8C4*J ■r— am INTRODUCTION. IT is nntural for men when seeking; otlice, or when ])uhlishinly the table tor a long time. I was delighted in those (lavs with almost e\c-r\thing J saw and beard and bad but tew sad hours. 1 was blessed with a cheerful dispo- sition and inclined to look on the bright sick- ol things and it remains with me until this day. I took great delight in \isiting the sugar camp 8 AUTOniOORAPHY OF ELDER JOHN ELLIS. in the spring and tlie hay held in the summer, and the snow and ice brought much pleasure during the winter. In the autumn I was busy gathering nuts, especially the beech nut, whicli was found in great abundance. I enjoyed the birds in sinnnier much and never killed one in mv life. I early obtained a pocket knife and commenced whittling my way through this world. I do not know that I possess much mechanical skill, but 1 made almost everything I saw, and even made a '' perpetual motion," all but the motion. It was as good as any one has since made or probably ever will, for thus far they have been perpetual faihires. WHISKY, BEER, CIDER AND TOBACCO. It was fashionable in my earlier life for everybody nearly to use these drinks and chew and smoke tobacco, but I was a little eccentric, naturally, and took pride in being so, therefore I rejected all of these things, so mv eccentricities did me that much good. At one time I thought that tobacco might assist in making a man of me, but upon due reflection I could see nothing \n it manly, so I gave it a wide berth. I then formed the determination that instead of paying out money for this expensive and injurious weed, I would spend it for books and soon had quite a library. I signed the first temperance pledge I came to and have signed every one oiYered to me since, not only for my own good, but throwing my in- iluence on the right side. I am, and always have been, a straight out and out temperance man, and if vou call talking, singing, praying and voting for the prohibition of saloons in our fair hind, makes a crank, I am one, but I call it the dictates of good, sober sense, and where every Christian should stand. If I am a crank the angel seen by the Revelator was one, for John saw him coming down from Heaven with a great chain in liis hand, and saw him lay hold of tiieold serpent — the de\'il — and bind him with the chain and cast him into tlie l)ottomless pit to remain at least a thousand years. vSo after trying prohibition for that length ol time, if it does not work well, w^e will try some other plan. 1 am, and have been all my life, opposed to high license, low license or free whisky. OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL. Our neighbors, at least the most enlightened ones, thought best to organize a Sunday school in our rural neighborhood, but some opposed AUTORIOGKAPHV OF ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 9 it. One man thou'h to choose for themseKes. One preacher said he'd rather his'children would ^o a lishino- than to Sunday school- anil they showed this t(.'achino-, tor a worse set of boys were not to be lound in all the neiu,"hb()rhood. One younjj^ lad when asked to er from Cortlanil village took charge of our class one Lord's Day. Our lesson thai day was on John the Baptist, so in asking us (piestions on the lesson he asked how old he was when lie began to talk. No child in the class coidd answer the (juestion, which seemed to astonisli tlie legal gentleman. Then he told us he was just eight tlays old. Then in turn we \vere very much astonished, for we had never heard of a haby (piite so smart as that, and I thiids. he saw me shaking my head, for he looked at me, saying : " John, don't you l)elieve it?" I answxM-ed rather bashfully that 1 had never heard of a babv talking at eight days old. At this he replied and (jiu)ted the text in regard to the tongue Ijeing loosed and he began to talk and praise the Lord. 1 told him 1 understood it to refer to John's father, who had l)een dumb ever since he doubted the annoimcement of the angel. After stopping and re-reading ami thinking awhile, he said: 'AWdl. child, you are right and I was wrong, for 1 see that it was the tongue of Zachariah, his father, instead of the young child. "" 1 left the school in ecstacies that day under the impression that I had whipped out a lawyer. INIY EARLY EDUCATION. My o]:)portunities for an education were quite limited, as my father Avas a poor man and I the eldest son, so I had to remain at home and work when I ought to have l)een in school, yet I went to school some un- til ele\en years of age, and suppose I learned as fast as most boys of my age. The old fashioned log .school house \\'\\\\ slab seats and oiled paper windows still linger in my memory as something sacred, and will, I pre- sume, iluring life. Hut I gradiuited at eleven years of age and have not attended school since, although I have gatliered cpiite a fund of knowl- edge during life that has enabletl me to do my life work better than I otherwise could have done. AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ELDEH JOfIN EI.LIS. II As to orthography, I never was a good speller, for there is no com- mon sense in spelling anywav. It is a gilt Mii' nature ami uuich uu)re by practice. 1 could see thv practice ])art without glasses, but how one could be a sin- ner by nature, as sin is an act of disobedience, 1 could not see. As sin is doing wrong on our part, it follows as clear as a demonstration in Euclid that we cannot be sinners by nature. .Vlso \ye were told that l6 AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ELDICU JOHN ELLIS. Adam's sin was imputed to us. This must i)e a false charge. To im- pute is to charge, and to charge me with the sin of some one else is a false charge, and hence imputed sin is imputed nonsense, and an abso- lute impossibility. The same may be said of imputed righteousness. We were told that Christ's righteousness was imputed to His saints, but John says : "He that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as Cjod is righteous." This settles this matter, and teaches that every one must be righteous for himself, and not trust to the righteous doing of somebody else. We were told that children were lost except the elect. Just how the merits of Christ could be applied to children, in infancy, nobody knows or ever will know. Christ says : " Except ye become as little children ye can- not enter into His kingdom." The theologv of the Bible is what 1 like, and wish no other. So when //^/5 people came along calling themselves Christians, just simply Christians, it is not wonderful that I united with them. They took the Bible for their guide or creed and told us it was an all-sutlicient rule of faith and practice. I said to them as Ruth said to Naomi : " Your people shall be my people, your God shall be my God, where you live I wish to live, and where you die I wish to die, and there be buried," and I have never regretted the choice I tlien made. They let every one read the Bible for themselves, and Christian character was the test of fellowship — the union of all Christians, for on the Bible all can unite — God is our Father and we are all brethren. 1 took an active part in social meetings, but never thought of becoming a minister. And yet, in the course of a year, I commenced holding meetings in by-places where the people were destitute of religious privileges. I met with some opposition from those who professed to belong to' Christ, but 1 went right along and the Lord was with me, and I think I did some good. AUTOBIO(,K.\I'IIV OF ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 17 CHAPTER in. DEDICA I'lOX TO THE MINISTRY. During llic two years of my early life I did not eonsider myself a iiiiniNter. but xyorked at my trade and held meetin//■/ ou. He said he might have passed a counterfeit bill, in his ignorance, but felt sure he would get clear when the trial came off. But he did not, but had to spend three years in State's prison for his tricky crime. He and all others have to learn that the way of the trans- gressor is hard — and that, all through life, " Honesty is the best and surest policy." AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ELDER JOIIX ELLIS. 19 CHAPTER IV. LEAVING HOME AND STARTING OUT IN THE FIELD. The day I united with the conference, mentioned before, was the 36th of AuLfust, 1S3 :^, tlie day I was twenty-one years of age. In October, of the same year, 1 laid mv hammer on the anvil, closed up my work in the shop, bade farewell to friends and home, and started for the State of Pennsylvania. I had a horse, saildle and bridle, two chan^^es of linen, a decent suit of clothes, a ne\v overcoat, boots and socks, etc., and three dollars and a half in money. 1 also had a (rood constitution, and a heart full of faith and i^ood nature. With this outfit, I started off" to spend my whole time and energies in the Master's vineyard, thinking that when my clothes needed repairs that I would stop awhile, get others, and then go on, but I have never stopped vet. The first day I went as far as Blodgets Mills, twelve miles, ami preached there the next day. On Monday, I started on my way. and stopped over night with Elder William Cum- mings, near Binghamton, and spoke in the evening to a few of the peo- ple wdio came in. At the close of my talk his little daughter took a saucer and got a collection for me of one dollar and sixty-two cents. Tuesday morning I started on my journey and reached what was then called Slocum Hollow, and i/ozc is the city of vScranton. vStaid there ()\er the Lord's day, and heard a man by the name of Phillips preach a peculiar sermon on the good Samaritan. I could not see the subject in the light he did; and as I was asked to speak, L told them all of it. The brother did not like it ^ery well, but the congregation seemed inclined to see things more as I did. Erom there I went to Plymouth, Huntsville, vSalem, Berwick, Eishing Creek, vStillwater, Benton, Greenwood, Lime- stone, Muncie, Loval Lock, Troy, Williamsport, Tvcvel Corners, Canton, East vSmithfield. and manv other places, haxing good meetings in every l^lace. organizing churches all through the land. At .Stillw^ater, I found four families bv the name of McIIenrv, who were Scotch Presbyterians, who, on hearing the gospel preached in its purity and untrammeled l)y 2^ AUTOBIOGKAPHY OF ELDER JOHN ELLIS. the creeds of men, joined the Christian Church. And, at this writing, over fifty years afterward, they have increased to twenty-seven families, all well off, and nearly all members of the Christian Church. I preached, for awhile, at Greenwood, and had manv interesting meetings. While preaching there, the Methodists liad a ciuarterly meeting, three miles away, so 1 took up mv meeting and we all started to the meeting, but when I got there the doors were closed against me, and when urged to be let in, they said they had rules, and they must obey them. Seeing the situation, I went out and sat under a tree, and commenced reading in my Testament. While thus engaged, the birds were singing overhead, and I took out my pencil, and wrote the little poem about being shut out of T^ove Feast, which will be found among mv songs. Am glad to sav that the old custom of keeping closed doors for that meeting was done away with. " The world do move " — and I am glad to note the signs of prog- ress in our religious neighbors. A " FOOL " TEAM. Shortly after commencing work in that part of the State, two other young speakers joined me in proclaiming the gospel of Christ to a dying world — namely, J. J. Harvey and John Sutton, who aided me much in my work. We enjoyed manv meetings together, and saw many turn to Christ, and seek salvation. vSometimes we went each in different ways, and preached in barns, school-houses, orchards and sometimes in the open streets, and sometimes some liberal neighbor would let us into their churches, but in those days there was bitter persecution, for fear something would be preached not strictly " orthodox." We were doing a good work, and why they should call us heretics I could not tell — un- less it was because we preached more truth than was found in thc'w creeds — and souls were being saved all along. We found hosts of friends among those not wed to creeds, who received us into their houses and treated us kindl}'. The burden of our preaching was Jesus and Him crucified — one God, one Christ, the Son of God, one Holy Spirit, one creed (the Bible), one faith, one hope, one baptism, one body or church, and all should unite and work together, taking the one name C/irisiiaii. We also taught that all had the right of private judgment in matters of faith and conscience — that no one had a right to lord it over God's heritage, for each one was responsible to God for himself and nobody else. This Airc^iioci: AiMr-s' of rlpki; joirx i:;.i,is. 21 took with tlu' pc()[)lr. ;iiul o-i\m1 luiiiihtTs ilockcd to t his stniuliii-cl of i-hinvh lil)ertv. Many churches whtc or^-anizcd, aiul ha [)t i/.iIl^■ scasoii-i were fre- (|ueiit. We had notices of our work, ami one of tliest' was a littk' annis- in^-. One j^ood hrotlier said he was pk'ased with our preacliin(r - that l'>Kk'r 1 [ar\ev was an elo([Uent man.antl Sutton a i;;oo(l earnest talker, antl ni\' sin^-in^" ct)ulil not he l)eaten — so we three niatle a " fool team," which he meant for lull lean/. I told the hoys, Ilarxev and Sutton, that likel\- thev were flu' team ami 1 was the " fool "" part. Takino- the l>il)le tOr our rule ol lile, ol course w c used l)il)le lani^'uatj^e in express- ing; our \iews. and this took w ith the common people, for thes' could ini- dcrstand us. Notwithstandin<4 so many received us gladly, \t't some people were afraid i.^^ us. \\'e tell at liherty to wx)rship witli all t^ood people, and made ourselves at home wherever they would hid us welcome. I preached much in Lew ishurt;-, and also spent one year or more in East .SmilhlieUl, where 1 fathered about one hundretl into the fold of Christ, in tlie name of the Lord. Time passed on in this tield of lal)or, until about ii\e years had elapsed since I lett my home. It is not my intention now to give a connectetl history ot my lite work, I'rom that time imtil the jiresent, for it would m ike this little n irratiw teilious, hut simply to ui\f ;i lew sketches of m\ life as 1 u,'o alon<4-. .Sixt\- \ears in the minis- tr\ ha\e too many incidents to be all written for this work, so I shall leave many unwritten. TiiK \yirrrE pilgrim. In tlie fall of i^i^S, niy sister Lucy, oliler than myself, ami I took a journey into New ^'ork State and \ew Jersey, and at this lime I stood at the fre'sh-maile L;ra\ e of Joseph Thomas (While Lili^rim). who hail died of smallpox in Johnsonburo', New Jerse\'. This is the Ir/rl//, in re- the real author was. ()nce while comin*^ down the lake's, on a steamer witli my wife and children, and an old lady was in our ]iarly, who knew that I was the author, we met a gentleman, who was singing this song, and he told my wife that 23 AUTOBIOGRAPHY OK ELDER JOHN ELLIS. it was an Indian missionary who wrote it. My wife told him that she had seen the man who wrote it, Init he was not an Indian, but looked some like one. The man was deiiu'liteil to see a person who liad seen the man who wrote it. This was more tliat mother Tidd (the old ladv spoken of before) could stand, so she, pointing to me, said, "There sits the man who wrote it.'' This created more and more of a surprise, for sitting on the other side of the cabin was a line appearing lady, who spoke up with much assurance that she could not be correct, for her father had told her that it was a young man of the Christians who wrote it. Then it was time for me to say something, so I asked her what her father's name was, and she said " Elder John Case.'' ^Vell, I said, "You are correct, for your father gave me the right hand of fellowship when I was admitted into mv first conference." This made us feel at home with tliis daughter of Elder Case. So I could mention many more cases, some wliere it lias been piUjlished and a name attached as its author. But enough of this. The poem will be found in this little l)()ok among other songs. In this journe\-. ^^ hen 1 wrote the White I'ilgrim, 1 attended a general meeting in Laurens, New York, where I first met Miss Caroline Downing, who two years afterwards became my wife. On leaving this meeting, I left an appointment to come l>ack and hold a New Year's meeting with them. After iiolding meetings in se\'eral places, I went back to finish up my work in Peinisvlvania, my first field of labor. autoi5TO(;k Ai'in oi-" eloek John iu.lis. 33 CHAPTER V. Ilavintr closeil up iiiv labors in Pennsylvania, when the new year ol" 1839 canu' rouiul it t'ound nu- at Laurens ready lor the nieetinjj;- I had promised to giye them. After this meetinu;, I was ens^nu-cd to preacii for them that year, and so contituieil from year to year, until 1 had been there four years. The third year 1 was married to Caroline Downing, of Columbus, Chenango county, New York, who was teaching school at the time, but in the spring, after school was out, we commencetl our home-life, which has continued (with many interruptions by my absence from home, and the death angel has visited us four times) until we have celebrated our golden wedding. During my stay in Laurens, in the late autumn of '41, Elder Teal, who had been out on a missionary tour, with- out much success, was on his way home in the east, but felt that he could not bear to go on home without seeing sinners Hocking to Christ, came here and wished to hold a meeting. It was yery muddy, and roads in a terrible condition, and the church did not want the meeting, neither did 1. All of us together had not as much faith as one Christian ought to haye. But his great desire and perseverance won the day, and he com- menced the meeting, and the Lord blessed his labors in a wonderful manner. Seventy souls started in a new life, and 1 had the joy of leading many of them into the water, and burying them, in likeness of our Master as He lay in His grave. This circumstance proves that Chris- tians should be guided measurably by the vSpirit of (Jod in their work. MV OWN FAMILY. Mrs. C. D. Ellis, the companion of my life, is a woman of superior abilities, naturally and peculiarly fjualitied in many respects to be the wife of a minister — tall and graceful in form, benexolent in disposition, pli'asant in manner, deeply pious and very conscientious. Is ardent in her temperament, possessing so much enterprise and activity that she is often found among radicals. Her education is better than mine, so she has been of great service to me through life. .She possesses rare talent for public speaking, and would ha\e made a first class lecturer or preacher had she applied herself to it when young; as it is, she gives a 24 AUTORIOGRAPHY OF ELDER JOHN EI.LIS. good lecture on temperance, and the science of health — having a good, legally signed diploma from the Medical College at Florence, New Jersey. vSince her graduation, she has practiced in Mattoon, Illinois; Towanda and Topeka, Kansas, also Shelbvxille, Illinois, and lastly in Yellow Springs, Ohio, where she lived when she received an injury to her spine, and later still, another injury on the cars, which have crippled her for life and changed her form and appearance very much, thus mak- ing it necessary for her to gi\'e up lier practice ; since \vhich tinie she has been much in the lecture field. vShe has tra\eled and lectureil \\ ith Dr. Kellogg's charts from the Atlantic to the Pacitic coast twice, and exhibited them to many thousand children besides adults. OUR CHILDREN. Of the six children given us, three of them we laitl away in the dreamless sleep of the graye, in babyhood, and returned to our home in sadness. Our two oldest children were boys — Charles R. and JMarshall D. Ellis - and just two years and one month between their births. They were as unlike as two brothers ever need be, and yet b(,)th of them possessed real good qualities of heart and life. Charles was of a lymphatic temperament, while Marshall was of a very nervous temperament, owing in some measure to ha\ing been sick through most of his childhood, which' made a great difference in what they said and did in life. Charles went into the army at eigiiteen, and Marshall at sixteen, when they both ought to have been in sciiool ; so, really, they did not luive a fair start in life. Charles was \ery serious in early life, and had we encouraged him as we ought to ha\e done, woulil have then gi\en himself to Christ. While in the army he professed Christ, and was baptized and joined the I'ji'ion Church they had in the army — then sent his card of membership to his mother at Yellow vSprings, to have it put into the church there, with his mothur and sister. Marshall passed on with many serious feelings, until two years after the war was over, and while 1 was preaching at Winter- set, Iowa, came there to yisit me, and while there professed faith in Christ and was baptized. While Charles was li\ing with his family near Enon, and going there to clunxh, he was elected deacon of that church, but (jn remoxingto Yellow Springs, he again united with this church ami was a meml)er in good standing, w hen he was s/n/tlei/Iy called to join the church triumphant, April 29, iSSo. Our last chikl, Alary, was dif- ferent from both her brothers, yet possessing some traits of them bot// as AU'^ol?I()(;KAlMl^• ok elder joirx et.t.ts. 25 well as of both Iut iiaa-nts. Wvv three sisters haxiny; died, and her brotliers l)ein!4' older, this iiiatle her a oreal />r7 with us. ."-^he was thouo-litiul and ([uile reliu;ious early in lite : and when nine \ ear^ of age was baptised l)y Elder X. Sinnnierl)ell. in tiie Wabash river, at Merom, Indiana, at her own re(|Uest. She anil her mother were attending; tlie dedication of I'nion Christian Coileii^e — and, before goin^r, slie had asked niv consent to have " Tncle vSinnnierl)ell, " as she called him, baptize her — and of course I ua\e my consent for her to do so. After leaxino- Laurens we spent two years in IMainiield, in the north- ern part of ()tseo() eount\ , tluring' which time our lirst child came to us — our dear Charlev, w ho passed away from us, and his own family, sev- eral years ao'o. We spent two years with this |)eople, having meeting .Saturday and Sundav alike. About half of this churcb kept .Saturday as ,Sabl)ath and the other half ke[it Suntlay, therefore we had meetings both da vs. In the spring of 1S45 1 moved my iamily to western New York, and settled witli the old I>arre churcii. Here our second child was born, a son, M. I). Ellis, w ho is still li\ing. After spending two vears and a half with this jieople, 1 moved to Illinois, and from there to Port Washington, Wisconsin, and while liere our iirst daugliter was born, and about this time the l>arre church sent me moneys to come back and take charge of their church again, so when this little babe was four weeks old w^e retraced our steps over the same lakes that we had passed o\er the fall before, from BuHalo to Chicago, and moved into the same jiarsonage we hail left. Here death came to our household for the lirst time, and our little Harriet Amelia left us in sorrow. In the spring of 1S49 wemoxedto Castile, \\' voming count\ , and left that little grave alone. Here the Lord blessed mv labors and 1 baptized fortv or fifty converts. Plere our home was cheered by having twin daughters to take the place of our lost one, but they both soon left us, and we laid their Ijodies by the side of our Harriet Amelia, although lifty miles away, so Adelaide and Adeline sleep near tlieir sister, side by side. ANOTTIKH MOV'E, While li\ing in Castile 1 visited Ohio and held some meetings, atul tinally I returned home and decideil to mo\e. So in the spring of iS^j we moved to I'2noii, Clark count\ , ()hio. The lirst two years we li\ed here we saw scores start in a religious lite, and 1 l)aptized mans in Mad River near by. Here, also, our last child was born, " Little Mary," as 26 AUTOP.IOGKAPHY OF ELDER JOHN RLLIS. she was called by many. We moved from there to Concord, Preble county, Ohio, and from there to Dayton, Ohio, where we edited and published the Gospel Herald, which for years has been combined with the Herald of Gospel Lihertw the oldest religious paper in the world. After four years' labor in this office, with the best work of my life and my wife, too, -we moved back to Preble county, only for a year or two. for our boys were both in the arm}-, and Alary needed an education, and. as 1 was traveling nuich of my time, holding meetings here and there, my wife thought best to move to Yellow Springs and put Mary into the primary class of Antioch College. Although 1 ha\e labored in Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Texas, Indian Territory, Colorado and California, I have always felt that Ohio was my home, and where we live at this ^vriting, Yellow vSprings, is where we celebrated our golden wedding in 1891 . About thirty-five vears I labored faithfully with the Christians — the people of my early cht)ice. About the last years of the sixties I went to Kansas, and finding more Disciple churches than I did of the Christians, I thought I could do more good with them, and James F. Sloan took me into that body at Leavenworth. Although changing my church relations I have not changed my views, for these two denominations are so near alike that I did not need to. I have thought for years they ought to be one people. They both take the Iiible for their onlv creed and both preach up Christian union, so I naturally thought then, and do now, that they ought to be o//e people. They both baptize by immersion, but the Disciples do not admit of members into their church without it, while the Christians take them in on their Christian character, if they do not believe in the ordinance at all. Or if they have been sprinkled and it satisfies their conscience, they take such into their full fellowship, but the Disciples do not, this being the only difference between the two denominations. While in Kansas I preached in Towanda, Eldorado, Eureka, Wich- ita, Emporia, Topeka, Parsons, Fort Scott, and many other places. From Kansas I took a trip down into Texas and the Indian Territory and com- menced preaching in .Sherman, and saw the church built up and many souls brought into the church in many towns in Texas. This seemed rather remarkable, for it was soon after the close of the \var, and I, from the North, of course was a Union man. They would sometimes say to AUTOBiocH Ann- of elder joriN ellts. 37 me : " We are all Rebs. tlown Iutc, hut we are ,i!,"la(l to see you ; jj;"() ahead, ind we will help vou all we can/' 1 liked the Lone Star State veiy much, its climate, sprin^-s of water and its kind-hearted people. :n[v ^rTssI(>x amoxc tiik ixofaxs. While preachinL!," in 'I'e.xas, I felt a desire to s^o o\er amonrolher vStorms, what charges will you bring against him.? If you charge him with going into the saloon and drinking whisky, botii of these will stand good against yourself, for I have seen you go in these saloons." At these remarks he looked about half mad, and half mortified and pi-rjilexed, not knowing what to do in this case. lie was a good man and meant to be a Chris- tian, but had been under the liquor influence so long, and was opposed to " sumptuarv laws." But linally I said to him that he had better turn over the young man to me. and I would straighten him up if I could, and he did so. The next morning I called on the young man, and found him all broke down, mortihed and very penitent — willing to do anything in reason to right this wrong. "Now," he said, "Brother Ellis, draw up a plcdi^c o^ total abstinence, making it just as strong as you possibly can, and Iwill sign it, and I will stick to it too ; for I am determined that I will never touch another drop of the accursed stuff as long as I live." So I drew up a pledge in the usual form, and he signed it with great earnest- ness. And during my knowledge of him he remained true to his pledge. In that place I have seen ministers sitting in the saloons laughing and talking if not drinking, so what could we expect of young men who are not pledged against this curse. We should come out and be separate as the Lord has told us, and shun the very appearance of evil, for it looks suspicious to see men even sitting in these places. During my labors with Brother Douthitt, and in that part of Illinois, over one hundred and lift}', mostly young persons, were brought into the fold of Christ. We let our theology take care of itself. If I had stronger faith in the miracles, he had full as strong or stronger conlidence in the power of the gospel. Neither of us could fellowship the ungodly, so both of us labored to promote genuine revivals, saying to all, "Re- pent and be converted that your sins may be blotted out." Alter leaving 32 AUTOBIOGRAPHY OP' ELDER JOHN ELLIS. Illinois, I have spent several months at different times in Pennsylvania, in and around v\ here n^y Jirs/ tield of labor was as a minister. I also have preached in twenty-four states of the Union more or less, besides the Indian Territory and Canada. I feel thankful to A]mi»^htv (rod that in lookinjj^ it all over at the aa^c of ei<»'hty years I can truly say the Lord has been with me, and I feel that my labors have not been in vain, in the Lord. And I hope to have the unspeakable pleasure, to say with Paul, when mv days are about to end on earth, "1 am ready to be offered — the time of my departinv is at hand.'' 1 have foujj^ht the " other de- nominations. It is said tliat all men who lia\e made their mark in the world have hatl sonu-thinii; lo do with tlie press, tliat miut the mantle of Elijah seemed to fall upon me .instead of Elisha at this time, and I was numbered among the prophets. After permission had been given me, I spoke frc:" these words, "We are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens of the household of faith." My testi- mony was well received 1 think, making good impression upon all pres- ent, especially upon the younger people, while many, both male and female, sauctioiicd what the stranger friend had said. After this, one of the rulers of the meeting arose and said the hour for business had ar- rived. Knowing that the uncircumcised Gentiles were not permitted to remain in their business meeting, I took my hat with a view of leaving, but a venerable friend Siro?,ii and said " that he had been refreshed in the spiritual man by the testimony of the stranger within their gates, and that his spirit was in unison with ////;/ and if the meeting was in unison AUTOBIOGKAPIIV OF ELDER JOIIX ELLIS. 43 with his spirit he wcnild invite the stranger to remain. Upon this remark, some fifteen or twenty arose and said, one after another, tliat their spirit was in unison with his spirit, so 1 was duly notified that 1 was free to re- main. I accepted the invitation and remained. This was their monthly meeting, before the last (juarterly meeting of the year, antl hence the busi- ness was a kind of retrospect and summing up of the year. Two clerks officiated, one asking the printed (piestions of the disci f>/ii/c in relation to the moral, religious and financial condition of the four societies be- longing to this quarterly meeting, and the other reading the answers which had been already made out and written for the occasion. The questions and answers were, as near as I can remember, as follows : J^ii-sf. Do all the friends belonging to this meeting pay their debts punctually.' It was answered that they did. Scco/id. Are any or the members, young or old, needing aid? It was answered that there was not one so poor as to need aid. Here some pertinent remarks were made, showing what reasons for thankfulness to the giver of all good for his goodness, which endureth forever, 71iird. Have any over-reached in business and become so embar- rased that they cannot pay their debts? It was answered. No. Here a warm exhortation in urging all to be careful on this point and not to get too worldly-minded, lest they should be overwhelmed by the cares ot this life and finally be lost. Fourth. Have any used or sold intoxicating drinks during the year? Two members had. A connnittee was then appointed to visit the oftend- ers and win them back to virtue and goodness, if they could. Fifth. Has each f-mily been supplied with a copy of the liible, and is it read in connection with family worship? All had been sup- plied and nearly all read it. Sixth. Is tobacco used by the members of these societies? About half of them, it ^was found, used the filthy weed. Here a plain, kind speech came in, showing the fi/thii/css and needless expensiveness ot the use of tobacco in all of its forms. I wish all Christians could have heard that speech, for it was right at point. Seventh. Have proper ctTorts been made in the week day and Sun- day schools for the education of our ciiildren ? It was answered aifirma- tivelv. 44 AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ELDER JOHN ELLIS. Eighth. Has sufficient testimony been borne during the past year against hireling priests? This \vas answered affirmatively. Thus the questions and answers ended, all passing off in a quiet manner, leaving a good impression on all present. When hireling priests were spoken of I smiled, not out of derision, but to think that a people who are so kind, and even progressive, hive not made the least advance on that point for two hundred years. It seemed strange to see people who use good sense about most things should be concerned about ministers' salaries, when they get barely enough to keep soul and body together. It was all riglit in the da^-s of (jeorge Fox, the founder of the society of Fi-iends, for the English clergy were paid enormous salaries or " livings " provided for them bv law. But at this time, and in America, it is unnecessary and useless. But, upon the whole, I enjoyed the meet- ing verv much and was truly glad to ffnd the spirit of religious progress among that people, and hope they will continue to advance until they attain to the highest state of perfection. After bidding them farewell I resumed mv joiu'ney and went on mv way I'ejoicing. ONE WEEK OF MISSIONARY WORK. I have often thought if the benevolent friends, who give their money to send us poor wanderers out into the wide \vorld as " heralds of the cross," could see two things : First, ho\v cheerfully many who are tired of dead forms and creeds receive our kind and liberal teachings ; and, second, the hard toil and wearisome labor we go through, together with the privations we often endure. 1 think it would induce them to give more liberally and cheerfullv than they do. I would like to see our farmers and business men, who enjoy the comforts of life and many of its luxuries too, with the endearments of family and friends, go through for one month just what we pass through, simply to give them an insight into the light and shadows of missionary life. For the benefit of all whom it may concern I will give one week's experience in my work here in the West. Preached three times on Lord's day and gave a lecture to the Sunday school, and with a nervous headache went, supperless, to bed. Monday walked eight miles through a delightful country, until I reached a stream called Lye Creek, and find- ing the bridge swept away I waded the stream and reached the opposite shore in safetv. T then walked a distance of five miles and came to AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ELDER JOHX ELEIS. 45 Sugar River, and findino- no bridge there I plunged in as before, with a view of crossing ; but after stemming the rapid current for awhile and tinding it deeper and swifter than I expected, my courage began to fail me and I felt, I suppose, a little as Peter did while attempting to walk on Gallilee. But thinking it was no time to look back, and remember- ing that I had an appointment ahead and no other way to reach it, and that I often put people into the water all over, I plucked up courage and went forward, coming out all right on the other side, although the stream at this place was about two hundred yards wide and some of the way three feet deep. I enjoyed a good visit and religious meeting that even- ing and felt amply repaid for the toils of the past day. Tuesday walked eight miles, made four visits, preached to a full house in the evening and received three into the church. Wednesday met a bigoted sectarian, who sent myself and several denominations to hell, but I did not go, but walked six miles in the opposite direction and had a blessed meeting at night. Thursdav only walked five miles and met with the Good Templars in the evening and gave them two songs and a short lecture or speech. Friday, visited and read in the morning and prepared a lecture and gave it to a large congregation in the evening. vSaturday prepared two sermons for Sunday and spoke in the evening on Christian charity. Preached Lord's dav morning on the responsibility of parents to their children, and at night to the young people upon the necessity of form- ing good habits and beginning life right, and enjoyed a refreshing season from the Lord. Went to my lodgings with a thankful heart and at peace with God and all mankind, except traitors and rumsellers. Thus ended the week's labor, which, by the by, was nothing uncommon and not as fatiguing as some weeks I could mention. INFIDELITV, OR OLD GENERAL ClIADWICK. In the summer of 1850, as I was traveling on foot in the state of Michigan, I stopped at a grocery in the, then, new village of Van Buren, to rest ni}' weary limbs, and while there 1 encountered an old gentleman bv the name of Chadwick, whom I found to be a pro-slavery Democrat and a rough swearing fellow. We had a warm controversy for an hour or more, when finally he said, ''The Bible sanctioned human slavery." In reply, I asked him for a text of .Scripture in its favor. I told him that I did not know of any, unless it should be the golden rule. "All things 4^ AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF ELDER JOHN ELLIS. whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even the same unto them." But he was sharp enough to see the //// and felt it too, and answered, "That is not it, but c//sscd be, what do you call his nanie." (), I said, I know who you mean — cursed be copperheads. l)Ut upon this he partly laughed, and partly swore, and I turned away and left him and proceeded on my journey. But I had not proceeded far before I saw him following after me with a two horse wagon, so I stepped aside and said to him when he came up, "Well, old man, you and I have had a glorious political quarrel back there, now suppose you let me ride." "Ride, yes in welcome," and stopped his team to let me get in. lie soon informed nie that he \vas skeptical and yet was not a confirmed infidel, and hoped that Christianity might be true. 1 soon found that his objections, like most of that class, were not so much against Chris- tianity proper as against the irritational doctrines and human dogmas of fallible men. He, like many others, had paid but little attention to the doctrines and practice of Christianity as taught in the New Testa- ment, and hence was a poor judge of its merits or demerits. He spoke with great earnestness, and often mixed vulgar and profane language while speaking of the most solemn and tender things. After learning that I was a minister, he seemed to trv and leave off his profanity, but found it a difficult task to break ofT from this verv bad habit. In the course of our conversation, he told me that he lived down toward the lake —had a large tract of land, a saw mill, and had a good many men and their families working for him, and wanted me to go home with him, and become a settled preacher among them. And as an induce- ment, he said he would give me eightv acres of land, and put up a pretty cottage home for us to live in. I told him that was a verv generous offer indeed ; but I said, "Why do you want to hire a man to come and preach that to you and your folks, which vou ca'^ !' dse — a cunninglv devised fable." "Ah," said he, "there is the rub, I mov be wrong, and the Bible may be true, and if it is true what a glorious truth it is, and I ought to know it. I am not satisfied with mv faith and religious sur- roundings, and I tell you franklv that I do not want mv children brought up in heathenism. Mv wife is a Christian and a good woman too, and I much rather mv children would be educated in her faith than in mine, if I have any faith, but I have Jioiic, for skepticism is nothing but unbe- lief — it is a negation, a cypher, a blank, and often a great deal worse AUTOBIOGKAPIIV OK ELDER JOHN EI.I.IS. 47 than nothinir. 1 wish 1 was soiiiethini^ — wish I liad faith — wish I was a Christian." So, after ^oin fanatics may not ruin the day." THE SEOoxn pakt. "And, yet, on reflection and having more liglit, I half way believe tlie fanatics are right ; That my business is sinful and leading astray, And onglit to be swept entirely away. "For I've seen its effects on the old and the young, liike a blighting scourge with its venomous tongue, As it spared neither aged, cliildhood, or youth. And trampled in dust all the lovers of truth. "I sometimes liave thoughtasi offered the glass To the giddy and thoughtless wlio before me did pass, I could see in the depths of its fountain l)el<)w The syrens that led to the vortex below. "The tears of the widow and orplian there roll As crushed were their hopes in the maddening bowl. And the husband and fatlier, once pure as the snow. By the use of strong drink was forever laid low. "The jail and the i)rison and the poor-house, I think. Appear to my vision as I offered them drink. And wailings came up from lost spirits below. And filled my sad lieart witli anguish and woe, BY KT.DKK JOHN KI.LIS. ^g "And so I've concluded to pom- out my ruin. Break all my bottles, and be a temperance man. So fetch on your pledges, prohibition and all, And I'll help you to roll on this tem|)eranee ball." On the Death of Sister Ella Stewart. Now go, dearest Ella, to the land of the blest Where apostles and prophets have gone, Thy spirit was weary, but now findeth rest, ■ With Jesus around the wliite throne. In the early sweet, spring time v\ liil(> the Mowers were gay. And nature looked lovely and fair, The angels were sent to call thee away To thy beautiful liome in tlie air. Thy soul early tasted tlie sweetest deligiit. Thy spirit was free from all gloom, The Hovvers of affection, unfading and bright, AVere filled w itli the sweetest perfume. But earth was too drear for lliy jtermantMit home. And Jesus has called tliee away To dwell with the angels around the brigiit throne, .'Vnd with them foi-ever to stay. Farewell, dearest Ella, we will not com])lain. Though tears of deep sympathy How ; The loss we all feel to thee is great gain, As we most assuredly know. Sunshine and Shade. ' Heat is mingled with our cold. Dross is mingled with oiu" gold, Day is mingled with our night, Wrong is mingled with oiii* riglit, Joy is mingled witli our i)ain, Loss is mingled with our gain, Hope is mingled with our ft>ars, Smiles are mingled with our tears Want is mingled witii our wealtli. Sickness mingled witli onr h(>:iith. 6o soxctS, hvmxs axd poems, Sin is mingled witli our good, Poison mingled with our food, Love is mingled with our hate. Small things mingled with the great. Thorns are mingled with our Howers, Sunshine mingled with our showers, Songs are mingled witli our sighs, Laughter mingled with our cries, AVar is mingled with our peace. Trouble mingled with our ease, Toil is mingled with our rest. Bad is mingled with the best, Sinners mingle wltli the saints, Praises mingle with complaints. My Mother in Heaven. My mother now has left the shore That is by sin uneven ; Her toils are past, her sufferings o'er, Afflicting scenes disturb no more, Methinks she's gone to heaven. Unfeeling death, that cruel foe. My heart with pain has riven ; He does not hear the orphan's woe. Nor can he see their tears which How, But mother lives in heaven. How oft, dear mother, you have mourned And labored for your children ; How much for them was you concerned, Lest we should never leave our sins, Or e'er prepare for lieaven. Now sleep, dear mother, in the tomb, I wish not to disturb thee ; I know thy toils are at an end. And trust in Christ you find a friend, AVho gives you rest in heaven. % BV ELDER JOHN ELLIS. Silver- Wedding of Elder B. F. Rapp. 6 1 I have no sliiniiig silver or ducats of i)recious gold. Nor brass witliin my coffers, as Peter said of old ; But what I iiave to offer will cheerfully be given In coin that may be current within the gates of lieaven. One ([uarter of a century with you has i)assed away, Since joined in matrimony on that eventful day, But still you are united in Hymen's sacred bonds, As closely, if not more so, as when pronounced but one. It has not been all sunshine through which you two have come, Nor has it been all shadow o'erwhelming you in gloom ; But mixed with shade and sunshine has thus far been your life. Since Letitia and H. F. were joined as man and wife. Have each of you been faithful and acted well your part, And been to each other helpful with kind and loving heart. And sought to lighten burdens that oti each other lay. And smooth the rugged places of life's uneven way? When one was sad and lonely and sinking in despair. Has the other been more cheerful and helped the load to bear? And when the heart's devotion of one has seemed to wane, Has the other sought to kindle a bright and heavenly llnme? "A word that's fitly spoken," said Solomon of old, "Is like pictures of silver in apples of fine gold." Kind words and kinder actions will tame the wildest heart. And to the wayward spirit the healing balm impart. When clouds of sullen darkness shall overcast your way. And fears that you in sadness may be a castaway, Then view the silver lining that shineth tlirougli the gloom, Just like the resurrection that dawns ujwn the tt)mb. And wiien the threads of silver may deck your aged brow. Be your frame bent with labor and vigor waning low, The silver cord be loosened, the cistern nearly dry. Lift up your heads rejoicing, redemption draw^eth nigh. Still blow the trump of silver and warn the world of sin. And gather up the lost ones, a bride for Jesus win, Go rescue men and women from rum's bewitching sjiell. And drive the li(iuor demon down to the lowest hell. 62 SOXdS. ll^MNS AND I'OEMS. Now, in the conclusion 1 bid you twain farewell, And pray that God's; pure spirit may always with you dwell ; Your life be tilled witli usefulness till evening time shall come And angels take your spirits to your immortal liome. Practical Thoughts For the Workers. Have you looked for my sheep in the desert. For those who have wandered away? Have you been in the wild waste places Where the lost and wandering stray? Have you trodden the loneliest highway, The alleys and the darkest of streets? It may be you would liear them bleating, Or see some of the prints of their feet. Have ever you folded to your bosom Some feeble and trembling poor lamb, And warmed into life when near frozen, As kindly good shepherds only can? Have you searched for tlie poor and the needy. With no clothing, no home, and no bread? For .Tesus was once surely like tliem, And had not whei-e to lay his liead. Have you carried the living waters, To the parclied and thirsty soul? Have you told to the sick and wounded, Christ Jesus now maketh thee whole? Have you told to my poor fainting children Of tlie strength of the dear Father's hand? Have you guided the' slow tottering footste|)S To the shores of that beautiful land? Have you stood by the sad and the weary To smooth the dark i)illow of death. And comfort the sorrow stricken. And strengthen their trembling faith? And have you not felt by tlie glory That streamed through that bright open door, And flitted so brightly before you, Tliat I had oft been there before? I5Y ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 63 Changing From Youth To Age. Days of my youth, ye ai-e gliding away, Tliouglits of my youth, ye liavo led me astray. Eyes of my youth, ye mucli evil liave seen, Cheeks of my youth, bathed in tears ye have been, Heart of my youtli, thou hast oft s\velh>d witli grief And sought in religion the balm of relief. Friends of my youth, whom I tenderly loved, Scenes of my youth where in cliildhood I roved. Birds of my youtli with plumage so gay, Joys of my youth, ye have llown far away, Fields of my youth where tlie wild cherry grew. Home of my youtli, I must bid you adieu. Groves of my youlii in whose cooling siiade On my low bended knees many vows I have made. Woods of my youth where the wild pigeons sing. Lanes of my youth where I've wandered in spring. Ye hedges and hawthorns and scenes wild and new^ And joys of my youth, I now bid you adieu. Days of my age. ye will siiortly be passed, Pains of my age, yet awhile can ye last. Eyes of my age, be religion your liglit, Joys of my age, in true wisdom delight. Thouglits of my age, dread ye not tlie cbld clod, Hopes of my age, be ye fixed upon (lod. Playing the Fool For Beer. I knew a meclianic, a blacksmith by trade. Whose honest industry was on the up-grade ; And, yet, with some others then liviTig quite near. Commenced tlie bad liaiiit '•plaiiinjj pool for atronr/ heer.'' His wife oft olijected to his staying so long And lioped he would quit it, the habit was wrong. But he carelessly told her, with a half suppressed sneer. "1 stopped but a moment to play pool for strong beer." 6a songs, hvmxs axd poems, He had a young daugliter, a bright little tiling, As sweet and as lovely as the birdies of s])ring, Who looked up and asked so kind and sincere, "How do you, dear papa, play fool for strong beer?" 'I did nor say fool," the father then said, "But pool, you dear creature," witli a shake of his head. Yet liis innocent daughter could never say pool, And in her sweet ])rattle would always say fool. One night he came home all discouraged in soul, The last dime was wasted in the deep flowing bowl, And gloomily said lie had nothing to do. Completely o'erwhelmed with sadness and woe. At this his dear daughter, beholding his woe, Came u]) tlien iiuiuiring, "Have you nothing to do? I am sure, my dear papa," she said with a tear, "You can yet go and ])lay fool for strong beer." "(), yes, little angel, that's just what I'm doing: I've acted the fool, it has led me to ruin, But from this time and onward, my sweet little dear, I'll never again play fool for strong beer." (3n Laying a Corner Stone. At Shelbyville. Illinois. In the name of our Father and Jesus His son. We lay in our Zion this chief corner-stone — An emblem of jiurity, kindness, and love, And trust it may lead to the mansions above. We build not this temple of worship below, To gratify pride, ambition, or show; But heeding the voice of humanity's call. We erect this chapel to benefit all. This house will be free as the air that we breathe, As free as the zephyr.- that float on the breeze. As free as the sunlight on a beautiful moi-n, Or the sparkling dew-drop on the low bending corn. No human inventions or dogmas of men Will here be presented for people to sign ; But the teachings of .Tesus, so simple and mild, Full of love and compassion and truth unbeguiled. 15V ELDER JOHN EI, LIS. 6:; These halls will be open to tlie lonely and sad. The weary flndi-est and the mourner made glad, The widow and orphan be healed of their grief, And penitent seekers find speedy relief. And all wlio are weary, heavy laden with sin. Are willing to be washed in the fount and be clean, And heed the instructions of Christ in His word. Will here find a welcome in the house of the Lord. The erring and sinful, however low down, Will here be assisted in tlieir struggles with sin- In the language of Jesus to the woman of yore, "I'll not condemn thee, don't sin any more." Little eliildren will meet here in long years to come, While we who are building shall sleep in the tomb ; To here say their lessons and joyfully sing. As sweet and as lovely as the songsters of spring. In the name of our Father we now lay this stone. And pray for His blessing through Jesus His son. And dedicate all through the spirit of grace To the cause of humanity, reformation, and. peace. Sacred to Harriet Amelia. When twilight dews were falling fast, O'er woodland and o'er sea, ^ly thoughts, dear loved one, often rest, With pure deliglit on thee. I see thee in the dew drop bright. In fading hues of even ; I see thee in the stars of night, The sparkling orbs of heaven. There's not a garden walk I tread, There's not a flower I see, • But brings to mind some liope that's tied. Some joy I've lost in thee ; We miss thee here in every spot. At morning, noon, and even. But, dearest one, we murmur not, We soon will meet in heaven. 66 SONGS. HYMNS AND POEMS, Thy parents oft with tears will stand, Beside thy grave an hour, Thy little brothers, hand in hand, AVill strew thy bed with flowers ; But thou wilt sleep so sweetly there, For that to thee is given ; 'Twere wrong to shed one mournful tear For such find rest in heaven. An Instructive Dream. I dreamed the county fair was in successful blast, Exhibiting the products of tlie present and the past. And aged sires and matrons, fair maidens and young men. Were there in magic numbers, according to my dream. The farmers brought their cattle, their horses and their sheep. Their mules, their swine, and poulti-y, their corn, their oats, and wheat- Mechanics hall was crowded with buggies, plows, and spades. With reapers, drills and harrows of every sort and grade. And floral hall was blooming with flowers and plants and fruit — Arranged with taste and beauty, the varied minds to suit. And patent right inventions to aid us in our toil. From coffee-mills and engines to electric light and oil. And needle work, ingenious, of every hue and sort. With rare and beauteous wax flowers and other curious arts, With bread and cakes and biscuit and honey in the comb, And jells and tarts and candies and butter from the churn. And while I saw the products of garden, field, and farm, Together with the treasures of factories, mills, and mines, I spoke to a rumseller that then was standing near, To know what he would offer to aid our county fair. He pointed me to widows and orphans full a score, Whom he had plundered often, then left them very poor — He also showed some specimens of his peculiar arts, Of blasted hopes and prospects and wounded, broken hearts — A lot of ruined young men and boys in saddest plight. All stained in blood and infamy, an awful sickening siglit, And convicts from the prisons and from the county jails Ciime looming up in sadness with most heart rending wails. nv ELDER JOHN EI.LIS. A score of raving maniacs, whose reason was detlu-oned, Api)eared upon the fair ground and raved and wept and moaned, AVith idiots and imbeciles and fallen women too, And thieves and drunken rowdies, a most debasing crew. The dire delirium tremens had seized one victim there, Who raved in maddened frenzy and tore his tangled hair, He cursed the world around him. he cursed his God beside, He cui'sed his wife and children, then cursed his soul and died. And while I saw the ruin, the anguish, tears and blood, My spirit moved within me, I trembled as I stood, And asked the hardened rumseller, "Is this the work you're doing, Thus crushing human hopes and dragging souls to ruin?" I then resolved more firmly, whate'er to me befell, I'd fight the liquor demon and drive him down to hell. So then, all legal voters, on you I loudly call. To vote for Prohibition, and do it sui-e this fall. To Her Afflicted Parents. The owner of this album is gone. The dear little creature has Med, She slumbers in yonder lone tomb. Is numbered among the pale dead. Amanda was pleasant and kind And sw^eet as the zephyrs of May — Her little but innocent mind Was as bright as the sun at noonday. Her cheeks were like roses in bloom, Her eyes were expressive, not bold, Her lips were sweeter than perfume Arising fi-om altars of gold. The stroke, 0, how^ cruel it seems ! The dear little creature must fall And moulder in yon silent urn ; But that is the fate of us all. Then hush such emotions as these ! Why mourn although she is gone? Herbarciue is not tossed on the seas. Or beaten by life's chilling storm. 68 SON(;S, HYMNS AXD I'OEMS, Her spirit has flown to the skies With angels forever to reign ; All tears are now wiped from her eyes, She will never suffer again. [ngratitude, Or a Box Of Gold. His locks were white and glistening, his form was bent with years, His eyes w-ere dim with seeing, and oft suffused with tears. His heart was sad and lonely and yet he cheerful seemed As from his careworn features the rays of sunshine beamed. His faithful, true companion had sunk into the grave And left him all alone tlie storms of life to brave — His children too had left him, had families of their own. And oft he sighed I'or sympathy wliile journeying on nlone. To gratify his children, he gave to them his lands, His mortgages and chattels and all within his hands ; And went to live among them, but soon saw his mistake, For all their solemn jn-omises were only made to 'break. They called him old and clumsy and always in the way. Said he was cross and peevish, and more so every day. And hoped he soon would leave tliem, they really wished him dead. His days on earth were ended, he in tlie church yard laid. Some had no room to keep him, for their large house was small. While others did not wish him for reasons clear to all ; Then life became a burden and he was sore distressed To witness their ingratitude and cruelty expressed. So in his sad perplexity he called upon a friend And told him all his troubles from beginning 1o the end ; And asked if he could tell liim what course he should pursue. To change his thankless children and make tliem kind and true. "I'll tell thee, neighbor Samuel, what thee had better do. To make thy pathway smoother and children kind and true. Take this small box of mammon, thee sees 'tis full u( gold, I've kept it many seasons to aid when I am old. "Go call on all thy children, and in a careless way. To gratify the little ones just show it day by day. And let them see the pieces and count tliem o'er and o'er, And tell them, if thee pleases, there are as many more." I'.Y KLDEK JOHN KT.l.rS. 6c) So pleased with tlie instruclidn of liis peeulinr fi-i(Mi(l. He takes the box of shining dust, which lie saw lit to lend ; And followed the instruction to sliow it all around, Then toolc it back in safety to wiiere it was lirst found. The strategy was jjotent, it worked a perfect charm, And changed theii- cold neglect to treatment kind and warm ; Each house was free and open for the dear old aged form, Witli lots of room and clothing to keep grandpajia warm. The time now jiassed on pleasantly, his sun of life was clear, And each vied with each other his aged heart to cheer, Till death came to release him from earthly toil and glooin. And lay his sacred ashes down iti the silent tomb. Then came the anxious inquiry about that box of gold, For who had got the treasure no one could then unfold ; And each accused the other and all tlie charge denied. And floods of consternation came in on every sid(\ At length our friend, the (Quaker, came in to their relief. And told them all about it ^nd of their father's grief, And how they had neglected him with cruel hearts and cold. Until deceived by lucre — that box of shining gold Now learn this wholesome lesson and teach the multitude That nothing cuts so keenly as our ingratitude — And when you get a favor from either God or man. Be mindful for the blessing and thankful for (lie same. Be gentle to the aged ones and treat them kindly here, Especially your parents who watched your tender years ; And smooth the way before them as they are growing old, And you will find it better than that small box of gold. Lines On Beino- Shut Out of Love Feast. (Not hate feast.) The last of I\Iay, it being fair, The sky sei-ene and pure the air. I to the house of Ciod did go. The sacred truth that I might know ; And as T ])assed along the way The little birds did seem to say, "Our God is good and we will sing SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, Tlie growing empire of our king." But when I reached the sacred place Where Jesus sliows His shining face, Tlie doors were closed against me there Tliat I might worship God elsewhere. "Our rules are good," they said to me, "The reason why you cannot see, But if you'll bow unto our creed, You'll find it blessed good indeed." "Now let me know the reason why Your meeting here I can't enjoy? The cheerful birds in yonder bower Are willing all the world should hear ; And if the songster in the bower. Is willing every one should hear. Why be contracted in your views, And the blest lamp of light refuse? Go learn a lesson from the birds. Who tune their harps to ])raise the Lord, And be more liberal in your mind, And h)ve the saints of every kind." Prohibition. I am a thorough going temperance man, The condition and uses of the world I scan, And I pity its sad condition ; The fountain of drink, I'd forever dry. And stop the How, cut off the supply ; And tliis is prohibition. When 1 see a baker so badly bold That in every loaf of bread he sold. There was poison in secret glutition, I'd oven him uj) in stone walls four, Where he would peddle out death no more, And this is prohihition. If I found a butcher in Market street. Selling his customers impure meat, The infamous son of perdition, I'd stall him where his meat would be sure. His bread all plain and his drink all pure. And this is prohiln'tion. I?V KLDEK JOHN ELLIS. If I knew of a serpent hid in tlie grass, Who was sure to bite every one as they'd pass, I'd crush his thirsty ambition ; For an iron heel on his head 1 would bring. And ci'ush out his life witli its poisonous sting, And this is prohibition. If I had a dog that was wont to bite. And worry my neighbors by day and by niglit, I'd h'x him by demolition ; For in spite of liis wagging, his yelps, or his fears, I'd cut off his tail close up to his ears, And this is prohibition. Advice to My Brother C. B. Ellis. You have labored long and faithful in summer, winter, spring, And have been quite successful in almost everything; You have a liome of plenty with everything to eat, Then why not take your comfort and rest youi- weary feet? Your boys are fixed up nicely, a grand good start in life. And Emma, good and handsome, may soon become a wife ; And lovely little Marion, so beautiful and bright, Can live with her dear papa, she has a perfect right. Your form is bent with labor and silver threads do show, And Lucy oft gets weary, she has so much to do ; Then rent your many acres to some good faitliful maTi, And take the world more easy as you now ought, and can. Invite your friends and neighbors to attend a public sale. And sell your plows and harrows, your wagons, cows and i)ails. Keep one good horse and buggy, and one' good milking cow; Dispose of all your cattle, likewise the pigs and sow. Then visit all your kindred and all the friends you please, Go see the works of nature and California trees ; And call on Zephaniali as you do pass along. And don't neglect the writer, your worthy brother John. Obtain good books and papers and take more time to read, And cultivate your intellect and scatter precious seed ; Fill up your days with usefulness while here on earth you roam, Tlien meet the approbation of "AVell and I'aitliful done." SOXGS, HYMNS AX I) POEMS, Written at the Home of Mrs. Lydia Hay ward. I called at the house of the mourner below, I entered the mansion of grief; The tears of deep sorrow most freely did flow, I tried, hut could give no i-elief. There sat a lone widow, dejected and sad. By affliction and sorrow oppressed ; And there were her children in mourning arrayed, And sighs were escaping their breasts. I spoke to the widow concerning her grief, And asked her the cause of her woe, And if there was nothing to give her relief, Or sooth her deep sorrow below. 8he looked at lier children, then looked upon me — That look I shall never forget — More eloquent far than a seraph could be, It spoke of the trials she met. " The hand of affliction falls lieaviiy, now, I'm left witli my children to mourn ; The friend of my youth lies silent and low. In yonder cold grave-yard alone. " But why should I murmur, or feel to complain, Or think that my portion is hard? Have I met with affliction? 'Tis surely his gain. He has entered the joys of liis Bord." Sad and Pleasant Memories. "Bemember, in tliy life time the good things had in store. While at thy gate poor Bazarus lay helpless, sick, and sore ; But now in dee])est torment thy thankless soul is cast, And he in Abram's bosom has found a liome at last." Thus spake the voice of Abram to Dives in the flames, Who asked a drop of water to ease his dreadful pains. Thus teaching us the lesson that memory is not dead, Tliough earthly forms may perish and in the dust be laid. BY ELDER JOHN EKEIS. Could Cain but once forget that awCuI, piercing sound, The blood of righteous Abel now crying from the ground ; Of Judas not remember his treachery and sin, As he betrayed the Master for selfish, sordid gain. Could those who slew tlie martyrs forget tlieir awful crime, Nor liear tlie plaintive pleading for mercy at their hands ; Could Herod not remember the many children slain, To gratify ambition that rankled in liis brain. Or if from all our memories, our sins could be erased, And all our misdemeanors and follies be etTaced, We never more remember our wickedness and strife, What loads of condemnation would be removed from life. "But remember, O, remember!" is written in the text, And man cannot erase it in this life or the next ; The actions of our past life, to us will all appear. And vivid recollections will sink us in desjjair. But if our sins are canceled, in Christ are washed away, The book of God's remembrance be balanced in that day ; How sweet the recollections, to us will then appear, Of deeds of love and kindness and good accomplislied Jiere. If we have clothed the naked, and fed the hungry here, Have entertained the stranger, and wiped the falling tear. Also, created sunshine in some desponding heart, Obeyed ouv Lord and Master and' sought (he better part- Have visited the widow and orphan in distress. And cheered the sad and lone ones, in this dark wiidernc^ss; If we have loved our Father, and all liis children here, What glorious recollections, to us will then appear. If we have fought the evils, that curse the human race. And battled for the right, in every way anil place, Have thrown our moral inllucnce against each flagrant wrong, We will then be applauded with, "Well and fait hful done !" Purified by the Fire.s of Affliction. /.T There are moments in life when the spirit is sad And the heart to desponding is given. When we in the fires of affliction are tried. To fit and reline us for heaven. fjA SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, The loved ones of earth ai'e taken away, "Which fills our sad spirit with sorrow, But in our affliction we hear Jesus say, "You'll meet them again on tlie morrow." The vile tongue of slander may tarnish our fame, And fill us with deepest of sadness, But Christ will protect us from all sorrow and shame, And crown our lone spirit with gladness. Our friends may forsake us and our foes all unite, And earth may appear to us dreary. Yet, the storm will be tempered to eaeli tender lamb And heaven give rest to the weary. Our way may be dark and our sky clouded o'er, And we by the world be forsaken ; Our baniue will glide safely to the beautiful sliore, Our faitli in God's word be mistaken. Look uj) then, dear pilgrim, to mansions above, Be sure that your sins are forgiven, For God will protect thee with kindness and love And take tliy tired sj)irit to heaven. A New Year's Hymn. Once more we greet a New Year's day, The old is gone, has passed away ; Its joys are lost, its soi-rows fled, And one and ninety-three are dead. Its sacred scenes, its joyful hours Have faded like the morning flowers, And while we hold these seasons dear. We greet again a new born year. How many changes thei-e have been ! The year that now has passed and gone In eastern lands and southern climes. In western wilds, o'er northern lines, Empires have trembled, monarchsfell ; The war-wlioops heard and savage yell ; Yet, still with God our lives are dear, We greet again a new born year. TiY ELDER JOUX EEI.IS. 75 And in our higlily favored land Wliere trutli and freedom boldly stand, Where light and love and virtue shin<» With brilliant luster all divine. We've had afTlictions, death and woe. Oppressive cares and sickness too, The thought of which calls out the tear, As we now greet the new born year. Some lovely friends we used to meet And in our social visits greet, With whom we wandered in the spring To hear the forest songsters sing ; 'Mid rural scenes to spend the hour And pluck the beauteous wild wood llovver, Now only live in memory dear, While we can greet the new born year. How many sighs, liow many tears, How many hopes, liow many fears Have crossed our path and marked our way Since last we saw a New Year's day. But wisdom's voice and virtue's ray Have cheered our hearts and lit our way. And Bethlehem's bright and morning Star Has brought us through anotlior year. Dare To Say iNo. Dare to say "No" when you are tem])ted to drink Pause for a moment, my boy, and think — Think of the wrecks upon life's ocean tossed, For answering "Yes" without counting the cost. Tliink of the mother who bore you in pain. Think of the tears that will fall like rain ; Think of Think of Think of Think o Think o her heart and how cruel the blow, her love and at once answer " No." the hopes that are drowned in the bowl, the danger to the body and soul ; sad lives once as pure as the snow, Look at them now and at once answer " No." SOXGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, Think of a manhood with a rum-tainted breath, Think how the glass leads to sorrow and death. Tliink of the liomes now shadowed with woe, Might have been heaven liad the answer been " Xo." Think of the lone graves both unwept and unknown, Hiding fair hopes that were as fair as your own ; Think of proud forms now forever laid low, That still might have been, liad they learned to say " No." Think of the demon that lurks in tlie bowl, Driving to sin both body and soul ; Think of all this as life's journey you go. And wlien you're assailed by the tempter say " No." A Dream of the Nio-ht. I dreamed a dream last niglit, A little strange and rare. And thought tliat I was sitting In that old rocking chair ; And Hardesty and Mattie, The boys and Jacob too. And Lina was among tliem, All pleasant, kind and true. Tlie night was dark and dreary, I heard the pattering rain As driven by tlie wild winds Agiiinst tlie vvindow pane ; Yet, all witliin was cheerful, And kindly words were said, And pleasant salutations As we retired to bed. But tlien before retiring, We bowed the knee in prayer, And asked our heavenly Father For His protecting care ; AVe sang the songs of Zion, The same we used to sing, Of gates and walls of Jasper, And Christ our heavenly king. BY ELDER JOHN KLEIS. 77 On the Death of Our Dear Charley. Gone to thy rest, dear boy, Thy work on earth is ended, And in thy everhistinghonie, Life, peace and joy are blended. No burning sun nor wintry storm Will reach tliy ({uiet rest ; No pain nor death nor discontent Will come where thou art blest. The summons from the spirit world Was thy dear Savior calling, And on His bi'east and in His arms You have no fears of falling No anxious thoughts, or broken heart, Nor dim nor weeping eyes. Will ever be thy portion there, Where nothing ever dies. There all is bright and endless life, Counts neither days or years. And as eternity rolls on. More lovely heaven appears. Tliere may thy brother and thyself. And sisters be united ; Where love and flowers will ever bloom. And ne'er by deatli be blighted. And may thy parents so believe In Christ, our dearest friend. That they through Him may meet with thee. When earthly cares shall end. Favor, Work, Sing, Pray and Vote Prohibition. I favor prohibition because I know it's right; It works a revolution amid the scenes of night. Abating many a nuisance, those streams of sin and woe. And wiping tears of sadness which now so freely How. ^8 SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, I work for prohibition, and work with all my might, And feel no hesitation, for I know that I am right ; It takes away temptation from the inebriate's path And saves the moderate drinker from ruin, shame and death. I sivg for prohibition a sweet melodious song. And trust the holy angels will waft the strain along ; For they are interested in poor, weak, fallen man, And surely will assist him in every way they can. I pray for prohibition an earnest, fervent prayer. That God may save the young men from rum's seductive snare ; And think that He will aid us with wisdom from on high. For He has heard the widow's and orphan's plaintive cry. I vote for prohibition and do it with a will, The deadly Bohon Upas I am resolved to kill ; And bind the liquor demon in prohibition's chain, And hurl him to perdition, forever to remain. A Pleasant Dream. I dreamed a pleasant dream last night, That seemed to do me good ; It filled my heart with sweet delight As in the past I stood. I thought that I was young again, And pressed with earthly care ; My children mingled in the scene. Were young and fresh and fair. My boys, with satchels in their hands. Were going to the school ; And Mary by my side did stand, A-singing s\veet by rule. The scene then clianged, I stood alone, And saw three little mounds, And names upon a marble stone, And rose leaves scattered round. And as I grieved in pensive mood, My heart with anguish riven, A voice then seemed to say to me, You'll meet them all in heaven. BY ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 79 Tlie scene tlieii changed with me again ; I stood in the house of prayer, Proclaiming truth to dying men, Exposed to long despair. I saw the weeping woman come And bow at Jesus feet, And enter in while there was room. Obtaining joys complete. I preached and prayed and wept and sung. With earnestness of heart ; While many on my preaching hung. And chose the better part. But in the midst of this good woi-lc. Which did so real seem, I unexpectedly awoke. And lo ! it was a dream. On Visiting My Native Land. I am happy to meet you once more in this land. My brethren and sisters so dear ; Witli pleasure I greet you and offer my hand. In Christian affection sincere. How oft we have met here in days past and gone. And bowed at the altar of prayer; And mingled our voices addressing the throne, For blessings to rest (m us here. The aged, the younger, both parent and child. And brothers and sisters have gone ; The vain and the haughty, the gentle and mild, Have sunli in the dark, dreary tomb. Though time maketh changes, in me is no change, Religion still lies neai" my heart ; The truths of the Gospel to me are the same, And witli them I never can part. The phitform of freedom I yet stand upon, -And have not deserted the Lord ; Tow'ard Christian perfection am pressing along. And love all the pious and good. 8o SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, Again I must leave you and bid you adieu, And go to the beautiful west, To publisli salvation in parts that are new, Inviting the weary to rest. Reluctant I leave you and weep as I go, To think that I from you am riven. Yet hope while the tears of tenderness How To meet all the loved ones in heaven. Pure and Undefiled Reliofion. There is on earth a cheering ray, To pensive mortals given ; Which soothes the heart fi'om sorrow's sway. And drives foreboding fears away, We call it pure religion. This i)recious gem is from above. 'Tis not a mere delusion, 'Tis not a dream, but perfect love, A shining peai'l, a heavenly dove, Are types of pure religion. It calms the angry storm within, The breasts of mourners weeping, It breaks the galling yoke of sin. And washes mortals white and clean ; Oh, this is pure religion ! It gives the weary pilgrim rest, And strength in each temptation ; It helps the widow in distress, The orphan and the fatherless, O, then embrace religion ! The Counter Part. I hate this prohibition, although it may be right. And will suiely fight against it both morning, noon and night: It takes away our freedom and gives us sumptuary laws. So I propose to fight against it and work against the cause. BY ELDER JOHN ELLIS. . 8l I work against the inarter, yet hesitate somewhat, Because my conscience tells me perhaps I better not ; There may be retribution laid up in store for me, For tempting boys and young men and leading them astray. I sing to prohibition the drunkard's rowdy song, And know that all the demons will waft the song along ; For they are interested in what we aim to do. Corrupting young immortals and dragging down to woe. T don't pi'aj' for prohibition, don't take much stock in ])rayer, If men will go to ruin it's not for me to care ; If they are not strong enough to shun the tempting bowl. Why, let them go to ruin in l)ody, mind, and soul. I vote against amendment, my liberty is at stake, My birth right of freedom shall no fanatic take ; I want my daily rations, will vote for the saloon, And with the world around me will meet my awful doom. I'll drink the sparkling liquid just where and when I will. And take it like the porker a-guzzling down his swill ; I have a right to drink it and make myself a fool. And ruin soul and body, then tumble into hell. riie Answer to the Foregoing. I think, dear friend, I have a soul. As taught by Christian men of old, A spiritual something briglit and fair, Xot made of irater, earth or air. A living, willing, thinking mind. For moral and mental ends designed, A something called the " inner man," By writers of the gospel plan. Possessing conscience, heart and love. And moral feelings from above. Will live with Christ in Paradise, When this poor mortal body dies. A¥e call it not immortal soul, But immaterial as a whole, God alone hath immortality, Dwelling in the light — etennty. 82 SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, Now, tell me, friends, have you a soul, A spirit deep witliin untold? Or, are you like the beasts that roam. Composed of flesh and blood and bone ; And like tlie brutes will live and die, Then drop in vast nonentity? But as for me give me a soul, And let me live on years untold. Live here the life of pure Christianity, Then enter into glorious immortality. Fifty Years Ao;o. I'm glad to meet you all, dear friends, Whom I have met before. And preach to you the word of life, As in the days of yore ; Extend the hand of Christian love. As oft we used to do, When I was with you in this place. Some fifty years ago. We preached and prayed, we wept and sunj And labored for the right ; And gathered precious souls to Christ, Near every day and night ; We saw the church of God built up, And precious seed did sow O'er hills and valleys in this land. Some fifty years ago. But what a change we now behold Among tlie brethren here ! How many loved ones now are gone, For whom we shed a tear ! I think of ISIarvin, Kote and Lane, And J. H. Currier, too; I think of Harvey, Row and Jones, Some fifty years ago. Just one is left, and only one. Of all the preachers then. And he is bowed with age and toil. His race is nearly run ; 15V ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 83 And, yet, ho loves the Savior si ill, Is gent If, kind and true, And loves tiie trutli we used to preach. Some fifty years ap,n. The storms of lil'e liave bent hi// form. And silver threads are seen, But still my faith is just the same. My sjiirit fresli and green. I love tlie Lord, I love His word. Hove my brethren too, And preach the same pure gospel now As fifty years ago. Once more I bid you all adieu, And leave you in God's care, And hope you'll all remember me Before the throne in prayer. I hoi)e to meet you all again, Although we part in tears, In Caanan's fair and happy land In less than fifty years. [iivitatioii Hymn, When the dreamy spell is broken, When the chai-m of sin is gone, Wlien the book of life is open, And thou standest at His throne. What will be thy bitter wailings, When before that awful bar? Prayers and tears not then availing Thou wilt sink in deep despair. Art thou aged? Think of dying, Pause and view the silent tomb ; Pi'ecious moments swiftly flying Soon will fix thy final doom. Hast thou grieved God's holy spirit, Spurned the Gospel from thy heart? Oh, return through Jesus' merit. Seek in Christ the better part ! Sa songs, hymns and poems, Youtlit'iil friends, the Lord is calling. Saying, " Tuimi ; why will you die?" Mercy drops around are falling, Jesus Christ is passing by. AVill you heed the invitation. That to you in love is given? Seek, O, seek your soul's salvation, Leave your sins and fly to heaven I Anxious sinner deeply mourning, Weeping o'er thy ruined state, Will you heed the solemn warning, Ere with you it be too late? Jesus loves a contrite spirit. Will not break a bruised reed ; He will save you through His merit, If you to your ways take heed. Has thy way been dark and dreary? Has the world ungrateful been? Hast thou oft been faint and weary. And thy pathway strewn with sin? Is thy bosom filled with sadness, And despair a frequent guest? 0, return to Christ in gladness; Enter now into His rest. • nvitation Hymn. Dear friends, I have come tu invite you To leave off your follies and turn ; With the power of truth would excite you, Before you in torment do burn. C/(or/(.v— Turn! Turn! O, turn ! Before you in torment do burn. Oh ! I weep when I view your condition, And I sigh as I think of your doom. Exposed to eternal perdition. As madly in folly you roam. BY KLDEK JOHN EM.IS. You will tiiiiik of the words I have spoken, The truth to you I declare ; And remember the vows you liave broken, As you sink in tlie niglit of despair. You will cry for the rocks and the mountains To V)ury you deep in thfe sand, Or will plunge in the ocean's dark fountain, For who will be able to stand? At the Laying of the Corner Stone of Antioch College. 1852. " Behold in fair Zion a chief corner stone," Said the Savior — the Lamb that was slain — And he that now buildeth his hopes tliereupon, Shall never be moved or ashamed. The ! I range through distant regions, Far fi-om friends 1 hold most dear — A\'lii]e o'er souls exposed to ruin. Oft I shed the anxious tear; Still my heart with warm emotion, Fondly will revert to you, Time nor distance cannot sever I\Ie from those I bid adieu. Say yoQ will your feeblest servant On your faithful pinions bear — Wlien your love and faith are fervent, Will you mention me in prayer? Surely on my mind I'll bear you. — Though I may far off remove — And my spirit will be with you. Till we take our seats above. T?Y Kl.DKK JOHN ELMS. lie Overthrow of Nineveh. 87 Tlie sun .-irose in splciulor. niul vvitli his orient lociis Illumed the face , one moment, what sound is this I heai-? Is it the sound of music, most cliarming to my ear? Ah ! no ; 'tis the cry of mourning— the people in despair! Are humbled nair, in ashes, and sackcloth made of hair. The voice of six score thousand is heard in fervent lu-ayer, Bewailing their condition, and saying: " Heaven spare"— Their prayers were most ett'ectual, they reached Jehovah's ears, And moved Him with compassion— He spared them forty years. 88 SOXGS. HYMNS A XI) POEMS, The Singing Evangelist. Prof. J. E. MA WES. Go sing tlie precious gospel in every land and clime, Yes, bear the heavenly message, in melody divine ; And sing it with the " Spirit and understanding, too," Then trust in .Testis' merit to guide you safely throtigh. Go sing the love of Jesus, and sing, lie died for all — And wrought out free salvation, for each, both great and small. Go sing of shining mansions, and freedom from all sin, If we obey the Savior, and " strive to enter in." There's power in sacred music to melt the hardened soul — Subdue the heart to .Jesus, and make the wounded whole — It soothes the deepest sorrow, and cheers the lonely here, And helps us bear our burdens, and wipes the falling tear; Inspires tlie soul with ardor, and strengthens all the weak, It aids the gospel preacher as he goes forth to speak ; Then sing of our Kedeemer — His wondrous love to men — And gather up the lost ones, now in the depths of sin. May Christ be ever with you, and fill your soul with love; May neede(J insj)iration come from llie courts above; And wlien your song is ended, you jo'n the blood-w^ashed thronj If we forget the tut hope, when my earth-work is done, I shall meet these dear, loved ones, in heaven. Shall Not Desert the Ministry. You say I'm old and feeble — my locks are tliin and gray ; And ought to leave the pulpit — to younger men give way ; Although I preach like heaven — my voice is clear and strong — I'm active and vigorous, and musical in song. I also love the Savior, and full of gos|)el truth — Can iJreach as well, or better, than in the'days of youth — And the power of truth is with me, and souls are gathered in From hedges and highways, and from the depths of sin. 1 am a staunch reformer, clear to the forvvaj-d rank, And favor all improvements, and yet am not a crank ; I preach up Christian union, and fervency in prayer, And ask for all the graces with earnestness and care. The harvest fields are whitening, and faithful reapers few, Then why should I be idle, there is so much to do? Should I not preach the gospel, and preach it day and niglit, And labor in the vineyard, and work with all my might? 90 SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, But, tlien, the younger preachers, with fairer form and lace, Must have a field of labor — are wanting, now, my place — They are graduates of college, witli classic lore and Greek — Have logic and fine gestures, and know just how to speak. Did Paul, when he was aged, desert the gospel field ? And to the noisy clamor for young men ever yield ? When Timothy, and Titus, and Barnabas were there, He worked with tliem, in harmony, to aid, instruct and cheer. So I design, my brother, continuing in the field, iSTor to your (r/.sr suggestion do I proijose to yield. I have preached the ancient Gospel for years, almost three score, And, by the Loi-d's permission, I will preach it sixty more. 1891. Opening- Address." IXTRODUOTION. From the liills and the valleys, from the mountains and streams, From the scenes of our labor we come ; From the higliways and hedges, the streets and the lanes, With our staff, and our sandals girt on. The bleak winds of winter, so piercing and cold, And hot summer suns we have tried ; To gather the Lambs unto Jesus, the fold, And seek for our Master a Bride. With a spirit undaunted we have battled for riglit. And shrunk from no liardshi]) or pain ; The afllictions endured we liave ct)unted but light, And reckoned our losses all gain. At the couch of the sick and the dying we've knelt, And mingled our S])irits in prayer ; For suffering liumanity deeply have felt. As we brushed off the grief-stricken tear. While we've published salvation to a sin-ruined world, And lield up the light of (xod's word ; The banner of goodness and truth have unfurled. Many, yea many, have flocked to the Lord. *Delivered before the Miami Christian Conference, at its annual session, held at Yellow Springs, Ohio, August 30, 1859. nv ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 9I ']\[id the perils of lil'e, .-ibove iind lieiieatli, And the dan^ei's both seen and unseen, The Lord has preserved from sickness and deatii, Upholding lis V)y His I'iglit liund. And now in our annua! j^athering we mec^t, J>otli laymen and ministers too; And thankful onee more that in Conference we greet The loved, the tried, and the true. Old men for counsel and yoinig men for war, Is a maxim that Solomon gave; And as we look round we may see them all here, The old, and the young, and the brave. 'Mid the duties and dangers of last Conference year, But one from our ranks has Vjeen riven ; — One watchman of Zion, held sacred and dear, Has left, and asc»>nded to heaven. His widow and children feel lonely and sad. And weep as we mention liis name ; The Church and tiiis Conference truly feel bad, Yet believe that our loss is his gain. His seat is now vacant— or tilled by another — We meet him in Conference no more; « We pause here one moment — we loved that dear brother. Brother Lad ley has jiassed on befoi-e. May w isdom direct us in all that we do, Ko folly or sin in us lurk ; That wlien with the laboi- of C-onference we're through. Refreshed ue may go to our work. OUR POSITION ANn DOCTUINE. We call ourselves Chi-ist iaiis, not anything more. No titles succeeding or going before ; AVe til ink it most natural, it leads to no strife. For Christ is oar luisband and we the Lamb's wife. We give not the glory to Cephas or Paul, Appollos or James, for Clirist is our all ; No Wesley or Luther, no Calvin or Fox, AVe claim as a leader, foundation or Kock. SONGS, HYMXS AND POEMS, No human invention of platform or creed, We take as a standard and sacredly heed ; Our creed is the Bible, the Spirit our guide. All Christians our bi'ethren — a truth undenied. The doctrine we teach, and have from our youth. Is the doctrine of Reason, Revelation and Trutli, Unmixed with traditions and the dogmas of men ; As pure as the morning, as clear as the sun. We talk of no three all mysteriously one. Nor think that our Savior's both Father and Son ; But believe in one God, and only in one. And one Mediator between God and man. The teaching of Jesus, -the -example He set. The miracles wrought, the blood and the sweat — His sufferings and death, as He bore the great load, Was the atonement He made to bring us to God. We teach that the chui'ch of Messiah is one. United in s^iirit like the Father and Son ; That party distinctions forever should cease. And saints all unite as dear children of peace. We advocate liberty of conscience throughout, Believe in a free interchanging of speech ; Are liberal in sentiment, feeling and tliought, Designing to practice the doctrine we preach. Although we are liberal in thought and in deed, And mean to be free from bigotry's chain ; The law of tlie spirit of life we will heed, Be practical Christians without and within. The life is w^hat constitutes Christians with us. Externals are trifling when with it compared ; The crown we seek lies under the cross ; The faithful alone for heaven's prepared. We boast not of members, of titles or fame. Nor join with the world in their envy and strife ; With tlie learned and the great we scarce have a name, Yet rejoice it is written in the Lamb's book of life BY ELDER JOHN ELLIS. 93 We make no pretentions to smoothness of speech, Scholastic divinity by us is abhorred ; The preaching we offer is not out of reach, But simple and easy, the Word of the Lord. Enlightened and ])ious our ministers are, The banner of purity having unfurled ; Though lacking in polish, not lacking in power. For truth and good sense we challenge the world. THK COLLEGE. There are moments in life when the spirit is sad, And tlie heart to desponding is given ; When the sky is o'ercast and the flowers all fade. And the soul truly yearneth for heaven. There are feelings we haye that we cannot express, iSo sad is the spirit's emotion ; When the soul is o'erwhelmed in the deepest distress. Like a mariner lost on the ocean. There are thoughts that we have that we cannot describe, When the loved from our bosoms are riven ; The wise and the good, the true and the tried. Ascend in their chariots to heaven. 'Tis thus that we feel while we mention the name. And tliink of the loss to our college ; The great and the noble, the loved Horace Mann, The cham])ion of wisdom and knowledge. And often we ask, as our Moses is gone. If a Joshua lives in this region ; And can he be had to conduct us along. O'er the turbulent waters of Jordan? When the loved of the earth, the great and the good, Are called from their stations in Zion, 'Tis surely no time in discouraging mood, To give ourselves up to repining. The clouds may be gloomy, the rain falling fast. The thunders most awfully pealing, Yet God will protect us, and we see when it's past. His love in the tempest revealing. 94 SONGS, HVMXS AND POEMS, A man can be found, I doubt not at all, To fill this i-esponsible station ; A man who w ilj f^ive satisfaction to all. And honor the college and nntion. A man of true wisdom and goodness combined. Wlio stands on the top-stone of learning ; Wlio really seems to our people inclined, And for tlieir best good has been yearning. When such is obtained, and obtained he will be, These halls will be soon overflowing With the youth of our land, both the grave and the gay. For we liave the means sure of knowing. Let our brother tlien rest in the sleep of the grave, Baptized with the dew of affection ; His spirit commend to that being who gave, 'Till we meet in the first resurrection. His widow and orphans, and the students may come. As the sun in the west is reclining. The myrtle and lily may plant on his tomb, Yet never indulge in repining. THE STOKM. A storm has passed over tlie land, A tempest has darkened the sky. Undaunted however we stand, And shall till the day that we die. If asked for the cause of the storm, What reason tliere was for the squall, To be honest, and meaning no harm, 'Twas just about nothing at all. A mote was in somebody's eye — A spot was seen on the sun — Old Jealousy set up her cry, And all of lier votaries run. Our driftings most surely were bad — An enemy lurked in the dark — The faithful would soon be betrayed. Or eat by a dragon or shark. BY ELDER JOHN ELLIS. g^ The tempest, hovvevev, is past, Again the horizon is cU'ar ; Yet nobody's hurt by the bhist, And tiie llowers of alfection appear. We hope it may charity teach. And wisdom be h'arned by the past; That kindness extending to each Will meet its reward at the last. And also, that envy and strife, As oft in the Scripture is said ; Will sap the foundations of life, And fall on the slanderer's head. My brethren, we ought to be one, And labor to benefit all ; United, we most surely will stand, Divided, as surely will fall. The measure to others we give. To us will be measured again ; And we will surely receive, The treatment we offer to them. If kindness and love is the rule, Forbearance and charity ours. The cup of our bliss will be full, ( )ur i)athway be scattered with flowers. OUR PROSPECTS. It gives us joy without alloy. To see the morning light ; Our sky is clear, our sun appears. And prospects now are bright. Young men we see w'ith conscience free, Whose hearts are full of zeal ; With us unite to bear the light. And do their Master's will. Witii book in hand they boldly stand, The gospel now to preach ; With earnest heart the truth impart. To all within their reach. C)6 SOXGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, Our Sabbath schools with Scripture rules, Throughout the land are seen ; The youth are brought and early taught To shun the paths of sin. Our friends awake strong measures take, To fill our lands with schools ; From party free and bigotry, Ana from sectarian rules. Our college here redeemed this year. And to the Christians given, In this fair land shall ever stand, And from us ne'er be riven. Some in the east, some in the west, One in the sunny south ; With fountains pure of literature. Now training up the youth. Our papers, too, appear in view, In majesty are drest ; Improved in tone, at least the one .Belonging to the west. Of this to-day, not much I'll say, Lest some should think me vain ; But this is true, as known to you. It needed such a change. Sometimes it liappens in sweet retrospection. Events deep and thrilling appear to our view; Our spirits arousing and giving direction, We start off in life with an energy new. So should I indulge in this a few moments — And call up the past as connected with me ; Speak of the loved, and those sacred endearments — You'll pardon, if vain you may take me to be. Ten years of my childhood had scarcely departed. When death on his pale horse appeared at our door: I wept in deep anguish, I felt broken-hearted, That lovely, dear mother, I knew was no more. BY ELDER JOHN EELIS. 07 When a youth at nineteen, I sought for the Savior, And entered the service of God and the Lamb; Felt happy in God, yet watched well my behavior, And preached my first sermon when just twenty-one. From tlien till the present, I never have faltered — But published tlie gospel steadily on ; For twenty-five years my compass unaltered— And will be for twenty-five years to come. The storms of this life beat heavy upon me. And often I sigh for a season of rest. Yet, nothing discouraged, tliese things do not move me, I wish to wear out in the cause I love best. The church of my choice I surely love dearly. And never shall leave it while a plank there is left ; xA.nd stronger, yea stronger, my attachments are yearly, As onward we move toward the land of the blest. And now let me offer to you in conclusion Reflections I have that may benefit some : And I hope what I say you'll not think a delusion, Remember, I'm speaking just now to the young. As you feel impressed to publish salvation. Yet linger, perhaps, almost fearing to go ; I would say to you surely, without hesitation. Commence in the work, the gospel trump b!ow. The fields are now white, all ready for reaping, And laborers faithful are seemingly few ; And spirits immortal on ruin's brink sleeping, Then, Watchman, we ask, Oh ! where now ai-e you? " The harvest is past and the summer is ended," Will soon be the wailing of spirits in woe ; The day of probation will then be suspended. The soft gales of mercy no longer will blow. Go enter the vineyard — no longer delaying — Lay every excuse and temptation aside ; Though it be in great weakness, trusting and praying. Go win for our Master in heaven a bride. g8 SONGS, HYMNS AND POEMS, My speech now is ended, I bid you adieu, And hope on your journey you'll faithful pursue: Go forth to your labors when the Conference is o'er- Be ten times as useful as ever before. The field is before us, extensive and wide, The foe is advancing with wonderful stride; A voice now is calling from the deep haunts of woe, Ye Watchmen of Zion, the gospel trump blow. Go save the inebriate, release the oppressed. Go say to the weary in Jesus there's rest ; Call home the backslider, bring sinners to God, Encouraging Christians now traveling the road. Before we in Conference assemble again, No doubt in the graveyard some will be lain ; Yet we trust in the Savior who for us was given. If faithful to God, we will meet them in heaven. My Own Dear Native Home. Written at the age of eighty. I'm an exile and a stranger as here on earth I roam. And often feel quite weary, as I have no earthly home ; Yet know our Lord and Master is fitting up a place In our Father's heavenly mansion, the kingdom of His grace ; He said to His disciples, as He was going away, T(» fit up precious mansions for His people in that day. He would come again in glory, when the work on earth was done, And take His weary children to their immortal home. I have preached the ancient gospel for sixty happy years, And warned the careless sinner in earnestness and tears ; Inviting all to Jesus, the aged and the youth, And saw them bow in pe'"itence and thus obey the truth. And often have I labored in sunshine and in storm, And felt the pangs of hunger, of cold neglect, and scorn ; And often been so weary that I could scarcely stand, Yet knew that Christ v.ould guide me to my own dear native laiid. BY ELDER JOHN ELLIS. CJC) My early friends have left me for (heir immortal home, Have left me sad and lonely to journey on alone ; My form is bent with labor, my locks with age are gray. My eyes are dim with seeing and short my earthly stay. Yet God is ever with me and joy my heart doth swell, ]\Iy faith is strong as ever as .Tesus' love I tell ; My hope is like an anchor as by the cross I stand. And know I soon will enter my own dear native land. And yet I wish to labor in the vineyard of the l^ord And gather u[) the lost ones now on the downward road ; Assisting every Christian to press on to the end. And tell the poor l)acksiider that Christ is still his friend ; And when my toil is over, my earthly race is run, I hope to hear applaudets of "Well and faithful done," And join the blood-washed millions around that great, white throne, In that delightful country, my own dear native home. COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY I 0035521287 938.6 EL59 BRITTLE DO NOT PHOTOCOPY MAY? 1958