^^y iBiliiiiSffil'S" "'""v 3 1924 074 321 013 ^ LI3RDATE DUE ^y NUV 2'^ ZuU'D QAYLORD PBINTEO IN U5A. The original of this book is in the Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924074321013 /0«s2.-t_t:^-z-'C_-<;^S?z.<> , THE MODEL PASTOR. A MEMOIR LIFE ANB CORRESPOJS'DEIS^CE REV. BARON STOW, D.D., LATE PASTOR OF THE ROWE STREET BAPTIST CHURCH, BOSTON. BY JOHN C. STOCKBRIDGE, D. D. BOSTON: LEE AND SHEPARD, PUBLISHERS. NEW YORK : LEE, SHEPAED AND DILLINGHAM. 1871. Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, By ELIZABETH L. STOW, In the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. Stereotyped at the Boston Stereotype Foundiy, No. 19 SpriDg Laoe. MEMBERS OF THE THREE CHURCHES OP WHICH DR. STOW WAS PASTOR, 8C^s 0olnme IS AFFECTIONATELY DEDICATED BY THE EDITOE. PREFACE. This volume is a compilation. The editor has en- deavored to make such a selection from the mass of materials placed in his bauds as, in his judgment, will interest the largest number of readers. In the journal of Dr. Stow there is an entry which has been kept con- stantly in miud in the preparation of this Memoir. It bears the date of October 3, 1829. "Reading memoir of Legh Richmond, by Grim- shawe. The compiler shows himself too much. A biographer should leave his biography to be executed by another." Scrupulous care has been taken to bring out in full relief the man whose life we have tried to portraj', let- ting him speak to us in his journal and correspondence, and through the activities of a long, laborious, and successful professional life. A feeling of continual regret has followed the editor, through his whole ^ork, that he has been obliged to omit so many things that he would gladly have laid before his readers, and which, he doubts not, they would have read with pleasure. (S) b PEEFACB. Restricted, however, as he was, to one volume, and therefore obliged to say all he wished to say within what appeared to him to be such narrow limits, he has sacrificed his personal wishes to the suggestions of the publishers of the book. Special thanks are due to the friends of Dr. Stow who have prepared the delightful reminiscences which will be found in this volume. Nor would it be just to omit to notice the excellent service performed by Kev. S. F. Smith, D. D., whose good taste in the selections made from the very voluminous journal of Dr. Stow entitles him to our warmest praise. No one more deeply regrets than does the editor that Dr. Smith was unable, on account of impaired health, to complete the work, upon the performance of which he entered soon after the decease of Dr. Stow. May the divine blessing accompany the publication of this volume, with all its imperfections, leading all its readers to adore that grace which wrought so wonderfully in fitting him whose character it delineates to perform such blessed service in the church of the living God. J. C. S. Fbovidence, B. I., March 1, 1871. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Parentage. — Baron SiEnsEN. — YonTHroi Development. — Conversion. — Death of his Father. — Correspondence WITH Alonzo Kino. — Enters Columbian College. — Remi- niscences BT Rev. E. HnTCHiNSON 13 CHAPTER II. Columbian College. — College Life. — Journal. — Fbeachino TocB into Virginia. — Retden to his Studies. — Journal. 27 CHAPTER III. Visit to New Hampshire. — Last Year in College. — Recep- tion OP General Lafayette. — Journal 40 CHAPTER IV. Anxieties about the Future. — Graduation. — Editor op the Columbian Stab. — Life in Washington. — Marriage. — Reminiscences by President Caswell 49 7 CONTENTS. CHAPTER V. Calls to settle in the Ministkt. — Accepts the Invitation TO Portsmouth, N. H. — Ordination. — Jouknal. — Calls TO Salem, Mass., and Watekville, Me. — Uegent Appeals FROM President Chaplin 59 CHAPTER VI. Last Year in Portsmouth. — Invitations to remove to dif- feeent Places. — Journal. — Call to Baldwin Place Chdrch, Boston. — Letters from Rev. J. J). Knowles and Dr. Sharp. — De. Lamson on Db. Stow's Ministry in Portsmouth 75 CHAPTER VII. Sketch of the Histort op the Baldwin Place Church. — Personal Reminiscences. — Installation. — Success in his Work. — Journal 87 CHAPTER VIII. Elected Secretary of the Triennial Convention. — De- clines. — Journal. — Correspondence. — Letter to the Baldwin Place Church. — Journal 99 CHAPTER IX. The earnest Worker. — Longings for a Revival. — A use- ful Sermon. — The great Revival of 1838. — Gathering IN the Harvest. — Missionary Discourse. — Death op Pro- fessor Knowles Ill CONTENTS. 9 CHAPTEK X. Reaction. — Lettek to Deacon S. Beal. — Physician pre- SOKIEES Rest. — Continued Labos. — Colony sent to Bow- DoiN Squaee. — Effect on his Mind. — Tkip to Europe proposed. — Embarkation. — Correspondence. — Journal. . 128 CHAPTER XI. Impeovbd Health. — Letter to the Baldwin Place Church. — Naples. — Rome. — Northern Italy 150 CHAPTER XII. Ceossino Mont Cenis. — Geneva. — London. — Visit to Bae- LET Wood. — Embarkation for Boston. — Home again. — Called again to the Presidency of Waterville Col- lege. — Elected Secretary of the Triennial Convention. — Revival of 1842. — Its Results. — Physical Prostration. 168 CHAPTER XIII. Coeeespondence between 1836 and 1845 183 CHAPTER XIV. Call to the Presidency of Geanville College, Ohio. — Discouragements at Baldwin Place. — Call to the Ninth Street Church, Cincinnati. — Advice of Dr. Sharp. — Let- ter op Rev. John Stevens. — Embarrassments of the For- eign Mission Board — Correspondence 197 CHAPTER XV. A. busy ministerial Life. — Anxiety with eeference to his Church. — Journal. — Resignation 215 10 CONTENTS. CHAPTER XVI. Eeminiscences op Baldttih Place CunucH. — Coebespond- ENCE. — Cali. to the Piekrepont Street Church, Brook- lyn, N. Y. — Call to the Rowb Street Chdkch, Boston. — Acceptance of the latter Call. — Journal 225 CHAPTER XVII. Chalmers's Memoir. — Inner Life. — A Harvest Year. — The Spiritual Physician. — Record op twenty-five Years. — Death op Dr. Sharp. ^ " Pirst Things." — Call to Brook- line. — Letter to the Executive Committee op the Mis- sionary Union. — Record op the Year 243 CHAPTER XVIII. Correspondence. — Fourth Invitation to the Presidency op A College. — Journal. — Death op Edward D. Chamber- LiN. — " Christian Brotherhood." — Second Voyage to Eu- BOFE. — Journal while abroad. — Home again 257 CHAPTER XIX. Reminiscences by Dr. Child, — Letters from Europe. — Cor- respondence , , . . , 273 CHAPTER XX, Ministerial Work recommenced. — Discouragements. — Rem- iniscences OP Anniversary Periods. — The Daric Days op the War. — Conflicts of Feeling. — A happy Surprise. — Journal. — Criticisms on Robertson, Bowles, and Hugo. — Views on '-Evangelism." — Ravages op Death. — Review. 301 CONTENTS. 11 CHAPTER XXI. Called to an Account. — Correspondence. — Resignation of THE Pastorate op Rowe Street Church. — Call to Alton, Illinois. — Letter of Advice from Ministering Brethren. — Decision to remain in Boston. — Correspondence. . . . 313 CHAPTER XXII. Connection with the Watchman and Reflector. — His last Article, " Calvinism a Power." — Sickness and Death. — Funeral. — Letters from President M. B. Anderson, Dr. W. Dean, De. R. Fuller, and De. B. Sears 333 o X El MEMOIR OF BARON STOW, D.D. CHAPTER I. Parentagb. — Baeon Steuben. — Youthful Development. — Con- version. — Death op his Father. — Correspondence with Alonzo King. — Enters Columbian College. — Eeminiscenoes BT Ebv. E. Hutchinson. 1801-1822. The subject of this Memoir was bom at Croydon, N. H., January 12, 1801. His father, Peter Stow, was bom in Graf- ton, Mass., June 21, 1771, and his mother, Deborah Nettleton, in Killingworth, Ct., February 11, 1775. The family of which Peter Stow was a member were pio- neers in a new settlement, and their occupation that of farm- ing. Having an eager desire to acquire knowledge, he availed himself of such books as he could obtain, and improved all leisure hours in study. The only periodical then taken in the town was one small weekly paper. At an early age he com- menced teaching, and for several successive years devoted the winter season to that employment. "When twenty-one years of age, Peter Stow became a sub- ject of renewing grace, and united with the Baptist church, where, until death, he maintained a consistent Christian char- acter, and was prominent as a faithful member and officer, winning the confidence and respect of all who knew him. The town honored him with the office of first selectman for many years in succession. He was also representative to the 13 34 MEIIOIK OF DE. STOW. legislature. " The poor," says his son, " found in him a ready benefactor, the rich a welcome visitor, the afflicted a sympa- thizing companion and counsellor. As a husband he was kind, affectionate, appreciative ; as a father, strictly exem- plary, judiciously indulgent, implanting in the hearts of his children an abiding impression that the homage and respect divinely inculcated were fireeminently due to such parents as God had given them." Peter Stow seems to have cherished an admiration for the memory of Baron Steuben, so well known as a Prussian officer, who came to this country in 1778, and distinguished himself in our revolutionary war. He had resigned the high offices of government which he held at home, and, by the persuasion of Count de St. Germain, French minister of war, and of other gentlemen connected with the French cabinet, with whom the baron had come in contact while in Paris, he came to this country at the age of forty-eight, " a soldier of fortune," says Irving, " to the rude fighting-grounds of America, to aid a half-disciplined people in their struggle for liberty." It is easy to conceive that the advent of such a distinguished military officer, once the aide-de-camp of the great Frederic himself, landing on our shores at a time when our affairs were in their most desperate condition, must have formed a theme of conversation, not only in the larger circles of city life, but in the rural homes of the dwellers in the villages and hamlets of the land. Peter Stow was a boy of nearly seven years of age when this event took place. For several years the baron was identified with the fortunes of his adopted country, and his career was undoubtedly watched with deep interest in every section of the land. We find that as late as 1789 he was present at the inauguration of President Washington. It is believed, either because he was pleased with the name, or because he had a high appreciation of his services, that Peter Stow called his first-born son Baron Steuben Stow. The middle name was subsequently dropped, and this son was known as Baron Stow. We have been able to glean but few facts concerning his YOUTHFUL DEVELOPMENT. 15 early days. In childhood there began very soon to be devel- oped traits of character which made him a boy of mark. He was fond of study, and was blessed with a memory so reten- tive that he made himself master of whatever he intrusted to that important faculty. His partial, fond friends, observing the progress he made, were wont to make the remark, " That boy is destined for a statesman or a minister." Writers of biography almost always see, or think they see, in the early developments of the intellect and tastes of the subjects of their sketches the sure prognostics of their coming greatness. We read that, when Chalmers was three years old, one evening, after it had become dark, he disappeared, and search being made for him, he was found alone in the nursery, " pacing up and down, excited and absorbed, repeals ing to himself, as he walked to and fro, the words of David, ' O, my son Absalom ! O, Absalom, my son, my son ! ' " Says his biographer. Dr. Hanna, " Almost as soon as he could form or announce a purpose, he declared that he would be a minister. The sister of one of his school-fellows at Anstru- ther still remembers breaking in upon her brother and him, in a room to which they had retired together, and jBnding the futui*e great orator (then a very little boy) standing upon a chair, and preaching most vigorously to his single auditor be- low. He had not only resolved to be a minister, but had fixed upon his text — 'Let brotherly love continue.'" In like manner, we are told, the youthful Baron began " to exercise his gifts," as our fathers used to say, and that, even at the early age of five years, he showed what was the bent of his inclinations. Not far from the house of his father, by the road-side, there was a boulder of considerable size, which was called " the pulpit." Ascending " the pulpit," the boy- preacher, having called around him an audience of his play- mates, would act the sacred orator, exhibiting a gifV of elocu- tion and a command of language which made him quite the admiration of his listeners. When he was eight years of age his father moved from Croyden to the adjoining town of Newport, where he had 16 MEMOin OP DR. STOW. purchased a farm. Here the lad attended the district school. We judge that he was a boy of delicate organization, not for- ward in the sports of his schoolmates, but more disposed to study than to play. Apt to learn, and passionately eager, like his father, to acquire knowledge, his progress in his studies was rapid, and he invariably took the highest rank in his class, easily keeping the position which he gained. So in- satiable was his thirst for reading, that at the age of fourteen he had read every volume in the town library. A boy of so pre- cocious intellect could not fail to make for himself a warm place in the heart of his proud, loving father. With tender solicitude he watched the unfoldings of his mind, and resolved, if it was in his power, that his son should enjoy all the advan- tages of a liberal course of study. But he was a farmer, and a farmer among the cold hills of New Hampshire, where the most earnest and untiring efforts are necessary to secure often- times no more than the ordinary comforts of life. The labors of his son, now reaching an age when greater physical strength was developed, were demanded to assist him in carrying on his farm. And yet, as the obedient, respectful child, who would not thwart the wishes of his parent, toiled by his side, there would, ever and anon, rise a mental vision of the future career which might be his boy's, if he were prepared, by study and discipline, to enter upon it. In the intervals of rest from the labors of the farm, books were the recreation of the lad, and he was never happier than when poring over the pages of some favorite author. A dark, sad day was it when death entered that quiet rural home, and, when Baron was fifteen years old, removed from him his best earthly friend, the proud, happy father, who had laid out so many plans for the future welfare of his son. At a single stroke the hope of obtaining an education seemed to be overthrown. As the eldest son in a family, now con- sisting of a wido\yed mother and five children, grave respon- sibilities immediately came upon him. The means for obtain- ing a support for these dependent ones must come from the farm. With a pang of regret more bitter than can be de- niS EAELT CONVERSION. 17 scribed, the fatherless boy, abandoning the idea of getting an education, at least for the present, turned his attention to the paternal patrimony, which had been bequeathed to him. He resolved, with his characteristic ardor, that he would spare no pains to secure the means of support for the family, which now looked up to him as their natural protector and friend. At once lie began to lay his plans for improving the farm, or rather, for carrying out those commenced by his father. Al- though he gave himself most conscientiously to this work, the old aspirations would be aroused in his soul. The love of knowledge could not be suppressed. As opportunity pre- sented, he would return to his beloved books, determined to supply the want of a more public education by his persistent efforts for self-culture. The work of the farm engrossed his attention during the summer ; but the greater leisure of the winter months afforded him an opportunity to avail himself of the privileges. of the district school. At length he has so far mastered the studies to which he has applied himself, that we find him, in the autumn of 1818, when not eighteen years of age, engaged himself in teaching a country school. Not far from this time there was an interesting revival of religion in Newport, and among its earliest subjects was young Stow. "Without giving a minute detaU of the circum- stances of an event transcending in importance any other that was to occur in his history, it is enough to say that his con- victions of sin were deep and thorough, and his view of sal- vation through a crucified Saviour clear and satisfactory. As might be well supposed, from our knowledge of the sin- cerity of his views, he did not long delay in making a public profession of religion. On the last day of December, 1818, in company with fifteen happy converts, he was baptized by Rev. Leland Howard, of Windsor, Vt., and united with the church in Newport. The new impulse which was thus given to his whole nature made him pant more than ever to go forward in the work of training his faculties, that he might bring to the Redeemer, who had so largely blessed his soul, the best gift which he 2 18 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. could lay upon his altar — a cultivated intellect, along with a regenerate heart. Who can describe the conflict which was carried on in that sensitive soul between the claims of filial affection and duty to his widowed mother on the one hand, and what, on the other hand, seemed to him a call of God, coinciding with his own inclinations, to enter upon the work of preparation to preach the gospel? The sti-uggle was at last ended. The heart of a loving mother yearned over him, whom, though recognized by her as her son by natural bu-th, she had come to regard in a higher and holier sense, as a " son of the Lord God Almighty." Interposing no objection, but rather giving him her maternal benediction, she sent him to Windsor, Vt., where he put himself under the tuition of Rev. Mr. Howard, who so recently had baptized him. With this Christian brother, who proved to be his life-long friend, he remained a year. And here seems the proper place to speak of one of those early friendships which Baron Stow formed, similar, in its warmth and sincerity, to many others which he formed in later years. Among his acquaintances was a young man of about his own age. In many respects they were kindred spirits. Both had that delicate, sensitive organization which in both was the eource of the exquisite enjoyment, and, we may say, of the keen mental suffering, of which at times both were aUke the subjects in their maturer life. Both were refined in their tastes by nature and by cultivation. Both had fine intellectual abilities, although Mr. Stow always gave the precedence to his friend in this respect. Circumstances, evi- dently providential, called the one to fill a more prominent sphere than the other occupied ; but the Boston pastor never ceased to look up to his friend, who, wasted away by con- sumption, died as the minister of what was then a humble church of a quiet village in the interior of Massachusetts. The friend to whom I refer was Alonzo King, the gifted compiler of the Memoirs of the sainted missionary George Dana Boardman. The earliest letter which I find in the mass of correspond- XETTEB TO ALONZO KING. 19 ence from which I shall have occasion to draw, was written by Baron Stow to his friend King. It bears the following date, and is reproduced just as it was written. WiKDSOK, May H, 1819. Brother King : Having an opportunity to convey a line directly to Cavendish, I will devote a few moments in writing to a friend whom I esteem in sincerity. Through the mercy of God we are all alive and in good health, enjoying unmerited favors and privileges. Brother Ely and myself are now construing in the New Testament. Brother E. says, " We are prospering marvellously" (his manner of speaking). It is a very pleasing study, rich and sweet. The English appears like husks to the Greek. God is still the Lord, gracious and long-suffering. Let us proceed, leaning upon the arm of the great " I AM." There appears everything to discourage me when I look upon one side of the case; but cast these behind, like Satan, and nothing but encouragements ap- pear. So I am changeable as the wind ; but God's will be done, what- ever it is. " Pax fratribus et caritas cum fide a Deo Patre et Domino Jesu Christo." — Paulus. Vale. Baron Stow. While thus pursuing his studies at Windsor, Mr. Stow had no prospect of obtaining a liberal education. His plan was, after remaining for a time with Mr. Howard, to commence at once the work of the ministry. Pro^^dentially meeting with Rev. Dr. Baldwin, he was won by the genial, sympathetic manner of one who always loved to encourage his yoimger brethren, and disclosed to him his purposes, and solicited his advice. His wise counsellor urged him not to stop short of a collegiate course of study, and prophetically remarked, " Per- haps you will some day fill my place." Nothing is easier than to give advice and to tell a young man, strugghng to get an education, to go forward, and yet, to point out no way by which, for years, he is to pay his bills, seems almost a cruel mockery. The good people of N"ew Hampshire used to say to Dr. Baldwin, at the close of a hard Sabbath's labor in preaching, " Well, Brother Baldwin, you have been very kind to come among us to-day. The Lord will never let such a good man as you are want for anything." All which was 20 MEMOIR. OF OR. STOW. very pleasant, but it would not fill up the flour barrel, nor keep the wolf from the door. Happily, in giving his advice to his good friend, Dr. Baldwin was able to point out a way by which he might defray his expenses. His mind set at rest on this point, he went forward in the work of preparation for coUege. The correspondence with his friend IQng, in the mean while, is kept up. It exhibits the wannth of his religious feelings, and shows how earnestly his heart is being enlisted in what is to be the great work of his life — the preaching of the gospel. Windsor, Monday Evening, December 13, 1819. Dear Bkother King : "As I was musing, the fire burned." My unstable imagination, wandering up and down the earth, at last fixed itself upon my little circle of friends in Newport, and there fastened, immovable. I fancied Brothers F. and King surrounded by those who can speak of the dying love of Jesus, while I myself, a poor, despised creature, am in Windsor^ grovelling in the midst of a valley of dry, dry bones, surrounded for six hours in tlie day with about thirty or forty souls, who are bound up in sin and slumbering in carnality. But, thank Heaven, I find the same God here as there, and I think, for a few days past, I have found him precious to my soul, through the merits of his Son. 0, what a blessed Jesus is brought to light in the gospel ! For the first three evenings after I began my school, I studied my Latin Grammar ; but since that I have laid it aside for the precious volume of truth. It is a dry study now. Six evenings out of the seven has the " midnight oil " been consumed in my lamp. One evening I was at Mr. Howard's at a prayer meeting. O, blessed employment, to pray to God ! I am now boarding at a place where little or nothing is said about heaven or divine things ; therefore I have no company but my God and my Bible. Perhaps you think me enthusiastic, but " Sweet is my frame. And I'll bless Jesus* name; Though men bcoIT and jeer, Yet men 1 don't fear." Yesterday I went to meeting with such feelings as my soul never felt before. Joy, peace, and consolation filled my heart. I could not forbear relating my exercises to others. But how was I surprised to see ilr. Howard introduce a Boanerges into the pulpit ! 'Twas Leland, the judge. He prayed. The moral heavens appeared opened, and the Spirit descended. He preached : " They that trust in the Lord shall be CORRESPONDENCE. 21 as Mount Zion," &c. Silence and solemnity pervaded the assembly. In the evening he preached to a great number, Psalms Ixii. 5 : "My soul, wait thou only on God, for my expectation is from him." My soul was fed with the finest of the wheat, and with honey out of the rock was I satisfied. How fleeting and transitory are all earthly enjoyments ! Alas, how often have I forsaken the substance, and snatched the wind ! How often have I broken tlie commandment, " Thou shalt have no other God before me ; " and again, " Love not the world, nor the tilings that are in the world." I have found, by sad experience, that " if any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." O, can I ever reach heaven? Yes, " The blood of Jesus is free, and cleanseth from all sin." Trust in tlie Lord, then, O my soul, and take his yoke upon you. Learn of Jesus, who is meek and lowly in heart, and rest, unceasing rest, shall be your portion, while ages shall roll on ages, and time be lost in the vast ocean of eternity. Vale. Yours in Christ our Lord, B. Stow. Passing over the next year or two, during which he was occupied with his preparatory studies, we find him acknowl- edging the receipt of another letter fi-om his ever-constant friend. From this letter we form an idea of the vast changes which have taken place during the past fifty years in the facilities of travel. At that period how far distant from their homes did those seem to be, who had gone a few hundred miles ! WaterviUe College had been but recently founded, and Mr. King was among its first stu- dents. From the mountain home of his friend Stow, it seemed as if he had departed to some far-off region of the earth. Newport, N. H., March 17, 1821. Mr Deab Brother: " What pain unusual thrilled my heart. When you and I were called to part, Perhaps no more to join In praising God within the doors, Till passed beyond these mortal shores To kneel before his shrine." I acknowledge the receipt of your friendly letter, which arrived here in twenty days after it was written. It was more than w.as ex- pected, K. It was a favor which I could not deem myself worthy from your hands, or any friend situated at such a distance. The letter was 22 SLEMOIE OP DE. STOW. mailed at Kochester, N. H. , so that you may well think I was aston- islied, upon breaking the seal, to discover the name of my heloved brother Alonzo. I was somewhat disappointed to find that you had not written the particulars of your journey and voyage, as also your situa- tion at Waterville, and the studies you were pursuing. But I have since, in a degree, been informed with respect to your passage and safe arrival at your destined residence. As I think my desires and enjoy- ments are, in a degree, bound up in your joys and prosperity, I am sorry to find that you did not feel that contentment and satisfaction you would wish. I am not able to sympathize with you, having never passed through the scene of forsaking parents and friends to traverse unknown lands, a stranger to every mortal creature, and depending on the charity of others for maintenance. Yes, I feel for you, and endeavor to remem- ber you in my feeble petitions at the throne of grace, that you may be supported in your situation, enjoy the comforts of the Holy Ghost, that God would smile upon your labors to obtain both human and divine science, and in all things your trust may be in God alone. O that I could visit you, whether it be in your study, in the house of God, or in the gloomy wilderness ! I would unbosom to you, with satisfaction, a series of joys and sorrows, through wliich I have passed since the sor- rowful evening of your departure, I taught school the winter past in Unity, near Brother Oilman's. Had a pleasant season. The Lord has graciously wrought wonders in that place a few months past. Several have been baptized, and others cherish a hope of eternal life. In Claremont truly the work of the Lord is powerful. Brother Kimball, from Marblehead, Mass., is preaching there to the Baptist church. After alluding to several other places in which there are revivals, he adds, — That happy scene is drawing nigh, when " Jeaua shall reign wherever the sun • Does his successive journeys nm." O, may it be hastened, and we be prepared I Unworthily yours, B. Stow. The next communication is written in a sad strain. Some of its gloom is doubtless attributable to a morbid state of mind, brought on by excessive application to study. As we shall have occasion to see, all through life, Mr. Stow was sub- ject to these fits of depression and self-depreciation. Persons of his peculiar temperament rarely escape them. CORRESPONDENCE. 23 Newport, N. H., April 30, 1821. Beloved Brother : I received your interesting favor of March 28, on Friday last. Though I did not endure much trouble, fearing you had forgotten or possessed a disposition to neglect me in the least, yet I was apprehensive my letter might be mislaid, or have gone to the President of the United States, or in some other improper direction. Truly I was highly gratified, on seeing the mail opened, to find another communication from friend A. K. I perused its exhilarating contents with a cheerful heart. I had been confined to my room for several days by indisposition of body, but your cheering language and mani- festations of unalterable sympatliy gave a vigorous spring to both soul and body, and almost transferred me from a sick bed to the beloved society in Waterville, and to the embrace of an absent friend and broth- er. I feel to endeavor to answer your epistle so far as my weak capaci- ties will allow ; but never expect to find in me the ability to express such ecstatic raptures of soul as flowed from your pen. The friendship we have contracted, I trust, is inviolable ; but truly I often feel, K., it has not on my part " Christ for its foundation." I often fear a separa- ' tion will ere long take place, more trying and sad than we have ever yet experienced, and I must depart to the left hand and you sit at the right hand of our ofifcnded Judge in the burning day ! Still I hope — but how dare I hope, while the pride and arrogance of my heart are so great? Am I doing my duty in thus confining the powers of body and soul down to the dead languages ? But I hope soon to be released from ttie trammels of Cicero, Graeca Minora, and Sallust. My health is such that I often think the Lord never intended me to obtain a collegiate educa- tion ; and alas, how many poor souls, during that time, will go down to perdition ! But should I find prosperity, I shall probably enter either Harvard University, or Middlebury College, Vt., at next commence- ment. O, pray for me, that I may be humble and lead an exemplary life. 'Tis a joy to me to correspond with such a friend. Cease not to counsel me, and may we pray for each other's growth and prosperity in time and eternity. Your friend indeed, B. Stow. The time had arrived when Mr. Stow must decide the ques- tion, at what college he should pursue his studies. It may be interesting, as it corresponds with the exi^erience of so many other young men, to note the perplexity into which he was thrown when he came fairly to meet the question. A letter to his Waterville friend reveals the struggles through which he passed in reaching the decision to which finally he 24 MEMOIR OP DE. STOW. came. We see in this communication the ardor of his feel- ings, and his earnest desires to enter upon the great work of preaching the gospel, leading him to doubt whether he ought to devote so much precious time in gaining merely secular knowledge. Newport Academy, August 9, 1821. Brothee a. i Your last came to hand safely and jofuUy. I had long waited with impatience for an answer to my inquiries. That sub- ject has greatly agitated my mind at times, and almost deprived me of rest. I find it of great moment to decide upon a place where to reside four years. And my anxieties have been greatly heightened by the obsequiousness of correspondents at different literary institutions. I have been urged by some to enter Yale — by Brethren Elliott and Rice at Harvard — by General Forbes and others in Vermont, at Middle- bury, Vt. Visiting Hanover a few weeks since, I was beset and thronged with arguments in favor of Dartmouth. Some even venture to recommend Columbian College, at Washington, as preferable to all. At some of the aforesaid institutions, expenses are so high as will pre- clude the idea of my pursuing a collegiate course with them. Others, not so respectable either in moral or literary character, render it un- pleasing. What can I do ? Waterville is too far situated from friends and home to attract me thither, unless advantages far exceed other colleges. My mind seems, however, to settle on Middlebury, Vt. as I have received some charitable offers from the patrons of that in- stitution. That grows extremely in respectability, and promises fair to excel many that now stand high in the esteem of many literati. Pro- fessor Patton has just arrived from Europe, whither he was sent to receive his education on purpose for the professorial office. Board is there from one dollar to one dollar and twenty-five cents per week, tuition twenty dollars per year, and room rent six dollars. If Provi- dence will, I hope to enter there in the spring. I should enter this season, but, having read most of the studies of the first quarter, I think to teach school five months between this and the first of March. Thank you much for your frankness in answering my inquiries. Affectionately yours, , B. Stow. Notwithstanding his decision to enter Middlebury appeared to be final, circumstances seemed providentially to point to Columbian College, Washington. His health was delicate, and it was thought that a milder climate might be beneficial to him. It is evident that he had overworked himself. In KEMINISCENCES. 25 one of his letters he speaks of having suffered from a severe attack of inflammation in the head, by which he was deprived of his reason for nearly a week, and confined to the house for almost three weeks. Having recovered from this attack he began, with earnestness, to consider all the reasons which were to govern him in the decision of the question, where he should spend the years of his college life. He concluded to go to Washington. He became a member of Columbian College in September, 1822. Perhaps this chapter cannot better be closed than by pre- senting extracts from reminiscences of the early life of Mr. Stow, furnished by one of his warmest friends, Rev. E. Hutch- inson, of Vermont. " The name of Baron Stow brings up most precious memo- ries, which extend back forty and fifty years. From child- liood it was my privilege to know and love the good man who bore that honored name, for he was my teacher, pastor, and life-long friend. His first effort at teaching was in my father's school district, in the year 1818. There he began to show forth those great powers of mind which so remarkably distinguished him in after years. His accurate scholarship, thorough discipline, and wonderful faculty of drawing out his pupils and making them think for themselves, made his first teaching a sure success. During that winter occurred the great event of his life. The church were enjoying one of those old-fashioned revivals, or ' reformations,' as they were called, so common a half century ago, continuing two and three years, when God's people could, in the language of the old patriarch, 'stand still and see the salvation of God.' The young schoolmaster felt the Spirit's convicting power, but determined to resist it. At length the eventful evening came. The young people met for prayer at the house of the pastor, and he was induced to attend, resolving to close his heart against all influences that might be brought to bear upon him. The house was crowded, and the divine Spmt was there in mighty power. As one and another of his associates spoke, he trembled and resisted. At length the 26 MEMOIK OF DE. STOW. pastor's little son was brought from his dying bed, by his own earnest request, to speak to his young friends of the love of Christ. All hearts melted, and God made the last message of that dying boy the means of salvation to Baron Stow. He at once raised the altar of prayer in his school, and as that young man bowed for the first time in prayer with his scholars, many of whom were older than himself, the stoutest hearts were subdued, and the majority of them were brought to Christ. He immediately became an active worker in the revival, and was soon looked upon by his elder brethren as designed of God for the Christian ministry. "His baptism, which occurred soon after, was beautifully im- pressive, and is fresh in my recollection. It was midwinter. The ice was cut in the charming Sugar River, and the great congregation surrounded the place of burial ; and as good Elder Howard buried him with Christ in baptism, and raised him from the watery grave, hundreds of voices joined in sing- ing those favorite lines, — " Christians, if your hearts be warm Ice and snow can do no harm ; If by Jesus you are prized, Rise, believe, and be baptized." COLUMBIAN COLLEGE. 27 CHAPTER II. Colombian College. — College Life. — Jodenal. — Pbeacuing TouK INTO Virginia. — Rettjkn to his Stddies. — Journal. 1822-1824. As a member of Columbian College, Mr. Stow at once was brought in contact with congenial society. The change from the quiet scenes of his home among the hills of New Hamp- shire to the capital of the country must have been very great. He was now almost twenty years of age. He had learned the lesson of self-reliance, and had known something of the strug- gles and discipline through which a young man passes, who is seeking, with few resources, to obtain an education. Thus his character was in a good degree matured, and there was every reason to believe that he would derive the greatest benefit from the coui-se of study upon which he was now entering. Columbian College was the child of the Baptist Triennial Convention. Professor Ganmiell, in his excellent History of American Baptist Missions, says that " the constitution -)f the new society" — the Tiiennial Convention — "was framed with but little experience, and almost without the aid of models ; yet it was, perhaps, well suited to the condition and spirit of the denomination as it then was in this country. It originally contained provisions only for the support of foreign missions, but, at subsequent meetings, it was modified in several important particulars, and made to include both domestic missions and the establishment of ' a classical and theological seminary ' for the education of young men espe- cially for the gospel ministry. The introduction of this latter object into the organization of the convention had its origin 28 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. in the deep sense of the importance of a well-educated min- istry, which at that time pervaded the minds of the fathers • and the leading men of the denomination. This provision of the constitution gave rise to the estabhshment of the Colum- bian College at "Washington, D. C, an institution which was managed by the Triennial Convention." The first president of the new institution was Rev. Dr. Staughton, who was elected to this office, and entered upon its duties, in 1821. No man more thoroughly possessed the confidence of the denomination, or occupied a higher rank as an eloquent preacher of the gospel. The influence which Dr. Staughton exerted on the susceptible mind of the ardent, warm-hearted young man who had come under his supervis- ion, was of the most positive and permanent character. A prince among pulpit orators, he left the impress of his teach- ings and his example on the whole professional life of his pupil. Other men who have gained a reputation in the de- nomination, who were connected with the college at the period of which we are writing, were Dr. Irah Chace, Dr. Alva Woods, Thomas Sewell, M. D., Professor William Rug- gles, and President A. Caswell, among the professors, and Dr. R. Babcock, Professor J. D. Knowles, Professor T. J. Conant, and Dr. R. E. Pattison, among the tutors. Among the classmates of Mr. Stow were Dr. R. W. Cushman, Hon. Thomas D. Eliot, and Professor James Jones. With several of these gentlemen Mr. Stow's relations, during his whole life, were of the most intimate and endearing character. The following letter to his old fi-iend and correspondent, "Alonzo King, is in his most pleasant vein, and happily con- trasts with the somewhat morbid communication found in the first chapter. It gives us an insight into his college life and experience which we are glad to find. Columbian College, D. C, March 1, 1823. Deab Brother King: Your poetic effusion came safe to hand January 10, and ever since I have been inyoking the muse ; but she is as contrary as a yoked pig. She will not be compelled, and if I succeed INSIGHT INTO COLLEGE LIFE. 29 in allowing her to follow, she hobbles sadly, and tumbles over every stick and stone. I thought of Polyphemus (I don't mean Brother Caleb) and iEneas, but you had spent all the force of epic on them, and I dared not approach the terrific scene of tlie eyeless, long-legged monster chas- ing the poor tempest-beaten Trojans through the SicUian waves. I thought of Nimrod, and Cain, and Titus ; but Lord Byron had stolen them away. I thought of Newport, and mused, and found somewhat to dedicate to Melpomene, but none to Venus. Juno, the goddess of mar- riage, and Diana, of , claim a part. 'Twould be a motley mess. I looked around on the groves, the hills, the great river, the Capitol, the shades of Mount Vernon, &c., &c., but imbibed not one poetic feeling. And rather than give you blank verse, or rhyme upon stilts, I deter- mined to answer in stiff, old-fasliioned prose. Alonzo, were you not really at home when you wrote last? I was, when I had read your letter. O, I am at Newport every time Somnus infuses her papaverous influence, and more than once in a week do I salute my dear brethren and friends in the land I have left. Home thrills in my soul, and draws forth a vain sigh for its comforts and pleasures. They are marrying and giving in marriage ; some removing to other lands, others to " the land of silence and of death." A variety of feelings possesses my soul at different times. Yes, Baron is still the same old variable creature. I have not the same hypochondria as for- merly, though often low-spirited. My duties are such as employ every moment of my time, and leave no leisure for moping melancholy. By the request of the publishing committee of the General Convention, I have undertaken to conduct the Latter Day Luminary. This occupies every leisure hour. Dr. Staughton has just closed a course of lectures on natural history. These were very interesting. For seven weeks we have been per- mitted to go one day in a week to hear the debates in Congress, and the pleas in the Supreme Court of the United States. Many of these have been instructive and animating. This letter shows us what he seldoiii reveals to us — the playful side of his character. The daily duties which he was called to perform, and the pleasant surroundings of his new home, had their influence on his mind, and took his thoughts out of the channel in which they so frequently ran. Some extracts from his journal reveal his inner life, " the life hid with Christ in God." They furnish us, moreover, some hints which fill up certain gaps in his history, which we know not how otherwise to fill. 30 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. June 16, 1823. I now enter upon the twenty-third year of my life. Twenty-two years have passed rapidly, and, I may say, unprofitably. Four years since I professed to know the Lord, and commenced the highly responsible and sublime work of preaching salvation to sinners. One year ago to-day I preached in Goshen, N. H., bade adieu to friends in Newport Village, previous to leaving for the south. It was a trying scene. May it never be repeated. But here I am in my college course, with many intervals of pleasure; preaching occasionally. Negligent as ever in other duties. I dare not resolve again to devote myself wholly to God's service. I long for complete holiness. Gracious Heaven, purify and increase this desire. Humbly may I ever lie at my Redeem- er's feet. May my intellectual improvement be great, but my spiritual be far greater. June 21. Walked from the city this morning. Attended the meet- ing of the society for missionary inquiry. Much interested. A genial shower fell last evening, which makes all nature revive. The breezes are truly pleasant. O that the breath of Heaven would blow upon my soul, refreshing my thirsty graces I I am parched in a land of spiritual drought. June 23. Preached yesterday in the College Chapel, from 2 Cor. iv. 5, with enjoyment. One year this morning I sailed out of Boston harbor for the south. At this hour (midday) was moving very pleas- antly down the Cape. It was Sabbath. What were my feelings ! W hat have I since been doing? How little have I been thankful for a life preserved from the dangers of both sea and land. July 9. Yesterday was our semi-annual examination. Succeeded as well as I expected. My class (the Sophomore) was thoroughly ex- amined in Horace, Plato, Xenophon's Memorabilia, Aristotle's Philo- sophic works, Blair, and Legendre's Geometry. In Horace I was somewhat lame ; in all other parts was well prepared. Twenty-six weeks of successive toiling at books. Now the respite will be pleasant. I expect to take charge of the Star, a papoi* that has been under the direction of Brother Knowles. Engagements to preach are numerous; Heaven grant me that humility and zeal for God which shall make me truly faithful. May I ever remember that great examination day when God shall try me. July 11. Weather exceedingly warm. My mind greatly alienated from divine things. Too fond of other books, to the neglect of the Bible. I desire more conformity to God, more holiness, and more preparation to serve him. July 18. Lonely. The college is now nearly vacated; two tutors and one student beside myself remain. I have two reasons for so doing — one, that I may have full leisure to attend to the Star and Luminary; another, to keep alive our Sunday schools, and maintain JOUENAL. 31 divine service on the Sabbath. Retirement is, however, profitable, if rightly improved. I have health, I have books in abundance round me. What want I more? Alone, I can pray, read, and meditate at any hour. If Christ be with me, how can I be melancholy ? July 20. Air cool and refreshing. Genial showers have refreshed vegetation. When plants are parched and drooping beneath scorching beams, how delightful to see the rains descend from heaven, and raise them to life and vigor! So the Christian rejoices, when travelling through this dry and barren waste, to see a cloud of mercy rise and pour down the divine blessing on the heritage of God. July 26, Saturday. Busily engaged all this week. The Star and Luminary employ almost my whole time ; nor do I then make them appear as I could wish. Here I learn my weakness and ignorance. Sometimes I am tempted to think I am " somewhat," but when seated to write an article for the public, then I feel how insignificant I am. August 2. Time closely occupied in editing, and visiting friends; little time for reading and meditation. Last summer vacation I studied languages, preached often, and attended prayer meetings. This, I preach little and pray less. August 3, Sabbath. Great comfort in prayer. Saturday evening, August 16. Fatigued and overworked. Con- template relief next week, by a trip into Virginia with Brother Cas- well. Embarrassed in my pecuniary affairs, but in a worse condition of soul. I preach so little, and so seldom engage in public religious ser- vices, that I am growing dull and formal ; butin private have some sweet seasons, perusing God's word, and imploring the divine blessing. Such periods are my greatest comfort and joy. The smiles of a Saviour's countenance, how lovely, how enrapturing I "God is love." Sabbath, August 17. Preached in the Chapel, from Luke xiii. 5 — an unusually pleasant season. To-morrow, or the next day, set off, with Rev. O. B. Brown and tutor Caswell, for Virginia. These extracts, despite the self-depreciution which is so often expressed in them, exhibit the subject of tliis Memoir as a busy man, not only carrying on his college studies with such success as to keep him at the head of his class, but edit- ing a paper, and preaching as occasion oifered. We rejoice with him that a respite, short, indeed, but so beneficial, has come from his long-protracted labor, and that his energies are to be recruited amid the hospitable homes of Old Virginia. The journal continues, — Tuesday, August 26. This day week set off for Virginia. First 32 MEMOIE OF^DE. STOW. night, stopped at Mr. Edmond's, Alexandria — heard Rev. O. B. B. preach in the evening. Next day, went to Dumfries, passing Accatanli Run, Pohick Church, Neabses Run, Occoquan River, &c., in Fairfax County, into Prince William's County. Tarried at the house of Cap- tain Pairfax, in Dumfries ; heard Rev. Mr. Bryce preach. Next morn- ing, took breakfast with Major Toulson, near Chapawansick. Arrived at Rock Hill, Stafford County, at eleven A. M. Met the Columbia As- sociation. Rev. Robert Latham preached the introductory sermon, from Gal. vi. 14 (rank Antinomian). Tarried with Mr. Tacket two nights, and one with Colonel Mason ; treated with true hospitality. Ten ser- mons were preached at the stand by Brethren Caswell, tutor in Co- lumbian College, D. C, from John xv. 24; Bryce of Alexandria, from 1 Tim. i. 15 ; Raynolds, of Ninevah, from John i. 1 ; James, of Pred- ericksburg, from Col. iii. 3; Garnett, from the Shiloh Association, from Matt. xvi. 18 ; 0. B. Brown, from Washington, text Romans viii. 28; Johnson, of Little Palls, Isa. Iviii. 1; B. Stow, Columbian Col- lege, text Ezek. xxxiii. 1 1 ; Joseph Ballard, Columbian College, 2 Cor. T. 10; fl. O. Wyer, Columbian College, Rom. i. 15. I preached Sunday, the 24th, at twelve and a half o'clock. Immediately set out on my return, in company with Brother Prettyman, of Alexandria (Brother Caswell hav- ing left the day before, via Harper's Perry). Dined at Major Toulson's ; preached at candle-light at Dumfries; staid the night with Brother Pair- fax ; next day dined at Alexandria — arrived at College Hill at sunset, refreshed in body and mind. The roads are bad, but the people kindly affectionate. Many years after this, Dr. Stow wrote a sketch of this preaching tour, a part of which may be worthy of a place here, as illustrating Virginia hospitality, and the amusing incidents to which it sometimes gave rise. After a hard and almost break-neck ride of twelve hours, we reached Dumftries, and, as introduced by Luther Rice to one of his resting-places, we were cordially welcomed for the night by Brother Fairfax. He had already received a large number bound on the same errand. He had not out the sign of country inns in France — " Loge pour cheval et pied," where horse and foot lodged under the same roof, and sometimes in the same apartment, but he had large hospitality, and that night it was exorbitantly taxed. An appointment for preaching had been given out, and we all went to hear a " strange brother " hold forth. The singing was congregational, led by one whom we knew, and who, with abundant power of lungs, " gave out the lines," two at a time. On retiring for the night, the ladies occupied all the beds, and the KETUEN TO WASHINGTON. 33 sixteen gentlemen, of whom ten were preachers, camped on the parlor floor. The men, disposed to make the best of their imperfect accom- modations, were rather jocose, and indulged in story-telling that inter- fered with slumber. At length, by general agreement, all was hushed, and one o'clock found the most of us beginning to sleep. But one old gentleman had a thought, and he must needs violate the compact. So he called out, " Brother Grub, Brother Grub, you are the bestest man to give out a hymn that I ever hearn." This was too laughable to admit of rebuke for the disturbance, and further quiet was out of the question. So we went on the next day to the place of meeting, hoping to double our rest the following night. The absence was brief, but so thorough a change from the usual course of his every-day life, and the religious work in which he was engaged, greatly " refreshed him in body and mind," and he returned to Washington, in some measure pre- pared to enter with fresh zeal upon his college studies. His journal shows that he was not idle during the few days that intervened between the last date and the commencement of a new term. August 29. Reading North American Review, and Johnson's Lives of the Poets. The Bible to-day is a sealed book. Por several days have too much neglected closet devotion. 'Tis impossible for me to live without much prayer. My conscience smites severely; what is worse, ray soul shrivels and becomes barren. September 4. Preached last Sabbath eve for Rev. O. B. Brown; text, Luke xiii. 3. Endeavored, with as much seriousness and earnest- ness as possible, to teach my hearers the nature and importance of true repentance. Some deny the obligation of sinners to repent, consequent- ly the propriety of preaching the doctrine. Others say, if repentance be the gift of God, how can man repent? Others think they need no repentance; and indeed it is far easier dealing with such than either of the other classes. Notwithstanding all these hinderances, I am com- missioned to preach the word to all men indiscriminately. I hope to do it with affection and fidelity, whether men will hear or forbear. Although Mr. Stow entered college in 1822, he was so well prepared, and had applied himself so diligently to the prescribed course of study, that he soon passed into the Sophomore class, and was a Junior at the commence- ment of the new year, 1823-24. He begins the year in 3 34 MBMOIE OF DE. STOW. a happy frame of mind, and takes up his college work with his wonted ardor and determination to excel. Those great alternations of feeling, which, all through life, were so marked a feature of his character, are ever showing themselves, both in his letters and in his journal. Much of his depression, as in the case of that eminent servant of Christ, whom, in many respects, he so much resembled. Rev. Dr. Payson, of Portland, Maine, must be attributed to his peculiarly sensitive organiza- tion, and is to be set down to the account of hard intellectual work and the exhaustion of nerve power. He was consti- tutionally prone, at times, to look on the dark side of things. All his ideals were of the loftiest kind, and it pained him that he fell so far short of reaching them. No man could dwell with more pathos on the riches of the divine mercy, or more glowingly set forth the blessed truth that where " sin abound- ed, grace doth much more abound." In terms of exultation, when addressing others, he could assure the downcast and the disconsolate, that " like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame, he remembereth that we are dust." But the sweet .promises which he could always apply so successfully to others, he could not always claim for himself. Was he singu- lar in this respect ? September 13. Have entered again upon my college studies. Health greatly improved, spirits buoyant ; my principal embarrassments are in pecuniary affairs. Among such friends as I have here, however, I fear neither starvation nor nakedness. Four years and a half I have been well supplied by a. good Providence — still trusting him. Here again I wish to renew the solemn vows I have made to my Maker. O God, I would glorify thee. Keep worldly ambition (that cursed thing) far from me. May I lay all ray talents and all my attainments at Jesus' blessed feet. May this desire inspire me to improve every moment to the best advantage. September 21. Bilious fevers are now very prevalent. My tem- perament is rather pulmonary than bilious ; a slight cold often irritates my lungs, and produces fever, which, in several instances, has well nigh terminated in consumption. About ten years ago this season, my dear father, who was then at Concord as representative for his native town, took a severe cold, — not more severe than my own at the present time, — JOUENAL. 35 which, three years after, terminated his life by a complication of dis- eases. Perhaps my days are destined to be ended by a similar process. With me, it is all the same. I pray Jesus to accept me. September 22. Letters from dear friends in Newport. My dear cousin William Heath was, I learn, buried in baptism on Sunday, the 7th. October 6. Yesterday heard Dr. Staughton preach two excellent sermons, A. M., at the chapel; text. Matt. xv. 28, in which he con- sidered, 1. Suppliant; 2. Solicitation; 3. Embarrassments met by sup- pliant; 4. Success. The discourse was simple and plain, but melting. Speaker's sensibilities were greatly moved, as were those of the assem- bly. The evening text was Job xl. 9. His eloquence is frequently too powerful for me. It often gives me pain by exciting my feelings too high. If I covet anything, it is his preaching gifts. October 10. Heading Memoirs of Fuller. Much interested in the peculiar character of the man. The biography discloses very little of the private character of Mr. F. It presents the journal of the good man's soul, represents him as a worthy pattern of devotion and en- lightened zeal — preaching, writing, travelling, and collecting for the mission at Serampore. October 15. To-day finished Memoirs of Fuller. He was a man of prayer. His was a life of devotion and toil, and now in heaven he meets the reward of his labors. Let me imitate such good examples. November 10. Different Protestant congregations assembled with the Sabbath schools in Georgetown, when » large assembly was ad- dressed on the importance of giving to youth religious instructions. Eev. Mr. Mcllvaine, Episcopal, spoke first, in a very eloquent, impres- sive manner, followed by Rev. Mr. Mines, Presbyterian, of Leesburg, Va.,Eev. Charles Davies, Methodist, of Baltimore, Eev. Dr. Staughton, Baptist, of this college. A collection of thirty-eight dollars was taken for the benefit of the schools. November 20. Thanksgiving day in some of the New England States. How many have this day assembled, in obedience to the re- quest of their rulers, to praise and adore God ! My heart is with them. May the practice of my forefathers be long perpetuated. November 21. The anniversary of my father's death. My thoughts fly homeward. Does not my dear mother think of that hour when she was stripped of her companion ? Is not this a solemn day to her ? God has been her comforter ; in him may she ever trust. December 6. Called to mourn the loss of Professor E. B. Craven, professor in botany. His aged parents are bereaved of an only son, and science mourns the premature loss of one of its brightest lights. Saturday evening, December 13. Unusually busied, arranging for 36 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. Gemi-annual examination on Monday. After that, we look for rest to body and mind, a while. Tuesday, December 16. The confusion is over. I had a part original — " The eflFect of certain causes on the development of genius." Though not well, I was enabled to perform my part easier and better, I hope, than I anticipated. May I watch and pray against every vain thought, making all, improvements subservient and subsidiary to the cause of " Him who has redeemed me." If I improve in the powers of reason- ing, writing, or eloquence, may my sole object be to use my acquire- ments in the great life work of persuading men to believe on the Lord Jesus. Thursday. Last evening attended a levee at Dr. Staughton's, where were the JFaculty, some of the trustees, and the young gentlemen who exhibited the day before, entertained in the politest manner. December 25. To multitudes this is a day of feasting ; some there are, doubtless, who feel the kindling of devotion, sincerely thankful to God for the gift of our Saviour I would at all times be devotional, and remember that for me " the babe was born in Bethlehem." Monday, December 29. Engaged to-day in writing an address to the students, on the subject of the " Struggle of the Greeks to obtain their liberty." Much is now doing in the United States for their relief; stu- dents in particular are urged to show their patriotism by contributions. My zeal and enthusiasm in this cause reproach me, for they rarely are BO deeply engaged in pleading for tlie cause of my beloved Lord. January 2d, 1824. Yesterday attended the president's levee. The crowd of people was immense, all anxious to pay their respects to the chief magistrate of the nation. The company, moreover, was very re- spectable, all the proceedings were conducted with propriety and deco- rum. The president appeared to great advantage, welcoming all who ap- proached him with great ease and familiarity. His cabinet were all pres- ent except Mr. Crawford. General Jackson was one of the company. He is very easy and polished in his manners. There were considerable show and display, but much less than I anticipated. The thought struck me. How readily do men do homage to an earthly ruler ! but when the Prince of Peace claims their attention and respect, they obstinately re- fuse him altogether. January 16. College re-opened. Attended Congress to-day, and heard Henry Clay, of Kentucky, on roads and canals. He was powerfully el- oquent. Saturday evening, January 17. Addressed the students in College chapel, on the " Greek Revplijtion." Arrangements were made for aid- ing thenf by contributions. Friday noon, February 6. Attended United States Supreme Court. JOUENAl. 37 Heard Mr. Oakley of New York, plead the right of his stata to monopo- lize its waters, and grant to individuals the exclusive right of navigat- ing these waters, as it had done in the case of Livingstone and Fulton with their steamboats. Mr. Webster spoke for th6 plaintiff (Mr. Gib- bons) the day before. Mr. Oakley is counsel for the defendant (Mr. Ogden). February 11. Five years ago to-day, commenced my studies, prepar- atory to the great work before me, with Brother Howard, at Windsor, Vt. What has been my improvement? How have I advanced in holiness and zeal for the Lord of Hosts ? In many respects I fear I am more sinful than at that period when I left my parental roof to prepare to act my part on " the world's wide stage." I have just commenced to make im- provement. I hope yet to make gradual and profitable advances. The kindness of my heavenly Father has exceeded my most earnest petitions. I feel this evening a glow of love to my blessed Redeemer for his excel- lency and loving- kindness. I feel disposed to unite with etherial worship- pers, honoring him as " God over all, blessed forevermore." Amen. Sunday, February 15. *' Welcome, sweet day of rest, That saw the Lord arise," The brethren students have a prayer meeting every Sabbath morning, at nine o'clock, to invoke the blessing of God on the services in the chapel. In these meetings I have more real enjoyment than in all the preaching through the day. I delight to hear the truths of the Bible explained and enforced upon the conscience ; but this is not communion with God ; 'tis more the work of the understanding ; prayer is the feeling of the heart- conversation with a kind indulgent Parent. My closet is too much neg- lected ; I do not derive a tithe of the blessings from it I might. My mental enjoyment through the day is generally in proportion to the degree of devotional feeling in the morning. February 19. Engaged in intense study — Paley's Theology, and Lacroix's Analytic Geometry. My health is now so good that study is both easy and pleasurable. February 20. Heard Mr. C. J. IngersoU in the Supreme Court, General .Jackson in the Senate, and Mr. Trimble, of Kentucky, in the House. Wrote a communication fliis evening for the Columbian Star, recommending a Baptist Tract Society, first Suggested by Brother Samuel Cornelius, pastor of the Baptist church in Norfolk. Wednesday, February 25. Attended the formation of the Baptist Tract Society. A constitution was adopted and the following officers chosen: Rev. O. B. Brown, President; Rev. John Bryce, Vice-Pres- ident ; Mr. George Wood, Agent ; Rev. Luther Rice, Treasurer ; Mr. Isaac G. Hutton, Secretary. Directors, Rev. Dr. Staughton, James 38 MEMOIK OF DE. 6T0W. D. Knowles, Joseph Shaw, Joseph Gibson, E. Reynolds. Annual Meet- ing, last Wednesday in February. Sabbath evening, February 29. This morning heard Mr. Mcllvaine. of Georgetown, preach a most powerful sermon, from Matt. xxt. 46. He is the most evangelical, faithful Episcopal preacher I ever heard. March 5. Reading Griscom's Year in Europe. Many of his moral reflections are very judicious, and show he has a philanthropic heart. He deplores most heartily the causes and effects of our war. Sabbath, March 21. The past week, have been very busily engaged in my studies and the concerns of the Seminary. I feel quite unfit for the devotions of the holy Sabbath. Bead several chapters in Isaiah this morning. He is that prophet that said, in reply to the interrogations of the Almighty, "Here am I; send me." May I feel the same spirit. Tuesday, March 23. Attended a reception given by Professor James Staughton at his father's for the tutors, Mr. Rice, and the two high- est classes in college. Professor Sewall gave a similar one last Friday evening. At both of these companies I was pleased with seeing the great propriety of conduct manifested by all present — cheerful, but none vain or trifling. Our president is remarkable for a vast fund of anec- dotes and instructive stories, as well as for ease of communication. . He interests a company, while he amuses, he does not fail to instruct them. Sabbath evening, March 28. This evening have attended a prayer meeting in college, at which there was more than usual animation. Eight brethren prayed, besides other appropriate exercises, in one hour. Such meetings afford a relief from the tedium of dry abstract studies, giving a tone to my mind during several days. I do not consider -time wasted, though three or four times a week 1 turn aside, with my dear brethren, to call for God's blessing upon ray fellow-students, as well as the whole family of man. Shall / ever be fit for a missionary ? April 4. Yesterday (Saturday) set off for a, trip on foot with Brother Ballard. At half past two P. M. we arrived at Montgomery Court House, fifteen miles distant. Tarried two or three hours. Re- turning, reached Washington at nine in the evening — a comfortable walk of thirty miles. April 13. Attended an adjourned meeting of the " Sunday School Union of the District of Columbia." Had the honor of being elected vice-president of that body for the Baptist denomination in the Dis- trict. The report from the schools was highly interesting and encour- aging. April 22. Been reading " Cowper's Private Correspondence," edited by his kinsman John Johnson, LL. D. They are, as a whole, the best examples of easy familiar letter writing that I have seen. His afflictions, arising from severe nervous affections, and consequent de- A BUST LIFE. 39 pression of mind, very strongly remind me of my own troubles. A good man, and, doubtless, a real Christian, but for many years his mind was clouded with melancholy. May 19. Preached last Sabbath for Mr. Brown, in the city. Text Gal. iv. 15, first clause. My principal object in preaching from this text was to point out some of the causes of the alarming declension of religion in this place. To me the season was solemn and affecting; the effect upon others I know not. The subject opened upon me in a man- ner almost surprising, filling my soul and mouth with arguments of which I had not before thought. God was with me of a truth, and the favor demands my gratitude. The religion of my Redeemer has, for eight or ten days, seemed more precious and divine than ever. The extracts thus given cover the academic year of study. We seem to be with the busy college student. He is not a monkish recluse, but finds time to gather improvement not only from books, but from intercourse with others, from attend- ance on the debates in Congress, and from the displays of forensic eloquence which he witnessed in the rooms of the United States Court, holding its sessions in "Washington. He is brought in contact with public men, and acquires that urbanity and polish of manners which marked hun through life as the true Christian gentleman. Although but a junior in col- lege, he is honored by being elected vice-president of the Sun- day School Union of the District of Columbia. It is evident that, even at this comparatively early period in his life, he is becoming known and respected as a man of marked ability, and destined, if God spares his life, to exert an important part in the promotion of the Redeemer's kingdom. 40 MEMOIR OP DE. STOW. CHAPTER III. Visit to New Hampshike Last Yeae in College. — Eecepiion OF Genekal Lafayette. — Journal. 1824H825. The hard intellectual work of the academic year having been accomplished, the heart of the toiler in the fields of knowledge turns with longing towards his eastern home. It is interesting, as throwing light on the modes and speed of locomotion in those days, to trace his progress from day to day, as he travelled towards his New Hampshire home. June i, Newport, N. H. Through the kindness of a merciful ProT- idence have arrived safely at my mother's house. Left Washington the 27th, with Dr. Sewall and family. Beached Baltimore at four in the evening. Left for Philadelphia at five, arriving there at ten o'clock the next day. Called on Deacon Bradley, and visited Peale's Museum. Beached Trenton, N. J., the next day at four, where we took stage for New Brunswick, there remaining over night. On Saturday morning we set out in the steamboat for New York, arriving at ten and a half. Called on Eev. Mr. Sommers, Mrs. Talmadge, and Mrs. Cauldwell. At three P. M. left New York- in steamboat Fulton, for Providence, E. I., which place we reached Sunday evening at five o'clock. Made no tarry, but rode half way up to Boston, which city we entered the next morning at nine. Called on several friends. Met with Brother Alonzo King, from Waterville, Brother George D. Boardman, from Andover, Brother Going, from Worcester, and Brother Boswell, from Middle- town, Conn. Mondiiy night spent with Eev. Mr. Elliott, of Boxbury. Tuesday night staid with Dr. Baldwin, and the next morning took the stage for home. Stopped on the way one day. My health is consider- ably improved now. I desire to be very grateful to my heavenly Father for his protecting kindness. Monday morning, June 7. Preached yesterday afternoon for Mr. Person, in the First Baptist Church ; text, Isa. Ixv. 17. A pleasant sea- JOUENAl. 41 son. Much satisfaction in meeting my friends, who all greet me with cordiality. I hope to be able, while here, to keep myself unspotted from the reigning follies and vices ; to exhibit the example of a sincere, warm Christian. June 14. Just returned from Windsor. Heard two excellent dis- courses from Mr. Elton [the late Eey. Dr. Elton]. Some changes have taken place. Mr. Howard's absence almost destroys the pleasure of a visit to W. June 16. Another birthday. As has been customary, I would make some reflections if I had any worth the record. It is difScult to realize that twenty-three years have passed over my head. I see but little improvement in the past. May the next year witness mudh more. June 26. Perhaps no person sympathizes with the seasons more than myself. My animal feelings are greatly affected by the weather. When clear and serene, my mind is free and spirits buoyant. If cloudy and damp, my spirits are low. July 12. Yesterday preached for Mr. Person, from the words of Moses to Israel concerning Joshua — Deut. i. 38, " Encourage him." My object was to point out the duty of a church to a pastor. My mind was tolerably clear, and I enjoyed a good season, though under, the necessity of preaching some truths which, I apprehend, were unpalatable. Nevertheless I was strengthened and enabled to declare what I conceive to be scriptural truth. I like to feel an independence where I have no compromise to make, no favors to solicit, but, without any obstruction, can come forward and plainly publish the " whole counsel of God." July 24. A fine rain. Have been working three days with the haymakers. My health would be far better were I to labor on a farm. Had I not the conviction that another course of life is real duty, I should certainly of choice return to the farm. But my Maker and Redeemer has other work for me to do, and to his service my powers of body and mind are humbly consecrated. I have no wish to forsake the work assigned me by the Bishop of souls. Saturday evening, August 21. This week Wednesday attended the Commencement at Dartmouth. Hardly equal to what I expected. Met several friends, among them Mr. J. P. Skinner, with whom I returned to Windsor to say good by to friends there. Keturning to Newport with my friend E. L. S., who is on her way to school at Concord, N. H. Thus in pleasant social intercourse ■with his friends and in active out-door exercise, he passed his vacation, and with renewed strength returned to his college duties. It is his last year in a spot which has become very dear to him. It 42 MEMOIB OP DE. STOW. may be questioned if it is wise for students generally to at- tempt to do so much work outside the course of study pre- scribed by the regulations of the college. His was evidently an exceptional case. His mind had been so well discipUned, that he can-ied along with ease his usual studies. The con- scientiousness which was so marked a feature of his character would not allow him to neglect any known duty. If, there- fore, we find him making addresses on a subject which has already awakened his warmest sympathy, — the subject of foreign missions, — if he does the work of an editor, if he de- livers an oration on the fourth of July, and preaches as oc- casion offers, we may be sure that he does none of these things at the expense of any other claims which rightfully demand his attention. The account which he gives of the reception of. General Lafayette, in Washington, is very graphic, and cannot faU to interest the reader. As usual, he mingles moral reflections with his descriptions. September 2, 1824. (College Hill, D. C.) To leave my beloved mother, brothers, and sisters was severely painful; but I cheerfully committed them into the hands of our heavenly Father, who has hither- to protected them and me. Also feel heartily grateful to a kind Provi- dence which has preserved me, restored my health, and safely returned me to engage in the duties of collegiate life. September 4. " Thoughts of home rush on my excited nerves." My kind mother deserves all the affection and attention I can bestow. Never could I desire more affection than has been demonstrated the past summer. I love them all — may I never love them less. My late visit has greatly endeared to me my home and New England. September 7. Attended monthly concert for prayer at St. John's, in the city. Addressed the congregation on the subject of missions. gave a brief narrative of the labors and success of the London Society's missionaries in the South Seas. In relation to that interesting mission, it may triumphantly be said, " What hath God wrought? " Monday, September 27. Fifteen years ago to-day my father re- moved his family from Croyden to Newport — well do I recollect the day, with many of its occurrences. During my late visit to New Hamp- shire, I visited the old place where I was born and received the first rudiments of my education, which I am now endeavoring to mature and make profitable to "myself and others. If I mistake not, my desire to be JOUENAL.- 43 useful increases. I feel more anxious to render some service to the cause of Christianity. I need grace and humility. Tuesday, October 12. Mingled with the crowd of thousands to-day in welcoming our distinguished guest and national benefactor, General Lafayette, recently from France. An attempt to make a great show, and an almost total failure. The general arrived about one P. M., when he was received under the tent of General Washington. The mayor of the city read an address to him, to which he replied extempore. Here were a confused mass of black and white huddled together in Capitol Square. After a salute of twenty-four guns, awkwardly fired, the pro- cession of ill-appearing military marched through clouds of dust from the Capitol to the president's house, where he was received by Mr. Monroe ; then passed on to Gadsby's Hotel. There was nothing grand or magnificent in the display, though an attempt at both. It pains me to see my fellow-citizens departing so rapidly from republican sim- plicity. If I mistake not, the general will despise many of the pro- ceedings in Washington. November 21. Professor Chase arrived in the city yesterday, after fifteen months' absence in Europe. Good man. I rejoice at his return. His counsel and example are much needed among us. Sabbath, November 28. Heard this morning Rev. Eustace Carey preach an excellent discourse from Heb. xiii. 12-14. Just arrived from Calcutta, where he has for many years been a devoted, laborious missionary (English Baptist). He is a nephew of the learned, pious William Carey, D. D., of Serampore. An affectionate mildness and soft- ness characterized his whole manner, but in faithfulness did he preach the pure, humiliating doctrines of the cross. Seldom have I heard u. richer discourse. December 3. Just finished my oration for Commencement. As the graduating class is small, only three, — J. D. Knowles, Alexander Ewell, and Albert Fairfax, — the faculty have been pleased to appoint, to take part in the exercises, two from the Junior class, Thomas D. Eliot and myself, and two from the Sophomore class, John Boulware and John W. James. This is the first Commencement of Columbian College. We hope neither to disgrace ourselves nor the institution, rather so to suc- ceed as to honor both. In all things may I have the honor of my Redeemer and the best interests of his church at heart. Friday, December 10. Passed the day in the city. Witnessed the reception of General Lafayette in the House of Representatives. Tlie scene was noble and august, sublime and affecting, beyond description. He was addressed by the speaker, Henry Clay, in tliat style of imposing eloquence for which he is so justly distinguished. The general replied in a manner and style calculated to excite some of the most generous 44 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. and grateful emotions of the heart. The whole scene was affecting — many eyes were suffused with tears at the recollection of the services and voluntary sacrifices of the hero, patriot, and sage who stood before them, and with his benign accents cheered the representatives of twenty- four free states to firmness and union in support of their excellent in- stitutions. This reception had nothing of exterior pomp or splendor. The grandeur and sublimity of the scene consisted altogether in the associations awakened. The house was crowded above and below — all, in breathless silence, listening to the unanimous expression of grate- ful feeling as delivered by the speaker on behalf of ten millions of free, enlightened people, and the responsive expressions of affectionate at- tachment as they fell from the lips of Lafayette. The whole was a gush of grateful feeling — a glow of liberal sentiment. Monday, February 14, 1825. Commenced my studies. This term I have for a room-mate a young man who is not pious. I pray to be faithful to him. February 27. Been reading the journal of Eev. Joseph "Wolf, missionary to Palestine. He was born near Bamberg, in Bavaria, of Jewish parents, in 1796. His father was a Rabbi. At seventeen years of age he professed Christianity, and soon began studying for the ministry. After spending some time in the Propaganda at Eome, he was dismissed on account of his opposition to Papal authority. Soon after he went to England (1819), he entered the Missionary Seminary at Hampstead Park, and in 1821 set out for Palestine. His journal breathes the spirit of a true missionary, devoted to God. He is now but twenty-nine years of age, but has done more to bring the missionary cause into notice and reputation there than any other living man. March 1, Tuesday. Heard Dr. Staughton, Sabbath. In the evening attended the Annual Meeting of the Baptist General Tract Society. Ee- ports read, and addresses made by several members, and officers chosen. March i. This day John Q. Adams is inaugurated President of the TTnited States, and John C. Calhoun Vice-President. The oath of office was administered to tlie former by Chief Justice Marshall, to the latter by General Jackson. Crowds were disappointed in not being able to witness the ceremonies. How strongly do such multitudes remind one of that day when all the universe shall be gathered before the bar uf God! March 7. Heard Dr. Laurie in the morning, Brother Newborn in the afternoon, and a stranger at Mcllvaine's in the evening. I must cease wandering from place to place. It begets unsettled, unsteady habits, and preveiits the exercise of spiritual feelings. I find more enjoyment by attending some regular church. I must be more steady, and confine myself to the church to. which I belong. May God enable JOURNAL. 45 me to keep these resolutions. If a man would grow in grace, I am sensible he will not be assisted in that growth by indulging in a vain curiosity, rambling from church to church, from preacher to preacher. March 17. Last evening I was elected as orator for the college on fourth of July next. My mind for the past four days has been seriously excited to earnest supplication for the salvation of my dear room-mate. April 7. Yesterday I went early to the city collecting scholars to the Sabbath school ; succeeded well, but the ignorance and wretchedness of the blacks at Washington is beyond deseription. April 11. A few weeks since a friend of mine, Mr. J. P. Fenner, commenced a school on Sabbath afternoon exclusively for blacks; he is a pious, zealous man, and I trust will do them much good. In the school at Brother Brown's we have seventy-two scholars ; the prospect is good for the number reaching one hundred next Sabbath. Brother Rice preached in the morning, and pleaded earnestly in behalf of Sabbath schools. At three o'clock Mr. Brown went into the baptismal waters with three. As many as two thousand gathered at the river-side to wit- ness the ceremony. On our return we sat down to the Lord's Supper, and a precious hour it was to my soul. I had some glimpses of my Saviour's face, some tokens of his love. Monday morning, April 18. Spent the morning searching for chil- dren to attend Sunday school. Found a young man preaching in the suburbs to these very poor, wretched creatures. My heart burns within me to be employed in the same work — preaching the gospel to the poor, ignorant, and vicious. In the afternoon I assisted my dear friend, Mr. Fenner, in his school of colored people, established in his own house. There are eighty children and adults. Sabbath evening. In the morning attended Sunday school. Our numbers are steadily increasing. Instead of four we have twenty-four teachers, and from twenty-five, our scholars number one hundred and nineteen. In the afternoon the schools of the Union met at Dr. Balch's, Georgetown, when we had various religious exercises. I read the re- port. Dr. Staughton preached from these words: "Be not weary in well doing." Eev. Mr. Bedell, of Philadelphia, made an address, and Eev. Mr. Hawley addressed the children particularly. May 28. The present is a time when I need health and strength. Studies, preparation for fourth of July oration, duties in Sunday schools, and matters of the Baptist General Tract Society make requisitions. The Lord has thus far given me grace and strength. I feel that I indulge too much a worldly spirit. I have too much pride and vain-glory. What grieves me most is, that I frequently indulge them without remorse. I desire constantly an increase of holiness. June 9. Last evening had some sweet conversation with a pious stu- 46 MEMOIE OF DK. STOW. dent, Brother Robert Eyland, about experimental religion, and about preaching. He thinks he must preach, and I think so too. How de- lightful it was to converse about Christ and heaven ! June 16, 1825. Another birthday I I hardly dare review the scenes of tlie past year. The mercies of my God have been so many, and my ingratitude so great, I meet reproof at every step. June 20. Heard Brother Caswell in the morning, from Matt. x. 32 and 33. In the afternoon attended and addressed Mr. Fenner's colored school. At night heard Brother George D. Boardman, a mis- sionary designated for Burmah. He appears a person of sound, dis- criminating mind, and sterling piety. Last summer, when in Boston, I had considerable conversation with him in relation to my own impres- sions concerning my duty to become a missionary. He had learned from dear Brother King, of Waterville, that I sometimes thought it to be my calling; but I apprehend he did not feel satisfied that I possessed much ardor for the good work, for since he came here he has not hinted to me a syllable on the subject. Many circumstances combine now to produce the belief that I am not called to be a missionary, at least in a foreign field. If I know my own heart, I am willing to go anywhere, at any time, at the command of my Lord. June 22. This evening parted with Brother Boardman. He is soon to sail for Burmah. He is a good man, full of the Holy Ghost. May the Lord go with him, and crown his labors with success. July 4. The hour is passed for which I have been so long prepar- ing. The day has been exceedingly fine, and we had a large, respec- table audience. After the reading of the Declaration of Independence by one of the Juniors, I pronounced my oration, an hour in length. I have abundant reason to be grateful for the goodness of God to me to- day. July 6. In compliance with a request from the two societies, I have just given to the committee of arrangements a, copy of my oration. Soon after the delivery of his oration, he returned to his home in New Hampshire. He makes the following record of the visit, and the incidents attending it : — Newport, N. H., July 24. Preached for Mr. Person. Must begin to think of doing something for the Baptist General Tract Society. August 3. Eeturned from Springfield, Vt., where I went Saturday to visit Brother Ely. The Lord has been doing wonders there in the con- version of sinners. About eighty liave given evidence of a change of heart ; forty-three have been baptized by Brother Ely. It was a little heaven on earth. They are much engaged in the cause of their Re- deemer. JOURNAL. 47 Sabbath, August 7. Heard the Rev. Ariel Kendrick this morning, from Jonah ii. 7. He is still the same humble, devout, and able divine. He is one of the fathers of this association (Woodstock), and has borne much of the burden and heat of the day. His labors at times have been very greatly blessed, although he has had little advantages of edu- cation. He will meet many in heaven who have been saved through the means of his faithful preaching. The satisfaction of doing good to the souls of men is far superior to that of possessing much knowledge. " Knowledge often puffeth up, but charity edifieth." Newport, August 8. Heard the Eev. Mr. Frey, a converted Jew, preach in the South Meeting-house, from these words : " Is there no balm in Gilead " ? It was a very elegant and eloquent discourse. His representations of the degraded condition of the Jews, and the difficul- ties which lie in the w,"iy of their conversion to Christianity, were truly affecting. A collection of twenty-eight dollars was taken, and a society of sixty-four members formed, auxiliary to the " American Society for the Amelioration of the Condition of the Jews," in which he is deeply in- terested, and for which he pleads with a becoming zeal. A settlement of Jews has already commenced in West Chester, N. Y. To this place Jews are received by recommendation of Count Von der Reche, in Germany, who employs them for a season before they emigrate. His object is one of the best, and merits the prayers and liberal contribu- tions of Christians. August 15. My friend and classmate, R. W. Cushman, writes me to come and preach in his place, on Fort Hill, during his absence on a short trip into Maine. I have, besides, some wish to pass a few days in the city of Boston, to attend Harvard Commencement, as also the Com- mencement of Brown, at Providence. My friend Knowles is solicitous to see me at Providence, and I quite as anxious to see him, esteeming myself unfortunate to be deprived of his society and judicious counsel. Boston. Made my home at Dr. Baldwin's, where Brother Knowles met me on Tuesday, and remained with me until Thursday. Heard him preach for Mr. Sharp. Brother Cushman started Tuesday for Bath, Me., Dr. Baldwin and wife for Waterville. Passed part of the day with my friend T. D. Eliot, a classmate from Washington. Wednes- day attended examination of the public schools, dined with the mayor, aldermen, &c., and about four hundred citizens, at Faneuil Hall. Preached in the evening at Charlestown for Brother Jackson, from Isaiah Ixv. 17. On my retarn to Boston, found Professor Chase, who had re- signed his professorship in the Columbian College. The intelligence, though anticipated, gave me pain. It seriously affects my plans. I did not think he would so soon abandon his post ; but he is a good man, and doubtless has done all things well. It would be difficult to persuade ma that he has done anything rashly or indiscreetly. 48 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. Boston, September 2. Dr. Baldwin is no more ! He died sudden- . ly last Monday night, August 29, at Waterville, Me. His remains ar- rived to-day, via Portland, by steamboat. He was » good man, and thousands will deplore bis loss. College Hill, September 14, 1825. On my return trip, remained several days at Providence, with my dear friend K. Attended the Com- mencement exercises, which were fair; also went to the celebration of the Federal Adelphi. The oration by T. Kinnicutt, Esq., of Seekonk, was very good ; the poem, by Benjamin P. Hallett, witty and amusing. By steamboat I came to New York, from there to Philadelphia to spend the Sabbath, then safely on to Washington. Here again I will make mention of the loving kindness and tender watch-care of my heavenly Father. I have visited my loved ones, and once more received their benediction, formed new, interesting acquaintances, and been treated by all with great kindness. May I now have grace to pursue my studies with ardor and profit. LEAVES COLI^EGE. 49 CHAPTER IV. NXrETIES ABOUT THE PdTUKE. — GEADtTATION. — EdITOK Or THE Columbian Stak. — Life in TVashington. — Maeeiage. — Reminiscences et President Caswell. 1825-1827. Iif the preceding chapter we have made copious extracts cm the diary of Mr. Stow. "We have deemed it wise to ring to the notice of our readers the varied influences which Bveloped and gave shape to his character in this formative 2riod of his life. We see him engaged in his college duties. .s he passes down the gentle declivity by which the city is sached, we walk by his side. "We go to the Capitol, and aagine the effect produced on his mind as he listens to the abates in Congress, or the able pleas which are made at the ir of the "United States Court. It is pleasant to follow him I his preaching tours in Virginia, and we can readily believe lat, for a young man, his preaching must have been of a high rder. Mr. Stow took part in the exercises of the first Com- lencement at "Washington, in December, 1824, and, by antic- lating some of his studies, was able to graduate in Decem- jr, 1825, having been a member of college a little over three sars. Several months before his graduation, the attention Fthe college authorities was turned to him as a suitable per- )n to receive the appointment of tutor. CoiTespondence id been carried on with him with reference to other impor- mt posts of labor, and he was now passing through an expe- ence which is often so full of anxiety to the yoang man )mpleting his collegiate studies, and the solemn question of Te's responsibilities presses itself upon his serious attention. 7"ith great sincerity, and a profoimd conviction of his depen- 4 50 MEMOIB or DE. STOW. dence on God, he committed the whole matter to the direction of his ever-gracious Lord and Friend. September 23. Health unusually good. Propositions have been made to me to remain after I graduate in December, as a tutor. Also have had a request to assume the charge of an academy in South Carolina. Something has been said to me also about preaching to a church in New Hampshire. I need direction, as I must decide soon. Lord, what is duty ? What course shall I take ? Since Brother Knowles left, I have no friend to consult with. Perhaps it is well, that I may go to God. September 27. Still in a state of suspense as to the course I shall pursue after I finish my studies. The world furnishes for me but few at- tractions. I desire to live, that by living I may glorify God. Lead me to Greenland or Patagonia, to California or Japan, it matters but little, if I do what is pleasing to my heavenly Father. October 7, 1825. Rose at three o'clock this morning to look at Jupi- ter and Venus — now a little past conjunction. By means of a three-feet telescope I had a good view of them, as well as of the moon, now in her last quarter. Jupiter seen very distinctly in Leo. I hope to see them again to-morrow morning, in order to make some more accurate obser- vations. Have for two nights been observing Encke's comet, visible after eight o'clock P. M. ; now visible in the neck of Cetus. I find a taste for natural sciences increase as I advance. There is something agreeable in discovering and investigating physical phenomena. But I would not let such a taste overcome or displace a taste for studies more suited to my calling. Perhaps, however, divine Providence is opening the way for me to turn my attention more to science, in order that I may be qualified for a place in some public institution. Circumstances seem to indicate at present that it is not my duty to enter immediately on the ministry, but pursue my studies farther. O for divine direction ! The path of duty is the only path in which I desire to walk. October 11. Bead Duncan, On Creeds and Confessions. His sub- ject now seems to be agitating the Presbyterian churches to a fearful extent. Severe language is used on both sides. Duncan writes like a bold, fearless Christian, who has great reverence for the Word of God, who earnestly loves the truth ; in the main, very evangelical. October 18. Attended Sabbath schools as usual. My faith is not in lively exercise. My hopes are weak ; prayer too much like talk. O God, give me the light of life ! Impress my heart more deeply with a sense of thy great goodness. May I be more humble, more thankful, more prayerful, and have the awful things of eternity resting more weightily upon my soul's recollection. I a Christian ? I a minister of JOtTENAL. 51 Christ? -^ SO cold, so dull, so Indiflferent to the interests of my own im- mortal soul, and the souls of those around me ! October 20. How powerful is association! sometimes contributing to our pleasure, sometimes producing painful emotions. Rogers has sung the Pleasures of Memory, Merry the Pains of Memory. I have many of both. I see little in my own life upon which I can reflect with satisfaction. I see too much sin in all I have said, and thought, and done, to be much pleased with myself. Yet, in tracing the opera- tions of divine Providence in relation to myself, and the influence they have had upon my course of life, &c., I meditate with great pleasure. God has led me in a way I apprehended not. I have been successful in my plans and wishes beyond my highest hopes. I desire to cherish constantly towards him a heart full of earnest and devout gratitude. November 1. Am for the present the editor of the Columbian Star — an arduous undertaking, with my other duties. Assist Professor Buggies in his philosophical lectures. November 7. The Senior class has this day been dismissed, and the parts assigned for Commencement. I have received the first honor — the Valedictory ; Thomas Dawes Eliot has the second — the Salutatory Address. This is not as I anticipated, although, as I believe, all my friends expected and wished it. Let me be grateful to Heaven. December 1. As a family we shall soon be dispersed, at least more so than now. My sister J. is to be married. I feel very solicitous to know what my dear mother will do. She has for some time engaged more than a usual share of my sympathy. All in my power shall be done to render her declining years peaceful and happy. She has en- dured much toil and self-denial in order to release me, so that I might obtain an education. I am now under most solemn obligations to return the kindness fourfold. May God help me so to do. December 7. Exceedingly occupied in arranging matters for the Star, and preparations for Commencement. Have decided to go to New England after Commencement, in consequence of an invitation from the Second Baptist Church in Salem. I hardly think it my duty to become pastor of a church immediately, but am solicitous, to enjoy the advantages of the Theological Seminary at Newton, Mass., in which Professor Chase is teacher of biblical theology. How or where the Lord may direct my steps, I know not. To him I commend myself. December 18, 1825 (Sabbath). This day bade adieu to the Sabbath school in Brother Brown's church, of which I have for some time been secretary and manager. It was very trying to my feelings. I did not know I was half so much attached as I am to teachers and pupils. May God in mercy bless them all. December 21. Commencement passed. I rejoice, for I am ex- 52 ILBMOIB OF DE. STOW. ceedingly weary. We have had a beautiful day, and the house was crowded. Obdek op Exeecises. — 1. Salutatory in Latin, with English Ora- tion, on the Causes of the Paucity of splendid Productions of American Genius in Poetry, Sculpture, and Painting, by Thomas D. Eliot, D. C. 2. Pernicious Effects of Imitation on our Literature, by John Arm- strong, Penn. Music. 3. Eulogy on Alexander Hamilton, by John Brewer, Maryland. 4. The Feudal System contrasted with the Constitu- tion of the Federal States, by William A. Smallwood, D. C. Music. 5. Instability of Civil Institutions, by James Jones, X>. C. 6. Influence of Metaphysical Speculation on Character, by Robert W. Cushman, Mas- sachusetts. 7. The Elevation which Mind appears destined to reach, by Baron Stow, New Hampshire, an Oration, with valedictory addresses. The president of the United States, the vice-president and secretaries, were present, as well as some members of Congress, besides a large number of other distinguished individuals. I have now completed my collegiate course. But what little gratitude do I feel to that kind Being who has preserved me amidst all my toils and anxieties. I have suffered considerably from ill health, but at no period of life was it better than now. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and may I now think more earnestly of entering his vineyard, and devoting myself, soul and body, and all, to him. " Lord, I am thine ; but thou wilt prove My faith, my patience, and my love." Wednesday evening, December 28. Attended the president's drawing- room. A large gathering of ladies and gentlemen of distinction pres- ent. Was introduced to the president and his lady by Colonel Richard M. Johnson, senator from Kentucky. His brother introduced me to the vice-president, also to Mr. Webster. Received a number of flatter- ing compliments from Mr. Webster and Mr. Calhoun, Mr. Bartlett (New Hampshire), Mr. Seymour and Mr. Chase (Vermont). Remained about an hour, and then retired, pleased with having formed new acquaint- ances. I have no solicitude to be present at another such occasion. Godliness does not grow there. I should not have attended but for the curiosity to see in what the scene consists ; probably it is the only op- portunity I shall ever have. For happiness, I should much rather go and visit a humble Christian in his cottage, though in the midst of poverty. " The friendship of the world-is enmity against God." December 31, 1825. This day closes the year, and is the anni- versary of ray baptism. Seven years ago about tliis hour (12 M.), I went down into the water for baptism. That was a happy day. Now I am in a different state of mind, distracted by care and anxieties. What is my duty ? O, let me with my whole soul commit my ways unto the EDITOKIAJj WOEK. 5S Lord, that he may direct my paths. I wish to do duty — that is my only desire concerning my future course of action. My present de- cision will give a coloring to every act of my future life. "Lord, be thou my guide." The reader has thus followed the suhject of the Memoir through his college life. We feel that there has been a con- stant growth in his intellectual and reli^ous life during his residence in Washington. He possesses and exhibits manly- traits of character. Occasionally a little morbid, jDerhaps, in his feelings, and predisposed to a pensiveness which may, without difficulty, be exijlained, we find the whole man de- veloping and ripening into maturity, and we predict for him a bright and successful future. He acknowledged God in all his ways, and He directed his paths. Nothing can be plainer than the hand of his Father leading him, and his right hand ui^holding him. During the latter part of his collegiate course, Mr. Stow had acted as editor of the Columbian Star, the organ of the Triennial Convention. He had found the work so far con- genial with his literary tastes, that after his graduation he was willing to continue his editorial work, to the best of his ability. Providence seems to decide that he shall remain in Washington, at least for the present. As usual, he is crowded with work in these days of his early manhood, exhibiting that marvellous facility for writing for which he was always dis- tinguished, and that graceful use of the pen, which, on so many important occasions, made his services so acceptable. He finds time, amid his multifarious duties, to visit the halls of Congress. We can imagine what an efiect must have been produced on a man of his fine taste and exquisite sensi- bilities by the splendid eloquence of Edward Everett, and do not wonder when we find him using terms of the warmest admiration as he gives expression to his feeUngs after listen- ing to one of his matchless eiforts. Washington, January 19, 182G. Some probability I may remain here a year or two, at least, as editor of the Columbian Star. Four weeks ago I expected to be in New England before this date. Provi- 54 MEMOIE OP DE. STOW. denee seems to order my footsteps otherwise. I wish to pursue the right course, and my prayer to God is, that I may be directed by him in all things. I need more piety, more humility, more confidence in God. Lord, grant me all I need. Monday, January 30. Took my place yesterday in the' Sunday school. The pain I felt in parting with it, when I expected to leave the city, was more than counterbalanced by the pleasure of returning. It- is a good cause, and one in which I feel a deep interest. January 30. The souls of my pupils, I thank God, appear to me very valuable, and I desire to be useful to them in turning their feet into the path of peace. I esteem it the most effectual method which human benevolence has adopted of producing real benefit to society. Saturday, March 4. Had some enjoyment this morning in reading the word of God, and in prayer. Who that knows the worth of this high privilege does not wish to be often at a throne of grace ? It is of more value to the peace of my soul than all the wealth of the Indies. Without it I cannot grow in grace ; without it I am unhappy. Yet how much do I neglect it 1 Surprising, humbling thought, that when I know its worth, I am not more constantly and devotedly engaged in it! How should a sense of my negligence depress me in the dust of lowest hu- miliation and penitence ! March 9. Had the pleasure of hearing Hon. Mr. Everett speak to- day in the House of Eepresentatives. Cannot describe the emotions I had. His eloquence was overpowering. His diction is chaste and ele- gant, his voice clear and distinct, and his gesticulation forcible. The galleries were thronged with anxious and delighted spectators. Such hursts of real oratory I never witnessed in any place. In the evening heard Captain Symmes explain his theory of a concave earth. What a burlesque on science 1 March 30. Since writing the above, been confined to my bed with pulmonary fever. Am very feeble, but my spirits are excellent. I have considerable religious enjoyment. The Lord is kind and merciful in all my afflictions. April 6. Raised from a bed of sickness and pain, how thankful should I be, how engaged for my Redeemer ! I am a monument of divine compassion and forbearance — so often brought to the border- land, and so often restored I Where shall I find language to declare the loving-kindness of God? I am lost in confusion and amazement! Lord, wake up the fires of pure religion in my torpid bosom, and seal me thine forever. May 14, Sabbath. Three weeljs ago I went to New York to attend the triennial session of the Baptist General Convention. Was kindly received and entertained by Mr. Tliomas Stokes, 4G Franklin Street. JOUEITAIi. 55 Among other interesting services, attended the anniversary of the New York Sunday School Union, at Castle Garden. Have been elected » trustee of Columbian College. July 7. News just received of the death of Thomas Jefferson, at Monticello, Va., on the 4th instant, aged eighty-three years. July 8. The mail brought to-day news of the death of John Adams, father of the president. He, too, died on the 4th instant, at Quincy, Mass., aged ninety-two years. Affecting coincidence. How mysterious are the ways of Providence 1 Sabbath, July 16. This day has been set apart to religious ser- vices in honor of Messrs. Adams and Jefferson. Dr. Staughton preached a discourse in the Capitol at the request of the citizens. Text, " Lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not divided." 2 Sam. i. 23. August 3. My duties and vexations multiply. I am now editor of the Star, depositary of the Baptist General Tract Society, secretary of a board of trustees of Columbian College, secretary of the Sunday School Union of the District, a,director of the Auxiliary Seaman's Friend Society, a member of the committee to investigate the condition of the old Co- lumbian offlce, secretary of Sabbath School No. 1, a member of Colum- bian Institute, a member of three standing committees in the board of directors of the Baptist General Tract Society. August 13. Spent the day in Alexandria very pleasantly. Heard Brother Cornelius preach on Christian hope — a very sensible discourse. A good man and zealous preacher. On the 7th September, 1826, I was married to Miss Elizabeth L. Skinner, third daughter of the late Benjamin Skinner, Esq., of Wind- sor, Vt. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Christopher Hale, pas- tor of the Baptist church in tliat town. As I have now entered into new relations in life, I would devoutly pray that we may both have grace to live in the fear of God, and to devote ourselves to him, who has been our constant helper. A union which has long been contem- plated now has been consummated. May we both so live as to give no occasion to either to regret we are thus united. Our obligations and responsibilities are solemn. May we never forget or violate them. October 1. A pleasant morning. O that my soul could, in full harmony with nature, rise in concert to our heavenly King, and praise his name for his wonderful works to man ! I have some few emotions of joy and satisfaction, while contemplating divine goodness and jus- tice. This is a day of rest. May I find it a day of spiritual rest and refreshment. Saturday, October 29. Heard Eev. Mr. Baker preach from Fsalms xcv. 7, 8 — a counsel, a caution, and warning. The discourse was touch- 56 MEMOIE OB" DE. STOW. ing and solemn. In the afternoon listened to Mr. G. W. Blagden, a young Presbyterian licentiate. Text, Luke xvi. 25. January 21, 1827, Sabbath evening. This evening preached from Isaiah xxxii. 2. A very comfortable season. How rich and full of con- solation is the doctrine of the cross ! It is delightful to preach Jesus, and him crucified. The Lord helps his servants who fully and faith- fully declare the gospel of his Son. March 19. The Lord is pouring out his Spirit upon the Second Baptist Church in this city [Washington], of which I am a member. Eev. R. H. Neale is now our pastor. Many seem prostrated with sol- emn convictions. My soul longs for God, and the comforts of his grace. I am barren as the fig tree in the Scripture. How can I avoid the curse ? May 5. Just returned from Boston, where I preached several times at different places. There is now, in Boston and vicinity, an extraordi- nary revival of religion, sucli as has not been seen there for eighty years. The work is silent, but powerful. May 26. I have this day discontinued my connection with the Co- lumbian Star. Am henceforth to have no further concern in it. My resignation as editor was the result of a firm belief that the time had arrived for me to engage in the great and good work of preaching the gospel. My friends all concur with me in the opinion. In a few weeks I shall start for Boston. His life in Washington had been an exceedingly laborious one. At one tinje during the year 1826, which is now pass- ing under review, he was, as he tells us, editor of the Colum- bian Star, depositary of the Baptist General Tract Society, secretary of the board of trustees of the college, secretary of the Sabbath School Union of the District, a director of the Auxiliary Seamen's Friend Society, a member of the commit- tee to investigate the condition of the old Columbian office, secretary of Sabbath School No. 1, a member of the Colum- bian Institute, a member of three standing committees in the board of directors of the Baptist General Tract Society. It is clear that his post in Washington was far from being a sinecure. He had, moreover, some peculiar trials, growing out of his connection with the Columbian Star, and Rev. Luther Rice, who had taken so active a part in denomination- al affairs. These trials weighed heavily on liis spirits. And yet, although liis responsibilities were grave, and his duties PRESIDENT Caswell's eeminiscences. 57 often exceedingly burdensome, he became warmly attached to Washington. Many of the friendships which he had formed there he kept up as long as he lived. For the gentle- men, with whom he was associated in college he always cher- ished the most tender regard. He followed also with great interest the fortunes of the public men, whose acquaintance he had made at the seat of government. He read their speeches, and, as one by one they passed away, if biographies were written of them, he was sure to peruse them. His occar sional visits to Washington, in subsequent years, were always anticipated with pleasure, and were keenly enjoyed by him. The following communication, prepared at the request of the editor of this Memoir, will be read with pleasure by the numerous friends of Mr. Stow : — Mt deak Dr. Stockbkidge : You liave kindly requested me to give you some reminiscences of our late lamented brother, Dr. Baron Stow. You must be.ar in mind, as I do, that reminiscences running back nearly half a century are liable to become dim, and shadowy, and uncertain. I will, howerer, do the best I can to meet your wishes. I first met Baron Stow at the Columbian College, in the District of Columbia, in the latter part of November, 1822. I repaired to the col- lege, at that time under appointment as a tutor, and found him a member of the Sophomore class. James D. Knowles, Eobert W. Cushman, Jonathan Meriam, and others whose praise has been in all the churches, were members of the college at the same time. Mr. Stow became known to me as a most diligent and successful stu- dent, as a grave, exemplary, and most conscientious Christian. With some considerable acquaintance with young men professing faith in Christ, I had rarely met one, who, in the discharge of his Christian duties, so fully exemplified the precept of doing with his might what hia hand found to do. He suffered then, from time to time, as through his whole life, from severe nervous headaches. But it seemed hardly to produce any relaxation in his labors. He had no idle hours. He was literally a worker in the vineyard of the Lord. He seemed every day to feel a great burden of responsibility resting upon him. So devout was he, and so intent upon doing the great work which his Master had assigned him, that he seemed, far more than most Christian men, to walk with God. Hence, though at times cheerful, he was never light and frivolous, never in the smallest degree given to that "jesting" which tne apostle mentions as " inconvenient." Indeed, the habitual 58 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. tone of hia mind at that time, as I now remember him, was almost too serious to enter fully into the enjoyment of that playfulness of wit and humor which often give so rich a zest to social intercourse. I think Brother Stow had been accustomed to exercise his gifts in preaching before he went to 'Washington. He continued this practice during his collegiate course. He was always an acceptable, sometimes an impressive preacher, and hence he had frequent invitations to preach in Washington and its vicinity. It was often my privilege to attend religious services with him, and witness the earnestness with which he pleaded with sinners to be reconciled to God. He was accustomed to the use of his pen, and composed with facility, and with a, maturity of thought and style not common to persons of his age. But I think his general practice at that time was to preach without written sermons. He was aided in this by his ready command of language, and the happy faculty of analyzing a subject, and throwing its main points into proper perspective, so that the hearer would at once, and without difficulty, seize the plan of his discourse, and follow him in his argument and illus- trations. I remember to have been present on more than one occasion when he was called upon to preach with very little opportunity for special preparation, and where he acquitted himself with great advan- tage, leaving upon the minds of his hearers a deep and solemn convic- tion of their religious responsibility. The power of his preaching at this time was not derived from any classic finish of style, or any special grace of elocution and delivery, but from the profound conviction of his own mind that personal religion was a great and solemn reality, and necessary to salvation. I might add that the cross of Christ was eminently his theme. Brother Stow left Washington, I think, in 1826. I left in X827. Since that time I have often been associated with him in the difierent religious and educational interests of our denomination. To every post of duty and labor he brought a sound judgment, an earnest purpose, a prayerful and conciliatory spirit. His early activity and zeal fore- shadowed the labors and successes of bis subsequent life. It is pleas- ant to dwell upon the memory of one whose character exhibits so much to admire and love, and so little to regret. I am yours, in the bonds of Christ, Alexis Caswell. 47 College Street, November 1, 1870. INVITATIONS TO SETTLB. 59 CHAPTER V. Calls to settle in thb Ministry. ^- Accepts the Invitation to PoRTSMonTH, N. H. — Ordination. — Journal — Calls to Salem, Mass., and Wateeville, Me. — Urgent Appeals from President Chaplin. 1827-1830. The scene now changes. The same kind hand which thus far had led the subject of tliis Memoir was now directing his steps back to New England, where, in two of her cities, he was to spend the remainder of his life in the work of the ministry of reconciliation. Years had passed since he decided that he was called of God to this work. His conceptions of the dignity and importance of the pastoral oiBce had been intensified by his long reflections upon the magnitude of the interests intrusted to the hands of the minister of Jesus. With sincere modesty and misgivings, he shrank from entering into the work, much as his soul panted to proclaim to men "the unsearchable riches of Christ." Two invitations had been sent to him to preach as a candidate for settlement as a pastor — one from Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and the other from Portsmouth, N. H. The prospect of success in either church, in some respects, was not very flattering. The church in Portsmouth, which had been in existence but a short time, was comparatively small in numbers, and in its means was considerably strait- ened. Humanly speaking, therefore, the hope of great suc- cess was not very bright, and the young minister was fully aware that if he became the pastor of the church, he must gird himself for hard work, and prepare himself for a severe trial of his patience and faith. In reading the record of his feel- 60 MEMOrE OP DE. STOW. ings, we are reminded very much of a similar record m.ade by Dr. Wayland under like circumstances : " If God should place me in any station of responsibility, may he abundantly enrich me with every literary and intellectual qualification, but espe- cially with the infinitely richer endowments of his Holy Spuit, that I may be sincere, wise, pure, holy, vigilant, and prayerful, and deeply impressed with the value of souls. In fine, whatever may be my lot in this world, may I live a life of holiness, and be received at last to the place where there is no more lukewannness, but where they see as they are seen, and know as they are known." It is in the same sjjuit that Mr. Stow turned his face towards his new home. We will follow him as he departs from Washington, and becomes fairly settled in Portsmouth. June 16. I have now an invitation from the Baptist church in Portsmouth, N. H., and another from Poughkeepsie, N. Y., to preach as candidate for the pastoral office. But O, my utter unfitness for tlie high and responslhle vocation ! My only hope is in the God of Jacob. Portsmouth, N. H., July 24, 1827. On the 22d June myself and companion bade adieu to Washington for the eastward. I had spent five years there. I shall count them among the pleasantest of my life. On the 23d we reached Philadelphia. Passed the Sabbath with Mrs. Wythe (Dr. Staughton's sister). He being there, heard him preach. I preached twice — once for Mr. Dagg, at the Sansom Street church, once for the brethren in Bank Street, a minority of the First Baptist Church. Monday we left for Boston, where we were hospitably entertained by our dear friend and brother, James D. Knowles, during a stay of three weeks. Preached several times for the different churches, and at JuUien Hall. On Wednesday last, the 18th July, the new house of worship in Federal Street, Boston, was dedicated by religious services to the wor- ship of Almighty God. Sermon by Mr. Sharp, " Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God ; " dedicatory prayer by Mr. Grosvenor ; recognition and address to the church by Mr. Knowles. Services highly interesting and solemn. Thursday we came by stage to Portsmouth. The small Baptist church here is destitute of a pastor, and have invited me to preach for them a few Sabbaths. I pray my labors, however short may be my stay, may prove useful. The Baptist cause here is in a low state. An. effort ACCEPTS THE CALL TO POETSMOTTTH. 61 is making to raise it and give it dignity. I wish to feel engaged in the work before me. My faith is weak, and I have too little of a spirit of prayer. Wheresoever God in his Providence may direct my feet I wish to go. My desire is to serve him and promote his cause. He has done great things for me. I ought to be more grateful. My heart is too insensible to divine goodness. Portsmouth, August 29. Have been here six weeks laboring. Visited much. Preached four discourses every week. The meetings are well attended by those of all denominations. The word is listened to with much solemnity, and the desire seems to be unanimous that I should stay here. What I shall do I know not. Hay God direct me in the way of duty. September 1. Good is the work of the Lord. Feel more and more encouraged to labor for the good of souls. Some incidents of recent occurrence lead me to believe that we shall yet see a work of grace in Portsmouth. September 3. This day received from the church and society to which I am preacliing a unanimous invitation to become their pastor. My coming here, under God, seems to have rendered their prospects more encouraging. They propose a salary of seven hundred dollars, with promise of increase. The meetings are crowded and interesting. September 8. Answered the church in the affirmative. In so doing have sought divine direction, and, I trust, obtained it. The die is cast. I rejoice. My mind is now at rest. In the strength of God I hope to go forward. May he make me a blessing to his cause in this town. The field here is wide. May I be humble and faitliful, and may the Lord establish the work of my hands. The immense responsi- bility ! " Who is sufficient for these things ? " " My grace is sufficient for thee." " They that trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, that cannot be removed, but abideth forever." Precious promises these. It will be seen, from, these extracts, that the new pastor at once found favor with the people, and that the seal of the divine approbation was put upon his ministry. His elo- quence, his piety, his affable, yet dignified bearing, at once won for him a place in the affections of his people, and com- manded the respect and homage of the community in which he had cast his lot. The feeling of discouragement which had for some time been creeping over the church, disap- peared, and they became assured that, in answer to their prayers, a brighter day had begun to dawn on them. The 62 lEEMOIE OF DE. STOW. day to which for so many years he had been looking forward with so much interest — the day of his ordination — had come. How many heaits sympathized with him in the event ! With what glad emotions did she, who stood to him in the tender relation of mother, welcome the happy day which was to see her beloved son publicly set apart as a minister of Christ ! For him she had toiled and denied self, and prayed unceasingly that the common Lord of both parent and child would lead him in the way that should most glorify him. The prayers and benedictions of other loved ones followed the object of their affections. The ordination of Mr. Stow took place on the 24th of October, 1827, in the " South Meeting,house." The services were as follows : Reading Scriptures, Rev. Mr. Cooke ; prayer. Rev. Mr. Houghton ; sermon, Rev. R. Babcock ; or- daining prayer, Rev. Mr. Ellis ; chai-ge. Rev. Dt. Bolles ; right hand of fellowship, Rev. Mr. Miller ; address to church and congregation. Rev. Mr. Davis ; concluding prayer. Rev. Mr. Davis. The new pastor, thus solemnly set apart to the work of the ministry, writes, " The responsibilities which I have assumed seem immense. Without the grace of God I shall certainly faU. O God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, be thou my constant guide and helper. May I be humble, prudent, and faithful." From our knowledge of his conscientiousness and his sincere love for the duties of the sacred calling, we can readily con- ceive with what earnestness he addressed himself to his work, and how he longed to " make full proof of" his " min istry," With a preparation for the ministry superior to that of most ministers in the denomination with which he was connected, with an impressive manner and attractive personal appear- ance in the pulpit, and by means of that peculiar style of chaste eloquence which always made him so acceptable as a preacher, he gave evidence at once that he was destined to take no ordinary rank as a public speaker. It is true, his con- gregation did not embrace the elite of the town, but there were enough in it of the class to which his blessed Master SUCCESS IN HIS WOEK. 63 loved to proclaim the gospel, and to him the vrinning of one soul to Christ was a matter of such supreme joy and satisfac- tion, that in the gladness of his heart he overlooked all social distinctions, while he welcomed to his heart the humblest one who had been " bom of the Spirit." On the 4th of November he tells us that he had greatly enjoyed the presence of Christ in preaching his word. It was on this day that he first administered the sacred rite of bap- tism. "Nothing occurred," he remarks, "to interrupt or diminish the pleasure of the hour. What infinite satisfaction the harbinger of our Lord must have felt as he walked into Jordan with his blessed Saviour, and laid him beneath its wave I " We learn incidentally how small the church was at this time, from the recorded statement that, on the day when this baptism took place, twenty-eight persons commemorated the Saviour's dying love. Not far from four months had passed since he preached his first sermon in the plain, unpretending meeting-house of the Baptist church in Portsmouth, when he thus writes under date of Sabbath, November 11, 1827 : — To-day have preached four times — three discourses at my own place and one at the Almshouse. God strengthened me wonderfully for the task. Bless the Lord, O my scull Congregation is gradually increas- ing; our prospects of raising a large society are flattering. Sabbath evenings our small place of worship is crowded by people of every rank and persuasion. A greater variety of characters and belief could not well be collected in any place. I find myself in danger of being " lifted up " with pride. I have endeavored to examine myself, and to ascertain what are my motives in preparing and preaching my sermons. I am afraid I have too much regard to the praise of men rather than the praise of God. My heart is deceitful above all things, and too often leads me to forget the God for whom I profess to labor, and to whose honor and approbation I ought to have constant regard. O, the pride of human nature 1 Lord Jesus, divest my heart of a man-pleasing spirit, and help me to glory in thy cross. Perhaps we cannot do better than to let the toiling, earnest minister and pastor tell to us the tale of his hopes and fears, his joys and sorrows. Such a rehearsal cannot fail to encour- 64 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. age the hearts of those who are just entering the ministry, and often feel crushed under the burden of responsibiUty laid on them. 1828. January 1, 1828. " Now my days are swifter than a post; they are passed away as the swift ships, as the eagle hasteth to the prey." How true is this testimony by the godly patriarch of Uz in regard to the celerity of time's flight ! How quickly has another year passed ! and yet how momentous have been its transactions, when considered as bearing on my eternal interests ! Since the year 1827 commenced, I hare passed through various changes in my external circumstances. In all I can perceive the hand of God so ordering everything as to place me where I now am. Preaching seems a duty and delight. Since I left college I have prospered in no other vocation. January 20. This day I have been " down into the water " with three happy converts. The weather was cold, and many thought us madmen for presuming to perform the ordinance at such a time. But we suffered not the slightest inconvenience. If the cross was great, the joy in tak- ing it up was proportionably great. Worldly men have no conception of those feelings which prompt the Christian to so much self-denial and renunciation of the world. July 17. This day concludes the first year of my labors in P. Have preached one hundred and seventy-three discourses, one hundred and fifty-four of which have been preached to one society. Parochial visits more than four hundred ; officiated at eight funerals ; married ten cou- ples ; baptized sixteen. The church has increased from twenty-seven to fifty-three. The congregation numbered sixty-three July 22, 1827, when I preached my first sermon to them. Now it amounts to over three hundred. These facts I record simply for recollection, not to boast ; for, when the providence of God has so evidently done the whole, boasting is excluded. July 20, Sabbath. Had some enjoyment in preaching my anniver- sary sermon. I trust my heart was touched at a view of what God has done for me and my people during the year. I desire to be humbled that I have done so little for him. My imperfect labors God has been pleased to bless. August 31. Exchanged this morning with Eev. Israel W. Putnam (Congregationalist). What though we may differ on some points not essential to salvation, yet may we not retain our own doctrines and prac- tice, and at the same time treat each other as friends and brothers? As Baptists, we are thought precise and narrow in our views and discipline. Yet none are more liberal than we in those offices of kindness and that JOUENAL. 65 interchange of civilities whicli do not require a relinquishment of prin- ciple. Would we were more filled with the spirit of Christ. We should thereby furnish to an infidel world a better proof of the excellence of Christianity. September 24. This day our new house of worship in Middle Street was dedicated to Almighty God. The discourse was from Isa. Ixvi. 12. The season solemn and interesting. May it be crowned by the blessing of Heaven. 1829. January 1, 1829. " The year rolls round, and steals away The breatli that first it gave; Whate'er we do, whate'er we be, We're travelling to the grave." Little, too little, alas ! have I done the past year for my blessed Sa- viour. Been blessed with unusual health, and have enjoyed an unin- terrupted series of blessings from the hand of my heavenly Father. Would I had lived better, prayed more, preached with greater fidelity 1 To-night I address the young. January 25. Enjoyed a refreshing season, — preaching from Hosea xiii. 9, — especially in the afternoon, when considering the gracious offer of restoration, " In me is thine help " did I find peculiar com- fort. My soul longs to see a revival of God's work. Two have re- cently been seriously affected by the power of truth, and now cherish hope, through Christ, of eternal life. The church and society have been compelled to struggle with severe difficulties. No effort has been omitted to check our growth, and, if possible, to ruin us. But God has kindly interposed, has overruled all opposition for his own glory and our good. The Lord has promised, " When the enemy comes in like a flood, the spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him " — and verified it to us. August 10. This day commences the fourth year of the existence of the church of which I am pastor. Three years ago it was constituted of eight members — Kev. Duncan Dunbar, Deacon Samuel Cleaves, Elisha C. Crane, Allen Porter, Sampson Sheafe, Christiana Dunbar, of Newcastle, Mary Brewster, Susan Parke. A small and feeble band truly. Yet God has blessed them beyond measure. They were first publicly recognized in an old hall in Vaughan Street called Assembly House. Now they have a neat, commodious house of worship, with a, good, growing congregation. Great harmony of feeling and unity of action prevail in the church. There is also an untiring spirit of prayer- fulness, which has an excellent effect upon the members, producing en- couragement and faith. We trust the Lord is yet on our side, and will & 66 MEMOIE OP DE. STOW. appear for our help. I have too little faith, too little confidence, in Him whose promise is to "give the increase." Recovering from a severe illness. Have not preached for two Sab- haths, and must be deprived of the privilege yet another. My people are exceedingly kind, and have exhibited much sympathy. Hay I be able to requite them by faithfulness to souls. October 3. Beading Memoir of Legh Richmond, by Grimshawe. The compiler shows himself too much. A biographer should leave his own biography to be executed by another. To me the life is highly in- teresting. Legh Richmond was a man of God, zealous and useful. His tracts. The Dairyman's Daughter, The Young Cottager, or Little Jane, and the Negro Servant, have been useful beyond a parallel. They are read in every quarter of the globe. Mr. Richmond did not write his discourses. October 7. First anniversary of the Portsmouth Baptist Association. Met at Brentwood. Received a visit from a, young lady (M. J.). She professes to indulge some confidence that her sins are pardoned ; that she is justified before God by the atoning merits of Christ. Had consid- erable conversation with her relative to her views of God's character, her own heart, the way of her past life, &c., &c. So far as I gained evidence that the work is genuine, I rejoiced with her. By this inter- view I trust my own heart was quickened. "Awake, O north wind, and come, thou south." October 13. This morning had some warmth in prayer. God seemed near, eternity seemed near. Desired holiness for its own sake. Was told yesterday several young people in the congregation are thoughtful. Refreshing news. What do I desire more than to see my dear people turning to God I In my visits from house to house heard everywhere of the efi°ect produced by my Sabbath sermons. Ferhaps I have never preached two discourses that took deeper hold on the assembly. I ob- served throughout the assembly, especially in the afternoon, an unusual solemnity ; but I was not aware the effect was either so great or general. O, my soul, give God the praise I None but God could thus touch hard and stupid hearts. " Sing, O ye heavens, for the Lord hath done it." October 18. This is the last Sabbath in the second year of my pas- toral labors. What thoughts does it suggest for my admonition I How little have L done! Everything stained with self. What good havel done ? What has the Holy Spirit done by me, a poor, remiss, unfaith- ful servant? Preached this morning from Phil. iii. 18. Described the enemies of the cross, and the causes of their enmity. Lord, enable me this afternoon to speak affectionately and faithfully from the passage, " To-day, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts." November 21. This evening had five inquirers. What pleasure there LETTER TO H. B. HAET. 67 is in directing the sin-sick soul to the great Physician ! It is sweet work to preach Jesus, to dwell upon his love, his sufferings, and his death. Noveraher 28. Three presented themselres before the church for baptism and admission to fellowship. They gave interesting relations of the work of grace upon their hearts, and were unanimously received. Enjoyed a refreshing season. December 6. Preached three times; baptized three; administered the Lord's Supper. Had unusual peace and comfort. It is easy doing duty when the Lord is at work upon the hearts of the people. May I be stimulated to greater activity in my Master's service. December 16. Received a letter from my dear sister (J.), announ- cing the delightful fact that my youngest brother, Peter, has been hope- fully converted. December 29. Earnest desires for the conversion of young men. Wrote several letters to individuals in the parish, in whom I feel especially Interested. Lord, accompany these letters with thy blessing. Only one of the letters referred to in the last extract has come into the hands of the editor. It was addressed to Mr. Henry B. Hart, late of Portland, Me., but then residing in Portsmouth, and a member of Mr. Stow's congregation. It is only a sample of many others written during the ministiy of Mr. Stow, and it resulted, as doubtless many others did, in the awakening and conversion of the person to whom it was addressed. In less than two months from the time of receiv- ing it, Mr. Hart came to rest in Christ as his Saviour, and soon after both himself and his wife were baptized, and re- ceived into the fellowship of the Portsmouth church. He subsequently removed to Portland, Me., and, till the close of his life, was known as an active and influential mem- ber of the Free Street Church, in that city. He always cherished a very tender afiection for the man whose faith- ful admonition and entreaty led him to Christ, and lived in relations of confidence and intimacy with him "till death intervened. The interruption, however, was not long; for, since the preparation of the Memoir was undertaken, the tried friend, the faithful Christian, and the liberal supporter of all good works, followed his early teacher and guide to the rest and glory of heaven. The letter is here inserted. 68 MEMOIE OP DB. STOW. PoETSMOUTH, November 19, 1829. My deak Friend : As your occupation renders it difBcuIt for me to see you, and converse with you personally, as I would wish, permit me in this familiar manner to address you upon a subject of unusual im- portance. I have long felt a tender anxiety for your spiritual interests ; and this anxiety, instead of diminishing with the lapse of time, is daily increasing. Very few individuals in my congregation have occupied so much of my thoughts and prayers. At the time your dear companion professed to receive comfort from the grace of God in Christ her Saviour, I was rejoiced to see that you felt solicitious for your own soul, and hoped that you, like her, would be led to exercise genuine faith in the Redeemer of sinners. Having had since no opportunity for personal conversation, I know not tlie result of the convictions with which your mind was then affected. I presume, however, that you yet indulge no hope that your sins have been forgiven, and that you are prepared to meet Christ in judgment. I have been ever delighted with the serious and fixed attention which you give to the word preached on the Sab- bath, and have consequently indulged the hope that truth would find a lodgment In your heart, and bring you to deep repentance for sin, and belief in the Lord Jesus Christ. Permit me, my dear friend, to urge upon you the great importance of turning to the Lord and serving him with all your heart. I now ad- dress you, not merely as your pastor, but especially as your sincere friend — one who would be willing to suffer much for your soul's salva- tion. Tell me, are you doing what you should to secure that soul's best interests ? Do you live a life of prayer ? Do you make the Bible the rule of action? Do you labor to imitate the meek and lowly Jesus? Are your affections more upon God and heavenly things than upon the objects of earth? I am aware of the excellence of your moral character, the uniform propriety of your conduct, your strict temper- ance, your dislike of vicious society, your regard for the public services of religion, and your respectful treatment of all who give evidence of sincere piety. But, my friend, is your heart right with God? Have you ever seen the sinfulness of your nature ? Do you think you have any genuine love for God? Can you rejoice that the Lord reigns, and that he does everything according to the pleasure of his own will? Do you feel any gratitude to him for the conversion of your wife ? Do you correctly understand and feel the righteousness of his holy law ? 0, how often do you and I violate that good law in heart, even when there is no outward act. Jehovah says, " My son, give me thine heart." How affectionate his language I How reasonable his demand ! O, will you not comply with this demand, and give him your heart without delay ? What pleasure should I feel in being permitted to direct you, penitent JOCENAL. 69 and broken-hearted, to that bleeding sacrifice that was offered on Cal- vary ! What satisfaction would it afford, not to me only, but to your nearest friend, your wife, as well as to numerous others who feel a deep interest for you, could we see you become a genuine disciple of Christ, devoting your youth and health to God, and striving to benefit your fellow-creatures by deeds of rigliteousness ! And do you feel contented, my friend, to remain in your present dangerous condition? Have you no fears that you shall lose your soul? Is not tlie mercy of God bound- less ? May you not now be saved ? Will you not now give up your heart to God, and secure an interest in the Eedeemer's blood before it is forever too late ? If you have any desire to escape the tremendous consequences of sin, or any desire to enjoy an eternal heaven, now is the time. Do not delay. Every hour you lose is bringing you nearer to death and the grave. O, be persuaded to repent and believe the gospel. Receive this, dear sir, as a proof of my undissembled regard for you ; and may we be so happy as at last to meet in a happier, holier state at God's right hand. Yours with esteem. Baron Stow. We return now to the journal, beginning with the entry on the first day of 1830. January 1, 1830. Preached last evening for the Methodists. Am to- night to address the young. The good work still continues ; my labors increase. Our prayer meetings are crowded and solemn. January 24. A good day. Preached three times ; baptized nine. The day was the coldest of the season, but the candidates went forward with firmness, and found a blessing in obedience. I never enjoyed the ordinance more. The good work still advances ; some are daily brought into liberty. January 25. Head often Ezek. iii. 33. If ever I reach heaven, how true that salvation is all of grace ! March 11. Last Sabbath I baptized six, making nineteen since tlie meeting of the Association in October. Had a delightful season at tlie Lord's table. A letter from my dear brother P., giving an account of his experience and baptism, &c. He writes like a real child of God. O that he may hold fast his profession, and be trained up for useful- ness. The Lord may choose him for a minister ; if so, I trust he will be far more holy than his brother B. Bitter storm of wind and sleet. Head the first part of Memoirs of Dr. Payson. What a holy man ! Lord, make me more like Payson ; more like Paul ; nay, more like Jesus. 70 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. April 20. At church meeting last evening, four gave us the relation of the work of grace in their hearts. Our new members are nearly all young. They devolve on me, as well as on the church, a great re- sponsibility. O, thou great Shepherd, keep these lambs, protect them, nourish them, and may they remain steadfast, " perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord." May 1. Have labored hard to prepare three sermons. I remem- ber Professor I. Chase once told me " to prepare my sermons with a view to benefit one sovl; to prepare them with a distinct appre- hension of the value of one soul, and with a willingness to preach to one, should no more be present. In such a case I should not be disap- pointed if my congregation should happen to be very small." Good advice, but, alas ! little regarded. May 2. Had a refreshing hour last evening at the inquiry meeting. Found one more soul rejoicing in the liberty of the gospel — Captain J. L. Some weeks since his wife was brought to a knowledge of the truth, and commenced praying for him. He has been deeply convicted. He is really a new man. His tongue is active in praising the Lord, and warning his companions to repent and return to God. [He was bap- tized early on the morning of bis sailing, and subsequently perished at sea.] July 1. Have received a pressing invitation from the Second Bap- tist Church, Salem, Mass., to become their pastor. Cannot accept. July 6. Have sent a negative answer to the request of the Salem friends. Lord, strengthen me for thy work in Portsmouth. July 15. A committee from Salem waited on me to press their claim, and endeavor to persuade me to think favorably of their request. Could give them no encouragement. They seem determined not to relinquish their object. O that I may be guided in the right way ! I would not be obstinate, but must be decided. At present, cannot leave this in- teresting field. July 30. This day have returned from Maine, where I have been twelve days, attending the examination and Commencement at Water- ville College. On Tuesday was elected a, member of the board of trustees. Wednesday, pronounced the Oration. "Was honored with the degree of A. M. October 16. Received a letter this morning from Dr. Chaplin, of Waterville, renewing the request that I would remove and become the pastor of the church in that place. He is very urgent. In such cases I ought to look to God for direction. I need wisdom from above. Evidently my work is nearly finished here. Whither I shall go I know not, nor do I much care, provided the Lord go before and with me. Blessed Saviour, make me more like thyself. CALLS TO OTHEE CHUECHES. 71 It win be observed that within a few months Mr. Stow received two urgent invitations to remove from Ports- mouth. The Second Baptist Church in Salem, Mass., had become vacant by the resignation of Rev. Mr. Pattison, who had been called to the First Baptist Church in Prov- idence, R. I. The correspondence conducted by the com- mittee — among whom I find the honored names of J. Moii- arty and Robert Upton — is before me. It urges the case very strongly, and presents weighty reasons why the Ports- mouth pastor should accept the- call so heartily extended to him. But he did not feel that he was justified in leaving his present field of labor. After having reached the conclusion that it was not his duty to accept the call of the Salem church, he addressed a letter to Rev. Mr. Babeock, then pastor of the First Church, in which he gives the reasons which have led him to the decision to which he had come. This letter presents Mr. Stow in the most praiseworthy Ught, as actuated by noble. Christian principle in the coui-se which he pursued. PoBTSMonTH, August 9, 1830. Dear Brother Babcock: While the negotiation between the Second Church in Salem and myself was pending, I was several times at the point of writing you, for the purpose of ascertaining your views and feelings upon the subject. But it occurred to me, that, however ready you might be to express your personal feelings, you would find it difficult, from your peculiar situation, to suggest anything that might have a tendency to dissuade me from accepting their proposal. As the negotiation is now concluded, you will permit me to say a few words in reference to the motives which induced me to decline the request. He then alludes to certain pecuniary embarrassments, which were weighing heavily upon his spirits, from which he could free himself if he were to change his pastoral connec- tion. He also refers to the want of denominational sym- pathy which he finds in Portsmouth, the nearest Baptist church being twelve miles ofi". He says he has to be " bishop, rector, vicar, curate, &c.,&c.," and the burdens he carries are almost insupportable. And yet his heart clings to his beloved flock, and he cannot make up his mind to desert them in the hour of their great need. He wiites, — 72 MEJtOIE OF DE. STOW. The ties which bind me to this dear people, and them to me, could not be sundered without pain — I had almost said, without blood. They have done their utmost to sustain the cause, and to make me comforta- ble. They have actually sacrificed for my sake, and conld I leave such friends? This interest is important, and ought to be sustained. Should I leave them in their present condition, I fear that disaster would follow. Besides, my brethren in this state importuned me so urgently to remain, and made out so strong a case in regard to the moral neces- sities of our Baptist churches, that I found it difficult to resist their entreaties. After balancing all the circumstances, I found that personal considerations lay chiefly on one side, and the claims of Zion on the other. I could not hesitate. For Zion's sake I trust I felt willing still longer to sacrifice and suflTer, and commit myself to .Him who best knows what discipline we need to keep us in our proper places. I see little else than suffering before me ; but if the cup cannot pass from me, I implore grace to render me ever willing to drink it. The overtures from Waterville were presented in two let- ters, written by Rev. Dr. Chaplin, president of Waterville College. These letters are characteristic of the writer, and exhibit in a very striking light the persistent energy which carried him through the toils and sacrifices Incident to the foundation of what is now " Colby Univeesity." The sec- ond of these letters contains a re-statement of the matters urged in the first, and we cannot resist the impulse we feel to give it entire, both as illustrating the characteristics of the writer, and as showing the inducements which were expected to influence the decision of one of the most promising Bap- tist preachers of that day. Waterville College, October 23, 1830. Rev. Me. Stow. Dear Sir : When I wrote you last (ten or twelve days since) I had not room to say all I wished to say. The present letter is accord- ingly intended to be an appendix to my former one. I hope you will not be offended because my letters follow one another in so rapid succes- sion, but will impute their frequency to the deep anxiety which I feel for the promotion of learning and religion in this region. In my last I stated that I had secured of our State Convention aid for the Baptist church in this place to the amount of one hundred dollars, on condition that a suitable preacher should be obtained, and that I had a prospect of obtaining two hundred more in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, by the assistance of two of the students of the college. I added. lETTEH FEOM PKESIDENT CHAPLIN. 73 that we would engage to raise at least two hundred dollars in this place. I have since, I thinly, seen some good reason to believe that a larger sum might be raised, provided I could give assurance that you would come. I attended a meeting of our church a week ago. It was much fuller than usual, and very interesting. The members present appeared deeply impressed with the importance of having a faithful and an able pastor, and nearly all the leading men in the church seemed to be sensible of the necessity of more efficient and systematic efforts for the support of the gospel. No vote was passed in relation to the sum to be raised, but I apprehend that in the event of our receiving encouraging assurances from you, we should be able to raise two hundred dollars in the church alone, and two hundred more from people in Waterville. I have expressed to several of the brethren, confidentially, the hope I had that you might be obtained ; and I should have done the same to the members generally, did I not fear we might be disappointed. Con- sidering all things, I thought it best to say no more than this in the church meetings, viz., that matters were in train for procuring a man with whom they would all be satisfied ; and I think you may rest assured that there is not a member of our church who would not be rejoiced to hear that you could be obtained. As it respects myself, and most, if not all, of the oflicers of the college, we do not want you here merely as the minister of the place. Vfc want you here as a member of the board of trustees, as one of our examin- ing committee, and as a friend whom we may consult in difiicult eases, and to whom we may open our minds with freedom and confidence. We want you to visit the pious students, particularly the beneficiaries of our education societies, and to assist us to raise the standard of religious feeling in the college. We wivnt you also to visit our academy fre- quently, and unite with us in concerting measures for promoting its growth and reputation. I will add, we greatly need your aid in our Association, in our Education Society, and in our State Convention. Sliould you remove to this place, and be favored with the blessing of God on your efforts, your sphere of action would be extensive, and your usefulness, as it seems to me, very great. I say, should ilie blessing of God attend your efforts, I am sensible that your talents and acquire- ments would avail nothing without this ; but this, I trust, will not be with- held. For it really seems to me that it is your duty to come ; and I need not tell you that the way of duty is the wiiy of blessing. It seems to me that Waterville is the very place where you are most needed, and where your talents may be employed with the greatest effect. I know there are other places where you may have more hearers. But the character of our hearers is more to bo regarded than the number. Our assembly is not large, but a more interesting assembly can hardly be found in any part of New England. Besides a considerable number of educated and professional men residing in the village, nearly all the 74 MEMOIR OP DE. STOW. students of the college and the academy may be expected to attend our meeting. And how important it is that young men, who, in consequence of their talents and their acquirements, are destined to occupy impor- tant stations in the church or in the civil community, and exert a mighty influence on thousands and tens of thousands of their fellow- men, — an influence which must be felt to the end of time and through eternity, — how important that they have the advantage of sitting under a ministry which is not only distinguished for orthodoxy and piety, but which shall give them clear and extensive views of divine truth, shall make them feel that there is nothing in pure religion incompatible with intellectual greatness, and that a humble, devoted Christian may be a genius and a scholar ! Had you not, my dear sir, rather preach to such an assembly as ours, though comparatively small, than to one much larger, composed of people in the ordinary walks of life ? And, I may add, would you not have the prospect of doing much more good? Per- haps, however, I need say nothing of the smallness of our assembly. There is, I apprehend, good reason to expect that our congregation would greatly increase should you consent to become our pastor. In closing, allow me, my dear sir, to express my earnest desire and my hope that God will graciously assist you in ascertaining your duty, and will give you much of that wisdom which is profltable to direct. If I know my own heart, I do not wish you to remove to "Waterville, unless you can do it with his approbation. To his blessing I desire to commend both you and yours, while I subscribe myself Your friend and brother in the gospel, Jbbemiah Chaplin. It is not easy to conceive how great the disappointment of Dr. Chaplin must have been when he received from Mr. Stow a negative reply to his letters. Evidently his hopes had been highly raised, and his imagination drew a bright picture of the delightful results which would be sure to foUow Mr. Stow's acceptance of the call which would have been extended to him had he given the slightest encouragement to believe he would become the pastor of the "Waterville church. He had, however, waded through too many diffi- culties, and encountered too many trials, to allow himself long to brood over this blighting of his hopes. Meanwhile, the subject of our Memoir, having disposed of a matter which, we doubt not, he most seriously took into considera- tion, continued to make full proof of his ministry in Ports- mouth. CLOSE OF MINISTET IN POETSMOUTH. 75 CHAPTER VI. Last Yeab in Poetsmouth. — Invitations to remove to diffek- ENT Places. — Journal. — Call to Baldwin Place Chbrch, Boston. — Letters from Rev. J. D. Knowles and Dr. Sharp. — Dk. Lamson on Dr. Stow's Ministry in PoETSJionTH. 1830-1832. The course of events has brought us nearly to the closing year of Mr. Stow's ministry in Portsmouth. He is im- pressed, at the commencement of the year, that his ministry here is probably drawing to an end. Some special tokens of the diTine favor manifested themselves early in the year. A few inquirers came to him to converse with him on matters connected with the salvation of their souls. He had suc- ceeded in awakening much interest in the cause of temper- ance. He tells us an anecdote which amused him much. " A genuiae dram-drinker, being asked if he were going to hear my address on intemperance, replied, 'No, I don't like him. I believe, if he were to look at a hogshead of rum, the head would fall in.' " He observes, " I notice how carefully the drunkards shun me, and retailers give me little opportu- nity for conversation." As the weeks pass away, his anxi- eties for a revival of religion increase. In the month of April there was held, for several days, a series of meetings. All these efforts, however, failed to accomphsh the results which he so much desired to see. We give a few more extracts from his journal, which, while they represent him as still active in his ministerial labors, also disclose to us the chain of causes, each one of which had some connection with the dissolution of the ties which bound him to Portsmouth. 76 MEMOIR OP DK. STOW. May 19. Preached at Stratham last evening, from Psalms Ixxxv. 6. Had unusual liberty. In times past I have generally enjoyed more free- dom at home than abroad ; but during the past five or six weeks this thing has been reversed. I have little freedom at home, and much en- largement abroad. Is this an iudication from the Lord touching duty ? I now have an urgent call to remove to Lowell. Shall I go? I am al- most decided in the opinion that my work is done in Portsmouth. I have, indeed, no desire to leave this place. Everything, with one ex- ception, is quite as agreeable as I could expect in any place on earth — my labors are not blessed. In other places, wherever I go, the Lord is pleased to give efficiency to my poor labors. Does this fact speak a lan- guage at all definite upon this point or not t I think I am willing to stay if it be the Lord's will. I fear I may be too impatient, too much unreconciled, too much disposed to think my labors deserve the divine blessing. I know I am greatly wrong at heart. I need, I beg forgive- ness of my God. Show me the right way, O Lord, and sanctify my unholy dispositions. May 30. Returned from Boston. Have been to attend the religious anniversaries. On Wednesday delivered two addresses — one before the Northern Baptist Education Society, upon "the importance of su- perior piety in those whom the church may encourage to preach the gospel ; " the other before the Massachusetts Baptist Missionary Society, on "the physical and moral ability of the church." Sabbath day preached on exchange for Brother Knowles, in Baldwin Place ; in the evening, for Brother Jacobs, Carabridgeport. Weather exceedingly warm, but my heart excessively cold. June 10. Returned from Newburyport. Preached for Rev. Mr. Proudfit in the house under whose pulpit sleep the ashes of that man of God, Rev. George Whitefield. There was something really inspiring in the thought I was so near the dust of such a man. Would that I had more of his spirit. September 29. Since the preceding date, I have passed over consid- erable territory, and through varied scenes. Visited Concord, New Hampton, New London, Newport, and from there came to Boston; thence to Newton to consult with friends on one or two points : first. Shall I go to Ohio, as has been proposed, to be president of a college ? or shall I go to New Hampton, and take charge of the theological de- partment? or shall I stay here? Decided not to go west at present. Could not fully decide between the other two. How good the Lord has been to me 1 Praised be the Lord for all his mercies ; bless him, O mv soul 1 September 80. Heard of the death of dear Brother George D. Board- man, missionary to Burmah. He died among the Karens, February JOCTRNAl. 77 11, 1831. H(;was "a good man, and full of tlie Holy Gliost." His labors were blessed among the Karens. The day before his death he witnessed the baptism of thirty-four converts. Wlio will go and t.ike his place? IIow do the vacancies in our churches multiply 1 Great Head, send forth more laborers ! October 7. Returned from Exeter — the meeting of our Baptist As- sociation. The Lord was evidently with us. Much seriousness e.xists in the place. Several seem to be affected in view of their sinfulness. O that the Lord would pour out his Spirit plentifully upon Exeter, and turn that people to himself! And may I not pray again and again for my own church ? October 18. A day of fasting and prayer in the church. Some signs of returning life. The following evils are to he deplored : 1. Languor in prayer; 2. Deficiency of faith ; 3. Want of brotherly love; 4. Con- fidence in means ; 5. Want of self-denial ; 6. Worldly-mindedness ; 7. Ingratitude for past mercies ; 8. Indecision ; 9. Inconstancy of feeling. October 19. Feel some quickening in prayer. Can get a little nearer the throne. It seems as if the tempter had permission to vex and worry me to his heart's content. He spares no effort to keep me away from a throne of grace, and when I bow before the Lord, he is around me and within me, disturbing my thoughts, drawing away my mind from God, and thrusting in sceptical suggestions. I experience more of his temptations when on my knees than everywhere else. Lord, grant me grace to resist the devil. October 29. Preached last evening in the vestry, from John vi. 45. More men than usual at the meeting. All very attentive. For two weeks I have felt great solicitude for the young men in my parish, that they might hear the truth with profit, and, learning of the Father, they might come to the Son, be useful in his church, and glorify him here- after. For the pupils in the Sabbath school I have been unusually in- terested. They are light and thoughtless. O God, change their hearts, and bring them to the arms of Jesus, that he may bless them. One of the lambs of my flock has died the past week. Help me, O Lord, to improve this providence for the good of the children. November 15. Perplexed and disturbed by another invitation to re- move. The call now is unanimous and persistent from Portland. Within sixteen months I have refused applications from several places. December 15. Sent a negative reply to Portland. My trial and per- plexity in ascertaining duty have been severe, but a kind Providence has marked out my course with sufficient clearness, .and I have con- cluded to continue with this dear people. They are doing all in their power to sustain the interest, and it appears, should I abandon them, it must seriously suffer. 78 MEirOIE 01" DE. STOW. December 31, Saturday evening. In a few short hours the year 1831 will liave finished its course. Jly labors tlie past year liave been many. In not a few instances, here and elsewhere, have they been made useful by the special blessing of God. May I not hope that yet other fruit wUl appear ? To God be all the glory. 1832. January 1, 1832. A monument of divine mercy I come to thee, O God, and dedicate myself anew to thy service. Thirteen years ago yesterday I was baptized upon a profession of faith. What little progress have I made in the divine art of holy living ! I now come to thee to acknowl- edge my dependence, and to take thy Son, with fresh faith, as my Teacher, Priest, and King. On his merits I repose my soul, my all ; in him, and him only, would I hope. January 5. Delivered an address last evening before the Mechanics' Association, on "aristocracy." A large and attentive audience. Have since felt not a little mortified on*' a review of the exercises. I fear I may have done injury to the cause of Christianity by indulging my pro- pensity for satire. February 10. My mind has sweet peace, trusting God. Have some comfort in prayer. It seems as if God really listened to my petitions. that I may be fully recovered from my backslidden state, enjoy again the light of the divine countenance, find duty a delight, preach, and live more exclusively for Christ. February 17. Heard of the death of the Kev. Dr. Cornelius, corre- sponding secretary of the American Board of Commissioners for For- eign Missions. He was a great man, and eminently good. O, my soul, prepare to meet thy God ! February 27. Returned from Boston, to which place I went this day week to assist my dear Brother Knowles in a " four days' meeting." I hope our labors were with profit, through grace. The friends of the Second Church were exceedingly kind — too much so to me. Besides my expenses they presented me with the gift of seventy dollars — a free- will ofiering. Honestly I can say for no part of this did I visit or labor with them. The Lord reward their manifold kindness. February 29. Reading the Life of Thomas Scott, author of the Commentary. Much interested in its developments of internal charac- ter. He entered the ministry September 22, 1772. His motives, he says, were these : — " 1. A desire of a less laborious and more comfortable way of pro- curing a maintenance than otherwise I had a prospect of. [He was previously a grazier.] " 2. The expectation of more leisure to employ in reading, of which 1 was inordinately fond. JOITENAX. 79 " 3. A proud conceit of my abilities, with a vain-glorious imagination that 1 should some time distinguish and advance myself in the literary world. These were my ruling motives in taking this bold step." After reading these confessions I felt constrained to examine my own motives in entering the ministry. Of a truth, I find much to condemn. Still I cannot ascertain that I was influenced in the least by any of the considerations suggested by Mr. Scott. I am aware I never loved man- ual labor — generally avoided it when practicable. This was not occa- sioned by any love of idleness. It was owing to an unconquerable thirst for knowledge. I loved books better. But for a whole year pre- vious to my first thoughts about the ministry, I had fully made up my mind to seek a livelihood, yea, even wealth, by agriculture. I formed plans which are now fresh in my memory, and I became quite ambitious to carry them into splendid execution. There are, probably, a hundred persons in Newport who will never think otherwise than that I entered this most holy work because I was too indolent to labor on a farm. In this, however, I honestly aver that they were mistaken. Neither do I discover that either of the two motives named by Mr. Scott had any in- fluence upon me at the time. I think I then felt an ardent love for souls, a desire to consecrate myself wholly to the Lord's service. I can easily perceive that I did not sufSciently reflect upon the subject, or pray over it, as I should have done. One selfish consideration often had too much weight with me. I greatly dreaded the probability of spiritual declen- sion, and thought the studies preparatory to the ministry, and the duties of the sacred office, would be effectual safeguards against backsliding. How little did I then know of the human heart, or of my own! how little of the temptations to which those very studies and duties would subject me ! September 4. Self-examination makes terrible havoc of my hopes. It shows me more and more the stability of the foundation, but compels me to doubt whether I ever have reposed true confidence thereon. The shipwrecked mariner knows, when his feet are planted on " terra firma," he has the evidence of sensation ; but in spiritual things there is no such certainty. I know Christ is a rock, and if I build upon him I shall never be confounded. But the evidence of so building is not found in my feelings and impressions, but in the course of conduct pur- sued as a consequence. What is my manner of life? I would search myself throughout. September 28. Just returned from Portland, where I assisted in or- daining Brother John S. Maginnis as pastor of the Baptist Church. Gave him the charge, and preached in the evening. October 16. Brother Knowles has resigned his pastorate of the Second Baptist Church in Boston, and accepted his appointment as pro- 80 MEMOIE 01" DE. STOW. fessor at Newton. Letters from him and others inform me that I shall probably be invited by that church and society to become his successor. However flattering may be such a proposition, it will place me in truly perplexing and trying circumstances. Witli the feeble interest here I have become almost wholly identified, and the thought of leaving is very painful. There is but one object on earth that I love as I do this churcli and its welfare. "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do!" If I can live here, and survive my many and crushing embarrassments, I feel I must. Into thy hands, my Master, I will endeavor to surrender my- self, willing to be guided "by thine unerring wisdom." It matters little what I am, or where, if I am only in the path of duty. October 19. The dreaded invitation has at length arrived, and the question is before me — Shall I go or stay f Duty must be done. What that duty is, I am not yet able to decide. I need wisdom from above — that wisdom which is profitable to direct. O God, be thou my guide, even unto death. October 24. The case is decided. I have asked and received a dis- mission from my present charge, and shall soon remove to Boston. A bold and important step. I believe it to be in accordance with the divine will. The way seems plain, and I trust the Lord will enable me to go forward in it, confiding in him. His grace is suflicient for me. October 28. Concluded my labors with this dear people. Preached my last sermon this afternoon. A solemn occasion. O that it may prove a profitable season ! The extracts thus given cover the entire period of his ministry in Portsmouth. Following his own suggestion, and wishing to escape the criticism to which reference has ah'eady been made, the writer has let the subject of this Memoir present the great facts of his history in his own language. No words we could use could convey a better idea of his outer and inner life, while he Avas performing the work, intrusted to his hands during the first five years of his ministry. The question of dissolving the relations which he had sustained to his people was one which deeply touched his sensitive spirit. Besides laying the matter before Him to whom ho was wont to repair in all the emergencies of life, he took counsel of his brethren. The following let- ters from two of his brethren in the ministry, for whom he felt the most sincere regard, may with propriety bo intro- duced here. LETTEE FEOM PEOPBSSOE KNOWLES. 81 Boston, September 22, 1832. Deak Beother Stow : I hare designed to write to you, but I have been ao much occupied by the distressing crisis in which I have been placed, and I have so confidently expected a visit from you, that I have not written. I have been passing through deep waters, but I have at length arrived at firm footing. Suffice it to say that I have become fully persuaded of my duty to leave my present post. My health is not as good as when I first returned, and I am abundantly convinced that if I am to be saved to my family and to the cause, I must throw off the " load would sink a navy." The necessity of another professor at Newton is imperative. Professor Chase must be absent this winter, or he will die ; and to leave the institute with but one professor would im- peril the best interests of the seminary. I have accordingly been appointed professor. I have presented my resignation to the church and society. The former have accepted it, and the latter probably will to-morrow. After the 1st of October, there- fore, I shall no longer be pastor of the Second Baptist Church. The result has given me great pain, and my people feel deeply grieved. Some are unreconciled, and a few, perhaps, will leave the church and society. But there is a general conviction that God has decided the question, and that our plain duty is to acquiesce. There will, I trust, be harmony still, and God will, I hope, guide them to the speedy choice of another pastor. On whom they will fix their choice I cannot tell. There will, un- doubtedly, be preferences for difierent individuals ; but I think that you will be more likely to receive their choice than any other person. God's providence has brought you to the notice of my people, and has attracted towards you their affections in a remarkable degree. He has, too, re- served you at Portsmouth in a way which has always seemed to me in- dicative of some important design. You will probably be requested, at any rate, to come and preach as a candidate ; and if so requested, you must come, and if invited to become their pastor, you must consent. You cannot in such a case mistake the will of God. Whether you will be able to sustain the duties here is a serious question ; but with your ex- perience and your stock of sermons, you may, I think, with prudence labor here a few years at least. The Lord bless and guide you, my dear brother. Our time is short. Let us do with our might what our hand findeth to do. Your affectionate fellow-servant, J. D. Knowles. Mr. Stow seriously objected, under the circumstances, to preach as a candidate, and actually declined to do so. Ap- pealing to his friend Dr. Sharp as to the propriety of the 6 82 MEMOIE OP DE. STOW. course he pursued, he received the following reply to his letter : — Boston, October 9, 1832. Mt dear Brother : I was unexpectedly called out of town yester- day, or I should have answered your letter. I have not seen Mr. Beals, but I had a confidential conversation with Mr. Enowles on Saturday. I learned from him that the brethren approved of the course you had pursued, and the motives which they supposed influenced you in refus- ing to supply them as a candidate. My impression is, that the brethren are satisfied ; but they thought then, and probably think now, that, were it expedient on your part, it would be desirable that the congregation should be better acquainted with you before they proceeded to nominate you as their future pastor. This, no doubt, would secure universal har- . mony of action. I understand, however, that you will be Invited to preach, with the expressed hope that you will become their pastor. This will be an event deeply interesting, both to yourself and to your people. I can only say that, in view of all the circumstances in the case, I trust you will be enabled, in the fear of God, to do what will be best for your own happiness and for the cause which you profess to love. Were your affairs prosperous at Portsmouth, I would remain. But it has appeared to me that a man of inferior, but of different talents from yourself, might, perhaps, succeed you to advantage. I consider your relation to the churches in New Hampshire more important than your relation to the church in Portsmouth. How that deficiency would be supplied I am at a loss to know. I fear that many interests that are dear to you would suffer. Still, a, man cannot for any length of time be useful abroad, if he is harassed and perplexed at home. Should it, in view of all the circumstances of the case, appear to.be your duty to accept the invitation which will be given you to settle as pastor of the Second Baptist Church in Boston, I can only say that I shall rejoice in the event, and cordially welcome you as a fellow-laborer in our Master's vineyard. With the brethren in the vicinity you are acquainted. Tour knowledge of them will be a sufficient pledge of the kind intercourse you will enjoy by being in their neighborhood. May the Lord direct you in this and in all your other concerns. With kind regards to Mrs. Stow, in which my wife unites, I am, dear brother, affectionately yours, Daniel Sharp. A few days after this date, Professor Knowles wrote a second letter to his friend. Newton, October 14, 1832. Dear Brother : You perceive by the date that the agony is over, and that I have torn myself away from my church and congregation. LETTEE FEOM PEOFBSSOB EJTOWLES. 83 Tlio struggle has been severe. Had I known what it would have cost me, and been aware how much some of my people would suffer by my removal, I could not, I think, have determined to go. But the step has been taken, and,' whether for good or evil, it is now irrevocable. My conviction remains unshaken that it was required by a prudent regard for my own health and my future usefulness. I feel, too, that there is here a post of great responsibility, where I may serve Zion more ex- tensively than in any pastorship ; and the existence almost of the insti- tution required another officer here at this juncture. Yet I feel that the pastor is the most important man on earth, and I have made many great sacrifices by coming hither. The Lord grant me grace and wisdom, that I may perform my duties faithfully and usefully. Pray for me, dear brother. I should have written to you on the subject of your last letter, but the bustle and excitement of my removal have prevented me. I see the force of your objection to supplying the pulpit under existing circum- stances. I approve of your decision, and believe that it has raised your character in the estimation of the church. Yet it was well to give you the invitation, because some would not have been willing to act in your favor if the attempt had not been made to give them an opportunity to hear you further. It need not, and ought not, to mortify you that the people are not ready to invite you to become their pastor without know- ing you better. There are, I presume, hundreds in our congregation who would not know you if you should enter the pulpit. They hear so many preachers that they take no notice of any particular individual unless they hear him very often. The church, however, I understand, have voted to invite you to be- come their pastor, provided that the society concur. Many of the church have been unwilling to invite you without hearing you more, and some are opposed to calling a pastor from his people. But our church are accustomed to act together, and those who felt objections have acquiesced in the will of the majority. Whether the society will concur is not certain. They are less acquainted with you than the church are. I hear of no objections, except the want of knowledge of your qualifications. I have no fears that you will fail to satisfy them all, when you have had sufficient opportunities. You ought to consider a call from such a church and congregation as a strong intimation of God's will. You will find them, if you come, a kind people. Trials you must expect, and labors beyond measure. If you consulted your own ease, and the prolongation of your life, you would not come. No one who has been a pastor in Boston would choose the station again, honorable, and in many respects pleasant, as it is. But we are not our own, and have no right to choose our place of labor or of rest. " Lord, S4 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. what wilt thouhave me to do?" is the only question for us. You will come under many advantages, and I pray that you may be sustained for many years, and made a blessing to thousands. We are not yet settled here, and cannot form a judgment respect- ing our prospects of personal comfort; but "the Lord reigneth; let the earth rejoice." Professor Chase will perhaps go to Italy and Greece to spend the winter. Our love to Mrs. Stow. Your affectionate brother, James D. Kkowles. B. Stow. The following communication, prepared by Rev. W. Lam- son, D. D., of Brookline, Mass., who for several years was the pastor of the church in Portsmouth, properly finds a place at tliis stage of the Memoir : — Dr. Stow's Ministkt in PoBTSMonTH, N. H. Mt dear Brother Stockeridge : In response to your request for a paper on Dr. Stow's ministry in Portsmouth, I must express my regret that I can do little more than record general impressions. It was my privilege to hear only one sermon from him during his minis- try there, but that made a profound impression on me. The text I have forgotten, and the theme ; and I only remember that the crucifixion was so vividly painted, that I — a lad then — felt as though I had actually seen it. Many years after that, in 1848, I accepted a call to the pastorate of the same church in Portsmouth to which he had ministered. Sixteen years had passed since he had finished his labors there, and during those years the church had had a succession of good and able pastors ; but, as I became acquainted with the people, I found it was his ministry that was most vividly and affectionately remembered, and that not by his own people alone, but by the whole community, he was held in the highest esteem. It was in 1827 that Baron Stow received and accepted the invitation to settle in Portsmouth. There was little there to attract an aspiring man in the condition or prospects of the church. It had been but recently constituted ; its members were few, and its resources were limited. What there was to draw a young man of brilliant talents and of good education in the little handful of Baptists who then consti- tuted the church, we may not be able to see. But Portsmouth was in his native state, and was the seaport of the state. Its population was but a little rising eight thousand; yet it was, as it ever since has been, distinguished for the general refinement anfl culture of its citizens. The EEMINISCENCES BY DE. LAJISOlf. 85 learned professions at that time embraced some who were just rising into distinction, and who afterwards became eminent. In tlie law were such men as Jeremiah Mason, Ichabod Bartlett, Levi Woodbury, Est- wicke Evans, and W. H. T. Hackett. In the ministry were Charles Burroughs, Israel W. Putnam, and Nathan Parker, and others. Per- haps there was no town in New England, of its size, where the standard of general culture was higher, or in which there were more men of eminent intellectual power. And then the town was finely located at the mouth of a noble river, and abounded in liistorio associations. Tliese attractions, added to the hope of seeing the little obscure band of Baptists grow in strengtli and prominence, decided the young and elo- quent preacher to accept the call. At that time the church numbered but thirty, and only eight male members. The old " Pitts Street Chapel," as it was called, was tlie place of worship. Through tlie cour- tesy of the proprietors of the " South Meeting-house," Baron Stow was ordained to the Christian ministry in that more spacious edifice, and installed as pastor of the Baptist Church. Tlie little church gave liim their afiection, their sympathy, and their cooperation, and he thrilled and delighted them every Sabbath by his earnest and eloquent sermons. Tliere were no men of large resources among them, but there were some of large hearts and strong faith. Led and stimulated by their pastor, this little band conceived and executed the bold project of building one of the most beautiful churches in the state, in perhaps the most eligible lot in the town. The house was erected in 1828. And now the young preaclier had a fit place in which to deliver his messages. At his Sabbath evening services the house was thronged, and among his hearers were many of the most cultivated and intellectual from all the congregations. His popularity as a man and a preacher steadily in- creased. He became an active member of a forensic club, and made his mark there. He was made welcome in many homes beyond the limits of his own parish. Without compromising one iota of his de- nominational views, he was the cheerful companion and the agreeable guest of those who, theologically, differed widely from Iiim. Attracted to hear bim by his fervor and eloquence, they were certain to listen to the most evangelical doctrines and the most pungent appeals. But his ministry was not merely popular — it was, in the best sense, effective. The church grew in spiritual strengtli, in Christian zeal, and in numbers to tlie very close of his labors among them. It was a bright and happy period in the history of the church, when, with their almost idolized preacher, they entered their new place of worsliip. The strug- gle was over. They had a home. The question was settled. They were to live. . They seemed just about to receive the reward of their anxieties, and toils, and sacrifices. But after a short season of this enjoyment 86 MEMOIE OP DE. STOW. and hope, the blow came which almost crushed them. The Baldwin Place pulpit, Boston, was vacant. The church was nearly a century old, and had been ministered to by Baldwin and Knowles as its latest pastors. It was the Baptist church in the state. In looking over the whole denomination, their eye could rest on no one but the popular preacher of Portsmouth. It was hard for the little church, then stagger- ing under a heavy debt, exhausted by the mighty effort they had made, and resting all their hopes, under God, in their pastor, to be deprived of him. It was felt to be so. Baldwin Place acknowledged it. But, then, Boston was the centre. It was the place for the best gifts. Mr. Stow's influence would be increased many fold. The call was unanimous and imperative. It was accepted, and the little flock in Portsmouth, bereft of their shepherd, mourned as one that mourneth for an only son. It has been said that Baldwin Place is where Baron Stow did his great work, and exhibited his great power. And it was there that the largest crowds of " admiring, tearful, penitent, converted hearers hung upon his lips." He was in the prime of his manhood. He knew his strength. Preaching was no longer an experiment. He was at home in the pulpit. Measured by popularity, by the number who attended his ministry, or by immediate results, Baldwin Place was the theatre of his noblest ex- ploits. But it may be doubted if he was ever more beloved, or ever happier, than during the brief period that he ministered to his little Portsmouth flock. In just five years his ministry there closed. Ordained October 24, 1827, he took leave of them October 24, 1832. The fruits of his minis- try remain to this day. No subsequent pastor has been able to JiU the place which he filled in the hearts of the older members of that church. The house built for him still stands, reconstructed and made more beautiful, and is filled each Sabbath with an earnest and vigorous con- gregation. Scattered among this congregation are a few, a little rem- nant, of those who, forty years ago, saw the " electric flash of his eye," and listened to the tones of his magic voice. But by far the greater number preceded him to the spirit world, and these will soon follow. WnxiAM Lamson. Bbooklixe, October, 1870. BALDWIN' PLACE CHUECH. 87 CHAPTER VII. Sketch op the Histoky op the Baldwin Place Chtjbch. — Per- sonal Reminiscekces. — Installation. — Success in his Woek. — Journal. 1832-1834. A BRIEF glance at the history of the Baldwin Place Church, to which Mr. Stow had been called, and to which he gave the best energies of his ministerial life, will not be deemed out of place. The occasion of its foi-mation was the dissatisfaction of quite a number of the members of the First Baptist Church with the preaching of the pastor, Rev. Jer- emiah Condy, whom they regarded as not "sound in the faith." The church was organized July 27, 1743, and was known as the Second Baptist Church of Boston. Its first pastors were Rev. Ephraim Bownd, Rev. John Davis, Rev. Isaac Skillman, D. D., and Rev. Thomas Gair. The death of Mr. Gair, a young man of great promise, was a sad blow to the church. A few months after his decease, the church invited Rev. Thomas Baldwin, D. D., to become his suc- cessor. During his pastorate of thirty-five years, eight hun- dred and twenty-six persons united with the church. The ministry of Dr. Baldwin was an eminently successful one, and the influence of his preaching, and his holy examj)le, still remain in the venerable church over which, for so many years, he presided. He was succeeded in the pastoral office by Rev. James D. Knowles, who retired, at the end of seven years, to enter upon the duties of professor in the Newton Theological Institution, where he remained until removed by death. May 9, 1838. 88 MEMOIR OP DE. STOW. The church, being once more destitute of a minister, began to think about a successor to Professor KJQOwles. The suc- cess which had followed Mr. Stow in Portsmonth, and his marked ability as a preacher, were well known to them. "While they believed that a wider, and perhaps more fruitful field would be opened to him in Boston than he was now occupying, yet many of the church conscientiously held the opinion that it is wrong to call a pastor from another church, where his relations are all pleasant, and they were opposed to taking any action which might sever the tie which bound the Portsmouth pastor to his church and society. There was, however, one man among the members of the Baldwin Place Church, of great force of character and strength of will, who was attached to his church, and who was inclined to adopt the more modern theory that a good minister, wher- ever found, is a lawful prize. This was Deacon Ezra Cham- berlain. In company with one or two brethren, he visited Portsmouth, and had a frank, fraternal conversation with Mr. Stow, and discovered what the state of his feelings was, as it has been revealed in the extracts which we have already laid before the reader. The church of which he was the pastor, with all the spiritual prosperity which had attended it, was crippled in its resources, and it seemed exceedingly difficult to get out of the straits in which they found themselves. Calling together a few of the prominent men of the church, Deacon Chamberlain asked them in a plain, business-like way, what it would cost to remove their debt, and put their meet- ing-house in repair. He then, in an equally frank way, stated tlie great importance of securing at once a pastor for the Baldwin Place Church; that he had no doubt Mr. Stow would receive a unanimous vote, if he would consent to be a candidate ; that he would be more comfortably provided for than he could be in Portsmouth ; and he pleaded with them to release him from his pastoral connection, pledging himself. EAELT MISriSTET IN BOSTON. 89 Retuming to Boston, Deacon Chamberlain called together some of his brethren, and related to them the circumstances connected with his visit to Portsmouth. "Now," said he, "bretliren, we must open our purses, and raise what is re- quired to pay the debt of the Portsmouth church, and repair the meeting-house." There was a cheerful response to this demand, and the sum needed — which, as we shall hereafter see, was one thousand dollars, and which, in those days, was no inconsiderable sum — was in due time subscribed, and the chm-ch at Portsmouth, not without the severest pang of regret, consented to relinquish their claim on their pastor. The sorrow at paiting was mutual, and there never ceased to be the warmest affection, the one for the other. A letter written by Dr. Stow, and read at a large gathering of the members, past and present, of the Baldwin Place Church, Feb. 13, 1865, is full of pleasant reminiscences of the early days of his ministry in Boston. The church were about to abandon the old sanctuaiy, around which clustered so many holy associations, and the letter, of which we quote a part, was prepared by him as his contribution to the memorial services. Coming direct from my New Hampshire home, one hundred miles away, I first entered Boston June 19, 1822, and stopped with Dr. Bald- win, then residing in tlie large wooden house at the north-west corner of Portland and Hanover Streets. To see that godly veteran had long been my desire. Wlien he resided in Canaan, N. H., he had often preached in my native town ; and I had heard the older people speak warmly of his sermons in private dwellings, in barns, and In orchards, and of his baptizing the converted in streams, which had to me, on that account, a special sacredness. I had re.ad everything from his pen that came in my way, and especially the quarterly numbers of the Massachu- setts Baptist Missionary Magazine, of which, for many years, he was sole editor. One of his printed sermons, read by my father to his fam- ily on a Sabbath evening, made a deep impression upon my mind, and was never forgotten. The man of God, upon whose hospitality I had no claim, gave me a cordial welcome, and assigned me what he pleasantly called " the prophet's chamber." To him, and the late Ensign Lincoln, both of precious memory, 1 was indebted for means to defray the expense of 90 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. my passage in the schooner Beaper, Captain Percival, to Baltimore, on my way to enter Columbian College, at Washington. Brother Lewis E. Caswell, then keeping a shoe store in Union Street, interested him- self for me, and, besides other favors, gave me a book, — Jones on the Trinity, — wliich I stiU have, and cherish as a memento of appreciated kindness. The Eev. Joseph Elliot, whom I had known in the coun- try, was then pastor of the Dudley Street Church, in Eoxbury, and I walked out to see him, and acknowledge some tokens of his generosity. The long road, now Washington Street, was then called, in different sections, by different names — as Cornhill, Marlborough Street, New- bury Street, Orange Street, &c. The bookstores of Samuel T. Arm- strong, Lincoln & Edniands, Manning & Loring, were to me objects of interest, for I had read many a book with their imprint. I looked long at the Old South Church, for I knew its history in connection with the American revolution. As I passed onward, I was interested in the signs on shops and stores, and noted especially the frequency of one, "Licensed to keep and sell gunpowder." Beyond Boylston Market the buildings were mostly of wood, and scattered. Much of the space was devoted to vegetable and flower gardens, with shrubbery and fruit- trees. In what is now ward eleven, a city in itself, there was but one street, and the dwellings were very few. The South Cove, on the one side, and Back Bay on the other, were visible for a long distance. There was the isthmus, and I thought of Charles Wesley's hymn, — " Lo ! on a narrow neck of land 5 " but, as I could see across the waters on either side, I could not exactly add, — " 'Twixt two unbounded seas I stand." As it was then high tide, I noticed at one point, that the water on each side came nearly up to the rude fence. In the pastures were masses of conglomerate rock, or pudding-stone, and clumps of barberry bushes, and other slirubs. Little did I then dream that " the Neck" would, in two scores of years, receive such a dilatation, and have lavished upon it such an outlay for the homes of a swarming population. Eoxbury was then too far off for " annexation ; " now she is too near for her long to avoid that result. As I looked over the expanse of Back Bay, and marked the long line of beach, there was no prophecy indicating that the Second Baptist Church, nestled at tlio foot of Copp's Hill, would ever be transferred to a point then far out from the shore, and deeply buried in tide-water. EEMINISCENCES. 91 Friday morning he inquired if I had ever preached. My answer was, " I have tried a few times." " Well," said he, " did you not succeed? This evening will be our weekly lecture, and I wish you to give them a plain New Hampshire talk, such as I used to give the folks up among your native hills. We are a plain people, and you need not be afraid." I had then more confidence in my ability to preach than I now have, and required not much urging in that direction. As the vestry on the south side of the narrow court, since widened into Baldwin Place, was small and inconvenient, the service was held in the house which you are now vacating, and I stood at the communion table. My text was Matt. xvi. 26 : " What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul"? Like some other beginners, I was not dismayed at tlie greatness of my subject. I was favored with "liberty," and had good attention ; but it did not once occur to me how presump- tuous I was in venturing to stand in the place of tlie great Baptist apos- tle of New England. Those who remember him will understand me ■ when I say that in two days I had seen enougli of his meek gentleness and paternal cordiality to make me unembarrassed by his presence. At the close of the service he put his hand upon my head, and blandly said, " My young brother, you have a good voice. Go to Washington, and let Dr. Staughton tutor it a while, and I guess you will make a preacher." My college room-mate, James D. Knowles, and myself were guests at Dr. Baldwin's in August, 1825. On the Sabbath, August 21, Mr. Knowles preached in the morning, and Dr. Baldwin in the afternoon — his last sermon in Boston. That evening Dr. Baldwin bade us good night, and retired early, saying he must meet Deacon Bacheller and wife, of Lynn, at the steamboat wharf by half past three the next morn- ing. We heard the carriage at the door before daylight, and soon it bore away the good man and his wife, to return the following week under greatly changed conditions. The next Friday evening I preached the lecture in the Second Church, and was introduced to several members, who, sevenyearsafterw'ards, w^comedmeaspastor. I was stopping with Deacon Heman Lincoln, then residing in Lynde Street, when, at the hour of breakfast, news came of the sudden decease, on the 29th, of Dr. Baldwin, at Waterville, Me. As tlie steamer bearing his remains came up the bay, the bells of the city were tolled, and the crowd on the wharf was immense. The impression of that scene is deep and inefiaceable in my memory. Boston has since paid funeral honors to manjr a great man departed, but over no one have so many tears of afl'ectionate grief been shed. Goodness commands a deeper heart-homage than greatness. During the ministry of Mr. Knowles as your pastor I was often in Boston, and proaclicd for him many a sermon. From our earliest 92 MEJIOIE OF DE. STOW. acquaintance we had been intimate. Pew knew him as well as myself. Hundreds admired him for his superior talent, his pure taste, liis literary culture, and his refinement of manners, but only those whom he admit- ted to his confidence understood the warmth of his heart. With the appearance of cold reserve and self-satisfaction he was really one of the most simple-hearted and child-like of men. Luther Rice once said of him in my hearing, " I could never get beneath his jacket." That was probably the feeling of many, but it was not true of all. He was far from demonstrative with his aifections; but he was kind in spirit, and remarkably lenient in his judgment of others. I have never known the man whom I loved more, or who proved himself, on long acquaintance, wortliy of greater respect. In February, 1832, I assisted him a whole week in a protracted meet- ing. The streets were almost impassable from the depth of the snow, but the attendance was good. The meetings were held principally in the vestry, and, as the pastor was not in good health, were chiefly under my direction. Prayer was heard, and good was done, but the apparent results were not large. Early in the following autumn, soon after the resignation of Mr. Knowles, I was invited by a committee to preach a few weeks in Bald- win Place, apparently as a supply, but, as I well understood, with refer- ence to something further. I was then pastor of the Middle Street Church, in Portsmouth, N. H., and my sense of justice to that dear peo- ple forbade my compliance with such a request, and I simply declined it. A few weeks afterwards an invitation came from both the church and society to become their pastor. That I could honorably accept, and my affirmative answer was promptly given. My first sermon was the week- ly lecture in the vestfy, November 2, 1832, from Psalms Ixxxv. 6 : "Wilt thou not revive us again, that thy people may rejoice in thee? " The sermon was intended as a key-note of my ministry in that place, as it had been in my previous pastorate, and many of you are aware how conformable to it were my labors. My first residence was at 39 Charter Street, in a house owned and long occupieiJ by Deacon Joseph Woodcock. My first funeral was of a child of Lewis Smith, in Prince Street. The first couple I married were Samuel Parks and Eliza S. Puller, in Port- land Street. At the time of my settlement, the northern part of the city contained very few foreigners. The nearest Roman Catholic place of worship was in !^ranklin Street. The population was dense ; and, though not of the wealthier classes, they were of the kind most easily reached by evangelical influences. The congregation was remarkably homoge- neous. There were no aristocratic families. None were above attend- ing a vestry meeting. It was refreshing to see how general and how INSTALLATION. 93 cordial was the feeling of social equality. To the prevalence of that feeling I attribute, under God, much of my success in that field. I had no temptation to cater to the taste of any particular class ; all were about on a level, and every sermon, like the scythe of a mower, might shave to the ground. Very few of my hearers resided south of a line running from Long Wharf through State, Court, and Cambridge Streets, to Cambridge Bridge. When the house was fullest, from ISSl to 1845, tlie great body of my people resided north of Elm and Portland Streets. I proba- bly had then more Americans every Sabbath than can now be found in the first ward. We shall have occasion hereafter to quote other portions of this letter. Resuming our sketch from the time when he commenced his labors in Boston, we find the same distrust of himself, and the same looking up to God for help, that we have noticed in other crisis periods of his life. " The charge I now assume is immense. I am inadequate to its duties. I would take hold of God's arm." The services of installation occun-ed on November 15, 1832. Rev. Professor Knowles, as was most fitting, preached the sermon. Rev. Dr. Sharp offered the installing prayer, and Rev. Dr. Hague gave the right hand of fellowship. Passing over the record of the next few weeks, we turn to his journal, commencing with the following date: — 1833. January 1, 1833. Another year forever gone. How eventful it has been to me ! How full of anxious care, hopes, and disappointments ! My mercies have been numerous, and so have my sins. Have labored much, and apparently effected little. To-day I would bow down in gratitude and penitence before my Maker, Benefactor, and Preserver. that my heart may love him and adore I March 30. Cheering intelligence. The Rev. Luther Crawford has accepted the Invitation of the Portsmouth church to become their pastor. 1 feel grateful to God for providing them so good and able a man. May he prove a blessing to that dear people. A heavy burden of care and responsibility is now removed from me. I can give myself more fully to my duties in Boston. Yet God forbid I should cease to pray for dear Portsmouth. 94 ITEMOIE OF DB. STO'W. April 19. Returned from Portsmouth. Preached there last evening, at the installation of Eev. L. Crawford, as pastor of the Middle Street Baptist Church. Enjoyed a refreshing scene among old friends. Lord, bless both people and pastor. May 11. Called upon Mr. and Mrs. Sutton, arrived recently from Cal- cutta. Mr. Sutton is a missionary of the English Baptists ; has long been laboring in Hindoostan. Mrs. Sutton went from this city as the wife of Brother Colman, who died at Cox Bazaar, Arracan. They came home in the Fenelon, together with Brother and Sister Wade, and a Burman and a Karen, both converts. August 4. Baptized four this morning in our new baptistery. The season was truly a pleasant one, the congregation large and attentive. October 3. We have now eleven candidates for baptism. Should my health permit, I shall baptize them next Lord's day. Five are re- cent converts ; two are members of a Congregational church ; the others have had hope in Jesus for some time, but the Lord has now brought them out not only to see, but to feel, the claims of duty. We trust we are beginning to see good days. The church are more awake than I have seen them since my removal to the city. Lord, arouse them still more. O, shed forth the vivifying influences of the Holy Spirit, and excite all our powers to more vigorous action. Let us see thy glory in the sanctuary, and rejoice in thy salvation. Thanks, everlasting thanks for what I now enjoy. Bring me forth as gold from the furnace, seven times purified, and more fit for the Master's use. October 6. Though feeble, performed some service in the sanctuary. Baptized two in the morning, in the afternoon gave them the right hand of fellowship. In the forenoon my dear Brother John N. Brown preached, " on the nature and importance of positive divine institutions." It was an excellent discourse. In the afternoon my equally dear Brother Kufus Babcoek, Jr. preached upon the " adaptedness of the divine good- ness to lead sinners to repentance." It was truly refresliing to hear him. This has been a good day. Many of the saints have richly en- joyed it, and I trust the services may be rendered useful to the whole congregation. October 9. Eeturned from Salem, where, last evening, I assisted in setting apart Mr. John B. Cook and wife as missionaries to Siam. Pro- fessor Ripley addressed the people. Dr. Bolles gave them instructions, and I gave them the right hand of fellowship. Lord's day, December 15, 1833. Preached this morning from Psalms xlvi. 10, " Be still and know that I am God," with reference to the death of two young men, S. W. L. and W. C. Had some clear and soul- humbling views of the divine sovereignty — contemplated God as above all, managing with perfect ease and rectitude the wliole machinery, material and spiritual, of his universe. How great is God ! How per- fect ! THE EARNEST WOEKEE. 95 December 31. This year is closing. Let me review, before God, its scenes — its cares, sins, blessings, and joys. Much have I to be thankful for, much to repent of. I have preached one hundred and fifty-five sermons, married forty couples, attended thirty-nine funerals, and baptized forty-three. To God I commend my labors, my family, my people, my whole self. I am a sinner, with no hope of heaven except through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ. The year just enclecT had been a memorable one in the life of Mr. Stow. He had begun to learn how pressing and with- out cessation are the cares which devolve on the pastor of a large city church. With his usual zeal, and earnest longings for the spiritual welfare of those intrusted to his care, he had thrown himself into his work. Dissatisfied unless he saw positive and visible fruits of his ministry, he taxed mind and heart in the preparation and delivery of his sermons. Those who remember the early days of his ministry in Baldwin Place recall with great vividness his personal appearance in the pulpit ; how his eye would light up with a sacred fire, his countenance beam with unwonted emotion, and his whole form become dilated into an appearance of dignity and solem- nity which both captivated and awed his hearers. Very rarely does the eloquence of the .pulpit send forth a purer lustre than it shed from that holy spot where he stood who was " a burning and a shining light." And if his ministerial greatness showed itself in the sacred desk, not less did it appear in his pastoral work. It can be said of him, as Pro- fessor Park has said of William Bradford Homer, " He visited the sick chamber with literal sickness of heart, and, when called to attend a funeral, he felt as one personally bereaved." "He was desirous of seeing an immediate influence from every sermon, and was grieved if he did not see it. The truths which he uttered from the pulpit so absorbed his atten- tion, that they often awaked him by night." All through the year, to the record of which we have briefly adverted, his journal indicates the intensity of his desires for the religious welfare of his people. Every hopeful sign of the coming of a revived state of religion was watched with most lively 96 MBUOIK OP DB. STOW. interest. His whole being seemed to be pervaded with unut- terable joy and gi-atitude, if he saw anything like the tokens of the presence of the Holy Spirit. How often, in reading these outgushings of his heart's longings, we have been reminded of the words of the Psalmist, "I wait for the Lord ; my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning; I say, more than they that watch for the morning." A minister of less sensitive temperament would have dismissed these anxieties with the feeling that he had no right to indulge in them, if he had a reasonable conviction that he had done his duty. But Mr. Stow was ever placing the standard of duty higher and higher. Any approximation to what might once have been his ideal seemed to raise that ideal to a loftier plane, and in proportion as he struggled to reach it, it was ever eluding his grasp. No wonder that the laboring spirit made such great drafts on the depressed and often physically prostrated body. No wonder that the nerves, stretched to such a tension for days and weeks, felt the strain, and that, in the reaction, there came a gloom some- times as great as the exultation he had felt in the service of his Master. Again we lift the veil, and once more look on the record of his daily life, both inner and outer. 1834. January 1, 1834. " The goodness of God endureth continually," whereof the preservation of my life, and the numerous blessings that encompass my path, are witnesses. Now entering upon a new year, I would devote myself afresh to God — would take the Lord anew as my portion, all my hope. May my growth in grace be more and more rapid. January 6. A day of general fasting and prayer among the church- es. May the prayers to-day be fervent, believing, and effectual, so God may be glorified and his churches benefited. For fourteen evenings in succession the church under my charge have met to con- fess, exhort, and praise, and pra}'. The effect has evidently been good. Backsliders have been reclaimed; some sinners seem touched with a sense of their guilt. I trust tliey are not mere appearances, yet I hard- ly dare confide in them, so deceitful is the heart, and so easy is it to produce excitement, when there is no depth of principle. JOUENAL. 97 January 24. This morning had some enlargement in prayer — some sweet sense of the divine presence. A portion only of the church seem awake and earnest in prayer ; but God has heard them, and given some tokens of good. "My heart breaketh for the longing it hath" unto the salvation of God. Lord, enable me to confide wholly in Thee — vain is man. February 17th. O Lord, my Lord, one thing I desire of thee — that thou wilt convert sinners, and give me souls for my hire. Even if I am not permitted to see the fruit of my labors, let this he the fruit- age, that " I may rejoice in the day of Christ Jesus." Thou seest the multitudes that come to hear: shall tliey hear in vain t Into thy care I commit my dear people, my labors for their good, and myself. Wilt thou sanctify rae, and qualify me more fully for my work? Wilt thou not give effect to my labors here? Is anything too hard for thee? March 31. " Truly God is good to Israel." My people continue to be blessed with the life-giving influences of the Spirit. Since the meeting of the Boston Baptist Association, in September last, I have baptized forty, some of tliem the fruits of the venerable Baldwin's labors, others of the labors of my immediate predecessor, and not a few recent converts. Yesterday I baptized eight; others give evidence of a change of heart and life. Surely we have occasion to bless God, and magnify his name. Two young men have been very active in procur- ing an organ for the church at an expense of two thousand dollars, which was used yesterday for the first time. May 9. Just returned from New York, where I have been for the last two weeks, attending the anniversaries of various religious socie- ties. Preached three times, made two public addresses, saw much and heard much, enjoyed seeing many friends. Delighted again to recom- mence my labors. Regular pastoral duty I prefer to all things else. Lord's Day, June 29. This morning Brother Knowles preached for me, — an excellent discourse, — and I baptized throe interesting candi- dates. Evening services were held ; eleven new missionaries were set apart to their work in Burmah and Siam, at the Baldwin Flace Church. The throng was immense. July 2. This morning the missionaries sailed for Burmah. They were Messrs. Wade, Dean, Howard, Vinton, Osgood, and Comstock, with their wives. The crowd on the wharf was large, and the services truly solemn. At half past nine "the gallant ship was sheeted home," and she moved down the harbor with a mild but favoring breeze, while the brethren and sisters on board sang, " Yes, my native land, I love thee," &c. God speed them on their way. " Thy kingdom come." August 8. Left home on the 7th ult., with my dear E. Journeyed by a circuitous route to Windsor, Vt., Newport, N. H., &c., &c. Re- 7 98 MBMOIE OP DE. STOW. turned last evemng after a delightful visit to our numerous connections. Preached ten times ; delivered one temperance address. Walked and rode very much. Enjoyed good health, and revived in memory a thou- sand scenes of our childhood; lived over again the joyous days of youth. October 29. This evening had but half a congregation, owing to heavy rain. Preached from 2 Cor. v. 19 — " God was in Christ recon- ciling the world unto himself." Had labored hard Saturday to get hold, of the glory of the declaration, but accomplished little. While preach- ing, the subject opened upon my mind with fresh splendor, but, cramped by my plan, I was utterly unable to present my views to the people. So deeply was my mind impressed with this grand theme, 1 wanted to preach it over again. Is God in Christ? Then let me be in Christ also. There the two extremes can meet. There the hostile parties can be reconciled, and there only, God was of old in tlie tabernacle, and in the holy place of his temple, ready to hold intercourse with men — those were shadows of this great truth, God in Christ. AmIinChrist? Then am I a new creature. Then am I not condemned. (Kom. viii. 1.) Then have I peace with God. (Rom. v. 1.) Glorious, glorious plan! Thus God retains his dignity, and shows his abhorrence of our rebellion and depravity. Thus he condescends without impairing his integrity, or conniving at our guilt, or jeopardizing the interests of holiness. I wonder not the proud, the Pharisaical, the vicious, h.ite the doctrine of Christ in God. I wonder not that the humble, the broken-hearted, the holy admire and love it. We might have made more copious extracts from the jour- nal of Mr. Stow during this year ; hut those given present us with good illustrations of the general tone of his feelings, and the character of the work in which he was engaged. With great conscientiousness and untiring industry he de- voted himself to his ministerial and pastoral work, and God set the seal of his approbation upon these labors. His con- gregations were uniformly large and attentive, and already his church had increased so much in numbers, that the ques- tion of colonizing began to be agitated. The opening of a new year finds him at his post, and he begins it with im- ploring anew the divine blessing upon his work. DECLINES THE SECRETAETSHIP OF THE CONVENTION. 99 CHAPTER VIII. Elected Secketakt of the Tkiennial Convention. — Declines. — Journal. — Correspondence. — Letter to the Baldwin Place CHnncii. — Journal. 1835-1836. The beginning of a new year found Mr. Stow cherishing the hope that the special favor of Heaven would be vouch- safed to him in the discharge of his duties. His service of a little more than a year had made him acquainted with his people, and his ready sympathy had brought him in close contact with their hearts. We know how strong were the ties of affection which bound the pastor and his church in the bonds of a union which only grew closer and dearer with the lapse of time. From the commencement of his ministry, the church felt that God had highly favored them in granting them so choice a ministerial gift. As his reputation extended and his influence widened, they felt a new pride in him, and ■were not backward in showing their appreciation of him. We shall observe, from the extracts which we continue to give from his journal, that he was growing in the estimation of the churches and the community. The interest which he took in the cause of foreign missions led the board of managers of the Triennial Convention to turn their attention to him as a suitable person to fill the responsible position of secre- tary ; and we shall find that, at the meeting held this year in Richmond, Va., he was elected to this office. He declined it, however, not because his heart was not in the work, but because his attachment to his people was so strong that he would not leave them for any other position to which 100 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. his brethren might invite him, unless the call of God was too clear to be resisted. No man ever placed a higher esti- mate on the pastorate, or gave stronger evidence of his sin- cere love for ministerial work, than Baron Stow. 1835. January 1, 1835. In the grace of God I am »preserved to see the opening of a new year. Should my life be prolonged another year, may it be more completely devoted to God, and filled up with useful service. May 10. Returned, after an absence of four weeks, to Richmond, Va., where I attended the session of the Baptist General Convention. Services were delightfully refreshing. May 16. The Convention saw fit to elect me as one of tlieir corre- sponding secretaries. My duty seems clear not to accept. I cannot leave the dear people over whom the Lord has manifestly placed me, and in whose eyes he has given me undeserved favor. I wish no higher honor than to be pastor of the Second Baptist Church. August 21. This afternoon a large meeting has been held at Faneuil Hall, to denounce, and if possible put down, the friends of the crushed slave. There seems to be a fixed determination that they shall be de- prived of the freedom of speech and of the press. All the churches, and almost every hall are closed against the discussion of the subject of sla- very. The cause of the oppressed is shut out, and with it the God of the oppressed. The number of names to the call of the above meeting is over fifteen hundred. Who will like to read his name there one hun- dred years hence ? September 22. This day twenty missionaries, accompanied by Mr. • Malcom, as agent of the board, sailed for the East. The scene was de- lightful. O God, preserve thou them, and render them all extensively useful. Painful news from Lowell. Brother Enoch W. Freeman, pastor of the First Baptist Church in that town, died this morning, of cholera '. morbus. For a week past I have felt unusual solicitude for the conversion of sinners. All seem thoughtless ; but God has given me desires such as I have seldom had. O that the church were more deeply impressed with a conviction of their responsibility upon this subject! September 24. Attended the funeral of Brother Freeman. Preached from Num. xxiii. 10. It was as solemnly impressive a scene as I ever witnessed. Thousands in tears. He was tenderly beloved by his peo- ple, and his labors have been greatly useful. May we all be profited by this admonitory dispensation. October 19. Preached three times yesterday. Endeavored, in two JOUENAI,. 101 sermons, to persuade my dear people to be in earnest in the pursuit of heaven. Evening, preached the annual sermon before the Fatherless and Widows' Society. Full house, but meagre collection. October 22. The Female Anti-Slavery Society met to-day, and were dispersed by a mob ! Mr. Garrison was seized, and, but for the inter- ference of the mayor, would have been roughly handled, if not mur- dered. All this for what? For being the friend of the crushed slave. Put this and the meeiing at Faneuil Hall (August 21) together ! This mob seems the fruit of that respectable gathering. O God, liast thou not favor in store for two millions and a half of thine oppressed crea- tures ? November 3. Overwhelmed with a sense of responsibility touching the souls committed to my charge. Many of the church give no evi- dence of piety. Very few are really living Christians. What shall I say of the congregation ? Hundreds senseless and immovable as the dead. For them I watch as one that must give account of my steward- ship. How shall I acquit myself of their blood ? How discharge my duty to them ? Canst thou not grant me thy Holy Spirit, to enable me to declare the whole counsel of God ? Beget in the church a spirit of prayer. May they awake, and live for God. November 21. Nineteen years has my dear father been in heaven, and / so much nearer the time when I shall meet him. December 13. God has come near to me in the death of my dear Brother Alonzo King, pastor of the Baptist Church in Westboro', Mass. We joined the church in Newport, within a few months of each other, in the year 1818 ; entered the ministry about the same time ; have always loved each other, and, though very dissimilar in temperaments, have always agreed in feeling, principle, and action. His leading moral characteristic was humility. He thought little of himself, and of him- self always spoke ill, though uniformly well, if at all, of others. He was a very holy man, and to me is " not lost, but gone before." December 16. Went to Westboro', and preached a sermon with a view to improve the divine dispensation in the removal of dear Brother King. It was his request that no sermon should be preached at his funeral, and that, if his family and people should desire, I should preach a dis- course to them for their good after liis burial. I endeavored to exhibit to the afflicted friends the consolation to be derived from the fact of the Saviour's resurrection as confirming the divinity of our religion, as sig- nifying the divine acceptance of Christ's mediation, as containing a pledge that the entire plan of redemption should be executed, and as rendering certain the resurrection of all believers. To-day has been Intensely cold, and while I was preaching the mercury out of doors stood twelve degrees below zero. My ride of thirty-two miles home 102 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. was bitterly cold. The day, I trust, has been profitable. As I looked upon the afflicted widow and children, my heart melted in view of God's goodness to me and mine. The journals of Mr. Stow abound in the most touching references to his mother. Her toils and sacrifices for him- self, his brother, and his sister, are often gratefully recorded. But what most impressed him, and left its savor longest on his heart, was the deep piety evinced in the careful training of her children in the way of personal purity and holiness. The first of the foUomng letters was written to his mother after her recovery from a severe illness, which it was feared would terminate her life : — Boston, March 12, 1834. My VERT DEAK MoTHER : I feel that we all have occasion to be grateful to God for his goodness in restoring you to health, and permit- ting you to continue still longer for the benefit of your children. We doubt not but you are prepared for a better world, and that for yourself it might be better to depart and be with Christ, but for the sake of those who need your society and counsel it is every way desirable that you should live many years. The Lord is good and wise, and blessed be his holy name forever and ever. Our prayer is that your affliction may be sanctified to your benefit, so that your holiness and comfort may be thereby promoted. At present we are enjoying a precious revival, and my labors are more numerous and severe than ever. Since October 1, I have bap- tized thirty-two, and many more are rejoicing in hope. God is merci- fully blessing my labors far beyond my highest anticipations. Many of the churches in this region are now blessed with encoura- ging revivals, and the prospect is that this will be a year of great in- crease to our Zion. O that the Lord's people would all awake and live not unto themselves, but for the glory of Him who died to redeem them 1 To his brother-in-law, W. L. Beal, whom the foUowing let- ter was expected to reach in Paris : — October 28, 1835. One week has passed since we gave you the parting hand, and while we are quietly housed at No. 11, you are doubtless tossing on the bounding billows. Our morning and evening prayer, as we bend around our domestic altar, is, that Heaven may give you a safe and a speedy passage, preserve you from all dangers, and soon return LETTER TO W. L. BEAL. 103 you to the friends who love you, and whom you love. We cherish a, strong confidence that it will be so. We have nothing new among us. All things move on quietly (since the riot on the day you left, in which Mr. Garrison was endangered, but not injured), and I trust we shall be saved from evils which are dis- turbing and disgracing other cities. Several of the celebrated " ten hour men" have been apprehended as the " incendiaries " who have occasioned the late fires. Some have confessed, and against others the proof is clear. I have just returned from Worcester, where yesterday I preached the installation sermon of Rev. Mr. Aldrich. To-morrow I go to per- form the same service at Lowell for Mr. Porter. "Then," says E., peremptorily, " you must stay at home." Really, I hope all hands will let me alone, and allow me to labor on quietly in my own vineyard. The Federal Street Church and Society have invited Mr. Ide. Should he accept, he will bear a part of these burdens. To the same : — November 28, 1835. We have " rumors of war " with France, and we sometimes feel apprehensive that President Jackson will, in his forthcoming mes- sage, apply the match to the train and create an explosion that will affect, not only your business, but the interests, temporal and eternal, of millions. You will do well not to plunge deeply into engagements for the future, until you know how this troublesome matter is to issue. Our treasury is to have a surplus of twenty-seven millions at the close of the year, and our politicians know not what to do with it, except to shoot it away at Louis Philippe and his refractory subjects. O, how pitiful is this war spirit! I loathe it from my inmost soul. So undigni- fied, so unbefitting immortal, accountable beings, so opposed to the mild and benignant spirit of Christianity. The con-espondence thus given shows the warmth of his domestic affections, and indicates that he was becoming more widely known, and that his services as an acceptable preacher were in constant requisition on public occasions. Returning once more to his journal, we give a few extracts which have reference to his ministerial life during the year 1836. 1836. January 16. Since the great prayer day (first Monday in the month),, the Lord has revived his work in many places. A brother just 104 MEMOIE OF DB. STOW. in has informed me of a gracious outpouring in Beverly. I rejoice, O Lord, tiiat Thou art working anywhere ; but may I not still plead for Baldwin Place ? Last evening our prayer meeting was full, and more spirited than usual. Had I not so often seen such appearances vanish, I should be a little encouraged. I hope still in thy promises, thou God of mercy. January 23. This evening received from this dear church a fresh token of tlieir kindness — a donation of two hundred dollars in money. On the first ult., I received from two young men of the society, as a New Year's remembrance, fifty dollars. I am oppressed by such kindness, and cannot perceive why I am thus distinguished. God has a purpose in it. that I may never cease to.be grateful to God or my friends ! I ought to labor with greater zeal and fresher courage. February 15. Having received an invitation from the Middle Street Church and Society in Portsmouth to return and again become tlieir pastor, have to-day sent them a negative reply. I truly love that dear people, and should be glad to render them any practicable service. During the last seven days we have held a series of evening prayer meetings with special reference to the low state of religion among us. A few individuals in the church seem partially awakened, but the mass are still apparently unconcerned whether sinners be lost or saved. April 5. A letter from Sister J. H. P. brings the tidings that my dear brother Peter is no more. He was our youngest, and around him our hearts clustered. Of a peculi.irly delicate constitution, he has been an object of much solicitude. Loving and lovable in his character, he en- deared himself to us all by a thousand ties. But now thou art in the society of the blessed. I cannot mourn for thee. Thou hast left a world of suffering, and found rest in heaven. I hope to meet thee, and rejoice with thee before the throne. May God support and comfort my dear mother. For more than twenty-two years she has watched over this son with tenderness and fidelity never surpassed. I know her heart bleeds at the separation. O Thou who didst console the widow of Nain speak peace to her soul, and bid her rejoice in thee ! What a favor to have had such a brother I to have him leave behind him not only an untarnished reputation, but the hope and prospect of a bright immortality beyond this vale, — " Where the loved and parted here below Meet ne'er to part again I " April 14. I have been reflecting on the causes, in myself, of the un- fruitfulness of my labors. Is my preaching defective in doctrine, in illustration, in style, in spirit? Does my life contradict my preaching? Are the susceptibilities of my mind such that it would be unsuitable for me to see the effect of LETTEB TO HIS CHUKCH. 105 my labors? Do I trust myself more tlian God? the means used more than the grace, which alone can make them effectual? Is my piety so defective that God cannot honor my efforts? God forbid that I should murmur. God forbid that I should think too liighly of self, or ray efforts. I am unworthy. If I must labor on without seeing the good I do, my desire is to glorify God. May 1. This morning baptized seven. House thronged. Rev. Basil Manly, of Charleston, S. C, occupied my pulpit. A good, sensi- ble discourse. May 24. Just returned from a most affecting scene — the funeral of Rev. Bela Jacobs, pastor of the East Cambridge church. On Sunday morning, as he drove to the church in his chaise, the ringing of the bell started the horse, and he ran furiously until the wheel struck a building, throwing him out with such violence as to shatter his head most shock- ingly. He lived but one hour after. His wife survives him. The event has thrown a deep gloom over the whole community. To-day we Iiave paid him our last sad respects. By request of the bereaved family and flock, I preached the discourse from Luke xxiii. 28 : " Weep not for me." The solemnity was overwhelming. July 15. Returned after an absence of forty days. Visited my dear mother at Evans's Mills, N. Y. Found her much better in health than I expected. Went to the grave of my beloved brother Peter. He sleeps in Jesus. Passed a few days at Saratoga Springs, Windsor, and Newport. Health very much invigorated. " I will sing of the mercies of the Lord." During this absence from home, he wrote to his church the following letter : — Evans's Mills, N. Y., June 15, 1836. Dear Bkethren and Sisters : After a fatiguing journey of five hundred and fifty miles, we arrived safely at this place, and were cor- dially welcomed by friends whom we tenderly love, and from whom we have long been separated. The meeting was of that joyous kind which reminded me of the final meeting of pious kindred at the right hand of God in the kingdom of heaven. The pleasure, however, was embittered by one consideration. One member of the beloved circle was absent, and the breach was a wide one. From the window where I now sit I can see the little hillock that rises over the sleeping dust of a dear brother, whom I had not seen for seven years, and whom I shall never again see until I behold him in glory before the throne of God. But though he is gone, other friends, dear friends, are left, and among them a mother, to whom, for counsels, prayers, and examples, I owe 106 JLEMOIE OF DE. STOW. more than to any other earthly being. Truly God is good, and no one of his creatures has such occasion as I have to be grateful for his pecu- liar kindness. So unworthy, so vile am I, that, whenever I reflect at all, I am amazed that God should show me any favor. While I have breath I will praise him, and when my voice shall be lost in death, praise shall still employ my emancipated and purified powers while eternity rolls. But, dear brethren and sisters, do not imagine that because I am in the society of endeared and affectionate kindred, I have forgotten the beloved flock " over whom the Holy Ghost hath made me overseer." No, no ; I love the church with an afiection too intense to be modified or diminished by any circumstances. ** For her my tears shall fall, For her my prayers ascend. To her my cares and toils be given. Tin toils and cares shall end." The ties that bind me to you are delicate and strong. Your interests are mine, your consolations and sorrows are mine, and my daily and hourly prayer is, that God will watch over you and keep you unto life eternal. Yesterday, while thinking of you and endeavoring to lift up my heart in prayer for your peace and prosperity, I had some sweet reflections upon the Saviour's language in the tenth chapter of John ': " My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, and I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hands ; " also upon the words of the apostle, " Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God." How precious are these assurances I God has opened to us the fountains of strong consolation. He will take care of his people. " His foundation stand- eth sure, having this seal — the Lord knoweth them that are his." Allow me here, beloved, to make some suggestions upon some points touching your spiritual welfare. 1. The importance of careful and prayerful study of the Scriptures. I know that in a former epistle I brought this matter before you, and also that the Lord's day before I left, I exhorted you " to search the Scriptures." But such is the importance of the subject that I cannot forbear again to present it, and entreat you to take diligent heed to the " sure word of prophecy," with which our merciful Father has favored us. Three reasons urge upon us this duty : — The Bible is the standard of truth. The Bible is the rule of our duty. The Bible is the source of spiritual nutriment. Let us not neglect this blessed book, but study it with care and with sincere desires to be instructed in all wisdom and righteousness. LETTEE TO BAIDWIN PLACE CHUECH. 107 2. Tlie importance of prayer ia the closet, in the family, in the church. Do any of the members neglect private devotions? Do any that are heads of families omit morning and evening worship around the domestic altar? If so, your pastor would affectionately inquire if it is rt'g'W to neglect so important a duty ? Do any forsake the assembling themselves together for purposes of social devotion? Dear brethren, do not neglect the Friday evening prayer meeting. Last Friday even- ing we remembered you with not a little feeling, and though crowded with others into the cabin of a canal-boat, where we had no place for retirement, yet we conversed upon your state, and raised our silent desires to the " God of all grace," that he would meet with you and bless you abundantly. Again I entreat you not to lose your interest in the prayer meeting. 3. The importance of strict discipline. A church cannot prosper that connives at sin in its members, and that charity which shrinks from plain, faithful dealing with offenders is false charity, and deeply injuri- ous. A straightforward course in discipline, in accordance with the rule laid down by the Saviour, is the only one that will insure his ap- probation. We have many delinquent members whose negligence re- quires attention. If the efforts required by the gospel to reclaim them are unsuccessful, it is decidedly wrong to retain them as members. May God help you to be faithful in this duty. 4. The importance of carefulness and tenderness in speaking of one another. I greatly fear that in this respect there is not sufficient cau- tion. We ought not, indeed, to cloak sin ; but when our brethren and sisters do wrong, our first duty is to go to them and privately reprove them in the spirit of meekness and love. The path of duty in such cases is prescribed by the Saviour himself, and unless it be carefully and con- scientiously followed, we shall all incur his displeasure. Brethren, will you not reflect upon this duty? Let parents be prudent in speaking of the faults of church members before their children, and let all be care- ful how they speak of their brethren and sisters before the ungodly. The reasons I need not assign, for they must be obvious to every mind. These few hints I send you, with the earnest prayer that God will render them useful in promoting your sanctification. My desire is for your perfect holiness. In conclusion, let me solicit your prayers not only that we may be kept from dangers in our journeyings, but also that we may be pre- served from sin, and rendered useful wherever we may go. Join with me, brethren and sisters, in seeking a blessing on the unconverted in the congregation. My soul groans over them with earnest longings for their conversion to God. Your affectionate pastor, Bakon Stow. 108 MEMOIE OF DE. STOW. Writing to Deacon Samuel Beal, from Saratoga Springs, he says, — I am anxious to return, and shall not prolong my stay a moment beyond the necessities of the case. A wandering life I should never love. The life of a pastor is my desire and my highest pleasure. Where I have been the churches are exceedingly languid. The whole country has been overrun with the "new divinity," and the moral soil is burnt out so that no green thing will grow. In one place where there was last winter a protracted meeting of twenty days, and consequently a great excitement, called a revival, and where I expected to see some life, I found all dead and cold. I attended there a prayer meeting of a pleasant evening, and only seven were present I I longed to be trans- ported to Baldwin Place. Indeed, I am often with you in spirit, and I long to be present bodily. The record of his journal reveals to us with what earnest- ness he resumed his labors : — September 9. On the 6th ult. went to Providence, and delivered the annual address before the Philermenian Society of Brown University. Did not satisfy myself, and very much doubt if I did others. My busi- ness is not to deliver orations, but to preach the gospel. November 5, Saturday evening. The Sabbath is again at hand, and I have the prospect of pleading with sinners to be reconciled to God. Last Sabbath evening, as usual, I felt I could say no more. I had pleaded with Christians to labor for the conversion of sinners, and with sinners to forsake the service of sin, and become the disciples of Jesus. But now I feel Christ has given me more messages, and, by his grace, I will declare them. Will they do good.' My preaching evidently har- dens hundreds, and increases their condemnation. " Who is suflcient for these things ? " Paul was not. Surely I am not. O God, I need thy grace to strengthen me. I cannot bear this mighty responsibility without thine aid. It is a comfort to lean on thee. In the pavilion of thy faithfulness I hide myself. O, put me not to shame. November 10. Commenced last evening a course of lectures on Old Testament facts, beginning with the temptation in Eden. Lecture-room crowded. My heart's desire is, that good may be done. November 12, Sabbath. Conversed half an hour this evening respect- ing entire consecration to God. What is it to be thus consecrated ? Wholly, WHOLLY ! My own deficiencies appeared before me in a new light. How Uttle do I live for God ! How much for other ends than his glory! If I were now called to exchange earth for heaven, I am sure I should not be prepared to engage in the one great employment of that JOUENAL. 109 holy world with all my heart. A great work remains to be accomplished before I can say, " I am ready to be offered." November 15. Visited a lady wlio is near the end of her course. Her soul is in a most heavenly frame. Her chamber seems a nook of heaven — its very atmosphere celestial. Would I could take my con- gregation into such a scene, and show them the believer's joy in pros- pect of death. November 18. Visited the same lady again, and had another hour's sweet communion with her almost beatified spirit. Her husband has here found sweet peace in believing. The interview was truly refresh- ing. She says she can now die with increased felicity. Her companion she hopes to meet in glory. November 19. Had some intense longings that the sermons I am pre- paring for to-morrow may be blessed. I have labored carefully to speak on death in sin and Christ our life. Wilt thou, O Lord, render them effectual? Help thou my unbelief. November 21. Twenty years this day my dear father entered into rest. Blessed thought I rest — an eternity of rest — eternally with God. Who would not labor and suffer liere a few years patiently, with the prospect before him of eternal joy I Feel exhilaration to-day. How- ever, it is not spiritual — it is owing to tlie society of endeared friends. The pleasures of religious company are great, exquisite. They will be perfect in lieaven. November 28. Was told that a lady inquired of one of my family if I am as much devoted at home as in the pulpit. Important question. Does my life correspond with my preaching? Am I a consistent minis- ter? a consistent Christian? Lord, forgive my failures. December 24. Had some enjoyment to-day in preparing a sermon to be addressed to the children of pious parents. Peelings of peculiar tenderness have been awakened by a recollection of the instructions, the examples, and prayers of my own dear parents. I could not forbear bowing more than once before God in gratitude for such parents. How much, under God, do I owe them for their fidelity to me when young I Under other circumstances what should I have been ? My heart is full. Bless, O God, ray dear mother. Let her days be many, and her joys as numerous as her days. May she and my beloved father meet all their children in the mansions of eternal rest. Whether I shall be able to preach this sermon with affection and faith is yet to be seen. I pray for grace to honor God, and do good. A few individuals have recently professed to be the subjects of grace, who refer to my sermons as having awakened or comforted them. The fact is encouraging; but I am ashamed of myscif when I think how un- grateful I am for such favors. I pray God to give me souls for my 110 MEMOIR OF DE. STOW. hire, and when he gives them I fail to realize his goodness, or acknowl- edge the benefit. Wretch that I am, I overlook answers to prayer be- cause the persons converted are not those for whose salvation I have special desires. They are converted one by one, and not scores, as my pride desires. How humbled ought I to he before God I When I look at the evils of my own heart, the imperfection of my motives, my prayers, my preaching, my whole efforts, I cannot wonder God with- holds large blessings. Yet, after all deductions for selfishness, I trust I have some sincere, disinterested desires for the salvation of my dear people. J have had some enlargement to-day, and this evening, in prayer for them. I long to see the arm of the Lord made bare, and stretched out for the destruction of Satan's dominion. I long to see this church roused and quickened. I long for a descent of the Holy Spirit, producing a spirit of repentance, of confession, of forgiveness, brotlierly love, prayer, faith, zealous individual efibrt. When shall this thing be ? IDEALS OF THE MINISTET AND THE CHUECH. Ill CHAPTEE IX. The EAKNEsr Workee. — Longings fok a Revival. — A useful Sermon. — The great Eevival of 1838. — Gathering in the Harvest. — Missionary Discourse. — Death of Professor Knowles. 1837. The year upon which we now enter presents but little va- riety in the outward life of Mr. Stow. We shall find that there is no diminution of interest on his part in the spiritual welfare of his church and congregation. Habit does not blunt his sensibilities, neither does it lead him to go through with his duties in a sort of perfunctory way, satisfied if he per- forms them to the general satisfaction of his congregation. Every year his ideal of the true minister of Christ becomes more lofty, and he groans in spirit because he falls so far short of reaching it. And, too, his conception of what a church of Christ ought to be, and, as he thinks, might be if it is properly trained, becomes more intelligent and spiritual ; and, in his view, there is on earth no such society as a church of the Lord Jesus, formed after the model in his mind, such as he believes the New Testament, under the inspu-ation of the Holy Spirit, holds up to our view. With these high ideals of ministerial and church life, we do not wonder if sometimes his heart is pained as he reaches the conclusions to which he is brought by self-examination, and his observation of the church as he finds it in his actual contact with it. If his own soul burns with the fire of earnest longings for the reviving of God's work, he is grieved if the flame does not spread until the hearts of his church are all aglow with a zeal like 112 MEMOIK OP DE. STOW. liis own. If anxiety for the conversion of men follows him to a sleepless couch, and he cannot shake off the burden, he wonders that they, for whom he bears these heavy burdens, are apparently so careless about their own condition and pros- pects. Men of cooler temperament and less ardent suscepti- bilities may be disposed to chide him, that he took on his heart the load which he carried, and to say, that with a firmer trust in the providence and spirit of God, he ought to have done his duty, and left results with a higher power. But he was so constituted that this was an impossibility. He never was satisfied that he had done all the duty which devolved on him, and which was in some sense tlie established condi- tion of success in his work. " When Zion travails, she shall bring forth sons." Anxious as he was to see those "new births," without which our Lord declared there could be no entrance into the kingdom of God, he saw, oftentimes, very little in the spiritual condition of the church that warranted him to expect any of these " new births." That his ministry was a very successful one, no one can deny. Can it be doubt- ed that one secret of this success is to be found in his quick sympathies, his tender solicitude, and his unwearied endeavors to raise the tone of religious feeling, both in his own heart and in the hearts of the members of his church ? January 6, 1837. Why do I desire the conversion of sinners ? There are three motives, either of which may influence me : — 1. Love of approbation. A successful minister gains credit, at least among religious people. He has the name of being " very pious," " very faithful," &c. , and this becomes as much a snare to him as if he had the name of being " very learned" or " very eloquent." If his labors are blessed, he is in reputation with his people, and throughout the religious community generally, and his aid is sought abroad on important occa- sions. It is one mode of becoming popular. 2. Benevolence — a desire for the happiness of others. Religion makes men happy. A benevolent heart, even though not itself reli- gious, may desire others to possess piety as the means of happiness. 3. Love to God — a desire that God maybe glorified in the repent- ance and return of his rebellious creatures to himself. Now, which of these motives is mine? / am snre I desire the con- version of sinners. Why do I? JOURNAL. 113 I see a mixture of motives. After the most careful examination, I can say that I desire the glory of Gotl ; I desire to see his Son hon- ored with a rich triumph. Whatever becomes of me, let Ood be glori- fied. I also desire the liappiness of my fellow-men, and I fear the other motive too often intrudes itself. I fear I am selfish in many of my efforts. Yet I think I rejoice in the conversion of sinners, even though my own instrumentality be not acknowledged, and the converts join other churches. I have a vile heart, but my prayer is, that it may be sanctified. " Father, glorify thyself." February 2. Finished reading the Life of Samuel Kilpin, a Baptist minister, late of Exeter, England. He was a very holy and useful man. A man of much prayer and much action, he brought much to pass. How little am I like him in faith, self-denial, and industry 1 How few there are that exliibit such piety ! I look about upon the ministers of'my acquaintance, and see but few who can be called spiritually- minded. I hear very little spiritual praying or preaching, and still less spiritual conversation. Truly there is something wrong in ministers, and we must ourselves repent and turn to Ood before we can expect to see refreshing works of grace among our people. " He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed," &c. We do not weep as we sow the seed. Our hearts are not enough in the work. I fear we are too much seeking our own things rather than those of Jesus Christ. I am satisfied the ministry is not what it should be. I am far from being " a good minister of Jesus Christ." I ought to be immensely better. February 19, Sabbath day. Preached this morning on an exchange with Mr. Taylor at the Bethel, North Square. Made wretched work ; my soul was dry and senseless. In the afternoon God smote the rock, and the waters gushed forth. My subject, founded on Proverbs vi. 6, was, "The importance of providing in season for future necessities." I could hardly realize I was the same being who had labored so hard to preach in the morning. My desire was intense for the conversion of my dear people. I fear I do not cultivate enough tenderness as essen- tial to an effective manner. How altered are my views of preaching ! I once thought the severe, denunciatory, dare-devil style and manner were those which would do the most good. I had a preference for the awful, and dwelt thereon too much. Possibly I may still have too much of it in my sermons, but my feelings and views are certainly changed. Now I see a man may be faithful, and yet affectionate. Everything should be baptized in love. O that I might conform my preaching to this truth ! February 24. Heard of a member of the church — one baptized by myself — who had left the meeting because of my " close preaching." Now and then I hear that my preaching is too close ; but I can learn 8 114 JtEMOIE OP DE. STOW. from no one definitively what is meant by too close. Do I not preach the truth? Do I exaggerate the truth? Is the fault in my manner? I do not understand the complaint. O God, thou knowest that my con- science smites me every day for unfaithfulness. I do not perform either my duty to the church or the world, and I suffer constantly under a sense of my deficiencies. Yet I fear there may be a want of tenderness in my manner. that I may never forget I am a sinner, dependent on the grace I recommend to others ! May I never forget love is the grand solvent of hard hearts. May I ever keep before me the touching scene on Olivet — Jesus weeping over lost souls. Yes, my dear people, 1 love you. March 15. Visited a worthy brother who is near his end. Found him in a delightful frame of mind — dwelling mostly upon that glorious idea, Christ is all. His charge to me as we parted was, " Preach Christ, preach him more and more." O that I may remember and profit by it! Unless I preach Christ more, I shall fail in ray duty. April 5. Am told I have too much perplexing anxiety about matters which should be left to God. I am told it is my business to preach to the people, and visit them, leaving the results to my heavenly Master. Is it nothing to me whether my labors are a savor of life or of death ? Shall I cultivate a spirit of indifference ? My heart bleeds to see pro- fessors of religion so intensely pursuing the world, forgetful of their own vows and the condition of men about them. Returned from a trip south. Left on the 20th ult. Attended the Convention in Philadelphia for the formation of a Bible Society ; was one of the secretaries of the Convention, and witnessed the organiza- tion of the American and Foreign Bible Society. Visited College Hill (Washington) ; recalled days and scenes gone by. God has kindly re- turned me with health greatly invigorated. June 17, Saturday evening. Just returned from a scene of afflic- tion and mourning. Mrs. M., one of my congregation, wife of Mr. N. M., about an hour since breathed her last. During her illness of sev- eral months I have visited her often — for the past four weeks nearly every day. I believe her to be a Christian, though her excessive timid- ity and distrust of herself made her diffident in the expression of her views and feelings. She died very tranquilly, assuring me that she rested wholly on Jesus for acceptance, and was ready to depart. The scene was solemn and impressive. June 19. Fifteen years ago to-day I first set foot in Boston. Little did I then apprehend the scenes that were before me! Through what changes have I since passed ! June 24 — Evening. Wrote a letter to a member of my congrega- tion whose wife has recently died, endeavoring to direct his attention to JOURNAL. 115 Christ as a friend. His wife was an amiable Christian. Afterwards I reviewed my own life, and found abundant occasion for humility and repentance. Reading a few pages in the Life of Dr. Payson, I was struck and affected by a remark of his, that " he was never happy until he relinquished all de-sire to be distinguished." My ambition to be great has cost me many hours of sorrow, has prompted me to do and say many things of which I have afterwards repented, and has made me abhorrent to myself. O that, like my Master, I " teas meek and lowly in heart," making myself of "no reputation!" I wonder God does not hate me ; I am so hateful, it amazes me how he can love me. But for the depth of the riches " both of his goodness and loving- kindness to usward," I should despair. June 25. Preached this morning for the First Church. Their pastor, Kev. William Hague, lias, the past week, left them to become the pastor of the First Church in Providence. I feel his removal to be a personal affliction, for I had become much attached to liim, and hoped long to labor by his side. This afternoon preached on Conversion ; warned and entreated my dear people as faithfully and affectionately as I knew how. I know not how I could say more in so short a time, or say it more kindly. July 19. A review of ray life, especially since I commenced preach- ing the gospel, has filled me with mortification. How little have I cultivated personal holiness 1 How much have I been actuated by self- ish motives ! How imperfect my services as an ambassador of the heavenly King 1 I wonder often I am still allowed to preach the gospel, still kept alive. I should despair at once were it not for the perfect righteousness of Christ. He is all in all. O that I may " win him," and " he found in him." *' JesuB, I throw mine arras around, And hang upon thy breast; Without one gracious sraile from thee iHy spirit cannot rest.'' July 22. Some pleasant reflections while meditating on the otSces of the Comforter, and was almost disposed to throw aside my prepara- tion for the morrow morning, and give these views to my people. There is a way in which he comforts ; there are reasons why he com- forts. Lord, fix thou this subject in my mind. Enable me to under- stand, feel, and illustrate it. October 5. " Trials make the promise sweet, Trials give new life to prayer." Within a few days I have been subjected to unwonted trials. I doubtless need them. The correction is administered by a Father. O 116 UEMOIB OF DR. STOW. that I may have grace to endure them, and not sin against God, and to improve them so that tliey may subserve my sanctification ! Lord, purify me by whatever means thou choosest. Unless I am holy I cannot see thee. October 12. A ray has pierced the darkness. A young lady called to-day, desiring instruction, and expressing some hope, recently ob- tained, in the pardoning mercy of God. Her perceptions are dim, and her impressions rather indefinite. Her case is encouraging. This afternoon I visited one of the loveliest young men of my flock (S. O. S.), who Is ill of typhus fever, and, I fear, must soon die. He has no hope in Christ. He has been a very attentive hearer, and a member of tlie Bible Class. More than once have I conversed with him respecting the interests of his soul. He has known his duty. He has had time, yea, a favored season ; but now his reason is gone, and his probation seems ended. God gave me a spirit of prayer for him, and I had some glimpses of hope that prayer might be answered in his restora- tion to life. How ought I to live, preach, and pray ! My people are hurrying off" to the bar of God unprepared to meet him. May not the guilt of unfaithfulness attach to me. October 13. This morning at five o'clock my young friend men- tioned above ceased to breathe. The family, and a large circle of friends to whom lie was peculiarly dear, are deeply afflicted. May 1 feel the force of this admonition not only to be ready, but to use all means to get others ready also. October 21. Prepared a sketch of a discourse from Matt, xxiii. 27 — " O Jerusalem, Jerusalem." Have felt somewhat as I imagined Jesus felt when from his full soul he uttered that moving lamentation. My heart yearns over my people, and longs for their salvation. How precious are their souls ! How have they been warned and entreated to fly to Christ for protection ! and how have they refused ! Lord, show thou me what more I can do to persuade them to come to thee. How different should I preach as to doctrine and manner? Wouldst thou have me do more by private effort with individuals ? Is there no way that these souls can be addressed, so God will render the truth effectual to their conversion? I can tell my brethren what