Columbia (MnilJcri^itp LIBRARY LIFE OF W I L L I A M ALLEN, •\V!TH SELECTIONS EROM HIS COREESPONDENCE. IN THREE VOLUMES. VOL. II. LONDON: CHARLES GILPIN, i'-ISlIOPSGATE STREET WITHOUT. 1846. BRIGHTON PKINTED BY ARTIIUK WALLIS, nUNTEK AND BOOKSELLER, 0, BAETHOLOMEWS. 5^^-Yl5:k% (> A v.Z C N T E NTS, CHAPTER XII. r.vGE. ISIO. — Various Engagements — luteiTiCw with tlie Empress ^Mother — Letter to Joseph Poster — Secontl lutevvicw with the Emperor — Interview with, tlic Empress Elizabeth — Taking Leave — Departure from Petersburg — Arrival at Movogorod — Tver — Elforts to promote benevolent cKcrtious — Arrival at }.[oscow — Visits to diit'crent persons — To prisons and other Institutions — Report to tlic Emperor — To the Empress Mother — Visit to Alexander Eodgers — -Letter to Count Komanzof — Taking leave at Moscow 1 o CHAPTER Xlll. 1819. — Departure from Moseow — Visit to General Naschokiun — Toula ■ — Orel — Koursk — Riclgorod — Karkov — Arrival at Ekaterinoslav — General Contiueas — Malakans — Visit to the German Colonics of Mcnnon ites — Simferopol — Karasan Bazar — Theodosia — P. eturn from Simferopol — Cherson — Tomb of Howard — Xicolief — Odessa — Voyage to Constautinople — Visit to Diplomatic Characters at Beeyuk-terc — Arrival at Smyrna — Visit to the Boy Eifendi — On Board the Boat forScio 49 CHAPTER XIV. 1819 — 1820.— Scio — Voyage in the Archipelago — Athens — Cormth — Patras — Quarantine at Zantc — Serious Illness — Corfu — S. Grellet proceeds to Italy — TV. Allen to jialta — State of Education — Institu- tions — Voyage to Civita Vccchia — Quarantine — Rome — Eloreuce — ililan — Pass of Jvlount Cenis — Geneva — Paris — Arrival at Home 104 CHAPTER XV. 1S20. — Friends' Address to the Kiug — Engagements in the Ministry — Committee on Ciipital Punishments — Attends the Yearly Meeting in Dublin — Lectures at the Hospital resumed — Eoreign Corrcspou- denccj S:c. 101 VI CONTENTS. CHAPTER XVI. PAGE. 1S21 — 1822. — Extracts from Correspondence — Death of Walter Ven- uiiig — Various Engagements — Intelligence from Ekatcrinoslav — Yearly Meeting — Reflections and Engagements — Visit to Sussex and Surrey — Origin of the Establishment at Lindfield —Letter from Daniel "Wheeler — Attends different Meetings — Marriage of his Dauo-hter — Letter from the South of Russia — Visit to the Yearly Meeting in Dublin — Various Engagements — Visit to New Lanark — Letter to the Emperor of Russia — Prepares to set out for Vienna 187 CHAPTER XVII. 1S22. — Journey to Vienna — Exertions on behalf of the poor Greeks — Interviews with the Emperor of Russia, and other distinguished persons — Proceeds to Verona, and endeavours to promote the Aboli- tion of Slavery, &c. 247 CHAPTER XVIII. 1S22. — Departure from Verona — Turin — A^isit to the Waldeuses— Letter to the Emperor of Russia— Journey to Geneva — Sundry engagements there and at Lausanne, Vevay, Eribourg, Berne, Zurich, St. GaUen, Tubingen, Stuttgard, Bergzabern, and Strasbui-g — Visit to Pastor Oberlin — Journey to Paris — Return Home .... 288 CHAPTER XIX. 1S23. — Distressed Greeks— Society for the Abolition of Slavery — Letter to the Emperor of Russia — Birth of his Grandson — Death of liis Daughter — Correspondence, &c. ..... 323 CHAPTER XX. 1824. — ^^''isit to Lanark — Recommences Lectures — Correspondence — Yearly Mcetmg— Death of Sir C. Macarthy— Visit to Northampton- shire — Establishment of the School at Stoke Newington — Committee on Greek Refugees — Bible Society, &c. in Russia — Death of John Thompson and Richard Smith — Joui-ncy to Ipswich and Needham 373 CONTENTS. Vll ClIAPTEll XXI. tagj:. 1S25 — 1820. — Sciioois for tlic Poor at Stoke Newington — African Tusti- tulioii— Return of D. iriicclcr a;id T. Sliiilitoc from Russia— Cottage Society — Brifisk and Irisli Ladies' Societ^^— Death of Professor i Pictet— African Concerns — Anniversaries — Yearly Meeting —Cor- j respondence— Establisliment of tlie Schools, &c. at Lindfield — Death of tiie Emperor of Russia — Visit to several Quartciiy Meetings — | Conclusion of Hosi)itid Lectures— Visit to Ireland— Correspondence, &c.— His I^Lirriage— Letter from Prince A. Galilzin— Prom Contincas 392 J. T F E OF W I L L I A M A L L E N , CHxVPTEE XIl. 1819. — ^"Various Engagements — Intemew Tritli the Empress Mother — Letter to Joseph Foster — Second Inter\de\y with the Emperor — Interview with the Empress Elizabeth — Taking Leave — Departure from Petersburg — Arrival at Novogorod — Tver — Efforts to promote benevolent exertions — Arrival at ^loscow — Visits to different persons — To Prisons and other Institutions — Report to the Emperor — To the Empress Mother — Visit lo Alexander Rodgers — Letter to Count Romanzof — Taking leave at Moscow. ■' Second Mord'k Wtli, 1S19. — ^\A e v.'ent to meeting as usual at Daniel Wheeler's. Called on the Princess j\Iesicliei'sky, ^vllo is ]ooorlv and seems low: she intends o'oincj to Tver in a few davs, and appointed seventh-day morning for us to go and spend a little time \\\\X\ her. We dined v.ith tlie ^Minister of the Interior. Karadavelof, avIio had invited a party of our friends, and we met Papof, D'Junkovsk}', Daniel Wheeler, &c., &c. I had a little conversation witli Papof before dinner, and gave him my notes on the journey from Abo to Wyboi-g to be transmitted through the Prince to the Em])eror. This was a very sociable party, and we had a great deal of free conversation. ^Ve were treated with the most marked respect, and I had to hand the Princess Troobetskoy into the dining room; such conspicuous positions are often very trying to me, but I endeavour to put the very best face upon the matter, and nuist acknowledge that hitherto I have been favoured to acquit myself upon all trying occasions in a manner which has VOL. II. B 2 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. afforded peace in tlie retrospect. "We went to Dr. Paterson's in the evening, and worked at the Lessons till late. Second Month \'?>th. — Engaged after breakfast in putting in the heads to the Lessons: it is a longer job than one would imagine. About ten o'clock we went to the Smolney Monastery to visit the institution for seven hundred gii-ls, under the care of the Empress Dowager. We were met bv the directress who received us with the same kindness as before, and took ns through the spacious rooms in which the different classes are taught ; we saw several of them examined in geography, grammar, natural philosophy, and geometry. One of the elder girls came forward and resolved a prob- lem upon a large black board. They generally appeared to answer very readily. They are taught dra^\ing in chalk, and we saw many beautiful specimens in different rooms; they likewise learn music and singing, as part of what are called polite accomplishments, but our conductress told us that, in addition to embroidery and the finest works of the needle, they are taught to make their own clothes; they learn also the Russian, Erench, and German languages. We were much pleased to hear of the attention wliich is paid to th(^ subject of rehgious instruction ; the liberal plan upon which it is conducted does honour to the Empress Mother and to the country. Though the Greek church is the national religion, yet the children of Roman Catholics and Lutherans are not only received, but apartjnents are appropriated in the ]\'ronastery to their different forms of worship, and the children arc instructed in the religion of their parents by their own clergy. We saw them all assembled for dinner, when some of them repeated a prayer, bowing and crossing themselves rapidly in tlie usual way ; after this they sang a hymn beautifully. They looked as if they were well cared for, and had altogether a healthy appearance. On returning to our lodgings we put up as many of the Scripture Lessons as were finished, and took them to Papof. "\^'e had a most satisfactory conversation with him, in which his heart seemed quite open, and we were truly glad we went. He is delighted Avith the Lessons. 14/i. — The Empress Mother having appointed us to be at 1lu> palace at one o'clock, we accordingly went, and found every thing 1819.] OF ^VILLIAM ALLEN'. 3 in the same state and grandeur as before. We met with nothing however, but what was very respectfol. We were soon conducted by the Empress's secretary to a very hirge apartment, at the further end of wliicli tlie Empress was standing alone, but there was a door open into a room beyond, where several ladies were just getting a peep at us. She is a tall fine figure; there is something very graceful and dignified in her manner, and one sees immediately, from her countenance, that slie is a very clever woman. She advanced towards us v.itli much benevolence and kindness, said several handsome things to us, and how^ glad she was to have an opportunity of seeing u?. She had been informed of our visits to the institutions under lier care, and asked many questions, i'cmarking, that ii was her an?doas wish to make then! as perfect as possible, and that she sliould be glad of any sugges- tions from us; she added, tliat if it liad not been for the affliction v,-hieh had so recently befallen her, in the death of her daughter, tlie Queen of Wurtcmberg, she v/ould have shcv/n Ihem to us herself. As she thus introduced the subject of her loss, it afforded the opportunity for a little religious conversation. She stood during the whole of the intervicvi", and lier secretary was present all the time. We could but highly commend the care of the Empress in providing for the cdacatiun of so many hundred young females, and took that occasion, to represent the neglected state of the poorest class of girls. I told her of what was doing in England, and promised to scud her a manual through Count Lieveii, vrith which she secmeci much pleased, and I endeavourcJi to explain somewhat of the plan, upon a little sketch which I had made of a school roon\ for four hundred ; when I afterwards held out my hand for it, she smiled, and said she would keep it. Tlie Empress wished us to see her otlier institutions, and particularly that for orphans, called St. Maiy's. She desired us to communicate with her at any time on what nn'ght occur in the course of our journey, and offered to give us introductions to her institutions at Moscow. After a highly satisfactory iiiier\'iew of about an hour^ Ave took our leave, and at parting I felt it on my mind to say in Erench, ''May the Lord bless the Empress and the pious works of her hands,' wliich wns excrrdiuQ'lv avpH received. We returned to B i) •i LIPE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1S19. our lodgings, thankful that this interesting and important interview was so well got throu2;h, and we must continue the s;rateful acknowledgment that the way is still marvellously opened before us, though accompanied with close and deep conflicts. We sent off the last of the Gospel Lessons to Papof. We have sweetly felt, while employed in this work, that we were performing a great duty, — the consequences of it here are quite incalculable. The school plan ^ill go through Russia, and upon our system. After tea, dear Stephen and I sat down together and had a precious season of religious retirement. My petitions were mentally put up to the Lord that he would be pleased to look down upon his two poor solitary servants, wandering over the face of his earth, and my mind was so filled with divine good that I was ready to say, ' It is enough.'' We were sweetly refreshed together. Second Month \iyth. — We called in upon Pesarovius, and had much religious and satisfactory conversation with him and his wife. \&th. — We went, by appointment, to Prince Alexander Galitzin, and found Papof with him. They had the Gospel Lessons before them, and were highly dehghted with them. The Prince said that if we had done nothing but this at Petersburg, it was well worth while to have come. We all agreed upon the few verses from the Acts wliich Papof proposed to finish with, and I quite think it ^^^ll be an improvement; they are both heartily with us upon this ground, and the Prince is eager to lay the Lessons immediately before the Emperor. There was a full and free flow of christian fellowship while we were together. The Prince says that the Emperor was much pleased with the interview we had with him, and intends to see us again. Hence we went to an establishment for orphans, called St. Mary's; it is maintained entirely at the expense of the Empress Dowager, and is for those children whose parents are artisans, &c. They look healthy and very neat and clean. They are taugiit reading, writing, &c., also the Prench and German languages, useful kinds of needle-work, embroidery, and drawing ; they like- wise learn to knit, and great pains are taken to find suitable situations for them when they are of an age to leave the institution, on which they receive one hundred roubles and a complete set of 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 5 clothing. They rise at six o'clock all the year round, and besides having prayers, read every evening in the Scriptures. The wholo place was exceedingly neat. There is no diificulty in procuring places for the girls educated here. If some of our English ladies would imitate tliis illustrious example, how much purer pleasure would they receive than from routs and balls. Second Month \ltJi. — I received a letter from my dear child, which brought an account of the decease of dear Mary Hoare. The poor of Stoke Newington will have suffered a great loss in her, as well as the cause of the education of the poor generally. It calls forth thankfulness that her mind was preserved in calmness ; she departed in peace on the morning of the twenty-first of first month. I had rejoiced in believing that the dear Master was dra\\ing her nearer to himself before I knew of her indisposition, a]id am truly thankful that I paid her a visit before I left home. The feelings which I had upon that occasion are still fresh in my mind, and a source of comfort, though I Avas not at all a^'are of what was impending. My sympathy is excited for her near relatives ; may this dispensation of Him who doeth aU things well, be blessed to them, as it assuredly will if it tends to fix their minds on the only Source of good. 0, how little are aU the pleasures and honours of the world compared with the presence of the Redeemer and Comforter, when the Spirit itseU' beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. \Wi. — We went to meeting at D. Tvlieeler's this morning, and drove most part of the way upon the Neva, where they are fitting up ice mounds and building a httle wooden town upon the river. At meeting my mind was calmed and peaceful. AVe dined at John A^enning's, where we met Papof, Count Lieven, and Dr. Paterson ; there was no other company, and we had a very satisfactory visit. A\ e went fairly into the business of schools and of the Lessons; with the latter they are all delighted, and we have almost, if not quite, convinced the Count of the vast importance of establisliing schools for the poor. We wish to have them all under the care of Prince A. Galitzin, Pa])of, and Count Lieven, because we know they have the cause of Christianity deeply at heart. 6 LIFE AXD CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Second Month t^th. — After breakfast, went to Dr. Paterson'sj and began the section of School Lessons, ' Duties to God and Man."* '22)1(1. — Went to tlie Bible House where we met Papof, and found that the Emperor had approved the Lessons, and ordered eight thousand roubles to be devoted to the printing instead of seven thousand, the estimate given in by Paterson. Thus is this great work sealed. Worked till past tln:ee, and again at our lodgings till between one and two o" clock in the morning." In a letter to his dear friend Joseph Foster, written shortly after this period, William Allen mentions the progress of the school plan, but adds — ""'It has many enemies — some persons totally object to all iittempts to diffuse hght and knowledge among the mass of the people, others are only afraid of the consequences, as it might alfect those who owned peasants, and some pious and valuable persons hesitated, lest the poor, in acquiring the faculty of readmg, should employ it to a bad pm-pose. What I have suffered in endea- vouring to convince some of this class, I think I shall never forget, but at length I believe it was providentiaBy put into my mind to Slit about a revision of Freame's Scripture Lessons, so as to adapt ihcin to the present state of Russia. I soon saw, however, that something must be done upon quite a ditferent plan, and that the questions must be left out altogether. I consulted Dr. Paterson, who heartily entered into my views ; we had a meeting at the Bible House, and concluded to begin the business immediately. This memorable committee, at least it will be so to us, consisted of S. Grellet, Dr. Paterson, W" alter Venning, and his brother John, W, Swan, and me. We literally worked at it night and day, so that in rather more than two weeks we had it all ready to lay before the Emperor, who was so delighted with it, that he imme- diately ordered eight thousand roubles to be paid for the cost of one edition. This measure has opened the way for the spread of I lie schools every where. I have got two copies of the modern Greek Testament in order to form a set of Lessons for the Grecian L4ands, if way should open for it. I do not know whether the whole Bible is translated into modern Greek. I wish thou wouldst call on Dr. Steinkopff, give my dear love to him, and tell liim 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 7 \vhat we have deen doing ; the friends of tlie Bible cause here say, that never since the institution of the Bible Society, has any thing taken place more likely to promote their great work. I wish our committee was rich enough to print the Lessons in all the languages of the Continent. "VYc have received a kind message, tlirough the Danish Ambassador, fi-om the Queen of Denmark, acknowledging the receipt of our letter, and informing us that they were nov/ engaged in jiromoting schools upon our plan, wherever it was practicable." "Second Month ^"bth. — We went to Count Lieven's to tea, to meet the Baron de Stackleberg, and were exceedingly glad to become acquainted with this excellent man. Diuing two years lie was engaged in travelhng on foot, visiting pious persons in Switzerland and Germany, and lodging at then houses for some weeks at a time; he resides at Eevel in Esthonia, and is to return home to-morrow. He related aii interesting anecdote of a young person who came under liis notice several years since. Before his views became decidedly rehgious, he wished to see a beginning made towards the emancipation of the peasants; with these feelings he placed one of his own peasants under the care of a schoolmaster, with directions that if the young man's conduct appeared to deserve it, he should have his freedom at the age of twenty-five. This proved to be the case, and the proposed boon was granted ; on returning from his journey the Baron found that the young man had not only prospered in liis outward concerns, but had become a really serious character. He is nov/ tlie confi- dential friend of his former master, and assists him in all liis pious and benevolent undertakings. The Baron gives a very good ■account of the disposition of the peasants in his ov.n neighbour- liood. After he had become serious, lie proposed to them that if instead of spending tlie first-day afternoon in drinking and iit amusement, they would come to hin^, he would read to them in the Holy Scriptures. This proposition was gladly accepted, and his congregation soon filled two rooms in his house, and increaseci so that he v»as oblio'cd to remove the v'ace cf meeting to a Inrgit stable, Tlic people on mo from all (iMarters and some of them from 8 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. ^twenty versts distance. This good man was much struck with the want of education among the peojole. He and three or four persons of like sentiments to his own, have united in raising a subscription to build a school room, and have formed an establish- ment for training masters. Second Month 2Qi/i. — Baron Stackleberg came in, and I gave hhn the ' Thoughts/ the ' Brief Remarks/ and several Tracts. We had some mteresting conversation and parted in much christian affection. W. Swan sent us the rest of the Lessons, and we put in the heads. This great work is now completed, and we took it ourselves to Papof's house. 2Sih. — Tliis is the last day of their carnival, and gi'eat crowds of people are on the ice mounds, where they are gliding down in sledges, and all sorts of amusements are going forward. TAird Month \8t, — Stephen and I went to Papofs, by appoint- ment, and had a very agreeable conference \vith him. He says that the last set of the Lessons is sanctioned, and sent to the Metropolitan to be translated under his superintendence, as the text from the Old Testament does not yet exist in the common Euss. The Emperor has commanded it to be done without loss of time. We urged the printing of the Gospel Lessons also without delay. Papof says that the extracts from my journal about Finland have been laid before the Emperor. We find also that they have something in agitation on the subject of schools, but he did not say what. It is, however, clear to me, that it is of the utmost consequence to encoui'age free societies of individuals, who will act disinterestedly, and from motives of pure benevolence; they should be bound to report, at fixed times, the amount of subscrip- tions received, the manner in which they have been apphed, and the good done." William Allen prepared a paper, which was forwarded to the Emperor, " On the Advantages lihely to result from the Union of Individuals in Works of Pure Benevolence." The sound and comprehensive views expressed in it met with a ready reception. In alluding to the benefits of education and scriptural instruction, he says — ^g]^9.1 OF WILLIAM ALLEK. 9 " When it is considered what a powerful and beneficial influence the higher and middle ranks of society may exert, in forming the mmds and characters of the poorest class of the community to morality and virtue, tlie subject assumes a high degree of importance. We all know the power of early impressions, and the association of ideas. Let these be universally made in favour of reli"-ion; let the poor be trained to habits of order, of subordination, of respect for their superiors, of reverence for their Government ; let them be taught that it is their duty to exercise benevolence to their fellow creatures, to observe decency in their manners, and cleanliness in their persons, they will then rise in the scale of physical and intellectual power, and a Government possessing such a population will become doubly strong. One of the most painful duties of Government is the coercion of the vicious, but an attention to the moral and religious education of the poor, would go far towards the prevention of crime. It would not only lessen the care of the rulers in this respect, but it would obviate the necessity of many of those charitable institutions now kept up at so great an expense, for the reception of those whom society had too long neglected, and who, at last, became a permanent burden upon it." "Third Month %nd. — We went again to see the military schools, where we met Count Severs and Dr. Paterson. At the great school for the guards there were two hundred and fifty present, and they continue to make rapid progress. The order maintained in it is beautiful. I find that the Lessons which were here, have been revised by the censor, and most of them taken away. Thus it appears that the hint which I gave on our first visit, was immediately attended to, and that our coming to Petersburg was just in the right time to have the Lessons from the Holy Scriptures substituted throughout this vast empire, in the place of those from the Prench writers. Surely this looks hke something providential, and ought to be a comfort to us. I called at Sir James Wylie's, where I was informed, that the evening before, I had been elected an honorary member of the Imperial Academy of Sciences. 10 LIFE A^■D COTlllESPONDENCE [1819. Third Month ^th. — Went to Dr. Patersou, and consulted him about a kabitka, &c. He strongly advises us to visit the Island of Scio, as there is a considerable number of very interesting persons there. I spent about an hour with him and his amiable wife. 'oth. — We went to see Senator HabHtz, and, as usual, met -with a cordial reception, though it was accompanied with a gentle rebuke for not having called sooner. He seems very much to regret our departure before we see a committee formed for the schools, but we explained to him how we were situated, and gave our opinion as to the present state of this affair. We took leave of this excellent man, who seemed affected at parting v^ith us, and embraced us warmly. We then went to the kabitka market, and purchased one. John Sobieski is engaged for us as a servant. Qth. — We had an interesting parting visit to Count Lieven, who is going to Dorpat. He was very tender and affectionate. In the evening I wrote a letter to James Heard, the young man educated as a school-master for the peasants on Count Romanzof^s estate ; then went to Paul Pesarovius, and spent an hour or two with him and his wife in religious conversation. Stephen opened the subject of prayer to them very clearly. 1th. — We received a note from Papof, stating that the Emperor desired to see us, and requesting that we would not depart untd the interview had taken place. W. Venning came in, full of liopes that the prison and school plans will both be adopted. 8i!/i. — We called upon a number of persons to-day, and began the business of taking leave. We had much interesting con- versation with the military governor, Milorodovitch. He enters warmly into the prison plan. We then called on the minister of the interior, Karadavelof. He is to give us a letter addressed to the postmasters, which will prevent our being stopped for want of horses. We shall also be furnished by the Government with letters of recommendation to all the governors of provinces, &c. on our way. %th. — We set off between eight and nine to Prince Alexander Galitzin's : — met Papof there, as usual. I find that when the extract from my journal was laid before the Emperor, he was 1329.1 ^*l'' WILLIAM ALLEN. 11 particularly struck with the little representation of the man with the bell over his head. The information Papof gave me on this subject was very pleasant. He says that the Emperor has issued orders which will rectify several of these things. The Prince expressed regret at our determination to go so soon, and wished us to stay till spring, as there was much good to be done ; he told us the Emperor had been tallcing to him about it, and he desired us to seek by prayer to know whether it was indeed right for us to o-o. Papof joined him in pressing it. We explained to them that we believed the time was now come for us to proceed, and they therefore ceased. We went to the Nevski Monastery to take leave of the Metropolitan -and Philaret. The former was out, but we met with Philaret. We found that he had received the Scripture Lessons which we had prepared, and was arranging them in Russ. He expressed how thankful he felt that we had been sent here to put them on that good work, and he proposed that after the Lessons were printed, an edition in the form of a little pamphlet should be published, for the use of schools, on the conuuon plan, and for distribution throughout Russia. On taking leave of us, he said that this was probably the last time we should see each other in tliis world, but he gave us his parting benedic- tion, and trusted the Lord would bless his own work in our hands. Third Month \^th. — We went to Venning's and met the military governor, Milorodovitch. He brought with him Lieu- tenant-General Count de Witt, son of the Countess Potozka. This is an interesting young man, and he gave us valuable information: he is stationed near Odessa, and has the command of a great umnber of troops in the neighbourhood of his vast estates. He says that our school plan is fully established among the soldiers there, and that ten thousand are under tuition. He gives us a [)ressing invitation to visit him when we go to Odessa. We went to Count Romanzof's to dinner, and met with Captain Kreungestein, who made the voyage round the world. We also met with the author of tlie History of Russia, Karamsin, with the president of the Society of Arts, Alexis Olenin. The Count said he was much pleased with the 'Thoughts" and ^Brief Remarks,' and that he had found much ' unction" in them. 12 LIFE A24D CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Third Month Wth. — I see that the cause of education still meets with opposition from some quarters^ and amongst different classes, but there are enlarged minds who can take a comprehensive view of things, and who are convinced, that in the dispensations of Divine Providence, knowledge is the means of extending civilization, and that the great truths contained in the Holy Scriptures, can only be generally diffused among the people, by teaching them to read. The Emperor, we are informed, is among this number, and his actions shew it. The weather is very cold, but the sky is quite clear. I noticed, to-daj^, an appearance which I have never seen in England : in the sunbeams were innumerable little sparkling particles, arising, probably, from the water deposited by the air, being, in this intense cold, immediately formed into minute spiculse of ice. We went to the great public library, where we met, by appointment, Alexis Olenin, president of the Society of Arts. We saw the fragment of a M.S. of part of Paul's Epistle to the Galatians, supposed to be of the third century ; it was on a small sheet of parchment, the upper edge was partly decayed, and looked as if it had been burnt. The letters were in the very old Greek character, and very large. The parchment was eaten through in many places, just where the ink had been. There were other manuscripts of the fourth and fifth century, all on vellum. We noticed in the oldest of them, that the pages were divided into two columns, and there was sometimes not more than a word or two in a line, as they never divided a word. The theological department contains about forty thousand volumes. They have comparatively few English works of this class. We dined at Dr. Paterson's, and met J. and AV. Venning, and W. Swan. In the evening we had a great deal of religious conversation. The part which Swan took in it endeared him still farther to us. In the evening we called upon Dr. Pinkerton's wife and family. 13/^/i. — Lord Cathcart advised me, in case of accident, to be provided with a document from him, whi(;h he will order to be made out. 14^/i. — We went over to Daniel Wheeler's, after breakfast, and had a satisfactory meeting, in which dear Stephen spoke in ministry, and was also engaged in prayer. We staid till the after- Tg-j^g-j OF UlLLI.Ur ALLEX. 13 noon, unci took an affectionate leave of the family. Papof had kindlv sent a note to us iu tlie, nioniing, to inform ns that the Emperor Avould see us at eight o'clock this evening, and requesting us to call upon him at seven. He said he had sent us notice before Ave went to meeting, in order to ' set our minds at liberty." This is just like himself. We accordingly v;ent to him at the appointed time, when he received us in his usual sweet manner. He told us that the Prince had mentioned us to the Empress Ehzabeth, the wife of the Emperor, and that she would see us to- morrow at twelve o'clock. She remarked to the Prince, that as we were diffident, and did not like to push ourselves forward, she thought it right to open the way, and said, that as Ave had been with the Emperor and her mother, she would also, if wc desired it, o-ive us an opportunity of seeing her. ^Ye thankfully accepted this offer, and may humbly say it is the Lord's doing. Papof sent his courier with us to the palace, and we were shewn into the same room where we had been before. 1 could but think, that from its simplicity, it might be an excellent pattern for manv members of our Society. The Emperor came in with a smilino: countenance, and took us both bv the hand at once. He stood talking a few minutes, and then seated us, as on the former occasion. Mv mind was filled with a sense of divine good as vre wvdked up the stairs, and the canopy of heaveidy love was over us all the time. The conversation went on without restraint, as among familiar friends; at first it was general, upon serious subjects, and particularly about our departure. On his expressing his wish to keep us longer, Stephen explained the nature of our feelings, stating that if it were our Divine Master's will that we should go forward, we could not do any good by staying. Th.e Emperor understood this, and though it was ob\ious that he would have been glad if we had felt at liberty to have remained, yet he encouraged us to attend to our convictions of dutv. The discourse then turned upon the new set of Lessons, Avliich we had prepared for the schools on the British system in Piussia ; he said they were just what v.as wanted, that he had been anxious to ditl'use light and knowledge among the people, by the establislimeut of 14 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. scliools upon our plan, throughout liis army, and he expressed liis thankfulness that ' the Divine Spirit' (those were his words) had sent us here, just at the critical time, to make this system a grand engine to imprint the great truths of revealed religion upon the minds of milUons. We put in a word for the poor girls, who are universally neglected here, that is, the very poorest class, and the Emperor said that his mother had told him what we had said to her upon this subject, that he certainly would attend to it, and that, yesterday, he had given orders for six scliools for guls to be founded. He expressed his desire to have a school society estabhshed like the Bible Society, but earnestly wished that a member of our religious society, interested in this subject, as well as in that of prisons and the Bible cause, would come to reside in Petersburg for some time, saying that he would receive such an one "uith open arms. I had reason to understand what he meant, but my path is straight forward. The conversation now turned upon Daniel Wlieeler, The Emperor expressed himself much satisfied with what had been done, and said that he thought there was a change for the better in the village of Okta, where Daniel resides, since he had been there. We spoke of the disposition of lands, and the importance of endeavouring to form a middle class, so much wanted in Russia. We then had some talk about Eobert Owen and his plans, which I think was introduced in consequence of his asking what I thought of the cotton works at Alexandroski, under the protection of the Empress Mother; he seemed very much interested as I gave him the whole history of Lanark, and my reasons for having any thing to do with it ; and he told me that he thought I ought not to withdraw. He said he had read a httle of Robert Owen's plans, and soon saw to what they would tend, and that his opinion of them was precisely the same as om-'s. I related to him the circumstances of our last visit to Lanark, and gave him the only copy I had left of the Reply, also the 'Thoughts^ and 'Brief Remarks,' with which he seemed quite pleased, and put them into his breast pocket. He now told us how early he had been favoured with the touches of divine love in his mind, though he did not know from v/hence they came, and was sur- rounded by persons entirely ignorant of these things; that lit 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN, 15 remembered crying wlicu he was obliged to repeat forms of prayer, but that he and his brotli(?r Constantine, with whom lie slept, used to pray extempore and had comfort in it ; he said, that, as he grew up, these tender impressions were very much dissipated, the Empress Catherine, not being a religious character but a ' Philosophe,' put him under the care of La Hari)e, a very able tutor, but imbued with Trench principles, and here he gave us n most interesting history of himself. It was not till the year IS]. 2, that he had read the Bible, but as soon as he had read a little, he was eager to read more, and, he added, ' I devoured it / he found that it bore witness to what he had felt before of the operation of the Holy Spirit in his own mind, and he then kne\v wdiat it was. The conversation next turned upon peace, and we understood, from what the Emperor said, that one reason for his keeping so large an army is, that when the peasants who are slaves become soldiers, and afterwards receive rheir discharge ivom tlie army, they are free men. He is discharging great numbers, and taking others in their place, and one great object of establishing schools in the^'my is to prepare these men for freedom. We had some conversation on the importance of every one attending strictly to what was manifested as a duty to Jiim in particular, and what was positively required of one, might not be of anotlier, &c. By this time it was getting near ten o'clock, when the Emperor said that he wished us to sit a little in silence as before, for the Great Master had promised to be with the two and the tlu-ee. Ho observed that, even when we were separated, w^e might feel one another near in a spiritual union — that space related only to what was corporeal, not to spirits. This was a solemn moment, the evidence of the divine overshadowing was clear, strong and indis- ])utable, and the Emperor, I was sure, felt it to be so ; it was like sitting in heavenly places in Clirist Jesus. After some time, Stephen spoke most acceptably, and the Emperor, I doubt not, will long remember his communication. I needed no other evidence than my own feelings to be assured that he was much affected. I beheved it right for me to offer up a suppHcation, but so awful did it appear that I had great difficulty in giving way; at last however I rose, turned round, a!ul knelt down ; the 16 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Emperor came to the sofa and knelt clown by me^ and now strength was given me beyond what I had ever felt before^ and the precious power accompanied the words. When it was finished I paused a little, and then rose; he rose soon afterwards, and we sat a few minutes in silence, we then j)repared to take leave ; the Emperor was much affected and held us by the hand, — it was a solemn parting; he raised my hand to liis lips and kissed it. I was now anxious to be gone, and moved towards the door, and after taking leave of Stephen, the Emperor went hastily into another room. We returned to our lodgings with hearts full of divine peace; we both agreed that this one interview was worth all that we had suffered in coming here, and all the sacrifices we have made. It is marvellous to us how, from time to time, upon all important occasions, we are favoured \nth wisdom and strength bv our Great Master, just sufficient for the trial, though at other times we are often greatly depressed; the work is His^ and tlie praise is His alone!' In afterwards alluding to this, and the former interview, W. Alhai writes — » "The Lord's presence, which is the cro^vii of all, was richly with us, so that the unity and fellowship of the spirit in the bond of peace was felt, not only when conversing upon many subjects of the highest importance, but above all in the solemn pause which we had at the close of each of the conferences. The wine of the kingdom flowed from vessel to vessel, and the iJower of the Lord was magnified." *o" " Third Month \f>th. — Papof sent his courier with us to the palace. We found that the Empress had planned to receive us in her private apartments with her companion, tlie widow of an English clergyman, but by some mistake of the servants we were shown into the state rooms; after waiting a short time we were ushered into a large room where the Empress was standing. There is much mildness in her countenance, particularly about her eyes; slie received us very respectfully and said that from what the Emperor had told her, she wished to see some of our rehgious society, "We had a good deal of conversation with her upon J (^29.1 OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 17 serious subjects, which was highly satisfactory. I feel much lor her A-fter an interview of about three quarters of an hour, we respectfully withdrew; there was no one present but oiu'selves, her attendants being in waiting in the next room. MVe went to dine at John Yenning' s, where the Prince and Papof kindly came to meet us for the last time ; there was no other company except Dr. Paterson and the Empress's companion. This was a very sociable, agreeable visit. T/drd Month 16///. — We called at the Bible house to take leave of Dr. Paterson and his wife, and W. Swan. We went thence to Prince xUexander GaUtzhi's, v/here we met him and dear Papof, and had our final parting opportunity; we had a great deal of free conversation, vdth the openness of christian frioids. The Prince told us the steps of his progress in rehgion, and how he was brought to see the emptiness of mere forms, and the inestimable value of vital Christianity. He said the Emperor and he had been brouo-ht up as playfellows together, and Avere exposed to the same disadvantages, in being surrounded with irreligious persons, and he told us that the Emperor took the Bible with him in the campaign of 1S12, and read in it every day, except upon extraordinary occasions, and then he read m.ore afterwards. He gave us many interesting details about the Holy Alliance, and the astonislnnent of the Emperor's own com-t when they heard the decree read. Many conjectures Avere formed respecting it, but fcAv were prepared to understand the Emperor's real design. Before Ave parted Ave had a solemn religious opportunity, in Avhich Stephen AA-as favoui'ed in prayer; I felt much: Ave then took a solemn and affectionate leave in the flowings of christian love. It appears that the Greek Bishop Philaret Avas pleased at the parting intervicAV Avhicli Ave had Avith him; he sent us a kind message through the Prince or Papof, expressing a desire that He, Avho met Avith the tAvo disciples by the way as they went to Emmaus, might be Avith us; the Metropolitan also sent us a very kind message, regretting that he Avas absent Avhcn Ave called at the Monaster^^ We Avent next to the palace, to take leave of Sir James ^\ ylie, Avho has uniformly treated us Avith the greatest respect, and even aiTection. He longed to keep me here, and said everything to AOL. II. c IS LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. induce me to bring my daughter ovei';, and settle here for a time, stating Iiow much more good I might do here than in any other j)lace in the vrorld ; but I still reverted to matters of duty and had a little serious conversation with him, ^vhich seemed to make an impression, and he parted with me with much tenderness. His secretary told me that my diploma from the Academy was sent to our lodgings. We then made some more calls, and having packed up our things and cleared out of the lodgings, we went to the Vennings' to dinner. These dear friends are afl'ectionately attached to us, and have done every thing for us that kindness could suggest. They have supplied us with an ample store of provisions, have fitted up pockets to the side of the kabitka, and have attended to the packing of it themselves. Daniel Wheeler dined with us — we all felt much at this being our last interview; Walter Venning was very low and silent. Lord Cathcart called, and brought the document, stating that I Avas a British subject; he also gave us a letter to put us nndcr the special care of the British Miuister at Constantinople, and has manifested the greatest kindness towards us ; indeed, every thing that could be thought of to open our way, has been done. The Prince has furnished us A\ith letters to all the governors of provinces during the v.'hole of our route, recommendhig us as persons Avell known to the Emperor ; and the i\Iinister of the Interior has sent us a paper contaiuing an imperative order for horses, in case of any difficulty. Thus our gracious Master is fulfilling his promise to us, when, in a degree of faith, we leaned upon his arm to enter upon an untrodden path ; it is all his doing, for we feel that without him a\c have no strength. We retired into the little room, where we have so often enjoyed a social liour, and after we had taken coffee, and conversed for some time, I felt the extendings of divine love so strongly towards our host and his family, that I longed for us to settle down in silence. At length Stephen gave John Venning a hint, and conversation ceased ; a precious covering was immediately extended over us, and there was a silence which, I believe, was iiAthy all; I Avas thankful on every account, that our blessed Lord condescended, in so signal a manner, to own ]\b poor servants, novv' on the eve of their departure. Stephen delivered o precious couunuiiicatiou, Avlnch deejily affected ■J 819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 19 both John and WaUer. Daniel Wheeler llieii said a few words. I felt the spirit of supplication, but was afraid, and longed that I might be permitted to get rid of my burden some other way, but it would not do ; I therefore knelt down, and was fervently eno-ao-ed in prayer for these my endeared friends ; I felt the power of the Holy Spirit accompany the words, and all were tendered and affected. We then took leave, and put on our schouhs, which consist of wolf-skins with the fur inwards and cloth without. We have our luggage stowed in the bottom of the kabitka, as in the hold of a vessel, and upon it is laid a horse-hak mattress, upon which we are stretched as in a bed, with pillows under our heads. After wrapping our schoubs close about us, we spread our cloaks, &c. over us, a]id John Venning had kindly provided a double mat, which we can let down to keep out the snow and the cold. Dr. Paterson came to see us off, and the dear Vennings kept Avith us till the last. We took an affectionate leave of all, and then set off with three horses ; our man Sobiesky sits by the driver at the foot of the vehicle. It was about six o'clock when we started, and in passing through Petersburg I felt quite peaceful. We are kindly fm-nished by D'Junkovsky with a list of all the stations to Catherinslaf, and what we are to pay."" The travellers proceeded through the night, and reached Novogorod the following evening. The country is described as uniformly flat, and presenting a very monotonous aspect; it is much covered with pine and birch trees, the bark of the latter is used by the peasants to make shoes, and when peeled in long nari-ow strips it makes the Russian matting. The inn at Novo- gorod did not afford beds, and the landlord observed rather surlily that the llussian lords brought their own bedding : however, they procured two rooms, and W. Allen says — " My bed \vas my wolf-skin ; my mjnd was peaceful ojul easy, and I soon went to sleep." The governor was absent, but in consequence of tlic letters of introduction, arrangements were made for them to visit the c 2 20 LIFE AND COnilESPONDENCE [1819. public institutions, some of which, especially the fouudling hospital and the prison, were in a very unsatisfactory state, and much needed attention. William Allen says — " Many of the large houses are in a state of dilapidation, and the place has a miserable appearance; there are very few persons of property, and it seems that the poor are almost whoUy neglected. Third Month \Wi. — I have had a good night, and on waking tliis morning my mind was filled with the dear Saviour's peace. O, wonderful condescension to such an unworthy creature ! After visiting several institutions, Theodore PontsclxkofT accompanied us to our inn, and we had some interesting conversation with liim. He is a man of much information, and quite disposed to do all the good he can, but the difiiculties are immense. We gave him some of the Princess Mestchersky's Tracts, with which he was much pleased, and I wiU write to Pesarovius for more. We encouraged him to form a little tract association, and subscribed twenty-five roubles as a beginning ; he seems heartily disposed to follow it up. W^e have had multiplied proof in this country, of the baneful effects of ignorance, and of the mischief which society incurs from a neglect of the religious education of the poor. We learn that Novogorod was formerly a place of great trade. It is seated on a large river, which communicates with Lake Ladoga, and until the canal was cut to Moscow, goods for that city were sent here ; perhaps the loss of this channel of commerce, may be one cause of its present state of decay. 20//^. — We started from Novogorod about half-past nine o'clock, with three horses in our kabitka. There are many monasteries in all directions — tlie snow is very deep, and the course of the road is shown by branches of pine stuck in at certain distances. The houses are universally made of logs, with the roof overhanging several yards, and the ends pointing towards the road. We passed several miserable villages." It seems the usual practice in travelling in Russia, to go forward night and day, only stopping at the stations to change horses, and occasionally to take some refreshment. The kabitkas. j^y^g 1 OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 21 (vvliicli are a land of slecIgC;) are prepared with mattresses and leathern pillows, on which persons may lie down, ])ut the inequalities in the snow render sleep very \incertain. In a letter to his daughter, \Villiam Allen thus describes part of this night's journey ; — "We approach the hills of Waldi, which continue for near thirty miles ; though not high they are really formidable from the snow and ice. Notwithstanding our -wings on each side, AA'hich gave us a si^read of al^out fom* yards, we were nearly overturned two or tlu'ee times; it is true wc had not far to fall, but if we had been completely turned over, the weight of our luggage upon us would have squeezed us a little. The single horse sledges, which pass in oTcat numbers between Petersburg and Moscow, are continually deepening a hole when it is once made. One driver has the care of two or three of these sledges; some of the holes were above four feet deep, and we often plumped in without any warning. I have since been informed, that it is only owing to the very extraordinary mildness of this winter that they are not much deeper, and that in the usual winters they are soinetimes ten or twelve feet in depth, so that a kabitka and horses at the bottom of one of these holes is, for a moment, completely hid from one that is immediatelv following. AYe must therefore consider ourselves as vei'v well off, thougli we had not proceeded further tlian about two versts from the station before \xe were completely stuck, and were obHged to get out; it Avas very cold, and the snow, Avhich had been partly melted by the sun in the day, was so slippery, that what Avith my mufflings and my clumsy fur boots, I could scarcely stand, but Sobiesky Avas kindly attentive to me; Ave all init our shoulders to the kabitka to assist the horses in 2:etting it out, but Ave had not proceeded far before avc had the same ceremony to perform over agahi, and the difficulties Avere so nnich increased that, after going about five vei'sts, avc Avere glad to creep into our nests, put doAMi the mat, and he quietly till break of day, for it would have been dang{.'rous to e;o on. '\Vlicn it Avas haht AA-e found that one of our sliafts Avas broken : it Avas tied no, Iioav- ever, just to enable us to get to a pliice Avhere another could be 22 LIFE AND COKRESPOxVDENCE [1819. procnredj and tlie Avhole cost of our repairs^ together with a handsome remuneration to two peasants^ who came a mile and a half to our assistance, was not more than about tlu-ee sliiUings sterhng. On approaching Tver we saw a very grand monastery, with a number of domes of deep blue ; the middle dome was covered with golden stars, and aU of them were surmounted with crosses. We entered the town over a frozen river, and put up at the house of an Italian, but here again we found they had no beds; they however brought me some pillows, and as I had been in my clothes for six nights running, I got out my blanket and sheet, made up a bed of my schoub, and slept pretty comfortably." "Third Month 2,3rd. — We walked to the house of the governor, who is brother to the Princess Mestchersky; he was from home, but we met with the Princess, and were mutually glad to see each other once more. We had a good deal of conversation, and laid our plans for a girls' school at Petersburg. She desires me to write immediately for a school-mistress, and says that she will take her into her own family. The Princess gives a very discouraging account of Tver. She sent for the person to whom Prince Galitzin's letter is addressed, and he was very civil, and offered to show us every thing. It has been a portion of our duty here, as in other places, to visit and enter into feeling with the afflicted, and with the out-casts of society, by wliich our spiiits have been much depressed ; our service leads us to dungeons as well as to palaces, and we feel the force of those words of the apostle, ' We are debtors to aU men !' It is a consolation, however, to know that this trial of our feehngs is not in vain, and that our representations to the proper authorities have proved the means of alleviating much human misery. In the afternoon we visited two Arclrimandrites, who have the charge of two seminaries for young men training for priests ; we found them Ijoth persons of liberal sentiments ; they asked us some questions as to the number of sacraments we admitted, which gave us an opportunity of explaining our views of the spirituality of the gospel dispensation. There was much mildness ill dieii' manners, and they seemed pleased with the interview. 1319.] 01 ■>V1I,L1A.M ALLEX. 23 AVc SDent the evening wiilii tlie Princess Mestclierskyj am] were iiih-odaced to licr father, who seemed quite pleased to see us. We had a "■ood deal of religious conversation, which was satisfactory. Third Month 'iWi. — Tver is a handsome town upon the Wolga, at the confluence of three rivers. Tiie houses in the principal streets are brick, plaistered, though many of them in other parts are of logs. We went with tlie Procurator to tlie house of his mother-iii-lau, who received us sqx-^ kiiully ; there were several of her family and other persons present, some of ~*v]iom seem to be interesting characters. Vfc endeavoured to engage them io foi'm a ladies' committee, but the thing was quite new to them, and tlic old lady thought they had enough to do in their families ; we then asked if they were never in the habit of relieving cases of human suiTer- ing, and being answered in the affirmative, we pointed out tlic advantages, on every account, of acting in concert, and particularly as it A\-ould tend to check imposture and enable tlicm to do far more good. Stephen then gave them an admirable lecture on the subject, and we laid before them, in strong colours, tlic deplorable state of the poor dying babes at the fouudHng. (It appears that last year two hundred and eighty-three were admitted, and two hundred and forty-eight died) . The Procurator's wife is a feeling, tender woman, and I saw the matter sank deep with her, as well as \rith her sister Olga, who sat next to me. Tliey seemed resolved to set about the v/ork, but did not knovr how to becin, and I told them that I had promised the Princess JMestchersky to send her a copy of an organised plan, for the formation of a societv. After this very satisfactory visit we went to our inn to pack up, and in the afternoon started for Moscow, A\herc we arrived the following day. The uni where we stopped is just opposite the Kremlin." During his stay in this city, William Allen sketclicd out the proposed "Plan,^' and forwarded it to the Princess. It was headed, " Society for bettering the condition and improving the morals of the poor at Tver," and in Us details a clear statement was 24 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. given of the duties to he performed, and tlic mode of proceed- ing with the business. The leading objects to which the atten- tion of the committee was directed, were — To rcheve cases of pecuhar distress ; to visit female prisoners ; and the institu- tion for foundlings ; to promote schools for poor girls ; and find out useful employment for females. In the general remarks, he observes — " In the infancy of the society, care should be taken not to embrace too much, lest the members should be discouraged, but in proportion as experience is gained, and the confidence of the public secured, to go on as the funds increase, to extend the benefits of the institution." ^' Third Montli '■l>ith. — S. Stansficld, who is here, joined us at divine worship, when my spirit was sweetly refreshed, though no words were uttered. '^Wi. — The snow is thawing fast ; we set off from Petersburg just at the right time, and it noio appears that ^^T had not a day to spare. We have been out this morning to dehver our letters of introduction — first to the military governor, then to the civil governor, and afterwards to the general \\\\o is at the head of the police. We saw them all, and felt the value of these documents, — without them we could have done little or nothing. Moscow contains from two hundred and eighty to three hundred thousand inhabitants ; the houses are veiy ii'regularly built, large and small being all mixed together. We noticed the ruins of many which had been burnt in 1812. The Kremhn stands on rising ground, and is in the heart of the city. It contains the Imperial Palace and the Arsenal, and consists of a number of streets and public buildings, the whole surrounded by a wall of considerable height. Moscow is divided into tv/enty districts, and there are twenty siesgas, or prisons of the police, Avhich are some- what like our watch-houses in England. Soon after our return to the inn, Abreskoif came from the master of the police to ofl'er his services to go with us to the prisons ; he wished very much to turn us aside fi'ora visiting the siesgas, but it is pretty plain, as he acknowledged, that they are badly arranged, and we shaU neglect our duty if we do not see them/' ]^yj[(J J OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 25 Several of the following days were devoted to the iuspectioa of the prisons, and in reference to them, William Allen says — " AVitli the exception of the siesgas, Avliich are pretty much the same every where, we found them in a better state than we expected. At the great prison, a considerable degree of attention seemed to be paid to cleanliness. The hospital rooms were in excellent order, and we were much pleased to see a number of ^e\Y Testaments, and several of the tracts translated by the Princess Mestchersky. This prison was built after the visit of John Howard, who sug- gested some improvements, which were subsequently adopted. Most of the prisoners in the siesgas were committed for drunken- ness, which seems to be a crying sin among the poorer classes, and lying and steahng are so perfectly natural that they appear scarcely to consider them as crimes. We dined at J. Rowand's, and met an English merchant who has resided in this country a number of years, and who says that, notwithstanding the present depraved state of morals, he has witnessed a striking improvement in his time ; some of the com- pany present thought the adoption of our school plan the most likely measure to benefit Russia." "Fourth Mouth \st. — A young officer, who was sent by the Com- mandant, accompanied us to the militai-y hospital, Avhere the utmost attention seems to be paid not only to cleanhness, but even to neatness. We next proceeded to the military school, where there were four hundred and ninety-four children. It is only three days since they began upon our plan, and there is but one young man who knows anytliing of its operations ; he was sent to Kiotf, in the South of Russia, to learn the system; he only remained there two weeks, and yet all the children were brought into order. The master gives the command with a whistle, and the boys form theii- reading drafts very regularly and well. This establishment is so interesting that I must visit it again. "Zncl. — Our friend Lc Croix called upon us, and we went to a magnificent establishment like a palace. Its name signifies a house for the poor and strangers ; it was founded and endowed by a single individual, Count Sclieremetofl', one of the richest 26 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. noblemen in Russia, who gave two millions, five liundred thousand roubles for this object, and the revenues arising for ever from eight thousand four hundred and forty-fom^ peasants, who each pay a certain sum annually. The regulations and sanction bear date, 1803; the count died in 1809, and the house, which took some years in building, was opened m 1810. It is destined to lodge, board, and mahitain entirely, one hundred indigent persons, of both sexes, of free condition, and good morals and character ; one half of them to consist of persons of a very advanced age, who are destitute, and the other half, those who are maimed or afflicted with incurable diseases. The second part consists of an Iiospital, into which fifty poor persons, of both sexes and aU conditions, with diseases not deemed incurable, are to be received and taken j care of, gratis. The third part of the charity consists of an annual distribution of twenty thousand roubles to poor families out of the house, who may be judged worthy of it ; and aU this endowed in perpetuity by one individual. Everything about the house is in a princely style, and it seems impossible that the neatness < and cleanliness of the establishment tlu-oughout could be exceeded. The charity is not restricted to country or reUgion, for we saw natives of Sweden and other countries settled in this comfortable asylum. AU are at free liberty to exercise their own rehgion, and though there is a large magnificent chapel for the Greek church in the house, none but the members of that church are required to ^ attend. This liberality might put the high chm-ch of England to the blush. Amongst the inmates was a priest of very interesting appearance; ■ he was eighty-two years of age, and blind, he e\dnced much tender- ness and sensibility, and was affected with a few words wliich Stephen addressed to liim. The old people were very clean in their persons, and seemed as comfortable as outward circumstances ; could make them. j It appears that there are no poor-houses here, except such as have been established by private individuals, and in some of this class which we visited, the poor people seemed well attended to, and happy. Strong liquors are prohibited, and if the effects of them were discovered upon any, they would be turned out of the house. 1819.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 'Zl Fourth Month Srd. — We attended a meeting of tlie Bible Society, and thougli we could not understand their language, yet it was cheering to see persons, strangers to us, engaged in a work so near our hearts. We formed some fresh acquaintances and had a good deal of satisfactory conversation, in which much liberality of sentiment was evinced. In conversing with the Georgian Archbishop, we explained to him that one of our objects in this journey, was to visit pious persons of different nations and different creeds, and to strengthen and encoiu'age that which was good in any. He said that we ought to go to Georgia, for we should find some there like the salt of the earth, for whose sake the nations were not destroyed. Stephen explained to lum the nature of our movements, and that though we felt love to that seed wherever scattered, yet our course must be du'ected by an impression of duty. It appeared by the report to-day, that the Bibles in Hebrew had been distributed among the Jews in Poland, and were read in some of their synagogues. The Directeur de Poste, Boulgakoff, mentioned that first two, and afterwards tliree had been convinced of the truths of Christianity, and it appears that some of the Muphti, in Tartary, had sent a subscription to the Bible Society, and had become members. During the last two months there have been sold, in Moscow, copies of the Sacred Scriptures to the amount of about eight hundred roubles per month. The present house and premises were given by the Emperor to the Bible Society, and fitted up at his expense. 4Oth. — We left Moscow in our britzka soon after nine, with four horses abreast; as our carriage has no springs we were a good deal shaken, but though fatigued with jolting, I was favoui-ed with secret support in my mind. The first part of the road is hniy, and we had not travelled many miles before our swing seat broke down. The country is open, and contains but few trees; the soil is loam, and as the roads are much cut up on the melting of the snow, and afterwards diied hard, it was Kke riding over pavement. In tliis day's journey we passed several rivers, some- times on a raft and sometimes driving through them by a ford. We reached Serpukoff, a large place about sixty-nine miles from Moscow, between one and two o'clock in the morning, but we could gain no admittance at the inn, nor make any one hear, though all the dogs in the neighboui'hood seemed roused. At last a baker came out of a house just by, and said he had a yard into which we were welcome to draw the carriage ; we gladly accepted this permission, and as he also supplied us with bread, hot water, and eggs, we made a good supper, and then got into our britzka wliich stood under cover. VOL. II. E 30 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. About five o'clock Sobieski roused us with the information that General Naschokinn, whom the mihtary governor of Moscow was very anxious that we should visit, and who resided about nine miles out of our way, had sent expresses for us in different directions, and that a messenger had arrived here to conduct us to the chateau. We were both very desirous to go forward, but as the governor of jMoscow had sent to inform the General that we were upon the road, we could not do otherwise than accept his kmdness. The General has the character of being a very benevolent man, and is very kind to his peasants or slaves. When we came into his extensive premises we saw^ the house at a distance in a beautiful situation, with a white flag flying above the dome i7t, honour of the guests, and as we approached, the music struck up. I was bad enough before, but this made me sick at heart. On our arrival we found a crowd of servants waiting, and the General received us most cordially. As he speaks French tolerably well, we lost no time in informing him that we v.ere a plain people, and loved simplicity, and we acquainted him \\\\\\ the objects of our journey, &:c. He treated us with the greatest kindness and respect, and provided us with very comfortable rooms, quite to ourselves. Though this rencontre was trying, yet it gave us some farther insight into the manner in which these seigneurs live. A¥e visited several of the peasants in their cottages, and found them very neat and comfortable; they all have horses and one or two cows, some more; they seemed much pleased with our visit and brought out their cream, bread, eggs, &c. We sat down and took a little with them, and found every thing very clean and good. One woman would not be satisfied without our accepting some of her fresh eggs. The General took us to see the hospital which he has established for his peasants, and we had great reason to be satisfied with it ; he keeps both a physician and an apothecary. Although he is very averse to any attempt to liberate the peasants, it is quite plain that he endeavours to act the part of a father to his own. We saw the children of his school, and specimens of their Avriting, which seemed exceedingly well done. They were questioned before us, and answered with great facility. We dined between two and three o'clock, and afterwards went to see a chalybeate 1819.] '^T^ AV[LLTAM ALLEX. 51 spring, to wliich there is a great resort of company in the season. It is situated in a beautiful valley, surrounded by woody hills, which form a kind of amphitheatre. A pint of the water contains little more than the fifth part of a grain of carbonate of iron, but yet we were told that great cures had been performed by it. On returning towards the house, we saw a group of chiklren, and the General employed, as we find he often is, in distributing cakes among them. We spent the evening in conversation, endeavouring to make it as instructive as possible ; and we think that some of his prejudices were removed. He seems to be a benevolent, well- meaning man ; nothing could have exceeded his kindness, even if w^e had been the greatest personages. I hope that good was done. We distributed some of the Princess Mestchersky's tracts, which they had not seen before, and Stephen, who is the Mercurius, explained to the General the object and the tendency of these pubhcations. MftJi Month Incl. — We took a cordial leave of our host, who kindly sent his own horses with us to Serpukoff. We reached Tula between nine and ten at night, much fatigued and exhausted. The country through which we passed appears to be well cultivated, but there are no fences whatever in the fields, and this is the case universally. 3rr/. — A fine morning; we went out to deliver our letters, and found the benefit of having been furnished, by Prince A. Gahtzin, with introductions to the governors of the provinces, as we had a specunen this morning of what we might expect if we had not been thus provided. Having learnt that the Governor was not in the city, we went to the house of his deputy, but were informed that he was at the tribunal ; thither we went, and being directed up stairs, entered a very long room where a great number of clerks were writing. There was a broad passage in the middle, and, on entering, we found several persons standing who could speak French. Coming in M'ith our hats on occasioned a general bustle, and some of the clerks began to hiss. We very civilly enquired of a person, dressed hke a gentleman, with an order at his InU ton-hole, if the Governor was there; but lie immediately asked, why we did not pull off our hats. We ga\e him our reasons, and assured him that E 2 52 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1S19. it was not from want of respect, but a matter of religious principle with us ; lie said we ought to respect the place, for there was the Emperor's picture. Stephen told him that the Emperor had per- mitted us to see liim with our hats on ; but one of them imme- diately said, he did not behave it ; to this Stephen made no reply. The place at the farther end of the room, where the Governor and others were sitting, was parted oif with glass windows ; we had by this time made our way to the door, where there was rather an elderly man \v\\o spoke French, and he w^as the only person \\dio showed us any thing hke kindness. When Stephen told him that we were of the Society of Eriends, called Quakers, this gen- tleman said that they were persons who, from principle, did not pull off their hats (from com-tesy), and smiling said, 'You are from Pennsylvania.' We at length prevailed upon them to take the letter into the inner room ; several went in and out, saying that we could not gain admittance without taking off our hats. After waiting some time, it appeared that the Governor being absent, his deputy Avas not willing to open the letter, though they did not before condescend to give this as a reason for the delay. We then sent it back with a message to the deputy governor, assuring liim that it was only a letter of introduction, and that he might safely open it, as we merely wanted permission from the lawful authority to visit their pubhc institutions. It was, however, retm-ned to us again ; and I then said that I had travelled in many countries, as well as ray friend, but had never been treated anywhere as we had been here. I desired only one more message might be taken in, and that was, whether we were to write to Petersburg, that we had brought a letter from Prince Alexander Galitzin, wdiich they refused to open. This produced some hesitation ; after waiting a short time longer we concluded to retmii to the inn, but as we turned to go away, the deputy governor came forward, and we had the privilege of speaking to him through an interpreter, for he cannot speak Erench. We respectfully explained to him our business ; w'e put the letter again into his hands, and he appointed us to meet him at liis own house at two o'clock. We then took leave, and went to the Archbishop Abraham, to whom the Prince had also given us a letter. Notwithstanding our hats, he received 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN-. 53 US very kindly, and arranged for our meeting him between four and five, when he would accompany us to the seminary for the children of their priests. About two o'clock we waited upon the depnty governor, who had opened llie letter : he was earnest to show us every attention, and arranged to go with us to-morrow to the different institutions. In the afternoon we again called upon the Archbishop, and went Avith liim to the seminary, in which many hundreds of the childi'cn of jmests are taught upon the usual method. Here we found the priest Orchalow and dehvered to him the letter from Philaret. I regretted very much that he could not speak French or English; he has a sweet countenance, and seems a sedate and deeply pious young man. There are thirteen hundred boys upon the list, but the whole number do not regularly attend ; there are besides five hundred more taught in different parts of the government. In passing through the rooms Stephen was fully employed in commu- nication with the person who accompanied us, and I have no doubt that many of those children, at a future day, ynll recollect the two poor Quakers, and be curious to know something more about them. The interview here was very satisfactory. I beheve they aU felt attached to us, and the Ai'chbishop, as well as the rest, took an affectionate leave of us. We returned to our lodmujs, with a conviction that this day's work will not be in vain. Fifi/^ Month Uh. — Tula is said to contain thirty thousand ijihabitants ; here are many hardware manufactories, and one for fire arms, which is the largest on the continent; it employs six thousand peasants of the crown. We were pressingly invited to see it, but, being warlike, we declined the proposal, as it would have been inconsistent with the objects of our journey. This city covers a great deal of ground. After breakfast the merchant, who is one of the proprietors of the inn, kindly lent us his carriage and a pair of horses to go our rounds; we first went to the Governor, who accompanied us in his drosky to their public institutions, but it was obvious they had every where been at work to sweep and brush. We fu'st came to the military school, where the house was clean and the boys looked healthy. They were receiving lessons on rehgion from a priest. 54 LIFE A^D CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Avho made them write sentences, and also take texts from the Sclavonian Bible and write them in common Russ. We could but highly commend and encourage this practice. There was a librar}', and a little collection of plulosophical instruments, which, as is usually the case, consists of an air pump and some of its apparatus, and an electrical machine." The foundling hospital, the military and town hospital, the prisons, and the gymnasium, were also visited, and though attention had recently been paid to the improvement of some of these institutions, yet in others there was an evident want of more inspection and oversight, but William Allen says — " I have not been able to hear of one public-spirited character in Tula." In reference to the gymnasium, he says — " We were very glad to find several copies of the new Sclavo- nian Testament among the scholars, who appeared to be reading them as a school book ; and we were still more glad to learn, that it was in consequence of a cii'cular order fi'om the university, so that I hope it is general. In the evening the Governor came to see us and was very civil, but as our conversation had to be through Sobieski, it was very hmited." The next morning the travellers proceeded towards Orel, which they reached the following afternoon. In speaking of part of their journey, William Allen observes — that the soil was very rich, that much of the land was cultivated for grain, and that there were many fruit trees. Generally, however, the country appeared open, with but few trees; and in one stage he writes — "This is a pretty country; the hills at a distance, and the scenery, except that there is a scarcity of trees in the prospect, reminds me of England. They appear to have a rich pasturage for cattle, and we have seen numbers of oxen, sheep, hogs, &c. They -jyig/l OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 55 liave a oreat m?.ny horses, and such is the fertility of the land and the quantity of it in proportion to the inhabitants, that the cost of keeping them must be a mere trifle. The windmills have six fliers, which are made of thin boards, instead of sail-cloth." On arriving at the station Vaunifskia, he says — "This place consists of a few miserable log houses, but the situation is picturesque and beautiful. The post-master was very civil, and has a nice family. We brought out our stores of bread and cheese, &c., and dined here. I superintended the boiling of some eggs, and we made a good dinner. He would not charge anvthing, but we gave him what we considered more than an equivalent ; we also gave him some of the Princess Mestchersky's Russian tracts, and did not fail to inform him where he might procure more. In some of the villages we pass through, the women are dressed in gay colom's, and far beyond what might be expected from the appearance of thcii- habitations. Many of them were collected before their cottages in little groups, singing. Fifth Month 1th. — Orel is beautifully situated on the sides of two hills; it has a great trade in corn, but there is miserable accommodation at the inn, — no civility or attendance of any kind, but Sobieski brushes about and does the best he can for us. Here we visited the institutions as usual, and I believe there is a great service in it. One of the teachers at the gymnasimn is an agreeable young man, speaks Prench, and is a member of the Bible Society, which he says is increasing. Many of the prisoners at the great prison were confined for want of passports ; they are often detained on this account for a very long time, while inquiry is made from province to province, and are in great danger of being neglected or forgotten. There is no bogadelney, nor coidd we find that any provision ^vas made for the poor, except by a venerable ecclesiastic, whom we \isited ; he is called Priest John, and though ninety years of age, walks about without any assistance but tliat of his lojio- cane. He has a benevolent countenance, and I could but love the good old ma)i. He lives rn a small house near one of their places of worship, i)v the side 56 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. of a yardj filtliy m the extreme. In and about tMs yard are several little hovels and holes, which he has crammed fuU of destitute poor. I think he has more than fifty of these lodgers, and he seems always contriving how he may make more holes and comers, in order to take in more; he rejects none, but all are welcome if he can but get them in. He conducted us into these places, and the poor people were eager to come to him for Ids blessing. The diit which the poor in Eussia are accustomed to, is beyond description. This man receives donations from various quarters, but a httle money goes a great way here. A person might have as much black bread as he could eat, for a penny sterhng per da}-, and it rarely if ever happens that any one is starved in Russia. The peasants are very charitable to one another. Priest John took an affectionate leave of us on our going away, putting my hand to his mouth and kissing it. I hear that he is universally beloved by all classes. We next went to take leave of the Governor, and had some agreeable conversation with him and his friends. In the evening, the young man whom we had met at the gymnasium came in. He expects that great good wiU result from those seminaries wliieh the Emperor has established upon such a gi'eat scale for the children of the priests, who are often very ignorant, and he also thinks it is of the utmost importance to adopt our school plan for the poor universally. I lent our Trench copy of the advantages of educating the poor, &c., to the commandant, the Baron de Korff, who intends to have it copied and sent back to me to-morrow morning. We left some of our tracts with him and the Governor, but om* stock is low. The Baron is a sensible and very clever man; many of his remarks shewed a well-informed mind, inchned to benevolence. Fi/i/i Month Sf/i. — We left Orel with peaceful minds, and proceeded through a rich, open country, towards our next point, Koursk. AVe travelled all this day and the next night, and reached Koursk about ten o^ clock the following morning. It is a large city, mostly composed of poor wooden houses, though several are brick, plaistered. The streets are mde and at right angles. We put up at a dirty house, but, however, got two chambers. If 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 57 we had not brought slicets and blankets, we must frequently have slept in our clothes. Fifth Month lOM. — The Governor was out of town, but we went by appointment to the deputy governor, who was super- abundantly civil. I often regret that they will make such a parade in showing us about, when a simple written order would do quite as well. We should often get on much better if we had not such a train attending upon us. We went first to the gymnasium, in which the district school is also held. This is one of the very best schools of the kind I have seen in Russia. The room for the philosophical instru- ments is better furnished than any we have met with before, and they had a set of wooden models of the mechanical powers in very good style. Their library contauis three thousand, six hundred, and fifteen volumes, and among them are good editions of the Latin classics. We found some valuable specimens of minerals, also some neat models of agricultural instruments, all which plainly showed that some person of mind had been at work here. The mih- tary hospital is ou the same excellent footing as usual, but the house of correction, and some of the other prisons, ai'e in a very unsatisfactory state. We were rather pleased with the master of the ]Dolice, and, at his request, went to take tea with liim ; his wife seems a tender-spirited woman, and Stephen had a good deal of conversation with her. AAlulst we were there a young man, one of the preceptors at the school, called; he came earnestly to entreat us to pay a visit to a seignem", who greatly desired to see us, and had sent his equipage for us; we consented, and had much conversation Avitli him and liis wife, &c. They have a fine family, and I hope some things that passed will be remembered. The young man followed us to the inn, and said, that he was so struck with us at the gymnasium, that he seai'ched in a Cyclopedia for further information respecting our religious society, and what he found increased his desire to kno^y more of us. He was very loving, and said, that he considered this as one of the happiest days of his life. AVe gave him some tracts, and he took an affectionate leave of us." 58 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. The next day was occupied in travelling to Bielgorod ; part of the road was excellent, through extensive open country, extremely bare of trees, but amidst large tracts of land culti- vated for corn. Though dark when they arrived, W. Allen says — " My mind, was settled and calm, under a conviction that I was in my right place. We have reason to be glad that we came to this city, and must acknowledge that the most marked attention has been shown us. We may speak strongly of Russian liospitaKty, and I believe our coming here has been the means of stimulating many to greater diligence in the pursuit of that which is good. Prince A. Gahtzui had given us a letter to Bishop Eugene, with whom we had an interview at the Monastery, much to our satisfac- tion. He received us in a very agreeable manner, and his observations showed that he was acquainted ^^•ith real, vital religion. Stephen had much conversation with him; I did not say a great deal, though 1 felt much, and I think the dear man was comforted and encom'aged ; he earnestly craved our prayers, was very tender at parting, and gave us his benediction.^' In passing through Russia it was needful to be furnished with provisions as well as accommodation for sleeping, as there was great uncertainty whether any could be procured at the stations, or even cooked there. This irregularity, with regard to food and rest, z'endered the journey very fatiguing ; but strength seemed mercifully given for the day, and the travellers could gratefully commemorate the favours dispensed by their Gracious Lord, who had provided for their necessities, and preserved them amidst many perils. On one occasion, they were in considerable danger from the driver's missing his way in the dark, but it was dis- covered in time to prevent any serious consequences. At Karkov, they were engaged as usual, and met with much kind attention from the authorities. William Allen says — "The Scriptures are read morning and evening at Ihe gymnasium, end a portion of them during (Huner.''' 2819.1 •Jl'' \VILL1AM ALLEX. 59 He mentions that a spirit of benevolence prevails m this place, and states that — " The secretary of the Bible Society, G. Borelle, has been the means of distributing ten thousand of the Princess Mestchersk/s tracts, and he said he could translate English tracts into Russ, if they Avere sent to him." In proceeding on the vi^ay to Ekaterinoslav, he writes — ''My mind has been sweetly refreshed and comforted with a feeling of the dear Master's jjeace, and a renewed conviction that I am performing a duty to Him." During this part of the journey, they came upon those great plains called Steppes, and soon after crossing the Dnieper, (the ancient Boiysthenes of the Greeks), they reached their long- desired point, Ekaterinoslav, where he says — " We were kindly received by the Governor, and by every one Avhom we met with, and here, He, who has so remarkably preserved and conducted us hitherto, has graciously provided for us in this im- portant part of the work — visiting the German and other Colonies. We had a letter from Habhtz for the superintendent. General Con- tineas, who was out when we went to deliver it, but he came to us soon afterwards, and fi'om the benignity of his countenance, I was sure, before he said a word, that he was our man. He received us not only with kindness, but affection. We were soon convinced of the justice of all the good we had heard of him from om* dear Hablitz and others, and found him a serious, feeling, sensible man; he speaks Erench and German, as well as Russ, and the Emperor depends prin- cipally upon him in the management of all the Colonies. He was truly glad to see us; we explained to him the grounds of oiu' visit to these parts, and inquired if he could find a person who could act as interpreter, and who at the same time possessed religious sensi- bihty ; he almost immediately rephed, ' I will go with you myself.' My heart was filled with humble gratitude and admiration. He said, the Governor was very desirous that we should go and dine 60 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Tsdtli liim directly, and that the Governor of Cherson, who is here on a visit, was to be there. We accordingly went, and were treated with the greatest openness and cordiality. Con- tineas dined with us, and we were glad to become acquainted with the Governor of Cherson, who kindly in\ited us to visit him on our way. In the afternoon we went to see an extensive cloth manufactory. The work people are peasants of the crown, but receive wages. A great many children are employed, and but few of them have any education. Fifth Month \Wi. — After visiting the prison, our friend Contineas made us stop to see a large garden, which he first established about ten years ago, as a nursery for young fruit and forest trees, and every thing useful for the colonies and the country; he is very anxious that I should send him seeds, &c., from England, which I have promised to do, if he will send me a Hst. Tliis garden is a truly patriotic undertaking, and it will afford me great pleasure if I can at all contribute to its success. We visited the hospitals and other public institutions, the Governor shewing us every possible attention. At the district schools we found they had not, at present, the Bible as a school book, but we were glad to hear, that, by the last post, an order came, that the New Testament, without note, should be used in the schools. They have some minerals in glass cases, and a number of useful wooden models ; among the minerals was a valuable specimen, a fragment of an aerolite, weighing thirty-sk pounds, which fell in the second month, ISl-l, about two hundred and sixty versts east of this place. It was of a grey colour, and, as these stones usually are, in places contained little groups of crystals, which the glass shewed to have a metallic lustre ; but, what was most remarkable, one of the sides had a black crust, pretty even, as if the matter had fiUed up a chasm." 20//t. — After describing an interesting visit to a priest, lacarius, William Allen says — , named Mai 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 61 "He appears to know fully the privilege and strength of silence, and is acquainted with vital religion; he opened his heai't to us, and we felt him like a brother beloved in the Lord ; he seems extremely humble and und(;r deep exercise of mind. Dear Stephen was made an instrument to comfort and strengthen him, and my mind was engaged in prayer on his behalf; he acknowledged he had felt that which was beyond words, and that we had been sent to him by the Lord. I had to encourage him to wait upon God, as a sure M'ay to experience an increase of strength, and we parted in the sweet feeling of gospel love and fellowship.^' In his report to the Emperor, William Allen says, in reference to this place — "Our object in \isiting the Colonies was to strengthen and encourage, if so permitted, any pious characters whom w^e might meet with, and particularly to acquire a correct knowledge of the religious sects here. During the few days in which we stayed at Ekaterinoslav, we became providentially acquainted with some pious poor people, one of whom, in the first instance, inquired after us at om- inn. Through him we found out the rest, and had a conference with the whole of them together, our dear fiiend Contineas and his worthy colleague, A. M. Fadeev, at different times acting as our interpreters. We learned from these good people, many of whom felt very near to us in cliristian unity of spu-it, that the persons who frequently go under the name of Duhobortzi, hold very different principles, and that, in reality, there are tlu-ee sects of them. Those with whom we were conversing, called themselves Spiritual Clmstians. We put several questions to them, wliich they answered with great candour and siraphcity, and, as we afterwards found in conversing with another httle body of them at Simferopol, that they also were of exactly the same senthnents as those at Ekaterinoslav, we shall briefly give the result of our inquiries. They beheve in the divine authority of the Holy Scriptures, in the Deity of our Lord and Sa\dour, and in the influence of the Holy Spirit, as fully as any Christians whom we ever met with. 62 LIFE AND COURESPONDENCE [1819. They believe it their duty to abstain from all ceremonies, and think that the only acceptable worship is that which is performed ''in spirit and in truth/ They collect their families two or three times a-day to hear the Scriptures read, and abstain from secidar employment on the first day of the week, called Sunday, con- sidering it their duty to appropriate this day to religious exercises. Their marriages are performed with solemnity in their pubhc meetings, and the parties promise to be faithful to each other during life. They believe that the only true baptism is that of Christ with the Spirit, and that the water baptism of John is not now necessary : and they consider that the true communion is altogether of a spiritual natiu-e, and make use of no outward ceremony. In their meetings for ^vorship they sing psalms, and several of those who are esteemed by the rest as most pious, read to the others in turn. They have no appointed preachers, but any one who feels himself properly quahfied by the Divine Influence upon the mind, may expound and speak to edification ; they however consider that it should never be done for hire, or from any worldly motive. They believe that a true Christian can never harbom' revenge, and they think it their duty rather to suffer wrong than to seek to avenge it ; if any differences arise, they are settled among them- selves, and not brought to the tribunals. Some among them are considered as elders, and though it does not appear that they are regularly appointed, yet those Avho are most eminent for their piety are regarded as such, and it is their duty, when any of the fraternity are iU, to visit them, and if able to do so, to offer them advice, or afford them comfort. jN^o par- ticular ceremony is observed at their burial, but they sing a psalm. We were glad to find that they had established a form of discipline, so that if the moral conduct of any one does not correspond with his profession, he is tenderly exhorted, and much labour is bestowed upon him ; but if they judge that he cannot be reclaimed, he is disimited from the society. "With respect to the poor among them, they deem it their Christian duty to take care of, and support one another. It appears that they have no instance among them of children acting irreverently 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 63 towards their parents, and they are very careful to have them instructed in reading and writing. In conversing with these dear people, both at Ekaterinoslav and Simferopol, we felt an undoubted evidence of the sincere piety of many among them, and the concurrent testimony of all who spoke of them, was so highly in favour of their excellent moral character, and quiet peaceable demeanour, that we could but feel deeply for them, as part of that little flock scattered through dif- ferent lands, who have heard the voice of the true Shepherd, and are striving to follow him.''^ During the stay of the travellers at Ekaterinoslav, several opportunities occurred for religious intercourse with different classes, and many books and tracts were distributed. William Allen sent a detailed account of their visit to the German colonies of Mennonites, on the banks of the Dnieper, in a letter to his daughter ; and in describing this interesting portion of their journey, says — "Fifth Month 23rd. — We set off this morning for the Colonies, Contineas accompanying us in his carriage. Our road is excellent, over what is called a Steppe, which is a wide expanse of natural grass, without a tree or even shrub. Several mounds from twenty to thii'ty feet high, resembling our barrows in England, are scat- tered over these extensive plains, and are supposed to be the rude monuments of the Nomadic Tartars, who formerly occupied this district. On coming into the possession of Russia, it was very thinly peopled; but the Emperor is encouraging Colonies of industrious persons, chiefly foreigners, to settle here, and is grant- ing them many privileges. Some of these Colonies consist of Germans, including Roman Catholics, Lutherans, &c. Others, of inhabitants of Smolensk, who were suff'erers when the place was destroyed in 1812. Some are from Bulgaria, and some are dis- senters from the Greek church, who were much persecuted until the Emperor took them under his protection, and settled them here. There are six distinct kinds of Colonies, but the most remarkable and the most flourishing are those of the Mennonites, 64 LIFE AND COEEESPONDENCE [1819. who came principally from the neighbourhood of Dantzig in Prussia. They are a most interesting people, and very much resemble Friends on some points. Their ministers receive no salary, but su]3port themselves with the labour of their hands, and even their bishop may be seen guiding his own plough. They agree with us in beheving that war is inconsistent with the spirit of the Ciiristian dispensation, and accordingly they conscientiously refuse to bear arms. This, in their native country, where every man is supposed to be born a soldier, naturally subjected them to persecution, and rendered their situation very painful. The Emperor, ho\\-ever, with that tenderness of feeling, for which he is so remai'kable, secm-ed to them the fi-ee exercise of their religion, and granted them many privileges ; and their subsequent conduct has fully justified the opinion he formed of them."^ After travelling about thirty miles, we arrived at Neuenbourg, the first Colony of Mennonites; it consists of fourteen famihes, and every family has sixty dekateens of land, for which they only pay to the crown fifteen kopecks per dekateen per annum, with an agreement to keep up the roads and bridges through their respective places. Each dekateen is nearly ecjual to two and three-quarters Enghsh acres. A rouble is worth from ten to eleven pence sterling ; one hmidred kopecks make a rouble, so that ten kopecks are equivalent to one penny. The Emperor, in his visit to these parts last year, was so much pleased with the Mennonites, that he gives every new family of this sect, who come to settle here, five dekateens more than to any of the rest. Many hundred famihes are expected from Prussia tliis year. The King of Prussia does not ^vish to part with them, as they are indeed some of the very best of his subjects ; but as they cannot bear arms, the popular odium is so strong against them, that they are glad to get away. The soil allotted to them in Eussia is so excellent, and the privileges they enjoy there, with the free exercise of their religion, so great, that if nothing * In alluding to these Colonics, in the year 1830, William Allen observes — " The Emperor Alexander, to the period of his lamented death, continued to take great pleasure in witnessing then- success." 1S19.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 65 unforeseen occurs, they must., in a very few years, become ricli. Those who are akeacly settled, have large flocks and herds, and most of them are in a very thriving way. We took up our lodging in the village of Cortitz, which consists of thirty-nine families of Mennonites, and were most hospitably entertained by the mayor of the canton. The colony, or canton Cortitz, is altogether Men- nonite, and comprises fifteen villages; the first settlers came about thirty years ago from Prussia, and consisted of tln-ee hundred and thirty-one families, but they are now increased to nearly six hundred. The houses are built of wood, very neatly thatched, and comfortable; they present a striking contrast, when compared with a Eussian cottage, and are all furnished with a commodious barn and granary, and a garden, well stocked with fruit trees. In the evening we had a conference with their elder or bishop, a very sedate man ; we felt inclined to have a meeting with them to-morrow, and he very readily agreed to give notice in the other villages. Fifth Month %M.h. — The meeting was appointed at nine o^clock this morning, in a very neat, plain and commodious meeting house. On approaching it, we saw the house surrounded with horses and carts belonging to those who came from a distance, and, though the notice was so short, there were about five hundred persons present. There were some from most, if not all, the fifteen ^^lIages. "VYe found them singmg a psalm according to their usual custom, and soon after they had finished, the Bishop explained to them, in German, who we were, and the object of our joiu-ney, and then exhorted them to prayer; they all knelt down, and remained a short time without uttering a word. They are in the practice of silent prayer, both at the beginning and close of their worship. We then sat as quiet as in a Friends' meeting; the presence of the Lord was with us, to our comfort, and indeed almost as soon as I sat down, my mind was humbled and contrited. Stephen spoke at considerable length, Contineas interpreting. I thought that something was also required of me, and had much sweet peace in yielding to the expression of it. Stephen again addressed them for a short time. It was a solemn meeting; several of the people were in tears, and I believe many VOL. II. p 06 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. will long remember the occasion. We witlidi'ew with the Bishop^ who was very loving^ as well as others of the congregation, and I trust they were strengthened and comforted. The school-master seemed an intelligent young man, and was desu'ous that we should see his school, which we did, and found that most, if not all, the children in the colony can read ; we left them some tracts. As Contineas and I were riding together, to see some of the plantations, the dear old man encouraged me a good deal about what I had said in the meeting. The whole subject of these colonies is so interesting, that I hardly know how to keep my letter in moderate compass. The improvements they are making are delightfid. From Cortitz we sent our carriages forward by the direct road : but the Governor, by liiring two small carts, and passing through some water, contrived to shorten the journey considerably, and give us also an opportunity of visiting the Island of Cortitz, situated in the Dnieper. I went with him in one cart, and Stephen, with the assessor of the colony, in another. At the side of the river, are large masses of granite rock, about thirty feet high : there are also rocks on the other side, which, with the trees — for there are some in these parts — and the surrounding country, make a beautiful landscape. The Island is nine versts long, and five broad, and contains one village of the Mennonites. On our landing upon it, the pious pastor came to meet us in a little light cart ; we w^ere both struck with the sweetness and simpHcity which appeared in liis countenance. After the first salutation, he set off at full speed to give notice to his wife of our coming ; as we approached the avenue leading to the house, we found the path strewed with lilac blossoms, the rooms also were ornamented with flowers, and every thing bore the marks of neatness and comfort. The mistress of the house is, apparently, a very clever woman ; they have five or six children, some of them nearly grown up. We were much delighted with this truly christian family, \vith whom we had some rehgious communication, and Stephen told them, that on entering the house he could off'er the salutation of peace. We could not get away from these kind people without taking some coffee with them, vind the pastor would go Avith us himself 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 67 across tlie Dnieper to another Mennonite colony, where we were to lodge. We were rowed about seven miles down tlie river to Sclionweise, and here, though it was late in the evening, they agreed to give notice for a meeting to be held at nine o'clock. The house was hghted up, and, at the time appointed, dear old Contuieas accompanied us to the place, where we found about one hundred and fifty collected, and very quiet. In a little time Peter Hildebrande, the pastor, stood up, and very briefly informed them, in German, who we were, and what were oiu- objects, and I understood enough to know that he did it ui a feehng and very proper manner. They then, as before^ all knelt down in mental prayer, and, after a pause, Stephen was led to show the necessity of a life of hohness, and to give much counsel adapted^ I have no doubt, to their state. The meeting ended, as it began, in great quietness. Fifth Month %bth. — We had a parting religious opportunity in the family, and, after travelhng over part of a vast Steppe, arrived in the evening at Greenenthal, where there is a settlement of nine or ten families. This is one of the principal stations of the flocks of ]\Ierinos, and Contiueas examined them very care- fully. We slept in a httle cottage which was very clean; the owner of it is the overseer of tliis Colony, and seems an excellent young man ; his mother lives with him. 2&th. — Our road still lay over the Steppe, where good natural grass grows luxuriantly. We passed through several villages on our way to Halbstadt, a considerable settlement of the Mennonites, where one of their elders or bishops resides ; his dress is the same as the other Colonists, he has five or six children, and is esteemed a pious character ; he has no remuneration for his office, strictly observing the injunction of the Saviour, ' Freely ye have received, freely give.' We went to call upon him and met with a very kind reception ; he readily agreed to our having a meeting for worship in their meeting-house, which is near Tetershagen, and said he would himself arrange for notice to be given. As there is to be an examination of some young persons in the Catechism, &e., to-morrow morning, it was settled that the meeting sliould be in the afternoon. We learnt from the bishop that they have received F 2 68 LIFE AND COURESPONDENCE [1819* five Imndi'ed Bibles from the Bible Society at Petersburg, and four hundred Testaments. He only speaks German, so our conver- sation was through Contineas ; he seemed to feel love for us, and we did for him. There are two bishops or elders in the Colony, who ordain the inferior clergy by the lajing on of hands : they do not administer baptism till about the age of seventeen, and not then until the young person is found capable of going tlu'ough an examination. We went to their cloth manufactory, where they have an Englishman to conduct the process of dyeing. In the afternoon we went to see a nursery of fi'uit and forest trees, from whence the colonies in the neighbourhood are supplied. The good effects of this wise plan are quite incalculable. AVe then proceeded to Petershagen, where we were to lodge, and were kindly received by an aged couple, with ^\hom we felt immediately at home : there is something so mild and agi'eeable about these people, we seem quite amongst our own fiiends. There is an air of tranquillity and peace in tins place which I have never witnessed in any other village. Fifth Month %lth. — We went tliis morning to attend the examination, which was conducted by the bishop. The appear- ance of many of the young people was interesting, and we thought that divers of them were acquainted with the power of rehgion. When the questioning was gone through, the bishop spoke to them for a short time, and Stephen, having obtained permission, also addressed them. I Avas afterwards very low, and felt the prospect of the meeting in the afternoon. I walked alone into the garden, where my prayers were put up that our Divine Master would glorify his own name, and preserve us from injuring his blessed cause, either by saying or withholding, and I was comforted in this time of retirement. The meeting was a favoured opportunity, for \vhich we felt humbly thankful. Stephen preached for some time, and was afterwards engaged in prayer; Contineas interpreted on both occasions, and having felt that it was requii*ed of me to speak, I rose, and began with the text, ' The kingdom of God is not in ^•ord, but in power.'' Stephen put \A'hat I had to say into French, and Contineas into German. AYhen the meeting was over, we shook hands with the bishop, who seemed very affectionate and kind. 1 819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEX. 69 Fifth Monih 9^%Ui. — ]\iy eyes are violently inflamed this morning, v\'liicli I attribute to travelling in the \^and over these exposed plains, but my mind is filled with peace. We paid sweet \asits to several families, and found the hearts of the people quite opened to us; indeed we have met \\-ith great kindness from them. We dined Avith the Obersclmltz of the colony, Avho was at our first meeting, and has since followed us wherever we have been. ; and in the afternoon we returned to our kind aged host, wdiere wc had an afiecting parting in the full fiowings of gospel love. They entreated that we would remember them. We then set out for Orloff, another Mennonite settlement, where we lodged. Yfe passed an extensive Bergcrie, and saw a beautiful flock of between two and three thousand sheep. 29^5/^. — A meeting was appointed for us this morning at the place of worship here, and the bishop came over from llalberstadt to attend it. He introduced us in a very feeling manner, stating who we were, and the objects of our journey. About five hundred persons were present. They commenced as usu/al by kneeling for a short time in silence, and when all rose and were seated, there was a solemn pause. Stephen then addressed them for above an hour. He spoke in Erench, as before, and Contineas interpreted sentence by sentence into German. The people were very attentive, and after he sat clown the silence w"as again impressive. The meeting being concluded, the bishop dismissed the congregation. He afterwards came to dine -n-ith us, and en parting, took a very affectionate leave, conuncnding us to the divine care and protection. We felt these people dear to us in tlie bonds of Cluistian lellow'ship. On lea\dng OrlolT ^ve proceeded to ^iltona, the last of the Mennonite settlements : w^e nassed several ^nllaa'cs on our TA'ay, and were truly gratified in seeing the neatness of the houses. We were kindly taken in to lodge by a precious young man, one of their ministers, who, with his wife, gave us a kind and Christian reception. We were in the very room which the Emperor occupied in his visit last year, when he was quite delighted with these people. 70 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819, In the evening, Contineas and our host accompanied us a distance of about five versts, to Terpania, a village where there is a settlement of one of the sects of the Duhobortsi. We crossed the Moloshnia River, and on our arrival, were conducted to the house where they are in the practice of meeting on public occasions, and where we found several of the fraternity. They were well dressed according to the custom of the country, but there was something in their countenances which I did not quite like. We had some conversation through Contineas, and informed them that we had heard in England of the persecution they had endured, and also of the humane interposition of the Emperor, on their behaK, — that wliile we had felt sympathy with them in their sufferings, we Avished to know from themselves what were their religious principles. It soon appeared, however, that they have no fixed principles ; there was a studied evasion in their answers, and though they readily quoted texts, it is plain they do not acknowledge the authority of scripture, and have some very erroneous notions. I was anxious to ascertain their belief respecting our Saviom-, but could learn nothing satisfactory. Stephen endeavoured, through Contineas, to convince them of then errors on some points, but they appear in a very dark state ; they have driven out from among them, all those persons called Duhobortsi, who receive scriptmal truth, and who are of the class with whom we were so much pleased at Ekaterinoslav. My spirit was greatly affected, and I came away from them much depressed. The following morning (Eirst-day) was also spent ^^dth the Duhobortsi; a considerable number attended what they called their worship, but some of their ceremonies were painfid to witness. They manifested great ignorance on the subject of rehgion, and the interview did not prove more satisfactory than that on the preceding day. An opportunity was however afforded for some gospel labour among them." In the evening a meeting was held with the people of Altona. William Allen says — " In the time of silence I felt the precious life rising, and had no doubt we should have a good meeting, and so it proved. Dear 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 71 Stephen preached for about an hour_, and had acceptable service ; after this there was a solemn pause, and I then rose and spoke for some time, but I was careful to leave off when the pressure of duty was removed. It was a season that ought never to be forgotten by us. The people were affected to tears, and the feelings at this meeting richly paid us for all our toils and privations on the road. Fifth Month 2>\st. — On rising, this morning, my mind was filled with sweet peace. Our friends provided an early breakfast, after which we had a precious parting opportunity with the family, &c., and then set out for Perekop, Contineas accompanying us part of the way. I was with liim, as usual, and we had much interest- ing conversation, for I can generally make myself well understood in Trench, but in public religious communications I am afi'aid to ventiu-e. After going through the Moloshnia Vodi, and passing the village of the Duhobortsi, which we had previously visited, we took a final leave of dear Contineas, with much affection on both sides.* About noon a covered cart overtook us, and it proved to be one of the colonists who brought the packet of letters which had been forwarded from Ekaterinoslav. My poor eyes were in a sad * Neither time nor distance interrupted tliis flow of affectionate feeling, which contiaued till the close of Contineas's lengthened life. It was occasionally renewed by interchange of letters, and his last communication to William Allen, dated "March 21, 1S30," was dictated after he was unable to do more than affix his name to it. Tlie first letter which W. Allen received after their separation was addressed — TO WILLIAil ALLEN, OF LONDON, AND STEPHEN GKELLET, OF NEW YORK. "Ekaterinoslav, the \%th Nov., 1819. "Much respected, veky deak, and worthy fkiends, "I should not do justice to the feelings with which you have inspired me, feelings which are indeed near my heart, if I made use of any other terms in addressing you. The two weeks which I. had the liappiness of passing in your society, are a memorable epoch in my life. You are the first travellers whose acquaintance has been to me as delightful as it was edifying, and the sepai-ation from you has left deep regret in my soul, as well as in the hearts of the Mennonites whom you have visited. My ofiicial journeys prevented my sending them a translation of your letter, addressed to the ministers of 72 LITE a:hd correspondence [1819. statCj but I could not resist the inclination to read as much as possible of tliis treasure, and I was greatly comforted and deeply thankful at the accounts. their chiircli, until the month of September ; their reply will show you with what devotedness of heart they received it, and how much they were edified by the spirit of christian piety which breathed tluroughout the whole of it. It was solemnly read in the fom* churches, before aU the congregations, and touched the auditors even to tears. The recollection of yom- ever memorable visit, of yoiu pious labours, of the edifying sermons delivered by you iu then- temples and in their families, in the piue spirit of the Gospel of the Saviour of souls, wUl remain for ever engraven on theu hearts, and not only on the hearts of the present generation, but will be handed down to their posterity ; for yom- names and your memory are cherished and honoured by persons of all ages. There is little hope that two apostles like you, one from England, the other from America, wiU soon re-appear in our horizon to comfort suffering humanity, to loosen the chains of the prisoner, and to spread the pui-e light of christian faith. Renewed desues are awakened in the hearts of the Mennonites, as well as in mine, that, tkrough the Grace of our Lord, after a journey as long and trying as it has been salutary to many nations, is accompHshed, you may be happUy restored to the bosom of your dear families. Since you were here a Lancasterian school has been opened for the clnlch-en of soldiers ; it is maintained by the crown, and about two hundred and fifty boys are receiving instruction according to that excellent method, which, it is said, wiU be introduced every wliere. I mention this circumstance, knowing that whatever tends to the welfare of mankind is iuterestiug to you. I conclude, my very dear and worthy friends, earnestly entreating you to let us hear of you. We pray that yoiu christian piety and the spirit of your cdifymg words, may every where make as salutary an impression as with us, upon soids which need to be strengthened iu the faith of om- Lord and Saviom' Jesus Christ. May liis grace be with you always, and with us all! Your sincere and faithful friend, CONTINEAS." The reply of the Mennonites, to wliich Contineas rdludes, breathes the same spirit of christian love and pious feeling wtiich characterizes his letter. It is dated, " Trom the Mennonites on the left shore of the Moloshnia, in the Government of Tauris, in Russia ;" and, after a loving and apostobc com- mencement, they write — • "Dear Friends, yoiu affectionate desires for us, in consideration of the gi-eat care devolvmg on us, as pastors of the Hock entrusted to us, excites in us frequent desires to be found worthy of the ever-important office of a ] 819.1 OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 7o In the course of our ride to-day we saw some beautiful green lizards running about^ and some little brown animals wliicli I tliink were jerboas : there was a great variety of birds^ some of which were so tame that they let us drive close by them. Several eagles and wild peacocks were amongst the number. We stopped for the nio'ht at a single house^ but as there was no accommodation for lodging, we remained in the britzka which was drawn under cover. Close by us was a company of Turks and Tartars^ crowded together in a little hovel. As I was -walking about, a very agreeable mam a traveller, accosted me. He was a Greek from the Island of Zante ; he was very mucli of a gentleman, and there minister of the gospel. The apostle saith, 'We are stewards of God's mysteries.' Oh that we may be found faithful ! We have abundant cause to thank. God for the vast blessings bestowed upon us in liis grace, who hath, by liis merciful hand, condescended to guide nSj poor unworthy shiners, to a country under so glorious a monarch, whose praise resoundeth to the ends of the earth, and under whom we have undisturbed peace. Yea, for all om- temporal blessings, and more especially for the salvation of the soul, thanlis be unto thee, O Lord of hosts, now and for evermore. Amen i To this we would add our fervent desii-e that we had hearts to fear God, and keep Ids commandments all om lives long. May the Etcraal Redeemer, in his mercy, be our stronghold, our shield, and oiu- fortress ; and preserve us from the stratagems of the enemy ! Bear friends and brcthi-cn in Christ, youi- honest-hearted visit to us, your edifying counsel, and your balsamic epistle, we gratefully accept as a proof of pm-e brotherly love. Our hearts have been thereby luiited to you, and yoiu' salutary instructions have awakened, in many of us, peculiar thought- fuluess. You have left your homes for the sake of the word of God, and the salvation of souls, and have offered yoiu'selves up to his guidance for Jesus' sake. We very earnestly desne that he may accompany your impor- tant work \vith his saving blessing. Wc have, with joy of heart, to thank the Lord oui- God for his mercy, that, in these latter times, he makes use of faithfnl labourers as instruments to spread the pui'e precepts of Christianity. May he bless you Antli the strength of his Spirit, that yom- laboiu- may not be in vain in the Lord; may he continue mth you in your holy undertaking, crown yoiu- faithful labours, and reward you for ever in his mercy i Dear friends, though the Avide sea separates us, yet love unites us. May God unite our hearts more and more in the power of the Holy Spirit, and bless ns all with heavenly grace ! We aU salute you with the kiss of love and peace. (Signed) JACOB FAST, Elder of the Congregation at Halbekst.^dt." 74 ~ LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. was sometliing mild and affectionate in his manner. We botli heartily regretted that we could not speak to each other^ but like myseK, he knows a few words of Russ^ and smiling and looking upwards, he pronounced the word 'God^ in that language. Stephen and I were afterwards amused in considering how many different nations were met in this spot, — an American, an Englisliman, a Greek, a German, a Pole, a Turk, Tartar, Jew, Russian, &c. Sixth Month 1st. — We started at five o'' clock. In the com'se of this day, traversing the great steppe, we stopped to rest the horses at Garashoo, a Tartar village, and were dining in the britzka, when a Tartai', who we afterwards found was one of the principal men in the place, came to the side of our carriage, and looked upon us so lovingly, that I almost involuntarily took him by the hand. He could s])edk Russ, and Sobieski told us that he was very earnest for us to go to his house, which I was ready enough to do, as 1 like to see how the various tribes of the great human family live. We accordingly accompanied liim and several of liis companions, and found that they had a school Avhich they took us to see. The floor Avas spread with old carpets, as they do not use chairs or benches. One of the boys read to us in the Al Koran, and they showed us some of then* writing, which appeared very neat. The school-master had a brass case for the reeds wdth which they write, and a little inkstand attached to it ; they write from right to left. The priest was also at the school, and Stephen contrived to get two or three ideas conveyed to him through Sobieski, which om- Tartar friend, in an audible voice, interpreted to the rest. They are of course all Mahometans, but they beheve in the influence of the Divine Spirit upon the mind. We much Avished we could have spoken in then- language, as their hearts seemed open to us. The house of our kind Tartar consisted of several apartments on the gi'ound floor; he brought us into his parlour, which had something like a long bed in it, on which he placed us. He pressed us to stay all night, saying that he would kill a sheep for us, and that we should have plenty of time next day to get to Perekop, but we excused ourselves. He woidd make us take tea, and gave us some which was excellent. He is very desirous to promote the education of the children of his village. 1819.] 05' WILLIAM alle:>'. 75 and there seems something good about him. He accompanied us to the carriage^ and on taking leave, kissed our hands and put them to his forehead. About seven o^ clock v/e stopped for the night at a Tartar village, and slept in our clothes in the carriage as usual. As my eyes are betrinning to get better, I ventured to write a little in my journal, but travelhng, and continued engagements, render it extremely difficult to keep it up. I had a better night than the last, and though thus exposed in the road, in the midst of Jews and Tartars, I felt no apprehension or anxiety. Tlie hand of the Lord has been marvellously with us, though oiu* trials and privations have not been small. Sixtli Month 'incl, — l\Iy eyes are a good deal better. We have seen, to-day, a large flock of camels or dromedaries, also many birds not common in England. On arriving at Perckop, we were taken by the driver to a private house, there being no inn in the tovm : we were, however, kindly received and entertained, and our host refused to accept any remuneration : he insisted upon our takuig up oiu' quarters \^ith hun on oiu' return. 2>rd, — In our way to Simferopol, we went to see one of the principal salt lakes, which supply the whole country '>,nth salt. It is formed entirely in the lake, by spontaneous evaporation, in ihe seventh and eighth months. We saw a number of persons at work, and learnt the particidars of the process employed in pre- paring it, from a prestor or officer, who was veiy civil. The lake is thu'ty-eight versts round; it has no communication whatever with the sea, and consequently there must be salt springs. I was much gi-atified with tliis sight. 4^;/^ — Stai'ted about six„ We are still passing over a great steppe ; the soil is extremely rich, and the gi'ass luxuriant, but there is a great deal of wormwood in it. Durins; our ride to-dav we observed mountains before us in the distant horizon, a sidit which I do not recollect that we have had, in all our journey from Abo, a distance of nearly two thousand miles. "^'e arrived at Simferopol about noon. The only inn is a very m.iserable one, but our rule is to make the best of everv thingc After diiiner vi-e took a turn through the town, and came 76 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. among a great number of shops ; in one of tliem we saw a range of books which we thought looked like Bibles, and they proved to be so. On inquiring whether there was a Bible Society here, we were glad to find that there was one ; they sell but fevf Tartar copies of the Scriptm'es, but several of the Hebrew Testaments to the Jews. We met with a young man of an agreeable comite- nance, who it appears is a member of the Bible Society, and we brought him to our inn, and gave him some of the Princess Mestchersky's tracts. Sixtk Month hth. — We called upon the vice governor, but not finding liim at home, went to the house of the secretary, who is an agreeable man, speaks French well, and is a member of the Bible Society. We prevailed upon him to open the Princess letter, which, he says, is a very fuU recommendation, and that all under govern- ment are bound to assist us to the utmost of their power. We saw five or six of the people caUed Duhobortsi in the evening, and discovered that they were of the right sort ; we were much pleased wth every one of them, and thought there was great sweetness in their countenances. We find they prize the Scriptm-es very much, and had collected a subscription amongst themselves, which they sent by the post to Petersburg, to purchase Bibles, but the money was lost. We think it right to go to Sevastopol, but have fixed to have an interview Tvith them again, before we finally leave this place. &th. — My mind is filled with sweet peace tliis morning, and a full evidence that we are rightly engaged, and doing the Master's work. We arrived at Sevastopol in the evening, having stopped on om- way at Batchisaray, where there are a great many Jews of a particular kind, called Caroid ; they are mentioned in Dr. Pinker- ton's book. We visited then- interesting establishment, situated on the summit of high rocks, fi-om -whence there is a full view of the Euxine. The chief priest, with whom Stephen had some rehgious conversation, shewed us a valuable manuscript copy of the Old Testament, beautifully written on parchment ; it was in a long box, covered with black velvet, and ornamented with silver ; the box contained two roUers, on wdiich the manuscript might be wound fi'om one to the other ; I was pleased to see tliis specimen 1819.1 OP -flrELLIAM ALLEN. 77 of the ancient plan. They have a printing press here, and a school. in which mathematics^ algebra, and the higher branches are taught. These Jews differ from others in rejecting the Talmud and adhering to the pure text of Scripture. Sixth Month 1th. — We saw the commandant, who received us verv kindlv : we visited the institutions, and towards evening, when wc were returning from the last prison, an officer joined us and entered into conversation, respectfully enquiring into the objects of our journey. He was struck and affected when he heard what they were. Soon afterwards, another gentleman, who, it appeared, was a cousin of his and brother to the commandant, lils^ewise joined us, and he also seemed deeply interested in what lie heard: thev vrere very lovino', and we brought them to our lodgings, where we had a great deal of conversation, and gave them some tracts. They seemed as though they did not know how to express tiieir gratitude for this providential meeting. Their minds M'ere tender and open ; one of them is said to be a very learned man, and is assesseur of the college at Sevastopol; they are Greeks, as is also the commandant, though in the service of Eussia. After tliey had spent a considerable time with us, they begged that wc •a'ould take a "nalk Mitli them, when they took us to the house of the commandant; he received us very respectfully, and here also we iiad much serious conversation to our great satisfaction; it seemed like the small rain upon the thirsty ground. We did not leave them tid rather late, when they again accompanied us to our inn, I beheve tliis inter\dcwf AviU long be remembered, and we felt, that for it alone it Avas well worth while to come to tliis place. ^th. — ^^¥e called on Lieutenant-Colonel Gavrina, who accom- panied us to the schools. Here, as in many other places, the education of the poor girls is almost wdiolly neglected. There is no gymnasium, and wc thid that there are about one hundi"ed and fifty officers^ children in M'ant of education. Their parents do not like to send them to the military school. A school on our plan is grievously wanted. '^Ve must notice this in our report to Peters- burg. When we had finished our business, Ave went to take leave of the admiral, who kindly ordered his boat to take us and our baggage 78 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE [1819, across to the place where we had left the carriage on coming here. Sevastopol is an excellent port, and is very advantageonsly situated on the side of a hill. We left it a httle before eleven, and reached Simferopol in the evening. Sixth Montli Wi. — AYe visited some of the institutions this morning, and have rarely seen a prison so clean and so satisfactory ; classification seems to be the principal thing wanting. In the afternoon we had an important conference ■\\dth the Malakans, improperly called Duhobortsi; they appear to be pre- cisely the same in principle as those at Ekaterinoslav. They believe in the Holy Scriptures, and in the divinity of our Lord and Saviour, as fully as we do ourselves; they also beheve in the influence of the Holy Spirit, and that saving grace is universal, and not withheld from any ; that it leads to all that is good, and, as we yield to it, assists us to avoid aU that is evil. They believe that the only true baptism is that of Christ with the Spirit, and reject water baptism as unnecessary ; they believe that spiritual baptism only, produces regeneration; they consider that the communion with Christ is wholly spiritual, and make use of no outward ceremony. In conversing upon this subject, they were evidently affected at finding that our sentiments so exactly coincided mth their's. But few residing here were born in their society, they were convinced by reading the Scriptures, and by what they felt in their own minds ; this, of course, endeared them still more to us, and was a precious and confirming evidence of those truths which we believe. These poor people had never heard of such a society as our's, and yet, by attending to the influence of the Divine Spirit, were in great measure brought to support the same testimonies in the midst of the darkness that suiTOunded them. They have suffered nobly for the truth; several of those wlio were comdnced in the government of Orloff, meeting together for the purposes of worship were noticed by the police, and as it was con- trary to the established religion, they were banished. They do not admit members tiU after a trial of their conduct ; if any are immoral, care is taken to exhort the parties ; to endeavour by all means to reclaim them, and also to pray for them, but if this is unavaihng, they are dismissed from the society. Only a few of them can read. 1819.] OF -vVILLIAM ALLEN, 79 It appears that tlicrc are three distinct sects. 1. — The Spii'itual Christians, or those of the principles just described ; they also call themselves IMalakans. 2. — Duhobortsi. Those on the Moloshnia, who reject the Scriptures, and are not Cluistians. 3. — Sabbatarians. Those wlio observe the seventh day, abstain from swine's flesh, and think that the Jewish dispensation was not fully abrogated by Clu-ist. AYe were glad to find that a great part of those wdio reside iu the government of Saratof are Malakans."^" The largest proportion of those upon the Don arc also of the right sort, as w'ell as those in the Caucasus. * As the Malakans appear to be little kuowu in tliis country, we extract some farther particulars respecting tlieni, from a document sent to William Allen iu the year 1S30 : it was forwarded to him by J. Peuucr of Cortitz, one of tlie Mcnuonite colonists, who says he is indebted to J. Coruies of Orloff, for the information it conveys. " Between the German colonies of Mennonites and the Nogay Tartars, lies the country of the Malakans, a sect so named on accoimt of their non-observaucc of fasts, and their use of milk diet on week days. The Malakans also call themselves true spiritual Christians. The district, or portion of land, appropriated to them in 1823, contained about thii'ty thousand dekateens, and in it is situated the large and weli-biult town of Nowa-wasilowka. Li Febiiiai'v, 1825, theh munber consisted of three himdred and ninety- eight males, and four hundi'cd females ; now it is hicrcased. They are chieHy from the governments of Tambov, OrlofP, and Ekaterinoslav ; many Don Cossacks are to he found among them, and several who have long served their country iu the rank of officer, and bear marks of this service. Ttiey have suffered persecution, in consequence of their separation from the Greek chui-ch, and many, particularly the Cossacks, languished for a long time in prison ; they, however, fmnly maintained their ground, and could not be compelled to give up those opinions which they had formed in con- sequence of readhig and searching the Bible, Anth the contents of which they were well acquainted. They prefer the Holy Scriptures to all other writings, considering them as the rule of their faith, and as containing the revealed will of God to man. Though not rich, they have paid as much as seventy roubles for a copy of the sacred volmne. They acknowledge Christ as God manifest in the flesh, who died on the cross for the sins of the world. Like the Duhobortsi, they give an entirely spiritual signification to baptism 80 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. In this interesting conference, much counsel was communicated to them tlu'ough the secretary, who kindly acted as interpreter. Sixth Month \^tJi. — "We packed our britzka this morning and set off for Theodosia, stopping on the way at Karasan Bazar, to visit the prison and schools. There is a Tartar school here, a Jews^ school, and an Armenian school. In the first, the only books in use were the Al Koran and a book of prayers, and most of these were in manuscript ; it requires a course of years to teach the children to read. At the Armenian school they have Bibles. We had some conversation through Sobieski, with the Priest, who was very kind and would have us go and take tea with him. We regretted much that we could not converse with these people, many of whose hearts appeared open to us. We travelled tlu'ough the night, and the following morning reached Theodosia, a very ancient town, beautifully situated upon a fine bay, where there is excellent anchorage for large vessels. It was once a very large and powerful place ; the Genoese took it from the Greeks ; the Tartars from the Genoese, and about thirty-two years ago the Russians took it from the Tartars. After breakfast we waited on the Governor, and found him a very agi-eeable man. and the supper, whicli are not kept by tliem in external signs and symbols, Tliey reject pictures or images, and the adoration of samts, ta their -fforsliip, as "svell as other ceremonies of the Greek church. They generally lead a good moi-al hfe, and there are among them many seeking souls who love God, and are searching after truth. It grieves them much that ihey cannot maintain order and harmony ia their colony, but they do not appear to have a sufficiently organised system of discipline. In their assemhUes the Bible is read and explained ; though most of them love the truth, yet they divide and separate themselves, forgetting, in the work of interpretation, and the support of points unneces- sary to salvation, that love which ' is the fulfilling of the law,' and wliich woidd unite all in the bond of peace. They are laborious and upright, and are amenable to the govermnent under which they live; they have no establishment for the education of their youth. The Sunday is strictly kept amongst them. Since the year 1825, to the present period, 1S30, the Malakans liave, from time to time, been joined by settlers from xVstracan, Oreubourg, Saratov, and other principal parts, so that there are now tlnee large villages." 1S19.J OF WIT.y.IAM ALLEN, Si He took us to see that part of the town where quarantine is performed. About twelve years ago the plague appeared in this place, and swept off nearly one haK of the inhabitants ; it was imported again six years ago, and in the house next to our inn all the residents died : it still remains empty. We then visited the institutions, and in the evening had much interesting conversation with the Governor; he wishes for information on our school system, and as he reads English, I promised him a Manual and some other works. It was worth visiting this place, were it only to become acquainted with him. Sixth Month \Wi. — We set off tliis morning on our retui-n to Simferopol, intending to take the remaining German colonics in our way. The Governor kindly ordered two horsemen, one a Greek, the other a Tartar, to accompany us and shew' us the road. He caine himself to take leave of us, and we parted affectioiiately. In passing along, we came to a neat little village, which is very rare in this country. Here is a hori2;ontal windmill, and they have two or tlnee such at Theodosia. About two o'clock we arrived at the first colony, Heiibrunn, consisting of thirty-six families from the neighbom-hood of Stuttgard, v.ho settled here about fifteen years ago. We met with a kind reception at the house of Hcinrich Pehler, and on consulting with the mayor or head officer, and some others, they readily agreed that we should have a meeting T^ith them, and that notice should be given. They have no minister, but the schoolmaster reads at then- worship; they first sing psalms ; he then reads prayers, and afterwards a sermon from a large printed book. Wc were glad to meet \\\\\\ these dear people, for whom we felt much love, and we had a satisfactory religious opportunity with them ; many w^.re affected by our visit, and we were sensible that it ^^•as a solemn time. We believe that a wide door is open to receive any who may hereafter come in like manner : we have enwacjed to a;ive them some books which we expect will be forwarded to us. If I am favoured to return in. safety, I must send them more from time to time, and especially the Scripture Reading Lessons, when they are translated into German. VOL II, G . 83 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819 In the evening we proceeded about eight versts to Zurichthal, a colony of upwards of seventy famihes, and were conducted to the house of Wilhelm Giinthner, a steady valuable man, who was very kind to us ; he, and several more, accompanied us in an evening walk through the Colonies. These people seem, on the whole, getting forward very well, though not in the same style as the Mennonites, who are certainly the flower of the flock. To- morrow being first-day, we agreed to sit with them during their worship. 8ixth Month \Wi. — A considerable number of the colonists assembled this morning. They have no pastor, but we were glad to find that here, as well as at Heilbrunn, they are in the constant practice of meeting for divine worsliip on Pirat-days, Most of them had Bibles or prayer books. We sat with our minds retired under a feeling of love and sweetness, whilst they went tlu-ough their usual routine, the school-master reading theii' service ; and we afterwards endeavoured to convey a few words to them, but were poorly off for an interpreter, as they only speak German ; we were^ however, glad of this opportunity, and I believe the people were strengthened and encouraged. We took an alfectionate leave of them, and set oft' for two colonies on the other side of Karasan Bazar. At the first of these, Rosenthal, the settlers are Roman Catholics; there are sixty-two families, they have been established here about fifteen years. The mayor, who hves at the next protestant colony, Neusatz, but was then at Rosenthal, received us very kindly, and immediately had his horses brought out, to accompany us to Neusatz. The pastures are luxuriant, there are fine crops of peas, corn, &c., and oak and other trees ; we have seen notliing before like this, in the Crimea. The mayor took us to his father's house, v/here we had a cordial reception. They readily acceded to our proposal of having a meeting with them to-morrow, and one of the colonists, who speaks French, is to interpret for us. 14;^/^ — My mind was exceedingly low this morning. Priedensthal being only a verst from hence, and the colonists there being also protestants, they came to the meeting here. Most of them are Lutherans, but some are of the reformed religion, and onr interpreter 1319.] OF VVll.r/l.V.U ALLEN. ^>o was one of thcni. Tliere fire tluriy-four lainilies here, and twcnty- sLk at rricclensthal ; they have no pastor, but the school-master reads. They began, as usual, by singing a psahn. There was a solemn pause afterwards, and Stephen then rose and addressed them. The interpreter performed exceedingly well. I also thought it right to say a few sentences. We were both glad of tliis opportunity, with which the people seemed much satisfied, and I believe many were comforted in hearing the truths of the Gospel. "We walked over to the school at rricdensthal;, and heard several of the childi'en read. They are in great want of elementary books. We regretted, thai at Rosenthal, there is a liquor shop, established by government; from our observation, however, the people seem sober, and their cottages appear comfortable. On returning to tlie house of our kind friend, we had much interesting conversation tlu'ough the Erenchman who dined with us. After taking an affectionate leave, we set off for the Roman Catholic village of Eosenthal, where a meeting had been appointed at two o'clock ; the mayor accompanied us. Soon after our arrival, tlie bell was rung to collect the people, and a great number assembled in their place of worship. They had neither priest nor school-master, and began by singing. We felt the power of truth, and gospel love, rising sweetly into dominion. Just before the singhig closed, one of them came forward to a rope which was hung through the ceiling, and i-ang the bell for some minutes, to give notice that service was about to begin : we then had a little pause, and Stephen soon rose and spoke at considerable length, in a very s^itisfactory manner. I afterwards had something to communicate. The people v.'ere very attentive and respectful, and I believe felt this visit exceedingly kind and refreshing to their- spirits. The few pauses which- we had were very solemn and sweet. We left them some tracts, and parted in much love, humbly thankful that our steps had been directed through these colonies, where a channel is now open for further communication. We arrived at Simferopol between seven and eiglit. One of the ^lalakans called to say that five of their brethren, from the government of Tambov, were co.ine to look at sonre land which o 2 84? . LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. had been offered to them to settle upon as colonists. They are deputed on behalf of nearly two lumdred families. Sixth Month \hth. — We went to dine with the Governor at his country seat, about ten versts off. We were very kindly received by himself and liis wife^ and had an interesting visit. This part of the Crimea is very beautifid. In returning to Simferopol, we stopped to pay a \asit to the widow of the celebrated naturalist. Professor Pallas. She is a very affable, agreeable person, and hves in a nice small house, in a large garden, which she takes great delight in cultivating, and has made a delightfol place of what was before a waste. She has a great regard for the English, and we were immediately quite sociable. Her husband's affairs were involved at the time of his death, but the Emperor inquired into the circumstances, gave twelve thousand rubles to pay his debts, and settled three thousand rubles a year upon her, saying that her husband had done honour to Russia, and that the widow of such a man merited attention. We coidd not get away without taking a cup of tea wdth her, and she had it set out in the garden. We reached Simferopol in time for a meeting, wliicli we had appointed with the Malakans at six o'clock ; and we had an empty room, in our miserable inn, fitted up with benches and boards for the purpose. Our friend, the secretary, kindly sat with us, and acted as interpreter. I believe he performed his part in the best way he coidd, and that our gracious ]\Iaster made up any deficiency which there might be. We were favoured mth a sweet feehng of divine good, wliich spoke a language far beyond words. We first put several questions to the deputies from Tambov, with a view to ascertain whether they agreed in sentiment with the Malakans here, and received full satisfaction on this point. We also wished to have some idea of their numbers. Thev tliink, that in the Government of Tambov, there may be about five hundred famihes, either free or belonging to the crown, but they have reason to believe that a gi'eat many more among the peasants belonging to the different seigneurs, have embraced their principles. Those who are free, have liberty to exercise their w^orship ; but it is quite plain, that, next to divine interposition, they owe this indulgence to the Emperor. There are very few in 1810.1 OF -WILIJAM ALLEX, 85 Tambov of the sentiments of the poor deluded Duliobortsi of tlie Moloslmiaj or the Sabbatarians. The discipline of these i^eople appears the same as the Malakans ; they deal tenderly with offenders, but if these are irreclaimable they are disowned. About one half of the adults among them can read, and they deem it a duty to have their children taught. They correspond with one another, as a means of mutual encouragement. On assembling for divine worship, they pray, sing psalms, and read the Scriptures. Those who ' think themselves insjoired,' speak in their meetings, but they have no fixed preachers. They take care of one another, and when differences arise, they are settled among themselves, and are never taken to the tribunals. On the whole it appeared that tlieir religious sentiments were quite in accordance with those of the Malakans of Simferopol, There was not tlie least disposition to beg for assistance ; all they asked was for protection in the exercise of their religion, and an ojoportunity to maintain themselves by honest industry. ^Ye find that the Emperor has had it in contemplation to settle colonies of them on the unappropriated lands, of which there are some thousand square miles in Russia ; and maps of these lands have he,e.n laid down and numbered. AYe must bring the whole matter before the Emperor, througli Prince A. GaKtzin and Papof, when v.c reach Odessa. We had now procured as much information as we could obtain through this channel, and the precious feeling of good so deepened that 1 longed for ns all to sit under it ; but this kind of service was new to the secretary, and he appeared a little restless at one time. The power of Truth, liowever, was I believe in some degree felt even by him, and he interpreted a good deal for Stephen, who gave them much excellent advice; he counselled them to endeavour, in their meetings for solemn worship, to detach their minds from outward things, and wait in prostration of soul before the Lord in silence, for the renewal of their spiritual strength. I distinctly felt that something was required of me, and when Stephen had finished, I also addressed them, under a sense that best help was granted, and I felt Avarranted to say in concluding, ' Fear not little iiock, it is your Eather's good pleasure to 86 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. give you the kingdom/ O, how gracious is He \vith whom we have to do, and how he furnishes strength equal to the day ! During the whole of these communications, several of these dear people put their hands upon their breasts, and by their looks and manner, expressed how cordial they felt them. The secretary informed us that they most fully united with all that we had said, that we had expressed their own sentiments, and that they had particu- larly wished for our advice on the subject of worship. Stephen said a few words more at parting, when they all shook hands with us, one by one, as they went out. Thus ended this memorable opportunity. We begged the secretary to state to the Governor what had passed this evening, which, I believe, he will faithfully do, and we left them under his care, requesting that their case might be represented in the first communication to Petersburg. We informed him that Ave intended to write also ourselves. Thus, after a deep exercise of faith and patience, is the work for which we have been sent to this empire, developing. We left a number of tracts, in German, which were the last we had, and after some further conversation with the secretary, he took an affectionate leave of us. Siz't/i Mo7ith \Q)th. — We left Simferopol about half-past five, but just before we set off", one of the Malakans, a nice old man^ brought us two loaves of bread, as a mark of their love. Stephen at first refused them, as we were already provided, but the poor old man seemed to take it to heart, and we accepted them ; he made many significant signs expressive of his love, and held us by the hand. Sobieski said that he begged to ride a verst or two with us, in order to have a few minutes more of our company, and we accordingly took him up ; he was very tender and contrited, and it was plain that he deeply felt the separation. We reached Perecop in the evening, and were allowed to have the rooms which we had before occupied, though the master of the house was from home. \lth — We visited the prison and military hospital, which is all that is to be seen in this httle place, and then set out for Cherson. On our approach fo Bereslaf, we had to cross the Dnieper, and the 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 87 ferry boat being absent, we engaged a vessel to take us over. The setting sun was beautifully reflectetl upon the extensive surface of this great river, wliich is here nearly five miles wide : it was late before we ai*rived at the town, where we found the lodging-house was so poor that, as we have often done before, we slept in the carriage. The next day we reached Cherson, a very large place, where we visited many of the institutions. There is no classification in the prison, but in other respects it is one of the best we have seen in Russia. They are about to build a new one, and the Governor was so much interested with the plan from London, that we presented him with it. The Governor of Nicolief is liis friend, and they will study it together, which will answer a double purpose : we had much conversation which I trust will be useful. The prison for the condemned was interesting, because there Ave found the first attempt at classification. We heard, upon inquiry, that orders had been received for the introduction of the Holy Scriptures at the District School, but they are only read there once a week. "We went to visit the spot where the remains of John Howard were interred ; it is about five or six versts from Cherson, on an old open steppe near the Countess Polotska's garden. The monument is a simple pyramid built of stone ; on one side of the pedestal I could just make out the name of Howard. These three appro- priate Latin words have been inscribed by the hand of some visitor, ' Propter alios vixit."" Within a few yards of this place, an Enghshman has erected a monument to the memory of his son, exactly similar to Howard^ s ; it is also without any inscription, which I consider extremely indehcate ; however, the upper part of it had fallen down, and although it has been built up again, it is done in so rough a manner that it may be easily distinguished from that of the real philantlu'opist. Our friend, the mayor, knew John Howard personally, and was at Cherson at the time of his death. On our return, we stopped to view the place where, by order of the Emperor, a new monument is 88 LIFE AND COKEESPONDENCE [1819. about to be raised to the memory of this good man, and opposite the monument, the new prison is to be erected. The military schools here contain about eight hundred boys; three months since, they were put upon our system of mutual instruction, and it was really surprising to see the state of order in which we found them. They are greatly in want of reading lessons, and I left with them the first fifteen sheets wliich we have received from Petersburg. A fine young man, a heuteuant of engineers, who is the inspector of the classes, showed so much joy in his countenance when I produced them, that I was quite dehghted with hiin; he possesses much dehcate feeling, and though he said but little, I could see that it was just the thing he wanted. I promised to use my influence to get him supplied with the rest as quickly as possible. I believe this visit encouraged them very much. My mind has been a little comforted ^^'ith some feeling of the love of God, and I have been sweetly in spirit with my dear child, my beloved, aged mother, &c. We arrived at Nicolief on the evening of the twentieth. The Governor, Admiral Greig, received us very kindly, and readily offered us every assistance ; he is an Englishman, and an excellent character, and I was glad to become acquainted with him. We visited some of the public institutions, and dined with him at his c;ountry seat, where we met several agreeable persons, and had much conversation on the great truths of rehgion ; there was a ready entrance, and one lady who appeared in a tender state of mind, remarked it was the first time in her hfe that any one had spoken to her in that way ; she was affected and comforted ; her husband also was very kind ; they reside at Odessa, and pressed us to make theii' house our home when we went there, telling us there was no comfortable inn; but we have been so used to campaigning that we have no fear about finding tolerable quarters. Sixth Month 22nd. — We succeeded in discovering some of the persons alluded to by the Malakans of Ekaterinoslav, and after a long conference with them, came to the conclusion that the few here were originally Duhobortsi ; they resemble the Sabbatarians ill abstaining from swine's flesli, but they are nearer the Malakans 1810.] OF ^VILLIA:\I ALLE^^ 89 in acknowledging the authenticity of the Scriptures and the divinity of our Lord. We hope that a great many are beginning to emerge from the errors of the Duhobortsi, and we learnt from those "with whom we conversed^ that the actual practice of these people was iu some instances different from what they told %s ; they gave us also this valuable information, that many at the Moloshnia read the Scriptures privately, and teach theii- children to read them. I drew a plan on paper for arranging the first room in the military school, upon the British system, and was glad to find that it would answer well for two hnndred and thirty-four children. I took it with me to the Admiral, who was very much pleased, and purposes to send two young men to Kiov to learn tlie plan. We left Nicohef in the afternoon, and reached Odessa the following day ; w'e passed a great deal of uncultivated steppe, and saw a large herd of horses ; Sobieski says, that oiie person alone owtis four thousand. Odessa is quite a new place, for in 1791 there was not a house here ; now there are forty thousand inhabitants, and it is a port of great consequence ; the quantity of corn exported is prodigious.''^ Amongst the letters which William Allen found on his ai-rival, was one from an excellent and benevolent person in Russia, who says — " I confess, candidly, that I have httle hope for all that is benevolent in society; it is very difficult to shape in a body all those servants of the world, and bring them to work against the interest of their master, the prince of the world; they are all divided wdien called to the vineyard of the Lord, but of one spirit and heart for all that concerns then* own seK." In reference to this paragraph, W. Allen says — " There is, unquestionably, a great deal of truth in this, but if we had suffered ourselves to be discouraged by such considerations, how many institutions, which are now conferring most extensive benefits on mankind, in England and elsewhere, would either never have existed, or have fallen to the ground." 90 LIFE AyD CORRESPONDENCE [1819. "Sixth Month I'hth. — Our fi-ieiid Fadeev, of Ekaterinoslav, has sent us a packet, containing a sensible and important letter on the subject of the Duhobortsi, and also a translation of the principles of the Malakans ; it is excellent, and fuUy justifies all that I have written of them before. Stephen has found a nice young man at the post office, a mem- ber of the Pliilanthropic Society, at Petersburg, who tells him that the ' Thoughts on the Importance of Eeligion' is translated into Euss. There is some alarm at the quarantine to day, as two men who were landed there from Constantinople, died this morning. 26z!i. — We went to dine Avith Count Langeron, the Governor. I was pleased to meet General InzofF, who sat next to me at dinner. He is the person to whom Contineas looks as his successor in the care of the colonies, and, as far as we could judge, seems very suitable for the office. "We find the alarm was not groundless, as the ship in which the two men died, has the plague on board. It is a large French vessel, and just touched at Constantinople, where some of the sailors made some purchases. The Governor says, that he regularly has advices from thence of the health of the place, and that at present it is remarkably free from the disorder, though it always exists there more or less. Tlth. — We received a packet from the Bible Office, Petersburg, with the continuation of the sheets of Scripture Lessons, sixteen to thirty. We also received an interesting letter from M. M. Toutsclikoff, mentioned at page 46, and a kind one fi-om Admiral Greig, inclosing my plans for the care of the poor, schools, &c., with which he is much pleased, and has had them copied ; he says he has already acted upon my suggestion, and has taken measures to send four yonng men to Kiov to learn the school system. 28^/^. — ^AYe went to the Lyceum de Richlieu, where there are one hundred and thirty boys under the care of the Abbe Nicolai. I reminded him of the vast importance of moulding the minds of youth to morality and virtue, for on them were placed our hopes for the generation which is to follow us ; but it seems that a literary 1819,] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 91 education is the supreme object here. The boys wlio have distbi- guished themselves in the week, dine with the Governor on first-day ; all the pupils have httle separate apartments."^ There is a 'Gymnase des Demoiselles/ which is supported by the town, where eighty girls are taught. We were much pleased uith this school, as the education of the poor girls in Russia is at j^esent almost totally neglected." Several of the succeeding days were much occupied in visiting the various institutions at Odessa. They also went to see the Quarantine Station. William Allen says — " In riding there I felt calm and resigned in the prospect of going into parts infested with the plague, with something of a sweet confidence that if I were even suffered thus to fall, it would be in performing what I feel to be a duty, and I have a hmuble confidence that, in that case, my dear Master would take me to himself. I have often a good deal to bear up against, but am at times helped with secret support. We visited the school for Greeks, which is in part kept up by voluntary contributions among the Greek merchants ; they are determined to adopt the British system, and tluree Greeks called upon us tliis evening. I find that there are difficulties in the way of introducing it into the Greek islands, under the Turks, who, for want of sufficiently understanding it, are afraid of its encour- aging a mihtary disposition ; but "o'e must get the plan explained to the Greek Patriarch of Constantinople, who is represented to us as a wen informed person. These Greeks advise us to go by land from Corinth to Patras, which they say is a high road, and thence by boat to Zante, where there is a good place for Quaran- tine; they are to give us the names of some serious people in * William Allen was strongly impressed with the advantages of this plan ; he considered it calculated to lead to very favom-able results, and in adopting a similar arrangement for a certain number of boys, whom he received as boarders at Ids manual labour school, at Lindlield, in Sussex, he mentioned the Lyceum de Kichlieu, at Odessa, as having afforded an instructive example on this point, and one which he often thought, if opportunity offered, he shoidd like to follow. 9£ LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Greece. They are eager to translate the Scripture Lessons into Greekj and if we find that it is not ah-eady in hand in the Greek islands, they engage to do it themselves. This was a most inter- esting conference. After they left us, we went to pay a visit to James Pennel, a young man from Exeter, Avho attends the meet- ings of Friends. After some conversation we settled down in silence. Stephen and I each had something to communica^, and we were comforted together. Seventh Month \st. — We attended, by invitation, the meeting of the Committee of the Bible Society. There were more than twenty present, .and though we could not understand their lan- guage, we were comforted. At the head of the table sat the Arcliimandrite Theophilus, dressed in the costume of the Greek church, and by liim General Inzoff, a very nice man, and the colleague of Contineas in the dh-ection of the colonies. Among the company were two priests, and several persons with orders ; also a deputation of boys from the external school at the Lyceum, who have raised a subscription and formed a society among themselves. They have regularly appointed a secretary and treasurer, and when they meet, one of the committee always sits with them. It was truly a dehghtful sight, and particularly as the Abbe Nicolai, who is at the head of the institution, is opposed to the Bible cause, and will not suffer those who are in the internal school, over whom he has full control, to be members of this juvenile association, though many of the children wish for it. Wliile we were present, however, a subscription was received, which had been forwarded by their parents expressly on their behalf. We find that the Jesuitical spirit is so strong here, that a priest in one of the neighbouring Eoman CathoHc colonies, collected the Bibles and some books on religious subjects, which belonged to the people, and bm'ut them in the middle of the place. There was laid on the table of the committee room the first parcel of the Russian Testaments, as far as the four gospels. After the committee, we gratified ourselves by taking particular notice of our juvenile friends, and contributing towards their fund. The Archimandrite who lives in apartments at the Lyceum, invited us to come and take tea with liim, which we did. General 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 93 Inzoff and his aid-de-camp, a Christian Turk, a man of great respectabihty and consequence, who is a member of the committee, with several others were also of the party. It was a deeply interest- ing evening. Divine truth was clearly set forth, and they seemed quite prepared for it. They acknowledged the influence of the Holy Spirit, and the propriety of waiting in silence for his teaching. The Archimandrite said, that when we come to know Christ to be to us, the living substance, outward forms were unnecessary, and that he considered them only of use to bring to the substance. Much sweetness was to be felt throughout this long conversation, which I believe, most, if not all, will remember as long as they live. Before we separated, the Archimandrite himself, requested tliat we might sit a little in silence, which we did, and there was a precious solemnity, the Lord himself, I humbly trust, by his Spirit, being in the midst of us. We took an affectionate leave, recei\dng a hearty salutation from the Archimandrite^ the general^ and the secretary. Seventh Month 2nd. — Tlie inspector, Flouke, called and took us to see the wife of Volhof, the commandant of Moscow. She had evidently heard of our visit to the Bible committee yesterday, and strongly condemned the Juvenile Bible Association. She seemed also to disapprove of the Bible in schools. I remarked to her, that it was rather curious that objections should be made to a book containing the purest system of knowledge, when none was made to pagan authors, such as Ovid and Horace, whose wntings contained what was injurious to morals. 1th. — We went to General Inzoff"' s, and had a short, but very agreeable interview with liim. We endeavoured to secure his friendship for the poor Malakans, in which we think we succeeded. He parted with us very aff'ectionately." Soon afterwards William Allen and Stephen Grellet went on board the Lord Cathcart, a vessel of about seven hundred tons burden, to proceed to Constantinople. W. A. says — " I was glad to leave Odessa, though well satisfied in having been there. We have prepared our report to the Emperor, and look back upon our labours in Russia ^ith much peace." 94 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Amongst the subjects alluded to iu this report, is the following- useful hint : — '' In visiting some of the libraries in the universities and gymnasia, we were particularly struck with the importance of a judicious selection of books. We deem the writings of Voltaire and the French philosophers, extremely dangerous in the hands of inexperienced youth, and even some of the classical authors contain sentiments, and excite ideas, calculated to favour the natural cor- ruption of the human heart. With respect to the classics, we think that those editions only should be used, wherein care has been taken to leave out objectionable passages." William Allen often keenly felt his separation from those whom he loved, and with whom he was accustomed to mingle in religious fellowship, and he writes — • " Cut off from all, I have no other comfort but that which I am graciously favoured to feel internally, and which is not withheld, — at least, such a portion is granted as keeps me from sinking ; but it is a sifting time. We hear that the plague is very hot in a Turkish fi'igate, at Constantinople, and in two other vessels, so that the prospect is solemn in going to such a place. About five o'clock the captain arrived, but previously, Captain Brown, of the Resignation, of Scarborough, came on board ; we soon found that he was a sohd agreeable man, that his owners were the Tindalls, of Scarborough, and that he had on board James TindaU, the brother of my friend William Tindall, of London ; we regretted that we did not know of it before; however, the Captain hailed the vessel, and in about half-an-hour James came on board. We were refreshed with some serious conversation together, and parted in love, giving him a volume of Friends' tracts." W. A. was, in several instances, called upon for the exercise of his medical skill, and during the voyage he prescribed for three of the crew who were poorly, and who appeared materially to benefit by his treatment of them. 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 95 On first-day he mentions having felt a good deal on account of the poor sailors on board, and his wish that way might open to assemble them for reading, &c. Stephen Grellet was poorly, and William Allen felt some discouragement, but at length he says — "I told the Captain that we wished to see such of liis men together as could be spared and were inclined for it, in order to read a few chapters to them and have a pause afterward. To this he readily agreed, and in a few minutes the greater part of them were assembled on the quarter-deck ; I was glad to see one of my poor patients come up and join the company; they all behaved with great respect and propriety. I briefly explained to them the object of our meeting, and then read the fifth and sixth chapters of Matthew, and the first of John. They were very quiet, and after a pause I was led to address them at some length ; Stephen (who was able to be present) said he was glad of this opportunity, and I felt peace and satisfaction. I am often very low, but have a humble confidence in the all-preserving arm of the Lord. I feel that I have no other trust. Seventh Month \%th. — ^^'e can distinctly see the hght-house on the southern point of the opening between the liills at the mouth of the Bosphorus ; their ever varying form contributes much to the beauty of the scene. In the afternoon we were so close to the coast of Asia, that we could distinctly see the rocks, trees, grass, &c. I thought of that passage in which Paul speaks of 'the trouble which came to us in Asia.^ We are now approaching the scene of the Apostle^s labom-s. The Bosphorus is about one mile and a half broad. The hills on each side, rising from tliree hundred to eight hundred feet, undulate beautifully, and the views are very fine. The strong current which always sets this way, together with a fair wind, hurried us rapidly along, and at half-past six, we anchored in the Bay of Constantinople, opposite the palace. The Bay is about two miles and a half broad, and is almost surrounded by hills, on which are numerous houses intermixed with trees. There are many stone buddings with domes, which I suppose are mosques, and 96 LIFE AND CORRESPOXDEXCE [1819. there are also a great many minaretSj wliicli are plain tall pillars, with a gallery round the top, where a person goes at certain hours to caU "■ the faithful ' to prayers. On the opposite side is Scutarij which seems almost as large as Constantinople, and is situated on the side of several hills; here also, trees are inter- spersed among the houses, wliich are generally of wood, about two or three stories high ; they are covered with pan-tiles, and form a beautiful pictui'e from the water; but on going into the gloomy, filthy streets of Constantinople, the contrast is indeed great. The plague is beginnuig to be very active, so that we must use great caution, and have determined to sleep on boai'd the vessel to-night, in order that we may make full inquii-y about our lodging place. Seventh Month \'^th. — After breakfast the Captain had his boat out, and accompanied us on shore. The streets are so narrow, and the upper stories overhang so much, that in some places the inhabitants might easily shake hands with each other out of the windows. We went to the counting-house of Niven Kerr and Company, to enquire for our letters ; amongst them was one from William Eorster, jun., addressed to Stephen, with a copy of the minutes of the Yearly Meeting of men and women Priends, expressive of their unity and sympathy with us. This was very cordial and reviving, and came just in the right time, when we are exposed to peril, and have to strive to bear up under om* burdens. This journey is a constant exercise of faith to us both. I was rejoiced to find a large box of books arrived from Loudon, and also one from Dr. I^^audi, of Malta, containing a supply of Greek Testaments, &c. We walked about a mile and a half to Pera, at the head of the Bay, to call on Thomas Nixon Black, who was not at home ; w-e then concluded to dehver our letters of recommendation to our Ambassador, Sir Robert Liston, who resides at the palace not far distant ; one of the letters was fi'om N. Yansittart, and the other from Lord Cathcart. We soon obtained admission, and after a little conversation respecting who we were, our objects, the inns here, &c., he told us there was only one he could recommend, and kindly added, that if we were not suited to our minds, we should be quite welcome to apartments witli him. He pressed us to dine 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 97 with him at five o' clocks and we accepted his invitation. We then took leave, and went to the principal Dragoman of the Sultan, the Ambassador sending a person with us to show us the way, and a Janissary to keep the people from crowding us. The Dragoman speaks many languages, and English among the rest ; he received us in a very affable manner, and gave free permission for our baggage to be passed untouched, on the faith of the Ambassador. At length we met J. N. Black, a man of mild and very pleasing manners, and on conversing with him about the inn, &c., he said there was some risk in our going there, and generously offered us apartments in his own house, on the hill very near Sir E. Liston's. NSver did I so deeply feel hospitality cordial, as upon this occasion, and we gladly accepted his offer. After some toil in going for our baggage, &c., we at length arrived at our quarters, and thoroughly enjoyed our comfortable chambers, with good accom-. modation for washing, and a spacious sitting room adjoining. We went to the ambassador's to dinner, and were most kindly received. Lady Liston was very affable and attentive, and I had much interesting conversation with Sir Robert ; when he invited us to dine with him again to-morrow, his lady added, ' Come every day whilst you stay, and walk in the grounds whenever you like.'* Thus is M'ay made for us from place to place. We met several persons at dinner, amongst whom was the consul's wife from Adrianople, and a clergyman of the name of Connor, who, I believe, is a missionary, a friend of Josiah Pratt's; he came from a place at some distance on purpose to see us, and accompanied us to our lodgings, when our host permitted him to sleep on a sofa, ^^'ithout going to the inn. Seventh Month 14//^. — We again went to dine with Su- Eobert Liston, who had iu\dted the head Dragoman of the Sultan to meet us, and also his son-in-law, whose name is Shoobert ; they are Eomau Catholics and not Turks. The latter seemed much struck with the system of the British and Foreign School Society, and we are to give him a Manual. He has engaged to accompany us to the prison to-morrow. 15///. — After breakfast we retired to our own room, read our chapter, and then sat some time in silence, wlien we were favoured VOL. II. H 98 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. with our blessed Master's peace. Though in the midst of danger, I have no doubt of being in the way of ray duty. O, what a favour! for if there had been doubts 7ioiv, what should I do? The Dragoman and Shoobert came here, and thankfuUy received some books and tracts. Shoobert seems very zealous for the plan of educa- tion. He says there is no plague in the prison^ and having obtained leave of the Bashaw, he accompanied us to visit it. We Avent through a large burying ground, where there seems scarcely room for another grave. A great number of the upright stone slabs have a carved turban at the top, the form of which varies accord- ing to the class of the deceased; those for women are plain. They bury the body just under the surface, and without a coffin, placing only some loose boards over the remains. This, of course, renders the place very offensive, and occasionally the effect extends to a considerable distance. There was not the least classification in the prison, which is extremely filthy. One of the temporary prisons was, however, very clean, 1 suppose in consequence of the fear of the plague. There are about forty of these in different parts, mostly on the same plan. We were told that a Greek merchant, who supports a school in the island of Pares, wished to see us, and we accordingly waited upon him with a copy of the Manual. He seems to be a sedate, clever, benevolent person ; there was another Greek merchant present, who appeared much interested in religious conversation. Wc explained our system of schools, and I have no doubt of tlicir hearty co-operation in whatever may lie attempted of the kind in the islands. We were not a little satisfied \r\.i\\ this interview. Seventh Month \Qth. — After breakfast. Sir E. Listen and his lady sent for us to go with them in their boat to Beeyuk-teri, the residence of all tlic diplomatic characters here, except Sir Robert Liston. It is about fourteen miles hence; we wTre rowed by seven Turks, each \\\\\\ a piiir of oars, and soon came to Lcander's Tower, from which one of the views of Constantinople, as exhibited in the Panornma. is taken. The course of the Bosphorus is so \\iii(ling, that we seemed ])assing through ;t succession of beautiful lakes, 1819.] . OF WILLIAM ALLEN. UU and the prospects, on each side, were exceedingly fine. Sir Robert took us to the different ambassadors, who received us very kindly. When Baron Strogonof, the Russian Ambassador, had read Prince A. Galitzin's letter, he said that the Prince had desired him to show us every imaginable attention, and he offered us all the assistance in his power. Refreshments were set out for us at the Spanish Ambassador's. We had much conversation with his wife, and were struck with the soundness of her remarks. Here we were joined by the Austrian and Neapolitan Ministers, the latter. Count Ludof, seems a sensible agreeable man ; I was glad to find that he was favourable to schools, and he says tliey are preparing to establish one at Naples. I had also some talk with the Austrian Minister, who thinks our plan would be very useful in several places in his country. We thought this a very important opportunity. Sir Robert proposed our just landing at the Asiatic side, which we did, and walked about a little; the soil appears to be very good, and there is a rich bottom of the smallest-leaved clover I have ever seen. Our rowers were fine stout men, but I pitied them, as during the fast of Ramazaii the Turks must neither eat nor drink till sunset. Being aided by the current, we got back about five, and dined at the palace, Avhere we were treated with the utmost kindness. In the cool of the evening we walked in the beautiful gardens, where I explained the btisiness and progress of the British and Foreign School Society to James Connor, who is sent out by the Church Missionary Society, and to a fine young man named Page, who is a draughtsman, and accompanies an English gentleman of fortune on his travels. We went afterwards to the Greek merchant's, and had farther reUgious conversation, with the same persons as before. The sub- ject of schools seems now to be left in a very good train. Seventh Month 18M. — Pirst-day. We retii'ed after breakfast for the purpose of worship, when 1 felt much peace and tranquillity of mind ; I spent most of the day in- my own room, except at meals. 19//^. — I had a letter by the Russian post from the Princess IMestchersky, in which she says that the ladies at Tver arc begin- ning to work, the plan having been sent to Petersburg and H 2 100 LIFE AXD CORRESPONDENCE [1819. approved. I went over to Lady Liston, to put her voltaic batteries in order. She and Sir Eobert have been so exceedingly kind to us, tliat I feel it a duty to do what I can to gratify them, and I have spent the morning in fresh cementing the cells, &c., and in preparing for some experiments to-morrow, when they are to have several of the Foreign Ministers to dinner. To-day we were but a small party, and had a great deal of agreeable conversation. Seventh Month '^^th. — Was early at Sir Robert Liston' s, when I arranged the three troughs, made hydrogen and oxygen, &c., and prepared for the exhibition this evening. Campbell, a young man who is a visitor there, was very clever in assisting. At dinner we had the Prussian Minister, the Austrian Secretary, &c., &c. The troughs acted admirably, and we burnt charcoal with great splendour, hred gunpowder, and made other experiments. The wife of the Spanish Minister, Jobert, was there, and was much pleased to hear that a parcel of books had been sent to her. 22Kr/. — Our kind friend Black, has given us several letters of recommendation. I have been packing up my tilings and pre- paring to set off, and have been humbled in reflecting how our merciful Saviour always gives strength and spirits and courage, equal to the day, and just when they are most wanted. He never fails. The kindness of Sir Eobert Liston, now advanced in life, has been truly paternal. Lady Liston, also, from our first meeting her, has treated us with marked kindness and attention. We called to take leave of them, and Sir Robert gave us seven letters of recommendation, besides one general one. Moore, one of the young men from T. N. Black's, is going in the same vessel with us to Smyrna, also the Consul of Adrianople and his wife. We got off about four o'clock. 23rr/. — It is excessively hot and we are quite becalmed. In the afternoon I read a great deal in the Bible. "^hth. — I read the Bible most of this morning; while by myself, leaning over the head of the vessel, and observing the waves breaking against the ship, a sweet serenity covered my mind, and I was enabled to pray mentally for the preservation of my dear child, my precious aged mother, my dear brothers, and others, under somewhat of a heavenly feeling and. confidence. In the 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 101 afternoon I was tendered in reading this passage in the beautiful prayer of Solomon at the dedication of the Temple, ' Blessed be the Lord, there hath not failed one word of all his good promise/ No, His faithfulness endureth for ever, and the want of faithfulness on our part, is the cause of all our miseries. Remember this, O my soul ! Seventh Month 'i&th. — We are in the Gulf of Smpna; as we advance, the city of Sm}T:na appears on the right hand, in a fine bay, surrounded by irregular hills. AVe came to an anchor between one and two o'clock. I was glad to find by some Englislimen who came on board, that they are now very free from the plague. The first part of the city is inhabited by the Greeks and Turks ; the Clu-istian, or Frank quarter, is beyond this, and is much better. The streets are narrow, and the houses are covered with pun-tiles like those of Constantinople. The English Consul was not at home, but his son, the Vice-Consul, sent his Dragoman to give orders for the release of our baggage, without being touched by the people of the Custom House; this was a great relief, as I was anxious about it on account of the plague, to which they are continually exposed here, by the arrival of persous and goods from Egypt. An English merchant, named Purdie, was very kind in going with us to an inn which the Consul recommended ; it is in a street about two or three steps wide, but we are better off than I expected, and are thankful in being thus far settled. I am encouraged by what I hear of the willingness of the Greeks and Armenians to promote the education of their cliildren. 21tJi. — My mind was sweetly calmed and comforted this mornmg ; read in the Testament as usual. Our kind friend John the Dragoman brought us a present of some fine peaches from his own garden. We went to dine with David Offley, who \\as formerly a member of our society, and some of his family were known to Stephen m America. He is lately married to a second wife, a young Greek of respectable family ; he has three sons with him, who appear to be nice lads; I thiiik this visit will not be Avithout its use. 9.Wi. — We were introduced by J. K. Fisher, the partner of T. N, Black, to a very agreeable Greek Dragoman, who conducted 102 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1S19. US to the chief person over the customs, a Turkish Prince, the Bey Efl'endi, who has a very excellent character for strict integrity and great hberahty of sentiment. He is much superior to many of the Turkish prejudices, and takes precautions against the plague, which the illiterate Tm'ks consider almost as impious ; but he says that Mahomet has told him in the Al Koran, that if you have to pass a wall which leans, you are at liberty to choose your side, and need not absolutely go under it ; and with this saying of the prophet he defends himself. lie invited us up an open stair-case into a very large room, in the centre of w'hich was a glass of water, with three of the most beautiful tuberoses I ever saw. Pipes were brought us of the sort generally used in this country ; they are of wood, about four feet long; after that a cup of coffee, and then sherbet in cut glass bowls. The Bey had something very inild and agreeable in liis countenance, and seemed quite pleased with our visit. There were several other Turks present. After staying some time we took our leave, but it is agreed that we are to see him again. We called upon some intelligent Greek merchants, to whom we had letters of recommendation, and explained to them the objects of our journey, and the nature of the British School plan, and they seem quite prepared to promote it. AVe left with them a .Maiural, and wcvc well |)leased witli our visit. We have engaged a person as servant, who speaks Frencli, Cijeck, Italian, and TLU'kish; lie has travelled with Lord Guildford, and is well recommended." The few following days were chiefly devoted to the inspection of prisons, schools, and hospitals, and by a little timely aid to sonic of the prisoners, essential service was conferred upon several. There are two Greek schools in Smyrna; one for three hundred boys was endowed by will, and v.as under the direction of the English. It appeared that the Scriptures were not read in either of the schools ; this was a strong inducement to urge the establishment of the British and Foreign system, to which f.ome of the parties were favourable. 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN, 103 Seventh Month 2>\st. — After breakfast wc set out to take Icave^ as we purpose to try to get off by the boat for Scio. We staid some time with the Bey Effendi, and afterwards heard that he was pleased with the visit ; he was much more open than before, and expressed some sentiments worthy of a Christian. He said in effect, that, as God is love, and the Father of the whole human race, all mankind ought to love one another, as one family, and that it was with this family as with the human body; if one of the mem- bers was in pain, the whole suffered. He understands geography exceedingly well, and seemed pleased in showing us an Atlas printed by the Tui'ks about ten years ago. In the evening we had the company of an Englishman, whom we encouraged in the Bible cause, and about half past ten at night, went on board the boat for Scio. It was managed by two Greeks, and was quite open. I lay for some time contemplating the stars, which are very beautiful in this conntry, and then fell asleep." CHAPTER XIV. 1819 — 1820. — Scio — Voyage in the Archipelago — Atheus — Corinth — Patras — Quarantine at Zante — Serious TUness — Corfu — S. Grellet pro- ceeds to Italy — W. Allen to Malta — State of Education — Institutions — Voyage to Civita Vecchia — Quarantine — Rome — Florence — Milan — Pass of Mount Cenis — Geneva — Paris — Arrival at Home. ''Eighth Month \st, 1819. — We lay at anchor part of the night, and in the morning, our boatmen hoisted sail and proceeded; but the wind proving too strong, they ran us into a bay in English Island. There are no trees, and there is scarcely any thing to afford shelter from the burning sun ; but we put up our sail for a tent, brought our provision box on shore, and boiled some water for oui break- fast. Not far from us, were some arches, where, at a remote period, a large city had evidently stood ; some Turks, or Greeks, live in apartments at the end of these ruins, and I was a little startled to see some of them with sabres and large pistols stuck in their girdles. Soon after we left the place, we heard them firing : here we were — humanly speaking — completely in their hands; two boats, containing more armed men, arrived ; and, whilst I was walking about, a Turk came up from the ruins. Martini, our servant, had disappeared, and there was no one to interpret ; but I accosted him with frankness, and he went into our tent and sat down on the corner of the mattress where Stephen was lying; by this time, another armed man came up, and I then thought they might be some of the banditti, mentioned to us by the Consul, who rob, and then murder to make all sure. I thought it right to betray no fear, and stood close to the principal one, while he took out his cartridge, and primed and loaded his pistol ; he then sat down and levelled it at a little stone on a stake he had just set up; he missed his aim, charged again, and again missed. I did not know but we might be his next mark, and tried to find Martini, without 1819.] LIFE A>JD CORRESPONDENCE, &C. 105 going too far from the tent, but in vain. The Turks kept charging and firing for sonic time; at lengtli Martini made his appearance, and we had some conversation through him. I beheve their object merely was to shew us tJieir feats, and to see if we had any Enghsh pistols, which they value very much. I told him, with much simplicity, that we were a sort of people who never used them at all — that we loved all mankind, without distinction of country or religion, and wished to do them good, and that we felt prohibited from doing injury to any; after a good deal more con- versation they went away. In the evening we lay down on our mattresses in the tent, and I slept soundly. About four o'clock we were roused with the intelhgence that the boatmen were getting ready, and that the Turks and Greeks were also moving ; the wind was liowever too strong to admit of our proceeding far, for having rowed out of the bay and tacked several times, we were obliged to run into anotlier part of the island for shelter. We again pitched our tent upon shore, and had to remain stationary for several days, but we got clear of the Turks. A boat landed with tliree or four coiners of false money, who carry on their operations here, but our presence disturbed them, and in a few hours they set sail. I found a nice cool retreat under a rock, by the sea shore, where I often retired, and read a great deal in the Bible. I saw part of a human skull and several human bones bleacliing on the sand. Eighth Month ^th. — About four o'clock in the morning, the wind having abated, we made our escape, and after running about five hours, came in sight of the high lands of Scio. At haK-past one we arrived, but the throng of boats and people at landing was very disagreeable; we soon found that no quarantine was necessary, and went to the so-called inn, where the chief business is to sell wine and spirits, but the people were ver}^ civil. Most of the persons to whom we have letters are out of town. Scio is a large island, containing about one hundred thousand inhabitants; there are eighty thousand Greeks, and they have more liberty here than in any other part of the Turkish empire. The town is of the same name. hth. — The Consul, Guidici, called this morning, and was very fivil. He does not like the place we are in, and made us the offer 106 LIPE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. of apartments at his house in town. He lives, at present, at a Kttle distance in the country, and, as it seemed to be done heartily, we accepted his kindness. The first person we visited was Neophite Bambas, a Greek priest at the head of the great academy here, which, in town and country, affords instruction to six hundred boys, and to many of them, in the higher branches. He appears to be a very amiable man, and of liberal sentiments ; he has not only heard of our school system, but has actually begun to prepare the first lessons in spelling in common Greek, and gave me some of the impressions. They have just received a fount of types from England, and he has a printing press upon the premises. He seems to be just the man for me, and must be the correspondent for this place, which is at the head of all the Greek Islands in the Archipelago, for here most of the opulent Greeks reside. We delivered oiu: letters, and were universally received with great respect and attention. The Turkish Governor gave us coffee, and offered us every assistance in his power. I do not find that the Scriptures are used at all in the schools here, and, from, the conversation with Bambas, having reason to hope that he might be induced to adopt the Russian Lessons, I determined to bring them before him in a perfect state, as far as the New Testament part : therefore, after supper, we began to cut up two Greek Testaments, and to paste the texts on paper, which occupied us till about midnight. Eighth Month Qth. — We remained in the house all day, incessantly occupied in making the Lessons from the New Testament, and finished them by about twenty minutes past twelve at night. 1th. — Having an appointment to meet Professor Bambas, we went about tlu'ee or four miles into the country, where he has also a school, at which an examination is to take place, and after that is over, we are to dine with Tragkuli liodocanaki, one of the first merchants in this country. We hired three mules for the day, as the streets are so narrow, and the roads so full of stones, that no carriage of any sort is to be seen — at least we have not nict with any. Thers" ;i;(^ upward^ of two tniiulvrd (■hil(ii;('';i va this srhoof. 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 107 Several of them had most interesting countenances, expressive of mind and talent. The Greeks arc-a people eminently worth caring for, and wide is the field of usefulness here. Our excellent friend, Bambas, had much difficulty in the first establishment of this school, and many prejudices to encounter, but the good effects of it are now so apparent, that some of its most powerful enemies have withdrawn their opposition, and are become its supporters : but there is still a great deal of ignorance and bigotry, suspicion and intrigue, among these people, so that it requii-es much patience and perseverance, in any attempt to enlighten them and do them good; but there are still some excellent men who are heai-tily bent upon the diffusion of light and knowledge, and at the head of them are Professor Bambas and Tragkuli Rodocanaki, Mtev the examination, we went to the house of the latter, to dine with Bambas, &c. We had a great deal of conversation upon various subjects, amongst the rest, education, and the importance of introducing the Holy Scriptures into the schools, for at present they have only their catecliism. We now produced the set of Greek Lessons which we had prepared for them from the New Testament. Bambas seemed quite delighted, and said, ^Surely Divine Providence has sent you here.' He engaged to correct the language, the translation not being a good one, and to print them at his press. We are to give hun a list of the texts for the other two parts. Rodocanaki is the particular friend and supporter of Bambas. He has a very extensive garden, containing a wood of orange and lemon trees, from fifteen to twenty feet high, growing in the open ground. At the roots they dig a wide circular place to hold water, and these are all connected by trenches, and Avatered in the evening from a reservoir, suppUed from a deep well by machinery. The vines are low, like those in the South of Prance ; but he has, besides, lofty treUisses, supported by pillars of rough hewn stone, about twenty feet high. The fine large clusters of grapes hanging down, and the long festoons of leaves, have a very rich appearance. We endeavoured to improve the opportunity to open their minds to the importance of education, and pressed upon tliem the necessity of employing our method of instruction for the children of tlie poorest classes, most of wliom f re gro\nng up in 108 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. great ignorance^ though their parents are eager to have them taught. Eighth Month 8th. — I was occupied some time in copying the texts for all the Scripture Lessons, which I did in my letter book, in order to have a copy for Bambas, and one for the bishop, whom we are to see to-morrow. I felt sweet peace of mind, which I received as an evidence that good will arise from it. We went to visit a Greek family, with ^A•hom we staid the night, and finding that an Armenian of considerable influence, who hved not far distant, wished to see us, we went accordingly. He is a sensible young man, of very good countenance ; he speaks French well, and seemed pleased at our arrival. The conversation turned upon religious subjects, particularly the principles of Friends, and at parting we gave him some tracts, but he begs to see us again. I felt low, and could but think how contrary my present way of life is to all my habits, and to that sweet quiet retirement which I enjoy ; and I am also cut off from those whom I dearly love.''' In a summary account of their proceedings at Scio, William Allen writes — " We have had great satisfaction in our visit to this Island : we had two conferences with the archbishop, and full opportunity for intercourse with some of the principal inhabitants, passing two or three nights at their country houses. We informed them fuUy of our religious principles, had much conversation on serious subjects, and distributed several books, with which they seemed much pleased. We have induced them to agree to form a school society here upon our plan, and the archbishop has consented to become the president. We settled it that Bambas should go to work immediately in printing the Scripture Lessons as a tract, and in this case, I engage to raise a subscription in England to take some hundred copies. It would be worth coming to Greece for these objects alone. Bambas intends to translate into modern Greek, and print, the 'Thoughts on the Importance of Religion,' and other tracts which we have given liim. Pierre Corpy, a Latin catholic, resident at Grand Cairo, has called several times upon us. He is a serious character, and we 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 109 liad much conversation with him. We gave him a good selection of Friends' books^ also a Manual^ and one for Ali Pacha^ the chief of that country. In our second visit to the Armenian he entered warmly into the subject of schools^ and accepted^ with pleasure, a copy of the Manual. He promised to use his influence to promote education in Armenia, and observed that we could not bestow upon his country a more substantial service, than by introducing our system. He says that on his return he will seek out a young man of talent, and send him to our institution in England. This was a very important interview. Eighth Month l^th. — We hired a boat to take us to Athens. It has a deck, but the space under it is only from two to three feet, and our mattresses were laid upon the ballast, but in this climate and season there is no fear of rain, and the sun holds on his course, from morning till night, without a cloud. Our crew consists of four men, including the captain, and wliilst we were waiting for the latter to come on board, I saw a Turkish vessel of eight guns, wliich is employed to bring African slaves from the Algerine coast. This country affords a striking proof that sanguin- ary measures on the part of a government do not protect the com- munity, for though, under the Tui-kish government, they think little of drowning eighty or a hundred men in a night, as they have actually done since we have been among them, yet assassinations are common, and, but lately, a person coming from Smyrna to Scio was murdered by the boatmen, merely to get possession of one hundred and fifty piastres or about five guineas. We left the shore about half-past eleven, but these people are miserable sailors, and though the wind was fair for us, they thought it too strong, and we had not sailed much more than an hour, when they came to anchor towards the south end of the island, and here we stayed all day. In the afternoon we took a walk to a monastery, and met with some priests, who live there like hermits. They were very civil, and sent a boy with us to show us where the mastic trees grow, from which the gum is procured. This tree is pecuhar to Scio, and' the villages where it is cultivated are privileged, and free from imposts by the Turks. There are about thirty of 110 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. them. We met with a peasant who prevailed upon us to go into his little vineyard, where we 'sat down under the shade of some rocks ; he soon brought a dish, a bottle of water, and two very large clusters . of most excellent grapes, together with some figs. He put the fruit in water to cool it, and I think I hardly ever eat finer grapes. We, in return, gave him some Greek tracts ; for some of the English tracts have been translated and printed at Constantinople, and Dr. Naudi has also sent us a box of Greek Tracts and Testaments for distribution. The poor peasant cannot read, but he says his wife can, and we gave him to understand, through ]\Iartini, that if he came down to the beach we would give him a Testament; he accordingly accompanied us with great alacrity, running for full three miles, wdthout shoes or stockings, over rough stones which hurt me through my shoes. He received the Testament with the liveliest expressions of gratitude, kissing Stephen's hand, and putting it to his head. We also gave Greek tracts to two lads who came with him, and they seemed quite pleased to receive them. The sun has been burning hot to-day; it is in these climates that one feels the full force of that text, ' Lilce the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.'' I have bathed and had a nice swim this evening.'" The want of skill in the boatmen rendered this navigation very tedious, and great were the privations endured by the tra- vellers, in their protracted voyage of eleven days from Scio to Athens. W. Allen mentions the beauty of the constellations, and the opportunity they had of noticing them, when they " had no other canopy than the starry heavens :" and their little bark did not afford them protection from the waves, which sometimes dashed in and completely drenched them. One morning, after having anchored in a little bay, he says — " A long boat, full of men, made its appearance ; at first it was rather alarming, as there are pirates in these seas, who generally murder as well as rob, and we had heard that a boat had just been stolen from Smyrna by soim^ of these desperate j)coplc; we however 1819.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. Ill found, througli Martini, that tlicir object was fishing; we bought some fish, and they came in very well, as oui* meat and eggs are gone/' At Stenis, in the Island of Andros, they went on shore, and having walked to a village, found that even here there was a school for boys; they, however, learnt that there was no copy of the Scriptures, and accordingly left a Greek Testament, with an injunction to the priest, that a chapter, at least, should be read to the children whenever they assembled. Some Gi'eek tracts were also distributed. On the 19th of Eighth Mouth, William Allen writes— " As we were passing very slowly in a dead calm, between the Islands of Andros and Tinos, the captain sav/ a suspicious sail at the entrance of the channel before us. We had been a little alarmed by a boat, which hailed us this morning, informing him that, in that place, they had been fired upon last night by pirates, but being favoured by the wind, they had escaped. With this sail there was a long row-boat in company, full of men ; they stood just in the middle of the passage, but soon separated; the sail went behind some high rocks to the right, the other to the left, as if waiting for us. I got out my telescope and observed them; the captain was in a great friglit and said they were the robbers; they were still at a distance of six or seven miles from us, but with my glass, I could distinctly see their manceuvres. The vessel with the sail came out again from the point of the rock, then returned. Our boatmen ceased rowing for some time ; the vessel again came out, as if to see what we would do, and its motions were m^ade with such celerity, there being scarcely a breath of wind, as to leave no doubt that they had oars and many men. We hinted, through Martini, that perhaps they were not robbers, and that we might risk it, but all our crew united in saying, that these pirates showed no mercy, and always murdered when they robbed. The captain was much agitated, when we saw through the glass two or three more of these vessels come out from behind the rock, and co backwards and forwards. A small 112 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. vessel was in the distance, passing across the end of the channel, and one of our suspicious vessels went rapidly towards it. By this time the captain had determined to turn about and seek a harbour in Tinos, so we must thus lose another day ; he had been very lazy smoking his pipe before, but now he began to pull at the oars in earnest. We had many miles to row before we could get to a place of safety hi Tinos, and we were badly equipped and manned, so that if the suspicious vessels had rowed after us, in all human probability, we should have been an easy prey, bat they still hovered about the point of the rock. I kept my teles- cope in my hand, watching them, and at length two of them went across to Syra, and the others returned to their lurking place. We gradually, by mere dint of rowing, approached the corner of Thios, and when our men thought themselves safe, they again commenced their smoking. In the evening we went into a harbour on the Island, from whence they ship a great deal of marble, some of which is very beautiful. I took a solitary walk into the interior of the country, and sat down by a little well, surrounded by marble ; here, with my mind retired before the Lord, I was sweetly comforted in the spirit of prayer. Before we started, we distributed some tracts to the people, and these being shown to others, several were so eager for them, that they came on board, and we gave away a good many, and also a Greek Testament." The next day, in approaching the island of Zea, they encoun- tered a very heavy sea, and he says — "Por two or three hom's our situation was a^^'fui, but my mind was favoured with a precious degree of calm and quiet. The wind at length abated, and about eleven o'clock we got into harbour. I felt very thankful for this deliverance. jEighth Month %\st. — I took a walk by myself up the rocks, and found a recess where I had a sweet time in mental prayer ; access seemed freely granted to petition for my dear aged mother, my precious cliild, and those near and dear to me, also for dear Stephen. I was tendered to tears in the sweet feelings which then accompanied my mind. Though low I am calm and satisfied 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 113 that I am in ray right place. I often think what a comfort it would be, if, now and then, for a quarter of an hour, I could have the company of some of those congenial spirits in England, with whom I have been so often refreshed. The wind being altogether unfavourable we went to the town of Zea, which is at the top of a very high hill, and the distance being about three miles, we engaged mules to take us there. We found out the British Viee-Consul, who seems an agreeable, intelligent man. He invited us into his house, where his wife and several other persons received us very kindly, and brought out fruits, &c. Here I saw, for the first time, the small grapes without stones, which, when dried, form what we call dried currants; they are merely a small species of grape. We found that they had a school here for fifty children, and were pleased with the master, who had been a pupil of Professor Bambas. They have not the Holy Scriptures as a school book, and we gave him a Greek Testament, with a request that he would read in it daily to the children, to whom Stephen gave some advice. The master thankfully received some Greek tracts for distribution. We were very glad we had paid this visit. — The general appearance of the Greek Islands is barren, rocky, and hilly. Eighth Month 'i^th. — About three o^clock we entered the port of Athens, and were hailed by a vessel with the enquiry if a person of the name of Allen was on board, and the answer being given in the affirmative, the name of Pinker ton was returned. Thus we have met at last, though I was sorry to find that he was on the point of going off for Constantinople : had it not been for our dilatory boatmen, we might have been four or five days sooner, and laid all our plans together. As soon as we had cast anchor, we were rowed in our httle boat to the ship, and here, although I had so long known and loved the character of Dr. Pinkerton, the first interview between us took place : it was between four and five o'clock before we parted. We had a long way to ride before we reached Athens, and were very tired. Our baggage loaded five asses and a horse. I rode an ass with only a halter and no stirrups. We found a sort of an inn which had been newly opened, where we have two rooms, but no beds; we however VOL II. J 114 LIFE AND COllRESPONDENCE [1819 made use of our mattresses : this is the eleventh night since I have undressed to go to bed. Eighth Month 2^th. — We called on the British Consul, Logethe, and found out Gropius and Co., on whom we have a letter of credit, also Wrench and his friend Col. Harris, who are come from Constantinople. In the afternoon, we took a walk to see some of the ruins, and went first to the Temple of Jupiter, in the inside of wliich are several stone slabs, to the memory of some English travellers who have died here within the last few years. We saw the lofty columns of the Parthenon, Mars' Hill, and the site of the Areopagus, but it was late, and we must visit them again. The country around seems generally barren, and full of stones. %Qth. — We called at the Consul's, where we met with a person from the Ionian Islands, who is employed by the British Govern- ment as superintendent of the schools. His residence is at Corfu : he, with the Consul and some others, accompanied us to a school for seventy children, but it was the time of vacation, so we only saw the room and some of the masters. I doubt whether more than half that number actually attend. It is for boys only, and is a sort of grammar school for the classics ; it is supported, by the Athenian Society. I examined some of the books used in the school, and was grieved to find how much the most essential point of all, in education, is neglected. They teach Socrates, Eusebius, Plato, and Xenophon, but not Jesus Christ : commentaries on the Bible are tauglit, but not the Bible itself. There are several httle elementary schools, kept by females, and in them perhaps about four hundred may be receiving instruction, but education is in a very neglected state here, and no one seems to know much about it. The total number of inhabitants is said to be eight thousand, and about six thousand of them are Greeks. We visited the prison for the Greeks. I unpacked my trunks, and took out my plans for schools and for the poor ; soon after Gropius came in, and I lent him some of them to copy. He is a person of influence, and seems likely to be useful here. He can speak EngUsh. A young man Avith whom we had become acquainted in the morning, and who resides at Adrianople, called ; he is very eager 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 115 to promote the school system, and enters into our views. We gave him some tracts. Athens is surrounded by a low wall, in which are several httle gates ; it stands in a plain, from whence rises the hill on whose summit is the Acropolis, or citadel. In the afternoon we took a walk to visit Mars' Hill, where the Apostle Paul preached to the Athenians. It is a mass of rocks about one hundred and fifty feet above the plain, and below the Acropohs, wliich is much higher. The Areopagus was on the same rock. A wall runs the whole length of this rock, and that side which looks down upon Athens is Mars' HiU. On the plain beyond, the academy where Plato taught, is situated. "We now bent our course towards the Acropohs, which is surrounded by a high wall, and commands an extensive prospect. The principal ruin is that of the Temple of Minerva, which is built of fine squared blocks of exquisitely beautiful white marble. The fluted pillars, from sixty to seventy feet high, are extremely grand, but I am sorry to say that some Englishmen have barbarously defaced these beautiful remains of antiquity, which had resisted the effects of time, and escaped the hands of baxbarians for two thousand years. Eighth Month 11 th. — We called upon George Gropius, the Austrian Consul, and had much interesting conversation on the subject of schools and the distribution of tracts; he seems much disposed to promote a committee for the schools and other benevolent objects. We also called upon a Capuchin monk, who greatly desired to see us, and had a very satisfactory conference with him. In the afternoon Stefano Carateodori, the young man from Adrianople, called; he is very zealous, and says the school plan would immediately take in the island of Hydra. The population is estimated at twenty thousand, and he gave me the names of some excellent persons there. In the evening, our friend the Capuchin monk called, and we again had an interesting interview. George Gropius brought me a list of persons at Athens likely to imite in plans for the public good. 28^^/^.. — We packed up our things, and having concluded to go by land to Corinth, hired six horses and mules, three for the bag- gage, and three for ourselves. The first part of our road was over the great plain, partly cultivated in cotton and tobacco ; we then I 2 116 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. passed through an extensive wood of olive trees. On our arrival at Lipsine, we were taken in at a house which contained only a single room. There is a place parted off at one end for a horse and an ass. The inhabitants came in to us, one after the other, and we gave them some Greek tracts. We asked one of themj who was a priest, to read a little aloud, for the rest to hear, and they seemed much interested; they were particularly thankful for a Greek Testament, which we desired that the priest would read to them publicly, on a first-day afternoon, and he really seemed disposed to do it. The sun is very oppressive, but I found a shaded place among tlie ruins, where I revolved past scenes in my mind. We dined on some provisions we had brought with us, and at tliree o'clock mounted again to proceed to Megara, where there was no inn, but we were kindly received by a person who it is understood is to have something for the use of his room. A place had been built up on the roof of the house, quite open in front, and here we concluded to sleep in our clothes upon our mattresses. We find there are two schools here for boys, but no provision for the education of girls. We gave our host some Greek tracts with which he seemed much pleased, but on receiving a Greek Testament for the use of the schools, he kissed it, and put it to his head. We were very tired, and on lying down, soon fell into a sound sleep. We were quite exposed to any one who might choose to come up out of the streets to see us, the only visitor however, that we knew of, was a cat, which contrived to get at our provision basket, and made off with the remains of our cold mutton, wliich was to have served us for dinner the next day. I had a good deal of refresliing sleep. On resuming our journey the following morning, we passed over a high mountain, where there are deep declivities by the side of the road. The views towards the Archipelago are grand indeed; Egina was at our feet, and the other islands scattered about in all directions. On descending, we reach the plain, between the Gulf of Lepanto and the Gulf of Athens; Corintli hes in this plain, and is at the foot of a rock, or rather two rocks united together. We arrived about seven o'clock, and had a room at the house of a Doctor, where travellers usually go. We dined to-day on bread and the remains of a fine piece of cheese, which Lady Liston gave us at Constantinople. 1819.] OF WILLLVM ALLEN. 117 Eighth Month 2>^th. — Theocaraclii Rendi called upon us. He seems to be one of those characters whom we are in search of, and is one of the principal Greeks here. We had a good deal of serious conversation, as he understands French pretty well. We o-ave liim a Greek Testament, and some other publications. He was in a very tender state of mind, and truly rejoiced to have met ^\ith us. He quitted us reluctantly, and we embraced at parting, commending each other to divine protection. He is to corre- spond with me, and also with Bambas, of Scio, on the subject of schools particularly ; he seems deeply to feel the importance of them," and says there are a few of their principal men here, who would readily join him. We had engaged a boat to take us to Patras, and went on board by moonlight, but after a tedious and very hazardous voyage, the first part of the way, we concluded to go on shore, and pursue our course by land; we accordingly procured mules to convey us and our baggage to Yostizza. Our course lay near the gulf, and the mountains and rocks extend quite into the water, so that we were sometimes elevated tlu'ee or four hundred feet, with precipices quite down to the sea. The mountain scenery is very fine ; we met with myrtles in great quan- tities, which grow wild, like our common bushes in England. We were nearly six hours in going to Vostizza, about fifteen miles. From thence we proceeded, with fresh mules, towards Patras, stopping for a few hours at a miserable place on the road." The journey was continued; it was a tedious and difficult one; at length, on the 3rd of Ninth Month, they reached Patras ; when W. A. remarks — " We sent Martini on before with the letter of introduction to Green, the British Consul, and to enquire whether there was any accommodation for travellers, and on our arrival about eleven o'clock, he met us with the agreeable news that the Consul had found a lodging for us. We called upon him in the afternoon, and received visits from the Spanish and Dutch Consuls, who seem to be agreeable men, and we had much talk about schools, &c. ^th. — I procured information this morning with regard to the moral state of the place, which is deplorable in the extreme. 118 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Every tiling wc meet with proves the vast importance of what we are attempting to do at Scio. If any one country on the face of the earth, needs a system of universal education more than another, it is Greece. Their state of cruel subjugation has induced habits of duphcity and lying, to such a degree, that I am told scarcely a Greek is to be believed here, upon liis most solemn asseveration. When the Venetians held the Ionian Islands, their avowed policy was to demoralize the people as much as possible, and their ^vish being to reduce the Islands to such a state, as not to render them desirable by any other power, they purposely excited quarrels among those who were rich, that they might weaken one another, and licenses for assassination were regularly purchased. At present, they are happily under the government of Great Britain, and con- siderable ameliorations are taking place, but the establishment of schools, where a scriptural education is given, is of the utmost importance. We dined with the Consul, and were treated with great kindness and hospitality. We met Colonel Herries, Petriche, the superin- tendent of the schools, &c. ; we requested liim to hire a boat to take us to the island of Zante, and went on board about seven o'clock in the evening. The moon, now at the full, rose majesti- cally behind the high mountains, and a gentle breeze filled our sails ; my mind was calm and peaceful, and I lay down and had some sleep. The next morning I awoke sweetly refreshed and comforted. I was much encouraged by the reflection that, however weak and feeble the poor instruments may be, our errand is con- sonant with the language, 'On earth peace, good wiU toward men.' We reached the shore about eleven o^clock, but were obhged to wait till we had permission from the quarantine officers to go to the Lazaretto, where we are to perform quarantine. We came over at the same time with Colonel Herries, the Quartermaster General. There is a sort of railing near the shore, across which, suspected persons, as we are, may converse with those who come to see them from the town. The principal person here. Colonel Patrick Ross, had, come down, and Colonel Herries introduced me to him ; ho was very kind, and said that Sir Frederick Adam had been anxiously expecting mc on the subject of schools. We soon had our orders^ and were io\ved across the harbour to the Lazaretto. 1819.] OF WILLLVM ALLEN. . 110 Here Dr. Thomas, the head of the health department, met us; notliinir could exceed his kindness, he would not let us go into the common Lazaretto, but sent for the kejs of an old convent just behind it, which has also a garden, and had the rooms swept out for us. He stationed a guard of soldiers, to prevent all com- munication, and this is to be our prison ; fifteen days is the term at present, but we have great reason to tliink that the time will be shortened by the authorities here. We breakfast and dine with Col. Herries and his party, consisting of a young man of the name of Wrench, late chaplain at Constanthiople and a relation of Dr. Buxton's, and Plato Petrides, a Greek, who speaks English. Thus far I have seen my way clearly to accompany my dear companion, and, on many accounts, it would have been gratifying if we could have continued together to the end, but I now think it may be right for me to return home through Venice, Munich, Zurich, Geneva, and Trance ; and he increasingly feels it his duty to go to Malta, Sicily, Naples, Rome, &c. ; however, we must both endeavour seriously to consider what is required of us. On a retrospect of my long and painful journey, I feel nothing but peace, we have been carried along and preserved in a very remark- able manner, though we know ourselves to be but poor, feeble instruments, and have nothing of our own to glory in. Ninth Month \Wi. — News arrived that we were released from the quarantine. Dr. Thomas came, and he and Col. Ross have provided comfortable lodgings for us. We walked into the town, and called upon Dr. Stephano, where we met with several of the inhabitants, and from what I saw of them, I have no doubt of there being public spirit enough here, to do a great deal for the education of the chHdi'en of the poor, upon a well organised plan. After stopping at our lodgings, we went to dine with Col. Patrick Ross, who gave us a hearty welcome. He is the chief in authority here; we met a large company, amongst whom were our quarantine party. I had much interesting conversation with Col. R., who is exceedingly desirous of seeing the plan of the British and Foreign School Society adopted here, and that it should carry the Sci'ipture Lessons with it, as the foundation of a good educatioii. He is anxious for advice on the subject of prisons, and is exactly such a 120 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. man as I could have wished to find. I am now much encouraged, and hope that something effectual may be done for the Ionian Islands, which will act powerfully upon all Greece. Ninth Month Wth. — There was a tremendous thunder storm in the night, but this is a fine morning. I received a note from Colonel Herries, to inform me that Colonel Eoss would be ready at ten o" clock to accompany us to the prison and the other institutions which we wished to see. We waited upon him accordingly, and he took us first to their Monte Pieta, which is an establishment for lending money on public security, upon articles brought to be pledged. We then went to the prisons, the military and civil hospitals, and lastly to the school, but it being vacation time the children were absent. The Scriptures are not taught here, and there is no provision for the girls. I find that there is very little extreme poverty in Zante — most of the poor have a sufficiency, and many of them have small pieces of land; they depend very principally upon the produce of their vines, the fruit of which is the small grape without stones, wliich we call the Zante currants. They have also the common grapes, both white and red. \'^th. — My spirits are very low. We had our chapter as usual, and afterwards sat together in silence, when I became a httle calmed. We dined at our lodgings, and I spent the afternoon in my room. The Governor called, and presented me with a manuscript copy of the constitution of the Ionian Islands; he offered to correspond with me, and to give me information, from time to time, of their proceedings. YWi. — We breakfasted at Dr. Thomas's, and afterwards went with him to one of the villages at the foot of the mountains, where we met Colonel Ross, and all proceeded to the pitch well, a natural curiosity at some distance. Wrench was of our party — some of ns were mounted upon mules and some upon horses, and we first passed over a great plain, where we found many parts under w^ater in consequence of the late rains. I think a system of draining Avould contribute much to the healthiness of the island. We had a full view of six or seven villages at once ; some of them contani 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 1^1 above a tliousaud inhabitants, whose morals are said to be much better than those of the people in the towns, but we find that a visible improvement has taken place in tliis respect, since these islands have been in the hands of the Enghsh. On arrivuig at the viUage of Litachia, we went into some of the poorest of the houses, and in every instance, though there was little other furniture, we found good, clean, large beds. The' people are generally industrious and saving, and very tractable, so that they are easily led, either in a good or evil course. They seem to have good capacities, and are quick of comprehension, but are in almost perfect ignorance. We proceeded, over a difficult road, to the south-east end of the island, where the pitch well is situated in a marsh, about a quarter of a mile from the sea ; this well is said to be mentioned by Herodotus. It is about six feet in diameter, is circular, and built up to the surface with rough hewn stones. The bitumen appearing just like tar, rises to ■within about eight inches of the surface of the water, which is beautifully transparent, and is covered with a slight irridescent film. I could discover nothing in the taste, but a shght impregnation of tar. The spring rising up through the tar occasions it to be fidl of large bubbles. Dr. Thomas had two new stone bottles brought, one of which was filled with the water, the other with the bitumen, the latter was very thick. The water of the well was overflo\ving. The depth of the bitumen is said to be three feet; in some years it has yielded sixty barrels. I found afterwards that there is another well, similar to this, about a quarter of a mile distant, and probably there are some subterraneous branches which go into the sea, for I am told that the water is, at times, covered to some distance from the shore, with an irridescent film. On our return, the views of the sea, with the little islands in it, were very fine; part of our road Avas like going up and down a broken stone stair case. We stopped to see some large masses of crystallized sulphate of lime, and reached our lodgings a little after four; but I was cruelly tired. We rested a little, and then went to dine with Col. Eoss, where we spent a very agreeable evening. His wife is a sensible, interesting person. 122 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Ninth Month \Mh. — I feel the effects of yesterday's exertions. Prince Cornuto called^ and was very kind and civil. He is an old man, and seems to have much influence^ he speaks French, but Italian is the most common language here, next to Greek. We attended the Bible committee, and I was glad we were there, as a question arose respecting the propriety of distributing the present edition of the Greek Testament. Prince Cornuto condemned it in the strongest terms, and opposed its circulation. We asked the Proto-papa, who was in the chair, if the sense was affected by the badness of the language, but it was generally admitted that it was not ; we then said, that although the language might not be classical, yet if the poor could understand it, they might still derive considerable benefit, and we stated with what eagerness it had been received in the different islands as we came along. This turned the scale, Prince Cornuto gave way, and Isaac Lowndes, who is placed here by the London Missionary Society, presented the com- mittee with seventy" copies which had been sent from Malta, and which are to be distributed in the towns and villages. When the committee broke up, I told Prince Cornuto that Bambas, at Scio, was engaged in making a translation of the Scriptiure Lessons into good modern Greek; he exclaimed, it was one of the greatest things that could be done for Greece. I had the head-ache in the afternoon and was rather feverish, but we went to take tea with I. Lowndes and his wife, and I tliink they were comforted and encouraged by our visit. I advised hiin to try to raise a little subscription among the English for Greek tracts, and to get them from Smyrna or Constantmople. I have promised his wife a Manual or two; she is just arrived from Malta, and says that the wife of Jowett has a girls' school there for fifteen or twenty children, that it is in an excellent state, and she purposes to qualify the girls as mistresses for similar institutions. I find that Dr. Naudi's brother is engaged in form- ing monitors preparatory to opening his school. \hth. — Yery busy upon a plan for the education of the poor children at Zante, to be left with Col. Ross, but I am very low ; the head-ache came on, and rendered me incapable of doing any thing all the evening." 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN . 123 In the margin of the journal are these words — " This, I think, was the first attack of fever." The next day, though very unwell, W. Allen still endeavoured to exert himself, and says — " Plato Petrides came, and we had some most interesting con- versation on the subject of schools. He is disposed to begin the Scripture Lessons directly. I could not apply to any thing, and rested a good deal on the bed, but we went to dine with Col. Eoss. I find the Jews here are treated with great contempt, and would be grossly insulted if it were not for the protection of the British. There are about four hundred who live by themselves, in a street which has a gate at each end of it, and these gates are locked at eight o'clock in the evening, for their security. This is another symptom of the uncivilized state of the Greeks." Though William Allen rallied a little the following day, yet it was plain that he was seriously indisposed. On the 18th he writes — " I was very unwell all the morning, but just brushed up to go to dinner at Colonel Ross's." From this period he was obliged to give up entirely to nursing, and, in a letter to his daughter, written from Corfu, thus describes his illness : — " Soon after my last letter to thee of the 8th of Ninth Month, from Zante, I was taken ill with the fever, which is so common in these islands in the autumn, but it was not till the 18th that I was obliged to submit to be confined to the house. Dr. Thomas, who is at the head of the health department, attended me with the most unremitting dihgence ; but my confidence was placed in the Lord, who was graciously pleased to comfort and support his poor afflicted servant, and to give me an assurance that I should yet see my beloved connections, I retained, pretty steadily, the use of my faculties, and though the poor body sufi'ered more than I can describe, my mind was preserved in sweet calm and peace. I since find that, at one time, the Doctor was so alarmed, that he requested dear Stephen to give me a hint of the uncertain 124) LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. termination of this illness, and that it would be well for me to settle any thing that might require attention, whilst I had the power. A few days after this they had a consultation, but the disorder then took a more favourable turn. The Governor, Col. Patrick Eoss, who has behaved to me like a brother, had a large room prepared for me in his own house, which commands an extensive view of the sea. On the 24th he sent a sedan chair to have me removed tliither, and we remained with them until we left the island. We were, for some time, in hope of a conveyance to Malta by the transport, but it had been so much employed, in conse- quence of some disturbances at Santa Maura, that we could not rely upon it, and as opportunities, for all parts, are much more frequent at Corfu, we concluded to come here in a Government cutter, about to sail shortly; and I was the more inchned to do so, as I did not seem likely to recover my strength at Zante. "We came on board between four and five o^clock, having taken leave of our dear friend Col. Eoss and his amiable wife, with feehngs of love and gratitude ; they could not have been kinder, if I had been a near relation."^ I was so weak that I had to be supported to the boat. As night came on the wind rose, and we were sadly * William Allen always retained a lively and grateful recollection of the kind attentions shown to lum on this oecasion ; a steady friendship ever afterwards subsisted between him and Colonel, now Major-General, Sir Patrick Ross, whose daughter Mary Ann, in a letter, addressed to one of the Editors, thus expresses her father's feelings on learning the intelligence of the decease of William Allen : — "January 'ind, 1844;. "My di;ar Ektend, " I should hesitate to intrude, so early, upon yom- affliction, with any words of mine, but that I feel sux-e you will kindly excuse the expression of our sincere and affectionate sympathy, in the loss of your invaluable and beloved uncle. It was indeed with feelings of no common regret that we all heard of the event; but my father is natiurally most affected by it, for the loss of a friend, so steadily and warmly attached, and so every way worthy of regard and esteem, must always be deeply felt hi such a world as this, where the very rarity of such friendship tends so greatly to enhance its value. Only yesterday moming my father was remarking how long it was 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 125 tossed. About two o'clock a tremendous storm of thunder and lightning commenced ; the rain descended in torrents^ unlike any thing we see in England, and this continued till nearly day-hght, but I was sweetly supported in the midst of the tempest. The next day, the wind being contrary, we were obhged to put into a port in Cephalonia, where we lay until the 15th inst. We after- wards met with calms and light winds, so that it was the 17th of Tenth Mouth before we reached Corfu. Martini was quite sea- sick, and of no use to us; but a serjeant on board was very civil, and offered us one of his men to wait upon us, which we gladly accepted. I was sorry to find, on our arrival, that Sir Prederick Adam was absent; but Dr. Skey, whom I had known in England, and who is a friend of the Aikins, came on board and kindly insisted on taking us to his house. This was a real comfort. Here again our Divine Master has provided for us, just at the needful time, for I was sinking from mere exhaustion, but here I have every tiling just as I have been used to have it. The Doctor himself made me an excellent basin of arrow root, and truly cordial it was. I have not had such an appetite since I left England, as I have now." In alluding to one day when he was very ill, he said — since they had met, aud had determined to call, in the course of the day, at Stoke Ne\vington, when, shortly after, the tidings of the solemn event met his eye. I feel that this is not a time for many words; yet when the heart is smitten there is a balm in christian sympathy, and doubtless much of this balm will be poured in, on this mournful occasion, from the many friends who will feel \\ith you. Very fidl must be your consolations from a far higher source ; for to those who, like your dear uncle, made his whole life a preparation for a better, and yet rested for acceptance, not on that life, but wholly on the blessed Redeemer, how welcome and joyful an exchange is now made ! Mourn- ful and trying to the surviraig relatives, such dispensations must ever be, but to those who sorrow, iiot only ' not without hope,' but in its full assurance, how aboundiug are the precious promises provided in the Scrip- tures of light aud truth ! May that blessed Comforter, who is ever nearest to his people in times of mourning, be very near to your heart, and supply by his gracious presence, the void which, I am sure, you must long and deeply feel." 126 LIEE AND COHRESPONDENCE [1819. " Under a feeling of extreme bodily weakness, my blessed Saviour suddenly pom-ed in a precious stream of consolation, which tendered me much ; indeed, through the whole of this deeply trying illness, the feeling of His love has been, I may say, uninterrupted." " Tenth Month IWi. — T feel stronger and better. After break- fast, dear Stephen waited on Sir Thomas Maitland, and had a confer- ence with him, which was very satisfactory. He was so kind as to detain the vessel in which Stephen wished to go to Barletto, until to-morrow, and wiU furnish him with letters. 9,0th. — StiU gradually increasing in strength and spirits. Dear S. G. preparing to go forward ; we read a chapter in my room and then sat some time in silence, after which each of us had consola- tion to impart to the other. After dinner we took our final leave. Dr. Skey accompanying Stephen to the vessel. Nothing can exceed Dr. S.''s kindness. I feel myself quite at home; this is an excellent place to recruit in. 21^^. — Dr. Skey accompanied me in Col. Herries's carriage to the palace, where I had to meet Sir Thos. Maitland by appoint- ment. I was very courteously received, and we had free and open communication for above an hour. I am glad to find that he is quite disposed to adopt the British school plan, and seems zealous to make a beginning. After this, we went to see the children in their Little orphan school; their persons and clothes were very neat and clean. 22nd. — Busily engaged aU day in preparing the plan of a school society, for Sir Thos. Maitland. SSrc?. — In the evening Col. Napier called, and brought with him Sir H. Englefield's newly-contrived barometer, to be filled upon the spot, 24M. — Employed very dihgently in making another copy of the Scripture Lessons, to show to the Greek clergyman here. 2hth. — Sir Thos. Maitland sent for me, and I had a most inter- esting converation with him ; I left him the plan I had prepared for the school society; he seems quite in earnest for it. He advises me to wait eight or ten days for the packet, as he says I shall find it much more commodious than the common vessels; this would take me to Malta, where I should then look out for a good vessel to Marseilles." 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 127 Several of the following days were chiefly occupied in visiting the prisons, hospitals, and poor-house, of the island. The 29th of Tenth Month, WiUiam Allen writes — " Plato Petrides brought me the intelligence, that a young man, a physician, a native of Santa Maura, had arrived, and brought with him a set of spelUng lessons, in Greek, which had been printed at Paris. He shewed me some of them ; they are beauti- fully executed, and are come just in the right time ; and, what is more, the physician is sufficiently master of the j)lan to organise a school himself. All this seems providential. Count Antoine Theotoki and another gentleman dined with us. They mHI be good committee men, and they think a ladies' com- mittee would be useful. Teni/i Month '^^th. — When I rose this morning, my mind was sweetly comforted with the feehng of being under divine notice, wliich tendered and humbled me. We heard that the Otranto mail was arrived. I went to the post office and found two letters for dear Stephen, which I forwarded, and one for myself; I then went to the library, and was sorry to find that a spirit of discontent still prevailed in England. Dr. Athanase Pohti, of Santa Maura, the physician from Paris, mentioned yesterday, spent the evening with us; he has been abroad for some years, perfecting his education, and has studied chemistry. He is quite willing to stay here long enough to qualify the young man for a sclioolmaster, wdio is now engaged in trans- lating the Scripture Lessons. Another young physician, who has also completed his education abroad, and now resides at Corfu, came with Dr. Pohti, — liis name is Constautine Palatiano. He is quite ■wdling to work on the committee here, and seems a fine young man. The professor of mathematics of the pubhc school was likewise with us. Dr. Politi informed me how the Greek speEing lessons came to be printed. A very rich person, named Rossetou Rosnobanou, of J assy, in Moldavia, was at Paris, and was so much struck with the inq^ortance of the system of mutual instruction for the general 128 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. education of the poor, that he resolved to take measures to intro- duce it into his own country, and among the Greeks. He engaged a young Greek, of the name of Kleoboulou, to learn the plan at Paris, on the condition that he should spend a whole year in. Jassy, in establishing it there. The gentleman was at the expense of twelve thousand francs in the moulds cut for the types of the Spelling Lessons and Reading Lessons, wliich are most beauti- fully executed. I understand that the parties are returned to Jassy, so that we may consider the plan as established there. The Honourable Charles Percy, a fine young man, related to the Northumberland family, came in before the company went away; he seems to entertain no doubts of Sir Thomas ]\Iaitland's concur- rence in the plan. I shall look upon Percy as one of the main props and pillars of it here. Tenth Month ?>\st. — After breakfast I retired to my chamber, and read in the Testament as usual. I then endeavoured to fix my mind on the Source of all good, and felt openness in mental prayer, and much comfort. After dinner read in Isaiah. I have felt much inward support to-day. Eleventh Month \st. — N. Maniaches, the young man who I think wiU do for a master here, brought me the translation of the first section of the 'Duties,' in modern Greek. Avery steady young man, an officer, the same who dined with us the other day, called to ofier his services on the committee for the schools, if one should be formed. 'ind. — ^Dr. Skey went with me to call on Baron Theotoki. We had much talk on the subject of schools, and he seems to be well aff'ected towards the measure. I was quite glad of this interview, especially as he is to speak to Sir Thomas about it, to-morrow. He pressed me to dine vai\\ him at four o'clock, which, as it might afford me the opportunity of further conversation, I agreed to do. About twelve o'clock. Dr. Gadiano brought with him three of his Greek friends, wdio could all speak Prench, to talk about the school plan. They seem heartily disposed to co-operate. Dr. Gadiano says that he has spoken to some of the Greek ladies, who are very wilHng to come forward for the girls. I met several gentlemen at dinner, at the Baron's, and we had a great deal of interesting conversation. 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 129 Eleventh Month Srd. — Dr. Skey and I took a walk out of the town • tlie country is very fine, which way soever we turn, and the Albanian mountains in the back ground, the water, islands, and cultivated country, afford a beautiful landscape; vegetation is everywhere luxiu-iant. The people here are dirty in their persons, they seem, however, industrious, and if they had but the blessings of education, including, of course, a knowledge of the Scriptures, their improvement would doubtless be rapid and striking. Col. Patrick Ross arrived to-day ; 1 was truly glad to see him, but concerned that he seemed out of health. 5th. — I received a kind note from Col. Ross, to say that Sir Thomas Maitland desired him to tell me that he should be in town on second-day, and hoped to see me at the palace, and finally settle upon our plan. &th. — Dr. Politi, and a friend of his, called; he has got the Scripture Lessons, and also my address on the subject of education, translated into modern Greek and Italian, as the latter language is much spoken liere. I called on Baron Theotoki and spoke to him about having them printed ; he not only readily agreed to tlie proposal, but said he would send the printer to me to take directions, and he came accordingly. This was a good morning's work. 7th. — I have read a good deal in the Bible to-day; and, on retiring to my chamber, to endeavour to unite in spirit with my dear distant friends, then engaged in rehgious worship, my heart was tendered. How insipid are all the gratifications and pleasures of tliis world, in comparison with the enjoyment of the divine presence and love ! This only is worth hving for — everything else win leave us; dearest relations and most intimate friends must drop off, but if we are united in Jesus, it will only be a temporary separation. 0, how ought we to seize every opportunity to strengthen this bond ! dlh. — Received a note from Col. Ross, to say that Sir Thomas had been so much employed, that he had not himself had an opportunity to speak to him since he came to town, though living in the same house; so I must bear my disappointment. Patience must stm be exercised, and, may I not say, faith ? VOL. II. .£ 130 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Eleventh Month Y^th. — My mind was sweetly comforted and refreshed in the Lord this morning, and I prayed for preservation not only for myself, but for those also who are dearest to me. Sir Frederick Adam breakfasted with us ; I explained the school plan to him, he is a warm and zealous friend to our system, and will do much to promote it here. I find that I am not likely to see the Governor till sixth or seventh- day, but Sir Frederick Adam is confident that he is friendly to the business. Col. Ross was made a Knight this momhig, so he is now Sir Patrick Ross, I had an invitation to attend a meeting of the committee of the Bible Society, at the house of Baron Theotoki, who is president. The Greek Archbishop and three priests were present; they were about to present every one of their churches with a Testament in common Greek, and also to have libraries in the villages, or places where Testaments might be deposited and lent. 11^,^. — The London packet is arrived, so that unless it should be detained by government, I expect to be off for Malta in forty- eight hours, as that is the time allowed. I went to the hbrary, and read the English newspapers; there has been sad business at Manchester, — I am afraid there will be great commotions and over- turnings. O, that the members of our religious society may keep themselves clear from all parties, and endeavour to build upon that sure foundation which the storms of the world can never shake ! XMh. — Sir Frederick Adam came in and breakfasted with us ; he says that Sir Thomas Maitland has determined to adopt our school plan, and that it will be acted upon directly ; he told me that I might make my mind quite easy respecting it. We find that the packet sails this morning; I therefore finished putting up my things, and about twelve o'clock went on board, Dr. Skcy accompanying me; his kindness has been uniform and unremitted; surely my having been brought here was providential. The wind is against us. 16///. — The wind is still against us. I feel low, but peaceful ; my prayers are put up, night and day, that the work of regeneration may go on m me, and that I may, in all things, be made what the Lord would have me to be. Ylth. — I long to feci more of the life-giving presence of the Shepherd of Israel. ]^819.1 OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 131 Eleventh Month \Wi. — In the aftemooii a breeze sprang up; we discerned land^ though the weather was very hazy, and came to anchor in a fine harbour in Malta about six o'clock. 20//^. We had leave from the quarantine officers to come on shore but previously, Dr. Naudi and the missionary, William Jowett, came alongside in a boat. Jowett accompanied me to the inn, which is kept by an Enghshman of the name of Vicary ; it is a large quiet house, and my apartments are very neat. 2i^j{. — ^Dr. Naudi called, also W. Jowett, who is of the ' Church Missionary Society,' and J. Greaves, the secretary of the School Society here, and from them I heard an account of the steps they have taken to form schools on the plan of the ' British and Foreign School Society.' They are in great difficulty about a school-room. It appears that the Eoman Cathohcs here are very bigoted, and much afraid of attempts to proselyte; several of these are members of the committee, and they cannot, even at present, introduce the Holy Scriptures, or any lessons from them, therefore the plan of printing the Scripture Lessons in Italian, will not answer here ; I must, however, get it done in Italy. In order to relieve their fears, W. Jowett, the Church Missionary, and Samuel Wilson, the London Missionary, have withdrawn from the com- mittee. I went to deKver two of my letters, one to Dr. Warren, and the other to Col. Stewart, the son of the famous Dugald Stewart; the former is to show me the hospitals on third-day. Colonel Stewart introduced me to the Deputy Governor, Col. Maitland, who showed me the coats of mail, and the complete suits of armour of the knights, which are very curious, I went to dine with Sir Richard Flasket, and in passing out of the town saw the strength of the fortifications. The whole country seems made of rock, and being whitish, the glare of hght is very strong. The sun was setting before us in the west — my mind was, in a remarkable manner, calmed and tranquillized, and I was sweetly reminded of that happy state, 'where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest.' I seldom, if ever, have contemplated the last closing scene with more pleasurable sensa- tions. The party was select, and after dinner we had much conversation on the school plan; I explained the rise and progress k2 '132 LIPE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. of the society, and strongly urged Sir Eichard to give the com- mittee here the countenance and support of government, and to let them have rooms, in some of the government buildings, for school-rooms. Eleventh Month 2'2nd. — Dr. Naudi called, and we went to see some of the rooms belonging to the government ; we found some admirable ones, in the old naval hospital, which would answer well. I visited Joseph ISTaudi^s school, which is kept in a room in Dr. Naudi's house; he has only thirty-eight children, but the room is full, and there are eighty-eight candidates for admission. In the afternoon, I went to W. Jowett^s, and had some interesting conver- sation with his wife, a sensible and clever woman, on the subject of her school, which I find is almost entirely her own concern; she has kept it up for nearly three years ; in that time she has received tjvo subscriptions, and has expended above thirty pounds. We conversed upon the general plan, and she brought forward a Hst of the names of ladies to whom it might be proper to apply to become a general committee for the girls' schools. It appeared, on the whole, best to have the Itahan Scripture Lessons printed at Paris, and we concluded to do it from Mai'tini's translation. We got a Testament of this sort to cut up and paste, but the whole Bible only exists, at present, in a number of large octavo volumes ; the Bible Society of London, however, is printing a common edition. In the mean time, a copy of the large work is to be lent 'to me, in order that, wliile I am in quarantine, at Marseilles, I may select the parts which we want for the Lessons, and take them to Paris to print from. It would be desirable to do the same also in the Prench and German lan- guages. Returned to my lodgings, and spent the evening tiU past eleven, reading. 23rr/. — I went to meet Dr. Warren at the Hospital ; it is a very large pile of building, and was originally designed for this purpose by the Knights' Hospitahers." On conversing with the chief secretary, about the room, which seemed so well adapted for a school-room, being appropriated to this object, there was evidently a hesitation on his part, lest the 2819.1 OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 133" measure should not be sanctioned by the Governor. This, of course awakened some surprise, considering what had so recently passed at Corfu, but it was afterwards quite plain, William , Allen says, that liberal exertions, and combinations of individuals to do good, were not countenanced in that quarter. The prisons at Malta afforded a dismal picture of the depravity of the human heart, both as it regarded the inmates, and the punishments inflicted upon them, and in describing part of one of the buildings, he^says — " It was in these cells, that the torture used to be inflicted in the time of the Knights of Malta." Some of the cruelties practised there were horrible. After visiting the poor-house and other institutions, he remarks — " Malta is so healthy, that there are vast numbers of old people 'in it, and the population is rapidly increasing, though the misery of the poor is great, and there are many beggars in the streets. Eleventh Month Z-iith. — Went to dine with Joseph Slythe, where I met Naudi, JoM^ett, Wilson, and Greaves; it was a very pleasant party. 2&ih. — Put up several parcels of tracts for different persons, and about eleven o'clock went to William Jowetf s, where I met six or seven ladies, and engaged them to form a ladies' committee for a g-irls' school. A resolution was drawn up, wliich is to be sent to-morrow to a meeting of the gentlemen's committee. I read to these ladies the Tver rules; a copy of the rules for a girls' school at Petersburg, is to be taken for their use. I then went to the palace, and had an interview with Sir Richard Plasket, who engaged that I should have a copy of the number of convictions in the year, under the head of particular crimes. Left with him some books and tracts. In the afternoon, went to attend the Bible Committee, at Jowett's; about seven or eight were present, and among them I was pleased to see a Greek priest. 27th. — I went to Joseph Slythe's to meet the school committee; they agreed to an address to the Governor, praying for a school- room, and also. received the application of the ladies. 134 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. Dr. Naudi called with the Spanish Consul; also "William Eae Wilson^ with Judge "Wright; the latter promises liis utmost support and assistance to the schools upon our plan. After supper^ read in Chalkley^s Journal till past eleven^ and was a little comforted by it. Eleventh Month ^^th. — Went, by appointment, with Dr. Naudi to the Spanish Consul, Don Alberto de Meghuio, a native of Sarra- gossa, who now resides at Zeetune, about four or five miles distant. He is a great friend to the education of the poor, and has, principally at his own expense, built a very handsome house for schools for boys and girls at this place. Sir Thomas Maitland and his govern- ment are, I understand, quite displeased at this pubKc-spirited act. "We dined with the Consul, but I came back to tea. "Wrote to Bambas, at Scio, and "Wilhamson and David Offley, at Smyrna. After supper, I read T. ChalMey's Journal ; the reading of the lives of these ancient worthies affords me great strength and comfort. 29//^. — I called on Dr. Naudi, and we went across the water to the old town, to see the house of the inquisition ; it is a large square stone building, now occupied by the military ; they have walled up the descent to the region of horrors below, but the government ought to have kept it open, to shew the mischief of permitting ecclesiastical tyranny. We saw several dismal rooms, and three in particular, up stairs, which perfectly answer to the description given by Catherine Evans and Sarah Cheevers, who were imprisoned here in the year 1675.* WHien the doors are shut, these rooms must, in summer, be almost stifling. 30//i. — Finished a letter to Lord Guildford, and put up for him a Manual, School and Prison Papers, Tuke's Principles, &c. Wrote also to the Hon. Charles Percy, and put up several tracts for him." Lord Guildford being absent from Corfu during W. Allen's stay on that island, the latter was induced thus to express his sentiments, in reference to some points which particularly claimed his notice: — " Though personally a stranger, I have, for several years past, been aware of thy benevolent exertions for the good of mankind, and have wislied to be introduced to thee. The circumstance of Sec SewcH'b History of tlie Society of rrieuds. ]819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 135 thy absence from Corfu at the time I visited it, was, to me, matter of o-reat regret, as I beheve that, from a deep feehng of its vast importance, we both have the subject of education much at heart. My attention, however, has been ahnost solely directed to the poor. I certainly have a most decided preference for the plan of the British and Foreign School Society; it is more liberal, more efficient, and more economical than that of Dr. Bell, and in my late journey through Russia, I have had new and most gratifying proofs of its effects. In France, notwithstanding they choose to mention both the names of the rival benefactors of mankind, the schools, at least all that I have ever seen there, are essentially upon our plan. In travelling through Greece, I have been pain- fully struck with the want of moral principle in the people; the poor are almost universally brought up in ignorance, and female childi-en totally neglected. I find that government is paying vast sums of money under the head of education, but the few schools that exist, are generally in a bad state, and many of the children belong to parents who could afford to pay for their learning. Surely government should spare this expense, and apply the money to the cliildren of the poor. In visiting the existing schools, I was deeply grieved to find that the page of divine inspiration, containing the most perfect system of morals which the world ever saw, was not introduced in the schools, but instead of it, the maxims of heathen philosophers. I hope that the Lessons from the Holy Scriptures, now printing at Corfu, and the same as those used in Russia, will meet thy approbation. Our object in framing them, was to bring forward such texts of Scripture, without note or comment, as were likely to make a deep impression on the youthful mind, and incline it to piety and virtue. The young man, Lusignan, (engaged by government as a teacher at Corfu), appears to me to have talent and zeal, and, although he has been educated on Bell's plan, he is ;iot ignorant of cur's, and has expressed liis ^-ilbngness to learn it of Dr. Politi, a gentleman who was some time in Paris, and, having seen the schools there, was so fully impressed with the importance of the system to his own country, that he studied it thorougUy, and is qualified to train 136 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. masters, aucl organise schools. Though his residence is at Santa Maura, and his object the practice of physic, he is quite wlhng to stay at Corfu, long enough to establish the system there. The young man who is employed to translate the Scripture Lessons, under the superintendence of Dr. Politi, seems to have considerable talent, and will, I doubt not, when he has learned the plan, make a very good master, and when qualified, he may be sent to Sir Patrick Eoss, who A\dshes to have a school at Zante, while Lusignan might have the charge of the model school at Corfu. The idea which I have formed of thy character, leads me to write A\ithout reserve, as to a person as enthusiastic in this great work as mj'self. Sir Frederick Adam is warmly Avith us, and has commis-- sioned me to send out one thousand slates. . I feel so much interested in the education of the poor childi-eii of the Ionian Islands, that from this time forward I purpose, not only to keep my eye steadily upon the object, but to seek to draw the attention of the people of England to it. It will give me great pleasure to receive a letter from thee, and may the Almighty pros])er every benevolent endeavour in thy hands."'' WTien at Malta, William Alien discovered that, so far from promoting attempts to educate the poor, the Lord High Com- missioner actually counteracted the efforts of those who were labouring in the cause, and he says — " I am really grieved when I see, both at Corfu and in this island, so many persons ready to come forward to promote a great and acknowledged good, and they thwarted and kept in check by the very man who, from his situation, ought to be the first to encourage them." The sufferings of the poor at Malta, in consequence of the monopoly of corn there, were also matter of much concern to W. Allen, who took considerable pains in reference to this sub- ject. He had the pleasure of seeing a ladies" committee formed for the care of the girls' schools, and their rules were upon the model of the Tver and Petersburg plan. 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 187 Twelfth Month \st. — I took a solitary walk by the. ramparts close to the sea, for about an hour, and most of the time was spent in mental prayer. 2^^. — X)r. Naudi breakfasted with me, and we afterwards went to a place called St. Paul's Bay, where it is generally agreed the Apostle was shipwrecked ; it took us between two and three hours ; we had a continual prospect of stone walls. The carob tree seems exceedingly well adapted for this place ; its fruit is a sort of pod, four or five inches long ; it is sweet and somewhat mucilaginous ; the poor eat it when baked, and it is given to cattle ; its roots insert themselvesanto the fissures of the rocks in an extraordinary manner, and seem to flourish almost without any soil. The Indian fig, or Cactus opuntia; grows to a very great size, its leaves being often nearly a foot long, and broad in proportion ; it bears a great deal of fruit which is very good to eat. ^rd. — I have now waited about a fortnight for a vessel to Marseilles, but in vain^and they tell me that the passage is very difficult and bad at this time of' the j-ear ; I have therefore finally concluded to go in a nice English brig to Civita Veccliia; then, of course, to Rome, and by Florence, Milan, and the pass of the Simplon, to Geneva. A mihtary surgeon, a Scotchman of the name of Baird, is also going, and, as he speaks Italian, it will be very convenient. I have formed an acquaintance with Capt. Smyth of the Aid, and am debghted with him ; he is employed by government to survey these parts of the world. 4M. — Weather cloudy and the wind still contrary. After supper read Chalkley, a devoted servant of the great and good Master. O, that I were like him ! hth. — After breakfast, and my usual reading in the Testament, I walked on the ramparts near the sea, with my mind turned to. the Lord, and seeking for His divine, all-consoling presence;; I was exceedingly low, and sat down upon the carriage of one of the great guns, breathing out prayers to Him who alone can help, and my mind was in a good degree stayed and tranquillized. The place was quiet and retired, with a fine commanding view of the sea, and I was, in spirit, with my dear relations and friends assembled in their meeting for divine worship. My contemplations have been very 138 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1819. much upon the awful close and end of all tilings here^ and my prayer is, that my duty may be clearly shown me, and that I may be strengthened to perform it. Soon after I returned to ray lodgings, Capt. Smyth called, with a gentleman of the name of Wilkinson, who lives over the water, and seems to be a benevolent man. He patronises a school upon Bell's plan, which is near him, and first originated in the chaplain of a man-of-war, but on account of its narrow principles, they can have none of the children of the natives, and as it is, I understand that some, not natives, will not send their children on account of the catecliism. He acknowledged the superiority of the British plan, and promised his countenance to Naudi's school ; he even wished to become a correspondent; he is a highly respectable man, and has considerable influence. Dined alone as usual, and spent the rest of the day in reading the Bible and in religious retirement. About the walls of some of the places of worship here, there are large carvings of human figures, naked to the middle, in flames; this is to raise sympathy for souls in purgatory. The superstition and bigotry of this place are great, but they are a mild people, and might be easily led and enlightened, if they had a difl'erent Governor. Twelfth Month Qth. — Stephen Serle, an Englishman, who had been two years servant in a family here, but is now out of place, apphed to me to take him to England, and, having a good character, I engaged him with this proviso, that I should discharge him at any point upon the road if I was not satisfied with his conduct; he is anxious to retm-n to his fi'iends in Devonshire. Went across the water to dine at Dr. Warren's, and took tea at Samuel Wilson's, the missionary, where I met W. Jowett and his wife. Dr. Naudi, and Joseph Greaves. In the evening I had an opportunity of religious communication with this company. 1th. — Joseph Slythe called, and had much conversation upon the state of Malta. Something ought to be done, if it were only for the sake of the poor ; there is great and well-founded discontent. ^th. — Being anxious about the wind, I took a walk to the sea- side before breakfast, and rejoiced to find it favourable. I hastened back to breakfast, settled my bill, and got on board the Kate, 1819.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 139 Capt. Smith, between nine and ten o'clock ; but some delay occur- ring in consequence of the absence of one of the sailors, we had to wait till near two before we fairly started. I was a little quahnish, but comfortable in mind, and dehghted to set my face towards home. Twelfth Month ^th. — The vessel rolls greatly ; Dr. Baird is very ill, but I stand it well. About noo]i, we had Mount Etna on our left. In the evening we had rather an anxious time, as it was dark when we reached the Pass of Faro. We saw the lights of Messina on our left, and at length went safely between the Scylla and Charybdis of the ancients, for which I felt thankful. I regret- ted passing these interesting places in the dark. About midnight, the Captain came to my berth to inform me that we could see Stromboli, a burning mountain in the sea, and one of the Lipari Islands, and that occasionally there were flashes of light. I rose and went on deck ; the moon had just risen, I could discern the island, and watching it attentively for a long time, I saw two emissions of light, somewhat like phosphorescent clouds. The Captain, who was on deck great part of the night, saw several others, but it seems that we are on the wrong side of the island for viewing this phenomenon. 10^/^. — After breakfast I went on deck, and read in the Testa- ment as usual, then, going to a retired part of the vessel, and leaning over the side with my mind directed to the Source of all good, I was strengthened and comforted. I afterwards posted my journal, and took several observations with my sextant. 13/?/^. — ^There has been a favorable breeze in the night, and we reached Civita Vecchia this morningj when the vessel was moored, the Captain went ashore with the letters, and brought the unwel- come intelligence that our quarantine, instead of a week, as we hoped, is to be three weeks. \lth. — I generally have good nights in my Httle narrow berth. On waking, this morning, my mind was raised in aspi- rations to the Great Author of all, and, as I w'as revolving the subject of those doubts^ with which the enemy, at times, endea- vours to overwhelm me, and the question, which those who are 140 LIFE AED CORRESPONDENCE [1819. in the spirit of the world are so apt to ask, how do you know whether what you take for a divine impulse, may not be the work- ing of your own imagination ? — it sweetly occurred, that it might be known by the same test that our Lord gave, to distinguish liis followers from those of the world — dy the fruits. I would say, I have a right to conclude that I am under divine influence, when I feel my heart filled with love to God, and love to all men, witli a desire that all, without exception, might be eteraally happy > when I feel an abhorrence of all vice and sin; when I feel. the peace of God which passes all understanding. This, to me, is evidence as conclusive as any demonstration in Euchd, and, under this influence, the Holy Scriptures are felt to be precious. It is only under this influence that we Icnow that we have not followed 'cunningly devised fables/ and it is only under this influence that- we can biing forth the fruits of the Spirit ; but they who are busying themselves with external and sensible objects, can have no idea of this state, and even we ourselves, who in some favoured moments have experienced it, are liable, by degrees, to lose our sense of it, if we suffer external and sensible things to engross too much of our attention; hence the necessity of fi-equent retirement, and introversion of mind." In a letter to his daughter, bearing the same date, William; AUen says — " I greatly long to see you all, and sometimes, when I muse ■ upon you, and bring you all up in review before me, I am in dan- ger of being a httle impatient, but my dear Master is very kind, and though I am often low, and sometimes tossed Avith cruel doubts and fears, yet he always comes, at last, to my relief, and at seasons, fills my cup so that I am ready to weep tears of joy.. I; mention this, my dear, for thy encouragement and comfort. I have, this morning, had the renewed evidence that we have been employed in sowing seed, and though this work is not very obvious, and makes little noise, yet it is essential to that harvest wliich those who follow may have to reap." 1320.1 OP WILLIAM ALLEN, 141 " Twelfth Montli 19/i. — After breakfast I sat in the boat upon deck, and read a good deal in the Psahns, I also read in Second Corintliians to the Captain and Dr. Baird, and had some spiritual . refreshment. 2,0;^/^. — Our captain has got his ballast out, and is taking in ^Puzzolana for the government works at Sheeniess. It is in a powdered state, and of a red brown colour ; it composes the soil of a place about twenty miles up the Tiber, and is also found in other parts." Wliilst in quarantine, William Allen was diligently occupied in preparing the Italian Scripture Lessons, and he also learned to take lunar observations. On the 27th he writes — " Most of this day I was studying Rio's Tables, and made myseK < completely master of the lunars. %Wi. — On pacing the deck, as I often do for exercise, I remembered, with pecuhar sweetness, the journey in France, with ■H. Field, E. Barker, aud my dear child. 'iWi. — A httle comforted and encoiu-aged with a feehng of ; divine love ; and a full persuasion that it is my duty to advocate the great and good cause of the Lord, in the congregation, as •well as on private occasions. Much sweetness accompanied the ; prospect." The 2nd of First Month, 1820, orders were isued for their release from quarantine, and the next day, William AUen, in company with his fellow traveller. Dr. Baird, proceeded to Rome, the walls of which he says — " Are not so liigh as I expected, and there is notliing at all particular in the gateway, which is a simple arch. There was a shght examination of the baggage, and a soldier was placed upon the trunks beliind, until we came to the custom house, where they just opened some of them, but soon passed every thing. We pro- ceeded in search of the inn recommended by our friend Bartrum; as 'we passed through the square in wliich Trajan's Pillar is situated. 142 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. we saw a procession of about twenty or thirty persons^ in white, with white veils, whether men or women I could not teU, then a num- ber followed, with white cloaks over a black habit ; they stopped occasionally and chaunted, then followed a coffin carried by men, with a rich black velvet pall, ornamented with escutcheons, and in front a massy piece of silver plate ; on each side of the coffin were a number of persons dressed all in white, and carrying Hghted wax candles of a large size. The first inn we went to was full, but I had a recommendation from Dr. Naudi to another in the Place d^Espagne, the Hotel de Londres, where we met with good accommodation. First Month ^tli. — After breakfast 1 went to deliver my letters ; the first was to the Sardinian Consul, G. B. la Rasi, whom I found a very agreeable man, and a friend to the education of poor children ; he wishes me to introduce the subject to their minister here, and appointed to-morrow morning for the interview. I was much pleased in becoming acquainted with la Rasi, particularly as he reads and speaks Enghsh; we talked about prisons and other matters, and I gave him one of Benezet's observations. We went to see the famous building called St. Peter^s ; it is situated at the northern extremity of the town ; I ventured in without taking off my hat, and saw the interior of this wonderful edifice ; the aisle would hold many thousand persons, but everything is in such just proportion that, at first, we were not so much struck with the magnitude of the place, as we were on a nearer examination; when comparing the colossal pai'ts, with the diminutive appearance of the people walking on the pavement, we acquire a correct idea of tliis sui-prising structure. The figures are beautifully carved in marble. Dr. Band and I next went to the Capitol ; on our way we passed the tower of St. Ajigelo, and crossed the Tiber, which is a narrow muddy stream, winding among the houses. The Capitol is merely a httle hill or rising ground, which wo. ascend by steps, at the top of which are two colossal marble figures, \vith each a horse by liis side, to represent Castor and Pollux. In the middle of the square is an equestrian statue, in bronze, of Marcus Aureliusj passing this we come to the triumphal arch, at the bottom of the Hill of the Capitol, erected in honour of Septimus Severus, and 1820.] • OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 143 then readied the space where the assemblies of the people were held, the Forum Romaimm. Here we see the Triumphal Arch of Titus, and still farther ou, that of Constantine on the right, and on the left, the magnificent ruins of the amphitheatre called the Colosseum, said to be capable of holding eighty thousand spectators. The streets in Eome are narrow, the houses are high, brick plaistered, and there are no foot-ways. First Month hth. — Our friend la Rasi called for us, and we went to the Sardinian Minister, with wliom I had much talk on the subject of schools, and have at least opened the way for something to be done : thence we went to the MineiTa, a Convent of Dominicans, to see De Pretys ; he seems an agreeable man. We stopped at the Pantheon, which I beheve is the most perfect temple now remaining, many of the rest having only two or three pillars standing. These fine ruins were half buried in rubbish, until Bonaparte ordered them to be cleared. There are some tilings here which Baird was desirous of seeing, and wished me to accompany him. We accordingly had a coach, and went first to the workshop of the famous sculptor, Canova. Here we saw statues in all their stages; some, nearly finished, were extremely beautiful. We then went to the palace of the Vatican, which contains the museum and hbrary : this, alone, in order to be completely seen, would require more than a week. Here are galleries five hundred yards long, some containing inscriptions of remote antiquity, which have been dug up from time to time, and are ingeniously let in so as to compose the sides of the walls. Some contain a number of statues, the master-pieces of antiquitv, others paintmgs, &c. We saw the Apollo Belvidere, and the Laocoon. Hence we went again to the Capitol, to see the Tarpeian Eock, from which the Eomans used to throw criminals. The place is now surrounded with houses, and does not look at all like a rock. The precipice is only sixty or seventy feet : after what I had read of it in Eoman History, I was a good deal surprised on seeing it. We went to see the entrance to Eome, ^ called the Gate of the People, in which the city shows to most 144< LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. advantage, and then returned to our inn. The evening was occupied in writing the index to my travels. First Month Qth. — I called upon the Sardinian Consul, and then went a considerable distance near the outskirts of the city, to see the prison called St. Michael. It is part of a great mass of buildings. The first prison is solely appropriated to boys under twenty years of age, — there are, at present, only forty-one in it : they are employed in spinrnng wool, and the gaoler says that their work nearly pays the expenses for food. They work from seven in the morning, to about haK an horn* before sunset. A rehgious tract is given to every one who can read ; but only ten out of the present number are able. Each boy has a cell to himself. The punish- ment of death is confined to murder and highway robbery. In the women's prison there were three hundred and fifty prisoners : they spin avooI and also weave ; there is no classification, and though there are some instances of reform, many, when discharged, commit fresh crimes and come back again. We started for Florence about noon, in a heavy coach, guarded by two dragoons, and soon got into the Corso, which is the principal street in Rome. We went out at the Porto del Populo, which brought us on the Elaminian AVay. We passed Nero's tomb, about five miles from Rome. The Appenines on our right were very fine, and the reflection of the sun from the snow was grand indeed. Dr. Baird pointed out to me the situation of Tivoh and Trescati." The roads were bad and the carriage inconvenient, so that the journey was rendered very fatiguing. The following morning William Allen notices passing a little brook, and entering Tuscany, and afterwards adds — " This is a fine country, very hilly, and the soil in parts sandy, often washed down in ra\anes; the valleys are beds of torrents. We observe, however, fields cidtivated for wheat, and a great number of mulberry trees, with large vines about them, and in many parts the vines are supported by poles, and are higher than those in the South of Prance. It nmst be a beautiful country to travel in during the summer. There are many olive trees in some of the valleys. 1820.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 14'5 First Month %th. — As we proceeded, the ground api)earcd under garden cultivation. About eight o'clock in the morning we reached the gates of Florence, and gave in our passports, which were soon returned, and nothing said about examining our baggage. We went to the New York Hotel, where we engaged apartments. On settling with the courier, we found that there was a regular system of extracting as much money as possible from travellers. I went out to deliver my letters, and proceeded first to Sebastian Khebcr, who appears a very agreeable man. He is to introduce me to some of their school committee. T was well received at the other places also. Florence is esteemed the Athens of Italy, but it is said that the purest Italian is spoken at Sienna. We visited some of the hospitals, and as far as a cursory observation can go, the patients seem to be well taken care of. \Qth. — High wind and hard frost. A poor prospect for passing the Alps, but after breakfast my spirit was brought into tenderness, and sweetly comforted. The people of Florence carry Uttle pots of charcoal to keep their fingers warm, even as they walk the streets. Sebastian Khebcr kindly sent his nephew, Horace HaU, son of the chap- lain to the British Factory, at Leghorn, to shew me some of their institutions. He is a fine young man, and speaks English perfectly well. Dr. Baird was of the party, and two other English travellers also joined us. We fii'st went to the school established upon the British and Foreign system, in the First Month, 1819. They have a good school-room, fitted up exactly upon our plan, and two hundred and fifty boys. It appears that Count Eidolfi, the original founder of the schools, and Dr. Choui, professor of chemistiy, saw me in the street, going towards the schools, and judged from the shape of my hat, that I must be the friend of S. Grellct; they therefore came in, and I was much pleased at meeting with them. Our friend Hall now conducted us to the museum of natural liistory, which is a magnificent estabhslunent, and contains a great number of rooms, each appropiiated to its peculiar objects. We were first shown the anatomical preparations in wax, which were beautifully exact ; tlie muscles, tendons, and hones are exquisitely imitated. The heart, with its cavities, kc, VOL II. L 146 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. is shown most admirablv. Professor Eaddi conducted us throusrh these rooms. In other apartments are plants exactly modelled in wax, stuffed birds, objects of comparative anatomy, the silk-worm in all its stages, &c., &c. There are also collections of minerals. I could have spent a week here with pleasure. It is excessively cold to-day — the river Arno is in part choked with ice, which is a thing of very rare occurrence here. We visited the famous poor-house, which was instituted by the present Grand Duke of Tuscany, in 1815, to prevent mendicity; here labour of various kinds is provided. Every person, found begging, is to be taken up and sent here. It is altogether a government concern. We saw a bhnd woman weaving a figured carpet, with two shuttles of different coloured worsted. The whole of the establishment is dirty, and there is a striking want of classification; bad characters are forced in, and they may corrupt many others. In the afternoon Dr. Choni called, and sat some time with us, and we also received a visit from Count Eidolfi, the Marquis Pucci, and Ferdinand Tartini Salvatici, foreign secretary of the society for the dilTusion of the method of mutual instruction at Florence. We had a very interesting conference; they are sensible clever mcn^ and I was glad I came to Florence, were it only to become acquainted with these persons ; we talked over different subjects, I lent them the memorials, and plan of a prison society, to copy, and gave them one of Buxton's books, the prison tracts, and those of the Peace Society. First Month Wfh. — In the evening Tartini came for me, and we went a considerable distance, to the Marquis Luigi Tempi; here I met Count Ridolfi and the Marquis Pucci. They presented me with the Lessons and printed papers of their school society, and also with the copy of a communication from their committee, appointing me corresponding member. I am much pleased \\\i\\ these men. I asked tlie landlord of the hotel to look out for a carriage for us, being extremely desirous to proceed homewai'ds. \Wi. — Our kind friend, Plorace Hall, called to conduct us to the hospital Bcnefaccio; these extensive buildings contain establish- ments for the insane, for invalids, and a mihtary hospital. I must 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 147 send Tuke's book to the care of Tartini. After visiting these institutions and the foundling hospital, I met Count Eardi, who introduced me to his colleague at the Museum Nesti, and we had a good deal of talk about schools, &c. Count Bardi then took us through the rooms in wliich the apparatus is kept, and truly it is a noble collection. Here I saw the first telescope of Galileo ; I saw also several curious old instruments of the famous Academy del Cimento, which held its meetings in the Palace Pitti, in this city. The landlord informed us that some English have just arrived from Geneva, in a chariot brought all the way by the same pair of horses, from the house of Dejean, of Secheron, and the driver wants a fare back; we like the appearance of him, and having approved of liis carriage and horses, made our arrangements for him to take us there. I cannot but consider this circumstance as providential, for if I had bought a carriage, there would have been great trouble in posting in the different states of Italy. First Month X'^th. — Count Bardi called to take me to his school, wliich is in the quarter called St. Croix, and near the mountains ; he gave me some gratifying proofs of the efficacy of his plan of education. It wiU be a good thing, to get all commit- tees of schools to send us instances of the effect of the system on morals, and also in the rapidity of acquiring instruction. We went over to the Murati, which is an appendage to the poor-house, and then to the prison. Count Bardi says, that the president, Pucchini, wishes very much for information on prison discipline, and begs hard for the last copy of Buxton^s book, which I must let him have ; Bardi engages to translate it. Capital punishments are rare, only five in five years. Much might be done by a good prison committee here. We find that the courier from Bologna is not arrived, so, of course, the roads are blocked up with the snow, and here we must stay until they are opened. WtJ). — A clear frosty morning, but the snow is very deep. There are fine views in the neighboLu*hood of Florence of vine- yards and gardens, hiUs and mountains, so that it must be a dehghtful place in summer. Count Bardi called in the evening; L 2 143 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1820. he wishes me to send him a Manual, and all that appertains to schools for adults, also the appHcation of our system to the higher branches. First Month \hth. — It is dismal, dull weather, and now rains a httle. \^th. — It stiU thaws, and while we were at breakfast, our coach- man came to say we might start in an hour and a half. About eleven we set out in a mizzling rain, and at haK-past six reached Les Masques, where we are to lodge. "We have passed a great many cypress trees, and have ascended a very steep hill. Vines and ohves are numerous.' Ylth, — We set off at half -past eight; the prospect from this place is grand ; we are in the midst of an amphitheatre of moun- tains, and crossed the Appenines to day. My fellow traveller got out to walk, and I had a sweet time of retirement in the carriage alone, feehng my heart warmed by a degree of divine love, and my prayers were put up, that the Lord would make me and keep me his, and accept of the residue of my days to be spent in his service. Between four and five, we passed the last post in the Tuscan dominions, where we gave in our passports ; we proceeded only a little farther, when they were demanded again by the Pope's agents, for we are obliged to pass through his territories to our desired post; here they made a search into our portmanteaus, &c., and observing some pamplilets and books in my largest trunk, the douanier would not suffer them to pass ; after some remonstrance he made a large demand for a deposit to obtain permission, but this being refused, he had the trunk sealed, and sent a soldier armed to go all the way with us to Bologna. Glad shall I be when I get out of this bigoted country. V^th. — We arrived at Bologna a Uttle before four, and pro- ceeded with our soldier, whom Baird calls 'the defender of the faith,' to the custom house, but the office was shut. The people were very civil, and advised us to leave the sealed trunk until to-morrow, which we did, and then drove to the hotel, 'Tlu-ee Moors/ where we were extremely well accommodated. 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 149 First Month l^th. — I had to go to the custom-house to recover my trunk, and after a great many forms had been gone through, a paper was given me which is to be dehvered at Castel Franco, tlie frontier of the Pope's dominions. About a quarter-past eleven we started. The trees are uniformly cut into a forked shape, and the vine branches are made to hang like festoons from tree to tree. Our road is the ancient EmiHan Way. We had not much trouble at Castel Franco ; a soldier was sent to walk by our side, until we got over the Pope's frontier. We lodged at Modena, the following night at Parma, and the 21st at Placenza. My mind was sweetly and comfortably stayed, with prospects of future service and eneouraging feelings. 22w^. — We started about six, and afterwards crossed the Po, a considerable river, about a quarter of a mile broad, on a long wooden bridge, supported by boats ; after breakfasting at Lodi, we went to see the famous bridge which Bonaparte forced in the begin- ning of his career. It seems that in the low wet ground on our right, a great deal of rice is cultivated. In tliis country they adopt the system of trellises for the vines. A little after five we arrived at the gate of Milan, a large city, containing one hundred and thirty thousand inhabitants. We drove to the hotel, the 'Grande Bretagne,' wliich is like a Httle town; the beds are excellent. 23r(^. — I went to deliver a letter from Tartini, of Florence, to Signor Count Frederigo Confalonieri; he is an excellent young man, and one of the cliief in the school concern here ; he is also a scientific character; he received me ^vith the greatest frank- ness, and even affection, and offered to go round with me and show me every thing which I wished to see. I left him for about an hour, and went in seach of Barzoni, who I found was at Brescia. On my return, the Count had several of his friends with liim; there was Monpiani, a very nice feeling man, who has much to do with the schools, and lives at Brescia; Giovanni Battista Ducca, a physician, who is connected with the Lunatic Asylum, and is about to travel in Eussia, and to the borders of China, for seven or eight years ; and Joseph Pecchia, secretary of the School Society. I had much conversation with them, and got on well 150 LIFE AND COURESPONDENCE [1820. with my French. "We all went to the EouncUing Hospital, near which they have fitted up a school-room for three hundred boys upon the British system. At first the Austrian government opposed it, but the committee have at last prevailed. It is a most capital room, but the school is scarcely established yet ; they have formed a society and received subscriptions. Hence, they took me, as they said, to see a very fine view, the day being remarkably bright and clear, but I soon found myseK at the door of their magnificent Cathedral ; I gave them my reasons for wishing to de- cline entering, because I could not take off my hat, but they insisted on my going in, saying the people were hberal, and no one said anything, though some looked very hard at me. There is not such another edifice in the whole world ; it is built of marble from the Alps, and is in the Gothic style, most richly ornamented with carving, both without and within ; the very pinnacles were highly finished. There are above two thousand stone figures, many of them colossal ; it is only inferior in size to * St. Peter^s,' at Rome. I never saw anything so gi'and as the external decorations; the view from the top is magnificent, and perhaps unique. Milan lay at our feet, and the extensive flat plains of Lombardy were stretched out to the feet of the Alps, which we saw distinctly in the horizon. Mount Rosa appeared the highest, next to it, on the right, Mount Simplon, and next Mount St. Bernard, with many others. In the interior of the Cathedral were several places parted off", in which a number of boys were seated, and a person was addressing them, apparently with great earnestness. The Count next proceeded to shew us the promenade, a very broad street with excellent houses, and a good footway of flag-stones; it makes a circuit round the city of nine miles, and we see the Alps in the horizon, I returned to the inn to dinner, and in the evening the Count came with his friend Monpiani, and we had much conversation on religious and other subjects, 1 gave him Barclay's Apology in Trench, and tracts to both of them ; I also lent them the Tver plan, the plan for a girls' school at Petersburg, the hst of texts, and the prison plan, to copy. First Month '2,^t7i. — Dr, Ducca called, and afterwards Count Confalonieri, who went with us to the great hospital; hence we 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 151 proceeded to the Count's school, on our system, whicli is very near his own liouse : it is for 200 children, but at present there are only 140; they purpose to have a girls' school as soon as possible. I was exceedingly pleased with this establishment. We next went to the House of Correction; only part of the plan, which originated with Joseph II. is accomphshed; it is evident that it was intended to be on the same excellent construction as the prison at Ghent, which was also constructed in his reign, but his successors have altered the plan, and also re-enacted the punishment of death, which this humane Emperor had aboHshed. Hence he took me to the Observatory, which is a large establish- ment. I went, by appointment, to dine at Count Porro's, where we had Count Confalonieri, and a party of about a dozen, liberal- minded men, who, if the nature of their government admitted of it, would do much good. Monpiani was also there. I was much pleased and satisfied with this visit, and they appeared delighted with the thoughts of opening a communication. They will transmit all the information we want about prisons, &c. I am glad that I returned through Italy. I retired about seven to the inn. A young Greek, of CephaJonia, who has been stud}'ing physic at Pa\aa, called upon me ; he is very desirous of introducing our school system for the poor, into his island, his name is Stamatello Pylarinos. About nine o'clock. Count Confa- lonieri and Monpiani came in to take leave, and to return the prison plan, &c., we had some serious conversation on rehgion, and parted in much love." The following morning the travellers left Milan, and, in the course of the journey, W. Allen mentions seeing much Indian corn cultivated. He notices, in several places, the houses having paper, instead of glass, for windows. They reached Turin on the 27th instant, but he says, " This is a very tedious way of tra- velhng." At Turin, he writes — " I sent our coachman to find out one of the Waldenses, as he said he was acquainted with some of them, and he returned with 152 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. Jean MonaBtier, who says that there are from one hundred and fifty to two hundred protestants in this place, that a pastor comes to preach to them once a fortnight, on a first-day, and that he is a very pious man. The great bulk of the Waldenses live in tlu*ee valleys, not far from Pignerol ; Monastier says that all their children are taught to read, and that they have a school upon the British system. They arc mostly agriculturists and little proprietors of land; they are not persecuted at present, but are permitted to purchase land, which was not the case before the time of Bonaparte ; they are, in general, very poor, and they receive pecuniary help from England. I gave Monastier several books and tracts. T find that in the valleys the inhabitants speak French. Confalonieri's friend, to whom I had brought a letter, came to our iim; his name is Andre Mustoxide, he is a Uterary character, and is publishing a work on Herodotus ; he is a warm-hearted young man, and we were mutu- ally glad to become acquainted. He says, that if I could have staid two or tlu"ee days, he would have introduced me to the heir apparent of Sardinia, who lives here, the Prince Carriniari; he states him to be of hberal sentiments. Mustoxide offers to procure for me all the information I want respecting schools, prisons, &c., both of this place, and of Naples, Venice, and Tiieste, if I will but send him, from London, an account of what 1 wish; he lias an intimate friend in London, who is a Greek, and much in- terested about the Ionian Islands : I must find liim out on my return. I gave Mustoxide several books and tracts, and he took a cordial leave of me. First Month '^Wi. — We left the disagreeable inn at Turin, before it was quite light, and, at half-past six in the evening, arrived at Suza, where we lodged. The next morning we proceeded to the pass of Mount Cenis, and went through an archway made by Bonaparte, at the entrance of tliis famous pass. I had anxiously wished for a fine day, as in that case the prospects would have been extremely grand, and the risk far less, but the weather was misty and cloudy. The road here is at least ten yards broad, and we soon saw the effect of Napoleon's genius ; this pass was for- merly very dangerous, and very toilsome, but his engineers have 1820.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 153 now made it as easy and as safe as it is possible to make it, under the circumstances of the case ; the precipice is mostly defended by a low stone wall, or by square pillars, connected together by very strong wooden bars. In the rocks by the side of the road the innumerable marks of the boring, by which they were blasted, bear ample testimony to the prodigious labour wliich has been bestowed ; in some parts there are fine stalactites, or pillars of ice, and against the perpendicular face of one of the rocks, there is a collection of columns of icicles, about one hundred feet high. It looks as if a vast river had been pouring down, and had become suddenly frozen ; the shorter columns below, look very much like the boihng up of the water, in consequence of falhng from such a height : part of it was of a sky blue colour. Tliis was a magnificent spectacle, and is the finest thing of the kind we have yet seen. On looking down over the edge of the precipice, notwithstandmg the mist, we can see the road we have travelled for a considerable distance, and its turnings and windings are very curious. The pigmy horses and carriages toiling up below us, had a very pretty appearance. At half-past eleven we arrived at the top of the pass ; here is a sort of plain five or six miles long ; though this is the highest part of the pass, it is by no means the top of Mount Cenis — the pro- spect must be grand indeed in fine weather. In descending, we saw drifted snow upon shelving rocks, overhanging us, so I see how avalanches are formed. We lodged at Lans le Bourg. Tliis country is said to be too cold for wheat, and the inhabitants cultivate only rye, but there is a great deal of pasture land. First Month ^^th. — We put up at a neat good house, at St. Jean de Maurienne, and as Baird "is anxious to reach Chamberry to-morrow night, we settled to start early. ?>lst. — We set ofl" by moonhght between three and four; as we approached La Chapelle, the rising sun beautifully gilded the snowy tops of the Alps ; as we advanced, there was a greater appear- ance of cultivation. I got out of the carriage, and walked about two miles, and, as the horses proceeded so slowly, I was soon con- siderably ahead of them, and had, I trust, some sweet communion with the Source of all good. As the evening approached, we reached the bridge over the Isere, from wliich we saw Mont Blanc, 154 LIFE AND CORRESPONDEIsCE [1820. still beautifully reflecting some of the last beams of day. The moon rose^ as we approached Chamberry^ wliich we entered a little after eight. My fellow traveller, wishing to reach England as soon as possible, has taken his place in the diligence which starts to-morrow for Paris. Second Month 1st. — As I was rising this morning, the servant, Stephen, told me that there was a report of the death of the Duke of Kent, but I could learn no particulars ; if true, it will be a great pubhc loss, and particularly to the British and Foreign School Society."^ We left Chamberry about half-past seven ; I had a good deal of secret support and consolation this morning; lodged at Frangy, and the next day, as I rode along, my mind was contrited and filled with peace. Praises sprang up to my dear Lord, who has secretly supported me hitherto under all my afflictions, the depth of some of which he only knows. On driving through Geneva, all my tender feelings were aroused in the recollection of coming here with my precious Charlotte, my ever dear companion, on the eve of my great loss, and it aff'ected me much, but all sustaining help was near. I reached Secheron about two o'clock, and, after putting up at Dejean's, sent to Professor Pictet for my letters ; in about an hour they arrived, and relieved my anxiety much about home. I after- wards went to see Maiy Ann Vernet ; her sisterly kindness to me in my great affliction, has for ever endeared her to me; I met with a most cordial reception, and, after sitting some time with her, returned to the inn. Third Month '^nd. — Professor Pictet called, and afterwards Dr. Marcet, with whom I walked into Geneva. Dined with M. A. Vernet, her husband, children, and grand-children ; Pictet also dined with us. M. A. V. and I had much conversation about Eobert Owen; it is very remarkable, that, in parting, he deshed her to pray for him. In the evening, Pictet took me to the Natural Philosophy Society, where I met my dear friend De la Rive, also * William Alleu afterwards learut, with sincere sorrow, that tliis rumour was correct. 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 155 Prevofc, father and son, and many others, as Decandole, the botanist, the blind Huber, who has written such an excellent book on bees, Saussure, and Necker. On returning to the inn, I wrote a letter to my dear child, and one to S. Grellet, directed to Lausanne — I hope he will be here soon. I have had a good deal of inward support to day, although my spirits have been very low. Second Month ^th. — 1 took a walk to Geneva, and went direct to M. A. Vernet : showed her the German and Itahan Scripture Lessons for our schools, the plan for district visiting at Tver, and other papers. After some very interesting conversation, her son, Charles, conducted me to Dr. Marcet's; he hves in the same house, a fine large building, formerly occupied by Theodore de Saussure. Marcet took me to hear a lecture of De la Rive's upon light and electricity — it was a very excellent one; here I met with Count Orloff, who wished me to come and dine with him, and talk about Russia; he says that he has adopted our system of mutual instruction upon liis estates. After the lecture, I went to Dr. Marcet's to dinner, met Pictet and De la Rive, and we were a very comfortable little party. De la Rive and Marcet had to attend at the House of Representatives^ and I walked back to Secheron. M. A. Vemet told me of a most interesting establishment for poor girls, at Locle, formed by a pious young woman, of no pro- perty, but rich in faith. The following is extracted from the account which M. A. V. procured from this excellent person, whose name is Marie Anne Calame : — 'Having often visited the poor, and devised means of being useful to them, above all, in improving their morals, the neglect of which is, too often, the cause of their misery, the Lord put into my heart an ardent desire to become, in liis hands, an instrument wliich he might be pleased to employ, to save some of those souls wliich appeared to me to be almost lost. Warmed therefore with love for these young ones, I formed a project for withdrawing them, at least, from the influence of the bad example which they met with under the parental roof, by estabhshing an institution for poor girls, in which, morals and industry should take the place of vice. 156 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. and the name of our Divine Master be acknowledged. I associated with me twelve ladies, whom I thought calculated to second my views, and share my labours. It was in the year 1815 that we made a collection in the commune, which enabled us to rescue five cliildren from misery ; the degree of distress, and the urgency of the case, decide the admission. Eighty-nine children have been received in the whole; the concern is entirely managed by females. The rehgious instruction is very simple, and is conveyed in the form of conversation, when the directress is in the midst of the children m an evening. They frequently read both in the Old and New Testament, but more frequently the latter; and when the directress is present, she sometimes comments upon what is read. The chief mistress also usually has a httle conversation with them, on serious subjects, of an evening. The cluldren are taught sewing, knitting, &c. There is no committee of finance, there being no funds but those of providence ; at the end of the year I render an account to the public, I also keep an account of the earnings of each child. AH the lessons are given upon the principle of mutual instruction. The age at which the cliildren are to leave the institution is not fixed.' Second Motitk 5ik. — ^I had a bov from the inn to shew me the way to Sacconet, and, having procured the key of the burial ground, I went in by myself, and had a solemn time at the grave of my dearly beloved and precious Charlotte. I was very much broken and contrited, but still my mind was supported by the unshaken conviction that her dear spirit had entered into the joy of her Lord, and I prayed that I might be enabled to dedicate the remainder of my days to his service, that when he should be pleased to say, ' It is enough,^ I might jo}'fuIly meet my beloved companion, never more to be separated. 0, that faith and patience may hold out to the end ! and that, in my future step- pings, I may be preserved from doing anytliing which should injure the cause of truth and righteousness in the earth. I staid in the ground about tln-ee- quarters of an hour, and it required an effort at last to leave the spot. Pictet gave an excellent lecture on caloric, which I attended. After it was over, M. A. Vernet accompanied me to find out the 1820.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 157 Widow Auriere, who is, I thiuk, the sister of Amy Argand, the inventor of the lamp; she is quite blind. We returned to Professor Pictet's, to dinner, and had not been long seated when I was called out, and behold it was dear Stephen, who had arrived, and has taken up his quarters at the Ecu de Geneve. He came in to dine with us, and gave me an account of his proceedings since we parted; he has had an interview with the Pope, and with the King of Wurtemberg, to great satisfaction. There will be much work for us on. our return to London, in improving the openings made. Second Month %tk. — Stephen read to me the memorandums of his proceedings, which are cause of humble thankfulness; he says that there is a precious people at Munich, and at Stuttgard, and that they are deepened in the life of religion since he saw them before. We had a sweet time of retirement, in which we were refreshed by a renewed feehng of divine love. We walked to Geneva in the afternoon, and took tea with Pastor Mohnie ; we found Pastor du Mallet with him ; they seem tender-spirited men ; a few pious friends came to meet us, and we sat down together in silence; there was a solemn covering, and the precious life soon rose into dominion; Stephen spoke at some length, and also interpreted for me. The people seemed loth to separate, and took leave of us in a very affectionate manner. Itk. — I called upon Dr. de Roches, who is one of the most active in the schools here upon the British system ; he took me first to the girls' school, where we found his wife, who seems to take great interest in it. We afterwards visited the boys', which has been established about two years, and they say the children make much more rapid progress than upon the old plan. In the afternoon De la Rive conducted me to some of the hospitals ; we had some conversation on rehgious subjects, and I gave him ' Brief Remarks,' and other tracts. Stk. — Stephen and I went together, by appointment, to the the prison ; Aubanel, who has the care, of it, is designated by ray dear friend, M. A. Vernet, as a man entirely devoted to his important task, from religious principle. Sir Prancis d'lvernois accompanied us through the prison. I was pleased with the countenance of one of the committee, who was afterwards at one 158 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. of the meetings of pious persons which we held in this city, and who, in a very tender manner, spoke of his rehgious experience. Second Month ^th. — We met about fifteen or sixteen of tliis description this evening ; the baptizing power of truth remarkably prevailed; we both had something to communicate, and 1 felt sweet peace afterwards. There is surely a seed in this place. 10?^/^. — Charles Yemet and 1 went some miles into the country, to a place called Satigny, to see a pious young man. Pastor Gossin, who lost his wife about a year ago, but seems to bear the stroke with Clu"istian resignation ; he has a school for boys and girls, mostly upon our plan. The pastor is mainly anxious to have them grounded in the Christian religion. If the Scripture Lessons be printed in French, I must send him a copy. In the evening I walked to Geneva, and met dear S. Grellett at a private religious meeting, at the house of the pastor de Mo- liere. De Moulinie met us, and we had a very favoured season. I accompanied Stephen to his inn, and parted from him with much affection, hoping to receive him soon in London. He sets off early to-morrow morning. \lth. — I called on my dear friend M. A. Vernet, and met Aubanel, Perrot, and a magistrate of Neufchatel, who spends most of his time in douig good. Professor Pictet came in and took me away to a lady named Romilly, a relation of poor Sir Samuel, Avho has a remarkable talent for taking likenesses, and she took mine. I then went to several places with Charles Vernet, and dined with Sir Prancis d'lvernois, where I met Troncliin, &c., and had to answer interrogations on the subject of prisons. In the afternoon, I went to M. A. Vernet, to take leave, and it was a solemn part- ing ; her husband, and Professor Pictet, waited as long as they could, in hopes of seeing me, and then went to the council, as there was a question under discussion which interested them very much. Vernet, however, was not easy without coming home, and I was tmly glad to see him. He is one of the most active in the Bible Society here, and is not tainted vidth the Socinian principles, which so lamentably prevail at Geneva, even among some of the pastors themselves. As we were conversing together, I felt the precious covernig of divine love spreadhig over us, and requested that we 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 159 might sit a little together in silence, which was readily complied with ; soon after, I believed it my place to kneel do\ra, and sup- plicate for this dear family, and I thought that the power of the Spirit attended. M. A. V. was much affected. We had a little pause afterwards, when her husband rose, and took me affection- ately bv the hand, saying, that he understood every word, and was indeed glad that he had come back. We took leave of each other, under feelings which, I believe, will be long remembered. Dear Charles accompanied me to Secheron. I had sweet peace in this engagement. Second Month 12i/i. — I left Secheron about seven o^ clock, in a German chariot, which I bought here ; my mind was absorbed with serious retlectiojis, and was anchored in the feehng of peace ; I longed to have my dear child by my side. The rising sun most beautifully gilded the snowy tops of the mountains nearest to us, but the distant ones were hid by clouds. At Bellegarde we passed a bridge, in the middle of which is the boundary mark between the Swiss Republic and France. The Perte du Rhone is only about a ten minutes' walk from hence, so I went to see it ; in one part, about two hundred yards in length, over which there is a bridge, the rocks appear to have fallen in, in such a manner, as to conceal the river. The douaniers were cross ; T, " however, gave them smooth words, and they behaved pretty well, though they made a vigorous search in the carriage; they gi-umbled a little at the number of pamphlets, but let them pass. I gave two of them the ' Thoughts on the Importance of Religion ; ' one of them read a httle and said he supposed it was somethmg philosophical, in which I did not undeceive him, but left him to study it at his leisure. Our ride among the mountains was very picturesque. 14:t/i. — We arrived at Chalons sur Soane, a large city, between one and two o'clock, and at St. Leger about four. We are now quite in the hill country, and there is a beautiful prospect on our right. My mind has been secretly comforted, and favoured with sweet and inexpressible peace. Praises arose to Him who alone is worthy.^' The fine mountain scenery continued for a considerable dis- tance, but WiUiam Allen remarks, " the houses and people seem 160 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. poor." On the 16th, after passing Chatelet, he again mentions being favoured with a feeling of peace, and writes^ " I have often, to-day, thought of that beautiful figure of speech of the inspired prophet — ' The mountains and the liiUs shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands,^ and yet the circumstances under wMch I passed this road, in 1816, are ever present with me. Second Month \lth. — This morning, a httle after eleven, we arrived at Paris, and went to Meurice's Hotel, Eue St. Honore, where I have very comfortable rooms. I went in search of Jolm Walker, whom I found in the Eue de Regard, and sat some time with liim, and his wife and family. 1 ^ith. — I breakfasted at John Walker's, after which, he accom- panied me in several calls. I found a letter at the post-office from my beloved child, giving a good account of health at home, wliich was a great comfort, as I have been very thoughtful about my dear aged mother in this sharp weather. About six o'clock, Meunier, a minister, for whom I had brought a letter from Geneva, called, and we had much interesting conversa- tion ; 1 gave him a set of the peace pamplilets. I afterwards went to a conversazione at Jomards's, where I found Count Lasterye and several others ; Sydney Smith was amongst the number. 1 find that there are eight schools upon the British system in Paris, and that now those in France amount to upwards of fifteen hundred. 1 'dth. — John Walker and I went a little way out of Paris, on the road to Yille Juif, to see the Bicetre. We found it a very large mass of buildings, covering a great deal of ground, and containing gardens, &c. The whole establishment is for men, and there were in it, to-day, thi-ee thousand, one hundred and seventy- eight. The principal part is for the aged and infirm, for persons who have incurable diseases, and for the insane ; there is also a prison, but not knowing that a distinct order was necessary, to 2;ain admission, we were not provided with it. John Walker, however, is to visit it, and write the particulars for our jjrison committee. This institution is supported by tlie city of Paris, and not by the government, and is for the department of the 1820.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 161 Seine only ; it is in a licalthy situation, and if it were under the care of a committee, much good might be done ; attention is needed in several departments. I dined with Jolm Walker, and his wife, and spent two or three hours very agreeably with this amiable family. Called on Count Lasterye in the evening. Second Month l^th. — Went, by appointment, to dine with Dominic Andre, and his wife — they are benevolently disposed, and the latter is very active in various charities. I met here, Vincent St. Laurent, of Nismes, secretary to the Bible Society ; Count Jerome de Velo, a fine young man, and a friend of Tartini and those at Florence; Pastor Jmlleret; he publishes a periodical work, called ' Arcliives/ of wliich they gave me two nimibers; it is a sort of religious magazine ; Pastor Monod, father and son ; the latter is secretary to the Bible Society. There were some others also and we had a satisfactory evening. We parted with friendly feelings, and they all expressed regret at the shortness of my stay at Paris. I am to send the ' Annals of Savings' Banks,' and a set of the ' Pliilauthropist,' to Andi-e. 'i\st^ — Count Lasterye called to take me to see the girls' school, in the Hall au Draps. The room is spacious and airy. There were three hundred and forty-four girls present, and the school is in excellent order; it is for Roman Catholics, and the Reading Lessons are adapted to that class ; in all other respects, I was quite satisfied with the school. The mistress seems to be a veiy clever woman, and the chilcben are clean in their persons and clothes, though some of them are of the poorest class. I called on Benjamin Delessert, and saw both him and liis brother Francis; he was very cordial, and gave me a number of printed reports on prisons, hospitals, &c.; he is an active member of the prison society. I saw Didot the printer, and con- sulted him about printing the Scriptm-e Lessons in Itahan, as a tract ; left that part with him on the life of our Lord, and he is to make liis calculation, and report to John Walker, who will attend to the printing of them. Took a cordial leave of him and his wife, and also called to take leave of pastor IMunier, who seems a pious young man. VOL. II. M 162 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. I went to the Duke de Rocliefocauld Liancourt, and had some conversation with him about prisons, he being an active member of the prison committee. I found him in full court dress, with a pile of papers on liis table, and his secretary taking directions. I must send him prison reports, &c. Called on Baron Turcksheim, the deputy from Alsace; he seems to be a pious, excellent character, and shewed me a number of rehgious tracts, which were printed at Strasburg. He comes from that city, and tells me that the middle class of society there are very respectable and pious. Second Month 2-Znd. — Left Paris about six o'clock. I have been favoured to feel sweet peace as I travelled along." The following evening, on reaching Calais, W. A, writes — " I feel reverently thankful in having been favoured to get so near home in safety, and I was pleased to hear my servant make the same remark, without my saying any thing to him on the subject. 24^/^. — I find that, though the wind is fair for us, it is so strong, and the weather so stormy, that the captain is afraid to venture. 2biA. — A dull morning, but the wind is fair. After breakfast we went on board the Zord Duncan, and at half-past nine got off, with a good steady breeze from the north-east. My mind was calm and peaceful, though low, in reflecting upon the state of things in my own country, and humbled in the feeling of my weakness. I am abundantly convinced that, in m^ own strength, as a rational creature, I can do nothing to promote the dear Master's work, but I have faith to believe that, through his spirit strengthening me, I can do all that he requii'es of me. We came to anchor, at Dover, before one o'clock. I went to our kind friends Thomas and Elizabeth Beck, who gave me a cordial wel- come, and I was thankful in being thus permitted to return to my native country -with sheaves of peace. After dinner, T. B. kindly went to the custom house and cleared my baggage, wliile I accompanied liis wife to see her school for about fifty girls, just at the back of tlieir house. It is very neat, and seems in a flourishing state. I gave the dear children a 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 163 short exhortation. Our friends wished very much to keep me till to-morrow morning, but as I knew, by a letter which I found there, that my dear child, and my brother Joseph, would be waiting for me at Rochester, I ordered a post chaise, and set off for Can- terbury ; put up at the Fountain Inn. Second Month IWi. — Started a little after jBve, and, at half-past eight 0^ clock, arrived at the Crown Inn, Rochester, where I had the inexpressible pleasure of meeting my beloved child, and dear bro- ther, who came from London the evening before. Our hearts were filled with humble gratitude, and with the blessed Saviour's peace; my mind was bowed in thankfulness to the Father of mercies, who had so signally supported and preserved me in this arduous engagement, and was restoring me to all that was dearest to me in Hfe. I surrendered up all into His hands, and he has returned it to me again with interest. AVe dined at Dai-tford, and passing tlu-ough London, proceeded direct to Dalston ; I found my dear aged mother in a feeble state, but quite as well as I had any reason to expect ; she was contrited in humble gratitude, and offered up thanksgiving to the Almighty Preserver. After taking tea with her, my brother Joseph drove us to Stoke Newington, where I was joyfully received by my dear sister, Anna Hanbury, and the rest of the family." M 2 CHAPTER XV. 1820, — Friends' Address to the Kiag — Engagements in the ^Ministry — Committee on Capital Punishments — Attends the Yearly Meeting in DubUn— Lectures at the Hospital resumed— Foreign Correspondence, &c. " Second Month 'Zlth, 1820. — Eirst day. At our forenoon meet- ing this day, after dear Elizabeth J. Ery had offered up a solemn supplication, I ventured to follow in thanksgiving. 2?>th. — Engaged in town during most of the day, caUing on N. Vansittart, Count Lieven, &c. : also in endeavouring to pro- cure a circular instrument for the Grand Duke of Tuscany. Third Month Yd. — Our meeting for worship was, to me, a solemn time : Cornelius had something to express amongst us, and E. J. Ery, and M. Sanderson were instructively engaged in ministry. I ought to have spoken early, but was afraid ; at lengthy however, I ventured to do so. Our select meeting (of ministers and elders,) was held afterwards ; it was a heavenly season, and we were sweetly comforted in our divine Master^s love. Kifd. — Meeting for Sufferings; a very satisfactory time ; my own mind was bowed in reverent thankfulness, on being favoured once more to sit with Friends in this meeting, and I had to acknowledge publicly to the goodness of Israel's Shepherd. A committee, appointed for the purpose, brought in a draft of an address to the King (George IV.), on his accession, which, with some alterations, was adopted : a committee of fourteen Eriends was appointed to present it, and the meeting adjourned, in order to sign the fair copy next second day. Dear Thomas Clarkson is our visitor at Plough Court. On the 5th, in reviewing the week, W, A. remarks — "My mind has been generally filled with sweetness and peace. I have ventured to speak publicly as a minister. May the blessed 1820.] LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE, &C. ' 165 Master preserve me from bringing any leproacli upon his holy cause, keep me from going too fast, or from lagging behind. I beheve that the command has gone forth to me, 'Feed my sheep.'' Third Month Qth. — Adjourned Meeting for Sufferings. The address to the Kjng was signed. At one o^clock, I went to the committee on the business of a late lamented personage, and afterwards to the Prison Committee at Samuel Hoare's, where a very interestuig letter from Petersburgh was read. 'jfji, — I called on the Marquis Ricardi, of Florence, respecting schools. Then went to Lord Sidmouth about Friends^ address. ^th. — Our Monthly Meeting. I returned my certificate, with an acknowledgment of the mercies received. ^th. — After attending to some engagements in business, I went to the Marquis Ricardi's, Leicester Square, and at four o'clock, I set off with Cunningham, to Kensington, to dine with Wilber- force. The Bishop of Gloucester and the Dean of Carhsle were also there. IQth. — I cleaned the instrument in the observatory, and after- wards Mary and I dined at Samuel Hoare's, at Hampstead. 11^^/^. — We had a very satisfactory school committee, at the Borough Road ; and thence, I went to dine at N. Vansittart's, with Sir Alexander Jolmston, &c. &c. \?>th. — At the 'Morning Meeting' we were favoured with a solemn quiet, and I beheve some of us felt sweet union and com- munion in the blessed Head of the Chiu-ch. \4ith. — ^Went to the Horticultural Society, then called upon Steinkopfi", and at 54, Poland Street, to see Count Lasterye. \%th. — Review of the week : I ventured to speak in our meetiag on fourth-day, and again to-day. I seem to have repeated evidence that the Lord is calling me to public service ; but I am often much afraid, and desire never to speak in His name^ but when He is graciously pleased to furnish the power, without which the best chosen words are only as the sounding brass, or tinkling cymbal. On seventh-day, the ISth, when, together with Thomas Pitt and J. Kirkland, I administered to the estate of a deceased illustrious person^ at Doctors' Commons, I entered my protest 166 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. against the following title of tlie Archbishop of Canterbury, viz., ' The most Eeverencl Father in God/ and left it on record, after my signature of the bond. Tfiird Month 'i^th. — I accompanied the Marquis Eicardi, and two other gentlemen, who knew a great deal about the Ionian Islands, to see the Borough Road School; they are much dehghted with it. 2152J. — Mary and I went with Rebecca Christy and Ann Crowley, to the Monthly Meeting, held at Plaistow. I had to express sometliing in the meeting for w^orship, and felt peace in doing so ; the meeting Avas, on the whole, satisfactory. We dined at Samuel Gurne/s, and afterwards had a favoured religious communication from A. CroAvley, followed by a sweet address from our precious E. J. Fry. I then ventured to offer supplication; there was a sweet feeling over us. 23r^. — Attended Ratcliff Meeting, and on my return to the city, I heard that dear Stephen Grellet had landed safely at Dover. lUli. — Stephen arrived this morning at Plough Court. "We had a joyful meeting. 26i;/^. — First-day ; at our meeting in the forenoon, A. Crowley spoke excellently in the ministry, and S. Grellet in supph- cation. In the afternoon I went with S. G., to Devonsliire House meetmg. ^Wi. — I went with dear Stephen to the west end of the town; we called on the Wurtemberg and Bavarian Ministers, also on Baron Sternicle, the Swedish Minister. Saw Count Lieven, and called at Vansittart's, and Lord Sidmouth's, but they were both out; afterwards, I went to the Borough Road to attend the com- mittee, and the examination of some boys in the higher classes. Fourth Month \st. — Committee at ten, on Friends at Pyrmont, Minden, Congenies, Stavanger, &c. First-day morning went with S. Grellet to Southwark meeting. At our own meeting, at Gracechurch Street, in the afternoon, I spoke near the close, and had peace. In the evening, S. G. and I attended a meeting at Southwark, appointed at the request of M. Dudley; — a satisfactory time. 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 167 . Fourth Month Qth. — Had a committee on capital punislim exits, at Plough Court; the members dined with me there. The company consisted of Sir Alexander Johnston, the three Forsters, S. Woods, S. Hoare, Junr., B. Montague, and his friend. Also Wagner, the minister from Wurtemberg. At E. J. Fry^s request we adjourned to Mildred Court to tea. 1th. — Making experiments in the laboratory for the business of Severn, King, and Co. ^th. — I went to the west end of the town, to call on Lord Sidmouth, Count Lieven, &c. 10^^. — After the Marquis Pucci and T. S. Buckle had dined with us at Plough Court, I took them to the Borough Road School. 11^>^. — Attended at Guildhall on the trial between Severn, King, and Co., and the Imperial Pire Office. I was standing from ten in the morning until half-past five, when the evidence for the plaintiff closed. \%th. — At Guildhall again; got a seat. Defendant's evidence closed about six. \Zth. — At Guildhall ; got a seat again with J. T. Barry, among the counseUers. Trial over about five, in favour of the plaintifi", for which I felt very thankful. \^th. — Went to Karslake's to meet Kirkland and Pitt. I had intended to leave home to-day, for Dublin, with my dear Mary, but was prevented by the business with them. \hth, — I went to Lincoln's Inn, to see Preston, the solicitor, on the same business ; also to Coutts and Co's. In the afternoon I set off with my dear Mary, and proceeded as far as High Wycombe. \&th. — At the meeting, this forenoon, I ventured to express a few words towards the close.'' On the following day, W. A. and his daughter went forward to Samuel Lloyd's, near Birmingham^where they met their beloved friend, Stephen Grellet. In the evening, they had the company of several friends, besides the large family circle, by whom they 168 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. were very kindly entertained ; and W. A. mentions, that both Stephen and he felt constrained to express their christian sohcitude for the rehgious welfare of those present. On the 18th, they pursued their journey in company with S. Grellet, stopping at Wednesbury to visit a school that had recently been established by Samuel Lloyd, Junr., and which W. A. remarks was "in very good order." Proceeding through Wolverhampton and Shifaal, they reached Coalbrookdale in the evening, and were affectionately welcomed by their dear friends, Barnard and Ann Dickinson. At this place, they attended the Half-Year's Meeting for Wales, which W. A. describes as a solemn and instructive one. They also had a meeting with the younger Friends of that district, in which Stephen and W. A., with several others, were engaged in the ministry, " a precious degree of solemnity being generally felt.'' From Coalbrookdale they set off on the evening of the 30th, and reached Llangollen, where they lodged, and the next morning rode through a beautiful country to Bangor. W. A. notices the pleasantness of this morning's journey, and adds — "My mind was humbled under the sweet influence of divine good ; and I was renewedly convinced of the certainty of my call to take a part in the work of the ministry." They crossed the Menai Strait, and arrived in the evening at Holyhead. On the 22nd, they went at 9 a.m., on board the Talbot, a fine boat, and one of the first packets worked by steam between England and Ireland ; this was nearly her earliest trip. It was a fine calm day. W. A. remarks — "Dear Stephen went down to his berth, but Mary and I staid upon deck, and the motion of the vessel, though at the rate of eight miles an hour, was so steady, that the deck was Hke a floor of the room. We read together some of Olney Hymns. About five o'clock we got into the harbour of Howth, and landed upon a very fine pier. Here Jonathan Pim and Charles Bewley were kindly watching for 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 169 US, with J. P.'s car. A cart was also waiting to take all the passengers' luggage to the custom house to be examined. We had to stay an hour and a half before ou/s was liberated, but the officer was very civil. We took something for dinner at a dirty house close by, and then Charles Bewley drove us and our baggage to Jonathan Pirn's, WiUiam-street, Dubhn. My spirits were low, and not much mended by seeing a considerable number of poor ragged objects on the road. Fourth Month 23rd. — Pirst-day. Still very fine weather, and I rejoiced to observe that the wind is the right way for dear WiUiam Porster, jun. who has sailed for America. Attended the two meetings here to-day, and in the evening visited some individuals who were under affliction, to whom the word of consolation flowed. 24^.— Wind still favourable for dear W. P. I felt a little inward support tliis morning. After breakfast, Samuel Bewley called to conduct me to the school society house in Kildare Street . It is a very large substantial building of granite. The number of schools which have received assistance from this society, or which have been instituted by it, amounts to about five hundred and twenty. The committee meets once a month, and a regular correspondence is kept up with the whole of Ireland. I was particularly pleased with their system of pubhshing small interest- ing books for school hbraries, which are intended to supersede those pernicious pubhcations, that are at present so generally circulated amongst the poor. In the books issued by this society, which already amount to eighty volumes, everything sectarian in religion is avoided. The model and training school is established here ; it numbers about two hundred boys, and one hundred and fifty girls. In the afternoon Eobert Payle took me to visit the Bichmond Bridewell Prison, a large granite building, erected about seven years ago. We were shocked with the riotous behaviour of the male prisoners ; about eighty out of one hundred and t\yenty were quite boys ; they were in a most disgraceful state of insubor- dination. Some of the women had also been breaking the windows. There is a general want of classification. 2bth. — Attended the meeting for worsliip at ten; afterwards went with Samuel Bewley to the school ; dined at James Pirn's, 170 LIFE AZ^D CORRESPONDENCE [1820. and, in the evening, rode to Samuel Bewley's, a beautiful situation, five miles from the city, where we lodged." On the two following days, W. A. visited several public institutions ; amongst them, the Mendicity House, the Retreat for Insane Persons, Kilmainham jail, and called on Dr. Brinkley, at the observatory in the PhoeuLx Park, and examined the telescopes and microscopes, which he found might be much improved, and suggested the needful alterations. Fourth Month 2Sth. — W. A. continues his journal, noticing the attendance of the usual meeting for worship, in which, he says — " Dear Stephen was silent, but I had something to offer on the text, '"What shall they do who are baptized for the dead.' I pointed to the only way by wliich we can be raised out of a state of death, by Him, who said ' He that believeth on me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.'' After meeting I had a long walk to the House of Industry, the Penitentiary, and the Asylum for Orphan Girls; and Eobert Fayle, who is much interested about prison discipline, took me to attend their prison committee in Sackville-street. Dined at WiUiam Harding's. 29^;/^. — Samuel Bewley ealled early, to take me to Kildare-street to breakfast, with their school committee ; I was much pleased to see so many respectable persons taking an interest in this great and good work." On this day, the Yearly Meeting for Friends of Ireland com- menced; and, during the following week, the attendance of the several meetings for worship and discipline, occupied closely the time and interest of the members of our religious society, who were assembled in Dublin. W. A. notices, on several occasions, the extension of divine good, particularly on the last day of their stay in that city. It was fii'st-day, the 7th of Fifth Month. In reference to a favoured meeting in the evening, he says — " It felt to me a heavenly season, and I beheve will be long remembered by many who were present." 1820.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN.. 171 S. Grellet and W. Allen were both engaged in the ministry on this occasion. The next morning, 8th of Fifth Month, our travellers left Dublin. W. A. writes — '' "We breakfasted early with our dear hospitable friends Jona- than and Eliza Pirn ; the former, with several other friends, accompanied us to Howth. My mind was very peaceful ; the wind contrary and weather cloudy, with rain. The steamer started at five minutes past nine ; there was a great deal of motion, and the wind and rain made it very uncomfortable. Two young women friends were also passengers, viz. Susanna Corder and Sarah Strangman. We arrived at Holyhead at six, and we all dined together at Spencer's Hotel, where S. C. and S. S. are intending to remain until the morning. Stephen, Mary, and I, proceeded in a chaise to Gwyndu. Fifth Month %th. — We rose early, and were in the chaise about half-past six. My mind is cahn and peaceful. We crossed the ferry and breakfasted at the nice inn, after which we had a pleasant ride through a beautiful country, passing some extensive slate quarries. The weather was fine, the trees in blossom, and the fohage in aU the freslmess and beauty of youth. Our minds being in unison, we enjoyed each other's company. lO^y^. — ^We arrived about six o'clock at Worcester, and were kindly received by Joseph BurHngham. Wth. — ^Attended the Monthly Meeting. I had to revive the text, * Blessed is that servant whom his Lord, when he cometh, shall find watching,' shewing the necessity of preparation, seeing that in an hour, when we tliiuk not, the Son of Man cometh. Dear Stephen spoke afterwards. In the afternoon I \asited the boys' school, upon our plan, and examined a class in reading, &c. Stephen, Mary, and I, called on several famihes of Friends. Some were faithfully warned and invited ; and consolation was adminis- tered to a dear afflicted individual, who had been long confined by niness.'^ On the 12th; leaving Worcester early in the morning, the travellers proceeded towards London, and were favoured to arrive 172 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1820. in safety at Stoke Newington on the evening of the 13th. In his memoranda of this day, W. A. says — " When near Wycombe, we went three miles out of the way to see the cliildren of my late dear friend Joseph Tox; they are under the care of Michael Gibbs and his wife, who resides at a pleasant spot called Penn. After reacliing home, I set off to walk to Dalston, to see my dear mother, and had the comfort of finding her as weU as when I left her. Fifth Month 14th. — Eose at six; my mind a Uttle comforted on waking; renewed desires were felt to dedicate myseK unreservedly to the Lord's service ; how great is His mercy, to have condescended unto me as He has done ! May it be more and more my study to cherish the good in all with whom I may come in contact, or have any influence ! I diseovered, I think I may say almost providentially, that an old servant of my mother's, who came to live in the family when I was only four Aveeks old, was living ; she was always a pious creature, and used to delight me, when a child, by singing hymns and religious poems. I find, that in consequence of the miscon- duct of a brother, she has been reduced to great distress and want. I was quite affected, and blamed her for not letting me know, for 1 was not aware that she was hving. VJth. — Deplored my spiritual poverty and manifold weaknesses, but a gleam of hope came in that I should not be forsaken by Him, 216 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1821. whom I wish above all things to love and serve. I have had to recommend to others the great advantage of endeavouring con- stantly to keep the mind stayed upon God, we should then, at eveiy pause in the concerns of life, have something sweetly to rest , upon. J. CorjBeld called to take leave; he is going to Lisbon, where he intends to establish the British system of education, having been trained at the Borough Road." William Allen and his daughter attended the Quarterly Meeting for Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, held at Hitchin this month ; they lodged with Samuel and Phebe Allen, at Westmill, and W. A. speaks with interest and satisfaction of the opportunity thus afforded for social intercourse with his dear brother and sister, who, with their family, gave them a kind and cordial reception. In afterwards alluding to this visit, he says — "The remembrance of it has left so sweet a savour, that we shall be desirous of repeating it when practicable." Ke mentions the meeting as a time of divine favour, in %vhich the Lord's power and life-giving presence were felt, and observes — '•'The Master was good to us, and graciously dispensed the rsnointing, both in meetings and in famihes. All the glory must be ascribed to our merciful Helper, for we are abundantly con- \dnced that without Him, we can do nothing to his honour. There are some hopeful young people here. I have great reason to be thanlvful in having taken this little journey. May I be more and more devoted to the work of my Heavenly Master ! Twelfth Month '^Uh. — Quarterly Meeting of Ministers and Elders ; there was a sweet solemnity over it, which comforted and refreshed. my mind. £5^7^ — On waking, commended myself anew to the protection •of Israel's Shepherd, with desires, that at the Quarterly Meeting, i iriight be preserved from saying anything which might injure the great cause, or hurt Friends. It was a very crowded meeting ; 183].] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 217 I liad to bear my testimony to the primitive simplicity and purity of the Gospel dispensation, at greater length than is usual for me; several other Friends spoke in ministry, and, towards the close of the meeting, I knelt down and supplicated for the children of my people, and for those who were halting between two opinions, praying that the divine visitation to their souls might be continued, and more powerfully, until they gave up fuUy to the influence of the Holy Spirit in the heart. This has been one of the most satisfactory Quarterly Meetings that I remember for a long time. I find that when I was at Brighton, it was determined to remove the Friends' school from Islington." Two days after this date, William Allen sent a long letter to his beloved friend, Stephen Grellet^ in which he notices the following events : — "My dear child was acknowledged a minister at our last Monthly Meeting, under a precious feeling of the presence of the Lord, and with the unanimous concurrence of Friends; she has informed thee of the decease of dear Anne Capper, whose exemplary and useful life was closed in great peace and sweetness. I have lately heard that dear Habhtz is deceased. Thou hast doubtless learnt that the school of Professor Bambas, at Scio, is broken up, and that he is escaped to the Island of Hydra. It appears to be the pohcy of the Governor to assist in crushing the Greeks, five of whom have lately been executed in the Ionian Islands, for assisting their suffering brethren. Schools have been established at Corfu, as well as Santa Maura ; at Malta the schools under Naudi are doing exceedingly well ; they have above two hundred girls, and more than as many boys. Another number of the ' Reformer ' has been handed to me, by which it appears that the editors have not yet done with me; I could reply easily enough to their statements, but the spirit which dictated those animadversions m^ist he starved ; it has a life in controversy, and seems to me likely enough to go on to Ranterism. I see that they are now abusing the Baptist Missions, which, thougli not conducted upon our principles, have nevertheless been productive of 218 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1821. much good. Divine Providence has a variety of instruments at ■work to break up the ground. Thou and I have seen^ in our travels on the continent, what large allowance inust be made for education, habits, and circumstances. Our Great Master alone knows how far the heart u sincere, and I beheve many of those who have been so harshly censured by the Radical Reformers, may appeal in this language, — ' Though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not, thou, O Lord, art our father.'' " In a letter to Prince Alexander Galitzin, enclosing the prison discipline reports, and a letter from the Duke of Gloucester to the Prince, William Allen says — ''I avail myself of the present conveyance to bring to thy remembrance one who can never forget thee, nor those sweet opportunities in which, with dear Grellet, and our beloved friend Papof, he had the privilege of enjoying thy company, and of uniting in conversation upon subjects relative to the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom upon earth. It would comfort me much to receive a few hues from thee, for I can truly say that I love thee in the fellowship of the Gospel of Christ." In his intercourse with persons of rank and influence, it was always Wilham Allen's desire to keep in view the objects for which he was brought into such association. He considered himself merely as an instrument to aid in endeavouring to give a favourable bias to the powers of usefulness which they possessed ; but regarding those powers as very important, he was anxious not to omit a right opportunity of availing himself of them. When at Brighton, he was introduced to Lady Olivia Sparrow, whose active benevolence led her to enter warmly into plans for the improvement of the labouring classes. Schools, and the construction of cottages, had particularly engaged her attention, and she was so much pleased to meet with a person whose views had been similarly directed, that she afterwards had frequent communication with him upon these subjects. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 219 "Twelfth Moidh 'ilth. — I must be upon my guard against indulging a listless and desultory state of mind. 0, the necessity of constant watchfulness and prayer ! '6\st. — Morning Meeting — adjournment. I had the sweet reward of peace for thus dedicating my time to my dear Master's service. I felt that I loved liim. We are now at the close of the year 1821. One of the most important occurrences in it (to me) is, that my dear cliild has consented to accept Cornehus Hanbur/s offer of marriage. In pubhc affairs there are horrible massacres of the Greeks by the Turks, and dreadful retaliation. The Persians are threatening to come down on the Turks, and the Russians also. In France there has been a late change of ministry ; the ultras have come in ; the Slave Trade is still countenanced, — they are far from being in a settled state. Spain and Portugal are forming a new government. South America has obtained its independence. A wide field for usefulness wiU, I trust, open there. First Month \st, 1822. — Rose before six: my mind turned to the Lord ; access was granted in prayer for preservation, and also, that my Divine Master would make his will more and more clearly known, by the influence of his Holy Spirit, and enable me to gather souls to him. After breakfast, wrote the following letter to Joseph Hume, in reply to a note from him, requesting my name to the calhng of a general meeting, on the subject of the suffering Greeks : — 'Esteemed Priend, 'Wliile 1 rejoice that the suffermgs of the oppressed Greeks are likely to become the subject of a public meeting, I am pre- vented from giving my name to the requisition, from the consider- ation, that a vast majority of the persons likely to attend such a meeting, would not have the least scruple to contribute directly y as well as indirectly, to enable the Greeks to destroy their enemies in defence of themselves. Now, as the members of our religious society believe, that all war, defens.tve as well as offensive, is contrary to the spirit of the christian rehgion, we are restrained from uniting in any measures which may incur the danger of compromising our religious principles in this respect. I am not, 220 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. however, without hopes, that the Society of Friends may raise a separate fund, to be apphed by a committee of their own, towards alleviating the sufferings of those Greeks, who, having fled from their oppressors, have taken refuge in the Ionian Islands, or elsewhere. I remain, &c." " First Month %th. — Commended myself and my dear child unto Him in whom we put all our trust, craving His blessing upon that engagement, in which she takes the first pubhc step to-day. Went to meeting, in the first part of which I was very low, but towards the close I rose with this text, ' Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob,' &c., showing how the love of God entering the heart, warms us with love to our brethren and sisters, and dwelling upon the effects of that love, or charity, as shown in the Epistle to the Corintliians; were we under this influence, it would make us overseers one of another, for good, and thus the discipline of the society would be supported in the best possible manner. At the Monthly Meeting, Cornehus and Mary declared their intention of taking each other in marriage; they both spoke very well. It was a solemn time. Wth. — I received a note from John Venning, announcing his arrival in London, and went up to see him. He brings a good account of Sarah Kilham, and says she has materially assisted him in a boys' school, which the Emperor has permitted him to estabhsh for the poor little foreign boys, who used to be begging about the streets; they now amount to about seventy. I received an affec- tionate letter from the Princess Mestchersky. '^hth. — I was engaged to-day in preparing for the meeting of several Friends, to form an association to keep open a correspon- dence with the continent and parts abroad, to find out and keep open channels for the circulation of books and tracts explanatory, of our religious principles, and to collect and diffuse information on subjects interesting to humanity, without regard to sect or party. This has been upon my mind ever since I was last upon i\iG conti- nent, and has, from time to time, revived with a feeling which 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 221 encourao-es me to hope that it is a right measure. The Friends arrived about twelve o'clock ; we were eleven in all, and had a most agreeable meeting ; they dined with me, and it was agreed that we should meet at each other's houses. This has been a very satisfactory day, and at times I was inwardly comforted with a sweet feeUng that the Lord was near. Second Month 2>rd. — ^Went to see my dear mother, where I met my brother Joseph and his \Tife. I thought the presence of the Lord was sensibly to be felt ; she was very sweet, encouraging us to cleave to the truth, that so, in times of confhct, we might be strengthened to turn the battle to the gate. '^tk. — Comforted with a feehng of the divine presence. Went to Newgate to accompany John Venning ; E. J. Fry and several of the committee were there, and also WiUiam Jowett and his wife, from Malta, and Reid, the surgeon, who has been in New South "Wales. E. J. E. read to the prisoners ; there was a solemn sUence afterwards, in which we felt that the Lord was owning and blessing the work. She then knelt down in supphcation, and pro- ceeded with such clearness, sweetness, depth and power, that my tears flowed freely, and I believe all were affected. Jowett followed, and commented upon the portion of Scripture which had been read, in a very agreeable manner. I then felt it right to convey counsel and warning, under a feeling of much love and sympathy. It was an affecting occasion; the prisoners behaved exceedmgly well, and before we came away dear John Yenning addressed them, and afterwards Eeid, the surgeon. It was a time never to be for- gotten. The Lord's power was eminently felt over all. nth. — My mind having been much attracted towards the children of Friends, at Epping school, I went to the meeting there, this morning, accompanied by my sister, Cornelius, and Mary. The dear cliildren were addressed at some length, and in visiting the family afterwards, I had an opportunity in free conversation of enlarging on religious subjects. May I, from time to time, and more and more, endeavour to Kve under the influence of the Holy Spirit of Him who can alone safely guide and direct me ! \^th. — I took John Yenning to the Borough Road school, where he was dehghted ^vith the reading of the girls, and very 222 LIFE AND COHRESPONDENCE [1822. much struck with the propriety of their answers to Scripture questions. Second Month IWi. — The marriage of my dear child with Cor- neHus Hanbury, was solemnized at Devonshire House to-day. The meeting was large; a holy solemnity prevailed during part of the time, and they repeated the usual form in a very distinct andfeeling manner. Our precious E. J. Fry was sweetly engaged in suppHcation, and some other Friends, in ministry. After meeting, Mary, CorneHus, and I, went to see my dear mother, who was much affected at receiving us under such circumstances, and uttered several Hvely expressions in blessing the dear cliildren. We went to dine at our kind friend Thomas Christy's, at Clapham. There was a large company, but every thing was very nicely arranged and conducted. I was much supported during the day, in the humble belief that our Divine Master was not far off. We had a memorable meeting in the evening, when doctrine ant. exhortation flowed freely. I beHeve the words vibrated through aU hearts, when dear R. C. said, 'The blessuig of the Lord be upon you ; we bless you in the name of the Lord.'' '^2>rd. — My sister and I took a ride to Loddiges' nursery ground, at Hackney, to confer with him about seeds for Contineas, and the South of Russia.* Third Month \st. — Meeting for Sufferings. The subject of Hannah Kilham's concern to promote the education of the Africans, was brought forward. It was concluded that, at present, the meeting could not take it up ; it did not see its way. Such a minute was however made, as to leave the business open for discussion at the Yearly Meeting. Wi. — Dear John Venning sets off for Petersburg to-day, •\\ith his wife. Wrote to the Princess Sophia Mestchersky." After expressing the comfort afforded by her letter, William Allen says — " I love aU those who I believe love our Lord and Saviour ■* Some of the seeds, sent in 1S20, having been injiu-ed in the voyage, William Men forwarded a fresh supply, which arrived in safety. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 223 Jesus Christ in sincerity. They are my dear brethren and sisters, of wliatever nation they be, or whatever religion tliey may profess. Thou hast felt, to me, as a dear sister in Christ, and it cheers and comforts me to be remembered by thee." " Third Month Wth. — My appeal this morning has been, Lord, thou knowest that I have no other refuge than thee ; 0, let thy judgment subjugate all in me, that is inconsistent with purity of heart, and ever preserve me from speaking in thy name, without thy authority; leave me not, God of my salvation. I have longed for an increase of christian humility, and to be preserved in that charity which thinketh no evil. How deceitful is the heart ! Lord purify it. ISM. — Robert Slade, and W. F. Eeynolds called. They are kindly anxious to retrieve the funds of the British and Foreign School Society. We were about to proceed to call upon the bankers, but reflecting that a few hundred pounds could not extricate the concern from its difficulties, it was proposed tliat we should adopt a bold measure, and raise the sum of five thousand pounds which would pay all arrears of the buildings and advances, then, bringing up the annual subscriptions to one thousand five hundred pounds per annmn, we might go on comfortably. This suggestion was cordially adopted; we began our canvass tliis morn- ing, and received four contributions of one hundred pounds each. 20M. — Spent the evening at my cousin Birkbeck's, and commenced a plan with the Bradshaws, for investigating the cases of the poor in Stoke Newington. Tliey have a map of the \'iQage, and ^\^ll divide the whole into six districts. 1\st. — On waking this morning, the text was sweetly brought to my remembrance, ' As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, God ; ' and I could, in tenderness of spirit, adopt the language, ' Lord, thou knowest all tilings ; thou knowest that I love thee.' I received a letter from Governor Fai-quhar, of the Mauritius, giving an encouraging account of Jeukiu, and of the prospects for the school concern there, and in Madagascar. 224- LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1822. An Englishman, of the name of Horton, whose medical engagements led him to the South of Russia^ having visited the garden at Ekaterinoslav, thus introduces himself to the notice of Wilham Allen, in a letter, dated 21st December, 1821 : — " You win no doubt be surprised at receiving a letter from a perfect stranger, living in the Government of Ekaterinoslav, in the Russian Empire. Professional circumstances obliging me to pay a visit to the said capital, I met with an acquaintance, a Mr. Contineas, in every point of view, a most estimable man. He made you a material subject of his conversation, and requested me to pay a visit to the garden of the Crown, at the same time assuring me how much he, as well as every one connected therewith, was indebted to you for the hberal assistance which you have afforded, by supplying them, at various periods, with seeds, otherwise impossible to be obtained. I shall be happy if I am the means of giving you any satis- faction, when I assure you that the said garden has made a material progress by your assistance, and I am at the same time glad to say, that gratitude on the part of the director, &c., has been your reward. There has been an official act passed, by which means your name will be perpetuated in this country ; that act has allotted a piece of ground in the said garden, as a nursery, in which there is erected a neat monument, bearing your name. As being a countryman, I naturally feel proud in giving you the said information," ((I 'Third Month 22,nd. — Walked to Ishngton school, by the New River, with my dear child and Lucy Bradshaw, to attend the exam- ination of the children ; they performed very well, and, in a confer- ence afterwards, with the Eriends from the associated Quarterly Meetings, much satisfaction was expressed with the state of the school. A very decided opinion was given, against removing this estabhshment out of the reach of a London committee. Some of us staid, and had a rehgious meeting with the dear cluldren before we separated. We were favoured Math a sweet and precious feehng. Both the teachers and the children were addressed, and my dear Mary was engaged m prayer." 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 225 About this period, William Allen first became acquainted with Maria Edgeworth, whose talents amused and interested him. He dined in company with her at Dr. Lushington's, and after- wards met her at Sanmel Hoare's, Jun., where, he says, " there was a very agreeable family party." In a subsequent written com- munication to him, on the subject of the peasantry of Ireland, M. Edgeworth gave a striking proof of those descriptive powers which characterize her notices of this class of her country people. ''Third Month 'ilth. — T received a very sensible anonymous letter a few days ago, requesting me to turn my attention, and that of the friends of religion generally, to the demoralizing effects of fairs held near the metropolis ; wishing us to promote petitions to Parhament to pass an act, at least to restrict them to the sale of merchandize, and to prohibit, under suitable penalties, all sorts of shows, and everything likely to demoralize the poor. I think this an excellent hint, and wish to employ all the influence I may have with members of Parhament, to take up this and other subjects which encourage crime. Lotteries might follow next to fairs. 29^/^. — My dear mother removed from town to-day, to a house which I have engaged for her, at No. 12, Church-street, Stoke Newington. 30^A. — My sister and I went to dine at my cousin G. Birk- becFs, and in the afternoon we aU went to Lodiges' Nm-sery, to see the Camellias, which are now in fuU bloom and very beautiful; there is quite a forest of them ; his hot-houses are, perhaps, the most capacious in the world; one of them is forty feet high; in this, there is a Banana tree, which reaches just to the top. The seeds for Russia are to be ready next week." • Fourth Month \st. — William Allen had for some time been ex- erting himself, in conjunction with some other persons, to establish an Infant School at Stoke Newington, and, on the 1st, he writes — "The Infant School opened to-day. The new periodical, upon the plan of the Philanthropist, came out, and is called ' The Inquirer.' VOL. II, Q 226 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. Fourth Month ^th, — I went up to Pall Mall, to see Sir Robert and Lady Liston, who were so kind to us at Constantinople, and had a very agreeable conference. ^th. — Met the Lanark parties to-day, at Plough Court ; Robert Owen brought forward some extraordinary propositions. It seems to me to be our bounden duty to make a stand ; to examine the children of our population now at Lanark, who have been under Owen's training for years, not superficially, but rigorously in classes, as to their scriptural and rehgious knowledge, as well as other things, also to visit the work people in their famihes, and then decide upon the question of continuing or withdrawing." Soon after this date, W. A. vrrites — "I have made up my mind to have no more discussions with Robert Owen, about his principles, that being clearly waste of time. \^th. — The prospect of attending the next Yearly Meeting in Dubhn, came rather strongly before me to-day; it has once or twice previously been presented to my mind." On endeavouring to weigh this matter, with a simple desire to be rightly directed, William Allen at length concluded upon going over to the Yearly Meeting ; he and Robert Forster travelled together to Holyhead, where they met with Robert Fowlei- and his son Thomas, and, together with J. N. Richard- son, crossed to Howth. The wind was remarkably high, but they were favoured to land in safety. W. A. had intended taking up his quarters at an hotel, but Samuel Bewley insisted upon his going to his house, and from this truly hospitable family, as well as from many other Friends, he received proofs of kindness and attention, which called forth his grateful feelings. He found various opportunities for religious service, and both in public and private ministry, as well as in conversation, was engaged in endeavouring faithfully to perform the work assigned him. x\t the beginning of the Yearly Meeting, he says — 1822.1 OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 227 "I hope I have not acted presumptuously in coming; my prayer this morning was^ to be kept from doing anything wliich might throw the least shade on the cause of my great and o-racious Master ; and that we who are here under an apprehension of duty, may be preserved and comforted, and permitted to depart in peace.^^ Several ministers fram^ England were also at the meeting. The warm interest which W. A. felt in young persons, was frequently awakened in social intercourse, though be did not always give expression to it. On one occasion he says — " I had much conversation with some dear young people, whose faces appear to be turned Zionward." In mentioning his visit to another family, he says — " I encouraged them to be faithful in the performance of the very least thing which should appear to them a duty, and had to point out the importance of closing in with the offers of divine mercy in the day of visitation." In one meeting for worship, where, he says, much solemnity prevailed, the nature and operation of that grace and truth which came by Jesus Christ were pointed out. Many of the company were not members of the Society of Friends, and as he was walking to the house of his kind host, he was accosted by a person who begged to take him by the hand, stating, how much he felt what was expressed in meeting, and adding his earnest wish that William Allen would often come amongst them. The latter directed him to a more effectual guide and teacher, the Holy Spirit of God. In another meeting, he was led to quote these words of the apostle, and to enlarge upon them — " For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified." Q 2 228 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. He mentions the minds of Friends having been much engaged, in one sitting of the Yearly Meeting, in considering the deplorable effects of the use of ardent spirits amongst the poor. His visits to some of the institutions in Dublin were rather encouraging : — " We found the Richmond Bridewell/' he says, " in a much better state than when we visited it in 1820. The rooms were very clean, and the prisoners classed. Robert Forster and I visited the school in Kildare-street, and were much pleased to see the spirited manner in which Jolm Vevers, the superintendent, adopts improvements ; he has introduced Pestalozzi's method of arithmetic, and the linear drawing, with great effect. I was pleased with the manner in which he qualifies his masters.'^ When about to return home, W. A. writes — " I leave Dublin in peac©, notwithstanding, I beheve I omitted two things which I ought to have done; but this arose from back- wardness, — I did not withhold wilfully." On his arrival at home he called upon his mother, and says — " She is as comfortable in her new house as outward things can make her, — this plan of mine has answered completely. Fifth Month V^th. — Robert Owen intends to hold a pubhc meeting about Motherwell, and is very anxious for me to attend, but I refuse to be concerned in it, as we have not sufficient security that the thing will be carried on upon christian principles. I went up to the House of Commons, to canvass members to speak for us at the great meeting of the British and Eoreign School Society, on fifth-day next. Met Robert Slade and William Craw- ford, by appointment." The extensive correspondence which William Allen maintained with various persons on the continent of Europe, produced an inter- change of many interesting and instructive letters. Those of his estimable friend MarianneVernet, of Geneva, not only afford an evi- dence of the piety and devotedness of her heart, but also prove that 2^822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 229 his example of meek submission to the will of his God, when under heavy affliction, in that city, had made a deep and salutary impression upon her mind. In replying to a request from him, that she would have the little enclosm'e, at Sacconet, attended to, she says — " I thought much of you yesterday, when I visited the sacred spot of which you spoke to me in your letter. It is just as you would desire it to be. My heart was lifted up to our merciful Saviour, and I could have wished we had been there together. That place speaks emphatically to my soul; there I received im- pressions which wiU never be effaced. May I be enabled to foUow your footsteps, should God call me to experience such a trial \" " Frftli Month \Wi. — Rose at six: my mind was comforted with the presence of the Lord, on waking this morning, and access to him was granted in prayer. I went to the Freemasons' Tavern to the British and Foreign School Anniversary. The Duke of Sussex came punctually to take the chair ; W. Wilberforce, Lord SufReld, T. S. Rice, M.P., W. Evans, M.P., the Duke de Broglie, the Baron de Stael, the American John Randolph, PhiUipe Ugoui, from Italy, (the friend of Monpiani who is now in prison for liis Hberal opinions), J. Brechet, also from Italy, the friend of Count Porro : audience higlily respectable. The whole business went off very well. Ylth. — Attended the joint meeting for the Meeting for Suffer- ings, and the deputies from the country, to hear read the selections from the Yearly Meeting's Epistles and Advices, since the Book of Extracts was made, in order to form a supplement ; but there was first, the consideration of an appointment to visit Eriends of Pyrmont and Minden, and several Eriends were nominated. \Wi. — Went to call on Lord Suffield, and had much conver- sation with him on the subject of our schools; he is to have a master and mistress from the Borough Road. We conversed also upon my favorite plan of colonies at home; Lord S. introduced me to his lady, and I endeavoured to interest her on the subject of village schools. Hence I went to the City of London Tavern, to the committee for the distressed Irish. It seems tlmt, on the 230 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. western coast of Ireland, the potato crop failed last year, and that famine and fever are the consequence. John Smith, M.P. was in the chair, and T. S. Rice, M.P. was present. Fifth Month 'IWi. — Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders at ten ; I was nominated clerk, wliich was agreed to. Large com- pany at dinner; Robert Owen came in, and says that he is getting on famously in his plan for a colony at Motherwell, near Hamilton; that he has got fourteen members of Parhament on his committee, and wants my name, but I persisted in refusing; telhng him plainly, that I suffered so much once from being on a committee on which there were some enemies to revealed rehgion, that I was determined never to be connected with such again, and I told him that I withdrew my subscription. He was evidently chagrined. 1%nd. — Rose before six : my heart was contrited, and I prayed that I might be preserved from looking back after I had put my hand to the plough. Yearly Meeting at ten — adjournment to four. Josiah Porster was continued as clerk, and Edwaxd Pease and myseK were appointed assistants.^' The business of the Yearly Meeting pretty closely occupied William Allen's attention for some time. After the reading of the Queries in the large committee, he says — "I believed it my duty to make a remark upon the fourth query, on the subject of children, pressing parents to watch over their own spirits, in order that their silent example might beneficially influence the minds of their childi'en. T had peace in it. 26z!y5. — A nephew of H. Kilham's arrived from Petersburg, and brought me a letter from Sarah Kilham, with a good account of her school. 11 th. — In the Yearly Meeting tliis afternoon, Josiah Porster brought forward the subject of slavery in the West India Islands. The meeting entered into it just as we could wish, and a precious solemnity prevailed, which warranted a minute being made, recognising it as a concern of the Society, and the Meeting for Sufferings was directed to act as way might open. I^th. — I met Zachary Macaulay in the street to-day ; he is delighted to hear that Priends are about to bear a pubhc testimony against slavery. 1822..] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 231 Fifth Month 3 1*^. — My dear mother sent for me this morning, particulcu-ly desiring to see me for a few minutes before I went to town; when I reached her bedside, she appeared in a sweet tender state of mind, and though her speech is very imperfect, I clearly understood the substance of what she wished to communicate. She said that the canopy of divine love had been over her that moniing, and that under the influence of it her friends had felt very near to her in spirit, that her soul saluted them in the love of the Gospel, and wished them God speed to the heavenly city, and she desired me to convey her feelings to the meeting of Ministers and Elders. The Yearly Meeting met at eleven, and closed at this sitting. Friends parted in a sweet frame of mind. Sixth Month \st. — Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders, last sitting; I gave my dear mother's message to Eriends in a few words. It seemed to be felt throughout the meeting. hth. — Baron Eridani introduced himself to me. He came with Dr. Salemi. The Baron was very useful to us about the Scripture Lessons at Paris. He is another of the refugees from Italy. Went to John Sanderson's, to attend a committee on H. Kilham's concern. ^th. — John Bowring came by appointment to breakfast with me this morning, in order that we might \vTite letters to Spain, on the subject of the Slave Trade. We accordingly wrote the sketch of a letter to the minister of state at Madrid, to one of the most eloquent of the Cortez, to Coimt Torreno, &c. I am to send the rough copies to Thomas Han-ison, and when he returns them to me, they are to be translated into Spanish, and sent by Bowring to Madrid. — Correspondence committee of the British and Eoreign School Society. Some interesting letters from Spain, New York, and South America. Took Joseph Price with me to a conversa- zione at J. Bowring's. Met the Baron Eridani, Berchet, Ugoni, B. la Roche, and several others. Eridani is a Sicilian ; he is desirous of promoting schools in Sicily, and is a friend of Pictet's. 1th. — Dr. Lushington and W. Crawford called about the Inquirer. Dr. L. thinks he knows of a most suitable person to 232 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1822. conduct it, if we could insure him two hundred pounds per annum, for three years certain ; tliis, I think, is objectionable ; but it was at last agreed, that, if he produced, at least, four sheets in each number, and edited the work, he should, for one year, be guaranteed two hundred pounds. Sixth Month \^th. — To toAvn with my sister A. H. and Maria Bradshaw; E. J. Fry and her husband were waiting at Plough Court, and they, with M. B. and I, went to the Borough Road School, to meet the Priuce and Princess of Denmark and the Baron de Stael. The Princess is a very superior person, — affable and intelligent. They went through the details of the school, and seemed pleased : they staid above an hour andhaK. Wth. — To the African Institution at twelve. L. Howard went with me as far as Steinkopff's, where he introduced me to Pro- fessor Blumhardt, of Basle, who says their training establishment is going on exceedingly well ; it is on the missionary plan. I'oth. — I had a bad cold and felt very unwell ; and if I had not engaged to take Pepys, and R. H. Solly, down to the visitation of the Royal Society at Greenwich, I beheve that I should not have gone. We set off about a quarter-past one ; met Davy, Wollaston, &c., &c. I felt very low and dull. The Prince of Denmark, who has just been elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, was there. We dined at Greenwich. It was a suffering time to me, from bodily indisposition, and, because my mind was not in it. The Prince dined with us, also the Marquis of Lansdowne, Lord Melville, Lord Darnley, Lord Aberdeen, &c., &c. \%th. — ^Went to Winclunore Hill meeting, though I was so unwell, I had some thoughts of staying at home. I, however, felt most easy to go, and was glad that I did. I was engaged in ministry, and feehng rather better than worse, in the afternoon, went to Tottenham. It was a precious meeting. I felt it right to speak on the subject of the spiritual warfare. Mth. — My cold is better to-day, and I am peaceful in the review of the religious labours of yesterday. \?)th. — Received a letter from Petersburg of a discouraging nature with respect to the schools. I suspect that the enemies of ] 822.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 233 education have worked upon the prejudices of some, and the fears of others, to impede this great and good work." By letters from Petersburg, of a more recent date, however, it appears, that the clouds which threatened to overwhelm the great cause of education in Russia, were, happily, dispersed ; and, shortly afterwards, John Venning writes — " For your information, and that of your committee, I have the pleasure to send you, herewitli, an extract of a letter, received yesterday, from his excellency, Mr. Papof, relative to the school for poor Russian boys. I have given in the outhne of a plan for the estabhshment of a model school for two hundred boys and two hundred girls ; the boys to be under the superintendence of Mr. Heard,''^ the girls under Miss Kilham. It will be laid before his Majesty in a few days, and as the beloved Monarch supports whatever is good and beneficial to mankind, I have little doubt but that, through the over-ruling and merciful goodness of the Lord, the plan will succeed. Our foreign school has now one hundred and twenty boys, and had we room, we should have five hundred. The progress they are making is wonderful. The Lord's hand is manifest in the institution. I could tell you some things that would awaken all your love to our Great Master^ but must defer it." In the letter from Basil Papof, above alluded to, he says, in reference to the application to the Emperor, on behalf of James Heard, — " At all events, the name of William Allen will be certainly a good recommendation to the young man." In addressing a member of the British and Foreign School committee, James Heard writes — '' On Monday last, Mr. Venning sent to inform me, that the * The young man who had conducted Count Roraanzoff's school at Homel, and was now sent to Petersburg by the British and Foreign School Society. 234) LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. proposal had received his Majesty's sanction_, and that a committee had been appointed to carry it into execution. Count Romanzoff is pursuing the plan which I left with him, and building village schools all over his estate, and sending the elder monitors from the Homel school, to take charge of them. I have assisted in organizing a German school here, containing about one hundred and thirty boys ; the master knew notliing of the system when he began the school, but what he gleaned from books, and thankfully accepted the improvements which I suggested to him. Miss Kilham's school is to be connected with that for boys, and the whole is to be called the central or model school.'' A few weeks afterwards, he says, in a letter to William Allen— " I was mucli pleased to find, by a letter, wliich I received from Count Romanzoff, yesterday, that he has finished another school in a village called Markovitch : thus, the seed sown at Homel, is spreading over the surrounding country, and will, in time, I trust, produce the happiest results, not only to the peasantry themselves, but to society at large." In pursuing his diary, William Allen writes — "Sixth Month I'dth. — Meeting. I was depressed, and almost from my first sitting do\vn, these words rested on my mind : — ' We, who are in this tabernacle, do groan, being burdened.' I sympathised wdth a suffering, tried state. My dear jVIary spoke for a short time, and her communication was much in unison ^vith what was on my mind, and soon after she sat down, I rose and had to address a deeply tried state. '^hth. — Quarterly Meeting. — A long and able report of the committee of Ishngton school, giving an account of the rise and liistory of that institution. The committee to pro\ade another situation, to call a quarterly meeting before any thing is decided upon. — ^Wrote to Count Hogeudorp, of the Hague ; also to Repalem*e, recommending Josiah Porstcr, Joseph jMarriage, and Peter Bedford to their notice, and requesting information about the colony at Fredericks-Oord, kc. In the evening I went to 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 2.35 Steward Street, to take leave of dear Peter Bedford; Josiah Forster came in, and we sat down in silence for a few minutes, when there was a sweet feeling. I had to address them, and we parted in the love of the Great Master." In replying to the above letter. Count Hogendorp writes — '^The colony of Fredericks-Oord is thriving, and five or six other colonies have grown up around it. From our northern provinces, this wise and benevolent institution has lately been extended to the southern." The London proprietors of the cotton mills, at New Lanark, had for some time considered it right, that a deputation should go down to investigate the state of the concern ; not only with reference to the commercial department, but as it regarded the education of the children, &c. Joseph Foster, Michael Gibbs, and William Allen, were accordingly appointed ; and on the 27th, W. A. writes — " My mind is comfortably supported under a behef, that it is m^ chdy to go to Scotland, notwithstanding I feel it so hard to leave home. Joseph Foster and Michael Gibbs came to Plough Court, and about liaK-past tlu-ee, we set off, going round by South gate and calhng on Jolm Walker on our way. Sixth Month 2)()th. — My mind was turned to the Lord on waking this morning, and I was renewedly impressed with the importance of endeavom-ing to keep in this state through the day. WTiat a privilege do the members of our Society possess, in being taught to wait upon God in the depths of the soul ! " This day was spent at Liverpool, and Seventh Month 1st, W. A. mentions breakfasting at Everton, with Nicholas Waterhouse, and says — "I felt gospel love flow to this family. N, W. walked with us into Liverpool, and showed us their two excellent school-rooms, for two hundred boys, and two hundred girls, supported wholly by 236 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. rriends. The rooms cost about eight hundred pounds. The young women began first with their girls' school, and succeeded well : this set the men to work. We set out for Manchester in the afternoon, and arrived between nine and ten. Seventh Month Srd. — Went to see several mills. We dined at Peter Taylor's ; met some of the most considerable proprietors, and several others. We had much useful conversation on the subject of the labouring classes, wdth which Joseph Poster after- wards expressed liimself highly satisfied. The respectable part of the working people here, are rapidly accommodating themselves with small houses, by means of building clubs ; they give security upon the house, and gradually pay ofi" the cost out of their earnings." After attending the Quarterly Meeting, at Kendal, where he was pleased to meet with Elizabeth Robson and Frances Thomp- son, W. A. writes — "My mind was a Httle comforted; the rectitude of those feelings, which I had in Loudon, relative to attending tliese meetings on the road, has been fully confirmed by events, and I have great reason to be thankful and encouraged. The only alloy is one shp I made, •which immediately occasioned uneasiness. 7t/i. — At Carlisle. — A kind young man, George Head, called to conduct us to meeting. Towards the close, I spoke in ministry, and had peace. We dined at Joseph M. Head^s ; the family exceedingly kind. Meeting in the afternoon. 8t/i. — We arrived at Old Lanark this evening. I feel thankful in being brought here in safety, though we shall have much to go through," This did, indeed, prove to be the case. On investigating the educational department, it was obvious, that a revision of the system was needed ; and the deputation made a decided stand, with regard to some points which were provided foi-, in the articles of partnership. They visited many of the families of the work-people, after which, William Allen says — "I generally adverted to the subject of the Bible, and was pleased to see that the people, universally, not only had the Bible, 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 237 but that they read in it, and many of them daily. We saw a number of rehgious books an\ong them, and I was led to give them serious advice as way opened." They left Lanark for a few days, and proceeded to Glasgow. In the course of this journey, one day was devoted to an excur- sion to Loch Lomond; its beauties afforded interest and pleasure, and W. A. mentions having some serious conversation with one of the passengers in the steam boat. In speaking of his aged friend, John Wigham, he says — " I was comforted in seeing the old veteran, — his day's work is nearly done." He remarked with pain, the number of shops in Glasgow, where spirits are sold. Sometimes four or jfive notices of '' Grocer and Spirits Dealer" meet the eye, in a row. In again returning to Lanark, William Allen was very low, and writes — " I went by myseK to the Palls, in Lady Ross's grounds, and my prayers were put up for the poor work-people at the mills, and their cliildren, and that I might be rightly directed in any decision that I might come to, relative to continuing in, or going out of the concern. In conversation afterwards with Robert Owen, I told him, that I had been rendered so miserable, by the manner in which the important business of the education of the population at New Lanark had been conducted, that I had come to the full determination to withdraw from the concern, unless it was put entirely upon the footing laid down in the articles, or, in short, unless it was placed entirely under the management and control of the London parties. R. O. at first expressed liimself rather warmly, but at length consented that the whole business of education should be managed by them. We afterwards had further important conversation with him. Seventh Month tWi. — Conferences respecting the new arrange- ments. M. Gibbs says, that this visit to Lanark has been of more importance than that to purchase the miEs. R. 0. went with us to Edinburgh. 238 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. Seventh Month VLst. — Alexander Cruikshank called, and accom- panied us to meeting ; I felt it right to speak on the words, ' That which may be known of God is manifest in them/ distinguishing between a mere outward knowledge, and that saving knowledge of God and of Christ, which is hfe eternal. Robert Owen and one of his companions were there. Afternoon meeting at three ; just before the close, I was led to offer a little encouragement to those who could say with the Psalmist, ^All my springs are in thee.' 'i'^nd. — Went to breakfast with Sir Eobert and Lady Liston, at their beautiful place at Milburn ; I met with a very cordial recep- tion, and we had much conversation about the poor Greeks, &c. Sir Robert says that they were the aggressors in the first instance. Started at half-past two for Haddington. 'ilth. — Reached Stoke jSI^ewington to breakfast ; all my feehngs about the propriety of taking this journey, have been remarkably confirmed. What the consequences may be of the views now opening must be left. It seems as if the time for giving up the public lectures might, perhaps, be come. May I be rightly directed ! " Wilham Allen wrote to apprize Robert Owen of their safe arrival at home, and soon afterwards addressed to him the fol- lowing letter : — ^' I yesterday received thy reply to my letter announcing our safe return to London; that reply awakened afresh all the sympathy which I have ever felt for the benevolent part of thy character. Sorry indeed am I to see, that our principles are diametrically opposite ', but may that Great and Holy Being, who seeth not as man sees, so influence thy heart, before the shadows of the evening close upon thee, that it may become softened, and receive those impressions which He alone can give; then thou wilt perceive that there is indeed something infinitely beyond human reason, and which human reason alone can never comprehend, though, in itself, perfectly reasonable. At present, however, it is quite plain to me that ive ynust part. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 239 John Walker lias been made acquainted with all the details of our late visit to Lanark, and he most cordially enters into our views • he is anxious that the education of the children there should;, Avithout loss of timC; be placed upon the footing contem- ]ilated by the Articles of partnership/' '^ Seventh Month ^^th. — Received a very interesting letter from John Venning ; he says that ten thousand copies of the Psalms in modern Euss are issued every month, besides Bibles and Testa- ments. Thus the Lord's work is going on in that vast empire. 30^/^, — ;iiy brother Joseph called, and gave me an account of Thomas ShiUitoe's proceedings in Norway: he is a seK-denying and diligent labourer in his Master's cause. Went to Karslake and Crealock's, to attend the committee on the affairs of a deceased personage. I must press things forward, in order to get tliis tedious business wound up. Returned to Ne^^-ington; met our neighbour Letitia Barbauld at the door, and persuaded her to come in and take tea with us. ^\st, — -^^leeting ; my dear Mar}^ spoke sweetly and exactly to my state , under heaviness through temptations and infirmities. Eighth Month &th, — On waking this morning, the necessity of more self-denial, and taking up the cross daily, was impressed upon my mind, and also of endcavouiing to keep nearer to that, which not only shovv^s what we should do, but what we should refmin, from doing : by tliis means, we should be enabled more fully to stay our minds upon God, and avoid anxious thoughts for the morrow. Though low, and feeling very destitute of good, I thought it best to go to Devonshire House Monthly Meeting, to sit by, and try to sympathise with, my dear brother Joseph, who has a relicdious concern to visit the mectinsis of Warwickshire. Leicestersliii'e, and llutland. My mind became somcAvhat calmed and comforted : towards the close of the first meeting, I spoke on the subject of a believer, and had much peace and rehef; the meeting for business was satisfactory. I. felt, as I thought, a pre- cious degree of good overshadowing us, so that I was glad I went. d)ih. — Mary read to me my own notes of my travels in Sweden, Peter Bedford called^, and gave me a very interesting account of 240 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCB [1822. his late journey to the continent. He and his companions went about one hundred miles out of their way to visit Fredericks-Oord, and were much satisfied. Eighth Month l^th. — Rose a httle after five : my mind calm and comforted. I concluded to visit Longford Monthly Meeting, held at Staines. I spoke in ministry in the first meeting, and afterwards called on several famihes. I'^tk. — Rose with a degree of sweetness on my mind; my soul, on waking, was hfted up to my Saviour. Meeting : I spoke on the subject of prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit seemed to go with the words. In the afternoon meeting, I showed the importance of simple dependence on the Lord, and was comforted in the reward of peace. My Divine Master, I trust, accepts the service of his poor deficient creature. 2l5^. — My mind is, within tliis day or two, pretty powerfully impressed with the feehng that it may possibly be right for me to go to meet the Emperor of Russia, at Vienna. 22^^. — I went attend the Monthly Meeting of Kingston, held, to-day, at Croydon. It was between four and five before the meeting closed. I had much inward comfort and peace in having dedicated the day to my dear Master's service. 23 re/. — I went up to Count Lieven, mth whom I had a long conversation, and imparted to him, in confidence, the im- pression which had been made upon my mind, that it might pos- sibly be my duty to endeavom* to meet the Emperor of Russia, at Vienna, or somewhere on the road^ in his way to Congress ; and I queried whether the Count saw any objection. He said, that on the contrary, he thought it might be desirable, seeing how well the Emperor was acquainted with me, and the very great influence wliich he possessed. It is agreed, that, if I think it right to go, I shaU first have an home's conference with Count Lieven ; and, at at all events, whether I go or not, I am to see him next week. Called afterwards at Earl Bathurst's office ; saw Gordon, liis secretary, and requested a sight of the despatches from Sierra Leone, about the captured slaves; he promises to send them to Plough Court. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 241 Jullien, from Paris, called, also Jobert, and Traiueau, and we had some interesting conversation. Went to John Sanderson^ s, to meet H. Kilham's committee. The great impediment to her goin"" to Africa, is the want of a suitable person to accompany her. Called as usual on my dear mother. Eighth Month 24M. — My mind under some degree of precious feehno-; the burden of Vienna returns. O ! if it be right for me to o-o, may there be increasing clearness that it is divinely required at my hand ! Settled some important points about the hospital lectures with Arthur Aikin. %^tJi. — I told my dear mother of my feelings, about trying to meet the Emperor of Russia, at Vienna ; she bore it remarkably well, encouraging me to attend to the pointings of duty. 28i^i. — Reflecting upon the journey to tlie continent, and earnestly breathing for best direction and help, it seemed to be renewedly sealed on my mind as a duty, and I was ready to conclude, ^ Surely this is evidence enough.' 29M. — I went up to Downing Street, had an interview with Earl Bathurst, and informed him of the object of my journey. He is to introduce me to the Duke of Wellington, who is going to Congress. I thought it was best to inform my own Government, and set out with its good wishes. It was very kind in Earl Bathurst to see me without any previous appointment. 2)^th. — Took tea at John Sanderson's, where there was a com- mittee on H. Kilham's concern. It appears that she is quite ready, but if a suitaole person to accompany her does not offer in the coiu'se of a month, the whole must be put off for another year." In a letter, which William Allen received from Sir Charles Macarthy, soon after his return from Sierra Leone, he says — " I found our good friends, the liberated Africans, cultivating their groimd, and clearing their farms, with zeal and industry. I distributed premiums amongst them, visited the whole of the towns twice, I mean those at the extremity of the Peninsula, and others frequently. They appeared flomishiug. The children have made some progress in reading, and upon the whole, a person who had seen the settlers a few years past, or had visited any of the native VOL. II. R 242 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. villages upon the coast, would return thanks to God, for the bene- volence of our country/^ " Eir/Jith Month 315/5. — I made some beautiful observations this evening with my astronomical circle, and have completely succeeded, by Bailey's method of high and low stars near together, in putting it into the meridian to the fraction of a second, so that now I may be always sure of my observations. Ninth Month ^nd. — Z. Macaulay called, and we conversed about the Slave Trade; went up together to the Duke of Wellington, and conferred with him on the subject; he seems hardly to know what is to be done about it at the Congress; he talked of a registry, but I said that nothing, in my opinion, would put it down, but making it piracy by the great Powers of Europe. I obtained his permission to let letters, &c., be sent to me in his bag from London. From hence, I went to Downing-street, saw the Chancellor of the Exchequer, and requested him to ask Earl Bathurst for a note to introduce me to Prmce Metternich at Vienna; he promises to speak to him. I saw, also, A. Gordon, Earl Bathurst's private secretary, who was very kind, and I requested him to tell the Earl that if he felt any difficulty about giving me a note to Prince Metternich, I would not press it, as perhaps the introduction to the Duke of Wellington would be sufficient ; he promises to write and let me know, and he says that he will also consult the Earl about what may be necessary in the way of passports, &c. The Duke of Wellington told me that my shortest way would be by Brussels, Erankfort, Ratisbon, Src. Called on Baron Eagel, but he was out. Went to Spicer-street, Spitalfields, to the school examination ; the children answered admirably. I addressed the parents, who seemed some of the most respectable of the working class in that district, and particularly adverted to the subject of observing the first-day of the week, and attending a place of worship ; it was satisfactory to myself, 3n/. — -Having felt it best to write a short letter to the Emperor of Russia, to inform him of ray coming, and to prepare the way ; 1 drew up the following this morning : — 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 243 TO ALEXANDER THE FIRST, EMPEROR OP RUSSIA. '^ Permit one who has felt deeply and affectionately for thy present and future happiness, to recall himself to thy remembrance. Since the last memorable interview which Stephen Grellet and I had with thee at Petersburg, when our Heavenly leather was pleased to comfort us together, with the sweet feehng of his divine presence and love, often, very often, have I been tenderly drawn to visit thee in spirit, and, as I was enabled, to raise the secret prayer for thy preservation ; but for some time past, it has been impressed upon my mind, as a religious duty, to try to obtain another interview, and this sense of duty has so increased, that I cannot feel peace in my mind, without giving up at least to make the effort. If, however, any insurmountable obstacles should occur to prevent it, I trust that my Great Master will favour me with peace, in having made the attempt. I purpose, by divine permission, to be at Vienna about the 20th or 22nd of ihe present month called September, our style, and as I shall have encountered some fatigue, hazard, and expense in the journey, may I beg thee to admit me to an interview as soon as convenient to thee, after my arrival, of which the Duke of Wellington, the minister from our Government, wiU be apprized. In a fresh feehng, as I humbly trust, of the flowings of Gospel love towards thee, I remain, Kespectfully and affectionately thine.'" " I went up to Count Lieven, with whom I had much conver- sation, and felt it right to give him my letter to read ; he seemed weU satisfied with it, and I then sealed it in his presence and gave it to hmi; it was directed, according to the Emperor's wish, ' k sa propre main,' and the Count promised to send it by the very first opportunity. We parted imder affectionate feehngs, he requesting me to call upon him as soon as possible after my return. Hence, I went to Chandos House,' to Niemann, the Austrian Ambassador, who received me very kindly, and put me into the best way of getting a passport, directing what sort it should be ; he said he would not only sign it himself, but send it to the Prussian R 2 244 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. Minister, &c. I then went to Downing-street, and called upon my friend Gordon; he had spoken to Earl Bathurst, who had ordered for me precisely the one in question; he went to the Foreign Office while I was waiting, but finding that he could not get it for an hour, he promised to send it, and did so accordingly. In the course of my ride this morning, I was mercifully favoured with the renewed evidence, that this undertaking is right, and my mind was humbled. Ninth Month, Uh. — Meeting, and Monthly Meeting also. My mind was low, but was secretly sustained; and in reference to going forth in my journey, with so little outward support, I seemed to have a precious degree of evidence that the act of faith was ac- cepted, and these words, addressed by the Almighty to Abram, were presented to my mind, with such sweetness, that my spirit was contrited, and my eyes were filled with tears — 'Fear not, I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.' The reply of our dear Redeemer to the apostles, when they said, ' Lo, we have left all, and followed thee,' was also brought to my remembrance. ' Verily, I say unto you, there is no man that hath left home, or brethren, or sisters, or. father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake andlthe gospel's, but he shah receive an hun- dred fold now in this time, and in the world to come eternal hfe.' It seemed as though this were given me for my own encourage- ment only. In the second meeting, I was under considerable exercise of mind, for I had concluded not to lay the subject of my journey before Friends, as a rehgious concern, to be considered, according to our rules, by the Monthly Meeting of men and women Friends united, but merely to ask for a certificate of membership, and my station as a minister. I, however, became uneasy with this deter- mination, and hinted to Josiah Forster, who sat next to me, that I wished to speak to him; we accordingly went out together, and I told him, that it seemed best for me simply to lay before Friends, the state of my mind in reference to tliis subject. He encouraged me to do so, and after returning to the meeting, and explaining my views, a joint conference of men and women Friends was held ; after a pause, in which I felt a httle sense of 1822. J OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 245 divine love^ I told TrieiidSj that it had appeared right for me to pay a visit to the continent,, for objects not necessarily connected with my station as a minister, and therefore, at one time, I had only thought of asking for a common certificate of membership, but as I beheved it would also be right for me to seek out and visit pious persons on my return from Vienna, I wished to lay the concern before them, and more especially, as during my late jonrney, I had some prospect of this service, but was prevented from accomphsliing it, by my illness in Greece. I said that I did not wish to stamp things high, but shoidd feel relieved, if I were left at liberty, should %oay open, to visit the brethren in those parts ; after some time, several Friends spoke encouragingly. I had been exceedingly low before, but this unity of the brethren and sisters, and, above all, the sweet feeling of our divine Master's presence, revived me. It was concluded to appoint a committee, to draw up two certificates, one for me to take with me, the other to be forwarded for the appro- bation of the Quarterly and Morning Meetings, and if approved, it is to be sent after me. Peter Bedford was kindly employed in taking my passport to the Austrian, Prussian, French, and Dutch Ambassadors, to be viseM, and brought it quite finished. He, and Josiah Forster, dined with us. I was engaged in preparing for the journey — writing letters, &c., to my dear sister, and beloved children, at Eastbourne. Ninth Month hth. — My mind low and humbled, but still a belief prevails, that it is my duty to leave aU my outward comforts, and undertake tliis journey in the faith. — To town between nine and ten. W. Wilberforce called, and I took him up to Z. Macaulay's, where we met James Stephen, Sen., and had much conversation on the subject of the Slave Trade, wliich we all agree, ought to be made piracy by the Great Powers, and if it cannot be done by all, then to entreat each power, separately, to do it for itseK, &c. Dined with W, Wilberforce, at Z. Macaulay's, and left them under very precious feelings. I conclude to sleep in town to-night, as my nephew, D. B. Hanbury, and I, are to start early to-morrow morning. Eobert Porster called, and brought me a list of pious persons, known to Stephen GreUet, and whom he visited. Peter Bedford supped with us, and we had a sweet time of religious retirement before we parted. 246 LIFE A2?D COKRESPOXDENCE^ &C. [1822. In a letter received from my dear children this morning, is the following paragraph from Comehus, -which, from the coincidence of feeling it exliibits, is remarkable; that very text respecting Abram, which was immediately apphed to my mind, was given to him to apply also instrumentaUy." " Thou wast brought very sweetly near to me in spirit this morning, whilst we were holding our rehgious meeting, and I felt almost as though I could have embraced thee in the love of the everlasting Gospel, and bid thee, most affectionately, farewell in the Lord. My mind was humbled in gratitude for this precious feeling, and the fresh behef was granted, that our gracious Lord and Master was not only very near to thee now, but that he would also be mercifully pleased to be near thee in the arduous service now before thee, and cover thy head in the day of battle; and tliis language seemed sweetly to revive in my remembrance, ' Tear not, I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.' '' " How can I be sufficiently thankful for such children as I am blessed with." CHAPTER XYII. 1822. — Journey to Vienna — Exertions on behalf of the poor Greeks — Inter- views with the Emperor of Russia, and other distinguislied persons — Proceeds to Verona, and endeavours to promote the Abolition of Slavery, &c. '^ Ninth Month Uh, 1823. — My mind, though under the heavy burden of the concern before me, was sweetly supported by best help. Peter Bedford, J. T. Barry, and Robert Torster, came to see us off. We went to the Custom House quay, where Daniel and I embarked on board the Talbot steam packet for Calais, taking an affectionate leave of our beloved friends. I felt low, but calm and resigned, and comforted with a feeHng of divine love. We proceeded rapidly down the river, but the tide was not in our favour, and the last few miles were very tedious. — We had a long way to walk after landing, before we reached the pier at Calais, and were much fatigued when we arrived at Meurice^s hotel ; but my mind bas been turned to the Lord throughout the day, and I have been favoured with much tranquillity. 1th. — Rose about six : I have a humble hope, yea confdence, that I am in the way of my duty. I went to Quilliac's to see after the carriage brought here by Josiah Forster and Peter Bedford ; it was not sold, and I think it will do for us, with some alterations, which I ordered. We started from Calais about half-past two. The country is flat, and reminds me of Holland ; we see great quantities of tobacco hung up to dry against the outsides of the cottages."*^ Proceeding through Belgium, the travellers arrived at Brussels on the 9th, and put up at the Belle Vue Hotel. William Allen mentions meeting with James Biggs, an Englishman, who had 248 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. been active in establishing a boys' school^ on the British system, and says — "The school is in a flourishing state, the master was trained at the Borough Road, and is a zealous man and well qualified. "We dined at the table d^hote, where I had much interesting conversation with a young Enghshman, who seemed very intel- ligent. I urged him to unite some useful objects with those of pleasure, and he received what I said very well. Called upon a pious friend of J. Biggs' s, and had some agreeable conversation ; also upon a bookseller, who has been a Jew, but is converted to Christianity. Ninth Montli 10//^. — My mind was a little comforted and sup- ported on waking in the night, — anxiety diminished. O, how sweet to trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon our God ! A person from Ostend called about schools; he is sent by the government, or at least, by the municipal authorities, to obtain information. I had much conversation with him on benevolent subjects, and also on religion, which, though a Eoman Cathohc, he received well; I advise him to send a young man to the Borough Road to be instructed. Louis Mertens, a pious person with whom Stephen Grellet was acquainted, called; I found him an extremely in- teresting man, and we had much conversation, principally on religious subjects. I urged him to endeavour to establish a school for poor girls, and to organise a ladies' committee, wliich he seemed disposed to do. I gave him some tracts, and also the Scripture Lessons for the schools here; there will be great difficulty in introducing them, for, on one hand, the priests are enemies to the diffusion of divine light and knowledge, and, on the other, the deists hate and despise divine revelation ; but it is a work of the ever blessed Redeemer; he is omnipotent, and we must leave all to him. L. J. Mertens is a man of considerable property; he is very earnest for me to endeavour to find some pious suitable person who would set up a boarding-school here. He says there is room for several such establishments, and that, if they were superintended by persons of good principles, the consequence in forming the 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 249 minds of the next generation, would be incalculably great. He is a distributor of Bibles and Tracts. Charlier, the pastor, came in, also J. Biggs; Mertens was earnest with me to dine with him, but I settled to go in the evening, and did so. He has an amiable wife and eight children, who seem to be well brought up. The evening was spent in conversation, but my mind was clothed with a precious feehng of the Master's love, and what passed was not common conversation, but pointed towards the one great object which brought me out. Wliat was said seemed to find a ready entrance to all hearts. I was led to dwell much on the benefit and strength of religious retirement in famihes, and of sitting in silence, and we parted in, I tliink I may say, the love of the Gospel. On retiuming to the inn I felt much peace in this day's work. Ninth Month Wth. — Rose about half-past five; my mind calm, vrith a humble trust that I am in my right allotmeiit. We left Brussels about nine o'clock. Saw a good deal of hemp to-day, put up in shocks hke wheat. Lodged at Orey, a small village. \%th. — Anxious on wakuig, not knowing how we should over- come the diificulty about the language, &c., but hope sprang up, and I became comforted ; I try to keep my mind stayed upon the Lord, who is all-powerful. We breakfasted at Liege, and after passing Battice, a charming view opens on our left ; it is a fine country from thence to Aix la Chapelle, which city is in the Prussian territory. We lodged at JuHers, and the following night at Remagen. Soon after leaving this place, we have a capital road by vineyards and gardens ; the Rhine is close on our left, and the views are beautiful. If the mind were quite at ease to enjoy them, they would indeed afibrd pleasure. We had a charming ride this morning, and reached Neuwied a little after eleven ; only German is spoken here, so that I am driven to my resources, but I get on very well. I enquired after John Philip AYiltz, a pious char- acter, whom Stephen GreUet found out, and with whom Robert Forster has corresponded, at S. G.'s request. He is in very infirm health, in consequence of an accident' which he met with by falling down a precipice, when taking something to a poor sick person late at night, but he has a precious mind. I find that the pious people here form part of a regular society, called the ' Inspirees,' 250 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE [1822. and sometimes Quakers ; that the society has existed more than one hundred years, and that its membes have printed rules. They were first refugees from Trance, Alsace and the Palatinate, and they now correspond with similar societies in different parts of Germany. J. P. "Wntz says that they have been visited several times by Priends ; that Claude Gay was here about thirty years ago, also L. Seebohm, from Pyrmont, and, about eight years since, Stephen Grellet visited them. Eobert Porster sent Wiltz a large box of books, which he has distributed widely and with good effect; some were presented to the Prince and Princess of Neuwied, and he has forwarded a number of them to Bergzabern, a place not far from Strasburg, where there is a great awakening, and they have been exceedingly well received every where. The district in which Bergzabern is situated, is to the north of Strasburg, on the western side of the Rhine, and is in the dominions of the King of Bavaria. A young woman, who preaches occasionally, and whose name is Barbara Heyneman, resides there ; she has suffered much persecution from the priests, but the King of Bavaria has put a stop to it. The Inspirees, — though they think they are one with us in prin- ciple — are only so in part. They agree with us in believing in the immediate influence of the Holy Spirit, and in the unlawfulness of war and oaths, — that baptism with water forms no part of the christian dispensation, and that the ceremony of taking bread and wine, called the sacrament, was not instituted as an ordinance. But they differ from us in their worship, as they have singing and stated prayer. They meet every evening in the week for prayer, as well as twice on the first-day. They tliiiik it is not pennitted to go to law at all, but that they ought to suffer patiently all manner of injuries. Ninth Month Vhth. — 1 concluded to attend the worship of the Inspirees this morning ; and Guillaume Noe, a nice young man, who speaks French, and who has been kindly useful to us, came to show me the way. The meeting was held in the house of one of the community ; the women sit on one side, and the men on the other. There were about thirty present, and my mind was brought into tenderness in sitting with them — believing, from their countenances, and my own feelings, that they had known something 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 251 of the renovating power of truth. We afterwards went to call upon the father of our guide, an elderly man, and one of their principal persons ; he is confined to the house, and is never hkely to be out again. I sat a few minutes by him in silence, with my mind retired, and, before parting, addressed a few words to him in German, which occurred to me at the time, and which he seemed to feel much, and took an affectionate leave of me. I then walked by myseK on the banks of the Rhine. My soul was poiu-ed out in secret prayer to the Lord, that He would graciously support and direct his poor solitary one, who had left aU in faith ; and He was pleased to contrite my heart under a sense of liis sweet presence and love. J. P. Wiltz said, that if I did not visit the Prince of Neuwied, I should ever after regret it. I therefore determined to make the attempt this afternoon; I took Daniel with me, and though 1 had no letter of introduction, we were pretty soon admitted. The Prince was very affable, also his mother and sister, who Hve witk him ; his wife is suffering from mental aberration. I endeavoured to make the most of the little time I had, and explained to him that the religious people of Neuwied, though they called them- selves Quakers, differed essentially from us, in several respects. I however told liim, that they resembled us in others, and gave him Benezef s Observations, J. Woolman, Brief Remarks and Thoughts, and H. Tuke's Principles, all in German, except the first ; I also gave him a copy of the Scripture Lessons. We con- versed about schools, prisons, the poor, &c., and I beheve he was pleased with the visit, as well as gratified with the present of books. We parted very cordially. On my return, I went to our friend Wiltz, and spent a considerable time with him. He wishes for another supply of Friends' books, and particularly for fifty copies of W. Penn's Fruits of SoHtude, in German ; he informed me that the King of Prussia has ordered the New Testament to be read in all schools, and that he -has given leave to have school books printed for the use of persons of their communion, a thing unheard of before. I find from Wiltz, that the Inspirees, and the French Prophets, of the Cevemies, have one common origin. There were foiu: Frenchmen 252 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1822. by birth, refugees in England, who resided in London, about the year 1700. They went to Constantinople, under an impres- sion of rehgious duty : Charles PortaJis died at Leghorn, on his way back, but the other three, viz. : Jean AHuet, Elie Marion, and Nicolas Eacio, returned to London, and published a book, contain- ing somewhat of their history ; it is signed with their three names, and "Wiltz g-ave me a copy, in Trench and German. He gave me further information, respecting pious persons in different places, and I find that they have regular annual assemblies for conference, attended by deputies from distant parts ; this meeting circulates, and is to be held at Neuwied, in about a fortnight. Before we parted, we had a religious meeting with Wiltz, his wife, and some of his cliildren, and two young women ; there was a solemn comfortable feeling during the silence ; I had something to com- municate, which I dehvered m Trench, and never got on so well in this way before : J. P. Wiltz interpreted into German. It was a jjpuiirming time, and we took leave under a degree of the precious feeling of gospel love. I imd that the poor, at Neuwied, are suffering very much, in consequence of the ruin of their manufactories. T mentioned to "Wiltz our plan for colonies at home ; he says, that it is admirably adapted for tliis country, where a vast quantity of land remains uncultivated. Ninth Month \^tk. — Left Neuwied about seven o'clock; the scenery of this place is delightful. Daniel read to me in the Tes- tament, and my mind was contrited, at the words in the fifth chapter of Luke, addressed by our blessed Lord to Levi, as he sat at the receipt of custom — ' Eollow me' — only two words, but so effectual, that he immediately arose — 'left aU,' and followed Christ. O, that 1 may do so too ! I had a precious feeling of divine love, as I rode along — this serves to keep me up under my numerous discouragements. The Rhine was close on our left, vine-covered hhls on the right, and a fine prospect before us. As we advanced, a beautiful expanse of water was terminated by a bridge of boats, connecting Coblentz and Ehrenbreitstein. At the latter place, very extensive fortifications are carrying on, and many men are employed. There is a strong castle at the top of the 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 253 rocks. We have had some truly grand views this monung, par- ticularly on approaching Montabaure. We lodged at Koenigstein, and reached Frankfort the following day ; soon after our arrival^ I went to the post-office, and found a letter from Samuel Seebohm, in reply to an enquiry, whether he could meet me here, stating, that he was sorry he could not join me. This was a Httle discouraging, as it is exceedingly difficult to get on without an interpreter, but looking to my great Master, it was presented to my mind, that I had been led to undertake this journey, under feelings which had never yet deceived me, and I became cahn and comforted. I also found here a letter from my precious child, and a few kind and feeling lines from dear J. T. Barry: all well at home to the 10th; this is so far relieving. I found out C. S. Lix, the Moravian, recommended by Wiltz, and, at his house, I met with J. D. Marc, a converted Jew, the missionary from the Jews' Society; he seems an agreeable man, and has an excellent wife, born in Spitalfields. P. Bedford knows the family ; they are now residing here, but expect soon to be removed to Dusseldorf. I had some talk about a servant, who could act as interpreter. Marc recommended a converted Jew, whom he knew to be a very honest man, and who could speak English. I saw the person, and must think about it. I went to see Frederick Meyer, the senator, and had a good deal of interesting conversation with him. I find, that they have excellent institutions here, but that it would take several days to see them. He says, a society of ladies has been very useful amongst the poor, and that there is a new prison building. I gave him our prison rules and questions. On parting with him, 1 again went to Lix's, and on conversing farther with J. D. Marc, about the servant, finally agreed to take him, — his name is Balthaser Narolsky. Both Marc and Lix introduced me to their famihes. I had some rehgious communication with them under a comfortable feehng. Lix offered me the use of the Moravian meeting-house, if I wished to have a meeting, but it did not seem laid on me at present. I parted affectionately with these dear people, and felt my mind strengthened and comforted. 254 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [18S 22 Ninth Month \Wi. — Marc called. I find that Professor Leander Van Ess is now established at Darmstadt. The Catholics are eager for Bibles, and there is a great stir among them ; they come to TranMort from a distance to purchase them. I gave Marc a copy of the French Scripture Lessons, besides other pamphlets. He wants more of Tulce's Principles, in German, and would be glad of Tracts. AYe left PrauMort in the afternoon, with J^farolsky. \^th. — My mind culm and comfortable, though I go on in simple faith, seeing nothing but that it is my duty to proceed. We entered the Bavarian territory to-day. I think my plan for colonies at home would answer admii-ably for this country, as well as for Russia and Prussia. ^\d. — On arriving at Nurenberg, I went to enquire after several persons whom Stephen Grellet visited when here; one of them is deceased and some were absent. Neumann was of this number, but liis Avife received me in a very becoming manner, as a christian friend, and as one who claimed kindi-ed with all those who love the Saviom'. I felt her spuit near to me, as a sister in the truth, and gave her one of my Brief Eemarks in German. This kind friend sent her grandchild to show me the way to one of their pastors, who seems to be a superior man ; he gave me some information about the Bible cause, &c. I afterwards met with another interesting character, who was veiy kind, and I regretted that I could not stay a day or two at this place." After passing througli Ratisbon, where they made but a short stay, he continues — "23rr/. — I had been very low in the night, respecting my journey ; but, during the day, my Divine Master granted me his support, and sweetly calmed me, so that my mind was stayed on Him, and my faith strengthened in the renewed evidence, that He had indeed sent me on this errand, and would support me through it. Soon after our arrival at Pfetter, INTarolsky informed me, that a gentleman in the inn, with signs of an order at his breast, told him, that he should b;.; very glad if he could speak a word or two 1822.] OF WIXLIAM ALLEN. 255 to me. I immediately went down stairs, and was accosted in a very kind and respectful manner by Le Chevalier de Prentner, of Straubing, who formerly held an official situation at Munich. He is particularly interested about prisons — says that much is doing to ameHorate the condition of them, and that they are building one at Munich. He wishes me, when I come there, to see Le Comte de Eeigersberg, Minister de Justice, k Munich. He says, that it has been very painful to him, when he has had to pronounce sentence of death, and wished to know, whether I thought it abso- lutely necessary. I soon gave him my sentiments, also, one of our Prison Disciphne Reports, the Prison Questions, and Rules for Prisons; I bkewise gave him Friends' Address on the Slave Trade. I was much pleased with liim, and with this opportunity. Ninth Month %'ith. — My mind was comforted and refreshed, as I rode along. I have been favoured with a little sweet feeling of my heavenly Master's love, and trust that some congenial spirits, at our Quarterly Meeting, are sympathising with me. We have passed the last douane, in Bavaria, to-day, and have entered the dark country of Austria." On arriving at Scharding, the first town in the Austrian do- minions, all William Allen's books and pamphlets were taken, and secured in one parcel, which was to be presented to the censor, at Vienna, and receive his sanction before any use could be made of them. The parcel was sealed with a leaden seal, and a deposit was required, amounting to nearly four Napoleons : this was to be returned, on the money being demanded at Vienna. Proceeding by Lintz, on the road towards Vienna, he whites, after passing Molk— "This stage T spent almost wholly.in silence, meditating upon the concern which brought me from home, but still, the fixed and settled feeling remains, that I am in the way of my duty, and that I must go on in the faith. I was humbled, in best help and sup- port being thus granted, even in the needfid time. 256 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCJi [1822. We are now in a very open country, but here and there are small enclosed patches, full of saffron, in blossom. The roofs of the houses are universally covered with httle squares of wood resembling tiles; the walls are brick and plastered, and are of con- siderable thickness, and there is iron grating before the windows. We meet with a remarkable breed of hogs, with curly hau-, some- what like sheep. Ninth Month -Zlth. — We started from Bmkersdorf, a httle after six, and reached Vienna between seven and eight o" clock. The two first inns we drove to were full, I then came to the City of London Hotel, and here we are well accommodated. The master, Alexander Schwabe, speaks English, and was six years with T. W. Smith ; he is much attached to W. P. Ecynolds — this appears hke something providential. Lord Straugford lodges in the same house, and seemed quite glad to see me. After breakfast, I copied my letter to the Emperor of Eussia, and wrote a note en- closing it to Baron Wylie. The Emperor is at the palace, I drove there, and met with Baron Wylie, who was rejoiced to see me ; he opened my note, and sent the enclosure to the Emperor, who was in the house, but was engaged. Li descending the great stair- case, where the soldiers were keeping sentry, with fixed bayonets, I saw a tall genteel person, in military uniform, covered with gold lace, come out of a passage, which communicated with the Em- peror's apartments; the guards presented arms, and there was I with my hat on : he was lower down than I, and I hung buck to give him time to go forward, but he halted, and looking back witli a smiling countenance, said, ' Are you not an Englishman?' I said I was, and gave him my card. '0,' said he, 'you have been to see me in London.' By this I found it was Prince Esterhazy : he asked me, why I bad not been to see him : I told him I was but just arrived, and he then wished me to call upon him, at his father's, to-morrow, which, though it was first-day, I thought it right to engage to do. I returned to the hotel, and shortly after- wards. Baron Wylie sent for me, to say, that the Emperor would see me this evening, at eiglit o'clock, and that he seemed quite pleased with my arrival. AYhen I went, at eight o'clock, how- ever, Prince Metternich was with him, and about half-past ten, he 1822.] OF -WILLIAM ALLEN. 257 sent to express his regret, that it should have happened so, and to request me to come at eight o'clock, to-morrow evening. I re- turned to the inn; my mind peaceful and calm, witli the full conviction that I am in the way of my duty. N'mth Month 'i^th. — Went to the censor's office about the books ; I cannot, however, get them, and unless Prince Metternich will write a Hue, they must go to the censor, where they are liable to be detained a month, or more. I received a note from Baron WyKe, inviting me to dinner, and desiring me to bring Daniel. Called upon him at the palace, and then went to Prince Esterhazy, but, although he was at home, and waiting for me, I was denied by a military man, to whom I gave my card. On returning to the hotel, I wrote the Prince a note, who, in reply, sent his English servant, to say how sorry he was at the mistake, and requesting me to caU upon him to-morrow, at my own time. Dined with Baron Wylie, at three o'clock. The streets of Vienna are narrow, and the houses high and remarkably well built, with, very generally, double windows. Returned to the hotel in the afternoon, and at half-past seven went back to Baron Wylie, who informed the Secretary in Waiting that I was come, and shortly afterwards I was sent for. On entering the Emperor's apartment, he immediately advanced to meet me, and took me by the hand in the most cordial manner, expressing the gratification he felt in seeing me. After conversing a little, he made me sit down by him, and said he had nothing to do all the evening but attend to what I had to say. He asked whether we should first pray together. I replied, that having several subjects to speak upon, which might be considered as of an outward nature, if he pleased, we would discourse upon them first, and then take a little time for retirement ; but I left it entirely to his decision, whether this should be first or last, and he was quite willing that I should proceed. Not knowing whether this might not be the only opportunity of seeing him, I put down the subjects on which T wished to speak with him. The first was the Colonies. He told me that there had lately been a great accession to the number of the Mennonites from the neighbourhood of Dantzic, and that he continued to be extremely well satisfied with them. VOL. II. s 258 LIFE AND CORKESPONDENCE [1822. 1 related to liim some of the circumstances of the visit which Stephen Grellet and I paid to them, as, the meetings we held among them, their rehgious sensibility, &c. The Emperor said he was far from being satisfied uith some of the other colonists, particularly the Duhobortsi, of whom he has no favourable opinion; he said that he had been amongst them, but he did not seem to know much about the Malakans. I, however, laboured to explain the wide difference between the Malakans and the Duhobortsi, the Malakans beheving fidly in divine revelation, and valuing the Scriptures, which the others do not; of this he was apprized. I told him, that, from what we had seen of them, and the little meethig which we had with some of those at Simferopol, we believed them to be a simple-hearted people. The Emperor said that he had located several of them in South Russia, but he had not yet received any report of them. I expressed a hope that, if they were sufficiently settled in theii' principles, they might, by degrees, draw over the Duhobortsi to them. I then showed him my plans for colonies at home, with the drawings of cottages, &c., and briefly explained the outline of them, leaving them with him for a few days, that he might look at them more at his leisure. I stated, that a modifica- tion of them might be highly useful in Russsia, and that some of the seigneurs might, by these arrangements, draw a greater revenue from their peasants than they had at present, while, at the same time, they might be preparing them for freedom ; he fully agreed with me, and seemed interested in the subject. We now spoke of Schools, and I thought it right to tell the Emperor of the report which had been current in England, that he had suppressed schools upon the British system through- out his dominions. He said this was not the case, that if I came into Russsia I should find them flourishing, and that he only discouraged those who would teach from the French Lessons, reminding me that it was we who first put him upon his guard ascainst them. He said that he had ordered no other book to be taught throughout his dominions, than that very selection of the Holy Scriptures which we made at Petersburg. I informed him of the fund which we had raised for printing them in the different languages of Europe ; that they were printed in Erench, in Itahan, 1822.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 259 and in Spanish, and were likely to be used tlirougliout South America. The Emperor expressed much gratification on hearing this. The conversation on this subject was extremely reheving to my mind. I laid before the Emperor the present state of the Slave Trade, and showed him the drawing made by Samuel Croad, of Ports- mouth, of the Vigilante, one of the Erench slave ships, lately taken by Sir R. Meade's squadron at Bonny, or rather by the boats under one of his captains. I showed him also the thumb- screws taken on board this vessel, and left the drawing, with the description, for him to look at after I was gone. He assured me that he was entirely with us in this business, and quite disposed to do everything in his power to make the abolition complete. I expressed my decided opinion, that nothing short of making the Slave Trade piracy, or, at least, putting the persons engaged in it, out of the protection of the laws of their country, would accompHsh this end. I earnestly entreated him to endeavour to carry this point in the Congress, and if this should be found impos- sible, that he would then set the example himself, and use his influence mth other Potentates also, to do it separately, that the guilt and the odium might rest upon those nations that refused to concur in the measure. The Emperor most fully agreed to the desirableness of such a procedure, and I said that we depended very much upon liim in the discussions which would take place on the subject in Congress. I found that he had read Sir James Mackintosh's speech, in which he was treated with some asperity, but, so far from expressing any resentment, he spoke of it in a very christian manner, merely as a misconception, and asked my opinion of Sir James. I then stated to the Emperor that his having, in the tariff, prohibited the sugars of those nations that had aboHshed the Slave Trade, and admitted them from the nations that had refused to abohsh it, was much taken notice of in England as an inconsistency. He assured me that he had resorted to the measure of prohibition, purely as a matter of self-defence, and that it was, as I understood him, confined to refned sugar, with a view to protect his own sugar refiners ; that while, since the treaty of Vienna, other Powers had increased then- proliibitions, he 260 LIPE AND CORUESrONDEXCK [1822. had refrained from doing so, until at length he found that the balance of trade was turning against him, but that he was one of the last to adopt those measures ; that with respect to sugar, if lie had seen the business at the time, in the point of view in which it was now placed, he would have given it a consideration. I put into his hand the letter from Thomas Clarkson, and that from Wnberforce, both which he laid aside to read when I was gone. He smiled when he took Clarkson's letter, and said, 'That is Clarkson's writing.' I mentioned to him that in the parcel of books, wliich had been seized by the douaniers, were several things relative to the Slave Trade, which I wished to have laid before him, and we then had some conversation relative to the desirableness of my going to Verona, to be at hand to urge the business with the Duke of Wellington, and to furnish facts to meet the arguments of the Prench. I said, that I by no means wished to go, unless the Emperor thought it most advisable ; he replied that he would turn the matter over in his own mind, and in the course of two or three days, he would tell me what he thought ; but that I must see him again, and, at all events, wait. I happened to have one of Triends' Address to the Inhabitants of Europe on the Slave Trade,' in German, which he desired to keep, meaning, I believe, to show it to the Emperor of Austria ; I said, I Avished that leave could be obtained to reprint it here. I informed him of what Friends had done in raising a subscription, and printing Tracts on this subject, in different languages, with wliich he expressed himself much pleased. The conversation then turned upon the Greeks. I related what dear Grellet and I had seen of them in our travels, and my conviction, that, by proper treatment and management — especially of their youth — they might be made a fine people. I mentioned what we had seen of Bambas's school at Scio, the progressive state of improvement among the people, and their eagerness for the Scriptures and Tracts; also the kindness with which we were entertained amongst them, but that some of these very persons had since been murdered, and their families sent into slavery in Turkey. The Emperor seemed to feel deeply for them, and said, he had proofs that this rebelHon against the Turks was organized 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 261 at Paris^ by the revolutionists, who wished, above all things, for a war, and to make the Greeks the means of embroiling the Powers of Europe — that the Gpeeks were certainly an oppressed people, but that their resistance was premature, they were not prepared for it, and the consequence was, that they were now ten times worse off than before — that if he were to interfere, war might become general ; he considered it a permission of Divine Providence, that must be submitted to. I mentioned the circumstance of his having put do\ATi tlie Freemasons' societies in his dominions. He said it had long been done in the place where we now were, and that he had proofs of their concerting measures, secretly, which might prove dangerous. I stated my hope, that this prohibition did not extend to societies bond fde for benevolent purposes, observing, that good men should be encouraged to unite their efforts in doing good, and dwelling a little upon the usefulness of such societies. With this he perfectly agreed, and set me at ease on the subject, assuring me, that it was far from his intention to discourage these associations, and giving, as a proof, his continued patronage and support of Bible Societies. On my adverting to the circumstance of the resignation of Prince Alexander Gahtzin, as President of the Prison Discipline Society, the Emperor said, that, knowing the Prince had too much upon him, he had nomi- nated another person. I showed the plate of the tread wheel for the employment of prisoners, with which he seemed interested, and I left it \nth him ; he repeatedly expressed liis gratification at seeing me, inquired about dear Stephen, and said that he often thought of him and of me, and prayed for us. During the whole of the conversation, there was such a sweetness to be felt, that all fear was taken away, and we conversed with the familiaritj- of old friends and acquaintance. I ventui-ed to entreat him to endeavour to get the Emperor of Austria to relax a httle in some of his measures, which savour too much of intolerance, and I related the mischief which had been done among' the Catholics of Smyrna, who had been almost ruined by a fanatic missionary priest; he received every thing in the kindest manner. It was now drawing towards ten o'clock : as I expected to see him again, I did not wish to proceed farther with these topics, and made a pause, in whicli 262 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. my mind was favoured to feel something of the overshadowing of the Lord's power. The Emperor took hold of my hand and said, ' Have you anything for me ? I am now ready to hear what you may have to communicate/ at the same time inclining his head towards me. A-fter a short silence, I addressed him in the fresh flowing of Gospel love, saying that I had been brought into a feeling of sympathy with him, beheving that he had experienced many and deep trials, and had been, and was, surrounded with difficulties ; here he pressed my hand and seemed affected ; but T encouraged hiin to look to the Lord for support and direction, saying I did believe that if the Emperor kept his eye singly to Him, with a desire to do His will, that whatever tribulation might be suffered to befal him, it would be a means of establishing him more firmly on Jesus Christ, the sure foundation ; I dwelt also upon the safety of those who love the Saviour, and endeavour to stay their minds upon God. Much more than I can possibly recollect flowed freely with, as 1 thought, the power of the Holy Spirit, and I concluded with the text, ' Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore ^vill I deliver him.' We were both contrited with the sweet feeling of Divine Goodness, and on my remarking that this made me forget for the moment the difference in our relative situations, he put his arm affectionately round me. On parting, he repeated liis wish to see me again after three days. It was now between ten and eleven o'clock, and T returned to my nephew^ at the inn, with reverent thankfulness to my Great and Good Master, who is an ever present help to the least and feeblest of his servants, who rely entirely upon Him. Ninth Mcwth l^t/i. — Went to Prince Esterhazy, about eleven o'clock, and was immediately admitted. The Prince speaks English quite fluently, and the first business we entered upon was the Slave Trade, the conduct of the French respecting it, &c. I then spoke of prisons, and showed him the plan of a prison for three hundred. This subject he took up warmly, and wishes to correspond with me respecting it; he is also desirous of having further conversation with me before I go. I now took the hberty to remark that the Austrian Government, on account of its rigour, was not, at present, respected by the thinking part of the community in England, by 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 263 that part who were friends to religion and government ; that its shutting up the schools, at Milan, had excited feelings of strong disgust, and that many considered the government as bigoted, and hostile to the progress of light and knowledge. He allowed that perhaps they were rather too strict, but that this arose from their fear of the principles which brought about the French revolution ; he however assured me that the Emperor was a very worthy man, and a good domestic character. We eonversed upon the state of the poor, and I explained to him my plans for colonies at home, with which he appeared pleased, and wished to know more about them. The Prince expressed a desire to see me again the day after to-morrow, and says, he expects to be in London in the Third Month next, when he wishes me to call upon him. After my return to the inn, I had Narolsky in, and read several chapters in the Epistles to the Thessalonians, to him and Daniel ; we then sat some time in silence, and I afterwards had to make a few remarks on one of the verses we had been reading,— ^'^ Quench not the Spirit.'' The subject opened instructively, and I had peace in alluding to it. Ninth Month SOth. — I received a notice to attend upon the head of the police, Comte Sedlnitzky. I was in hopes it was to receive my books, which had been seized ; but when I entered the officcj^ I was surprised to see the Count hold in his hand the very pamplilet, 'Eriends' Address on the Slave Trade,' which I had given to the Emperor of Russia. He said that Comit Nesselrode had applied to him, by order of the Emperor, for leave to have it printed, and that there was no objection : it might be printed and sold at Yienna. This is a pleasing circum- stance, as it shows the zeal of the Emperor. The Count recom- mended me to call on Prince Metternich, which I did, but he was absent. I sent in the evening to enquire what time I could see liim, but found he was on the point of setting off on his journey towards Verona,' and that the Emperor of Austria follows him to-morrow. Received a note from the Duke of Wellington, stating, that he should be happy to see me at eleven o'clock to-morrow. Tenth Month \st. — I determined to make a vigorous effort to get my books which had been seized, and went to the office of the 264- LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. head of the pohce. Count Sedhiitzky. The Count was not there, but I spoke to the person immediately under him, stating, that I m-gently wanted some of the tracts, to shew to the Duke of WeUington, whom I was to meet this morning by appointment. He was very civil, took my address, and in a few hours the books were sent to me. I then waited on the Duke, and after a Httle delay, he came out of his room, and called me in to him. After some conversation respecting the Slave Trade, I told him this was a large subject ; that I knew he was very much harassed at pre- sent, that Lord Strangford was then waiting to speak to him, and that if he would permit me, I would wait upon him when he had more leisure. He seemed to take this well, and said he should be glad to see me at eleven o'clock, the day after to-morrow, as he did not set off, towards Verona, for some days. Hence I went to Sir James Wylie's. I find that the Emperor intends setting out to-morrow, and that he is to meet the King of Bavaria by the way. I concluded it best to address a few hues to the Emperor, stating, that I should wait his orders, and afterwards met Prince Esterhazy, who behaved in the most affable manner. After dinner, I received a note from Sir James Wylie, to say, that the Emperor wished to see me at half-past five o'clock, when I accord- ingly went. He received me very kindly, and made me sit do^vn with him at the table; he had read over my papers, about colonies at home, said he liked the plan very much, and when it is perfected, I am to send him the particulars, either through Sir James Wylie, or Prince Alexander Gahtzin. He invites me to send to him, whenever I tliink proper, and says, he is always glad to hear from me. With respect to Friends' Address, he told me that he, had made a communication to the Austrian government, through Count Nesselrode, and that leave had immediately been given for reprhiting it ; he said he should be gratified, if I thought it right, to go on to Verona, as it would give him more oppor- tunity of conversing with me, but he advised me to consult the Duke of Wellington. I told him, tliat my inclination was to return home as soon as possible, but that if it appeared to be my duty, and that I might be useful, I was ready to make the sacri- fice. We had much general conversation, in perfect freedom, and 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 265 tliis was in a high degree interesting. We spoke of Sarah Kilham, with whose exertions he expressed himself perfectly satisfied. I recommended her school to be made a place for training pious younc women as school-mistresses. I was sensible, during the whole of the interview, of a precious covering of the Lord's spirit, and it seemed so to increase, that I gave up speaking of outward matters, and the conversation turned entirely upon what related to a better country. The Emperor asked me, if I would not take some tea with him, to which I readily assented; he rung his little hand beU, and the servants came, and received his orders ; two cups were brought in, but mine had sugar in it. The Emperor immediately ordered it to be changed, and tliis led me to speak further of the poor Africans, but we soon came again upon rehgious subjects, and these were the topics on wliich he dehghted to dwell. He said he had suffered from being educated by those who had no sense of vital rehgion, but that since the year 1812, when his mind was first reached by the power of truth, he had endeavoured to hve conformably to what he beheved to be the divine wiU; he felt that he was a poor weak creature, but he constantly prayed for assistance. He said, that finding so httle company that suited him, he spent much of his time alone, in his room, for he felt that he suffered loss, when he was much with those who were in the spirit of the world ; 'but,' said he, ' when I am with you, and such as you, who love the Saviour, I can breathe.' He said, that he found it necessary to keep up the warfare continually ; he then opened his whole heart to me, told me of liis trials, and his temptations, com- paring them to the thorn in the flesh, which the apostle describes. ' And if,' said he, ' the holy apostle was thus tried, need we wonder, if it is the experience of such poor weak creatures as we are. But let us remember what the answer was to liim when he prayed to be delivered — ' My grace is sufficient for thee.' Here it does not appear that he was exemj)ted from the trial, but was shown where he was to find liis support under it.' A¥e now sat some time in silence, when I kneeled down, and supplicated for the blessmg of preservation. The Emperor knelt on the floor by me. On rising, we were again sflent for a few minutes, and then, under a sense of the renewed visitation of our Heavenly Father's love, took leave of each 2Q6 LIFE AJ^B CORRESPONDENCE [1823. other, not knowing but that we might _possidli/ meet again at Verona. He grasped my hand, and it came into my mind to tell him, that though I was conscious of being a very weak and feeble instrument, I believed that our Divine Master had sent me to comfort and en- courage Mm; he replied, ''I believe so/ He then embraced, and kissed me. One of the last things he said, was, ' When you write to Grellet, teU liim all about me.' After leaving the Emperor, I sat some time with Sir James Wyhe ; he has been a kind and true friend, and parted with me affectionately, wishing much that I may join them again at Verona. On returning to the hotel I felt reverently thankful, that I had been strengthened to give up, in simple faith, to the apprehension of duty. I had, in the course of conversation, to tell the Emperor, how the concern came upon me, how jealous I was, in the first instance, lest it should arise from creaturely activity, and my affection for him, but that, whenever I attempted to put it off, it returned again, and I only found peace in submitting. Tentk Month "Incl. — I endeavoured to find some person to interpret for me to the poor Greeks, who are passing through here almost every day, seeking refuge from their bloody enemies the Turks. Many of them have lost their wives and chddren, as well as their property, and have walked till their feet are inflamed. The Austrians will not let them stay here, but force them to go on to Ancona; hitherto they have not even permitted them to take the shorter road by Trieste. A poor fellow, who has lost all, is at the inn, and is almost deranged; I went up to see him, and gave liim something for his present exigencies. According to appointment, I then waited upon Prince Esterhazy. We had a discussion on the Slave Trade, and he says that he agrees with me in principle, but it is evident that he has not been an advocate for the Abolition. Einding it of httle use to press this subject further, I merely stated my feehngs respecting it, and turned to the subject of prisons, in which he does seem interested; I dwelt upon the great duty of attempting to reform criminals, but observed that it was better to prevent than to cure, and we went into the subject of education. He says he has large estates in Hungary, where something of the kind is much wanted. I referred him to the first article in the 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 267 ' Inquirer/ and promised to lend it to him to read, as I have only- one copy. His father coming in^ I took my leave, but the Prince requested me to come again to-morrow, at ten o'clock, which I agreed to do. In the afternoon I went to the printer's to see how they were getting on with the Address on the Slave Trade ; I find we can have it to-morrow evening. It seems that morals are in a very low state here. In the evening, the valet de place brought me two Greeks, resident in this place, who speak French, and are in office in the Greek church. They described to me the deplorable situation of the refugee Greeks; that the residents here had had a fund, but it was exhausted, and they dare not raise a subscription without leave of the pohce, and this they did not know how to obtain; I en- gaged to apply on their behalf, both for this, and for leave to go by Trieste. I was informed that the son or brother of Jean Ylastow, of Scio, whom I had visited when there, was now at Yienna ; I wish- ed to see him, and he accordingly came to me. He seems very energetic, and of strong passions; his wife and children have joined him within these ten days. He gives a terrible account of the massacre at Scio ; he mentioned several persons who would be thorouglily trustworthy in the apphcation of any funds for the rehef of the refugees, and is to come again to-morrow. Tenth Month 3rd. — Wrote a note to the Minister of Pohce, requesting an interview, and had a very kind answer, appointing one o'clock. Gusella came with a written statement about the Greeks; sent for Pantaleon Vlastow, and had more conversation with him respecting Greece. He reminded me of their college under Bambas, and of then hbrary, both of which are burnt and destroyed. He says, he has one thing greatly at heart, and that if I could assist them in it, he should consider me as a father. All the professors are kiUed or dispersed, but the college had two young Greeks, of excellent talents, training at Paris, under Koray, the famous Grecian ; they are from twenty to twenty-three years of age, and are the hopes of their country. The charge is five thousand francs per annum, for the two, or about two hundred pounds — say fifty pounds a quarter. They were paid for by the college, but they are all ruined together, and these young men. 268 ■ LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. unless means can be found to retain them, must leave their studies. I enquired particularly, whether they were training as philosophes, of the Trench school, but he assured me, that they were brought up on the principles of the Greek christians. In reflecting upon it, I thought we might, without much difficulty, raise fifty pounds for one quarter, and have time to correspond, and, perhaps, I might visit them, at Paris, before the next was due. I accordingly agreed to advance fifty pounds, in the hope that Eobert Forster, to whom I purpose to write, will be able to raise the money by subscription. I then went to fulfil my appointment with Prince Esterhazy. We talked about the poor Greeks, and he promises to send my appHcation to the Minister of Pohce. I explained to him my plan of colonies at home, with which he was particularly pleased, and engaged me to let him have a copy before my departure. On leaving him, I hastened to the Duke of Wellington, who received me very kindly, and put into my hands a letter he had just received from Zachary Macaulay, together with Sierra Leone Gazettes. He said he had been considering the subject, and thought it very desirable that I should go to Verona. I told liim that it would be very disagreeable to me to be thought intrusive or meddling, and that, if I could not be made useful, I had much rather not go. He replied, that if it were very inconvenient to me, it was not his business to press it, but, that having so many things to attend to, he did not feel himself so thoroughly versed in the subject as I must be, and as I might be able to assist him on this point, he particidarly wished I should go. T had not been without a feehng, that such might be the issue, and I told him that my heart was so bound to the cause, that though it was no small sacrifice, in every respect, I would go. He seemed pleased with the decision, and I have arranged to set ofi" to-morrow. About one o'clock, I waited upon Count Sedlnitzky, the Minis- ter of Police. He received me with great kindness, and after thanking him for the permission to print Priends' Address, on the Slave Trade, a proof of wliich I gave him, I presented the request of the poor Greeks. With regard to the matter of Trieste, he said. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. ; 269 that it was prohibited, lest the Turks should reproach them, with giving facilities to their enemies to get away by sea, and fight them ; but with respect to the apphcation about the subscription, he would consult others. I thought he seemed as if he would concede this point, though he feared that a part of the money might go to aid their brethren in arms. P. "Vlastow came this afternoon, and we had more talk about Greece. I wrote a letter, requesting dear Comehus to pay the fifty pounds to Mavracordato, taking his receipt. I also wrote a letter about the poor Greeks, to Prince Esterhazy, begging him to go to-morrow to the Minister of PoKce, and second my application, as he promised. Tenth Month Mh. — Wrote a long letter to Z. Macaulay, about the Slave Trade. Ylastow and another Greek came, and took up an hour or two. It is heart-rending to hear details of woe which one cannot reheve, but I do think strong remonstrances ought to be made in favour of the wretched Greeks, taken as slaves into Asia, by the Turks. I must speak to the Duke of Wellington about them, at Verona. ^th. — Advanced ten Napoleons for the poor Greeks, who daily pass through here, on their way to Ancona. I went to Prince Esterhazy* s, and gave him a copy of my plan for colonies at home. He took leave very kindly, and says, that in consequence of my request, the government vdll permit the Greeks to make a col- lection for the refugees passing tlirougli ; and with regard to my other request, that although they cannot give them passports to a port in the Adriatic, they will give them passports to Leghorn, whence they may go to Ancona by water ; this is a very great thing gained. The Prince says he is glad I have been here, and that hereafter any suggestion of mine will be hstened to from him. I went to Count Sedlnitzky, to ask if there would be any diffi- culty about my staying at Verona; he said, none at all, but advised me to apply to their mim'ster, at. Munich, and make use of his name. He says I ought, by all means, to see the prison at Lintz. With regard to my application on behalf of the poor Greeks, he said precisely what Prince Esterhazy had told me, and my heart 270 LIFE AKD CORRESPONDENCE [18£2. expanded witli gratitude in havuig been made the humble instru- ment of obtaining some relief for this poor oppressed people. The Count was very kind and respectful, and we parted excellent friends. Having now done aU. my work here, I went, with a hght heart, to the hotel, sent for the poor Greeks, and gave them the good news, for which they were very thankful. I left fifteen hundred of the Address, &c., in German, under the care of Alexander Schwabe, who promises to circulate them through all Austria; then took leave of Lord Strangford, who stays some days longer, and a httle before three, started with an easy mind, thankful that my journey had been thus far prosperous.'" William Allen pursued his course towards Munich, only stopping to lodge, and for occasional refreshment, except at Lintz, where, according to the recommendation of Count Sedluitzky, he went to see the pi'ison, or house of correction. It is for the whole district of Upper Austria, and Saltzburg, and contained about two hundred prisoners, most of whom were employed. He says — " They are all taught to read, being generally, if not universally, ignorant when they come in. Every thing is extremely neat and clean." He several times mentions the beauty of the country, and on approaching Saltzburg, says — "We have seen nothing of mountain scenery so fine, since we set out ; it is like the Alps in miniature." As they drew near to Munich, he writes — " My mind thoughtful, but calm, though I am approaching this great capital without a single letter of introduction. We drove to the Black Eagle, where we are well accommodated. I took a person to shew me the way to Dr. Ringseis. He seems a man of taste for the arts, and has some beautiful engravings, busts, and cabinets of minerals : he appeared quite rejoiced to meet me, and ]822.] OF \nLLIAM ALLEN. ■• 271 was very kind, going with me to the Baron Gumpenberg, who accompanied us to the old President Rausch, where we met Lang- mire, and some other persons whom I did not know. The President is a sweet-spirited man. I jBud that the persecution of the protestants has so much increased, that not more than five persons, who are not members of the family, are permitted to meet ■for the purposes of worship. This prohibition took place about the time of Heinleth's return from Russia ; before that period there was a congregation of from fifty to sixty. It seems that things are in a very poor way here. The departure of Gossner, for Russia, appears to have been a disadvantage. The poor people now meet in small companies, within the restriction of the pohce. I endeavoured to encourage Langmire. In the evening Dr. Ringseis took me to the minister of finance, Baron Lerchenfeld; he seems to be a clever, thinking, man. I was introduced to his wife and daughters, and staid tea with them; we had much conversation on the subject of the Abohtion of the Slave Trade, and on education ; he seems rather iaclined to have a school on the British system. "We talked of the prison plans, and on the plans for colonies at home ; he is perfectly aware of what has been already done in North Holland. Tenth Month Wth. — Went to the Maison de Force, with a letter of introduction from Dr. Ringseis. This is a large mass of buildings, in some respects, very much upon the plan of the Maison de Porce, at Ghent, but not so perfect. Various works of industry axe carried on. The prisoners are taught to read, and also receive religious instruction in their way. If a murderer does not confess, he is imprisoned for life, but not executed. On the whole, it appears, that the main thing wanting is, a good system of prison discipHne ; but the severity of the pohce in all these countries, checks and keeps down pubhc spirit and Hberal benevolent exertions. We are informed, that the institution of Count Rumford, for the poor, is neglected. We just saw the outside of the building. On our return, we foimd Baron Gumpenberg, who spent some time with me in reHgious conversation to our mutual comfort. In the afternoon, I went to Dr. Ringseis, and had some serious conver- sation with him. He wishes me, by all means, to see the Crown 272 LIFE AND CX)I1RESP0NDENCE [1822. Prince ; and, as he is intimate with him, he will write a letter of introduction. I had to go to Brook Taylor, the British Minister, about my passport. He received me very kindly, and it was weU I went myself, and explained the matter to him, as the Austrian Ambassador refused to sign a passport for Verona, having had general orders to that effect. B. Taylor, however, kindly under- took the whole business; and, in the evening, I received a handsome note from him, with a special passport, as Courier to the Duke of WeUington, and countersigned by the Austrian minister. He said, that this was the only way of getting through the difficulty. 1 went with Bai'on Gumpenberg, to spend some time with President Eausch. We were comforted together, and parted in much love. I afterwards met Dr. Ringseis, and we went together to the Baron Lerchenfeld. There was a mixed company, but I had some interesting conversation with him, and left him a Manual, Reports, &c. Tenth Month Y^tli. — I finally concluded to go by Tegern See, in hopes of seeing the Crown Prince, at least, for a few minutes : and, a httle after nine, we started from Munich. It was past four when we arrived. The situation is beautiful ; somewhat resem- bhng the lakes of Westmoreland. The water is extremely clear ; and, if my mind had been at ease, I should have enjoyed it. The place was in a bustle, from the number of carriages setting off from the palace, and I began to be afraid that I should at last miss the Piince. I, however, wrote a note to him, and sent it by Narolsky, together with the letter from Dr. Ringseis. He was gone out for a ride ; but, on his return, a messenger came to inform me, that the Crown Prince would see me instantly. I accordingly went with him to the palace, and was shown up the great stahcase, and through a grand corridor, to the Princess apartment. He speaks EngHsh well, and received me very kindly, inquu-ed after Stephen, and also, what had brought me on my way to Verona, on which I satisfied him. He talked so much, and so quickly, that I had some difficulty in edging in what I had to say. He commended the zeal of Priends in endeavouring to get the African Slave Trade abohshed. ' But why,' said he, ' do you not interfere in endea- vouring to put an end to the white Slave Trade ? ' He then spoke 1822.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 273 strongly of the atrocities of the Turks, in Scio, and enquired why the English did not rise up against them. I told him the subject had excited strong feelings in our country. I said, as his time was precious, (he being about to set out early the next morning), I would be as brief as possible. I then adverted to several subjects, and it was agreed that I should correspond with him on my return to England. I must write to him respect- ing the restrictions upon the pious people at Munich, with regard to their worship. I was very glad of this opportunity, as it has opened a channel of communication. I returned tx) the inn, satisfied in having done aU that seemed possible in the time, though my mind was not completely reheved. The Prince desired me to remember him to Stephen Grellet. I then went after Counsellor Kobel, to whom Dr. Ringseis had given me a letter, and found him a very agreeable man; he happened to have the direction of the horses, and wrote a note to the post- master, desiring him to supply me at any hour we wished : this proved a great accommodation, as we had been told we coiald not have any until twelve o'clock, and I now concluded to set off at eight. Tenth Month l^th. — Started at half-past eight. I never saw any thing hke the ride tliis afternoon. Mountains, rocks, torrents, narrow defiles, interspersed with cottages, aU in various combina- tions. It is grand indeed. The Tyrolese are a fine looking race of people. The costume of the peasants is singular. The men wear green hats. 14^th. — In one of the stages, the driver told us there was not a Bible to be found in five or six villages ; and another said he had never seen a Bible. We breakfasted at Inspruck, the capital of the Tyrol. As I walked alone up a long ascent, near Schonberg, my mind was turned to the Lord, my soul was raised in prayer and praise, and I was secretly comforted. Faith revived, and I looked forward to Verona as a duty. Our driver does not know how to 'read or write, for, though when a boy, he went to school for two years, he has forgotten all he learnt there, and he says, that this is the case with many adults. VOL. II. T 274 LIFE AND COERESPONDEXCE [1822. The crucifixes by the road side^ through the Tyrol, are extremely numerous, and particularly revolting to the feeKngs. TenthMoiith \^t]i. — On arriving at BrenzoE, we got into difficulty about horses, the imperial train being just before us. I was obhged to submit to have the letter bag fastened on to my carriage, and as horses are so scarce, it is on the whole an advantage. As another carriage from the same inn that we came from was before us, and could get no horses, the person who was in it, stood at our horses^ heads, and refused to let us proceed; the driver said I was a courier ; he said, / ^cas not. I quietly beckoned him to come to the side of the carriage, when I showed him the official character in which the British Minister, at Munich, had placed me, and he immediately gave way. 17^!^. — ^We entered Yerona about three o^ clock, and proceeded to the inn to which we had been recommended. We found that we could be accommodated, and I felt grateful that here again, where we had anticipated considerable difficulty in finding lodgings, there was a place just ready for us ; but the inn is very full. Y^th. — We went, this morning, to find out Sir James Wyhe, but he was not within; we then went to see the ruins of the amphitheatre; only a small part of the exterior wall remains, but the stone seats are very perfect, and seem to have been recently put in complete repair, its form is elliptical, and it is said to be capable of seating twenty-four thousand people. In this place Bonaparte harangued thirty thousand of liis soldiers; he stood upon one of the upper rows and was heard distinctly. I waited, by appointment, on the Duke of Welhngton; he made me sit down ^^ith him, and entered into the subject of the Slave Trade. He began by remarking, that we had not merely to consider what was desirable, but what was practicable ; that if the other Powers made it piracy, how were they to act against France without going to war, that if we attempted what was impracticable we should efiect nothing, and the mischief would go on increasing. He read me a paper, or the rough sketch of one, which he had prepared on the subject, and he wished me to make some memoranda of facts, which I am to search for and send to him. He handed me 1822.J OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 275 a packet from Zachary Macaulay, and gives me free access to himself at all times. In the afternoon, I wrote a note to the Duke with the requisite information. Lord Strangford is here. Tenth Month \^th. — General Macaulay came in; he arrived the evenino" before. I am glad he is come, as it may tend to liberate me the sooner, for when I have done my part with regard to the Slave Trade, and feel reheved in my mind, I can leave the rest to him. He seems an interesting man; he is not able to hve in England, on account of ill health. He tells me, that there are great numbers of pious persons in France, and that the cause of vital religion is gaining ground in Geneva; this is indeed good news. We took a walk together by the Corso, and out at the Mantuan gate, talking over our affairs. The weather is beautiful ; the soil near Verona is very poor. 20//^. — General Macaulay came to read to me the sketch of a paper he had drawn up for the Duke of Welb'ngton, to show the necessity of making the Slave Trade piracy. We had some conver- sation on the subject, and then went by appointment to wait upon the Duke. General Macaulay gave him his paper, which he read very attentively, and then said, that we were altogether mis- taken in the very ground of our application, to have it made piracy, for that the present Congress was not a mere continuation of the Congress of 1815, which consisted of eight Powers, that is, I suppose, of Great Britain, Russia, Austria, Prussia, France, Netherlands, Spain and Portugal, but that the present only consisted of the first five, and could perform no act to bind the last three. That so far from the present Congress interfering with the internal manage- ment of individual states, ' I am here,^ said the Duke, ' as one to prevent such interference.' He had some further conversation on the subject, and I acknowledged, that I now saw plainly that the present Congress could not do more than make it piracy for the Powers that composed it. The Duke said, that he had spoken to the Emperor of Eussia on the subject — that he was with us en- tirely, and ready to agree to any thing, but that he was himself for moderate measures. I stated, that making the Slave Trade piracy, or at least designating it by that name, might, at the same T 2 276 Li'^E AND COREESPONDENCE [1822, time, be accompanied by s^ch regulations as to prevent any incon- veniences ; that even if France would not agree, the four other Powers might declare, that any of their respective subjects, who should engage in it, should thereby, ipso facto, be put out of the protection of the laws of their country, and considered kostes generis kumani. The Duke, however, still stuck to his text, of impracti- cability, and thought, that at least the foundation for such a step should be laid in other measures, by which the Trench should be urged to fulfil their engagements. Upon General Macaulay remarking, that the expectations of the people of England were high, and that he feared they would be greatly disappointed, the Duke said, he was aware that he stood in no enviable situation. After this conversation, wliich lasted a considerable time. General Ma- caulay and I withdrew, and took a walk along the Corso ; and sitting down on the grass, at the ramparts, we consulted upon the present shape of this important business. It seems scarcely pru- dent to push the measure of piracy much farther at present ; there being no hope that Prance would agree to it, or that the other Powers would go so far as to separate themselves from her upon this question. The people of England are, however, competent to have the cjuestion, as it regards their own country, moved in Par- liament. We took a walk in the evening, crossed the bridge, and went in a northerly direction, ascending the hiU by the old wall and fortifi- cations, which extend for miles. We saw a magnificent sun-set. Yerona, with the windings of the Adige at our feet, and an im- mense plain, with the Appenines in the distant horizon. The moon, now five days old, was in a fine crescent, in the south west. My heart, was sad, in reflecting upon the hopeless state of darkness and ignorance, into which this fine country is plunged. General Macaulay came in to say, that he was ordered to leave Verona to-morrow, having been sent for to the Pohce, and his permission to stay withdrawn. T advised him to lose no time in seeing the Duke of WeUington upon this extraordinary procedure. After he was gone, I read several chapters in the Gospel of John, to my nephew Daniel and Narolsky, and my mind was comforted. "W e had a little pause afterwards. 2822.1 OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 277 Tenth Month %\st. — General Macaulay calledj and staid a good while • the Duke has settled his business about the Pohce. <^<^ncl. My mind very low in the night; I long to be gone, and yet do not feel released. General Macaulay says that a poor man, named Tartaro, was put into confinement last Third Month, and he beheves is now in a dungeon, at Naples, for circulating the Holy Scriptures; that, in that country, a gentleman, who was travelling, and known to General Macaulay, was seized, put in prison, and kept there twenty days, but could never learn for what reason; and even the ambassador of his country (the Netherlands), could obtain no information. The gentleman was at length ordered out of the country. I was surprised to find that the protestant reformed clergy, at Lausanne, are so intolerant that they have put a stop to meetings for evening prayer, both there and at Vevay, and have banished a lady, named Greaves, to Geneva, for having such meetings at her house. She is under the surveillance of the Pohce; but at Geneva, they are not so ilhberal as at Lausanne. On the other hand, how- ever, I heard some cheering news, which is, that the Bible is printing at Leghorn, without note or comment, from the text of Martini. 23r^. — T was again very low in the night, but I endeavoured to stay ray mind upon God, and was favoured to feel something of the presence of the Comforter. I felt much for the Emperor of Eussia, and my prayers were put up for him. I walked out after breakfast, and sought a sohtary place where I could pour out my heart to the Lord; I was humbled and contrited, and had reason to believe that my gracious Master was not afar off. I visited, in spirit, my dear children and the Friends in our meeting of Gracechurch Street, now held at Devonsliire House. I prayed to be rightly directed, and that, if consistent with the divine will, way might open for my release from this place. After dinner, as I was going up to Sir James "Wylie's, I thought I heard some person, pretty near, call 'Allen,' but thinking 'it uhhkely that any one should know me, I walked on ; it was, how- ever repeated, and, turning round, I saw the Duke of Wellington, 278 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. dressed quite as a private gentleman. He spoke to me very kindly, and made me walk with him some distance towards the Corso. I told him of my desire to see the Trench minister, and he very kindly offered me an introduction, desiring me to call for it at ten o'clock to-morrow morning. This cheered me a little, and I could but consider it as providential. Took a walk in the evening; the moon was very brilliant, and was beautifully reflected, in silver flashes, from the rapid current of the Adige, as we crossed the bridge. General Macaulay spent most of the evening with us; he wiU, I think, be very useful in distributmg the Italian Scripture Lessons. Sir James Wyhe came in to say, that the Emperor of Eussia would see me at seven o'clock to-morrow evening. Tent/i Month 'i-^th. — I called, by appointment, on the Duke of Wellington, who was very kind, said he had spoken to the Count de Montmorenci about me last evening, and gave me a letter of introduction to him; I accordingly called about two o'clock, Om* conversation was first, respecting hospitals, schools, prisons, &c. I find that he is one of the prison discipline committee, at Paris, and he offered to give me an order to see the prisons, when I should go there. We came then to the main matter, the Slave Trade, and the part that Prance takes in this horrible business. He had httle to say in justification, but candidly acknowledged that something further was wanted. I then went more fully into the subject; the Count looked veiy grave, and seemed to feel what was said. I presented him with Benezet's observations, explanatory of our principles, and some other tracts. His reception of me was altogether very affable and cordial, and, on taking leave, his expres- sions of regard appeared to be not merely complimentary. I was thankful in having this opportuuity to express wdiat had rested on my mind. In the afternoon, I was met by Sir J. Wyhe, who was coming to say that the Emperor was prevented from seeing me to-night, by business with Prince Metternich, but requested me to come the day after to-morrow at the same hour. Wrote a letter to Count Montmorenci, quoting in it several parts of the admirable paper on piracy. 1822.] OF WILLLUI ALLEN. 279 Tenth Month I'iith. — This detention liere requires the exercise of great patience, and my little stock of faith is sometimes put to a severe trial. I had a strengthening time in prayer this morning ; my petitions were put up for guidance and direction. I have surrendered myseK and all that I have into the Lord^s hand. O^ that he may condescend to lead me ! 26^;^. — Went to the Duke of Wellington, and had a very satisfactory audience. The Duke said that he had received in- structions to urge the matter of piracy, and he should certainly do so. It seems that the discussions on this important subject are o-oing on at considerable length. He encourages me to go to him whenever I wish it. Called on Sir James Wyhe. Some of the spring water, used by the Emperor, was brought in for Sir James to examine, and he immediately eiihsted me in the service. We went over to an apothecary^ s, where I found more of the requisite tests than I expected : the water seems very pure. In the evening, according to appointment, I waited on the Emperor ; he received me in the most cordial manner, and made me sit down by him, at a long table, placed in the middle of the room. He began by asking me about my journey, &c. I told him of my having seen the Crown Prince of Bavaiia, and my motives for it, which he approved, remarking more than once, that he had a good heart. I mentioned my concern on finding that the pious people at Munich, who had assembled for the pm-pose of prayer and divine worship, were forbidden to meet in greater numbers than five, beside the family. He said it did look rather severe, but that they had some reason for it ; that LindeU had acted imprudently, and gone too far, attempting to alter their form of religion, &c. I expressed my regret at that general disposition which appeared, at present, among the continental powers, to check inquiry, and told the Emperor of the instance given by General Macaulay, of a poor man confined in a dungeon at Naples, for circulating the Bible. He seemed struck \ntli this, and I believe will enquire into it ; he asked me if I had spoken of it to the Duke of Wellington : I told liim, no, for the person not being a British subject, I did not suppose that the Didcc would 280 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823, feel authorized to interfere. I adverted also to the efCorts to put down the schools in Trance, but the Emperor said that the con- ductors of them had, in many places, been introducing dangerous lessons. We had some farther conversation about the Slave Trade, and I read to him the copy of my letter to the French Minister ; he seemed pleased with it, and said he had given his plenipoten- tiary the fullest instructions, and that he was quite ^\'ith us. We talked freely and pleasantly on several other subjects, and among the rest, on my plans for colonies at home. I showed him how easily they might be established in the Crimea, and that the saleable products might be in oil, silk, &c. ; he considered the subject as of great importance, and seemed quite willing to adopt it as soon as we could find suitable agents to carry it into effect. Seeing the way open, I ventured to relieve my mind with regard to two subjects, which had oppressed me very much when traveUing through Russia : the first was, the general, and almost universal, use of brandy among the poor ; and the second, the corruption tlu'oughout all the departments of goverrunent, arising from the insufficiency of the amount of salaries. With respect to the first, he said it was a subject very near his heart; that he was doing all in his power to diminish the evU, and had already succeeded to a very considerable extentj and that he had put down a great number of the shops where brandy was sold ; he quite relieved me on this point. With regard to the other, he looked very grave, considering it, as indeed it is, a point of great difficulty. He says that the sums which would be required to make the salaries what they ought to be, would be so enor- mous, that he does not know how they could be raised; he, however, hoped to do it by degrees, and for this purpose, he is making retrenchments in different departments. Our conversation upon religious matters was very satisfactory. He again adverted to some of the temptations he had had to struggle with, and how he had been so far favoured to resist, but he felt himself so weak that he could not look far before him ; he could only pray and struggle to get through the present day; 'and in this way,' said he, ' I have so far got on." He hinted at trials and temptations 1822.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 281 in this place, 'but/ said he, * since my interview with you, I have felt strengthened ; God has heard your prayers ; continue to pray for me/ He asked me how long 1 thought I should stay, saying that if I remained a few days, he should like to have a parting opportunity. My mind was covered with a precious degree of divine sweetness from the source of never-failing help, and we parted in much affection. During this interview, I showed the Emperor my certificate ; we were more than an hour and a half together. I then went over and sat some time with Sir J. Wyhe. Tenth Month '^Ith. — First-day. General Macaulay came in and remained with us while we read our chapter; he called again in the evening; also E. Reed. We read some time in the Bible, and this, with serious conversation, occupied great part of the evening. My nund was stayed and comforted with a httle feeling of the Lord's goodness. 28i^A. — General Macaulay and I had a long conference with the Duke of "Wellington; he read to us the despatches which he is about to send off to Ministers in London. I beheve he has a very difficult part to act with regard to Prance, but that he is sincerely with us in wishing for a final and an immediate abohtion. 29//^. — In a solitary walk my mind was turned to the Lord with prayers for guidance and direction. ?>^th. — I lay awake a good deal, and my Divine Master was pleased to grant me a sense of sweet peace, and a distinct Hberation from this scene of labour. It appeared clear to me that I must call on the DukeofWeUington, this morning, and take leave, and, at the same time, offer a hint or two. I left a note for the Crown Prince of Sweden at his inn, then waited on the Duke, and had a most satisfactory interview. I told him that, as General Macaulay was here, and well acquainted with the business relative to the Slave Trade, I did not see that it was necessary for me to remain longer, and I expressed my gratitude to him for the kindness and attention he had shown me since my coming here. I mentioned to him that there were several objects,' on my way home, which it appeared my duty to attend to, and, among the rest, to procure some information respecting the Waldenses, in the valley of Pied- mont, near Turin. He behaved in the kindest manner, wishing 282 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1822. me to do what appeared to me best ; and, with regard ta the WaldenseSj he said that Canning had written to him on the subject, and it would come before Congress; that he would give me a letter to the British Minister, at Turin, the Hon. W. Hill; and that if I procured any information which I thought worth while to communicate, I might send it to him; thus way opened mar- vellously. I expressed my joy that the matter was in his hands. I then stated the strong impression which had been upon my mind, that it was the object and end of some of the Powers in Congress, (having Austria, the King of Sardinia, and the Xing of the two SicHies in view), to put down all inquiry as dangerous — that, under the pretext of secret societies, and the spread of revolutionary principles, they sought to check the circulation of the Scriptures, to suppress the education of the poor, and were doing all in their power, by shackHng the press and stopping out the hght, to bring the dark ages once more over Europe. I related the circumstance of the gentleman who had been ira- prisoned twenty days, at Naples, without being able to learn the cause of it. The Duke said, he would inquire into it, and repro- bated the narrow-minded policy which I had adverted to, sajing, that in fact they injured themselves by it. I was comforted by hear- ing one sentiment which he expressed. '^ We are here,' said he, ' to prevent the great Powers from oppressing the lesser — to jprevent interference! I expressed the satisfaction it gave me to hear it, re- marking to him,thatas they had not interfered to save the poor Greeks from the Turks, upon the same principle, they ought not to inter- fere with Spain ; in tliis he cordially united. In taking leave, I again thanked him, and said, ' May the Lord bless thy endeavours to preserve the peace of Europe." We then parted, I trust, with mutual feehngs of respect. Soon after my return to the inn, he sent me the introductory letter, which he had promised, to the British IVIinister at Turin. " During William Allen's stay at Verona, the Duke of Welling- ton invited him to dinner, in order to meet some of the influ- ential characters, then assembled for the Congress. The kindness of the proposal was gratefully acknowledged, but W. A. begged 1822.] 05- WILLIAM ALLEN. 283 to decline the invitation, observing, that he vras only a humble individual, and did not wish to come forward, except where he had a duty to perform ; and though he felt particularly obliged for the kind permission granted him, to wait upon the Duke whenever it appeared desirable, yet, on this occasion, he believed he should be more in his place to remain rather in the shade. The apology was well received, and the Duke confessed that he might be right. In writing to his daughter, W. Allen says, in reference to the Duke — "I have been with him several times, both at Yienna and Yerona, and he has uniformly treated me with great kindness and attention; indeed, I think that every where, and almost with every body, a place has been given me, and, as Thomas Story said, ' I have left the door wide open after me, for whoever may come next.' " " I went to call on Sir James Wylie, and told him I had taken leave of the Duke of Wellington, and now only waited the Em- peror's pleasure, if he wished to see me again. Examined the water of the Adige, with Sir James ; it is surprisingly pure, con- taining only a slight trace of sulphuric acid, but no muriatic salts. Received a note from Oscar, the Crown Prince of Sweden, to say he should be glad to see me at six o'clock ; before I went to him. Sir James Wylie came in, to say that the Emperor had fixed to see me at seven o'clock to-morrow evening. Thus all ray business here is winding up, and my heart is filled with thankfulness to my great and good Master. At the time appointed, I went to the Prince. He is a fine young man, and received me in a very kind and sociable manner; he seems to be aware of my object in travelling. His chasseur re- cognised me as having been at Rosenthal, with S. Grellet, We conversed about the Slave Trade, Prisons, and other subjects, and I gave him Eriends' Address to the Inhabitants of Europe, Pen- sees, &c. We had some conversation about colonies at home, particularly as applicable to Norway, and I am to send him my project through the Swedish Ambassador, in London, when it is 284 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE [1822. perfected ; lie seems heartily with us in good things. This inter- view was like opening the door afresh'; he is the pupil of Ber- zehus. After this satisfactory visits the evening being fine, and bright moonlight, T went over the bridge, and out at the gate that leads to our favourite walk. The shadows on the ruins of the old walls, and on the round towers, were very fine. Tenth Month Z\st. — I went to the police to see after the passport, and was detained a good while ; they had just been re- marking that it was not vised by our Minister, when the Duke of Wellington and Prince Mettemich came in ; the Duke was very friendly and kind, and signed it himself. There was a great bustle in Verona this afternoon, by the arrival of the King of Sardinia. In the evening I went to Sir James Wylie's; he sent over to let the Emperor know I was come, and soon afterwards I was sent for. The dear Emperor received me most cordially, and again asked me to take tea with him ; his httle hand beU has a watch attached to it ; when tea was brought in he remembered that I did not take sugar. We now had some most interesting conver- sation in perfect confidence. I find that on the subject of the Slave Trade, the Emperor of Austria and the King of Prussia are with us, but their ministers are cool, and, as the Emperor remarked, the Erench ministers would not fail to take advantage of that. He said that he had given his own minister most positive orders to urge the business, and remarked, that if all stood firm, as they ought to do, he did not see why they should not carry it, intimating that Erauce must give way. I mentioned the subject of the persecution of the Waldenses, the Duke of Wellington having informed me that he had received instructions from Canning, to remonstrate with the King of Sardinia. The Emperor said it was quite new to him, but assured me that he would attend to it. I adverted again to the subject of hberty of conscience in matters of rehgion, which we had discoursed upon in oiu: last interview, when I mentioned the case of the pious people at Munich. He tux-ned to a Erench Testament on the table, and pointed to that text in I. Coriathiaus, chap, xiv, v. 33, ' Eor God is not the author of confusion, but of peace,' &c. He stiU seemed to think, that if people attacked the rehgion of a 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 285 country, the magistrates would naturally take tlie matter up. I felt it was very tender ground, but that it was my place to go into it rather at length. I remarked to the Emperor, that when we opened the sacred volume, and saw what the christian rehgion was, as described there in its primitive puiity, we must be sensible how much it had become depraved and corrupted in subsequent ages, and if it were to be held unlawful to deviate from the rehgion of the state, it would be impossible for the church to rise out of its degraded situation, and consequently all reform would be prevented ; but that the Great Head of his church might raise up very humble instruments to bear testimony to the truth, in its primitive purity, and therefore great tenderness should always be shown towards those who appeared to be actuated by principle in dissenting from any rehgion estabhshed by law. The Emperor then put the query to me, how we should act in our Society, if any of our members attacked our principles, or deviated from them? I told him this was coming to the point, and that such tilings had occun'ed amongst us ; that, in the fii'st place, we laboured, in the spirit of love, to reclaim such, and exercised much forbearance, but that if they continued to show that they were really not in principle with us, we disowned them as members of our Religious Society. We got through this point very agreeably, and the Emperor seemed satisfied. I then reverted to the subject upon which we had pre\aously been speaking, \iz., the intolerant system at present prevaihng on the continent — putting down schools in France — multiplying restric- tions, &c., and we partly went over some of the same ground again. I said, that while I abhorred infidel principles, and deplored the spreading of them, I coidd see that designing men, whose object was to keep mankind in ignorance, and try to stop out light, were making an excuse of these things to prevent the circulation of the Scriptures, and the estabhshment of schools. I expressed a hope, that he would excuse me if I endeavoured to reheve my mind of what I had for some time past felt as a burden, and that he would permit me to speak to him freely. He said, ' Certainly; I not only respect you, but I love you from the bottom of my heart." I then told him how anxious I felt that he might be preserved from committing himself with others, whose views and principles were not so pme as his own ; that I wished him to keep 286 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. WmseK as independent as possible, for that others would be glad to make use of his name and character, to forward their views. He took the hint exceedingly well, but said, that he always weighed things in his own mind, and acted according to the best of his judgment. I encouraged liim to seek after, and wait for that which could alone rightly direct him, stating, that the Lord would never fail those whose trust and dependence were wholly upon Him. The above is only a small part of what passed between us ; a precious feehng accom- panied us throughout, and at length conversation ceased; the Emperor proposed our prajing together; I said, if he pleased we would sit in silence, when he rephed that was what he wished. We then had a precious tender time of silent waiting upon the Lord, and were favoured with a sweet holy feehng : at length, I felt it right to kneel down and offer up thanksgiving, and to supphcate for continued preservation. The Emperor knelt by me. The power of the Holy Spirit accompanied the words. We remained a minute or two afterwards on our knees, and then resumed our seats. I saw there was something farther on his mind, and after we had been a little time silent, he said, ' Now I want you to teU me a httle how you do in silent worship, for I find, that without some words, or sometliing to fix my mind upon, I am apt to wander ; I find it difficult to fix my thoughts, — liow is it with you V I told him that was the very thing which I often had to struggle with, and that sometimes, when I have been enabled to keep up the watch, and endeavoured to bring back my thoughts, when they had wandered, and that repeatedly, for an hour to- gether, without feehng much, if any, divine consolation at the time, I have afterwards been comforted, and given to beheve that this effort, and mental struggle, has been acceptable in the divine sight. That in our silent approaches, we should, in great simphcity, pour out our souls to our Father, who sees in secret, and patiently wait for what he may be pleased to administer ; and we should not be discouraged if the times of refresliing did not always come when we desired them most. We had much more conversation of tliis kind, with wliich the Emperor expressed himself much gratified, saving, ' This is just what I wanted.' We spoke also of the necessity of mental prayer, and how it might be performed even 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 287 when we were in the discharge of our outward duties. He said, that it was his constant practice, and he did not know what he should do without it. He pointed to a great pile of papers, which, not- withstanding the interruptions he has here, must be got through. He talked to me about Daniel Wheeler, and said, that he was much satisfied with him ; that he went to see him sometimes, but that liis occupations would not allow him to do it so often as he wished. It was now between nine and ten o'clock, but we seemed loth to part. Wlien I rose, he embraced and kissed me three times, saying, ' Eemember me to your family, — I should Like to know them. Ah!' said he, 'when and where shall we meet again !' Thus ended this remarkable interview ; I believe we shall both, as long as we live, recur with comfort to the feelings with which we were favoured in it. On leaving the palace, I went over to Sir J. Wyhe's lodgings ; he regretted my going very much, and accompanied me to the inn, where he was a good deal affected on taking leave. My work at Verona seems now done, except seeing General Macaulay once more. I wrote a note to him to be shown to the Duke of Wellington, stating that if there was any coolness in Austria and Prussia on the Slave Trade question, it lay not with the Emperor of Austria, or the King of Prussia, but with their ministers." CHAPTER XYIII. 1822. — Departure from Verona — Turin— Visit to the Waldenses — Letter to the Emperor of Russia — Journey to Geneva — Sundry engagements there and at Lausanne, Vevay, Fribourg, Berne, Zurich, St. Gallen, Tubingen, Stuttgard, Bergzabem, and Strasburg — ^Visit to Pastor Oberlin — Journey to Paris — Return Home. "Eleventh Month 1st, 1822. — Started from Verona, after an early interview with General Macaulay ; I was glad to get away, but if the General had not come as he did, I must have remained. As we approach the Lago di Garda, the views are very fine ; the water in places is a beautiful sky blue, and the meadows as we pass along are luxuriant in consequence of the system of irrigation. We lodged at Brescia, a very large place, containing forty thousand inhabitants; took a walk in the evening; it really makes one's heart ache to see the state of these countries; the people are allowed to indulge in all sorts of dissipation ; there are plays, spectacles, &c., on the first day of the week, and indeed the opera is better served on that evening than on any other ; absolution is readily procurable for sins, and penance may be compounded for by money. Thus the priests nurse the people in their sins, and at the same time labour to keep them in ignorance, and to shut out all hght and knowledge from them. 2,nd. — In order to ascertain our rate of travelling, I made Narolsky tie a piece of paper on one of the spokes of the hind wheel on my side; I then measured the circumference of the wheel with a string, and on calculating how many revolutions it makes in a minute, find that the average is from six and a haK to nearly eight miles an hour. 2,rd. — My mind was contrited as I rode along ; I read the last chapter of Revelations, 'And he shewed me a pure river of water of hfe,' &c. The leaves of the tree of life were for the healing of 1822.] LIFE AJ^D CORRESPONDENCE, &C. 289 the nations. Alas ! how much wanted in these countries ; I com- ' pared the tree of hfe to the christian dispensation, and the pure river, to the divine influence. At Buffalora, the last post in Austrian Italy, we passed the Ticino over a wooden bridge, and entered the territories of the Kinsr of Sardinia. IVe were soon in a countrv altogether different from that at the other side of BuflFalora ; there are no vines, but m.arshes and willows. Novara, the first post, is a disagreeable populous place ; this is a dull, dull country, indeed ! Lodged at VerceUi. I am heavy-hearted. Meventh Month ^th. — There are eighteen thousand inhabitants here, but no schools for the poor ; the poor children cannot read, so they must be brought up in a state of semi-barbarism. 0, what a dark country this is ! I feel exceedingly low and poor, and discouraged. We started about seven. My mind has been deeply impressed, with considerations on the transitory nature of all things here below, and the approach of the final close, and earnestly have I desired to seek after a still deeper interest in the Saviour. Lord Jesus ! thy poor tried servant has none to trust to but thee ! To-day we have again come to vineyards, for the first time in Sardinia. The country is improving ; we reached Turin before three o'clock, and are very comfortably accommodated at the Hotel de Londres, I called to deliver my letter to the British minister, WilHam Hill, but he was out ; I afterwards saw his secretary, who said he had much company, and he was not sure whether he could be seen that evening, and to-morrow he was going out shooting. I came back to the inn, wrote a note enclosing the Duke of Wellington's letter, and begging only five minutes tliis evening; I took it myself, but he was not returned. About six o'clock, however, he sent an answer, saying he had no time this evening till after ten o'clock. I then wrote, begging liim to fk a time to-morrow, but the answer was, that he could see nobody till the day after to-morrow, except I could call after ten this evening, to which I assented, being unwilling to lose time. I spent the evening in my chamber alone, under no small discouragement ; my. VOL. II. TJ £90 LIFE AND COEHESPONDENCE [1822. prayers were put up for support and assistance to the only Source of saving help. About ten o'clock, I took Narolsky with me, and went back to the British minister's. He resides in the house which belonged to Prince Carignan, and was confiscated last year, on account of the attempt at revolution. It appeared, by two or three hats, that all the company was not gone ; I sent in my card, and in about five minutes the minister came to me. He is a man of very pleasing manners, and I instantly perceived that way was made for me with him. He said, that with regard to the Vaudois, he had obtained much information, and had written his despatches to the Duke of "Wellington, and he wished that I had been then going to Verona, instead of returning from it. He informed me, that he had received instructions from G. Canning, to report to the Duke the actual state of the Waldenses ; said he was very glad I was come, and encouraged me to go to the valleys, observing that he had never had time to visit them himself. He invited me to dine with him to-morrow, but I excused myself. He says he has made an engagement to go out the fore part of the day, but on fourth day, at twelve o'clock, he wished to see me. He said Lord Carnarvon was in the next room, and wished to introduce me to him, but I begged to be excused. It was then agreed that his secretary should intro- duce me, to-morrow, to one of the Waldenses. We had much talk in a few minutes, and my mind was completely reheved. These poor people have been used very hardly by the present King; they were protected under Bonaparte's government. I returned to my inn, thankful that way is beginning to open. Eleventh Month hth. — A fine morning. Went to the Post office, and found a letter from dear Robert Eorster, expressive o much affection and near sympathy. I then went to the secretary and had much conversation with him about the Vaudois. I fin( they amount to eighteen or nineteen tho'usand ; there are thirtee: parishes. The secretary is a German Lutheran, and he speak Enghsh very weU. He went with me to the bankers, Erere Aubert, Eils & Co., and one of them gave me a letter of introdu( tion to Paul Bert, Pasteur, La Tour. I quite conclude to go t Pignerol, to-morrow, and get on from thence, as well as I cai to La Tour. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 291 In the evening, I felt low, and read in the Bible in my chamber alone ; I opened upon the 27th Psalm, which comforted me. Eleventh Month Qth. — ^I lay awake a good deal in the night, and was much engaged in prayer. O, how I long for more of the divine unction ! I feel that I am nothing of myself. Daniel and I left Turin for Pignerol, a httle before eight, and arrived between eleven and twelve. Scarcely any of the "Waldenses hve here, and we then proceeded to La Torre, or La Tour. We had charming prospects, — vineyards, meadows, and the magnificent Alps, reflecting the sunbeams from their snowy tops, the high conical point of Mount Viso towers above all the rest. About two o'clock, we entered the town of La Tour. I went with my letter to Paul Bert, Pasteur, and had a cordial reception from him and his wife ; she seems a very agreeable woman. 7^;^. — As I lay awake early in the night, I longed that way might open for some rehgious communication with these poor people. The Pastor informed me last evening, that he had appointed to meet some of the peasants this morning, and I engaged to breakfast with him, and accompany him." The desire thus expressed, was accomplished to the relief of William Allen's mind, and he also visited several of them in their houses. In describing their circumstances, and mode of living, he says — " I called upon a widow, whose occupation was that of weaving coarse hnen cloth ; the loom occupied almost half of her habitation, and in one corner was something which had the appearance of a bed; the apartment was very gloomy, the principal hght coming in at the door, and I found, that by aU her exertions, she could only earn a sum equal to about twopence or threepence per day. We went up the hills, to visit one or two of the elders of the congre- gation : they Hve in a very homely style, and when we entered, were at supper upon boiled chesnuts; they received us very hospitably, and we sat down with them, and partook of their humble fare, with which they seemed quite contented. They bum an oil, which they obtain by pressing walnuts, and their lamps very much resemble, in shape, those used by the Romans. Though TJ 2 592 LIFE AND CORRESPONDBNCE [1822. the Elder is one of the principal men among them, next to the Pastor, the only access to his upper rooms was by means of a ladder. The stable, particularly in winter, is the general rendez- vous of the family, who meet there in the evenings, together with the domestic animals. 1 saw a complete specimen of this : two or three cows were lying down, a woman was spinning, and the rest of the family sitting upon a Htter, composed of the leaves of trees, and of Indian corn. Here, in the long winter evenings, they read the Scriptures, and books of piety, and also, especially on first-day, sing psahns. In this stable they perform aU the work which can be done in such a situation, but I think they might be taught a better method. In the countenances of many of these poor people, there is an expression of innocence, of simphcity, and of sweetness, which forms a most striking contrast to that of their Roman Cathohc neighbours, in whom the effects of ignorance are shown in the very features." The following day, William Allen returned to Tui'in, and says — " A.t St. Jean, on my way here, two gentlemen were waiting to speak to me : they proved to be the Pastor of St. Jean, and the ' Procureur de I'Eghse.' I felt love towards them, whilst they were conversing with me, and on parting, said, as I held the minister by the hand — ' J^aime tous ceux qui aiment notre Seigneur Jesus Christ.' He was affected to tears, and Narolsky said, when we were gone, he quite wept. Pastor Bert left with me, in writing, some statements relative to the situation of the Vaudois, J. J. Vertu has also given me some documents, and, this morning, I have had much conversation with the Enghsh Minister, on subjects connected with these poor people ; he encourages me to write to Verona. I afterwards called on the brother of J. J. Vertu; he has a nice family, and his eldest son is a tender spirited, fine young man. I find that Dominic Andre, of Paris, is known to them, and that they can make a good use of the Itahan Scripture Lessons. They invited me to tea, and I thought it best to go ; the conversation was turned on rehgious subjects, which seemed to be particularly acceptable to some of the company. Vertu's 1322,] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. '-. 2913 wife wishes that some pious, well-disposed English femily, would go and reside in the valleys for a time. There is, indeed, a large field for usefulness there. It hes heavily upon my mind, to write an account of what I have seen in the valley of La Tour, to the Emperor of Russia, and to have the substance of it also sent to the Duke of "WeUington, but time presses. Eleventh Month 'dth. — Rose at six ; as 1 lay awake in the night my course appeared clear, viz., in the first place to write to the Emperor ; — in the next place, to have the substance of my journal copied out, and, together with the documents, given to the British Minister here, and induce him to write to the Duke; as the subject is of so much importance to the poor Waldenses, not an hour should be lost, lest the time be past for the consideration of the subject in Congress, and therefore a special courier should be sent. This being settled in my mind, I immediately began a letter to the Emperor." As Wilham Allen was permitted to be the instrument of pro- curing very important privileges for this oppressed and inter- esting people, we insert a detailed aecount of their position thus given in the letter alluded to : — ~, " Turin, 9ik of Eleventh Month, (November,) 1822. " May it please the Empeuor, "I now avail myself of the privilege thou wert pleased to grant me, of addressing thee by letter, when anything occurred which might appear of sufficient importance ; and I beg leave to do it, most earnestly, on behalf of eighteen thousand poor Pro- testants, called Vaudois or Waldenses, subjects of the King of Sardinia, who, for many centuries past, have been established in the valleys among the mountains, about thirty or forty Enghsh miles south-west of Turin, and not far from Pignerol. The Emperor may remember, that, when I was at Yerona, I took the hberty to sohcit his attention to the case of this poor persecuted company of peasants, who, in former times, have been massacred 294) LIFE AISTD CORRESPONDENCE [1822. and pillaged without mercy, and yet the Lord has hitherto pre- vented their enemies from utterly rooting them out. They have, in a remarkable manner, shown themselves good and loyal subjects of the governments which have been placed over them, notwith- standing the oppression which they have suffered, and are now actually suffering, showing an example of Christian meekness and submission, but rarely equalled. So long ago, as about the year 1650, their sufferings excited the sympathy of the-Enghsh govern- ment, which allowed them a small subsidy, which subsidy was paid up to the time of the French Revolution, when, they being admitted to equal privileges with other subjects, it was no longer needed. The Dutch people also manifest a feeling for them, by allowing a sum of money for the support of a teacher. On my arrival at Turin, I took the letter of introduction wliich the Duke of Wellington was so kind as to give me, to the British Minister here, the Hon. "William Hill, who, I was glad to find zealously engaged in the cause of these poor people, and who, since my arrival, has forwarded to the Duke of Wellington, the important information which he has procured respecting them. It appeared to be my duty to pay a visit to some of these inliabitants of the valleys, and accordingly, having procured a letter of introduction to Paul Bert, the minister or pastor of the valley of La Tour, I set off on the 6th instant, and beg leave to lay before the Emperor a brief sketch of the state in which I found them. The great bulk of them are very poor ; many are proprietors of small pieces of ground which they cultivate in corn and potatoes, upon which latter many of them almost wholly hve. Chesnuts also constitute a considerable article of their food. I visited their place of worsliip, which is at a considerable dis- tance from La Tour, because the Eoman Cathohcs would not suffer them to have one there, though three-fourths of the inhabitants are Protestants, Their Eglise, or Temple, is a plain building, capable of holding several hundred persons. The men axe arranged on one side, and the women on the other. There is a reading desk, with a large folio Bible of Ostervald, and above this is the pulpit. They used 2322.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 295 to hold meetings in the town, for prayer and religious worship, in the middle of the week, but, for about a year past, this has been forbidden. While they were under the Trench government, they had equal privileges with the Eoman Cathohcs, but as soon as the present King of Sardinia resumed his power, he began, with as much expedition as the nature of the case would admit, to bring things back to the dismal state imwliich they were before, A few days after his accession, he revived the old persecuting edicts, and they now fear, doubtless with great reason, that the property, which they had been permitted to purchase during the cessation of per- secution, is in jeopaidy. The next day, the Pastor, being about to make his annual visitation to a company of the poor peasants, in the mountains, permitted me to accompany him. One of the Waldenses, who could speak Enghsh, went with us. We found a plain, simple- hearted people assembled, and I concluded to join them, while they went through their usual religious exercises, and then, if I felt it my duty to do so, to ask leave of the Pastor to address them. They all understand Prench, though they speak a sort of patois among themselves. The countenances of several of these poor people indicated religious sensibihty; when the meeting was settled, the Pastor desired a young man to read in the Prench Testament, and he accordingly read three or four chapters ; the Pastor then made a pretty long prayer, and afterwards asked them some questions, among which was, whether they were furnished with Bibles; it appeared that many were not, though they generally had Testaments. The Pastor asked one of the lads, what tempta- tion was ? He replied, ' The occasion or opportunity of sinning.' The Pastor then pointed out our o^vn weaknesses, and where we might apply for strength, not our own, to resist effectually, stating, that considering what poor weak creatures we are, we should always, if possible, fly from temptation when it presents ; after which, he was again engaged in prayer, and recited the Lord's Prayer, and the Creed. When this was done, they sung, in chorus, a few verses of the Psalms, and then, after a short benediction, he dismissed them. At tliis moment, I asked permission to express what was 296 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. ■npon my mind : it was readily given, and, beginning to address tliem in their own language, I found, that with a sense of divine sweetness and love, the words came in French, and I went on almost as fluently as in English, to the complete rehef of my mind. The people seemed affected, and the Pastor and his friend told me afterwards, that every thing was perfectly understood. Thus our gracious Lord helps his poor feeble servants, when they are humbly and sincerely engaged to endeavour to do his will. After tliis, T felt it right to kneel down, and supplicate for them in English; the Pastor knelt by me. When the meeting was over, several of the peasants, and some of the young men, cordially took me by the hand, and the Pastor, in particular, expressed his satisfaction. We had then much conversation respecting the persecution, and the want of protection in which they live. In law proceedings, I am informed that it is usual for the judge to ask, whether the pleader or chent is a Protestaut or Cathohc, and the matter is managed accordingly. I saw the school-room, which is capable of containing from one hundi'ed to two hundred children. The school has existed for two years, and is manitaiued by a worthy Protestant family at Turin, Preres Aubert, Eils & Co., bankers. The master showed me some very good specimens of the children's writing; the number in attendance varies from sixty to one hundred and twenty, according to the season of the year, the fullest attendance being in the winter. The school was taught upon the British system of mutual instruction, until last year, when there was a royal edict to put down all schools on this plan, and in conformity thereto, they were obliged to return to the common method. The humble manner in which they received this order, may be seen by the docimaent herewith inclosed. All the children of the Protes- tants in tliis part, who are of a suitable age, are taught to read and write, but among their Catholic neighbours, not more than one in ten, on an average, can read. Even the Cathohc schoolmaster, at La Tour, can scarcely read, and the consequence of this disgraceful state of ignorance is, that they are strangers to aU kind and hberal feehng, and nourish a violent hatred of the Protestants, wliom they are taught by their priests to consider, and to call, 'Enfans du Diahk,' and to regard as sure of everlasting perdition. A 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 297 striking instance of the consequences of this superstition occurred no longer ago than last first-day, (Sunday). The brother of James Vertu, a respectable Protestant gentleman, had purchased two estates, and was to take possession of them on the 11th instant, but because he was a Protestant who had made the purchase, the Boman Catholics threatened and vowed vengeance, and all the pro- perty belonging to them having been previously removed, at four o'clock, on last first-day (Sunday) afternoon, fire was set to one of the farms, which consumed the house, straw ricks, &c., and was burning the morning before I was at the valley. Remedy, in cases of great oppression, is here almost hopeless, because the government will receive nothing that does not come through the regular channel, which is through the constable and judge of the place, and these are almost always their bitter enemies. Since the year 1815, they have not been efficiently protected, but have merely been suffered to exist. In consequence of an old edict, forbidding more than six per- sons to attend at the faneral of a Protestant, the judge, in the year 1815, when persecution was revived, actually stopped the funeral procession of a Protestant, urging the old law ; the com- pany, however, persisted in paying this last tribute of respect to their departed friend.'' After some information respecting the taxes, William Allen continues — " The principal tax is that upon land, which amounts to one- seventh part of the rent in these parts, but the Cathohcs in Pied- mont do not pay more than a twentieth part of this, and with respect to the valuation, the Protestants are entirely at the mercy of their Catholic assessors, who are sometimes most ignorant and ilhterate men. There is what is called the 'tiers de grace,' that is, a deduction of one third of the tax in favour of Renegadoes (those who have apostatized from Protestanism) and of Roman Catholics. The Catholic commune of Lucerne, which is close by the Pro- testant commune of La Tour, pays only two thirds of what the Protestants pay. 298 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [182 2. In the Protestant communes they are ruled by Catholics^ and these are sometimes so scarce that persons who could not read or write have been put into important offices for which they are utterly inadequate. Disqualifications are even carried to this extent, that a person known to be a Protestant, is refused admit- tance into an hospital when sick, unless he will consent to change his rehgion. The Protestants have asked permission to erect an hospital, and though it is long since they made this request, and plans, &c., have been required, they are not yet allowed to proceed in the work. They are governed, in ecclesiastical matters, by a consistory or synod, consisting of the thirteen pastors of their thirteen parishes, and a deputation of laymen; but an interidant, a Cathohc appointed by the government, must always be present at the sittings, though he is to be silent. They are not permitted to bmld any walls round their burjdng grounds, in that part of the country which they purchased when under the dominion of France, and having, during that period, erected a place of worship in the parish of St. Jean, within sight of a Catholic chapel, it was, by order of the present government, shut up; but strong apphcations having been made, leave was granted to open it again, upon condition that the Protestants, at their own expense, should build before it and keep in repair, a high fence or screen, in order that the Cathohcs might not be disgusted with the sight of their Protestant brethren going in and out of their place of worship. I saw tliis monument of intolerance in my way back to this place. At La Tour, is a Cathohc hospice, into which children of Pro- testants have been enticed and brought up as Cathohcs; when once within these walls their parents cannot get at them, Pro- testants are bribed with money to become Catholics; I saw one myself, who had become tax-gatherer of the district. In my recent jom'ney through Austria, the Tyrol, and Italy, all my views on the subject of the education of the poor have been confirmed. I see plauily that superstition and intolerance are the oH'spring of ignorance, and I grieve to see that the enemy to the happiness of mankind, is but too successfid in these countries in 1822.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. " 299 furnisliing plausible reasons for perpetuating that state of darkness and ignorance into which these beautiful regions are plunged. An Enghsh gentleman, who travelled among theWaldenses about the year 1821, published the result of his inquiries, a copy of which I beg leave to present ; I find that all the main facts are correct. I purpose to set off this afternoon to Suza, on my way to Geneva. My prayers shall continue to be put up from time to time, as I may be enabled, for thee, my dear friend. That our merciful Saviour may have thee under his special notice and protection, is the ardent desire of thy very respectful and affec- tionate friend, William Allen." "When the letter was finished, I sent for J. D. P. Vertu, who offered his eldest son, the nice young man before mentioned, to go to Yerona. I then went to the British minister, William HiU, and had a long conference with him. I thought it right to let him read my letter to the Emperor, which he did, and said, ' Nothing could be better.'' He agreed vrith me that it was quite worth while to send a special courier to Verona, and I introduced young Yertu to him. I wrote to Sir J. Wylie and General Macaulay, and enclosed in the packet for the Emperor, Lowther^s account of his. visit to the Waldenses. All this took a good deal of time, but I feel much peace in having got through the work, and about half-past two, started from Turin with' a thankful heart. A door is now opened for communication between Eriends and the Waldenses." WiUiam Allen and his nephew proceeded, by the pass of Mount Cenis, to Geneva. Before they reached Aiguebelle, he mentions seeing a great number of persons returning from the fair, and says — " The greater part of the women and girls whom we meet have goitres, and many of the men. My spirits have been very low to- day, but the Lord has been near to help, and I found some rehef in prayer." ^^* 300 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822 He often records his grateful sense of the mercies of God, and his desire that faith and patience might hold out to the end. On approaching Geneva, he writes — • " In riding along, recollections of ray beloved Charlotte, and of the afflictions I endured, and still endure, in the loss of her, — my lonely journey over the mountains of Jura, and the divine support with which dear Cornehus and I were favoured, — all rushed upon my mind, and I was greatly affected. We passed two stones, erected to mark the boundaries of the Swiss Eepubhc and the Kingdom of Sardinia, and soon afterwards drove to Dejean's, at Secheron. In the evening we called on Professor Pictet, and were kindly received. We afterwards went up to his daughter, M. A. Yernet, and met with a most cordial welcome; she is in aifiiction on account of the lUness of some of her children, but we found her in the same sweet pious state of mind as usual. I understand that Thomas Shillitoe was here about eight days ago, and is gone to Congenies. " EleventJi Month Y^tli. — Engaged in remodelling, and writing out my plan of colonies at home, for Professor Pictet, who wishes for it. We went out to dinner, and were most kindly received, but my mind was under much concern, from a fear that the Master was not there. Though there were very worthy persons in the company, they are not deep enough in religion. In the evening, we went to call on Pastor Mouhnie, who seemed very glad to see me, and we had a nice time together, by his fireside ; he was very sweet and eheerful, but he seems to fear that the little number of pious persons does not increase. I inquired after some serious people whom Stephen GreUet and I met here, and he imme- diately went to call two of them, who hve in the same house. There was something about them, which proved that they had been with Jesus — a sweetness, and a degree of holy feeling, to wliieh the people of the world are utter strangers. We had some dehghtful conversation on things relating to "the letter country. He recollected the httle meeting which Stephen GreUet and I had in that very room, and, pointing to the place where I sat, reminded me that there I uttered these words — 'Ne 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 301 craics point, petit troupeau, car il a plu h votre Pere de vous donner le royaume.'' — Luke xii. 32. In the course of the conver- sation, T told him that, before my departure from Geneva, I wished to have a petit reunion of his pious friends ; he desired me to fix the time, adding, 'eije battrai le caisse.' Eleventh Month Ibth. — My mind was turned to my Lord and Master, in fervent prayer for direction and support. I feel that I am nothing when left to myself. Charles Yemet called, and I went with him and Pastor Meunier, to visit the prison. Aubanel, the pious gaoler, is still there. I had some further conversation with Professor Pictet, about my plan for colonies at home ; he says that both he and his son Yemet like it much ; we agree that it shall be immediately translated into French, and pubhshed in the BibHotheque Universelle. I went to see the observatory, which is under the care of Gaultier, Pils, and then called on Gaultier the father, a pious old man, very much confined to the house by indisposition, but in a sweet frame of mind. Here I met the Baron de Stael, who was very desirous that I should dine with him at Copet, which I readily consented to do. The Duke and Duchess de Broglie are now there. The Duchess is piously disposed, and all of them are increasingly serious. I had some religious conversation with Gaultier and his son ; the old man much wishes that an edition of my tracts should be printed here. ■ I took D. B. H. with me to Copet, which is seven or eight miles from Geneva, on the Lausanne road. We passed my late friend Dr. Marcet^s estate, where we stopped for a few minutes. We were kindly received by all the party at Copet, and I spent a very interestina: evening;. The conversation was almost entirelv on rehgious subjects. The Duke seemed interested, but did not say much; his wife, the daughter of the celebrated Madame de Stael, is a sensible agreeable person ; she was very desirous of information on the subject of the principles of Priends, and, I beheve, was gratified. There was an elderly lady present, called Madame IN^eckar, who was very deaf; the Duchess was anxious to make her hear, and I was surprised at the accuracy with which she, from time to time, repeated to her what I had said ; this lady is a very 30a LITE AJ^D COERESPONDENCE [1822. sedate, serious person : in conversing on tlie subject of the influence of the Holy Spirit on the mind, I said that, as we beheved that all Scripture was given by inspiration of God, so we beHeved that a measure of the very same Spirit with which the writers of the Scriptures were favoured, was essentially necessary for us, and indeed, it was tliis which prepared our minds to profit by them. I quoted the text, *' K any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his/ to this they all assented. I said that, although the doctrine laid down in the Bible was exceedingly clear, yet something further was necessary to enable us to apply it to our ^particular state, and to enable us to come up to the pattern there given; that it was also needful to strengthen us to perform the divine wiU, and to resist temptation. T remarked, that with respect to my own case, the Scriptures could not inform me whether it was my duty to go to one particular place or another, but I beheved that, if I were humbly attentive to the teaching of the Spirit of truth, in my own mind, this would be made sufficiently clear to me. ' Then,' said the Duchess, ' how are we to distinguish between the divine influence, and the working of our own imagi- nations?' I acknowledged that this was the point of difficulty, but, if we were sufficiently resigned to do the will of God, and engaged to seek by fervent prayer to know it, such an evidence would be granted, as could leave us no doubt. I further stated that the rule laid down by the Saviour himseK, was sufficient to try the conduct of those who professed to be guided by the Holy Spirit — namely, ' their fruits,' showing what were the fruits of the Spirit ; and I said, if any one could prove that our conduct, doctrine, or principles, was contrary to Scripture ia its fair construction, we must acknowledge ourselves to be under a delusion. In all this they fully united. Much more passed relative to our discipline, &c., and, on the whole, it was a most sarisfactory evening. They said, that they were going to Paris on second day, and very much wished that I would visit them in passing through. I left with them, ' Brief Remarks,' Benezet's ' Observations,' and some other small works, and felt thankful that way had opened for this opportunity. 1832.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 303 . Eleventh Month \&th. — Called on Csesar Malan. He received me very kindly^ and I gave him Barcla/s ' Apology/ and Penn's ' No Cross, No Crown/ both which he gladly accepted. He is a strong Calvinist ; but, at Geneva, the upper ranks are generally bmlt up in a strict morality, and the pride of science and talent. The ruhng clergy are, also, strong advocates of reason, and have reasoned themselves into Socinianism. He has separated from them, and built a neat plain chapel, capable of holding eight hundred persons. There is a great movement in all this country. The Lord seems to have begun a work in many hearts ; but Satan rages, and is doing all he can to prevent it. C. M. told us of some extraordinary cases of conversion. Charles Vemet, Daniel, and I, went out to dine at De la Eive's. "We called at Vernefs country house, at Carrouge, to see his school, upon FeUenberg's plan, for training lads as agriculturists. There are nineteen of them. The master, who was brought up under the good Verlet, shewed a reUgious care over the minds of the children, and a desire for their good conduct and advancement in piety, which gladdened my heart. They are not only taught to cultivate the land, but are instructed in carpentering, &c. "We were kindly received by De la Eive and his wife, and their two sons. Sismondi, and Dumont, were also of the party, and we had a very pleasant visit. The opportunity was, I trust, a useful one, though not of so rehgious a character as that at Copet. Sismondi engaged us to call upon him on our way to Geneva, and we accordingly stopped at Chene, where he resides, and were persuaded to stay tea. His wife is an Enghshwoman; and she and two other ladies were very glad to see us. Here I had much useful conversation : I gave Sismondi and Dumont each a copy of ' Brief Remarks,' and they seemed much pleased and interested. The meeting at Mouhnie's is fixed for to-morrow. Ylth. — I went to dine with my old friend Gaultier, who received me cordially ; he spoke of De Langaleria, of Lausanne, as a devoted servant of the Lord, wishing me to see him. He then alluded to the precarious state of his own health, and the great probabihty of his bodily frame being unable to resist the winter; in that case, he said his son woidd go to England, 304 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. and he particularly wished for my counsel and advice for the young man. I desired that he would come to me immediately tti his arrival^ which seemed to reheve his father's mind; he wished us to sit a little in silence before dinner^ which we did to our mutual comfortj and T had peace in expressing a few words. Pastor Moulinie met us at dinner, where Gaultier's wife and son were also present. As we sat round the fire afterwards, Gaultier in- troduced the subject of printing an edition of my 'Brief Remarks,' and^ after some conversation, it was agreed it should be done. The dear old man wished to have a psalm read, and that we might afterwards have a pause for religious retirement, and we were again refreshed together in silence. I went next door to inquire after M. A. Vernet ; she was much engaged with her sick child, but begged I would sit a little with her; her heart was full, but our Diviue Master comforted us together with a feehng of his love, and my mind was much relieved. I beheve this Httle opportunity was very consolatory to her, and my faith is that she is upon the everlasting foundation, and ^vill be preserved to the end; she entreated me to call once more, just to take leave of them. 1 then went down to Professor Pictet's,, to take leave of the Prevot ; he gave me back my manuscripts of colonies at home, which his grandchildren have translated into French for insertion in the Bibhotheque Universelle. It was drawing towards the time for the meeting, and I went to Mouhnie's. My mind was under deep exercise with fervent mental prayer that the Lord would give strength for the day and bless his own work. Mouhnie says, that since Stephen and I were last here, they have frequently had httle silent meetings, and indeed the people seemed to be accustomed to them ; when the company was assembled, De Moulinie made a short prayer standing, and then read the last chapter of Daniel, and recommended our waiting upon the Lord in silence. I think it might safely be said there was a holy solemnity, wliich continued for some time. At length I rose and addressed them in Prench^ in which I was helped as I had been at La Tour, and got on remarkably well ; after I sat down, De Moulinie spoke, and in conclusion prayed, and the meeting separ- ated under precious feehngs. Many of the dear people came round 182.2.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. ■ 305 me expressing their love, and the consolation they felt on this occasion. My mind was filled with thankfulness that I had been thus far helped and supported. Gaultier Fils, who walked a httle way with me, said I had been perfectly understood, and that he was sure a strong impression had been made." The correctness of this persuasion was confirmed by subse- quent circumstances, and William Allen had the comfort of receiving some striking evidence that he had, indeed, been imder his Master's guidance in this engagement. The next morning he writes — "The retrospect of yesterday was peaceful. Eleventh Month \Wi. — Went to Dr. De Roche's to breakfast, and met several persons interested in the schools upon our plan ; we had much useful conversation, and also saw the master. I ad- vise that the pastors who are in the habit of performing domiciliary visits, should be requested to inquire into the state of the educa- tion of the poor, and encourage the parents to send their children regularly to school. Dr. De Roche's wife accompanied us to the girls' school, to which several ladies pay much attention. A young man came to say that Moulinie and several others were waiting for me. The good leaven is at work in this place, and I am glad I yielded to the impression of duty in coming here. We went to Satigny, where Pastor Gossen, a zealous young clergyman, resides, and then proceeded to perform the principal object of my ride, which was to visit Mary Ann Greaves, a pious English lady of some property ; she has resided seven years in Switzerland, and has been a powerful instrument in the Lord's hand to awaken many. It appears that, within the last year or two, there has been a great awakening at Lausanne ; that the work of the Lord is prospering dehghtfully, and that it is also going on in a wonderful manner in many other parts of Switzerland, as weU as in Russia; she has been very ill lately, but is in a sweet state of mind. Although I had never been personally acquainted with her, I could not feel easy to leave these parts without caUing upon her. I presented her with some books, and we had a good deal of interesting con- versation.- She says, that we have no idea of how much good is VOL. XL. T 306 LIFE AND COKRESPONDENCE [1822. done by these visits, or how much strength and comfort is afforded by them. Eleventh Month \9th. — Gaultier Fils, and Charles Vernet came to breakfast. I read in the Testament as usual ; the chapter was the 14th of John — 'Let not your heart be troubled/ &c. My mind was brought into tenderness with a feeling of the Saviour's love, and I encouraged the young men to choose the Lord for their portion, and not be ashamed to confess Him before men, adding some further counsel. Li the afternoon, we left Secheron to proceed towards Lausanne. The weather was fine, and the views of the mountains were grand indeed. In the retrospect of the day, however, I felt uncom- fortable in having given a scornful look at a person who I thought imposed." On arriving at Lausanne, William Allen went to find out the friend of Gaultiei*, Langaleria, from whom he received a kind and cordial welcome. They went to call upon many of his pious friends, and W. A. says — " It was exactly as if we had been paying famdy visits in our own society. There was a precious feehng accompanying me every where, though more in some places than in others. We generally remained some time in silence, and I was afterwards wonderfully helped to express myself in an iiitelHgible manner in French. We met with one person who has been very useful among the female prisoners, prajing with them and exhorting them ; she has been favoured with much success, but is now forbidden by the govern- ment and clergy to continue her work of love and charity. Some spiritually-minded young ministers, who used to meet together for rehgious exercises, are discountenanced and despised, and the unruly school-boys from the Academy, are even permitted to break the windows of pious people, who are often insulted in the streets. We had incited several persons to come in the evening, and after their arrival, Langaleria proposed that we should ' sit in silence, after the manner of Grellet! This we did for some time, and I was then led to explain some of our views and principles. I was much comforted with this day's work. My old friend 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 307 encouraged me to obedience, and to make any sacrifice that might be required ; he expressed his unity with all that had been said, and his conviction, that the Lord had bestowed upon me a gift for the edification of others. Eleventh Month 'ilst. — I went to call upon Pastor Auguste Eoshat, an interesting man, and one who has the cause of vital religion much at heart ; he says, that the Lord has a great work going forward in Switzerland." From Lausanne, "William Allen proceeded to Vevay; in reference to which, he says — " I find there is a httle flock here also." And in describing an evening, spent in a circle of devoted christians, he obseryes — • " I felt that the Lord was near ; and, I believe, the time was profitably spent." He mentions leaving Vevay with a peaceful mind; but adds — "The accuser of the brethren has been very busy with me during the day; but, though he has disturbed my peace, he has not prevailed." In a letter, written from Friburg, he says — " My object in coming here, was, to become acquainted with Pere Gerard, of the order of Franciscans, who has an excellent school for four hundred boys, partly upon our plan, and partly upon a plan of his own. I am very glad to have seen him, and have learned from him some things which I think will be useful in our own schools. His system of questioning is admirable, and I find the Scriptures are taught in this school. He gave me a most cordial reception, though I had no letter of introduction, and is willing to become a correspondent. Doors are opening every where, and this journey, though begun in the faith, and under heavy discouragement from without, has, blessed be my Divine I^Iaster ! so far, answered admirably." V 2 308 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. It was Williaru Allen's usual practice, in this journey, to devote a portion of time, on the first day of the week, to religious worship with his nephew and servant; and these seasons are often noticed, as proving times of refreshment, wherein he experienced a httle renewal of strength. Such was the case on the first day spent at Berne, whither they went from Friburg, and he afterwards went to call on some serious persons, who received him afi'ectionately. Ou the 2-ith, mentioning to the aged pastor, Wittenbach, his desire to meet some friends here at a re-union, the old man was quite anxious to promote it, and as his own room was too small for the purpose, he sent to a lady in the neighbourhood, the wife of a counsellor of state, to make enquiry respecting her apartments; she most readily offered them for the following afternoon, and William Allen writes — " I felt rather alarmed, but at the same time thought it would be dangerous to refuse. To have a meeting with persons, all of whom were outwardly strangers to me, and not one of them speaking my language, without any friend to strengthen or encourage me, appeared very formidable; I, however, dared not shrink from it. Eleventh Month 2'bth. — ^The Prefect of the Council called, and went with me to the prison. I had some communication with a man confined for murder, and likely to suffer death very shortly ; 'urging upon him the necessity of deep contrition, and entreating him to apply to the Sa^dour. The poor creature seemed affected, and I am not without hopes of him. There is a Bible or Testa- ment in each of the rooms, and we found him reading in one of them. I felt much the weight of the prospect before me in the evening, but faith seemed given proportioned to the day. In the afternoon, in company with Pastor Lorza, I paid several interesting visits, and among the rest, to the daughter of the celebrated Baron Haller, a nice old lady, in the full possession of all her faculties at the age of eighty-two. She gave me some of her father's hand- writing ; her daughter fives with her. We went to M. Diesbach's X822.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 309 rather before the time appointed for the meeting, and had a very kind reception from her, but her husband could not be present, having to attend a meeting of the secret council, of which he is a member. A large company assembled, in which were the members of the Bible committee, and also those of the- missionary and prison committees, the prefect, and several pastors, &c., &c. ; dear old Wittenbach seems to be the patriarch among them. He spoke to me about the arrangements for the soiree, and thought I had better, in the first place, state, in conversation, some particulars of what had occurred in the journey with Stephen Grellet, and then, as way opened, relieve my mind. I felt quite satisfied with this proposition, and when the company was seated, he opened the way for me in a Httle address explanatory of the business. Pastor Gallard then made a short prayer standing, after which Pastor Wittenbach, by asking me a few questions, engaged me to speak of the origin of the Scripture Lessons, of the state of prisons in various parts, &c., &c. All this I was obhged to do in French, but I got on very satisfactorily, and several said I was well understood. I had to answer a number of questions, particularly about Greece. M. Diesbach came to ask my advice respecting the management of female prisoners, and I promised to procure her information from E. J. Pry. During all this time my mind was under deep exercise, but I felt that the Master was near, and in the pauses allowed me while the company were talking together, I was sensible of a sweet solenmity. At length 1 whispered to Pastor Wittenbach, that I wished they would indulge me with sitting a httle time in silence. He kindly mentioned it to them, and we were immediately as still as in a meeting for worship. After sitting thus for some time, I found it my place to stand up and address them, which I did in Prench ; my great Master favoured me in the needful time, and I was led on without stop or hesitation, to my own humbhng admi- ration. They appeared to feel the force of what was said, and when my mind was fully reheved, I sat down in sweet peace. The dear old man took me by the hand, and, in their way, returned thanks in the name of the company, stating how much he had been gratified with what had taken place that evening. He took 310 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE ]^1822. leave of me affectionately, saying that if we never again met in this world, he trusted we should in a better country. I parted from others also in much affection. Lorza accompanied me to the iim, and when he was gone I made up several packets of tracts for different persons. My mind was humbled in reverent thank- fulness.'' A letter from Geneva, written about this time, mentioned that a great impression had been made by what passed in the meeting there. ^'Eleventh Month '^Qth. — Started about seven on our way to Zurich. We passed many substantial farm-houses, indicating that the possessors were in easy, if not affluent, circumstances.'" On arriving at Zurich he writes — " I visited ' Pasteur et Professeur Gessner Lavater,' and was cordially received both by him and his wife. I fixed to take coffee with them to-morrow evening, when all the family will be assembled. I saw the house of the celebrated Lavater ; he hved about seventeen months after the wound which caused his death. I called on Professor Homer, who has been a voyage round the world ; and thence went to Escher, Professor Pictef s friend, who planned and carried into execution the famous canal in the valley of Lintz, which has drained a great quantity of land, and stopped the ravages of a river. Pastor Gessner went with me to call on the aged Antistes Hess, who received me very cordially, and we had some very interesting rehgious conversation, with which Gessner seemed particularly struck and pleased. The old man, now upwards of eighty years of age, seems to be in a sweet frame of mind, with his loins girded and his hght burning, waiting for the proclamation, ' Behold the bridegroom cometh.' There was something precious to be felt during this visit; we parted in much affection, never to meet again in this world. Gessner then took me to see the brother of the late learned authoi Lavater, and both he and his wife gave me a most kind reception. 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 311 They showed me a beautiful little bust of J. C. Lavater, and we afterwards took a walk to the place where the bust of the poet Gessner is placed. I went to Escher's in the evening, met some interesting characters, and had much useful conversation about objects relating to humanity. I am to send some works for their library. Escher says, that in Switzerland there are no persons miserably poor, and none very rich. Eleventh Month 9,^th. — Professor Homer kindly devoted most of the morning to visiting the public institutions with me. Pastor Gessner took me to see Pestalozzi, a very respectable old man who devotes much of his time to the care of the hospital here. Gess- ner told me that his vdfe wished to see me if it were only for a quarter of an hour ; I found it was to have some religious conver- sation more select than in the family, and we had a time of refresh- ment together. They are, I believe, a sincerely religious couple ; she is daughter to the celebrated Lavater, and he the son of the poet Gessner; they have five daughters, three of whom are married, and one son, a very fine young man, and of a sweet disposition ; I went to their house to tea, and met the different branches of the family. After an hour or two spent in useful conversation, I re- quested that we might sit together in silence, waiting upon the Lord, and seeking after his good presence, in the secret of the soul. We then had a solemn time indeed; the states of some present seemed opened to me, and I had to address them, speaking in Erench. The dear parents and some of the children seemed brought into tenderness of spirit, and were much affected. I thought that the Lord's love and power were eminently present, and, after a solemn pause, I told them that it was in my heart to pray in my own language. I then knelt down and suppKcated in Enghsh ; Gessner knelt by me ; it was a melting time, which I beheve will never be forgotten by some of them. The father embraced me affectionately, and would go with me to the inn, also that fine youth bis son ; the dear young man, with tears in his eyes, begged that I would pray for' him. 30^A. — Wrote pretty closely to Professor Pictet about the pro- ceedings at Lausanne. An interesting young man from Geneva breakfasted vrith us ; he received, most feehngly, a little religious 312 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. advice, which I thought it right to give him ; the tears stood in his eyes ; he begged me to write my name in a book which I had presented to him, and we parted in much love. We came to "Wiaterthur, and called upon some pious persons whose names were on my list. Twelfth Month \st. — Pastor Hanhart called, and we had much religious conversation. I laid it upon him to encourage that which is good in the young people, and to watch for the buddings of it. We set off in the afternoon for St. Gallen. Musing, as I went along, it appeared to me that, as, in an outward journey we must pass over all parts of the road, the rough as well as the smooth, before we reach our destination, so is it ia the journey of life ; when, therefore, we are cast down and distressed with difficulties and discouragements, let us endeavour patiently to press forward, and cheerfuUy look towards the end, and we shall, in time, pass over every had piece of road. I had heavenly feehngs as I rode along, and was brought into much tenderness of spirit. The views of snow-topped mountains were superb." At St. Gallen, William Allen was much interested in the two famihes of Schlatter. He mentions that Daniel Schlatter, an excellent young man, is so zealous for the conversion of the heathen to Christianity, that he is gone to live among the Nogaye Tartars, near Orloff, in the south of Russia. He is suffering many privations, and submits to live in a Tartar family as a servant, in order to learn their language, and be useful to them. W. A. was, as usual, diligently engaged in religious labours, and in reference to an evening spent vdth some serious persons, he says — " I was remarkably favoured to answer several questions which were asked, in such a manner as to give satisfaction to the company ; appropriate texts of Scripture being brought to my mind to support what I advanced. Anne Schlatter gave me a letter 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. " 313 of introduction to a friend of hers, at Stuttgard. They have a son in the missionary establishment at Basle : this institution is renowned throughout Switzerland." On his way to Stuttgard, he mentions his petitions being put up for those dear to him, and adds — " I prayed also, that the Lord would be pleased to break down, and overthrow all that stood in the way of the progress of the gospel among the nations, and that he would sweep away the refuge of lies. We passed the Barriere, at the entrance of the kingdom of Wurtemberg, and reached Tubingen. I find that there are eight hundred students here, and Professor Steudel, to whom I had a letter of introduction, informs me, that several of those studying theology, are very pious, and meet together for rehgious exercises. Like all the rest, he spoke very affectionately of dear S. GreUet. J. P. Greaves, the brother of M. A. Greaves is here, and I was introduced to him ; both he and Steudel spoke highly of Adelbert, Count Yon der Eecke, of Dusselthal, near Dusseldorf, who has an establishment for vagabond children, and those who are deserted, or have lost their parents. It began in consequence of the distress in some parts of Germany, occasioned by the last war." On arriving at Stuttgard, Wilham AUen found much to engage his attention, both in visiting pubhc institutions, and in a circle of religious friends, some of whom remarked, that he had been sent just at the right time. He learned that the mother of the Queen wished to see him, but she was not then at Stuttgard. He readily obtained an interview with the King of Wurtemberg, having been previously recommended to the King, by the Emperor of Russia. On the day appointed for his visit to the palace, he writes — " After dinner, I went into my own room, where I was engaged in prayer, and a comforting evidence was granted, that I should be helped tlu-ough. I went to my friend Haering's, where a 314! LIFE AND COKUESPONDENCE [1822. messenger came to conduct me to the palace. The Kjng received me very kindly, and his manners are affable. Just as we were beginning to converse, he stopped short, and said he must go for the Queen, as she also wished to see me ; she accordingly came, and they entered with interest into the subjects brought forward. In speaking of prisons, I stated what I considered the evils of employing Galerians to work in the public streets, &c. The King much wishes to make an alteration with respect to them, and I suggested, that as the plan now pursued was acknowledged to be injurious, the first step might be, to let none be added to those managed on the present system, and then it would gradually come to an end. We had some further conversation about a society being formed, &c., and I am quite sure that the way is open for a good prison committee. We talked of the occurrences of my former journey, and my visit to the Waldenses, &c. ; this naturally opened the way for conversation upon toleration in matters of rehgion. I remarked in substance, that the business of civil governors was the protection of the people in their rights and privileges, and to see that no one trespassed upon another, but that they had nothing to do in matters of rehgion, provided that the good order of the community was not disturbed. Both the King and the Queen most fully assented to this doctrine, and approved of toleration in its fullest extent. They also agreed with me that, unless any thing appeared injurious to morals and the good order of society, it was better to leave people alone, for if they had an idea of being persecuted it would only strengthen them in any false notions. We spoke of the persecution at Lausanne, of which they both highly disapproved. We conversed also about schools, but so great is the care taken in this kingdom of the education of the poor, that they are generally taught to read ; however, the king likes the plan of the British system. I showed them the English Scripture Lessons, and explained what had been doing in this way in the different lan- guages of Europe, with wliich they seemed much pleased. I was careful not to make things tedious, and offered several times to rise, but the King would not let me go ; he spoke of Stephen^s visit with pleasure, and desired to be remembered to him when 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 315 I wrote. During the conversation I felt something very precious covering our minds, and this feehng increasing towards the close, I had, under the influence of it, to make some remarks on the subject of rehgion, wliich appeared to be felt by both the King and Queen, and we parted, I believe, under mutual feehngs of christian regard and affection. They cordially took me by the hand, and the King said that if there was anything in which he could gratify me at Stuttgard, he should be glad to do it. This audience occupied from an hour and a half to two hours. I then returned to my friend Haering, who accompanied me to make several calls, and, amongst the rest, upon the father of Steinkopff, who is eighty-six years of age, and can yet see to paint without spectacles. My mind was under a weight of exercise in the pro- spect of a meeting, appointed this evening, but I was mercifully supported. On going into the apartments prepared for the occasion, we found a number of persons assembled. Ilaering introduced me to W. G. Baumann, who spoke English, and was quite wilUug to interpret for me. I acknowledged his kindness, at the same time remarking that we had never any thing preme- ditated, but that, should I feel it my duty to say any thing, I should be glad of his assistance as interpreter. The rooms were soon crowded, and, after a Kttle pause, Baumann gave out a psalm. We then remained some time in silence ; great solemnity prevailed ; at length I rose, and had to explain the nature of vital Christianity, the state of man in the fall, his recovery from that state by belief in the Saviour, and attention to the influence of the Divine Spirit, the insufficiency of man as man to help himself, the great object of our existence, which was to experience a being made acceptable to the Eather, through his son Jesus Christ. Baumann interpreted sentence by sentence, exceedingly well, and we were favoured with a degree of the power and presence of the Lord ; a precious solemnity covered us, which, I beheve, was felt to be such by many. I endeavoured to be careful to stop at the right time. A pause ensued, and I requested Baumann to inform the company that I felt it upon my mind to pray, in Enghsh, but did not desire to have the prayer interpreted ; some who were present understood 316 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1822. English, though but few could speak it. Here also I was sup- ported with a feeling of the Lord's power, and several were much affected. On rising from my knees my mind felt relieved and peaceful. Many took leave with much affection, and I was made humbly thankful in having been thus remarkably helped tlirough this important day. I am glad that I have been led to visit this interesting place." The next day William Allen left Stuttgard. In describing Carlsruhe, which they passed through, he says — " I think this one of the prettiest towns I have ever seen." On arriving at Bergzabern, he called upon the person to whom "Wiltz of Neuwied had given him a letter, and who was consi- dered the principal person among the " Inspirees ; " but he did not feel that satisfaction in his intercourse with these people, which he had experienced among other pious christians ; he be- lieved them to be under a delusion, and though he tenderly cautioned them respecting what he considered their errors, he did not feel any opening for religious communication in the meeting which he attended ; he left them with much concern on their account. On the frontier of the French territory they underwent a strict search, and were asked if they had any of O'Meara's books, but William Allen told them no ; that he was not a political character, but anxious to promote the good of all parties, and the officers treated them with great civility. At Strasburg, he met with some interesting and pious persons, and found much to engage his attention. In a visit to Professor Krafft, at the Protestant Seminary, he had an oppor- tunity of addressing a class of the students, and says — " I reminded them, among other things, that although the Holy Scriptures themselves, the best of books, were given by inspiration of God, yet in order to profit by them, and understand them aright, we must seek after a measure of the divine mfluence; 1822.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 317 that though it was proper for us to cultivate our intellectual facul- ties, yet religion consisted in entire devotion of the heart to God. The great duty of prayer was also enforced, and I took my leave in a feehng of love, shaking hands with each of them. They behaved very respectfully, and the Professor was affectionate, and seemed much gratified. Twelfth Month 14th. — Cornelius and I went to Deptford meeting, where we met dear E. J. Pry and her sister-in-law. We had a quiet 1823.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 339 comfortable meeting, and were all engaged in ministry. We dined at Francis Crcsswell's where we were cordially received. Went to Peckham meeting in the afternoon. . This little expedition has answered. Fourth Month Ylth. — Eose at six. Comforted with the hope that when this tabernacle is taken down, the immortal spirit will be received by my Divine Master. 20/y^. — Went up to the Duke of Wellington without an appoint- ment, but he kindly saw me directly ; I presented him with a set of our Scripture Lessons. We talked about Russia, and the report of the Emperor's being about to send an army into Spain; he told me I might be perfectly easy on that point, for the Powers of Europe would not suffer a Russian army to march through their states. He says, he certainly knows that the rising of the Greeks was in consequence of the directions of members of a committee in Paris, who hoped to involve Russia in a war with all Europe. He conversed about the Abolition of Slavery, and I told him our views. He spoke in favour of the Spanish plan, viz : — to give the slaves, besides first-day, a day to themselves, and an opportu- nity to work out their freedom by degrees. I made some enquiry respecting the proposed conference with France, and also vtdth regard to the papers relative to the transactions at Verona being laid on the table of the House of Commons ; he observed that the delay had arisen from the other pressing engagements of George Camiing, but he thinks that the Spanish business will not prevent it, or stand in the way. He promises to speak to Canning on the subject, and to give me an introduction to him. I obtained consent from the Duke to have his name on the list of vice presi- dents of the African Institution. I likewise spoke to him respect- ing the Vaudois, and left him J. P. Yertue's last letter, which he will show to Canning and return to me. IWi. — Foreign correspondence committee. Alfred Gaultier, of Geneva, arrived this morning. ■ 'iilth, — Attended the funeral of Frederick Smith, at Croydon; the interment took place before meeting, and many Friends were present. E. J. Fry prayed very sweetly at the ground; the meeting-house was crowded, but a quiet solemnity prevailed. X 2 340 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. Several Friends spoke in ministry. I rose with the words, ' In my Father's house are many mansions, kc' Dined at Thomas Cliristy's, and Rebecca went to town with us to see Mary." William Allen had, for some time past, been occasionally brought into deep thoughtfulness on the subject of writing to the Emperor of Russia, and at length, believing it to be his duty to address him, he sent the following letter : — TO ALEXANDER THE FIRST, EMPEROR OP RUSSIA, FROM HIS SINCERELY ATTACHED FRIEND, WILLIAM ALLEN. "London, 29M of Fourth Month, (April,) 1823. "Under the influence of the same love which drew me to Yienna, to seek an interview with thee, I am induced to state a few particulars of my journey home, and inform thee of some circumstances and prevalent opinions in this country, with which I think it is of great consequence that thou shouldst be acquainted. I beg thee to consider this communication as entirely of a private nature, flowing from a heart warm with affection for thee ; and if thou shouldst hereafter condescend to take notice of it, in any way, such notice shall be considered by me as confidential. I have found from the person who went as courier from Turin, that my letter on the subject of the Vaudois, reached thee at Verona.'^ On leaving Turin, I proceeded by the pass of Mount Cenis, to Geneva. I visited several pious persons in that city, also at Lausanne, Vevay, Friburg, Berne, Zurich, Winterthur, and St. Gallen. In most of these places I had rehgious meetings with serious people, wherein we were sweetly refreshed together in * A letter from Vertu, who went as special courier to Verona, states, " I have learned that your letter to the Emperor of Russia, produced some observations from him on our behalf. He has subscribed towards an hospital for the Protestants, and a house is preparing for this object." 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 341 Christ Jesus, our Lord, the influence of whose ever blessed Spirit and love, united our hearts, and, at times, made us experience in some degree, what it is to sit together in Him, our Holy Head, A.nd truly the Lord hath a precious seed scattered through the nations, which is well worthy of being visited. I next went by Constance to Stuttgard, where I had the pleasure of becoming acquainted with some who love the Saviour, and are devoted to his cause, and in a large meeting which I held with them, the Lord was pleased to comfort us together, and to strengthen our hearts in his love. The King was informed of my arrival, and admitted me to a private audience, at which the Queen was present. I was delighted to find their hearts were bent upon promoting the best interests of their people, and that although a variety of opinions, on matters of religion, exists among their subjects, they wisely consider that it is not their duty to interfere, except in cases where morals, the good order of society, and the safety of the state, require it. This enlightened pohcy, as well as true Clmstian feehng, will tend to secure to them the affection of their subjects. They Kstened with much attention to my remarks on their prisons, and are quite willing to adopt any measures which may lead to improvement in the present system. Several other topics interest- ing to humanity were introduced, and among the rest the education of the poor. Tliis, I am glad to find, is well attended to in these parts ; and I am at the same time informed, that there is perhaps no other state in Germany, where there are so many private as well as public meetings for religious worship. This interview lasted from an hour and a haK to two hours; tlirough the whole of it, and especially towards the close, I was favoured to feel, as I thought, something of our Divine Master's love, under which strong desires were raised in my mind for their preservation, and I believe we parted in the conviction that there is something in real, vital religion, which infinitely surpasses all sublunary tilings.^' After stating some further particulars of his proceedings, "VV. AUen continues : — " On reviewing the steps of this journey, undertaken solely from a sense of religious duty, I have had to admire the condescending 34-2 LIPE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823, goodness of our Heavenly Father, in making a way where there seemed to be none, in furnishing strength and ability to do His work, always proportioned to the occasion ; in preserving me in dangers, in supporting my drooping spirits, and enabhng me, from time to time, to trust in Him, until at length He safely brought me through all which I beheved He required me to do. Thus He has given me to see that if any good has been done, it is His doing, and to Him be all the praise now and for ever. Sometimes, in this, my solitary journey, when I have been walking up the hills, for the rehef of the horses, my mind being turned to the Lord, I have been contrited in prayer ; my supph- cations have been poured forth, that the kingdom of the Redeemer might be more and more extended, and that all that stands in the way of its advancement might be broken down, overthrown and destroyed. At some of these seasons I have had a behef that the Lord is indeed arising by his power, to carry on a great work in the earth ; and O ! saith my soul, that all of us may be preserved from doing anything to counteract it. I have indeed, dear friend, prayed fervently for thee, that thou ma/st be induced to seek deeply for divine direction in thy awfully important decisions, that so thou ma/st experience a continuance of that protecting providence, which has so eminently and conspicuously been round about thee in years tliat are past. In my first interview with thee at Vienna, on the 28th of Ninth Month (September) last, I expressed a deep conviction that thou wast under very pecuHar difficulties and trials-, and, although unacquainted -with the precise nature of them, I sympathized much with thee. The momentous occurrences, which have since taken place, and which are daily taking place, have led me to recur to those feehngs, Thoa know^st that my love for thee is pure and disinterested — thou know'st that I have disclaimed all party or pohtical feehngs, and I humbly trust that thou \iQsifelt that I rest aU my hopes, for time and in eternity, upon the love of God in Christ Jesus my Lord. At the present moment, then, so awfully interesting to a friend whom I most dearly and tenderly love, and to the cause of mankind, permit me to reheve my mind from a heavy burden, which has been increased by witnessing the feehngs. 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 343 with which the various classes of society in this country, are agitated with regard to thee. Thy kindness^ I trust, will excuse me, if, for want of that information of which thou art in possession, I am needlessly alarmed. It seems, however, due to the affection which I have so long cherished for thee, to produce a candid statement of the reports currently circulated and universally beheved. It is said, that the Emperor of Eussia, who had so publicly patronized the societies, in America and England, for the promotion of universal peace, has now become the secret and open abettor of war; that, while he would not interfere to check the horrors perpetrated in Greece, on the ground, that it was wrong to inter- meddle between a people and their government, and also, lest it might kindle a new war, is, now, in the instance of Spain, interfering between a people and their government, and encouraging France in measures, the extent and termination of wliich, it is as impossible to foresee, as were the measures adopted by England at the time of the Erench Revolution, in 1792. IN otwithstanding we have our share of deists and infidels, and friends to revolution in general, perhaps no country in the world can produce so large a proportion of friends to rehgion and social order, as England. Many of this class are persons of education, of talent, and of property. To a very considerable extent they lead the public mind, and are the firmest support of the govern- ment. But these persons deprecate, in the strongest manner, all interference of France in the concerns of Spain, or of any other country. They think, that the object and end of every government ought to be, the protection and the happiness of the people : that the people of every country are the best judges of the extent of the protection they enjoy, and of the degree of their happiness, and, that these points ought to be settled between them and their rulers, without any foreign interference whatever. They say, that all human institutions are susceptible of improvement, and that, in the progress of Hght and knowledge, the institution of government, among the rest, may undergo a favourable change, — that it would be wise to admit of reform gradually, where it is obviously needed, lest, by an obstinate resistance to the current of pubhc opinion, when it happens to be founded in good sense, and the nature of 344 LIFE AlfD COEIIESPONDENCE [1823. things, this current may become so strong, as, suddenly, and with great damage, to bear down all before it, and produce a revolution. They think, that, if Prance succeeds, the estabhshment of the horrid inquisition will be one of its consequences, not only in Spain, but in Trance itself; and that the authority of the Jesuits, — those foes to real Christianity, — will be estabhshed over a great part of Europe. They are of opinion, that the rapid progress, which this intriguing sect is now making through France and Italy, ought to strike every friend to primitive Christianity with alarm and terror. They maintain, that the spirit of infideHty is not to be put down by the sword, but can only be conquered with spiritual weapons. ^ The friends of revealed rehgion have looked up to thee, dear Emperor, with tender affection, as a brother beloved in Jesus Christ ; as an honoured instrument in the divine hand, to promote the cause of truth and righteousness. They have considered thee as one of their body. They have felt the reproaches made against thee, as if they had been made, in some measure, against them- selves. As for me, when I am assailed, as I constantly am, with this language, 'What do you think now of the Emperor of Eussia?^ I do not fail to state my uuBhaken eonviction of the sincerity of his intentions, and my firm belief, that the first wish of his heart is, to be made instrumental in preserving the peace and tranquillity of Europe. That the information which he has received, of the attempts of persons under the influence of infidel principles, to produce revolutions, has induced him to take the part which he has done. And now, dear Emperor, having reheved my mind upon this subject, I wish to commend thee, with my own soul, to ' Him who alone is able to keep us from falling,^ and hope, that nothing which I have written may give the smallest offence, or be attributed to any party views. I do not belong, nor have I ever belonged, to any political society. My great object, while continued in this, probationary state, is, to unite with pious persons, of all denomina- tions, in endeavouring to promote the universal diffusion of christian principles, which are the only soHd foundation for the happiness of man, in time and in eternity. 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 345 Our religious society has felt it to be its duty, as a body, to intreat our government to take early measures for the gradual Abolition of Slavery, in our West India Islands. I enclose a copy of the petition to the legislature, and also a statement of the objects of a large and respectable society, recently formed in London, to promote the Abohtion of Slavery. Having travelled in Greece, during the year 1819, I became acquainted Tvith many of the principal persons in that country; and at Scio, in particular, my dear fellow traveller Grellet and I, were most kindly and hospitably entertained. I could not, of course, but be deeply affected with the catastrophe which after- wards occurred there. Members of our rehgious society have felt so much compassion for the sufferings of the Greek refugees, that, in conjunction with some other individuals, they have raised a subscription for their rehef, which now amounts to more than six thousand pounds sterhng. I have just received a comfortable letter from my dear friend Daniel "Wheeler. 1 should rejoice to hear that thou hadst found time to look at his labours in the Moscow Road. * And now, dear Emperor, permit me once more to crave thy excuse for having so frankly and fuUy laid open my heart ; I feel such a tender attachment to thee, that it seems as if I could go to the end of the world, if I could thereby be made instrumental in administering comfort and encouragement to thy deeply tried mind. Be assured, that as I feel enabled, my prayers shall continue to be put up for thee. That the Shepherd of Israel may preserve thee to the end, is the earnest desire of thy affectionate and respectful- friend, WiLLiAii Allen." Fourth Month Z^th. — Went to the Royal Society to introduce Alfred Gaultier ; it answered well ; I afterwards brought him with me to Newington. Fifth Month Incl. — I waited at the lobby of the House of Com- mons to speak to members about the motion of T. WiUiams, M.P. * Not long after this period, the Emperor paid a very kind visit to Daniel Wheeler. 346 LIFi; AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. for Lincoln, who is to move for leave to bring in a bill to admit of the affirmation of Triends in criminal cases. I saw and spoke to WilHams on the subject; he was very kind and civil, but his great argument is, that the ends of pubhc justice are obstructed by the incapacity of Friends to give their evidence ; on the other hand, we say, the laws are so sanguinary that we had rather not be instrumental in putting them into execution; he agrees to state that Eriends do not desire the measure. Fifth Month Srd. — I had an audience with the Duke of Wellington by appointment; he received me very cordially; the subjects claiming notice, were — First, Yerona papers on the Slave Trade, and when they would be laid on the table of the House of Commons ; he said that they were printing, and that they would very shortly be brought forward. Second, respecting the conference to be held in London with the French plenipotentiaries and other powers. Third, Turin, and Vertu's letter ; my great object was to pro- cure from him an introduction to George Canning, which he readily gave, and wrote a letter at once for me to take to Canning. Fourth, The hundred and fifty Greek refugees now in Switzer- land, who came from Odessa, and were intending to pass through France to Amsterdam, but the French government would not permit it. I wished the Duke to speak to Canning, requesting him to use his influence with the French minister to let them come to Marseilles, where we might be able to assist them to get home, but he thinks that they consist of some of the principal Greeks from Constantinople, and are marked pohtical characters, so that there would be some difficulty about it ; however, I think that the conference did good. The Duke wished me to have seen Professor GaU, the craniolo- gist, but he did not come. I afterwards called on the Marquis of Lansdowne, to sohcit his attendance at the anniversary of the British and Foreign School Society ; he pleaded many engage- ments, but I urged him to come, if it were but for an hour. I then went to the African Institution rooms, in Fludyer Street; met W. Smith, Lord Bute, Lord Calthorp, Dr. Lushington, Macaulay, and 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 347 W. Evans, M.P., and we proceeded to the Foreign Office, Down- ing Street, where we had a conference with G. Canning for about an hour ; he says, Verona papers will be laid on the table early in next week. He took memoranda about the Brazils. Dr. Lush- ington stated the matter about Albreda, &c., most ably ; I also spoke on this subject. Canning says, there is no feeling in France at all on the Slave Trade; that the more the matter is pressed, the worse it is. I was dehghted to see him so well disposed. He is to be furnished with a written paper about Albreda, which Macaulay engages to prepare : this must be followed up. Fifth Month 1th. — About seven o'clock this morning a note was brought me from dear Comehus, to say that my precious child was confined vdth a fine boy, about one o'clock this morning, and that all was going on well. I was contrited and bowed in reverent thankfulness at the news, and when left alone I knelt down, and, with tears, returned thanks, imploring also that the Lord would bless the child, and make him his. I went to town, and saw my dear daughter and the infant. E. J, Fry and K. Capper have been extremely kind. I afterwards attended the great Bible meeting at Freemason's Hall. Papof made a very good speech in EngHsh, also Professor Stapfer, from Paris, who spoke with much excellent feeling; Daly, from Ireland, powerfully advocated the cause, and strongly recom- mended the piinting of the Scriptures in the Irish language. There were some other very impressive addresses. Basd Papof and Dr. Paterson came with me to Newington, — ^liad some interesting conversation about Russia and the Emperor. %th. — Called on Baron Steinheilt about Elias Eliason Tasted, and the Stavanger Friends. The Baron enters warmly into their cause." This interview was in consequence of a letter which W. Allen received from Elias Eliason Tasted, stating that he had been prosecuted in the courts of Christiansand and Christiania for burying two of his children without the ceremonies of the church, and that judgment was given against him, also that he had petitioned the King, and William Allen says — 348 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. " I concluded to write to the King, and remind him of the promise of protection which he was so kind as to make to S. G. and me, when we were at Stockholm in the year 1818. Dined with Lord Besley, at Great George^s Street ; Sir B. Hobhouse was there, and a family party. Fifth Month %th. — Took my letter to the King of Sweden to Baron Steinheilt, the Swedish Ambassador. Went to see my dear child and the infant; both seem going on well, though Mar/s pulse is quick. 10^/^. — Set off to town at eight o' clock.''' On this day, the first indication appears of decided anxiety respecting his beloved daughter, whom he mentions as poorly, yet he says — "I attended to my appointment with George Canning. The first subject we conversed upon was the Vaudois, and I stated that the Sardinian government had not fulfilled its promises, I requested leave to send httle packages to them through the foreign office, which was instantly granted. I then explained about oui Greek subscription, &c., and, just as I had finished, the Duke of Wellington came in. I happened to say something about Slavery, Canning immediately looked very grave, and seemed to feel deeply ; he said that Buxton's book would be answered by insurrection. I repHed, I hoped not, and that we should be extremely sorry if any such thing took place. Both he and the Duke requested me to use my influence with Buxton, to induce him not to push the matter to extremity, but to let-it become a measure of government, I wrote a letter to Buxton, begging him to call upon tbe Duke of Wellington. I agreed to meet E. J. Fry at Staines meeting to-morrow, if I did not find my dear child worse. \lth. — ^Fouud that Mary had had a poor night, so I did not go to Staines. She was much better in the course of the day, and I went to Devonshire House meeting. \'ith. — ^To town under anxious feelings. This is the anniversary of the British and Foreign School Society, and a harassing time for me. The report is one of the best we have had for a long 1823.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 849 time. It was read by G. Clayton^ and T. S. Eicc moved that it be received, &c. ; he made a very animated speech. Papof and Paterson came to Plough Coiu't with me. J\Iy dear child is rather worse, so that I feci much tried." After this date, no memorandum occui-s for about a wcelr, and, in recommencing his notes, W. A. 'UTites — " My deep plunges and poignant anguish, together with being in town for some days, have prevented my making daily remarks as usual. On second-day, when I found that my beloved child was seriously ill, I detennined to make her my sole object. I had Dr. Babington called in, in addition to other medical advice, and, feehng a more than ordinary interest in her case, he visited her two or three times daily. On fourth-day, the 14th, we were very low about dear Mary, but not without hope. Pifth-day, her strength seemed to fail, and, watching by her bed-side at night, my soul was poured out in secret supplication to our compas- sionate Saviom'. When thinking of the probabihty of my dearest earthly treasm'e, in whom my tenderest affections were concen- trated, being taken from me, I have prayed in an agony, and with many tears, that such a cup might pass from me ; nevertheless, I dared only ask it in conformity with the Divine will. Sixth-day, the pulse was one hmidred and sixty, and respiration short, yet she seemed under no anxiety or fear; she hieio that her Redeemer lived. Once she fixed her eyes upon me, and said, ' Dear father, my mind is impressed with the idea that thou thinkest I shall not recover ; ' I replied, that what the termination might be, was hid from us, and that all these cases were veiy uncertaiu ; she pursued the subject no farther. Her precious spuit was so prepared that if I had told her she could not, in my opinion, recover, I beheve it would have been no cause of fear or dismay. There has been always a sweet holy feeling about her ; indeed, her conduct was angehc, patient, cheerful, and sweet ; sometimes, in looking at her, I hardly knew how to contaiu my grief. This evening, as we stood round her bed, she smiled upon us aU, and looking at each separately, 350 LITE AND CORUESPONDENCE [1823. seemed full of love ; she spoke of the Httle band who loved one another^ and said how sweet was that feehng ; as long as conscious- ness remauied there was a heavenly smile upon her countenance. Mj agony was great ; all hope had now vanished, and I knelt by her bed-side in strong mental supphcation. On seventh-day morning, the 17th of Eifth Month, 1823, at about haK-past one o^ clock, I was deprived, by death, of this most tenderly beloved and inestimable child. When her blessed spii-it took its flight, we sat some time in profound silence. Dear Katherine Capper then knelt down, and gave thanks for the inward assurance that she had entered into the rest that is prepared for the people of God. She had long been meekly endeavom-iug to know and to perform the will of her Sa\aour, and I have the most unshaken confidence that He has received her unto Himself. Never, tlu'ough the whole course of her illness, did the least repining word escape her, — miiform, heavenly tranquillity rested on her countenance. The disorder was a severe bilious attack. Katherine Capper has been with her night and day from the beginning ; her quiet precious spirit is a great help to me. E. J. Pry also spent much time with us, and Eebecca Chi'isty, since her return from Essex, has been almost continually here dui'ing the day. These dear sisters in the truth have been a great consolation to us. Cornelius is divinely supported under the agonizing trial. ■ Eirst-day morning, the 18th, we read in the Scrip tm'es as usual, and in the pause afterwai'ds, the servants being present, I thought it right to repeat the text, ' The Lord gave, the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord / my poor mind is supported, though natm-e keenly feels. Fi/tk Month 22nd. — Sarah Grubb visited us. In a solemn time of rehgious retirement she administered consolation, expressing the undoubted assurance wliich she felt, that my beloved child had entered into her Master's rest. I had a sweet note of sjonpathy on third-day from WUberforce. Sixth-day, the 23rd, was a day of close trial; the remains of my precious cliild were deposited in the Eriends' burial gTound at Winchmore Hill, after a meeting appointed at ten o'clock. Robert Eorster has very kindly assisted in the preparations, also 1823.] ' OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 351 my brother Joseph, who was tenderly attached to the dear deceased. Cornehus continued to be supported, but we were both very low. O, what a stroke! It was a crowded meeting, as my dear child was universally beloved, but we were seated in great quietness, and I was thankful for a feeling of deep solemnity ; many Friends spoke in ministry, and the silence was impressive. On withdrawing to the ground, a large circle was formed round the grave, and a solemn stillness prevailed. Here also several Eriends ministered, and Cornelius knelt down in supph cation and thanksgiving, adopting the blessed language, ' Thy will be done.' I felt bound to offer up thanksgiving for the behef mercifully granted, that the dear deceased had been admitted into the mansions of rest and peace, and to intercede earnestly on behalf of those young people standing round the grave, for whom her soul had often travailed, that their steps might be directed into the way of peace ; praying, that in the end they might unite with her in the everlasting Hallelujah. When the whole was over, we returned directly to Newington. In the afternoon, we had a consoling religious opportunity, in which my dear brother Joseph spoke very tenderly and sweetly. Peaceful feelings prevailed." After this touching record of a father's grief, it may, perhaps, be admissible to say a few words, respecting the darling object of his hopes and affections. In early life, she evinced an amiable disposition, united w^th an excellent understanding. Her talents were improved by culture, and the bright promises of youth were realized in riper years. An engaging liveliness of manner was regulated by submission to the cross of Christ. The influence of her sweet and pious example was much felt amongst her associates of various classes, and she was beloved and cherished by a large circle of friends. Yet was humility a distinguishing feature in her character. The maturity of her judgment, and her religious experience, rendered her capable of being the sympa- thizing fi'iend, and even, at times, the counsellor of her tenderly 853 LIFE AND COEEESPONDENCE [1823. beloved father. The most perfect openness of friendship existed between them ; and, in speaking of her, he says — " I had fondly looked to her, as to one calculated to be useful in the church, and in the world at large ; and had hoped, that she would be the comfort and support of my dechning years, should they be lengthened out. But, ah ! it was otherwise ordered by Him who doeth all things well." To her, the language of the author of the Book of Wisdom seems peculiarly appropriate, — " Honourable age is not that which standeth in length of time, nor that is measured by number of years. But wisdom is the grey hair xmto men, and an unspotted life is old age." For several months previous to her decease, her friends had been struck with her heavenly-mindedness. The awful summons, though unexpected, did not find her unprepared. She loved her Saviour — her faith and her trust were in Him; and, in contem- plating her life and her death, we have an evidence, that " The work of righteousness is peace, and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance for ever." In writing to Sir James Wylie, soon after this period, William Allen says — " My last letter would inform thee of the affhction into which I have been plunged, by the death of my only and darling child. Her deep and unaffected piety, her superior understanding, and her affectionate attachment to me, rendered her inexpressibly precious. She was my most intimate friend, and my counsellor ; but it has pleased God, who, by his grace, made her what she was, to cut short the work in righteousness, and to receive her to Himself in glory. Of this I have been favoured to feel the most undoubted assurance. May we, my dear friend, daily endeavour to seek earnestly for an interest in the Saviour, that, when these earthly tabernacles fail, we may be for ever with Him, where He is, to behold His glory. 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 353 My mind has been wonderfully supported by divine grace, under this, otherwise, overwhelming affliction, though nature wrings from me the parental tear.'* The Princess Sophia Mestchersky, soon after hearing of this afflicting event, thus addressed William Allen : — "Dear and Respected Friend, " I know not how to write a letter of condolence to a man like you. Ah! what shall I say to you? to you, faitliful servant of our Divine Master, — to you, whom I have so often seen ready to give up all, wliich He, in His love, had granted to you. My heart trembles when I think of the loss you have sustained. Man, so long as he is in this earthly tabernacle, how resigned and submis- sive soever he may be, cannot fail to feel deeply, when a part of himself is torn away, and tliis grief was permitted by the Saviour. Ah! how vividly do I call to remembrance your tender love for this only child, who was already become your friend, and had proved herseK a faithful servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. I was just recovering from an illness of five weeks^ continuance, when I learnt the blow you had received. Your letter touched us all ; my husband, cliildren, aU who knew you here, sympathize in your sorrow. O, my respected friend, may we, in the time of the Lord's visitation, be as submissive as you; and may our divine Saviour, by his spirit and his love, sustain you unto the end. Pardon the faults of this letter. I am still very weak, but weak- ness of body could not prevent my sympathizing with you in spirit. Do not forget me in your prayers, and beheve me, united to you in spirit and in truth. Your affectionate friend, P. Sophie Mestchersky.'' (( 'Fifth Month 'ihth. — I recovered a little from my depression, and was cahned and comforted ; my prayers were put up that the Lord would direct my steps in the way that He would have me to go, and that He would draw me very near to HimseK. Attended Tottenham meeting in the morning and afternoon; I was a good deal overdone ; we had a sweet time of religious retirement on parting VOL. II. - - Y 354 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. with clear Katherine Capper^ who leaves us to-day; she has been quite a comfort and support to me in my keen affliction^ and was indefatigable in her attention to my beloved child, by night and by day." On the 26th, William Allen went to the Yearly Meeting, and was able to attend the remaining sittings. In reference to the concluding meeting of ministers and elders, he says — " An epistle was read from Mary Dudley, who is quite confined to her chamber with indisposition. It was sweet and satisfactory, and ordered to be recorded. In the evening my spirits sunk exceedingly, and I was plunged into the depths of sorrow, under a feeling of my irreparable loss. Sixth Month 1st. — Went to meeting at Devonshire House in the morning and afternoon, but the attendance of both meetings was too much for me in my present state. Though very low and unwell when I returned to Newington, yet I was able to read to the family. 2«^. — To town. John Fowler Hull called about Arabic Scrip- ture Lessons ; he undertakes to cut and paste a set, and put in the heads of the chapters ; he is wiUing to translate tracts into Arabic. In the afternoon went to John Sanderson's, in the Old Jewry, to meet the committee on H. Kilham's concern for Africa. Eichard Smith offers to go from a sense of duty ; his proposal is accepted, if two or three more Priends can be found who are also willing and suitable. A brother and sister in Ireland, of the name of Thompson, are to be written to on the subject. Uh. — Meeting, and Monthly Meeting. I remembered the time when my precious child sat in the same line with me, and the delight I experienced in hearing her sweet voice advocating the best of causes, and I seemed sunk too low to ex])erience any spiritual refreshment. Qth. — Meeting for Sufferings; a committee appointed to assist Robert Fowler, who is going to reside some time at Paris, under a feeling of religious duty. Josiah Porster has obtained leave of his Monthly Meeting to join him for a few weeks. 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. SSS Sixth Month \Mh. — Awake a long time in deep exercise of niind ; the watch must be maintained still more unremittingly against the enemies of my own house, who are alarmingly powerful. Ylth. — ^When I awoke during the nighty my mind was engaged to feel after the Lord. I have remembered these words of David, ' I will say unto God, my rock, why hast thou forgotten me ? ' and again, 'I go mourning all the day long.' I must arouse and exert myself, but I am sadly crushed and broken down. \%th. — After meeting I had a cruise westward. Received the King's subscription to the British and Foreign School Society, £100. Called at Count Lieven's, about some cows, &c., for Russia ; saw Prince Esterhazy there, and talked about our cottage plans; then to Count Mandelsloh, the Wurtemberg minister, a very nice man. I find that the so-called Holy Alliance, is inter- fering with the Bavarian government, and that the Wurtemberg Ambassador is withdrawn, because the King will not submit to their restrictions. I am glad that I wrote what I did to the Emperor of Russia. t^th. — Some comfort in the night ; my mind stayed upon God : hope revived, and I feel a little raised above my sorrow. Very busy in my study with correspondence; wrote to Ancona and MarseUles with remittances for the poor Greeks. Mary Stacey came to tea ; a Httle comforted and strengthened in her company. 22w<^?. — We went to Tottenham meeting ; here I felt inwardly strengthened, and had to speak in ministry on the words, ' There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.' P. Gurney and Anna Forster were there, and also spoke. Went back to the afternoon meeting, and in the evening read to the family in Isaiah. A sweet feeling of the presence of the Lord tranqiiilhzed our minds. 23r^/. — The Comforter was near in the night, and my heart was humbled and contrited on waking. A conference, at my cousin G. Birkbeck's, in the evening, about a school for boys, at my cottage in Lordship Road. Present, besides the Bradshaws, Joseph Janson, J. J. Lister, and Edward Harris. We agreed to have a young man as master, trained at the Kingsland school under J. Janson's superintendence. Y a 356 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. Sixth Month IMh. — Coraelius and I attended Southwark meet- ing in the morning ; we both spoke in ministry. In the afternoon I was at Tottenham meeting, and, at Mary Stace/s afterwards, met Robert Powler, who sets off for France to-morrow. I rode over to Southgate, to call upon John Walker, who has just lost his son Alfred, a fine young man, whose remains are to be interred at Winclunore HHl, but I do not feel equal to encounter the trial it would be to my feelings to attend the funeral. I had a sweet religious opportunity with him and some of his family. Returned to Newington with peace in the retrospect of this day.'" Seasons of divine favour in his devotions, both in the family, and in private, are, from time to time, gratefully commemorated. On one occasion, he says — " There was a degree of rehgious solemnity over us, for which I was thankful; I read one or two psalms before we retired, and then proceeded with the Life of Mary Fletcher." Soon afterwards, he writes — • ' »- "My mind calmed and drawn upwards; I knelt down by the bedside, feeling access in prayer, which ascended for my preserva- tion, and that of those nearest and dearest to me. Seventh Month ^th. — Read to the family Solomon's dedication of the temple; independently of every other consideration, it is an affecting piece of eloquence. 10^^. — ^E. J. Fry came down and dined with us. The afternoon being fine, we walked to the cottages and round by the Row, and had much open conversation about dear Mary and the better country, to our mutual consolation. My brother Samuel came in the evening; we were a httle comforted together. I went up to the observatory between eight and nine, and had one or two observations. \2.th. — ^Went to Hampstead to dine at Samuel Hoare's Jun., with Wilberforce, Buxton, W. Smith, and Dr. Lushington ; H. Newman was also there; some conversation about the Slave Trade. A satisfactory visit. 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 357 Seventh Month IMh. — Attended the Morning Meeting, where we read a MS. of the diary of Robert Searles, a journeyman miller. It contained much unction, and will make a valuable little tract. We proceeded more than haK through it and then adjourned. There was a precious feeling throughout the meeting. \hth. — Eose at six. Reading strictures of the Edinburgh Chrut'ian Imtructor on Robert Owen's pubhcations : they expose his principles very properly on many points, but appear to be uncandid in their remarks upon the morality of the people at the mills. My spirits fail very much; I scarcely feel energy to get through what is before me'; but I must rouse myself, as this depression nourishes that sorrow which brings spiritual death. W. Wilber- force and his wife came to dine with us, also a young person named Palmer, the daughter of a clergyman near Birmingham. W. W.''s wife was affected with the remembrance of her daughter, whose remains are interred here ; we however spent a pleasant afternoon. i \Wi. — Dined at J. Fry^s, at Plashet, where I again met W. Wilberforce and liis wife; also Counts Porro and Santa Rosa. It required an effort to pay this visit, but I was glad that I went. '^^th. — Our new meeting-house, in Gracechurch Street, was opened this morning. When we arrived at Plough Court we found Count Porro, of Milan, and Count Santa Rosa, of Turin, waiting to go to meeting. I was under much depression, but when the meeting settled there was a sweet solemnity. Isabella Harris, of Ackworth, spoke acceptably in ministry ; soon after she sat down I rose, and felt supported by the power of the Holy Spirit to deHver a pretty long communication; some other Priends also spoke in ministry, and the meeting ended with prayer. The whole felt sweet and confinning. Cornehus read to me the sheets of Joseph John Gurne/s book on the Peculiarities of Prieuds. I am much pleased with it. '^\st. — Morning Meeting. The manuscript of Robert Searle's diary was finished. Some inward comfort. After meeting called on Bowring ; he says that Lord Byron has given eight thousand pounds to the Greek cause. 358 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. Seventh Month 28^>^. — ^Went to Guy's Hospital to meet tlie treasurer; he approves of a plan I have suggested to introduce Alexander Barry. Afterwards called on Baron Theotoki, and met Dr. Thomas, who so kindly attended me at Zante. 'l^th. — Meeting at Gracechurch Street; my poor mind was com- forted, and 1 felt peace in speaking for a short time on the words, ' Trust in the Lord with aU thine heart : and lean not unto thine own understanding.'' Eighth Month Srd. — ^Alfred Gaultier returned from Ireland, and lodges with us. 4}th. — Richenda Pry read to me a little pamplilet just pubhshed, entitled ' Hints to Mothers,' No. 1 , to be continued monthly, by a disciple of Pestalozzi; it is most excellent, and ought to be widely diffused. The duties of a mother are placed in a strong light, and the good effects of the course of training there recom- mended, must be quite incalculable. I was affected to tears in hearing it read. Dr. Charles Mayo, of Epsom, a clerg\Tnan of the church of England, called about Pestalozzi's plan ; he has learnt the system, and he offers to teach any pupils whom I may send to Epsom. 10//^ — Rose at six; very low. Before I left my chamber, I took up the hymn book, and opened upon two very comforting hymns; one of them, by Eawcett, is on the words, 'As thy day, so shall thy strength be,' the other, by Stennett, ' Trust in God in time of trouble.' Ah ! Lord ! I have no hope but in thee ; forsake me not, O God of my salvation ! As we rode to meeting, I felt something of the calming influence of divine love, and when there, some words were spoken in ministry, wliich seemed attended with life. Samuel Capper, and some other Eriends, spoke in the afternoon also. l^th. — Meeting at Gracechurch Street; Katherine Capper was married to John Backhouse, of Darhngtou; E. J. Pry was sweetly engaged in supplication, alluding to the bereavements which had taken place amongst us. Soon after, under some feehng of the Lord's power, I rose with these words, 'At the close of the solemn supplication which we have just heard, my heart said, even so. Lord Jesus ! amen, and amen ! ' My mind was brought into 1823.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 359 tenderness^ and I believe many were affected. Several Friends spoke in ministry, and also in prayer. It was a good meeting. I joined the marriage company in the afternoon; there was a time of relicnous retirement, in which divine favour was felt, and, in taking leave of dear Katherine and her husband, I said, ' Truly the Lord has been with you to-day ; may you henceforth set up your banner in His name.' Eighth Month 14^^/^.— Eifth-day. I have been so much hindered this week from proceeding with several objects which claim attention, that I had thought of staying in my study all day to work at them. I was not, however, easy to omit the committee on J. J. Gurne/s book, and I also felt a httle draught of love to sit with Friends of Tottenham in their meeting this morning. I accord- ingly walked there after breakfast, and had a sweet comfortable meeting, in which encouragement was offered to those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. We afterwards proceeded very satisfactorily with the work. I felt in my place, and was favoured with a Httle of my Divine Master's sweet peace, wliich is more than aU the world to my soul. It was past nine o'clock when I returned home, so I only sent a message to my mother, instead of calHng. 27 ^A. — The ancient Christians were in the practice of fasting; and our Lord liimself, in speaking of the great difficulty in some cases of casting out devils, said, ' This kind goeth not out, but by prayer and fasting.' TVe may regard this passage as apphcable to self-denial, which is too little thought of in the present day, and I have often felt that its importance should be early inculcated upon children; how many, for want of this virtue, have been carried away by their passions, and utterly ruined. It is self-denial which keeps the passions in check; when we do anything contrary to our inclinations, from a sense of duty, we should do it as for Jesus' sake, and, in thus acting, we should experience his peace." In writing to his beloved friend Stephen Grellet, on the 1st of Ninth Month, William Allen says — "I now Hve entirely at Stoke Newington, and have taken a little estate in Red Lion Lane, leading to the New River, where I 360 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1823. have built stables, a cottage for the coachman and his family, and another for a schooL I am occupied in experiments in agriculture, calculated to find out the means of subsistence for a poor man and his family, on two acres of land, and am corresponding with persons of experience in different parts of the country, on the best appropriation of the land^ and the best plan for cottages. I have obtained much valuable information in this way. Basil Papof is nicely recovered in health. I had a sweet letter from him just before his departure ; it contained an extract of a letter from Prince Grahtzin ;"^ they retain an affectionate remem- brance of thee. My great affliction occurring when he was in London, made it impossible for me to see so much of him as I should otherwise have done. Things are going on badly in France now. Everytliing is mystery in Spain. The subscription raised by Friends for the Greeks has reheved much misery, and been productive of an abimdant expression of gratitude; it amounts to about seven thousand pounds. An edition of the 'Thoughts on the Importance of Eehgion,' is now printed in modern Greek, and is sent off by way of Marseilles. Dear Robert Fowler is returned from Paris ; he and J. Forster have estabhshed a depot there for Friends^ books and tracts. Gaultier, of Geneva, * The following is the extract from Prince Galitzin's letter : — " Pray recall me to the remembrance and to the prayers of my good friend Mr. Allen. Beg of him sometimes to write to me, and to pray that the Lord would grant me that inward calmness and peace, which our dear friend so eminently possesses, — a calmness, without which, the will of God cannot be done in us." Basil Papof, in concluding his letter, says — " May our Lord bless you, my dear friend, and fill you with his grace, which has, hitherto, been so abundantly vouchsafed to you. Sometimes think of, and pray for, the poor infirm writer of these Hnes. I have much need of the prayers of those who are strong in the Lord, and who unre- servedly obey his will. Do not forget one who loves you as an elder brother in Jesus Christ. May his sacred name be adored throughout the universe ! May his kingdom come, his will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. This is the prayer of him who, with the most sincere affection, is Your loving, faithful, and obedient Basil Papof." 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 361 has printed a Frencli edition of the ' Brief Remarks / the style of the translation has been revised by M. Neckar. We have had a committee of the Morning Meeting on a work written by Joseph John Gurney, on the 'Pecuharities of the Society of Friends/ I think it will be a very useful book, and that thou wilt be of the same mind/' "Ninth Month 4ith. — Sent for by Earl Bathurst; conference about the Greeks. He engages to write to Sir Frederic Adam, and urge him to enquire into the distress amongst the people in the Ionian Islands. Our government has given them a refuge in the Island of Calamo, near Santa Maura. Sir F. A. is authorised to draw for tluree hundred and fifty pounds/' The case of the poor Greeks continued to occupy much of Wdliam Allen's time, the attendance of the committees being frequent, and his correspondence on this subject very extensive, and whilst thus aiding in the relief of their present exigencies, he was indefatigable in endeavouring to promote the cause of education, and to raise the standard of morals amongst them. In a letter to Jean Vlasto, at Trieste, written about this period, he says — "As we are interested in the spiritual, as well as temporal welfare of the Greeks, we have procured from the British and Foreign Bible Society, a grant of twelve New Testaments in modem Greek, and thirty-eight in ancient and modern Greek, which are sent according to the enclosed bill of ladiag." "1th. — Met Earl Bathurst by appointment at Downing Street; he received me in a very friendly manner, and said that he had desired Sir F. Adam to write to me about the distribution of the money for the Greeks. I endeavoured to impress upon the Earl the importance of binding the Greeks to us ; their wiUingness to do any thing that our government would point out, consistent with their liberties and security; stating my conviction that Russia would ultimately have all those countries, if we did not prevent the Greeks from being crushed, and that I really wished the Russians might have them, if we did 362 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. not interfere. He spoke very kindly on the subject, and I was glad to find that government was quite willing to listen to them, if they should apply for its mediation; this is important, and they must be urged to apply. We conversed also about the people of colour in the West Indies, and I begged him to write to Sir Lowry Cole, at the Mauritius, to patronize Jenkins and the schools there. I reminded him of E. J. !Fr/s application about a house for the female convicts at Yan Dieman's Land, and he assured me that he had attended to it, and sent out instructions. I expressed a desire to know what the business of education cost our govern- ment for the Ionian Islands, observing, I was aware that I might soHcit a member of parhament to move for papers, but I preferred receiving the information privately through liim; he seemed pleased, and promised to procure it for me. The whole of .this interview was very satisfactory, and, at the conclusion, he told me that if I came into Gloucestershire, where he is now going, he should be glad to see me. Ninth Month 'dth. — Meeting of the Lanark proprietors. We came to the decision that Robert Owen had materially deviated from the articles of partnership, and could no longer be considered as the manager. He was furnished with a copy of the resolution, and, according to the articles, may take a month to consider whether he will apply to arbitrators or not." The cause of this proceeding, was the dissatisfaction of the London proprietors, with the mode in which the education of the children had been conducted, — the partners being deter- mined to have it carried on upon christian principles, and W. A. afterwards adds — " My mind is quite easy in the part I have taken ; and on this ground, — if, indeed. Divine Providence has permitted me to come into this concern, to aid in preventing its becoming an infidel estabhshment, — then I must stand firm, until the matter is tried. If it goes against us, I shall have done my best, and might then withdraw, and if it is decided in our favour, I might retire with a safe conscience. 1823. J OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 863 Jsinth Month V^th. — In a conference with Owen to-day, I convinced liim that we were firm, and would do every thing in our power to prevent liim from making New Lanark an infidel establishment. J. J. Lister came in the evening. Observed many stars through my large telescope. Ilnd. — Much engaged in my study about ' Colonies at Home.' %^:th. — Attended the City Auxihary Bible Meeting, at the Egyptian Hall. It was a very large meeting. The corumittee gave me the fifth resolution. '^^th. — Staid at Newington all day ; cleared my table; posted books in the summer-house ; visited my mother. This has been a day of close application ; but my mind has, at times, been sweetly comforted in the Lord. 'iilth. — Went up to Downing Street, by appointment, to meet G. Canning. He received me very cordially, and agrees to write to Turin, to have the decree pubhshed for the relief of the Waldenses. I endeavoured to impress his mind in favour of the Greeks. Way opened for free communication on several subjects, and it was a very satisfactory interview indeed. Spent the evening at Letitia Barbauld's, to meet Bowring. 28^A. — At Gracechurch Street meeting. I spoke on the subject of the kingdom of heaven, which, our Lord said, ' cometh not with observation,' showing, that it came by prayer and dedication. In the afternoon, my mind dwelt much upon my precious child j her dear sweet spirit is often with me. What a joyful time it will be, when we meet to be no more separated ! In the evening, I went to see Elizabeth Reed, aged eighty-two, and her daughter Rachel, both invalids. We had a time of religious retirement, in which, the presence of the Lord was to be felt, comforting us together. I had to acknowledge His goodness, who, when His poor dependent servants draw nigh unto Him, condescends to draw nigh unto them. 'i^th. — Quarterly Meeting. I rose with the words, 'We preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord ; and ourselves, your servants, for Jesus' sake,' pointing to the Saviour, and enlarging upon the subject. Some other Eriends spoke in ministry, and 364 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. Harmah Kilham was sweet in prayer. It was generally acknow- ledged to be a favoured meeting, and that for discipline was quiet and satisfactory. The adjournment in the afternoon was almost wholly occupied with discussion respecting Islington school. I left the meeting with some regret before it was over ; but the coachman had been waiting in the street great part of an hour, and the evening was very unfavourable. Tenth Month A:th. — Lanark weighs upon my mind ; but I trust in the Lord that He will make way. I opened the chemical course of lectures at the hospital to-day, and,_iowards the close, gave the pupils a little extempore advice, which was well received ." After mentioning the attendance of several meetings of the committee on H. Kilham^s concern, WilHam Allen speaks of the arrival of Ann Thompson and her brother John, from Ireland, and says - " It was agreed to accept the offer of A. T., but as her brother could not say that he had a distinct concern, nothing was decided respecting him. The ground that I wish oiu* committee to take is tliis: we sit here to assist in the outfit of those who may have a right concern to visit Africa, not to take the responsibility of forming a judgment in the case. \L)th. — At H. Kilham^s committee in the afternoon. Luke Howard has been exceedingly useful in drawing uf) certificates for the party, and framing a code of rules. Very good certificates were read on behalf of Ann Thompson and her brother John, from their Monthly Meeting, in Ireland, also on behaK of Hannah Kilham and Richard Smith, from their meeting. The case of John Thompson was much considered, he having declined going unless the committee could say that they thought it right for liim. \htJi. — John Thompson sent a note to the committee, offering Ins services; this was a great relief. 20;!^. — My mind humble and tender, though in great poverty. O, that under all my trials, and temptations, and easily besetting sins, I may be enabled to lift up my heart to the Lord, to look steadily unto Him, and be more and more upon my guard against every evil propensity which has its root in pride ! In reading last 3823.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 365 evening I tliouglit that the Master was not far off. May He graciously accept my humble endeavours to honour Him before my family ! and I have, at times, felt as though He did accept them. Tenth Month 22nd. — I attended the Peel Monthly Meeting, in conjunction with other Friends appointed by the Quarterly Meeting. In the second meeting it appeared right for me to visit women Friends, which I accordingly did, Thomas Cox accom- panying me. I was led to encourage a low state, and to remind mothers of the importance of their station. 2Srd. — Spent some time preparing books for the visitors of a district association, wliich we are about to estabhsh : arranged to have eight districts. 24^th. — Meeting. Dorcas Coventry spoke in ministry ; short and sweet. I afterwards rose, beginning with the words, ' Built * William Allen always retained a lively interest in this Association, to which he was appointed treasurer, and for some time continued to act as secretary. The plans first laid down have been steadily pursued for twenty- three years, in which time the Society has been considerably enlarged, and has not only been the means of extensive usefulness in distributing its own funds, but has proved an excellent medium for dispensing those of other charities. 368 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1823. upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone.' Twelfth Month V^th. — Monthly Meeting; the business was conducted remarkably well. Ylth. — Robert Owen almost persecutes me to join in his plan at Motherwell, but his known opinions on the subject of rehgion forbid. \ Z\st. — Sweet spiritual refreshment at meeting. I have been thinking latel}, that we may make an inroad upon the present demoralizing system of paying agricultural labourers out of the poor's rates, by bmldiug cottages for them, and giving them some land." In replying to a friend, who had consulted him upon a point of discipline in our Religious Society, W. A. says — "In the exercise of our disciphne, in Monthly Meetings, I have longed that we might come more and more under the feeling of the Lord's power, which first raised us up as a people, to bear testimony to Christianity in its primitive purity ; we should then, while contending earnestly for the faith once dehvered to the saints, do it under the influence of the spirit of love." About the same date, he addressed a letter to Hannah Kilham, in which he says — " 1 was much comforted in hearing how thou wast supported, during the storm in the Downs. Endeavour, my dear friend, to keep thy mind stayed upon the Lord ; keep thine eye single unto Him, and then, come life, or come death, all roill he well. How sweet to feel that we have an ever present Saviour — to bring all our cares and troubles to Him ; and if this be done in faith, we may dismiss all anxiety about the issue of events, and may adopt the language — ' Inspirer and hearer of prayer, Thou keeper and guardian of thine, My all to thy covenant care I, sleeping and waking, resign. 1823.] OF. WILLIAM ALLEN. 369 If thou art my shield and my sun, The night is no darkness to me ; And fast as the moments roll on, They bring me but nearer to thee.' May this be thy happy experience ! and may the everlasting arm be round about you all ! " TO PROFESSOR PICTET. "Twelfth Month, 1823. tc I am glad to hear so good an account of the health of thy daughter, M. Vernet, and that Adele has received so much benefit from the waters of Aix. The picture thou presentest of the com- fort and happiness of thy family is truly cheering to me, and long mayest thou, my dear friend, be able to continue to present such a picture; you all know how much affection I cherish in my heart for you. You will be glad to hear that my dear Redeemer, whom I wish to love and to sen^e above all, continues to support His afflicted servant, with the secret influences of His divine love, so that I am still enabled to say in sincerity, ' Thy vrill be done/ and, at times, to look forward with a degree of joy, to the period when 'this mortal shall put on immortality,' and when I may be for ever re-united to those most dear to me, who are indeed not lost but gone before. I am much delighted at the success of my friend Vernet's school a t'instar de Fellenherg. I trust that he will be especially careful to see that the teachers do all in their power to promote rehgious sensibihty of mind in their pupils. Whilst we deplore the too successful attempts of bigotry in some quarters, to put down the spirit of investigation, and check the progress of hght and knowledge, there is, on the whole, cause of rejoicing. England contains a firm band who are dihgent in promoting the best interests of man in all countries : our British and Foreign School Society is steadily promoting education in various parts. We have formed a society, in London, to promote the Abohtion of Slavery in our Colonies; a great impression has been made upon the pubhc mind in favour of the object." VOL. II. z 370 LTPE AND COREESPONDENCE [1823. ' Marianne Vernet soon afterwards acknowledges the receipt of this letter to her father, and says — " I have read that excellent letter three times ; it has done good to my soul, as every thing does that comes from you, and I feel that you are an instrument in the Lord's hand to assist me to approach Him, and to encourage me in the christian course. My son C. is like me; if he feels cast down and discouraged, his spirits rise when he thinks of you. What a blessing it would be if God, by His Holy Spirit, would lead you to come and pass some months at Geneva ! — you would have more influence upon us all than any christian whom I have ever known. There is much good intention in our dear Geneva, and much piety and religious feehng, but we attach too much importance to the opinions of others ; simphcity is lost, and there is not enough cluistian liberty and true elevation of soul. Do, I conjure you, pray for your friend and for her children ; she desires that they may all belong to her Saviour, and be of the number of His faithful servants, but she too often dwells upon the assistance which she feels she needs, rather than seeks to take advantage of the blessings which are granted to her. Our rural school at Carra interests our cliildren much ; it seems to me that an especial blessing rests upon this institution. The principles and rehgious opinions of the master are sohd and pure ; the improvement of the children is satisfactory, and the whole establishment resembles, as much as possible, that of a respectable agricultural family. The master reads the Bible with the children, and always endeavours, even during their hours of labour, to excite and encourage their love and gratitude to the Author of all good. Adieu, my worthy friend, my prayers are often put up on your behalf, that God would grant you His choicest blessings, that He would comfort you, and give you an abundant measure of His Holy Spirit. With Him to succour us, we may traverse this valley in peace. Do not forget me in your prayers, and believe me, with deep and true attachment in Jesus Christ, our Saviour, M. Vernet, nee Pictet." 1823.] OF WILLIAM ALLBN. 371 Emilien Frossardj of Montauban, retained a very grateful recollection of William Allen's kindness to him when in England, and, in a letter expressive of regret at not hearing oftener from him, E. F. says — " I hope you will sometimes continue your advice to me. I feel a sweet satisfaction when, on opening the prospectus, or report, of a work of benevolence, I find your name at the head ; and it always seems to me to mark the course which a christian philan- thropist ought to pursue. I dehght in perusing and re-perusing the letters which I have received from you, particularly the letter written just before my departure for Manchester.* I have shed many tears over this proof of your paternal regard, and never read it without emotion. May I entreat you to continue your kindness towards one, whose steps you have guided into the paths of religion as well as science? He may have wandered, but his heart has never changed, and earnestly has he craved that the blessing of heaven might rest upon you. I know, however, that your time is not your own — it belongs to your family, which is composed of the poor and needy, and of all whose aching hearts seek for comfort. The remembrance of the opportunities of improvement I have had with you, and above all, the recollection of your example, fills me with ardent desires to be useful to my fellow creatures." Many " strangers in a strange land," and many a solitary and weary pilgrim, not only found a home and a welcome at the house of WiDiam Allen, but that kindness and christian sym- pathy which, whilst they soothed the sorrows of the mourner, tended also to heighten the enjoyment of the prosperous, and to call forth the best feelings of all. A person from Sweden, who had been spending some time in London, and had set out on his return to his native land, describes the eflfect upon his own mind in the following words : — * See Vol. I, page 336. z 2 372 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE, &C. [1823. ''I cannot end a letter to you, my dear sir, without repeating my high sense of your most kind and affectionate behaviour to me, who came to you as a stranger. May I, by serving others, and adding my mite in the cause of humanity, prove myself in some measure worthy of it. Tour's is the happy lot of a life of continual goodness and benevolence, and you have the respects and blessings of all. All who come near you feel themselves better when with you, and never go away without a good bias — so was the case with me." CHAPTER XX. ]^824. — Visit to Lanark — Recommences Lectures — Correspondence- Yearly Meeting — Death of Sir C. Macarthy — Visit to Nortliamptonsliire — Establishment of the School at Stoke Newington — Committee on Greek Refugees — Bible Society, &c. iu Russia — Death of John Thompson and Richard Smith — Journey to Ipswich and Needham. "First Month 1st, 1824. — Rose before six ; aspirations ascended to the God of all grace and consolation, for His divine aid and pro- tection. The year that is passed has been marked by deep tribula- tion ; with exquisite and inexpressible anguish, in the loss of my only, and most tenderly beloved child, — yet it is some mitigation of my sorrow that a tender shoot from that blessed stock, has been permitted, so far, to thrive. What events may mark the present year, I must leave ; but O, Thou ! who hast mercifully been with me aU my life long, in heights and in depths, forsake me not at last, God of ray salvation ! but grant that I may know more and more of a union and communion with thy beloved Son, the Lamb immaculate, and witness the efficacy of his precious blood in cleansing me from all sin. O, be pleased to enable me to con- secrate to thy service, whatever portion of my life may remain, and make me instrumental ia thy hand in drawing souls to thee ! that when thou art pleased to say, ' It is enough,' I may be permitted to jom my beloved child, with my dearest Mary and Charlotte, among those who are raising the eternal Hallelujah ! " On the 2nd of this month, Wilham Allen set out in company with his friend Joseph Foster, to visit the mills at New Lanark, where, in conjunction with Michael Gibbs and Charles Walker, they were determined to enforce the regulations respecting the christian education of the children. They spent first-day at the 374 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1824. Friends' school at Ackworth, and were cordially received by the superintendent and his wife, Robert and Hannah Whittaker, who are mentioned as singularly qualified for the situation which they held. On being introduced to their daughter Mary, he says^ " I was much affected ; it reminded me strongly of what I had lost. O, my blessed and ever-beloved child ! though thy father bows in reverent submission to the dispensation which has deprived him of thy bodily presence, he must continue to sorrow for thee, until he arrive at the confines of his grave ! I was engaged in ministry, both m the morning and afternoon meeting, and felt peace. The children presented a fine sight, and conducted themselves remarkably weU. In a time of rehgious retirement after dinner, I was led to address the officers of this large institution in an encouraging manner. The reading of the Scriptures in the evening was conducted very agreeably, aiid in the pause afterwards, I addressed the children." The next day, William Allen and Joseph Foster proceeded to Darlington, where they attended the Quarterly Meeting. W. A. mentions being kindly received by his friends ; though at times much depressed, he was enabled to advocate the cause of his Divine Master, both in the meeting and in private companies, and also enjoyed some social intercourse. Fifth-day, they went to Joseph Head^s, at Carlisle, where they again met with much kindness, and the following day, in company with George Head and his sister Ann Crosfield, they paid an interesting visit to the Friends' school at Wigton. First-day, the 11th, they attended Glasgow meeting, where W. A. says — " X was helped, I trust, to preach the gospel." After arriving at New Lanark, they went over the concern, and found things in good order, exce])ting in the schools, where there was great want of subordination and proper instruction. The Loudon proprietors had, however, provided a well-trained master from the Borough Road, and completely carried their 1824.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 375 point on the very important subject of the education of the children, as well as with regard to some other arrangements calculated to benefit the population, and to promote the rehgious improvement of all classes. When this was accomplished, W. A. says — " My mind was much reheved ; T beheve that through the whole of this deeply trying and exercising business, divine support has been near." He lamented the waste of time spent in conversation with R. 0., which generally proved very unsatisfactory, and he observes — " Though the family are very kind, yet, the one thing is wanting." In parting with the two young Owens, he reminded them that the time would come to each of them, when they would find that religion was no fiction, but a solemn reahty. There was a public meeting with the work-people, which proved satisfactory, and was felt to be a solemn time. They afterwards presented an address expressive of their attachment, and when W. A. had taken leave of them, and of the family at Braxfield, he says — " I now feel peaceful. Robert Owen once more pressed me to subscribe to Motherwell, but I finally declined." In returning home he staid first-day at Edinburgh, where he was at the morning and afternoon meetings, and spent a satisfactory evening at John T. Wigham's, in company with several of the young students. Second-day, the 26th, he visited the Friends at Hawick, with whom he had a religious opportunity, in which his mind was much relieved. Proceeding from thence to Liverpool, he attend- ed meeting there on fifth-day, and -was engaged in ministry, under a humble trust that he was graciously helped to preach the truth. He reached Stoke Newington late on sLxth-day night, and on seventh-day, the 31st, writes — 376 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1824. "I went over to Edward Harris's to see the precious cliild. Dear Isabella and her husband have acted the part of parents to him. Second Month 1th. — To Downing Street, to wait upon G. Can- ning by appointment; my business was the case of the Greek captives, and to know whether our government would try to negociate with the Turkish government for their release. Canning listened very attentively to what I said, and desired me to write a letter to him upon the subject, wliich he promises to dispatch to Constantinople, and inform me of the result. He agrees with me that no public subscription ought to be raised expressly for the captives, lest a knowledge of it by the Turks should enhance their demands. He seemed interested about Lanark, and I told him how we had arranged- respecting Owen. Wth. — Called at the Foreign Office, Downing Street, in conse- quence of a note from Lord Trancis Conyngham, stating that G. Canning wished me to see some communications which had been made to government; I found that it was on the subject of the Waldenses, and that leave was obtained from the Sardinian government for them to build an hospital, 13^;/^. — The School Committee at the Borough Road is to be held to-day, and I rarely am absent, but really I cannot get through what it is my duty to do without staying here all day. I have to write the letter to Canning about the Greeks, to finish the letter to Peel about the British and Toreign School Society, also to write a note to Earl Bathurst, a letter to Turin, and to consider about the Greek report. \^th. — Went up to Earl Bathurst's office, and had a conference with liim. He says, that Sir Erederick Adam is appointed Lord High Commissioner instead of Sir Thomas Maitland deceased, and he added, smiling, ' I have appointed your friend Sir Patrick Ross in the place of Sir Frederick.' We spoke of Hannah Kilham, and of schools in the Ionian Islands, and he quite promises to support me in the attempt to introduce them. I must now corres- pond with Sir E. Adam, Pohti, &c. ^\st. — The second series of my morning lectures began to-day. Attended a committee at the Duke of Gloucester's on the sub- 1824.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 877 ject of Slavery. The present is a momentous crisis. My wish is that we should not concede too much, as I beUeve we have the country strongly with us, but, at the same time, I am desirous that we should go hand in hand with ministers, if possible." About this time, his brother, Joseph Allen, was engaged in having meetings appointed for divine worship, in the neighbour- hood of London. On some of these occasions William Allen accompanied him, and he says — " I feel in my place in thus endeavouring to hold up my dear brother's hands. Third Month \st. — J. Bowring and the two Greek deputies, Luriottis and Orlando, of Hydra, dined with me ; it was a very interesting visit, and we conversed on some important points. I must obtain for them the Scripture Lessons in modem Greek, and also send some seeds of useful vegetables, with agricultural information. %nd. — My mind was turned to the Lord, during the intervals of waking in the night, with prayers that He would make me thoroughly His, and bless those who are dearest to me. 4M. — Was at a meeting at the City of London Tavern, to form a society for attending to cases of shipwreck on our coasts, &c. 5M. — Attended the committee of the African Instruction Society, at John Sanderson's; it was large and satisfactory. A begimiing is made at Bathurst, in a school for about thirty children. 16//*. — Eose at six; my mind comforted in the Lord, and these words of the Psalmist were brought to my remembrance, ' Lord, truly I am thy servant ; I am thy servant and the sou of thine handmaid : thou hast loosed my bonds.* ^K>rd. — To the Committee of the African Institution; heard that our Secretary, Thomas Harrison, died on fii'st-day, of gout iu his stomach. He is a great loss to the cause." After mentioning the Quarterly Meeting on the 30th, and the adjournment on the 31st, W. A. writes — " I was sensible of the sweet influence of the love of God in the meeting, and it abode with me during the day ; blessed be the 378 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1824. name of the Lord. I felt peace in having endeavoured to advocate His cause in the great congregation." He often alludes to the state of his family circle at this time, as being very depressing to his spirits. His sister-in-law, Anna Hanbury, who resided with him, was very much deprived of the use of her faculties by paralysis, and his dear aged mother was suffering under the same malady. On the 33rd of Fourth Month, he thus writes to John Venning, then residing at Petersburg : — " I have to acknowledge, with reverent thankfulness, that my mind continues to be mercifully supported by the sweet feehng, at times, of the love and presence of my Saviour, though I have lost that which constituted my greatest outward comfort, and other props are failing. My constant prayer is, that my dear Lord and Master would, from day to day, grant me a knowledge of His will, and by His grace and good spirit, enable me to perform it." In addressing the Princess Sophia Mestchersky, whose sympathy in his late deep af&iction WiUiam Allen had sensibly felt, he says — " My Dear Priend, "I take advantage of the return of my friend John Venning's son, to assure thee of the continuance of that christian love and regard which I felt for thee when at Petersburg, and which I trust will continue undiminished to the end of my days. , It is a very consoling reflection, that if we keep near to our Divine Master, striving to abide in Him, we shaU, in Him, have fellowship one with another, however widely separated we may be, and we shall also feel unity of "spirit with those who are gone before, and are asleep in Jesus. These are great privileges, my friend ; may we become more and more sensible of them. O, how does a little of the Saviour's presence strengthen us to bear aU that He permits to befal us ! this it is which has enabled me to say, ' Thy wiU be done,' when enduring privations the most trying to human nature. The last affliction was like drinking the dregs of the cup ; in my beloved chUd, I seem at times, to have lost all ; but why should I dwell upon my loss, when I have the fuUest conviction that her 1824.] O^ WILLIAM ALLEN. 379 dear spirit is beholding, and will for ever behold, the face of our Redeemer ? Yet a few more struggles — yet a little more suffering, and I trust that, tlirough the merits of Him who died for us, we shall meet, never more to be separated/' In alluding to the Emperor of Russia, &c., W. A. says — " Surely mercy and goodness Tiave followed him ; and O, saith my soul, that they may continue to follow him to the end ! the dangers, which any person in his situation has to encounter, are such, that every part of the spiritual armour is needed. On my return from the journey to Vienna and Verona, I visited several pious persons in Switzerland, and had religious meetings in divers places, and I could say with Peter, ' Of a truth, I perceive, that God is no respecter of persons : but in every nation, he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him.' Some of these occasions were times of refresliing from a sense of the love and presence of the Lord, and truly there is nothing that unites our hearts more strongly to each other, than a feeling of the love of God in Christ Jesus; this is 'the brook in the way,' which, when we are favoured to drink of it, enables us to ' lift up the head.' I am desirous for thee, my dear friend, and for myself, that we may guard against too much anxiety about the future, either as regards ourselves, or those with whom we are connected. Let us endeavour, in humility, to follow the leadings of divine grace, from day to day, and endeavour to avoid those things, which, we find by experience, rob us of our peace." "Fifth Month hth. — Attended the great annual meeting of the Bible Society. Earl Roden, an Lish peer, made a very impressive speech. Dr. Morrison, who had been seventeen years in translating the Bible into the Chinese language, now exhibited a complete copy. There were many speakers, and it was one of the most satisfactory Bible meetings I ever attended. %th. — Engaged about Lecesne, Escoffery, and Nonville, three men of colour, arbitrarily sent out of Jamaica. nth. — On this day twelve months I lost my tenderly beloved child, and my prospects of earthly comfort were thus covered with 380 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1824;. a thick cloud ; but who shall say to Omniscience, ' What doest thou?' May humble submission be granted me, and that I may experience resignation, until my release come ! Yearly Meeting of Ministers and Elders. In the afternoon, Thomas Shillitoe mentioned his concern to pay a rehgious visit to Berlin, Petersburg, &c, A certificate was ordered. Fifb '. Month Y^th. — Elizabeth Robson's prospect of rehgious service in North America, was brought before the meeting, and after a time of deep feeling and consideration, much unity and sympathy were expressed. The meetmg was closed with solemn prayer, which seemed as a seal to the whole.^' The preceding week, William Allen received the intelligence of the decease of his valued friend, John Walker, of Arno's Grove, and, on this day, went to join the family in attending the interment at Winchmore Hill. He mentions feeling very low in going to this spot, where the remains of what had constituted his greatest earthly com >rt were deposited, but he was mercifully sustained, and, with some Vther Friends, was engaged in ministry. " ^^tk. — My spirits low. I feel inclined to draw in, and spare myself more ; to work in private, instead of in public. I have been stripped and left in a remarkable manner. Yearly Meeting at ten. This sitting was a very remarkable one. The testimony on behalf of my dear child was read, and had a baptizing effect upon the meeting; very many were affected as well as myself, but amidst all my sorrow there was a heavenly feehng. The testimonies respecting Frederick Smith and Mary Dudley were also read, and were very impressive. In the afternoon the answers to the queries were finished, and a solemn pause ensued, that Friends might have an opportunity to speak on the state of society. Some subjects were weightily before me, but having been so much broken down in the morning, I was doubtful how I should get through ; however, after several had spoken, I rose, and was favoured pretty mueh to reheve my mind. I urged Friends to encourage religious sensibility, where- ever it appeared, particularly in the youth, whom I addressed. 1824.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 381 entreating them to feel after the Lord, in retirement^ and to read the Holy Scriptures, also the journals of our Friends ; observing, that when these writings were read in a proper disposition, there was an unction in them which would preserve from a dry, formal state. I understand, that when the testimony was read in the women's meeting, it produced a great effect. M. P. said it reminded her of the text, 'And the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.' " After noticing the proceedings of the Yearly Meeting, W. A. says at the conclusion — ''There was a precious and holy feeling, under which the meeting closed. Siccth Month Znd. — Meeting ; several present besides our own Members; I was contrited with the communication of the dear Priend who sat next to me. He spoke of a state in the prison house, and alluded to the deliverance of Peter, saying, ' When the hght shineth about thee, and thou art smitten on the side, then arise, thy chains will fall off; gird thyself and bind on thy sandals, cast thy garment about thee, and follow where thou art led.' There was unction in the words, and they felt inwardly apphed to my state. This is the sixth meeting, in succession, at which I have been quite silent. Qtk. — My spirits are better. The watch-word with me must be to endeavour, constantly, to keep as near the Source of good as possible ; if no sensible enjoyment can be felt, then to lie prostrate at the footstool of my God, to avoid every thing which tends to aHenate, and to embrace all seasonable opportunities for bringing others nearer to ffim. Meeting. I spoke for a short time on these words, ' Wait on the Lord, be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart ; wait, I say, on the Lord.' I had also to offer a little comfort to the mourners in Zion. In the evening I went with my brother Joseph to attend a meeting appointed at his request, at Enfield. It was a quiet, satisfactory meeting. No one spoke in ministry but my brother, except that, at the close, I gave a parting salutation. 382 LIFE AND COERESPONDENCE [1824. Sixth Month 1th. — I went to the Preeinason's Tavern to attend the first meeting of the Infant Scliool Society. Wth. — Went up to the horticultural rooms, Regent Street, to attend a committee of the British and Irish Ladies' Society, and a most gratifying meeting it was ; only five or six gentlemen were present. It seems that much good has been done, and thousands of families have been relieved, by having work supphed by this society. The plan is to assist the poor to help themselves ; loans with security, have proved very useful, and there are cases in which whole families have been supported by means of the sources of industry furnished to the females : the men, though wiUing to work, have no employment. What an opening for my plan of Colonies at Home. The report was a very good oue, and contained some excellent remarks. l^th. — Called at Sir George Rose's, Old Palace Yard, about a subscription for a building to accommodate three thousand persons at pubhc meetings. I engaged to subscribe in order to promote the object. \Wi. — Meeting. Peehng much for the state of some present, T was led to speak on the words, ' By grace are ye saved, through faith ; and that not of yourselves ; it is the gift of God.' 1 had to shew the difference between the Redeemer's kingdom, and the kingdom of this world, and also to encourage those young people who had given proof that they were on the Lord's side. The meeting was concluded with supplication. 21*^. — Went up to Stratton Street, to wait upon the Earl of Chichester ; he received me very kindly, and I mentioned to him my prospect of procuring some land at Lindfield, for the estabhsh- ment of a School of Industry. I also explained to him the nature of the British system, and our plans with regard to religious instruction. He promised to assist in the undertaking, and consented to become the patron." Some time previous to this period, rumours had reached England of the death of Sir Charles Macarthy, and William Allen writes — 1824.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 383 " This day I received letters from Sierra Leone with the confir- mation of the afflicting intelligence respecting Governor Macarthy, who was cruelly killed by the Ashantees, near the Gold Coast, on the 21st of First Month last ; poor T. S, Buckle also fell beside him, and several other distinguished Europeans. "What a loss for Africa ! The letters are from Gabbidon, H, Weston, and D. M. Hamilton, now acting governor till another can be sent out. The former says, ' It is with deep regret, and very sincere sorrow, that I announce the most lamentable and melancholy occurrence which has befallen this unfortunate colony — the death of our well-beloved and esteemed governor. Sir Charles Macarthy. The loss of this valuable man, I am afraid, can never be replaced in Africa. England has lost a son ; Africa has lost a father. The name of Macarthy will be remembered as long as Sierra Leone endures ; the prop of the colony is gone, and what will become of us, heaven only knows ! ' " The other letters are in the same strain of deep sorrow. *' Sixth Month 2Srd. — ^Anti-Slavery committee. — A capital report. 25th. — Attended the first public meeting of the Anti-Slavery Society, The report was well read by Wilberforce's son. Elliot moved the first resolution, wliich was seconded by James Stephen. Baptist Noel, a fine young man, moved the second resolution, and this was seconded by Thomas B. Macaulay, son of Zachary Macaulay, who made one of the most splendid and eloquent speeches that I ever heard. What cause of thankfulness, to see such young men raised up to supply the places of those who are going ofi" the stage ! He finished amidst great applause. There were some other good and impressive speeches.^' 2?)th, — -Wilhara Allen, in company with Peter Bedford, went into Northamptonshire, under an appointment of the Yearly Meeting, and, together with other Friends who met them at Wellingborough, visited some of the meetings in that quarter, and also many families. The services in which the committee were engaged were arduous, and at times W. A. mentions being 384! LIFE KSB CORRESPONDENCE [1824. under mucli exercise of mind ; he was, however, comforted in the humble hope, and indeed confidence, that he was engaged in his Divine Master's work ; and in speaking of the Quarterly- Meeting, held at Northampton, he says — ''It would have been well worth while to have taken the journey, if it had only been to attend this meeting. The power of the Lord was felt to be over all. In the second meeting we were favoured to be of some use, and it was very satisfactory. We felt the sweet reward of peace in our efforts to promote the cause of truth, and Friends seemed pleased and comforted with our visit." In passing through Olney, he went to see the former residence of the Poet Cowper, which, he says, is a good deal dilapidated. He reached home the 2nd of Seventh Month, and the following first-day attended Tottenham meeting, where he mentions speaking in ministry on the occupation of the talents, querying of each individual, what he could say at the great day when called to give an account of his Lord's money. "Seventh Month %th. — My mind was stayed upon the Lord, and humbly thankful for a cessation from some mental conflicts. My prayer is, that He would be pleased to refine me more fully for his work and service, and preserve me to the end. 10^^. — Interview with Earl Bathurst about schools in Corfu, and the Greek Scripture Lessons. He seems quite disposed to promote the printing of them, and will authorise Sir Frederick Adam to order and pay for a certain number. \'ith. — Committee on Slave Trade at three o'clock. Josiah Forster gave an interesting account of his late journey to Paris and Nantes. Tea at my cousin G. Birkbeck's. District committee afterwards. Agreed to supply the poor with medicines and advice. \^th. — Skeyue, a teacher of German, on the HamUtonian plan, came for the first time, and we formed a class, to meet here at seven o'clock in the morning, twice a week. 1824.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 385 Seventh Month \Uh. — Comforted in the feeling of good desires, and, as they do not arise from ourselves, I humbly take them as an evidence of divine regard. Meeting ; I spoke of the impor- tance of perseverance in prayer. 20 2^/^. — Major General Turner, who is going out Governor to Sierra Leone, dined with me ; he entered into all my views respecting the civihzation of Africa — deems it impohtic to fight with the natives, and is earnest that they should be brought to cultivate land. A very satisfactory visit." On the 22nd, after lodging at Brighton, William Allen went over to Lindiield, to procure some land for the establishment of a School of Industry. He called upon several of the inhabi- tants to explain his views to them ; he says he was generally well received, but adds — "The people here are half a century behind some other places in intelligence." He met with what he thought would be an eligible piece of ground for his under- taking, and was helped in his arrangements by an excellent old man, Stephen Wood, who warmly entered into plans for pro- moting the welfare of the labouring classes, and subsequently proved a very efficient eo-adjutor. The following day W. A. returned to Brighton, and attended a meeting which was ap- pointed through the influence of Elizabeth Joseph Fiy, for the purpose of forming a District Visiting Society, and dividing the town into districts. After returning home the next day, he writes — ^" A very satisfactory and important journey." Whilst William Allen devoted so much time and energy to the great object of his benevolent interest, — the instruction of poor children of all countries, and of all creeds ; he was deeply impressed with a sense of the importance of giving also to the youth, whose circumstances in life rendered their access to the paths of learning comparatively easy, a liberal and religious education. He was particularly solicitous that the members of the Society of Friends might be encouraged to place their children within the sphere of an enlarged and enlightened system of VOL. II. 2a- OQ 86 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1824. study. He dwelt, with christian solicitude, on the desirableness, not only of giving to the rising generation a competent know- ledge of scientific and classical literature, but more especially of endeavouring to prepare their tender and susceptible minds for the reception of those principles of divine truth, by which the humble spirit is imbued with the wisdom that cometh from above. A female Friend, who had for many years been anxious that these important objects shoidd be combined in the education of youth, opened a boarding school for girls at Stoke Ne wing- ton, in the autumn of this year. Another object, connected with such an institution, had for a considerable time been much desired by William Allen, viz., that young persons, whose talents might indicate a fitness for instructing and directing the minds of children, as teachers, either in private families, or in schools, should have an opportunity of acquiring, at moderate expense, a competent knowledge of the ancient and modern languages, and of the other branches of a liberal education. Several young persons were, from time to time, admitted into the school at Stoke Newington, who were prepared to become teachers. Wilham Allen gave to this institution the most cordial and efficient support ; and several other Friends, who were religiously concerned for the right training of youth, co-operated v/ith his fatherly efforts to patronize the establishment, and to promote the temporal and spiritual welfare of its inmates. Notwithstanding that William Allen was pursuing, with zeal, that course of active benevolence which characterized his life, and was still engaged in delivering lectures to the medical students at Guy's Hospital, at least twice in the week ; he gen- erally contrived, in addition to the family Scripture reading on first-days, to devote, at least, two evenings in the week to the improvement of the pupils of this school. On one of them he gave the encouragement and stimulus, which his company and his deep religious interest afforded, to a reading meeting, regu- larly held for the christian instruction of all branches of tiie XS24.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 387 household, and on another he went through a course of lectures, which he annually repeated, on mechanics, chemistry, and natural and experimental philosophy. He spared no pains to make these lectures an efficient channel of conveying information to the minds of his juvenile auditors, always endeavouring to bring the subjects of his discourse within the sphere of their compre- hension, by famihar explanations, and by a variety of experi- ments with his extensive and valuable apparatus. Very earnest were his desires that the inmates of this institution might prosper in every good word and work, and that the blessing of divine peace might rest upon them ; they, in return, cherished towards him a grateful attachment, and many who have passed the boundaries of youth, and some who have attained the meridian of life, can recur to the deeply interesting lessons which he imparted — to his christian admonitions and fatherly care, — as among the special privileges of their earlier days. Eighth Month ^th. — William Allen records attendance of the committee for the relief of the suffering and captive Greeks, and the remittance of the sum of six hundred and fifty pounds for the assistance of those then located at Constantinople, Smyrna, Ancona, Odessa, &c. ; and, on the 12th, he mentions, that the committee received, from Jean Vlasto, of Trieste, a letter of acknowledgement of three hundred pounds, which had been sent for distribution amongst the destitute inhabitants of those islands of the Archipelago, which had been wasted by the Turks. l^th. — W. A, alludes to the return of Hannah Kilham from Africa, accompanied by Ann Thompson ; but says — "The committee who met on H. Kilham^s concern at Plough Court, were much affected at the circumstance of John Thompson's decease, which occurred on his passage home. A very able state- ment of the proceedings of these Friends, during their late visit to Africa, which had been drawn up by Ann Thompson, was read and put upon the minutes.''' \^th. — W. A. proceeds with the details of the persecution, commenced by the ruhng ecclesiastics, in Russia, against the 2 A 2 388 LIFE AS-D COUEESPONDENCE [1824. supporters of the Bible Society, particularly against Liudell, Gossner, Prince Alexander Galitzin, and Papof : — ^' The two latter," he says, "have both resigned their places : and the society is now in the hands of the clergy, with Seraplnn^ the Metropolitan, at the head. Thus the clouds are there very dense ; but I expected it, even when I was i)i Eussia. MgJitli Month ^Wi. — I yesterday received an important letter from Daniel Wheeler, from Petersburg, which speaks volumes. It appears that the high church ptu-ty there triumph, and are even stronger than the Emperor ; that he was, with reluctance, made to sign the order for the banishment of Gossncr. D. W. has been interrogated about me, but the ruling party seemed satisfied that my object was improvement in prisons, &c. ; but they are very suspicious of dear Stephen Grellet, inquiring whether he talked of politics, &c. NhiiU Month %rcl. — H. Kilham's committee : she afterwards dined with me, and we had much interesting conversation about Africa.'' On the 30th, a further entry occurs of various remittances for the oppressed Greeks, scattered in different parts of Turkey, Italy, and France, and it concludes v.ith the notice of the report. W. A. alludes again to the relief still dispensed at several succeeding meetings of the committee, the labours of which continued to occupy much of his time and exertions. On Tenth Month 3rd, W. A. says— " I dined at P. Bedford's with Samuel Seebohm, who is about to settle at Magdebuj-g, as a physician. I was preciously sensible of the Lord's good presence, in a time of silence; and I felt drawn to address him on that text, ''When Thou saidst, seek ye my face, my heart said, Thy face, Lortl, Avill I seek.' ^Vhen under temp- tation from the enemy within, and from causes for anxiety without, it is sweet to feel that the mind can repose upon the Lord ; a degree of this was experienced on awaking in the night. Self-denial, — that great duty of a christian, — I have been a little comforted in believing that I do, to a considerable extent, practise it. 1S24.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 389 Tenth Month 1th. — D. B. Hanbury's marriage, — a memorable day. My prayer was put up that the great Master would con- descend to be with us. The meeting began at eleven ; it had not commenced many minutes before I felt that the Lord, by His good presence, was with us indeed ; and a solemn meeting we had. I was engaged, in testimony, to set forth the love of God in Clirist Jesus; E. J. Fry supplicated sweetly; my spirit was greatly tendered, blessed for ever be the adorable name of Him whom we love, and desire, more and more perfectly, to serve. Dear Daniel and Rachel spoke with much propriety and solemnity; everything during the day, was well conducted, and after tea we had a religious opportunity : our beloved friends E. J. Fry and E. Christy were engaged in testimony, and CorneHus Hanbury in prayer, and last of all I addressed the company. ^th. — A letter was brought to me which had been addressed to Hannah Kilham, from the Gambia, conveying the sorrowful intel- hgence of the decease of Eichard Smith, after an illness of eight days, occasioned, as it appears, from too great exertion in ploughing during the periodical rains. This is a great loss to Africa." On the 27th of Eleventh Month, W. A. notices the distress of the inhabitants of some parts of Germany, in consequence of the inundations of the Ehiue, and that he was engaged, with some other benevolent persons, in raising a subscription for their relief, which proved very helpful. Twelfth Month \6th. — Finished the first course of his hospital lectures for this season — the second was immediately commenced. On the 20th, W. A. sa^s— "At the committee of the Bible Society, at Earl Street, Dr. Thorp proposed, and Henry Drummond seconded the proposition, that the society should not advance any money towards assisting in printing the Bible, whenever the Apocrypha was included : this, however, was put aside, by introducing another motion, that none of the funds of the society should be expended in printing the Apocrypha. I set off at haK-past six the same evening for Ipswich, to attend the Quarterly Meeting there. Our dear friends, Mary 390 LIFE AND COmiESPONDENCE [1824. Marriage, of Chelmsford, and Joseph John Gumey, of Norwich, were also there ; the latter on a religious visit. The Lord gave us a comfortable time. J. J. Gurney was engaged first, in supplication, ■with, I thought, a good savour of life; then, feeling that which appeared safe to venture upon, I stood up with this subject, ' No man can come unto me, except the Eather who hath sent me draw him, and I will raise him up at the last day ; ' it felt to me as if the life accompanied. After this, M. Marriage was acceptably engaged in testimony. I made some remarks in the second meeting, which brought peace. Dined at R. D. Alexander's. In the evening, R. D. A. took J. J. Gumey and me to Thomas Clarkson's, where we unexpectedly had a religious opportunity, in which I had to express my feehngs of christian interest on behalf of those present. I lodged at Dykes Alexander's, where I was most kindly entertained." On the following day, the 22nd, W. A. proceeded, in company with several Friends, to Needham, in order to attend the inter- ment of Samuel Alexander. After describing, at some length, the different engagements of Friends in the ministry, he adds — "There was a precious degree of solemnity to be felt, both in the meeting and at the grave. The crowd was great, but good order was preser\-ed. The shops in the town were shut up ; our dear deceased friend had been much respected, and considered as the father of the place. I feel peaceful in mind in the retrospect of this day." Twelfth Month 2Srd. — W. A. attended the week-day meeting at Ipswich, and a public meeting held in the evening, at the request of Joseph John Gurney, in which he says, " A heavenly solemnity prevailed." On returning honie the next day, he writes — "I feel that I have been in the way of my duty, and have abundant cause to be thankful that I took this journey. 1824.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 891 Twelfth Month 29^A.— We had a committee at Plough Court, to provide a fund for educating, at the Borough Eoad School, some Greek lads, brought over to this country by Captain Blaquierc. I afterwards accompanied Robert Forster to the Anti-Slavery Committee." On the last day of the year, W. A. says — "Rose at five; my mind was contrited before the Lord, in fervent prayer for his blessing and preservation. In reviewing the year, I can perceive that my dear mother's faculties gradually decline, yet she still enjoys my visits, which are almost daily. My dear sister Anna Hanbury is also dechning, but she is sweet and tranquil in spirit." ^CHAPTER XXI. 1825— 1826.— Schools for the Poor at Stoke Newington— African Institution —Return of D. Wheeler and T. Shillitoe from Russia— Cottage Society- British and Irish Ladies' Society— Death of Professor Pictet— African Concerns— Anniversaries — Yearly Meeting — Correspondence— EstabHsh- ment of the Schools, &c. at Lindfield— Death of the Emperor of Russia — ^Visit to several Quarterly Meetings — Conclusion of Hospital Lectures — ^Visit to Ireland— Correspondence, &c. — His Marriage — Letter from Prince A. GaHtzin — From Contineas. At this part of the journal, frequent mention is made of an interesting young man from Germany, named Holtzapfel, who had been recommended to William Allen's kind notice, and who, during his residence in London for the purpose of attending to mercantile business, generally spent some days in each week at Stoke Newington, with his fatherly friend. "First Month \Uk, 1825. — H. Brougham dined with me at Plough Court, and we went over all our plans for the poor. Ihth. — Thomas Spring Rice, M.P. for Limerick, dined with me at Stoke Newington, and we had much conversation about plans for bettering the condition of the poor. Surely something may be done for L-eland." W. Allen's engagements at Lindfield often required his atten- tion there, and sometimes led him to visit Brighton ; whilst at this place, on the 19th, he says — tc 'I took tea with Agatha and Elizabeth Barclay, at Regency Square, where I met dear E. J. Ery and a large company ; the evening was spent profitably in conversation on subjects interesting to humanity. 20^)^. — Accompanied by John Glaisyer, I called on the Dean of Salisbury, and found him an agreeable man. We met E. J. 1825.] LIFE AND COllRESPONDENCB, &C. 393 Pry, and A. Barclay there, and we had some free communication on important subjects. I then went with E. J. F. and A. B. to call on Judge Bailey, who is interested in our plans for amelio- rating the condition of the poor. Afterwards I rode to Stanmer, and had a very satisfactory interview with the Earl of Chichester, and explained to him my views about Lindfield. Spent the evening at Regency Square, where a large company assembled to meet E. J. Fry. After a good deal of interesting conversation, silence was requested ; E. J. E. read the 103rd Psalm, after which I had to offer a short exhortation ; dear E. J. E. con- cluded in a sweet supplication ; it was a solemn and instructive opportunity, and we had reason to beheve it had a good effect. First Month list. — Attended the Monthly Meeting at Brighton ; many females of rank, and other strangers, were at the meeting for worsliip. I was low and fearful, but the Lord gave us a blessed time. E. J. Ery was engaged in ministry and prayer, and I was more than usually enlarged in doctrine. 22?^'DENCE [1825. in the English language^ and in tlie mathematics, algebra, &c. also in agriculture and things useful. T. S. gave me a hint that the Emperor wished me to notice him; and as the young man, if he Hves, may have great influence in Russia, and may become the instrument of extensive good, I intend to take him under my own care, and superintend his education. He is to come to me in a few days. He speaks French and German. In the evening I visited my mother, and afterwards attended the infant school committee. We have now twenty visitors. Third Month \Wi. — Eirst meeting of the Cottage Society. Earl of Chichester, President; Samuel Gurney, Treasurer. We made a good beginning. 22rath. — He writes, "Morning Meeting. My mind was tendered with a feeliag of good. Some of the MS. prepared for a new volume of 'Piety Promoted,' was read by Josiah Porster." He had, for some time, felt a desire to visit the Quarterly Meeting of Cambridge and Huntingdon, and this spring, in company with Peter Bedford, he was enabled to accomplish his purpose. He afterwards, in conjunction with some other Friends, attended, by appointment of the Yearly Meeting, the Quarterly Meeting of Northamptonshire; thence, they pro- ceeded to that for Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, which, he says, was satisfactory. In speaking of the meeting at Earith, he observes — "I was comforted in feehng that the life prevailed, and truly such a company of dear young people I have not often met with in so small a compass. Eebecca Christy was engaged in solemn supplication J this opened the way for me, and I was led to speak at considerable length in ministry. We had, afterwards, farther communication in this Hne, and I was comforted in the belief that the Lord gave us a good time. The business of the second meeting was agreeably conducted. We dined at our kind friend John Brown's, and in the afternoon proceeded on our way towards WelHngborough." Third Month 25th. — He mentions having a satisfactory reli- gious opportunity with the pupils at Thomas Christmas' s school 1826.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 409 at Godraancliester, twenty-five in number. First-day was spent at Wellingborough. " A low time to me/' he says, " though I had to engage in some gospel service. The Meeting of Ministers and Elders was held in the evening. Third Month 11th. — Quarterly Meeting for Northamptonshire ; pretty comfortable. I^ih. — ^We went to the Monthly Meeting held at Finedon, and had a precious meeting ; several present were contrited, under, I trust, the influence of the anointing ; it was a blessed time, and we afterwards went on our way rejoicing." After attending the Monthly Meeting at Northampton, the following day, the committee met, and prepared a report for the Yearly Meeting, and, on separating, felt that they were returning home " with the penny of peace." Wniiam Allen's engagements at Lindfield were becoming increasingly important. He was constantly devising plans for the benefit and improvement of his fellow creatures, and, with the aid of his friends, had established a benevolent society, which proved highly useful. Both the agricultural and school depart- ment requiring personal attention, he frequently spent some days at this place. Fourth Month 4:th. — He says, " Attended Southwark meeting : the remains of the late Anthony Sterry were brought in. The meeting was large, as he was much beloved, and was parti- cularly endeared to the poor, many of whom were present. Martha Smith was there, and spoke acceptably in ministry, as did also several other Friends. There was a great solemnity towards the close, and these words were brought to my mind, ' Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the wasliing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost.' So much had been said previously, that I was almost discouraged from repeating them, but while I was musing, and just ready to stand up, a young woman, in the body of the 410 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. meeting, rose and quoted this very text. There was such a solemnity, and the silence afterwards was so impressive, that I feared to break it. I, however, had much peace in making a short addition to what she had expressed. Fourth Month Qth. — The distress in Spitalfields is very great. I called at the soup-house, and found P. Bedford there. They have sold above six thousand quarts to-day. On our way back, we went to see Simon Bailey ; he is in the eightieth year of his age, is con- fined to his bed, and in a very loving frame of mind. I have known him as an exemplary member of our Religious Society for upwards of fifty years. \Qth. — I accompanied some Friends to Uxbridge, to attend the interment of Ann Crowley's remains. A large company followed from the house. It was a solemn meeting ; and will long be remembered by some of us, nth. — Adjourned Morning Meeting. A memorial was brought in, from Essex Quarterly Meeting, on behalf of our late valued friend, William Grover, It is a precious document, containing much of the unction. Certificates for Ann Alexander, and Hannah and Maria Middleton, (about to engage in gospel service, on the continent,) were brought in and signed by the clerk. My mind had been a little impressed, during the meeting, with a belief, that it might be right for Cornelius Hanbury to accompany them. When a consultation was held on the subject of providing a guide or care-taker, he offered himself, and I felt that I might encourage him. Several other Priends had unity with his proposal. I'dth. — Meeting, My faith was renewed, I was engaged in supplication for the tried and afflicted, and also for our dear Friends now going out upon rehgious service. In the second meeting, Comehus proposed his concern to go as a care-taker to the Friends, which was agreed to, and a minute made accordingly. Fifth Month Srd. — The Lord's people formerly, when they undertook any important concern, 'inquired of Him/ that is, they apphed for direction and guidance. But there is too little of this in the present day. We are too apt to rush into things without calmly sitting down to enquire of the Lord, and hence wc often suffer serious loss. 1826.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 411 fifth Month 1th. — ^First-day. At Lindfield. I have thought it right to institute a Reading Meeting, to be held at the schools, on first-day evening, for about an hour, and had the first this evening. There were several persons present, and I introduced the subject with a few observations, under something of a precious covering of good. I read some parts of the ' Guide to True Peace,' and the eighth chapter of Romans. We sat a short time in silence, when I again addressed the company, and we broke up." Alexander D'Junkovsky having remained at Lindfield after William Allen's departure for London, thus expresses his grateful sense of the various obligations conferred upon him by W. A. "My very dear and much esteemed friend, "" The reading of your very agreeable letter caused me a great deal, of joy; it was for me a real present. This was the first note which I ever received from you, my very dear friend, but it was not the first proof of your friendship towards me, for I experience daily your kindness and benevolence during more than thirteen months. Permit me to express my sincere thanks and gratitude for the truly paternal advice which you had the goodness to give me in your dear letter. I said, ' express,' but words cannot express my thanks and gratitude to you, I can only feel them in my heart, and pray the Almighty Creator to repay you for all your kind attention and care, which you have shown me, during so long a time ; I, who was quite a stranger to you, and who had no right to expect any regard from you, was received into your house, as if I were one of your own family." On another occasion he writes — "The present separation from you, my dearly beloved friend, has created in my mind a feeling as if I were anew separated from a dear father, and has put me in mind of a longer separation, which I must one day experience, ' in returning to my country ; these thoughts depressed me very much, but I hope that through the grace of our merciful Redeemer, I may prove worthy of your 412 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. paternal instractions, in being a little useful to some of my coun- trymen, which is my ardent desire. With due respect, and filial love, if I may use this expression, I remain. My very dear, respected friend. Your most affectionate A. D'JUNKOVSKY." "Fifth Month 10^.— Monthly Meeting. At the close of the meet- ing for worship, women Friends were requested to remain, and M. Savory returned the certificate granted to her ; she gave an account of her late journey through HoUand, to Pyrmont and Minden, then along the Khine, to Switzerland, and from thence to Conge- nies. She seemed to have been mercifully supported tlu-ough all with best help, and met with many pious persons in different places. She says, ' the fields are white already to harvest.' About five o'clock, attended the committee of the Infant School, held at the Eow ; very satisfactory. In the evening, as usual, at the reading at S. Corder's. 18^^. — At Downing Street, where I had a conference with Earl Bathurst, who was very kind and attentive. Sir Neil Camp- bell is appointed the new Governor of Sierra Leone, in the room of General Turner. With regard to education in the Ionian Isles, Earl B. referred me to Sir F. Adam, who is just arrived in England. At the hospital in the evening. My lectures there are now ended for the season. Shall I be obhged to resume them ?* " Fifth Month. — After some short notices of the Yearly Meeting W. A. writes, " My mind was a Httle refreshed and encouraged." * Por twenty-five years William Allen had been engaged in giving lectures on Chemistry and Natui-al Philosophy, to the medical and other students, at Guy's Hospital. In these lectures the subject of Astronomy came last ; and when the solar system, and what is known respecting the fixed stars, had been described, he concluded the course with an Address to the Students, the substance of which was afterwards prhited, and is now given in the Appendix to this volume. 1826.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 413 He mentions the concern of Isaac Hammer, a Friend in the station of minister, from Tennessee, North America, and says — " He is about to proceed to Germany, with a view of travelling on foot to endeavour to find out pious persons, and have inter- course with them in their famihes ; there was a sweet feehng over the meeting when he stated liis prospect. Sixth Month hth. — ^Elizabeth Hoyland left us to-day; she has been a real comfort to me by the sweetness and weightiuess of her spirit.'* Wilham Allen had a little Norwegian horse, to which he was very partial ; it had been ill for some days, and, after going to see it, he writes — " Poor Pony came up to me to be caressed ; I had hopes of his recovery, but in the evening my dear httle grandson brought me word that he was dead. I felt low at the loss of tliis poor animal ; it was a beautiful, affectionate, and useful creature ; I never had occasion to strike it with the whip in my life. I hope not to repine, but really the things which I set my affections upon are taken from me in a remarkable way. Fifth Month \Qth. — My dear Cornehus returned from the continent to-day, and thankful we were to meet one another again in peace. 23^6?. — I called upon Sir Neil Campbell to-day — found him at home, and quite willing to co-operate and to correspond. I then went on to Sir Frederick Adam, with whom I had a most interest- ing conversation about Malta and the Ionian Isles. He gives a good account of the schools, especially those in Cerigo and Cepha- lonia, but says they are wanted at Corfu." In a letter to Marianne Vernet, written for the purpose of introducing some friends of his, who were about to set out for Geneva, Wilham Allen says — 414 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE [1826. TO M. VERNET. "Near London, 1%th of Seventh Month (July), 1826. " It is a long time since I have heard from thee ; but I always enquire after thee from every person who comes to me from your city ; for, indeed, I feel a brotherly sohcitude, that our dear Lord and Saviour may continue to sustain and support thee, under all thy trials and afflictions, even unto the end. My own afflictions, both inwardly and outwardly, during the past year, have been very great ; and the depression of my spirit has, at times, been such, that I have been ready to long for a release from this earthly tabernacle ; but yet. He, whose faithful- ness fails not, — whom I desire to love above all, and to serve in the way He may be pleased to appoint, has graciously condescended to shew Himself a God mighty to save, and to cheer his poor dependent servant, at seasons, with the sweet influences of his love, in the secret of the soul. Yea, — even in the stormy time. He has appeared, as He did to the disciples of old, when He addressed them with the cheering language, — ' It is I ; be not afraid.' 0, that He may be ever near to thee, my dear friend ! Cast aU thy care upon Him, for He careth for thee. Go to Him in faith, and, with the simphcity of a httle child, with fervent prayer, that He would, from time to time, shew thee the right way, and enable thee to walk before Him with acceptance. Do read that passage in the Gospel, Matt. vi. 26. Be faithful to all that the Saviour is pleased to manifest to thee as thy duty to Him, and He will never leave thee, nor forsake thee ; but He wdU acknowledge thee as His, not only in the sight of men, but before the Father and the holy angels. Sweet is that peace, which is, at seasons, experienced by those who trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon their God. Yea, it is a blessed state to know such a conformity to the divine "will, as to be careful for nothing; but, in every thing, to give thanks." " Eighth Month '^ncl. — Meeting. Isabella Harris, of Ackworth, was there, and spoke in ministry. I felt that I had to take up 1826.] OP WILLLAJI ALLEN. 415 the words with which she concluded, viz. 'Whom have I in heaven but thee/ &c. Showing that it was only as we could, in sincerity, make this appeal, that we could pursue the path of true peace; and also quoting the language addressed to Peter, *K I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me/ I. H. acceptably concluded in sup- plication. Eighth Month Qth. — Contrited in prayer ; I ask neither for riches, nor honours, but to be shown what was acceptable in the divine sight, and to be relieved from the foes of my own house- hold, — my internal and spiritual enemies, and to be employed during the remainder of my days, as an instrument in drawing souls to the Supreme Source of all good. \hth. — I have now concluded to give up my hospital lectures to Alexander Barry, whom I have brought forward for that purpose. 20^;^. — First-day. Yisited my mother, and read to her in James Gough's Journal ; then went to the girls' school, and staid their reading, which was in John's Gospel. We had a solemn pause afterwards, and I made some remarks on what had been read. Came back to our own family reading, which was closed with the thii'd chapter of the Revelations. I afterwards addressed the servants on the importance of witnessing a growth in vital religion, referring them to the ' grace of God which briugeth salvation.' 26M. — In the night, during my waking hours, my mind was impressed with the necessity of endeavouring to keep up the watch, hour by hour, and day by day, in order to maintain a constant humble walk before the Lord. 29i!^. — I am fifty-six years old this day. May the residue of my time be devoted to the service of my great Master ! Ninth Month 2nd. — Count St. Priest, the late Governor of Cherson called; he is now a Peer of France, and resides in this comitry; he wishes to see the Borough Road school. I wrote to our Consul at Constantinople on behalf of Stephen Mavrogordato, one of the young men whom we have had educated at Colne ; gave him some religious advice on parting, which he received well." 416 LTFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. "William Allen beKeved it to be his religious duty, under a feel- ing of gospel love, to pay a visit to Ireland. After obtaining tke sanction of his friends, who expressed their unity with his prospect, he set out on the 7 th of Ninth Mouth, and writes — " Alexander D^ Junkovsky and I went to Islington, where we met dear Joseph Foster in the Manchester mail, and joined him. My mind was turned to the Lord in humble prayer, that He would have me in His holy keeping, and that none of my steps may sUde." They proceeded by way of Kendal and Carlisle to New Lanark. !Pirst-day was spent at Kendal, with their kind friends Isaac and Anna Braithwaite. W. A. mentions a large company of young per- sons being present at the reading of the Scriptures in the evening, and that, in a solemn time of religious retirement afterwards, he was led to address them, adding — " My mind, which had previously been much burdened, felt relieved and peaceful. IIM. — After the reading this morning at I. Braithwaite' s, there was a precious sense of the presence of the Lord, and though nothing was expressed, these words occurred sweetly to my mind, * We know that we have passed from death unto Kfe, because we love the brethren.' " ' On reaching Lanark, and, together with Joseph Poster, entering a Kttle into the state of the schools, &c., he remarks that a great improvement had taken place since their last \asit. From thence they went to Glasgow, where W. A. took leave of his companion, in order to proceed to Ireland. When about to embark, he writes — " I feel a little secret support and comfort in looking forward to my solemn engagement." The day after his arrival at Belfast, a Friend drove him to Antrim, the town where WiUiam Edmundson first settled ; and 1826.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. • 417 after attending the small meeting there to some comfort, and visiting two invalids, they returned in the evening. Ninth Month 'list. — He writes — "Opened my Bible, and was comforted in reading the 23rd Psalm. Attended the meeting here at ten o'clock, l^or the first hour I waded through much mental conflict, even to anguish of mind, and thought of the Lord's prophet, who, in his journey, sat down and begged to die. But the clouds in degree broke away, and I was strengthened to bear testimony to the Truth as it is in Jesus. I was, however, very low ; there is a great pressure here. ^ 22»J. — I was accompanied by two Friends to Lisburn ; the country is really fine, and the people are altogether a different race from those in the south. T was most kindly and hospitably received by James N. Richardson and his wife, and at eleven o'clock attended the meeting which had been put off till to-day to accommodate me. It was a time of searching of heart ^vitli respect to myself, but I was mercifully helped to perform the work which I believed was required of me, to the rehef of my own mind. We visited an excellent girls' school on the British system, and also the provincial school for Friends' children, which is dehght- fully situated. .23r(5?. — James N. Richardson kindly took me to Hillsborough meeting, where the presence of the Lord was with us during the silence, more than in any of the other meetings. We also had satisfactory religious opportunities in some of the families of Friends residing there, and were favoured with a fresh feeling of divine love and life, I believe to our mutual comfort. I^th. — First-day Attended the meeting at Ballinderry, where, I think, about one hundred persons were present. I beheve that expectation ran high ; but, alas ! I had little to say ; and frankly told them that really I had it not in commission to utter many words. This was a discouragement to myself, but I pray earnestly to be preserved from speaking in the name of my great and good Master without His commission. At the close, however, I was enabled to supplicate for those present. Jacob Green, an acknowledged minister, who resides here, was from home; but VOL. II. 2 c 418 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. we visited his wife in their neat and plain dwelling. He is a farmer, and has a family of seven children.^' In proceeding to Moyallen, W. Allen mentions being much pleased to see a number of new buildings, designed for school houses, emanating from the Kildare Street Society, Dublin, and adds — '• The Marquis of Downshire is a great promoter of schools upon this plan. We came to Thomas Cliristy Wakefield's, where John Conran resides, and I was comforted in meeting the dear old man ; *T. C. W. was absent, but wished us to come to his house. "^^th. — Favoured with a precious calm this morning, and at meeting, which was appointed at eleven o'clock, my mind was sensible of best help. Dear aged John Conran sat by me, and his spirit was cheering. The great Master, in infinite condescension, was graciously pleased to be with us, and it was a blessed time. We dined at T. C. Wakefield's, jun., where there was a mixed company, among whom was a plain looking man who had been disowned on account of holding New Light* principles; there was also a Presbyterian minister present, and a gentleman who is a magistrate, and resides in the neighbourhood. When I went into the room the Bible was open upon the table, and I found that a discussion was going forward on the subject of the Trinity. The minister evidently looked towards me to give an opinion ; I felt that great caution was necessary, but did not then know the circumstances of the individual above alluded to. In reply to their enquiries, I said, that we did not use the word Trinity, because we did not find it in the Holy Scriptures ; but that we firmly believed in all that was written i)i the Scriptures, respecting the Father, the Sou, and the Holy Ghost. This I afterwards found was very satisfactory to Friends, but the person first alluded to was much chagrined, and did not wish those, who were not of our Society, to hear so full a declaration of our behef. The evening * A name given, in the North of Ireland, to the principles of persons ■who seceded from Friends, and denied some of the doctrines of the New Testament. 1826.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 419 was spent in useful conversation ; my mind was clothed with a precious degree of divine sweetness, and, I tliink, the time was profitably employed/' After visiting the meetings of Friends at Rathfriland, Lurgan, and Richhill, at which latter place, John Conran, within a few days of eighty-seven years of age, feeble in body, but strong in the faith, was bright and clear in the ministry. William Allen took leave of his kind friends at Moyallen, and proceeded to Grange and Cootehill, which finished his visit to the province of Ulster. He mentions being much cast down in some places, from finding but little of the hfe of religion, and that he was con- strained, though in the spirit of love, to warn the careless and and the disobedient, reminding them, that " Without holiness no man shall see the Lord," and, that " It is appointed unto all men once to die, but after this the judgment." He however also felt comforted in meeting with several valuable and excellent characters, " whose company," he says, " did my heart good." In the course of his journey to Dublin, he was struck with the apparent ignorance and destitution of the peasantry. On his arrival in that city, he was kindly met by Joseph Bewley, and two days afterwards went to attend the meeting at Wicklow. " The ride was beautiful, " he says, — " totally different from the other side of Dublin. The Dublin and Wicklow mountains are fine objects, and the country is rich and well cultivated ; here are few hovels, the cottages are neater, and the people better dressed. Wicklow is a poor place ; the meeting was small, but a precious sense of the Lord's power was mercifully granted. 1 was engaged in ministry, and felt thankful to my Divine Master for His gracious help." On the following morning he writes— =- " Tenth Month hth. — Met the Carlow coach, in Dawson Street, and, accompanied by Jonathan Pirn, went to Ballitore, to the house of Elizabeth Barrington, a valuable Friend, a minister, who keeps 2 c 2 420 LITE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. a nice little shop, and lives in that neat, simple, comfortable way which I enjoy; I feel quite at home here. Ballitore is a dehghtful village, the country is beautiful, the tops of the distant mountains rise above the neat white-washed houses, and an air of quiet reigns throughout. E. B. went with me to call upon several Friends ; one, between seventy and eighty years of age, quite confined to his bed, was waited upon by his daughter, an only child, and was receiving from her those kind attentions, which my beloved child would have given me when nature failed, if she had lived, but she is better off ! We had a religious opportunity, in which 1 was led to address him, and, on parting, he expressed his comfort. We took tea at James Whitens, at the school. They are very nice premises. This school was established for Friends and others, by Abraham Shackleton, in the year 1726. Richard Shackleton was liis sou. There was a large company, amongst whom were Mary Lecky and her daughter. I was present at the evening reading of the Scriptures, and, in the pause afterwards, addressed the pupils. James Wliite read vnth due solemnity and feeling. Tenth Month Hh. — Meeting at ten ; Montlily Meeting. I had to warn some of too eager an attachment to the world, to show that our own righteousness was good for nothing, that the fearful and the unbeheving, as well as the heinously wicked, were excluded from the holy city ; and to remark, that, in the description of the last great day, those who were set on the left hand were not charged with gross sins of commission, but witli sins of omission. ' I was an hungred and ye gave me no meat,' &c. 1th. — M. L. and her daughter brought me to Carlow, where a meeting was appointed at ten o'clock. I was enabled to speak in ministry, to the relief of my own mind, though I felt that preaching the Son and Sent of the Father, was not acceptable to all. An aged man, whom I afterwards called upon, was of this class; he brought forward arguments on the subject, all of which I replied to, and entreated him to refrain from speculation, and to turn to Him who could alone support him, when flesh and heart failed. He afterwards came and dined with us." 1826.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 421 William Allen paid an agreeable visit to his kind friends at Kilnock, and from tlience went to Kilconner meeting, where he was for some time under great discouragement, but was at length enabled to declare the truths of the gospel; and he writes — " Ah ! I feel that I am nothing, but the dear Master is all. May He condescend to lead and guide me to the end ! " John J. Lecky accompanied him to Ferns and Enniscorthy, at which latter place the Friends of Cooladine met him. He lodged at Anne Thompson's, where, he says — " Her father, Thomas Thompson, called ; he is a dear fine old man — he spent the evening with us. We had much conversation about Africa.'* Tenth Month Wth. — W. A. attended the meeting of Forest, and, on his way to Ross, visited the agricultural school at Bannow. He was much pleased with a school at Ross, connected with the Kildare Street Society, and says — "It has been established for many years, and divers of the children are occupying respectable places in society. Samuel Elly told me of the case of a Httle lame beggar boy, who was very troublesome in the streets ; he was placed iu this school, and soon made great proficiency; at length he went to America, where he settled as a school-master, is now respectably married, and is doing well." WiUiam Allen lodged at Samuel Elly's, which, he says, is a beautiful situation ; and, in speaking of the meeting at Ross, writes — " I felt comforted in the Lord, and after meeting, went to call upon an invahd, to whom I had to impart counsel and encourage- ment. The afternoon was fine, and Jacob Poole accompanied me on a car to Waterford, where I went to John Strangman's ; his house is a Httle distance from the town, and is called Summerland. 432 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. Tliere was a large company assembled to attend the Quarterly Meeting. Tenth Month \^ith. — Attended the Quarterly Meeting of Minis- ters and Elders. My spirit was a little refreshed by the divine presence. Dined at our dear friend, Mary Watson's; she is Wind, as is Sarah Shackleton, who also dined there, and they were both very cheerful. Took tea with Margaret Hoyland, a precious Friend, who keeps an apothecary's shop, and is very useful in prescribing. I was present at the general meeting of the provincial school in the evening." During the three succeeding days, William Allen was much occupied with engagements consequent upon the Quarterly Meeting. He was frequently called into the field of labour; and in the meetings for worship and discipline, as well as in the social circle, and with individuals in private, he was diligent in advocating his Master's cause. On one occasion, when difficulties arose respecting the appointment of a committee for some service, he says — *' I encouraged Friends not to look for great things, but rather to make the most of the little strength they possessed." He often gratefully acknowledges the kindness he experienced, and mentions paying comforting visits to several Friends in Waterford, particularly to Joseph White who was blind and lame, but who, W. Allen says — " is amongst the living in that meeting." Fourth-day, he had a fine ride by David Malcomson's cotton mills at Mayfield, to Clonmel, stopping in his way at Anner Mills, where he much enjoyed the society of Sarah Grubb, and the various members of her large family. He lodged at David Malcomson's, and on the following day attended meeting at Clonmel, where, as well as in some families, he was engaged in ministry. He mentions his visit to the school at Suir Island with much interest. After attending the meeting at Garryroan, 1826.J OP WILUAM ALLEN. 423 near Cahir, he proceeded to Cork, Youghal, and Limerick. A public meeting for worship was appointed by his request, at the latter place ; a large number of persons were present, who were very quiet and attentive ; and William Allen was engaged both in ministry and prayer. In referring to the week-day meeting at Limerick, he says — " The Lord gave us a blessed time." Whilst desiring that the excellent discipline of our Religious Society should ever be faithfully exercised, he was peculiarly ahve to the importance of its being done in a Christian spirit ; and, in writing to a friend with whom he had had some conver- sation on the subject, he says — " Far, very far, be it from me, to ^vish to see the discipline of our society relaxed in favour of any one improperly ; but I do long to see it administered in the spirit of love, even in that which tends to heal and to restore. I felt much for Friends as I sat in their small monthly meeting at , and for thee in particular, with desires that the great Head of the Church might, by the operation of His love and power in thy heart, fit and qualify thee for service. The harvest is great, but few indeed are the faithful labourers." He lodged at Joseph Massey Harvey's, at Limerick, and on the 26th, his host and John Abel accompanied him to the county gaol, which was built in consequence of the exertions of Thomas Spring Rice, now Lord Monteagle, and of the cleanliness of this prison, together with the excellent regulations which are observed in it, he speaks very highly. He thought it right to address the prisoners, and they gratefully received what he had to communicate. On leaving Limerick, he attended the meetings between that city and Mountmellick, where he spent first-day, and, at the meeting in the morning, had some close doctrine to deliver. He notices that Samuel Neale and Mary Peisley were married here. At two o'clock, he had a meeting with the officers and children of the Provincial School, and in the evening a public 424 * LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. meeting for worship was held, which proved large and satisfac- tory. He says — " It was remarked, that there was a visible solemnity over the people as they passed tlirough the streets ; my spirit was bowed in thankfulness to my Divine Master, whose doing alone it was." " Tenth Month Z^th. — Breakfasted with Anne Shannon, who keeps a girls' school, and has about fourteen pupils. We had a rehgious opportunity with the dear children, and were favoured with the overshadowing of that Power, which brings into solemnity and contrition of heart. It was a sweet time ; I was led to encourage the head of the family, and to counsel the teachers. In the afternoon, Samuel Pim and William Thacker accompanied me to Samuel Boardman's at Colderry. We passed RosenalHs, and saw the spot close to the road, where William Edmundson's house stood, also Priends' burying ground, where liis remains are deposited." The following day, William Allen attended the meeting at Birr, and in the afternoon, on his way to James Clibborn^s, at Hall, rode over part of the Bog of Allen, which he says, reminded him of the Steppes of Russia. He speaks witli interest and affection of his host, and mentions spending an agreeable evening in the family. Eleventh Month \st. — He ^vl•ites — " Went to meeting at Moate ; my mind very low under a sense of the state of things here, and I thought that the meeting would probably be a silent one; but it proved otherwise : and I had to deliver close doctrine, I trust in much love, and to counsel and encourage the young." Though rather cautioned against going into Connaught, on account of the irritation of the public mind, he was not easy to omit visiting the small meeting at Ballymurry, which, he says, ' several besides Priends attended, and the Lord gave us a good time.' He proceeded by Edenderry and Rathangan to Dublin, 1826.] OP WILLIAM ALLEN. 425 where he was again cordially welcomed by Joseph Bewley, and met Alexander D'Junkovsky. "Eleventh Month hth. — Meeting at ten. Pretty largely engaged in ministry on the text, ' Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die : for I have not found thy works perfect before God.' I had, however, to divide the word, and comfort another state. Attended the afternoon meeting at two o'clock, and a pubhc meeting for worship which was appointed at six in the evening. I went under depression, but was pre- ciously supported by the power of the Lord ; and after speaking for a considerable time in ministry, was engaged in supplication. Several Friends expressed their satisfaction, blessed be my gracious Master, to whom alone the praise is due ! %th. — Visited the school at Kildare Street. Met Samuel Bewley, and went over the whole educational establishment ; great additions have been made. It is now very complete, and a noble concern. Two hundred masters were sent out last year, and one hundred mistresses." After paying a few other visits to benevolent institutions, as well as some of a social or religious character, William Allen embarked at Howth, and reached home on the 10th. In writing to a Friend on the subject of his visit to Ireland, he says &j " I gave in the certificate granted me by our Monthly Meeting under very precious and peaceful feelings, having been carried through my arduous engagement beyond any thing that I could have hoped for. I had many deep plunges and baptisms ; but I have humbly to acknowledge that my dear Lord and Master was ever near to support and sustain in the hour of need, and marvellously led me along. I visited every place where meetings are held, except two, where there were only two or three members. Several of the meetings were blessed seasons. The young people were watered, and truly there is a -hopeful prospect among them. The Lord is obviously laying His hand upon one here and another there, one of a city and two of a family. ' The fields are white already to harvest.' " 426 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. In writing to Stephen Grellet, soon after this period, WilHam Allen says — " I have lately had a sweet letter from M. Vemet ; she stiU retains fast hold of ' that better part/ which, I trust, ^\^ll never be taken away from her. A letter from her son Charles, written more recently, informs me that his sister Adele is about to be married to the Baron de Stael, our excellent friend in the Abolition cause." Marianne Vernet's letter presents an interesting and in- structive evidence of the strength and comfort, at times afforded by Christian intercourse. She writes — '^ I have, for many months, been wisliing to write to you, my very dear friend, but I was very iU on my way from Plombieres (Departement des Yosges in France ;) and since my return home have had two severe attacks of indisposition. I am now better, and beheve that it is not yet the will of God to withdraw me from the world. I have no anxiety on the subject. He has long, by His grace, granted me a feeling of sweet peace, and of submission to His will, fuU of consolation and delight. I experience so httle disquietude with regard to every thing relating to this world, that I am sometimes astonished ; but T pray to be preserved from that false peace, which arises from indifference : and when I search into the inmost recesses of my heart, it seems to me that my confidence rests alone upon the mercy of God in Jesus Christ, my adorable Saviour : and although proud thoughts and inward conflicts still, at times, arise to disturb this peace, and show the prevalence of sin, yet I trust that, through the operation of the Holy Spirit, which we earnestly implore, we shall be purified and sanctified. I felt so strongl} and so visibly the presence of the Comforter, in my poignant affliction of the 19th of May, 1825, that I should be very ungrateful were I to doubt that He who then cared for me, would still continue to be with me and my children, — 'a God mighty to save, and to cheer his poor dependent servants, at seasons, with the sweet influence of his love.' I borrow your own words,* and have read and re-read them. My dear and worthy * See page 414. 1826.] or WILLIAM ALLEN. 427 friend, Thomas Erskine, now at Geneva, has read them with me, and I have liad great consolation in introducing to his knowledge, my dear and precious friend, William Allen. Yes, — I depend upon your friendship, because I am the daughter of my beloved father, — because we have sacred ties in Jesus Christ, and because grief and sympathy have contributed to strengthen those ties. When I pray, the remembrance of you is often present with me, and I implore the best blessing of God upon you ; when I suffer, I also think of you, and 1 desire to bear afflictions as I have seen you bear them. What a blessing to reflect upon the happiness of those we have lost! it dries my tears when I think that my beloved Henri will sin no more, that my child is sheltered from temptation ; he can never more offend his God, never more neglect that great salvation which has been offered to him, but will enjoy it to all eternity. What a thought, ray dear and worthy friend ! How can we weep for our departed ones ! I have found some papers of my beloved child's which have much comforted me; he reproaches himself for not having loved his Saviour as he ought, and this leads me to hope that he loved Him more than we were aware of. It is difficult to me to reconcile not having closed his eyes ; and the thoughts of the sufferings he must have endured, always open my wounds afresh : but God permitted the stroke, surely for some wise purpose. May He grant us grace to profit by it!" In alluding to a person respecting whom they both felt an interest, she says — " It seems to me that God has spoken more to him of late, or rather that he has hearkened more, for God always speaks to us, and it is we who are guilty, when we hear Him not. Alas ! if we lived more in retirement and silence, waiting upon the Lord, we should better understand that divine, celestial voice, wliich speaks to us words of spirit and of life. The soul, which has known communion with its God, is guilty, if it does not seek opportunities of retiring to listen to Him in silence, seeking, with reverent attention, for that greatest privilege which is permitted to mortals. Ah ! how often am I that guilty soul ! pray for me, my dear friend, that God 42B LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1826. may grant me grace to seek Him more and more in silence and retirement. It is a great comfort to me to hear from you ; all your christian words which come from your heart, reach mine, — they edify, fortify, and console me. Adieu ! May God, by His grace spread His most precious blessings over you, by our Saviour Jesus Christ. My husband and all my children desire that I would present to you their sincere respects. Do not forget us in your prayers, and beUeve in the sincere attachment of your friend, M. Vernet, nee Pictet." "Eleventh Month Wth. — Dr. Lusliington has proved, incon- testably, the innocence of Lecesne and Escoffery, and the gross conspiracy that has been formed against them. I'ith. — Meeting. Hannah and Maria Middleton, who are per- forming a rehgious visit to the families of Friends in Gracechurch Street quarter, were there. M. M. was very clear and beautiful on the passage of the ark through Jordan. \2>th. — Morning Meeting. The tendering influence of divine love was to be felt ; Isaac Hammer was there, and gave a plain and simple account of his late rehgious engagement in Germany. He had travelled much on foot, going from village to village, and from town to town, visiting pious persons in their houses ; some of them accompanied him as guides, and he found many more of this description than he at all expected. It seems that a great work is going forward in the hearts of numbers in that country. 'ilst. — Dear Cornelius was married to-day at Bristol, to Eliza- beth Sanderson ; I approve of the connexion. 'Zhth. — At Lindfield. Engaged in prayer in the night watches; renewed my covenant with the Lord. '^Qth. — We concluded to hold our meeting in Anna Bradshaw^s parlour. Even before we were all assembled, a solemnity was felt, which increased to a precious degree of sweetness, for which I felt reverently thankful. It seemed as if our blessed Master owned us together, with the lifting up of the light of His countenance. At length I had to address the company, under a fresh feeling of the anointing. I beHeve most were contrited ; there was after- 1826.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 429 wards a solemn pause, and, towards the conclusion, I was engaged in supplication and thanksgiving. I hardly ever was sensible, on any similar occasion, of more openness, and a greater degree of evidence that it was ' with the spirit.^ Amongst other petitions, I was led to pray for a blessing upon our endeavours to promote the good of the inhabitants of this place. O, that many souls may be gathered ! This was a sweet meeting, wliich, I trust, I shall long remember. Went over to the schools, and about six o'clock held our reading meeting. I was glad to see such an attendance, and had sohd peace in this evening's engagement, as well as in the meeting in the morning. Twelfth Month \Uh. — ^IVIeeting at Gracechurch Street. The marriage of John Yeardley and Martha Savory. There was a holy solemnity in the time of silence, for which I felt reverently thankfid ; there were some acceptable communications in ministry, and we had a good meeting. Ihth. — British and Foreign School Committee; took iu an Arminian to train. \Qth. — General Macaulay dined with me, and we spent the afternoon very pleasantly together. In the evening I went to a meeting of my neighbours at the infant school-room, on the subject of a savings' bank. It was estabhshed, and I was made one of the trustees. l^th. — Attended RatclifC Monthly Meeting, which was to me a time of comfort ; E. J. Fry appeared in supplication, and several Friends spoke in ministry. I rose with these words of our blessed Hedeemer, ' My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work,' afterwards adding, ' He that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal,' &c. At the close of the first meeting, women Friends being desired to remain, E. J. F. opened her prospect of pajing a religious visit to Ireland, and her sister-in-law, Elizabeth Fry, also expressed her concern to join her. They were encouraged to proceed, and were furnished with certi- ficates. Ilnd. — An important conference with H. Brougham, about his book society, in which he wishes me to take a part. 430 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE [1827. Twelfth Month %^th. — Quarterly Meeting; a signally favoured time. In tlie second meeting there was a precious solemnity. The queries were answered in course. I returned my certificate; soon after which E. J. Fry and her sister came in, and laid their con- cern before the meeting to visit Ireland. I beheve many felt that Divine Goodness overshadowed us. Several Priends, and I among the rest, bore pubKc testimony to the unity felt with them. First Month X'^th, 1827. — Met the book committee, atPurnival's Inn."^ The rules were read, and the great point with some of us was, to guard against admitting any thing which might be opposed to revealed religion ; a sketch was at length agreed to, which is to be sent round to the members for improvements and suggestions. 23r^. — Eeceived a letter from Captain Blaquiere, giving a good account of Lord Guildford's university, and of the progress of schools upon the British and Foreign system, in the Ionian Islands. I^th. — Went up to Count Mandelsloh, the Wurtemberg Ambassador, and left with him a letter, which I have written to the King of Wurtemberg, together with a copy of 'Colonies at Home,' and the Address to the Students at Guy's Hospital. He seemed quite pleased, and promised to send them off to- morrow." In this letter, W. A. says — I have often remembered, with pleasure, what passed in the interview, with which thou and thy consort were pleased to favour me, when at Stuttgard. Thou may est recollect, that, among other subjects, the conversation turned upon establishments for the poor, in which they might subsist, — partly by cultivating a small portion of laud, and partly by some handicraft business. Since my return to England, I have been showing, by actual experiment, what may be done in this way. I have fully stated my plans in a pamphlet, entitled, 'Colonies at Home,' of which I beg thy acceptance." * Prom which originated the " Society for the Diffusion of Useful Knowledge." 1827.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 431 After entering a little into this subject, W. A. alludes to the decease of the late Emperor, Alexander of Russia, which, he says, '' affected me deeply," and adds — " I send thee a copy of a letter, which I wrote to him, shortly before his lamented death, and I send it, because I wish to impress upon thi/ mind also, the sentiments contained in it. During his life, I used great reserve in communicating what passed in the different interviews, with wliich he was pleased to favour me ; but that restraint is now, in some measure, removed. In thus bringing myseK to thy notice, my sole desire is, to promote, as far as I can, the comfort and happiness of the whole family of man. I deeply felt, when with thee, thy paternal interest in the welfare of thy people ; and it will afford me much satisfac- tion if any suggestions of mine should prove of the least assistance to thee. I beg thy acceptance also of the model of a cottage, made at our works at Lanark, in Scotland. With desires that thou and thy dear consort may long be preserved a blessing to your people, and a bright example to other princes, I remain, in christian affection. Your very respectful friend, William Allen." During his visit to Ireland, and subsequently by corresponding with persons in different parts of the country, William Allen was earnest to promote plans for the improvement of the peasantry, and to introduce the system of agriculture detailed in his " Colonies at Home." Amongst the letters which he received in reference to this subject, was one from Maria Edgeworth, con- taining the following spirited observations : — BdgewortK s Town, January 19M, 1827. '^Dear Sir, " I am gratified and honoured by your sending me an account of your benevolent plans for Ireland, and I heartily wish you and them success. 432 LIFE AND COHRESPONDENCE [1827. There can be no doubt that what you call colonization at home, would be preferable to colonization abroad, if it can be carried into effect, because it would, in the first place, save all the risk, expense, and suffering of emigration, and would, in the next place, secure to the home country the benefits of increased and improved cultivation and civilization. Your plans of improved agriculture and economy, appear most feasible and most promising on paper ; but T fear that in attempting to carry them into execution in this country, there would be found obstacles of which you can form no estimate, without a more intimate knowledge of the habits of the peasantry of Ireland, than a first visit to this country could afford, or, in short, anything but long residence could give. Their want of habits of punctuality and order, would embarrass you at every step, and prevent your carrying into effect those regular plans in which it is essential that they must join, for their own advantage. Your daivT/ j^lans for instance, which have succeeded so well in Switzerland, would not do in this country, at least, not without a century's experiments. Paddy would fall to disputing with the dairyman, would go to law witli liim for his share of the common cow's milk, or for her trespassing , or he would pledge his eightli or sixteenth part of her for his rent, or his bottle of whisky, and the cow would be pounded and re-jdedtjed, and re-pounded and bailed and canted j and things impossible for you to foresee, perhaps impossible for your English imagination to conceive, would happen to the cow and the dairyman. In all your attempts to serve my poor dear countrymen, you would find, that whilst you were demonstrating to them what would be their greatest advantage, they would be always making out a short cut, not a royal road, but a bog-road to their own /5y-objects. Paddy would be most grateful, most sincerely, warmly grateful to you, and would bless your honour, and your honour's honour, with all his heart ; but he would, nevertheless, not scruple on every practicable occasion, to to to cheat, I will not say, — that is a coarse A\oi-d, — but to circumvent you ; at every turn you would find Paddy try- ing to walk round you, begging your honour's pardon — hat off, bowing to the ground to you — all the while laughing in your face if you found him out, and, if he outwitted you, loving \ou all tlic better for being such an innocent. 1827.] OF WILLIAM ALLEK. 433 Seriously, there is no doubt that the Irish people would, like all other people, learn honesty, punctuahty, order, and economy, with proper motives and proper training, and in due time, but do not leave time out of your account. A^ery sorry should I be, either in jest or earnest, to discourage any of that enthusiasm of benevolence wliich animates you in their favour. But, as Paddy himself would say, ' Sure it is better to be disappointed in the beginning, than the end.' Each failure in attempts to do good in this country, discourages the friends of humanity, and encourages the railers, scoffers, and croakers, and puts us back in hope, per- haps haK a century: therefore, think well before you begin, and, begin upon a small scale, which you may extend as you please afterwards. You may, in some happy instances, find generous, rich, and judicious landlords, who will assist you ; but do not depend upon it, that tliis will be general, else you wiU be crueUy disappointed, not in promises, but in performance. The mixture of agriculture and manufactures, I have no doubt makes the happiest system for the people, and whether this tended most to the riches of a state or not, the balance of comfort and happiness would decide a friend of humanity in its favour." " Second Month \st. — Jean Gaspard Zellweger, a Swiss, dined with me, and staid the night. He had a letter of introduction from M. Yernet, who says, 'I take the liberty of recommending to you a young man, from the Canton of Appenzel. He is the son of an eminent philanthropist, Mr. Jean Gaspard Zellweger, who devotes the principal part of his fortune to the good of his country ; he is a deeply religious character. He had a beloved wife and nine children, five of whom he has lost, and also his wife, but his trials have brought him nearer to his God, and he much desires for his only remaining son, that he may be altogether a christian. The simplicity of this family resembles that of the Society of Friends. I feel a great regard for the young man, who has been much with us. Pray give him some paternal counsel. He is very desirous of avoiding temptation, and earnestly begs for an introduction to you.' " VOL. II. 2d 434 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1827. In this letter, Marianne Vernet also says — " Charles has written to inform you of the intended marriage of my Adele, and to beg your prayers for her. I have been very poorly lately, and am not yet well, but we have had a far greater source of anxiety in the illness of M. de Stael, which has much affected us aU. Tor some days we were doubtful whether we should not again have our tenderest feelings called forth ; thanks be to the God of mercy, however, our dear friend is now much better; indeed he has made so much progress towards convales- cence, that we look forward to his being well enough to accom- plish the marriage towards the end of February. 1 would intreat you, as a father, to pray to God that He would preserve this dear young couple, that He would keep them amidst the temptations of the world, and draw them more and more unto Himself, that thus they may go steadily forward in the christian course, in that way which our blessed Lord calls them into. Ask for them an abun- dant measure of His Holy Spiiit, by wliich alone they can be strengthened to resist evil, and experience regeneration of heart." Under this date, W. A. mentions writing the following letter : — TO PRINCE ALEXANDER GALITZIN, "Stoke Newington, near London, \si of Second Month, 1S27. " My DEAR AND HIGHLY RESPECTED TrIEND, " Por a long time past I have very often wished to address thee, and our beloved friend in the Lord, B. Papof, with a few lines expressive of that love and sympathy which flows in my heart towards you ; but whenever I think of you, the image or idea of one inexpressibly dear to us all, impresses my mind so forcibly, that I know not how to begin. Never, except in the loss of those most nearly connected with me by the ties of nature, have I felt anguish of heart, equal to that which I experienced when 1 first heard the news of the illness and death of the beloved Alexander ; but, after a time, it seemed as if I felt sympathy with his redeemed and glorified spirit, and I could only contemplate him as one of the just made perfect, and for ever centred in his Heavenly Tather^s rest. 1827.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 435 I shall be tliankful to my Divine Master as long as I live, that I yielded to the impression of duty, which I felt in my own mind, to go to Vienna and confer with the dear Emperor. The interviews vtith him there and at Verona, were most satisfactory. In the last I had with him, he embraced me affectionately, and, fixing his eyes upon me, said, with much solemnity, ' When and where shall we meet again ? ' Ah ! may we, my beloved friend, when our day of trial is over, through the merits of a crucified Redeemer, meet him again in that blessed company ' which came out of great tribu- lation, and have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in his temple : and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun hght on them, nor any heat. Tor the Lamb which is in the midst of the tlirone shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters : and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.' The humble disciple of a crucified Lord has this comfort under aU his trials, whether public or private, that his Divine Master has promised to be with him alway, even unto the end of the world, and if He be with us, what have we to fear ? If thou shouldest judge it suitable, please to present the en- closed to the Emperor Nicholas, with my very sincere respects. It is what his beloved brother wished me to send to him, when I had finished it. The title is ' Colonies at Home,' and it contains those plans for promoting the comfort and happiness of the agricultural poor, which I am now carrying on at Lindfield, in Sussex. The late Emperor wished me to send him details. May we, my dear and highly respected friend, be favoured to keep under the influence of divine grace, knowing Christ to dwell in our hearts by faith; then shall we experience preservation tlirough all the storms of time, and at length an entrance will be administered to us into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I remain, with great respect. Thy ever affectionate friend, William Allen." 2 D a 436 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1827 "Second Month \Zth. — We held the Infant School Committee at the Row ; an excellent report has been drawn up ; one hundred and eight children on the books; between eighty and ninety attend. 14^!^. — Walked up to the Colonial Office, Downing Street, by appointment of R. W. Hay ; the object was to try to obtain a free passage to Corfu for one of the Greek lads. 1 left him Jenkinses (the school master's) letter from the Mauritius, and spoke to him about Sierra Leone. He was very kind, and said he must enquire about vessels going to Greece. \hth. — Daniel ScHatter, of St. Gallen, came to stay with us; he is a pious young man who has been hving amongst the Nogaye Tartars. Third Month. — Count Mandelsloh has transmitted me the fol- lowing letter from the King of Wm'temberg : — ' I have received, with particular satisfaction, your letter dated 26th of January, also the little publication entitled ' Colonies at Home,' with the Address to the Students at Guy's Hospital, and a copy of the letter to his late Majesty the Emperor Alexander^ Accept my warmest thanks for all these interesting communica- tions, which you have had the kindness to send me. I shall attentively examine in what way I can make the best use of your philanthropic suggestions. Adieu, Sir: may you always continue your benevolent occupations with the same zeal, and may your excellent plans to promote the cause of humanity, be crowned with the success which the good intentions of their author so justly merit. I feel a real interest in them, and shall always value the sentiments you entertain towards myself. I pray God that He may always have Mr. Wilham Allen in His holy keeping. WiLHELM.' ?>rd. — My mind turned to the Lord in reverent thanksgiving, and prayer to be more completely His servant in all things. O, for more faith ! In my study, writing to President Boyer." In this letter William Allen says — " Permit me to introduce myself to thy notice, as one who has laboured in the cause of the descendents of Africa, for more than 1827.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 437 forty years, and who is desirous of doing all in his power to assist in the Abolition of Slavery aU over the world. I am most anxious that Hayti should set such an example of a free and happy people, as shall confound all your adversaries ; and this will certainly be the case if a sense of our duties to God and to man, be deeply impressed upon the minds of the people. It has been justly observed, that a people without morals may obtain freedom, but without morals they could never preserve it. I am therefore extremely desirous to hear that the means of education ai-e provided for the poorest, which is always the most numerous class in every country, and I am glad to learn that this subject has engaged much of thy attention.''' W. A. adds, in his Diary — " Sent to President Boyer, 'Colonies at Home,' 'Brief Remarks,' ^Thoughts,' ' School Report,' 'Manual', and 'Scripture Lessons.'" About this period, he mentions, in a letter to a friend, that a new epoch was opening in his eventful life. For years, he and Grizell Birkbeck had been upon terms of friendship. The peculiar circumstances of his family led him often to seek her help and counsel ; and, in his close and deep bereavements, she was his kind and sympathizing adviser. "It was not, however," he says, "tiU after I lost my beloved child, who was, as it were, my last earthly prop, that a more intimate union than that of friendship opened to my view; and now the time appears nearly come for its completion. We purpose, if nothing unforeseen prevent, that the marriage shall take place on the 14th instant. Should this step appear singular, let it be remembered, that the dispensations through which I have had to pass, have been singularly afflictive." The marriage was accomplished. on the 14th of Third Month, soon after which period, he removed to Paradise Row. In a letter from Prince Alexander Galitzin, dated 29th of March, he says, in addressing William Allen — 438 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE [1827. " Your letter, of the first of February, has been very welcome to me ; and the feelings you expressed therein, concerning the loss of our greatly beloved Emperor, Alexander, of glorious memory, were of the kind I should expect from your sincere attachment to his person, and due regard to his character. The whole of your letter was of a great interest to me. I have communicated the contents of it to his Majesty the Emperor, and presented, at the same time, your pamphlet about the colonies at home. His Imperial Majesty has deigned to accept it most graciously. He charged me to express to you his thanks for it, and to remark to you, that, when in England, his Majesty has seen, with the greatest satisfaction, different establishments of individuals belonging to the Soeiety of Ericnds. I have also the pleasure to inform you of the Empress Dowager's commission to me, in consequence of what you requested me, in the conclusion of your letter, to mention to her Majesty, from your part. The Empress is very thankful for the sentiments you are shewing to her Imperial Majesty ; and, being well aware of the importance of the prayers of vhtuous men, she hopes you will not refuse to pray for her Majesty, and for the welfare of the benevolent institutions under her protection. I most gratefully acknowledge your pious wishes for myself, and cordially desire for you the same from on high. I send you my portrait, which I hope you will be pleased with, as it has been very successfully done. I beg your prayers for me, and remain, with sentiments of true consideration and friendship. My dear Su-, Your obedient Servant, Prince Alexander Galitzin." "Sixth Month ^&ih. — Quarterly Meeting. In the second meet- ing E. J. Ery and her sister came into our meeting, to return their certificates. E. J. F. gave a sweet account of their visit to Ireland, and the inward support which they had received. ]\Iy spirit was nearly united to her, and it was a refreshing time. It is admirable to see how she is preserved in humility. Her sister-in-law spoke afterwards. 1827.] OF "WILLIAM ALLEN, 439 Eighth Month Qth. — G. Canning is dangerously ill, not likely to survive through the day. This seems to be a heavy national loss. In anting to a friend, soon afjervvards, W. A. says — " The death of George Canniug has thrown a gloom over our country, and is deeply felt and deplored by those who know how to appreciate liberal sentiments. The King has ordered a pubhc funeral for him, and declines to appoint a successor until that is over." During the summer and autumn months, William Allen frequently spent a week or two at his cottage at Lindfield, to superintend the important concerns of the little Colony. He was generally accompanied by his wife and two of her nieces, who resided with them ; and it was his usual practice on these occasions, to visit some of the surrounding meet- ings of Friends, where, as well as in the neighbourhood of London, he was often led, by the constraining power of heavenly love, to invite all to come unto Jesus — to Him who has declared himself to be, " the way, the truth, and the life." On the decease of his dear and valued friend, Sarah Benson, he went to Liverpool, in company with Joseph Foster, to attend the interment of her remains; and Eleventh Month ^th — First-day, he writes — "Low in the night, but favoured with access in prayer to Him who has supported and comforted me in my pilgrimage, all my life long. Meeting at ten : I spoke in ministry, and was mercifully assisted beyond expectation, and my faith was sweetly confnmed. The interment took place in the afternoon. The great Master was Avith us indeed, and an uncommon covering of solemnity attended. Many, I beheve, felt it to be a good time, and a precious evidence seemed to be given, that the dear deceased was admitted a joyful inhabitant of one of those many mansions in the Heavenly Father's house, which the Saviour has prepared for 440 LIFE AND COREESPONDENCE [1827. his humble^ devoted followers. We had a memorable rehgious opportunity at Lodge Lane^ in the evening. Dear Robert Benson read three favourite chapters of his mother^ s, the 5thj 6th, and 7th of Revelations. Eleventh Month ^th. — Comfortable retrospect of yesterday; my heart is filled with reverent thankfulness. Zellweger, the young Swiss recommended to me by M. Vernet, breakfasted with me, at my hotel. I gave him some rehgious advice at parting." After his return home, he writes — " ^th. — Took leave of Hannah Kilham, who is on the point of going to Africa. 'Zlth. — I am grieved to hear of the decease of the Baron de Stael ; he died at Copet, a few days ago, of typhus fever. The loss of such a man, at such a time, makes one^s heart sad. I sympatliize deeply with the family in their great affliction, but trust that they wiU be supported by the sweet influences of the Holy Spirit, which sustain the soul of every true behever in our blessed Saviour, under all the tribulations incident to this state of being. 29z?i.-— Disturbed in the night with driving rain, but my mmd a little comforted and refreshed with a sense of the Lord's presence. May it be the chief object of my life to watch over myself, and my own temper, to labour more and more after the meekness and gentleness of Christ, and to encourage that which is good in others, to the utmost of my power. We have received intelligence that Sir Neil Campbell, the Governor of Sierra Leone, is dead. These frequent instances of mortality there are very discouraging. 30M. — To town, to attend the election of officers at the Royal Society, and was gratified in meeting many old friends. Davy resigned as President, and Herschel and Children as Secretaries. Davies Gilbert was generally voted for as President, and Dr. Roget, and Sabine were elected Secretaries. Twelfth Month 3rd. — Committee of the British and Foreign Bible Society. A very interesting report from Dr. Pinkerton and his companion about their late journey. 1827.] OF WILLIAM ALLEN. 441 Twelfth Month 1th. — I received a letter to-day from Contineas, and the dear Colonists in South Russia." In this letter^ Contineas says — " Although scarcely able to hold a pen, T cannot let a letter addressed to you, go without making an effort to write a few words, to tell vou that my heart is still, to this hour, filled with a love as cordial, and a veneration as constant, as at the time when I had the happiness of seeing you, and of passing some dehghtful days in your incomparable society. The good Daniel Schlatter is returned to our country, and has rejoiced me much by bringing us tidings of your health. The Mennonites of Chortitz and the Moloshnia, as well as the neigh- bouring Colonies, are not less delighted than I am, to hear from him that you still remember them with affection. The httle garden wliich was enclosed in the garden of the Crown, and bears the name of our dear benefactor, was in a very flourishing state until about three years ago, when a cloud of locusts, wliich quite darkened the air, came down upon it, and had a very pernicious effect. The branches of our young exotic trees, which had sprung from your seeds, and were particularly precious to us, were covered with them, and were nearly broken under the weight of these sad insects. However, we laboured incessantly to repair the evil ; and, thanks to your generosity, we have many trees and shrubs still spai-ed, some of which have borne fruit. Our friend Fadeev and his wife, beg me to offer you their respects. We recommend ourselves very cordially to your good remembrance and friendship ; and we earnestly pray that our heavenly Father may, by our Lord Jesus Christ, shed His spuitual gifts abundantly on his pious and faithful servant, Wilham Allen, and upon all who belong to liim. I entreat you, my honoured friend, to remember in your prayers, an old man who is near the end of his pilgrimage here below, and who is with heart and soul. Your affectionate friend, Contineas ." 442 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE, &C. [1827. William Allen sent a present of " Colonies at Home/' and his " Address to the Students at Gu/s Hospital/' to Coimt Hogen- dorp, of the Hague, who, in acknowledging them to John S. Mollet, of Amsterdam, by whom they were forwarded, says — " I have read, with interest, the two pamphlets which you sent to me from our friend William Allen. I observe, with pleasure, that an English Professor of Medicine directs the hearts of the students, his auditors, to a Supreme Intelligence, and even to the blessings of revelation. Medical men are too often inclined towards materialism. The pamphlet on Colonies at Home, has given me great satisfaction." In the course of this year W. A. commenced a periodical which was printed at his Schools of Industry, Lindfield, and which was under his own immediate direction. Its title is " The Philan- thropic Magazine :" it was designed as "a repository for hints and suggestions calculated to promote the comfort and happiness of man." APPENDIX TO THE SECOND VOLUME. The Stjbstance op an Addeess to the Students at Guy's Hospital, IN THE Year 1826, by William Allen, T.R.S. Whilst thus standing on the confines of our system, and catching the glimmering lights that issue from the remote and unknown, let us lift up our hearts in reverence to that awful and infinitely perfect Being, who, operating in the immensity of space, and regulating the concerns of innumerable worlds, has yet condescended to create such an atom as man, and to endue that atom with the power of attaining unto the knowledge of Himself, the great Author and Supporter of all. Seeing, then, that He who created the universe has condescended to employ His omnipotence in the small, as well as in the great, and that we also are the workmanship of His hand, let us rejoice in the belief, that even we shall not escape His notice amongst the myriads of created beings ; let us be thankful that He has endowed us with faculties to comprehend a little of His wonderful works ; and let us ever remember, that throughout these, a provision for the hap- piness of His creatures is eminently conspicuous. It must, therefore, be consistent with His will that we should employ the powers which He has given us, in diflfusing as much comfort and happiness, in our respective circles, and throughout His creation, as our abiUties and peculiar circumstances will permit. In the study of nature, which is but " a name for an effect whose cause is God," every ingenious mind must be delighted with the dis- covery of general laws which will satisfactorily account for many important phenomena ; but we also quickly perceive that there are limits to human knowledge, and that it is in vain for finite beings to attempt to comprehend that which is infinite. We see that the won- derful effects taking place every moment, and upon which the whole frame and system of things depend, can only be referred to a great First Cause, infinite in all His attributes. The attribute of Omnipo- tence is no less displayed in the smallest, than in the largest works 444 APPENDIX. of creation ; it is equally manifest in the structure of the most minute animalculae, as in the precision with which the earth revolves upon its axis, carrying with it seas, mountains, kingdoms, conflicting elements, and bodies everywhere in motion ; while the great purpose is com- pleted with a degree of exactness which no time-piece can ever equal. The motions of the heavenly bodies are conducted with such admirable precision, that not one of them materially interferes with another ; no one deviates from its appointed course ; each steadily holds on its way in perfect obedience to Him, who spake, and they were created; who willed, and it was done. In the early part of our course, we considered the properties of matter, and the laws to which it is subject : we were convinced that it has no power to move itself, or when moved, by the application of external force, to stop, or even to alter the direction of that motion. It was stated that every particle of matter appears to have a certain equal degree of attractive force, which it exerts upon every other particle of matter ; and we have seen how this simple principle has accounted, not only for the fall of bodies, for the maintenance of the mechanical equilibrium, but also for the planetary motions and the multiplied phenomena of the universe ; it is the attribute of Omnipotence to accomplish the greatest of purposes by the simplest of means. It is owing to a species of attraction that bodies preserve their form, and that the particles of some kinds of matter assume regular geometrical figures, as in the crystals of salts and earths ; but here matter is entirely passive ; every species has its peculiar and determinate form, which is invariable, and indicates a general law. Again we see different species of matter variously acted upon by attracting energies, so as to form distinct bodies, which are the objects of chemical research. These are comparatively simple, easily composed and decomposed, as the balance of the various attractions of their different particles preponderates. The effects produced are obvious; but of the nature of attraction we are wholly ignorant, though it seems principally concerned in all the changes which are incessantly taking place ; even those powerful agents, caloric and and the electric fluid, appear to be, in some measure, connected with it. Hence bodies arrange themselves in the order of their specific gravity. Hence water and the grosser fluids are confined to the surface of the earth, while air, being lighter, occupies the space above ; it cannot, however, fly off indefinitely ; for its particles, though invisible, being solid, gravitating matter, are held by the APPENDIX. 445 force of attraction near the surface of the earth, for the respiration of animals. It is by the attraction between caloric and water, and probably the electric fluid also, that water is raised by evaporation as an invisible fluid, which, in the upper regions, condenses into clouds : the particles of these clouds either unite and descend in rain, or are attracted by the summits of hills and mountains, where they deposit their moisture, which, percolating through their strata, breaks out in springs ; these, by their union, form rivers, which, proceeding to the sea, supply the waste from evaporation ; this evaporation is a distillation upon a grand scale ; nothing but pure water is thus raised, which descends in dew or rain for the nourish- ment of vegetables. Here we trace the operation of powerful causes, while we remain ignorant of their nature ; but every thing goes on with such regularity and harmony as to give the most striking and convincing proofs of a combining, directing Intelligence, — of a present Deity. Any one of these agents uncontrolled would overturn the whole system of things : if attraction were to act without being opposed by caloric, all bodies would shrink up into one inert mass ; if on the other hand, caloric were to prevail, the forms of bodies would be immediately destroyed. Nothing but that creative Power from which they emanated, and who, in his comprehensive view, foresaw all possible consequences, could maintain the equilibrium between them, so that they can only act within the limits prescribed to them ; they can only exert their power in that direction which is conducive to the ends for which they were created. If the human powers fail, in attempting to account for the nature of the changes in inert matter, how must its difficulties be increased when we come to consider organised bodies. Here, in consequence of the addition of the living principle, the attractions of inert mat- ter are surprisingly modified ; a seed contains rudiments capable of being expanded into a large tree ; every tree has its peculiar form, and is capable of producing the rudiments of others. Here carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, which, left to themselves, would form com- pounds chiefly binary, being absorbed by the organs of the plant, form part of its substance, and are converted into living matter under a more complicated order of affinities. The vegetable, having flourished during a limited period of time, is deserted by the living principle, and the elements of which it is formed, the carbon, hydro- gen, and oxygen, attract each other according to the laws which 446 APPENDIX. regulate inert matter ; and thus the body is decomposed, and fur- nishes elements or materials for a new generation. It is like pulling down a house, and building another with the same materials. No less admirable is the provision by which the tribes of vegetables succeed each other upon the face of the earth. The means for the propagation and preservation of the different species, and the checks which have been established to prevent any of them from exceeding certain bounds, essential to the well-being of the whole, abundantly manifest an order and design which can only be attributed to Infinite Wisdom. But let us advance a step farther, and consider, not only the union of the living principle with matter, bat die power of sensation, loco- motion, and instinct superadded. What a field opens before us in the various classes of animals ! Whether we consider the thousands of organised bodies, sporting, pursuing, or avoiding each other, in a single drop of water, each of which would be more than sufficient to confound all the atheists in the world, or direct our attention to those of larger bulk, what admirable contrivance, what consummate skill in the adaptation of their various organs to their peculiar mode of existence, and to the place which the animal is destined to fill in the scale of created beings, — every one of them, doubtless, answering some purpose essential to the well-being of the whole, though we may not be able to discover it. How admirable is that instinct which directs the operations of them all, and to which they all in- variably adhere ! The wood-pigeon was never seen to build its nest like the goldfinch, nor the goldfinch like the swallow : these all uniformly accomplish the will of their Creator, and having passed through the limited period of their existence, give place to their ofi"- spring, the increase of which is so regulated as to secure the contin- uance of the species, and at the same time such checks are provided, as to keep them within convenient bounds ; and here it is remarkable that those animals which are most prolific are subject to the greatest casualties. Thus in the spawn of fish ; though the roe of a single cod might produce more living animals than there are men upon the face of the earth, yet most of them become the prey of other animals, and the equilibrium is constantly preserved. Through all these varying forms of animated beings the original matter is continually passing ; the element azote in animals being added to the carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Nothing less than the creative power of Omnipotence could add one atom to the mass, or annihilate the smallest particle of it. Hence it will follow, that air, earth, water, APPENDIX. 447 together with the present animals and vegetables, are composed of the same materials as those which existed at the first creation, notwithstanding the revolutions and changes through which, in the series of ages, these original elements must have passed. So far, we see a regular gradation of beings, rising in their various degrees, from simple life to sensation, under all its modified circum- stances. Every thing, so far complete ; but a being was wanted to supply the next link of the chain, and that being is man. Man, placed at the head of terrestrial beings, diflFers from other animals by the gift of mind. The mind, or soul, is properly the man ; the body is merely a set of instruments by which the mind executes its purposes. The human frame is the most wonderful of organised bodies, and in it we again observe the same infinitely wise adaptation of means to ends. As, in the lower orders of animals, each was furnished with organs exactly fitted to its local circumstances, and indispensable to its existence, so in the human body the organs and the senses were bestowed with a reference to mind. Man, being endowed with rea- son, can avail himself of the powers of nature, and make inferior animals subserve his purpose ; to him, therefore, the strength of the horse, the elephant, or the lion, was not necessary, any more than that acuteness of some of the senses for which many animals are so remarkable. It will, however, be instructive to consider the human body with reference to the difi^erent senses respectively. It was made erect, that it might assume a commanding attitude : and the organs of sight are so placed as to be able to contemplate the heavens, and have an extensive range over the surface of the earth. It was not necessary that the human eye should be as penetrating as that of the hawk or the eagle. Man, when it is necessary for him to see at a distance, can employ a telescope. If his sight had been ■ so microscopic as to see with great distinctness the structure of small insects, and the particles of air, the eye would have been unfit for common purposes, and the mind would have been distracted by the multiplicity of objects. Who can enough admire the wisdom of those laws by which the rays of hght are governed ! They travel through the regions of unfathomable space with a celerity almost beyond conception, at the rate of nearly 200,000 miles in a second of time. They arrive from difi"erent suns and from dificrent systems, crossing each other, in all directions, without the least interference or confusion ; and, as it concerns us less to be acquainted with objects 448 APPENDIX. at a distance, than with those near at hand, so the intensity of hght diminishes as the squares of the distances. The light from the sun, striking forcibly upon all the bodies about us, is reflected from their surfaces according to a fixed and invariable law : some of these surfaces have the power of decomposing a beam of white light, and separating it into its primitive colours ; some bodies reflect rays of one colour, some of another; hence arises an agreeable variety in the aspect of nature, and hence we are enabled to distin- guish, with greater certainty, one body from another. By means of that wonderful organ, the eye, we are made sensible of the distances and forms of bodies. All visible bodies reflect the rays of light from every part of their surface, in all directions ; and yet, in consequence of the simple and beautiful law of refraction, it is only those rays which faU in particular angles upon the eye that can produce complete vision. These, cross- ing each other on the optic axis, in the centre of the eye, produce a picture of objects upon the retina, or expansion of the optic nerve, at the back of that organ, and hence produce a sensation in the brain. The eye is so formed, then, as to shew us those objects which it most concerns us to be apprised of, with perfect distinctness only when they are at a certain distance. As they recede from us, the impressions are less distinct, and when they are so far as to be of no consequence to us, they no longer obtrude themselves upon our attention, but vanish away. Again, this organ in man is so perfect, that our two eyes, by means of the three pairs of muscles which govern each, answer the purpose of that vast quantity of eyes with which the hemisphere on the head of a common house-fly is studded. The coloured part of the eye, or iris, like a delicate veil, regulates the quantity of light admitted. Tn obscurity it contracts, and the pupil is enlarged ; but in a strong light it expands, and diminishes the aperture. The opening is circular in the human being, because a view was wanted in all directions, but in the cat and tiger it is verti- cal, their prey being above ; in horses and sheep it is transverse, for their food lies horizontally. This organ, as well as other parts of the body, is protected by the sense of feeling ; and this sense is exquisite in the eye, because it is of such vast importance to us. The minute ramifications of nerves, spread over the surface of the body, give us notice of mischief by the sensation of pain. Were it not for this, we might lose a finger, a hand, or an arm, without know- ing it. It appears by surgical operations, that this acuteness of APPENDIX. 449 feeling is greatest where it is most wanted for our protection, that is, at the surface of the body ; but that some of the internal parts of our frame have comparatively little of it. The provision for the durability of the limbs is no less admirable. If our hands had been made of iron, they would have been worn out long before the termi- nation of an ordinary life ; but the parts of the human body are con- tinually re-produced from the blood, which is itself formed from the chyle, a fluid into which the food is converted by the process of digestion, while old parts are taken up by a set of vessels called absorbents, and are carried off in the excretions. To a certain limited extent, parts which have been lost may be reproduced in the human body ; thus a wound will be filled up with granulations, in which new vessels will be formed : but here, again, we remark how every thing is adapted to the nature of the animal ; the more perfect the animal, the more irreparable is the loss of a part ; thus, in man, an arm or a leg, a hand, or even a finger, if once lost, can never be reproduced ; but if a crab lose a leg, or a lobster a claw, the limb, in process of time, is reproduced. This power of reproduction is so great in some of the less perfect animals, that a polypus being cut in pieces, the pieces will produce new animals of the same kind. The sense of smell, so extremely acute in some of the canine tribe, is precisely adapted in man to his situation ; and, while it gives him the power of gratification from the odour of flowers and aromatic substances, it tends to his preservation by warning him of the pre- sence of substances whose effluvia would endanger his health if they were not removed ; thus, by a wise provision of the Author of nature, what would be hurtful is rendered disagreeable. The taste, also, answers a double purpose ; it renders the neces- sary act of supplying the stomach with food agreeable, while, for our preservation, it is so contrived, that many substances, which would be injurious, excite no such sensations, or very disagreeable ones. Some animals, it is probable, have this sense in a higher de- gree than man. • In the accounts of travellers we find that, in un- cultivated places, roots fit to be eaten were discovered, by observing the kind which the monkeys had selected for their food. The sense of hearing in man, besides tending to his preservation, answers seve- ral most important purposes. In him it is not so acute as in some of the lower animals, whose safety depends principally upon it ; but if it had been more so than it is, it would have been extremely in- convenient, and the bustle of the crowded streets of the metropolis VOL. II. 2 E 450 APPENDIX. perfectly intolerable ; it is, however, like all the rest of our senses, just adapted to our situation, and amply sufficient to apprise us of the approach of danger. Tlie ear has been so constructed as to receive pleasure from sounds : these are produced by particles of air, agitated by the tremulous motion of the parts of a body vibrating in unison ; that is, when the vibrations are multiples of each other, the vibrations of a musical string are almost inconceivably rapid. In the gravest harmonic sound they are 121^ in a second, whilst the shrillest sounding body makes 51,100 vibrations in the same portion of time. The greatest service rendered to us by the sense of hearing, is the facility which it gives of communicating our ideas and feelings to each other. The nature of this faculty, and its importance, are well described by Rollin : "Admirable, indeed are the provisions for the production of sound by the human voice. In the upper part of the trachea, or canal by which the air enters and is expelled from the lungs, is a little oval fissure, capable of opening more or less, called the glottis : as the opening of the glottis is very small, with respect to the capacity of the trachea, when air is forcibly driven through it, the velocity is considerably increased, and the lips of the glottis become violently agitated, occasioning those vibrations which produce sound : the sound thus formed is influenced by the cavities of the head, and even by the breast. •■' The glottis not only produces the sound, but even forms the tones ; and this is attributed to variations in its opening. It is capa- ble of becoming wider and narrower within certain small limus ; the fibres which compose it lengthen for the lov/ tones, and become shorter for the high ones. " To produce the various tones the diameter of the opening of the glottis, which is but one-twelfth of an inch, must be varied : there are modifications of every single tone, which require that this open- ing, small as it is, should be divided into 9,632 parts, and even these parts are not all equal ; some of them must therefore be less than the 9,632nd part of the twelfth part of an inch; but so delicate is the ear, that this variation is immediately perceived. Speech," as Rollin further observes, " is one of the great advantages which man possesses over other animals : while it serves as a proof of his rational faculties, it enables him to employ them to the greatest ad- vantage ; but how wonderful that adjustment, how exact that mechanism, by which it is produced 1 At the first command of the APPENDIX. 451 soul, how many different parts are brought into action to form the voice ! " I have a thought which I am disposed to communicate to others, or a doubt which I wish to have solved : nothing is more intellectual, or farther removed from the senses, than thought. What vehicle is capable of transferring it to the persons who surround me ? If I could not accomplish it, — shut up in myself, — reduced to a solitary individual, — cut off from all commerce, from all conversation, — I should suffer inexpressible disquiet. The most numerous company, the whole world, would be but a frightful solitude. But Providence has relieved me from this by attaching ray ideas to sounds, and ren- dering me master of those sounds. Thus, in the very moment, and at the precise instant that I am disposed to communicate my thoughts to others, the lungs, the throat, the tongue, the palate, the teeth, the lips, and an infinite number of organs concerned in it, are put in motion, and execute my orders, with a rapidity which almost more than keeps pace with my desires. The air proceeding from my lungs in tones, modified according to the variety of my sentiments, carries the sound into the ears of my auditors, and informs them of all that I wish to communicate. Thus ideas are conveyed and infor- mation diffused hv a natural mechanism which we can never suffi- ciently admire." While man resembles other animals in the structure of his body, which is merely the instrument of his will, he is, by the gift of other powers, placed at an immeasurable distance from them. By the faculty of reason he is distinguished from all other visible beings ; and by the immortal part, or soul, which constitutes his very essence, he is capable of communion with his Almighty Creator. Inferior animals, in consequence of instinct, act in one unifora:i round; but man is a free agent, capable of comparing, of judging, and deciding : he is at liberty to adopt one mode of conduct in preference to another, and is therefore accountable for his actions. He, alone, can compare and reason ; he, alone, is capable of per- ceiving those marks of contrivance and design, — that adaptation of all the operations of nature to one grand and beneficial result, which proclaim, in the strongest and most impressive language, that the whole must have originated from a Being infinite in wisdom, in power, and in goodness. But in vain does every thing which we behold conspire to force this great truth upon our notice, if we are so absorbed in the objects of sense as to be incapable of fixing our 2 E 2 452 APPENDIX. attention. How many do we see passing through hfe with no other ideas than those we may suppose famiUar to the brute ! but mark these men, so ardent in the pursuit of what they call pleasure, are they completely satisfied with the gratification of their animal appetites ? By no means. How many an aching void do they not experience ! to what ennui and chagrin are they not subject ! they cannot feel the satisfaction enjoyed by brutes, because they have higher destinies ; because they have an immortal part : they know what the beast is ignorant of, — that the present life must ter- minate, and the involuntary sigh arises for something beyond it. Placed, then, in so commanding a station, endowed with such faculties and powers, let it be our business to cultivate them for the noblest of purposes. We have seen in the course of these lectures how far knowledge may contribute to our bodily comfort and con- venience ; how it tends to enlarge our views and expand our minds, and, consequently, of what importance it is to cultivate our intellec- tual pai-t, and to do all in our power to difi'use hght and knowledge among mankind in general ; for this, by degrees, will put an end to that bigotry and superstition which tend to keep men in ignorance and a state of depression. Whenever we see attempts to put down schools, and to prevent the circulation of the Bible, we may always be sure that there is something wrong, something that will not bear the light. Though knowledge is power, yet every thing depends upon the use which we make of that power ; and we shall all of us certainly be accountable for the proportion of talents received. It is a humil- iatins: consideration, that while all the classes of inferior animals are constantly found performing the will of God, the only exception is to be found in man : — in man, who alone has been endowed with the faculty of knowing his Creator : — in man, who was destined to com- municate with him in a spiritual manner, and who was placed here, as in a state of preparation, for the enjoyment of His presence for ever. Good and evil are set before us : we are free to choose or to refuse ; and we may be all assured, that in proportion to the degree of hght and knowledge received, so will be the nature of the account at the final close ; for justice is no less an attribute of the Supreme Arbiter of the universe, than wisdom or power. But whilst the most courageous among the sons of men may be appalled at consi- dering this attribute, yet our gracious Creator is equally distinguished by that of mercy. Considering that we are but dust. He, in infinite APPENDIX. 453 compassion, provided the means, in the person of the Redeemer, for reconcihation with Himself; and this is the only means by which those who are brought to a true sense of their condition, can abide in the presence of Infinite Purity. I know that I am travelling out of the beaten road ; but having undertaken, on the preceding evenings, to explain to you what I have been permitted to understand of the works of our Almighty Creator, and having discovered in them such wisdom, such power, such benevolence, can I refrain from pointing to Him, the Author of it all, aud ascribing the glory where alone it is due .'' Can T, when speaking of the goodness so evidently displayed in the material world, forbear to advert to that greatest of blessings, which, in his infinite love. He has bestowed upon us, by the coming of the Son of God in the flesh ? When 1 feel a warm interest in your future happiness, and see clearly the path which will lead to it, and when I reflect that, probably, there are manv of you present whose faces I shall see no more, ought I to refrain from speaking out bold- ly upon subjects of such unspeakable importance? I know that the views which I take, are, unhappily, in some quarters, not very fashionable ; that they are even humiliating to that philosophical pride which spurns at every thing beyond the comprehension of its limited capacity ; but how far this is just; or reasonable, or really philosophical, we shall presently examine. The Supreme Being, though not an object of our senses, like the masses of matter with which we are daily and hourly conversant, is, nevertheless, actively present with us, influencing that immortal part in His rational creatures, which is also of a nature wholly different from any thing in the material world. He must be deficient, indeed, in intellect, who cannot discover, that a power, far surpassing any thing conceivable by human capacity, must have been at work in all that surrounds him. " In Him," it has emphatically been said, " we live, and move, and have our being." Invisible in His nature and essence. He is constantly influencing our minds to all that is virtuous. To Him we owe every good thought, every virtuous determination : and as He wills the happiness of all His creatures, we are sure that when we dry up the tear of the widow and the fatherless, when we succour the distressed and afflicted, when we endeavour to promote peace and good will among men, we are performing the will of God. To cherish these dispositions and feelings is of more importance than the great bulk of mankind imagine. They become stronger by exercise, and tend, by degrees, to bring the mind into that harmony 9, T^ S 4 5 4 APPENDIX. with the Divine will, in which there is not the least disposition to hurt or to destroy. On the other hand, they shut themselves out from ahundant sources of joy and consolation, who harden their hearts against these henign sensations ; who, puffed up with a foolish pride in consequence of their imaginary attainments, refuse to helieve any thing which is not cognisable by their natural senses and faculties. But until a part shall be proved to be greater than the whole, — until it shall be shown t\\?Lt finite can comprehend infinite, — the well-regulated mind must look, with son'ow and amazement, at men undertaking to measure the ways and operations of Infinite Wisdom by their little standard, and giving rash decisions upon the conduct of the Supreme Intelligence. It would not be so much matter of sui^prise if these unhappy individuals were found only in the class of the uneducated and ignorant part of mankind ; but what shall we say for those to whose eyes the ample page of science has been unrolled, but who, notwithstanding, with inverted ambition, have struggled to descend below the dignity of their nature, and claim kindred with the brutes, who know not God. To them we may apply the language of Dr. Young : "With the talents of an angel, a man may be a fool : if he judge amiss in the supreme point, judging right in all else does but aggravate his folly." If, then, all that we admire in nature must have been the work of a kind and an almighty hand, — if we are convinced that all the powers we possess are derived from Him, and sufficient only to give us ^ faint glimpse of His infioile perfection,— is it too much to ask, that we should humbly trust in Him for what must be above our comprehension, and rely, with confidence, that in a future state of being, what is now merely the object of faith, will then become matter of absolute certainty "i These are the applications which may fairly be made of all that has occupied our attention during the course of these lectures ; and it is no small consolation to reflect, that precisely similar conclusions have been drawn from the same premises, by the most distinguished ornaments of science. Sir Isaac Newton, Bo^de, and Locke, together with other illustrious characters, who laid the foundation of all those discoveries which will render the present age so conspicuous in the annals of time, had exactly the same ideas upon these important sub- jects, as those which have been brought forward this evening. These great men were not ashamed to acknowledge their conviction of the APPENDIX. ^ 455 truths of revealed religion ; and that, in tracing tlie links of the chain, which, hcginning at the lowest order of created heings, termi- nates at the throne of God, tlie most acute individurd would soon come to a point below, as well as above himself, at which he could only pause and adore. Indeed, our very existence is not more cer- tain than that of an over-ruling, superintending Providence : a con- viction of His omnipresence has been the consolation of the wise and good in all ages of the world ; and the effects of that conviction are described with peculiar force by one of the most elegant writers which this countrvhas produced. The celebrated Addison exclaims : " How happy is an intellectual being, who, by prayer and medita- tion, opens a communication between God and his own soul ! Though the wdiole creation frown upon him, and all nature look black about him, he has his light and support within him, that are able to cheer his mind, and bear him up in the midst of all those horrors which encompass him. He knows that his helper is at hand, and is always nearer to him than any thing else can be, which is capable of annoying or terrifying him. In the midst of calumny or contempt, he attends to that Being wdio whispers better things within his soul, and whom he looks upon as his defender, his glory, and the lifter up of his head. In his deepest solitude and retirement, he knows that he is in company w^ith the greatest of Beings ; and perceives within himself such real sensations of His presence, as are more delightful than any thing that can be met with, in the conver- sation of his creatures.. Even in the hour of death, he considers the pains of his dissolution to be nothing else but the breaking down of that partition which stands betwixt bis soul and the sight of that Being who is always present with him, and is about to manifest himself to him in fulness of joy." As, then, the Supreme Being is not cognisable by our natural senses, and as the immortal part of man is also invisible, it is not inconsistent with reason to conclude, that the spiritual part of us may be immediately influenced by that power which created it ; that He may, in former times, have communicated His will to intelligent beings, in a supernatural manner ; that these having recorded the impressions made upon them, a written revelation may have been entrusted to mankind. That this has been done in the case of the Holy Scriptures, we must firmly believe ; for when we consider the tendency of the precepts there given for the conduct of life, and how 456 APPENDIX. eminently they are calculated to promote the happiness and well- being of the human race, not only during the short period of their natural lives, hut in the interminable state which is to follow ; when we see that the object of these divine precepts is to produce peace on earth and good will among men, and also consider that one of the most glorious attributes of the Deity is love, the source, from v/hich these precepts have originated, becomes apparent, and there is no longer room for doubt. As it is clear, then, that the dispensations of the Divine Being have a reference to the happiness of man, it follows that the exercise of benevolence and deeds of mercy must, in a peculiar manner, be con- sistent with His will. It seems, indeed, that by an ordinance of His providence, these acts are made a source of the purest pleasure. "If," says a celebrated author, "thou doest good to man, as an evidence of thy love to God, that peace which is the foretaste of Paradise shall be thy reward on earth." And I need not tell those who are engaged in the medical profession, ho:^/ many opportunities they have of exercising the best feelings of the heart. They will be called to see human nature under the most afflicting and trying circum- stances. It is when the mind is subdued by misfortune, and when the body is oppressed with disease and pain, that the value of the balm of sympathy is most fully appreciated. He who is qualified to administer it, under these circumstances, may be regarded as an angel of mercy, a delegate from heaven. Your profession is a liberal one, and it is expected that your conduct should do honour to that profession. It is not enough that you merely bring to it that knowledge which is essential to the cure of diseases, —suffering humanity requires some- thing more : it requires soothing manners, it demands sensibility of heart, and those exalted feelings which distinguish the man and the Christian, These qualifications are necessary to the complete char- acter of a medical man : they will not only be acceptable in the sight of God, but being congenial with every noble sentiment of the heart, will powerfully contribute to advance even your temporal interest, and enable you to make your way in the world. J" . In all your commerce with mankind, and in every action of your lives, endeavour to be guided by that sense of right and wrong which is given to every human being, and which is only lost by continued disobedience to manifested duty. Let truth be your constant object : pursue it with noble simplicity, and you will disdain cu/mi/iff, for there will be nothing which you could wish to hide. If you should APPENDIX. 457 ever be placed in delicate circumstances, where your duty may seem opposed to your temporal interest, dare to do right, trusting to Him who sees in secret, and who will not fail to reward you openly. "While you thus act from principle, you cannot but be happy ; for none have more right to be cheerful, none enjoy the good things even of this life more fully, than those who are endeavouring to be found in the performance of their duty to God and to man : such have no cause for anxiety as to the future : they know that they are under the protection of the greatest of beings ; and He will bless them with that internal tranquillity, with that peace of mind, which the wealth of the Indies cannot purchase, and which nothing in this world can deprive them of. He will support them through the trials of time, and when these are over, will receive them to Himself in a happy eternity. The signs of the tim^es we live in, are interesting in no common deo-ree. Never, perhaps, in the annals of mankind was so much ac- tive benevolence at work, never on so extensive a scale ; and grati- fvino- must it be to our feelings as Englishmen, that the centre of these operations is in our own beloved countiy ; that from Great Britain, hght is breaking forth and spreading into all lands : it shines from our public institutions for ameliorating the condition of man, and from none with rays more diffusive than from the British and Foreign School Society. This institution, by its comprehensive and liberal plans, has long been preparing the means for the spread of light and knowledge, through the great mass of the people, all over the world. It put France in motion from one end to the other. Schools for the poorest of the people were formed in all the depart- ments, with the sanction of government ; and though a sinister policy has been too successfully exerted to check them, it will be impossible wholly to stop the good work, but it must, from the progress of light and knowledge, and the nature of the human mind, break forth again under more favourable circumstances. In Russia, Germany, Prussia, and Sweden, the plan is embraced ; it has even been adopter! in Spain, and is making rapid progress in the East Indies. In ivorth and South America this system of instruction is pervading immense districts, and even in Africa schools have been established. The moral effects which this institution must necessa- rily produce are incalculable ; and its ultimate success will be greatly accelerated by the stimulus it has given, and continues to give to rival institutions, which sprang up after its first establishment, and 458 APPENDIX. which, although not conducted on the same comprehensive and effi- cacious plan, are all contributing to form part of the great work. Education may be regarded as the plough which breaks up the fallow ground and eradicates the weeds, which prepares the untutored mind for the reception of the truths of religion. And see the British and Foreign Bible Society preparing for the harvest, by scattering the good seed through every clime, " From the vi^orld's girdle to the frozen pole," while pious individuals, of various religious persuasions, are running to and fro to increase that knowledge, on which tiie present and future well-being of the great human fainily depends. Surely these things speak in language not to be misunderstood. May we not hope that the era is advancing, foretold by prophecy, when •' the know- ledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the sea" ? When one song shall employ all nations ; then shall " The dwellers in the vales, and on the rocks, Shout to each other ; and the mountain tops From distant mountains catch the flying joy, Till nation after nation, taught the strain, Earth rolls the rapturous hosanna round." COWPES. EXD OF VOL. II. Brighton :— Printed by .■^rtuur Wallis, Printer, &c., No. 5, Bartholomews. This book is a preservation photocopy. It is made in compliance with copyright law and produced on acid-free archival SOU book weight paper which meets the requirements of ANSI/NISO Z39.48-1992 (permanence of paper) Preservation photocopying and binding by Acme Bookbinding Charlestown, Massachusetts 2001 COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES 0059424028