(Cnlumbia MniuerHitg in tl]e (Eitg of Neuj ^ork THE LIBRARIES Bequest of Frederic Bancroft 1860 - 1945 '"'^-i (yy Samuel J'^'"^" ' ^^--7-1^ LIFE ^ND TIMES OF Rey. Robert Dobbins. TO WHICH IS APPENDED BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF EEVS. J. W. RAG AI( AND W. L. DMLAP. By CHARLES CADDY, MINISTER OF THE METHODIST CHUBCH. He died in a good old age, full of days, riches and honor.— 1 Chbon. xxix. 28. PHILADELPHIA : J. W. DAXIGHADAY & CO., 424 WALNUT STREET. SPRINGFIELD, 0., A. H. BASSETT. 1868. )^' 4- . 1^ 9 -^P- <^ Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1868, by CHARLES CADDY, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court in and for the Eastern Dis- trict of Pennsylvania. -^ ^ 'J3 DEDICATION. TO THE SENIOR MINISTERS OF THE METHODIST CHURCH WITH WHOM THE SUBJECT OF THESE PAGES WAS IDENTIFIED IN- ADVOCATING THE PRINCIPLES OF ECCLESI- ASTICAL LIBERTY; AND TO THE YOUNG MINISTERS OF THE SAME DENOMINATION, TO WHOM HE WAS AN AFFECTIONATE FRIEND AND WISE COUNSELLOE, THIS VOLUME IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED BY THE AUTHOR. PREFACE. Age, connected with experience and mental culture, is generally modest and unassuming. Especially is this so when purity of life is the crowning gem, giving to age its chastened beauty, to experience its wonted luster, and to the cultivated intellect its moral greatness. A spirit thus endowed with the elements of natu- ral and moral worth, is very liable to under- value its own power, and to speak with becom- ing diffidence of its own efficiency and success. A biographical sketch of one whose life was in harmony with the higher law, admitted to be true, in all its essentials, by the one whose life it proposes to furnish, will, in the general, fall below the truth — seldom, if ever, rising above it. The facts grouped together in this volume were obtained at intervals from the venerable preacher, the subject of this book, some time previous to his death, and the manuscript read to him, and by him pronounced true. So, whatever may be the deficiencies of this volume in a critical point of view, whether in (5) 6 PREFACE. connection with biographical narration, data, or composition, will be compensated, in part, at least, by the fact that what is here written is true. Aged men almost universally fall into an error with regard to the influence of age upon the mental powers, especially the power of memory. They appear to think that when the vigor of youth has passed away, and they have fallen into the " sere and yellow leaf," and are no longer adapted to the active services of professional life, they may then write upon subjects of past interest for their own entertain- ment and the benefit of mankind ; but experi- ence has taught them, when too late, that they were sadly mistaken. When the effort to re- produce is made, they are surprised that they remember so little. The very best gems that were drawn from the mental storehouse in earlier years are gone beyond recovery, and the very best effort at reproduction is almost fruitless. I know that there are exceptions to this statement,, but they are rare; and the excep- tions do not invalidate the general truth — a truth confirmed by the testimony of age. Such was the testimony of the venerable divine whose life we propose to write, as effi- ciently as the material at command wiU enable PREFACE. 7 US to do. The reader, however, will not be under the necessity of plodding over a barren heath in reading these pages. He will find ingots of gold in the facts presented. He will discover mines of rare value as he traces the history of a rugged intellect battling with the adversities of life. He will see the happy effect and final triumph of success, as a result of a persistent effort of mind. The youth of our land, who enjoy advantages their fathers never knew, may here learn a lesson of priceless value ; the aged, who linger among the people of another generation, may trace the footsteps of a veteran warrior, and be interested in the perusal of these pages. We now come, with a willing hand and a subdued heart, to rear this little monument to the memory of mental and nioral worth. At present it lies in silent majesty before us. We simply desire to lift it up, if we can. It is a granite shaft, incomplete in detail, it may be, for some of its finest relief- work has been so far obliterated by the hand of time that no human eye may see it; but the light of the coming future will bring out the hidden characters, and reveal the perfection of outline, with all its details, in the full blaze and brilliancy of the throne. 8 PREFACE. / We send this volume forth with a like- ness engraved from an ambrotype, taken under the author's supervision, with the hope that it may quicken our exertions, elevate our affections, and be a guiding star, subsidiary to the peerless page of Inspiration, until we are together brought to the enjoyment of the favor and fruition of God. C. CADDY. Lima, Ohio, July 23, 1868. CONTENTS. CHAPTER I. Preliminary Remarks — Ancestors — Births-Childhood — Character of his Mother — Her Denominational Prejudices — Listens to a Sermon hy a Methodist Minister — Her Opinion of the Sermon — Unites with the Methodist Episcopal Church — Family Government — Influence over her Family — Early Education of young Robert — The Chamber of Prayer— Reflections. CHAPTER 11. The Past and the Present— Hlustrations— Limited Educational Advan- tages—A Striking Contrast— Improvements of the Present Age a Source of Interest — Limited Facilities for Improvement not the worst Feature in the Case — Scarcity of Books — Had to depend upon a Home Education — The Importance of Mental Efi"ort— Query— His Manner of Study— A Rapid, but not a Careless Reader— Nature's Laws— Injury to his Sight. CHAPTER III. Departure from Home — Absent Eighteen Years — The Realities of Life — In Bad Company — Invited by a Quaker to attend Methodist Meeting — Rev. Jacob Lurton — Rev. Samuel Tucker — Mirthfulness in Church — Convicting Power — Great Thoughts — Decision of Mind — Returns to his former Wicke* Practices more fully than ever — Marriage — Resolves to Reform — Unites with the Methodist Episcopal Church — Bishop Asbury proclaims a Fast— Attends a Prayer-Meeting— Con version-^Eeflectious. 10 CONTENTS. CHAPTER lY. Appointed Class Leader— Rev. Daniel Hitt— Rev. William Beanchamp —Rev. Win. Ross— Invited to lead class— Interview with Mr. Walker —Believer in a Divine call to the Ministry— Removal— Rev. Asa —Sliiiin— Polemical disputatious for Mutual Improvement— Anecdotes of Rev. Mr. Shinn— Appoints a Prayer MeotiLg— Preparations of the Heart— Description of the Congregation— Reads one of Wesley's Sermons- Extemporaneous Sermon— Elfects 57—70 CHAPTER Y. Engaged in Trading— Blennerhassett's Island— Mr. Blennerhassett and v^^ife—Death of Mr. Dobbins' Mother— Rev. Mr. Dewey— Impressions made upon Mr. Dobbins on hearing of his Mother's death— Lorenzo Dow— Rev. Mr. Williamson— Rev. Abbott Godard— Confession of David Beckett, a man condemned to die— His execution— Quotations —Camp Meeting— Sermon— Quotation— Prayer of a Sea Captain— His Conversion 71 — 84 CHAPTER YI. Removal— Ordained to Deacon's Orders by Bi.shop Asbury— To Elder's Orders by Bishop McKendree— Removal— Great Reformation— The boy Henry Bascom— Engaged in a Trading Tour— An affray at Natchez- Mr. Dobbins' Sermon— His views endorsed by a Natchez Editor- Conversation with a Slave— Attends a Camp-meeting— Description of the Ground— Services— Failure in Trade— Involved in Debt- Starts for Home— Confined by Sickness in Natchez— A Slave Family — Toney 's Story — Arrival Home S.5^96 CHAPTER YIL Sells his Farm to pay his Debts— Rents a Farm— Removal to White Oak— Buys a Farm— Death of his Wife— Travels a Circuit— Second Marriage— Embarrassed on account of Security Debts — Sent to the Legislature of Ohio— Political Preferences— Removal to Fayette CONTENTS. 11 Connty, Ohio — Settles five and a half miles west of Washington C^ H. — Urged to make Stump Speeches, but declines — Preaches a Sermon in Wilmington, Ohio, to his constituents, in which he points out their duty as American citizens — Reflections — His Influence in the Ohio Legislature — Church Government — Union Societies — He is Chairman of a Union Society — Rev. A. McGuire — Revs. J. Flood, sr., and J. Dalbey, sr. — Mr. Dobbins makes application to the proper authorities of the Methodist Episcopal Church for a letter of his standing — Attends the Second Session of the Ohio Annual Conference of the Associated Methodist Churches — A Call from the West- Appointed to Concord Circuit— Rev. A. H. Bassett — Anecdote — Reflections 97—110 CHAPTER YIII. Re-appointed to Concord Circuit— Success — Preaching in a Saw .Mill- Rev. Benj. Ryan — Appointed to Highland Circuit, with B. Ryan, Assistant — Division of the Ohio Annual Conference — Traveling on Concord Circuit — Local Itinerancy — Reflection!; — Elected to the Presi- dency of the Ohio Annual Conference — Letter — Appointed to Xenia and Rehoboth Circuit, with Rev. I. Edwards as Assistant — Re-ap- pointed to the same Circuit, with Rev. 0. P. Stephens, Assistant — Appointed to Clarksville Circuit — Appointed to the Superintendency of Sugar Creek Circuit — Extract from a Letter — Cholera — A Fast Day appointed by President Taylor — Fast Day Services — Rev. Daniel Riley — A Sermon by Mr. Riley — His Character — Death. 111—125 CHAPTER IX. Mr. Dobbins requested and obtained a Superannuated Relation to the Conference— Reflections— Quotations — Death of Rev. Sanford H. Euans— Funeral Services at the Ohio Annual Conference, on the Death of Mr. Euans— Continued Labors— Quotations from Letters — Death of Mr. Dobbins' Daughter Eliza— Poem by Mrs. A. H. B. 126—138 12 CONTENTS. CHAPTER X. Meeting in the Old Union Chapel In Fayette County, Ohio — Labors ( wiiile sustaining a Superannuated Relation to the Conference- Farewell Exhortation — Sickness — Note to the Editor of the Church Paper — Interviews with Mr. Henry Burnett, Esq. — State of his Mind — Illustrations — Mr. Dobbins' Views of the Dutie.*? of American Citi- zens — Particularly interested in certain passages of Scripture — Ilia Death — Burial — Tomb — Conference Resolutions — Reminiscence- Funeral at the Old Union Chapel— Services at Conference by Rev. William B. Evans 139—158 CHAPTER XL Truthfulness of our Narrative— Mr. Dobbins did not profess to be an Educated Man— He was a Diligent Student — An Able Defender of the Christian Scriptures against the Attacks of Infidelity — Possessed an Analytical Mind — Instructive in Private Conversation — Plain and simple in the Pulpit — Mental Independence — Social Character — Hia House a House of Prayer — He was the Young Preacher's Friend — Manner in the Pulpit — Never played the Orator — Made no preten- sions to an ornate style — Logic, rather than Rhetoric, his forte — Faith- ful in reproving Sin from the Pulpit — Personal Appearance — Mrs. Dobbins — Conclusion 157 — 170 SKETCHES OF REY. JOAB W. RAGAN. CHAPTER I. Preface — Parentage— Childhood— Surroundings— Reared by Pious Ptu reUits — Removal of his Father and Family to Beaver county, Penn- sylvania, in 1806 — Evinces a strong desire for the acquisition of knowledge — Determination to excel — A pleasure to see others make an effort in the Path of Improvement 175—182 CONTENTS. 13 CHAPTER 11. Determination to be a Christian — Conversion — Thoughts of the Minis- try — Incident — Preparation for the Ministry — Received into the Traveling Connection of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and ap- pointed io Brunswick Circuit — Appointed to Mansfield Circuit — Failure of Health — Ordained Deacon — Retires to Wooster — Engaged in the Study of the Hebrew and Greek Languages — Ordained Elder and appointed to Sandusky Circuit 183—187 CHAPTER III. Reform Movements — Appointed to Mad River Circuit — Letter to his Presiding Elder — Preaching in the vicinity of Pittsburgh — Received into the Ohio Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church, and appointed to Louisville. Kentucky — Marriage — Appointed to Zanes- ville, Ohio — Appointed to Cambridge Circuit — Popularity of his Min- istry — Interesting scenes connected with his last illness — His Death —Funeral — Conference Resolutions — Remarks 188 — 207 •♦>- BIOGRAPHY OF KEY. W. L. DMLAP. CHAPTER I. Preliminary Observations — Early Life of Mr. Dnnlap — Character of his Mother — Removal to the West — Death of his Father— Return of his Mother — Death of his Mother — Learns the Millwright trade with Mr. James Barnes— Amiable Character of Mr. Dnnlap— Manifested a talent for Preaching when a Boy 211 — ^227 14 CONTENTS. CHAPTER 11. Mental Conflicts — Preparation for the Ministry — Enters Green Acad- emy— Failnre of Health— Licensed to Preach — Recommended to the Pittsburgh Annual Conference — Assistant on Washington Circuit — Peculiar Mental DiflSculty — Returns Home greatly discouraged- Mental Conflicts 22&— 233 CHAPTER III. Receives an Appointment as Assistant to Rev. John Wilson on Mus- kingum Circuit — Reflections — Assistant to Rev. P. T. Laishley on Middletown Circuit — Preaches at a Camp-meeting — Appointed to Cambridge Circuit with Rev. John Burns — Popularity as a Preacher — Rev. Samuel Thompson — Appointed to the Superintendency of Monongahela Circuit with Rev. William Ross as Assistant — Decli- ning Health — An Address to the young people at Shepherd's Meeting- House — Illness — Receives a visit from Rev. Asa Shinn — Affecting Interview between Messrs. Shinn and Dunlap — Prayer in the Death- chamber — Dr. Laidley — The last words of Mr. Dunlap — Quotation — Funeral Sermon by Mr. Shinn — Obituary — Personal Appearance of Mr. Dunlap — Moral Characteristics — Religious Character — Mr. Dun- lap as a Student— Character as a Preacher— Reflections 234—250 INTRODUCTION. BY THE REV. ANCEL H. BASSETT, AGENT OF THE METHODIST BOOK CONCERN, SPBINGFIELD, OHIO. The biograpliy of distinguished men lias ever been esteemed a valuable branch of literature. Especially is the record of the lives of holy men of God found to be highly instructive and useful. Herein is verified the scriptural maxim, "He being dead yet speaketh." His pure example still shines — his chaste influence still wields its way for good. His works do follow him. Each religious denomination prizes the pub- lished lives of its eminent men. Copies are usually found in the families of the people whom they have served, and whose religious organization they have defended and labored to build up. The branch of Christians known as the Methodist Protestant Church has had, in its brief career, a due proportion of men eminent for talent and usefulness in their day, who are now no more. But it is a painful fact that the biographies of these men remain unwritten. Snethen, and Shinn, and others '^ of whom the (15) 16 INTRODUCTION. world was not worthy," have passed away, but no volume is issued to perpetuate the record of their eminent and useful career. Their precious memory is neglected, and the rising genera- tion knows comparatively little of them. This circumstance is to be regretted. Rev G. Brown has done well to prepare and publish his satis- factory and useful Autobiography. The author of the following work has done a valuable service towards supplying the desid- eratum above referred to. He has produced and placed on record an outline of the life of a valiant man of God, Rev. Robert Dobbins, one of the early ministers of the Methodist Protest- ant Church. Personally intimate with him in his life-time, he availed himself of the best facil- ities to obtain facts of interest, which he has faithfully sketched. We think the reader will find that he has done this service well. "We consider him entitled to the commendation and thanks of the church, and of the community who esteemed so highly the venerable subject of this volume. Nearly forty years ago, the writer of this Introductory Sketch became acquainted with Father Dobbins, as he was familiarly called. It providentially occurred that in the outset of his itinerant career, in 1830, he was for a time TNTRODUCTIO]S'. 17 placed under the oversight of Mr. D., who directed his labors and counseled him in his inexperience. His kindness and his sage advice were made a blessing to him, and they cannot be forgotten while life lasts. Concord Circuit, then so called, included, in whole or in part, the counties of Clinton, Fayette, Madison, Green and Clarke, in Ohio. As yet, but few classes had been organized, and the circuit had yet to be formed. The country was then mostly new, having in some parts extensive prairies, and in others large tracts in forest. The good super- intendent directed his junior to many points in the settlements and villages of the surrounding country, at considerable distances, to persons who, he presumed, would sympathize with us, in view of establishing appointments and form- ing a circuit. Prejudices against the new movement were to be encountered, and some opposition ; but wherever the hoy preacher went, he had but to say that Father Dobbins had sent him, and this gave him full passport to the houses and hearts of the people, and usually procured him appointments ; for every where his very name was revered, and he was by all classes regarded as an apostle of the Truth, as an angel in human flesh. If " a good name is better than precious ointment," how vastly 18 INTRODUCTION. important is it for a minister to be, in character and standing, "of good report," and to be " unblamable " and " without rebuke." Before such a minister, the mouths of gainsayers are ever stopped. Such a one was Father Dobbins. We believe he had no human enemy, and against him the enemy of souls had no power. The writer thinks he never knew a more unselfish man than Eobert Dobbins. Little in his own estimation, he desired not the praise of men, nor craved to be preferred before others. Thus humbling himself, he was "exalted," in attaining that which he sought not; for his brethren, and all who knew him, delighted to honor him and do him reverence. In his inter- course and co-operation with his ministerial brethren, he always desired them to do well, and to preach well. And he rejoiced in their success, not desiring to have the reputation of excelling them. His meek. Christian spirit commanded the love and esteem of all ; and we have sometimes thought him a remarkable exception to the maxim, "A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country." Those of Christ's ministers who observe the lesson in honor to "prefer one another," and in love to " serve one another," and who especially, in all things, aim to honor Christ, are in the way INTRODUCTION. 19 to enjoy the esteem of their fellows, and to secure also "the honor that cometh from God only." May the mantle of our venerable friend rest upon his surviving brethren, and may the influence of his holy example be long felt ! The writer could enter into reminiscences which might be appreciated, but space forbids. And it would not be right that he should detain the reader from the interesting volume which follows. Let it be read and re-read. Let its pubWcation be encouraged and sustained by a general purchase of the books. Let them have a rapid sale. Let the author and the publish- ers realize a success. And let us henceforth have a Biographical Literature in the Methodist Church. The encouragement given to this work may open the way for other volumes of similar character A. H. B. June 12, 1868. LIFE AND TIMES OF KEY. ROBERT DOBBINS. CHAPTER I. Preliminary Remarks— Ancestors— Birth— Childhood— Character of his Mother— Her Denominational Prejudices— Listens to a Sermon by a Methodist Minister— Her Opinion of the Sermon— Unites with the Methodist Episcopal Church— Family Government — Influence over her Family— Early Education of young Robert— The Chamber of Prayer — Reflections. THE places that gave birth to the distin- guished dead, and the interests and asso- ciations that clustered around their early infancy, may be matters of minor importance in them- selves, and yet the influence of association invests the cradle of genius with a romantic luster, exerting an uncontrollable influence upon our minds and hearts. A beloved friend of the writer, whose image lingers in the cham- ber of the heart, had occasion to say that ^' if a few such men as Walter Scott had lived, all Scotland would have been classic ground." This sentiment is simply an illustration of silent (21) 22 LIFE OF REV. ROliERT DOBBIXS. impression made by association, and, to some extent, gives character to sentiment and affection. This truism justifies the biographer in writing the early as well as the later life of his subject. We now propose to communicate the few facts we have at command relative to the ancestry and early life of Rev. Robert Dobbins. Ireland and Scotland are the places that gave birth to his ancestors. Robert Dobbins, Sr., his paternal grandfather, was born in Ireland, in the county of Down, and Daniel McClean, his grandfather by the mother's side, was born on the highlands of Scotland, and came to the American colonies in the year IT-il. His father, William Dobbins, was born in Pennsylvania, and was by profession a cabinet maker, and died at the age of eighty-four years. His mother, Mary Ann Dobbins, was born in Pennsylvania, and died in her fifty-third year. His father and mother were Presbyterians, and the parents of eleven children — four sons and seven daughters — all of whom, I believe, are now dead. Robert, the second born, the subject of these pages, first saw the light in Northampton county, Pennsylvania, April 20, 1768. Of his early childhood days we know, and, therefore, can say but little. The day- dreams of his childhood, lighting up his counte- HIS ANCESTRY AND BIRTH. 23 nance with innocent joy, we may never know ; the tremulous tones of his mother's voice vibra- ting upon his ear, and touching the tender chords of his beating heart, as he is gently led to the first altar of childhood to repeat his aightly orison before retiring to his trundle- bed, we were not permitted to hear; but we may easily imagine the appropriateness of an application of the following lines by "Amelia;" " How touching 'tis to see him clasp His dimpled hands in prayer, And raise his little rosy face With reverential air ! How simple is his eloquence — How soft his accents fall, When pleading witjj the King of kings To love and bless us all ! And when from prayer he bounds away With innocence and joy, Tlie blessing of a smiling God Goes with the sinless boy." The early associations that clustered around his forest home, and the bloom and beauty of the opening spring-time, awakening in his young imagination emotions of wonder and admiration, and leading him up ''through nature to nature's God," are away in the distant past, and we must be contented to imagine what we may not be permitted to hioio. We have, however, the best authority for saying that his mother was a' woman of rare 24 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. mental endowments, an excellent understand- ing and liberal views, though of limited educa- tion. She, with her husband, resided for a time in the State of New York, and being reared under the influence of the Presbyterian faith from early infancy, and Methodism being, at that time, in comparative incipiency, it is not a matter of surprise that she should be prejudiced against the latter denomination. The systematic forms, scrupulous exactness in an observance of the Holy Sabbath, and critical punctuality in attending to all the means of grace, which were characteristic of the church of her early choice, would, in her estimation, suffer by a comparison with the new sect that was every where spoken against. In process of time, this excellent lady had an opportunity of hearing a sermon by a Methodist minister. The fall of man and its consequences appear to have been the subject of discourse, and toward the close of the sermon the preacher enforced with pathos and power the importance of experimental religion. This sermon made a powerful impression upon her mind. As soon as she returned home, her eldest daughter asked her " what she thought of the sermon." She replied, ''I have heard the truth, if I never heard it before. These," CHARACTER OF HIS MOTHER. 25 said she, " are God's people, and they are my people." A revolution was wrought in her spiritual being, and from this time forth she lived in communion with the Methodist Epis- copal Church. In this transition from one ecclesiastical denomination to another, she did not under- value and persecute the church of her early years. This illiberal disposition was not in her nature. She simply preferred the latter form of Christianity, as being better adapted to her spirit- ual being. We do not over-estimate the quali- ties of this lady when we say that the authentic account which has come down to us justifies us in the belief that she was a model Christian mother. In the government of her family she was rarely equaled, perhaps never excelled. She was a good disciplinarian, not governed by momentary impulses in the government of her household, but controlled her children by the force of reason, and arguments drawn from the higher law. With such a mind and heart, it is not surprising that her moral power and influence were so efficient. Young Eobert received the rudiments of a religious education from his mother. He was taught the " Lord's Prayer" at that first altar of childhood, the mother's knee. Lessons of instruction were 26 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. often given him by his mother, when none but the eye of God saw them. See the sweet-spirited matron and her son in the quietude of the chamber of prayer, while listening seraphs bend to catch the vesper tones of love as they arise from a spirit baptized with the dews of Heaven ! For a moment all is silent as the quietude that reigned on high, so graphi- cally described by John in his Apocalyptic vision. It is not the silence of sorrow, but the majestic stillness that precedes the out-flowing )f a soul stirred to its utmost depths with emo- tions that none but a mother's heart can know. The stillness is broken. Listen 1 " Who made you ?" ''God." "Who redeemed you ?" ''The Lord Jesus." " Who sanctifies us ?" " The Holy Spirit." These and similar simple questionings over, she bows in prayer with her little boy, and invokes the divine blessing upon him, while his throbbing heart and earnest eye bespeak the mighty thoughts within, and " Heaven comes down their souls to greet, And glory crowns the mercy-seat." With this moral training it is not a matter RELIGIOUS TRAINING. 27 of surprise that the foundation was laid for that moral worth which was so bright and beautiful in after years. Dear reader, you will indulge us in the remark that, '' A mother's prayers and a mother's tears are of priceless value." The words, "My mother," fall with sweet and gentle power upon the soul of the stalwart man of fifty years, as well as upon the- spirit of the youth of eighteen as he goes forth upon the stage of active life. My young friend, you, who now read this page, remember that you have but one mother; remember her tears of affection, her painful anxieties for your welfare, her watchings and solicitude for your happiness, her nightly vigils when the pain of your throb- bing, fevered brow confined you to your bed. Remember, too, that when that loved one ''sleeps the sleep that knows no v/aking," every unkind word, every disobedient act, and every manifestation of fretful impatience towards her, will come rushing up from the store-house of snemory, and blight the budding blossoms of iiope in your soul, as you go out upon the stage )f life to battle with the difl&culties connected with your life-work. No wonder that the grave of a sainted mother is a consecrated spot ; no wonder that the birds 2S LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. sing more sweetly near her tomb, than in any other spot in all the consecrated ground; no wonder that the vesper hymn near that mound of earth sounds as soft and sweet, as that which angels use. It is a mother^s grave. Let her image hang in the hall of thine heart ; let affection's wreath be ever green; embalm her memory with a tear; and whea the sunset of life throws its golden beams upon thy pathway, may it be the prelude to an ever-enduring association with loved ones in Heaven ! THE PAST AND THE PRESENT. 29 CHAPTER II. The Past and the Present— Illustrations— Limited Educational Advan- tages—A Striking Contrast— Improvements of the Present age a Source of Interest — Limited Facilities for Improvement not the worst feature in the Case— Scarcity of Books— Had to depend upon a Home Educa- tion—The Importance of Mental Effort— Query— His Manner of Study —A Rapid, but not a careless Keader — Nature's Laws— Injury to his Sight. THE past and the present furnish a striking contrast in the various departments of science and art. The rapid progress made in connection with the physical sciences is well known. In astronomical investigations, geological researches, and in connection with all practical interests, the present indicates a practical pro- gress of centralized thought unknown to our fathers. The improvements of the present age startle the beholder; and before the cessation of excitement awakened by an inspection of one object of interest, another development of genius more astonishing still arrests our atten- tion, and invites our thought. The present is an age of literary, mechanical and benevolent progress. Men of thought have taken high vantage ground in these several connections Progress is the watch-word. 30 LIFE OF Ri:V. ROBERT DOlUilNS. Wherever \vc turn our eyes, we see this motto standing out in bold and impressive relief. If we look into the halls of seience, with all their wealth of practical appliances, we see written upon their classic walls Progress ; if we go into the studio of the sculptor, or the gallery of the painter, the chisel of the one, and the brush of the other, proclaim alike the sentiment Progress ; if we look into the several departments of benevolent enterprise, the ear is greeted and the heart charmed by the captivating motto, Pro- gress. Some may feel inclined to doubt the latter statement, and if measured by a select local standard, the doubt might well be enter- tained ; but when we take a survey of the great field of benevolent enterprise, we are encour- aged, not only by the munificent benefactions of the highly favored, but also in the growing interest manifested for the welfare of humanity by the Christian world. But to return to our main design : we remark that it is apparent to all, that there is a marked contrast between the past and present with respect to facilities for mental improvement. The rude log school- house of the past forms a striking contrast with the beautifully painted and comfortably arranged school-room of the present. TJien, fool's-cap windows, through which the willing THE PAST AND THE PRESENT. 31 sunliglit was wont to pour its rays for tlie bene- fit of the rural scholar were common ; nowy this primitive invention is superseded by some- thing more permanent and better adapted to personal convenience and comfort Tkeu^ an ample fire-place, monopolizing one end of the rude structure, before which the big and • little ones, arrayed in linsey-wolsey,would gather, after a two or three miles' walk, to warm their half- frozen feet, was not uncommon; now, the advan- tages in this connection are patent to all. Then^ a rude slab, supported by pins in the log wall, formed the writing-desk of the future man and the coming house-wife ; now^ even the improve- ments in this connection are being laid aside, and the latest patent eagcrl}^ sought, and money lavishly paid from the public treasury to meet the demands of the age, Tlien^ the seats were in harmony with the desks, sufiiciently light and portable for practical purposes, and yet heavy enough to bar out the master on holidays ; but now^ the student has no right to complain, but enjoys comparative comfort while passing through an incipient course of preparatory in- struction. "We rejoice in these improvements in connec- tion with educational interests, and we cannot feel too deeply interested for the education of 32 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. the ivhoh: man ; his moral, as well as his intel- lectual nature, should be trained for usefulness on earth and happiness in heaven. It is unfor- tunate that in our own and other lands the education of the heart is so much neglected. Every effort is made to store the mind with the philosophies of the age, while the heart remains like a neglected garden, uncultivated, unim- proved. And as a result of this defective edu- cation, we have skeptical philosophers in our midst, ever ready to " speak evil of the things that they understand not;" and the Apostle assures us that such ''shall utterly perish in their own corruption." Much has been said concerning the supremacy of intellect, its God- like nature — that it ought to control man's lower being ; truths which few are disposed to deny. We may, however, institute the inquiry, and ask, Is it so ? With that class of humanity who have not the fear of God before their eyes, is it true that intellect governs? Does an enlightened judgment control? Are such per- sons governed by the clearest convictions of their own minds ? Alas ! the fearful negative, Ko! No! is heard where'er we look. The testimony of Scripture, corroborated by obser- vation, is, that the God-like intellect of man is controlled by a perverted animal nature. The THE PAST AND THE PRESENT. 33 spectacle is humiliating, it is true, to see a splendid mind under the influence of a high state of literary culture, that should hold the reins of government and control the whole man, become a willing vassal to a low, degra- ded moral nature. But so it is. The untamed lion in the heart claims and and holds full possession of the entire man, while the intellect, with all its boasted wisdom and splendid attainments, is davih before the potent enemy. Men love sin, and by this love they are controlled ; hence it is a truism, that '' A man with the talents of an angel may be a fool." The inspired page points directly to this grand difficulty in such passages as the follow- ing : " The fool hath said in his heart, there is no God." " The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked." " With the Ibeart, man belie veth unto righteousness." " My son, give me thy heart" There is little hope for man without a chang^e of heart. o We need the Spirit of God to impress the truth upon the mind, so that truth may find its way through the intellect to man's moral being, and so his whole nature undergo a thorough transformation, for if "any man be in Christ, he is a netu creature ; old things have passed away, and behold! all things have become new." 3 34 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. We rejoice in unmistakable indications of a growing interest in connection with the educa- tion of the whole man — mental, moral and physical. Christians throughout our land appear to be awake to the fact that the edu- cation of the heart as well as the intellect, is the hope of the church and of the world. If we may venture to speak denominationally, we would say, that one of the most hopeful signs in connection with the Methodist Church, may be seen in our own Adrian and Henry Colhges, both under the control of Christian Presidents, from whom we have encouraging reports of religious prosperity in the institutions over which these competent Christian gentlemen pre- side. And we indulge the hope that the time is not far distant when mental improvement and baptismal blessings will be happily blended and fully enjoyed by every student in every temple of learning in the land. The limited facilities for mental improvement, to which we have referred on a previous page, is a subject worthy of thought by the student of the present day. And as the aspirant for literary honors looks upon the past and present in the light of contrast, we may reasonably suppose it would have a tendency to quicken exertion and give energy to faith. It has been THE PAST AND THE PRESENT. 35 said that " opportunities make men." Tliis is doubtless true ; hence there is no good reason why there should not be 7nen in mental culture all around us. The history of the past furnishes an evidence that it is true, also, that men have made their opportunities. There were men of power in the past, whose facilities for improve- ment were very limited. They always had some thought upon the mental anvil, working it out, and tracing it out, in its minute relations, thus securing to the undying soul a wealth of wisdom that the world could not buy. Are not Franklin and Ferguson practical illustrations of the truth just stated? We see in the one a man whose philosophical investigations aston- ished the world, and in the other a contributor to astronomical science, the value of which has rendered his name ever-living. Hugh Miller and Burritt have rendered their names as immortal as tlie world in which they lived. The one a prodigy in geological science, who could find ''sermons in stones," and the other, the Lingue Prodigiiim, standing at his forge with sleeves rolled up, and as the crack- ling sparks fly from the white-heated bar, there are living sparks of mental fire, flitting through the brain, revealing their beauty from the eye, and finally poured forth upon the heart of 36 LIFE OF UEV. ROHKRT DOBBINS. Iminauity in "words tliat burn." It is said that "Drew" was a shoemaker, and yet, witli the humility of his origin and avocation, he gave to humanity some of the finest works upon metaphysical science the world ever saw. We might here institute the inquiry, Did these men make their opportunities? or did their opportunities make them ? The plaudits of the past and present generations have already answered. Be not deceived, my youthful reader, but re- member that it is thought, it is study, that strength- ens the ligaments of the mind ; it is this that gives power to the God-like soul. The limited educational advantages to which we have referred, as unfavorable as they may appear, were not the worst feature in the case. Even the meager facilities for improvement in the past were not ahcays available to our forefathers. Such was the case with young Mr. Dobbins. Schools in the mountain districts in Pennsylvania were few and far between. And although school books are now scattered like forest leaves among the people, then they were scarce and difficult to command ; and as a result, many children were under the necessity of depending upon a home education. They were compelled to plod their weary way up the THE PAST AND THE PRESENT. 37 hill of science, in many instances alone. They had to think for themselves — they were com- pelled to dig for the precious treasures of knowledge, and when a treasure is thus ob- tained, it is generally appreciated. Query : Does not this fact account for the diamond strength of intellect of many of the old divines? They reac/ comparatively little, but thought much. It is to be feared that many now read much, but think little. The former should not be neglected, and the latter is essential to true manhood. Mr, Dobbins, at this early period in life, had an uncontrollable thirst for knowledge, and was sub- ject to all the disadvantages to which we have referred. If he heard of a volume of value in the hands of a distant friend, he was sure to avail himself of it, if possible. In this way a few books of merit fe'll into his hands, and he would pore over their contents with all the interest of a soul fully determined to improve its immortal powers. He was not favored with a carpeted studiOj with lamp or candle, and a voluminous library with all its accompaniments — such as would be calculated to gratify the taste of an aspiring student now! But you may see him in the quiet evening-tide, as the golden sunbeams lay upon the mountains, shedding a mellow graa- 38 LIFE OF REV. ROBERF DOlilMNS. deur upon the lofty pines of his forest home, wending his way to the woods to gather knots of pine to throw liglit upon the dusky page from which he may glean the coveted treasures of knowledge. The preliminaries being thus arranged, see him in his forest home lying upon his breast before the fire, poring over his much loved volume, even until day dawns. Such was his desire for mental improvement, that he frequently subjected himself to this rude discipline; and yet, with all these disadvan- tages, his knowledge of historical literature, in after years, would compare favorably with many of the present day, whose facilities for improve- ment were far superior. He was a rapid reader. He informed the writer that he read '' Rollins' Ancient History" through in two months. Though rapid in tracing the thread of histori- cal narrative, he was not a careless reader. He possessed a mind to grasp and an under- standing to comprehend as soon as the eye fell upon the printed lines. Thus historical knowl- edge was stored away in the chamber of memory for future use; and when old in years, he was able to command not only the leading facts of history, but to some extent its minute relations. It is noble, it is worthy of all praise, to improve the God-like powers given us ; but it MANNER OF STUDY. 39 should be remembered that man's mental, as well as his physical being, is governed by law, and we cannot violate the law of either with impunity. The soul and hody are precious gifts from God. In the legitimate use of them, mental and physical health are preserved, and a reasonable prospect of a happy old age. If you would preserve a building from decay, let a tenant occupy it; if you would preserve an implement of husbandry from rust, use it ;' if you would preserve the mind from imbecility, think — learn something new every day ; if you would have a vigorous body, exercise its powers ; if you would be useful to humanity and make an impression upon the age in which you live, do something that will be of service to your race ; so that when you are gathered to your fathers, the living may look away to the mellow light reflected from your sepulchre, and remem- ber the virtuous deeds that adorned, like a fringe of golden beauty, your pilgrimage through life. We have said that Mr. Dobbins had an un- controllable desire for knowledge ; we here add, that a too close application to reading at this early period, resulted in an injury to his sight, from which he never fully recovered. 40 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. CHAPTER III. Departure from Home— Absent Eighteen Years— The Realities of Life — In Bad Company — Invited by a Quaker to attend Methodi.st Meeting — Rev. Jacob Lurton — Rev. Samnel TucKer — MirthfnlneKs in Church — Convicting Power — Great Thoughts — Decision of Mind — Returns to his former Wicked Practices more fully than ever — Marr'age— Resolves to Reform — Unites with the Metliodist Episcopal Church — Bishop Asbury proclaims a Fast — Attends a Prayer-Meeting — Con version— Reflections. THE love of adventure is an element univer- sally connected with a mind like that of our young hero. Bold, fearless and decisive, he generally accomplished whatever he under- took. This love of adventure increased as he approached the period of manhood, and impelled him, at the age of eighteen years, to leave the home of his youth, and try his fortune upon the rough sea of life. He intended, however, to remain away but a short time, and then return to the society of loved ones at home ; but when once out upon the busy sea of actual experience, amidst its excitements and varied interests, and subjected to disappointed expectations, contrary to his own intentions and the calculations of his friends, he was absent from home eighteen years. It is seldom the case that the young man who goes forth from the parental roof to battle with DEPARTURE FROM HOME. 41 the scenes of life realizes the idea of his hopes. The dreams of pleasure, profit, and comparative ease, that imagination marked upon the scroll of destiny, he may never enjoy; but will probably learn from that most ef&cient of all teachers, experience, that the elements of life are real. Mr. Dobbins directed his course to Conemaugh, Pa., a place better known by the name of Ligonier Valley, and then to Cannonsburgh. Here he fell into wicked company, and realized by experience the truth of the declaration that '•'evil communications corrupt good manners." He gave himself up to dissolute habits, but still retained what the world calls a sense of honor, possessing a spirit too noble to be guilty of what high-minded sinners would call a mean action. He was at this time in the service of a Quaker gentlemen, by whom, on a certain occasion, he was addressed as follows : " Robert, wilt thou go with me to Methodist meeting to-day?" Robert consented, and in due time prepared to accompany his employer to the place of worship. The meeting was held in a dwelling-house ; there were two ministers present, Revs. Jacob Lurton and Samuel Tucker. Mr. Tucker, the preacher on this occasion, had been absent from the neighborhood for some time, residing temporarily in Kentucky. 42 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. During bis absence he liad become a subject of converting grace, and had received license from tlie proper authorities of the Methodist Episco- pal Church to preach the Gospel. On his return home, all were anxious to hear him preach, lie who had a short time before left them a wicked man, a practical opposer of the Christian fiitli, now returned a preacher of that Gospel he once despised, and, as might have been expected, the people flocked from all quarters to the place of meeting. Young Robert took his seat on an old chest in one corner of the room, and the services com- menced. The preacher was a " son of thunder," and proclaimed the truth in the spirit of his Master; but notwithstanding the point and power of the preacher, during the early part of the sermon the attention of Robert was drawn to several young ladies who sat nearly opposite him ; these ladies were more interesting, in his eyes, than either the preacher or the congrega- tion. These mirthful emotions, however, were destined soon to give place to other thoughts : for towards the close of the discourse, the preacher's emotions rose with the occasion, and, as if struggling under the pressure of present responsibility, to meet the emergencies of the hour, his soul was brought into close and inti- REV. SAMUEL TUCKER. 43 mate sympathy with God. Under the influence of this high spiritual condition, his right hand and foot were simultaneously raised, one descending heavily upon the table and the other upon the floor, accompanied with the exclamation, "Sin- ner ! if your sins were written upon you, you would be as black as damnation." This sudden exclamation, uttered in a terrible voice, broke the link of attraction between Eobert and the young ladies, and gave a different turn to his thoughts. Mr Lurton then rose in the spirit of his Master, with a heart all aglow with the inspiration of the occasion, and poured forth the truths of revelation in "thoughts that breathe and words that burn." All hearts tremble in the breeze, and the vivid flashes of inspired truth, bursting forth from the soul of the God-like preacher, are shot through the heart of the hard- ened sinner, awakening emotions of alarm, while others are weeping aloud, for a storm- cloud of convicting power has descended upon that audience in a cabin in the wilderness, and and the people fall as dead men in all directions, so that the Gospel was felt to be, on that day, the "power of God unto salvation." Young Eobert trembled, and his soul was stirred to its utmost depths, and to avoid crying out " God be merciful to me, a sinner," he thrust 44 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. his pocket handkerchief into his mouth, and as soon as convenient, the wounded, but unwilling youth, left the house. On the following morning, while engaged at his work, his mind was occupied with thoughts of undying interest. He reflected upon what be had heard, and seen, and felt the previous day; the solemnity, power, and influence of the occasion; great thoughts within troubled him; he had no rest ; he began to count the cost, and to reason thus with himself: "I must forsake my wicked associates and my sinful gratifications. I must deny myself, and part with the idols I so dearly love, and yield obedience to the laws of Heaven." This mental soliloquy was a great mental conflict. Great powers within him were con- tending for the mastery; and after a mighty struggle, his better judgment yielded to the potent enemy within, and he concluded not to give up his sins. He now resumed his former indulgences to a greater extent than ever, such as dancing — an amusement of which he was particularly fond — card playing, and kindred vices. Thus his return to God was put off* until a " more con- venient season," and the devil had gained a great victory. .^ MENTAL STRUGGLE. 45 Every victory gained by the arch-tempter over the spirit of man is attended with a cor- responding loss of moral power. A victory achieved by the deceiver is a great loss to the soul. The great struggle of soul, such as the one to which we here refer — the soul struf^o^lincr DO O to break away from the enchantments of sin, and proposing to decide in reference to its future course, is a struggle involving interests as ever-during as Eternity. A decision under such circumstances frequently settles moral character for life. How important, then, to entertain a heavenly visitant when we have an opportunity of doing so ! how important to encourage every impression made upon the heart by the Divine Spirit ! The education of the heart should commence early. ''Kemem- ber now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, '» is a Scriptural injunction, and the general range of inspired truth is in harmony with this pre cept. We hear a voice from Heaven, saying, '' Those that seek me early shall find me." The inspired penman understood the philosophy of an early dedication of the heart to Grod — hence the advisory precepts throughout the Bible. We have all seen how difficult it is for per- sons to overcome the defects of an early mental education ; with such it is a constant struggle 46 LIFE OF KEV. ROBERT DOBBINS. through life. And many know by sad experi- ence how difficult it is to overcome old sinful habits — a settled i)ervcrsi'on of the heart. It may be said, that whatever may be the degree of moral perversion, whether in an in- cipient or more advanced stage, nothing short of the Spirit of God can change the heart from a state of sin to a state of holiness ! This is admitted. And it may be urged that whatever may be the degree of moral perversion, the Spirit of God is competent to change the most obdurate heart, for it is said " Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow ; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." This is all true, for it is God's own word. In connection with the preceding, there are two things we should remember. First: We should remember the laws of man's mental and moral nature. Secondly: We should remember that the Spirit of God, in its approaches to the souls of the children of men, finds those souls under the influence of different degrees of moral per- version. Now, it is a law of man's moral constitution, that continuance in sin strengthens evil habits ; some are less, others more confirmed, in wicked- ness. Now, without any detraction from the efficiency of God's word or Spirit, is it not in IMPORTANCE OF EARLY PIETY. 47 harmony with reason to suppose that these great agencies would be more likely to succeed with the less obdurate heart, than with the one whose moral obliquity is greater ? We think so. It is a maxim among men, that " we must take the world as we find it ;" and it is not irreverent to say, that God finds men under the influence of different moral states, and some are more, others less, disposed to listen to the Divine voice. The moral state has, to a great extent, a controlling influence upon the dispo- sition of man. It is comparatively easy for the young to commence a religious course of life ; and on the other hand, it is more difficult (though not impossible) ^or the hardened offender to yield to the invitation of Heaven. When the peni- tent sinner comes to the mxcrcy-seat, we are happy to say, that Jesus is " able to save unto the uttermost all that will come unto God by Him ; seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them." Blessed be the name of the Lord ! ITe is able to save the chief of sinners if he is willing to be saved. It may not be uninteresting to the reader to learn something in connection with the unfor- tunate end of Eev. Samuel Tucker, the preacher referred to on a previous page. 48 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. lie returned again to the State of Kentucky, and while going from the lied Stone country down the Ohio river with some families, and while passing the mouth of the Big Sciota river, they were espied by some Indians on the shore. These Indians went out in their canoes and made an attack upon the river emigrants, and quite a battle ensued, in which several of the white men were killed, and a number of the red men met the same fate. In this battle upon the Ohio river. Rev. Mr. Tucker was mortally wounded, and died on the evening of the same day. His remains were subsequently buried in Limestone, now called Maysville, Kentucky. This event occurred in the year 1790. The time had now arrived when Mr. Dobbins entertained serious thoughts of changing his state of life, and accordingly, at the age of twenty-three years, paid his addresses to Miss Jane Boyce, a young lady of engaging man- ners, an amiable spirit, and above all, a devoted, earnest Christian. To this lady he was married October 20, 1791. The serious impressions made upon his mind previous to his marriage still lingered in his heart. The barbed arrow- had found way to his soul, and he could not easily free himself from its influence. Ilis marriage to Miss Boyce he always re- HIS CONVERSION". 49 garcled as providential. Her Christian prudence and sincere attachment to the Christian caase, had a tendency to deepen the impressions made upon his souL He now resolved to give up his sins and sinful companions, and to change his course in life. True, his old habits had a strong hold upon him, and he knew it would cost him a struggle to give them up ; but he resolved through grace, cost what it might, to cast him- self upon God, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and plead for mercy at the foot of the cross. He commenced praying earnestly to God for forgiving grace, encouraged by his faithful wife. A few months after he had formed the resolu- tion to live a new life, he, in company with his wife, attended a class-meeting. He had pre- viously resolved to unite with the church at this meeting, and accordingly before the services closed, an Irish brother, by the name of James Patterson, came up to him, and taking him by the hand, said, " Come, Bob, and join the church." He gave his hand to the Methodist Episcopal Church, April 10, 1793, and though not a Christian, he resolved to continue seeking the blessing of salvation until he knew that God, for Christ's sake, had forgiven all his sins. About this time Bishop Asbury proclaimed a 4 50 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. fast — a day of humiliation and prayer, to be ob- served throughout the connection. The object was for a general revival of religion throughout the church. On a day appointed, Mr. Dobbins repaired to a meeting which was to be held at the residence of his class leader. Two classes were to meet there that day. His mind was still dark and oppressed with a sense of unwor- thiness and sin. His class leader called on him to pray. ' The following thoughts rushed through his stricken spirit : " How is it possible that such a sinner as I can receive the blessing of salvation. I have been so reckless, have re- sisted so much light and knowledge, that it is folly for me to think that God will heed my cry." His spirit sank within him ; then again hope, that angel of the soul, would spring up, and urge him onward to duty. He was impressed with the conviction that if ever changed in spirit, something very unusual would occur in his case. He regarded himself as no ordinary sin- ner. When called upon by his leader to pray, he fell upon his knees, and the only utterance that fell from his lips was, "Lord, have mercy upon me." Scarcely had these words fallen from his lips, when his mourning was turned to joy ; he bounded from his knees and shouted MR. dobbins' conversion. 51 the praises of God aloud. He was now enabled to say " Though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and now thou lovest me." In connection with the foregoing experience, there are two points of great interest to the sincere inquirer after truth, and we propose to submit a few thoughts with regard to them. First: Many sincere seekers of salvation doubt the propriety of uniting with the church visible before conversion, and many Christians conscientiously encourage this view of the sub- ject. We have no disposition to contend unduly against the conscientious convictions of earnest seekers of salvation ; and if such cannot, with a good conscience, unite- with any branch of the Christian church before conversion, let them not violate that tender monitor within, but persevere until they attain the desired end. It would be well, however, for all such to remember, that there is danger of grieving the Spirit of God by a disposition within us to have our oivn ivay. In the unseen pride of our own hearts, we may mark out the way in which we desire the Divine Spirit to lead us, instead of manifesting a disposition to be "led by the Spirit." God's plan with us is one calculated to subdue the pride of the heart, and awaken within us a spirit of submission to the Divine 52 LIFE OF REV. ROHERT DOBBINS. will. Wc observe that whenever an individual feels the necessity of being a Christian, and is resolved by Divine assistance to be a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ, it becomes his duty to avail himself of every facility at command to promote his spiritual welfare. Few, compara- tively, will deny that it is the duty of all per- sons who are favored with the light of the Gos- pel, to unite with the visible church at some period in life. This being admitted, we inquire what is it that renders the obligation to which we refer less binding before conversion than after it ? Will it be said that we are unworthy a place in the church of God before we experience a change of heart ? I would inquire, to what extent is our worthiness increased after conver- sion? We are still unworthy, and remember with unspeakable pleasure that Jesus died for us. The logic of revealed truth impresses upon us the importance of attending to every duty which will have a tendency to promote our spiritual interests. I have known persons to receive the evidence of their acceptance while attending to the ordinance of baptism, and per- sons have been known to experience special intimations of Divine approval when presenting themselves for membership in the church of God. Of course, these acts were accompanied with EEFLECTIONS CONTINUED. 53 practical obedience in other connections, and an earnest desire to forsake sin and be the servants of God. We therefore see no impropriety in persons pursuing the course adopted by the subject of this biography. Secondly: Instantaneous conversions, such as we have described in the case of Mr. Dobbins, were common at the period of which we write ; indeed, this was a prominent characteristic in the practical workings of primitive Methodism ; and to a considerable extent, this is still the case in the Methodist churches of our own and other lands. This has been a subject of painful anxiety to many sincere Christians. Many who have experienced sudden emotions of joy when visited by the Divine Spirit, have, in communicating this intelligence, been very pre- cise in referring to the 7:) /ace, day, and hour, when they were permitted to enjoy this glorious change; while other sincere Christians who heard these cgmmunications, have been led to doubt the genuineness of their own conversion. Now it would certainly be very injudicious to contradict the testimony of the first class of persons to whom we have referred ; were we to to do so, the testimony of the living and the dead would be against us ; and not only so, we would meet a prompt opponent in the Bible 54 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. itself. The change wrought in Saul of Tarsus was not only marked, but sudden ; and the manifestations of converting power wrouglit by the agency of Peter's memorable sermon, are full of instructive interest. I know that these cases have been regarded as extraonUnary ; but when we divest the converting grace of God of its extraordinary character, we destroy its Divinity. Is there no hope, then, for the latter class to whom we have referred ? We reply — there is hope. Our understanding of the case is this. Though we may not be fully advised in relation to the laws of mental life, and the consequent influence of the mind upon the body, it is nevertheless true, that there is a diversity of constitutional temperaments. Some are constitutionally bold, impetuous, and decisive ; others are deliberate, cautious, and timid. Some are uncontrollably susceptible of sudden and violent emotions, as of love, joy, grief, and kindred passions, and give vent to their emotions in sudden outbursts of feeling. Others are as calm, serene, and self-collected under the most exciting circum- stances, as the quietude of a summer's evening. Others, however we may account for it, appear naturally inclined to the higher vices IMPORTANCE OF CONVERSION. 55 from early life; while otliers are proverbially lovely in spirit, and inclined to the moral vir- tues, such as aftbction, benevolence, and truth. Now, may it not reasonably be expected that the converting grace of God, operating upon these different temperaments, would result in personal manifestations in harmony with con- stitutional tendency? Would it be a matter of surprise if the bold, daring, impetuous leader in sin should be suddenly arrested in his course by the power of truth, and be brought to feel the might}^ shock of the Spirit's awakening power, and fall prostrate to the ground ? Would it be surprising if, when the angel of mercy whispers peace to his spirit, and the light of the glory of God shines upon his soul, he should manifest that high wrought enthusiasm which he was wont to display in his previous opposi- tion to truth ? It appears reasonable to suppose that it would be so. On the other hand, would it be a matter of wonder if the latter class to whom we have referred, who, when led out and away into the higher region of spiritual enjoyment by the converting power of God, should at the first touch of the Divine Spirit " see men as trees, walking?" Would it be marvelous if these persons, by a continuance in the way of duty, 56 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. should be favored with a still greater manifes- tation of the Divine presence, so that they would be enabled to '*see every man clearly?" And in addition to the above, we may say that God has his own way of doing his own work, and doubtless his manner of dealing^ with each individual of the human race is in harmony with the highest wisdom. After all, it is a matter of little consequence how the converting grace of God is received, whether suddenly or gradually ; it is enough for us to know, and be able to say : ^' One thing I know ; whereas I was blind I now see." Dear reader, do you love sin, and delight in those things that God hates ? If so, you lack that converting grace that is so essential. On the other hand, do you love the Saviour? Do you love Christian duty ? Is it a pleasure to you to learn and obey the commandments of your Heavenly Father ? If so, to say the very least, you are not far from the kingdom of God. CALL TO PKEACH. 57 CHAPTER lY Appointed Class Leader — Rev. Daniel Hitt — Eev. "William Beauchamp — Rev. Wm. Ross — Invited to lead class — Interview with Mr. Walker —Believer in a Divine call to the Ministry— Removal— Rev. Asa — Shinn — Polemical disputations for Mutual Improvement— Anecdotes of Rev. Mr. Shinn — Appoints a Prayer Meetitg — Preparations of the Heart— Description of the Congregation— Reads one of Wesley's Sermons — Extemporaneous Sermon — Effects. MANY of the early Methodist ministers went from the plow to the pulpit. These were the men for the times. As soon as a youth endowed by nature and grace appeared upon the stage, the sagacious eyes of his seniors were upon him, and they would thrust him out into the vineyard. Neither would these young men go out uncalled or unbidden by a higher power, for they were unwavering believers in a Divine call to the ministry. They felt with Paul, '' Wo ! is me if I preach not the Gospel." So, in obedience to the heavenly call and the voice of the brethren they went forth with the sword of the Spirit ' in their hands, and the diversified scenery of nature around them, from which they drew ample stores of knowledge. Soon after the conversion of Mr. Dobbins he was appointed leader of a class, and began to 58 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. exercise in public by way of exhortation. He atteuded meeting in his own neighborhood, at which Rev. Daniel Hitt, Presiding Elder of the district, was present. He listened to a sermon from this minister, at the close of which Rev. Mr. Beauchamp, the circuit preacher, exhorted. Duriag the exhortation, the preacher spoke of the importance of diligence in the church of God, that every one should be found at his post of duty, doing the work assigned him ; and inti- mated that there were those who failed to exer- cise the talents God had given them, and of doing the work to which they were evidently called, and thus they were fighting against God. Mr. Dobbins felt the force of these remarks, but still declined going forth to the work of the ministry, notwithstanding his convictions of mind in connection with duty. About three years later, he, with his family, removed to Beaver county, Pa. Soon after his removal he went to hear Rev. Thomas Ross, a local preacher. Though the country was new and uncultiva- ted, quite a number of church members had emigrated to this new country, and at the time appointed for the services of Mr. Ross, quite a congregation had assembled to listen to the Word of Life. At the close of the sermon, as INTERVIEW WITH MR. WALKER. 69 was usual in those days, the members were invited to remain for class, and Mr. Dobbins was requested to conduct this service. He complied ; after which he prepared to return to his home in the wilderness. An aged and devoted servant of God by the name of Walker proposed to accompany him ; so they journeyed on together, and after arriving at the cabin of Mr. Dobbins, the venerable brother. was invited to be seated and rest, while his host went about a mile distant to attend to certain temporal affairs. Brother Walker insisted on ffoinsr along, and as soon as an opportunity presented itself, addressed Mr. Dobbins as follows: — ''Brother, I have come to discharge a duty; I have a message to deliver to you ; God has called you to the work of the ministry." This message, at this time, when the mind of Mr. Dobbins was already troubled upon the subject of duty, made a deep impression upon his mind, and at the solicitation of Mr. Walker he consented to fill an appointment. An ap- pointment was accordingly made for Mr. Dob- bins, and at the time specified, accordin_g to promise, he made his appearance, oppressed in spirit, and almost overpowered with the weight of responsibility resting upon him. We are not in possession of the text employed by the 60 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. preacher on this, his first attempt to preach Jesus to dying sinners ; but we are assured tliat the Lord, who is ever present, did not leave him to battle with the tempter alone, but gave him strength to meet the emergencies of the occasion, and by the Divine blessing he was enabled to discharge the duties of the hour in the spirit of his Master. AVe are aware that incidents such as we have just related have very little influence with many minds; they are regarded as freaks of fancy, or, at best, simply developments of personal regard, and have no higher origin than the hriman spirit. With such we have no controversy, and have only to say that every one is at liberty to place his own estimate upon matters of this kind. In the case narrated, au aged man of high spiritual attainments was strongly impressed with a sense of personal duty, which duty was, at some sacrifice, performed. The subject of these pages was an unwavering believer in being inwardly moved by the Holy Ghost to the work of the ministry, and he was impelled by this high conviction to engage ultimately in the work. Mr. Dobbins again changed his location, removing with his family to Columbi- ana county, Ohio, in the vicinity of Fawcetts- town, now called Liverpool. EEV. ASA SHIN^N. 61 It was about this time (1801) that he became acquainted with Eev. Asa Shinn, who was then traveling his first circuit. Kevs. Shinn and Dobbins began in the ministry about the same time, though the latter was Mr. Shinn's senior in years. These two young ministers spent many profitable and happy hours together. They frequently engaged in polemical disputa- tions for mutual improvement. For instance, Mr. Shinn would defend the tenets of Calvin with all his logical force, and Mr. Dobbins would use weapons of Arminius against his opponent. After thus trying their logical strength, they would reverse positions and each contend for the mastery. In this way the miads of these young ministers were brought into logical contact, with pleasure and profit to both. Though a digression from our main design, the reader will be interested in the narration of one or two incidents in the life of the young minister whose name has been inci- dentally introduced in these pages — Rev. Mr. Shinn. At the period of which we write, Mr. Shinn was not more than nineteen years old, and yet he had gained an enviable notoriety in all the country through which he traveled, as a young man of extraordinary mental power, and as a consequence, he was very popular. At this 62 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. early day, Mr. Shinn, in traveling around his circuit, preached statedly at the house of Solo- mon Eagon, a worthy Christian brother.^ It was the good fortune of the writer of these pages to form an acquaintance with Mr. Eagon and his venerable lady, and to minister to them in their old age, in their own house, during the years 1838-9. Mr. Eagon remarked to the wri- ter that Mr. Shinn, in an early day, in visiting at his house was remarkably reticent, frequently sitting upon his chair for a long time without noticing any one, or uttering a word. Then he would awaken from his reverie, and a vein of pleasantry would come over his spirit, and he would be remarkably social. It is probable that at this time the thoughts since embodied in his *' Essay on the Plan of Salvation," stirred his ' great soul, and that he was then originating a work that was destined to arrest the attention and claim the admiration of some of the greatest minds of the age — a work that will live when the polished shaft reared over the dust of de- parted worth shall have crumbled down. Mr. Shinn, though then in his 'teens, paid very little attention to his toilet, was careless with regard to his apparel, and when about to leave for his next appointment, Mr. Eagon would frequently detain him, and request per- EEV. ASA SHINX. 63 mission to brush his coat, adjust his collar, &;c., before mounting his horse. At this time his fame as a preacher was all abroad ; and at a certain point on one of his circuits, he found himself not only in the pres- ence of a large assembly, but favored, in addi- tion, with the presence of three venerable divines of the Calvinian school. These aged ministers had heard of the fame of the young preacher, and were determined to avail themselves of an opportunity of hearing him ; so they were pres- ent. Mr. Shinn, being aware of the presence of these ministers, went to one of them and invited him to preach, which was, of course, modestly declined ; he then invited the other two, who declined, saying that they had come to hear preaching. Mr. Shinn then commenced the ser\dces, and after passing through the prelimi- naries announced the following text: "I said, days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom ; but there is a spirit in man; and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. Great men are not always wise; neither do the aged under- stand judgment, therefore I said, hearken to me; I also will show mine opinion." — Job xxxii. 7-10. 64 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. The text was evidently selected after the refusal of tlie aged men to preach ; and with this text as a basis, the young preaclier elaborated principles with which he was doubt- less familiar with a pathos and logical energy almost overwhelming ; and it is said that the aged ministers retired from the house highly prepossessed in favor of the young preacher, ad- miring his talents and pulpit power, though not prepared to endorse his theology. We have another incident in the early life of Mr. Shinn that we have never seen published. It was communicated to Mr. Dobbins by Mr. John Wrenchallj a merchant of Pittsburgh, and is as follows : — "The first charge to which Mr. Shinn was appointed was called Shenango circuit, and Pittsburgh was at that time a component part of the circuit. Rev. Thornton Flemming, Pre- siding Elder of the district, gave Mr. Shinn a letter of introduction to Mr. Wrenchall, at whose house he would find a home during his stay in the city. Mr. Wrenchall was an Eng- lishman by birth, and both a gentleman and scholar, remarkably polite, and sensitively alive to the slightest infringement of the rules of refined etiquette. Mr. Shinn presented his letter of introduction to Mr. Wrenchall, and was invited ANECDOTES OF KEV. MR. SHINN. 65 into the parlor, and requested to feel himself at home. During his sojourn with this family, he was introduced to Eev. Mr. "Wood, a Presbyte- rian clergyman of Pittsburgh. Mr. Wrenchall performed the service of introduction in a very polite and graceful manner. Mr. Shinn extended his hand without rising from his seat. Here was a breach of the rules of courtesy which shocked the refined sensibilities of Mr. Wren- chall to such an extent that he was half inclined to administer a summary rebuke, but withheld it until, when alone with his guest, he gave him a lecture on good manners, and said, " I trust, my young brother, that when I in the future introduce you to any of my friends, you will, at least, rise from your seat, and deport yourself in accordance with the rules of common cour- tesy. You will meet with every variety of society in life, and it is important that you acquaint yourself with the rules of etiquette so that you may be able to acquit yourself respect- ably in any company with which you may mingle. Three weeks from this evening you will preach in this parlor ; it will be full, and you will probably have the best class of our citizens to hear you." Mr. Shinn was somewhat offended at these plain remarks, and the next morning, as soon 5 66 LIFE OF KEY. ROBERT DOBBINS. as convenient, ordered his horse, and left in a somewliat summary manner. He had to cross the Allegheny river in a ferry boat, and while on his way to the river, he began to reflect upon the incidents of the previous evening, and rea- soned thus with himself: "I am young and have lived but a few years, and have much to learn, and Mr. Wrenchall is a man of years, refinement, and experience, and what he said was doubtless intended for my benefit. I am persuaded that no other motive could have induced him to deal thus plainly with me." So, after he had crossed the river, he requested the ferryman to wait a little. He then drew from his pocket writing material, and using his hat-crown for a writing-stand, he addressed a polite note to Mr. Wrenchall. In this note he apologized for his " unceremonious departure, and requested to be excused for the impropriety of his course ; he then handed the note to the ferryman with the request that he would give it to Mr. Wrenchall. When Mr. Wrenchall received and read this note, he was both surprised and delighted. Its beauty and harmony with the rules of cor- rect composition, its comprehensive style, and above all, the dignified simplicity and humil- ity that pervaded the entire note, made a REV. ASA SHINN. 67 deep impression upon the mind of Mr. Wren- chall. He was overcome with emotion, and his great soul was moved with affection for the young preacher, and hastily gliding into his wife's chamber, he said; ' My dear, read that note ! That young man is destined to be one of the greatest men of the age." In three week& Mr. Shinn returned and preached to a highly delighted audience, and a disciple of Chesterfield could not have gone through the formulas of refined etiquette with more efficiency than he. We now return to our narrative. On the second Sabbath after Mr. Dobbins, with his family, had settled in his new home, he appoint- ed a prayer-meeting at his own house. Feeling the importance of a preparation of heart for the occasion, you may see him in home-spun gar- ments and bare feet, with a well-worn Bible under his arm, retiring to the deep thickets of his forest home to hold communion with the Holy One on high. With this preparation he returns with a countenance all aglow with Christian love. He has received a fresh baptism from the Divine altar, and his soul is all alive with interest for the salvation of those around him, and yet painfully oppressed with the responsi- 68 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. bilities of the occasion. He bad not anticipated much of a congregation at this meeting, but supposed that a few of the neighbors would collect for prayer and social worship. You may then well imagine his surprise as he drew near the house to see the woods alive with horses tied to forest trees and saplings around his rural home. A vast concourse of settlers had gathered in from distant points, and had congregated in his yard before his cabin door, and such a motley group, presenting such a variety of costume, as would bafQe the genius of a painter to describe. There was the aged pio- neer of three score years and ten, with flowing snow-white hair, and home-spun garments that had evidently seen better days ; and there were the hardy sons of the forest, arrayed in hunting shirts, with guns in hand, as though prepared for a grand hunting match ; and there were others, with feet and bosoms bare, uncovered heads, and whose sun-burnt faces were exposed to the burning shafts of a vertical sun ; and there were others still, arrayed in shirts and panta- loons alone, the latter kept in position by a stick thrust through a temporary eyelet ; and there were a few with superannuated coats, evi- dently comprising the aristocracy of the woods. By the side of every horse there sat a faithful PREACHING TO THE PIONEERS. 69 dog, guarding his master's interests. See the horses ! The grand outlines are there, the frame-work is perfect; but they, with their canine guards, give evidence of hard service and poor fare. The cabin was filled with women and chil- dren in every variety of dress. This miscellany of humanity — the men without, and the women within, formed the congregation on that day. Now, imagine you see the pioneer preacher — • a young man in the bloom of life, a stout round form,, in bare feet, whose garb is quite in har- mony with the congregation he is about to address. His round face beaming with Chris- tian love, and with a heart full of unction from on high, he stands forth supported by an om- nipotent arm. The first tremulous tones that fall from his lips and vibrate upon the ears and hearts of his hearers, are the silvery utterances of unaffected interest and love. He reads one of " Wesley's " sermons on the text, *' From everlasting to everlasting thou art God." Not satisfied with this service, he felt as though he ought to preach in his own way. So he commenced an extemporaneous sermon in a voice of unusual compass and power. Softened by the influence of the Divine Spirit, he poured forth the burning truths of revelation with such 70 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. effect, that it sul)diied the native wildness of liis hearers, and their uncouth apparel was no bar- rier to the words of living fire that fell upon their hearts. Some wept aloud ; all hearts were moved ; the old man with silver locks and bronzed brow wept as though his heart would break ; the tear was seen rolling down the sunburnt cheek of the hardy hunter ; others were seen partially leaning upon their guns like statues fixed to the earth, and the steady eye suffused with tears told of the mighty tor- rent of emotion within. So that the men with- out, and the women within, gave evidence on that day that the Gospel of Christ was indeed the " power of God," and it is probable that eter- nity will unfold the grand and glorious truth that it was the " power of God unto salvation." Such was the beginning of the ministry of him whose life is briefly sketched in these pages. ENGAGED IN TRADING. 71 CHAPTER y. Eugaged in Trading— Blennerhassett's Island — Mr. Blennerhassett and wife — Death of Mr. Dobbins' Mother — Rev. Mr. Dewey — Impressions made upon Mr. Dobbins on hearing of his Mother's death — Lorenzo Dow— Rev. Mr. Williamson— Rev. Abbott Godard — Confession of David Beckett, a man condemned to die — His execution — Quotations — Camp Meeting— Sermon— Quotation— Prayer of a Sea Captain — His Conversion. THE interests of a rising family rendered it necessary for Mr. Dobbins to avail him- self of every facility to provide for them. Accordingly for a number of years he was engaged in trading upon the Ohio and Missis- sippi rivers. In one of his excursions down the Ohio river, in 1805, he was attracted by the magnificent appearence of the celebrated Blen- nerhassett mansion, which was then in all its glory. This mansion was situated on an island in the Ohio river about two miles below Par- kersburgh, or the mouth of little Kanawha river. The vivid description of this mansion and its surroundings as related by Mr. Dobbins to the writer, is quite in harmony with the graphic picture drawn by that prince of pleaders, Wm. Wirt. Mr. Blennerhassett had purchased a plat of 72 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. ground on the upper part of the island to which we have referred, and erected a mansion, sur- rounded by corresponding adornments, at a cost of $60,000. The reader will not be displeased with the following description of this beautiful place, (as it then appeared) taken from the " Life of Har- man Blennerhassett, written by "William H. Saffbrd." " To the mind of the voyager descending the river, as the edifice rose majestically in the distance, spreading its wings to either shore, the effect was magical; and emotions were pro- duced, not unlike those experienced in gazing on the Moorish palaces of Andalusia. There was a spell of enchantment around it which would fain induce the credulous to believe that it had been created by magic, and conscQfated to the gods. On a nearer approach was ob- served the beautifully graded lawn, decked with tasteful shrubbery, and interspersed with showy flowers, while a little in the distance, the elm threw its dark branches over a carpet of most beautiful green sward. Beyond these, the forest trees were intermingled with copse-wood, so closely as to exclude the noon-day sun; and, in other places, they formed those long, sweep- ing vistas, in the intricacies of which the eye 73 delights to lose itself, while the imagination conceives them as the paths of wilder scenes of sylvan solitude. '' The space immediately in the rear of the dwelling was assigned to fruits and flowers, of which the varieties were rare, excellent and beautiful; and the manner in which they were disposed over the surface, unique, elegant and tasteful. Espaliers of peach, apricot, quince, and pear trees extended along the exterior, confined to a picket fence ; while in the middle space, wound labyrinthine walks, skirted with flowering shrubs, and the eglantine and honey- suckle flung their melliferous blossoms over bowers of various forms. ''On the south was the vegetable garden; and, adjoining this, a thrifty young orchard, embracing many varieties of fruit, promising abundant supplies for future use. "Not entirely neglecting the useful for the ornamental, Blennerhassett had cleared a hun- dred acres below, and cultivated, in great per- fection, the various crops adapted to the soil. The hall was a spacious room, its walls painted a somber color, with a beautiful cornice of plaster, bordered with gilded moulding, running round the lofty ceiling ; while its furniture was rich, heavy and grand. 74 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. " The furniture in the drawing-room was in strong contrast with that of the hall, light, airy, and elegant ; with splendid mirrors, gay-colored carpets, classic pictures, rich curtains, and orna- ments to correspond, arranged by Mrs. Blen- nerhassett, with, nicest taste and harmonious eft'ect. " A large quantity of silver-plate ornamented the side-boards and decorated the tables. The whole establishment was chastened by the purest taste, and without that glare of tinsel finery too common among the wealthy." If, in connection with the foregoing quota- tion, the reader will refer to the graphic descrip- tion of Blennerhassett's beautiful island home, drawn by the master hand of Wirt in the trea- son trial before the United States court at Eich- mond, Virginia, he will have quite a correct, though romantic view of this earthly paradise of beauty. The domestic happiness that found a home in this beautiful place, was soon to be blighted by the approach of a serpent in dis- guise. The seductive wiles of Burr — the per- version of the too incredulous Blennerhassett — the mysterious expedition — the treason trial of 1806, are all matters of history. Blennerhassett was reduced to poverty, and made repeated efforts to repair his lost fortunes, but with very DEATH OF MR. BLENNERHASSETT 75 little success. In 1815, Mr. Dobbins met him on the street in a southern city, in his bare feet, with an instrument of music under his arm, on his way, as was supposed, to attend a concert, for the purpose of making a few shillings to meet present demands. After a life of strange vicissitude and misfor- tune, this unfortunate man closed his life on the island of Guernsey, in the year 1831, in the sixty -third year of his age. A few years later, his accomplished wife, worn down by painful anxiety and sorrow, breathed out her life in a humble abode in the city of New York, and was followed to the grave by a few " sisters of charity." She was a lady of rare genius and moral worth, and possessed commanding per- sonal attractions. Her poem, entitled the " De- serted Isle," written after the destruction of her elegant mansion, is touchingly beautiful, and pervaded by a spirit of sadness awakened by disappointment and crushed hopes. Here is a life-lesson worthy of study, and it should awaken a desire to look to that Source from which true happiness is derived. In a previous chapter, we have stated that when Mr. Dobbins left the home of his youth, he was absent eighteen years. During his absence his mother died, and he did not learn 76 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. of her death, until within nine miles of home. With a bounding heart, full of the inspiration of hope, he hastened to his early home, but alas! his fond expectations were suddenly blighted by the sad news of her death. This intelligence fell like a leaden weight upon his heart, and to a soul like his, that was all alive with filial affection, it must have been sad indeed. During his absence from home, Kev. Mr. Dewey, a superannuated minister, had made a tour to the south for his health, and on his return he called upon Mrs. Dobbins. She learned that this gentleman had been to the south, and inquired of him if he had seen or heard of a man by the name of Robert Dobbins, at the same time giving a description of her son. He replied, "Oh yes! I have seen him and heard him preach." She did not know until then that her son was even religious. When this news fell upon her ear, her soul was filled with joy, and she shouted aloud, and said, " now I can die in peace." She lived to realize an answer to her prayers in behalf of her son, and then the Lord called her home. The chords of affection that bound the heart of Mr. Dobbins to his sainted mother were strong and indissoluble, and during all the EXECUTIOy OF A CRIMINAL. 77 long years of his life — even down to the day of his death, he carried in his pocket-book a lock of his mother's hair, and tears of affection would fall upon his furrowed cheeks when speaking of her early love and interest for his welfare and happiness. In the year 1811, he fell in company with liOrenzo Dow under circumstances of painful interest. A man by the name of David Becket was to be executed for the murder of a man by the name of Lightfoot. Revs. Dow and Dob- bins went in company to the cell of the con- demned man, on the morning of the day of execution. It appears that another person had been implicated, and was supposed to be a party to the crime for which Becket was about to suffer. The object of the visit was to elicit the truth from the condemned man, who of course knew the facts in the case. Mr. Dow first interrogated the prisoner, and being dissatisfied with his answers, left the cell. Mr. Dobbins then conversed with the prisoner, and urged him to tell the truth, and spoke of the awful consequences of appearing before his Judge with a falsehood upon his soul. He finally succeeded in eliciting from the prisoner the fact that the implicated man was not guilty. The prisoner was then taken to the scaffold, and 78 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. Kev. Mr. Williamson, a Presbyterian minister, delivered a sermon from the text, "Oh ' Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself, but in me is thy help." Mr. Dow then delivered an address from the words, "Rejoice, oh young man in thy youth, and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth," &;c., after which Rev. Abbott Godard delivered an exhortation, and then Mr. Dobbins addressed the people. The prisoner made a confession three-quarters of an hour long, and exhorted the young people to avoid the paths of vice ; and said, that intem- perance, gambling and base company, had been the cause of his downfall. At the close of his thrilling appeal to the young people — in the spirit of apparent repentance and trust in the Redeemer, he was executed in West Union, Adams county, Ohio. "Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his color in the cup, when it moveth itself aright; at the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like ap adder." — Prov. xxiii. 31, 32. " Who hath woe ? who hath sorrow ? who hath contentions? who hath babbling? who hath wounds without cause ? who hath redness of eyes ? They that tarry long at the wine." — Prov. xxiii. 29, 30. GREAT CAMP-MEETING. 79 At the meeting to whicli we liave referred at the close of the preceding chapter, a gentleman was present by the name of William Wells, the founder of Wellsville, Ohio. This gentleman invited Mr. Dobbins to preach at his house, which was accepted. Soon after he held another meeting at the same place, at which there were several conversions. This was the beginning of a great work of grace at that place ; in three months from this time, Rev. Thornton Flem- ming, Presiding Elder of the district, organized a society of forty-three members. After exer- cising his gifts for a time, Mr. Dobbins received license to exhort, and subsequently to preach, from Rev. Mr. Flemming. About this time an event occurred, well cal- culated to try the courage of the young preacher. A camp-meeting was held at Short creek, Yir- ginia, at a place known as " Spohr's camp- ground." It was intended to be a general rallying-time. The meeting commenced on Thursday. It was supposed that there were eleven thousand persons present, and there were one hundred and ninety-six carriages and vehicles of various kinds, and thirty-six preach- ers. On account of the immense congregation, two stands were erected at a suitable distance apart, 80 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBIXS. and it was proposed to have preaching at both these stands at the same time on Sabbath at eleven- o'clock. As the time drew near, tliis programme was changed, and it was decided that as Mr. Dobbins had a strong voice, he could be heard by the entire multitude ; so he was selected to preach at eleven o'clock Sab- bath morning. When he was informed of this arrangement, his heart sank within him, and he was nearly overpowered with an indescribable sense of incompetency for the work to which he had been assigned. The hour came, and while entering the stand he was seized with a pain in the side, which, for a few moments, appeared almost beyond endu- rance. Kev. Mr. Flemming, who was the Superintendent of this meeting, gave Mr. Dob- bins a word of comfort, requested him to be seated, and to be composed, and said, further, that Brother John Meek would give out the first hymn, and offer the opening prayer, and affectionately advised Mr. Dobbins to be calm. 'This was a great relief to the oppressed spirit of the young preacher. After the preliminary services by Brother Meek, Mr. Dobbins rose in the pulpit, and at this point Mr. Flemming whispered in his ear as follows: "Don't pitch vour voice too high, but begin in a moderate GREAT CAMP -MEETING. 81 tone. Your voice is fully sufficient to reach all the people." Mr. Dobbins then announced the following text : " Worship God." — Rev. xxii. 9. His divisions were simple, and may be re- corded here. They were as follows : I. What is there in God that renders him an object of worship ? II. How can we worship him aright ? III. The consequences that flow from accept- able worship. You may now, in imagination, see this young preacher, not more than thirty years old, stand- ing before this vast audience. All fear has left him; he is calm and self-possessed, and has full command of all his powers. At the time of which we write, " Paine's Age of Reason " had recently made its appearance, and was now generally in circulation. The pulpits of the land were arrayed against this form of infidelity, and Mr. Dobbins, though comparatively a young man, had read some- what extensively upon the subject, for he at one period in his life was inclined to be some- what skeptical upon the subject of Christianity. He, being an honest inquirer after truth, had availed himself of all the facilities at command, to satisfy his own mind upon the subject. He 6 82 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. had consulted " Watson's Reply to Paine," the " Theocrat," a small, but powerfully written work, prepared expressly to meet the demands of the times, "Prideau's Connections," and kindred publications, so that he was not en- tirely unprepared to meet the demands of the hour. And now, with a voice of unusual compass and power, he held the vast audience spell-bound for two hours, driving the votaries of the French philosophy from the arena of conflict, and searching out the charlatan skeptic in his hiding-place, and exposing the nakedness of the ground. And now the preacher's face beams with chastened beauty as he pours forth the direct truths of the Gospel into the willing ears of congregated thousands, while a cloud of glory rests upon the encampment, and a great victory is achieved by the votaries of truth. At this camp-meeting there were about three hundred conversions, and it is probable that the services to which we have referred contribu- ted to a considerable extent towards this end. Rev. Dr. Brown in his Autobiography refers to these early days, and thus speaks of Mr. Dobbins : " While we yet lived at the river in Yirginia, Rev. Robert Dobbins established ' GREAT CAMP- MEETING. 83 preaching at the house of my uncle, Col. Rich- ard Brown. He was called the great Methodist preacher. The border settlers generally turned out to hear him. Much religious interest was waked up, and he certainly would have done good had he continued his labors." A circumstance occurred at the meeting to which we have referred, that presents a peculiar phase of character, which we will relate. Rev. James Quinn who was present at the camp- meeting, called the attention of Mr. Dobbins to an old sea-captain, who had kneeled down all alone on a certain part of the encampment. He was engaged in earnest prayer. There was a mighty struggle within, and he was praying with all his soul for the pardoning mercy of God. In the simplicity of his soul he was uttering the most horrid imprecations upon himself, telling the Lord how mean and insig- nificant he was, and what a fool he had been for neglecting the offers of salvation for so many years. Revs. Quinn and Dobbins listened to him for some time, unobserved; finally, noticing these ministers, he looked up inquiringly into Mr. Quinn's face, and said, ''Aint I a poor d d fool ?" The tears rolling down his cheeks, lie continued, " Will God have mercy upon 84 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. such a (1 son of a b as I am ?" He then resumed his prayer, and by the use of epithets familiar to him, endeavored to make himself appear as mean as possible. Here we have a peculiar phase of humanity. This man was under deep conviction of sin, and felt his deep poverty of spirit and unworthiness, and ex- pressed this felt condition by the use of terms with which he was familiar. The sjxirit of this penitent man is worthy of imitation by all impenitent souls. His ignorance in the use of words was doubtless overlooked by the Holy One, while his sincere penitence resulted in his reception of the pardoning grace of God. Beneath that rough exterior there was an hon- est, burdened heart, seeking the blessing of salvation. God heard his cry, and before the close of that camp-meeting he was enabled to rejoice in a sin-pardoning God. God seeth not as man seeth ; for man (too often) looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh at the heart." REMOVAL. 85 CHAPTER YI. Eemoval — Ordained to Deacon's Orders by Bishop As"bury — To Elder's Orders by Bishop McKendree— Removal— Great Reformation— The boy Henry Bascom — Engaged in a Trading Tour — An affray at Natchez — Mr. Dobbins' Sermon — His views endorsed by a Natchez Editor- Conversation with a Slave — Attends a Camp-meeting — Description of the Ground — Services — Failure in Trade — Involved in Debt — Starts for Home — Confined by Sickness in Natchez — A Slave Family— Toney's Story— Arrival Home. /I R. DOBBINS thought it advisable to change his location again, and conse- quently removed to Adams county, Ohio. Before his removal, he was ordained to the office of Deacon in the Methodist Episcopal Church, by Bishop Asbury, at a camp-meeting on Pike Run, August 16, 1808. He subse- quently received Elder's orders at the hands of Bishop McKendree, in Lebanon, Warren county, Ohio. "We now find Mr. Dobbins in Adams county, on the waters of Three Mile, ten miles north of Maysville, Kentucky. At this place he com- menced preaching as an unstationed minister ; and in eighteen months organized a church of one hundred and nineteen members. He again removed to the east fork of Eagle Creek, in 86 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. Brown count}^, Ohio. A great reformation occurred at this place, which was, to a consid- erable extent, effected through his instrumen- tality. Here he made a purchase of land for a home, and at every opportunity proclaimed the glad tidings of salvation to all who were willing to hear. While preaching in this neighborhood, he was much impressed with the appearance of a little boy, ten or twelve years old, who attended the ministry of the AVord, quite regu- larly. He had a beautiful round face, and a sparkling eye beaming with affection and intel- ligence. There was a beautiful blending of simplicity and graceful dignity of manner about this little boy, that drew all hearts to him ; he was rarely seen to indulge in the common sports of boyhood, but in his leisure moments was almost always seen with a book in his hand. This boy was Henry Bascom, so well known in after years as one of the brightest lights of the American pulpit. , The pecuniary circumstances of Mr. Dobbins were such, that he concluded to try his fortune in a different field of enterprise. So, after remaining in Brown county three years, he resolved on a trading tour to New Orleans. He proposed to trade principally in flour, so ENGAGED IN TRADING, 87 he made every necessary ariangement, and on the eighth day of June, 1815, he set out with his boat for New Orleans. While on his way to New Orleans,,he stopped three weeks at Natchez. While here a circum- stance occurred which we will relate, as an illustration of ministerial fidelity. An affray occurred between two men by the names of Campbell and McCormick. These men had been captains under General Jackson at the battle of New Orleans. A spirit of jealousy had been awakened in the mind of Campbell on account of certain promotions conferred on McCormick. These men happened to meet in Natchez, and without saying a word, Campbell seized a yard stick (they being in a store) and struck McCormick on the head, knocking him down. McCormick soon recovered and drew a dirk and stabbed Campbell, who fell, and in fifteen minutes expired. On the following Sabbath Mr. Dobbins preached in Natchez, and in the course of his sermon, had occasion to speak of the current sins of the day, and with the sword of the Spirit entered within the confines of practical life, and with scathing effect uncovered the rotten social sentiment that predominated to a great extent among many of the southern chivalry. In his 88 LTF,E OF RKV. ROBERT DOBBINS. discourse he spoke of the affray of the preceding week, and condemned in severe terms the practice of carrying deadly weapons, and the consequenoes resulting therefrom. An editor of one of the city papers published an out- line of this sermon, and commended, in glow- ing terms, the independence of the preacher. Soon after his arrival in Natchez, he, in com- pany with another trader, went a short distance from the city, where they saw a number of slaves burying one of their dead, when the following colloquy ensued. Mr. Dobbins, ad- dressing one of these sable sons of the south, said : '' I see you are not free from death here." Slave. — " Oh ! no, massa, de people die here." Mr. D. — " I suppose you have no preachers to perform religious services for you." Slave. — "Oh, yes! massa, plenty ob preach- ers;" and then, pointing respectively to several churches that could be seen in the distance, he said, "Dat is a Catholic church, and dat is a Presbyterian church, and dat is a Methodist church." " Ah !" said Mr. Dobbins, " have you Metho- dists about here?" "Oh, yes! massa," he replied, ''and de preachers are in town ; Massa Winans and Sel- CAMP-MEETING. 89 lars, and Massa Seeley Paine, and dej are goin' to have a great camp-meetin' to commence to- morrow (Saturday) six miles from heah; at Pine ridge." On the next day Mr. Dobbins walked out to the encampment, and was soon recognized by Messrs. Winans and Paine, and by request preached for them that day, and was urged to remain over Sabbath and preach again. The arrangement of this encampment was peculiar ; about two-thirds of the ground was in front of the stand, and the remaining third in the rear. The white people occupied the seats in front, and the negroes occupied the ground in the rear, and a fence nine rails high divided these departments. In the distance could be seen a Presbyterian church. The Sabbath came, shedding its beauteous light upon the consecrated ground, dotted with tents, and in due time the trumpet summoned the people to their respective places to listen to the preached Word. Mr. Dobbins announced the following text : " He hath showed thee, O man, what is good ; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. — Micah vi. 8. This was a theme well calculated to develop . the special power of the preacher. 90 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. There are those still living, who well remember his masterly treatment of the great attributes of the Deity, Justice and Mtrcy. The doctrines of the text were presented with liberty and effect. During the sermon he turned round and addressed the colored people in the rear, and with thrilling effect pointed them to that better land where the distinction between master and slave was unknown — exhorted them to be obedient to their masters, and above all to "walk humbly with God." The burning thoughts and glowing fervor of the preacher were too much for these hopeful sons and daughters of Ham, and, as might have been expected, their cups ran over, and a shout of joy arose like a tempest from these ebony worshipers, so that the noise was heard afar off This was one of the great camp-meetings of the age, the fruits of which time may never know, but which eternity will unfold. Like many other preachers who engage in trading with the expectation of improving their condition, Air. Dobbins' effort in this connection proved a failure ; and not only so, it also involved him in a debt of seven hundred and fifty dollars. He returned home broken down financially, and was under the necessity FAILURE IN TRADE. 91 of selling his farm to pay his debts. He not only suffered in his finances, but the trip came very near costing him his life, for while at New Orleans he was taken sick, and while yet in a feeble condition, started for home on horse- back, there being only two steamers on the Mississippi river at that time, and the fare from New Orleans to Louisville was eighty dollars. He started on his journey wan and feeble, and succeeded in reaching Natchez, a distance of some three hundred miles, when he was so reduced as to render it necessary to discontinue his journey. Here he was confined to his bed four weeks, but was providentially placed in charge of Dr. Grustin, an attentive and gentle- manly physician. While confined to his room, he became inter- ested in a negro family, who occupied the base- ment of the house in which he lay. This family consisted of an old man — a colored preacher by the name of Toney — his wife, and an old colored woman, who was past work. This family was religious, and old Toney became very much interested in his sick massa Dobbins. Mr. Dobbins could hear their expressions of interest for his welfare. When Toney returned home from his work, he would inquire of his wife how the sick massa was. " Bad enough," would 92 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. be the reply; then Toney would bow in prayer, and pray with great fervency for " sick massa." The ascending prayer, all aglow with living fire, was the prayer of faith — a faith that takes hold on God; after the prayer there would be a short pause, only long enough for a brief relax- ation of the spirit, and then his wife would begin, and offer her simple, soul-stirring orison to the same Omnipotent Friend whose ear is ever open to hear the prayer of simple faith. Then the old lady who was '"' past work," would bring her offering and lay it upon the altar, and under the influence of a present inspiration, it would kindle and burn, and the holy incense would ascend to heaven ; and soon a response would descend upon that same course on which the petition ascended, filling all hearts with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Mr. Dobbins sought an opportunity for an interview with this devoted African family. Whenever Toney returned from his work, he invariably, before leaving, would' go up stairs, and approach very softly the door of the chamber in which the sick man lay, and inquire after the health of "sick massa." He would not enter the room, but as .the door stood a little ajar, he would stand and make his inquiries. At one of these inter- views, Mr. Dobbins invited Toney in, who, with characteristic modesty, complied, and gave Mr. Dobbins the following narrative : " I was owned by a gentleman in Maryland, and had my sleeping apartment convenient to my master, so as to be ready to attend punctually to all his wants, I being his servant boy. Finally, my master died, and I fell into the hands of a youug mistress — my old master's daughter. My young mistress finally married, and her husband was a cross, violent man, and abused me yery much. Finally, I was sold to a trader and brought to this city, and fell into the hands of my present master. Here my troubles began. I was con- fined to a peck of corn a week. I wanted meat, and thought I would certainly die without it. With these feelings, I concluded there would be no harm in killing a hog. I knew where a num- ber lay, and took my axe and started to the place with the full intention of having some meat. On reaching the place, I thought, before proceeding further, I had better pray ; so I kneeled down and asked the Lord if there would be any harm in doing this thing. After prayer, I arose from my knees, and something within me told me not to kill the hog. So I concluded not to do as I 94 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. had intended, and I felt very happy, and turned back towards my quarters. As I was returning, happy in spirit, I saw an opossum lying in the road and killed it, and " — at this point his emo- tions were wrought up to the highest pitch, and he exclaimed : " Glory to God, I got meat, and a clear conscience, too." Such was the story of Toney, the African preacher, and there is doubtless much of true Christian philosophy in the latter part of his narrative. There are many acts of doubtful propriety in which persoas are inclined to indulge, which, if submitted to the same test as the above, would give a different direction to thought and action. The indisposition of the human heart to seek direction from Heaven in all matters of inter- est, is a fruitful cause of error and sin. We have a guide to direct us, and that guide we should follow. We have the Word of God, and the Spirit of God to lead us. We have the Word at command which we may consult at our leisure, and in that Word we have the following beautiful sentiment : " For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." Komans viii. 14. But let no one regard the per- verted whims of his own imagination as being ARRIVAL AT HOME. 95 dictates of the Divine Spirit ; for all the influ- ences of the Spirit of God are in perfect har- mony with his Word, and in opposition to the selfish isolation of the human spirit. The dictates of the unrenewed heart are selfish. The Word and Spirit of God leads our minds into a new channel. The converting grace of God does not add new powers to the soul, but changes, and gives a new character to the powers we already possess. It changes the character of the will, and this change is thorough ; it is a complete revolution of the determining power of the mind. The practical language of the unrenewed heart is, " I will not ;" while the feeling of the sincere penitent is, "Oh! that I knew where I might find him. I would come even to his seat." When that mysterious change called the "new birth," is wrought in the heart by the influence of the Divine Spirit, in obedience to the truth, it is productive of an entire revolu- tion of the affections ; the sinner loves sin ; the sincere penitent and the Christian hate it. We need not further urge truths that are so plain to every one who is in the habit of " searching the Scriptures." Let the voice of Heaven be obeyed, and let God's word and Spirit lead us. 96 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. We will observe at the close of this chapter, that Mr. Dobbins, by the blessing of God, and the attentions of a kind physician, was enabled to reach his home in safety. SELLS HIS FARM TO PAY HIS DEBTS. 97 CHAPTER YIL Sells his Farm to pay his Debts — Rents a Farm — Removal to White Oak — Buys a Farm — Death of his Wife — Travels a Circuit — Second Marriage — Embarrassed on account of Security Debts — Sent to the Legislature of Ohio — Political Preferences — Removal to Fayette County, Ohio — Settles five and a half miles west of Washington C. H.— Urged to make Stump Speeches, but declines— Preaches a Sermon in Wilmington, Ohio, to his constituents, in which he points out their duty as American citizens — Reflections — His Influence in the Ohio Legislature — Church Government — Union Societies — He is Chairman of a Union Society — Rev. A. McGuire — Revs. J. Flood, sr., and J. Dalbey, sr. — Mr. Dobbins makes application to the proper authorities of the Methodist Episcopal Church for a letter of his standing — Attends the Second Session of the Ohio Annual Conference of the Associated Methodist Churches — A Call from the West — Appointed to Concord Circuit— Rev. A. H. Bassett — Anecdote — Reflections. AS we have intimated in the preceding chapter, Mr. Dobbins, after his return from the south, was under the necessity of selling his farm to pay his debts. He then resorted to the only alternative left him, and rented a farm, which he occupied for some time, and then removed to a place called White Oak, on a piece of land known as the "Horse Shoe Bottom," in what was then Adams county, Ohio. Here he purchased a farm, and continued to preach the Gospel as often as circumstances would permit. He was 7 98 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. elected county collector, which enabled him to command means sufficient to assist considerably in paying for his farm. We have seen, thus far, that the life of the subject of these pages was a life of vicissitude and trial. A new scene now opens, unlike any other through which he had passed, and well calculated to stir his spirit to its utmost depths. The wife of his youth, who had shared his joys and sorrows, is stricken down by the hand of disease. She who had administered words of encouragement in the cloudy and dark day, when he was seeking the pardoning grace of God, and who contributed to buoy up his sink- ing spirit when the hand of adversity was upon him, and by her smiles and earnest pffection nerved his manly heart when the cloud of financial pressure weighed him down, was herself laid upon a bed of affliction. She lin- gered for a time with that terrible disease, the Flux, and died in great peace, September, 1818. Mr. Dobbins had lived with this lady twenty-seven years, and by her he had ten chil- dren, three sons and seven daughters, two of whom survive — Sarah Gutridge and Margaret Noleman. The angel of his household is now gone. How desolate that home, which was once SECOND MARRIAGE. 99 lighted up by her smiles, and rendered a para- dise by her presence ! A void is made in his heart that renders him lonely indeed. In this bereaved condition he discontinued house-keep- ing, and sold his farm, and was employed by Eev. Mr. McCoombs, a Presiding Elder in the Methodist Episcopal Church, to travel on Eagle Creek circuit. After the lapse of a suitable time, he formed an acquaintance with Miss Jane Creed, a young lady of fine personal appear- ance and excellent character, to whom he was married June 24, 1819. This lady was the daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth Creed. By this lady he had four children, three of whom, survive, viz : Nancy Blue, Leonard and Russel Dobbins. After his marriasre with Miss Creed, he removed to the neighborhood of Jamestown, in Green county, Ohio, (1819) and as opportunities offered, preaching the Gospel as an unstationed minister. Here he became embarrassed on account of security debts, and was compelled to, struggle hard to keep above the wave. He remained in this region twelve years, and represented Green county in the Legislature of the State of Ohio two successive terms. He finally removed from Green to Fayette county, and settled on Sugar Creek, five and a half 100 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. miles west of Wasliington, the county seat. Ho also represented this county in the State Legis- lature two successive terms, which position he filled with honor to himself, and to the satisfac- tion of his constituents. With regard to his political preferences, he belonged to what was then known as the Whij Party, and the writer, in conversation with a gentleman of Clark county, who sat by the side of Mr. Dobbins in the legislative halls of the State, said, that any measure of importance proposed by him was rarely, if ever, contested by members of that body. While a candidate for the Legislature, he was opposed to stump-speaking for political effect, though frequently urged to do so by his friends. During a political canvass, while his name was before the people as a candidate for the Legislature, being in Wilmington, Ohio, he was beset on every hand by the friends of his party, to give them a stump speech, but he utterly refused to do so. They then asked him if he would preach. He replied in the affirma- tive : so a crowd repaired to a church and heard a sermon from their candidate. In that sermon he took occasion to give his views of that sort of political economy which is clearly deducible from God's word. He not only A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATURE. 101 enforced the duties of American citizens in their civil relations, but also the obligations men are under to God. The people were satis- fied that he was not only sound in his political faith, and fully able to defend the great interests at stake, but that he was also deeply interested for the salvation of his fellow men. Few men maintained a higher opinion of the sacredness of the ministerial office than Mr. Dobbins, and he did not seem inclined to do anything that would detract from the dignity of the Christian minister. I think it may be safely affirmed that a political life is incompati- ble with the Christian ministry ; not that politi- cal interests are sinful in themselves, or that it is not the duty of ministers, and all other men to be sufficiently advised in relation to political affiiirs, so as to act intelligently as American citizens ; but when ministers of the Gospel enter the arena of political strife, and harangue the multitude during great political contests, it has, to say the least, a tendency to bring reproach upon the sacred office. Such minis- ters will be charged (however untrue it may be) by their opponents of using their high position as a medium for the promotion of political ends. Consequently, a railing accusation is brought against the professed watchman upon Zion's 102 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. walls. A thing may be lawful in itself, but not expedient. We may very readily recur to instances as illustrations. The Apostle Paul said, *' If meat make my brother to oftend, I will eat no meat while the world standeth." We may remark still further, that there are too many temptations thrown in the way of political aspirants to render it safe for a minister to enter the lists for political favor. The record of Mr. Dobbins in the legislative halls of the State, is, to say the least, a favorable one. As far as we are advised, his speeches 'vere short, com- prehensive, and sensible, and his measures, as we have said, rarely opposed, which is au evi- dence that he was a leading mind in that body. He was very attentive to the debates in the House, and when any matter of importance was in debate, it was interesting to see the intense earnestness depicted upon the lineaments of his face. His peculiar facial expression at such times, drew the attention of an artist who was a mem- ber of the same body. A somewhat exciting debate occurred upon the presentation of a cer- tain bank bill, which was ably defended by a member from Cincinnati. During the speech of the Cincinnatian, Mr. Dobbins sat with fixed countenance, evidently weighing, with critical A MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATURE. 103 care, tlie words and arguments of the speaker. His earnest eye, the strong lines of his face, and his peculiar attitude, rendered him an object of special notice, and the artist-member drew a characteristic sketch of him,' and presented it to him at the close of the session. This sketch is still preserved by a member of the family. At this time the subject of church govern- ment had awakened considerable interest in the !Mfethodist Episcopal Church. Union Societies were organized in various places, and Mr. Dob- bins was elected Chairman of the " Miami Dis- trict Union Society," and was one of this little band who signed a petition to the ensuing Gene- ral Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, praying for a modification of the eccle- siastical economy of the church. Thus he be- came an early advocate of reform in the Metho- dist Episcopal Church. Subsequently Rev. Adget McGuire was sent out as a pioneer in the new enterprise, and going into the neighborhood of Jamestown, Green county, Ohio, organized a church of thirty members, among whom were Revs. J. Flood, sr. and Joel Dalbey, sr. This organization was effected prior to the identification of Mr. Dob- bins with the new enterprise. He desired to leave the old church in a formal manner ; de- lOi LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBIKS. sired a letter from the proper authorities; thought he was entitled to it, and made appli- cation for a certificate of his standing to Eev. John Collins, Presiding Elder of the District, at a Quarterly Conference. In his application he addressed the Elder in Conference as follows : — ''That which can do you no harm, and me a great deal of good, has, at least, a claim upon charity." The Elder replied, " I fear you wish to tax our charity too high." He then said %o the Conference, "Brethern, if you have any- thing against me, say so, and bring me to an account." They replied, " We have nothing against you, but you are going to become a ' i?afi.,' '' [an abbreviated epithet, by which the early reformers, in many places, were known.) He then turned to the chair, and requested a vote in regard to his character, but no atten- tion was paid to this request. It does not ap- pear that he ever received a certificate of his moral and ministerial standing from the authori- ties of the Methodist Episcopal Church. At the ensuing Annual Conference, the following question was asked by the presiding officer: " How many local preachers within the bounds of our Annual Conference have seceded?" Several were named by the preachers, and A CALL FROM THE WEST. 105 among the rest the name of E. Dobbins was announced. The first session of the Ohio Annual Confer- ence of the Associated Methodist Churches was held in Cincinnati, October 15, 1829. Mr. Dobbins was not present. The second session of the same body was also held in Cincinnati, September, 1880. At this conference, Rev. C. Springer was elected President. When Mr. Dobbins left home to attend this Conference, he had no intention of receivinof a regular charge from that body, his temporal affairs being in a condition to render his pres- ence at home necessary. The business of the Conference was attended to with spirit and interest. All were awake, and determined, by the assistance of the great Head of the Church, to labor for the promotion of a living Christi- anity and mutual rights together. During the progress of the Conference a call from the west for preachers was heard. The call was pressing, and the question was, " Who will volunteer to go ?" Five young men responded to the call, and this breach in the body left a vacancy in the Ohio Conference. At the close of one of the morning sessions, Mr. Dobbins began to reflect upon the necessities of the situation. The mis- 106 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. sionary fire began to burn. lie laid in the balances his temporal demands and the wants of the church, and finally decided to go into the itinerant ranks, and work with all his soul for God and the church. When his name was called, he responded favorably, and was ap- pointed to Concord Circuit. On account of the condition of his temporal affairs, the Conference gave him three months in which to arrange them before entering fully upon his work. In the meantime, Kev. A. H. Bassett, a young preacher, who was now sent out into the minis- try for the first time, served the circuit during these three months, being assisted on Sabbath days by the senior minister. This young min- ister was reared principally in a city, and was "unacquainted, to a great extent, with the rural beauties and wonders of nature, as seen away from the crowded city. Many new objects of interest arrested his attention, which were both a source of pleasure and instruction, for he was a student of Nature as well as of Revelation. In passing a beautiful prairie in company with a senior preacher, where there were trees stand- ing at respectful distances from each other, as sentinels keeping guard over the beautiful prairie grounds, the young minister made the ANECDOTE. 107 following inquiry : " Brother Dobbins, were all these trees planted there?" and received the reply that "they were set there by the hand of Nature." This young preacher appears to have been willing to obtain knowledge from any source, and was never afraid to ask a question for information, and was, withal, modest and unas- suming, and scrupulously careful not to give unnecessary trouble to the families he might visit. On one occasion he went to Mr. Dobbins' -in the night, and supposing the family to be in bed and asleep, he had no disposition to disturb them. He was anxious to assure himself that he was at the right place ; and leading his horse to the barn and looking in, he noticed seats still there (for a hig meeting had been held in that barn some time previous), by which he knew he was right, and so, leading his horse into the stable, he then climbed up into the hay-mow and went to bed. In the morning early (for he was an early riser), he went to the house with a liberal quantity of hay-seed stick- ing to his hair and clothes, presenting an un- mistakable evidence that he had been out late ; while his presence and appearance created quite a surprise to the family. When asked where he 108 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. been, he replied that "he had slept in the hay- mow as he did not wish to disturb the family." The good old preacher reproved him gently for his timidity, for he loved him as a fiither loves a son. I thought these little incidents too good to be lost, and the present " Agent of the Methodist Book Concern" at Springfield, will excuse this reference to one with whom he is so familiar. Important lessons may be learned from the foregoing incidents. It is doubtless true, that much valuable information is lost on account of a proud spirit. We are so unwilling that others should know what we do not know. A desire for personal improvement and future efficiency in life, should induce the young, espe- cially, to avail themselves of every facility at command, whether within the range of obser- vation or social contact, to glean all the know- ledge they possibly can. To ask a question for information, is not only an evidence of an inquiring, but also of a noble mind. One of the prominent educators of our State had occasion to say to the writer, that if he could gain one new idea from a volume that cost him a dollar, he considered himself well repaid. Nature, men and books are before us; all are sources of instruction. Again : It is said that the " truth is gener- EEFLECTIONS. 109 ally found between extremes ;" and we may observe that the case of the young preacher to whom we have referred, in the selection of his bed, furnished a practical evidence of an extreme in one direction, and we have known preachers who overleaped the bounds of pro- priety and indulged in the other extreme, who seem never to have read the ''Preacher's Man- ual." It is the duty of the people to take care of their preachers, and render them as comfortable as they can ; and it is the duty of the preacher to avoid giving unnecessary trouble wherever he may go, and not to do as a certain preacher whom I knew is reported to have done. It is said that he went to a certain place after tea- time. The lady of the house was wearied with family cares, and half sick when the preacher arrived. She inquired if he had been to tea. He replied, "No, sister, but you need not give yourself any extra trouble on my account. Just two or three hot rolls, a cup of coffee, and a chicken, if convenient, as it is late." A ministerial brother informed me that the above did occur, and that the lady, in the kind- ness of her heart, as sick as she was, did all this for that man. If this be so, it was a down- 110 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. right imposition, and such a man is not worthy of a church, or the good things of a Christian family. Let extremes be avoided, and let the people and their ministers understand and remember the scriptural maxim : " Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ." RE-APPOINTED TO CONCORD CIRCUIT. Ill CHAPTER YIIL Ri -appointed to Concord Circuit— Success — Preaching in a Saw Mill — liev. Benj. Ryan — Appointed to Highland Circuit, with B. Ryan, Assistant — Division of the Ohio Annual Conference — Traveling on Concord Circuit — Local Itinerancy— Reflections — Elected to the Presi- dency of the Ohio Annual Conference — Letter — Appointed to Xenia and Rehoboth Circuit, with Rev. L Edwards as Assistant — Re-ap- pointed to the same Circuit, with Rev. 0. P. Stephens, Assistant — Appointed to Clarksville Circuit — Appointed to the Superintendency of Sugar Creek Circuit — Extract from a Letter — Cholera — A Fast Day appointed by President Taylor — Fast Day Services — Rev. Daniel Riley — A Sermon by Mr. Riley— His Character— Death. THE third session of the Ohio Annual Con- ference of the Methodist Protestant Church was held in Zanesville, Muskingum coi'.nty, Ohio, October 4, 1831. At this confer- ence Mr. Dobbins was re-appointed to Concord Circuit. The labors of this circuit were ardu- ous, and required sacrifices such as ministers now know very little of. This circuit was about four hundred miles around, embracing quite a number of counties. He had been favored with considerable suc- cess on this circuit the preceding year, having received about one hundred into church fellow- ship. A little earlier than the period of which we write, he delivered a discourse about seven miles north-west of Washington, Fayette county, 112 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. Oliio, whicli is spoken of by the old residents of that region as a sermon of extraordinary intelligenee and power. The subject was given him by some one, and was founded upon the twelfth chapter of the Eevelations of St. John. The sermon was delivered in an old saw-mill, and a gentleman present, oi literary attainments, and pretty well versed in Greek and Roman history, said ''that he should never forget that sermon." It is spoken of as being thrillingly interesting throughout, and the wrapt audience listened to it with almost breathless attention for two hours. At the fourth session of the Ohio Annual Conference, which was held in Pitts- burgh, Pennsylvania, September, 1832, he was appointed to Highland Circuit, with Rev. Ben- jamin Ryan as assistant. These men were happily associated together. The pulpit ability of the superintendent none were disposed to dispute ; and the strong practical ability of the assistant was an essential element in the promo- tion of the work of the Lord. Mr. Ryan was a "son of thunder," and labored with all his strength for his Master. He labored for many years as an itinerant minister, and then as an unstationed minister within the bounds of the Ohio Annual Conference. DIVISION" OF THE OHIO COXFEREXCE. 118 He finally removed to tlie west, where he itinerated for several years, and as far as advised, he is still living in the enjoj^ment of a good old age, waiting for the Master's call. May the evening shades of life descend gently upon him, and his closing hours on earth be replete with happiness and hope ! With such men as these upon Highland Circuit, it is not surprising that success crowned their efibrts. It is a matter of regret that some of the old pioneers in the church, who were eminently successful in winning souls to Christ, were so little inclined to communicate their success to the church and the world, through the medium of the press. They cared very little for the praises of men, but labored on like men of God, and it was enough for them to know that their labor was not in vain in the Lord. The fifth session of the Ohio Annual Conference was held in Cincinnati, September, 1833. The growing interests of the church, in connection with the fact that several States were embraced within the bounds of the Ohio Conference, rendered it necessary that the Conference be divided : so at this session the Pittsburgh Con- ference was set off. Mr. Dobbins remained in the Ohio Conference, and was appointed again 8 114 LIFE OF RKV. ROUKKT DOBBIN'S. to Concord Circuit, retaiaing his old colleague, Mr. Ryan. The sixth session of the Ohio Conference was held in the city of Louisville, Kentucky, in October, 1834. It will be remembered that the subject of these sketches was, at this time, between sixty and seventy years old. He did not remove his family, as is the custom of itin- erants generally, but sustained what would be called a local itinerant relation to the Confer- ence. He mounted his horse and rode to his circuit, filling his appointments, and then re- turned to bis little farm and the bosom of his family. This local itinerant relation is thought by many good Christians to be an inefficient rela- tion to the church. It must be admitted that there are serious disadvantages in connection with a local itinerant relation to a Conference. To say the least, such a position will result in comparative inefficiency. It could not be expected to be otherwise, for the simple reason that the people seldom, if ever, see the minis- ter's family, and consequently are not in sym- pathy with them. • If the minister's family is a well regulated household, as every minister's family should be, the presence of that family in the circuit or LOCAL ITINERANCY. 115 station of wliich the husband is pastor, is of practical value and importance. Then, too, there is a mutual sympathy between the churcli and the minister's household, and a greater probability of a righteous compensation for services rendered. Again : A minister may have a good rea- son for not removing to his charge — such a reason as God would approve; still, the unwil- lingness of the preacher to change his domestic position will have an influence, apd often a very unfavorable influence against him. It is an easy matter to impugn the motives of a minis- ter, and facts in connection with his interests are not always properly appreciated. I know that it is often the case, that very inefficient provision is made for the minister's domestic comfort. Circuits in some instances provide for their preachers' families, as they do for a representation of their ecclesiastical inter- ests in Annual Conference. In the latter case, in the selection of a delegate to the Annual Conference, the question often is, not " Who will be suitable to represent us?" but, "Who will go ?" So, in the former case, the question fre- quently is, not " Where can we find a suitable dwelhng for our minister's family ? " but, 116 LIFE OF KKV. ROHKRT DOBBINS. " Where can we get a hoase ?" and I have seen a number of these houses. I rejoice in my heart that these days of reck- less indifference to the preacher's domestic welfiire are nearly past. May tlic evil to which we refer cease altogether, Amen ! At tlie Conference in Louisville, Kentucky, Mr. Dob- bins was appointed assistant to Rev. A. McGuire, on Washington Circuit, and at the seventh session, which convened at Madison, Indiana, he was appointed superintendent of Washing- ton Circuit, with one to be supplied. His services on this circuit were not unfruit- ful, as we will presently see. At the close of this year's service, he attended the eighth session of the Ohio Annual Conference, which convened in Cincinnati, August, 1836, and was by that body elected to the Presidency of the Conference. Before entering upon the duties of the office to which he was elected, he wrote a letter to the Editor of the Correspondent^ Rev. C. Springer, giving an account of the spiritual condition of Washington Circuit, the charge from which he had just retired. We have already intimated that he wrote very little for the press during his ministerial life, and could only be persuaded to write when impelled by a sense of duty. LETTER. 117 When lie wrote for the press, he made no effort at adornment, but wrote in plain Anglo- Saxon his plain, earnest thoughts, as the follow- ing letter will show. It was written at James- town, Green county, Ohio, and is dated Septem- ber 19, 1836, and Is as follows : " Brother C. Springer : — For the encourage- ment of our beloved brethren in this western world, I will give you a general history of matters and things as they stood on Washing- ton Circuit at the close of the past conference year. Our fourth quarterly meeting and camp-meeting together, commenced on Friday, the 19th of August, and closed on Tuesday following, on the farm of Brother Creamer. " We were blessed with fine, pleasant weather; a large congregation of attentive hearers at- tended throughout the meeting, and, thank the good Lord, bur brethren in the ministry from a distance attended manfully. We had a very precious time from the commencement to the end; at the close of the meeting there were twenty-six joined our infant church, and forty two adults and children baptized. '^I can safely say that Washington Circuit in the general is in peace and harmony, and the friends of Zion are looking up. There has been taken into society on this circuit the past 118 LIFE OF RKV. ROBERT DOBBINS. year ninety-six members. We have generally been all around our circuit, good congrega- tions and attentive hearers, and many applica- tions for new appointments. (He then gives a plan of appointments for the year upon which he had just entered as president of the Confer- ence and closes with) Yours in the bonds of Christian fellowship, Kobert Dobbins, Presi- dent Ohio Annual Conference." At the ninth session of the Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church, which convened at Springfield, Clark county, Ohio, August 29, 1837, Mr. Dobbins was ap- pointed to the charge of Kehoboth Circuit; and at the succeeding session of the same Con- ference, which was held in Cincinnati, he re- ceived an appointment to Washington Circuit, ■with Eev. W. Williams as assistant. The eleventh session of the Ohio Annual Conference was held at the stone chapel on Lawrenceburgh Circuit, Indiana, in August, 1839. At this Conference he was appointed to Xenia and Rehoboth Circuit, with Rev. I. Edwards as assistant; and at the succeeding session in Cincinnati, in 1840, he was re-ap- pointed to the same charge, with Rev. 0. P. Stephens as an associate. He then served APPOINTED TO WASHINGTON CIKCUIT. 119 Springfield Circuit two successive years (1841- 42). The fifteenth session of the Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church, convened in Bellbrook, Green county, Ohio, September 20, 1843. At this Conference, Mr. Dobbins received an appointment to Washing- ton Circuit, with Rev. J. Pelan as assistant. During the Conference year of 1844-45, he sus- tained the relation of supernumerary assist- ant to Revs. R. Rose and R. T. Boyd, on "Washington Circuit, and then in 1845-6, he had charge of Clarksville Circuit. During this year he wrote an encouraging account of his circuit, under date of March 11, 1846. At the close of this letter the Editor of the Western Recorder wrote a short editorial, which is as follows : — " Our aged Brother Dobbins has nearly completed his seventy-seventh year, but has been enabled to endure the toils of a labo- rious circuit, through the recent severe winter. Often have we sympathized with him in his exposures and toils ; may he be strengthened to ' endure unto the end,' and find that great is his reward in heaven. Ed. W. R." At the succeeding Conference, which was held in Springfield, Clark county, Ohio, Sep- tember 9, 1846, he was re-appointed to Clarks- ville Circuit, and in the fiill of 1847, his name 120 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. stands as supernumerary assistant on Washing- ton Circuit. At the twentieth session of the Ohio Annual Conference, which convened at Lebanon, War- ren county, Ohio, September 6, 1848, the name of Washington Circuit was changed to Sugar Creek Circuit, and lie was appointed to the superintendency of this work. He declined rci^rular service from the succeediuGj Annual Conference, which was held in Bainbridge, Boss county, Ohio. Still he was not idle, as the following letter will ^how. It was written ''at-, home," and is dated August 13, 1850. From this letter it appears he had received an invitation to visit a distant point in Adams county, Ohio. He complied with this invita- tion, visited the place, found no preacher there, but quite a congregation had come to hear the Word of Life. Under these circumstances, he says: "Finding the people gloomy, my old motto, 'go aliead,' struck me, and I felt like putting on the harness, jmd to work I went. I endeavored to preach four times, and closed with forming a class of fourteen members. I likewise administered the Lord's Supper to a sick family," &;c. It will be remembered that the subject of these pages, at the time of which we write was DAY OF FASTING AND PRAYER. 121 eighty years old. His effectiveness at this period is certainly very remarkable. Eiding miles on horseback throug^h the storms of winter and the heat of summer, and preaching not only with acceptability, but frequently with great practical efficiency, is certainly very surprising. About this time that terrible epidemic, cho- lera, prevailed in many places in the United States, and the President,, Zachary Taylor, appointed a day of fasting and prayer to be observed throughout the States. On tbat day a meeting was appointed in Mr. Dobbins' neigh- borhood, and quite a concourse of people came out to wait before God in prayer and other exercises. The services were introduced with the usual preliminaries, and a sermon from Mr. Dobbins. Before the close of these exercises, an opportunity was given for persons to unite with the church. A number came forward, and several who united with the church on that occasion are pillars in the church at this time (1868.) This fast day observance was the beginning of a revival of religion at that place. The meeting was finally transferred to the house of Mr. Henry Burnett, less than a mile away. On the succeeding Sabbath a great congrega- 122 LIFE OP KEV. ROBERT DOBBINS. tion assembled with the expectation of hearing a discourse from Mr. Dobbins. Although so far advanced in years, and in " his own country," the people regarded it as a special favor to sit under his ministrations. There was another minister present, Kev. Daniel Riley, who was invited by Mr. Dobbins to occupy the morning hour. As Mr. Riley is now no more among men, I deem it a duty to the living and the dead to record a few things concerning this singular man. Mr. Riley accepted the invita- tion to preach, and selected the following text as a foundation for his sermon : " I am he that liveth, and w^as dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore. Amen ; and have the keys of hell and of death." — Rev. i. 18. The appearance of the preacher was not very prepossessing. He was about forty years old, and rather tall and slender, with a large head and strongly marked facial expression, and a characteristic gravity of countenance,* with a head of hair between which and the barber's toilet there was evidently very little affinity ; and an imaginative mind wo aid have found very little difficulty in seeing embryo nests among: its tanp^led tufts. On the occasion to which we refer, a certain Judge Jimeson was present, and when the preacher rose to com- REV. DANIEL RILEY. 123 mence the service, the Judge was very much disappointed, and was half inclined to leave and go honie — said he would have done so, had it not been for the respect he entertained for Messrs. Dobbins and Burnett. The preliminary services being over, the text was announced, and after a brief exordium, the preacher arose with the inspiration of the occasion, and with a soul full of the sacred theme he had selected, he shot the arrows of the Lord with such logical precision at the heads and hearts of the people, that, not only the Judge, but others in that assembly, were charmed by the eloquence of the preacher, and sat liivc fixed statues, listening to the words of truth from this wonderful man. Mr. Riley, however, was not always the preacher we have represented him to be in the preceding sketch. His ministerial life was a singular anomaly, a strange compound of oppo- site ingredients ; frequently reticent and sharp- edged, occasionally social and free, sometimes a Saul among the Prophets, at other times com- paratively inefficient ; in social converse always instructive and interesting, possessing a strong logical mind, so that in the pulpit it was fre- quentl}^ difficult to decide which to admire the most, his logical power or the spiritual pathos 124 LIFE OF UP:V. ROBERT DOBBINS. that attended the Word. The former was oftei; all ablaze with the inspiration of the latter. I will give an instance as an illustration of the preceding remarks. A few years ago, the writer of these pages made an official visit to one of the circuits in the Ohio District. On Saturday evening Mr. Riley was present and invited to preach. He complied. His text was 1 John iii. 1, 2. I will not- attempt to describe his sermon. It was grand beyond description, and the spirit- ual power that attended the discourse was remarkable. There are persons living who will never forget that sermon, in time or in eternity. On the following Monday morning he was to deliver a funeral discourse, on occasion of the death of a citizen not far from the place of our meeting. The morning came. The people assembled ; the remains of the. deceased were brought into the church ; but it was with great difficulty that Mr. Riley could be prevailed on to preach at all ; and it was not until one or two messengers had been sent to him, that he could be persuaded to come. ■ He finally came, ascended the pulpit, and after prayer, he rose and sung a hymn that I presume no one there had ever heard before, DEATH OF MR. RILEY. 125 and to a tune I think never before heard, and in a sepulchral, weird-like tone of voice, and then announced the following text: "Thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass.'' — Job xiv. 5. It was soon apparent that the harp was unstrung. Some of its notes were beautiful indeed; there was an occasional passage that was truly eloquent, thinly scattered here and there like gems upon a barren heath. The sermon, in the aggregate, was regarded as a failure. Such was this singular man. In some respects Mr. Riley was certainly an extraordi- nary man. When the elements of his mental nature were in harmony, he awakened an inter- est in the soul of the man of letters by his Ciceronian power, and stirred the mind of the multitude with his thrilling utterances. But the harp was not always in tune. He was sometimes as weak, perhaps weaker, than other men. He died, I learn, about two years ago, in Vanwert coiinty, Ohio, in the full assur- ance of a blessed immortality, and I have never seen even a newspaper account of his death. I therefore thought it due the memory of that departed minister, in whom weakness and strength were singularly combined, to write what I have written. Christian warrior, rest in peace! 126 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. CHAPTER IX. Mr. T>obbins requested and obtained a Superannuated Relation to the Couference— Reflections— Quotations— PeatU of Rev. Sanford H. Euans — Funeral Services at the Ohio Annual Conference, on the Death of Mr. Euans— Continued Labors— Quotations from Letters — Death of Mr. Dobbins' Daughter Eliza— Poem by Mrs. A. H. B. THE twenty-second session of the Ohio Annual Conference was held in Cincin- nati in the fall of 1850. The Conference was opened with appropriate religious exercises by Mr. Dobbins, then in his eighty-first year. At this Conference he thought it advisable to request a superannuated relation to the Confer- ence. Who can tell the emotions of a devoted minister of the Lord Jesus Christ when com- pelled by age and infirmity to retire from the regular work of the ministry ? Yet, as painful as the sacrifice may be, such is the destiny of the aged minister, sooner or later. The decree has gone forth, " Thus far shalt thou go, and no further." This necessity also impresses upon the mind of the man of God an admoni- tory lesson. He is reminded of the truth that he is rapidly approaching the boundary that separates the seen from the unseen world. The minister who is prepared by grace to endure SUPERANNUATED RELATION. 127 this privation meekly, and in the spirit of Christian resignation, is prepared to exert a hallowed influence upon all around him. The glowing beauty of old age, when sancti- fied by the grace of God, and almost ripe for the far away land on the other side of the river, is a scene that may well challenge our attention and attract our hearts. Such men are a blessing to any community. It is an interesting fact that in nearly all the pro- fessions, assiduous application in early life, in connection with ultimate age and experience, contribute greatly to render the subjects of toil efficient and interesting when age is upon them. The lawyer, who, in early life, applies his mind with untiring assiduity to legal study, has a reasonable expectation that in coming years his services will be sought, and bis men- tal toils compensated ; and he is not disap- pointed. The physician, whose life has been industriously devoted to his profession, is amply repaid for all his labor, not only by the esteem and respect of his fellow men, but also by the ample patronage he receives from an appreci- ative community. The man of letters, whose passion for knowledge has led him to apply his mind with untiring assiduity to his books while others slept, is encouraged in coming 128 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. years by the fact that his services arc in demand, and liberally compensated. Such is the case with the professions generally. It has been thought by some that the ministerial pro- fession is, to some extent, an exception to this rule. We may, with safety, venture the remark, that there is, to too great an extent, a morbid condition of the public mind which has led the people to prefer the zeal of youth to the wisdom of age, and, as a consequence, the experienced minister is in some instances laid aside to make room for the young and ardent declaimer. It must be admitted, at the same time, that the popularity and acceptability of ministers whether young or old, depends, to a considerable extent, upon themselves. It is sometimes the case that aged ministers, like other aged men, become suspicious, petu- lant, and even censorious, and thereby render themselves very disagreeable to all around them. It is not a matter of surprise if such should be unacceptable, however wise or learned they might be. On the other hand, I have known aged ministers whose amiability of spirit shone out with increasing luster as years came upon them, whose minds were richly stored with varied knowledge, whose pulpit services were highly appreciated as long as BEFLEOTIONS. 129 tbey were able to labor. The services of such men will always be valuable ; if not to the super- ficial class of the community, they will be of incalculable service to the thoughtful and appre- ciative part of humanity. We pray that the blessing of God may rest upon our fathers in the ministry. We love to be with them, and listen to the words of instruction from their lips. On the other hand, I have known young ministers who, for the most part, depended for success upon native zeal and practical inven- tion, apparently forgetful of the fact that time would deprive them of their capital, and leave them, in old age, like a deserted mansion, with its departed wealth and its furniture gone. It would not be a matter of surprise, if such persons should render themselves uninteresting in the decline of life. To be otherwise, would be marvelous. We rejoice to know that the youthful ministers in our church, are, in the general, both zealous and intelligent, and bid fair to be of great service to the church of God. May God bless them all ! We return to our narrative. Although we now find Mr. Dobbins on the superannuated list, we are not to infer from that fact that he was idle. Even during this year he labored consid- erably within the bounds of Sugar Creek Cir- 9 130 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. cuit. tlie circuit on which he lived. His zeal in his Master's service was unabated, and doubtless too great for his physical strength. As an evidence of his continued zeal and inter- est for the welfare of his race, we notice, at the close of a letter written by Rev. S. H. Euans, Superintendent of Sugar Creek Circuit, to tho editor of the church paper, these lines: ''Just say to the President that Brother Dobbins will take a field of labor anywhere in the District." The President of the Conference, in writing to the editor of the Western Recorder, after giving an account of a pleasant visit with the vener- able minister, says : '' The old gentleman had just got home from Port William Circuit, where he is engaged in the good work, and though in his eighty-third year, labor appears to be rest." The twenty-third session of the Ohio Annual Conference was held in Gilboa, Putnam county, Ohio, in September, 1851. Joy and sorrow, so frequently found in close proximity, were ingre- dients in the cup of the members of this body. The greeting was pleasant and soul-inspiring. "Where is the minister who fails to recognize in these annual meetings a genuine pleasure ? After a year's separation, a Conference associa- tion is indeed a balm to the heart. Though DEATH OF REV. S. H. EUANS. 131 the Gilboa Conference greeting was pleasant to many hearts, the friendly hand had scarcely unloosed its grasp before a sad note fell upon the ear, thrilling all hearts with sadness and sorrow, that one of its chief ministers had fallen during the year. Though sad, it was true, that Sanford H. Euans was dead. He had died during the latter part of the Conference year. Were it not that an extended notice of this singularly gifted minister may ultimately appear, we would write more concerning him here. Suf- fice it to say now, that sundry resolutions were passed by the Conference in reference to the death of Brother Euans. The third resolution in the series is as fol- lows: " Resolved^ That Brother Robert Dobbins, the oldest member of the Conference, be requested, at some time during the present session, to deliver a discourse or address in reference to the death of Brother Euans, and in reference to the responsibilities of Christ's ministers, in view of a readiness to render up their account with joy." The sermon of Mr. Dobbins on the death of the departed minister was delivered on Sabbath afternoon during the Conference session. It 132 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. contained valuable items in connection with the deceased, and was listened to with profound attention. The presence of so venerable a man in the pulpit, and his words of wisdom, could not be otherwise than appreciated by the con- siderate hearer. He still sustained a superan- nuated relation to the Conference. Though the weight of years was upon him, his presence was sought, and his counsels regarded by his juniors in the ministry, and many encomiums written by Presidents of the Conference in their visits to his peaceful home. The following is from the pen of Rev. J. M. Flood, President of the Conference this year: ''From White Oak we accompanied Father Dobbins to his pleasant, peaceful home, yet not to be compared to that celestial home ; ' that house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens,' soon to be possessed by this faithful veteran of the cross. He yet enjoys physical and mental vigor rarely possessed by a man of his age, being eighty-four years old. May the last rays of the sun of life cheer this faith- ful old servant of God, and may it be our hap- piness to meet him there !" And then, a year or two later, we still have the evidence of una- bated zeal in the Master's service, but of gradually declining physical powers. QUOTATIONS FROM LETTERS. 133 At the close of the year 1853. we have this line from E. J. Winans, Superintendent of Sugar Creek Circuit. Speaking of a meeting in his charge, he says: "Father Dobbins was on the walls, and though not able to sound the trumpet with all the force of his former days, yet he caused the heart of the hardened man of sin to quail before the shafts of truth." The same writer, in a subsequent letter, dated June 10, 1854, thus speaks of the subject of these pages: ''Father Dobbins is still with us, and engaged in the Master's work. The hand of time has not abated his interest in the prosper- ity of Zion, and he bears the weight of four- score and six years with but little detriment to the physical and mental man; while the spiritual man seems to wax stronger, as his pilgrimage lengthens here below. Every time his experience is given in our morning meet- ings, it seems as if there was a special provi- dence in the preservation of this veteran of the cross beyond the days of those who first stood with him upon the battlements of Zion. His retrospects of the past are strong rebukes against the repinings and murmurings of us who are called upon to preac-h Christ with so few discouragements attendant upon our minis- 134 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. try. There are no regrets for the time spent in the service of the Lord, no magnifying of the toils and privations of the pioneer life, but all in gratitude that he has been accounted worthy of the gospel of Christ. Heaven and immortality in prospect are to him ample com- pensation for sixty years' conflict with the King's enemies." These quotations are valu- able, as they reveal the spirit and character of the venerable subject of these pages at an advanced period in life. The following quotation is from Kev. 0. P. Stephens, who was President of the Ohio Con- ference, during the years 1856-7. The letter is dated February 26, 1857. We read : " On Thursday, February 26, I called at the resi- dence of the venerable Robert Dobbins, who, for considerably over half a century, has been a faithful and able minister of the New Testament. Though little short of ninety years of age. he has assisted in the pulpit exercises at several meetings during the past winter. But his manly form begins to tremble under the weight of years, and in his own opinion, it is extremely doubtful whether he ever meets with his brethren again in Conference. The first year of my itinerating, Father Dobbins was my DEATH OF HIS DAUGHTER ELIZA. 135 colleague, and long shall I remember his coun- sels, which were given with a mild and affable spirit. May his example be emulated by those who shall come after." He was present at two sessions of the Ohio Annual Conference after this period. His pathetic address at the Con- ference in Mechanicsburg, Ohio, in September, 1858, the last he ever attended, will not soon be forgotten. In his declining years he was called to endure a severe domestic affliction, which weighed heavily upon his spirit. His young- est daughter, Mrs. Eliza J. Jemi^n, died in her western home soon after her marriage. This daughter remained with her parents, in single life, for a number of years after reaching the period of womanhood. She was tenderly devoted to her father, and was ever ready, with an affectionat^heart and willing hand, to confer some little attention upon her aged parent ; and being a lady, naturally, of more than ordi- nary understanding, her words and suggestions were like sunshine upon the pathway of the aged pilgrim. This lady finally married and removed to the west, accompanied by her aged father to her distant home. Mr. Dobbins remained with his daughter a few weeks, and 136 lifl: of rlv. Robert dobbins. then returned to his Ohio home. Scarcely a year had glided away before the sad intelli- gence came from the west that Eliza was dead. This news fell like a leaden weight upon the father's heart. The shock was almost beyond endurance. Friends sympathized with him in this sad hour of trial. A neat and appropriate poem, written on the death of his daughter, by a Christian lady, may be inserted here : LINES IirSCRIBED TO HEV. ROBERT DOBBINS, OCCASIONED BT THE BECBHT DEATH OF HIS AFFECTIONATE DAUGHTER, ELIZA. BY MRS. A. H. BASSETT. Father, thou hast traveled long, la life's varied, toilsome way, 'Till thy garments are time-worn, And thy locks grown thin and gray. Many a conflict hast thou had, Oft with foes in fierce array; Laurels all unsought hast won. In thy long and well-spent day. Most of those whose names, with thine, Were at morn upon the roll. Aye, and numbers entered .^iuce, Have before thee reached the goal : But a few there yet remain — Long the partners of thy toil. Who with thee have fought and led, Vanquished foes, and taken spoil. Brave defenders of the right, Foes of tyranny and sin. Leaders in our pilgrim ranks, All true Greathearts they have been ; POEM BY A LADY. 137 Still the spirit, brave and strong, "Would do battle as of yore; But the evening shadows fall — Drawing near to Jordan's shore We are wont to press their stay Long upon the hither side, Though a rich inheritance Lies but just beyond the tide; Though from out their palace towers, Just within the golden gate, White arms beckon them across — Loved ones in their mansions wait. Father, precious treasure there, Safely garnered, waits for thee. Mother, all thy sundered ties There shall re-unit^d be Is an idol daughter's face Missing from the household band ? Lost her cheerful, loving heart. Ready step and willing hand ? She has only gone before To the dwelling, new and fair, And that dear, familiar face Soon shall smile upon you there. O, we would indulge the thought That loved ones from that bright sphere, On some heavenly errand come. Often mingle with us here : And that oft, though all unseen. When ye walk along the way. Or around the cottage door Gather at the close of day Or in silent watch of night. Or at solemn hour of prayer. With a gentle angel guard. The dear absent cometh there,— 138 LIFE OF REV. EGBERT DOBBINS. Sw<'otly to tlu' Htrickpa group, Whif^IMTing thoughts of lioly obeer— Breatliings of tho better homn, Where there falleth no sad tear. Father, mother, weep no more ; — List ! the soft, sweet accents low Ye sliall soon be with me there, Just beyond the river's flow ; Soon shall lay your armor by, rilgrim staflF, and sandals worn, Lave your feet in Jordan's wave, And across the tide be borne. Husband, brothers, sister dear. May ye join us on that shore, Where the re-united band Shall be parted nevermore. MEETING IN OLD UNION CHAPEL. 139 CHAPTER X. Meeting in the Old Union Chapel in Fayette County, Ohio— Labors while sustaining a Superannuated Relation to the Conference- Farewell Exhortation — Sickness — Note to the Editor of the Church Paper — Interviews with Mr. Henry Burnett, Esq. — State of his Mind — Illustrations — Mr. Dobbins' Views of the Duties of American Citi- zens — Particularly interested in certain passages of Scripture — His Death — Burial — Tomb — Conference Resolutions — Reminiscence — Funeral at the Old Union Chapel — Services at Conference by Rev. William B. Evans. TOWARDS the close of Mr. Dobbins' itin- erant life, and only a short time before he requested a superannuated relation to the Conference, he attended a regular appointment at the Old Union Chapel — a venerable, hewed- log meeting-house not far from his residence. This dilapidated building still stands as a relic of other days ; and as the senior preachers of the Conference and elder brethren of the church pass this old temple, they are reminded of many scenes of thrilling interest that transpired within its walls. They are reminded of vast assemblages of people gathered here ; of soul- stirring sermons delivered from the pulpit by ministers, some of whom have long since gone to their reward ; of weeping penitents bowing at the altar and the shouts of new-born souls 140 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. ascending to heaven, while angels rejoiced at the achievements of the cross. But while the temple is in ruins, in the distance may be seen a beautiful church where the sons and daugh- ters of the veterans of other days worship the God of their fathers. Mr. Dobbins, as we have said, held a meeting here near the close of his itinerant career. At the close of his sermon he gave an opportunity for persons to unite with the church, and four persons came forward and gave their hands to the minister. He then announced his appointment for three weeks from that time. The time arrived. The minister was on hand, and delivered his message at eleven o'clock in the morning, and in the after- noon h-e delivered a sacramental discourse. This sacramental service was destined to be a memorable occasion to the inhabitants of that region — a cloud of glory rested upon the peo- ple, and after the disciples of Jesus had received the emblems of Christ's broken body and shed blood, an opportunity was given for persons to unite with the church, when sixteen persons rose almost simultaneously, and went forward to the altar. These persons were chiefly heads of families. This was the beginning of a great work of grace in that neighborhood — not so INTERESTING SERVICE. 141 miicb on account of tlie number, but in conse- quence of the permanent character of the work. As the fruit of this revival, about twenty- seven persons united with the church ; and at this distant day, after the lapse of nearly twenty years, this revival is spoken of as one of the most permanent works of grace ever enjoyed in that country. Quite a number of persons who united with the church then, are its strong pillars to-day. The veteran preacher was very happy during all this meeting, and when the sixteen came forward, the silver- haired old prophet could retain his emotions no longer — the vessel was full — overflowing; and with a countenance radiant with living luster, and his lips touched with a live coal from the altar of God, and the strong lines of his face revealing the sacred baptism of the soul, the old priest threw himself back upon his seat and shouted, '' Glory /" What a beautiful close of an itinerant life ! We often hear the Christian pray that his "last days may be his best days," and the Christian minister who has been faithful to his trust, may feel, when the noon-day of life is past, and the shadows of the coming eve are gathering around him, that the glory of his latter days is richer and sweeter than the early 112 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. budding and blossoming of the Christian graces in the spring-time of spiritual joy. During the years that Mr. Dobbins sustained a superannu- ated relation to the Conference, he performed a considerable amount of ministerial service, and was generally present at the Quarterly Confer- ences of the circuit on which he lived, partici- pating in the business of these meetings, and taking a deep interest in the spiritual welfare of the circuit ; and though so far advanced in years, he was frequently persuaded to fill the pulpit at the popular hour on the Sabbath day. And on such occasions his sermons were re- garded as highly instructive and edifying. If, at this period, his discourses lacked, to some extent, the diffusive element, this deficiency was more than compensated by an intelligent statement of his theme, in connection with lucidity of argument and compactness of thought — elements highly important in a Chris- tian minister. His sermons at this period were in truth multum in 'parvo^ for they were not only free from all redundancy, but consisted of thoughts grouped together in logical harmony, comprising many members, and yet presenting ' a beautiful unity, which gave point and power to his pulpit messages. And although he " drew the bow at a ven- ACTIVE OLD AGE. l-iS ture," his eye was steadily fixed upon the mark ; having no time for the accumulation of superfluous or irrelevant thoughts, as these, in his estimation, would only embarrass his theme, and render that feeble and inefficient that God intended to be strong. Such, at least, is the judgment of the writer, who knew him quite well at the period of which we write. We have now reached the sun-set of life in the history of the subject of these sketches, and we feel that twilight shadows are gathering around. While trembling with age, and his manly form bowed with the weight of many years, his soul is still alive with interest for the salvation of his fellow-men. He has never forgotten that he is a minister of Jesus Christ, and with emo- tions such as none but the aged minister may feel, he is prompted to go once more to the family church. This occurred six or eight months before his death, and is supposed to be the last public service he ever attended. So, in accordance with his cherished wish, he found his way to the Old Union Chapel, and delivered a farewell exhortation to the people. It was like a father in conversation with his children. There he stood, in all the noble dignity of moral great- ness and matured Christian character. His 144 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. form is bowed, it is true, and his hair is sil- vered o'er with age, but his eye is as bright as ever, and now the tremulous tones of his voice vibrate upon the ears of attentive listeners, like the gentle touches of the night wind upon the silken strings of an aeolian harp, and all present are moved with emotion, and great thoughts are awakened within, such as were never felt be- fore. The venerable preacher said, that "it was probable he never would address them again," and then, with words of burning fervor, he taught them the way of salvation once more, and then paused — what a pause was that — he stood for a few moments with a countenance all aglow with the inspiration of heaven, weeping tears of affection and joy ; he then resumed his exhortation, weeping over the people, calhng them his children, and at the close he reached out his trembling hand, and invited sinners to come to Jesus. Seven came forward and gave their hands to the venerable preacher. Thus closed a service long, long to be re- membered. This meeting ended his public labors on earth. He was confined to his bed about three weeks, and these were weeks of great anxiety and solicitude with his neighbors and the church. There were frequent inquiries as to his condition, and a few days before his THE SUNSET OF LIFE. 145 death, a note was sent to the editor of the church paper, by brother M. Henkle, in substance as follows: ''Our aged brother, Rev. R. Dobbins, is, to all appearance, near his end. I think he cannot last long, but he is calm and resigned, and has a prospect of a bright and glorious future." At a certain time during his illness, an old neighbor and brother in the church, Henry Burnett, called upon him and found him in a very melancholy and dejected condition of mind. All was dark, dark; no ray of light was permitted then to enter that great soul. Mr. Burnett conversed with him, and directed his mind to the promises of the Gospel, and re- ferred him to his past experience as a Christian minister. The mental condition of the dying minister at this time was an enigma in Christian expe- rience that Mr. Burnett did not then under- stand. After this conference between these aged men, in which the layman had become the preacher, Mr. Burnett returned to his home, and came back the next morning. As soon as he entered the room of the dying prophet, his ears were saluted with the words, "Brother Burnett, all is light ! light ! and there is no darkness at all. My way is clear, bless the Lord!" ^ 10 146 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. Such, perhaps, is the experience of most Christians. The tempter is ever on the alert, and pursues God's chosen ones even to the gate of death. There are peculiarities in Christian experience that none, perhaps, but those who are deeply versed in the things of God, may fully understand. Mr. Dobbins was not only a Christian minister, but a lover of his country, and deeply interested in her welfare. He main- tained the position that it was the duty of min- isters, as well as others, to avail themselves of every facility at command to become acquaint- ed with the political history of their country. He thought that the liberties of the people of the United States were too dearly bought to permit them to remain inactive, and thereby incur the danger of losing those political privi- leges which were secured at the expense of human blood. Therefore, he thought it the duty of every American citizen to cast his vote on days of election. He regarded a practical interest in his coun- try's welfare as being next to the duties of re- ligion. When upon his dying bed, the Con- .gress of the United States had assembled at Washington, and there appears to have been some difficulty in effecting an organization of DEATH -BED CONVERSATIONS. 147 that body, Mr. Burnett coming into the sick man's chamber, Mr. Dobbins addressed him as follows : " Mr. Burnett, I desire to ask you a question, and you may think it a simple question for a dying man to ask. It is this : Has Congress organized yet ?" This expression of interest in connection with civil affairs, was in perfect harmony with his well-known love of country. On another occa- sion, in conversation with Mr. Burnett, he con- versed in a very animated manner upon subjects of undying interest, and among other matters, he referred to a part of the eighth chapter of Komans, especially the latter part of the chap- ter, commenting particularly upon the follow- ing passage — " The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God : And if children, then heirs ; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified to- gether. For I reckon that the sufi'erings of this present time are not worthy to be com- pared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." Eom. viii. 16, 17, 18. What a theme for a dying minister! Who could have sat in that death chamber and have heard the expositions 148 LIFE OF REV. ROliERT DOBBINS. of the dying preacher without feeling the force of the poetic sentiment by Coleridge : " Is that a (leatli-l)(!d whore the Cliristian lies ? Yes, but uot his ; 'tis death itself there dies." Permit me, Christian reader, to say that I have never felt the force and fullness of the scriptural passages quoted above, as I have since I com- menced writing these lines. " The Spirit itself beareth witness," &c. Oh ! what an evidence of discipleship. " And if children, then heirs ; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ." Oh ! what a relationship is here indicated ; and the incomparable glory which shall be revealed in the Christian, eternity alone will be able to unfold. No wonder that the venerable man selected these verses as a theme of thought and conversation, as he was about to close his eyes upon earthly things. It brought him into still closer relationship with Jesus. During all his sickness he murmured not, but in the true' spirit of Christian philosophy, trusted in the Kedeemer, and patiently waited until his change came, and finally, on the morning of January 18, 1860, it was evident that he was approaching the river of death. His family and a few friends gathered around the dying one, and the last distinct utterance DEATH OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. 149 that fell from his lips was, "Yes, Eliza! I'll soon be there." He said more than this, but what it was, none on earth may know — it is treasured up in the mind of God. ^ It will be remembered that he lost a beloved daughter a few years before, which made a strong impression upon his mind; and it is a matter worthy of note that when his daughter lay upon her dying bed, hundreds of miles away from the home of her youth, that nearly her last words were, "Poor pa! no! he is not poor, he is rich." May it not be that the aged pilgrim, as he was approaching the other shore, saw this loved daughter, and gave an evidence in his closing moments that he would soon rejoin her beyond the river where loved ones meet again ? "W ho can tell ? The body of Mr. Dobbins was arrayed in a plain black suit of citizen's clothes, with a white cravat around the neck, and laid in a metallic case. The day of burial was very unfavorable ; still a large concourse of persons followed the remains to the grave. He was buried in the cemetery contiguous to Washington, the county seat of Fayette county, Ohio. His grave is an unpretending spot. It is adorned with a plain obelisk about nine feet high, bearing the following inscription : 150 LIFE OF RFV. R0BP:RT DOBBINS. "ROBERT DOBBINS. DIED Jan. 13, 1860, AGED 92 Years, 8 Months, 23 Days." At the Ohio Annual Conference succeeding his death, which was held in Springfield, Ohio, September 19, 1860, the committee on Obitua- ries made the following report, which was adopted unanimously by rising vote : " Whereas, It has pleased Almighty God to remove from our midst, within the past year, our venerable brother, Rev. Robert Dobbins, for many years regarded as the patriarch of this Conference ; therefore, ^'Resolved, That in view of the rare piety, disinterestedness and devotion of our deceased friend, to the interests of the church, we have reorarded him durinor hig life as a blessinoj to the world, and gratefully acknowledge the good- ness of God in continuing him to us so long. " Resolved, That we regard with sincere sorrow the removal of Brother Dobbins from amongst us, but rejoice in the full assurance that he has gone to his eternal reward in a better state, and pray that we who survive may be enabled to follow his godly steps. CONFERENCE RESOLUTIONS. 151 *' Resolved, That a funeral discourse be deliv- ered during the present session by Kev. W. B. Evans, on the death of Brother Dobbins." In accordance with the third resolution in the series, Sabbath evening was selected as tlie time for the funeral services. So at an early hour the house was crowded with attentive hearers to listen to a discourse from the venera- ble Eev. W. B. Evans, so well and favorably known throughout the denomination. At the close of the sermon, an interesting paper, per- taining to the life and character of the deceased, was read by Kev. A. H. Bassett. Thus closed the Conference services in rela- tion to the death of its oldest member. Soon after the death of this venerable man, the writer of these jtages wrote a '' Reminiscence," which was published in the church paper, which may be reproduced here. REMINISCENCE— REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. Let us pause and weep, for we have lost a friend ; we have been bereaved, and our hearts are sad. God hath spoken, and he is ''right- eous in all his ways." Still we feel oppressed and lonely in spirit. We feel, deeply feel our loss. Be still, rebellious heart ! let no murmur- ings escape thee. " Be still and know that I 152 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. am God." The death of a good and great man may well arrest the tide of thought in its on- ward march in the great battle of life, and yield to reflection and tears. Those events which once appeared trivial and unimportant, now assume a commanding interest. Friday, August 26th, 1859, six months ago, found me on the way to White Oak, the place of my official visit for Sugar Creek Circuit. I concluded to spend the night with the aged brother whose name stands at the head of this article. Arriving in the twilight of the even- ing, I entered the sitting-room, and beheld near the door the manly form of the aged divine. There he sat, in his patriarchal dignity and venerable beauty, dressed in white, with a white cap upon his head, his dark slippers forming a fine contrast to the snow-white costume in which he was arrayed. He did not at first re- cognize me, it being nearly dark ; but a slight inclination of the head brought forth the words, warm from the heart, *' Brother Caddy, I am glad to see you." He walked into the dining- room to his meals, and appeared in his usual health. I had proposed during the evening to take him with me to my appointment, if he desired to go. So in the morning, while I was out preparing to leave for my meet- REMINISCENCES. 153 ing, some eight miles distant, he came out to me and said, in substance, " I am in a dilemma; I would like to go to White Oak and see my friends once more, but fear it would not be ad- visable ; I am so helpless." I replied: ''Father Dobbins, I will, with pleasure, take you with me, and bring you back again." After a moment's hesitation, he said, " Well, I'll go." He was soon in readiness and we started, and who could be weary in riding with such a man ? At the close of the sermon at one o'clock, he made remarks from the pulpit, expressing his hope in Christ, with tears streaming down his face, and with a heart burdened and interested for sinners. On Mon- day morning, with a tremulous voice, he spoke again. Among other things, he said : " What would be my condition now, if I was an old gray-haired sinner, without a hope in Christ ? But, blessed be the Lord! I feel that I am on my way to heaven, and will soon be there." On Monday night he had a severe attack of colic, which came near proving fatal ; but in the morning he was better, and as I entered his room, he remarked, " Well, brother Caddy, I am not sorry that I gave my heart to God long years ago. It is my comfort and solace now that age and infirmity is upon me. The part- 154 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. ing scene at the house of brother Robert Pattbn, will not soon be forgotten. Several persons were there, among others brother Eowe and ■wife. He gave a word of counsel and encourage- ment to each one separately. It was like a father parting with his children. It was a time of weeping, and yet of rejoicing. In com- ing to this meeting, he suffered much incon- venience on account of the buggy seat being too low ; so to remedy this inconvenience, we lashed the back part of a broken chair to the back of the carriage seat, thus forming a com- fortable rest for the occupant. This arrange- ment being made, we left the neighborhood, and spent the first night on our way back with brother Peter Yanpelt. I never, until now, was so fully aware of the helplessness of my venerable charge. At the supper table he said to the lady, with his usual politeness and grace, " You will please excuse me, sister, but if you please, you will give me my cofi'ee in a tin cup ; I cannot use a cup and saucer as formerly (his nerves being much deranged), and you will suf- fer me to eat in my own way ? " This was all affectionately assented to. When he retired to tis bedroom, he called me to him, and requested me to assist him to undress. I did so. He then said, " That will do," and with a pleasant REMINISCENCES. 155 "• good night," lie lay down to his rest. In the morning we were soon on our way to his home-, a near route was directed by him, which facilitated the journey. We arrived. I assisted him out of the carriage, and he lay down to rest. I had a brief conversation with his aged lady and family, and it being necessary for me to go on, I thought I would leave and not disturb him. I, however, went softly to the door of his chamber, and to his bed ; when, to my surprise, he turned quickly over^ and fixing his beaming, benevolent face full upon mine, said, " Well, are you going?" and with a bless- ing and farewell upon his lips, we parted, to meet no more on earth. C. CADDY. Lwia, Ohio, February 28, 1860. Some time after the death of Mr. Dobbins, the writer, by request, delivered a funeral dis- course on his death, near the old homestead, in a grove contiguous to the Old Union Chapel. The day was rather favorable, and as the appointment had been made and published in the papers weeks belbre, as might have been expected, there was a very large audience pre- sent. There was the aged widow, relict of the deceased ; there were his children, two sons and 156 LIFE OF REV. ROBKRT DOBBINS. a daughter ; there were old settlers who had sat under theXministrj of Mr. Dobbins long years before, and who had shared with him the toils and trials of neighborhood life;, there were heads of families who had sat under his ministry when tfhey were children; there were young people, with whom the name of Mr. Dobbins had been a household word from the days of their infancy. This great congrega- tion gathered together, was an evidence that the deceased lived not only in the memory, but also in the affections of the people. TRUTHFULNESS OF OUR NARRATIVE. 157 CHAPTER. Truthfulness of our Narrative — Mr. Dobbins did not profess to be an Educated Man — He was a Diligent Student — An Able Defender of the Christian Scriptures against the Attacks of Infidelity — Possessed an Analytical Mind — Instructive in Private Conversation — Plain and simple in the Pulpit — Mental Independence — Social Character — His House a House of Prayer — He was the Young Preacher's Friend — ■ Manner in the Pulpit— Never played the Orator — Made no preten- sions to an ornate style — Logic, rather than Rhetoric, his forte — Faith- ful in reproving Sin from the Pulpit — Personal Appearance — Mrs. Dobbins — Conclusion. WE have now presented tlie reader with such facts and incidents in the life of Mr. Dobbins as we are able to command. The substantial biographical facts incorporated with this volume, as already intimated in the Pre- face, were obtained from him several years prior to his death ; and the circumstances and incidents in connection with his latter days, sickness, and death, from reliable friends ; and a few other incidents were such as came under the writer's observation. We have traced the narrative through as well as we were able, and it may not be inap- propriate here to give the reader a sketch of the leading characteristics of our departed father and friend. Mr. Dobbins did not profess to be 168 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. an educated man. The unfa,vorable circum- stances with which he was surrounded, as already intimated, prevented this. Still he was a diligent student through life, and applied himself to the acquisition of that kind of know- ledge which the pulpit especially demanded. Being at one period of his life inclined to skep- ticism, he felt it his duty, after his conversion, to prepare himself to defend the Christian scrip- tures from the vile assaults of skeptical philoso- phers. Hence, he availed himself of all the facili- ties at command to enable him to stand in the breach in defence of the Christian's hope. He gathered up all the volumes at command writ- ten against Christianity, and by his astute and logical ability unveiled the sophistries of the votaries of a false philosophy, and exposed the nakedness of the ground. He possessed an analytical mind ; this, perhaps, was his lead- ing mental characteristic ; with him it was per- fectly natural to analyze and combine, even in conversation. A visitor could not be long with this aged man, without feeling that he was in the pres- ence of a mental power of no ordinary grade. His first introduction to a stranger, and plain, simple words of welcome, would not indicate anything extraordinary ; but during an even- TRAITS OF MIND AND CHARACTER. 159 ing's interview, gems of mental beauty wonld shine out, so that the listener could not fail to see the point, and feel the power of his analyti- cal expositions. In the pulpit, and in social converse, he did not employ words beyond the comprehension of common minds. There was no effort at display, but in all his communica- tions he employed plain Anglo-Saxon words. His great object was to impart instruction to those who desired to be taught ; his communi- cations were, therefore, plain, conclusive and strong. The least defect in an argument would he detected at once, for his searching mind would see through, it in all its relations, and a defect, if any, would be immediately pointed out. Simplicity and strength were elements hap- pily combined in his mental nature — elements which do not always exist in the same mind. A mind may be simple and feeble, or strong and abstruse; the first, if in possession of other redeeming elements, may be of great service to mankind ; the latter may be of value to a high grade of intellect : but the man in whom sim- plicity and strength are happily combined, can- not fail of being useful to all. It would be folly for us to claim for Mr. Dobbins thorough- ness in every department of knowledge. He, 160 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS, like other men, had his specialities, and these, for the most part, occupied his attention through life. The great attributes of the Deity was a field in which he loved to ruminate, and in the department of moral philosophy, in its various relations and details, he was at home. Mental Independence. — It would naturally be inferred from what we have said, that he pos- sessed an independent mind ; not that dogmatic adherence to opinion, right or wrong, which too often palms itself upon the public as being the result of an independent spirit. He who stubbornly adheres to a position in the presence of evidence directly to the contrary, furnishes unmistakable evidence oi folly ; and he who is controlled in his actions by the dictations of the many or few, without a proper exercise of his own intellectual powers, furnishes equally as strong an evidence of cowardice. Mr. Dobbins had a great respect for reputa- ble authorities, but did not receive their com- munications implicitly, without examination; but in every matter of importance he brought the sayings of others to the logical tests of his own mind. Always open to conviction, and ever disposed to listen with respectful attention to the arguments and sentiments of others, he was, at the same time, unwilling to relinquish a SOCIAL CHARACTER. 161 position wliich was tlie result of a thorough investigation, without reasonable evidence to the contrary. His self-possession never forsook him in social debate, and while his opponent might be unduly excited, he was the same calm, dispas- sionate, deliberate reasoner. In his social char- acter, he rendered himself interesting to all with whom he associated. Easy in his manners, every one felt at home in his presence. In the presence of his junior brethren, he would place himself in the attitude of a learner, asking questions in a familiar way, thus bring- ing them out into the field of pleasant debate, and while apparently learning from them, he was the real instructor. This course could not fail to secure the love and friendship of his brethren. Nearly twenty years ago, the writer found himself at the house of Mr. Dobbins for the first time. A great freshet had come, and the banks of the stream near by were overflowed, and the waters covered the lowlands for a great distance; and as a result, the writer was com- pelled to remain several days. It fell to the lot of the wayfarer to lead the family devotions, morning and evening, for several days ; finally, he ventured to ask his kind host to lead the devotions. He replied in a pleasant way, " 0, 11 162 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. no ! You are on my hands. I must board you, and you must do the praying." His house was a house of prayer. Morning and evening the voice of prayer ascended from that family altar. His commanding presence and words of counsel and consistent life in the midst of his household, was a sufficient com- ment upon the value and power of our holy religion. He was the young preacher'' s friend. There are ministers now among us who can bear tes- timony to this truth. He was ever ready to take the inexperienced youth by the hand, and give him words of advice and encouragem.ent ; at his house he found a home, and when there once, he desired to go again. It was a sort of theological school, where he might learn import- ant lessons, and be better prepared for his work. He knew how to lead the wayward and encour- age the diffident ; and Vv^hatever might be the deficiencies of the youthful divine, he always detected the good qualities, and these were made the subject of remark in the presence of othei:s. On a certain occasion, however, he was so unfortunate as to give some offence to certain unmarried preachers — members of the same Conference. It was in this wise. At an Annual Conference in Cincinnati many years MANNER IN THE PULPIT. 163 ago, the subject of ministerial efficiency, was, in some way, made a subject of remark. Our venerable friend Dobbins made a speech, and in the course of his remarks,, had occasion to say, that in his opinion married ministers were, in the general, more useful than single ones. Now there were certain old bachelors, members of the Conference present, and they took it in high dudgeon to think they should be depreci- ated simply because they had no wives. They rose and made some defence, and among other things, said, "According to the logic of the venerable brother, that to be the most efficient and useful in the church of God as ministers, it wonld be necessary for them to go and get married." These good brethren appear to have remem- bered the old motto, " A word to the wise is sufficient," and they did go and get married, and so far as I can learn, have been very happy in the new relation. Manner in the Puljpit. — I infer from his man- ner and appearance in the pulpit in his declining years, that in the days of his power he stood erect and firm. His petitions at the Throne of Grace were short, direct and. impressive. His gestures were few and generally appropriate. His exordium was brief, and led him directly to 164 LIFE OF KEV. ROBERT DOBBINS. the subject in hand. The strong lines of his face, expressive eyes, and unassumed gravity of countenance, indicated to the hearer that he felt that he was an ambassador of heaven, s.peaking to dying men. In the beginning of his discourse there was a slight tremulousness of voice that arrested atten- tion and awakened emotion. His sermon con- sisted of alternate exposition and application. He never played the orator. His sermons were almost entirely destitute of what would be called the rhetorical element. He had very little faith in a merely beautiful style; hence finely wrought figures were seldom, if ever, an element in his discourses. He had no objection to an ornate style when happily blended with solid Gospel truth. He could see the diamond in its bed of sand, and admire it. He could see the beautiful tints of the rainbow revealing themselves through the sunshine and the shower, and admire the beau- tiful blending of the rainbow colors with the prismatic drops of crystalline beauty descend- ing gently through the golden beams of the setting sun. He could see the snow-white blossom crowning the embryo fruit, and shad- ing and sheltering it with its virgin leaves. He could see the beautiful rose bending and HE REASONED WITH MEN. 165 bathing its blushing bead in the early sun-light of the new-born day. He could see through all nature, beauty and usefulness happily combined, and was prepared to admire it all. But when' he saw a professed ambassador of Christ ascend the pulpit, and furnish a practical evidence that he was "in fancy ripe, in reason rotten," he turned away in silent sorrow, and felt inclined to weep over human folly. He felt that his mission was to " reason with men out of the scriptures." It is said that when "Paul reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and a judgment to come, Felix trembled ; " so when the hero of this narrative buckled on the Gospel armor, the hearer, not unfrequently, felt that the Gospel was both the wisdom and power of God. We may say further, in this connection, that he was not a time-serving preacher. He felt it a duty to expose sin wherever he found it, whether in high or low places. He did not stop to think whether it would be palatable or not ; it was enough for him to know that there were those in his con- gregation living in the indulgence of any par- ticular sin. He then drew an arrow from the Gospel quiver, which would seldom fail of reaching its mark. * He felt that he was a watchman upon Zion's 166 LIFE OF REV ROBERT DOBBINS. walls, and wlicn be saw the sword coming, he felt the importance of giving timely warning. He remembered the words of Jehovah against the unfiiithful watchman. "If tli« watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned ; if the sword come and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity ; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand I " I remember an instance of ministerial fidelity in connection with the subject of these pages, which occurred at a protracted meeting held by the writer. Two old men in the neighbor- hood — both, I believe, members of the church — had so far forgotten their Christian character as to get into a serious quarrel, and manifested a very bitter spirit towards each other. One of them, and perhaps both, were present at the eleven o'clock services Sabbath morning. Mr. Dobbins conducted the services, and I never shall forget the scathing rebuke these men received at the hand of the preacher. The quaint figure employed to illustrate the scene ot two aged men engaged in a quarrel, which nearly resulted in blows, rendered the scene not only ridiculous, but positively mean. It was age re- buking age, and it had, to a considerable extent, its desired effect. It requires a great deal of MINISTERIAL FIDELITY. 167 yisdom to know how and when to reprove and attack a particular form, of sin from the pulpit. Ministers are not always wise in this connec- tion, and an untimely rebuke will probably defeat the end in view. The minister who goes forth to ^' warn sinners to flee from the wrath to come," and is prepared to obey the injunction to be "wise as the serpent," as well as ''harm- less as the dove," is prepared for great useful- ness in the church of God. And the minister who fails to discharge his whole duty, and with- holds any part of the truth for fear of offending popular patrons of the church, and thereby in- directly panders to any of the abominations of the age, acts a pitiable part — is unfaithful to his trust — and will surely bring upon himself the disapprobation of heaven. Personal Appearance. — Mr. Dobbins was about five feet and ten inches in height. He did not appear as tall as this in the latter years of his life, being considerably bowed with age. His head was large, with an ample forehead ; and when in the prime of manhood, he possessed a luxuriant growth of hair, but in age he was con- siderably bald. His eyes were blue and ex- pressive — a prominent nose and large mouth. In his facial expression there was a beautiful blending of affection and firmness, with a con- 168 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. stant tendency to a half-developed smile. Tlis countenance indicated a soul within at perfect peace. He had a well developed body, pre- senting a powerful chest, and in the days of his strong manhood he would have weighed at least two hundred pounds. He never used tobacco in any form, and whatever may have been his vices in the days of his folly, intemperance in the use of ardent spirits was not one of them. His habit of self-control through life, and especially after his conversion to the truth, in all probability contributed greatly to that lon- gevity which he enjoyed upon the earth. We now, for the present, bid adieu to the subject of these pages, bearing constantly in mind the truth that the interim between his exit and ours is short. We will meet again in that far-away land of beauty and bliss, where the sunlight of the Saviour will be undimmed by a shadow, and where all the redeemed will enjoy the freeness and fullness of the " rest that remains for the people of God." The aged relict of Mr. Dobbins still lingers upon the shores of time, and the reader may be intel-ested in a brief sketch of this venerable lady, as she appeared to the writer two years ago. She is now nearly ninety years old. MRS. JANE DOBBINS. 169 After an absence of several years, I called upon this venerable woman, and found her sitting upon the porch, enjoying the gentle breezes of a summer afternoon. She did not recognize me. I remarked, that she had changed x^ry little since our last interview. She replied that, " she did not remember how long it had been since we last met." It was still apparent that she did not know me, and when I gave her my name, she repeated it twice, saying that the name was familiar, and she had heard it certainly before. She failed to recollect me during that evening. She said, "it was very strange that the memory of per- sons would fail them so much." She then engaged in conversation in reference to matters of current interest and of past events, with con- siderable animation and intelligence. This conversation was continued, at intervals, for several hours, while she was entirely unaware of the person with whom she was engaged in conversation. This interview was, to me, pecu- liarly impressive and instructive. This lady had been as a mother to me years before. She is slight in physical structure, w^eighing not more than ninety pounds, and frail in appear- ance, with beautiful black eyes, and alabaster face. Though so delicate and frail in struc- 170 LIFE OF REV. ROBERT DOBBINS. ture and appearance, she is quick in her move- ments, and her apparel arranged witli punctil- ious care. She moves about with fairy-like celerity, with her feet encased in morocco slippers. She glides about unheard, revealing a form so taste- fully arrayed as would form a model for a sculptor. You may see her now as she glides along the porch into the garden. She wanders awhile among the flowers, and finally breaks from a parent stem a choice rose, and returns with it in her hand, humming a tune in a trem- ulous, silvery voice. Taking up the broom and sweeping gently for a few moments with the rose still in her hand, and finally, seated in her rocking chair, she resumes conversation, toying with the beautiful garden treasure, fit emblem of purity and affection. She appears to be per- fectly happy. Now, old associations, to a con- siderable extent, return, and she addresses me by name, and converses familiarly as in other years. When I was about to leave, she asked me when I was coming again, and urged me to come soon and bring Mrs. Caddy with me. What scene on earth more beautiful than old age sanctified by the influences of the Holy Spirit — ripe for the better land. So will this esti- mable woman linger a few more days on earth, and then join her loved ones on the other shore. SKETCHES OF THE LIFE OF Hey. Joab W. Ragan. By C. caddy, MINISTER OF THE METHODIST CHURCH. " He, being dead, yet speaketh.'' — Heb. xi. 4. " To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth." — St. Johw xviii. 37. PEEFACE The practical life of man is a life of great and important issues, — mind operating upon mind in direct antagonism ; each exerting its power for the accomplishment of its own end. Truth and error are opposites — righteousness and sin are in the world, each having its votaries, triumphs and defeats. The success of the latter is the death-knell of peace ; the triumph of the former is the life- spring of hope to the , world. We see, then, two great armies, each contending for the mas- tery ; and the leading minds on the side of error and sin are many, vigilant and wise, and often fearfully successful. The leading agencies in the grand army of the Prince of Peace are nu- merous and strong, and we have faith in the fact that they will yet prove more than a match for their enemies. Are there not, in this con- nection, indications of increasing strength in the Christian world ? Is not the great doctrine of evangelical consolidation, taught by our Sa- viour, being carried out to a greater extent than ever before ? (173) 174 PREFACE. The Saviour prayed that his disciples might be one — even as " Thou, Father, art in me, and I ill thee, that they also may be one in us : that the world may believe that thou hast sent me." St. John xvii. 21. Is not the spirit of this great prayer more fully appreciated now than ever before ? May this spirit of true evangeli- cal progress increase more and more, and in proportion to the development and practical exercise of this spirit will be the power and efficiency of the church of God. We rejoice at the achievements of the cross. We rejoice to know that the Christian mis- sionary has crossed the limpid deep, and found his way to Ceylon's isle and Afric's burning shore. We rejoice to learn that the banner of the cross has been seen floating upon the hill- tops of Syria and the plains of India, and that the song of rejoicing and praise has been heard from the isles of the ocean. We praise the name of our Heavenly Father that the statiis of practical Christianity in our own land is as favorable as it is ; it might have been better, and we pray for its improve- ment. As we look abroad upon the great field of Christian labor, we see the workmen gather- ing sheaves, and as the harvest-time rolls on, we see here and there laborers falling in the PREFACE. 175 midst of their toil, and gliding away to mingle with the unseen on the other shore. But while "the workmen die, the work goes on." We are very liable to forget the fact, that for the present vantage ground we are permit- ted to enjoy as Christian laborers, we are in- debted to Christian instrumentalities that have long since passed away from our midst. O, how many of the good and true whom we delighted to honor have passed away from labor to reward ! Their godly example is embalmed in the memory of those who knew them, and as we stand around their sepulchers and think of the past, we see, in imagination, the motto en- shrined within each soul, rose-wreathed and pure as the spirit that set it there — Virtue and Victory. JoAB W. RagAxN" stood upon the walls of Zion long 3^ears ago. With implements in hand he stood by his peers, " Redeeming the time," feeling that the night would soon come. Neither did he work in vain, for though young in years, he was a master builder, working, not for time only, but, as his zeal and persistency indicated, for eternity. With his armor on and fully equipped, a leader upon the walls, encouraging others by his example, while much remained to be done, 176 PREFACE. ere it was liigli noon the messenger came and beckoned him away; and before his associates are aware, he is missing from the walls, for he has glided out and away to the far-off land where the " weary are at rest." What can we say of this beloved young minister, whose career was so short among us ? What we may record in the following pages will only be a faint lymning of that perfection of character which he was enabled, through grace, to attain. In the fullness of future knowledge, when brought into intimate associa- tion with loved ones departed, scenes which transpired here, many of which we may never know on earth, will shine out amid the beauty and glory of the future time. C. CADDY. May, 1868. SKETCHES OF THE LIFE OP EEY. JOAB W. EAGAN. CHAPTER I. Parentage— Childhood— Surroundings— Reared by Pious Parents— Re- moval of his Father and Family to Beaver county, Pennsylvania, in 1806 — Evinces a strong desire for the acquisition of knowledge — Determination to excel — A pleasure to see others make an effort in the Path of Improvement. JOAB W. RAG- AN was born in Westmore- land county, Pennsylvania, February 14, 1802. He was the third son of Zachariah and Mary Ragan. The first four years of his life were spent at the home of his birth, and it was here where the embryo mind first began to open to the beauties of nature. The surroundings of infancy and early child- hood have more to do in moulding the gradu- ally unfolding spirit than many are aware. The variegated scenery of nature, incident to the several seasons of the year, obtrude them- Bftlves upon the eye of the baby worshiper, and 12 (177) 1 i 8 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. awaken a thousand thoughts of wonder and astonishment. Spring, with its early buds and birds, — one revealing their beauty to the busy eye, and the other greeting the rosy morn with tlieir early songs, have charms for childhood. Summer, with its full-blown blossoms scat- tered with a liberal hand around the home of their birth, looking like manna from the sky, and the waving grain fields bending in graceful undulations to the gentle touches of the summer breeze, and the tasseled corn standing proudly up in the lowlands like an army of giants, each one bearing an ear, its only armor, sheathed within a casement of overlapped husks, and crowned with a tassel of crimson and white, spun by the sunshine and the shower, and nourished by the dew drops in the season of drought — all have their lessons of love for the developing spirit of the little boy. Autumn, with its ripened fruits and red leaves tinged with a golden hue, obeying the summons of a premature frost, falling and float- ing in the air, until they find their final rest near the parent that gave them birth, and the strange beauty of an Indian Summer's sun, cast- ing a mellow grandeur upon earth's beautiful scenes, are objects of childish interest to the little immortal. SURROUNDINGS. 179 Winter, witli its winds and storms, and its icy coat of mail, sealing up the circuitous stream by the mill with a glassy lock of blended crystals, where the boys, — Ah! and the girls — may glide like fairies about, perform ing grotesque gyrations and wonderful evolu tions, which astonish even the old folks to see — and the trembling snow-flakes of crystalline beauty, retaining their form until rudely com- pressed, and then subserving a wise and benevo- lent end, in shieldinor and sheltering^ the winter grain, and forming a highway of velvet smooth- ness, where the sleigh, laden with merry inmates, would glide noiselessly along, were it not for " The ringing of the bells;"— — These all have their influences in forming the young spirit in harmony with the Divine model. Such were the surroundings of yoang Ragan during his incipient life, and his parents, like Zachariah and Elizabeth of old, ''were both righteous before God," and humbly striving to '' walk in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord." Consequently, every effort was made to train up their infant son in " the way he should go," and when precept and example, in the home of early childhood, are responsive 180 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. to the teachings of Nature, may it not be ex- pected that the inquiring spirit will be led readily up "through nature to nature's God?" So we believe. If we may judge of the precocity of his mind in his childhood days, and from the wonderful activities of his spirit in the days of his strong manhood, we infer that the early life lessons received contributed largely to give him per- manency of Christian character in after years. In 1806, his father and family removed to Beaver county, Pennsylvania, and settled on a farm in little Beaver Township, where young Eagan was reared. In early life he evinced a strong desire for the acquisition of knowledge and literary distinction, and in this connection was probably regarded as an aspiring youth. He was not content to be behind his fellows, but desired to be, not only a peer among them, but, if possible, to outstrip them all. Who ever became distinguished in the world of letters or art without a desire to excel ? Coupled with the desire to which we have referred was another, which is heaven-like. It was a source of great pleasure to him to see others climb the hill of science. There was, to him something noble in effort, and if others DETEEMINED TO EXCEL. 181 could leave him behind in the race, he would not complain, but applaud them the more. Envy had no place in his nature. It was his pleasure to see others rise, and he was deter- mined to rise himself. This element in his nature endeared him to all his associates. It is recorded by one who knew him well, " that he was possessed of an amiable and affectionate disposition, and was much beloved and esteemed by his associates, and the companions of his youth." Although he possessed so strong a desire for knowledge, and a disposition to reach a high position in the world of letters, his opportuni- ties were very limited. The country was sparsely settled, and institutions for mental culture were not at command. In the days of his youth, the great book of nature lay open before him, and with avidity he seized upon its facts, and treasured them up, and in addition to this, he availed himself of all the collateral aids within reach, and with this two-fold ad- vantage (as limited as it would now appear) he was determined to urge his way onward to distinction. It is said by one who stood by him in the days of his budding manhood, **that in early life, under the instruction of 182 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. parents who taught him both by precept and example, the important lessons of morality and religion, his mind was impressed with a con- viction of the truth of the Christian system, and the necessity of a change of heart." CONVERSION. 183 CHAPTER 11. Determiiiation to be a Christian — Conversion — Thoughts of the Minis- try — Incident — Preparation for the Ministry — Keceived into tlie Traveling Connection of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and ap- pointed to Brunswick Circuit — Appointed to Mansfield Circuit — Failure of Health — Ordained Deacon — Retires to Wooster — Engaged in the Study of the Hebrew and Greek Languages — Ordained Elder and appointed to Sandusky Circuit. MR. RAG AN passed through the days of his early youth without yielding to the convictions of his mind. Finally, on the 24th day of June, 1823, in the twenty-first year of his age, he acceded to the importunities of the Divine Spirit, and became a Christian. This interesting event was the result, under God, of the prayers and entreaties of a younger brother, who had recently been converted through the instrumentality of that memorable man of God, Rev. William Swayze, who lived to a good old age, a witness for Christ, and for the genuine- ness of camp-meeting conversions. Mr. Ragan appears to have been called to the work of the ministry from the moment of his conversion. As soon as he obtained the witness of the Spirit, the words of the Apostle came forcibly to his mind — " Wo is me, if I preach not the Gospel." 184 KEV. JOAB W. RAGAN. During tbc incipient stage of his Cliristian experience, there were many instances of success in his efforts to win sopls to Christ, one of which may be related. A few days subsequent to his conversion, a prayer-meeting was held in his neighborhood under the direction of the elders of the Presbyterian Church in that place, and Mr. Kagan was induced to attend. At the close of the services, during which nothing extraordinary occurred, he politely re- quested the privilege of stating to his young friends his late religious experience. This privilege was cordially granted, and he pro- ceeded to tell them what the Lord had done for his soul. Having so recently received the baptism of the Spirit, with a heart all aglow with the inspiration of Heaven and a soul full of tenderness and love, he pointed the sinner to Jesus, who had done so much for him. His address, full of Divine pathos and Christian zeal, moved all hearts, and at the close, as if moved by a divine impulse, in true old-fash- ioned Methodistic style, he invited seekers of religion to come forward to the altar of prayer. Some ten or twelve persons came to the altar, and the people were baptized with the Spirit's blessing, and a prayer- meeting commenced in THE YOUNG EVANGELIST. 185 earnest around that altar. There were the humble layman, and the steadfast elders, and the young evangelist working together around that altar, while a cloud of glory rested upon all, and the good news went up from that con- secrated spot that sinners were returning to God. Several who came to the altar that even- ing, were enabled to yield to the Spirit's call, and rejoiced in a sin-pardoning God. This was the beginning of a great outpouring of the Spirit upon the people in that place. A revival of religion thus begun continued to extend until the community around were blessed with the visitations of grace, and about two hundred persons were enlisted in the army of Emanuel, — the most of whom united with the Presby- terian church. From this period, Mr. Eagan devoted his attention assiduously to a preparation for the work of the ministry, and in a comparatively short time was regularly in the itinerant field. In 1824, he was received on probation by the Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and appointed to Brunswick Circuit. While on this circuit, he was both acceptable and useful. The second year of his ministerial probation was spent on Mansfield Circuit, where he gave 186 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. unmistakable indications of deep interest, and as an evidence that he was called of God to the work in which he was engaged, God gave him souls as seals to his ministry. His labors were so abundant during these two years, that his health partially gave wav, and although he attended the succeeding An- nual Conference, and was ordained Deacon in the church of God, he was compelled to request a brief respite from active toil in the vineyard. His request being granted, he retired to Woos- ter, Ohio, where he remained two years. While here, he was not idle, but prosecuted his long- cherished desire of obtaining a knowledge of the Hebrew and Greek languages. He now bent his energies to this work, and notwith- standing his comparative physical inability, he was not permitted to be idle, but filled the pulpit regularly on Sabbath days during his sojourn in Wooster. At the expiration of two years' residence here, his health being some- what recruited, he resumed his standing in the traveling connection, was ordained Elder, and appointed to Sandusky Circuit. We take the liberty of quoting a paragraph from a letter written by one who knew him well at this period, and was fully advised of his minis- terial status. "His labors were this year greatly LETTER. 187 blessed in the awakening and conversion of sinners. Never was a young man more be- loved ; nor do we think it extravagant to say, that there never was a young man of more ministerial popularity in the Sandusky coun- try." 188 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. CHAPTER III. Reform Movements — Appointed to Mad River Circuit — Letter to his Presiding Elder — Preaching in the vicinity of Pittsburgh — Received into the Ohio Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church, and appointed to Louisville, Kentucky — Marriage — Appointed to Zanes- ville, Ohio — Appointed to Cambridge Circuit — Popularity of his Min- istry — Interesting scenes connected with his last illness — His Death — Funeral — Conference Resolutions — Remarks. AT the Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, which was held in Lancaster, Ohio, September, 1830, the subject of ecclesiastical reform had excited con- siderable interest among the members of that body. Mr. Ragan's convictions of duty led him to sympathize with the reform movement, and he was not unduly reticent in regard to his honest convictions. As a result, he was singled out by the authorities of the church as being a disturber of the peace of Zion. His brother, Rev. Z. Ragan, who had retired from the Methodist Episcopal Church a year previous, and had united with the new organi- zation, made it convenient, while on his way from Cincinnati to Pittsburgh to visit the Lan- caster Conference, where he found his brother APPOINTED TO MAD RIVER CIRCUIT. 189 Joab in trouble. Various frivolous objections were made to him by leading members of the Conference. He was objected to by one minis- ter on account of his apparel ; he was too much of a dandy, he dressed too fine. Another said that he was becoming too popular, and must be checked. Applications were made for his ser- vices from Sandusky City, Chillicothe, and other popular places ; but no ! the authorities of the church thought it best to send him as an assist- ant preacher on the Mad River Circuit, and it was so ordained. He went to the circuit, and after remaining about two months, during which time he sur- veyed the whole ground, and in view of his duty to man and his responsibility to God, he concluded to retire from the Methodist Episco- pal Church, and identify himself v/ith the new enterprise. He accordingly wrote a letter to his Presiding Elder announcing his determina- tion to retire from the Methodist Episcopal Church, and become a member and minister of the Methodist Protestant Church. That the motives and spirit by which he was actuated in this change may be seen, we reproduce his letter written to his Presiding Elder. It was as follows : 190 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. Pittsburgh, January 3, 1830, To Rev. John F. Wright, P. E. Dear Brother — Finding it absolutely out of my power to return to my circuit by the ap- pointed time, and now having come to the final conclusion to discontinue my labors in the Methodist Episcopal Church, it becomes neces- sary that you should be informed of my inten- tions, in order that my place may be supplied by another. On the subject of reform I always had my own views and feelings, but purposely refrained from being active on either side of the great question in controversy. I have, however, since I arrived in this city, seen the Constitu- tion formed by the late Convention in Balti- more. That instrument meets my entire appro- bation. I have with great care examined its principles, and believe them to be founded in truth and righteousness. As an honest man, I feel myself bound to follow the clearest convic- tions of my own mind on this subject, and of course shall, in future, give what talents and influence I may be possessed of, to build up the cause of God in the Methodist Protestant Church. I do not consider myself pledged to remain in the Methodist Episcopal Church until the next Conference. Indeed I could not, LETTER TO HIS PRESIDING ELDER. 191 unless that Conference were equally pledged to keep far away every circumstance and consid- eration which might make it necessary for me to secede. Besides, there is no specified time when it would be more proper than at any other for a person to leave the Methodist Epis- copal Church. I therefore feel myself at per- fect liberty in this matter, more especially as it will be an easy matter for you to have my place supplied. To give my entire approbation to reform, as presented to the community in the Constitution of the Methodist Protestant Church, and still to remain in the old ranks, helping to build up a system which I hold to be illiberal and oppres- sive in its character, and thus, too, to help to crush reform in every possible way in my power, would be inconsistent and dishonorable, in my view of the matter; and I feel bound in conscience not to do so. I have many friends in the old church, whom I love as my own soul. I have no antipathy against a single individual in that community. In seceding, I am to be contemplated as following my clearest views of truth and righteousness. Very affec- tionately your brother in Christ, JOAB W. RAGAN. 192 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN". The mind of Mr. Ragan appears to have been very mucli agitated at the Lancaster Confer- ence. There was a great struggle within him between dutTj and affection. His better judg- ment led him to sympathize with the reform movement, for it appeared to him just and right that the laity should be permitted to 'participate in the councils of the church. On the other band, he loved the doctrines and means of grace in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and under the influence of that denom- ination he had been religiously educated, and through its instrumentality he had been led to the Saviour. He had also commenced his ministry in that church, and its ministry he loved while he ignored its exclusive policy. He had also many seals to his ministry in the old church, and consequently felt endeared to its membership. It seems to us now, at this distance of time, that it would have been better for him, with his views of ecclesiastical duty, to have declined an appointment altogether at the Lancaster Conference, and to have withdrawn from the church at that time; but, as intimated, his clinging affections for the church he loved were not fully prepared to yield to the stern dictates of duty, and he received another ap- LABORS NEAR PITTSBURGH. 193 pointment. Some time after his appointment to Mad Eiver Circuit, the arguments in favor of a change in his church relations became cumulative. He saw the Constitution formed by the Convention in Baltimore. It " met his entire approbation." This additional consider- ation turned the scale, and he went with the Keformers. From the evidence before us, we infer that at this time his moral and ministerial character stood fair ; his position in the church when he retired from it, and the absence of counter evi- dence on the part of Methodist Episcopal authorities, indicate this. After retiring from the Methodist Episcopal connection, he went to Pittsburgh, where his brother, Kev. Z. Kagan, was associated with Kev. G. Brown in charge of the reformed church, and united with the new organization. During the remainder of this year he spent the time in preaching the gospel in Pittsburgh, Uniontown, and Connellsville, with great zeal and acceptability. A brother who was familiar with his services at this time, thus speaks of him : " The sermons he preached in the places we have named during this year will be re- membered with great profit by the present generation, and through eternity. Many in 194 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. those places will rejoice that tliey ever saw the face, and heard the melodious voice, of Joab W. Ragan." The ensuing Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church was held in Zanesville, Ohio, in the fall of 1831. Mr. Ragan united with this Conference, and was appointed to Louisville, Kentucky. He did not regard this as a successful year in his min- istry. The church was small and much perse- cuted. He may, and probably did, underrate his success in Louisville, as one report made from his station would indicate. In the report to which we refer, mention is made of the second Quarterly Meeting of the station, at which Rev. N. Snethen and Rev. Z. Ragan were present. At this meeting there were a " number of accessions to the church — a glori- ous love feast on Monday night, at which per- sons came forward and united with the new organization — growing congregations," and a note is made of a union prayer-meeting in the city in the following words : " We have in this city a union prayer-meeting, in which the Pres- byterians, the Baptists, and the Methodist Protestants unite, the special object of which is to pray for a revival of religion in this place. O, that God may answer the prayers of his SUCCESS IN ZANESVILLE. 195 people, and that Louisville may be replenislied with the showers of grace from on high !" Still, as we have said, he did not feel satis- fied with the degree of success enjoyed this year. He was so accustomed to see many com- ing to the Saviour, that he could not be con- tented with limited achievements in the Lord's vineyard. During this year he was married to Miss Mary Stull, an amiable young lady of the city of Louisville, who, I believe, still survives him. At the Ohio Annual Conference, in the fall of 1832, he was appointed to Zanesville, Ohio. This appears to have been a year of great pros- perity, and we infer, from the little material at command, that he was a favorite in this city. His praise was in all the churches, and by his suavity of manner, consistent deportment, affec- tionate instructions, and ministerial ability, he drew many hearts to him ; and long will he live in the memory of those who still survive him, who were favored with his society and ser- vices at the period of which we write. The reader will not be displeased if we repro- duce a portion of a letter written by him while in this station. It is dated March 28, 1833, and is in the following words : "We have re- ceived on probation and certificate, in this sta- 196 KEV. JOAB W. RAGAN. tion, since Conference, twenty-eight members, No unusual excitement has induced them to join, but we have good evidence that they have counted the cost, and have united with the church from principle. Our first Quarterly Meeting was held under unfavorable circum- stances. The weather was unpleasant, and we were, through sickness, deprived of help. But Brother Thrap, an unstationed minister, and Mr. Sedgwick, of the Baptist church, aided us ; and on the whole, we had a good meeting. Some time after this, we held a protracted meeting, at which we were favored with the as- sistance of Brothers Thompson, Marshall and Flowers. This was also a very profitable meet- ing. How cheering and encouraging it is, when a minister is placed alone in a station, or on a circuit, to have the aid of his itinerant brethren on such occasions ! "■ We should get into a regular habit of ex- changing services at all our popular meetings. Our second Quarterly Meeting commenced on the 16th of this month. Brothers Brown, Mar- shall, Dalby and Ross, were all with us, together with several unstationed ministers. The weather was fine, the congregations large, and ministers and members all appeared to be in the Spirit from the very commencement of REVIVAL IN ZANESVILLE. 197 tlie meeting; but on Monday evening the Lord favored us with a special manifestation of his Divine Spirit. It was then that the cloud of mercy, which overshadowed us from the begin- ning, burst in blessings on the congregation. " A goodly number, at former periods of the meeting, had repaired to the altar to seek re- ligion ; but now not only the altar, but the seats around, were crowded with those in whom the arrows of the Lord were sticking fast. And thanks to the Most High, they came not to the altar in vain ; for while they were crying for mercy, and the brethren were uniting in prayer at the throne of grace on their behalf, sud- denly the windows of heaven seemed to be opened, and salvation in torrents poured upon us. In less than thirty minutes, there were ten or twelve who professed conversion to God. A more obvious manifestation of Divine power than this, I know not that I ever witnessed in all my life. The work was by no means confined to those who had approached the altar, for sin- ners were weeping all through the congrega- tion. How many professed religion at this meeting I cannot say; it was continued for several days," &c. The thoughts, sentiments, and expressions of gratitude and praise, preserved upon tha 198 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. printed page, are always invested with new and thrilling interest. In tracing the lines, we are brought into closer communion with the departed, and are half inclined to feel that we are with them again. Then the truth rushes upon the mind that long years ago, all that was mortal of these loved ones has been laid away in their graves, while their spirits rest with God. We may see a little of their work, but the workmen are gone. In September, 1833, the Ohio Annual Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church, held its session in Cincin- nati, Ohio, at which time the Conference was divided, and the Pittsburgh Conference set off". Mr. Ragan became a member of the last-named body, and was appointed to Muskingum Cir- cuit (now Cambridge Circuit). He being a constant and laborious student, it is not a matter of surprise that he was still on the ascending scale in efficiency and usefulness. Large assemblies waited on his ministry while on this circuit, and if we may draw infer- ences with any degree of certainty in regard to the future, from past and present facts, we think it quite probable that had he been permitted to reach the period allotted to man by the Psalm-" ist, years would have transpired before he would have attained the zenith of his strength. A SCENE OF MORAL GRANDEUR. 199 His appointment to this cliarge proved to be his last. In Guernsey county, Ohio, there stands a beautiful church, built many years ago, called Ragan Chapel^ in honor of the subject of these sketches. A verbal picture of a scene in connection with his ministry on this circuit, communicated to the writer by Col. E. Hos- kins, may be here written and preserved. Before the erection of Kagan Chapel, to which we have referred, a building in the neighborhood was secured for the purpose of religious worship. Mr. Kagan had an appoint- ment at this place. The time arrived. The morning was somewhat unfavorable. A large congregation had assembled, too large for the house, so that it was necessary for very many to stand in front of the building. Here, then, we have a picture of the scene, the house crowded within, and nearly as many without, and the preacher standing in the doorway. The services are about to commence. See there ! in the distance a messenger comes, bearing the intelligence to the preacher that a member of his family is dangerously ill. But the people have come from afar and near, and he is sent to deliver to them the message of salvation. So with this two-fold weight upon his heart, affliction, perhaps death, at home, and 200 KEV. JOAli W. RAGAN. the worth of souls for whom Christ died pres- sing upon hira, he stood in the passage-way of that old building, and commenced his message to the listening throng. According to my best recollection, his theme was The Judgment Day. Soon after the commencement of the sermon, it began to rain, and finally rained^ heavily ; but such was the interest awakened by the thrilling utterances of the preacher, that the people appeared almost unconscious of the pre- sence of the watery element. There they stood, closely packed together, like statues fixed to the earth, while the preacher, with a voice of unusual melody, compass and power, quickened into a higher life by the inspiration of his theme, drew with a master hand those scenes of terrible, and yet glorious interest, which will transpire in the future. All hearts were in sympathy with the theme, and felt more fully than ever the sacred sublimity of truth as it came from the lips of this Christian preacher. There they stood, listening to the evangelical utterances of the comparatively youthful divine, so soon to go into his chamber to die, whose wrapt spirit, losing sight of all earthly things, soared away into the dim distance, removing the veil that hides things future from the sight, his spirit leaping from scene to scene, as they in LAST ILLNESS. 201 grand succession rise, so that few, if any, in that congregation, but desired to be found with the redeemed in the great day of the Lord. My informant, Mr. Hoskins, a distinguished layman in the church, who, I believe, still lives, to encourage the church by his presence, informed me that he " never would forget the thrilling scenes of that Sabbath clay." This was one of the last sermons of Mr. Eagan. He labored successfully on this circuit until within about four weeks of the fitting of the ensuing Annual Conference. His last sickness began with an attack of bilious fever, which finally assumed the typhoid type. He was an example of patience during his illness, and owing to the nature of his disease, he was occasionally de- ranged, and during the distressing seasons of mental aberration, his theme was Christian per- fection, and it was highly instructive to listen to his illustrations of scripture during these mental wanderings. One instance we mention. He imagined he had an appointment to preach, and the congrreo^ation had assembled. He read the following passage as a text, " This is the way, walk ye in it," and it is said by one who was with him, that " never, in his brightest days, could he have given a clearer view of the path of life than he did on that occasion. An enthu- 202 REV. JOAB W. RAG AN. siast would have believed him to be under the influence of direct and personal inspiration." A few moments before his death, with perfect tranquillity of soul, he turned his attention to his heart-stricken brother, Rev. Z. Ragan, and thus addressed him : " Zachariah, I have hon- estly preached the Gospel of Christ to sinners for a number of years. I have often prayed for the extension of the kingdom of Christ, but now my labors are ended. I have, however, one prayer which I desire to offer, and in which I wish you to join me. Then clasping his emaci- ated hands together, and lifting his bright blue eyes towards heaven, he said in a distinct voice, " Lord Jesus, receive my spirit, and may I dwell for ever in the ocean of unfathoma- ble love." In a few moments after the utter- ance of these memorable words, the redeemed and regenerated spirit of Joab W. Ragan passed away to mingle with eternal scenes. H^ terminated his career on earth in Cam- bridge, Guernsey county, Ohio, on the third day of October, 1834, his age being thirty-two years, seven months and eighteen days. Some time previous to his death, he had requested his brother Zachariah to preach a funeral discourse on the day of his burial ; so on the day suc- ceeding his death, his remains were borne to FUNERAL OBSEQUIES. 203 the Methodist Protestant Church from his late residence, and placed in front of the pulpit. A large concourse of all classes attended the funeral obsequies. It was a time of general and deep sorrow in the village, for one of its bright- est ornaments and most exemplary citizens had been taken away. In accordance with the request of the deceased, his brother delivered a funeral discourse founded upon the following passage : " Jesus wept." — St. John xi. 35. We are not surprised at the selection of the preacher on this afflictive occasion, for these brothers loved each other with all the intensity of true bro- therly aftection. The remains of the deceased minister were conveyed to the village cemetery, there to rest for a little season. I am reminded that subsequently the sainted Rowcliffe fell upon the same battle-field, and his remains repose near those of the incom- parable Ragan. The Pittsburgh Annual Conference, at its next session, passed the following resolution : ^'Resolved, That in the death of Brother Joab W. Pagan, the church has lost one of her most efficient and able ministers, and this Con- ference one of its brightest ornaments.'' Thus passed away from the scenes of earthly toil and conflict a valuable minister of the Lord 20-i REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. Jesus Christ, to intermingle with the redeemed on the other side of the mystic river. And as we stand upon the bank of the stream, and look intently, as though we would follow the freed spirit to its Paradise home upon the other shore, let us pause and reflect upon the great interests involved in a judicious improvement of the time allotted us on earth. The number of our days we may not know, and this consid- eration should give an impetus to action, and lead us to improve the present time, as we know not what a day may bring forth. A prominent subject of regret manifested by Christians generally, especially in the closing hours of life, is the mis-improvement of de- parted years. When the soul is brought to a knowledge of pardoned sin, and with a quick- ened spirit sees the true relation it sustains to its Maker, the terrible sin of procrastination is seen in all its deformity, and the redeemed soul is surprised that the pardoning grace of God was ever bestowed. The newly converted soul is able to see the peril of its previous state, in a light in which it was never seen before. A case of recent occurrence, illustrative of the foregoing remarks, came under the writer's observation. A man of considerable wealth and fine per- REFLECTIONS. 205 sonal presence, wlio exerted a commanding influence in the community in which he lived, was finally brought to see the danger of living without an interest in the Redeemer. His life was, in the general, irreproachable, and his probity as a man not disputed by any. Fifty years of his earthly probation had passed away without a saving interest in the blood of Jesus. Finally, after repeated questionings to learn the truth, his great soul struggling between a desire to go to the Redeemer, and a tendency to unbelief, strengthened by years, he listened to the voice of the good angel, and came, with the meekness of a little child, to the mercy -seat. That great soul was stirred to its utmost depths, and the follies of the past came rushing up from the storehouse of memory, the remembrance of which was almost unendurable. This man of fifty years felt as he had never felt before, and the remembrance of a neglected Saviour for so many years drove him almost to the verge of distraction. His piteous lamenta- tions were sufficient to move the most obdurate heart ; but the Saviour, who is ever ready to hear the prayer of the truly penitent, came to his relief. Such instances show not only the folly of procrastination, but the great sin and danger of 206 REV. JOAB W. RAGAN. neoflectino: the soul's hiorhest interests. And when God, in the fullness of his grace and mercy, has heard the prayer, and come to the relief of the one who has long withstood his grace, how important that that one should redeem the time, and work in the vineyard to the close of the day. The subject of the preced- ing pages was favored with only a few years on earth, but the years of his religious life were replete with activity and toil, and while looking forward to the zenith of life, which was yet in the distance, the Master called him, and he went out and away to be ever with the Lord. In connection with a remembrance of the early death of this beloved minister, we see an appro- priateness in the following beautiful lines in our own church collection : " Far from affliction, toil and care, The happy soul is fled ; The breathless clay shall slumber Among the silent dead. The gospel was his joy and song, . E'en to his latest breath; The truth he had on earth proclaimed Was his support in death. *' Now he resides where Jesus is, Above this dusky sphere ; His soul was ripened for that bliss While yet it sojourned here. CONCLUSION". 207 *' The church's loss we all deplore, And shed the falling tear, Since we shall see his face no more, Till Jesus shall appear. •' But we are hastening to the tomb, 0, may we ready stand ! Then, blessed Lord, receive us home, ■To dwell at thy right hand." A BRIEF BIOGRAPHY OF THE Rev. WILLIAM LYNN DUNLAP, LATE A MINISTER OF THE METHODIST PROTESTANT CHURCH. By C. caddy. MINISTER OP THE METHODIST CHURCH. " I*-* no man despise thy youth ; but be thou an example of the be- lieveiij, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. — I Timothy iv. 12. 13 ^206) BIOGRAPHY OF THE EEV. WILLIAM LYNN DUNLAP. ^ CHAPTER I. Preliminary Observations — Eai'ly Life of Mr. Dunlap — Character of his Mother — Kemoval to the West — Death of his Father — Return of his Mother — Death of his Mother — Learns the Millwright trade with Mr. James Barnes — Amiable Character of Mr. Dunlap — Manifested a talent for Preaching when a Boy. EYERY individual who appears upon the stage of life, and is permitted by Provi- dence to reach the years of maturity, is instru- mental in making an impression, to a greater or less extent, upon the age in which he lives. The impression made may be favorable or unfavorable ; and the far-reaching effects of human conduct, whether good or bad, we may not know in the present world. There is a depth in this thought that we cannot fathom, and we might reasonably suppose that a few moments' reflection upon it would deter the sober thinker from moving another step in the wrong direction. (211) 212 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. "Words and actions are prolific in their eftects. A single word may be the germ of untold miseries. It may go out upon its death- like mission, spreading and extending as it goes from mind to mind, accumulating to itself influence and power; and who will pretend to estimate the fearful aggregate ! Time cannot — eternity will. It is a truism, that " Evil com- munications corrupt good manners." Here we see the heginning^ but we cannot see the end. The counterpart, on the other hand, is one of the most interesting •subjects within the range of human inquiry. Who can estimate the ultimate result of Christian example ? The influence of a ivord, in this connection, may result in blessings to our race, that eternity alone will.be able to unfold. Solomon has said, " That a word fitly spoken is like apples (oranges) of gold, in pictures of silver." This language is highly poetical, it is true, and it is also true that it illustrates a beautiful truth through the medium of exquisitely beautiful and finely-wrought imagery. If we admit the substitution of the fruit named within the parentheses in the above passage, as some of our commentators suppose to be the fruit intended, we will see the appro- priateness of the first figure employed, and PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS. 213 then we may easily imagine an Asiatic page with dignity and grace bearing a filigree bas- ket of open-work, wrought into figures and pictures of silver, laden with golden fruit, and presented to a smiling group of invited guests. Golden fruit in a silver basket — how beauti- ful and appropriate the association, and how beautiful is the voice of love falling upon the ear, and thrilling the heart of the way-side hearer ! " Pictures of silver " — the golden fruit forminor the back-ojround and revealinof its beauty through the silver net- work, reminding us of the soft and gentle power of affection, and the heart-voice distilling words of blended beauty and love. Let us give an example. At one of the old and well-established churches in the city of New York, a daily prayer-meeting was held. Every day, at a certain hour, many were seen wending their way to that old, antiquated building. The voice of prayer and Christian experience which resounded around those old walls relieved many a troubled spirit, and cheered mar^y dis- consolate hearts. Among the daily worshipers was an elderly lady, somewhat bent with age, but with a serene countenance, while the light and beauty of her earlier years would occasion- ally gle im through the withered features of her 214 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. classic face. She had a voice of silvery sweet- ness, rich and mellow, for it was simply an outward expression of an inward baptism. She was standing one morning, for a moment, upon the steps of the church, and as she stood there, a young man was walking leisurely by. She addressed him. "Young man, come in; this is a meeting for prayer." He instinctively turned, he scarcely knew why, and went into the church. An ordinary invitation would not, perhaps, have had the same effect, but this invitation has the appearance of something extraordinary ; true, the words are simple, but there is a strange power in them, a mystic eloquence " that I do not understand. This simple utterance has controlled me, and I am here." The meeting begins, and grows in interest, and the attention of this new listener is arrested, as one and another leads the devotions of that multitude, and an occasional experience is related, revealing the power and glory of the Srospel. We have said that the attention of this young man was arrested, and attention soon assumed the form of deep interest. The arrows of the Lord were darting through that assembly, and this young man was brought under a deep concern for the salvation of his PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS. 215 soul, for one of tlie arrows, in its circuitous course, had found way to his heart. He is wounded, and lies crushed and bruised in spirit. He must receive the salvation of God or perish. God is near. Jesus stands waiting to pour the healing balm into his broken spirit, and 0, what a revolution is wrought in that soul, as he retires, with unwilling feet, from the consecrated place of prayer ! Who is this stranger ? He is a young man whose home is in the distant East, hundreds of miles away, and he could not rest contented until he had sent a letter to his friends, telling them what the Lord had done for his soul. And as soon as practicable, he returned in person, with a soul full of the love of Jesus, visiting his friends and neighbors, and relating the story of the cross. The neighborhood in which he lived was proverbial for its formality and irreligion ; but the flaming torch recently kindled at the altar of grace gave an impetus to all hearts, and the arrows of God from the Gospel quiver were shot in every direction, so that the slain of the Lord were many. ''.Dark- ness may continue for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Soon the dark clouds give place to the brightness of the Saviour's coming, and show- 216 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. ers of salvation descend, and — see ! the crystal current running and rippling, hither and thither, \jntil the precious baptism has done its heavenly work upon many souls all around the consecrated ground. "Apples of gold in bas- kets of silver !" Rich in contrast, rich in mate- rial, rich in beauty, but ! richer by far are the bright scintillations of the Divine glory, blended vi^ith the Spirit's blessing, and coming to the bleeding heart of the poor sinner, chang- ing it from "nature to grace, and from the power of Satan unto God;" and this grand result, instrumentally effected by a " word fitly spoken." We may here observe that a two-fold influ- ence is exerted by man upon his fellows. The first is the result of precept, and conscious example. This we all understand. There is also an impression made by us upon society, which may be called unconscious influ ence: an influence exerted by us, of which we may be unaware, but resulting, more or less from personal character. "We have a beautiful illustration of uncon- scious influence recorded in the twentieth chap ter of John's Gospel. When Simon Peter, and that other disciple whom Jesus loved, heard the intelligence communicated to them by Mary PRELIMINAKY OBSERVATIONS. 217 Magdalene, in reference to the absence of tlie body of our Lord from the sepulcher, they " ran both together : and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepul- cher ; and he, stooping down and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying, yet went he not in." Simon Peter came last, "and went into the sepulcher." Then, went in also that that other disciple which came first to the sepulcher, and he saw and believed." When Peter came up and saw his doubting brother looking into the sepulchre, and went straight in himself after his peculiar manner, he little thought that he was drawing in his brother apostle. And when the unbelief of John began to give way, and he went into the sepulcher after Peter, he little thought that he was attracted by his brother's example. One leads, the other follows, both unconscious of any influence exerted or received. By a law of social contagion, our life and conduct are ever propagating themselves throughout the society and age in which we live. The expres- sion of the eye, an indulgence in amusements of doubtful propriety, a five minutes delay at a place of trade, a word incidentally spoken in the midst of a promiscuous company, — all have 218 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. their influence, and make an impression upon society, either good or bad. We cannot live on earth without exerting an influence, either for or against virtue. Then, that our example may be favorable, let the root of christian virtue grow in our hearts. Let us be Christians in the true sense of the v/ord — " Christ in you the hope of glory." Then, all our conscious activities, and the silent power of unconscious example will be in harmony with heaven's law, and instrumental in the promotion of those principles on which true happiness depends. We cannot claim for any one a faultless cha- racter. In this world of sin, the christian life is a constant warfare; we must fight if we would win the prize. Though we cannot claim perfection for any one here, it is true, at the same time, that some approach the divine model more nearly than others. We are per- mitted occasionally to enjoy the society of a spiritual gem, in whose presence we cannot long remain without feeling a desire to be purer and holier; and these examples might be multiplied if christians would only strive to reach the altitude of christian perfection so clearly indicated in the sacred volume: then the cumulative power of christian influence PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS. 219 would be too great for the povv'ers of darkness, and the achievements of the cross would be a subject of great rejoicing to christians on earth, and ansjels in heaven. There is no lack of external appliances in these latter days. We have model churches in city and viUage, and in nearly all our rural districts, that will reach the ideal of the most fastidious. We have model ministers of liter- ary jfinish and elocutionary power all over the land. We have wealth and wisdom in connec- tion with our temples of religion. We have Sabbath schools critically drilled, and perhaps more efficient in substantial bibli- cal lore than ever before in the history of the American church. And yet, with all these appliances, the power of the church against the prevalent evils of our land is not as great as God has a right to expect, and we on earth profess to desire. It is true, that the present year (1868) appears to be a season of great awakening among the un- converted; and may we not hope that this is the harbinger of a great outpouring of the Spirit upon the nation ? Let us live for it, — then, we may exjject it. The editor of the Methodist Bjecorder, in a recent editorial, after telling us that the principal need of the church is greater spiritu- 220 REV. W. L. DUXLAP. ality, a fuller baptism of the Holy Ghost, — proceeds to say, that " this is the great want of the church. It has become proud and formal, cold and lifeless. We have fine churches, fine choirs, and eloquent sermons. We have the body, but the spirit is wanting. " Many of the churches are filled with dry bones — very dry — and nothing but the breath of the spirit can make them live and stand up a mighty army for God. While we should labor zealously in every department of church enterprise, we should remember, after all, that nothing ' but power from on high ' can crown our labors with success. "Let us not forget that 'to be carnally minded is death ; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.' We may be thus spiritually minded, for we are assured that our ' heavenly Father will give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him.' This may seem a dark picture ; but when we reflect upon the numerous agencies now in the field, contending for the truth, more numerous, perhaps, than ever before, and then, when we see the limited aggressions made upon the hosts of the enemy, we will not be inclined to think the picture overdrawn. Still, we have reason just now to be some- what encouraged, as intimated on a previous PRELIMINARY OBSERVATIONS. 221 page. Let the christian agencies now in the field, be awake, and keep awake, and let the number be multiplied, and the church of Christ luill prosper. We have had examples — bright examples of christian purity and power in the past, and also in the present, and among these examples we propose to hold up one, who, if not faultless, approached as near the divine model, perhaps, as any we might select. William L. Dunlap was the first born of Joseph and Elizabeth Dunlap, and first saw the light in Fayette county, Pennsylvania, near the far-famed Bedstone waters. May 6, 1813. Here the childhood days of William were passed, and as we know but little in connection with his incipient life, we will, of course, say but little. We are assured, however, by one who knew, that his mother was a woman of very exemplary character, a member of the Presbyterian church, and ardently devoted to the interests of religion. She is spoken of as a woman of marked amiability. This distinguishing characteristic shone out with more than ordinary luster, so that she was an object of admiration by all who knew her. She was a true and faithful friend, and loved truth for its own sake. She was a christian, because she felt it a duty to be one ; 222 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. her religion, therefore, was not a religion of impulse, but of principle. Under the early instruction of such a mother, we may well imagine that in reason's early dawn, the mind of William was directed to the Father and fountain of true happiness, and that he learned early to trust in the Redeemer and Saviour of men. The family ultimately removed to the West, and settled near the Miami river, but in what particular locality we are not advised. Some time after this removal, the sensitive spirit of young William was called to endure a severe trial. His father was stricken down by disease, and died. We may not know the great thoughts that pervaded the impressible spirit of William, as he looked upon the pale form of his beloved parent, arrayed in the gar- ments of the grave. A death-scene within the sacred precincts of the family band, lingers in the memory of the incipient mind for long years to come. There is a painful interest in the remembrance of the pale face of the dead ; the calm features, the shroud and coffin, the opened grave, all remain with vivid distinctness in the mind of the heart-stricken bereaved. The death of Joseph Dunlap, the stay and staff of the household, left a void in the family that rendered all hearts sad. Mrs. Dunlap was left EARLY LIFE. 223 in a state of widowliood with three children, William, James and Jane. She returned to her old home in Pennsylvania, where she lived ,a number of years, doing all in her power for the welfare of her rising family. It was not her destiny, however, to remain long upon the earth to enjoy the society of her children, dren, whom she tenderly loved. It was soon apparent that fatal disease had commenced its work. The wan and transpa- rent face, bright and earnest eye, and nervous susceptibility, gave unmistakable evidence that death would soon release her from the toils and sorrows of life. And so it was. She died of pulmonary disease, leaving behind her the tes- timony of a Christian example that she had gone to be with the Eedeemer. Her children were left behind to battle alone with the stern realities of life. These children had, comparatively recently, stood by the grave of a departed father, aad now the form of a sainted mother, lifeless and cold*, lies before them, and each soul, sad and lonely, feels as though cut loose from its moor- ings, to float out upon the sea of life to battle with its tempests, unheeded by the busy world. When William arrived at a suitable age to choose a profession for himself, he concluded to 22-i REV. W. L. DUNLAP. learn the mill-wrigbt trade, this being the employment of his father for many years. In the spring of 1829, being then about sixteen years old, he went to Carmichaels, Green county, Pennsylvania, and placed himself under the instructions of Mr. James Barnes. Here he remained five years, and became so much attached to this family, that, in after years, to the end of his life, he called it his home. We have the testimony of Mr. Barnes when we say that during his five years' service his deportment as a youth was almost unpar- alleled for stability and moral rectitude. Yery few members in the church, at his years, exhib- ited as unblemished a life as he did, even before he made a profession of religion. The following quotation is from a letter written by Mr. Barnes : " The five years spent with me in learning nis trade, were passed without the necessity of a reproof for any improper conduct, under any circumstance whatever. He was a very atten- tive reader, and while others of his years were spending their time in play and sin, he occupied his time in storing his mind with useful knowledge. In addition, I may remark that he had the gratification of always leaving a place where he had been employed for a length HIS CONVERSION. 225 of time, witli the good feelings of all with whom he became acquainted; being beloved by all classes of persons with whom he inter- mingled, and was always inquired after with much solicitude." This testimony speaks vol- umes in favor of moral rectitude in connection with the subject of this narrative. He displayed a talent for preaching when a boy, and often, in a chaste manner, would exer- cise in that way, very much to the amusement of his hearers, but always within the bounds of propriety. He would sometimes preach the funeral of animals, and though this might seem irreverent, such was the simplicity and purity of his sentiments, that his boyish harangues were entirely unobjectionable, even to those best qualified to judge. From the best evi- dence before us, it appears that he was con- victed of sin, and brought to see the necessity of salvation, in the fall of 1832, through the instrumentality of Kev. G. Brown. He did not, however, at this time, receive an evidence of pardoned sin. He had a long struggle before he received this great blessing. Some time after his awakening, he had occa- sion to go a part of a day's journey in company with Mr. Barnes and a young man who had recently experienced a change of heart. Mr. 15 226 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. Barnes saw that William was in great trouble on account of his spiritual condition, and took occasion to ride by his side for some distance, and found that he had difficulty in entering the kingdom; and after a careful and critical in- quiry into his case, found him hedged up, unable to proceed any farther. Mr. Barnes gave him such instruction as he thought his case required, believing that he only needed faith to claim the promise, and then left him to reflect, and make another effort, which he did ; and the Saviour accepted and blessed him on the road. This happy intelligence he communicated to his young companion after he had retired to bed. He was now enabled to rejoice in a sin- pardoning God, and to say with a heart over- flowing with joy, ''Whereas I was blind, I now see." After this glorious change had taken place in his soul, he was not in haste to unite with the church, but spent several months in the examination of creeds and confessions of faith, and comparing them with the Scriptures. He appeared to have a desire to unite with the Presbyterian church, the church to which his loved mother belonged in her life-time, if he could reconcile its doctrines with his convic- tions of truth. After a careful examination HIS CONVERSION. 2^7 of the doctrines and usages of the various churches, he came to the determination to unite with the Methodist Protestant church. Finally, he attended a meeting conducted by Eev. Mr. Dunlevey, of the Methodist Protestant Church, and at the close of his sermon, an invi- tation being given for persons to unite with the church, he came forward and presented himself as a candidate for membership, and was re- ceived as a probationer, with the confidence of his friends that he would be a valuable acquisi- tion to the cause of Christ. After havino^ taken these important steps as a Christian soldier, he was in due time received into the church in full connection. 228 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. CHAPTER II. Mental Conflicts— Preparation for the Ministry— Enters Green Acad- emy — Failure of Health — Licensed to Preach — Recommended to the Pittsburgh Annual Conference — Assistant on Washington Circuit — Peculiar Mental Difficulty — Returns Home greatly discouraged- Mental Condicts. WE now see this young man, of whom we write, fully identified with the people of God, and on his way to the promised rest. His trials did not end here. He was called to endure a severe mental struggle. His mind was troubled on account of the strong impres- sion upon bis soul that he ought to become a minister of Jesus Christ. This impression, in connection with a sense of personal unfitness for the w^ork, was a source of great mental suffering. Finally, after as great a conflict of mind, perhaps, as any young man ever passed through, he ventured to mention the subject of his impressions to his pastor, Rev. Mr. Dunle- vey, a minister ever ready to assist and sympa- thize with those in trouble. Before leaving the circuit, Mr. Dunlevey communicated the information he had received PREPAEATION FOR THE MINISTRY. 229 to Mr. Barnes, the old preceptor and confident of Mr. Dunlap. The young man was encour- aged, and after making the subject of his men- tal conflict a matter of earnest prayer, and con- sultation with judicious friends, he resolved so far to regard the voice of the Spirit as to make an effort to improve his education, so as to be better qualified to enter upon the great work to which God had evidently called him. He accordingly arranged his temporalities, and entered Green Academy, an institution of some prominence at that day. When once within the walls of that institution, he bent all his energies to the work of mental improve- ment. His mind was now fixed. He deter- mined that " Whatsoever his hand found to do, he would do it with his might." The great work of the ministry was before him, and he must be a workman, that ''need not be ashamed." His ardent desire for knowledge controlled his judgment. He overworked his mind, and suffered materially thereby, so that it became necessary for him to desist for awhile, to recuperate his energies, and he then re- turned to his mental toils within the walls of the Academy. It is highly probable that the severity of application to study at this period, resulted in that peculiar mental diffi- 230 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. culty, under wliicli he labored in after years, and in all probability, in his premature death. In November, 1833, he received license to exhort on Monongahela Circuit, and on the 23d of August, 1834, he was licensed to preach the Gospel, ahd was recommended to the Pittsburgh Annual Conference of the Methodist Protestant Church, as a suitable person for the itinerant ministry. In the following September he was appointed by the stationing authority of the Pittsburgh Conference as assistant to Rev. Wm. Colledo^e on Washincrton Circuit. We have already alluded to an embarrassing dif&culty under which he labored during the early part of his ministry. He was overtaken by this difficulty while on Washington Circuit. AVhen attending to one of his appointments, he was pursuing his subject in the pulpit, appa- rently without the least sign of embarrasment, when suddenly a cloud fell upon his under- standing and memory, so that he w^as utterly unable to proceed any further. This was a source of deep sorrow to his friends, and a crushing affliction to the young preacher. It is a matter of regret that he did not receive that encouragement from his superintendent that his afflictive condition demanded, for he was advised by Mr. Colledge to retire from the DIFFICULTIES. 231 circuit; and some of the officiary of the circuit concurring in tliis advice, he had no alternative but to do so. It is probable that the superin- tendent and the brethren who concurred in the arrangement to send the young man home, were governed by their convictions' of pro- priety ; but little did they think that by their imprudence they were driving almost to dis- traction one of the most valuable young men of the age. The sensations of young Dunlap on this occasion were almost beyond endur- ance, for he was naturally of an extremely sensitive construction. So, after remaining on the circuit about two months, he returned home with a sad heart. From the foregoing statement we draw the following inference. Good men are found in the ministry who appear to be utterly disqualified for the exer- cise of that practical sympathy and encourage- ment which the cases of young and inexperi- enced ministers sometimes require. From the position occupied by Mr. Colledge at the time of which we write, and his subsequent career, we infer that he was a man of considerable ministerial ability and moral worth. He was an itinerant minister in the Methodist Protest- ant Church about five years, and then united with the Presbyterian church, and, as far as we 2o2 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. Ivjiow, remained an efficient and useful minister in that churcli until his death, which occurred recently. We have stated that Mr. Danlap returned home from his circuit broken down in spirit, and in addition to his own mental sorrow, he found the family of Mr. Barnes, his old pre- ceptor and friend, all except Mr. Barnes, pros- trated by sickness, and some of them danger- ously ill. When a suitable opportunity oc- curred, he communicated his pungent grief to Mr. Barnes, who tried to encourage him ; but the young preacher reasoned in this way : " If the Lord had called him to preach, he would not hedge up his way." Some time after this, an appointment was made for him in a neigh- boring church, where he succeeded well, and subsequently another appointment was given out for him. He attended and performed the preliminary services, and commenced preach- ing, and while engaged in presenting the truths of the gospel in an animated and interesting manner to his audience, suddenly a cloud came over his intellect, and so completely was he overcome that he was unable to call on any one to close by prayer or otherwise. After the congregation dispersed, he ad- dressed Mr. Barnes in the following manner: MENTAL CONFLICTS. 233 '' I suppose, now you will agree with me, that it is best for me to desist from preaching, as you have witnessed a specimen of my diffi- culty." After spending some weeks at home, he concluded to make an another effort in the vineyard of the Lord. He loved the work, and desired to be engaged in it, and he could not be contented without making another trial. 234: REV. W. L. DUNLAP. CHAPTER III. Receives an Appointment as Assistant to Rev. John Wilson on Mus- kingum Circuit — Reflections — Assistant to Rev. P. T. Laishley on Middletown Circuit — Preaches at a Camp-meeting — Appointed to Cambridge Circuit with Rev. John Burns — Popularity as a Preacher — Rev. Samuel Thompson — Appointed to the Superintendency of Monongahela Circuit with Rev. William Ross as Assistant — Decli- ning Health — An Address to the young people at Shepherd's Meeting- House — Illness — Receives a visit from Rev. Asa Shinn — Affecting Interview between Messrs. Shinn and Dunlap — Prayer in the Death- chamber — Dr. Laidley — The last words of Mr. Dunlap — Quotation — Funeral Sermon by Mr. Shinn — Obituary — Personal Appearance of Mr. Dunlap — Moral Characteristics — Religious Character — Mr. Dun- lap as a Student — Character as a Preacher — Reflections. MR. BARNES, the special friend of Mr. Dunlap, retained an unabated interest in the welfare of liis young friend, and by con- sent of Mr. Dunlap wrote to Rev. Enos Wood- ward, who was President of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference at that time, to learn if there was a vacancy in the ministerial ranks within the bounds of the district. Mr. Woodward wrote an appropriate and courteous reply, soliciting Mr, Dunlap to take an appointment on Muskingum Circuit, under the Superintendency of Rev. John Wilson. He complied, and found himself under the care of an afiectionate and kind-hearted friend, who REFLECTIONS. 235 did every thing in his power to encourage the young brother on his way. As far as we can learn, the difficulty to which we have referred never returned to Mr. Danlap more than once or twice after this period. Important lessons are taught in the preceding history. It is instructive to senior ministers who have young preachers under their care and direction. The development and future effi- ciency of the young minister depend much upon the administrative course of the senior pastor. It is instructive to young ministers. The youthful divine, and all others, should remember that God has given them mental, moral, and physical powers ; and in the legiti- mate use of those powers, they may glorify God in their bodies and spirits, which are his. They should remember, at the same time, that they make an intemperate use of those powers, and thereb}' bring upon themselves disease and premature death. We have no more right to pursue a course of action that will result in the curtailment of our own lives, than we have to inflict an injury upon our neighbors ; and when we are so unfortunate as to do so, we have no right to charge upon the Deity that which is the result of our own imprudence. Life is a valuable possession, and the world 236 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. is much m need of men and women of moral and mental worth ; and it is the duty of every Christian minister and every Christian layman to live as long as he can — to pursue that course which, according to his best judgment, will be the most efficient in the preservation of life. I have known young ministers who were com- pelled to leave their pulpits and libraries and become tillers of the soil to save their lives. On the other hand, some are too idle to study, and have depended upon a little native genius to carry them through life, until the rust of mental inactivity has accumulated upon them, and they were left in old age minus every thing. Beware of extremes. Christianity does not demand suicide at the hands of its votaries, and it is true that laziness is a sin. Wisdom per- sonified is represented as coming to the sons of men in her most attractive form, bearing in her hands two invaluable gifts — Listen! "Length of days is in her right hand ; and in her left, riches and honorJ^ We think it probable that the ardent thirst for knowledge of the subject of this biography, led him to make too great a sacrifice for the accomplishment of his object. It is said that from the time of his appointment as assistant to APPOINTED TO CAMBRIDGE CIRCUIT. 237 Rev. Mr. "Wilson, tie made rapid improvement. At the second session of the Pittsburgh Annual Conference, held in Steubenville, Ohio, Septem- ber, 1835, he was appointed to Middletown Circuit, in connection with. Rev. P. T. Laishley. Mr. Laishley was delighted with his assistant, and did every thing in his power to encourage and help him along. During this year Mr. Dunlap attended a camp-meeting on his native circuit, and preached several sermons, one of which is especially remembered still by the old inhabi- tants of that region. It was founded upon Matt. vii. 14, 15. He made many friends on this circuit, and labored with great acceptabil- ity. In the fall of 1836, he was appointed to Cambridge Circuit, in connection with Rev. John Burns. At this period in his ministry his ability in the pulpit was thought to be con- siderably above mediocrity. There are persons living within the bounds of this circuit who still remember with much interest sermons delivered by this young man. The writer of these sketches had the pleasure of hearing a discourse from him during that year that made an impression that will never be forgotten. It was a quarterly meeting occa- sion, which was held at the Pisgah appoint- 238 REV. W. L. DUN LAP. mcnt. The Superintendent, Eev. Mr. Bums, had to leave on Sabbath morning to attend to a ministerial engagement some miles away. Previous to his departure, arrangements were made for the Sabbath. The meeting was held in a grove near the church, and it fell to the lot of Mr. Dunlap to preach at eleven o'clock, and it was arranged for Eev. Samuel Thompson, an eloquent preacher, to succeed him in another discourse. After the prelimi- nary services, Mr. Dunlap announced the fol- lowing text : " And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way-side begging : and hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. And they told him, Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me." — Luke xviii. 85-43. His youth and comparative inexperi- ence, in connection with the fact that his effort was to be so soon succeeded by a minister of age and eloquence, rendered his position some- what embarrassing. He felt this, and com- menced 'by saying, ''That the congregation would excuse his imperfections, and he would promise them something better after awhile." He presented a faithful analysis of the subject, and pointed out the deplorable condition of the SERMON AT A QUARTERLY MEETING. 239 spiritually blind. How dark the picture ! The mind of man was not only dark, but grossly dark. Then the earnestness and persistency of the truly penitent soul! Blind Bartimeus heard that Jesus was passing. He cried, say- ing, '' Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me." But he was rebuked, and informed that he should " hold his peace :" but he cried so much the more, ''Thou son of David, have mercy on me." The silvery tones and plaintive utterances of the preacher brought that great mass of mind in sympathy with the theme. The preacher said " that he desired to im- press upon his audience the great truth that Jesus was then passing by." It was a beautiful autumnal morning, and as the above utterance came from the lips of the preacher, in soft and mellow tones, a gentle breeze fanned the brows of the willing worshipers, and it was not difl&- cult to believe that Jesus was in the passing breeze, to comfort and heal the broken in spirit. Yery often, since then, have I in imagination seen the slight form of the young preacher standing upon the temporary platform in the grove, and heard the words, "Jesus is now passing by," and have felt my hair stir with the gentle touches of the morning breeze, and have felt in my heart, that Jesus was certainly 240 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. there, to bless and comfort the penitent one. At the close of the sermon, after a brief inter- mission. Rev. Samuel Thompson delivered a soul-stirring sermon ; and as the people arose to leave the consecrated ground, they felt that it was good to be there. A certain gentleman in conversation with Mr. Thompson on the evening of that day made the remark, that ''if the life of the young preacher whom they had heard, should be pre- served, he would be one of the great men of the age." Mr. Thompson replied, " Great and small are relative terms ; he is great nowr Such was the judgment of one who was him- self a man of superior ability. While on this circuit, Mr. Dunlap prepared a series of ser- mons on the Parables of our Lord. One of this series it was the privilege of the writer to hear. It was the Parable of the net cast into the sea, and it was a beautiful exposition of the figurative language employed, and a happy application of the important truths taught, all indicating that he was a " workman that need not be ashamed." After the delivery of this sermon we repaired, with a number of friends, to the house of a brother to dine, when a gentleman present made the following playful remark to the young preacher, "Suppose, SICKNESS. 241 BrotTier Dunlap, yoa should get the net so full as to break it, what then?" "Ah!" was the reply, " we preach that the net is so strong that it cannot break." This was a pleasant and profitable year on Cambridge Circuit, aud the young preacher was favored with a super- intendent every way qualified to encourage and advise, and they loved and labored together as brethren in the Lord. In the fall of 1837, the Pittsburgh Confer- ence held its session in Wheeling, Virginia, and the representative from Monongahela Cir- cuit made application for Mr. Dunlap, and he was appointed to the charge of that circuit, with Rev. William Ross as assistant, an agree- able and promising young man. In the early part of the winter, he rode a number of miles to an appointment, through a chilling rain, from which he contracted a severe cold, termina- ating in a fever. He lay at the house of a brother James, near Amity, Washington county, Pennsylvania, where he had every thino: done for his comfort that could be done. After being confined to the house several weeks, he so far recovered as to be able to go home, with strong symptoms of pulmo- nary disease. He remained home until spring, And then took charge of his circuit again. But 16 242 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. it was only for a short time. It became too evident to his friends that his lungs were seri- ously affected. His condition awakened seri- ous thoughts within him, and he reasoned thus: "If the Lord had called him to the work of the ministry, why v«ras it, that when he was pre- pared to some extent to be useful to the church, his health should be taken away." He was not at this time confined to his room, but was able to go among his friends ; and when away he would sometimes preach, notwithstanding the admonitions of his friends and physician to desist. His health gradually declined through the summer and the following winter. His last pulpit effort was at the close of a Quarterly Meeting at Shepherd's meeting-house. This effort was on Monday. He delivered a dis- course to the young people of the neighbor- hood, for he was now upon the circuit on which he was principally reared. He seemed to have a presentiment that this would be his last pub- lic effort, and in his address he reviewed the history of his past intercourse with the youth of the neighborhood for the last ten years. A gentleman who was present and heard this address writes as follows: "He believed that this would be his last warnings— the last he LAST ILLNESS. 243 ever would give the people with whom lie had been acquainted so long. His appeals were the most sublime that ever came under my hearing. The circumstances under which they were given were peculiar, and I have no doubt that the recollection of them will live in eter- nity. '' His deportment through life had been such that all his acquaintances, religious and irre- ligious, had confidence in him ; consequently, he made them feel his eloquent warnings in all their strength and importance. This was some months before his death. I had many interesting con- versations with him during his decline. When he became convinced that his health was beyond the hope of recovery, he became reconciled to the Providence that permitted the failure of it ; and with all that patience and submission which ere peculiar to him, he threw himself into the Divine will with all the confidence of a child, believing that his Father in Heaven knew what was best to do, and would certainly do for him what was for the best. '' During the last year, while his health was declining, he divided his time with his brother- in-law (who was married to his only sister), Jonah K. Wood, and James Barnes, his old preceptor and friend.'* 24-i REV. W. L. DUNLAP. A few days before his death, he made his visit to his brother-in-law's, at Carmichael- tovvn, and at the appointed time, Mr. Barnes sent for him; but he declined going, assigning as a reason that he had been engaged repairing his friend's clock to pass away the time, and was too much fatigued to go that evening. On the same evening Kev. Asa Shinn called at the house of Mr. Barnes for the purpose of spending a few days with the family, and the next morning Messrs. Shinn and Barnes were on their way to Carmichaeltown to see the dying minister. While on the way they met a messenger bearing the tidings that Mr. Dunlap had risen that morning, and dressed himself, apparently as comfortable as usual, but was able to remain up but for a short time. Expectoration had ceased, and he was sinking rapidly. They hastened to see him, and when they entered the chamber, Mr. Dun- lap reached out his hand to Mr. Shinn, and said, ''Father Shinn, I am glad you have come, to help me to pray the Lord to come, and come quickly." Mr. Shinn had often met Mr. Dunlap at the house of Mr. Barnes, and had formed not only a personal acquaintance with him, but a strong love and attachment for him. PKAYER IN THE DEATH-CHAMBER. 245 When Mr. Shinn saw the emaciated form of bis young friend, and the unmistakable eviden- ces of a speedy dissolution, he was deeply moved; so much so that it was some time before he could control himself sufficiently to converse with him. After his mind had become somewhat composed, he read an appro- priate chapter, and commented upon it in a touching manner. He then addressed the Throne of Grace in a very fervent and impressive appeal, the dying man entering fully into the spirit of the petition. What a beautiful scene ! A scene that might challenge the genius of a painter. The sweet-spirited Shinn, one of the brightest lights of the American pulpit, sitting by the side of a dying minister, with an opcD Bible upon his knees, reading from God's Word, words of encouragement, and commenting upon them ! The dying preacher listens to catch the inspii^ed words, and the appropriate exposition of them ; and then the prayer ascending from that sick room — so soon to be the chamber of death — ascending to God in behalf of the youthful pi'ophet! This scene occurred on the morning of the day on which Mr. Dunlap died. It is now high-noon, and it is evident 246 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. to his friends that the "last enemy, which is death," is gaining the victory. Though gradually sinking through the day, he displayed much calmness, answering any question with great composure. A short time before the closing scene, Dr. Laidley, who had administered to trim occasionally, called to see him, and asked him if he still retained his confidence in God. His reply was, "O yes! victory, victory through Jesus." These were his last words. A friend who was present and witnessed this death-scene, thus writes: " On the 23d of May, 1839, before the golden sun had retired to his rest, the spirit of one of the most amiable and exemplary young men of any age or community was called to reap his reward in the midst of usefulness. " At the time of his death he was twenty-six years and seventeen days old. He passed away greatly beloved by all. It would seem strange that the Lord should call so extraordinary a young man from labor, possessed of so great a degree of meekness, and whose life was beyond reproach. He was a man of good natural capacities, and well cultivated mind. I have no doubt that futurity will be required to com- prehend it fully." On the day succeeding the death of Mr. CHARACTERISTICS. 247 Dunlap, Mr. Shinn, tliougli not very favorable to the practice of preaching funeral sermons^ consented to serve on this occasion, and said that " he could, without difficulty, speak favor- ably of the character of the dead." He selected his text from Psalm xxxvii. 37, and in the course of his sermon observed that '' he thought the person whose remains lay before them, came as near the character described by the Psalmist as any young man he ever knew, — his end was almost literally fulfilled in peace." The remains of Mr. Dunlap were deposited in the cemetery at Carmichaeltown, where a suita- ble monument marks the spot. Personal 'presence. — The personal appearance of Mr. Dunlap would not be considered com- manding by lovers of a stately form. *At this distance of time we see him presenting a form not more than five feet, eight inches high, straight, and slightly built, blue eyes, fair com- plexion, and active movement. Moral characteristics. — It was a source of great pleasure to him to see others happy, and he was ever in sympathy with the suffering. He could "weep with those who wept," and " rejoice with those who rejoiced." He believed that God intended every living creature to be happy. It was, therefore, a pleasure to him to 248 REV. W. L. DUNLAP. listen to the songs of the birds, and to witness the gambols of the flocks of the field. Cruelty to animals he regarded as a great sin. Religious character. — This was deep and ear- nest. He was ever seeking higher attainments in th-e divine life. I remember the following •utterance in a society meeting : " When I first gave my heart to the Lord it was my purpose to go on to perfection ; holiness was then my object — holiness is still my object." Hfs reli- gious character gave his naturally amiable disposition a tinge of unearthly beauty, that rendered his presence a power in the pulpit and parlor. As a Student. — He was assiduous, earnest and critical, a lover of books, and a lover of nature. If Hugh Miller could find "sermons in stones," our young student could see in the frame-work of a leaf, the tints of a rose, and in the silver- white drops of the meandering brook, an evi- dence of the wisdom and goodness of God. He could hear the voice of Jehovah in the distant thunder, and see the flashing of his eye in the lightning's glare ; and as he listens in imagina- tion to the strains of music floating out and away upon the evening air from the harp of the Shepherd king, he would turn, at nature's bidding, to listen to the linnet's song, or REV. W. L. DUNLAP. 249 the music of the moaning wind. "We have said that he was a lover of books and studied them well; but the Bible was his text-book, and upon its pages he loved to linger. Some time before his death he expressed a desire that his library be retained upon the circuit on which he died, for the use of the preachers who might be appointed there from time to time. Character as a Preacher. — In this connection every one has his own ideal. Look for a moment at the slight form of Mr. Dunlap in the pulpit. There is nothing uncommon the the reading of the hymn. The intro- ductory prayer is an earnest, unirnpassioned petition at the Throne of Grace. You believe that he is talking to God. When he rises to announce his text, he stands erect, and his manner is entirely free from embarrassment. There is an humble dignity of manner, and a consciousness that he is in the presence of God, and about to address dying men. He reads his text, and all hear it, for his enunciation is remarkably distinct. His plan is simple, and his points clearly stated ; all understand him. He has not a voice of great power, but of unusual compass on account of the distinctive- ness of his utterance. There is a slight trem- 250 CONCLUSION. ulousness in its tones, and a silvery smoothnesg as he glides along under the influence of in- creasing emotion. His words are simple and strong, and his whole performance remarkably chaste. His thoughts are beautifully connected, and there is a regular gradation of thought and emo- tion until he reaches the zenith of his power and then it is impossible to get away from the fascinating charm of his simple eloquence, even if you would. The light reflected from this beautiful mind was not like the lurid glare of the comet, but like the clear light reflected from the evening star, falling with gentle power upon human hearts, awakening in the souls of willing wor- shipers a desire to be more like the Friend and Saviour of the world. Shine on, thou beauti- ful star, in thy home of purity and love, and may the reader and writer of these pages be permitted to meet thee there! Amen! PUBLICATIONS OF J. W. DAUGHADAY & CO., 424 WALNUT ST., PHILADELPHIA, PA. Johnnie Dodge ; or, the Freaks and For- tunes of an Idle Boy. By Dr. CHAS. D. GAEDETTE. 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M., Editor Schoolday Visitor, Author of *' Old Log School House," etc. 12mo., 305 pp. The Round Table, in an advance notice of this work, says : — " ' The Gospel in the Trees,' we understand, is the embodiment of a ^eries of Lectures delivered before the Author's congi-egation at Pittsburgh, and is, we imagine, a presentation of the beauties of Natural Theology.'" Price, post-paid, $1.50. Schoolday Dialogues. A book for the School, the Family, and the Literary Circle. Compiled by ALEXANDER CLARK, A. M., editor of Our School- day Visitor. Fifth revised and improved edition. New Original Dialogues, Tableaux, etc., etc. The most entertaining and in- structive book of the kind ever issued. A valuable addition to the Teacher's School, or Family Library. 12mo., 352 pages. Price, post-paid, $1,50. a) PUBLICATIONS OF J. W. I) AUG HAD AY & CO. The Old Log School House. A Tale of the early Schools of Ohio, Furnitured with Incidents of School Life, Notes of Travel, Poetry, Hints to Teachers and Pu- pils, and Miscellaneous Sketches. By ALEXANDER CLARK, A. M. Handsomely illustrated. 12mo., 288 pages. Price, post- paid, $1.50. Daring and Suffering. A History of the Great Railroad Adventure. One of the most thrill- ing episodes of the War. By Rev. WILLIAM PITTENGER, one of the Adventurers. With an Introduction, by AlexandeA Clark, A. M. Elegantly Illustrated by a Steel Engraved Portrait of the Author, and several spirited Wood cuts. 12mo. Price, post- paid, $1.50. The Yankee Conscript ; or, Eighteen Months in Dixie. By GEORGE ADAMS FISHER. With an Introduction, by Rev. Wm. Dickson. Illustrated with a fine Steel Engraved Portrait of the Author, and several beautiful Wood cuts. 12mo. Price, post paid, $1.25. Beyond the Lines ; or, a Yankee Prisoner Loose in Dixie. By the late Col. J. J. GEER, Assistant Adjutant General upon the Staff of General Buckland. With an Introduc- tion, by Alexander Clark, A. M. Handsomely Illustrated. Price, post paid, $1.50. Republican Methodism. By llev. T. H. COLIIOUER. 186 pp. Price, post paid, $1.00. Bound Volumes of " Our Schoolday Vis- ITOR," for 1867, will be sent, post-paid, for $1.25 per volume, in flexible covers, or $2.00 in cloth. Any of the foregoing named works sent, post-paid, on receipt of price. Liberal discount made to Agents, and to the Trade. J. W. DAUGHADAY & CO., Publ'ishers, ■i.2A Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Fa. (2) pttbIjIcations of .T. W. DATTGHADAT & CO, THE PMIVCE j^]MOjVO JXTTElVILESt OUH SCHOOLBAY VISITOR: One of the Very Best, Cheapest and Handsomest Boys' and Girls' Magazines in the World. Edited by ALEXANDEE CLARK and WILLIAM M. CLARK. The Children are in rhapsodies over it. The grown-up folks are delighted, and the Press everywhere has pronounced it " THE VERY BEST AND CHEAPEST." BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED. i^-GOOD NEW MUSIC IN EVERY NUMBER. -®|l Some of the best and most popular writers in this country contri- bute regularly, among whom are — JACOB ABBOTT, S. G. W. BENJAMIN, ALICE CARET, GEO, S. BURLEIGH, JAMES EARRON HOPE, LUELLA CLARK, MARION DOUGLAS, SOPHIE MAT, GEO. P. ROOT, KARL REDEN, Mrs. 0. H. GILDERSLEEVE, AUGUST BELL, etc. PREMIUMS FOR CLUBS! CABINET ORGANS, for the Home Circle, Church, School Room, or Sabbath School. SEWING MACHINES, for the Family. BOOKS, MUSICAL, MATHEMATICAL AND PHILOSOPHICAL INSTRUMENTS, SILVERWARE, etc., etc. For instance :— ^^PELOUBET'S latest improved five octave CABINET OR- GANS, solid walnut case, the regular retail price of which is $130, will be sent for Fifty Subscribers, at §1 each, and $65 in cash ! ^?g- WHEELER & WILSON'S highest premium SEWING MACHINES, worth $55, will be sent for Fifty Subscribers, at $1 each, and $15 in cash, and many other useful articles in like proportion. T:B:I^:M:s : 1 Copy, one year, - - _ - $1.25 3 Copies, « _ _ - - 3,00 5 Copies, '^ t^ with premium, - 5.00 ^5^ Sample Numbers and full instructions to agents, mailed, post-paid, for 10 cents. [t^ Agents "Wanted at every Town, Post-Offiee, and School in the United States. Address, J. W. DAUGHADAY k CO., Publishers, 424 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa, (3) rUBLICATIOXS OF J. W. DAUGHADAT & CO. NOTICES OF THE PHESS. I^om the New York Independent. ""We can heartily commend Our Schoolday Visitor as ■worthy of patronage. It is attractive in appearance, and has a tempting variety of matter." Fi'07n the Waltham (Mass.) Sentinel. " It surpasses any thing of the kind we know of." F^o^n the Southern Opinion^ Richmond^ Va. "We can after a pleased perusal recommend it to our friends every where. " Fro7n the New York Tribune. " Our Schoolday Visitor is a most valuable aid in Ju- yenile Education." From the Salem {Mass.) Register. " Our Schoolday Visitor is not only one of the cheap- est and best, but absolutely the handsomest of all the Peri- odicals for Young Folks that we have seen." From the Northern Christian Advocate., Auburn., N. T. *' We commend it without any reservation." From the Sunday School Journal., New York. " Our Schoolday Visitor is the handsomest and best edited of all the Monthly Magazines for Boys and Girla that come under our notice." From the Israelite., Cincinnati., 0. "We feel confident in saying that Our Schoolday Visitor is not equaled by any other School or Young Peo- ple's Magazine, published in this country." From the Rural New Yorker. " It has no equal to our knowledge." From the Pennsylvania School Journal. " Our Schoolday Visitor is decidedly one of the best Magazines for Young People. Its contents are exceedingly rich and varied, and of the highest tone of morality and literature." (4) COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY LIBRARIES 0021131015