It had been in operation one year and a half, and Mr. C. 
 G. Finney had accepted an appointment in it, as Professor of The- 
 ology. May 27, he wrote in the Star a lengthy notice of this In- 
 stitution, embracing facts taken mostly from the New York Evan- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 341 
 
 gelist, and commended its patronage to the young men and women 
 of the Free-will Baptist denomination. 
 
 June 4, he attended the second anniversary of the New Hamp- 
 shire Anti-Slavery Society at Concord, and was exceedingly inter- 
 ested. Among the speakers were Henry B. Stanton, one of the 
 fifty students who had recently left Lane Seminary in Cincinnati 
 because the college faculty would not allow them to discuss the 
 slavery question, and Mr. Woodbury, brother of the Hon. Levi 
 AVoodbury, then Secretary of War, now one of the judges of the 
 Supreme Court of the United States. Mr. Marks briefly reported 
 their addresses in the Star. Among many interesting things said 
 by Mr. Woodbury, were the following : " They say to us, keep 
 still. We have kept still two centuries. I've tried to keep still, 
 but I can't keep still — ^I won't keep still — I won't, I won't. Two 
 or three years ago, I w^ent on a kind of patriotic excursion to visit 
 the tomb of Washington. A man guided me to the spot. He was 
 a man, Mx, President, not a thing, a man with a black face. His 
 head was whiter than any one's in this audience. I was not then 
 an abolitionist, nor even a colonizationist. I asked the man if he 
 were a slave. He said he was — was Washington's slave. But, 
 I said, I thought Washington liberated all his slaves. He re- 
 torted, ' I guess if he had, I should have known it. No, he only 
 liberated his household slaves. His field slaves descended with the 
 farm ; I w^as a field slave.' I inquired, have you any children ? 
 * I have had ten.' Ten — where are they? * I don't know. They 
 \vere taken to a southern market and sold, and in my weak old age, 
 I have no one to bring me even a cup of water.' While I gazed 
 on that poor old man, my vow w'ent up to heaven that I would be 
 an abolitionist." 
 
 In the early part of June, Mr. Marks left Portsmouth, accom- 
 panied by his companion, to attend the anniversary of the Home 
 Mission Society, and the New Hampshire yearly meeting, which 
 w^ere soon to be held in Lisbon in the north part of the state. We 
 soon fell in company with several brethren in the ministry, and en- 
 joyed the sweets of Christian intercourse the remainder of the jour- 
 ney. Nature had put on her most beautiful robe, and the enchant- 
 ing scenery, as we passed 'along, among the hills, vallies, and 
 streams, united to inspire the soul with emotions of holy delight. 
 We arrived in Lisbon, June 11, physically and mentally invigora- 
 ted by this delightful journey. 
 
 The Home Mission anniversary opened Friday morning at half- 
 past nine o'clock, A. M. Mr. Marks, as Corresponding Secretary, 
 reported that thirteen quarterly meetings had organized societies 
 auxiliary to the parent society. A circular had been published, 
 and sent to nearly every church, entreating them either to form so- 
 29* 
 
342 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 cieties or hold quarterly conferences. One missionary had been 
 sent to Ohio, whose labors had been blessed to the conversion of 
 several souls, missionaries had been sustained a few weeks in Bos- 
 ton, Newburyport, and Portland, and a part of the time, an agent 
 had been employed to travel. Many urgent calls had been sent to 
 the society for aid, among which was the following very pathetic 
 request from an association of General Baptists in Indiana. After 
 giving a painful description of their destitute state, they wrote, — 
 " From our near situation to New Harmony, the principles of Rob- 
 ert Owen have taken deep root in many minds, and we want a 
 preacher to combat them. O, send us one laborer. We ask but 
 one — we will be satisfied with one — we will try and support one. 
 Be assured that he who comes will find many here, whose hearts 
 will leap for joy at the presence of a faithful Free-will Baptist 
 preacher. Our home shall be his home, and our fire-sides and tables 
 shall render him the comforts we receive ourselves. Let us know 
 if you will comply with our request. We feel that we are the 
 same with you in principle, and our interest is in common with 
 yours, therefore we are the more bold in soliciting assistance." The 
 Corresponding Secretary in his report asked, " Is this a time for 
 the church of God to be idle, or the saints of the Most High to 
 slumber ? No ! No ! There is too much to be done for a single 
 Christian to be inactive. Ye soldiers of Jesus, " To your arms ! 
 To your arms ! Remember the crown is for those who fight." Sev- 
 eral resolutions were passed, accompanied by soul-stirring speeches. 
 Mr. Sutton, in speaking on a resolution representing North Amer- 
 ica as an inviting field for gospel labor, said, "This is true. I was 
 in Virginia a few weeks since, and had the privilege of preaching 
 to the slaves, and O, never shall I forget their anxious looks and 
 streaming eyes. They hung on every word, with their mouths 
 open, and seemed ready to catch all they heard. O, how I did 
 love to preach to them. * * I was much affected this morning 
 when hearing in your Corresponding Secretary's report the pathet- 
 ic entreaties for labor in Indiana. I almost wished I could be di- 
 vided into ten thousand pieces, and every piece should go and 
 preach the gospel. I would send one to Indiana, one to Virginia 
 among the poor slaves, others farther south, some to India, China, 
 &c. among the heathen." 
 
 After the close of the discussions, opportunity w^as given for any 
 to become members of the Society. Mr. Marks, to illustrate the 
 principle of missionary operations, said : " According to the 
 last report, there are three hundred members belonging to the 
 church in this town. Now let us suppose that Whitefield [an ad- 
 jacent town] contains one thousand inhabitants, among whom there 
 is not a minister nor a single Christian. Some of the brethren 
 
DAVID MARKS. 343 
 
 here begin to think and talk about the lamentable condition of the 
 people of Whitefield. They have no Sabbath, and all their children 
 are growing up without any religious instruction. One says, I tliink 
 the command to preach the gospel to every creature is binding on 
 the church, and some of us ought to go over to Whitefield, and 
 give the people religious instruction and pray with them. Says 
 another, I could for my part, spend one hour in a day to convert 
 the people in Whitefield, if, when I had labored nine hours in a 
 day, (which I must to support my family,) I was only there to 
 spend the tenth. All agree that they would be willing to do this ; 
 but as the distance to Whitefield is such, that they cannot all labor 
 personally to convert the people, one proposes the following plan. 
 That they shall choose one out of every ten members of the church 
 to go and spend his whole time in laboring to convert the people in 
 >\Tiitefield, and the remaining nine members shall each one go and 
 work their hour on the farm of the one that is absent. Now, would 
 this be giving every one an hour's work to the brother that has 
 gone to Whitefield ? Certainly not. It is merely an exchange of an 
 hour's work, to save you the expense and time of journeying to 
 Whitefield to do your duty. By this exchange the church might 
 support thirty missionaries in Whitefield, while without it they 
 would do just nothing at all. How much love would a member 
 show for these destitute people, should he say, " I'll have noth- 
 ing to do with your plan of exchange. When I feel it duty to go 
 to Whitefield, I will, and if God sends you, he will support you and 
 your family." Now this is just the case with our Home Mission So- 
 ciety. It is founded on the following propositions. 
 
 1. God has commanded that the gospel be preached to every 
 creature. 2. This command is not obligatory on merely a few indi- 
 viduals, but is directly or indirectly binding on every individual in 
 the whole church. 3. Every man has his own proper calling of 
 God — all men are not called to preach personally ; but while one 
 does this, others are called to uphold his hands by supporting him, 
 and in doing it, they do not give to the preacher, but only do them- 
 selves, hy exchange, what God has commanded them to do. Thus 
 we are called to be co-workers with God, and if every one is faith- 
 ful, according to the ability given of God, the crowns of glory, the 
 rewards of righteousness, will be distributed as freely in the great 
 judgment day, to those who have given of their substance with a 
 pure heart, as to those who have entered personally into the field. 
 And now. Christians, let me ask you before the Lord, can you not 
 spare one hour of the twenty-four to labor for the spread of the 
 gospel ? This, at ten cents per hour, would be nearly forty dollars 
 annually ; at half this price it would be nearly twenty dollars. Can 
 you not spare half an hour, or at least fifteen minutes per day ? 
 
244 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 Should every one devote only five minutes daily, to some employ- 
 ment for this purpose, it would amount to several dollars every 
 year, and who cannot do tliis ? What Christian will not ?" 
 
 Saturday morning, the yearly meeting of business was opened. 
 Mr. Marks presented a resolution for the discussion of the subject 
 of slavery, which was the first that was ever presented to the New 
 Hampshire yearly meeting. He spoke with much effect in its sup- 
 port, and was followed by others. Another resolution was intro- 
 duced, lamenting the condition of the slave in reference to his relig- 
 ious privileges, the discussion of which powerfully excited the sym- 
 pathies of the audience. Mr. Sutton, in speaking on this resolu- 
 tien, said : " I am glad to see your tears fall and your bosoms heave. 
 Time was when the glory of Africa would compare with that of the 
 most honored nations of the earth. She took the lead in the arts and 
 sciences. She had her splendid churches, her men of learning and 
 her martyrs. What has made the change ? Ah ! it was the Chris- 
 tian's cursed thirst for gold ! ! The slave ships went to Africa — 
 stole her sons and sold them to fill the Christian's purse !" 
 
 Dr. F. A. Cox, a delegate from the " London Baptist Union" in 
 England, to the Baptist Triennial Convention recently held in Rich- 
 mond, Va., also spoke on this resolution. This was the first if not 
 the only time, that he publicly rebuked slavery during his stay in 
 An^erica. He apologized for his silence, on the ground that he be- 
 lieved he could do more good in the anti-slavery cause, by exerting 
 his influence in a private way. Mr. Marks reported this discus- 
 sion for the Star ; it was subsequently copied into the Emancipa- 
 tor and sent to Virginia. The Petersburg Constellation in that 
 state, came out with a violent article against Mr. Sutton and Dr. 
 Cox, calling the latter a " snake in the grass." 
 
 Saturday afternoon and evening, interesting sermons were preach- 
 ed by Elders J. Buzzell and J. Woodman, and a few presented 
 themselves for prayer. Preparations had been made for conven- 
 ing the congregation on the Sabbath, in a beautiful grove, as an 
 overflowing attendance was anticipated, notice having been given 
 that Mr. Sutton would be present, and that Mr. E. Noyes would be 
 ordained as a missionary to India. Early in the morning, multitudes 
 were seen flocking to the " leafy temple," till, at the time the hour 
 for preaching arrived, it was judged that three thousand people 
 were present. Dr. Cox preached the ordination sermon from our 
 Savior's words : " I am the light of the world," after which the 
 solemn services of the ordination were performed. The serious, 
 universal, and unbroken attention of the audience, evinced their 
 deep interest. In the afternoon, Mr. Sutton preached on missions 
 with his accustomed ardor, after which, a request was made that 
 all present who would engage to pray for missions and contribute 
 
DAVID MARKS. 345 
 
 to their support would raise their hands. Many hundreds of 
 hands were instantly raised. Mr. Marks preached in the evening ; 
 about thirty-five went forward for prayer and several prayers were 
 offered in their behalf. Dr. Cox, speaking of this meeting in 
 his " Baptists in America," said, " The impassioned character of 
 the supplications was often astonishing for fervency and flow. 
 The whole atmosphere seemed infected with excitement. You 
 seemed to have got into a new element of existence. The whis- 
 pers or appeals to candidates in a subdued tone, were often solemn, 
 seasonable, and pointed." Thus closed one of the most interest- 
 ing and important sessions ever held by the New Hampshire year- 
 ly meeting. Mr. Marks, in subsequent days, often referred to this 
 season as one of the happiest of his life. Dr. Cox said to him, 
 that the sentiments of Free-will Baptists, as far as he had been 
 able to learn them, were more in unison with the sentiments of the 
 churches of the London Baptist Union, than were the Calvinistic 
 Baptists. In the work just alluded to, he remarks : " My inter- 
 course with the ministers and people of this denomination, convinc- 
 ed me of their zeal and union. I perceived also much of enlarg- 
 ed benevolence and individual generosity of feeling. Their senti- 
 ments towards each other were eminently fraternal. Whoever was 
 the preacher, he was equally cheered by every other. The puri- 
 tanical manner appears to be very generally retained ; and it is 
 combined with much of the primitive spirit. Their method is 
 often pointed, and commonly vehement. * * * ^g 
 
 a denomination, their views in some points, and their practices in 
 other respects, will, no doubt, be modified by time and experi- 
 ence." 
 
 Monday, June 15, Mr. Marks met with the Foreign Mission 
 Board, and it was decided to send out another missionary with IVIr. 
 Noyes. In the afternoon we set out on our return to Portsmouth, 
 in company with brethren Burr, Cilley, and Thurston, purposing 
 to visit the summit of Mt. Washington, (the highest peak of the 
 White Hills,) and pass through what is called the " Notch." Tues- 
 day morning, having procured horses and saddles, we proceeded, at 
 six o'clock, accompanied by a guide, to ascend Mt. Washington, the 
 highest elevation of which is 6,428 feet above the level of the sea. 
 After riding six miles, we were obliged to dismount, leave our 
 horses, and pursue the uneven tenor of our way, climbing over 
 masses of broken rocks, piled upon each other almost perpendicu- 
 larly. Snow of considerable depth lay in some places along our 
 pathway, clouds floated beneath us, and the cold began to affect us 
 quite unpleasantly. At length, with much toil and fatigue, after 
 climbing three miles, we gained the summit. A scene of surpass- 
 ing grandeur met our sight. In the far distance to the southeast. 
 
346 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 was the Atlantic ocean lying in the horizon like a cloud, one hun- 
 dred and twenty miles to the southwest lay Mt. Monadnoc, west 
 were the Green Mountains of Vermont, and northeast the Katah- 
 din mountains. Within the circle of our extended vision, were 
 scattered numerous villages, fields and forests. The Connecticut river, 
 with its tributaries, added not a little to the beauty of the scene. 
 After feasting our eyes a while, we partook of a repast brought by 
 our guide. We then had singing and prayer, and listened to a ser- 
 mon from Elder Thurston. His text was Mat. 14:8, 9. "The 
 devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth 
 him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them ; and 
 saith unto him, all these will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down, 
 and worship me." Our external circumstances were admirably 
 calculated to give force to the text. Soon after the sermon, we 
 commenced our descent, and arrived at the public house, at the 
 base of the mountain, at six o'clock, P. M., so much wearied that 
 rest was an indescribable luxury. Next morning we passed through 
 the " Notch," which is a defile through the White Hills, in some 
 places so narrow as to leave barely room for a road. The tower- 
 ing mountains, the overhanging cliffs, the narrow pass, the roaring 
 stream, are admirably fitted to impress the traveller with the deep- 
 est awe of that Being who " weighs the mountains in scales, and 
 the hills in a balance." 
 
 Saturday, June 19, we arrived in Portsmouth. The church con- 
 tinued to prosper, though passing through trials in consequence of 
 the exercise of church discipline in the case of the distiller. At 
 that time, the trafi^ic in ardent spirits was honorable in Portsmouth, 
 and no other church in town, except the Methodist, required their 
 members to abstain from it. The distiller perseveringly refused to 
 give up his deadly work, and all the necessary steps had been tak- 
 en preparatory to his exclusion. A dreadful occurrence seemed to 
 call loudly on the church for decisive action. Mr. Wilson of Kit- 
 tery, in a drunken fit, murdered his wife in a most brutal manner, 
 and it was reported, on credible authority, that he obtained the in- 
 toxicating draught from this Free-will Baptist distiller. The 
 church were ready for action, except on the ground of expediency. 
 They were poor, were still in debt for their house, and the distiller 
 was responsible for two hundred dollars of this debt, in such a 
 manner that he could make the church much trouble. Mr. Marks, 
 seeing the uTesolution of the leading members from this circum- 
 stance, went to Dover, hired the money from the bank, and paid 
 the two hundred dollars. The act of exclusion immediately fol- 
 lowed. For this carrying out of temperance and gospel principles, 
 one of the Portsmouth papers came out with a bitter article, and 
 both Mr. Marks and the church suffered much contempt and oblo- 
 
DAVID MAKES. 347 
 
 quy from the wicked, as well as from those who professed better 
 things. 
 
 Occasionally, for the benefit of sea air and relaxation, Mr. Marks 
 went out on short fishing excursions ; and in a few instances, call- 
 ed at the Isle of Shoals, and held meetings with the people. This 
 island is about nine miles from Portsmouth, and then contained 
 between one and two hundred inhabitants, mostly fishermen. They 
 had a house of worship, but no minister. July 30, he visited the 
 island, accompanied by Elders Woodman, Cilley and Noyes, with 
 sixty or seventy brethren from Portsmouth, New Market and Do- 
 ver. They continued there twenty-eight hours, and held six meet- 
 ings. Each of the ministers preached. The last exercise was 
 held on the rocks by the sea-side, where about two hundred were 
 assembled. Two related their rehgious experience, Mr. Marks 
 baptized them, and they were added to the Portsmouth church. 
 One of these was converted only ajbout three hours before she was 
 baptized. 
 
 August 11, Mr. Jeremiah Phillips, a student in Hamilton Sem- 
 inary, and a Free- Communion Baptist from Plainfield, N. Y., was 
 appointed by the Foreign Mission Board, to accompany brethren 
 Noyes and Sutton to India. He was subsequently married to Mrs. 
 Mary E. Beede, widow of Samuel Beede. The making the outfit 
 for their voyage, except the preparation of their state-room in the 
 ship, devolved on Mr. Marks. During this month he compiled the 
 Free-will Baptist Register for 1836. 
 
 Mr. Marks believing the Book Concern had acquired a perma- 
 nency that, with judicious management, would insure its success, de- 
 termined to resign his agency at the approaching General Confer- 
 ence, also his other responsibilities, return to New York, and seek 
 rest and retirement. He had become sensible that the continuance 
 of his life depended on some such change, and he despaired of find- 
 ing rest, if he remained in New England. Being quick with the 
 pen, and ready in drafting articles, a great amount of labor was 
 habitually imposed upon him in missionary, quarterly, and yearly 
 meetings, in addition to his other labors. His rigid dieting had 
 lessened his dyspeptic difficulties ; but his nervous system was 
 more severely affected than ever. At times, his mind seemed al- 
 most a wreck, so that any kind of mental labor would so affect him 
 that he could not tell where he was, or even his own name. In 
 view of his anticipated " departure from New England, one subject 
 pressed heavily upon his mind, the securing of a faithful pastor to 
 take charge of the Portsmouth church. They thought they were 
 too poor, with the debt for their house on their hands, to raise 
 much to sustain a minister. During the period Mr. Marks had la- 
 bored with them, (nearly a year and a half,) he had received a little 
 
84:8 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 more than one hundred dollars. The remainder of his expenses 
 he had borne himself, and had given besides fifty-eight dollars for 
 the expenses of the church. Ten dollars were for a Sabbath school 
 library, ten dollars towards warming the house, and thirty-eight 
 towards the meeting house. To encourage the church to sustain a 
 minister, he told them he would assist them, and persuaded them to 
 secure the labors of Elder James A. McKenzie of Rhode Island. 
 Subsequently, he gave twenty-five dollars toward his support. 
 
 About the 16tli of September, Mr. Marks went to Boston to 
 finish the arrangements for the voyage of our missionaries. They 
 were to sail in the ship Louvre, accompanied by seventeen other 
 missionaries, belonging to different denominations. Most of these 
 had been brought into the field through the untiring efforts of the 
 devoted Sutton, who, without regard to denominational distinctions, 
 had labored to stir up a missionary spirit among all Christians, 
 Sabbath evening, Sept. 20, the farewell services were attended in 
 Dr. Sharp's meeting house [Baptist] which was filled to overflow- 
 ing. The missionaries were seated together, while instructions and 
 addresses were given them. Some were to go to China, one to 
 Burmah, and several to Hindoostan. Mr. H. Malcolm, having 
 been appointed on a three years' tour to visit the Baptist mission* 
 ary stations, was going to sail with them. Both he and Mr. Sutton 
 addressed the audience in a very impressive manner. The follow- 
 ing particulars relating to their departure, are taken from an arti- 
 cle Mr. Marks wrote for the Star. 
 
 " Tuesday, Sept. 22. Before ten o'clock, A. M., Union wharf, 
 where lay the ship Louvre, was thronged by a multitude of sever- 
 al thousands, assembled to witness its departure. The counte- 
 nances of the missionaries were bright and joyous. After brother 
 Noyes had taken leave of his friends, he said, * The long wished 
 for moment has arrived, and I can say, ^ Welcome sweet day of 
 rest.' Taking brother Phillips by the hand, he said to him, * I 
 thank my Heavenly Father that he has given me a fellow laborer 
 to go with me to idolatrous India.* A short time since, I thought 
 I must go alone, and it was somewhat painful to me.' Sister Sut- 
 ton's relatives were weeping, and saying, * We cannot part with 
 them.* She looked upon them from the ship, with a sweet smile, 
 and pointing to heaven, said, ^ Don't weep.'f The missionaries 
 stood together on the side of the ship, facing the throng with cheer- 
 ful faces, undimned (so far as I could discover) by a single tear. 
 
 * It was an affecting circumstance, that while Mr. Phillips' father visited Boston, to 
 take leave of his son, he took the small pox, and on his return to Plainfield gave it to 
 his wife, and they both died. 
 
 t Mrs. Sutton was formerly the wife of Mr. Coleman, a missionary who sailed to Bur- 
 mah, soon after Messrs. Judson and Newell. 
 
DAVID MAKKS. 349 
 
 Singing and prayer were offered by those on shore, after which, 
 said brother Sutton, as he looked upon the weeping friends, ^ This 
 is not a sorrowful day to us. It is the happiest day I ever saw. 
 We are going to preach the gospel to the heathen. Do you, in this 
 Christian land, be careful that you do not neglect it^ If you do, 
 how will those condemn you to whom we are going ! Friends, think 
 of that.* The sails being spread and all things ready, at eleven 
 o'clock, A* M,, the ship moved from the wharf, and the mission- 
 aries commenced singing, 
 
 "Yes, my native land, I love thee," &c., 
 
 and continued until their voices were lost in the distance. After 
 the ship left the wharf, I stood and gazed one hour, till she appear- 
 ed as a mere speck, and then vanished from sight. A more solemn 
 scene I never witnessed, nor one that made a deeper impression 
 on my mind." 
 
 Immediately after the departure of the missionaries, Mr. Marks 
 returned to Portsmouth, and then proceeded in his own convey- 
 ance to Byron, in western New York, to attend the eighth session 
 of the General Conference, which commenced October 7, 1835. 
 The Conference accepted his request for a dismission from the 
 agency of the Book Concern, and appointed a Board of eleven 
 Trustees to assume his responsibilities. This Board appointed 
 Mr. Wm. Burr to act as their agent, which office he has ever 
 since retained. The Conference expressed to Mr. Marks their ap- 
 probation of the laborious, prompt, and faithful dischai'ge of the du- 
 ties committed to his trust, and appointed a committee to prepare 
 and publish an article in the Morning Star, expressive of their ap- 
 probation, of which the foUowdng is a copy. 
 
 " The Book Agent. At the last session of the General Conference, 
 the subscribers were appointed to publish in the Morning Star, an ex- 
 
 f session of that body in relation to the services of our late Book Agent, 
 n accordance with that appointment, we present the following for the 
 information of our brethren and the public. 
 
 It should be remembered that our Book Concern was commenced 
 without any capital. The General Conference in 1831, voted that a 
 Book Concern should be established in our denomination, and chose brother 
 David Marks Agent for the purpose of accomplishing that object. They 
 requested him to publish such books as the Publishing Committee might 
 think proper to direct. In 1832, the Conference directed the Agent to 
 purchase the Morning Star and printing establishment for the denomin- 
 ation, but they neither furnished him with funds or the means of obtain- 
 ing any on credit. Not a dollar did they put into his hands to aid him 
 in the prosecution of this business. A little reflection will enable any 
 person to see that money or credit was indispensable in commencing and 
 conducting the Book establishment. The denomination not being a cor- 
 porate body, could not sustain the Agent with their credit in any legal 
 30 
 
850 MEMOIBS OF 
 
 capacity whatever. Hence, his only means was personal responsibility, 
 by giving his own name and the names of such friends as were willing 
 with himself, to jeopardize their temporal property for the sake of ad- 
 vancing the cause of God, and the interests of the denomination. In ad- 
 dition to the usual evils which attend the obtaining any considerable 
 amount of property entirely on credit, our Agent was obliged to com- 
 mit the books which he had published into the hands of other agents, in 
 order for them to be sold with despatch. This greatly increased his care 
 and liabilities. Another fruitful source of perplexity and toil was, that 
 the measure was something new in our denomination. Some were 
 doubtful of its propriety — others were doubtful of its success, while 
 some, probably, were much opposed to its progress. In conducting a 
 business which required means to the amount of twelve or fourteen 
 thousand dollars, without funds, and against so many doubts and surmi- 
 ses, it followed, of course, that the Agent must have great trials, hard- 
 ships, and discouragements to encounter. The Concern itself also re- 
 quired much labor and great effort to carry it forward. But we confi- 
 dently believe the Divine blessing has accompanied the undertaking. 
 Brother Marks has now resigned his agency, and has received the ap- 
 probation of Conference for his prompt, faithful, and laborious services. 
 He has also committed the whole Concern into the hands of the denom- 
 ination, which is estimated to be worth $4000 above its debts, and 
 which commenced four years since with nothing.* If in the minds of 
 any, there has been a suspicion that the Agent has been serving him- 
 self, instead of his brethren and the cause of God, we trust that the 
 statement of the services which he has performed, and the compensa- 
 tion he has received, as published in the Minutes of the last Conference, 
 will effectually do away all such impressions. The following is an ex- 
 tract from the Agent's report as published in those Minutes. 
 
 *' During the first year of my agency, the whole expense of the pub- 
 lications issued, amounted to more than $ 4000. To meet these expen- 
 ses, I was obliged to use every effort. I travelled 5400 miles, mostly 
 with a span of horses, carrying and distributing loads of books, and, 
 "with my companion, served the Book Concern in various ways, most of 
 the time for one year, frequently sitting up whole nights, paying my 
 own travelling expenses, which amounted to nearly $ 500 in cash. To 
 balance all this expense of money and the toilsome labors of myself and 
 companion, which, on the principle of equality and justice^ I could not 
 have done short of $800 or $ 1000, I charged only $ 150. The rea- 
 sons for my presenting but this trifling account against the Book Con- 
 cern were as follows : 
 
 1. I knew that our beloved connexion was not sufficiently interested 
 in a book establishment to support it, unless the conductors would bear 
 unusual burdens. 
 
 2. I believed that unless I should make unusually low charges, almost 
 giving away both expense, money and my services, the conductors and 
 friends of the establishment would soon become discouraged, and aban- 
 don the object. And if they should do this, not only a failure of the in- 
 
 * The value of the property at this time, including the debts due for books, Star, &c., 
 was estimated at $10246,60— the debts which the "establishment owed, amounted to 
 ^6222,48. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 351 
 
 fant establishment would follow, but probably I should be stripped of my 
 little all to pay the debts I had already contracted. 
 
 3. Many had already become jealous that I had commenced a great 
 speculation, and that I was getting rich very fast, and others were per- 
 suaded that I never designed that the General Conference should have 
 the profits, in case there should be any. Considering these things, I 
 thought the success of the establishment demanded that I should make 
 such sacrifices as would convince even those who were most under the 
 influence of ignorance and prejudice, that temporal interest was no part 
 of my object in taking the agency. 
 
 4. I believed that unless sacrifices were made and jealousies removed, 
 the designed establishment must inevitably fail, and that such an occur- 
 rence would be a great calamity to the Free-will Baptist denomination, 
 and to the souls which are under their influence. 
 
 During the first year of my agency, I became convinced that to en- 
 sure success, we [the connexion] must own a printing establishment and 
 publish a religious periodical ; I accordingly took measures to secure 
 this object, which was accomplished at the session of the General Con- 
 ference at Meredith, October, 1832. But here again I was under the 
 necessity of risking my property or of abandoning the object of estab- 
 lishing a Book Concern : I therefore gave my notes to the amount, in- 
 cluding debts before contracted, of $7,500. Nearly all this sum was 
 on interest ; and had there been any sudden unfavorable change in the 
 times, or loss by fire ; or had I deceased, it is nearly certain that no 
 one would have been willing ta take my responsibilities, and of course 
 a failure must have been the consequence. Notwithstanding these em- 
 barrassments, when two other manuscripts were presented by the Com- 
 mittee for publication, a few months after, viz : the Scriptural Cate- 
 chism and Mr. Sutton's Orissa Mission, I consented to publish them, 
 though the expenses would add $2,200 to the debts for which I was 
 holden. I did this because I thought that the publication of these works 
 would do much good in the world. 
 
 The second year of my service, I charged for time spent in the agen- 
 cy by the hour, 12 1-2 cents per hour (finding myself,) and my wages 
 amounted to the sum of $ 139,38. I also charged for my expenses in 
 travelling 800 miles, entirely for the Book Concern, $40. 
 
 In the course of the succeeding year, I published 5000 copies of the 
 " Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will Baptists" — 3000 copies of a 
 work by J. G. Pike, called "True Happiness" — 3000 copies of the 
 Scriptural Catechism ; and 4000 copies of the Free-will Baptist Regis- 
 ter. Times were hard, and to meet the payment of old debts as ihey 
 became due, and the current expenses of the printing establishment, I 
 found it exceedingly diflicult. I charged this year for my services 
 12 1-2 cents per hour, bearing my own expenses, and my wages amount- 
 ed to about $ 180. I charged for the expenses incurred in travelling 
 about 1000 miles on purpose for the Book establishment, $50. 
 
 During the fourth and last year of my agency, I published only 1000 
 copies of the Christian Melody and 5000 copies of the Register for 1836, 
 and have found little difficulty in meeting every engagement, and my 
 services, compared with the former years, were comparatively easy. It 
 became necessary, however, to settle up all the accounts of the estab- 
 
852 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 lishment from the beginning, and to send a bill to every assistant agent. 
 This occupied much time, and with contingent expenses of time, I spent 
 on an average six hours and forty minutes per day, for which I charged 
 12 1-2 cents per hour, amounting to $250. I charged for my expenses 
 in travelling 1200 miles, mostly, or solely for the establishment, $60. 
 
 By the preceding, you will see that I have served this institution as 
 Agent, a considerable part of the time for four years. * * It 
 will also be observed that, for all the personal responsibilities, perplexities, 
 cares, anxieties, and risk of my own property, in being holden for more 
 than $ 14,000 original debts, besides the daily expenses of the office, 
 together with the privilege of choosing my own residence and pursuit 
 for a support, and to be always ready to meet every demand, I have nev- 
 er made any charge.* 
 
 And now, dear brethren, I resign to you the sacred responsibilities of 
 my appointment. I have done the best I could — I have received much 
 aid from the members of the Publishing Committee, particularly in their 
 undersigning my notes, also from assistant agents and other friends. 
 The Committee have truly been companions in affliction. They too 
 have labored for less than half the value of their services. So have 
 many others. I have not alluded to any of my responsibilities, desiring 
 a reward, but merely that truth might appear, to the honor of this 
 institution. I do not desire a reward. I took tliese responsibilities upon 
 me in the name of the Lord, and money cannot reward me. Now in the 
 name of the Lord I resign them. I bid you and my successors, God 
 speed. 
 
 I feel the warmest interest possible in the establishment, and it is 
 among my most earnest petitions, that God will give it success. I have 
 no interest but the interest of God's cause. This is your cause and 
 mine. May God give you wisdom in the disposition of this institution. 
 I am with much respect and thankfulness, for the confidence which you 
 have reposed in me, your devoted servant, 
 
 David Marks, Booh Agent. 
 
 As the subscription list for the Morning Star had increased to 
 nearly five thousand, the Conference voted a second enlargement 
 of its size without an increase of the price, and also voted to in- 
 struct the Trustees to obtain from the Legislature of New Hamp- 
 shire an act of incorporation for their Board. 
 
 It may not be improper to state here, that in accordance with 
 the above advice, an application was made to the New Hampshire 
 Legislature for an act of incorporation the following June. It was 
 refused on account of the abolition character of the Morning Star. 
 The Dover Gazette remarked as follows, concerning the rejection 
 of their petition. 
 
 * The daily expenses of the office, together with the origiual debts, during the four 
 years that Mr. Marks was Agent, he estimated at ^22,000. Ed. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 353 
 
 " Abolitionism in New Hampshire. It is a fact better known to the 
 readers of the Morning Star — the Free-will Baptist paper published in 
 this village — than it is to a very great majority of the citizens of New 
 Hampshire, that the conductors of that paper have dipped deeply into 
 the troubled waters of abolitionism, and have, for the last few months, 
 not a little polluted their columns by an advocacy of its very incendiary 
 doctrines. They have, during the last week, received a most decided 
 rebuke for their conduct. A bill had been introduced into the House of 
 "Representatives, ' To incorporate the Trustees of the Free-will Baptist 
 Printing Establishment and Book Concern,' which was very securely 
 progressing through the customary stages, when it was mentioned among 
 the members that this establishment had become a vehicle of abolition- 
 ism ; this produced an instant inquiry into the truth of the suggestion, 
 and the result was that the bill, although zealously advocated by the 
 ablest oi the federal members , was on Wednesday refused a third reading 
 by an overwhelming majority." 
 
 Since the time of this first refusal, the Trustees have regularly 
 presented their petition every year, now about ten years, which has 
 met with the same repulse, for the same reason. There is a pros- 
 pect now that they will obtain their request at the ensuing session 
 of the Legislature, as it is believed that at the last election, some 
 were put into office who will be true to the principles of human 
 freedom. 
 
 After the close of the General Conference, it was found neces- 
 sary for Mr. Marks to return to Dover in order to make the trans- 
 fer of the property of the Book Concern, which was found to be 
 something of a difficult matter, on account of their having no act of 
 incorporation. By the aid of a lawyer, however, a deed was drawn 
 up and executed satisfactory to all parties. 
 
 Mr. Marks resigned his offices in the Home and Foreign Mis- 
 sionary Societies, shipped his goods to New York, and with many 
 solemn feelings, bade his New England friends farewell. The 
 Holland Purchase yearly meeting had formed a Home Mission So- 
 ciety, and during the session of the General Conference, its Board 
 solicited Mr. Marks to accept an appointment from them to labor 
 in Rochester, N. Y., and try to gather a church. This was a dif- 
 ferent field from what he had purposed entering ; but, after con- 
 sidering the matter, that he was at liberty to labor little or much,, 
 as his strength would permit, and that probably he should not have 
 the care of providing for his own support, he concluded the circum- 
 stances might be as favorable for the improvement of his health, as 
 perhaps any other, and accordingly accepted the appointment. The 
 Society also at the same time sent another missionary to Buffalo. 
 Mr. Marks' travels till the time of entering upon his labors in 
 Rochester, are detailed briefly in the following letter, published ia 
 the Star. 
 
 30* 
 
354 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ** Dear Brethren, 
 
 As at present, I have not time to write to many of my cor- 
 respondents, I must content myself with a little detail in the Star. 
 We left Dover about the first of November, and in ten days reach- 
 ed Brockport, by stage and canal, a distance of nearly five hundred 
 miles. Three days of this time were spent in Arlington, Yt. We 
 left the canal at Brockport, and continued our journey to Canada in 
 our own conveyance. As a great abundance of rain had fallen, the* 
 roads were excessively bad, and the mud deeper than it had been 
 known to be for several years. We arrived at Zorra, U. C. about 
 the 20th of November, and met with many dear friends from whom 
 we had been separated for years. 
 
 I visited the churches in London, South wold, Dunwich and Bur- 
 ford, found the brethren in general steadfast, but they much need 
 help. Here is a great field for missionary labor. Our Open-com- 
 munion Baptist brethren were prospering in some places. The 
 Calvinistic Baptists n§ar the Niagara were enjoying precious sea- 
 sons. Many, through their labors, had turned to the Lord. The 
 Methodists were not so prosperous. Divisions and contentions had 
 greatly hindered their usefulness. They were split into three sects, 
 called the Ryan, British, and Episcopal Methodists. Towards the 
 last of December we once more left the parental I'oof, and returned 
 to the state of New York. I preached by the way in Hamilton 
 and St. Catharines. We were detained at Queenston nearly two 
 days by the ice in the river, the boatmen refusing to venture 
 across. In consequence of this detention, I failed of an appoint- 
 ment. We attended the Monroe quarterly meeting in North Mur- 
 ray, commencing Dec. 25th, which was a very precious season. A 
 Home Mission Society, auxiliary to the New York Home Mission 
 Society, was formed, and about one hundred and fifty dollars were 
 subscribed or contributed. This quarterly meeting is very pros- 
 perous; union and harmony generally prevail. Its ministers, 
 though few, are mostly wholly devoted to the work. It has now 
 seventeen churches. New Years* day and the Sabbath follow- 
 ing, were spent with the church in Canandaigua. Our meetings 
 were solemn and profitable. At the close, several anxious souls 
 came forward and seemed unwavermg in their decisions to live a new 
 life. ***** Pray for a blessing on the 
 labors of your brother in tribulation, D. Marks." 
 
 While Mr. Marks was detained in Queenston, he wrote a set of 
 resolutions for the government of his life. He had been in the 
 habit of doing this for years, but as he was adding to them occa- 
 sionally, a detailed notice of this practice has been hitherto omit- 
 ted. He employed the leisure his unexpected detention furnished 
 
DAVID MABKS. 355 
 
 him in systematizing his former rules and adding new ones. Be- 
 lieving that the reader of these memoirs will be profited as well as 
 interested in the perusal of these rules, and as they exempli- 
 fy the care with which he guarded his conduct in the most se- 
 cret as well as public walks of life, it is deemed proper to introduce 
 them. They were written in book form, with the following title 
 page: 
 
 « DAVID MARKS' LAST RESOLUTIONS, 
 
 Made for life, at Queenston, U. 01 
 
 Dec. 23, 3 o'clock, P. M. in the year of my Lord, 1835. 
 
 ^^ Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is 
 perfect. ^^ Jesus Christ. 
 
 Resolutions. By the grace of God, I do solemnly make the 
 following resolutions, and determine to read them as often as once 
 a week, and to keep them faithfully all the days of my life. And, 
 O my blessed Savior, I pray that thou wouldst keep me steadfast 
 to the end. Amen. David Marks. 
 
 I. With regard to my thoughts, 1. I will indulge in no reflec- 
 tions nor meditations which I believe will not be useful to me, but 
 the moment when vain suggestions first approach, I will thrust them 
 from me. 2. I will not think a great deal upon worldly subjects, 
 or, at least, not so much as to prevent my meditation being upon 
 God's law day and night. 3. I will endeavor to spend twenty 
 minutes before every meal in close examination and meditation. 
 
 II. My motives. 1. I will always endeavor to have but one 
 motive to lead me forward and influence me to act in every thing, 
 and this motive shall be to glorify my Maker. 2. I will endeavor 
 to examine carefully my secret motives in all I do, and when I dis- 
 cover that my motive is not pure, and for God's glory, and this 
 alone, I will not be led by it, but resist it. 
 
 III. In relation to my temper. 1. I will endeavor always to 
 keep it calm and without irritability. 2. I will strive hard to be 
 always meek and patient in all circumstances. 3. I will endeavor 
 to be deliberate in all things, and holy in all my inclinations and 
 feelings. 
 
 IV. ^5 to my deeds. 1. I will aim to do nothing except what, 
 on examination, I believe to be directly or indirectly commanded 
 by God. 2. I will endeavor to perform no deeds, which I am con- 
 vinced are merely selfish. 3. I will do nothing which I Avould be 
 ashamed to have known were it by accident or by necessity to be- 
 come public. 4. I will not overdo body or mind, but endeavor to 
 lay out my work according to the strength which God shall give, 
 so as never to bring myself mto temptation by needless perplexity. 
 
356 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 V. As a Christian. 1. I will endeavor to make my Lord and 
 Savior Jesus Christ, my guide, leader, pattern, and example. 2. I 
 will never be ashamed of Christ, nor to own myself a Christian in 
 any company, nor, from fear of reproach, neglect to introduce re- 
 ligion in any place, where I believe the effect would be salutary. 
 8. I will never conform to any of the fashions, manners, and cus- 
 toms of the world, except I am first convinced of their utility in 
 themselves considered, unless it be in a case where a variation 
 would be likely to do more harm than conformity. 4. I will en- 
 deavor to kneel and pray in secret three times a day, viz., when I 
 arise, at noon, and on going to bed ; and I will strive always to 
 have my whole soul engaged in prayer Avhen my lips are. 5. I 
 will endeavor never to pray to be heard of men, nor merely to con- 
 tinue a form, but always pray for what I want and nothing else. 
 6. I will endeavor always to attend family worship before break- 
 fast, and before supper, both at home and abroad, except in such 
 cases as I shall judge it duty to omit it. 
 
 VI. As a minister. 1. I will labor constantly to be intelligent, 
 and for this purpose I will attentively read three chapters in the 
 Bible by course every day, and will endeavor to spend two hours 
 each day in scientific studies, two hours in theological studies, and 
 two hours in writing. 2. I will always endeavor to spend one 
 hour before every sermon, and every other religious meeting I may 
 attend, in study and reflection, preparatory for the sacred services, 
 when I can consistently with other duties. 3. I will endeavor al- 
 ways to introduce religious conversation and prayer in all places 
 where my lot may be cast, and among all kinds of company, unless, 
 indeed, other circumstances forbid, so that it is evidently duty to 
 omit such services. 4. I will always improve every opportunity 
 to reprove sin : still I will endeavor to do it with meekness and af- 
 fection, both publicly and privately. 5. I will endeavor to spend 
 one hour every day in religious visiting and conversation, and al- 
 ways endeavor to visit and pray with two families each day, one of 
 whom shall be a family I never visited before. 7. I will always 
 endeavor to instruct the ignorant with meekness and patience. 
 
 VII. As a husband. 1. I will always be attentive to learn and 
 supply the wants of my dear wife. 2. I will never be impatient, 
 quick, nor fretful, nor disposed to fault finding. 3. I will never be 
 morose. 4. I will always be attentive. 5. I will always be affec- 
 tionate. 6. I will always be very kind. 7. I will never be impo- 
 lite. 8. I will always be sociable. 9. I will always be respect- 
 ful. 
 
 VIII. As a citizen. 1. I will carefully read and consider the 
 things of public interest, and faithfully serve the public. 2. I will 
 always treat rulers with respect. 3. Still I will be faithful to truth 
 
DAVID MARKS. 357 
 
 and justice. 4. I will faithfully warn my country of its dangers. 
 
 5. I will be courteous, and obliging, and kind to all men. 
 
 IX. In relation to my words. 1. They shall be few. 2. They 
 shall be well considered. 3. They shall be always serious. 4. 
 They shall be always plain. 5. They shall never be slanderous. 
 
 6. They shall always be kind. 7. They shall never exaggerate 
 truth. 8. They shall always be designed to do good. 9. I will 
 always be cautious what I say and to whom I say it. 10. I will 
 always endeavor to think carefully before I speak, especially when 
 circumstances do not absolutely demand that I should speak imme- 
 diately. 11. I will always, when with Christians and ministers, 
 endeavor, according to my ability, to discern what duties they neg- 
 lect, and encoui'uge them to renewed diligence and faithfulness. 12. 
 I will endeavor always, according to my ability, to be teaching sin- 
 ners their guilt, and their duty to repent immediately. 13. I will 
 strive always to be courteous to my friends, but never flattering. 
 14. In my public addresses, I will endeavor to have all my words 
 solemn. 15. In private they shall be guarded. 16. All itiy con- 
 versation shall be religious or strictly conformable to religious prin- 
 ciples. 
 
 X. As to my temporal concerns. 1. I will not be a slave. 2. 
 Nor will I be anxious. 3. I will not be covetous. 4. I will not 
 be wasteful. 5. Neither will I be selfish. 6. I will not be pro- 
 fuse. 7. Neither will I be gay. 8. I will always endeavor to 
 drive my work and never let that drive me. 9. I will be very 
 cautious of getting embarrassed in my temporal affairs. 10. I will 
 endeavor to contract no needless expense. 11. I will endeavor to 
 devote all I have to God, either directly or indirectly. 12. So 
 long as my income from my labors, and those of my wife amount 
 to S400 per year, I will give, that is, pay out SlOO per annum for 
 benevolent purposes. 13. So long as the Lord prospers me, I will 
 give, that is, pay out twenty-five per cent of the increase of my 
 property to God, the estimate to be made Jan. 1, 1836. 
 
 XL As to my sleep. I will endeavor to sleep eight hours in 
 the w^inter, and seven hours in the summer, or at least lie in bed 
 these number of hours, and these hours shall be equally before and 
 after midnight, or at least between nine and five o'clock. 
 
 XII. As to general duties. 1. I will endeavor that all my 
 preaching shall be affectionate. 2. I will endeavor when circum- 
 stances and other duties will permit, to preach from five to seven 
 times per week. 3. I will always labor to feel what I preach. 4. 
 In labors, meetings of business, &c. &c., I will be very cautious of 
 giving offence, yet be firm to truth. 5. I will watch my opportu- 
 nities to visit those that are in prison. 6. I will also often visit 
 those that are confined in alms houses. 7. I will frequently visit 
 
358 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the sick. 8. I will use tlie best economy I can in all my expen- 
 ses, and in all things. 9. I will be kind to the poor, and especially 
 to those who are my relatives. 10. Finally, if hereafter I find any 
 good thing not included in these resolutions, I will practice the 
 same. 11. I will read these resolutions every week for at least 
 five years, if I live, and try to keep them without the least varia- 
 tion." 
 
 Subsequently he added the following : "1. I will ever watch 
 against coarseness, abruptness, and a dogmatical manner of speaking, 
 and will labor constantly to abound and excel in meekness, mild- 
 ness, complaisance, and sociability, being always neat, kind, gentle, 
 instructive, obliging, and agreeable, before all classes of men, but 
 especially when with my dearest friend. May God enable me al- 
 ways to be faithful, kind, and obliging to her. 2. In all my con- 
 versation, I will labor to be humble, gentle, candid, without self 
 conceit, or ostentation, always showing a deference to the opinions 
 of others, especially those of the aged and the learned. 3. I will 
 endeavor never to speak a hasty or impatient word, however great 
 a provocation I may receive, but will always aim to be deliberate, 
 swift to hear and slow to speak. 4. I will reprove tenderly every 
 instance of wickedness I witness among friends or foes. 5. I will 
 endeavor to use all my strength and energies, both of body and 
 mind, so as to do the greatest possible amount of good, i^" Re- 
 member this. 6. I will aim at perfection in all I do with body or 
 mind, i^ Don't forget the extent of this rule. 7. F^ially, I will 
 make holiness of heart and life the only object of my living, that I 
 may be prepared to glorify God and save souls." 
 
 In a revision and adoption of his rules, Aug. 2, 1837, he super- 
 scribed them his " Golden, life-bound, perfect, irreversible, manly, 
 self-abasing, God-honoring, invaluable resolutions," and signed his 
 name with a seal. 
 
 Allusion has already been made to his sufferings from hunger 
 while he could bear very little food. At times, his agony from 
 this source was so great, that he would weep like a child, and look 
 around wishfully upon the doors and furniture of the room, and 
 say he could scarcely refrain from gnawing them. He had previ- 
 ously written rules regulating his diet, which he thus prefaced : 
 " Wliereas, I have made several solemn resolutions in relation to 
 my diet, which my exceeding sufferings in hunger, have, as it were, 
 compelled me to violate, or vary from, I do now hereby make the 
 following." He then particularized the quality and quantity of 
 each meal, as he thought most conducive to his health, and at the 
 close, wrote thus: "Penalties. For violating these rules in 
 thought^ I will live on nought but bread and water, twelve ounces 
 each for one day. For violating them in the amount of drink, I 
 
DAVID MARKS. 
 
 will live thus two days. For violating them in eating, I will live 
 thus ten days. 
 
 February 3, eleven o'clock, A. M. Arraigned myself for trial, 
 having broken my rules, and sentenced myself to live on bread 
 and water according to the above penalty ten days. February 10. 
 Finally, I have run away from the penalty ! What shall I do to 
 conquer a diseased appetite ? O Lord, do thou strengthen and 
 help me." 
 
 CHAPTER XXVI. 
 
 Mr.'Marks^ Labors in Rochester, N. T. S^c.from Jan* 1836, to 
 July 1838. 
 
 Mr. Marks entered upon his labors in Rochester, under the di- 
 rection of the New York Home Mission Society, the second Sab- 
 bath in January 1836, with somewhat improved health. Much 
 to his gratification, his only sister, over whom he had for years ex- 
 ercised a parental care, now became a member of his family. 
 About this time, Mr. Burr wrote him some particulars of an effort 
 (which came near being successful) to close the columns of the 
 Star against the discussion of slavery, and also of the opposition 
 and fiery trials he still had to encounter to keep the Star unshack- 
 led. The following is an extract from the reply he wrote Mr. 
 Burr. 
 
 "My heart bleeds for the sins of the church. My soul is often 
 in agony when I see professing Christians opposing the Scriptural 
 method, and the only possible, peaceful method, of exterminating sla- 
 very, viz. to stop doing wrong now, to cease to do evil now, and let 
 the oppressed go free. It is not in my power to help doubting the 
 genuineness of the piety of such professors, the depth and solidity 
 of their Christian principles. Abolition principles are not mere 
 opinions. They are self-evident principles — principles that 
 God has abundantly taught and written as with a sun-beam in his 
 word which cannot be broken. O my dear brother, God has put 
 feelings in my heart for his down-troddren poor that it would 
 be vain for me to attempt to express. I do often feel that I " re- 
 member those that are in bonds as bound with them." O, for what 
 would I be willing to be a slave ! — to be the property of another ! 
 —to have my wife torn from me, sold as human ware at public 
 auction ! But I stop. I cannot go on. There will be a better 
 state of things, I know there will, for there is a God in heaven. 
 He has promised to deliver the ^ needy when he crieth, the poor al- 
 
860 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 SO, and him that hath no helper, and to break in pieces the oppress- 
 or/ And though professed Christians may ' speak wickedly con- 
 cerning oppression' and God may say of them as he did of his 
 ancient people : ' Even of late my people is risen up as an enemy,* 
 victory will yet turn on the side of justice and truth. I have hope 
 for my country, for though our princes [President and governors] 
 plead for the system that ' sheds blood and destroys souls in order to 
 get dishonest gain, and many of our prophets daub them with un- 
 tempered mortar, seeing vanity and divining lies unto them, saying, 
 * Thus saith the Lord' — slavery is my institution^ — keep it sacred 
 — when the Lord hath not spoken. For though ' the people of 
 the land have used oppression, and exercised rohhery, and have 
 vexed the poor and the needy ; yea, they have oppress.ed the 
 stranger wrongfully ;' yet when God has sought for men among us 
 that should ^ make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before him 
 for the land that he should not destroy it,' he has found some preC' 
 ious ones that in the midst of opprobrium, dangers, perils, and even 
 death, have stood up with the spirit of martyrs, and plead the cause 
 of the oppressed. Therefore God has not yet 'poured out his in- 
 dignation upon us, he has not yet consumed us with the fire of his 
 wrath ; our own way he has not recompensed upon our heads.' 
 See Ezekiel 22:27 — 31. O I love, I revere, I venerate those no- 
 ble souls that have the moral courage, and the Christian principle, 
 in this evil day, in these degenerate times, to go forth in the midst 
 of the storm of wrath, persecution, and bitter reviling, and plead 
 the cause of bleeding Zion and suffering humanity." 
 
 The following brief summary of Mr. Marks' labors in Roches- 
 ter, are taken from his quarterly reports to the Executive Board of 
 the Free-will Baptist New York Home Mission Society. 
 
 First Beport,t/lQXQh. 3L * * * "In commenc- 
 
 ing my labors my first object was to procure a place for meetings. 
 I succeeded in obtaining leave to occupy the Court House, and on 
 Sabbath, January 10, preached my first sermons. My subjects 
 were a summary of the doctrine which I proposed to preach in 
 my future ministrations, and the duties of a minister of Christ. 
 Since that time I have preached in the Court House three times 
 every Sabbath. For the greater edification of my regular hear- 
 ers, I followed a system in the order of my discourses, so as to em- 
 brace in the end every important branch of the doctrine of Divine 
 Revelation. The following are the subjects on which I have 
 preached one or more discourses in the systematic chain of ser- 
 mons which I proposed to deliver. The folly of atheism — Incon- 
 sistency of deism — Inconsistency of irreligion — The contradictions 
 of infidelity — The external evidences of Christianity — The Scrip- 
 ture miracles — The internal evidences of Christianity — Existence 
 
DAVID MARKS. 361 
 
 of God— His unity — His eternity and immutability — His omni- 
 presence and omniscience — His power — His justice — His good- 
 ness — His truth — His mercy — His wisdom. In connection with 
 these discourses, I have given a number on various subjects suited 
 to the state of the congregation, such as, Man's disposition to reject 
 the gospel — The excellence of the Scriptures — Their commenda- 
 tion to the consciences of all men — The effects of the gospel — ^Its 
 fruits, an evidence of its divine authenticity — God's call upon sin- 
 ners — The invitations of the gospel— Repentance — Baptism a bu- 
 rial — The witnesses against the impenitent — The confession of 
 Christ — The cross of Christ — God's expostulations with the wick- 
 ed — Christ a stone of stumbling — The sinner's encouragement to 
 follow Christ. In all these discourses, I have endeavored to intro- 
 duce something practical, remembering that a right practice is the 
 great object which the preaching of the gospel is designed to ef- 
 fect. My congi'egation has usually consisted of from fifty to one 
 hundred persons ; sometimes more. The meetings have been or- 
 derly, and the hearers generally very solenm. A number have 
 given heed to the word, and six persons have given good evidence 
 that they have passed from death unto life. I have baptized sev- 
 en ; twenty one have pledged their names for the support of the 
 meeting, and to unite in a church when there shall be one form- 
 ed. None of those who propose to unite possess much property, 
 so that at present, little more can be expected from them than to 
 defray the expenses of the meeting for fuel, lights, and attendance. 
 Their being poor in this world is, however, no cause of discourage- 
 ment, for among this class the gospel has usually obtained its first 
 reception. The Scripture saith, " You see your calling, brethren-— 
 God hath chosen the poor of this world." Some of these breth- 
 ren have excellent gifts in exhortation and prayer, so that, in the 
 absence of a preacher, they frequently hold very interesting pray- 
 er meetings. Besides the twenty one who have given their names, 
 there are a few others who are attached to our meeting that, will 
 probably join when the church is formed. The general state of 
 religion in Rochester is very good. Eight of the churches have 
 held protracted meetings since the 15th of January, and a glorious 
 revival has spread through the city in which many hundreds have 
 been converted. 
 
 During my stay in Rochester, I have preached more or less in 
 Byron, Ogden, Batavia, Parma, Riga, Chili, Clarkson, Penfield, 
 Canandaigua, Brighton, and Greece. In all I have preached thirty 
 times in towns and neighborhoods adjacent to Rochester and its vi- 
 cinity, and have spent about two weeks on councils in settling diffi- 
 culties in Byron and Attica churches. I have also been present at 
 two prayer meetings every week in Rochester. These have been 
 31 
 
362 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 very useful and well attended. Having as yet scarcely regulated 
 my affairs in settling my residence, I have been able to devote lit- 
 tle time to visiting. I have generally aimed to spend about six hours 
 daily in study. 
 
 The Court House is old and leaky, and not very convenient for 
 public worship, and as in former years it has been the meeting 
 place for infidels and false teachers, its character as a place of wor- 
 ship has not been very reputable. Many who do not attend our 
 meeting say they would, if we had a convenient and respectable 
 place for meetings. Indeed, it will be extremely difficult to suc- 
 ceed in Rochester to any considerable extent without a meeting 
 house. To this it may be added, that real estate is rising at an un- 
 precedented rate, and a building lot that now costs ilOOO will 
 probably cost twice this sum in twelve months hence. On the 
 whole, I consider the field now opened for the Free-will Baptists to 
 do good in this city to be very great. Doubtless Rochester will, 
 at no distant period, become a great city and a centre of influence 
 from which thousands of characters in other places will be form- 
 ed for eternity. Yours, affectionately, 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 Second Report. June 30. " In my last report, I named that twen- 
 ty-one had given their names to unite in a church. April 10, one 
 was organized, consisting of twenty-eight members, fourteen of 
 whom I had recently baptized. I was assisted in the organiza- 
 tion by two ministers from the Monroe quarterly meeting. Com- 
 mittees had been previously appointed to examine carefully the 
 character and piety of each applicant. The different members 
 subscribed to a covenant and declaration of sentiments, embodying 
 the great principles, doctrine, and practice, of the Bible. Our 
 evening assemblies have decreased, in consequence of business and 
 the shortness of the evenings, but our congregation in the day time 
 increases. We have held a stated prayer meeting twice a week, 
 and a covenant meeting once a month. These meetings have been 
 well attended, and the brethren seem well engaged. Though the 
 revival has subsided, we have no reason to be discouraged. We 
 are treated with much kindness by all classes, and especially by 
 all evangelical Christians. For want of funds to purchase a libra- 
 ry, we have not been able to establish a Sabbath school with pros- 
 pects of success ; for children would not come to our school, if we 
 could not encourage them with books as do others. We meet with 
 a great loss in not sustaining one. We have a number of mem- 
 bers well qualified for teachers who would enlist with all their 
 hearts. Once or twice I have resolved that I would purchase a 
 library at my own expense, but to confess the truth I could not, 
 for, besides taking on myself several responsibilities to a considera- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 363 
 
 ble amount directly or indirectly connected with the mission, I have 
 been necessitated to supply my own wants to a considerable extent, 
 and this with more difficulty and embarrassment than I could en- 
 dure, without turning my attention from the word of God. [At 
 this time, if I mistake not, Mr. Marks had received but about twen- 
 ty dollars directly from the mission society. He often went out 
 during the week among the churches, and raised contributions 
 which he credited to the society. Ed.] Thus I have had little 
 time to visit and hold personal intercourse with my hearers, a la- 
 bor which adds greatly to a minister's success and usefulness. 
 Since my last report, I have attended the Monroe and Benton quar^ 
 terly meetings, in both of which collections Were taken for Home 
 Missions. I have usually preached three times on the Sabbath, 
 still following a systematic course in theolo^, excepting when pe- 
 culiar circumstances required another subject. I have also preach- 
 ed in Brighton, Walworth, Gorham, and Benton, and several times 
 in each of the following towns, Parma> Penfield, Canandaigua, and 
 Milo. 
 
 Experience had convinced us more and more, that without a meet- 
 ing house, our success in Rochester must be extremely limited, and 
 that to delay to obtain a site for one would render it more difficult 
 and expensive to procure a good location. About two months 
 since, we examined two convenient lots, and tacitly promis- 
 ed ourselves that we would attempt to secure one of them, but 
 while we waited, the price of one was raised S500, and that of the 
 other $1000. Then we partially resolved to organize our society 
 according to law, raise what subscription we could, and if necessa- 
 ry, hire a few hundred dollars to make the first payment. The 
 subject was laid before the Monroe quarterly meeting : they advis- 
 ed us to secure a lot and build a house as soon as possible, and 
 pledged themselves to do all in their power to sustain us. * * 
 * * I took measures to have our society incorporated accord- 
 ing to law, and after searching the city one week for the best site 
 we could obtain, by the advice of our leading brethren, I purchas- 
 ed for them a lot fifty-six feet by one hundred and twenty-six, on 
 the comer of Buffalo and King streets. Several gentlemen give 
 encouragement that they will aid us considerably.* We have ven- 
 tured to appoint six trustees, and have issued proposals for building 
 a stone church, fifty feet by seventy-five, the basement to contain a 
 vestry to be ready for use by the 1st of Jan. next, and the house 
 to be finished within twelve months. We think we can raise three 
 thousand dollars in Rochester, and to encourage the work I have 
 
 * One gentleman, a prominent member of the third Presbyterian church, said he 
 would raise one thousand dollars. 
 
864 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 promised to subscribe five hundred dollars, and have solemnly cov- 
 enanted with the trustees to stand by them. 
 
 Now, brethren, the subscription is printed : one hundred copies 
 are ready, and shall we present them to the public in Rochester, 
 and among our churches in the surrounding country ? 
 
 Yours in love, David Marks." 
 
 ^ The Board approbated the proceedings of the church, and ad- 
 vised them to go forward. 
 
 Mr. Marks' third quarterly report is lost, and for the ensuing 
 three months there is no record of his labors. On his return to 
 Rochester after meeting the Board, he learned that three church- 
 es, who contemplated building houses of worship, had circulated 
 subscriptions through the city. Several friendly gentlemen advis- 
 ed that the circulation of the subscription for the Free-will Baptist 
 house be deferred a few weeks, as they thought much more suc- 
 cess would be insured, than to follow directly after so many solici- 
 tations. Accordingly it was decided to let the matter rest for a 
 season. Mr. Marks hired, on his own responsibility, at a high in- 
 terest, five hundred dollars to meet the first payment on the meet- 
 ing house lot, and a small house and lot purchased in connection 
 with it for a parsonage. He prosecuted his labors much as he had 
 done, but struggling with increasing embarrassments. In the lat- 
 ter part of August, Mr. Abner Kneeland, the noted infidel, came to 
 Rochester, and by the intrigue and misrepresentation of some infi- 
 dels in the city, got possession of the Court House on the afternoon 
 of Sabbath Aug. 21. Mr. Marks read a statement in the meeting 
 from the sherifi^ which, with other circumstances, exposed the du- 
 plicity that had been used. He then dismissed his congregation, 
 advising them to go to some other meeting, but thought it his duty 
 to listen to Mr. Kneeland and give a public reply. He did so, and 
 also wrote out Mr. Kneeland's arguments, presented in three lec- 
 tures, and his own replies, which were subsequently published in 
 the Morning Star.* In defence of this course, he said, " For years, 
 
 * Mr. Kneeland, in a public assembly in Boston, Mass. not far from the time he was in 
 Rochester, dared the Almighty to strike him dead, and gave him five minutes in which 
 to do it, holding his watch in his hand, with his arm extended, until the minutes had ex- 
 pired, and then tauntingly said: " Where is now your God ?" For wise reasons, his in- 
 sulted Maker contiuued his life till a few months since, when he was arrested by the 
 ragings of a fever in Iowa, and was said to have passed unconsciously to the judgment. 
 Directly over his head, hung the prayer of a " Free thinker," written by himself, and 
 around his room the pictures of Tom Paine, Voltaire, and their infamous associates. 
 It is said that during the last six years of his life, he labored zealously and assiduously 
 to plant a seat for atheism in the valley of the West. On the banks of the Des Moines 
 in Iowa, he located his paradise, and hoped to see a generation arise, who should open- 
 ly proclaim, •' There is no God." But the Lord has laughed at his impotent efforts, and 
 as now over the sleeping dust of Voltaire, the great champion of infidelity in the old 
 world, stands a Christian sanctuary for devout worshippers, so in this seat of the infidel 
 Kneeland, it is stated that " there are now five Christian churches, and five educated or- 
 dained miuiaters, preaching salvation by the blood of the Lamb." 
 
DAVID MAKKS. 365 
 
 I have thought that ministers ought not to pursue such a dignified 
 and independent manner, as they usually do, in relation to the at- 
 tacks of infidels. We ought to meet every opposer, and with all 
 meekness and patience accommodate ourselves to the weakest ca- 
 pacity, and condescend to answer plainly and familiarly every ar- 
 gument which might deceive even the most ignorant. If ministers 
 will not throw themselves into the breach, who will? If those 
 whom God has set for the defence of the gospel will not accommo- 
 date themselves and their arguments to the condition and capaci- 
 ties of the unlearned, and the haters of religious restraints, who 
 will ? Is it right to give up this multitude ?" 
 
 The opposition of the infidels in Rochester was aroused, and 
 through their influence it was decided that the Court House should 
 be closed against all stated religious meetings. The church then 
 met in a stone school house in a distant part of the city, and after- 
 wards in a brick building on the corner of Ann and State streets. 
 
 In October, Mr. Marks attended the first anniversary of the 
 New York Anti Slavery Society in Utica, as a delegate from the 
 Rochester Anti Slavery Society. Mr. Gerritt Smith and Alvan 
 Stewart, Esq. were among the speakers. 
 
 In the mean time pecuniary difficulties had continued to thicken. The 
 season had been the most unfavorable of any for many years. Crops 
 were generally cut off", and as the Mission Society was mostly de- 
 pendent on the contributions of farmers, it had received no funds^ 
 its Board had become discouraged, and informed Mr. Marks that 
 such was the scarcity, they were utterly unable to redeem their 
 pledge to support him. They said to him, that if he wished to 
 leave, he had their approbation in so doing, but it would be grati- 
 fying to them if he could remain. He was now brought into tri- 
 als he had not anticipated. He had been living for a time on 
 credit, expecting funds from the society to meet these expenses. 
 His little home in Canandaigua, in consequence of the rise of re- 
 al estate, he had sold for S2100, in an exchange for a piece of 
 woodland two miles from the village. This he tried to sell, but 
 found times had become so hard, that he could not without a great 
 sacrifice. His only alternatives were to abandon the church in^ 
 Rochester, or do something to meet his expenses. After much 
 consideration and prayer, he concluded to do the latter. Perse- 
 verance was one of the constituents of his character, and he had 
 been accustomed to struggle with difficulties. His health had great- 
 ly improved, but he dared not enter upon any business that would 
 materially add to his mental labors. He soon had an opportunity 
 to engage with a partner in lumbering, and thought he had made 
 arrangements that would secure him means to meet his expenses, 
 31* 
 
MEMOIRS OP 
 
 and yet leave most of his time for ministerial duties. The follow- 
 ing is taken from his fourth report to the Home Mission Board. 
 
 December 29, 1836. 
 Dear brethren, 
 
 You recollect that at your last meeting, you informed me that 
 you were unable to redeem your pledge to sustain me, and that I 
 was at liberty to leave, &c. After deep reflection and much pray- 
 er for Divine assistance, I felt satisfied for the following reasons, 
 that it was duty to remain, although I was well aware that trials 
 and afflictions awaited me, 1. The little church that had been 
 gathered was the fruit of much toil, watching, and many prayers, 
 and to my feelings it was as cruel as death to leave them without a 
 shepherd. 2. The thoughts of the dishonor it would bring on our 
 denomination and the cause, seemed more than I could endure. 3. 
 I had already contracted debts to some amount for living in the 
 city, and as the pressure of the times had become such that I had 
 been unable to turn my property into money, I could not pay my 
 debts and leave honorably. So I committed my case to Him who 
 has promised that " No good thing will he withhold from him that 
 walketh uprightly," being perfectly aware that my temporal em- 
 barrassments would exceed all through which I had ever passed. 
 But considering the extremely interesting field of labor before me, 
 that was white, all ready to harvest, notwithstanding all the dif- 
 ficulties and afflictive circumstances that surrounded me, the only 
 alternative that seemed presented in the path of duty was — to 
 enter into business that would afford me relief till I could make 
 a different disposition of my affairs. ***** 
 I have arranged my business with a view of having as much time 
 as possible for ministerial labor. To benefit the church and the 
 world is the only object for which I am willing to live, and to which 
 I am determined that, through the grace of God, every act of my 
 life shall be subservient. Consequently in the course I have pur- 
 sued, I feel peace of conscience, and whenever the necessity of its 
 further pursuit is removed, it will be with joy inexpressible that I 
 shall relinquish it. 
 
 Since the meeting of the Board in August last, some have been 
 converted among us, nine have been added to our number, and 
 there is a prospect of more additions soon. Some in our congre- 
 gation are inquiring, " What they shall do to be saved," and we 
 are looking for a general outpouring of the Spirit. Several of our 
 members, on account of the hard times, have taken dismissions and 
 left the city. Gur present number is thirty seven. Gur monthly 
 meetings, weekly prayer meetings, and four meetings on the Sab- 
 bath, are regularly attended with interest and profit. A more im- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 367 
 
 portant field can hardly be found, and one that can wholly devote him- 
 self to the work, has great opportunities for winning souls to Christ. 
 Yours, in the bonds of the blessed gospel, 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 The Secretary of the Board presented Mr. Marks the following : 
 
 " Batavia, Dec. 30, 1836. 
 To all whom it may concern : — 
 
 This certifies that Elder David Marks' labors at Rochester 
 have been successful and satisfactory to this Board. But such 
 are the embarrassments of the Society, that we cannot redeem our 
 pledge to support him in Rochester, nor shall we be able to do any 
 thing tow^ards his support for several months to come. So we are 
 forced to the painful necessity of withdrawing that pledge, and 
 leaving him to depend on his own efforts, and those of individuals 
 who may feel interested. Though his embarrassments are great, 
 he has determined that it is his duty to remain in Rochester under 
 the direction of this Board. This, therefore, is to entreat all 
 who feel any interest in sustaining the mission at Rochester, to 
 render our missionary in that place all the immediate aid in their 
 power, in order to relieve him from his present necessities. 
 
 Done by order of the Executive Committee of the New York 
 Home Mission Society. 
 
 Phinehas Ford, Corresponding Secretary. ''' 
 Mr. Marks continued liis labors in Rochester through the win- 
 ter with some success, and also frequently preached with the 
 churches in the country. January 4, 1837, he preached the dedica- 
 tion sermon of the Free-will Baptist meeting house in Penfield, 
 from Haggai 2:7 — 9. He enjoyed remarkable freedom on this occa- 
 sion, and it was a season of most thrilling interest. 
 
 The embarrassments in the commercial world had now become 
 unexampled in the history of our country. Many of the oldest 
 and wealthiest firms in our cities had suffered a total wreck. Lit- 
 tle else than failures and pecuniary distresses were the subjects of 
 conversation. Mr. Marks, in common with others, met with severe 
 losses from unexpected and unforeseen causes. April 18, he wrote 
 the following : 
 
 " Whereas, my embarrassments have increased upon me almost 
 without measure and without limits, insomuch that I feel quite dis- 
 couraged, and ready to give up, and make an assignment of my 
 property in order to pay my debts, and get clear from embarrass- 
 ments, and whereas, this course might be very prejudicial to my 
 usefulness in the world, and whereas, in my present hurried state, 
 I can neither enjoy life nor be useful, I do most solemnly make 
 the following promises, that I may attain to the object of my exis- 
 
368 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 tence. 1. I will not give up under discouragements, nor permit 
 disappointments to wear upon my spirit, but do my duty in all 
 things, and be patient. 2. I will uniformly be very forbearing and 
 meek toward all men, and endeavor to preserve a happy frame of 
 mind, and, as much as possible, peace toward all men. 3. I will 
 steadily use all possible diligence, and strive in one year from this 
 day to clear myself from all debts, even though nothing should be 
 left me, and then enter the most rigid course of economy, in order 
 that my mind may be free for intellectual improvement and preach- 
 ing the gospel the rest of my life. 4. I will never contract anoth- 
 er debt to the amount of a shilling, unless I become so straitened 
 that I cannot honestly avoid it. This I will do, that, as a minister 
 of Jesus Christ, I may be free and not be entangled in the affairs 
 of this life. 5. I will be content to be poor for Christ's sake, as 
 long as I live, and as fast as I get any thing, and I can honestly de- 
 vote it to advance religion, I will do so. The glory of God shall 
 be my only object and aim." 
 
 He made repeated but unsuccessful efforts to extricate himself 
 from his embarrassments. Still he continued to meet his engage- 
 ments till about the middle of June. In the mean time he wrote to 
 Mr. Burr on this subject as follows ; 
 
 " Rochester, June 18, 1837. 
 
 My dear brother, 
 
 * * * Disappointment has succeeded diappoint- 
 ment, and one misfortune has followed another, as though they 
 * loved each other's steps,' till I am brought into deep trials, and 
 causes, unforeseen by mortal eyes, have entangled me in embar- 
 rassments from which I had always determined to keep myself free. 
 I never entered into business so long as I saw any possibility of 
 sustaining the mission in Rochester by any other course. I did it 
 in the fear of God, and with as much conviction of duty as I ever 
 appeared before an assembly to address them on the concerns of 
 eternity. Could I have foreseen the present commercial distress, 
 I should have left Rochester, when the Board informed me that 
 they could not aid me ; or had I not been so unsuspecting of wick- 
 edness in those with whom I have had to do, I might have escaped 
 many of my present difficulties. No, my brother, whatever may 
 be the opinions of others, or the fears of my friends, I know, and 
 my Heavenly Father knows, that I have not been worldly minded. 
 I have never sought for this world, and in the arrangement of all 
 my temporal affairs, my eye has been single to God's glory. 
 
 You are doubtless as well acquainted with the pressure of the 
 times as I am. In this city it is dreadful. The most wealthy and 
 responsible have failed in meeting their engagements, and several 
 
DAVID MARKS. 369 
 
 have had their notes protested at the bank. The suffering among 
 the poor in this city is dreadful. Provisions are extremely high, 
 [flour was then $10 per barrel, and potatoes $1,25 per bushel,] 
 and all business has nearly ceased. 
 
 I am now settling up my concerns. I expect to pay my debts, 
 and when I have done that, I do not expect to have any thing left 
 whatever. Amidst it all, I feel peace of conscience and calmness 
 of soul. I have nearly all my life been acquainted with pri- 
 vations. I have known the pangs of suffering from want, and yet, 
 if it is the will of my Heavenly Father, I can bid poverty a cheer- 
 ful welcome, for I have been brought to this, while I have been 
 walking in what I believed to be the path of duty, though I will 
 not say I have not misjudged. Until recently, I have hoped to 
 save something, but I have come to the conclusion to sell every 
 article I possess to pay my debts, and in these times they must go 
 much below their value ; but I must be released from worldly 
 anxieties, and when I get liberated once more, I think it will be 
 my duty to remain so. The cares I have had for a few years past, 
 If continued, will soon carry me to my grave. * * * * You 
 wrote about my taking an agency for the New Hampshire Anti- 
 Slavery Society, but I am not fit for any agency. All the ener- 
 gies of my mind have been so long on the stretch, that I do not 
 think that I should be useful in any such sphere. I do not know 
 what I shall do. I do not expect to be able to travel much, as for 
 years past, the exposures consequent on travelling, have invariably 
 brought me on a sick bed. I have felt as though the church here 
 must not go down — ^but for a season past, such dark clouds have 
 hung over my prospects, that I have at times almost despaired. 
 Still God has been with us in our meetings, and of late, we have 
 frequently had tokens of mercy and interpositions of Providence, 
 which have been too plain to be misunderstood. At our last meet- 
 ing, we had five applications for membership, which have been re- 
 ceived. Our prospects as a church are good, if a preacher could 
 be sustained. We are well united, have a Bible class, and a Sab- 
 bath school. The Home Mission Board treat me with much af- 
 fection and kindness. They sympathize with me in my afflictions, 
 and if they could, would gladly relieve me. 
 
 As a nation, I know not what is before us, but it appears to me 
 that days of greater trouble are at hand. I am expecting them. Grod 
 is going to wean his children from the world, and disappoint their 
 ambitious schemes. O, my brother, may we be prepared for the 
 day of trial. May we labor wholly for God, and fight manfully in 
 the day of battle. I long to see you, and pour out my whole heart 
 to you, but if we never more meet in this world, I trust we shall 
 in the abodes of unsullied purity, where the gales of adversity 
 
370 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 cease to blow, and ' the wicked cease from troubling.' Remember 
 me, especially in your prayers to Almighty God. There is rest for 
 the weary in heaven, blessed be God. FarewelL 
 
 Your affectionate brother, David Marks." 
 
 In the latter part of June, Mr. Marks received a letter from a 
 friend, who frankly expressed his fear that an eagerness to get rich 
 had induced him to enter into business, and had brought on his 
 misfortunes. Some extracts from his reply to this letter are given, 
 as illustrative of the spirit with which he bore the censures of 
 friends, and received reproofs which he thought were unmerited. 
 
 " I thank you for your Christian admonitions and your kind ad- 
 vice. I cannot say that I have not erred in engaging in worldly 
 business, but if I have, it has been through mistaken views of duty. 
 It was not inclination that led me to it, for I never did any thing 
 in my life, that was so contrary to my feelings, and so crossing to 
 my disposition. It was the farthest thing possible from my ambi- 
 tion to be called a * man of business.' * * * Years ago, I 
 gave up the world, and consecrated myself and every thing I had 
 to God, and ever since, so far as I know, I have acted on this prin- 
 ciple of entire consecration. My conscience bears me witness, that 
 neither love of ease, wealth, fame, or honor, have ever since actu- 
 ated my course. All the value I have set on property has been 
 only proportionate to the ability it gives its possessor to extend the 
 influence of the Redeemer's kingdom. Aside from this, I have 
 looked upon poverty as the happiest state. Neither have I thought 
 that a Christian, in this day of benevolent enterprise, is excusable 
 in retaining any more property in his hands than a bare compe- 
 tence, except in such cases, as he has evidence that he can best glo- 
 rify God in so doing. As for myself, I have had to provide for a 
 sickly sister, in obedience to my mother's dying injunction. My 
 aged father is very infirm and in extreme poverty, and as he gave 
 six years of my time (from the age of fifteen to twenty-one) to the 
 church, I have thought that filial claims required me to assist him. 
 Considering my duty as connected with these circumstances, I have 
 thought that I should be more free from care, and in a situation for 
 greater usefulness, by retaining in my hands a part of the goods 
 committed to my charge. When I returned here from N. England, 
 as I was nearly worn out with cares, anxieties, and responsibili- 
 ties, I thought it would be right for me to retire to some obscure 
 corner, where I could enjoy quiet and retirement, and still devote 
 what remained of my shattered faculties to the cause of God. I 
 had selected, in my own mind, the London quarterly meeting in 
 Upper Canada, as the place of my comparative seclusion, and it 
 was with inexpressible delight that I was anticipating the sweets of 
 
DAVID MABKS* 371 
 
 rest. But my brethren In this yearly meeting insisted that I should 
 come to Rochester. They spread out before me the necessity of 
 our having a church in this city and promised to sustain me. It 
 was very crossing to give up my scheme of rest, but as I had not 
 for years dared to confer with flesh and blood, where the advance- 
 ment of the cause was concerned, and viewing myself a servant of 
 the church, I finally consented, thinking at the same time that if I 
 had no care for my own support, I should be freer than I had ever 
 before been since I commenced preaching the gospel. So I went 
 to Rochester." ****** 
 
 Mr. Marks again made a brief entry in his journal, as follows : 
 " July tS, 1837, I have been exceedingly embarrassed in worldly 
 affairs, and for the first time have been unable to pay my debts, 
 though in fifteen years I have contracted debts to the amount of 
 S30,000, and never to this time have I had a note protested, nor 
 have I suffered any note to become due, without previously obtain- 
 ing an extension, except in two instances of forgetting small sums. 
 I had ever considered it immoral to fail in the least engagement ; 
 and finding myself thus circumstanced, on the 15th of June, I met 
 a council which I had previously requested, consisting of the exec- 
 utive committee of the New York Home Mission Society, and sev- 
 eral ministers and brethren in the Monroe quarterly meeting. I 
 gave a full disclosure, in writing, to this council of all my financial 
 concerns, and plans to pay my debts. In view of the existing 
 commercial embarrassments, they unanimously advised me to make 
 an assignment of my property for the benefit of my creditors. I 
 concluded to take their advice, and, June 23, I made an assignment 
 to Messrs. Hoyt and Porter, Christian gentlemen of high standing 
 and integrity of character, with whom I had had much business in 
 the book line. I gave up all, not reserving a single dollar's worth 
 of household furniture, or of any thing whatever, not excepting any 
 of the articles given Mrs. Marks by her parents, nor any of the 
 books or presents we had received from friends, nor a piece of land 
 [five acres] the use of which I had given to my poor aged father 
 in the infirmities of declining life. I wept about nothing of an 
 earthly nature except this latter circumstance and my library, 
 which had been gathered with much care, and had cost me about 
 seven hundred dollars. By this failure, I lost about four thousand 
 dollars, which had come to me by school teaching, publishing books, 
 the rise in the value of my little home in Canandaigua, and by my 
 wife. 
 
 But I do not mourn this loss so much on my own account. I have 
 no anxiety for my life, what I shall eat, what I shall drink, or 
 wherewithal I shall be clothed. But I most deplore the occasion 
 which my failure may give to the enemies of God, to injure the 
 
375 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 cause of religion. I have ever felt since I commenced preacliing, 
 that I would rather be burned at the stake, than do any thing to 
 hinder the success of the gospel. This reflection has sometimes so 
 distressed me, as to make me sick, and at other times, my agony 
 has been such, that had it not been for the consciousness of the in- 
 tegrity of heart in which I have walked before God, I fear that 
 reason would have tottered from her throne. As Messrs. Hoyt 
 and Porter wish me to act as their agent in settling up my affairs, 
 I hope, through the blessing of God, to be able to discharge all 
 my obligations honorably, though to do it I shall be subjected for a 
 time to worldly cares which are a burden to my soul. When I 
 found I could hold out no longer, I thought it would be wisdom to 
 call the members of the church together, that they might all take 
 letters, and then disband. I went to meeting on the following Sab- 
 bath, thinking of this course, and laboring under the most discour- 
 aging feelings, when, to my surprise, we had five applications for 
 church membership. I felt my heart filled with thankfulness, and 
 it seemed as though I was standing still to see the salvation of 
 God. I have come to the conclusion that it is my duty to do all I 
 can, while I remain here, to keep the church together, maintain its 
 discipline, and trust in God to send them a shepherd when I leave. 
 
 July 4, I left Rochester, and during five days following, preached 
 twice in Gorham, once in Jerusalem, and twice in Potter at the 
 Yates quarterly meeting, [formerly called Benton,] where I re- 
 ceived much kindness, and felt greatly comforted by the sympa- 
 thies of my brethren. Sabbath, July 9, I enjoyed a precious day 
 with the church in Rochester, and baptized two, who were added to 
 our number." 
 
 Mr. Marks continued his labors with the church in Rochester 
 till June, 1838. In addition to his usual Sabbath duties, he preached 
 a sermon early in the morning to the prisoners in the jail. During 
 the rest of the week, notwithstanding his cares, he usually spent a 
 portion of each day in religious study or religious visits. In Janu- 
 ary and February, he had the satisfaction of seeing considerable 
 interest manifested in his meetings, and several conversions. He 
 was frequently told by members of other churches, that individuals, 
 at different times, had been received into their communion, who, in 
 the relation of their religious experience, dated their awakening 
 under his preaching. It was a great comfort to him that souls 
 were converted through his instrumentality, although he was not 
 permitted to gather the fruits. 
 
 In the mean time, he was very diligent in settling his affairs, but 
 on account of the unprecedented scai'city of money, he had to sell 
 almost every thing at a great sacrifice. His Canandaigua proper- 
 ty, which, in the exchange he made, was valued at $2100, only 
 
DAVID MARKS. 373 
 
 brought him $355. He began to fear what he had little anticipa- 
 ted, that he should be left in debt, after he had disposed of every 
 article. This fear was subsequently realized, and he finally found 
 himself in debt at least one thousand or twelve hundred dollars 
 more than his means would pay. Painful as was this circumstance, 
 he did not sink under it, nor feel that he was absolved from his ob- 
 ligations to fulfill his engagements, because he had given up all he 
 possessed. He told his creditors, that if he lived, they might ex- 
 pect their pay. They generally manifested much sympathy for 
 him, and expressed their confidence that he had done as well as he 
 could in those troublous times, and in circumstances over which he 
 had no control. They told him not to deprive himself and family 
 of necessary comforts in order to pay them. Many that were ac- 
 quainted with facts, spoke in admiration of his course. One gen- 
 tleman in the city of high standing, who was a non-professor, said, 
 " Elder Marks is the noblest work of God, for he is an honest man." 
 These circumstances greatly soothed his spirit, and afforded him 
 unspeakable consolation ; and he felt deeply grateful that confidence 
 in his integrity was not lost. It was also with him a matter of 
 great thanksgiving, that none of his creditors were much distressed 
 by his failure. The following testimony to the uprightness of his 
 conduct in these days of trial, was received from his assignees a few 
 weeks after his death. 
 
 '' Rochester, Feb. 14, 1846. 
 
 Mrs. Marks. Dear Madam, 
 
 ***** We take this occasion to express 
 our sympathy with you in the bereavement you have experienced 
 in the loss of your excellent husband. And not only for your .sake, 
 but for society do we mourn in the loss of a good man and devout 
 Christian. He was truly an upright man. We knew him under 
 circumstances of temptation and trial, and found him a true man to 
 the last penny. * * * Samuel D. Porter, 
 
 David Hoyt." 
 
 In these dark days, Mr. Marks often had his spirits cheered 
 with consolatory letters from his Christian friends, similar to the 
 following. 
 
 " Greenville, R. L Oct. 5, 1837. 
 
 My Dear Brother Marks, 
 
 * * * * It is probably unnecessary for me to 
 attempt to console you, as I doubt not that the consolations of the 
 religion you have so long and so successfully preached to others are 
 afforded you in this time of distress. My dear brother and sister 
 are surely not among those with whom the consolations of God are 
 32 
 
 i .4 
 
^74 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 small. Those sermons, exhortations, and prayers, that have so of- 
 ten afforded comfort to hundreds of God's poor and afflicted people, 
 owed much of their efficiency to the rich experience you have had 
 of the abundant sources of comfort that the gospel opens to the dis- 
 consolate. Philosophy, unaided by religion, coolly tells us to sub- 
 mit to misfortunes because we cannot avoid them. The religion of 
 Jesus Christ does not leave us to this cold comfort, if comfort it 
 deserves to be called. No. It tells us a Father's hand is. concern- 
 ed in all our afflictions, that they shall work together for good to 
 those that love Grod. My dear brother and sister have not lost 
 their all, although misfortune has deprived them of choice earthly 
 blessings. No. Their rich treasure in heaven, infinitely more 
 valuable than all earthly possessions, remains secure and uninjured. 
 O blessed thought, soon you will enjoy that treasure. * * * ♦ 
 Your sympathizing brother, Elias Hutchins." 
 
 In the fall of 1837, Mr. Marks made the following entries in his 
 journal. 
 
 " Saturday, October 28. This city during the present week 
 has been the theatre of intense excitement, consequent upon one of 
 the most deliberate, bold, and daring assassinations that has ever 
 stained our land, the first murder ever known to have been com- 
 mitted in the county of Monroe. Wm. Lyman, a most estimable 
 citizen and a devoted Christian, a husband and a father, was shot 
 in our city last Monday night, a little past 9 o'clock, near his own 
 door. I have been to see his bereaved widow. Poor woman ! the 
 agony of her mind for a time almost made her frantic. The ex- 
 amination of Octavius Baron, (a Frenchman and a Catholic, only 
 eighteen years of age,) has occupied the whole of the week, and has 
 resulted in his commitment to prison for trial. During the examina- 
 tion he manifested the coldest indifference till toward the last, when 
 he betrayed some emotions. I accompanied him to his cell, which he 
 entered with seeming indifference. I inquired of him his feeUngs. 
 He replied that he felt as though others equally guilty were about 
 to escape. I exhorted him to speedy repentance and to seek the 
 mercy of Grod, when his eyes became suffused with tears, and 
 showed that he had at least one spark of feeling. But it is dread- 
 ful to think of a youth only eighteen years of age so hardened in 
 crime. 
 
 Nov. 4. Thirty two years of my vain life are this day numbered. 
 Nearly seventeen of these have been spent in the ministry. But, 
 alas ! how unprofitable they have been ! O precious and compas- 
 sionate Savior, forgive thy poor unworthy servant all the sins of his 
 past life, the sin of impatience — ^the sin of vain thoughts — the sin 
 ^f dogmatism, and do thou give him grace, and wisdom, and perse- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 375 
 
 verance, which shall enable him to act in all things as the image, 
 and likeness, and representative of the great, the everlasting God. 
 O do thou, blessed Redeemer, aid thy servant, that he may from 
 this time discipline his own heart and conduct agreeably to the 
 Holy Scriptures, and his future years be abundantly useful. 
 Amen. 
 
 Sabbath, Dec. 10, I preached three times, attended a prayer 
 meeting, Bible class, and Sabbath school. Two were added to our 
 number, one of whom I baptized. 
 
 Dec. 29 — 31, I attended the Monroe quarterly meeting at Ken- 
 dall, having walked twenty seven miles. It was a precious season. 
 Eighteen kneeled for prayer, and one was hopefully converted. 
 Brethren were very kind, and gave me several dollars ; and one 
 brother carried me home. Much excitement has been prevailing 
 in Rochester, as well as in many other places, on account of an in- 
 surrection in Canada. It is feared that a bloody civil war wiU be 
 the result, and that the United States will be involved in it." 
 
 May 27 — June 7, Mr. Marks spent mostly in attendance at the 
 trial of Octavius Baron. The evidence against the prisoner was 
 conclusive, the jury brought in the verdict of guilty, and he was 
 sentenced to be hung the 25th of the ensuing July. Through the 
 whole trial, he seemed the most indifferent of any present, and often, 
 during the adjournments of the court, danced in his chains. The 
 agony of his parents, sister, and the miserable victim of his licen- 
 tiousness, whom he said he had married, seemed intense. At the 
 time appointed, he suffered the execution of the sentence pro- 
 nounced upon him, manifesting to the last the same hardness of 
 heart. As he was about to be launched into eternity, he grasped 
 a crucifix, which it was said he held till death had done its work. 
 
 Mr. Marks closed his labors in Rochester in June, 1838. The 
 following in relation to this circumstance, with some other incidents, 
 is copied from his correspondence in the Morning Star. 
 
 " Having been informed that my brethren in Ohio were expect- 
 ing me to visit them, I would say to them, through the Star, that I 
 have long desired to see them once more in the flesh, and that for 
 months previous to my leaving Rochester, I had much conflict of 
 mind in deciding whether it was my duty to continue my labors in 
 the city or comply with their kind and often repeated requests. 
 Severe and laborious had been my toils in Rochester, and the pain 
 of soul it caused me to think of abandoning the fruits of those toils, 
 was such as I had never before known, and I concluded it was my 
 duty to remain as long as I could obtain the bare necessities of life. 
 Since the organization of the church, between sixty and seventy 
 had united with it, but in consequence of the pressure and the sus- 
 pension of business following it, several had been obliged to leave 
 
d76i MEMOIRS OF 
 
 the city. My health had so declined the past winter, that consid- 
 erable of the time I was unable to preach. For many months I 
 had depended on my own efforts for my support, but this resource 
 was now cut off. My companion engaged in teaching till her health 
 was so poor, that in the spring she was obliged to relinquish it. 
 The door seemed now effectually closed against continuing my stay 
 in Rochester, and I now felt that if the church lost its visibility my 
 garments were clear. Its members had known something of the 
 trials of my situation, and had often extended to me the balm of 
 their sympathy, the only relief they were able to afford. When I 
 communicated to them my decision, they acquiesced with tearful 
 eyes, saying, that in my present destitution, it would be cruelty to 
 urge my longer stay ; but they knew not what to do. They had 
 looked to other churches, and their home was nowhere else. They 
 finally agreed to sustain the visibility of the church, and to support 
 two prayer meetings weekly, in the hope that soon aid would be 
 granted them from some quarter. 
 
 In the month of May, I had a violent attack of jaundice, which 
 some of the time confined me to my bed. My skin became about 
 as dark as that of a mulatto, and my friends were apprehensive that 
 my disease would terminate fatally. Its violent symptoms, howev- 
 er, finally yielded to active medical treatment, so that on the 15th 
 of June, we left Rochester, and went to Byron, where the Holland 
 Purchase yearly meeting was in session. I then proposed going to 
 Canada, and immediately after my return, to the state of Ohio. 
 But my brethren so strenuously and earnestly protested against my 
 intended course, and seemed so anxious for me to labor as an evan- 
 gelist among the churches of western New York, that I partly 
 consented to delay my visit to Ohio till another season. My health 
 was such that I could preach little, and my labors could probabl}'^ 
 be of very little use any where. The nervous irritability of my 
 system subjected me at intervals to much mental prostration, and 
 occasionally to depression of spirits. 
 
 From Byron we took the canal to Royalton on our way to Can- 
 ada. Here again I was confined by sickness two weeks. A phy- 
 sician, whom I consulted, reiterated the often repeated advice of 
 former physicians, that if I ever intended to recover, I must lay 
 aside all mental labor, such as reading, writing, preaching, &c., 
 avoid all conversation that would require any effort of mind, and at 
 the same time take as much bodily exercise as my strength would 
 permit. As this course would for the present deprive me of all 
 prospect of usefulness to the church, the thoughts of it were painful 
 to my feelings, but being convinced that the continuance of my life 
 depended upon it, I commenced faithfully following his directions. 
 I grew better, but not daring to proceed on my journey, I conclu- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 377 
 
 ded to spend a few days in Boston, Erie Co. Leaving Royalton 
 for this purpose, on the 4th of July, I could not well resist the 
 temptation to stop at the New York State Anti-Slavery conven- 
 tion, which was that day to commence its sitting in the Methodist 
 chapel in Lockport. Here, a little more than two years ago, a pii- 
 vate lecturer was mobbed for advocating the abolition of slavery. 
 Now not even the faintest whisper, ^ I fear there will be a mob/ 
 was heard. It was to me a gratifying circumstance that the con- 
 vention was in a Methodist chapel, as the influence of so many in 
 this denomination was on the side of the oppressor. O, thought 
 I, could the illustrious Wesley arisQ from the dead, and speak to 
 his American brethren, how would he show them their sins, while, 
 as in the days of his flesh, he would thunder peal after peal on the 
 conscience of the slaveholder, and cry aloud in his ears, ' Render 
 unto all their dues. * * Escape for your life ! Regard not money ! 
 AVhataver you lose, lose not your soul ! Immediately quit this 
 horrid trade ! Instantly deliver yourselves from blood-guiltiness I 
 Your hands, your bed, your furniture, your house, your lands are 
 stained with blood. Surely it is enough. Accumulate no more 
 guilt!' 
 
 Some distinguished abolitionists were present. One of the num- 
 ber was Henry B. Stanton. He spoke on a resolution, saying that 
 the declaration of independence breathes the very spirit and princi- 
 ples of abolitionists. While commenting on the declaration, he came 
 to the clause, ' But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pur- 
 suing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them 
 to absolute despotism, it is their rights it is their duty, to throw off" 
 such government,' he said the resolution was not correct. That 
 clause in the constitution allowed M^ai\ It was revolutionary. But 
 it was the doctrine of the declaration, not of abolitionists. They 
 were engaged in a moral conflict, a w^ar of principles. No blood- 
 stained banner waved over their heads. No widow's groans, no 
 orphan's tears, no garments rolled in blood, marked their path. In a 
 manner entirely his own, he alluded to the persecuted abolitionists, 
 the mobs at Boston and New York, the burning of Liberty Tem- 
 ple in Philadelphia, the grave and future glory of Lovejoy, and' 
 closed his remarks in a burst of powerful and impassioned elo- 
 quence. The assembly seemed electrified. An amendment was 
 immediately proposed, which passed unanimously, cutting off the 
 approval of that part of the declaration, which declared it to be the 
 right and duty of the oppressed, to throw off their yoke. 
 
 Leaving Lockport, we went to Buffalo, and thence to Boston, 
 
 where my good friend. Deacon Truman Carey, gave us a very 
 
 hearty and affectionate welcome, and told us to make his house our 
 
 home as long as we pleased. I remained here three weeks, follow- 
 
 82* 
 
378 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ing the prescriptions of the physician, excepting that I preached on 
 the Sabbath, and wrote to some correspondents." 
 
 The following is taken from, a copy of one of the letters written 
 during this period, to Mr. Phillips, missionary in India, from whom 
 intelligence had been received that his wife (formerly Mrs. Beede) 
 had entered upon eternal scenes. 
 
 " Boston, N. Y. July 19, 1838. 
 
 My dear brother, 
 
 * * * In April last, on taking a copy of the Star 
 from the P. O. at Rochester, I read that for which I was not pre- 
 pared — the death of dear sister Phillips ! For a while, I could not 
 realize it, but as the truth of the painful intelligence rushed upon 
 me, I was quite overcome, and could not refrain from weeping 
 aloud. "When I met my dear companion, I was reminded of your 
 bereavement and solitary situation in a land of heathen strangers, 
 while I wa3 blessed with the wife of my youth in a land of friends. 
 Then we fell on each other's necks, and sobbed for a long time. 
 Our sorrow was not altogether for dear Mary, who, we doubted 
 not, was enjoying sweet rest beyond the toils, and pains, and sor- 
 rows of life, but for our dear brother Phillips. We supposed that 
 the heart-rending tidings of the death of both your parents had al- 
 ready reached you, and even then was weighing down your spirits. 
 Since very remarkable bereavements had already become your lot, 
 we were not looking for one still more heavy and cutting than all 
 the rest. My dear companion, who you know was much attached 
 to your Mary, read the short painful notice in the Star. Like the 
 friends of Job, we sat a long time in silence, then we kneeled and 
 poured out our supplications to high Heaven in your behalf. We 
 were cheered, however, by the reflection that-^ou mourn not as 
 those who mourn without hope, and that religion can assuage the 
 sorrows of the soul. Yes, my dear brother, a firm trust in the 
 Lord can fortify us against those bereavements which are more 
 painful than even death itself. The reflection that the time we 
 have on earth is very short, and that the tender ties which bind us 
 to our families and friends, were only formed to be dissolved at the 
 touch of death, should reconcile us to look upon our friends as but 
 lent favors, not to be retained always, but only during the pleasure 
 of the loaner. Hence we should look at death until we become ac- 
 quainted with its worst features, comprehend its power, and arQ 
 prepared to resign ourselves, or our dearest friends, to its iron 
 grasp. 
 
 It was once my lot to comfort and beguile your Mary ofv her 
 tears, when her dear Beede was laid in the grave, and I had hoped 
 while she was in India that I should have the privilege of attempt- 
 
DAVID MAiRKS. 379 
 
 ing to comfort lier in her labors. I recount the time since we 
 parted, and am astonished at the swiftness with which more than 
 three years have passed away. I cannot refrain from tears, when 
 I think how little time I have had to hold communion with you 
 across the great watery waste that separates us. But, however 
 neglectful of my duty you may judge me to have been, I acknowl- 
 edge with gratitude that you, and indeed all my missionary friends, 
 have been faithful and kind to me in this respect, for myself and 
 wife have received, in all, ten letters from India. We have felt a 
 deeper interest in these communications than in any others we ever 
 received, and after forwarding interesting extracts for publication 
 in the Morning Star, we have filed them among our choicest papers. 
 One of the subjects on which you dwelt in your first letter is the 
 wretched and heart-sickening appearance of the heathen of Hin- 
 doostan. Doubtless the first sight of them made an impression on 
 your mind, of which we can form a very faint idea. But though 
 we have not seen what you have, yet from the Scriptures we have 
 a frightful picture of the sad and wretched condition of those who 
 * hasten after other gods.* For years, I have been fully convinced, 
 that neither science nor civilization, equal rights or much temporal 
 happiness, can be secured to men without the aid of religion — the 
 pure religion of the blessed Bible. And it is equally certain, that 
 the blessed God has not proposed to send men the gospel by any 
 miraculous power ; but through the instrumentality of the church, 
 and by their using the ordinary means which God has put into 
 their hands. Hence, our dear Savior forbade that state of mind 
 which is always prompting us to seek a sign from heaven, when in 
 fact the word of God is nigh us, and is sufficiently plain and con- 
 clusive to ensure our faith, if we will take the trouble to search 
 faithfully for truth. I have seen the time when I anxiously sought 
 for signs and wonders. I thank God that I have been perfectly 
 cured of such desires, by the consideration that He who made man 
 and perfectly understood his nature, and what will influence him 
 best, has granted miracles very sparingly, and only on the most 
 important occasions, such as establishing the divinity of certain dis- 
 pensations, &c. Doubtless the reason is, that miracles, repeated 
 frequently, would become so common as to lose their influence. 
 Hence, God has not made it the order of his government to depart 
 from the laws of nature, to advance his cause for the time being, at 
 the expense of future generations. Although his mode of govern- 
 ment imposes upon all men, and especially upon Christians and 
 ministers, much study and labor in making examination of the 
 records and evidences of divine truth, yet it exhibits an amount of 
 wisdom sufficient to astonish even the angels of heaven. * * * 
 Your affectionate brother in Christ, D. Marks." 
 
380 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 CHAPTER XXVII. 
 
 Particvlars of Mr. Marks^ Travels and Labors, inosUy in J^ew 
 York, from July, 1838, to Apnl, 1840. 
 
 The following is copied from Mr. Marks' correspondence in the 
 Morning Star: 
 
 " About the last of July, my health having considerably improv- 
 ed, we resumed our journey to Canada, crossed the Niagara at 
 Black Rock, and as we proceeded down the river, passed several 
 houses that had been perforated with balls during the late insurrec- 
 tion. At the Falls, we found an encampment of eight hundred 
 soldiers, who were marched from New Brunswick during the last 
 winter, to aid in quelling the rebellion. We were permitted to vis- 
 it any part of the army's camp. Their tents were large and neat, 
 and the officers and soldiers were very civil. They told us heart- 
 rending stories of their privations and sufferings in marching, dur- 
 ing the severity of last winter, through the deep unbroken snows of 
 the wilderness, where they came near perishing. Alas ! the mis- 
 eries of war are indeed untold ! We pursued our way to Zorra, 
 found the country in a quiet state, and were treated with much 
 hospitality and kindness. In August, I visited the churches in the 
 London quarterly meeting, and found their state to be just what 
 might be expected, aft^r so much of the blighting spirit of war had 
 swept over the land. Several of the brethren had removed to the 
 United States, and others were preparing to follow. A council had 
 been appointed to meet in Southwold, the second of July, to ordain 
 two brethren to the work of the ministry; but on the first day of 
 the month, the whole province was thrown into commotion, by a 
 rumor that many thousands of the inhabitants were secretly organ- 
 ized whh abundance of arms and ammunition, and would be joined 
 by men from the United States to take the province on the fourth 
 of the month. This occasioned the calling out of the militia, the 
 fencing up of roads and bridges, and the stopping of travellers, so 
 that the council did not assemble. I was now requested to meet 
 wdth them. I did so, and we had a very interesting season. Both 
 of the brethren that were ordained, appeared to be ministers of 
 promise. In September, we returned to Boston, N. Y., where we 
 arrived after an absence of six weeks, thankful to our Heavenly 
 Father for our preservation, and for the rich blessing of improved 
 health." 
 
 Mr. Marks, with much joy, now resumed his labors as an evan- 
 gelist in the Holland Purchase yearly meeting. He had also con- 
 sented to take an assistant general agency for the Book Concern, 
 
DAVID MARKS. 381 
 
 among the western churches. Sept. 22 and 23, he attended the 
 Chatauque quarterly meeting in Arkwright. Several were awaken- 
 ed, and one professed to be converted. During the remainder of 
 the month, he preached in Cherry Creek, Ellington, Collins, and 
 Springville. In the early part of October, he labored several 
 days in China, generally preaching twice daily, besides holding 
 prayer and inquiry meetings, and spending two or three hours in 
 active manual labor. The blessing of God attended the preaching 
 of his truth, the church was revived, many of the impenitent were 
 awakened, and about twenty professed to turn to the Lord, most 
 of whom w^ere baptized. Some of these meetings were awfully 
 solemn. In one of them, a Congregationalist minister related a 
 thrilling account of the death of one of his classmates in Lane Sem- 
 inary, Cincinnati, aged about seventeen years. This relation great- 
 ly affected Mr. Marks, especially as he knew and highly esteemed 
 several relatives of the deceased. At the close of the meeting, he 
 requested the minister to give him^the statements he had made, in 
 writing. He did so. The account, with the addition of some facts 
 subsequently gathered, was substantially as follows : 
 
 " This youth resided in Rochester during the great revival in 
 that city under the labors of Mr. C. G. Finney, and at that time 
 was the subject of deep convictions. He visited Mr. Finney, ac- 
 knowledged himself a sinner, but on being asked, if he would re- 
 pent then, he said he would not. Mr. Finney said to him in much 
 faithfulness, ' Young man, you will come to some dreadful end.* 
 He replied, * I am not afraid of it.' He resisted his convictions, 
 and finally resorted to the objections usually urged by open infidels. 
 His manners were gentle, his moral character unexceptionable, and 
 his mind was of the very highest order. But he loved to use his 
 objections against Christianity, in which he manifested uncommon 
 skill. He was sent to Lane Seminary, that he might prosecute 
 his studies under a holy influence. One day, after the cholera com- 
 menced its ravages in Cincinnati, he was in a shop where the work- 
 men were making coffins. He asked, what should the shortness and 
 uncertainty of life teach us ? One answered, * While we have life, to 
 prepare for death.' ' No,' he replied, ' it teaches us to enjoy life 
 while we have it.' The next day he was attacked by the pesti- 
 lence, but remedies were applied so promptly that he was restored 
 to comfort, with a good prospect of a speedy and perfect recovery. 
 In this state, he was sitting in my room, when some rice was 
 brought him, of which he ate too much, and suffered a relapse. 
 The first indication of relapse was sudden. He exclaimed, ' I can 
 see nothing.' I looked upon him, his eyes were open and rolling 
 — his cheeks were blanched— his lips purple. I took him and bore 
 him to his bed. From the first, those of us who had experience in 
 
382 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 the disease, had no hope that he could be raised again. An effort 
 was made to direct him to the Savior, without distracting him by 
 informing him of his desperate bodily circumstances. Said a friend, 
 [Theodore Weld,] as he handed him a glass of water, ' Jesus 
 Clu'ist offers you the water of eternal life, ten thousand times more 
 freely than I offer you this water.' But liis stout heart rose up 
 against the kind attempt. * Let me alone,' said he, ' not a word of 
 that. Let me try my experiment. Infidelity is true after all.' It 
 is probable that at this time he was deceived with the hope of re- 
 covery. Though he repelled all Christian conversation, if the 
 friend attempted to withdraw, he would say, ' Come back. Come 
 back.' It was manifest that a dreadful struggle was agitating his 
 bosom, between the pride of commitment on one hand, and the fear 
 of hell on the other. 
 
 While lying in this condition, one of the theological students 
 came in, to whom he turned, and calling him by name, said : ' You 
 have never given me the evidence that there is an eternal 
 hell.' He replied, ' There is no time and no need that I should 
 do so now, for I perceive that you believe that truth.' He accus- 
 ed him of not having been faithful to him in religious matters. He 
 told him he had been faithful, but said he, ' You would not hear.' 
 At length the physician having taxed all his skill, approached the 
 bed, saying to the attendant, ' This is the last portion I shall give 
 him. If this fails, all hope is gone !' It did fail, and then one of the 
 students addressed him thus : ' We have now done what we can to 
 save your Hfe. All hope is now past. You must die. Prepare to 
 meet God. You will probably be in eternity in half an hour.' 
 At this announcement he became outrageous and blasphemed. 
 * Oh !' said he, ^ I wont die. Have I come here to Ohio to die !' 
 And then, his shrieks and blasphemies were horrible. He grasp- 
 ed the bed clothes as if to hold back from death, and in this concH- 
 tion, about nine hours from the time of his relapse, without a parti- 
 cle of light or hope, his soul was taken away. 
 
 May the living be warned. May those that are tampering with 
 infidelity here see its end. Affectionately yours, 
 
 October 20 — 22. Mr. Marks attended the Genesee quarterly 
 meeting, and presented the following resolution on religion and 
 politics, which passed : ' Resolved, that Christianity claims a di- 
 rect and minute control over all the conduct of its disciples ; there- 
 fore, in our opinion, professed Christians cannot, in any case, vote to 
 put an unjust or wicked man into office, without transgressing the law 
 of God, which saith. He that ruleth over men must be just, rul- 
 ing in the fear of the Lord." He remained in Warsaw nine days, 
 attending meetings daily, and laboring in connection with the pas- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 883 
 
 tor of the church. Several were awakened, fifteen of whom pror 
 fessed to find the Savior. Ten of these were members of the Sab- 
 bath school. 
 
 In the early part of November, Mr. Marks preached several 
 days in Pike, in a neighborhood called " Campbell lull." The 
 church in this place was without a pastor, few in number, not ex- 
 ceeding twelve or fifteen who resided near enough together to be 
 able to meet in weekly meetings. Their place of worship was a 
 small school house, and as few could be accommodated, the congre- 
 gation was of necessity small. Still about twenty professed to be 
 converted, seventeen of whom united with the church. These con- 
 verts appeared unusually strong and stable. During the progress 
 of the work, one brother, who was a very faithful Christian, saw 
 seven of his family bow to Christ, and follow their Sa\dor in the 
 ordinance of baptism. November 10 and 11, Mr. Marks attended 
 the Erie quarterly meeting in Collins, and during the latter part of 
 the month, preached a few times in Hume. In December he held 
 a few meetings in Springville. Several appeared anxious for sal- 
 vation and some were converted. But sectarian spirit blighted in 
 the bud, the prospect of a powerful revival. He next held a three 
 days' meeting in Nashville with a Calvinistic Baptist church. There 
 had been no revival here for years. Great attention was given to 
 the word, and several professed submission to Christ. Dec. 22. 
 He attended the Chatauque quarterly meeting in Villanovia, where 
 a precious season was enjoyed. 
 
 In January, 1839, he held a protracted meeting in Boston, Erie 
 Co. This had long been a strong hold of Universalism. Sever- 
 al aged persons had recently died, not one of whom left an evi- 
 dence of a well grounded hope. The church was in a low state 
 and seemed to have little faith that God would revive his work. 
 After a few sermons, however, great seriousness rested upon the 
 assemblies, and the impenitent began to inquire what they should 
 do to be saved. The altar for prayer was soon crowded, and one 
 and another found peace in believing, till about thirty profess- 
 ed to be born again. Among the converts were several children 
 under twelve years of age, M^hose zeal and activity in laboring for 
 the conversion of their associates, was a loud rebuke to many pro- 
 fessors. One of these children expressed great anxiety for the con- 
 version of a younger brother. He begged of him to repent of his 
 sins, and give his heart to God ; and when his brother yielded and 
 was converted, he was so affected that he clapped his hands, and 
 exclaimed, " Glory to God." On another occasion, one of his 
 cousins, a little boy seven years of age, was brought by his pray- 
 ers and conversation to feel that he was very wicked and ought to 
 repent. The little boy, like the grey headed sinner, wanted to put 
 
384 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 it off a little longer, or, in other words, till he became older. But 
 the faithful little convert begged that he would not do so, and urg- 
 ed as a very reasonable and powerful motive, " You don't know 
 that you will live till another morning." These children, to the 
 number of eight or ten, were very faithful in their duties as church 
 members, and exemplary in their conduct, and when a year after- 
 wards Mr. Marks visited them, not one of them had backslidden, 
 and they were reckoned among the most faithful, devoted Chris- 
 tians in the church. 
 
 In the month of February, Mr. Marks preached a few times in 
 Hamburg, and saw some turn to God. He also attended the Cat- 
 araugus quarterly meeting in China, the Erie quarterly meeting in 
 Ashford, and the Chatauque in Portland. In these meetings, he 
 labored to enlist the brethren and ministry to act more efficiently 
 in the various benevolent enterprises, and consecrate themselves 
 with renewed zeal to the work of saving souls. He remained in 
 Portland a few days, and saw some prospect of a revival, but sec- 
 tarian and pro-slavery feelings seemed to throw powerful obstacles 
 in the way of a general work. 
 
 In the early part of March, he went to Rochester, and having 
 carefully guarded the contributions he had received in the places 
 where he had labored, and also what he had earned in his agency, 
 and in the sale of religious books, he had saved something of a 
 sum. Fifty dollars of this sum he appropriated to the use of his 
 father, and the remainder, with much satisfaction, he now paid to 
 his creditors, carefully making a dividend exactly proportioned to 
 their dues. He next attended the Penfield qnarterly meeting, and 
 on returning to Rochester, found his companion, whom he had left 
 there, very ill. Her health, which had been declining for some 
 years, had now entirely failed, and most of the time, for nearly the 
 ensuing three months, he watched by her bedside, while the lamp 
 of life seemed just flickering in its socket. Nothing could exceed 
 his kind care and affectionate attentions during this period, while, to 
 a great extent, he performed both the duties of nurse and watcher. 
 The anguish of his mind during this season of affliction was often 
 very great. April 11, he wrote thus to Mr. Burr : 
 
 " Though I have not been a stranger to affliction, a trial has 
 come upon me, compared with which other trials seem as nothing. 
 I have reason to fear that God is about to take from me my dear 
 companion. She whose labors to aid me in the ministry for more 
 than nine years have been well known to you and thousands in 
 our denomination is very sick. She has been confined about one 
 month with nervous debility, and is now so low that there is not 
 sufficient life for a fever to prey upon. She has every attention 
 that medical skill and the kindness of warm friends can secure.'* 
 
DAVID MARKS. 385 
 
 Mrs. Marks at length began to amend, but so slowly as to be 
 scarcely perceptible, and it was about twenty weeks from her first 
 attack, before it was deemed prudent for her to leave the city. 
 The liberality of Christian friends in these days of affliction, great- 
 ly affected as well as comforted the heart of her husband. Miss 
 Emily E. F. Winsor of Greenville, R. I., (a grand daughter of 
 Judge Foster, who was converted under Mr. Marks' labors in 1830,) 
 sent or caused to be sent him fifty dollars. The conductors of the 
 Book Concern also sent him fifty dollars, and other Christian 
 friends ninety-five. These sums met Mrs. Marks' sickness bills 
 within five dollars. 
 
 During Mr. Marks' detention in Rochester, a very interesting 
 revival of religion was progressing under the labors of Mr. Knapp, 
 the celebrated Baptist evangelist. He attended several of the 
 meetings, was much interested in the preacher's bold and lucid 
 manner of presenting truth, and took notes of about thirty of his 
 sermons, which he preserved as a choice treasure. It was believed 
 that in this work four or five hundred were converted to God. 
 Among them were persons of every age and class, from the wealthy 
 and intelligent gentleman, down to the most confirmed drunkard and 
 devotee of licentiousness. Most of the pupils of the dancing and 
 waltzing schools in the city were among the converts. One infidel, 
 on being converted, came forward and publicly gave up " Paine's 
 Age of Reason," and confessed that, in his enmity to God, he had 
 burned the Bible, and had attended public worship but once in 
 twenty-seven years ! 
 
 May 18, Mr. Marks attended the Genesee quai-terly meeting in 
 Batavia, where he received much sympathy and kindness from his 
 Christian friends. They presented him with a horse and carriage. 
 The latter he continued to use while he lived. Since the assign- 
 ment of his property, he had been obliged either to walk to his ap- 
 pointments or hire a conveyance, or depend on brethren to send 
 for him. About this period, he made an estimate from his daily 
 accounts of receipts and expenses, and found that in the nineteen 
 years that he had been preaching, he had expended S9000, only 
 $3000 of which had been given him. This estimate included the 
 sums he had given for charitable and religious purposes, but did 
 not include his recent losses. 
 
 About the middle of June, he attended the Holland Purchase 
 yearly meeting at Varysburgh, where a solemn, impressive season 
 was enjoyed. He was appointed a delegate to the General Con- 
 ference, which was to meet the ensuing fall at Conneaut, Ohio. 
 The subject of the remaining debts for which he was responsible, 
 and which he was struggling to liquidate, was taken up, and it was 
 thought that, as they were contracted in peculiar circumstances, 
 33 
 
386 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 and in most trying times, while he was laboring for the yearly 
 meeting Home Mission Society, the brethren of the yearly meet- 
 ing ought to aid him in liquidating them. For this purpose, it was 
 agreed that a subsci-iption should be raised, and contributions should 
 be taken among the churches. As he had concluded to labor for a 
 time in the yearly meeting, he was appointed one of the agents in 
 this business. 
 
 During the month of July and the early part of August, when- 
 ever he could be persuaded to leave his companion, he visited and 
 preached with the churches, returning frequently to Rochester. 
 August 14 and 15, he attended a semi-annual meeting of the New 
 York State Temperance Society in Rochester. Two hundred and 
 twenty delegates were present, comprising many distinguished gen- 
 tlemen. Among the number was Mr. E. C. Delevan, recently re- 
 turned from Europe. Many high spirited resolutions were passed, 
 which elicited very able and animated discussions. These discus- 
 sions Mr. Marks briefly reported for the Morning Star. Mr. Dele- 
 van described an interview of two hours he had with Louis Phil- 
 lippe, the present king of France, which he spent in discussing the 
 subject of temperance. The king coincided with him in principle, 
 said, as for himself, he was ready to sign the pledge of total absti- 
 nence, but, continued he, " The people would call me a fool." Of 
 the 34,000,000 of people in France, it was estimated that not less 
 than 14,000,000 were concerned in the traffic of wine ! Within 
 the walls of Paris, the amount of strong drink used annually, is 
 equivalent to one hundred and thirty bottles of wine, and five bot- 
 tles of alcohol (holding nearly a quart each) for every man, woman 
 and child ! ! 
 
 The remaining part of August and September, Mr. Marks preach- 
 ed almost daily among the churches in Yates, Monroe, and Genesee 
 quarterly meetings, with much acceptance. September 28 and 29, 
 he attended the Monroe quarterly meeting at Ridgeway, where he 
 inet several delegates from New England, who were on their way 
 to the General Conference, about to meet in Ohio. After the close 
 of the meeting, he left with the eastern brethren, and arrived at 
 Conneaut, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1839. 
 
 The Conference opened its session October 2, and continued five 
 days. Mr. Marks, in addition to his duties as a member, I'eported 
 the proceedings. The most animated and interesting discussion 
 during this session was on the subject of slavery. Dr. Housley, 
 a licensed Calvinistic Baptist minister from Kentucky, differing 
 from his brethren in doctrine, and agreeing with the Free-will 
 Baptists, had come to the General Conference, bringing letters of 
 commendation. He wished to unite with the Free-will Baptists, 
 and be ordained before he returned. He stated that there were 
 
DAVID MARKS. 387 
 
 several thousand Baptists in Kentucky and adjacent states, who 
 were with him in sentiment, and if he was received, would eventu- 
 ally unite with the Free-will Baptists. A committee was appoint- 
 ed for his examination. They asked him what he thought of 
 American slavery. He replied, that it was a great moral evil, a 
 scourge, and a curse. They inquired if he was a slaveholder. He 
 said he was ; he owned a mother and three children. Being ask- 
 ed, if he thought it morally and religiously right to hold slaves, he 
 replied, " Circumstances alter cases. If I believed my slaves 
 would l3e improved in their condition by immediate emancipation, 
 I should be as glad to have them emancipated as you would ; but 
 they are ignorant and unprepared at present to take care of them- 
 selves." The council said to him, " We will give you satisfactory 
 bonds that we will give each of your slaves three years' good school- 
 ing in New England, support them during that time, and give oth- 
 er necessary instructions to qualify them for usefulness in life. We 
 will also go to Kentucky, and take them free of expense to you. 
 Will you let us have them on these conditions ?" He replied, " No, 
 unless I can have a remuneration." They asked, " What value do 
 you put upon your slaves ?" " They are worth about two thousand 
 dollars." The council further inquired, "If we will produce bonds 
 as before proposed, and pay you two thousand or two thousand five 
 hundred dollars, will you give up your slaves ?" " Yes," was the 
 reply. " If you should see your slaves passing here toward Can- 
 ada, what would be your course ?" " I should arrest, and claim 
 them as my property." 
 
 One of the resolutions on slavery, discussed by the Conference, 
 expressed the sentiment, that " The slaveholder or the advocate of 
 slavery, who refuses to examine the subject, or having examined 
 it, after due admonition, continues to advocate the system, ought 
 not to be fellowshipped as a Christian." After many excellent and 
 animated speeches from several members of the Conference, one 
 brother said, " I cannot go for the resolution. I think it uncalled 
 for, particularly at this time. Here is a brother [Dr. Housley] 
 w^lio has come between nine and eleven hundred miles as the rep- 
 resentative of some thousands of Christians at the south, who wish 
 to become acquainted with our denomination, and will probably 
 unite with us. He is a gentleman of science and respectable stand- 
 ing. The course the Conference is taking is likely to close up the 
 door of the union of those brethren with us. True, he owns a 
 small number of slaves, but we must remember that the circumstan- 
 ces of his education have been quite different from ours. I under- 
 stand that, on the morning previous to his leaving home, he called 
 his three little boys, who were slaves, with his own children around 
 the family altar. He holds these slaves on an equality with his 
 
388 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 cWldren. He has tried for years to induce the legislature of his 
 state to grant liberty to instruct the slaves. But the moment you 
 pass this resolution he is down, and the hopes of the Christians 
 with whom he is connected, are instantly blasted. They have been 
 struggling long and hard against the doctrine of the necessity of 
 the human will and close communion, and they rejoiced exceeding- 
 ly to learn, that at the north there were Christians of the same 
 sentiments."* 
 
 Mr. Marks replied, " I am perfectly astonished. I am almost 
 
 confounded with surprise, that my dear brother should wish, 
 
 while we are clear from the contaminating guilt of slavery, that we 
 should sell our freedom and purity at the beck of one man with but 
 four slaves If Is it possible that to gain a few thousands to our 
 
 number, brother is willing that we should change our ground, 
 
 and welcome slaveholding into the church ? If Dr. Housley wish- 
 es to come into our denomination, let him free his slaves, and then 
 we can receive him cheerfully, and bid him a hearty welcome to 
 
 our communion. But can it be possible that brother wishes 
 
 it published through the world, and in the sight of high heaven, 
 that the Free-will Baptists were full-blooded, thorough-going abo- 
 litionists, until a slaveholder came from the south, and sought ad- 
 mission to their communion, and the denomination, for the sake of 
 one man, instead of requiring him to free his slaves before he could 
 be received, gave their abolition to the winds, and bowed before 
 the dreadful Moloch of slavery ? O, be astonished, ye heavens ! 
 Tell it not in Gath." 
 
 The resolution passed unanimously, with one exception. 
 
 Dr. Housley having been invited to speak, subsequently address- 
 ed the Conference as follows : " I wish merely to tell the Confer- 
 ence the object of my visit. I have been a member of the United 
 Separate Baptist church in Kentucky. Fifteen months since, I 
 had a call to preach in one of the churches. I accepted it, and 
 preached according to my sentiments — a universal atonement, and 
 free communion. As the result, I could not receive ordination 
 from persons of opposite sentiments, and there was a prospect of a 
 division. I finally announced that I would withdraw and unite 
 with the Free-will Baptists, requesting them to deviate from their 
 usual course, and give me a certificate of my standing. They as- 
 sented. I have since itinerated among the churches of Kentucky, 
 and have found that large numbers of them are ready to split on 
 the points about which Ave differ. Many churches are made up of 
 
 * The brother who made these remarks, is now a zealous, active abolitionist, and 
 keeps one of the " under ground rail-road houses.''^ 
 
 t The Free-will Baptists had previously dis-fellowshipped their churches in North 
 Carolina on account of their persisting in their connexion with slavery. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 389 
 
 Free-will Baptists in sentiment. About thirty years ago there 
 was a separation of many churches, who took the ground of free 
 salvation and free communion. These were called Separate Bap- 
 tists. After this, there was a convention, and negotiations were 
 opened for their being united again with the Calvinistic body ; and 
 the two parties did unite in form, but not in sentiment. There are 
 now divisions constantly taking place. On one side they are call- 
 ed Parkerites, Fatalists, Calvinists, and, on the other side, they are 
 called Arminians and Missionaries. [The latter name is given 
 them because they are friends to missions.] Should you plant a 
 mission in Kentucky, probably you might gather in that state 
 twenty thousand members into your denomination within three 
 years. In talking these things over, it was agreed that I should 
 come and see you, and lay the circumstances before this body. I 
 have united with the Free-will Baptist church in this town. [It 
 is but justice to the church to say they did not know that Dr. 
 Housley was a slaveholder when they received him.J In the ex- 
 pectation that I should here receive ordination, I have an appoint- 
 ment to attend baptism on my return home." 
 
 The inquiry was made : Can a Free-will Baptist preach among 
 those churches with safety ? Dr. Housley replied, " He can — 
 provided he do not make the exciting subject of abolition the test 
 of fellowship." 
 
 The council appointed for Dr. Housley's examination, reported to 
 him, that while he claimed property in his fellow man, they could 
 not acknowledge him as a minister of Jesus Christ. 
 
 The report of the committee on the Book Concern gave ample 
 proof of the ability and wisdom of its conductors, and, as a matter 
 of course, was a subject of the deepest interest to Mr. Marks. It 
 contained the following very excellent remarks : " If we look at it 
 [Book Concern,] as it is now exhibited to us, it presents to our 
 view a large pecuniary interest, as the property of the denomina- 
 tion, for which, as a body, they never have advanced a farthing. 
 With its weekly circulation of five thousand copies of the Morning 
 Star, and its many thousand copies of useful books, we may con- 
 template it as now exerting, under the Divine blessing, an exten- 
 sive, benign, and heavenly influence over thousands of eternity- 
 bound souls, preparing them for greater usefulness in this world, 
 and for holiness and endless joy in that which is to come. If we 
 look at it as it has appeared in the past, we behold it weak and 
 feeble, without funds, loaded with debts of thousands of dollars, de- 
 claring uncompromising war with the whole empire of darkness, 
 constantly beset among other enemies, with poverty, prejudice, ig- 
 norance, intemperance, Romanism, and even measuring swords 
 with the giant monster slavery — and yet, under all these unfavora- 
 33* 
 
390 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 ble circumstances, we see it gradually rising, freeing itself from pe- 
 cuniary embarrassment, increasing in strength, gaining the confi- 
 dence of the public, and enlarging the sphere of its usefulness, un- 
 til it arrives as its present useful and prosperous state. We do 
 feel that every heart ought humbly and devoutly to say, * Hitherto 
 the Lord hath helped us.' The Morning Star is known through 
 our nation, and even in Europe and India, as the decided and fear- 
 less opposer of the sins of the age. If this characteristic of our 
 paper be destroyed, the world will suffer an irreparable loss. To 
 the care of our beloved denomination, God has committed the 
 Morning Star, bidding us to occupy till he comes, and on us its fu- 
 ture character and usefulness depends. * * * May the Morn- 
 ing Star never cease to emit the sacred rays of gospel light and 
 saving truth, until the glory of God shall cover the whole earth." 
 
 Among the resolutions that were passed on the subject of tem- 
 perance, was the following : " Whereas tobacco is one of the most 
 deadly poisons in the vegetable kingdom, and its use injurious to 
 the health and happiness of mankind. Therefore, Resolved, that the 
 habitual use of tobacco is in direct opposition to the true principles 
 of temperance — that it becomes us as a denomination to labor for 
 the removal of this evil from among us, and especially from the 
 ministry — ^and that we earnestly entreat our brethren who have 
 been engaged in the filthy practice of using this obnoxious weed, to 
 abstain therefrom." 
 
 Monday morning the Conference closed. The parting was a 
 very melting one. The delegates, in the prosecution of their busi- 
 ness, had been of one heart and one soul, and several had repeat- 
 ed, " How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell togeth- 
 er in unity." They pledged themselves to remember each other 
 in their addresses at the throne of grace, also the various operations 
 in which, as a denomination, they were engaged for the good of 
 souls. They sung a parting hymn while the members of the Con- 
 ference took leave of each other by shaking hands. The scene 
 was very affecting. All were bathed in tears, and the feelings of 
 some burst forth in sobs. Even Dr. Housley wept. 
 
 After the close of the Conference, Mr. Marks spent a few weeks 
 in accordance with previous engagements with the churches in the 
 north-eastern part of Ohio, the north-western part of Pennsylvania, 
 and south-western part of New York. All the record that has 
 been found of his labors among these churches, is contained in 
 the following brief, occasional notices in his letters to his companion. 
 
 Ashtabula, Ohio, Oct. 21, 1839. . 
 My dearly beloved wife : — 
 
 * * The evening I parted with you, Oct. 8, we had 
 
 a very interesting anti-slavery meeting in Conneaut, and thirty-two 
 
DAVID MARKS. 391 
 
 gave their names to form a society. Oct. 9 and 10, I travelled fif- 
 ty-eight miles, seven of which I walked, preached four times, and 
 had one unusually good season. Sabbath, Oct. 13, I preached three 
 times at Washington village, in Erie county. Pa. The congrega- 
 tions were large, and the Lord was with me. I have preached 
 with several churches in the Erie and Ashtabula quarterly meet- 
 ings. The seasons of worship have generally been very interest- 
 ing, and the assemblies large. I attended the Ashtabula quarterly 
 meeting at Williamsfield, and had one of the best seasons in preach- 
 ing that I ever had. About thirty arose for prayer, and some con- 
 fessed their sins. In Cherry Valley, a church has recently been 
 formed under the labors of Elder Ransom Dunn. One hundred 
 were converted in ten days, eighty of Whom he baptized. The 
 church is building a house of worship. 
 
 My health is unusually good. I fill my appointments with per- 
 fect ease, preach usually twice a day, from an hour to an hour and 
 a half, and feel no inconvenience. You have frequently entreated 
 me not to be anxious about you, but how can I help it ? Can you 
 so control your mind and feelings as not to be anxious about me ? 
 If you can, it is because you have more grace. Christ said, " Be 
 not anxious for your life," and if it is possible not to be anxious 
 even for life, I suppose we may so discipline our thoughts as not to 
 be anxious for each other ; but I scarcely know how to bring my 
 mind to such a state. The recollection of your feeble health, and 
 the fear that you will have a relapse, are thoughts almost constant- 
 ly before my eyes. O that I could be with you to show you a mul- 
 titude of those little kindnesses which you so much need in your 
 feebleness. I will try, however, to be patient, and comfort myself 
 with the reflection, that you are in the hands of a kind Savior, who 
 has shown me many mercies, and whose kindness, though unmerit- 
 ed, will not forsake me. Since we parted I have enjoyed consid- 
 erable of the Divine presence. I hope you also have had the pres- 
 ence of Christ to comfort you in your privations and afflictions. 
 how good has my Heavenly Father been to me. What kind- 
 ness in permitting me to be with my dear companion so much, and 
 above all in granting me the privilege, when she was sick, of min- 
 istering to her comfort. Certainly we have no reason to complain ; 
 thousands of persons are induced by the hope of mere sordid gain 
 to part for months and years. Some have to leave their wives 
 with several children, and they have to endure severe poverty, 
 with none to pity them, but many to oppress and misuse them. 
 But what a multitude of kind friends we have. O we will labor 
 to be thankful and contented. We know we can stay here on 
 earth but a little while, and then our final change will come. We 
 have now arrived to a period of life, in which the flight of time 
 
392 MEMoms OF 
 
 will be very rapid, and much as we love one another, we must cer- 
 tainly part soon. O may we be prepared. We will thank God 
 for what time we are allowed to spend together here, and for the 
 blessed hope, that soon after the last parting on earth, we shall meet 
 where we shall " know as we are known," and our union be com- 
 plete, perfect, and eternal. 
 
 Your fortunate husband, 
 
 David Marks. 
 
 He wrote Nov. 2, " One of the most interesting meetings 
 w^hich I have had since I saw you was at the village of Gerard. 
 The power of God was wonderfully manifested. A large assem- 
 bly, with one exception, bent the knee. I had good seasons among 
 the churches in the French Creek quarterly meeting. In North- 
 east I was attacked by a pro-slavery advocate. The weather has 
 been very fine indeed — the best I ever saw it during an autumn. 
 The thermometer has been usually from 60 to 70 degrees and the 
 roads have been as dry and dusty as in June." 
 
 From Nov. 2 to Nov. 24, Mr. Marks visited twenty-one church- 
 es in the Chatauque, Erie, Cattaraugus, and Genesee quarterly 
 meetings, preaching from one to three times daily. 
 
 He wrote, " I preached three times in Portland Sabbath, Nov. 3, 
 with tolerable freedom, and during the week, I preached in Ark- 
 wright, Villanovia, Charlotte, twice in Cherry Creek, and Nov. 9 
 and 10, attended the Chatauque quarterly meeting in Dayton. The 
 latter was a powerful season. Several confessed their sins. Some, 
 I think, will be converted. During the six days following, I 
 preached in Ellington, Napoli, twice in Little Valley, Mansfield, 
 West Otto and East Otto. Yesterday I had three sweet meetings. 
 In the evening, my text was Luke 1 6:5. " And how much owest thou 
 my lord?" I think deep and lasting impressions were made. 
 Several confessed their sins, and one that came forward for pray- 
 er, prayed aloud. * * My health has not been so good 
 in eight years. I have not even a cold or cough, which is so com- 
 mon for me at this season of the year. Indeed I seem nearly well, 
 thanks be to God. In compliance with your request, and for your 
 sake, I am more careful than I need be, merely because were you 
 with me, you would insist on certain points of caution and self- 
 preserving care. 
 
 Concord, Nov. 19, 7 o'clock, A. M. I arose this morning at three 
 o'clock, and have written a large sheet of editorial reports of the 
 General Conference. To-day, I have to write a letter to India, 
 then go to Boston, thence to Richardson's settlement in Concord 
 and preach to-night." 
 
DAVID MARKS. 393 
 
 During the month of December, Mr. Marks preached daily, 
 with good success, among the churches of the Genesee and Cat- 
 taraugus quarterly meetings. In the early part of January, 1840, 
 he left his companion with friends in Bath, Steuben county, and at- 
 tended several appointments extending into Pennsylvania. He 
 wrote : 
 
 Addison Village, Jan. 17, 1840. 
 My dear wife : — 
 
 This morning is at least ten degrees colder than any I ever saw 
 to my knowledge. I am now sitting by the side of a great fire, 
 but the ink freezes in my pen before I can write out a pen full. 
 The mercury has retired from sight in every thermometer in the 
 village, though one of them shows thirty degrees below zero. 
 
 Since I left you, I have preached from one to three times a day, 
 and during the first six days, beside my other labors, I wrote and 
 mailed thirty-two letters. The snow has been very deep, and the 
 roads little broken, consequently the travelling has been tedious. 
 I visited two churches in Pennsylvania ; one in Westfield, the oth- 
 er in Deerfield. The former church is small and poor, and the 
 country sterile indeed. The one in Deerfield is the only church 
 in the village. My meetings, on the whole, have been interesting, 
 but not attended with so much power as I have earnestly desired. 
 This has made me feel gloomy." Three days afterwards, he 
 wrote : — " Last Sabbath, I preached three times and had excellent 
 seasons. I was very happy. My soul was deeply imbued with 
 the importance of the truths I presented, and the assembly was 
 greatly melted. Several arose for prayer. 
 
 I have been thinking to-day how much comfort we have en- 
 joyed together — how happy we have been in each other's society. 
 What mutual confidence, and affection, and unmingled pleas- 
 ure have attended our association. Notwithstanding the keen, 
 heart-rending, soul-prostrating grief, which will press upon the 
 one that is left, when the other shall have gone to our eternal home, 
 will there not be a sweet mournful pleasure in thinking of our 
 happy union, and also in thinking of its renewal in another world ! 
 * * * * When I reflect on the extreme shortness 
 of this life, and the great rapidity with which time is floating us 
 down — down to the great ocean of unchanging, endless duration, 
 I am more and more astonished at the stupidity of the multitudes 
 who know not God, and the thoughtlessness of professors of Chris- 
 tianity. If we may judge from the conduct of most men, it would 
 seem that they were atheists. God is not in all their tho'^ghts. O 
 what a lack of principle is there in the multitude, and even in the 
 church ! Lovers of pleasure more than lovers of G^d, appears to 
 be the characteristic of the great body of the people, and I fear 
 
394; . MEMOIRS OF 
 
 too of even the churcli. With all the facilities which we have for 
 gaining knowledge, how little love of study we find, how little log- 
 ical and sound reasoning. In view of these things, I have, last eve- 
 ning and this morning, felt much depressed. * * * 
 Farewell. As ever, your affectionate husband, 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
 Friday, Jan. 24, 1840. Mr. Marks returned to Bath, and till 
 the middle of April, travelled constantly. In this time he preach- 
 ed one hundred and sixty-five sermons in the churches in Yates, 
 Penfield, Monroe, Genesee, Erie, Cattaraugus, and Chatauque 
 quarterly meetings. While riding, he was constantly studying or 
 reading, as had long been his custom ; when he stopped and was 
 not in meetings, he was almost continuously writing, and at the 
 same time often carrying on an animated conversation. All the 
 record of his labors during this period, are a few brief notices in 
 the following letters. 
 
 " February 26. The ground was bare. I walked nine miles in 
 twenty-two, to my appointment in Parma, and preached nearly two 
 hours. The house was full, and the people were very attentive. 
 I have had considerable difficulty and much fatigue to get along 
 on account of the travelling. Sometimes I almost regret having 
 appointments at this season of the year, but then I must have omit- 
 ted doing much that I have done towards liquidating my remain- 
 ing debts, and until I get this old affair off from my mind, it will be 
 difficult for me to pursue my labors with a clear mind and a full 
 heart." 
 
 " March 10. The sleighing being gone, I rode thirty four miles 
 in the storm on horseback, carrying all my baggage, and preached 
 at evening in Golden. I enjoy pretty good spirits, and trust that I 
 shall meet some fruits from my present labors in another world. 
 I rejoice at the interest you feel in studying the Bible. I hope it 
 will furnish matter for conversation and my instruction, particular- 
 ly at such times as we may be riding in places where I cannot 
 read. 
 
 I intended to have conversed some more with you at our last meeting 
 in relation to the child given us by our dying sister.* I have thought 
 considerably about it. I feel a strong inclination to take her with 
 some deduction on account of circumstances. The result is, I am 
 passive. I do not wish you to take her to please me — nor not to 
 take her to please me — nor to take her out of pity, for this would 
 be putting a burden upon you which you are not able to bear, and 
 which it is not needful you should bear. I wish you to follow your 
 
 * Mrs. Mark's brother's wife, who left an infant daughter four months old. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 395 
 
 own inclination, and do what, on the whole, you think will secure 
 to you, in all probability, the greatest amount of usefulness and 
 enjoyment. I have thought she might be company and a comfort 
 to you in future years. Ask wisdom from above, and may God 
 direct you. 
 
 I confine myself strictly to a Graham diet. I thank you for 
 your kind instrumentaUty in inducing me to try it. I am not pos- 
 itive that it has as yet effected any change except it be to reduce 
 my appetite. It may have produced more evenness of temper, 
 calmness and cheerfulness of mind, and less liability to disease. I 
 wish to sleep less than formerly, from four to six hours being all I 
 seem to need. 
 
 * * * ' I cannot tell you what feelings the thoughts of 
 your removal by death give me. How solemn the reflection, that 
 it will soon be, or that which will be to you more painful, 
 shall be taken from you ! Are we prepared ? I trust we are. I 
 think we are living for another world, and a happy way it is to 
 live. * * 
 
 March 16. I am reading Faber on the prophecies a second time 
 and making notes. To-day I resume the study and comparing of 
 Fuller and Hall on Communion. I think I am preparing for as 
 great performances, as to the amount of labor, as disciplined tem- 
 perance and exercise will enable me to perform. Farewell. 
 
 With unshaken, undying affection, I remain your happy hus- 
 band, D. Marks." 
 
 " Wirt, Allegany County, April 6, 1840. 
 My dearly beloved wife : — 
 
 Since I wrote you last Friday, I have been well, and 
 success has in general attended me. The most that has pained 
 me has been that I succeed no more in moving upon the consciences 
 and hearts of my hearers. I have no difficulty in finding good 
 words, and sound speech, which cannot be gainsayed, but I feel 
 exceedingly dissatisfied with myself. I need to get my own soul 
 more baptized into the spirit of the subjects on which I preach. I 
 have resolved to spend more time in prayer. I need not say to 
 you, " Pray for me," for I am satisfied you do this daily, and 
 that more faithfully than I do for myself. 
 
 I am now in a blacksmith's shop on my way to Angelica, writ- 
 Jng on a bench, while my horse is being shod. I cannot describe 
 to you the feelings which your account of my brother Jeremiah's 
 return gave me, nor tell you how it affected me when his unex- 
 pected name was disclosed. Truly it seemed like one coming from 
 the dead, for I had little expectation of ever seeing him again. 
 Till now I never had much conception of the feelings of relatives, 
 
396 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 on the return of one from an unknown sea-faring life. O how I 
 long to see him. 
 
 I have finished the reading of Combe's " Constitution of Man." 
 I have had a great variety of feehngs. Sometimes I have felt bad 
 —sometimes my admiration has been raised very high. His posi- 
 tions with regard to study, health, exercise, and particularly in re- 
 lation to the treatment of the poor, are excellent. With respect 
 to other things, some seem to me as common truisms and some as 
 untenable. Sometimes I could but feel that his positions favored 
 infidelity — at other times, they seemed to favor a cold philosophi- 
 cal religion. Again, it has seemed that he was not a believer in 
 revelation, but used words and sentences like Robert Owen, in a 
 new and peculiar sense. I cannot assent to his position, that man 
 was created to die, nor to his position, that the Creator designed the 
 rude barbarian ignorance which formerly existed, or, in other 
 words, that the mere progressive state of rising in the human fam- 
 ily, was an original plan of the Deity. His positions in relation 
 to the unavoidable wickedness of character created by parents 
 in their offspring, are " hard sayings," and unreconcilable with 
 Scripture, or with the benevolence and justice of God. But, per- 
 haps I do not understand the necessary inferences which follow 
 from his positions. Sometimes I fear the reading of this work 
 will lead me to be too literal, as Sutton said of McKnight's Com- 
 mentary. You know I am already much inclined to dwell upon 
 facts and skeleton frames. In relation to a few things pre- 
 sented by Combe, my feelings remind me of the Bramin, who with 
 his foot crushed the microscope which discovered to him the living 
 insects in his food. 
 
 Aurora, April 7. I had a good meeting last evening, and a full 
 house. To-day I am to preach twice in Belfast and Rockville, and 
 am to stay to-night at brother Bruce's, where, as I told you, I 
 admired so much the mother and her children. How charming, 
 and yet how unfrequent, the sight of a household regulated in all 
 things by the gospel of Christ. * - * Farewell. 
 Your affectionate husband, 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
 « Warsaw, April 10, 1840. 
 My dear Marilla : — 
 
 Since I wrote you, I have had most excellent meetings. My own 
 soul has been much blessed, and I have seen more of the power of 
 God attend my preaching. In one of my meetings, forty-two spoke, 
 and twenty came forward for prayer. In Pike, the Lord is reviv- 
 ing his work gloriously. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 397 
 
 1 rejoice to hear of your improved health and enjoyment. I do 
 most earnestly hope, that ' He who tempers the wind to the shorn 
 lamb/ will so reconcile you to your lot, that you will not have 
 tliat afflictive gloom which you had when I was gone to Ohio. I 
 have not suffered so much agony of feeling, as I did on that occa- 
 sion. I cannot attribute this to any loss of affection, for this does 
 not seem to be a possibility. Indeed, I do not think such an event 
 could possibly occur, except it were in consequence of a departure 
 from God ; and we must remember that we are not beyond the 
 reach, power, and influence of temptation. In two weeks I hope 
 to meet you, and I hope we shall never have to be parted so long 
 again. Still we do not know what a day may bring forth. We 
 have certainly had a full and sweet cup of social enjoyment. When 
 I think of the manner in which many others live, and how pleas- 
 antly we have passed our days together, I feel my heart burn with 
 gratitude to that God who graciously brought us to see each other's 
 face, and to be re-united in heart and in reality for life. * * 
 Farewell. As ever, your very affectionate husband, 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
 CHAPTER XXVIII. 
 
 Particulars of Mr, Maries^ Labors, SfC, mostly in the State of New 
 York, from April, 1840, to July, 1842. 
 
 For several years, Mr. Marks had desired to attend the meet- 
 ings of the great benevolent societies, held annually in the city 
 of New York. The way for the gratification of this desire was 
 now open, and the latter part of April, accompanied by his com- 
 panion, he visited the city for this purpose. 
 
 April 23. He attended the American and Foreign Bible Soci- 
 ety, and reported the speeches for the Morning Star. The Socie- 
 ty voted to give one thousand dollars to the Freewill and General 
 Baptist mission in Orissa, to aid in circulating Mr. Sutton's trans- 
 lation of the Scriptures in the Oriya language. April 28 — 30, he 
 attended the Baptist Anti-Slavery Convention, which was an ex- 
 tremely interesting season. It was stated that there were more 
 slaves held by Baptists, than by any other denomination. From 
 five to twelve hundred were held by single Baptist churches, and 
 1 25,000 by the denomination ! ! He also reported the discussions 
 of this convention. Sabbath, May 3, he listened with thrilling in- 
 terest to a discourse from Mr. Kirk. His subject was the moral 
 34 
 
398 MEMOIES OF 
 
 and religious state of France, and he plead eloquently that the 
 Foreign Evangelical Society should send missionaries to France. 
 He said there was the most power in Paris of any city in the 
 world, and more literature, thought, and refinement. Its present 
 influence was ruinous. Infidelity, superstition, materialism, abound- 
 ed. He expressed the conviction, that the condition of female 
 chastity was such as to undermine any government. During the 
 ensuing week, Mr. Marks attended the anniversaries of the Sea- 
 men's Friend Society, and the American Anti-Slavery Society. 
 There was nothing at the latter, which so much interested him, as 
 an address from H. P. Garnet, a negro, who was a graduate from 
 Oneida Institute, and of whom Governor Seward said, "I nev- 
 er listened to eloquence till I listened to Henry P. Garnet." His 
 voice was commanding, his enunciation distinct, his ideas bold, his 
 descriptions graphic, and his language extremely beautiful. 
 
 Mr. Marks employed his leisure in visiting places of interest in 
 the city. Among these, was Mr. Peale's museum, of which he 
 made the following record. " New York, Wednesday, May 6. We 
 visited Peale's museum. The first object that met us was the 
 * Belgian Giant,' (recently from Europe.) seven feet eight inches 
 high. He was well proportioned, and his appearance command- 
 ing, weighs about 330 pounds. He is said to be the largest and 
 strongest man living. He took a young man about eighteen or twenty 
 years of age on his hand, and tossed him as a common man would a little 
 child. He was very gentlemanly and sociable — had been in the muse- 
 um about six weeks for a show, and was soon going to the Philadelphia 
 museum. The next object was an Egyptian mummy, five feet and 
 two inches in height. It was taken from a catacomb at Thebes. 
 The body was enveloped in sixty-eight thicknesses of linen, the 
 most of which had been removed from the face. The features 
 were regular, the skin nearly black, and the hair a little cur- 
 ly. It was enclosed in a sarcophagus [a sort of coffin] of syc- 
 amore wood, which was covered with hieroglyphics. Strange feel- 
 ings passed over me while gazing upon this relic of antiquity. 
 How far it was from the thoughts of those friends who embalmed 
 this body, that it would ever find its way across the mighty ocean, 
 and in the New World be a wonder upon which many should 
 gaze. After all, how vain is the effort of man to perpetuate his 
 memory. While the tenement in which the soul dwelt a few brief 
 years, is preserved from decay, the name of the individual has 
 been forgotten for centuries. And while acres of catacombs have 
 been discovered, it is said that the present inhabitants of Egypt, 
 instead of reverencing the respect of their ancestors for the dead, 
 are using the mummies for common fuel. Surely, the * glory of 
 man is as grass.' 
 
DAVID MARKS. S99 
 
 Some of the delegates to the World's Convention, which was to 
 meet in London the following June, urged Mr. Marks to accompa- 
 ny them, saying, that as the Free-will Baptists had washed their 
 hands from the guilt of slavery, they ought to be represented in the 
 Convention. But as he had not funds to defray the expenses of 
 the voyage, he wrote, at their request, the following letter, which 
 was published in London in the " Proceedings" of the Convention, 
 in an octavo volume of about six hundred pages, and is copied 
 from that work. 
 
 " New York City, May 8, 1840. 
 
 To the World's Anti- Slavery Convention at London^ June 12, 
 
 1840. 
 Dear brethren in the cause of suffering humanity, 
 
 The Free-will Baptists 
 in the United States, numbering about 40,000 communicants, are 
 united in the holy cause of abolition. Probably we should have 
 sent a delegation to your Convention, had a knowledge of its ap- 
 pointment reached us previous to our anniversaries in 1839. In 
 the absence of such a delegation, I will take upon myself the re- 
 sponsibility of making some statements respecting our anti-slavery 
 sentiments. 
 
 As a people, we mourn that the church in this land is so deeply 
 involved in the sin of slavery, and have endeavored to keep our 
 garments pure and unspotted from its foul stains. We neither re- 
 ceive into our churches, nor at the communion table, any whose 
 hands are polluted with slavery. Our Board of Foreign Missions 
 refuses to receive any donation or bequest from slave-holders, on 
 the principle that their wealth is the wages of iniquity, and the 
 price of blood. 
 
 Our churches, which are spread over about half the United 
 States, meet together [by delegation] quarterly, in about eighty as- 
 sociations. The cause of the down-trodden slave is almost invari- 
 ably remembered at these meetings, facts are presented, warm-heart- 
 ed, stirring addresses are given, and our testimony against the 
 wicked system of slavery is repeated in the form of recorded res- 
 olutions. These associations, being held from church to church, 
 have been effectual in scattering much light and in tearing away 
 many a veil which sophistry had woven. At the last session of 
 our General Conference, which comprised a delegation from every 
 portion of our denomination, our anti-slavery principles were prac- 
 tically tested in a public manner. Dr. Housley, a slave-holding 
 minister from Kentucky, accompanied with high recommendations, 
 presented himself, desiring admission to our church. Had he been 
 received, 20,000 in the slaveholding states would probably have 
 
400 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 been added to our communion, who with him had embraced our 
 peculiar denominational tenets. But his request was met with the 
 prompt answer, that he could not be received, either as a minister, 
 or a member, till he should give liberty to his slaves. 
 
 Probably, a principal cause of the union of the Free-will Bap- 
 tists in abolition efforts, is the righteous course pursued by the 
 Morning Star, a weekly religious periodical, which is the organ of 
 the denomination. May heavenly wisdom guide your deliberations, 
 and direct your decisions. 
 
 Yours in the cause of the slave, 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 Sabbath, May 10, Mr. Marks was laboring under much indispo- 
 sition, but having previously accepted an invitation to preach for 
 Mr. Dunbar, pastor of the Calvinistic Baptist church in McDougal 
 street, he spoke to his congregation in the morning. The audience 
 seemed to listen with much interest, and in almost breathless si- 
 lence. At the close of the sermon, Mr. Dunbar said to the peo- 
 ple, " Mr. Marks will preach to you in the afternoon. I have not 
 consulted him, fearing he will decline, and believing if the notice 
 is given out, he will not dare to do so. I venture to say you will 
 not be disappointed. I shall take him home with me, and shall 
 not allow him out of my sight." The excitement of the morning 
 service seemed to have imparted to him some strength, so that he 
 spoke in the afternoon mth much animation and apparent effect. 
 At the close of this sermon also, Mr. Dunbar said to the audience, 
 that the same speaker would address them again in the evening, 
 and added, " I have not dared to ask his consent, lest he should re- 
 fuse." Mr. Marks now made remonstrance on account of his ill-% 
 ness, but it was all useless. He endured a third sermon better than 
 he anticipated. This church had ever been an anti-slavery church. 
 It was organized in 1809, when slavery was tolerated in the state 
 of New York. At that time, they adopted the following article : 
 *' We believe that a slaveholder, or one who traffics in human be- 
 ings, is not a fit member for a gospel church, and that it would be 
 sinful for such a church knowingly to suffer one to sit down and 
 commune with them." 
 
 Mr. Dunbar seemed much interested in Mr. Marks, and urged 
 him to make his arrangements to labor in the city. He said, 
 "There is a great destitution of laborers here, that is, of such as 
 really care for souls. There are many thousands in this city who 
 never go to the house of prayer ; these ought to be visited, and 
 conversed with. You can do vast good here. There are many 
 Free-will Baptists, and many General Baptists from England, in 
 this city, and they want a home. We have some that are mem- 
 
DAVID MAltK'Sl 401 
 
 bers of our church. They are good Christians, but they are not 
 at home with us. They do not believe our distinctive sentiments. 
 We will give them letters of commendation to join you, and I will 
 help you all I can." Mr. Marks objected, that a difficulty would 
 arise from want of means for his support. Mr. Dunbar said : 
 " There will be no difficulty on that ground. You can be sustained 
 here. I will board you and your wife for the actual cost, and this 
 I can do for $3,50 per week." He continued his plea till he made 
 considerable impression, and Mr. Marks began seriously to think 
 upon the subject. 
 
 His illness continued to increase till he found himself severely 
 attacked with bilious fever. He kept his bed two days, and feel- 
 ing relieved after the operation of powerful medicines, he ventured 
 to take a steamboat to Albany, and thence the Erie canal westward, 
 but was obliged to lie most of the time in his berth. The follow- 
 ing incidents of this trip he wrote for the Morning Star. "I had 
 been unable, without suffering a day's detention, to get a passage 
 in a Sabbath-keeping boat, and while Saturday night was approach- 
 ing, as I lay confined by illness most of the time to my berth, the 
 thoughts of getting my baggage stored, and stopping a day among 
 Strangers, would have been burdensome and gloomy, were it not 
 that the privilege of reverencing God's Sabbath filled my soul with 
 inexpressible peace. Said a gentleman, who had formerly held a 
 high office in the state, on learning that I was going to leave Sat- 
 urday night : ' You do wrong — ^you ought to stay here over the 
 Sabbath. I heard the captain say he was going to ask you to 
 preach to-morrow. You may do much good. If you leave, prob- 
 ably there will be no religious services on the boat.' His reason- 
 ing failed to convince me that it was right to * do evil that good 
 might come,' or that I should dare to ask God's blessing on my la- 
 bors, when I was knowingly breaking his commandments. Two 
 professing Christian ladies, who were present, feeling that their in- 
 tention of travelling was silently rebuked, resumed the discussion, 
 and began to plead, that in their case, at least, it was excusable — 
 they were travelling alone, should spend the day in reading the 
 Bible, &c. Their arguments were replied to ; they seemed to feel 
 their sophistry, though they did not then acknowledge it, and re^ 
 mained silent. At length, said the eldest lady, ' I think I shall 
 not travel to-morrow. I have been thinking much of our conver- 
 sation. I never before considered it in this light. I do not think, 
 because it is attended with inconvenience and self-denial to 
 keep the commandments, that we can be guiltless in disobedience.' 
 On arriving at Syracuse early Saturday evening, I could but give 
 thanks to Him who * tempereth the wind to the shorn lamb,' as; 
 unexpectedly we came * along side* a beautiful Sabbath-keeping 
 34* 
 
402 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 boat, an incident which precluded any expense of my strength in 
 the care of my luggage. I immediately introduced myself to El- 
 der Blain, pastor of the Calvinistic Baptist church in Syracuse, who 
 received me, not as a stranger, but welcomed me as a ' brother be- 
 loved.' The ensuing Sabbath was indeed to me a day of joy. 
 The sweet peace and animation that filled my soul, seemed to in- 
 vigorate all my physical powers, so that, much to my own surprise, 
 I was enabled to comply with the kind invitation of brother Blain 
 to preach Christ to his people. One effort, however, brought on 
 so much weakness, that I dared not yield to his often repeated re- 
 quest to address them again, but O it was sweet to be in the sanc- 
 tuary. 
 
 Sabbath evening, I listened to an address from Mr. Stillman, an 
 agent for the American Bethel Society, and never before did the 
 sweet charities of Christian benevolence, aiming to convert this 
 wicked world into a new " Eden of moral loveliness," seem to me 
 so inexpressibly delightful. Mr. Stillman stated, that it had been 
 ascertained by a careful examination, that within ten years, the 
 amount of crime punishable by law in the state of New York had 
 much decreased. [This result had doubtless been produced by th e 
 temperance reform and the great revivals of religion.] Yet it 
 w^as a startling fact, that half these crimes have been committed 
 on the Erie canal, and the cause of this disproportion was clearly 
 traceable to the disregard of the Sabbath. All the lines of boats, 
 with one noble exception, run on the Sabbath. Boatmen and dri- 
 vers are effectually excluded from the blessings of this land of 
 Sabbaths. Professors of religion, and even professed ministers of 
 that Savior, who came ^ not to destroy the law,' are often found 
 on the boats on God's holy day. The consequence of this state of 
 things is a horrid amount of profanity, intemperance, licentious- 
 ness, and numberless other crimes that imbrute and ruin the soul ; 
 and for this. Christians are responsible. 
 
 Mr. Stillman recommended that a complaint be entered against 
 every church member that should be guilty of the sin of Sabbath 
 travelling on the canal, and that the discipline of the church be as 
 impartially exercised upon those that violate the fourth command- 
 ment, as upon those that violate the sixth or seventh. My soul 
 shuddered as I listened to his portrayal of the crimes and wretch- 
 edness he had himself witnessed. Among the cases of ruin that 
 he named, were two boys, sons of widows, about twelve or thirteen 
 years of age ! who had been employed as di*ivei*s. They died the 
 past winter, and when he saw them, they were almost literally 
 eaten up with that most awful disease which God ever inflicted on 
 man, as the immediate consequence of crime. Mr. Stillman an- 
 nounced the pleasing intelligence, that the Bethel Society had en- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 403 
 
 gaged a devoted minister to labor constantly as a missionary on the 
 canal till the close of navigation, going from boat to boat, and con- 
 versing with the captains, crews, and drivers. He had already vis- 
 ited five hundred boats, and in no one instance had been treated 
 with the least unkindness or disrespect. The captains and boat- 
 men generally told him they would be glad to rest on the Sabbath, 
 but the owners of boats refused. Several capitalists whom he vis- 
 ited, said they were willing, on their part, that their boats should 
 lie still on the Lord's day, but the western merchants would re- 
 fuse to patronize them. Many of these western merchants are 
 professors of religion !" * * 
 
 On Monday morning, Mr. Marks resumed his journey on the 
 canal, and by the time of his arrival in western New York, his 
 health had much improved. From the 27th of May to the 18th of 
 June, he attended appointments previously notified, extending through 
 the Erie, Chatauque, and French Creek quarterly meetings, preach- 
 ing usually from one to three times in a day. June 19 — 21, he 
 attended the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in Bethany, and 
 preached on the Sabbath, standing in one of the windows of the 
 meeting house, as not half of the vast concourse could get inside of 
 the house. 
 
 Immediately after the yearly meeting, he was attacked on his 
 way to Rochester with a disease in his throat, attended with a very 
 severe cough, and which confined him to his bed a few days. 
 A physician, whom he called, said it was an attack of the bron- 
 chitis, and that he must for a time entirely desist from preaching. He 
 soon began to amend, but being prohibited from public speaking, he 
 went to Canada the early part of July, and spent a few weeks at 
 his father-in-law's, writing a treatise on the " Design of the Lord's 
 Supper," which was afterwards published by the Book Concern, 
 with three other essays, in a volume, entitled Free Communionist. 
 The following incidents, connected with this visit to Canada, he 
 wrote for the Morning Star. 
 
 "On approaching the Canadian shore. Gen. Brock's stately 
 monument on Queenston heights appeared a prominent object. 
 From the accounts in the public journals of its having been * blown 
 up,' I had received the impression that it lay a mass of ruins. At 
 a distance, no change in its appearance is perceptible ; but on a 
 nearer approach, the ruthless work of the enemy was clearly dis- 
 cernible. The monument was riven from its base to its top-stone, 
 a distance of about 125 feet. * * I was every where kindly re- 
 ceived and cordially welcomed. Indeed, I never travelled among 
 a more hospitable people than the Upper Canadians. In my jour- 
 neyings in the province, I have frequently called among entire 
 strangers, and met with almost reproofs for offering to pay for fa- 
 
404 MEMOms OF 
 
 vors I had asked ; nor had the late commotions altered their char* 
 acter in this respect. Much of the country is delightfully situated, 
 and the soil is equal to western New York. Some sections are 
 fast improving. Woodstock, [in the town of Oxford,] the principal 
 village of Brock District, has sprung into being with the rapidity 
 characteristic of the villages of our western states. It has an ele- 
 gant Court House, and, together with its vicinity, contains the 
 beautiful seats of several of the English gentry. Five different de- 
 nominations hold meetings in this village every Sabbath : the Epis- 
 copalian, Scotch Kirk, Free-communion Baptist, Methodist, and 
 Christian. The latter is distinct from the sect of that name in the 
 United States. Their denomination arose in Wales. Among their 
 distinguishing peculiarities, is the order of their meetings. When 
 they assemble for ' worship,^ they all sit together, and do not al- 
 low those they consider impenitent to mingle with them. On such 
 occasions, they have no one selected to preach to them, but any one 
 who chooses may speak, or pray, or engage in any act of worship, 
 to which his views of duty may lead him. They have separate 
 meetings, in which they preach to the wicked, but these they do 
 not call meetings of worship. Our Free-communion Baptist breth- 
 ren, so far as I could learn, were prospering. Their church in the 
 village of Woodstock is flourishing. They have a house of wor- 
 ship, a respectable congregation, a good Sabbath school, and enjoy 
 the labors of an excellent and talented pastor. A few months since, 
 they were blessed with a precious revival. In the vicinity of Long 
 Point, the Free-communion brethren were sharing one of the most 
 powerful revivals that has ever visited that section of country. 
 
 Our brethren of the London quarterly meeting are in a very 
 scattered state. The rebellion had a disastrous effect on the 
 churches of this association. A large proportion of the members, 
 and some of the preachers, fearing the troubles and distress of a 
 tedious war, emigrated to Michigan, Illinois, &c. Those that were 
 left thought it was useless to struggle any longer against the op- 
 posing influences that surrounded them, and concluded to give up 
 their quarterly meeting. Time passed on, yet they could not rest 
 satisfied. At length a few brethren met together, and after a sea- 
 son of weeping and prayer, they determined on making another ef- 
 fort to renew the quarterly meeting. They have only two minis- 
 ters left them. 
 
 During my stay in the province, the colored people, to the num- 
 ber of about two hundred, held a camp meeting in Norwich, a town 
 a few miles distant from Woodstock. Most of these were fugitives 
 escaped from republican slavery. The meeting was attended with 
 the Divine blessing, and gained the reputation of having been one 
 of the most solemn, orderly meetings of the kind ever held in the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 405 
 
 province. I heard many contradictory opinions respecting the 
 character of the negro fugitives. Some represent them as most de- 
 graded and wicked, — others say they are grateful for favors, up- 
 right, moral, and industrious. The testimony gathered from those 
 who best knew them, as well as from facts that fell under my own 
 observation, generally corroborated the latter opinion. Doubtless^ 
 there is every variety of character among them, as they partake of 
 the depravity common to man, and probably are as bad, or nearly 
 so, as white people would be in the same circumstances. Bred 
 from infancy amid scenes of oppression, cruelty, and licentiousness, 
 sunk in ignorance, and unrestrained by moral or religious consider- 
 ations, it would be contrary to the laws which govern mind, and 
 indeed would amount to a miracle, were they, without the use of 
 means, to be metamorphosed instantly into beings of great moral or 
 intellectual worth. 
 
 There is much work in this province for the temperance society, 
 as there is much intemperance, especially among the higher class ; 
 that is, what * temperance folks' call intemperance, — though per- 
 haps the devotees of fashionable custom might think this a slander- 
 ous accusation. Some of the ministers of the Scotch Kirk have re- 
 cently engaged in the cause with an ardor becoming their profes- 
 sion, and are exerting a great influence in reforming the dissipated 
 habits of their people. If the ministers of the established church 
 would follow their example, incalculable good to Canada would be 
 the result. The Scotch and English inhabitants are generally 
 members of their respective churches, and are very punctual in 
 their attendance upon their Sabbath services. They also refrain 
 from some sins on that day in which they indulge on other days. 
 They look upon it as very * heathenish' not to be a member of 
 some church, while their lives evince that the power which pro- 
 duces a change in the affections and conduct, is generally wanting. 
 There is great need of more humble, holy, evangelical ministers, 
 who, alike regardless of praise or censure, shall boldly tell the peo- 
 ple, that the swearer, the gambler, the fornicator, the adulterer, 
 though he may belong to a church below, can have no inheritance 
 in the kingdom of God." 
 
 Mr. Marks returned to New York in September, having preach- 
 ed little for two months. His throat was apparently well, and he 
 now resumed the employment he so passionately loved. From the 
 1st of Oct. to the 19th of November, he visited and preached with 
 fifty churches in the Monroe, Penfield, Yates, Genesee, Erie, and 
 Chatauque quarterly meetings. As winter approached, he deemed 
 it prudent to locate for a season. Accordingly, he accepted a call 
 to labor half the time with the church in the little village of Varys- 
 burg, in the town of Sheldon, Wyoming Co., where he again com- 
 
406 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 menced house-keeping. The Sheldon High School, under the pat- 
 ronage of the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, was located here, 
 and was in a flourishing condition. He commenced his labors in 
 December. In the latter part of the month, he held a protracted 
 meeting in Portage, a village on the Genesee river, noted for its 
 irreligion, about twenty miles distant from Varysburg. The 
 meeting was blessed to the conversion of several. He organ- 
 ized a church, consisting at first of twelve members, and engaged 
 to labor with them half the time for a season. The church soon 
 had several additions, and they immediately commenced building a 
 house of worship. He now applied himself very laboriously to his 
 pastoral duties, visiting and praying not only with the members of 
 his own and other churches, but with the people generally. In- 
 deed, there were few, if any, families in Varysburg and its vicini- 
 ty, with whom he did not have personal religious conversation and 
 prayer. He also met a class of four young ministers weekly, 
 (three of them members of the school,) to whom he gave instruc- 
 tion and criticised their skeletons prepared for the occasion. 
 
 Varysburg had for some time been a very wicked village. In- 
 temperance, and its kindred vices, had long blighted its moral pros- 
 pects, and sectarian bigotry had paralyzed the efforts of God's min- 
 isters. Mr. Marks could find no rest for his spirit amidst such a 
 State of things. He determined to commence a series of efforts to 
 remove this pall of death, and labor with a faithfulness, which, at 
 least, should clear his garments from the blood of the people. He 
 was aware that it would be a long and severe struggle, but his trust 
 was in God, and he had faith in the power of his word. He knew 
 it to be mighty to the pulling down of the strong holds of satan. 
 Sometime in January, he commenced a protracted meeting, preach- 
 ing from two to three times a day, at the same time holding in- 
 quiry meetings, and visiting from house to house. Thus he toiled 
 for three weeks, with little apparent effect. Some of the members 
 of the church had taken hold well in the work, some backsliders 
 had been reclaimed, and a few converted. But many that were 
 serious soon after the commencement of the meeting, had harden- 
 ed their hearts ; the students, on whose minds it was evident con- 
 viction had fastened, seemed leagued together to resist religious in- 
 fluences ; the faith of Christians that they should see a revival be- 
 gan to fail, and the visible prospect of a general work was dark in- 
 deed. At this period, Mr. Marks' agony of spirit was almost over- 
 powering. He felt that if Christians relaxed their efforts, there 
 would be little hope for the spiritual welfare of Varysburg. His 
 mind was now led almost constantly to the subject of death. He 
 felt that it was about to visit the people, and so powerful was the 
 impression, that he several times mentioned in public, that he be- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 407 
 
 lieved that death was going to sweep through the place, and carry 
 mourning into many families ; and at the same time, he entreated 
 the people in the most moving and pathetic manner, to prepare for 
 its approach. A day of fasting and prayer was now held for the 
 conversion of the students ; and on this occasion, Mr. Marks preach- 
 ed a funeral sermon for the first individual of the congregation that 
 should die. It was evident that deep impressions were made, and 
 in the evening many crowded the altar for prayer, trembling, and 
 confessing their need of Christ ; and, to the great joy of Christians, 
 several professed to find pardon. The scene was glorious and aw- 
 fully solemn on account of the Divine presence ; and for a few 
 succeeding days, the place seemed almost shaken by the power of 
 God. Mr. Marks remarked that he never before saw so many in 
 one place so deeply affected by the truth, neither had he ever seen 
 so much resistance to its power. He doubted whether there was an 
 individual in the village, or within some distance of the village, that 
 was not solemnly impressed. Some dared not attend the meeting, 
 lest they should be converted ; others would leave the village un- 
 der pretence of business. Two gentlemen, of perhaps as much 
 talent and influence as any in the place, agreed, in^derision of the 
 work, that if one would arise for prayer, the other would. Accord- 
 ingly when an opportunity was presented, one of them arose ; but 
 no sooner was he on his feet, than it came powerfully to his con- 
 science, that he had gone too far in so solemn a matter, and, yield- 
 ing instantly to his convictions, he spoke almost before he was 
 aware, confessing himself a great sinner, and saying that he was 
 resolved to seek the Savior. The assembly seemed electrified, and 
 Christians began to feel that nothing was too hard for the Lord. 
 This gentleman was soon after converted, and became a zealous la- 
 borer in the work. His comrade dared not arise. Soon after- 
 wards, he too was numbered with the sincere inquirers for salva- 
 tion, and, with his wife, professed to find peace in submission to 
 Christ. The work spread amidst much opposition, till about sixty 
 were converted, including some that were entirely backslidden ; 
 and a much greater number, it was believed, resisted the convic- 
 tions of their duty. Such was the grief of Mr. Marks on this ac- 
 count, that he could hardly rejoice for the success the truth had 
 gained. During the progress of the work, still feeling deeply im- 
 pressed with the idea that the desolating tide of death was about 
 to roll through the place, he appointed another day of fasting and 
 prayer for the conversion of twelve of the most influential business 
 men in the vicinity, and on the occasion, preached a funeral ser- 
 mon for the first of the number who should die. 
 
 Immediately after the close of the protracted meeting, (which 
 continued about eight weeks,) a disease, to which the physicians 
 
408 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 gave no name, commenced its fearful ravages in this hitherto 
 healthful vale. It partook of the symptoms of spotted fever and 
 erysipelas. Its first victim was an individual who had not attend- 
 ed the meeting, consequently it could not be said that excitement 
 and exposure to evening air, originated the malady. It soon raged 
 with a most alarming fatality, and in a few days, more than thirty 
 in Varysburg and vicinity, within the limits of two miles, were sud- 
 denly hurried to eternity. One of the twelve for whom a day of 
 fasting and prayer was held, was of this number. Few families 
 were left unvisited by this dreadful sickness, and there were scarce- 
 ly persons enough in health to take care of the sick. Some lived 
 but a few hours after they were seized, and in some cases the 
 bodies were so putrid that they were obliged to be buried in five 
 or six hours after they had ceased to breathe. Those that recov- 
 ered, in many instances, regained their health very slowly. It was 
 a remarkable circumstance, and one that was frequently named, 
 that not one of the converts or the reclaimed, fell a victim to the 
 disease. Several of the number that died were Christians, and left 
 the world rejoicing. Others died without hope. After the sick- 
 ness began to rage, there were no more cases of conversion. The 
 impenitent trembled in view of this judgment, while fear and anxi- 
 ety sat upon their countenances. Still they refused to repent and 
 give glory to God. They did not know the time of their visitation ; 
 and now it seemed to be hid from their eyes. 
 
 In the month of April, 1841, Mr. Marks received a letter from 
 a brother in the city of New York, spreading out before him the 
 great field then opened for Free-will Baptists to do good in that 
 city, and urging him to occupy it without delay. He offered to be- 
 come responsible, on certain conditions, for the rent of a hall for 
 public worship, and said there would be no difficulty in raising 
 means for his support. Such was the interesting state of things at 
 Varysburg, and the victory that had been gained, had been achiev- 
 ed at such expense, that Mr. Marks did not feel at liberty to leave 
 immediately, and accordingly returned an answer that he thought 
 he would go the ensuing autumn. He soon received a reply, say- 
 ing that, on several accounts, the spring would be the most favora- 
 ble for commencing a meeting, and if he could not come immediate- 
 ly, it would be best to defer it till another spring. This he pre- 
 ferred, as it gave him more time for preparation. 
 
 In June, he attended the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, and 
 was appointed a delegate to the General Conference, which was to 
 convene the ensuing October in Topsham, Me. He was also ap- 
 pointed a delegate with two other brethren, to the New York 
 Christian Anti-slavery Convention, to meet in Auburn, June 23, 
 to deliberate on the duty of the church in regard to slavery. The 
 
DAVID MARKS. 409 
 
 yearly meeting wrote a letter to the Convention, taking high 
 ground on the slavery question. At the day appointed, more than 
 two hundred ministers and brethren, of different evangelical denom- 
 inations, assembled in the large Methodist stone chapel, where a 
 year before even an anti-slavery notice was not allowed to be read. 
 The Convention continued in session two days. The letter from 
 the Holland Purchase yearly meeting was listened to with much 
 interest by the Convention, and a vote was taken to publish it with 
 the minutes. There was much warm, interesting, and animated 
 discussion on the different resolutions, in which Mr. Marks took a 
 part, and which he briefly reported for the Morning Star. 
 
 July 4, he attended a temperance convention at Wyoming vil- 
 lage, met for forming a county society for the new county of Wy- 
 oming, recently set off from Genesee, embracing thirteen towns. 
 The assembly, amounting to about two thousand, was convened 
 under the dense foliage of an ornamental forest, belonging to the 
 mansion of Mr. J. C. Ferris. A very ingenious and interesting 
 " Declaration of Independence, and of War, against King Alcohol," 
 was drawn up much in the language of our national declaration of 
 independence. 
 
 In compliance with the invitation of several gentlemen in War- 
 saw, Mr. Marks preached a discourse with much acceptance in that 
 village on the following question : " Is it consistent with the Chris- 
 tian religion to vote for a pro-slavery candidate for any office af- 
 fecting the rights of the slave ?" His text was Exodus, 18:21. 
 " Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people, able men, such 
 as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness, and place such over 
 them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of 
 fifties, and rulers of tens." Also, 2 Sam. 23:3. " He that ruleth 
 over men must be just, ruling in the fear of the Lord." 
 
 Having made provision for supplying his two churches with 
 preaching for two months, he set out with his companion in his own 
 conveyance for the General Conference in Maine. On his journey 
 he visited his father in Tyre, and as he purposed giving him S50, 
 toward building him a small house, he concluded to make some 
 purchases of lumber for him. For this object, he went to Clyde, a 
 village on the canal, about six miles from Tyre, and as he supposed 
 was seen paying out money. He left Clyde to return to his father's 
 at eight o'clock in the evening, and after riding about half a mile 
 from the village, he got out of his carriage and passed around to 
 the back part to take out some fruit. While thus engaged, a stran- 
 ger accosted him, saying, " Sir, you must go with me. I am an 
 officer, and have a warrant for you." Without any suspicion or 
 fear, he replied, " You must- be mistaken in the person you are 
 seeking. I am a minister. My name is David Marks." " No, 
 that is the very name. I am not mistaken. You must go with me, 
 35 
 
410 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 and it will be useless for you to resist." Glancing at him, lie saw 
 by the light of the moon that he was shabbily dressed, and from all 
 the circumstances, he felt satisfied that he -was a robber. Looking 
 around, he perceived that he was in a " dug- way," surrounded by 
 woods and no house in sight. He stepped forward, caught his 
 horse's reins, and sprang on the forward end of his carriage without 
 waiting to get in. Instantly, the stranger seized his horse by the 
 bits. Mr. Marks asked him to show him his warrant. He said, 
 " I will," and putting his hand into his pocket, took out something 
 that glistened in the moon-light like bright steel, and resembled in ap- 
 pearance the muzzle of a pistol. Mr. Marks sat perfectly self-pos- 
 sessed, with the reins firmly grasped in one hand, and his whip over 
 his shoulder, watching every movement of the robber. He judged 
 that there was some difficulty about his pistol that he was unable 
 to remove with one hand. At length, he stepped directly before 
 the horse, and let go the bits. Instantly, Mr. Marks struck his 
 horse a heavy blow, at the same time, reining him a Httle one 
 side. He sprang several feet the first bound, and flew over the log 
 cross-way with great speed. When the robber saw his prey had 
 escaped, he set up a temble cry, and threw a volley of stones, 
 which, however, were harmless in their effects. After Mr. Marks 
 found himself safe, a sense of his narrow escape from a violent 
 death so overcame him that he could scarcely sit in his carriage. 
 Considerable pains were taken to detect the robber, but without 
 success. Shortly afterwards, in nearly the same place, another 
 stranger was attacked in a similar manner, by a person of a similar 
 appearance. He knocked the robber down and then fled. 
 
 Prosecuting his journey, Mr. Marks stopped a night in Peter- 
 boro' with Mr. Grerritt Smith, in whose kind family he was very 
 affectionately received, and with whom he had an exceedingly in- 
 teresting interview. The Saturday following, he arrived at Clin- 
 ton Seminary, an institution the Free-will and Free-communion 
 Baptists had recently purchased. It was free of access to all with- 
 out distinction of color, and was in a flourishing condition. Mr. 
 Marks preached four sermons in Clinton. 
 
 September 8, he attended the Free-communion Baptist General 
 Conference at Ames, Montgomery county. This Conference was 
 composed of fifty-eight churches, and was to decide the issue of the 
 negotiation that had been for some time going on, for a union with 
 the Free-will Baptists. Thirty-two of the churches reported in fa- 
 vor of union, thirteen opposed, and thirteen made no report. Con- 
 sidering the nature of the business, the session was very harmoni- 
 ous. A resolution was passed, saying that they considered the 
 names Free Baptist, Free-communion Baptist, Open-communion 
 Baptist, Free-will Baptist, as significant of the same people. Three 
 
DAVID MARKS. 411 
 
 delegates were appointed to the Free-will Baptist General Confer- 
 ence, who were instructed to present a request for the admission of 
 their churches, to membership with that body. 
 
 The ensuing Saturday evening, Mr. Marks arrived in Troy. 
 The Washingtonian temperance reform was exciting much atten- 
 tion. Learning there was a street temperance meeting, he attend- 
 ed, and being called upon by the gentleman whom he accompanied, 
 he addressed the meeting a few moments. At its close, he was re- 
 quested to lecture on temperance the next day in the street in West 
 Troy. Sabbath morning, he preached a sermon on temperance in 
 East Troy, and then attended worship in Dr. Beman's church. At 
 the close of the afternoon service, he preached on temperance in the 
 street in "West Troy, and in the evening, preached by request in 
 the Methodist chapel. The audience was large ; it was a season of 
 much solemnity and weeping, and several presented themselves for 
 prayer. Monday morning at sunrise, he gave another street lec- 
 ture in East Troy, according to a previous appointment. 
 
 Continuing his journey, he attended a few meetings by the way, 
 and lectured again on temperance in the street in East Arlington, 
 Vt., and in Pittsfield, N. H. In the latter place, he spent a week 
 with Elder D. P. Cilley, and preached a few sermons. Sabbath, 
 Oct. 3, he spent in Portsmouth. He had heard of the temperance 
 reform in that place, but was hardly prepared for the reception he 
 met, and the change he saw. Instead of the contempt and reproach 
 that he used to meet, even in the street, for the carrying out of his 
 temperance principles, the people seemed to delight to do him hon- 
 or. After preaching twice during the day, he lectured on temper- 
 ance in the public market to a large crowd. A temperance meet- 
 ing, appointed for the evening in one of the houses of worship, was 
 adjourned to the Free-will Baptist house, on learning that Mr. 
 Marks would be there. He gave them a short address, which was 
 received with much enthusiasm. Next morning, the people made 
 him up a purse of several dollars, and, as it stormed violently, they 
 gave out notice, without consulting him, that he would attend a 
 meeting in the afternoon, and industriously circulated it among the 
 sailors. But the fury of the storm abating, he could not be per- 
 suaded to remain, as he had scarcely time to reach Topsham by the 
 opening of the Conference. His road lay along the Atlantic coast. 
 The ocean was rolling tremendous waves, and with their white 
 caps, presented a more sublime and terrific spectacle than he had 
 ever before witnessed upon this great "high way of nations.** 
 Shortly afterwards, it was ascertained that many boats were 
 wrecked, and many lives lost in this dreadful gale. 
 
 October 6, 1841. At the hour appointed, the Conference opened 
 its eleventh session, and adopted rules, requiring the delegates to 
 
412 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 spend eleven hours and a half daily in session, besides the time 
 spent on committees. Forty-two delegates attended. The yearly 
 meetings reported general prosperity and more than an ordinary 
 increase. In addition to the duties of a member of the Conference, 
 Mr. Marks was reporter of their discussions, and some of the time 
 sat up nearly the whole of the night. A very interesting letter 
 was read from Mr. Pike of England, severely condemning slavery. 
 The delegates from the Free-communion Baptists presented their 
 request for the admission of their body to membership, which was 
 granted unanimously. Their number was about twenty-five hun- 
 dred. Their churches were mostly in the vicinity of Utica. 
 
 Spirited resolves were passed on the subject of Missions, Popery, 
 Moral Eeform, Education, Sabbath schools, Temperance, &c. 
 Among those passed on Temperance was the following : 
 
 " Resolved, That we advise the churches to prepare and use none 
 but unfermented wine at the Lord's Supper, and that the Clerk in- 
 sert in the minutes a recipe for preparing such wine." 
 
 The resolutions on Education recommended to the general pat- 
 ronage of the denomination the Free-will Baptist Education Socie- 
 ty (which had been recently formed,) and requested prayer for the 
 different literary institutions in operation among the churches. The 
 Conference continued its sitting for a week, but had several ad- 
 journments to attend the anniversaries of the Free-will Baptist 
 Mission Societies, Education Society, and Sabbath school Union, 
 which, for the sake of convenience, had been appointed at this time. 
 Mr. Marks reported also the discussions at these anniversaries, 
 which were very interesting, especially those of the Education So- 
 ciety, of which he then became a member. He presented a reso- 
 lution to the Society, the purport of which was, that we ought not 
 to expect that God will miraculously supply us with that knowledge 
 which can be obtained by the common use of our faculties. In its 
 support, he said: 
 
 * * * « 'pjjg ^ige jjian says ; * The heart of the prudent man 
 getteth knowledge ;' from which it would seem that instead of wait- 
 ing for God to transmit it to us without our agency, it is the busi- 
 ness of prudent men to get it. Again, says the same inspired wri- 
 ter, * The ear of the wise seeketh knowledge.' From this testimo- 
 ny, it is clear that those who do not seek knowledge are not wise. 
 That it is not sufficient that ministers be sincere and good men, is 
 clear from the word of the Lord to Jeremiah : ' And I will give 
 you pastors according to my own heart, which shall feed you with 
 knowledge and understanding.' From this, we can see how God 
 looks upon ministers who cannot feed the people with knowledge 
 and understanding : he does not consider such ministers as ' after 
 his own heart.' Another testimony from Malachi coincides with 
 
DA VII) MARKS. 413 
 
 Ihis. 'The priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they [the 
 people] should learn the law from his mouth.' There we are not 
 only told that knowledge should be kept by ministers, but also that 
 the people should learn the law from their mouth. Again, God 
 said by Hosea, * My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.* 
 Thus it was not knowledge, but the want of it, that caused their 
 destruction. A minister o^ Jesus Christ, above all other men, 
 should be the last one to plead for the neglect of study ; for it is 
 written again in Hosea, * Because thou hast rejected knowledge, I 
 will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me.' This 
 scripture is very explicit ; and as God has not changed the princi- 
 ples of his action, we can now see why some good men, who have 
 been called to the ministry, are comparatively useless in the vine- 
 yard of the Lord. They have ^ rejected knowledge ;' and for this 
 cause, God has rejected them. Let it not then be said, that the 
 friends of education have crowded those who will not study from 
 the field of usefulness. They have not done this thing. God did 
 it, because they rejected knowledge." 
 
 On the Sabbath, between the afternoon and evening service, Mr. 
 Marks preached a temperance sermon to a large congregation in 
 the street in Brunswick village, separated from Topsham by the 
 Androscoggin river. During the early part of the week, he set 
 out on his return to New York. Sabbath, October 17, he preached 
 in Portsmouth, and there learned that the missionaries, Mr. and 
 Mrs. Noyes, had just arrived from India, the health of both having 
 feiled. He had with them an interesting interview. Great anxi- 
 ety had been felt on their account, as they had been expected for 
 some time, and it was feared they had been lost in the late gale. 
 They had indeed suffered greatly, having been obliged to put out 
 to sea when within a few leagues of Boston, and had been beating 
 about for nearly three weeks, often exposed to the most imminent 
 danger. Thursday, Oct. 21, he left Dover, and preaching a few 
 times by the way, arrived in Varysburg the last of the month, and 
 was rejoiced to find that the Waslungtonian temperance reform had 
 reached this little village, and had rescued several of its inebriates.. 
 
 In the early part of November, Mrs. Marks' little neice, given 
 her by her dying mother, became a member of the family. Ever 
 after, she was a great favorite with Mr. Marks, and occupied a 
 large place in his affections. She was then a little more than two 
 years old. 
 
 Mr. Marks now resumed his labors with the churches in Varys- 
 burg and Portageville ; but as the latter place was so far from his 
 residence, it made his work too hard. The church was prospering, 
 had nearly finished their house of worship, and he persuaded them 
 to get another pastor. After the first of January, 1842, he labored 
 35* 
 
414 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 half the time till the ensuing May, with the church in Java, eigiit 
 miles from Varysburg. They had been in great trials, and despair- 
 ing of settling their affairs, concluded to disband and organize anew. 
 Accordingly they sent for Mr. Marks to aid them in their re-or- 
 ganization. He told them he thought their course unscriptural, 
 but consented to assist them, provided they would exercise disci- 
 pline, and settle their differences by tte law of Christ. He met 
 them in a protracted church meeting, which lasted about a week. 
 This resulted in the amicable adjustment of affairs with but one or 
 two cases of discipline. The church felt encouraged, and began 
 building a house of worship. He commenced a protracted meeting 
 with them, and was soon rejoiced to see a flattering prospect of 
 success. Several were awakened, some were converted, and added 
 to the church, and there were good indications of a general work, 
 when, on his return from an evening meeting, he was suddenly 
 seized with a severe distress in his stomach, and would have fallen 
 to the ground, if he had not been supported. For several days 
 following, he was confined to a bed of sickness, and, after he was 
 able to be carried home, remained very feeble for some time, though 
 he continued the discharge of his pastoral duties. 
 
 The time was drawing near, that he had appointed for going to 
 New York city, but while he was planning the necessary arrange- 
 ments, he received an unexpected call to go to a western field. 
 The Ohio and Pennsylvania yearly meetings had formed an Edu- 
 cation Society, which had resolved to get a Seminary of the first 
 order into operation, and a very earnest request was sent him to 
 come to their aid, and be their agent. He hardly knew what to do. 
 His health had for years been so frail, and exposures consequent 
 on travelling had so greatly injured him, that he had thought he 
 was firm in his purpose of settling in some place where he could 
 find labor enough to do without travelUng, and at the same time, 
 pursue a course of study, that would the better prepare him to 
 write some works for the Free-will Baptist denomination, which 
 had long been on his mind to write. New York he thought offered 
 these facilities. Now another path of usefulness was presented. 
 He had long looked upon the Western Valley with much interest, 
 and had deeply felt the need that something should be done to 
 arouse and prepare Free-will Baptist churches to act efficiently in 
 the great moral battle-field of the West. Another circumstance 
 had its influence in guiding his decision. Oberhn was in the vicin- 
 ity of this new field. He had loved it from its early settlement, 
 and, as has been already mentioned, had greatly desired to enjoy its 
 rich literary privileges, and be benefited by its high tone of piety. 
 After much consideration and prayer, he finally concluded to ac- 
 cept the call to Ohio, and make Oberlin his home for a season. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 415 
 
 In the early part of May, he made a tour to Upper Canada, 
 where he left his companion with her parents while he could visit 
 and take leave of the churches in the Holland Purchase yearly 
 meeting. From the 21st of May to the 10th of July, he visited and 
 preached with forty-six churches, attended the Genesee quarterly 
 meeting in Bennington, and the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in 
 Middlebury. The yearly meeting was deeply interesting. The 
 quarterly meetings reported revivals and more energetic action in 
 the various causes of Christian benevolence. Mr. Marks requested 
 a dismission from the yearly meeting of which he had been a mem- 
 ber more than twenty years, to unite with one of the Ohio yearly 
 meetings. A very kind and affectionate commendatory letter was 
 given him ; and, unexpectedly to him, the yearly meeting confer- 
 ence passed the following vote of thanks : 
 
 " Resolved, That we render our unfeigned thanks to Elder David 
 Marks for his services in this yearly meeting for the last twenty 
 years, and gratefully acknowledge the aid he has rendered us in 
 his indefatigable labors for the advancement of the cause of Christ 
 in this region." 
 
 A few further particulars respecting his labors and the industri- 
 ous occupancy of his time, may be gathered from the following ex- 
 tracts from his letters. 
 
 " My carriage, near Niagara Falls, U. C. May 20, 1842. 
 
 My dearly beloved wife : — 
 
 My health is good and I am happy. The 
 morning is beautiful, the road very smooth, and I commence wri- 
 ting this letter while riding in a wagon at the rate of five miles 
 per hour.^ The day I left you, especially the latter part of it, I was 
 very calm and happy. My time was spent mostly in meditations, 
 which were sweet to my soul — such as the certainty of the hope of 
 eternal life, where sickness, sorrow, labor, and pain, will be un- 
 known, and loved friends will part no more. O how sweet were 
 these reflections. What a luxury it is to the soul to contemplate 
 the ineffable glories of eternal life, not in a vague, general, and in- 
 definite manner, as by a glimmering light, but as a tangible reality, 
 an 'anchor sure and steadfast.' These sweet reflections were 
 awakened by those lonely feelings which had at first come over me, 
 in consequence of the long separation which was to take place be- 
 tween us. While my thoughts wandered over the thirteen years 
 which have passed since we first met, and lingered on that kind 
 providence which has ever attended us amidst all the changes of 
 this rapid flight of time, my heart was melted with a feeling of 
 gratitude and thankfulness which was inexpressibly sweet. 
 
416 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 As I draw near the Falls which are so celebrated I must lay- 
 aside my pen to listen to their majestic roar, gaze upon theii* awful 
 grandeur, and contemplate the greatness of their Author. 
 
 May 24. I had a pleasant time in passing the mighty cataract. 
 I crossed the Niagara the same day, and left Buffalo about 6 
 o'clock, P. M., then rode twenty seven miles by a delightful moon- 
 light, and arrived at Darien at half past eleven o'clock. 
 
 The quarterly meeting, [Genesee, at Bennington,] was attend- 
 ed by a larger number of delegates than I have seen at the quar- 
 terly meeting for many years ; and on the Sabbath, notwithstanding 
 the heavy rain, a large congregation was present. It was on the 
 whole the best quarterly session this association of churches has 
 had for years. Brother Philander W. Belknap was ordained. It 
 was my lot to preach the ordination sermon, and my soul was bap- 
 tized into the spirit of my subject. I preached my farewell dis- 
 courses at Varysburg and Orangeville the 22d of May." * * * 
 
 " My carriage, Castile, June 8, 1842. 
 My dearly beloved wife : — 
 
 The travelling of seventy miles extra^ the 
 settling of Book Concern accounts with several assistant agents, 
 the completion of my eleventh Star report, and keeping a copy of 
 the same, together with my personal business, daily appointments, 
 and travels, have occupied me so closely, that I have had little 
 sleep or rest for eight days past. Even the whole time that I have 
 been riding has been occupied in writing or arranging accounts. I 
 am getting so as to write letters to others while riding as well as to 
 my dear companion. * * * 
 
 The church in Portageville still prospers. It now numbers 
 about sixty members. I preached in Naples in the methodist 
 chapel to a very crowded house, spoke two hours and had one of 
 my best seasons. I never saw a stiller or more attentive assembly 
 for the same length of time, so far as extraneous noises were con- 
 cerned. * * * * 
 
 June 15. I found a revival in Freedom under the labors of 
 Elder Benjamin McKoon. Nine were converted the night after 
 I preached there. The church were finishing off their meeting 
 house, which was covered six years ago ! I take much comfort, 
 enjoy excellent liberty in preaching, and am kindly received in ev- 
 ery place. My old Rochester affairs are nearly settled. * * * 
 Farewell. Your affectionate husband, 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
DATID MARKS. 417 
 
 CHAPTER XXIX. 
 
 Mr. Marks' Labors in tlie cause of Christian Education, S^c, in 
 Ohio and New Hampshire, from July 1842, to Nov. 1844. 
 
 Mr. Marks gave a lecture by request in Hamburg, on the 4th of 
 July, on the duty of voters. This subject, as well as temperance, 
 education, &c., he always treated very religiously, and enforced its 
 practical obligation by arguments drawn directly from Scripture. 
 He usually selected a text, and conducted the services in the same 
 manner as any meeting of religious worship. Often these occasions 
 were melting, solemn seasons. After the close of the lecture, he 
 rode to Buffalo, met his companion returning from Canada, and 
 with her proceeded on his way to his field of labor in Ohio. 
 
 July 13. He preached in Cherry Valley, and next morning, in 
 company with Elder Ransom Dunn, (who had been instrumental 
 in engaging his services for the Western Reserve Education Soci- 
 ety,) continued his journey to Chester, Geauga county, nineteen 
 miles east of Cleaveland, the place the society had in view in which 
 to locate their Seminary. July 15, the society convened. They 
 had no funds to meet the expenses of an agent, and but extremely 
 limited collections could be immediately made. The churches 
 among which they were going to send their agent were many of 
 them but recently organized, small, comparatively poor, mostly 
 without meeting houses, and able to sustain preaching but a part of 
 the time. Mr. Marks, with his usual self-sacrificing spirit, changed 
 the terms of his services. He had stipulated to receive his pay 
 quarterly' from the society, in order to meet his expenses ; but now 
 he agreed to wait till it could be collected from the subscription he 
 might raise for the society. In addition to the agency, he accepted 
 the appointment of Corresponding Secretary. It was also decided 
 to open the school immediately at Chester. The directors pur- 
 chased eighty acres of land, designed for a manual labor farm, at a 
 cost of $1593, which was paid for with a part of $2159, which had 
 been subscribed in Chester, and $100, relinquished by the Free- 
 will Baptist Education Society in New England, from the bequest 
 of Mr. Luke Philbrick, of Chester. 
 
 Mr. Marks spent several days in getting the school into opera- 
 tion. Subscriptions for between twenty-five and thirty scholars 
 were obtained, the services of brother Asahel Nichols were secured 
 as teacher for a short season, and the school was immediately 
 opened in the Free-will Baptist chapel. Mr. Marks then visited 
 Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Branch, at that time teachers of Farmington 
 
418 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 Academy, for the purpose of engaging them as permanent teachers 
 in Chester. They removed to Chester the February following, 
 took charge of the school at the commencement of the third quarter, 
 which charge they have ever since retained. They have been very 
 faithful, laborious, and self-denying in their efforts, and have seen 
 many of their pupils converted. 
 
 In the month of August, Mr. Marks, after removing his family to 
 Oberlin, commenced a tour through the churches connected with the 
 Ohio and Pennsylvania yearly meeting. The Education Board 
 had resolved that the subscription should be opened to articles of 
 all kinds that are bought and sold, except slaves and intoxicating 
 drink, or such thmgs as would make the reception a violation of 
 principle. The following brief account of the agent's labors till the 
 last of January, 1843, is taken from an article published in the 
 Morning Star. 
 
 " In the month of August, 1842, I commenced a tour through 
 the churches belonging to the Ohio and Pennsylvania yeai'ly meet- 
 ing, and in three weeks visited and preached with twenty churches, 
 and raised a subscription of S2007,85. Not the first word of op- 
 position did I hear from a single individual in these churches. * * 
 In Pennsylvania, the most sanguine expectations were more than 
 realized ; for, notwithstanding the churches were nearly all new, 
 small, and poor, there was, according to their ability, a greater lib- 
 erality among them than among the churches in Ohio, for in twen- 
 ty-seven churches that were visited, SI 298. were subscribed. In- 
 deed, in some instances, poor females that had large families, came 
 forward with tears, and wished to subscribe a dollar per year to be 
 paid in knitting. Others wished to subscribe on condition that 
 health would permit, and others on condition that they could pay 
 their subscriptions without distressing their dependents. One 
 brother subscribed ninety dollars, his wife ten dollars, to be paid in 
 knitting, and his eldest daughter, fourteen years of age, ten dollars 
 more, to be paid in the same way. But when I understood that 
 this brother was worth but about S800. my heart was touched, and 
 I said to him, that I feared he had been excited, and had subscribed 
 too much, and I would allow him, if he chose, to lessen his subscrip- 
 tion. He replied, ^ No, brother, I have not subscribed too much. For 
 years, I have trembled at the increased corruption of political par- 
 ties, which threatens our country with the subversion of all its lib- 
 erties. No ray of light or hope has dawned on my mind until the 
 subject of a sanctified education was introduced. Here there is 
 light, hope, and prospect. What I have subscribed is not all I in- 
 tend to do, if the Lord prosper me.' This brother had right views 
 of the subject. O that our churches were filled with such men. 
 On the 18th of January, 1843, I finished a tour through the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 419 
 
 Ohio Northern yearly meeting, which had occupied seven weeks, 
 having preached to about sixty churches on the subject of educa- 
 tion, and raised a subscription of S4770. Total in the two yearly 
 meetings, $10,579.* More than one half of this subscription is 
 payable either in cash or its equivalent, and it is probable, accord- 
 ing to the usual failures in subscriptions, cost of collection, trans- 
 portation, &c., that not more than one-third, or at most, two-fifths 
 need be deducted from this sum, to get the amount which will be 
 actually returned to the Society over and above all expenses, losses, 
 failures, &c. It is also probable that a foundation is laid for increas- 
 ed subscriptions every year, not only from those whose hearts God 
 may yet enlarge, but also fix)m converts that will be added to our 
 churches. Eighteen building lots have been rented by the Institu- 
 tion for ten years, to individuals intending to erect small private or 
 family boarding houses the present year." 
 
 The following are extracts from his letters written to his com- 
 panion during these labors : 
 
 " Fairfield, Pa. Sept. 16. 
 * * I have travelled eleven miles this morning, and 
 for the first two hours busied myself in reciting the rules of my 
 Latin grammar. * * * My health is about as usual, except 
 my bronchitis is better, much better, while there is an increase of 
 the weakness of my stomach, and of exhaustion upon exercise. I 
 feel that I hold my life on a slender thread, and its continuance is 
 on probation. Sometimes I think I will return home and attend 
 to my health, to the neglect of every thing else. Then again, I 
 seem to think I am foolish, and easily alarmed, so that what would 
 be nothing to another, affects my weak nerves. But, blessed be 
 God, there is a home, sweet home, the eternal rest of the redeem- 
 ed, where loved ones will part no more, and where sickness will be 
 a stranger. * * * 
 
 Sept. 13, I am now through visiting the churches of the Craw- 
 ford quarterly meeting. There are eight in all. I have visited 
 six. I attended a session of their quarterly meeting last Saturday 
 and Sabbath at Deer Creek. My mission was kindly received. I 
 preached three times on the Sabbath, and three or four professed 
 to be converted Sabbath evening. 
 
 Huron Village, November 28. I am now at the house of 
 
 , one of the richest men in this part of the country, and till 
 
 seven months since one of the wickedest men. Then a fit of sick- 
 ness brought him to repentance, which he has lately confessed for 
 the first time. Brother C and myself are, this night, probably 
 
 * A part of this subscription was payable in annual installments for the ten ensuing 
 yeans. 
 
420 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 the first ministers that were ever invited into his house, and this 
 evening probably the first vocal prayer was made under his roof. 
 We have had a very good quarterly meeting. [Lake Erie quar- 
 terly meeting.] This evening, eleven came to the anxious seat, 
 one of whom found peace." ****** 
 
 Toward the last of December, Mr. Marks returned home. He 
 had discovered a bloating in his limbs, which a physician, whom he 
 consulted, said was merely a result of the debility of his system. 
 He wrote : 
 
 " New Haven, Huron Co. Jan. 2, 1843. Through the goodness 
 of the Lord, I am in usual health, except the bloating of my limbs, 
 which I think increases a little. I hope, however, that it is but the 
 result of the inactive state of my system, from which I hope to re- 
 cover when my nerves become strengthened. My medicines, I 
 think, are producing a good effect. My stomach is certainly much 
 stronger, and acidity is almost a stranger to it. The difficulty in 
 my throat has entirely disappeared. O, dear companion, thank the 
 Lord with me for these favorable omens, and yet let us be prepar- 
 ed for whatever chastening the Lord may be pleased to send upon 
 us, remembering that whom he loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth 
 every son whom he receiveth. 
 
 Yesterday, I preached three times to crowded congregations, and 
 had very good seasons. Twenty-two came forward and kneeled 
 for prayer, nearly all of whom spoke. Eighteen of these and forty- 
 two others [professors] covenanted to kneel and pray tliree times 
 a day for a year. I think a revival will follow. I commenced the 
 year by a new consecration of myself to God, and a renewed prom- 
 ise to live by my good rules and resolutions. Perhaps this year 
 may make an inroad in our happy family, but I trust we are all 
 like minute men, and shall be ready when our Lord shall call. 
 
 I am, as usual, busy, very busy. How is it that I always have 
 my hands full ? When I think I will do less, and, for the recoveiy 
 of my health, live easy, it is true, as you have often told me, I do 
 not know how. Lifinite toils are needed in this wicked world, and 
 as I see that a little labor here, and a little labor there will do 
 good, I feel a sort of uncontrollable, impelling power, urging me 
 on, and before I am aware, I am loaded with cares and responsi- 
 bilities." 
 
 " Grand township, Marion quarterly meeting, Jan. 5, 1843. * * 
 The day after mailing my last letter to you, I went to Bucyrus ; 
 and as my limbs were swollen the night before worse than I had 
 ever seen them, I called on a physician, to learn ^whether I had the 
 dropsy. In answer to my questions, he said I had no symptoms of 
 dropsy, though my debility, if not removed, might, in two or three 
 years, terminate in either dropsy or consumption. He said my liv- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 421 
 
 er is very inactive, and the bloating of my limbs proceeds from the 
 inactive state of my blood. He thought the course of medical 
 treatment I was pursuing, as directed by Dr. Vanort, would cure 
 me. 
 
 January 8, We have had a good quarterly meeting ; my health 
 improves. In twelve days and twenty hours, I hope to see my 
 dear family in my sweet home ; yet, if disappointment awaits me, 
 may the Lord prepare me for it. 
 
 Your more than ever affectionate husband, 
 
 D, Marks." 
 
 About the last of January, Mr. Marks suspended for a few 
 months his travels for the Western Reserve Education Society, 
 and made arrangements for the commencement of his studies at 
 Oberlin. He engaged to preach statedly with four churches, two 
 of them eight miles, one of them nine, and the other twenty miles 
 from Oberlin, spending with them about three days in a week, in- 
 cluding the Sabbath. These churches were to raise $300, per year 
 for his support. At the commencement of the term of the Oberlin 
 Institute, February 1, 1843, he joined a class, and began anew his 
 study of the Latin and Greek languages, preaching according to his 
 engagements, occasionally holding other meetings in adjacent neigh- 
 borhoods, and superintending the building of a small house. He 
 was not only able to go on with his class, but, even under these cir- 
 cumstances, his health rapidly improved. Formerly, when he 
 travelled, as night came on, he had laid his book aside, except when 
 the full moon shone, but now he adopted the expedient of carrying 
 a lantern, and studying by its light, as he returned from his even- 
 ing meetings. Three months thus passed very happily with him 
 in his studies and labors. Indeed, he seemed to enjoy life exceed- 
 ingly. He had, in the mean time, from different sections, many and 
 urgent calls ; but, with a perseverance unexampled in his former 
 history, he was enabled to say " No," a word he often remarked 
 he had never before learned to say. One of these, however, not- 
 withstanding his strong resolution, made him pause. It was a call 
 from the Trustees of Strafford Academy, in New Hampshire, writ- 
 ten in their behalf by Elder Place. The Institution was so in- 
 volved that it was feared it would be lost. He wrote the following 
 reply : 
 
 '' Oberlin, 0. March 10, 1843. 
 My Dear Brother : — 
 
 Yours of the 27th ult., directed to Chester, was received 
 
 yesterday at this place — the place of my fixed residence for a number of 
 
 years, if I live. I must answer your letter briefly, as I have to attend 
 
 to study ten hours to-day, and besides have to travel eighteen miles to the 
 
 36 
 
4^12 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 mouth of the Vermillion river, and preach three hours on baptism accord- 
 ing to a previous engagement. 
 
 I am now settled in Oberlin, with a fixed and unalterable determina- 
 tion, if the Lord will, to pursue those studies needful for preparing me 
 to enter college — then to take a thorough and regular course through 
 college and theology. I have not blundered into these purposes. They 
 are not the result of any sudden excitement, but of careful, prayerful, 
 and sincere examination of duty for years. I take this course from the 
 full conviction that I can do far more good, if I should live but a few 
 years after its completion, than I could accomplish in any other way. 
 * * * I have now only to say, that until I change my views of duty, 
 no consideration will induce me to abandon my studies, nor leave them, 
 even temporarily, unless I should have evidence that it is to accomplish 
 some great work for the public good, which no other man can be found 
 to do, under existing circumstances. If I knew that no other man could 
 be and would be obtained to save the Institution, I cannot say that I 
 would not leave my studies for three or four or even six months to ac- 
 complish such a work. But on no other grounds would I listen to any 
 proposals, nor to any inducements whatever. I am poor, and probably 
 always shall be — and should be, if I had an income of $ 2000, a year, 
 but mere pecuniary offers would not induce me to go. If the Institution 
 has been, and now is, conducted on right and Christian principles, I 
 have no doubt that I have arguments and measures that would clear it 
 from its embarrassments, and set it on a sure foundation in from three to 
 six months. * * * * I would not think a moment of the great, 
 and trying, and painful self-denial of leaving my dear family in my fee- 
 ble health to go to your aid, were it not from fear that the Institution 
 will not be saved. I entreat that every measure may be taken that is 
 possible, and that no dependence be made upon me, except as a last re- 
 sort. I would rather not go at $2000, a year if I could avoid it, and 
 not sin against God and my beloved connexion, for I have an object in 
 view higher than any money concern." After making several propo- 
 sitions, he added : " After all, I dare not say that I would go were all 
 these conditions fulfilled. My studies and my age — my health, the 
 wants of the Western Reserve Education Society, and the churches to 
 which I preach, make me hesitate, and close in haste, with a fervent 
 prayer that God will direct." # # * 
 
 In the mean time, brother J. J. Butler, Principal of Clinton Sem- 
 inary, N. Y. wrote him thus : " If you can save Straffoi^ Academy 
 by three months, six months, or a year's labor, I think you ought to 
 engage in its behalf. And I am inclined to suppose you might. 
 Could you place the pecuniary affairs of your Seminary in Ohio in 
 such a train, that you could safely leave them, you would accom- 
 plish a great and good work in rescuing the Institution at Strafford. 
 I hope to hear that you comply with their request, provided you 
 can do it without thereby sacrificing the Ohio Institution. You 
 must be pretty busily employed with all your cares and responsi- 
 feilities. You need wonderful faculties to do justice to them all," 
 
 Soon afterwards, Mr. Marks received the following : 
 
DAVID HARKS. 423 
 
 " Strafford Centre, N. H. April 17, 1843. 
 My Dear Brother Marks : — 
 
 Yours of the 16th ult. has been duly received and laid before 
 our Trustees. At their meeting held on the 15th inst. I was authorized 
 to answer your letter, and present to you the views and feelings of our 
 Board. * * * » O, brother Marks, we do not wish to flatter you. 
 God forbid. The sole and only cause why we have troubled you with 
 our request, is, that we do believe that, under God, you are the only 
 man that we have any knowledge of in our denomination, that can save 
 our literary Institution. 
 
 The Catholics have at last formally invaded New England. A large, 
 expensive, and splendid edifice is now in progress at Worcester, Mass., 
 forty miles from Boston, for a college of Jesuits ! ! and yet nine-tenths 
 of the numerous host of Free-will Baptists in this state are asleep — 
 asleef on the subject of Christian education, while the enemy, in solid 
 phalanx, will soon overtake them, when it will be too late for repen- 
 tance. O, brother, I say it in the fear of God, that while I write this, 
 streaming tears flow in torrents from my weeping eyes, and my prayer 
 is, that God may direct us all in the way of duty. I am reading D'Au- 
 bigne's History of the Reformation. It is a rich repast, and had it not 
 been for a sanctified education, in the hand of God, the world would have 
 slept on till this time in Papal darkness, and you, and I, and millions of 
 others, have finally gone to hell. We believe that the call we make up- 
 on you is from God, and that his holy hand is in it. * * * * * 
 
 Our wish is that you become our sole agent. O do come, do, do, for 
 Grod's sake, come to our help. 1 do not say this to move your passions. 
 The whole truth is summed up in these few words — the Board of Trus- 
 tees believe, beyond a doubt, that you alone can save the Institution, and 
 if you cannot come, no other man can do it. # * » * 
 
 Yours, in the best of bonds, E. Place." 
 
 This letter was an appeal that Mr. Marks had not in the power 
 of his heart to withstand. He laid the subject before his teacher, 
 and the President of the college, and asked their advice. They 
 thought it unfortunate for him at his time of life to fall back a year 
 in his studies ; but conceded, that probably under existing circum- 
 stances it was his duty to go to New Hampshire. After this con- 
 sultation, he wrote immediately to the Trustees an aflinnative an- 
 swer, and sent on a list of appointments. He wrote also a very 
 pithy appeal to the New Hampshire churches, which he closed with 
 a brief outline of the plan of his agency. He said in this article, 
 ^' Don't forget that I am to preach — not merely lecture, but preach 
 the blessed gospel, that this is the only part I have any thing to do 
 with in relation to education." 
 
 There were at this time three young Free-will Baptist ministers 
 pursuing a course of study at Oberlin, in whose welfare Mr. Marks 
 felt much solicitude, which they ever aflTectionately reciprocated. 
 On the morning of the day of his departure, he received the follow- 
 ing note from one of them. 
 
424 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 * # # * a Permit me, dear brother Marks, to charge you to be 
 careful of your health. You are aware that we have reason to fear that 
 the arduous task before you may prove too much for one in your state, 
 and with your strength of constitution. As far as human observation 
 can go, there seems to me lo be a long chain of reasons why you should 
 be spared to the Free-will Baptist church yet many years. Those of 
 us in this place, who belong to that branch of the church, cannot but 
 feel deeply solicitous. An educated and holy ministry we must have, 
 or we shall cease to exert a saving influence as a denomination. You 
 know how strongly the tide of opposition sets against us, who have 
 come to this place, and how necessary to us, under God, are your 
 strength and influence. May God have you in his holy keeping is the 
 prayer of your brother in Christ, H. E. Whipple." 
 
 Tuesday, June 6, he bade adieu to his family, expecting to be 
 absent four months. He wrote : — 
 
 " Boston, Mass. Monday, June 12. I reached this city, 764 miles 
 from Oberlin, after travelling fifty-seven hours and twenty-two minutes, 
 and stopping thirty hours and forty-eight minutes. Sabbath morning, I 
 preached in Charlestown to Elder Jackson's congregation, and had an 
 excellent time. In the afternoon, I preached to the Free-will Baptist 
 church in Boston, and had a far better season than in the morning ; in- 
 deed, one of my best. About two hundred and fifty were present, and 
 they seemed deeply and solemnly impressed. 
 
 I am in good health and most excellent spirits. I have been quite 
 happy to-day, though affection to my much loved family has forced a 
 few sighs and some tears from me. Farewell. 
 
 Your ever affectionate husband, David Marks." 
 
 On entering upon his labors, he found obstacles of which he had 
 no idea, and his prospects of success seemed dark indeed. He 
 wrote : — 
 
 '* NoRTHWOOD, June 19, 1843. 
 My Dearly Beloved Wife : — 
 
 Happy should I be, could I write you good tidings — tidings 
 which would comfort that heart which is so worthy of consolation ; but 
 you have learned that ' man is bom to affliction, as the sparks that 
 fly upwards' — that this is not the place of our rest. The most 
 painful news I have, and which saddens me because it must sad- 
 den my dearest earthly friend, is, that I have been sick, quite 
 that when I reached Strafford, I kept my bed, except when I went to 
 my meetings. However, I soon got better, for I could sleep from ten 
 to thirteen hours per day, and have ever since, as I find this the best 
 medicine I can take. I never before slept ^o much with such perfect 
 ease, insomuch that sometimes I have been almost alarmed on account 
 of my stupidity. 
 
 Another subject, and one which I do not know how to approach so as 
 to prevent paining you, is, my agency. To tell you the plain truth, and 
 to tell you the worst at once, I have now little doubt that it must and 
 will prove an entire failure, by which I shall lose my time, and I think 
 
DAVID MARKS. 425 
 
 all my expenses, except my mere travelling expenses. 1. Millerism has 
 done much, and so far as that is believed, I can do nothing. 2. My ap- 
 pointments are in a busy time for farmers. 3. There is a general dis- 
 like to the Trustees running in debt to build a boarding house. 4. 
 There is great complaint on account of the location. 5. There is a 
 great dislike to agents — a supposition that they have very high wages, 
 and that former agents have run off with the money, and many have 
 said for a long time, ' I'll never give any thing more to an agent.' 6. 
 Deep rooted prejudices have settled in many hearts against the Strafford 
 Institution, they know not why ; so that while I can carry all before 
 me as to education, and move my assemblies to a flood of tears, I 
 can make no impression in behalf of Strafford Academy. I find much 
 more sympathy for myself than for the institution. I think some 
 of cutting my agency short, and returning home sooner than I in- 
 tended. I shall strive to get a meeting of the Trustees and ask advice. 
 I have now told you all my trouble, because I promised to do so ; but 
 it has been hard work ; yet I know you can bear up under afflictions, 
 even better than I do. * * * 
 
 Your affectionate husband, David Marks." 
 
 Mr. Marks prosecuted his labors amidst these and other dis- 
 couragements. So inveterate were the prejudices against the ob- 
 ject of his agency, that many would not go to hear a word on this 
 subject. Others that out of respect to him, would listen to a lec- 
 ture, were careful to leave their money at home, lest their feel- 
 ings should be touched, and they should be induced to give some- 
 thing. In some instances, however, their precaution only gave 
 them trouble, as their consciences would not let them leave till they 
 had borrowed money and contributed. Hoping to arouse tlie 
 churches to a sense of their duty, Mr. Marks resorted to the expe- 
 dient of publishing a weekly reports of his labors in a tabular form, 
 giving the names of the churches, the number of members, number 
 of hearers, sums subscribed, and sums paid, to which he added re- 
 marks either of censure or commendation. The following was in 
 connection with his seventh weekly report : 
 
 " One cause of the little interest felt in education, is manifest by the 
 following note which was attached to my carriage by a man that listen- 
 ed to my discourse ten minutes and went off apparently angry. I copy 
 perfectly verbatim, letter for letter, <SfC, 
 
 'Jesus Christ tasted death for every Man it is not for you to Say who shall Be Saved 
 you told Me that you came to Preach the doctrine of Jesus Christ Jesus Christ Never 
 Sent any man out A Begin for Money to Raise up Ministers, Doctors Nor Lawyers, Nor 
 Judges Nor divils if you want Money you go to work and em it what money we have 
 hear we want for our own yoose Bee off yoor Self.' 
 
 Now, though no Christian would exhibit the spirit of the above wri- 
 ting, yet its principal sentiments are practically acted out by a large 
 portion of church members. The great error contained in this paper, 
 is a common and extensive one. It consists in the assumption that great 
 principles are not obligatory, and to be carried out, unless God has point- 
 ed out precisely the thousand best methods which would arise in differ- 
 36* 
 
426 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ent ages and nations, and specified these very methods by definite names 
 in all the dialects of earth. God has enjoined great principles through- 
 out the whole Bible on every question which can interest man. In re- 
 lation to education, the principle enjoined is, that we should ' study,' 
 ' learn,' ' increase in learning' in every thing visible and invisible which 
 God has created, giving to every part of his works that proportion of at- 
 tention and affection which its value demands. Hence it is an undeni- 
 able inference, that well regulated academies and colleges, being among 
 the best methods of obedience to God in relation to the study of several 
 parts of his works and truths, are well pleasing to God. They are ex- 
 pressly designed to develope our faculties, and train our intellects, so as 
 to fit us by a knowledge of the works and truths of God to do good here, 
 and finally sit down with Christ in his throne, judge angels, and judge 
 the world. But if words, instead of principles, are to be our rules of ac- 
 tion, then we should abandon temperance, mission, and Bible societies, 
 family prayer. Sabbath schools, prayer, conference, church, monthly, 
 quarterly, and yearly meetings, because their names are not found in the 
 Bible ; and as Jesus Christ never, in so many words, said any thing 
 against drinking whiskey, rum, gin, brandy, &c., nor against circuses, 
 horse races, theatres, houses of ill fame, free masonry, and slavery, 
 all opposition to these and a thousand other kindred vices not known in 
 the Scriptures by the names under which they are designated among us, 
 should cease asunscriptural." 
 
 Mr. Marks wrote to liis companion as follows : 
 
 " Enfield, July 3, 1843. My health, praise God, is, for me, extreme- 
 ly and astonishingly good. I preach and speak publicly five or six 
 hours daily, seemingly with as much ease as the moving of a clock. I 
 have got my soul baptized into my mission, so that I am more success- 
 ful than I feared I should be. My meetings are attended with much weep- 
 ing, and often with powerful feelings. # # # # 
 
 Manchester, N. H. July 10. I am, through the blessing of God, in 
 excellent health, though last week I preached thirteen sermons, averag- 
 ing two hours each, and yesterday three more in brother Cilley's church, 
 
 Dover, July 24. A week ago to-night, I met with the Trustees at 
 StraflTord, and obtained facts which will help me in my agency. Mat- 
 ters, so far as I can learn, have been managed well. I have now little 
 doubt that I shall save the Institution, though I may have to come a three 
 months' tour again. 
 
 You wrote that brother N and other western brethren think the 
 
 remarks in the weekly reports of my agency are too severe, and calcu- 
 lated to make me enemies, &c. Brother N. and our western brethren 
 can scarcely form an idea of the disorganizing stuff and want of princi- 
 ple, which have called for the merited severity of my reports. My 
 opinion is that they are doing much good, and that though some assem- 
 blies may have been smaller on this account, a much greater number 
 have been larger. My success has been increasing from the commence- 
 m.ent of my reports in the Star, I aim to be just to right principles, 
 let the immediate effect be what it may. Great principles are concern- 
 ed. I have the approbation of our most intelligent men in my severity, 
 
DAVID MARKS, 427 
 
 Still there are good men that think it injudicious. The reports are 
 arousing a good deal of sensibility. Thribble is paid down in a week 
 now to what there was when I began. This shows that conscience is 
 aroused. * # # j think the Institution will be redeemed. 
 
 But if it is lost, there will arise a re-action that will produce more prin- 
 ciple as to education. My success I do not measure by dollars. Very 
 many converts are made to right principles. I have reason to believe 
 that very few go from my meetings with anything like those feelings 
 with which they came. The seed is abundant and will produce fruit. 
 
 I rejoice to hear of the good preaching and spiritual times at Oberlin, 
 May God preserve me to be blessed by such seasons there. I greatly 
 rejoice to hear, my precious wife, of their influence on your own mind, 
 and of the increase of your confidence in God. O, I thank Heaven for 
 this. I am exceedingly interested in the account you wrote me of Pro- 
 fessor Finney's Pastoral lectures on the qualifications of ministers' 
 wives. Brother Burr thinks your report would do good in the Star. If 
 you have any objection to its publication, write me. # * * 
 Farewell. . I remain as ever, 
 
 Your aflfectionate and confiding husband — a happy one indeed. 
 
 D. Marks." 
 
 " Lisbon, Monday, Aug. 23. I hope, my dear wife, you have grace to 
 reconcile you to any mere earthly affliction, that God shall permit to 
 come upon you, knowing that there is not a sorrow which God does not 
 design to work for our good. This letter will cause you unwelcome 
 pangs ; but let me assure you that I am happy in the Lord , and cheer- 
 fully resigned though I am mostly confined to my bed by a severe at- 
 tack of inflammatory rheumatism. 
 
 Last Tuesday, August 22, I started in a moderate rain to go twenty- 
 three miles to Gorham : but having a covered carriage, a thick buffalo 
 skin, and a thickly lined borrowed cloak, I did not anticipate the least 
 danger ; but on the way, the rain increased to a shower : my buffalo 
 skin got wet perfectly through, and my clothes damp, but not much wet, 
 and the rain soaked through my carriage top. Though my health was 
 as usual, I stopped, thinking it not safe for me to attempt to reach my 
 next appointment. The next day toward night, I felt some rheumatic 
 affection about my right knee. Thursday it increased, and was accom- 
 panied with swelling. I went, however, to Concord, Vermont, thirteen 
 miles, and preached sitting. Friday, I went to Lisbon and preached, 
 but I passed a night of great distress. I felt now that I was actually 
 sick for the first time in the absence of my dear companion, who, under 
 God, has blessed me und comforted me so much in my scenes of sick- 
 ness and nervous prostration. I imagined erysipelas — white swelling — 
 that I should be a cripple for life, or that mortification must set in and 
 death follow — that I should never see my dear family any more in this 
 world. [You know my nervous hob-goblins so well that these things 
 will not frighten you.] This night, I had two watchers attending con- 
 stantly upon me, brushing, rubbing, fanning, &c. At four o'clock in 
 the morning, I sent for a physician of some celebrity residing in Lisbon, 
 a member of the church and a man of prayer. Saturday 1 was some 
 better, and Sabbath both the physician and my friends would have me 
 carried out to preach. I spoke to about four hundred people. The 
 
428 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 physician has visited me three times a day. I have now little pain, and 
 I hope to be able to leave safely the last of the week. My right limb is 
 almost useless, and I have to get about with crutches. My symptoms 
 are all favorable, but you know a swelled joint demands that patience 
 have her perfect work. # # # 
 
 September 2. Thanks to our Heavenly Father, yesterday I was 
 strengthened to get up from my sick-bed and ride forty-eight miles, and 
 this without doing me any injury. A young man came with me to as- 
 sist me, and I went to bed twice by the way. With care and prudence, 
 I hope now to meet my appointments. 
 
 September 18. My health is still improving, though I can walk or 
 stand very little ; but my pi:eaching powers, thank Heaven, never seem' 
 ed so little fatigued by immense labor. I have a great deal to do, and I 
 have to labor hard to take what sleep nature requires. The excitement 
 occasioned by my longing for sweet home and the bosom of my family, 
 as I draw near the time of my return, is so intense that I find it difficult 
 to sleep." 
 
 Mr. Marks was in the habit of holding correspondence with his 
 little favorite Julia, who in her turn often dictated very amusing re- 
 plies. The following, wTitten about this period, is a specimen of 
 his letters to her. 
 
 " My dear little precious daughter Julia Marilla : — I was so glad to get 
 your sweet little letter that I cried-— shed tears on it. I want to see you so 
 much that I weep now. I can't help it. O how my heart beats at the 
 thought of you. I feel as though I could almost fly to see you. 
 O, 1 w^as very glad to hear that you are a good girl, and that 
 you pray daily, and pray for me. If you could see me, you would 
 cry to see how lame I aTi. I walk with crutches. O you would 
 pity me much if you could see me. You know your * dear papa' was 
 to be gone sixteen Mondays. [She always reckoned the time of his ab- 
 sence from home by the number of Mondays.] Well, precious pet, they 
 are nearly all past. In two more Mondays and five days, I hope 
 to see you in Cleveland. If mamma thinks best will you come with 
 her to meet me ? Good by, dear daughter. 
 
 Your Papa." 
 
 The following were among the remarks, appended to Mr. 
 Marks' concluding weekly report. 
 
 *' Near the close of my agency, a report went' out that I was to re* 
 ceive thirty-three per cent, on all the subscriptions I obtained. Some 
 brethren of good judgment (in cases where they had no bias,) actually 
 believed that the Trustees, with all their personal embarrassments for 
 the Institution, were about to give me seven hundred dollars for thir- 
 teen weeks' work, and actually used this as an argument to prevent in- 
 dividuals from coming to my appointments, or giving any thing to the 
 object of my agency. Hoping to modify, in some measure, the preju- 
 dices of such as have not enough of the charity which thinketh no evil, 
 I will state a few facts, leaving them to judge how much real founda- 
 tion there has been for this report, and for slanders of the above cast, 
 
DAVID MARKS. 429 
 
 which the devil always puts in circulation against benevolent Institu- 
 tions. 
 
 I have raised a subscription of $2006,74, of which $863,22 were 
 paid besides $60, collected on old subscriptions. The raising and col- 
 lecting of these sums cost me as follows : — 1600 miles travel by public 
 conveyance, 1518 miles by private carriage, 138 sermons, averaging 
 two hours and four minutes each, 394 hours mental labor, close appli- 
 cation to accounts, &c. If thirty miles travel by private carriage — 
 one hundred miles by public conveyance — eight hours close mental la- 
 bor, and one sermon of one hour's length, are each enough for a day's 
 labor on an average, I have rendered 349 days service for the Institu- 
 tion in four and a half months.* For this service I have received but 
 $78,97 over and above what I have paid out for mere travelling and 
 agency expenses, or suffered in losses unavoidably resulting directly 
 from my service, not including wear of clothes, time, or family expens- 
 es. I make not this statement for complaint, for I am satisfied, not only 
 that the Trustees gave me all they should have given me, but also that 
 in this respect I have fared better than agents generally, excepting those 
 of older and wealthier denominations." 
 
 As Mr. Marks was about leaving Strafford, the following reso- 
 lution passed by the Board of Trustees was handed him : 
 
 " Resolved^ That the exertion, zeal, and untiring industry of El- 
 der David Marks, in his agency in procuring subscriptions and dona- 
 tions for the Strafford Academy, entitle him to the thanks and highest 
 regards of the Trustees for the diligent and faithful manner in which 
 he has conducted his agency. Daniel Winkley, 
 
 Secretary of the Board of Trustees, pro tem.^^ 
 
 Mr. Marks arrived at Oberlin, October 6th, in very feeble health, 
 having had another attack of sickness in Boston, which, during 
 nearly his whole journey, obliged him to accept the almost con- 
 stant care of a brother who was accompanying him to Ohio. 
 When he was in ^bany he had a very interesting interview with 
 Mr. Charles T. Torrej, (the recent martyr in the cause of human- 
 ity,) and purchased of him several thousand copies of the second 
 number of the Monthly Patriot, containing an article written by 
 himself, entitled, " War of Slavery on Northern commerce and 
 agriculture." This article he read aloud on the steam-boat (having 
 previously obtained permission) during its passage from Buffalo to 
 Cleveland. There were several slaveholders on board, though 
 he was not then aware of it, and so much excitement was produc- 
 ed that for a time he viewed himself in danger. 
 
 His engagements for the Western Reserve Education Society 
 allowed him no time for rest. He had already one hundred and 
 twelve appointments notified in the Ohio and Pennsylvania church- 
 es, covering the ground he went over the preceding autumn, which 
 
 * This period includes the time spent in going to New Hampshire, and returning ; also, 
 the time spent in writing previous to his departure from Oberlin. 
 
450^ MEMOIRS OF 
 
 would occupy his time till the 12th of January. Besides, he was 
 depending on the avails of his agency then due him, (and for 
 which he had consented to wait till it could be collected from the 
 subscription,) for the immediate support of himself and family. 
 The Education Society was also in pressing want of funds, as they 
 had commenced a large building for the Seminary. They had re- 
 fused the charter granted them by the Ohio Legislature on ac- 
 count of a clause prohibiting them from extending equal privileges 
 to the people of color, and had directed Mr. Marks, as their agent, 
 to circulate among the churches a petition, requesting the repeal of 
 the restriction.* He thought, under the circumstances, that it was 
 duty to go forward ; but his toils were excessively fatiguing. The 
 season, it was said by the oldest inhabitants, was the most unpleas- 
 ant of any that had been known since the settlement of the coun- 
 try. It rained almost daily for several weeks, and the travelling 
 through the deep mud of the clay roads of Ohio, can only be con- 
 ceived by those who saw them. The Society fitted out a two horse 
 wagon and a man to accompany their agent. But on account of 
 the state of the roads, it was impossible for him to reach several 
 of his appointments, and at a number of those he did reach, he 
 found small congregations, the people not expecting him, suppos- 
 ing that he could not travel. Still he toiled on, riding sometimes 
 till twelve or one o*clock at night, doing what he could, till the ear- 
 ly part of January, when he found himself so worn down, and so 
 ill, that it was an utter impossibility to fill his remaining appoint- 
 ments. He now engaged a brother to go in his stead, and resign- 
 ed himself to rest.t But repose failed to invigorate his system as 
 it had formerly done. Its elasticity seemed gone. His limbs bloat- 
 ed badly, and it caused him much distress even to walk across his 
 f oom. After the lapse of a few days, he gave #^ nearly all hopes 
 of recovery, yet he was very calm and happy in his mind. He 
 wrote several farewell letters to his relatives and friends, from 
 Some of which the following few extracts are taken. 
 
 [To Miss M Turner, Arlington, Vt.] 
 
 *' Oberlin, Feb. 28, 1844. 
 My dear Aunt : — 
 
 * * * * I am now confined mostly to my room — have 
 given up all my studies, and do not often go out even to meeting. 
 What little strength I have, is occupied mostly in arranging my papers, 
 so that should I not recover, they may occasion my dear companion as 
 little trouble as possible. Mrs. Marks is strong in the faith that I shall 
 
 * The Legislature, at their ensuing session, granted them such a charter as they de- 
 sired. 
 
 t This was the laat of Mr. Marks' labors for the Western Reserve Education Society. 
 The Institution at Chester has continued to prosper. During the term closing Nov. 
 1845, it had 100 students. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 431 
 
 yet get well. I am not. But my mind is calm, and I have peace like 
 a river. 'Forme to live is Christ; to die would be gain.' I have 
 looked death in the face, surveyed its terrors, carefully reviewed my 
 past life in view of my approaching dissolution, and think I am not mis- 
 taken in saying, ^ All is well.'' While now my labors are closing up 
 and coming in review preparatory to my final change, it is to me a great 
 satisfaction, that I feel a sweet consciousness of having acted on the 
 principle of entire consecration to God — that neither the love of honor, 
 popularity, nor interest, have ever influenced me to withhold needful 
 truths, nor to daub with untempered mortar, crying, ' Peace, peace, 
 where God has not spoken peace.' * * O how sweet it is to feel 
 that God — the everlasting God — is my Father, my Friend, and my ever- 
 lasting portion. Surely in Him there is fullness of joy, and at his 
 right hand are pleasures forevermore. # * # 
 
 I have means to be comfortable for a few months : if health does not 
 amend, I must then subsist on the kindness of friends, of whom I have 
 many, and they will not suffer me to want, after I feel that I need to 
 ask help ; and as to this 1 shall feel no delicacy, believing I have ren- 
 dered faithful service to the public these twenty-three years, much of 
 which yet remains temporally unrewarded. I may recover. If so, I 
 intend by Divine permission to go tlirough college, and a regular course 
 in theology. 
 
 Oberlin is the most interesting spot I have ever seen. Its professors 
 are the most humble, and its influence the most holy and effectual for 
 the searching and sanctification of the heart of any Institution with 
 which I have been acquainted. Great is the grace here manifested, and 
 its influence is being felt to the end of Christendom. * * # 
 Yours affectionately, D. Marks." 
 
 [To a lady relative, nearly ninety years of age.] 
 
 "Oberlin, Feb. 29, 1844. 
 My Dear Aunt : — 
 
 The feelings of my heart prompt me to write you, especially 
 as it now appears quite doubtful whether we ever again meet in this 
 world, and quite probable, when a few more days are gone, that we 
 shall meet amid all the realities and scenes of another state of existence. 
 Your advanced age gives strong assurance that the days, which Job de- 
 clared were ' like a weaver's shuttle,' will soon be forever numbered, 
 and the ties which bind you to earth be dissolved no more to be renewed. 
 True, you have lived, even since the infirmities of age came upon you, 
 to see many of the young, the healthy and the gay, go to their long 
 home before you. Yet, let it not be forgotten, that it has been said of 
 the oldest man that ever lived — ' He died' — nor that it will yet be thus 
 said of us all. What a multitude of friends and acquaintances you 
 have lived to see go down to the grave. O how many funeral solemni- 
 ties you have witnessed. Another thing which inclines me to invite 
 your attention to this subject, is, I feel that I too have but a few days to 
 stay in this world. Pray, dear aunt, be not grieved, if I inquire, ' Are 
 you prepared 1 Is your peace made with God ? Have you been bom 
 of the Holy Spirit V Surely, it is our privilege to know what our state 
 is, for the word of God has said : ' He that believeth hath the witness 
 
432 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 in himself,' and again, ' Prove your own selves whether ye be in the 
 faith. Now we should not be commanded to prove ourselves, if it were 
 impossible for us to do this. Again, the beloved disciple speaks of our 
 knowing that we have passed from death unto life, and he could never 
 have spoken in this manner, had it not been our privilege to know our 
 own state. A multitude of Scripture evidences might be brought to 
 the same point, but these are sufficient, and prove unanswerably, not 
 only that it is our privilege, but our duty, to determine with 
 certainty our true character before we go to the judgment. O then, 
 permit me to entreat you, as a child would entreat a parent, as a friend 
 would entreat another dear to his heart, and as a watchman of the cross 
 should entreat the souls, before whom he must soon give an account of his 
 stewardship, don't delay. O, for heaven's sake, do not trust to mere moral- 
 ity or even the form of godliness, and to the circumstance that you love the 
 good, and are a friend to religion. Don't rest without a witness that 
 your heart is changed, and that you have something more than a mere 
 hope — which may be ' as the. spider's web in the giving up of the ghost.' 
 O get one that will be like an anchor cast into a firm rock. It is for 
 you, if you will only seek it. Dear aunt, do seek it — seek it now — seek 
 it earnestly — seek it perseveringly — seek it with the whole heart — seek 
 it as an invaluable prize, an indescribable treasure, as that which is 
 worth more than friends and wealth, or indeed more than all earth itself. 
 Many have found a new hope at an age greater than yours. Yes, some 
 sinners have been converted, and become like little children at the age 
 of one hundred years. May we be prepared to meet in heaven. 
 
 Yours affectionately, D.Marks." 
 
 [To one of his brothers-in-law.] 
 
 " Oberlin, March 2, 1844. 
 My dear brother :— 
 
 * * I certainly have great reasons and very strong ones for 
 attachment to your family, nor have they been lessened by any want of 
 courtesy or brotherly kindness on your part. Though you do not pro- 
 fess religion, my visits in your family have always been pleasant and 
 are remembered with delight. Only one deduction has pained my heart, 
 and this concerns your duty to God and your eternal interest. Being 
 fully assured that here our time is short, and that in a few fleeting days, 
 we shall witness the crumbling of every earthly tie, and the dissolution 
 of every worldly hope, O how can I refrain from anxiety. Surely you 
 would not think me too forward or officious, should I see you exposed to 
 be burned to death in a flaming house, even though I should be greatly 
 excited, and alarmed, and use even ultra efforts to save you. But this 
 is only a faint illustration. Permit me to say, dear brother, that I am 
 sure, if you have not a well founded hope in the dear Redeemer, 
 you are in infinitely greater danger — in danger of a death that never 
 dies — of a loss which is irreparable. O the loss of the soul ! Who 
 can describe it ? When we lose friends we may regain others ; and 
 when we lose property we may accumulate more, or even reconcile our- 
 selves to poverty. But when the soul is lost, all is lost ! — lost forever ! 
 — lost irrecoverably ! — and with it, all that the heart can desire. O my 
 brother, I would not pain you unnecessarily. The physician, in ampu- 
 
DAVID VAKK8. 433 
 
 lating a limb, don't mean to inflict pain — that is not his object ; but he 
 would benefit his patient, and he acts from the full conviction that the 
 amputation had better go on, notwithstanding the circumstance that pain 
 ts its inevitable attendant. So I feel, that, as a brother, if aught of be- 
 nevolence rules in my heart, now while my health is gone, and I stand 
 rejoicing on the brink of the eternal world, I must solemnly warn you, 
 that except you are born of the Spirit, there is ceaseless sorrow before 
 you — that there is a fire never to be quenched, where all will be lost ! 
 — forever lost ! O the loss of the soul ! Who can imagine its cease- 
 less woes ! a night beyond which no day will eves' dawn — pain without 
 pleasures, sorrows without joys, where the sweets of society and of 
 sympathy will never cheer the heart — where there will be an ocean of 
 pain without one drop of ease, and an eternity of woes without any 
 relief ! 
 
 ♦ Tempests of angry fire will roll, 
 And beat in one eternal storm 
 Upon the naked soul !" 
 
 Omy brother, fly to Christ; fly now. Don'tdelay. God 'hates putting off.' 
 We know not our time. ' As the bird is caught in the snare, and the fishes 
 are taken in an evil net, so the sons of men are snared in an evil time 
 when it falleth suddenly upon them.' Let us then be ready. O that I 
 may hear that you are a decided Christian ' before I go hence to be here 
 no more.' Pray write to me, and let me know your state of mind. Tell 
 me all about it. It would be a satisfaction to me. I can but pray for 
 you daily : I trust your dear wife does the same, and I know your sis- 
 ter Marilla does. I)o you pray for yourself ? Don't be offended at my 
 importunity. The case is an urgent one. * * # 
 
 Yours affectionately, D. Marks." 
 
 Mr. Marks, for some time, refused to employ a physician, believ- 
 ing that his efforts would be unavailing, but at length, for the grat- 
 ification of his anxious family, he consented. Medicine appeared 
 to have the desired effect, his system again seemed invigorated, 
 his bloating subsided, and finally disappeared. In the mean time, 
 as spring opened, he busied himself in the cultivation of his gar- 
 den as his strength would permit, an employment which benefited 
 him, and in which he greatly delighted. But, with his returning 
 strength, though he did not feel able to resume his studies, he could 
 not be restrained from his much loved work of preaching Christ. 
 Accordingly he resumed his labors in some of the churches with 
 which he was preaching previous to his tour to New Hampshire, 
 and also organized a church in Henrietta, four miles from Oberlin, 
 to which he preached every fourth Sabbath. During the spring 
 lie commenced an acquaintance with Mr. Edmund B. Fairfi.eld, 
 a member of the Faculty of Oberlin College, which soon ripened 
 into strong Christian friendship. He was a Calvinistic Baptist li- 
 censed minister, and first calM on Mr. Marks for the purpose of 
 conversing on the subject of free-communion, Not long afterwards, 
 
 he united with the Free-will Baptists, y , £» f„. > 
 
 37 -* ^^^ 
 
434 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 May 25, Mr. Marks attended the Lake Erie quarterly meeting 
 at North Amherst, and preached on the subject of sanctification, 
 from 1 Thess. 5:23. He introduced his subject by saying, " Had 
 all the evil spirits in the universe held a three hundred and sixty-five 
 days' council in pandemonium, they could not possibly have suc- 
 ceeded better in their designs, than to have invented measures to 
 establish the doctrine in the church of Jesus Christ that the blood 
 of Christ never cleanses a soul from all sin in this life." In June, 
 he attended the Ohio Northern yearly meeting. This body now 
 passed some very spirited resolutions on the subject of slavery. 
 Hitherto they had not taken a very high stand in the cause of ab- 
 olition. Mr. Marks was appointed one of the delegates to the 
 General Conference to meet the ensuing fall in Plainfield in the 
 eastern part of New York. He declined the appointment, still 
 thinking his recovery doubtful. His acceptance was urged on the 
 ground that if he did not recover, he ought to go and meet his breth- 
 ren once more, and as a substitute was elected in case of his fail- 
 ure, it was insisted that his appointment should remain. 
 
 In the latter part of June, he had a pubUc discussion on the sub- 
 ject of baptism with Dr. Shaffer, a Methodist presiding elder. 
 Several months previous, in compliance with the urgent request of 
 a number of ministers, he had consented to meet Dr. Shaffer, who, 
 as he was informed, devoted a considerable part of his time to preach- 
 ing on this subject, advocating the position, that immersion was not 
 baptism, and had challenged the Baptist world to meet him. The 
 discussion was held in the Methodist meeting house in New Haven, 
 Huron Co. and continued five days. Mr. Marks was assisted by 
 brother E. B. Fairfield of Oberlin, a liberty he requested on ac- 
 <50unt of his health. Fifteen Methodist and nineteen Free-will 
 Baptist preachers were among the attendants. Among the novel 
 positions of Dr. Shaffer was the following : " That as baptism is 
 the answer of a good conscience, the candidate should have his 
 •choice as to the mode of administration ; but that immersion is 
 not a scriptural mode of Christian baptism, and that therefore he 
 would not immerse those applicants who desire to be baptized in 
 this way, but would send them to his brother ministers." Previous 
 to the discussion, it was agreed that no public expression of the 
 congregation should be taken. Some idea of its merits, may be 
 formed from the following article, which appeared in the Morning 
 Star. It was written to the Trustees of the Free-will Baptist 
 Book Concern, and was signed by twelve ministers. 
 
 ** Dear Brethren : — The undersigned, having been in attendance dur- 
 ing the discussion on baptism between brother Marks and Dr. Shaffer, 
 which commenced on the 24th inst. and was continued five days, take this 
 method of expressing to you our fullest conviction, that Baptist senti- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 435 
 
 ments have been triumphantly sustained, both as it respects the subjects 
 of baptism, and the manner of its administration. We are also of the 
 opinion, that it would greatly subserve the interests of true religion, to 
 have the principal arguments used in this debate, published in a book 
 form for the use of the Christian public. Such a work is needed by 
 our denomination, especially in the new states, where our sentiments 
 are continually assailed by the crudest objections, and most shameless 
 dogmatisms. The arguments adduced by our brother Marks, are, in 
 our judgment, admirably suited to the times, in view of the various and con- 
 flicting sentiments entertained respecting the design, mode, and subjects 
 of baptism. There are, indeed, many valuable works before the public, 
 treating on these points, but in no one of them do we find any consider- 
 able portion of the arguments used on this occasion. Ever since this 
 discussion was first contemplated, brother Marks has been actively en- 
 gaged in collecting his materials for debate, so that no point of attack 
 has been left undefended. A very considerable share of his matter is 
 already in manuscript, having been copied from Pedo-Baptists lexicog- 
 raphers, commentators, authors of the highest distinction, whose numer- 
 ous concessions, of themselves, form an unanswerable argument in fa- 
 vor of Baptist sentiments. In collecting these materials, brother Marks 
 has been assisted by our gifted and worthy brother Fairfield, a tutor in 
 Oberlin college, and has been enabled to collect an amount of valuable 
 testimony in favor of immersion far exceeding our most sanguine ex- 
 pectations. * # * 'pjjg arguments used in this debate, 
 should you publish them, will be found to contain the statements of the 
 ablest critics and lexicographers, on all the varieties of sentiment enter- 
 tained on the subject of baptism, with accurate references to the books 
 where they may be found, so that one may have within a compass of 
 some four hundred pages, substantially, the arguments of the learned 
 Carson, of Pengilly and Hinton, the valuable arguments of Camp- 
 bell with McAuley, and more recently with Dr. Rice, besides many oth- 
 er excellent works of less magnitude. * * * But the 
 greatest value of these materials, arises from the fact that they are so 
 simplified as to bring the most elaborate arguments drawn from classic 
 usage, and other learned disquisitions within the comprehension of the 
 general reader." 
 
 Mr. Marks greatly enjoyed this discussion, but the mental effort 
 much reduced his strength, and he never was able to comply with 
 the many requests to prepare the work for publication. On his re- 
 turn to Oberlin, he received the following, in reply to the resignation 
 he had tendered of his agency for the Strafford Institution. 
 
 *' Dear Brother Marks : — The account you gave us of your health, and 
 the resignation of your agency, has filled us with no small concern. 
 * * * It is the settled opinion of the Board, that your visit to 
 New Hampshire, and your powerful effort as our agent, w^as of God, 
 and that the hand of God was manifest in that effort, and further, that 
 if you could find it to be duty to come with your family to New Eng- 
 land and reside for a term of time with us, that you would soon free 
 our Seminary of learning, that God has so manifestly owned and bless- 
 ed with the out-pouring of his Spirit. And further, we believe that if 
 
3G MEMOIRS OF 
 
 our Institution is ever saved, it will appear to have been done by your ef- 
 forts. At the last meeting of our Trustees, they voted and directed me 
 to write to you, that they cannot give you up, if God will, in answer to 
 prayer, restore your health. I remarked to the Board, that I was will- 
 ing to write, and would do it cheerfully, but that I believed you had 
 made up your mind that you had done all you could for us, or you 
 would not have sent us your resignation. All this, however, would 
 avail nothing ; write I must, or some other one of the Board would, for 
 they are determined to hear from you before they appoint any other one 
 as agent. Do, brother, pray over this subject, and come, if your health 
 will permit. yVe do not entertain a doubt of your success, for the ob- 
 jections that lay in your way, have by you and the above named com- 
 mittee, been removed from the minds of all who have received the intel- 
 ligence. * * O that God's will, and not ours, may be done in 
 this thing. Yours in love, E. Place." 
 
 In reply, Mr. Marks recommended brother E. B. Fairfield as 
 his successor in the agency, and he was afterwards employed by 
 the Trustees. 
 
 During the months of July and August, Mr. Marks remained 
 mostly in Oberlin, except on the Sabbath, his health, meanwhile, 
 again improving. He was very happy, for he was in an atmos- 
 phere congenial to his feelings, and he enjoyed, with the keenest 
 relish, the moral, intellectual, and religious repasts so often spread 
 in Oberlin. But he could not rest to enjoy them alone. He loved to 
 impart his good things to others, and accordingly frequently report- 
 ed for the Star, some of the interesting meetings he attended. 
 Among these reports were seven lectures on slavery by Professor 
 Hudson, and Professor A. Walker's account of his tour in Eng- 
 land and France. Perhaps there were few occasions that filled 
 him with greater delight, than the celebration of West India 
 emancipation, conducted entirely by the colored people. The de- 
 corum, taste, and refinement, exhibited by them during the exer- 
 cises of the day, afforded him the sweetest enjoyment, as it was a 
 demonstration of the power of liberty, science, and religion, to el- 
 evate this crushed and down-trodden race. 
 
 Mr. Marks' physician having advised him to journey in an easy 
 carriage, entirely laying aside preaching, he concluded to attend 
 the General Conference ; and, accordingly, Friday, September 
 13, he left home in his own conveyance, accompanied by his 
 wife, and brother Fairfield, who was going on his agency to 
 New Hampshire. Saturday and Sabbath following, he attended 
 the Lorain quarterly meeting in Sheffield. Two ministers united 
 at this session, brethren H. Wellington and Charles Pierce. The 
 former, an Oberlin student, was from Massachusetts, and had hith- 
 erto been connected Avith the Calvinistic Baptists. The latter was 
 a Congregationalist licensed minister, formerly a student at Ober- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 437 
 
 lin, who, having embraced Baptist views, believed he had never 
 been scripturally baptized. At his request, Mr. Marks now bap- 
 tized him, and a very impressive season was enjoyed. 
 
 Prosecuting his journey, and enjoying the kind attentions of 
 brother Fairfield, Mr. Marks found his health improving, till two 
 or three days before he reached Plainfield, when he took a severe 
 cold, and his dropsical difficulties returned. He reached Plain- 
 field in season to be present at the organization of the Conference. 
 Fifty-three delegates attended, besides several other leading breth- 
 ren, who had come from different states to enjoy the discussions of 
 the Conference, and attend the anniversaries of the benevolent so- 
 cieties. Soon after the Conference was opened, a little time was 
 spent in listening to the remarks of brethren considerably advanc- 
 ed in life, who had seen much of the glory of God. The season 
 was a melting one, and an excellent preparation for the discussions 
 before them. The reports from the different parts of the denom- 
 ination were cheering. Nine yearly meetings, most of which had 
 been newly organized, were received into membership. One of 
 this number had been raised up through the instrumentality of a 
 minister sent out by the Home Mission Board at an expense of 
 only S1500. A very interesting letter w^as received from the mis- 
 sionaries in India. They had formed small churches at two sta- 
 tions, which they had organized into a quarterly meeting, called 
 Balasore. All seemed astonished at the rapid spread of the de- 
 nomination within the last few years. 
 
 Resolutions, accompanied by soul-stirring speeches, were passed 
 with great unanimity, on Slavery, Missions, Moral Reform, Popery,, 
 Temperance, Sabbath Schools, Education, State of Religion, 
 Church Polity, Secret Societies, Printing Establishment, &c. 
 Among the resolutions on slavery were the following : " Resolved, 
 That all human laws which require men to violate the laws of 
 God, are wicked laws, and should not be obeyed. Resolved, That 
 all laws which require us to assist in returning the fugitive slave 
 into bondage, or prohibit us from feeding, clothing, or protecting 
 him, contravene the laws of God, and therefore should not be re- 
 garded. Resolved, That this Conference believe it to be the duty 
 of all Christian voters to act on anti-slavery principles at the bal- 
 lot box." 
 
 The following are a few of the remarks Mr. Marks made in sup- 
 port of the last resolution, and are introduced as exemplifying 
 some of his views of the political duty of a Christian citizen. He 
 said : — 
 
 " In this business of voting, there is a great moral principle, which 
 has not been sufficiently weighed by the church to enable her to fix up- 
 on her conscience, the responsibility she has at the ballot box in a re- 
 S7* 
 
438 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 publican government. God has ordained human government. The 
 form of government and the exercise of governmental powers, are 
 left to be determined by circumstances. In a republic, the peo- 
 ple are the sovereigns, — the governors — and God holds them re- 
 sponsible as such. One's declining to act as a governor, lessens 
 not his responsibility to God, so long as his power to act remains in his 
 own hand. Nor does the fact that one cannot alone carry his point at 
 the ballot box, lessen his moral obligation, so far as his proportion of 
 power or influence is concerned. It is not necessary that a mob of one 
 hundred should kill a hundred individuals, in order to constitute each 
 one a murderer. All who engage in a mob which kills a single individ- 
 ual are murderers. So it is in a republican government. I am responsi- 
 ble for every principle I vote to have carried out. Nor will it avail me 
 anything to plead as an excuse, that if I had not voted to put in an im- 
 moral man, others would have put him in without me. I might on the 
 same principle, rob, sell rum, practice licentiousness, &c., pleading that 
 I deplore these evils ' as much as any body,' — ' but' — if I don't practice 
 them, ' others will.' * # # # # There is sophis- 
 try in this doctrine ' of two evils, choose the least,' which is often 
 overlooked. Evil has two meanings ; one signifies sin — the other ca- 
 lamity. Now, while in the last sense, it is lawful to choose the least of 
 evils, as did David when he chose between sw^ord, pestilence, and 
 famine, it is not true in the first sense, moral evils, that we should 
 chose the least. To choose the least of two moral evils, is to choose to 
 sin. To sin, under a pretence of eflfecting a greater good, is not only a 
 simple, foolish doctrine, amid the light of this age, but it is a horrible 
 doctrine, a ' damnable heresy,' and joins its advocates to those of whom 
 Paul said their language was : ' Let us do evil that good may come.' 
 Were there three candidates up for President of the United States, the 
 first being the devil, the second a thief, and the third an honest man ; 
 and had I the casting vote between the devil and the thief, I would by 
 no means give it to the thief to keep the devil out, simply because I 
 have no right to vote for the thief to keep others from putting in the 
 devil. I must vote for the honest man, though by my adherence to 
 principle, another should have the casting vote, and put in the devil. 
 He then will have the guilt before all heaven, earth and hell, of putting 
 in the devil, and I, before all the same witnesses, will have the praise to 
 all eternity, of voting for the honest man. Let me illustrate the moral 
 responsibility of voting. Suppose here is a crank connected with a 
 wheel, that wheel with another, the second with a third, and so on to 
 five hundred wheels, and I take hold of the crank, and turn it, and that 
 turns the first wheel, that the next, and so on ; and the five hundredth 
 wheel turns a sword in such a manner as to cut oiF a man's head. 
 Now, who does not know that I am just as much a murderer as though 
 I had done it directly by taking the sword into my own hand. To say 
 I did not kill the man, that I merely turned the crank, &c. is a mere 
 quibble. God holds me responsible for the natural results, w^hich I saw 
 would accrue from my turning the crank. So in the business of voting. 
 Here is a law system, which not only robs the slaves of all their earnings, 
 but compels them to licentiousness, and kills multitudes of them. But 
 who made and retains the slave code that does all this wickedness 1 The 
 
DAVID MARKS. 439 
 
 law-makers. Who make the law-makers T The voters — the sovereign 
 people. # # ♦ ♦ # Hence it follows that every vo- 
 ter who votes to send a pro-slavery agent to Congress, or put one into 
 a law-making office, is himself a robber, and, if he knows all the circum- 
 stances which his vote thus sanctions, he is also a murderer, and God 
 will hold him responsible as such. # # # # 
 
 The committee on secret societies, of which Mr. Marks was 
 chairman, reported as follows : 
 
 " That the watchfulness of the public eye is essential to the purity of 
 all associated bodies and institutions whatever ; and that, in the present 
 state ^f society, however pure may be the motives and principles of 
 the founders of secret societies, secrecy is sure to corrupt them. * * 
 In the opinion of your committee, all extrajudicial oaths or affirmations 
 for the keeping of the secrets of such associations as Free Masons, 
 Odd Fellows, Rechabites, and similar combinations, are contrary to 
 the Bible, which forbids us to forswear ourselves, and contrary to the 
 spirit of the Christian religion, which does not allow its subjects to 
 agree to things which they do not understand, or to take obligations 
 upon them which they do not know for themselves the bearings of, in 
 contingencies which may arise, — Therefore, 
 
 Resolved, That we advise our churches, as far as practicable, to avert 
 this evil in its first beginnings, by laboring with all who take upon them 
 the extra judicial oaths or pledges of these societies, or who remain 
 connected with them." 
 
 The report of the Book Concern afforded matter for devout 
 thanksgiving, and furnished ample testimony of the wisdom and 
 prudence with which it had continued to be conducted. Its value 
 was now estimated at $25134, it was free from debt, and had several 
 hundred dollars surplus funds, which the Conference voted to di- 
 vide between the Mission and Education Societies. The Morning 
 Star had been enlarged the third time, and otherwise improved, 
 without addition to the price. 
 
 But perhaps no subject that came before the Conference awaken- 
 ed so much interest as the location of the " Biblical School," an 
 Institution which had been established by the Education Society, 
 and had been in operation several years without any permanent lo- 
 cation. The Trustees of Clinton Seminary, N. Y., had made a very 
 advantageous exchange of their Institution for the buildings of the 
 Oneida Institute in Whitestown. They w^ere anxious the Biblical 
 School should be located with them, and had offered to give the use 
 of one of their large buildings. Other very generous offers had been 
 made from other places ; and the Society had referred the decision to 
 the General Conference. Notwithstanding the local interests, that 
 could but have their influence on the minds of the members, the 
 discussion was conducted in the most Christian spirit, and the de- 
 cision finally was in favor of Whitestown. 
 
440 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 After a week's sitting, when the time for the adjournment of the 
 Conference arrived, a very great solemnity rested upon its mem- 
 bers, several of whom addressed their brethren. But probably to 
 none was it more solemn than to Mr. Marks. lie said, " I thank 
 my Heavenly Father for the strength he has unexpectedly given 
 me to come to this Conference, and see so many that are dear to 
 my heart. My feeble health admonishes me, that probably this is 
 the last time that I shall see your faces in this world, and that I 
 have for the last time reported your speeches. But I thank God 
 that for me ' to live is Christ, to die would be gain.' I wish to ask 
 you all to pray for me." The " Christian's Hope," by Mr. Sutton, 
 commencing, 
 
 "Hail sweetest, dearest tie that binds 
 Our glowing hearts in one," 
 
 was sung, and nearly all, if not all, wept as they exchanged salu- 
 tations. Prayer was then offered, and an affecting separation fol- 
 lowed, accompanied with many tears. 
 
 Thus closed the twelfth General Conference. It had embodied 
 a greater array of talent and sterling piety, than had ever before 
 been assembled in the Free-will Baptist denomination. It was 
 also the most interesting and important in its results. In subse- 
 quent days, the subject of these memoirs often referred to this Con- 
 ference, while tears of gratitude would flow down his cheeks, and, 
 in the most melting accents, he would thank his Heavenly Father 
 that he had strengthened him to attend it, and had permitted him 
 to live to see so many strong young men raised up to fight in the 
 holy war, and then he would frequently add, that he could be spar- 
 ed from the field, and he was ready to depart in peace. 
 
 Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 9, Mr. Marks set out on his return 
 homeward, and as he had been able, during the Conference, to 
 write out but little part of the notes of his reports, and there was 
 much anxiety for their immediate appearance in the Star, he em- 
 ployed much of his time while travelling, in writing. These reports 
 when published, occupied between fifty and sixty columns, and were 
 read with the greatest avidity. On his return, he visited the In- 
 stitution at "Whitestown, and was extremely gratified with all he 
 saw. During a night in which he stopped between Rochester and 
 Buffalo, the country was visited by a most dreadful tempest, which, 
 with its effects, he thus described in the Star : 
 
 *' The prophet Isaiah said, that Christ should be ' A hiding place 
 from the wind, and a covert from the tempest.' In the land of Judea, 
 where the storms are frequently terrible and awfully sublime, the figure 
 used in the above passage is a striking one. Nor has it been less stri- 
 kingly appropriate to multitudes on lake Erie, and in western New 
 York, who have witnessed the heart-rending effects of a terrible tem- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 
 
 44i 
 
 pest, which happened on Saturday morning, Oct. 18, 1844. We were 
 then on our return from the General Conference, and had taken lodgings 
 at the house of brother A. Achilles in Oak Orchard, about thirty miles 
 from Rochester. At one o'clock in the morning, we were awakened by 
 the noise of the wind and the tremulous motion of the house in 
 which we lodged. At two o'clock, the family were up, and the shaking 
 of the house warned us to flee to some stronger retreat. We were 
 scarcely dressed, when there came a crash, the whole building reeled, 
 and, for a moment, we expected to be buried in its ruins. The roof of 
 the kitchen had fallen in, and we now all fled to a neighboring house. 
 There we listened for hours to the ragings of the gale, and as we thought 
 of the scenes of distress on the adjacent lakes, which, from the sudden- 
 ness of the tempest must be unavoidable, we engaged in prayer. Sat- 
 urday, we_ continued our journey westward, and through the whole 
 country witnessed extensive damages, such as the destruction of timber, 
 fences, and buildings. Four days after the gale, we visited the lower 
 part of Buflfalo, which had been inundated. The wind had blown from 
 the south-west directly down the lake with such force, that the whole 
 body of the lower end of the lake had risen, some said sixteen feet ! 
 This, with the unprecedented dashing of the waves, caused an amount 
 of destruction which almost surpasses the power of description. On one 
 of the largest streets in the lower part of the city, we were told that the 
 water stood five feet deep in the street. Yet beneath the large blocks of 
 buildings were under-ground rooms, some of which were used for sleep- 
 ing apartments. At one time, it was said, the water rose four feet in 
 five minutes. In some cases, a furious wave would burst in a door or 
 window, and fill a room so suddenly, that the inmates had only time to 
 awake and perish ! How awful to such must have been that moment ! 
 They had hot the most distant dream of danger. They slept as calmly 
 as others. They heard the noise of water — sprang from their beds, and 
 found themselves in the dark rising flood — they were covered with it — 
 no intelligence as to the cause — no explanation — no time for reasoning ; 
 and the awful thought rushed on the soul — ' I am drowning — escape is 
 impossible — it is done — now I must meet my Judge — am 1 ready? — No 
 time for preparation — O ! lam going — going — gone !' It was said, that 
 the screams of distress and cries for help, that alternately rose and died 
 away amid the waves and winds from two o'clock till sunrise, were 
 enough to melt a heart of stone. We were informed that the bodies 
 of fifty-five had been picked up and carried to the court house, where 
 they were left for a season that their friends might identify them. Many 
 were missing that had not been found. Some were of the opinion that 
 one hundred lives were lost in Buffalo, but, considering the number of 
 those whose bodies may have washed down the Niagara river, and sunk 
 into the dreadful whirlpool below the Falls, never more to rise till Ga- 
 briel's trump shall call out the dead from earth's deepest caverns, no 
 one can be sure of even the probable number lost. We stood in the 
 south part of the city, on the edge of the ruins, nearly a mile from the 
 lake, and with the most solemn feelings surveyed the scene of desola- 
 tion, which for more than a mile in extent, north and south, east and 
 west, met the eye. * » * Though now four days after the destruc- 
 tion, almost all kinds of materials seen in a city weie here piled in end- 
 
442 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 les3 confusion. Large numbers of teams, and hundreds if not thousands 
 of workmen were engaged in clearing away and regulating this singu- 
 lar flood- wood." * * * # 
 
 Leaving Buffalo, the next day Mr. Marks visited the wreck of 
 the steamer Robert Fulton, lying on the beach twenty miles south 
 of Buffalo, where it was driven ashore during the gale, with about 
 two hundred and seventy-five passengers on board. It was to 
 them a night of awful terror, and of earnest, continued, and agon- 
 izing prayer. Two were drowned in the steerage cabin, and two 
 were washed overboard. He was told by one of the passengers, 
 that an infidel was on board, who had zealously argued his princi- 
 ples till the gale struck the vessel, and then, when all were expect- 
 ing to be lost, he prayed as fervently as any one. Mr. Marks con- 
 tinuing his journey, arrived in Oberlin the early part of Novem- 
 ber. 
 
 CHAPTER XXX. 
 
 A few particulars respecting his state of health, last labors, death, 
 funeral sermon, farewell addresses, ^c, from Nov. 1844, to 
 December, 1845. Also, extracts from the correspondence of 
 friends, containing testimonials of their esteem and views of 
 his character, S^c. 
 
 Mr. Marks preached a few Sabbaths after his return to Oberlin, 
 but he found that every attempt increased his illness. Professor 
 Finney now interested himself in his case, persuaded him to relin- 
 quish his appointments, and encouraged him to hope that continued 
 rest, sleeping all he possibly could, and omitting the use of medi- 
 cine entirely, would yet restore him to a tolerable state of liealth. 
 He commenced this course, and was astonished at the changes pro- 
 duced. His bloating again subsided, his system became somewhat 
 invigorated, and his friends greatly rejoiced in his brightening 
 prospects. Professor Finney, in his kindness and care for him, 
 used often to go out hunting wild game, with which he kept him 
 almost constantly supplied for several months. Thus passed the 
 winter and spring. As soon as Mr. Marks' friends were apprised 
 of his state of health, and that he was destitute of funds to meet his 
 current expenses, they made him kind and liberal remittances. 
 
 May 31 and June 1, he attended the Ohio Northern yearly 
 meeting, in compliance with the urgent entreaties of brethren, on 
 
DAVID MARKS. 443 
 
 condition that they would not ask him to preach. It was held in 
 Spencer, twenty miles from Oberlin. He assisted during the busi- 
 ness meeting, lying down a part of the time. Sabbath morning, he 
 gave a short exhortation, which produced a thrilling effect. One 
 impenitent man went out, because he said he would not be seen to 
 weep, and if he had remained, he should have burst into tears. Af- 
 ter the meeting Mr. Marks returned to Oberlin, apparently unin- 
 jured by this effort. 
 
 June 2. A minister from Michigan called to persuade him to 
 attend the Michigan yearly meeting, which was soon to assemble. He 
 urged his attendance in the most moving terms, and was especially 
 anxious on account of a literary institution the yearly meeting had 
 just established. A charter had been obtained for a college, called 
 Michigan Central College, and the school was then in operation in 
 Spring Arbor, under the superintendence of brother Daniel H. 
 Graham, a graduate from Oberlin. He argued that he could rest 
 about as well on the steam-boat and in the cars as he could at home, 
 and that a trip on the lake would benefit him. After considerable 
 consultation, the decision of the matter was referred to Professor 
 Finney, who, with much hesitation, reluctantly said, that perhaps it 
 would not injure him. June 4, Mr. Marks took a steam-boat for 
 Detroit at Huron, but after leaving the wharf, found the berths all 
 engaged, consequently he was able to get very little rest through 
 the night. At Detroit, he took the cars. The following letter 
 from, brother D. H. Graham, written since the death of Mr. Marks, 
 gives a few particulars respecting his visit to the Michigan yearly 
 meeting : 
 
 " Spring Arbor, Mich. March 9, 1845. 
 Dear Sister Marks : — 
 
 * * Our yearly meeting, at which brother Marks 
 preached his last sermon, was held on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of June last, 
 in our meeting house at Leoni. * * 
 
 On the morning of the 5th of June, I set out for the yearly meeting. 
 At Jackson, eight miles from Detroit, I took the cars, when, to my great 
 surprise, and still greater joy, I found that I was fellow passenger with 
 Elder Marks. He was in company with Elder Elijah Cook. He vi-as 
 unusually cheerful — almost jovial. I expressed my joy for the privilege 
 of meeting him in my own state, and of listening to him once more : he 
 said, owing to illness, he should not attempt to preach. In a few mo- 
 ments we were at Leoni, eight miles from Jackson. Having been in- 
 troduced to the Conference, he asked the privilege of lying down during 
 their deliberations. Accordingly, he took his position on a buffalo robe, 
 his head being supported by pillows. As Pitt was carried on a bed to 
 Parliament to discharge his last political duty, so, in future, it may be 
 said of brother Marks, that he was borne to the house of God to dis- 
 charge his last two public duties in the service of his King. He fre- 
 quently spoke during the deliberations of the conference, sometimes 
 
444 MEMOIES OF 
 
 standing, sometimes reclining. Saturday afternoon, there was a sermon 
 and religious conference. His feelings were much elated. While thus 
 looking upon the work of his Master, and being pressed by all, he con- 
 sented to preach the next day. Sabbath morning, the church was 
 crowded, and many were standing outside at the doors and windows. 
 After a sermon preached from the words, * If any man thirst, let him 
 come unto me and drink,' your husband preached from Matt. 28:19, 20, 
 ' Go ye therefore and teach all nations,' &c. He kept his seat for the 
 most part while delivering his sermon. He was very moderate when 
 he began, manifestly favoring himself what he could. His sermon was 
 simple in diction, powerful in argument, and overwhelming in pathos. 
 He seemed to be familiarly talking with each auditor till every one was all 
 attention, then compelling conviction by his argument, while tears gush- 
 ed from his own eyes, he seemed literally, with resistless strains of elo* 
 quence, to melt the whole audience before him. In vain I attempt to 
 describe the scene. He continued thus more than two hours. So deep, 
 lasting, and extensive, were the impressions made by that sermon, both 
 among professors and non-professors, that long, long after the speaker 
 shall have lain in the grave, one wanderer after another will, through 
 its influence, be brought home to God. 
 
 After sermon, he was taken to Elder Limbocker's, completely ex- 
 hausted. He told me that he feared that he had done wrong in preach- 
 ing so long. I parted with him, expecting never to meet him again, as 
 it was then his intention to leave the next morning for Oberlin. The 
 next day, however, he called upon me in Spring Arbor, apparently in 
 better health than he was before preaching. When passing in front of 
 the new building erected for the use of our Institution in this place, he 
 fixed his eye on it, and paused for a while, as though in deep thought. 
 At length, addressing himself to Elder Coltrin, he spoke with deep 
 emotion of the progress of the denomination. * Who would have 
 thought a few years ago,' said he, ' that our denomination would, from 
 a mere infant, have become a great people, spreading far and wdde ! 
 Who would have thought,' continued he, ' that so soon after hiding my 
 grammar, lest the indignation of my elder brethren would be out against 
 me, we should have one literary institution after another, and most of all 
 away here at the West!' Many remarks similar to these he made 
 while with us. He spoke of the influence this institution would be 
 likely to exert in the great battle yet to be fought between Truth and 
 Error in the West. So elated did he become, that he even shouted, 
 ' Glory to God ! Glory to God ! ! ' " 
 
 Mr. Marks returned to Oberlin, after an absence of eight days, 
 much enfeebled. Rest now failed to benefit him ; he grew worse 
 rapidly, and his symptoms became very alarming. After much 
 entreaty, he was persuaded to resort to medicines which had for- 
 merly lessened his dropsical difficulties, but they produced no ef- 
 fect. Again, he gave up all hope of recovery, but was very calm 
 and happy. Once more, in deference to the anxious feelings of his 
 family, he consented to call a physician who had recently settled 
 in Oberlin ; but told him he had no expectation that he could ben- 
 efit him. The physician, after an examination of his case, expressed 
 
DAVID MARKS. 445 
 
 confidence that he could be relieved ; but said if the accumulation 
 of water could not be carried off, he could live but few days. He 
 commenced treating his case, and very shortly succeeded beyond 
 his most sanguine expectations, in removing the dropsical obstruc- 
 tions, and restoring him to ease and comparative comfort. Again, 
 his friends and himself were flattered with hopes of his restoration 
 to health. Sometimes, while lying on his couch, and thinking of 
 once more being able to preach, he would say, " O, what a beauti- 
 ful world is this. I am not anxious to leave it. O the precious 
 harvest of the Lord. How delightful it will be to labor in it again. 
 I would like to live a hundred years, if it were my Heavenly Fath- 
 er's will, and I could preach. O, I would like to see the triumphs 
 the gospel will then have won. I would like to see the wonderful 
 effects wrought by the annihilation of distance by steamboats, rail- 
 roads, and the wonderful magnetic telegraph. God will use all 
 these for the spread of his knowledge." Thus he would often go 
 on, his eye kindling with expression, and his countenance glowing 
 with emotions too big for utterance. His health continued to im- 
 prove for a few weeks, and then seemed to remain about station- 
 ary. He usually rode out every day, and sometimes attended 
 worship on the Sabbath. On one occasion, at Professor Finney's 
 request, he broke bread to the Oberlin church, and made some re- 
 marks, and several times he opened or closed the meetings by 
 prayer. 
 
 In the mean time, he was often cheered by the letters of his 
 Christian friends. Among them were communications from his 
 missionary friends, Sutton, Bacheler, and Phillips. The latter 
 wrote : 
 
 " Jellasore, India, Sept. 11, 1844. 
 Dear Brother Marks : — 
 
 * * * * We see by the Star, that you have been ex- 
 tensively engaged in the cause of education. The success which at- 
 tended your effort in Ohio is really encouraging, and seems to have been 
 unprecedented in our denomination. 
 
 I read your full and very interesting letter of March 13, 1844, at our 
 late quarterly meeting, it being of common interest to us all. We all 
 felt sorry, though none disappointed, that you were laid aside from ac- 
 tive labors, and suffering from ' nervous debility.' The wonder seemed 
 rather to be, that you still kept soul and body together, and I believe 
 we were all agreed in charging you with imprudence. ' Strength equal 
 to your day,' seems not to satisfy you. You grasp after the strength of 
 three or four days in one. My dear brother, is this wise? I trust you 
 have taught the people truths that will not soon be forgotten ; but even 
 to do this, ought a man to kill himself? A candle Hghted at both ends 
 must soon burn out, and cease to afford any light. On the subject of 
 your own education, to us in India, you appear to be verging an ex- 
 treme. Already broken down with hard labor, and sinking into the 
 38 
 
446 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 grave under the pressure of premature old age, the vital fluids too much 
 exhausted to rally again soon, you are, to say the least, in a poor state 
 of body or mind, to endure four or six years of close application to hard 
 study, not to inquire what your prospects for usefulness are likely to be 
 when the task shall have been accomplished, should you live so long. 
 One would think that David might well have been content with Go- 
 liah's sword in addition to his sling and smooth stones, without coveting 
 Saul's armor, and especially so, when he sees what a mighty victory 
 they had gained for Israel. If I have taken too great liberty, I know 
 you will pardon me, rather than take it amiss. What you say of your 
 state of mind and of the society at Oberlin, is calculated to represent 
 your situation as the most desirable on earth, and such I can fancy it to 
 be. Many thanks for your offer of the Oberlin Evangelist. I should 
 much prize the Evangelist, but I cannot consent to have you give it to 
 me. ***** * 
 
 With you, I look forward with delight to the time we shall meet, no 
 more to part. I trust I can say, that ' for me to live is Christ, to die 
 would be gain.' Once more, adieu. J. Phillips." 
 
 Elder Place wrote him June 7, 1845, as follows : 
 
 '* Dear Brother Marks : — 
 
 You cannot conceive the peculiar sensations that filled my 
 heart at the close of the General Conference at Plainfield, when you 
 told us that it was the last time you ever expected to report the doings 
 of that body, and that it was more than probable, that before their next 
 session, you should be numbered with the dead ! My thoughts flew 
 quicker than lightning over our beloved denomination in solemn search 
 for a man to fill your place, but could not find him; neither have I 
 been any more successful in my search since, than at that time ; and if 
 there is one of our brethren whom God has designed to fill your place, it 
 is only known to him, and not to us. On a second view of the subject, 
 I have never been able to bring my thoughts to believe for a single mo- 
 ment that your gospel labors were about to close forever. Hence it has 
 been my earnest prayer, that your health might be restored, and that 
 our brethren might pray for that specific object, and that you might be 
 reconciled to your lot, and take every precaution to recover your health. 
 Whitefield said at Exeter, the day before his death, that he was not 
 tired o/" the way, but tired m the way. All resignation to the divine 
 will, to live or die, should be the frame of mind in which every true ser-* 
 vant of Christ should be found ; but truly this is no small work or mi- 
 nor attainment : it is only through much prayer, and the assistance of 
 divine grace, that such victories are ever achieved. And further, we 
 should not wish or long to go to heaven, while it is God's will that w^e 
 remain on earth. For could we live a thousand lives, and each to the 
 common age of man, and spend the whole in preaching the gospel of 
 Christ, O, it would be delightful work, glorious employment, and then, 
 with all those brought to Christ by his ever-blessed gospel, we should 
 find ample time to praise God in a world without end. ***** 
 May God raise you up to health, and prolong your days for Zion's sake. 
 
 E. Place." 
 Mr. Marks seldom allowed himself to write replies to any let- 
 ters, or furnish any articles for the Morning Star, though his name 
 
DAVID MARKS. 447 
 
 was still continued as one of the assistant editors. But noticing a 
 communication from a correspondent, favoring the society of " Odd 
 Fellows," he forwarded an article on the subject, from the Oberlin 
 Quarterly Review. To this article he w rote the following preface, 
 which was about the last he wrote for the Star. It was published 
 October 15, 1845. 
 
 " It was with sorrow that I perused an article in a late number of the 
 Star, from an esteemed brother, as we are assured, favorable to the soci- 
 ety of Odd Fellows. When I was strong and ' able to go whithersoev- 
 er I would,' my Lord demanded me to expend some of my energies in an 
 uncompromising warfare against secret societies. The society of Free 
 Masons at that time was most prominent, and that was a glad day to my 
 soul, when our General Conference, years ago, took a decided stand 
 against them. I mourn that so soon the evil is gaining ground in the 
 rapid spread of the society of Odd Fellows. But let this selfish organi- 
 zation be confined to the children of the devil, whence it originated, and 
 where it belongs ; and let not the followers of a pure and holy Savior, 
 turn aside to be taken in its snares, deceiving and being deceived. 
 When I read the article referred to, I could scarcely restrain myself 
 from taking my pen with a view of exposing to the readers of the Star 
 the wicked principles of this society ; but the reflection that even this 
 eflfort might blast my prospect of returning strength, or hinder me longer 
 from open combat with the foes of Zion, deterred me from the at- 
 tempt." # * * 
 
 A difficulty had arisen in a church near Oberlin, in consequence 
 of the faithful and pointed testimony of its pastor against intemper- 
 ance. This difficulty had been referred to the Lorain quarterly 
 meeting, of which this church was a member. Mr. Marks, fearing 
 the faithful minister might not be sustained, determined to attend 
 the quarterly meeting, to which he had been appointed a delegate, 
 and which was to be held in September, about twenty miles from 
 Oberlin. On being remonstrated with for his decision, and being 
 reminded that his physician would not consent, he replied, " I shall 
 not ask my physician. We are commanded to lay down our lives 
 for the brethren. There are those that will, if they can, sacrifice 
 
 brother , because he has been faithful to truth and their souls. 
 
 He is a man of God, and it is my duty to go and stand by him." 
 At the time appointed, he went, accompanied by four Free-will 
 Baptist ministers living in Oberlin, all of whom rendered effiictive 
 aid in favor of the persecuted minister, being permitted to take part 
 in the discussions. For a day and a half the subject was canvass- 
 ed. Mr. Marks was the only member that defended the uncom- 
 promising course of the faithful preacher ; but he w^as in his ele* 
 ment, and never did he appear stronger in the power of truth, nor 
 his spirits more buoyant. Undaunted, fearless, and bold in his po- 
 sitions, he seemed to speak with a power more than human. In- 
 
448 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 deed, his language was clothed with a grandeur, that was both aw- 
 ful and terrible, and which carried resistance before it. When the 
 final vote was taken, he expected that he should be in " the glori- 
 ous minority of one," but, to his great astonishment, it was unani- 
 mous on the side he had advocated, except one, who refused to 
 vote. Two or three members, as they were parties concerned, did 
 not vote. Mr. Marks lay down much of the time during the delib- 
 erations of the Conference. After its close, he returned to Ober- 
 lin, exceedingly happy and joyful, and to the surprise of himself" 
 and friends, apparently in better health than when he left home. 
 From this circumstance, they all felt encouraged to hope for his 
 ultimate recovery. 
 
 The following Sabbath he attended worship at Oberlin, which, 
 as near as can be recollected, was the last Sabbath he ever spent in 
 an earthly sanctuary. He walked to the meeting house, perhaps a 
 quarter of a mile distant. At noon, he dined with Professor Fin- 
 ney, lay down on a sofa most of the time during the intermission, 
 meanwhile conversing with much animation. At the close of the 
 afternoon service, he walked home, stopping by the way at Presi- 
 dent Mahan's to rest. He was again very cheerful, conversed 
 about the prospect of his returning health, and remarked that he 
 thought he should yet be able to preach the glorious and blessed 
 gospel. The President said he thought so too. About the middle 
 of October, he rode out one morning to attend to what he thought 
 was indispensable business. The air was chilly — ^lie took cold, and 
 shortly after his dropsical symptoms returned, with aggravated vio- 
 lence. His physician, who was about to leave on a journey to 
 Massachusetts, to be absent several weeks, tried to encourage him 
 to hope for another removal of those symptoms, gave him some 
 general prescriptions, and charged him to be very cautious of future 
 exposures, as they might bring on a relapse that would terminate 
 fatally. He faithfully followed the directions of his physician ; but 
 his disorder steadily increased, while his soul seemed absorbed in 
 heavenly contemplations. He often said his hopes of recovery 
 were again very faint, and talked almost incessantly in the most 
 touching strains, about the reality and consolation of the Chris- 
 tian's hope, the resurrection, the work of the " spirit-land," and the 
 glories of heaven. Still none of his friends were particularly 
 alarmed, as he had several times been apparently much worse. 
 He had recently heard of the death of his oldest brother in Illinois, 
 and they attributed his conversing so much about his own depar- 
 ture, to the effect of this intelligence upon his mind. He continued 
 declining, and finally began to speak of the certainty of his dissolu* 
 tion in a more positive manner than he ever had before. His com- 
 panion, now fearing that he was about to be removed, commenced 
 
DAVID MARKS. 449 
 
 recording a very few of his many remarks for her own consolation, 
 in case he should soon pass away. These memoranda are as fol- 
 lows ; but they give a very faint and imperfect idea of the glorious 
 and affecting scenes of his closing life. To those who had the in- 
 valuable, the blessed privilege of seeing the angelic expression of 
 his countenance, and hearing his heavenly words, his very room 
 seemed often " quite the verge of heaven." 
 
 October 28, Tuesday. My dear husband said to me he was decided 
 that there was in his case no hope of recovery. It was a great trial to 
 his mind to lift the veil and tell me we must part, but he felt sure he 
 should stay but little time. He knew my trial was much greater than 
 his, said he tenderly Sympathized with me. He well remembered his 
 own feelings when, watching by my sick bed, he expected to be left, 
 and felt that he knew not how to endure it. " But I bless God," said 
 he, " that in mercy he has so constituted us that the poignancy of grief 
 will wear away. ' Though sorrow endure for a night, joy will come in 
 the morning.' We have lived together as Christians. More than six- 
 teen years God has given us to each other. They have been happy 
 years, blessed with the most perfect mutual confidence and affection. In 
 a little time we shall be re-united, and when your work is done, I shall 
 joyfully welcome your spirit to that better land." What he did, he ad- 
 ded, must be done quickly. He wanted to write letters to his friends, 
 also a farewell address to his beloved denomination and to the world, 
 while his strength remained. He wished to be carried to the house of 
 worship, to give one more public testimony for God, to speak once more 
 to the students preparing for the ministry. He was very happy, felt his 
 work was done. He had loved it exceedingly, though for years he hafl 
 labored in great weakness of body. Now he was going where he could 
 work without sleep, and labor without fatigue. [At this date he had no 
 alarming symptoms except being weaker.] 
 
 October 30. He wrote thus to his youngest brother. '* My dear 
 brother Jeremiah : — Your letter of the 4th inst., bringing the painful 
 tidings of our brother's death, was duly received. So our dear brother 
 Friend has gone — gone to his long home — gone to the spirit world — to 
 receive, while endless ages roll on, according to the deeds done in the 
 body ! And soon we must follow him, and know all the realities that 
 there are on the other side of the river of death. I am fast hastening^ 
 I write to you now in bed, to which I am confined most of the time, and 
 have no expectation of recovering my health. I am exceedingly weak, 
 and probably this is the last letter I shall ever be able to write you. I 
 may drag along some months yet, but I should not be surprised, should 
 I drop away in a week. The tide of life has run so low that I am now 
 arranging all my affairs to leave without a moment's warning. But 
 glory to God, dear brother Jeremiah, I am prepared — and I am happy. 
 Jesus Christ has taken away the sting of death, so that I rejoice and am 
 exceedingly happy in view of my certain dissolution. What supports 
 and comforts me, dear brother, is the hope of eternal life — a sure hope 
 like an anchor to the soul, sure and steadfast, and entering even into 
 heaven. O, my brother, don't be offended with me, when I say, would 
 to God that my brother Jeremiah had this hope also — this good hope— 
 88* 
 
450 MEMOIES OP 
 
 this precious hope — which extends beyond this life — which will buoy up 
 the spirit in the dark valley and shadow of death. O that you were a 
 Christian ! a good Christian — a genuine Christian — that you had all the 
 consolations of the blessed, the glorious hope of eternal life ! Nothing 
 else can fill and satisfy man's capacious soul — his restless nature. O 
 brother, you may become a Christian — God is willing — Heaven will 
 forgive — mercy lingers around you, and knocks at your heart for admit- 
 tance. Until you become a Christian, you can never fill the design of 
 your being. Religion, genuine religion, is as much the natural food of 
 the human soul, as earthly food is the natural food for the body. I am 
 glad, my dear brother, that you did not go to sea. * * * * May 
 God help you to be contented, and give you a good hope of immortality. 
 Farewell, dear brother. If you can, do write me ^ne more letter before 
 I, die. Your affectionate brother, 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 October 29 or 30. He rode out and met Professor Finney, who said he 
 thought he should leave Oberlin the next morning to spend the winter. 
 Mr. Marks expressed his regret, and added that he wished him to preach 
 his funeral sermon. President Mahan was already gone. Professor 
 Finney smiled and said, " Brother Marks, you can't die now. Are 
 you subject to depression of spirits ?" He replied, " No, I was never 
 happier."* 
 
 October 31, Friday. He said he was only confirmed in his views that 
 he had but few days to stay with me. I asked him why he felt so. He 
 then rehearsed the history of his sickness from the time of his labors to 
 establish the ^Book Concern, where his toils and exposures subjected 
 him to four successive fits of sickness, since which he had never seen a 
 well hour. From year to year he had kept running down lower and 
 lower. He had tried to rest, he had tried to be qaiet, but he had such 
 an insatiable thirst to do something for God that he could not. If his 
 body was still, his mind was like a steam engine, his thoughts flew with 
 the speed of lightning, and it was a vain attempt to stay them. He 
 knew his constitution could not long endure. God had trained him for 
 the work of the spirit-land. He had greater work for him, nobler busi- 
 ness in the upper world. 
 
 November 1. Little Julia and myself rode with him to Pittsfield. As 
 we passed the grave-yard, he pointed to it and said, " My dear Julia, 
 soon I shall lie there. This is the last time you will ever ride with 
 your papa, whom you love so much. I am going to live with angels in 
 heaven." On our return home, we met Professor Finney, who asked 
 him how he did ? With a peculiar emphasis and a heavenly smile, he 
 said, — 
 
 '"• There's not a cloud that doth arise 
 To hide my Savior from my eyes." 
 
 November 2, Sabbath. He rode out on horseback, returned greatly 
 fatigued, said he thought he should never go out of Oberlin — that he 
 should go out of the door but few times more — spoke again of writing a 
 farewell address to the Free-will Baptist denomination. As he was so 
 
 * Professor Finney was detained by sickness in his family. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 451 
 
 feeble, 1 suggested that instead of writing it himself he should employ 
 a stenographer. He thanked me for the suggestion. 
 
 November 3. Professor Finney called to see him. He again asked 
 him to preach his funeral sermon. Professor Finney, not supposing 
 him so ill, smiled and said : " I will, if you will agree to preach mine 
 if I die first." Soon he examined his pulse, appeared astonished and 
 said, " I did not think you were so low." He then prayed with him. 
 Mr. Marks told him how much he had loved to preach — said he wished 
 to be carried to the church, and give one more testimony for God. 
 Professor Finney replied : " I would love to have you, but I fear you 
 are too weak. Brother Marks," he continued, "you have done the 
 work of eighty years in forty. I don't know but it is good economy to 
 do our work quick, and save the time for heaven. I think it is. Such 
 is the selfishness and stupidity of the world, that unless a man makes a 
 tremendous eflfort, he can accomplish but little." 
 
 November 4. A physician, living several miles from Oberlin, who 
 had been sent for, called and stayed the night with him. He seemed 
 very confident that he could help him. Mr. Marks told him he would 
 take his medicine, but added : " It will do no good." He left his di- 
 rections, and promised to see him again in a week. 
 
 November 6. He dictated several hours to a stenographer his dying 
 message to his beloved brethren. He seemed much animated and to en- 
 joy it exceedingly. When he was through, expecting he would be 
 much exhausted, I asked him how he felt. " Oh ! well, very well ; I 
 have had a feast of fat things." In the afternoon. Elders S. C. Parker 
 and A. Curtis with some others came to see him, and asked him how he 
 was. He replied, " Happy, very happy. I have got almost well." The 
 next day, as they were about to leave, he said to one of the young brethren 
 with them, " Be strong. Let sanctification be your iiiotto. Set God before 
 you in all your meat, and drink, and dress, and when you enter the dark 
 valley of death, God will send kind angels to minister to you. I look 
 back upon my life, and have a sweet consciousness that I have not lived 
 to please myself, but have, through grace, been able to bear a pointed 
 testimony for God, and that, regardless of the frowns or praises even of 
 my friends, I have done what I believed my Lord called me to do, and 
 now while I approach the dark valley, God sends angels to minister un- 
 to me. They hover around me, and there is not a cloud between me 
 and my Savior." Taking Elder Parker by the hand, he said, " Fare- 
 well. We have spent happy hours together ; we part now, but shall 
 eoon meet again. I am going to my heavenly home. When I am gone, 
 remember my poor wife, and the poor slave." 
 
 November 10. Set up three or four hours, begged for something to 
 do that would be useful to his family. At his request, some pumpkins 
 were carried into his room, and he busied himself while he sat up cutting 
 them. Towards night Professor Finney called, and said, " Brother Marks, 
 how do you do?" " I am happy, very happy, happy as I can be." 
 Prof. Finney said, " You are doing well. I did not expect you had 
 made so much progress. You have got on well towards heaven." Mr. 
 Marks asked him if he had selected a text for his funeral. He answer- 
 ed that he had not. He then said, " A funeral sermon is for the living 
 and not for the dead. I have been thinking of several passages, but my 
 
452 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 mind does not settle on any. I have thought of this : ' Exercise thyself 
 rather unto godliness.' O, if I had health, how I would delight to run 
 through the churches, and again hold up the doctrine of holiness of 
 heart — of entire consecration to God." Professor Finney replied : " It 
 is well that it is in thine heart to build a house unto the Lord." In the 
 evening, as I was going to lie down, he asked me if I would give him 
 up. I told him I had not, for I was not convinced that it was the will 
 of the Lord to take him yet. He said, " You will have to give me up 
 very soon." Atone o'clock, I got up. He said, " lam weaker — thank 
 God for it. O I am happy, very happy ; I am going to my Father, to 
 the society of disembodied spirits, to the sweet labors of eternity. The 
 tomb is not gloomy. The Savior has passed through it. My bloated 
 limbs look beautiful to me, a sign that I am near my home." I asked 
 him if he were in haste to leave me. " O no," said he, "I have never 
 said with Paul I jirefer to depart, could I have health to preach the 
 glorious gospel ; but if unable to labor for God, I would prefer to depart. 
 This is a dark, wicked world, full of selfishness and unbelief, and there 
 is a great deal to be done. I should love to preach and labor here, but 
 my Father sees it not best. There is nothing to be accomplished by 
 my staying here. I have nothing to do. I am entirely reconciled and 
 ready. As I enter the dark valley, the Savior is with me — angels min- 
 ister unto me, and they seem to fan me with their wings. You have 
 been a good wife, and when you come to die, the same grace will be 
 given you. I have been sick a great while, and I rejoice to have the 
 question settled. I have been anxious about the result, and my friends 
 have been anxious. Either alternative would be joyful. I am a happy 
 man ; were I to live, it would be for the delightful work of saving souls, 
 but to die would be gain." 
 
 November 11. He wrote and talked all day — expressed great anxiety 
 to be carried to the chapel to give one more public testimony. I tried 
 to dissuade him, pleading that perhaps he might recover, and that such 
 a step might turn the scale. He did not think so, but would submit the 
 matter to me. If I was unwilling he would not go. After a fit of 
 coughing he looked at me and said, " O how much I would prefer to 
 spend my strength in publicly testifying for God, than in coughing and 
 struggling for breath. Who knows but that God by his Spirit, through 
 something I might say, would touch the heart of some one of the stu- 
 dents here, who would do much more for him than I could, should I live 
 to be old." I told him I could not bear such responsibility, I would op- 
 pose his desire no longer — I was willing he should go. He laughed and 
 wept for joy, and thanking me, said he knew it was affectionate anxiety 
 that had so long withholden my consent. He sent for Professors Finney 
 and Dascomb to consult them. Prof. Finney said he would love to 
 have him go, but he thought he would not live through it. Dr. Das- 
 comb thought the same. He thought differently, but he said, if he did 
 not, he would as lief die in the chapel as at home. It would be a glori- 
 ous death to die in the field. Prof. Finney said, if he desired it, he 
 should be gratified, and every arrangement should be made. He re- 
 quested Dr. Dascomb to make a post-mortem examination of his body. 
 He said he used to have a dread of death, which he supposed was con- 
 stitutional, and that he should never overcome it, and until lately it had 
 
DAVID MARKS. 458 
 
 always caused a shuddering to think of its approach, but now it seemed 
 a friend, a kind angel — its sting was taken away. He continued, " If 
 you take a bee, and extract its sting, it cannot harm you, even if it crawl 
 on your bosom." Seeing us weep around him, he would sing with a 
 smile, 
 
 " Weep not, my friends ; my friends, weep not for me. 
 All is well." 
 
 Said Professor Finney, " How strange it must seem to worldlings to 
 hear a man giving directions with such cheerfulness, about his own post- 
 mortem examination." Miss Curtis called. As he looked up and saw 
 the sun setting in the west, he said to her, " O this beautiful world. It 
 looks beautiful, because I see God in it. How beautiful every thing 
 looks about the house. The perfect adaptation of every thing in nature 
 to all its parts reveals God. I could sooner believe, that if the letters of 
 a newspaper were cut in pieces and scattered to the four winds, they 
 would fall in the city of New York and form a perfect volume, than that 
 this world came by chance, or that the Bible is not the book of God." 
 He spoke of going to his sweet home. She said to him, " You love 
 your wife so much, how can you bear to leave her ?" He replied, " I 
 know with whom I leave her. Our separation will be short : her Heav- 
 enly Father will not suffer her to shed a single tear, or endure a single 
 pang, which he will not overrule for her good. Not a hair of her head 
 can fall to the ground without His notice." 
 
 November 12. He wrote : " Being just ready to depart out of this 
 world unto the Father, my dear wife asks me to write in her album, and 
 this as one of the last mementoes that I can leave her. I comply with 
 the greatest pleasure, though probably this is the last writing that I 
 shall ever make — my heart being nearly drowned, and the pulsations of 
 life so weak as often to stop. I am now waiting hourly in expectation 
 of my change, being fully prepared, and filled with indescribable joy at 
 the thought of entering that world Avhere I can labor without sleep, and 
 work forever without fatigue. Sixteen years and forty-five days God 
 has lent us to each other in the Lord . Sweet have been these days ; and the 
 union without a bitter pang, has been an apprenticeship to prepare us 
 for the union of spirits in the next world. And though we are now- 
 called to part, it is but for a few days, and then to meet in that land 
 where ' Adieus' and ' Farewells' are sounds unknown." 
 
 He selected the hymns to be sung at his funeral, and wrote out the 
 first lines, in the following order ; 
 
 1st Hymn. " I would not live alway, I ask riot to stay, &c. 
 
 2d do. " Ah ! lovely appearance of death," &c. 
 
 3d do. " What is this that steals upon my frame, &c. 
 
 To be sung at my grave. 
 
 4th do. " Unveil thy bosom, faithful tomb," &c. 
 
 He requested, if it should be convenient, that the bearers should be min- 
 isters. I asked him why he wished this. " O," said he, " because I 
 loveihemso." After a few minutes silence he exclaimed, " What a 
 reality the Christian's hope is ! Nothing I ever experienced was more a 
 reality. Jesus said, ' Feel of me, a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as 
 
454 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 ye see me have.' " Mrs. Willard and some other friends called : as 
 ihey entered, he sung with much emotion, 
 
 " There is not a cloud that doth arise 
 To hide my Savior from my eyes, 
 I soon shall mount the upper skies, — 
 All is well." 
 
 Mrs. Willard said his countenance seemed radiant with glory, and his 
 sick room, which she expected would seem sad, was in reality bright 
 and joyful. 
 
 He passed a very sick and distressed night, and it was not thought he 
 would survive till morning. He said he had hoped to speak for God 
 once more, but did not think he should live to see the hour of his ap- 
 pointment. " O Father, not as I will, but as thou wilt. Thou know- 
 est I have not been idle in thy vineyard." During the night, several 
 times when he was thought to be dying, he sung, — 
 
 " Vital spark of heavenly flame, 
 Quit, O quit, this mortal frame ! 
 Trembling, hoping, lingering, flying, 
 O the pain, the bliss of dying ! 
 Cease fond nature, cease thy strife, 
 And let me languish into life." 
 
 His new physician spent the night with him. When he came, he 
 seemed astonished at the change he saw, and wept like a child as he 
 told him he must die. Mr. Marks heard him with a joyful smile. 
 
 November 13. He sent for Mr. Kinney to take a measure for his 
 coffin, and never was he measured for a suit of clothes with more cheer- 
 ful composure. He told him to make it plain, with no unnecessary 
 expense. He wished to have his shroud made without delay. After 
 some minutes silence he laughed and wept. I asked, why these emo- 
 tions. He said, " Heaven ! bright visions ! The reality of the Chris- 
 tian's hope ! Never was any thing of my life more real." 
 
 He prayed at morning family worship thus : " O holy Father, I thank 
 thee that thou didst forgive my sins and count me faithful in putting me 
 into the ministry, that these unworthy hands have handled the words of 
 eternal hfe. 1 thank thee for the mercies of my sickness, that I have 
 suffered so little pain, that as I am entering the dark valley, thou art 
 with me, that thou hast sent kind angels to minister unto me. O Jesus, 
 I thank thee for thy presence. What should I do, while heart and flesh 
 fail, without thee ! Let me see the light of thy blessed countenance to 
 the end. Bless my dear wife and sister. I thank thee that thou hast 
 prepared them to part with me. And now. Father, if it please thee to 
 keep the vital spark burning till the hour of my appointment, that I 
 may give one more testimony for thee I would rejoice; but. Father, thy 
 will be done." 
 
 Having talked incessantly for a time, I tried to persuade him to rest. 
 He replied, " Talking excites me and makes me easy. My soul is full, 
 like a cart pressed with sheaves, and I must give it vent. O if I had a 
 voice that could sound around the globe and make the whole earth hear, 
 every king, potentate, philosopher, and sceptic, how I would love to 
 preach an hour 1 O the Christian's hope ! The philosopher, after he 
 has fortified his giant intellect all his life, the utmost he can do is to die 
 
DAVID MARKS. 455 
 
 •with composure ; while the Christian, though weak and ignorant, not 
 only has composure, but ecstatic joy." 
 
 E. Hawley called, asked him how he was. " happy, happy, happy. 
 Home, home, home, sweet home ; there I can work without fatigue, and 
 labor without sleep." 
 
 Anna Mahan called; he said to her, " My bloated limbs, distended 
 stomach, suffocation, palpitating heart, are beautiful passports to my 
 long home, kind angels to release me from my clay." A little time af^ 
 ter, he said, with great emotion, " How differently I die from my Sa- 
 vior ! See him on the cross ! Nails through his hands and through his 
 feet ! I am surrounded with kind friends, ready to anticipate every 
 want." He gave his cane to Professor Finney, and his watch to his 
 sister. 
 
 At three o'clock to his great joy he was carried to the chapel, reclin- 
 ing on pillows in a large easy chair, and set down on the stand. Profes- 
 sor Finney announced to the assembly that it was doubtful whether he 
 would survive the effort to speak to them — that Dr. Dascomb was una- 
 ble to find any pulse in one wrist, and only a little trembling in the other. 
 He hoped if he should die in the attempt the people would remain in 
 their seats, as his friends near him would take care of him. A hymn 
 was sung, he prayed, and then addressed the audience about half an hour. 
 After he was carried home, he continued in great distress till midnight, 
 and was several times thought to be dying. He frequently sung, '' Vi- 
 tal spark," &c. At one time, he said, " I think I am going — straiten 
 my limbs — fold my arms on my bosom. O, if this be dying, it is happy 
 dying." 
 
 November 14. He said he was disappointed that he had not got 
 home, but not unhappy, he trusted not unreconciled. He said, " I have 
 been very happy, happy. Hallelujah to the Lamb ! how differently I 
 die from those that are not Christians. I go to a happy home, where 
 the sun will never go down, sorrow and sin will never come ; but 
 they to eternal darkness, where their selfishness in which they 
 have trained themselves will torment them forever. O, poor sin- 
 ners ! poor sinners ! " He prayed "O Jesus, when wilt thou cornel 
 Give me patience to wait." He said to me, with a look of in- 
 expressible tenderness, "If I am permitted to come on errands 
 to this world, I will visit you frequently and give you good suggestions." 
 He wished to see his class of little children, (who had met him in his 
 sick room for several months for prayer and religious instruction , some 
 of whom he thought had been converted.) They came into his room 
 two or three at a time. Taking them separately by the hand, he would 
 say, " My little dear, I am going to heaven where the Savior and angels 
 are. Will you be a good child and try to meet me there 1 I shall not 
 be able to teach you and pray with you any more. Remember what I 
 have said to you." Then kissing them, and frequently they kissing him, 
 they retired, sobbing as though their hearts would break. 
 
 He said, " If the worthless tree or shrub which has been cut down, 
 or whose ' stock has died in the ground,' will bud and grow, shall not 
 MAN, whose noble powers pant for immortality, live again? He will, I 
 know he will. O, the sweet, the glorious doctrine of the. resurrection ! 
 
456 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 It not only dispels the darkness of the tomb — the gloom of the grave- 
 but it even gilds its pathway with a heavenly radiance." 
 
 Mr. Bartlett called at evening, and though in great distress he looked 
 up and smiled. " You are happy," said Mr. B. " Why should I not 
 be? The greatest monarch that ever ascended a throne was never so 
 sure of the reality of enjoying wealth, honor, and glory as I am. God 
 makes it a reality to me. It is sure. I know it." He had a sinking 
 turn during the night — watchers thought he was going, and called me 
 to see him die. He soon revived and said, " Lord Jesus, 0, how long? 
 When wilt thou let the pilgrim go home 1 ' ' 
 
 November 15. He looked bright and happy. Exhibited the same 
 care and exactness in some little things for which he was remarkable 
 when in health. I said to him, he appeared so natural it did not seem 
 possible that he was going to die. " Why should I change?" said he. 
 " I expect to die David Marks. I have lived for Godi and heaven — for the 
 judgment and eternity. I have lived with death in view, and now why 
 should I change?" He inquired if his coffin and shroud were done, 
 then sung — 
 
 "Jerusalem, my happy home, 
 O, how I long for thee," «fec. 
 
 After a little silence, as if in deep meditation, he asked me, *' What 
 do you think my mother and brother Jeremiah will say to me when I 
 meet them in the spirit world ? There are many there that will be glad 
 to see me." 
 
 Sunday, November 16. Very feeble, unable to lie down without 
 great distress, said it was a good symptom, a symptom that he could en- 
 dure but a little while, that he was nearly through. He talked little, 
 was very patient and happy, frequently sung — 
 
 " I am thinking all the while, 
 When will my summons come," 
 
 Also — 
 
 " .Jerusalem, my happy home, 
 O, how I long for thee," &c. 
 
 He said, "I am not going to die, I am only going to sleep. It is 
 not death but life." Passed a restless night. 
 
 November 17. He wished he had a stenographer, to whom he could 
 dictate a few dying messages to some of his friends, especially to some 
 impenitent relatives. I asked him to whom he wished to write. He 
 mentioned several, saying, " I wish you to say to them individually, 
 from me, that it will be a dark and dreadful hour, if they come to the 
 valley of death without Christ ; and that I beseech them to turn to God, 
 and never rest till they have the evidence that their sins are forgiven." 
 To a Christian relative whom he named, he wished me to say, " I beseech 
 her always to bear the cross, and then I have the fullest confidence, I shall 
 meet her in heaven. Tell her to say to her mother, (a lady nearly 
 ninety years of age,) that I have never in all my life experienced any re- 
 ality that was more positive and certain than the Christian's hope, and I 
 beseech her not to rest until she has obtained that hope." 
 
 He had frequently conversed with little Julia about leaving her, and 
 
DAVID MARKS. 457 
 
 ■often pi-ayed with her. At one time, he said to her: *' I shall soon be 
 gone, and your dear mamma will be very lonely and feel very bad, and 
 she will sometimes go with you and visit my grave. I want you to be 
 very good and kind to her and comfort her all you can." He gave hex 
 a Bible and two hymn books, and wrote in them, after her name, " Pre- 
 sented by her dying father." Prof. Finney called. He took his hand 
 and with tears said, " Brother Finney, O I am glad that never for the 
 sake of interest have I avoided preaching the truth and standing up in 
 defence of great principles. What comfort it gives me." He often ex- 
 pressed great thankfulness for having been permitted to be carried 
 to the chapel and the opportunity he there enjoyed of speaking for 
 God. 
 
 November 20. His voice began to fail. He tried to sing, but finding 
 he could not, he smiled very sv.^eetly and said : " Soon I shall have new 
 lungs." The day following was worse, suffered much from suffocation, 
 said he should soon choke to death, or rather choke into life. Was much 
 distressed till midnight. 
 
 November 22. He was more comfortable. He longed to go where 
 he could do something for God. Prof. Finney said to him — " Never in 
 your life were you doing more good than you now are. You are preach- 
 ing all the time. The people here are running in to hear what you say, 
 others are inquiring of them, and you ought not to feel that you are do- 
 ing nothing. Are you not willing to remain where you are a hundred 
 years, if it should be the will of God?" After a moment's pause, he said, "I 
 never thought of such a thing before, but certainly I would." After- 
 wards he said, " That was a hard question — I answered yes, because 
 for many years I have been resolved to have no will but the will of 
 God." 
 
 Mr. Belden from Amherst called to see him. He wept, and as he 
 took him by the hand, said, " O how I love you. O that you had this 
 anchor to the soul that I have. You have been kind to me. Your 
 house has been a pleasant home. I cannot bear the thought that we 
 shall not meet again. My coffin and shroud are ready and waiting for 
 me, and I am going to my happy home. O, will you try to meet me in 
 heaven ?" Mr. B. wept profusely — said he would. 
 
 November 23. He was very weak and hoarse. Taking Prof. Fin- 
 ney's hand, he said, '^O how I love you. How happy we shall be 
 when we meet in the spirit- land, where the watchmen shall see eye to 
 eye, where there shall be no more pain." " And," said Prof. Finney, 
 " where we shall run to see each other die no more." " O," said he, 
 *' this has been a sweet life to me, I think it will be a sweet death, and 
 it will be a sweet heaven." He was anxious for a speedy release, said 
 that never did any one more intensely long to lie down and sleep than 
 he longed to go to his long, sweet home. 
 
 November 24. Was very languid and greatly exhausted — prayed 
 that he might depart — said that angels were waiting at the portals of 
 heaven to receive his spirit. Observing him looking very earnestly round 
 the room, I asked him what he was looking at. "I was trying to see 
 whether I could see angels." Said I, " You have said much about an- 
 gels visiting you. What do you mean by it ? Have you actually seen 
 them?" He replied, " Not with my natural eyes, but with an eye of 
 39 
 
458 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 faith. I know they are here. They are around my bed and in my 
 room." 
 
 Mr. Willard called. Taking his hand, he said, " I have loved you 
 much. Sweet has been our acquaintance. O, if you can see it duty, 
 preach the gospel. Do all the good you can. I have been thinking 
 over the toilsome labors which have literally worn me out at the age of 
 forty ; and the remembrance of the particular efforts I have made, through 
 storms and fatigue, to preach the gospel to poor sinners, look to me now 
 as the brightest spots of my life. Often, to reach my appointments, I 
 have rode or walked without a dry thread about me, and in that state 
 gone into congregations and preached." 
 
 He talked some time with me, advising me what to do for the future. 
 Among other things, he said, " I charge you, don't let your affection for 
 me keep any of my clothes that you can dispose of in any manner to 
 be useful to you, or to others. In my view, it would be a species of idol- 
 atry." 
 
 After a few moments, seeing me weep, he repeated : " Our light 
 afflictions which are but for a moment, shall work out for us a far — 
 more — exceeding — and eternal weight of glory. O what language ! 
 What a combination of words ! How expressive ! What ideas ! far 
 '-'more — exceeding — and eternal — weight — not a quantity but WEIGHT 
 of glory ! No mere rhetorician, no uninspired man, ever wrapped up 
 so much meaning in so few words. O I would not rob you of one star 
 in your crown by wishing your sufferings less. God will sanctify them 
 all, I know he will." 
 
 Professor Finney called and inquired about his mind. He said 
 it was hard work for him to think much. Prof. F. remarked he had 
 been expecting his mind to fail. He replied, " I have always felt a 
 great horror of being deranged in my last moments, but now I feel per- 
 fectly willing; for," he added with great emphasis, " «// is safe.''^ 
 Two or three hours after this, his mind began to wander, and the use of 
 his faculties rapidly failed. JPassed a very distressed night. 
 
 November 25. Weaker than ever, was greatly distressed, thanked 
 God for it, — said, " Home ! home ! home I Hallelujah !" — sung 
 
 " Cease, fond nature." — 
 
 He smiled continually, and bore his sufferings with a meekness and 
 patience that seemed almost sublime. 
 
 He dictated the following letters. The first was addressed to a min- 
 ister. 
 
 "Dear brother, — I expect some to get home to-day — to my sweet, 
 long home. I hope you will yet meet me there, but as I had not 
 strength to converse with you as I wished when you called, I want to 
 dictate to my wife a dying message for you. I have for the twenty-five 
 years of my ministry borne a pointed rebuke against sin, even the sins 
 of my dearest friends, perfectly regardless of personal interest, for I 
 have feared God ! 1 knew I was going to the judgment. This has 
 caused me enemies and opposition, but now, in my dying moments, the 
 joy it gives me is inexpressible. I have often been personal and said 
 ' Thou art the man,' and O the peace, the peace, the peace, it gives. 
 My garments are clear from the blood of souls. I want to say to you in 
 the utmost love ; * # * Stand up in defence of great prin- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 459 
 
 ciples. Do right and the God of peace will be with you. May God 
 make you a holy and efficient minister, that shall have many souls in 
 your crown. Farewell till we meet above. 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 [To the December term of the Lorain quarterly meeting.] 
 
 *' Dearly beloved brethren : — 
 
 Before this reaches you, I shall be in heaven with Christ and 
 glorified spirits around God's burning throne. I go rejoicing with joy 
 unspeakable and full of glory. The valley of death is not dark but 
 light and shining, for God is with me. His everlasting arms are under- 
 neath me. Dear brethren, I want you to meet me in that bright world. 
 I thought I should labor and suffer a little more with you when I met 
 you in the last session of the quarterly meeting, but my Heavenly Fa- 
 ther hath need of me for the work of the spirit-land, for which he has 
 perfectly fitted and trained me. Suffer a word of exhortation from your 
 dying brother, the last he will ever say to you. Be fearless, bold, un- 
 compromising in the defence of truth, while you exhibit all the meek- 
 ness and gentleness of Christ. Love and cherish those faithful servants 
 of God, who, regardless of your favors or frowns, dare to tell you your 
 sins. Don't count them your enemies, for they are your best friends. 
 O seek for holiness of heart, entire consecration to God, for sympathy 
 with Christ. This is a dark world, full of selfishness and sin. God has 
 need of you, my brethren, to aid in the work of saving souls. O how 
 many around you, even some in your own families, are living without 
 God ! and O, dreadful thought ! how many are at ease in Zion, their 
 minds blinded by the god of this world, stumbling-blocks to the 
 impenitent around them ! O what a fearful experience awaits such 
 souls ! ! 
 
 But, brethren, you cannot labor successfully for God unless your 
 hearts are right — unless you are filled with the Spirit. O will you seek 
 for a revival of God's work throughout your borders, first, by searching 
 your own hearts faithfully, and getting them filled with the love of God, 
 and then laboring with mighty prayer, and with earnest, faithful warn- 
 ings of those around you who are away from God. 
 
 My soul mourns over the trials among you, but it affords me great 
 joy in these my last hours, that my Heavenly Father permitted me to 
 meet you at your last session, and leave with you my testimony to 
 great principles. O my brethren, never, O never, let satan so beguile 
 you, that you shall attempt to muzzle the mouths of God's ministers. 
 Let them do the preaching God bids them. They are His ambassadors. 
 
 how often have brethren, and dear brethren, since I commenced in the 
 ministry, wanted me to preach smooth things, begged me not to say 
 any thmg about masonry, temperance, missions, slavery, &c. saying if 
 
 1 did, I would offend some who were my warm friends and who had 
 contributed to my necessities. At such times, how has my spirit burn- 
 ed within me, and I have felt to say, " Get behind me satan." The 
 judgment and eternity would rise up before me, — my awful responsibil- 
 ity to God and undying souls — and the truth upon those points, would 
 be like fire shut up in my bones, so that my spirit had no rest till I had 
 declared it whether men would hear or forbear, whether I had abun- 
 
460 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 dance or lacked the necessities of life. O the sweet peace I now enjoy. 
 My garments are pure from the blood of souls. I have not shunned to 
 declare the counsel of God. There is not a cloud between me and my 
 Savior. The light of his blessed countenance constantly shines upon 
 my soul. O how much this is worth in such an hour as this. Breth- 
 ren, would you exchange it for the applause of all the mortal worms 
 of earth? If you would, I would not. My soul is full. I was never 
 before so happy. O the peace, the joy, the ecstacy, that God continual- 
 ly gives me. Brethren, be faithful to God and truth, and this rich ex- 
 perience will be yours in a dying hour. Farewell till we meet above. 
 
 Yours for immortality, 
 
 David Marks." 
 
 November 26. He appeared to have his senses, but his mind was 
 extremely weak, so that it was difficult for him to remember what he 
 wished to say, after he commenced a sentence. Still he was inexpress- 
 ibly happy. He said to Elder Knight, "0, Brother Knight, preach, 
 preach a Holy Ghost religion." 
 
 Seeing me weeping, said he, " My dear Marilla, I shall love you as 
 well, yes, better, when I am gone, than I ever have on earth, and I have 
 no doubt but that my spirit will often visit you and minister to you, per- 
 haps be your guardian angel." A little after noon, Prof. Finney call- 
 ed. I told him my husband's unsuccessful attempt the day previous to 
 write his name. He smiled and said, " I think I can write it to-day." 
 A pencil and paper were handed him. He wrote very awkwardly, '* Da- 
 vidd.^^ On being told of it, he clapped his hands, and with tears of joy, 
 shouted as loud as his hoarse voice would permit, " Bless the Lord, 
 bless the Lord, Hallelujah. Am I so near my home 1 Can't write my 
 name. O, bless the Lord." Seizing Prof. Finney's hand, he continu- 
 ed, " O, bless the Lord, that I am so near home, home, sweet home." 
 He then threw his arms round my neck — " my dear wife, you have 
 been a faithful, good wife ; we shall soon meet. You have been a faith- 
 ful Christian — a great help to me in my ministry. You never held me 
 back, never placed the least hinderance in my way. God will bless you. ' ' 
 Said Prof. Finney to the by-standers — " Mark the perfect man, and be- 
 hold the upright, for the end of that man is peace." 
 
 He seemed remarkably affectionate and child-like. A barber shaved 
 him. (A colored man.) Hekissedhim very affectionately, and looking up, 
 said : " O, how I love you, God bless you." Several friends called. It 
 seemed as if his heart burned with affection. He would kiss them, and as 
 they were going out would say, " I hate to have you go." He expressed 
 much concern about my health, requested some friends to watch over 
 me, and frequently said : " Poor child ! Poor child !" 
 
 November 27. Seemed very easy but extremely weak. Spoke in a 
 whisper. Said little. Mrs. Professor Allen called, and asked for my 
 signature to a petition, remonstrating against the annexation of Texas. 
 Mr. Marks eagerly inquired, " May my name go on?" He was told 
 that this petition was exclusively for ladies, but that there was a 
 similar one circulating in the village for gentlemen, and if he wished, 
 his name should go on that. He said, " I do wish it." One of his at- 
 tendants promised him that it should be done. At every arrival of his 
 
DAVID MARKS. 461 
 
 anti-slavery papers, he would ask me to see if there was any good 
 news for God's afflicted, oppressed poor. The last that it is recollect- 
 ed that he read was in an anti-slavery paper a day or two previous to 
 this date. 
 
 Professors Finney and Morgan called. Throwing his arms around 
 Professor Morgan's neck, he said, " I have wanted to see you very 
 much." Professor Morgan spoke of a certain Christian who said he 
 would rather die and have his body laid in the grave, than be translated 
 as Enoch was, because his Savior died and was buried. I asked him if 
 he felt so. He said, " O yes, if it be the Lord's will." The two fol- 
 lowing days he said little, slept most of the time. 
 
 November 30. Failed very fast. At night had no pulse. Slept 
 most of the night. 
 
 December 1 . Slept very sweetly, reclining on pillows in his easy 
 chair. About eight o'clock, A. M. Professor Finney called. I arous- 
 ed him, but as he took no notice of him, I inquired, " Do you know 
 who that isT' He smiled and said, " Yes, I do. It is my brother Fin- 
 ney," and immediately fell asleep. As Professor Finney was about to 
 leave, I tried to arouse him again ; and as he saw him going out, he 
 whispered, " Farewell," which was about the last word he was heard 
 to say. When spoken to afterwards, sometimes he would answer 
 "Yes," or "No," at other times would only smile. A little before 
 noon, he made a signal to be laid on his couch. His attendants attempt- 
 ed to remove him, but it distressed him so much, that he desired to be 
 set back in his chair, when, with a sweet smile, he fell asleep almost 
 instantly. He continued to sleep as quietly as an infant till about half 
 past four o'clock, P. M., when he made another signal to be removed to 
 his couch. As he was set down on the bed, a change was perceived. 
 I took his head on a pillow, he placed one hand under his head, while 
 little Julia, weeping and sobbing, took the other. His eyes rolled back 
 in his head, he breathed hard four or five times, and then, without a 
 struggle or a groan, or even one gasp, all was still. He was gone ! 
 His spirit had soared on angel wings. 
 
 December 2. Professor Dascomb, assisted by Doctors Steele and 
 Boyce, made a post mortem examination, which they reported as fol- 
 lows : 
 
 " A post mortem examination of Elder Marks, twenty-four hours after 
 death, exhibited the system generally in a dropsical state. 
 
 The cavity of the chest contained several pints of water. The heart 
 was enlarged, and together with the membrane lining the cavity of the 
 chest, presented indications of chronic inflammation. 
 
 The cavity of the abdomen contained about two gallons of water. 
 The liver and spleen were both much hardened by disease, especially the 
 latter organ. The disease of these organs was undoubtedly of long 
 standing. Extensive adhesions were found about the kidneys, and in- 
 deed the organs in this cavity generally bore strong marks of the rav- 
 ages of chronic inflammation. The inner coat of the stomach, espec- 
 ially, had been in a state of universal inflammation. 
 
 The external dropsy, or the effusion of water into the cellular tissue, 
 was confined to the body and lower limbs, the head and arms being quite 
 free from it. 
 
 39* 
 
462 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 The lungs had a more healthy appearance than any of the other in- 
 ternal organs." 
 
 December 3. About one o'clock, P. M., his corpse was removed to 
 the new brick meeting house, which was the first ever carried within its 
 walls. Several brethren and sisters followed in the procession as mourn- 
 ers. Professor Finney preached from the text Mr. Marks had suggested. 
 Professor Cowles, editor of the Oberlin Evangelist, briefly reported the 
 sermon as follows, with the exception of a few passages which were 
 omitted, and which have since been supplied by Professor Finney.* 
 
 SERMON. 
 
 Text — 1 Tim. 4:7. " Exercise thyself rather unto godliness.''^ 
 In discussing the subject presented in the text, I shall consider, 
 
 I. The spirit of the injunction it contains. 
 
 II. The conditions of obeying it. 
 
 III. The reasons for the injunction. 
 
 I. Taking into view the whole of the verse of which the text is a 
 part, it is obvious that there are two prime ideas involved in the spirit of 
 the injunction : — namely, 
 
 1 . A caution against giving attention to things that are idle and profit- 
 less. By " profane and old wives' fables," Paul may have referred 
 to the doctrines of the Rabbins, than which nothing can well be more 
 worthless and ill befitting a sensible and Christian man who has the gos- 
 pel to preach to perishing men. Take heed, Paul would say to his son 
 Timothy — take heed that you be not ensnared by any reading, or any 
 legends of tradition which can only amuse without instructing, and 
 therefore waste time without profit. Let " old wives' fables" alone. 
 A man of God to be thoroughly furnished must store his mind with 
 better things than those. If thou Avouldst keep thyself pure, take care 
 to avoid such things. Fables and stories for amusement, fit only for 
 such as are in their first or second childhood, will pollute your mind, 
 and grieve away the Holy Spirit of Truth. From all such things turn 
 away. 
 
 2. Exercise thyself rather unto godliness. This is the more excel- 
 lent way. Practice godliness ; — not only learn what it is, but put it in 
 practice — bring it into your daily spirit and daily life. Godliness is be- 
 ing like God. Of course the meaning of this precept is — become God- 
 like. Adopt the spirit of Jesus your Master, and live a life like His. 
 Exercise yourself in this. The word exercise seems to be an allusion 
 to the ancient Elysian and Olympic games, in which various exercises 
 were carefully practiced, to discipline the body for victory in the hour of 
 conflict. The next verse sustains this allusion — " Bodily exercise 
 profiteth little." Yet those candidates for contest in the games, 
 shrink not from any severity of discipline — they keep their body under 
 and are temperate in all things, — only to obtain a perishable twig of 
 laurel. How much more should you exercise yourself to be like God, 
 
 * It is due to Professor Finney to remark that most reporters have found it difficult to 
 do him justice. On account of his rapid delivery, they have seldom been able to pre- 
 serve his language, and present his thoughts in his own peculiar, bold, and lucid man- 
 uer. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 4G3 
 
 since the prize is an immortal crown of glory, and the profit is beyond 
 measure great, both in this life and the next ? 
 
 These two points then — (first avoid all diverting and polluting influ- 
 ences, and, secondly, discipline yourself to become like God,) constitute 
 the spirit of the injunction of our text. 
 
 II. We pass to notice some of the conditions of obeying it. 
 
 1 . True and thorough regeneration — a new birth which transforms the 
 moral character, causing old things to pass away and all things to be- 
 come new. This is a change not merely of opinion, or of intellect, but 
 of the heart. There is no beginning to exercise one's self unto godli- 
 ness without this change. This change itself is from the image of sa- 
 tan to the image of God. 
 
 2. The baptism of the Holy Spirit. This is perfectly indispensable to 
 success and even to diligent effort. The being like God, which is re- 
 quired and implied in exercising one's self unto godliness, demands a 
 deep study of God and of godliness. But none will ever learn God 
 except as taught by the Spirit. And none will exercise themselves in 
 this study and in the practice of living like God unless the Spirit of 
 God mightily imbue their hearts. 
 
 3. A deep and abiding sympathy with God. There is substantial and 
 rich meaning in this language. There is such a thing as having sym- 
 pathy with God. Nay, every real Christian must and does have such 
 sympathy — he enters into the feelings of the Deity — adopts the same 
 great end of life, — has the same objects of supreme affection, so that 
 heart beats in unison with heart. This is sympathy — such as man 
 must have with his God. This is plainly involved in exercising one's 
 self unto godliness. 
 
 To obey this precept effectually, you must have so strong and deep 
 a sympathy with God as shall, 
 
 (1.) Overcome the love of promiscuous reading. By " profane" in 
 the verse of our text is meant whatever is not sacred ; just as we call 
 all history profane history wnich is not sacred history. The true spirit 
 of the requirement therefore enjoins Christians to forego at least in gen- 
 eral all profane reading, and certainly all that in the least interferes 
 with exercising themselves unto godliness. No profane works are to 
 be read or studied only so far as their reading and study will make you 
 more like God, and thus help you in exercising yourself unto godliness. 
 You must have so much sympathy with God as shall annihilate all rel- 
 ish for reading that tends not to make you like God. Nothing can be 
 more certain than this. 
 
 (2.) Again, so deep must be your sympathy with God that it shall 
 quite overcome the disposition to useless speculation and vain philoso- 
 phizing. There is a vast amount of this among men whose minds are 
 more intellectual than spiritual, and who love the amusement of curious 
 speculation more than the luxury of studying the depths of godliness. 
 This state of mind must be changed. Those studies which furnish 
 neither the head nor the heart with any thing really useful to God or 
 man must be put away : — nay, you must have so vital a sympathy with 
 God, that it shall quite eradicate that vile taste for things profitless, and 
 implant a vigorous thirsting of soul after the better things of God. 
 
4C4 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 (3.) So deep must be your sympathy with God that it shall destroy 
 your love of popularity with men. Surely you must have enough of 
 God to effect this, or you cannot in spirit obey the injunction of our 
 text. You never can exercise yourself to be like God until you value 
 his favor incomparably more than the favor of man. Indeed, according 
 to the Bible, you cannot even believe, so long as you " seek honor one of 
 another, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only." Plainly, 
 you must have so much sympathy with God as shall overcome alike the 
 love of applause and the fear of reproach*— for while these prevail, you 
 will do any thing rather than exercise yourself unto godliness. 
 
 (4.) Of sympathy with God you must have enough to overcome the 
 thirst for worldly gain. So long as this thirst bears sway in your heart, 
 you surely cannot exercise yourself to be like God. You must be satis- 
 fied with the comforts of life, and content with the awards of divine 
 providence — content Ifeoreover to live by faith in God for future good, so 
 as to have no anxieties except for the kingdom of God and his right- 
 eousness. Else you cannot exercise yourself for the Christian strife. 
 
 (5.) Your sympathy with God must be so strong as to overcome your 
 love of ease. Those men of the Olympic games had to crucify their 
 love of ease. So and much more must you if you would contend with 
 principalities and powers, with the rulers of the darkness of this world, 
 with wicked spirits in high places. So and much more if you would 
 exercise yourself unto godliness. Did Christ indulge his love of ease, 
 or did Paul ? Have any of those men ever done so who have achieved 
 much for God, or for their generation according to the will of God? 
 
 (6.) You must have sympathy with God in such a degree as shall 
 suppress a self-indulgent spirit. Even Christ pleased not himself — nor did 
 Paul, nor have ever any of those men whose life and labors have blessed 
 the world, and have secured the favor of God. No man can live for the 
 end of self-indulgence, and yet do any thing great and good for God or 
 for his race. 
 
 (7.) Your sympathy with God must beget a self-sacrificing spirit. 
 The doctrine of the gospel on this point is — " Present your bodies a liv- 
 ing sacrifice unto God." All mast belaid on his altar. He demands 
 a whole burnt-offering. 
 
 I have been struck with the exemplification of this, in the example 
 which brother Marks has left us. Indeed, if this were the place, I could 
 show, under each of these heads, how appositely each point is illustrated 
 in his life and spirit. Seldom in any man have I seen the love of ease 
 and of reputation so entirely subdued. He has often told me that he 
 grudged the hours of sleep. He could not bear to suspend his labors 
 for God long enough to take the repose which his physical and nervous 
 system demanded. 
 
 A man needs to have his heart so set upon his work as to beget a 
 thirst after truth, and an intense desire to know what he shall do to hon- 
 or and serve God. Unless a man has this spirit, he cannot do much for 
 his generation. He must have enough of it to set his soul all on fire to 
 get at the very foundations of those great principles which are involved 
 in the salvation of our race. The men who would move the minds of 
 the age must understand these things fundamentally. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 465 
 
 Again, a man must have great honesty, and a child-like spirit, if he 
 would attain the truth and avoid all enor. " Except ye be converted 
 and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of 
 heaven." This was a most remarkable feature in the character of 
 brother Marks. In illustration of it I may adduce one fact of his his- 
 tory. He once fell into a snare in consequence of reading a book in de- 
 fence of Unitarianism. It presented arguments which he did not then 
 see how to answer, and his honesty was such that he could do no other- 
 wise than to hold his mind in suspense and humbly seek for light. 
 There stood the arguments which he knew not how to meet : he could 
 not get round them or thrust them aside out of his way. It should be 
 noted here that he was yet very young, and not extensively read in the 
 abstruse things of divinity. He began to preach at the age of fifteen, 
 and devoted so much time to preaching, as left little leisure for deep 
 study in the more speculative departments of polemic theology. To re- 
 turn. As his honesty and simplicity of character were conspicuous in 
 the way of his getting into the snare, so were they also in his way of 
 getting out. He shrank not away from his ministerial brethren, afraid 
 of their censure, and sensitive lest his orthodoxy should be questioned — 
 No, he frankly laid before them all his difficulties. A father in the min- 
 istry asked him to sit down with himself and read the Bible. They 
 began with the first chapter of Paul to the Hebrews, and read "on with 
 no marked results till they came to the tenth verse. Here, said brother 
 Marks, the aged father paused, laid his finger down upon it, and read 
 it with such a tone of reverence and solemn emphasis, as made its truth 
 flash in floods of light upon my mind. " Thou, Lord, in the beginning 
 hast laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the works of 
 thy hands." I now, said he, saw Jesus to be the supreme Creator in 
 so strong and clear a view as showed me at once that I could no longer 
 suppose him to have made the worlds by any delegated power. Thus 
 his candor and honesty brought him promptly out of the snare, and are 
 not less beautifully illustrated here than in his manner of holding up his 
 mind when unanswerable arguments fell in his way. 
 
 Once more, let me observe, you must have so much sympathy with 
 God as will overcome ungodly ambition. Else you cannot live for God, 
 for this ambition can never be blended with godliness. 
 
 Again, an essential condition of obeying the injunction of the text is 
 great love for spiritual labor, love for every sort of labor to which the 
 Lord calls you. This has a most remarkable illustration in the case of 
 our deceased brother. You know he has preached a great deal — few 
 men of his years, if any, have preached so much. And he has loved 
 this work. His love and thirst for his work have been all-consuming. 
 It seemed to swallow up his whole soul. His economy of his time was 
 most rigid. No man perhaps was ever more peculiar for this than he. 
 You have seen him riding these streets in his little old wagon, or on 
 horseback, and reading all along as he went, jealous lest even a moment 
 should slip away unimproved. I have often gazed at him with admira- 
 tion, as I have seen him, sometimes drawing lumber, and seated upon a 
 board or upon the naked reach of his little wagon, so deeply engaged in 
 reading, that, but for the fact that his little horse w'as so aged and gen- 
 tle, I should have feared for his safety in riding with no attention to his 
 
466 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 driving. I have met him oat of the village, riding in the same manner, 
 so lost in reading as not to appear to know whether he was going or 
 standing still. You would be surprised to know how rigidly his manner 
 of spending his time was noted down — how carefully all his moments 
 were measured out, and how scrupulous he was to see to it that every 
 moment was well spent.* 
 
 I only add further, that any man to comply with this requirement 
 needs a most controlling and absorbing love for souls. Such a love for 
 souls had Paul, and such had his great Master. 
 
 III. I must next adduce some of the reasons for this requirement. 
 
 1. This world is a place of training for the next. This is its chief 
 business. The characters of men are here being moulded either to be 
 like God or like the devil. All moral agents here are either preparing 
 for those high scenes of usefulness and glory that are reserved for the 
 saints ; or for the wailings, the blasphemies, and the despair of the 
 damned. Now, be it well understood, if a man is not exercising himself 
 unto godliness, he is not training for heaven. " Blessed be God," said 
 brother Marks, " God has trained me for my work. I doubt not that 
 when I get into eternity, I shall find that all my labors here, and all my 
 love for my work, have been fitting me for a more glorious sphere of la- 
 bor there. O, it will be so blessed to work for God to all eternity ! 
 There I shall never tire, never wear out ; shall not need to stop to sleep 
 or to eat — but may go on mv unwearied and unretarded course forev- 
 er!" 
 
 2. The Apostle subjoins as another reason for exercising one's self 
 unto godliness — For bodily exercise profiteth little. It is of small avail 
 to chastise the body and discipline it as the ancient athletae were wont to 
 do ; and all the usual results of physical labor now are of small account ; 
 but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of all needed 
 good here and of all possible good hereafter. 
 
 3. It is indispensable to doing much in this w-orld. No man will ever 
 do much unless he accustoms himself to work with all his might, and 
 sees to it moreover that his work be indeed exercising himself unto god- 
 liness, laboring to become and be like God. Then something great and 
 good will be done. 
 
 4. This is indispensable to true peace of mind. A man may have an 
 Antinomian peace of mind without it — a peace delusive and baseless, 
 resting on that strange notion that Christ's righteousness imputed to us 
 while we live in sin, avails for us, instead of Christ's righteousness 
 wrought in us. How many such there are now, filling the church with 
 numbers, with spiritual lethargy, and fatal delusion ! Ask such — Are 
 you personally holy ? O no, I know I am not ; but I trust in Christ's 
 imputed righteousness. Are you indeed walking with God and living 
 for God daily 1 O, I do not expect to do that myself — I believe in an 
 
 * For many years, Mr. Marks had been in the habit ofkeeping a most rigid account of 
 the occupancy of his time. He alwajs carried with him a little book, called his " Time 
 Economizer," in which he daily charged himself with the twenty-four hours, and on re- 
 tiring for the night, accounted for every jnoment as carefully as a miser would reckon 
 his dollars and cents. Several times during the last two years of his life, he attempted 
 to lay aside this practice, thinking it had injured his health, but so powerful had the 
 habit become, that its suspension affected him so unpleasantly that he would soon resume 
 it as the least of two evils. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 467 
 
 imputed righteousness. Christ has obeyed the law perfectly ; his obe- 
 dience answers instead of mine. Thus a man may cry, peace, peace, 
 and his conscience be quite at ease in his sins ; but assuredly unless he 
 exercise himself unto godliness, he can have no solid peace here nor 
 hereafter. 
 
 5. It is indispensable to peace with God. It is absurd that God should 
 be at peace with a man who is not holy ; — who does not exercise him- 
 self unto godliness : and is not perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 
 It is indeed a marvellous fact that men should thus pervert the gospel — 
 should thus dream of being in such a covenant with Christ that God will 
 accept them while they are living in sin. Is Christ the minister of sin? 
 Did he come both to save his people from their sins, and also to quiet 
 their consciences, and give them peace in their sins by his imputed 
 righteousness ? What can be more absurd ? It would not be easy to 
 name a sentiment fraught with more mischief to the souls of men than 
 this. 
 
 Again, it is indispensable to salvation. No man can be saved who 
 does not exercise himself unto godliness. It is the only consistent 
 course. Every Christian professes to be a follower of Christ. Consis- 
 tency therefore requires that he should be. 
 
 It is indispensable to a right understanding of the spirit of the gospel, 
 also to true spirituality of mind. Persons may talk about being spirit- 
 ually minded ; but it is all a dream unless they exercise themselves unto 
 godliness. Away with all such spirituality ! Perhaps they would im- 
 mure themselves in a monastery, or resign themselves to mystic dream- 
 ing, but unless they vigorously seek to live for God, and exercise them- 
 selves to do all his will, it can avail them nothing. 
 
 Again, this is the only comfortable course of life. There will indeed 
 be many trials, but those who meet and endure them in the spirit of 
 faith and patience can bear a full and glorious testimony that this is the 
 only way of comfort. 
 
 Let me add that this is the only course that is honorable to God, also 
 that this is the only course of usefulness. I have known more than 
 one poor woman, an invalid too perhaps, and unable to do any thing but 
 pray and converse, and pour out the fullness of the soul on the great 
 things of God's kingdom — such I have known who have done apparent- 
 ly more good than almost any minister of the gospel. O, it is a luxury 
 to hear such persons recount the mercies of God towards themselves. 
 In conversing with one of them not long since, a member of the church 
 of which I was pastor when in the city of New York, I was greatly in- 
 terested in the story of the good hand of God upon her, since I had seen 
 her. She was brought up a slave until (I think) forty years of age. 
 When a child, herself and two little brothers were sold into a most 
 Christless and cruel family, I believe in the northern part of New Jer- 
 sey, or in southern New York. She has informed me that they had no 
 bed or covering whatever provided for them in the coldest weather in 
 winter, — that they would lie down together upon the kitchen floor, and 
 as the room grew cold, would get upon the hearth close together as pos- 
 sible, and, to keep from freezing, would get more and more into the fire- 
 place, until sometimes they were severely burned in their sleep. This is 
 a specimen of her treatment when young. But God finally gave her lib- 
 
468 MEitoins OP 
 
 erty and converted her soul. She is a cripple and an invalid, and has 
 lived these many years hy faith. It is always refreshing to meet her 
 and witness her confidence in God. She does much for the Cause of 
 God in many ways. Although she is unable to work, and lives wholly 
 on the free-will offerings of her friends, yet she gives more in money to 
 support the gospel, than many men of wealth. She knows how to draw 
 upon the " Bank of Faith." She contributes regularly twenty-five 
 cents every Sabbath to the support of public worship? This amounts to 
 $ 13. a year. When I asked her how she obtained it, she replied that 
 she obtained it by faith ; that whatever she may need, she always lays 
 by the first money that is given her from week to week, to give the next 
 Sabbath to the support of the gospel. This amount is what she gives 
 where she worships. To the mission, and to every good cause, she 
 contributes; and by visiting, conversation, and prayer, she effects 
 much for the cause of Christ. There is another woman in New York, 
 who, although entirely destitute of earthly goods of her own, and con- 
 fined these many years to her room, and most of the time to her bed, is 
 a living example of the power of faith and prayer. She is also able, 
 through faith, to contribute to every good cause, more in money, than 
 is given by many wealthy professors of religion. These women, and 
 other men and women like them, are full of faith and the Holy Ghost. 
 They have learned to live by faith in Jesus, and when they open their 
 mouths to speak of his love, you see that their souls are ravished, and 
 that .Tesus is indeed to them the chief among ten thousands. They have 
 thoroughly exercised themselves unto godliness, and now they are bring- 
 ing forth fruit unto God. 
 
 Finally, all such and such only shall die the death of the righteous. 
 If any of you have never known what this is by seeing a righteous man 
 die, I would to God you might have witnessed the death-bed scenes and 
 triumphs of brother Marks. There was a glorious illustration of the 
 blessedness of dying the death of the righteous. 
 
 I shall now conclude with some notices of the life, history and death 
 of our departed brother. One general remark at the outset will have 
 continual illustration as we proceed ; — he seemed to possess the charac- 
 teristics of fulfilling this great command — " Exercise thyself unto god- 
 liness." Converted from sin at the age of ten years, he began to preach 
 at the early age of fifteen, since which time his labors have been inces- 
 sant. x\t the age of twenty-six, he published a Narrative of himself, at 
 the instance of his friends, made up chiefly from his own diary. From 
 this I shall take the liberty to make some extracts. It appears from 
 this that his labors in the denomination of Free-will Baptists, to which 
 he belonged, were almost unbounded. Probably no man living has done 
 more for that order than he. When his labors commenced, twenty-five 
 years ago, they were few — their preachers mostly illiterate, though dis- 
 tinguished for their piety and zeal. They had no religious paper of 
 their own, no Book Concern, no literary institutions. This accounts 
 for the course brother Marks pursued with regard to his early education. 
 He travelled and preached over the whole country from the Ohio river 
 to the remote parts of New England — at the cost of immense and self- 
 sacrificing labor, he, at length, with others, got up a Book Concern. 
 
 He came here and located himself and family three years ago, mainly 
 for the sake of improving his own education. Having commenced his 
 
DAVID MARKS. 460 
 
 labors in preaching very young and with little education, he felt the 
 need of it greatly, and seized the earliest opportunity to turn aside from 
 his career of incessant preaching for this purpose. He had also collat- 
 eral reasons. His health was already impaired, and he greatly needed 
 rest. Moreover his acquaintance in this great western valley had shown 
 him its immense importance in view of the future progress of Christ's 
 kingdom. He saw that a great struggle of truth with error must take 
 place on this field, and it would seem that his heart was set upon im- 
 proving his education, that he might bear an active and vigorous part in 
 its achievement. From some circumstances, I have supposed that his 
 Baptist brethren have not fully understood his reasons for coming here. 
 They may have feared that it was some ambitious scheme ; but nothing 
 can be farther from the truth. He came here to prepare himself for a 
 great work in this great western battle-field of Zion. 
 
 His diary shows that he was at one time greatly exercised on the sub- 
 ject of sanctification. I have often observed that God seems to move on 
 many minds independently of each other, at the same time. So it often 
 happens when a great series of revivals is about to ensue ; you will find 
 Christians moved in various parts of the country simultaneously, and so 
 far as we can see without any concert or communication with each oth- 
 er. So the Lord led brother Marks to inquire on this subject, at the same 
 time that other minds in other Christian denominations were also inquir-^ 
 ing, yet without concert with each other. 
 
 In his diary for February 20, 1828, he writes : — 
 
 " On the way to Middlesex my mind was impressed with the neces- 
 sity of salvation from all sin. The commandment of the Lord Jesus, 
 Matt. 5:48, ' Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heav- 
 en is perfect ,^ c^xae with power into my soul. And, remembering the 
 declaration of the Apostle, 1 John 5:3, ' His commandments are not 
 grievous,^ my unbelief fled away, and faith said, ' God's ways are 
 equal, and his requirements just.' 'Whosoever therefore shall break 
 one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be 
 called the least in the kingdom of heaven.' Matt. 5:19. Then the fol- 
 lowing queries arose ; ' If he shall be least, who practices and teaches 
 contrary to the least of Christ's commandments, what will be the fate of 
 him who not only violates, but teaches contrary to the greatest com- 
 mandment ? And what commandment is greater than this, to be perfect 
 even as our Father in heaven is perfect 1 How then dare I, a vessel of 
 the Lord's sanctuary, that ought to be holy in body and in spirit, live in 
 sin 1 — and, like satan, bring Scripture to justify my iniquity, or screen 
 my guilty conscience ? When I preach to sinners that they should ' re- 
 pent,' do they not quote the words of Christ to justify themselves, 
 ' Without me, ye can do nothing?' ' And were I to preach to Chris- 
 tians that they should be ' perfect,' would they not say, ' There is not 
 a just man upon earth, that doeth good and sinneth not?' After re- 
 flecting on the above queries, the conviction settled into my soul, as if 
 from heaven, that these Scriptures are as unjustly misapplied as that 
 quoted by the tempter, Matt. 4:6, ' Cast thyself down : for it is writ- 
 ten. He shall give his angels charge concerning thee,' &c. Now it is 
 certain that satan did act himself in reciting this text, that he seemed to 
 have holy Scripture directly to the point that he wished to gain. So, alas ! 
 40 
 
|7(^ MEMOIRS OF 
 
 it is a fact, and my blood chills at the reflection, that sinners, and even 
 saints, often quote Scripture as satan did, and make an application equally 
 erroneous, to justify their living in sin. ' And thou, my soul, be hum- 
 bled exceedingly before God ; for, alas ! thou also, since Heaven forgave 
 thee all, hast recited and applied Scripture to justify thyself; as though 
 those who are redeemed from sin could not help living in sin ! Hast 
 thou found that the death of Christ was not sufficient to enable his chil- 
 dren to become like Nathaniel, ' A71 Israelite indeed, in whom is no 
 guileV O be thou abased exceedingly, for thou hast applied the word 
 of God like unto satan, to content thyself without entire victory over 
 sin. How vain was thy thought, that death, the offspring of sin, should 
 in any way save thee, or fit thee for heaven. If the blood of Jesus have 
 not the cleansing power to perfect thee for glory, how shall death fit 
 thee for the better world ?" From these reflections, I sunk into noth- 
 ing before God, and turning aside into a wood, I fell on my face and 
 called on the Lord ; and, blessed be his name, I felt resolved in his 
 strength to strive to live without sin, and ' follow the Lamb whitherso- 
 ever he goeth.' '* 
 
 Those of you who were acquainted with the deceased, know that he 
 entered most heartily into all the great Reforms of the age as soon as 
 their respective subjects came fully before his mind. In respect to those 
 reforms, he has no doubt done much for his denomination. It is an in- 
 teresting fact, that they are now remarkably harmonious on all these 
 points, more so than almost any other denomination in the land. 
 
 This denomination has enjoyed a rapid growth and a very unusual de- 
 gree of prosperity, no inconsiderable share of which it is believed those 
 who best know will ascribe to his influence and labors. It has indeed 
 had many other able and faithful ministers, yet his labors have' been 
 immense, and in the main very successful. The body of Free-will Bap- 
 tists, which numbered about ten thousand when he entered the ministry, 
 is now said to number sixty thousand, and to have not far from one 
 thousand ministers in its connexion. 
 
 He was a man of great uprightness of character, as all know who 
 have had any business with him. He was most scrupulously accurate 
 in all his dealings, careful to pay every cent which was righteously due, 
 and expecting a similarly equitable course from those with whom he 
 dealt. Yet obviously the spring of this was not in his case avarice, but 
 genuine uprightness of character. 
 
 As another instance, I will mention that he called on me once this 
 fall , and wanted me to attend to a little matter between him and another 
 individual. But he would not tell me any part of the story lest he 
 should prejudice my ttiind. He wished me to hear both sides at once, 
 and hear his own statement in presence of the other party concerned. 
 
 I have already alluded to the fact that for many years he counted 
 sleep a burden, and grudged even the moments which he must lose 
 from his Master's work in this repose of nature. When I first became 
 acquainted with his state, I said to him — You must sleep. It is your 
 duty to your God and to your generation. You are almost worn out, 
 but you are too young to close up your labors yet. Sleep enough may 
 restore your system, and you may yet live to do much more for your 
 Master. I faced hiiii down in it, and was earnest and decided with 
 
DAVID MARKS. 471 
 
 Ihim. I said, it is impossible for you to live so, and what a pity that you 
 should die an old man while yet young. He received it kindly, and 
 tried to sleep a great deal more ; but, as sometimes happens, tried so 
 hard that he could not sleep. It was in his heart to do all known duty. 
 The spirit was willing — the flesh weak. The fact was, his whole sys- 
 tem was upon the strain. His mind and whole nervous system were in 
 a state of the utmost tension. The ardor of his spirit, glowing through 
 his kindling eye, and every thing about him, spoke a soul in most sol- 
 fcmn earnest. His soul indeed was grown too great and too mighty for 
 his poor broken body. I admired and revered his most devout zeal for 
 Ood and souls, and seldom, if ever, have I been blessed with the ac- 
 quaintance of one whose presence and spirit were at all times so re- 
 freshing to my soul, as were brother Marks', and yet so loud a rebuke to 
 my comparative want of self-denying zeal during much of my ministerial 
 life. I always found myself benefited by his society. I feel that it 
 rvvould have been a great favor had my Heavenly Father suffered him to 
 abide at Oberlin as long as he anticipated. But brother Marks, though 
 young, comparatively, in years, being only forty, had lived long in the 
 victual results of his labors. He had performed more than the usual 
 ■work of a hundred years. It was impossible without a constant miracle, 
 that he should live under such a weight of exciting and exhausting la- 
 fbors. His mind, since I have known him, has been like a powerful 
 steam engine in a frail and broken vessel, crowded with terrible and self- 
 destructive speed through an ocean of stormy waves. This figure has 
 repeatedly presented itself to my mind, when I have seen or thought of 
 fhim. I have thought brother Marks will soon go to pieces, unless he 
 abates his speed. It was plain as noon-day, that his ardent soul was 
 •tearing its frail tenement, all in pieces. But rest was out of the ques- 
 tion with him. As I said, when I faced him down, I insisted that he 
 should rest ; but so great and irrepressible was the ardor of his soul, 
 'that the effort he made to keep still, cost him more than to let his zeal 
 for God have all the vent that his frail body could from day to day sus- 
 tain. I have regarded myself as peculiarly blessed in that providence 
 which made me more particularly acquainted with brother Marks, than 
 many of our brethren here, who, since his death, have expressed their 
 grief that they had not sought more intimacy with him. Many here can 
 attest the truth of my testimony in regard to what he was, and many 
 more might have done so, but for the fact, that we are all so pressed 
 with labor, and brother Marks was so truly a modest and unobtrusive 
 man, that those who knew him well, must have been providentially 
 brought into contact with him. This was my lot, and I can truly say, 
 that to me his memory is most sacred and beloved. All my acquain- 
 tance with him was sweet and hallowed. He was at all times the 
 Christian, and he is one of the few men with whom I have been at all 
 intimate, of whom I can say, that 1 never saw any thing in his spirit and 
 temper, and never heard anything from his lips, or saw any thing in his 
 life to deplore. " The memory of the righteous is blessed." I love to 
 think of him, for it does me good. It makes me feel my littleness. His 
 countenance, all radiant with love, seems even now to smile and take on 
 that affectionate and most earnest look, with which he used to meet and 
 greet me. But my brother is gone ! My heart is sadly joyful when I 
 
472 MEMOIRS OIP 
 
 remember that his work on earth is done, his conflicts are over, and 
 especially that his dying strife has ceased. Death has no more to do 
 with him. He lives forever. Do not let us conceive of him as to be 
 carried and left in yonder grave-yard. O no, he is beyond the reach of 
 death and the grave. We may carry the frail tabernacle in which he 
 lived, as we might carry the clothes he wore, and leave them in the 
 grave. But brother Marks will not be there. No, there is no dark, 
 cold, damp grave to him, but, bathed in the sunlight of heaven, he walks 
 the golden streets, and gazes upon the ineffable and unsullied glories 
 that surround him forever. What a contrast ! A few days ago we 
 saw him dragging about, with a body crushed and broken, racked with 
 pain, and limbs swollen and heavy with dropsy, but with a soul all fresh 
 and energizing almost to a miracle in so poor a body. But now, could 
 we draw aside the veil, and behold him lost in wonder and admiration, 
 standing in the effulgence of heaven's glories, and surveying the unut- 
 terable wonders of his Savior, and of his palace with its myriads of 
 mansions for his saints, we should rejoice to leave him there, and have 
 no wish to bring him back again to earth. 
 
 It may have been supposed by his people at a distance from us, that 
 since he came here he has relinquished his preaching too much, and giv- 
 en himself up too much to study ; but in this, if such has been their 
 view, they are mistaken. He has by no means relinquished his labors 
 among the churches faster than he was compelled to by his waning 
 strength. His labors abroad a part of the time, have been very great, 
 particularly in assisting in getting into operation a high school at Ches- 
 ter, Geauga Co. Ohio. It seemed to be his meat and drink to labor in 
 the gospel. Few men can say with more truth than he, " The zeal of 
 thine house hath eaten me up." It had eaten up the very energies of 
 life from his system. 
 
 [ Professor Finney here read much of the memoranda of his 
 conversation during the last days of his life.] 
 
 Brother Marks said to me during his sickness, that he wanted the 
 ministers in his connexion to hold up sanctification, and to live it, 
 to live it forth in all their daily life. I long, said he, to go among 
 them, and urge upon them this great duty and responsibility, but if 
 I may not have strength to do it, I hope you will do it by your preach- 
 ing in my stead. 
 
 As I visited him every day, I continually observed that he seemed to 
 rejoice in every fresh symptom of approaching death. Especially was 
 this manifest when his stomach failed so that he could not receive and 
 digest food. This was a glorious signal that the time drew near when 
 he might go home. His wife at one time remarked to him — " You ap- 
 pear so little changed in your state of mind from what I have usually 
 seen you, that I cannot realize that you are so near your end." He re- 
 plied — Why should I appear changed before dying 1 Ever since you 
 have known me, I have lived in the near view of death, ready each day 
 to depart and be with Christ. 
 
 When he found that he could no more write his own name, his soul 
 seemed to be in ecstacy. Not one of his friends around him could re- 
 frain from tears, but his soul seemed to be radiant with the glories of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 473 
 
 heaven. He felt the Christian's hope to be the most substantial reality 
 that can be known on earth. O, it has been a luxury for me and many 
 other friends to see him day after day triumphing over death, and show- 
 ing how easy a man may die, if he has only lived right. Then he has 
 nothing to do but to wait in patient hope till the hour of release shall 
 come. So died our departed brother. " Mark the perfect man and be- 
 hold the upright : for the end of that man is peace." 
 
 Professor Finney, at the close of his sermon, said, — 
 
 *' I wish to commend sister Marks to your sympathies. Few women 
 
 ever met with such a loss, for few women ever had such a husband to 
 
 lose." 
 
 The coffin was opened beneath the pulpit, and while the congre- 
 gation was passing around to take the last look of his countenance, 
 joyful even in death, it was said that Professor Finney gazed al- 
 most constantly upon it, and remarked to those standing near him : 
 " Did you ever see such a corpse? "What a countenance ! How 
 lovely ! How smiling ! How easy it is to die right, if we live 
 right." The coffin was closed, and his body was then borne to ifes 
 last quiet resting place. 
 
 Nothing could exceed the kindness and attention of the people of 
 Oberlin during his last illness. It seemed as if every individual in 
 the village, from the members of the college faculty to the poor 
 colored man, delighted to show him kindness. For about four weeks 
 previous to his death, he had four men as watchers by night and 
 two by day, besides considerable female assistance. A committee 
 was appointed to procure these attendants, so as to have no failure, 
 and to relieve his family from care on this point. Professor Fin- 
 ney called almost invariably twice, and sometimes three times, a 
 day. Mr. Marks was greatly affected by this kindness, and in the 
 full gushings of his heart, would say, " O how much more than a 
 cup of cold water is this." The notice of his death, accompanied 
 by the funeral sermon and extracts from the memoranda of his last 
 conversations, was first thus announced in the Oberlin Evangelist, 
 in an article prefatory to the sermon : 
 
 *' Elder David Marks, whose recent death among us gave occasion to 
 the following sermon, had greatly endeared himself to us by his unas- 
 suming and great piety — by his beautiful simplicity of character, and by 
 his intense industry and devotion in his Master's cause. His last days 
 were a most glorious triumph of Christian faith." 
 
 Subsequently, his death was announced in the Morning Star, 
 which was clad in mourning. The article in the Star contained the 
 following : 
 
 " Brother Marks had long occupied a prominent position in our de- 
 nomination, and exerted an extensive and salutary influence, and in his 
 death we have suffered a great loss. He had been one of the assistant 
 editors of the Star for nearly twelve years, and his contributions have 
 40* 
 
474 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 added much to its usefulness and interest. Who will fill the vacancy 
 which his removal has left in our Zion? ' Help, Lord ; for the godly 
 naan ceaseth ; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.' " 
 
 The funeral sermon, memoranda of his conversation, his farewell 
 address to his brethren, and his last address in Oberlin chapel, 
 were also published in the same number of the Star, and were read 
 with the greatest avidity. The addresses were as follows : 
 
 ELDER DAVID MARKS' 
 
 Farewell Address to the Free-will Baptists and the world, written 
 from his mouth in short hand, Oherlin, Ohio, Nov, Qth. 
 
 BY CHARLES PENFIELD, STEIWJCR APHER. 
 
 Believing my work to be about done on earth, and being about 
 ready to depart and be with Christ, I desire to say a few words to 
 my brethren, old friends, and the world, and being unable to write, 
 I have sent for a stenographer to report from my mouth. 
 
 In times past I have looked upon death with a great natural 
 dread ; and although I then knew that I had not need of dying 
 grace, I could not understand how I should be able to meet it with 
 composure ; but, as I approach the dark valley. Glory to God ! I 
 can say with the Psalmist, " Though I walk through the valley and 
 shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me." The 
 hope of the Christian, instead of being deceptive or failing as the 
 trpng hour approaches, I find becomes stronger and stronger, like 
 an anchor to the soul sure and steadfast ; and the evidences of 
 the truth of the Christian religion, instead of growing dim, bright- 
 en as the curtain begins to drop. Unlike the hope of the infidel 
 that deserts him, and is like a spider's web in the giving up of the 
 ghost, every circumstance, as this world recedes and the next heaves 
 in view, serves but to confirm the blessed truth, that man was made 
 to be religious. It is with the sweetest delight now when I expect 
 to preach no more that I review the evidences of the Clu-istian relig- 
 ion, and to me it seems strange, how a sane mind can examine even 
 the external evidences of Christianity, and not yield assent to their 
 truth ; and I would seriously put the question to the infidel philos- 
 opher, how it was possible for sixty and six such books as compose 
 the Bible to have been written in different ages and by something 
 like forty different authors of every variety of rank, from the phi- 
 losopher to the shepherd, from the man of wealth to the peasant, 
 from the king on his throne to individuals in the humblest sphere 
 of life, with no possible combination with each other, or concert at 
 deception, and yet the material facts in these books being such as 
 they are, be a forgery or untrue ? For example, who can believe 
 that it was possible for any impostor to make the whole nation of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 475 
 
 J!srael believe, without the exception of an individual, that the re- 
 volting and mysterious rite of circumcision was divinely insti- 
 tuted, unless the remarkable facts connected with the origin of that 
 rite were absolutely undeniable ? What sane mind, free from the 
 bias of prejudice, can seriously believe that a whole nation was 
 persuaded without a dissenting voice to believe that they passed 
 through the Red Sea miraculously, and to yield obedience to a bur- 
 densome system of taxation and religion, had not this miracle been 
 most clearly undeniable ? Nor are the facts recorded in the New 
 Testament less conclusive in their authority as to its divine authen- 
 ticity. For example, such was the inimical feeling of the whole 
 nation of the Jews against Jesus Christ, so jealous were they of 
 the introduction of any new religion in circumstances at all plausi- 
 ble for its success, that no pains could have been spared to expose 
 every possible imposture. The Christian church at its very com- 
 mencement was based on the testimony of the evangelists, and of 
 course the great facts of their testimony were familiar to every 
 professed Christian, and equally open to the investigation of their 
 enemies, both Jews and Pagans. How, then, is it possible, that it 
 could then have been published that five thousand were fed by 
 Christ miraculously in a wilderness place, where several tons of 
 provisions must have been used — and the imposture, if it was one, 
 not have been detected ? Again, if the facts related in the case of 
 Lazarus being raised from the dead were not true, how is it possible 
 that there should not have been some one in the two millions of the 
 nation that assembled at the yearly feast, to disprove the history in 
 the case, and thus arrest the preaching of Christianity ? Again, 
 if the vail of the temple was not rent, and darkness did not cover 
 the face of the whole earth from twelve to three in the afternoon, 
 how is it possible that the Christian church should make myriads 
 of converts, including many of the most philosophic minds, in the 
 very vicinity where every person must have known that these prin- 
 cipal facts on which Christianity was based were absolutely false ? 
 Again, what possible motive could the twelve apostles have had to 
 sacrifice every worldly prospect, and every possible selfish aggran- 
 dizement, to testify that they had seen Jesus Christ raised from the 
 dead ; and had witnessed the prints of the nails in his hands and in 
 his feet ? What could possibly have induced them in defence of 
 this testimony to suffer the loss of all things and crucifixion at 
 last, unless they had known these facts to be true, and by them have 
 been supported in the full assurance of eternal life ? 
 
 Nor are the internal evidences of the divinity of the Christian's 
 hope less conclusive. An intimate acquaintance with man shows 
 clearly that such is the structure of his mind, that no earthly or 
 scientific acquirements can satisfy it or fill its capacities. Though 
 
■176 MEMOmS OF 
 
 it grasp wealth, learning, power, beyond all limits, it is still like 
 the troubled sea that cannot rest, and the soul instinctively inquires, 
 " Who will show us any good ?" But Christianity is as really 
 adapted to the wants of man's intellect, to satisfy his mental capac- 
 ities, as natural food and drink are adapted to the natural necessi- 
 ties of the body. But to the soul that does not know God by ex- 
 perience, the nature and strength of the internal evidences of 
 Christianity are unknown. The natural man receiveth not the 
 things of the Spirit of God, neither can he know them, because 
 they are spiritually discerned." And here is the glory and beauty 
 of Christianity. It does not require the multitude of its disciples 
 to become scholars and philosophers, in order to understand and 
 appreciate the weight of its evidences. The little child, the illiter- 
 ate, aged peasant that never learned to read, can have the holy 
 anointing that teaches them all things—how to live and how to die, 
 with far more consistency, composure and joy, than is obtained by 
 the wise men of this world. 
 
 Now, when the strength of my nervous system is exhausted, and 
 by physicians and friends, I am admonished not to study or think 
 laboriously on any subject, O how sweet it is to feel the divine wit- 
 ness within my soul that God dwells within me, and to feel that 
 there is not a dimming veil between me and heaven. As I ap- 
 proach the dark valley, my hope grows sweeter and sweeter, my 
 confidence still more firm, and there is a divine reality that is the 
 farthest possible removed from the effect of imagination, excitement, 
 or fanaticism. It scarcely seems to me like a mere hope. There 
 is an assurance— -a philosophical, a rational, a soul-felt, a divine as- 
 surance, that I am but about to exchange the numerous and dearly 
 beloved friends with whom I have formed an acquaintance within 
 twenty-five years, for other friends in a happier clime, and that 
 from these loved ones here, I shall be separated but for a little 
 while, only to renew the union in circumstances where our joy will 
 never be damped. When I commenced my ministry, I had a 
 constitution of the strongest and firmest kind. Often have I rode 
 thirty or forty miles in the sleet rains of winter, without an over- 
 coat, without a dry thread upon me, and without taking a morsel 
 of food, and felt not the slightest inconvenience. As I commenced 
 preaching at the age of fifteen, the novelty of my boyhood often 
 attracted large assemblies, which no house in their vicinity could 
 accommodate ; consequently, from the age of fifteen to twenty-one, 
 while my lungs were growing, I was constantly accustomed to 
 speaking in the open air in the wind and sometimes in the rain, so 
 that my lungs obtained a firmness probably exceeeding that of 
 most men that have ever lived. Consequently, as my voice was 
 strong and rarely ever was fatigued by use, the demand for its use 
 
DAVID MARKS. 477 
 
 was very great ; and oft-times I spoke from three to seven hours a 
 day for weeks and months in succession. This circumstance, (the 
 unnatural developement or strength of my lungs,) has probably 
 been the cause of my overlooking the fact that my nervous system 
 had not equal strength. Thus I have used my voice ahnost inces- 
 santly, until the nervous system has become wrecked, the vital en- 
 ergies expended, and at the age of forty, I have the infirmities of 
 one of ninety. 
 
 During the first ten years of my labors in the ministry, my prin- 
 ciples did not allow me to preach on contracts, or receive any thing 
 that could bear any semblance to a salary, and rarely ever did I re- 
 ceive a public collection. In this time, my travels were extended from 
 the Ohio river to the Penobscot, amounting to 42,353 miles, and 
 during the same time I attended 3489 meetings, and most of these 
 labors were in new sections of the country and among destitute 
 churches. I supported myself mainly by extra labor and exertion, 
 such as teaching school, and publishing and selling books. 
 
 One result of the acquaintance thus formed with my beloved 
 connexion in these Jabors, was, the conviction that unless some 
 powerful instrumentalities should be introduced to perpetuate the 
 ardent piety and intelligence of the early ministers and fathers of 
 our denomination, a horrible backsliding would ensue, and the salt 
 would loose its savor. The little value that the fathers of the de- 
 nomination had attached to mere human learning, or to an unsane- 
 tijied education, had been misunderstood by many of our members, 
 and emboldened them to despise all human learning. Yet I ob- 
 served that often their children would read and study and keep 
 pace with the intelligence of the age, consequently, their parents, 
 with their views of learning, ceased to exert much rehgious influ- 
 ence over the rising generation. A large number of our young 
 people were accustomed to a course of reading and educational in- 
 fluences, which, in my judgment, only tended on many points to 
 turn them away from important truths. Indeed, I was pained to 
 observe, that very considerable numbers of them were inclined to 
 be sceptical, if not absolute infidels. These facts weighed like a 
 mountain's weight on my soul, and I felt that to perpetuate the ex- 
 cellent influences commenced by Randall and his successors, some- 
 thing must be done. At length, I became satisfied that no one 
 measure could be introduced to our denomination to remedy the 
 evil with more prospect of success than the establishment of a 
 Book Concern, as the property of the denomination, to be under 
 the control of its best men. Thus might the press speak out evan- 
 gelical truth with a voice long, loud, and free, unshackled by per- 
 sonal interest, and unawed by popular favor or frown, and God so 
 baptized my soul into the spirit of the freedom of an evangelical 
 
478 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 press, that I felt as though, if it were necessary, I would lay down 
 even my life to establish such a press. Consequently, under the 
 appointment of our General Conference, I consented to take the 
 responsibility of General Agent for four years, in which time I be- 
 came responsible for expenses and debts contracted in raising the 
 Establishment to the amount of twenty thousand dollars. 
 
 Several thousand dollars of these debts were in the form of 
 bank notes in the Boston banks, which became due during the fear- 
 ful times which followed the general bank suspension. The estab- 
 lishment being in its infancy, and the borrowing of adequate sums 
 being impossible, but two alternatives were presented — a failure, 
 the dashing of the whole establishment, the bankruptcy of myself 
 and several undersigners — or a desperate personal effort on my 
 part to raise the funds by the sale of books. In these circumstan- 
 ces, with the most intense interest, I sat down with my dear com- 
 panion to count the cost. If I exerted my strength day and night 
 to the utmost of my power with her aid, in the course of a few 
 years we might possibly succeed in meeting the necessary payments. 
 But the severity of the New England winter^ especially in Ver- 
 mont, New Hampshire, and Maine, might render the filling of suc- 
 cessive appointments, (made in the closest connection without ref- 
 erence to travelling or weather,) to supply our churches with books, 
 receiving cash in hand — a most fearful task ! The result of these 
 appointments was the collection of thousands of dollars which could 
 not have been raised otherwise. But sometimes I was compelled 
 to travel nearly whole nights in the severest weather, and often to 
 allow myself but two or three hours sleep in twenty-four, for days 
 in succession, and the result was four severe fits of sickness, which 
 broke down my constitution and I have not seen a well day since. 
 The vital principle has seemed to be disappearing in equal ratio, 
 for the ten years that have since elapsed. 
 
 In speaking of these things, I am obliged to say like Paul, " I 
 speak as a fool.'* My object, however, is to bear testimony that 
 the satisfaction I have enjoyed since I have been laid aside, and 
 still enjoy in the uncompromising testimony of that Book Estab- 
 lishment against intemperance, licentiousness, and slavery, and in 
 favor of all the benevolent institutions which God in his providence 
 has appointed to be the nurseries of the church, infinitely exceeds 
 the pleasure I could derive from the firmest health and the pros- 
 pect of yet preaching many years. And though I am now poor, 
 and living on the kindness of friends, and my feeble wife, after 
 sacrificing all selfish interests, and bending all her energies for 
 these sixteen years to aid me in the services of the ministry, is 
 about to be left destitute, still there is a sweetness of hope, and sat- 
 isfaction in reviewing the past, which I am confident, that no mi- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 470 
 
 ser nor person that has laid up money for himself in this world, can 
 enjoy in view of approaching death. And, although we have ex- 
 perienced some inconveniences from poverty, yet it has been noth- 
 ing compared to the poverty endured by prophets, apostles, and Je- 
 sus Christ. God has usually judged it best to give the things of 
 this life to his children with a sparing hand. Nor is there blame 
 to be attached to my brethren for our wants not having been more 
 fully supplied, since had we judged it best to inform our friends of 
 the extent of our necessities, they would undoubtedly have reliev- 
 ed us. 
 
 There is, I am confident, a very serious danger attending our 
 Book Establishment, against which I wish to raise my dying, warn- 
 ing voice. It is an inclination on the part of brethren and minis- 
 ters to feel that the Book Establishment is well off and safe. I 
 have watched this danger for years, and am convinced that it is 
 serious and not easy to be removed. The disposition to delay pay- 
 ments for the Star, to take books on commission, and use the mon- 
 ey in case of exigency, is swelling the debts of the Establishment 
 to an alarming extent, and unless brethren cease to take the leni- 
 ty they have, unless the agents generally are more prompt and 
 thorough in their collections, I consider the failure of the Estab- 
 lishment as almost certain. But, my dear brethren, I beseech you 
 to do all you can to avert such a calamity. 
 
 As to my sentiments, they have undergone no material change. 
 I die a Free-will Baptist, but I trust free from sectarianism. The 
 freedom of the human will, a distinctive sentiment of our con- 
 nexion, I am more than ever convinced is the true doctrine of sound 
 philosophy and of the Bible. Nor is a little importance to be at- 
 tached to this distinctive sentiment. It lies at the foundation not 
 only of all evangelical Christianity, but is the only sure basis of re- 
 ligion itself. If God is a self-determining being, and made man 
 in his own image, man is a self-determining being, and, as such, is 
 responsible, and the subject of moral government. 
 
 Another distinctive sentiment of our denomination, which is 
 doubly dear to my hearty as I am about to depart to the spirit-land, 
 is, that genuine evangelical faith in Christ is the only bond of 
 Christian fellowship — in other words, that Christians of whatever 
 sect are one, and that we cannot carry out the principles of our re- 
 ligion, as Free-will Baptists, without seeking to promote the inter- 
 ests of all evangelical churches. 
 
 As to another distinctive sentiment of Free-will Baptists, bap- 
 tism, or the immersion of believers, I think it duty to say, that I 
 fear that Baptists, as well as Pedo-Baptists, have overlooked or 
 lost sight of the true meaning of baptism. As in case of pouring 
 or sprinkling, the true idea designed by the Holy Ghost is lost sight 
 
480 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 of, SO those Baptists that deny the doctrine of entire sanctification 
 and salvation from all sin, have equally lost the meaning of the 
 rite. For, as in the primitive baptism there was a death and a 
 resurrection, it is evident to me that by the rite God designed the 
 convert to say to the world, that he is dead to all his former sel- 
 fishness, and alive to every obligation of Christianity. Hence it 
 seems to me that the rite of baptism, as practiced by Baptists or 
 Pedo-Baptists, is of little use, unless the original design signified 
 alone by the manner (which was an immersion and emersion) is 
 kept in view. Hence the original rite, in its manner, should be 
 meekly contended for and practiced with sole reference to the bless- 
 ed and holy doctrine of death to all selfishness and life to all right- 
 eousness. 
 
 Another distinctive sentiment of Free-will Baptists, contended 
 earnestly for by our fathers, is, that all religion without the bap- 
 tism of the Spirit, the holy anointing, is vain. From this senti- 
 ment, I feel there has been a practical and horrible backsliding. 
 As a tree soon becomes old and dies, there seems to be a fearful 
 propensity in all organizations to lose the innocence and purity of 
 their infancy. O my brethren, I beseech you carefully and pray- 
 erfully to avoid the spirit of backsliding in this respect. Some of 
 our good aged men have had serious fears that the introduction of 
 seminaries to the patronage of our denomination, would lead to a 
 departure from dependence on the influences of the Spirit ; and in- 
 cline our ministers and members to trust in the wisdom of this 
 world. This fear should not be treated with contempt ; but, on 
 the other hand, the fact must not be overlooked that men will be 
 educated, that the sciences will be studied, and that they will exert 
 a vast influence ; and the only question to be settled by intelligent 
 Christians is, shall the schools be under a selfish influence, or a di- 
 vine influence ? Shall the truths of science be taught for God, and 
 subservient to a Holy Ghost religion, and an humble Christianity, 
 or shall they be taught by selfish men in such a manner as to de- 
 velope and cultivate all the selfishness of fallen nature ? In other 
 words, shall the truths of science be made subservient to make the 
 scholar like God, the author of all truth, or like the devil, who is a 
 prodigy of intellect, without moral principle ? In my opinion, were 
 Scripture views held by the church universally, and carried out 
 with relation to the subject of education, the whole world would be 
 converted in less than ten years. Literary aristocracy would be 
 unknown, academies and colleges would be fields of perpetual revi- 
 vals, and from these purified fountains a wave of salvation would 
 sweep away every strong-hold of the devil, and fill the whole earth 
 with righteousness. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 481 
 
 For twenty years past, I have kept debt and credit as to my 
 time, and accustomed myself to such diligence that rest has for 
 years been a burden to me, except when exhausted nature has cried 
 out for it. In thus closely taxing myself, I have lived out life while 
 yet in my prime. Yet even from this I have learned one blessed 
 truth, namely, that the soul when fully trained for the great work 
 of the spirit-land, where sleep will not be needed, will have a love 
 for labor that language can scarcely describe. Since I have been 
 confined by sickness, my thoughts have glanced like lightning over 
 the immense fields for Christian labor, and I have viewed with 
 ecstacy the facilities which God has introduced to concentrate and 
 make effective the labors of the church. Why did God confound 
 human language at Babel, and by more than one hundred dialects 
 split the human family asunder? Why did he, by seas and moun- 
 tains, lakes and rivers, cut up the whole face of the earth by barri- 
 ers to separate the 'human family ? Surely, because he saw the 
 selfishness of man would only use language and unbroken inter- 
 course to form monopolies, which would effect their own ruin. 
 Why for more than 4000 years was the gift of tongues withholden 
 from the church ? Why for 5500 years was the use of the compass 
 and the art of printing withholden from the world, and America, 
 the most fruitful soil on the globe, unknown to the world ? Why 
 was the application of steam, as now used in steam-boats, and on 
 rail-roads, and in numerous other ways, kept back for 5800 years ? 
 Surely, because God saw that the principles of his kingdom had not 
 become sufficiently established to make these inventions and discov- 
 eries turn on the whole to the production of a greater amount of 
 good than of evil. But as soon as he saw principle, activity, and 
 self-denial enough in the church, to make these discoveries on the 
 whole subservient to his kingdom, in his providence they were in- 
 troduced, and now the battle is coming between the two kingdoms. 
 The time for the shaking of the heavens and earth has come. The 
 whitening fields invite the attention of every lover of man, and ev- 
 ery angel looks on with the deepest interest. The nurseries of the 
 church are to be cultivated, such as Sabbath schools, Bible classes, 
 Temperance, Mission, Moral Reform, the Tract, Bible, and Anti- 
 slavery societies ; and while idolatry trembles on its throne, and 
 the merchant-men of Babylon stand aghast, a mighty host of sanc- 
 tified intellects are to go forth into all parts of the field, and labor 
 until righteousness covers the whole earth. In the accomplish- 
 ment of this work, no Christian has a right to feel little responsi- 
 bility. Every man, woman, and child, that indulges hope of heav- 
 en, is under the most solemn obligation to make the removal of 
 every curse that sin has entailed on the world, and the extension 
 of universal righteousness, the main, yes, the whole business of 
 41 
 
482 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 their lives. Every Christian should form the habit of having no 
 work, wish, or will, except for God. Habits, as to food, drink, 
 dress, and amusements, should only be formed, with express refer- 
 ence to glorifying God. The education of children, the purchase 
 of furniture, the size and expense of buildings, the arrangement of 
 grounds and yards, the size of farms, all the investments of proper- 
 ty, should be made without any reference to one's individual choice, 
 taste, or inclination, except so far as the judgment directs that the 
 will of God requires conformity to this. In other words, the Chris- 
 tian has no right to live to himself. The one and soul-absorbing 
 object of his whole life should be to know in what manner he can 
 best glorify God, by removing the greatest amount of evil from the 
 earth, and introducing the greatest possible amount of righteousness 
 in its place. 
 
 And, finally, my brethren, in conclusion, I entreat you, in the 
 name of our Lord Jesus Christ, in view of the glory that is to be 
 revealed at his appearing, to concentrate all the energies of your 
 being, to introduce, spread, and perpetuate pure primitive Chris- 
 tianity. 
 
 My dear brethren in the ministry, remember that youi* calling 
 is not only the most important, but the most honorable. To be 
 embassadors for the great God, and to negotiate for immortal in- 
 terests, is truly the highest work to which mortals can aspire. Let 
 no difficulties, poverty, or reproaches, dishearten you ; but save all 
 the souls you can. Let your testimony be a pure one, unawed by 
 any and every selfish combination that can arise against you, and 
 a rich reward will lie before you. 
 
 Remember the poor, down-trodden, suffering slave, to whom the 
 lamp of life is denied — 'that lamp which so gloriously gilds my 
 pathway to the tomb. Bear an uncompromising testimony against 
 that horrid system that chattelizes the image of God. O my 
 brethren, " Remember those that are in bonds as bound with them." 
 What a command is this ! Will you obey it ? 
 
 My testimony against secret societies, such as Masonry, Odd 
 Fellowship, Rechabites, &c., you have already had; but, dear 
 brethren, I cannot forbear repeating, in this my dying hour, " Be- 
 ware of secret societies.'* Let not your honor be united to them. 
 Remember that to you, in a great measure, is committed the puri- 
 ty of our churches. Ministers of Jesus Christ have nothing to do 
 with such societies, except to expose their hollow pretensions, and 
 guard the sheep from their devouring jaws. 
 
 To those who have ministered to my necessities, and of whose 
 hospitality I have been partaker within the twenty-five years past, 
 I give thanks, hoping you will find mercy in the day of the Lord 
 Jesus. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 433 
 
 * And finally, brethren, Farewell ! be perfect, be of good com- 
 fort, be of one mind, live in peace, and the God of love and peace 
 shall be with you/ The whole family of God will soon be gather- 
 ed together. There I trust we shall meet, complete in Christ, 
 where separations will be unknown, and where our joy will be full. 
 
 To the unbeliever, the Christless sinner, without God and with- 
 out hope in the world, I wish to say — A fearful experience is be- 
 fore you. To you it will be a doleful day when every earthly tie 
 is broken, and every earthly hope has vanished, and you look across 
 the dark valley without God and without hope. O, let me entreat 
 you, while in health, to haste to Jesus Christ for refuge, and lay up 
 a treasure in heaven. David Marks. 
 
 ELDER DAVID MARKS' 
 
 Address in Oherlin Chapel, Thursday, Novemher 13. 
 
 REPORTED BY PROF. COWLES, EDITOR OF OBERLIN EVANGELIST. 
 
 " Professor Finney announced to the assembly that it was uncer- 
 tain whether brother Marks would survive his effort to address 
 them, that he had been apprised of this, but notwithstanding was 
 anxious to speak to them. He said Dr. Dascomb, [Professor of 
 Physiology in Oberlin Collegiate Institute,] had just examined, and 
 could find no pulse in one wrist, and only a little tremulous motion 
 in the other. If he should die in the attempt, he wished the con- 
 gregation to be calm, and not leave their seats. His friends around 
 him would take care of him. 
 
 Brother Marks said, in a brief introductory address, substan- 
 tially as follows : 
 
 * My dear friends, I feel to thank God that I have the prospect 
 of addressing you once more, and for the last time. This has been 
 the desire of my heart. The lamp of life has for some time been 
 flickering in its socket ; and in the opinion of friends, I have but 
 a few hours to live. I think I should have gone home to my Heav- 
 enly Father last night, if He had not wished me to bear testimony 
 for Him once more on the shores of time. I bless his name that I 
 am spared and strengthened to render this last public testimony. I 
 suppose my coffin is being made, and my grave-clothes are in a state 
 of preparation. I wish the choir to sing a hymn that has been very 
 pleasant to me for many years— a working hymn. [1000 Hymn, 
 Christian Melody.] 
 
 ' Why sleep we, my brethren, come let us arlae,' &e. 
 
 After singing, brother Marks prayed, and then addressed the au- 
 dience as follows : 
 
 ' My extreme weakness, and the distress of suffocation in conse- 
 quence of the dropsical difficulty in my chest, and which is proba- 
 
484 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 bly drowning my heart, has not allowed me to spend a moment in 
 preparation for this meeting. Indeed, it has been extremely doubt- 
 ful whether I should be able to meet you at all, so that I have not 
 had much anxiety about preparation. Hence my remarks must be 
 made 'offhand.* 
 
 The first and leading thought on which I wish to dwell, is this, 
 that God has not designed this place, and this state of existence, as 
 our final home. I have neither time nor strength to enter into the 
 evidence now. I can only throw out the idea for your reflection. 
 As the prophet said, ' Arise and depart, for this is not your rest, 
 because it is polluted ; it shall destroy you even with a sore de- 
 struction.* Micah 2:10. God has designedly fixed in our consti- 
 tution and state, certain counteracting influences to wean us from 
 the love of life. When we see our friends in the agonies of dis- 
 solving nature, when we see the pallid countenance, the shaking 
 frame, the quivering pulse, the gasping breath, the glassy eye, we 
 are admonished of our own mortality ; we see, as it were in a glass, 
 our future selves passing away from earth and earthly things. 
 Even the sorrows and trials of life admonish us that this is not our 
 rest. Now mark, if this is not our real home, how little interest 
 should we take in the things of this life ? Suppose you were on a 
 voyage to India to spend your life there, and should stop on some 
 island for a single hour, how little interest you would take in the 
 objects you might chance to see there, compared with the interest 
 you would feel in every thing that related to your destined home ? 
 Now, if we should live to the age of Methuselah, this would be 
 nothing compared to eternity. Place the two in contrast, and how 
 forcibly we must realize that eternity is every thing, and time in 
 duration is nothing. 
 
 And yet, on this little point of time, every thing in eternity is 
 made to hang. All your plans and purposes, all your motives and 
 actions, are giving shape and character to your eternal state. 
 With what awful interest, then, ought we to look upon the motives 
 that govern us here — upon the character we are here forming ! 
 With what solemn and watchful solicitude should we search our 
 hearts, and ascertain the ruling object of our life, whether it be for 
 God or for this world. 
 
 To the honor of God I wish to say it, I have lived in view of 
 eternity. Forty years since, my existence began. Then my moth- 
 er, now a saint in glory, consecrated me to God. With earnest 
 prayer she besought the Lord that I might be converted early in 
 life, and often have I heard her speak of the place, and the time, 
 when she first obtained the witness of the Spirit that her prayers 
 were answered. Often would she take me to the bed-chamber — 
 the warm tears would fall on my cheek — she would tell me of that 
 
DAVID MARKS. 485 
 
 promise of God, on which her faith took hold, and would plead 
 with me to give my heart at once to my Savior. At the age of 
 ten years, I was converted, and at fifteen I felt that I was called to 
 preach the gospel of Christ. Necessity seemed laid upon me. I 
 felt that I must go. Yet my parents were unwilling, for they 
 thought me too young, and they did not hear that voice of God 
 which I had seemed to hear, calling me to go forth at once and 
 preach the gospel. My struggles at this time were very great. 
 One day, I well remember, I was chopping alone in the woods : 
 the whole subject came up before my mind with great freshness 
 and power. I sat down and wept. I did not then know that my 
 parents were watching me. My father called me to the house, 
 and said : " Be seated, I want to talk with you a few minutes." I 
 noticed my mother's eyes were red with weeping. " My son," said 
 my father, " what have you been weeping about ?" I told him all 
 my heart, I wanted to preach the gospel. I felt that God called 
 me, and I longed to go. " My son," said he, " you may go : we 
 have for some time felt that we were like Pharaoh of old who 
 would not let the people go to serve their God ; we shall hold you 
 back no longer ; you may go." My father gave me my time, my 
 mother prepared my clothes, and the next morning I started off. I 
 was then a few days over fifteen years old. From that time I have 
 been engaged in preaching the glorious gospel. 
 
 My early career as a preacher, was in some respects pecuh'ar. 
 The novelty of my boyhood often drew out immense congi-ega- 
 tions, and of necessity, I frequently preached in the open air. 
 These circumstances, doubtless, contributed to give me great strength 
 of voice, and an unusual developement of the lungs, so that I sel- 
 dom became weary in the effort of public speaking. The call 
 for labor was so great that I often spoke six hours a day. In this 
 way I was drawn into a course which entirely overtaxed my ner- 
 vous system, and ere I was aware of my danger, I found myself 
 broken down. 
 
 But I cannot repent of my course. God has shown me a great 
 deal of his glory, so that though my life has been short, I trust, 
 through grace, it has been a blessing to my generation. Through 
 gi-ace, I have been enabled to work fast, and, I trust, accomplish 
 something for God. Often for months and even years, I have done 
 what good judges have said was labor enough for four men. So 
 intensely has my system been excited, that I could not find time to 
 sleep, and except when I have been completely exhausted, sleep 
 has been a burden to me. The language of the hymn first sung 
 by the choir, « Why sleep we, my brethren," has been very sweet 
 to my soul. 
 
 41* 
 
486 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 One of my best evidences that God has trained me for the work 
 to be done in that " spirit-land" whither I am going, is, that I have 
 such an intense love for His work, as perhaps no human constitu- 
 tion can long endure. My physical frame has sunk under it ; but 
 I bless God, that my spiritual strength has been renewed day by 
 day. Since the symptoms of death have been clear and decisive, 
 no language can describe my intense longing for that " spirit-world," 
 where I shall never tire in the work of God. My soul exults in 
 God, and seems ready to leap up and soar away, as soon as it shall 
 be released from this frail clay. 
 
 This confidence in God seems to me the more wonderful, and 
 seems the more to exalt the rich grace of God, because it is what, 
 in view of my mental constitution, I had no reason to expect. 
 
 My phrenological developements are such that it was always ex- 
 tremely difficult for me to believe in a miracle. The organ of mar- 
 vellousness is almost entirely wanting. Hence I have, naturally, a 
 strong tendency to scepticism, and I have especially been often 
 troubled with the apprehension that I should be tempted to scepti- 
 cism in the near approach of death. This hour has now come, and 
 I rejoice to testify to the glory of God, that his grace triumphs. 
 My state of mind is entirely different from what I had feared. No 
 doubts cast even their shadows across the broad sun-light of my 
 soul — all nature seems to cry out, " Man shall live again" The 
 light of a blessed immortality dawns beyond the tomb. If the 
 worthless insect re-appears in fresh beauty, and soars on new wings 
 of glory, emerging from its grave, how much more shall man live 
 again in unfading glory. 
 
 O, it cannot be, even if there were no God, that nature should 
 have implanted such a longing in the soul for immortality, if it is 
 a boon forever to be withholden. The external evidences of Chris- 
 tianity have brightened around me most surprisingly since disease 
 has been gathering strength and pushing its assaults towards the 
 citadel of life. As I saw my limbs begin to swell, and my strength 
 to wane away, O, there was a sweetness inexpressible in the con- 
 fidence my soul felt in the Lord. 
 
 This confidence is not the philosophic composure of a Hume. 
 No ! infinitely unlike it ! I bless God that the " Christian's hope" 
 is adapted not only to the philosopher, but to the peasant — to the 
 child — ^to the unlearned and the most despised of earth. None so 
 low — ^none so far from philosophic science, but may feel Christ in 
 the soul. Blessed be God, for this experience in my own case. 
 Blessed be God, that I know the indwelling presence of Christ, 
 my own glorious Savior." Now, although the outward evidences 
 of Christianity have an obvious reality that satisfies my intelligence, 
 
DAVID MARKS. 487 
 
 yet there is a sweetness in the personal knowledge of Christ in the 
 soul, that is sweeter, better, clearer, and nobler. 
 
 And now I long for my time to come. Christ is so near and so 
 precious that I cannot fear death, and cannot apprehend any evil 
 to me. O, my brethren, no reality is so sure, none so sweet, none 
 so glorious, as the Christian's hope. I am waiting now for my 
 Lord to come ; surely he cannot tarry long. I have not a linger- 
 ing doubt but that I shall soon join that blessed company in the up- 
 per world. I as much expect it as I ever expected to meet this 
 congregation in this house of worship to-day. O, I shall soon see 
 that great company — parents, I shall see your children — and chil- 
 dren, I shall see your parents too, who have gone up ; and that 
 great throng of martyrs who " came up out of great tribulation, 
 washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the 
 Lamb." 
 
 Soon shall my eyes open on that land where the sun shall no 
 more go down, nor their moon withdraw itself — where no storms 
 shall rage, nor heat, nor sun shall smite us, — and, above all, where 
 sm shall never enter nor afflict the sons and daughters of the Lord 
 Almighty. O, my brethren of the gospel ministry, how sweet to 
 be there, where the watchmen shall all see eye to eye, there too, 
 where our spiritual children shall all be gathered to praise, with 
 us, the rich grace of our Lord. There I shall meet many whom I 
 have seen here below, and with whom I have taken sweet converse 
 as we have moved along our pilgrim path-way together. O there 
 is nothing like it. Every thing else dwindles into insignificance 
 compared with that " exceeding weight of glory." 
 
 And now, I beseech you, make it the great object of your life 
 to be in sympathy with God. Then you will love to labor in his 
 cause, and God will take delight in owning your labors and crown- 
 ing them with his blessing. O how has sleep departed from my 
 eyes, as I have looked over the great West, and thought of the migh- 
 y conflict that is going on here, and is destined to go on till the 
 kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdom of our Lord. 
 
 What a scene lies outspread before us ! What an age of im- 
 provement is that on which we have fallen ! The power of the 
 press, and the wonders of steam, God has hidden from other ages 
 since the world began, and reserved them for this— doubtless that 
 they might just get under way, when he would take them into his 
 service, and use them to waft the gospel round the globe. 
 
 O ye young men and women, who are congregated here — ^give 
 yourselves up to this work. O, consider what a work you have 
 before you — to win souls to Christ — to save a soul for eternity- 
 one soul for whom Clu'ist died — surely to save one such soul were 
 
488 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 honor enough to stimulate your utmost efforts. There is no post 
 so honorable, as to be a minister of the glorious gospel, to be an 
 embassador for God — to negotiate for souls. O what a work ! 
 Let these thoughts sink down into your hearts. O live for God 
 and your generation. You enter life in a glorious time to live- 
 there is so much to do for God. 
 
 To all the unconverted let me say — ^my heart is full ; I feel for 
 you. Time's rapid tide is bearing you along, and a few days more, 
 or years, will bring you before the final bar. All the sermons 
 you have heard from brother Finney, brother Mahan, and brother 
 Morgan, and from other brethren of the " Faculty," are recorded 
 in heaven — all are registered there against you. You must meet 
 them all there. O what an account you must render on that dread 
 day ! AVhat agony of soul you must endure, if you will reject this 
 salvation, bought with blood ! I beseech you, yield your hearts to 
 God. 'Tis infinite folly and madness to delay — 'tis death to refuse ! 
 O, all of you, who are unconverted, rest not, till you have given 
 your hearts to God and found a Savior in Jesus Christ. 
 
 Finally, Brethren, Farewell. Brother Finney, I want to give 
 you my hand. All of you who love God, Farewell. 
 
 Dear sinner, I wish I could say farewell to you — but I cannot. 
 I cannot wish you well in rebellion against God. I cannot say it 
 will be well with you, for I know it never can be, till you give your 
 hearts to God. 
 
 I want one more hymn sung, and then my friends may take me 
 away. Sing the hymn, 
 
 'Vital spark of heavenly flame,' &c.' 
 
 "With this hymn and a short prayer by Professor Finney, the 
 meeting closed." 
 
 The unexpected tidings of Mr. Marks' dangerous illness and death 
 produced an unusually deep impression upon his large circle of 
 friends, and drew forth from many of them letters of condolence 
 to his widow, interspersed with expressions of the esteem with 
 which they regarded him. Some of these letters contained pecun- 
 iary assistance, which, from the consequent expenses of his pro- 
 tracted sickness, was kindness indeed. Several tributes of re- 
 spect to his memory appeared in the Morning Star. It was intend- 
 ed to make copious extracts from these, and the letters referred 
 to, but the limits of the work forbid. A few are given as speci- 
 mens of others, and as illustrative of the impressions the tidings 
 of his departure generally produced. The letters containing the 
 first two extracts, were received three days previous to his death, 
 and at his request were read to him. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 489 
 
 [From the editor of the Morning Star.] 
 
 Dover, Nov. 21, 1845. 
 Dear brother and sister Marks; — Your letters of November 11th 
 came duly to hand, and their contents deeply affected my heart. 
 Previous letters from you had encouraged the hope that brother 
 Marks would yet recover. But now, like a thunder-clap, the news 
 falls upon my ear, that all hope has expired, that he is just on the 
 verge of eternity, ready to launch away, and that arrangements have 
 been made for funeral obsequies ! In a moment, all the happy in- 
 terviews and pleasant associations of the past rushed upon my mind. 
 Can it be possible, thought I, that I shall see brother Marks' face 
 no more — no more hear his kind words, nor receive from him the 
 friendly epistle ! It seemed indeed like a dream. I thought of 
 the pleasant associations of gone-by days — of a brother and sister 
 Beede, now in heaven, I trust — of a brother Burbank, too, with 
 whom I was long associated in the Star office. He too, is gone. 
 And it really seemed that I was about to be left alone. Well, if it 
 must be so, * The will of the Lord be done.' It will not be long 
 before I shall follow ; and may God grant that we all may meet 
 above. Sister Marks, you have my prayers, and the prayers of 
 many friends here. The Lord, I have no doubt, affords and will 
 continue to afford you his sustaining grace in your great affliction. 
 
 7^ ^ ^ ^ ^ T^^ 7^ ^ yp 
 
 I remain truly and affectionately yours, 
 
 Wm. Burr." 
 
 [From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Boston, N. Y.] 
 
 " Nov. 21, 1845. 
 Dear brother Marks : — * * * j cannot believe that 
 you are positively nearing the cold valley, I can but hope it is only 
 a temporary prostration, from which you will soon recover. For 
 this, be assured, you have my earnest petitions. Please allow me 
 to say, that there is no man living to whom I owe so much as your- 
 self. Your kind admonitions were an excellent oil, which often 
 soothed and encouraged my disconsolate and desponding spirits. 
 Where I should have been by this time, without your timely aid, 
 the Lord only tnows. I never think of it, without a sensation of 
 gratitude arising in my heart. I was happy to hear of your joy- 
 ful state of mind. God's grace is sufficient, bless his name. 
 * * * * * Yours truly, 
 
 P. W. Belknap." 
 
 [From the Clerk of the Ashtabula quarterly meeting, Ohio.] 
 
 " CoNNEAUT, Nov. 29, 1845. 
 Dear sister Marks : — I received your letter yesterday and haste 
 to reply. I felt melancholy at the intelligence that brother Marks 
 
490 aiEMOIRS OF 
 
 is apparently on the borders of the grave, (and perhaps at this 
 moment is praising God in heaven,) and still a thrill of joy sprang 
 up in my soul, on the reflection, that if his work on earth is done, it 
 is well done, and he can say with Paul, that he has ' finished his 
 course and kept the faith.' O how consoling : but sure it is, 
 * God's ways are past finding out.' The providence of God in 
 withholding the labors of brother Marks, and taking him to him- 
 self, at so early a period, to us is mysterious, when so many live to 
 a great age, that are mere ciphers and worse than naught in the 
 moral world. But may God give us grace to guard against mur- 
 muring at His dealings with us in this trying hour. I think, of late, 
 I have reflected on the situation of that portion of the Zion of 
 God with which we stand particularly connected, something as I 
 should. We have nothing of which to boast, but we have had, and 
 still have, as good native talent as any of our sister denominations ; 
 and to see some of our strong men leave the field, I have been 
 led to inquire, ' By whom shall Jacob arise ?' One, on one hand, 
 has fallen by his own improprieties, and now another, to whom we 
 have looked as one of our * Pioneers' and champions, is brought 
 near the grave, (if not already interred,) one who has long stood 
 high in the councils of our denomination, and who, by privations, 
 perseverance, and personal sacrifice, was instrumental in aiding to 
 secure, as the property of the connexion, the Morning Stai', by the 
 light of which thousands have been blessed. The influence he has 
 exerted in its favor, the unwearied effort he has made to extend its 
 heavenly rays, by extending its circulation, all these things, in addition 
 to ^ preaching the word,' have occupied my mind since I received 
 your deeply affecting letter. But what can I say to you in this 
 hour of affliction ? To say that I fully sympathize with you 
 would be an idle phrase, for as deeply as I feel the affliction for 
 Zion's sake, I cannot feel what a companion feels in such a trying 
 hour. ***** Mskj God's grace support 
 you is my prayer. Silas A. Davis." 
 
 [From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Lowell, Mass.] 
 
 Dec. 3, 1845. 
 Dear brother Marks ; — I received yours of the -lOth ult. a few 
 days since, and was very sorry to learn that you were so low and 
 feeble. I still hope and pray, if it can be consistent with the ^vill 
 of our Heavenly Father, that you may yet be raised up to health. 
 Can it be that I shall never again see your face in the flesh ? Shall 
 I never again sit with you in General Conference to deliberate up- 
 on the interests of Zion ? I hope I may : but if God should otherwise 
 order, we must submit. We have spent many happy hours together 
 in past years in different places in studying and laboring for the in- 
 
DAVID MARKS. 491 
 
 terests of our beloved denomination. * * * * j 
 am glad, dear brother, to learn that you enjoy the presence of the 
 Lord, and feel resigned to his will. His grace will be sufficient for 
 you. I trust we shall yet live eternally, where pleasures never die 
 and sorrows never come. Yours very affectionately, 
 
 Silas Curtis." 
 
 Subsequently he wrote : — 
 
 "Dear Sister Marks: — Never shall I forget the sensations 
 which were produced in my mind when I opened your letter, 
 and learned the solemn intelligence that brother Marks was 
 no more on earth. Thought I, can it be that he is dead? 
 Shall I see him no more in this w^orld? Has he indeed done with 
 toils, tears, cares, and labors, and gone to his glorious reward on 
 high ? The recollection of many past scenes instantly rushed into 
 my mind. The first time that I saw him was at the General Con- 
 ference in Spafford, N. Y., more than sixteen years ago. Since 
 that time, I have had an intimate and happy acquaintance with him, 
 and our hearts were ever closely united in Christian ties, which 
 death itself cannot dissolve. We have often journeyed, preached, 
 and prayed together. We have wept and rejoiced together. We 
 have spent many days and weeks, and a great part of many nights, 
 in company with our associates of the Publishing Committee, in 
 preparing for the press the ' Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will 
 Baptists,' in devising means for the success of our Book Concern, 
 and in laboring to promote the general interests of the cause of 
 Christ. I was also reminded of my last parting with him at the 
 General Conference in Plainfield, N. Y. in 1844. In his last 
 speech in that Conference, he told us that he should never meet 
 with us in General Conference again ; yet little did I then think 
 that I should never more see him till we meet on immortal shores. 
 It is indeed true that he is gone. His work is done — his sufferings 
 are ended — he has joined the admiring host around the throne 
 above. My first and last interviews with him were at General Con- 
 ferences, both of which were in the state of New York. 
 
 When I think of my dear brother Marks' peaceful, happy, vic- 
 torious death, lean but wish that I could have been with him to wit- 
 ness that glorious hour, when angels waited around his bed to bear his 
 spirit to the skies ; but I look forward to future scenes. When a few 
 more griefs are ended, when a few more storms have beat upon 
 me, when I shall have blown the gospel trumpet a few times more, 
 I hope to have the same grace to sustain me while passing through 
 the gloomy vale, and then I shall meet the glorified spirit of broth- 
 er Marks, with all my dear bretliren in the ministry, and all the 
 faithful who have gone before, on the plains of immortal glory, 
 
492 MEMOIRS 05* 
 
 where we shall gaze, and wonder, and admire— where our spirits 
 will never faint — and our joys will never end. 
 
 " O glorious day ! O blessed hope ! 
 My heart leaps forward at the thought, 
 When in that happy, happy land, 
 We'll no more take the parting hand," 
 
 With such hopes and prospects as these, my dear sister, let us 
 submissively bow to that Divine Providence, which has removed 
 from you, for a short time, an affectionate husband, from Zion's 
 walls, a bold, fearless, and faithful watchman, and say, V Father, let 
 thy will be done/ 
 
 I am truly yours in Christ, Silas Curtis.'* 
 
 [From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church at Great Falls, N. H.] 
 
 « December 17, 1845. 
 My dear sister Marks : — The sad intelligence of the departure 
 of your dear husband has just been received, and although it is im- 
 possible for me to give an expression of the sympathy and sorrow 
 I feel, yet it seems a privilege to communicate something. * * 
 
 * * You have our strongest sympathies and affections, and 
 over the loss of the very many amiable and even holy qualifica- 
 tions of your dear companion, I mourn, as I have never mourned 
 over the loss of any other minister. I hope the remainder of his 
 Life will be given to the public as soon as possible. I read his 
 
 * Narrative' with deep interest soon after my conversion, and it 
 then produced an anxious desire in my mind for more holiness of 
 heart, and for higher attainments in the Christian life. After I be- 
 lieved that God had called me to the ministry, I read it again, and 
 the effect produced was still deeper. Indeed, much of my usefulness, 
 (if any useful spots are to be seen in my almost useless life,) is 
 to be attributed to that peculiar sympathy for sinners, and anxiety 
 for their salvation, which was wrought in my heart, more, perhaps, 
 by reading his ' Narrative,' than any other one book except the 
 Bible. As Mrs. Dunn wishes to write, I must close ; but my soul 
 is full, and I feel like weeping constantly, while from my heart the 
 anxious inquiry is arising, O God, on whom shall the mantle of 
 this good man fall ? Dear sister, you are not alone in your afflic- 
 tion. You are but one of more than sixty thousand mourners ! I 
 know you feel it as others cannot ; but I trust you are prepared, 
 as in this low time others are not. But we will trust in the Lord, 
 
 * whose mercy endureth forever.' I feel that the grateful thanks 
 of the denomination are due to those whose efficient kindness was 
 so freely manifested in your recent trials. The Lord reward them. 
 
 In Christ, yours affectionately. Ransom Dunn." 
 
 " My beloved sister in Christ : — I sit for a moment to express in 
 a word something of the deep feelings of my heart, in consequence 
 
DAVID MARKS. 493 
 
 of our T)ereavement, as a denomination, and the cause of the belov- 
 ed Zion of God generally. I feel that we are bereaved. God has 
 been dealing with us : he has dealt sternly, but it has been justly. 
 Can it be that our beloved brother Marks is laid aside ? Are his 
 labors at an end ? Are sinners no more to hear that voice that has 
 so faithfully and affectionately warned them to seek the God of 
 their salvation ? Yes, his labors are done, and he has gone to his 
 reward. Many will rise in the great day of accounts to call him 
 blessed. I cannot refrain my tears while I write. Being much 
 beloved, he dies much lamented. I would not say a word to probe 
 the wound so deeply made, or cause a bleeding heart to bleed 
 afresh ; but were it in my power, would fain speak a word of conso- 
 lation. In the absence of your departed husband, you have the pres* 
 ence of Him who can heal all your sorrows. You, my dear sister, 
 have noAv become heir to more promises, than you could have been 
 in any other situation, and may they be your support. 
 
 Affectionately, yours in sympathy, Mary E. Dunn." 
 
 |From a student of Oberlin College, now Principal of the Preparatory Department of 
 that Institution.] 
 
 " Newburgh, Ohio, Dec. 20, 1845. 
 
 Dear sister Marks : — You have had a right to expect a letter 
 from me before this, and it has been in my heart to write ; but I 
 have felt, in view of the circumstances, such a poverty of language 
 that it seemed almost a mockery to pen a word. * * * How 
 soon has the prediction of brother Marks, in his last words to me, 
 ' You will see my face no more till we meet in heaven,' met its ful- 
 filment ! Yes, that event that we all, except himself, fondly en- 
 deavored to persuade ourselves was far in the future, has come up- 
 on us as it were in a moment. Thus has God taught us as with a 
 lightning flash, how strangely insecure are all our creature com- 
 forts. I feel awed and rebuked before my Heavenly Father. 
 
 I strongly desired that brother Marks should live. There seem- 
 ed to me many reasons why it was important that his days should 
 be prolonged. 1. Its influence on myself I anticipated much 
 benefit from his counsels, which his lavge experience so eminently 
 qualified him to give. His uniforra kindness, and the deep interest 
 which he constantly manifested in my welfare, made it entirely safe 
 for me to indulge high expectations of much that would be exceed- 
 ingly valuable in preparing me for the ministry. 2. The fewness 
 of ministers among us, whose hearts are so thoroughly imbued with 
 the spirit of reform, and who have such clear views of the doctrine 
 of perfect love, as beyond all question was true of him. 3. I knew 
 if he lived, he would do much to strengthen that sweet union which 
 has sprung up between the Free-will Baptists and the dear Oberlin 
 42 
 
494 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 brethren. I consider It matter of devout thanksgiving to God, that 
 he came to Oberlin, and since his appointed hour had come, that he 
 was permitted to die there. I would rather he should lay down 
 his life there than any where else in the world. The hand of the 
 Lord was in his coming to Oherlin. Let it be proclaimed to all 
 our brethren, that one of their most faithful ministers went shout- 
 ing home to his Lord from Oberlin — that Mr. Finney preached at 
 his funeral, and that his remains repose in glorious hope in the 
 Oberlin burying ground, and let the brethren of both denominations 
 know, that as the Lord gave brother Marks to the Oberlin breth- 
 ren to die with them, and with them to be buried, so should they 
 give themselves to each other, to be one in the Lord, and that, al- 
 though they may preserve their denominational distinction, yet in 
 their hearts they should know no difference. 
 
 You need not, sister, that I write words of consolation to you. 
 You have in the example of your departed husband — in his perfect 
 resignation to the will of God — in his triumphant confidence, an in- 
 finitely clearer light to the Fountain of all consolation, than any 
 thing that I can say." 
 
 Subsequently he wrote as follows : " It is my decided opinion 
 that a Memoir of brother Marks should be published as soon as 
 may be. All classes need it. To young ministers, especially, will 
 it be of immense value in forming in them that apostolic earnestness 
 for which brother Marks was most remarkable, and which is all 
 important in a servant of Jesus. * * * * I need not say 
 that I have been deeply affected by reading the funeral sermon, 
 the addi-esses, &c. Being separated from brother Marks during 
 the last days of his stay upon earth, and my attention constantly 
 engrossed with a large school, I had hardly aroused to the fact, that 
 he was dead, until I obtained the funeral sermon in the Evangel- 
 ist. Then it was the sad truth seemed a reality : then I began to 
 feel that pressure of sorrow — that aching of heart which tells me I 
 have lost more than a brother. I can say, in all sincerity, I great- 
 ly loved brother Marks. During the whole time I was permitted 
 to enjoy his acquaintance, he manifested the strongest sympathy 
 with me in my efforts to obtain an education, entering as really into 
 my trials and difficulties as thougli they were his own. And now 
 that he is gone, the remembrance of those seasons that I have 
 spent with him, although it unseals the fountains of my soul, is still 
 among the sweetest of my recollections. How I rejoice that I con- 
 sented, at his request, to leave my books and attend those meetings 
 which we attended together the past autumn. I wish I could re- 
 cord every word he said in our pleasant rides. Never can I forget 
 the profitable time we had returning from quarterly meeting last 
 September. He was much animated the whole evening. He 
 
DAVID MARKS. 495 
 
 spoke of the danger of ministers from pride, from ambition, from 
 love of praise, from jealousy of their ministering brethren. I re- 
 member how tenderly and affectionately he spoke of his minister- 
 ing brethren, especially of those from whom he had been compell- 
 ed to diifer. I am sure he possessed a Christ-like spirit toward all 
 his brethren. 
 
 Soon after this, while yet we were all encouraged by the favora- 
 ble indications of returning health, conversing with him one day 
 upon the moral wants of the ' West,' he said, with much emotion, 
 ' Ah, brother Whipple, if I can only regain my health, so as to be 
 comfortable, I shall give up my studies, give up writing, take no 
 more agencies, but spend all my remaining strength travelling 
 through the 'West,' preaching Christ to perishing sinners.' It 
 was not long, however, before he gave up all idea of preaching any 
 more, being convinced that his work upon earth was almost done. 
 
 October 28. I called upon brother Marks, and found sister 
 Marks in tears by his bed-side. He welcomed me with his usual 
 affectionate manner. He said, 'I have just been telling my wife 
 that she must prepare for a separation, for I am well satisfied that 
 my stay upon earth will be short. I feel that it would be mistaken 
 kindness to withhold this conviction from her. How common for 
 families to put far from them, as a topic of conversation, this sub- 
 ject. What can be more unwise ! Often many things that ought 
 to be done and said, are neglected until the last agony comes on, 
 and then there is no time. My wife will soon be a widow, and I 
 wish to say all to her that I can, that will be of any use to her 
 when I am gone. I leave a kind and pleasant family. I bless 
 God the review of our matrimonial life has in it no bitterness. I 
 have nothing to bequeath to my dear companion except my dying 
 counsel, but the Lord will provide.^ October 31. Expecting to 
 leave on the morrow, I called to lake my leave of brother Marks. 
 Said he, ' Farewell, brother Whipple, you will see me no more in 
 the flesh. Before the winter shall have half passed away, I shall 
 enter upon higher duties in heaven. I have,' continued he, with 
 tears, ' exceedingly loved the work of Christ. I have been a poor 
 fallible instrument, but, in all my efforts, I have honestly sought 
 the good of Zion. If the Lord will, I want to preach once more, 
 and write a farewell address to the Free-will Baptist denomination, 
 and then go home. Our acquaintance has been very pleasant, our 
 next meeting will be unspeakably glorious.' 
 
 Thus, my dear sister, I have given you, in much anguish of spir- 
 it, and with many tears, a very imperfect sketch of two or three 
 conversations I had with your departed husband. I can hardly be 
 reconciled to the sad, sad truth, that I shall see his face no more in 
 this life. I am aware this strain of remark will have little tenden- 
 
496 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 cy to console j'ou ; but it seems to me you have an element of con- 
 solation of which I am deprived. Shut away as I was from hi» 
 dying couch, I have not the preparation for the bereavement, which 
 witnessing his most triumphant departure, would have given. Ah, 
 it would have been a great privilege, could I have watched beside 
 him the last few days in which he was crossing the river. But I 
 will not murmur ; nay, I would be unfeignedly thankful to my 
 Heavenly Father, that I have been permitted to enjoy his society 
 so long, and I trust this most wise stroke will not be lost upon me. 
 I feel called upon to dedicate myself anew to the Lord, and do 
 what I can to fill up the breach made in the sacramental host by 
 the removal of that valiant soldier. * * * 
 
 Farewell. Yours in the bonds of our holy religion, 
 
 Henry E. Whipple.*' 
 
 At a recent date, he wrote : " Would that I could have seen the 
 pale cold face of the sainted Torrey ! Would that I could have 
 dipped the point of my sword in his blood, and over his murdered 
 body, renewed my oath against slavery ! But his death will not 
 be lost upon me. It will unite its influence with the death of your 
 dear husband, to call me to nervous action in the cause of Grod. 
 Their bodies have been laid in the grave ; but tlieir spirits have 
 gone up on high to receive their reward. I have no doubt but 
 they will be intimate friends in heaven. * They were lovely and 
 pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not' much ' di- 
 vided.' With peculiar emphasis, I can go on and say, * I am dis- 
 tressed for thee, my dear brother Marks : very pleasant hast thou 
 been unto me : thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of 
 women.' * * I cannot myself write about your dear departed 
 husband, without pain of soul, such as no other affliction ever occa- 
 sioned. My heart cries out with unutterable longings for my 
 brother, whose face I may see no more. O, had I known last sum- 
 mer, that he was so soon to be taken away, how I would have treas- 
 ured up his words, and how careful I should have been to spend all 
 the time possible in his society. O, those were precious ties of 
 Christian love, that had just begun to bind strongly your dear fam- 
 ily to me and mine. I had begun to promise myself much profit 
 and happiness in the connection, when, alas ! the strongest link was 
 snapped forever. I cannot but feel, and most keenly feel, that 
 when the grave closed over the body of your dear husband, it con- 
 cealed from me, as far as this world is concerned, some of my 
 most cherished anticipations ; but they shall be restored again. 
 Faith points to a brighter shore. It will not be long, and we shall 
 all go. Blessed prospect ! Those ties, although sundered for time, 
 yet reach beyond the grave, and draw us more strongly towards 
 
DAVID MARKS. 497 
 
 heaven. AVhere the treasure is there will the heart be also." * 
 * * * * H. E. W. 
 
 [From Mrs. Professor Finney.] 
 
 " My dear afflicted Friend : — The lonely feeling, no doubt, of- 
 ten comes over you with unutterable anguish, * My bosom compan- 
 ion is gone ! I am solitary and alone, as it were, in the midst of 
 the world !' I feel, dear Mrs. Marks, that you need consolation, 
 since the tie that so long bound you to your dear husband has been 
 dissolved. The Lord, I trust, sustains and comforts you. How 
 glorious the idea that Mr. Marks will never die. His poor body 
 is laid aside, but his spirit is now released, disenthralled, no longer 
 chained down to earth, unable to rise and seize the prize his ardent 
 soul panted for. Although there are many things this side eterni- 
 ty calculated to bear us onward and upward, still the uniform ten- 
 dency is downward. We are by the very constitution and the ne- 
 cessities of our nature compelled to descend, and become conver- 
 sant with affairs little in accordance with those high hopes, which 
 life and immortality have brought to light. Let us then rejoice 
 that the heaven-born spirits of our friends are no longer bound 
 down as ours are while in this frail tabernacle of flesh. I felt it to 
 be a matter of thanksgiving that your Heavenly Father indulged 
 you in the precious privilege of attending your sick and dying hus- 
 band, to minister to his wants. Was it not an unspeakable consola- 
 tion, when his strength was departing, and you felt that the dear 
 Savior had sent a message for him, to see him not only, not disturb- 
 ed or agitated, because ' flesh and spirit were about to fail,* but 
 exceedingly joyful in hope of soon seeing Jesus ? 
 
 Dear Mrs. Marks, keep your eye of faith steadily fixed above, 
 and your hope anchored within the vail. That the presence of God 
 may pervade your soul from day to day, is the prayer of your sym- 
 pathizing friend, L. R. Finney." 
 
 [From the Principal of Smithville Seminary, R. I.] 
 
 « North Scituate, R. L Dec. 24, 1845. 
 Sister Marks : — ^It w^as with deep emotions that your last came 
 to hand, announcing the exit of your husband. I could but look 
 back to my first meeting with him, and the happy seasons we have 
 since enjoyed at various times. Such recollections are sweet. But 
 when I think that one of their participants is no more on earth, it 
 strikes a gloom, and pierces my heart with a pang of sorrow. But 
 we must submit. We must all die. We must soon follow the de- 
 parted. Then how it behooves us to live in a state of preparation 
 for the otherwise gloomy change. Though it is painful to take the 
 finally parting hand with the dear people of God, yet it is blissful 
 to reflect upon theii' triumphant departure, and their glorious state 
 42* 
 
498 MEMOIRS OP 
 
 among the beatific above. Doubtless these subjects of reflection 
 soothe your sorrowing heart, and alleviate your distress of spirit. 
 
 * * * Hoping to meet you in the world of bliss, together with 
 your departed husband, I subscribe myself yours truly, 
 
 Ho SEA QUINBY. 
 
 [From an Episcopalian lady in Vermont,] 
 
 "Arlington, Vt. Dec. 25, 1845. 
 
 My Dear Niece : — * * * * xhe Oberlin Evangelist, 
 containing intelligence of the death of your beloved husband came 
 two days ago. I cannot realize that he has closed up his earthly 
 labors, that he is no more to go out and come in among us, or speak 
 to us of the blessed Savior. But it is — it must be so. Were not 
 the promise sure that the Lord is a present help in time of trouble, 
 and did you not realize this promise, your heart would be utterly 
 desolate : but I trust that He is your refuge in this your severe af- 
 fliction — that your heart is fixed — that you can say. Though he 
 slay rae, yet will I trust in him. My dear aflflicted neice, how do I 
 long to see you — ^to do all in my power to pour in the healing balm 
 of consolation into your stricken bosom, but you have a Friend 
 whose sympathy is all-powerful to relieve — who is afflicted in all 
 your afflictions, and will save you out of them all. He healeth the 
 broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. Whom the Lord 
 loveth he chasteneth. I pray and trust that you faint not under 
 His rebuke, but that you regard your present affliction as a token 
 of His love, more precious than earthly friends or any earthly con- 
 sideration, and that you cheerfully acquiesce in the will of God. 
 Cast your burden, therefore, upon the Lord, who, though he afllict, 
 will cause all things to work together for your good. Trust in 
 Him. He will give you grace to sustain you in all the trials he 
 sees fit to cause you to suffer. ' They that trust in the Lord shall 
 be as mount Zion, that cannot be removed.' ***** 
 
 There is much, too, in the circumstances attending your case. 
 His ' rough wind' has not blown upon you ; though it have been 
 
 * the day of his east wind,' it has been ' tempered' to you in much 
 mercy. Your own loss is all you have to mourn. You had the in- 
 estimable privilege of watching over your dear husband in his sick- 
 ness, and administering to all his temporal wants, and also spiritu- 
 al comfort, as far as earthly friends could minister ; and above all 
 you had the unspeakable consolation of witnessing the glorious tri- 
 umph of his faith over the last enemy, death, and you have not a 
 reasonable doubt but his freed spirit has entered the mansions pre- 
 pared for them that love God. What ingredient more could have 
 been added to sweeten your cup of sorrow^ ? Next to the consola- 
 tions derived from the gospel, are the testimonies of the kind re- 
 membrances and sympathy of those who loved our departed friend j 
 
DAVID MARKS. 499 
 
 mnd you have many such testimonies, both written and unwritten. 
 From the gospel, too, you have all the consolations which its divine 
 promises afford to the believer. What an inexhaustible source of 
 comfort ! It is a fountain ever full and ever open — whence the 
 soul, bowed down under the weight of its sorrows, may draw of the 
 waters of life, and drink, and be satisfied — yea, its mourning be 
 turned to joy and gladness. That this may be your experience, is 
 the prayer of your affectionate aunt, M. Turner. 
 
 [From the pastor of three Freewill Baptist Churches in Strafford, N. H.] 
 
 "Dec. 31, 1845. 
 
 Dear sister Marks : — The very able letter which your late and 
 much esteemed husband recently wrote me, even when he was fee- 
 ble and filled with distress, was duly received, and read with thrill- 
 ing interest. * * * Before I had done reading it, a 
 solemn and sinking feeling took hold of my heart, different from 
 anything I ever experienced before, when reading one of his com- 
 munications, and I remarked : — ' Brother Marks has about done 
 his work ; he is going from his labors to rewards.' 
 
 On the 22d inst., a brother came from Dover, and said that on 
 the Sabbath previous, Elder Perkins, who preaches to the first Free- 
 will Baptist church, named to the congregation that brother Marks 
 was dead ! ! O what reflections ! O what a thrilling shock it gave 
 me ! and I replied in David's words ; ^ Know ye not that a great 
 man has fallen in Israel ?' Yesterday, as myself and wife were 
 alone in our house, seeing the mail pass, she went to the Post Office 
 and got our papers. In came the Morning Star, all in deep mourn- 
 ing. She commenced reading to me and weeping. I then took the 
 paper, and read and wept, and wept and read, and even rejoiced, 
 withal, that he who had been so strong in faith, and abundant in 
 labors, had been so happy and victorious in death ; and although 
 he fell a martyr (as did Randall and Colby) to his zeal for the 
 Lord of Hosts, he has gone to receive that reward which all have 
 received who have truly laid down their lives for Christ. I thought 
 of our first acquaintance — our hearts had ever been united like the 
 hearts of David and Jonathan. Again, I thought of the time when he 
 and brother Beede, with myself, composed the committee to draft the 
 plan of our Book Establishment. They are gone. I shall soon 
 follow. I thought of his address to the members of the last Gen- 
 eral Conference, at Plainfield, at its close, when coming down out 
 of the desk, with tears flowing over his manly cheeks. But I will 
 say no more about my own reflections. 
 
 My dear sister, you have abundant reason to thank God that you 
 have been permitted to live with His faithful servant some sixteen 
 ;j^ears, and that you now have such an interest in heaven, and at- 
 
600 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 tachment to that heavenly world as you never had before. O I 
 do sympathize with you and your adopted daughter, as well as with 
 the whole denomination, who, as a general thing, will be like their 
 religious paper, all in mourning. * * * * You 
 wall, no doubt, in due time, prepare a second volume of brother 
 Marks' Narrative, and should the book not be too expensive, but 
 so low that about all may obtain it, it will have an extensive circula- 
 tion, and my dear brother by it, though dead, will yet speak, to the 
 conversion of sinners, to the comforting of saints, and the awaken- 
 ing and stirring up of the ministry. We must all be more faithful, more 
 devoted. I intend to be, for one, by God's help, and so aid in making 
 up Zion's loss. My opinion is, that, eventually, God will overrule 
 our dear brother's death to the interests of his church. Let us re- 
 member the words he spake unto us while he was yet with us. 
 
 The kindness of Professor Finney and others at Oberlin to 
 brother Marks will be gratefully remembered by every true Free- 
 will Baptist. 
 
 Very affectionately your brother in tribulation, 
 
 E. Place." 
 
 [From the New Year's Address in the Morning Star, written by Elder A. K. Moulton of 
 Portland, Me., one of the associate editors.] 
 
 " Some of the early patrons of the Star have gone forever : and 
 one, whose name is dear to all — 07ie, who helped to warm it into 
 life, and whose ' light' has been from week to week emitted through 
 the Star, and who has labored almost incessantly to sustain it, 
 whose sentiments have assisted in no small degree to give a tone to 
 our beloved denomination, whose voice has gladdened her assem- 
 blies, and whose counsels have added to her prosperity, has gone to 
 his reward." 
 
 [From the pastor of theFree-Avill Baptist church in Roxbury, Mass., formerly a Tutor in 
 Oberlin College.] 
 
 Roxbury, Jan. 5, 1846. 
 Dear sister Marks : — We received your letter a week or two 
 since, containing the sad news of brother Marks' death. What shall 
 I say ? How shall I express the feelings which have not yet be- 
 gun to die away in my heart ? Our dear brother Marks is gone ! 
 But O what a death ! How gloriously triumphant ! As I read 
 the account of his last sickness, I could only read and weep, and 
 weep and read. Never did the fountain of my soul seem to be so 
 broken up. I cannot call it to mind without renewing the flow 
 of tears — mingled tears of joy and grief; nor without recollecting 
 many things in my acquaintance with brother Marks. Especially 
 does it bring to mind the first time that I heard him preach, and 
 the second. [I heard him only three times.] I had read his 
 
DAVID MARKS. 501 
 
 ^Narrative/ and regarded many of the statements contained in it, 
 respecting the effect wliich almost always attended his preaching, 
 as utterly unaccountable ; but when I heard him the first time, 
 which was but eighteen months since, [at Lagrange, Ohio. Ed.] 
 my incredulity entirely vanished. It was a communion season, 
 and his subject was the Lord's Supper. It seemed to me that my 
 soul was but a vessel of tears. I stifled my sobs, until I could not 
 refrain from weeping aloud. It was so with many. He possessed 
 a peculiar power to reach the fountain of sympathy within the 
 heart. Thus it was to nearly an equal degree the second time I 
 heard him preach, three months afterward. Is it possible that he 
 is gone ? O ! can it be ? Dear sister, I would not harrow up 
 your feelings, but you will allow me to weep with you. It seems 
 as if it could not be that I should no more see brother Marks 
 nor hear from his lips, the melting truths of Calvary. Had I sup- 
 posed that he would, ere this, have gone down to the grave, I should 
 not so soon have hurried away, when I was at your house in August 
 last. Yes, it is indeed true. I shall no more see my beloved broth- 
 er during all the pilgrimage of earth. But surely there is another 
 magnet to draw us heavenward ; and yet how shall we do without 
 him ? We shall deeply feel his loss for many years. But espec- 
 ially shall I. To few persons during my life, have I felt so strong 
 a personal attachment as to brother Marks. His was one of the 
 warmest hearts that ever beat in the bosom of man, and one of the 
 most generous. His was no suspicious, half-confiding friendship, 
 but whole-souled, unsuspecting. If I mourned only my individual 
 loss it would be irreparable. But again, I revert to the glorious 
 death-bed triumph. Would that the infidel world could have been 
 there, ^ to see how a Christian can die.' Die ! It is not death ! It 
 is but the budding forth of eternal life. Nor is such a triumph a 
 miracle. It is only an exhibition, (such as might be common,) of 
 the power of that full salvation which the gospel proffers, and 
 which was the theme of brother Marks' delightful contemplation. 
 My last conversation with him was upon this point. Even then 
 the smiles of heaven, beaming from his face, spoke of a peace that 
 passeth all understanding, and of joys that are unspeakable and 
 FULL OF GLORY ! Ncver can I forget the expression of his coun- 
 tenance on that day. O I would have been glad to have stood by 
 him in the hour of his victory. Yours, dear sister, has been a pe- 
 culiar privilege. You were near him to hear his words of glorious 
 triumph. 
 
 A week ago yesterday, I preached a sermon to my congregation 
 on the occasion of brother Marks' death, from Psalms 41:1 — 3; 
 and read most of your diary in connection with my discourse. The 
 impression made, seemed to be deep and solemn. Sobbing was 
 
502 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 heard through all the house. I do not know but it will be true 
 that brother Marks will be found in the day of judgment to have 
 slain more in his death than he did during his life. I feel to con- 
 secrate myself anew to the ministry ; and well may the minister of 
 the cross, in view of such a scene, exclaim, 'I am not ashamed of 
 the gospel of Christ, for it is the wisdom and the power of God 
 unto salvation, to every one that believeth.' * * * * 
 * * You have the prayers and sympathies of hundreds 
 here, both those who have personally known you and those who 
 have not. 
 
 From your sympathizing brother in Christ, 
 
 Edmund B. Fairfield. 
 
 [From the Morning Star, written by the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Bos- 
 ton, Mass, formerly a missionary to India.] 
 
 " Elder Marks. Week before last I took the Oberlin Evan- 
 gelist out of the office, and the first thing that caught my eye was 
 the funeral sermon of this devoted and eminently useful brother 
 I shut myself up alone, and read and wept almost all day. O wha 
 a triumphant death ! Brother Marks died not only a Christian, bu 
 a MAN, a full grown man. If ever there was any thing like 
 clearness and strength of intellect, we find it in him to the very 
 last. Who ever heard of an infidel, a heathen, or a man of the 
 w^orld, dying as brother Marks did ? 
 
 On the following Sabbath I preached from the words, ' Precious 
 in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints ;' and, at the 
 close of my discourse, read sister Marks' journal of her husband's 
 last days. It was a solemn and affecting time. A few days af- 
 ter, when brother Marks' farewell address to the denomination, 
 and his discourse to the students of Oberlin, came out in the Star, 
 I expected, of course, to find but a few disconnected sentences from 
 a dying man ; but when I found him reasoning as clearly and for- 
 cibly as ever I knew him to do when in health, I could but glorify 
 God, who had given such gifts to men. In brother Marks, our 
 denomination has lost one of its pillars — A great man has fallen in 
 our Israel; but we are honored by having such a hero of the cross 
 in heaven. I hope an able hand will assist sister Marks in collect- 
 ing the materials and preparing a complete memoir of his life. 
 Certainly no book will be in greater demand throughout our de- 
 nomination. * * * * En Notes. 
 
 Boston, Jan. 12, 1846." 
 
 Subsequently he wrote : — 
 
 " Dear sister — I scarcely know what to say. Your loss is great, 
 but how can you grieve ? A mind so fitted for glory ought not to 
 
DAVID MARKS. 503 
 
 have been longer confined in a human body. O what would any 
 of us give, to be where brother Marks is to day ! I well remem- 
 ber the first evening I ever spent with yourself and husband. It 
 was at the house of Deacon Hutchinson in Fayette, Me. He 
 spoke to me about going to India. Ever since that time, you have 
 both been near and dear to my heart. I hope, dear sister, you 
 will have grace to enable you to bear all trials imposed upon you 
 by a kind Parent, and that you will have friends in every time of 
 need. * * * Thine in the Lord, 
 
 Eli Notes." 
 
 [Prom the Morning Star, written by an aged minister.] 
 
 * * * "In the above mentioned meeting, [a two 
 
 days meeting in Savannah, Crusoe Island, N. Y.,] I preached a funer- 
 al sermon on the death of our late departed brother. Elder David 
 Marks. I first read his last address to the connexion, then preach- 
 ed a short discourse from Hebrews 11:13. 'These all died in 
 faith,' &c. I think it was a profitable time. It was but a few 
 miles from this place, that he experienced the reality of that Scrip- 
 ture, ' They that seek me early shall find me.' Yes, and on the 
 marsh that lies along this island, is the place where he went to 
 work on the canal to get money with which to buy his first gram- 
 mar. Here I imagined I saw the drunken Catholics, giving him 
 their sympathies, and contributing to relieve him from further toil ; 
 yes, and near this runs on the pleasant stream, where he followed 
 his Divine Lord in the ordinance of baptism ; and near here he 
 received his first license to preach. While these things were pass- 
 ing in review, they had a powerful effect on myself and on the 
 crowded audience, who had gathered through a tedious storm. 
 Glory to God, for his triumphant death. I think his doings and 
 sayings in his dying day will do more than all he has done in his 
 life, for this was the crowning day of all his labor : Glory to God. 
 I never knew how much I loved him till now. How often w^e have 
 wept, and prayed, and eaten together, in the name of the Lord — 
 and now his body lies cold and dead at Oberlin ! But I shall soon 
 shake hands with him or see him in a fairer world on high, for I 
 feel that I am doing my last work. Farewell. 
 
 Samuel Wire." 
 
 [From the pastor of the Free-wilJ Baptist chm-ch in Manchester, N. H.] 
 
 Manchester, Jan. 16, 1846. 
 Dear sister Marks: — Your sad letter came to us Dec. 19th, in- 
 forming us of the death of your dear husband, our beloved broth- 
 er Marks. O ! it was very sad and painful news to us. Can it be 
 possible that we shall see him no more on earth ! Both myself and 
 wife weep and deeply sympathize with you in your great loss. 
 
O04 "* MEMOISS 0^ 
 
 Brother Marks' character was no ordinary one. With a mind deep- 
 ly engrossed with great plans for the promotion* of the cause of 
 Christ, he united the kindest sympathies and most tender affection 
 for his friends. 
 
 You know we both loved and highly esteemed your dear hus- 
 band ; and from my long and intimate acquaintance with him, be- 
 ing associated with him on the Publishing Committee, and witness- 
 ing his deep devotion to the interests of our denomination, as well 
 as the cause generally, I became greatly attached to him, and I know 
 of no minister among our beloved brethren, whom I regarded with 
 greater affection. I wish I could have seen him in his last sickness. 
 Had I known he was to be taken from us so soon, I think I should have 
 visited Oberlin, that I might have been with him in his last moments 
 and witnessed his triumphant death. My heart is full, I can write no 
 more. May the Lord direct and sustain you in your severe trial 
 and affliction. 
 
 Respectfully, your brother in Christ, 
 
 Daniel P. Cilley. 
 
 [From a Congregationalist lady, formerly of Oberlin.] 
 
 Lawrence, Van Buren Co. Mich., Jan. 18, 1846. 
 My dear sister Marks : — Brother J , a graduate of Oberlin In- 
 stitute, informed me that he had heard through the Evangelist of your 
 dear husband's death. This was indeed painful intelligence to us. My 
 husband was deeply affected as well as myself. Brother Marks 
 was very dear to us. We have loved to review the pleasant sea- 
 sons spent with him, and dwell upon the wholesome admonition and 
 sweet counsel we have often received from his lips. But, although 
 we were deeply grieved to hear that our dear sister was left with- 
 out a companion in this vale of tears, still we could but rejoice that 
 our brother was at rest. He has lived a life of toil, of pain, and 
 suffering. He has been a means, in his Master's hand, of winning 
 many souls to Christ, and who shall say that in taking him hence, 
 and laying him low in the tomb, God hath not done all things well. 
 ***** Husband has just returned from the sanctuary, 
 says there was no preaching, and as one of our neighbors had re- 
 ceived the Morning Star containing the account of your dear com- 
 panion's death, they proposed that husband should read brother 
 Finney's sermon and brother Marks' farewell address. He said 
 he tried to do so, but was so much affected that he could only read 
 brother Finney's sermon, and a part of the extracts. There are 
 several here who have heard brother Marks preach, and it was, no 
 doubt, more interesting to them than any thing else would have 
 been. 
 
DAVID MARKS. 505 
 
 It must have been a very interesting sight to see your husband 
 triumphing so gloriously in the arms of death. Surely, my dear 
 sister, you have abundant reason to rejoice that in his sickness and 
 death, God was so greatly glorified. I have, in imagination, pic- 
 tured to myself the trying hour when he departed, and it has seem- 
 ed to me, that it must have been a scene well worthy the atten- 
 tion of angels, and one upon which Christians could gaze with 
 great dehght. Truly, in life and death he glorified his Heavenly 
 Father, and we should not wish him here to suffer again. Still I 
 know you must feel his loss very deeply. You have so long had 
 such anxious care for him, and formed all your plans of life in ref- 
 erence to him, that I am sure you must miss him every where. 
 ****** But thus it is, our dear Heav- 
 enly Father cuts asunder one tie after another that unites our af- 
 fections to earth, until at last we feel that verily this is not our 
 abiding house, and here is no rest. ***** 
 Your truly affectionate sister, 
 
 O. Thompson. 
 
 (From the pastor of th* Free-will Baptist church in Ridgeway, N. Y.] 
 
 January 20, 1846. 
 Afflicted sister : — Your letter addressed to me, dictated by your 
 husband, our dear brother, in his last illness, did not come to hand 
 imtil we received the sad news of his death. * * * * 
 The untiring efforts of our much esteemed and lamented brother 
 Marks in the cause of God, and his devotion to the interests of our 
 denomination, are too well known, and too generally acknowledged, 
 to need comment by myself. I read with deep interest, the ac- 
 count of his last illness and his triumphant death, and while I could 
 but weep for departed worth, I felt stimulated to new vigor in the 
 cause of God. I read his address delivered to the students and 
 people at Oberlin to my congregation. It is needless to say it was 
 listened to with deep interest. * * * * May 
 
 you be sustained in your deep affliction. 
 
 With due respect, your brother, 
 
 H. Oilman. 
 
 [From the wife of Elder P. W. Belknap.] 
 
 Boston, N. Y. Feb. 10, 1846. 
 My dear afflicted sister Marks: — ' It is all over ! It is past !' 
 how these words thrilled and vibrated through my whole soul, as 
 my dear husband tremblingly opened and hastily read from your 
 affecting letter. I anticipated the sequel. I knew the arrow had 
 flown, and the spirit of your much loved husband was gone ! gone ! 
 gone ! I had feared this might be the next intelligence we should 
 . have, yet I was unprepared to receive it. I had anxiously hoped 
 
506 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 that the severing blow might a little longer be withheld, and 
 your dear companion spared to comfort you, and bless our beloved 
 Zion. But, my dear sister, it is God who has done it, and in the 
 glorious and triumphant death of your ' now angel husband,' how 
 much of his salvation has been exhibited. O, I praise God, that 
 you have been enabled to realize it, and notwithstanding the inde- 
 scribable loneliness which ever and anon sweeps over your smitten 
 heart, I trust you still prove God's grace sufficient for you. Not a 
 hair of your head can fall without his notice. O how safe to trust 
 in such an Almighty arm! Precious resting place ! Mr. Belknap 
 received your mournful letter the Saturday after it was written. He 
 appeared very solemn, but did not inform me of it till after sup- 
 per, when he opened and read. We had company. Our feelings 
 you can faintly imagine. Sighs and tears flowed profusely. And 
 then that memorable Star that came to us in robes of widowhood ! 
 O what feelings it awakened ! Mr. Belknap said he had been 
 looking for it, and thought he was prepared to receive it — yet 
 when it came to hand, his feelings were indescribable and almost 
 uncontrollable. He endeavored to make use of it for the good of his 
 weeping flock, some of whom were brought into the fold through 
 the faithful labors of your companion. O the awful grandeur of 
 that solemn moment, in which, from your own arms, your earthly 
 all was yielded back into the arms of the Giver. Doubtless 
 God and angels admired, as the still dark wave bore him away to 
 the other side of Jordan. Often in my fancy have I traced your 
 quiet step fmm one apartment to another of your peaceful yet 
 lonely abode, and heard the suppressed sigh, as you saw — here, his 
 long loved library filled with marks from his own pencil as emphat- 
 ic sentences caught his penetrating eye — there, a garment left on- 
 ly to tell, ' He is gone !' — yonder, his table spread with valuable 
 papers, filed and bound with his own hand, together with his sta- 
 tionery, invaluable letters to yourself, &c., all mournfully respond- 
 ing, * He is not here !' O J seem even now to hear his melting 
 strains, as he prayed for us when we last visited you. Shall I 
 never again hear his mild voice ? But forgive, sister, I did not 
 mean to make your full heart bleed afresh. Hark ! I hear a voice 
 from the Lord, saying : * Write, blessed are the dead which die in 
 the Lord from henceforth ; Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may 
 rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.' Your * an- 
 gel husband' rests ! — ^but his works follow him. Mr. Belknap, a 
 few days since, followed one of his brothers to the grave, who was 
 converted through your husband's labors, when a lone youth he 
 was travelling in western New York, warning sinners to flee the 
 wrath to come. Methinks as his spirit entered glory, another star 
 is added to your sainted husband's crown, while seraphs sing, 
 
DAVID MAJIKS. 607 
 
 * Their works do follow them.' And does his work now cease ? 
 No. It goes on, and will continue to go on, widening and deep- 
 ening, shedding a hallowed influence upon each successive genera- 
 tion to the latest period of time, while he continues to shine as a 
 magnificent star forever and ever. And do you not, my dear sis- 
 ter, feel that even now he may be doing, as he desired, the work 
 of a guardian angel, ministering unto you in lone widowhood? 
 To deprive me of the belief that I enjoy this boon of love, would 
 be to deprive me of one of the most soothing cordials (aside from 
 the smiles of my Heavenly Father) that has ever been adminis- 
 tered to me, since the angel of death commenced his desolations 
 among my choice ones. Often, when afflicted, have I seemed to 
 hear their sweet voices, saying, ' Sister, daughter, do not weep ! 
 life's night will soon be past, and then we'll welcome your spirit to 
 the home of the blessed.' 
 
 I have read your letter again and again to those who have call- 
 ed. The stranger has wept, while the conviction of the reality of 
 the Christian's hope, and its supporting power under such a be- 
 reavement, has evidently fastened upon his mind. * * * 
 Your friends, from New England to the far west, are very numer- 
 ous, and they will not, cannot forget you. No, no, so long as one 
 of our denomination remains, the labors of your departed husband 
 will be held in sacred remembrance. ***** 
 Your welfare, dear sister, interests our deepest sympathies. Per- 
 mit me again to say, don't yield to despondency. Farewell. 
 Your ever affectionate and sympathizing sister, 
 
 C. A. Belknap. 
 
 [Prom Miss Emily A. F. Winsor, R. I.] 
 
 Greenville, Feb. 18, 1846. 
 My dear sister : — The press announces your severe bereave- 
 ment, and though I know you have all the consolation that one 
 could have who had lost a friend, still your loss is great. But great 
 as is this loss to you and all Elder Marks' immediate family, it is 
 greater to a dying world ; and for this reason I particularly mourn 
 his departure. On the morning of the 7th inst., my dear mother 
 communicated the news of your husband's death — much overcome. 
 It was to her almost insupportable. He had not, I presume, a 
 warmer friend, than my mother. She asked, * Was he not the 
 most remarkable man you ever knew ?' I can truly answer, ' Yes,' 
 and repeat in my grand-father's words, [Judge Foster. Ed.] ' Elder 
 Marks' Journal was the most remarkable Jouniall ever read.' My 
 brother William, though a little boy, read it aloud to the family 
 evening after evening, until he had read the whole. * * 
 
 * * Were I acquainted with Professor Finney, I 
 
508 MliMOIKS OF 
 
 would send to him my heartfelt thanks for his attentions to Elder 
 Marks, one of my dearest Christian friends. I love to dwell upon 
 his memory. I have not a relative deceased, who was so endeared 
 to me, and to whom I owed so much. Emily. 
 
 [Prom EMer Joseph B. Davis.] 
 
 Jamaica Plains, April 20, 1846. 
 
 Dear sister in Christ : — The storm has passed — the trial is over 
 —the active, energetic spirit of your husband, our beloved brother, 
 and God's faithful servant, has finished its earthly course, accom- 
 plished its work and entered into rest. "We are sorry for you, we 
 mourn for our denomination, and the world, that death's dark cloud 
 should blot out his full-orbed sun of usefulness in its glorious noon- 
 day, from our dark world. But we are glad that death could neith- 
 er darken nor obscure those brilliant and glorious rays, which shone 
 forth with such heavenly splendor, in his last clear and peaceful 
 moments — rays, which even now gild our moral heavens, and which 
 must continue to shine while the church exists or the world stands. 
 He is dead, yet speaketh — gone, yet here — although in heaven, he 
 lives and works among us. He indeed was a peculiar man, sent 
 to a peculiar people, in a peculiar time, to accomplish a peculiar 
 work. He has done it in haste, and gone, and left us gazing after 
 him. 
 
 Your husband possessed a strong, deep, clear, ori^nal, well cul- 
 tivated mind, and most severely disciplined ; cultivated and disci- 
 plined alone for the cause of Christ, in which he was always over- 
 active. His style, arrangement, and manner of delivery, were pe- 
 culiarly his own. His easy unaffected manners, always accompan- 
 ied with great simplicity, and his warm gushing heart, overflowing 
 with kind feelings, could never fail to secure the love of those 
 blessed with his society. His time, talents, and all his energies, 
 were laid upon the altar of his God, and he was most emphatically 
 wedded to the people among whom God sent him to labor. With 
 them he identified himself and his earthly all. * * * * 
 
 Your brother in Christ, J. B. Davis. 
 
 [From the President of Oberllii Collegiate Institute, to a friend in Hartford, Ct.] 
 
 * * * * "I will give you a few facts pertaining to the 
 character of Elder Marks, in the estimation, not only of his own, 
 but of other denominations of Christians. 1. His natural talents 
 were altogether above the ordinary stamp. This is evinced by the 
 fact that, though he commenced his ministry when very young, 
 and with little education, he at once acquired a commanding in- 
 fluence as a preacher and as a man, which influence continued to 
 mcrease till the close of his ministry. 2. In labors in the cause of 
 Christ, he was more abundant than any man I ever knew. 3. In 
 the midst of the most arduous and unremitted labors, he was a pre- 
 
DA.VID MARKS. 509 
 
 eminently studious man. Even when walking or riding, he had 
 some useful book or publication in hand, which he was continuously 
 reading, and few I believe could give a better account of what they 
 had been reading than he. No hour with him, during his waking 
 moments, was idly spent. 4. In respect to his Christian character, 
 its prominent features were pure integrity, benevolence, self-forget- 
 ful devotion to doing good, and an enlarged and tender philanthro- 
 py. I should mention other characteristics did my space permit. 
 Sure I am, that the above is not an overdrawn picture. Such 
 would be the verdict of all the friends of our common Lord of every 
 name who knew Elder Marks. His works will follow him, and 
 his Memoirs, I doubt not, descend as a sweet savor to distant gen- 
 erations. 
 
 Yours with much esteem, A. Mahan. 
 
 The following Resolutions have passed by different Associations 
 of Churches, 
 
 [Exeter quarterly meeting, in the state of Maine, at its January session, 1846.] 
 
 " Resolved^ That the labors, life, and devotion of the late Elder 
 David Marks, to promote the interests of our beloved Zion, and 
 the cause of God generally, and his triumphant death, should 
 stimulate us, as a people, to devote our lives, with all we have and 
 are, to the cause of God, and should strengthen our confidence in 
 the religion of Jesus Christ, as being an antidote for all the ills of 
 this inconstant life, affording support to the afflicted, sustaining the 
 dying, and preparing the soul for immortal glory beyond this vale 
 of tears." 
 
 [London quarterly meeting, Upper Canada, at its January session, 1846.] 
 
 " Resolved, That this Conference deeply sympathize with the 
 bereaved widow and the Free-will Baptist connexion in the loss 
 they have sustained by the death of our brother, Elder Marks." 
 
 [Geauga quarterly meeting, Oliio, at its February session, 1846.] 
 
 " Resolved, That we deeply feel the loss we have sustained in 
 our denomination by the death of our dear brother. Elder David 
 Marks, and feel in our hearts to sympathize with our dear sister in 
 the loss of her husband. And we feel called upon, by this provi- 
 dence, to consecrate ourselves anew to the cause of God, and seek 
 that holiness of heart that rendered him an efficient laborer, and 
 carried him triumphantly over the Jordan of death." 
 
 [New Hampsliire yearly meeting, at its June session, 1846.] 
 
 " Whereas, since we last met in yearly meeting, we have been 
 called to record the death of our late beloved brother, Elder David 
 Marks, who has labored much for our denomination, and more in 
 this yearly meeting than any other excepting the Holland Purchase, 
 Therefore, 
 43* 
 
^10 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 Besolved, That in his death the connexion has sustained a great 
 and painful loss. 
 
 Resolved, That we are thankful for the efforts now being made 
 for publishing the Memoirs of brother Marks, that we may be fa- 
 vored with his wisdom and experience; and are happy, to set^ 
 the subscription for that work so large and still increasing." 
 
 From the Morning Star. 
 To the Memory of Elder David Marks* 
 
 Alas ! alas ! and can it be, that thou art with the dead I 
 That thou, from all v/ho loved thee here, hast like a vision fled f 
 Ah ! little deemed we that so soon, the shadows of the tomb 
 Should shroud thy glorious noon-day sun in everlasting gloom — 
 That thou in life's high prime shouldst fall, as a tempest-riven tree,. 
 Ah ! little deemed we that so soon the grave would shelter thee ! 
 
 Ere, in thy sky the golden tints of morning all were dead, 
 
 Or from thy path, its balmy dew or fragrant breath had fled, 
 
 Thou, with a willing heart didst turn, from earthly snares away, 
 
 And on the altar of thy God, thyself an oflfering lay ; 
 
 And like the Hebrew prophet, thou didst early learn to know 
 
 Jehovah's voice, though it were heard in whispers soft and low. 
 
 'Tis but as yesterday, we saw thy kindled brow and eye. 
 As thou, with steady hand, did'st bear the gospel banner high ; 
 And on the stormy battle-field, when Zion's foes were near, 
 Wert cheering on the scattered hosts, — thy cheek unblanched with 
 
 fear; 
 For thou, with heaven- wrought panoply, did'st arm thee for the strife. 
 Prepared for Jesus' sake to spend thy honor, and thy life. 
 
 How often has thy warning voice been here among us heard ; 
 And by thy thrilling eloquence, our spirits deeply stirred ! — 
 Ay, round our hearths and o'er our hills thy heavenly words have 
 
 rung. 
 And many a listening multitude have on thy accents hung ; 
 And in our hearts, like holy fire, thy fervent thoughts have burned, 
 — They were not of the earth, and hence they have to heaven returned, 
 
 God called thee mid thy faithful toil to lay thine armor by, 
 
 And ceasing from thy earthly work, to join the hosts on high ; 
 
 And mid thy dying strife, a strain of holy triumph rose, 
 
 As when to seek his happy home, a care-worn exile goes ; 
 
 For light, from that celestial world, was o'er thy spirit shed. 
 
 And angels round thy humble couch their glittering pinions spread . 
 
 No more, no more, the fainting frame the restless spirit chains. 
 Nor night, nor sleep, from its high work, thy angel wing detains — 
 Thou art amid the hosts who bow around Jehovah's throne. 
 Rejoicing to obey His will, and make His glories known ; 
 
DAVID MARKS. 611 
 
 And loud thy rapturous songs arise amid the holy choir, 
 
 For even here, like his of old, thy lips were touched with fire. 
 
 Farewell ! we know that thou art hlest, and yet our tears will flow, 
 For Zion's sake we hoped that thou wouldst longer dwell below ! 
 Love casts its offerings on the sod, which now doth cover thee ; 
 But faith, with joyous eye, looks up thy angel form to see ; 
 And hope illumes with holy light thy mansion in the dust, 
 And waits, till from its cold embrace, immortal life shall burst. 
 
 V. G. R. 
 
 From the Oberlin Evangelist. 
 
 On the Death of Elder Marks. 
 
 Haste ! angels have called thee, away to thy home ! 
 We may not detain thee, the Spirit says " Come, 
 Come home, wearied spirit, thy works are all done, 
 Thy task is accomplished, thy victory won." 
 
 'Tis surely the music of heaven's own choir 
 That has lit up thy soul with undying fire ; 
 The harps of the seraphs have struck on thine ear. 
 And waked a response in thy bosom e'en here. 
 
 'Twas the love of thy Savior that sent thee to weep 
 
 O'er the M^oes of a world long buried in sleep ; 
 
 It sent thee to labor, forbade thee to rest, 
 
 Chased sleep from thine eyes; and repose from thy breast. 
 
 It sent thee to weep o'er the young and the gay. 
 And to win back the lovely from death's beaten way ; 
 It taught thee to watch and to mourn over sin. 
 Till the sad heart grew faint, and the wearied eye dim. 
 
 And thy spirit with joy took its heavenward way. 
 But a sweet smile it left on its mansion of clay, 
 And the wings of bright angels that still lingered there, 
 Gently brushed from thy brow every vestige of care. 
 
 Farewell, then, 'tis meet that the toil-worn should rest, 
 Who have labored and prayed that a world might be blest ; 
 In thy crown of rejoicing gleams many a gem. 
 And the jewels that shine there shall time never dim. 
 
 Full many a spirit hath welcomed thee there 
 Thou hast labored and toiled for, and wept over, here ; 
 How joyful that meeting — Ah, well may the song 
 Burst warm from the bosom of that holy throng. 
 
 And well may we smile o'er thy perishing clay. 
 And rejoice that thy spirit so soon passed away : 
 Thou hast gone 'mong the holy, the perfect, to dwell. 
 Thou hast gone — and we bid thee a joyful farewell. 
 
 M. R. McB. 
 Oberlin, December, 1845. 
 
512 . MEMOIRS OF 
 
 CONCLUDING REMARKS. 
 
 Although the distinctive features in the character of Mr. Marks 
 standout with prominence upon the surface of the preceding history, 
 still there are a few incidents not introduced into the body of the work, 
 which perhaps present those distinctive features in a still bolder light. 
 
 One distinguishing characteristic, as has been already seen, was his 
 untiring industry. Perhaps no man ever lived who set a greater 
 value upon his time. Seldom, if ever, could he take up the lamen- 
 tation, " I have lost a day !" if indeed he could say, " I have lost 
 an hour !" The following incidents will illustrate this point, and 
 also exemplify his particularity in the most trivial things which 
 infringed upon his moments. On one occasion, a few months be- 
 fore his death, an inmate of his house blew out his candle without 
 saturating the wick with the tallow, as was his custom in order to 
 make it ignite more readily. The next morning, he said to tlie in- 
 dividual, very solemnly, " Do you know that you have robbed me 
 of one minute of my precious time ?" " How," was the response. 
 " It took me one minute longer than usual to light my candle, in 
 consequence of the manner in which you extinguished it last night." 
 Having, in early life, severely tasked and disciplined his mind by 
 study and intense thinking in the midst of company, he suffered lit- 
 tle annoyance from calls, even when pressed with labor. After 
 explaining the importance of his engagements, to those who called, 
 and apologizing for his seeming want of attention, he would request 
 them to converse just as they would if he were disengaged. He 
 would then resume his wanting or reading, and at the same time 
 carry on his share of the conversation. From his eminently social 
 disposition, he enjoyed society with the keenest relish, but he nev- 
 er suffered himself to indulge in visits to his friends, only so far as 
 he thought he could promote their spiritual interests. When urg- 
 ed to spend more time with them, he would say to them, if they 
 were Christians, " Soon we shall have an eternity to visit in." As 
 he seldom laid aside his books when riding, on account of a storm, 
 they would often get injured ; and if any one suggested that it was 
 not good economy to use books thus, he would reply by giving his 
 valuation in money of one, two, or more hours' study, and then the 
 cost of the book, and according to his estimate, the pecuniary ad- 
 vantage was much in his favor. His reading was always of the 
 solid kind. He had no moments to waste on the ephemeral pro- 
 ductions of the press. He remarked not long before his death, 
 that he had never read a novel. Life with him was too serious to 
 waste on such trifles. His mind, trained to such activity in his 
 waking moments, was often in his hours of sleep occupied with the 
 
DAVID MARKS. 513 
 
 same momentous subjects, and he would pray and preach for a long 
 time, frequently awaking all in the house. 
 
 He was emphatically a happy man, even in his most adverse cir- 
 cumstances. Few ever enjoyed life better than he. He lived in 
 the sunshine — in an atmosphere of cheerfulness and joy, and though 
 at times he was weighed down with an oppressive sense of his re- 
 sponsibilities, yet these seasons were but as " passing clouds, shad- 
 ing a path usually bright." This was doubtless owing in part to a 
 very happy natural temperament, but it should be mainly attributed 
 to his strong confidence in God. His firm, heartfelt assurance of 
 a state of eternal blessedness for the righteous, scattered joy and 
 gladness in his pathway, while it enabled him to look upon the 
 trials of this brief life as of little moment. The religion of the 
 Bible was to him, as he expressed it, a " tangible reality," absorb- 
 ing all other claims and filhng the whole sphere of his vision. He 
 thought, planned, prayed, studied, and labored, as if he had no inter- 
 est separate from the interest of the Redeemer's kingdom, and 
 whenever matters relating to its success were presented, " his own 
 things" were the last and least w^hich occupied his thoughts. 
 
 Another very prominent feature of his character was his cruci- 
 fixion to the world. Indeed, he seemed to live so much above it, 
 as to lose all desire for worldly fame or honor. Especially was 
 this true of him during the last years of his life. Envy was a pas- 
 sion that had no resting place in his bosom. If good could be ac- 
 complished, he cared little who had the honor. If others could be 
 more useful than himself, he rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Though 
 frank and open almost to a fault, yet knowing a little " what was in 
 man" — ^that eminence exposed its possessor to the envy and jeal- 
 ousy of little minds — he frequently sought privacy in the execution 
 of his plans for doing good, persuading others to take the lead, and 
 charging them, to use his own language, not to let it be suspected 
 that the " hand of Joab" was there. In this manner he effected 
 much for God and his generation, which will remain unknown till 
 the judgment. He feared and dreaded the praise of men, not that 
 he did not naturally love it, but he trembled, lest it might tempt 
 him to seek worldly honor. Against this, he watched, and strug- 
 gled, and prayed. The following incident is a specimen of the 
 care with which he guarded his heart. During the fourth session 
 of the General Conference in Rhode Island, 1830,- he preached a 
 sermon much to the acceptance of the audience, and which was 
 blessed to the conversion of several souls. Soon after the close of 
 the meeting, sorrow was depicted on his countenance, and he has- 
 tened to be alone. A friend inquired the cause of his sadness. 
 
 He replied, mournfully, " Brother [a minister of considerable 
 
 influence] has been talking to me just like satan." " What has he 
 
514 MEMOIRS OF 
 
 said ?" the friend inquired. " As I was coming out of the church, 
 he said to me, ' Brother Marks, you have preached well to-day,' 
 and satan had just told me the same." He never seemed elated 
 by Success. Indeed, his. greatest seasons of humiliation generally 
 followed his most successful efforts. 
 
 In his preaching, he was remarkably affectionate and pathetic. 
 After portraying the dreadful condition of the impenitent, his 
 own feelings would often become almost uncontrollable, tears would 
 trickle down his face, and frequently he would kneel in the midst 
 of his sermon, and pour out in prayer the gushing desires of his 
 heart for the salvation of his hearers. The effect produced was 
 often like an electric shock. At other times, while urging his ap- 
 peals to the consciences of sinners, he would descend from the desk, 
 as though he thought if he were nearer the people, the truths he 
 was urging would find more access to their hearts. 
 
 Notwithstanding tenderness was a prominent characteristic of 
 his preaching and of his int-ercourse with society, yet he was bold 
 and fearless in his reproofs of sin, and when he thought the occa- 
 sion demanded, he was very severe. About two years previous to 
 his death, he said to his companion, on returning from Pittsfield, (a 
 town adjacent to Oberlin,) " To-day, for the first time in my life, I 
 told a man he lied." She replied, " You were not so abrupt as to 
 use that language ?" " Yes, I said in so many words, ' You lie.' I 
 said it, because he did lie, and faithfulness to his soul made it my 
 duty to tell him so. I was at the house of brother J — — s. A 
 man was present who went on for some time with a tirade of false- 
 hoods about Oberlin. At length, he said that amalgamation with 
 the colored people prevailed very extensively. I then asked him 
 if he knew his statement to be true. He said, *Yes, I have often 
 been in Oberlin, and there is hardly a child to be seen in the street 
 that is not as red as a copper cent.' I fixed my eye upon him for 
 a moment, and then, in a perfectly calm and kind manner, said to 
 him, Sir, you lie, and you know you do. I live in Oberlin, and 
 there has never been a case of marriage there between the white 
 and colored people. The man seemed thunder-struck. I suppos- 
 ed that he was an infidel, or some one who had no regard for his 
 reputation as a man of truth, but, to my surprise, I afterwards 
 learned that he was a professor of religion." 
 
 In the domestic virtues, Mr. Marks eminently excelled. He was 
 emphatically, " The light and the joy of his house." As a son, he was 
 a pattern of filial piety. No mother was ever more tenderly be- 
 loved by a child than was the mother of Mr. Marks. Though she 
 had long lain in the gi-ave, yet his love for her was " fresh and fra- 
 grant to the last." She was indeed worthy of his affection, and 
 though she lived in obscurity, she was one of that noble band of 
 
DAVID MARKS. 5l5 
 
 mothers, whose piety and maternal government have made them 
 benefactors of the world. Few days of his life ever passed in 
 which he did not allude to her ; and when he was crossing death's 
 dark river, his eye shone with unwonted lustre, as he spoke of soon 
 seeing his dear mother. It has been said that " Trifles, lighter 
 than straws, are levers in the building up of character." Mr. Marks 
 ascribed to the decision and firmness of his mother on one occasion, 
 an influence which decided his future course. When he was about 
 ten years of age, he was very anxious to visit a certain place, and 
 for several days before he ventured to ask pel-mission, . exerted 
 himself in every possible way to please his mother, hoping thereby 
 to secure her assent. But his request was denied. He was great- 
 ly disappointed, and could not see the reasonableness of her refusal. 
 Though always trained to habits of implicit obedience, yet in this 
 instance, he was so intent on the gratification of his wishes, that he 
 persuaded himself to think that she was wrong, and he resolved to 
 make the desired visit. He knew his mother would punish him, 
 yet he thought she was so tender-hearted that she would not be se- 
 vere, and lie would rather endure some chastening than not enjoy 
 his anticipated pleasure. He began to make preparation. His 
 mother inquired with surprise, " Where are you going ?" He told 
 her. " But," she replied, " I said to you that you could not go." 
 " I know you did," he calmly answered, " but I think it is my duty 
 to go." " Indeed," said she, " it is then my duty to punish you till 
 you change your views." He persisted in his course. Without 
 any further reasoning, she used the rod. For a time he bore it 
 without complaint, thinking the tenderness of her heart would un- 
 nerve her, but the stripes becoming more and more severe, he was 
 obliged to cry out for pain. He then thought he would frighten 
 her, and falling on the ground, groaned out, " Mother, you will kill 
 me." She replied, " Such a rebellious child ought to die. It is 
 written in the law of Moses, that a stubborn and rebellious son that 
 will not obey the voice of his mother should be stoned to death." 
 [Deut. 21:18 — 21.] He now began to fear he should die, when 
 the thought of meeting God in the very act of disobeying the com- 
 mand to honor his parents, filled him with unutterable horror, and 
 he sobbed out, " O mother, can you forgive your wicked son ? I 
 will submit." Her strength failed, and bursting into tears, she 
 said, " O my son ! my son ! never did I expect such a trial as 
 this from you. You don't know what suffering you have caused 
 me : but I knew that you were ruined if I did not subdue you." 
 Her words increased his distress a hundred fold. His broken heart 
 was filled with anguish, and a sense of his sinfulness never left him 
 till he gave himself to God. In after years, and indeed, until the 
 
516 MEMOIRS OP DAVID MARKS. 
 
 close of his life, he seldom ever related this circumstance without 
 shedding bitter tears. 
 
 He was ever much interested in the simplicity and innocence of 
 children, and was always a great favorite with the children of fam- 
 ilies where, in his travels,'he was accustomed to call. After win- 
 ning their confidence, he would labor in the most affectionate man- 
 ner to impress their minds with a sense of their duty to God, and 
 many of them have in consequence been converted. He used to 
 say, he loved little children, because Jesus said, " Of such is the 
 kingdom of heaven." 
 
 God has said, " Them that honor me, I will honor." Here lies 
 the secret of Mr. Marks' influence and success. He honored God 
 by his simple faith, and reliance on his word, and God verified his 
 promise, not only through his whole life, but in permitting him, in 
 the hour of his dissolution, to bear a glorious testimony to the real- 
 ity of the Christian's hope. It may be truly said of him, in the 
 beautiful language of Tupper, that, 
 
 " In childhood, he loved holiness and drank from that fountain-head of peace ; 
 
 Wisdom took him for her scholar, guiding his steps in purity ; 
 
 He lived unpolluted by the world, and his young heart hated sin; 
 
 His friends were the excellent among men, and the bands of their friendship were 
 
 strong. 
 His house was the palace of peace, for the Prince of peace was there. 
 Thus did he walk in happiness, while 
 
 The light of affection sunned his heart, and the tear of the grateful bedewed his feel. 
 He put his hand with constancy to good, and angels knew him as a brother, 
 While the busy satellites of evil trembled, as at God's ally. 
 He used his goods as a wise steward, making him friends for futurity ; 
 He bent his learning to religion, and religion was with him to the last : 
 And after many days, when the time of his release was come, 
 I longed for a congregated world to behold that dying saint. 
 As the aloe is green and well-liking to the last summer of its age, 
 And then hangeth out its golden bells to mingle glory with corruption ; 
 As a meteor travelleth in splendor, but bursteth in dazzling light, 
 Such was his end : his death was the sun at its setting." 
 
YB 
 
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 JViS70207 
 
 
 THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY