'5!#ii«*^ .-.^.-.^^1^ ., f) Case, pivisM- _ '*>'"'''/■' Sec/. .. Book, LIBHARY ft AT PRII^CETON, ]V. J. IMINATION OF S A M I J E L A a N E W , ut Villi. A DKI. PHI A. PA. Letfer A'o. ^^t^t^-.-'C/.'^- Sr::. 1^// ■^'' -^^ ^ Omnia exploraie: J; ! ^ GEORGE r. MOREHOUSE, ^ J? Bomimtenete, iThess. v. 2t. > i S sec ISAAC STOCKTON KEITH 'B.ajj -///'/ x^ /, /,/ r /y^<^/ty/^^ t/ Uo'^ ^y7^>f^^.^Z (»■ SERMONS, ADDRESSES, AND LETTERS. SELECTED FROM THE WRITINGS OF THE LATE REV. ISAAC STOCKTON KEITH, DD. SNl OF THE MINISTERS OF THE INDEPENDENT OR CONGREGA- TIONAL CHURCH IN CHARLESTON, S. C. TO WHICH ARE PREPIXBDj AN ENORAVED PORTRAIT 01 THE AtTHOR, A BRIEF SKETCH OF HIS LIFE, AND THE SERMON PREACHED ON THE OCCASION OF HIS DEATH, BY REV. ANDREW FLINN, D.D, THi MEMORY OT THE JUST 19 BLESSED. SOLOMON. CHARLESTOWN : PRINTED 3BX S. ETHEBXDGE, JR, 1816. CONTENTS PAGE. Preface - . - 5 Biographical Sketch - - - 9 Funeral sermon on the death of Dr- Keith, by Dr. Flinn - 23 Inauguration sermon - - - 49 Sermon on the death of General Washington - -73 Charge at the ordination of Rev. James Adams - - 103 Address delivered at the Orphan House in Charleston - 129 Sermon at the opening of the circular church, in Meeting-street, Charleston - - - 159 Address delivered at a weekly meeting - - 195 LETTERS To Miss N. R. - - - 204 Mr. - - - 211 Rev. Dr. S. - - , - 219 Rev. Dr. G, - - - 221 Mrs. K. . - - - 227 Thomfis Bennett, Esq. on John's Island - 280 Rev, Dr. Sproat - - - 232 Miss O. Sproat - - - 235 Rev. Dr. G. . - - 240 Mr. and Mrs. L. - - - 250 Rev, Dr. G. - - .- 257 Dr. F. ... 263 - - - 265 His sister - - - 269 Dr. F. ... o^e The same - - - 280 Kev. Mr. P. - - - 284 ^y CONTENTS. "■ To Dr. F. ... 288 Rev. Mr. P. - . . 293 Dr.F. . . - 296 The same - - , 300 The same - . . 303 Mrs.S. W. - - - 310 . . - 319 Mrs. W. - - - 325 The Committee of the church in the first Society ia Farmington 338 Mrs. W. - _ . 343 Mrs. B. of B ~t - - 350 Dr.F. . . - 359 The same - . - 363 Mrs. W,. ... 368 The same - - . 37g The same, on the death of her son - - S85 Dr.F. The same Mr.J. S. - - - 395 Rev. Dr. M. - - . 403 Mrs, H. Rev. Dr. M. Rev. Mr. P. - . . Rev. Dr. S. - . . 427 The President of the Congregational Society - 435 Dr.E.S. - . ^440 389 392 412 421 424 ?' PEmGBTdlT' '^.. PREFACE. " 1 HIS volume is designed as a memorial of departed worth. It appears under disadvantages common to all posthumous works. The Sermons and Addresses, with one or two exceptions, were prepared bj the Au- thor for the press. The rest of the volume, consisting of selections from his numerous letters to his friends, are the effusions of a pious and aflfectionate heart, and penned either for their comfort, instruction, or gratifi- cation, without the remotest idea of their ever appear- ing before the public. The Editors have found the task of selection, in these circumstances, both delicate and difficult ; delicate, lest we should encroach on the sanctuary of private friendship ; difficult, on account of the great mass of letters before us, from which the selection has been made. Our difficulty has arisen, not from a deficiency, but from a redundancy, of val lia- ble materials. We have used our best judgment in making this compilation, from the writings of one of the best of men, and of ministers, and submit it to the can- dour of its readers, and the blessing of God. VI PREFACE. Though this volume is published more especially to gratify the numerous friends of Dr. Keith, and to them we are sure it will be very precious ; yet, we doubt not, it will prove a useful and valued work io many others also, and remain a monument of the affectionate piety, christian charity and meekness, respectable tal- ents and acquirements, and ministerial fidelity of its Author, to the latest generation. We close our Preface with the following letter, ad- dressed to the widow of Dr. Keith, shortly after his decease, as a valuable testimonial of the high estima- tion in which he was held by the most respectable peo- ple of his charge ; and as furnishing also a strong reason for the publication of this volume. CHARLESTON, MARCH 31, 1814. MRS. KEITH. • RESPECTED MADAM, W HiLE we partake in the ex- tensive grief, which the much lamented death of youv excel- lent husband has excited, one source of alleviating our dis- tress has been opened to our minds. With your permission, he wfio when living faithfully fed us with the bread of life, may, though dead, yet continue to instruct and comfort, not only us and our children, but multitudes who never had the happiness, which we enjoyed, of hearing from his lips the gra- cious messages of divine truth. To withhold these precious remains of our much loved Pastor from the public eye, would, FREFACE, va in our opinion, be an injury to the community, as it would de- prive them of a source of improvement and consolation, which, under existing circumstances, promises to be of extensive utility. We therefore most earnestly request you to deliver over to some judicious friend, the manuscripts of your be- loved husband, that a selection may be made from them for publication. In so doing you will not only oblige us, but many who have never heard his voice ; and at the same time, carry on the good work to which his whole life was devoted. We are, With great esteem and affection, Your friends, ELIZABBTH B. HATTEB- MARY L. THOMAS. SVSANNA SMILIE> J081AH SMITH. WILLIAM ROACH. KINSEY BURDEN. MATHANIEL RUSSELL. THOMAS JONES. ADAM GILCHRIST. WILLIAM PAYNB. W. S. SMITH. T. FORD. BATID RAMSAT. %T-H20LOai0iLL# BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH REV. DR. KEITH. Isaac Stockton Kkith, the subject of this memoir, son of William arrl Mapgaret Kkith, was born in Newtown, Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Janu- ary 201b, 1755. His parents were members of the Presbyterian church, in the place of his nativity, and were held in high estimation, in the circle of their ac- quaintance, for their piety and \irtue. They educated their children, (two sons and two daughters, so far as we can ascertain from the documents before us) with exemplary fidelity, taking unwearied pains to pour re- ligious and other useful instruction into their youthful minds, and to bring them up in the nurture and admo- nition of the Lord. In the subject of this memoir, at a very early age, they discerned a \ivacity of imagina- tion, a quickness of discernment, and a diirposiiion and aptness to learn, which led them to determine, in hum- ble dependence on the divine blessing, to give him the advantages of a public education, with a view to quali- fy him to act in a larsje sphere of usefulness. Accord- ingly, at the age of about fourteen, he was sent to Prince- ton, in New Jersey, where he commenced and fiiiished his classical education, under that very learned and ex- cellent man. Rev. Ur. John WiTHfiRSPOON, as Pres» 10 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. ident of Nassau Hall, and the Proprietor and Director of the Grammar School, annexed to the College, and then taught by Mr. Nathaniel Erwin, late minister of Neshaminy. Such was the diligence and success with which he pursued his preparatory studies, that at every examination he was honored wilh a preraium. The period he spent at the Grammar vSchool, previous to his admission into the College, was much shorter than usu- al. His whole course of classical education was com- pleted in six years, at the early age of twenty. But the event, which abo\ e all others distinguished the pe- riod of his residence at the Grammar School, and which laid the fonndalion for his future usefulness in the church of Christ, was his conversion. Here, as appears from a MS. account of the event now before the writer, through the influence of the Holy Spirit, the eyes of his tnind were opened ; he perceived, felt and la- mented the exceeding sinfulness of his own heart and life ; and renouncing all dependence on any thing he could do to effect his own salvation, was led to rely wholly on the merits and mediation of a crucified Sa- viour. In his own time, the Lord was pleased to diffuse the light of his reconciled countenance into his anxious and humbled soul. On hearing the joyful and welcome intelligence of this event, his parents exclaimed, *< Now hath the Lord answered our prayers in his tender mer- cies toward that son, whom we had specially dedicated to his service." During his whole collegiate course, he continued a warm hearted, active, exemplary christ- ian. Soon afler he had completed his classical education, 31 in the autumn of 177 by he was invited to take charge of a Latin school at Elizabethtown, in New Jersey, which BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 11 he taught with Ihe approbation, both of his pupils, and of the Trustees. But this employment fell short of his great ob ect. He accordingly resigned the school, and placed himself under the care of the Rev. Robert Smith, of Lancaster County, in conformity to whose directions, residing at his father's house, he pursued and finished his course of theological studies, prepara- tory to his entrance on the work of the ministry. In the year 1778, he put hitnself under the care of the Presbytery of Philadelphia ; and in the autumn of the same year, received from that body a license to preach the gospel. The following winter he spent in a preaching tour, from which he returned to his father's house in April, suffering under a sore and most pain- ful pleuretic complaint, which affected his liver, and imminently threatened his life. After a long and dis- tressing sickness, he was relieved, though not restored to firm health, in an extraordinary manner. The mat- ter which had collected internally, and caused his pain, discharged itself, in consequence of the applica- tion of a blister, near his shoulder blade, and his recov- ery immediately followed. In March, 1780, having previously preached at Al- exandria, in Virginia, he received from the Presbyte- rian church and society in that place, left vacant by the removal of the Rev. William Thom, an affection- ate and unanimous call, (to which " the inhabitants of every denomination echoed universal consent,") to set- tle among them, as their pastor, ** promising obedience to his doctrine and discipline, so far as they should be agreeable to the word of God." The call from this church he accepted, and was ordained by the Presby- tery of Philadelphia, with a view to his taking the pas- 13 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCU. toral charge of it. On the 30th of May, 1780, he re- ceived his dismission from the Presbvterj of Philadel- phia to that of Donnegall, who had the care of the church over which he had been ordained. He had pre- viously received a call from a church in Alltntown, New Jersey, to which he sent a negative but affec- tionate answer. In the autumn of 1784, he was attacked by a fever, which weakened si ill more his already enfeebled constitu- tion. The following reflections, after his recovery from this sickness, are worthy to be preser^ ed. They are con- tained in a letter of his to his brother and sister, daled Alexandria, September 7, 1785, *' I am not without hope, that these afliictive dispensations, are the correc- tions of a Father's hand, mercifully designed to promote my spiritual improvement ; and in connexion with that, my truest and highest happiness, I sensibly feel the need in which I stand of frequent chastisement, to disen- gage my atTections from an inordinate attachment to the "World; to impress a livelier conviction of the evil of sin ; to excite to greater fidelity, in the discharge of du- ty, and to awaken more ardent desires, and diligent preparations for the happiness of a better life. Should it be productive of these happy fruits, and these 1 hope, through the attending blessing, and sanctifying spirit of God, will not be altogether wanting. I shall then have reason to reckon my affliction among the number of my choicest mercies, and to acknowledge with joy and thankfulness, " That it is good for me that I have been afflicted." This is the language of a truly christian faith and piety ; but the spirit from which it flows, is as diflicult to be acquired and maintained, as it is desir- able to be possessed. Happy truly are they, and they BtOGKAPHICAli SKETCH. 18 alone, whose soiiU have been formed by the grace of God for ihe principles of our hoiy religion, to rejoice in ihti prosperity of this life, as though they rejoiced not, and to \\eep under the sonows of it, as though liiey wept not ; considering the time as short, and the fashion of this world as passing swiftly away. Soon, very soon, my dear brother and sister, will it pass away from ns, or we from it. Lei us then seriously and impartially in- quire, whether we are properly prepared to take our final leave of it ; whether we have those satisfying evi- dences of a christian faith, and repentance, and love, and obedience, and a conscience so v oid of offence both towards God and man, that we can welcome the pros- pect of eternity, in the animating persuasion or hope, that the joys prepared for the good and faithful servant yi Ihe kingdom of our Ijord, shdl be our everlasting portion. Ijet these, therefore, be constantly made the chief objects of our attention and regard, and let us not forget to help each other by our mutual prayers, that we may find mercy, and obtain grace, to be faith- ful in the things, which so deeply concern the safety and happiness of our immortal souls." The feelings here expressed, were not left to expire without a corresponding effort to render some accepta- ble service to the Lord, by doing good to his fellow men. Accordingly, in Nov. 1785, he prepared the following plan of a Society, which, from the wisdom and liberality it displays, does great credit to his under- standing and heart. " Outlines of a plan for forming a religious society in the town of Alexandria. *T is conceived that a society, founded on catholic principles, so as to unite christians of different persua- 14 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. sions or professions, for the purposes of social prayer, and other religious exercises, may contribute greatly through Ihe divine blessing, to the spiritual improve- ment of their own souls ; and serve also to diffuse the spirit and the blessings of the gospel among others, by whom they have not yet been experienced. The cir- cumstances of this place, where the people of God are few in number, and in some measure, divided under different names and forms, while the whole current of general example, is opposed to a serious profession, and conscientious practice of irue religion ; forcibly call upon all who are sincerely resolved to live godly in Christ Jesus, and are duly concerned for the honor of the Master whom they serve : to overlook the little differences subsisting between them, and lo combine their best exertions, both to secure their own inlegrifj- and stedfastness, in the service of tlieir God and Re- deemer, and to engage others to become followers of them, as they are of Christ. In order to these ends, no means appear more promising in themselves, or more likely to be approved and seconded by the great Head of the church, than such institutions as this ; wherein those who profess faith in the same Saviour, who ac- knowledge subjection to the laws of the same gospel, and entertain the hope of sharing in the same inheritance of the saints in light ; suspending their zeal for those less essential opinions and modes of practice, in which they vary from each other ; associate together in that spi- il of christian charity, which is the bond of perfec- tion, and cordially unite in fervent prayers and suppli- cations for each other, and for all men, in mutual ex- hortations, to provoke unto love and to good works, and in the use of all other prudent and alFectionate en- :6lOGRAFHIGAI. SKETCH. 15 deavours to encourage each others' hearts, and strength- en each others' hands in the cooimon and great christ* ian cause. The hope (hat God will own and bless, to the important purposes in view, a design which so pro- fessedly and directly aims at the advancement of his glo- ry, in the promotion of the interests of religion, is abun- dantly authorized, not only by the obvious reasonable- ness of the thing, and its manifest conformity to the Divine will ; but by the express declarations of his written word, which, among other instances, furnishes us with an illustrious example of the success of such a measure, among his ancient people the Jews, when it informs us, that ''They who feared the Lord, spake of- ten one to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard it," and declared, that they should be " his, in the day when he made up his jewels ;" and in addition to this, affords us a most special and gracious promise, for the encouragement of christians in all succeeding ages, when our Saviour assures his disciples, that if even, *' any two of them shall agree on earth, touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them by his Father, who is in heaven ;" for said he, " where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am 1 in the midst of them." Influenced therefore by these considerations, and trust- ing that our views and intentions are pure and upright, with earnest desires, and animating hopes, that God may by his counsel direct, and by his blessing prosper, our pious undertaking, we whose names are hereunto sub- scribed, do agree, L That a Society shall be formed for the purposes above expressed, to consist of persons professing god- liness, and maintaining a conversation becoming the 16 BIOGH-VPHICAL SKETCH. gospel of Christ, wilhout any regard being bad to the denominations to which they belong, or the names by which they are distinguished. 2. That the exercises performed in the Society, shall be sacred singing, prayer, and exhortation, or reading some portion of the word of God, or of other books of practical religion, generally approved, 3. That when a minister or preacher of good stand- ins:, of any denomination, shall be present, he shall be invited, or have liberty, to address the Society on any- subject of religion, only avoiding, as much as possible, all topics of controversy, 4. That the first meetinir nf the Society, shall be on Wednesday e^ening, the 16tb of the present month, and that its future meetine;s shall be continued regular- ly, on the same eveninsr* every fortnight, or at such other times as the Society may hereafter find to be most convenient and advisable ; and that all its meet- ings shall be attended by the members with as much punctuality, as their circumstances will possibly per- mit. 5. That reffular members choosing to withdraw from their connexion with the Society, shall have liberty to do it, without beins: considered as incurrins: blanje or reproach on that account ; but that members whose immoral conduct, or irregular behaviour, may be inju- rious to the credit or interest of the Society, shall be excluded. 6. That persons not in connexion with the Society, but desirous of attending its meetings, and behaving seriously and (\ecent\y, shall be allowed to frequent them, when they think proper." BIOGRAPHICAL ^KETCH, 17 We give the plan of this Society at large, in this Memoir, because, so far as we know, it was the first of the kind proposed in our country ; and because if is an exhibition of sound sense and judgment, is a good model for imitation, and happily express the pious and bene\olent feelings of its author, at this eaily peri- od of his ministry. We know not whether this plan ever went info operation. Until the fall of 1788, Mr. Keith continued the affec- tionate and faithful pastor of the church in Alexandria; when, having received and accepted a call to settle as colleague pastor wilh the Rev. William Hollings- HEAD, over the Independent or Congregational church in Charleston, S. Carolina, he removed to that city, and was inaugurated at the close of November, in the year above mentionet'.* With what acceptance he fulfilled his eight years ministry to the Congregation in Alexandria, we learn by the following extract fioin their rem*)nstraiiCf to the Presbytery, against his dismission, dated Sr-pt. 10, 178a. They say, " In the suumier of Ifi 0, the Rev. Mr. Keith became pastor of this church, by the accep- tance of our call ; and e\er since that period has stood high in the estimation of all denominations, and particu- larly so with his own, whose exertions for his accommo- dation are perhaps utjequalled, and sufficiently evidence their regard and attachment. There have subsisted no feuds nor animosities to disturb the peace of our church, to render his residence here uncotnfortable to himself, or bis labours unprofitable to the people." To this ■we subjoin the certificate of his ** disniission from the * See his Inaugural Sermon, p. 49j of this Work. 3 18 BIOGKAPHICAIi SKETCH. Presbytery to which he belonged, as a further testimo- nial of the high estimation in which he was held. "in presbytery, BALTIMORE, SEPT. 16, 1788. A CALL was handed to the Rev. Isaac S. Keith, from Ihe Independent or Congregational Church in Charles- ton, S. Carolina, inviting hira to take the pastoral charge thereof, in conjunction with the Rev. William Hollings- head, of which, after some pause, with due solemnity, he signified his acceptance. The Presbytery, therefore, do hereby declare the pastoral relation between the Rev. haac S. Keith, and the Presbyterian church in Alexandria dissolved, dis- miss him from their body, to undertake the charge of the church in Charleston aforesaid, in conjunction with the Rev. William Hollingshead, recommendinghim very affectionately to both, as a valuable evangelical minis- ter of the fairest character, and fervently pray, that they may remain long together, in perfect harmony, for mutual edification, and the promotion of true reli- gion. Signed, Patrick allison, ModW,'^ "By the removal of this worthy minister of Christ, he was placed in a more elevated and conspicuous station in the church, and a wider field of usefulness was open- ed to him. How faithfully, piously, and acceptably, he filled this station, and occupied this field, is witness- ed by very many witnesses ; particularly by the high- ly respectable testimonial, inserted at the close of the preface to this work, and by the tears of deep felt sor- row shed at his sudden decease, not only by his affection- ate and beloved flock ; but by thousands of others \u BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH. 19 different parts of our country, who had either shared in the pleasure and benefit of his acquaintance and cor- respondence, been partakers of his liberal and affec- tionate hospitality, or enjoyed the fruits of his hearty and widely extended benevolence. The heart of no one, it is believed, was evermore uniformly and ardent- ly set on doing good, than that of Dr. Keilh. He was willing to spend and be spent in the service of God, and of his fellow men. In afflictions, by repeated bereave- ment of friends whom he loved as his own soul, and under trials of a very different nature, and still more wound- ing and perplexing to his pious heart, he exhibited a spirit of meekness, patience, and forbearance, highly becoming the christian character, and which plainly in- dicated that he had taken Him for his pattern, " who when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suf- fered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously." In the establishment and subsequent measures of sev- eral benevolent, pious, and charitable Institutions, par- ticularly a " Society for promoting the interests of re- ligion," in 180*2, and the " Charleston Bible Society," in 1810, Dr. Keitli contributed liberally, both of his prop- erty and influence. He was ready to every good work ; and seemed never weary in well doing. Dr. Keith's Epistolary talents will be apparent to the readers of this volume. Letters to friends, written as were those in this volume, utter, more than any other writings, the feelings of the heart. These letters ex- hibit the writer, in the various characters of husband, brother, friend, comforter, and patriot, to peculiar ad- vantage. Dr. Keith maintained, during his public life, the latter part of it espfecially, an extensive and voluminous so JBIOGRArHTCAI, SKETCH. corresponei>eru- tion, froni France, during; the leigii of Louis the four- teenth. Her father, for a long coni^e of years, has been ianked amonj]!; the first here in chrisiian knowl- edge and experience." With this beloved companion, lie Ii\ed little ojoie than five ^ears. After siitiVfing under a lingering and a slowly waist ing disease, on the loth of May, 1803, she finished her eacthly touise, enjoying in her last moments, " a solid, settled ppa« e in belie\ing ; and in the morning of the Lord's day,»-n- (ered npon her eternal sabbath, among the spirits of the just made perfect in the kingdom of their Ktrdeen:- er " His last wife, was Miss Jane Huxharn, a native of Exeter in England, who survives him as his widow ; of whoai, of course, delicacy forbids that we should Bay more, than that she (feserved and shared lar-ely in the aflections of her husband, while he lived, and also, and still, in the esteem and cordial affile f ions of his numerous and respectable fiiends. Though Dr. Keith died withoul issiie, he fi-ifilled the duties of a kind and liberal parent to «e\eial adopt- ed children. On this subject, in a letter to a b lend, of June 'JOth, IVM], in which he gives a particular ac- count of his father's faadly, he says, " My brother John, like myself, has no children. May we have an interest in the new, sure, well ordered, and e^ eriasting covenant of grace, and a name in the church and fami- ly of God, which will be better than any nurriber, even of the most worthy and amiable of sons and daughters." The excellent funeral discourse of the Rev. Dr. Flinn, which follows this skelchj^ in which the charac- 2€ BIOGRAPHICAI. SKETCH. lev of .istance, that through Him strengthening them they can do all things which he re- quires of them in his service ; and that when He who is the chief Shepherd, shall appear, they shall receive a crown of glory, which fadelh not away, and that shall eminently exalt and distinguish those, who have turned many to righteousness, or whose labours, to that end, have been uniformly employed with becoming zeal and fidelity. Happy indeed, happy beyond expression, is the minister of Christ, who obtains mercy of the Lord, to be f:uthful to his sacred and important trusty and through whose instrumentality, many are added to* 64 INAUGURATION SERMON that number which shall be saved ; and to whom he can address himself, in the animated language of the Apostle, and say, — " What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing T Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?" 2. What has been said, may serve to instruct those who are hearers of the word, what sort of preaching they are to expect of their ministers, and ought chiefly to desire and value. If the pure doctrines of the gos- pel, in their simplicity, are to be the subjects of our sermons, it follows that you should neither expect, nor desire any other ; nor suppose that the want of these, can ever be supplied by any philosophical speculations, or flowers of human eloquence; or, as the Apostle ex- presses it, with any " enticing words of man's wisdom." It is not the declaring of the testimony of God, with the excellency of speech, or of the wisdom of this world ; but the preaching of Jesus Christ, and him crucified, in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power, that alone can prove effectual, through the blessing of God, to save your souls. And as you would wish to experience, in this way, the saving efficacy of such doctrine, while you give us the pleasure and encour- agement of your attendance on our ministrations, and of a candid hearing of the word dispensed by us, let us be favoured, at the same time, with the assistance of your prayers 5 that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ ; and that the preaching of Christ crucified, which has been to the Jews a stumbling block, and to the Greeks fool- ishness, may be to you the power of God, and the wisdom of God, for your salvation. And further, let your fervent prayers be offered up to the Lord, that his word may have free course, and be glorified^ INAUGURATIOI^ SERaiON. 09 not only with jou, but among all men ; that the gos- pel may be preached to every cieature of the humaa race, and that all who hear its jojful sound, may believe its divine doctrines, and be saved. You have heard something of the nature of the gos- pel, and of the manner in which it is to be preached ; and as the preaching of this gospel forms an eminent part of the sacred service, in which I have been called, and am now received, to be employed as one of your ministers, I shall take leave to conclude this discourse, with a short Address to you, suited to the occasion of my entering upon the exercise of my ministry among you. On an occasion so important, as that of my taking up- on me my part in the pastoral charge of your souls, a variety of interesting thoughts, will naturally arise ia the reflecting mind ; and much more might be easily and pertinently said on the subject, than I shall at present attempt. Without a few words, however, I might appear to be scarcely just to myself, and should certainly be wanting in the respect due to you. The honor which I conceive was conferred upomHie^ by the call which you were pleased to address to me, I acknowledge with the sensibility of a very grateful heart. The terms in which it was dictated, I then con- sidered, and some experience has since given me addi- tional cause to consider, as the language of sincerity, and happily expressive of that spirit of Christian piety, friendship, and affection, which a minister of Christ must ever wish and rejoice to find in the people whom he is called to serve in the gospel. The best return ihati can make for all the testimonies and expressions of your favourable sentiments, and kind regards, which 66 INAUGURATION SEBMONc b^ve been already bestowed upon me, or whicb T may yet hope to experience, from a people, whose friendly and affectionate conduct towards their ministers, has been long honourably distinguished, will be, to devote myself with a zealous and affectionate heart, to the service of your souls, in the advancement of your spiritual and eternal interests and happiness. And I trust and hope, that I shall not be found altogether wanting; in that Christian and cordial love, and attachment to you, which will dispose and lead me, in this way, very glad- ly to spend and be spent for you. Many deficiencies, I am sensible, you will discern in the exercise of my ministry, as well as in other in- stances. From a consciousness of these, it was not without much diflSculty, that my own consent was ob- tained, to take part in the pastoral care of so large and important a branch of the Christian Church. To this, however, T was encDuraged^ primarily by the promises of the Great Head of the Church, that he will always be with his ministers, whenever and wherever ttiey are employed by his Providence, and that he will not re- qtti<;e more than he has given, but graciously accept them, according to what they have to offer, or are able to do, in his service. In subordination to this divine encouragement, was that derived from the persuasion, of my finding with you that candor and indulgence, which would lead you kindly to overlook, or bear with, my infirmities, and benevolently to accept my well meant endeavours to serve you ; and from the consid- eration, that I was not to be engaged alone in the ardu- ous undertaking; but to be associated with one, whose worthy character and useful labours, have justly ac- quired him that approbation, esteem and influence;, INAUGURATION SERMON". 67 which he happily enjoys with yon, and from whose friendly and good odices, in various ways, I promised myself many advantages. Wi(h him, under whose ministrations you have al- ready enjoyed several happy, and I hope, not unprofit- able years ; it is my earnest wish, it is my sincere res- olution, and I trust, through grace, it will be my con- stant endeavour, to maintain the most cordial harmo- ny, in carrying on the great design of our common ministry. And to every proper measure that may be used by us, to cultivate a friendly and affectionate union, and to encourage each others hearts, and strength- en each others hands in this great anil good work. I am persuaded you will always add every countenance and aid, which you can give. Youc fervent prayers, it is hi-ped. will ever be united Avith our own, that we may be ever animated as by one soul, that we may al- ways speak the truth in love, as with one mouth ; and that we may constantly and uniformly aim, and with abundant success, at the same great object, the glory of God, in your sahation. And w^hatever different powers, gifts, or qualifications, we may possess, you will not, on this account, we trust, e\er think of de- claring yourselves one for Paul, and another for Apol- los ; but still consider us as instruments only of a dif- ferent form, used by the same God of all grace, and employed by the one only Head of the Church, in the work of the ministry, for the edifying of ihe body, or the Church of Christ ; and whether we plant or water, prove instrumental to the conversion of sin- ners, or to the edification of believers, you will consid- er God alone as the Author of all the fruits or sue- 68 INAUGURATION SERMON. cesses of our respective services, and give Him the praise who giveth the increase. The pastoral relation in which I am now united with you, I consider as one of the most important and tender, that can take place between men on earth ; and conformably to the very interesting nature of the con- nexion, 1 trust, my heart will ever feel the tenderest interest in your concerns. For your prosperity, and especially that your souls may be in health, and pros- per in the divine life, I shall ever fervently pray, and in all your afflictions and distresses, whether as a So- ciety or as individuals, I shall ever be ready to bear a sympathetic part. In the God of your salvation, in whose favour is your life, and who^>e loving kindness is better than life, may you find that joy, in which I would always wish to rejoice with you, and the consolation, which you may need under all those sorrows in which I may be called to weep with you, may you also find in the same God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and the God of all com- fort, who alone is able, and who will be found always ready to comfort you, if you are not wanting to your- selves, in all your tribulations. The ministry received of the Lord Jesus Christ, to testify the gospel of the grace of God, which I haye now begun to exercise among you, it vv^ill, I trust, be my aim so to fulfil, through the whole course of it, whether that may be long or short, that 1 may finish it with joy, — May I obtain mercy of the Lord to be faithful in the discharge of it, so that when it comes to be concluded among you, I may be able, in the language of St. Paul, to take you to record, that "I am pure from the blood of all men,*' having not shunoed INAUGURATION SERMON. 69 (o declare unto you (he whole counsel of God, nor kept back any thing that appeared to be profitable to 7011 ; and uniformly inculcaling, as the scope and tendency of all my preaching, repentance towards God, and faith towards our Lord Jesus Christ. By your receiving the truth, thus preached, in the love of it, and with cordial obedience to if, let me entreat you, to afford me the best encouragement which you can give in this dif- ficult work ; and to bestow upon me the greatest hon- or and happiness, to which I can aspire among you, even that of cherishing the hope, the pleasing, the ani- mating hope, that if I should be so successful as to save my own soul, I m?y also rejoice in the day Christ, that I have not laboured in vain among j'ou, but have been in some measure instrumental to your salvation. Before I conclude, I cannot forbear expressing the pleasure which I feel, and my affectionate congratula- tions, with a word of exhortation to you, on account of the prosperous circumstances in which 1 find your Society at the present day, and the pleasing prospects which seem to be opened before you for the time to come. The increasing numbers, and growing strength of your Church, and the successful exertions which you have made under the many disadvantages in which you were involved by the calamities of an eventful, and (o you of this place in particular, a most distressful war : to repair the ruins of your ancient house of wor- ship, and to complete the new building for the public service of God, which you have raised, and the com- fortable provision which you have made for the support of the ordinances of the gospel in them, are circum- stances highly honorable and favorable to you. Not TO INAUGURATION SERMON. unto 3'oiirselves, howrever, not unto yourselves, but unto God, to whose kind and bountiful Providence jou are so deeply indebted, let all the praise be ascribed, for his truth and his mercy's sake. Be not weary in well doing, but let your zeal be still unremittingly employed, in the same good cause of your church and your religion, on those worthy motives, and wilh tliose exalted views, which Christianity inspires ; and in this way encourage your hope, that he who has put it into your heart to do so much for the honor of his name, will remember your works and labours of piety and love, and will cause you to see more and more of the good of his chosen, and to rejoice and glory with encreasing joy and triumph, in the gladness and pros- perity of his church and inheritance.^ That he will abundantly bless the provisions of his grace, dispensed to you in (he house which you have builded to his name, and add many to the number that shall here be fed with the bread of life. And as you would desire and hope that he would thus befriend and bless you, be careful that your hearts may ever remain united, in a sincere Christian friend- ship for each other, and that your mutual endeavours be employed in love, to serve one another, and to pro- mote the common interests of the whole body, of which you are members. This spirit of amity and concord, so congenial to the gospel, so well becoming.a Christian society, will, in the nature of things, eminently contrib- ute to the stability and growth of your church, and the advancement of j-our religious edification and comfort ; and it will most certainly secure to you the divine pres- * Psalm 186. INAUGURATION SERMON. fl ence and favour, on which all your prosperity, teippo- ral and vspiritual, ultimately depends. Be ye therefore of one mind, having the same love, be of one accord and live in peace, and the God of love and peace shall be with you. To the grace of God I commend you, fervently pray- ing (hat the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, may make yen per- fect, establish, strengthen, and settle you in the fai(b, the practice, the comforts, and the hopes of the gospel, on earth ; and finally receive you to dwell forever with the spirits of just men, made perfect, and with the gen- eral assembly and church of the fiist born, which are written in heaven ; that you may serve him day and night, in complete holiness and fulness of joy, in his temple there. And now unto him who is able to keep you from fall- ing, and to present you faultless before the presence of his 2;lory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power^ both now and ever. Amen. 5fATI0NAI< AFFLICTION, AKB NATIONAL COKSOL AT ID N 1 A SEEM ON, ON THE DEATH OF GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON^ LATE COMMANDER IN CHIEF OF THE ARMIES ; AXD FORMERLY PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA: Who Died at MOUNT VERNON, DECEMBER 14, 1799, IN THE 68th YEAR OF HIS AGE. aJELIVEEEU JANUARY, 12th 1800, IX THE INDEPENDENT, OR C0^"« GREGATIONAL CHURCH, IN CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA. BY ISAAC STOCKTON KEITH, D.D. ONE OF THE PASTORS OF SAID CHURCH. PUBLISHED BY REQ^UEST. 10 The following sermon was printed at the time it was preached. The M.S was submitted to one of his respectable Parishoners, who returned it with the following Note. 13th February, 1800. Dear Sir, I have perused with much satisfaction the enclosed, and am of opinion, that it will not be less acceptable to the public eye, than it was to the audience when it was delivered. I think it contains every thing that ought to be expected in a funeral sermon on the death of the late Gen- eral Washington. With very much esteem, Yonr obedient servant' Doctor Keith. SERMON DEATH OF OENERxiL GEORGE WASHINGTON- II. CHRON, XXXV. 24. ^' A.-b!n ALL JUDAH AND JERUSALEM MOURNED FOR JOSIAH." It is a very solemn and aflfecting scene, which is pre- sented to our view, in this portion of sacred history. Though a long series of ages has passed away since it took place, it cannot yet, be attentively reviewed, with- out exciting in the thoughtful mind, and feeling heart, many serious reflections and tender emotions. With every other part of Scripture, it was doubtless record- ed " for our learning," for our instruction and im- provement. It shews, particularly, in a striking point of light, how important to a community, are the life and services of a great and good prince ; or of a person holding a primary place in the government of his coun- try — and in that elevated station, distinguished by his superior talents, integrity, and public spirit ; and how heavy, and afflictive, is the loss sustained by a nation, when such a ruler and benefactor is " taken from its head," by the awful stroke of death. To these interesting reflections, we are unavoidably led by the consideration of the passage before us — 7a SERMON ON THE DEATH OE while we here behold the whole Jewish nation, with one consent, and as by one instantaneous impulse, as- suming the aspect, and exhibiting the tokens of the deepest affliction and mourning, on account of the death of their late king Josiah ; who was one of the worthiest and best, that ever reigned over them ; and whose life, from his earliest years, had been employed, under the influence of (he purest and noblest principles, in pro- moting the temporal and religious interests of his people. This good king was yet in the midst of his days, or in the vigor of his age, when it was his lot to receive a fatal wound, in a battle, to which he was probably led, by the terms of his alliance with the king of Israel, who was then tributary to the king of Babylon ; and there- fore bound to engage on the side of that monarch, in the war which was commenced against him by the king of Egypt. Of this wound Josiah died, immediately after his return to Jerusalem ; and thus the flattering, and apparently well founded hopes of his people, for a much longer continuance of his reign, and of the multi- plied blessings which they derived from it, were sud- denly terminated in the most gloomy and painful disap- pointment. An event, so calamitous, might well be expected to diffuse the most afflicting sensations through the body of the nation ; for whose welfare he had shewn so ear- ly, so zealous, and so constant a concern. According- ly, the sacred historian here informs us — that " AH Judah and Jerusalem mourned for Josiah." The in- habitants of every part of the country, concurring with those of the capital city, the place of the royal resi- dence, in every becoming affecting demonstration of sorrow, under this heavy national calamity. GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. 77 It is added, (hat Jeremiah the prophet, particularly lamented for Josiah. This venerable prophet, as it became a servant of God, under that peculiar sacred character which he sustained, was penetrated with the deepest grief for the loss of a prince, whose pions cares, and indefatigable exertions, were especially directed to the advancement of the cause of religion and virtue; a cause with which the peace and prosperity, and all the great interests of every community, as well as of every individual, are essentially and inseparably con- nected. And it is also mentioned, as another memora- ble circumstance of this national mourning for Josiah, that it was long perpetuated, by the institution of cer- tain solemn ser\ices, including, particularly, some elegiac compositions set to plaintive music, in commem- oration of an event, so mournful in its nature, and so afflicting in its consequences. In the history of mankind we shall often find a re- markable similarity of events and circumstances, oc- curring in the most distant countries and periods of time. With this memorable mourning of the Jewish nation, for the loss of their eminently worthy and amiable Jo- siah ;^how striking is the resemblance, that appears in the universal, unfeigned mourning, now exhibited by the American people, for the loss of their great, and excellent, and beloved WASHINGTON ; whose life was one of the most valuable blessings of a beneficent Providence to his country, and whose death is justly lamented, as a great national affliction. W^hen the m,an, whom God in his good providence, was pleased to honor, as the most distinguished instru- ment in his hand, for securing to the people of Ameri- ca, the liberty, civil and religious — the independence-— 78 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF the peace, and the prosperify, in the enjoyment of which, thej are at this day, apparently, the most fa- vored, and happy nation in the world. When he,' who, obedient to the voice of his country, repeatedly, and with magnanimous self-denial, exchanged his be- loved domestic pursuits and enjoyments, for the most arduous stations of public trust and service : And in those slations victoriously led our armies through the vicissitudes of a most difficult and perilous revolution- ary war ; and ably, and successfully presided in the executive department of our national government, dur- ing many of the most eventful years of an unexampled, and awfully portentous crisis in Europe, in which our political and commercial interests were deeply involv- ed. When he, who in the favorite scenes of private life, in which he delighted to pass his tranquil days, whenever the safety and glory of his count r}^ permitted, displayed the beauty and loveliness of those finer feelings, and accomplishments, which dignify and adorn the gentleman, the philosopher, the friend, and the do- mestic character. When he, in a word, who first vin- dicated our rights, as men and christians, with his sword ; and then shielded them from the envious, hostile designs of powerful foreign nations, and the turbulence of restless intestine factions, by the wisdom of his counsels, the equity, moderation, and firmness of his measures ; and who uniformly shone pre-eminent in great talents, in disinterested patriotism, and in the lus- tre of his public and private virtues and usefulness : When such a man is removed by the supreme, righteous Disposer of all things, from every station of honorable trust, and important service among his fellow mortals— and from all the scenes of mortali- GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. r9 ty ; — surelj, it well becomes the nation, of which he was one of the brightest ornaments, and greatest bene- factors, to mourn with the feelings of undissembled, deep, and lasting sorrow ! In such a sorrow all the citizens of the United States, who really love their country — with many in other na- tions, who possess the sensibilities of a feeling heart, and the genuine spirit of philanthropy, will bear a ten- der sympathetic part ; and sincerely mourn the father of his country, the patron of liberty, the friend of hu- manity — fallen under that stroke of death, to which the greatest, and most illustrious, equally with the feeblest, and most obscure of the human race, must finally bow. — > Of the general mourning, which the death of a man, so eminently and honorably distinguished in life, might well be expected to produce — the most unequivocal tokens are exhibited, wherever the melancholy tidings of it have been spread abroad. The customary badges of grief, which indicate a near and valued friend de- parted ; together with the various, more public and solemn expressions of a nation's sorrows, proclaim, in the most affecting, and impressive language, that our illustrious and beloved WASHINGTON is numbered with the dead ; and that his country sensibly feels, and sincerely mourns, the deeply interesting, and afflicting event ! That the sorrows, which we share in common with our fellow-citizens, throughout the union, and with the friends of liberty and humanity generally, under this bereaving dispensation of Divine Providence, may be brought under the guidance of sober reflection and true wisdom, and directed to some useful ends. — I shall endeavour, in the process of this discourse^; to shew. 80 SERMON ON' THE DEATH OF I. Why the death of great and worthy men, who have been eminently useful in their day, and especially in exalted stations of public trust and service^ ought to be lamented ; and, II. What profitable improvement may be made of the event, which is the occasion of the present general mourning of our country. — I. Why the death of great and worthy men, who Lave been eminently useful in theii day, and especially in exalted stations of public trust and usefulness, ought to be lamented. — Now the death of such men may well be lamented. 1 . On account of the many and great evils which they are instrumental in averting from a people.—. In the present fallen state of human nature, the pas- sions of men, their pride, their ambition — their avarice, their love of criminal pleasure ; in a word, their sel- fishness, strongly impel them to deeds of injustice, oppression, — and violence. — Hy these vicious disposi- tions, individuals are often stimulated to bitfer and deadly contentions ; — and communities, and nations, are plunged into all the outrages and calamities of public, and long protracted wars. If left to follow the impulse of these corrupt propensities of their fallen na- ture, without restraint or opposition, a few of the strongest and most unprincipled, bringing others, by force or artifice, into a subser\iency to their views, would not he&itate, with the aid of such instruments of their will, to invade the rights, to seize the posses- sions, to sacrifice the lives of their fellow-men, in any extent which they might think expedient, or find prac- ticable, to the accomplishment of their own base and criminal purposes. GBNERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. 81 But as the great Ruler of the universe, has designed and formed mankind for the social stale ; and has made their common mutual safety and welfare depend, in a great measure, upon that union and order uhich con- stitute the strength and beauty of society ; — so he con- stantly exercises a secret control over all human in- clinations, projects, and enterprizes. — And having the hearts of all men in his hanJs, he holds all their tumul- tuous imaginations, raging appetites, and furious pas- sions, continually subject to that irresistible authority and power, by which, when he pleases, he commands the stormy winds into a calm ; and says to the swelling boisterous sea, " Hitherto shalt thou come, but no farther; and here shall thy proud waves be stayed." In his government of mankind, however, and for the accomplishment of his wise designs, relating to them, he generally uses some visible means and subordinate agency, which have a natural fitness to bring about the worthy ends that he has proposed. In this view, he employs eminently the institutions of religion, and the ministers of his word, among the people, to whom he has been pleased to grant the distinguishing privileges and benefits of Divine Revelation. And in the nations generally, he raises up from time to time, particular persons, endued with some peculiar talents and dispo- sitions ; by which they are qualified to rule over their fellow-men — i^nd prompted to employ their power and influence, in providing for the common welfare of the great body of the people ; in restraining and quieting the turbulent members of the community ; and in dis- concerting the schemes, and repelling the assaults of their various enemies. n 82 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF Thus — while the Supreme Governor of nations^ sometiaies elevates men of strong natural abilities, con* nected with the most vile, and profligate moral princi- ples, to great power, — .and then uses them as the sword in his hand, for chastising any wicked and rebellious people, whom he determines to punish ; — he also, at his pleasure, calls forth, and advances to exalted sta- tions of authority and trust, men of superior talents and worthy character ; and by their instrumentality, shields or delivers a people, whom he chuses to favor, from those violences or grievances, with which they may be menaced or oppressed. — By their friendly and successful agency, the nation, or community, with the care of whose interests they are intrusted, whether in the capacity of military commanders, or civil magis- trates, is rescued from the galling yoke of bondage — > from the dreadful state of anarchy and confusion; or from the final dissolution and utter ruin, to which it rais^ht otherwise be reduced, by the folly and wicked- ness of many of its own members ; or by the all 2;rasp- ing ambition, and insatiable cupidity of foreign hostile nations and potentates. Such are the mfin, whom " the Lord Most High— - Who is the great King over all the earth," often " q}ves to a people, according to his manifold mercies, to be,'* under himself, *' their saviours;" to be " the ministers of God, for" eminent '* good," to them in a state of peace ; and his chosen instruments, for "sav- ing them out of the hand of their enemies," in a time of war. When, th<^refore, men thus specially qualifiedj ano called to fill the most exalted and important stations,, in the service of their country; and and in the ordinary course of things, will be greatly advanced by their agency. In their superior station, distinguished by their great talents and virtues—by their knowledge of Luman nature, of its powers and weaknesses — of its passions and its wants — and of the state of their own nation, considered in an abstract point of view, and in its relations to other countries — by their penetrating, accurate judgment, and enlarged, comprehensive view of things— by the wisdom of their counsels, and the rectitude of their measures — by the purity and ardor of their patriotism ; and by their active courage, and unyielding resolution, in meeting and surmounting the various and multiplied dangers, difficulties and trials, which they may have to encounter in their country's GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. 85 cause and service — they are eminently qu.tlified, to teach the great body of the people, for whom they act, the nature and value of their civil and sacred rights, and privileges, and to guide and animate their exer- tions in the pursuit and defence of their true interests ; — and under the smiles of a favouring Providence, their instrumentality has a great effect, in securing and im- proving the most important national advantages. The desirable ends, which their high qualifications, and patriotic labours are thus adapted to accomplish, are further promoted by the powerful engaging influ- ence of their great example. For " as the going forth of the sun, is from the end of heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it, and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof;" so the examples of great and good men, moving in exalted spheres of public service, and use- fulness, diffuse their enlightening and enlivening beams, through the wide extent of the land in which they bear rule ; and have an happy tendency to stimulate and allure the other members of the community, in subor- dinate stations, to imitate their conduct, in the cultiva- tion of a public spirit, and in the practice of whatsoever things are pious and just — generous and honorable — lovely and praise-worthy; — and, in short, in the pur- suit of that course of well doing, which conducts indi- viduals, and communities, to a state of the most desira- ble prosperity in this world ; while it leads those, who walk in it, under the influence of a truly christian faith, to glory, honor, and immortality in the world to come. Highly favoured indeed, are the people to whom the Lord gives such rulers and commanders, as his chosen agents, for communicating and securing to them so 86 SERMON ON THE DEATH OP many precious blessings of his favor — and so rich a portion of national honor and happiness ! When, therefore, a people are bereaved of such val- uable benefactors, thej sustain an unspeakable loss ^ and are solemnly called by the providence of God to mourn — feelingly and deeply to mourn under the heavy and distressing stroKe of his holy hand. The observations which have been suggested, will, it is believed, admit of a just and forcible application to the present case of our own nation, under that very af- flicting dispensation of Divine Providence, which has bereaved us, of a general and statesman, who, in the expressive and emphatical language of our House of Representatives in Congress, — " was the first in war — ibf first in peace, and the first in the affections of his country." To trace the respectable descent of this great and worthy man — to attend to the first promising buds of a superior mind, and of his future greatness, which be- gan to unfold themselves in his juvenile days and pur- suits — 10 observe the early display of his extraordinary military talents in a station of subordinate but honora- ble and important command, while these United States were yet dependent provinces of Great Britain — to follow him in his great career of military glory, — when as commander in chief, he directed the operations of our armies, during the whole eight years of the memor- able revolutionary war ; into which we were driven by the unwarrantable claims of the British government — claims too arrogant, degrading, and injurious, not to be resisted and repelled by the free born and high spirited sons of America — to mark the dignified manner in which he resigned into the hands of the American Con- Gfi^EHAL GEORGE WASHTNGtON. H7 gress the hisrh commission which he had received from them, when the ^reat objects of i(, — the independence and liberties of his country, were accomplished and se- cured ; and the truly paternal affection, and solicitude, with which he addressed some of the wisest and most salutary moral and political instructions and admoni- tions, to his fellow-soldiers, and fellow-citizens, whea from the most elevated station of military authority and power, he voluntarily and cheerfully descended to the ordinary condition and employments of a private gentleman — (o exhibit the important part, which with- in a few years after this period, he was called to act in that venerable convention of the principal statesmen of America ; by whose collected wisdom, our present ex- cellent system of federal government was framed, and in whose deliberations he presided, as the most honor- ed and influential member of that enlightened and pat- riotic body — to review his able and successful adminis- tration of this new government, in the ofSce of Presi- dent of the United States, to which he was first raised for the legal term of four years ; and in which be was afterwards continued for a like term, by the Tinani- mons sufTrages of the widely dispersed millions of his fellow-citizens — to represent him in the sublime atti- tude in which he appeared* when delivering the last solemn advice, which he directly addressed, under a public character, to the American people ; advice which was the fruit of superior wisdom, matured by Ion? experience, and of the purest and most disinter- ested patriotism, that had stood the test of the severest trials ; while at the same time he announced his de- cided resolution to decline standing a candidate for a re-election to the presidency, on which he had reasoR 88 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF to calrulafe with the greatest confidence ;— and cob- formably to his declared purpose, iaimediateij retired, from all the flattering distinctions connected with the supreme magistracy of the L'nion, to the ardently de- sired calm retreat of private life, in which he designed, and hoped to pass the residue of his days in undisturb- ed tranquility and peace— -to pourtray the glory of the finishing public act of his exalted, and unabated pat- riotism, when he once more yielded to the importunate call of his country, and consented to resume the com- mand of the forces, which it was preparing for its de- fence against the injustice and violence of a rapacious, a?iibitious, and unprincipled foreign power ; — to con- template him here in the closing scene, when thus de- termined and prepared, to relinquish the repose which was so agreeable and desirable to his advanced age, af- ter the long continued pressing labours of a most active public life, for the toils and dangers of an apparently- inevitable and arduous war ; — receiv ing the solemn mandate of Heaven, which summoned his great soul to the world of spirits; — and with that calm and unshaken firmness of mind, for which he was ever remarkable, finishing his honorable, earthly career in death — to speak now particularly of the inestimable services which he rendered to his country, and to the cause of religion, liberty, and humanity ;— ir to attempt a de- lineation of the particular features of his great character. c All this would form an undertaking, to which I feel myself wholly incompe- tent ! and which could not be well executed by the best abilities, within the limits prescribed to this dis- course. This accordingly comes not within my pres- ent design ; but is left as the proper work of the biog- GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. 89 rapher and historian ; — and in the faithful, well-writtea memoirs of his life, — and history of his country, — the sublime character, — and the illustrious deeds of our WASHINGTON, will doubtless shine with pre-emi- nent glory, — through a long series of ages, and diffuse an increasing splendour over many succeeding genera- tions. In the mean time, while we mourn the Father of our country taken from our head, and gone down to " the grave, the house prepared for all living ;" — let us now be led to consider,—* II. What profitable improvement may be made of this event, which is the occasion of the present deep and universal sorrow and mourning cf our country — and, 1. It becomes us to cherish the remembrance of the excellent character and eminent services of our coun- try's most illustrious citizen and distinguished benefac- tor, whose death we now lament, with a grateful sense of our obligations to the beneficent providence of God, who qualified and employed him, as a leading instru- ment, in securing to us so many, and such inestimably valuable national blessings. The memory of the man, whom God was pleased most remarkably to honor, as the instrument in his hand, for the communication of so much good to our highly favoured nation, should be peculiarly dear to all our citizens ; — and it should be transmitted, with every appropriate, impressive mark of distinguishing esteem and regard, to posterity — as a splendid example for the imitation of future patriots, generals, and states- men— «and of our citizens generally, in every depart- ment of public and private life. — In the records of na- 12 &0 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF lions, excepting only those of God's ancient, choseo and peculiar people, we should probably search in vain for the example of an union of great talents and virtues, of worthy conduct, and important usefulness, superior, if we even could find one equal, to that which has been exhibited by our admired and beloved Washington, in those hi£;h military and civil employments, in which he was called to defend and serve his country. But remembering that " every good gift," every valuable possession, privilege, or benefit, whether of a private or public nature, or through whatever channel, or medium, conveyed to us, " comes down from the Great Father of lights and mercies ;" — let us study to be thankful to HIM, who graciously provided such a general and statesman, to conduct our military opera- tions, and administer our civil and political affairs, dur- ing a long period, the most critical and interesting to our nation — who crowned his wise councils, his virtuous measures, his heroic eflforts, with such happy success—* and who prolonged his life, with his capacity, and his zeal unimpaired, for the service of his country — till it wag safely conducted through a long series of the most perplexing difficulties, and formidable dangers, and at length securely established, as we trust, in the enjoy- ment of a most excellent constitution of governmenty and a most desirable state of peace and prosperity. Most kind and indulgent, indeed, has been the provi- dence of the God of our mercies, in first bestowing up- on us, and then forbearing to remove from us, the man, who was one of the most impregnable bulwarks of our country in war, and one of its strongest pillars in peace — li-11 it was settled and confirmed in its present eligible situation ; in which it does not probably so immediate- GESTERAL 6EOROE WASHINGTON. 91 ly depend, as at some former periods, on the services or influence of anj individual ; and seems not likely to be so easily shaken, as it might have sometimes hereto- fore been, by the restless spirit of infernal faction ; or by the dark intrigues, or open violence of foreign, jeaU , ous, and unfriendly nations ! Let us I hen, at once, honor the memory of our de- parted illustrious General and President ; and praise the divine and most bountiful Author of all the various blessings of a civil and a sacred nature, which through his distinguished agency, we have experienced, and now enjoy, as an independenl, a free, a great, and an happy nation ! 2. Let us learn " to cease from man, whose breath is in his nostrils," — and to repose an humble, stedfast trust and hope, in the ever-living, all-sufficient, and un- changeable God, for that guidance, protection, and va- rious aid, which as a people, we continually need, in or- der to our safety and welfare. " Lord, what is man, and wheretn is he to be ac- counted of?" — " All flesh is grass, and the glory of man, as the flower of the grass ; the grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away. In the morning it flourisheth and groweth up ; in the evening it is cut down and withereth !" — What is man in honor? He is a shadow that passeth rapidly away. What is man in his best estate ? He is, in respect of all the worldly advantages which he may possess, and of all the bene- fits which his fellow-mortals may expect from him, al- together vanity ! " Let us not then put our trust in princes," — in those who among their fellow-men are clothed with supreme authority and power, or bear the character of the great 92 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF and the good-—** nor in the son of man," of whatever qualifications, or in whatever station, " for in him there is no" effectual or certain " help." " Their breath go- eth forth — they return to their earth ; in that verj day all their thoughts," either for their own aggran- dizement, or security, or for promoting the public good, " perish" in the gloom of " the grave, where they have no more a portion in any thing that is done under the sun." — But let us remember, " that happy is the man, and happy the people — and that happy alone are they, who have the God of Jacob for their help, and whose hope is in the Lord their God, who made Heaven and earth, the sea, and all that therein is; — who keepeth truth forever — who executeth judg- ment for the oppressed — who loveth the righteous ; but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down— • who putteth down one and sitteth up another — who straighteneth the nations and enlargeth them at his pleasure ; and who, in the exercise of his sovereign, Almighty, most wise, righteous, and beneficent domin- ion, reigneth for ever, even unto all generations," Our lately universally esteemed, and now universal- ly lamented Washington, in the possession of all his excellencies and honors, was but a mortal man. Thanks be to God for the great qualifications by which he was distinguished — for his important public servi- ces — and for the long continuance of his eminently val- uable and useful life ! — And now, blessed be God, that the hopes of our country are not buried in the same tomb with his venerable dust ; but that to Himself, who is " the possessor of all that is in the heaven and in the earth— .whose is the greatness, and the power, and GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTOIT, 93 the glory, and the victory, and the majesty, who reigns over all, and who is the same, yesterday, to day, and for ever" — we may still look up as " our light and our salvation," " for leaders and commanders of the peo- ple," for the preservation of our independence and lib- erties, government and laws, order and peace, and the perpetuity and advancement of our national, as well as personal safety, prosperity, and happiness ! 3. While we mourn for the loss which our nation has sustained, by the death of such an able defender, and distinguished benefactor — let us be excited to pray for our country, and especially for those, who occupy the principal places of authority, trust, and power, in its government. ** To offer up supplications, prayers, and interces- sions for all men," and especially for those, whose inter- est and welfare, ar e most nearly connected with our own, and upon whose counsels and measures," our safety and happiness, under God, most immediately depend — is at all times an important christian duty. For our fellow- men, in every nation of the earth, in every branch of the great family of mankind, we should constantly pray ; that they may enjoy the advantages of wise and good governments and laws — and the blessings of the gospel of the great Redeemer of fallen men, in its un- clouded light, uncorrupted purity, and saving power ; — -" that the people who delight in war may be scatter- ed — that the wickedness of the wicked may come to an end — that the just may be established," — and that the cause of truth and righteousness, and of genuine liber- ty, civil and religious, involving all the great interests of communities and individuals, may prevail and tri- umph, universally, through the world. 94 SERMON- ON THE DEATH OF For our countrj, especiallj, we should continually pray — that the great Governor of nations, our guardian God, and the God of salvation, may be pleased to for- give our multiplied follies and offences, by which we are daily forfeiting his mercies, and provoking his judg- ments ; — " to turn away every token of his anger from us, and remember us wirh the favor which he bears to his chosen and peculiar people" — to secure to us the full and uninterrupted possession of our personal and national rights and privileges ; in the enjoyment of order, harmony, and tranquillity at home, and of peace and honor abroad— -to prosper all ranks and classes of the inhabitants of our land, in their several stations, and lawful, worldly pursuits — and " to visit us with" the infinitely more precious blessings of " his spiritual and everlasting salvation," " For all in authority over us," and intrusted with the care of our national interests, in public stations, we ought more particularly to pray, that they may be " wise and able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness," and zealous, active, resolute, and stedfast in their concern for, and pursuit of the public good. Considering how multiplied, arduous, and per- plexing, are the cares of government — how peculiarly strong and pressing are the temptations, with which men, in exalted stations of trust and power, are contin- ually surrounded ; and how many, and great, are the evils or benefits, which may result to the community from their ill or good conduct, in the important places which they occupy — in the elevated spheres wherein they move — we should, from a tender sympathy for them, and a prudent regard to our own interests, pray continually for our rulers — " that the Lord may give them a wise and understanding heart, to discern be- GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON^. 95 tween good and evil, and to go out and in before a great people," with discretion and fidelity, with unsullied honor and good success. And thus are we, by a special, solemn voice of Di- vine Providence, called to praj for our country, at the present juncture, while mourning the recent death, of our late illustrious General and President ; and to pray, more particularly, for his worthy and venerable suc- cessor in the presidency of the Union; that he may be divinely assisted, in sustaining the increased weight of anxious care, which is devolved upon him, by the loss of so early, able, and experienced an associate, in the great cause of America — and that he may steadily and firmly, proceed to tread in the same steps of wis- dom, virtue, and honor, by which the great and excel- lent Washington conducted his country, to the pres- ent dignified and enviable rank, which it holds among the nations of the earth. Finally ; 4. Let the consideration of this very affecting in- stance of mortality, which has filled the heart of our nation with sorrow and mourning, be improved to awaken and engage us all, to a faithful and diligent dis- charge of the duties of our respective stations ; and to a seasonable preparation, and constant watchfulness for the order of God, which shall dismiss us from all our employments here, to a state of righteous and ever- lasting retribution in a future world. To act, as if we thought that we were bound by no obligations, to extend our views or regards beyond our- selves ; but had a right to employ our time and powers, merely to serve our own selfish purposes, would be very disgraceful to our character as men and citizens. Much 96 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF more reproachful then, must such conduct appear to be, in those who bear the name of Christians — when it is viewed in the light of the gospel — when it is consid- ered as in direct contradiction to those benevolent and refined principles of the religion of the blessed Jesus, which require us " to love our neighbour as ourselves" — - " to rejoice with them that rejoice— to weep with them that weep" — " to bear one another's burthens" — ** and as we have ability and opportunity, to do good to all around us." Let us, therefore, reflect and consider what the Lord our God and Saviour requires of us, in our several sta- tions — and endeavour to occupy, with the talents which he has committed to us, in that manner, by which his great name may be most glorified, and the best inter- ests of our fellow-men, together with our own, most ef- fectually advanced. Fathers, Let not the residue of your strength be wholly spent in that ease and inactivity, which, to de- clining years, usually appear most inviting. — If you are yet living to yourselves, and for this world ; surely it is high time that you begin to live to the Lord, and for eternity. If, in the course of a life of christian faith, piety and virtue, you are serving and honoring the adorable Author of your being and redemption, and pursuing the great euds of your rational existence, — " Be not weary in well doing, but hold on your way, and hold out to the end, and still go from strength to strength, till you enter into that everlasting rest, which remaineth for the people of God." And remember, that it par- ticularly becomes you, to teach the rising generation their duties to God, to their neighbour, and themselves GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON. ' 97 —to admonish them of the vicissitude?, the tempta- tions, the dangers, to which they may be exposed in the untried journey of life ; and to recommend the counsels of matured wisdom, and long experience, by the engaging inSuence of the good example, which you will exhibit, while you continue to walk with steady steps, and cheerful hopes, in " the path of the just ; which is as tiie shining light" of the morning, " shining more and more unto the perfect day." Young men. Let not the flower of your age ; the vigour of your faculties, be dishonored and wasted in the indulgence of unmanly sloth — of unprofitable, dissi- pating amusements — or of sordid, criminal, and de- structive pleasures : But study to furnish your minds with useful knowledge, to acquire and strengthen the dispositions and habits of purity and temperance, of regularity and diligence, of generosity and economy. " Remember your Creator and Redeemer in the days of your youth :" Choose and pursue " the wa}S of wisdom, which are the only ways of pleasantness, and peace :" Fulfil the obligations of every relation, which you sustain, with respectful attention and affection ; with strict fidelity and becoming; cheerfulness ; and let your breasts glow with a laudable, ardent ambition, to act a worthy part, and become the ornaments and bles- sings of society, in your day. Let it be the concern of ever}* one of us, in short, that we may feel the power, and manifest the influence of those sacred, heavenly principles of the gospel, wliich will bear down every selfish, contracted disposition of our degenerate nature, and elevate and enlarge our hearts, in the most benevolent desires, and prompt us to correspondent, worthy effoi ta, to be as useful as pos° 13 98 SERMON ON THE DEATH OF sible, in our respective spheres — to contribute some- thing to the welfare of the civil community, with which We are connected, and to the extension of the bounds, and the advancement of the glory of the Redeemer's king- dom of grace in the world. And by the great example of the distinguished friend and benefactor of his country, whose loss we now de- plore ; let us all be taught and animated to cherish that public spirit, which shone so conspicuously in him ; and which will determine us to maintain for ourselves, and to transmit to the generations, that shall come af- ter us, the national independence, and the precious lib- erties involved in it, for which he so nobly fought — • and which he guarded with so vigilant an eye, and faith- ful a hand, — and to exert our influence, as far as it may- extend, for preserving and supporting religion and mo- rality, order and peace, in our land, — for promoting the prosperity of church and state, and for aiding our fel- low-citizens, and fellow ch»isu, and those for whom you praj, exceeding abun- dantly above all that yoJi can ask or think. In'imately connected with, and subservient to the design of preaching the word, is the maintenance of that discipline which the great Head of the c^huich has instituted for its benefit ; for the preservation of its purity and order, and the promotion of its peace and prosperity. This then you should endeavour to exer- cise, with the concurrence (if the church, in such a man- ner as may manifest a becoming attention and solicitude, to distinguish between the precious and the vile, in the admission of persons to sealing ordinances ; and in pro- ceeding according to the rule of the gospel, against such members of the church, as may become guilty of gross and scandalous offences, tending to bring a re- proach upon the sacred society with which they are -connected. If this spiritual power with which the church in con- junction with its pastors is invested, were employed with becoming fidelity, impartiality, prudence and ten- clerness, it might well be expected, through a divine blessing, to be productive of very important and desir- able effects, in establishing the reputation, and advanc- ing the interests of the church. Allow me further to recommend to you the cultiva- tion and expression of that charitable and catholic spir- it, which is most consonant to the genius of the gospel, and will have the happiest tendency to render your siervices, as a minister of the word, more extensively acceptable and useful. To such a spirit, the authors and advocates of modern systems of infidel philosophy, make hhh pretens;ions. But their boasted liberality, is manifestly nothing better 15 114 A CHARGE. than a spirit of indifference to whatever bears the name of religion, excepting onlj the religion of the Bible. As this is the only system which can claim a heavenly original, and is sanctioned with the stamp of divine au- thority, while it is framed in al! its principles, to give glory to God, and to humble the pride of fallen man, and to restrain and correct those vicious propensities of our corrupt nature, which the disciples of infidelity and li- bertinism are determined to cherish, and for the grati- fication of which, they incessantly plead ; their charity utterly fails them, in their treatment of this religion, and they find it difficult, if they at all attempt, to dis- guise the spirit of determined and bitter hostility against it, by which they are actuated. Hence it re- sults, that however indulgent they may be to the er- rors, follies and vices, of all who are strangers to divine revelation, or who reject the religion which the Scrip- tures teach ; yet, in the impious ridicule, the malicious scorn and reproaches, and the various illiberal abuse^ by which they attempt to expose to contempt and ha- tred, the distinguishing doctrines of the gospel, and the character or principles of its worthiest and best pro- fessors and lessings, you are now at len^cth happily united in the choice of a pastor, who has been this day solemnly or- dained to the ministry of the goepel, with a view to his exercising it amons: you, and whose hisfhest ambition and ioy, we trust, will be to spend and be spent in the service of h's Ijord, for the salvation of your soids. In these respects surely toii have been highly favoured ** throu2;h the good hand of your God upon you." The providence of God which effected this happy change in your situation, ha« bpen in some respects as remarkably striking, as it has been to vou peculiarly gracious and merciful. ** The Lord hath indeed done great thinsrs for vou, whereof you are sjlar'," and on ac- count of which all the friends of Zion, who have been acquainted wifh your affairs, and who lately sympathiz- ed with you in vonr destitute cirrumstances, now re- joice with yoii, and cheerfully unite their irreatfnl ac- knowledgements with yours to the God of vmir mer- cies, who has rnopt kindly restored to you the enjoy- ment of those precious gospel j^rivllccres of which you were so long deprived. " Not unto yourselves, not A CHARGE. 1^1 Utito yourselves, but unto the Lord, let all the praise and glory be given for his mercy and his truth's sake*'*. For it was He who put it into your hearts to undertake what you have thus done for the honor of his nasne, the advancement of his cause, and Ihe promotion of your own best and everlasting interests. It is He, who has supported you under all the discouraging circum- stances and appearances which you had to encounter, who has furnished you with much unexpected assist- ance in the good work in which you encaged, and has answered your prayers and succeeded your efforts, probably beyond the utmost extent of your first hopes. Thus highly favoured with those stated gospel min- istrations and ordinances which you so long wanted, and so much desired, let your gratitude, to the gracious Author of them, be now manifested in your care to im- prove them with fidelity, and in your prayers that they may be divinely and abundantly blessed to you ! As your pastor is under the most solemn and sacred en- gagements to devote his time and his talents to the ser- vice of your souls ; so we are persuaded, from the liberal things which you have already devised and done, that you will remember and feel the obligations which the gospel lays upon you, to make such provision, accord- ing to the means in your power, for his temporal wants and comfort, as will give him the command of his time, and leave him at liberty for " serving the Lord without distraction," in his studies and his labours, to promote your everlasting salvation. Is it his indispensable duty " to take heed to the min- istry which he has received in the Lord, that he may fulfil it?" Surely then you are no less bound to at- tend his ministrations with as much regularity and con- 16 122 A CHARGE. sfaiicy as may be within your power, and to concur with and aid him in all proper measures for maintaining that church order which constitutes an eminent part of the strength, the beauty and the honor of every christian society. While he is allowed the satisfaction of wit- nessing such a worthy and honorable conduct in you ; how greatly will his heart be encouraged, and bis hands strengthened in every part of this arduous work ! Whetherindeedyouwillattentively hear the word of God at his mouth or not, whether you will reverence or dis- regard the institutions of the gospel ; he must endeavour to deliver his own soul, in the faithful discharge of the duties of" a watchman to you, in teaching, exhorting, warning, reproving, and rebuking with all authority" and impartiality, as well as with all gentleness and long suffering ; so that if the wicked and disobedient will not be adojonished, and engaged to turn from their wicked- ness and wicked ways, and seek and secure the life and salvation of their souls, but persist in their iniquities, <* and die in their sins, their blood may not be required at his hands, but remain upon their own heads." But with what grief and heaviness of heart must your pas- tor think of bis Lord and Master being thus despised, through such a neglect of his word and ordinances ! And how greatly will the burden of his labours be aug- mented by the prospect of their proving thus fruitless to such of you as he shall not be instrumental in saving by them, and serving only on the other hand to aggra- vate your guilt, and to increase the terrors of your final condemnation, and the anguish of your everlasting mis- ery ! Would you not be chargeable with a conduct so unkind, so criminal, and so ruinous ; would you wish to afford your pastor, the greatest comfort which he can A CHARGE. 123 find in you ; and would you manifest that you really love your own souls? Be admonished and enlreated then, to hear the gospel which he is appointed to preach to you, and " to obey hiiU, and to submit yourselves," in respect to the ministerial authority with which he is in- vested to rule over you in spirilual things ; ^' remem- bering that he watches for your souls as one that must give an account, that he may do it with joy and not with grief; for that would be unprofitable for you." Is he concerned " to take heed to himself as well as to his doctrine/* that he may approve himself a wor- thy example to the flock, of the faith, piety, and virtue ■which he preaches ? And does it not equally become you to endeavour '' to be followers of him, so far as he shall be a follower of Christ ?" But you are also to re- member, that the most upright and faithful ministers of Christ, " are men of like passions with other men," and subject to iniirmities similar to those with which the other followers of Christ, even the worthiest and the best, are encompassed ; while they are exposed to some temptations and trials, peculiar to the office which they bear, and the work in which they are employed. Hence they are taught humility and watchfulness, their equal dependence with the weakest members of the household of faith, on the blood and righteousness and grace of the Redeemer, for the pardon of their daily failings and offences, their acceptance in every duty, and their sufficiency for all their work and warfare ; and hence they learn to cherish a tender sympathy with their christian brethren, and acquire, with a more ready disposition, the wisdom and experience which are requi- site, for strengthening and comforting them in all their 124 A CHARGE. conflicts and temptations, and various discouragements and sorrows. Do not then look for perfection in the character of jour spiritual teacher and guide ; and when you may perceive in him the common fraiUies of human nature, which in the best on earfh is onlj renew- ed and sanctified in part, suffer them not to alienate your affections from him, or to operate to the prejudice of his usefulness among you. Over such imperfections as you will have reason to believe are disallowed and lamented by himself, more than by any one else who may observe them, kindly spread the mantle of chari- ly ; and at the same time, sfudj^ to *' do those things which you may learn and receive, and hear and see in him agreeably to the mind and gospel of Christ ;" who is the great and only perfect pattern of ail that is wise find holy, good and lovely, ♦' and who has left us his un- erring example, that we should follow his steps." Is it also an eminent part of your ministers duty, to pray for you? And shall you not feel yourselves equal- ly bound to pray for him ? The Apostles themselves, with all the eminent gifts and graces by which they were distinguished, felt their need, and often solicited the assistance of the prayers of the churches ; that ihey might find grace to be faithful and successful, in their arduous work, and to be constant and victorious, in all their peculiar trials and temptations. " Brethren pray for us," is a request frequently repeated by the Apostle Paul, in the name of himself and of his fellow- labourers in the gospel ministry : And long observation anti experience, have originated and sanctioned the maxim, that ** a praying people make a preaching min- ister." The prayers of their people accordingly, all faithful ministers highly value and earnestly desire ; A CHARGE. 123 persuaded that in answer to these, the Lord delights to direct and assist, to own and to bless their labours, the success of which lies near their hearts, and forms an eminent part of their happiness. Thus to pray for your minister then, is a debt of love which you owe to him, who has engaged himself in the various arduous labours of his office, to seek and promote your everlast- ing interests : And in thus praying for him, you will best shew your love to your own souls; as by your prayers for him, you improve the mean particularly en- joined and recommended in the word of God, and hon- ored by his blessing, for obtaining that co-operation of the Spirit of grace, to attend the ministrations of the gospel, wifhont which " Paul would plant, and Apollos water" in vain ; but with which the gospel, by whatever instrumentality it is dispensed, may be expected to yield its proper increase, and to bring forth in those to whom it is preached, the desirable fruits of faith and repentance, conversion and salvation. Wherefore pray continually and fervently for your minister ; re- membering that in so doing, you most effectually help him in his work, and secure that divine blessing upon his ministry, which wiU make the gospel preached by him, " the power of God to your salvation,'' and instm- men with your permission to print the same. With respect and esteem, I am Sir, Your obedient servant, J. B. HOLMES, Chairman. Com, ' REV. DR. KEITH. N. B. The copy of this Address was prepared for the press by the Author; but now appears in prlat for the first time. Editor. ADDRESS. J- HE Institution, whose tenth Anniversary we this day celebrate, is certainly well entitled to all the atten- tion and favour with which it has been hitherto distin- guished. Dedicated to the relief of one of tlie most in- teresting classes of the children of adversity, and em- bracing the objects of a most liberal and enlarged poli- cy, as well as philanthropy, it justly claims the warm- est patronage of the public, and must unite in its favour the hearts of all among us, who are disposed ** to weep with them that weep ;" and are solicitous to turn their days of sorrow and mourning, into days of peace and joy- To provide an hospitable refuge to a number of our young fellow-mortals, who might have long lived desti- tute and friendless, or have fallen wretched and forlorn victims to a premature death ; to rescue them from the complicated evils, generally connected with ignorance and idleness, in a state of extreme poverty- ; to furnish them with a comfortable subsistence in the years of their helpless childhood ; and to prepare them, by a seasonable education in the elements of the most nee* essary knowledge, and by the early acquisition of a most useful habit of industry, for sharing the happiness, and increasing the strength and prosperity of the com* 132 AW ADDRESS, DELITEREB munity to which they belong ; how generous the de- sign, how exalted and extensive the charity ; how de- serving, not only of the good wishes of the benevolent, but of the zealous exertions, and liberal aid of all, in the power of whose hand it may be, to contribute to its support, and the advancement of its usefulness. Every return of this Anniversary, unavoidably awakens the pleasing recollection of the origin and pro- gress of this great and beneficent undertaking. On the present interesting occasion, we naturally recal to grate- ful remembrance, the enlarged and active benevolence of those who formed and matured the plan of this no- ble Asylum ; the continued generosity of those whose free-will offerings have been, from time to time, pre- sented in aid of the funds, which the treasury of our city has been hitherto able to afford ; and the unremit- ting zeal and exertions of those, who, in the honorable station of members of our city council, and of those, who under their direction, holding the important commission ofthe special guardians of this Institution, have faithfully watched over its interests, and assiduously pursued the best practicable measures for promoting its prosperity and usefulness. To pay the due tribute of honor to the worthy au- thors and benefactors of so valuable an Institution, would be to me a pleasing part of this Address. But the refined feelings, which have prompted the truly be- nevolent to these generous deeds, will, doubtless, be much more agreeably gratified, if I shall be able to sug- gest any thing, that may be more directly conducive to the further advancement of the same good work ; than they would be in hearing the best eulogies which I could offer, reminding them of what they have already so worthily done. AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. IZH Now, as it is from the more wealthy members of the commuoitj, that an Asylum, provided for the children of want and adversity, must be expected to derive its principal support, and the means of diffusing more ex- tensively its benefits ; and as the leading design of our present attendance here, is to pour a measure of the bounty of Heaven, of which werespectively partake, into this excellent fountain of charity, that its sweet and re- freshing streams, instead of failing or running lower, may flow without interruption, and with more copious sup- plies to those who need them : I have thought that your reflections, may be turned into a direction favoura- ble to the accomplishment of the great object now in view, by a few observations, intended To point out some of the most important and valuable purposes, to which riches may be improved ; and To remind you of some of the principal considera- tions or motives, by which such an improvement of them is most persuasively recommended. Among the persons whom I contemplate as the pos- sessors of riches, I include those, whose resources are more than adequate to the supply of their real wants, and to their comfortable accommodation in that station, which they hold in society. Those, who on the solid ground of justice and honor, possess a larger share of property, than will suffice, in the exercise of an economy, equally remote from mean parsimony, and a foolish, os- tentatious, prodigf\lity, to maintain a style of living, correspondent to the rank and employment which Di- vine Providence has allotted to them, may be fairly ar- ranged in the class of the rich. For in this class there are many grades, commencing with those who enjoy lomething more than a real competence, and ascending 134 AX ADDRESS, DELITERED to those, who, in the enjoyment of an affluent portion of worldly goods, rnay be denominated opulent. And proportioned to the measure of riches, which they pos- sess, are the obligations by which they are bound to improve them, to the most useful purposes, which can be accomplished by them. To two only of these I mean to confine my present views. The first relates to that superior cultivation of the roind, which is reasonably expected of those who are blessed with the advantages, which riches afford for the accomplishment of this desirable object. It is by the powers of the mind, that men are chiefly distinguished from the irrational animals, and manifest themselves to be more nearly and honorably related to the great Father of spirits. In this view of man, the light of nature, led some of the ancient Heathen poets and moralists, to speak of him, as in a peculiar sense, the offspring; of the Deity. A nd in the light of Divine rev- elation, the Almighty is represented as conferring a special favour, and distinguishing mark of honor on men, when, " through his inspiration, he giveth them under- standing," by which they are made capable of know- ing more than the beasts of the earth, and becoming wiser than the fowls of Heaven. But like the wondrous little seed, from which arises the noblest plant or tree, that is presented to our view, this precious gift of Heaven, this rational understand- ing bestowed upon mpn by his beneficent Creator, in its beginning, and its earliest operations, is apparently- small, and almost imperreplihie ; but gradually unfolds its powers, and in time difsplays a degree of strength and comprehension astonishingly great. In another Tiew, also, like many of the most beautiful and valuable AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 13^5 producrions in the vegetable creation, it requires 1o be cultivated wriiL tbe greatest attention and care ; and its growth and improvement, may usuail/ be expected to appear, in a just proportion to the pro])er cultivation which if receives. This attention to the cultivation of the human mind, which seems to be capable of receiving iuip/overaent, still new, and ever increasing, ihroUfih all the periods of its immortal existence, was no doubt, a primary part of the delightful employment of man, in his pri'uiti^e Btate of innocence, which he was to pursue in connexion with the pleasing business of dressing and keeping the terrestrial paradise, in which he was placed. But since the deep injury which our nature has sufifered in i^s in- tellectual powers, as well as in its moral dif^positiotis, by the lamentable fall of man into his preseni state of depravity, and various misery and ruin ; the labour of acquiring any high degree of that improvement, of which the human mind remains still susceptible, has be- come as much more arduous, as it is now more nece3sa< ry. In the present shattered state of onr fallen nafure, the mind of man is found like a fine painting, or statue, deeply buried, and greatly defaced, under the ruins of a magnificent city, that has been overthrown by some awful volcanic eruption, or by the more destructive shock of a tremendous earthquake. To open its way to the bright regions of knowledge, through the dark and thick shades of ignorance, with which it is covered ; to raise it from the low pursuits of sensual pleasure, of sordid avarice, of noisy, vain and mischievous ambition, towards which it is now bent by its strongest natural propensities, to the nobler exercises of investigating truth, of discovering or applying the principles of use- ful science ; and of contemplating, in the works of Crea- 136 AN ADDRESS, DELirERED tion, the glory of the adorable Creator, in whom alj perfections centre, and who is rhe infinite source of all that is good, excellent, and lovely, throughout the boundless extent of the universe : this is truly an ardu- ous undertaking, and demands the most attentive appli- cation, and long continued labours. TJiey who would successfully pursue it to any considerable extent, must generally be able to command much time, free from the anxious care of providing the necessary supplies of lite ; an extensive collection of well-chosen books ; and an easy intercourse with the learned, the ingenious, and the wise. Now these are the advantages which riches are par- ticularly adapted to secure ; and if these advantages were duly appreciated, and improved by those who en- joy them, to what advances in ornamental and useful knowledge might they not attain ? According to the different degrees and propensities of genius, capacity, and taste, which they possess ; they might, with a philosophic eye, explore the various departments of the terrestrial creation, where new won- ders of Divine wisdom and bene6cence, are exhibited, in every object from the greatest to the most minute ; and from this inferior globe, they might ascend, " to walk the skies, "Where from yon arch, that infirjite of space With infinite of lucid orbs replete ; Which set the living firmament on fire At the first glance, in such an overwhelm Of wonderful, on roan's astonished sight Rushes Omnipotence ;" adapted to fill the soul with sentiments of the most pro- found adoration, and to raise it in strains of the most elevated praise, to « Him, by the word of whose mouth AT THB ORPHAN-HOUSE. 137 the heavens, and all the host of them were made, %vbo spake and it was done ; who commanded, and it stood fast.'^ Or, studying the constitution of their own nature, and tracing the springs of human actions, and the influ- ence of the various relatiosis in which men are connect- ed with each other ; and foilo.ving in these researches, with becoming humility and reverence, the guidance of the inspired word of God, which he has given us, to be as a lamp to our feet, and a light to our path ; they might, as legislators, or magistrates ; or as moralists and philanthropists, in a more private and less turbulent sphere, employ their enlarged knowledge of man and of the world, in framing or improving systems of laws, and enforcing the practice of virtues, which would be most conducive to the preservation and pro- motion of the order, the peace, and the interests of the community, in connexion with the greatest safety and prosperity of the individuals of which it is composed. Or, engaging in the worthy designs of unfolding, and pointing out the application of the principles of the me- chanic arts, and directing the eminently important la- bours of agriculture, that great earthly source from which riches are primarily dra^vn ; and founding theo- ries in these branches, upon judicious and decisive ex- periments, they might contribute largely to the increase of the most valuable productions of the earth, and of the desirable conveniencies of life. Thus they might become peculiarly instrumental, in providing a more comfortable subsistence for a greater number of tlie hu- man race, by which the strength of the nation, and the happiness of individuals, would be at once secured and advanced. 18 138 AN ADDRESS, DELIVERED When the advantages which riches afford, are thus improved, to the purposes of enriching the minds of those who enjoy them, with the most valuable acquisi- tions of literature and knowledge, and of qualifying them by these acquisitions, for becoming the instructors and guides of others in the most useful pursuits, and inter- esting concerns of life : wilh what becoming superiori- ty, do the possessors of riches appear ! How dignified their character : how elevated their pleasures : how beneficial their studies and employments ! But if genius should not prompt, nor inclination lead ; or if any particular circumstances should forbid the wealthy, thus to pursue the cultivation of their own minds, to any considerable extent ; Then another way is ever open, and on thisoccasioa presented, in the most forcible manner to our view and reflections, in which their riches may be improved high- ly to their own honor, and to the advancement of the interests of humanity, virtue and religion. You will readily perceive, that I now speak generally of the relief which should be extended to the poor of every description, who are unable to provide for them- selves ; and more particularly of that assistance, which should be afforded to the children of the poor, by se- curing to them a comfortable subsistence during their helpless years ; together with the benefits of such an education, as may qualify them for pursuing, with repu- tation and success, the common occupations of life, and enable them, at the same time, to read the sacred Scrip- tures, which shew to men the way of salvation, and re- Teal to them the knowledge of the things of their pres- ent and everlasting peace. AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 139 The Creator and Sovereign of the world, has been pleased to appoint to the children of men, different sta- tions and employments. Some of these require a high- er degree of mental capacity and improvement ; and others a larger measure of bodily strength and activity. He has also further distinguished one from another, by dividing to them different portions of the good things of this world. If all, duly observing and acknowledging his hand in this arrangement, would properly attend to the business of the respective stations which he has thus allotted to them, and faithfully occupy with the talents which he has committed to them, the combina- tion of these several classes, and of the labours of the whole, would produce one grand system of order, beau- ty, strength and happiness, which nothing but the all comprehensive mind of the onJy wise and good God, could have planned. Placed in such relations of mu- tual dependence, it is manifestly the interest, and ac- cordingly ought to be the concern, of every member of the community, that there should be no schism in the body ; but that all the members should have the same care one for another ; because when one member suf- fers, all the members suffer with it ; and when one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it. The rich, by a proper improvement of their wealth, furnishing suitable employment, and the means of ob- taining a livelihood to the poor, become their natural and constant benefactors ; while the poor, on the other hand, are the no less necessary and useful aids of the rich ; as it is by the labours of the poor, that the pos- sessions of the rich are acquired and preserved, and all the conveniencies and enjoyments attendant on a state •f affluence, are supplied. 140 AN ADDRESS, DELIVEREB But Ihe poor are not always able to sustain the la- bours, on which they may depend for their daily bread. Sickness, or the infirmities of age; or a variety of ad- verse occurrences, may disqualify them for pursuing their proper occupations. When these are suspended, ihe sources of their stated supplies fail. The situation, to which they are then reduced, may be more easily imagined, than described. Disease and pinching want united, form an accumulation of distress, which cannot fail to excite the sympathy of every feeling heart, and which demands the immediate charitable help of those by whom it can be afforded. The sufierings of such subjects of affliction, then, doubtless, call loudly upon the sons and daughters of afiSuence, to stretch forth the hand of compassion and beneficence, for the speedy re- moval of this burden, too heavy to be long borne ; or for the alleviation of its overwhelming pressure, when it cannot be entirely removed. And how greatly is the value of riches enhanced, as they enable their posses- sors to render such desirable and important offices of kindness and charity to the poor I But these sufferings of the poor, however immediate- ly distressing to themselves, are, in their usual conse- quences, still more calamitous to (heir children. Elxtreme poverty, when its influence is not effectual- ly counteracted by the cheering, animating, consolations and hopes of religion, tends to depress and debase the mind. While it denies, or contracts the ability, it of- ten extinguishes, or greatly abates, the disposition and desire of parents to provide for their children, such an education, as would enable them to rise to a better sit- uation in the world. This most important office of pa- rental love and care, is accordingly unhappily neglect- AT THE ORPHAN HOUSB. 141 ed by many in the lower ranks of society. Whether this neglect proceed from inevitable necessity, or from a criminal misapplication of the means in their power, the nnhappy consecpienres to their helpless children, and to society, are nearly the same. Well dispo^sed, as soQ]e may be in their straitened circumstances, to secure, by a proper education, the best portion which they can provide for their children, they may be prevented from accomplishing their anx- ious wishes, by the arresting hand of death. Their children are then thrown helpless orphans upon the world, to feel the deplorable effects of so early a priva- tionofthat tender, affectionate parental care, which would have strusfgled through many difficulties, to provide both for (heir bodily wants, and the cultivation of their minds. In these afflicting circumstances, shall they be left, abandoned as the forlorn outcasts of society, un- pitied, unrelieved ? All the tender sensibilities of the humane heart, and the benevolent spirit of Christianity, especially, revolt from the shocking thought, from the dismal prospect. But thus destitute and friendless, to whom shall these children of adversity and sorrow, look up for the com- passion and the assistance, to which their wants give them, a peculiar claim ? Does not the finger of Provi- dence, plainly point them to the rich, as their natural guardians ? And to them is not the voice of the com- mon Parent of the great family of mankind, particular- ly and persuasively addressed, in that very soleo^n and affectionate charge, ** Take these children, and bring them up for me." But to all who are disposed to comply with this call •f Divine Providence, and discharge this great debt of 142 AN ADDRESS, DELITERED humanitj, it may not be convenient, personally to un- dertake the arduous trust. And if this important bu- siness were left solely to the good will and efforts of in- dividuals, acting without concert or system, some would be found to bear more, and others less, than their due proportion of the burden ; according to the higher or lower measure of benevolence and zeal, by which they are actuated ; while many of the numerous class of the pitiable sufferers, whose case we are contemplating, might be wholly overlooked, and obtain no share of the sympathy and relief, to which they are, by their neces- sities, equally entitled. Hence result the propriety, and the utility of such an Institution as this ; wisely planned to combine, and by combining, to render more eflScacious, the benevo- lent views and exertions of individuals, in accomplish- ing one of the most interesting and important works of charity, that can be undertaken. This Asylum, then, may be justly regarded as a dis- tinguishing, and most honorable monument of the wis- dom, and public spirit of our city ; and of the discern- ing and well directed charity of the individuals, who have generously contributed to its establishment and success. And while it continues, by a most munificent hospitality, to provide every comfortable accommoda- tion, connected with seasonable instruction in some of the most necessary branches of learning, and the early acquisition of a most useful habit of industry, to a nu- merous class of children, who would otherwise want all these comforts and advantages ; the rich and the poor, may contemplate its establishment, and its growing prosperity, with almost equal solicitude and satisfac- tion. For by supporting this Institution^ and perpetR" AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 143 afing and extending its usefulness, the rich may, with the greatest ease and advantage, discharge a great debt of humanity, which they owe to one of the most help- less, pitiable, and interesting, classes of the poor ; while these again here meet their generous friends and bene- factors, supplying, in the most judicious and liberal manner, every present want, and opening to them the most cheering prospects into the future years of life; and perhaps, into the future ages of their immortal ex- istence, which were before overcast with clouds of the deepest gloom and despondence. To the promotion of the important objects which this excellent Institution embraces ; shall we not then feel ourselves impelled to improve a portion of the bounty of Heaven, which has been bestowed upon us, by all the powerful and persuasive motives, by which, in such cases, our hearts and our conduct ought to be influenced ? These motives are numerous and various. But it may suffice, at present, to suggest only two or three of primary weight and efficacy. Let it then be recollected, that we are only stewards of those riches, or of that portion of good things, with which we are favoured by a beneficent Providence. It is equally the dictate of reason and revelation, that " every good gift," every desirable advantage and comfort which we enjoy, " cometh down from the Father of lights." Nothing but the most pitiable ig- norance, or the most insufferable pride, can for a mo- ment hesitate in subscribing to the truth of what the language of Divine Inspiration every where teaches ; that all which is in heaven, and in the earth, belongeth to the great parent and sovereign of the universe ; that 144 AN ADDRESS, DELIVERED he reigneth over all in the exercise of an absolute do- minion ; that riches and honor come from him ; and that it is he, in short, who givelh us all things richly to en- joy- Has he " loaded us with his benefits," or has he supplied us wilh more than a sufSciencj to satisfy our own reasonable wants ? In what light are we to consid- er ; in what manner are we to improve, the bounty of our heavenly Parent's hand ? Are bis favours granted to us, as our absolute property ? And may we use them in all respects as we please ? Are they not, on the contrary, evidently committed to us as a trust, which we hold at the pleasure of their Author, and which we are bound to employ according to his will ? And has he not most clearly manifested it to be his will, that we should never forget to do good, according to the means with which he has furnished us, by communicating to others, whose necessities may be supplied from our abundance ? This he teaches us by the most conspicuous objects which he presents to our view in the heavens, wherein his glory is eminently displayed ; while we there be- hold the sun diffusing his cheering light and vivifying heat, over the various regions of our earth, which without his friendly beams, would be one vast, dreary, barren wilderness ; and while we there see the clouds pouring down the plentiful rain to refresh the thirsty ground, to revive the languishing plants, and replenish the failing fountains and streams of water. This he teaches us still more clearly by his own ex- ample ; while he opens continually his liberal hand, and satisfieth the desires of every living thing, with the good suited to their respective natures ^ and is con- AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 145 stantly doing good, more especially, to ibe children of men ; for whose souls he has provided (he inestima- ble blessings of redemption through the riches of his grace in his beloved Son ; and whose hearts he fills with joj and gladness, through the various excellent supplies with which they are furnished by his provi- dential care and bounty. And this he teaches us, in the plainest manner, by his written word which speaks a language the most un- equivocal and decisive ; " charging them that are rich in this world, to be rich in good works, ready to dis- tribute, willing to communicate,'* to those who need the supplies which they can conveniently spare. How important and precious is the trust thus com- mitted to the rich : And in a ready and faithful discharge of this, with what honour do they appear, as the ap- pointed dispensers of the bounty of theg|reat and beneficent Lord of heaven and earth, to their feUow- men ! ^ Let us also recollect ; that to our Lord we must give an account of our stewardship ; and that we must ex- pect to meet his displeasure or approbation, and to re- ceive from him an everlasting recompense, correspon- dent to the manner in which we have fulfilled the trust reposed in us. This, the suggestions of reason and conscience lead us to expect ; and what can be more worthy of the character of the great Proprietor and Ruler of the universe ; or what more wisely adapted to secure the fidelity, and cherish the benevolence of individuals, and to promote the order, harmony and happiness of society ? This we are accordingly taught among the fundamental doctrines of Divine Revelation, which 19 146 AJf ADDRESS, DELIVERED testifies, that our Lord will shortly come and reckon with us, and bring every work into judgment, whether it be good or bad, with a view to render unto all accord- ing to what they have done. You need not be here informed, as you well know, how awful is the prospect for eternity, which the in- spired volume opens to those, who penuriously hoard, or riotously waste, their Lord's goods, instead of ap- plying them to the worthy purposes for which they are intrusted Jo their care. But what on the other hand, can be better calculated to animate to unwearied constancy, and more abundant labours in well doing, than the view which the same word of truth and grace gives of the final happy lot of those, who on the principles of a truly christian faith and love, the only principles, from which any genuine good wo^ in man can flow, have acceptably " hon- ored the Lord with their substance ;" while it pre- sentS|ihem standing with hojy boldness before him in the day of judgment, and in the midst of the assembled universe of intelligent creatures, receiving from his gra- cious lips, that most honorable plaudit and w'elcomc sentence ; *' Well done good and faithful servant ; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things ; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord!" Who would not aspire to be found among the happy number, whom the King of dory, shall thus distinguish with the highest immortal honors, and thus receive to the fullness of everlasting joy in his presence ? Let this be our generous, our sacred ambition. Under the influence of that love to our brethren, which is produc- ed by the love of God our Saviour, let it be our care^ AT THE ORPFIAKT-HOUSE. 147 that according to our abiiilles, we may sow plendfuUy in all judicious charitable distributions, to the cliil- dren of want ; persuaded, that what we thus do, our Lord will kindly acknowledge as done to himself; and assured, that then, in due season, through the riches of his grace, we shall reap an abundant harvest of immor- tal glory and felicity in his heavenly kingdom. Let it be further considered, that while we are thus improving the means which we possess for contribut- ing to the relief and comfort of the indigent and afflict- ed classes of our fellow-mortals, we are at the same time providing most effectually for the promotion of our own present happiness. For the truth of ihis may I not with confidence ap- peal to all who have made the experiment ? Have not you, who have been particularly distinguished by the bounty of heaven, found " the luxury of doing good," the most exquisite that riches can supply ? When have you tasted the highest and sweetest satisfactions, that you have ever found in the use of your worldly possessions ? Has it not been in seasons when, in the exercise of a discreet and liberal charity, you have shared them with the poor, the destitute and distress- ed ? Has it not been, when you have sought, found and relieved, real, and perhaps more than conmton worth, fallen from the enjoyment of more prosperous days, into circumstances of difficulty and perplexity, and yet too diffident to obtrude itself on the notice of the public, and too modest even to accept of offered assistance, unless when afforded in a way the most ten- der and delicate ; when, in more ordinary cases you have " dealt your bread to the hungry, and clothed the naked ; when you have taken the poor that were cas^ 148 AN ADDRESS, DELIVERED out, info your houses ;" or have aided Ihe community in providing for them such an hospitable shelter, and such comfortable accommodations as this house affords ; or when you have furnished to the ignorant, the means of the most necessary and useful instruction, relative to the affairs of this life, and the concerns of their ever- lasting salvation ? In the performance of such worthy and generous deeds, have you not experienced pleasures heart-felt, and refined, far surpassing all that you have ever en- joyed in the entertainments of the most sumptuous table, or in the dazzling shew of the most splendid dress or equipage, or in the accommodations of the most magnificent and richly furnished mansion ? Are not the pleasures, which attend and follow such chari- table and beneficent services, the pleasures that al- ways bear a review ; and that are enjoyed over again with the sweetest sensations on every renewed recol- lection ? Do not these give a double relish to every other en- joyment of a state of aflSuence, which moderation and temperance allow, and which reason and religion ap- prove and sanction ? And does not the remembrance of these also sensibly tend to lighten the gloom, and sweeten the sorrows of the heaviest afflictions, when the common joys of the world are gone, driven like chaff before the stormy winds of a day of adversity ? When the greatest and worthiest of all the men of the east, in his day, was fallen from the highest pinnacle of worldly felicity, into the lowest depths of worldly trouble and sorrow, how soothing, how consoling must it have been to his deeply wounded and bleeding heart, to look back with an approving conscience up- AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 149 on his conduct in the time of his eminent prosperity ; to recollect how he had improved his vast possessions, his distinguishing honors, his great power and influ- ence, "in causing the widow's heart to sing for joy ; in shewing himself a father to the fatherless and the poor ; in becoming eyes to the blind, and feet to the lame ; and in delivering the oppressed, and defending the cause of those who had none to help them !" Is the joy of the most abundant harvest ; or is the rejoicing of men when they exult in the honors of victory, and divide the richest spoil of their conquered enemies, to be once compared with the satislactions and consola- tions which this great and good man must have felt, under the most distressing vicissitudes to which human life is liable, when he could thus reflect upon the wor- thy part which he had acted, in his brighter and more prosperous days, towards the necessitous and the af- flicted of every description, in consequence of which ** the blessings of many ready to perish had come up- on him,'* in the richest abundance, and with the kind- liest influence T If there be indeed pleasures worthy of the rational nature of man, and becoming the dignified character of christians, to be drawn from the use of the good things of the world, they must surely be such as these which are experienced in the performance of those beneficent actions, and in the steady pursuit of that course of well- doing, in which the children of men are called to shew themselves merciful, as their Father in heaven is mer- ciful, and to be followers of the Divine Redeemer, who went about continually doing good ; bestowing, with the most bountiful hand, blessings temporal and spiritu- al, upon the destitute, the afflicted, the penitent, the 150 AN ADDRESS, DBLIYERED disconsolate ; and who thus enforced by his most per- suasive example, what he taught his disciple? by Wig noblest precept, saying, " II is more blessed to give than to receiveJ'^ Is not the exercise of this beneficence forcibly recom- mended also, by the consideration, that instead of wast- ing, it promises rather an increase of, the resources by which it is supported ? In this case, I feel no hesitation in asserting, that constant observation and experience accord with, and coiifirm, the testimony of the sacred word of God, which declares ; that " there is that scattereth," meaning in charitable distributions, ** and yet in- creaseth ;" that '* the liberal soul deviseth liberal things, and by liberal things shall he stand;" and that when any give with a prudent generosity to the support and relief of suffering humanity, and the promotion of the designs and institutions of genuine benevolence, and real utility, it shall be given to them again, "good measure, pressed down, and running over," " Thus lie hath said, who cannot deceive us." And there are perhaps no assurances and promises, of the word of Gild, more evidently and remarkably fulfilled than these in the view of all who observe the course of Prov- idence. The most benevolent and charitable are not exempt- ed from the common adverse occurrences of life, which come alike to all ; *• excepting that they come with the evidences and blessings of a heavenly Father's love to his children j while, with all other things, they work for their sjood. But if those who have, according to their abilities, abounded in the works of mercy and charity, should ever be reduced to circumstances of want and AT THE ORPffAN-HOUSE, lol distress, Ihey may with peculiar confidence expect to experience from their fellow-men, the compassion and assistance, which they have rendered to others, in a similar situation ; or they may rest assured, that the Lord himself will, in a more immediate way, speedily deliver them, or graciously strengthen them, and sup- port them, in the time of their trouble. Has it been hitherto your happy lot, instead of ex- periencing those adverse changes to which all are liable^ to minister rather to the relief of those who are suffer- ing under them ? And have you not found, that through the manifest interpositions of God's good Providence, securing to you the favour and friendship of your fel- low-men, or in other ways remarkably directing your counsels and undertakings, and crowning your labours with success, he has abundantly verified to you his sacred word, by which,^ with the most condescending goodness, he represents those who consider, and pity? and relieve the poor, as lending to himself ; and has engaged to pay again to such, what they hive given ? Frequent and various are the occasions, on which you are called to help Ihe poor, whom you have al- ways with you ; and to give your aid to the support of institutions, more or less private or public, designed to minister to the relief of the necessitous and the suffer- ing, to advance the interests of literature and religion, and to promote the welfare and happiness of individu- als, and of society. Such occasions have, I doubt notj been regarded by you in one view, as desirable oppor- tunities offered, in the course of Divine Providence, for testifying your gratitude to the bountiful Author of all your enjoyments, and the generous zeal with which you are ready to do good to all men, to whoca 152 AN addreIs, DELIVERED the benign influence of your pbilanthropj, can be ex- tended. And have you had cause to apprehend, that your success was interrupted, or your prosperity im- paired, in consequence of what you thus dedicated to the honor of God, and the benefit of your fellow-men ? Hare you nor, on the contrary, found the blessing of the Lord visibly attending your lawful business and pursuits, and his bountiful hand, soon and signally, re- plenishing your treasures, and abundantly making up to you, what you had expended on proper principles, in such worthy and useful services ; and often by means entirely unforeseen, and from sources altogether unexpected ? The present occasion affords another interesting op- portunity for manifesting, that you have not become weary in well doing. You have planted here a most valuable tree in a fer- tile and well prepared soil. Distinguished by the favour of heaven shining upon it with the kindest beams, it has taken foot, and grown, and flourished, in a degree, perhaps, surpassing your first most sanguine expecta- tions. Under its wide-spreading shade, how many houseless wanderers, have been most comfortably sheltered from the consuming heat, and desolating storms of adversity ; and by its pleasant, nourishing fruits, how many feeble travellers, in some of the most rugged and uncertain paths of life, have been most sea- sonably cheered and refreshed ; when ready to faint and perish ! That it may still live and grow and flourish, and yield its precious fruits without diminution, and in yet richer abundance ; it must be still watered again and again, by the same fostering hand of charity, which has AT THE ORFHAN-KOUSE. 153 already done so much towards rearing it fo that degree of vigor and utility, to which it has aheady risen. And thus, I doubt not, you are on this occasion pre- pared again to contribute to its support, and to the in- crease of its strength and fruitfulness. In this persuasion I commend it, with the most pleas- ing confidence and animating hope, to your continued, kind attention and beneficent care ; and above all, to the protection and favour of his gracious Providence, by whose blessing it has been hitherto so signally prospered, and through whose good hand alone it can still be perpetuated, and carried forward to that full maturity, and extensive usefulness, to which it may yet be advanced. But before I conclude this address, I hope I may be indulged a little longer, by the candor and patience of this respectable assembly, while I attempt to sug- gest, in the plainest language, a few words of adujoui- tion and exhortation, to the children of this Asylum. My young friends. There are I trust a number of you, who are able to understand what I now wish to say to you. Hear me then, with attention ; and may the Lord graciously dispose your hearts to feel and improve what you hear. Many of you are orphan children, deprived, at a time whea you were least capable of taking care of your- selves, of the parents who might naturally have been expected to be yourbest earthly friends. Others of you, though not thus bereaved of your parents, were, while left with them, subjected to so many disadvantages, that you seemed (o have no good reason to hope, that you would ever be well provided for in the things of this world, or trained up in the way which leads to the feappiness of the life to come. 20 151 AN ADDRESS, DELIVERED But when you were in these unhappy circumsfanceEf^ your Heavenly Father, who is equally the Maker of the rich and the poor, and wilh whom there is no re- spect of persons, was pleased to pity you, and to shew yoo mercy. Having the hearts of all men in his hands, he inclined the hearts of those wlio were able to help you, (o view your case with the feelings of a tender compassion, and to build for you, and such as you arc, Ih:^ spacious and excellent house, where, dur- ing the most help.-ess years of your life, you are provid- ed with comfortable lodging, food and clothing, and are committed to the direction of well quali6ed governors and teachers. Under their care you are kept out of the •way of many sins and temptations, which might, in other circumstances, haTC ruined you in body and soul, and made you miserable m time and through eternity ; and by their instructions you may obtain such an education, as "will prepare you for learning and pnrsuing, in due time, some honest trade or business, by which you may here- after live reputably and comfortably in the world. But what you should reckon among the greatest advantages of your present situation, is, that you aie here particu- larly taught to read the Bible, the best book in the "world, it having been written by wise and good men, in obedience to the command of God, and by the inspira- tion of the Holy Spirit. By reading and understand- ing this book, you may learn to know the God who made you ; and the Saviour who died to redeem you fro »i sin and from everlasting misery ; and what you must do ta please and honor your Maker and Redeemer in this •world, and to obtain eternal life and blessedness witfe him in the world to come. AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 155 Think of these things, and consider how thankful you ought lo be to ihe good friends who have gener- ously taken so niuch care, and been at so great an ex- pense, for jour present and eternal welfare ; and how thankful especially you ought to be, to the great and blessed God, who disposes and enables these friends to shew you so much kindness, and whose mercies to you are so many and so great. Are your youthful hearts tenderly affected, when you think how much better and more desirable your situation is here, than that of thousands of other poor children in the world ? And are you ready to say, How shall we shew our gratitude, to our kind benefac- tors, who have done, and who are still doing so much for our comfort and benefit ? Let me tell you ; that the most pleasing return which you can make to them, will be, to give them the satis- faction of seeing you concerned and endeavouring io do well for yourselves. Greatly indeed would they be disappointed and grieved, if they should see you turn out thoughtless, wicked, and useless creatures, determined to go on in the broad road of vice and folly, which leads down to everlasting death and destruction. But how great will be the pleasure and joy of their hearts, if they see you, by your general good beha- viour, and especially by a serious attention to the du- ties of religion and morality, promising fair to act your part well in the stations in which Providence may place you in this world, and to secure your interest in a bet- ter and more enduring inheritance in heaven, than the richest can possess on earth. Would you also know what you shall render to the Jjord, the God of your mercies, for delivering you from 15S AN ADDRESS, DELIVERED the many evils lo which yon were lately exposed, and favouring you wilh the many and great advan- tages, which you here enjoy ? Let me then remind you, that you ought to feel j^our hearts engaged, by all his goodness and mercy which you have experienced ; to remember your Creator and Redeemer in the days of your youth ; to remem- ber him, so as to fear and love him, to devote your- selves to his service, and to seek your happiness in his favour, even now in the morning of your days. This is certainly your most reasonable duty, which you owe to your Heavenly Father, and blessed Saviour. If you desire thus to fear and love him, and begin thus early to seek and serve him, you may well hope that he will love you ; that you will find him your best friend, and Ihat he will delight to bless you, and re- joice over you in doing you good. Seek him then with all your hearts, while he may be found. Pray earnestly, every day, to your Father in heaven, in the name of Jesus your Redeemer, for his Holy Spirit, which he is most ready to give to them who ask him, that you may be taught by Him to know the Lord as your God, and enabled to believe in Christ the Son of God as your Saviour ; and that you may be led and kept in the peaceful, pleasant ways of his holy religion, to bis heavenly kingdom. If you thus pray, the Lord will hear you, and grant you the mercy and grace which you seek, and bless you exceedingly abundantly above ail that you can ask or think. The great Lord of heaven and earth, will then be your Father, and will be unspeakably better to you, than the richest and best parents on earth can be te AT THE ORPHAN-HOUSE. 157 their belored children. And then also, the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ, who is pailicularly pleas- ed lo see little children coming to him, who takes them with the greatest tenderness into the armi of his mercj, and into the bosom of his love, and delights to bless them and make them happy forever ; who, for the sake of making poor sinners rich in the inheriiance of his heavenly kingdom, once condescended to become so poor on earth, that he had not a place of comfortable lodii^ing where he might lay his head to rest ; this great and gracious and blessed Redeemer, will be your Saviour and your friend, will provide in the best man- ner for all your wants, guide you in the right way, make all things work for your good, while you live in this world, and at last when you die, will receive you lo behold his glory in heaven, and to enjoy with him all the rich and precious blessings of his grace and love, through all the ages of eternity. Would you, in short, desire to enjoy the favour of God and men ; and that it may be well with you both now and forever. Let it then be your constant care and endeavour, to behave yourselves in all respects suitably to the station in which you are here placed, and as worthy of the priviledges whichyoubere enjoy. Observe carefully the rules and orders made for the , government of your conduct while you remain inhabi- tants of this house. Respect, honor, and pray for, all who have the care of you, and are studying to make your situation com- fortable, and to promote your present and everlasting welfare. Attend to the good instructions of your teachers, and especially to what you may learn by reading the 158 AN ADDRESS, DELIVERED, ScC. word of God, concerning your duty to Him, to your- selves, and lo all around you. Never let the language of profane cursing and svTear- ing, of lying or rudeness, or any other wicked and shameful words, be heard from your lips. Live in peace, love, and friendship with each other, as it becomes the children of one family, sharing to- gether in the same goodness and mercy of the Lord, and in the same favour and bounty of the public, by which you have been kindly adopted. Andletyoar humble, modest, orderly conduct, at all times and in every place, shew that you are evidently improved in your dispositions and manners, by the ad- vantages which you enjoy in this happy habitation of charity, this desirable Asylum of the orphan, and of the children of want and affliction. Remember and do these things ; And may that gracious God, who is the Father of the fatherless, and who de- livereth the poor, and setteth them on high from afflic- tion, be pleased to bless you, and to keep you, and to make you truly good, useful and happy in this life ; and to grant, that though you should continue among the poor of this world, you may become rich in faith, and heirs of the heavenly kingdom, which he has promised to them that love him. l-HE HOUSE OF THE LORD FILLED WITH HIS GLORY* tT'^4 A SERMON, SELIVEREB ON THE OCCASION OF OPENING FOR PUBLIC WORSHI?^ THE NEW CIRCULAR EDIFICE, ON MEETING STREET, BUILT FOR THE SERVICE OF GOD BY THB INDEPENDENT, OR CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, IN CHARLESTON S. CAROLINA. ON THB lord's DAT, IN THE AFTERNDOWj MAY 35, 1806. Charleston, May 26th, 1806. At a church meeting this dav held in the Circular (.'hurch, on Meeting Street. On motion seconded, it was resolved, that the thanks of the Church be presented to the two Pastors, the Rev. Doctors Hollinshead and Keith, for their suitable dis- courses, delivered yesterday on the opening of this circular new build- ing. And that they be requested to furnish copies of the same, in ordei' that they may be printed ; and that they also be requested to prepare an historic sketch of the Church, from its origin to the present time, to be prefixed to them ; and also historical sketches of all its Ministers, as far as the same can be obtained from our elder Members, and other sources of authentic information. GEORGE SMITH, Sec'y. Extract from the Minutes. Neither of these Discourses was published, (fhough the one which follows, was prepared for the press by its Author) as the " historical sketches" requested, were not furnished to accompany them. This la- bour has since been performed by the late dr david ramsay, one of the most intelligent, active and useful members of this Church and Congregation, whose talents, information, and industry, qualified hiia eminently to execute such a work. Editor. SERMON. HAGGAI II. i. AND I -Wn.L SHAKE ALL NATIONS, AND THE BESlRE OF AtL NATIONS SHALL COME : AND I WILL FILL THIS HOUSE WITH GLORY, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS. J- o see the house in which we are now assembled, filled with the glory of the Lord, would certainly fill the heart of every genuine worshipper in it, with amosi peculiar joy. For this every friend of Zion among us, may well be expected, humbly and devoutly to pray. And if their prayers, in respect to this, should be graciously an- swered, they would doubtless consider themselves as favoured with the most desirable ground for fervent thanksgiving and praise. Without this, indeed, the most commodious, elegant, and magnificent edifice, erected for the worship of God, would remain destitute of that distinction, which would constitute its highest honor, its only real value ; while the simplest struc- ture, thus distinguished, would be truly honorable and amiable in the view of all who prefer the tokens of the Lord's presence and favour, to the most admired display of human art, or of worldly pomp and splendour. In the earlier ages of the world, it does not appear, that the Lord had any other temples prepared for his worship, than the pure and pious hearts of those whom his own grace had prepared " to worship him in spirit 21 162 SERMON DELITFRED AT THl. and in truth ;" and their sacrifices, prayers, and praises, \rere offered to him in the open air ; sometin es under the refreshing; shade of a tree* or wifhin the agreeable covert of a srove, ivhere the scene, naturally tranquil and solemn, would invite to the exercises of devotion. In these circurnstances was the worship of God attend- ed by Adam, Abel, Enoch, Noah, and all the pious fathers, who lived before the flood ; by Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, nni\ his sons, the twelve patriarchs ; and by all who walked with God, in succeeding ages, until the lime of the sojourning of the Israelites in the wilder- ness, on their way from Egypt to the promised land. During that period, the chosen people of God were formed into a more regular church state, under the cer- emonial dispensation, established by the ministry of Moses. Then the Lord was pleased to order the con- struction of a moveable Tabernacle, suited to the cir- cumstances of the people, while sojourning in tents. This Tabernacle, in its various parts, and with its pecu- liar furniture, was designed and adapted to represent the present condition of the church in the world, as fa- voured with the means of redemption and grace ; yet continuing imperfect, subject to many vicissitudes, and destined to pass through the humiliating scene of dis- solution in the hour of death, to the full perfection and eternal glory of the heavenly state. Within this Tabernacle, among other articles appro- priated to the service of God, and typical of spiritual things, the «acred Ark, containing the covenant of God, Tvas deposited : while above it rested the cloud of glorv, which was the striking and impressive symbol of the Divine presence, with which it was honored. To this, as the chosen and consecrated habitation of the OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 163 God of Israel, were the people required to resort, when ihey held their solemn assemblies ; and here the prin- cipal sacred services, which constituted their public worship, were ordered to be performed. After the settlerijent of Israel in the land of Canaan, this venerable Tabernacle was, in process of time, suc- ceeded bj, and gave place to, the celebrated Temple, built by Solomon, about one thousand years before the Christian era. As this temple was built according; to a pattern s^iven by the Spirit of God to David, and by him delivered to his son Solomon ; as it was construct- ed with the most substanlial and costly materials, and finished wilh the most exquisite taste and workman- ship ; as it contained the ancient Tabernacle, with all its sacred furniture, and was distinguished by similar tokens of the Divine presence and favour ; and as it was a type of the incarnate Redeemer, it was unques- tionably the most remarkable and glorious edifice, ever erected by the hands of men. This magnificent Tem- ple, having stood about four hundred years, was at length, on account of the sins of ihe people, given into the hands of their enemies, the Chaldeans : b;^ them it was stripped of all its splendid ornaments and rich treasures, and then reduced to a pile of melancholy ruins : while the nation, whose pride and boast it had been, were led away to sufterthe calamities of a seven- ty years captivity in Babylon. On the restoration of the Jews, at the end of that term, to their own land, the rebuilding of their Temple was undertaken ; and in the midst of many difficulties, and great opposition from hostile neighbours, it was carried on during the space of about twenty years, till it was at length completed, and dedicated to the ser- Tice of God. 164 SERMON DELIVERED AT THE This second Temple was, in many respects, greatly inferior to the^rs^ Hence, when the foundation of it was laid, many, on this interesting occasion, shouted aloud for joy ; there were many, on the other hand, of the priests and the Levites, and chief of the fathers that were ancient men, and had seen the first house, "who wept with a loud voice, while they perceived how far this house would probably fall short of the former, in beauty and grandeur. Thus they discouraged the people, in the arduous work which they had begun ; and it appears that the building proceeded heavily and slowly, and was attended with frequent interruptions^ and much unnecessary delay. In these circumstances the prophet Haggai, by a Divine commission, was sent fo them for the purposes of reproving their negligence, and animating them in their undertaking. lie accordingly reminded them, that, on account of their suffering " the house of the Lord to lie waste, while they dwelt at ease in their own ceil- ed houses," the Lord had visited them wiih unfavoura- ble seasons, and blasted their hopes from the fruits of the earth. Then with a view to excite them to resume and prosecute the work wilh alacrity and diligence, he assures them, that in this case, "the Lord would be with them, as he had been with their forefathers," to pros- per and to bless them ; and that he would take pleasure, and be glorified, in the house which they should build. To obviate the discouragement which they felt from the consideration, that this house must appear as noth- ing, in comparison, in the eyes of those whohad seen the first house in its glory, he directs their views to an event in its nature, the most important and interesting that ever took pjace in the world ; an event which OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 165 would occur, during the existence of this second Tem- ple, and which would give a greater glory to Ihis latter house, than any which belonged to the former. For to this honse, the long expected Messiah would come r even that Divine Saviour, who is described as " th( Desire of all nations," because in hioa all the nation.' of the earth were to be blessed, and to him would they all, in due time, look with ardent desire, as their conso- lation and hope, their salvation and glory. His coming, they are encouraged to expect, " in a little while ;" within a short space of time, compared with the years that had passed ; the centuries that had rolled away, since the first promise of salvation in him to fallen man. In this view, soon would that " shaking of the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land, and of all the nations," take place, which signified those great politi- cal convulsions and revolutions that would terminate in the extension and establiishment of the Koman empire over the principal nations, commonly called the whole world ; and more especially, that great change in the Jewish church and state, which would include the ab- rogation of their ritual law, and the introduction of the Christian dispensation, that was to endure to the end of the world. Then, in the fulness of the time appoint- ed, and in the circumstances ordained to attend his ap- pearance in the world, the Messiah would come to this second Temple, and by his presence, fill that house with a glory far surpassing all the external magnificence and splendour, by which the first Temple was distin- guished. This promise, made more than five hundred years be- fore the coming of Christ in the flesh, was in its time fulfilled ; when, as the Apostle testifies, " The Word was 166 SERMON DELIVERED AT THE made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glo- ry, the glory of the only begotten of the Fatuer, lull of grace and truth." Then was this promise redlized in that house, which was not long afterwards compieiely destroyed and laid waste, together with the city ot Je- rusalem, in which it stood. Then did the sceptre of government totally depart from J«idah, and the Jew- ish nation, divested of the high honor and ©acreu privi- leges, which belong to the church of God, were scatter- ed abroad among all the other nations of the earth ; and in all places of their dispersion, they have, for more than seventeen centuries, continued under those awful frowns of heaven, which visibly and strongly mark their peculiar guilt, in rejecting their Messiah, and cru- cifying the Saviour of the world ; and from which they will not be delivered, " till they shall return and seek the Lord and David their king, and shall fear the Lord and his goodness in the latter days.'' Since that memorable period, the Temple of the Lord has been in every place, where the exalted Re- deemer, for whom the pious formerly " waited, as the consolation and glory of Israel," and who was *' set to be a light of the Gentiles, that he might be for salva* lion to the ends of the earth," finds any number, even two or three of the church, which he has bought with bis blood, gathered together in his name, for the pur- poses of waiting upon him in the ordinances of his grace, and of offering the homage of their worship, to God in him, according to the rules of his word. Considering then the promise in our teyii, in the true spirit of it, as applicable to every place in which the disciples and friends of Christ are assembled, and en- gaged in the exercisei of Christian worship ; may we OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 167 not now cherish the pleasing, animating hope, that Ihis house, which we have prepared for the worship of our God and Saviour, and which we are this day dedicat- ing to his holy service, may he filled with his glory 7 The observations which have been already suggest- ed, will lead us to consider the presence of the Lord, as constitutina; the clory wi»h which we should desire to see the house of his worship filled. That onr desire of seeing this, may be the more ra- tional, pure, and animated, by being directed to its proper object : I shall now endeavour to shew, I. What we are to understand by the presence of the Lord, in ence o^ Christ the Lord, that the faith and hope of the Jews were directed in our ie\i, when it was promised, that the Temple which they were then building, should be filled with his glory. Conformably to this idea, it is of those who constitute his church, which he came to redeem and sanctify, to establish and to build up in the world, that Christ himself speaks, when he says, " Wherever two or three are gathered to- gether in my name, there am I in the midst of them :" and when, oq another o casion, t ) his chosen minister*?, whom he gave to his church for its edification, he de- livered that most comprehensive and encouraging * Exod. XX. 24. + Col. iL y. 23 170 SERMON DELIVERED AT THE promise, saying, " Lo ! / am with ;} ou always, even unto the end of the world. "^ How much is it to be desired, that this glorious Lord and Saviour of the church, may be graciously- present with us, whenever we come together, with the pious design of joining in the exercises of Divine wor- ship in this house ! And if there be found among us, a number of real be- lievers, although not exceeding two or three, who, on the occasions of their assembling here, sincerely and earnestly desire to be thus favoured with the presence of their Lord, they may with humble confidence ex- pect, that he will come, and fill this house with his glo- ry. Let us now proceed to consider, II. In what respects the presence of the Lord, may be expected to fill the house of his worship with glory. The presence of the Lord fills the house of his wor- ship with glory, I. As in the enjoyment of his presence his worship- pers are led to behold and contemplate, with peculiar satisfaction, the glory of his infinite perfections, dis- played in the salvation of fallen man. To those who are prepared to " worship the Father in Spirit and in truth," the infinite excellencies of the Divine Nature are manifested through Jesus Christ, in a manner the most pleasing and attractive. The Son of God, our Lord Jesus Christ, is " the brightness of the Father's glory, and the express image of his person."! Being one with the Father and the Holy Spirit, he possesses equally every perfection and glory of Deity. Hence it is said, that " the name • Mat- XTiii. 20 j Mat. xxviii, 20. f Heb. i. 3. OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 171 of God is in him ;"=^ and he is called the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords." He is declared, also, to be " God over all, blessed for- ever."t But in his person, the nature of man, in order to the accomplishment of the great work of man's redemption, was assumed into a most mysterious and wonderful union wi(h the nature of God ; and in Him the bright perfections of Deity are presented to our minds through the softening reil of humanity, so blended, as it were with the created excellencies of human nature, that in Him we may contemplate the glory of God, not only without being overwhelmed with the view, but with the sweetest and highest satisfaction of soul. As his name is called Immanuel, because he is ** God with us," even " God manifest in the flesh :" so " they who see him," with the eye of faith, " see the Father also." J They see the Father, not in his absolute character of in- finite power, holiness, justice and truth, appearing as *' a consuming fire," to the guilty sons of men ; but as " the Father of mercies, and the God of all grace ;" as the God whose nature is " Love." While in Christ they behold the mercy and truth of God met together, and righteousness and peace embrac- ing each other,|| in the great design of recovering fallen man from sin and condemnation, to holiness and peace with God ; while in this adorable Mediator of the new covenant, they behold the amazing condescensions and displays of love, of love Divine, of love surpassing all expression, and exceeding all comprehension ; love * Exod. xxiii. 21. f 1 Tim. 6. 15 ; Rom. ix. 5. ^ John xiv. 9. II Psalm Ixxxv. 10. 172 SERMON DELITEBED AT THE providing a sacrifice of infinite value and efficacy for the expiation of human guilt, and the satisfaction of Divine jusfice; love reconciling sinners, chargeable with the most iinprovoked rebellion, and the most pro- voking criaies, to their offended Creator and Sover- eign ; love, fiom eternity embracing the most unworthy, and raising the most vile and wretched from the depths of pollution and misery, and the borders of hell and despair, to the high privileges of the sons of God, on earth, and to thrones of glory, in his presence, in Heav- en ; I hey are, b}^ the constraining influence of this great and wonderful love of God, led to say wilh the Apos- tle, surely "God is love. "^ And when the Son of God, in whom the love of God thus shines, in all its own attractive splendours, vouchsafes, according to his pjomise, to be in the midst of those who are met to- gether in his name, for the purposes of religious wor- ship, he fills the place in which they are assembled with glory, by a most pleasing display of the glory of God, which thus shines in his face. Hence they are led to pronounce a day in his courts, where he thus manifests himself, to those who humbly and devoutly wait upon bim, better than a thousand spent in the ordinary occu- pations and enjoyments of life. n. The presence of the Lord fills his house with glo- ry, as it gives efficacy and success to the means of grace dispensed in it, by which his name is eminently glorified. When a house is built for the Lord, and dedicated to him, it is to be considered as solemnly set apart to the special purpose of accomroodatins: his worship- pers in their attendance upon the ordinances of his • John ir. 8. OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. ITS grace, and those exercises of devotion, which he has appoinled, as (he necessary and the best means for pro- moting the salvation of sinners, and the edification of his people. And if in compliance with this sacred and important design, it be religiously improved, and the worship of God be devoutly attended in it, and faith- fully maintained on the principles, and according to the rules, of his word, it may then, with propriety, be call- ed, The House of the Lord ; and he will assuredly honor it with his presence, and the manifestations of his glory. In such an house " he records his name," while there he appoints those ordinances to be observed, which bear witness to their Divine Author, especially, as they display the greatness of his love, and the riches of his grace ; and to those, who in the place where his name is thus recorded, humbly wait upon him in the ex»T- cise of faith and hope, and with the temper of love and obedience, he will come and bless them. This he will do by the communication of his Spirit, to make these ordinances effectual to the promotion of their present spiritual improvement, and of their future ever- lasting happiness. Thus will they be most essentially benefitted, and his name be eminently glorified. The House of the Lord is designed to be an *' House of prayer for all people. ""^ There his worshippers are allowed and called " by prayer and supplication, with thanksgivings, to make known their requests," for themselves and each other, and for all men. And when the Lord is present in his house, he pours out upon those who humbly and devoutly wait upon him, " the Spirit of grace and supplications."! And to ^ Isaiah Ivi. 7. f Zech. xii, 1«. 174 SERMON DELIVERED AT THE their prayers, thus inspired by bis Spirit, offered up according to the direcfions of bis word, through the mediation of hli^ Son, " Ee who heareth prayer," will vouchsafe a li^jfening ear ; and in answering the prayer cf faith, he will shew himself " able and willing to do exceeding abiindanlly, above all that they can ask or think, "^ There» also, offering their sacrifices of.thanks- giving to his name, with that affecting view of his glo- rious perfections and wonderful works, and of his innu- merable and most precious benefits, temporal and spir- itual, which they have experienced, or for which they are still allowed to hope, and with that lively impres- sion of ^he manifold, sacred, and tender obligations by which they are bound, He graciously regards and ac- cepts of " those offerings of their praise, as glorifying him," and he gives them more clear, enlarged, elevated and delightful views of the glories which compose his great name, of the excellencies of his character, of the works and benefits of his hand ; and of that peculiar " goodness of his House, which eminently constitutes the glory with which he fills the place of his worship, and in which his sincere worshippers rejoice with the highest satisfaction and delight. ^Another object for which we are to assemble in the house of the Lord, is to attend on the ministry of his word. The word of the Lord, contained in the sacred volumes of the Old and New Testaments, was originally spoken and written " by holy men, as they were mov- ed by the Holy Ghost ;" and " the sacred Scriptures, thus given by inspiration of God, are able, are designed and adapted, to make men wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus ; and to be profitable for * Ephes. iii. 20. OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 1?5 doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness ; that the people of God may be thorough- ly furnished unto all good works."* But that the Scriptures, may the better serve these important pur- poses, the Lord, in his infinite wisdom and grace, has set apart in his church, an order of men, under the character of his ministers, to preach the word, to declare and explain the truths contained in it, and to present them in the most impressive and persuasive ^ man- ner, to the minds of their hearers. When he thus com- mits the ministry of the word to those whom he has chosen, called and qualified by his grace to be his am- bassadors ; he may be expected to furnish them from time to time with a " supply of his Spirit,'^ propor- tioned to their work and their wants ; and having " this sufficiency derived from God, who makes them able ministers of the New Testament, they are prepared to fulfil their sacred trust, and arduous office, so as " to save themselves and those who hear them."f And when, with the spirit of wisdom, fidelity, 2eal> and tenderness, becoming their office and station in the church, they " rightly divide the word of truth, keep- ingbacknothingthat may beprofitableto their hearers j" then is the hand of the Lord usually seen to be " with them ;" and his Spirit working by the word, makes it visibly " the power of God to salvation," to some, at least, of those who hear it, and happily conducive, in the case of those who thus feel its saving power, to their advancement in the life of grace, in the knowl- edge of their Lord and Saviour, and conformity to his example, and in the faith, the hope, and the consola- tions of his gospel. In these admirable and excellent • 2 Tim. iii. 13^17. f 2 Cor. iii. 5, 6 ; 1 Tim, h. 16. }T6 SERMON DELITERED AT THE effects of the ministry of his word, honored with his special presence and blessing, how pleasing and desira- ble are the displays of the glory of the Lord, with which he fills the Temple of his grace ! And when, to the preaching of the word, is added the administration of those holy ordinances, Baptism and the Lord's Supper, which our Lord has instituted, as the external sacred seals of the covenant of which he is the blessed Mediator ; as the solemn memorials of his everlasting love, and of the eternal redemption procured by his death, and as the affecting, assuring pledges of his constant, gracious presence with " his church, which he has bought with his blood," which he sanctifies by his Spirit, and which, by his ordinan- ces'in his earthly sanctuary, he prepares and trains up for the inheritance and enjoyment of his everlasting kingdom of glory ; how interesting and delightful are the displays of his glory, which we are called to con- template, in these institutions of his house! And how^ ardent should be the desires, and how high the satis- faction, of his people, to see his power and glory, thus displayed in the sanctuary of their Saviour and their God ! IIL The presence of the Lord fills the house or place of his worship with glory, as it affords, in the ex- ercises of his worship, a delightful foretaste and antici- pation of the glory of the heavenly state. A Christian assembly seriously and devoutly em- ployed in the proper business of the sanctuary, exhib- its perhaps the best image of heaven, that can be pre- sented to our view on earth. Gathered together, in the name of their Lord, and favoured with hi? special presence, while his Spirit descends upon ihem, to ena- OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH, Iff ble them to perform the holy services in which they are engaged with united hearls, and with devout and fervent affections, they make a near and delightful ap- proach to God, and enter into the spirit of the worship and the joys of the church triumphant in heaven. When the Lord, by an abundant supply of his Spirit, richly furnishes his ministers with grace and gifts, so that they appear to be themselves clothed with righte- ousness and salvation, while proclaiming salvation in the blood of the Lamb, to their fellow-men ; we are led by this view of his ambassadors, acting by his au- thority and pleading in his name, to contemplate the Redeemer himself, as from his heavenly throne, send- ing his angels to testify of his glory, and of his grace to the churches, and condescending to persuade those who hear the \oice of his mercy and love, to come unto him, that they may have life, and every one that is a thirst, and that is willing to come and take of the waters of life freely. Does the gospel, preached in its purity, come to those to whom it is sent, *' not in word only, but in power," so that through the Holy Ghost it proves ef- fectual to awaken those who were before sleeping se- curely in a state of sin and condemnation ? Do we, in consequence, observe the anxious eye, and perhaps the starting tear, betraying the painful emotions of an heart deeply impressed with a sense of guilt, an apprehen- sion of danger, and a solicitude to learn the way of sal- vation ? We then see the hopeful indications of immor- tal souls, excited to fly from the wrath to come, and re- solved to enter upon, and to pursue, the way which leadetb to life ; and we begin to feel a measure of " the joy that is in heaven over every sinner that repentelh." 2;; n'o SERMON DELIVERED AT THK When we see those, lo whom the gospel, accompa- nied by the enlightening, renovating enei2;y of ihe Ho- ly Spirit, has proved ihe power of God lo their salva- tion, manifesting their experience of this salvation, in the humility and piety, the purity, righteousnesSf and charily of the christia'« leniper and character ; when in the house of the liord, especially we see the spirit of de\o(ion which animates the truly pious, in the sweet- ly solemn air which sits on their countenances; when we see their eyes sometimes nielling into ihe tenderest expressions of the gratitude and atFection, which they feel towards (he God of their mercie:^, and of their sal- vation ; and of the compassion and lo\e for their par- ticular friends, and for the multiludes around them, whom they ardenily desire tobe partakers wirh them of ihe same blessings of the Divine favour; and when in the face irradiated wilh a kind of heavenly glory, of which, like Moses, they are not themsehes aware, we see the mild beamings of faith and hope, of peace and joy. elevating Ihe soul above all the scenes, the cares, the pleasures of earth and time, to that blessed world, where with their God and Sa\ iour, and all the innumer- able coaipany of holy angels, and of the spirits of the just made perfect, they expect to ascend and dwell, and rejoice and triumph fore\ er : when we see these ap- pearances of the presence of the Lord in the midst of his worshipping people, and of his Spirit animating their hearts, in the holy services in which they are engaged in his house, and raising their soids into a near assimi- lation to the company, to the en)ployments, and to the joys of hea> en ; and when we ourselves cordially har- monize with such worshippers in their heavenly views and feelings ; then do we, in an high degree, perceive OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 179 the house of our holj solemnities filled with the glory of the Lord. Then are we, in the desire and prospect of joining, ere long, in the nobler worship in which the church is employed before the throne in heaven, led to rejoice with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. Of the place thus favoured with the presence, and filled with the glory of the Lord, we may well say with Jacob, when in di\ ine vision he beheld a ladder set upon the earth, and the top of it reaching to heaven, and the angels of God ascending and descending on it ; *'How awful is this place ! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the sjate of heaven !*'* Am\ with the dis- ciples, when they beheld our Lord transfigured before them, and his face did shine as the sun, and his rai- ment was white as the light, and Moses and Elias ap- peared talking with him, we may say " It is good to be here !" It is good indeed to behold the glory of our Lord here : and this should we ardently desire to see, as often as we come up to the house of the Lord our God. But as here we cannot long abide, our views and de- sires, by what we here behold and enjoy, should be raised to that bright world, in which we hope " to see our Lord, as we are seen of him,'* and with unspeaka- able triumph and transport, to behold his glory forever. IMPROVEMENT. L Let us, with adoring hearts, recollect and consid- er the grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has condescended to purchase and to sanctify to him- * Genesis xxviii. 17. 180 8ERMOX DELIVERED AT THE self, a church among men ; and now allows us to hope Ihat he will fill Ihis house, which we have prepared for Ills service, with his glory. This adorable God-man, in the character of the Re- deemer of the world, was announced lo our first parents, immediately afler their unhappy fall, in that most gra- cious and comprehensive promise ; " the seed of the woman, shall bruise the serpent's head;" shall over- come Ihe devil, destroy his works, and restore mulli- tudesof his miserable captives, " to the glorious liberly of the children of God." In this view, he was promis- ed again and again ; and slill more plainly and fully fjom time to time, in the days of the patriarchs. He •was then exhibited, in a peculiarly instructive and im- pressive manner, in the sacrifices and types of the Mo- saic dispensation. In succeeding times, his character, his coming and his works ; and the blessings of his sal- vation were predicted by I he prophets, through the in- spiration of the Holy Spirit, in a light more clear, and in terms more explicit, until the Spirit of prophesy, be- gan to assume Ihe lanajuage of history itself, in speaking of *' the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow." At length, in "the fulness of the time," appointed and foretold. He, who in the beginning was with God, and was God ; He by whom all things were made, and by whom they are upheld and governed ; He, who is the Prince of life, and the Lord of glory, came down to our earth, " in the likeness of men, and in the form of a servant ;" yet " manifesting forth his glory, the glory of the only begotten Son of God !" He came to that second temple, to which the promise was made, that " the glory of this latter house should be greater OPENING OF THE NEW CHtJRCH. 181 than that of the former," because it should be filltd with the glory of his presence, in our naluie. He came '* lo give ihe knowledge of salvation to his peo- ple, by the remission ot sins, through the tender mercy oi our God ;" he came to pour out his blood on the cross, while " he oftered himself, through the Eternal Spuit, without spot to God, that he might purge our conscience from dead works, to serve the living God." And having ** suffered for our sins, the Just for the un- just," he rose for our justification, and ascended to the right hand of the Majesty on high, where '* he, who was dead, is now alive, and liveth forever more," exalt- ed as " Head over all things to the Church." The (Jhurch he so loved, as to give himself for it : this he bought with his own most precious blood, and this he hon- ors with his constant, gracious presence ; while by the communication of his Spiri*, he still continues with his ministers and his people ; and especially comes to them, and meets with them, and favours them with the manifestations of his glor}-, in everj place where they are assembled for his worship, sincerely desirous of drawing near to him, and humbly waiting for his bles- sing in the ordinances of his gospel. Are there, in the congregation for whose accommoda- tion this house has been built, a number of those " who have, through the Divine Mediator, access by the Spirit to the Father," as their God, and the God of their salvation, who are now " no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God!" who are '* built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets ; Jesus Christ himself, being the chief corner stone !" Of such there are, 1 doubt not, a precious number to be found among 182 SERMOr? DELIVERED AT THE US, constituting a living branch of that genuine, holy, catholic church, which is as old as the first proaiise of the Messiah, maJe to fallen man. Wilh humble confi- dence then, may we of this church hope, that ** our Lord will be with us,'* and that he will fill wilh his glory, this house, erected for his worship, and dedi- cated to his service. " But will God indeed dwell on earth ? Behold the Leaven, and the heaven of lieavens cannot contain thee! How much less this house which we have builded V* Yet will he in the condescensions of his grace, vouch- safe to come and meet, in this house, as many as sin- cerely desire his presence here ; and ihese he will bless according to the promises of his word. Thus may he be expected to distinguish this house, not on account of any beauty, or excellence, or advan- tage belonging to the edifice itself; but because here he may be glorified ; while here sinners are brought to experience the enlightening, saving power of his gospel ; and while here, believers are, by the culture of the or- dinances of his grace, trained up fur future glory. II. Let us be excited and anitnated to the faithful and cheerful performance of the important duties required of us, as we would hope to see this house filled with glory. Let us gratefully feel and acknowledge our obligations to the Lord, "by whose good hand upon us, we are brought hitherto,'* and are now allowed to appear before him, and to attend on the exercises of his worship in this house. From a small beginning, our church, under many diflSculties, has become "greatly increased in its latter end." The old house of worship, lately removed from the ground on which this new edifice stands, within the rec- OPEIfTNG OF THE NEW CHURCH. 18^ ollecfion of some of jou, was of but little more than half the size, to which it was afterwards enlarged. From the con'sregation worshipping in that first small and sim- ple building, a considerabk proportion, on account of a difference ins entiment on some points of church govern- ment, withdrew and formed the Presbyterian Church in this city, which has become the numerous and respecta- ble body, which you see, under that name at this day. Yet the growth of the original congregation which re- mained, required, in the course of time, an addition to their first house, which nearly doubled its size. After a lapse of years, room was again wanting for a still grow- ing people. The measure of providing a second house of worship, was then adopted, and accomplished, on the principle, that the church, branched out into two congregations, and worshipping in two houses, should enjoy, alternately and equally, the labours of two pas- tors. That second house, neat and coaimodious, was also filled : and soon again you found a pressing de- mand, which has existed and increased during some years past, for many seats beyond the number, which both your houses of worship could supply. To meet this demand, and to provide, at the same time, for a probable, and accelerated increase of numbers, for whom further additional room might be required, it was judged expedient, to -ake down, rather than fo enlarge again, your ancient building, and in its place to erect the spacious edifice in which we are now assembled. This edifice, while it exhibits a new and noble style of archi- tecture, and enriches our city with an additional pleas- ing monument of taste and liberality, affords within its capacious walls, the most convenient and desirable ac- commodation for a very large assembly of worshippers- 184 SERMON DELIVERED AT THE Who that is interested in the welfare of this brancli of the Christian church, can view this elegant and \alua- ble building, without feeling the lively emotions of a pe- culiar salisfaclion and gratitude, while it is contemplat- ed as the Ebenezer, which we have raised, testifying that " hitherto the Lord hath helped us." Let us then here pause and recollect the first rise, the feeble origin, the remarkable prosperity, the rapid growth, the present numbers and strength of this church ; the two commodious houses of worship, with which we are nowpro\ided; and all the advantages for attending the ordinances of the sanctuary, and sup- porting the institutions of the 2^ospel, and transmitting its privileges and blessings to succeeding generations, which we enjoy under the smiles of a beneficent Provi- dence ; and let the language of our admirins:, adoring hearts be, *' What shall we render unto the Lord for all his benefits ?" " Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, and for thy truth's sake !" " For it is thou who performest all things for us." Having thus obtained help of God, and being thui highly favoured of the Lord ; and thus encouraged to hope, that *' he will still send us help from the sanctua- ry, and strength out of Zion ;" let us now, not reluc- tantly, but with a cheerful zeal, fulfil our engagements in defraying the whole cost of this very expensive, but most valuable building. Although the sum expended upon it, greatly exceeds our first expectations, yet, it will not, I am persuaded, exceed the funds of this church, united with those pri\ate resources of its mem- bers and supporters, which may, with convenience, be applied to this important object. Has there been any OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCR, 185 departure from the principles of a rigid economj, in re- spect to the dimensions, the style, and cost of (his edi- fice ? But in regard to these circumstances, has the credit of religion, and the lasting benefit, as well as the present convenience of this church, been consulted ? May we not then, reasonably hope, that what has been done in this case, with such worthy moti\es and view?, will not be displeasing to our gracious Lord, who loves a cheerful giver, anil delights in repaying what is freely given to him, with a becoming regard to his glorj^, and zeal for the promotion of his interests in the world ? Did he not highly commend the affectionate piety of the woman, who poured upon himself the box of prec- ious ointment, uhich might nave been sold for much, and given to the poor ? And by that example, are we not instructed, that them who honor him, by devising and doing liberal things, according to their abililies,for his sake and the gospel's, he will also honor with his ap- probalion, and with the distinguishing blessings of his favour? Are you not also taught by his word, that ihe silver and the gold are his, which you employ in builJ ing an house for him, and in providing for his worship ; in a word, that all in the heaven and in the earlh is his ; that riches and honor come of him ; that he reigns over all ; that in his hand is power and mig.ht ; and that in his hand it is to make great, and lo gi\e strength unto all ? And do you not also know, that of all which you receive from him, you are only stewards, accountable to him as the Lord and owner of all, and under every obligation of duty and interest, to improve the talents, with which you are intrusted, to his glory ? Where- fore attending with reverence to these intimations of his will, encourasce yoursehets in the Lord your God ; 24 # 186 SERMON BELIVERED AT THE persuaded, that as it was in your heart to bniid such an house to his name ; so now, if it be the siixere desire of your hearts, that you may see it filled with his glory, he will graciously accept and establish the work of your hands, and still be wifh you, and bless and prosper you, while you continue to love his church, and seek its good. And for your particular encouragement, with respect to this great undertaking, you may rest assured, that the worldly substance, with which, from the dispo- sitions of a pious heart and willing mind, you thus hon- or the Lord, will be munificently recompensed to you, in the course of his good providence ; perhf^ps, in part, with a visible and rich increase of the good things per- taining to this life ; but move especially, in an abundant supply of the goodness of his bouse ; of the blessings of his gospel, showered down upon your own souls, and descending to your children, and children's children, for a long time to come. ^o\ satisfied trlth the honor of consecrating a portion of your worldly inl<=rests, to the worthy design of building this house for the service of the Lord, would you now see it filled with his glory ? This should doubtless be one of the favourife desires of all our hearts ; and for this should we earnestly pray to Him, who will be inquired of by us, that he may do it for us ; while he is as will- ing, as he is able, to do for us in this case, as in all other instances, exceeding abundantly, above all that we can ask or think. To him then, let onr fervent, and continued petitions be offered up, not only in the congregation, but in the family, and the closet, that he may condescend to be present with tis, on all the occasions of our solemnly as- sembling together in his house, and favour us with the OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. ISf desirable displays of his saving power, and of his amiable glories, in his sanctuary. Let it be our heart's iie->ire and prayer, that here the heavenly doctrines of the gospel may be preached, and its holy ordinances ad- ministered, in their genuine purity and simplicity ; that here an uninterrupted succession of able adnisters of the New Testament, not of the letter, but of the spirit, clothed with the mantle, and actuated by the princi- ples, which distinguished those faithful and zealous ser- vants of the Lord, who have in foimer times laboured in this part of his vineyard, may here stand and minis- ter in his sanctuary ; and in this golden candlestick of the Lord, appear as burning and shining lights, and prove the honored and happy instruments of turning many sinners from darkness, to light ; from the power of satan to God ; and of building up believers on their most holy faith, and in their meetness for the inherit- ance of the saints in light ; even the incorruptible, nn- defiled, and unfading inheritance, reserved for them in heaven. Let us pray without ceasing, that here, one generation after another, through the word of truth, and by the spirit of grace, may be born to God, and nour- ished and strengthened by the provisions of his house, and thus be prepared and trained up for the glory and felicity of Heaven. Thus continuing instant in prayer, and still praying in faith, we may then rejoice in the assured hope, that the Lord will hear and answer us in mercy ; that he will condescend to come and dwell in this house, as the place of his rest, because he hath de- sired it ; that his eyes will be open, and his ears atten- tive, to the prayers that are made in this place ; and that here he will clothe his priests with salvation, and abundantly bless the provisions of his sanctuary; so m lo8 SERMON DELIVERED AT THE that the poor, the hungry, waijing soul, shall be satis- fied ivith brpad, and his saints be made to shout aloiid for joj. But not confining our \iews to ourselves, let 115 embrace in our aHTectionate regards, the church of Chrisf , in all other places, and let if be our earnest, con- stant prayer, that all the nations of the earth may be brought into it, as the w-illins people of our Lord, in the day of his power. Then may we, with a joyful hope, proportioned to the strength of our faith, and the ardor of our doslre, anticipate the approaching happy day, when the mountain of the Lord's house shall be e«tab- jished in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted aboA e the hills, and all nations shall (low into it. And the liord shall be unto his church an everlasting light, and her God her glory. TYould you, my friends, in answer to your prayers, see the glory of the Lord, and taste of his goodness in this house ? Here then let your attendance upon the worship of God, be as regular and constant as your circumstances will permit. When you are under the restraint of afiSictive providences ; or when your situa- tion will not admit of your waiting upon the Lord in his house, if you at the same time really desire his presence and favour, he will be as a sanctuary to you at home, or wherever you may be in the way of duty ; and he will bless you there, and bless you even by the trials which prevent your improvement of the ordinan- ces of hispublic worship. But when no insurmountable obstacle lies in your way, neverallow your attendance on those services, in which you are called to appear be- fore him in his house, to be prevented by the indul- gence of a spirit of sloth, by an unhallow ed attention to the affairs of this life ; by the unseasonable cutertain-^ OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH, 189 luenfs of the table ; bj the intrusion of worldly compa- ny ; or by any dispositions or habits of a reluctant heart, or dissipated mind. If you thus wilfully "forsake the assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some is," you will most assuredly provoke the displeas- ure of your God, who is particularly and' highly oftend- ed with tl)ose who " profane his sabbaths, and des- pise his holy things." Your conduct in this case, also, cannot fail to weaken the hands, and discourage the hearts, of those who are called \o preach to you, that word of the Lord, by which you might be saved, but within the jo^^ful sound of which you refuse to come. Let it be remembered, that every example of this kind serves to sanction, and to increase, that ficy^lect of the institutions of God's house, that profanation of the sacred day of the Lord, and that consequent corrup- tion of noorals, which are already awfully prevalent in the community, and will most certainly, sooner or later, draw down uj)on a guilty land, the righteous judgement of heaven. But if you religiously "decline doing your own pleasuie, on the Lord's holy day, and call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord honorable;" if you esteem it " good for you to draw near to God" in his ordinances, and conscientiously improve your op- portunities for " appearing before him" in his sanctua- ry : then shall you know the " blessedness of the man, who keepeth the sabbath from polluting it," " and who loves the habitation of the Lord's house, where his saints rejoice in goodness." When therefore the return of the season of public worship, and the voice, or the examples of others around you, call upon you and say, " Let us go info the house of the Lord ;" then let your hearts cheer- 190 SETIMON DELIVERED AT THE fully reply, Lord, I corae, " for my soul longetli for the courts of the Lord ; and esteemeth one day enjoy- ed in these, better than a thousand spent elsewhere." Parents and heads of families, shew your esteem and delight in the ordinances of the Lord's house, by resort- ing to them with exemplary consiRRcy and devotion ; and bring your children wilh you,when they are capable of a proper behaviour here ; that they may become early habituated to respect the institutions of the sanctuary, and that they may be brought seasonably into the way of receiving the blessingof the Lord. Children, be persuaded with willing minds, fo ac- company your parents and friends to the house of the Lord. For your encouragement in doing so, remem- ber, that, in the temple which our Lord and Saviour, filled with his glory, when he came in our nature, he most kindly accepted the hosannas of little children ; concerning whom he observed that ** out of the moulhs* of babes and sucklings the Lord ordaineth and perfecteth praise !" Remember, aho, that the little children, who are brought to him in faith, and who willingly come to him, desirous of his blessing, he graciously receives into the arms of his mercy ; and kindly cherishing them in the bosom of his love, as the tender and favoured lambs of his flock, he affectionately blesses them, de- claring, that of such is the kingdom of heaven. Let the youth of our congregations, who are par- ticularly regarded as the rising hope of the church, be entreated to attend our solemn assemblies, with cheerfulness and constancy, watching attentively at wisdom's gates, that they may hear divine instruction, and by the doctrines of the gospel preached to them, they may become " wise unto salvation, through faith OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 191 which is in Christ Jesus." Would you, while rising to fullness of stature, or maturity of years, increase in wisdom and in favour with God and man ? Would you be truly happy in yourselves, and aspire to the honor of doing the greatest possible good to others ? " Re- member then your Creator in the days of your youth,'* and seek without delay an interest in your Redeemer, who declares, that " they who seek him early, shall find him." Thus, will you become a. seed whom the Lord condescends visibly to bless, and be prepared to shew forth his praise, and to maintain his cause in the world. " Your fathers, where are they ? and the phophets," or ministers of God, '' do they live for- ever ?" Soon, my young friends, will your present pas- tors, like those who have preceded them, " finish the course of their mortal lives, and the ministry which they have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God." And will you not, be- fore they go, allow them the high and peculiar satis- faction, of seeing you added to the church, among " such as shall be saved," and such as shall form some of the most precious jewels in their crown of rejoiciHg in the presence of their Lord, at his coming ? Soon the heads of your pious parents, if they yet live, and of other aged christian friends will be laid low under the clods of the valley 5 and their happy spirits, separated from the family of God on earthy and removed from the scenes of activity and useful- ness, as well as of trial, in which they were placed here, shall ascend to join the holy and happy family in heaven, where " all their work is praise and love,'* and their recompense is the fullness of everlasting joy, in the presence of the Lord. How powerfully, how 192 SERMOIf DELIVERED AT THE persuasively, then, should this consideration call upon you to seek the 2:>ace of God, by which you may be prepared to fill up the places of our fathers, and becorna the honored instruments of upholdiuf]^ the church, and supporting the throne of your Redeemer in the world, and of perpetuating the instil utions of the sanctuary, and the blessings of the gospel, to the gener- ations, that are to follow you ! Thus will you become bright ornaments of the religion of Chrij^t, and prove rich blessings in your day, to his church on earth. Thus, after perhaps, a lengthened course of service and usefulness, you will become fifted for high stations of honor and joy in (he presence of your Lord in heaven. Let the servants,^ also, statedly worshipping with us, be exhorted to consider, with grateful hearts, the desirable privileges with which they are favoured in Laving so large a portion of this spacious building, as well as of our other house of worship, appropriated to your accommodation, in attending upon the public worship of God, the common Father of mankind. With him, as we are assured by his word, there is no respect of persons, or preference given in shewing his mercy to the children of men, on account of their na- tional origin, or their situation in life. With thank- fulness and diligence then, improve the advantages thus allowed you for attending our religious assemblies, where you may be instructed in " the faith once de- livered to the saints,'* and become acquainted with " the common salvation," purchased for all believers by the precious blood of Christ, and which is equally and moat freely offered to all, who hear the joyful sound of his gospel ; and where you may hope to see • Alluding to the negro slaves^ who attend this place of worship ia large numbers. Editor. OPENING OF THE NEW CHURCH. 193' the glorj, and experience the grace, of that aclorable Redeemer of the world, whose " gospel is preached to the poor," and whose spirit makes it effectual " to open the eyes of the blind, to accomplish the deliver- ance of the captives of satan, and to restore the wretch- ed servants of sin, to the holj and happy liberty, which is to be found in the service of God, and with which the Son of God, the friend of sinners, makes his redeemed people free indeed. Considering then, your obligations, in these respects, carefully improve the privileges which you enjoy in our houses of wor- ship, pray that you may understand the truth and grace of the gospel, when you attend the ministrations of it. Study to walk according to it, in the course of a sober, righteous and godly life ; and particularly, by continuing, with good will, and all christian fidelity, to perform the services which his word directs you to do, to those whoai his providence has placed in author- ity over you, not merely as done unto men, but to the Lord. Thus learning and obeying the truth, as it is in Christ, and thus labouring to adorn, in all things, the doctrine of God our Saviour ; you may comfort youriiearts with the assurance given you in his word, " that whatsoever good thing any man doth, the same shall he receive, whether he be bond or free.'* Let us all, in a word, whether ministering in holy things, or attending in a private capacity, the business of the sanctuary in this house, let us all engage with united hearts in the holy services, to which we ar& here called, from one sabbath and season of religious worship, to another ; and in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord, let us walk humbly, cheerful- ly, constantly, and exemplarily, that our God and 25 194 SER3I0N DELIVERED, &C. Saviour, who walks in (he midst of the golden candle- sticks, inaj behold us with approbation, and that he may be in all things glorified by us. Let us, in the fear and love of God, cultivate that spirit of brotherly love, of peace and harmony, which should ever distinguish a christian society, meeting in the same house of the Lord, waiting upon him in the same religious exercises, enjoying the same gospel privi- leges, and cherishing the pleasing, animating hope of shar- ing the same incorruptible, undefiled, unfading inherit- ance in the kingdom of glory. Such a temper and con- duct will contribute most certainly and remarkably, to the strength, and the growth of this branch of the church — of this department of that holy family, of which Christ onr Lord is the glorious head. Thus, united as members of the household of faith ; thus by love serving one another ; and thus wilh one mind and one mouth glorifying God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and honoring the Son, even as we honor our Father, we may rest assured, that the God of love and peace will be with us, and by an abundant communication of the spirit of grace, will fill this house with glory. Beholding this glory of the Lord in his sanctuary below, we shall be changed unto the same image from glory to glory, as by the spirit of the Lord ; and thus will our preparation and meetness be advanced for that bright and blessed world, where the redeemed are before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple ; and be that sitteth on the throne, shall dwell among them, and they, beholding his glory, shall be satisfied with bis likeness, triumph in his high praises, and be filled with the joy of their Lord for- ever. Amen. ADDRESS, X-ELIVERED AT A WEEKLY MEETING, OF THE CONGREGATIONAL SOCIETY FOR RELIGIOUS WORSHIP AND IMPROVEMENT. ON FRIDAY EVENING, NOVEMBER 22(1, 1811. It is with peculiar satisfaction, ray worthy friends, that I have witnessed the recent establishment, and the promising progress, of this society ; and that I now meet you here for the purpose ol uniting with you in those interesting religious services, which form the leading objects for which it was instituted. Cherishing the hope that you are already joined to the Lord in a perpetual covenant not io be forgotten ; or feeling a solicitous concern that you may be found among the genuine disciples and followers of Christ ; and at the same time conscious of your own weak- nesses and necessities, and aware of the advantages to be derived from your associating frequently together for religious worship and improvement, you have wise- ly and well, resolved, to meet together statedly, at least on one evening in the course of every week, for these important purposes. 196 AN ADDRESS DELIVERED And in what way could an hour or two, at sucli times, be employed, that would be better adapted to promote the spirit of piety in your own souls, and to encourage each other's hearts, and strengthen each other's hands, in the great duties, and under the vari- ous trials, of the christian life ? Nor are your views of advantage limited merely to yourselves ; as you cheerfully welcome your neigh- bours around you to join with you in your social wor- ship, and your already considerable and gradually in- creasing collection of religious books are designed, not merely to be read for the common benefit in the meet- ings of your society, and for your individual improve- ment in your retired hours ; but to be loaned also, un- der proper regulations, to your friends, v\ho may be desirous of perusing them ; while in your united prayers, it is your purpose and your practice, to re- member and (o plead for the church of Christ general- ly, and those branches of it especially with which you are more immediately connected ; for the nation also, to which you belong, and in whose safety, peace, and prosperity, the most valuable privileges of men, civil and religious, and many of your dearest worldly com- forts and enjoyments are deeply involved; in a word, for the temporal happiness and eternal salvation and felicity of your brethren of the great family of man, throughout the world. Such are your worthy views, and such the import- ant objects contemplated in the formation of this so- ciety ; the design is certainly in itself laudable ; and if, in pursuing it, you continue to be actuated by pure and upright principles and motives, and carry it on with a spirit of becoming union, harmony and zeal. AT A WEEKLY MEETING. 197 you need not doubt, but that the Lord your God and Saviour, whom you thus attempt to serve and honor, and vrho has promised his special presen<:e " wherever two or three are met together in his name," for such purposes " will be with you," and will favour you with his acceptance and blessing, and crown you with the honor by which all his saints are distinguished. "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name : and they shall be mine, saith the Lord ot hosts, in that day when I make up ray jewels."* The circum- stances of your situation in the world, added to the necessities of your souls, having originally suggested the expediency of such a religious association, will, I trust, still recommend and urge your unremitted at- tendance on its meetings, and its exercises, as consti- tuting at once the most profitable and the most agreea- ble employment to which the evening could be devot- ed. You need not be informed, — you must be well aware and sensibly feel, how much you need all the aid, which you can by any means afford to each other in the all important concerns of religion. Surrounded with the multitude of the careless and the profane, who live without God in the world, and in the neglect and con- tempt of the gospel of Christ, and of the salvation of their own souls, and who pursue the perishing interests, and the destructive pleasures of the world, as the only ob- jects of their warm regard ; are you not liable to feel the unhappy influence of their conversation and con- * Malaohi iii. t6, 17. 198 AN ADDRESS DELIVERED duct, in abating the life and fervor of religion in yonr bearts, and assimilating jou too much in your practice to the fashion and the course of this evil world ? To persevere stedfast and unmoved in the narrow way of holiness, which leads to life, in opposition to the vastly greater numbers, who are travelling in the broad w^ay of sin, through scenes of present unrestrained in- dulgence, down to the regions of eternal death ; while the corrupt propensities of your fallen, depraved na- ture, powerfully impel you " to follow a mullitude to do evil," is like sailing against an unfavourable wind and tide combined. And it requires no small degree of watchfulness and resolution, of fervor in prayer, and activity in labour, in such circumstances, to hold fast your own integrity, to keep a conscience void of wilful oflfence, and to guard against the danger of declension and backsliding, and much more so, " to grow in grace and in the knowledge of your Saviour," and to advance from strength to strength in your christian course, " Who is sufficient for these things ?" Of yourselves, you know, you are not. Under the conviction of this, it is then undoubtedly your wisdom, to avail yourselves of all the desirable help which you can obtain. And while you look chiefly by faith and prayer, to your God and Saviour, that he may " perfect his strength in your weakness, and make his grace sufficient for you," it behoves you, at the same time to study how you may become, in the most effectual manner, "helpers of each other's faith and joy," and spiritual improve- ment. For this purpose no means, subordinate to the ordinances of the sanctuary and the devotions of the closet, could have a more favourable tendency, or promise a better result, than those which you are pur- AT A WEEKLY MEETINe. 199 suing, while thus meeting together regularly from time to time ; that you may attend to some peculiarly in- structive, searching, quickening or comforting, por- tions of scripture ; or pious practical discourses of the most approved authors, which may be read among you ; that you may perhaps occasionally engage in conversation on interesting religious subjects, condu- cive to mutual information and edification ; and that you may " pour out your hearts" together before the Lord in prayer, for all the supplies of mercy and grace, which you need in the whole course and circumstances of your work and warfare ; in social prayer naturally rendered more fervent, and therefore likely to be more effectual, by the consideration of your joining together in the same solemn act of worship, having in general the same sins, wants and sorrows, the same fears, doubts and desires to spread before God, and standing equal- ly in need of the same blessings of his grace and salva- tion. " As iron sharpeneth iron, so doth the countenance of a man his friend." And greatly is the soul often enlivened, and improved by joining in such religious exercises, as those which you have here in view, with christian friends and associates. David, no doubt knew the value of religious society, when he said, " I am a companion of all them that fear God and keep his commandments," and when he spoke of "his good- ness as extending not to the Lord, but to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom w'ds all his delight." Have not you also, often experienced important ben- efits in a similar way ? In your ordinary intercourse with your christian friends ; if you have perceived 200 AN ADDRESS DELIVERED them to be engaged, with some becoming degree of zeal or liveliness in the service of their God, and in their attention to the things of their peace ; and if, at the same time, jou have been sensible of a more cold, remiss and languid frame of mind, have you not felt your resolutions awakened, to shake off the sloth which you have indulged, to resist the temptations by which you have been overcome ; *' to remember from whence you have fallen, to repent and do your first works," or to begin to seek in earnest the great salvation reveal- ed and otFered in the gospel, if this had been before neglected? And may you not promise yourselves the experience of similar advantages, and perhaps in a still higher degree, and lars^er measure, from your uniting, and taking part with each other in the appropriate du- ties and employments of such an association as this? How pleasing, how animating the thought, that in this way, you may be instrumental in contributing so much (o each other's spiritual improvement in the present state of darkness and imperfection ; and consequently, in the same proportion, to the advancement of your mutual, everlasting happiness, in a future world of heavenly light and glory. And if the divine life may be thus promoted in your own souls, by the means on which you here at- tend, will not the same means have the desirable effect of " making your light shine with increasing lustre be- fore others, and so giving it an increased eflScacy, in constraining them, while they behold in your good conduct, more and more of the lovely fruits of your holy religion, '* to glorify your Heavenly Father and Divine Redeemer ?" Or will they not, be thus, at least, more effectually reproved and corrected for their AT A WEEKLY MEETING. 201 impenitence, their unbelief and their disobedience to the gospel, which you profess to adorn ? How cheering, also, how delightful is the hope, that the prayers in which jou here unite, may be gracious- ly answered by " Him who heareth prayer," in the blessings of his favour, showered down in rich abun- dance upon yourselves, and upon many others, whom you bear on your hearts, in your devout addresses at the throne of Grace ? " The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availefh much.'* The united prayers of the faithful, we are encouraged and warranted by the best authori- ty to expect, may be still more availing. For to such prayers, our Lord has certainly given some special and peculiar encouragement, when he says ; " If even two of you shall agree on earth, as touching any thing that they shall ask," ( in his name, and agreeably to the word and will of God,) " it shall be done for them of my Father, who is in heaven." Now it is the de- clared will of God, that in the religious assemblies of his people " their supplications, prayers and interces- sions, with giving of thanks, should be made, not only for themselves, but for all men." You have then abundant reason for being strong in faith, and cherish- ing a good hope, and the most enlarged expectations, while you continue to unite your hearts with your voices in praying, not only for the salvation and the prosperity of your own souls, and for the edifica- tion and peace of the church of Christ and its individ- ual members ; but for the wider spread and growing success of the gospel in the world, that it may ha\e a free course and be glorified, in the salvation of multi- tudes in every nation ; and that the kingdom of ouv 26 202 AN ADDRESS DELIVERED Redeemer, which is the kingdom of grace and righ- teousness, may be established and grow, and flourish, on the ruins of the usurped dominion of satan, where- ever the children of men dwell on " all the face of the earth," And surely you cannot have less cause for believing and hoping, that you may be graciously heard and answered, when it is " your heart's desire, andyour prayer to God," for your brethren around you, who enjoy with yourselves the external privileges of the gospel dispensation, without having yet experienc- ed its saving operations, that while they are permitted to "see the heavenly light," and to " hear the joyful sound of the gospel," they may be made to feel its divine energy, in ** turning them from darkness to light, from the power of satan to God, and from their sins unto righteousness, so that ihey may obtain the forgiveness of their sins, and the salvation of their souls, and an everlasting inheritance of life and glory, among all them that ar6 sanctified, through the faith that is in Jesus Christ." Since then you are thus authorized to hope, that you may receive the most important benefits to yourselves, and at the same time prove instrumental in securing the most precious blessings of the grace and love of God in Christ Jesus, to an unknown number of your fellow-men ; let your hearts be encouraged and ani- mated by these considerations and prospects ; and let it be your particular study and care, that you may continue to be of one mind, and of one accord, and that with a truly christian spirit of charity, zeal, and con- stancy, you may persevere in improving the means to which you have thus resorted, and which you are now pursuing for the attainment of those most interesting AT A WEEKLY MEETING. 203 and desirable objects, to which your views Were di- rected in the establishment of this society. For these purposes, may the God of love, of peace, and of all grace, be with you : and may you find him ever present and ever ready, " to do for you, exceeding abandantly, above all that you can ask or think ;" through the riches of his grace in Jesus Christ our Redeemer and Mediator ; •' who is," with-the Father and the Holy Spirit, ** over all, God blessed for ever« Amen !'* LETTERS. TO MISS N, B. ALEXANDRIA, JVNE 25, 1784. MY DEAR N. J^ ROM the intimate acquaintance which has for a considerable time subsisted between us, I am induced to believe, that you will take in good part, the freedom of a familiar letter. It is dictated by senti- ments of sincere and tender regard for you, designed, while it gratifies my own feelings, to afford you, if not an improving entertainment, at least an innocent amuse- ment in some of your unemployed moments. The esteem which I have entertained for your verj worthy parents, ever since my first knowledge of them, would naturally lead me to indulge some partiality for those also, who must be particularly dear to them, in the relation of childien. E\en upon this principle, I have always derived much pleasure, from that unre» served intercourse with you all, from the eldest to the youngest, which I have enjoyed during the short stay that I am allowed to make in the family, once in the year since your removal from Alexandria. But this pleasure, I can with sincerity assure you, is greatly in- creased by those promising appearances in your char- acter, which incline me to hope, that, as you severally advance forward on the stage of life, you will individu- ally merit the respect that is always paid to virtue, anci LET«PRRSr. 205 eonciliale the love and favour, which are always shewn io persons of agreeable dispositions, and amiable conduct. While I freelj express this sentiment, which I think to be true in itself, and not improper to be communicated to you, I have no inclination to deal in the language of flattery. My only aim is to encourage those principles, and to cherish those opening buds, which may hereaf- ter, with due culture, be productive of the happiest con- sequences, and crowned with the most desirable fruit, I need not remark to you, my dear, that you are now arrived at an age, when the little pursuits and amuse- ments, which properly enough engage the attention and constitute the happiness of children, would be to you as unbecoming, as they are unseasonable. I have no room to doubf, but that you have commenced the young woman, with sentiments suited to support and adorn that more important character, in which you now appear. I am sure that the motives which serve to en- force the cultivation of such sentiments, and of a cor- respondent practice, are too obvious not to be discern- ed ; too forcible not to be felt, by you. They are drawn from the consideration of your own credit and interesf, which upon the score of a justifiable and laud- able self-love, cannot but be very dear to you ; and from a principle of gratitude to those, whose study it has been to furnish your mind wi(h every valuable ac- eomplishment, of which it was susceptible in the earlier days of your youth. To the soft, but powerful, influ- ence of this most amiable principle of your nature, your tender bosom cannot be insensible. And how pleasing, how delightful must be the sensations which will aris« in your own heart from the reflection, that while you are pursuing your own truest honor and happiness^ iir 206 LETTERS. those paths of piety and virtue, which the affectionate care of your parents has so early marked out, and so earnestly recommended to your choice ; you are at the same time making them the best, the most satisfactory return, which they could possibly wish to receive. To such a kind requital, they have surely the best founded claim : and as I am well convinced, that you are not wanting in a disposition to pay it, so it is with the sincerest pleasure, I find, that your endeavours in that way have not been ineffectual. Your dear moth- er expresses, in terms not a little flattering, her appro- bation of your conduct ; and also of that of your little sisters, since the weighty charge of the family has fal- len, in so great a degree, upon herself. Her instruc- tions and example, I doubt not, have had an happy in- fluence. Let them be duly attended to for the time to come. You cannot fail to profit greatly by them. And think how happy it will make 3/our honored fath- er, should he be restored to you, to participate in the praises, which he shall find his children have been, and I trust will still continue to be, ambitious to deserve. But whether he is reserved for the enjoyment of so great a satisfaction, is yet to us a distressing uncertainty. What the determination of Providence respecting him may have been, time will at length discover; and pos- sibly the discovery may be such, as will gratify the warmest wishes of all who are now anxiously concern- ed for his safety. In the mean time, this we have the best ground to believe, that it is well with him. There is no situation into which he may be cast, but what I trust will be sanctified to his benefit. And if his con- nexion with this life has ceased ; if the happy days which he has heretofore spent with the amiable partner LETTERS. 20? ef his bosom, with the children of his love, arc not to be renewed ; if the joys which he might have yet promis- ed himself, from this purest and richest source of earth- ly felicity, are not to be realized ; let us comfort our- selves with the hope, with the assured persuasion, that he has a far happier lot in the glorious family of heav- en, where the pleasures of friendship are undissembled and complete ; where the blessings of society are ex- alted to their highest perfection, and permanent as eter- nity. In whatever manner this very interesting mat- ter may be ordered, it certainly becomes us, with un- repining resignation, to acquiesce in the event, and to adore the hand by which it has been directed ; not doubting but that what God has done, is intended to ac- complish some design of infinite wisdom, goodness, and love to him, and to all intimately and tenderly connect- ed with him. I knovT, my dear N. that to be deprived, should it be your lot, so early in life, of so valuable a parent, is an affliction in itself, very severe, and which you must deeply feel. Yet, let it be considered, that even this, as well as every other painful stroke which you have already felt, or which may yet await you, may be over- ruled, so as to work for good, and will infallibly do so, if wisely improved. It is good, as the Prophet expresse8 it, to bear the yoke in one's youlh. Our condition must be privileged beyond the common lot of the most virtuous and the most happy on earth, if we do not of- ten, durins; our progress through life, experience the bitterness of disappointment in some of our favourite hopes, and suffer the painful loss of some of our roost valued enjoyments. It may therefore be highly ex- pedient and salutary, to set out in life, under a disci- 208 LETTERS. pline, adapted to form the mind to habits of reflection and resignation, by which it will be best prepared to meet, and to sustain, the trials of succeeding years. Trials, of one kind or other, must be expected by all Ihe children of Adam, who are born to trouble, as the sparks fly upward. They usually become more fre- quent and painful, as we proceed further in our pilgri- mage through life ; and they are, if not absolutely nec- essary, at least highly conducive to the safety and prosperity of our souls. Wise and happy are they, who have been early taught to view them in this light, and to bear them, when they come, with suitable humil- ity and patience. Whatever may be the portion of affliction allotted to you, I hope you will never allow yourself to sink in despondence under it : but that you will study to add to that softness and sensibility of heart, by which I "wish to see you ever distinguished, that spirit of christ- ian faith and fortitude, which overcometh the world. This is to be sought by earnest prayer, and to be cher- ished by a life of sincere piety, and uniform holiness. And they who conscientiously aim to approve them- selves to God in these duties, trusting in the merits and grace of the Redeemer, for their acceptance and re- ward, may, even in the darkest day and most trying hour of life, rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of their salvation. For the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting, to those who thus keep his covenant, and to those who thus remember his com- mandments to do them. As a Father pitieth his chil- dren, so will the Lord pity those who thus fear and serve him. Such he will never leave nor forsake. From such he will never take away his loving kindness. LETTERS. 209 In his protection they shall be safe : in the light of his countenance they shall be happy. They who have no claim to these privileges of the true christian, will be left poor a»id wretched in the midst of the greatest prosperity of this world ; but they who have been wise to secure their interests in these, may solace themselves with pleasures and with hopes, which its most flattering smiles cannot inspire, and which its severest afflictions cannot take away. I shall not apologize for the serious strain in which I write. It is that which is most familiar to my pen, which I believe will best correspond to the feelings of your heart. The sentiments of religion which I have taken occasion to suggest, cannot be unpleasing; to you. Religion I am persuaded, you wish to make the primary object of your attention. In the practice of it, I am sure, you will find your truest and highest happiness. Though its aspect be grave, yet is it not severe. Though its laws inculcate sobriety of mind, and of man- ners, yet do they not forbid, but rather encourage, cheerfulness of temper. It never was intended to make our pleasures less ; but on the contrary, to improve, exalt, and multiply them. And accordingly, its ways will be pronounced by them who travel in them, to be ways of pleasantness, and they will find all its paths peace. Religion is indisputably the highest wisdom, the brightest ornament, the richest treasure, of human nature. The dear young friend to whom I write, will, I trust, ever reckon it among the most attractive charms of her youth. She will certainly find the best support of her age (should life exlentl so far) of her sweetest solace in every season of atBiction and sorrow on earth. But what language can speak the advantage of it, in a 2r 110 LETTERS. djing hour ? And a dying hour is what we should nev- er allow to be long out of view. For even in ihe sea- son of youth, and gaity, of joy and hope, it may not be far remote. But when it arrives, then to be able to look back upon a life well spent, carefully redeem- ed from the vanities of the unthinking, and the follies of the vicious, and devoted to the service of our God and Saviour; to the practice of all righteousness and goodness ; and to look forward, with that lively animat- ing hope, which is founded on an approving conscience, of rising beyond the grave, to those joys which are unspeakable and full of glory, which shall be the portion of the good through eternal ages ; this surely is an hap- piness, for the attainment of which, no exertions can be too great ; for the want of which, nothing that this earth may afford can ever compensate. This is the happiness which, with all the ardent affection of a friend and christian, I wish you to possess. And as it is to be secured by religion, and by that alone, no other consideration will be necessary to engage you to pur- sue it, in this way, with all the care and diligence, which so important an object justly challenges. Only study to be good, and you cannot fail to be blest. According to my usual practice, when I write to those whom I love, I have run my letter considerably beyond the limits, which I had at first prescribed to myself. But I hope you will not think it tedious. It has all flowed from an heart, that feels itself tenderly interested in your happiness, and sincerely desirous of contribut- ing every thing in ray power to promote it. With this object in view, I felt too much pleasure in writing, to admit of my laying down my pen, so soon as I intended^ when I took it up. ISAAC S. KEITH. LETTERS. 211 TO MR.- BATH, (vIRGINMA) AUGUST 3, 1785'. My dear friend would certainly blame me, and very jiisliy too, if in my present situation, with my time so much at my own disposal, I should omit a favourable opportunity of discharging one of the kindest offices, that can be shewn to an absent friend. I am apprehensive, indeed, that you will find it performed in a manner little suited to gratify your feelings and expectations ; but I am desirous to offer you something in this way, that may serve as a testimony at least of my good will, per- suaded that your usual candor, or rather partiality, will dispose you to read whatever I write, with all the in- dulgence I could reasonably ask, if not with all the pleas- ure I would wish to afford. And if my writing may on- ly answer the purpose of furnishing you with an inno- cent and agreeable amusement for a few moments, I shall think the time bestowed upon this, among the best employed, and happiest hours, of the sweet leisure I now enjoy. After an easy and agreeable journey, my fellow trav- eller and myself arrived here, through the favour of a kind Providence, on the fifth day after leaving Alex- andria. The ride itself contributed to the restoration of my strength and spirits, even beyond my expecta- tions, more especially when we approached towards the mountainous country, where every breeze seemed to breathe health and cheerfulness ; and my residence here, as far as I can judge from the experience I have yet had of it, seems likely to prove no less favourable to the object of my visit. Independently of the water for which this place is chiefl.y famed, it seems to have 212 LETTERS. been particularly designed by the beneficent Creator, t© furnish a salulary and pleasing retreat for the infirm and the languid, during the sultry heat of summer. It lies in a deep narrow vale, formed on the north by a lofty, steep and craggy mountain, and by a considerable hill on ihe south. The first of these, besides exhibiting to the contemplati\ e mind, a pleasing prospect of nature in ber rude, untouched magnificence, and 1 think not sus- ceptible of improvement by the hand of art, serves the valuable purpose of intercepting the morning and even- ing rays of the sun, and by these means of protracting, considerably, the coolness of those sweet and refreshing bours, which form the beginning and the close of the summer day. The town is not yet an object of much consideration ; though it is scattered over a pretty large extent of ground. The greater part of the houses, which I conjecture amount in the whole, to between one hundred and fifty, and two hundred, are small and indifferent, suited merely to the design of a temporary residence ; though there are a few of a neat and con- Tenient structure already built, and others continually rising. The water, which is to be considered as the capital object of the place, is indeed the purest, and the lightest, I have ever tasted. Besides these excellent qualities, it is generally allowed to possess some peculiar medicinal virtues, which render it highly salutary in many complaints. Whether it will eventually have a good effect in my own case, I cannot yet determine. What I have drank of it has been so far useful, as to promote a good appetite and digestion. 1 ha\e not yet made sufficient trial of the bath, to form a judgement whether it will agree equally well with my constitution. But to whatever it LETTERS. 213 is to be ascribed, whether to the use of the wafer, or to the change of air, or to any other cause, [ ha\e certain- ly felt myself much better hitherto, than when 1 left home ; though I still find that I am not perfectly freed from all remains of my former fever. I am not without hope, however, that after spending two or three weeks more here, I shall return to Alexandria with a greater stock of health, than 1 have possessed for a twelve month past. The company collected here is not yet very numer- ous, but appears to be daily increasing. The methods of spending the time are as various, as the circumstan- ces, characters, and dispositions of the people. We have balls and plays, and gaming houses, and during the last week, sermons almost every day by the metho- dists. And upon one or other, upon fewer or more of these, the gay, the dissipated, the serious, attend, as Tanity, passion, or conscience happen, to have a deter- mining influence. For my own part, as I never yet found happiness in a crowd, or in the usual occupations, either of the busy or the idle, 1 have chosen to pass my time chiefly in retirement. And I felicitate my- self that I have it in my power to do so, as I am pro- vided with a private room, just large enough to contain a bed and a chair, with the liberty of a comfortable parlour, not yet appropriated, and a charming cool piazza, fronting the high mountain mentioned above, and approaching within a few yards of the fine stream of water, flowing from the springs of health, near to which the house is situated, and yet remote from noise. Sweet solitude ! Rut ah ! one thing is still wanting to complete the scene, and give the full relish of it. 214 LETTERS. Whaf that is, your own feelings, will readil/ suggest, when you reflect how defective are all the advantages of situation, and all the other enjoyments of life, with- out the society of those, whose souls are united with ours, in the tenderest intercourse of friendship and af- fection, and whose happiness is dear to us as our own. Were 1 only favoured with the presence of the much valued friends whose company I resigned on the road, 1 should think myself as happy, during my transient res- idence here, as the state of things in this evil world, will ordinarily admit. But while I cannot but regret, that the pleasure and improvement of our personal in- tercourse and conversation, are for a time suspended, it is some consolation to me, that I can fancy myself still present with you in spirit, and sometimes associated with you in our approaches to the throne of grace, ad- dressing our Heavenly Father, in the name of our dear Saviour, for every blessing to each other, as well as to ourselves. Often, often, my dear friend, do I think of you at all hours of the day, and more especially, when wan- dering solitary, as fancy leads, in the shady, and de- lightfully romantic walks, with which the environs of this place abound ; and recollecting with the tenderest sympathy, the afflictions and the sorrow under which you have been so long depressed, my fervent prayers are offered up to the Father of mercies, that as a fa- ther pitieth his children, so he may pity you, and help you to bear your bodily infirmities, and the troubles of your mind, with christian fortitude and patience, till he shall see fit to restore you to the full possession of your health, and give you the uninterrupted enjoyment of that peace of mind, which passeth all understanding. LETTERS. 215 To the first of these, T hope your retreat in the country will greatly contribute : And the last of them I know you have sometimes experienced already, in a degree which I should covet to attain, in preference to all be- sides, which can be enjoyed on earth ; tor to feel this composure, this elevation of soul, is to anticipate the rest, and the blessedness of heaven itself. O my friend, when 1 have heard you talk, though with all that jealous distrust of yourself, which true hu- mility ever inspires, of the love of God shed abroad upon your heart, of the aspirations of your soul after the fullest conformity, and the nearest approach to the adorable Author of your being and redemption ; and of the hope which you conld not but sometimes entertain, of rising to fullness of joy in his glorious presence, I could not but wonder, that you should at all, and much more so generally, indulge a spirit of dejection and mourning. At such season, I could not forbear rejoic- ing- on your account, though on my own I could feel nothing but sensations of shame and self-reproach, un- der the conviction of my guilty deficiencies in these exercises and attainments. And amid the painful re- flections usually excited by every serious and imparh'al investieation of my o^^n heart, and my conduct, I still feel the most cordial satisfaction in the thought, that I am warranted to apply to you all the comfort, which that expression and affectionate exhortation of St. Paul is intended to convey to the true christian ; " Re- joice in the Lord, always, and again I say rejoice." Though the power of sin may not yet be entirely sub- dued within you, and you may find abundant cause to renew the tears of your repentance e\ery day ; yet let your heart remain open at the same time to the sensa- 216 LETTERS. tionsof holy joj, reaiembering that the God wilh whom you have to do, is merciful and gracious, forgiving the iniquity, transgression and sin of every true penitent ; and that yon have also an Advocate with the Fa- ther, Jesus Christ, the righteous, who can be touch- ed with the feeling of your infirmities, and ever lives to make intercession for you ; and will secure a divine acceptance for all your good desires and faithful services, however feeble and imperfect. Should the troubles of the present life, seem to bear hard and long upon the flesh, ever tender of itself, and averse from suffering of every kind, count it, never- theless, all joy when you are called to endure trials of this nature, esteeming them, not according to the sug- gestions of sense, but according to the representations given of them in the gospel, which teaches you to view them as the discipline of a Father's hand, and as com- paratively light and but for a moment, while they are working for you a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Or should the fear of death, and more especially, of the pain of dissolution, begin to spread a gloom over your spirits, banish at once every melan- choly idea on this subject, and lift up your head and your heart with joy, in the persuasion, that your re- demption is then drawing nigh ; and that when your earthly house of this tabernacle shall dissolve, you have then a building of God, an bouse not made with hands, eternal in the heavens; where mortality, with all its attendant evils, shall be swallowed up in everlasting life and happiness. Have you not through the abound- ing riches of divine grace, and by the great and precious promises of the gospel, a claim to all these consola- tions, in time, and to all these hopes for eternity ? Let not then these divine consolations be small with LETTERS. ^ 217 you; let not these animating hopes be rejected. For these, and these alone, can effectually sooth your soul into sweet serenity, when disquieted within you, and raise it in holy triumph, when bowed down under the various sorrov?sof this world of aflSiction and tridl. 1 know to whom I write, or I might perhaps think it necessar} to add some admonitory hints of a diiFerent tendency, to counsel you to temper your joys and your hopes, with moderation and fear. Bjt I am well aware, that you require little cautionary advice of this kind, as you are already but too much disposed to write bitter things against yourself, and to cherish distressing doubts and apprehen'^ions, when you have the best ground to say, " 1 know in whom I have believed ;'' and in whom, believing, you should rejoice, with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. On thU account I esteem it my duty, as much as it is ray inclination, to use my best endeav- ours to be an helper of your joy. And though I should be able to do nothing more toward the accomplishment of so friendly a design, than merely to express the de- sire of my heart, and shew my good will ; perhaps even this, as it affords some little satisfaction to my own mind, may have some favourable influence aldo upon yours. I shall not however be at all disappointed, if I should appear to you, like the friends of Job, in the days of his distress, a miserable comforter, as unsuc- cessful, as I am unskilled, in the business I am so for- ward to attempt. Consciousof my own defective talents for executing properly, this tenderest office of friend- ship, 1 commend you to the affection and experience of one much better quali6ed for.it, and at the same time, possessed of the peculiar advantages and opportn- nitiesy arising from that most intimate and dear relation 218 LHTTEKS. in which he is connected with you ; and my prayers shall not cease to be otfered up for you, to Hlrn who alone is able efFectsially to establish, strengthen, and comfort you. This I suppose will find you still in the country, as that is undoubtedly the situation most favourable to the recovery of 3 our health. All I fear is, that you will feel yourself rather too solitary there, unless you are on a footing of agreeable intimacy with the good family in which you reside. I persuade myself that you will find them social and friendly, and disposed to contrib- ute every thing in their power, to your coa)(ort and hap- piness. If so, they have my blessing, if that will avail any thing, for my heart blesses every body that shews you any kindness. Have you the society of either of your dear little children ? Your maternal feelings, the tenderest and most exquisite of which the human heart is susceptible, will not readily consent to forego the en- tertaining prattle and play of the one, and the still more sweetly engaging smiles, of the other. But if circum- stances require you to deny yourself for a short season, in these most innocent and delightful of all social pleas- ures, comfort yourself, in the mean time, that you are using the means for prolonging them ; and that a tempo- rary suspension of enjoyment, gives it a higher value and relish when restored. I feel the force of this con- sideration myself, at the present moment. What I now most want, is the sociely I most value. But the prospect of enjoying it ere long, with increased pleas- ure, reconciles me to the most disagreeable circumstance of my present situation, or at least helps me to bear it without repining. I cannot yet name the time of my return ; but whether absent or present, be assured that LETTERS. 219 your inleresis lie very near my heart ; and that you, and all who are dear to you, will be happy both now and forever, if kind Heaven favours the warmest wishes of your very sincere and affectionate friend. ISAAC S. KEITH. TO REV. DR. S. [the first letteu written after his settlement in charleston ] charleston, april 18, 1789. REV. AND DEAR SIR, i>r the return of the same conveyance which brought me your very acceptable favour of (he lOtb of Dec. last, I wrote to one of your family, and desired my cor- dial thanks for it, to be presented to you. Particular circumstances prevented me from gratifying my wishes, in writing to yourself at that lime. I rely on your well known benevolence, and long experienced fiiendship, to excuse the omission, and with pleasure, improve the present opportunity for returning you in this way, my best acknowledgemenls for your much valued letter, and for all the instances and expressions of your kind and friendly regards, with which you have honored me. The generous interest which your worthy family, to- gether with yourself, take in my concerns, and the pleasure which you feel in what contributes to my hap- piness, afford me a very peculiar satisfaction. For such testimonies of the affectionate remembrance of me, by persons whose favourable opinion and good will, is so highly flattering and pleasing to me, what adequate returns can I make ? They will be recollected with the 22(J LETTERS. liveliest grafifude ; and as my heart has long cherished tie sentiments and feelings of a sincere esteem, and cordial friendship for you, and can never forget the many improving and happy hours, which 1 have enjoy- ed among you ; so it will, I think, never cease to feel itself verj tenderly interested in jour welfare, and fer- vently to pray, that the bountiful Author of all good, m^y suilably and abundantly reward all j^our kindness shewn to me, and make you all happy in every blessing of his providence and grace. Your excellent hints of ad\ice, are worthy of your character, your age and experience ; and I hope Ihey ■will be remembered by me for the government of my con- duct, with the respect and reverence due to the coun- sels of piety and wisdom ; and with the regards due to the dictates of an affection truly paternal. I feel the weight of the charge which I have under- taken here ; and under a consciousness of my unworthi- ness of the trUf»t coiDmitted to me, and unfitness for the work in which lam employed, I find sufficient cause for humiliation, and many apprehensions. But I desire to have my dependence still placed, and fixed, on that grace, "which I know is sufficient for me, and on that strength, "which can be made perfect in the greatest human weak- ness. It is to me a very comfortable circumstance of my situation here, that the benevolent and friendly dis- position of the people, whom I am called to serve in the gospel, inclines them, to receive such services as 1 am able to render them, with all the candor and indulgence, which I could reasonably wish or expect. May that candor and indulgence, and all their kind, and respect- ful attentions to their ministers, be graciously recompens- ed, and made mutually blessed, in the abundant success LETTERS. 221 of our labours ; and through grace, T cannot but en- cofirage the hope, that we shall not labour allogelher in vain. Serious impressions of religion appear to be son.e- times made, under the ministrations of the word, upon many of our hearers, and particularly upon the poor sons of Africa and slavery. Several individuals, bo(h white and black, have been lately added to the commun- ion of our cluirch. An increasing acquaintance wiJh the congregation, contributes to make me more and more sensible of the obligations whicli I am under to you and Dr. Duffitldy f«r your friendly agency in introducing me to the con- Dexion in wnich I am now united with a people, from whose religious character, friendly dispositions, and pol- ished manners, the pastoral relation naturally becomes as pleasing and delightful, as it is in ilself important and interesting. It remains for me only to wish (hat I may never dishonor the partiality of Ihe worthy friends to "whom I am so much indebted. My worthy colleague, your friends, I believe, in general here, together with myself, are in usual health. Present my best regards and wishes to Mr. S. and all the family. With great es- teem and aifection, 1 am your, and their obliged friend. ISAAC S. KEITH. TO REV. DR. G. CHARLESTON, APRIL 20, 1790. REV. AND DEAR SIR, Has not the poet elegantly and em- phatically expressed it ? "Procrastination is the thief of time." And the truth of the expression, whose expe- rience has not in a thousand instances confirmed ? 222 LETTERS. As for myself, I feel it every week, in the loss of almost days ; and every day, in the loss of hours, stolen from me by the habit of deferring something, that claims an immediate attention, and might be done at the present time, to a more convenient season. Many of these things will, of course, be left undone ; and many of them, which cannot be finally and totally neglected, will be done in a manner in which they ought not to be done. The review of such delays, and of their consequences, has seldom failed to awaken resiret. I wish I were not obliged to add, and has almost as seldojn served to pro- mote amendment. • These reflections have been renewed in my mind, and naturally led my pen to begin this letter in the man- ner which you see, by the circumstance of readiiiii' over again, what I had several times read before, your val- ued letter of the 26th of February, ult. I sincerely thank you for your letter, and all that it contains. The expressions of your friendly regards for me, are very pleasing, as I cannot but think it par- ticularly desirable to possess the esteem of those who themselves deserve it. And the assurance which it gives of your disposition, to maintain the correspondence begun, is not less acceptable to me ; as it promises me much pleasure and improvement. You have also my best acknowledgements for the copy 0* your sermon, which accompanied your letter. The occasion on which it was delivered, was truly solemn, and to every reflecting and well disposed mind, deeply interesting and affecting. Dr. DufSeld's death will be felt much more exten- sively, than by his own congregation ; and especially in your church judicatories, of which he was a well in- LETTERS. 22\j formed, indusirioiis, zealous, and useful member. If is regrefted by many of our church here, by whom he was personally known, and highly esteemed. The abridge- ment of his character, as it appeared in your papers, was transferred into ours ; and by some good judges of the truth, as well as of the style, 1 have heard it pro- nounced justly and elegantly drawn. With respect to the measure which you recom- mend, that some communications relative to our pro- fessional character and business, should have a place in our letters, my sentiments entirely coincide with your own. Communications of this kind, made in this way, are certainly peculiarly adapted to be useful, to the parties concerned in the correspondence. And if in this case, I should be the only gainer, as I certainly shall be chiefly so, in regard to instruction and improve- ment received, I hope ihat notwithstanding, you will not hesitate freely to impart ; as the advantage in anoth- er point of view, will be no less in your favour ; since according to the maxim of the Divine Aufhor of our re- ligion, " It is more blessed to give, than to receive." The sample which you have already given of the meas- ure which you have recommended, is on a very impor- tant point. All that you have said upon it is, I think, perfectly j'lst ; and is far from appearing in my view too much. If you have any more observations, as you seera to intimate that you have, to ofier uponit, I shall receive^ them with pleasure, and I trust not without some profit. Of the two different methods of preaching, the ab- stracted and the theoretical ; the plain and practical ; I think with you, that on every account, and with respect toall descriptions of hearers, the preference is unques- tionably to be given to the latter. For the reasons 224 XETTERS. whicb jou have suggested in the case of all preachers ; and in my own case for another reason, which if iioi so good an one, must at least be allowed to be a weishty one with me ; I mean, because I am conscious that if I possess any talent for preaching, it is not that of treat- ing a subject en thesi. But if I thougtit I could do much more and better, than I know I am able to do in that wav, I certainly would not with my present senti- ments of its utility, attempt it much more than I have done. The Utile, indeed, ought never, I believe, to be connected with the idea of such preaching ; and as to the Dulci, I think it can make no pretensions to it. To me it conveys the idea of a laborious waste of study, and time to the preacher; and of the still more de- plorable loss of a most precious and inestimable seasoa to the hearers. Under this impression, I aim only at the plain and practical method in my sermons ; but "with what propriety or success, must be left with those who hear them, to judge. What is the usual length of your discourses? Mine very seldom extend to three quarters of an hour, and most commonly fall short of forty minutes. I never beard that they were too short ; but have sometimes had hints, that they would not have been less accepta- ble, if they had been shorter. But the length of a ser- mon I know, is not always measured by ti^i^ ; so that the time which would appear long for one of mine, might appear very short for that of another person. Newton, whose character for good sense, and accurate observation, is not inferior to that, by which he is dis- tin?:uished for his piety, in one of his letters, under the title of Cardiphonia, unites bis own, with the prevails- ing voice, against long sermons ; but allows an hour ta LETTERS. 220 be a tolerable length in ordinarj cases. To a brother clerg/man, who sometimes held out to two hours, he observes, that when weariness begins, edification ends ; and that, therefore, " it is better to feed the people like chickens, a little at a time and often ; than to cram them like turkeys, till they cannot hold one gobbet more." He is also, I find, a friend to extempore preaching, as a mode more favourable to familiar language, and to gain the attention of the people, than writing and read- ing. Memoriter preaching will, I presume, answer the latter purpose, as well as the extempore kind ; and in almost all other respects, seems to have greatly the ad- vantage of it. But whatever may be the recommenda- tion of extempore preaching, I cannot think of practis- ing it ; and among other reasons against it, because to Die it appears to be impracticable, partly perhaps for "want of courage, and partly, and chiefly, for want of a sufficient fund of ideas, and a ready command of lan- guage, to express those that might present themselves. I have indeed often heard it attempted by those who were not over-rich in either ; but the success did not speak much in favour of the attempt. Do you ever make any extemporaneous excursions beyond the lines which your pen had previously marked out ? In the few essays that I have ever made in this way, I have always fared just as I have done in all my endeavours to learn to swim ; I have immediately sunk, and eager- ly hastened back to the ground which I had left. If I should add much more to this lettei;, I fear you will be led, from the citation from Cardiphonia in the last page, to conclude, that I consider, and mean to treat you, like one of Newton's turkeys. Yet, if other 29 226 LETTERS. letfers, and oilier ensrogeDients, did not demand a share of my present atfenlion, I should stll! write on, per- haps to the bottom of the next pa2;e. And even as things are, this will probably be the case. #0/- ^ 'TV' '7^ "T? '7^ '7? 'ff '7^ The redemption of time is one of the most valuable Christian arts, but one in which I feel myself extreme- ly unskilled. And surely there is no deficiency more to be regretted, or that can be more detrimental, as its injurious consequences reach, not only through all the stages of the present life, but through all the periods of a future immortality. Can you tell me how to guard more effectually against the danger of being robbed, as I am every day, of some everlasting treasure, which might be laid up by some good done, that is omitted ? But I am sensible that it is not information that I most need on this subject. For in this, as in innumerable other instances, *• T see the right, and I appreve it too ; Conclemij the wrong, and yet the wrong pursue." And so it will be, till I am more careful to avail myself of that grace, which is sufficient for me, and of that strength which can be made perfect in my weakness. You find no doubt, as well as myself, that among a nu- merous people much time must be devoted, or if you like the expression better, sacrificed, to visits : for many of them will be of such a nature, as to be recol- lected only for the awakening of the mqrtifying and painful reflection, how much better might the time have been employed ! Yet if we possessed, as we ought to do, the prudence of the serpent, united with the inno» cence of the dove, and the courage becoming the soldiera LETTERS, 22T of Jesus Chrisf, we miiiht improve even the visits wi]ich rmisl be made, as well as those which we would choose to make, to the purposes of acquiiiug knowledge ourselves, more useful than any which books can sup- pi v, and of suggesting and recommending to oihers, more profiiable instruction, than any which we can communicaie in our public discourses. If is well worth while lo study how we may properly preach from house to house ; for it may be made the most practical, and has often proved the most persuasive, kind of preaching. Our worthy friend Mr. B. was lately chosen a mem- ber of the Convention, for new modellinsi; (he constitu- tion of this state ; (o meel the beginning of next month. With affn'ctionafe regards to Mrs. G. 1 am, with great sincerity and respect, yours, ISAAC S. KEITH. TO MRS. K. CHARLESTON, AUGUST 27, 1791. MY DEAR WIFE, 1 HIS is intended to go in the schoon- er Friendship, Capt, W. Befoie it can reach Phila- delphia, I hope you will be safely landed there, and re- joicing with our friends in the goodness and mercy of the Lord, to whom you have cried tor counsel, protec- tion, help, and all needful grace ; and who performeth all things for you and me, and all who have ever sought him as their God, and have thought it good for them, that they should both hope, and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord. When you left Charleston, I think you were enabled to possess a composure of mind, which was far beyond 228 LETTERS.^ any thing (hat could be attained by the best efforts of your feeble timid nature. In my view-, it was such as could result only from that faith, which is the gift of God ; and which is the evidence of things not seen, and the substance of things hoped for. With you, I felt disposed to believe, thai as you had cotiimilted your way to the Lord, trusting also in him, that he would bring it to pass; so he would accordingly be with yoa in (he way in which you were going, and conduct you to your father's house in peace ^* and thus remember to you the word upon which he had caused you to hope, and give you the desire of your heart in a comfortable meeting with the dear fauiily, and other valued friends, from whom you had been so long separated, and whom you were so solicitous to see. It will be \ery pleasing to me to hear, that our ex- pectaiions have not been disappointed ; and that you have again found, that the already tried promises, are the sure promises of everlasting truth, and all yea, and amen in Christ. And surely, by the first opportuni- ty you will inform me of your arrival, and of many par- tictdars of your voyage, and your reception in Phila- delphia ; so that in the renewed mercies, which you have experienced, I may rejoice with you, and that, distant as we now are from each other, I may, notwith- standing, magnify the Lord with yoxi, and together \»\{h. you exalt his name* In this most reasonable and de- lightful service, I hope in due season, to join wiih you in a more literal sense, and a more comfortable manner, than our present circumstances will permit. While our thanksgivings are offered up together for mercies already experienced, let us not forget or ne- * Geu. xxviii. 20. LETTERS. 229 gleet to be found helping together, by prayer for each other, that we may be favoured with that Divine pro- t**«rion and guidance, support and comfort, and various grace which we si ill need duri^r^ our separation ; and which indeed will be always equally necessary to us, through the journey of life, whether we are travelling in it alone, or in company. A fellow traveller in this journey, whose sentiments, views, ajBfections, and every interest, so unite and accord with one's own, as to become in reality the sam.e, is tru- ly a jnost desirable blessing ; and a blessing which has certainly laid me under many obligations, most thank- fully to acknowledge the \Aise and tender care and mercy of the Lord, who has provided such an helpmeet for me. Of the advantages and comforts of such a connexion, the nearest and the tenderest in life, neither of us, have, I believe, been insensible. Yet as we often best learn the value of our enjoyments, when we are deprived of them, perhaps the temporary sus- pension of some of ours in the present instance, may serve to promote among other good purposes, a temper of thoughifulrtess to the blessed Author of every good and perfect gift, who bestows, withdraws, and restores the comforts of life at his pleasure ; and to excite us to improve them, when they are again returned, more to his praise. Ever since you crossed the bar, the wind has been as favourable for your voyage, as your heart or mine could wish. If it has been so with you, the goodness andmercy of the Lord have surely followed you on the wings of the wind. And if it has been so ordered, may not this circumstance be justly regarded as an answer to prayer, and a part of the reward of a patient 230 LETTERS. waiting upon llie Lord ; and what then can be more reasonable, than the most cheerful, affectionate, and fer- vent returns of praiae to Him, who cornmandelh the winds and the seas, and they obey him ? Could you have expected such a long epistle so shortly after your sailing. I have felt a particular pleasure and consola- tion in talking to you, though only on paper, and while you were flying from rae a thousand times faster than my pen could move towards you. Give my tender love to our dear parents, and affectionate remembrance to all inquiring f( iends. I commend you to God, and the word of his grace. I know I shall not be forgotten in the family, and partic- ularly by my dearest friend ; and you may rest assur- ed of your retaining all the interest you can wish to hold, ki the heart of your affectionate IS^AC S. KEITH. i^^ TO THOMAS BENNETT, ESQ. JOHn's ISLAND. ON THE DEATH OF A CHILD. With you, my dear Sir, with all the familj, and es- pecially the bereaved parents, we sincerely sympa- thize under the painful stroke of a Father's hand, which has called so many to mourn. But blessed be his name, for the encouragement gixen in his gospel, that in this case, we are not called to " sorrow, as those who have no hope ;" but rather to comfort our own and each other's hearts with the words of Jesus, who gath- ers the lambs in his arms, and carries them in his bo- som ; and by the solemn voice of death, as well as in the tender language of the covenant of his grace, in the LETTERS. 231 •rdinance of baptism, says, " Suffer the little cliildren, and forbid I hem not lo cooie unto me, for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Is this lovely and promising, and lately beloved and endeared babe, now wiih her and our Lord in his heav- enly kingdom ? She muM there be happy ; happy for- ever, and unspeakably more happy, than the affection- ate hearts of her fondest connexions on earth, can con- ceive. Let them not then weep inronsolably for her : but let them humbly and quietly submit, to the holy hand that has so soon smitten their pleasant and flour- ishing ground, in which they took so much delight, and from which they promised theniselves, probably much more, than the creature is permitted 'o aive. Consol- ed with (he consideration, that the idolized creature is so early removed from the e\ il to con>e, let all who feel and lament the disappointment of their fond wishes and hopes for this world, under this bereaving Provi- dence, now awaken their solicitude, and offer up their earnest prayers, that it may be divinely sanctified to work for their good, in the promotion of their spiritual interests, and everlastins; happiness. The most pain- ful loss, of creature and morlal comforts, will be pro- ductive of the richest gain to the soul, which by such means is constrained to resort to, and to rest in, the Lord, the Creator and Redeemer, as its refuge and por- tion, in the land of the living. To this most desirable and important purpose, may this affecting event, be blessed to all concerned in it ! And may the God of all grace, prepare and open the hearts of all who are again called by it into the house of mourning, to receive those consolations of God, which are not small, and which, to sincere believers^ and humble mourners^ are 232 LETTERS. made (o abound through Christ Jesus, as their sorrows have abounded ! In sympathizing regards, and prayers for the family, Mrs. K. joins with your sincere friend, ISAAC S. KEITH. TO REV. DR. SPROAT. CHARLESTON, AUGUST 17, 1795. REV. AND DEAR FATHER, On Sabbath evening, the 11 th inst, Capt. S. handed us your kind letter of the 29th of July. In your present afflicted state, we esteemed it a particular kindness and favour, that you should wr'te to us again so soon after your letter, with which we were favoured by Capt. S. For that favour, M;s. K. has returned by Capt. S. our thankful acknowledge- ments, with affectionate expressions of tender sympa- thy with our dear parents, under their afflictions, and of our desire and hope that they may be removed, or alle- viated, as may seem best to the wisdom of God. It is with much satisfaction that we learn by your last let- ter, that your pains were considerably abated ; and that our mother's complaint, though it continued, was not worse. Your complaints respectively, may be trou- blesome, and your own in particular, may be often dis- tressing ; but in my view they do not appear to be very threatening to the hope which we are disposed to cher- ish, that you may both of you be mercifidly spared for years to come, for the great comfort and benefit of your family and friends, and of the church of Christ. In the mean time, if it should please the only wise God, to continue his afflicting hand upon you, 1 doubt not but that he will give you the sanctified use of your afflic- LETTER 8. 2^8 tions, bv blessing them to the purposes of making you partakers, more and more, of his holiness on earth, and of promoting jour growing meelness for that eternal rest and fulness of joy, which, 1 believe, await you in his presence in heaven ; and that he will also grant you the coaifortable evidences of his gracious presence with you, through all the remainder of that right way, in which he is conducting you to the city of habitation, prepared for you ; and enable you to continue to pos- sess your souls in patience and peace, believing, hoping, and often rejoicing, in his promises, by which he assures his people of strength according to their day ; that he will never !eav€ nor forsake them ; that all things shall work together for their good ; that no temptation shall overtake them, but what they shall be enabled to bear ; and that through all their tribulations and sufferings, they shall be kept by his power through faith unto sal- vation. Such is our comfortable hope concerning you, and correspondent to this are our prayers for you. And we desire to be thankful, that, while in all your afflictions we are afflicted, we are also comforted with (he persuasion, that to you, belong all those consola- tions of God, which are not small : that the Lord God is now your hope, who has been your trust from your youth up : that now when you are old, your God will not forsake you ; and that under all your weaknesses and infirmities, you will be enabled to go on in the strength of your Redeemer, making mention of his righteousness, even of his only, declaring the wonders of his grace ; rejoicing with thankful praise in his salva- tion ; and quietly waiting, with a cheering hope, for your removal to that desirable state in which all the I'edeemed of the Lord shall meet together, with song* 50 234 LETTERS. and everlasting joy upon their heads ; and where fhey shall obtain joy and gladness, sorrow and sighing shall flee away. O how happy are the people that are in such a case, and that have such a joy in prospect ! Happy infieed are such, whatever they may now be called to suffer in the flesh ; for all their present suf- ferings, are only light afl3ictions, and but for a moment, compared with the far more exceeding, and eternal weight of glory, which they are working out for them. Pray my dear parents, that together with yoursehesj the unworthy writer of this may, through grace, have his share in this happiness ! In afl9ictions of different kinds, I have had, for my time of life, a considerable share ; and 1 have sometimes thought that it was indeed good for me that I have been afllicted. But if they have been really beneficial, so transient have been the good effects of them, or the impressions which my heart has retained of the cause for which they were sent, and of the useful purposes which they were intended and fitted to serve, that it has been hitherto necessary, that the same discipline should be frequently used, to teach me again the same forgotten lessons of wisdom and piety. And if God has any designs of final mercy and love to accomplish in and for me, I have reason to expect, on the same principles, that, should life be spared, many afflictions still await me. May the sanctifying blessings of God, only attend the dispensations of his providence ! and then all, will be not only right in it* self, but well with respect to us. And could we be al- ways! satisfactorily persuaded of this, we should then find little difficulty in saying, concerning God's deal- ings with us ; " Lord, what thou wilt ; how thou wilt ; and when thou wilt ?" But to this purpose, I find great LETTERS. 233 reason for daily renewing that important petition, " Lord, help thou ray unbelief, and increase my faith." ISAAC S. KEITH. TO MISS O. SPROAT. AFTER THE DEATH OF HER FATHER, AND OTHERS OF THl FAMILiY, OF THE YELLOW FEVER. CHARLESTON, DECEMBER 2, 179S. MY VERF DEAR SISTER, JL OUR sad story of many and great sorrows, though not altogether sad, as it con- tained some rich and strong consolations, was convey- ed to us by the hand of a good Providence, in the course of the past week. All the afflictive news which it repeated, we had heard about three or four weeks before, with some ad- ditions afterwards, for which we have the satisfaction now to learn, that there was no foundation. During the interval between the time when the intelligence was first communicated to us, and the receipt of your kind letter, we were waiting, not without some anxiety, though, I trust, at the same time, with some degree of quiet submission, for more particular information, which ^e hoped would be of such a nature as to minister some desirable comfort, under the pressure of our heavy and sore troubles ; and, thanks be to a merciful and gra- cious God, we have not been disappointed. All these painful bereaving strokes of the hand of a most wise and holy God, I feel, with my poor dear wife, with you my dear afflicted sister^ and with our 236 LETTERS. dear widowed mother, and all llie surviving members of our now diatiessed familj ; I feel them, as in ever j re- spect my own ; and with all the others who suffer un- der them, I take all the tender afflictive share in them, that the obduracy, and stupidity of my heart will ad- rait. Dear N. she was to me a very lovely and pleas- ant sister. Our worthy brother W. He was my kind and faithful friend, for whom my heart cherished a sincere and growing esteem and affection ; and his dear M. though not personally known to me, was affectionately regarded as she was united with him in the nearest and leuderest of all mortal ties. And O, my father !* He was entitled to, and he had from me, all the veneration and love, with which I was capable of honoring any per- son on earth, under that important name, and in that in- teresting relation. Concerning them all, I can truly feay, that they were not less, if not more, endeared to me, than my father, or any of my brothers or sisters of my own flesh and blood, from whom I was separated, at an early period of life, and with whom I have never since been permitted to enjoy much personal inter- course. So that as far as my nature is capable of feel- ing, you may be assured, that I enter into all the pres- ent feelings of my dear, excellent mother,f and of all her remaining children, my dear sisters and brothers, as well as those of my own wife, my other self, under the heavy load of affliction which it has pleased God to lay upon our poor family. With you, my dear O, who have been called to act so arduous a part, in the try- ing, awful scene, through which you have been so won- * Dr. Sproat. •j- She was dead when this letter was written, though ifc was not knowR io Dr. and Mrs. K. LETTERS. 237 derfully conducted, by the good hand of your God up- on you ; and with all the rest of the family, who have not yet been swept away with the flood of death. I feel that m the interesting, tender names, of father, brother, and sister, the desire of our eyes, has been taken away with a stroke ! But it is the Lord, who has the most absolute and unquestionable right to do unto all of us, as seemeth unto him good, who has done this ; and it becomes us all to be dumb, and not to open our mouths in a single coaiplaint, or to indulge in our hearts a single murmuring thought, against the dispensation. " He is a rock, bis work is perfect ; for all his ways are judgment ; a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he." Behold he taketh away, and who can hinder him ? Who will say unto him, what doest thou? Though * clouds and darkness may be round about him ; righteousness and judgment are the habita- tion of his thtone. And as he reigns, and will forever reign, and his counsel shall stand, and he will do all his pleasure, and will always do that which is right, and can never do any wrong to any of his creatures ; it be- comes us to rejoice in his government, to be humbly resigned to his disposal, and to be entirely satisfied, that all the will of the Lord should be done. For quiet submission, and sweet acquiescence in his will, we have, as appears by your letter, every reason and mo- tive that we could well desire, under our present trial ; which, while it constrains us to weep, reminds us at the same time, that we ought not to sorrow as those who have no hope ; since our dear departed friends, at their death, have left us such comfortable ground for hoping, that they have fallen asleep in Jesus, and are now at rest ^vithhim. And in such circumstances it becomes us^ 238 LETTERS. not only to weep as though we wept not, but to be sat- isfied and thankfid ; persuaded that these events which may appear to be most against us, may be easily made, and certainly are adapted, to work for us. Indeed, if we are in the bonds of that everlasting covenant, which our God has made with his people through his beloved Son, by whose blood it is sealed and established, and which in all things is so ordered, and so sure, that it is sufficient to be all our salvation and all our desire ; we may then rest assured, that all things shall infallibly work together for our good. One special good effect^ among others, which this very afflictive dispensation of Providence should produce upon all of us who suffer under it, is to withdraw the heart from its dependence upon the creatures, and lo engage the soul to seek its rest and happiness in the Creator alone, who is the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. Happy in their consequences will be those strokes of death, which have smitten the delights of our eyes, and the joys of our hearts, if they be only sanctified, (for which we ought fervently to pray) thus to lead us to choose the Lord alone for our portion, and to rejoice in him, as the God of our salvation, in whose favour alone our life can be found, and from whose love in Christ Jesus our Lord, his people shall never be separated, neither by life, nor by death, by things present, nor by things to come. Let our great care then be to secure, and to keep bright and clear, the evidences of our interest in his fa- vour, and to approve ourselves to him in the right and acceptable improvement of his dealings with us ; and in the way of obedience and submission to his will, trust- ing in the righteousness and merits of our all sufficient Saviour, let us wait upon him for his consolations^ LETTERS. 239 which are not small, and which then he will not fail to grant us in the measure which he sees will be best for us. If we continue submitting ourselves to him, and looking and praying to him, he will in his own time, bring light out of darkness, joy out of sorrow, and in his own way make the light afflictions of this life, which are but for a season, work for us a far more exceeding, and eternal weight of glory. Considering these tnings, and remembering that we are strangers and sojourners on earth, whose time of continuance here is short and most uncertain, let us moderate our grief for the loss which we feel from the removal of those who were so valuable and dear to us ; and let it be our principal concern, to be follow^ers of our departed christian friends, and of all others, who through faith and pa- tience are gone to inherit the promises ; so that with them we may, in due season, meet in that better world, where pious friends, shall, without any fear ofasepara^ tion, dwell together for ever with their Lord ; and mor- tality, with all its evils, shall be swallowed up in ever- lasting life and joy. I desire to be thankful, ray dear sister, for the sup- ports and consolations, which you, and my dear wife, and I trust, others of the family, have experienced un- der this heavy and distressing trial. And we shall, I persuade myself, continue mutually to remember our obligations to pray for each other, that as we are par- takers of the same afflictions, we may also be partakers of all seasonable and needful support and comfort, and find, that, as our day is, so is our strength ; and that the grace of our Redeemer may be found sufficient for us, to enable us to do and suffer the will of God, with a truly christian temper, to his praise, to the benefit of 240 LETTERS. Others, and fo the furtherance of our own salvation ! May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, the God of all cooifort, who comforteth his people in all their tribulations, be the widow's God, and the Father of all her fatherless children, and make his consolations abound to all of us, as our sorrows abound in this vale of tears. And as we shall successively be called hence, may we, by his grace, be prepared for the time of our departure, so that when we are dismissed from the body, we may be admitted to dwell for ever in the presence of our Lord ; receive the crown of righteous- ness, and enjoy that eternal life which he has promised to all his humble faithful followers. That God may be with you, and bless you, and all the dear afflicted family, is the sincere prayer of your aflfectionate, sympathizing friend and brother, ISAAC S. KEITH. TO REV. DR. G. CHARLESTON, MARCH 1794. MY DEAR FRIEND, JL OUR very valuable packet, by Capf. G. was received on the third of this month : together with a letter, by the same conveyance, from our dear sister S. In what temper of mind these truly accepta- ble favours found us, and how they affected us, Solo- mon has described much better than I could, when he says, " Hope deferred, maketh the heart sick : but ivhen the desire cometh, it is a tree of life." Nearly three months had passed^ since the date of our last in^ LETTERS, 241 telligence from our friends in Philadelphia. During a great proportion of (ha( time, we had been looking out, I fear with soQie measure of anxiety and impatience, for fresh information ; and not without the painful appre- hension, from the tenor of our last accounts, that the next might be in some respect or other, again afflictive. What thanks do we owe to our good God, who has so kindly disappointed our fears, and exceeded our hopes, in permitting us once more to hear good tidings, of the health and welfare of yourself and family, and of the re- maining members of our own poor family, who had escap- ed alive from the jaws of the devouring grave, which has swallowed up so many of our best and dearest friends, among the multitudes of your mourning city, whom death has carried away with the desolating violence of a wide spreading flood ! After all the messages of pain and sorrow, which for many months past we have been accustomed to receive and expect from poor Philadel- phia, to hear that God had stayed his hand in the way of judgement, -and seemed to have returned in the ex- ercise of mercy, to our surviving friends and connex- Bons, was welcome news indeed, and a most desirable cordial to our hearts. Blessed be the Lord, and with new and everlasting thanksgivings and praises, be his name exalted, who is merciful and gracious, and will not always chide, nor keep his anger for ever ; but though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion ac- cording to the multitude of his mercief?, and make his suffering servants glad, according to the days wheyein he has affiicted them ! Concerning the sermon ;* perhaps Mrs. K. and my- self, are too deeply and tenderly interested, in the soI° • The funeral sermon on the death of Dr. Sproat^ 31 242 LETTERS, cran and affecting occasion of it, to form an impartial judgement of tbe merit of the performance. To us it appears to be an excellent discourse, such as might be expected from the superior talents of its ingenious au- thor, judiciously adapted to the pecuh'ar circumstances in which it was delivered, and furnishing a just, honor- able, and instructive testimony to the piety and worth of the dear departed friends, whose characters it par- ticularly displays ; and in a manner which tends to give all the glory of what they were, to the distinguishing grace of God, and persuasively to invite others to be- come followers of them, as they were of Christ. Your kind expression?, of the high esteem, and filial affection, ■which I am well assured, j^our heart felt for your ven- erable colleague, and his amiable consort, who were to us the best and dearest of parents, have served to en- liven and strengthen the feelings of our friendship for you, and to increase the satisfaction, with which we were before cordially disposed to acquiesce in your claim, of being considered as a child of the family, to- gether with ourselves. O that we might all approve ourselves, through grace, the worthy children of such worthy christian parents ! And that you and myself, as well as those who are their natural offspring, may be known among the people, as the heirs of their faith and virtues, so that all who see us, may acknowledge, that we are tbe seed which the Lord hath blessed ! May yon, and I in particular, my dear friend, be bless- ed, not only with a large and increasing portion of the chrislian spirit, which formed the temper and conversa- tion of both those excellent one's of the earth, those precious servants of the Lord, ^vho walked so exem- plarily in all the commandments and ordinances of the LETTERS. 240 Lord, who were so lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death, were scarcely divided : but also of the ministerial gifts and graces, with which our dear father was so richly furnished, and so honorably dis- tinguished, as a faithful, tender, and useful pastor ! When such labourers are removed from their work, to their reward ; we who are left in the vineyard, should be awakened to double our diligence, that we may, as far as possible, supply the want of their services : and to this we should be animated by the thought, that if, like them, we are found faithful unto death, we shall, like them, in due time, be relieved from the burden and heat of the day, which it is yet our lot to sustain, and be graciously ordered home, to rest with them from our labours, and receive the promised crown of everlasting life. What a mournful scene, what a gloomy change, did your poor city exhibit, in consequence of that awful dispensation of a righteous Providence, with which it was visited ! In what solemn language did that visita- tion say, " Come, behold the works of the Lord, what desolations he has made in the earth !'* With what a loud voice did it speak, not only to those who were suffering under it, but to all to whom the tidings of it were published ! " Hear and fear, and do no more so wickedly, lest some worse thing come upon you !" And how much is it to be lamented, that such a correc- tion is likely to produce no better, or more lasting ef- fects, even in your city, which was brought so low un- der the chastising hand of God ! And that other cities and parts of our country, partakers with you in the same sins, have, in general, already wholly forgot- ten, if they ever manifested any disposition to consid^ !244 LETTERS. er, that the judgments which were inflicted on the Phi- ladelphians, happened to them for examples to other transgressors I ' Still, however, it is a consolation, though in some respects a mournful one, to ihe believ- er, to know, that such a dispensation will accomplish all the counsel and pleasure of the Lord, which it was appointed to fulfil ; perhaps by hardening some sin- ners, and ripening them for sorer judgments, if not for final destruction, as well as by bringing other sinners to repentance, and proQmting the spiritual improve- ment of (he people of God. In these latter respects, much good may be done by it, which is not visible to the eye of man. At all events, it is certain, that the Lord is holy in all his ways, and righteous in all his works ; and every part of the wise, great and good plan of his administration, in its proper time and manner will be completed. Let us be thankful for what he al- lows us to understand of his perfections, purposes, and works ; and when these are concealed from our \iews, and surpass our comprehension, let us reverently and submissively bow before him, and humbly adore the infinite and incomprehensible God, whose thoughts and ways are as far above ours, as the heavens are higher than the earth. In this city, while Philadelphia was sitting solitary, and sorely weeping in the days of her afiliction, and her miseries, some tenderly sympathized with her, many were alarmed for themselves, numbers of all de- nominations united in observing a day of fasting, humili- ation and prayer, (October 23,) and I know not but that a very few began to think that it was almost time, if they did not actually form some purposes, to repent and turn from their transgressions, that iniquity might ^ LETTERS. 24§, not also be their ruin. But the direful storm did not reach us ; the black cloud was dispersed ; our sky be- came again clear and ..erene ; and then the little ap- pearances of goodness, that were seen among us, amidst many shocking symptoms of insensibility andobduracyj that still prevailed, were like the morning cloud ; and as the early dew, they passed away. During the suc- ceeding season, every species of dissipation and licen- tious folly, and particularly all the incalculable evils which issue fro/n that modern Pandora's box, the thea- /re, have reigned and triumphed with all their former insolence, if not with increasing audacity. These things have made the hearts of tiiose who fear God among us, often tremble with apprehensions for the consequences in which they are likely to end. For my own part, I have long been of the opinion with you, that if reforma- tion prevent not, judgement is not far distant. So ju- dicious on this subject, and so applicable to the present circumstances of our situation, were some of the re- flections contained in your letter, that I have taken the liberty, of inserting a paragraph or two of them in our city Gazette; a liberty which I thought the laws of friendship, and your zeal to do good, would authorize. The same freedom has been used with a few pages of Dr. H*s pamphlet, who in drawing the picture of Phila- delphia's sins, the parent of her plagues, has present- ed us with an equally just and striking likeness of the iniquities of Charleston. All the hands that can afford any help in the war with the reigning and raging vices and follies of the times, ought, I think, to be brought into action. And if your strong arm can be stretched out so far, as to give the enemy a stroke here, I hope you will not regret the execution which it may do, oi* 246 LETTERS* the wound that it may inflict, or the alarm which it may spread. But after all, it is certainly not the arm of fiesb, on which we are to depend for success ; and therefore, as you have desired us to pray for you, so do you remember to pray for us. Andmay you, and we, and all the professed friends of God, unite and pray without ceasing, till the arm of the Lqrd awake and put on strength, and get him the victory, and triumph glorious- ly, in the destruction of the works of the devil, and in reviving, supporting, and promoting his own work and interests, in the midst of these years. It is with great pleasure that I reflect on your pres- ervation, to be employed, I hope, as a zealous and use- ful instrument, in carrying on this great design ; now especially, when your pious fellow labourer, having fin- ished the work which was given him to do, has gone to rest from his labours, and to receive the reward await- ing the good and faithful servant. I had no doubt but that you were led by the hand of God, from the scene of the awful calamity, to which so many of the inhabit- ants of your city were victims. Your return to Phila- delphia, must have been humbling and afflicting beyond what language could express. How changed the cir- cumstances, in which you resumed the exercise of your public ministry in your congregation ! What a change, in particular, in the family of our dear father, your venerable colleague ! I suppose you did not on that oc- casion forget to feel for us. Be assured we felt very tenderly for you. It is no small consolation, amidst all the other strong consolations, which the God of all grace and comfort, has infused into the bitter cup of our great and various sorrows, to learn, that your impaired health has been LETTERS. Q47 9 SO mercifully restored, and that amidst all your increas- ed labours, your strength has been so wonderfully in- creased. Is not this a most desirable confirmation, by experience, of the faithfulness of Him, who has prom- ised, " that as thy days, so shall thy strength be ?" The truth of this, Mrs. K. and I would hope, her poor husband also, in some small measure with her, has comfortably experienced under all the weight of that part of your trials, which has fallen so heavily up- on our afflicted family. Let us all unite our songs of thanksgivings and praises, to our compassionate God and Saviour, who, in the midst of deserved wrath, re- members undeserved mercies ; and as our afflictions and sorrows ha\e abounded, has made our consolations also to abound, by Christ Jesus. Let it be our concern and prayer, that the trial of our faith, and of all the graces which ought to be particularly exercised in such circumstances, may be sanctified to the purposes of strengthening, improving, and brightening them, so that they may be found unto praise, and honor, and glory, at the appearing of Jesus Christ. Then may we hope^ that our God, who has wisely led us all Ibis way in the wilderness, to humble us, and to prove us, will, by this dispensation, do us good in the latter end ; and for the temporal evils which we have sufiered, render to us double in spiritual and heavenly blessings in Christ Je- sus. I sometimes begin to wonder how you can per- form all the ordinary parochial duties of so large a con- gregation as yours, and yet prepare so many and such discourses as yours for the entertainment, and, I hope, for the instruction and improvement of the public, through the medium of the press. But a second thought reminds me that it is by the grace of God, that ^48 LETTERS. jrou are what you are, and thai you do what you doc Remember this, and be humble and thankful. Remem- ber also the account which you have to 2;ive of your Jive talents ; and be more and more dilii^ent in occupy- ing with them. Compared with you, I appear to my- self to be honored and entrusted with only one talent. This thought, I hope, I do not allow myself to indulge, with a view to excuse my ingratitude and unfaithful- ness, to the great Lord of all, from whom cometh down every goovl and every perfect gift ; but with a desire, that it should make and keep me humble. And the consider- ation of the very poor improvement which I ha\e made of this, if it has not been wholly buried, ou2;ht to cover me with shame and confusion of face, and to melt my soul into contrition and sorrow ; and it does actually often awaken my fear for the event of that day, when our Lord shall come to reckon with his servants. May the Lord grant, that we may both find mercy of the Lord in that day ! When will your other sermons, which you mention^ appear in print ? Allow me to be a debtor to you for both of them, without allowing yourself to cherish any hope, that such favours will be repaid in kind. But for your encouragement and comfort remember, that it is more blessed to give, than to receive. Mrs. K. returns her \ery thankful acknowledge" ments to you for that part of your excellent letter, which relates particularly to her. In the exercise of that faith, which is not only the great principle of spirit- ual action, but also as you justly represent it, of spirit- ual consolation in the christian, she was, I think, won- derfully strengthened, in the late season of great af^ fliction, in which it has been extraordinarily tried. LETTERS. 249 Through grace, I hope, she has glorified God in the day of visitation, and done some service to the cause of religion, by manifesting its power, in supporting and comforting the soul, under the pressure of some of the greatest troubles with which this evil world abounds. She is, however, always complaining of herself ; and I have always reason to consider her conduct as a re- proach to me ; and this will not surprise you, if you yet feel any thing of the power of the law of sin ; or if you have ever been much in the company of christ- ians better than yourself. We were not a little shocked to hear from your pub- lic papers, that your new play-house was to be opened about the beginning of February, amidst all the appre- hensions entertained, of a return of the awful calamity with which your city has been already so sorely scourged. The renewal of that scourging, I am inclin- ed to think, will depend more upon your moral behav- iour, than upon any natural causes. And in this view, so heaven daring, and provoking a return to folly, bodes ill. If the voice of ihe rod which you have fell, be not heard ; may you not expect that some heavier and more smarting strokes of it will be inflicted upon you ? Or if such chastisement shall be withheld, w ill it not be, because the Lord has said ; Why should ye be smiiiea any more ? Ye will revolt still more and more ? Rath- er let your city and ours, and you and myself, as indi- viduals, be chastised in any way in mercy, than thus given up in judgement. Concerning our coming to Philadelphia : we dare Kot yet venture to form any conclusion : but desire to discern, and submit to the Lord's will, to follow hii OO 25© LETTERS. guidance, and wait his time. Help us in this matter, a» well as in all our other affairs, by your prayers. In affectionate regards and prayers for Mrs. G. as well as yourself, Mrs. K. unites with your unworthy friend and brother, ISAAC S. KEITH. P.S. We have been informed that the Rev, J. Smith, has been instrumental in adding 60 or 70 persons, to the number of the communicants in his congregation, since the dreadful fever took place in your city. If this be true, and if these persons be hopeful converts, this circumstance affords strong encouragement to hope, that the awful calamity with which you were visited, has not been a lost dispensation, and that it may yet be followed with a more extensive blessing. Such ap- pearances demand fervent praises ; and furnish ground for pleasing expectations. TO WR. AND MRS. L. CHARLESTON, DECEMBER 6, 1796. MY DEAR FRIENDS, Vl iTH cordial affection, and a very tender sympathy, I take ray part with you in your af- fliction, under the late bereaving stroke of the holy hand of God, by which he has taken from you, your dear child ; a sweet lovely babe, whose pleasing, charm- ing countenance, forcibly impressed my mind, as I find it did the minds of some other observers, when he was solemnly presented to the Lord, and received into the LETTERS. 25k church at his baptism. On that occasion, and in the Terj serious and interesting transaction with the great and blessed God, our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, to whi<:h you were then called ; I trust you were, through his grace wilh jou, enabled in sincerity, and without reserve, to give him up, and dedicate him to the Lord, who had first given him to you ; desirous, and hoping, and believing, and rejoicing in the pleasing and comfortable persuasion, that your ofTering would be graciously accepted ; and that he should be the Lord's in the bonds of the well ordered, sure, and ever- lasting covenant, of which our dear Saviour is the bless- ed Mediator ; and which in all its glorious provisions, and great and precious promises, is fitted to be all our sal- vation, and all our desire. Was it not then the ultimate and highest aim of youraffectioHate desires and prayers in favour of your dear and beloved infant, that he might be finally and for ever with the Lord, in his heavenly kingdom ? Well ; you now have your wish. And how soon has it been accomplished, and gratified to the fullest extent T The lovely babe, that was lately the desire of your eyes, and that shared, I suppose, a sufH- cient portion of the tenderest affections of your hearts, has been, 1 doubt not, washed from the guilt and pollu- tion of his nature, derived from fallen Adam, by th^ blood of Christ our Saviour, and sanctified by the Spirit of grace, and is now safely and happily lodged in the arms and bosom of its Heavenly Father, and Divine Re- deemer, with alt those blessed little children, of which the kingdom of Heaven eminently consists ; and where it is infinitely better provided for, than it could be with you, in this present evil world. From thence, as you know he cannot, so, I believe, you would not dare to 252 LETTERS. wish, that he should return to you, to partake with Tou in the various evils of this state of sin and sorrow, from which he has been bO earlj and so kindly taken away. And do you hope, that you will in due time go to him, to d'vvell there with him, and wiih all who are redeemed to God by the blood of the Lamb, and are there made perfect in holiness, and raised to fulness of joy in the presence of the Lord T In ihe mean time, have you the consolation of believing and being assured, that the Lord doth all things well ; that all his paths towards you, are mercy and truth ; and that all things, through his sanctifying blessing, shall work together for your good ? Surely then you must feel your obliga- tions, and I trust you will, through grace, be according- ly disposed, to weep for your temporary loss of the satisfactions and pleasures, which you were beginning to enjoy in your dear babe, as though you wept not : to rejoice in all the remaining comforts of life, as though you rejoiced not ; holding them also resigned to the Lord's disposal, and ready to be given up to him at his call ; to glorify him by a cheerful submission fo his will in all things, and cordial approbation of all his deal- ings with you, and dispensations towards you, and earn- est prayers and endeavours that you may comply with the wise and gracious designs of them all ; and to as- pire more ardently, and to press forward more diligent- ly and vigorously, in the way of faith in the Redeemer, and obedience to his gospel, tov/ards that blessed world, where there shall be no more sin nor death ; nor any more tears, nor occasions of them ; but where ho- liness shall be complete ; and joy shall be full and ever- growing, and all the work shall be love and praise, through all the ages of a blessed and glorious imraor- LBTTERS. 258 talify. With such views of the wise counsels of God our Saviour, respecting ourselves, and all that we hold dear lo us, and of the salutary tendency and desirable effects of all his dispensations, even the most afflictive that we have ever felt, or may yet be called to suffer ; the aspect of affliction appears to be greatly changed. Notwithstanding all the severity with which, in some cases, it seems to frown upon us, it must be, at the same time, presented to our minds, as a genuine fruit of our Heavenly Father's love, and as a necessary and sea- sonable proof of his covenant mercy and faithfulness ; ordermg a painful trial of a few moment's continuance, for the desirable purposes of yielding to us the present peaceable fruits of righteousness, and of working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Under the impressions which such views, accompanied by the influences of the good Spirit of God, are adapted to make Jipon our hearts, we shall feel oursehes led to say, with some small measure at least, of the mind that was in our blessed Saviour Jesus Christ, in respect to the greatest trial and conflict that may be appointed to us ; " O my Father, if this cup may not pass from me, except I drink it ; thy will be done !" When his grace has brought us to this temper and mind, it will not only "make submission very sweet, in what is most contrary to nature" (as my dear Mrs. Keith, often and often said she had felt it, and as, I trust, I also have found in my own experience,) but it will dispose us to bless the chastising hand of our Heavenly Father, in the most painful dispensations of his providence, and to say, with our excellent friend Newton, *' 'Tis my Jiappiness below, J\''ot to live ivithout the crt^s ;. ,» 254 LETTERS, But the Savioui's power to kno-»v\, Sinictifiiing every loss. Trials must and will befal ; But, with humble faith to see J^ove inscribed upon them all ; This is happiness to me. Trials make the promise stueet : Trials ^ive new life to prayer ; Trials bring me to his feet ; Lay me lowy and keep me there." ALSO COWPER. ** Ye fenrful saints, fresh courage take ; The clouds je so much dread, Are big- ivith mercies, and shall break In blessi7igs on your head." AND NEWTON AGAIN. " Since all thiit T meet> shall work for my good ; The bitter is sxveet, the med'cine is food ; Tho' painful at present, 't w ill cease before long : And then, O how pleasant, The conqueror's song !" Through grace, I think I have been enabled, under my great trial, to enter a little more deeply and fully into the spirit of the above lines, and of such sentiments and views as they express. And under the influence of them, and in some measure, of the experience of their power and efficacy, I think, I found and felt, that it was good, that it was desirable for me to be aflSicted, as I was, in the tenderest feelings of ray nature, and the dearest interests and comforts of this mortal life ; and I believe I owe it as a debt of gratitude to the God of all grace, for his ?aiost unmerited, free, rich, sovereign grace experienced, to acknowledge to his praise, that as my afflictions abounded, so his consolations also were made to abound to me, by Christ Jesus, my Interces- sor and Redeemer ; so that the season which was in ■aany respects the most trying that I have ever suffer- LETTERS. 25j ed, was at ys\em, my vanity : wisely judging, that if this can be sufficiently excited, the other will be ab- sorbed, and lost in this, and that this also may ere long^ spend itself by its oivn natural evaporation. Let ttiese learned observations be considered as designed, if they are not so well adapted as jou might wish them, to convey an ingenious compliment to you, in return for Ihe very genteel and handsome compliment to myself, which fills the first paragraph of your last letter to me, tinder date the 2rth ult. LBTTSRS. 29r Now let me go on with the plain careless langnage, 'which best suits a dull and lazy creature, to whom invention and the labour of polishing, are exercises too burden ^ome and oppressive, to be long submitted to. With you, I wish, that by some means or other, eith- er by our own resources, or some funds of sacred and pious destination, both you and myself, could obtain abundantly larger supplies of those excellent little pamphlets, to which you refer, for charitable distribu- tion. I think, that to many of those to whom they may be handed, they are well adapted to be useful, and in many cases, it is to be hoped, that they are pro- ductive of good effects, far surpassing their pecuniary Talue. In this way, as well as in many others, I per- suade myself, thai I would do more eood, than I do, or than I well can. Sorne people, I believe, suppose my means to be much more ample than they are. For the worldly possessions, with which I am intrusted, I de- sire to be fervently thankful to a most kind and boun- tiful Providence ; and to the glory of the giver, the great Lord of all, I would willingly improve them. With respect to provisions and accommodations of a personal and doniestic nature; I do not allow myself to indulge in expenditures, which would in\olve the reality, or the appearance of luxury or extravagance. And yet, for a number of years past, the whole of my income, and sometimes, more, has been expended. If any of it has been employed to the purpose of doing good : that portion of it, I consider as the best improv- ed and enjoyed ; and not unto me, but unto the God of all grace, from whom cometh down every good gift, who furnishes the means, and forms the disposition for usefulness, be all the praise and glory. 38 298 LETTERS. While I lament with you, the truly deplorable state of religion, in and about Boston, &c. it is pleasing to find oar common worthy friend, Dr. M. so nobly con- fending for the faith once delivered to the saints, in his performance called, "True reasons ;" and I have been niuch gratified with the perusal of four numbers of the jieriodical work, entitled the Panoplist, &:c. in which, he 110 doubt tabes an active, and important part, with a number of able and zealous co-adjntors. I wish this work could be extensively circulated among us. But alas ! for want of un agent, qualified, and willing, and having time, &c. for obtaining subscriptions, delivering the pamphlets, and collecting the money, &c. I fear that they will be seen and read here by only a very few persons. I mean to write to Dr. M. shortly, if Providence permit ; and I mean to order some more of the best small tracts, &c. on my own account, for charitable distribution ; and when received, perhaps I may send you a few of them. You and I, as I think, if "we were together, would in many cases and respects, harmonize in counsels and measures, for doing good : though perhaps, as my passions may be a little cooled by the chilling hand of time, I might not be found will- ing to go as far as your fervor would carry you, in combating the mistaken zeal of some people, who pro- fess to be, and some of whom, it is to be hoped, are really serving the same great and all important cause, in which, as we hope, we ourselves are engaged. I am glad to hear that Mrs* B. has found so much satisfaction, in the " Friendly visit to the house of mourning J ^ Af- ter perusing that excellent piece, nothing that I could write, would be worthy of her attention. But the best writings, or discourses of men, and indeed, the letter of LETTERS. 299 the word of God Itself, -r iil not prove effectual to com* fort those that mourn, unless accompanied by the en- lightening, sanctifying, strengthening, and consoling agency of the Spirit of grace. This I doubt not our worthy friend has in some desirable degree, experienc- ed ; and she will, I trusf, experience more and more of that heavenly peace, in the midst of worldly sorrows, and spiritual troubles, which God the Saviour, alone can bestow. Believing, and trusting, and hoping in him, with submission to his sovereign, holy, and bles- sed will, the soul finds its proper rest ; which it will in vain seek and expect, in creature comforts, and world- ly joys. And when our most pleasing hopes from the creature, are blasted, and all the brightest scenes of worldly joy, are overcast with clouds of the deepest darkness ; still happy, unspeakably, are they, who, with the prophet, can say, " Yet will 1 rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of my salvation !"^ Lord, increase our faith, that, in every hour of painful trial, this may be our real, our sweet experience. And have you, my friend, at length, got down from the mount of comfort and triumph, into the valley of humiliation, and doubt, and fear ? Very well ! When you are there properly humbled, you will be more highly exalted than ever before ; or at least, more comfortably established in the persuasion, and the experience, that you are nothing, and that Christ is All. A christian, always rejoicing and triumphing, free from all anxiety and apprehension, about the stale of his soul, or his title to glory, has probably, either some extraordinary labours to undergo, or peculiar sufferings and trials to endure, on • Habfck. iii. 17, 18. 300 LETTERS. earth ; or i«! probaMy, very near to that rest which re* maineth to the people of God, in the heavenly state. Yet, it is a most desirable thing, to have our calling and election, to eternal life, made sure to our own souls. For this, let us gi\e all diligence ; and may the Lord add his blessing, which alone can give a successful and comfortable event to the means, and endeavours, which we are required to use. If I have any well founded claim, to the character of a christian, and to the hope of Heaven, I am surely one of the meanest, and most unworthy of the number of those who are so highly privileged ; and if I am finally saved, it must be as through fire. Oh what a debt of gratitude shall I owe for ever, to his grace and power, and how sweet and an- imated will be my song of praise, to the adorable au- thor of my being and rede option, and of all my mer- cies, through all the periods of a blessed and glorious immorlality I ! JMrs. K. joins me in very affectionate regards to Mrs. F. and yourself, and in sincere prayers for her. Yours, very affectionately, ISAAC S. KEITH. TO DR. F. CHARLESTON, FEBRUARY 15, 1806. MY DEAR FRIEND, 1 HE newspapers of this morninoT, having announced the arrival again of Bythewood, re- minding me again, after having reminded me, I believe, more than once before, that I still remained in debt to you, for your long, and very good letter, under date LBTTERS. 201 the 81 sf December, ullimo ; which, however, was a cousiderabie tune on its way to me: so that, 1 believe, that it is not yet much more than a month since I re- ceived it. Apologies of the saine tenor, if not of the same date, for my apparent negligence, I could easily of- fer; but even for that I have not now time ; and, there- fore, let it now suffice to remind you of any (brmer pro- posed terms of correspondence with you ; to which you, if not with the free and full consent of your mind, yet at least by your frequent practice, have testified your approbation, or your toleration. I feel very much gratified, and I desire to be very- thankful, that you took in such good part, the hints which I presumed to suggest, on a subjett, on which your church and your pastor, were mutually interested. If I know my own heart, I cordially esteem and love both the parties in this case; and would most earnestly wish, that the interests and the conveniencies of both, might be so arranged and accommodated, as to be pro- moted, in the most perfect harmony, and to entire mu- tual satisfaction. What you say, by way of apology, for, and in favour of, the church, 1 forcibly feel ; and having in like manner felt for its pastor, I now feel with peculiar satisfaction, the consoling considerations sug- gested in your letter, which authorize the pleasing hope^ that the parlies concerned, who have had occasion for bearing with each other, may soon find their respective difficulties and apprehensions removed ; and their mu- tual services to, and comforts in, each other, much in- creased and happily prolonged. As I only snatch a few fugitive minutes from the studies of Saturday, for scrawling this, I cannot now do what is in my heart, if I had leisure; but 1 can only, at present, commend you respectively, to the instruction, direction, keeping and 302 LETTERS. blessing, of our comrnon Lord and Saviour, friend and benefactor. May he bless you all, and make you both, present and everlasting blessings to each other ! I am often tempted to wish that I were as rich as Croesus ; as I think, that I would then relieve your church, and all my friends from all their difficulties, F.ris- ing from their want of pecuniary resources. But I know who He is, that has the riches of heaven and earth at his disposal, and at the same time, loves his church and his people, individually, infinitely better than I do; and yet, for wise and good purposes, some- times places them in straitened and embarrassing cir- cumstances, and leaves them for a while, to pray and wait in faith and hope, before he gives them the desires of their hearts, or shews them, in all the desired evi- dences and fruits, the favour and love which he cherish- es for them. He doth all things well : and all his dis- pensations towards your church are, as I trust, design- ed, and will be ultimately found, ordered and sanctifi- ed, to work most effectually for the good of those who belong to it, and who sincerely seek its good. With respect to what you say of the plan which yourself, and some of your friends have thought of, for serving the church by the purchase of lottery tickets, I can now only, in a general way, observe, that if the design of a lottery can ever be justified, or excused, it must be when the object is evidently an important good. Yet how far such a good may be attempted to be accom- plished by such means, may still be questioned. It is a subject, however, on which wise and good men have dif- fered. And what shall I venture to say, more than let him, that ventures in this business, take heed that he acknowledge God in all his ways, and that his glory be the great end at which he aims, and that he be so well LETTERS. 303 persuaded, in his own mind, as that he shall not con- demn himself, for the thing which he does. We have had in our family, since the beginning of the present year, the deeply afflicted widow of a cler- gyman, the Rev. J. W. of Connecticut ; who, in pursuit of health, was coming on to the southward, but died on the passage from Norfolk to this city. Mr. W. ap- pears to have been a very pious, zealous, active, and useful minister of the gospel ; and Mrs. W. has exhibit- ed the most satisfactory evidences of sincere piety, and of strong faith ; as well as of the most affectionate at- tachment, to her late excellent husband. She supports, indeed, a truly worthy and amiable character : and as she has consented to stay with us, as one of our family, till the weather in the spring, or beginning of summer, shall promise a safe, speedy, and comfortable passage, by water, to her four young children, and other friends : we cannot but consider her company, during these few months, as a most desirable acquisition to the society of our small family. Your cordial friend, ISAAC S, KEITH. TO DR. F. CHARLESTON, APRIL 5, 180G. MY DEAR FRIEND, l^APT. L. delivered some few days ago, your favour of March 29th ; for which I return you my sincere thanks ; and by which T ought to be humbled, quickened and improved. If I am not thus benefitted by it, the fault will not be in your letter, but in my own / 304 LETTERS. heart ; which alas ! under the best means of culture, is often found as hard as the beaten high way, and as un- piodnclive, as (he thorny ground. Oh ! that it were more tenderly impressed, and suitably affected, by the expressions and evidences, of an higher degree of life and fervor in the hearts of my christian friends ; and that it may be effectually softened and fertilized, by the dew of heavenly grace, the influences of the spirit of grace, descending upon it, in rich supplies, ac- cording to its pressing wants ! As you feel for your dear children, J think I have often felt for the souls of my dear pastoral charge, over whom I ara called to watch, as one that must give an account ; and for whom it becomes me to cherish the most tender solicitude, that I may give up my account of my ministry among them, not with grief, but with joy. But ah! in how small a degree do my warmest feelings correspond with the unspeakable importance of the trust, committed to me : how soon are those feelings checked and cooled, if not dissipated and lost, by a thousand vanities and little objects of earth and tinie, which are scarcely worthy of a moments attention, or a serious thought : and when they have their greatest influence, how fee- ble are the exertions to which they prompt, how small the good effects which they produce ! Who ? Oh who, is sufficient for these things? What a consola- tion, that the humbled and the penitent, may in faith, come to a throne of grace, and to the God of all grace, by Jesus Christ, and hope to find mercy, and obtain grace in every time of need, and according to all their necessities ! May you and I more and more feel, how empty and how poor we are ; and find all our need, more and more abundantly sup- plied, according to the glorious riches of the grace of LETTERS. 305 God in his beloved Son, and from that fulness, which dwells in Jesus Christ our Lord ! For a week past, Ave have had the Rev. Mr. B. of Tennessee, in our city. A leading object of his visit, is to collect money for carrying on the benevolent de- sign in which he has been for some time deeply engag- ed, of educating the children of the Indians, of the Cherokee nation, and of civilizing and evangelizing, those poor savages. On the same errand, he took Sa- vannah on his way, where he met with very considerable success. Before he leaves us, which he expects will be in the course of next week, I hope he will be so far successful as to make it worth his while to have called upon us ; though he will probably receive much less aid from us than he would have done at some seasons, and in circumstances different from the present. The times are now hard, irom the uncertainty of the state of things in Europe, and the stagnation of the wales of cotton, &c. here ; je{ we have to shew away in all the dissipating scenes of vanity and indulgences of luxury, at an undiminished expense: while the calls of private, and public charity, are daily pressing upon us. Just before Mr. B. came among us. Dr. F. and myself, in compliance with the earnest request and recommenda- tion of the clergy of Philadelphia, had undertaken to collect what we could for the purpose of assisting in the accomplishment of that noble object of chariiy, the translation of the scripttires into the languages of In- dia ; an account of which you have no doubt seen in our newspapers ; and we had received several hun- dred dollars. Some additional contributions we might have received ; but a considerable part of what we 306 LETTERS. might have expected, will now, probably, be given t^ Mr. B. and much good may he do with it ! I was speaking of Mr. B. and the object of his visit. He expects to leave town on Saturday for Dorchester, and on his way back to Tennessee. While in our city, he has been instant in season, and out of season, not on- ly in receiving the free gifts of the benevolent and gen- erous, and the forced contributions of the selfish and the stingy, but in preaching the gospel to the white and the black, the free and the bond, the old and the young, the rich and tbe poor, the Independent Con- gregationalists, the Scotish Presbyterians, the Orphan' House, congregation of all religions, and noth' ingarian -principles, the Episcopal Methodists, ^he Antipoedobaptists, &c. &c. &c. He appears to be a truly pious and very zealous man, and so far from spar- ing himself, he seems to be determined to spend and he spent, in the work and service of the Lord, and for the salvation of precious immortal souls. His preach- ing is on the extempore form, and very much in the man- ner of the Methodists, His delivery h fervent indeed, I may say, vehement ; and though his discourses reach from an hour and ten minutes, to an hour and iwQuij minutes, Sec. yet after a few introductory sentences, his words flow with a rapidity, far surpassing what I have ever witnessed in any public speaker, and of which they who have not heard him, might form perhaps a tolerably just idea, if they have ever seen and heard the falls of Niagara. In the course of this torrent of eloquence, many expressions occur, marked with pa- thos and energy, and conveying ideas highly sublime, and deeply interesting and impressive ; but they pass so quickly, that the mind is left to regret, that it is not allowed more time to perceive their beauty, and fee! LETTERS, 30i tlieir force. I wish that he and our worthy, good friend, (I shall not now name him, but you know him, and I believe we both esteem him as one of the most <3eserving, and modest, and difl5dent of the young cler- gymen of our acquaincance,) could meet, on middle ground, and there settle their wide differences, about pauses, and resting places, in the course of a sermon. But I suppose that if Mr. B. were to attempt, to rein in his imagination, his feelings, and his utterance, he would be in danger of making a baulk, or of turning entirely out of his way ; and 1 suppose that the greater nurrsber of those to whom he generally preaches, and among whom he appears to have been eminently useful, would not be gratified by any change in this respect, which in their view, might seem to be indicative of a declen- sion of life and fervor 1 On the whole, I cannot but view him, as one of the best qualified, that 1 have yet mei with, for sustaining the character, and fulfilling the duties of a missionary, in those spheres, where the labours of missionaries are chiefly employed. It^is how- ever, but a part of his time, that he employs in mis- sionary services ; for he has the charge of two Con- gregations, in Tennessee, bordering on the Cherokee nation : while he has been instrutnental in collecting, and organizing several other churches in that country. His health has already been greatly impaired by his exertions, and exposures, insomuch, that at the age of 33, he looks like a man of 45 : and if his labours, &c. are continued, as heretofore, his constitution must, erelong, sink under the pressure. But he seems to think that a man may do as much work in afeiv years, as he might do in many ; and that if he accomplishes the work, which his Master has given hira to do, it is no matter how soon he finishes it, and goes to his rest. So much for the 308 LETTERS. master : I must not now aliow myself, to omit mention- ing his servant, John : a young black man, who is aU so a preacher ; and who has been preaching e\ ery day, and soiietimes more than once in the day, to numbers of his colour here; among whom there are promising appearances of his doing much good. I invited him to address the black people, who usually assemble at my house, at morning prayer, and in great numbers on Sab- bath mornings. He accordingly did so, yesterday, (Sunday) morning ; and as notice had been communi- cated, before hand, a great crowd attended ; to whom he spoke on the subject of the ivedding garment , it be- ing Sacramental Sabbath, in a manner, very solemn and impressive. His language was generally good, and correct ; his pronunciation scarcely marked with any peculiarily, such as might be expected, in one of Lis colour and station, and his voice remarkably clear, strong, and pleasant. His discourse, though not strict- ly methodical, or connected, w^as well adapted to his audience, and contained important doctrines and senti- ments, delivered with earnestness and propriety. It attracted great attention, and seemed to reach the hearts of many. He makes an excellent prayer ; and sings admirably well. In short, he appears to be a very sensible, well informed, modest, pious, zealous christian ; and well qualified, to be the minister of much good, to many, and especially, to those of his own colour. He at present belongs to Mr. B. who has the highest opinion of his character, in every point of view ; and who, with the assistance of some friends, purchased him, for upwards of five hundred dollars, with a view of giving him shortly, his freedom. His form- er owner would not have parted with him, for double the above sum ; if it had not been, with this view, to his ul- LETTERS. 309 fimafe freeclora, &c. Our amiable and dear friend, MiS. W. who is si III whh us, when she saw the nmlti' lude of black people collected^ and fheir black brother rise up for the purpose of preaching to them, the gos- pel of Christ, our common Lord and Saviour, one of the glories of which is, that it is preached to the poor, could not suppress the tears of sensibility and joj ; and was much affected and gratified, hy the whole of the services, and by all the circumstances of the occa- sion, so solemn and so interestinii;, and to her, so new, and uncommon. He is to address i he black people again at aij iiouse torucrrow. Does not this look like " Eihiopia, stretching out her hands to God ;" and welcoming the dixine Mei.siah, the desire of all na- tions? "Let the whole earth be speedily filled with his glory. Auien ! and Ariien !" A church weeiing. is to lake place in our new circu- lar building, on Meeting Street, this day wetk, viz. Monday the t4th insl. When, I suppose, the day for opening that church, for public worship, will be ap- pointed, of which you will receive due notice ; that if convenient, Mrs. F. and yourself, may be present on that occasion. Capt. Lawrence, intinjates that Mr. P. may be ex- pected here, by By Ihewood, next trip. We have still, house and hearl-room for him, and will be clad to see him, on many accounts ; and \ have many things to say to him, that I cannot well write, either from lazi- ness, or want of time. Your very sincere, and affectionate friend, ISAAC S. KEITH. N.B. For this last sheet, you are indebted to Mr. L's delay, and to a severe cold, which has kept me at home to day. 31t LETTERS. TO MRS. S. W. CHARLESTON, JUNE 21, 1806. A HE kind, affectionate, and excellent letter of our very worthy, and amiable, and dear friend, written chiefly at sea, and from day to day, during the passage from this port to New York, was received by us from the Post office, on Monday the 16th inst. And as it conveyed some of the pious sentiments and refined feel- ings of your heart, and brought us the pleasing informa- tion of your safe arrival at New York, it was most wel- come and acceptable to us. The pleasure which it gave us, we could not think of enjoying as exclusively our own, but have, on the principle of doing to others, as we "Would have them do to us, liberally shared with sever- al of your good friends here, by allowing them the pe- rusal of it ; and they have evidently shared with us, a peculiar satisfaction, in hearing that your passage was so short, as that of only one week, and that it was on the whole so agreeable. Jt is hoped that they and we, unite in sincere gratitude and praise, to the merciful preserver of men, and the munificent Benefactor of his people, for the favour of his kind Providence, in con- ducting you safely and comfortably, to the land in the city of New York : where, considering how short is the distance between that place and Farmington, and how apparently safe and pleasant would be the means of conveyance, compared with the length of the way, the tossings and the risques through which you had already LETTERS. 311 passed, you must have felt yourself almost within sight of home. " While she surveys the much lov'd spot. She slights ihe space which lies between. Her past fatigues are now forgot. Because her journey's end is seen. Thus, when the christian pilgrim views, Br faith his mansion in the skies, The sight his fainting breath renews. And wings his speed to reach the prize." NEWTON, 3d Book, 58th Hymn. Since you left that " much lov^d spot,^' what changes have you seen, through what scenes have you passed, what triads have you felt, what mercies have you experienced ? Surely you will ever, with an adoring mind, remember the way in which the Lord thy God hath led thee in the wilderness, through which thou hast travelled, during these memorable months of thy life, in which he has been humbling thee, and proving thee, that he might discover what was in thine hearty which required correction or improvement ; see Deut, viii, and that he might give you such views of his holi- ness, wisdom, and grace, as were eminently adapted to try and to increase your faith and hope, your submission and patience, your love and gratitude, your peace and joy. Was not this, then, " the right way in which you should be led," the best way which could be chos- en and pursued, for the benevolent purpose of " doing you good at your latter end V Oh happy, thrice happy they, whose God is the Lord, even their God in cove- nant, their sun and shield, their guide and guard, their saviour and portion ; giving an all sufficiency of present grace, and crowning that grace with future, immortal, inconceivable glory ! And how high their privilege 312 LETTERS. and satisfaction, when they feel themselves authorized and enabled lo rejoice, that the Lord tkeir God and Saviour reigns; and that "their times are in his hands;*' persuaded, that ** he doth ail things well," that " all his paths towards thetn, are mercy and truth," and that " all things shall work toirether for their good." Thus have you been privileged and blessed! And how sweet have been the humiliations, and the transports of your soul, in the view, the hope, the as- surance of your being thus highly favoured of the Lord ! If my soul be yet a stranger to these views and hopes, to these exercises and consolations, yet would I rather, ten thousand times rather, be experi- mentally acquainted with them, than be the possessorof all the kinscdoms of the world, with all the glory of them. For sure I am, that none but they, whom the Lord thus condescends to honor and to bless, and whom his grace prepares and disposes to rejoice in him, as the God of their salvation, and as the Father of mercies to them, c^n be happy in this world, or in the world to come. But T must remember that I am not now writing a ser- mon, but a letter. To return then, to the *' much lov'd spot :" to your lo7igr desired liome, after so tedious an exile from it, and such vicissitudes of trouble and of com- fort, as you have experienced, during the trying months of your absence, you were at length, as we fondly hope, graciously restored, within a few days from the last date of your interesting communications, sent on to us, immediately after your arrival in New York. The va- rious emotions with which your own heart, and the hearts of your friends, must have been agitated, on the occa- sion of your meeting again ; the sweet satisfactions of the interview, and the painful sorrows, all revived and LETTERS. 313 brought back in full force to the wounded, bleedinadflfe Jieart, by the recoliectJoii,andthe feeling of the might^^^^ void, which the awful hand of death had made in the society, and the comforts of the family, and the circle of friends, lately so full and so pleasing in enjoyment, and in prospect ; the high re&pect, affection, and con- solatiGny cherished for the memory of the departed husband, father, pastor and friend ; the gratitude rising to the God of the widow, and the Father of the father- less, for all the kindness which his providence has shewn to the bereaved ; the anxious cares and appre- ]iensious entertained for their future comfort and wel- fare ; and the soothing humble confidence, inspired by the promises of the covenant, that the Lord will pro- vide for, and never leave nor forsake those who trust in him : these, and such like emotions, experienced on an occasion so affecting and interesting, we can in some degree imagine ; but you, we know, must have realiz- ed them, in a degree, which even your own ready, and fertile pen, cannot half describe. May eyery pleasing and painful sensation, every piou3 and worthy feeling, ex- cited and renewed, by your return to the scenes, once so delightful, now so greatly changed ; and all the circumstances which have attended your meeting with your dear family and friends, be divinely sanctified to yx)u and to them ; so that your Heavenly Father may be glorified in, and by you all, through Jesus, your Re- deemer, and your strength ; and so that your own best, your spiritual, and immortal interests, may be emi- nently promoted ! We expect that as soon after your return home, as you can find sufficient leisure, you will give us some account of these matters 5 and tell us more about those worthy 40 314 LETTERS. and dear friends, concerning whom you Lave told U9 so much already ; and that you will mention particularly^ every one of your. dear little children, and say some- thing about them, that will be 2;ratifying to our feelings, and encouraging to our hopes. May our blessed, and dear Lord and Saviour, who gathers the lambs in his arms, and carries them in his bosom, take them into the arms of his mercy, press them to the bosom of his love, and bless them wilh his grace and salvation, and thus prepare them for his kingdom of glory ; to which he has already removed their excellent father^ and where their amiable mother, will in the time appointed, be admitted to join with him, and all the redeemed and the sanctified, to behold the glory of the Lord, their Sa- viour, to triumph in the praises of the triune God, and to partake of that fulness of joy, which is in his presence for ever ! It was indeed, painful to my feelings, to leave you on board Ihe brig, before the other passengers had come. But you know the imperious circumstances which re- quired my returning home. And I am now pleased with the very circumstances which then gave me pain : as the solitary hour which you spent in that unpleas- ant situation, furnished you with the opportunity of beginning your journal letter, and of expressing the feelings of your heart, in reflecting on the parting scene, which we find were in unison with our own, gloomy and depressed, in the prospect of the voyage before you, which in many points of view, would naturally be an- ticipated by you with anxiety and apprehension ; and also, from the experience of our own great and deeply regretted loss, when we were thus deprived of the pres- ence of a most valuable, and highly esteemed friend, LETTERS. 315 whose countenance, conversation, and society, were daily bringing her nearer and nearer to our hearts, from the first evening, to the last morning of her residence in our family, <* which seemed unto us but a few days, for the love we had for her."^ It was some consola- tion to find so many sharing in our love and regret, and best wishes for you. All your intimate acquaintance, seem to have become in a greater or less degree, your real friends : they felicitated us, on the pleasure and the improvement, which your company was adapted to afford ; they have sympathized with us, on account of the necessary separation, when it took place ; and they have rejoiced with us, for your own sake, and that of your family, &c. when they were informed of your having proceeded so far, and so comfortably, on youu way homeward. Let not these observations, make your pride or vanity, " rise and swell :" but remem- bering who has made you to differ from, and to excel others, either in the qualifications of nature, education, or grace, be humble and thankful, and act as it becomes one who knows, that of them, to whom much has been given, the more will be required, by the great Lord of all, who distributes at his sovereign pleasure, to one servant, one talent, to another two, to another five, &c. and who will judge and recompense them, according to their neglect or improvement, of the trust reposed in them. Your sea sickness, was, we hope, ultimately favoura- ble to your bodily health, as all unpleasant circum- stances, and painful events are, or are adapted to be, medicinal and salutary to the soul. While that * CJen. xxix. 20. SIG ^ LETTERS. sickness, and your distance from the ordinances of the sanctuary, prevented your enjoying much pleasure on the sabbath; it is to be hoped, that your kind christian re- membrance of the church in which you had been lately a worshipper, and the pious ejaculations of your heart, which ascended to God on our behalf, and on the par- ticular occasion of our dedicating our new house of wor- ship to his service, were graciously accepted, and hap- pily instrumental, through the intercession of our di- vine Mediator, in drawing down the blessings of heaven upon us. After being providentially detained with us, till the day preceding that sabbath, many other friends, with ourselves, very much regretted, that you were not allowed to enjoy that sabbath with us, on the first occasion of our assembling in that edifice. But so the Lord ordered it ; and as he doth all things well, you and v/e should ever feel it, as our duty, and our interest^ and our happiness, to say from the heart, the will of the Lord be done ! On the solemn and interesting oc- casion of our opening for public worship, that new, spacious, and handsome house, which we have builded for the Lord, we encourage the hope, that his presence was with us, that his blessing was upon us, that his peace was to th&t house, and that in the view of a num- ber at least, of the genuine worshippers there, it appear- ed to be filled with his glory. The building is estimat- ed, to accommodate v^'ith seats, including those in the gallery, about 1400 or 1500 people ; and it is suppos- ed, that on the day on which the church was opened, there were nearly 2000 persons present ; and very many, who came to the house, went away for want of room. From the circular form of the church, when filled with worshippers, the audience appears^ especially from the LETTERS. 31 f pulpil, io very great advantage ; although the inconven- ience of an echo, is felt in some parts of the building. On the occasion of opening this church, the subject of Dr. H*s discourse, was " Mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all nations."^ The subject of my discourse, was, ** I will fill this house with glorj."f As the church has requested copies of these discours- es for the press, you may in due time, have an oppor- tunity of seeing, and reading them in print. They are to be harmoniously associated in the same pamphlet, prefaced with an historical sketch of the church, and some account of its former ministers. You, I doubt not, will cordially concur, with the friends of Zion here, in the pious prayer, that this house may long stand as a monument, to the praise of God our Saviour, through whose good hand upon us, the work has been carried forward to the state, in which it is now fit for our use, at an expense of g5O,O0O ; and it cannot be completed for less than .^10,000 more : and that in this house, the power and glory of Divine grace, may be richly displayed, in the conversion of sinners, and the edification of believers, through a long succession of generations. We should be gratified in hearing that the prospect for your bereaved church in Farmington, is brightening, and encouraging. When I began this sheet, I thought of resigning a large portion of it to my dear Jane, who could easily have filled it up, more agreeably perhaps, than it has been done by my te- dious scrawling. But she has been rather indisposed, and suffered a good deal from a severe headache, for a few days past, and says she does not yet feel in a letter * Isaiah M. 7. | Haggai ii. 7, 318 liETTERS. writing frame. She therefore begs that she may be allowed to reserve her intended communications, till we receive your promised letter from Farmington, which we now expect within a very few days. As I observed to you, while you were wilh us, so I have found it since you left us, that it seems as if a thousand things more should have been said to you, and by you, which were omitted while the opportunity was enjoy- ed. And so it is, in respect to this letter : lengthy as it is, I seem to have communicated almost nothing of what I wished to write. But after all that can be writ- ten and said, it is only in eternity, that the redeemed will have time for telling all their minds to each other, and shewing forth all the praises of the adorable Author of their being, and God of their salvation, and of all their mercies. In the mean time, let us, *' Cheerful advance with growing strength. Till all shall meet in heaven at length ; Till all before his face appear. And join in noblest worship there." Pray for us, our dear friend. We endeavour to pray for you and yours, and you may rest assured, that you continue, and I believe ever will, to hold as high a place, in the esteem and affection of our hearts, as you could wish. That He who justly claims the su- preme and eternal love of all our hearts, may bless you, our very dear friend, abundantly and for ever, is the sincere language of the united hearts of your truly aflfectionate, I. S. AND J. KEITH. LETTERS. 31.9 '^^ TO- CHARLESTON, JULY 11, ISQS. Mr BEAR FRIEND, -T OR sometime pasf, I have been think- ing how long it was, since I had received a letter from you. Reflecting on this subject yesterday, 1 began to apprehend, that I had written, or done something, that had made my friendship appear to you, in a ques- tionable shape, or at least, deserving of some correction, which you had resolved to inflict, by maintaining this long silence; which 1 assure you was sensibly fell by me, and at length 1 became, if not really bumbled, at least so much mortified, and so uneasy under it, that I had almost determined to write to you, without having pre- viously received a line from you, and to ask, " What is the matter with you ? or. Wherein have I offended V* When, lo ! to day I am again favoured with a good long letter from you, dated July 5, which has cleared up my doubts, banished my apprehensions, and fully satisfied me that your heart, though it seems to have been a little moody with some of the human race, and to have had a little bickering with the world lately, has still continued to cherish sentiments of friendship, and dispositions of peace and good will, with my dear little Jane and myself. In this view, as well as in some oth- er respects, your friendly communications, have given us both a great deal of pleasure : I am afraid to say, perhaps, more pleasure, than it would have given, if these crooked circumstances had not intervened ; for 32Q LETTERS. then you might be (eiupted to try the same mean^ again, which perhaps, might not succeed as well again. For my part, what with ordinary atfairs, and some im- portant extra business, in which I have been lately en- gaged, and what with an old inveterate habit oi' indo- lence, and the present relaxing heat of the weather, I have fancied and persuaded myself, that 1 have scarcely found time or leisure, for writing to you again^ since I last wrote to you, which was, I know not when. And now, when I have taken up my pen, immediately after perusing your letter, in the hope of feeling my sluggish mind usefully influenced and animated, by a sense of your kindness, still fresh upon it. I find that it is no easy task, to .auster up a few ideas, to go along •with the few lines, which I am scrawling. As you have studied anatomy, and the influence of the ele- ments, &c. upon the human system, I need not here, by way of apology for myself, stay to shew, how easi- ly the almost vertical and burning beams of the sun, at this season, may penetrate through a small mass of brains like mine ; and how soon they may scorch to cinders, the small seeds, or young shoots of thought, vegetating there, or evaporate them all into smoke and clouds. So, the less I have to say for myself, the more matter I may furnish for the employment of your ingen- uity, and scientific researches, and calculations, and con- clusions. And perhaps, on a similar principle, if I had only philosophical and medical, and especially chemical knowledge enough, I might account for the complexion of your letter, which is rather gloomy and querulous. In yoiir more capacious cerebrum, fortified, with a bet- ter pericranium, the embryos of ideas, are not so easily or so soon calcined, or dissipated ; but they may have LETTERS, 321' SO far felt the calorific influence of the sun, as (o have been excited into a considerable fermentation, marked with strong acidities, and with loud and vehement explo- sions of perturbed sensibility : but, when the exciting cause is removed, this irritability, or irritation rather, of the nerves of the mind, will of course subside, and there will be a great, or a sweet calm. The sooner this important change takes place, the better. And as doc- tors generally, or at least, frequently, are the poorest physicians for themselves ; leaving you to prescribe to me, as you may find occasion : I shall now take leave to suggest a little advice, which may be useful to you. On the first day, after receiving this, on which you shall feel your spirits agitated and raised to a feverish heat, improve the first leisure hour, which you can command, and which you have a right to demand from those en- gagements with the world, which your situation re- quires, and which your religion sanctions, for the pur- pose of retreating to that charming shade, created by the Redeemer's banner of love, which he spreads over his friends, who are disposed to withdraw from the world, in order to enjoy communion with him, and un- der which they sit with great delight : there take up the glass of faith, which you will find lying ready for your use, upon the open volume of his word of truth and grace ; and placing this before your eye, out of which you have carefully cast every beam and mote, which would obstruct its vision, look steadily, through this, towards every point of the compass around you ; and when you have taken a deliberate survey of the world, and of your fellow mortals, " moving like shad- ows o'er the plain," then raise your glass towards the throne of your Lord ; and though at first you may see 41 3-22 LETTERS. Only clouds and darkness round about him ; yet will you soon begin to perceive light shining out of dark- ness ; and in his light, you will see light snfScient to shew you, that he ddth all things well, and that there is not a circumstance of your situation, or an event which befals you, by whatever secondary cause or agency produced, but what is ordered by infinite wis- dom, and sanctified by Divine grace, to work for your good. Before you are aware, you will find, that this sweet retirement, and this iateresting prospect, have cooled the fever of your mind, composed all its ruffled feelings and passions, and restored it to the enjoyment of a most desirable peace, such as the smiles of the world cannot give, nor its frowns take away ; a peace which your Lord alone can bestow, and which bis chos- en and beloved friends, usually enjoy in the highest perfection, when they are most harassed and oppressed by the tribulations, which they experience in, and from the world. Prohatnm esL Yes, my friend, I believe that you, and I hope that I, have often felt its sovereign salutary ef2cacy. But I think it probable, that you, as I know that I often stand m need of being reminded of this blessed remedy, this gen- uine catholicon ; and of being urged by much and impor- tunate persuasion, to try it again, especially when we are under an high worldly delirium, and are most incapable of judging what is best for us. This, I think, has brought me out of many an obstinate fit of pouting, or of the hypo, when I was not inclined to speak to any body, unless it was in pettish language, and when I wanted nobody to speak to me, unless it was in language that would flatter my pride, or encourage me in my ill hu- mour with the world, with which I was quarrelling, be- LETTERS. 323 V cause T thought it did not treat me as well as I deserv- ed. But, when I have not taken due pains to have my eje cleared of prejudice, and self-love, which always form a foggy atmosphere, or to have the glass sufficient- ly brightened by the application of a leaf of Divine truth, I have been obliged to look the longer, and again and again, before I could well see, that while I was not what I ought to be, all things around me were as they should be, arranged and ordered in the best manner, to impress upon my heart the lessons of heav- enly wisdom, to humble me under a consciousness of my own failings, follies, and offences ; and to recom- mend and endear to me more effectually, the blood and righteousness, the love and grace, and friendship of the blessed Redeemer, as the sinner's best friend ; and thus to do me good in the latter end. Such also, I suppose, has sometimes been your experience. From the ob- servations, indeed, which fill a page or more of your folio letter, I suspect that many of the scenes in this path of life, which you have trodden, have been very similar to those through which I have passed, in my pil- grimage through the wilderness of this evil world. How often has it smiled and flattered, and made the fairest promises, when it has been preparing to give the vexa- ation and bitterness of the most mortifying disappoint- ments ; but when aware of its deceitfulness, and refus- ing to trust to its friendship, we have taken the word and Spirit, and providence of God, for our guide and stay, we have then found the hostility of the world, made to minister to our welfare, and some of the keen- est pains which it had inflicted, turned into our sweet- est comforts. Let us then be cheered and encouraged, for the time to come. While we meet with so muck 324 I^BTTERS. vanif J and emptiness, in so many of the things of the world, and of our fellow mortals who dwell in it ; let ns be thankful for the few good things, and worthy, and valuable, and dear friends, which we enjoy in it ; and through all its varied scenes, let us walk by faith, and not by sight, leaning on our beloved Lord, whose ful- ness is always ready to supply all our wants, rejoicing in worldly comforts, as though we rejoiced not, and weeping under worldly sorrows, as though we wept not ; looking not at the things which are seen and temporal, but at the things which are not seen, and eternal ; firm- ly believing, and humbly exulting, in the persuasion, and the prospect, that " our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding, and eternal weight of glory." I do not wonder at your feelings, after reading Or- ion's Life of Doddridge. The perusal of that volume, made me feel so humble, and gave me such a degrading view of myself, that I often almost blushed at the thought of claiming the christian character, which shone with so much of its native beauty and lustre in Dod- dridge, or of raising even a trembling hope to that heavenly habitation, where his happy spirit now dwells, triumphing in grace, perfected in glory. But some lime afterwards, consulting with an old near neighbour of mine, Mr. Self, who, though I know him to be far from being as good as he should be, and have been, in many instances, shamefully duped and grossly injured by him, yet some how or other, possesses a most extra- ordinary influence over me ; he slyly insinuated, that in this admirable picture, which Orton has drawn of his friend, we have only, or chiefly, an exhibition of his ex- cellencies, which appear prominent and brilliant indeed. LETTERS. 32S while Lis defects are kept wholly out of view, and are thrown so far into the back ground, as to be scarcely visible; and he suggested further, that with such mental imbecility, as had fallen to my lot, it would be the ex- treme of folly, to attempt, to rival a man of such superi- or talents, as well of such pre-eminent piety: while he added, which I knew to be true, and which seemed to give a plausible, pleasing air of truth to ail the rest, that my bodily frame, especially in this debilitating cli- mate, would have long ago sunk into the earth, from, which it was taken, under one fourth part of the labours which the pious, the benevolent, the zealous, the inde- fatigable Doddridge, sustained. But if this same Mr. Self, should ever come in your way, I advise you to be very cautious in your intercourse with him ; for though he she^'s, at first, a very friendly, prepossessing coun- tenance, and possesses an eloquent, persuasive tongue j yet, trust not to these flattering appearances, nor be- lieve his much fair speech ; for he will deceive you, and do you a mischief, where he seems to intend you a kindness. Avoid him, therefore, as much as possible, and as often as you meet him, turn immediately from him, and go, and do like Doddridge, as far as you have ability and opportunity ; or, at least, nobly try to be a follower of him, as he was of Christ. ISAAC S. KEITH. TO MRS. W. CHARLESTON, AUGUST U, 1806 *'As cold water to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country ;" and so grateful and refreshing to 826 LETTERS. our spirits, was the excellent letter of our highly es- teemed, and very dear friend, of the 23d and •24th of Julj ultimo, which we received on the 11 Ih inst. For some time past, we seat to the Post-office, as often as the northern mail arrived ; but still found nothing there for us, from Farmlngton, but disappointment. For this, indeed, we may chiefly thank ourselves ; since, if we had consulted our judgment more, and our feelings less, we could not have aiiowed ourselves, to indulge any very sanguine expectations of a letter from you, much sooner than we were favoured with the one above men- tioned : and I am truly sorry, that an intimation, drop- ped by my unguarded pen, on that subject, should have given a moment's pain to your feeling heart, on account of your not being able to gratify our expectations, so soon as we and you also wished. The peculiar circum- stances of your situation, after so long an absence from home, and so great and afflicting a change in your fami- ly, and your having, since your return, such a multiplic- ity of affairs, and the almost incessant calls of so large a circle of kind and sympathizing friends, to occupy your attention, would have formed a sufficient apology, for even a longer delay of your much desired, and much valued, communications. And even when our affection- ate wishes, became almost impatient to hear from you, still would not our hearts cherish, for a moment, the thought of attaching any blame to you ; for we were sure, that your heart was not in fault. No, indeed ; never have we, in a single instance, been inclined to call in question, the sincerity, the affection, the good will, of your friendship for us ; while we have felt and regretted our inability to make due returns for it, in all those refined satisfactions, and important benefits, which LETTERS. 327 christian love delights in conferring, and would often communicate in a measure far, very far beyond its power. In the present case, if any of us have been blaaieable, it must be onrselve«?, rather than you ; as your second letter from New-York, which came, I be- lieve, by Capt. B-. and which we did not receive till some time after our letters were written to you, has not till now been mentioned. And the reason of this was, that we were then looking for another from you, and meant to take notice of both together ; and thus, at the same time, to avoid unnecessary postage, and to spare some labour in writing ; and you know, how agreeable to us, are all labour saving plans, and measures, in this warm, and relaxing climate. And much of this summer, has been unusually warm, though still very healthy in the city, and very favourable to the crops in the country. Your labour in writing, in a climate ranch more fa* vourable, both to bodily and mental exertion, you may consider as most agreeably compensated to you, by the pleasure, and the instruction communicated to our- selves, and some other friends, who have been favoured with the perusal of your last, as well as of your former letters. After such a remark, shall I now be allowed to intimate, that there is any thing in your last letter, I mean as to sentiment or expression, that is not pleas- ing ? Perhaps, rather, I should say that ought not to be pleasing ? For, should I be pleased with fiattery ? It was not, I am sure, yo^ir intention to flatter. But, ah ! my friend, yielding only to the impulse of your own grateful, benevolent heart, and not sufficiently aware of the vanity and selfishness of mine, you have incautiously indulged in a language, about as well adapt- 328 i»ETTERS. ed to preserve and promote that humbleness of mind, which is one of the first dispositions of the christian temper, and brightest ornament of the christian charac- ter, as a lighted match would be to secure gunpowder from an explosion. Yet, on the whole, what seemed in itself, not surely so designed by you, adapted to do me some harm, may, on the contrary, be productive of much good ; if it shall lead me to reflect, how fallible a criterion of onr character and state, is the opinion of our fellow mortals, while prejudiced enemies, censure and condemn, without knowledge or mercy, and partial friends approve and commend, beyond all truth and reason; if it shall admonish me, to consider how much better we should be, if we were even as good as we some- times appear to be, in the view of the kind friends, whose charity for us is such, that they can scarcely think anj evil of us ; and if it shall serve to remind me, how inestimable is the privilege of all real believers, who would do good, while evil is present with them ; and who, on account of that evil, cannot do half the good which they would, in having a divine Redeemer, mediator, high-priest, and advocate, who is the Lord, their right- eousness and strength ; who can be touched with the feeling of all their infirmities, who ever liveth to make intercession for them, and who, through his own aton- ing blood, justifying righteousness, and infinite merits, presents their persons and services, notwithstanding all their failings and imperfections, with acceptance to the most holy, and the most gracious God. Are we united by a vital faith to this adorable Saviour ; and are we complete in him, in whom all fulness dwells? Oh! how precious should he be to our souls ! bow deeply should we be humbled, on account of living so little by faitfc LETTERS. 329 in him, and in the promises of his gospel : and how much more should our souls be animated, with the fer- Tent desire, and holy ambition, of having that mind in us, which was also in him, and of being conformed to that perfect and amiable example, which he has left us, that we should follow his steps! Lord increase my faith, that the proper fruits of it, in love to God and man, of pure, disinterested, active, beneficent love, may more abound ! And now, what were the kindnesses shewn, or the services done, to our worthy and dear friend, for which she feels and expresses so much gratitude ? If we were instruments of any comfort, or benefit to you, this was altogether in consequence of the Lord's designs of mer- cy and love to you ; who, having all hearts in his hands, inclines every one to do for his people, just what he bath purposed and determined in their favour. If, on the principles of humanity, directed and sanctified, as we would hope, by the benign spirit of the gospel, we received you, in the first instance, as an afflicted stranger, to whom, in all cases, compassion should be shewn; in the course of the first evening, and much more in the course of the succeeding Lord's day, and still more so the longer you remained with us, we were constrained to receive you, as one whom our Lord had honored, with the distinguishing tokens of his love and favour, and had sent to us with some special recommen- dations, reminding us, that whatever kindness, in the spirit of christian love, we might shew to you, he would graciously consider and accept as done to himself. In such a case, christian sensibility could not, for a mo- ment, be at a loss, or hesitate, in determining what was to be done. And though christians, conscious of acting 42 330 LETTERS. on christian principles, may have respect, lo that future recompense of reward, which their Lord has promised, for their support and encouragement in the way of well doing, without being liable to the charge of selfishness, nay, with a double regard, to the honor of their Lord ; yet, in this instance, all the little which we did for you, in compliance with the intimations of his will, was, as far as we could desire for the present lime, most agree- ably repaid to us, by the satisfaction which we felt, in loving, and by love, serving one of the dear children of his family, and fellow-members with us, of the house- hold of faith, if to that sacred society, we indeed be- long ; and by the pleasure and improvement, which we found in the society and conversation of one, whom di- vine grace had eminently qualified, and particularly in the school of affiiction, to be an useful instructor and example to us. liow mtch reason, however, have we to be ashamed of ourselves, when we think, that the season of your stay with us, passed away so rapidly, and leit us so far in arrears, with respect to the payment of the debt of love, which we owed you | and so little benefitted, in respect to the improvement which we might have received from you, and from the providen- tial dispensations, which placed you with us, during those short months, as one of our family ! But what is the season, which we have ever enjoyed, or what the providence of which we have been the subjects or the witnesses, when it is passed, and when we reflect on our conduct respecting it, which will not appear, to fur- nish us with abundant reason for smiting en our breasts, and crying, "God be merciful tons, sinners !*' After the account, which you gave, in your first let- ter from home, of the stale of your feelings, under the LETTERS. 331 pressure of the kindnesses of friends, and the heavy load of familv cares, which you have now to bear, with- out having it now in your power, to resort to the ad- vice, the sympathy, the assistance of that dear com- panion and friend, on whose judgment, affection, and supporting arm, you have been accustomed to lean with so much satisfaction and confidence^ we might almost have expected to hear in your next, that you had be- come " quite sick," as we find, indeed, that you have been. We are, however, pleased to find, that your humble and firm confidence in God your Saviour, your everliving, almighty, all-sufficient, and unchanging friend, had been so happily maintained, under all your trials ; and that you were so soon restored again, to a comfortable measure of health. The affecting solem- nities of the scene which immediately followed, when the funeral sermon was preached, must have proved a severe trial to your faith ; which, we doubt not, was found unto praise and glory. The honor done to the memory of your late worthy husband, connected with the respect shewn to yourself, in all the circumstances attending that solemn and tender occasion, while they could not fail, in some respects, to open afresh, the bleeding sorrows of your heart, must, at the same time, have served to minister also the balm of consolation, adapted to sooth the wound, until it shall be more ef- fectually healed, by the hand of that heavenly physi- cian, whose ofl5ce it is, and in whose power alone it is, " to bind up the broken-hearted, and to comfort those who mourn." As soon as the sermon is printed, I hope you will remember to send us a copy of it by post, that we may, by the perusal of it, share in some degree, in the satisfaction and the improvement, with which it was 332 LETTERS. generally beard, bj the very numerous and respectable assembly to which it was preached. The attendance of more than thirty ministers, on the occasion alluded to, was a most pleasing circumstance ; and it shews, in a striking and impressive light, not only how highly the memory, of an able, faithful, and useful minister of Christ is honored, by those who were best acquainted with his worth, and the importance of his services ; but how greatly your country is favoured, in having so many men of God, employed in the work of the gospel ministry, and so generally dispersed among the people, as the salt of the earth ; while the spheres of their be- nevolent and useful labours, are so near together, that like a constellation, they shed a lustre upon each other, and contribute to make the whole number, and every individual composing it, shine more brightly, as the lights of the world. " Oh ! how good and how pleas- ant it is, for brethren, whether few or many, to dwell together in unity, ^^ And oh ! that the gloomy regions along the seaboard of our Southern States, might be speedily gladdened with such a sight, as your State often exhibits, in those numerous and harmonious asso- ciations, of the ministers of Christ. It would be a cir- cumstance, adapted to give greater joy, than the joy of harvest, than all the worldly riches and luxuries of the south, can afford. From your account of Mr. P's talents and qualifica- tions for the work of the ministry, I cannot but wish to hear of his being, in due time, settled in the pastoral charge of so respectable, and important a branch of the church, as that at Farmington. But the great Head of the church alone knows what is best for him, and for that part of his church : and He, it may be hoped, will LETTERS. 233 give (hat result to present plans, wishes, and expecta- tions, in which they will respectively have the greatest reason to rejoice, as being ordered in the best manner for all concerned. Very pleasing indeed, is the account which you give of the lively and active piety, and benevolence, of your venerable friend, the Rev. Mr. P. at his advanc- ed period of life. If I should ever have the pleasure of becoming acquainted with him on earth ; his conver- sation and example, would, 1 hope, have some desira- ble influence and effect, in quickening and animating me, in ray present work, and in waiting for the coming of our Lord. Should he not permit us to meet on earth ; may he prepare us to meet, to dwell, and to rejoice to- gether for ever, in his presence in heaven. Did I omit mentioning this gentleman, in my former letter? If so, I am ashamed of the omission, after all, that you had told us of him, while you were with us. But you know something of the infirmities of my memory, as well as of my head and my heart. Do now, endeavour, with your accustomed ingenuity, simplicity, and godly sin- cerity, to make up for me, to this worthy old disciple and servant of our common Lord, my former deficiency of friendly remembrance, &c. From the hon. Mr. T. and Capt. R. I would most gladly receive letters, if they would take the trouble of writing to me ; and I am sure that I would highly value their communications. But I am ashamed to think how, or when they would be repaid, by any re- turn, which I could make for their favours done me, in this way. In this case, however, as well as in many others, they may be referred for satisfaction and com- 334 LETTERS. pensation, to (hat divine maxim, " It is more blessed to give, than to receive." You have not said a word too much about your chil- dren. Loving the mother as we do, we cannot feel in- different towards her children, Avho, we know, must be very neap and dear to her heart. You have reason to be thankful that jou could saj so much in their fa\our. All their other pVomising qualities, and improvements, it is hoped, will in due time, be crowned by the grace of God. This, you know, is not yours to give. With a view to this, however, you may, and surely you will, continue to teach them, to pray for them, and to set be- fore them, an instructive, engaging example. And while thus studying to bring up for the Lord, those dear children which he has given you, and which you have in baptism, already in the most solemn manner de- voted to him; you may, according to his word, with Jiumble confidence hope, that he will establish his covenant with them, as the seed of his people, and be their God, as he has been the God of their parents, and in like manner bless them, make them a blessing in this world, and prepare them for being for ever blessed with all the redeemed and the sanctified, in his presence, in the world of glory. The last interview, for a few short days, of our friend, the Rev. Mr. J, with his family and friends, must have afforded a kind of melancholy satisfaction, to him and to them. With the event, it is hoped, he is perfectly satisfied ; and his afflicted widow, I trust, will find, to her unspeakable consolation, that the Lord, is the God and husband of the widow, and the Father of the fatherless. You, no doubt, must well know how to feel for her, and to pray for her. LETTERS, 335 If you know what pleasure you would feel in seeing 113 at Farmington, you may judge how highly we would be gratified in seeing you there ; for on that occasion, your feelings would, I am sure, be fully reciprocated by ours ; excepting so far as your heart may be larger and more benevolent than ours. The prospect of see- ing you in the course of next summer, our hearts would most fondly cherish : but whether we shall in this case realize our rvlshes, I am afraid to say, our ex}) eclat ions, depends entirely on His will, in whose hands are all our times ; and his will be done ! " Invited," as I know we are " by sincerity and love," could you real- ly believe, that we would find it " hard work," for us to put up with your " plain way of life," as you call it ! As / am a Northern man, by birth and education ; and as my wife is in like manner an old English woman, we are of course both familiarized to manners, and modes of living generally, similar to those which preTail in New England. And after all that I have seen and experienced, during a residence of nearly eighteen years in Charleston, I ara still inclined to think, that the best servants we can ever have, are our ** right hands, and onr left ;" at least where health, habit, and climate, will allow us to employ these to the best advan- tage. From what you must have observed of the ad- vantages and disadvantages connected with the num- bers of that sort of servants, usually belonging to fami- lies in this country, you could, I suppose, inform your good brother, from whose letter to you, you have fa- voured us with a valuable extract, that if he were living in Carolina, he would find more Canaanitesin the landy Hthan he has hitherto been aware of, in Connecticut, or Vermont. But so it is generally ordered, in the wise 336 LETTERS. providence of God, that conveniencies and inconvenien- cies are blended often in remarkable proportion to each other, in most situations in this world. A large pro- portion of the class of people alluded to, seem to be in very close alliance and correspondence, with the ene- my in our hearts, and often excite very troublesome commotions there, not easily controlled, or quelled. Yet many of them are certainly very comfortable and useful helps ; at least in this climate ; and many of them, I trust, are now worthy fellow-citizens with the saints, and will be happy inhabitants, with all who are redeemed out of every nation, of the heavenly Canaan. Yet, I begin to suspect, that if we should be permitted to make you a visit, we would feel ourselves rather in an awkward situation at Farmington ; not from the cir- cumstance which you allege ; but from a cause entirely of a different nature. The truth is, your partiality seems to have prompted you to say, so much about our little kindnesses shewn to you, and your own manner of ex- pressing your grateful, and friendly sentiments and feelings, seems to have gone so far, in conciliating for u» the favourable opinion, and good will, of your friends around you, that we can now scarcely calculate on any other result, from a personal acquaintance with them, than a mortifying disappointment on their part, as they must soon perceive, that, after all they have heard of us, we are indeed very poor creatures, rather standing in need of their compassion and prayers, than having a claim to any high degree of their regards and atten- tions. Still, however, it might be good for us, to be thus humbled among you ; although the circumstance might not be pleasing to our self-love, of which we have more than enough, in whatever else we may be deficient. LETTERS. SSr How highly would this self-love of ours, and I would hope, some better principles in our hearts, be gratified, if, instead of visiting you at Farmington, we could have you added, permanently, to the circle of our friends in Charleston ! But it seems to be otherwise ordered, and I doubt not for your advantage. If infinite wisdom and love, have chosen and appointed our lot, it must be not only right in itself, but, in all respects, best for us. My dear Jane will, I expect, write to you again ere long ; and to her pen I leave the historical details, which you might wish to receive, respecting friends, and affairs here. She has lately suffered a good deal from a pain in her ear, but is now, through mercy, better. This, I be- lieve, she felt some times while you were with us, and you may perhaps recollect, that it used to make her feel and look very grave ; and thus, to one of her nat- urally lively disposition, it seemed to have a good tendency, and desirable effect. After all, and with all her infirmities, she possesses, as you know, many valu- able qualities, and is to me a dear girl, as she is a most affectionate wife, and friend ; and next to her husband, I doubt whether there is any person in the world, whom she loves better than yourself. Let us be remembered, to friends, as before. Write soon again, and as often as you can ; and assure yourself of the most cordial es- teem, and love, of your sincere friend, ISAAC S. KEITH* 43 338 LETTERS. TO HON. JOHN TREADWELL, ] DEAC. NOAH PORTER, j Committee of tliG MARTIN BULL, Schurch in the first Soci- -^ THOMAS SMITH, and [ ^^^ ^^ Farmington. SAMUEL RieHARDS, ES(^. J CHARLESTON, NOVEMBER 18, 180G. RESPECTED GENTLEMEN, AND ESTEEMED FRIENDS, 1 HAVE been honored with your very kind and highly valued letter, under date the 22d Sep- tember, inclosing a vote of jour church, in F. which thej had been pleased to adopt and to commit to your care, for the purpose of conveying to me, " their grateful sense and acknowledgment of my friendly attentions to Mrs. W. a sister of said church, in her afflicted and mourning state, during her residence in my family." This vote of the church, and the sentiments corres- ponding with the spirit of it, expressed in your letter which covered it, are truly gratifying to my feelings | while they are, at the same time, adapted deeply to humble me, under a consciousness that I am by no means entitled to such a very respectful and honorable notice of those little services, which I had attempted to ren- der to one of the dear family of our blessed Lord, and a very worthy sister, indeed, of your church, which his wise and good providence had placed for a short time in my family. To receive a stranger, of her amiable character, and in her very affiicting circumstances, mourning under the recent and heavy loss of her best mortal friend, and earthly support, to such accommoda- LETTERS. 839 tions as our habitation could afford, and to assure her of the most cordial welcome, by such expressions of chris- tian sympathy and love, as v>^ere within our power, was so plainly our duly, according to the principles and rules of the gospel, as well as the sentiments and dic- tates of humanity, that there was no room left for us, in this case, to hesitate for a moment, as to the part which we were called to act ; and while endeavouring to fulfil the obligations of so obvious a duty, we soon found, and from day to day, more and more experienced, in Mrs, W's very agreeable and improving society, some of the most pleasing gratifications, of which an heart of genuine sensibility is capable. I trust, my worthy friends, that I am not altogether a stranger to the influence of that most excellent, that divine sentiment or maxim, worthy of its adorable au- thor, that "/; is better to give than to receive ;^^ and that I am not entirely regardless of His most conde- scending and munificent grace, " who has promised a rich and everlasting reward to those that shall give to drink to one of his little ones, even a cup of cold water, in the name of a disciple. But how often have I been led to reflect, and to say, "can / pretend to this hlesS' edness, and claim this reward^ when I know that a spi- rit of selfishness so greatly debases all the little that I do, which, in the eye of a partial friend, may look like christian benevolence ? In the case now in view, whether the principles of my conduct were such as the spirit of Christ inspires, and his gospel enjoins and sanctions, and therefore such as will authorize the be- lief and hope, that according to the constitution and the provisions of the covenant of grace, I may safely look within for an approving conscience, and look up ^40 LETTERS. to an approving God, is a question which I feel injself not competent to decide. I know, however, that in what I did, which was, I doubt not, far less than what I ought to have done, I felt a satisfaction and pleasure, which were more than an abundant equivalent, for the little which was done; and in these sentiments and feel- ings, those of Mrs. K. have, as I believe, fully co-incid- ed with my own. On this subject, indeed, one of ray most intimate and highly esteemed christian friends, not very long ago, af- ter reading one of Mrs. W's letters, observed, that if we had been permitted to form a plan for obtaining the most desirable addition to our social and domestic com- forts, we could not possibly have chosen better for our- selves, than the wisdom of our gracious Lord had al- ready chosen for us, in bringing Mrs. W. into our fami- ly, and detaining her there during the short season which she spent wilh us. When she left us, we felt that we were separated from a friend, who was among those most near and dear to our hearts, and wilh whom we might probably never meet again in this world ; yet consoled with the hope, if that hope we might venture to cherish, of meeting, never to part, in a better world ; where christian love and friendship are perfected, and where the joy and pleasure, resulting from this source, and that infinitely higher source, the love and favour of our God and Saviour, shall never be interrupted, but shall be ever full, and ever growing, through all the ages of a blessed and glorious immortality ! But I must check a roving pen, which never knows where to stop, when employed on a pleasing, interest- ing subject. Allow me only to add, on this subject, that the well meant, but too flattering expressions of LETTERS. 341 the sense, entertained by the churcb and their commit- tee, of aiy poor and very defective labour of love, in the iilstance alluded to, though very grateful to my feelings, on my own account, have been still far more pleasing to me, as they have exhibited the satisfactory evidence, of the mutual esteem and regard, cherished by the church, and by Mrs, W. for each other; and particularly as they have manifested the disposition of the church, thus to honor one of their members, who was doubly related to them, in sacred and peculiarly in- teresting ties ; and who, from the dissolution of one of those ties, which was in its nature, particularly endear- ing, now shares much more deeply than any other mem- ber, in the heavy affliction with which the church has been visited, by the removal of their late worthy pas- tor, her dear husband, and the excellent father of her now fatherless children. The Husband of the widorv, and the Father of the fatherless, will, 1 trust, be found a most kind and faithful friend, whowill never leave or forsake her, or her dear babes ; so that in Him they may still have an all-sufficient portion, that will never fail them. With respect to your bereaved church, I am much gratified in hearing, that you have the pleasing prospect of soon again enjoying the stated ministrations of the gospel, and administration of its ordinances, under the pastoral care of the Rev. Mr. P. whose talents and pie- ty, and respectable character, under the influence of his providence and grace, in ?i7i05e hands are the hearts and the times of all men, have concurred to produce that cordial unanimity, with which he has been invited to take upon him the arduous, and awfully responsible, cliarge of the Immortal souls, belonging to your church 342 LETTERS. and congregafion. If it shall please the great Head of the church, to favour his ultimate settlement with you, in the pastoral relation, may the important connexion be crowned by His blessing, to the luufiial, everlasting comfort, of pastor and people, in the day of his final, glorious appearing, to judge the world in righteousness, to punish with an everlasting destruction from his pres- ence, those who have not known God, nor obeyed the gospel of Christ ; but to be glorified in his saints, and admired in all, who have believed ; and who, under the influence of their faith, and in the course of a sincere, cheerful, and persevering obedience to the gospel, have looked for the mercy of their Lord Jesus Christ, unto eternal life. I have taken the liberty of sending to Mrs. W. un- der cover to Mr. R. a copy of my sermon, which was lately preached here, and which was, in a manner, ex- torted from me, in order to its being more extensively communicated to tlie public, through the press. To any friend, who may wish to have the perusal of this plain discourse, Mrs. W. will, no doubt, readily allow the use of it, for that purpose. You see, my worthy friends, that instead of undertak- ing to make a respectful, formal acknowledgment of, and reply to, the very flattering vote of your church, with which they have been pleased to honor me ; I have used those freedoms, in writing to their respectable committee, which I am accustomed to take in my epis» tolary communications to my familiar friends. This lib- erty will, I hope, be candidly excused ; and I doubt Dot that you will kindly communicate, to the church, so much of the contents of this long letter, as in your judg- ment, you may think proper to be imparted 5 and that LETTERS. 343 you will do this, in the mode that may be most eligible, and acceptable. This has been delayed, much beyond my wishes ; partly on account of a more than ordinary pressure of business, especially of writing, and partly with a view to ascertain, that I might inform you, of the amount of subscriptions for Mr. Ws sermons, which you are to expect from this quarter. The names of the numerous patrons of this worthy undertaking, which appear on the paper in my hands, I will endeavour to transcribe and send forward, within the course of two or three weeks. Be assured, my christian brethren, and be so good as to assure the church, which you represent, that I am with great esteem, and as I hope, in the sa- cred ties of the gospel of Christ, our Lord and Saviour, your and their sincere and affectionate friend, and fel- low servant, ISAAC S. KEITHi t^4 TO MRS. Wi CHARLESTON, JANUARY 20, 180f. The last letter received from you, our very dear friend, is under the dates November 2oth, and December 5th, 1806 ; and like all the others, with which you have favoured us, it has been read by us^ and also by some other friends, with a very lively in- terest, and cordial pleasure, and as I would hope, not without some spiritual improvement. We have only to regret, that we are so seldom indulged, with the pecu- liar satisfaction, which the perusal of your letters never 344 LETTERS* falls to afford. But considering the distance of our sltu- alions, and the variety and multiplicity of our respec- tive engagements, &c. &c. these communications cannot reasonably be expected, to be as fuequcnt, as friendship and affection would wish. We are, I am confident, respectively, sincerely disposed to do much more, and better, in this case, as well as in many other instances, than we find ourselves able actually to per-^ form. May it not then su65ce, as a kind of general, standing apology, for those delays which occur betweea the receipt and the answer of a letter; that these we would not allow, if they could be well avoided ? Three weeks have now passed, since your favour, above noticed, came to hand. It had been long expect- ed ; and though not in itself short, yet it seemed to be much too soon read through, and through again. Not- withstanding, what I have hinted on the subject of apol- ogizing, I feel as if I could not help telling you, that I have been prevented, from attempting an earlier ac- knowledgment of it, partly by a pressure of business, •which is generally the case, in a more than usual de- gree, about the commencement of the year ; and partly by indisposition ; but for these circumstances, I should, long ere this, have undertaken to thank you, for your long and excellent letter ; and to reproach you for your unkindness, in withholding it so long from us ; though, I am sure, that you do not deserve a word of rebuke on this account. Friendship, however, usually expecting too much, provides for itself many disappointments ; and then feels a curious kind of sweet revenge, in blam- ing those whom it most tenderly loves, for inflicting the 'pains which it suffers, from its own faults and follieg. LETTERS. 345 During the long intervals, which take place between (he periods of writing and receiving letters, our spirits are often with yours, participating in the remembrance of seasons past, in the feeling of present circumstances, and in realizing the prospect which the light of heaven presents to christian faith, not only through the check- ered, contracted landscape of this mortal life, but into the boundless scenes of eternity, of a blessed and glo- rious immortality. What a privilege and salisfaction, that, though far absent in body, we may yet be present in spirit, beholding and sharing each other's state and interests, temporal, spiritual, and eternal ! and that, es- pecially, we may in the name, and through the media- tion of our common Lord and Saviour, ineet at the throne of grace, and there seek and obtain mercy and grace for each other, as well as for ourselves, accord- ing to our several circu .istances of want, of dutj', and of trial, in the course of our pilgrimage towards that rest, which remaineth for the people of God ; into ■which no sin, or sorrow shall follow them ; and in the enjoyment of which, all their capacities and desires, shall be filled with all the fulness of God ! That we may meet you and others, who have been and are most dear to you, in that blessed world, to review, in the light of glory, the scenes of earth and time, of provi- dence and grace, and to rejoice and triumph together, in the perfections, the works, and the praises, of God our Saviour for ever. Pray for us, wilh the peculiar tenderness and fervor of christian love ; and pray for us, without ceasing. Your description of the solemn and interesting scene of Mr, P's ordination to the gospel ministry, in order to liis becoming connected, in the pastoral relation, with 44 546 LETTERS. the church, in which your late worthy and dear hus- band, for a number of years, exercised his ministry so faithfully and zealously, so honorably to himself, and so usefully to his people, and from the labours of which he has been removed to the joy of his Lord, is worthy of your heart, and of your pen ; and has excited in the hearts of your friends here, emotions of sympathy, seri- ous and tender in their nature, somewhat correspond- ent, though, in their degree, they may be much inferior, to your own. It is not at all surprising, that such a so- lemnity should have been, at once, " pleasant and mournful to your soul.'* By a spirit of piety and sen- sibility like your=5, and circumstanced as you were, both the pleasant and the mournful impressions natural- ly produced by the occasion, must have been deeply felt indeed; while conlemplating, on the one hand, the desirable privileges and hopes, to which the bereaved church was thus restored ; and while, on the other hand, dwelling on ibe affecting recollection of past events, which had called them and you to mourn together. May the same blessed Lord and Saviour, who, when he calls home one and another of his faithful servants, that they may enter into his joy, still provide for his church a succession of pastors and teachers, be still found by you, the husband of the widow, and the father of your fatherless children, and by his gracious pres- ence and abundant consolations, fill the great void, which his holy bereaving hand, with the wisest de- signs and for the most salutary purposes, has made in your affectionate heart, and in your dearest social com- forts ! Vain wish ! yet I cannot help wishing, that I had been present, to see what you saw, and to hear what LETTERS. 347 you heard, on that solemn and tender occasion. Such an assemblage of the worthy and pious ministers of Christ, and of devout worshippers, and engaged specta- tors and hearers ; such serious and interesting transac- tions, such instructive, impressive discourses, and such excellent, arTecting, elevating psahnody, as you de- scribe, would I am sure, have afforded a very peculiar gratification to my feelings, and might, I hope, have con- tributed something to my spiritual improvement. So many people, thronging the courts of the Lord's house, and engaging in the exercises of his worship, with atten- tive minds, and so many of the cordial friends of Zion, and especially of the faithful brethren in the gospel ministry, uniting with christian love and zeal, and har- mony in their efforts to promote each other's edification, and to build up the church of Christ, and advance its peace and prosperity ; how pleasing, how animating the scene, to every heart which loves the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity, and which prefers the success of his cause, the triumphs of his cross, to its chiefest earthly joy ! There are, 1 trust, many hearts here, which would rejoice in witnessing such a scene, in all its solemn delightful circumstc;nces, if Providence should furnish the peculiar occasion ; and, in beholding, on more ordinary occasions, the like evidences and fruits of brotherly love, and of the communion of churches, as well as of individual christians. But for such affec- tionate, profitable and sweet fellowship in the gospel, even in proportion to the smaller number of ministers and christians here, we seera, at presenf, rather left to sigh and pray, than to hope with any high degree of cheering anticipation. Oh, happy families, societies, and churches, and associations of ministers, with whom the God of love and peace, condescends to dwell ! And 348 LETTERS. since he appears so evidently io have honored jour branch of his chuixh with the distinguishing tokens of his favour, and manifestations of his presence, especial- ly while engaged in so eminently serious ar?d interest- ing a transaction, as that of forming a connexion with a pastor, whose ministrations, may most deeply and extensively affect their spiritual and eternal concerns; with what consoling reflections, and animating hope, should you all now adopt, and sing to his praise, the words which his own spirit has indited for you I " For a small moment, have 1 forsaken thee, but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a lit- tle wrath I hid my face from thee, for a moment ; but w^ith everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy Redeemer."*' May the endearing union that has now taken place between the worthy pas- tor and the worthy people of his charge, be long contin- ued, with mutual affection and satisfaction, and be still, and more and more, crowned with the smiles and the blessings of the adorable and gracious Hfad of the- chnrch, to the glory of his own name, and to the present great benefit and comfort, and the future, everlasting joy, of all concerned ! It is truly pleasing to hear of the appearances of "a solemnity on the minds of some of the dear youth among you, and of some of them hav- ing recently embraced religion.'* Such appearances, are, alas ! rarely indeed seen among us, at present ; al- though we have reason still to be thankful for some consoling tokens, that our Lord has not yet forsaken this part of his Zion. A few, and but a few indeed, compared with some former seasons, have, during the summer and fall past, been added to our church. We * Isaiah, liv. 7, 8. I.ETTERS. 84§ have reason to be humbled and to lament, that instances of this nature occur so rarely. But if He, who heareth prayer, and euiinentlj' delights to glorify himself in ac- complishing his work of grace, while he honors his peo- ple, as the instruments by which he carries it on, if He gives us the heart to pray and labour for the revival of it, we may then encourage the hope, that our eyes may be permitted to see a more glorious display of his sal- vation ; when these few scattering drops shall be in- creased to a plentiful shower ; and when his spirit shall be poured down fjom on high in an abundant supply of his convincing, renewing, and saving influences. In the desirable effects of such an effusion of the spirit of grace, manifested in the re\ ival of christians, and the awakening and conversion of sinners, we have at once the most cheering assurance, and the most pleasing glimpse, of the glory of the approaching millenial day ; to which your deiii^hted imagination has been borne forward, on wings far more rapid, than those of time, and quickened, probably, by the impulse of sacred pleasure, which you have felt, from the solemn pleas- ing scenes, which you have lately witnessed in Far- mington. Blessed will be the eyes, which shall see, with holy delight, the long desired day, when the church shall be established, and be a praise in all the earth! But still more blessed will be the spirits of the redeemed, who shall then be in possession of the hea- venly kingdom, purchased and prepared for them, "where, in an unspeakably superior light, they shall be- hold the glory of their Lord, in all the triumphs of his cross below, and in all the fruits of the travail of his soul, on high ! Shall we meet there, and soon ? O trans- porting prospect ! But may my hope prove fallacious S50 LETTERS. and delush^e ! Lord, search me and fry rue, and lead me in (he way everlasling, and give me the hope which is in Christ, who is in every believer, the hope of glory ! The Lord bless you, and yours, ISAAC B. KEITH. TO MRS. B. OF B T. CHARLESTON, AUGUST, I80r. ^^iNCE I have heard of the renewed and great affliction, with which it has pleased the Lord to visit you, my worthy friend, together with your family, connexions and friends, by the death of your amiable and excellent daughter, Mrs. C. I have sincerely and tenderly felt for you, and for those who suffer with you, under this painfully bereaving stroke of your heavenly Father's hand. The feelings and the friendship which dispose me to weep with you, and with them, in your present sorrows, have induced me to attempt, in this way, at once to express my sympathy, and to shew my good will to contribute something, if it may be only as a mite, to your consolation. But what is to be expected from my poor instrumen- tality, in a case, in which the best of human friends, would in themselves prove miserable comforters ? All, indeed, that I could think of saying, and much more than I can now suggest, must, I am persuaded, have al- ready and frequently occurred to your own reflections, while meditating on the perfections, the works, the ways, and the word of God, with the aid of his good spirit, enabling you to understand in part, at least. LETTERS. 351 what he has done in this instance ; although jou will never fully know it, nor be able to comprehend all the wisdom and love included in this mystery of Provi- dence, till you are brought to see and contemplate it in the light of heaven and eternity. Nor can I now hope to be the minister of instruction, or of comfort to you, except by recalling to your renierabrance and attention, those things which you already know ; and by uniting my prayers with your own, and those of other friends, that you may be favoured wilh a still larger measure of the illuminaling, sanctifying, supporting grace of the Divine Comforter ; and that the same holy hand which " has taken away the desire of your eyes with a stroke,'* niay kindly bind up jhe heart that has been broken by it, and is in danger of bleeding long under it. I am well aware that a parent, a mother alone, can fully estimate the loss which you have sustained, by the removal of a daughter, such as yours was ; while yet in the bloom of youth, and just entered upon the mar- riage stare, and in circumstances, which, in every view, seemed to favour the fond hope, that this dear object of the tenderest affections, and source of so many satis- factions, might have been still enjoyed, through a se- ries of happy years, with a still growing attachment and delight. From my short acquaintance wilh her, however, and from what I have learned, in the house of mourning myself, I think I know how to enter, in some measure, into your sorrows. The last time of my being in company with your daughter, was, I believe, at my own house, where, a little before her return to Beaufort, she spent two or three hours of a forenoon. Mrs. K. and myself, were at that time also favoured with the company of Mrs. W. 352 LETTERS^ who spent the •winter with us, and of whose amiable character and exemplary piet v, and great afBiction from the death of her husband, a most worthy and useful minister of the gospel, you have no doubt heard, through my communications to Dr. F. To all of us, those short hours were truly pleasant, and I hope, in some degree, mutually improving. Mrs. W. who is herself an orna- ment of her sex, and of her christian profession, ex- pressed herself highly pleased indeed with your love- Jy daughter ; and we were all united in the sentiment, that there was rarely to be found, so pleasing an assem- blage of the chartns of youth and beauty, of a fine and well culti\ated understanding, of sweetness of temper, and friendly, social dispositions, and of easy, engaging manners, all crowned by the sanctifving grace of God, which gives the highest improvement to all that is val- uable in human nature, and the brightest lustre to (he brightest and most amiable character. Pardon me, the freedom of these observations. They flow from the sentiments of affection and truth, in my heart, while they may suggest ideas, or recollections, at once ** mournful and pleasant to your soul," How little was it then realized, perhaps, by any of us, that all that was immortal in all this excellence, was So soon to be transferred to that blessed world, where the spirits of the redeemed are made perfect, and the work of grace is finished in glory ! How affecting the thought, that this is now a solemn reality ! And when your memory and imagination, sometimes more officious than friendly, shall again and again present her lovely image to your view, shall place before you, the pleas- ing features of her animated and expressive counte- nance, and shall bring back those many interesting sea- LETTERS. 353 sons of conversation, when " she opened her mouth with witsdoa), and in her tongue was the law of kindness," and shall retrace that worthy course of conduct, in which every action was but a renewed expression of love and duty : the sweet illusion will for a moment be enjoyed, as if a real interview were again allowed. But ah ! that sweet illusion van-shes before the re- flections of the succeeding moment ! And then the thought, Oh ! the painful thought, that here you shall see her face no more, will again fill your heart with sorrow : with sorrow breaking in upon it like a flood, threatening to swallow up every rising pleasure of the memory or the fancy, and every comfort with which reason and grace had begun to supply the mighty void in " the heart, which has been made desolate within you." But when these waves and billows are thus go- ing over you ; if you would not allow yourself to sink under their overwhelming pressure, I need not tell you, for you well know, that your views must be directed, and your application be made, in faith and hope, and with prayer to your Lord and Saviour, who alone is able to relieve and help and deliver you ; and who will be found as ready, as he is able, to rebuke the threatening storm, to still the raging sea, and by his word of power and mercy, to speak the tempestuous scene, the tumultuous emotions of your soul cast down, and disfpiieted within you, into a great and desirable calm. At all times, indeed, but more especially in such sea- sons of distress, how great, how precious must you feel the privilege of being authorized and enabled, to call upon your soul io return to its rest in your Lord, your Redeemer, and your God, into whose hands you have 45 354 LETTERS. committed it, aiicf to whose di^sposal you have surren- dered jour all ; assured that in Ilim jou will find a safe refuge, and a satisfying portion in the land of the living ; that you will find his strength made perfect in your weakness, and his grace made sufficient for you, and that when, in the world you have tribulation or distress, he will give you peace in hinaself, a peace which no smiles of creatures, or comforts of a worldly nature can ever give ; and which, is often most fully enjoyed, when our comforts from creatures, and from the world, have sunk to the lowest ebb. And how consoling, how animating, must you feel the belief and the persuasion, that as he performelh and ordereth all things for you ; so, " he doth all things well," and well for you, and will make all things work together for your good ! Although then, you are called to lament the early death of a most pleasant child, of a most desirable daughter, qualified to be a most agreeable and useful friend, in the natural and in the spiritual life ; is it not enough, that the Lord your God and Saviour, still liveth and changeth not, and that in him you have an all sufficient friend; ever disposed to be touched with the feelings of all your infirmities and sorrows ; to pity, support, and help you under all your trials, and most true and faithful to his own sacred and inviolable word ef promise, by which he has engaged, that he will never leave you, nor forsake you ? And while reflecting upon your loss in the dear ob- ject, which he has removed, you think again and again, what she was in herself, as a creature, and as a subject of renewing grace, and what she was to you in the ten- derest ties of nature, and of christian friendship, you JLETTBRS. 36^ feel yourself led to weep again and again, and still lo bedew her endeared name, with fresh tears of a^ection- ate, fender, painful recollection ; must you not at the same time, find those tears mingled and sweetened with rich ai]d strong consolation, when you consider, that your Lord hath done it, who hath the most absolute right to do with and for his own, whatever seemeth good in his own sight, and wlio knew infinitely better than yourself, what was best for you and for her ; and hath given you in this instance, every reason for submission and satisfaction, for acknowledging and saying, with an humble, grateful, adoring heart, " It is welW It has, I trust, been indeed well for you, that your faith should be tried in this furnace of affliction, in or- der to its being found, to your own greater comfort, and for the proportionably greater benefit of those who look to you for an example, unto praise, and honor, and glory, in some desirable measure now, as well as more fully and conspicuously &: the appearing of Jesus Christ ; while under the influence of it, and in humble imitation of, and in conformity to the faith of Abraham, the father of the faithful, you have given up, have you not ? some of your favourite and dearest comforts to the Lord, without a murmuring word or thought, but saying from the heart, Father, not my will, but thine be done ! And again, " The Lord hath given, and the Lord hath taken away, and still blessed be the name of the Lord I" And while by this renewed and great trial, your love, your delight, your hope, have been disen- gaged more and more, (have they not ?) from all crea- tures, and more stedfastly fixed on the Creator, who is blessed for ever, and the overflowing, unfailing fountain 356 LETTERS. of blessedness, {o all those whose trust is placed in him, and whose expectations are formed from him. And lo your faith thus tried, and proved, and strength- ened, and increased, does it still more satisfactorily ap- pear, that as to the dear child, the beloved dang,hter, whom joii have resigned and given up, when your Lord and Master, came and called for her, iiis tndif TV ell with her. That fine, that elegant bodily form, in which so much divine skill and beneficence were displayed, has indeed by the sovereign and righteous mandate of her Lord, been consigned to the gloom of the grave, there to moulder and dissolve into the dust, out of which it was originally formed. But there it shall not remain forever under the dominion of death ; for at the last day, it shall, by his all powerful voice, be raised up again, a spiiitual, immortal, incorruptible body, fash- ioned in beauty'and vigor, like unto the glorious body of the ]3ivine Redeemer, And when you think of the rational, immortal spirit, by which that once lovely clay, which is again to be raised in glory, was lately animated, you must view her as highly favoured indeed, in being so early called to renounce the vanities of the world, and the pleasures of sin, even in the season when their attractions, are usually the most powerful and dangerous, for an inter- est in the Saviour, and the joys of Heaven, which the illuminated mind values infinitely more than all world- ly good, and which alone can satisfy a soul born of God ; and then, after having the honor of exhibiting:, for a few short years, the power of godliness, and the beauties of religion, which alone can form a character worthy of the love of God and man, and secure a genu- LETTERS. 357 hie, solid, unfailing peace and happiness, to the soul in life and in death ; must she not appear to have been still more highly privileged, in being so soon removed from a world of ifuperfection and sin, of templation and conflict, to that bright world on high, where those v^'ho have been redeemed from among men, are as the angels of God, in all holy perfection ; while they participale net only in their exalted happiness, but in the peculiar joy of their Lortl, who has redeemed them to God by his blood, and having sanctified them into a complete conformity to his own image, in righteousness, and holi- ness, advances them to sit wilh him for ever, on his throne of glory ! Did you, or could you ever form a better and higher wish for your daughter, in those moments when you felt most sensibly, the deep, the tender interest which she had in your affections ? And shall you now grieve ; should you not rather rejoice, that all the best and most affectionate wishes of your heart for her, are thus accomplished, thus realized by her ? If still nature must weep, because she is no more with you, surely grace must teach you to weep in this case, as thouirh you wept not, when you thus view her as numbered with the saints in glory, who are ever with the Lord. And if still your bereaved heart must go again and again, to the grave to weep there, where all that was mortal, of what was lately so lovely and pleasing, lies deeply buried out of your sight, while musing on the brink of that gloomy mansion, look around, and learn to be thankful, that all your other mortal comforts, are not also buried there : let it then look down, and anticipate the hastening period, for the time is short, when there all your sorrows shall be buried for ever, 358 LETTERS. while there your flesh released from all its toils and sufferings, shall, as in a bed of sweet repose, rest in hope of a joyful resurrection : and then, through the dark valley let it look, with a strong failh, and lively hope, and ardent desire, to that world of glory, where God shall wipe away all tears from the eyes of his be- loved people, and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither any more pain, for those former things are all passed away, and shall nevermore be known in that eternal life, which God has promised. And let the delightful prospect animate you to run, •with unyielding patience, and with redoubled diligence, in the remainder of the race set before you, until in your appointed time, you finish your course with joy, and ascend in triumph, to meet again your dear Eliza; and with her and all the saints and holy angels, who surround the throne of heaven, to join in noblest acts of worship there, in the most exalted exercises of love and praise, to the King of saints, the eternal King of glory ; and to feel every capacity and desire filled with that fulness of joy, which is in his presence, and with those pleasures, that are at his right hand for ever. " Oh glorious hour, Oh ! blest abode !" But having far exceeded my proposed limits, and nearly filled the paper before me, I must leave you to pursue your own reflections : only commending you to *' the God of all grace, and our blessed Lord and Sa- viour, Jesus Christ, in whom the Father that hath lov- ed, hath given you everlasting consolation, and good hope, through grace, with my earnest prayers, and in the pleasing persuasion, that He will, as he alone can, effectually " comfort your heart !" LETTERS. 359 Altbough I have written in a direct way only to your- self, yet it has not been without a view to those who mourn with you ; in the hope that those whose hearts have been prepared by grace, may find that the conso- lations of God are not small with them ; and with the solicitous desire, that the hearts of all may be thus prepared for partaking, according to their respective measure of suffering under this great aflSiction, of those divine consolations, which to believers are made to abound through Jesus Christ, as their sorrows have abounded. " Now the Lord of peace himself, give you peace al- ways, by all means ! The Lord be with you all !" With great esteem, and affectionate sympathy, I am sincerely your friend, ISAAC S. KEITH. TO DR. F. CHARLESTON, AUGUST I2th, tO 14th, 1807. MY DEAR FRIEND, X OUR favour, under dates, the 7 th and 8th inst. I received yesterday by B. and as usual, I write in return, with haste, as well as a mind occupied with various objects of attention. But as B. sails again for Beaufort, this afternoon, I am unwilling to let slip the opport unity, without dropping a few lines ; they may turn out to he pages, to a friend whose cor- respondence I highly value, and with whose sentiments and feelings, my own seem to harmonize, on the most important and interesting subjects, and in all the vicis- 860 LETTERS. sitiides of joy and sorrow, to which this mortal life is subjected. Your letter is chiefly filled, with a truly affecting ac- count of an event, at once aflSicting and consolatory, in an uncommon degree ! For the early death of such a lovely woman, and excellent christian ; who that knew any thing of her worlhy and amiable char- acter, and especially that had the opportunity of en- joj'tng much of her pleasing, impro\ing society and conversation, can forbear to mourn, deeply and tender- ly to mourn, that she no longer lives, to adorn the pro- fession of the gospel, to gladden the respectable social circles in which she moved, and to be the joy and so- lace of her family, connexions, and friends I Yet who that raises the strong and stedfast eye of faith, to the bright and heavenly prospect, and beholds her happy spirit, now united to the innumerable and glo- rious throng of the redeemed, of the spirits of the just made perfect, in holiness and bliss, can refuse to be consoled with the consideration, that their painful loss is her great gain ; that for her, it is unspeakably better to be with hei Lord her Sa\ iour and her God, than it would have been to continue in the body, in a world of imperfection, sin, temptation, and trial I Blessed be God, through Jesus Christ our Lord, that christians on earth are not left to sorrow, for the dearest and the most beloved christian friends departed to hea\en, as those who have no hope ! How little do friends generally, when they meet, realize the solemn idea, that this may be the last time of seeing each other's faces in the land of the li\in8j I The last time, I think, of our seeing the desirable friend, now no more with us, was at our house, where LETTERS. 381 she spent about two hours of a forenoon ; and seldom indeed, if ever, have I enjoyed a more pleasant season, of that duration, with any person with whom I had not previously had the pleasure of a long and intimate ac- quaintance. Mrs. W. was with us at the same time: and as she was herself, an ornament of her sex, and of her christian profession, and a very good judge of the qualities, natural, acquired, and inspired, which consti- tute a character, most worthy of esteem and affectionj she expressed herself very much pleased indeed, with Miss B. and we all united in the sentiment, that such an assemblage of youth, beauty, intelligence, sweetness of disposition, easy and engaging manners, and genu- ine, lively piety, is rarely to be found. Her lovely image must long live in the recollection, and her mem- ory must be long endeared, to the hearts of her friends ; and especially of those who best knew her worth, and loved her most. May the little company of the Re- deemer's disciples and friends, who are travelling in th© narrow way to life, and who no longer enjoy the pleasina;, animating company of this desirable fellow traveller on the road, be excited to shake oflf sloth, and with redoubled diligence follow her, as she followed Christ, and press forward to that immortal crown, and everlasting rest, to which she has gone before them ; having been peculiarly and eminently favoured, in be- ing so early called to realize the promises, and the work of grace, fulfilled and completed in glory. And may the bereaved parent, husband, sisters, connexions, and friends, whose hearts most deeply feel the dispen- sation of a wise and holy Providence, which has called her so soon to heaven, and left them to mourn her loss on earth, and turned their short lived satisfactions, and 46 362 LETTERS. vainly anticipated joys, in this dear object of their affec- tions, into lasting tears and sorrows, find, that the Sa- viour, in whom she trusted and triumphed, is better to them, than the dearest of creatures can possibly be ; is a friend indeed, who will never leave them nor forsake them ; and who is able effectually to comfort those who mourn, and ready to make his grace sufficient for them, and his strength perfect in their weakness; and so to bless them, even by this great affliction, that they shall know, that it is indeed good for them, that they Lave been thusafilicted. To his compassion, and sup- porting, and sanctifjing grace, I commend all who are sharers in this aOiiction; and they will allow me, I trust, to take at least an humble part with them in their sorrows, with the desire, and in the hope, that as is their day of trial, so will their strength from him be found ; that as their sorrows have abounded, their consolations also, shall by him be made to abound ; and that through the teaching of bis word and spirit, they may effectually learn the various lessons of heav- enly wisdom, which this providence is adapted to im- press most deeply upon their hearts ! On the deeply interesting subject of war, which at this period so seriously occupies the public mind, I can hardly say, whether my hopes or apprehensions, respecting it, preponderate. When I think how ob- viously it is the interest, in almost every point of view, of G. B. and the U. S. to maintain and cultivate peace, and harmony, and a fair and equitable commer- cial intercourse ; it would seem, that if the governments of the two nations, are influenced hy I he principles of an enlightened and honest policy, they may yet meet on friendly ground ; and such reparation may yet be made, for the insult lately offered to our national Inde- LETTERS. 363 pendence, sovereignly and honor, as may prevent the horrors and calamines of war. But when again I think of the nnworthy returns, which, as a people, we have made to the God of our mercies, for all his distinguish- ing favours to our country ; and particularly how un- gratefully and criminally we have abused the manifold and long continued blessings of peace ; I cannot but fear, that the time may be near at hand, when the Lord may proceed to visit for these things, and to a- venge himself of such a nation as this, by some heav- ier judgments, than those which have already been abroad in our land ! The scourge of war, we have certainly deserved to feel, if not by our conduct to« wards the government, with whom we are in danger of being involved in a quarrel, which I think we have not justly provoked ; yet, at least, by our offences against the great Governor of nations, who has a right to employ what sword, or rod, he may choose, for inflicting upon us the merited chastisement for our sins. Your sincere friends, JANE AND ISAAC S. KEITJf* i-5^« TO DR. F. CHARLESTON, SEPTEMBER 1, 180T. MY DEAR FRIEND, When I begin to write to you, I generally in- tend to write but a little. What becomes of my pur- poses, in this case, let the long scrawls which you of- ten receive frem me, testify. In one respect, indeed^ 364 LETTERS. J acf in tolerable conformity to my intention, as it is but little matter that I send you, though spread over several pages, and inveloped in a multitude of words* I have often and often wished that I had the pen, not only of a ready, but of a concise writer, so that 1 could save my time and paper, and the patience of my cor- respondents, by the happy art of saying rmdlutn in parvo. But such as I am you see me in ray Ietters| and such as I have to communicate in them, you re- ceive in my own manner. For your sake, as well as my own, I wish / was myselfy and that I could do, much better. As things are, well is it for me, at least, in point of enjoying your correspondence, that you are a partial friend, and seem willing to be pleased with trifles, offered by a well meaning heart, as tokens of af- fection. As with all ray consciousness of my many infirmities and deficiencies, I have some vanity, which you know always loves to be flattered ; I must acknowledge io yon, that I have felt some gratification in reading the expressions of your approbation of the printed dis- course which I sent you. I wish it had been more wor- thy of the cause, and of course, of your acceptance. I have long judged, that political interests and duties, as they undoubtedly come within the compass, the wide compass, of religion, which teaches us what we owe, not only to God and ourselves, but to our fellow- men, as individuals, and as members of sacred and civil society, may with propriety be introduced, as sub- jects worthy of attention, in our public discourses. But as they require to be managed with a peculiarly delicate hand, and should not, perhaps, be often brought forward, or very particularly discussed, excepting in LETTERS, g65 extraordinary seasons and circumstances, I tave rarely indeed, aliowed my unskilful hand to touch tbem. That what was attempted in this way, on a late occa- sion, which seemed naturally to lead to some observa- lions on the critical state of our country, should have been demanded for a more extensive publication through the press, than was given from the pulpit, was altogether beyond my expectation; and to this meas- ure of my friends, / rather submitted, than consented. And now I see, they are dragging a part of it again before the public, through the channel of the newspa- pers, the Courier. Now is not this on the whole, more humbling, than flattering ? For when do you ever see a really excellent, evangelical sermon, on any of the most important subjects, involving the great, the ever- lasting interests of the soul and its salvation, thought worthy of being communicated to the public, in a newspaper ? But enough of this sermon ! On your essay on Patriotism, I have not now time to comment. Let one remark suffice, that on this sub- ject, my sentiments fully coincide with those which you have communicated. And be assured, that your religious sentiments and experiences, as intimated, sometimes more briefly, and sometimes more largely, in your epistolary communications, as well as in con- versation, (when the opportunities for that have occur- red) meet my approbation, and, without meaning to express a compliment, have led me to esteem you, among many others, better than myself; as being more experimentally, and practically acquainted, with the truth and grace of the gospel, which 1 profess to have believed and embraced, and which, in Providence, and by office I have been called to preach to others. Ah ! S66 , LETTERS. to preach not ourselves, but Christ, and him crucified, requires a degree of divine illumination and grace, of which, when I seriously think, I see reason enough for the deepest humiliation of soul. Happy are they who properly feel their own insufficiency in this case, and who experimentally know that their sufficiency is of God their Saviotir 1 We have lately received a long, and as usual, an excellent letter, from Mrs. W. Among other mat- ters, she informs, that, since the edition of 2000 copies of the volume of her husband's sermons, there has been such a demand by non-subscribers, for the small balance of 200 or 300, which had not been subscribed for, that she expects the whole edition will soon go off: and with other friends regrets, that the edition had not been extended, to at least 2,500 copies. Of the numerous patrons of this publication, who sub- scribed, chiefly from love to Mrs. W, and with a view to the benefit of her family ; many of the best judges of evangelical preaching among us, have ex- pressed a cordial and warm approbation of the sermons generally : so that they seem to enjoy, in this case, a double reward, in the pleasure of doing good, and the benefit, that has been reflected back upon themselves from the good which they designed to do to another. Had those sermons passed under the deliberate review and polishing hand of the author who left them, I sup^ pose, in the state in which they were first prepared for his stated course of preaching, they might have, per- haps, appeared to greater advantage in the eye of the critical reader ; but I doubt whether they would have been at all more pleasing and acceptable to the pioua heart. LETTERS. 367 Mrs. W. mentions in her letter, the appearance of a remarkable, and most desirable revival of religion, in the church under the care of the Rev. Mr. H. whose excellent funeral sermon on Mr. VV^. is inserted in the volume of his sermons : and some drops of the heav- enly shower, she says, are beginning to fall upon the neighbouring churches. She observes, that Mr. H. seems to be wearing himself out by his fervent zeal and abundant labours ; and speaks of his preaching lately to great acceptance, in the church at Farmington, on these words: "When the Lord shall build up Zion, he shall appear in his glory. "^ Do our hearts indeed long to see such a day of our Lord's glory, in Charleston, and in Beaufort, and all around ? If so: let us pray and labour, in our respective spheres, with becoming importunity, and diligence: then may we hope to be thus favoured, as others are, and as we have been, in some measure heretofore. With this, I send under the same cover, a letter to Mrs. B. on the subject of her late distressing, yet con- solatory affliction. I have endeavoured to express my good will, to minister consolation, if it were in my power; but the Lord alone, I know, can, and he I trust fvill, effectually comfort her heart. This letter was written a few days ago, when in daily expectation of B's arrival. Be so good as to hand it to Mrs. B. and may a blessing attend, what may be proper and sea- sonable in it, to herself, and to those who mourn with her. I thought that surely, I must and would con- clude here : but I must yet take the other end of the page for finishing, when I have no room for another line inor«. You will easily perceive, that my brains * Psalm •ii. 1«. 26 LETTERS. have not been much on (he rack, in writing this ; ou- my fingers are tired with holding tlie pen ; as your pa- tience must now be in trying to read, or to spell out, this hasty, yes literally hasty scrawl. In love (o yourselves, and all friends around you, your little friend Jane, joins with your greater friend, ISAAC S. KEITH. »-?:«-4 TO MRS. W. CHARLESTON, AUGUST 27, tO SEPT. 10, 1807. Again we have been favoured with a long let- ter, from our very dear, dear friend, under date the 29th of July. It must have been more than three Weeks on the way, as it was not received here till the 24 Ih of August. It was, if not long looked for, at least for some time expected, not without some degree of anxiety and impatience, before it came at last. And ■when it came, as we knew that it came all warm from the heart of a friend, whom we highly esteem, and very affectionately love ; and whose reciprocal afTec- tion gratifies our self-love, more than our pens or words can express, you may be assured, that this re- newed evidence of your continued friendship, and kind remembrance, was most welcome to our hearts ; as is every letter indeed, that we receive from you. This, I believe, I have in substance told you more than once already. But to those whom we love, we are apt to say the same things over and over again. LETTERS. S69 It gave us much pleasure to hear, that both of the letters which you acknowledge, and to which you have made such ample returns, had got seasonably to hand. And could you not have told us so, sooner than you did ? But, all circumstances considered, we cannot think of blaming you ; for we know that it is in your heart to write when you can ; and we have only to wish, that in this case, and in many other instances, you and we, could better do what we would : alfhousrh, I suppose, that we all see abundant cause for complaining of ourselves, that we are often and often, far from be- ing willing and ready, in a proper degree, to do the good which may be within the power of our hand. What views must they have of themselves, who think that they can merit heaven itself by the goodness of their hearts, and by their good doings ? Happy they, who are so poor in spirit, as to see and feel, that to them Christ is all ! With what transporting pleasure will they hereafter cast their crowns of glory at his feet, and triumph in his praise, who has done all for them, who has bestowed all upon them, and whose joj will constitute their happiness for ever ! Ere this, it is hoped, that you have received pay- ment of the bill, which you mention as having been safely conveyed in my last letter. The remarkable success which has attended the undertaking, of pub- lishing a volume of your late dear husband's sermons, is highly gratifying to your numerous friends here, as well as to those nearer around you. It seems to be, in- deed, much to be regretted, that the edition had not been extended to 2,300, instead of being limited to 2,000 : as there is such good ground now for believing^, that, within a reasonable space of time; the whole of 47 su LBTTERS. the first mentioned number might have been disposed of. But is it not probable, that in due time there may- be a call for a second edition ? In the mean time, there is great reason for thankfulness, that so large an edition as that which has been actually printed, has been for the most part subscribed for, and that the remainder are likelj to be disposed of so soon. In this the be- nevolent and the pious must be disposed to rejoice, Bot only on account of the particular benefit resulting from this circumstance, to the widow and the fatherless ; but in the view of the still greater good, so extensively diffused through the community, by the publication of so large a number of these valuable discourses. With great truth I can assure you, that I think them really excellent sermons ; composed in a style of simplicity, congenial to that of the scriptures, and enriched with scripture truths, exhibited in a manner well adapted to enlighten the understanding, to impress the heart, and to promote theimprovement, the comfort, and the sal- vation of the soul. It will, no doubr, be peculiarly grateful to the feelings of your heart, which must long cherish the most affectionate remembrance of a most worthy husband ; as it has been very pleasing to me, to find, that among the very numerous subscribers to those sermons in Charleston, many persons, whom I reckon among the best judges of evangelical preaching, that are to be found here, have expressed a cordial, and warm approbation of them. Hence, although they at first subscribed, chiefly from love to you, now they feel a double gratification, as they meant to se^icve a friend, and in doing that, have secured a still greater betiefit to themselves. When I consider these sermona as prepared generally for a stated course of preaching, LETTHRS. 3ft without any view to the press, and as printed from the manuscript, as it was tjius left by the author, I cannot but view them, as reflecting great honor upon his mem- ory. Had they passed under the deliberate review, and polishing hand of the writer, before they were published, they might perhaps have appeared to greater advan- tage in the eye of the critical reader ; but I doubt whether they would have been at all more pleasing and acceptable to the pious heart. Although we have no business with wishing for any thing but what the Lord wills ; yet our natural affec- tions, which want a great deal of guiding, restraining, and sanctifying grace, to set, and to keep them right every day, have been daily prompting us to wish that we could see you where you are, and your worthy friends with whom you are surrounded ; and as we could not hope to stay long with you there, then, to wish that you were with us here ; and that here you would abide, and feel yourself at home : so far at least, as pilgrims may be allowed to feel themselves at home, on earth. With what painful pleasure are the inter- esting hours which we have spent together, now recol- lected, often and often, in the course of every day that passes ! With what heartfelt pleasure would they be renewed, if the wise and good providence of our God, would permit ! Now what is this but the very spirit of selfishness in us? For our judgement tells us, that it is much better, all circumstances considered, for you now, to be where you are. How strange, how inconsis- tent, (but what inconsistencies cannot the human heart reconcile?) that we should really wish you an evil, a?i acknowledged evil, while we persuade ourselves that we are cherishing for you, the tenderest affection, of S72 LETTERS. the purest friendship I Well is it for you, that your blessed Lord and Saviour loves you infinite- ly better than we dOy and orders, and does every Ihin^ concerning you, and for you, just as he does, be' cause he loves you ! Since then He sees it best, that we should not now enjoy the pleasure, and the improve- ment to be found in your society and conversation ; we desire to bow to his wise disposal, and to be thankful for the satisfaction, which he allows us, of still numbering you among the very dearest of our friends ; of maintain- ing a constant correspondence with you by letters; and of hearing so frequently, and so particularly, of the many, the new, and fresh evidences and fruits of the loving kindness, and tender mercy of the Lord, with which you are favoured, under all the trials, "which his wisdom has appointed to you. The Lord appears indeed, to be dealing with you, as he does with those whom he loves, with a peculiar affection. Having adopted you into his family, and given you an interest in all the high and distinguishing privileges of the children of God, he added to the rich blessings of Lis grace, one of the most precious and desirable fa- vours of his providence, when he gave you, for the friend of your bosom, the most intimate companion of your soul, one who was a fellow heir with you of the grace of life, and eminently qualified to be your coun- sellor and comforter, to share, and to relieve you of, at least half, ihe load of all your troubles, and to partici- pate and to double all your joys, on the journey to that everlasting rest, which remains for the people of God. You were highly pleased, and happy, very happy, with this gift of your Father's love : and unconscious qf your error, and even inattentive, perhaps, to th^ i^ETTEBS. 573 mde difference between gratitude and idolatry^ you. were gradually raising llie wortliy, the beloved partnei" of jour joys and tsorrows, too near the place in your heart, which you had consecrated to the Creator, and which he alone is enlilled and qualified to fill. The creaJure whom your erring affections were prone to idolize, your Father loved unspeakably belter than you could ; and having accomplished in him the work ofhifl grace, and enabled him to finish with acceptable fideli- ty, the work which was given him to do, he was in great mercy, received to glory. For you, it »va8 necessary that you should be further purified in the furnace of affliction; tjiat thus your affections might be refined, and prepared to be filled more eniirely with the ful- ness of God, and that thus you might be fitted to exhibit a brighter example of the christian temper and character, and to enjoy in an higher degree, the peace which the Saviour bestows ; but which the world, which creatures, cannot give. You weie therefore af' Jlicted, severely afflicted ; and your faith, much more precious than gold which perisheth, having been tried as by fire, has been found unto praise, has appeared to the praise of its Divine Author, to your own increased comfort, and to the proportionably greater benefit of others, who have looked to you for an example ; and your soul, deeply humbled, and submissively accepting correction, as justly and mercifully inflicted, for its idolatrous attachment to the creature, has felt itself compelled by an happy necessity, and constrained by a sweet influence of grace, to return to its rest in the Lord, and to trust and hope, and rejoice in a manner more worthy of your christian character, in Him, as your refuge and your portion in the land of the living. 274 LETTERS, And ever since lie has Ihus afSicted you for your good, he appears to have been renewing to you, in various ways, the tokens of his favour and love, and indeed, to have been continually rejoicing over you, in doing you good, by the kindest dispensations of his providence. Trials, indeed, and these neither few nor small, are necessarily connected with your present situation ; and (rials of one kind or other, christians must have in every condition on earth ; and these are in some respects, great- er mercies and blessings , than the dearest comforts of life. But your trials are sweetened with so many comforts, with so many pleasant fruits of your Fath- er's love and beneficence, whether coming more imme- diately from his own kind hand, or conveyed to you by the instrumentality of friends, whose hearts he has prepared and inclined to shew you kindness, that you must feel yourself laid under the most pleasing obliga- tions to acknowledge, " that he hath been daily put- ting a new song in your mouth, even praise to your God ;" and that when you would declare, and speak of the many wonderful works, which the Lord your God has done, and of his thoughts of mercy and peace to- wards you, you find that they cannot be reckoned up in order, that they are more than can be numbered.^ And what gives to all the benefits of his hand, with which he is daily loading you, their highest value and relish, is the persuasion, the assurance, inspired by his Spirit, and sanctioned by his word, that these are on- ly the provisions of his tender care and love, to sup- port and cheer you on the way to your Father's house, eternal in heaven, where your incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading inheritance of glory and joy, is reserveil * Psalm xL "LETTERS. 3T5 for you. How pleasing, (and might it not be equally iniproviiig ^) again to meet and talk over these things ; to repeat, once and again, many of the things which were said, during the months which you spent with us ; and to say much more of what might then have been said ; but for which there did not seem to be sufficient lime ; or for which the opportunity was lost, by negli- gence, or an excessive attention to a variety of matters of little comparative importance, and then reciprocate our observations and reflections, upon the interesting scenes and events, which have passed since the unwel- come hour of our separation occurred ! Whether such a meetings such a gratification of the heart, such a feast of the soul, will ever be permitted to us on earthy I'ests with Him, in whose hands are all our times. Shall we then, (to renew the question on which you say you so often mused, while with us,) shall we all meet in Heaven. <* There, I believe, you will in due time meet a beloved, lamented husband, and all the other redeemed, sanctified, and perfected spirits, who sur- round the throne of God and the Lamb, to spend a blessed immortality, in adoration and praise, love and joy* But shall /ever meet you, and the rest of that glorious and happy throng, in that bright world, that blessed abode, where No vain discourse shall fill our tongue. Nor trifles vex otir ear : Infinite grace shall be our song, And God rejoice to hear ! This is a question, which has ten thousand times, thrilled through and through my heart, and excited a conflict of hope and fear, of joy and pain, which no words can describe. I have thought, perhaps I have 3ir6 LETTERS. only presumed, that wherccis I was blind, I bave been divinely enlightened, to see, to love, to embrace, to trust, and to rejoice in God the Saviour, as all my desire, hope, salvation, and happiness ; and I often think, perhaps I only fancy, that my sonl would find the highest delight which it craves, and to which it as- pires, in glorifying and enjoying p-y God and Saviour, in the company, and in harmony with his saints, for ever. But, if / indeed love Him, and desire to be with him, why do I not better keep his commandments .^ Why do I not study more to glorify him, by bringing^ forth more of the fruits of the Spirit ? And why am I not more ready and resolved to deny myself, and take up the cross daily, and to follow my Lord fnlly, in the hope and prospect of the final accomplishment of his gracious promise, that where he is, there shall his ser- vants and friends be also, ever with the Lord ? 'Tis a point 1 lonc^ to know ; Oft it causes anxious thoughts. Do I love the Lord or no ; Am I his, or am 1 not ? Lord decide the doubtful case ! Thou who art thy people's sun, Shine upon thy work of grace, If indeed it be begun ! The account which you have communicated, of the remarkable and most desirable revival of religion, which has lately appeared in Mr. H*s congregation, es- pecially, is most pleasing and welcome. May that glorious work of the Lord, be greatly increased, long continued, and widely extended ! The zeal and activ- ity with which Mr. H. is engaged in this work, are such as might be expected by those, otherwise unacquainted with his character, who have read his excellent funeral LETTERS, 37f discourse, on the death of Mr. W. included in th© volume of Mr. W's sermons ; a discourse which has been very much approved and admired by many here. In a nobler and better cause, he could not spend and be spent ; but I hope that he may not too soon wear himself out, by the abundance of his labours. It is pleasing also to hear, that even a (ew drops of the plen- tiful, heavenly shower, are falling upon the church in Farmington, as well as others in the neighbourhood. I hope that the ministrations of your worthy young pastor, will be honored and encouraged, by an increas- ing blessing attending them, and crowning them with success, in promoting the salvation of sinners, and the edification of believers ; among whom, of this latter class, within the bounds of his pastoral charge, you must feel a peculiar satisfaction, in numbering many, as the seals of your late dear husband's faithful and la- borious ministry. Oh ! that here also, we might soon see the happy day, when " The Lord shall build up Zion, and appear in his glory among us !" He ap- pears, indeed, from time to time, to be adding one and another, some white, some black, to the church, among (hose who shall be saved. But while we bless his name for the day of small things, there are, I hope, a number of his friends here, who long to see his houses of worship among us, and the church which he has planted, and supported here, and for which, in various ways, he has done great things, filled more visibly with his glory, and with converts in numbers, in the beauties of holiness, and in sweetness and usefulness of influence, like the drops of morning dew ! What " sight upon earth is so fair" as that of numbers crowding the temple gates of the Lord, as humble, devout worshippers, and impor- SrS LETTERS. tiinate seekers of salvation ; and through the gates of iiie church on earth, pressing into the kingdom of heaven ? Greater, surelj, than the joy of harvest, must be the joy of the friends of Jesus, when they thus see the gathering of the people unto him ; in their measure, they will feel even the satisfaction which be enjoys, when he thus sees of the travail of his soul. May He multiply the people, thus made willing in the day of his power, to become the subjects of his grace, and the sup- porters of his cause, and increase this joy abundantly, through all the churches, and among all the nations ! But I must check my roving pen, which never knows where to stop, when moving towards a dear friend. Well, let it still go on pbut under the direc- tion of another hand, by which I hope, it will be em- ployed, to fill the remainder of this sheet, more agreea- bly than it would by my own. I am, very affectionately, yours, ISAAC S. KEITI?> f^^« TO MRS. W. CHARLESTON", APRIL 19, ISO?. It cannot be necessary to remind you, our dear friend, that in my little wife and myself, you have very dilatory correspondents, and indeed very poor crea- tures, as friends. If our friendship, indeed, were to be estimated by our affectionate esteem and remembrance of you, and by our benevolent wishes for your happi- ness, we might perhaps stand the test tolerably well : but if, like a christian profession, it is to be judged by its substantial fruits, it would, in this view, be found LETTERS. 379 greallj wanting. And when we measure the friend- ship which we profess to cherish for our blessed Lord and Saviour, to whom we are bound bj every obliga- tion, by the standard which he has fixed for the proof of it, where he says, " Ye are my friends, if ye do tvhatsoever I command you." What confidence or hope towards him could we have, if he were not indeed, the friend of sinners ? How high the satisfaction of say- ing, with truth, "Lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee !" And how great the consola- tion, resulting from the declarations of his own word, that if any who love him in sincerity, fail or offend, (and how many, alas ! are the failings and offences, with whichtheir consciences must charge them?) they haveiii him an High-Priest, v;ho is tenderly touched with the feeling of their infirmities, and whose blood cleanseth from all sin and unrighteousness, and an Advocate, whose intercession in their behalf, with the Father of mercies, shall prevail to obtain for them, pardoning mercy, and sanctifying, supporting, and coajforting grace, according to their necessities ! You, I believe, have long loved the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity ; and the longer you have known Hiin and yourself, the more, 1 doubt not, you have seen and felt, that He is just such a Saviour and friend as you absolutely need ; a Saviour and friend all-sufficient, and as condescending as he is glorious, as ready, merci- fully to forgive you, and graciously to receive you again, as you have been prone to err, and to abuse his goodness and indulgence. Such love and grace could be expected to be shewn only by him, rjho died for his enemies^ for his own creatures, when they were in the full career of their mad rebellion against him. And 380 tETTERS. surelj', eternity will be short enough (o utler all hh praise ! AVhat a pity that so little of it should be shewn forth now, by any who venture to hope that they are redeemed by him, to be a peculiar people to himself, zealous of good works ! As to myself, I feel, that with respect to Him, whom I call tiiy Lordj and who, I know, can alone be my Sa- viour, I am living " at a poor dying rate," indeed. Lord increase my faith, that faith which works by love^ overcomes the world, and brings forth abundantly of those fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God ! In respect to the natural life, and the circumstancei of my situation in the world, no material change has lately taken place, except what may be included in the silent flight of time, which has brought me, by the space of many months, nearer to an unwasting eternity, than I was when we were with you last summer, and favour- ed with the interview which had been so much desir- ed, which was so pleasing in the enjoyment, and yet but half enjoyed, on account of its being of so short continuance, and so soon past and gone, probably not to be renewed again on earth. May it be renewed in very different, in unspeakably better circumstances in Heaven ; there to be perpetuated, through all the peri,- ods of a blessed and glorious immortality, where the pain of separation, where the sigh which rises, and the tear which falls, at the thought of a departed, or an ab- sent friend, shall be known no more ; where love, and friendship, and society, shall be perfected ; where God shall be all in all, and joy in his presence, shall be full and still growing, and rising higher and higher, for ever ! Can such^ a felicity belong to me ? May my hopes as- LETTERS. 381 pire so high ? Is Jesus precious to me as he is to them who truly believe ? With every such soul, it is surely not presumptuous, but a duty, and a becoming expres- sion of gratitude, to hope to enter into his joy, and to behold and to partake of his glory ; for such is his willy and such the assurance of his faithful word. Lord, I would believe : help thou my unbelief! and enable me, to give all requisite diligence, in order to the attain- ment of a full assurance of hope ! The winter here, after a most delightful autumn, which was prolonged till near Christmas, was, for seve- ral weeks, rather vset and unpleasant, but not very cold. From the latter part of February to the present time, the weather has been as dry, as it was before rainy ; and excepting a few days, it has been cool for the season ; and lately we have had a smart frost ; which, in the up- per country, has been so severe as to kill a great deal of the wheat, which was, as I suppose, just beginning to shoot into (he ear. Long before this, f presume you Jiave been relieved from the pinching cold, and many inconveniencies attending it, of which you complained, when writing to us, in January and February, May the return of the spring and summer, so peculiarly de- sirable in your climate, be attended with the smiles of Heaven, on your temporal and spiritual concerns ! I have seen some alarming accounts of the fever, with which you were so extensively and deeply afl3icted in Farmington last year, having appeared and proved very fatal, in some families in Hartford. It must be an aw- ful scourge where it prevails. May the Lord in his mercy arrest its progress ; or sccompany it with his sanctifying blessing, to those who are called to suffer under it \ 382 LETTERS. Together with yourself, and near connexions, we have often and often recollected, with peculiar satisfaction, the many valuable and dear friends, with which you are surrounded, and with which we had the pleasure of be- coming a little acquainted, during our short visit. As- sure them, as you have opportunity, of our very grate- ful and affectionate remembrance. The names of indi- viduals I am afraid to begin to mention, as they are yo many: and some might be undesignedly omitted, I always think of them as forming, not merely a numer- ous, well instructed, orderly, respectable church and congregation; but as members of one family, who, ex- perimentally, know how good and pleasant it is, for brethren to dwell together in unity. As a society thev are, in my view, highly privileged in having among them so large a proportion of the truly honorable, and worthy, and 2:ood ; qualified, by their intelligence and their principles, to serve the cause and to recommend the religion of the gospel. And here, you may be sure, I do not forget, or leave out of view, those serious, pious, and excellent young ladies, whose cultivated minds, amiable dispositions, and pleasing manners, soon constrained us to esteem and love them, while by their very polite and friendly attentions to us, we felt ourselves peculiarly honored and gratified. May the Lord bless them, and make them blessings, indeed, fo their families and connexions, and to the church of Christ, as worthy and ornamental members of it ! The union between your worthy pastor and his dear H. is, we trust, by the blessing ^f heaven, made a source of rich and growing hapfUness to themselves ; and it is our prayer and hope, that he, in his special and highly important and interesting relation to the church ; and iiETTERS. 38g that she, in her sphere, as his nearest connexion and most endeared friend, and affectionate helper, in the spiritual as well as in the natural life, may be the honor- ed instruQients of diffusing much good and happiness, among their friends, and through the commnnitj, as far as their activity and influence can be extended ! It is very pleasing to us to hear, that our venerable, friend f Mr. P. continues, at his advanced age, to enjoy a comfortable state of health ; while with the decline of the outward man, his inward man seems to be renewed daj by day, and his heart to become more and more warm- ed with the love of God and man, and his soul thus ad- vancing in its preparation and meetness for the blessed society of the spirits of the just made perfect. His friendship for you has, no doubt, had its influence in leading him to think and speak more highly of us, than he ought to think or speak. I should, doubtless, be very much mortified^ if not humbled, at the thought, that nobody should tliink or speak favourably of me ; and yei I cannot help feeling ashamed of myself, when honored with any expressions or testimonies of the friendly regards of the wise, the worthy, and the good^ conscious how little 1 deserve their favour. Never was there a son of fallen Adam, who had more reason than I ha\e to say, continually, and with respect to every movement of my heart, and action of my life, " God be merciful to me a sinner !" We hope that the health of your excellent old friend, the honorable and the good Lieut. Governor T. is still continued, that together with his family, he finds all the Lord's dispensations, whether comfortable or afflicting, to be paths of mercy and truth ; and that he will yet be spared to do much good in church and state on earth, before he is called to en- 384 LETTERS. ter into his rest in heaven. But contrary to my plan, I am beginning to particularize, in speaking of friendi around you ; and am tempted now to name your good deacons, and the several families of C. M. R. C. &c. &c. &c. but I must stop here, with the request, that our united love and best wishes, may be presented to them all and every one, as if they were severally nam- ed, including especially your sisters and brothers, and their and your dear children. As to yourself y rest as- 9Bured, that we continue io love you as dearly and sin- cerely as ever ; and while we tenderly sympathize wilh you under the renewed deaths, sicknesses, and various afflictions, in which you are from time to time called to bear your part of sufferings, we are at the same time consoled with the persuasion, that all are appointed and ordered in love, and will be sanctified to the further- ance of your salvation, and the increase of your ever- lasting happiness. And surely you can have no cause to complain, if it pleases your wise and gracious Lord, in the furnace of affliction, to brighten your future crown of glory. SAAC S. EEITH. TO MBS. W, • N THE DEATH OF HER S0». MEW YORK, JULY 9, 180S. x OUR kind letter, our very dear friend, which you wrote at Middleton, under date of the 4th inst. we have just now received. How little did we apprehend, LETTERS. 385 after having received and read so many letters from jou, comnuinicating so aiuch pleasure and satisfaction, that your next wouhl be the raessenger of such sorrow- ful tidings, and penetrate our hearts with pain, instead of filling them with joy ! But alas ! what are the most flattering worldly prospects, and the most pleasing cal- culations founded upon them ! The storm of affliction had beaten heavily upon you, and laid your best earth- ly support, and dearest mortal comfort in the dust. Your sky, however, seemed to be clearing up, and the sun of prosperity had begun again to shine upon you. But the black cloud has again gathered around you, and drawn you again into the house of mourning ; and to the feelings of nature, and especially to the tender sensibilities of a widowed mother's heart : how gloomy now the scene, where you are watering, with unavailing tears, the lovely plant which you were cultivating with the most affectionate christian care, and which in the morning was flourishing and growing, as one of your favourite, rising hopes ; but which, before the evening, was cut down and withered, under the irresistible stroke of death ! How sudden the event, how affecting the change ! But the hand, Oh Lord, was thine ! A consideration sufficient to silence at once every mur- mur, and to bow the soul into adoring s!ibmission. For the Lord doth all things well, and all that he does, concerning you, will, I doubt not, work for your good. Only be now still, and know that he is God : and here- after, you shall know what he has done, and why he has done so, to your unspeakable consolation and joy, and to his everlasting praise ; when in the light of heav- en and eternity, all that is now obscure, in the dispen- sations of his providence, in this twilight scene shall 49 386 LETTERS. exhibif the strokes of his wisdom, and the benignity and munificence of hics love, in full meridian splendour. There and I hen jou will see and know, and feel, in a manner and degree far, far exceeding your present ca- pacity, thai God is Lo\e, and that this God, your Sa- viour, will be your God and portion, and your exceed- ing great reward for ever ! In these views, and in this persuasion, surely you will weep under this renewed sorrow, as though you wept not. Fain would I be the minister of comfort to you. But I feel my own insuffi- ciency, and therefore commend you to the God of all grace and comfort, our compassionate Lord and Saviour, who by his word and spirit comforts them that mourn, and binds up, cheers and heals, the hearts of bis dear people, which he hath wounded and broken, not for his pleasure, but for their profit, that they may become in a larger measure partakers of his holiness, and thus become qualified for an higher degree of the life and happiness which can be found only in his favour. AH that we can do for you, will, I trust, be done with some- thing of the spirit of human and christian friendship ; we will still give you the place of a favourite friend, in our afferfions, and in our sympathy ; and we will en- deavour to bear you on our hearts, particularly in our prayers. At Ihe same time, I cannot forbear to remind you of the satisfaction which we feel on your account, and of the ground of thankfulness to the God of your and our merries, which is afforded, by the grace and strength which he has manifestly given you, (in answer to the praver of faith) to prepare you for, and to sup- port you under, the renewed trial to which be has call- ed you. It would seem, indeed, as if we had reason, rather to congratulate you, than to condole with you ; LETTERS. 887 on account of (hose repeated, painful trials, with which you have been visited, as in these you have received the distinguishing tokens of your Heavenly Father's Jove, who chastens those whom he loves, and often scourges, most severely, those whom he receives with pecuh'ar regard and honor ; and as under these trials, he has so remarkably furnibhed you with strength ac- cording to your day, and with grace to enable you to glorify him in the day of visitation. In him may you still be enabled to hope, to trust, and to rejoice, as the God of your salvation, and the portion of your soul ; and may he still be with you, to keep you and to bless you, to bless you by all his dealings with you, and to conduct you in the right, the best way, to that everlasting rest which reraaineth for his people! How melancholy is the account which you give, of the prevalence and the ravages of that fatal epidemic, the spotted fever, in Farmington, and the towns adja- cent ; under which not only your dear Joseph Ebene' ser, ("in whom you have lost the name, and a very striking portrait of your late husband, deservedly most dear to you,") but many olher of your very near and dear friends, have fallen the lamented victims, " cut oflf in the midst of life and usefulness I*' May it please the Lord speedily to say, to this destructive scourge, *v. His days and his nights of distress ; You see him in nnguish no more. He's gained his happy release. No sickness, or sorrow, or paiiv Shall. ever disquiet him now ; For deatli to his spirit was gain, Since tJhrist was his life when below." And now when the earthen vessel, to which the rich treasure of the gospel was committed, and which con- tained so many of your sweetest and best mortal com- forts, is broken ; how great also is the consolation, on your own account iecured to you, by the everlasting 413 LETTERS. covenant of grace, while it as'^ures you, that the Lord, the e\er livings all sufficienl, and unchanging God, is your Friend and Savio.ir, vour refuge and portion in tht; land of the living ; that he will never leave you nor forsake you, bnt «ri!l be found ready, by his gracious presence, to fill the great and wide breach, which he ha^ made in your socihl, mortal coniforts. He is ready to turn the tears of your pie^ent mourning, into songs of everlasting joy and praise, by m.iking this affliction, which nature feels to be great and heavy, but which faith, contemplating it in the view of eternity, pronounces to be light and but for a moment, not only yield to you the present peaceable fruit of righteousness, but work out for you a far more exceeding and eternal weight of future glory. But what can I suggest, adapted to give your thoughts their right direction, or to sooth your sorrows, which is not already familiar to your own mind ? Long have you, as I trust and believe, been taught of God, by his word and Spirit, to understand, and with an approv- ing, adoring heart, to acknowledge, that he is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works ; that he doth no wrong to any of his creatures, and that as he doth all things well on the great scale, so in his infinite wis- dom, grace and love, he orders and sanctifies all things to work for good, to the^n that love him ; and long, as I doubt not, have you found by experience, that all the paths of the Lord towards you have been mercy and truth, while many of those things, which for awhile seemed to be most against you, have at length, appear- ed to be most favourable in their tendency and ef- fects, to the promotion of your best interests, your spiritual interests at least, if not your temporal. Let your faith and persuasiou of these things, be now stron^^ LETTERS. 417 and grow still stronger and stronger, and in the multi- tude of your troubled, anxious thoughts within you, let the comforts resulting from the firm belief of these things, still delight your soul. And may He to whom it belongs to give peace effec- tually back to you, afflicted and destitute, as you may now feel yourself, to say from the heart, and with a cor- dial satisfaction, the Lord is my portion, therefore will I hope in him, yea, I will still joy in the God of my sal- vation. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and by thy providence and grace, in the right and best way, through the changing scenes of mortality, the darkest and most perplexing, as well as the more pleasing and comfortable, and afterward receive me to glory. To the word and to the Spirit of his grace, I commend you ; and it is my earnest praj er, that whde you have the consolation of knowing, that in covenant faithfulness, and for your present spiritual profit, and the advance- ment of your future eternal joy, the Lord has afflicted you ; your dear children also, who are sharers with you in your affliction, and who are spared, I trust, to be in various ways comforters to you, may know that it is good for them to be thus afflicted, while this severe af- fliction, through the supply of the spirit of Christ, is made to turn to their salvation. When forsaken or de- prived of so valuable a father, whose counselH and prayers, were so affectionately employed and contin- ued for their present and eternal welfare, let their hearts be the more earnestly engaged in praying for themselves, that the Lord their heavenly Father, may take them up, and be their guide and guardian, their friend and Saviour, and sanctify them as seed that shall serve him, and be accounted to the Loid for a generation, which 53 4t^ LETTERS. he will delight to bless and to honor. May the Lord indeed bless them, and make them blessings ; and pre- pare and engage fhem to follow one parent, alreadj gone to inherit the promises of grace fulfilled in glory, and fo accompany anolher, *' Yet marching through Immanuel's ground, to fairer world's on high." The bereaved church and congregation, lately fa- voured wilh his ministerial service*:, will, 1 hope* re- ceive admonition from the frowning Providence, which has thus deprived them of the many inestimable bless- ings included in a faithful gospel ministry ; while they will, I trust, feel that it is their duty, to bow with submis- sion to the sovereign will of the Lord, who has an ab- solute right, whenever he pleases to remove from a peo- ple, the pastor whom he had appointed to watch for their souls, and to call out of his vineyard a faithful labourer, who before he had borne the burden and heat of the day, so long as some others have done, were called home to their rest and reward. And let them, now with united hearts and fer>ent prayers, look up to the great Head of the church, who has smitten them^ that he may heal them, that he may sanctify to them the heavy afflictive stroke wilh which he has visited them, and speedily send them another pastor after his own heart, who shall feed them with the knowledge of the pure go«pel, and by a worthy example of christian faith and piety, go before them in the way to glory^ honor and immortality. In a poor state of health, and under the debilitating effects of very warm weather, I have, with an evident want of mental vigor, and no small degree of bodily fatigue, extended this letter to an unexpected and in- convenient length. After so long a delay, let it be LETTERS, 419 kindly accepted as a proof, that 1 had not forgotten you in your afflictions, but was slili disposed, if 1 had health and spirits, to express my tender sympathy for you, and to be the minister of consolation to you. Since we have heard of the alarming state in which New London lias been placed, we have feared that you and others at Norwich, may not only hear the dreadful sound of war so near yon, but may be involved in some of its conflicts, or caiamilies. Should your hearts be in danger of being overwhelmed, may you be enabled, with a strong faith, to resort to the rock that is higher than you, and find that Jehovah is a shelter for you, and a strong to^ver from the enemy : and trusting in the covert of his wings, may you find that he will keep you in perfect peace, because you trust in him, and your mind and heart are stayed upon him. Hitherto, we in this city and the adjacent counlry, have felt the war only, or chiefly in the way of commercial losses and privations, the stagnation of almost all kinds of bu- siness, and the consequent difficulties to which many of the labouring and poorer classes especially, are reduc- ed. But if it continues much longer, we have reason \o apprehend that our city will have some experience of what others have already deeply felt, that Ihe bailie of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood. Oh that the Lord would give to our rulers, and to our nation, an heart deeply humbled in true re- pentance under his mighty hand, rnd disposed to turn from our abounding transgressions, that iniquity may not yet be our ruin ; and that he may be entreated by the prayers of the righteous, throughout our land, and for the Redeemer's sake, to pardon our manifold na- tional sins, to turn away all his anger from us, to deliver 420 LETTERS. US from Ihe dreadful scourge of war, and lo restore (o us the blessings of a desirable and lasting peace ! Our church here, received during the past year, an addition of about eighty members ; among these was your and our friend Mr. O. last fall, as well as Mrs. O. in the spring preceding. They are both truly worthy and excellent persons, and are now, I trust, with united hearts, travelling to a better country, even an heavenly. Be so good as to make my apology to Mrs. T. for ^ my not writing a direct answer to lier excellent letter. It was read by a number of friends here, with the liveli- est interest, and the tenderest sympathy. The state of my health and spirits which have so long delayed this, have prevented my answering hers in any other way, than in this communication to you. Though not per- sonally acquainted with Mrs. T. her letter has taught us to esteem and love her. And as she has been sensibly aflBicted in your afflictions, may our gracious Lord, make her a sharer with you in his sanctifying grace, and in his consolations, which are not small ! The expression of your dear M's lo\e, and good wishes as well as your own, is very acceptable to us. We hope she will know, by happy experience, the mean- ing of those important words of the best of friends, "I love them that love me, and those that seek me early, shall find me." Mrs. K. reminds me that she has not written to you, as she believes, although I thought she had, since the death of her sister T. who died on the 2*2d of Septem- ber last, after a lingering and painful illness. All who have had opportunity, have desired us to express to you their affectionate regards, and tender sympathy. You would very much oblige us by writing as soon, as - LETTERS, 421 praclicable, very particularly relative (o Mr. H*s last scene, &c. and concerning your children. To the mercy and grace of God, in Christ Jesus our Lord, you and I hey are affectionately commended, by your cordial friends, I, S. AND J. KEITH. TO REV. DR. M. CHARLESTON, JULY 4, 180S. MY DEAR FRIEND, Amidst the ringing of bells, and the roaring of cannon, and all the parade, and bustle, and noise* with which (his anniversary of a day so important, and so glorious to America, is celebrated here, as it is doubtless, in like manner, in a thousand other places, I am now seated in ihe tranquil recess of my study ; and have taken up my pen, for the purpose of scrawling a few lines to you. I congratulate you on the return of this auspicious day, in circumstances adapted to diffuse the liveliest gratitude and joy, throughout the great people and vast territory of these United States. To every genuine reflecting patriot, the usual satisfactions of this day must be greatly heightened, by the recol- lection of the dark and portentous clouds, which were lately seen resting and spreading farther and wider upon our prospects ; and by the consideration of the bright and pleasing scene, which " the good hand of our God upon us,'* has again opened to our view. The Lord hath indeed again done great things for us, whereof all among 422 LETTERS. US, who trulj love our country, must be glad. Among the thousands, and tens of thousands, who will this day express their joy on account oi these things, in pealing, and firing, and eating and drinking, and toasting and carousing, how many will be found disposed to of- fer the thanksgivings of a grateful heart, to the God of our mercies, to rejoice in Him as the source of their personal and social happiness, and in the prayer of faith, to commend themselves and their country, and the church, to his care and keeping, expecling safety and prosperity for the time to come, onlyunder his smiles, and through his blessing ? Many such, I trust, there are dispersed through this great community. May the Lord increase their number, how many soever they may be, an hundred fold ! For these are every where the truly excellent of the earth ; and they are the chief glory and strongest bulwark of every land. ^ :)(: ^ :lt ^ ^ ^ Tr VT TV* TT TV" "Tr "TV* A second Presbyterian church, as I believe I have already intimated to you, has been lately formed in this city, partly out of the old Scotch congregation, and partly by persons who have not heretofore been close- ly connected with any church in this city. These peo- ple have called, and lately settled, the Rev. A. F. as their pastor, with a salary of ^2000 ; and they have been very successful in obtaining subscriptions, to the amount of about §35,000, for building an house of wor- ship. This is to be of brick, 90 feet by 70, with a steeple, &c. The foundation is already laid, and the work will be carried on with all practicable despatch. I know not that the appearances of real vital religion, are yet more promising in this new congregation, than they have been for a long time in the old Presbyterian LETTERS. 423 congregation. But as Mr. F. is considered as a pious man, and an evangelical preacher, it is hoped that he may prove a blessing to them, in promoting the knowl- edge and practice of pure and undefiled religion among them. Mr. F. has lately sailed for the northward, in- tending to spend the summer abroad ; and supposing it probable that he may visit Boston, I have given him a letter of introduction to you ; and 1 expect that you will have an opportunity of hearing him preach, and of being informed of many things respecting us here, that I cannot now write. The hazards of the summer sea- son in this climate, and especially in this city, to a fam- ily with northern constitutions, form a serious item in the calculations that should be made on this subject. How often have wy fondest wishes and favourite plans, been disappointed ? What a privilege is it to be brought at length by the smarting discipline of infinite Wisdom, cheerfully to acquiesce in the will and dispo- sal of God, who alone knows what is best for us, and who doth all things well, not only on the great scale, but for every individual of his peculiar and beloved people and faithful servants ! As all things shall assur- edly work for good to them that lo^e God ; if we love our God and Saviour in sincerity, we may then rest as- sured, that if there be any other situation in the world, that would be on the whole better for us, than that in which we are now placed, he will, in the proper time and way, conduct us into it ; and if there be not, then we may console and encourage ourselves with the per- suasion, that abiding with him where we now are, he will be with us, furnish us with strength according to our day, and enable us acceptably to serve and glorify 424 LETTERS. him, till he shall remove us to glorif/, and enjoy him for ever in heaven. I am much pleased to hear of the hopeful beginnings, and promising prospects, of your Theological Institu- tion. Under (he smiles and blessings of heaven, may it grow and flourish more and more ! We are very much grafitied with the affectionate re- membrance of our warm friend R. united with that of his parents. May the Lord bless the lad, and make him a blessing ! By his Bible, with the teaching of the spirit of truth and grace, I hr.pe he will be made wise to salvation, through faith in Christ Jesus. Thus may he, and your other dear boys, be blessed indeed, and for ever. Let us be respectfully mentioned to all in- quiring friends, and assure yourselves of your living in the hearts of I. S. AND J. KEITH. t^* TO REV MR. P. CHARLESTON, AUGUST 6, 181©. MY DEAR FRIEND, Your favour, under date July 11th, was du- ly received, at the same time with one from Mrs. M. to Mrs. K. Mrs. K. will endeavour ere long to recip- rocate Mrs. M's fa \ our. For yours, accept my sin- cere thanks. I was much aratified in receiving and /perusing it ; and to both of us it was very pleasing to find that you and Mr?. P. wilh the children, had been favoured wi'h so prosperous and expedilious a passage by sea, and Journey by land, that in the space of a LETTERS. 425 fortnight after you left C ton, you should have it in your power to write to me from C town ; and there in the hospitable mansion of our mutual worthy friends, to tell us of their welfare, of that of their fami- ly, and that your own health is improving. Has your gratitude in all its proper feelings and expressions, kept pace with the rich variety, and rapid succession of the goodness and mercy of the Lord, which have at- tended and followed you and yours ? I presume you think that it is well for you, that though this is your most reasonable and pleasant duty, ye! on this are you not io found your hopes, of the mercy and grace, which you still need to make the rest of your way prosper- ous and comfortable. Where you do not adequately praise, and love, and obey, you may acceptably repent and believe, and repenting and believing, you may still hope, in and through that divine Mediator, who is the Lord, your righteousness and strength. For his sake, may the God of your mercies still preserve your going out and coming in, and assure your heart that He is with you to keep you in all places, through which > ou pass, until he bring you again in peace to your hone and church ; and then give you the tlisposition, to- gether with the occasion for sayinjr, " Return unto thy rest, O my soul, for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee !" The variegated, beautiful, magnificent scenery, through which you have passed, and with which you will be almost continually surrounded in the northern and middle States, must be highly interesting to your imagination and feelings ; and the air and exercise, which you are enjoying on so agreeable a tour, will, I ^ust, have the most favourable iafluence, on the iiur 42G LETTERS. provement of your health and constifutlon. If joufind preaching does not injure yourself, be not reluctant to do all the good which may be in your power, in this way to others. But let not the easiness ot 3'our tem- per, be prevailed on by any importunity, to relieve any lazy brethreuy especially by labours beyond your pres- ent strength, and which would prevent or retard that increase of strength, which you should endeavour to acquire while abroad, with the view of spending it again in the service, and for the benefit of your own people at home. The season here, excepting eight or ten days, about the middle of July, when the weather was extremely warm and dry, has been on the whole the most pleas- ant that I have ever enjoyed in Carolina ; and the city has continued hitherto very healthy. Oh, that we would praise the Lord for his mercies ; and render again to him according to the benefits received from him ! The affairs of our church remain much in the same state in which you left them. What the issue will be, is known only to the great Head of the church. May He bring good out of evil, and overrule all circum- stances, however adverse and threatening they may ap- pear, to work for the good of his church, which he has bought with his blood, and which he cherishes with the most watchful and tender solicitude as the apple of his eye. And we may rest assured, that in his everlasting and unchangeable love to it, he will disappoint every weapon formed against it by its enemies ; and correct every error of its friends, so that learning wisdom under the discipline of his hand, as well as by the teaching of LETTERS. 42f his word and spirit, thej may better understand the proper methods of promoting ils interests. Before you left this place, I believe, the constitution of the Bible Society was adopted. An election of the Board of Managers took place on the lOlh of July ; the result of which you may probably see in some of the newspapers. On the several subscription papers, the names of about 300 members, and funds to the a- mount of about g2500 have been procured. There are about 20 life subscribers, of g50 each. On the list in my hands, there have been received twelve of these life subscribers, and about an hundred other subscri- bers, and cash to the amount of ^1120; and all except- ing the instances of a very few who sent to me their names and their money, within the limits of our own congregations, from whom I expect still some consid- erable additions. # # # * # Adieu, ISAAC s. keith., TO REV. DR. S. CHARLESTON, MAY 3, 1791, TUESDAY. REV. AND DEAR FATHER, This is Jubilee week in Charleston. Al- most all business is suspended, and joy and rejoicing universally prevail. This you would naturally expect on the present occasion ; when you hear that the illus- trious and beloved President of the United States is now among us. He arrived here yesterday about one o'clock. In his way he had to crosiB a ferry on Cooper 428 LETTERS. river at its juncfion with the bay of Charleston, three miles wide from Haddrell's point to (he city. Over this he was conveyed in an elegant barge, displaying a splendid flag of the United Slates, and rowed by thir- teen American captains of vessels, all dressed in a beautiful uniform of sky blue silk jackets. Theiroars moved in concert with a band of music, playing all the way. Sloops, schooners, pettiaugers, and boats of va- rious descriptions, to the number of perhaps two and three score, freighted with ladies, gentlemen, &c. &.c. attended the barge that was honored with the impor- tant and distinguished trust of carrying the President, and constituted a fine fleet, which, in the eyes of the cit- izens of Charleston, appeared incomparably more glori- ous and charming, than all the royal navy of Great Britain, which filled their port and the neighbouring riv- ers, during the years of the late revolution. The at- mosphere was clear and serene, the sun shone brightly, without any excess of heat ; and the water was gently and agreeably moved by a sweet refreshing breeze. On turning a point of land near the city, which brought the fleet full in view of the inhabitants, a federal salute was fired by a ship prepared for that purpose in the harbour. All the vessels in the harbour, were dressed as gaily as their respective wardrobes would permit. The numbers and variety of people who filled the ves- sels, decks and tops, the wharves, the streets, the doors, the windows, the balconies, and even some of the roofs of the houses, you can more easily imagine than I can describe. When the barge arrived at the wharf, the President was received and welcomed on shore and in Charleston, by the Governor and Lieut. Governor, the principal officers of the Union and of LETTERS. 429 4lie State, anr] by the foreign ronsuls, and escorted by a guarcJ of niiiitia, well equipped and dressed in handsome uniform ; u:jder a loud peal of hdzzis from ihe surround- ing crowd : and now a feu de joy was fired by the corps of artillery paraded in Bay-street, opposite to the place of landing. This corps, which served their country with great honor djjrins: the late war, made a truly military, and very respectable appearance. They are also mili- tia, composed of the citizens. From the place of landing, the President, now attended by the honorable company by which he was first received, proceeded up to Bay-street, adjoining the wharf; and thence led a procession formed of the different orders of citizens, waose stations had been previously assigned by lot ; except that of the cler2;y, to whom the honor was giv- en of walking next after the President and principal of- ficers of government and foreign ministers. The pro- cession moved along Bay-street, till the head of it ad- vanced to the Exchange. Then the President, accom- panied by the Governor, and those who immediately followed, including the clergy, ascended the steps of the Exchan2;e, and took his station on an elevated and spacious platform, which belongs to that elegant build- ing. Here another feu de joy was fired by the artille- ry, accompanied by a loud and general huzza, huzza, huzza. Here the rest of the procession passed by, down the same street, and had all an opportunity of seeing and saluting the President, and receiving the honors of his bows and smiles. And here all the com- pany attending around him, had the honor and pleas- ure of taking him by the hand. After this ceremony, he with his attendants, descended again into the street; and then the procession facing about, the rear became 430 LBTTERS, the front of those who had remained in the street ; and in this order thej followed him and the preceding com- pany along Broad-street, as far as to Church-street, and then down Church-street nearly the distance of a square, to the house provided for his accommodation, during his stay in the city ; and there with three more cheers, they left him to repose himself, till the hour of dinner. He dined in a private manner, with the Gov- ernor and a few official gentlemen, and select friends. To-day at 4 o'clock he is to partake of a public dinner at the Exchange, given by the Intendant and Wardens, at the expense of the city. To-morrow, he is to dine with the society of Cincinnati ; the next day with the Governor in public ; the next day with Major Butler, one of our Senators in Congress ; and the next day with the Chamber of commerce, or merchants of Charleston, Several addresses are to be presented to him, which with his answers, you will no doubt, in due season, see in your papers ; and through the same channel, you will probably be favoured with a much bet- ter history of the transactions which I have attempted to detail, than is contained in this hastily and carelessly written letter. Thus has it been done, and thus is it proposed to be done to the man, whom the people of Charleston, with an affection and zeal in which they are not exceeded by any of the citizens of the United States, delight to honor. That the ladies too, may have an opportunity of enjoying the pleasure of his presence among them, of paying their respects, and testifying their love to him, and of displaying all their charms of beauty, dress, and address before him, there is to be a splendid ball in a magnificent apartment of the Exchange, on Wednesday evening ; and a grand LETTERS, 431 concert on another evening. The ornaments provided for the embellishment of the lovely persons of many of our fair citizens on these occasions, are, as I am told, extremely rich and superb ; probably in many degrees above the taste of so plain a Virginia planter, as the worthy George Washington. There are in particular, many ribbons included among these orna- ments, painted with miniature likenesses of the Presi- dent, or the initials of his name ; and the words, Long live the President : and. He coines, the Hero comes, &c. &c. which, if I mistake not, will appear to his mod- esty and delicacy more flattering than pleasing. On the whole you may rest assured that no preparations or exertions, which our circumstances will, or will not allow, have been wanting, to render this joyous occa- sion one of the most brilliant seras, in the history of the splendours and rejoicings of Charleston. But ah ! on Monday next, the 9th of May, after a stay of only one short week, the President, who has been the great cause, and the principal lustre of all this bright scene, is to bid us a long farewell, and proceed on his journey to Georgia ; and leave us to proceed in our old walks of business and care, which are now generally relin- quished for the more attractive pursuits of amusement, and pleasures of festivity. From Georgia, the Presi- dent is to return through the interior country, to his own seat, and finally to your city, I suppose, in the fall. May God protect, and guide, and bless him; till the course of his useful life is finished ; and then add to all the honors which he has received from his fellow men on earth, the infinitely higher and more lasting honors included in that sentence of the great Judge ©f all, " Well done good and faithful servant ; Thou 432 LETTERS. hast been faithful over a few tbinws ; I will make fbee ruler over many things ; enter thou into the joy of thjr Lord." I thought to have finished my epistle here ; but I must go on a little further, as I have yet taken no no- tice of your last favour, of the 6th of April. 1 now Ihank you for this, as T have heretofore done for all your former epistolary favours. Do not fear that you will ever write too often, or too much at a time. We are never tired, but always much gratified with reading your paternal letters : and it will be our fault, if they are not useful to us, as they always contain some good advice ; and hints for profitable improvement. Is it not in this month that the General Assembly of your church meets T Is it well attended ; and does it promise to answer the purposes of its institution ? I sus- pect that upon trial, it will be found, that in the forma- tion of that body, and the arrangement of the subordin- ate synods, the peculiar situation of our country, its ex- tended bounds, &c. have not been duly consulted. Does not the General Assembly appear to be rather toa few in number, to execute with adequate authority and dignity, all the great business that comes before it ; and are not the subordinate synods neglected, as of too lit- tle consequence to he attended t>y any but those who live near the place of meelins;? f have heard sugges- tions of this kind ; ?nd froni circumsJanres, there seems to be reason to conclude Ihat they are roo well found- ed. From Ions habit, I feel a strong inclination at this season to visit Philadelphia, anf! attend vour church judicatories. But distance now precludes every hope of realizins; my wishes, in the manner which I could formerly do it. Here are no such opportunities of at- LETTERS. 433 tending the meetings of clerical brethren, as occur among you : and I think the want of these a considera- ble disadvantage of my present situation. But my situation is in so many other respects, so much more desirable, than in my former place of residence, that I have hitherto seen daily reason to be thankful to a kind Providence and his instruments, for pointing out and accomplishing the change. Assure my dear niother and all the branches of the family, of my continued esteem and affeclionate re- gards, in which a beloved father also shares, as largely as he can wish. I endeavour daily to remember you all at the throne of grace, and hope you will not there forget your children. I. S. AND H. KEITH. t-xfl OHA.RLESTON, JULY 15, 1811. TO MR. ANDREW P. GREADY, PRESIDENT OF THE CONGREGATIONAL SOCIETY. DEAR SIR, 1 HAVE been favoured with the very friendly letter, which as President, and in behalf of " The Con-' gregational Society/ for Religious Worship,^^ you lately addressed to me, and in which you politely ex- press their wish, that I would consider myself as a mem- ber ; at least an honorary one, of the society ; and that I would place my name on the list of the subscribers to its rules. 434 LETTERS. Accept, dear sir, for ^oiiiself and the society, my grateful acknowle(!2:ments for the honor tlius done lue. In compliance wifh iheir desire, I hove added my sig- nature to the rules; and I feel myself, together with my fauiily, cordially disposed to attend the meetings of the society, when circumstances may allow us that pleasure. But from my various engagements, the im- perfect state of my health, and the place and seasons of meeting, that will probably be most convenient to the members generally, I am apprehensive, that 1 shall but rarely have it in my power to attend with them. The very small services which I have rendered to- wards the establishment and organization of the society, they have much too highly appreciated. There seem- ed, indeed, but little need or room for any aid, which I coijld contribute to the laudable undertaking ; as, in my view, it appeared to be conducted, by those most immediately concerned, and engaged in it with a spirit of christain zeal and discrenon, which promised, through the blessing of God, the most desirable result. The pious design met, at once, my entire approba- tion, and my heart has felt an high gratification in the success, which has thus far attended the counsels and efforts, which have been employed for realizing the im- portant benefits contemplated. The Lord your God and Saviour, will, I trust, " es- tablish and prosper this work of your hands, in which you have hopefully engaged, with a view to his glory, in the promotion of the great interests of your own souls, and the advancement of his cause in the world, as far as your rnfiiience and usefulness can be extended, in the sta- tions which you occupy in the chinch, and in the con^mu- nity. *'The Lord will assuredly be with you, while you are with him." And as you would expect his presence LETTERS. 43i> and favour, let it be still your leading aim, and your most solicitous care, that the great ** name of your God may, in all res^pects, be glorified in and by you, through Jesi.'S Christ your Lord" and mediator: and that you may maintain and cultivate a spirit of love, and harmo- ny among yourselves ; ever studying " lo walk worthy- of the \ocHtion wberewith you are called, with all low- liness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavouring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace ; remembering that there is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling."^ Cherishing such dispositions, and manifesting them in the general tenor of your conduct, you may, with humble confidence hope, that your Lord, according to the promises of his truth and grace, will be in the midst of you, when from time to time you meet in his name for his worship ; and that his blessing will render the religious services in which you unite, subservient to the important purposes of drawing your souls nearer to himself, in the exercises and pleasures of the most im- proving and delightful communion ; of uniting your hearts more closely and tenderly to each other in christian affection, sympathy, and fellowship ; and of making you thus eminently helpful to each other, under your various labours and trials, temptations and sor- rows, and instrumental to the establishment and ad- vancement of each other's faith, and hope, and peace, and joy on earth, and the increase of each other's meetness for the incorruptible, unfading inheritance of eternal glory and felicity, reserved for the friends and followers of Christ in heaven. While in this way, your walk may be maintained more closely with God, your * Ephes. iv. 1—4. 436 LETTERS. light may at the same time, shine more brightly before men, and many aroiintJ you, " taking knowledge of yon, that you have been with Jesus," may be excited and animated, to desire and resolve, that they will be- come " followers bf you, as they see you are of Christ.'* Thus your sociely may be enlarged, which "though its beginning has been small, yet may its lalter end be- come greatly increased ;" and thus also new members mighl be added to the church among such as shall be saved. How interesting, how delightful the thought 1 that thus you would be pursuing the course, and im- proving the means most favourable to the growth of your infant institution, of your own souls in grace, and in the knowledge of your Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and of the church of Christ; and especially of that branch of it with which you are most intimately connected I The prosperity of ** the church, which God our Saviour has bought with his own blood," will, I trust, ever lie near your hearts, and be constantly remember- ed by you in your prayers. Having thus dearly pur- chased it, and still regarding it as the apple of his eye, he has spoken glorious things of it, and promised io do great things for it, and these things he will be found able and faithful to accomplish, in their season. "Yet for these things will he be inquired of by his people, that he may do them." And he puts a special honor upon them, when he represents hifnself as condescending to perform what he has purposed and promised to do, in answer to their prayers : and what greater honor and encouragement could be given to social prayer, in par- ticular, than what our blessed Lord has given to it ? when he says, " If even any two of you shall agree LETTERS. 43f on earth, as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall he done for rhem of my Father who is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them."* May this promise be graciously tulfiiled to you, as it has been in ijHiunierable instances to olhers, who, in the Lord's ap- pointed way, have sought and found him, who have asked in faiili, and conformably to his declared will, have received the blessings of his grace and favour for Ihemselveif:, and foioflieis, for whora Uiey have prajed! In fhe huiuble and animaling hope that this may be your happy experience, pray constantly and fervently for the peace of Jerusalem ; for *♦ the outpouring of fiie spirit from on higli" upon all the branches of the church, (hat " the Lord's work may be revived," and his salvation be displaj^ed in them with great glory " in the midst of these years ;" and that the church it- self may "be established, and be a praise in all the earth,*' and all the nations of tribes of mankind become united in it as brethren of one famil}', " loving each oJh- cr with pure hearts fervently, and by love serving one anolher." And in the view of this most desirable state of Zion's peace and prosperity, forget not to pray for its pastors ; and especially for those under whose pastoral care you are placed, that, having " the minis- try of reconciliation committed to them," they may faithfidly preach the gospel to their hearers, and that, by the co operating influence of divine grace, it may prove " the power of God, to the salvation of those who hear its joyful sound." How interesting the sub- ject of your prayers, and how animating the hope which you are authorized to cherish in them, when in praying for the ministers of the gospel, you are directed Matthew xviii. 18, 19. 438 LETTEBS. to pray, that through their minisfry " the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified every where as well as among yourselves;'* and when you are assured, by many great and precious promises, that by the universal spread of the light, the truth, and the grace of the gospel, all the people dwelling on (he face of the whole earth, shall be taught the knowledge of the only living and true God in Jesus Christ, his Son ; and shall be brought to praise and serve him as their God and Saviour, " from the rising of the sun, even to the going down thereof;" and " the whole earth shall be filled with his glory !" That part of the plan of your society, which relates to the establishment of a small, but select library; consisting chiefly of books on divinity, (inculcating the purest evangelical sentiments, and the best adapted to promote christian practice) appears to me to be a well judged, and very important measure ; as it will provide a rich source of improvement to the mind and the heart, and will probably have a considerable effect in promot- ing the increase of your members, and strengthening the bonds of their union. It has long been my wish to see a Library, consist- ing principally of this description of books, owned by our church, and at once adequate to the wants, and ap- propriated chiefly to the use, of our congregations. The advantages of such an establishment for dissemin- ating correct sentiments and enlarged information on re- ligious subjects, and in exciting the attention of many persons, to their best, their spiritual interests ; to the things of their present and eternal peace. I trust that to the members of your society at least, the books which you may now obtain, and which may be gradual- LETTERS. 439 \y increased, will be productive of much improvement in knowledge and grace. It has, from the first, been my intention and deter- mination, to contribute some aid to your society, to. wards the accomplishment of this laudable design, by presenting to them some books, which I supposed would be particularly acceptable and useful to them. Accordingly, together with the books presented by Mr. Woodward, to your society,* I have the pleasure of presenting to the society at the present time in my own name, the books mentioned in the subjoined list. [Here follows the list, amounting to upwards of $50.] In the choice, and in thje use of books, and in your religious exercises and in all your proceedings as a so- ciety and as individuals, may you be favoured with that wisdom which is profitable to direct, and with that all-sufficiency of grace, which will enable you, in all the instances of your conduct, *' to do all to the glory of God" through Jesus Christ your Redeemer and Medi- ator. To theguidance, the keeping, and the blessing of the great and gracious God, even our blessed Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, I affectionately commend you ; and with all christian regards, and my constant prayers for your welfare and happiness, collectively and indi- vidually, in time and through eternity, I remain, Your sincere and cordial friend, ISAAC S. KEITH. • To the amount of ^20.^ 440 LETTERS. i^&i TO DR. E. S, CHARLESTON, JfUJTE 11, 1810, MT DEAR FRIEND, A OUR welcome favour, of the lOth of May, I have received. If gave me a very peculiar pleasure. I cordially thank jou for it ; and I desire to be fervently thankful to the God of all grace, on ac- count of his grace having been so exceedinsrly abun- dant towards you, as to enable you to fill \our letter with a very pleasing detail of circumstances and events, most important to yourself, and deeply interesting to all your friends. The history of hf^roes and conquer- ors, of the revolutions of nations, and establishment of empires, that have filled the earth with fame and glory, shrinks into insiofnificance, in the view of an immortal soul, delivered by the AImi2:hty Redeemer from the bondage of snfan and the chains of sin ; and by the en- lightening, new creatin<^ energy of the sp«rit of grace, emerging from darkness to lizht, passing; from death to life, and rising from self to God, and from earth to heaven. Has such, my dear friend, been the great, the hap- py change, which you have experienced ? Wow rea- sonable, how p!ea?!ant, must you, so far at least as you have evidence of your being; the subject of such a change, now feel the duty of thanksgiving and praise, while adoring gratitude prompts and constrains you to say with the apostle, " By the jrrace of God T am what I am." Are you a christian indeed ? Such, I would LETTERS. 441 fondly hope you now are. And is there any interesf, any honor, any happiness to which the renewed, sanc- tified heart can aspire, that is not inchided in the char- acter and state of a christian ; while for such it is pro- vided, by the sure, welKordered, everlasting covenant, of which Jesus is the blessed Mediator, that an all-suffi- ciency of grace, suited to every present necessity, shall be given ; and that this grace shall be crowned with future eternal glory ! How desirable, indeed, is that state of grace in which, as I trust, you now stand and rejoice in hope of the glory of God ! And how remark- able the method of the Lord's dealing with you, in or- der to bring you into this happy state ! If you had been left to yourself, you, with the men of the world, would have chosen your portion in this life. With them you aspired to the honors of the world, you coveted its interests and prosperity ; and if the world smiled, and you could repose on the bosom of your beloved family, enjoying, together with your- self, health and temporal comfort, you flattered your- self that your happiness would be complete. How this scene of fancied happiness would have soon terminated, I need not now remind you. Most mercifully have you been awakened from the pleasing, delusive dream, and taught " to seek superior bliss." Your plans and prospects of ambition and of wealth, were disconcert- ed and disappointed ; and a darling child, that was be- coming more and more the idol of your heart, was re- moved to the bosom of your Lord, who says, " Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven." The hopes, al- so, which you were building on the ground of your own righteousness, soon fell before the power of sin, dwell- 56 442 LETTERS. ing in jon, and under the sentence of the ]3.w, applied by the Spirif, and convincijjg you, that by no present or future obedience, or repentance, or reformation, could you ever be justified before God. " All these things," your sense and your reason were ready to exclaim, " all these things are against me !" But God's thoughts are not our thoughts, nor are oup ways his ways. *' For as iiie heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than jour thoughts, saith the Lord." And accordingly, you have found the dispensations of his providence, which to yon weie most obscure, perplex- ing, and distressing, accompanied by his sanctifying blessing, made to work together most effect ually for your good. Your favourite schemes and hopes of worldly joy were broken, that you might be constrained to seek your all in God ; and that your soul might be compelled to seek its rest in the Redeemer, who gives his peace to all that come to him believing, and trusting in his name, and a peace such as the world can neither give, nor take away. Thus through the supply of the spirit of Jesus Christ, all those apparent adverse and threatening cir- cumstances and events, under which your heart was in- clined to be so restive and rebellious, have been made instrumental to promote your humiliation and repent- ance, to excite you to fly for refuge, to lay hold on the hope set before you, in the Saviour of the guilty, the wretched, and the helpless, and have happily turned to the furtherance of your salvation. And now, when you see that like the blind, you were led in a way that you knew not, and in the right and best way to present peace and future joy, it may surely be most reasonably LETTERS. 443 expected of you, that wilh a lively gralilude you will acknowledge, that the Lord hath done all thino;s well for you ; and that under an affecting sense of j our ob- ligations, you will be disposed to consecrate yourself, and your all, (o his service and glory, so that you may live no longer to yourself, but entirely to the God of your mercies and salvation. From the tenor of your letter, I am led to hope and believe, that thus you are disposed and resolved, through grace, henceforth to live to the noblesit and best of purposes, and worthy of the profession and hopes of a christian. But still "you fear, that you are only deceiving your- self'with a name to live, while you may yet be dead; because you have not felt such convictions of the guilt and enormity of sin, as others appear to have done ; and you do not feel that affection and zeal, which you should do towards that blessed Saviour, who made such an inexpressible sacrifice for perishing sinners." Such fears and su.ch complaints, my dear friend, are sooner or later, and in a greater or less degree, general- ly experienced by real penitents and sincere believers. The more, indeed, they see and feel the evil of sin, the more sensible are they of the disproportion of their hu- miliations and sorrows, to the evil which they really la- ment and abhor; and the more clearly they perceive their infinite obligations to the dear Redeemer, to whom they are so deeply indebted, the more defective and unworthy do they^hink those returns of gratitude, love and obedience, with which they would honor him. And remember, that an eminent part of the tri- als of chri^.tians consists in the conflicts of remaining corruptions, with the principles of grace Implanted, and living, and still growing in the new-born soul of the real 444 LETTERS. believer. Nor can Ihey, certainly, be allogether strangers to the christian life, who can sincerely saj with the apostle, " That which I do I allow not ; for what I would that I do not ; but what I hate that I do/' &c. Such is the frequent experience of the best of christians ; and this experience, though very painful in itself, is yet well adapted to empty them more and more of pride and self in every form, and to render the Saviour, who is the end of the law for righteousness io all believers,. and in whom all fulness dwells, for the supply of all their wants, more and more precious to their souls. To him, then, resort with faith and prayer, and in him repose your trust, under all your xiif- ficulfies and discouragements ; and rest assured, that you will still find his grace sufficient for yoji, and bis strength made perfect in your weakness, for the whole of the work and warfare to which he calls you. But I have already passed the bounds which I had prescribed to myself; and it seems to be almost super- fluous, if not indeed assuming in me, to have made the observations respecting your case which 1 have done ; or to have suggested hints of advice to you, who are al- ready so well instructed, and who have such excellent guides in the pious, judicious, and experienced authors, whose writings you may daily peruse. Henry is an excellent commentator. But I would, in preference, recommend Scott to you, for your assist- ance in consulting the Sacred U^acles of God ; as the latfer is not less, if not even more evangelical than the former, and his notes and practical observations are pe- culiarly instructive, interesting and impressive. In Newton's Works, especially in his letters, you will find such a plenty, and variety, and excellence of LETTERS. 44& advice, admonition, consolation and encouragement, convejed in the most pieasing and engaging language and manner, that you will see reason enough for my be- ing ashamed of scrawling a line on any subject touch- ed by the hand of such a master, in my communica- tions to any friend, who is possessed of his valuable volumes. One of my subordinate inducements to- wards sending you the two volumes of his posthumous works, was rather of a selfish nature; I mean the expectation that such a present, considering how much valuable and suitable instruction it contains, would have a tendency to preclude your asking any communications from my pen, sterile and sluggish, as I know it is, and as you will now feel it to be. I believe you have Buck's Miscellaneous Works : and his treatise on Religious experience, and Young Christian's Guide, you will find peculiarly worthy of your attention. 1 wish you had also Scott's Theological Works, They are generally very valuable ; and his Essays on the leading doctrines and duties, &c. of Christianity, are pre-eminently excellent. But in recommending good books, it is diflScult to know whereto stop. Still, how- ever, let the inspired word of God be chiefly studied, with earnest prayer for the teaching of his spirit, by which alone it can become effectual, for making us wise unto salvation, through faith in Christ ; and profitable to us for doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction in righteousness, and for furnishing us thoroughly unto all good works, and thus advancing us in our progress to- wards christian perfection. While I have been saying so much about books, I suppose you have been feeling, with a lively sensibili- ty, and therefore need not now be reminded by me, 446 LETTERS. how peculiarly thankful you ought to be, to the God of your mercies, for having so graciously and so seasona- bly prepared, the dear wife of j^our bosoui, the amiable and beloved partner of your soul, to be indeed an help- meet for you, and a most pleasant and useful compan- ion to you, in the christian as well as in the natural life. What a privilege, to be unifed in the bonds of the sure, well ordered, everlasting covenant of grace ! What a blessing and happiness, to be prepared to dwell together as joint heirs of the grace of life, as mutual helpers of each other's faith and joy on earlh, in the way to glory and felicity, complete and everlasting in the kingdom of heaven ! May the 'Lord establish his covenant with you both, and build you up a sure house, and be indeed a God to you and your seed after you ; and more and more bless you both, together with the dear children which he has graciously given you and spared to you, and make you all blessings indeed to each other, for time and eternity ! Have you now at length sought the kingdom of God and his righteousness, in preference to all other things ? May you not then hope, and with confidence believe, that all other things, needful and good for you, shall be added to you ? And if it would be best for you, the Lord you know, could easily bless your latter end, as he did that of Job, more than your beginning, with worldly good and crea- ture comforts ! But in bestowing on you his grace, he gives you the best blessings of his favour ; and his grace will most effectually teach you to be content wilh such things as you have of a worldly nature. I cannot but cherish the pleasing hope, that in due time, the way may be opened for your return to Charles- LETTERS* 447 (on, where your situation may be more pleasant, and the sphere of your usefulness be much more enlarged, than it probably is at present. But your times and mine are in the Lord's hands. May he prepare us for all his appointments, and dispose and enable us to say, in all circumstances, the will of the Lord be done ! You have probably seen in the newspapers, the ad- vertisement respecting the design of forming a Bible So- ciety in this city. A meeting, in consequence, took place this day, at 1 o'clock P. M. in the Hall of the South Carolina Society, on Meeting-street, when and where were present, about sixty I believe, of the friends to this design ; and among these were several of our leading, influential characters, judges, lawyers, physi- cians, merchants, planters, &;c. &c. Mr. Thomas Lowndes was called to the chair, and Mr. William H. Gibbes was the secretary, at this meeting. It was unanimously agreed, that a Bible Society should be es- tablished in this city, and that the persons present would, with others that may come into the measure, be members of it. A committee of seven was appointed to draught a constitution for the socioty, and to lay it before another meeting of the citizens, to be holden on Monday next. Thus far appearances are promising, in favour of this most charitable and important undertak- ing ; and it is hoped, that the smiles and the blessing of heaven, will crown it with success, and make the insti- tution a source of rich, of everlasting blessings to many, who, through the scriptures distributed by this charity, may be made wise unto salvation, through faith in our divine Redeemer. What can you, and your friends around you, do to help us, in doing the greatest good that we can do to our fellow mortals, by giving to 448 LETTERS. those who want, and who would improve, that inesti- mably precious Book which contains the words of eter- nal life, and which alone shews to fallen, ruined, perish- ing men, the way of salvation ? From the length of this, you will readily perceive,, that I do not calculate writing often to you. But be as- sured, that your communications to me, and the more frequent and particular they may be, the better, will al- ways be highly acceptable to me. In very affectionate regards and best wishes, to Mrs. S. and yourself, Mrs. K. cordially unites, with your isincere friend, ISAAC S. KEITH. FINIS. 'i " ' Kir #-