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A MEMOIR
DANIEL SAFFORD,
BY HIS WIFE.
'FATHER, SON, AND HOLY O HOST, H A LL E LU J AH ! "
fageSCS.
PUBLISHED BY THE
AMERICAN TRACT SOCIETY,
28 CORNIIILL, BOSTON.
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 18C1, by the
AMERICAN TRACT SOCIKTY,
In the Clerk's Office of the District Couituf the District of Massachusetts.
ELECTROTYPE!) AT THE
BOSTON STEREOTYPE FOUNDRY.
Printed by
OEO. C. HAND It AVEUV, 3 COKNI11LL, BOSTO7*.
PREFACE.
SOON after the death of Mr. Safford, an earnest desire was
expressed by various persons that a portraiture of his life
might be drawn, which should be grateful to his friends, and
not without benefit to the public. Among other expressions
of this desire was the following, received from two of the pas-
tors of Boston, who had known him long and intimately * :
" Deacon Safford's character and influeugp svere the sub-
ject of some interesting conversation at the pastors' meeting
yesterday ; and we were requested to see those immediately
connected and interested, and urge the preparation of a tran-
script of the life of that good man, as one whose example is
not above the comprehension of all ; as one which we need
to have repeated in thousands of instances in our churches.
It seems to us that the blessed Spirit might use it to fill a want
among us, for which the churches would long be grateful."
One who had been associated with him in office, in the
church, and elsewhere,t also wrote,
"Do let us have a description of our excellent friend,
whose benignant smile and cordial grasp we shall never for-
get, that will perpetuate his example, und do as much good,
we may hope, as he did while on earth, leading multitudes to
seek and obtain his genial piety and large-hearted benev-
olence."
It is with great diffidence, and after much persuasion, that
the writer has undertaken to meet the desires thus expressed.
The only ability she can claim for this attempt is a vivid
recollection of incidents, and the inexpressible interest with
which she cherishes the impressions of his life and character,
received during twenty-eight years of his acquaintance, first
as a sister-in-law, and afterward in the nearest of all earthly
relations. The most that she dares to undertake is a simple
narrative, in unadorned language ; which, she ventures to
* Drs. Blagdcn and Adams. f Henry Hill, Esq.
4 PREFACE.
hope, may escape unfriendly criticism if it fail to show a lit-
erary excellence to which she does not aspire, and for which
experience has not qualified her.
Indulgence is asked for the use of the third person in those
parts where the writer is necessarily introduced into the nar-
rative.
It has been her care to admit no statement of fact which
she has not the fullest reason to believe to be strictly true.
In respect to the early portion of Mr. Safford's life, and
many transactions of later periods, which came not within
her personal knowledge, she has given the facts as narrated
to her by himself. So, likewise, when describing events in
the history of other persons, she has invariably recorded them
as they were detailed to her by the persons themselves, or by
others who were believed to be acquainted with the facts.
She can be responsible for the statements in such cases no
further than this.
At the request of the publishers, permission has been given
them to insert in the Appendix a more particular account of
Mr. Safford's property and charities. This consent has been
granted only in the hope that others may thereby be stimulated
to a more enlarged beneficence, and a richer experience of
the privilege of honoring the Lord with their substance.
It has been far from the aim of the writer, in preparing a
Memoir of her husband, to hold him up to view as a faultless
character. Could the departed spirit return to read these
pages, nothing would be more abhorrent to his feelings than
this. He well knew his imperfections, and bewailed them
daily before the Lord. Nor has it been her intention to claim
for him the sole, or even chief, credit for whatever was ac-
complished by him, in connection with others, for the cause
of Christ. It was ever his delight to speak in warm com-
mendation of what others did ; and if his efforts appear more
prominent in this narrative, it is only because the task she had
undertaken required her to speak of him, rather than them.
It is upon the aid and blessing of the Holy Spirit, that the
writer humbly relies for the usefulness of this Memoir. His
grace alone made Mr. Safford what he was ; and her prayer
is, that He will still use the recorded life and character of his
servant as he condescended to employ his active life on earth .
for the promotion of his own glory, and the advancement
of the cause of the Redeemer. A. E. S.
BOSTON, April, 1861.
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER I.
' CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH.
Birth. Parentage. The Homestead. Domestic Scenes. The Or-
chard. The Grandmother. School. Labors on the Farm. The
Transgression and Punishment. Mr. Safford's Brothers
CHAPTER II.
EARLY MANHOOD.
Apprenticeship. Fidelity therein. Religious Experience. Profession
ef Religion. Goes to Boston. Kilters into Business in the City.
Habits of Industry and Economy. Sketch of his Early History,
written by Himself. 17
CHAPTER III.
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS.
Death of his elder Brother and Father. Marriage. Housekeeping.
Apprentices. Correspondence with his Brother Ephraim. Death of
his Brother David. Receives his Children into his own Family.
Little Susan. Her sudden Death. Letters. Views of Dress.
Death of his Brother Ephraim. Sickness and Death of Mrs. Safford.
Impaired Health 29
CHAPTER IV.
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES.
First large charitable Donation. Amount of his Property in 1W>.
Increase of his Business. His Horse " Blackie." llules of the
Workshop. Efforts to promote Temperance among his Men. In-
terest in their Spiritual Welfare. Narrative of two Individuals.
Description of his Business. Respect for his Calling. Reputation
for Integrity. Self-restraint under Provocation. Skill in hia Work. 47
CHAPTER V.
CONNECTION WITH THE SALEM CHURCH.
Organization of the Church. Chosen Deacon. View of his official
Duties. Love for his Brethren. Attachment to the Pastor, Rev. J.
Kd wards. Kindness shown to his Family 5'J
1* (5)
6 CONTENTS.
CHAPTER VI.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED.
Marriage to Miss Abby Jane Bigelow. Visit to her Parents. Dom-
inie. Mr. SafFord, "the Minister's Friend." Rev. Dr. Cornelius.
Birth of a Son. Death of his Wife. Views of Mourning Apparel.
Extracts from Correspondence 05
CHAPTER VII.
CORRESPONDENCE.
Marries Mrs. Mary S. Boardman. Her Death. Letter* to Mr. and Mrs.
Gale. To Mr. and Mrs. Turner. Death of Mr. Turner. Letter to
Mr. and Mrs. Gale. To his little Son. Encounter with a drunken
Man. Religion in traveling. Letter to Mr. Asa JJigelow. Mr.
Bigelow's Estimate of his Character. Winter Night Ride. His Bi-
ble Class. Anxiety for the Conversion of his Family. Formation
of a Legislative Temperance Society. State Fast. Purchase of a
House. Marriage to Mrs. Turner , 78
CHAPTER VIII.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED.
Reestablishmcnt of domestic Relations. Enjoyment in them. Hospi-
tality. The German Woman. The outcast Child. The Irish Cath-
olic Woman. The Feast for the Poor. Evening Parties for Church
Members. Religious Worship on these Occasions. Arrangements
to promote the Comfort of his Family. The Chaise. Family Wor-
ship. Conversion of ail Irish Domestic 104
CHAPTER IX.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED.
Letters to his Wife. Kicked by a Horse. Enjoyment of Solitude.
Visits to his Partner, Mr. Low. Mutual Regard of the Partners.
Mr. Low's Present of a Cane. Care for his Family. Removal to
Beacon Street. Hospitalities. Mary Lyon. Dr. Edwards. Mis-
sionaries. Letter of Dr. Anderson 117
CHAPTER X.
REVIVAL LABORS.
Removal to Park Street Church. Debt of Salem Church paid. Or-
ganization of the "Central Church," and Rcmovnl thither. Return
to Park Street Church. His Interest in Preaching. Remodeling of
the House of Worship. Labors in the Sabbath School. Interest in
the Young. Preparations for a Revival. Rev. E. N. Kirk invited
to Boston. Manner of his Reception by the Pastors of the City.
Special Meetings. Conversions. Letters to Mr. Kirk. Second Visit
of Mr. Kirk to Boston. Organization of Mount Vernon Church.
Rev. Mr. Aiken's Testimony to Mr. Saflbrd's Character and Useful-
ness 129
CONTENTS. 7
CHAPTER XI.
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH.
Dependence upon God's Blessing 1 . Object sought in the Formation of
the Church. Regard for the Poor. Readiness to yield to the Opin-
ions of his Brethren. The Church Prayer Meetings. Cultivation
of Benevolence. The Two Cent Subscription. Construction of the
Church Edifice. Efforts to render it convenient and pleasant.
Aversion to Display. Social Circles in the Church. Gathering in
the Masses. Labors for the spiritual Growth of the Church. Rela-
tions to his Pastor, as described in a Communication of Mr. Kirk. . 156
CHAPTER XII.
VISIT TO EUROPE.
Appointed Delegate to the World's Evangelical Convention in London.
Accompanied by his Pastor. Sails from Boston. Incidents of the
Voyage. Arrival at Londou. Meetings. Letter to Deacon Palmer.
Journey to Scotland. Kdinburgh. Gl.-isgow. Manchester. Let-
ters from Home. Departure from England. Brighton Paris.
Fontmni-bleau. The River Seine. Brussels. Antwerp. Cologne.
The Rhine and its Cities. M:innhcim. Strasburg. Basle. Lau-
sanne. Geneva. Tour among the Alps. Ch.imouni. Mont Blanc.
Martigny. Lake of Geneva. Journey to Paris. Sickness. Lon-
don. The Evangelical Conference. Dublin. The Giant's Cause-
way. Belfast. Liverpool. Embarkation for Home. Arrival.. . . 172
CHAPTER XIII.
PERSONAL NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID.
Orphan Children. Little Jane. Delight in the Pleasures of Children.
Little Mary. Counsel and Care for the Poor. Story of the West
Indian Family. The Widow and her Boy Testimony of a Lady. . 218
CHAPTER XIV.
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN.
Interest for young Men. The Young Artist. The Bookseller. The
Student. The Clerk. The Prodigal, his History and Death. Res-
olutions recommended. Letters to his Sons. Conversion of his Son
in College. Testimony of a young Man 239
CHAPTER XV.
BUSINESS AND POLITICAL LIFE.
Dissolution of Partnership. Proposal of new Connections. Accept-
ance of them. Characteras a Merchant. Member of the Legislature
of Massachusetts. Affability. Peacemaker 275
CHAPTER XVI.
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES.
Effort!) to gather the Poor into Places of Worship. Elected President
of the City Missionary Society. Deacon Farns worth's Statement.
8
CONTENTS.
How to preserve Health. Extracts from private Journal. "Deacon
Safford's Party." Statement of Deacon Cashing. Member of the
Prudential Committee of the A. B. C. F. M. Kev. Mr. Treat's State-
ment. Director of the House of Industry. Old Ladies' Home, &c. 283
CHATTER XVII.
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH.
Impaired Health. Journey to the Western States. To Canada.
With Mrs. Reid, to Rhode Island. Scsond Voyage to Europe.
Liverpool. Chester. Dublin. Cork. Lakes of Killarney. Bel-
fast. Glasgow. Edinburgh. The Highlands. London. Paris.
Brussels. Aix. The Rhine. Fronkiort. The Salt Minos. Mu-
nich. Through Switzerland to Italy. Milan. Verona. Venice.
Florence. Leghorn. Rome. Naples. Marseilles. Homeward
Voyage 297
CHAPTER XVIII.
EFFORTS IN BEHALF OF MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE
SEMINARY.
Interest in the Cause of Education. Visit to Belchertown. Sugges-
tion of a School for Young Ladies. Consultation with Dr. Edwards.
Visit of Mary Lyon. Tier Plans. Subscribes Five Hundred Dol-
lars in Aid of them. Subsequent Contributions and Efforts for the
Seminary. Letter of one of the Teachers 323
CHAPTER XIX.
SICKNESS AND DEATH.
Chronic Disease of the Heart. Anticipations of Death. Cheerfulness
under them. Sudden Attack of Illness. Purchase of a House.
Repairs and Removal thither. Efforts and Prayers for a Revival.
Second severe Attack. Spiritual Enjoyment. Home Occupations.
Annual Meeting of A. B. C. F. M Marriage of his eldest Son.
Last Visit to Mount Holyoke Seminary. Last Letter. Council of
Physicians. Severe Suffering. Last Prayer Meeting with his Breth-
ren, and Attendance on Public Worship. Conversation in Prospect
of Death. Abounding Comforts. Peace. Directions about his Fu-
neral. &c. Lying at Jesus' Feet. His Work done. Death. Fu-
neral 334
APPENDIX, 373
MEMOIR.
CHAPTER I.
CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH.
Birth. Parentage. The Homestead. Domestic Scenes. The Orchard.
The Grandmother. School. Labors on the Farm. The Transgres-
sion and Punishment. Mr. Safford's Brothers.
DANIEL SAFFORD was born in Hamilton, Essex
County, Massachusetts, October 30, 1792. He was
the youngest of four sons of Samuel and Priscilla Saf-
ford. During his childhood, the parents, an aged and
very godly grandfather and grandmother, the four
sons, and usually one domestic, constituted the family.
Samuel Safford was a substantial farmer, a sensible
and well informed man, whose daily life was strictly
conformed to the principles of the Bible. He man-
aged his worldly affairs with prudence and economy ;
and the wants of his family being simple, they were
enabled to live respectably on a moderate income.
Mr. Safford cherished through life recollections of a
peculiarly sunny childhood. Often would he recount
its incidents, and live again amid its happy scenes.
He could not remember that, as a child, he had been
conscious of but one unsupplied want. He had no
sister ; and when he saw other boys more favored in
this respect, he often said within himself, " Oh, how I
(9)
10 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
do wish I had a sister ! " To this ungratified desire
he attributed in a measure, in later life, his peculiar
affection for his sisters by marriage, whom he always
adopted as his own. This want of his childhood was
partially supplied by a large circle of cousins in the
neighborhood, who were allowed frequently to meet
at their respective homes, and in whose society and
childish sports he was a very hearty and joyous par-
ticipant.
A ride of twenty-five miles in an easterly direction
from Boston brings us to the quiet village of Hamilton.
Passing about two miles beyond this, we turn from the
road into a circuitous wagon track, and are in a few
moments at the old homestead of the family. In this
secluded spot, and this humble dwelling, were culti-
vated those social affections and beautiful moral traits
which distinguished Mr. Safford, and the foundation
laid for his life of uncommon usefulness.
The present occupant of the premises purchased
them of the widowed mother, and lived there one year
before she left them. He is an aged man, but retains
a lively interest in the family history, and delights to
show a visitor the localities of the place. Here he
opens the sitting-room, where Daniel was cared for by
one of the kindest of mothers ; with its old-fashioned
cupboards, one for her best dishes, and the other for
those in common use. In one corner stood the bed
upon which his father died, and which during the sick-
ness had been protected from the air by a bed-spread
suspended before it from two forks fastened in the
ceiling. Above is the chamber where the mother used
every night to put her boys to bed, " tuck them up,"
and then return to busy herself with mending their
CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH. 11
stockings, and other similar labors, homely yet needful,
until a late hour at night, feeling that of all happy
mothers, she was the happiest.
The front door of the house opens upon an orchard
of apple trees, in a remote corner of which is one
that Daniel, when a boy, claimed as his own ; and its
fruit has ever since borne the name of the " Safford
apple." For this fruit he had a peculiar fondness,
always considering it among the best treats he could
offer to his guests; but never finding, as he often
said, any " quite so nice as those which grew in my
father's orchard."
We can almost see him as described to us a
happy, ruddy-faced boy, running about under those
trees, or walking with his little hand clasped in his
grandmother's, between whom and himself, although
she was now very aged and infirm, there existed a
remarkable friendship. She was ever associated with
his earliest and most cherished recollections. He not
only loved, but greatly venerated her. He was accus-
tomed to pay great deference to her opinions. When
the boys at school disputed any thing affirmed by him,
he felt strong if he could reply, " My grandmother
said so." Once a pert lad, in answer to this argument,
exclaimed, " Well, what of that ? Who is your grand-
mother ? " He replied, " My grandmother ! Why,
she knows every thing; mother knows some things,
and father knows more ; but grandmother knows all! "
The respect for the aged, thus early rooted in his heart,
he never lost. It was often exhibited by him in after
life, especially while acting as a director of the Boston
Home for Aged and Indigent Females. In his deep
interest in that institution we recognize the ripened
12 MEMOIR OP DANIEL S AFFORD.
fruit of this early attachment to his venerable grand-
mother.
But notwithstanding his strong affection and respect
for her, he had the feeling that it did not belong to
her to punish him for his faults, regarding her rather
as a companion than a disciplinarian. "When about
three years old, having done something which she
thought merited a chastisement, and anticipating her
intentions, he threw himself on his back upon the
floor, and whirling round and round, and shaking his
hands and feet, laughingly shouted, " Take care,
grandma'am ! take care, grandma'am ! " until she
concluded to give up the case.
It was in a small school house, about a mile from his
father's dwelling, that he received all his school ed-
ucation. Until he was eight years old he attended
there six weeks in the summer, and as many in the
winter. But on arriving at that age, his services
were required on the farm, and his school privileges
were limited to the six weeks in winter. He was even
then a thinker, rather than a student of books; and
was especially interested in his arithmetical problems,
which he often solved mentally when he first awoke in
the morning, before rising, while other boys would be
unable to accomplish this without slate and pencil.
At eight years of age he commenced working stead-
ily all day upon the farm. Though remarkably fond
of play, he was always willing to work. The idea
that he could be useful to his father gave him much
pleasure, and it was never necessary to reprove him
for tardiness, or for stopping to play in working hours.
Before he was able to hoe as fast as the men, his
father allowed him to skip every other hill in order to
CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH. 13
keep up with them ; and he was much delighted when
at length he found he could do this without skipping
any. His ambition was quite satisfied when he one
day overheard his father, in conversation with a neigh-
bor, say of him, " I would as lief have my Daniel to
hoe potatoes or corn as any man I can hire. He will
do as much in a day, and do it as well." As a reward
for his industry and faithfulness, his father one year
gave him a small patch of ground to cultivate for
himself. This he planted witli potatoes. The crop
brought him fifty cents, cash the first money he ever
possessed. Thus he learned the valuable lesson, to
earn before spending.
Being employed to carry milk to market during one
season, in his boyhood, a customer once querulously
said to him, as he was measuring her supply, " How
much water do you think you have put in it ? " He
made no reply, but never carried milk to her again.
He could not deal with a person who entertained a
question of his honesty.
Mr. Safford's father was a man of cheerful disposi-
tion and pleasant manners, a kind and obliging neigh-
bor, and, while very affectionate to his children, not
weakly indulgent. He ruled his own household well,
believing, with Solomon, that " a child left to himself
bringeth his mother to shame, while the rod and
reproof give wisdom." In the training of this son
there was one instance, and but one, in which he
thought it necessary literally to follow the inspired
direction, " Withhold not correction from the child ;
for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall
not die."
There had been what is called " a raising " in the
2
14 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
village, and, as usual, all the men and boys were
assembled on the occasion. According to custom in
those days, they were treated with ardent spirits.
Daniel, who was then about fourteen years old, drank
with the others, not to intoxication, but so as to be
somewhat excited. At the close of the day, instead
of returning home, he was induced, by several older
than himself, to go into the bar room of a neighboring
tavern. There they sat, chatting and amusing them-
selves, until, to his astonishment, lie found that it was
eleven o'clock. He had never before transgressed his
father's commandment forbidding him. to be out late
at night. The offense in this instance was aggravated
by the character of the company and the place. He
knew that his father would be much displeased. His
only hope of escaping the punishment he deserved
was, that, weary with the toils of the day, he might
have retired early, and thus remained ignorant of the
disobedient act. Encouraged bythis thought, he has-
tened home, and opening as gently as possible the out-
side door, into a small entry, in which was the stair-
way leading to his chamber, he closed the door softly,
crept up the stairs, walked on tiptoe to the bed, leaped
in, and said to himself, " Now I am safe." But the
father had not been unmindful of his son. He had
been sitting by the kitchen fire, watching the clock,
hour after hour, with growing anxiety. No sound,
however slight, escaped his wakeful ear. He heard
the stealthy entrance, itself a confession of guilt, and
after a little consideration, followed the transgressor to
his apartment, but gave no intimation of his approach,
until the smart of the rod aroused the slumberer to a
sense of his presence, and of the purport of his visit.
CHILDHOOD AND YOUTH. 15
Although not a word of explanation was uttered,
either before or after the infliction of the punishment,
yet Daniel perfectly understood its meaning, and
recognized its justice. In after life he often blessed
God and his father for the timely correction, consid-
ering it a great mercy that it was administered when
he had taken but one step in the way of transgressors.
No child ever more sincerely loved and respected a
parent than Daniel did his father. A few weeks pre-
vious to his last illness, speaking of him to his wife,
he said, " Oh, I wish you had known my father ; you
certainly would have loved him."
His brothers, David, Samuel, and Ephraim, were all
men of genial temperament and high moral principle.
There were no wranglings or contentions between
them in childhood ; and, as they advanced in years,
nothing occurred to mar their mutual friendship.
Daniel cherished their memories to the last, delighting
to dwell on the interesting characteristics of each, and
the great enjoyment he had had with them. In
speaking of them, he once said, " I did love my broth-
ers very much when we were children together
quite as much as myself, if not more ; and after we
became men, when Ephraim made a good voyage, or
the others succeeded well in business, it made me
quite as happy, and I am inclined to think even more
so, than when I succeeded myself."
Thus, in the language of a friend, " In this mral
home, and amid these healthy influences, at an equal
remove from poverty and from riches, supplied with
food convenient for him, never so full as to deny the
Lord, and never so hungry as to covet another's goods,
Mr. SafFord, during, the first sixteen years of his life,
16 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
laid the foundation for that bodily vigor and impertur-
bable good nature, for that filial reverence and quiet
self-reliance, for that cheerful industry and universal
contentment, that wise economy and modest useful-
ness, which distinguished his manhood, and gave him
eminence among the good."
EARLY MANHOOD. 17
CHAPTER II.
EARLY MANHOOD.
Apprenticeship. Fidelity therein. Religious Experience. Profession of
Religion. Goes to Boston. Enters into Business in the City. Habits
of Industry and Economy. Sketch of his Early History, written by
Himself.
IN the fall of 1808, Daniel left the paternal roof, at
the age of sixteen years, to become an apprentice to
his brother David, who was established in Salem as a
blacksmith. He at once manifested superior mechan-
ical skill, as well as great muscular energy. Although
never much devoted to books, he was very fond of
mathematics, natural philosophy, and astronomy, and
acquired a good practical knowledge of them.
While an apprentice he took pleasure in promoting
his employer's interests as faithfully as if they had
been his own. In after life he but described his own
earlier history, when he said to apprentices, to clerks,
and to his own son, " Make your employer's interests
your own. Aim to be so useful to him that he can
not do without you." So thoroughly did he carry out
this unselfish fidelity, that he not only gave his time
and strength, but exerted his inventive genius also, to
promote the interests of his employer. As an instance,
he succeeded in exactly imitating a screw nut used in
the construction of chaises, which, until that time,
had been imported at a high price. This, and other
2*
18 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPFORD.
v
imitations and inventions of his, sensibly increased the
profits of the business.
The working hours of the day being thus faithfully
employed for his brother, he availed himself of the
privilege afforded him of using the shop and tools, in
his leisure hours, for his own benefit. At the close of
his apprenticeship, the proceeds of this extra labor
amounted to sixty dollars, which constituted his only
capital for commencing business in Boston.
It was in his eighteenth year that Mr. Safford was
first effectually awakened to a concern for his eternal
interests. One night, at a late hour, after having been
in the company of some irreligious young men, the
conviction came home to his reason and conscience,
that he must immediately separate from them, or be
ruined. Their scorn and ridicule were anticipated,
and the question of bearing these, or the wrath of
God, well weighed. Before he went to sleep the mo-
mentous choice was made. Not more decided was
Bunyan's pilgrim, when, with his fingers in his ears,
he fled from the City of Destruction, crying, " Life,
life ! eternal life ! " To that decisive hour he always
looked back with the most solemn interest, regarding
it as the moment of his existence when his destiny
was happily settled for this world and the next. Two
years later he united with the Tabernacle Church in
Salem, under the pastoral care of the Rev. Dr. Samuel
Worcester.
Near the close of the year 1812 Mr. Safford ended
his apprenticeship, and went to Boston. As he could
not afford to ride thither in the stage coach, he deter-
mined to walk. The day for starting came, and with
it a severe December snow storm. Time was too
EARLY MANHOOD. 19
precious to admit of waiting for fair weather. With
that adherence to his purposes which ever marked his
course, he set forth on foot. When well on the way,
he was hailed by a man in a sleigh, who invited him
to ride. Recognizing the voice of an acquaintance,
and thinking a ride would be more comfortable than
his cheerless walk, he accepted the invitation, but
soon found that he was expected to pay dearly for the
favor. His driver, besides proving a very uncongenial
companion, not only called at all the taverns on the
road, but turned out of his way to find others, ex-
pecting at each one to be treated with a dram. Al-
though Mr. Safford drank no spirits himself, he
thought it would be dishonorable to refuse this
courtesy to the man who was giving him the ride.
Thus the whole day was consumed, and as much
money as would hare paid for a seat in the public
conveyance. The sun was just setting as they drove
into Boston. Mr. Safford hastened to leave his com-
panion, and determined, more strongly than ever, to
avoid thereafter the society of all drinking persons.
The lesson of that day he never forgot.
It was a stormy Saturday night when he arrived, a
stranger in the city. At early dawn the next morning
he left the hotel to find the only person in the city
whom he knew. This was Mr. William Adams, who
had formerly been a neighbor of the Saffords, and a
playmate of Daniel in their childhood. Just as Mr.
Adams was crossing Washington Street, with a pan of
coals for kindling his fire, which he had procured at
the " Lamb Tavern," he looked up the street, and saw
a robust young man advancing toward him with quick
and vigorous step. The short gray overcoat and large
20 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
yellow buckskin gloves marked him as a country lad.
Mr. Adams soon recognized him, and their greetings
were very cordial. Daniel took a seat in Park Street
Church with his friend that day ; and this became his
regular place of worship.
On Monday morning a copartnership was formed
between Mr. Adams and his young friend. The
" taking account of stock " was easily accomplished.
It was found that the older partner possessed, in iron
and tools, two hundred and forty dollars. The
younger put into the firm twenty dollars in cash,
and gave his note for two hundred and twenty more.
He then took off his coat, and went to work. The
copartnership, thus commenced, continued about
seven years. Their workshop was in the yard of the
" White Horse Tavern," which, with the " Lamb Tav-
ern," the older inhabitants of Boston will remember
as standing in Newbury, now Washington Street, near
the present Hayward Place.
During the first few years of Mr. Safford's life in
Boston his circle of acquaintance was very limited.
He was industrious and economical, spending money
for nothing which he could do without. As he never
desired forbidden indulgences, the temptations of a
city had little power to attract him. He never entered
a theater nor a dancing hall ; never visited a billiard
room, a drinking shop, nor even a refreshment saloon.
His healthful appetite was satisfied with three plain
meals a day at a low-priced boarding house ; and his
nights were spent in refreshing sleep. At this period
he^ might frequently have been seen, at twilight, with a
merry countenance and elastic step, crossing the Com-
mon arm in arm witli his partner, or playing and leaping
EARLY MANHOOD. 21
with him, more like a boy let loose from school, than
a man who had been all day at the anvil. Never a
thought that his was a hard lot, never a feeling of
jealousy toward those who seemed to be more highly
favored than himself, gained entrance to his heart.
His contented mind was a " continual feast." In
after life, when enjoying the abundance God had given
him, he frequently remarked that he had never been
happier than at this period, when he was thus most
industriously employed every hour of the six working
days of the week, and in the evening adjusting his
accounts, or administering to the wants of some person
poorer than himself. For his charities commenced
with his earnings, and J^ept pace with them through
his life.
At this period Mr. Safford bought his iron one bar
at a time, and carried it to his shop quite a distance
on his shoulders. As this consumed time and
strength, he ventured one day to ask the iron mer-
chant to sell him on credit as much as he could work
up in a month, that it might be carted to the shop.
The man hesitated a little, but at length replied, " I
think I would rather keep my iron." In later life
Mr. Safford often referred to this circumstance in 'a
manner which showed that he was not ashamed of his
small beginnings, and with something of the gratitude
of David, when he exclaimed, " Lord, by thy favor
thou hast made my mountain to stand strong." His
friends, to whom he used to tell the story, could
hardly believe that there had ever been a time when
Daniel Safford could not be trusted in Boston for .a
load of iron ; but he could never forget it.
He strictly observed the Sabbath, continuing to
22 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
attend regularly the Park Street Church. Curiosity
never led him to stroll about on the Lord's day, to see
other churches, or hear a variety of preachers. Not
seeking to be known, nor expecting any attention to
be paid him, it was with much surprise that, on lifting
his eyes from his work one day, covered as he was
with dust, he saw the majestic figure of the Rev. Dr.
Griffin stoop to enter his shop, and heard him say,
as he advanced, " I have come to seek you out, having
noticed your constant attendance upon my preaching."
The sermons of this faithful and eloquent man, to
which he was indeed an interested listener, impressed
his mind deeply. The seed thus sown fell into good
ground, and brought forth fruit after the sower had
gone to his reward.
Notwithstanding it may involve some repetition, we
will close this chapter with Mr. Safford's own history
of his early life, as we find it in a letter, written to
his eldest son on his becoming of age. It is dated
April 1, 1851.
" MY DEAR SON : You are now twenty-one years
old a * free man.' I have no longer a legal right to
dictate to you, or to control you, and you have no
longer a legal claim on me for pecuniary aid or sup-
port. By this I do not intend to intimate that you
will have less regard for my opinions and wishes, or
that I shall feel less solicitude for your temporal and
spiritual welfare. You have now launched your little
skiff upon the broad sea of life, with nothing to de-
pend upon but your paddle and the favoring breezes
of heaven.
" By this I am reminded of my own past history ;
EARLY MANHOOD. 23
and, as I do not recollect having told you much about
it, I will now give you a very brief account of my
earlier life, which may be of some use to you while
I live; at least a gratification to you when I am
gone.
[After stating the particulars of his parentage and
boyhood, as already recounted, Mr. Safford pro-
ceeds : ]
"At the age of sixteen I went to Salem as an
apprentice to my brother David, at the blacksmith's
business. Soon after this I became acquainted with
three other mechanics' apprentices, older than myself,
who worked near me. They invited me to go out
with them in the evening, and I did so several times.
I soon found that they were profane, intemperate, and
licentious. On one occasion, when I came home, I
found the door locked ; it was nearly eleven o'clock.
I succeeded in entering the house by way of the cellar
door, and thus found my way to my bed without dis-
turbing the family. I went to bed, but not to sleep ;
for although I had not fallen into any immoral prac-
tices, I saw that if I continued in such company, my
reputation would suffer, and there was danger that my
character would soon become like theirs. I deter-
mined at once to break off all intimacy with them,
and to avoid their society altogether, which I did from
that night. About that time my attention was called
to the subject of my own salvation. I then spent my
evenings in reading the Bible and other good books,
and attending religious meetings. After this, my old
associates asked me a few times to go with them to
their haunts of sin, and, when I declined, they said,
t Oh, you have become very pious ! ' I replied that I
24 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
wished it were true. When they found they could
neither coax nor laugh me out of it, they left me to
myself.
" My interest in religion gradually increased. I
became more and more convinced of my lost condition
as a sinner against God, and my need of such a Sa-
viour as the gospel provides. Although the struggle
was great, and my progress slow, I trust I was ulti-
mately led by the Spirit of God, whose aid I daily
implored, to commit my soul unreservedly to him. I
now found new associates a few young men, with
whom I met weekly for prayer and religious conversa-
tion, became my most intimate and faithful friends.
In their society I was far more happy than I had ever
been in that of my former associates friends I can
not call them. In the one case the interviews afforded
a pleasant and profitable topic of thought and con-
versation ; in the other nothing but remorse and
shame.
" Of these last friends, the one with whom I was
most intimate died in the triumphs of faith, while pre-
paring for the ministry. Another became a wealthy
merchant, and, after a life of usefulness, died about a
year ago, leaving a large amount of property to dif-
ferent benevolent institutions. Two others have been
faithful and successful ministers of the gospel, and
are still living and laboring in the vineyard of their
Lord and Master. Very different is the history of my
three earlier associates. Not long after I left them,
one of the number pilfered from his master, ran away,
and, so far as I know, has not been heard from since.
The other two sank lower and lower in vice and dissi-
pation, until they lost their employment and friends,
EARLY MANHOOD. 25
and became poor and shabby in their appearance. I
have met them when they would look down or another
way, so as not to see me when I passed them. I think
they both died from the effects of their dissipation be-
fore they arrived at the age of thirty-five years. How
true that ' the way of transgressors is hard,' and that
' the path of the just, like the shining light, shineth
more and more unto the perfect day ' !
" For a long time my hope that I was a Christian
was feeble and vacillating, so that I did not offer my-
self to the church until I was about nineteen years
old. I was then received into the Tabernacle Church
in Salem, of which the Rev. Dr. Worcester, who was
subsequently the first secretary of the American Board
of Missions, was at that time the pastor.
" Near the close of the year 1812, when I was a
little more than twenty years old, my brother, who
had another apprentice, and very little business, told
me he would give me the remainder of my time, if
I would release him from his obligation to give me,
as was then the custom, a ' freedom suit ' of clothes.
I accepted this proposition, and on the last Saturday
of December came to Boston, having in hand about
twenty dollars, with forty more due me, which I
could not then collect. This money I had earned
during my apprenticeship, by working at unseason-
able hours.
" I was very poorly clad, had but these twenty dol-
lars, and knew the face of but one man in Boston.
Business of every kind was extremely dull, in conse-
quence of the existing war with England. I thought
if I could earn a living the first year, I should do well,
and be satisfied, though the prospect even for this
3
26 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
looked doubtful ; but I set my face to seek the Lord,
and my hands to work ; and at the close of the year I
found, to my surprise, that I had gained three hundred
dollars. This I have ever considered, in. view of
all the circumstances, the most successful year of
my life.
" About this time I was informed that a very poor,
pious old widow lived in a little attic room near my
shop. I went to see her, and found her almost with-
out fuel, and her room cold. I got a small load of
wood for her, and hired a man to saw it, and after I
had done work I went and carried it up a narrow,
winding stairway, and piled it up snugly in her cham-
ber. The relief which this little act afforded her, and
the gratitude which she expressed, gave me more
pleasure than any like sum which I ever spent for my-
self. As my acquaintances were then few, I used fre-
quently to visit her, and assist her from time to time,
as she needed ; but I was abundantly repaid by her
pioiis and instructive conversation, and I doubt not
that I was blessed in answer to her fervent prayers.
From that time to this I have been in the habit of
contributing for the relief of the poor, and for various
benevolent purposes, as opportunity has offered, and as
the Lord has prospered me ; and in my own case I
have experienced the fulfillment of the declarations,
* He that hath pity on the poor lendeth to the Lord,
and that which he hath given will he pay him again,'
and ' There is that scattereth and yet increaseth.'
" If it had been told me, when I commenced busi-
ness in Boston, that I should one day be worth ten
thousand dollars, I should have been greatly surprised,
and perfectly satisfied. That was a larger amount
EARLY MANHOOD. 27
than I ever expected to acquire. When about to take
any important step in my worldly affairs, I have been
in the habit of asking for the guidance of God as sin-
cerely as in spiritual matters ; and, although I do not
expect an answer in an audible voice, I do expect him
so to influence my mind as to lead me to decide in the
way which he sees, on the whole, to be best. "What a
privilege, when in doubt as to what course to pursue,
to be permitted and invited to ask wisdom of One who
knows all things, the future as well as the present
and past!
" When I reflect upon my success in business, and
upon my social and religious standing, I love to attrib-
ute them to the blessing of God upon my exertions.
We must not look for his blessing without our exer-
tions, but upon our exertions.
" Perhaps you are ready to say, ' / do not take any
pleasure in reading the Bible, in thinking about God,
in praying to him, or in the society of those who talk
about God, and heaven, and eternal things.' Is it so ?
Then you or God must change, or you can never be
happy with him and holy beings. And now, my dear
sou, let me entreat you to set your face, your heart,
your whole soul, to seek the Lord in earnest. Will
you do it ? Will you resolve never to do it ? No, I
am sure you will not. Will you resolve to do it at
some future time ? That time may never come ; and
if it does, it may, and probably will, find you less
inclined than now. Christ says, * Seek first the king-
dom of God and his righteousness, and all these
[necessary] things shall be added to you.
" Give yourself unreservedly to God, and he will
give himself to you. God will be your portion, heaven
28 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
will be your home, and there will be laid up for you
an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Only
think ! exceeding all worldly glory a thousand times,
and that for ever.
" That this may be your lot, let it be your daily
prayer, as it is the prayer of your ever affectionate
father, DANIEL SAFFORD."
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 29
CHAPTER III.
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS.
Death of his elder Brother and Father. Marriage. Housekeeping. Ap-
prentices. Correspondence with his Brother Ephr aim. Death of his
Brother David. Receives his Children into his own Family. Little
Susan. Her sudden Death. Letters. Views of Dress. Death of his
Brother Ephraim. Sickness and Death of Mrs. Safford. Impaired
Health.
Two years of Mr. Safford's business life had glided
pleasantly away, and his prospects were still brighten-
ing, when a series of bereavements commenced, which
constitute a remarkable feature in his history.
Mr. Safford's love for his brothers, their early prom-
ise and high moral character, have already been men-
tioned. This fourfold cord was now to be sundered.
Samuel, the eldest of the band, who had been the
leader of the brothers and cousins in their childish
sports, whose playful humor and musical voice ren-
dered him very attractive in more mature years, was
first called away. He was at this time thirty years
old, a husband and a father. Life seemed opening
upon him with increasing charms. But consumption
laid upon him its blighting hand, and after oscillating
for months between hope and fear; his friends wero
forced to the painful conclusion -that he must die, and
sent for Daniel to come and pass the few remaining
days with him. It was the first death which Mr.
Safford had ever witnessed, and it was witli the most
3*
30 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
intense interest that he watched the process of that
great change in one so dear to him. " Daniel," said
the expiring brother, " I have seen others die, and
thought it a very solemn scene ; but it is quite a dif-
ferent thing to die myself.'- Mr. Safford felt as never
before the inestimable value of that hope in Christ
which proves an anchor to the soul in such an hour.
Samuel had for two years indulged this hope ; and he
now, without fear, saw death approaching. Perceiving
that the friends around his bed were waiting to catch
the last token of recognition, he said, " I am not going
now ; my time has not come yet." A few hours later
he looked upon them with a smile, and said, " I am
going now," and ceased breathing. Mr. Safford re-
tained with great vividness, through his entire life, the
impression of this death. The calmness with which
this beloved brother, trusting in the Lord Jesus, faced
the king of terrors, assured him of the possibility of
triumphing over death, and increased his confidence in
the foundation on which he had based his own hopes
for eternity the atonement of Christ. But he was
led to inquire whether he was bringing forth those
fruits of the Spirit which are the only proof of a gen-
uine trust in Christ, and to seek with greater earnest-
ness to make his salvation sure.
The next year, 1816, Mr. Safford was called to part
with his father. An incident connected with his death
is related with tender interest by a maternal aunt of
Daniel, who survived him, and was able, though at the
great age of ninety-eight, to recall much of the history
of her nephew. Early piety was not so frequent then
as now. Mr. Safford, this aunt tells us, was called
home to see his father, who lay on his dying bed.
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 31
He had made his visit ; and, as he was about to take
leave, his father said, " Daniel, can not you pray with
us before you go ? " " He was but a youngster, then,"
said she, " and there was David, with his girl, and
Ephraim, with his girl, and all the rest of the family ;
but he knelt and prayed, without a moment's hesita-
tion, and we never, any of us, doubted, after that, that
Daniel was a man of prayer." This was the first time
his relatives had heard his voice in prayer, and this
was the last interview on earth between the son and
father. The latter fell asleep soon after, at the age of
sixty years. His body rests in the village churchyard
at Hamilton. On his tombstone are inscribed the words,
" Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, for
the end of that man is peace."
In 1817, Mr. Safford was married to Miss Sarah
Ashton, of Boston. He was then twenty-four years of
age, and had been four years in business. He hired
part of a house, adjoining his shop, in Devonshire
Street. This he fitted up with second-hand furniture,
every article of which he paid for, and conveyed home
after the work of the day in the same manner he had
formerly carried his iron to the workshop. When all
was completed, and lie saw every thing neatly and
pleasantly arranged under the guiding hand of his
skillful housewife, and all paid for by the blessing
of God upon his own labor, his heart was filled
with delight and gratitude.
He erected a family altar as soon as he had a fam-
ily, and every member of his household was expected
to be present at the devotions. He never thought of
excusing himself from this, or any other duty, on the
plea that he was not gifted, or had not been educated.
32 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPPORD.
Using the gifts he had, his one talent became five, as all
will testify who have united in his prayers in the fam-
ily, in the conference room, the dying chamber, or the
house of mourning. To him the promise was richly
verified, " Whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and
he shall l\ave more abundance."
Mr. Safford, at the time of his marriage, was con-
nected with a circle of young men, who met weekly at
each other's homes for prayer and religious conversa-
tion ; and now it gave him great pleasure to be able,
in his turn, to accommodate them at his own house.
Thus early did he commence making his dwelling a
sanctuary of prayer and praise.
As his business increased, he began to take ap-
prentices, and received them all into his own famil}*-,
until the number amounted to ten. These he not
only boarded and lodged, but supplied them also with
clothes, all of which were made and mended in his
house, under the personal care of his wife. For these
young men Mr. Safford felt the solicitude of a truly
Christian master. He required them all to be pres-
ent at the family devotions, and to go regularly to
some place of worship on the Sabbath. Other whole-
some regulations were enforced ; one of which was,
that they should always be at home for the night as
early as ten o'clock. Nor was this care diminished
after he ceased to board his apprentices himself.
Though no longer under his own roof, they still
received his parental oversight. The fruits of this
solicitude in their behalf were apparent. Five of
them were admitted successively as partners with him
in business, all of whom became hopefully Christian
men. Two preceded Mr. Safford to their home above,
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 33
and three yet live to testify to his faithfulness, and
cherish his example and counsels as a sacred boon
from Heaven.
The earliest correspondence of Mr. Safford which is
left us was held with his brother Ephraim. This
brother was one for whom he ever cherished great
respect and affection. He possessed a well-balanced
and cultivated mind ; being unusually fond of read-
ing, even from his childhood. He had desired to go to
college, but his father's limited income forbade this ;
and, as his constitution was naturally delicate, it was
judged best to send him to sea, in the hope that a few
voyages might strengthen it. He became a sailor, and
soon a commander of a ship. Mr. Safford's first letter
to him is dated December 5, 1819. It is directed,
" Capt. Ephraim Safford. To be left at the Sun
Tavern, Salem, Mass." We give it entire.
" DEAR BROTHER : Since I left you I have thought
much of the importance of your situation, and of the
difficulties attending it. If any thing I could do or
say would lessen these difficulties, or afford you any
assistance, I would spare no pains to do it. But when
I consider my inability to say any thing that will be
instructive to you, it is with much diffidence that I
make the attempt.
" I will, first, briefly give you my idea of the best
mode of government, and leave you to judge how far
it may answer for you.
" The best mode of commanding, I think, is to say,
* Do this,' or ' Do that,' in a pleasant, but firm manner.
I know that sea captains have said that it is necessary
to swear at men, in order to be obeyed quickly. This
34 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPPORD.
may be true when a man has always been in the ha,bit
of accompanying every command with an oath ; but
when the reverse has been the practice, I am confident
the simple command will be obeyed with more pleasure
by the men, and with much more credit to the com-
mander. I do not say this to you because I have ever
heard that you were in the least addicted to the
very ungentlemanly as well as unchristian habit of
swearing.
" As to that part of government which comes under
the name of correction, I think it is much more diffi-
cult to administer it wisely. It is all-important that
the offender, whether the correction be in word or
deed, -should, if possible, be made sensible that he is
not punished with a malicious and revengeful spirit,
but from the impulse of sober reason and a sense of
duty ; for although our passions are as necessary as
our reason, they should no more be exercised without
reason, than the sails of a ship should be hoisted to
the wind when she has no rudder.
" I think that the Sabbath should be more regarded
than it usually is at sea. ' Remember the Sabbath
day to keep it holy,' is one of the ten commandments,
against the profanation of which much is said in the
Bible. For that sin the nation of Israel was threat-
ened with destruction ; and we have no right to expect
prosperity, either as a nation or as individuals, if we
disregard this command. When the weather is such
as to render it practicable, if the officers of vessels
would read a sermon and prayers with the crew, and
keep up the form of worship, I think they would find
it to promote peace and good order, though no other
good effect were realized. I send you a parcel of
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 35
tracts, that you may occasionally drop some of them
where the sailors will get them, or give them directly,
as you may think best. As there is something novel
in them, your men may be induced to read them, when
they would not read the Bible ; and if it has no other
effect, it may employ them when they would otherwise
be studying mischief.
" I hope you will be careful to use means for the
restoration of your health, and look to God for his
blessing upon them. I commend you to God, whose
favor is life. That He who corninandeth the winds and
waves, and they obey, may bear you prosperously to
all your destined ports, and in good time return you
in health and safety to your country and friends, is the
earnest pra) er of your anxious brother."
In 1822 Mr. Safford was called to Salem to witness
the death of his brother David, with whom he had
served his apprenticeship, and* who, like Samuel, was
fast sinking under a consumption. His wife had al-
ready fallen by the same disease. When dying, he
committed to Daniel his four children, David, Ephraim,
Ruth, and Susan. He received them into his own
family, and acted towards them the part of an affec-
tionate father. All except the youngest grew up to
mature years under his fostering care.
The following letter, addressed to his brother
Ephraim, is directed, " Ship Minerva, Charleston,
South Carolina."
' May 6, 1823.
" DEAR BROTHER : As I have no news to communi-
cate, it may not be unprofitable to spend a thought on
the present life as connected with the future. It is
36 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
compared to a journey, a voyage, a race, and a war-
fare, each of which supposes something ahead as the
great object. If we reflect on the sicknesses and
pains, the losses, disappointments, and troubles, of
every kind, to which mankind are constantly exposed
in this life, we cannot suppose that a Being of infinite
goodness and wisdom would have created man and
placed him here, unless there were some important
work for him to do. From the Bible we learn that
this important work is to prepare for another, a never-
ending state of existence. We also learn that this ex-
istence is to be happy or miserable, beyond our present
conception, according to the deeds done in the body.
Now, if, by any thing we can do, this happiness may
be secured and this misery avoided, surely this life,
though short, is of infinite importance. In the gospel
we are assured that whosoever will may come and
drink of the water of life freely. Now, dear brother,
as you value your soul, be entreated, by one to whom
your happiness is dear, to make a serious business of
religion, and that without delay ; for life is short, and
death is certain and near. I know you are deprived
of many privileges with which I am favored ; but you
have the Bible, which is the best guide, and the pres-
ence of its divine Author, who is the God of the seas
as well as of the dry land. I wish, if you have time,
you would write me something of your religious views
and feelings, and particularly of your health. I feel
anxious for your welfare in port and your safety
at sea, but rejoice to leave you in the hands of Him
who can calm the raging elements with a word.
I a*m very busy, but shall endeavor to write you
again before you sail from Charleston. Please write
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEBEAVEMENTS. 37
me how you like your ship, officers, men, and your
cook.
" Your sincere friend and affectionate brother,
" DANIEL."
In a letter to Captain Ephraim Safford, dated May 1,
1824, he says,
" I have just bought a house, for which I paid fifty-
five hundred dollars, and I used your money to make
out the amount ; but I shall hold myself ready to
meet any demand you may make on me. When you
return we shall probably be living in Sullivan Court,
directly opposite father Ashton's houses, in Federal
Street.
"I have lost five hundred dollars this year by a
failure, but my business is very good. I sincerely
regret, brother, your present adverse fortune, but I
hope the result will not be so bad as you fear. At any
rate, may it lead you and me to take the advice of
the poet,
Lean not on earth ; 'twill pierce thee to the heart;
A broken reed at best, but oft a spear,
On whose sharp point peace bleeds, and hope expires.' "
It lias been mentioned that, on the death of his
brother David, Mr. Safford received the four orphan
children to his own hoiise, Susan, the youngest,
being then three years old. Having no children of
his own, he became very much attached to this little
one. It was his first experience of loving and .being
loved by a little child. It was her sweet voice and
kiss which usually first greeted him on his return
4
38 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
home ; and in her prattle, as she sat upon his knee, at
the close of the day, he learned to forget all his toils
and cares. For three years she was permitted, as a
sunbeam, thus to enliven the home of her adoption, to
receive and reciprocate the affection of her uncle. In
the spring of 1825, on the day of General Lafayette's
arrival in Boston, she stood at the window in the
morning, watching for her uncle ; and when he en-
tered the house, she jumped into his arms, full of life
and animation, saying, " Now, uncle, I want some
money to buy me a blue ribbon. I am going to have
some visitors, and we must all be dressed in white,
with a Lafayette ribbon." The purchase was made.
Susan was dressed, and her little friends came. They
were full of glee, the house resounding with their
merry voices, as they played " bo-peep " in the yard.
Running into the shed, she leaped up to catch a
glimpse of them through the window. Missing her
hold, she fell into a vault, and was suffocated before
assistance could be procured. Her uncle was absent
at the time, engaged, with others, in escorting our
country's benefactor into the city. On his return no
pattering feet ran to welcome him. The dear child
whom he had clasped in his arms a few hours before,
in perfect health, lay still in death. He at once recog-
nized the hand of his Father, and heard him saying,
" Be still, and know that I am God." But a friend
who accompanied him home, and witnessed the scene
that ensued, describes it as one of the most affecting
he ever witnessed ; and Mr. Safford could never speak
of it in after life without manifesting much feeling.
Mrs. Safford never recovered from the shock.
Captain Ephraim Safford was at this time with a
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 39
physician in New Hampshire, in the hope of improv-
ing his health. His brother wrote to him thus :
" In consequence of Lafayette's visit, our city and
house have been crowded with company. The Me-
chanics' Association, of which I am a member, gave
him a dinner. The occasion was one of great interest.
The governor, lieutenant governor, Hon. Daniel Web-
ster, and the mayor, with the son and suite of the
general, were present."
The matter of dress is not wholly without signifi-
cance. It may therefore be remarked in passing, that
at the dinner referred to in the above extract, Mr.
Safford was introduced to Lafayette as the leading
blacksmith of the city. The marquis, eying him from
head to foot, said, with some surprise, " Why, I should
sooner have taken him for the leading tailor" The
incident shows the care which Mr. Safford had of his
personal appearance. His piety did not lift him above,
nor his occupation sink him below, proper attention to
his dress. He was equally removed from every thing
finical and slovenly. His aspect and attire were in
keeping with his character and habits ; so that stran-
gers often asked, " Is that gentleman a clergyman ? "
This may seem unworthy of record ; yet an experienced
and observing merchant remarks, that he has rarely
seen the lad or the young man, who was indifferent to
his appearance, and slovenly in his dress, succeed in
business.
The next letter is to his brother Ephraiin.
" August 21, 1825.
" VERY DEAR BROTHER : Reflecting this evening on
your situation, I have thought that if any remedy
40 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
could be found for your disease, I would spare neither
money, time, nor exertion to procure it. At the
same time, I have been still more strongly impressed
with the importance of doing something that, with the
blessing of God, may procure for you that which is of
infinitely greater moment ; I mean an interest in the
atonement of Christ. For what is time compared with
eternity ? To assist my laboring mind to some faint
idea of eternity, I have supposed one particle of dust
to drop from this earth in a million of years, and so
onward ; the period would at length arrive when the
last atom would drop. At that distant time, should it
be asked how much of duration remains, the answer
would be, Eternity. Now, dear brother, if your eter-
nity should be a happy one, and happy beyond your
powers of conception, what a blessing that you were
born ! if otherwise, what ! This is your state
of probation. Now there is hope. If delays in other
cases are dangerous, they must be dreadfully so in
this. Go, I entreat you, to God ; confess your sins,
and if you do not feel yourself to be a great sinner,
ask him to disclose to you your true character.
" Perhaps you recollect some time when you have
been sick or in great danger ; when you have promised
that if your life were spared, you would seek and serve
the Lord. If so, confess the sin of failing to perform
vows made under such solemn circumstances. Pre-
tend not to any merit of your own as a reason why
you should obtain mercy and forgiveness, but plead
the merits of Him who died to save sinners, and who
is ready to save, even at the eleventh hour, all who
truly repent and believe. Let the Bible be your
guide ; the reading of that, with prayer, your employ-
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 41
ment. 'He that never prayed can never conceive,
and he that has ever prayed as he ought can never
forget, how much is to be gained by prayer.' All
I have said to you, my brother, I hope I have said to
myself; it is needful."
Ephraim came to Mr. Safford's house soon after the
date of this letter, and remained until his death, which
occurred in the following month. Mr. Safford thus
enjoyed the privilege, during the last days of his
brother, of performing for him those kind offices
which are so grateful to an invalid of delicate sensi-
bilities, when they are known to be the expression of
sincere affection and devoted attachment. Ephraim
left his property in the care of his brother, requesting
that their mother, while she lived, might be supported
from the income a request which Mr. Safford al-
lowed to be fulfilled partially, and for a time only, as
he claimed to share with him the privilege of support-
ing her.
Within a few hours of his death, Ephraim said to his
wife, " Daniel does not need my money. There is noth-
ing I can do to show my gratitude and love for him ;
but if our child should be a son, will you name him
Daniel, as a token of my respect and affection for him ? "
In accordance with this request, the child was called
Daniel Ephraim. The widow soon followed her husband
to the grave, and left this child to the care of his uncle.
Although his early training devolved chiefly on his
maternal grandmother, yet Mr. Safford ever regarded
him more as a son than a nephew, and felt the most
tender interest both for his temporal and spiritual
welfare ; managing the property so prudently that it
nearly doubled while in his hands.
4*
42 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
Captain Ephraim Safford was the last of his three
brothers. As already mentioned, they all died of con-
sumption, between the ages of thirty and thirty- six
years. It was hard for Mr. Safford to see brothers of
so much promise die so soon. But this was God's
method of teaching an enterprising young man the
uncertainty of life, and the importance of seeking first
the kingdom of God and his righteousness. That les-
son, indeed, had been taught him from his childhood,
by a heart affection, from which he often suffered.
When running, or engaged in any of the athletic
sports of youth, he was frequently compelled to stop
instantly, and remain quiet until the palpitation sub-
sided. In after life these attacks became of a more
serious character. He was sometimes seized witli
them while conversing quietly with a friend. He
ceased talking. His countenance assumed a thought-
ful expression, and if asked what was the matter, he
replied, " Do not speak to me." Sometimes he would
remain sitting ; at other times throw himself upon a
sofa. On placing an ear to his chest, the heart would
seem to be entirely still. A fluttering motion succeed-
ed, followed by a violent beating. These paroxysms
occupied from five minutes to half an hour. When
relief came, it was as sudden as the attack. He some-
times bounded to the floor with joy. When asked to
describe his sensations, his reply was, " I can give no
account of them. I do not yet know what dying is,
but I have the impression that this suffering is as near
the sensation of dying as any thing can be." It was
this heart disease which led him habitually to expect
that he should die suddenly. He was thus from his
youth under sentence of death, and of^^ reminded
that it might come at any hour.
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 43
We now see Mr. Safford residing in Sullivan Place ;
the family consisting of his invalid wife, his widowed
mother, who had conie to take up her permanent
abode with him, and the three orphan children of his
brother David. His extensive business, the declining
health of his wife, and his care for these children, press
heavily upon him, but with great cheerfulness and
fidelity he discharges every duty. Yet he is but little
known beyond the circle of his business. There are
men, however, in the church, wise and observing, who
have marked his course, silent and unobtrusive, al-
ready saying one to another, " There is a great deal
in that man. He is yet to become an ornament in the
church, and a blessing to the world."
Mrs. Safford lingered in consumption for two years.
It was during her protracted illness that he learned
those lessons of patient watching with the sick, and
acquired that skill in the treatment of them, which
rendered him so well adapted ever after to the cham-
ber of sickness. We could mention numerous in-
stances in which he was enabled thus to comfort the
suffering by giving himself to minister to them. A
gentleman living at a distance from the city, who had
been long ill and was now confined to his bed, was
visited by Mr. Safford just before his death, and his
offer to sit with him through the night was accepted.
The wife of the invalid says, " I shall never forget the
expression of pleasure and gratitude with which my
husband said to me, as I approached his bed in the
morning, ' I have had a good night. What a wonder-
ful man Mr. Safford is ! He knows exactly how to
treat a sick person. Never has any one turned me in
bed with such ease, always placing the pillows in the
44 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
way to render my position the most comfortable.'"
He conferred and received an unusual amount of
pleasure in thus personally waiting upon the sick, in
imitation of his divine Master, who " came not to be
ministered unto, but to minister." The first time the
writer ever heard Mr Safford's name mentioned, was
more than thirty years ago, when he was described to
her as " the good Deacon Safford, whose wife had been
ill so long, and who had been so patient and kind in
the care of her, and whom every body loved."
The summer previous to Mrs. Safford's death, she
was removed to Randolph for the benefit of the coun-
try air. All the sleep he had during that season was
obtained while riding to and from that place, a dis-
tance of fourteen miles. He was obliged to remain at
his business until the latest moment ; then he would
get into his chaise, place the reins on a hook, fold his
arms, and sleep until the horse stopped at the door of
the house, spend the night in watching with her, and
just at daybreak seat himself again in his chaise, sleep-
ing on his return in the same way; his trusty horse
" Blackie " conducting him just as safely as by the
most careful driving.
Mrs. Safford died in November, 1827, leaving pleas-
ing evidence to her bereaved husband that she had
departed to be with Christ. She had been educated a
Unitarian, her parents and most of her relations having
been of that faith ; but she had experienced a change
of views, and united with the Park Street Church be-
fore her marriage. The fact that Mr. Safford pro-
fessed a different faith did not obstruct the most free
and affectionate intercourse with her friends. He was
never accused of bigotry by them, although he did not
DOMESTIC LIFE AND BEREAVEMENTS. 45
'compromise or conceal his sentiments, but endeavored
to be the same in all places and circumstances. Her
mother, who survived his wife, made him her adviser
in all her secular affairs, and the executor of her will.
Her brothers also placed unlimited confidence in him.
One of them, having taken up his residence in Europe,
left a large amount of property in his hands, requiring
no security, and giving no directions about it, except
to say, " Use your own judgment and discretion."
They trusted him because they saw that he constantly
endeavored to do unto others whatsoever he would
that others should do unto him.
He continued to visit, his mother-in-law, and kindly
to attend to all her requests during the many years
she remained a widow and an invalid, even after he
had formed many new relationships by his subsequent
marriages.
During Mrs. Safford's long confinement, she had
come to feel the loneliness of their residence in Sulli-
van Court ; in consequence of which Mr. Safford sold
the house and removed to rooms on the corner of Avon
Place and Washington Street, where she died. After
her death, he sent the children under his care to
school in the country, and he with his mother became
boarders. His own health was now seriously impaired.
Apprehensions were awakened that he, too, might fall
a victim to the same disease which had carried to
the grave all his brothers, two of their wives, and
his own.
His physician having advised immediate relaxation
from business, he engaged passage for himself and
faithful " 1'lackie " on board a vessel bound for the
coast of Maine, where he spent several weeks travers-
46 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
ing those vast primitive forests on horseback, eschew-
ing all medicine, and breathing God's pure air. The
unfavorable symptoms disappeared, and he returned to
the city greatly invigorated. This seems to have been
a crisis in his physical condition, no indications of pul-
monary disease ever recurring afterward.
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES. 47
CHAPTER IV.
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES.
First large charitable Donation. Amount of his Property in 1826. Increase
of his HusiiK'ss. His Horse " Blackie." Rules of the Workshop.
Efforts to promote Temperance among his Men. Interest in their Spir-
itual Welfare. Narrative of two Individuals. Description of his Busi-
ness. Respect for his Calling. Reputation for Integrity. Self-re-
straint under Provocation. Skill in his Work.
" How long," the writer asked of a distinguished
clergyman of this city, " had you been acquainted
with Mr. Saffbrd ? " " Ever since," he replied, " that
subscription of one thousand dollars which he made to
the funds of the American Education Society." The
event thus referred to occurred in the year 1826. At
that time donations to charitable objects of such an
amount were rare, and the fact of this being offered
by Mr. Safiford could not fail to bring him into notice
in the religious community.
While listening to a sermon by the Rev. Dr. Cor-
nelius on the importance of educating pious young
men for the ministry, in which it was proposed that
some one should give a thousand dollars to found a
scholarship, the interest of which should be perma-
nently devoted to aid one beneficiary, the question
arose in his mind, " Can not /do it ? " His heart
responded, " I can." And he did it. At that time
Mr. Safibrd was worth twenty-five thousand dollars.
48 MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
This had not been gained by the rise of stocks, nor by
speculations of any sort, but was wholly the product
of industry and untiring application to his business,
through the blessing of God, which, he says, " from the
beginning I sought upon my labors." The preceding
year had been one of unusual prosperity; and he now
came with his thank offering, in accordance with the
principle, upon which he acted through life, of giving
as the Lord had prospered him.
" But this subscription," he said to a friend years
afterward, " cost me a great deal of pain. I saw in
my heart risings of self-complacency, which were very
odious, and led me to fear that God would not accept
the offering."
Until about this time Mr. SafFord had been accus-
tomed to labor with his men in the shop. He now
took into partnership Mr. Isaiah Low, one of his early
apprentices, a man of sterling worth and more than
ordinary mental -culture. His views of the principles
and mode of conducting business harmonized entirely
with Mr. Safford's ; and he proved himself so compe-
tent in every respect, that the shop and the mechanical
part of the business were at length left mostly in his
hands. Mr. Low took the house adjoining their place
of business, and received the apprentices into his
family.
Although by this arrangement Mr. Safford was
relieved from the immediate care of the shop, still
the rapid extension of his business required his whole
attention abroad. His work was called for in remote
parts of the city and suburbs. It was in the prosecu-
tion of these labors that he purchased for a saddle
horse the favorite " Blackie," already spoken of an
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES. 49
animal which from his own qualities, and his celebrity,
deserves more thaii a passing mention.
This horse was brought for sale from the country,
because unmanageable by his owner. His appearance
was quite striking, being above the medium size, finely
proportioned, of a jet black color, and his countenance
remarkably intelligent. Having some confidence in
his own horsemanship, Mr. Safford said he would try
him. To his surprise, the horse behaved extremely
well. Perceiving no fault in him, he concluded that
the owner must have been very timid, and have yielded
the mastery to the animal, who discovered this, and
used the liberty given him. He purchased the horse ;
but the very first time he mounted him afterward, he
made known his intention not to be controlled. His
first effort was to throw his rider an art in which he
was manifestly well practiced. He reared, he kicked,
he plunged, dashing and foaming in his rage. The
battle was fought in a lumber yard, where boards and
much timber were lying loosely about. Mr. Safford
*oon found that the contest was to be a severe one, and
of very doubtful issue. The horse had always before
gained the victory, and seemed quite confident he
should now. Many persons were attracted to the spot
to witness the scene. His friends begged him to dis-
mount, saying that he would certainly be killed. But
lie was not accustomed to yield to difficulties in any
work he had undertaken. He held the reins firmly,
and with perfect calmness and great adroitness retained
his scat, confident that he must conquer now or never,
yet doubting whether the horse would yield until
death. A large raw-hide whip was completely used
up ; the blood was flowing copiously down his legs ;
5
50 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPFOBD.
when suddenly the horse surrendered. Standing en-
tirely still, with the exception of an involuntary and
universal trembling, he seemed to say, " I submit ; I
wait your bidding as my master." From this moment
there was always the best understanding between the
horse and his owner. For the succeeding twelve years
they were associated with each other in the minds of
many in this community. Mr. Safford was often des-
ignated by those who did not know his name as " the
man who owns the black horse."
All the boys in the city knew Blackie. He would
follow his master whenever permitted, run to him
when called, if within sound of his voice, and perform
many pranks which were to them a great amusement.
His master frequently left him at the door of an
establishment, with the reins over the saddle, and
however long the time he was occupied, Blackie would
be found on his return patiently waiting for him. At
one place the boys, for several successive days, had
been teasing him. At length, after he had borne the
annoyance until his patience was exhausted, he sud-
denly reared, as if intending to spring upon them.
The boys were frightened, and ran behind the building.
After remaining there a little time, they crept timidly
out, when the horse again sprang toward them, and
drove them back. After this was repeated several times,
Blackie concluded that he would hide, too. He went
around the other side of the building, and remained
until the boys appeared. "While they were looking
about, wondering if he were gone, he suddenly leaped
at them from his hiding place. This play of hide and
go seek by Blackie and the boys was repeated on sev-
eral occasions, and it was so amusing that many were
attracted to witness it.
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES. 51
It was with deep sorrow that Mr. Saflbrd felt obliged
to part with so faithful a servant, when he became old
and blind. Twenty years afterward he said, " I have
sometimes regretted that I had not paid his board and
kept him in my possession, although perfectly useless
to me, until his death."
About this time Mr. Safford took a long lease of the
property on the corner of Devonshire Street and
Spring Lane, then his place of business. The ques-
tion whether he should lease or purchase it had been
for some time under consideration. There was a
strong probability that the value of this property
would greatly increase ; but his aversion to being in
debt prevailed. It was with him an established rule
never to contract a debt which he might not be able
to pay.
The number of men in his employment varied from
twenty to fifty. In his intercourse with them lie was
kind, but firm. Tho order and discipline of the shop
during working hours were strict. No profane or
improper language was allowed. Long before the
temperance movement was commenced, Mr. Safford,
as has been already seen, had practically adopted its
principles. He saw and felt that the habit of drinking
ardent spirits was a great evil. But how to meet it in
the case of his workmen, for whom he was especially
responsible, was a difficult question. They considered
themselves as much entitled to their " grog " as to
their wages. He first proposed to substitute beer, and
placed in the cellar a barrel of it, to which they all had
access. He next persuaded them to exchange the
beer for milk. At last he adopted the plan of paying
each man an equivalent in money for the liquor, when
52 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPFORD.
he settled with him at the close of the week. This
measure proved more satisfactory than either of the
others. A few years later, when the evils of intem-
perance began to be publicly discussed, and total ab-
stinence societies to be formed, he invited all his work-
men to meet in his own house, and listen to an address
from Rev. Dr. Edwards, then a distinguished advo-
cate of this cause. He set before them the dangers of
the temperate drinker in his usual plain and earnest
manner ; after which the men formed themselves into
a temperance society, every one of them signing the
pledge.
Mr. Safford made himself acquainted with the habits
of his workmen, both in and out of the shop. If he
learned that one was guilty of immoral practices, he
embraced the earliest opportunity for a private inter-
view, and kindly but faithfully urged an immediate
reformation. If this did not follow, the man, however
valuable his services were to him, was dismissed. Nor
did he rest content with this. Pie sought even more
earnestly their spiritual welfare, and did not cease to
pray and labor for their salvation. One who in early
life was apprenticed to him, and subsequently became
a partner in the business, says, " I can never express
what I owe to Mr. Safford's example, and to his efforts
for my welfare. It was a conversation which he had
with me by the door of the shop, after the business of
the day was closed, and the other workmen had re-
tired, together with his prayers for me, which availed
to bring me to Christ." This man is now a respected
officer of a church in the suburbs of the city.
Another says, " I never hear the name of this good
man mentioned but it stirs up within me the most
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES. 53
pleasant emotions. When I first came to Boston, I
applied for work to Deacon Saffbrd, and was successful.
He was employing at that time more than fifty work-
men. Soon afterward, I joined a company of young
men who spent their evenings in dissipation. One
Saturday evening, as the men came forward to receive
their pay, Mr. Safford asked me to stand aside and
wait a moment. After all the cithers had gone away,
he turned to me, and in one of the most faithful and
earnest exhortations I ever heard, urged me to aban-
don my course of life at once, as my only hope of suc-
cess in this world, or of salvation in that which is to
come. During his remarks he recounted the history
of many individuals, whom he had seen commence
life in Boston with much promise, but who, following
the same course I was then pursuing, had brought
ruin upon themselves, and disgrace upon their friends.
The conversation ended with a solomn prayer. It was
the turning point in my life. I at once abandoned my
evil associates, and avoided the theater ; and from that
hour my prospects brightened. This is not all. When
thrown into the company of irreligious men, that con-
versation and its infinite worth to me have many times
occurred to my mind, and led me to try to imitate it."
As has been already intimated, his business was not
that of the ordinary blacksmith. There were parts of
it which required much skill and taste, such as the
constructing of doors, locks, and safes, for banks.
Many of the ornamental iron fences, balconies, and
verandas first constructed in Boston, were not only
of his workmanship, but the patterns were of his
device. His work was sent to different parts of this
and other countries. He introduced hot-air iron fur-
54 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
naces for warming dwelling houses and large build-
ings, of which the first used iii the Capitol at Wash-
ington was one. He invented some articles, and im-
proved others, which came into extensive use. He was
sometimes urged to take out patents on these ; but he
always said, " No ; I choose that all shall be at lib-
erty to use my inventions. If the public are ben-
efited, I am satisfied." He entered into many large
contracts with the city, and with other corporations ;
among them one for the iron work in Quincy Market,
and another for that in the House of Industry. His
last large engagement with the city was for the build-
ing of the iron fence around the Common. This he
executed in connection with his former partner, Mr.
Adams, more than fifteen years after the dissolution of
their copartnership. Mr. Adams had continued in a
prosperous business of the same kind, and Mr. Safford
was ever scrupulously careful to avoid competition
with him. Indeed, he always avoided every thing like
competition with his fellow-mechanics. When pro-
posals were solicited for these and similar large con-
tracts, he would not underbid others, nor descend to
any unfair means to procure the work. In making an
estimate, he carefully acquainted himself with the cost
of proper materials, and of the requisite labor, and
then added what he regarded as a fair profit. Nor did
he desire any engagements which were only to be had
upon less honorable terms.
Mr. Safford never allowed himself to be insulted.
A builder in the city, who had acquired eminence and
influence, and whose favor was much sought by me-
chanics, on account of the business it was in his power
to furnish, in fulfilling large contracts found it for
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES. 55
his interest to employ Mr. Safford. The man was
haughty, overbearing, often passionate, and withal very
profane ; but these peculiarities were borne with by
many who wished to obtain his work. One day his
large figure was seen in the door of Mr. Safford's shop.
In a loud voice, and with an oath, he called out, " You
son of a Vulcan, why is not the work done on those
buildings?" The shop was large, and Mr. Safford
was in a remote part of it. All the men paused in
their work, and fixed their eyes on him. They had
never seen him lose his temper ; but this was a severe
test, and the interest was intense to see how he would
bear it. He remained silent for a moment. The man
spoke again at the top of his voice, repeating the same
words. Mr. Safford turned and walked toward him,
and with calm dignity replied, " Mr. , such lan-
guage as that can not be allowed in my shop. I have
always treated you as a gentleman, and I expect the
same treatment from you in return. The work is in
progress, and will be completed at the time agreed
upon ; but if we must receive such language from you,
I prefer that in future you should get your work done
at another place." The workmen did not fail to
notice the very deferential manner in which this per-
son ever after addressed Mr. Safford, and were pleased
to see that they received from him more orders for
work than before.
The only respect which Mr. Safford valued was that
inspired by true worth of character. This he aimed
to attain in his calling, choosing to be known, at home
and abroad, as a blacksmith. On one occasion, after
he had retired from business, he said, " I was never at
any time of iny life ashamed of my trade, nor to be
56 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
seen working at it. I have always regarded any hon-
est employment, by which a person may earn a living,
as respectable, and I can see nothing in it degrading
to any man. I can not say that I have not aimed to
be at the head of -my profession, but have never enter-
tained for a moment the wish to change my business,
as I have sometimes been advised to do by friends, for
one which in the eyes of many might be more respec-
table ; choosing to be, as the proverb is, ' a king
among beggars rather than a beggar among kings.'
Of late years, since I have retired from business, it has
sometimes happened that a lawyer, in drawing up legal
instruments, has proposed to write ' Daniel Safford,
gentleman,' as is common in such cases, and has
sometimes done so ; but I always disliked it, preferring
to be designated by my former calling."
After it was almost forgotten that he ever labored
with his own hands, he received, at different times,
proposals from mercantile gentlemen to invest capital
with them in business. Reflecting upon the risk which
this would involve, he one day remarked to Mrs. Saf-
ford, " Should I lose all, and it should be necessary, I
could return to the anvil, wife, and just as cheerfully
as ever earn our bread in that way. It might be a
little severe at first, but this arm has not lost its power,
and, I think, not its skill." This had been proved not
long before. When the Lowell Railroad was in process
of construction, it became necessary, not imfrequently,
to weld together two of the iron rails. Inquiry was
made of Mr. Safford if this could be done. He said
it could, and directed some of his most experienced
men to undertake it. The foreman in the forging
department pronounced the thing impossible. He
BUSINESS OPERATIONS AND PRINCIPLES. 57
said they could not get up a welding heat in that shop
sufficient to do it, and that it would be foolish to
attempt it. Mr. Safford, still insisting that it could be
done, at length said, " You do not intend to compel
me to take hold myself do you ? " "I should like
to see you try it," replied the foreman, in a somewhat
defiant tone. Mr. Safford knew that there was an
Englishman in the shop who could do it, but he was
not willing to have his foreman beaten by him. He
ordered a man to the bellows, laid aside his coat, called
for a leather apron, and took his stand at the anvil.
Four men on each side of him supported the rails. The
men had never before seen him in this position, and
stood by, laughing among themselves, and expecting
to witness his failure. He quietly worked on, until, to
the astonishment of all, and the extreme mortification
of the foreman, the work was successfully completed.
Contented with the wise allotments of Providence,
Mr. Safford knew not the feelings of jealousy, which
many in the working classes entertain respecting those
who occupy a position in society higher than them-
selves. He cherished a noble magnanimity toward men
in every station; and gladly gave honor to whom honor
was due. He respected man, of whatever color or
nation, as a brother, even though clothed in rags.
His kindness to all classes was proverbial. He pos-
sessed that good sense, and had acquired those habits
of close observation, which enabled him to judge cor-
rectly of character. If he met with persons who, on
account of their wealth, arrogantly claimed undue
deference, he pitied them. He never courted the
favor of those who were elevated by office or wealth,
or sought to gain consideration by any connection with
58 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
them. It was not thus he aimed to rise in the world.
But when, from time to time, he found himself unex-
pectedly occupying positions which were new to him,
whatever they might be, he always seemed to be en-
tirely at home in them. He knew just where he
stood, and that it was on a solid foundation. Con-
scious that his aim was not to establish a reputation
among men, but to be good and to do good, he was
very little affected by what others thought or said of
his course.
CONNECTION WITH THE SALEM CHURCH. 59
CHAPTER V.
CONNECTION WITH THE SALEM CHURCH.
Organization of the Church. Chosen Deacon. View of his official Duties.
Love for his Brethren. Attachment to the Pastor, Rev. J. Edwards.
Kindness shown to his Family.
A GROWING interest in evangelical religion led to the
belief that a new Congregational church should be
organized in the northern part of the city. To com-
mence this enterprise a number of persons were desig-
nated by the other churches, among whom was Mr.
Safford. At the first meeting of the new church he
was elected deacon, and appointed one of the com-
mittee for calling a pastor. He was inducted into
office, with two associates, on the second Sabbath in
January, 1828 the Sabbath following the installation
of the pastor.
Mr. Safford's estimate of himself was such that he
would never have sought this office. Many years
later, after he had served in a similar capacity in three
other churches, he one evening remarked, on returning
home from a meeting for prayer and conference, over
which he had presided, " I ought not to be in this
place. There are men in the church Mr. and
others more competent to edify people than I am."
Deeming it, however, a call of God, he did not refuse
to obey it, and enter at once, with his customary
60 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
fidelity, upon its duties. Visiting " the widow and
fatherless in their affliction," and ministering to those
who needed sympathy and relief, were no new em-
ployments to him ; but he now adopted them as part
of his daily routine of duty. One who was subse-
quently associated with him in this office writes,
" Deacon Safford cherished a profound sense of the
dignity and responsibilities of the office, and discharged
its duties with unsparing zeal and devote dness, al-
though diffident and distrustful of himself. Like the
seven who were appointed to attend to such business
as encumbered the apostles, that they might give
themselves continually to prayer and to the ministry
of the word, he made it his first duty to perform any
service that would relieve or assist his pastor. His
watehfulness for opportunities to cU} this was so con-
stant, and his perception and judgment so accurate,
that a thing was often done by him before it would
occur to another that any thing needed to be done.
"It often devolved upon him in person to solicit
contributions for charitable objects ; and this he did in
such a pleasant way that all were glad to see him
coming, even when they knew it was to ask for money
which they could, perhaps, ill afford to give.
" His visits to the sick and the afflicted were marked
by gentleness and sympathy. He possessed great skill
in gaining their confidence, and knew better than most
men how to afford relief."
One of the objects which Mr. Safford strove to
accomplish was to induce people to attend upon the
services of the sanctuary. "Never shall I forget,"
remarked another, " after having mentioned one day
to Mr. Safford the name of a family in the neighbor-
CONNECTION WITH THE SALEM CHURCH. 61
hood of Salem Church, who I thought might be drawn
to the house of God if efforts were made to that effect,
the promptness and zeal with which he attended to
the case, looking them up himself, and persevering in
his exertions until they were all established as constant
attendants on divine worship."
On one occasion, when a series of meetings was
about to be held, he looked around to see whom he
could induce to attend them. Among others, he in-
vited a widow lady, with three young daughters, who
were dependent in part on their needle for support.
The mother reasonably objected that they could not
afford to give their time to meetings during the week.
He asked her how much they could earn in the given
time. She told him, and he said, " Let your daughters
come to these meetings, and I will see that you do not
lose by it." They went, and were converted, and sub-
sequently filled important positions both in social life
and in the church.
He regarded the family of Christ as his own family.
It was his custom to keep a list of the members of the
church, and to cultivate a personal acquaintance with
each ; loving those united with him in these sacred
bonds " with a pure heart fervently." He supplied
the immediate necessities of the poor from his own
purse, and with this never failed to point them to the
full fountain of Christ's love, from which he himself
drank so deeply.
The pastor who had been called to the charge of
this infant church was the Rev. Justin Edwards, of
Andover. At this time his health was found to have
been so much impaired by his former labors, that it
was deemed inexpedient for his family to remove
6
62 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
immediately to Boston. They were accordingly placed
for the time in Dorchester, and he himself allowed to
pass the summer at Saratoga Springs. In these cir-
cumstances, Mr. Safford assumed the care of the fam-
ily ; or, as Mrs. Edwards said, " He adopted us. He
was present at the house in Dorchester to receive our
goods, and did not leave us until they were all ar-
ranged, aiding himself in the work through the entire
day." It is with much gratitude that Mrs. Edwards
remembers his kind attentions during this season of"
trial, while among strangers, in delicate health, with
the sole care of her young children, and burdened
with anxiety for her husband.
The approach of Blackie and his master always sent
a thrill of joy through the house the little boys
vied with each other in their efforts to get first to the
gate and open it ; and were often permitted to perfom
the no less agreeable service of relieving the chaise
of its contents, consisting of nice fruits of the season,
and other " good things." One instance of Mr. Saf-
ford's kindness made an abiding impression on the
minds of these boys. He took them in his carriage
into the city, and purchased for each a new pair of
boots the first they had ever possessed. He could
never forget their manifestations of delight as they
passed through the street leaping by his side, and
filling his heart with a joy equal to their own.
" On the removal of the family to the city, in the
autumn," Mrs. Edwards writes, " he was at the house
in Sheafe Street, to receive us again, and to render
the needed assistance. After the furniture was ar-
ranged, he perceived that some additional articles were
wanting to render the parlors comfortable and attrac-
CONNECTION WITH THE SALEM CHURCH. 63
tive, and saying nothing to any one, he went and
ordered them, paying the bill himself. Thus, with his
kindness ever wakeful and active, he provided for our
good, during our residence in Boston, many comforts,
which are still gratefully remembered. When the ill
health of my husband rendered it necessary for him
to resign his charge and return to Andover, our dwell-
ing here was, at his expense, handsomely painted, and
furnished with window blinds. These and many other
acts seemed to be done by him with the same interest
with which he would have done them for his own family,
expecting and wishing for nothing in return. During
the absence of my husband most of the time for seven
years, our dwelling was often cheered by his presence ;
and whenever we entered his own, we were sure to be
met with a smile which gave full proof that his heart
meant what his lips uttered ' I am glad to see you.'
To be ever greeted with kind looks and other expres-
sions of a sincere and sympathizing heart, in this cold,
selfish world, we have felt to be no small favor from
the Lord.
" Throughout his life my children received from him
numerous acts of kindness. For many months, while
attending school in the city they had a home in his
house. At the time when my husband was appointed
President of the Theological Seminary at Andover,
he made important repairs upon the house we were
to occupy, and procured the additional furniture
requisite."
In completing her narrative of the kindness received
from him by her husband and family through his life,
Mrs. Edwards adds, " In 1855, he, with my sons,
selected a monument for my husband, the expense
64 MEMOIR OP DANIEL 8AFFORD.
of which was mostly defrayed by contributions from
his acquaintances and friends. His usual good taste
and judgment were manifest in this. Though now in
declining health, the care of its transportation and
erection was, at his own request, left to him. He not
only superintended the labor, but wrought with his
own hands day after day, until the work was com-
pleted. . . .
" It was affecting to witness how constantly he em-
ployed himself for the good of others, even in illness
and weakness. During the last summer of his life, he
gathered in his daily rides materials for a rustic gate
for our garden hedge. This he constructed himself,
in his own house in Boston, spending several days in
the work. We received it by express, with the hinges
upon it, ready to be put in its place. There it still
remains more than six years afterward opposite
our windows, reminding us daily that we once had
such a friend and brother.
"From many rooms in our dwelling his fervent
prayers have ascended to the Giver of all good for his
blessing to rest upon us ; and oh, how many, many
dwellings have shared in the same sincere and heart-
felt supplications !
" May his mantle, with the blessing of Heaven, rest
upon his family and posterity to the latest generation."
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 65
* CHAPTER VI.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED.
Marriage to Miss Abby Jane Bigelow. Visit to her Parents. Dominie.
Mr. Safford, " the Minister's Friend." Rev. Dr. Cornelius. Birth of
a Son. Death of his Wife. Views of Mourning Apparel. Extracts
from Correspondence.
WE have related the circumstances in which Mr.
Safford's acquaintance with Rev. Mr. Edwards's family
commenced. The kindness so gratefully acknowledged
by Mrs. Edwards was at first prompted solely by his
regard for his pastor, and the cause for which he was
laboring. That attachment was now to be strength-
ened by the formation of a tenderer tie. On the 25th
of December, 1828, he was married to Miss Abby Jane
Bigelow, of Colchester, Connecticut, sister of Mrs.
Edwards.
Miss Bigelow had professed religion six years before,
at the age of twenty. Her temperament was placid,
and her tastes were simple. Being little disposed to
enter into fashionable life, it was her delight now to be
introduced by her husband to those members of the
church who could be comforted or aided by her, and
share with him the pleasure of doing good.
The wedding had taken place in Boston, at the resi-
dence of Mr. Edwards, where Miss Bigelow was on a
visit to her sister. Though the approbation of her
6
66 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
aged parents had been sought and bestowed, yet four
months of her married life passed ere they had an
opportunity of seeing him who almost seemed to have
taken their daughter by stealth, she having left them
apparently only for a few weeks, and often having said,
" I shall be the one, of all the six, to stay at home and
take care of you." But now, on a loveljj spring morn-
ing, Blackie was seen wending his way through their
quiet village. He first stopped at the house of her
sister, Mrs. T. ; who, with her husband, accompanied
them to the old mansion, feeling no small interest in
witnessing the first greeting between the parents and
the son. A visit of a few days fully satisfied them
respecting their daughter's choice ; and their esteem
for him increased ever afterward while they lived.
During this first visit to Colchester, he made an-
other acquaintance, which, as illustrative of his
character, deserves to be mentioned. It was with
" Dominie," an old negro who lived alone in a little
hut on the edge of a wood, some distance from the
village. Many yet living remember him as spinning
worsted in their fathers' families, when they were chil-
dren, and singing as he spun,
" Oh, when shall I see Jesus,
And reign with him above,
And from this flowing fountain
Drink everlasting love ?
When shall I be delivered
From this vain world of sin,
And, with my blessed Jesus,
Drink endless pleasures in ? "
But now, too old to spin, he spent his time, when able,
in going about to stimulate Christians to a higher
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 67
piety, and to warn the impenitent of their danger.
When too feeble for this, he, alone in his hut, occupied
himself with his Bible, and in prayer and praise. Mr.
Safford made him a visit, and enjoyed an hour of de-
lightful Christian communion with him. His furni-
ture consisted of a bed, a chair, a table, and his spin-
ning wheel, which now bore as strong marks of age as
himself. And often he knew not whence his next meal
was to come, except that Elijah's God would provide
it. But he sung with as much heart as ever, -
" I need not go abroad for joy,
Who have a feast at home ;
My sighs are turned into songs
The Comforter is come."
And Mr. Safford felt that, if he had the wealth of a
world at his command, he would not venture essentially
to change Dominie's situation. He gave him a small
sum to furnish present necessaries, and left an order
at a store for his annual supplies a deed which the
Master doubtless accepted as done to himself. It was
not long, however, that Dominie needed this aid.
Inquiring after him on a subsequent visit, he learned
that a neighbor had one day called at Dominie's hut,
and finding him very sick, had removed him to his own
house, where ho was tenderly nursed and cared ibr
until his death. The poor spinner, of a despised race
on earth, had gone to be a prince in the kingdom of
glory.
Mr. Safford now began to be commonly known as
the minister's friend, and a helper in every good cause.
Three sisters of his wife had married clergymen : the
llcv. J. Edwards, his own pastor, Rev. J. Reid, of
68 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
Reading, and Rev. W. Gale, then of Eastport, Maine,
whom he seemed to receive in place of the three
brothers he had lost. In a letter addressed to Mrs.
Edwards, Dec. 16, 1832, he writes thus :
" I have often considered the transaction which took
place in your house in Sheafe Street, four years ago,
as the most important event in my history. It con-
nected me with a family circle whose example and
precepts have been a great benefit to me, and would
have been much greater were I not so slow to learn.
I love to follow the chain of providences connected
with it down to the present time. If, during the
absence of your husband, whom I love and respect
more than any man now living, I can serve you in any
way, I hope you will use all the freedom you would
with an own brother."
As his acquaintance with the religious world ex-
tended, he began to take larger and more compre-
hensive views of the work which Christ has com-
mitted to his people. He felt more deeply his re-
sponsibility as a steward, soon to be called to account
for his use of the talents intrusted to him, and com-
menced keeping an exact account of his family and
charitable expenses. Letters written by Mrs. Safford
at this period, descriptive of their housekeeping, show
that much economy was used in providing for their
table, as well as in furnishing the house, in order that
they might have more to give to the cause of be-
nevolence.
" Dr. Cornelius," she writes, " preached economy to
us while here, and we have been considering whether
it would not be right for us, as Christians, to dispense
with many of the luxuries of the table in which we
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 69
have been accustomed to indulge, and devote the
money to charitable objects. All that we have belongs
to the Lord ; and should we not learn to eat to live,
and not live to eat ? We think so, and are trying the
experiment of living very simply."
Dr. Cornelius was, during the first winter after Mr.
Safford's marriage, a frequent and welcome guest at
his table. A strong and mutual attachment was
formed between them, and after his death the inter-
course and instructive conversation of this eminent
man were remembered in the family with much
delight.
On the 1st of April, 1830, he first experienced
the joy of embracing a son of his own. This seemed
to complete his domestic bliss. But alas! six weeks
only had passed in the mutual enjoyment of this
new gift, when God revealed to them his will that the
mother must die. Who can tell how crushing was the
burden thus laid upon his servant ? Only seventeen
months had she been his, and daily had their union
seemed blessed anew by Heaven. He sought for a
place to weep, and poured out his soul before the
Lord. With strong crying and many tears he prayed
for her life, for his sake and for that of the helpless
infant. At length his bleeding heart submitted ; iior
did he leave the place until he could say, in humble
imitation of the Sufferer in Gethsemane, " Not my
will, but thine, be done."
The summons did not find Airs. Safford unprepared
to meet it. Her first anxiety, as was natural, was
for her babe ; and when her sister, Mrs. T., promised
to receive and educate him as her own, her mind
was at rest, and she bowed meekly to the appointment
70 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD,
of her Father. She did not, however, for a time,
enjoy as she desired the consciousness of her Saviour's
presence and love. Her life "was reviewed with severe
scrutiny, and compared with the purity of heaven.
" How can I," she exclaimed, " who have so little
sought the glory of God, hope to enter that holy
world ! " She could not see, as others did, that this
very jealousy of herself was an evidence of true piety ;
nor did she remember that salvation is a boon not to
be merited by works, but received with humble faith
as the gift of God to sinners.
When the last struggle came, after she had left
many touching messages for her friends, her hus-
band asked her, " Can you commit your soul to God ? "
She answered quickly, and with emphasis, " Oh, yes ;
and you and the babe too." Then summoning her
little strength, she said, " Christ is my Friend." And
again, with emphasis, " Oh, how good Christ is ! " This
was what her husband had prayed for. The Saviour
was with her in this trying moment, and the chamber
of death, illumined by his presence, became as the
gate of heaven. The friends who surrounded her
exclaimed, almost involuntarily, " death, where is
thy sting ? " A few moments more, and the sufferer
was at rest for ever.
At the funeral, Mr. Safford stood at the head of her
coffin, and with an unfaltering voice united with the
friends in singing the hymn,
" Unveil thy bosom, faithful tomb ;
Take this new treasure to thy trust,
And give these sacred relics room
To slumber in the silent dust.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 71
" Nor pain, nor grief, nor anxious fear
Invade thy bounds ; no mortal woes
Can reach the peaceful sleeper here,
While angels watch the soft repose.
" So Jesus slept; God's dying Son
Passed through the grave, and blessed the bed.
Rest here, blest saint, till from his throne
The morning break, and pierce the shade.
" Break from his throne, illustrious morn !
Attend, O earth, his sovereign word !
Restore thy trust a glorious form
Called to ascend and meet the Lord."
The views of Mr. Safford under this severe stroke *
may best be ascertained from his correspondence with
his friends ; some extracts from which are subjoined.
" You ask me to write and tell you about myself,
and more of our dear Jane. About myself I can not
tell you so that you can fully understand me. If you
should be called to part with your dear husband, you
would better know my feelings than by any description
of them. I feel as though a large part of myself were
gone, a strong cord which bound me to earth broken,
and another motive held up before me, to give all dili-
gence to make my calling and election sure. If I
should suffer myself to sit down and dwell upon those
* The custom of wearing mourning apparel at the death of friends
had been often considered by Mr. Safford. Having himself been
repeatedly visited by bereavement, he had had ample opportunity to
observe the effects of this custom ; and while desirous, so far as was
proper, to conform to the usages of society, he saw, as he thought,
important reasons why Christians should make no change in their
apparel on such occasions. His wife had concurred in his views, and
requested that they might be observed at this time ; which was done.
72 MEMOIK OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
nameless little kind words and looks which were so
interesting to me, and which I can hear and see no
more for ever, I should be quite overwhelmed. But
there are views to be taken of her life, sickness, and
death, which are calculated to stimulate me to greater
activity. In health she was punctual and constant in
the performance of duty, making religion the object to
which all others must yield. In sickness, she was
patient and submissive ; in death, peaceful and happy.
Oh, my sister, how ought we to love and adore that
Saviour who manifested himself so sweetly to our dear
friend, at the trying hour when all other helpers failed,
when her physician stood by without offering any
assistance, and when friends gazed in silence, waiting
for her happy spirit to take its upward flight ! I love
to linger on the scene ; to remember how calmly she
committed her babe and her husband to God; how
sweetly she spoke of the love of Christ, while I waited
with my ear upon her heart to hear its last beating,
even after the pulse ceased. Angels, I thought, were
waiting to bear her soul with rapid flight to Abraham's
bosom. It was a solemn and delightful hour. Heaven
seemed almost within reach.
" A favorite text of hers was, ' Looking to Jesus.'
Often, as I went to her bedside in her sickness, she
said, ' You must keep looking to Jesus.' Yes, my dear
sister, let us continue looking to Jesus, through his
word and his providence, until we be changed into his
image."
" My loss is in part made up by the kind interest
which her friends take in my welfare and happiness,
73
favoring me so frequently with letters, and giving me
so much evidence that I am remembered by them in
their prayers. I sometimes think my loss is even more
than made up to me by the views which God, in his
infinite mercy and kindness, is pleased to grant me of
his glorious character and government. When I con-
template the great God, seated upon the throne of the
universe, governing suns and systems, the numberless
worlds that he has made, and then think of the in-
terest he takes in the inhabitants of this planet, this
little speck in the universe, manifested so wonderfully
in sending his dear Son to die for those who have
rebelled against him ; and think of the care he takes
of every inhabitant of this world, especially of his own
dear children, watching over them by day and by
night, and seeing that nothing docs them any harm,
but that all things work together for their good ; when
1 take this view of God, I feel that he is all, and I am
nothing ; that it becomes me not only to acquiesce,
but to rejoice in all he does, and inquire only, ' Lord,
what wilt thou have me to do ? ' What a glorious
hope the gospel presents the hope of being with and
like Christ ; of being entirely delivered from sin, and
every temptation to sin ; the hope of meeting Abra-
ham, Isaac, and Jacob, the prophets, apostles, and
martyrs, our dear Jane, and all who ever have died, or
ever will die, in the Lord, and joining them in an ever-
lasting song of praise to God and the Lamb !
41 ' Oli, glorious hour ! Oh, blest abode !
I .shall bo near and like my God,
And flesh and sin no more control
The sacred pleasures of my soul.'
7
74 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
" Seeing we hope for such things, dear brother and
sister, what manner of persons ought we to be in all
holy conversation and godliness ! "
" Since I wrote you last, another year has closed
an eventful one to us both, but especially to me. The
last day of the year was observed by our church as a
day of humiliation and prayer. The last of the pre-
ceding year was observed in the same way, and a very
solemn and interesting day it was. We considered it
the commencement of the revival. At our last meet-
ing, one of the brethren remarked, that since we met
a year ago, three of our number had, he trusted, gone
to heaven, one of whom then occupied one of these
seats, and united her prayers and praises with us. I
was so much affected by the thought that I should see
her face no more on earth, that in attempting to speak
I found it difficult to control my feelings. My mind
soon became composed and comforted by reflecting
that she was now in the presence of that dear Friend
who manifested himself so sweetly in the dying hour;
and that she was in far holier and happier society
than Salem Church, her capacities enlarged, and her
voice joining with the redeemed in heaven in praising
him who loved her, and washed her garments white
in his precious blood.
' f I suppose you wish to hear something about little
D. B. Safford, and I want as much to tell you about
Mm. If I had the power of description which some of
his aunts have, I would place him before you, running
about, with his little hands up and his mouth wide
open, laughing with all his might, and showing his
white teeth, of which he has four ; getting hold of a
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 75
chair, shaking it, and jumping until he gets tired, or
sitting on the floor with his playthings ; then creeping
to a chair or sofa, and raising himself up without help,
an exploit of which he is quite proud. I often wish
his aunts E. and M. could see him performing his little
feats, of which he has some new one every day ; and
think, too, with tearful eyes, how pleased his mother
would have been, if her life had been spared, to see
his little nameless, engaging looks and actions, and to
witness his father's delight in him. But then I chide
myself, and remember how much more she is pleased
now."
Not only did he thus speak of his own sorrows, and
the consolations afforded him under them, but lie took
care to improve this afflictive event in addressing
solemn admonitions to relatives who made no profes-
sions of personal religion. One of these addresses to
a brother of his wife was as follows :
"February 17, 1831.
" MY DEAR BROTHER : I thank you for your two
letters which I recently received, especially for the one
giving an account of the revival in your city. I hope,
my dear friend, and almost believe, that ere this you are
rejoicing in the love of Christ, and prepared to tell me
in your next what God has done for your soul. But
if not, let me entreat you as for your life, your eternal
life, to go to Christ without delay, with all your sins,
remembering that ' he came not to call the righteous,
but sinners, to repentance.' If you wait to make your-
self better before you go, you will be like the woman
in the gospel who spent all she had upon physicians,
76 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse.
Like her you must, if you are ever saved, cast your-
self at the feet of Jesus.
" You say you are determined to attend all the meet-
ings you can. This is right, and I am rejoiced to learn
that you are so determined ; but this is not all. You
must take time for reading the Bible, for serious med-
itation upon the holy character of God ; upon the love
which Christ manifested in leaving the throne of glory
and coming to this sinful world, to suffer and die for
his enemies ; upon the kind invitations of the gospel ;
upon the glories of heaven and the woes of hell ;
upon the incalculable value of your soul, which is to
exist, either in a state of unceasing suffering or of
happiness, for ever and ever. All these motives, and
many more, are presented in the Bible, to induce men
to forsake sin and turn to God. You should also take
time for frequent seasons of secret prayer, especially
to pray that the Holy Spirit may be sent to convince
you of your sins, and guide you to Christ, ' the Lamb
of God, who taketh away the sins of the world.'
" There is another difficulty, growing out of your
extensive connection with fashionable and polite so-
ciety, to which, I apprehend, you are peculiarly ex-
posed. There may be society into which it would be
safe and proper for a Christian to go, that would be
dangerous and improper for one who is seeking the
salvation of his soul. Whatever tends to divert the
attention from religion, and dissipate serious thought,
should be carefully avoided at such a time as this.
" I have feared, my dear brother, that you wish to
hold the world fast in one hand, and get religion (if
you can) with the other ; but remember, you can not
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 77
serve God and Mammon. Therefore l choose ye this
day whom ye will serve." I think that this is a very
critical period with you one which will probably
determine your eternal destiny.
" I have addressed you in a very plain and unre-
served manner, as I should not dare to address any
but a friend who would appreciate my motive. If it
requires any apology, it may be found in the deep
solicitude I feel in your eternal welfare.
" That you may find that joy and peace in believing
which the world can not give nor take away, is the
earnest desire and prayer of
Yours affectionately,
DANIEL SAFFOBD."
7*
78 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPFORD.
CHAPTER VII.
CORRESPONDENCE.
Marries Mrs. Mary S. Boardman. Her Death. Letter to Mr. and Mrs.
Gale. To Mr. and Mrs. Turner. Deatli of Mr. Turner. Letter to
Mr. and Mrs. Gale. To his little Son. Encounter with a drunken
Man. Religion in traveling-. Letter to a Brother in Law. The
latter's Estimate of his Character. Winter Night Hide. His Bible
Class. Anxiety for the Conversion of his Family. Formation of a
Legislative Temperance Society. State Fast. Purchase of a House.
Marriage to Mrs. Turner.
AFTER the death of his wife, Mr. Safford placed two
of the orphan children whom he had adopted in
boarding schools, and one in a store in the city, while
lie himself continued with his aged mother and infant
son at housekeeping. On the 27th of April, 1831, he
married Mrs. Mary S. Boardman, formerly Miss Smith,
of Reading. She had been a school associate, and
subsequently a correspondent, of his late wife. His
friends were happy in seeing him united again to one
so well qualified to be both a companion to himself and
a mother to his child. She entered cheerfully on the
duties of the latter relation ; and, so far as her del-
icate health would permit, continued most conscien-
tiously to discharge them as long as she lived. In
one year and three months after their marriage, she
too was taken from his side, leaving an infant son, who
was called George Blagden, for their pastor. The
father, in a letter written soon after her death, says,
CORRESPONDENCE. 79
" She expressed a strong presentiment that our con-
nection would not long continue. I think the subject
of death was very familiar to her before our marriage,
and I know it has been since. During my acquaint-
ance with her, she exhibited a truly Christian char-
acter, a consistent deportment, and a sweet submission,
to the will of God in all circumstances."
To his sister-in-law, Mrs. Turner, he writes also,
" Little did I think, when parting with you last,
that I should so soon have this painful intelligence to
communicate, although even then I had my fears. My
dear Mary died about half past ten, on the 31st of
July, in the full possession of her reason, and in the
exercise of that faith which enabled her to triumph
over death and the grave. I could not at any time
discover in her the least degree of agitation or alarm,
although she was perfectly sensible of her situation.
With entire composure she exhorted David to prepare
for death, wot more than one minute before she
breathed her last.
" Her departure was so sudden that I found myself
quite unprepared for it. It was a distressing hour to
me. I had not till then considered her case to be
critical. When she was gone, I immediately went to
my chamber, where I had a severe struggle with feel-
ings which my pen can not describe, and which you
can not fully conceive without experiencing the same.
But I do hope that there my hard heart broke down
under the chastening rod, and that, by divine assist-
ance, I was enabled to commit my Mary, myself, and
my all to Him who never corrects his children will-
ingly, but always for their good. Now, while my
heart bleeds at every pore, and while I feel alone in
80 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
the world, in a sense which none fully realize who have
not lost a bosom friend, I am constrained to call on
my soul, and all that is within me, to praise the Lord
for his great goodness in giving me wives whom I
could love, whose society was so pleasant to me ; and
especially in removing from them in the last hour the
sting of death, and permitting me to indulge the
cheering hope that they are beholding the face of their
blessed Saviour without a vail. .When I think of
heaven, I involuntarily adopt the language
There my best friends, my kindred, dwell,
There God, my Saviour, reigns.'
" I earnestly desire your prayers, and those of your
husband, that these repeated afflictions may lead and
keep me near to God. In less than four years and
seven months, I have followed three dearly beloved
wives to the mansions of the dead. There their
earthly remains will rest until the morning of the res-
urrection ; when, I doubt not, that which was sown a
natural body will be raised a spiritual and glorified
body, in the likeness of our divine Saviour."
Mr. Safford kept no diary, or other record of his
religious experience, but its place is in a measure sup-
plied by his very abundant and intimate correspond-
ence with his friends. In this, particiilarly in his
letters to Mrs. Turner, whose husband was now in
declining health, we discern the feelings and experi-
ences of a servant of God, deeply afflicted, yet clinging
ever to the consolations of the gospel, and growing
more and more in the graces of humility and submis-
sion to the divine will.
CORRESPONDENCE. 81
To MR. and MRS. GALE.
" I have received your very kind letters of con-
dolence, and read them with much pleasure. It
affects me to tears, and, I hope, excites feelings of
gratitude to God, to receive such expressions of deep
sympathy from the friends of my dear Jane. How
good God has been, after taking away all my own
brothers, to give me brothers and sisters who can
so kindly enter into my feelings, and to whom I can
unbosom myself with the utmost freedom ! You are
very kind to offer to take Daniel ; but I find my attach-
ment to him is increasing daily, and can not at present
think of placing him so far from me. He is now, with
my mother and his nurse, at Mr. Reid's, in Reading.
I am alone, and take my meals at a hotel. I ought
not to ask for the time which you might employ in
doing more good, but I hope you will not neglect to
write to your lonely and afflicted, yet comforted
brother. I felt, for a few days after my wife's death, a
great reluctance to giving my mind at all to business ;
and was more inclined to shut myself up alone, and
reflect upon the dealings of God with me, or to visit
such friends as could sympathize with and aid me,
under my heavy affliction, in looking to the only source
of consolation. I remembered, however, that our
dear brother Edwards said to me, after Jane died, ' It
is not best to sit down and brood over our sorrows and
work up our feelings by thinking of our departed friends;
but rather inquire what the Lord will have us do,
as we are now situated, and when the path of duty is
made known, go steadily forward.' "When I considered
that I had eighteen or twenty men employed, and none
of them at all acquainted with taking the charge of
82 MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
business ; that we were under contract for a large
amount of work ; that my partner was sick in the
country ; and that my own health was unusually good,
it appeared plainly my duty to stay at home and
attend* to business. And without doubt I have found
more religious enjoyment than would have attended
any other course, with the conviction that I was run-
ning away from duty. Let me close by requesting an
interest in your prayers."
To MR. and MRS. TURNER.
" August 27, 1832.
" I think much of you, my dear brother and sister,
daily, knowing by experience what it is to watch the
progress of disease upon beloved friends, and a little,
though but a little, what it is to be very sick myself.
If I could say or do any thing that would in the least
benefit my dear brother's health, I would most gladly
do it. Still more would I desire to say something to
enable him to bear his trials with that Christian pa-
tience and sweet submission to the will of his heavenly
Father, of which he has already a large share ; but to
this also I feel incompetent. I will, however, relate
a little incident, which, by the blessing of God, may
prove of use to you both.
" Before Mary left Reading, I used to visit her gen-
erally twice a week. At one time when I was there,
two or three weeks before she came home, she was
very anxious to return with me ; so much so, I
thought, as to manifest a little want of submission.
As her physician and friends thought it advisable
for her to remain there rather than remove to this
noisy place, at this season of the year, I told her she
CORRESPONDENCE. 83
had better make up her mind just to float upon the
tide of Providence, wherever it carried her. She said
no more about it then. The next time I saw her, I
asked her if she wanted to go home with me then.
She replied, ' Not unless you think it best. I have
made up my mind to " float upon the tide of Prov-
idence," and have no will of my own.' From that
time she appeared indeed to glide down to the grave
upon that stream without occasioning the least ripple
upon its smooth surface ; and now, I think, she is sail-
ing in the open sea of God's eternal love, basking in
the meridian splendor of the glorious Sun of right-
eousness."
" Wednesday Eve. Here I am in solitude, with the
whole house to myself ; and I assure you it is very
pleasant. I have been out to visit brother R. this
evening. He has had a lame knee ever since last
winter. He has since spent much money upon physi-
cians, been confined to the house, and a large part of
the time to his bed. His limb is perished and cold,
and his general health is so much impaired that it is
doubtful whether he will live long. We have had a
very pleasant interview. After much conversation
upon the manner in which we ought to feel and act
under various afflictions, we came to the conclusion
that, if we felt just right, we should be careful for
nothing, but in every thing, by prayer and supplication
with thanksgiving, let our requests be made known
unto God. In other words, we should be diligent in
the use of those means which may be adapted to
remove the sufferings we endure, with prayer for the
blessing of God upon these means, and then leave the
84 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
whole so entirely with him as not to feel anxious or
distressed about the result. If we can exercise this
entire submission to God, and confidence in him when
we are sick, we shall be more likely, I think, to get
well, than if we are low-spirited and anxious about
ourselves.
" I have of late been occupied in looking at the
attributes of God, and have found it profitable. By
the help of a reference Bible I have examined some of
the passages upon each attribute. Last evening I was
led to consider his omniscience and omnipresence. If
we say he sees and knows every thing, and that he is
every where present, we say in general all that these
attributes imply. But to be profitably aifected by
them ourselves, it appears to me necessary to descend
to particulars, such as these : He sees me when I rise
in the morning, when I walk in the street, and when I
engage in business ; he knows every dishonest thought,
every unlawful desire of gain, every secret desire for
sinful gratification. Who can follow out such a train
of thought without feeling his need of being washed
all over in that fountain which alone can cleanse from
sin and pollution! David, in Ps. cxxxix., dwells on
particulars in the contemplation of this subject: be-
ginning with the formation of his body, the fearful and
wonderful manner in which it was made, in all its del-
icate parts, and going on to the thoughts and acts of
life, the impossibility of fleeing from God's presence,
or of finding any place where he might hide himself,
he might well exclaim, ' Such knowledge is too won-
derful for me ! ' Oh, how this sinks and humbles the
creature, and exalts the Creator !
" My partner, Mr. Low, has returned from his jour-
CORRESPONDENCE. 85
ney, but has given up the idea of recovery. How
many friendly warnings gather around, to remind me
of my own dissolution ! It seems as if my earthly ties
and connections were only formed to be broken. May
the condemnation of him who, being often reproved,
hardeneth his neck, not fall on me."
To MRS. TURNER.
"Bosxox, October 1, 1832.
" MY DEAR SISTER : I found in the post office to-
day yours of Saturday last, containing the painful
intelligence of the mental and bodily sufferings of your
dear husband ; and have endeavored, in compliance
with your request, as I have walked the streets, or
been engaged in business, but especially when bowing
the knee in this my place of retirement, to send up
my earnest cries to God, that he would graciously
appear for both of you in this your extremity.
" As I opened my desk just now, I saw, in your own
hand, the following lines, dated Monday morning,
June 14, 1830 : -
Still lift to God the supplicating voice,
And leave to him the measure and the choice.'
" The circumstances in which this was written you
will doubtless recollect. I well remember that, for
days, if not weeks, after you repeated them to me, they
were scarcely out of my mind.
" Although it appears to us very desirable, that those
whom we love should, on the bed of death, find the
Saviour near and precious, and bo able cheerfully to
commit their own souls, their friends, and all their
interests to him, yet I do not think that this is the
place to look for the most satisfactory evidence of their
8
86 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
Christian character. Little dependence can be placed
upon the exercises of the mind, when the poor body is
racked with pain, or reduced to great weakness.
Hence we sometimes see those who had before fur-
nished no evidence of piety, expressing a willingness,
and even a desire, to die, that they may be delivered
from their sufferings. On the other hand, some who
have for years maintained a consistent Christian char-
acter, in the near approach of death are found groping
in darkness, with only now and then a ray of light,
complaining of their ' wicked, very wicked hearts,'
and ready, as they cross Jordan, to sink beneath its
billows. How will such liberated spirits make heaven
ring with the high praises of God and the Lamb, when
they find themselves safely landed on the shores of
Canaan !
" I know not, my dear sister, whether I am writing
to one who is watching with anxious solicitude beside
the bed of a suffering, dying husband, or to one who
is sitting in passive silence, experiencing that strange
loneliness which can not be fully understood but by
those whose strongest earthly ties have been sundered ;
but in either case, the source of comfort and support
is the same. The Lord reigns, and does all things
well. I will only add the words which dear Jane
often repeated to us ' Keep looking to Jesus.' That
you and your dear husband may be prepared for all
that God, in his infinite wisdom and goodness, has
prepared for you, is the daily prayer of your affec-
tionate brother."
Mr. Turner lived but a few days after the preceding
letter was written. In that interval Mr. Safford visited
CORRESPONDENCE. 87
him, watched with him one night, and by conversation
and prayer comforted him, and strengthened his cour-
age and trust in God. His faith finally triumphed
over all fear ; and, while dying, he requested the
friends who were around his bed to sing the hymn
which closes with the verse,
" There shall I bathe my weary soul
In seas of heavenly rest,
And not a wave of trouble roll
Across my peaceful breast."
The last line had scarcely died upon the ear, before
his ransomed soul was greeted, as we trust, with
the song of the angels, amid the high praises of
heaven.
To MR. and MBS. GALE.
" October 30, 1832.
" DEAR BROTHER AND SISTER : You have doubtless
heard before this that our dear brother Turner is
no longer an inhabitant of earth. I was not pres-
ent when he died, having gone to New York ; but I
returned to Colchester the day after, and was at the
funeral. I will not attempt to give you the partic-
ulars of his last sickness and death, as you will doubt-
less have them more minutely from one who was with
him through the whole. Our dear sister is written a
widow. She feels deeply afflicted. It was to me a
great privilege to mingle my tears and prayers with
hers, on that trying occasion ; but how miserable are
all earthly comforters, without the divine Comforter !
She enjoyed, I believe, the presence of this blessed,
heavenly Friend in an uncommon degree. Brother
Asa says that nothing ever impressed his mind so
88 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
deeply with the value of religion, as seeing her, and
hearing her converse on that occasion. He said that
he was determined at any rate to know more of the
Bible. How important to have a well-grounded hope
in Christ ! When afflictions come which sink the
worldly mind in despondency and gloom, they only
serve to draw the true Christian nearer to his heavenly
Father, and thus increase his real happiness."
The following is the first letter written by Mr.
Safford to his little son Daniel, who was at the time
two and a half years old. It has been mentioned that
his mother, on her dying bed, had requested Mrs.
Turner to take the responsibility of his training. In
accordance with this request, his father, after the death
of Mr. Turner, placed the little boy under his aunt's
care.
" How do you do, my dear little son ? Do you love
your aunt, and your grandmother Bigelow, and do
every thing they request you, so that they can love
you, and tell father, when they see him, that you have
been the very best boy they ever saw ? Father hopes
you will ; and then how much he will love his little
son ! Oh, how he will hug and kiss him ! And father
wants him to think of the dear Saviour, who took little
children in his arms and blessed them, and said, ' Of
such is the kingdom of heaven.' He hopes Daniel
prays to this Saviour to help him be a good boy, so
that when he dies he can go to heaven, and be with
his dear mother and all good people, and with the dear-
Saviour, too. Will you ask your aunt to write me a
little letter for you ? Your very affectionate father."
CORRESPONDENCE. 89
The following extracts are chiefly from letters ad-
dressed to Mrs. Turner, and will serve to continue the
narrative of his life and progress in Christian expe-
rience, as delineated for the most part by himself:
" BOSTON, October 26, 1832.
" MY DEAR SISTER : On my journey home, I took
tea at Milford, thirty miles from Boston, with a com-
pany of intelligent and apparently respectable gon tie-
men, who had been overturned in the coach, and were
all more or less injured. After tea, we had a little
conversation upon the circumstances of their disaster,
and various other subjects. When this slackened, I
took out my pocket Testament, and commenced read-
ing silently. Soon after, a drunken man bolted into
the room, and, after muttering over something which
I could not understand, said, ' I believe I have made a
mistake ; this ain't the bar room,' and attempted to go
out, but was so much intoxicated that he could not
open the door. I said to him, ' You made a greater
mistake before you came in/ and then opened the
door, and let him out.
" This circumstance presented a favorable oppor-
tunity for some remarks upon the evils of intem-
perance and its kindred vices, and to recommend the
Bible as the safest guide for a man through life. To
this several of the company responded, admitting that
the subject of religion was a suitable one for strangers
to converse upon, as all mankind are equally inter-
ested in it. Then I corameijced reading again in my
Testament. One of the company, who proved to be a
theological student, said, ' Is that a Testament you are
reading in ? ' When 1 told him it was, he said, ' If the
8*
90 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
company have no objection, I should like to have some
devotional exercises.' No one objecting, we read a
chapter, and united with the gentleman who made the
suggestion in a very interesting prayer. The company,
being bruised and lame, retired early, except the stu-
dent, with whom I had a very precious season. He
was a Baptist, and, as I judge, a spiritual, devoted
Christian."
It had been Mr. Safford's custom for many years to
carry a Bible with him in traveling, and to spend his
time, when not otherwise engaged, in reading it.
Long before this, he had made a short sea voyage with
one of his brothers, whose life, it was hoped, would
thus be prolonged. They went in a packet, with a
number of passengers, and were all thrown together
in the common cabin. While the others were playing
games, or beguiling the time in amusements, he drew
his Bible from his pocket, and read it with evident
pleasure and satisfaction. We find a description of
this voyage in one of the papers of the day. The
writer says, " It was plain, from his whole aspect, that
he was reading it because he enjoyed it, and not for
the sake of setting a good example. But the sight
of this young man, absorbed in perusing God's word,
impressed more than one of that gay company with
the conviction that religion was a grave reality, and
that peace with God was worth more than treasures
of fine gold."
" November 19. My partner, Mr. Low, appears
more unwell, and keeps house to-day. What the Lord
intends to do with him is unknown to me ; but I am
CORRESPONDENCE. 91
sure he will do just right. If he should die, the loss
to me would be great ; but I doubt not it would be his
gain. We are in a dying world. Let us live to die,
that we may die to live a better life with our dear
friends and all who sleep in Jesus.
" To niy surprise, on my return I found a notice
from the city clerk, informing me that, during my
absence, I had been elected a representative to the
General Court.
" I think I desire and pray more than ever I have
done before that the Lord will direct me in all things ;
that he would guide me in little things. We need
assistance in every step we take, and we should esteem
it a great privilege that we may in all our ways ac-
knowledge him, with the blessed assurance that he
will direct our paths.
" Evening. ' Bless the Lord, my soul, and all that
is within me bless his holy name ; bless the Lord, O
my soul, and forget not all his benefits ; who forgiv-
eth all thine iniquities, who healeth all thy diseases.
He hath not dealt with us after our sins, nor rewarded
us according to our iniquities.' Do read the one
hundred and third Psalm, and let us praise the Lord
together.
" I had retired last night with a headache, and had
just fallen asleep, when the watchmen waked me by a
loud knock on the door of my house. He informed me
that my shop was on fire. Hastening to the place, I
found that some of the neighbors had extinguished
the fire before it had done much damage. Being con-
fined to my room the next day, I tried to spend as
92 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOKD.
much of the time as possible in self-examination and
prayer. But I found myself unable to get any realiz-
ing sense of God, or of the preciousness of Christ.
All seemed dark and dull. At the close of the day, I
went down to attend family prayers. While Ruth * was
reading a chapter full of precious promises, my soul
seemed to be liberated. I could not but interrupt her
repeatedly, to speak of the preciousness of those prom-
ises, and the faithfulness of God in performing them
all, in their full extent ; and when we bowed at the
family altar, I could not pray ; I had nothing to ask
God for, but every thing to thank him for. It did
appear to me then, and does now, that if he will only
give me himself, he may take away my friends, prop-
erty, health, and any thing he pleases. I can rejoice
with joy unspeakable. Oh, how inconceivable his love
and goodness to sinners, if they will repent and trust
their souls and all their interests in the hands of the
blessed Jesus! What is a creature's love compared
with that of the adorable God ! Well may angels and
glorified spirits dwell upon it unceasingly, and tune
their harps to sweetest notes of praise."
To his Brother in Law in New York.
" November 23, 1832.
" I hope, my dear brother, you will not be so anx-
ious to accumulate property as to overlook or neglect
the pearl of great price. By this I would not have
you understand me as objecting to any of your busi-
ness enterprises, for it is a twofold command, ' Not
* His niece, the surviving daughter of his brother David, who
continued in his family until her marriage in 1836.
CORRESPONDENCE. 93
slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.'
But remember, dear brother, "that diligence in business
alone will not save the soul. I take the liberty to
speak freely to you, because- 1 love you, and know that
you will receive it kindly.
" But think not that the importunity of your friends
with you or for you can be a substitute for your own
importunity at the throne of grace. The wise virgins,
whose lamps were well supplied with oil, had none to
spare for their destitute neighbors. Oh, be persuaded
to go now and buy for yourself, that you may be pre-
pared to enter in with the bridegroom ; for remember,
when the foolish virgins applied for admission, the
door was shut. Please write me, and if there is any
way in which I can serve you, you know I shall do it
with heartfelt satisfaction."
In connection with this last letter to this friend, it is
appropriate to introduce the following reply of this
Brother to a request that he would record his estimate
of Mr. Safford's character.
" MY DEAR SISTER : I feel it impossible, as you re-
quest, to write of that dear good man as I knew him,
or describe his character and image as they are en-
graven on my heart. My first acquaintance with him,
I think, was in 1828, riding from Boston to Dorchester
with him in his own chaise, and after that beautiful black
horse of his. I remember him as he then appeared,
and from his conversation at that time received a
most favorable impression of him as a gentleman
and a Christian. My recollections of him whether
as a traveler with me in steamboats, sleeping in the
94 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
same stateroom, in visiting him at his own house, or
receiving him at mine, on week days or Sabbaths, in
church or elsewhere, since that first acquaintance,
until his departure for his final, blessed rest, have
left upon my mind the impression that he was, all in
all, the most perfect man I ever knew."
To MRS. JUSTIN EDWARDS.
" MY VERY DEAR SISTER : I have just been reading
again your last three letters, for each of which you have
my hearty thanks. I am deeply affected by the expres-
sions of kindness which are so often received from the
friends, and especially from the sisters, of my dear,
departed Jane. Her memory is none the less dear to
me on account of the years which have elapsed since
she left me for a better Friend, and my dwelling for a
far happier abode. I love often to think of her as she
is now, in the presence of her dear Lord and Saviour,
who manifested himself so very precious to her in the
hour of death. I love to imagine what rapid strides
she has made in the knowledge of God, and of the
glorious plan of redemption, amid those bright scenes
where glorified spirits dwell, and which even the eye
of faith, in this life, sees but very imperfectly. While
here she thought but little of the customs and fashions
of this world, which soon pass away; but oh, how
trifling they must appear to her now !
" I hope that thoughts like these sometimes have a
sanctifying effect upon me, begetting in me stronger
desires to follow her so far as she followed Christ, And
yet I follow Christ afar off, if at all, and am some-
times astonished, and almost overwhelmed, at his long-
suffering patience with me. It does seem as if he had
CORRESPONDENCE. 95
done all that, as a moral Governor, he could do, to
bring and keep ine near to him.
" I thank him for inclining you, my dear sister, to
offer those prayers for your unworthy brother. I
think much of you, your dear husband and children,
and remember you all in my prayers, especially that
your children may be early partakers of the renewing
grace of God ; that instead of the father may be the
sons, to preach the gospel of Christ, and to plead the
cause of temperance and religion in this dying world.
At half past nine o'clock every evening you may think
of me as thus employed a season which I have set
apart particularly to pray for absent friends."
To MRS. TURNER.
" January 20, 1833.
" In order to reach home before the Sabbath, I en-
gaged Mr. C , who keeps the City Hotel, in Nor-
wich, to take me thirty miles, to meet the Hartford
stage at Ashford, at two o'clock in the morning. I
had a more pleasant journey than could have been
expected in such a cold, dark night. I found Mr.
C to be a professor of religion, and apparently an
active Christian, and, as he said, a friend to - temper-
ance, a secretary of a temperance society, and one who
had delivered addresses on the subject. I reminded
him of his great inconsistency in having his bar room
furnished with decanters of brandy, and set out with
nice oranges and apples, to attract attention, and
entice all who entered to drink of his liquid poison.
He acknowledged his inconsistency, said he had no
excuse to offer, and promised me he would put it out
of sight, and, as soon as he could, dispense with it
96 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
altogether. I shall send him some extracts of the
Fifth Eeport of the American Temperance Union, and
some copies entire, which he has promised to read and
circulate."
February 7, 1833.
" The subject of our church meeting this evening
was ' growth in grace.' The Scripture read was in
Matt. ch. 5, a part of the best sermon ever preached
in our world. What abundant cause we have to
praise the Lord that this large and edifying discourse
of our blessed Redeemer was recorded for our use !
Surely never man spake as our dear Saviour has here
spoken. Oh that our souls may be fixed in a humble,
attentive posture, to receive the law from his lips !
How well calculated was this, his first public sermon,
to correct the false notions and humble the pride of
those who were expecting in the Messiah a temporal
prince, to subdue their enemies and establish an
earthly kingdom, and thus gratify their pride and
ambition !
" Let us stir up our souls to cultivate those amiable
and delightful graces which are here recommended in
so interesting a manner to our pursuit, and accompa-
nied wifli such rich promises ; this humility and meek-
ness, this penitent sense of sin, this ardent desire after
righteousness v this purity of heart, this peaceful dispo-
sition, and this fortitude, or confidence, rather, in God,
which will support the mind through evil as well as
through good report. Then we may rejoice and be
exceeding glad in the blessed assurance that our
reward is great in heaven."
" Sabbath Eve. There has been a prayer meeting
this evening. The twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew
CORRESPONDENCE. 97
was read, which led vis to think and remark upon that
solemn and eventful day when all nations shall be
assembled before the Judge ; when the grand and last
separation shall take place between the righteous and
the wicked ; when ' these shall go away into everlasting
punishment, and the righteous into life eternal.' Not
one of the human race will then be missing, nor will
there be one idle spectator there. All will be deeply
and personally interested in the momentous events of
that day. As the punishment of the wicked is de-
clared to be everlasting, all hope of restoration, or
even of annihilation, will then be cut off. Do we be-
lieve this? And are we surrounded by impenitent
friends and neighbors ? How strange that we feel no
more, pray no more, labor no more for their conver-
sion ! Do we believe this, and are we doubtful
whether we are Christians or not ? How strange that
we can rest, till we make our calling and election sure !
Oh, what a blessed, joyful, triumphant day to the
righteous ! all doubt forever removed, all sin, all
temptation to sin at an end. What music to their
ears to hear the Judge say, ' Come, ye blessed of my
Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from
the foundation of the world.' '
To MRS. TURNER.
" February 12, 1833.
" As you have received Fisk's Bible Class Book, I
will tell you that our next lesson is on the twenty-first
page 'the moral condition and character of man-
kind.' I am in the habit, after seeking the guidance
and teaching of the Holy Spirit, of consulting com-
mentaries, Scott, Doddridgo, <fcc., on the several
98 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOKD.
passages referred to, in order to get as good an under-
standing of them as possible. When I meet the class,
which numbers from ten to fourteen, I ask the ques-
tions, and they are generally answered readily. After
each question, I read the texts referred to under it,
and ask and answer such questions as may arise, con-
verse familiarly upon them, and usually make a few
practical remarks before proceeding to the next ques-
tion. At first it was rather dull, as I had all the talk-
ing to do ; but now they are like a family circle, which
renders it very interesting to me ; and judging by their
punctual attendance, and the manner in which they
prepare their lessons, it is not less so to them. Some
of the class are members of the church ; some are
married and some single ladies ; and some, at least,
are wiser than their teacher. There are eight Bible
classes in the school, and I think they are more cal-
culated to do good than any instrumentality ever
before adopted by this church. If your church will
adopt it, I will furnish the class books.
" I have been in the habit of reading the Scriptures
from a child, but not of studying and searching them
as for hid treasures. The more I do this, the more I
arn interested in them, and the more I am convinced
that they contain mines of hidden wealth, which are
not to be found but by prayerful, careful search. I
am ashamed and astonished that I have so long pos-
sessed this invaluable treasure, and yet know so little
of its contents."
February 24, 1833.
" I have not been so well as usual, owing probably
to sitting in the Representatives' chamber, without
exercise, and to a cold, as second cause ; but to a kind
CORRESPONDENCE. 99
heavenly Father as the great first cause. He sees
that I need often to be reminded of my frailty and
entire dependence on him. This I think he has en-
abled me to realize to-day more than usual, and it is
delightful. I love to feel that my friends, my prop-
erty, my life, all I have, all I am, are in his hands, and
that he will dispose of all just as he sees fit. I kept
house to-day. I regretted being absent from my Bible
class, but do not know as I have any cause to regret it
on my own account. I have had some freedom in
private prayer, and some sensible evidence of the pres-
ence and preciousness of the blessed Saviour."
" Monday Eve., March 4. Yesterday was our com-
munion, and a truly interesting day to me. Ten
were added to the church. If I am not deceived, the
Lord Jesus vouchsafed his gracious presence, and
granted me sweet seasons of secret prayer and com-
munion with him. It did seem as if the Holy Spirit
interceded for me ' with groanings which could not
be uttered.' In the morning, after looking over my
Bible lesson, I tried, as usual, to implore the blessing
of God upon myself and the class while we should be
attending to it, and particularly to remember two
members who are not pious. For them I felt an im-
portunity I have rarely experienced. Then came up
my family, not one of whom makes any pretensions to
religion. I was deeply impressed with my responsibil-
ity as the head of such a family. Then I thought of
my dear little boys coming forward in a world of sin
and temptation ; and here, I have been so in the habit
of counting you with them, that, before I was aware, I
found myself saying ' we,' instead of ' I,' forgetting
100 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
that you were not here kneeling by my side, lifting up
your heart with me that these dear boys might early
be brought into the fold of Christ. For these several
objects I scarcely knew when to stop weeping and
praying, confessing my sins, and pleading the merits
of Christ. Oh, there is something sweet in mourning
for sins when the Saviour is near.
" In the Bible class I felt an unusual solemnity and
freedom in urging the practical improvement of the
lesson. I noticed that the two members who are not
professors of religion appeared affected, and at the
close I had personal conversation with each, and found
them anxious. I wish to engage your prayers partic-
ularly for them."
" My heart has been gladdened to-night, and still
feels the joyful impression, by the formation of a Mas-
sachusetts Legislative Temperance Society in the Rep-
resentatives' chamber. I hope I feel grateful to God
for putting it into my heart to propose it, and inclining
others to favor it. After a prayer by Mr. Blagden,
brother Edwards opened the subject by a very inter-
esting statement of facts. His address riveted every
eye, and fixed the attention of a large assembly.
After he concluded, a number of resolutions were
offered, addresses were made, the society was formed,
with the governor at its head."
" April 4. This is the day of the state fast. In the
morning, except while at family prayers, I kept my
chamber, and had a pleasant and not altogether un-
profitable season. I was enabled to confess my sins
with some penitential feeling. Christ appeared pre-
CORRESPONDENCE. 101
cious, both as the great atoning Sacrifice and the all-
prevalent Intercessor. I had unusual freedom in com-
mending you, my dear E., to our kind heavenly
Father, praying especially that you may do honor to
the religion you have professed, on your journey and
visit, and be preserved from receiving any injury from
the fashionable society into which you may be thrown.
"At the first ringing of the bell, I attended a
prayer meeting at the vestry. In the intermission, the
examining committee met at my house, finished the
business of the previous evening, and spent the rest of
the time in prayer. This evening, I have spent two
hours in prayer and conversation with a brother who
has conducted in a manner unbecoming a professed
follower of Christ. I fear the result will be his ex-
communication. Oh, how important that we should
live near to God, and guard against the first departure
from him, and take heed lest we too should fall,
wound the Saviour in the house of his friends, destroy
our own souls, and prove stumbling blocks over which
others may fall into perdition !
" You see I have not had so much time alone to-day
as is desirable on such occasions to call to mind my
numerous sins, to confess them before God one by one,
to implore his pardon for each, and to renew my cov-
enant with him. But as providential circumstances
have hindered, and the time lias been occupied as duty
seemed to dictate, I trust the day has not been spent
unprofitably."
" Yesterday I made a bargain for the house von
saw in Montgomery Place, for seven thousand dollars,
and I expect to get the deed to-morrow. 1 want you
9*
102 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
to learn all you can on this journey, and remember
every thing which you may think it best to adopt, for
I expect you to manage every thing in our domestic
concerns in your own way. Thus far the Lord seems
to be ordering things kindly. Let us praise him for
all past favors, and trust him for all future good, both
temporal and spiritual."
The last paragraph discloses an event now approach-
ing which was to restore to Mr. Safford those domestic
ties which had been so often broken, and which, as we
have seen, he had so greatly enjoyed. It may interest
the reader to give a single extract from his correspond-
ence, having immediate reference to that event, to
show with what views and feelings, both as a man and
a Christian, he anticipated it.
" Do not let us expect too much happiness from any
created source, but ever remember nothing which this
world contains can, without God's blessing, afford one
drop of real joy, and desire that we may resolve, with
good Joshua, that as for us and our house, we will
serve the Lord.
" The happiness which my attachment to you affords
me excites in me a lively gratitude to God. He can
render you a great blessing to me and my family ; and
I love to think that notwithstanding all my frailties
and sins, he is able to make me a blessing to you. It
is my sincere desire, and will ever be my endeavor, to
make up, as far as possible, the loss you have sus-
tained in the removal of the dear husband of youv
youth."
" April 9. I have this day taken a deed of the
house in Montgomery Place, and given the occupant
CORRESPONDENCE. 103
notice to leave it in six months. The more I consider
your proposition to furnish the house yourself, the
more favorably I think of it. I shall wish you to fur-
nish just so much, and in just such a manner, as you
choose, as you will doubtless feel more at home, and
more at liberty to manage all things just as you please,
which you know I shall wish to have you do. I can not
help thinking how pleasant it will be, if the Lord will
grant me so great a favor, when I return from business
to meet your welcome smile, sometimes, perhaps, in
that little study by the side of the front parlor, where I
have thought you may love to retire, to write to absent
friends, to commune with your Saviour, and to pray
with the dear little boys. Let us continue instant in
prayer, that we may walk humbly with God, and make
it our great object to shine as Christians, and not as
worldlings.
" Shall we ever be permitted to kneel together daily,
and pour out our hearts before our heavenly Father,
and thank him for all the way in which he has led us?
I think sometimes that I anticipate_as much pleasure
from your society in this delightful employment as in
any other way. It appears to me there is no means
by which pure love in the hearts of the pious husband
and wife is so much increased as by frequent seasons
of prayer together, each leading alternately."
Mr. Safford and Mrs. Turner were married in An-
dover, at the house of Rev. J. Edwards, June 26, 1833.
104 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPPORD.
CHAPTER VIII.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED.
Reestablishment of domestic Relations. Enjoyment in them. Hospitality.
The German Woman. The outcast Child. The Irish Catholic Wo-
man. The Feast for the Poor. Evening Parties for Church Members.
Religious Worship on these Occasions. Arrangements to promote
the Comfort of his Family. The Chaise. Family Worship. Conver-
sion of an Irish Domestic.
THE union which now restored to Mr. Safford those
domestic ties that had so often been broken was one
not only of affections, but also of principles and views
of life. Mrs. Safford knew that he had, ere this,
adopted it as a fixed rule no longer to accumulate
property, but to give his whole income, beyond what
was needed for the support of himself and family, to
charitable uses, and she fully concurred therein.
Rejoicing that she was ready to unite in his most
cherished plans and pursuits, he once more gathered
about him his little family, which now included
her mother and his, each (5f whom was nearly eiglily
years of age ; also his niece, and his two little sons,
one a year and a half, and the other three years old.
There seemed to be no drawback to his complete hap-
piness, except the fear which continually haunted him,
that death might interrupt it. Three times in less
than five years had his conjugal ties been severed, and
it seemed to him too much to hope for that- they could
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 105
now be of long cor/inuance. Contrary to the usual
habit of his mind, and to his established principle
never to borrow trouble in advance, this fear for a
time very much marred his enjoyment.
On entering the parlor at the close of a day not long
after their marriage, Mrs. Safford found him slowly
and pensively pacing the room. In reply to the ques-
tion, " What troubles you, husband ? " he said, " I am
thinking what I should do if my family were to be
again broken up ; how I could bear it. I deserve it ;
I should not murmur ; but how could I bear it ? And
what should I do with all this furniture ? " referring,
in the latter remark, to the fact that, in making their
purchases, more regard had been paid to its durability
than before. It was to him an occasion for self-re-
proach that he had made any calculations upon the
continuance of life, when he had found it so frail.
With this was also mingled a fear that the additional
expenditure was not perfectly consistent with their
obligations to God as his stewards. He wished to deal
honestly and truly with God, and he was morbidly
afraid to enjoy the possession of blessings which he
was so liable to lose. The more cheerful view of
God's providence was suggested, in which there is so
much to show that he delights in seeing his children
happy. His wife playfully said to him, " It is my im-
pression that God is going to allow us to live and do
good together for many years, perhaps twenty" a pre-
diction which was more than verified in the result. It
was not long before these morbid feelings gave place
to an absorbing interest in the work of doing good,
and his peace, which increased with his years, became
truly " like a river."
106 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
When lie saw that his house and furniture could he
made subservient to the great object for which he
wished to live, they became to him sources of much
enjoyment. He gained a new view of the inspired
declaration, " Every creature of God is good, and
nothing to be refused if it be received with thanks-
giving, for it is sanctified by the word of God and
prayer."
In a letter written to her brother two years later,
Mrs. Safford says, " Our home is a very happy one to
we, and I think it is to my husband. Our family
arrangements are quite as much to my mind as I ex-
pect them ever to be, or as I can wish to have them.
I have comparatively few, if any, trials. Search the
world over, and I do not believe one could be found
better calculated than Mr. Safford to make the life of
a wife happy, he is so even and tranquil in himself,
and so benevolent and kind to all. As to selfishness,
I think sometimes he has none. A desire to make
others happy is constantly predominant with him, and
I believe that it is this which makes him so happy.
As to comforts, we abound in them. The Lord has
seen fit to give us all that we need for our own use ;
and what we have more than this we feel belongs to
him, and should be used for the good of others, and
especially to send the word of life to those who are
perishing in ignorance and sin. This renders what we
use ourselves doubly valuable."
Mr. Safford was in an eminent degree " given to
hospitality." It was the natural consequence of his
desire to do good to all, as he had opportunity. He
aimed at no ostentatious display of either his generos-
ity or his wealth in the presence of his guests, but
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 107
simply sought to make them happy. Therefore the
unexpected arrival of a visitor produced no disturb-
ance, and placed no extra burden upon his family.
His manner of receiving guests has often reminded us
of the patriarch that sat in his tent door, and called in
the strangers as they passed by, who proved to be an-
gels, and one of them the Lord of angels himself.
And if Sarah had not been able to dress the calf, and
prepare the fresh cakes, he annoyed neither her nor
them with apologies or complaints. One day when
he had brought home two gentlemen to dinner, with-
out any intimation to his wife of their coming, the
meal happened to be an economical disposal of the
previous day's fragments. When she had made the
apology usual in such cases, he remarked, in his most
pleasant manner, " Gentlemen, I am happy to be able
to give you so good a dinner."
The good brother R, to whom reference has been
made, had been obliged, in consequence of his misfor-
tune, to give up his employment, and consequently his
dwelling. After paying his physician's bill, nothing
remained for his board in the city, while he was pre-
paring to go west to seek new means of support. It
was with sincere pleasure that Mr. Safford, besides
aiding him with money, said to this excellent Christian
brother, " Come with Mrs. R., and spend the six weeks
with us."
He did not inquire whether one would prove an
agreeable visitor, but whether there was room in the
house for another, and whether, by receiving him as a
guest, he could aid in a good cause. A young man,
who had just completed his course of study in a theo-
logical seminary, proposed to labor in the city as a
108 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
.children's missionary. Mr. Safford thought such
labors desirable, and invited him to .stay in his house
until it should be ascertained whether he could be
supported. One morning, on taking an early walk in
Charles Street, the missionary observed a little girl
asleep under the board fence which then enclosed the
public garden. He aroused her, and, in answer to his
inquiries, she told him she had lived with an intemper-
ate aunt, who employed her in begging cold victuals.
When she came home the night before, her aunt was
just recovering from a fit of intoxication. Feeling
inclined, in the course of the evening, to eat some-
thing, she examined the contents of the child's basket,
and finding nothing tempting enough for her appe-
tite, she became very angry, and, in her passion,
pushed her into the street, and locked the door. The
poor girl wandered about until, sleepy and tired, she
laid herself down, where she was found asleep. The
young man brought her to Mr. Safford's house, where
she was washed, her ragged clothes exchanged for new
ones as soon as materials could bo purchased and gar-
ments made, and her sad heart for one grateful and
happy. The change produced in her in a few days
was very wonderful. The " Children's Friend Society"
was just then starting into life, and she was one of the
first received by it. In the course of a few months
she was adopted into a respectable family, and grew
up an accomplished and interesting young lady. This
was the first time that Mr. Safford was permitted lit-
erally to receive one who was " cast out to his house."
At this time the attention of the good people of
the city had not been particularly directed to the
condition of indigent and neglected children. The
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 109
numerous homes for the destitute which have since
blessed so many of the poor and needy had not been
established. ^
An illiterate and eccentric German woman came to
the city to solicit funds toward completing a church
in a destitute part of Pennsylvania, to which she had
first given all her own property. Having examined
her credentials, and found them, as he thought, trust-
worthy, lie gave her a sum of money, and then pro-
posed that, to save the expense of her board, she
should make his house her home while she was solicit-
ing aid. She could eat nothing that had been " kilt,"
and was in other respects disagreeable ; but he was
willing to bear with all this for the sake of the benev-
olent object which she seemed to have truly at heart.
Redeeming qualities were found in her social char-
acter, unpromising as this at. first appeared. She had
a faculty for amusing the children, and, on the whole,
the happiness of the family was increased by her
presence.
At the close of a day early in the autumn of 1834,
a young Catholic woman, about eighteen years of age,
appeared at the door of his house. She had come to
the city to look for her husband, whom she had mar-
ried at sixteen, without the knowledge of her parents.
She had looked for him three weeks in vain. " And
now," said she, " my heart is bruk." She had left
one child in Ireland, and expected soon to become the
mother of another. " I went to the praste," she
added, " and axed him to let me jist lie doon in the
chapel o' nights until I should find him, or to give
me a little money to pay for my lodging ; but he had
too many poor already."
10
110 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
The family with whom she was staying had told her
that in the morning they should put her goods upon
the sidewalk, and that she must pay them a quarter
of a dollar, or she could not stay there that night.
Although against Mr. Safford's rqle to give money to
persons applying for it in that way, without investiga-
tion, an exception was made in her case. Before the
sun rose the next morning, two of his family were on
Fort Hill, looking for Mary, but hardly expecting to
find her story true, although it had been told with
such deep sorrow and true simplicity that they knew
not 'how to doubt it. There she stood by a little pile
of rubbish, which comprised all her earthly possessions.
The tears were trickling down her cheeks ; but when
she saw and recognized the ladies, her face lighted up
with a smile.
Twenty years afterward, she said, " From that time
I never knew a want." Mr. Safford provided for her
immediate necessities, and soon after procured for her
a bed in the hospital. About three weeks later, she
appeared at his door again, with a bright, cheerful face,
and, as she said, " the nicest boy in the city." She
was now able to " scrub and wash," and only wanted a
little room which she could call her home, to be quite
independent. Her first expressed wish was to be per-
mitted to call her child Daniel Safford. She said,
" I want him to have not only Mr. Safford's name, but
his religion. I can no longer be a Cat'olic myself, and
my child shall not be brought up in that church. I
can never forget that the praste turned away from me,
and that Mr. Safford tuck pity on me when my heart
was bruk."
A room was procured for her. She made Mr. Saf-
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. Ill
ford her savings bank for several years, and always
came to him when in any trouble. Besides supporting
herself and her husband, (who came back to her when
he found she had a comfortable home, and was for-
given and received by that true Irish heart,) she
earned money sufficient to send for her daughter in
Ireland. She commenced attending Park Street
church, which she did for some time, but at length
returned to her own church. Mr. Safford, nevertheless,
continued his interest in her, and labored perseveringly
to reform her husband, who was an inebriate of the
worst kind, often signing the pledge, and as often
breaking it. There were few persons in the city more
grateful and happy than Irish Mary. After Mr. Saf-
ford's death, she came to his house to express her
grief that she had not known of his illness. She con-
soled herself by looking at his portrait, and recounted
with the deepest feeling his many kindnesses. " Wasn't
he a fine gentlemun ? " she said. " That first quarter
dollar saved my life. My Daniel is now twenty-five
years old, has good larnin', has never been a Cat'olic,
never drunk any rum, and never brought a tare into
my eye!"
In his early housekeeping in Montgomery Place,
Mr. Safford's attention was called to the direction of
our Lord, " When thou makest a dinner or a supper,
call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kins-
. men, nor thy rich neighbors, lest they also bid theo
again, and a recompense be made thee. But when
thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the
lame, the blind, and thou shalt be blessed, for they
can not recompense thee ; for thou shalt be recom-
pensed at the resurrection of the just."
112 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
He was aware that a literal compliance with this
injunction would subject him to notice, and perhaps
imputations upon his motives by the world. But he
cared little for this, if persuaded that it was right.
Writing to a friend upon another subject, he re-
marks,
" But you say public opinion is against it. I know
it is, to some extent, though I think it is changing in
this region. But what if public opinion is against it,
if the thing itself is not a real evil, and if real evils
are prevented by it ? Are Christians to be governed
wholly by public opinion ? If so, no reformation of
any kind will take place. Public opinion was once
against the temperance cause." . . .
Though he believed that the precept just quoted
might be obeyed in spirit without a strict conformity
to the letter, yet the more he reflected the more he
was convinced that in this matter Christ had not been
honored by his professed disciples, and that there was
too much conformity to the world in their feasting.
For himself, he felt that he should be delighted to
obey the command literally. On his marriage to Mrs.
Turner, he had introduced her to the poor women,
the widows and laundresses, the sick and infirm, of
Salem church. And the first dinner party he made
was for them. The folding doors were thrown open,
the tables extended through both parlors, and the visit
closed in the evening with a cup of tea, and devotional
exercises, conducted by Rev. Mr. Blagden, the pastor,
who was present on invitation. To say nothing of the
apparent enjoyment of the visitors, Mr. Saiford, it is
believed, never took more pleasure in entertaining
guests than on that day. It was to this incident,
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 113
doubtless, that Dr. Blagden particularly referred in
the remark which he made at the funeral of Mr. Saf*
ford : " He was devoted to the poor ; seating them at
his own table as one who had been more blessed in
worldly goods than they, while he counted these
goods as nothing, compared with the interests and
the cause for which he labored, and in which all were
equal."
He never afterward made a party exclusively for
the same class of persons, but in the Mount Vernon
church, with which he was last connected, improved,
as he thought, upon that method. During one winter,
he invited to his house the members of the church in
order, as their names stood on the register ; the rich
and the poor together, seventy or eighty at a time,
until the whole church, numbering several hundred,
had been invited. Among the company, one evening,
was a colored sister, who could not understand that
she was invited to a visit, and had come in her washing
dress. She was, however, furnished, after her arrival,
with a cap and black silk apron, and conducted to the
parlors, where she received rather more attention, from
all classes, than any other one present.
He made it a rule, in every social gatliering at his
house, that God should be acknowledged by religious
worship the singing of a hymn, or reading the
Scriptures, or both, followed by prayer. Persons not
religiously disposed, men of the world, who had never
witnessed this before at an evening party, on meeting
him afterward have expressed to him their conviction
of the propriety of this practice, assuring him that
they should never lose the impression received on
that occasion. He was thus encouraged to persevere
10*
114 MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
in the practice, notwithstanding the objection of some
professors of religion that it was mixing incongruous
things. He wished, he said, to allow nothing in his
own house which would not harmonize with religious
worship.
It may well be believed that one who was so much
awake to the interests of others would not be neglect-
ful of those of his own family. He studied to make
his house as convenient as possible, so as to save labor,
and increase the comfort and the health of its occu-
pants. He chose to own his dwelling, that he might
make such improvements as he desired ; and these were
always very perfect, of their kind. Mrs. Safford be-
came the teacher of the children, instructing them at
home until they reached the ages of eight and ten.
To induce her to take open-air exercise as much as
was necessary for her own health, and to provide safe
and agreeable recreation for them, he purchased a
horse, and had a chaise built, containing many new
contrivances of his own, which he kept in a livery
stable, near the house, subject entirely to her direction.
In pleasant weather he expected her to drive out every
day with her little companions, or with one of the
grandmothers, if either of them chose to go.
He had consecrated himself, and all that he had, to
Christ ; and in his domestic arrangements he had
supreme reference to the divine favor and blessing.
With David, he said, " I will walk within my house
with a perfect heart ; " and with Joshua, " As for me
and my house, we will serve the Lord." His family
prayers were the earnest outpouring of his heart be-
fore the Lord, and as regular and constant as the
return of morning and evening. Nothing was allowed
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. llo
to interrupt them ; and no domestic work, nor any
thing else, to hinder the servants from attending them.
They were always informed of this rule of the family
before engaging in his service ; and so came into the
house with this understanding. To several of them
this was the means of their conversion.
The following instance of this kind is worthy of
mention. An Irish Catholic woman, about forty years
old, who had been for many years a cook in one of the
most respectable families in the city, applied for a sit-
uation at Mr. Safford's. Her recommendations were
satisfactory, but she was told that the servants being
considered as members of the household, were ex-
pected to be always present at family prayers ; and
that if she could not conscientiously unite with them
it would be better for her not to come. She replied
that that would not prevent her coming, and that she
wished to come to this house, because no dinners were
cooked on the Sabbath. She was a widow, with
grown-up daughters ; a very strict Catholic ; and had
refused to speak to one of her children, who had be-
come a Protestant. After coming into the family, she
continued to attend her own church, no one interfering
with her religious views. She came regularly to prayers,
and read, in her turn, in the Scriptures ; being allowed
to use the Douay version. One morning, after a few
months, during the singing of the hymn, the tears were
seen trickling down her checks. She held her hymn
book up, and followed every word with her eye. As she
passed out of the room, she said to the other servant,
"What beautiful hymns those are!" A short time
after, she asked Mrs. Saflford if her church would bo
willing to have her little nephew, eight years old, corao
116 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
to their Sabbath school. Being told that he would be
very welcome there, she herself aided in clothing him
for that purpose. At length she asked, one day, if
she could obtain a seat in their church. Mrs. Safford
said, with surprise, " Elizabeth, do you intend to leave
your own church ? " " Yes, ma'am," she replied, " I
have been thinking of it for some time ; I prefer your
religion." " And why ? How is it that you have
changed your opinion, when, only one year ago, you
were so strong in your attachment to the Catholic
church ? " " Oh, I have been observing the religion
of this family ever since I came into it, and it seems
to me more like what I find in the Bible than that of
the Catholic." " In what respect ? What is one thing
which has led you to think so ? " " Why, ma'am,
Mr. Safford prays every day for his enemies, and our
church curses them ; and the Bible tells us that we
must forgive our enemies, and pray for them that hate
us." " Have you told your priest that you are going
to leave?" " No, ma'am." " Are you not afraid he
will excommunicate you ? " "I expect he will, but I
am not afraid of it. I told him I came to your
prayers, and that there was not a bishop in Boston
could pray better than Mr. Safford." It was found
that she had indeed been studying her Bible, and had
received Christ. She continued firm in the faith until
her death.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 117
CHAPTER IX.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED.
Letters to his Wife. Kicked by a Horse. Enjoyment of Solitude. Visits
to bis Partner, Mr. Low. Mutual Kegard of the Partners. Mr. Low's
Present of a Cane. Care for his Family. Removal to Beacon Street.
Hospitalities. Mary Lyon. Dr. Edwards. Missionaries. Letter of
Dr. Anderson.
IN the summer of 1834, his wife and children passed
a few weeks in Belchertown, with her sister, Mrs. Reid,
whose husband, Rev. J. Reid, had recently removed
thither from Reading. The following extracts are
from letters addressed at that time to Mrs. Safford :
"August 5, 1834.
" After leaving you yesterday I rode twenty miles,
to South Brookfield, where I took supper; and then,
committing myself and you to our heavenly Father,
enjoyed a refreshing night's rest. At half past four
o'clock, this morning, I called the hostler, and went to
the stable to see Charlie. I had on light pantaloons,
and, as it was dark, the horse probably saw nothing
but them, which frightened him so much that he stood
on the defensive, and gave me a broadside without
ceremony. The blow was very severe, and caused me
to groan aloud ; but after a few moments, I found that
I was not so seriously hurt as at first seemed probable.
At Worcester a physician was called, whose prescrip-
118 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
tions I am following, and hope to be fully restored in
a few days. I desire gratefully to acknowledge the
good hand of God in this narrow escape from imme-
diate death ; for if Charlie had been two feet further
from me, I have very little doubt he would have killed
me upon the spot."
" Sabbath Evening, August 10.
" MY DEAR WIFE : Your last calls for lively grat-
itude to our kind heavenly Father for his great good-
ness in restoring your health, and rendering you all
so happy in breathing his pure air, and drinking his
pure water. After reading it I almost involuntarily
sung the lines I have heard you teach the children,
' The Lord is good and kind to me,
And very thankful I should be.'
And now I ask you not to think of me as feeling mel-
ancholy or lonely here, or wishing me in a good board-
ing house. There is no place where I can be so happy
as in our own house, and no company in Boston is so
desirable to me as solitude. I hope, by the blessing
of God, it has already been profitable to me, and that
it will be still more so. I need more time for reading
and reflection. If not deceived, I have had, since my
return from Belchertown, some precious seasons of
communion with God, in reading the Bible, meditation,
and prayer.
" How are my dear Daniel and George ? Tell them
I hope they thank God for his goodness to them, and
to their father and mother, and that they will both
become Christians ; and then they may be happy, at
home or abroad, in company or alone ; they will not
be dependent upon outward things for happiness, the
source of it being within them."
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 119
'BOSTON, August 31, 1834.
" Can it be that another summer has gone, to return
no more for ever ? Is it so ? Ah, there is a fearful
sense in which it will return, at the great day, for
which all other days were made ; and as its mouths
and weeks, days, hours, and moments shall pass before
my quickened memory, laden with duties neglected
and sins committed, how unwelcome its return, how
insupportable the sight, if it shall not then appear that
this polluted soul has been cleansed in the precious
blood of Christ! Oh, what should we do without
Christ ? Dear Jesus, take this guilty soul of mine,
and wash it all over in thy precious blood, for it is
altogether polluted. If the faint glimpse thou hast
now given me of the evil of my heart is such as to
baffle description, how must I appear to the eye of
infinite purity ? Let those who have a righteousness
of their own present it, and plead their own merits ;
but, dear Saviour, I will present thy righteousness, and
plead thy merits alone.
" My dear wife, I had almost forgotten that I was
writing to you ; but as it is to you, I will let it go.
Can you not easily conceive of the burst of praise from
the ' ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands
of thousands,' as, with a loud voice, they sing, ' Wor-
thy is the Lamb, that was slain, to receive power, and
riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and
glory, and blessing ' ? "
Mr. Low, his partner in business, was now rapidly
declining in health, and had left the city. Mr. Safford
writes,
" I received a letter from Mr. Low yesterday. Ho
120 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
desires our prayers for him, and for his wife, who, he
says, will soon be a widow ; and for his children, who
will soon be fatherless."
Again he writes, in September, " I have just re-
turned from a visit to Mr. Low, at Beverly. He looks
like a living skeleton, but appears perfectly tranquil
and happy ; talks about dying, and what may come, or
be done after, much as he would if he were going on
a journey."
He continued to visit Mr. Low until his death. It
was delightful to witness the sweet confidence they
manifested in each other. Mr. Safford, in speaking of
him, said, " He has always been so faithful and trust-
worthy." And Mr. Low said of Mr. Safford, " He has
always been so just and honorable toward me, repeat-
edly giving me, of his own accord, an increased per-
centage of the profits of our business, because, as he
said, it was right ; never waiting for a proposition of
this kind from me."
The last visit was paid to Mr. Low a few hours pre-
vious to his death ; when he presented Mr. Safford
his cane, with a penciled note which he had written,
not expecting to see him again. This note Mr. Safford
carried in his pocket-book many years, until it was
worn into several pieces, and he then laid it by, among
his choice papers. Twenty-two years after Mr. Low's
death, and just before his own, he found this note, and
read it with much emotion. Seeing that the writing
was almost effaced, he copied it in his own hand. It
is as follows :
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. ' 121
" MY DEAREST FRIEND : Please accept this cane, as
the last token of respect and friendship from one who
loves you, and who will soon be no more. Keep it in
remembrance of me, and let it serve you the same
useful purpose that it has served me. And when the
hour of dissolution shall arrive, may we both be able
to say, in the language of holy joy in our Redeemer,
' Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I Will fear no evil ; for tliou art with me ; thy
rod and thy staff they comfort me.'
ISAIAH Low."
After the death of Mr. Low, his widow, with her
two little boys, looked to Mr. Safford as to a brother
for advice and sympathy, it being manifest that it was
a pleasure to him to render her any service in his
power. He took great care in investing her property,
wishing to render it as available as possible. She
called upon him with entire freedom ; and if, for
any length of time, she failed to do so, she was sure to
receive a call from him to inquire after her welfare.
Tliis friendly interest continued when she had removed
from the city, and even after her marriage to Mr. Lin-
coln, the warden of the state prison.
The tragical death of Mr. Lincoln by a blow from a
prisoner left her again a widow, with the care of a
large family of children, in addition to her own ; and
called forth anew Mr. Safford's sympathies in her
behalf. This is one of many cases which illustrate a
striking trait in his character. Ilia interest being once
enlisted, his constancy and perseverance in acts of
kindness never failed. Neither lapse of time nor
pressure of business was permitted to excuse him
11
122 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
from alleviating the burdens of the desolate and
afflicted, which he had once taken upon his heart.
One morning, in the spring of 1836, on the way to
his counting-room, a gentleman met him and asked if
he would sell the house in which he resided, in Mont-
gomery Place. He had no wish to exchange his dwell-
ing for any other ; but as the price offered was four
thousand dollars more than he had paid for it, four
years before, he thought he ought to give the question
some consideration, and returned to consult with Mrs.
Safford about it. Looking at all events as occurring
iinder the direction of God, they asked what could
*be the meaning of this providence. At first lie
thought that it might be an indication that the time
had come for him to give up business, and remove into
the country ; it having long been his intention not to
stand in the way of young men who wished and ought
to come forward in life. His brother-in-law, Dr. Ed-
wards,' learning that he was inclining to this view of
the subject, strongly protested against it. " For," said
he, " Mr. Safford has now boon twenty-four years in
the city, and by a steady course in the right direction,
lias laid a foundation for exerting an influence, and
acquired a power for doing good rarely possessed, and
which it would be a great mistake for him thus to
relinquish. It would be much like an artisan throw-
ing away his tools, after years spent in learning his
trade."
The wisdom of this counsel could not be denied.
He remembered, too, that he had been able to do good
by affording Christian hospitality to missionaries and
other servants of the Lord, and believed that his use-
fulness might be still further increased in the same
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 123
direction. After much prayer, therefore, it was de-
cided to accept the offer which had been made him,
and purchase a larger and more commodious houso
at No. 3 Beacon Street.
Miss Lyon, the founder of Mount Holyoke Female
Seminary, was at this time engaged in the preparatory
steps of that important enterprise. She had already
visited several times at the house of Mr. Safford, and
he had indorsed her scheme by a subscription of five
hundred dollars ; and had also called a meeting of
gentlemen at his own house, at which several thousand
more were pledged to her. His interest in the insti-
tution never afterward abated. His house was her
home whenever she chose to resort to it. In the lan-
guage of the Shunammite respecting Elisha, he said,
" This is a holy woman of God, who passeth by us
continually. Let us make a little chamber on the
wall, and let us set for her there a bed, and a table,
and a stool, and a candlestick." Her wants they
knew to be few, and very simple. It was only a place
to rest and to pray in that she required.
Her genial and Christ-like spirit had already proved
a blessing to their household. Her manner toward
the servants, who were Germans, and but recently
from their mother-land, had been so kind and conde-
scending, that they regarded her as their friend, and
welcomed her as if she had been their own mother.
It was very pleasant to witness their joy on her arriv-
ing. One of them, on answering, late one evening, to
the ringing of the bell, finding her with her trunk
upon the doorstep, in her joy left her there, and ran
back through the hall, exclaiming, "The Lyon, she bo
come! the Lyon, she be come!" The chamber set
12-1 MEMOIR OP DANIEL S AFFORD.
apart for her use was the scene of some of her most
interesting labors. Here she superintended the pub-
lishing of the " Principles and Design of the Mount
Holyoke Female Seminary $ " and afterward wrote
the stirring little book called " The Missionary Offer-
ing." This was the Mount Carmel, where she would
come in her extremity, and bow herself before the
Lord, until she was assured he had heard her prayer.
In this chamber she passed that week of prayer pre-
vious to a remarkable effusion of the Holy Spirit upon
her beloved seminary in 1843.* She left Boston early
in March, and on the 13th of April she wrote, " When
I returned from Boston there were a few more than
fifty without hope. In about three weeks all but six
expressed some hope that they had found the Saviour ;
in a single week of this time more than thirty of the
number."
The Rev. Dr. Justin Edwards was now devoting
himself to the cause of temperance ; and, much of the
time, needed a home in the city. Mr. Safford's in-
terest in this cause, and his love and respect for this
honored and beloved minister of Christ, rendered it very
pleasant to make provision for him also. He believed,
more especially, that he should have the approval of his
Master in providing for those of his servants who were
from time to time coming to the city to embark as
missionaries, a comfortable home for the last few days
which they were to spend in their native land. For
many years he had gladly made contributions in
money to this cause, and he could now have shown his
interest by paying their board at a hotel ; but this
* Memoir of Mary Lyon.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 125
could not satisfy him. He chose rather to receive
Christ, in the person of his servants, at his own house.
He loved the cause of missions, and desired to be iden-
tified with it as far as possible ; deeming the command
to preach the gospel to every creature, as binding upon
himself as upon them.
The first missionaries who were thus welcomed by
him were Mr. and Mrs. Lindley,* and Dr. and Mrs.
Wilson, bound to South Africa. The week they spent
with him in Montgomery Place convinced him that a
cup of cold water, given in the name of a disciple,
could be returned, even in this life, fourfold into his
own bosom, and upon his household. As, for succes-
sive weeks after their departure, he heard his little
son, three years old, alone in his closet praying every
morning so affectionately ; " God, take care of the
missionaries while they are on the big water, and don't
let the boat tip oder," the father could not doubt that
impressions had been made upon his child's mind
which would be as lasting as his being. One of the
missionary ladies had often taken the child upon her
lap, and had told him about the heathen, who have
* Just after the above was written, Mrs. Safford had the pleasure
of welcoming again to her house these veteran missionaries, with their
numerous family. Mr. Lindley could now say, as did the ancient pa-
triarch, " With my staff I passed over this Jordan, and now I have
become two bands." After twenty-five years of devoted labor among
the Zulus of South Africa, the parents return to visit once more their
native country, with eleven children, all in good health, and a house-
hold which might be considered a model both for Christian and
heathen families. They have experienced trials and hardships ; but
these they regard as trifles, compared with the great delight they have
had in seeing the dark minds of those heathen enlightened by the
precious truths they have taught them.
11*
126 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
never heard of Jesus, while he listened with intense
interest ; and when she asked him whether, when he
came to be a man, he would not go, as they were
going, over the great waters, and carry *the Bible, and
preach to them, his quick reply was, " Yes, if monner
[mother] will go, Dordie will." The father did not
live to hear this child preach the gospol, but he lived
to receive a visit from him after he had entered upon
his theological course, the object of which was to
obtain his father's consent to his becoming a mission-
ary ; his love for Christ and for the souls of his fellow-
men now rendering him willing to forsake father and
mother, and thus follow Christ. This was more grat-
ifying to Mr. Safford than to have been told that his
son had become heir to a throne ; for his faith beheld
the invisible things promised to such as count not
their lives dear for his sake.
The following is an extract of a letter written to her
sister, by Mrs. Safford, in 1836 :
" I will now tell you a little of what is doing at No. 3
Beacon Street. If you could step in here you might
be introduced to ten missionaries, bound to the Sand-
wich Islands, who have spent the last two weeks with
us. We breakfast at half past six twenty at the
table ; family prayers immediately follow ; the Scrip-
tures are read by each one, two verses in turn ; a
hymn is sung ; and after prayer, those who have no
other engagements retire to the parlor above, and
spend another half hour in prayer, interspersed with
singing, ' Come, ye that love the Lord,' ' Rock of Ages,'
* Yes, my native land, I love thee,' &c. Then the
missionaries disperse ; some to pack their goods, and
some to purchase articles for the voyage and mission.
DOMESTIC LIFE, CONTINUED. 127
At one o'clock all come home, hungry and tired, to din-
ner. As you may imagine, the house is brought into
thorough use. Seven are accommodated in the attic ;
as many more in the fourth story ; and in the third,
six. There is frequently additional company to dine.
We all accompanied them to the ship this morning,
expecting them to sail at ten o'clock ; but there was
no wind ; and all returned, to remain, we do not
know how long."
The following testimony of Rev. Dr. Anderson, Sec-
retary of the American Board of Commissioners for
Foreign Missions, describes Mr. Safford's hospitality,
and its bearings upon the missionary cause.
" He appreciated more fully than any man I have
known, not a secretary, the importance of hospitality
toward departing missionaries. He was averse to their
embarking from hotels or boarding houses. He would
have them go out from the warm bosom of the Chris-
tian family, when departing from their native land to
reside in remote fields. To make it easy for the secre-
taries to find such entertainment for them, he not only
placed his own name first to the following paper, but
also procured a respectable list of other names to
it ; viz. :
"'The subscribers, residing in Boston, declare their
willingness to receive missionaries of the American
Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions into
their families, when they embark from this city, should
it be convenient, at tbc time, to do so ; and they re-
quest the officers of the Board to apply to them when
there is need. When thus applied to, they engage to
state frankly whether it be convenient or not to accede
to the request.'
128 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
" He was always accessible to us on this point ;
always ready to act ; and was unwearied from year to
year until his mortal disease fastened upon him.
"When sickness in his family did not prevent, his doors
were open, and he was ready to use his influence on
others. Nor was he anxious to have the best in a
company of missionaries sent to his house. We might
arrange that matter as we pleased.
" He loved the kingdom of our blessed Lord ; de-
lighting to do what he could to promote it. He loved
to have good men and women in his house ; and, if they
were missionaries, to speed them on their way. I could
never see that Christian hospitality seemed to him a
burden. He enjoyed it, and wondered that others did
not enjoy it as he did. A few such men as he, with
ample means, would give a character of hospitality to
a city. A few such, whatever their means, are a rich
blessing to a church. They are invaluable at the seat
of a .great foreign missionary institution. May the
gracious Lord be pleased to give us many such men as
Mr. Safford was."
REVIVAL LABORS 129
CHAPTER X.
REVIVAL LABORS.
Removal to Park Street Church. Debt of Salem Church paid. Organiza-
tion of the "Central Church," and Removal thither. Return to Park
Street Church. His Interest in Preaching. Remodeling of the House
of Worship. Labors in the Sabbath School. Interest in the Young
Preparations for a Revival. Rev. E. N. Kirk invited to Boston. Man-
ner of his Reception by the Pastors of the City. Special Meetings.
Conversions. .Letters to Mr. Kirk. Second Visit of Mr. Kirk to Bos-
ton. Organization of Mount Vernon Church. Rev. Mr. Aiken's Tes-
timony to Mr. Safford's Character and Usefulness.
PREVIOUS to 1835 the attention of several gentlemen
had been called to the desirableness of purchasing the
Federal Street theater, in Boston, and converting it into
a place of religious worship. Mr. Safford promised to
share the responsibility of the enterprise, should it be
undertaken. While the matter was in suspense, as his
services were no longer indispensable in Salem church,
and as his residence was near Park Street church, he
proposed to return to the latter. He was, however,
unwilling to leave it while it was still embarrassed
with a debt ; though it was not large. He therefore
drew up a subscription paper for liquidating that
debt; himself contributing, for that purpose, as ap-
pears from a private memorandum then made, thir-
teen hundred and sixty-eight dollars. This effort
proving successful, he felt himself at liberty to with-
draw; but lu's love for the church and his interest
130 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
in their prosperity remained undiminislied till his
death. He was received into communion with the
Park Street church March 1, 1835. He had, how-
ever, scarcely become settled there before the Academy
of Music, having leased the Federal Street theater,
offered it to the gentlemen above referred to, for the
purposes of worship. He was therefore called upon to
redeem the pledge which he had given to engage in
this enterprise. Before dismissing him, the brethren
of Park Street church obtained from him a promise
that, as soon as the new enterprise could spare him,
he would again return to them.
May 11, 1835, a church, consisting of sixty-three
persons, was organized in the vestry of the Bowdoin
Street church ; and on the next evening, Mr. Safford,
Mr. John C. Proctor, and Mr. Daniel Noyes were
elected deacons. In the following August, having
invited the Rev. W. M. Rogers to be their pastor, they
commenced worshiping in the theater, then called
the " Odeon." A flourishing congregation was soon
gathered ; and in about two years the church had so
increased in numbers and strength, that the brethren
of Park Street church reminded him of his pledge to
return to them. Of this they were now the more de-
sirous, as it was becoming increasingly obvious that
their edifice must be remodeled ; and he was told re-
peatedly that it could not be accomplished without
him. But his family were reluctant to leave the new
and flourishing society, to which they had become
much attached. Thef had seen its beginnings, shared
its trials, labors, and joys ; and were identified with all
its interests. Mr. Safford's relations, also, to the pas-
tor and his brother officers, and all its members, had
been very pleasant.
REVIVAL LABORS. 131
The trial of sundering these ties was not small ; and
many weeks passed before he was able to decide the
question before him. At length his convictions of
duty and his love for Iris first church-home in the city
prevailed. Sunday, March 26, 1837, found him with
his family in Park Street Church, listening to the first
sermons which the new pastor, Rev. S. Aikeu, preached
after his installation. Both of them were clear, simple,
faithful exhibitions of truth. He was grateful and
happy to find that, while he had not sought his own
edification in the change, the providence of God had
given him a minister whose preaching commended
itself to his judgment and taste. The preaching of
Mr. Aiken he always regarded as peculiarly adapted to
his own wants ; being eminently scriptural, instructive,
and practical. Perhaps few men ever more valued the
faithful ministrations of the sanctuary, or were more
thoroughly benefited by them, than Mr. Safford. He
had his preferences, but was far from being fastidious.
If the preaching was adapted to its appointed end, to
convert the soul and lead to holiness of heart and use-
fulness of life, he counted it above all price ; and
for nothing did lie more cheerfully contribute his money
and influence. His seat in his own church was never
vacated for the sake merely of hearing other preachers,
however eloquent and renowned. He gave the most
humble and earnest attention to the word, carefully
obeying the injunction, " Take heed how ye hear;" and
feeling deeply his accountability for the practical im-
provement of every sermon. It was not unusual for
him to retire immediately after service to his closet,
to pray that a divine influence might be given to the
word as it had been preached, and every hearer be
132 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
savingly benefited by it. The habit of attention
which he thus acquired, it is believed, was very val-
uable to him ; increasing not only his piety, but also
his intellectual strength, especially the memory. He
could give an excellent report of every good sermon
he had heard.
Although, when Mr. Safford left the Franklin Street
church, it appeared to him so strong in numbers and
wealth that he was justified in taking that step, yet the
great commercial embarrassments of that year (1837)
so seriously affected some of their most reliable mem-
bers, that a committee was appointed to wait upon him
and urge his return. His heart was, however, so
much set upon aiding his brethren in remodeling Park
Street Church, that he did not yield to their request.
The building was uncomfortable and unattractive, on
account of the high pulpit and pews. The debt was
increasing every year, with no prospect of paying it ;
and indeed the fear had been expressed that this noble
edifice, which had been erected in the midst of obloquy
and discouragement, but which had been signally
owned and blessed of God, might yet have to be sold
for debt. The greatest difficulty in the way of the
proposed enterprise was the opposition of a few aged
pew-proprietors to any change in the interior of the
building, and their persistent refusal to surrender the
deeds of their pews. All efforts to get a vote to this
effect had failed. He had dwelt so much upon this
subject during the winter previous to his return as
often to prevent his sleeping, which it was very un-
usual for any trouble or anxiety to do. His affection
for the church had not been diminished by his separa-
tion from it ; and to see that fail would have been to
REVIVAL LABORS. 133
him a sore trial. It was because his family had found
that he could not " give sleep to his eyes nor slumber
to his eyelids," while any thing was wanting on his
part to save it, that they had consented to sacrifice
their own preferences, and make the change. He was
prepared to enter upon the effort with all his heart.
He believed it could be accomplished ; and he was al-
ways willing to perform labor which might never be ap-
preciated, when, as now, the object commended itself to
his judgment, and he felt called of God to it. Of these
labors, in various churches, a gentleman who was at
this time an officer in Park Street church writes as
follows :
" The death of Deacon Safford was to me more than
the loss of a brother. We had long labored in the
church in unison, and taken sweet counsel together.
His judicious zeal and ardent love for the cause of
Christ inspired confidence in him as a leader in every
good enterprise. Three times in fourteen years he
was dismissed, with others, from this church, to organ-
ize new churches, superintend the erection of meeting
houses, and settle pastors. In every instance he ac-
complished his object faithfully, as those churches will
testify, and within that time, in addition to these
arduous labors, lie has done as much for Park Street
church as a deacon. During the ministry of Rev. Dr.
Griffin and Rev. S. Dwight, we had no vestry but the
little room over the front door of the church. When
the revival of 1823 had rendered that place too strait
for us, we had to dig out a cellar under the church,
alongside the tombs, to make what we called the ' lower
vestry.' It was so dark, damp, and dismal, that we
could not bear it long, neither would it contain our
12
134 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
increasing numbers. Numerous consultations were
held to see how we could get a better vestry ; but land
and building materials were dear, and we were deeply
in debt. In this dilemma Deacon Safford proposed
that we should raise the roof, and erect a second floor,
twelve feet above the original one, upon which the
pews, organ, and pulpit should be placed, and leave
the first floor for a large vestry, and four other rooms,
which could be let for schools, the income of which
would pay the interest of the cost of the alteration,
and create a sinking fund, which would yearly dimin-
ish the debt, which was now annually increasing.
This wise and simple plan was adopted. Mr. Safford
was chairman of the committee to superintend the
work. It was speedily completed, and we now have
the comfort of this spacious vestry, and the debt which
it occasioned has long since been extinguished by the
income derived from the new rooms. I could say
much of his amiable disposition, his love of prayer,
and his brotherly affection ; but it is unnecessary
they are known to all." '
The work of remodeling the building * being ac-
complished, he gave himself, with his brethren, to
increasing prayer and efforts for the spiritual interests
of the church. Being superintendent of the Sunday
school, he had meetings of the teachers at his own
house every Saturday evening. One of these teachers
thus writes :
" The meetings at his house, which it was my
* His last act in reference to it was to ascend the lofty spire, and,
at great risk, as was thought by those who knew of his disease of the
heart, to stand on tiptoe upon the bars which indicate the points of
the compass, and lift the large gilded ball or vane into its place.
REVIVAL LABORS. 135
privilege so long to attend, differed from all others
which I have ever known, in the familiar and unre-
strained intercourse of superintendent and teachers.
We gathered about him in his own house, as children
about a father, to pass an hour in the study of the
Scriptures, and in conversation about the lesson. No
one feared to ask questions, to state difficulties, to
express doubts, or to confess ignorance to that kind,
paternal friend. His sympathies were with us; he
understood us individually, and his patience was un-
wearied in returning again and again to explain our
difficulties. Do you recollect his kindness to young
Mr. , when the subject of man's free agency and
God's sovereignty were for several evenings the subject
of the lessons ? Every night the young man came
back to the same difficulty, apparently unconscious
that it had been again and again met to the satisfac-
tion of every mind save his own.
" Those of us who, for months and years, met in
that social manlier, formed life-long attachments to
Deacon Safford and to one another. As we still meet,
at long intervals, in later years, we love to refer to
those happy evenings. Their influence may still be
traced in the clear and distinct ideas we then obtained
on many points of doctrine, where else we had re-
mained in darkness and confusion.
" I wish I could express all the affectionate and
grateful remembrance which I cherish of those pleas-
ant and valuable hours."
In the Sunday school, as in every other work, his
chief reliance was on prayer. Never, we think, did a
winter pass while he was superintendent, in this or
any other school, in which he did not call on the
136 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
teachers to observe at least one day of fasting and
prayer. He usually invited them to meet in his own
house, where, before God, they confessed their sins
and the sins of their pupils, and pleaded for the
descent of the Holy Spirit upon them. In the school
his manner was so kind and fatherly toward the chil-
dren that it won their hearts ; for even the youngest
child could see that it was the expression of a sincere
regard, especially for their immortal interests. Every
one found more than a school and superintendent a
home and a personal friend.
He was observed one day, just as the school was
about to begin, to step to the door and speak to a
young man who was standing there alone, apparently
considering whether to venture in or not. He brought
him to a seat, and sat down by his side. He found
him to be the son of a minister, residing some miles
distant in the country, who had, for the first time in
his life, left his parents, and was employed as a clerk
in a store here. He looked sad, and every now and
then brushed away a falling tear. He said he was
very homesick, for lie felt friendless and alone in this
large and strange city. Mr. Safford cheered and en-
couraged him, invited him to his house, and continued
to treat him and care for him as he would like to have
some good man do for his son, if similarly situated.
The youth joined the Bible class, was converted, and
united with the church not many months after. It is
believed that, during the subsequent twenty years, Mr.
Safford was made the happy instrument, by similar
attentions and expressions of kindness, of saving num-
bers of young men from the vortex of destruction to
which they are exposed on being first introduced to
the city.
REVIVAL LABORS. 137
A young lady, one of a large family of children,
who was connected with him, first in Franklin Street,
and afterward in Mount Vernon church, says,
" I shall never forget one evening when Deacon Saf-
ford called upon us, and I was requested to go with
my sisters to the parlor and see him. After we were
seated, he looked round upon us, smiled benignantly,
and said, ' My own children are out of the city, and I
have not them to talk with, and so I thought I would
come and talk with some of my other children.' He
proceeded in such an affectionate, familiar, and earnest
manner to speak of the importance of becoming Chris-
tians now, and giving our hearts at once to Christ, that
we could not resist it. However much we might,
before this, have disliked being talked to about reli-
gion, it was so manifest that he really loved us, and
sought our good, that we could not but thank him in
our hearts. For myself, I can say, that from that
evening I did not rest until I had a hope in Christ."
Besides these earnest efforts in the Sabbath school,
he, with other brethren, held informal meetings in
the winter of 1839 and 1840, among the families of
the congregation, the special object of which was to
gain access to the impenitent members of each house-
hold. If practicable, they were always conversed with
personally on the subject of religion at the close of the
meeting, and special prayer was offered for them.
Several conversions occurred in connection with these
meetings.
On March 3 of that year, these brethren, with Dea-
con J. C. Proctor, who had been associated with Mr.
Safford in Salem and Central churches, commenced a
daily eight o'clock morning prayer meeting in the new
12*
138 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
and beautiful vestry of Park Street Church. This
continued without interruption for five years, and it is
believed he never once failed of attending it during
that period, unless when absent from the city.
A blessed work of the Holy Spirit was now be-
gun, which continued several years, bringing hundreds
into our churches. In this work Mr. Safford's heart
and hands were fully employed. It has been said by
one of his pastors that he was usually the first to dis-
cern and welcome the presence of the divine Spirit.
He sought to prepare the way for his coming by prayer
and fasting, often setting apart a day for these exer-
cises, and recommending the same to others. On these
occasions he searched diligently to learn the sins of his
heart, and with great self-abasement confessed them
before God. The ninth chapter of Daniel, in which
the prophet speaks of setting his face with fasting and
prayer to seek the Lord, confessing his sins and the
sins of the people, was the passage of Scripture which,
more than any other, was read by him. On the ears
of many still linger the tones with which he used to
repeat the words, " Lord, hear ; Lord, forgive ; O
Lord, hearken and do ; defer not, for thine own sake,
O our God."
No one ever more highly valued the established
ordinances of the gospel. Every Christian, it is be-
lieved, on whom the light of his example fell, was
stimulated by it to stand in his lot to improve every
opportunity for usefulness, and to encourage and sus-
tain his pastor by prayer and cooperation. Yet his
eye was continually turning to the masses who, in a
large city, are not reached by stated preaching and the
ordinary means of grace. The Rev. Jacob Knapp, the
REVIVAL LABORS. 139
well-known Baptist evangelist, was then preaching in
the city, and drawing multitudes to hear him. At
this time Mr. Safford received a letter from his
brother-in-law in New York, describing the labors of
the Rev. E. N. Kirk, in the Mercer Street church,
then under the care of Rev. Dr. Skinner, and of the
marked success with which they were attended. Hav-
ing heard from other sources similar accounts of the
great revivals which had been enjoyed in connection
with his labors in Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New
York, Mr. Safford was led very strongly to wish that
Boston might be favored with the same instrumentality.
He believed that there was work enough for the pas-
tors, and for both of these evangelists ; and that if
a cooperation of the pastors and laymen could be
secured, a great spiritual harvest might be gathered.
At this time, however, on account of measures which
had been introduced in some parts of our country by
rash and inconsiderate men, most of our pastors were
opposed to inviting any minister from abroad to labor
in their congregations. Mr. Safford, never willing to
,do any thing which was, or which even might bo
thought to be, detrimental to the influence of the set-
tled ministry, for some time repressed his strong
desires in this direction. There was a large circle of
young persons, from different churches, and of differ-
ent denominations, who had met at his own and at
other houses for two successive winters, to labor for
the support of a col porter in France. This social
circle was an auxiliary to the Foreign Evangelical
Society, of which Mr. Kirk was then Secretary ; and
had received encouragement from Mr. Safford, that
before their meetings should close for the season, he
140 MEMOIB OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
would endeavor to procure an invitation for Mr. Kirk
to address them. As the season was advancing,
they reminded him of this promise. He was iii
doubt what course to tako, and spread the case before
the Lord.
He at length said, " I will go and consult my pastor.
If he does not object, I will go on to New York and see
Mr. Kirk. But if he is not willing, I will do no more
about it for the present." After his band was upon
the door of his chamber, he turned, and said to his
wife, " Let us pray once more about it, because we are
to consider the opinion which Mr. A. shall express as
the mind of the Lord to us on this subject." Tbey
knelt at the same chair, and earnestly implored for his
pastor the light and direction of the Holy Spirit, in a
matter of so much importance. He arose from his
knees, and went directly to the study of his pastor.
He freely communicated to him his views of the con-
dition and wants of the masses in the city ; and his
belief that Mr. Kirk's preaching, in the existing state
of things, might be productive of great results, and
his strong desire that he should be invited to come to
the city. Yet he also stated, that he was aware how
the ministers generally felt, as to employing evange-
lists ; and declared his purpose to do nothing in the
matter, unless it should meet with his pastor's ap-
probation. To his great joy, Mr. Aiken replied, "I
see no reason why you should not follow your own
convictions of what is right and best in the case."
Learning thus, as he thought, what the will of God
was, he went immediately to New York. Not finding
Mr. Kirk there, he addressed him a line, conveying to
him the wishes of the young people, and added, in a
REVIVAL LABORS. 141
postscript, " If you bring some gospel sermons with
you, I think you will be invited to preach them."
Mr. Kirk was happy in the opportunity of aiding
the benevolent in Boston in their efforts to circulate
the gospel in France, where he had been sojourning
many months, and in the welfare of whose people he
felt an absorbing interest. He arrived at Mr. Safford's
house, June 26, 1840, and on the following Tuesday
addressed the interesting social circle above referred
to, assembled in his parlors.
On the morning of his arrival, the pastor of Park
Street church invited him to preach in his pulpit while
he should remain in the city, as often as his strength
would allow, and to employ such other means as he
had found to be blessed of God. This was Friday
morning ; and notice having been given in the church
meeting, Mr. Kirk on Saturday evening preached his
first sermon in Boston, from the text, " Prepare to
meet thy God." Thus commenced, in that noble edi-
fice, just after it was remodeled, a series of remark-
ably interesting meetings. For nine successive days
there were services every afternoon and evening. At
the daily morning prayer meetings fervent supplica-
tion was offered. The audiences constantly increased,
until the aisles were filled ; the pulpit-stairs were cov-
ered ; and many were obliged to go away from the
house because they could not find a place even to
stand. Such crowds listening to simple and faithful
exhibitions of gospel truth, new to many of them,
such deep attention and solemn stillness pervading the
house, and plainly indicating the presence of the Holy
Ghost, were, to Mr. Safford and those dear brethren
who sympathized with him, a most cheering spectacle.
142 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
The results of this experiment having been even
greater than was anticipated, the desire was expressed
to Mr. Kirk that lie should return in the autumn, and
resume his labors. After receiving a pledge from the
brethren that if he would thus devote himself to labors
for the conversion of souls, they would be responsible
for making the collections for his society, he con-
sented to return.
Accordingly, in the November following, he arrived
again in the city, making his home at Mr. Safford's
house. As Mr. Aiken was averse to monopolizing his
labors, or to appearing not to act in concert with his
ministerial brethren, he waited to see what steps they
would take ; and Mr. Kirk thus remained for several
days unoccupied. Mr. Safford greatly desired that all
the pastors, whom he so sincerely loved and respected,
should cooperate with him ; and that every church
should share in the blessing which he believed would
follow these united efforts. Hoping that by personal
conference they might see eye to eye on this subject,
he went himself to the ministers and the leading lay-
men in the churches, and invited them to come
together and talk the matter over freely. They met ;
and after some conversation, Dr. B., one of his former
pastors, who acted as the moderator of the meeting,
said, " I would inquire for what purpose we are come
together." Somo one replied, " I suppose it is to
decide what shall be done with brother Kirk." Dr. B.
then said, " I should like to be informed, in the first
place, by whose invitation brother Kirk came to the
city. Who brought him here ? " One made answer,
" I imagine that brother Safford can enlighten us on
that point as well as any one." Mr. Safford then arose,
REVIVAL LABORS. 143
and made a simple statement of his agency in the
matter ; and after some discussion, the moderator
pleasantly remarked, " Well, I propose that as brother
Safford brought brother Kirk here, brother Safford
take care of him." ' Thus the matter ended.
Although the views of Dr. B. and Mr. Safford with
regard to evangelists, and some other subjects, did not
coincide, there was, nevertheless, the most friendly
feeling between them. And in after years, when Mr.
Safford had learned to love and revere Mr. Kirk as his
pastor, to bear his burdens, and minister most lib-
erally to his wants, ho -reminded Dr; B. that in this
he was only following his former pastor's directions,
which he was always happy to do when they accorded
with his judgment.
Mr. Aikcn now saw that he was left to judge for
himself what would best promote the spiritual good of
the multitudes who were desirous of attending upon
the preached word, both in season and out of season,
and repeated his invitation to Mr. Kirk to preach in
his pulpit as often as his strength would admit. For
many successive weeks, the doors of Park Street
Church were open, and the house was thronged with
attentive listeners. The preaching was preceded and
followed by meetings for prayer ; and meetings for
inquiry were also frequent. Many, not connected with
any evangelical society, as they were drawn in to hear
the truth, and became convicted of sin, found their
way to Mr. Safford's house, for personal conversation
and prayer, either with himself or with Mr. Kirk.
Indeed, prayer could be heard ascending from one
room and another of his house at almost all hours
of the day. Often, late at night some wounded soul
144 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
would come in to receive one word more of counsel, or
to be prayed for again. Mr. Safford's heart was thus
cheered by seeing sinners flocking to Christ. Little
gatherings fee prayer of those who were agreed as touch-
ing the same thing, were held often in his own parlors.
Among those who thus met every afternoon for
several weeks to pour out their hearts before the Lord,
were included Hon. Samuel Hubbard, Deacons Willis
and Dana, and Rev. Louis Dwight. Judge Hubbard
always insisted on having a record kept of every meet-
ing, and the special subjects of prayer noted, so that,
when answers were received, thanks could be returned,
and God's faithfulness and truth made known, that the
humble might " hear thereof and- be glad." He was a
man of profound biblical knowledge, as well as un-
common good sense and earnest piety ; and Mr. Saf-
ford had great confidence in his judgment on all sub-
jects pertaining to Christian faith and duty. Deacon
Nathaniel Dana, too, whom Mr. Safford used to desig-
nate as " an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile,"
stood shoulder to shoulder with him in his zeal to pro-
mote these efforts for the salvation of the people.
" Now," as their pastor, Mr. Aiken, has well said,
" they are doubtless all uniting in ascriptions of praise
above." As the fruit of this revival season, numbers
were added to the Lord ; and the hearts of Christians
were greatly encouraged and strengthened. After
Mr. Kirk left the city the second time, the interest was
found to be so deep and extensive, that Mr. Safford,
urged by Mr. Hubbard and others, went to Hartford,
where he was then laboring, to persuade him to return
and resume his labors in Boston. The following letter,
written after this interview, explains itself:
REVIVAL LABORS. 145
To REV. EDWARD N. KIRK.
" BOSTON, March 9, 1841.
" MY VERY DEAR FRIEND : When I left you at
Hartford, you said you must visit New York, and
labor four or five weeks for your society ; after which
you gave me some reason to expect you would visit
Boston. You remarked, indeed, that you would like
to go to Philadelphia and Baltimore, but that you had
almost done making plans for the future, as the Lord
had often sent you in a different direction from that
which you "had designed. It appears to me that, as
far as raising money for your society is concerned,
your way is hedged up in those cities by the suspen-
sion of the banks.
" Now for Boston. It is increasingly evident that
your labors here produced a very extensive movement
in the minds of this community, which has been fol-
lowed by a pretty general inquiry after the truth. Mr.
G. and Mr. C., in a course of Sabbath evening lec-
tures, have been telling what they believe to be truth,
and what Unitarianism is. Many have attended who
never have attended religious meetings in the evening
before. Now, if you were here so as to commence
your public labors about the time Mr. G. closes, I
believe many of the same persons would come to hear
you, and see the difference ; or perhaps you can come
immediately and rest, and write sermons, and 'just
preach a little ' in Park Street Church.
" Tbe morning meetings are kept up with increasing
interest. There is also a prayer meeting in our own
house every day, and sometimes two or three times a
day, at which you and Mr. G. are not forgotten. Mr.
Aiken never stood so high in the judgment and affec-
13
146 MEMOIR OP DAN 7 IEL SAFFORD.
tions of his people as now. He appears deeply inter-
ested in his work. So far as I hear, the churches are
pleased with the manner in which our church and
pastor, invited you. Deacon P., of Bowdoin Street
church, told me, if we had not invited you this season,
they should have done it. He also said he was satis-
fied that Park Street Church was much the best place
for you to preach in, both on account of its size and
location. And now, dear sir, do come, and come soon.
We have an open house, open hearts, open and
almost empty purses, but think, if you should
come, we should shake them again.* If you do not
come immediately, please let me know whether we
may expect you at no very distant time, that I may
encourage the hearts of these praying ones, who are
asking me daily about you.
" Yours very affectionately, DANIEL SAFFORD.'
Mr. Kirk did not return at that time. At Mr. Saf-
ford's suggestion, another day was set apart by the
church, to pray that the influences of the Holy Spirit
might be given in larger measure. He observed this
day strictly, with fasting and entire abstraction from
worldly concerns. His anxiety was great, lest Chris-
tians should feel that because one instrumentality
daily preaching had been suspended, and one agent
was withdrawn, the work must necessarily cease, and
his pastor, for whom his love and respect were greater
than ever, should not be sustained by the prayers and
increased cooperation of the members of his church.
He stirred up their minds not only to call upon God
* Referring to collections Mr Kirk was making for the Foreign
Evangelical Society.
REVIVAL LABORS'. 147
more earnestly, but to labor more with individuals ;
himself setting the example. His heart was partic-
ularly drawn out in desire for the conversion of his
own workmen, and he was led to labor and to pray
with them individually. His reward was given him.
Several of them were brought under deep conviction
of sin, and, as they hoped, to the feet of Christ. After
this day of prayer, the work seemed to deepen ; and,
in several families connected with the congregation,
conversions occurred.
In scenes like these, the energies of his whole being
were brought into exercise. His joy can not be de-
scribed when, at an evening meeting, seventy-one, who
had recently, as was hoped, been converted, arose at
the request of the pastor, and sung,
"Welcome, welcome, dear Redeemer,
Welcome to this heart of mine ;
Lord, I make a full surrender ;
Every power and thought be thine,
Thine entirely,
Through eternal ages thine."
It was to Mr. Safford peculiarly interesting to find
among the persons now awakened to serious inquiry
upon religious subjects, some with whom, in his early
life in Boston, he had been intimately, and very pleas-
antly, associated. It lias already been remarked that he
never obtruded his sentiments upon those who differed
from him in their religious views. While it was his
earnest desire and constant prayer tli.it they might be
led to accept Christ as the only Saviour of man, he
depended more upon the exhibition of the fruits of his
faith in his daily life* than in the power of argument
or controversy. The following instances may serve to
illustrate the influence thus exerted.
148 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
A gentleman one day about this time invited him
into his counting room, where was an open Bible upon
the desk. Laying his hand upon it, he said, very seri-
ously, " Mr. Safford, I would give all that I possess to
be able to believe in this blessed book as you do. Can
you tell me how I can get your faith in it ? I have so
long been taught that this and that passage are not
inspired, that I am continually in doubt, as I read,
what is and what is not the very word of God. I am
anxious to know whether I am prepared to die, and if
not, what more I must do in order to be ready to meet
my Judge." Mr. Safford rejoiced in an opportunity
thus afforded him to declare his firm belief in the
whole Bible, to show some of the evidences that it is
all " given by inspiration, and is profitable for doctrine,
for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteous-
ness," and to urge this friend immediately to receive
Christ as the Saviour of his own soul.
A relative of Mr. Safford' s first wife was ill, and
sent for him to visit her. He had not met her for
some months, and was surprised and saddened, on
entering her room, to discover at once the hectic flush,
and other unmistakable symptoms of that disease with
which it had been his lot to become so familiar. As
he seated himself beside her, she said, taking his hand,
" Mr. Safford, I have sent for you to tell me what I
must do to prepare to die. My pastor visits me fre-
quently, and it is pleasant to see him ; but he aims
solely to encourage me that I am better, and shall soon
be well. This is not pleasant, for I know it is not so.
I am going to die. The hope which answered for me
when in health is not sufficient now ; my own works
can not save me. I want a Saviour who is almighty
and divine ; such a Saviour as you believe in."
REVIVAL LABORS. 149
It was his joy to give, as it was her delight to listen
to, simple instructions from the word of God, in which
Christ reveals himself as an all-sufficient Friend to the
dying sinner. And in his repeated visits he obtained
evidence, as he thought, that she received Christ as
her Saviour, and died in the comforting hope of ac-
ceptance in him.
Early in the autumn of 1841, the Park Street church,
with the entire approbation of Mr Aiken, invited Mr.
Kirk to return and resume his labors, in connection
with their pastor. The latter requested Mr. Safford
to convey this invitation to him ; and at the same
time recommended that he should, as before, receive
him to his own house, as the work would be best pro-
moted by this course. This Mr. Safford was most
happy to do. Mr. Kirk accordingly came, and the
religious interest increased, especially among a class
who had not before attended evangelical preaching.
Soon after this, a few gentlemen, feeling the desira-
bleness of securing his labors permanently in Boston,
consulted informally with him on that subject. Hav-
ing received some encouragement, a meeting was
called at the house of Mr. Safford, December 16, of
the pastors and several loading laymen of all the evan-
gelical Congregational churches in the city, to consider
the question. They were unanimous in the opinion
that it was desirable to form a new church, and invite
him to become its pastor.
As the way for it grew clearer, it became necessary
to decide who should constitute the new church, and
take the responsibility of carrying forward the work.
The gentlemen engaged in it said that they could not
go forward unless Mr. Safford would join them. The
150 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
brethren of Park Street church very strenuously op-
posed his leaving them ; and a meeting was called at
Judge Hubbard's for the purpose of laying before him
the importance of his remaining with them. For six
weeks he remained undecided, asking continually that
the Lord would make known to him the way in which
he should walk. Learning, at length, that one of the'
gentlemen whom he considered more essential to the
enterprise than himself, was wavering, he said, " I will
go down to brother S., and tell him that I can not join
the enterprise unless he does ; and that if he consents,
I will." But the circumstances of the case, and the
responsibilities thrown upon him, led him still, at every
step, earnestly to ask counsel of the Lord. We believe
he never engaged in any enterprise, in which he so
strongly desired that he and every one else connected
with it should constantly seek the divine guidance and
blessing. His life seemed to be an unceasing prayer,
from the day that he first went to consult his pastor
about inviting Mr. Kirk.
In June, 1842, forty-two persons, including Mr. Saf-
ford, were set apart, in the vestry of Park Street
Church, as a distinct body, which afterward received
the name of the Mount Vernon Church. On the first
Sabbath of that month they met for worship in the Old
South Chapel, where they listened to the first sermon
of their pastor, and in the afternoon both of the sacra-
ments of the New Testament were administered.
Thus closed Mr. Safford's connection with Park
Street church, though he still ever cherished a lively
interest in its prosperity, and a very warm attachment
both to its pastor and members. On taking leave of it,
he addressed the following affectionate letter
REVIVAL LABORS. 151
To the SUPERVISING COMMITTEE OP THE PARK STREET
SABBATH SCHOOL.
" DEAR BRETHREN : Having believed it to be my
duty to unite with others for the purpose of forming a
new evangelical church in this city, and having asked
a letter of dismission for that purpose, I now resign to
your care the Sabbath school.
" Allow me to say, dear pastor and brethren, that if
I know any thing of my own heart, nothing but a
sense of duty to the great Head of the church, and to
the souls of my fellow-sinners in this city, could have
made me willing to be separated from the pastor,
church, and Sabbath school with whom I have been so
happily connected, and from whom I have received so
many tokens of forbearance and affection.
" May I ask an interest in your prayers, especially
for the enterprise in which we have engaged ? In re-
turn, it shall be my earnest desire that the good Shep-
herd of the sheep may gather all the lambs of your
flock in his arms, and carry them in his bosom, and
finally present them and you spotless before his throae.
" I am, dear pastor and brethren, with increasing
love, affectionately yours, D. S AFFORD.
" To Rev. Silas Aiken, N. Willis,
Samuel Hubbard, N. Dana."
As his official connection, with both Mr. Aiken and
that church, here closes, it will be appropriate to
conclude this chapter with the following letter of Mr.
Aiken, communicating his views of Mr. Safford's char-
acter and usefulness :
" My acquaintance with him commenced at the time
152 MEMOIll OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
of my settlement in Boston, March, 1837. From the
day of my installation, I had the best opportunities of
learning his character ; but it is riot easy to give a full
and accurate impression of it to one not personally
acquainted with him. Modest and unassuming in his
manners, his voice rarely, if ever, heard in assemblies.
for public discussion, his remarkable efficiency and
great influence over others can be appreciated only by
those who knew him intimately in his every-day life.
He was a man of deeds, rather than of words ; and
of his deeds he made no boast. They were the uncon-
scious development of his inner life.
" For many years, as I was told, Deacon Safford had
been associated with successive colonies in the estab-
lishment of evangelical churches in different parts of
the city, and his name, in any such enterprise, car-
ried witli it something like a charm, insuring ulti-
mate success. At the time alluded to, he was just
returning to his old church home. The Park Street
church had parted with many efficient members to
form the Bowdoin Street, Salem, Pine Street, and Cen-
tml (formerly the Franklin Street) churches. It had
been repeatedly thwarted in endeavoring to obtain a
pastor to succeed Dr. Linsley, and was laboring under
great discouragement. The church needed the effi-
cient aid of Mr. Safford, and he cheerfully returned to
strengthen the things that remained, to renovv Chris-
tian fellowship and labor with those well-known breth-
ren, Samuel Hubbard, Nathaniel Dana, George J.
Homer, Henry Homes, Louis Dwight, and other con-
genial spirits, then associated in Park Street church,
and now united in holier bonds in the presence of
Christ.
REVIVAL LABORS. 153
" I often think of those brethren as they prayed and
labored together on earth ; and I love to think of them
now, and Daniel Safford among them, in the perfect
union and fellowship of heaven. Happy is the pastor
who has the confidence, prayers, and cooperation of
such Christian men. Mr. Safford was at once ap-
pointed deacon, and used that office well. His heart
and hand were in every thing that concerned the wel-
fare of the church and society. Always in his place,
he was ever ready for every good work.
" With no uncommon advantages for education, his
mind was naturally active and vigorous, and, what is
more, habitually under the control of religious prin-
ciple. No one could be much with him without the
conviction that the glory of Christ in the extension of
his kingdom, at home and abroad, was the paramount
object of his life. There was no ostentation about
him. His whole demeanor, even to the tones of his
voice, indicated a humble, self-abasing spirit. He
assumed no airs, put forth no pretensions, was every
where and every day the same unassuming, active,
earnest Christian man. Those who were associated
with him soon found that there was something for
every Christian to do. How they came by the discov-
ery they could hardly tell. It was more from what
they saw in him than from any thing he said of per-
sonal duty. Energy, indomitable energy, was a prom-
inent, if not the leading trait of his character. Once
enlisted in any cause which commended itself to his
judgment, the thought of failure seemed never to enter
his mind. Steadfast to his purpose, and trusting in
God, the work was prosecuted to the end. If unex-
pected difficulties arose, they called forth hitherto
154 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
reserved energies to meet them. I have known him
to engage in arduous enterprises, but never knew him
falter, much less turn back, from any work which he
had undertaken. In ways and means of doing good,
his mind was very fruitful, and in executive energy I
never knew his superior.
" He was a leading spirit in every good enterprise,
without any thought or purpose on his part of being
so. It was a matter of course. He was guileless,
frank, and transparent in all he said and did. His
words were the true index of his heart. No person
acquainted with Deacon Safford would suspect him of
any thing like craft, concealment, or duplicity. Hence
he had great power over other minds, which was owing
in part to his sound judgment of men and things, and
an almost intuitive perception of what was practicable,
and how a good object could best be accomplished.
Any enterprise in which he saw his way clear to en-
gage, was very sure to be successful. Great confidence
was placed in his practical judgment. When it be-
came known that he had put his hand to any work,
there was a general expectation that it would be car-
ried through ; and his power to enlist others consisted
mainly in the fact, that he assumed the chief responsi-
bility himself, and stood ready to give more time, and
thought, and money, than he asked from any body else.
" Nor was it only great public objects that could en-
list his sympathies, and incite him to action ; as mis-
sions to the heathen, the evangelization of our own
country, the formation of new churches, and the build-
ing or remodeling of houses of worship in the city, or
the endowment of seminaries of learning. These
were objects which shared largely in his regards. But
REVIVAL LABORS.
he cared no less earnestly for the church to which he
belonged, aiid its Sabbath school for the poor, and
ignorant, and vicious of the city ; and some of his
most efficient labors were expended in these more
private ways of usefulness. To him foreign objects
and home objects were but different parts of the same
work of the Lord ; and with an enlightened liberality
he contributed to each as, in his judgment, its relative
importance required.
"The piety of Deacon Safford was remarkably
cheerful. Amid his self-forgetting cares and labors
for others, he always seemed in a pleasant mood when
meeting his friends ; and this was the more noticeable
as connected with his characteristic energy and de-
cision. At home and abroad, in the counting room
and at the prayer meeting, he was the same hopeful,
happy Christian. There was a rare combination of
good elements in his Christian character. That he
had faults and imperfections is not to be doubted. He
thought he had many. Yet he was a fine model of a
Christian layman. The Lord grant that his mantle
may fall upon many others.
" How much the cause of evangelical religion in
Boston and elsewhere is indebted to his labors ; how
many of Christ's disciples have been quickened in
duty by his example ; how many of the ignorant and
destitute have been, by his instrumentality, instructed
and brought to the knowledge of Christ, will not be
known in the present world. Deacon Safford has left
behind many precious memorials of his Christian fidel-
ity, nor can wo doubt that in the day of Jesus Christ
it will be seen and known, as it can not be now, that
his abounding in the work of the Lord was not in vain."
MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
CHAPTER XI.
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH.
Dependence upon God's Blessing. Object sought in the Formation of the
Church. .Regard for the Poor. Readiness to yield to the Opinions of
his Brethren. The Church Prayer Meetings. Cultivation of Benevo-
lence. The Two Cent Subscription. Construction of the Church Edi-
fice. Efforts to render it convenient and pleasant. Aversion to Dis-
play. Social Circles in the Church. Gathering in the Masses. Labors
for the spiritual Growth of the Church. Relations to his Pastor, as
described in a Communication of Mr. Kirk.
IN the undertaking described in the last chapter,
Mr. Safford's dependence was placed, in a preeminent
degree, upon the guidance and blessing of God. It
was the continual burden of his prayers, " If thy pres-
ence go not with me, carry us not up hence." And it
was the inward assurance, received by undoubting
faith, that the response had been given, " My pres-
ence shall go with thee," which inspired him'with
courage. He had a clear discernment of the responsi-
bilities involved in the enterprise, and of the specific
objects to be accomplished ; and he " had a mind to
work." It was with him a maxim in spiritual, as well
as in temporal things, " We may expect God's blessing
upon our labors, not without them." Previously, as
we have seen, he had been in his church relations a
devoted laborer; but he had never before as now
entered into all the details required to give a church
the greatest efficiency ; never had studied so carefully
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH. 157
what it is that constitutes the spring of its life and
power, and renders it truly the light of the world and
the salt of the earth.
The pastor continuing to be a member of his family
for mote than two years after his settlement, they be-
came of one mind in respect to all the interests of the
church, daily conferring, planning, and praying to-
gether. The fear had been expressed that the forma-
tion of this church might injure the interests of the
other churches in the central part of the city, partic-
ularly that in Park Street. Therefore it was his aim,
and that of his brethren, to prevent this result ; and
only one person left that church with him.
He had desired the formation of the new church
with reference to the unconverted thousands in the
city who attend no place of worship, and also the large
numbers who had professed religion before coming
hither, and were living in neglect of its ordinances,
but who were manifestly interested in Mr. Kirk's
preaching. It was to gather in these persons that he
labored, front the day that he put his hand to the work
until his death. He had no sympathy with the desire
expressed by some persons to attract the higher classes
especially. He would make no effort and subscribe to
no policy looking to this, but would welcome the rich
and the poor equally ; he was anxious to prevent the
formation of cliques in the church, recognizing, in this
relation, no distinction except that arising from pe-
culiar resemblance to the Master. He had a full
appreciation of those impressive texts in which the
church is compared to the body, particularly the fol-
lowing : " Those members of the body which we
think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow
14
158 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
more abundant honor ; that there should be no schism
in the body, but that the members should have the same
care one of another." To promote brotherly love and
union was a cherished purpose with him ; and he was
willing to sacrifice almost any thing except principle
to effect this.
Sometimes lie found his brethren differing from him
in judgment respecting the course adapted to do the
most good. At such times, after expressing his views,
if they could not be brought to coincide with him, he
would cheerfully yield ; always acknowledging the
principle that the majority should govern. It was
proposed, for example, that the weekly church meeting
for prayer and conference should be confined to the
members of the church. As this meeting was entirely
devotional, admitting no secular business, and was
usually attended by the pastor, Mr. Safford differed in
his judgment decidedly from those who favored the
plan. He thought that, if it was profitable for the
members of this church, it would be for other Chris-
tians worshiping with us ; he would allow these and
all others to come who were disposed, and could be
thus profited. Perhaps in this instance there was, on
both sides, more determination than in almost any
other of equal importance in our early history. But
after the discussion, the vote being taken, it was found
almost unanimous for an exclusive meeting. Return-
ing home, he remarked, " I yield to the majority ; they
have made a mistake, but they will find it out in time."
He waited patiently two or three years for this change,
when, without opposition, the doors were thrown open
for all who wished to enter.
Next to the promotion of brotherly kindness and
MOUNT VEBNON CHURCH. 159
sympathy in the church, he considered it important to
cultivate the spirit of practical benevolence by contrib-
iiting freely to extend the knowledge of salvation to
all men. He believed that, to enjoy the benefits of
the gospel ourselves in the highest degree, we must
give as freely as we have received. He coveted for
this church the fulfillment of the promises to those who
thus give, desiring that each member, even the poorest,
might share in them.
On one occasion, after the pastor had preached a
sermon on cheerful giving, in which he had requested
every one to subscribe, though it were but a single
penny, we shall never forget with what delight Mr.
Safford received the subscription of an aged woman,
blind with one eye, who had herself been for years a
recipient of charity. He waited patiently for her to
unroll her handkerchief, in which were carefully de-
posited two cents, the avails of her earnings with her
needle. As she placed them in his hands, she said,
with an expression of great pleasure, " Mabbe I shall
get two more by next Sunday." He wrote her name
upon the list, with the sum attached, anticipating with
joy the time when her Lord will acknowledge it as an
expression of her love to him ; for he said he believed
if there was no record kept in heaven of any other
offering on that day, there would be 0110 of Ann
Lane's.
At the close of each year, when the charities of the
church were added up, he always examined the record
with interest, hoping to find them in advance of those
of former years. He regarded this as a criterion of
the life and energy of the church, and an eminent
means of its prosperity, believing that " there is that
160 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOBD.
scattereth and yet increaseth ; and there is that with-
holdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to pov-
erty."
He advocated the use of subscription papers on some
occasions, because he thought it well for us to see our-
selves, and be sometimes willing to have others see
what we gave, and whether we were each contributing
our proportion in support of a good cause ; referring
to the subscription lists in the Old Testament, and also
to Christ's own words, " Let your light so shine before
men that they may see your good works, and glorify
your Father which is in heaven." It was well understood
that he never proclaimed his own deeds of this nature
to obtain praise of men, much less because he fancied
himself thereby laying up merit ; for he never forgot
his entire sinfulness by nature, nor ceased to fix his
only hope of salvation upon the atoning blood of
Christ.
In saying this it is not intended to intimate that he
stood alone. This was the spirit inculcated from the
pulpit, and exemplified by many in the church, with
whom he was united in truest fellowship. The fruits
of it were apparent in the fact, that in the thirteen
years preceding his death, the benevolent offerings of
the church, not including sixty thousand dollars
paid for the erection of the edifice, and fifty-six thou-
sand for current expenses, exceeded one hundred
and ten thousand dollars.
The corner stone of the church edifice was laid on
the 4th of July, 1843, and the building was dedicated
the 4th of January, 1844. The spirit of the enter-
prise was expressed in the passage, " God forbid that
I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus
MOUNT VERXON CUURCil. Page 160.
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH. 161
Christ," on which the dedication sermon of the pastor
was founded.
Mr. Safford was a member of the building committee,
of which the Hon. George W. Crockett was chairman.
The action of this board was always characterized by
great harmony, although their views on subordinate
points sometimes differed. It is interesting to re-
member how the esteemed chairman, now no longer
on earth, when his own preferences were not adopted,
which was but seldom, used to say in his peculiarly
pleasant manner, " Yes, they floored me there ; " as
if boasting, rather than complaining, of the fact.
Mr. Safford gave much time and thought to the fin-
ishing of the interior of the building. Many new
arrangements were introduced, some at his own sug-
gestion, others at that of the pastor, or his associates
of the committee. Among them was the construction
of the doors, above and below, so that they might open
and shut noiselessly ; of the book board of the pulpit
so that it may slide up or down, as each preacher may
require ; the form of the pews, enabling every person
in the house to see the preacher. " We do not in-
tend,'' he said, " that there shall be an uncomfortable
or unpleasant seat in the building, if we can prevent
it. I want the poorest person there to have as good a
seat as the one I shall occupy myself." This he ex-
erted his skill to secure, not only by the form of the
pews, but the bight and shape of the backs, and the
upholstery. Nothing was too minute in his view to
be other than as perfect as possible. But he desired,
at the same time, to preserve the greatest plainness
and simplicity consistent with fitness and durability.
He would have nothing to attract the eye on entering,
14*
162 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPFORD.
or to divert the mind while the truth was being pro-
claimed. The presence of God filling the house he
regarded as the glory of the interior ; and while he
approved of beautifying the city which he loved with a
strong affection, yet he preferred to dispense with a
costly exterior and tower, considering that these would
involve increased pew-rents, and hinder those in mod-
erate circumstances from participating with him in the
privileges of the sanctuary. Yet he wished all to pay
something. In his judgment it was better to have
low-priced pews than free seats, believing that the rule
would apply in this case, that we value that least
which costs us nothing.
Benevolent sewing circles in our congregations were
at this time considered by some as nuisances, because
they were constituted by subscription, and met at the
houses of the members. The tendency, accordingly,
was to exclusiveness. those only being invited to sub-
scribe whose society would be congenial ; and it was
thought also that they were very much devoted to un-
profitable gossip.
Mr. Safford preferred that the whole congregation
should constitute a circle, the ladies to meet at six
o'clock and the gentlemen at eight, the invitation to
be given from the pulpit ; and before the edifice was
commenced, a meeting of this kind was organized in
his own house. Large carpeted vestries, with cush-
ioned seats, were then unknown in our churches. The
committee decided to provide one such, capable of
accommodating six hundred people, with several
smaller rooms, furnished in a similar manner. The
circle was thus amply accommodated, and since then
has continued in successful operation.
MOUNT VEENON CHUECH. 163
The young people wished to form an association in
addition to this. They did so, and met at Mr. Safford's
house once in four weeks during six months, for a
number of years. He would have this invitation also
given from the pulpit, that all the youth in the congre-
gation should be free to come. This being before the
formation of Christian associations for young men,
now so common, it gave to many the only opportunity
they had v of spending a pleasant evening in social
intercourse, the attendance varying from fifty to one
hundred. Simple refreshments were provided, and
Mr. Safford improved the occasion to make himself
acquainted, especially with those who were not likely
otherwise to be known by any in the church. These
meetings he greatly enjoyed, for he could always make
himself one with young people, and they never con-
sidered his presence a restraint. The avails of this
circle, as of the one with which he was before con-
nected, were devoted to the support of colportage in
France.
Nor was his interest confined to purely religious
matters in his sympathy with them. lie entered with
great spirit into the formation of a little history class,
composed of young persons in the society. They met
at his house during two winters, and he took his part
in the exercises, writing once an interesting sketch
from Scottish history.
Any possible effort or sacrifice for the good of the
whole he made most cheerfully. The congregation
soon became so large that the pastor found him-
self unable to become personally acquainted witli
them. Mr. Safford strove to remedy this difficulty as
far as- possible. For this purpose he often invited to his
164 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
house as many as his parlors would accommodate, and
sometimes more, to render them mutually acquainted,
as well as to introduce them to their pastor. Often has
the remark been made, " Mr. Safford was the first one
who took me by the hand, and made me feel at home ;
when I met him I always knew that I met a true
friend."
For many years after the church was finished, a
supply was furnished for the pulpit in the afternoon of
the Sabbath, during the winter season, that the pastor
might preach in the evenings to large numbers who
would otherwise be unable to attend. Mr. Safford's
influence was exerted, and his money gladly paid, for
this purpose. He always kept in view the masses, who
had none to care for their souls ; and often, without
the knowledge of his pastor, he inserted an advertise-
ment of this evening service in the Saturday's paper
a practice which was among the few things about
which he and his pastor differed. He could not enjoy
these good things alone ; his pew, however well con-
structed and cushioned, was not comfortable to him
while any thing remained which he could do to fill
other seats. He thought of the thousands in the city
needing as much as he did the water of life, and
echoed the voice of mercy, " Ho, every one that thirst-
eth, come to the waters and drink."
There was no service he rendered more cheerfully
than that of aiding the sexton in accommodating
strangers with seats. His eye, after reaching his pew,
would uniformly turn to the porch to see if any were
waiting there ; and it was very common for him to
return and wait upon them in, often resigning his own
seat to them. Many remember the kind welcome they
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH. 165
have thus received when they have entered with a fear
of intrusion.
But success in the sale of the pews, and crowded
attendance, did not satisfy him, without the conversion
of souls. His earnest prayer continually ascended,
that the preaching might be accompanied by the Holy
Ghost. The brethren who heard will never forget his
earnest and solemn manner, as he endeavored to stir
up their minds to prayer and personal effort, by ad-
verting to the extensive and marked success which had
followed the preaching of the pastor before being set-
tled among them ; the responsibility they had assumed
in calling him hither, and thus confining his labors to
this field ; reminding them, too, again and again, of
their design in the formation of this church.
Still he feared lest they should lean too much upon
the preaching of the pastor, and feel excused from
their part of the work personal efforts with the im-
penitent. Many have said, " It was a conversation
which Mr. Safford had with me which first decided
my mind on the subject of religion." One gentleman
says, " I was a very thoughtless man, and did not live
comfortably with my wife, because she refused to go
with me to the theater and other places of worldly
amusement. Our pastor had, on one occasion,
preached a very solemn discourse, but I should prob-
ably have soon forgotten it, as I always had before
done ; but Mr. Safford, leaving his own aisle, came
around to ours, followed me out, and laying his hand
upon my shoulder, said, * C., what are you doing?
Will you go on and perish in spite of all this?' I
could have resisted the sermon, but I could not resist
Mr. Safford's kindness and faithfulness." This gen-
166 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOED.
tleman was converted, and is now a member of the
church.*
We have hitherto in this chapter spoken chiefly of
Mr. Safford's character and influence as a member of
the church. What he was in his relations to his pas-
tors may be seen from the following testimony of Dr.
Kirk, who was perhaps more favorably situated for
knowing him thoroughly than either of the others.
" In the Congregational churches the deacons not
only ' serve tables,' they are also the confidential ad-
visory council of the pastor. For the peculiar duties
of that office Mr. Safford was qualified to an extraordi-
nary degree. The pastor needs some medium of com-
munication with the people to know many tilings
about their ever-varying spiritual and temporal condi-
tions which he can not learn by personal intercourse
with them ; and they, too, need, besides the privilege
of free access to him, a channel through which they
can reach him indirectly. Into the spirit of this office
our brother entered most fully, and brought to its ser-
vice a sound judgment, an acute discrimination, an
earnest and self-sacrificing love not often witnessed.
" It is now more than twenty years since I first met
Mr. Safford ; and having enjoyed the opportunity of
knowing very many good men, with whom I may com-
pare him, my conviction is, that I never saw human
nature come nearer perfection than in him ; while I
never saw the man that more repudiated the claim of
having attained to it.
* The church, at its organization, consisted of forty-seven mem-
bers ; in 1857, or at the time of his death, there had been added
eleven hundred and thirty-three seven hundred and thirty-five
from other churches, and three hundred and ninety-eight by pro-
fession.
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH. 167
" The trait of character in which he excelled was
not so much unselfishness as positive love. He not
only did not seek to be prominent, or honored, or com-
fortable, or rich, or treated with consideration ; but he
was always seeking to make others good, honored, and
happy. He could scarcely enjoy even the pleasure
of eating an apple his favorite fruit unless he
shared it with a friend. He preeminently acted upon
the Saviour's maxim, ' It is more blessed to give than
to receive.' He loved his pastors, not with a blind
admiration, not because they were of his denomination,
and laboring for his church ; but chiefly because they
had given themselves up to the salvation of men's
souls as their chief employment. Their popularity
was important in his view, mainly because it would
facilitate their accomplishing this great work. He
knew how to encourage without flattering. He knew
there was no aid to a pastor more efficient than pray-
ing. No man had a more clear discernment of the
true end of the ministry, and of the adaptation of
preaching to this design. For himself, he desired the
clear, unqualified statement, by the preacher, of every
doctrine contained in the Scriptures, and derived from
them by an honest and intelligent interpretation of
their language. But with him doctrine was designed
for practical results. ' All Scripture was given by
inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine and
for reproof, that the man of God may be perfect ; thor-
oughly furnished unto every good work.' Personal
perfection and a useful life were the results of preach-
ing which he most earnestly sought for himself. No
searching of the heart, no piercing by ' the sword of
the Spirit,' was ever complained of by him. The
168 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPPORD.
reproofs uttered in the pulpit he received, first and
chiefly, for himself. Generally in advance of the pastor
in his earnestness for the revival of religion in the
church, he was never harsh in his judgment, nor cen-
sorious in the expression of his desire that others
might be more in earnest. It was manifest that noth-
ing furnished him more intense gratification than
seeing his pastor awakened to any unusual degree of
earnestness. A stickler for no one method of useful-
ness because it had been used, he welcomed whatever
promised to give the gospel more ready access to men's
hearts. If a preacher presented himself whose style
or topics arrested attention, with no -diminution of
interest in his pastor, he did every thing in his power
to sustain that preacher.
" But I would speak more particularly of his relation
to his pastor. I have not an idea of that interesting
relation which Mr. Safford did not reduce to the reality
of every-day life. Our intimacy was that of brothers,
for sixteen years. We studied, labored, prayed, jour-
neyed, suffered, and rejoiced together. He was not an
angel, but a man ; not a perfected saint, but a man
lamenting his own defects, which he saw as I could
not. But in him my heart rested with a complete
repose. If he reproved me, I knew it was from an
honest heart, longing for my perfection. If he opposed
my plan, I knew it was generally from a profounder
wisdom than mine. In these points we were in per-
fect harmony ; that the kingdom of Christ is not
merely conservative, but reformatory and aggressive ;
that the ministry was not instituted with supreme ref-
erence to its incumbents, but to its issues and the good
of the people ; that the true recruiting of the church
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH. 169
of God is mainly from the middle section of society,
and its principal triumphs among those occupying the
less prominent conditions of life.
" The new church was organized, and Mr. Safford
elected deacon. What he was to that church, and to
its pastor, can better be felt by us all, than described
by any one. My health, my comfort, my success, were
as dear to him as if they were his own if I dared
to say all I believed, I would say, dearer. The proofs
of this were so constant, so unstudied and natural,
some of them so costly, that I could not enumerate
them all. I only ask the liberty of stating a question
I proposed to him once in a little group of us who
were studying the Scriptures together. We came to
the passage in the Acts of the Apostles, in which Luke
says of himself and Paul, The brethren * brought us
on our way.' Some person inquired what that meant.
I turned to our brother, smiling, and said, * Brother
Safford can tell you.' His simple reply was, ' / think
I understand US I speak of his costly contributions
to my comfort, and allude to instances like these :
Twice I crossed the ocean to recruit my strength, the
entire expense of each journey being borne by him ;
and when, on my return, other dear friends wished to
bear their share of this testimonial of affection, lie
passed their contributions over to an investment for
my benefit.
" But in the proper work of the ministry I experi-
enced his peculiar worth, and saw what a deacon may
be to his pastor. When I consulted him on any step to
be taken, 1 was sure to have the benefit of a spiritual,
as well as a sound judgment. The first aspect of tho
proposed measure which he contemplated was, its rela-
15
170 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
tions to the glory of God, the spiritual welfare of the
church, and the salvation of men.
"If I had any plan for concentrating men's thoughts
oil their religious interests, he was never behind me
in zeal. He was ready to devote his time, house, and
heart to do whatever would facilitate the success of his
pastor's work. His aim, in fact, seemed to be, to aid
me to the utmost of his power, and then to surround
me with prayer. And I may say, I know not how a
member of the church could more faithfully and effec-
tively promote his pastor's usefulness and comfort.
His was a true Christian self-denial, without will-
worship, without any ascetic element, or any morbid
feature. Nor should it be passed over without notice,
that his zeal, fervent as it was, was balanced by the
soundness of his judgment. He loved his own church
fervently ; but cherished, at the same time, the most
lively interest in the prosperity of all other churches.
He loved his denomination, but he loved the church
catholic even more earnestly. Once, when I recom-
mended to him a denominational religious newspaper,
his reply indicated that he took but little interest in
reading on points that divide true Christians. This I
do not hold up as a model for all, but as an index of
the catholic tone of his piety. In the meetings and
exercises of the Evangelical Alliance, at London, he
saw more than merely pleasant meetings and kind
words. He believed that between men holding the
essential doctrines of the gospel there ought to be no
partition walls that should shut out the most lively
sympathy, delight in each other, and in the prosperity
of each.
" I would also speak of him as a peacemaker. His
MOUNT VERNON CHURCH. 171
maxim was, * It requires two to make a quarrel ; '
and as he never would be the second, no other could
be the first with him. He took no part in the quarrels
of others. He was with both, and loved both parties,
and aimed simply to get them to regard each other
kindly, and to settle their difficulties as Christians
at once.
" He never entertained his friends with recitals of
others' failings. There was a delicate reserve, a cau-
tion, in speaking to the disadvantage of the absent,
which showed great purity and kindness of heart.
" To him Mount Vernon Church owes a debt of grat-
itude which, I doubt not, all in it who knew him, deeply
feel ; and for myself this is but a slight tribute of
thankfulness for favors. On this Memoir, as on a
monument, would I inscribe
"' Sacred to the memory of a true believer and dear
friend, and to the glory of Him who made him what
he was eminent among the saints.' "
172 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
CHAPTER XII.
VISIT TO EUROPE.
Appointed Delegate to the World's Evangelical Convention m London.
Accompanied by his Pastor. Sails from Boston. Incidents of the
Voyage. Arrival at London. Meetings. Letter to Deacon Palmer.
Journey to Scotland. Edinburgh. Glasgow. Manchester. Letters
from Home. Departure from England. Brighton. Paris. Fontaine-
bleau. The River Seine. Brussels. Antwerp. Cologne. The Rhine
and its Cities. Mannheim. Strasburg. Basle. Lausanne. Geneva.
Tour among the Alps. Chumouni. Mont Blanc. Martigny. Lake
of Geneva. Journey to Paris. Sickness. London. The Evangelical
Conference. Dublin. The Giant's Causeway. Belfast. Liverpool.
Embarkation for Home. Arrival.
IN the year 1846 a convention had been called, in
the city of London, for the purpose of promoting the
spirit of brotherly love throughout the Protestant
churches of the world. To this meeting Mr. Safford
and his pastor were appointed delegates by the Mount
Vernon church. The question of accepting the ap-
pointment he weighed, as a Christian man, in " the
balances of the sanctuary." On the one side was the
amount of money it would cost for two to make the
voyage ; for it admitted with him of no question
whether he should bear his pastor on his way if they
should go. Every consideration seemed to favor an
affirmative decision. Chief, we believe, in his mind,
were the improvement of his pastor's health, and the
promotion of union in Christ's church.
In May they sailed for Liverpool ; and his own jour-
VISIT TO EUROPE. 173
nal and correspondence will henceforth best continue
the narrative.
To MRS. SAPPORD.
HALIFAX, Sabbath, May 2, 1846.
MY DEAR WIPE: Since I saw the wave of your
handkerchief, I have learned that seasickness is not
all in the imagination. I have thought much of you
and of the church to-day, noticing the time of the
morning prayer meeting, and thinking of you at this
moment as seated around the table of our common
Lord and Saviour.
Left Halifax at three P. M. Distant one hundred
and eighty-six miles. Can eat my full allowance, and
feel perfectly well. For all which I would be thankful
to the great Giver of all good. Find we can enjoy
united and private prayer in our state room without
interruption.
May 5. Clear weather ; wind from N. N. E. The
pitching and rocking of the ship is to me as delightful
and soothing as the rocking of the cradle to the infant.
" Thus far the Lord has led me on."
May 6, 12 o'clock. Six hundred and twenty-two
miles from Halifax ; weather delightful ; appetite,
food, health, and spirits, all good.
Monday, llth. Nineteen hundred and twenty-
three miles from Halifax. Quite a gale last evening ;
sea broke over the upper deck. Notwithstanding, I
slept well, and have done so every night on board.
Wednesday, \%th. Discovered the coast of Ire-
15
174 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
land at five o'clock, P. M., yesterday, and arrived at
Liverpool at nine, P. M. ; twelve days and seven hours
from Boston. Had our trunks passed through the
custom house just in time to take the cars for London,
at quarter past nine o'clock. Saw but little of Liver-
pool, except in passing from the wharf to the custom
house, and from there to the railroad depot, a distance
of two miles. The city has a somber appearance, the
buildings being of dark freestone, or sandstone, of
brick, and almost black. I ought to have remarked
that Captain Lott, the officers, and waiters on board
the steamer, were all attentive, kind, and gentlemanly,
as were also the passengers, except that there was more
smoking and wine-drinking than was agreeable to me.
To MRS. SAFFORD.
LONDON, May 16, 1846.
We have arrived safely in this great city, a world
in itself, and are now in lodgings at Mrs. F.'s, Fitz-
roy Square. When the Sabbath comes, I am ready to
sigh for one of those Mount Vernon church Sal>
baths ; I think of that Sunday morning prayer meet-
ing, and look around from seat to seat upon those
dear Christian friends whom I have so often met there.
I could name them now, and tell you the seats they
usually occupied. I can almost hear their earnest
prayers for the presence of the Holy Spirit, for a bless-
ing upon the labors of their " dear pastor," and upon
the instructions of the Sunday school ; and although
absent in body, I am still present in heart and mind.
At two o'clock here I think it is nine there, and that
they are about to commence that meeting. Then I
think of that beloved class in the Sunday school,
how gladly I would be with them, and then of the
VISIT TO EUROPE. 175
public services. But I will leave this subject, upon
which my mind so loves to linger, and tell you about
my Sabbaths since I left home.
On account of our arriving at Halifax on the Sab-
bath, service was omitted on shipboard that day. The
next Sabbath, the sea was rough, and Mr. Kirk some-
what seasick ; yet he preached his " blind Bartinieus "
sermon ; but on account of the motion was obliged to
sit most of the time. The officers and crew, and those
of the passengers who were not sick, attended the
service. Persons of seven different nations, and of
various religious views, and even some infidels, were
present. They were all solemn and attentive, and
some eyes were filled with tears. Although there were
smoking, drinking, and gambling during the voyage,
yet it was evident that the example of a few individ-
uals exerted a restraining influence, from the apologies
that were made for indulging in these practices.
Our ride in the cars from Liverpool to London, a
distance of two hundred and twelve miles, was per-
formed in eight and a half hours, including stoppings.
The cars are very roomy and comfortable, and so
arranged that the head is not only supported at the
back, but also on the sides; consequently one may
sleep very comfortably in them. We passed numerous
manufacturing cities and villages, with their tall chim-
neys, say from one hundred to two hundred feet high,
sending forth volleys of thick black smoke. The
scenery is pleasant, the land generally highly culti-
vated, although I should think having a rather light,
sandy soil. Vegetation is about two weeks later than
in the vicinity of Boston.
After breakfast this morning, wo set off on an
exploring tour. Our first object was to consult in
176 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
respect to going to Palestine ; but after learning the
time it would require, both by water and across the
continent, we were obliged to relinquish the idea alto-
gether. We then called upon Alderman Challis, an
old friend of Mr. Kirk's, who conducted us to a meet-
ing of Congregational ministers. Two or three hun-
dred were assembled, discussing various important
subjects. Soon after we entered, Rev. Dr. Blackburn
introduced Mr. Kirk and his deacon to the meeting,
who received us with numerous greetings. After leav-
ing that meeting we went into Exeter Hall, to attend
a meeting for the better observance of the Sabbath,
but could not find a vacant seat.
After dinner we attended a meeting of the Con-
gregational Colonial Missionary Society, and heard a
number of speeches, manifesting an excellent spirit,
especially toward their colonies in America. Near
the close Mr. Kirk spoke fifteen minutes, as I
thought, in a very happy strain ; which was frequently
interrupted and followed by expressions of approbation.
After taking his seat, the Rev. Mr. Binney, who was in
Boston last year, gave a glowing description of Mount
Vernon Church, " its spacious altar, carpeted floors,
cushioned seats, and upholstered pews ; also its elegant
chapel below, large enough for a common church, car-
peted and cushioned."
During the day we visited St. James's Park, a
beautiful spot, in the center of which is a pond, prob-
ably a quarter of a mile long, with swans, geese, and
ducks of various kinds, in great numbers, swimming
upon it. We passed by Buckingham Palace, Her
Majesty's mansion, to Hyde Park, where the nobility
often ride in elegant style, with a coachman and two
footmen, dressed in uniform of small-clothes, and
VISIT TO EUROPE. 177
white stockings or white top-boots. While standing
at this corner, the police who, by the way, are to be
seen all over the city stopped all carriages, of every
kind, that were passing in the street, which, in a few
moments, produced a large collection on both sides.
Immediately after, we saw four men, mounted on
horseback, wearing red coats, coming toward the gates.
They were followed by an open barouche, in which
were seated Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. We
were within six feet of the carriage, and had a full
view of them.
May 18. To-day have crossed the suspension
bridge, through the tunnel under the Thames, and
passed down the river in a steamer several miles below
London Bridge. This is the lowest bridge upon the
river. Above, the river abounds in small steamers,
coal boats, and other small craft ; below, for miles it is
lined with larger vessels on both sides, sometimes six
to eight ships deep, beside the numerous docks, filled
with shipping. In the evening, had a long and pleasant
conversation with the young ladies in the house on the
subject of doing good to the poor and vicious in cities.
To Mr. JULIUS A. PALMER.
May 21, 1846.
MY DEAR FRIEND AND BROTHER : You have doubt-
less learned that we have been obliged to abandon the
hope of seeing the land promised to Abraham, which
was for thirty years the residence of our adorable
Saviour. This is no small disappointment to us. But
if we may inhabit that land, of which this is only a
type ; reside in some of those mansions which Jesus
has gone to prepare, and be witli him where he is, not
178 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
for thirty years only, but duration without end, we
can afford to wait, and to bear this disappointment.
Mr. Kirk finds so many old friends here, that it is
difficult for him to get away. Sunday evening he
preached in Surrey Chapel, where he labored in a
revival in 1839. That large building was crowded ;
and at the close of the meeting the congregation sung
a revival hymn and tune which they had learned from
him at that time.
We find our conversation and prayers frequently
dwelling upon the dear friends in Mount Vernon
church and society. I endeavor to keep the run of all
your meetings on week evenings, as well as the Sab-
bath, making an allowance of five hours, so as to know
the very time when you are engaged in worship.
Your evening meetings are at an hour when I am
sometimes asleep; but your Sabbath meetings, espe-
cially the Sabbath morning prayer meeting, and the
Sabbath school, I never forget. Do let me hear from
you, and the church, too, by the next steamer. Love
to brothers H. and A., Mrs. P. and the children, and
our whole family in Christ.
Your much obliged brother, DANIEL SAFFORD.
Friday, May 22.
At nine o'clock in the morning, left London in the
cars for Newcastle. The weather was pleasant so that
we had a very good view of the country, with its low,
dark brick houses, covered with tile or thatch, gen-
erally the former. Farm houses are not placed in the
center of the farms, as in New England, but in small
clusters or villages, with a little church in the midst.
Sometimes not a house can be seen for miles. The land
VISIT TO EUBOPE. 179
appears not to be very good naturally, but cold and
wet : to obviate this, it is nearly all laid down in waves
eight or twelve feet wide, so that the water can run otf
in the drains between them. Multitudes of blind
ditches also are made of earthen ware. In addition
to this, they manure the land highly, using a great
deal of lime, which is easily obtained where limestone
and coal are so plenty.
In all of this part of England, cattle and sheep
are very abundant and fine. In the north of England
the land improves, and after we entered Scotland it
appeared better than any we saw in England ; and in
a perfect state of cultivation. Here wheat is raised in
great abundance, and a large amount kept over each
winter. Upon some farms we saw from fifteen to
twenty large stacks of old wheat. The fodder for their
cattle, and their wheat, are all stacked out. The latter
is not threshed until they have a market for it, because
it will keep better in a stack than in any other way.
We passed directly by the castle of the Duke of
Northumberland, a very extensive and splendid edifice ;
also the palace of the Duke of Sutherland, and rode
for miles under the walls which inclose his grounds,
occasionally getting a view which was beautiful indeed.
The yearly income of each of these dukes is said to
be five hundred thousand pounds. These are the men
who refused to soil land for free churches. We passed
also Dunbar and Preston Pans, where some of Crom-
well's battles were fought ; arriving at Edinburgh at
half past one, P. M.
At Newcastle wo stopped at the Queen's Head ;
here we stop at the Black Bull. We have taken two
largo chambers, with a., door connecting them, pleas-
180 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
antly situated, for which we pay two shillings each,
two shillings for breakfast, one and sixpence for tea,
and for dinner according to the articles ordered. We
have a table by ourselves, and take our meals at any
hour we please ; every thing is neaj; and good.
To MRS. SAFFORD.
EDINBURGH, May 26, 1846.
MY DEAR WIFE : This city, in many respects, and
the people in it, remind me of my beloved Boston
more than any other city I have seen in Europe. It
has not the smoky, gloomy' aspect of other cities
through which I have passed ; but the broad, neatly-
paved streets, the public monuments and buildings,
and the private dwellings generally, greatly surpass
those of Boston, or any other city I ever saw. Al-
though our house is in a central part of the city, it is
as quiet, both within and without, as our own dear
home. When we went out to go to church, the side-
walks were filled with people walking to the house of
God silently, and, as it appeared to me, more seriously
than the people in our streets. Their dress and ap-
pearance are more like those of our own people than I
have elsewhere seen.
This morning, after private and social prayer, and
a season of conversation about our friends at home, the
dear church, (which appears dearer to us than ever,) and
many of its individual members, a very delightful
exercise, in which we often indulge, I went into my
bed room, and read Paul's Letter to the Philippians.
As I thought of him in prison at Rome, chained to a
Roman soldier, yet exhorting Christians to persevere
in their Christian course, joying and rejoicing in their
VISIT TO EUROPE. 181
faith and holiness, espepially as I saw how his whole
soul was filled with Christ, having a desire to depart
and be with him, but willing to live on in suffering in
prison, his whole will being in subjection to the will
of God, I had such a sense of my own vileness, un-
faithfulness, and ingratitude, as almost overwhelmed
me. I wept, I prayed, I read and meditated, until, to
the glory of the grace of God be it said, the Lord
Jesus did manifest himself to me in a manner more
delightful than I have experienced for years. It
seemed to me that if I had a thousand lives, I could
give them all to him. I knew I loved him better than
all that this earth affords. I believe now that he loves
me. How affecting the thought that he can love one
who has always been so unfaithful ! How many times
you have tried to lead me to say, " Yes, I know I love
Christ " ! But to your repeated question, " Do you not
know that you love Christ?" I could only reply,
" I don't Imoiv ; I hope I do." Just now, I can say, if
I do not love him, I know not what I do love. Let us,
my dear wife, like Paul, count all things but loss for
the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jes'us our
Lord, that we may win Christ, and be found in him,
not having our own righteousness, which is of the law,
but that which is through the faith of Christ, the
righteousness which is of God by faith.
Monday, May 25. After visiting various places of
interest in the city, we went into the meeting of the
General Assembly of the Established church of Scot-
land, which is in session at the same time with that of
the Free church. They spoke very kindly of the Free
church, and of their movements, and are evidently
16
182 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
stimulated by them to greater exertion, especially in
the missionary cause. They complained that about
one third of their parishes had not contributed any
thing for missions. There is reason to hope that the
separation will be overruled by Providence for the
quickening of them to greater efforts in this cause.
We next went into the meeting of the Free church,
where were, I should think, three times as many
assembled, and much more spirit and interest man-
ifested.
Glasgow, May 27, 1846. This morning, after some
consultation, we concluded to separate for a few
days ; Mr. Kirk in pursuit of his friends in the south-
western part of Scotland, and I to come to this place,
with the hope of meeting in Manchester, on Saturday.
Accordingly, at eleven o'clock, I left the beautiful city
of Edinburgh, and passing the ruins of Nidding Castle,
and some other objects of interest, arrived at this city
about one o'clock. After supplying myself with a
map of the city and the " Stranger's Guide," I made
my way to the Necropolis, or City of the Dead. It is
upon a hill four hundred feet high, ascended by ser-
pentine walks, and ornamented with shrubbery and
flowers. Upon these walks are erected monuments of
every size and form, many of them very elegant.
Upon the extreme summit of the hill is that of John
Knox, with his figure holding a Bible in his hand.
The view of this hill from below, with its numerous
monuments rising one above another, is one of the most
beautiful sights of the kind I ever saw. This is all,
worthy of note, that I have yet observed in Glasgow.
Here, as in all other cities I have thus far seen in
Europe, the poorer class of the population is very large,
VISIT TO EUROPE. 183
and the females especially are filthy and degraded in
the extreme, standing, walking, or sitting about the
streets, with heads, arms, and feet bare.
May 28. This morning I set out to see Dixon's
iron works, about one mile from my lodgings. I found
one of the foremen, who informed me I could not be
admitted without a line from the proprietor or his head
clerk, Mr. Campbell. This was not obtained without
difficulty, nor until I had explained that I was from
Boston, <fec., and given the assurance that I was in no
way connected with any establishment of the kind.
The foreman then went with me through the works,
explaining every process, giving me as much time as I
wanted, and appeared willing to entertain me longer
than I could afford to stop.
To-day the streets are every where in perfect con-
fusion. In all directions we see heaps of old furni-
ture piled up ; men, women, and ^children running
hither and thither, with old chairs, beds, pots, kettles,
crockery, provisions, some in their hands, some on
their heads, some lashed to their backs, and some in
handcarts. Women drawing heavy carts, laughing,
scolding, or crying ; groups of half-naked children ;
trucks, drays, cabs, and the ordinary business of the
dUy, rendered it necessary to have eyes before and be-
hind. I asked one of the police what all this meant.
" Oh," said he, " this is the 28th of May, when all the
moving is done for the year."
There is near the center of the city an open
square, larger, I should think, than Boston Common,
lying along the river Clyde. This square and the
fence were nearly covered with clothes drying. Upon
inquiry, I was told that the poor are so crowded to-
184 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
gether, that the authorities allow them to dry their
clothes here. Near this is another smaller square,
where the women have small tents, in which are ex-
posed for sale articles of almost every description, such
as old clothes, furniture, boots and shoes. Women
appear to do most of the retail business. You may
see them blacking old boots and shoes for sale, with
much more that we should think very unsuitable for
women to do.
Manchester, Friday, May 29, 1846. At three o'clock,
yesterday, I left Glasgow for Androssan, on the rail-
road. At that place, I took the steamer for Fleet-
wood, then the railroad for this place, arriving about
nine o'clock, P. M., at the Albion. I find here a num-
ber of our fellow-passengers in the Caledonia from
Boston, also other -Boston gentlemen, who recog-
nized me, whom I do not know ; also found one with
whom I boarded in London. This is very pleasant,
after passing two days without seeing one human being
I had ever seen before. Mr Thornton, a partner of
Deacon Kimball, pressed me hard to stop with him
while he-re ; but I thought it not best.
This place has about the same number of inhabit-
ants as Glasgow, say three hundred and fifty to four
hundred thousand, but it spreads over more terri-
tory. Here are great numbers of tall chimneys con-
nected with the manufactories, principally cotton. I
had been told so much about the city being filled with
smoke from these chimneys, that I am quite agreeably
disappointed. Many of the streets are wide and pleas-
ant, and some of the buildings are elegant. There is,
however, nothing worthy of particular notice, except
the Old Church, as it is called. It is more than four
VISIT TO EUROPE. 185
hundred years old, was formerly Roman Catholic, but
is now occupied by the Episcopal church. It has one
apartment more than four times as large as Mount
Vernon Church. Although the seats are not econom-
ically arranged, it will seat four thousand persons. In
the lower part, the seats are free for the poor of the
city. Besides this, there are a number of other large
rooms and chapels, some as large as an ordinary
church. There is chapel service here twice every
week day, in addition to the Sabbath, in the large
room. The floor of the church, and the large yard
that surrounds it, are all covered with gravestones,
which constitute the pavement.
To MRS. SAFFORD.
Sabbath Evening, May 31, 1846.
Can it be that this is the same month on which I
left home ? It seems almost impossible. Not because
I have been unhappy, but because I have seen, and
heard, and traveled so much.
This morning, just before going to church, one of
the waiters handed me a package containing the richest
treasure I have received since I left home. I had been
invited out to dine, but had declined, choosing to
spend the Sabbath in my own hired room alone, if I
could not have my fellow-traveler's company. On my
way to church, after dinner, I met Mr. M., of New
York, who exclaimed, " How is this, that you are
not at the Queen ? I saw Mr. Kirk's name there."
After a little explanation, I went with a quick step to
the Queen's Hotel, which is on another side of the
same square with the Albion, where I am. We had
a meeting like that of old friends who had been scp-
186 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
arated. He came in last evening, but entered the
depot at the opposite end from that in which I was
waiting for him. We proceeded to read our letters
together, and were very much affected by them, espe-
cially the expressions of unmingled kindness from
various members of the church. When we had fin-
ished, we knelt down together, and in turn, with flow-
ing tears, and I trust with grateful hearts, blessed the
Lord together, and poured out our fervent prayers for
you all.
I am glad you have been with my Bible class.
Give my love to them all. They arc very dear to me.
Tell th^ai we will meet around the mercy seat.
London, Wednesday, June 3. Left our kind friends
at Fitzroy Square, and took the cars at two o'clock
for Brighton, about fifty miles. This is a fash-
ionable watering place, and a very delightful spot.
Here we went on the steamer to Dieppe, eighty miles ;
then thirty-eight by post coach.
Riding upon the top, I had a fine view of the
scenery. That which arrested my attention partic-
ularly during this ride, was the rapidity with which
the horses were changed. I noticed in one instance
that from the time the coach wheels stopped until four
horses had been taken out, four more harnessed in, the
driver upon his box, and the coach in motion, was but
one minute and five seconds. I think it was some-
times done in less time than that.
Eighty miles more on the railroad, and we were in
Paris. Took lodgings at the Hotel Meurice, a house
mostly occupied by English and Americans. Here we
have a parlor, with a small bed in one corner, and a
VISIT TO EUROPE. 187
bed room, for which we pay seven francs a day, and
get our meals where we please. This is a very exten-
sive and well-regulated house, and every thing is ren-
dered very easy and pleasant.
To MRS. SAPFORD.
PARIS, Sabbath Morning, June 7, 1846.
MY DEAR WIPE : This is the sixth Sabbath I
have spent away from you and home. After our
morning devotions, Mr. Kirk conducted me to an
English church, and went himself to hear his favorite
preacher in French. Oh, how unlike Edinburgh, or
even Boston, is Paris ! the stores open, goods dis-
played, and every kind of business going forward ;
companies of soldiers marching through the streets
with martial music, &c. We were glad to get back
into our room, which is comparatively retired and still.
We took our church book, read a part of the
history of our church, articles of faith, and church
covenant ; then all the names of the members, nearly
every one of whom we were enabled to call to mind
distinctly. Some have removed to other churches ;
some gone to heaven ; and others, we believe, are fast
ripening for it. It is interesting to witness how the
heart of our pastor is bound up in his people how
lie sighs and cries for the spiritual well-being of those
committed to his charge. I never had such evidence
of his attachment to his people as I have since our
leaving home.
After some conversation upon the way in which the
Lord lias led this church, and some of its members,
in particular, we kneeled down together, and in turn
committed them all, and our own souls, to Him who
188 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
loves his church and gave himself for it. I believe
the Lord was present, and taught us how to pray.
How delightful, when far. away from home, and friends,
and accustomed religious privileges, to find a present
Saviour !
PARIS, June 13, 1846.
I think you may by this time be tired of reading
about palaces, abbeys, museums, monuments, shady
walks, &c. ; so I will tell you a little about myself and
suite. On one side of my room is the bed room of my
chaplain, the Rev. Mr. Kirk. As you have some ac-
quaintance with him, I will only say respecting him
that his health appears very good, that he is faithful,
kind, and attentive as usual. On the other side is the
bed room of my physician, Dr. W., of whom I must
say, he is the most agreeable, and I think the most
skillful, physician I have ever employed. I will give
you one instance as a specimen of his practice. Last
night we came home very tired with the labors of the
day. Soon after we were seated at the center table,
he placed before us a basket containing more than four
quarts of large pills, with directions that we should
take as many as we could ; and to make them the
more palatable, he gave us a quantity of pulverized
sugar to take them in. These pills were of the form,
color, and flavor of strawberries, and I should think
we took nearly a quart apiece of them. Strawberries
here are very large and abundant, and of excellent
flavor. When eating them, we often wished we had
some help from Boston.
Sabbath Evening. The weather has been very
warm to-day. In the afternoon heard a sermon in
VISIT TO EUROPE. 189
English. The text was very good. Spent most of the
day in my room. Read the Epistles of Peter and John.
If it were not for the Bible, I should hardly know how
to get along in this land of a strange tongue. It is
melancholy to see the multitudes in this city that neg-
lect this blessed day altogether, continuing their busi-
ness as on other days, or devoting it to amusements.
This evening, in the garden of the Tuileries, directly
opposite our house, there are probably tens of thou-
sands of people, of all ages and conditions, walking
and sitting about, some playing ball, some jumping
rope, with music from the royal band, and a display
of the waterworks ; giving it more the appearance of
our national celebration of the 4th of July than of
the Sabbath. How I long for a -quiet Boston Sabbath
in Mount Vernon Church, and No. 3 Beacon Street.
It is now nine o'clock. I think of you as in the
midst of your afternoon service. I have thought much
of you and of our dear church to-day. If I ever get
there again, I shall be prepared to prize it more highly
than ever. As soon as we get our letters, which we
hope to do on Wednesday next, without fail, we design
to prosecute our journey as fast as we can with com-
fort and safety.
June 21. Went yesterday, in company with the
Rev. Mr. Boucher, and lady, to Fontaineblcau, about
forty miles from Paris. There is in this place a small
Protestant chapel, built by a converted Frenchman in
his garden, at his own expense, where he sustains wor-
ship every Sabbath. When lie can not procure a
minister, he reads a sermon himself; lie also reads to
and converses with his neighbors at other times, as he
190 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
can get opportunity. Mr. Kirk preached in this chapel,
in English, in the morning, and Mr. Boucher in the
afternoon, in French, to a house nearly full, although
the weather was excessively hot. Mr. Boucher is an
old friend of Mr. Kirk, and I found it very pleasant to
have for a time such a companion as Mrs. Boucher, she
being almost the only lady I have been able to speak
with since leaving London.
Took a steamer, and went down to Paris, on
the River Seine, enjoying a view of the scenery on its
banks, some of which is very pleasant. There were
numerous rafts of wood and timber floating down,
and a large number of flat-boats, sometimes eight or
ten together, one after another, drawn by from six to
fourteen horses. Arriving near the city, we saw hun-
dreds of people bathing in the river.
23d. Left Paris at seven o'clock in the cars for
Brussels, a distance of two hundred miles. This
being a new road, and the second day of its being
open for travel, the conductors were awkward, made
long stops, and appeared in a good deal of confusion,
so that we did not arrive in Brussels until eight and a
half o'clock. When we crossed the line into Belgium,
we were detained more than an hour to have all our
baggage taken from the cars, carried into an office, and
the contents examined. This I understand is to be
done every time we pass from one country or kingdom
to anather. The weather grew cool through the day,
and before morning I found it necessary to put on my
cloak, and was cold with that.
2,4th. After breakfast, in company with two Eng-
VISIT TO EUROPE. 191
lishmen who had been fellow-passengers from Boston,
took a carriage to Waterloo, to see that famous battle
ground, and monuments. This being twelve miles
distant, it occupied the whole day. Mr. Kirk, having
seen it, and wishing to make some calls in the city, did
not accompany us.
25th. Visited the cathedral, senate, and chamber
of deputies, lace manufactory, &c. Brussels is a very
neat and pleasant city, with about one hundred thou-
sand inhabitants. Many English families reside here,
and most of the company at the hotels appear to be of
that nation. At four, P. M., left in the cars for Ant-
werp, about twenty miles distant. This city is situated
on the River Scheldt, which is navigable for ships of
the largest class. Here we saw large ships from Amer-
ica, from England, and various parts of the world,
besides a very great number of their own Dutch-built
vessels, most of which were small, with but one mast.
The city is well fortified, with a strong citadel at one
end, and two fortresses on the opposite side of the
river. The streets are generally wide, and as clean as
any I have ever seen ; the houses not extravagant, but
in good taste. We visited the cathedral, citadel,
wharves, and docks ; also a collection of ancient paint-
ings, by some of the best masters. Antwerp has eighty
thousand inhabitants.
Friday, June 2>. Left at six o'clock, A. M., in
the cars for Cologne, a distance of one hundred and
thirty-four miles, passing Lorraine, Liege, Aix-la-Cha-
pelle, and numerous smaller towns, and arrived at
Cologne at four and a half o'clock. This is also a
walled city, of nearly the size of Antwerp, but tho
192 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOED.
streets are not so wide, nor the buildings nearly as
pleasant. It is situated on the river Rhine, which is
truly a noble river, larger than the Thames. We vis-
ited the immense cathedral, which was commenced
nearly six hundred years ago, and is still in progress,
but will not probably be finished for centuries to come.
It is built of stone, without any wood, inside or out.
The amount of delicate carved work upon it is almost
incalculable. The stones which were first laid are
already crumbling to pieces. It has two towers, which
are to be each five hundred feet high. There is one
bridge across the river, composed of a line of boats.
When a vessel is to pass, two or more of the boats are
disconnected, and allowed to fall down stream ; after-
wards, they are brought back again to their place.
We crossed this bridge, and took lodgings at a very
pleasant hotel on the bank of the river opposite the
city. There are twenty-four distilleries for Cologne
water in this city.
27th. At seven o'clock, A. M., took the cars to Bonn,
about nineteen miles from Cologne, and at that place a
steamboat for Mannheim, a distance of one hundred
and seventy miles, passing by Coblentz, Bingen, May-
ence, Worms, where Luther met the Diet, and more
than one hundred smaller towns and villages. We
stopped an hour or two at Mayence, a pleasant city of
about thirty-six thousand inhabitants. Many of the
streets are crooked and narrow, but they are very
clean, and the buildings generally are beautiful. Na-
poleon had a palace here ; it was one of his favorite
cities. We regretted not seeing Worms, as we passed
it in the night, when we were asleep.
VISIT TO EUROPE. 193
We entered tlie Rhine with some misgiving as to
its claims to its great popularity. Our own Hudson
River was continually in remembrance when the glo-
ries of the Rhine were lauded. The day proved ex-
actly what we could desire, and greatly did we enjoy
it. The scenery excels the Hudson in the great
length of its interesting portion about ninety miles,
from Bonn to Bingen. This part every traveler must
be sure to take by steamboat, even after railroads shall
have been constructed between these points. The de-
scent is said to be too rapid to allow a full enjoyment
of the scenery.
Mannheim is in some respects more beautiful than
any city we have seen. It is surrounded by a dense
forest, so that in approaching it nothing can be seen
except the cathedral, the castle, and a few of the high-
est public buildings. In this forest are laid out beauti-
ful circular walks. It abounds with birds, whose
singing contributes much to the pleasure of the walk.
The streets of the city are wide, and arranged with
perfect regularity. The buildings are rather remark-
able, some of them being very old. On the chimney
of one we saw a stork's nest as large as a two-bushel
basket, and three or four of these ugly birds upon it.
In the morning we attended a Lutheran church.
After the sermon the congregation was dismissed, and
the Lord's supper administered to about twenty men
and one hundred and twenty women, in a manner dif-
ferent from any that I had ever witnessed. At each
end of the altar stood a minister ; one with the bread,
the other witli the wine. The communicants came
two and two to him who held the bread, first the men
and then the women. They bowed to the altar, or tho
17
194 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
minister, who broke off a small piece of bread and
gave to each of them, saying some words. They ate
it, then bowed again, and passed around the back of
the altar to the other end, and took the wine in like
manner. The females generally left their bonnets in
the pews. Some of the latter courtesied with great
ceremony and display. I could not understand a
word, and of course was not much edified.
There is in this place a very large palace, quite as
large as the one at Versailles, near Paris, one wing of
which has never been finished. Large bushes have
grown upon the walls.
Monday Morning, June 29. Left Mannheim for
Basle in the cars ; traveled all day with two clergymen
from England very intelligent and gentlemanly men.
We dined at Strasburg, in France, where our trunks
were again examined. After dinner went into the
famous cathedral of this place, which is very large and
beautiful, and the highest in Europe. After this we
had a pleasant ride, in view of the distant highlands
of Switzerland, and arrived at Basle about nine o'clock
in the evening.
Rose at five o'clock, and were told that a
diligence had just left for Geneva, but that another
would leave at nine o'clock. Went to the office, and
found that the seats were all taken, but that a fourth
would start at half past two o'clock, P. M. This was
a disappointment, having directed our letters to be
forwarded to us at Geneva. We engaged seats in the
last named ; then visited an old cathedral, where we
heard a sermon, and witnessed a wedding and a
christening. At half past two o'clock we took our
VISIT TO EUROPE. 195
seats in the diligence for Geneva, and soon found our-
selves winding our way up the far-famed hills and
mountains of Switzerland, by the side of an ever rest-
less, murmuring mountain stream, which diminished
in size as we ascended.
We crossed the little tributaries that came leaping
down from the rocks on either side, and plunging into
its bosom. This reminded me of the Notch of the
White Mountains. In one place the road was cut
through a ledge, so that we passed under an arch of
solid rock. About nine o'clock in the evening we
reached Delsperg, a walled town on the mountains,
where we took tea ; then resumed our seats in the dil-
igence. The weather was dark and rainy, and not
being able to see much, we passed most of the night
in sleep. Early in the morning we arrived at Berne,
an old town with walls and watch towers, but
stopped only long enough to have our luggage changed
from one diligence to another. We rode on through
numerous towns and villages without any opportunity
for breakfast or dinner until we arrived at Lausanne,
the former residence of Madame Feller. Saw her
brother-in-law, and took a hasty dinner about three
o'clock, at the hotel kept by her son-in-law, but did
not see him. We arrived at Geneva about nine o'clock
in the evening.
To MRS. SAFFORD.
GENEVA, July 3, 1846.
We arrived here last evening at nine o'clock, after
the post office was closed. We requested the landlord
to inquire for us in the morning. Early in the morn-
ing the servant came to our door with your letters by
196 MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
the Great Britain. One who has not been from home,
and from those most dear on earth, can not realize
with what eagerness, and almost breathless, but not
tearless silence, the seals were broken, and the contents
devoured. The last I heard from you, you were ill,
in consequence of which I had indulged in unwarrant-
able forebodings and painful misgivings ; but now
come the joyful tidings that the Lord has had mercy
on you, and not on you only, but also upon me, " lest
I should have sorrow upon sorrow." This is indeed
like " cold water to a thirsty soul." Oh that we may
learn to trust the Lord at all times, and pour out our
hearts before him. " God is a refuge for us."
After reading our letters, uniting in thanksgiving
and prayer, and taking breakfast, we went upon the
lofty roof of our hotel, where we had a full view of
the scenery on every side, which is beautiful beyond
description. In front is the lake ; in the distance be-
yond are seen, with great distinctness, many of the
highest peaks of the Alps, all covered with snow, as
white as if just fallen from the clouds, which was
probably the case, while it was raining in the valleys
below. On the opposite side are the Jura Mountains,
forming nearly another half circle ; on these, also,
some snow remains ; the effect of the whole is that of
a beautiful panorama.
Toward night we rode out to Colonel Tron chin's
country residence. From a tower in his grounds we
had a delightful view of Mont Blanc, and many other
high peaks of the Alps. Long after the sun had passed
from view, we could see his rays lingering upon these.
Mont Blanc detained them longest. At length from
perfect white it became tinged with pink, as it received
VISIT TO EUROPE. 197
trie borrowed rays from the clouds above it. From
a bright pink it became darker and darker, until it
faded away from our view. The whole scene was
splendid, and the close somber and impressive. I
could not but feel and say, " Our God is a great God,
above all gods."
I have passed through the market. The whole of
the business is done by women, who bring in the pro-
visions either upon their heads or in carts or wagons
drawn by mules or donkeys. Oxen all draw by yokes
made fast to their horns. The washing here, as in
many other cities in Europe, is done in floating houses
constructed for that purpose to accommodate hundreds
at a time, with sloping boards, running down to the
water, upon which they rub their clothes.
Sabbath, July 5. In company with Mr. and Mrs.
A., from Boston, I attended service in the cathedral
where Calvin used to preach. But few persons were
present. We heard an aged, tall, spare man preach,
who I thought must have resembled Calvin in appear-
ance. He was animated in delivery, but I could not
understand what he said. After the close of this service
we attended another in an English Episcopal church.
I kept my room the remainder of the day. I have been
reading many of the Psalms of David. They never
appeared so delightful to me before. What a rich
experience his was, and how full and abundant the
promises of God !
We have decided to leave Geneva to-morrow morn-
ing for a tour of a week among the Alps. On our
return we hope to find more letters from home. Tell
P. I was much pleased with his letter. lie says ho
IT'
198 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
finds he has some little bad habits which he is trying
to correct, but finds it hard work. Tell him it is the
little things that make up the character; and it is
worth working hard to have the character right.
Tuesday, July 7, 1846. At seven o'clock set out
for a tour among the Alps, in company with Mr. Guers.
In little more than an hour we entered Sardinia, one
of the kingdoms of Italy, where our baggage was very
closely examined. It is governed by a very liberal
monarch, who is himself governed by a very illiberal
system. The road was literally lined with beggars.
Sometimes eight or ten would be on both sides of the
diligence at a time, holding out their hats or hands,
saying, as I was told, (for I could not understand,)
" Have mercy on a poor sick man, for God's sake ; " or,
" Pity a poor lame or blind man, for the Virgin Mary's
sake." The degradation of women, as far as I have
gone in Italy, is painful to behold. A large portion of
the out-of-door work is done by them. I have seen
twelve of them reaping in one field, with about half
that number of men ; also sharpening their scythes,
and mowing. Much of the hay is carried into the
barn on their heads. They tie up large bundles,
weighing, I should judge, one hundred pounds, then
put their heads down by the side of them, and, by the
help of another person, raise them, and walk off to
the barn. They are generally short, and evidently not
injured by lacing. Many of them have a disease called
the goitre, which shows itself by bunches on the neck
half as large as the head.
Pears, apples, and cherries appear to be abundant.
The fruit trees grow very high, and sometimes very
VISIT TO EUROPE. 199
large more in form like our forest trees. Passing
through Clusse, a village recently destroyed by fire, and
partly rebuilt, we enter the beautiful scenery of the
Alps. Following up the valley of the river Arve,
which empties into the Rhone just below Geneva, for
some distance it appears as if the mountains had been
separated, like the Blue Ridge in Virginia, and thrown
apart, thus making a passage for the river, and stand-
ing perpendicular on either side. In other places the
mountains are more distant. Leaving a beautiful fer-
tile valley between, we passed another village called
Sallenche, still more recently burned down by light-
ning. Here we left the diligence for a smaller car-
riage, the name of which I did not learn, adapted to
the rougher roads of the higher regions. In this we
went to the Falls of Bon Nant, where are the famous
baths of St. Gervais ; also hot sulphur springs. This
is quite a resort for invalids and travelers generally.
The entrance is so narrow and crooked, that when at
the baths you appear to be entirely surrounded by
high mountains, so that it would seem impossible to
get out.
After dinner, and looking at the falls, springs, and
scenery, we engaged a man to carry our luggage round
to Mont Joli Hotel, and we took a zigzag path up the
side of the mountain, which was very steep. Here we
passed the night, and early next morning, being joined
by Mr. Do Watteville, the president of the Geneva
Evangelical Society, with three mules and a guide we set
out for Mont Bellevue, where we arrived in about five
hours. Here we were in full view of Mont Blanc, a deep
ravine being between it and us, the atmosphere very
clear, and the snow so white that the mountain seemed
200 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
almost within reach. Our fellow-travelers then re-
turned to the Mont Joli Hotel, and we took a zigzag
path down a steep side of the mountain too steep to
ride to Chamouni, a village in the plain of the Arve.
9/A. We set out with two mules, two guides, and
pike poles, or large canes, about six feet long, with a
sharp iron point in one end. In about two hours,
riding up a steep winding road, we readied Montan-
vert. Here, leaving our mules and taking our feet, we
hoped, with the aid of our pikes, to reach, if possible,
a place called the " Garden." This is a verdant spot
in the midst of an immense glacier, or sea of ice,
surrounded by the most beautiful of the Alps the
needles, with their thousand sharp peaks, of different
higlits, pointing up to their Maker.
The entrance to the Garden is crooked, so that,
when there, one appears to be entirely shut in by high
and beautiful mountains. The glacier which we passed
over was probably nearly ten miles long, and on an
average of perhaps one thousand feet broad, and from
three to five hundred feet deep, all of solid ice. From
the lower end of this, or near it, issues the River
Arveiron, connecting with the Arve, which has its rise
at a glacier a little above this. These rivers probably
extend the whole length of the glacier at the bottom,
as in the crevices and holes in the ice, the water pro-
duced by thawing on the top is constantly running
down.
Leaving Le Montanvert, a hotel erected for a rest-
ing place for travelers. our guides took some cold
meat, bread, and cheese in their knapsacks, urging us
to take some brandy to put in our ice water on our
VISIT TO EUROPE. 201
journey, which of course we declined for ourselves,
allowing them to take what they chose. We first
passed through a beautiful flowery walk a short dis-
tance, then began to descend to the glacier over an
almost perpendicular ledge, where we had to step with
great care upon little projections of the rock of not
more than two or three inches' breadth, and those
frequently far apart. We all got down safely, and
after some difficulty mounted upon the glacier, the
surface of which is very rough, and all the way as-
cending. It abounds with deep crevices or fissures,
requiring great care in stepping or jumping across
them. If one should make a misstep here, he might
be precipitated a hundred feet, and find himself wedged
in between two vast bodies of ice ; or perhaps he might
go through, into the river below. Here we found our
pikestaffs a great safeguard. In some places, for a
considerable distance, where the fall was greater, the
ice had broken up and come down in avalanches, in
such wild confusion that it was as impossible to pass it
as to walk upon the needles of the Alps. In such
places we got along upon the sides of the mountain
ledges as best we could. All along on the glacier are
immense masses of stone, thrown sometimes into the
middle of it by the avalanches of snow and ice which
are coming down from the mountains on both sides.
I noticed one stone of, I should think, twenty or thirty
feet in diameter. We were told by the guides that
most persons who set out on this journey stop at the
glacier near the hotel where wo left our mules, and
that of those who start for the Garden, a majority turn
back before they reacli it. I should remark that,
although I have spoken of this as one glacier, it being
202 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
all connected, yet it is called by different names at
different points.
This was a hard four hours' walk. Probably two
thirds or more of it was upon ice or snow. Where
there was snow, as it was rather steep, and the top
softened by the sun, it was even more tiresome walking
than on the ice. This excursion may be thought a
very dangerous one, but I do not regard it so to one
who is careful and has a steady head.
In returning, it was descending most of the way,
and we were but three hours in going to the place
where we left our mules. "We mounted them, and in
a little more than two hours were at our lodgings in
Chamouni before sundown, highly gratified with what
we had seen, but tired enough to keep quiet. I find
my description so meager as not to deserve the name.
I can only say, with regard to what we have seen yes-
terday and to-day, in the language of my friend,
" Wonderful, more wonderful, most wonderful ! "
Friday, July 10. At five o'clock in the morning we
mounted our mules, with our luggage strapped on
behind, and a guide on foot to take our mules back,
and set out for Martigny, walking the mules all the
way for eight hours and a half. Our road or rather
path, for it was not passable for carriages of any kind
was all the way winding among mountains the most
wild and rugged imaginable ; some covered with snow,
and the ravines with glaciers ; some with sharp rocks
like needles, and some with forests, making a constant
variety, as one after another opened to our view. We
followed up a ravine from the river Arve until the
last rill that ran into it terminated. Then, as we began
VISIT TO EUROPE. 203
to descend, a little rivulet came down from one of the
mountains, and ran toward the Rhone. This was in-
creased by tributary streams from the right and left
continually, until it became a powerful river, emptying
into the Rhone at Martigny.
Our path was not less romantic than the scenery
around sometimes along the rapidly descending
stream, which was constantly leaping down among the
rocks in wild confusion ; sometimes winding up the
side of a mountain ; sometimes cut through a perpen-
dicular ledge, with solid rock entirely overhanging the
path ; and in one case piercing the solid rock about
one hundred feet, so that we could ride through on our
mules. About three miles of the last of our ride were
down a steep hill, which looked dangerous ; but our
mules were sure-footed, and by a kind Providence we
got down without injury.
There are along the path a number of poor Swiss
villages, with patches of land cultivated whenever a
little soil can be found. These villagers live in mis-
erable little log cabins, usually without any glass win-
dows, and frequently occupied partly by themselves
and partly by their cows. At half past one o'clock we
arrived at Martigny, in the valley of the Rhone. This
river has just overflowed its banks, flooding many fields
of grain and grass, and doing a large amount of dam-
age. Just opposite this place is where Napoleon
crossed the Alps with his army.
Geneva, July 11. This morning at eight o'clock
left Martigny in a small carriage, in which we rode
sideways, very common in this country, called c7/ar,
drawn by one horse, down the valley of the Rhone to
204 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPFORD.
Villeneuve, on the Lake of Geneva, a distance of
twenty-four miles ; then we took the steamer down tho
Lake of Geneva. This lake is a beautiful sheet of pure,
transparent water, about sixty miles long, and nine
wide in the middle, very narrow at the ends, and quite
circular, being nearly of the form of the new moon.
Toward the upper end of the lake, on the south side,
were some high mountains ; with this exception, the
land rises gradually, is very fertile, and settled with
numerous towns and villages, and many very beautiful
country residences and splendid mansions.
July 17. I went with Miss Gaussen to a charity
school of little girls, in which she is interested, and
heard Mr. Kirk address the children in French.
Passed through the different markets. The
amount of meats was very small in proportion to the
vegetables. Every thing, except meat and grain, is
sold in the open public streets ; and in some of those I
verily believe there were more than ten thousand
women at one time, filling the street more than a
quarter of a mile, so that it was difficult to pass, and
scarcely a man to be seen except the police.
Mr. Bargnani has arrived, and is meeting
Mr. Kirk and others in consultation respecting the
interests of the Christian Alliance and Italy. I can
not but hope and believe that our long stay here will
result in good to each. We have decided to leave
Geneva on the 21st, and I have taken our seats to-day
in the diligence. Although this is a delightful place,
it is more delightful to set my face toward home.
Sabbath, July 19. On our way to church, passed
VISIT TO EUROPE. 205
hundreds of peasants, male and female, who had come
into the city to find employment, the men with a
scythe on their shoulders, and the women with an in-
strument for reaping. On the morning of each Sab-
bath, before the people of the city have arisen, com-
panies of the peasantry may be heard marching
through the streets, with implements of husbandry,
singing as they go. First the men sing a tune, and
then the women respond. The time is perfect, and
the tune flowing and easy. The words I can not un-
derstand. Their voices are very clear and sweet, and
the effect would be delightful when all else is still, but
for the fact that it is the Lord's day, and they are seek-
ing employment for the coming week. I returned to
my room, and when seated, my thoughts reverted to
the many quiet Sabbaths I had passed in Boston. For
although there are many profanations of the Sabbath
there, still, in comparison with any place I have seen
on the continent of Europe, it is kept externally as
sacred.
20th. Mr. Bargnani took breakfast with us, and
spent most of the forenoon in conversation upon the
condition and prospects of Italy. Being out of funds,
I furnished him with two hundred dollars. How mel-
ancholy, that a people living in a climate the most
salubrious, and on a soil the most productive, should
be among the most poor, degraded, and miserable of
civilized nations !
21st. After spending a sleepless night, although
not sensibly ill, started in the diligence for Paris.
Following up the lake to Nyon, then turning at a right
angle, we commenced ascending the range of the Jura
18
206 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
Mountains. The road being steep and winding, the
driver opened the door, and gave all an opportunity
to walk. Nearly all, and among the number two
ladies, embraced it. A foot path ran straight up the
mountain, shortening the distance, but of course being
more steep. When we came to the first crossing of
the road, I was so much exhausted that I waited for
the diligence to come along, and resumed my seat,
although the ladies walked on. About ten o'clock we
reached a town in the mountains where we took break-
fast. I did not think myself ill, but was still surprised
at my weakness. Soon after starting I was seized with
violent pain, indicating the approach of dysentery,
which increased through the day. About nine o'clock
in the evening, we came to a village, where we were to
sup. I told Mr. Kirk if he would send me a cup of
tea, I would lie down upon the cushion. "While he
was gone I had a very distressing turn, nearly fainting,
which led me to doubt the propriety of proceeding
further ; but as this was an inconvenient place, and
being privileged with the coupe entirely to ourselves,
after making the best provision we could for my com-
fort, we decided to proceed. Although my bodily suf-
ferings were considerable, and, at times, almost insup-
portable, I was almost entirely spared that anxious
foreboding which so often adds mental misery and
anguish to bodily pain ; having endeavored to profit
by that delightful text, " Be careful for nothing."
At -eight o'clock we arrived at Dijon, a large town
of thirty thousand inhabitants. Here Mr. Kirk sent
for a physician, who said I must not proceed further.
He took us to a nice hotel, where we found a large
room, a quiet place, and the people all kindness. He
VISIT TO EUROPE. 207
also provided an excellent old nurse, whose great kind-
ness and care I can not soon forget. My physician
proved to be very skillful, and soon relieved me en-
tirely. He seemed very much pleased when he could
get some English words to speak with me. Having a
little book of translations, after he had done what he
could at that time, he took it to the window, and
seemed for some time to be studying it. At length
he returned, smiling, and said, " Quiet, diet, friend-
ship," then shook hands very affectionately, and left
me. Being so much relieved, I slept most of the next
day, and the day following took some gentle medicine*
When my doctor came that night, he said I might
start in the diligence the next afternoon, at five o'clock.
He appeared to write down all the directions, ar-
ranging my drinks, &c., so that I took something once
in an hour, my good nurse keeping them and my watch
before her all the time, and so quiet that I should not
have known she was in the room. The doctor visited
me four times, and charged but fifteen francs, or less
than three dollars. The nurse asked six francs ; but
learning that she was poor, and had a sick husband,
whom she would occasionally run home to see, I gave
her twenty.
During this short illness I received so much sym-
pathy and kindness from the French, not only from
my physician and nurse, but from the people of the
hotel and my fellow-travelers in the diligence, that
I wish ever to remember it with gratitude to them and
to Him who thus inclined them. I shall long remem-
ber a French lady who traveled with us from Geneva,
and had some knowledge of the English language,
who, when I got out of the diligence, came to me, and,
208 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
after hesitating a little, evidently to make out the sen-
tence, said, " Be you vary sick ? " It was uttered
with an expression of countenance and tone of voice
so expressive of sympathy and kindness, that I could
not say, " Yes," but smiled, and said, " Not very."
She said, in the same sweet tone and expression, " Are
you leetel better ? " I said, " Owt, madame" At
five o'clock, we started again for Paris, having the
coupe again to ourselves. Although very weak when
I started, I rode three days and nights, making very
short stops.
Among the many mercies of the last week, not the
least has been that of having my pastor with me.
"Without him I know not what I should have done.
Most sincerely would I thank my heavenly Father for
the discipline of the past week. I do not pray for
afflictions, but I do pray for sanctification ; and if this
work can not go on in this treacherous heart without,
then let afflictions come, in whatever garb he may
clothe them.
London, July 31. After breakfast, went out and
engaged our passage home on the 4th of September
next. This leads me to feel that the time is coming
when, with the good hand of our God upon us, we
shall see our beloved country, and more beloved
friends again.
Friday. A return of former illness, which kept me
in bed all day, abstaining from food, remembering the
direction of my old French physician, " Quiet, diet."
Monday and Tuesday. Attended meetings of the
committee, which were increasingly interesting, espe'
VISIT TO EUROPE. 209
cially in the spirit of prayer and brotherly love that
prevailed. Subjects were discussed with spirit and
freedom, and in two cases, when the members ap-
peared to be nearly divided, finding discussion did not
bring them together, prayer was proposed ; after which
the vote was taken, and found to be unanimous.
Upon which an old gentleman said, " Let us sing the
doxology, ' Praise God, from whom all blessings flow.' "
I never saw such an effect produced by the singing of
a verse before. Many of the committee were in tears.
In the other case, when the vote was taken after
prayer, there were only five hands up in the negative,
although there were probably more than four hundred
present.
Wednesday, August 19. This is the first day of the
General Conference a day which I hope never to
forget. An assembly of eight or ten hundred Chris-
tian brethren, probably nine tenths of whom were
ministers of the gospel, from more than twenty differ-
ent denominations of Christians in England, Wales,
Scotland, Ireland, America, France, Germany, Swit-
zerland, and different missionary stations, for the pur-
pose of laying aside their sectarian prejudices, and
uniting together for the promotion of Christian love
and union, is such a sight as was never seen in this
fallen world before. Praying and singing might be
heard in different languages, in the general meeting or
in the committee rooms. Never did I hear such pray-
ing before old, gray-headed ministers, with tears in
their eyes, confessing their uncharitablcness, the un-
kind and censorious feelings they had indulged, and
words they had uttered ; their prayers for pardon, and
18*
210 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
that they might all be filled with love to each other
and to their common Head, and that they might all be
one ! The prayers of Christians in different parts of
the world, I do believe, have been heard for this con-
ference.
20tk. The meetings of the conference to-day have
been full of interest, and a spirit of kindness and love.
In the morning, after spending an hour in devotional
exercises, the first two resolutions were passed unani-
mously, after a free discussion, and many interesting
* addresses, which occupied more than three hours. In
the evening, the third and important resolution to
form the Evangelical Alliance was discussed more
than two hours. All spoke in favor of the Alliance.
But many proposed amendments to the resolution, and
advocated them with tenacity. All amendments, how-
ever, were rejected, except the striking out of " the"
before "church." Before taking the final vote, the
chairman requested all to stand up a few moments in
silence, saying that he doubted not all would find
their hearts ascending in prayer that God would decide
this important question. After a short time, he broke
the silence by saying, " All who are in favor of pass-
ing this resolution will hold up their hands." The
vote was unanimous. An old gentleman said aloud,
" Thanks to God that I have lived to see this day."
Another said, " Sing * Praise God, from whom all bless-
ings flow.' ' All joined in singing that delightful dox-
ology with so much heart and earnestness as to make
the hall tremble. In less than a moment the whole
audience were shaking hands with each other with a
cordiality and earnestness I have seldom, if ever, wit-
VISIT TO EUROPE. 211
nessed. I was between a clergyman of the Established
church and a dissenting minister, both of whom seized
my hands and shook them, saying, " I can reach across
the Atlantic to take a Christian brother's hand."
Sabbath, 23d. Rev. Baptist Noel gave yesterday an
invitation to the Alliance to partake of the sacrament
at his church to-day. It was an interesting sight
the large collection of ministers and laymen, of dif-
ferent denominations, kneeling around the altar, par-
taking of the emblems of the body and blood of Christ
from the hands of an Episcopalian.
The meetings of the Alliance were very in-
teresting all day. In the evening, the vote in favor of
the doctrinal basis of nine articles was unanimous,
with but one dissenting voice ; whereupon they united
in singing the Coronation Hymn, " All hail the power
of Jesus' name." This morning the meeting was in
Exeter Hall, which was filled to overflowing, not only
the seats, but every inch upon which a man could
stand. After many interesting addresses, following
that of Sir Culling E. Smith, Rev. William Jay, D. D.,
was announced. Loud and long expressions of ap-
plause filled the hall. The old gentleman, now
seventy-seven years of age, was so much affected in
view of such an assembly, and the occasion, as to be
entirely deprived of the power of utterance. He sat
in his chair and wept like a child, which was probably
the most eloquent speech he could have made. Tins
was the most interesting meeting I ever attended.
There were some of the most learned and pious men
of the age, clergymen, statesmen, private citizens, of
various denominations, acknowledging their past un-
212 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
charitableness and unkindness ; some who had been
engaged in controversy, confessing the bitterness with
which they had conducted it ; all pledging themselves
that, while they would feel at liberty still to discuss
and defend what they believed to be truth, they would
put away all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and
clamor, and evil speaking, with all malice, and be
kind, tender-hearted, forbearing one with another in
love, forgiving one another, even as God, for Christ's
sake, had forgiven them. I sat upon a plank five
hours, without scarcely thinking of myself. And al-
though many stood during the services, scarcely an
individual went out or appeared tired.
There are now present twelve hundred and fifty
members of the Alliance, most of whom are ministers
of the gospel. Of this number, two hundred and fifty
are clergymen of the Church of England, many of
whom appear to be among the choicest spirits in the
Alliance. Many of the speakers spoke as if inspired
from on high ; Dr. James, especially, appeared to be
carried, and his audience with him, up to that great
meeting of the Christian Evangelical Alliance from
every nation and denomination around the throne
of God.
Dublin, Ireland, August 29. Arrived here this
morning. A gentleman, finding that I was from
America, went with me through the college, where are
seven hundred students ; and, I should think, accom-
modations for three times that number. I have walked
or rode nearly all day, and seen most of the principal
streets and public buildings. Although these are
handsome, and many of them elegant, indicating
VISIT TO EUROPE. 213
wealth, prosperity, and happiness, the back streets and
alleys, with the buildings on them, and their inhabit-
ants, furnish painful evidence of extreme degradation,
poverty, and suffering. Beggars are very numerous,
appearing in the most dirty, ragged, pitiable condition
conceivable. Still, the gentry compare favorably with
those of other cities in Europe whom I have seen. I
have been treated with more attention and respect by
entire strangers here than in any other city, and I
must say, I have seen a larger proportion of good
looking, and even handsome, ladies than in any
other city.
Sunday, August 30. I went out in pursuit of a
meeting, but finding the Protestant churches do not
open until twelve o'clock, entered a large Catholic
church just as they were engaged in saying high mass.
In the center of the house, and in front of the altar,
were a few people of respectable appearance seated,
with kneeling benches before them, separated from the
rest of the audience by a railing. On either side were
crowds of the poor, some dressed decently, others very
ragged and dirty : these were kneeling upon a stone
floor, with their lips constantly in motion, with strings
of beads in their hands, occasionally moving a bead
from the right hand to the left, while the priests, in
their gorgeous attire, were busily engaged sprinkling
the holy water, or burning incense, or chanting some-
thing I did not understand ; taking off and putting on
their caps ; kneeling around the altar, sometimes in
one place and sometimes in another, with a sanctimo-
nious air. The scene made my heart sicken, perhaps
the more so as I had just been reading a description
214 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
of Luther's first visit to Rome, when he became so
disgusted with the wickedness of the priests, and the
heartlessness of their worship.
In the afternoon I heard a sermon, in a Protestant
church, from the text, " He doeth all things well."
The preacher appeared to have more orthodoxy than
unction.
2. t Visited the Giant's Causeway ; also went
into a number of the most miserable-looking huts I
could find in the outskirts of the town. They are
generally very filthy, and some of the clothing, of both
sexes, so ragged as to afford but a partial covering.
When asked how they were situated, and if they got a
comfortable living, they would say, " Yes, I thank
God." But when spoken to about making provision
for the soul, they excuse themselves by saying, " We
have as much as we can do to get along and provide
for ourselves and children, and have no clothes to go
to church." Upon being reminded of the danger of
making excuses now, which will not justify them be-
fore God at the judgment, they appeared solemn and
willing to hear. In one case, quite a congregation of
men, women, and children collected about the door.
In some cases I gave a trifle to the aged and infirm.
I went through the workhouse here, which is well
managed, the children being instructed in all the com-
mon branches. When the keeper had gone around
and shown me their beds, which are of straw, laid upon
the floor, their school rooms, mode of cooking, &c., he
said, " I suppose you have nothing of this kind in your
country ! "
Belfast, September 2. After visiting the Botanic
VISIT TO EUROPE. 215
Garden, spent two hours in the poorhouse, where are
about a thousand inmates. This poorhouse system,
established by Parliament about five years ago, I think
must be a great blessing to the nation, especially to
the children, who, instead of living in the streets, in
ignorance, filth, and vice, are now not only instructed,
but also form habits of cleanliness and industry.
Adults generally dislike it, and many will not enter
because they are obliged to keep themselves clean, and
are deprived of their beloved whiskey and more be-
loved tobacco ; for almost all the poorer part use their
stub pipes, and, having limited mental resources, are
miserable when deprived of them. The master of
the house gave me all the information I wanted, and
some more. Leaving this institution, I visited a large
linen manufactory, owned by Mr. M., a very gentle-
manly man, as, indeed, most of the intelligent Irish-
men are. Here are eight hundred persons employed,
the most of whom are girls. I was kindly accompa-
nied through all the apartments, and shown the whole
process through which the flax passes, from its crude
state to the finest fabric. At five o'clock I went on
board the Sea King, for Liverpool.
3d. I arrived at Liverpool at half past six o'clock,
after a very smooth passage and good night's sleep.
Am occupying a bed room at Brown's Temperance
House, Clayton Square. Visited the Zoological Gar-
dens, and afterward passed through the poorhouse of
Derby Union, two miles from the city.
4:t/i. Embarked on board the Cambria at six
o'clock for Boston. Weather mild and very pleasant;
sea smooth ; one hundred and twenty-five passengers.
216 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
We have an excellent state room, high and airy, suffi-
ciently large to contain all of our luggage, and afford
room for dressing.
12th. A gale commenced in the afternoon of last
Sabbath, and before night Mr. Kirk, myself, and sev-
eral others became sick. The wind increased and
blew almost a gale from Sabbath night until last night
five days. The first two days the wind was dead
ahead, and so strong that we could make but five miles
an hour, and accompanied by rain a part of the time.
At other times the sea would break over her bows, and
sweep and wash the whole deck, even the upper deck,
the spray striking high up on the chimney and masts,
the ship at the same time pitching and rolling so that
it was almost impossible to stand without holding by
something. One of the passengers was thrown against
a gun with such violence as to break his knee pan.
The cow, which was an old sailor, was sick, and beat
about so much that she died, and was thrown into the
sea yesterday. Of the one hundred and eight passen-
gers, I was told that on one day but seven appeared at
the table. We kept our berths most of the time for
three days, unable to read, or do any thing. Many
suffered much more than we did. To-day the weather
is very pleasant, the wind light ; still there is much
motion.
Sabbath, September 13. The captain refused a re-
quest that Mr. Kirk might preach, signed by forty
persons ; the first name being that of Washington
Irving.
Friday Morning, September 18. At eight o'clock the
VISIT TO EUROPE. 217
travelers arrived safely in Boston, and were welcomed
by some hundreds assembled in the Park Street morn-
ing prayer meeting, and on the Sabbath by the Mount
Vernon congregation, the services wearing the form
appropriate to a thanksgiving day. A sermon was
preached from the Psalm, " I will extol thee, my God,"
<fec. But the rejoicings were mingled with mourning ;
for, as the ship was Hearing the harbor, bringing to them
their pastor and deacon, one of the most lovely of the
flock was passing away, to return no more, and the
oldest deacon had also, during their absence, left this
church for the church above.
On his return the subject of our narrative resumed
his work with increased delight. His health was never
more vigorous, and his spirits were joyous and light.
The portrait from which the engraving here presented
is a copy, was taken at this time.
19
218 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
CHAPTER XIII.
PERSONAL NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID.
Orphan Children. Little Jane. Delight in the Pleasures of Children.
Little Nelly. Counsel and Care for the Poor. Story of the West In-
dian Family. The Widow and her Boy. Testimony of a Lady.
IN Mr. Safford's family, during the last ten or twelve
years of his life, might always be found two or more
orphan children. We have seen him as early as 1826
taking into his family the children of his own brother,
and becoming a father to them ; but we shall now see
him receiving many times that number, of those who
had not the claims of kindred upon him. Among
them were the children of Germans, Irish, French,
Scotch, and English. These were seated at his table,
and retained in his family for weeks, months, or years,
as the case might require. Some of them were at
length adopted by others, and some were placed in
situations where they could support themselves. He
might truly say, with the patriarch, " I have not eaten
my morsel myself alone, and the fatherless hath not
eaten thereof." And never did he eat it with a better
relish, never did his whole countenance beam with
more delight than when his table had been extended
to furnish new accommodations for others.
His own children were now leaving home, the one
for a residence in New York, and another to enter
NARRATIVES OP CHARITABLE AID. 219
college. But he had other children, as he said, besides
his own to care for, and these were without number,
and of all countries. The first was a youth from
India, by the name of Barlow, who had been converted
to Christianity ; the next, a little homeless German
girl ; then, a family of three children, with the mother ;
then, an English girl, of ten years, with her little
brother of four ; after that, another English family of
three children, with the mother, whose husband was
supposed to be lost at sea, leaving the widow sorrowful,
sick, and discouraged ; the next, a bright little Scotch
girl of seven, whose mother had been accused of crime,
and committed to jail, and the father brought this, his
only treasure, to leave it with Mr. Safford, as he for-
sook the country, never to return.
Of a little Irish child received into his family he
thus speaks in a letter to his sou :
January 26, 1849.
MY DEAR SON : I wish you could step in and pass
an evening with us occasionally. We have a very
pleasant family this winter. Besides Daniel Ephraim,
we have L. E. and II. W., who, by invitation, are
passing the winter with us ; and also little Jane, an
orphan child about twenty months old. When your
mother found her, she looked dirty and miserable, had
sore fingers, and was almost sick. For nearly a week
she would scarcely look up, and never smiled, but pout-
ed out her lips, and was very uninteresting. She is
now in good health, is lively and happy, and talks very
well for one of her age. She has beautiful hair, very
pleasant dark eyes, fine complexion, with rod cheeks,
is very affectionate, and, we think, truly handsome.
220 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
A lady has commenced a correspondence with us who
wishes to adopt her as her own. If she does not take
her, I do not know but we shall keep her ourselves.
This little child, after a few months, was claimed
by distant relatives, who had previously refused to do
any thing for her support, or even to inquire after her
welfare, supposing her to be still in the almshouse,
where they left her under Roman Catholic influences.
But on being told that she was in a Protestant family,
they came and carried her to the Sisters of Charity,
who had also, until now, refused to receive her.
These relatives acknowledged that she had every
desirable comfort and care in Mr. Safford's house, and
that she appeared perfectly happy. They manifested
no affection for her ; indeed, the child had never be-
fore known what it was to be loved by any one. But
they said her soul would be lost, and they would have
to suffer in purgatory for the sin of allowing her to
become a heretic, and their priest had told them they
must at all events get the child away from the Protes-
tants.
The case of this child very strikingly illustrated the
power of love to transform the character. She became
truly lovely, although, as Mr. Safford has stated, sho
had been so uninteresting that even he was not at all
attracted toward her for the first two or three weeks.
But one day he came home bringing a doll in his coat
pocket. As he opened the package and held it up,
looking smilingly upon her, she ran up to him witli
her hands extended, and was taken upon his knee.
She now found that she was really loved by him, and
their friendship was soon sealed. She learned the
NARRATIVES OP CHARITABLE AID. 221
sound of his key as it was introduced into the lock of
the front door, and however absorbed with her play-
things, they were left, and her little feet were heard pat-
tering through the entry to greet him on his entrance.
So effectually had she conquered the habit of pouting,
the most powerful stimulus with her being the fear
that she should not be loved, that, when the time of
parting came, which was truly a sad event to the
whole household, as well as to the child, as she was
carried out of the door by the stranger, it was with
her lips compressed, while her eyes overflowed with
tears. This inspired the hope that other teachings had
not been in vain.
Mr. Safford loved children. His kindness was not
bestowed in pursuance of any formal plan in respect to
them ; but as he had a heart and hand for every good
work, if the providence of God brought to his notice
a little child in circumstances needing fatherly kind-
ness, whether it was of refined and cultivated parent-
age, or otherwise, he could throw his arms around it,
and, if need be, add it to his household. He was
never annoyed or troubled with any thing which this
involved, except the fear of the care that it imposed
upon his family.
It was delightful to witness the pleasure imparted
and received by such children and their newly-found
friend. Never could there have been a more beautiful
illustration of the sentiments expressed by another
" Live not for selfish ends ; live to bless others ; for
every act of this kind will find a speedy echo in your
own breast." One of them, whom we will call Mary,
then a pleasing little girl of throe summers, was often
taken by him to ride ; he allowing her to sit in his lap
19
222 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
and entertain him with her childish prattle, and then
disputing with her which should sing first, settling the
matter by taking turns. On one occasion a family
party, including little Mary and her brother, visited a
watering place forty miles distant from Boston. In
this excursion, not only Mr. Safford's enjoyment, but
that of the whole party, was much enhanced by the
pleasure it afforded them, especially the brother, then
a boy of eight years. He had expressed the greatest
desire to see that Atlantic Ocean in reality which he
had so often examined upon the map. When he first
came in sight of the sea, inspired with wonder and
delight, lie asked, " Is that truly the Atlantic ? " and
after gazing at it a moment, exclaimed, " Well, I have
never before in my life seen the ocean in all its gran-
deur." On reaching the beach, he was seized with
such an irrepressible desire to bathe in it, that Mr. Saf-
ford said, " Well, jump out of the carriage, and lay off
your jacket and pantaloons, and run." The tide was
flowing out, and the sea was very calm. With delight,
and, as he thought, the bravery of a hero, he obeyed.
But the first ripple that passed over his feet so thor-
oughly affrighted him, that he turned and ran back
with all possible speed to the carriage, saying, " I can
not contend with those mighty waves ! " Such inci-
dents, though trivial in themselves, show at least ono
of the sources from which Mr. Safford's enjoyment
came.
The providence of God which had brought him into
connection with these children was one of peculiar
interest. A wealthy and truly estimable gentleman
and lady, in a distant town in the state, had been early
called to consign one after another of their dear chil-
NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID. 223
dren to the grave. Five little mounds may be seen
side by side in a burial place near their beautiful man-
sion. They had taken to their stricken hearts two
children of a missionary, whom they had educated,
and who were expecting soon to leave their adopted
home, the one to be married, and the other to travel
in foreign countries. In anticipation of this, the lady
had requested Mrs. Safford, if she became acquainted
with any child suitable for adoption, that they might
be informed of it. The latter, having casually met
with little Mary, and learned something of her history,
believed that she would please her friends, and wrote
them accordingly.
They came ; all the arrangements were made, and
the next day she was to go to her new home. At the
tea table were seated, with Mr. Safford's family, little
Mary's two sisters, older than herself, her two brothers,
and her newly-found parents. She was happy in going
with them, for she had been fully informed about the
beautiful borne to which they were taking her. But
she was too much excited to eat, and leaving her seat,
tripped around the table with her fairy-like step, laugh-
ing and shaking her curls, touching each one as sho
passed, in order to get a look and a smile from them.
But whenever she passed Mr. Safford, she would draw
down his ear to her mouth, and whisper,
" If you love me as I love you,
'Twill take a great chopping -knife to cut our loves in two ! "
In December following, Mr. Safford, with two other
of these children, and a bright little girl of seven
years, who had been rescued from a very exposed sit-
uation in the city, and prepared by a short residence
224 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
in his family, started in the cars for their new homes
in the western part of the state. Mary's brother was
the only sad one of the party ; for he did not wish, as
he kept saying, to be " docted," (adopted ;) he wanted
Mr. and Mrs. Safford for his father and mother. But
a kind Providence had found a place for him in an
excellent family, to take the place of a dear son who
had been removed by death. He soon became a joyous
and grateful recipient of their affections and care, and
a light in that dwelling which had been so shaded with
sorrow.
When he had grown to be a lad of fourteen, and
nearly fitted for college, he called upon Mrs. Safford at
her house. He was taken to the room where his early
benefactor had passed through his last weeks of suf-
fering and sickness, and listened with tearful eye to a
description of them, and of the manner in which his
faith had sustained him, and triumphed over death.
In that solemn chamber, and looking forward to their
next meeting, all the kindness he and his family had
received from Mr. Safford, and all that he had wit-
nessed of his daily life, returned to his recollection
with increased force. The next intelligence from him,
as furnished by his letter to Mrs. Safford, stated that
he had chosen the Lord for his God, and was expecting
on the following Sabbath to unite with his people by a
public profession of religion ; also, that his sister Mary,
whose home was but a short distance from his own,
believed that she, too, had recently obtained an in-
terest in the Saviour.
But there were methods in which Mr. Safford's be-
nevolence was exercised, which can not be appreciated
without a more minute description. No service was
NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID. 225
undignified, in his view, which Jie could render to add
to the comfort or relieve the suffering of a human being.
The same arms which carried up the load of wood for
the poor widow, when a young man and a blacksmith,
were ready to perform any similar labor, when neces-
sary, throughout his life. He had studied the example
of Christ, and been deeply impressed by it. A brother
deacon remarked of him, " The directions of the Sa-
viour 'If I, your Lord and Master, have washed
your feet, ye ought to wash one another's feet ' he
received in their literal import, and beautifully illus-
trated them in all his official character."
The history of one of the families who shared, not
only in his pecuniary benefactions, but in his personal
counsels and care for many years, seems worthy of
more minute detail. It will serve to illustrate the
wonderful ways of God in fulfilling his promises to
those who put their trust " under the shadow of his
wing." A day of fasting and prayer had been ap-
pointed at his house for the sisters of Mount Vernon
church. Mrs. Safford had retired to her room to
spend a little time in preparation for the meeting,
when she was called to the basement, where sat a
stranger, clad in the habiliments of mourning. Her
countenance showed marks of intelligence, mingled
with deep sadness, and when she spoke, her accent
being French, the tones of her voice and manner were
those of a cultivated and refined woman. Her dress
also, although threadbare and very rusty, was of the
finest texture. A deep struggle was apparent as she
attempted to make known the object of her call ; but
receiving encouragement and sympathy, she at length
expressed herself freely. She said, "I have been
226 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
educated with the impression that to be poor is the
greatest disgrace possible, and poverty has always been
regarded by me as the most terrible calamity that
could befall me. On the way here I have not lifted
my eye from the sidewalk, because I imagined, al-
though a stranger in the city, that every body knew I
was going to beg bread for my children. But the
Lord knows what a proud heart I have had, and he
will cure his children in his own way."
She then gave an outline of her history, which was
so strange, and yet told with such simplicity and ap-
parent sincerity, that it was listened to with intense
interest. Mrs. Safford informed her that she would
soon call and see her family, and returned to her
chamber, half doubting whether it were not all a fab-
rication, having so many times been thus deceived.
Opening the Bible to find a portion of God's word on
the subject of fasting and prayer, her eye rested first
on that in Isaiah. She read it, paused and pondered,
and read it again, and said, " Is this the voice of the
Lord to me at this moment ? ' Is not this the fast
that I have chosen, that thou deal thy bread to the
hungry, and that thou bring- the poor that are cast out
to thy house ? when thou seest the naked that thou
clothe them, and that thou hide not thyself from thine
own flesh ? ' ' The words of the stranger, as she was
leaving, " Mrs. Safford, if you will help me God will
bless you, I know he will ; " returned witli double
power. God himself was uttering them. " Then shall
thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health
shall spring forth speedily. Then shalt thou call, and
the Lord shall answer. Thou shalt cry, and He shall
say, Here I am." It was the voice of the Lord, and
could not be resisted.
NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID. 227
Mrs. Safford went to Pitts Street, where she was
told she would find them, and followed a dark stair-
way up to the door. After knocking, all was silent for
a moment ; at length a little face, with pretty black
eyes, peeped out, and a sweet voice said, " Mother told
us not to admit any one in her absence." " I have
seen your mother," replied Mrs. Safford, " and she
would be willing I should come in. If any blame is
incurred, I am responsible." The door opened, and
presented a scene such as may seldom be witnessed.
It was only necessary to look upon it to read the story.
Every thing was in confusion. There were articles
which must have been possessed in days of affluence,
mingled with those indicating deep poverty. The
mattress was thrown upon the floor, and the bedstead
taken down. The little girls, in their simplicity,
answered all the questions asked. " Why is your bed
taken to pieces ? " " Oh, the man of whom my
mother hired the bedstead says we can not have it any
longer if she does not pay for the use of it ; and
mother has no money, and so he is going to send and
take it away."
Their history, as related by herself, was this : The
mother was born in the Island of Martinique. Her
mother was a French Catholic, and her father an Eng-
lishman, son of a highly respectable man who held an
office under the British government, as collector of
the English revenues of Canada. This lady had in,,
herited a princely fortune from her father, who was
killed in the time of the insurrection at St. Domingo,
at which time his family fled to the Island of Mar-
tinique with only their jewelry, which alone enabled
them to live in princely style until their other prop-
228 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
erty was partially recovered. Nurtured thus in the
lap of affluence, the fond mother never imagined that
her daughter could ever know a want, and uncon-
sciously fostered that pride which now the latter said
she had to suffer so much in curing. Diamonds had
been displayed so profusely that they were regarded as
very common ornaments, and she was not allowed to
wear any thing but the most costly articles of dress
if possible, not one that could be obtained by any other
person on the island, all their goods being imported
expressly for her from Paris.
But what was a more serious evil, and one from
which she now suffered most, was the impression which
her mother had given her that it was very degrading
for her to perform the least service for herself or for
others. She must rely on servants for every thing.
Her mother, once seeing her with a broom in her hand,
angrily caught it and threw it down, saying, " Do not
ever let me see you with such a vulgar thing as that
in your hand again."
At length her father died, and her mother married
again ; and by a series of events over which she had
no control, her handsome fortune was gradually dimin-
ished, till she had but a single estate remaining. In
the hope of recovering that which she had lost, she
was strongly urged to permit the sale of this also.
Her better judgment convinced her of the futility of
such anticipations, but, unable to withstand the press-
ure of entreaty, she took the pen, and signed the pa-
per ; then turning to her daughter, and bursting into
tears, she exclaimed, " Now, my daughter, you are a
poor girl," and died very soon of a broken heart.
This idol of that mother gathered up what could be
NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID. 229
saved from the wreck of her fortune. She was accom-
plished, attractive, and still young, and soon after
accepted the hand of a lawyer of very respectable
parentage, well educated, but trained in the dissipated
habits of the society in which he had mingled. He
died young, and left her a widow, with four little chil-
dren, two of whoru. were adopted by relatives.
When a girl of sixteen, a New England gentleman
had been a guest at her father's house, then the abode
of luxury. He was captivated with her, and sought
unsuccessfully her hand in marriage, but, on leaving,
asked her to accept from him a volume of the New
Testament. She had never seen one. After he left,
she turned over its leaves with contempt, then threw it
down, and it was carried, with other rubbish, to the
garret.
But the gayeties and frivolities to which she was
accustomed failed to satisfy the cravings of her higher
nature ; neither was there any thing in the religion of
forms in which she was educated to interest her. She
often retired to a solitary place, weary and sick at
heart. God had marked her for his own, and was
beginning within her a work which required a process
of severe and protracted discipline to complete. At
length she remembered the New Testament which she
had so contemptuously thrown away. She found it in
the garret ; she read it with avidity, then knelt and
offered her first sincere prayer. God heard it, and
ever after that little book was cherished by her as her
most precious treasure.
We pass over some years of her history, and find
her brought by a second marriage to North Carolina,
still attached to the Catholic church, and knowing no
20
230 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
other form of Christianity. One day, influenced, as
she afterward believed, by the divine Spirit, she said
to herself, " I will just go in for a few moments and
see this Protestant worship." She was at once im-
pressed with its stillness and spirituality, and thought,
." Why, this is just what I have longed for." Her
mind, naturally simple and clear, had been bewildered
by forms, rites, dogmas, and penances ; now she was
listening to the simple gospel. Her Saviour was re-
vealed as her own precious Friend and Guide ; she
received him fully, with joy and gratitude, and never
again entered a Catholic church. Henceforth she
found support under sorrows deeper than ever before
experienced ; for she was soon after left a widow, with
three little children, entirely destitute. Her husband
was wrecked at sea, and all his property, which was
invested in the ship and cargo, was lost with him.
We now pass over another interval of two or three
years, and find her in Boston. She had come north,
hoping to find relatives of her last husband able to aid
her ; but being disappointed in this, she repaired to
this city, thinking, as her last resource, to support
herself by teaching French. Here her faith had been
sorely tried. Month after month her eiforts to procure
scholars were ineffectual. At the same time, she con-
cealed her destitute condition as carefully as possible,
selling one article after another, until, as we have
seen, she had nothing more even to buy a loaf of bread
for her children. But she said, " It is my heavenly
Father ; he abhorred my pride, and will by this fire
of adversity consume it. I submit. It is as when you
have a very sore finger ; the doctor orders a remedy to
be applied which is extremely painful, but it is the
NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID. 231
only way to save your finger, and you say you will
bear it. I will drink the bitter cup, for it is my Father
who mingles it."
Let us now see Mr. Safford undertaking this case.
He as yet knew nothing beyond her own statement.
To do any thing for her effectually, much must be.
done. Should he give her money ? She knew noth-
ing about the use of money, for one of the saddest
effects of her education was to render her wholly
ignorant of its value. Should he buy her provisions
from day to day ? But that would make her unhappy,
and tend to destroy that self-respect which he wished
to cherish. She desired to teach ; but, in her present
circumstances, it would be impossible to procure schol-
ars. He called at her room; he listened, and was
deeply affected by her story. He asked, " What can
you do besides teaching ? " "I can sew ; " and she
showed him a garment she was trying to make, by
which she would earn a small pittance. But though
extremely nice with her needle, she was very slow.
" Can you do nothing else ? " " Yes, one thing. All
the daughters of the island were taught and allowed to
make jellies, and I have now the very kettle I received
from my mother for that purpose." Mr. Safford caught
the idea. It would test her willingness to make an
effort for her own support. If successful, it would
encourage her, and the occupation would be a diverr
sion from her deep sorrow.
Accordingly, we see him in Tremont Street, accom-
panying a man with a wheelbarrow. He goes first to
a provision store for a bushel of quinces ; next to a
grocery for the sugar ; then to a crockery store for
the cups, and to a hardware store for a little hand fur-
232 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
nace; and lastly to his own cellar for the charcoal.
The load being made out, it is sent to the place, and
she commences her task. But few can understand the
severity of this test to this delicately-trained woman.
She had indeed performed the process before, but with
servants to do all the labor. Mr. Safford was as much
delighted as she was when at length she triumphed
over all her discouragements, and brought the jelly to
his house. A sample was placed upon his dinner
table, at which she was a happy guest ; the remainder
was sold for her benefit.
After a sufficient time had elapsed for a thorough
acquaintance, it was decided that a house should be
rented for her, and she should make the effort to pro-
cure scholars in French. In this undertaking, a very
respectable and truly benevolent lady, who had been
informed of it, desired to unite. The tenement was
found, furniture was provided, and Mr. Safford sent a
man in the morning to remove her goods. In the
afternoon, he went to the house to see what progress
she was making. There the poor woman stood in the
midst of her goods, just as they had been left, with
her hands folded in perfect helplessness and bewilder-
ment, not knowing the first thing to do to get them in
order. Mr. Safford immediately took hold of the
work himself, and did not leave until he saw her little
parlor carpeted, a fire in the grate, with provision and
fuel to commence housekeeping. But though, when
kindling the fire, he took care to instruct her how to
do it, it was ascertained next day that she had none.
The third morning it being December Mr. Saf-
ford was found dressing himself while it was yet dark ;
and being asked, " Why have you risen so early ? " he
NARRATIVES OP CHARITABLE AID. 233
said, " Oh, I thought I would go over and build Mrs.
C.'s fire for her, before breakfast." He continued this
minute supervision of her affairs for many months.
She manifested a true desire to do what she could,
although her progress was like that of a child in learn-
ing to walk she must take one step at a time. She
at length gained sufficient experience to venture upon
opening a French boarding house, Mr. Safford be-
coming responsible for her rent. Her friends multi-
plied, and not a few became her patrons, and afforded
her important aid. She was employed in five different
schools as a teacher of the French language, and her
amiable disposition and many interesting qualities
attached her pupils strongly to her. But no kindness
of friends could prevent the recurrence of her troubles.
Though strictly honest, she could not learn how to
keep her pecuniary affairs unembarrassed, pay her
debts, and make the most of her little income. Mr.
Safford often patiently investigated her accounts, and
aided her in settling them. But during a summer
when he was absent from the city, she became in-
volved, and her liabilities were so great that she was
obliged to give up what she had to her creditors.
Such was the bitter fruit she now reaped from the
mistaken kindness of her parents, who trained her in
elegant idleness, and utter ignorance of all that was
needed to procure a livelihood for herself, and secure
her independence in the days of adversity which were
before her.
But God fulfilled to her his word, on which he had
caused her to hope. Many friends sympathized with
and comforted her. By an accident which occurred
to her while walking in the street, she received a very
20*
234 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOKD.
severe bodily injury, which subjected her to weeks of
suffering, and from whose effects she did not recover
till her death, several years afterward. Her last hours
were cheered in a remarkable manner by the presence
of the Saviour. To her weeping children she said,
" Do not forget, so long as you live, that your mother
was once too poor to buy a loaf of bread ; that she cried
to the Lord, and he delivered her out of her distresses.
Never be ashamed to have this known. Remember,
God's word is true ; it will never fail ; not one of
those who trust in him shall be desolate. Oh, the
tender mercies, the tender mercies of Jesus ! " Mr.
Safford provided for her funeral, laid her body in his
own tomb, and took the three daughters, now of the
ages of ten, fourteen, and eighteen, to his own house,
which was their home for some months. The faith of
their dying mother has been verified in their history.
God has fulfilled his promises, and proved himself the
Father of the fatherless.
Before the founding of the " Home for Aged and
Indigent Females," Mr. Safford was often seen upon a
cold, snowy morning at the door of a large, old build-
ing in Pleasant Street, where single rooms were rented
by many of this class, with articles in his sleigh to be
distributed among them, which they might not be able
to face fy& storm to procure for themselves. Several
of these were widows, and earned their living by wash-
ing. During the winter of 1838-9, he attended and
conducted a religious meeting on Sunday evenings for
their benefit, in a room occupied by a poor, pious
widow, who had a little boy about ten years old. We
remember how clean and pleasant that humble little
sanctuary looked, lighted up at his expense, and how
NARRATIVES OF CHARITABLE AID. 235
attentively his audience listened as he read and ex-
pounded to them a portion of the precious word,
especially the little boy, sitting upon his stool.
Eighteen years after, as Mrs. Safford was seating
herself in the rail car at Rochester, New York, a well-
dressed and very respectable looking gentleman en-
tered, and hearing her name spoken, came up to her,
and, with a peculiarly earnest manner, asked, " Is this
Mrs. Deacon Safford, of Boston ? " Being told that it
was, he added, " May I have the privilege of speaking
with you ? " He was seated, and continued : " You do
not recognize me; but do you not recollect Mrs. C^,
the widow who used to live in what was called the old
college building in Pleasant Street, and her little boy
who used to carry the clothes she washed to and from
her customers ? / am that little boy. And never shall
I forget, or cease to be grateful for, the kindnesses my
mother received from Mr. Safford and yourself; espe-
cially do I remember, and bless God for, those prayer
meetings which he used to hold in my mother's room
on Sunday nights. As I sat on that stool by her side,
I received impressions of the truth and value of reli-
gion, as it was exhibited in Mr. Safford, which I never
lost. I owe much of what I am to the power of his
example, as I saw it there and knew of it elsewhere.
God has prospered me. I was able to give my mother a
comfortable home the last years of her life. She is now
in heaven ; and I am mourning the loss of one of the
best of wives, who has followed her thither. I desire
to use my property, as Mr. Safford did his, in doing
good. Will you tell me about his sickness and death ?
for I have earnestly desired to hear more than I know,
and would have called when in Boston, but feared to
236 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
intrude upon his family." Mrs. Safford learned after-
ward that this gentleman was a member of one of the
Presbyterian churches of the city of Rochester, an
exemplary Christian, a Bible class teacher, and that
he possessed a handsome property. Just one year
from the day of his wife's death he followed her to
heaven.
The following is an extract from the communication
of a lady, who, with her family, had been aided by Mr.
Safford in a season of deep affliction, and for ten or
twelve years before his death shared largely in his
counsels and parental care.
" I can scarcely recall a scene of importance, during
the past eight years, with which Mr. Safford is not
intimately associated. He was the friend, the coun-
selor, the guide, of myself and children ; and when, in
difficulties, I had conferred with him, I felt safe. I
wish to give my heartfelt testimony to his disinterested
kindness, benevolence, and sympathy. I love to think
of his peculiar tact in smoothing the rough places so
familiar to the widows and the fatherless ; to remem-
ber how his heart was drawn out toward the helpless
little ones, whose eyes, sadly and unnaturally dimmed
by sorrow, I have so often seen brighten with delight,
as they exclaimed, ' Oh, here comes Mr. Safford ! '
and with a bound ran to meet this father of the fa-
therless. And as I have many an evening seen him in
his parlor, surrounded by a flock of these little ones,
and watched the interest with which he joined in their
innocent sports, I have sometimes been at a loss to
decide who seemed the most delighted, they in the
happiness conferred, or he in making them thus happy.
In this connection I wish to speak of the influence of
NARRATIVES OP CHARITABLE AID. 237
his Christian example upon these children. He seldom
made a direct personal appeal to them ; yet his whole
life, every word, and look, and act, spoke so emphat-
ically of the principles which actuated him, that they
felt that, to be like him whom they so dearly loved,
they must be holy.
" I always noticed and admired the spirit of his char-
ities. He had a faculty, peculiar to himself, of making
those obliged by him feel that he was being blessed,
and also that in them individually he was deeply
interested. thus taking hold of the very heart. His
assiduity in any benevolent enterprise in which he
had enlisted was untiring. Duty plain, and the work
of love decided upon, no obstacles were suffered to
thwart his purpose. After he became connected with
the City Missionary Society, and his facilities for ob-
serving the crime and misery which so abound in the
city were increased, his cheerfulness seemed to me to
be of a more subdued character ; and while he found
so much of his happiness in laboring for the relief of
this misery, his countenance often assumed a cast
which folly might mistake for want of joy.
" Another trait prominent in his character, which
always impressed me much, was his unwavering trust
in God. It was always exhibited in himself, and he
never failed to impress its value upon others. I well
recollect, in a time of trial, when entering upon an
uncertain position, and speaking to him of my doubts
and anxieties, the expression of his countenance, as, in
his deliberate manner, he replied, * Trust in the Lord,
and do good ; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and
verily thou shalt be fed.' And in numberless other
cases did he thus lead me to rest in God. Oh, he was
238 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
a kind, dear friend, a blessed counselor and adviser, a
good man, a large-hearted, whole-souled Christian ;
and having done all his work, and done it well, he has
entered upon that abundant, that full reward which
awaited him, the foretastes of which, in no small de-
gree, he seemed here to enjoy."
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 239
CHAPTER XIV.
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN.
Interest for young Men. The young Artist. The Bookseller. The Stu-
dent. The Clerk. The Prodigal, his History and Death. Resolutions
recommended. Letters to his Sons. Conversion of his Son in College.
Testimony of a young Man.
MR. SAFFORD ever felt a deep interest for young
men. He remembered his own early history when
dependent solely upon his character and industry, and
was ready to help others in all practicable methods
which promised to give them respectability and success
in life. In very many instances young men have been
saved from despondency by the heartfelt sympathy
expressed by him, sometimes only by advice, sometimes
by aiding them to procure a situation, and at other
times by giving or lending them money, though never
in large sums. It was not in his power to " set up "
as the term is, young men in business ; but his course
shows in a striking manner how very moderate re-
sources could be turned to great account. Of this
the following instances may serve as examples.
A very respectable, worthy young man had come to
the city hoping to establish himself as an artist ; but
he had no friends and no money, and all his efforts
nad failed. He was almost ready to surrender him-
self to despair, when he met Mr. Safford, who had somo
240 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOED.
knowledge of him through a business friend in the
country. He inquired into his affairs, and received
from the young man a very discouraging account of
himself. Mr. Safford took out his pocket-book, and
handed him one hundred dollars, saying, " Take that,
and wnen you get able you may pay me." As Irish
Mary said of the quarter of a dollar given her, " That
saved my life," so this young man says of this one
hundred dollars, " It saved me from despair, and gave
me new life." He has now stood at the head of his
profession for many years in our city, and has been
able to do many acts of kindness to others.
One of our prominent booksellers says, " I com-
menced business in Boston in 1846, with small means.
I felt myself cramped, and unqualified for competition
with the men of capital. I went to capitalists ; they
gave me a cold shoulder. Some one advised me to go
to Mr. Safford : I went to him ; he met me cordially ;
said, " I'll bear it in mind," but was then unable to
help me. Soon after he came to me : he had found a
person who wished to invest some money, and thought
I could make an arrangement with him. He did me
a real service, and was like a father to me."
In his charity account there occur frequent entries
of donations to aid individuals in getting an education,
besides annual subscriptions to the American Educa-
tion Society. One of these was an apprentice of his
own, who studied for the ministry.
We have the testimony of another, who has been a
useful pastor, and a more than ordinarily successful
preacher of the gospel, for twenty years. He says,
" I was accidentally brought into contact with Mr. Saf-
ford when I was poor and struggling to get an educa-
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 241
tion. He inquired into my circumstances, spoke
kindly, and before leaving the house where we passed
a day or two together, dropped a five dollar bill into
my hand. This act of kindness was repeated as we
met occasionally. A person was owing nxe forty dol-
lars. On this I depended for completing my prepara-
tion for the ministry. The person failed just at the
time when I most wanted it. This overwhelmed me.
The lady with whom I was boarding discovered my
sadness, and urged me to allow her to inform Mr. Saf-
ford of my trouble, as he was there on a visit at the
time. Shortly after, she came to me with forty-five
dollars. Mr. Saiford had spoken of it to another gen-
tleman, who had given twenty, and he added the
twenty-five, making up my loss, principal and interest.
What those forty-five dollars were to me at that mo-
ment, I can not express."
On going, early one morning, to the prayer meeting
in the vestry of Mount Vernon Church, he engaged in
a pleasant conversation with a young member of the
choir, who had also come early, being somewhat inter-
ested in the subject of religion. During the conversa-
tion, the young man told him of his desire to obtain a
situation. Mr. Saffbrd cordially promised his aid and
influence, at the same time kindly and delicately ad-
vising his young friend to abandon the habit of smok-
ing a piece of advice which he desires us to say was,
after a severe struggle, complied with, to the great
benefit of his health and purse. A few days after,
Mr. Saffbrd sent him a note to the effect that Rev. Mr.
Bliss, then Secretary of the American Tract Society,
would like to confer with him. An interview was at
once had, resulting in a pleasant connection, which
21
242 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPFORD.
has for eleven years continued unbroken. The young
man is now depositary of the society, being the only
one remaining there of those who were then in its
service. Shortly after the interview mentioned above,
he became a Christian, and enjoyed the friendship and
confidence of his benefactor until his death.
While Mr. Safford had great satisfaction in seeing
'his efforts prove to many a blessing, and was permitted
to reap a rich reward in their expressions of gratitude
and affection, he was greatly pained by the conduct of
one who was an orphan early committed to him, and who
was followed by him for many successive years with
earnest counsels and prayers. The following letters
addressed to this young man will show something of
his history, while they illustrate the faithfulness and
kindness with which Mr. Safford reproved his faults.
March 23, 1835.
MY DEAR : Yours of the 14th instant is
before me ; but what shall I say in reply ? You have
inherited nearly two thousand dollars, and have been
blessed with good natural and acquired abilities. You
have four times been situated in business where your
prospects were good for future success, but in each
instance your discontent or misconduct threw you out
of employment. You have " spent your substance
with harlots and in riotous living," and, as you say,
have involved yourself in debt to the amount of one
thousand dollars. And now, knowing, as you do, that
your course has been directly opposed to my repeated
advice and earnest entreaty, you come to me for help.
But I ask, What encouragement have I to help you ?
You say you will never step your foot into a house of
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 243
ill fame again, you will never enter a theater again,
and will drink 110 more ardent spirits ; therefore you
think I need not be afraid to trust you in future. I
admit your confessions and promises would" be entitled
to some confidence, did I not remember the tears you
shed, the confessions and resolutions you made, when
you called me into the parlor in Salem Street, and at
other times ; and did I not read, in a letter from you
now before me, dated New York, June 3, 1832, after
similar confessions to those in your last, the following
sentence : " I have now done with such places, and,
with the help of God to keep my mind, I will never
again enter either, except it be to do some good."
I know your aversion, and the aversion of all who
have done wrong, to review the past. I remind you
of this for your good, that you, like the penitent prod-
igal, may return to God, and confess to him your sins,
and be willing to be even a hired servant ; to do any
thing to obtain an honest living, and restore, as far as
possible, the injury you have done to society, to the
feelings and reputation of your friends, and especially
to yourself. Remember, that before I can reasonably
have confidence in your reformation, you must bring
forth fruits meet for repentance.
And now, what shall I say in conclusion ? I am
distressed to see that you enumerate your horrid,
Heaven-daring sins with apparently very little concern
except on account of the poverty which they have
brought upon you. Oh, the stupefying and degrading
effects of sin ! Repent, repent, or not only your
health, your reputation, and your happiness, are de-
stroyed in this life, but your poor, dying soul is doomed
to an endless hell.
With deep anxiety, yours, D. SAFFORD.
244 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
September 21, 1835.
MY DEAR : I have been made happy to-day
by the receipt of your kind letter, dated yesterday,
especially by the spirit you manifest, and the resolu-
tions you say you have made ; and now, allow me to
lay down six rules, which I deem of the first impor-
tance for you to observe, and never deviate from them.
1. Abhor your past sins, principally because they
are offensive to God. Seek pardoning mercy through
Jesus Christ, and resolve in his strength to devote
yourself to him.
2. Drink no intoxicating liquor.
3. Daily read a portion of the Bible, for the purpose
of understanding, believing, and obeying it; and
heartily seek the blessing of God.
4. Avoid all worldly business and amusement on the
Sabbath, and always attend public worship.
5. Treat all persons kindly, but ever avoid the com-
pany of the openly vicious, of all descriptions.
6. Trust not to your own heart or resolutions, but
to the grace of God, and seek, in all that you do, to
please him.
I send you Abbott's Young Man's Guide, and
Corner Stone, which you will find interesting and
useful. If you have time, please write before you
leave New York ; if not, as soon as you arrive at
Mobile, and tell me what business you are in, and in
whose employ. Be assured that every thing about
yourself does, and always will, interest me.
Yours very affectionately, DANIEL SAFFORD.
Besides these wise counsels, Mr. Safford, as far as
he thought it prudent, aided him with money, always
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 245
endeavoring to do it in sucli a way as not to encour-
age a dependence upon him. Several years after the
date of the last letter, the young man came to this
city, reduced to a mere skeleton. Disease had ren-
dered him unable to attend to business. Although he
had had seasons of apparent repentance, during which
his fine business talents procured him a respectable
support,- yet successive relapses into his old habits en-
sued, until, in a confirmed consumption, he returned to
Boston, and from a hotel addressed a line to Mr. Saf-
ford, asking him to come and see him, which was im-
mediately done. At first he was opposed to hearing
any thing on the subject of religion, having dismissed
it from his thoughts entirely, and, as he said, not wish-
ing to be troubled about it any more. Toward the close
of his life, however, he listened with apparent interest
to the reading of the Scriptures, and to prayer offered
in his behalf, and occasionally appeared anxious to
know what he should do to be saved. But having often
repressed such feelings, and resisted the warnings of
the Holy Spirit, it was easy to do so now, and the hope
excited by these manifestations of interest in him was
speedily dispelled.
Late one evening Mr. Safford received a request
from him to come immediately to his room in the hos-
pital. He hastened thither, and found him upon his
bed, alone, and but just alive. There was a little fire
in the grate, and a dim lamp burning upon the table,
with an open Bible before it, to screen his eyes from
the light. His watch lay in a position to enable him
to see the hands, as they counted off the last minutes
he had to live ; for the doctor had informed him he
had but an hour or two more remaining. As Mr. Saf-
21
246 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
ford entered the room, he said, " I have sent for you
because I had something special to say to you before I
die." He had not strength to proceed. Mr. Safford
seated himself, and a silence of several minutes fol-
lowed, which he thought it not best to break. At
length the young man signified to him that he wished
him to bend his ear to his mouth, when, in a very faint
whisper, he said, " I shall die to-night. I have been
very foolish and wicked. You have been all right,
and I have been all wrong. I can not express in lan-
guage the misery and wretchedness I have suffered in
my sinful course. I must die now. It is too late to
undo what I have done. I do not wish you to stay to
see me die. I wish no one present who will have any
sensitiveness or sympathy with me. I desired to say
this, and thank you for all you have done for me.
Now I wish to be left to die alone."
Early the next morning Mr. Safford went to his
room. It was vacant ; the spirit had departed ; the
lifeless clay was in its coffin. In the vigor of man-
hood, before he had lived out half his days, he had
passed away. But the impression made upon Mr.
Safford's mind by that life and that death was never
effaced. He had been deeply interested for young
men before, but never felt as now the importance of
guarding against the .first beginnings of a wrong
course, for he saw how difficult it was to retrace the
steps thus taken.
The following is a set of resolutions which he once
assisted a young man to frame when about leaving his
paternal home, as a safeguard from temptations to
which he might be exposed, and which Mr. Safford
knew, both from his own early experience and later
observation, could not bo too strenuously resisted :
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 247
RESOLUTIONS.
1. I will rise early in the morning, and make it a
rule not to be out of my boarding house after ten
o'clock in the evening.
2. I will have a regular place of worship, where I
will attend, forenoon and afternoon, on each Sabbath,
unless prevented by sickness ; and will never engage
in business or amusement on that day.
3. I will endeavor to promote the interest of my
employer as if it were my own.
4. I will not play with cards, nor gamble in any
way, even for the smallest amount.
5. I will not drink wine, nor any other intoxicating
liquor, as a beverage, under any circumstances.
6. I will not use tobacco in any way.
7. I will never visit a theater, or any other place
where immoral practices are encouraged.
8. I will carefully avoid all profane language, and
will not voluntarily associate with those who use it, or
with those who are intemperate or dissolute in their
habits.
9. I will employ my leisure time in such manner as
will have a tendency to improve my mind or health.
10. I will keep an accurate account of all tho
money I spend, what I spend it for, and make a
monthly return of the same to my father.
The above resolutions I pledge myself conscien-
tiously to comply with.
Signed,
The extracts which follow arc from letters addressed
to his two sons, one of them now in business in New
248 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPFORD.
York, and the other a member of Yale College. They
will not only show Mr. Safford as a father, but also
the kind of advice which he was accustomed to give
to young men. Such counsels can not but be valuable
to all who would lay broad and deep the foundations
of future usefulness and happiness. The following is
to his son in college :
October 20, 1848.
Your account is very acceptable and minute. I
think it very important for you to continue this prac-
tice of keeping your accounts in detail. I am very
much pleased with your habit of early rising and re-
tiring, and doubt not, if you persevere in it, you will
find it both pleasant and beneficial, especially if ac-
companied with systematic daily exercise.
He again writes to the same :
January 22, 1849.
It affords me very great satisfaction to know that
you have commenced your college life with so much
honor to yourself, and satisfaction to the faculty of the
college, and the family with whom you room and
board. If you continue through your college course
the habits of economy, study, exercise, and general
regularity of deportment with which you have com-
menced, and especially if you add to these the " one
thing needful," you will reflect iipon it with satisfac-
tion during the whole of your future existence. Many
a man has spent life in unavailing regrets that he has
wasted his college privileges. Many more will no
doubt spend eternity in the same way, because they
have wasted their religious privileges through life.
That neither may be* your case, improve the present,
and thus bless the future.
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 249
He thus addresses bis son in New York :
January 26, 1849.
There is quite a rush for California here, as well as
in your city. Mr J., one of my partners, thinks of
going, and two or three of my journeymen. My im-
pression is, that one half who go from these parts will
lose their lives or health ; a few of the remainder will
make fortunes ; but the great majority of those who
return at all, will return as poor as they went, owing
to their own misconduct or the villany of others.
To his son in college.
March 20, 1849.
Mrs. B. informs me that you and your chum have
received the two highest prizes in your division. This
is very gratifying to us. I hope, in all your study of
books, you will not neglect the Book of books, or the
duties which it requires. If it is important for us to
obey the laws of the land, in order to escape their pen-
alties and secure their rewards, how important to obey
the law of God, to escape its penalties and secure its '
rewards ! You have probably heard of Miss Lyon's
death, which occurred two weeks since. She was sick
but eight or ten days, of inflammation of the brain,
probably occasioned by over mental exertion. Her
loss is very great. The mourners are many and sin-
cere ; her reward in heaven glorious, without doubt.
I hope you do not neglect daily exercise ; if the
weather is unpleasant, take it in the gymnasium.
I hope you will take sufficient time at your meals,
oven if you sit a long while after the others have left ;
as eating fast is unquestionably injurious to health.
250 .'... MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
To the same.
March 31, 1849.
I congratulate you and your chum on your success ;
but while I do this, I must caution you against apply-
ing yourself so closely to study as to injure your eyes
and health. Many an ambitious student has so injured
his eyes and health, while in college, as to prevent his
ever using his learning to profit, either to himself or
others.
I am glad an effort is being made in behalf of tem-
perance among the students, and hope you will aid it
by personal efforts and subscriptions.
To his son in New York.
June 5, 1849.
MY DEAR SON: On the subject of -changing your
place I hardly know what to say. Frequent changes
usually have an unfavorable effect upon one's char-
acter. I do not think it would, be wise at any rate
to leave your present situation, until you are sure of
another, such as you like and your uncle would ap-
prove. If you can do that, and leave where you are
with honor, I should not probably object. In that
case, I should go on to New York, and see about it
with you. I send this by Mr. J. B., of the firm of
Palmer & Bachelders. You may have seen by the
papers that I have become a limited partner in that
concern, and' left the old firm, " D. Safford & Co."
Your affectionate father.
To the same.
October 31, 1849.
I feel as anxious as you can that you should acquire
all the knowledge possible of business during the brief
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 251
period of your minority ; but remember that, wherever
you are, practical knowledge can only be obtained by
close and persevering application.
To the same.
February 9, 1850.
MY DEAR SON: Since you left I have scarcely
been out of the house. Dr. L. calls my illness the
" shingles." If it is so, I hope I shall not need shin-
gling again very soon. I hope to get out next week.
I am pleased to learn that your new situation is se-
cured. Your mother received a letter from you yes-
terday, of which she is quite proud. She will answer
it as soon as she has attended to the wants of all the
poor and sick she knows of. She will send you some
books also, now that you have become so fond of read-
ing. This leads me to think that a book-case would
be very convenient. If you find one that suits you,
you had better get it.
To the same.
July 10, 1850.
MY DEAR SON : Your very pleasant letter of the
8th instant was received yesterday. It is peculiarly
gratifying to me to learn that your business connection
is going on so pleasantly and prosperously. The only
way to secure proper compensation for services, is to
render them so valuable as to make it for the em-
ployer's interest to secure those services by giving
such compensation.
This morning brings the melancholy intelligence of
the death of our excellent president, General Taylor.
How mysterious the providence that ho should be
252 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOED.
taken away so suddenly, in this critical state of public
affairs ! But God can bring order out of confusion,
and overrule for good what seems to us a great evil.
Oh, how happy are they, whether nations or individuals,
who have the God of Israel for their God ; who in
times of trouble and disappointment, public or private,
can not only submit, but cheerfully acquiesce in, his
providence, which extends over all his creatures, and
all their actions !
To effect a change in his circumstances which might
promote the health of his family, Mr. Safford, in 1851,
took a furnished house and garden in Andover, for six
months ; but his love for Boston prevented the antici-
pation of any increased enjoyment for himself. He
remarked, as he was preparing for the removal, that he
felt very much like one who had been sentenced to the
house of correction for that length of time. He, how-
ever, became very happy in his new occupations, which
we allow him to describe in a letter to his son. He
had not given any attention to agriculture since he left
his father's farm, at the age of sixteen.
May 24, 1851.
L confess I have become much attached to our An-
dover home, with the various objects of interest in and
around it. Corn, peas, beans, and a variety of other
vegetables are showing their heads above the ground ;
flowers of different kinds are unfolding their beauties,
and sending forth their grateful odors. The apple
trees are white with blossoms ; the snowballs also, and
the lilacs, are in bloom. This morning I commenced
mowing some of the tall grass. So much for vegetable
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 253
life ; now for the animal. Our horse Jenny, and cow,
are in fine health and spirits, and perform their duties
faithfully. Your mother has made seventeen pounds
of excellent butter. We have twenty-nine chickens
and fifteen young ducks. By the time you visit us. I
think some of them will find their way to the grid-
iron or spit.
To his son in New York.
May 26, 1851.
MY DEAR SON : I know some young men get the
idea that it is mean and disgraceful to economize ; but
is it not much more so to run into debt beyond one's
ability to pay, and have the collector, and perhaps the
constable, following him day after day ? I should not
so frequently allude to this subject, did I not regard it
as indispensable to your future success and respecta-
bility.
JulyS, 1851.
Our new home becomes more and more interesting
as vegetation advances, and our flocks and herds in-
crease in number and size.
September 30, 1851.
We are still at Andover, but I begin to think Boston
preferable, and when it is cold and stormy I believe
your mother does, although she does not like to say so.
December 23, 1861.
When I received your letter on business, I had but
a little time before the mail closed, and wrote without
much reflection, with a view of having you make
such inquiries as are obviously necessary before coin-
ing to a decision.
22
254 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
I am pleased with the views expressed in your letter,
and doubt not but you would get more information,
and feel more interest, by being a partner in the con-
cern, even though you should only make a living for
the first year or two ; that is, if you could do business
in a safe way ; but I should be very sorry to have you
lose your capital.
If, after a full examination, it should promise to be
a good and safe business, I will furnish the amount for
you without much delay. I was struck with the coin-
cidence when I read the amount named in your letter,
it being the same I had calculated to furnish you with,
when the time should come for you to commence busi-
ness. In forming a copartnership, the most important
thing to be ascertained is the moral and business char-
acter of the man or men. In Boston, I could as-
certain the character and standing of almost any man,
and I frequently think how pleasant it would be to
have you in business here, and board at home ; but if
it is best for you to be in New York, I submit. That
the Lord will guide you, my dear son, in this matter
of business, and in all your undertakings, is the daily
prayer of your ever affectionate father,
DANIEL SAFFORD.
To his son in college.
February 26, 1852.
Thursday next will be observed by the churches
here as a day of fasting and prayer for colleges. I
hope your college, and yourself, in particular, will re-
ceive a great blessing on that day.
The desire that Mr. Safford felt for the conversion
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 255
of this son was much increased after his connection
with college, not merely on account of his exposure to
new temptations, but .because the education he was
receiving, and which he had himself always felt -so
much the need of, would increase his power for good
or for evil in the world. It was a painful thought to
him, that he might be educating a son in opposition to
the cause of Christ, as he believed would prove to be
the case if the latter remained unconverted. He did
not often write to him directly on the subject; he
depended more upon setting him a right example,
expressing kind feelings, and mingling religious in-
struction with ordinary conversation. These were
accompanied with unceasing prayer. Those of the
church who were accustomed to meet upon the day of
the annual concert of prayer for colleges will not soon
forget his earnest request that this son might be re-
membered in their prayers on that day, nor the fervent
pleadings which followed this appeal, from those breth-
ren who led in prayer on that occasion.
But God saw fit to try his faith for one year more.
When the son came home at the next January vaca-
tion, having now entered upon his last collegiate year,
his father, after asking for the influence of the Holy
Spirit to guide them both, in a private interview dis-
closed to him the deep feelings of his soul, and then
took him to the feet of Jesus, and implored him to
make this child whole, pleading especially his own
example when on earth, in healing a son in answer to
the earnest supplications of his father.
It was at length his great joy to receive the fulfill-
ment of his desires. That vacation did not close until
he was permitted to hear from the lips of his son an
256 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
expression of his hope in the Saviour. On returning
to college, the father addressed a note to Professor G.,
informing him of the great change, and asking for his
son his counsels and prayers. In May following he
had the unspeakable satisfaction of welcoming him to
membership in Mount Vernon church.
To his son in New York.
January 28, 1852.
We have received a letter from your brother G.,
since his return to college, of a very satisfactory char-
acter. The change which appears to have taken place
in him I regard as of more importance than all the
wealth and honor which this world can afford com-
bined. And why should I not ? The blessing of the
latter would be imperfect and temporal, that of the
former perfect and eternal. In this change he was
not a passive recipient, but an active agent. He set
himself, by reading the Bible, by prayer, and attending
religious meetings, to seek the Lord in earnest. Do,
my dear son, take up this subject in earnest, and then
we cnay hope to meet, one unbroken family, in heaven.
Your affectionate father, DANIEL SAFFORD.
The great blessing which Mr. Safford had received
from God, in the conversion, as he hoped, of this son,
led him to express his gratitude by doing more for
others. He thought of the anxiety of parents who
had sons in our city, for whom he might do something
more than he was doing.
To his son in college.
February 20, 1852.
MY DEAR SON : "We have just returned from our
church prayer meeting. Dr. Kirk held an inquiry
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 257
meeting in the committee room at the same time. He
had twenty-one present, nearly all of whom indulge
more or less hope that they have given their hearts to
Christ.
On Sunday of last week, we invited all the young
men of the congregation to visit us on Monday evening,
to spend the evening partly in devotions, and partly
socially, closing with some refreshments. About sixty
were present, although the evening was very stormy.
I told them the object "of the visit, that we might
become better acquainted with them, and that they
might become better acquainted with each other,
and mentioned some of the difficulties of a large
congregation like ours, scattered among a population
of one hundred and fifty thousand, becoming ac-
quainted, and spoke of some of the advantages of such
an acquaintance, referring also to the means by which
it might be accomplished, such as the Young Men's
Christian Association, the Mission Circle, and the
Sunday, School. After this, Dr. Kirk read from the
Bible, and commented upon it, sung a hymn, and
prayed. The remainder of the time was occupied in
conversation, <fcc. Before we separated, eight young
men gave me their names, proposing to form them-
selves into a Bible class in the Sabbath school, if I
would become their teacher. One was a lawyer, one
a physician, and others merchants or clerks. I told
them I would not engage to become their teacher, but
would meet with them. We met on last Sunday for
the first time, and on Monday evening, at the mission
circle, several others applied for admission to the
class.
On Thursday evening of last week we had about
22*
258 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
one hundred young married people of the congrega-
tion at our-house, half of whom were strangers to us,
and most of them strangers to one another. The time
was occupied very much as on Monday evening, when
the young men were here. Before they left, a large
Bible class was formed, of which Deacon P. is teacher.
Both parties appeared very happy, expressed many
thanks to us for the privilege, and, I believe, went
away feeling that it was a suitable way of conducting
a party composed of members of the same religious
society. One young man kept his wife (who is pious)
up nearly all night to talk and pray with him. I
learned from her the next day that he would like to
see me ; I called at the store in which he is salesman.
As soon as I entered, one of the proprietors, whom I
did not know, came up, and calling me by name, said,
" I am glad to see you ; I suppose you have called to
look after Mr. D.'s soul ; he is occupied just now ; you
shall see him in a few moments ; " and added, " There
are eight young men in my store anxious." x It is a
very interesting fact, that in the revivals now in prog-
ress, a large proportion of the converts are young
men.
Christians are looking forward with' great interest to
the day of prayer for colleges. How important that
your class should all be brought into the fold of
Christ before they graduate ! Is there any special
interest among the pious students, or anxiety among
the impenitent ? Did you find in your brother D.'s
state of mind any thing more favorable ? Oh, how
important that he should now choose God for his por-
tion ! If I could see him a humble, devoted Christian,
it seems to me I should be ready to adopt the language
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 259
of Simeon, " Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart
in peace, for mine eyes have seen thy salvation." Have
you thought about making a profession of religion ?
and if so, where ? As your college course is nearly
closed, you will be likely to be more in Boston for a
few years to come than in New Haven. I have no
wish to dictate on this subject ; my feelings would lead
me to desire that you should unite with the Mount
Vernon church, but our feelings are not always a safe
guide. Your affectionate father.
To his son in New York.
April 1, 1852.
While dating this letter, it occurs to me that it is
your birthday anniversary. Is it possible that you are
twenty-two years old ? How soon probation will close,
and the retributions of eternity be commenced, never
to end ! Now, my son, while you are trying to make
preparations for the future, in this short life, which
may never come, and for which I commend you, are
they not far more important for that future life which
certainly will come, and will never end ? Will you
not be persuaded to obey the command of Christ, and
seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,
and then all these things will be added to you ?
To the same.
August 14, 1852.
Your mother and George start to-morrow for
Montreal. I do not expect to accompany them, as
I am engaged introducing water into the Mount Hoi-
yoke Seminary from the river below, with bathing
rooms, tc.
260 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
To the same.
October 7, 1852.
I returned from South Hadley last evening, where I
have been the last month, aiding in bringing into the
building the water from the river back of the seminary,
by. means of a force pump, and conducting it, hot and
cold, into all the stories. It operates very finely, and
will be much for the health and comfort of the young
ladies. It was my intention to visit New York before
this, but so much of my time has been taken up at
South Hadley, that I may not find it convenient to do
so this autumn.
To the same.
March 21, 1853.
MY DEAR SON : In reference to the subject you
now propose, I wish to say, that it is dangerous for a
young man of little experience, and whose time is all
taken up in business, to engage in speculation in real
estate, stocks, or paper securities of any kind, as he
can not compete with men of experience in those mat-
ters, who have time and facilities for investigating
every security that is offered. I assure you that it
requires more skill to keep money than to get it. You
say you had an opportunity, a short time ago, to invest
where you might have made eight per cent., arid not
much risk. I understand that money is worth one
and one half per cent., at this time, in State Street ;
but /would not do it, for three reasons: 1st. It is un-
lawful ; 2d. It is risky, and if I should succeed six
times without loss, I might the seventh time lose all
that I had made, and more too; and, 3d. I have
none unemployed.
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 261
But perhaps you would say, " I would not engage in
speculation ; I would only make some safe and profit-
able investments." To that I should reply, " You would
not make permanent investments, as you might soon
want your funds for business, and if you depend on
selling again, that makes it a matter of speculation ;
it may sell for more, and it may sell for less than the
cost." You say, " I am very anxious to get a little
ahead to have some property." Now, my dear D.,
no man would rejoice more in tl;e prosperity of a son
than I should in yours. In fact, I think you are
prospering.. To receive a year is certainly doing
very well ; and if you had property, you would find
happiness was not in that. The order which God has
laid down is, u Seek first the kingdom of God, and its
righteousness ; " but if we reverse his order, we shall
be disappointed in the result, or, what is worse, he
may give us the desire of our hearts, and send lean-
ness into our souls.
To the same.
March 31, 1853.
By this day's express I send you a watch an
English lever, with a chronometer balance as a birth-
day present. After carrying a small one, you may
think, at first, this is large and heavy ; but I wish you
to have one that will last you as long as you live, and
keep good time, and you can not be so sure of this in
a small, light one.
" Punctuality is the life of business," was a maxim
in use long before " men traveled by steam and wrote
by lightning." And if it was true then, it is more
so now. Punctuality consists in being in the place
262 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
appointed at the time appointed, not a long time be-
fore, nor a short time after. And in order to that, one
must have the correct time.
To his son George.
April 7, 1853.
MY DEAR SON : I am very glad you have so freely
mentioned the different plans you have had in mind,
upon none of which you have yet decided. After four
years' close study in college, you doubtless needed one
year for partial relaxation, general reading, and ob-
taining knowledge of men and things. Some of these
objects can be attained in your present situation, as
well as any you would be likely to find.
As you ask my advice, I would say, taking it for
granted that your intention is to study theology, my
opinion is, that when your present engagement termi-
nates, you had better commence the study of your
profession in such place and manner as will be most
agreeable and useful to you, without regard to any
reasonable expense. If, by any thing I have said at
any time, you have received the impression that I wish
you to earn the means of finishing your education, I
will remove that impression entirely. I am paying
more or less, nearly every year, to aid young men in
preparing for the ministry ; and now that my own son
is looking forward to that profession, I regard it as one
of the greatest privileges of my life to be permitted to
educate him to preach the gospel of Christ to dying
men, and wherever God, in his providence, may call
him.
On the mode of studying theology, whether in a
seminary or out, I will state my impressions, so far as
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 263
I have any, without wishing, or even being willing, to
influence you against your own judgment. As at
present advised, I should think it best for you to com-
mence in a seminary, and after two or three years, or,
perhaps, after going through the whole course, spend
a year or less with some good practical pastor ; but of
that you can judge better hereafter.
As to the place, it may be well for you to spend the
first year in New York Seminary, and finish in An-
dover.
I trust I need not remind you that, while it is proper
to ask my advice on this subject, and gratifying to me
to have you, it is infinitely more important to ask wis-
dom of Him who giveth to all men liberally, and who
has promised those who acknowledge him in all their
ways that he will direct their steps.
And now, my dear son, that you may be guided in
the right way, now and through life, and that your life
may be one of great usefulness, is the earnest prayer
of your affectionate father.
To his son in New York.
April 25, 1855.
MY DEAR SON : Since I saw you last I have had
another attack of my heart difficulty, by which I was
entirely prostrated in body and mind, having been for
a time deprived of all consciousness. But by the
kindness of my heavenly Father, I was soon relieved,
and in a few days was nearly as well as before. Since
that attack I have frequently been admonished that I
am a minute man, and ought to hold myself ready to
be summoned before my Judge at any moment.
My pecuniary affairs are arranged according to my
264 MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
best judgment ; and although I have great occasion to
mourn over my own sins, and that I have done so little
for Him who has done so much for me, yet I have for
the most of the time a comfortable hope that, through
the abounding grace of God in Jesus Christ, to whom
I endeavor daily to consecrate myself, my own soul
is safe.
But there is one thought that presses upon my spirits
almost constantly, and sometimes with great weight.
It is that my sou, my oldest son, my beloved sou, has
lived in God's world more than a quarter of a century,
and furnished no satisfactory evidence that he has ever
exercised one emotion of love or true gratitude to Him
who has given him all the temporal blessings he en-
joys, and who has, at such immense expense, provided
a way for his pardon and eternal salvation, if he will
only repent of and forsake his sins, and believe in the
Lord Jesus Christ.
If you die an impenitent, unbelieving sinner, as
surely as God is true, you must go away into everlast-
ing punishment, where will be weeping and gnashing
of teeth, " where their worm dieth not and the fire is
not quenched."
Do you think it hard and unkintl for a father to
write thus to a beloved son ? It is the language of
Him who so loved the world as to leave a heaven of
glory and happiness for a death of greater suffering
than any other being ever endured, that the world
through him might be saved. " Greater love hath no
man than this, that a man lay down his life for his
friends." But Christ has laid down his life for his
enemies, and all the terrible threatenings and warnings
of the Bible I regard as evidence of his love, as really
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 265
as the invitations and promises which so abound in
that book.
May 8. I had written the above, when I received
your letter, stating your intention to be in Boston in a
few days. I then thought I might have an opportunity
to say to you all that was in my heart on this great
subject ; but you know I saw you only a short time,
and that in company with others.
Yesterday I had a free conversation with my physi-
cian on the nature and probable result of my disease.
He told me he had no doubt that ossification had taken
place in some important artery connected with the
heart, which was incurable ; and although I might
possibly live years, I was liable to die at any time,
without a moment's warning ; and that when I die, it
is probable that my consciousness will leave me before
I am aware of any immediate danger.
Think not, because you are not aware of any fatal
disease upon you, there is time enough yet for you to
prepare for death. A few days ago N. E. was appar-
ently in as good health as you ; but before his absent
friends could reach him, he was called to meet his
Judge. Oh, my son, do not defer this work to a future
time. If you could be sure of a long life, and of
being converted before you die, would it not be wicked
and ungrateful in the extreme to be willing to live in
rebellion against God all the best of your days ? But
you are not sure of long life ; and if your life should
be spared, the probability is, that your disinclination to
repent would increase witli your years.
Were I to enter your chamber, and find that the
only stairway by which you could escape was on fire,
and should cry out, " Escape for your life, or you will
23
266 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
perish in the flames," would you not thank me, and
think it very kind in me ? So God, in view of a more
dreadful death than that of the body, calls after you,
saying, " Turn ye, turn ye, for why will ye die ? "
But suppose that, instead of thanking me for the
timely warning, you should say, " I am writing a letter
to send by the steamer which leaves to-day ; I can not
leave just now," and should remain until the stairway
had fallen, and was consumed ; would you not be act-
ing quite as rationally as you do in disregarding the
warnings and entreaties of your heavenly Father ?
There is, however, this difference : in the one case, you
would lose all the enjoyment you anticipate in this
world in a few years, and suffer the pains of a con-
suming fire a few moments, while, in the other case,
you would lose the everlasting enjoyments of heaven,
and suffer the eternal torments of hell. Oh, my son,
do be entreated by the threatenings, the invitations,
and the promises of the Bible to turn now to the Lord.
Read over and over the parable of the prodigal son ;
notice his first thoughts of his father's house con-
trasted with his own condition, with the prospect of
starving ; then his determination to return ; then his
actually setting out with his face toward home ; then
think of the feelings and conduct of his father, who,
seeing him a great way off, ran to meet him, and em-
braced him in all his rags. Now, this represents the
feelings of God toward the penitent, returning sinner.
After reading this over, and reflecting upon the sub-
ject it presents seriously and prayerfully, will you not
write me just how you feel, and what you intend to do
about it, and when ? Do not resolve to attend to it at
some future time : by so doing, you resolve not to
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOE YOUNG MEN. 267
attend to it now ; you quiet your conscience for pres-
ent neglect of duty, and harden your heart against
future appeals. Why can we not write and talk as
freely on this subject as on any other ? Is there any
thing else half so important, especially if we take into
account our whole existence, the future as well as the
present ? Surely not.
Your affectionate father.
The following was written on receiving a present of
a walking cane from his two sons :
May 26, 1855.
MY DEAR SONS : I have frequently thought of late
that a cane would be a support to me in walking ; and
when I opened the box last night, and saw that beautiful
one from you, I thought there was nothing of equal
value that would be so acceptable to me. It exactly
suits my taste in color, size, and form. The length is just
right, and it is rendered doubly valuable by the names
of the donors which it bears. It will be my constant
traveling companion. How pleasant to be supported
by my sons when walking about the city !
I can not bless you as Jacob did the two sons of
Joseph, when he " worshiped, leaning on the top of
his staff," but my prayer shall be, that the God of Ja.
cob may crown you with all needed temporal blessings
while you live, and that when you are called to walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, his rod
and staff may comfort you. And then may we all
walk together the golden streets of the heavenly Jeru-
salem, beside that river of the water of life, clear as
crystal, proceeding out of the throne of Ood and the
Lamb, and together cast our crowns at tlio foot of Him
268 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOKD.
who sits upon it, tuning our harps in unison with the
redeemed out of every nation, in praise to Him who
loved us and gave himself for us.
Your very affectionate father.
To his son in New York.
BOSTON, May 22, 1855.
MY DEAR SON: Your very kind, frank, and con-
fiding letter of the 13th instant was duly received and
repeatedly read with great pleasure and solicitude ;
with pleasure to learn that you are and have been
thinking so seriously upon the great subject of reli-
gion, and your own salvation, which I think must be
attributed to the Holy Spirit ; with solicitude lest you
should not yield to his gracious influences, and be left
in a more hardened and hopeless state than before.
You may grieve the Holy Spirit in a variety of ways.
You may do it by caviling at the doctrines of the
Bible; by indulging hard thoughts of God; by neg-
lecting prayer, the reading of the Scriptures, or any
other known duty ; you may do it by thinking or
speaking lightly of religion, in the presence of ungodly
persons, thus showing that you are ashamed of Christ
and his cause ; and by any other sin of commission or
omission.
But perhaps there is no way by which a person feel-
ing as you say you do, " anxious to be a Christian, and
determined to be one," is more likely to grieve the
Holy Spirit, than by trying to work out a righteousness
of his own, thus rejecting the righteousness of Christ.
It is true, if you live in the neglect of any known
duty, or in habitual commission of any known sin, you
have no right ever to expect the favor of God. But
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 269
if you should live a perfectly holy life in thought,
word, and deed, from this moment to the end of your
life, this would not atone for one of your past sins.
The great adversary of your soul would gladly per-
suade you that it is presumption for you to go to Christ
until you have broken off your bad habits, have prayed
a great deal more, read the Bible more, felt -a deeper
conviction of sin, &c., <fec. If the prodigal son had
waited until he could procure a rich robe, shoes for his
feet, and a ring for his hand, in which to meet his
father, it is not likely he would ever have returned.
Christ came not to call the righteous, but sinners, to
repentance. The conduct of the father in running to
embrace his son, while yet a great way off, in all his
rags, was doubtless designed to represent the readiness
of God to receive and welcome the penitent, believing
sinner.
When the jailer came trembling, and fell down be-
fore Paul and Silas, with the inquiry, " Sirs, what
must I do to be saved ? " Paul did not tell him,
You must make amends for the injuries you have
done to us, or, You must perform a long round of
duties, but simply, " Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ,
and thou shalt be saved." After that he took them
into his house, washed their stripes, set meat before
them, and rejoiced, believing in God with all his house.
Xow, my dear son, your true and only safe course is to
go directly to Christ, in penitent faith, just as you are,
with your feet stained with his blood, which you have
so long trampled upon. And if you have got as far as
this without deep conviction of sin, pray for the Holy
Spirit, whose office it is to reprove of sin, of righteous-
ness, and of judgment. " Of sin because they believe
23*
270 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
not on me" as if unbelief were the greatest sin in the
world. If you are troubled with wandering thoughts
in prayer, or while listening to the preaching of the
gospel, with pride, selfishness, or any other sin, do not
try to forget it, and think that God will ; but tell him
all about it,. especially those things that trouble you
most, on account of which you feel most guilty, and
ask pardon for Christ's sake. It is a great mistake
that some make when they have been guilty of sin :
instead of going directly to God, to confess it and ask
forgiveness, they wait until a sense of guilt is a little
worn off, or try to forget it, which they may do ; but
God never forgets.
I have recently met with a hymn, in which I am
very much interested, which I copy for you, with the
hope that you will adopt the language as your own.
Just as I am, without one plea,
But that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou bidd'st me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come.
Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To thee, whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come.
Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
With fears within and foes without,
O Lamb of God, I come.
Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind,
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need, in thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come.
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 271
Just as I am, though so depraved,
So long by Satan's power enslaved,
To be by thee renewed and saved,
O Lamb of God, I come.
Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve,
Because thy promise I believe.
O Lamb of God, I come.
Just as I am thy love, unknown,
Has broken every barrier down :
Now to be thine, yea, thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come.
Remember, my dear son, that religion is something
between God and your own soul. Your friends can
advise you, but they can not compel you to take their
advice ; they pray for you, but they can not repent and
believe for you.
Give my love to all of our friends, but especially to
H. I hope you talk freely with her upon this great
subject ; and I advise you to talk with your pastor
also. And do not fail to write to me in the same con-
fiding manner which you have done, and thus add to
the happiness of
Your affectionate father.
This was the last letter whicli Mr. Safford ever wrote
to this son, except a note on business, in which he
remarks, " The date of my letter (October 30, 1855)
reminds me that I am threescore and three years old
to-day."
He was comforted by receiving evidence before his
death that God had heard his prayers, and blessed his
faithful efforts in behalf of this dear son ; and soon
272 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
after his father's death he made a public profession of
his faith in Christ.
The young men who were, in various ways, aided
by Mr. Saiford, as already mentioned, retained a grate-
ful respect and affection for the memory of their ben-
efactor, and have expressed, in numerous instances,
since his death, their sense of obligation to him.
From the very full testimonial of one of those who
was fer some months a member of his family, the fol-
lowing extracts are subjoined :
" It was in the year 1847 that I began to receive from
Mr. Safford and his family those practical expressions
of friendship and kindness which form a prominent
part of the experiences of my life.
" Having come to Boston through his invitation, he
secured for me almost immediately a pleasant and val-
uable situation, in which I remained for many years.
In every perplexity and trial, when I sought his coun-
sel, I found it to be wise and practical, and given with
evident marks of gratification that it had been sought.
After some years, when making an important change
in my business, I found his assistance valuable, en-
abling me to carry out some long-cherished plans in
reference to establishing myself in life ; and to the
present time I am daily experiencing the good results
of his influence exerted in my behalf, in matters of
business.
" The aid which Mr. Safford rendered to those who
regard him as their benefactor, was, I think, very
frequently, laborious aid ; it increased his own cares,
as well as expenses. Instead of sending-, he would go ;
he would plan, inspect, remove, arrange, load, unload.
FRIENDLY EFFORTS FOR YOUNG MEN. 273
I have seen him, in the latter years of his life, take off
his coat, and put his shoulder to the work, with a
cheerful energy which insured its speedy accomplish-
ment. This was accompanied by a delicate regard for
the feelings of those he helped a desire to make
them feel at ease. There was an ingenuity in his
kindness ; his cheerful smiles and quick pleasantries
making the recipient feel as if he was bestowing,
rather than receiving, the benefit.
" I was early impressed with Mr. Safford's kindness
in reproof. A faithful friend, he did not shun to give
admonition when it was needed. I well remember
an instance in my own experience, the occasion for
which might be charged equally to ill health and a
naturally indolent disposition. Calling me aside one
morning when I had been a few weeks in the situation
he had obtained for me, he said, ' I was talking with
Mr. B. yesterday about you ; he says he likes you very
well ; he thinks you are capable, and will give him
satisfaction ; but he says you are not quick enough,
don't step quick enough, don't run up and down stairs.
Now, when you were in the country, I have no doubt
you were as lively as any body ; but you notice people
in the city don't move as they do in the country ; every
one seems to be in a hurry, as if he had a great deal
to do. I wished just to mention this to you, so that
you might learn to step a little more briskly ; ' and
with a pleasant smile he bade me good morning.
" During the first six months of my residence in
Boston, I was, through invitation of Mr. and Mrs.
Safford, an inmate of their family. I have always
reverted with peculiar pleasure to this arrangement,
showing, as it did, their kind feelings toward myself
274 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
and relatives, saving me from the inconveniences at-
tending the scanty pay of a boy's ' first year,' shield-
ing me from the corruptions of a strange city, and
bringing to bear upon me the hallowed influences of
their own peaceful, Christian family."
BUSINESS AND POLITICAL LIFE. 275
CHAPTER XV.
BUSINESS AND POLITICAL LIFE.
Dissolution of Partnership. Proposal of new Connections. Acceptance of
them. Character as a Merchant. Member of the Legislature of Mas-
sachusetts. Affability. Peacemaker.
IN 1848 Mr. Safford made known to his partners in
business his intention to retire from the establishment.
Two months, however, had not passed before the re-
maining senior partner entreated him to return, saying
that he should leave himself if he did not. It was
with much difficulty that Mr. Safford persuaded him
that, as the connection had been dissolved, it was not
best to renew it. He assured him that it was wholly
to favor the interests of the other partners that he had
left, as he was not willing to share the profits, while he.
performed none of the labor, and bore scarcely any of
the responsibility.
As soon as it was known, and even before it was
announced, that he had retired, he received proposals
from respectable mercantile houses in the city to con-
nect himself with them. These he declined, regarding
it as a hazardous experiment for a person at his period
of life to enter into a new business of any kind.
At length the offer of a silent partnership, in a firm
at the head of which was a brother officer of Mount
Vernon church, was taken into serious and prayerful
276 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPFORD.
consideration. He thoroughly investigated all parts
of the business, the principles on which it was con-
ducted, and the existing state of their affairs. It was
his habit to acquaint Mrs. Saiford with all business
matters affecting her interests as well as his own, both
that he might have her opinion concerning them, and
that their prayers might be united for divine guidance.
This he regarded not only as " woman's rights," but
as his rights also. Accordingly, with her cordial ap-
probation, he accepted the proposals made to him, and
became a member of the house of Palmer & Batch-
elders. The history of this connection is related, in
part, in the following statement of Mr. Palmer :
" It gave us the most sincere pleasure to be able to
pay liberal dividends to Mr. Safford, for we could not
doubt that he became our partner as much to oblige
us as to promote his own interest. Indeed, I have
always traced the origin of his connection with our
firm to a circumstance which occurred some years
before, and which peculiarly exhibited the kindness of
his heart.
" On the death of a former partner, we were called
to pay out his capital at a time when it was peculiarly
disadvantageous to do so. Mr. Safford, on learning
the fact, (although we were not then on those familiar
terms which have existed since,) came in one day, and
made several inquiries as to how we were likely to get
on, and what terms of settlement we had made with
the estate of the deceased partner. A day or two after
he called again, and said, ' I did not ask those ques-
tions the other day from mere curiosity, or without a
motive. I have been thinking that it must have -been
at considerable sacrifice that you so speedily and hon-
BUSINESS AND POLITICAL LIFE. 277
orably settled up with the estate, and that possibly you
might need some assistance in carrying forward your
future plans of business. I have mentioned the sub-
ject to a Christian brother, and proposed that if he
would furnish you with five thousand dollars, I would
put in the same amount. He readily consented, and
now the ten thousand are at your service for five years,
without security, for simple interest.' This offer,
which was entirely unsolicited and unexpected, was
gratefully accepted ; and the disinterested friendship
it evinced induced an intimacy of business relations
which resulted, a few years afterward, in our partner-
ship, when the business which this generous loan had
increased would justify the employment of a still
larger capital. As this connection became from year
to year more profitable to brother Safford, I could but
regard it as a fulfillment of the promise, ' The liberal
soul shall be made fat ; and he that watereth shall be
watered also himself.' '
His connection with these gentlemen continued until
his death, seven years afterward. The oldest partner
was one of like spirit with himself, a " brother be-
loved ; " and toward the others he soon learned to
exercise a kind and fatherly friendship. At the close
of the first year, Mr. Saffbrd's share of the profits was
so large, that when he considered the two younger
partners had borne the burden and done the labor, in
which he had not participated, he, on receiving it,
passed over a thousand dollars into their hands.
" He was," says Mr. Palmer, " a merchant of liberal
and enterprising policy, clear in his perceptions, sound
in judgment, and conscientious in all his dealings. A
prominent trait of his business character was, the
24
278 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
carefulness of his examinations into a project before
making an engagement. All the bearings of an en-
terprise were duly considered before he would embark
in it; and often his keen foresight would discover
obstacles to success which escaped the vision of those
who had been longer on the post of observation than
himself. But when once committed to a course, he
never faltered, but met the responsibilities involved in
it fearlessly and promptly."
He regarded it as a remarkable favor of God that
he was thus furnished with the means for gratifying
his desire, to do good, more liberally than ever before,
after he gave up the care of business, and devoted
all his time to benevolent objects. This was unex-
pected to him ; but he trusted in the Lord, when he
saw, as he thought, the time had arrived for him to
make the change, and endeavored to do good, and
accordingly received the fulfillment of the promise,
" Thou shalt dwell in the land, and verily thou shaft
be fed."
Allusion has already been made to the fact that
Mr. Safford was at different times called by his fellow-
citizens to serve as a member of the legislature of the
state. The following brief statement of his character
in this capacity has been kindly furnished by a gentle-
man who, having served as chaplain in the same body,
is well qualified to speak on this subject :
" Deacon Safford was no politician. But he was
a patriot, and never shrunk from any responsibility
which the public necessities seemed to impose. He
was not ambitious of official rank, yet he accepted
such positions of civil trust as he felt he could con-
sistently fill, respectfully declining all besides. He
BUSINESS AND POLITICAL LIFE. 279
i
was urged by friends in high esteem to be a candidate
for mayor of the city of Boston, but, for reasons satis-
factory to himself, he declined all such overtures. In
the autumn of 1833, on his return from a journey, he
found he had been chosen, during his absence, a repre-
sentative to the General Court of his state. In 1835,
1836, and 1837, he was reflected to the same office.
In 1845 and 1846 he represented the county of Suf-
folk in the. Senate of his state, and in the session of
1846 he was chairman of the standing committee on
accounts. As a legislator he was modest, seldom speak-
ing, never at length ; yet he was ever found punctual
in his place. He always examined carefully every
subject requiring action, and voted as his intelligence
and conscience dictated, whether alone or with the
multitude. He was a very close observer of all that
occurred ; so that, with his characteristic good sense
and sound judgment, though a more than ordinary
silent, yet he was a more than ordinary efficient and
useful member of each house in its turn.
" But he did not content himself with exerting an
influence in this one direction alone. He labored in
1833, at the very commencement of his legislative
career, to secure the organization of a legislative tem-
perance society ; and very soon he had the joy of com-
plete success. His excellency, the governor, signed
the temperance pledge, in imitation of whose good
example many members of both houses signed it also ;
and a series of legislative temperance meetings in
the representatives' hall was inaugurated, which have
been continued at every session until the present
time.
" Still further true to his instincts as a Christian, in
280 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
1836 he invited all the members of both branches, who
were so disposed, to come on Saturday evening to his
house, for a season of prayer. And the meeting thus
begun was continued every week during that and
the session of 1837. Then, comparatively few of the
members of either house returned to their homes to
spend the Sabbath. This prayer meeting afforded a
delightful and useful mode of occupying Saturday
evenings, of which many availed themselves. It was
every way agreeable to him, and very pleasant to
them."
An incident occurred while Mr. Safford was in the
Senate which has been related to us to illustrate his
habitual courtesy and kindness toward all, without
distinction. A carpenter, who had a large family
depending upon his daily labor for support, was
without employment, and felt much depressed on
that account. He says, " As I was passing down Park
Street one day I was overtaken by Mr. Safford. He
saluted me in his usual pleasant manner, and then
observed, ' You look sad ; is business dull ? ' Finding
he had judged correctly, he immediately passed his arm
within mine, and drew from me a statement of my
affairs. He walked on, expressing interest and sym-
pathy, suggesting a course to me which he thought
would relieve me from my embarrassment, and prom-
ised to use his influence in my favor. It was in the
middle of the day, and I was in my working dress ;
it was in a public part of the city, and he was con-
stantly being saluted by his friends. I became very
uneasy, because I thought that I must be subjecting
him to mortification, and made more than one effort to
drop his arm. At length he paused, and, in a tone
BUSINESS AND POLITICAL LIFE. 281
of pleasantry, said, ' What is the matter ? Are you
ashamed to be seen walking with me ? '
Besides his services in the legislature, Mr. Safford
was often called to arbitrate in cases of difficulty be-
tween neighbors and friends, to settle estates, and to
advise in the adjustment of family differences. " He
was," says a ministerial friend, " early known as a
peacemaker. Being from principle and habit thorough
in investigation, naturally self-possessed and independ-
ent in his opinions, and withal so affectionate and
accessible, he easily secured the confidence he so pre-
eminently deserved, and which he never betrayed.
Patiently and attentively hearing the statements of all
sides in the controversy, he invited and secured the
confidence of each of the parties, and thus, when in
possession of all the facts, his clear, sound judgment
enabled him to draw the lines, and usually bring the
contending parties together.
" Such qualities fitted him for great usefulness and
great influence in ecclesiastical councils, where he was
frequently called. Few laymen or clergymen ever had
more influence in these bodies than he, when it seemed
to him some important principle was at issue and en-
dangered, for the rescue of which he ought to exert
himself. He talked less than most, but his utterances
usually carried conviction that few could produce or
resist.
" He was a member of an ecclesiastical council a
few years previous to his death, when an excommuni-
cated member complained that the church, under the
ruling of the pastor, had proceeded quite contrary to
the rules of Congregationalism, and had thus wrong-
fully cut him off. To sustain the complainant, who
24*
282 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
was evidently in the wrong, to say the least, would
implicate the pastor, who had as evidently gone quite
beyond his prerogatives. The testimony was full and
clear on both those points. The case was skillfully
managed on the part of the church and its pastor.
There was a full discussion by the council when by
themselves. By appointment, a former pastor of Dea-
con Safford prepared a result entirely exonerating the
minister, and made an earnest speech in its defense.
No one immediately replying, Deacon Safford arose,
and in a few fitting words expressed his high respect
for ministers of the gospel, and his great reluctance,
by word or vote, to cast even a seeming censure upon
any of them ; ' but truth,' he added, ' has higher
claims than they.' In a few forcible and plain sen-
tences he presented the case as it seemed to him, and
as it was in fact ; he gave the reasons why he could
not vote for the result as it had been presented ; and
closed by saying, if it was adopted, he should insist
upon having his protest entered upon the minutes of
the council, and that as much for the sake of the min-
istry as for the party now aggrieved. As soon as he
sat down, the author of the result, whispering to the
brother who was sitting near him, said, ' There is no
such thing as resisting Deacon Safford's common sense
logic.' Another result was quickly prepared, in ac-
cordance with the views Deacon Safford had expressed,
and it was at once unanimously adopted."
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 283
CHAPTER XVI.
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES.
Efforts to gather the Poor into Places of Worship. Elected President of
the City Missionary Society. Deacon Farnsworth's Statement. How
to preserve Health. Extracts from private Journal. " Deacon Safffcrd's
Party." Statement of Deacon Gushing. Member of the Prudential
Committee of the A. B. C. F. M. Rev. Mr. Treat's Statement. Di-
rector of the House of Industry. Old Ladies' Home, &c.
NOTWITHSTANDING the success which had attended the
enterprise of founding Mount Yernon Church, there
was one cherished object which Mr. Safford did not at
once see accomplished so fully as he wished. The
poor had not been gathered in. There were empty
seats in the Sabbath school, and also in the church,
which he earnestly desired should be filled by them.
He was not sure that the majority of the church would
approve of this," as the prevailing policy seemed to be
to gather such into mission schools by themselves. It
was at his own suggestion that a vote was taken by the
church on this subject, and found to be in favor of tho
measure. In this his heart rejoiced. Returning from
the meeting, he said, " Now wo will fill all our vacant
seats with the poor." Several young persons enlisted
in the undertaking. The mission circle at that time
were devoting their contributions to sustain labor for
the Grand Ligne mission, in Canada ; but they re-
solved to combine with it the clothing of poor children,
284 .MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
and the managers entered at once into the field. Mr.
Safford interested himself very much in these efforts,
engaging in them personally, becoming himself that
winter a true city missionary. Prom sixty to seventy
children were gathered into the Sabbath school, and a
number of the parents came to church. Often they
were seen seated upon the steps of the gallery pews,
all the seats being filled.*
As he looked around upon this pleasant sight, Mr.
Safford said, " Now I believe God will bless Mount
Yernon Church." He found, in his walks among the
poor this winter, five heads of families who were intem-
perate. These he persuaded to sign the temperance
pledge, and visited them repeatedly, often upon the
Sabbath, to encourage them to keep .the day holy.
Of twelve families thus brought to church, four of the
parents had long been drunkards. Among them was
a valuable engineer in a manufacturing establishment,
who had not before attended church for eleven years,
and for eighteen years had been in the habit of spend-
ing the Sabbath in drinking. Mr. Safford' s efforts
with this man resulted in his becoming permanently
temperate, and an habitual attendant' on divine wor-
ship, with his family, hiring a pew himself. The man
also induced his employer, and all his fellow- workmen,
several of whom, like himself, had been intemperate,
to sign the pledge.
Many of the poor children thus gathered were al-
lowed to come to Mr. Safford's house in the morning
* One Sabbath morning, a young Irish woman appeared in the
porch, with her baby in her arms. She insisted that the sexton
should take her to Mr. Safford's own pew. "Himself invited me;
indade he did."
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 285
of the Sabbath, to be washed and dressed ; aiid more
than a dozen of the rudest boys during the season
spent the intermission there, and were provided with
their dinner, to secure their attendance at church in
the afternoon. These children were from the very
lowest grade of society. At first, when in his house
they were noisy, and on being let out, on their way to
church, the boys would shout and whistle, and the
little girls would sing, some running on before him,
and some in the rear. In the school they did not
know how to behave properly ^ for they were wholly
uncivilized.
Mr. Safford's attention had never before been so thor-
oughly awakened to the duty of the churches toward
this class of people in our large towns and cities. He
could not approve the policy of erecting elegant houses
of worship, and then sitting down in them to enjoy
the blessed hopes and privileges of the gospel, while
the poor heathen at the door of these sanctuaries were
left to perish. Often did he express the fear that the
church was satisfying herself with contributing in
money for distant millions, for whose good others
were toiling. He deemed it a duty not only to semi
the gospel, but to take it also ourselves to the perishing
within our reach, wherever they were accessible.
In 1850 Mr. Safford was elected president of the
City Missionary Society of Boston, which office he held
until his death. He entered upon its duties with
great interest and diligence. His predecessor in it
Deacon Farnsworth says,
" My long acquaintance with him, extending back
to the organization of the Franklin Street Church, in
1835, has left upon my mind a deep impression of the
286 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
power of example. At the time Deacon Safford as-
sumed this office I saw a good deal of him, and talked
freely with him. I believe I was the first to suggest
him as a most suitable person for it, if he could be
induced to take the position. I well remember the
remark made to me by Mrs. Safford soon after his
acceptance of the office : ' I am greatly obliged to you
for getting my husband into business.' This remark
expressed what was emphatically true, viz., that with
Deacon Saiford the service of God was the business
of his life ; and to that simple fact, it appears to me,
we can attribute the unusually large amount of good
which he was enabled to accomplish. His connection
with the City Missionary Society was a most important
event. In this labor his whole soul was engaged, and
his prudent, judicious, beautifully symmetrical Chris-
tian character was fully and most favorably exhibited."
After entering upon these labors, he met one day in
the street a retired merchant, who took him by the
hand, and said, " Mr. Safford, how well and cheerful
you look ! You must be in perfect health." " I was
never in better health," he replied. " Will you tell
me," said the gentleman, " how it is that you keep
your health and spirits so good? What do you do
with yourself, now that you have no business ? / am
often at a loss what to do ; my time passes heavily, my
health suffers, and I frequently wish myself back in
my business again." Mr. Safford answered, " I was
never more pressed for time than I am now, and if you
will spend one day with me, you shall see what I do
with myself. There are thousands of poor, neglected
children in the city ; our missionaries are looking after
them, and I am now on my way to Kilby Street, to
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 287
receive the contributions in goods of some of our mer-
chants, to aid in clothing them, that they may attend
the day and Sunday schools. This is a specimen of
the employments which occupy my time in these days."
The following memoranda of the labors of a single
month, copied from his private record, will show more
fully the nature of these employments :
" March 7, 1850. Commenced a neighborhood
meeting among the colored people in May Street, as-
sisted by Deacon K. ; room full ; three appeared anx-
ious for their souls' salvation.
" 8th. Distributed tracts in West Margin Street.
Most of the inhabitants Roman Catholics ; all but two
received tracts ; saw the heads of all the families, and
had more or less conversation with all.
" 9th. Called on Mr. Samuel Lawrence, who sub-
scribed fifty dollars for city missions, and said he weuld
find employment for at least fifty boys, and as many
girls, from fourteen to twenty years of age.
" IQth. Induced a family of seven, including a
father, mother, and five children, to attend Bowdoin
Street Church and Sabbath school, after they had been
clothed by a company of ladies who met at our house
on Friday last.
" llth. Weather cold and clear ; visited Dr. C. in
the evening ; bought one share in Boston and Sand-
wich Glass Company, for Rev. Mr. H. ; par value, one
hundred dollars ; cost ninety-two dollars and a half.*
Mr. Safford was often employed by clergymen, as well as wid-
ows, minor children, domestics, and others, to invest for them their
288 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
" 15th. Found a family, consisting of a father,
mother, two sons, and three daughters, who arrived
here from Ireland about nine months since. All are
members of the Episcopal church, but being strangers,
had not found a house of worship where they could
have a seat.
" 16 th. Induced an intemperate man, who has a
wife and seven children, to sign a temperance pledge,
and found employment for him.
" Sunday, 1.7th. Went with the Episcopal family
found on Friday last to Christ's Church, in Salem
Street, and obtained a good pew for them, free of
expense, and gave them a letter to the rector of that
church. Also carried two children into the Bowdoin
school.
" ~L8th. In the evening attended a meeting at No. 6
North Charles Street ; sixteen present, in all ; most of
them do not attend church any where ; left the meet-
ing in charge of brothers B. and B., who will attend it
in future.
Spent the day. in collecting for the society,
and in writing.
" 20th. Spent a part of the day in getting subscrip-
tions for the City Missionary Society, and a part in vis-
iting the poor.
" 21st. Found an American family that did not
attend any church. They appeared thankful for the
offer of a pew, and agreed to go next Sabbath. Ap-
small funds ; and it was mentioned by him with much satisfaction,
near the close of his life, that only in a single case was any loss
incurred from these investments.
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 289
pointed a weekly evening meeting at Mr. Nixon's, five
houses back of 34 South Margin Street, Tuesday
evenings, at half past seven o'clock.
Spent the day in visiting and collecting. In
the evening, presided at the church meeting, the pastor
being sick.
" 23d. Snow storm all day ; collected a hundred
and fifty dollars from a friend of missions."
The officers of the City Missionary Society included
all the Trinitarian Congregational pastors in the city,
and one layman from each of their churches. To
secure their attendance, and keep alive their interest
in the society, every February during the six years of
Mr. Saffbrd's connection with it, he invited them, with
their wives, to spend an evening at his house. This
was the annual meeting of the board of managers for
organization, choice of committees, and transaction of
other business.
While the- gentlemen were thus engaged, the ladies
held a meeting for prayer, in another apartment.
After a year or two, the missionaries in the employ-
ment of the board were also invited to be present, and
numerous other guests who were interested, or whom
Mr. Saffbrd desired to interest in the cause.
After the business and the prayer meeting, a short
time was given for social conversation ; the serving of
supper followed ; and then the guests all assembled in
the parlors, and listened to short statements from some
of the missionaries, intermingled witli addresses from
others, and the exercises closed with united praise and
prayer. This was called " Mr. Snffonfs party"
25
290 MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
A fuller account of the society, and of Mr. Safford's
connection with it, has been kindly furnished by a
gentleman who was associated with him in this work.
" This society was organized in 1816, under the
name of ' The Boston Society for the Religious and
Moral Instruction of the Poor.' It had been very effi-
cient in its efforts for the spiritual welfare of the city,
in the organization of Sabbath schools, the distribution
of tracts, sustaining preaching for sailors, and chapels
for the poor, and in kindred labors ; but for several
years its operations had been limited, its policy had
been frequently changed, and the interest of the
churches in its work had greatly diminished.
" The election of Mr. Safford to its presidency
marked a new era in its history. He devoted himself
with assiduity and energy to the promotion of its in-
terests, and under his direction its operations were
greatly extended, and its efficiency increased beyond
that of any former period. The receipts of the society
rose from twenty-eight hundred to eighty-five hundred
dollars per annum, and the number of missionaries
employed, from two to twenty-two.
" He was remarkable for order and system in all his
personal affairs, and he saw at once that these were
especially necessary in extended missionary efforts.
The fields of labor, the results sought to be secured,
and the instruments and influences to be used, were
clearly defined. Books of record and forms of reports
were introduced, so that the labors of the missionaries,
properly classified, might be known from month to
month ; and the missionaries were thus made to feel
their responsibility, not only to God, but to the society
under whose direction they labored. All the opera-
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 291
tions of the society were brought under strict and con-
stant supervision.
" Perhaps the most important measure secured by
his influence was the employment of female mission-
aries. He saw at once that devoted, pious women
would exert an influence for good, especially over
females and children, in many families where male
missionaries would not be admitted, or, being admitted,
would fail to secure the confidence of those visited ;
that the gentleness and sympathy of woman peculiarly
fitted her to visit the sick and suffering poor. The
results have proved the wisdom of the measure. Two
thirds of the missionaries now employed by this soci-
ety are females, and its recent reports show that much
of its success results from their labors.
" There was one strong desire of his heart which he
failed to secure the union of all evangelical Chris-
tians in this good work. He always felt that there
should be nothing sectarian in its character. The
society, at his suggestion, employed missionaries of
different denominations, and his instructions, to them,
as to the manner and spirit in which they should pros-
ecute their work, were always remarkable for their
catholicity.* He spent much time in laboring to
induce the evangelical churches of different denomina-
* Evidence of his truly catholic spirit is seen in an effort he made
as early as 1834. A young man, who was preparing for the ministry
in the Baptist Theological Seminary at Newton, was in the habit of
coming into Boston on Saturday, and superintending a Sunday
school in Broad Street, composed of Irish Roman Catholic children.
His labors attracted the attention of Mr. Safford, and he said, " That
young man must be brought into the city ; he has the right spirit,
and is just the man for a city missionary." lie addressed a note to
292 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
tions to unite as one in missionary operations among
the poor and neglected classes ; but in this he was not
successful. Only one church was induced to unite
with this society before his death, though another has
since followed its example. If any man could have
secured such a union, it was Mr. Safford ; for none ever
possessed more fully the confidence and affection of
Christians of all denominations ; but the time had not
yet come. He always rejoiced in the belief that it
was coming.
" His heart and his hand were always open for the
poor, and he never turned a deaf ear to the tales of
suffering and sorrow which the missionaries brought
to his notice. Their ' poor's purse ' was seldom empty,
for he had such influence in the community, without
regard to sect, that men gave liberally when he told
them of want and destitution. All believed that- what-
ever went through his hand would be well bestowed,
and men who had little sympathy with his religious
views confided in him as their almoner, and did
not doubt that others, under his direction, must be
discreet.
him, asking him whether, when his course in the Seminary should be
finished, he would accept the position, provided his support could be
secured to him. This letter he showed to a friend, who took the hint
and raised a subscription. Mr. H. came ; continued his labors in
Broad Street, opened another school in Commercial Street, out of
which grew the Baptist Bethel, and a third in Chambers Street, which
originated a church, of which he became the pastor, containing more
than three hundred members, who were nearly all converted under
his ministry. When directing the efforts of the missionaries, Mr.
Safford always desired them to gather the families into the nearest
evangelical church which would receive them, without regard to the
denomination.
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 293
" He met with the missionaries, from week to week,
for prayer and mutual counsel. He sympathized with
them in their difficulties and trials, rejoiced with them
in their successes, and commended them and the ob-
jects of their labor to God in fervent prayer. They
loved him as a brother, and respected him as a father.
His benignant countenance, the warm grasp of his
hand, and words of cheerful greeting, were as a cor-
dial, refreshing them when weary and worn with care
and labor ; and they went from his presence with re-
newed courage and love for* the work of visiting the
poor, relieving their sufferings, and pointing them to
Him who, * though lie was rich, for their sakes became
poor, that they through his poverty might be rich.' '
In 1852 Mr. Safford was elected a member of the
prudential committee of the American Board of Com-
missioners for Foreign Missions, and continued as such
till his death. Of his character and services in this
capacity, Rev. Mr. Treat, one of the secretaries, writes
as follows :
" No one can expect to reach the highest point of
usefulness as a member of the prudential committee,
till he has been an attendant upon its meetings for a
number of years. The questions which we are called
to consider* and decide have certain relations, for
the most part, to other questions which have gone
before. There is a history of facts, as also a history
of principles, which needs to be mastered in order to
the formation of a reliable judgment. Deacon Safford
felt this difficulty, as others had felt it, and waited
patiently for the knowledge that should enable him to
take a more active part in our deliberations.
" His opinions were becoming inoro and more val-
294 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SA'FFORD.
liable every year, and, had he enjoyed the long train-
ing of some of his associates, he would have been very
useful. If I were to specify the mental attribute
which seemed to me most conspicuous, I should say
that it was ' common sense.' His manner of looking
at questions was simple and practical. He was never
hasty in his judgments ; on the contrary, in cases
which he did not fully understand, as he supposed, he
was sure to say but little. But when he had satis-
fied himself, after dire reflection, there was no hes-
itancy. Nothing, I am sure, could have induced him
to deviate from the path of rectitude.
" In justice to Deacon Safford, it should be stated
that he was always prompt, always courteous, always
ready to do whatever was assigned to him. Our re-
membrance of him is exceedingly pleasant. There is
great need of just such men in all our churches, as
well as in our benevolent organizations. Would that
there were more of them."
Mr. Safford's connection with this committee awa-
kened in him feelings of strong attachment and deep
sympathy for the members of the board. He often
spoke of the weight of responsibility devolving upon
them, the great variety of matter coining before them
in their weekly sessions, to which they gave so freely
their time and absorbing attention, and " all for love,
and nothing for reward." He used to say, " How little
do those who contribute only their money to this cause
know commonly of the perplexing and harassing ques-
tions to be decided by this committee ! " Especially
was his mind impressed, as he observed the weight of
care and anxiety connected with the office of the sec-
retaries. His feelings toward the senior secretary
CONNECTION WITH BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES. 295
are indicated iiTthe following letter written by him
while in Europe, in view of an effort then in progress
for securing to that officer the unembarrassed owner-
ship of his house, which enterprise, through the favor
of Providence, was completely successful. The letter
was addressed to Henry Hill, Esq., Boston.
MILAN, September 7, 1855.
MY DEAR BROTHER : I am glad to learn that some
effort is making for the payment of Dr. Anderson's
debt, [for his house.] When I consider how long,
how steadily, how earnestly, how ably, and ho*w suc-
cessfully he has labored to carry out the last expressed
desire of our adorable Saviour ; how he has ever been
willing " to spend and be spent " that the gospel might
be preached to the heathen ; and when I think what
his talents might have commanded in some other
sphere, I agree fully in the opinion that the whole debt
of four thousand dollars might and should be paid by
the friends of Dr. Anderson ; and it should be done
without much delay, that he may have the comfort of
thinking, if he should be taken away by death, that
his family would not be left without a shelter. It does
appear to me that if some judicious, proper person
would assist you in this matter, it might be done in a
few weeks, and in a way not materially to affect other
charitable objects. To encourage a speedy effort, I
will pay one hundred dollars for each thousand that
shall be subscribed for this object before January next,
an<J I do sincerely hope the whole amount will be
raised. When any sum becomes due from me on the
conditions above named, you may call on Deacon
Palmer for the money, and show him this letter, which
296 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
will be a sufficient order on him for the amount thus
due. Yours truly,
DANIEL SAFFORD.
Besides his connection with these institutions of be-
nevolence, he was, for several years, a director of the
House of Industry, and a member, and one of the
vice presidents,- of the board of directors of the Insti-
tution for Aged and Indigent Females, to which he
had contributed five hundred dollars. He was also
for many years a director of the Penitent Females'
Refuge, and connected, more or less intimately, with
various other charitable societies for the relief of the
needy, and the promotion of the cause of the Re-
deemer
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 297
CHAPTER XVII.
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH.
Impaired Health.-^ Journey to the Western States. To Canada. With
Mrs. Reid, to Rhode Island. Second Voyage to Europe. Liverpool.
Chester. Dublin. Cork. Lakes of Killarney. Belfast. Glasgow.
Edinburgh. The Highlands. London. Paris. Brussels. Aix.
The Rhine. Frankfort. The Salt Mines. Munich Through Swit-
zerland to Italy. Milan. Verona. Venice. Florence. Leghorn.
Rome. Naples. Marseilles. Homeward Voyage.
AFTER Mr. Safford had spent three successive win-
ters in the legislature, his health was found to be much
impaired. The difficulty in his heart, from which he
had suffered more or less for many years, had increased
to an alarming degree, owing, it was thought, to pro-
tracted sittings in a crowded house, without proper
ventilation, it being previous to the enlargement of the
session chamber. His physician advised that he should
spend his summers thereafter in traveling, as the means
most likely to prolong his life. Of this he had hereto-
fore done little, except for purposes of business. His
occupations had been too numerous, and his interest
in them too deep, to permit it. He would, indeed,
have enjoyed journeying very much ; but before he
could decide thus to spend time and money, there
must be some object out of himself more weighty than
his own gratification. He often said, " I should never
leave Boston in the summer, or make any change, on
my own account."
298 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
Acting under this advice of his physician, he now
planned a journey for health, yet blending with it
efforts for the benefit of others. Miss Lyon, of the
Mount Holyoke Female Seminary, was at this time
greatly worn, both in body and ;nmd, and in need of
the relaxation of a journey ; and he desired also to
visit a relative in the west, who was reduced'in circum-
stances, and had not been heard from for a long time.
Accordingly, at his invitation, Miss Lyon accompanied
him and Mrs. Safford, by way of Niagara Falls, as far
as Ohio, where she stopped with a brother. After much
inquiry, Mr. and Mrs. Safford found their lost relative
in the wilderness of Michigan, in a condition to greatly
need their advice and aid. He accordingly added this
family to the many already dependent upon him ; pur-
chased a house the use of which he gave them free of
rent, and during the remaining years of his life was
a father to them, taking afterward several journeys on
their account. At this time he passed through the
States of Michigan and Illinois by stage coach as far as
Quincy, then down the Mississippi to St. Louis, and
from thence to Guyandotte, and through the State of
Virginia, to "Washington. His health was much ben-
efited by this journey of several thousand miles, occu-
pying more than two months.
The next summer he visited Canada, spending two
or three weeks in the mission at Grand Ligne, and
encouraging the hearts and strengthening the hands
of the missionary laborers in that field. In 1844
the health of his sister-in-law, Mrs. Reid, who had
been a very devoted Christian woman, and, as a min-
ister's wife, indefatigable in her endeavors for the good
of others, was found to be rapidly declining. He
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 299
had little hope of a permanent restoration, but ear-
nestly desired to do what he could to render her re-'
mainiiig days as comfortable as possible ; and this
summer he planned his journey with reference to her,
inviting her and her son to accompany him at his own
expense ; and after her return, hearing that her pros-
pect of recovery was still diminishing, he took a jour-
ney in his chaise to Tiverton, Rhode Island, then the
place of her residence, provided a nurse for her, and
continued his kind attentions till her death in the Feb-
ruary following.
In 1846, as already recounted, he accompanied his
pastor, Dr. Kirk, to Europe, as a delegate to the
World's Evangelical Alliance.
In 1853 he again crossed the Atlantic, with his wife,
whose health was delicate, and who, it was hoped,
might be benefited by the voyage. Some of the par-
ticulars of it are subjoined, taken mostly from his
journal and letters.
Monday, May ll//*, 1853. Left, in steamer Can-
ada, for Liverpool, with Mrs. Safford. The weather
on Wednesday and Thursday was mild and pleasant,
and the sea uncommonly smooth. At night a thick
fog coming up delayed our arrival at Halifax until six
A. M. on Friday. During the four or five days fol-
lowing the weather was cold and stormy. On the 18th,
weather clear, but not cold, so that we were able to
remain on deck. During the greater part of the pas-
sage, however, many of the gentlemen, and most of
the ladies, were seasick ; many, including Mrs. Saffbrd,
being confined to the cabin. I have not been sick my-
self, although we had at one time a heavy blow from
300 MEMOIR OP DANIEL "SAFFORD.
the south-west, which tossed the vessel about like an
egg shell. On the whole, the passage was a more fa-
vorable one than the former.
We arrived at Liverpool Dock at ten o'clock on
Sunday morning, eleven days from Boston. At noon,
found ourselves most comfortably established in Mrs.
Blodgett's excellent boarding-house. As it was too
late for the morning service, we rested until evening,
when we attended the church of Dr. Raffles. A col-
lection was taken for the Liverpool Town Missionary
Society, which employs twenty-four lay missionaries, in
a manner similar to the Boston society.
23d. Walked about the town, and were much
pleased with the cleanliness of the streets and the gen-'
eral order which prevailed, as well as with the public
buildings, and many of the warehouses, especially
those in Bold Street. After dinner, Mr. and Mrs. J.
called with their carriage, and gave us a delightful
drive of some fifteen miles about the suburbs, through
a country in the highest state of cultivation, and hav-
ing many splendid residences.
25A. Left for Dublin at ten A. M., via Chester,
Bangor, and Holyhead. Stopped a few hours at Ches-
ter, an old walled city of thirty thousand inhabitants.
Visited the cathedral, nearly eight hundred years old.
Portions of it had crumbled to ruins, and were re-
paired about eighty years ago. A part of the original
walls are still standing, though probably not a particle
of the original surface is left. St v John's Church, as
appears from an inscription on the wall, was built A. D.
689, and is now, therefore, eleven hundred and sixty-
three years old. Much of the building is in ruins,
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 301
though a portion has been repaired, and is used as a
place of worship. At Bangor, visited the suspension
and tubular bridges across the Menai Straits. Each
span is four hundred feet in length, and more than
one hundred feet above high water. Visited*Coiiway
and Penrhyn Castles, and the Penrhyn slate quarry,
where three thousand hands are employed. I was
very much interested in it. Left Bangor on Thursday,
at five P. M., and arrived at Dublin, by steamer from
Holyhead, at twelve o'clock the same night.
Dublin, 26th. During the day looked about the
town, and in the evening attended a social meeting of
the Evangelical Alliance, where about two hundred
ladies and gentlemen were assembled from different
countries. After a cup of tea and some plain cake,
the evening was passed in devotional exercises, familiar
conversation, and hearing the statements of persons
from other lands, some of whom are visiting Dublin
on account of the great Exhibition, which is just
opened. The Rev. Mr. Roussel, of Paris, was present,
and related what had been done there. Two gentle-
men from Scotland spoke, together with myself. I
gave some account of the City Missionary Society, in
Boston, which awakened much interest, especially in
reference to the Irish Roman Catholics, and the em-
ployment of women in the work, which was a new fea-
ture to them. Having been deprived of the social
meetings of the church for some weeks, it was like a
green spot in the desert thus to meet with some two
hundred warm-hearted Christians of different denom-
inations r and to join with them in singing the hymn,
" There is a land of pure delight," &c.
26
302 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
2Sth. Made an excursion through County Wicklow,
where much of the scenery is beautiful beyond de-
scription. Visited Bray, Glenmore, Glen of the
Downs, Dargle, &c. Returning, took tea and passed
the evening with Rev. Mr. King, meeting Mr. Roussel,
of Paris, and others.
Sabbath, *2&th. At twelve o'clock went to the Rev.
Dr. Elkins' Independent Church, and, upon invitation,
partook of the Lord's supper. Our names were pub-
licly announced, and we were welcomed. The church
to which we belonged, and our pastor, were particularly
remembered in prayer ; the services were about three
hours long ; preaching extemporaneous, and very good.
Started by railway for Cork, one hundred
and sixty-five miles, through the counties of Kildare,
Queen's, Kilkenny, and Limerick, observing on our
way many ruins of castles, towers, churches, and other
objects of interest. Some of the round towers are
supposed to be more than two thousand years old.
One, from one hundred to one hundred and fifty feet
high, appears to be in perfect order and preservation.
The land in the south of Ireland is generally very
good much better than in the northern part ; but in
some large districts, it is lying waste, or nearly so.
The mud houses, in which all of the poorer class live,
are usually without windows, or any light, except what
may come through the open door. Many are fallen
down, and their inhabitants gone to America or to the
poorhouses.
In Cork, I visited the County Jail, Lunatic Asylum,
Ragged Industrial School, and Poorhouse, all of
which are objects of much interest. In the latter are
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 303
more than four thousand persons, many of whom are
the most horrible and distressed objects I have ever
seen. In the hospital there are seventeen hundred
persons, with all manner of diseases, and some dying
almost hourly.
The country around Cork is most beautiful. There
are many fine residences, the grounds about which are
enchanting. Americans are evidently much respected
and honored by Irish gentlemen and ladies. Our own
treatment in Cork is in proof. We went without let-
ters of introduction to any one ; we stopped at the
Imperial Hotel, kept by a Scotch lady, who had gone
to London, leaving in charge a daughter, a very in-
teresting and intelligent lady. We inquired of her
about the Independent and Presbyterian Churches and
pastors. Learning we were from America, she invited
us to take seats in her carriage after dinner, drive
about the city, and call on her pastor, of the Presbyte-
rian Church, which we readily accepted. When we
came out from dinner, we found the minister of the
Independent Church, and one of his deacons, waiting
to see us. The deacon said his family were expecting
us to take tea with them, a little out of the city, and
would suit our convenience as to the hour. This we
agreed to do at seven o'clock. On arriving at the gate,
which was opened by the porter, we drove through a
circuitous road, shaded by trees, to his mansion.
After tea, family worship, and two or three hours of
pleasant conversation, and some music from the daugh-
ter, we were accompanied by the pastor to our hotel.
On leaving us, he said we were expected to breakfast
with Deacon McMullen (another of his deacons) at
nine o'clock the next morning, and he would call for
MEMOIR OF DANIEL S AFFORD.
us. Accordingly, at the time appointed, he came, and
walked with us about a mile and a half to the house
of Deacon M. Most of the way was shaded by a thick
row of trees on either side, and on one a beautiful
stream of water, clear as crystal. We ascended the
side of the hill, which runs the whole length of the
city, to the deacon's house, from which we had a fine
view, both of the city and surrounding country. Here
we were very cordially received by the family, and two
mothers in Israel, who had been invited there. After
breakfast, family worship, and about two hours of
familiar conversation, most of which had a religious
tendency, and which made us feel much at home, we
were told the carriage was at the door, and we were in-
vited to ride with the deacon to Blarney Castle, which
we explored with great interest, and returned in time
for dinner with them at five o'clock. After this we
went to the chapel, and heard the Rev. Mr. Henderson
preach his usual weekly lecture an excellent extem-
poraneous discourse. After the lecture, we were in-
vited to take tea at the house of two maiden ladies,
whom I shall call Martha and Mary. Here we found
the pastor, deacons, and other members of the church,
and some Episcopalians and Presbyterians, to the num-
ber of forty or fifty, in a very large room. The good
ladies were very particular to place their pastor at one
end of the room and myself at the other, and then
he began to question me about our church, social and
public meetings, how we admitted members, necessary
qualifications, &c., and all about our charitable insti-
tutions and missionary operations, all of which kept
me talking until eleven o'clock. The idea of female
prayer meetings was new to them. They were so
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 305
much interested, that, just before we left Cork, sev-
eral ladies came to our rooms at the hotel, and com-
menced a prayer meeting, which they intended to
continue.
Wednesday, June 1. We accepted an invitation
from our landlady to breakfast in her private parlor ;
after which, with a very agreeable party of eight per-
sons, including the pastor and his wife, and Deacon
and Mrs. McMullen, we took an excursion down the
river to Queenstown, which has one of the best har-
bors in the world. Along the banks of the river, and
shores of the harbor, the scenery was very beautiful.
In Cork, we visited the Ragged Industrial School.
The children are, or were, mostly Roman Catholic ;
some have no homes, but sleep in the streets or yards,
and most are but little better off. The teacher said
most of the boys were pickpockets. They have clean
hands and faces, but their clothes are ragged. They
seem to be attentive, and to be getting a good knowl-
edge of the Bible, which is read to them by the teach-
ers, a few verses at a time, explained, and then ques-
tions asked. The school is supported by a society, at
an expense of about eight hundred dollars per an-
num. When it was first opened, the Roman Catholic
priests came in front of the building, and cursed the
school and all who attended it, and large boys came
with clubs, to beat the boys and girls; but the
school was defended by the police, and now has rest
and quiet.
The county Jail is considered in this country a
model institution, and in neatness and order is quite
equal to any prison that I ever saw. Discipline, very
20*
306 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
good, without much severity ; inmates, about six hun-
dred; they sleep in separate cells, and work in sep-
arate apartments. They grind their own corn, and
make their own clothing from the raw material, as in
the workhouse.
%d. After dinner, left by railway, and at seven ar-
rived at the Victoria Hotel, situated upon the shore of
the lower and larger of the lakes of Killarney.
3e?. Took a carriage and rode eight miles into the
great gap or gorge of the mountains, surrounded by
scenery the most wild and romantic. We were con-
stantly assailed by beggars, of all ages and descriptions,
and frequently by women and large girls, with a bottle
of goat's milk, and another of " mountain dew "
(whisky) for sale. In several places, our guide blew
his bugle, the echo of which among the mountains
surpassed any thing I ever heard, of the kind. In
several places, small cannon were discharged for the
sake of the echo. After leaving the carriage, we
walked about six miles through the gorge of the
mountain, to the head of the upper lake, where a large
four-oared row boat, which had been sent from our
hotel, was in waiting with our lunch, which we took
upon one of the numerous islands with which these
lakes abound. We were then rowed down about
twelve miles, through the upper, middle, and lower
lakes, among islands surrounded by mountains, some
of them more than a thousand feet high, and nearly
perpendicular. Upon their sides many eagles have
built their nests and rear their young. After return-
ing to our hotel, we rode about four miles to the ruins
of Muckross Abbey.
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 307
4th. Left Killarney at nine, and arrived at Dublin
at six P. M.
bth. Went to Independent Chapel, and heard a
Welsh preacher. Dined with Mr. King, Mr. Roussel
being still there.
6th. Arrived at Belfast at four P. M. After din-
ner visited Queen's College, and the Botanic Garden,
which is very beautiful ; also Mulholland's Linen
Spinning Mills, and the Ragged Industrial School,
where were about one hundred girls, poor and ragged,
some employed in making fine lace, under the instruc-
tion of a lady teacher from Belgium.
Slh. Arrived this morning at Glasgow, and took
rooms at Queen's Hotel ; visited the Cemetery, Cathe-
dral, <fec.
9th. At half past six A. M. left Glasgow for the
lakes and Highlands of Scotland ; passed down the
Clyde nine miles, then by railway to Loch Lomond,
then by steamer about twenty-five miles up the lake,
passing many beautiful islands. On landing, we walked
for half a mile up a hill too steep for a carriage, then
taking a mountain vehicle, rode about five miles,
through a wild and almost uninhabited mountain
country, rising higher and higher to the end of Loch
Katrine or Robens, and stopped at the Trosachs.
1.0th. At five o'clock in the morning left for Cal-
lender, on the Loch Denethan, and passing Donne
Castle and many objects of interest, at half past ten
o'clock arrived at Stirling. Here we visited the
castle where King James was secreted when an infant,
308 MEMOIB OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
John Knox's pulpit, the room where James II. mur-
dered William, Earl of Douglas, and drove to Ban-
nockburn, and saw where the standard of Bruce was
planted. We left Stirling in the afternoon, and ar-
riv^d by steamer at Edinburgh this evening.
Sunday r , 12A. Rain all day ; in the morning at-
tended Dr. Alexander's church, (Independent ;) in the
afternoon went to Dr. Candlish's Free Presbyterian
Church, and heard him preach to a large and very
attentive audience. His voice, manner, and pronun-
ciation were so peculiar, that I found it very difficult to
understand enough to keep the run of his discourse ;
but from what I could understand, I should think it
was a very spiritual, earnest, and faithful sermon.
At half past six o'clock went to St. George's Pres-
byterian Church, and heard Dr. Malan, of Geneva.
His voice was strong and clear, and his manner com-
manding.
Liverpool, June 17. We are now awaiting the ar-
rival of our son and our pastor, who are on the way to
join "us in our tour on the continent. We have visited
some of the most wild and romantic parts of England,
Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, and have experienced
many varieties of traveling, from the ocean steamer to
the lake row boat, and from the mail coacli of England
to the one-horse car of Ireland, and sometimes went
on foot where no carriage could pass. Although Mrs.
Safford has often been much fatigued, I think the
variety of air, exercise, and scenery, with the many
objects of interest we have visited, has given much
pleasure and been a decided benefit to her.
19//t. The Europa arrived yesterday evening, and
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 309
our friends have joined us. We walked this morning
to the Dingle, and heard an excellent sermon from the
Rev. Dr. McNeal, and in the evening attended Dr.
Raffles' church. A striking peculiarity here at this
season is the long twilight. At nine o'clock in the
evening we could see to read as well as at any other
time of the day.
Left London at eight A. M., and arrived at
Paris at eleven o'clock in the evening. Took a suit
of rooms at the Hotel Meurice, consisting of parlor,
three bed rooms, and dining rooms. Price, twelve
francs per day. The rooms are well fiuyiished, but
the floors have no carpets ; they are of dark wood,
kept well waxed. This process of waxing is performed
by persons sliding about with brushes attached to their
feet. It somewhat resembles skating, but is decidedly
more laborious.
Sunday, July 3. Attended church, morning and
evening, at the Methodist Episcopal Church ; services
in English ; partook of the sacrament with the church,
and passed the remainder of the day at home ; read
again " Christ is all," with a new interest.
Monday, IWi. The past few days were spent in
viewing the many objects of interest with which Paris
abounds, and in making various purchases. The
weather has been very warm. We obtained some light
French traveling trunks, and left our heavier luggage
at the hotel until our return. Left Paris by railway
this morning, and arrived at Brussels at half past
nine this evening. We are at the Hotel Bollevue, an
excellent house, witli a public square in front, and a
310 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
large park in rear, with fine trees and walks, and a
pond containing thousands of goldfish.
Antwerp, ~L2th. This morning we drove to the field
of Waterloo, about twelve miles from Brussels, of
which we made a thorough examination with maps
and guides. Returned to town in time to visit a lace
factory, and the cathedral, and to take the five o'clock
train for this place.
13A. Drove about the city ; looked at the docks
and public works ; saw Mount Calvary, built princi-
pally of cinders set in cement ; here are groups of
men and wt>men, of life size, represented as in purga-
tory, and surrounded by red and yellow painted flames.
They are inclosed by iron gratings, and have the most
distressed and imploring countenances. Near by are
money boxes. Visited the cathedral, in which is a
curious pulpit, having beneath it a boat, with net, and
the remarkable draught of fishes. Saw Rubens' great
painting of the Descent from the Cross. Left by rail-
way, at five o'clock, for Aix-la-Chapelle, where we ar-
rived at nine in the evening.
14^A. We find here (Aix) a great gathering of
Catholics, to witness the septennial display of relics,
including the swaddling clothes, the garments in
which Christ was laid out, John the Baptist's leathern
girdle, and many others, equally valuable. These we
saw exhibited from the top of the cathedral. The
streets and houses in the vicinity were crowded with
people. The exhibition is continued during fourteen
days. Drove to Louisberg, a beautiful place on the
top of a high hill, from which we had a fine view.
Left by railway in the afternoon for Cologne, where
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 311
we arrived in time to visit the cathedral, which has
been eight hundred years in building, to buy a box of
Cologne water, and to inhale so great a variety and
degree of the charming odors of that fragrant city
that we were quite ready for the early morning train
for Bonn, a distance of forty miles. Here we took a
small steamer for the voyage up the Rhine.
16//J. Railway from Castel to Frankfort on the
Maine ; drove about the latter city ; saw the birthplace
of the Rothschilds, and the present residence of one
of them, who is eighty-seven years old, and whom we
saw sitting at the window ; saw also two of the four
villas which he has in the suburbs of the city. Visited
the cemetery, and the hall where the emperors dine
after their coronation ; here are portraits of all the
emperors of Germany. In the course of our drive we
stopped at a large farm house, where we had a very
German lunch, and succeeded in enjoying ourselves
highly, although neither party had any very distinct
comprehension of the remarks of the other. At five
o'clock P. M. left by railway for Leipsic ; but finding
that we should encroach upon the Sabbath, we left the
train at eleven in the evening at Gunterhausen, where,
contrary to our expectation, we found an excellent
hotel. It stands quite alone, far from any town, but
is pleasantly situated, in an elevated position.
Sunday, llth. Walked two or three miles through
the fields to a little village, and attended a German
Reformed church ; after which we visited a number of
families in their houses, which are very dark and
comfortless ; spinning wheels were plentiful. The
people examined us as if we were curious specimens
312 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
in natural history ; they seemed very glad to see us,
and wanted us to stop and take some coffee.
18^. Left Gunterhausen at eight o'clock ; passed
the castle in which Luther was confined ; stopped at
Erfurth ; visited the monastery in which Luther was
converted ; saw his cell, the walls of which were cov-
ered with his writing ; also the mark, on the wall, of
the inkstand which he threw at the devil, and the ink-
stand itself. Saw his Bible, the margin of which was
marked with his notes, and those of Melancthon and
other reformers. Erfurth is the most disagreeable
town we have met, and the hotel wretched ; our dinner
made an impression never to be effaced.
Dresden, 21st. This is a charming city of one hun-
dred thousand inhabitants, full of objects of interest.
It contains a beautiful garden, which is illuminated at
night, where fine music may be heard. There is a
collection of jewels, which I am informed is the most
valuable known to exist in the world ; among them
are blue, green, and white diamonds in abundance ;
also, a celebrated pink diamond ; there are two watches,
set in finger rings, and, though so small, they will run
eight days without winding, and keep correct time.
22d. Left Dresden at two o'clock P. M., by rail, for
Prague. At Bodenbach, where we entered the Aus-
trian dominions, passports were called for, and, in
some cases, pockets examined and letters read. We
observed a young lady traveling with us, who seemed
interested in our conversation. Some remark was
made to her, to which she responded. She was the
only one of her party who understood English. After
a time the conversation took a religious turn. She
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 313
had read Uncle Tom's Cabin, and said she was tired
of forms and ceremonies, and wanted a religion like
that of Uncle Tom a religion of the heart, of peace
and love. She had never seen a Bible, meaning the
New Testament; had endeavored to find one, but
could not : we asked her to call at our hotel in Prague,
where she resided, she was a German Swiss, and
with the aid of a Protestant minister we found a Ger-
man Bible ; but when she saw it she looked disap-
pointed, and, after a little while, said she could never
keep so large a book ; that she was watched when she
entered the hotel, and, even if she should succeed in
getting it home, her parents would not allow her to
keep it ; she had hoped it would be a little book, and
in English, so that it could lie about with other books,
and no one would know what it was. "We gave her
Clark's Selection of Promises, and some tracts. She
appeared very thankful, and quite surprised that they
should be furnished to a stranger, and compensation
refused. We afterward succeeded in putting her in
the way of obtaining a New Testament, which she
said a friend would keep locked up for her, and let her
come to her house and read.
Prague , 25th. We passed the Sabbath here, and
attended a Lutheran church ; the service seemed a
sort of compromise between Catholic and Protestant.
About one half of the congregation were soldiers, and
the rest looked depressed and miserable. We were
informed that the people are taxed about thirty per
cent, of their income. We found government officers
in and all about the hotels ; our passports were called
for two or three times a day, and we were told that
314 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
all our movements were closely watched. Beggars
abounded.
Salzburg; August 2. After remaining a few days
at Vienna, we passed up the Danube two hundred and
fifty miles to Lintz, and thence by horse railway to
Gmiinden, where we spent the Sabbath. Our trunks
were taken to our rooms by women porters, who do all
the heavy work, while the men make beds, do light
housework, when they do any thing, and, the rest of
the time, smoke pipes and drink beer. On Monday,
took a steamer ten miles to the end of Lake Gmun-
den, then a private carriage to Ischel, where we hired
a convenient traveling vehicle for this place. On the
way, we stopped for the night at the post house of the
little mountain village of St. Gilgen. Here were as-
sembled all the peasants of the surrounding country,
for a grand dance in holiday costume. There were
two rooms, both well filled with men, women, and to-
bacco smoke. They danced with wonderful energy,
the girls sometimes spinning like tops, and then whirl-
ing around the room in most extraordinary confusion.
At intervals, all would stamp violently on the floor
with their thick hob-nailed shoes, and then all clap
hands with great vigor, always keeping accurate time
with the music. The dance was continued until day-
break, and, as our rooms were directly above them, we
could duly appreciate the sport.
We are passing a few days in this place to rest and
recruit. One of our party brought a memento of the
music gardens of Dresden and Prague, in the shape
of chills and fever, but in this splendid mountain air
is rapidly recovering.
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 315
On Sunday there was a great gathering of peasants
from the country, and their costumes were a study.
Some of the men wore coats, the waists of which were
ornamented by two buttons between the shoulders,
while their long skirts almost reached the ground.
The churches were quite full in the morning, but in
the afternoon were almost deserted, while the beer
gardens were crowded. We had our own private de-
votions, as usual ; a sermon was read, hymns sung,
and the day not unprofitably spent.
8th. We hired a large traveling carriage for the
journey to Munich, for which we made a written con-
tract. Our first stop was at Hallein, from whence we
visited the celebrated salt works. After being drawn
up a very steep mountain, in a wagon shaped like half
an egg shell, we found ourselves at the entrance of the
mine ; but before going in, we were each furnished
with a suit of thick white duck, a woolen cap, heavy
leathern gloves, and apron, the latter put on behind
instead of before, and a candle. Thus equipped,
with one guide to lead and another to follow, we en-
tered the side of the mountain by a passage six feet
high, three feet wide at the bottom, and two feet at
the top, cut most of the way through solid rock, a part
of which is salt. The walk was about a mile in length,
and the path nearly level. We passed many similar
paths diverging from this, which we did not explore.
There were five places where we slid down from one
to four hundred feet, at an angle of about forty-five
degrees, sitting between two large, round, smooth
poles, placed about twelve inches apart ; a rope enabled
the guide, who went first, to regulate the speed of the
316 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
party. We passed through immense caverns, and in
one instance crossed a large lake in a boat. We were
told, at one time, that we were three thousand feet
below the surface.
When within a quarter of a mile of the outlet, we
were requested to take seats upon a narrow plank, to
the ends of which were attached wheels running upon
a tramway. The passage was straight, and a little
descending. A boy took the tongue of the vehicle,
and we were drawn rapidly to the open air, where we
were met by an attendant, with the clothing, &c.,
which we had left at the entrance.
After dinner rode to Batersgarten, where we ob-
tained a great variety of carvings in wood and ivory,
and other curiosities. The hotels, or post houses, in
this part of our journey, we found to be excellent, and
very cheap. For dinner, lodging, and breakfast, we
were sometimes charged but fifty cents for each person.
We often saw women laboring in the field, mowing
the grass, sometimes in a pouring rain. On several
occasions a woman appeared harnessed with straps to a
plow, which was held and guided by a man ; and once
we saw the plow drawn by the joint efforts of a woman
and a mule.
Arrived at Munich at seven P. M. On the
way dined at a place where our table was spread under
the trees of a pleasant garden. We were joined at
dinner by a little brown squirrel, which ran down
from a tree to our table, and helped himself from
our plates.
Ylth. After passing a few days in Munich, a city
devoted to art, where we saw many fine pictures, stat-
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 317
uaiy, <fec., we left for Switzerland and Italy, by way of
Constance, Geneva, and the Sirnplon Pass.
Milan, September 7. We arrived this afternoon by
private carriage from Bareno, by way of Cesto Calen-
der, at head of Lake Maggiore. The contrast between
this level country and the mountain scenery through
which we have been passing, is very striking. The
vine, Indian corn, and mulberry tree seem to be the
principal productions.
The cathedral of Milan is four hundred and eighty-
five feet long, and two hundred and fifty-two feet wide.
The roof is of marble, from which ascend a multitude
of slender spires, each having a marble statue upon its
summit. There are already about the building seven
thousand statues, and the design calls for three thou-
sand more. The prominent object within is the mag-
nificent tomb of St. Carlo Borromeo. The shriveled
remains of this saint may be seen through a crystal
coflin. A large diamond sparkles upon the remnant
of a finger, and many rich jewels adorn the tomb.
There is a church here, the interior walls of which are
entirely of skulls and other human bones, arranged in
regular order. Many other objects of interest arc seen
in this place.
Leaving Milan, we passed through Brescia to Ve-
rona, where we spent a Sabbath. Here, at the risk of
our liberty, if not our lives, as we afterward learned,
we presented to a servant girl the Protestant Bible
which we bought for the Jewish lady of Prague. She
seemed desirous to know the true religion, and the
city of Verona certainly afforded at that time few
facilities for the accomplishment of her desire. On
318 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOHD.
Monday we visited the amphitheater, supposed to have
been built in the first century. It is oval in form, and
in a good state of preservation. It would seat some
thirty-nine thousand persons.
Venice, September 13. We have provided ourselves
with a gondola, the only means of navigating these
streets of water. There are, however, many narrow
passages by which one may traverse the city on foot,
but a horse or carriage of any kind is unknown.
Water for drinking is obtained from artesian wells,
and carried in copper kettles, fastened to each end of
long elastic poles upon the shoulders of women. The
city abounds with rich palaces of stone and marble,
highly ornamented with carving; many of these pal-
aces are falling to decay, some unoccupied, and others
used as hotels. There are also many splendid churches,
which are in themselves works of art, and contain val-
uable paintings ; but on this, as on most of the cities
in this region, " Ichabod " is plainly written.
Ferrara, 1.Qth. We are now in the dominions of
the pope. On crossing . the line at the River Po, our
persons and property were being subjected to a search-
ing examination, which, however, was very essentially
modified by a little liberality toward the well-fed offi-
cials. )ur course now lies through Bologna, and over
the Apennines to Tuscany. Mrs. Safford and myself
occupy the coupe of a diligence, while the others of
our party prefer the more open view from the elevated
position of the banquette. The diligence is drawn up
the mountains, sometimes by horses, and sometimes by
pxen. The descent is rapid, though the wheels are
confined by a drag. At midnight we were obliged to
TRAVELING FOR HEALTH. 319
unpack ourselves at the custom house on the frontier
of Tuscany ; but a small present satisfied the conscien-
tious officers that our luggage contained nothing which
ought to pay duty.
In passing from Venice to these mountains, generally
through a very level and apparently productive coun-
try, I was struck with the large number of fine-looking
oxen, nearly all of which were clear white. I observed
the contrast between the modes of plowing and the
teams employed in Italy and in Germany. In Italy I
have seen twelve teams, of five to seven yoke of oxen
in each, plowing in one field. The plows are large
and heavy, and cut a very deep furrow. The German
method of propelling this instrument I have spoken of
previously. The plows used in Germany are very light,
and seem to do but little more than scratch the ground.
Florence, 21st. We have passed several days here,
and seen many most beautiful objects. Nature and
art seem to have combined to render Florence charm-
ing. Unlike most of the old European cities, it seems
to be in a thriving condition. Many of the buildings
appear new, and there is an air of industry and activ-
ity about the streets. Most of the streets are narrow,
but are neatly paved with large, smooth stones, laid
lowest in the middle, having occasional holes in them,
to let the water into the sewer below. The moral and
political condition of Tuscany is sad indeed. The
grand duke thinks he has a commission from God to
put down heresy, and says he is determined to do it
effectually. It is here that the Madaii were impris-
oned for having little religious meetings in their own
house, and on the week of our arrival a Scotch lady
320 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAPFORD.
was arrested, imprisoned, and is likely to t>e condemned
to labor for several years in a prison, for the offense
of giving a religious tract to an Italian girl.
We had a letter of introduction to Mr. Powers, the
eminent sculptor, who was of great service to us, even
giving much of his valuable time to accompany us to
various galleries of art, and, by his remarks and crit-
icism, enabling us to appreciate much that we should
not otherwise have observed.
Leghorn, 21th. We left Florence by railway, and
passed through Pisa, where we stopped for a few hours
to see the celebrated Leaning Tower. This tower was
built in the twelfth century, and, as nothing is known
of the intentions of its architect, each traveler must
decide for himself the great question whether it was
meant to be a leaning tower, or has become so from
the settling of the foundations of one side. I am of
opinion that the tower, with the exception of the upper
story or tier of columns and arches, was built leaning.
First, because the cathedral, which stands close by it,
and is of a similar material and style of architecture,
leans out, except the upper section, which is perpen-
dicular. Second, because if it had been built upriglit,
and had afterward settled, the upper story would have
leaned with the others. I believe, however, that it
leans more now than when first built, as the greatly
increased weight upon one side of the foundation
would cause it to settle.
Leaving Pisa, and passing a night at Lucca, where
are some celebrated baths, we arrived here (Leghorn)
just too late for the steamer which we intended taking,
and have now been obliged to wait a week for the
TRAVELING FOB HEALTH. * 321
steamer of to-day for the south. Leghorn seems to be
a flourishing commercial city. In many parts the
buildings are new and spacious, and the streets are
beautifully paved with large, irregular stones, neatly
fitted together.
On the Sabbath we attended the Presbyterian Church,
and heard two good sermons from a Scotcli minister,
who supplies the temporary absence of Dr. Steward,
the pastor. The congregation in attendance num-
bered less than one hundred.
Rome, October 7. We left Leghorn by steamer
September 27, at five o'clock P. M., and arrived next
morning at Civita Yecchia. After much delay and
annoyance at the custom house, we obtained an extra
diligence for Rome, where we arrived late in the even-
ing. We have previously traveled by means of an
extra diligence, which sometimes affords an agreeable
variety, though in rainy weather it is not so pleasant.
The horses and postilions are changed every hour, as
with the principal diligence, but the carriage is also
changed every hour. Sometimes we have a large,
roomy, and luxurious vehicle, and the next hour may
bring us a little narrow box, with worn-out springs
and no proper place for the luggage. One soon learns
to take things as they come, when traveling in Europe.
We established ourselves comfortably at the Hotel des
Isles Britanniques, in the Piazza del Popolo. Engaged
a carriage by the day, and for the past week have been
fully occupied with the many interesting " lions " of
Rome. With regard to St. Peter's I had very high
expectations, and they were more than realized. I
climbed to the ball, from whence I had a fine view.
322 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
Naples, 8th. Yesterday we left Rome by diligence
a ride of thirty-one hours to this place. We were
surrounded by the most importunate of beggars at
every stopping place. The road was very dusty, and
Mrs. Safford not at all well. We were stopped several
times for the examination of passports and baggage,
and were plainly told that a fee would avoid the open-
ing of trunks.
12th. We have now visited all the prominent ob-
jects of interest in Naples and vicinity, and are to take
a steamer this afternoon for Marseilles, on our home-
ward way. The people of this country are certainly
in a most unhappy condition of religious and political
bondage. To witness this detracts greatly from the
pleasure of travel here.
Our party arrived at Marseilles on the 16th of Oc-
tober, the steamer having laid over a day each at
Civita Vecchia, Leghorn, and Genoa. We went on
shore each day, and made various purchases of pic-
tures, prints, curiosities, &c. From Marseilles to this
place we had a long, tedious diligence ride of fifty-two
hours. At times our loaded vehicle was hoisted from
its wheels upon a railway truck, but we were drawn
most of the way by horses. Our road lay through
Avignon and Lyons, but we had no opportunity for
more than a flying view of those cities. After passing
a week at Paris, we left, on the 26th of October, for
London, where we remained a few days, and arrived
at Liverpool in time for the steamer " America," Cap-
tain Lang, thence for Boston. After a stormy passage
of fifteen days, I found myself sailing up the harbor
of my beloved Boston.
MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE SEMINARY. 323
CHAPTER XVIII.
EFFORTS IN BEHALF OF MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE
SEMINARY.
Interest in the Cause of Education. Visit to Belchertown. Suggestion
of a School for Young Ladies. Consultation with Dr. Edwards. Visit
of Mary Lyon. Her Plans Subscribes Five Hundred Dollars in Aid
of them. Subsequent Contributions and Efforts for the Seminary.
Letter of one of the Teachers.
AMONG the objects of benevolence which ever greatly
interested Mr. Safford was the cause of education.
Mention has already been made of the frequent sums
contributed by him for the aid of young men pre-
paring for the ministry. Incidental allusion has been
had also to his interest in the Mount Holyoke Female
Seminary, and its laborious and devoted founder,
Mary Lyon. The present is deemed an appropriate
place to speak more particularly of his connection
with that institution.
In the year 1833 Mr. and Mrs. Safford paid a visit
to their brother-in-law, Rev. J. Reid, then residing at
Belchertown. The immediate object of the visit was
to aid him in a comfortable settlement in that field of
labor by purchasing for him a dwelling house. The
journey was made in a chaise his usual manner of
traveling at that time. In conversation during the
ride, Mr. Safford remarked, that having experienced, as
324 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
he thought, much good from his resolution to devote
his income, except what was needed for the wants of
himself and family, to purposes of benevolence, and
having been blessed of God also with an increase of
resources, he was desirous of finding some proper ob-
ject, to which not only his money, but his time, now
less engrossed than formerly in business, might be
given. In reply, it was suggested that a school for the
thorough education of girls on Christian principles,
whose privileges might be within the reach of all, was
one of the great wants of the age. The idea at once
commended itself to him. He saw, on reflection,
how disproportionate the means furnished for the ed-
ucation of young ladies, as compared with that of
young men, and remembered that he himself, though
he had done much for the latter, had done nothing
for the former. He expressed a wish that he might
be instrumental in establishing a school to meet this
want.
On entering the village of Belchertown, his attention
was attracted by a large, unoccupied building, and he
remarked, " Perhaps here is a house all ready for us."
The next day he obtained an entrance into it, and
examined the premises. On a subsequent visit, an
estate in the vicinity was offered to him for sale, which
he was strongly inclined to purchase for the purpose
mentioned. Judging it, however, wise to consider of
the matter further, he shortly after paid a visit to Dr.
Edwards, at Andover, and laid the whole subject before
him. Dr. Edwards informed him that Miss Mary
Lyon was devoting herself to the accomplishment of a
similar object, and recommended that before taking
any decided measures, he should acquaint himself with
MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE SEMINARY. 325
her plans. Mr. Safford, having some knowledge of
Miss Lyon, felt that if a person of her character and
qualifications had undertaken- the work, it might be
well for him to wait the result before engaging in it
further ; and other objects claiming his notice, the
winter passed without his giving further attention to
the subject.
Early in the spring of 1836 he received a line from
Miss Lyon, asking that, if she should be passing
through Boston the following week, she might have
the privilege of spending a night with his family ; to
which he gave a prompt and cordial affirmative. Ac-
cordingly, just at dusk one evening, the rattle of a
stage coacli was heard in their quiet court, and her
arrival was announced. Mr. Safford, having a slight
acquaintance, was the first to receive her, and, with a
hearty welcome, introduced her to Mrs. Safford. Her
toilet occupied but a moment, as she had merely to
exchange her bonnet for that broad white turban which
many remember as the distinguishing feature of her
dress at this period.
She was in the vigor of life ; time had plowed no
furrows on that broad, cheerful face ; the large, beam-
ing blue eye, the open forehead, indeed, her whole
countenance, revealed a mind and heart expressive of
lofty sentiments and expanded views of life and its
ends. This was the first introduction to the family of
one who ever after was like a member in it. Children,
servants, and guests henceforth regarded her as having
a right to come, to tarry, and go as she pleased.
After tea and family devotions, Miss Lyon occupied
several hours in explaining the specific object of her
visit, and giving the detail of her plans. She had
28
326 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
undertaken a great work, which was to be accomplished
by faith, but by a faith which required much self-denial
and toil, on her part and on the part of many others.
She had collected the first thousand dollars in small sums,
from her friends in Ipswich, for an institution the build-
ings of "which alone would cost sixty thousand dollars.
She possessed herself but two thousand dollars, and had
no relative or friend upon whom she could found the
expectation of assistance ; but believing herself called
of God to this service, she relied on him implicitly,
accompanying every step with fervent prayer for guid-
ance and help. After completing this collection in the
town of Ipswich, where she had been thoroughly
known and appreciated for a number of years, she had
looked anxiously to the metropolis of New England,
for the hearts and hands she needed. She asked God
to guide her to some gentleman who would candidly
listen to the statement of her plan, who was capable
of appreciating her views, and who could devote both
time and money to carry them into execution. The
answer to her note she thought indicated where the
pillar of cloud was resting, and it was with much so-
licitude that she waited for the result of this visit.
The essential features of her plan were these :
1. The education afforded should aim first and
most earnestly at so cultivating the mind and heart as
to secure in the pupil a supreme purpose to labor for
the conversion of the world, and suitable qualifications
for the work.
2. The buildings and apparatus requisite should be
bestowed by the public gratuitously, as in the case
of colleges for young men, so as to diminish the ex-
pense to the pupils, and bring the advantages of the
institution within the reach of all.
MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE SEMINARY. 327
3. All the pupils should be put upon a footing of
equality in every department of the institution.
4. Independence and industry should be secured by
dividing the entire housework among the pupils.
5. Teachers should be employed who would be con-
tent to receive, like the minister or missionary, not
compensation, but support.
In this detail of her views and plans, Mr. Safford
found an expression of many thoughts which had be-
fore been more or less clearly suggested to his own
mind. He was therefore well prepared to espouse the
object which she had so much at heart, and com-
bine his own efforts with hers for its accomplishment.
On the following day he presented her a subscription
of five hundred dollars,* and his interest, his prayers,
and contributions were enlisted for life in its behalf.
He long afterward remarked to a friend, as death was
approaching, " No money, time, or effort which I have
bestowed on any object, affords me more satisfaction in
the review than those given to Mount Holyoke Sem-
inary."
* Miss Lyon had heard his name, and had been told that he might
regard her undertaking with favor. A gentleman who had married
one of her Buckland scholars, and who is now a professor in one of
our theological seminaries, commended her to his friendly notice.
She found an open ear. His wife opened her doors and her heart to
Miss Lyon and her coadjutors. When, after their first interview with
her, this gentleman said to his wife, "How much do you think I had
better give to Miss Lyon ? " she replied, I thought perhaps you
would give five hundred dollars." The husband was surprised ; hut
he slept upon the subject, and rejoiced the hearts of the friends of the
cause by affixing that sum to his well-known name. It was the first,
but by no means was it the last, five hundred dollars which he gavo
to that cause. The time, influence, and sympathy which he and his
partner have to this day given to it have been worth more than thou-
sands of silver and gold. Memoir of Mary Lyon, p. 206.
328 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
Miss Lyon, in after years, frequently alluded to this
visit and subscription as having greatly cheered and
encouraged her. The donations in Ipswich were, to a
great extent, the expressions of personal friendship
and confidence ; but Mr. Safford was the first stranger
who, upon the mere merits of the enterprise itself,
ventured to contribute a large sum.
In the following autumn, he convened a number of
gentlemen at his house, to give Miss Lyon an oppor-
tunity of laying her plans before them. At this time
he subscribed one thousand dollars more to the ob-
ject,* and continued his subscriptions afterward, as the
work progressed, till their entire amount exceeded
four thousand dollars. He was at his death the largest
contributor to the seminary in money, and, with An-
drew Porter, Esq., of Monson, the largest contributor
in services.
But his pecuniary aid, serviceable as it was, bore no
comparison in value with his personal labors. Of
these perhaps no better idea can be conveyed than by
* Thursday evening, though it was so rainy, we had a very inter-
esting little meeting in Deacon Safford's parlor. The gentlemen
thought there would be no impropriety in admitting three ladies to
hear what was said on the subject Mrs. Safford, Miss C., and myself.
Deacon Safford wished to have us present, and asked the opinion of
several gentlemen, who approved of it. Rev. Messrs. Cogswell, An-
derson, Blagden, Winslow, Rogers, and Boies, with some fifteen or
twenty laymen, were present. Mr. Anderson made some very perti-
nent and effective remarks, and read a part of your letter in connec-
tion with them. At the close of the meeting, a subscription was
taken up of a little more than three thousand dollars, which has since
been increased to four thousand. The largest subscriptions were, one
of one thousand dollars from Deacon Safford, two of five hundred
dollars each, and four of two hundred and fifty dollars each, from
other individuals. Memoir of Mary Lyon, p. 238.
MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE SEMINARY. 329
the following communication of one of the devoted
teachers of the seminary, who has now joined him, we
trust, in the praises of heaven.
" Pleasant as it is to speak of Deacon Safford, how can
I tell you what he was and is to us ? As well might I
describe a fresh sunny morning in the budding spring
time, so pure, reviving, and diffusive was the influence
of his personal presence, and our recollection of him
when absent.
" There was always joy in the house when it was an-
nounced that Deacon Safford had come. We, teachers,
hastened to receive his genial greeting, and to tell him
how glad we were to see him. When he came down
to the supper table there was an expression of pleasure
on the faces of all the young ladies who knew him ;
and to none was he long a stranger. We often heard
the exclamation, " It seems good to see Deacon Saf-
ford," or, of him and Deacon Porter together, " Our
fathers have come." All loved to hear his voice in
the family prayer. The young ladies honored him,
and had an instinctive sense of a debt of gratitude
which they owed him as a benefactor and friend. In-
numerable are the Holyoke daughters who rise up
from the several parts of the earth to call him blessed.
" How sweet are the memories which come back in
living freshness of those informal evening gatherings
which often happened in the family parlor, when the
teacher's day was done, and, as children at home, we
passed an hour with him ! With a quick sympathy
and delicate playfulness he inquired into the affairs of
the house wood, water, changes in the building, the
wherewith by which the multitude should be fed, do
28*
330 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
mestic and pecuniary matters generally. We brought
our wants and perplexities, and spread them out freely
before him. But sweeter counsel did we take together
on the spiritual welfare of our great household. It
was this which most deeply interested Deacon Safford's
heart ; and his simple, earnest expressions of his own
dependence on the quickening Spirit, of the impor-
tance of the soul's salvation, and the efficacy of prayer,
often brought us with him low before God. The more
we knew him, the more we felt how beautiful and
noble is religion.
" Deacon Safford manifested his benevolence not
alone by words of love and faith ; money and labor were
as freely given ; and for none of his innumerable ser-
vices or traveling expenses did he take the least remu-
neration. From its beginning he assumed the task of
making for the seminary its large and frequent pur-
chases, in Boston, of groceries and a variety of other
articles. Our tables daily reminded us of the gen-
erous donor of three hundred silver-plated forks, which
serve the convenience of this great family. Our libra-
ry, also, is a pleasing monument of his liberality and
effort. Two or three years before his death, he con-
ceived the design of raising five thousand dollars for
the purchase of books ; and the avails of most of that
sum the school are now enjoying in the silent teachers
brought together from the good and wise of all times
and countries. Not only the books, but the place and
finish of the library room, will always be associated
with Deacon SafTord.*
* In a letter written after his death, Miss Chapin, then principal,
says, "The library is a priceless treasure just what we had long
felt the need of. I never go into it without feelings of grateful joy
MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE SEMINARY. 331
" At different times he spent several weeks at the
seminary to superintend some mechanical operations,
and with his own hands ministered to our necessities.
The laborious undertaking of bringing water into the
building, and conveying it to its different parts, so as
to meet the convenience of the household, he planned
and directed. Well do we remember that long visit
which he made us soon after his return from Europe,
and how assiduously he worked day after day, looking
every night weak and exhausted. Would that he had
heeded our entreaties that he would spare himself, for
a severe illness was in part induced by this undue
exertion. Four or five weeks of one of our long va-
cations, Deacon and Mrs. Safford spent at the semi-
nary, in company with two of the teachers, laying
plans for the future, and attending to various matters
connected with the necessities of the institution.
Even in his brief visits, Deacon Safford was all the
day engaged in looking carefully about the house and
grounds to see what was wanting. He would have
every thing in the nicest order, and did not fail to
appreciate the utility of beauty among the educating
influences of the school. Still, he never seemed to
think that he did any great thing ; and it was quite
embarrassing to attemi t to thank him for his kind-
nesses.
" In his later visits, it was affecting to hear his ex-
pressions of regret that he could be of so little service,
while even then painfully taxing his strength. As he
that we are permitted to have such an aid in our work ; and I wish
those who so kindly contributed to it could know how much they
have done for u.. I am sure they would foul more than repaid for
their labor of love."
332 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
was going away next to the last time, and we were
urging him to come soon again, he made some reply
depreciative of himself, and added, ' Next time I. will
bring my minister, and then you will be glad to- see
me.' He seemed not to understand that, deeply
grateful as we were for the visits of his minister,
nobody could be more welcome than himself. And
little did we think when his minister should come, it
would be alone, to speak to us of our common bereave-
ment, our departed friend.
" Our thoughts tenderly linger around Deacon Saf-
ford's last visit and last parting. We knew that in
much weakness and pain he had made a great effort
to take the journey for the purpose of attending to
important business. There was a look of patient suf-
fering on his still cheerful face, which gave a chastened,
anxious feeling to all that group who gathered around
him. Deacon Porter, his friend and fellow-helper, was
with us also ; and that last evening, as a few of us
met in the parlor, though we felt upon us a deep
shadow of coming sorrow, still our two friends talked
not of sickness or separation, but of what could be
done for the school. Late into the evening of his life,
Deacon Safford was busy in his Master's work. Our
good byes the next morning were said with hardly
suppressed tears ; and yet the usual kindly pleasantry
marked his manner.
" The intelligence that Deacon Safford was sick unto
death was exceedingly painful to the household. How
could we, who so loved and relied upon him, bear to
have him taken from us ? And how could this insti-
tution, with whose interests he had been so vitally
united, live when he was dead ?
MOUNT HOLYOKE FEMALE SEMINARY. 333
" God is a strong tower, and at such times of earthly
bereavement he makes us feel his merciful strength
closing firmly about us, and hear his voice saying,
' Be not dismayed, for I am thy God.' Thus has he
spoken to this afflicted institution ; and so far as his
own glory and work are concerned, we believe he will
furnish another pillar, and fit' it to this weakened
fabric. Of the many wreaths of grateful love which
are thrown upon his grave, none can be more enduring
than that woven by Holyoke daughters ; and many,
undoubtedly, are the jewels in his crown, polished for
the Master's use through his instrumentality in sus-
taining this school founded for God.
" When another anniversary shall sadly remind us
that this trustee comes up no more with his associates
to the councils of the seminary, and the graduating
class receive their diplomas, from other hands, shall
we not look above and see him, with Mary Lyon, prais-
ing God for the harvest which, from their sowing, tho
stricken reapers have been permitted to gather ?
Respectfully yours,
CATHARINE McKEEN."
33-1 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
CHAPTER XIX.
SICKNESS AND DEATH.
Chronic Disease of the Heart. Anticipations of Death. Cheerfulness un-
der them. Sudden Attack of Illness. Purchase of a House. Repairs
and Kemoval thither. Efforts and Prayers for a Revival. Second
severe Attack. Spiritual Enjoyment. Home Occupations. Annual
Meeting of A. B. C. F. M. Marriage of his eldest Son. Last Visit
to Mount Holyoke Seminary. Last Letter. Council of Physicians.
Severe Suffering. Last Prayer Meeting with his Brethren, and Attend-
ance on Public Worship. Conversation in Prospect of Death. Abound-
ing Comforts. Peace. Directions about his Funeral, &c. Lying at
Jesus' Feet. His Work done. Death.
IT has been already mentioned, that, from his early
childhood, Mr. Safford had indications of an organic
disease of the heart. These appeared more or less
frequently during his whole life, but became partic-
ularly alarming after he had passed the age of three-
score. It was consequently his expectation that he
should die suddenly, and he once remarked, that if he
were allowed to express a wish on the subject, it
would be his choice to die thus. It was ever a painful
thought to him, that he might outlive his usefulness ;
and his prayer, which was fully answered, was,
" Teach me to live that I may dread
The grave as little as my bed."
He often closed his eyes for the night uttering the
child's petition,
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 335
1 ' Now I lay me down to sleep ;
I pray the Lord my soul to keep ;
If I should die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take."
Though he regarded it as more than possible that he
should awake in another world, he still lay down as
peacefully as if he had never known aught but the
most perfect health.
There was no gloom associated with death in his
mind. He spoke of it as a certain event, for which
he aimed always to be ready, but as naturally as he
would talk of any thing else ; always seriously, but
never as diminishing his enjoyment in his friends, or
in any of the things of this life. But while this an-
ticipation interfered with no plan, pursuit, or pleasure,
of an earthly nature, it led him to do, while in health,
what many defer to a death bed. Three times within
the last twenty years he made his will, and with ap-
parently the same feelings with which he transacted
other important business. With him it was a serious
thing to live ; about this he felt much responsibility,
saying ever, " If we can only live rightly, it will be
easy to die."
Ton years previous to his death, he purchased a lot
in Mount Auburn Cemetery, to which he removed the
bodies of his friends, which had been resting in a tomb
under Park Street Church, and at the same time
marked the spot where he wished his own body to rest,
and gave directions about his gravestone, saying, " It
is my choice to have my dust mingle with its mother
earth, but not to have a costly monument mark the
place of its interment." After thus making what lie
thought proper provision for the last resting of his
336 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
body, he dismissed the subject, and did not name it
again until just before his death.
In the summer of 1853, while in Europe, he heard
of the death of his brother-in-law, Rev. Dr. Edwards,
and was much affected by it. He seemed to regard it
as a special summons to himself to be also ready ; and
had he known that within three years he should follow
this much beloved brother into the world of spirits, he
could not have more diligently prepared himself for it.
His first thought was, that he must return home im-
mediately and finish his work at South Hadley, and in
the City Missionary Society ; but after a little consid-
eration he satisfied himself with deciding definitely
upon the time of embarkation, engaging passage for
himself and party, and then proceeding to carry out
his original plan of travel. On his homeward passage,
the weather being much of the time boisterous, con-
fining him to his berth, he occupied himself with his
favorite employment of repeating hymns from Watts' s
Collection, mostly descriptive of heaven. One, of which
he was particularly fond, was the folio-wing :
" Up to the fields where angels lie,
And living waters gently roll,
Fain would my thoughts leap out and fly,
But sin hangs heavy on my soul.
" Thy wondrous love, dear, dying Christ,
Can make this world of guilt remove ;
And thou canst bear me where thou fly'st
On thy kind wings, celestial Dove.
" Oh, might I once mount up and see
The glories of the eternal skies,
What little things these worlds would be
How despicable in my eyes !
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 337
" Had I a glance of thee, my God,
Kingdoms and men would vanish soon
Vanish as though I saw them not,
As a dim candle dies at noon.
" Then they might fight, and rage, and rave ;
I should perceive the noise no more
Than we can hear a shaking leaf
While rattling thunders round us roar.
" Great All in All, eternal King,
Let me but view thy lovely face,
And all my powers shall bow, and sing
Thine endless grandeur and thy grace."
The twelfth chapter of the Epistle to the Romans he
had also committed to memory, and often repeated. It
had been his practice, for many years, to engage in such
recitations with his family, at the close of the Sabbath.
Oil his passage out to Europe, a little book, entitled
" Christ is All," had been given him. He read this
repeatedly, with deep interest, and carried it in his
pocket-book from that time until his death, together
witli the hymn, written in his own hand,
" Just as I am, without one plea."
He found this such a benefit to himself, that he pur-
chased copies enough to supply one to each member
of the Mount Vernon church, and presented them on
the first Friday night on which lie conducted the meet-
ing after his return. He always kept one at hand also
for any Christian whom he found troubled with doubts,
and for others who were seeking the way of life.
His joy and gratitude on finding himself once more
in his beloved city, church, and home were very great.
29
338 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
But he allowed himself to remain there only from
twelve o'clock, Saturday night, until the next Monday
afternoon, when .he left for South Hadley, to superin-
tend the waterworks for the new wing of the semi-
nary, which had been waiting his arrival. He labored
there for three weeks, in almost entire forgetfulness of
himself and his own concerns ; rising with the sun, and
occupying himself until dark every day with the work-
men, until the whole was completed.
This labor was probably too severe for him. There
were indications, during the following winter, that the
disease of the heart was assuming a serious character,
although he seldom spoke of it, and appeared to his
friends generally remarkably vigorous and cheerful.
In returning with Mrs. Safford from a visit to a sick
person one evening, he was seized with great distress,
which obliged him to stop and lean some minutes
against the door of a livery stable, and then walk
home very slowly. After recovering a little, he went
to the church meeting, and aided in the services, as
usual.
This ill turn led Mrs. Safford to consult their physi-
cian, and obtain from him, without the knowledge of
her husband, directions in case of a similar attack.
About three weeks after this, he left the house at eight
o'clock one morning, to attend the Old South prayer
meeting, proposing to call at the market on the way.
It was a chilly morning in March. In about fifteen
minutes afterward he was brought to the door by his
physician, aided by another gentleman, and laid upon
the sofa in a helpless and almost insensible state.
Under the application of friction and stimulants, he
recovered sufficiently, in an hour or two, to speak in a
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 339
faint whisper. He remained thus two days, snffering
intensely and without intermission.. His life was not
expected to continue from one hour to another.
In one of these nights of suffering, hearing, about
midnight, voices in an adjoining room, he asked who
were there. On being told they were his pastor and
Deacon Palmer, he said, in a whisper, " Oh, I have a
good pastor, a good brother, and a good wife ; " and
afterwards, very slowly, and in the same faint man-
ner,
" Just as I am, without one plea,
Save that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou bidd'st me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come ! "
He manifestly felt that he was just going into the
presence of the Unseen ; and these words, as he ut-
tered them, expressed the feelings witli which, in per-
fect composure, he was waiting to meet his Judge.
The circumstances of this attack seemed specially
providential. His physician had called that morning
at the market, at the same moment with himself, and,
having been apprised by Mrs. Saffbrd of the state of
his health, looked at him very attentively ; and de-
tecting, as he turned to leave, a slight wavering in his
step, sprang forward, and saved him from a fall, which
very probably would have been fatal.
It was two weeks before he was able to resume his
usual business ; but he was never afterward at any
time free from the distress in his chest, termed by
the physicians angina pectoris. Tbey had told him
that he was liable to die at any moment, but his ap-
pearance indicated vigorous health ; his spirits were
generally buoyant, and his interest in his family, and
340 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
all the affairs of life, especially those relating to the
salvation of his fellow-men, never seemed so great
as during the subsequent two years. Professor Phelps,
of Andover, had offered him his house for the summer,
while he should be absent in Europe, which offer he
had accepted previous to his illness ; and immediately
upon his recovery he removed thither. This was a
very merciful arrangement of Providence, affording
him a delightful residence in a bracing, salubrious,
country atmosphere for six months. The summer was
spent by him in the open air, cultivating the garden,
riding, and superintending the erection of a monument
for Dr. Edwards, which several friends had been
instrumental of procuring, grading and sodding the
ground ; and, during a severe drouth of several weeks,
carting water, with his own horse and man, to pre-
serve the grass green.
While in Andover he sold his dwelling in Beacon
Street ; and it was a question with him whether he
should return to the city again, or build a house for
his family in the country. Although he had been
much interested in the erection of houses of worship,
and had sometimes expressed a desire to build a dwell-
ing of his own, he had never found the time ; but now,
as it seemed probable that he must soon leave his fam-
ily, he expressed a strong desire to provide for them a
residence which would be more convenient and com-
fortable than any he could buy ; and he examined sev-
eral building lots for this purpose. But from this he
was finally dissuaded by the consideration of the pre-
carious state of his health. After much prayer for the
divine guidance, and receiving, as he thought, distinct
intimations of the leadings of Providence, he pur-
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 341
chased and remodeled the house in Beacon Hill Place,
in which he died. The energy and enthusiasm which
he manifested in this undertaking were very remark-
able. He superintended all parts of the work himself,
hastening it forward as if he felt that his time was
short, and constantly making the impression that he
was preparing the house, not for himself to live in, hut
for his family. He rarely spoke of the pressure of
disease which was upon him, and strangers who met
him, and even some of his familiar acquaintances,
scarcely suspected its existence.
At new year's, after three months' labor, he was very
happy in seeing his family settled, and enjoying their
new home. One evening in February, about forty of
his friends, including six pastors of the city, assembled
at his house, for social religious services of a dedicatory
character. The house he had prepared for his family,
but he wished it to be given to Christ, and used by
them for his cause. It was by him sincerely thus con-
secrated. This meeting was one to be long remem-
bered. Those who were present will not forget his
appearance on the occasion, although none but his
family understood fully the deepest thoughts of his
heart. God had said to him, as he did to Moses,
" Behold, the days approach that thoti must die."
These pastors were very dear to him ; with all of them,
for many years, he had sympathized, labored, and
prayed. Others present represented the dilFercnt
churches in the city with which he had been connected,
and with these lie had enjoyed delightful fellowship
and communion. His words were very few, but his
countenance was more than usually radiant and serene ;
and as he took each brother and sister bv tho hand at
21) *
342 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
parting, his heart overflowed with affection, believing
that this was one of the last seasons of communion
with them, until they should meet where parting is
no more. Their sympathy with him in this dedication
gave him great joy. Like every other thing of the
kind, it was done by him heartily. It was a reality ;
and he believed God accepted it just as much as if he
had seen the fire coming down upon the altar to con-
sume the sacrifice, or the pillar of cloud filling the
house. The subdued, tender feeling which pervaded
that little company, he could not doubt was the effect
of the divine presence. One head of a family, on
leaving, said, under the same impression, with tearful
eyes, " I want to go back and commence our house-
keeping life anew with such a meeting as this." An-
other said, " The influence of this meeting will be felt
by your family, Mr. Safford, as long as they live. How
I wish we had commenced thus ! "
This winter was Mr. Safford's last season of labor
on earth. As soon as he had finished the work of
providing a home for his family, his mind became en-
grossed with the spiritual interests of the church and
congregation, and he set himself with unusual earnest-
ness to devise means to promote them. A day was set
apart by the church for fasting and prayer, and, as
usual, he was anxious to have it followed by increased
effort, such as would show the sincerity of the prayer.
He arose at the close of a Friday evening meeting,
and, with hardly suppressed tears, said to his brethren,
" We have prayed for the descent of the Holy Spirit ;
we have talked about the importance of accompanying
our prayers with efforts to save the perishing ; but
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 343
what have we done ? " He closed his remarks with an
invitation to all his brethren who wished to do some-
thing, to repair, at the close of that service, to his own
house, to confer together respecting it, and agree upon
some systematic efforts. Between twenty and thirty
accepted the invitation. After prayer and conference,
it was agreed that each one present should, during the
coming week, seek opportunities for personal conversa-
tion with at least one impenitent person, whom they
should make a subject of prayer ; and on the ensuing
Friday evening they should meet there again, and re-
port the results. He also appointed a meeting for
prayer, to be held in the same room daily, at early
dawn, to which persons might be invited who were
found in an anxious state of mind.
These meetings commenced the next morning, and
were held for several weeks. Although his nights at
this time were frequently very unquiet, from the dis-
tress in his chest, he invariably arose to attend and
lead them. At the same time, inquiry meetings were
appointed in the chapel of a somewhat peculiar char-
acter. Professors of religion were invited ; teachers in
the Sunday school, witli their classes, and all imcon-
verted persons, whether they were anxious or not. They
were requested also to bring their friends and acquaint-
ances, for familiar conversation upon the great inter-
ests of their souls. Mr. SafFord entered with his whole
heart into these meetings. The great and solemn
truths of the Bible impressed and absorbed his whole
being, and his benevolent heart, as he felt increasingly
their awful import, was stimulated to stir up the minds
of his brethren, by way of remembrance.
His heart was drawn out toward any whom he found
344 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPPORD.
struggling with unbelief and temptation ; not satisfied
with one conversation, he has many times followed
them until the light has dawned upon their minds.
He made great use this winter of his little book,
" Clirist is All," and more than one found sweet relief
from the hymn given them by him to read " Just as
I am, without one plea."
But in the midst of these efforts, God spoke to us
again, in a manner we could not misunderstand "In
an hour ye think not, the Son of man cometh." Mr.
Safford had been appointed delegate, and accompanied
his pastor to an installation service in Waltham. It
was just about a year from the time of his serious
attack in 1854. After the close of the services, fear-
ing that his pastor would not be in season to fulfill an
engagement in the city, he was a little agitated when
walking to the cars, and, before reaching them, he lost
his consciousness, and would have fallen, had not a
friend, who accompanied him, supported him until his
pastor and others came to his aid. He was conveyed
to the nearest dwelling, and an express sent immedi-
ately to his family. To their great relief and joy,
however, in about two hours, he entered his dwelling
very weak, and still suffering, but cheerful and happy,
accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. W., dear friends who
had been in faithful attendance upon him from the first
moment of his attack.
The next day, when describing his illness to Mrs.
Safford, he said, with a look of the deepest tenderness,
" At that moment, my dear, I thought I should never
see you again ; I believed my time had come ; but I
can not tell why, perhaps it was owing to my stupid-
ity, I had not one anxious feeling ; my mind was
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 345
perfectly peaceful and happy. I could leave myself
and you entirely in the hands of God. I did not think
of any thing more I had to say or to do. I thought,
if that was God's time, it was mine." But he seemed
delighted to be restored again to his family and to his
work ; and in less than two days he was found at his
post in the committee meeting of the American Board,
and the day following at the meeting, in a neighboring
town, of an association assembled to transact business
in which he was deeply interested, as a friend of one
of the parties. At the latter he made a statement of
facts, which he thought justice demanded of him, with
his usual self-possession and clearness.
The month of August, of this summer, Mr. Safford
spent at Mount Holyoke Seminary, superintending the
construction of a library room, and the erection of a
barn. This was the last work he did for that institu-
tion. Excepting these few weeks, he passed the sum-
mer at home, more comfortably, he thought, than he
could have done any where else. He often spoke of
the great pleasure he was experiencing in this life,
while he had bright anticipations of the future.
Every thing seemed to give him delight. He once
remarked, in this connection, " I can not appreciate
the feeling of those who speak of childhood as the
happiest period of life. Were I asked which period
of my life I count the most happy, I should say, the
present. I never, at any time, was conscious of so
much enjoyment as now." Ho was growing feeble,
but grateful, increasingly so, for all the gifts of Prov-
idence, frequently saying, " Why is it that God deals
so kindly with me ? "
It was interesting to see how he contrived to bo
346 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOBD.
industriously employed all the time. He had fitted
up a room in the basement of his house with a carpen-
ter's bench and tools, and a blacksmith's anvil. This
furnished him with amusement and exercise when in
the house. It was at this period that he constructed
the rustic gate for Mrs. Edwards' garden in Andover,
which has already been mentioned. He rode out six
miles to a wood, and procured the materials, brought
them home in his carriage, made the gate, put on the
hinges, and sent it to her by express, all ready to be
hung in its place, where it still remains, a monument
of his brotherly care and affection for a widowed sister-
iu-law. All summer he occupied his place punctually
in the Prudential Committee, the City Missionary So-
ciety, the Old Ladies' Home, and numerous evening
meetings for religious and business purposes.
In September he was able to attend the annual
meeting of the American Board in Utica, New York,
but it was with great effort and increased suffering.
He officiated as deacon at the sacramental table, and
entered with great interest -into all the subjects which
came before the meeting. His favorite chapter, the
twelfth of Romans, was read at the communion, and
again at the hotel on his journey home, in the devo-
tional exercises of a small party of Christian friends
with whom he was in company. As before remarked,
he was in the habit of often repeating this chapter,
without changing or omitting a word, and so delib-
erately and emphatically as to make the impression
that it was indeed written by the Spirit of God upon
his heart.
From the meeting of the Board he went to New York,
and attended the wedding of his oldest son, spending
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 347
a few days in that city, for the last time. It was truly
affecting to see how, with his increasing weakness and
infirmities, his interest in every thing relating to the
cause of Christ, and the welfare of the community
and of his friends, also increased. Worn down with
the fatigue of his journey, during the wakeful hours
of the first night after his return, he was occupied in
framing a letter he wished to address to a brother, who,
he thought, was pursuing an unwise and improper
course ; and it was with difficulty he was persuaded to
save himself the effort of writing the letter in the
morning 4 . His mind was awake, and intent on doing
every thing his hands found to do. Not a meeting of
the church, for prayer or business, was neglected.
Twice a week he attended the City Missionary meet-
ings, in one of which he listened to reports usually two
or three hours, and to reach it ascended long flights
of stairs, which always caused him great distress. But
no entreaties could avail with him to relinquish them.
His whole demeanor seemed to say, Wist ye not that I
must be about my Master's business ?
The health of two of his young lady friends was at
this time declining. As long as he was able to ride,
he called often and invited them to ride with him.
He enjoyed the annual thanksgiving in November, and
the family gathering at his own house, participating in
the amusements of the evening, and never, perhaps,
contributing so much himself to the enjoyment of the
occasion as on that evening ; but complained, on re-
tiring, that it had cost him much suffering. On the
next Monday, he started with his new daughter-in-law,
whom he invited to accompany him, on his last jour-
ney, to visit his much-beloved seminary. He returned
348 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
late on Wednesday evening, and said, as he retired to
rest, " I believe every thing I have desired to do for
the institution is now done. I have had great satisfac-
tion in seeing all parts of the building completed ; the
arrangements for supplying water and hoisting the
wood fo/ the different stories working perfectly, the
library room finished, and the books in their places."
The new steward whom he had engaged had entered
upon his duties, and proved admirably adapted to the
position, keeping every thing in perfect order about
the establishment. The following is the last letter he
ever wrote, addressed to Miss Chapin, the principal of
this seminary.
December 20, 1855.
MY DEAR FRIEND : Your kind letter was duly re-
ceived. Since my return from South Hadley, my
health has been failing daily ; but I do not think the
journey injured me. The last two or three nights I
have been obliged to sit in an arm chair most of the
time, to enable me to breathe. I have a good deal of
pain in the region of the liver and kidneys, which the
physicians think has increased, for the time being, my
heart difficulty, causing my distress for breath. Last
night, Dr. L. expressed a wish to call in another phy-
sician to examine the case with him, to which I con-
sented, and this morning he met Dr. B. here. I be-
lieve they think that when other troubles are removed,
the difficulty of breathing, and pain about the heart,
will be diminished. When I commenced I had no
idea of saying so much about myself.
Be assured your kind feelings are fully reciprocated.
I know your labors and responsibilities are great, and
have often spoken of them ; but I hope you will not
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 349
attempt to carry your burdens alone ; that having done
what you can, you will cast yourself, with all your
cares, upon Him who careth for you, and the institu-
tion you represent.
With much love to your dear associates, and all the
teachers,
Your sincere friend, DANIEL SAFFOBD.
The medical examination here referred to inspired
hope that the seat of the disease was the liver, of which
there was found to be an enlargement, and that it
could be reached by medicine. But the experiment
soon banished this hope. An entire loss of appetite
and swelling of the limbs followed ; indeed, the dis-
ease seemed now to pervade every part of his system.
The night before he wrote the preceding letter, he had
tried to rest in his bed, first by reclining, and then
sitting erect, supported by pillows ; but in vain. He
then went into the adjoining room, kindled a fire, and
seated himself in a chair for the night. He had re-
quested his wife not to rise, saying, " You can do me no
good, and I am sorry to have your rest so much dis-
turbed." But she soon followed, and seated herself in
silence. It was a solemn stillness at midnight, and
the voice of God alone was heard, each understanding,
but not willing to express, what they knew that voice
was saying to them. At length her eye turned to the
large family Bible which lay upon the center table, and
she opened to the closing scene of the life of Moses,
and read the words first addressed to that faithful ser-
vant of old, " The eternal God is thy refuge, and un-
derneath are the everlasting arms." These words
gave him new strength, and several weeks after, in a
30
350 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
season of great distress, when Mrs. Safford expressed
to him a wish to do something to comfort him, " Oh,"
said he, " the everlasting arms do that."
In that awful night we were made to feel that the
season appointed for the baptism of suffering had
come. Previously he had, by the energy of his will,
been able to concentrate his thoughts on outward ob-
jects, and so divert them from his bodily distress. But
this was the still hour of midnight ; there was nothing
to engage the attention. Weakness had utterly pros-
trated that manly frame. Nothing had he then to do,
but simply to suffer. It was no power of persecution
that was applying the instruments of torture ; it was
God's own hand a divine Father, chastening, re-
proving, and sanctifying his child.
One day his pastor made a remark to this purport :
" You have been a faithful child ; you have worked
hard, and loved to work. But there is one lesson
which I think you have not yet perfectly learned."
He inquired what that was. " It is this : to be still,
and do nothing, and appear to be useless. This, for
one of your temperament, is not an easy lesson. I
think, when you shall have learned that thoroughly,
you will be taken home." He replied, " That is prob-
ably the case."
After the circulation of blood had become very slug-
gish, his resolution to overcome what he feared was lazi-
ness or stupidity was quite remarkable. This had for
months troubled him in his private devotions. He was
afraid that it was caused by a lack of religious fervor,
and said he often enjoyed more in prayer when walk-
ing the streets, than in his closet ; but as the disease
increased, the nature of this difficulty became apparent
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 851
to himself, as it had been before to others. For a few
days, about this time, he suffered great mental de-
pression. He was still walking out daily, and attend-
ing somewhat to business. He came in one day, and,
seating himself, said, " I can not give one any idea of
the darkness which has come over me ; there seems to
be a shade of gloom upon every thing." This was a
new experience to him, and caused great distress ; he
could not explain or account for it ; it reminded us of
the horror of great darkness which once fell upon Abra-
ham, the friend of God. At another time he said, " I do
not know what this is. Can it be what is called ner-
vousness ? If it is, I shall always pity nervous people
more than I ever have done."
As long as he was able to walk there, he was found
daily in his accustomed seat at the Old South prayer
meeting. He was associated with the brethren at the
commencement of that meeting, and his interest in it
increased with his declining health. The last time he
was able to preside in it, he read the account of Job's
vision of God, and the prayer of Daniel, and gave as
a reason for it his deep conviction that they needed to
have more of God in those meetings ; that they ought,
like these men, so to see God that they would cast
themselves in the dust, and cover their faces with self-
loathing. More than a year after his death, a stranger
arose in that meeting, and said, " Some months since,
I was present at this meeting ; a gentleman presided
whom I never saw before, and whose name I never
knew ; but his face, his manner, and his words, I shall
never forget." He then mentioned the subject which
he brought before the meeting, and some of his re-
marks on the holiness of God, our own vileness and
352 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
nothingness before him, which made, he said, an inef-
faceable impression upon his mind. Many whole days
were devoted by him, during the last months of his
life, to prayer for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, in
connection with his brethren of that meeting; and
when at length he could meet with them there no
more, he invited a few of them to come to his room
daily at five P. M., for one week, to have a half-hour
season of prayer. Although he found himself every
day growing weaker, and scarcely able to endure it,
he persevered through the week. His ruling passion
was love to Christ's church and the souls of men ;
nothing else would have sustained him through this
series of meetings, while suffering so much. This
closed his seasons of communion with his brethren on
earth. He parted with them, not doubting that their
fellowship would soon be renewed in heaven.
The weekly meetings of the pastor with the deacons
of Mount Vernon church had for some time been held
at Mr. Safford's house. When he found himself un-
able to descend the stairs, he received them as he sat,
in his own room. But at length he found his strength
unequal to the effort. It was deeply affecting to see
his resolution to try to sustain himself until the end ;
but at length he whispered to Mrs. Safford, who had
remained by his side, " Dear, you must ask them to
retire ; I am not able to bear it." And he bade fare-
well to these dear brethren, taking each by the hand
as they left him, never to meet again on earth. It was
hard for him to dissolve the connection, and give up
his' responsibilities in all the departments of labor to
which he had been so devoted.
The church was so near his dwelling, that he at-
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 353
tended its services upon the Sabbath until the middle
of December. The last time, as he was returning, he
was obliged to stop and sit some moments upon the
doorsteps of a house, although within a few yards of
his own door. While able to read, Edwards' History
of Redemption, and the Memoirs of Miss Lyon and
Dr. Edwards, were kept beside him, and portions of
them read by him with great interest. He seemed to
be renewing his acquaintance with those dear friends,
preparatory to meeting them in heaven. The last
chapters of St. John's Gospel were read and re-read
by him with great delight. Sometimes he would ex-
claim with emotion, after reading a passage aloud,
" Do you realize that Christ says this to us ? " It
seemed as if the Holy Spirit in an unusual manner
was taking those last words of our Lord, and showing
to him through them the fullness of his love, and thus
preparing him for that separation from friends which
was so near.
He did not wish to pain his family by talking about
his death as being near ; and yet, wishing them to be
prepared for it, he in various ways showed what was
passing in his mind. After returning from church
one Sabbath afternoon, as he sat by the fire, in his
room, apparently absorbed in thought for some time,
he commenced singing, in a very low, soft tone,
" A few more months, or days, perhaps,
Or moments, passed in silent lapse,
And time with me shall be no more ;
No more the sun these eyes shall view ;
Earth o'er these limbs her dust shall strew,"
the tune repeating, " Her dust shall strew." He gave
up the attempt to receive food, all relish for it having
30*
354 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFPORD.
left him. His sufferings were beyond the power of
human skill to relieve, and can not be described ; but
his family had not yet admitted to him that they
thought him irrecoverably ill ; and he to accommo-
date himself to their feelings, if necessary to speak of
the subject, would say, "'If I die." At length, how-
ever, as the thrush appeared in his mouth and throat,
with other indications equally unmistakable, he one
day, in their presence, said to his physician, " Doctor,
my opinion is, that there is no reasonable ground to
expect any relief from my distress ; that the disease is
working its way through every part of my system, and
must, before long, terminate in death. Is not this
your opinion ? " The doctor appeared reluctant to
reply, but, after hesitating a little, said, "Yes ; about
that." After this Mr. Safford conversed more freely,
and it seemed a relief to him to do so.
The following conversations with Mrs. Safford oc-
curred at different times : " Well, dear, it will make
but little difference whether I go now, or wait a few
years longer, and then go." " Why, no, husband, it
will not make much difference with you, because you
are prepared, and death, at any time, will be gain to
you ; but the difference to me will be very great."
He quickly replied, " If any one has much to live for,
I have. Surely no one ever had more to render life
desirable than I have, and it never seemed more pleas-
ant to me to live than now." It was increasingly diffi-
cult for him to converse much, owing to the weakness
in his throat, which he said seemed dry and parched, and
he only said a few words at a time. Until the last week,
he occupied an easy chair in a room adjoining his bed
room, which he desired the family to retain as a sitting
room, that he might see them all around him.
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 355
Once, when being aided in getting into bed, he
asked, " Do you know what kind of death the doctor
thinks I shall die ? " This was unexpected, as he had
not manifested any solicitude before on that subject ;
but, in reply, it was said, " Probably he thinks the dis-
ease will have expended itself before death, it is now
making such havoc with you, and that your death will
be an easy one." " How different," he replied, " God's
way with me from what I have always anticipated ! I
have supposed I should die suddenly. Perhaps he
has seen that I thought too lightly of death ; and he is
showing me that it is no light thing to die." Mrs. Saf-
ford said, " I think, husband, that all this suffering must
be for me, rather than for you." He quickly replied,
" Oh, I can see reasons enough why I needed it. I
have always had a strong will, and that must be all
broken down before I can get into heaven. When I
have had any thing to do, it has been my habit to do
it, and finish it up at once ; but here God is keeping
me in entire suspense ; he does not tell me what he is
going to do with me, what shall be the end, or how
long I am to suffer, but holds me just here, day after
day, and night after night."
His nights, at this stage of the disease, were very
tedious, his nervous system so much enfeebled as
to render him extremely sensitive, and he was in
constant fear lest he should become impatient. His
prayer continually was, that he might not do any thing
to dishonor religion. He said, " Wife, you must watch
over me, and not allow me to be irritable." Bottles
of hot water were placed in his hands and at his feet,
but he could get no warmth or rest. Hours passed
very tardily : as the clock struck, he would say, " Is it
356 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFOKD.
possible it is no later ? " but never a murmur or com-
plaint escaped his lips. He thought he had very little
patience, and said, " I keep thinking how much more
patiently you have borne sickness than I do." One
day, when he was obliged to have the window open to
enable him to breathe, and it was too cold for any one
to sit by him constantly, on entering the room, Mrs.
Safford said, " What is your mind dwelling upon, hus-
band, as you lie here alone ? " " Oh," said he, " I
have been thinking what a mistake we have made."
As he spoke with much emphasis, she was somewhat
alarmed, supposing he referred to the medicine, or
something in the treatment of his disease, and said,
quickly, " Mistake ! About what ? " " Why, that we
have not understood that God is love. And such love !
How wonderful, wonderful ! I do not grasp it yet, but
I shall." And he made a great effort to describe it as
it was then being revealed to him, but language failed
him. At another time, reference being made to the
convenience of his apartments for his sickness, and the
goodness of God in allowing him to complete the house
before he was laid aside, he responded, saying, " Oh,
yes, it is all goodness; nothing but goodness;" and
after a little while added, " You must have a day of
thanksgiving; I do not know when, but you must
have one."
He could not easily be convinced that he might give
up all responsibility for others. He was careful for
those who watched with him. The first offer to per-
form this office which the family accepted was that of
a younger partner in the business firm with which he
was connected. He loved this young man very much,
and was much pleased that he was going to spend the
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 357
night with him. But when, about three o'clock in the
morning, Mrs. Safford entered the room, Mr. B. said
to her, " Your husband has not slept any, and I fear
you will find him quite tired out ; for he has been so
careful lest I should not make myself comfortable,
that the fire would go down, and I should get cold, or
that I should not get any sleep, that he has not rested
at all." On going to his bed, she found him exhausted
and restless, and said, " I fear you have not had a good
night ; have you been taking care of Mr. B., instead
of allowing him to take care of you ? " " Why, I do
not know ; " and then, recollecting himself, " Why,
yes, I believe I have been feeling all the responsibility
about him, myself, and every thing else." " Will you
not now give it all up to me, and go to sleep ? "
" Yes, yes, I will ; " and in a moment he sank into a
deep slumber.
Dr. B., one of his former pastors, came in and re-
marked to him, " Mr. Safford, it must be a great satis-
faction to you that you have been permitted to do so
much for the cause of your Saviour, and the benefit
of others." He was reclining, with his head on a
pillow, upon a sofa ; the tears flowed from his eyes
upon the pillow as he replied, " Dr. B., think of me
and pray for me as a poor, unworthy sinner. My sole
consolation is, that the blood of Christ cleanseth from
all sin." He delighted in the doctrine of salvation by
grace, and, in his extreme weakness, he repeated the
entire hymn, commencing with,
Grace, 'tis a charming sound."
Humility, and renunciation of all claim to any merit
of his own, had been a marked characteristic of his
358 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFFORD.
piety in health ; and these became increasingly appar-
ent as he drew near to the end of his course. An-
other hymn, which he repeated with his family assem-
bled on Sabbath evenings, evidently expressed the deep
feelings of his heart, and his manner of reciting it
will never be forgotten.
" Father, I long, I faint to see
The place of thine abode ;
I'd leave these earthly courts, and flee
Up to thy seat, my God.
* * * *
" There would I vie with all the host
In duty and in bliss ;
While next to nothing I could boast,
And vanity confess.
" The more thy glories strike my eyes,
The humbler I should lie ;
Thus, while I sink, my joys should rise
" Immeasurably high."
His brother-in-law, Rev. W. Gale, writes, " Wishing
to make some fuller expression of my esteem for Mr.
Safford, and my sense of indebtedness to him for his
uniform kindness to me and mine, as I was sitting by
him the night before his death, I said to him. ' You
have been a good brother to me.' He instantly re-
plied, though extremely weak and helpless, ' You have
been a better one to me, you have been a better one to
me ; ' thus indicating emphatically an unwillingness
to hear any thing relating to his own useful life, and
preventing me from saying more on the subject."
He used to say that he never, in his whole life, had
known what it was to feel slighted ; he always consid-
ered that he received more attention and respect than
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 359
he had a right to claim. When his sufferings had
become extreme, and none but the family were allowed
to enter the room, hearing the voice of a venerable
and much-esteemed citizen inquiring for him below, he
said, " Do allow Mr. T. to come up.; he has taken the
trouble to call before, and I think I can see him."
When this friend entered the room, he was sitting in
his easy chair, unable to recline on account of diffi-
culty of breathing. He extended his hand with a
smile, which was all he could do, and silently listened
to his kind expressions of sympathy. After the gen-
tleman retired, and he recovered strength, he said,
with a smile, " I remember, when I was putting up Mr.
T.'s fence, [which was perhaps thirty years previous,]
with my men, he came out and handed me a tem-
perance tract." And then remaining silent a while,
probably revolving in his mind events in his past his-
tory, he exclaimed, with emphasis and deep emotion,
" Wife, I am over-estimated ; I have always been over-
estimated ; but then, if the Lord is pleased to carry it
out, I don't know as I have any thing to do about it."
His expressions of kindness and sympathy for those
in attendance upon him were very tender. After he
became unable to hear conversation, he loved to see
his family around him. One day, when Mrs. Safford
had been out, as he knew, on some business errands,
she found him sitting up on her return ; and, as she
entered the room, he said, " I have been praying for
you this afternoon, that you may receive grace and
wisdom for the increased responsibilities that are com-
ing upon you." At another time, be asked, " Which
will make you the most happy to know that 1 wish to
die or to live ? " Receiving the answer, " If you must
360 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFOBD.
die, I shall be happier to know that you desire to die
to see you happy in the near view of death." He
then said, " Well, God has brought me now where
[raising his eyes as he spoke] I long to have him take
me to himself, and to the holy about his throne. I
should love to live on with you, and do things for your
comfort ; and I think I could do more than I have
done to render you happy." Having been unwilling
to increase his pain by an allusion to her own sorrows,
she had hitherto refrained from an expression of them,
and, as far as possible, had appeared cheerful when in
his presence ; but now she could not refrain from giving
free vent to her grief, saying, " Notwithstanding, hus-
band, I am glad to have you rejoice to die if you must
die, still I feel that / can not live if you die. I go into
my little room beside yours, and frequently spend the
whole night in weeping." " Why, wife, you amaze me !
I did not suppose you felt so. You amaze me. You
must not do so. You must trust in the Lord. When
the time of the separation comes, he will sustain you ;
I know he will. Do not try to be prepared for it by
anticipating it, but leave all in the hands of God. Suf-
ficient for your day will be your strength ; and I think
it may be you have already passed the severest part of
the trial. Remember what dear Jane used to say to
us 'Keep looking to Jesus.'' At another time,
when he had become wearied with a little attention to
business, he raised his eyes, and said to her, with a
smile, " Oh, how sweet it will be when we have nothing
to do but to look at Jesus together, and are not troubled
with money matters ! " He often repeated the lines,
" 'Tis sweet to look beyond our pains,
And long to fly away ; "
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 361
and, as better expressing his own state,
" Sweet to lie passive in his hands,
And know no will but his."
The power to lie passive in such continued suffering,
with no relief by day or by night, was, to those who
attended him, manifestly the effect of sustaining grace,
derived from intimate communion with the Saviour.
Once, after an attempt to describe the distress in his
chest, raising one hand, and pointing with a finger of
the other to its palm, he said, " But those nails caused
greater suffering. Oh, yes, Christ has suffered much
more than this for me."
The 28th of January, which was the Monday pre-
vious to his death, his eldest son and wife left him,
with the intention of returning in a few days. In an
hour or two after they had left, a change came over
him which indicated the near approach of death. A
bed was brought into his sitting room, and, as he was
laid upon it, we all felt, as he doubtless did, that he
was laid down now to die. A telegram was immedi-
ately sent to meet the arrival of his son in New York.
He was told that it had gone, and asked if he had any
word to say for them, in case he should not be living
on their arrival. He looked thoughtfully a moment,
and then, with perfect self-possession, delivered a most
affectionate message for them.
He had before this had turns of sleeping, with hard
breathing, and when he awoke complained of this stu-
por, as he called it, and said, " I should be alarmed
by it if it were not for the fact that I have been, for
several weeks, almost deprived of sleep ; " and added,
" Perhaps some time, when I awake from it suddenly,
31
362 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
I may appear to you to have lost my mental faculties,
as I find it very difficult to articulate distinctly, and
hardly know whether I am using the right words to
express my ideas ; but wait until I am sufficiently
aroused, and you will find I have my mind perfectly,
and that I am just as well able to answer any question
about business, or any thing else, as I ever was in my
life." But on this day, and subsequently, he lay, not
asleep, but quietly ; much of the time with his eyes
closed, being too weak to make any effort, and appar-
ently unconscious of every thing that took place about
him. At one time, after arousing him, Mrs. Safford
asked, " What are you thinking about, as you lie ap-
parently so unconscious, seeming almost unwilling to
be disturbed ? " He said, in a faint, low whisper,
"Christ that great company." She asked, "Does
Christ seem very near to you ? " " Oh, yes ; some-
times I seem to see him as he is ; " and after a little,
added, " Oh, he said he would come ; " alluding to the
promise, " And if I go away, I will come again, and
receive you to myself, that where I am there ye may
be also." The Saviour was now manifestly fulfilling
these words to his servant. At another time, while
Mrs. Safford was sitting by him, he having been for
some time in this state, he suddenly opened his eyes,
and asked, " Is there music in this room ? " " No,"
she replied, " there is no music here." He looked so
much surprised, that she listened, thinking there might
be some in the street, but heard none. He said again,
with increased earnestness, " Do not I hear music ? "
She answered, " No, I hear none." An expression of
surprise remaining on his countenance, she said to him,
" It is heavenly music that you hear, if any." He
immediately closed his eyes, as if he would listen still.
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 363
His sufferings were from this time slight. Indeed,
he said, " I am so entirely relieved that I should al-
most think there were nothing in the way of my
recovery, were I to judge simply by my feelings."
But his limbs were very much swollen, as well as his
body, and his tongue was almost useless. The blood
coagulated, so that it appeared like drops under the
skin. It was suggested to him that he might be re-
lieved by cupping. " No, no," he said ; " I do not
wish any thing more done." On Friday, a letter was
received, addressed to him, from his brother-in-law in
New York. He was told of it, not supposing he could
listen to it. But he said, " I will hear it." The letter
was of considerable length he heard it all. In order
to test his ability still to be interested in the concerns
of his household, and the strength of his mental fac-
ulties, a question was asked for information from him,
which involved thought and recollection. He heard
the question, and then gave the information with per-
fect correctness. An order for the collection of div-
idends was to be written. Mrs. SafFord told him of it,
and asked if she could sign it. " You sign it ? " he
said, with surprise. She then said, " Mr. P. can, per-
haps." " Let him try it," he playfully replied. A
little while after, he asked to be seated in his chair.
" Now bring the order," he said. A pen was handed
him, and it was with great effort, which showed strik-
ingly the strength of his will and resolution, his name
was written by him for the last time. No business of
an earthly nature was attempted by him after this.
Mr. Palmer came in, and finding him perfectly sen-
sible, told him the result of the year's business, as
they had just completed the account of stock. He
364 MEMOIR OF DANIEL SAFPORD.
said, " Then subscribe for me the usual amount for
foreign missions." This was his last subscription
one thousand dollars. That evening, he asked his
wife to read to him the chapter giving the account of
Hezekiah's recovery and prayer ; which when she had
done, she asked, " Is there any thing here applicable
to your case ? " She wished to know if he had any
of that desire for life manifested by Hezekiah. He
simply said, " What he expresses about having walked
before the Lord with a perfect heart does not apply to
me." The same evening he said to her, pleasantly,
" Is there no little carriage we can go to heaven in to-
gether ? " alluding to the many rides they had taken in
company. She replied, " No ; I never heard of but
one being taken thus to heaven." " And that," he
added, " was a chariot of fire."
He sunk away again for some minutes, and on being
aroused, Mrs. Saiford said, " There is one question
more I wish to ask, which concerns only myself, if it
will not trouble you." " Ask it." " If you die, do
you not think it best, all things considered, for me to
wear mourning for you ? " He answered very dis-
tinctly, and with more strength of voice than he had
had for some time, " No, no ; I wish nothing done for
display nothing." He had months previously said,
in contemplation of his death, "I do not wish you to
go mourning for me all your days. I want to feel
that you will be happy without me, and to have you
take the course which will be calculated to make you
the most so." He had desired that a request for
prayer in his behalf should be sent to the church
meeting, saying to Mrs. Safford, " You know my feel-
ings sufficiently ; express them to Deacon P., who
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 365
will communicate them to the church." She said,
" You are willing they should pray for your life
are you not ? " With a little hesitation, he answered,
" Yes, not forgetting the ' nevertheless,' " in allusion
to the prayer of our Saviour, " Nevertheless, not my
will, but thine, be done."
That evening, after the family had left, and she was
alone with him, he said, " I am glad we are left alone ;
it is best that we should be alone sometimes. And
now, we will first pray together, and then we will talk
about some things which I wish to speak of, while I
have strength to do it." After the season of prayer,
he said, u I want you should remember, if I die, that
about funerals, and every thing connected with them,
my taste is for the greatest possible plainness and sim->
plicity." Mrs. Safford remarked, " The church will
probably wish a public funeral." He replied, " About
that your feelings must be consulted ; and about every
thing else. As to mourning, you know what my
opinion and my course have been. I should be sorry
to subject you to severe remark and censure. You
recollect the directions I gave you about the place
where my body is to lie when we arranged the lot, and
the kind of gravestone which is to be put up just
like the others." " Are you not willing," she asked,
" that yours should be a little larger and taller, to dis-
tinguish it ? " " No, not the least. I wish no distinc-
tion to be made." He then gave her his opinion and
advice about some business matters, and requested
that the family should remain living just as they were
for at least one year, without making any change, nor
even then, unless they preferred to do so.
On Saturday, February 2, he appeared to be but just
31*
366 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
alive, one eye being closed, and the other nearly so,
and it being difficult for him to swallow. As his wife
attempted to bathe his eye and moisten his mouth, he
said, " Oh, do not trouble yourself so much. You
think a great deal more about my eyes and throat than
I do. Lay me down at Jesus' feet, and let me die."
She said, " But I am afraid you will not be able to see
me if I do not wipe your eyes." Opening his eyes as
wide as he was able, he said, " Oh, yes, I shall ; I see
you perfectly ; I see you as well as I did several days
ago ; " repeating, with a smile, " Yes, I see you per-
fectly." He then asked, very seriously, " Have 1
died ? " He was answered, " No, you have never yet
left us ; you are in the body still." " Well," said he,
" let me die ; do not take me from Jesus' feet." It
was evident that his views of Christ and of heaven
had been so much more distinct and real than any he
had before had, that he was doubtful whether he had
passed through the gate of death or not.
It was so interesting to witness this state into which
he was brought, and his departure seemed so near,
that the family were called. As they surrounded his
bed, he was told that they were now all around him,
and asked if he could see them. His attention was
particularly called to his nephew, Rev. Mr. E., who,
he was told, was on his way to R., to commence his
new pastoral work. Receiving his hand, he said,
"The Lord bless you, J., and prosper you." His at-
tention was then directed to one standing near him,
who had not professed religion ; he said to her, " Make
Christ your friend, Jane." As their names were
called, he gave each a token of recognition, saying,
"I see you all everyone." Then closing his eyes,
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 367
he said, " Now lay me at Jesus' feet, and let me die."
Mr. E. proposed that we should sing the hymn,
" When I can read my title clear,"
with the chorus,
" Oh, that will be joyful,
When we meet to part no more."
He commenced moving his hand, in time with the
music, but it was soon apparent that he was absorbed
in what was to us invisible ; and during the remainder
of the day he was scarcely conscious of any thing
passing around him. Once Mrs. Safford said to him,
" I am beginning to realize the fact that you belong to
Christ, husband, more than to me." He replied,
" Yes, there are many reasons why I belong to Christ."
She said, " I shall want to live nearer to Christ than
ever, and then I shall know that I am near to you."
He caught the idea quickly, and with unusual dis-
tinctness and strength of voice replied, " Oh, yes,
that's it, that's it ; live near to Christ, and then we
shall be near to each other." Perceiving her noticing
the settling of the blood at the end of his fingers, he
raised his hand, now stiff and cold, and, passing it
across her cheek, said, " There will soon be no more
tears ; they will all be wiped away by that blessed
hand!"
Preparation having been made for the night, he was
told who would sit with him. He said, " I like him
for a watcher. And now, can not you give me up to
Christ, and go to bed and go to sleep ? " This was
said with so much earnestness that she could not but
reply, " Yes I can and I will." He said, " Do,
368 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAPPORD.
then ; " and, with a smile, he bade her his last " good
night."
The morning of the Sabbath dawned, and, unex-
pectedly to us all, found him in the body. As Mrs.
Safford approached his bedside, and inquired how he
had rested, instead of replying, he asked, " How are
you ? " and said, " Your health amazes mo ; with all
your care and anxiety, it amazes me." She said, " Do
you think you shall be in heaven to-day ? " He an-
swered, " I think I shall." His brother in Christ,
Deacon Palmer, came in, and remarked to him, " This
is a beautiful Sabbath." " Yes," he replied, " but
there's a nobler rest above." He was told, " Here is
your pastor, come to comfort you." He looked upon
him, and said, " Comfort ye, comfort ye my people,
saith your God ; " and then asked, " Can you tell me
how far it is over Jordan ? "
Miss G., one of the city missionaries, remained with
him through the day, and, just before noon, she read
to him the description of the New Jerusalem, in the
book of Revelation, which was the last of the written
word to which he listened. As he lay upon his bed,
utterances were from time to time escaping his lips,
showing that he was absorbed in the contemplation of
God, of Christ, and the invisible world. Once, he was
heard to say, " My work is done ; " again, " I shall be
satisfied ; I am satisfied now, but I shall be fully satis-
fied." His last audible expression, save a murmured,
" That is good," on receiving a cup of cocoa, was,
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Hallelujah ! " As
his head was laid back upon the pillow, it was discov-
ered that his spirit was departing ; the family were in
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 369
a moment at his bedside, but he breathed only once ;
his eyes were closed in death. ^f
Like an infant sinking to repose in its mother's arms,
so did he " fall asleep " in Jesus. We stood around
him gazing, but could only see the gentle closing of
the eyelids. We could not say, " Lord, if thou hadst
been here, he had not died," for we knew that the
Lord had been here through the whole. Neither could
we doubt that he had now taken his servant to him-
self; we could almost hear the rejoicings of kindred
spirits, as they welcomed him home ; and truly did we
" wish ourselves among them."
The silence of the room was broken by a member
of the family, standing at the foot of the bed, repeat-
ing the hymn,
" How blest the righteous when he dies
When sinks the weary soul to rest !
How mildly beam the closing eyes !
How gently heaves th' expiring breast ! "
A short prayer followed, by the nephew to whom he
had given his benediction, and thus the scene on earth
closed. Disease had sadly changed the once pleasant
and benign countenance ; but we could not look upon
it in its serene and holy peace, without hearing the
sweet voice of the Comforter saying, " So he giveth his
beloved sleep."
370 MEMOIR OP DANIEL SAFFORD.
l!kfr. Safford died on the Sabbath, February 3, 1856.
His funeral was attended at the dwelling house on the
Wednesday morning succeeding, at nine o'clock, fol-
lowed by public services at the church. The follow-
ing account of the latter is abridged from the Boston
Evening Traveller:
" FUNERAL OF HON. DANIEL SAFFORD. The funeral
of this respected citizen, lately deceased, was attended
this morning, at eleven o'clock, in the Mount Vernon
Church. The meeting house was crowded in all its
parts, and many were compelled to stand in the aisles.
The Prudential Committee of the American Board
of Commissioners for Foreign Missions occupied the
front seats, the relatives of the deceased and the
mourners occupying those directly back, in the body of
the house. The coffin, containing the body of Deacon
Safford, was brought in by three bearers, and placed
upon a table draped in black velvet, directly in front
of the pulpit. While the body was being carried down
the aisle, the choir chanted the words, ' I am the res-
urrection and the life,' &c. Dr. E. N. Kirk, the pas-
tor of the church of which the deceased was an officer,
read an appropriate and impressive selection of pas-
sages from the Scriptures ; after which the choir
chanted, ' Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.'
Dr. Blagden, pastor of the Old South Church, then
delivered an address, briefly recounting the chief
points in Deacon Safford's history and character ; and
closed with repeating the .beautiful lines of Bishop
Heber, ' Thou art gone to the grave, but we will not
deplore thee,' &c. The choir then sung, < Unvail thy
SICKNESS AND DEATH. 371
bosoin, faithful tomb.' After which, Dr. Nehemiah
Adams, of the Essex Street Church, offered an im-
pressive prayer, followed by the chant, ' Thy will be
done, through devious ways.' After the benediction,
an opportunity was given to the audience to look at
the face of the deceased, whose remains were then
followed to Mount Auburn by a large procession, in
carriages and on foot."
On the ensuing Sabbath, a funeral discourse was
preached by Rev. Dr. Kirk, from Rev. 3 : 12 " Him
that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of
my God ; and he shall go no more out. And I will
write upon him the name of my God, and the name
of the city of my God, which is New Jerusalem,
which cometh down out of heaven from my God ;
and I will write upon him my new name."
APPENDIX.
MR. SAFFORD'S death was noticed extensively in the pa-
pers of the city. The Boston Daily Traveller of February 4,
1856, contained the following:
" DEATH OF HON. DANIEL SAFFORD. We regret to an-
nounce the death of Hon. Daniel Safford, well known to the
citizens of Boston as one of our most respected and honored
citizens. Mr. Safford has filled various public stations with
much credit to himself. Some years since he retired from
active business ; and since then his tune and energies have
been devoted to labors of charity and benevolence. He was
president of the City Missionary Society, and took an active
part in other organizations having for their object the tem-
poral and spiritual welfare of the poor and destitute. He was
a man of enlarged practical benevolence. We have heard
it said of him, and we believe the statement is true,
that for some years past he has given away all his income
for benevolent purposes. His death will cause a loss which
will be deeply felt. Deacon Safford was sixty-three years
of age."
The Evening Transcript, of the same date, remarked,
" The name of the Hon. Daniel Safford appears in our list of
deaths, this evening. Mr. Safford was widely known for his
high personal character, and the interest he has always man-
ifested in religious and philanthropic movements. He filled
various public stations with great credit, and leaves a name
and example deserving of the most honorable mention."
(372)
APPENDIX. 373
Resolutions appropriate to the occasion were adopted by
various public bodies with which Mr. Safford had been con-
nected. The following are subjoined :
From the Mount Vernon Church.
BOSTON, February 9, 1856.
At a meeting of the Mount Vernon Congregational Church,
held in the chapel, Friday evening, February 8, brother George
W. Crockett, on behalf of a committee appointed by the
church, reported the following preamble and resolutions :
It having pleased the wise Disposer of all events to re-
move from the church on earth our senior deacon, the late
Hon. Daniel Safford, the surviving members, with a deep
sense of an irreparable loss, adopt the following resolves :
1. That we bow submissively to the divine will under this
afflictive dispensation, which has deprived us of an honored
leader and a beloved brother ; while we devoutly acknowl-
edge our obligations to the Giver of all good, who placed
him here as " a burning and a shining light," to the end of
his mortal life.
2. That we appreciate lus example and influence in all
that was noble and praiseworthy, and would cherish a grate-
ful remembrance of his wise counsels, liberal contributions,
and unceasing labors for our welfare ; and also of the kind-
ness and affectionate sympathy ever manifested toward us,
both as a private member and an officer of the church.
3. In his decease we recognize a loss to the community ;
and especially would we sympathize with the American
Board of Foreign Missions, the City Missionary Society,
the Mount Holyoke Female Seminary, and the Home for
Aged Females ; to all of whose objects so large a share of
his prayers and counsels, his labors and contributions, was
cheerfully given.
4. We tender our sincere sympathies to the bereaved
family of our deceased brother, with our united prayers that
374 APPENDIX.
He who is the widow's God and the Father of the fatherless
may be their comforter and portion.
The above resolutions were adopted unanimously, all the
members of the church rising as the question was put.
On motion, the clerk was instructed to enter them upon
the records of the church, and also to furnish a copy to the
family of the deceased.
Attest, LANGDON S. WARD,
Clerk of the Church.
From the Prudential Committee of A. B. C. F. M.
MISSIONARY HOUSE, BOSTON, February 6, 1856.
DEAR MRS. SAFPORD : I send herewith an extract from
our minutes of yesterday. It indicates our feelings very im-
perfectly, because it simply conforms to our established pre-
cedents. You will need no assurances, however, that your
departed husband had our entire confidence as a man and as
a Christian. Few are better prepared to die ; few, alas !
are so well prepared to live.
Sympathizing most truly with you and yours, I am, very
respectfully, yours, S. B. TREAT,
Secretary of A. R C. F. M.
At a meeting of the Prudential Committee, held at the
Missionary House, Tuesday, February 5, 1856, the opening
minute was as follows :
Hon. Daniel Saiford, a member of the Prudential Com-
mittee, having departed this life since the last meeting, the
following resolution was adopted, viz. :
Resolved, That, deeply sympathizing with the family of
our deceased friend and brother, we will make our arrange-
ments to attend his funeral.
Resolved, That a copy of this minute be transmitted to
Mrs. Safford. S. B. TREAT,
Clerk of the Prudential Committee.
APPENDIX. 375
From the Boston City Missionary Society.
BOSTON, March 11, 1856.
DEAR MADAM : The undersigned, privileged associates
of your late lamented husband in the work to which he de-
voted himself so unsparingly, beg leave to intrude so far
upon the privacy of your sorrows, as to communicate the
accompanying resolutions, passed at a meeting of the Board
of Managers of the Boston City Missionary Society, held
March 10th, and to assure you personally of their heartfelt
sympathy and abiding friendship.
To MRS. DANIEL SAFFORD.
Whereas, it has pleased Almighty God to remove by death
from our counsels and labors our respected and beloved Pres-
ident, the Hon. Daniel Safford,
Resolved, That we hereby record our acknowledgment of
his most valuable services in the cause of city missions ; our
obligations as pastors and members of the Evangelical Con-
gregational churches in. Boston, for his wise and efficient
efforts in this enterprise ; and our great sorrow at the loss of
one who had endeared himself in an extraordinary degree,
as a fellow-laborer and Christian friend, to all our hearts.
Voted, That the foregoing be entered upon our records,
and that a copy of the same, signed by the vice president and
secretary, be transmitted to Mrs. Safford, with the assurance
of our Christian sympathy and regard.
G. W. BLAGDEN, Vice President.
A. L. STONE, Secretary.
From the Board of Managers of the Home for Aged Indi-
gent Females.
IN BOARD OF MANAGERS, BOSTON, April 17, 1856.
Mr. Grant submitted the following, which was adopted
unanimously :
Whereas, since we last met, it has pleased our heavenly
376 APPENDIX.
Father to remove by death Daniel Safford, Esq., one of the
vice presidents of this association, we deem it our duty to
express our sincere respect for the character of the deceased,
and our deep sorrow for the loss which is sustained by us, in
common with the whole community.
Resolved, That the above be put on record, and that a
copy be sent to the afflicted family, as a feeble expression of
our sympathy in the loss they are called upon to bear.
A true copy from the records. Attest,
F. R. WOODWARD, Secretary.
From the New England Glass Company.
At a meeting of the Board of Directors of the New Eng-
land Glass Company, on Monday evening, February 18,
1856, the following preamble and resolutions were unan-
imously passed :
Whereas, in the providence of God, we have been de-
prived by death of the valuable services of our frien3 and
associate Director, the Hon. Daniel Safford ; it is hereby
Resolved, That, in testimony of our appreciation of his
high character and usefulness as a Director for many years
of this company, for his long, true, and devoted attention to its
interests, we sincerely mourn his loss, and direct this resolu-
tion to be placed upon our records. Also,
Resolved, That we deeply sympathize with the family of
the deceased, in the great loss they have sustained by this
afflicting bereavement, and that a copy of these resolutions
be sent to them by our clerk.
A true copy from the records.
JOSEPH N. HOWE, Okrk.
BOSTON, March 6, 1856.
At the annual meeting of the stockholders of the New
England Glass Company, held yesterday afternoon, the fol-
lowing preamble and votes were unanimously adopted :
APPENDIX. 377
Whereas, we have received intelligence of the death of
Deacon Daniel Safford, for many years an efficient Director
in this company,
Voted, That we look back upon his services with gratitude
and satisfaction, and that we feel we sustain in his death a
great loss.
Voted, That this resolution be entered upon the records,
and a copy be sent to his family by the clerk of the corpo-
ration.
A true copy from the record. Attest,
SAMUEL GOULD, Clerk.
from the Mount Vernon Association of Young Men.
At a special meeting of the Mount Vernon Association,
held last evening, the following resolution was unanimously
adopted :
Resolved, That in the death of Deacon Daniel Safford, of
Mount Vernon Church, we, as young men, recognize the
death of a sincere Christian, counselor, and guide, and of
one whose heart ever grew warm at the success and pros-
perity of our beloved association.
DANIEL D. ANDERSON, Secretary.
BOSTON, February 6, 1856.
The intelligence of Mr. Safford's decease was received
with profound grief by a very large circle of friends and
acquaintances. From the numerous letters of condolence
which were addressed to the bereaved family, a few passages
are selected, which may serve not only to show the estimation
in which he was held by them, but to exhibit a more com-
plete portrait of his character, as it appeared to those who
best knew him.
" I need not repeat to you," writes Rev. Professor Phelps,
of Andover, to Mrs. Safford, " what you doubtless hear from
all other sources how greatly, as Christians and Christian
32*
378 APPENDIX.
ministers, we feel the departure of such a man. We have
few such to lose ; and when one of them is taken, the great
cause which he loved so heartily seems to fall back on our
hearts with a heavier weight of responsibility. I do not
know of a death that has occurred in Boston since the de-
cease of Judge Hubbard, which has excited this feeling so
generally and deeply, as the death of Deacon Safford. We
never knew, till he was gone from us, how much his Chris-
tian gentleness and serenity had won upon our affections. I
think I speak the universal feeling of the ministry, in saying,
that we have respected other men ; we have trusted others ;
we have labored happily with others ; but him we have loved.
Dr. Kirk's affectionate tribute to his worth touches the hearts
of us all."
" 1 could write much of his character and worth," says
Rev. Dr. Hallock, of New York ; " modest,- self-sacrificing,
retiring, laborious, persevering, unwearied, liberal, ever seek-
ing others' good but you know it all far better than I.
The death of very few, if any one, in Boston, could be more
felt in all that pertains to the interests of the Redeemer's
kingdom, and the best temporal and eternal welfare of men.
I bless God for all he enabled him to do."
A former superintendent of the Moun^ Vernon Sabbath
school says of Deacon Safford, " His characteristic zeal, mod-
esty, and liberality were in exercise continually, in connec-
tion with his Sabbath school labors. He was always the first
choice of the teachers for superintendent ; and, though he
was induced to fill that post for several years, he would al-
ways have preferred a subordinate position. His sympathies
led him to search for the poor, the most needy and most
ignorant, and bestow on them his more abundant labors.
Opportunities to do good unobserved were thus opened to
him, which were eagerly embraced ; nor did he wait for such
opportunities to offer ; he made them.
" In the autumn of 1850, he spoke with the writer respect-
APPENDIX. . 379
ing the disuse of committing the Scriptures to memory, which
was then, and still is, so deplorably prevalent. ' What can
be done,' he asked, Ho induce our pupils to commit the
Scripture references to memory, so that the questions can be
answered without turning to the chapter and verse, to read
them?' After conversation over the matter, he made the
following proposition that I, as superintendent, should an-
nounce to the school that a gentleman, whose name I was
not then at liberty to mention, had offered to present a Bible
to each pupil of the school, who should recite perfectly a
specified number of verses every Sabbath for one quarter.
" The announcement was made, and the teachers requested
to keep an accurate record of the recitations. The result
was, that a general impulse was given to this excellent
method of learning Sabbath school lessons, which continued
throughout the year. At the close of the first quarter, an
aggregate of fifteen thousand eight hundred and seventy-six
verses had been recited. One pupil had committed, in the
thirteen Sabbaths, five hundred and sixty verses, and several
others a very large number. Thirty-one pupils received
each a large volume of the Scriptures for having learned
over twenty verses every Sabbath, and thirty-five a smaller
volume for having learned over fifteen verses each week.
The sixty-six Bibles were purchased by me at his request,
so that neither the seller nor the recipients of the Bibles
should know the benevolent hand that furnished the money
to pay for them."
380 APPENDIX.
MR. SAFFORD' S PROPERTY AND CHARITIES.
The impression has extensively prevailed among those
who judged only from the number and amount of his dona-
tions to benevolent purposes, that Mr. Safford possessed
great wealth. Such was not the case. The publishers of
this Memoir have obtained permission to extract from his
private account books. the following memoranda, which will
show the facts on this subject. They do this for the purpose
of demonstrating how much may be accomplished for good,
with very moderate means, if there be first a full and entire
consecration to the Lord ; and also how strikingly he oft ful-
fills the declaration of his word, " There is that scattereth,
and yet increaseth."
It has been mentioned (p. 104) that Mr. Safford early
formed a resolution no longer to accumulate property, but to
give his whole income, except what was needed for his sup-
port, to the cause of Christ. That resolution, as it stands in
his own hand on his book, was as follows :
"In view of the numerous calls for benevolent contributions,
and my accountability to God as a steward of his bounty, I
here record my determination to give all my future earnings,
and all the income of my property, after defraying the ne-
cessary expenses of my family, to such charitable objects as
shall most commend themselves to my judgment ; while I
would continue to pay suitable regard to economy and in-
dustry. DANIEL SAFFORD.
January 27, 1832."
The whole amount of his property, of every kind, at this
time, deducting his debts, is recorded as forty thousand one
hundred and sixty-seven dollars. Two years later, having
received, by his marriage with Mrs. Turner, some addition to
that sum, he adds, in his record,
APPENDIX.
381
" I consider it consistent with my determination, recorded
in 1832, to add that amount to the sum to which I then lim-
ited myself; considering, hereafter, all over forty-five thou-
sand dollars as consecrated to the Lord."
This resolution was faithfully observed during the re-
mainder of his life. At the close of each year he made a
careful inventory of his property, and whatever excess ap-
peared beyond the prescribed limits was entered against
himself as " due to charity." The entire amounts thus paid
by hmi for this purpose during thirty years, were as
follows :
1827
. . .588.04
1842 . .
1125.25
1828
1829
. . 717.75
. . 791 62
1843. .
1844 . .
'. 820.25
964.00
1830
. . 595.99
1845. .
1874.37
1831
. . 404.75
1846. .
3249.34
1832
. . 1540.30
1847 . .
2476 05
1833. ...,
1834
. . 1053.15
. . 2206.91
1848. .
1849 . .
3581.50
1819 42
1835
. . 3428 60
1850 . .
3024 87
1836
1837
. .6017.14
. . 4153.15
1851. .
1852 . .
4939.07
4303 57
1838
. . 1898.78
1853 . .
5303.03
1839
. . 4544.98
1854 . .
2584.40*
. . 1293.33
$70,825.29
This expenditure for benevolent purposes was not made in
a few large sums only, which could not fail to attract notice
by their liberality. It was the aggregate of numerous small
benefactions, for the most part unknown to all but the giver
and the recipients. We may, for the sake of example to
others under similar responsibilities of Christian stewardship,
so far intrude upon the sacredness of his private record, as to
show the items mentioned for a single year, that of 1837,
a year memorable for the distress which prevailed in the
commercial world :
* Thin year also he gave to his two Rons five thousand dollars each.
APPENDIX.
JANUARY.
Monthly concert, $1.25
Student, for books, tuition, and
board, 111.60
Poor oil man 5.00
Two poor widows, 3.00
City missionary, cloak, .... 2.00
Foreign Missionary Society, . 500.00
Contribution, Andover, .... .50
Given, 2.00
Poor woman, provision store, . 2.00
Poor widows, 6.50
Tract Society, 20.00
Divinity student, 60.00
FEBRUARY.
Monthly concert, 1.25
Carriage, 1.00
Poor, 2.25
Education Society, 300.12
Books, &c., given 2.00
Given, 12.75
Do., 3.00
To A female member of F.
Street Church, 5.00
MARCH.
Divinity student, 50.00
Founder of Mt. Holyoke Sem., 6.50
Poor family, 1.25
Seamen's Friend Society, . . . 10.00
Mount Holyoke Seminary, . . 500.00
Monthly concert, 1.00
APRIL.
Monthly concert, 1.00
Poor man, 25.00
Poor woman, . . . ' 50
Given, 2.12
Do., 3.00
Deacon G., 25.00
Infant School Society, 2.00
Corban Society, 2.00
Colored woman, 1_10
Bible Society, 2.00
Given, 12.00
Female member F. St. Church, 1.00
MAY.
Paid for tuition, &c., 87.60
Monthly concert, 1.25
Spring St. Church, 1.00
Student's expenses, 17.00
Clergyman, anniversary week, 50.00
JUNE.
Monthly concert, 1.00
Clergyman, 10.00
Clergyman's wife, 5.00
Given, 3.00"
Poor family, .40
Sufferers by the fight, 10.00
JULY.
Monthly concert, 1.00
Moral and Religious Society, . 101.00
Prison Discipline Society, . . . 20.00
Poor family, 20.00
Miss Lyon 50.00
Sundries, Mount Holyoke Sem-
inary, 75.00
AUGUST.
Poor family, 15.00
Poor woman, &c., 6.00
Divinity student, 50.00
Given on visit, ........ 6.00
Given, traveling expenses, . . 22.00
Two dresses to girls, 4.10
Contribution, Sunday school, . 1.50
Pew rent at Franklin St. Church, 21.00
SEPTEMBER.
Student at college, 104.00
Do., suit of clothes, 43.44
Monthly concert, 1.00
Clergyman's family, 130.00
Paid stage, &c., 5.00
Poor widow, 5.00
Mr. C., missionary, ....... 10.00
OCTOBER.
Monthly concert, 2.00
Home Missionary Society, . . 50.00
Jews' Society, 5.00
Poor widow, 10.00
Poor widow, 2.00
Seamen's Friend Society, . . . 3.00
Sabbath school library, .... 32.58
NOVEMBER.
Mount Holyoke Seminary, . . 262.75
J. G., 20.00
Poor family 5.00
APPENDIX.
383
Penitent Refuge, 5.00
Sailor boy, 1.00
Given, Thanksgiving, 10.34
1.25
5.50
Year's pew rent, F. St. Church, 21.00
Subscription, do. 100.00
Poor woman, 2.00
Sabbath school children, . . . 3.00
DECEMBER.
Monthly concert, 2.50
German Church, 5.00
Sewing circle, 1.00
Mrs. A., life member 2.00
Barlow, 1.00
City missions, 5.00
Poor family, 20.00
Given, 50
Student, 90.75
Tracts and other books, .... 12.00
Poor family, 1.00
Notes to sundry persons,* . . 612.00
Poor woman, 5.00
Mount Holyoke Female Sem-
inary, 300.00
Total, 4,153.15
By his last will, Mr. Safford gave each of his sons five
thousand dollars, making, with the sums given in 1854, ten
thousand dollars each. The remainder he left to his wife,
adding, in a separate note to the latter, " If, at my decease,
my property should amount to more than forty-five thousand
dollars, my desire is, that all over and above that amount
should be sacredly devoted to such benevolent objects as you
may think will be most pleasing to God. I do not wish it to
be all given at once, but at such times as you may think
expedient D. SAFFORD."
From a notice of Mr. Safford in the Congregational Quar-
terly, for January, 1861, written by Rev. Mr. Langworthy,
we extract the following anecdote :
"In 1848, the American Board was deeply in debt. At
the annual meeting, held in Boston, an earnest effort was
made to pay off, or, at least, to greatly reduce this debt, then
and there ; and strong and touching appeals were made with
this noble end in view. Subscriptions were volunteered and
announced from time to time, varying from one hundred to
one thousand dollars each. Deacon Safford was seen to
enter the house, go directly to his pastor, speaking with him
for a moment. His pastor went immediately upon the plut-
* These were for loans to young men and others, and were now relin-
quished.
384 APPENDIX.
form, and spoke to the treasurer of the Board, who soon
announced another subscription of five hundred dollars, but
he gave no name. It was natural enough to suspect Deacon
Safford as the giver, from what had transpired. To one
knowing his habits of giving or pledging all his probable
income before so late in the year, there was a natural curios-
ity to know how it came about. So the writer, dining with him
that day, half seriously and half playfully, finding him alone,
inquired how it was. Throwing his arm around him, and
drawing him close to his side, as he often did, he said, ' You
know Peter, and the carriage I got for Mrs. Safford. They
are hers; but she is now better. When I listened to the
condition and wants of the Board at the Temple, I thought I
must do something. If we should sell Peter and the car-
riage, we could give five hundred dollars. So I ran home
and asked Mrs. Safford, and she said, " Yes." Then I went
back and made the subscription ; but I did not mean it should
be known from whom it came.' The sacrifice in feeling and
convenience to both was great, and especially to Mrs. Saf-
ford, as her health was far from being restored ; but it was
cheerfully made, as unto Christ ; and it is worthy of remark
that, in this case, the will was taken for the deed by Hun for
whose sake it was done. A propitious Providence enabled
them to pay their subscription, and, after all, keep their
favorite horse."
THE LIBRARY
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
Santa Barbara
THIS BOOK IS DUE ON THE LAST DATE
STAMPED BELOW.
Series 9482
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