Early Life

Our father was born on the 4th of 11th month, 1800, in the house on the main street of Woodbury in which his parents had settled at their marriage. As a boy he was, as I have said, full of spirits and fun, ready for anything and everything that turned up, merry, and loving, and mischievous, and frank, and manly, full of generous impulses, and overflowing with energy and activity. The old inhabitants of Woodbury used to recall many of his daring feats of climbing and hair-breadth escapes with almost a shudder, and our mother says her father once even felt it his duty to call on the family and gravely warn them of the dangers and risks their boy was continually running. We all regret very much that he did not tell us more of the fun and pranks of his boyhood; but I think he never quite approved of them, and thought they were best forgotten. Only a few isolated stories, therefore, have come down to us. Once his brother Franklin, who was several years older, was driving with him along a lonely country road, when our father in some way provoked his older brother. Franklin resolved to chastise him for it on the spot, and jumped out of the carriage to procure a switch

95 for the purpose. But while he was out, Mickle, as our father was called then, seized the reins and drove off” home as fast as he could, leaving his discomfited brother to walk the several miles back, and greaily enjoying the joke himself, although he well knew swift retribution would overtake him upon Franklin’s arrival. At another time he found somebody had made up his bed with some new coarse sheets which were to be softened by use, as was the fashion of those days, and he slyly watched his chance, and changed sheets with those on the bed of one of his sisters, whom he credited with superintending the operation, and greatly enjoyed the commotion in the house when the change was discovered.

It was when he was about fifteen that our grandfather lost a large sum of money in business, and also some property he had in the AVest Indies, and was so much reduced in his circumstances as to be obliged for economy’s sake to remove with his family to a farm they owned a little way out of Woodbury, and to take his boys from school to help him in the farm-work. Our father, as we have seen, never had any opportunity again to attend school, and his education, from this time, came to him in the stern discipline of life, and in contact with men. This seemed like a great loss; and yet I have often thought he would not have been half as delightful a character if he had had a more complete scholastic education. His charming naturalness would certainly have been diminished, and his quaint originality, which was often so mirth-provoking and yet so vigorous, would have been largely lost. But it was wonderful how the strength of his natural capacities supplied the lack of education, where education would have seemed to be necessary. And he himself had so much conscious capacity, that he often made us laugh when we would urge him to read something or to gg somewhere to see some wonderful thing, Ly saying as he sat unmoved in his arm-chair: ‘’Why, children, it is not worth while, for I can think it all.” And his ‘’thinkings” amounted often to so much more than other people’s “learnings,” that I never felt quite sure whether his apparent losses in the way of scholastic training had not been on some accounts his greatest gains. It certainly is refreshing, now and then, as a variety, in this age of extreme culture, to see a man who can be himself, pure and simple, without the hampering bonds of a thorough and complete literary training.

But although thus deprived of a thorough education
himself, he valued it highly for others. He gave his
children the best advantages afforded in our circle, and
always spent his time and money freely in advancing
the interests of education, both in the Society of
Friends and elsewhere.

At the time of the removal of their family to the farm, our f;lther was, as I have said, about fifteen, and was full of activity and energy. He threw himself with great good-will into the farm-work, but longed after a wider sphere, and very soon prevailed upon his father to allow him to go to sea. The taste for this had no doubt been contracted by intercourse with some cousins, named James and Samuel Murdoch, who followed the sea, and who made their home at his father’s house. The fact also that our grandfather owned a shad fishery at Eed Bank, and that it was the yearly delight of the boys to assist at the spring drawing in of the fish, helped to establish his love for the water. His parents, after much persuasion, yielded at last to his ardent wishes, and on 8th month, 18th, 1816, he began his sea-faring life as an apprentice on board the ship William. Savery, belonging to Edward Thompson, Levi Borden, Captain, for a voyage to Calcutta and back. He records in his reminiscences concerning this:

“I was now introduced to a new scene. Sailors are a very rough class of men, and often desperately wicked. There were several lads about my own age of this class, whose example was extremely debasing, and their language profane. Being giddy and full of life, activity, and fun, I. to my sorrow be it said, joined in their foolish talking, jesting, and profanity; but through the adorable watchful care of God our Saviour, I was preserved from greater vices, and to His praise be it ascribed that I never was fond of intoxicating liquors of any kind, nor of tobacco, though the latter was often tried. On one occasion, when a little accustomed to its use, so that 1 could retain a quid in my mouth without losing ray dinner, the thought occurred tome, ‘What a nuisance the practice would be to one’s friends,’ and without further delay, I threw the article overboard and never afterwards resumed its use, which resolution was given, I feel sure, by a kind Providence.”

Our father with his characteristic energy threw himself heart and soul into the duties of his new life, and was foremost among the boys on board ship, in being on hand in all that was to be done. While the other boys would shirk their work, if it were at all possible, he was always ready and eager to take upon himself all that the officers of the ship would permit, and this hearty will to work soon gave him such a character, that when difficult or dangerous duties were to be accomplished he was generally detailed to perform them. This of course gratified his youthful ambition exceedingly, and paved the way for his speedy promotion.

While at Calcutta on this first voyage he records that the cholera broke out, which was its first appearance in India, and several of their crew died, but he himself mercifully escaped. The whole voyage, out and back, occupied more than a year, as they reached Philadelphia again in the 11th month, 1817. In the 2nd month, 1818, he sailed on his second voyage, in the same ship, with the same captain, first to Charleston, where they took in a cargo of cotton, and then to Liverpool, England, from which place they returned to Philadelphia in the 9th month. He says of his stay at Liverpool during this voyage:

“Seamen boarding on shore at Liverpool were exposed at that time to great temptation and bad influences, but through the tender mercy of our Saviour, I was kept from gross vices; to whose Name be all the praise. Sailors have a hard life on ship-board, and when they go on shore they are apt to indulge largely to make up. This was never a temptation to me, thanks be unto God who heareth the prayers of those who look to Him. Not that at this time I was such a one, but my saintly dear mother was. When in Philadelphia my heart was always with the dear ones at home, and no company, however attractive, could supply their place.”

The very earliest letter of our dear father’s that has been preserved, was written on this voyage, while they were waiting at Charleston for their cargo, and I insert it simply on this account. It was written to his sister Hannah:

“Charleston, llth April, 1818.

“Dear Sister: As there is one of our men who has been sick ever since we caiue here, going home in the ship Gen. Wade Hampton, I thought it would be a good opportunity to write to thee, in answer to thy dear scrap, which I received the 18th of March. Thee has no idea how delighted 1 was to hear you were all well. Thee told me not to forget thy flower-pots, &c., &c., if we went to Liverpool. I assure thee there is no danger of it. I hope my dear sister don’t think I am quite such a spendthrift already. Thee also advised me not to use any uncouth words in company with the Miss Clements, for they are nice girls. Thee is right, they are nice, indeed; they are so sociable and polite, it would be impossible for me to think otherwise; and I wish if ever they should come to Woodbury, thee would pay them attention for my sake, but I hope 1 shall have an opportunity ere long to pay them a little attention myself in Jersey. Tell cousin Elizabeth Whitall the Miss Clements send their love, and would like very much to see her.

“I expect uncle has moved to Jersey ere this; when any of you write, tell me about it. I have not received a letter from home since thine and .sister’s, I believe, on the 10th of March, and I am a little out of patience with you all, but I hope I shall receive one containing a great deal of good news. Write it chock full; if thee can’t fill it with sense, till it with nonsense; thee knows I like a little bit of fun now and then by way of relish. I have written live letters to brother, but have received only one; but the brig I first wrote by has come back, and the captain knows Israel, so he can tell me if he is well.

We have not got any of our cargo yet, and I don’t know when we shall. I am really tired of Cliarleston, we have lain here so long. It is almost three months, and I do wish we would go to sea, out of this nasty hole. It is worse after a rain than Woodbury hill used to be in the spring when the frost was breaking up; and if it was not for the politeness of Mr. and Mrs. West, I don’t know what I should do.

One of the boys has just told me that the Wade Hampton is getting her pilot on board. I am sorry for it, for I feel in a good humour to write a long letter. I am well. Give my love to all the family and the pretty girls. I remain thy aflfectionate brother, Firsi-duij morning. MlCKLE.

We have another letter preserved, written a month later, just after their ship had left Charleston, to the same sister, Hannah:

Capes of Charleston, ISlh May, 1818.

“I received thy long letter, my good sister, dated the 18th of April. It was a good while coming, for the one sister Ann wrote, dated the 17th of April, reached me ten days before thine, and I have been a good deal surprised at not receiving any more from any of you. We hauled oft’ from the wharf this morning, and before dark I expect we shall be at sea. We have got thirteen hundred bales of cotton on board, and are bound to Liverpool. It is not known where we shall go from there. If we should go to Canton, thee need not look for thy Liverpool flower pots, but thee may for some Chinese ones, anil mother for her box of first quality tea and some silks. Give my best love to father and mother and sisters, and keep as much for thyself as thee likes. Give my love to all who enquire for me. Tell B. Whitall his foot will feel better when it gets well. West’s family are all well, and send their love. I am in a great hurry. We are getting ready for sea. I remain, thy brother, Mickle.

It was on this voyage, as they returned from Liverpool to Philadelphia, in the summer of 1818, that our father experienced that change of heart, of which the account is given in the preceding chapter. “We can imagine the joy of that dear family at home, when their returning sailor-boy brought them himself the news of the change. The love between his family and himself was very strong, and his sisters all appear to have been devoted to him. As none can wonder who knew the high-toned generosity and sweet natural loveliness and guilelessness of his character.

The testimonial of the captain under whom he had made these two voyages, has been preserved, and is an interesting rehc. It is as follows:

“I do hereby certify that John M. Wliitall sailed in the ship Wm. Savery, under my command, on his first voyage to tha East Indies, in 1816-17, and in the same ship, to Charleston and Liverpool in 1818; during which voyages his conduct was such as to give me the most entire satisfaction. And I do not hesitate to pronounce him one of the smartest young men that has ever come within my observation during the whole course of my life.

Pitlshurg, Oct. 24.th, 1818. Levi Borden.

During his stay at home this time, which was only one month, two circumstances took place which had a marked effect upon his whole after life. One of these occurred one night when he had gone to Trenton, N. J., on some business for his father, and was sleeping at a hotel there. He has told us that he went to his room soon after taking his tea, and before retiring for the night he sat down to wait on the Lord for a little while. His thoughts turned on the subject of the personal and especial providences of God, and the question arose in his mind as to whether the Lord did really care for His people in all the little details of their lives, and take the management of them upon Himself. Unable to come to any satisfactory settlement of the question by reasoning upon it, he prayed for some sign or token from the Lord that it was indeed as he had questioned, and in a little while his heart was made glad by a manifestation of the divine presence, assuring him of the Lord’s interference in all our affairs in a way that from that time he never doubted again. This laid the foundation of that singular simplicity and directness in his dealings with his Heavenly Father, and that unwavering faith in His superintending care that were such marked features of his character.

The other circumstance was the apparently accidental one of his buying at an auction one day, when walking through the streets of Philadelphia, a second-hand edition of ‘’Gruyon on Prayer.” He knew nothing whatever of the book, and bought it at a venture as far as his own consciousness was concerned; but unconsciously guided no doubt by the Lord, whom he had begun so implicitly to trust. He says in his Reminiscences concerning this book:

“It proved to be of the greatest comfort to me. I carried it in my pocket, and at leisure moments read it to my everlasting profit, I trust While at Savannah I was put on the boat’s crew, and we had a hard time of it rowing the captain backwards and forwards from the ship to the town, and waiting for him. But I was favored to have a resource in reading while thus waiting, and I cannot but thank a kind Providence for giving me this blessed book.”

It surely was by no accident that our father thus early in his Christian life was led into an understanding and enjoyment of the simple, yet deep lessons of faith and consecration, which this little book taught him. His whole after experience was moulded by these early impressions, and no doubt we discover in this providential circumstance the secret of his remarkable life of inward communion with the Lord and walking in His realized presence. He valued this book so highly that he always delighted to give it away to his friends, and a copy was put into the hands of each of his children as soon as he thought they were old enough to appreciate it; and I for one can testify to the great value of its teachings in the formation of my own Christian life and character. It was certainly a most unusual occupation for a young sailor boy of eighteen to be employing his time, while waiting in the boat to row his captain to and from the ship, in reading ‘’ Guy on on Prayer,” and one would predict that an unusual Christian character of some sort would necessarily have been the result of such a course.

The writings of Madame Guyon, as well as those of Fenelon, he continued to enjoy to the close of his life. And after he had ceased to be able to read himself, he liked to have them read aloud to him. Fenelon he especially enjoyed the last few years of his life. The copy which he used was valuable to him from associations. It was the one which had been given to his older brother, our uncle Franklin, in early life by his mother, when he was leaving home for some time, with the request that he would read it through once a year, and which had been such a comfort to him during the last years of his life. After his death our father asked for the book, and for the remaining years of his life it was his daily companion also, and except the Bible, was the last book read to him.

One or two incidents of this third voyage are thus
related in his Beminiscences:

“While we remairrid at Savannah on the 17th of 3d month, 1819, the boat in which seven of ns were sailing, including Captain Arnold, upset, and but fur the helping hand of our Heavenly Father, we would most likely have been drowned. But a boat that happened to be in sight came to our rescue, so that we got safely over that trouble, for which praise is due to our Father in heaven. The captain was very much frightened; hut I did not feel so, though I was glad to escape nevertheless.

“When we entered fairly on the voyage from Savannah to Liverpool, one of those providences happened which at the time seemed s-mall, but which to me proved great. The captain and mate differed, and as in most nautical observations, two are required, the captain came on deck, and looking around for another boy older than myself as I supposed, and not seeing him, called me to help him with his observations. This of course pleased me, and as a good opportunity was now offered me, I did not fail to do my btst. And as it pleased my Heavenly Father to help me, the captain employed after this no other assistant. This perfected my skill as a navigator, and eased considerably the hard work I should otherwise have had assigned me. I recollect on one occasion while I was tarring the rigging, the captain called me to assist him, greatly to my comfort and delight.

“At Liverpool we boarded with the same landlady as on the previous voyage. She soon noticed the great change in me, as did others. While here there happened one of those strange affairs that sometimes overtake ns. One of the boys, whose habits were irregular, robbed a shipmate of some clothing, his watch and other things, about which the next day considerable fuss was made. I lodged in the same room where the robbed chest was placed, and on looking around, some of the clothing was found under ray bed. But nobody suspected me, as they all knew that I had money of my own, and was never away from my berth to sleep. The watch was found in a room at a landlady’s where I never stayed. This fixed the theft on the boy, who at last confessed. I mention this to show the value of a good character.

‘’ I was now in my 19th year, and in the hurry and bustle of work did sometimes use a bad word, which caused me grief and distress. But on going to my Heavenly Father with the matter, He told me to pray for help, which I most earnestly did. And praised be the Lord, that temptation was from that time entirely removed, excepting on one very trying occasion, when one single word escaped my lips. This was a striking circumstance, and greatly encouraged and settled me in the practice of waiting upon God for everything, and praying for help in all my troubles.”

We see here that our dear father thus early in his Christian life had already discovered the secret which many are so slow to learn, that the Lord is able and willing to deliver those who trust Him for it, from the power of sin as well as from its guilt. He believed then, and proved it to be true, that the Lord Jesus came to save His people /7’o??^ their sins, not in them, and in all his after life he acted on this belief. No doubt this blessed discovery was thus early made by him, because of the teaching on the subject he had been accustomed to hear from his childhood in the preaching of Friends, as this Society was, in the first instance, especially raised up to proclaim this truth of an indwelling Christ. All his life he had been taught that the object of salvation was deliverance from sin, and not merely from its consequences; and when he had begun to experience this salvation for himself, he expected to get the deliverance. As we see, he was not disappointed. And through all his future he appears to have availed himself continually of this “way of escape.” I do not mean that from this time onward, he never again yielded to temptation of any kind; but his life, as to its general current, and even in most of its little daily details, was certainly singularly free from the ordinary failures of Christians, and there was always about him such an atmosphere of purity and integrity, that one was forced to look for a deeper source than any of the natural graces of his character.

Of his letters written during this voyage two or three have been preserved, and I insert a few extracts as giving such a good insight into his character at this time. To his sister Hannah:

“Liverpool, 2oth May, 1819.” I trust the death of S. L. may be the means of thy not paying so much attention in future to dress, curls, etc., and of giving more heed to Him who is, I believe, calling thee from the vanities of this world. If we believe what the Scriptures tell us, that the Lord has the ordering of all things, we need not trouble ourselves about vanity. I know by experience that it is a hard trial to lay by tilings that will be taken notice of by our acquaintance, for since we came here I have experienced it. Thee knows when I was at home, I used to wear ribbons in my shoes; but last First day I wanted to go to PViends’ meeting, and the old ribbons being broken I thought of buying some new ones. But conscience told me it would be gratifying pride, when I had leather strings in my chest which I had brought from home; so I put them in. It may seem a trifling thing, but I assure thee I had many serious thoughts about it. But praying for strength, the Lord was pleased to give me a resigned heart; and when I think of it, I feel real satisfaction in having overcome pride for once We left Savanna on the r2th of

April, and arrived in Liverpool on the 11th of May. I have received a letter from father of the 7th of April, telling me you were all well, but that the girls were ,so busy that they could not write. I think it must have been a busy time indeed, if thee, or Ann, or Sally, or Elizabeth could not find time to add one line. However, I will excuse you this time, hoping that you will do better in future.

There are so many reports about our sailing, that I

cannot tell when we will.

‘’ Thy affectionate brother, Mickle.”

From Canton he wrote the followinsi; letter to his mother, which is inserted because it gives such a good picture of a voyage to Canton in those days:

‘’ Canton, 31si December, 1819. “My Dear Mother: As I have a few moments to spare, and aa opportunity offers of writing home, I thought it would be indulging in laziness if I did not embrace it. * * * On First day, the Ist of August, 1819, we got under way from Liverpool, and had a remarkably short run down channel and a good wind to latitude 11 ° north, where the trade winds left us. On the 23d of August we fell in with two brigs, which, from their manoeuvres, we thought were privateers. For my part I heartily wished them safely moored in Davy Jones’ Locker, or some other snug place, for we had to bury all our money underneath the ballast, which I assure thee was no very agreeable job; besides the apprehension I wa.’s under that I should be rifled of my money and clothes. However, I believe our man-of-war appearance somewhat daunted them, and besides I thought I could discern the hand of Providence in sending us a fine brisk breeze when we least expected it (for in these latitudes light winds and calms are very prevalent), which soon rid us of our troublesome neighbors. * * * Nothing of consequence happened after this until t’:e 15th of September, when we made the island of Trinidad, in the latitude of 20 ° south. It has a very beautiful appearance at the distance of eight miles. We had a fine opportunity here to correct our dead reckoning, which was not much out of the way. On the 16th we lost sight of the island. We were here put on an allowance of five pints of water per day, until we made the island of Tristan de Acuna, when they shortened the allowance to half a gallon. We made this latter island on the 27th of September. It was very thick weather, so thick that we were all afraid we should run on shore. And I think if it had been dark, nothing but the hand of Providence could have saved us. But, however, about nine in the morning, the fog clearing off a little, we discovered breakers right ahead, and a few minutes after the land was in full view. I assure thee we were very much rejoiced to think we saw the land when we did, for it was but about four miles distant. The top of the island was covered with snow, and down the sides there were numberless streams of water running into the ocean. Thee may be sure we often looked with longing eyes toward that precious article, wishing we had a good drink of it. On the 28tli the island appeared to be sinking fast into the bosom of the Atlantic, until our distance became so great that we could no longer discern it.

‘’Nothing worth noticing happened on our passage around the Cape of Good Hope, until we made the island of New Holland, which was on the 9th of November, ninety-seven days out. We did not go near enough the land to make any remarks. On the 6th we lost sight of that large island, which is famous for being the receptacle of the British convicts, and for its great size. On the 16th of November we made the island of Sandlewood. As nothing of consequence happened to us, I shall not make mention of all the islands we saw, for they are too numerous to be particular in.

“But before I say more, let me make a few remarks on the folly of our troubling ourselves about uncertain calamities. A few days before we made the island of Trinidad, the weather was extremely warm, so that water was more precious than grog, even to our great drinkers; and thee may well know that water is scarce when grog will not buy it. And the fear of our not having water enough to last us to Canton used to trouble me very much; and indeed the five pints we then got were insufficient to satisfy our thirst. It almost discouraged me — the thought of not having more than five pints through the China seas. I then thought if there was a stream of fresh wafer near, I would jump into it and drink my fill. But to show the futility of all my want of trust in the Divine Power, which knoweth all our wants, the day we made the island of Sandlewood we had a very heavy rain, that enabled us to catch several casks of water, which we took for drinking through the day, besides our allowance; and from that time, until we arrived here, we had plenty of rain-water. And I believe if we would only obey the command of our blessed Saviour, when He tells His disciples to take no anxious thought for the morrow, we should live much happier.

“We had a pretty pleasant passage through the straits of Ombay, and the rest of our way to the Pelew Islands in the Northern Pacific Ocean. In the latitude of about 7 ° north we made the island of Angour, one of the Pelew group, on the 8th of December. Several of the inhabitants came oft’; they were entirely naked, and were marked all over with India ink. They offered cocoa nuts and shells to sell for old knives, etc. On the 9th the wind being fair, we soon lost sight of the Pelews. On the 16th of December we made the island of Formosa on the coast of China. We were then looking with longing wishes for the day when we should get a pilot, thinking it almost impossible we should ever arrive at that far-famed place of China. However, on the 20lh of December, we took the long-looked for pilot on board; which was one hundred and forty-two days from the time we weighed anchor until we came to anchor in Macao Roads that night. * * * I have been favored with good health all the passage, except a few hours I was a little sick, owing, I believe, t.o eating too freely of a shark which we caught. 1 have been very well ever since, excejit on the 20th of December, when I had been up to Canton, and I believe from drinking too much of the river wafer and eating too many oranges, I was taken sick in the night, which, however, thank Providence, did not last long. I hope, my dear mother, thee will not be the least alarmed for my safety, for the same Lord that protected me at sea can guard me from all danger here. But if it should be His will to take me from this world now, be assured, njy dear mother, that I trust in His great mercy for the pardon of my many faults- So I hope thee will not be uneasy about me, believing whatever happens to me is in the will of our Creator, and is all for the best.

“It is rumored that we shall not leave here before the middle of April, so I think thee may look for us next August.

“I forgot to tell in the right place about the captain breaking with our mate. It was on the 28th of November. They had a few words and a scuffle, when the captain ordered him below, and suspended him from duty, and made George McCaul acting mate in his room. Give a great deal of love to father and sisters, and don’t forget brother Israel, and be assured that you all are as dear to me as ever.

“I remain thy afTectionate son,

“MiCKLE.”

His fourth voyage was on board the ship Benjamin Hush, bound to Calcutta and Madras. They sailed 12th mo., 27, 1820, and returned 4tli mo., 1822. When five days out, on 1st mo., 1st, 1821, the vessel was dismasted in a violent storm. He thus describes it:

‘’ Most of the crew were furling the foretopsajl, I among them, when we heard the roar of the approaching terrible squall, and

EAELY LIFE. Ill

hurried to the deck. Behig exceedingly active, I went down a single rope. The wind struck the ship, and threw her nearly upon her side on beam ends. I thought our end was at hand, and expected to be in a few minutes struggling in the great deep. I clambered up to get on the ship’s bottom, as she appeared to be going over; but just then the topmasts went by the board, whereupon the ship righted. One of the sailors, who was on the same topsail-yard where I had been just before, went overboard with the mast, and was lost. We could do nothing to save hiru. If the wind had struck us five minutes sooner, all hands on the foremast would most likely have been lost. Praises and thanks are due unto a watchful Providence. I remember, that, in expecting death at that time. He was not to me a King of terrors, thanks be unto God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. This accident taught me much seamanship. We cut away the ropes which held us to our wrecked masts and sails, in order to prevent them breaking holes in our sides by the action of the waves. It required much labor and ingenuity to continue our passage without our lost rigging. But we succeeded, arriving at Calcutta in 130 days. Many trials were of course my portion, and many misses in my heavenward journey; but through all, my merciful Heavenly Father kept my soul alive and sensible of the visitations of His love.”

While the vessel was lying at Calcutta, a great change took place in his position on board ship, which was the direct result, doubtless, of the Lord’s blessing upon his earnest efforts to pleage his superior officers, and his readiness to help in everything that was to be done, whether it belonged to his own especial line of duties or not; and also to his steady perseverance in acquiring all the knowledge of navigation and seamanship possible in his circumstances. He never had any patience with people who shirked work that needed to be done, even though it might not have been in the terms of their bargain, or miu;ht seem to be beneath their dignity. And in after life, when he had attained a position of real dignity and honor, he would often reprove such ways in those he employed, by taking hold of the job and doing it himself. And I remember well, as a child, how often he would call out to us, in that irresistible, hearty way of his, to “come and lay to a hand,” as he expressed it in his sailor fashion, at anything in which he thought we could help. He realized most essentially that grand principle of true Christianity and true ethics as well, — that he that would be great must be as one that serveth, and he that would be chief must be servant of all. We cannot wonder that the captain being in need of a new mate, should pass by the older and perhaps more experienced men, and fix his choice on the boy (for he was not yet twenty-one) who was always on hand, always ready for everything, and afraid of no sort of work. He thus relates the circumstance of his promotion:

“The captain and chief mate had differed mncli during this voyage, as is often the case. After our arrival at Calcutta, the mate either became sick or feigned it, and was unable to attend to his duties. The second mate was made chief, and the captain promoted me to be second mate. This imposed new duties and resiJonsibilities, and my prayer was to Him who heareth prayer, for help. Thanks and praises are His due, that He not only helped me in uiy arduous post, but also gave me favor in the sight of captain and sailors, so that I never had any difliculty with either. Being made an officer from among sailoi’s every way my equals, made it a trial to them; but 1 was careful never to let them see by my actions that I assumed anything, and always addressed them in respectful language. My position among them before was favorable. As I never joined in their vain talk and rough word.’?, they really respected me,

E^RLY LIFE. 113

and it made my way easy. Oar Lord said: ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of Heaven and the righteousness thereof, and all things needful shall be added.’ Oh, that we all could remember and always do this needful thing.

‘’ At Calcutta the chief mate was sent on shore, and my quarters were changed to the cabin, ‘.vhich of course was satisfactory, as I had much more time for retirement and communion with my Heavenly Father; and, blessed be His Name, He will be found of those who in good earnest seek Him.”

Having thus a place provided, as lie says, for retirement and communion with the Lord, he began at this time a private diary for the purpose of keeping a strict watch over his outward and inward life. Unlike most diaries, which are generally the record of the man’s best and most exalted feelings, he seems to have kept a record of nothing but his shortcomings. And while some of his regrets may seem to us to have been greater than was necessary under the circumstances, yet we cannot but be struck by the revelation of a depth and earnestness in his inward experience rare at this usually thoughtless period of life. A few extracts from this diary will be inserted, and we must remember in reading them that they were written by a young man just coming of age:

“Horning, Calcutta, 28th October, 1821.

“For some time past feeling an inclination to set down in writing some things as they transpire, and what efiect they have on my mind, I have concluded to commence to day by noticing all that I do, without endeavoring to screen any of my faults. A task that unless Thou art pleased to guide me in. Oh Lord, I shall do very imperfectly. And oh, may it please Thee to help me to tread in the paths of pure righteousness, without wilfully offending Thee, for behold, Thou knowest me, that I am a poor, weak, and needy creature.”

‘’ Evening.

“The first day of the week. To-day I have been on board all day, the chief mate being on shore. A person to read the beginning I have made above, would suppose I had spent the day to much advantage, but alas! my foolish heart has been wandering all over t le world; I may say, instead of being employed where true hap” piness is only to be found. I have employed part of the day in reading the Bible and other religious books; and part in sleeping, which I know I could have spent to much more advantage. In the morning the chief mate told me I did not care about anything, so as I got the decks washed down, (it being customary for the second mate to do that); to which I made no reply, although it hurt my feelings very much, and I can truly say I do my duty to the best of my ability. Oh, that the Lord may please to help me to bear patiently whatever comes across me, and may increase my faith, that I may behold all things as coming from His hand. For I verily believe there are many troubles awaiting me, the thoughts of which almost discourage me, nevertheless I hope for strength from the Lord, who is near to them who do the best they can. I do not know that I have indulged in much foolish conversation to-day, not having any company.”

“Second day, the 29th Oct., 182L

“I cannot help lamenting my remissness this day for the most part in endeavoring to keep my thoughts fixed on Ilini, without whom all my endeavors to please my masters, or to refrain from anything that is foolish or vain, will be unavailing.

“I believe I have indulged in too much conversation, and in too free communication of my thoughts to others, also in giving way to anger a little. And indeed I have indulged in many foolish thoughts, which might have been avoided.

“I feel rather low-spirited at present, fearing the captain may not feel satisfied with my conduct, although I do not know that I have done wrong. And indeed if it was not for the sake of my family, I think I would act no more as an officer on board of this ship.”

“30th October, 1S2L “Oh, alas! that I have such a discouraging day’s work to insert! I have been bo foolish as to get in a passion without occasion, and in the midst of it I threatened to strike a person, who I believe meant no harm in what he said. Oh, that the Lord in His great mercy and power would help me to do much better, for He has told us that without Him we can do nothing. I have also indulged in many foolish words and actions, that are truly unbecoming in one to whom our Heavenly Father has been so merciful. Ah, Lord Jesus, if thou art not pleased to help me, I shall be utterly cast ofi’. How can I present my prayer unto Thee after falling off so? Do not deal with me as I deserve, for there is no good in me. I {im but dust, the work of Thy hands.

■1st November.

How can I begin to set down my own foolishness without feeling deep sorrow of heart for my sins? This morning the captain found fault with my painting, and instead of bearing it patiently, I got vexed; although I said nothing to him out of the way, yet still I fretted, and .was discontented with my lot. And how very unreasonable, for if I had ray deservings, I should fare much worse. I have still the same fault to find with myself, which is remissness in prayer to Him who is able to help me in any situation through life. He ruleth in the hearts of men, and, oh! may this consideration still my heart in all trials and contradictions whatsoever, for without His permission, man can do nothing.

“4th November, 1821. ‘’I am this day twenty-one years of age. How time slips by! It seems but yesterday, in a manner, that I was a boy at home; enjoying the company of my dear friends. Ah, how little did I value it, and how discontented I was, wanting to leave those who were so kind to me, and thinking I was hardly used when checked for my faults! How little did I see then the use of correction! But I can truly say now that I am glad my dear father was so resolute in restraining my inclination for bad company. I have felt the good effects of my bringing up, for when I came to leave home and go to Philadelphia, I was restrained by it. Yet I could not say I had never kept any bad company, for when I was in foreign ports during my first two voyages, I was given too much to drinking and frequenting the company of people who encouraged me in the ways of sin. And I believe if it had not pleased the Lord in His great mercy lo stop me in my career, by opening my eyes to behold my danger, and giving me strength to refrain from such things, I should have come to much loss. And indeed now if He does not still uphold me in the way that I should go, I shall never reach that place where all of our troubles will end. Oh, Lord Jesus, do not utterly forsake me, for without thy help I cannot even think one good thought.”

“Sixth. “The time passes on, and I get no better. I am the same foolish, heedless creature that I was a year ago, still the same passionate, unworthy person. Oh, my God, when will it please thee to humble me truly before thee? When will it please thee to bring every thought into subjection? Be pleased to help me, I beseech thee, for I am passing my time away, I fear, without improving the talent that thou hast given me. Be pleased to help me to watch and pray according to thy commands, for all my help cometh from thee.”

“Ninth.

“The weeks and days pass over me, and still I am no more resigned to the will of my Creator than a year ago. Oh! what a sad thing it is to have a bad heart that will not be willing to take up the cross daily and follow Christ, the true Shepherd, out of whose hand no man can pluck His sheep!

“Oh, my God, be pleased to give me a heart to love all that comes from thee, so that at any time when the creatures as.sail me, I niay retire in faith under the cover of thy wings, and be safe; for without thou permittest them to rage, it could not be so. If then thou permittest it, why should I be troubled at it? But, alas! I am very frail, for when the trial comes, I would fain be excused. I cannot bear with resignation any cross without thou art pleased to quicken my heart in thy ways, oh, my Lord!

“I behaved very unbecomingly to-day in getting into a passion with the chief mate, who I believe was in the wrong. But still that was no excuse for one who knows it is wrong to fly in a passion at anything whatsoever. Truly there is nothing in me to depend upon, for I am all sin, all corruption, and contrariness to a true follower of Him, who under the most severe pains and scourges from sinful man, prayed for those who murdered Him. Oh, that I may look to thee, Lord Jesus, for help to follow all of thy leadings with a humble and sincere heart. Oh, Lord my God, be not angry with the work of thy hands, but be pleased to give ear unto my supplications and help me through all difficulties and troubles that await me, for truly without thou helpest me, I can do no good thing.”

‘’ Twenty-second.

“Since I wrote last I have been continuing the same foolish actions as before, and in the same careless way of passing away my time, in neglect of the commands of our Saviour who has told us to watch and pray; and I firmly believe that if I could bring my heart to a humble dependence and a watchful frame, I should not have so much reason to complain of this continual forgetfulness of God, who is so very merciful and kind to me. For I feel His presence at times, and with it a hope that He has not utterly forsaken the work of His hands. But truly I am in fear that I shall by my sins cause my only strength to leave me to myself. Truly I do not depend on my own strength to resist evil, for I have none.

“I indulge in too much talk. I have a propensity to it by nature, for I am of a very volatile disposition, easily excited to mirth, and as soon depressed by crosses. It is really necessary, if I wish to attain to true happiness in this life (which I certainly do), that every thought should be brought into subjection, and that I should receive all that comes to pass without complaining, or being unresigned to the will of my Creator. Oh, that I may attain to that state through the mercy of the Lord, is the desire of my soul.

’ “December 5th, 1821. “I can see no alteration in myself for the better; but still I hope the Lord will not utterly forsake rae, nor cast me off entirely. I feel His presence near to me sometimes when I seek Him with all my heart. Oh, how unworthy I am of all His mercies unto me! Truly if the Lord had not upheld me this far, where should I now have been? Where would my corruptions have carried me to?

Deep into the mazes of iniquity, and far from all that is good or lovely.”

The last entry in his journal for this year was made
on the 16th; when he writes:

“Got under weigh with a fair wind, but light, and at four in the afternoon the pilot left us. It has been just seven months and ten days since we took him on board to take us in to Calcutta.”