mber Sculp' MiKw lirmm ^tAx^i\!\(niM, iiiji.;. '^^.v/o.^6'^/i^ E M I R THE REV. JOHN STANFORD. D. BV CHARLES G. SOMMERS, PASTOR t>F TflE SOUTH EAl'TtST CHURCH IN NEW-YOEK.. TOGETIIKU WITH AN ArPENUIX, COMPRISING BKIKF MEMOIKS OF THE REV. JOHN WILI.IANS, THE IJEV. THOMAS BALPWIN, D. D. AND TI!F. KEV. RICHAUU VURMAN, H. D. The righteous shall bi; in exerlasting remembrance. — Psalm cxii. f> N E W - Y O K K : STANFORD AND S W O K D S 1844. Entered acconling to Act of Congress, by Thomas N. Stanford, in the- Clerk's ofTice of tiie Soutlicrn District of New- York. S7S6 TO THB HONOURABLE THE MAYOR AND CORPORATION OF THE CITY OF NEW-YORK; TO THE GOVERNORS OF THE NEW- YORK HOSPITAL; AMD TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE SEVERAL HUMANE AND CRIMINAL INSTITUTIONS, IN WHICH THE REV. JOHN STANFORD, D. D. >TAS FOR MORE THAN TWENTY YEARS THE DEVOTE© AND UNIVERSALLY BELOVED CHAPLAIN ; THIS INI E M O I R IS MOST RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED, BY THE AUTHOR. SSO-iOO ADVERTISEMENT. The pronent Memoir of the Rev. John Stan- ford, D. D. was commenced at the particular solicitation of iiis surviving relatives and other friends. It was attempted with great diffi- dence, and continued under all the disadvant- ages of accumulated public duties and frequent interruptions. Historical accuracy, and not literary excellence, is all at which circumstances have enabled the writer to aim ; he would, therefore, bespeak the indulgence of the rea- der, so far at least as regards those incidental imperfections which a just criticism may de- tect. With no ambition for authorship, but in humble hope that this biography of a servant of Jesus Christ, so eminently pious, and of such distinguished usefulness, may be made instrumental in promoting that cause to which his youth and hoary age were alike devoted, the work is committed to the providence of God. B Vl ADVERTISEMENT. The Appendix, comprising the memoirs of three eminently pious and useful Baptist mi- nisters, has been added, for the purpose of giving greater publicity to the history of their worth. Wiiile living, they were the affec- tionate friends of Dr. Stanford; it seemed, tljerefore, to be peculiarly appropriate to in- clude the brief narrative of their lives in the ^ame volume. PREFACE. If to enlighten and affect the human mind be one means appointed by heaven to promote the moral interests of mankind, then it cannot but be an acceptable service, to spread before the world the history of those who, by uniform and exalted piety, have exemplified the sanctifying power of the gospel of Jesus Christ. By so doing, we multiply the motives to a holy life, and embalm the memory of the just. " Let their raem'ry shine, In glories that survive their living days, t As od'rous scents outlaet the censer's blaze." A desire to remember and to be remembered, is a principle inseparable from the nature of man ; and this feeling has not unfrequently been sanctified to the improvement and pleasure of those who have had sense and good taste sufiicient to prefer the narrative dictated by truth, to works of mere imagination- The fictions of the poet and the novelist will vanish like the meteor's blaze, but the records of the Viii PREFACE. Christian Church shall survive, in the memoirs of those who have added their testimony to that of " the great multitude, which no man can number." A volume of Christian biography, where history teaches by the power of example, cannot fail to make an impression on the mind of the reader, which the apocryphal eftusions of those who write merely to please thy fancy can never produce. Every attempt, therefore, to excite the souls of men to spiritual action, by illustrating the beauty and excellency of religion, as it regulates and blesses life, and pours its consolations, like the light of heaven, around the death-bed of the Christian pilgrim, must be regarded as a work of benevolence. The design of this memoir is, neither to build the tombs of the prophets, nor to garnish the sepulchres of the righteous; but, by recording the virtues of the pious dead, to enforce the divine precept — "Go thou and do likewise." The advantages of a good example arc every where acknowledged, because, by a secret but powerful influence, it urges us to imitation. This principle was so well understood by tiie Romans, that they preserved, with the greatest care, the pictures of their brave progenitors, as a means of exciting them to emulate their heroic patriotism. Caesar never said to his soldiers, " Ite," go on; but his animating command was, " Venite," come on, or, follow me. In tiie name of One, greater than Cffisar, the apostle commands all who aspire to the immortal honours of victory over the powers of darkness, " JJe ye followers PREFACE. 1* of them who, through faith and patience, inherit the promises." It is not intended to present the subject of this memoir as a perfect exemplar; but it may, without exaggeration, be said, that by the grace of God he was enabled, amidst the toils and changes of a long life, "through manifestation of the truth, to commend himself to the consciences of all men in the sight of God." He maintained his integrity, and active spiritual vitality, unto the end. " If faults he had, they were sncli as made No blot npon the picture. A man immaculate we never knew." That the life of our venerable friend was devoted to the glory of God, the present ha[)piness and future salvation of men, will be doubted by no one acquainted with his indefatigable labours as a minister of Christ ; and it is reasonable to suppose, that the Christian public desire to become more familiar with the private history of a man so highly distinguished for usefulness, and so universally beloved. How far the present volume may conduce to the proposed end, must be submitted to the judgment of the reader, from whose kindness the writer will hope, that its moral tendency will shield both the work and i$s author, at least from severe criticism. The peculiar mental and moral characteristics of Dr. Stanford, may be said to have consisted in an unconquerable attachment to the cause of God and X PREFACE. truth ; and a faithful appropriation of all the powers of his mind to promulgate the gospel, by proclaiming the way of salvation, through Jesus Christ, from the pulpit and from the press. In the first of these departments of Christian effort, the following pages will show, that he was surpassed by few men of the present age; and as a pungent and lucid writer en practical divinity, he is favourably known to the Christian world. By the death of Dr. Stanford, the cause of truth has sustained a great loss; yet he was providentially preserved to an advanced age, to bless mankind by his precept and example. While, therefore, we bow in submission before Him whose ways are unsearchable, and his judgments past finding out, we may hope, that the imperishable lustre of the example which he has bequeathed will excite thou- sands to the faithful and diligent performance of their duty, that, when time with them shall be no more, they may inherit the blessing. The following work has been in part composed from manuscri[)t volumes containing his diary, from fugitive pieces, written at intervals, and from Fuch facts, with regard to his i)ublic labours, as the author could collect from his own memory, or that of friends. In every instance, great pains have been taken to give, in Dr. Stanford's own words, whatever was fit for the public eye. From the very imperfect state of all liis papers, it is evident that he could not have written with a view to posthumous publication. PREFACE. XJ It was originally ihc design of the writer to have enriched the present work with a condensed history, and lithographic views, of all the public institutions in this city, in which Dr. S. laboured; and to have furnished the statistics of New- York, from the days of its original founders, materials for which had been amply provided in a manuscript volume which Dr. S. prepared, with incredible labour, in the examination of the public and private sources of statistical infor- mation; and which contained important facts relating to the history of New-York, for more than one hundred and eighty years past, which few other men had the means of obtaining. This valuable production, written in Dr. Stanford's usual style of elegant pensnanship, was [)resented to the Common Council of New- York, but is now, we fear, irrecover- ably lost. Great disappointment has been experienced in the impossibility of finding this book, notwithstand- ing a most laborious and persevering search of about six months; by which this memoir has been delayed until the present time, and the author has been compelled to have recourse to other sources for the historical statements which are interspersed through- out the jiresent work. That the following pages, designed to promote the interests of evangelical piety, may be acceptable to the reader, and accompanie Meditation in tho Fielilfl Retirement, Meditation, and Prayer Sanctified Affliction aetter to the Sh.iflsbnry Association » — iiuptists, not addicted to Politics Tlio Domestic Cliiiplain Letter to Jolm Holmes, F.sq. Merciful Interposition of Providence -- " - V isit to Governor Bloomfield A memorable Event New Year'H Sermon •..—Letter to Governor Bloomfield JUitter from Governor Bloomfield •^Now-York Alms-House Hid Field of Labonr Obstacles did not impede him Gratitude of his Hearers A Week's Work AI)oniiding in the Work of the Lord His Labours in the State-Prison (Conversion of J. R. Victory through Christ CHAPTER Vn. Worthy of Imitation Letter to E. II. Esq. Ont of Weakness he was made Strong Blinislorial tiualifications Gratuitous Distribution ol' Tracts Letter to the liev. William Hallock - Letter to C. G. S. Submission to the Divine Will The Facetious Dutchman Ordination ofthe Rev. Daniel Sharp A Painful .ArciiltMit Essay on Walking with God Sudden Illness Letter to Captain W. Tract on tiio Lord's Day Hislorv of J. fl. "15 97 96 90 lOO 101 103 104 105 106 107 108 110 111 112 lis 114 iin 116 117 lis iiy 121 123 193 124 12G 126 127 128 129 KJO i:u 13ri K54 y^G 137 CHAPTER VIII. Divinity Students Tract on I'rofane Swearing l^itter to Dr. H. Interesiing Im-idcnt J-etterto Mr. E. J. W. Hiri Denire to be Useful Walking by Faith 141 142 14U 145 140 14? 150 XVI CONTENTS. I^tin Letter by O. P. The Translatiou The Debtors Services unrewarded Magdalen- Asylum Conversion of J. W. C. Happy Death of J. \V. C. Satan and Ned Craig vanquished Bridewell Conversion of R. A Prisoner in Chains His Field of Labour enlarged A 8trangcr on the Earth Zeuo and Seueca CHAPTER LX. His first Sermon in the New-York HoBpital Military Hospital Grateful Sailors A Magdalen reclaimed Happy Death of J. R. Dreadful Conseqiiencee of Infidelity The Hatred of Ahab Society of the United Brethren Letter to A. B. Esq. Schools in the State-Prison Another Victim of Seduction saved Catechism for the Young Prisoners Triumphs of the Gospel Ordination of Mr. Elliott Horrible Consequences of Deism Recantation Converfiion of W. S. L. School in the Hospital Colonel ('olden Chapel in the Debtor's Prison Cold Water Toasts Schools examined The teni()t<'d Stranger LeUer to Mr. U . S. |{iot in the Stole Prison air. Stanford in the Pulpit Pag« 151 155J 153 154 155 156 158 159 160 161 162 163 164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 173 174 176 177 178 179 170 181 ie2 183 184 185 186 187 188 189 190 19:i 194 CiL\PTER X. Service!- in tho Pnblio Institutions Dc'Mih of Mrs. Isabella (Jrahaiu A Sudden Death Funeral of Mrs. Fsiibella Graham Converfion of G. B. A Brand plucked out of tin? Firu 195 196 197 198 199 200 CONTENTS. XVll Interesting Casfis Improvements in Bridewell His Labours blessed Another good Day's Work Out-door Patients Pardons Sermon on the Death of Elijah Hunter, Two Men under Sentence of Death Letter from the Hon. Richard Stanford Death of the Hon. Richard Stanford New Aims-House ftlanuscript Book lost Resignation in Death Sabbath Breakers converted Letter from Governor Tompkins.-^ Conditional Pardons CHAPTER XI Visit of President Monroe — -"^ The Chaplain highly commended Conversion of H. T. Happy Death of H. T. Letter from Governor Clinton The Sandbank Letter from the Rev. Peter Mortimer Conversion of W. L. Letter from the Hon. Thomas J. Spicer An Infant Disciple CHAPTER XII The Gospel preached to Lunatics Mr. Stanford's Labours appreciated Six Sermons preached in one Day Narrative of George Vanderpool Extraordinary amount of Labour PaM 20? 202 203 204 205 206 207 203 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 213 219 220 222 223 224 225 226 227 230 232 233 234 235 240 CHAPTER Xin. Visit to the South' Short Sermons Funeral of John Withington The South Baptist Church Letter from the Rev. Dr. Cox Diaua Sellick saved from the Gallows 241 242 243 244 245 251 CHAPTER XIV. Letter to the Hon. Nicholas Brown Concern for the Welfare of Mariners Another Benevolent Plan proposed 253 254 S55 XVIII noNTF.NTS. Importance of Educating Stamen Letter from Captain Perry, U. »S. N. Death of Wiiliajn Stanford Awful Steam-Boat Explosion Dying Experience of the Snfterers A Memorial of the Lord's Goodness Crossing the Bar of Old Age Gratefnl Reminiscences Benefits of Affliction acknowledged His Children Fear the Lord Christ the only Refuge for the Sonl CHAPTER XV. Mr, Stanford's Portrait The Murderer of Captain West The grand Canal Celebration Origin of the New-York House of Refuge - Address to the Mayor and Corporation Plan of the proposed Institution Ways and Means Concluding Remarks Location of the House of Refuge Dedication Sermon Present Number of Inmates The Prisoner's Companion Merit di?claimeil The Foundation re-rxaminod Fare 250 2;')? 258 2r>!) 260 261 262 263 204 265 266 268 269 270 271 272 273 275 276 277 278 27J) 280 281 282 CHAPTER XVL Death of the Rev. C. R. Duffle Letter from the Hon. Charles Carroll Gratitude for Divine Favours Origin of the New-York Mcclianics' Fdiool Good Advice to a Pliynir ian Sabbath Schools Closing the Year with Prayer Rev. John Stanford. D. D. Origin of the Institution for llie Inf-truction of Deaf Miitrs j New-York Letter from the lion. Philip llonc, T.n\. - The Aged Christian's Cnbiiitt The Everlasting Sabbatism CHAPTER XVIL Letter to Mrs. Wetmnre Prayer for the Light of Life The Slanforc! Lihiary at Bellcvne Tract OB Morning and Evening I)fV(ition - Letter to Mrs. A\clinorc 2P4 885 2e6 287 288 289 200 291 293 294 295 29(5 298 299 3(10 301 oG3 CONTENTS. xU 'Hie F.bpnezer Bigotry disclaimpcl His last Annual Census Tic Douloureux The Domestic Chaplain His last Letter to Mrs. Wetmore Dr. Stanford's la.'st Tract An Artecting Scene Last Letter to the Rev. Joseph Grafton Letter froni the Rev. .Toseph Grafton Rev. Drs. Brownlee, Knox, and De Witt Dr. Stanford's Decease Letters of Condolence Summary View Letter from the Rev. Spencer H. Cone APPENDLX Proface ...r-^-^Iemoir of the Rev. John Williams Memoir of tlie Rev. Thomas Baldwin, D. D. ifc-iBoir of the Rev. Richard Fiirniaii, D. D. 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 313 314 314 315 319 336 343 345 369 405 \ M E M O I R. CHAPTER I. niRTII AND Et)UCATION F.ARLY nELIOIOUS IMPRESSIONS- SETTLEMENT AT HAMMESUMITH. t\ attempting to jjortray the character and life of a devoted minister of Christ, it would seem natural to exclaim in the language of the pious bard — " Some aiiger of the ripisco|)al Church, and highly op- posed to every one of a different persuasion. At this CONFIRMATION. 15 period a young i^cntleinan, (Mr. Potter) the son of a hlglily respectable family, was reported to liavc left liis ^'parish church,'''' and attended a chapel of the dis- senters. Althon<^h young Stanford had no personal intimacy with Mr. P. he appears to have been much displeased with his conduct in this instance, and ac- cordingly wrote him a letter, in which lie ridiculed all sectaries, and unguardedly censured that practice which he has since acknowledged to be, " the good ways ot the Lord." This letter appears to have afforded him a degree of present exultation, but was subsequently followed with many tears. Upon the subject of his own religious course, he says — " Notice being given in the parish church, that a confirmation would be attended by the bishop, at Lambeth, about five miles from London, and that candidates should apply to the curate for examination, I was anxious to avail myself of the opportunity. I was however advised first to consult my uncle, who was also my ' god-father ,^ and upon whose favour all my worldly prospects were susjjendcd. When I mentioned the subject to him, he kindly replied : * it is well enough that young people should be confirmed, and as an opjiortunity offers, yes, you may go ; espe- cially as some of your young companions will make up a party, and that will serve as a holiday.' I then rej)aired to the curate, who, being informed that I could say ' the creed, the Lord's prayer, and the ten commandments,' said, ' you are sufficiently qualified for confirmation.' " He was accordingly confirmed ; and upon this subject he remarks : — " This act did undoubtedly very much contribute to the establish- ment of my belief, that by my infant baptism I was ' regenerated, made a child of God, and an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven.' From this time I con- cluded my moral state secure — nothing more was now necessary, to make me a Christian. A most delusive snaro to me — to thousands !" 16 RELIGIOUS TRACTS. His veneration for the Lord's day appears to have been generally commendable. But, on a particular occasion, he yielded to the earnest solicitations of some young persons, to accompany them on a party of pleasure upon the river. When returning they were in imminent danger of being drowned, but heaven interposed to save them from a watery grave. Their merciful preservation at this time, made an impression upon his mind, which effectually secured him against every future temptation to desecrate the iiallowed Sabbath of the Lord. Several years after this event, he wrote a twelve page tract, entitled " The Lord's Day," which has been widely circu- lated, and is deservedly regarded as among the best publications upon that subject. As an evidence of his early labours in the tract cause, it deserves to be recorded, that about fifty-five years* ago, he published two tracts, in London, entitled *' Critk- RIONS, WHEREBY THE YOUNG CHRISTIAN MAY TRY THE REALITY OF HIS PROFESSION," and " ThE Celestial Lxhabitant, or Christ dwelling in THE Hearts of his People." They were gra- tuitously and extensively distributed. In relating the wonderful story of his conversion to God, he remarks : — " The address of the widow of Tekoah to king David, on behalf of his exiled son Absalom, God ' deviseth means, that his banished be not expelled from him,' (2 Sam. xiv. 14,) has indeed been verified in my experience. Means, the most simple, and least expected, arc often employed by the Lord to produce the most important results; jiar- ticularly in bringing sinners from the error of their way, to taste the sweetness of redeeming love, and * The London Rcliijions Tract. Society, wliidi is tii(! |)aront of all tli(v principal Tract Societies ;it present existing in the world, coininenced ita oj)<;r;itions in J7!)!>, wliicli was ninetetMi years after tiic time when Mi. Stanford published the above named tracts. INTERCOURSE WITH MR. CLEEVE HOOPER. 17 rest beneath the covert of Iminanuel's wings. Such, I humbly trust, iias been God's unspeakable goodness to me, at a time when I was wrapijcd in pharisaical security, ignorant of myself, and far, very far from the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. Under a sermon, delivered by the Rev. Mr. Romaine, it pleased God to manifest his grace to Mr. Cleeve Hooper, who had been my classmate. Although in our aca- demical intercourse no particular attachment was developed, yet no sooner was Mr. Hooper brought to the enjoyment of a hope of salvation through the sacrifice of Christ, than he began to discover a deep solicitude for my spiritual welfare. He therefore made me a visit, dropped a few religious words in conversation, on purpose to try tlie state of my heart; which, notwithstanding my boasted morality, he easily perceived was very far from being right with God. Although he lived at a distance of eight miles, yet he repeated his visits frequently — spoke of man's de- pravity — the necessity of being born again — a total renunciation of all human merit — complete redemp- tion by the blood of Christ — and the absolute necessity of faith, in order to ' walk with God,' and bear fruit to his glory. These sentiments I did not take upon me to contradict; but, I must confess, my heart arose in opposition to them. Several months elapsed before Mr. Hooper ventured to attack my strong holds of self-righteousness, but, at length he presented the alarming statements of the Bible respecting the holi- ness, spirituality, and extent of the law of God, in its precepts and demands — the insufficiency of our own righteousness, and the absolute necessity of being divested of all legal hopes; before the sinner will submit to God, and be willing to accept of salvation by the righteousness of Christ. This left a slight conviction on my mind, and, from the passages of Scripture which he produced in support of his own sentiments, I was led to conclude that these things 2* 18 PRIVATE PRAYER. were true. I now began to feel a desire to know myself, and to be saved from my sins. Mr. Hooper perceiving he had at least obtained access to my ear, and that I began better to approve of his religious conversation, sent me Romaine's treatise on " The Life of Faith," accompanied with an affectionate note. On Mr. Hooper's next visit, he exphiined to me the office of the Holy Spirit to enlighten the dark mind, to testify of Christ, and to lead the soul into happy communion with God. I felt much distressed that I knew nothing of these things, and concluded I was far from being in a state of safety. " After the departure of my friend I retired to my chamber with a desire to pray, in hope of obtaining relief. 1 prostrated myself before the Lord, but my mind was covered with darkness — not one suitable thought did 1 possess of the majesty of the supreme Being whom I was about to address. All was dark- ness and confusion — 1 cried out, ' O Lord, 1 do not know thee; how then shall I pray.' I arose with conscious shame ; hastily left my chamber, and went many days mourning over a hard, ignorant, unbeliev- ing heart. A period this, whicli it is not probable I shall ever forget, as it was the first time I might be said to realize my fallen and sinful state. " One day while reading the fifty-fourth chapter of Isaiah, 1 received great encouragement from the thirteenth verse : ' All thy children shall be taught of the Lord ; and great shall be the i)eace of thy children.' After this 1 retired for prayer, earnestly pleading this gracious promise, and found thereby a veiy great increase of earnest desires after the Lord. 1 con id not rest satisfied ; but j)anted after the enjoy- ment of that real good, which I was unable to describe. If walking the streets, at home, or abroad, I every where f(;lt an cngagedncss of heart for spiritual bless- ings unknown to me l)efore. While silting in my chamber meditating upon the wonderful mercy of the THE PACK OF CARDtJ BURIED. 19 Lord, I cast my eyes upon a pack of cards, to the use of which I had been f>reatly addicted ; 1 instantly seized and carried them into the garden, and threw them into a trench dug to receive some plants, and covered them up. Tims I left the book of cards and embraced the book of God, which I hope will be the means of my enjoying more abundant and more sublime pleasures. " About this time my raind was greatly distressed on account of having received the Lord's supper when 1 was in an unconverted state, and merely as constituting a public profession ; thereby, as I con- cluded, having sealed my own condemnation, ' not discerning the Lord's body.' 3Ioreover, my conduct to Mr. Potter, tJie young gentleman already named, gave me great disquietude, and had a tendency to show me, how far my pharisaical zeal had influenced me to throw stumbling-blocks in the way of others who were concerned for their salvation. This subject produced much uneasiness of mind, nor could I rest until I had forn)ed an accjuaintance with him, and acknowledged with regret that 1 was the author of tiie letter already alluded to. It pleased God so far to bless this resolution, that a mutual friendship was produced, and we walked together many years in the ways of Christian obedience. Glory be to the Lord for this instance; of his sovereign goodness. " As to the general exercises of my mind for several months, hope and fear, pleasure and pain, alternately occupied my heart. Sometimes cold and indifferent, then warm desires expressed in the language of David, ' O that 1 had wings like a dove, then would I fly away, and be at rest.' About this time, my uncle invited me to join a party of young persons to visit Vauxhali Gardens, a place of carnal pleasure. This was not only a strong temptation, but a source of great dis- tress — my temporal interest 1 knew depended upon his favour, and I had not fortitude suflicient to refuse, 20 PRAYERFUL STUDY OF THE BIBLE. although compliance created intense agony of mind. In the garden I seemed as it" in the infernal regions — music, singing, exhibitions, company, all, all was in opposition to the state of my feelings, and filled my heart with sonow. However, 1 found some consola- tion in contemplating the alteration in my own mind, for I had never before considered such amusements as inconipatible with Christianity. This consideration was the more welcome, as it enabled me upon scrip- tural principles, to conclude, that God must have produced this great and surprising change in my o])inions and feelings." Shortly after this, Mr. Hooper commenced a syste- matic correspondence with Mr. S. which was blessed of God as a means of his spiritual improvement in the knowledge of Christ. The writings of Hervey, Jones, Romaine, and especially a pamphlet, entitled " A Drop of Honey from the Rock Christ," (the work of Wilcox, one of the early Baptist ministers of Lon- don,) were also very useful to him. But above all, the sacred volume appears to have been the chief source of his consolation. Through this celestial medium, he was enabled to contemplate the person, offices, vicarious sacrifice, grace, and promises, of the l^ord Jesus, as exactly suited to his necessities. Thus did the Holy Spirit mercifully conduct and shine upon his soul, to dispel the moral darkness and to enable him to say with David, " Into thy hands I commit my spirit, for thou hast redeemed me, O Lord God of truth." From this time his mind was directed to the pray- erful study of the Holy Bible, in every part of which, he seems to have discovered the glory of Christ, as John beheld the apocalyptic angel, standing in the midst of the sun. Like the primitive Baptist, the public ministry of John Stanford commenced amongst the poor. Divine Providence so ordered it, that shortly after ABANDONED BY lilS L'NCU:. 21 Ills convers'on, lie was frequently in\ itod to visit the sick and dying- ; and on these occasions lie i^enerally used the Ibrm oi" prayer prescribed by the tpiscopa! Church. But, upon this subject, he remarks, " being one day requested to attend an unhappy man, whose criminal indulgencics had prostrated his vital eneri^ies, atid brou<^ht him to the gates of death; 1 found that the form of prayer, although generally very excellent, did not suit the peculiarities of his case." On this occasion he for the first time, in the presence of others, ventured to express his desires to God, by extemporaneous prayer. IN'ot enjoying the stated ministry of the Gospel in his native town, he embraced every opportunity of going to London, where, to his great edification, and growth in grace; he heard the Rev. Mr. Romaine, and other evangelical ministers of Christ. Here for a time, he seemed to " lie down in green pastures,''^ and to be led " beside the still waters;''^ but, as in the case of Israel, who had no sooner passed over Jordan, than they were met by the Canaanites, so, although to him unknown, the hour and the powers of darkness were at hand. — In his journal he remarks : — " Passing over Wandsworth bridge in a very happy frame of mind ; I was strongly tempted to question whether I was a child of God, as I was exempted from those afilictions to which in the Scriptures, the saints are said to be appointed. Little did I then think I was so near the furnace, much less, that I should wear the badge of affliction so many years. By some un- known j)ersons, it was intimated to my uncle, that his nephew had become •' strangely religious, left his church, and went after dissenters.''^ This intelligence greatly exasperated him ; and one day as lie was passing by my window, he saw me reading a religious book, which had a tendency to confirm his suspicion, and he withdrew his attention from me. From this tiniG our intercourse was cut off', and I saw him no 22 DEATH OF HIS UN' CLE AND HIS MOTHER. more, until his death, which occiired after a few weeks of confinement to his chamber ! On inquiry concerning his affairs, 1 found he had altered his will, left his property to an indifferent person ; and be- queathed no more to me, than enough to answer the requisition of the law in my favour as his heir. After so many years sanguine expectation, at the very period when his assistance seemed to be indispensably necessary to my advancement in public life; to have my earthly support fail, and my prospects suddenly blasted ; was certainly a severe trial. Young in ex- perience, I could not then penetrate the designs of Providence in that event; but it afforded me great satisfaction to feel entirely conscious, that I had not procured this treatment by any imprudent or sinful conduct ; but only, because I ' had become religious, and had gone offer the dissenters.'' " When subsequently I walked over those fields which my late uncle had so often told me should be mine, I confess that I felt a degree of disappointment; hut I was assisted to reflect, that if my heavenly Father knew that the possession of these fields would have been for my good, I most certainly should have inherited them. This consideration entirely recon- ciled me to the dispensations of heaven, and enabled me to say, ' Not my will, but thine be done.' *' IJut no sooner was my uncle dej)osited in his grave, and my mind in a great degree relieved from the distress which his conduct towards me had produced, than a far greater afiliction was prejiared for the trial of my faith. My mother was now about forming a second marriage, but she was suddenly taken very ill with a bilious fever, and, within the time appointed for her nuptials, she was conveyed to the silent toml). *' This siulden and painful bcreavment, which de- volved upon me, the charge of three sisters, the oldest not more than twelve years of age, with but a dark prospect before me, almost bowed me down to the dust. MR. STANFORD REMOVES TO HAMMERSMITH. 23 I5ut the Lord enabled me to adopt the prayer of David — ' Guide me in the way in whicli I should go, for I lift up my soul unto thee.' This aflliction was greatly augmented by a near relative who took possession of Tiiy mother's property, under a pretext of obligations due to him from my deceased father, and we were left not merely orphans, but destitute of the means of support. — In the evening, while sitting alone in the parlour, (piite disconsolate, and without an earthly friend in whom 1 could confide, it pleased God sensibly to apply to my mind this approjiriate and invaluable j)romise — ' Verily thou shalt be fed.' Psalm xxxvii. 3. it was indeed the voice of God, speaking comfort to my disconsolate heart. True, the Lord by this pro- mise did not say when, where, w ith what, nor by what means I should be fed ; but it was enough for me at that time to be assured, that a supply should be granted. Nevertheless, during the ensuing two weeks the cloud seemed to grow darker. I now made my last visit to Samuel Naylor, Esq, attorney in London, in order to settle my mother's aliairs. At the close of business, and finding that I had been bereft of all, Mr. Naylor expressed his generous concern for my afflictions, and asked me what now were my pros- pects ? I told him, that as to the result I was of course ignorant, but that my reliance was wholly upon the Lord. I then knew not that Mr. Naylor was a professor of religion, lie replied, ' A minister who keeps a boarding-school at the place where 1 have my country-house ; is going to live upon an estate in Northam|)tonshire, left him by his grand-father, and if you choose to accept the settlement, I will secure it for you.' To this I objected, having no property; but Mr. Naylor generously engaged to become respon- sible for me, and his oflcr was gratefully accepted." Mr. Stanford's removal to Hammersmith was not only attended with many temporal comforts, but ulti- mately led to the establishment of a church in that 24 HIS CALL TO THE CHRLSTLVN MLMSTRV. place. Thus did the Lord show him, that his " way is in the whirlwind, and the clouds are the dust of his feet." In this tield of usefulness he continued to lal)Our with successful assiduity, until the Holy Spirit, the Providence of God, and the Church of Christ, with united voice, called him to the more exalted and responsible duties of the Christian ministry. CHAPTER ir. UK liXAMINES THE VALIDITY OF INTANT BAPTISM JOINS TUB CHURCH UNDER THE CARE OK THE RET. BENJAMIN WALLIN — ORDAINED TO THE WORK OF THE MINISTBY— 26 CONVERSATION RESPECTING BAPTIS3I. The aiitlior hopes that it will not be regarded as invidious, but due to truth, to say, that in the iiistory of the Baptist Church, events of a similar description have already multiplied beyond computation ; and they continue to recur with sucli frequency, as to have well nigh ceased to be the subject of particular remark. These repeated instances of change, from padohajdisvi to believer's baptism, cannot, so far as the ministry is concerned, be ascribed to the hope of greater pecuni- ary advantage ; because that end, it is confidently (jelieved, would in most cases be belter attained, by remaining in the communion of any other evangelical denomination. It is moreover an invariable practice, to demand a scriptin-al account of the reasons which have led to the change ; and no person can be ad- mitted as a private member, much less as a minister of the Baptist Church, unless he is able to point to those parts of the Bible which prove the immersion* of beUevers, to be, tite baptism of i/ie New Testament. Upon this subject Mr. Stanford remarks: — " Edu- cated in the Church of England, as by law established, I was very warndy attached to its services. Mr. Hooper, in conversation one day, asked me, If I had thought on the validity of my baptism ? I replied, I have no doubt of the validity of my baptism : the rector performed the ceremony ; my uncle was god- father; and my baptismal name is registered in the parish church book. I do not deny, said Mr. II. but that you nuiy have liad infant bajitism, but 1 wish to know if you believe that service to have been commanded by the Lord, in the New Testament ? I answered, that I had never thought of calling my " Upon tlie nullioiity of ;iii Episcopal clergyman of lliis city, it ir> gralifyiiir? to Ik; poiiiiilled to stato a fact, which is not goiierally known : that; ■' In this conntiy, l)a])lisn) i)y innncr.sion, is of \f;ry IVeqnent re- currence in the Protestant IOpisco|)al Church. " The minister shall the child or p(n'son to he liajitized in the water. or pour water upon liim.' — liabiicks in tlic ojiccjor baptism. ..,..^.'JT BAPTISM. "27 ^)U|jtio..i in question, nor examined the scriptures on the subject. More to i^ratify my friend, than from any scruple in my own mind, I took the first oppor- tunity to inquire into the scriptural authority for my baptism. This, after imj)ortunate prayer to God was performed, by the aid of the New Testament, and a concordance ; vvhicii enabled me to turn to the words, bapfizc, baptism, &c. &:c. To my extreme moriification, search was in vain. I found that littlo children were brou<^iit to .losus, and ho * blessed them ;' but they were neither bai)tizGd by him, nor by his disciples. i\lark x. IG. I found many pas- sagoa where persons were said to be baptized, all of thcni, professing to believe, Acts viii. 37 — 39, and xviii. 8 ; repent, Acts ii. 38 ; receive the word gladly. Acts ii. 41 ; and to, go on their way rejoicing. Acts viii. 39. A moment's reflection convinced me, that in my infant baptism, I had not possessed any of these pre- requisites ; because unconscious of the act, it having been performed by others on my behalf, and not by any previous consent of my own mind. I likewise found, that whereas, by my said baptism, I had been declared to l)e, ' A child of God, and an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven :^ it had proved a delusive snare to ray soul, and prevented me from seeing the absolute necessity of the NEW BIRTH, BY the Spirit OF God. From this time I began to consider myself an unbaptized person ; but tliat I was now entitled to the ordinance of baj)tism, seeing I had obtained mercy ' to believe to the saving of my soul.' Up to this time I had never witnessed the administration of the ordin- ance according to the practice of the Baptist Church. " Perceiving an error in my former profession, I proceeded in a further examination of the subject. With the New Testament in my hand, 1 found that Christ had declared, * My kingdom is not of this world;' but, THE CiirRCFi of England, is established by the law of the land ; and forms a material part of 28 FIRST INTERVIEW WITH REV. MR. WALLI.N. the civil constitution ; and the king of the reahii is' styled, ' Head of the Church, and Defender of THE Faith.' I also recollected that the Church of England considers the whole nation as baptized ia infancy; and every individual, good and bad, to be members; and consequently required to receive; tlie Lord's supper. Whereas the members of the Church of Christ, as described in the scriptures, are said tu be, ' rcgcncrale'.V — •' called out of the world^-^^ ?icw crealurait'' and acknowledging no other Lord and King, but Jesus Christ. •' 1 next examined the doctrinal articles of the Church of England, and could not but approve of them as really good. I recollected also, many ))iou!« and learned ministers, and others of that comnjunion, to whom I felt the most aftectionate attachment. Duty, however, was a personal concern ; and what ever others might do, according to what they liud been taught, it became me to listen to the voire of Jesus — ' What is thai to thee, follow thou me.'' This I wished to do in humility and love; at the same time, possessing the most sincere regard for other:^, though not united to the same denomination with myself. I can truly say, ' Grace, mercy and peace, he tcith the Israel of God.' At this time I was in- troduced to the Rev. ]5enjarnin AVallin,* of London ; and carefully examined the principles and practicesi * The Rev. Bonjamin Wallin, was for more than foity years, the devoted and useful pastor of tlie Baptist church in Maze-poiul, London. As a minister of the Gospol he was laUorioiis, atfoctionate, and successful ; nrtr were his efforts to promote the glory of («od and tlie moral interests of tint world, circumscribed by the boiiiids of iiis own congregation, lie was i man of public spirit, aud sincurely atla<;hed to all goinl nicti. — .Mr. Wallin was one of the ministers who, in 1772, petitioned parliaiiiLMit, to relievo dissenters from the oppressive law whicii required tlicm to subscribe Id the articles of tin,' Cluiich of England. As an author he connnenced hi^ career in 174(5, and attained considerable celebrity. Mis '• Pious Meuii>- rials" — " Memoirs of a Young (jentieman, intended as a warning to Ueists," and several other eijually meritorious works, give ample evideuo uf his fervent piety, and of a sound aud discriminating mind. PEIlSnCUTION FOR, CONSCIEXCE SAKE. 29 of the church over wliicli he was pastor, and found them to correspond with those described in the New Testament. I therefore resolved, in the fear of God, to unite with that peo[)le, and accordingly offered myself as a candidate for membership. As ' tmth the heart jiian bdicvt'th unto rh^-hteousiwss,'' so ' icitk the mouth confession is made vnlo salvation.'' (Rom. X. 10.) I tiierefore declared before the Church, what I believed the Lord had in mercy done for me ; and was accepted, baptized, and received into the fellowship of that community, as a baptized cliurch of Christ, where I enjoyed much of the power and presence of the Ijord Jesus. " Many years have passed away since my public baptism; I have frequently and conscientiously ex- amined the principles upon which I then acted ; I have also had a more extensive acquaintance v»ith the different religious denominations of Christians, and a more deep [jenetration into the word of God ; and although I am f\ir from believing that Baptist churches are in a stale of perfection, yet I cannot but still ap- prove of that denoniination, as nearest to the truth, as it is in Christ, and rejoice in the profession I have made." Added to the loss of his uncle's valuable estate, (to which he was the lawful heir, and which had repeat- edly been promised to him,) in consequence of his leaving the Episcopal Church, and attending the ministry of dissenters; he now exj)erienccd much of that unkindness which, alas! too often frowns upon those who conscientiously believe that Christ and his apostles tvcre Baptists ; and that therefore duty to God requires them to imitate his example. But, regard- less of pecuniary losses, and unyielding amid the re- proaches of his relations and former friends, and the odium which his change of sentiment on the subject of baptism occasioned, he seemed with holy magnanimity to say : — 3* 30 JOSEPH'S COAT OF MANY COLOURS. " Hast thou the cross for me endur'd, And all the shame despis'd ? And shall I be ashain'd, O Lord, With thee to be baptiz'd ? " Didst thou the great example lead, In Jordan's swelling flood ? And s'.iall my pride disdain the deed That's worthy of my God?" — From the foregoing narrative, it docs not oppcar that liis conversion can be refered to any particttlar period, bat that the Lord led him step by slop, like as it was with Ephraini ; '■' I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt. 1 taught Ephraim also to go, taking him by the hand; 1 drew him with cords of love, and with the hands of a man." (Hosea xi.) His convictions of sin were not as |)ung-ent and overuhehn- ing as do sometimes precede the joys of a hope in Christ; " nevertheless," he remarks in his diary ; " the God of my mercy has done that for me which I could not have performed for myself. ' IVIicreas 1 wan Mind, now I see.^ If 1 were not the Lord's, surely he would not liave dealt thus kindly with mc. (jlory be to his unbounded mercy anil unchanging grace!'* The subsequent parts of this narrative, must neces- sarily exhibit a diversified scene. His call to the ministry — public ordination — success and discourage- ments — his private and public alHiction:< — leaving his native country — emigration to America — connections — travels — friends and foes — these, with their attend- ant hoi)es, fears, pleasures and pains, have in sucii close succession attcnd(;(l his steps, that he was ac- customed to say, that Providence, l>y its vicissitudes, seemed to have furnished him with " a Joseph's coat of many colours." Although like David, he was permitted to " sing,^^ both " of mercy and Judg/nni/,'^ and to testify his grati- tude to that Almighty Saviour by whom he had often HE COMMITS IIIM.SELl' TO THE LOKl). -il l)cen miraculously preserved, " nevertheless," he re- marks; "I have dniuk deep of the truly bitter cup; my storms have been more violent tlian fall to the common lot of men ; but when d(;prived of the crea- ture, the liord has made u[) the loss in the enjoyment of Himself, and proved to mo ' a friend, that stickdh closer than a brother.'' " The suljjoincd extracts may serve to describe, the Jiiilit in which he contemplated the prospective duties of life, and the ultimate solemnities of a dyini»- hour. '' My future prospects, whether tem|)oral or spiritual, private or public, 1 most cheerfully leave with that iTood and gracious Shepherd, wiio hath hitherto been my guide and unchangeable friend. BIny tliy visita- tion preserve my heart from sin, and my life from (;vil, that 1 may walk before thee in the light of the living.'' At a subsequent period, and when treading the declivity ol' life, he retnarks: " My death, in some form, is as certain as the decree of God. The time, the place, the means, v.ith every attendant circum- stance, 1 leave to be ordered by infinite wisdom. I have known much of mankind, of books, of the world, and something of my own heart, and 1 cannot but consider it a most important ])oint, rightly to draw the lines of life, so that they may t(M-minate in a happy death. - To Jesus, who lived and died for me, I re- sign the circumstances and the event of my decease, Ixdieving that he will graciously bestow upon me that faith which will sustain me in the solemn jiour." In this holy expectation he was not disappointed. Having thus early formed his pur()oscs, ui)an the divine plan, of faith in Jesus Christ — he believed /?n///y — hned/f» rrnilij — prayed earnest Ij/ — walked humbly — laboured (lilii>enilj/ — wait(.'d patientlj/ — and died triumphantly, for God was with him. " A Ijglit \v;i-! tliore, Whose beam was kindled iVoiu above." 32 HIS PUBLIC ORDIXATION TO THE BIIXISTllY. The following abstract of the account of the public ordination of Mr. Stanford to the work of the Chris- tian ministry, was found amongst his papers, and will, it is hoped, be interesting to the reader. OIIDER OF EXERCISES. " Prayer by the Rev. John Reynolds, — Introductory address by the Rev. W. Clarke, — Confession of faitli by Mr. Stanford, — Hymn, and charge to the minister, by the Rev. Abraham Booth, — Prayer by the Rev. R. Burnham, — Sermon to the church by the Rev. T. Davis, — Hymn, — Concluding prayer. " After tlie public reading of, the call to the pas- toral office from the church of Christ in Hammer- smith to the Rev. John Stanford; the introductory address, &c. was delivered by the Rev. V/illiani Clarke, A. M. who then requested John Stanford publickly to declare his acceptance of the call of this church, and also to give a public testimony of his views of the doctrines revealed in the Bible; and of the order, and practices of the primitive churches." After a very able document upon this subject, but which is here omitted for want of room, the Rev. Mr. Clarke rose and said — " "^rhe church having given an account of the steps by them adopted relative to the call of our brother to the pastoral office; and whereas he lias signified his acceptance, and has now witnessed a good confession of his faith before many witnesses ; we do therefore proceed, in the name of the Lord Jesus, by the laying on of our hands, and by prayer; to invest him with the pastoral office over you as a church." The Rev. Abraham Booth, Rev. John Reynolds, Rev. R. Burnham, and Rev. T.Davis, then proceeded to lay hands upon the pastor elect; while the Rev. Williuni Clarke oflcred the ordaining prayer. ADDRES.S OF TIIK RKV. ABRAHAM BOOTH. 33 Abstract of the address dclivorcd to the piislor by the Rev. Abrahatn Booth, A. M. " 1 shall commence the duty assigned to tno on this occasion, hy reading to yoi;, my brother, the second verse of the fourth chapter of the second Kpistle to the Corinthians. — " By manifcstuiion of the (ruiJt, commending oursdccs to every man''s conscience in the siuin, as a Christian, and particularly as a minidcr. If you do not stud}' these truths, with their nature and tendency, it is not to bo expected that you will commend them to others in your ministry. For you arc not only to study the truth, but, according' to the example of Paul, to manifest the truth to others. This is to bo the great business of your ministry, for it is ' the truth,'' which is appointed of (iod to enlighten the unders^tanding, and awaken the conscience, under the influence of tho divine Spirit. The truth of which the apostle speaks, and which will comibrt the hearts of your hearers, stands in direct op])osition to error and falsehood; and which, in the preceding part of this verse he calls ' The hidden tilings of dishonesty ; walking in craftiness, and handling the word of God deceitfully.'' No man ought to be countenanced as a minister of Christ that is fourul guilty of this fault; or who conceals a part of the truth of (iod's word, or makes a false representation of it. You are, then, to Qnanifest ' the truth,'' the ivhole truth, every part oi' which is precious. " Labour to become acquainted with the doctrines contained in the scri|)tures, that you may be able to ' teach others also.' IJut remember that you arc not always to dwell on some particular and favourite ADDRESS OF THE REV. ABRAIIABI BOOTH. 35 points, but deliver the wliole truth in all its variety. Vou are not to give a hoily of divinitij in a sermon, nor an account of all the articles in your creed ; lor this uould be very injudicious. Carefully avoid that ambiguity in language which would leave the people at a loss to know your real sentiments. " In the whole of your ministry, resolve to be free from the imputation of handling tiie word of God deceitfully. " Here let me lay before you a caution or two. Take care, that under pretence of being open and explicit, you do not degenerate into dogmatism, or become personal in your addresses. In the pulpit, you have to do rather with characters than with persons. You are bound, in faithfulness and in duty, to declare, that drunkards, covetous, self-righteous men, shall not inherit the kingdom of God: but you must not single out any particular jierson before you ; for you will then become ungenerous, and the consc- (piences will be injurious. " Carefidly avoid all language which is low and in- elegant ; but study ' to fiml out accepiahlc ivords,'' that your ministry may not become contemptible. Never think of doing good, but as you preach the plain truth of God. " The iirst end the apostle had in view, v.as, to ' conimcnii liimscif to every mmi's conscience.'' This shows us the integrity and o])enness of his heart towards the children of God, and to the consciences of all men. The more you keep God, trutii, and the consciences of men in view, the more peace will you have in your own mind ; the fear of man will be dis- carded, and the greater probability will there be of your success in the work. " The first thing I would mention as an advantage fiom this way of preaching is, you will be careful what kind of texts you choose for your discourses. I will venture to say, that a minister, whether old or -30 ADDRKSS OF TIIK IlEV. ABRAHA.M BOOTH. young, who takes what may he comparatively called mysterious texts, does so, more to show his own sup- posed abilities, than to commend the truth of God to the consciences of men. How many are there, who, to show their dexterity, take historical facts, and en- deavour to make them speak evangelical truth:?, which they were never intended to utter. I recom- mend you, therefore, to avoid that fanciful. and vain disposition to which young men are more inclined than those who have been long in the ministry. In my younger days I myself was guilty of this fault, whidi now I very much deplore. " Again, the more you keep the approbation of conscience, and the favour of God, in your eye, the more careful will you be to study your text and to manifest the truth which it contains; that the understanding and the conscience of your hearers may be duly enlightened, feel its authority, and God himself approve your labojirs. My brother, you have first of all to do with the understanding ofyour hearers, !ind as there is a glorious harmony and influence in divine truth, it must certainly 0[)erate on the will. Therefore, preach in simj)!icity, the unadulterated truth as it is in Jesus, and leave the event to the pleasure of God. " Again, the more you keep the approbation of God and conscience in view, the more earnest and engaged will }ou be in the work of your ministry. I do not mean, by speaking as loud as you can, to show that vou arc in earnest ; for a person may have a very trilling frame of mind, and utter a great deal of non- sense while speaking very loud. I v.ish you to have !sses, has well coniported with the evangelical doctrines of his public ministry. Irreproachable in his morals — of polite manners, and easy of access- — diligent in his studies, and laborious in his visits to rich and ^;oor, without distinction — his life, while with us, has been an amiable pattern of the Gospel minister. " Providence, Nov. 15, 1789." This document is signed by ninely-Jive persons, but it is not thought necessary to print their names iu this place. 46 ORPHANS INSTRUCTED. His residence in this town, owing to the affectionate solicitations of the church, and a numerous circle of friends, was protracted three months beyond the stipulated period ; after which, at the particular invi- tation of his friends in New-York, he thought it his duty to return, and resume his former employment in the education of youth ; and in preaching the Gospel of Christ, wherever God in his providence should ap- point. " Here," he one day said to a friend, " I hav«; lived many years, passed through scenes of sorrow and of joy, and I am now in a station of usefulness which seldom falls to the lot of any man ; and here I expect and hope to continue to live, and to die iu the Lord." Among other evidences of his Christian philan- thropy, the education of destitute youth, may be men- tioned as a prominent trait. During the last twenty years of his life he was seldom without some poor orphan boy as an inmate of his family, to whose moral and religious education he was much devoted. Seve- ral of tiiese have amply rewarded his generosity and toil, by exemplifying the spirit, and praiseworthy deportment of their tutor. Some of them have risen to great respectability, and continue to lill important stations in the community. — In his anxiety to promote the welfare of the rising generation, Mr. Stanford had few equals. He seems to have adopted, as a favourite maxim, the saying of a Christian of the sixteenth century: "Give them education, that their lives maybe useful; teach them the fear of the Lortl, that their death may bo happy!" What is called, a roving, versatile disposition, ap- pears not to have been amongst the frailties of Mr. Stanford. The changes of his life seem, in a remark- able manner, always to have been ap|)oiuted and regulaf(!d l»y the providence of God. !?y this arrange- ment in the ife was taken ill of the same fever, but on the follow- in"' Wedncsdav she was so far recovered as to obtain ihe physician's consent to visit her mother. This apparently favourable change was succeeded by a relapse, which she survived onk four hours, and then bowed in death. This additional and very jjainful affliction, produced a serious effect uj)on his emaciated frame; nevertheless, he was assisted with Christian resignation to say — " The uill of the Lord he doncP^ The body of Mrs. Stanford was interred in the south- west side of Trinity Church yard; but from the many burials which occurred at that time, it is to be lament- ed that the j)articular sj)ot could never be identified. Among the friends of Mr. Stanford who attended the funeral of his wife. Dr. Provoost caught the fever, but hap})ily survived. Mr. John Cobby, Charles Hazard, (a student of divinity,) Mrs. lloberts, and her sister, contracted the same fatal disease, by sitting lip with him, and died in a few days. The contagion prevailed so greatly in the immediate neighbourhood, that it was entirely deserted by the citizens, and his EFFECTS OF YELLOW FEVEIl IN NEW-YORK. 60 friends thought it necessary to move him to Liimber- stroet, on the other side ol'the city, vviiere he continued more than a montii, in great weakne^^s, chiefly owing to a painful cutaneous eruption which followed the fever. By tiiis tinio it was computed that upwards of two thousand persons had become victims to the pestilence. The young and the aged, the pious and the profane, withered and sunk into the grave beforo the march of the destroyer. Among the fallen were many of the particular friends of i\Ir. Stanford. On the 8th of October, he was permitted to return with his fasniiy to liis own house. V(;ry few of tlie neighbours had ventured to revisit their deserted habitations, and every thing upon which the eye could rest exhibited a spectacle of desolation. Mr. Stan- ford found his house in extreme disorder — theft had been committed on his property — the loss of his ami- able v.ife — and a thousand painful reflections rushing upon liis mind, produced a temporary depression of feeling. But under all these complicated trials ho was enabled to speak of the sparing mercy of his God, and to make a ir;3sh dedication of his soul and body to the service of heaven, and the interest of his motherless children. To preserve the history of events in divine Provi- dence, with which the name of Stanford is so remark- ably identified, we subjoin the following summary: — The first appearance of yellow fever in the city of New- York was in 17.01. It has subsequentiv visited us in 1795, J 798, 1799, 1800, 1803, 180.5, 1819, and ld2"2. It is periiaps impossible, definitely to fix the number of its victims, but from the best sources of information to which we have access, it is probable that about nine thousand persons have died of yellow fever in New-York.* * As to the cause auJ prevalence of this terrible disea.'^e, viirious opinions exist. It is not our province to examine the relative merits ol" TO COMMEMORATIVE SERMON. By this severe and protracted sickness, the disper- sion of the academy, and great extra expenses, IMr. Stanford was brought under much temporal embar- rassment. But the Lord, in his kind providence, by jiersons known and unknown, afforded him supplies,, not unfrequently, in a manner almost n)iraculous. In the life of this good man, how frequently are our sympathies excited in the contemplation of his numer- ous afHictions, but not more frequently than our ad- miration of the mercy and faithfulness of his God, in " delivering Iiim out of f Item all.'''' And should not we learn from these instances of Christian experience, that — " Thougli all seein lost, 'tis impious to despair; The tracks of Providence, like rivers, wind ;" And in their windings prove, that "-4// things work together for good, to them that love God." On the 28th of October, Mr. Stanford re-opened his place of worship, with a discourse, commemora- tive of his rccoverv from the pestilence, founded on Psalm XXX. 2, 3, 4. the arguments employed upon this suhject by medical men, bnt the follovviiig remarks, from the pen of Valentine Seaman, M.D., arein such perfect accordance with our own views, that we cannot deny ourselves the pleaniire of quoting them. '• The much agitated ' question of importation or non-importation, as it res|)<'cts the health of a place,' to use the words of Dr. Smith, ' sinks into its merited insignificance ; the ellicient cause, the causa sinrrjuu won. being clearly discerned as depending on local circunistances.' " To d(!piMid, therefore, for our safely from yellow fever, upon the rigours of our port liws. or the vigilance of our iiealtli otlicers, while these pools ol' putrefaction are suH'ered to remain, is like building a cily with cedar and pine, and confiding in the irntcli to secure us from tire. Ijut if liiese jiregnant sourcws of destruction are dried uj), we may, like those who case the woodiMi work of their brick-built, tile-roofed lionses with iron, rest at ease in our habilations, ecpially secure against the deci'ilfiil ( a[)tain's intrusions, or tiie incnutions sailor's blundering into iiiir ports, in liie one case, as, in tiie oilier, we should be, of the vile incendiary's matcji or tiiO careless neighhour's spark. As llie latter would die in ilu-ir own combustion, so the former would end iu tiie fa;e uf the S'ingle sulleror.' t>AY OF THANKSGIVING. Tl '• O Lord in\j God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed mc. O Lord, thou hast brought up i/iij soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that 1 should not go down to the pit. Sing unto the Lord, O ye saints of his:' On tlic first of November, he resumed his acatle- luial toils, with only five schohirs, owing to tlie un- wilUngncss of parents to send their sons to a part of the city where the pestilence had so lately raged with resistless fury. A short time after the return of his congregation, Mr. Stanford preached a sermon on the death of the Venerable John Cobby, and another on tlie death of Charles Hazard, (one of his students in divinity,) both f)f whom died of the fever. The latter discourse was printed, and the profits ap|)lied to the erection of a monumental tomb-stone. On this day, for the first time since the commencement of the pestilence, Mr. Stanford administered the Lord's supper to as many of the members of his churcli as could be collected. It was a season of deep solemnity ; and all present appeared to be seriously impressed with a sense of the mercy of God in their preservation from death. The rest of the tnonth was filled up with various private and public duties, and the goodness of God continued to be disi)layed in the bostowmcnt of many temporal and spiritual mercies. His healtli however contimied to be very feeble, and it was otdy through the s|)ecial grace of the Lord, that he was enabled to persevere in the discharge of his olHcial labours. The year 1799 was commenced by a solemn review of the alHicting scenes of the past, and nn unreserved dedication of liimself to the service of his Lord ami Saviour. The 5th of January was set apart by the citizens, and churches, as a day for humiliation, and of special thanksgiving for restoration from the late jjublic calamity. As Mr. Stanford was among^t those whtj* 72 THE EUCHARIST. had suffered most severely, and had at the same lime experienced the deUvering; mercy of the Lord, when all hope of recovery had fled, it would seem gratuit- ous to say, that he was among the foremost to appear at the altar, with his thank-offering. In reference to the public service in his own church, Mr. Stanford remarks — " I believe every heart in the congregation I'elt the sweet emotions of gratitude, and every tongue praised tiie delivering hand of God. O that I could improve the future golden moments, and my whole life be loaded with fruits of righteousness !" •• O ! may I ne'er forget The mercies of my God, Nor ever want a tongne to spread, lii.i loudest praise abroad." The congregation having considerably increased, and most of the mem})ers of the chitrch returned to the city, they asseniblcd again on the 3(1 of March, to commemorate, in the eucharist, the death of Christ. " On this occasion," says Mr. Stanford, " the Lord was sensibly ])resent. In preaching the gospel, the Lord to me was truly gracious, and made it a season of joy to the assembly. While administering the bread, as the expressive emblem of my Saviour's crucified body, I was endulged with clearer faith, and more devout aflcctions, than I had experienced for many years. To the communicants also, the liord was ' 7nade known in Ihc hrcakivr of bread,^ and they exi)crienced the sweets of Christian union, as fellow heirs of the grace of life. May this be to us a fore- taste of the Saviour's speedy visitation!" About the latter end of this month, Mr. Stanford ex- perienced great symptomatic debility, almost amount- ing to a second attack of the disease ; and several other j)crsons, who had been restored from the same calamity, were thrown into a similar condition. The; powers of the mind, like a bow unduly strained, ap ORDINATION OF THE RKV. DANIEL HALL. 73 pcared to be breakii\^, and this was accompanied with an almost entire prostration of the physical energies, but in no case did this relapse prove fatal. It was, however, the ojiinion of Mr. Stanford's physicians, that a pulmonary consumption woidd be the result. I'pon this point he remarks : — " I was assisted to look unto the Lord, remember his former loving- kindness, and earnestly to pray, that Christ might be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death." Hoping that a journey might contribute to his restoration, he left home on the 22d of May, for Peek- skill and Clinton-Town. At Peekskill he assisted in the ordination of the Rev. Daniel Hall, as pastor of the church in that place. The sermon which he preached on that occasion, was from 2 Corinthians ii. 16 — " To the one we are the savour of dcaili vnto death; and to the other, the savour of life unto life. And n-ho is svfjieient for these things 9^^ This, to Mr. Stanford, must have been an event of great interest, as Mr. Hall had been one of his divinity students. On the 28th he arrived at Clinton-Town, and met a number of ministers at their annual Association, by whose request he preached a sermon, from 1 Kings XX. 11 — " And the hing of Israel answered and said. Tell hi?n, Let not him thai girdeth on his harness boast himself as he that pnfteth it ojf.^^ " Here," says the good man, "I sensibly felt my infirmities of body and mind. I was very kindly entertained by a family who were of the people called Friends, but had to lament that owing to indisposition, I was entirely disqualified from ministering to their edification in private conver- sation. jXevertheless, the Lord was kind in granting me aid in the public services, and bearing me through the long and tedious journey." In. July he became so much debilitated, that his physicians advised him to remove into the country. " About this time," he says, " I received several in- vitations to take charmi- * TliiH church occupied a building, erected upon the spot where now •lands till! large stout! edifice, iniowu as " Zion Church." The tbrtuer ;>laco of worship was I.Mi;ut ilown in Itill. LETTIIR TO THE .SIlAFTSnURV ASSOCIATION. 00 able wife died during the visit of Mr. Stanford at tlioir house. At the particular reijiiest of the surviving family, he preached the funeral sermon, in the pulpit of the Rev. Samuel Jones, D. D. from Luke viii. 52 — " S/ie is not dead, but slccpcfh.^^ The Rev. William Rogers, D. D. of Philadelphia, closed tlie service with prayer. During inter\'als of comparative ease, he delivered several discourses at Holme burg; and at Nevv-Rritain he preached to a large assembly of ministers, convened at an annual Association, by whose recpiest he wrote a letter to the Shaftsbury Association, from which the following is an extract. " BELOVED IN THE LORD, " Although during this session we have been de- prived of the pleasure of hearing from you, either by letter, or by messenger; our ardent desire for your spiritual prosperity prompts us to address you, and to forward to you our minutes. The cause of our assembling this season at New-Britain, is the afflic- tive visitation of God to the city of Philadelphia, with pestilence. Dreadful calamity ! May the hand which smiteth us, produce reformation of manners among all classes; but especially in the churches of that hitiierto greatly favoured city. " The communications we have received from our churches, and corresponding Associations, have af- forded us the highest pleasure, and laid us under increased obligations of gratitude to Jesus, the King of Zion. Probably no other religious denomination in America is, at the present time, increasing with such unexampled rapidity as our own. May the mercies of the Lord inspire our brethren with greater humility, and that fervent piety which shall best evince our attachment to his holy cause. " We believe it to be of the highest importance to ourselves as individuals, and for the prosperity of religion in the world, that we continue to seek after 100 BAPTISTS, NOT ADDICTED TO POLITICS. the knowledge of the simple truth, as it is in Jesus ; the truth revealed in tlie sacred scriptures, in pre- ference to the opinions of men. Brethren, let us read our Bibles on our knees, and in constant dcpendance upon the influence and teaching of the Spirit of Truth. Thus through grace shall we be able to teach our people to profit, and be preserved from the contami- nating errors of the present day. " Permit us, dear brethren, to suggest, that to us as a denomination, it is of great importance to ex- amine, with careful attention, the sentiments of those who are candidates for the work of the ministry. Ijet us earnestly beseech the Lord Jesus to direct us in the choice of those whom he will graciously own iti the work of the gospel, and make ' our croicn and our " The history of the Baptists in every age furnishes the strongest assurances that our forefathers were scrupulous in withdrawing, as much as possible, from political concerns; well knowing, that our Saviour's; kingdom ' is not of this world.'' We believe, that, as citizens, we are entitled to the exercise of private opinion, and all the rights of citizenship ; but there have been so many instances in which persons of talents and grace, by plunging into the troubled waters of political life, have thereby lost the bloom of their profession, and their usefulness in Zion, that we regard it as our paramount duty, to let our political moderation be known unto all men, especially as we are engaged in the more important interest of our Redeemer^ s king-do?/}. •' By order, and on behalf of the Association, "JOHN STANFORD.' His health being much improved, he bade adieu to his friends in Pennsylvania, and arrived at home in safety on the last day of October. " This year," he remarks, " '■Goodness and mercy have indeed foUovoeU THE DOMESTIC CIIAl'LALV. 101 7//6'/ but it has been comparatively a year of mental darkness and of unfrnitfidness. Lord, what am I, that thou shonldest thus ileliver, and show me thy salvation." Greatly depressed in mind, under a sense of his sinfulness, but stru^glini>' ai^ainst its in- fluence, his prayer was constant and fervent, tliat the mercy of God might sustain him, until his last year should flow into the ocean of eternity. " Tiiere shall I see, and hear, and know, All I desired, or wish'd below ; And every power find sweet enjploy, In that eternal world of joy." As he ended the last year, so he began the year 1S06, under dark and painful exercises of mind. " When," says he, " shall 1 walk in the light of God's countenance, and feel that vivacity and zeal which are so necessary to evince my Christian and ministerial character.^ Still I cannot but adore the faithfulness of my gracious God, and look for brighter days of use- fulness and comfort. Like a mariner in a dark and tempestuous night, 1 can let go my anchor of hope, though I do not sensibly feel the ground on which it should rest. Lord, sanctify and make use of me in private or in public life, according to thy sovereign will and pleasure." On the 21st of February, a volume of lectures, con- taing about 380 pages, under the title of " The Domestic Chaplain," was sent to the press, accompa- nied with many fervent prayers, that God might employ it for the edification and comfort of souls, and for the glory of his own grace. This work has passed through several large editions, in this coun- try and in England, and has, as its name imports, preached the gospel to many families, where the usual means of grace were not enjoyed. " The Domestic Chaplain" has been a useful guide, not only in private devotion, and in the social meeting, 9# 102 THE DOMESTIC CHAPLAIN. but it has served to instruct the soul of the Christian, in the closet and in the parlour ; and to produce a more intimate acquaintance with the volume of Diviuo Revelation, by illustrating its doctrines, enforcing its authority, and recommending the sacred institutions of the gosj)el to the attention and approbation of the reader. These advantages are afforded by the unos- tentatious labours of " The Chaplain," in a manner at once calculated to interest and to enlighten; wliih; each short lecture sheds its hallowed influence over the soul, without the pain of labour, or the consci- ousness of design. A few short extracts fron) t!ic author's preface, will explain more fully the character of this valuable book. " My aim is to be useful in promoting the moral interests of families, by dissemi- nating some of the most important truths of the gospel, in an agreeable variety, without those perplexing con- troversies too prevalent among professors of Christi- anity. I have also in view, the assistance of congre- gations and societies in the country, who are frequently destitute of stated ministers; presuming" that this volume, in the hand of a good reader, may secure the attendance of the people, and jiromote their instruc- tion." — " Time is short — truth is divine and inestim- ably precious. In the construction of these lectures, I solemnly declare, that 1 have not introduced a single sentence, but what, from deliberate thought, I firmly believe bears the impress of the gospel, and is calcu- lated to destroy vice, promote the purest virtue, and aid the real Christian in his life and walk of faith." We may therefore unhesitatingly recommend tl»is work to the attentive perusal of all who desire the knowledge of the truth as it is in Christ. Letter from Mr. Stanford, on the recovery of his friend, .Tohn Holmes, Esq. of Pennsylvania, from a protracted illness. LETTER TO JOHN HOLMES, ESQ. 103 " New-York, March 2d, 1806. " MY DEAR FRIEND, " I was glad to hear, by your daughter, that you were more comfortable than when I left you in Octo- ber, for which I thank God on your behalf. May the health of your body, and especially the spiritual happiness of your soul, increase still more abundanti}-. Wlien I read your ilaughter's letter concerning- you, it brought to my mind, the thanksgiving of Ezra, (x. 8) — ' God hath given its a liUle reviving in our bondage.'' Indeed, while in this tabernacle of clay, we are often many ways in bondage; but, how kind is our Lord, by the light of liis countenance, the power of his grace, and the sweets of his love, to give us, although it be but ' a little' — a week — a day — or an hour's revival. Bless the Lord, my brother. Hold out a little longer, and you and I shall experience the pangs of bondage no more! Those poor bodies will then sleep in the grave, and our souls shall wing their >vay ' Wlieie all nre hless'd, For all are free ' " Divine Providence is one straight line, though to us there may appear many a curve. He giveth grace and .glory. He who bus given you the one, will most assuredly confer the other. To his merciful care I commend you, and remain, " Your's in the Saviour, "JOHN STANFORD." In April he made a visit to the state of Connecticut, and was exposed to many dangers on the passage; yet out of th(^m all the Lord delivered him. Duriuij this excursion, he preached in several towns, to very crowded assemblies ; and, it is confidently believed, that his labours were not in vain in the Lord. This year he received a unanimous call to take the 104 MERCIFUL I.NTERPOtniO.X OF PROVIDEXCE. pastoral charge of the church in Burlington, New- Jersey; and in the month of August he made them a visit, preached eleven times, and administered bap- tism and the Lord's supper. While in this place he received visits from several neighbouring ministers, whose remarks upon the subject of his settlement with this church, greatly assisted him in discerning the path of duty. After this he made a short visit to his friends in Philadelphia, Frankfort, Holmes- burg and Jjower-Dublin; from v^hom lie received fresh tokens of brotherly-kindness, and to whom he publicly communicated the glad tidings of salvation through the blood of Jesus. He arrived at home in safety on the 6th of September. On the 2Jst of this month, another instance of the Lord's peculiar care of Mr. Stanford and his family occurred. The fomily retired at the usual time, but Mr. S. remained until a late hour, employed in medi- tating upon the confidence of Jeremiah in the midst of his afflictions, at the time when he exclaimed — " The Lord is my jwrtion, saiih my soul; therefore loilL I hope hi hhn.^^ Lamentations iii. 24. While wrapt in this heavenly contemplation, the appalling cry of Fire ! Fire ! broke upon the stillness of midnight, and in a few minutes the blaze flashed from the adjoining house upon the windows of his chamber. The fury of the encircling flames, and the confusion of the multitude who soon rushed to the scene of danger — the ringing of bells, the hoarse shout of the watchmen, and the crash of falling timbers, added to the gloomy terrors of a stormy night, constituted this, in many respects, memorable event, truly a scene of liorror. But through the divine favour, the flames were averted from his habitation by a change of the wind, and no extensive injury was sustained, although several of the surrounding bouses were consumed. So true is it, that those who have the Lord for their portion, may hope in him under circumstances the VISIT T'J GOVKIlNOrv, BLOOMFIELD. 105 most aiariuing, and in every scene of danger. For, wliilc as their portion, he gratifies and fills the soul, lie is truly "^ 7'eri/ present help in time of need.'''' O that our souls may attain the delightful assurance of the prophet ; then will it be immaterial, what tria!s and losses we sustain, while treading amid the thorns and briars of the wilderness, as we pursue our journey to the land of rest and peace in heaven. On the last of November, circumstances occurred which enabled Mr. Stanford to decide upon declining the invitation from the church in IJurlington; tliis course was aj)proved l»y his most jtulicious friends. Among other things which led to this determination, was a secret inipression that he had not yet performed all the work which the Lord intended him to do in IVew-York. Mr. Stanford was not a man disposed to yield to the guidance of mere impressions; yet in the present case, as in all former invitations to leave the city, there was something which jirevented his accept- ance, for which at the time he was utterly unable to account. But the developements of succeeding years have snfiiciently demonstrated the will of God, and also the wisdom of his servant, in remaining at the post where Divine Providence had stationed hiiH, and where, during the last twenty-five years of his life, he occupied public stations of no common interest and responsibility. In his journey to Philadelphia, he stopped at Tren- ton, and spent a day at the house of his Excellency Joseph Bloomfield, Governor of New-.Jersey. This was the anniversary of the defeat of the Hessian troops, under the command of Colonel Rhal, who was mortally wounded in the conflict with the Ameri- cans, under command of General Washington, in December, 177G.* The day was celebrated with * The following £;raiihlc description of this highly interesting event iii American history, is from the pen of an eloijiiont writer, who, when sjieuking of the father ofliis country, remarks: — 106 A MEMORABLE EVENT. great military pomp, and at the request of the Governor and his friends, Mr. Stanford delivered an " In no one instance, perhaps, was liis influence with the army so strikingly exemplified, as in his attack on the enemy at Tientou. O'er and o'er have I listened with intense anxiety, in the day of my boyhood, ■whilst my now departed sire, who fought and bled on that proud held, recited, with thrilling interest, all that related to the enterprise. It wiu on a December's night, (would he say) when our little heart-broken army halted on the banks of the Delaware. That night was dark — cheerless — tempestuous — and bore a strong resemblance to our country's fortunes ! It seemed as if heaven and eartli had conspired for our destruction. The clouds lowered — darkness and the storm came on apace. The snow and the hail descended, beating with unmitigated violence upon the supper- le-ss, half-clad, shivering soldier — and in the roarings of the flood, and the wailings of the storm, were heard, by iliucies ear, the knel of our hopes, and the dirge of liberty ! The impetuous river was fdled with floating ice; an attempt to cross it at that time, and under such circumstMnces, peemed a desperate enterprise ; yet it was undertaken ; and thanks be to God and Washington, was accomplished. " From where we landed on the Jersey shore to Trenton, was abont nine miles, and on the whole line of march there was scarcely a word uttered, save by the oti'icors when giving some order. We were well nigh exhausted, said he, many of us frost-bitten, and the majority of us 80 badly shod that the blood gushed from our frozen'and lacerate(i fe<;t; yet we upbraided not, complained not, but marched steadily and tirndy, though moiunfuily onward, resolved to persevere to the uttermost — not for our country — our country alas! we had given uj) for lost. Not for ourselves — life for us no longer wore a charm — but because such was the will of our beloved chief — 'twas for Washington alone we were willing to make the sacrifice. W^hen we arrived within sight of the enemy's en- campments, we were ordered to form aline, when Washington reviewed us. Pale and emaciated, disinrited and exhausted, we presented a most unwarlike and melancholy as|)ect. The paternal eye of our chi(;f was quick to discover the extent of our sufieriugs, and acknowlcMlgcd them with his tears: but suddenly cheeking his emotions, he reminded us tiiat our country, and all that we held dear, was staked upon the coming battle. As he spoke we began to gather ourselves up, and rally our ener- gies — every man grasped his arms more firmly — and the clenched hand, and the compressed lip, and tiic; steadfast look, and the knit brow, told tiie soul's resolve. Washington observed us well ; then did he exhort us with all the fervor of his soul, ' On yonder field to conquer, or die the death of the brave.' At that instant the glorious sun, as if in pro|)hetic token of our success hurst forth in all his s|)lendour, bathing in rupiid light the blue hills of Jersey. The liicps vviiich but a few minutes betbrf; were; blanched with despair, flowed with martial fire; and animalion. Our chief", with <'x\dtiition, haileil the scene; tiieu c:islin:r iiis doubts to the wind, anod of l)attles' and his faithful soldiers, led on to the charge. The conHi'jt was fierce and bloody h'or more; than twenty n\inutes, not n gun was (ired — the sabre and bayonet did the work of destruction, 'twas a hurricane of lire, ;ind steel, and death. Inhere did we stand (woidd he say) theie did we stand, ' f()ot to foot, and liilt to hilt.' with the serried iov I und where we stood we died or con(juered." NKW year's sermon. 107 aJtliess to the assembled multitude, adopting, as his motto, the text iii Acts xxii. 28 — ^^ I wan frcc-horn.'" The sul)stance of this address, with an account of the celebration, were published in the Trenton news- papers. The following Lord's day was spent in Philadelphia, where he preached in three diiferent churches. The last day in the year was passed at Lower-Dublin, in the society of the Rev. Dr. Jones, and a few other old friends, in praising God for his goodness to them (luring the past year, and for his cheering promise, that he will never leave nor forsake them that put their trust in him. The first day of the year 1S07, found 3Ir. Stanford still in Pennsylvania. In the morning he preached in the Rev. Dr. Jones' church, to a very large con- gregation, from Acts xxvi. 22 — " Ilaviiig therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day.'''' Upon this text he remarks : " With grateful emotions would I confess before men, the debt of love I owe to my good and gracious God, who has had patience with njy sinful heart and barren life so many years. O that by the same help, I may yet persevere, until the days of my pilgrimage on earth shall end !" In the evening he preached at Ilolmesburg, to a large assem- bly, on which occasion the Lord was |)leased to grant him special comfort in contemplating the words of David in Psalm xlviii. 14 — ^'For this God is our God for ever and ever: he luill be our guide even nnto death.'''' " This," said he, " comprehends all 1 want. May the liord enable me more abundantly (o claim this relation, ami may I trust him as my i"aithful and un- erring guide, through all the duties, trials, and changes of my future life." A short time after his return to New- York, he addressed the following letter to his Excellency, Governor RIoomlield, of IS'ew-Jersey : — .108 LK'ITEU TO GOVERNOR BLOOMFILLD. " MY DE\R .-Hi, " It gave me pleasure to hear, by Mr. Coles, that vourseir and family were in good health. lie ex- pressed your wish, that 1 should transmit to you a copy of what is called ' The Usurpation of Buonaparte.' You will find it enclosed. By this favourable con- veyance, 1 return you ' Solomon's Common Places.' On my first entering on the examination of the manu- script, I found some difhculty from the obsolete lan- guage employed, when compared with our present translation; but recollecting that the author might have used Beza's copy, and having that in my study, it gave me considerable assistance. I have examined all the texts, and find them generally correct; and where I thought it was necessary, I have made cor- rections with a black lead pencil. These are submit- ted to your judgment, and which, at pleasure, if necessary, you can easily erase. If in tliis trifling service I have answer(Ml your wishes, I shall be amply comj)ensated. Although Mr. Coles will tell you a httle about me, I shall take another dip of ink to say, that I go on in the old way. Last month, con- taining thirty days, I preached twenty-eight sermons, ^i'his, you will say, is enough for any man ; but you must know, good Sir, 1 am what some people call a ' general lover;' by which you will understand, that although 1 maintain with firmness the j)rofessions of what 1 believe to be the v,'ill of my God, in his gos- ))cl, yet I devote my public labours to all religious denominations without distinction. Indeed, I am the only minister in the city that can be called so far truly ' rtipublican.' To me it is a source of peculiar hap- piness, that I receive the attention of Baptists, Inde- pendents, Lutherans, Moravians, and others. I know you will not be angry with me for this liberality. Semper cail.i in, (always the sani(>) is my motto, |)reach wh«;re 1 /nay ; indeed it is all of a price ; for although I hav c j)rca<;l;<'d about three luind;<.'d sermons during LETTER TO GOVERNOR BLOOMFIELD. 109 this year, yet 1 have not received pecuniary compen- sation sufficient to purchase a pinch of snufF! " The winter progresses, and I shall not be able to venture out much in the evening. Having dis- missed your manuscript, and some other things of a similar nature, I must now, Deo volcnte, contrive something to employ my pen during the long evenings. 1 have thought of taking up some old lectures on theology, which I formerly delivered in Rhode-Island, and subsequently, to young gentlemen who have studied with me for the ministry, so as to make some- thing hke an easy text book for students in that department, and to be useful to young men who have not had the benefit of a classical education. " It is unnecessary for me to say any thing to your Excellency on the gloomy appearances of public affairs in our beloved America. I am no dabbler in politics. It better becomes me to teach men the way of salvation, and pray for universal liberty and peace. " My dear friend, you and I may never hve to see it, yet I am confident that every one of the human family will eventually say, ' I am free horn.^ *' Do me the favour of presenting my affectionate regards to Mrs. Bloomfield, Miss M'llvaine, and your nephew, Mr. Potter. Although I may not drink a glass of wine with you next New- Year's day, my prayer is, that you may * spend your days in pros- perity, and close your years in peace/ " I am, " Your's most sincerely, "JOHN STANFORD '' Neic-Yorh, December 2d, 1807." The following is Governor Bloomfield's reply. " Trenton, December 20th, 1807. *' MY DEAR .SIR, " Your favour of the 2d of this month, with your 10 110 LETTER FROM GOVERNOR BLOOMFIELD. good little pamphlet, (inultum in parvo) ' Solomon's Common Places,' and ' The Usurpation of Buona- parte,' in one envelope, were received of Mr. Coles yesterday. "Alderman M'lleeloy, last week procured for Mrs. Bloomfield, a copy of your excellent tract, which a good lady of her acquaintance requested as a present for a particular person, and she has been gratified with another copy by Mr. Coles. Parson P. Wilson called to see me yesterday, just after the reception of your packet. 1 took the liberty to mention the indus- try of a brother clergyman, who had preached one- third of a century; upon which Mr. Wilson said, that Mr. Stanford's publications had done much good, and that he was a very useful man ; in which Mrs. Bloom- field and myself very readily accorded. " Solomon's Proverbs and Ecclesiastes, contain stores of wisdom, a])plicable to every situation of life ; his maxims, digested and arranged by good Bishop Hall, if properly printed, might arrest the attention of persons who would not otherwise read the sacred books. " ' Usurpation of Buonaparte,' 1 requested Mr. Coles to purchase for me, and never intimated to him that you should have the trouble of ]irocuring it ; my message by him to you was, that ' Mr. Stanford will please to take his own time in the correction of Solo- mon's Common Places.' I am, however, not the less obliged by your and your son's attention ; and I am determined to seize the first opportunity of convincing you that I have not forgotten your Kiany favours. I hope to visit you when I pass through New- York, probably in .July. "Assure yourself, that I cannot add to the respect and esteem with which I am, " Very truly, " Your friend, and most obedient servant, " JOSEPH BLOOMFIELD." NEW-YORK ALMS-IIOIISE. ill Tliis, to Mr. Stanford, proved to be a year of unusual activity and interest. Tlie Bethel church in Broome- slrcct, which had for several years been in a declining- condition, imited him to preach for them as fre- (luontly as his other engagements would permit ; and it is believed that his labours in this congregation were not in vain in the Lord. March 2d, he was invited to preach in the Alms- I louse, where, for the first time, he was called to ad- dress an assembly composed of the sick, the lame, the blind, and miserable, of both sexes and of all ages. His text on this occasion was Phillipians iv. 11 — " / have learned in ichaisoevcr state 1 am, ihereicith to he content.''^ Interesting as this scene must have been, yet, could he have removed the vale which conceals the events of futurity, and anticipated the extensive and protracted services which God had appointed for him among these poor and afflicted creatures, he would probably liave shrunk from the task. But it is a part of the merciful arrangements of Divine Provi- dence, that " The morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof:' " God gives to every good man The virtue, temper, understanding, taste, Tiiat lifts him into hfe, and lets him fall Just in the very niche he was ordain'd to fill." >Several years intervened before 3[r. Stanford was called to be the stated preacher of tlie gospel in the New- York Aims-House, although he did not fail oc- casionally to visit, and proclaim the message of mercy to the poor. From the year 1807, until 1811, we are not informed that public worship was regularly main- tained in this institution; but in the early part of that year, a licentiate of one of the Baptist churches in this city, received an invitation from vVlderman Fur- man, to preach on Wednesday, Friday, and Sabbath 112 HIS FIELD OF LABOUR. evenings. A morning service was shortly afterwards commenced. These services vvere gratuitously con- tinued for nearly two years. During tiiis season, the Rev. E. S. Ely commenced his labours in the same place; and in the month of January, 1813, the Rev. John Stanford, and the Rev. E. S. Ely, vvere em- ployed by the society established for preaching the Gospel to the poor in the City-Hospital and Ahns- llouse. The Rev. Mr. Ely continued his services until June 1813, when Mr. Stanford received the exclusive appointment as chaplain of these institutions. His labours were subsequently extended to the State- Prison, Bridewell, Magdalen-House, Orphan-Asylum, Debtor's Prison, Penitentiary, Lunatic- Asylum, Black- well's Island, Marine-Hospital, and City-Hosj)ital, where he continued nearly twenty years to labour with ardent and devoted attention. It is gratifying to be able to say, that his ministry was blessed to the conversion of many souls; nor were these instauccs confined to the sick and the dying; but many, in all the vigour of manhood, and pursuing a course of the most blasphemous daring ; have been brought in tears to the feet of Christ, and have, after their emancipa- tion from bondage, recorded it to the honour of divine grace, that they were set free from the power of dark- ness; evenv.hile bound in chains, they listened to the gospel which he preached to them v. ithin the gloomy walls of a prison. Yes, the hardened culprit has been seen to shed the penitential tear, and the strong men have been constrained to bow the knee to Jesus, while, with treud)ling, they have cried out, " Jl/uit shall we do tube savcdT^ The young and the old, the sick, and those in health, have been blessed through his instrumentality. And while the living have thus become better jnepared to serve God, and to enjoy his mercies, the dying have caught the encouraging words of the gospel as they fell from his lips, and mingled their praises with the redeemed before the OBriTACLKS DID NOT IMPEDE HIM. 113 throne, as a testimony of their faith in the blood of the Lamb. It is no less true of John Stanford, than of John Howard, that as the friend and the pastor of the wretched prisoner, the orphan, and the miserable of every ckiss, " he trod an open but unfrequented path to immortahty," in the ardent and unremitted exercise of Christian charity; and it is devoutly to be wished, that this tribute to his memory may excite others to emulate his truly benevolent conduct. He officiated not in the splendid temples, where the charms of music, and the cushioned accommodation, invite a gay and ha[)py multitude; no, his duties led him to the dark cell of the criminal — his feet trod the floors where loathsome disease, and squalid poverty, and death prevailed; and where, but for his untiring fidelity, it is believed that many hundreds would have perished without the knowledge of Christ. No seve- rity of climate, no previous fatigues, no bodily pain, could prevent him, if it was possible, from responding to the calls of the distressed. We have seen him, under all the infirmities of seventy-eight years, and while enduring great bodily pain ; in the most op- j)ressive days of July and August, slowly directing his course to the Hospital, the Aims-House, or the City- Jail, there to administer to the spiritual wants of those whose temporal woes he could not alleviate. He seemed to have adopted as a motto the well-known maxim — " Hand ignara mali, miseris succurrere disco." The writer has frequently acconn)anied the vener- able man on errands of mercy to the poor, and from his mind, those interesting scenes will never be effac- ed. O with what eager attention did the children of sorrow listen to his voice, while with tears of gratitude they have been seen crowding around him at the close of the service, and, like a family of affectionate children, entreating him soon to return ! Yes, we 10* 114 GRATITUDE OF HIS HEARERS. have gone with him to the hospital, and witnessed the effects of the words of peace which he uttered in the audience of those who, but for him, would pro- bably never have heard the message of salvation. We have been with him in the lonely cell of the condemned malefactor, and seen the man of crime and of blood relent under his preaching, and thank the God of mercy who sent him thither.* The amount of service performed by Mr. Stanford, as chaplain of the above named Institutions, is be- lieved to be without a parallel in modern times. This fact would appear quite evident, if the reader could peruse the many folio volumes which he has tilled with the diurnal account of his labours. The nature of this work uill only allow us to intersperse a few brief * While writing the memoir of a Baptist minister, it is gratifying to quote the opinion of the British Cicero, respecting a hiymau of the same denomination, and whose hfe was devoted to the same cause — we mean the immortal John Howard. This wonderful man was born in the year 1726, at Enfield, in England. He was a member of the Baptist congre- gation in Little Wild-street, London, then under the care of the Rev. Samuel Stennet, D. D. To mitigate the sutTerings of the distressed in every clime, he travelled through England, France, (Jermany, Holland, Italy, Russia, Spain, Portugal, Sweden, Denmark, and Turkey. He died of a pestilential lever, at Cliurson, on the 20lh of January, 1790, in the sixty-fourth year of liis age. " I cannot," says I'dmund Burke, " name this gentleman (Howard) without remarking, that his labours and writings have done much to open the eyes and hearts of mankind. lie has visited all Europe — not to survey the sumptuousne.-s of palace.s, or the stateliness of temples ; not to make accurate measurements (d'the remains of ancient grandeiu', nor to form a scale of the curiosity of modern art ; not to collect medals, or collate manuscripts; — but to dive into tlie depths of dungeons ; to plunge into the infection of hospitids; to survey the mansions of sorrow and pain; to take the guage and dimensions of misery, depression, and contempt ; to remember the f.jrgotten, to attend to tlie nej;lected, to visit the forsaken, and to compare and collate the di.stresses of all n:en in all countries. Ili.i plan is oiiginal, and it i.j as full of genius as it is of hnmanily It was a voyage of discovery, a circunuiavigation of charily. Already the bonetit of his labour is felt more or less in every country, andIhoi)e he will anticipate his final reward by seeing all its ellects fully realized in his own. He will receive, not by retiul, but in gross, the reward of those who visit iJie prisoner, and lie has so forestalled and monopolized this branch of charity, tliat th(;re will be, I trust, little room to uierit by such acts of benevolence hereafter." — Svcvdt lU Brislul. vrctivus lo the election in 178a. A week's work. 115 extracts, by which the public may form some estimate of the loss which they have sustained in his death. The following- is a summary of a single week's work, of this eminent and faithful minister of Jesus Christ, and which is inserted in this place without reference to dates. " Tuesday — A discourse, &c. in the Lunatic-Asy- lum ; two others in the upper ward of the City-Hos- pital; after which all the wards are visited. '• Uc'dncudai/ — Visit the Orphan-Asylum, examine some of the children, and give them a discourse, &,c. ; go to the State-Prison, preach twice, visit the sick, and afterwards hear the young prisoners recite their catechism. " Thursday — Debtor's-Prison and Bridewell — a discourse in each; but in the former place I fre- quently meet with interruption. ^^ Friday — Bellevue ; visit the two Hospitals in the morning, and usually give a sermon in each; attend as many wards as possible in the front building: afternoon, preach in the Penitentiary, and examine the school ; directly after, give a discourse to the maniacs ; finish by examining the two Poor-house schools. " Lord^s day — At half-past eight, public service and a sermon in the City-Hospital. " After this I go to Bellevue, preach in the chapol in the morning; directly after,- preach to the state jjrisonersin the Penitentiary: afternoon, preach again in the cha|)el, and twice in the month examine the children in their catechism, in jiresence of the con- gregation; which has a good eHect. " When at the State-Prison, preach lu ice, and visit the prison hosj)ital. " All these places are visited oftcner when required by the sick. This is the usual couise of the week. " At'cragc oficcckltj discourses. — State-Prison three ; Aims-House five ; City-Hospital three; Orphan-Asy- IIG ABOUNDLNG IN THE WORK OF THE LORD. lum one ; Debtoi's-Prison one ; Bridewell one ; Pen- itentiary two ; Lunatic-Asylum one ; Maniac-Hospital one. Total eighteen. During the past year Mr. Stanford delivered five hundred and forty-seven sermons, and during the present year, down to the 28th of November, he has exceeded that number. Although the above statement very far exceeds the labours of ministers in general, yet even this was frequently transcended by this indefatigable man. That the above was not selected as a rare and un- common instance of his laborious zeal for the salva- tion of men, will be made to appear in the subsequent pages. His pulpit labours were very abundant, be- sides the ever varying scene of toil to which he was called, in catechetical classes, funerals, parochial visitations, &-c. ly impressed with the awful reality of the subject! He should go forth from the presence of the Lord, feeling the weight of the divine messages of truth, possessed of an ardent zeal for the salvation of sinners, and the increase of the visible church of Christ, and at the same time be very conscious of his own extreme unworthiness and responsibility to God." In August he took his annual journey to the south- ward, and visited Burlington, where he j)reached four times, and enjoyed much satisfaction in once more meeting his old friends. From thence lie rode to Philadelphia, and preached on the evening of the 24th, to a numerous congregation, in the Independent tabernacle, at that time the largest and most com- modious place of worship in the city. Several larger and equally elegant buildings have since been erected for the accoininodation of different denominations, especially the Circular Baptist meeting-house, in Sansom-street, which is ninety feet diameter, and will contain upwards of three thousand persons. During this visit Mr. Stanford preached to the church in Southwark, and in the absence of their j)astor, re- ceived seven jjcrsons into their fellowship by i)rayer and the laying on of hands, which is still the practice of the churches in the Philadelphia Association. 31r. Stanford also visited and preached to the churches in Holmesburg, Southam|)ton, Lower-Dublin, and Tren- ton; after which he returned to this city; not to rest, but to labour. GRATUITOUS DISTRIBUTION OF TRACTS. 125 October 20, being his birth-day, was spent ia hiuniliation, prayer, and thanksgiving; renewing the dedication of himself to the will and service of that good and gracious Cod, who had crowned his life with tender mercies. In the month of November, several ministers in the city agreed to establish a monthly lecture, to be preached alternately in their different places of wor- ship, as a means of promoting brotherly union and affection. Mr. Stanford was requested to deliver the first discourse, which he did in the presence of a large audience, from Psalm cxxxiii. This interesting monthly service continued for several years, not un- accompanied with the blessing of heaven. The last evening of this year he delivered a dis- course in the Moravian church, entitled "The Close of the Year, an Emblem of the Death and Burial of an old Friend," from 2 Corinthians v. 17 — '■^Ohl things are passed away.^'' This year was rendered memorable in the life of Mr. Stanford, by the re-publication of an evangelical tract, entitled " The Way of Salvation;" of which, by the aid of a few benevolent gentlemen, he was en- abled to publish, and gratuitously to distribute, chiefly with his own hand, another edition, consisting of five thousand copies.. If to stand foremost in the ranks of those who go about doing good, be indeed an honour, then to Mr. Stanford docs that honour belong in no ordinary de- gree. The following communications will show that he was probably the first person in New-York, if not in America, who made a systematic effort for the publication and circulation of religious tracts. In this important department, it will appear from the subsequent pages, that he continued to labour with great acceptance until near the close of his useful life. IX* 126 LETTER TO REV. WILLIAM HALLOCK. The following communications upon this subject, are inserted in this place without reference to date. " DEAR SIR, "Agreeably to your request, I send you the follow- ing statement of the origin of tracts in this city. In the year 1794, impressed with the utility of such paper messengers to the ignorant and the miserable, I sought the guidance of the Lord, and was assisted to compose a tract of eight pages, on ' The IVay of SalvationJ' I know not, that any Tract Society ex- isted at that time in America, nor that in any private way such papers had been distributed in this city by any person before. One thousand copies of this tract were printed at the joint expense of three private friends and myself, and by us distributed gratuitously. It is believed the Lord blessed this first eftbrt to many. " Shortly after this time (the exact date I did not record,) the Rev. Mr. Peters, of the Moravian Church, three private friends, and myself, associated ourselves for the purpose of forming a society for promoting Christian knowledge and piety among the poor and lower classes of society, by making and distributing tracts, (fcc; and it was likewise hoped, we should be able to procure Testaments for the same purpose. The plan was formed — all the ministers in the city, with otlicr pious persons, were invited to co-operate, and the work for a short time went on prosperously ; but circumstances soon occured which quashed the whole, and the Tract and Bible Society were left for other hands to form at a future period. " During the last war I published and distributed two small tracts at n)y own expense; one on ' Pro^ fane Swearing f the other, on ' The hnportanee of Social Vrayer, during the Calamitij of War.'' Both these were afterwards copied into several of the public papers, LETTER TO C. G. S. 127 " Oil the establishment of peace, I pubhshed a tract on ' The Lord's Dai/.' By the hberal aid of a few friends, five thousand copies of this tract were printed for *jratiiitous distribution. " 1 am, dear Sir, " Your's respectfully, " JOHN STANFORD. " To the Rev. William Hallod:" " DEAR C. G. S. " The tract I named to you, on ' The Way of Sal- vation,' printed about thirty-three years ago, was probably the first religious tract published in this city for gratuitous distribution. Dr. Peter AVilson, Gerret H. Van Wagenen, Henry Ten Broek, and others, aided the press; and since that time five thousand copies have been printed. " 1 enclose two copies of tracts; one on * The Lord's Dai/,' which, at the time, was well received, and a poetic commendation of it was published in the city newspaper by some unknown hand. The other, on ' Frofane Sicearing,' difi'ers from the tract in circulation, called ' The Siocarer's Prayer.' 3Iinc was intended to find its way among the higher classes of society. " ' The Directory to the Holy Scriptures,' for the use of prisoners, cost me much labour, and was pub- lished chielly at my own expense. One of the same description, for the use of hos{)itals and alms-houses, might do good. 1 have commenced one of the kind, for seamen, but it is not yet finished. " I have thought of two tracts, for which I have prei>ared some materials, viz. — ' The Lord of the Sab- hath Day,' and ' The Sclf-Dcslroycr.' Perhaps, if the Lord should helj^, I may put them together, and send them to your hand some time hence. " 1 am now finishing a piece on a subject which probably never entered into any other persons head* 128 SUB3IISSI0N TO THE DIVINE WILL. It is — ' Dozing before Sleep, exemplifying the lingering Death of ManJ' This would do for a tract, but I can- not spare it, as it is intended to occupy a place in my ' Aged Cliristian''s Cabinet.^ " This is a rough copy of a letter for you; but the truth is, I must send it, rough as it is — I have not time to transcribe it, for I must go to Bridewell. " Afiectionately your's, "JOHN STANFORD." *' January 1st. This is the Lord's day ! Another year has commenced. What events, duties, or trials may await me, 1 leave with my gracious Lord. May the duty and privilege of walking with God be mine, then let me welcome whatever may be allotted." Such were the sentiments with which Mr. Stanford commenced the year 1809. If God would only grant him a submissive spirit, that under all circumstances he might be resigned to the divine will, then, in the absence of applause, ease, or worldly interest, he seems to have been under no particular concern about the future. O how enviable is this child-like disposi- tion ; and no man can be more truly safe, than he who is willing to give up all for Christ's sake. True indeed, it is not the duty of any man to sell all that he has, and give it to the poor, because the Saviour commanded the young nobleman to do so; any more than he is under obligation to sacrifice his son, be- cause God commanded Abraham to do so; and yet these were written for our instruction, that, as the creatures of God, we might be prepared, at any mo- ment, to obey the severest calls of Providence. From the habitual resignation of his mind, we are left to infer, that this was a subject, in the experimental knowledge of which, Mr. Stanford had made great attainments. The first Sabbath in February was his regular sea- son for preaching to the inmates of the State-Prison ; THR FACETIOUS DUTCHMAN. 129 but his health ami animal spirits were extremely de- pressed, and a severe storm of snow, hail, and rain, accompanied with high winds diirini^ the night, gave him but little expectation of being aljle to fulfil his engagement. At an early hour in the morning, the snow covered the ground to the de|)th of nearly twelve inches, and he had no means of conveyance.* " Never- theless," he remarks, " in the fear of the I^ord, I commenced my walk, and with much difficulty tra- velled about half a mile. In endeavouring to gain a better path, I suddenly fell into a (lee|) drain, which was covered with snow, and sunk nearly to my hips. It was not without considerable dilliculty 1 was ex- tricated, and pursued my way to the Prison ; my outward garments were so much frozen, that the keepers were obliged to remove them. After resting half an hour in a warm rootn, I ventured into the chapel, and performed divine worship with some gra- cious assistance. Often has this day's service oc- curred to my recollection, and as often excited my gratitude to the Lord for his kind preservation." After the services in the chapel were ended, and he was passing through the middle hall, to visit the sick prisoners in the hospital, Mr. llauman, who is a foreigner by birth, and one of the keepers, stood at the back door with the key in his hand, and pleasantly offered him a pinch of snuff. After the usual saluta- tion, the following dialogue ensued : — " Sir, vot use you come here to visit dis wicked people?" " I re- jilied, that my heavenly Master made it my duty to visit the sick, and es|)ecially those who are in prison." " Den," said he, " let me ask you, vot use it be for de rain to come down upon de ocean, de sea be full * It is due to the Christian kindness of the gentlemen composing the Board of commissioners of the State-Prison, I5('llevne, &c. to say, that during tiie hitter years of Mr. Stanford's ciiaplaincy. he was generally provided with the coaciies belonging to these public institutions to convey him to and from the places where he had appointed to preach. 130 ORDINAION OF REV. DA.NIEL SHARP. enuif of vaiiter v'uloiit it." " Expressing a degree of surj)rise at the intention of liis question, lie immedi- ately proceeded" — " Sir, I vill tell you, dere be von ship go along pon de sea, vich be vont of vauter, an de sailors de be ready to die op dirst; de no trink de vauter out of do ocean. By and by de see cloud, an de rain begin to come down ; den de sailors spread deir sail on de deck, de katch dc rain-vauter; de do trink, an den de go on lifely. So you come to dese poor wretches — you spread de sail — de rain of Got's blessing come down, an den de drink an be glad. So, Sir, I vill now open de door, an you may spread your sail." " Thanking Mr. If. for his remarks, I passed through, to tije hosjntal, with a design to spread my sails of instruction and prayer, in the pleasing hope that some mercy-drops from above might descend, to refresh the souls of the poor prisoners. I have often indulged pleasing reflections upon this little incident, as conveying to me valuable instruction. For, as the mariner can only spread the sail, it is the Lord alone that can raise the wind, or give the gentle rain ; so I can only spread the gospel sail of instruction, and wait for drops of mercy from above, to grant the de- sired blessing." It was about this time that he commenced writing his second series of lectures for the benefit of theolo- gical studctits. These lectures have since been de- livered, with great advantage, to successive classes ; and may in due time be given to the public. On the 17th of May, Mr. Stanford assisted at the ordination of the Rev. Daniel Sharp,* at Newark, in New-Jersey. The services were i)erformed in the first Presbyterian church, in the presence of a large and attentive audience, to whom Mr. Stanford de- livered the introductory address. * The pre.soiit iisoful and beloved pastor of the Charles-streot Baptist church in Boston. A PAINFUL ACCIDENT. 131 III the month of Auiirust lie a<^ain visited 3Iourjl- Pleasant, wlierc he preached nine times; after whicli he rode to Peekskili and York-Town, wliere he also preached to the people, the imsearciiablc riches of Christ. On the second Lord's day in September, he preached four times, and administered the Ijord's siip}>er twice. This extraordinary circumstance arose from the fact, lijat he preached to two churches, whose conmiunion Sabbath occurred on the same day. In tiie month of November, the bone of his left leg was severely injured, which partially confined him during the remainder of the year, and prevented hi?< preaching more than once on each Lord's day, and then only by being, with great care, conveyed to the place of worship in a carriage. Thus can the Lord " weaken our strength in the way," and teach us submission to his will. In a note upon this provi- dence of God, the good man remarks — " May this occurrence afford mc a lesson on the importance of improving my time, and stimulate me to future exertions in the service of the Lord." This visita- tion, though very painful, was not without its use, as it gave him greater leisure for the private, but not less important duties of the closet. On the 31st ofDccember, he has the following note in his diary : — " This is the last day of the year: to me, though extremely ill, and my leg very painful, this is a day of many mercies. I have found the cxix Psalm, 4f)th verse, peculiarly interesting to my mind: ^Remember the icord vnlo lliy servant, upon vhich ihuu hast caused mc to hope.'' O that I may constantly rearize the faithful promises of my God, and possess that faith which shall enable me to ex- tract from it, encouragement and strength for duties and trials in private and public life, and thus be strong in faith, giving glory to God. The evening was sncnt in revicwinir the many scenes and mercies 132 E.SSAY ON WALKING WITH GOD. of the past year, and attempting to consecrate my body and soid to Christ Jesus ; that whatever maybe my future lot, I may walk with God, until I step out of time into eternity." The opening of the year 1810, found Mr. Stanford confined at home by indisposition of body, but sweetly employed in meditation, prayer, and thanksgiving to God ; and in endeavouring rencwedly to devote himself to the Lord, and to his service in the gospel. " My public labours during the last year," he remarks, '* were not altogether in vain in the Lord; to him therefore would I ascribe the glory, and humble my- self before him in dust and ashes. May I hencefortli be assisted by the Spirit of his grace to know, feel, and preach the gospel, with more fruitfulness for the conversion of sinners, the comfort of believers, and the glory of his name." After a confinement of two weeks, he again ven- tured to ride out, and was assisted to preach twice. In the afternoon he experienced so great a degree of physical and mental weakness, owing to his recent indisposition, that he w^as under the necessity of cur- tailing his discourse. But in the evening he says: "I was more favoured — such occurrences teach me how much I need ])ower and jicrpctual influences from abcvo. May the Lord visit my mind and heart, if not With a co()ious shower of his grace and mercy, yet with the gentle dew of his love, that I may bear some humble fruit to the honour of his name, and the benefit of his peo|)lc." During the month of March, he finished an essay on " Walking with (iod." The jirincipal design of which seeu)s to have been, to stimulate his own soul in the practice and enjoyment of this high and invalu- able privilege. Upon this subject he remarks: " I am taught, by painful experience, both to know^ and feel, that it is easier for me to tralh in a profession, and ivnlk to church, than to iralk sensibly and humbly SUDDKX ILLNESS. 133 \\\t\\ my God. O my hard and unfeeling- heart — often may 1 read this piece, and may the Lord, by his Spirit, produce the desired effect."* On Lord's day, July 8th, he preached a discourse at the opening- of a new house for worship, under the ministry of the Rev. Archibald Maclay. The text was Psalm cxviii. 25 — " O Lord, I beseech thee, send now prosperity.''^ The congregation was very large, and appearances indicated a high state of spiritual and temporal prosperity. This month he finished an essay on " The Abrogation of the Old Covenant, and the Establishment of the Ncvvv" The investigation of this subject appears to have afforded him much pleasure, and his essay has since been read with great profit by others* About the latter end of the month, while on a visit to a minister in the city, he was suddenly taken so extremely ill, that it became necessary to convey him liome in a carriage. Upon this event he remarks: •' How important it is to listen to, and improve such unexpected warnings. I know that my good Lord sends them to arouse my sluggish heart. Be it mine, * A similar instance of humble self-detraction, arising from an exalted view of the spirituality and glory of the divine character, is recorded of <':ie of Britain's most enlightened and devoted prelates. A friend of Ar?hbishop Usher, frequently expressed a wish that he would write an essay upon the subject of sanctification. With this re- quest he at length promised to comply. After the lapse of several months he was again importuned, and at the same time remindedof his promise. The bishop replied — " I have not written, and yet I cannot charge myself with a breach of promise ; for I began to write, but when I came to treat of the new creature which God fornietli by his Spirit in every regenerate .*oul, I found so little of it wrougiit in myself, that I could speak of it only as parrots, or by rote, without the knowledge of what I might have ex- pressed, and therefore I durst not proceed any further upon it." When his friend expressed his surprise at hearing so eminently holy a man making such a confession, the bishop went on to say — " I must tell you, we do not well understand what sanctitication and the new creature are. It is no less than for a man to be brought to an entire resignation of his own will to the will of God, and to live in the offering up of his soul continually in the flames of love, as a whole burnt-offering to Christ; and O ! how many who profess Christianity are unacquainted expert- nisiltallv with this great work upon their souls!'' 12 134 LETTER TO CAPTAIN \V. therefore, by his heavenly grace, to improve every such visitation, knowing tliat in the midst of life I am in death, and therefore need both an actual and an habitual preparation for my last change." While thus deeply exercised for the spiritual im- provement of his own heart, he was not unmindful of the moral Vvants of others, as will appear from the following letter, addressed to Captain J. W*****, on his making a profession of religion. " DEAR SIR, " Having obtained mercy to acknowledge the power of Christ in the conversion of your soul; and having in the most public manner devoted yourself to the service of the Lord; the next thing is, for you so to conduct before the world, that they may take know- ledge of you, that you have been with Christ and learned of him. I shall therefore offer you a few lines of advice, sincerely wishing, that, under the benedic- tion of God, they may be useful to your soul, and enable you to walk worthy of God unto all well pleasing. " In order to the enjoyment of God, you must be earnest in prayer. Prayer is the opening of the heart to God, expressing our wants, and receiving supplies from his hand. Ever depend upon the influence of the Holy Spirit to direct your petitions, and upon the intercession of Christ for their acceptance. The more you cultivate a holy intercourse with God in private, the more heavenly minded will you be in public. * It is good for mcy said David, ' to draw 7iear to God;^ and this is true of every believer in Chdist. " Let me entreat you, my dear brother, often to review the late mercy of God to you, in your conver- sion; this will increase your humility and gratitude. The more you reflect on your former dark and sinftd state, the more humble and thankful v.ill vou bo. LETTER TO CAPTAIN W. 335 DdviJ sang, ' To him that remembered us in our ioio eatate, for his mercy endnrcth for ever.'' " Guard against tlic rising of your old sins. Re- member th'jy are neither dead nor destroyed, and may at some time or other arise in your heart, and strive to break forth in your hfe. Tiie old body of sin dies very hard ; it will bear more blows and wounds than young professors are aware of. Therefore, on the appearance of any of your old passions, fly to God by prayer, and beg for his grace, which alone is sufficient, and that sin may not have dominion over you. *' As God hath mercifully owned you by his grace, I earnestly recommend you to erect an altar for God in your family. Family prayer is a duty, and a very great privilege, especially when performed with an humble and believing heart. David strove to walk within his house with a perfect heart — Jacob taught his household, and commanded his children. And the most high God hath said, that ' He uill pour out his fury on the families that call not upon his name.'' May you, my brother, in attending upon this duty, enjoy the richest blessings of God upon your own soul, and in the conversion of every member of your dear family. " With respect to your outward profession and conduct before the world, you will need the greatest circumspection. I have not a doubt but that many of your old companions in sin, will watch your steps, and await your halting, that they may triumph over you, and reproach religion. Remember, that one improper word, or one false step, may be magnified into a great crime ; therefore, watch and j)ray, that you enter not into teinj)tation. I know that from your former con- nexions, and your present standing, you need more than ordinary vigilance. I must recommend you to cherish an affable disposition of mind, that no one may be induced to charge your i)rofcssion with mclan- 136 TRACT ON THE LORO'ti DAY. choly. Who ought to be more innocently cheerfLii, than those who are redeemed by Clirist, and have a hope of eternal bliss? If, at any time, your old inti- mates converse with you on your change of life, let your answers be firm, but chastened by humility and gratitude; and forget not to honour the grace which hath produced it. Some may probably try to irritate your temper, but I hope you uill be upon your guard. Like David, ' Set the Lord alicaj/ before 1/02/, he in'll be at your right hand, and you shall not be moved.'' He who hath taken you out of the miry clay, and set your feet upon a rock, will most certainly establish your goings. " Like the king of Israel, you may derive strong encouragement to trust for future supplies. ' Thy vows are upon me, O God, for thou hast delivered my sold from death : nilt thou not deliver ?ny feet from fall- ing, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?^ Thus may God help you to enjoy the com- forts and the honour of religion. Deeply impressed "with a sense of the divine presence, may you ever keep your garments unspotted from the world, and let your light shine before men. Live upon Christ, and the brightness of his glory shall be your portion for ever. *' Your affectionate friend, " JOHN STANFORD. '' July 24.tli, 1810." On the IGth of December, Mr. Stanford finished a tract on " The Observance of tlie Lord's Day," one thousand copies of which were afterwards i)rinted for gratuitous distribution. The flagrant profanation of the holy Sabbath in this city, at the time when this tract made its appearance, stajnped it with an im- portance, the amount of which it would be difficult to compute. 15y all who lamented the desecration of the day of rest, it was welcomed, as the warning voicu HISTORY OF J. II. 137 of God totlieening multitude; audit is believed that tliis opportune production exerted a salutary and re- strainini*- iulluence over the minds ot" many. Mr. Stanford continued his assiduous labours for the moral improvement of the unhappy inmates of the State-Prison, and generally visited the sick in the j)rison hospital on Wednesday afternoon of each week. These services were eminently blessed of the Lord to the conversion of souls. This proposition will receive further elucidation from the history of J II . " This young person," says Mr. Stanford, " was very ill of the typhus fever, and little expectation was entertained of his recovery. He was sensible of his situation, and with much anguish lamented the errors of his life. The recollection of his pious parents, who doated upon him, added keenness to his sorrow. I endeavoured to impress his mind with a sense of his depravity and guilt, in the sight of his offended God; and at the same time explained to him the necessity of an interest in the atoning sacrifice and intercession of the Lord Jesus. He sighed, and expressed great api)rehension that his case was too desperate to admit of relief. At his request I prayed for him. • Oh,' said he, ' I wish 1 had read my Bible; my conscience accuses me, and I am more wretched in mind than in body. Oh! how have 1 neglected to profit by my early education, and how distracted would my parents be if they knew I was about to die in my sins!' 1 directed him to Jesus, the friend of sinners, who is able to save both body and soul. He replied, ' I know that Christ is ' the icay, the truth, and the life;'' but then he is not such to me, and I fear he never will be my Saviour.' This gave me the opportunity of further explaining to him the tender mercy and compassion of the blessed Jesus, and I assured him that there never had been an instance, or ever would be, that Christ would in any wise cast 12* 138 HISTORY OF J. H. out the penitent sinner who came unto him. I further instructed him concerning the office of the Holy Spirit, to give him faith, and abihty to come to Jesus for the enjoyment of pardon and peace; and that this work of the Spirit was as necessary to be produced in him, as the work of Christ was, to atone for our sins. To encourage his prayer for this blessing, I assured him that God had promised to give his Spirit to them that ask him. ' Then,' said he, ' I will pray for the Holy Spirit, and I hope you will also pray for me.' " Lord's day, December 2-3d. After morning ser- vice in the chapel, this young person sent for me in haste. On entering his room he said, ' O, Sir, the physician has informed me that, at most, I cannot live more than two or three days. This I received as my death warrant ; the shock however continued but a short time. God has visited me in mercy, and I really feel in my heart, that peace, through the blood of my Saviour, which I would not exchange for all the gold in the world ! I now want to tell you a little of my short life. " 3Iy parents are pious, and possess a great deal of property. I am their only son, and they brought me up religiously, and gave me a good education. When I was about twenty, they set me up in business, and I was foolish enough to take a man as a partner, who deceived me, and wasted my property. I was afraid to tell my parents, and at a trying moment, 1 com- mitted that oftence which brouglit me to this i)lace of misery.' After weeping abundantly, he then pro- ceeded: * At the sad time of my sentence, my mother came to see me. The sight of my misery overcame her — she fainted and fell upon my chains. Under the recollection of these troubles, if 1 die, do let my parents know tliat I ask their forgivcncs, and that 1 depart from this world in possession of pardon and peace in my blessed Saviour. The fear of death is gone; his terrors do not make me afraid.' Percciv- HISTORY OF J. n. 139 ing this exertion too much for him, I offered prayer and retired, not expecting to sec him again in this vale of tears. " December 26th. Inquiring if J II was dead, was happy in being informed that his fever, contrary to all expectation, had taken a favourable turn, lie stretched out his hand for me to embrace it. ' I feel,' said he, ' like a new man in a new world; I attribute this relief to God only, for the physicians had given me over. O that my life may be devoted to my Saviour! When my dear parents hear of this, it will be a balm to their troubled hearts. I am now almost covered with sores, so that 1 can hardly turn in my bed: but O! what arc these when compared to my sins, and to the great mercy of my God. Now, Sir, let mc once more thank you for your attention to me, and do once more pray for mc and my parents.' " The health of this young man was iiap{)ily re- stored. 1 afterwards conversed with him frequently, and he maintained a lively hope in the Lord Jesus. His conduct was so exemplary, that in a few months he received his pardon, and returned to the embraces of his affectionate parents." CHAPTER VIII. MR. STANFORD INVITED TO SETTLE IN S.WANNAII VISITS THE STATE-PRISONS IN NEW-JERSEY AND PENNSYLVANIA, BY SPECIAL REQUEST OF TUE COMMON COUNCIL HE RE- CEIVES AN APPOINTMENT AS CHAPLAIN TO THE PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS IN NEW-YORK RELINQUISHES ALL HIS PREVIOUS ENGAGEMENTS. Wii'H the commencement of tlie year 1811, Mr. Stanford, as had long been his practice, made a special request of the liOrd, to grant him some particular text of Scripture to direct and animate him through the year. Upon this subject he remarks: " The word of the Lord, impressed uj^on my mind as a directory for this new year, is Psalm Ixxi. 16 — ' / uill go in the strength of the Lord God: I icill make mention of thy righteousness, even of thine only.^ And, in what strength else can I go in the midst of temptations and sorrows, but in that of the Lord my God; and what else shall be the subject of my preaching, but the righteousness of God by faith in Christ Jesus the Lord.^ In his strength therefore may I persevere, and in his righteousness may I be found living, preaching, dying, and at the judgment seat of the Lord Jesus." Like the pious Dr. Young, he could say, Christ is " ]\Iy thcnic, my insjiinition, and my crown, ]\Iy slrcngtli in age — my life in low estate — My soul's ambition — ploasiuc — wealth — my world — My light in darkness — life in death — My boast in time — bliss through eternity — My sacrifice — my (jod !" On the first Sabbath ho preached twice in the State- Prison chapel, after which he visited a dying female DIVINITY STUDENTS. ' 141 prisoner, and lial about twenty of her forlorn asso- ciates assembled in the ward. The sick womaii ap- peared very sensible of her miserable slate, and her need of an Almighty Saviour. After directing hei to Jesus, the Lamb of God, he addressed the company present with good eftect, and closed the visit with prayer. On the 8lh of January, Mr. Stanford received a class of eight divinity students, of whom he says: — " I pray the Lord to make me useful in directing their minds into the greater knowledge, harmony, connection, and application of divine truth ; that thereby they may become more able ministers of the New Testament, and more useful to the church iind the world." Of the class here alluded to, only one has been cal'ed to give up his account unto God; and it is gratifying to be permitted to state, that he died in the work of the Christian ministry, and in the triumph of faith. Three of the survivors are now preaching the gospel with success in the state of New- York, and the remaining members of the class arc idling stations of importance in the churches cf Christ. In the month of April, he received a message, by a gentleman from the Baptist church in Savannah, wishing him to come and settle with them as their niinister; but impressed with a lirm persuasion tiiat CJod had fixed the place of his habitation, and blessed him in this city, he immediately declined the |)roposal. In the month of August, Mr. Stanford visited Pennsylvania and New-Jersey, by the particular re- quest of the Common Council, for the purpose of ex- amining the condition of the State-Prisons, and with a view to improvements in the New- York State- Prison. A similar service was performed in J 821, of which a particular account may be found under that date. In company with Mr. Joseph Price, one of the in- spectors, he passed through the institution in Phila- 142 TRACT ON PROTANE SWEARING. delphia, aiul made notes on the construction of the building, the government of the prison, the articles manufactured, and sucli other subjects as appeared to be worth}' of particular notice. On his way home, he spent a day at Trenton ; and in company with his old friend, his Excellency Governor Bloomfield, he visited the State-Prison of New-Jersey, for the same purpose, and having satisfied himself in viewing the institution, taking notes, &c. he delivered a discourse to the prisoners in the afternoon, and in the evening a lecture to the Baptist church at l^amberton. The following evening, by request of Dr. Clarke, the Presbyterian minister, he delivered a sermon in his pulpit, and on the following day returned to his habi- tation in peace. Thus did he once more exjjerience the fulfilment of that gracious promise — " The Lord is thy keeper : the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this tivie forth, and even for evermore.''^ Psalm cxxi. 5, 8. In the month of October, Mr. Stanford wrote an able dissertation, on " The Laying on of Hands," but, as it was never published, it would seem that the chief design of this composition, was, to furnish his own mind with what tlie scri|)tures say on the subject. About the same time he published his excellent tract on " Profane Swearing ;" a large edition of which was gratuitously distributed among the lower class of the communily. The subjoined letter to Dr. II*****, \s another evidence of his zeal for the salvation of men. " DEAR i\. II. " 1 regret, that at picsent, my engagements arc such as to prevent my making you freipient visits. Notwithstanding, you are remembered in my prayers, that it may please God to bless the means emj^loycd for your recover}, or, if he has otherwise determined, LETTER TO DR. 11. 143 that you may enjoy adequate support and consolation. The love of life is natural to all ; but, in the bloom of years, and surrounded by the brightest earthly pros- pects, the desire proportionably increases. When, therefore, sickness or afflictions overcast our sky, it cannot but produce very painful emotions. 1 know of but one ade(iuate remedy for this case. It is, a cheerful resignation to the divine will, from a per- suasion that he pardoneth our sins, and that he de- signethour present and future benefit; or, if you wish the recipe in other language, you have it in Psalm xlviii. 14. " A quack doctor may make up a prescription pre- sented to his hand, without knowing the properties of the drugs, or the nature of the disease, which the medicine is intended to cure ; but, a well educated physician, will endeavour to understand both, in ordcv to secure his success. You will, I sup[)ose, admit, that there are quacks both in the profession of medi- cine and in divinity. I am only the Physician's ser- vant ; lest, therefore, you should think nae a quack, I must describe to you the component parts of my prescription. It consists, " 1st. In a persuasion that God pardoneth our sins. This pardon is the principal ingredient, because sin is our mortal disease. If we analize this, we shall find that li contains J us/ ice, 7nerc^, •andlove. Koi pro- duced by the abstract benevolence of the Deity, but found only on the hill of Calvary, througii the suffer- ings and death of the Son of God. The sovereign efficacy of this arises from the appointment of God — its perfect correspondence with the re(|iiiromentNS of liie law which we have violated, and its ada|)tation to our wretched condition as sinners. ISow, there is no other book but the Bible, which reveals this remedy; and the greatest care ought to be taUen to explain its nature, because the life of tlie patient absolutely depends upon it; and, however valuable and eftica- i44 LETTER TO DR. If. cions in itself, tlie patient has the most astonishing aversion to it, until he is convinced he must surely die. " Does not my reason tell me, that I must bear the punishment due to my own sins, or, that I must he indebted to the mediation of another ? Certainly ; even if there were no Bible, common sense would teach me this lesson. " 2d. The next ingredient is, * A cheerful resigna- tion to the divine will.' This will most charmingly incorporate with the former drug, if I may so say, but, without it, it will have no effect: for t must first know that God forgivcth my sins, before I can with cheerfulness resign myself to his will. But, if I am persuaded of this, I may say, ' This God is my God, for ever and ever ; and he shall he my guide, even unto death.'' In prosperity or adversity, in sickness or in health, my temper, conduct, whole life, shall be directed to the honour of my God and Guide. " JNow we take the last, which sweetens all the rest — A full persuasion that ' lie designs my present and future felicity.' All things shall work together like the different drugs in a medicine, administered by the great Physician, for my good— to save my soul — comfort me in sorrov/ — preserve me from evil' — suj)|)o>t me in death, and bring me to immortality and glo^y ! Such is the comfort whicli the gospel reveals ; and my prayer to God for you is, that you may abundantly enjoy it. " A\'cll, 1 have got to the end of my paper, and yet, you know something more is necessary. You always |)ut a labi;l upon the ])hial to direct the patient how to take the contents ; but as for me, I am only the poor servant of the great Physician, yet 1 will pray my divine Master to make you a visit, and administer lo you the cordial of salvation. " Sincerely your's, '• J01L\ 'i^TANTORD. "' March Slh, 1811." Interesting incident. 145 On the first Lord's day in November, a pestilential fever made its appearance in the .State-I'rison, which rendered it necessary to convert the cliapel into a hospital. In consecpience of this arrangement, Mr. Stanford consented to preach in hall No. 5, at a con- siderable distance from the seat of the contagion; but his visits among the sick and dying in the hos- pital, were unremitted and faithful. Like the praiseworthy Howard, to whose magnanim- ous philanthropy we have before alluded, our indefati- gable Stanford did literally relinrpiish his own ease, to visit the abode of the wretched who were destitute, and '* hound with fetters of iron.''- Few of those who have adorned the Christian Church in any age, have been more willing to expose themselves to danger, that they might free others from it, or to enter the gloomy cell, that they might inspire a ray of hope im- mortal in the breast of the disconsolate captive. He lived and died in the noble cause of Christian bene- volence ; and though no sculptured monument will convey to posterity the history of his disinterested and pious labours, yet his memory is embalmed in the grateful hearts of those for whom he toiled; and his imperishable fame will survive the wreck of every mausoleum, save that, where works of righteousness are had in everlasting remembrance. About this time, Mr. Stanford, meeting with Mr. E. J. W******, in Wall-street, who, judging from the thread-bare appearance of his garments, that a new suit would be acceptable, invited Mr. S. to step into a merchant tailor's shop opposite. After they entered, Mr. VV. remarked to the tailor that he had called for the purpose of requesting him to decide a point upon which there was some doubt, viz.— who was the largest man, Mr. Stanford or himself. They were accordingly measured, and nothing more was said upon the subject. The following week a new suit of clothes was brought to Mr. S. accompanied 13 146 LETTER TO MR. E. J. W. with an anonymous note, requesting his acceptance of them. When relating this circumstance to the writer, he remarked, with his usual |)leasantry, " Well, what could I do but pocket the aftront I" Letter to Mr. E. J. W****** " iMY DEAR SIR, " In some measure I can say with Dr. Blair, that ' Gratitude is one of the sweetest emotions of the hu- man soul.' And the word of God declares, that they who are unthankful are unholy. Allow me, therefore, to present to you my very affectionate thanks for your valuable and generous donation. Most sincerely do 1 desire that God, in the unbounded riches of his grace, may clothe you with those vestments in which his people are arrayed, and with them may you appear at the throne of mercy, and eventually be exalted to the throne of glory. What these garments are, you are informed in Isaiah Ixi. 10. As sinful crea- tures we have lost our moral robe; we cannot appear before the throne of God without shame and punish- ment ; and, although our first parents, conscious of their guilt, covered themselves with fig leaves to con- ceal their transgression, yet the eye of God discovered and brought them to confession. Thus docs every child of Adam endeavour, in his approach unto God, to clothe himself in his own righteousness. Nor shall we be undeceived, until God addresses us in language similar to that in which he spake to Adam — ' Simier, where art iliouT Then shall we know that our souls are naked, and seek for refuge beneath the cross of Christ. The Lord, in mercy, I hope, has thus dis- covered to us our sinful deformity, and tiuit our own righteousness is as filthy rags. Thanksgiving and praise be unto the Lord, that, in his wardrobe we find a complete suit of garments, arrayed in which, we may approach unto God with confidence at the LETTER TO MR. E. J. W. 147 throne of grace, and eventually be accepted at the throne of judgment. " These garments, Isaiah describes; and in the language of Paul, wearing them is denominated a ' putting' on the Lord Jesus Christ,'' whom Jeremiah triumphantly proclaims, ' The Lord our Righteousness.'' I will therefore take the words of Isaiah, and from what little I know of these sacred garments, offer you a short description ; and, at the same time, add my fervent prayer, that you and your's may know them better by liappy possession. ** If you cast your eye upon the words, you will perceive that there are two garments provided, and that they are ornamented with jewels. These garments are adapted to a marriage, and with these the Church is adorned; and we are certain that the possession of them will never fail to create joy and rejoicing in the hearts of all who receive them. The garments, I said, are two: the first is an inward, and the other is an outward robe, which covers the whole. The first is called Hhe garments of salvation,'' and comes near- est to the heart. This was made by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ upon the cross : — ' We have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins ;^ without this, we could have no hope of salvation. The outer robe is called ' the robe of righteousness,' and is com- posed of the meritorious obedience of the Son of God. This was so pure and spotless, that it is called * the righteousness of God, tchieh is unto all, ami upon all them that believe.' It is, indeed, the best robe which the Father can give, or the returning prodigal receive. " The chief desire of Paul, when he was an old man, was this: — That he might ' be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, tchieh is of the laiv, but that which is through the faith (f Christ.' These constitute the basis of our hope! If they could be taken away, we must for ever perish, beneath the frowns of divine justice. 148 LETTER TO MR. E. J. W. " It is worthy of attention, that the same God who in mercy provides these garments, must put them upon us, for by nature we are attached to our filthy garments of the flesh, and are at enmity against tiie free and fall salvation and righteousness which is in Christ. Therefore Isaiah says, ^ lie hath clothed me." The same God who provides the garments, I said, puts them upon us, or we should remain unclothed for ever. This makes salvation, from first to last, to be of free mercy and grace, and enables us to say, ' Christ is all and in all J' " These garments are highly ornamental. They are beautified with the brilliant graces of the Holy Spirit, so that the possessors, by their temper, life, profession, experience, and general conduct, adorn the doctrine of God their Saviour in all things. There are some who seem to possess the gift of many spiritual jewels, by which they become highly useful in the world, and in the Church. In life, such Christians contribute much to the moral benefit of their fellow-creatures, and materially promote the cause of Christ, by their humility, benevolence, for- bearance, patience, and love. Concerning these gar- ments, I may safely say, they will never wear out ; and the jewels themselves, though sometimes a little of the dust of worldly-mindedness may conceal their beauty for a time, yet their intrinsic excellence will ever remain; and God is not wanting in means, by the brush of affliction, to make them sparkle again. *' Isaiah seems desirous to impress upon our minds, that this exquisitely rich dress, is a wedding dress. The bridegroom is Christ, his bride is the Church ; and, as according to the ceremony of Jewish mar- riages, there was first a betrothment ; so also when the Father chose his people, and gave them to his Son, there was an espousal; after which the parties are brought together ; and thus it is at our conversion; which will be followed by the public HIS DESIRE TO BE USEFUL. 140 marriage that is to take jjlacc at the first resurrection. At that august scene, in the language of David, ' the king^s daughter is all glorious ivithin : her clothing is of wrought gold. She shall be brought unto the king in raiment of needlework.'' Psalm xlv. Or, according to Paul, ' lie loi II present it to himself a glorious Church, not having spot or 7vrinklc, or any such thingJ* Ephe- sians v. O that you and I may rejoice in hope of the glory of God ! " For the abundant goodness of God, in clothing him with the garments of salvation, Isaiah could not but say, ' / u:ill greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall he joyful in my God:'' and shall we not join in the sacred anthem? In our temper, profession, and conduct, at home and abroad, let us magnify the exceeding riches of divine grace,^ for what we have received through Jesus Christ our ascended Lord! Very great and precious promises are given for our encouragement, confirmation, and joy, in prospect of immortality. " To the gracious care of the Saviour, I commend you and your's, and conclude myself, " Your obliged and aifeetionate ft-iend, " JOHN STANFORD. «' November loth, 1811." From this, until the close of the year, Mr. Stanford continued in the untiring prosecution of the duties of his chaplaincy. The regions of worldly gratification possessed no charms sufficient to allure his contem- plative soul; while his peaceful labours were blessed with the usefulness for which heaven had appointed them, he was but little concerned wlio might wear the diadem of earthly greatness, or wield the sceptre of human power, or gather the deathless laurels of literary glory, and fill the world with their fame. If he could but witness the triumphs of the gospel, and behold penitent sinners returning to the Saviour^ la* 150 WALKING BY FAITH. and the kingdomof Christ extending; then his happi- ness seemed to be complete. In this respect he was favoured with no ordinary measure of enjoyment. Nevertheless, during the last week of this year, the good man seems to have experienced a temporary mental depression ; but even in that condition, we recognize the man of God " icalking hy faith.''' This is apparent from the following note in his diary: — *' My mind is far from being in a desirable frame, whether to review or improve the events of the past year ; but I will cast myself into the hand of that God who has thus far directed my steps through this gloomy vale of tears; and pray that in future he would dispose of me and mine, in that way which shall best promote his glory." Thus did he, like the pious John Newton, declare, even in view of antici' pated trials— " Though dark be my way, since he is my guide, 'Tis mine to obey, 'tis his to provide; Tlio' cisterns be broken, and creatures all fail, The word he has spoken shall surely prevail." With similar sentiments does he appear to have commenced the year 1812. *' All I can say is. Lord, dispose of me according to thy good pleasure ; be my guide in life, grant me a peaceful end, and receive my soul at last." A prisoner being desirous of expressing his grati- tude for the jireacliing of the gospel, wrote a Latin letter to Mr. Stanford, which he enclosed in the fol- lowing note to the superintendent of the Prison. *• INDULGENT SIR, ♦' Permit me, through the medium of yourself, to present the Rev. IMr. Stanford with a New-Year's gift. The friendly and disinterested manner in which he has so frequently addressed us, has impressed me, A LATIN LETTER BY O. P. lol and I sincerely believe many others, with a deep sense of our obligations. 1 am not authorized to address him in behalf of the prisoners, though individuals cordially assent, but beg leave, in the commencement of tlie New-Year, to give him a small token of our gratitude. The mode may appear novel. 1 have written it in Latin, not with a view to exhibit a spe- cimen of an imperfect and much impaired education, but merely to pay a just compliment to Mr. Stanford's superior understanding. For your own personal convenience, I have annexed to this a translation, as literal as the peculiar idioms of the two languages would permit. There are undoubtedly many imper- fections; but Mr. Stanford's well known goodness encourages a hope that lie will view it with candour. " Notwithstanding the gratitude I feel for Mr. Stanford, it is not confined to him alone. You, Sir, hold an equal claim. For the numerous instances of your past kindness, I wish you, on this occasion, a re- storation of your health. May you liberally enjoy the blessings of the New Year. May you long live to enjoy conjugal and paternal felicity. May the lives of those sweet babes, who daily delight you with their innocent prattle, be prolonged; and may they become ornaments to society, in whose future prosperity you anticipate the joys of your old age. *' AVith sentiments of gratitude, I subscribe myself, " The unfortunate, " O P . " To Nicholas Roomc, Esq.^^ " ANNI NOVI DONUM. " Reverendissimo JoHA'S^i Stanford, Ariium Magis- tro, TheoIogi(E Doctor i, hominumque amico, cum diffi- dentia, dedicatiim est. " Si liceat, mc miserum, in carcere ^lausum, et ignomlnia circumtectum, te salutare ; mcmor anni prseteriti, multorumque tuorum labor urn ad illumin- 152 THE TRANSLATION. andas nosti-um mentes imperitas, tibi beneficia divina rogo. Tui conatus, in consolandis mcerentibus, tra- hendisque animis ad peccantium Servatorem, gratias poscunt. Non niihi verba sunt, quibns mentis moi cogitata eniintiare. Non blandltias, sed verum loquor. Est tibi siiavitas in niodo lofiuendi, qufe miserinios solatLir, et benignitatem dicentis perspicue indicat. Diini corpus dolore languescit, animum cum evangelii alimento nutris. " Ut cera dura igne calefaciatur, ita tuis sermoui- bus corda obstinata ad accipienda veritatis divinae vestigia parantur; atquc, dum mens in dubio errat, viani, ad telicitatem oeternam monstras. " Pro tuis officiis benignis, quibus snepissime politi sumus, prosperitatem tuam, hoc anno novo augeri, setatemque longam in terris teconterere, precor; at- que, quando vitam mortalem relinquas, Dens ad sii- peros te accipiat; ibi, adjunctus beatis, Dei Agnique laiides in seternum modulare. " Ita precatur, " o p ." " Jamiarii primo die, annoqiie Domini 1812."* * To the original paper the writer of the above elegant and classical couipoHilion sulijoined a note, by which he altered a word to avoid tauto- logy. Thiscirciunstance, trivial as it may seem, is an additional evidence of his critical scholarship, and furnishes abundant proof, that intellect, far above mediocrity, is required in the man, who either as a missionary or stated preach(>r, woidd minister with acceptance in a state-prison. The following is a translation of the above letter; — " A NEW YEAR'S GIFT. " With diffidence addressed to the most Reverend John Stanford, Master of Arts, Doctor of Ditiiiify, and tUcjricnd of man.* " If it be proper for mc, a wretch, confuied in a prison, and clothed with disgrace, to greet yon; contemplating the events of" tfie past year, and your numerous endeavours to instruct our ignorant minds, I wish you the blessings of heaven. Your lalwurs in consoling the wretclied, and drawing souIh to the Saviour of sinners, demand our thanks. I have not words wherei)y I can express the feelings of my heart. Not flattery, but the truth I apeak. There is a suavity in your manner of speaking, which gives comfort to the most miserable, and plainly indicates the humanity • "Tho EnBliiiti rondrr will rcnif ruber that tills is titc usual stjlf of address, wlueli was used among lUc polite Uonans-" THE DEBTOR:^. lo3 It was (Imini*- this year that Mr. Stanford coni- jnonced his labours of Christian benevolence amongst the unfurtiinate inmates of the Debtor's-Prison. When he was invited by Mr. Bell, the humane and generous superintendent of this institution, to give them at Icasr one sermon on each Sabbath, his soul responded to the call: " Yes," said he, " I will go, and freely pro- claim unto them the acceptable year of the Lord! What am I but a debtor? a debtor to God's law, and a debtor to his grace ! Let this fact deeply impress my heart, while most cheerfully I devote a portion of my time for the rehgious benefit of these poor debtors to man!" In this good work he was not long permitted to labour in vain. On the 21st of May, he was called to visit a poor dying prisoner, to whom, according to his own account, the Lord had been pleased to impart the grace of life, through the instrumentahty of Mr. Stanford. Death had now lost his terrors, and the joy of God's salvation supported his soul in prospect of eternity. lie said: — " 1 would not part with my hope in Christ, for all the gold in the world!" And having uttered this triumj)hant declaration, he fell asleep, to wake no more until the archangel's trump shall call the slumbering dead. In the month of July, Mr. Stanford received a communication from the Board of Inspectors of the of the speaker; while the body languishes through grief, you nourish the soul with gospel food. " As hard wax is rendered soft by fire, so by your discourses stubborn hearts are prepared to receive the impressions of divine truth ; and while the mind wanders in error, you point out the way which leads to eternal happiness. " For your kind services, with which we have so frequently been favoured, I pray that your [)rosperity may be increased this year; that you may live long here below ; and when you quit this mortal life, may God receive you to the mansions above, wliere, joined with the saints, vow may for ever exalt the praises of God and the Lamb. " Thus pravs, " O-^- P ." 154 SERVICES UxNREVVADED. State-Prison, in which they expressed their thanks for his services to that institution, and requested the continuance of them. It is due to 3Ir. Stanford tosay, as to the pecuniary compensation which he received for services in the pubHc institutions of this city, that it was the plea- sure of attempting, in the name of the Lord, to do good to the souls of men, and not the hope of emoUi- ment, which induced him to persevere in this labori- ous work. Tliat Mr. Stanford was influenced by no sinister motives, is too obvious to admit of a doubt. More than twenty years did this faithful minister of Christ render his services, w'ithout an adequate compensa- tion, and under almost every variety of discourage- ment. The scorching beams of noon, and the chilling WMnds of night, were alike unheeded ; neither the ingratitude and wickedness of many of those for whose salvation he toiled and prayed, nor the growing infirmitcs of old age, prevented him from attending to their spiritual wants. Such unwearied diligence is generally rewarded with an equivalent; but it was otherwise in the present case. The average amount of his compensation, during the above mentioned period, never exceeded five hundred dollars per an- num ; and at the time when his engagements with " The Society for the Support of the Gospel among the Poor in the City of New- York" terminated, by its ceasing to exist, the institution owed him more eighteen hundred dollars — not one dollar of whicl ever been paid. His diary for this }'ear shows an a\'crage of seven sermons preached each week, which, if considered in connection with the extraordinary amount and variety of his other services, will leave him no superiors, and but i\i\\, if any, C(pials, in modern times. After his usual private devotions, and " renewing his covenant with Cod," (which was his custom at the L»y its 1 than Nw^ 1 has — ^^ MAGDALE.N-ASVLUM. 155 coiuiueticcmentof eacli year,) Mr. Stanford began his labours for 1813 by preaching a discourse to the Bethel Baptist Church, from Psahn xxxi. 14 — " il/y times arc in thy hand.''^ Whether his choice of this text was by the special direction of heaven, or not, we are unable to determine; but this year was attended with many important changes, which seeni to consti- tute an important era in the history of his useful hfe. In the events which follow, we see the unfoldings of that mysterious Providence, which constrained him to remain in New- York, notwithstanding repeated solicitations to take the pastoral charge of distant and wealthy congregations. The duties evidently assigned to him by the Lord this year, as to import- ance, extent, and variety, have seldom if ever de- volved upon any one person. January 7th. Tiiis day Mr. Stanford received an application from a society, recently established, for preaching the gospel to the poor in the City-Hospital, and in the Aims-House, requesting him to relinquish his academy, and devote himself wholly to those insti- tutions, in connection with the State-Prison, Debtor's- Prison, 6cc. 6ct. This being a subject of great im- portance, he requested time to seek direction from the Lord. A Magdalcn-IIouse having been established at Greenwich, 3Ir. Stanford was solicited to preach to the unfortunate females, with which he cheerfully complied, in the presence of a number of the mana- gers, both ladies and gentlemen. His sermon was from 1 Timothy i. 15 — " Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.''^ During the several years continuance of this establishment, he regularly and gratuitously preached thegosj)el to the inmates, every Wednesday. February 3d. While taking his rounds in the State-Prison hospital, he found four prisoners under 15G CONVERSION OF J. W. C. very serious impressions of mind. They appeared to have a deep sense of the sinfuhiess of their hearts, and their need of mercy from the Lord Jesus. Their subsequent conduct afforded strong reasons to hope that they had been made partakers of divine grace. Conversion of J. W. C , a convict in the New- York State-Prison. 3Ir. Stanford says, " This man had been confined to his bed a considerable time. I had repeatedly spoken to him, but he appeared indifierent to conver- sation. However, about a month ago I told him how much I myself stood in need of mercy from the Lord, the friend of sinners. This seemed to awaken his attention, and he said — ' Sir, if you need such mercy, how much more do I need it ?' *' February 3d. He appeared more sensible of his guilty state, and asked me several questions on the subject of salvation, which I endeavoured to answer in aj)plication to himself. I left him apparently seek- ing the Lord. " February 10th. He wished to ask me a few questions. The principal one was this — ' Whether a man, enjoying the pardon of his sins, by the blood of Christ, and a hope for heaven, could afterwards perish.^' 1 replied, No; admitting that the man did really possess them. For God's work is perfect ; he never did deceive the good hope of any soul ; but the hope of the hypocrite, that shall perish. A j)erson merely professing these things, might, and would, sooner or later, by temptation, abandon them, and pursue a course of evil. He answered, * I have been much troubled on these subjects, but I now see that God must save from first to last, or it would be no salvation at all.' I then stated to him the importance of praying for the teaching of the Holy Spirit to direct his mind, and reveal salvation to his heart. God has promised his Spirit to them that ask him. CO.WERSIOM OF J. W. C Idlf " February 21st. When I approached his bed, and inquired after the state of his lieaUh, he turned his now serene countenance towards me, and said, ' lam well, and mv mind is reheved. Since Friday evening; I have enjoyed that peace and comfort which I Yiever knew before. I wish all my fellow-prisoners felt the same. O, Sir, I longed for your visit, that I might tell you of the relief I feel. I hope I can say, God is my salvation ; I can give him my body and my soul, as the objects of his merciful care, whether he permit me to live, or send death to take )ne away. 1 hope to praise him in heaven for all his mercies to me, a poor miserable sinner.' " IMarch 3d. * I continue to enjoy much peace,' he remarked, ' and look to the Lord to keep me. I know I cannot keep myself — my health is better, but I give my body and spirit to the Lord, that I may be his for ever. This is the only desire of my heart.' *' 3Iarch 7th. He appeared not so cheerful ; yet lie said, ' I know the Lord has done much for me, and I cannot but praise him. I am anxious for every man iiere. I pray God to convince them of sin, and lead them to the Saviour.' *' Soon after this he so far recovered, that he went into the workshop, under an impression that a change of air and moderate exercise might contribute to restore his health. In this situation he continued for about nine months, during which I had frequent conversations with him. Eventually his constitution gave way, and he returned to the liospital. It soon became evident that he could live but a very short time. On my entering the room I found him much engaged with God for the experience of more grace, that he might be assured of an interest in the Re- deemer. The nature of such assurance 1 endea- voured to explain to him from the word of God, and encouraged him still to hope and pray for the blessing. When I was about to prav with him, he said, ' Sir, 14 153 HAPi'Y DEATH OF J. W. C. do not pray for the life of m}' body, but pray for the life of my soul.' After prayer he expressed his fear that he might die before I visited him a^ain ; but assuring him that in case he should he worse, I would make* him a sjiecial visit, he expressed his warmest gratitude. " September 19th. While at the City-IIospital the carriage was sent for me, to attend this man. 1 proposed to him several questions. The following is the substance of his answers : — ' I have been a great transgressor against a just God all my days — I have no Jiope for another worhl, but from the atoning blood of the Son of God — I liave not now that peace and comfort I had some time ago — I want to feel God's love in my heart — Though I am so uncomfort- able in my mind, I cannot, and by his grace helping me, I will not give up looking to Christ Jesus as the only Saviour — I leave the time of my death to the Lord ; I wish his will to be done, and not my own — Lord, speak peace to my soul, I want nothing else.' *' September 21st. He said, ' Since you were here last, I think I have had some relief in my heart. I now know that the peace, comfort, and hope which 1 enjoyed son)e time ago, were not imaginary ; and I V)elievc that God will give me assured peace again before I die, for he is faithful.' This day 1 visited him three times, and he very aflectionatcly took leave of me in such teiins as delicacy forbids me to record. He died shortly after my departure, rejoicing in Christ." After Mr. Stanford had closed his sermon in hall JN'o. 5, one of the state prisoners, formerly a lawyer in , familiarly called " Ned Craig," was at liis own particular request, permitted to propound a doc- trinal question to the preacher. Among tlie indivi- duals present, were several prisoners who formerly SATAN AND NED CllAIG VANQUISHED. 159 ranked liigli in the learned professions, and one who fiad occupied the chair of professor of languages in a university. " Pray," said he, " liovv can you reconcile the general invitations of the gospel with the doctrine of a particular election?" iMr. Stanford, turning to those present, replied — " These gentletnen know, that it is not customary to teach children abstruse doctrines in any science, until tliey have first learned their grammar. I am no polemic, and preach to you the plain gospel ; but you must learn the A. B. C. of divinity, before I shall at- tempt to explain the subject of your inquiry." This pungent reply to an impertinent question, propounded not with a view to improvement, but for the purpose of embarrassing the preacher, aftbrded great satisfaction to the other prisoners ; and one of them wrote the following lines on the subject. " GOSPEL DOCTRINE TRIUMPHANT; OR " SATAN AND NED CRAIG VANQUISHED. " While Stanford preacli'd the gospel pare, Which does to Christ our hearts allure, The Devil felt it such a plague, He enter'd into poor Ned Craig. " Poor Neddy, prompt with hellish pride, And ignorance too, in rolling tide. With meagre loolvs, and visage thin, Satan without, and hell within, " Advanc'd towards the sacred desk, (Ignorance and pride were all his risk,) And did our parson there attack. With Satan's message, Neddy's clack. " The parson answcr'd, all discreet. That he polemics did not meet, And wish'd poor Ned to stop his clamour, Aud study close the school-boy's grammar. 160 BRIDEWELL. " Our rev'rend parson did o'erthrow Satan and Neddy, thus in Co. : And tiius to Satan and Ned Craig, Christ's doctrine is an endless plague. '' Poor Ned, sans sense, sans gospel light. Loaded by Satan, challenged fight With him who's fill'd with gospel lore. And riches, an eternal store. " Good Stanford's doctrines he can't shock; They're built on an Eternal Ilock ; But Neddy's are but hay and stubble, Just like himself — old Satan's bubble. " O, Lucifer! receive your son! You've loaded him as your pop-gun, And now you're out of ammunition, You're both cojisign'd unto perdition!" In the month of March Mr. Stanford wrote an address to the religious part of our citizens, on "The Importance of Social Prayer, under tlie present Calamity of War," which was published in several of the newspapers, and afterwards, in the form of a tract. On the ^Bth of this month he preaclied his first sermon in the Bridewell, from Acts xiv. 7 — " There ihey preached ike gospel. ^^ The unhappy females are said to have conducted with much proj)riety, and some of them were observed to be in tears. Wednesday, April Cth, Mr. Stanford visited the State-Prison hospital, where he observed a man at the end of one of the rooms sitting up in his bed and beckoning to him. On approaching the unhappy creature, he burst into tears, and entreated the mi- nister of Cod to j>ray with him. His subsequent conversation made it very evident that lie was earn- estly seeking the Lord, for the salvation of his soul. The evening of this day was spent in the Bapti.st church in Vandam-street, where Mr. S. delivered a CONVERSION OF R. 161 solemn and impressive charge to tlic minister elect, and to the congregation present, at the ordination of the Rev. Mr. Hastings. The day following Mr. Stanford was taken very ill, and continued under medical treatment for several days. In the meantime the prisoner before men- tioned died of a malignant fever. " This occurrence," says Mr. S. " deeply impressed my mind with the importance of setting the Lord always before me; that amid the imminent dangers to which I am daily exposed in my visits to the sick and the dying, I may myself be prcjiarcd to meet my Saviour, whether he come in the evening, at midnight, or in the morning." The conversion of R . "When," says Mr. Stanford, " I first visited him, 1 was much surprised to find he was so seriously dis- posed. He said, ' I have but one desire in this world, and that is, that I may have an interest in Christ, as my Saviour and my friend. O, Sir, I wish you would inform me how I may obtain and know that I have indeed received this inestimable blessing.' I ex- plained to him this text — ' Hcrchjj ice knoio thai he divellcih in us, and we in him, h\j his Spirit, which he hath given unto us.'' 1 also explained to him the office of the Holy Spirit, to convince the sinner of his need of Christ, and then to reveal him to the contrite in heart, and to speak pardon and peace. He thanked me, and earnestly begged my i)rayers, that he might obtain mercy through Christ. " The next time 1 visited him he was very low, all he could say was, ' [ am constant in prayer ; I want to know that the Saviour is mine, and that I have an interest in his death, and then my death will be easy and happy.' '• A few days after this I asked him, if God had revealed his mercy to him. He said, ' O yes, Sir, I now think I have a knowledge of that interest in 14* 162 A PRISONER IN CHAINS. Christ which I wanted.' His tears appeared to be those of joy. " When 1 visited him for the last time, he was only able to utter the following short sentence : — ' I have an interest and peace in Christ.' " A prisoner (a French Roman Catholic,) in tiie opposite bed, was also very low. With this man 1 had conversed several times, and he appeared very thoughtfid about a future state. Last week Mr, Roome asked this man if he wished to see his j)riest. He said, ' No ; Mr. Stanford has told me all I want to know.' '■ About an hour before R died, the jiower of speech returned, and he spoke so loud that he could be heard in every part of the hospital. He j)Ossessed great composure of mind, and departed rejoicing in the Saviour." The following lines were composed by a convict in the State-Prison, on beholding a prisoner entering the middle liall in chains : — " All! mournful wretch, thy sad unjiappy fate. Draws from my eyes the briny pitying tear ; Thy clanking irons do thy case relate, While keen sensations thou art doom'd to bear. " I ask not from what source thy troubles rose, Nor the recital of thy tale of grief; I look at mine, as well as others woes, And give my al! — a tear for their relief " If tears could wash the stain of sin away, And cancel all my follow pris'ners guilt, I'd weep from morn to eve, from eve 'till morn. Nor cca«e 'till every trevnbling drop was spilt. •' But all in vain the tear for tlice might flow, Nought can avail to sooth the sorrowing heart ; No joys or pleasures now our bosoms know, With all Uiat'rt social we are call'd to part. HIS FIKLD OF LABOUR ENLARGED. 1G3 " Yet may we all submissive be, aiul trust To Him who hears tlie uiouniiug pris'ner's sighs ; And well rememl)er, He is over just, And lends a list'uing ear to all their cries. ' J • P ." Tlie services of Mr. Stanford in the State-Prison ^vcre not only gratuitous, hut \\ithout any distinct appointment until the year (1812,) when the legis- lature of this state passed an act for j)roviding a chaplain to perform religious services in the State- Prison. Immediately after the passage of this law, Mr. Stanford was unanimously elected to tiiat office by t!ic IJoard of inspectors, and continued as the able and indofatigiiblc minister of (Christ in that institu- tion, until its removal from this city to Sinar-Sing, in 1828. Having souglit the guidance of the Lord, by con- tinued prayer for direction, on the subject of an in- vitation from a socicly of genllemcn, to relinquish his academy, and take upon himself the ministerial charge of the City-Hospital and Alms-Housc, Mr. Stanford, on the 20th of June, 1S13, resolved, in de- pendence upon the grace of God, and \vith the advice of some his most pious and judicious friends, to relin- fpiish his academy, which alfordcd him a competent support, and devote himself lo the Lord in this im- portant work ; at the same time, resolving to beconte a missionary of the cross to the poor and miserable of the city, wherever he might find them ; on the 30th of the same nionti), therefore, he relinquished his academial engagements, after having been in this einploymcnt nearly thirty-six years. A transition so remarkable, at iiis advanced age, could not fail to excite emotions, which language was too feeble to express, and which nothing but a strong sense of duty could have enabled him to overcome. Never- theless, his accustomed and holy submission, undcj- all the changing scenes of life, assisted him to accommo- 164 A STRANGER ON THE EARTH. date his feelings to the varying dispensations of heaven. We have often contemplated Mr. Stanford with admiration, as " a stranger on the earth," not only with respect to his transient condition, but in the dis- position of his mind. As to the vanities of this world, and all unfounded hopes of changeless bliss below the skies, he appeared to us like the royal David, whose soul was " even as a iceaned child.^'' Did the Almighty, in his inscrutable providence, tear from him the wife of his youth? Have his children fallen one after another, by the stroke of death? Like Aaron, he " held his jjeace.^^ " / leas dumh,^^ says the psalmist, " and opened not mi/ mouthy because thou didst if.^^ Yes, he has been seen, like Job, standing upon the ruins of temporal prosperity, and exclaiming — " The Lord gave, ami the Lord halh taken away ; blessed be the name of the Lord.^' j" My times of sorrow and ofjoy Great God, are in thy hand ; My choicest coiuforts conic from thcc, And go at tiiy command. " If thou shouldst take them all away, Yet would I not repine ; Before they were possess'd by me, They were entirely thine. " Nor would I drop a niurm'ring word, Though the whole world were gone ; But seek enduring happiness In Thcc, and T/ice alone !" O how necessary to the enjoyment of true happiness is a humble spirit of submission to the will of God! In the ignorance and pride of our hearts wo are prone to misjudge the my. terious dispensations of heaven. " A Providence occurs," says an able writer, " it strikes us, we endeavour to explain it — but are wc certain that wc have seized the true meaning ? Per- ZENO AND .SLMXA. 165 haps what wc tiikc as an end, may be only the way ; what we take as the wliole, may he only a |)art ; what we deprecate, may he a hlessing; and what we most earnestly "pray for, may prove to be a curse; what appears confusion, may be the tendencies of order ; A\ hat looks like the disasters of Providence, may he the prcj)aration of its triumph." It is related of Zcno, that when, by a shipv>rcck, he was deprived of all his wealth, he openly declared, that he considered it to be the best voyage he had ever made, because the loss of his money had driven him to "the study of virtue and philosophy."' "What then must be the ad\ antage of those temj)orary losses and afflictions, the tendency of which is, to wean the Christian from the love of this present evil world, and compel him to " seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God." •' I only want to know your will," said Seneca, when speaking to God, " as soon as 1 know what that is, I am always of the same mind. I do not say you have taken from me, that looks as if I were unwilling ; but that you have accepted from me, that wiiich I am ready to offer." As Christians, let us not only emu- late, but endeavour to excel these noble-minded hea- then, under the ordinarv changes and calamities of life, CHAPTER IX. HE COMMENCES HIS CHAPLAINCY IN THE CITY-HOSFITAL LABOURS IN THE UNITED STATES MILITARY-HOSPITAL PUBLISHES A CATECHISM VARIOUS SERVICES TO THE END OF 18 U. July 1st. Lord's day. At eight o'clock this morning, Mr. Stanford preached his first sermon, as the re- gularly appointed chaplain, in the City-Hospital, from Psahn xli. 3 — " The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing : thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.''^ Blind George, from the Aims-House, con- ducted the singing with his accustomed animation. On the morning of the Tuesday following, he visited the institution, conversing and praying witli the patients in twelve of the wards, as their cases appeared to require. After returning home, he made this note in his diary: — " O my Heavenly Father, how great the tenderness, compassion, and faithfulness, which will be recpiired to perform such visits with propriety and success : all my hope i^ in the Lord!" The following quotation from his diary, presents another instance of the laborious services of Mr. Stanford as a minister of the gospel, worthy of that good cause to which he had devoted the energies of his useful life. It is due to his memory to say, that this is not selected as an uncommon instance of his untiring zeal, but rather as a specimen of what fre- quently occurred in the discharge of his ministerial duties. " Lord's day. Morning, at half past eight, preached in the City-Hospital, and afterwards prayed with a sick patient. Preached in the State-Prison chapel at MILITARY lIOSriTAL. 167 ten o'clock, and visited the sick in the prison hospital at noon. Preached ag'ain to the pri.-onors in the attcrnoon, and immediately walked to the JMagdalcn- Ilouse, and preached another sermon, and in the evening preached in the Alms-Housc. The Lord graciously assisted me this day in these five sermons, and other duties; and as the heat iras al. eigltiij-sevcn, I am the more thankful for his aid, and hope a bless- ing will succeed my feeble eftbrts." On the following Thursday, after performing an equal amount of ministerial labour, he walked to the United States Military-Hospital, about half a mile from the prison, where he was kindly received by Mr. Jones, ihe superintendent, anere both broken, and his eye and jaw most dreadfully injured. With this man, ?iL-. Stanford had an interesting conversa- tion, as also with two of his shipmates then present, who had witnessed the accident, and recited to him the attending circumstances. While he was speaking to the patient of the sjiaring mercy of God to him, and showing how great was that love which pre- vented his being dashed into an awfid eternity, his companions appeared much aflected. even unto tears. IGS GRATEFUL SAILORS. There is perliaps no other spectacle upon the earth more hiteresting than to seetiie liardy sons of the ocean melting and \seeping- under the sound of a preaciied gospel. They have heard, unmoved, the foaming bil- lows roar, and the maddening battle thunder has failed to alarm them. But the voice of mercy pos- sesses an energy, which mere human bravery has no ability to resist. To these men, as well as to the sick, Mr. Stan fori! stated the necessity of an interest in the pardoning blood, and renewing grace of the Lord Jesus, to prepare them for death and eternity. When it was proposed to return thanks to God for preserv- ing the life of their friend, they expressed their ap- j)robation in a singularly pleasing manner; after which, with all the frankness of warm-hearted sailors, they gave him a hearty shake of the hand, and re- turned him their thanks. After this interview, he accompanied the matron, for the first time, to the ward appropriated for un- fortunate females. One young woman was in a very deplorable situation, and it was with great ditliculty he could understand what she said, as her criminal course had nearly destroyed the power of speech. During the conversation, in which 3Tr. Stanford faith- fully described the dreadful condition of her soul, he discovered the names of her parents, and knew thcnj to be people of great rcsj^ectability. This unhappy young woman had been seduced into the paths of vice, by one of those monsters in human shape, who, under the guise of affection and flattering promises, too fVe- (piently, alas ! in an unguarded moment, succeed in destroying for ever the virtue and the |)eace of their nn.-;iis|)ecting and too confiding female victim. 'J'hursday, the 18th, Mr. Stanford visited eleven wards in the Alms-Ilouse, and conversed with a num- ber of very sick and aged j)eople. Nearly all of them Avere desirous to iiave worship |)erfornied in their respective rooms. As far as possible to gratify this* A MAGDALEN RECLAIMED. 169 wish of the aged and iiifirii), he made arrangements lo continue the Lord's day evening lectures, alter- nately in the two lower wards, adjoining the hall; and on Tuesday evening to perform divine service in the upper rooms. It may not be improper to say, that at these services, especially on the Sabbath evening, a number of respectable citizens fre(picntly attended. Blind George always conducted the singing; for which Mr. Stanford allowed him a small compensation. Inscrutable are the ways of God — his judgments are unsearchable. Mr. Stanford had no sooner re- turned from the Alms-House, and sat down to dinner, than he was seized with a violent fever, which con- fined him to his chamber for many days, and left but little hope of his recovery, nevertheless, the Lord delivered him from death. As soon as he became convalescent, he accepted the affectionate invitation of his tried friend, Divie Bethune, Esq. to spend a few days at his country-seat. This desirable change of air proved highly beneficial, and in a short time he was again enabled to visit the sick in the State-Prison hospital. This he was the more anxious to do, that lie might converse with J. R , who had recently become much distressed about the concerns of his soul. On the following day, though with great difficulty, he walked to the Magdalen-House, and conversed with one of the unfortunate young women, who was in great distress of mind. This individual was, it is hoped, subsequently restored by the Lord to the paths of virtue and godliness. If so, O how great the satisfaction which such an event must aflbrd those benevolent individuals who originated the institution! Monday, the 2d of August, he thus remarks: — " The public institutions not recjuiring the whole of my attention to-day, I visited several, what I call, out-door patients. One was the widow of the late Captain Dobson, who was blown up with the vessel 15 170 HAPPY DEATH OF J. R. called " The Little Teazer." I found her, as ex^ pected, almost overwhelmed with grief; but she re-* ceived my instructions with cordiality, and earnestly requested a repetition of my visits." Thursday, the 5th. In the morning he performed divine service in the Magdalen-House, and in the afternoon, attended the sick in the State-Prison. J. R , the penitent prisoner was very low, and could just say, so as to be heard, " My heart is happy, trusting in my God." IMr. Stanford prayed with him for the last time — he died that afternoon, rejoicing in the hope of eternal life. While in the City-Hospital, on the 12th of August, Mr. S. was requested to visit a young man, who was supposed to be dying. An aged person, said to be his father, was sitting by his side, and when Mr. Stanford inquired of the patient the state of his mind, the old man interrupted him by saying, " My son does not want any one to speak to him." To this 3Ir. S. replied, that he came to discharge his duty to the sick in the hospital. After a few minutes of silence, the father very abruptly replied, " I do not believe that God made any of his creatures to damn them." '• My friend," said Mr. S. " I do not mean to enter into controversy with you, but I am fully persuaded that we all have sin enough to condemn us." At this the sick young man twisted the corner of his blanket round his head, and refused to hear any more upon the subject. It w as afterwards ascertained that the father and son were both confirmed deists. In another ward he found a young man approaching death, who was very sensible of his sins, and im()lored the mercy of God. So true is it, that God hath *' mercy on ichom he will have mercy, and nliom he icill he hardeneih^'' by leaving them to follow their own delusions. The following Sabbath he preached in the morning at eight o'clock in the City-Hospital, and at half past DREADFUL CONSEQUENCES OF INFIDELITY. 171 ten intlic Stale-Prison. After sermon lie visited two men who were chained to the floor, in one of the gloomy cells of the prison. One of them appeared penitent; bnt the other was apparently as hardened as his chains. Before leaving this horrible place, ho faithfully admonished the criminals, and having di- rected them to the blood of Christ for pardon, he closed the interview with prayer to God for their salvation. In the afternoon he preached, and administered the Lo/d's supper to the church in 3Iulberry-street, and in the evening he preached in the Aims-House. On the 17th of August, Mr. Stanford made the fol- lowing note in his diary : — " This has been my visiting day at the City-Hospital. Was informed by nurse P. that the deistical young man whom I visited a few days since, and who was accompanied by his father, died last night. She said, * Sir, he died like a coward at last, for a little before he departed he said, ^ Idont know but that I have been mistaken, and that God is now going to punish me for my sins.'' Does not this case demonstrate, that although men may profess to be deists — reject the Bible — and despise the mercy of the Lord Jesus when danger is afar off, yet death will undeceive them f" I>at why does any man reject the sacred volume, and dare to venture into eternity without a guide ? Is there no sublimity in'its style; no purity in its precepts; no evidences of truth stami)ed upon the pages of its history ? Have patriarchs, and prophets, and apostles, and martyrs, lal)0uretl, and suffered, and died, under a delusion ? AVere such men as Sir Isaac Newton, 31ilton, Young, and millions of the wisest and best of every age deceived? Were they incompetent to an enlightened investigation of the ditKculties with which the proud sceptic imagines that he finds revelation invested ? Few men can be found who will venture to answer in the affirmative, 172 THE HATRED OF AHAB. Why, then, do men ojjpose or reject Christianity, and hazard tlie tremendous consequences of tlieir unreasonable conduct f The truth is, that if the Christian is right, then the infidel is wrong; and if the Uible, which we believe to contain a revelation of the moral glory of God, does indeed establish its own claim to divine authenticity, then eternal condemna- tion must be the result of a life of impenitence and sin. This the infidel secretly beli(.nes ; and hence the necessity which he perceives, of either repenting, and abandoning all his favourite vices, or of rejecting the Bible and Christianity as a whole. 'J'he opposi- tion of such men, very much resembles the conduct of the idolatrous Ahab, king of Israrl, v. ho hated and rejected Micaiali, the faithl'ul pioiilict of the Lord. " / hate him : for he doth not propJiccij good concerning me, hid evil.^^ 1 Kings xxii. 8.* Friday morning, the 27th, Mr. Stanford visited several rooms in the Ahns-llonse. On this occasion he says: — " I enjoyed unusual satisfaction in convcr- * A melancholy instance of inveterate malignity against the tnitii of Cliristianity occnrred in the case of an IjiJilisii nobleman. Lord 11 . of . At first he only allowed himself to he absent from ihe public worship of God; then he became a subscriber to the infuii'l iiiiblicatidns of the day, and spent his Sabbaths in reading them. The next step was to lay aside all the restraints ol' early religious education; and in a short time he became an avowed deist. Nothing could Jiow exceed the hos- tility which he displayed towards tlie inspired volume, and the followers of Christ. This opposition was c-onlimied for several years, until at last the insulted justice of J(;hovah laid him upon his dying pillow. Then, like the young man meutitmed Iiy IMr yianford, he found, ala.-- ! too late, that infidelity has no consolation.s ailaptcd to tlie wants of the soul in the hour of dissolution. When he was lold that his time was short — tliat ho could not survive the dei-iin(! of thai day, his mind iie(ranie greatly agitated. The recollection of his blasphemy, anil opposiiicm to Christ, at whose bar he must soon appear, nmdere.l him almost frantic with d(!s|)air. " Go," said he to a person ni;ar his bed, " go into the library and bring me that accursed hook, by vvbicli I w;is first taught to qncstion. then to contra- dict, and then to l)las[)henie that holy vohnnc, the revelation of "the great God, the belief of which I now find indisjicn-a'ile to the comfort and salvation of my soid.'' The book was no sooner put into his hand, than he tore it into a thousand jiieces, and threw it into the firo. In a fevy minutes after he closed Ids eyes, and sunk in death. SOCIETV Ol' THE UNITED BRETHREN. 173 sation with a niunbcr of very aged persons, who were waiting for death, and rc^joicing in hope of the glory of Go(J. O how good it is to nieet with such old jewels of the Lord, atnidst the rubbish of the world." The annexed extract is very descriptive of the character of our departed friend, lie was a Baptist both in principle and practice; but he was also a devoted Christian, and availed himself of every suit- able op|)ortunity to manifest his sincere attachment to Christians of cv(;ry evangelical denomination. With such it was ever his delight to co-operate, in advancing the em[)ire of the ascended Redeemer. " Extract from the protocol of tlie thirtieth general meeting of the Society of the United Erethren for Propagating the Gospel among the Heathen, which usually meets at Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, held 20th of August, 1813. " The president mentioned that the Rev. John Stanford, of Ncnv-York, a true friend of the Brethren, who takes especially a near share in the progress of our missions among the heathen, had made known to the directors, through brother Mortimer, his wish to become a member of this society; and, agreeable to the uniform practice hitherto in such cases, had been received by them as an honorary manher, (agree- able to the third article of the statutes,) without first consulting the society on the subject. The members present unanimously expressed their particular satis- faction at hearing this. " BENJAMIN 3I0RTIMER." On the following Tuesday Mr. S. visited seven rooms in the City-Hospital. In one of them he found a lad, who had fallen from the top of a house, and broken his thigh, both arms, and par- tially fractured his skull. His mother and three brothers, who were Roman Catholics, were at his bed- 15* 174 LETTER TO A. B. ESQ. side. Mr. Stanford requested the nurse to shut the door, that he miglit engage in prayer ; but to this the elder brotlier objected. Mr. S. mildly informed him, that as chaplain to the hospital, this was a service with ■which he could not conscientiously dispense. After prayer, the mother was absorbed in tears, and even the brothers appeared thankful. It is a subject of regret, that Mr. Stanford's diary for the four remaining months in the year, were loaned to a friend for his perusal, who soon after died, and the manuscript was never recovered; but from his text-book it apj)ears, that he continued his regular services in the State-Prison, City-Ilospital, Alms-Housc, Magdalen-IIouse, and the Uiiitod States Military-Hospital, Sec. During this year, (1813) he was assij-ted to labour with unabated zeal, and at the close of his notes for the year, he says: — " Whatever good may have been done among the poor people of my charge, I ascribe all the glory and piaise to my gracious God in Christ. Amen." Letter of condolence addressed to A***** B*****» Esq. who was greatly afllicted by a sudden and pain- ful bereavement. *' DEAR FRIEND, " Informed of your domestic trials, respect and gratitude in)pel me to address you. To resign so line a child to the grave, after indulging the fondest hopes of his eventually being tiic solace of your advancing years, must be extremely afflicting, and calls for con- solation more than mortal sympathy can give. " In the midst of our sorrows, it is very diiHcult to discern the intention of the Almighty; a dark cloud covers the mind, and irritability olten distracts the frame; but afterwards, like the traveller who has passed the desert, and gained the mountain's tup, we LETTER TO A. D. ESQ. 175 can better review the dreary path we have trodden, and make the necessary iinproverncnts. 1 trust it will ere lon^- be thus with you. (j!od has given you several precious chiUhcn. The roses in your garden liave ah-eady alibrded you much dehght. Had not the Lord a right to take this Httle flower and trans- plant it in heaven? He still, and know that he is God. If he has removed one flower, remember he Jias spared others to delight your heart. He has an indisputable right to the whole, and could ere this have caused their leaves to drop, and removed them for ever from your view. Nay, more, he could have commanded death to dissolve the marriage band, and have taken the wife from the husband, and thus swelled the tide of your grief. Or the husband and the father might have been separated from the mother and her children, and they left to pass the remnant of their days in sorrow. " At this awful season of pestilence, into how many excellent families has not death entered ! On every side \\c bcholil widows wringing their hands for the loss ol" their husbands, the stafi" of their support, and the solace of their days. Orphans mourning the loss of parents, in vain look for some kind hand to save. But look around upon your charming family, the ma- jority of whom are yet reserved to promote your joy ! " 3Iay tiie j)resent stroke of death, which has de- })rived you of a delightful son, be the means of teach- ing you to enjoy your children, and all you possess, ' in the Lord.' Then, should Providence remove them from your embraces, you will cheerfully acquiesce in the Saviour's \\ ill, who gave, and has a right to take away. " With sincere desires for your personal and domestic felicity, *' I remain, " Your aflectionate friend, "JOHN STANFORD." 176 SCHOOLS IN THE STATE-PR I SOi\. Mr. Stanford commenced the first page of his diary for 1814, witii the following pious remark : — " Another year commenced. AV hat work the Lord lias appointed for me among the forlorn classes com- mitted to my care, or what general services for the benefit of my fellow creatures, I know not. O Lord, put thy fear into my heart ; give me grace to walk humbly before thee, and make my strength equal to my day; then all will be well, and thy name shall be glorified." It may not be improper, in this place, again to remind the reader, that the preceding, as well as the following account of the public and private labours of Mr. Stanford, as a mitrister of the gospel, are to be regarded not as a full statement in detail, but as an epitome of his diary, from which, if it were desira- ble, volumes might be filled with the recital of touch- ing and interesting incidents. Lord's day. At eight A. M. he preached in the City-Hos[)ital; and in the State-Prison at half past ten A. j\L and then visited the sick. In the after- noon he preached to the churcli in Broome-street ; and in the evening in the Alms-Ilouse, to a large number of paupers, who were serious and attentive. Blessed be the adorable Saviour, who has commanded the gospel to be j)reached to the poor. Monday. Mr, Stanford walked to the State-Prison for the j)urpose of examining two new schools, which, added to those already organized, made at that time seven schools in this prison, which were open only in the evening, and found to be of great advantage to the more ignorant prisoners. Friday morning, '7tli. Mr. Stanford was sent for to visit a dying woman in the Bridewell. lie found her, and three others, in a wretched con- dition, lying on the bare floor, with only a ragged l)lanket for each, to shield them from the pierc- ing cold. The physician who accompanied him, ANOTHER VICTIM OF SEDUCTION SAVED. 177 said, tliat tliis poor creature could not lon^' survive the horrible eflbcts ol" her sinful course. The apartment was so very offensive, that they were obliged to oj)en the window while they remained. When Mr. Stan- ford complained to the keeper concerning the destitute state ol' these women, he said, he had no more co\ er- ing in the house to give them. As a commiitee of the Aldermen were to meet in the evening, Mr. Stan- ford stated the case to them, and the next morning they ordered the females to be provided with suitable beds and bedding. Since this period, greater atten- tion has been paid to the miserable inmates of the I>ridewcll. In the afternoon he went to the Statc-Piison. Here he found the hospital crowded wiili the sick and the dying. Five men were affected with a very malignant fever, and the hall and wards were go foul and disagreeable, owing to the prevailing dis- ease, that it was diflicult to perform the usual service. Ilespecting- this visit, he remarks: — " I know it is hazardous to visit under such circum.stances, but the Lord is my keeper, and my life is of little value ex- cept thus to be employed for the benefit of others." Tuesday, 2oth. This day he visited most of the wards in the City-IIospital ; in one of which he found a young female under deep penitence for her profli- gate life; and there is great reason to hope that the blessed Jesus, at whose feet 3Iary Magdalene did not weep in vain, revealed his pardoning mercy to this unhappy victim of seduction. Conversion of R B , aged 19. " This young woman was," says Mr. Stanford, '• confined several months by consumption. From my first visit she listened with attention, and confessed that she had been a great sinner, and felt her heart so very hard and obstinate, that she was alnu)st ready to despair. Gradually, however, it ])leased the Lord 178 CATECHISM FOR THE YOUNG PRISONERS. to open to her tlie riches of grace in Christ the Re- deemer. Tlie promises of divine mercy were recom- mended to her attention, and in prayer she speedily found access to the throne of grace. On one occasion she said, 'I pray to the Lord night and day when my pains abate — it is my only comfort and delight — I have some liope that God will save me at last, through Jesus Christ.' "In the evening I called to see this young woman. * Rachel,' said I, ' can you say. Father, vot my icil/, but thine he doneT ' Sir,' she replied, ' I can do more than that.' ' What is it r' ' Sir, I can feel it; 1 wait for my Lord to come and take me, for I long to be w ith him.' After prayer she thanked me for my visits in so affecting a manner, that 1 was obliged to retire. "On the next Saturday night she died, rejoicing in Christ." Tuesday, the 1st of February. This day Mr. Stanford completed his Catechism for the unfortunate youth in the State-Prison, and, by order of the Board of Inspectors, he sent it to the press for publication. The following Tuesday he visited every ward in the City-Hospital, and prayed in eight of them. On the 13th he remarks: — " I preached at eight A. M. in the City-Hospital, and then visited and prayed with a dying man. Directly after, I accom- j)anied the Rev. Daniel Sharp, of Boston, to the State- Prison chapel, where he ])rcachcd a sernion for me, with groat acceptance to the prisoners. Visited the sick in the prison hospital, and returned liome. Af- ternoon, |)reached in the Debtor's chapel, and in the evening at the Aims-House, and afterwards prayed with dying persons in three diilerent wards. This to me was a day of mercy, and I sincerely pray that it may be I'uUowed with mercy to many others." ^Vednesday, 23d, he spent three hours in the Alms- llouse, with much satisfaction, ha\ ing found several TRIUMPIIS OF THE GOSPEL. 179 new cases, of persons under great concern for salva- tion ; and others, waiting with cheerfidness for their last change. 28th. 3Ir. Stanford employed the whole of this day in examining the schools in the State-Prison, and in placing before the minds of the nnhappy criminals, the way of peace by the blood and righteousness of Christ. On the 3d of March he preached in the 3Iagdalen- Ilouse, and also in the State-Prison. In the latter place he found a female prisoner extremely ill, and under awfid alarm concerning her future state. To this unhap[)y creatiirc it is believed that the Lord blessed his conversation as the means of inducing her to look by faith to that adorable Saviour, who can pluck the brand from the burning. The conversion of N L . In the upper ward, Mr. Stanford found three or four females, very sensible of their sinful state, and one white woman in particular. She expressed her- self in terms which indicated a recent work of divine mercy upon her heart. She blessed the Lord for her affliction. God had convinced her of her great sin- fulness, and led her to Jesus Christ as her Saviour, by the application of whose blood she experienced pardon and peace. She said that she was never so happy before, and died that night, full of faith, hope, and joy, in Jesus Christ. After this, Mr. S. visited a sick prisoner in the hospital, wiio was in a XQiy hardened and inij)enitent state. These cases clearly illiistrale the sovereignty of God in the gifts of divine grace — one is saved, and another remains hardened in sin. On the 4th, at ten o'clock in the morning, he went to the Alms-llousc, and found that four of his charge had died ; three of whom, expired in the triumphs of faith iu Jesus Christ. 180 OllDIXATION OF MK. ELLIOTT. Oil the Gtli, wliich was the Sabbath, he })reached in the City-liospital at eight o'clock in the morning, and at halt* past ten in the church in Fayette-street. At three o'clock in the afternoon he preached again in the Debtor's-Prison, and in the evening at the Alins-IIouse. Respecting this day's service he re- marks : — " In the midst of weakness, temptation, and fear, the Lord has mercifully helped me. But 1 was very much fatigued by w^alking to so many places. Nevertheless, it is better to be tired in the work of the Lord, than to be tired of it." Like Gideon and his men, he was '■'■ Faint, yd pursuing.''^ Wednesday, 9th. After having attended the Alms- llouso in the morning, Mr. Stanford assisted in the ordination of Mr. Elliott, at the Bethel church. The whole of the service was performed with great solem- nity, and the fervent prayer of many hearts ascended to God, for a blessing upon the minister then set apart to the work of the gospel. Friday, 11th. This morning he was requested to visit a dying man in the City-Hospital. It was truly an allccting scene. Mr. Stanford had frequently conversed and prayed with him, and a hope was in- dulged that God would be gracious to his distressed soul. This morning he found him, sensible, but speechless. Mr. Stanford asked him if he were will- ing to die, and felt in his heart a hope in Christ the Lord? To which, with a smile, he bowed his head, and lifted up his hanils toward heaven. Mr. S. then prayed with him; after which he took his station at a short distance from the bed of the dying man, for the })urpose of addressing the other patients in the room, on the important concerns of their souls, and directing them to Jesus, the friend of sinners. " In a few minutes," says Mr. Stanford, "I jierccived the sick man undergoing his last change, and soon he sunk in the arms of death. Though I have visited the death beds of many hundred persons, this was the HORRIBLE CON.-JEQUF.NCES OF DEISM. 181 second person I ever saw in the act of dying. May the impressions made upon my mind on this occasion, assist me to keep the solemnities of deatii and eternity in view !" In the afternoon Mr. Stanford again visited the Hospital, and spent two hours with the sick, among whom there was an elderly man, who refused to permit him to speak one word about Christ, and died the next morning, unconscious of his sinfulness and danger. The following is another instance of the horrible consequences of deism, and recantation in the dying hour. " This morning,'' says Mr. Stanford, " I was re- quested to visit a man supposed to be near death. After tenderly inquiring about the state of his mind, he replied, 'It is very easy — I know that there is one (rod — I believe that there is a future state — I believe God, when I die, will take my poor soul — I believe all these.' — ' Do you know that you are a sinner, and that you need mercy ?' * O, we are all sinners.' I assured him that God could not save him at the expense of divine justice. ' You and I,' said Mr. S. ' both stand in need of a Saviour. God hath in mercy given his dear Son, * ichosehlood dcanseth from all sin.'' And — ^ there is none other name given under heaven, ulierehy ice may be saved, but the tiame of the Lord Jesus ;' he is the only Saviour.' To my great astonishment this man rej)lied, ' I dont know any thing about him.' ' Then it is high time you should know him. It is indeed an encouragement that this Jesus is able and willing to save to the uttermost all who come unto God by him, and it becomes you, under your circumstances, to pray to him for mercy.' I was equally surprised to receive for answer — ' I never prayed in my life.' I thought it my duty, solemnly to warn him of his dan- ger. After which I prayed. " At four o'clock I ordered the coachman to put 16 182 RECANTATION. me down at the Hospital gate, and I went into tlie sick man's room ; but what was my ustonisliment, as I looked around, to find both the man and the bed re- moved. ' Nurse, what have you done with the pati- ent ?' ' He is in the dead-liouse — he died at twelve o'clock.' ' How did he die."'' Instead of giving me a direct rej)ly, she informed mc, that soon after I left liim in the morning, two of his friends had been to visit him, and who informed her that he was a deist, and had lived a very irregular life. ' But, nurse, yon do not answer my question — iiow did he die ?' ' Sir, when he knew he was going he cried loudly enouirh to Jesus Chriat to save him — he died a coward at last; and with his last breath renounced his former infidelity.' " Thursday, 17th. In the morning Mr. Stanford preached in the Magdalen-House, and visited the United States-Hos])ital. Going through tJie Slate- Prison, he had an encouraging convers^ation with otic of the i)risoners, who i)rofessed to have met with a change of heart since he came to this dismal abode. " O," says Mr. Stanford, " how rich the grace of God, to find out such transgressors! and what an encouragement is it for me to persevere in the service of Christ!" Wednesday, Mr. Stanford went to the State-Prison, where he found a prisoner in the agonies of death. After tenderly addressing him for a few moments, he thought it prudent to desist, when, with a sepulchral tone the dying man said, 'Go on.' He did so, and concluded with jorayer. In about an hour after- wards, the soul ol" this poor prisoner passed into the eternal world. Mr. Stanford employed a part of Friday, the 2oth, in calling upon a t'v.w of his opulent friends, to solicit their aid in furnishing the room employed as a chapel in the Debtor's-Prison ; and in this enterprise he succeeded beyond his expectations. CONVEKSION OF W. S. L. 383 On tho morning of t!ic third Sabbath in April, lie ppi^ched to the state prisoners, what thoy were in the luibit of calling, " A Jubilee Sermon," before the annual season, when the governor of the state is accustomed to pardon such individuals as may be j)articularly recommended to his clemency. The text was from Ezra i\. 8 — " Give us a little reviving in our biimlage.^^ The afternoon was employed in preaching and in visiting the sick ; and in the evening lie preached a sermon to the poor in the Alms-llouse. Tuesday, the 5th of 3Iay, he uttcndcd twelve wards in the City-IIospital, and prayed in inost of them. One of the patients expressed his thanks to God for the hope of pardon, received under the sermon last Sabbath morning. The conversion of W. S. L . " This young man," Mr. Stanford says, " had been about two years in the Hospital. When I spoke to him to-day, he said, ' 1 am not quite twenty-one years of age, and perhaps I shall not live to get out. O, Sir, I want to make my peace with God.' I directed him to Christ, who lias made peace by the blood of his cross ; and assured him, that Christ alone could speak peace to his heart. He replied, ' Sir, this is what 1 want, and for this I [)ray, but I never knew or felt the necessity of this before, and I hope you will pray for me, that the Lord may have mercy ou me, a poor miserable creature. 1 am very dark in my mind — my pain is distressing — lam so miserable I can hardly I)ear myself.' I reminded him of the greatness of God's compassion for the chief of sinners, even at the latest hour. He wept, and replied, ' I am not worthy of the mercy of God, nor the favour you have shown me ; I have in my own heart thanked you a thousand times.' I repeated the words of the prophet — ' And yc shall seek me, and Jin d me, ivlien ye shall search for me icith all your heart.' To which he 18-4 SCHOOL IN THE HObPIlAL. replied, ' I do seek the Lord with my whole heart ; I have nothing- else to seek after, and there is nothing 1 want besides.' " This service was not in vain in the Lord. A few days after this I found him near his end. In broken accents he said — ' J shall never see you again.' I encouraged him to trust his soul and body to the mercy of the Lord Jesus, who was able to support him to the end. lie expressed his wish to say much to me, but was unable. He exclaimed — ' Precious Jesus I' 1 asked him if he had reason to believe that Jesus was his Saviour f lie replied, ' He is my Sa- viour for ever.' In about an hour after this he died, rejoicing in the Loid." The Tuesday following, Mr. Stanford visited all the wards in the City-Hospital, conversing and pray- ing with the sick. After this laborious day, he spent the evening with one of the governors of the Hospital, in forming a plan to give some education to the lame children in the institution. This was subsequently effected, and still continues to prove highly beneficial. Tiie plan was very simple. 3Ir. Stanford appointed their lessons on one visiting day, and heard tiiem recite on the next. This system produced the liappy effect, not only of tcjudiing them to read, but it kept them still, and thus facilitated their cure. After spending a part of Thursday in the ordinary duties of his cbaplaincy, he visited tlie United States Military-Hospital, and preached a sermon to the sick and maimed soldiers. On this occasion he conversed and prayed with a soldier apparently near death, and who expressed much gratitude for his attentions. " I must confess," he remarks, " that I llnd tliese soldiers more grateful than many otiier people." The following extract of a letter from ('olonel Col- «len to Mr. Stanford, is ex|)ressive of the views which were entertained of his services. COLONEL COLDEN. 185 ''Fort Gansevort, June 11///, 1814. " IlEV. SIR, " Pennit me, for myself, and in behalf of my regi- ment, to return you thanks for tlie assistance you have aiiortled iis. All <^oo(l men must unite in prayers, tliat yon may he Xou'f, spared to discharge the pious and arduous duties which you take upon yourself. That you may he happy in this world, and that yoti may meet the reward for which every zealous and able servant in the Christian Church may hope. " 1 amj Rev. Sir, *' With great respect, " Your obedient humble servant, " CADWALLADER D. COLDEN." The subjoined letter, is another evidence that his gratuitous labours among the military were duly ap- preciated. " United States Muitari/-Hospital, Ch'eetun'cJi , '' June 15th, 18U. " SIR, " The patients in the General Military-Hospital at Greenwich, for themselves and those that have pre- ceded them, beg leave respectfidly to address you, previously to their final discharge from the United States service. " During two years your unremitted zeal for their moral and religious welfare, has manifested itself in the strongest possible light. Your kind and paternal attention, which, without the slightest prospect of reward, has so uniformly been evinced, will for ever endear you to our memories. You have not ceased to visit us, and admiaiister consolation in the most inclement weather ; and often at the expense of your own health. We regret that our only return is, that of a grateful acknowledgment; be pleased, Sir, to» 16* 186 CHAPEL IN THE DEBTOK's-PRISON. believe, that return, though humble, to be sincere. The remembrance of your disinterested kindness will remain with us through life, and descend with us to our graves. Accept, Sir, our warmest and most affectionate prayers for your happiness. " In behalf of the patients, " SIMON CRYGIER, " GEORGE THATCHER. ' DANIEL PARMER." On Friday morning he visited three rooms in th(; Bridewell, in which were a number of miscrabh; women, very sick with what is called " the jail dis- temper." He found most of them in a state of deplorable insensibility of mind, ignorant of Christ, and without hope in the world. To them he preached repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord .Tcsus Christ, as the only liope of the guilty. The ministry of Mr. Stanford was generally characterized by what is called, ' doctrinal orthodoxy,' but while it is true, that he delighted to expitiatc upon the sovereignty of God, still his frequent theme was — " Come, all ye vilest .siiiner.=, come. He'll ibriu your sotils anew; His gospel and h'la liCart have room, For rebels svicli as you." In the evening he preached in the Alms-IIouse, to a large collection of poor, n)any of whom wore earnestly seeking the salvation of their souls. " Wliile grace is ofTur'd to the prince. The poor may take their share; Ni) mortal has a just pretence To pori.sh in dc.sj)air.'' On the morning of the 24th, he prenched in the f'ity-llospital, and in the ufternoon he opened tin; new chapel in the Debtor's-Prison. It was formed COLD WATER TUAfcTi. 187 by throwing two rooms into one ; and was provldeJ with a convenient ilcsk, books, scats, ttc. all of wiiich Mr. Stanford procured by subscriptions anion*^ his personal friends. The prisoners confined in the debtor's apartments havinj^ been handsomely entertained by the sherill", .Mr. Ilui^gles Hubbard, and Mr. .J. L. 13ell, on the an- niversary of the fourth day of Jidy, 1311; though it i:« believed they had no wine, yet among other senti- ments uttered 0:1 that occasion, they gave the follow- ing cold water toasts, as an ex|)ression of their high res|)ect for the gentlemen named. " The humane sherilf, (lluggles Hubbard,) who prefers the interest of his prisoners to his own emolu- ment. " The Rev. Jolin Stanford, the philanlhropist, who searches the dreary dungeon to proclaim the free grace of his blessed Redeemer to his brothers in adversity. May the ministers of the gospel in thin city learn to do likewise." On the morning of the 9th, Mr. Stanford received a special invitation to attend the annual meeting of the trustees and patrons of the New-- York Free- School, and introduce the exercises with prayer. A very numerous assembly of our most respectable citizens were convened on the occasion. From thence he went to the Aims-House, where he found a woman, aged seventy-one, who was then dying; but in a state of fnindthe most enviable. Behind the cloud of death, she saw, by taith, the Sun of Righteousness, and j)ant(!d for the hour to depart. Respecting this cast; he says : — " 1 have seldom met with a person so near to death, with a mind more calm and devout.'' In another ward was a female with whom he had often conversed al)out ihe subject of her salvation. Death had already commenced his work ; her eye lolled, and her lips cpiivered, under the struggle; but her faith in Jesus was triumphant. After prayer, she ^aid : — . 188 ' SCHOOLS EXAMINED. " Lord, carry me safely through. Tiiou wilt not forsake mc: I shall soon be with thee." " The righteous hath hope in his death." O , a prisoner, died on the 18th, and I have reason," says Mr. Stanford, *' to believe he had been a partaker of the grace of God. In death, his faith was firm in the I^ord, and his prospects bright for eternity. O how do such instances of sovereign mercy, magnify the grace of Cod." , The morning of the VJth was employed in examin- ing the schools in the State-Prison. They were convened in the cliapel, amounting in the whole to Jifty-eii^lit scholars. Their examination in reading, writing, arithmetic, catechism, &.c. gave great satis- faction to the inspectors, and much credit to the teachers. After the exercises, which lasted three hours, Mr. Stanford delivered an address to the assembly, and concluded with prayer. He commenced the services of the month following, by a long visit to most of the wards in the Alms- 1 louse. " It is truly gratif}ing," he says, " to find so many who are immersed in poverty, searching after the durable riches of divine grace. O that the Spirit of the Lord might make them rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom of God." The afternoon was spent with the board of inspec- tors on prison business; and the evening, by preach- ing in the Alms-IIouse. On the following day Mr. Stanford again visited the Military-Hospital, and preached a sermon; after which he conversed particularly with each individual. Amongst them he found one man under deep concern of mind, who wept bitterly, and seemed overwhelmed with a sense of his sins. To this mourning sinner he preached salvation through the blood of Christ, after which prayer was made unto God for him. The next visit was to the sick in the Statc-Prisou, THE TEMTTED ^t^TRA.NGER. 169 hospital ; liore 3Ir. Stanford convcrseil with a bliick tiuiu, supposed to be dyin<^. He suffered great pain, bat liis heart was hlh;d with love to GuA, and he was anxiously waiting tor the moment of final victory over death and the grave, through faith in tiie atoning blood of Christ. After this visit Mr. Stanford remarks : — " O huw good it is — how blessed the employment, to labour for the present and etx;rnal benefit of immortal souls." On Tuesday, the l-lth, he joassed his usual rounds among the sick in the City-Hospital; and in the evening he preached a sermon in the Mulhcrry-strt^ct meeting-house, on the subject of educating pious \oung men for the gosjjel ministry. This discourse was afterwards printed by the Baptist J/iterary and Theological Society of the State of New-York. On Thursday morning, while walking out of the city to perform his usual service at the State-Prison, he was overtaken by a young gentleman, with whom lie entered into conversation upon the subject of the Christian religion. After discovering great diffidence, the young gentleman, (a stranger to Mr. S.) proceeded to make the following remarks : — " O, Sir, for several years have 1 been the victim of very strong and awful temptations, which, however, I could never lind cour- age to communicate to my pious |)arents, or lo any other |)erson ; but as I feel great confidence in your paternal sympathy, if you will permit, I will give you an account of my case." Mr. Stanford having a.-- sured him of his readiness, not only to hear, but to afford him such advice as the nature of the case de- manded, the young man proceeded, with flowing tears, to unbosom himself. The case was very inte- resting, and awfully illustrative of the imminent danger to which unwary youth are exposed in a city like this. After giving suitable instruction and en- couragement to the troubled conscience, Mr. S. jnuted with this tempted stranger, whose expressions uj" 190 LETTER TO MR. W. S. gratitude afford conclusive evidence, that young per- sons especially, might often derive great assistance under their temptations and other trials, by seeking the counsel of age and experience. The affecting case referred to in the following letter, may serve as a commentary upon the adage — "Youth wants a guide." It is not to be controverted, that where sentiments of jjiety are early impressed upon the human mind, they generally form the basis of respectability in the present life, and greatly tend to prepare for the consummation of bliss in the world to come. But it is equally indisputable, that thousands of unsuspecting youth of both sexes> who leave tiie paternal roof, fortified by habits of in- dustry and early religious instruction; and followed by the prayers of anxious friends, have nevertheless become the victims of those multiform temptations which, in a populous city, assail them, almost at every step. In many instances they might have been delivered from evil, if, when coming to the city, they had been specially introduced by a letter from their parents, or from the clergyman of the village, to the attention of some pious friend, who would have watched for their good. Letter to 3Ir. W****** S*****. ''Xcw-Yorh, July, 1814. " DEAR SIR, " That mnn is horn to trouble as the sparks fly upward, is not only a fact recorded in the scri|)tures, but it stands iuscril>ed upon the history of the world. Those afflictions which may be denominated peculiar, sometimes arise from our social connections, and never fail to be doubly severe to the heart of a parent, on witnessing tin; disol)edicrformed his usual services in the Alms-IIouse ; and in the afternoon attended the Bridewell, in company with the sheriff, at which time the parents and relatives were permitted to converse with two coloured men, who were under sentence of death. The meeting was truly aifecting. So great was the interest which he felt in thoir cast-, that he considered it a duty to postpone his visits to tlie other juiblic institutions, and, daring the four days j)rior to their execution, to devote the whole of his time to promote the interests of their souls. The following statement presents another instance of his indefatigable labours, as the minister of the poor. On Thursday, the 25th, he walked to the Orpiian- Asylum, and heard two classes recite. Presented lo each of the monitors a grammar, with which they were highly jjleased. He then delivered an address on the death of a pious child; after which, he walked to the State-Prison, and preached two sermons; then visited the sick, and walked home ; but so much fatigued, as to be incapable of doing any thing in the evening. The dawn of the following day fouml him again at his post, in the active discharge of his duties. For his constant and faithfid labours in the Orphan- Asylum, he received the following letter of thanks from the directresses of that institution. " REV. SIR, " The Board of Directresses of the Orphan-Asylum, •cnsible of your active benevolence in promoting thu LETTER FROM HON. RICHARD STANFORD. 209 interests of their institution, have requested mc to express, the warm aclvnoulcdginents of their grati- tude. " Your unwearied attention to the improvement of tlie children under their charge, in that knowledge which *■ makdli wise unto salvation,^ and your continual efforts to extend the usefulness of their Asylum, are duly appreciated ; and they sincerely hope, your ex- cellent advice may be so cherished by the orphans, that it may be the means of reclaiming the vicious, of preserving sound principles, and of making their future lives, usefid and liappy. " The address you delivered before their orphans, on occasion of the late aiHiclive event in Fhiladcl|ihia, when the Orphan Asylum in that city was destroyed by fire, the board are desirous should be published ; and they beg you will allow them to defray the expense. " I remain, Rev. Sir, " With sentiments of great respect, your's, " SUSANNA ONDERDONK, Cor. Sec'ry." The following is a letter from the Hon. Richard Stanford, to our venerable friend. " Washington Citi/, February 19, 1816. " DEAR SIR, " Our mutual friend, General J. Swift, being here, 1 use the opportunity, by him, to make to you my grateful acknowledgments for your favour of last summer, by the Rev. Dr. Allison, with the several presents to my family accompanying it. They all reached my family since I left home, and Mrs. Stan- ford has transmitted to me your letter, enjoining it upon me, when I should write you, not to forget the tender of her iiarticfilar respects and remembrance. '* By the General, 1 have also sent you a small pocket Bible, which I must request you to accept, as 18* 210 DEATH OF HON. RICHARD STANFORD. the memento of my regard, and sincerest best wishes in your behalf, that you may enjoy the peace it pro- mises, and the happiness it insures. As it was, you know, i\\e first promise and gift of God to estranged, fallen man, so then let it be, between us, a remem- brance, always to teach us, though strangers upon tho earth, how we may become fellow-citizens in heaven, "lean only further add, that 1 continue to be blessed with tolerable health, and feel that 1 ought to be moro thankful than I am, for blessings bestowed on me and mine. " Believe me to be, my dear Sir, *' With the greatest regard and respect, " Always your obedient humble servant, " R. STANFORD."* Mr. Stanford commenced his diary for March, 1816, with the following remarks. " Lord's day. Began this month vvith more than nsual engagedness of heart, to walk with God, and to be more useful to my several congregations." The subjoined extracts, will show, that his zeal did not evaporate in the heat oi'a mere cxjicriment. " Tuesday, 12th. Took my usual rounds in tho City-Hospital, and found the coloured people very desirous to learn to read, and I hope I shall be able to establish three schools amongst them." Wednesday, 13th, he visited nine rooms in the Alms-llousc, and prayed in eight; in one of which ho * Tho Hon. RicHAHU SrANioiiDdied al his lodgings in George-Town, oil the 9lh of Apiil, 18'2(). He was at llic time of his decease, a repre- ■oiitative in (^"ongioss from the iStatc of Norlli-Caroiina, n^ed 47 years. His Complaint was tlie er)si|)clas,orii;iiKiliiip, it is believed, in aromnion cold. Ho h;id ijrei) a iiiemher of the I louse of Iveiiresciitatives for near twenty years, and was. at tho time of his dealli, llie eldest member of the house. In private life, be was nniversally esteemed and respected, qh an upright man, and a hi^iiiy useful member of society. From respect to iiis memory, Con;;ress adjourned for two days, and all the members of bctU tiuuacB ultcuded his funeral. NEW ALM.S-HOUSE. 211 found many persons in (lyin;^ circumstances, to whom he preached the word ol" Htc. Monday, the 29th, Mr. Stanford opened the chapel of the new Ahiis-PIousc, by preaching a sermon from Psahu ix. 18. The following article, describing that interesting occasion, is taken from the Commercial Advertiser for April 30. "■ I was yesterday present at the opening and con- secration of the eleaant chapel of the new Alms-Mouse, ',A Bellevuc, and i think 1 never saw so solemn and interesting a scene in the whole course of my life. The religious ceremonies were performed by the Rev. and venerable Mr. Stanford, the chaplain, who delivered a very eloquent and impressive discourse from the words — ' Fo/ iltc necdt/ shall not alivnijs be Jorgolfdn ; the expectation of the poor shall not perish for ever." He incorporated with his discourse, a brief view of the rise and progress of humane institutions in this city, particulariy of the establishment which this extensive building is designed to continue. Tho congregation a^^scmbied on this occasion were very respectable; and besides the honourable the Corpo- ration, 1 noticed some of our first characters, and many strangers of distinction. It is sincerely to be wished, that the sermon should a|)pear in print, as it will l)e read with very great interest." This discourse was printed by order of the Cor- poration, 'i'lie subjoined note is an extract, contain- ing an abridged account of the places provided at difl'erent periods, for the poor of the city, which, it is iioped, will not be without interest to the readers of this volume. It would seem to be peculiarly desirable, while writing tlie nuMUoir of the man, who was emphatically the miiiisler of Christ, to the poor of New- York, at the same time, to give a succinct history of the institutions in which, with so much zeal and success, he continued for many years to labour^ 212 MAN'USCRIPT BOOK LO:'ely established — here are public charity schools for indigent children — the widow, with small children, are fostered by a society of females — by another, clothing is provided for the naked— by a provident society, the imprisoned debtors, and other jiccessitous persons, are supplied with refreshments — aged widows, who once saw belter days, are aided with necessary comforts to alleviate their sorrows while closing the period of life — here, too, as one of the brightest orna- ments of our city, exists an asylum for helj)less orphans, where they are tenderly fostered, and receive such educati-m and religious instruction aa promises thi* greatest advant;igc to the children, and to tin; general com- munity. While these several acts of benevolence are honourable to human nature and to our citizcjis, all must confess that they are the fruit of the gospel of Jesus ("hrist, which we so plentifully enjoy. " For wise purposes, and combining a greater nuuibcr of objects, the Corporation of our city have erected this establishment at Bellevue — tho chapel of which, we this day open for divine worship, is sixty by fort}'-fiv» feet, and thirty in height, with three spacious galleries, the whole linishcfl with great neatness. The tirst stone of this building was laid August ], 1811, by the Honourable I)e Witt Clinton, mayor of the city. The pro- mises, at present, occujiy about seventeen acres of ground The building itself is three hundred and twenty feet by lifty ; with two wings, ona hundred by fifty feet. Two hospitals are in the rear, [seventy-live by twenty-five feet, three stories high. A penitentiary is also erected for the continement of those who have committed petit larceny; likewise a spa- cious work-shop, two hundred feet by twenty-five. To these extensive buildings will be added separate schools for the male and female cliildren, to receive a plain education, and religious in.struction ; ia hope, that bj tbe blessing of God they may become useful citizens. 214 SABBATH BREAKERS CONVERTED. perfect resignation to the Lord Jesus, so that tny labours are not altogether in vain, however truly un- worthy I am." Friday, the 14th, he went to the new Alnis-House, visited thirty moms, and offered |)rayer in more than half of them. " In this service," he says, " I found much communion with my Lord. Carried four Bibles, and some tracts for the i)risoners in the Penitentiary. This to me was a refreshing day's work. Praise the Lord!" August 18th. This day Mr. Stanford was assisted to jjreach with unusual satisfaction at the Alms- ilousc, v.'hcre he was informed, that the gospel, preached on the preceding Lord's day, liad been blessed to three young lads, who, while breaking the Sabbath, had strolled into the place. After this they came regidarly to hear him, until they made a public jirofcssion of religion, and became members of dif- ferent churches in this city. In the morning a young Jew came to hear t!io gos])el, and was very attentive. After service he shook hands with Mr. S. and accom- j>anied him to the State-Prison chapel, in which he })reached at three o'clock in the afternoon. At five, lie again jireachcd at the Dcbtor's-Prison ; and at half-past seven, in the Mrdberry-strcct cluu\"h. On the lOth of October, he walked to the State- Prison, where he |)reached two sermons in the chapel, and after visiting the sick, he receivcii the following " Sovoral years siiicf>, I liail tlic ]ileasnrc of prnseiitiiig to llie lionour- ablo the Oirporatioii, a plan for establisliiiiif an asylum for va^naut yontli. Many of lliis (l(!sc.ri|)lion, for a j^roat Icn^lli of tinio, ajipareiiliy without pari^nLs or fii(!ii(ls to foslor their tender yoars, have inicstud onr streets, inarket.-", and wliarve.-j ; too IV(.'(iuenlly eonmiitliiif; depredation^; on the pnhlic, and rniniiifj thenisolves. And, it is a fact, that for the want of such an asylum, there arc now many criminal children consigned to the jStito-l'rison. It would, indeed, be a luxury to my heart, to live and see an asylum of this description, in which such young unfortunates might \tvi rescued from vice, iiuired to habits of industry, mid roceive such • Jucatijii a-i may render thorn useful to the public.'' LETTER FROM GOVERNOR TOMPKINS. 215 l Mr. Spicer the documents required, inchiding Mr. Stanford's excellent " Memorial on Prisons, addressed to the Legislature of the State of New-York," several years before. This is a valuable paper, full of dis- criminating and practical remarks, but must be omitted for want of room. December 2d. Mr. S. walked to the Orphan-Asy- lum, and gave a discourse, with much satisfaction. Another child died this day, and although only seven years of age, he gave very satisfactory evidence of having obtained converting grace, and died rejoicing in the Lord. '• No tears for thee be shed, Blossom of being, seen and gone '. With flowers alone we strew thy bed, O bless'd departed one ! " We rear no marble o'er thy tomb ; No sculptur'd image there shall mourn ; Ah ! fitter far the vernal bloora, Such dwelling to adorn." CHAPTER XII. INDEFATIGADLC LAHiJUUS, AND OKEAT ENCOURAGLMBN T. TuKt^DAY, January 26, 1819. Mr. Stanford preached two sermons in the City-IIospital, and afterwards visited all the wards, and had some agreeable conver- sation with a man whom the Lord had converted from the delusions of the Roman Catholic Church. He said, " O ! Sir, I for ever renounce the Church of Rome ; now Jesus is all my hope ; he is my physician for soul and body." — " Heard of the happy death of a magdulen, to whom, for several months, I have administered the gospel ; and in the afternoon preach- ed twice in the State-Prison. This was a day of mercies." Tuesday, February 2d, he went to Beilcvue to meet the Corporation on subjects of interest to the Aims- House and Penitentiary ; and afterwards visited a sick lady, who informed him, that she and her husband attended a course of his lectures more than twenty- six years before, and that the Lord, through his means, had brought them both to a knowledge of himself. In the month of August he attended " The Hud- son River Association," and opened the session by preaching a sermon from Acts xxviii. 15. He was afterwards unanimously elected as moderator, and presided during the deliberations of this body, with his usual dignity and ability. Tuesday, the 31st, he visited the two upper wards of the City-Hospital, and preached twice. At four o'clock in the afternoon, by request of the governors and physicians, he performed divine service in the 232 THE GOSPEL PREACHED TO LUNATICS. lunatic clepartmeut. The unrortiinatc inmates l>c- haved with tiie greatest decorum, and tlie occasion was one of deep interest.* " Lord's day, September 12th. Began the dulses of this day under great conflict of miuii. Jn the morning preached at the City-i{osi)ital. liodc to Bellevue and officiated with some I'reedom dn the chape], and to the blacks in tlie Penitentiary. In the afternoon, again in the chapel; and iti the presence of the congregation, I examined the children in their catechisu), whose answers gave great satisfaction to tlie asseinbly." Pdonday, the 27lh, j\Ir. S. made pcvcral prcifitab'e visits to out-door patients, two of whom were near death. One of these, aged about twenty, received Iicr first serious impressions under the ministry of Mr. Stanford, and died in the triumphs of faith. * Adjoining the City-Hospital is a considerable building, which, on June 15, 1808, was appropriated for the recc{)tion of lunatic patients. A few years after this, it was mentioned to tlie (lovernors of t!ie Hospital, that if divine service could be performed, and an instrut ri\ e. consoliiJg discourse delivered once a weelv to the more tranquil of the patients, tiic compassionate Saviour might be pleased to accompany the effort with U'la blessing. To this reconunendation they very cordially acceded, and ou the afternoon of August 3Jst, 1819, the intended service commenced. About forty of the most composed of t!ie patients were as^'cmblcd, nnd several of the governors, the physicians of the house, and the snperin- tendentof the Ilospital atteiidod on the occasion. 'I'he jiatienls conducted with great propriety, and many, of their own accord, kneeled while prayer was offered, and several expressed their thanks at tiio close of the service. To a service of this kind, performed in a Lunatic Asylum, some medi- cal gentlemen have objected, lliiit it liatl a tendency to discompose the minds, and increase the malady of the i:atients. Su(li unfavourable effects may indeed bi; produced by injudiciously selecting tliose- Fubjectd which are ol" an alarming and perplexing nature, but the gospel an- nounces the Saviour's power and grace, " To bind up ilic hokcn in heart, and to heal all tlirir vnnnd:^." Tor every alUiclioii h> which sinful man is heir, there is a remedy ia tlie gospel of Christ, Luke iv. 18. " Earth has no sorrow which heaven caimot lieal." So far, thenifore, from the gospol being injurious to a lunatic, it is bea- Ten's great Catholicon, i>rovided by the gre.it Fhysiciai! for the discou- Bolate. MR. Stanford's labouk.s appreciated. 233 Tlmrsday, 2 1st. This day Mr. S. visited the Bridewell, and found that Brown, the Catholic, sen- tenced to be executed on the following day, had re- jected his priest, crucifix, beads, A^c. and was much concerned for the salvation of his soul. On the foilou ing morning he went to the cell of the condemned man, and preached to him Jesus, the only Saviour of sinners. At twelve o'clock the prisoner's chains were removed, and he was brought into the yard, where, in the presence of a solemn multitude, Mr. Stanford delivered an appropriate address, and prayer ; after which the procession moved forward to the place of execution. In the month of November, Mr. Stanford was unanimously elected a me.mijkr of the Society of THE New-York llosriTAi,. This furnishes another evidence of the high estimation entertained of his I)rivate and public character. " 3lst. Through divine mercy," says Mr. S. " I have been assisted to preach this month, fifty-six times.^^ And at the close of the month following, he remarks — " Amidst hopes and fears, j)leasures and pains, the liord has enabled me to preach forty-nine sermons.'" And again, on the 31st of December — " Thus the Lord hath helped mc yet another year, amidst numberless infirmities, and enabled me, during the year just closed, to \n ei\c\i fii'c /tund red and forty - seven times.'^ That the public services of Mr. S. were highly appreciated, will appear from the following vote of approbation. " At a meeting of the Governors of the New- York Hospital, first month, (January) 4th, 1820. " A report was received from John Stanford. On motion, resolved, that the report be accepted, and that the assiduity and attention of John Stanford to' his ardous, religions, and benevolent duties, meets 20* 234 SIX SERMONS PREACHED IN ONE DAY. with the cordial approbation of this Board ; and the Secretary is directed to furnish him with a copy of this minute. " Extract from the minutes, " THOMAS BUCKLEY, Secretary." April 14th, 1820. Mr. S. visited, and gave a dis- course in the men's hospital at Bellevue. This was an affecting occasion. Criples of almost all ages, from the child of ten, to the hoary head of fourscore years. One man came from the next room, crawling on his hands and knees, having lost both his feet. All were solemn, and some inquired what they must do to be saved. After this he visited and prayed in several wards, in one of which he spent some time in conversation with a pauper, seventy-three years old. who was hardened in sin. A woman, at the great age of ninety-eight years, gave good evidence of her dis- cipleship, and love to Jesus Christ. After visiting the female hospital, he preached in the Penitentiary, and examined the boys in their catechism. Then gave a discourse to the lunatics, and linished the arduous duties of this day, with an examination of the school. On the 21st, he remarks — " It was gratifying to see with what pleasure my poor people received this day's visit. In every ward, the Bible was put into my hands for reading, and in |)raycr they were seri- ously engaged." August 27th. This day Mr. S. preached no less than six sermons in six different places, to several of which he was under the necessity of walking. Friday, September 15tli. lie preached y/r<7 /////<\s' at Bellevue, and attended two schools, besides visiting and praying with the sick. After this, he rode to the State-Prison to sec George Vandcrpool, but he had taken wiuic for heaven. NARRATIVE OB' GEORGE VANDERrOOL. 235 Tlic following brief extract from the narrative of the life and death of George Vanderpool, is so truly interesting, that we shall present it to the reader, When criminals, doomed by the laws of their country to an ignominious death, are brought to re- pentance, and obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, the joy of angels finds its counterpart in the heart of every good man. This was verified in the case of George Vanderpool, a young man of colour, who, with Ishmael Frazer, was, on December 4tli, 1815, condemned to be executed for the crime of arson, or, the burning of an inhabited dwelling-house in Washington-street. From a memorandum which Mr. Stanford received from Vanderpool, in his own hand writing, it appears that he was born free, in the year 1795. His father died when he was eight years of age, and he was kept at school by his mother until he was twelve. Has mother was a very pious woman, and made a practice of taking him with her to church, in this habit he continueil, until the fatal period when he became the victim of abandoned associates, from whom he learned the demoralizing practice of gambling. This, ho confessed, was the principal means of introducing him to a desperate gang of men, in connection with whom he eventually committed the crime for which he was condemned to sufier an ignominious death. " The day after sentence was passed upon these two criminals," says Mr. S. " the Sherift"accompanied me, to take the ministerial charge of them. The outer-door of the prison whicli leads to the condemned room being opened, 1 heard the piercing cries of irien, imploring mercy from God. I found them chained to the floor, and their faces greatly distorted by an guish. After the Slierift" had informed them of the intention of my visit, they renewed their lamentations so violently, that it was dilVicult for me to address them. As I was leaving the room, George wrung 236 NARRATIVE OF GEORGE VANDEKPOOL. his liands, and with tears gushing from his eyes, ex- claimed, 'O that God woukl have mercy on my soul, then I would willingly die!' " By soothing advice, in a few days these unfor- tunate men were able to listen to my admonitions, with a degree of calmness. 1 folded down two or three pages of scripture, particularly Isaiah i. 18 ; requesting them to seek the Lord by jjraycr, to bless his own word to their souls. I likewise gave them a tract on ' The Way of Salvation,' and commended them to the mercy of God. " Early in the next week, I found the mother of Vanderpool in the Bridewell, waiting to accompany me to visit her son, for the first time since his con- demnation. The )necling between them was too affecting for description. The wretched son, covered with shame, and tilled with remorse, had scarcely power to embrace ])is mother. Overwhelmed with grief, he exclaimed: — ' My mother, O my mother! j)ray for my soul!' After such a scene, it was with much difficulty I could compose my mind sufficiently to |)ray for the j)risoners, and the unhappy female. " On my next visit 1 fourul Vanderpool composed, and attentively reading his Bible. With a deep sigh George said, ' Sir, do you think there may be hope of mercy for such a i)oor wretch as 1 am r' For h\s encouragement 1 explained to him Micah \iii. 18, IJ), and concluded my visit with |)rayer. " At my next visit I was exceedingly gratified to find them both in the exercise of penitence, and reading their Bibles. From conversation, I could not but indulge a hope, that (iod had shown George the ini(piity of his heart. " At my next visit Vanderpool lianded me his Bible, and directed my attention to these words — ' Come unto mc all yc iJiai labour and arc heavy laden, and J will '^ive you rest.'' ' Tiiis,' said he, ' suits my case.' AVIiile the tears were gushing from his eyes. KARIIATIVE OF CEOUGK N'ANDKRrOOI.. 2'i7 he exclaimed, ' O that the Saviour wotild fLilfil this proniise to nie, nncJ give ine rest in his merry, then I wouhl rather die than live, though I iniist he hinig.' His ^riff was so overwhehniiii^, that I immediately oflcred a prayer to the liOrd, ibr nicrfy to the sOul of this unhai)i)y yotnig man. " When ] saw him on the folkjwing day, A'andcr- pool said, ' [ was reading the account of the death of ('hrist, and took notice of his njcrcy to the ]>enitont thief, which encouraged me to pray ihat tiie liord woiiUl remember mc too.' As soon as George cottid recover liis fcehngs, he adverted to a sermon I had I'.^nt liim, preached in the State-Prison, (1815,) on t!ie death of an unfortunate youth; which he said more than any thing else convinced him of tlie necessity of sincere repentance in the sight of God. I left him with prayer, apparently more sensible than at my former visit. " The time appointed by the judge for the execu- tion of these two criminals, now drew near. Van- derpool said, ' To-morrow will be my last Sabbath day on earth, and I pray to God, it may be the best day I ever had. O, Sir, come and see us to-morrow. Though 1 look forward to my execution on Friday, I wonder how it is, I feel so resigned — I am sure it must be from God. 1 can now with good confidence; rej)eat that text you read to me last week — ' Info thy hand I commit mij spirit: thou liast redeemed me, () Lord God oftriifh.^ Psahn xxxi. 5. And here 1 u ish to rest. May these be my last words.' " Before 1 left the room, Frazer said to mc, ^ I am more sorry for George than for myself. For ho did not attempt to set fire to any place ; he did not give any assistance, nor did he take any jjlunder.' " Tuesday morning, while 1 was jircsent, the mo- thers of tliese young men came to take their last I'are- well of their sons. A scene this, which it is eepially impossible for mc to describe, or ever to forget. 238 NARRATIVE OF GEORGE VANDERPOOL. " On Wednesday the high sheriff put into my hand a document, which he had just received from his Ex- cellency Daniel D. Tompkins, Governor of the State of New-York, stating, that in the exercise of the par- doning power vested in the executive, lie had com- muted the sentence of George Vanderpool to confine- ment in tlie State-Prison during his natural life. This was in consequence of my communicating to the (iovernor facts, which demonstrated the dili'erenco between the two culprits, and recommending Vander- pool to his clemency. For this result of my exertions to save a human being from death, I shall always feel grateful to God. " By appointment, I met the Sheriff, with the other officers, at the Bridewell, on the following day, for the purpose of separating Vanderpool from his chains and from his fellow-prisoner. As it was deemed proper not to communicate the good news to him until he could be removed into an adjoining room. It is natural to suppose, that the sudden and unexpected operation of knocking off his chains, threw him into considerable agitation. When conveyed from his cell, he was informed of the Governor's clemency, on condition of perpetual imprisonment, which of course he thankfully accepted. Fermission was then granted to him to return to the cell, and take leave of the miserable Frazer — the parting on both sides was ex- tremely affecting. A coach was immediately pro- vided, and without binding the prisoner, either with chains or cords, I accomi)anied the Sheriff, to lodge the young man within the walls of the State-Prison. " On the entrance of Vanderpool, he appeared to possess an unusual mixture of feeling. He was hum- ble, thankful, solemn, and devout. From the head kecjier and others, he received congratulations on liis unexpected escape from death, accompanied with suitable iiddresses, calculated to increase his gratitude to God, and to teach him the great obligation he was NARRATIVE OF GKORGE VANDLRPOOL. 239 under, to observe a correct course of conduct, in con- finement. And it is but justice to say, that during; hid residence within the walls of the prison, for four years and nine months, he conducted Iiimsclf with that pro- priety, which secured the entire approbation of his keepers, and the good will of all his unfortunate com- panions. From repeated conversations with him, it appeared evident that his hope' in Christ continued to be firm ; and that notwithstanding the temptations %vhicli surrounded him, it was his constant prayer and only consolation, to walk humbly with God. " One day, while in tlie yard with him, lie said, ' 1 cannot forget God's nicrcy to me when 1 was in the Bridewell. It was great that he should save my life, but a great deal more that he should save my soul. I cannot forget how resigned I felt ; and the hope and peace I had in the Saviour, when I looked for nothing else but to be hung. I often wish 1 had the same very happy feelings now; but I am thankful that 1 can still trust in the Lord Jesus Christ.' " For several months, the health of Vanderpool visibly declined, and finally teiminated in consump- tion. This made it necessary for him to enter the prison hospital, where I had frequent and satisfactory conversations with him. •' On Wednesday, the 12th of September, I found him in bed, very ill, but perceived no symptoms which indicated a speedy dissolution. After some inquiries concerning the state of his mind, he assured me that it was perf telly conij)0!>cd . ' That sweet text,' said he, ' that you gave me in the Bridewell, I can still repeat it with confidence — ' Tnfo tJty hand J com- mit my spirit : thou hast rcdcc?iicd me, O Ijord God of truihJ' I feel submissive to the Lord's will — all my desires are to him.' Then looking at me with a solemn countenance, he said, ' Sir, 1 am certain that the day before I was to have been executed, I en- joyed so much mercy and peace in my Saviour, that if 1 had been hung, my soul now would be happy with ■240 EXTRAORDINARY AMOUNT OF LABOUR. my God, ill heaven. I encouraged his liopc, and comfoiteil his iiiiiul, by assuring him that God wa.-? ever faitht'id, and that he had said ' / will never leave thcc, nor forsake thee.'' Wlien, on his request, I had oifered a prayer, with his hands clasped, he said — ' RIy God, let thii j^rayer be fulhllcd on me.' Late in tiie evening of this (lay, George, unexpectedly, and without a groan-, sunk into the arms of death, aged tvvcnty-iivc years. Thus, may we not say — ' Is not iliia a brand yluekcd out of the fire ?' " " Now Satan thou liast lost tliy aim, Against this brand thy threats are vain ; Jcjus has pluck 'd it iVoni the fiame, And who shall put it in again ?" — Ncieton. " Friday, the 1st December. Spent about an hour with Gabriel Tlornan, a Jew, born in Poland, aged seventy. He is now convinced of the necessity of em- bracing Christ as the 3Iessiah." During the month of August, Mr. Stanford preached sixtii-six sermons. December 31st. In this place it may not be im- proper to state, that from a document now before us, in the hand writing of our venerable friend, it ap- pears, that in the space of fifteen years, in the hu- mane and criminal institutions in our city, he preached an average of Fouii hundred and ninety-sevkih sermons each year, or uiorc than nine each week. This fact, if contcm|datc(l in connection with his ad- vanced age, and almost innumerable other duties, presents an instance of ministerial zeal and diligence which has few parallels in this or any other country. But even this amoimt of labour was transcended during the year 1820. On the last day of this year, he remarks — "Blessed be the name of the Lord my God for his abundant mercy in sparing me another year, and enabhng me to preach six hundred and ticenft/ times, or, eleven and a half sermons each week." CHAPTER Xlil. nV REQUEST OF TJIT. COINIMON COUNCIL, MU. STANFORD AOAI.V VrSITS THE PUI5LIC INSTITUTIONS IN NEW-JEUSEY AND PENNSVI-VANIA CONSTITUTION OF THE SOUTH BAP- TIST CHURCH LETTER FROM REV. DR. COX INDEFATIGA- BLE LABOURS. On tlic 1st of January, 1821, Mr. Stanford remarks: — " I have commented this year under great depres- sion of mind, yet anxious still further to devote myself to the service of God. Like the proj)het of old, while I place the sacrifice upon the altar, the unclean birds of wandering thought attempt to settle upon it, and it is with great difficulty they are driven away. May the Lord make me what he would have me to be, and render my feeble services a blessing to my fellow- creatures." In the month of May, Mr. S. left home at the particular request of the Common Council of New- York, for the purjiose of examining the state of the prisons in New-Jersey and Pennsylvania, and of re- porting such facts as in his opinion might be calculated to improve the })enitentiary system in this city. To facilitate the objects of his mission, the Mayor of New-York was directed to furnish him with a suitable introduction to the municipal officers of Philadelphia. A short time after his return, Mr. S. presented to the Corporation, a written report of his mission, which was printed by order of the Common Council. This is a valuable document, and although it would preserve the record of several interesting facts connected with the history of American prisons, we regret that the want of room, will not permit us to give an extract in this place. 21 :dv^ SHORT si:rm()Ns. On September the 3d, Mr. Stanfurd was nttacked by a violent bilious fever, which contimicd for rnanv days; but in the midst of his suffering, he was heard to say, " ' Father, glorify thine oicn name,'' — let this affliction terminate in the glory of God, and the future benefit of my people." On the 20th of October, he says : — " The Lord has assisted me to preach one hundred and sixtiz-mx sermons during the last three months!" It may j)erhaps be said, that his sermons were short. This is true ; they did not often exceed thirty-five minutes ; but this is to be regarded as a commenilabie excellence, wor- thy of iuiitnlion. Mr. S. so far as we are able to judge from his manuscripts, early habituated himself to the sententious and brief, rather than the diffusive method of preaching. In this he judged correctly, that public speakers arc thereby preserved from tliat preuiature oblivion into which a jjrolix preacher is in great danger of sinking. He used to say to his stu- dents in divinity: — " Never go into the })ulpit without having something to say ; and be very careful always to stop when you have done." The following anecdote is peculiarly characteristic. In his thirteenth lecture on the composition of ser- mons, after many very judicious remarks, he says: — *' I cannot (Icny myself the pleasure of stating, that many years ago, 1 met with a ])lain, yet good old minister, who, in conversation with me, on the subject of the composition of a sermon, very pleasantly said: — ' I know of no better rule, than the proportions ob- servable in the structure of the human body. Let your introduction be short, like the head of the man, round, and full of expression. Make uj) the body of your sermon, of the solids of divine truth ; but be sure that Christ be the heart, and the Spirit of God, like the lungs, to produce respiration. The legs, to run after every class of your hearers; and a pair of arms tenderly to embrace them.' This may appear to you FUNERAL OF JOHN WITIIINGTON. 243 a littlo fcincirul, but I must confess, however singular tho description, yet, to tny mind, it seemed worthy of being remembered." January 1st, 1822. " Before 1 arose," says Mr. S. " this New- Year's morning, the following text was impressed upon my mind, as a word for the year. ' Most, gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infir- mities, that the poiver of Christ may rest upon me.^ 2 Corinthians xii. 9. Not my sinful infirmities, but those of age, sickness, afliiction, and labour; that the power of Christ's presence, grace, and love, may rest upon me, to promote my sanctification and usefulness to the end of my days. So let it be, O Lord !" In the Annual Report of the Inspectors of the State-Prison, j)resented to the Legislature of this State in 1822, we find the following commendation of our venerable friend. " The morals of the prisoners continue to be watched by the Rev. John Stanford, whose works of love manifest that he has imbibed much of the spirit of his divine Master. Under his superintendence, the elementary branches of education still continue to be taught — convicts are employed as teachers,_and a spirit of emulation is manifested, worthy of better circumstances." Monday, the 28lh. He visited, for the first time, the new Lunatic- Asylum, erected about eight miles from this city, where he recognised a number of un- fortunates of both sexes, to whom he had before administered the consolations of the gospel, and who expressed much satisfaction in again seeing him. On the 28th of March, he delivered an address at the funeral of his long tried friend Mr. John With- ington, a much beloved and lamented deacon of the Oliver (formerly Fayette) street IJaptist Church. This good man, while living, was liberal and open handed ; and at his death he consecrated more tlian flFTV THOUSAND DOLLARS tO piouS purpOSCS. 244 THE SOUTH BArTIt;T CHURCH. Tuesday, the 25tli of April. He says: — " In the morning I preached in the Bridewell, and afterwards attended the constitution of the South Bajjtist Church in Nassau-street, consisting oi' twelve meinhcrs, under the pastoral care of the Ilev. Charles G. Soinmers."* Wednesday, the iOth of .lane. He rode to the Orphan-Asyliun, and at one o'clock delivered an ad- dress, with other religi(v.is exercises, at the laying of the corner-stone of a new wing to the building. t * In the prosperity of this church, Mr. Stanford felt a deep interest ; and the recollection of his unwavering friendship, is cherished by every member, with gratitude and affection. The elegant Bible and Hymn Book, now in the pulpit of the South Baptist Church, were presented by Mr. S. as an expression of his attachment. t The following is an extract from the address above alluded to : — '' This morning, may not tiie orphans' friends exclaim, ' According to this time, ichat hatji God icrouglit !' From the conmiencetnent of this in- stitution, in the year ]8(JG, when the J.ord opened tlio hearts ol' a few benevolent females, will) a design' to rescue ilitherless and motherless children from poverty and distress, how many lia\e been the favours which the Almighty has l)estovved, and how richly has he crowned their efforts with success ! Wiio can behold that Okphav House, which, through the aid of a generous public, was erected, and has still been sup- plied, amidst scenes of discouragement, without indulgiug the most grateful reflections on the kindness of Providence? We are now assem- bled to witness a fiesh instance of the kind hand of the orphans' heavenly Father, by being enabled to commence the erection of a Wing to the building, for the greater acconnnodatioii of the increasing family ; and to offer our fervent prayer to the IMost High God for its comjiletion. " Upon this occasion, let us not forget to strew a few grateful flowers upon this corner-stone, in remembrance of those departed female wor- thies, who, after having laboured with us for many years, and witnessed the prosperity of this humane institution, have ascended to the regions of a blissful innnortality. — One (lower, in memory of Mrs. Sarah Hoffman, who was niany years its first directress; another, for the a eiierabic Mrs. Graham; another, for Miss Isaiiella W. Ogden. secretary to the board; and another, for the late i\lrs. Startin. How deliglitfuliy the fragrance of their virtues and benevolence still continues to perfunje this Orphan- Aayhim ! Ungenerous would it he in us, upon this occasion, not to pro- nounce, with gratitude, the worthy name of Jacob SlKMicd, Ilsc]. by wluiso liberal bequest oi Jicc lliousattd dollars, this wing is inlended to be erected, and inscribed to his memory. To you, Lahiks, who are still permitted to live as guardians to these helpless children, what a pleasing sensibility must you feel in rellecting on the many instances of divine bencfidence which have attended your labours. Next to this, is the pious example of your depru-ted associates; which, upon this occasion especially, will not fail to ■ ■ ■ • '• ■■ . surroun'J incite you to unwearied exertions in favour of the children IhatnoxT und you — for, ' Btnsscd are they who consider the poor and needy.' " LETTf.R FROM THE REV. DR. COX. 245 Lard's day mornini^, July 14th. lie says : — " I had much tVoedoin in prcjicliing in the (.'ily-lIosj>ital, from James ii. 23." The lucid and scriptural c.vj)osition of this pissai^e, orii^iiially su^-i>estcd to his mind, in a conversation with the llev. Dr. Cox, has been kindly furnished in t!ie following letter. '' New- York, Jans Wh, 1834. *' Ri:V. A\l) DE\R .S!R, '•1 have received your request, that I would con- tribute something in the way of anecdote or incident, touching my acquaintance with the late Rev. John Tli3 misnn^ w^re raqaesteJ to prepare the corner-stone. With the customary cereiuoay, the ilirectresses present laid it iu its place. The orph:u» children in tlij yard, who were arranged around the spot, were ujxt addressed. •• Chilurkx. — You, this morning, witness a new instance of the Al- mighty's kinduiiss, by preparing additional means for your accommoda- tion. By tins increased expense, you must be convinced how much the public, and your indidgent directresses, are interested in your welfare. They are not only solicitous to provide for you a shelter, with"" necessary food and clothing, but also with that portion of learning, which may con- duce to your personal benefit, and future usiifulness in society ; especi- ally, to give your tender minds that nural and religious instruction, which, we hope, God will bless for your present and future happiness. How important is it, that you now, • Remember ijoiir Cicator in the days uf your yjttlli, white tlic evil days come not, nor tlic years draw nigh, when you shidl say, I h-ioc no pleasure in them.' Many of you may bo permitted to arrive at manhood; and when you enter into the |)ublic paths of life, surely you will not forget your obligation for the many kindnesses you have received in this orphan family. Nor will you easily forget the plea- sure you this morning enjoy, as witnesses to the laying of this corner- stone ; which, no doubt, will increase your gratitude to God, as the orphans' guide and friend. " It is presumed that you, the Workmen engaged in erecting this building, will cultivate a generous feeling upon the occasion. Possibly you may litive families and children of your own; and as the time of your death is uncertain, they also may be left orphans, and need aa asylum among the children that now surround you, we indulge a cheer- ing confidence in your fidelity and energy while pursuing the present design. Let rao likewise remind you, that you have souls to be saved or lost. Fly then to the arms of that compassionate Saviour, who alone caa give you rest, peace, and blessedness, in the cheering hope of entering into that ' house not made witli hands, eternal in tiie heavens.' " The sers'ices were concluded with a fervent and peculiarly appropriate prayer. 31* 246 LETTER FROM THE REV. DR. COX. Stanford, D. D., which might in any degree vary the contents, and possibly enrich the interest of the me- moir, whici), at the assignment and desire of surviv- ing relatives of the deceased, it is your ofHeeand yQur purpose to prepare. Sincerely do 1 wish that my knowledge of that venerable man had been so exten- sive or intimate as to warrant me, with confidence, to comply, according to the full measure of your wishes. " We occasionally, and even frequently., nset, in scenes and relations where personal familiarity was mainly precluded; but never where the respect and reverence, which his personal character inspired, were not welcomed and acknowledged. His life was of an even tenor, with that ' meek and quiet apiril, which is in the si^ht of God of great j;r/t'c.' Hence, while he was so extensively, I might say universally, revered in our city, his life seems to have passed with few of those great events which emblazon the name of their subject, attract the notice of mankind, and si)eak to the wonder of posterity. His honours came from God. They belong to another v.orld. They budded in time, but their bloom is in eternity. "I will only rehearse, from imperfect memory, an incident which endeared Di'. Stanford to my esteem; and which, while it indicated his character, is surely adapted to be useful. Its example may attract imi- tation — its temper may teach mankind — its sentiment may benefit the soul — its story will be grateful to the Christian. *' On a melancholy occasion, some years since, I was sent for, to visit a poor felon in chains, and then condemned to expiate, on the gallows, the critnc of murder. Such scenes have always been to me so trying, that never, for their own sake, could I get my own consent to visit them. In this instance the re- quest was special, and the obligution apprehended. It was winter ; dreary seemed the aspect of nature that day; and drear and wintry were n)y feelings, in LETTER FROM THE REV. DR. COX. 247 sympathy witli the condemned fellow-creature with wiioni 1 expected soon to confer, respecting his im- mortal interests, and the foundation of his liope for the hastening wonders of another world. On enter- ing the antechamber of his prison, I found that the main keeper was absent, and his subaltern, the turn- key of the place, had no instructions that would con- sist with permission to introduce me to the gloomy apartment. The alternative was to wait the return of the keeper. I had scarcely taken my seat, near the fire, for this purpose, when Dr. Stanford appear- ed, liaving arrived there with a similar design towards nmny prisoners, in prosecuting the duties of his of- ticial station. He sat near me, and, as both waited, we conversed on different tO})ics for a length of time. This was the longest and the most interesting inter- view I ever remember to have enjoyed with your venerable friend and mine. I was struck with his knowledge of the peculiarities, and the personal history seemingly of each of the miserable inmates, as an object of liis pious care. He very lucidly ex- plained the evil merits of the felon with vvhoiii I was lo converse, interspersing such correct and Christian counsels as seemed suited to his deplorable condition. He was to die in a day or two, and no reprieve was expected or ultimately obtained. He had liimself justly abandoned a hope so unhappily illusive to many in liis circumstances. 1 listened with interest to the observations of the good old man, that 1 miglit learn something of the duties I was soon to perform, and ])repare myself for their competent discharge. After analyzing the whole case very properly and well, his remarks naturally glided into gen(M-al truths or ^re- flections of a kindred sort, that might suit and profit all men. " The importance of prejiaration for dcoth ; (he greatness of such an attainment ; its probable infre- (jucticy ; the substitutes and specious delusions of sin- 248 LETTER FllOM THE REV. DR. COX. ners ; and the special liableness of a felon, in the time of liis extremity, to mistakes and perversions of a peculiar character. These were some of the allied topics, from which the transition was easy, to a con- templation of what it was to be prepared. This he familiarly and happily showed, by the adduction of a very appropriate passage of scripture, and by its fa- miliar and ready expansion and use. That passage I distinctly remember, and also the manner in which he treated it. It was the declaration contained in James ii. 23 — Concerning the father of the faith- ful, and happily evincive of the piety of that noble patriarch in its nature and relations — ' And the scrip- ture was fuIJU'ed, which saith, Abraham believed Gody and it was imputed unto him for righteousness ; and. he was called the friexd of God.' It was the last sen- tence mainly on which he laid the stress of his views ; and his position, as I recollect, was substantially this, * He only is prepared for death, who is the friend of God.'' lie indeed referred expressly and well to the medium of reconciliation, and the way of attaining it, through our Lord Jesus Christ; while the force of his observations affected more the fact of it, as iden- tified with friendship so divine. He remarked, that a sinner, as every one is by nature, can be justified only by faith in Jesus Christ, and thus having righte- ousness imputed unto him, he is accepted as righteous in Christ, who is ' the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.^ Yet while he clearly made this averment, respecting the only possible and the thrice glorious method of a sinner's justification before God, I was pleased, 1 own, to listen to the positions as quickly subjoined, redounding to the prostration of all anti- nomianism; namely, that no man was sojustified who was not the friend of God ; that no man was the friend of God, who was not so justified ; that this was happi- ness and holiness, as well as justification ; that this, and this indispensably, constituted preparation for LETTKIl FROM THE RF.V. DR. COX. 249 death; that heaven itself wonhl l)e as disa^reeahlc, as impossible, without it ; that those were fi\ed princi- ples, and revealed ones loo, in tlic divine eoonainy ; and that we, who view^ed ourselves as the distinguish- ed subjects, through grace, of such a blessed trans- formation, would necessarily show it in all ap[)topri- atc ways, especially in that exalted and divine one, of imitating Christ and God, in endeavouring to l)ring others to its incomparable acqui.'»ition and experience. " After this general or large expatiation on the theme, he seemed to fix his view more narrowly and analytically on the idea of — being the friend of God. I thought, at first, from a professional sympathy, that probably he had just been preaching on it, and there- fore was especially impressed with the subject, liut more reflection changed the opinion. lie seemed rather struck and penetrated at the time, with that unlimited and identifying characteristic of Abraham, as descriptive of the genuine Christian, common to the whole church invisible, and demonstrative of the communion of saints ; and 1 judged him rather as pur- posed or inclined to preach on it in future, than to have summoned from the reminiscences of past ser- vice the relics of a sermon. As nearly as I can now remember, he spoke of it as suggesting a very profit- able train of thought for a popular discourse, and also proposed impromjjtu an elligible plan, much in the following style of converse propositions and ready antithesis. At all events, his felicity of varying the aspects of the subject was usefid to myself, in the way at. least of impression and retention in regard to it. " What is it to be l/ie friend of God? " What, for God to be our friend .'' " What relation has this friendship existing in cither party towards the other, to reciprocity and mu- tual perfect ness f " What is preparation for death, as related to this friendship P 250 LETTER FROM THE REV. DR. COX. " How many are probably prepared on this prin- cij)le ? " How many are probably deluded ? " Wiiat is the condition of the enemies of God ? " What will become of any or all of us, if we live and die without bein<^ each tlie friend of God'^ " What is the nature of our faith in God, throurrssors shall he destroijeil together ; the end of the leieked ahull be cut off. But the sal cation of the righteous is of the Lord : he is their strength in time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver thetn: he shall deliver them from the icickcd, and save thou, because tJirjj trust in him.'' " Tliat cnch of us, my respected brother, may be the friend of God not only, but our offspring and our |)eople with us, and ourselves instrumental in con- ciliating thous:inds of others, is th.e prayer of your friend and brother in the Lord Jesus Christ. " SAMUEL H. COX." Lord's day, December 1st. Pilr. S. says: — " In the four sermons j)reached this day, I was greatly assisted by the Lord. In prayer I was indulged with a great degree of holy communion with my God. Indeed, I would rather enjoy liberty in prayer than in preach- ing, yet I find they generally go together. The after- noon's discourse was on the death of Diana Selliclc, whom, some years ago, I was the instrument in gaving from the gallows."* * Tliis is tlie second instaiicf; in which the clear-sighted and dipcrimi- nalin^ aiind of l\Ir. Stanford enabled hini to investigate the circumstances ppon which the capital conviction of two criiiiinals had been predicated, and iu which, by ilHciting facts, that had before escaped notice, he was enabled to obtain for them the clemency of the Execntive ; and thus be- came the instruinent of saving not merely their natural life, but their •ouU, as they were both converted to God undjr his subsequent ministry. CHAPTER XIV. f;OMMEXC:r:S the YF.AU under. IMKxXTAL depression ItE' SOLVES TO LAISOUJI WITH INCREASING DILIGENCE DAN- OLUOl.S ILLNESS — DEATH OF WILLIAM STANFORD EXPLO" SION OF THE STEAM-BOAT .ETNA MEMORIAL. January 1st, 1823, Mr. Stanford remarks ;—" This year commenced without that full degree of humble and spiritual desire towards the Lord which my heart auticijiated. The weather was dark and stormy — too much resembling the state of my heart. Time with me cannot but be short. May the ].iOrd make me useful while I live, and faithful until I die, and then in mercy, through a gracious Redeemer, receive my soul into hisj'est for ever." Mr. Stanford to the Hon. Nicholas Brown, A. M. '' Neif-York, Avgnsi 2Sth, 1823. " MY \\T.M\ FRIEND, " This afternoon Mr. Barnes handed me your letter, dated the 2Ctl), and which demands my most affec- tionate and early acknowledgments. Gratified sliould [ be to accept your friendly invitation to your house, at the commencement, and the Warren Association ; but the time is so short, and few of the clergy of any denomination being in town at this season, I am unable to ])rocnrc adc(inate suj)plies to attend my eigiit congregations, in the event of my absence. The Honourable the Blayor and Corporation of this city have e.\j)ressed a wish, that I would visit Boston this fioason, for the purpose of examining all their public institutions, with the design of improving our own. Should the God of mercy enable me to comply LF.TTER TO THK HO.\. NICHOLAS BROWN. 263 with your request, it would alVord me peculiar plea- sure to <;ee you on the way- " Will you bciu" with me in my folly, if folly it may he called? Your letter produced a train of reflections, which carried me back at least thirty years. Your family, your honoured father, INicholas, Obadiah, Hope, and Tommy Ives ; the church, the college, the town, and its poor: ah! the remembrance of all these rushed upon my mind so forcibly, that I could not withhold the falling tear. Yes, I did love you — I tried, in the strength of my God, to promote the general good-^I love you still, and pray for the blessing of my Lord to rest upon you all. Yes, those days and those connexions still survive in my heart, and my earnest prayer shall be continued, that the choicest personal and social blessings may rest upon you. " I have heard so much of the extensive improve- ments of the college, through your munificence, that, I must confess, 1 have often indulged a strong desire again to see that noble, and now magnificent institu- tion. As for my old acquaintance in the town, I presume few are now in the land of the living. Still, if favoured with an opportunity, I should like to em- ploy a day, in once more walking in the streets of Providence, and expressing my good wishes for the prosperity of its inhabitants. *' With sincere regards, your's, " JOHN STANFORD." While in Philadelphia on a visit, in August, Mr. S. remarks: — "This evening my James offered the family prayer." This was a young lad whom Mr. S. liad taken out of the Poor-House to serve as a do- mestic, and for whose conversion it pleased God to bless the religious instruction imparted in the family. His case was quite remarkable; possessed of talents far above mediocrity, and embued wiih the spirit of 22 254 CONCERN FOR THE WELFARE OF MARINER a most exemplary piety, it is not surprising that he was, like others, through Mr. Stanford's instrumen- tality, rescued from moral degradation and poverty, and restored to virtue and prosperity. September 2Gth. Mr. S. writes : — "It has j)ieased God, this montli, to lay upon me his atflicting hand, and many of my friends resigned all hope of my recovery. A severe affection of the chest ol)liged me to maintain a sitting posture both day and night* The physician? in attendance could afford but little relief; but that blessed Lord, who always appoints the means adapted to the end, unexpectedly furnished me with a remedy from Dr. Alexander U. Stevens, which produced the most beneficial effects. May the Lord so sanctify this visitation, that if spared a little longer, it may bo to his glory and the good of my fellow-creatures." He so far recovered from this severe indisposition, as to be able to resimie his active duties, and we find him recording in his diary, at the end of the succeeding month, this extraordinary fact — " This month, to me has been a season of great pain, and great mercy, so that i have been enabled to preach fftij sermons, besides performing a large amount of other duty." Mr. Stanford's concern for the welfare of seamen, was evinced as early as the year 1815, by the follow- ing article, printed in the Mercantile Advertiser. It is here inserted without reference to date. '' To Shipping Merchants and of hers, whom this may concern. «« GENTLEMEN, " As by the favour of the Almighty, we are now emerging from the horrors of war, and the consequent devastation upon commerce, it becomes the duty, especially of pid)lic citizcms, to make every exertion which may tend to improve the blessing of peace. Among the numerous subjects which now demand ANOTHER BENKVOLKiNT PLAN PROrObED. 255 our attention, the improvement of navigation and commerce must be deemed of the highest importance. It is presumed, that under this impression the Pre- sident of the United Slates, in a message to both houses of Congress, has recommended to their con- sideration, as a means of ' cultivating harmony with other nations,' the poHcy of exchiding foreign sea- men, and navigating American vessels exchisively by American seamen, either natives, or such as are ah'eady naturahzed. What measure Congress rnay adopt at a future period, to bring this into effect, is uncertain. But, it is certain, that in proportion to the increase of commerce will be the demand for able mariners, and means should be pursued in order to produce them. " Strong exertions have been made, and are still making, to train up youths both for the defence and the honour of America; and these are under the immediate superintendence of the general naval de- partment. *' Commerce must be maintained by seamen pro- duced from other sources, and by a different method; and I am the more explicit in this address to the in- liabitants of New-York, as this city takes the highest rank among the commercial cities of America. " To you, therefore, gentlemen, as merchants, and the most deeply interested in the improvement and increase of commerce from this port, 1 beg leave to suggest the utility of establishing a Public Marine School, for the improvement of those who are inclined to sea service ; which may speedily promise a greater supply of able American seamen, and, of course, preclude the necessity of taking foreign cap- tains or sailors into the merchant service. I would respectfully recommend — " That for this bovjicial jntrpose, a society of meV' chants be formed — the school to be a permanent estab- lishment ; and the uhole to be under ike cxchsive 256 IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATING SEAMEN^ government of a hoard of directors, or governors, an- 7iuaUt/ elected hy Ike sociely. " Let merchants who are impressed with the utility of such an institution, devote an hour for the consideration of the proposed object, whether for its rejection or its promotion. On the plan, order, government, resnin-c(!S, anJ a|)piication of funds, though I niigiit ofler sonse fjeneral oui lines, it is noi my province piroiicly to coaimunicale them. How- ever, I will venture to say, in relation to teachers for a Marine School, it has many years been n)y impres- sion, that, experienced sea captains, disabled by age or by misfortune, are the most eliijible, and the com- pensation allowed them may contribute to make them a ' snug harbour.' Wliethor this school be free or not, provision should be made for a certain number of boys, inclining to the marine life, whose parents are or have been captains or pilots, especially in our waters, but who are now unfortunately reduced in health or circumstances; that such youths be educated gratuitously. Thus public benefit and benevolence would happily combine. " Should this recommendation meet with appro- bation, and be adopted, it is possible that your ex- ample may be followed by other cities and large towns immediately concerned in commerce; consequently the object will become more extensively beneficial. At any rate, those whom you may educate, would more immediately be considered as your own sailors ; and, of course, be more attached to your service and interest. " It is only necessary, g(!ntlemen, for me to add, that this addroKS is from the pen of a citizen, whose public station in life perfectly excludes him from the shadow of sus|)icion of any further benefit from the subject than the gratification of contri- buting, in some small degree, to the interests of the community. " AMERICUS. LETTER FROM CAPTAIN PERRY, U. S. N. 257 " P. S. Insurance companies, unquestionably, will be highly interested in the proposed institution. For it will not be denied, that many a vessel has been lost for the want of able navigators; as, on the death of the cajitain and mate, no j)er!r;on on board was found competent to take the command. On the part, therefore, of the merchant, and the company, this object may produce incalculable advantages." The following letter from the brother of Commo- dore Perry, will be read with interest, and, at the same time, furnish an additional e\ idcnce that Mr, Stanford's eftorls were not limited. lie seems to have regarded the whole world as the field of his labours. Ncw-Yorh, January 26th, 1824. *' REV. AM) DEAR SIR, " I acknowledge, with great pleasure, the receipt of your valuable communication of the 24th instant, and feel highly gratified with your approbatory re- marks, in favour of my plan for introducing appren- tices into our naval service. I agree most cordially with you. Sir, that it ' i)romiscs the uu/j/ wa} to pro- cure a succession of able sailors for the navy,' and must (shoidd the plan be adopted,) prove an incalcu- lable benefit, not only to our maratime prosperity, but to the community at large, more especially to the population of our lari^e cities. " I see no reason why ' Court-Boys,' as they are termed, should be excluded from the advantages of the arrangement. For should their vicious propensities prevent their rising above the rank of a common sailor, even in this station they would be extremely useful to the country. But, it is to be hoped, that the application of the sound and wholesome discipline of our navy, would have a tendency to check, if not entirely eradi- cate, those juvenile faults, which, in most instances, grow out of idleness and the neglect of parents. a 268 DEATH OF WILLIAM STANFORD. " The generally received oj)inion of landsmen, that a ' vessel of war' is a receptacle of vice and wicked- ness, is founded in error. Shut up as the crew must be, in a small compass, at all times under the watch- ful and superintending eyes of their otficers, who are clothed with almost unlimited power to punish every violation of dist-ipline, it is impossible for them to in- dulge their evil propensities; anil, by turning their attention to the pleasing and active employments of a seafaring life, they will forget their early habits, and learn, at last, the old maxim, that ' honesty is the best policy.^ " I thank you, my dear Sir, for the pamphlets you were good enough to send me. I have perused them with much attention, and am of the opinion that they are admirably calculated to do good aboarpartiire of the ves!=el, opened my f3ible, and then read to the assembled passengers, the words of Job — ' A't) /nan is sure oj life' possibly it might have been deemed premature; each one anticipating: a speedy passage, u safe arrival at the city, and a warm re- ception lo the bosom of their friends. How inscrutable ave the ways of God wit!i man ! Ilov.- nnforeseen are the alternate changes of prosperity and adversity, of life and death, which attend onr paths ! fc'o true it if. ' We know not what a day iiiay hringforth.' " At seven o'clock, just as the sun was withdrawing his beams, and the passengers were within si'iht of the city, and anxious to arrive, the centre boiler, exploded as with the voice of thunder. So tremen- dous was the coiicns.sion, that the deck was torn from its timbers ; ihe various accommodations for passengers were destroyed, and the frag- ment.s scattered in every direciion, exhibiting a spectacle of complete devastation. But what were those, when compared with the horrible destrncliou of human beings ! The iinpetuou.s steam, in its fnry, rushed into the after-cabin, whicli wn.s allotted for tho saf;ty and repose of the femaK) passengers. Several of these were scalded to death, and lay pros- trate in t!ie most shocking condition. " This cabin was not the only place w'oere destruction and misery were produced; the steam in a inom.nnt filled every other apartment, and de- Mtroyed every thing wliich obstruried its course, tfome human beings were externally scalded am! torn, while others still mure unf irtunate, by inhaling the steani, were literally filled witii its direful cfTects, and in- capable of expressing the anguish they endmed. Ti;e cries and shrieks of the sufferers penetrated the sovds of the few on deck wiio had escaped the fiery deluge, and presented to their view a scene more dreadful than language can describe! " The whole number of persons on board the /Etna, is stated to have been thirty-four. " Of those who first fell in death, by this accident, the family of Mr. Job 260 DYING EXPERIENCE OF THE SUFFEIII RS. Wednesday, October 20th, he writes: — " This is my birth-day — arrived at my 70th year. My feelings Furman, well known and respected in this cit\% have been the greatest sufferers. Early in the morning of Satiu'day, Mrs. 8arah Furman, Mrs. Merserole, their daughter, iMary Furman, sistf^r of Mr. Furman, and Miss Caroline Furman, neice of Mr. Fmnian, only ten years ol'age; all these, in the enjoyment of full health, left the city to pay the last expression of friendship, by attending the same afternoon, at Elizabeth-Town, the funeral of Mrs. Prince, who was a niece of Mr. Furman. While at that house of mourning, the inl'uit of the deceased expired. It was immediately dressed in its shroud, and placeil in the cold arms of its mother, ia the same coffin, and both conveyed to the silent grave. Under the solemn influence of this scene of mortality, they entered on board of the ^Ina, no doubt in the expectation of returning in safety to their habitation. We all know the lively emotion whicli expectation inspires for the return of absent friends; and such was the anticipatioii of Mr. F. as the day de- clined. At last the sunset — thecurtain of night dropped — expectation grew stronger, and yielded to impatience — they arrived, not in health and ac- tivity, but fast bound in the fetters of death ; while their mangled bodies exhibited a spectacle too appalling for description Dreadfid was the dome-^tic anguish — deep and heart-rending. A speedy interment wa.s deemed indispensable, and on the next afternoon, the four bodies were buried in one grave. " At ten o'clock on Saturday night, nine of those unfortunate sufferers were brought to tlie door of the Hospital. Some of them, owing to their man£;led condition, were conveyed on litters, and others in coaches. Their agonies and cries broke in upon the stillness of the night, and ren- dered the scene most awfully affecting. J'lvery exertion which humanity or medical skill could devise, were employed for their relief. '• Ann Douglierty, aged about thirty, inhaled a largo portion of steam, and was externally scalded in a shocking manner. Slie, however, wa.s supported by the hand of iier Saviour, and gave a happy evidence of the power of religion, under the sharpest disfiess. As this female died in tho night on which she came in, I am indebted to the women who occupy the same ward, for my information, and from whose testimony the follow- ing statement may be received as correct. Previous to her entering on board the steam-boat, she had an impression u]ion her mind, that she should not live long; and, on taking leave of a (;hrisli:in friend, siie cut off a lock oilier hair, and gave it to her as a memorial of affection, saying, ' I do not expect to see you a'.'ain.' Soon as her wounds were dressed, fihe said, ' I thank (jod for this accident; I shall the sooner go to my heavenly Father's home.' A pious woman went to her bed and asked her, ' Js Jesus, the Saviour, precious lo you?' She replied, ' O, yes, he is precious to me ;' and raising her voice as much as possible, she said ' I want you all to seek and love the Lord.' A little after, she said to one of her attendants, ' I dare not say this is hard, though it may seem so.' This person asked h(!r if she could (Fo any tiling liir her; to which she replied, ' No, the Lord will do all things well for mo.' 'i'he nurse observ- ing the position in which she lay, asked her if her pillow did not .seem hard. With peculiar emfihasis she aiisw(;red. '(), no; Jesus can make ii dying bed feel soft as downy pillows are.' ' I am sorry to sec you suffer A MF-M0R5AL OF I HF. L011I;'ri GOOI-Nr.-.S. 201 on this oi'casion nrc iuini;!f;(i with !iiiini!ltv and ^jnU- tude, but. not a seventieth pjut o(" wliat ! could wish, or what they oa<>lit to be" The. {'ollowifig extrart will more luily disclose the f<,(^!inys of iii.s grateful heart on this occasior.. " A Meniorial of the Lord's GooiJnes?:, written on the day ot'coii)j)!eiing the seventieth year of my age, October 2iilh, l8-2-l~' T/iou hast dealt with thy ser- vant, O Lord, according vnt'o i!iy icord.'' Ftalrn cxix. Go. " I can find no words in tlie peripturcs more ap- propriate as a motto, than that which I have selected from the Psalms of David. They certainly express 80 niHch.' ' Ye.i, Idosuft'c; biU wliat are my suffenngs when com- pared with what Christ eufi'c.ed for us? I am willing to suffer any way my Lord shall please ; and to die any doatli, by which he thinks proper to take me to himself About four o'clock she bepaii to fail, and with soiemn accents said, ' U is ahnost done — it is alnust over!' Speedily after she sunk in the arms of death. Keader, if on the dying bed, coidd you have said so ? Are you prepared thus to meet dcafh ? 'When he comoth, w'ill he find you in your sins, or as liaving fled for refuge to a Saviour's amis ? " The ne.vt case was that of Joseph Stevens, a native of Ireland This unfortunate stranger was so dreadfully scalded, and had inlialed so much steam, that he could merely speak in a whisper. By the dressing he had received, no part of his face was visible but his lips. I took a seat by lii.s side, and tenderly expressed my wishes that (iod might command a bles.^- ing uj)on the means used, with the hope of his recovery; and especially grant him mercy and peace through a blessed Redeemer, whatever might be the issue of his ])resnnt misl'ortiuie. Though the poor creature was pcverely scalded in his throat, he thus expressed the greater agony of his mind. ' O how distressing! (iod has turned his back upon me in thi.s judgment. It is no more than I deserved, for I have been a great sinner.' This was no time for me to probe the man's woiuided-mind deeper, by asking him questions on his conduct, which, under other circumstances, might have been necessary, for death was now evidently approaching. 1 therefore innnediately directed him to the Saviour, and explained to him in what manner God can bestow mercy upon the penitent sinners, through the .suflbrings and death of his Son Jesus Chriord hath numbered my days, and lengtii- ened out my life much beyond the period allotted to any of my family, of whom I have any knowledge, "^i'his preservation I cannot attribute to a firm consti- tution, being in early life rather of a feeble habit, and labouring under those infirmities vvhich, in their very nature, were more likely to shorten than to e?:tend the life of man. " Not one of my associates in youth arc now living.* In my early ministry, I enjoyed a large circle of af- fectionate brethren in Europe; and since my resi,- dence in America, my ministerial connections have been far more extensive; but now, when I look around, I can number only four of my old companions who are yet with me in the land of the living. " I have been assisted to educate a considerable number of pious young men for the gospel ministry; and while more than one half of them have been cut down by death, in the very bloinn of their nseftdncss, the Lord hath spared and continued mc in his service to the present day. '• Having resided in the city of New-York for about forty years, 1 have witnessed many changes among the clergy of all denominations ; and at this time I am not only the oldest minister in the city in point of age, but in respect to ollice. How great, therefore, is the mercy and long-suftering of God to me! May I pos- sess a heart filled with gratitude, in proportion to the favours which 1 have received. " iL In the diversified paths o{ my long life. I have 264 E::.N"KFirs ok affuction acknowledgkd. been led tlii-oiigh forests of afHiction, over hills and mountains of ditiicuity, and sometimes in the pleasant vales of })rospcrit)'. Often ha-ve I proposed the (jiiestion, — Can tins be tlie v*"ay, so ftdl of thorns, so many dangers on either hand, and so many dispen- sations which appear to cross and contradict each other? — -can such ways lead either to usefulness on eaith, or bring me to a peaceful end? But, sooner or later, I have been taught to know, that the Lord, in all these seemingly adverse paths, was dealing well with mo. No other ways could have answered the purpose ; and however crooked they then appeared, now I aiH convinced that they form one straight line of wisdom and goodness. No v.onder that such a sinful creature should need the rod of aiiiiction ; every stroke has been justly merited; and although tlie Lord has often ' shoiced mc hard things, and made mc to drink of the icinc of astonishment,' yet, ' / fniow that his Judgments are right, and that he i:i faithfulness and mercy hath afflicted me.'' As Jacob made a coat of diverse colours, exactly suited to the back of his son Joseph, antl which afterwards proved emblematic of his diversified afflictions, even so the variegated suf- ferings of my life, have [)een fitted to my temper, dis- position, and the many evils which for so many years have lodged in my heart, and often prompted me to depart from that blessed Lord whom I have desired to love and serve. '• HI. Tn my domestic life, and all the concerns of my family, the Lord hath dealt well with me, though 1 have here likewise passed through many checquered scenes. Among these 1 tnay mention, that by the fatal pestilence which ravaged our city in the year J 708, the beloved wife of nsy bosom was torn from my embrace; and, by the same fell disease, I was so nearly reduced to the grave, that all hope of my recovery was abandoned. Yet the Lord reniem- Lrcred mc in my low estate, raised me up from the lilS CHILDREN FKAR THE LORD. 265 gates of death, ami assisted me to bring up my four young children, two sons and two daugliturs. " Altliougii in the beginning of this year, (1824) I n-as deprived of my son WiUiam, by death, in the West-Indies, when in the thirty-first year of liis age, my other chiklren yet Hve, and are settled in circum- stajjcss of comfort and respectability: and, what is still more gratifying to me, they all fear the Lord my Go