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MEMOIRS

LIFE OF DAVID MAEKS,

MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL;

EDITED BY

MRS. MARILLA MARKS.

Say not I am a child, for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee, thou shalt speak." Jer. 1:7.

DOVER, N.H.:

PUBLISHED BY THE FREE-WILL BAPTIST PRINTINa ESTAB- LISHMENT.

WILLIAM BURR, PRINTER.

1846.

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by Marilla Marks, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of New Hamp- shire.

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PEEFACE.

Immediately after the decease of Mr. Marks, many highly es- teemed friends, whose opinions have deservedly great weight in the church, repeatedly expressed the conviction that the cause of Christ demanded the publication of his biography. In deference to their judgment, and in accordance with their earnest request, this work is now submitted to the Christian public.

In the year 1831, the subject of these Memoirs was persuaded by several friends, who had examined his Journal, to publish a * Narrative' of his labors in the ministry, especially as those labors were intimately connected with the progress of the Free-will Bap- tist denomination in the west. An edition of two thousand copies was issued, which was nearly all sold in New England within nine months after its publication. He was afterwards often solicited by friends at the west to publish another edition for the supply of the western Free-will Baptist churches, but he felt so much delica- cy on the subject, that he could never be induced to listen to their importunities.

For nearly two years and a half after the publication of his "Narrative," he kept a regular Journal, as in former years. Af- ter this period, on account of the close occupancy of his time with immense labors, he only made occasional entries. His " Narrative," as written by himself, occupies the first twenty-three chapters of the present work in an abridged form. The remainder consists of the occasional entries in his Journal; extracts from his correspon- dence, and from such other documents as could be collected ; and a brief history of his labors during the intervening spaces has been written by the editress from memory. From the nature of the materials, the latter part of the biography does not give so much detail in a connected form, as would be found in a regular Journal ; but the exemplification of his character in its several parts, as well as the mere outline of his labors, being one of the objects designed in this work, it is hoped that the latter part will not be found less inter-

jvi^?aso7

iv. PREFACE*

esting or useful than the former. As the subject of these Memoirs was deeply interested in all the various branches of Christian re- form, it has been deemed proper to give, occasionally, brief ex- tracts from articles showing his position on these points.

It has been with a painful sense of her own inadequacy, that the editress of these Memoirs has prosecuted her labor. Gladly would she have shrunk from the responsible work, had the necessary documents been in such a situation that another could have arrang- ed them. She has also been painfully alive to the delicacy of her situation, contemplated as the biographer of her companion in life* She has, however, aimed to present a portrait of her husband's charac- ter just as it was, in private as well as public life, that his influence on all points might be perpetuated, and the precious cause for which he lived, and toiled, might be thus promoted. In doing this, some things needed to be said, which, at first view, it seemed improper for her to- say. She has felt, too, that she might be censured by some for want of discretion in publishing private expressions of sentiment and feel- ing. Indeed, doubts on these points have not been absent from her own mind. In self-vindication, however, she will state, that she yielded her feelings of delicacy to the judgment and counsel of friends of high standing in the literary and religious world, and has aimed to write with fidelity to the advisory direc- tion of a competent judge, " Present your husband just as he was."

In accomplishing this work, she would gratefully acknowledge the sustaining grace of God. Notwithstanding the anguish under which her soul was writhing from her recent severe bereavement, and which, from the nature of her work, has been kept before her in all its freshness, she has had consolations that have often render- ed her labor inexpressibly sweet. To the church of the living God, this work is now dedicated, with many prayers, that, through the Divine blessing, it may nerve the hearts of God's people to high and holy resolves, to live and die for the salvation of this lost world. The Editress.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I.

Mr. Marks' parentage — Early religious impressions — Burning of his father's house — Removal to Connecticut — Death of his oldest brother — Removal to Junius, N. Y. ------ 13

CHAPTER II.

Conversion — Application for membership to a Calvinistic Baptist church — Journey to Providence, R. L, and unsuccessful attempt to pursue a course of study — Baptism and union with the Free-will Baptists. 18

CHAPTER HI.

Exercises of mind with regard to preaching on the anniversary of his birth day, Nov. 4, 1820, then fifteen years of age — Attends a few meetings in different towns with a minister — Returns home — Exercises of mind respecting duty — His parents give him his time — La- bors in a revival in Brutus and Camillus — Returns to Junius. - 27

CHAPTER IV.

Leaves home to travel and preach — Labors in several towns on the Holland Purchase — Severe trials — Second burning of his father's house — Labors and success — Bethany quarterly meeting — Death of his mother. -32.

CHAPTER V.

Returns home — Interview with his family — Attends the organization of the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in Bethany — Labors and opposi- tion in Junius — Study of Giammar — Labors in several towns — Second tour to the Holland Purchase. ------ 48

CHAPTER VI.

Leaves for N. H. — Preaches in several places — Revivals in Brookfield and Eaton — Continues his journey — Destitution and consequent diffi- culties— Labors in N. H. — Oifer of a support at college and reasons for declining — Union of several churches in the south part of Vernfont with the Free-will Baptists — Returns to N. Y. - - - 54 I*

VI, CONTENTS.

CHAPTER. VII.

Labors in several towns — Revival in Candor — Interview with the follow- ers of Jemima Wilkinson — Labors — Attends Benton and Erie quarterly meetings — Trials and reflections. 69

CHAPTER VHL

Passage on lake Erie to Ohio — Sufferings on a desolate peninsula — Labors in Huron Co. — Funeral of a backslider — Organization of the Huron quarterly meeting — Travels to the South part of Ohio — Diffi- culties in crossing the Ohio river — Meeting in Kentucky — Visits Rutland — Rise of a Free-will Baptist yearly meeting on the Ohio river and the trials that follow — Returns to N. Y. - - - 75

CHAPTER IX.

Journey to Connecticut — Visits his brother's grave — Rise of a Free-will Baptist church in Middletown — Returns to New York — Tour to Upper Canada — Reflections at Niagara Falls. 87

CHAPTER X.

Prospect of a revival in Batavia — Second tour to Canada — Labors in revivals in Batavia and Elba — Le Roy — Groveland and Geneseo — Church gathered. 94

CHAPTER XL

Publishes an address to the unconverted — Imbibes Unitarian views — Interviews with Lorenzo Dow — ^Revival in Manchester — Labors till eighteen years of age. 109

CHAPTER XII.

Second journey to New Hampshire — Revival at Bradford: — Tour to Rhode Island and Connecticut — Execution of a criminal in Tolland — New Hampshire yearly meeting at Weare — Revival at Sandwich — Labors in the Western part of Maine — Meeting and thunder shower at Effingham, N. H. — Funeral at Bradford — Returns to New York, and travels with Abel Thornton — Labors till Oct. 1824. - 118^

CHAPTER Xm.

Second journey to Ohio — Labors till Jan. 1825 — Teaches a school at York — Another at Salt-rock — Labors while teaching — Revival at Salt-rock and some other towns — Hurricane — Interesting baptismal scene — Severe illness and flery trials — Organization of Marion quar- terly meeting, and Ohio yearly meeting — Departure for New York — Shocking death and funeral — Return home — Spiritual trials. 131

CHAPTER XIV.

Teaches at Junius — Preaches under great depression of spirits — Great enlargement of mind at Benton quarterly meeting, Jan. 1826 — Is ordained — Labors — Severe trials and temptation from Unitarian views — Some of the arguments which changed his views. - - 146

CONTENTS. VU.

CHAPTER XV.

Revival in Ontario — Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Rise of the first Free-vv^ill Baptist church in Upper Canada — Interesting conversion and baptism of a sick person — Labors in different places — Revival at Canandaigua — Excitement occasioned by the Free-masons' kidnapping Capt. Wm. Morgan — Labors in Canandaigua and organization of a church — Travels to the eastern part of the State — Free-communion Baptists — Baptism of six persons at sun-rise on a winter morning — Tour to Pennsylvania, and labors till Aug. 1827 — Yearly meeting at Bethany and discussion of Free-masonry — Northern lights. - 156

CHAPTER XVL

First tour to London District, Upper Canada — Revival at London — Commencement of a revival at Southwold. - - - 169

CHAPTER XVH.

Revival in Scriba, N. Y. — Church gathered — Happy state of mind in expectation of immediate death — Exercises concerning Christian per- fection— Labors in Holland Purchase and Susquehanna yearly meet- ings— Elder J. Fowler's renunciation of Free-masonry. - 175

CHAPTER XVm.

Second tour to London District, Upper Canada — Meetings in the streets in St. Catharines, Hamilton, Ancaster — State of the Free-will Baptist churches in the province — Faithfulness of a Christian wife blessed to the conversion of her dying husband — Labors in Bethany and Benton quarterly meetings — Some disclosures of Free-masonry and facts connected with them — Holland Purchase yearly meeting resolves respecting them. - - - - - - - - 183

CHAPTER XIX.

Mr. Marks' appointment as delegate to the second session of the Free- will Baptist General Conference — Travels with Wm. Van Tuyl — Attends Spafford quarterly meeting — Second session of Susquehanna yearly meeting — Its rise,.&c. — Street meeting in Johnstown, N. Y. — Attends Vermont yearly meeting in Oct. 1828 — Masonic discussion, &c. — General Conference — Labors in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont — Returns to New York. - - - - - 195

CHAPTER XX.

Revival in Canandaigua — Death of Wm. Van Tuyl — Labors in Benton and Ontario quarterly meetings. 207

CHAPTER XXI.

Third journey to London District, Upper Canada — Free-communion Baptists' Annual Conference — Happy death — Result of a conference appointed to labor for a union between the Free-will and Free-com- munion Baptists in Upper Canada — Returns to New York — Revival in Conesus and Sparta — Holland Purchase Yearly meeting in 1829 — Fourth journey to London District — Revival at Oxford— His Marriage — Third General Conference and revival that followed — Baptism of his companion and sketches of her religious experience. - - 214

Viii. CONTENTS.

CHAPTER XXII.

Labors from Nov. 1829 to close of the year — Revival in Middlesex — Second session of the Allegany quarterly meeting and particulars of its rise— Bethany quarterly meeting and revival at Penfield — Fourth General Conference — Fifth tour to Upper Canada — Meeting in the asylum for the poor of Ontario county — Interesting particulars of the revival in Penfield — Meetings in Scriba and other towns — " Book of Mormon " — Labors in various places — Horrid murder in Dansville — Attends Allegany, Benton, and Bethany quarterly meetings — Sixth tour to Canada — State of Free-will Baptist churches in the province — Labors in New York — Attends Ontario and Bethany quarterly meet- ings— Holland Purchase yearly meeting, Aug. 1830 — Resolution against Masonry. 233

CHAPTER XXm.

Organization of the Norwich quarterly meeting — A^isits in Vermont and Connecticut — General Conference in Rhode Island — Labors in that State — Revival at Greenville — Journey to Maine and return to Rhode Island — Masonic opposition — Labors in different towns — Visits the grave-yard and Jews' Synagogue at Newport — Attends Roman Cath- olic meeting at Boston — Labors in Maine from Jan. to May, 1831 — Journey to Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont — Attends New Durham, Sandwich and Wheelock quarterly meetings — Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting at Lisbon — Remarkable revival that follows — Labors in New Hampshire — Labors in Limerick, Me., and vicinity — Baptism of Samuel Beede, &c. ... - 245

CHAPTER XXIV.

State of the Free-will Baptist denomination in 1831 — Plan to aid in removing existing evils — Attends Maine Western yearly meeting — Attends fifth General Conference — Book Concern organized — Mr. Marks appointed its Agent — First labors as Agent — Attends Wolf- boro' quarterly meeting — Masonic opposition — Letter from S. Beede — Meetings in different towns — Tour to Rhode Island — Mr. C. G. Fin- ney— Meetings in Kittery and Great Falls — Masonic opposition— Labors in various towns — Sickness in Holderness, N. H. — Rumor of his death — Travels and labors — Severe sickness in Bath, N. H., Jan. 1832 — Partially recovers and resumes his labors — Confinement with a relapse in Randolph, Vt. — Happy state of mind in expectation of death — Partial recovery — Letter from S. Beede — Reply — Preaches in New Hampshire as health permits — Extracts from correspondence — Difficulties attending his labors for the Book Concern — Dyspepsia — Missionary letter from Mr. Sutton, in India — Free-will Baptist For-, eign Mission Society formed — Labors — Records of the first Free-will Baptist church — Letter to S. Beede — Attends New Durham quarterly meeting — Embarrassments and anxieties — Attends Weare quarterly meeting and New Hampshire yearly meeting — Rise of Parsonsfield Seminary — Cholera in America — Attends Penobscot yearly meetmg — Cholera at Montreal — Attends Edgcomb quarterly meeting — Day of fasting on account of the pestilence — Issues first edition of Christian Melody — Attends New Durham quarterly meeting and preaches at

CONTENTS. IX.

Randall's grave — Letters to Benton quarterly meeting and Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Tour to Vermont and Maine — Attends a ministers' conference in Holderness, N. H. — Letter from S. Beede — Attends Vermont yearly meeting — Sixth General Conference in 1832 — Purchases the Morning Star Establishment. _ . - 268

CHAPTER XXV.

Tour to New York and Upper Canada — Labors in New York — Letter on Slavery — Discussion of Campbellism — Returns to New England — Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting — Arrival of Mr. Sutton and affecting address — Revival in New Durham — In New Market — Cor- respondence— Extraordinary Painting — Attends Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Returns to New England — Attends seventh General Conference — Letter to Mr. Pike of England — Removal of the printing office of the Morning Star to Dover, N. H. — Tour to Maine and severe illness at Wilton — Returns to Dover, N. H. — Sickness and death of Mr. Beede — Locates in Portsmouth and takes charge of a small church — Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting — Extracts from an article on missions — Rise of the Free-will Baptist Home Mission Society — Mr. Marks appointed Corresponding Secretary — A^isits Whitfield's tomb — Organization of the Rockingham quarterly meet- ing— Labors in Portsmouth and other towns — Attends a ministers' conference in Readfield, Me. — Sufferings from dyspepsia — Labors in Portsmouth and towns in its vicinity— Attends a protracted meeting in Boston — Anti-Slavery character of the Morning Star — Mr. C. G. Fin- ney's Revival Lectures — Revival in Portsmouth — George Thompson, the Abolitionist — Confession of a man of pleasure — Attends New Hampshire x\nti-Slavery Society — Home Mission Anniversary in Lisbon, N. H. — Mr. Marks' report and illustration of the principle of missionary operations— New Hampshire yearly meeting — Slavery discussion — Ordination of Mr. Eli Noyes as missionary to India — Visits Mt. Washington — Returns to Portsmouth — Trials in conse- quence of temperance principles — Meetings and baptism on the Isle of Shoals — Mr. Phillips appointed missionary to India — His marriage to Mrs. Beede — Mr. Marks' ill health — Visits Boston — Departure of the Missionaries — Attends the eighth General Conference — Resigns his Agency for the Book Concern — New Hampshire Legislature refuses it an act of Incorporation on account of its Anti-Slavery character — Returns to Dover to make a transfer of the Book Concern to a Board of Trustees— Visits Upper Canada— Resolutions for holy living. 306

CHAPTER XXVI.

Mr. Marks commences labors in Rochester, N. Y., under the patronage of the Free-will Baptist (N. Y.) Home Mission Society, in Jan. 1836 — Letter to Mr. Burr on Slavery — Labors and success — Organizes a church — Purchases a lot for a meeting house — Abner Kneeland — Failure of the crops and consequent inability of the infant Mission Society — Mr. Marks' consequent trials — Attempts to sustain himself rather than desert his field of labor — Unprecedented pressure in the commercial world— Extracts from his correspondence— Murder of Mr. Lyman of Rochester — Trial and execution of the murderer — III

X. CONTENTS.

health — Leaves Rochester, June 1838 — Attends Holland Purchase yearly meeting — New York Anti-Slavery Convention — Letter to India. ----- 359

CHAPTER XXVH.

Eig-hth tour to Upper Canada — Labors as an evangelist in the Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Dreadful death of an infidel — Revival in Warsaw — Pike — Boston, N. Y. — Attendance at quarterly meetings — Illness of his wife — Revival in Rochester under the labors of Mr. Knapp — Attends Genesee quarterly meeting — Holland Purchase year- ly meeting — New York State Temperance Society — Attends the tenth General Conference, 1839 — Interesting discusssion of the Slavery question — Report of the Book Concern — Resolution of Conference on the use of tobacco — Labors through the winter in Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. 380

CHAPTER XXVm.

Attends the anniversaries in N. Y. in 1840 — Visits places of interest — Letter to the World's Anti-Slavery Convention — ^Preaches in the city and urged to labor there — Illness — Leaves for western New York — Refuses to travel on the Sabbnth — Kind reception from the Baptist minister in Syracuse — Preaches once at his request — Evils resulting from the disregard of the Sabbath on the Erie canal — Dreadful death of two canal boys — Labors in western New York till the 18th of June— Attends Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Confined to his bed by a severe attack of bronchitis — Partial recovery , but relinquishes preaching two months — In the mean time visits Canada and writes a treatise on " The Design of the Lord's Supper" — London quarterly meeting — Character of fugitives from American Slavery — Intemper- ance in Canada — Returns to New York — Resumes his labors in Sep- tember— On account of his health locates in Varysburg — Organizes a church in Portageville with which he labors half of the time — Revival in Varysburgh — Alarming sickness — Attends Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Christian Anti-Slavery "Convention in Aubuin — Wyoming county Temperance Convention — Lectures on Political Abolition in Warsaw — Leaves for the General Conference in Maine — Assailed by a robber — Attends Free-communion Baptist Confer- ence in Central New York — Street Temperance meetings — Tem- perance in Portsmouth — Eleventh General Conference — Lectures on Temperance in the street in Brunswick — arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Noyes from India — Returns to New York — Adopted daughter— La- bors in Varysburg and Java till May 1842 — calls to different fields of labor — Decides to accept an Agency in Ohio, in the cause of Chris- tian Education — Tenth and last journey to Upper Canada— Travels and labors for six weeks in western New York. - - 397

CHAPTER XXIX.

Lectures on the duty of voters — Meets Western Reserve Education Society in Chester, Ohio, July, 1842 — Society purchases a farm for their Seminary — School opened — Removes his family to Oberlin — Labors for the Education Society till last of Jan. 1843— Studies at

CONTENTS. XI.

Oberlin and labors— Call from the Trustees of a Literary Institution in Strafford, N. H. — Correspondence — Accepts the call — Labors in New Hampshire for three months — Returns to New York — 111 health — Labors for Western Reserve Education Society — Health fails — Extracts from his correspondence — Health improves — Resumes preach- ing— Attends Lake Erie quarterly meeting and Ohio Northern yearly meeting — Discussion on baptism — Testimony respecting it — Letter from E. Place — Attends the twelfth General Conference in central New York, October 1844 — Extract from his speech on the political duty of a Christian citizen — Report on secret societies — Book concern — Close of Conference — Returns to Ohio — Tempest and dreadful loss of life at Buffalo—Wreck of the Robert Fulton— Arrival at Oberlin. 417

CHAPTER XXX.

Health declines — Kindness of Professor Finney — Health improves — Attends Ohio Northern yearly meeting, June, 1845 — Michigan yearly meeting — Letter from D. H. Graham — Relapse — Health again im- proves— 'Letter from India — From E. Place — Attends Lorain quarterly meeting in September — Relapse — Happy state of mind — Brief diary of some of his last remarks — Dictates a Farewell Address to his brethren — Carried at his request to the chapel to address the Students after he was thought to be dying — Death — Post mortem examination — Funeral Sermon — His Farewell Address to Free-will Baptists and the world — His Address to the Oberlin Students — Extracts from letters of condolence — Resolutions of Associations of churches — Poetic Tributes to his memory. --------- 442

Concluding Remarks, 512

MEMOIRS.

CHAPTER I.

My parentage, and other particulars till my father's removal to

New York, 8^c.

My ancestors were of Jewish origin. My father, David Marks, 2d. was the eldest son of David Marks, 1st. of Burlington, Hart^ ford county, Ct. who was a grandson of Mordecai Marks, a Jew. My mother, Rosanna Merriman, eldest daughter of Chauncey Mer- riman, of Southing-ton, in the same county, w^as married to my fa- ther at the commencement of the year 1800. They were both members of the Calvinistic Baptist church. After residing in Bur- lington for five years following theii* marriage, they removed to the town of Shendaken, Ul^er county, N. Y. In the latter town, I was born Nov. 4, 1805. I was the fourth child. One, a daugh- ter, died before my birth at the age of ten months. At this time my mother remarked, with much confidence, that my life would be short. " For," said she, " I believe God, by his Holy Spirit, has impressed it on my mind, that the child shall live before him, as did Samuel anciently ; and that in early life the Lord will set him for the defence of the gospel, and call him to do a great, but a short work in the earth." When one year had passed, the dropsy in the head, considered by physicians incurable, came near termi- nating my mortal existence. My mother's faith was then shaken in what she had asserted on the day of my birth ; but God bless- ed the use of means, and from the gate of death restored me to health.

One of the first occurrences printed in my recollection, is family prayer. As early as I was susceptible of instruction and capable of reflection, the ti-uth, that all must die and appear before God, 2

14 MEMOIRS OP

to account for their actions, was solemnly impressed on my mind. At the age of four years, a sense of death and judgment caused awful feelings to pervade my soul ; particularly one day, when I was alone amusing myself with burning the tow of flax ; the dread- ful agony of the wicked in hell, represented in the word of God by burning with unquenchable fire was instantly brought to mind. Looking into the flame, I thought how exceedingly dreadful even one moment would be in this fierce burning ; then turning my eyes toward the heavens I said within myself, how will my soul endure, if yet in sin, at the great judgment day, when God shall appear, and set the world on fire ? Finally, I concluded that I would descend into a well when that period should arrive, and go- ing immediately to my mother, told her my resolution. " Ah, my son," said she, " the water will boil, and the earth will burn." Another expedient was suggested. I thought I would hew out a place of retreat in a rock, and there hide myself, closing the en- trance. On naming this, she rephed, " but the rocks will melt." My sorrows increased ; but on reflection I hoped ere that time should come, life might be ended, and my body buried in the earth ; so, telling my mother, I hoped by this to escape, she said, " My child, your hope is vain ; for the dead will awake and come out of their graves." My last expedient it now appear- ed would fail ; and, retiring to a field, my anguish became great, while reflecting that my parents were Christians but I was a sin- ner ; tears flowed profusely, and putting my hand on my bosom, I cast my eyes toward heaven, and said, " God be merciful to me a sinner." Now existence was a burden ; the burning of the tow i*ecurred to mind, and I earnestly wished that I was something in- animate, even if it were tow, that I flight not feel the vengeance that would fall upon the wicked. Once as my mother laid me down to rest, she said, " soon my son you will exchange the bed for the grave, and your clothes for a winding sheet." Often, after this, when I lay down at night, my bed reminded me of the grave, and the sheets of the grave apparel. About this time, Jeremiah, my eldest brother, then eight yeai-s of age, was converted to God, and publicly professed faith in the Redeemer. Serious thoughts of death and judgment continued to exercise my infant powers.

Very solemn feelings were excited in my mind at the age of four years and seven months, by seeing our house wrapped in flames. When the fire was discovered, my parents were at the house of worship, two miles distant, having left me at home with my two elder brothers, Jeremiah and Friend. One of my brothers imme- diately ran to tlie meeting, the other to the neighbor's house for assistance. Being much alarmed, I fled, unperceived, with all possible haste to ^e adjacent wood, thinking of nothmg but to es-

DAVID MARKS, 15

cape the devouring flame. I reached the place of retreat ; but while looking on the trees, the recollection of having seen fire spread rapidly in the forest, filled me with fresh alarm. The leaves were just put forth, and, though green, the expectation that they too would burn, and the fire be communicated to them by the adjacent fences, induced me to resume my flight. In the mean- time, the assembly with my parents had resorted to the flames, and immediately the anxious inquiry was made, " Where is Da- vid ?" He was not to be found. No one had seen him. An aw- ful thought rushed upon their minds — the flames must have con- sumed him ! My mother, recollecting her former impressions con- cerning my future life, in anguish of soul, cried out, " O Lord, thou hast deceived me, and I was deceived ;" and immediately swoon- ing, she fell to the ground. A thought that the child might yet be alive, induced some of the assembly to search for me ; while oth- ers endeavored to extinguish the flames, expecting to discover my bones. In my wandering, a path appeared, and, deeming the op- posite side more safe, as it presented an obstacle to the fire, I quick- ly passed it, and had followed its windings more than a mile, when one of the company discovered the object of their search. " Your father wishes to see you," said he, and taking me np, carried me, till we came within sight of the smoking ruins of my native home. The people were still employed in throwing water ; but, on see- ing us, they desisted, and my father, with feelings more easily im- agined than described, met us, and, clasping me in his arms, said, " My son, my son, are you yet alive ?" kissed me and carried me to my mother. She soon recovered from her swoon. Her faith revived — and rejoicing with great joy, they said, " The dead is alive, the lost is found."

By this, and other misfortunes, my father lost nearly all his prop- erty, and soon after returned to Connecticut, where he resided in the towns of Bristol and Plymouth more than four years. Dur- ing two years of this time, Jeremiah often led brother Friend and myself to the chamber, barn, or field ; and there talked to us of eternity, taught us to pray and seek after the Lord. TYliile en- joying these opportunities, my heart was tenderly affected, and se- rious impressions deepened. But a painful scene quickly fol- lowed.

My father journeyed to the western part of New York. Im- mediately after his departure, Jeremiah was severely wounded in the foot with an axe ; and af^er a confinement of several weeks, an attack of the typhus fever brought wearisome days, lonely nights, and caused his flesh to waste away. Six days before his death, I went to live with my uncle Marks in Burlington, to attend school. Jan. 2, 1813, after my return from school, my uncle told

16 MEMOIRS OF

me that my brother was dead. The day before he sat up several hours, wrote some, and said he thought he should recover ; but in the evening the scene changed. Death had marked him for a victim ; and while the sun of life was sitting, he said to my moth- er, who was alone with him, " I am dying." Immediately she blew a trumpet, to call assistance ; then taking him in her arms, he said, " O that I could see papa once more ; but I never shall in this world." Deacon Ward, a neighbor, came in, having heard the alarm. Being much distressed, Jeremiah said, " My pain of body is very great," and once added he wished that he was dead ; but immediately recalled it, saying, "I am wrong; but if it were the will of God, I should be glad to be out of pain." He made af- fecting remarks concerning his death, and a short time before he expired, said, " O, I fear Friend and David will run a wicked race." After conversing an hour and a half very calmly, he was laid on the bed, and then folding his hands on his bosom, he look- ed steadfastly towards heaven. They had now thought he would never speak again, when he distinctly said, " Lord Jesus, may I be with thee ;" and without a groan or struggle, in one minute and a half, his pulse ceased to beat, and his spirit took flight to that land whence there is no return. Dea. Ward remarked, that he had of- ten been called to attend on death-bed scenes for forty years, but had never witnessed one so much composed as this. Jeremiah was eleven years and six months of age, more than four years old- er than myself. His body was laid in the grave, the top of which was covered till my father should return. His death greatly af- fected me, for I loved him tenderly ; and when his dying words, " I fear they will run a wicked race," recurred, I felt and mourn- ed my loss. No longer could I hear his pious warnings, his af- fectionate counsel, and never again would he instruct me to call on the name of the Lord. About two months after this, my father having returned, his body was taken up, earned into the meeting house, and a sermon delivered. Having heard of instances of bur- ial in cases of fits, and that when taken from the earth such had been revived, my childish heart beat high, when I thought it might be thus with my brother. But as the coffin lid' was raised, all my hope vanished, and my sorrow returned. That face, once bloom- ing in health, was now covered with mould, and those eyes, once innocently beaming with affection, were now sunk in their sock- ets. A deep sense of my own mortality pervaded my soul, and afterward I frequently addressed the throne of gi*ace. But not clearly discerning the things of the kingdom, I often joined in folly with my juvenile companions, by which the Spirit of God was grieved, and my convictions in some measure effaced*

DAVID MARKS. 17

My mother often made observations upon common occurrences, that caused deep and lasting impressions on my mind. Once when she was killing some fowls, their dying struggles excited my sym- pathy, even to weeping, and I asked why she killed them. " Dear child," said she, " fowls have to die for man, calves have to die for man, sheep have to die for man ; but what is more, Jesus, the Sa- vior of the Avorld, has died for man, and soon we must die." At another time, she said ; " have you ever observed the young sap- ling, how easily you can bend it to the ground ?" I answered " Yes." She continued, " Have you also observed that when grown to be a tree, it will not bow, bat will break first ?" Again I answered " Yes ;" and she said, " Learn instruction. Now in the morning of life, your heart, like the sapling, is tender, and may ea,sily be turned to God ; but when inured to crime and hard- ened*by transgression, like the stubborn oak, it will not bow."

When I was nine years old, my father removed to the town of Junius, Seneca county. New York. The greater part of the time for more than a year after our removal, neglect of eternal tliingn marked my conduct ; yet, frequently, after joining my associates in play, such condemnation filled my soul, that I would resolve never more to engage in idle sports. And though the Spirit of God did not entirely forsake me, yet my resolutions were often broken, and these scenes of folly and sin against God were repeated. About this time, my brother Friend was converted to God. Serious im- pressions again returned. But the attachment to my childish plays and companions continued ; and during the winter months, we ap- pointed one evening in every week for diversion. For this, con- Hcience sharply reproved me ; but being unwilling to desist entire- ly, I proposed that a part of the time should be spent in leai-ning the orthography of words. My proposal was acceded to, but still conscience was not satisfied, and I further proposed that we should commence our school with prayer. Some of my associates, observ- ing they thought it would be well, requested me to address the- tin-one of gi-ace ; the request was granted, which so affected me, that f could no longer participate in their vanities ; but for a time re- mained a spectator, and then feeling condemned for this, wholly forsook the meetings. Serious impressions again increased, and the fear that there was no mercy for me, that my case was hope- less, at times caused me keen distress. For weeks and months, I visited the place of secret prayer two or three times a day, till dis- couragement and unbelief prevailed on me, for a time, to desist. As with others who live in the wicked one, excuses for procrasti- nation found way to my heart. The hope, that at some future,, un- known time, a revival, or some other event would render seeking the Lord less difficult, mafle me again indifferent. 2*

IS MEMOIRS OF

CHAPTER 11.

An account of m^ conversion, with some other particulars till my

connection with the Freewill Baptists.

In the Autumn of 1816, when I was nearly eleven years old, an alai'ming occurrence loudly called my attention. While riding- alone tlu'ough a wood but a little distance from home, my life was much endangered by a sudden fall from a horse. Instantly the query rushed upon me, as if a voice from heaven had spoken and said, "Had your life here closed, where would your soul have been now ?" Conscience answered, " It .would have been in lielL" I stood astonished and amazed. The recollection of my past life^ of broken promises, and of the many times I had prayed, as 1 thought, earnestly, without finding relief, rushed upon me like a flood. The anguish of my soul was great, and tears gushed from my eyes. In vain did I regret my existence ; in vain did I en^■y the reptiles of the earth their state. Having been taught that a part of mankind were elected to salvation and the rest passed by, with great bitterness, the exclamation burst from my bosom, " I am a reprobate ; there is no mercy for me." Now did the sor- rows of death compass me about, and the pains of hell got hold of me. Despair bound my soul with its cruel fetters. Nature itself wore a solemn gloom, and even the trees seemed to mourn, and the heavens to frown. Every ray of hope was gone, and the an- guish of my soul was insupportable. " What shall I do ? what shall I do ?" was my cry ; then a thought rushed into my mind, which in some measure relieved me. " Peradventure God can and will have mercy. Christ died for sinners, why not for me ? If hell must be my portion, and I must finally perish, I will per- ish pleading for mercy." But now, the fat« of former promises occurred to my mind ; for in the hour of temptation my feelings had changed, and my strongest resolutions had failed. What secu- rity had I, that this resolution should not, in like manner tail ? f felt jealous of my own heart ; and this seemed an awful moment, on which my eternal destiny was poised. It appeared to me that heaven or hell, depended on the keeping, or not keeping of this resolution. And I felt unwilling to leave myself the least liberty for its violation, lest this dread liberty should be used to my eter- nal ruin. So falling upon my knees, and I'aising my hand towards heaven, I made oath unto God, saying, " As long as thou shah give me life and ability, lihe Daniel, I will kneel and pray to thee thrice in a day, even though my years shoidd he lengthened to three- score and ten, and hell he my doom at la^tJ" I arose ; my tears

DAVID MARKS. 19

ceased ; distress and anxiety were fled ; and though the darkneSvS of night veiled the earth, yet nature assumed a new aspect. All that met my sight, praised God, and my lieart was constrained to join the theme. Setting out for home, a sudden rustling among the trees reminded me that those forests were inhabited by beasts of prey ; but it excited no timidity as usual, neither did it cause me t^ make haste ; and now, for the first time, I was willing to die. Something whispered, " How is this ? you are not a Christian." " True," was my reply, " but the Judge of all the earth will do right." Such a sense of his justice and goodness filled my soul, that with sweet composure, I felt to commit my all to Him, and thus was quiet from fear of evil.

Now to fulfill my oath required no effort, for it seemed tliat my eternal destiny depended upon it.s performance. My constant j)rayer was, that my soul might be born of the Spirit ; but reflec- tions on my past life, the just and holy nature of God, who cannot look on sin with the least allowance, no longer caused my heart to feel condemnation for sin, or to dread his vengeance. I read the threatening^ of God's word — they moved me not. I brought to view tlie pains of hell — my soul rejoiced and was happy. This seemed to me very wrong, and thought I, Christians may rejoice, but not sinners. I was now distressed with fears that a state of insensibility was taking possession of my heart ; for I labored to feel again my former load of guilt, and constantly prayed that con- viction might return, but in vain. Heaven seemed deaf to my entreaties ; and while thus praying, my lieart seemed so hard, that dreadful fears seized me, lest conviction had ceased forever ; yet so sacred appeared my oath, that not the least temptation to violate it troubled my thoughts. Once when bowed before the Lord in se- cret, all recollections except of the solemn vow, fled from my mem- ory ; and not an idea or a word occurring to mind, the fearful ex- pectation was excited, that I should be compelled to rise without offering a single petition to Heaven. But finally the words of the publican, " G^d l)e merciful to me a sinner," came to my recollec- tion, and were as soon repeated. Then I arose and returned, weeping, because of the hardness of my heart. Again, while praying, I used every effort to picture to my view the horrors of the burning world, and bring to my soul a feeling sense of the ag- onizing pains of the damned ; but instead of this, my soul was filled with joy, and the exclamation, " Glory to God !" burst from my lips. Then, for the first time, the thought was suggested, that jx)ssibly God had already forgiven all.

Though my opportunity at school had been small, I had fortu- nately succeeded in learning to read a little, yet not witliout spell- ing many of the words. My anxiety to become acquainted with

20 MEMOIRS Of*

the Scriptures, was very gi-eat. Yet, as my parents were poor and in a new country, we had to endure many privations. Gen- erally, labor occupied all my time during the day, and it being dif- ficult for us to obtain candles, I resorted to the expedient of climb- ing trees to procure the bark of the hickoiy, which burns with much flame ; and by the light of this fire, I commenced reading the Bible, with anxious interest and a prayerful heart, frequently continuing my studies two or three hours after the family had re- tired to rest. As my acquaintance with the experience and evi- dences of the Christian increased, the conviction gradually settled in my mind, after an examination of my own heart, that one poor and im worthy as myself, might claim the rich and precious prom- ises of the gospel. Then again doubts and fears pained me, lest 1 should build upon a false hope, and finally perish. My prayer to God was, " If I have received remission of sins, grant unto me an evidence of the same, and forbid that I should trust in anything short of that eflfectual change, which alone can prepare the soul for the pure joys of the heavenly world." My mind continued thus exercised in supplication, until, though slow of heart to believe. a partial witness of having experienced regeneration, gladdened my heart, and caused me to exclaim, with the angels, " Over Judah's hallowed plain," " Glory to God in the highest ; on earth peace, and good will toward men."

The period from my consecrating myself to God by oath till this time, was eighteen months. Soon after, in a conference meet- ing of the Calvinistic Baptists, I arose for the first time, repeated a hymn that rested with some weight on my mind, and then sat down. Some were surprised, for as yet nothing had escaped my lips, respecting my state of mind. The deacon asked me if I had experienced a change of heart. I was embarrassed, fearing to say that I had, or had not ; but after a short pause, I answered, " I do not know." He then remarked, that he liad observed many in childhood commence apparently a religious course ; but that it had given him little satisfaction, as they had generally turned to the world in a short time, and when arrived at manhood, they had be- come the worst of men. His words sunk deep into my heart, and. with my own trials and fears, shook my confidence. Doubts, like a flood, rushed again upon me ; for I thought, were I a Christian, surely they would take me by the hand and gently lead me in the way. But, being unwilling to give up heaven, I continued more fervent in prayer, constantly asking of the Lord wisdom, patience and humility, l)eseeching him to keep me from deception and false hopes. Heaven lent a gracious ear, and instead of sinking under trials, my faith was increased, and my hope so confirmed, that not a doubt remained. And T thought frequently, though the world

DAVID MARKS. 21

should dispute, I could but believe Heaven had bestowed the " pearl of great price." Wlien a few weeks had passed, I arose in a meeting, after hearing the sermon, and confessed the grace of God, declaring my conviction, that by the same, my soul had been " redeemed from among men." Returning home, great peace glad- dened my heart. My faith became more settled, and, at times, my joy seemed to be full. I had always supposed that a change of heart was accompanied with some outward wonder ; that the Sa- vior or an angel would appear in the heavens ; or some sudden shock, as of electricity, would for an instant cause pain of body. And when Jesus, in a still small voice, removed my guilt and filled my soul with peace and joy, experience was so opposite to my ex- pectation, that it often seemed impossible, that it could be a saving change, which thus caused me to rejoice and love the humble saints.

One rule given in the word of God, whereby we may know that we have passed from death unto life, is, love to the brethren. This witness is plain ; and when we have certain evidence that our attachment to the saints is peculiar to their Christian character, and proportionate to the degree of hohness they possess, then we may be sure that we have been accepted of the Lord. The Chris- tian need not remain in doubts, darkness and tempests, but may come to the faith of assurance ; not by waiting for God to work miracles for his confirmation, but by searching the Scripture evi- dences, proving his own heart, and constantly bearing the cross. When Naaman, the Syrian, came to the prophet of Israel, he sup- posed that some great thing would be wrought visibly, to effect a cure of his leprosy. Thus, many have expected that regeneration should effect some change in nature, or that some visible wonder, rather than submission of heart and reconciliation to God, should give them evidence of salvation. And when a silent voice has removed their burden, and composure of soul, with love to God and his people, has succeeded, they have passed the time of their conversion without a witness of it ; and though unable to fmd their former convictions and condemnation, they have neglected to take the cross or embrace the promises, and thus for years have walked in darkness, not knowing whither they went. Would such diligently search the Scriptures, examine their hearts and try their spirit, they would learn the nature and evidence of a saving change, and thereby know, as well as Paul, " If their earthly house of this tab- ernacle were, dissolved, they have a building of God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens ;" and instead of continu- ing babes in knowledge, they would grow to the stature of men and women in Christ Jesus.

22 MEMOIRS OP

No revival marked the period of my conversion and public pro- fession of the same. Professors were greatly at ease in Zion, and scorn, contempt, and derision were heaped upon me. However, it affected me little, for the applause and glory of the world ap- j^eared as vanity of vanities ; " All flesh seemed as grass and the flower of griiss ;" but the approbation of God, as a treasure that endureth forever. Though opposition and persecution from nearly all were combined to discourage me, yet the Lord gave grace and strength equal to my day, and enabled me in all places, as opportunity presented, to bear the cross and testify to the truth. In the public assembly, even when there was no liberty given, feel- ing the Lord required it, I was frequent in my testimonies. For this, many thought me forward, but in no other way could I have a conscience void of offence toward God and man.

In the fall of the year 1818, upon relating my experience to the Calvinistic Baptist church in Junius, they received me as a candidate for baptism ; but as it was then evening, rainy, and the water two miles distant, through woods, they deferred its perform- ance till the next covenant meeting. At the appointed time, I at- tended with a change of raiment ; but here unexpected trials came upon me. The minister being unable to attend, in consequence of illness, a licensed preacher of Junius church, spoke to the people. I was not only disappointed, in not being baptized, but not a mem- ber of tlie church spoke a word of comfort to me, or even asked of my welfare. Had I not been a child, weak and inexperienced, perhaps this coldness would not have been noticed : but it touched a tender cord. I returned home much depressed in spirit, feeling as though I had no one to encourage or lead me in the way of du- ty. But the Lord was my helper, and God was my refuge ; his arm upheld me, and he turned my sorrow into rejoicing. After this, I continued to attend their covenant meetings, in which they practised speaking to each member of the church, but gave no lib- erty to others. Believing the command to be baptized still obli- gatory, and feeling anxious to walk in the path of obedience, twice, at different periods, I spoke without liberty, at the close of the meeting, and renewed my request for baptism ; but received no direct answer. None of the members pretended even to speak to me, and the same coldness was constantly manifested on all occa- sions. The cause I knew not ; but it finally worked for my good, as it taught me, that in the Rock of ages alone should be my trust and my strength.

My parents, believing the ministry would be the great work of my life, and that a collegiate course of study was a necessary preparation, concluded to place me in a free school, as they them- selves were unable to defray the consequent expense. Having

DAVID MARKS. 23

heard that in Providence, R. I., provisions were made for educate ing the indigent, I left home alone at the age of thirteen, in com- pliance with the wishes of my parents, to travel on foot, among strangers, the distance of 368 miles, expecting to be absent five or six years. My Heavenly Father provided me friends. Strangers, when they learned the object of my journey, were very kind, of- ten bestowing a little money to defray my expenses : sometimes they would weep, and frequently express much surprise upon see- ing a child alone, so far from home. At times, while thinking of my friends beneath the parental roof, lonely and sohtary feelings weighed down my spirit ; yet the Lord of Hosts was my com- forter. He dispersed the gloom, by pouring heavenly consolation into my bosom. Frequent opportunities of riding relieved, in a great measure, the tediousness of the journey. In twelve days, I reached Providence, and was kindly received by Mr. Messei'S, President of Brown University, to whom I delivered a letter from my parents. After a stay of two days, he informed me that tui- tion would be free, but no provision was made for board and cloth- ing ; and advised me to go to an Institution in Mass. where he thought a reception would be afforded, agreeably to my wishes.* He offered me a letter of introduction to the Directors of that Institution, but the fear that admission would not be granted, and an expectation, that equal privileges might be enjoyed nearer home, in Hamilton, N. York, where a free school was soon to be established, induced me to return homeward. My heart was not free from trial and temptation. While traveling one evening near Albany, I came to a toll bridge, and all around being silent, the following suggestions were presented. " You are now a child, in a land of strangers, without sufficient money to bear your expen- ses to your parents ; you can climb this gate, pass over the bridge, without harming it, and thus save a little, that will do you good, without injury to any one." With these views, I passed over the gate, when feelings of guilt and condemnation so burdened me, that I turned aside to a retired place, and there laid my case be- fore the Lord, beseeching him to lead me in the path of duty, and keep me from sinning against him. Feeling an impression to re- turn, and like an honest child, pay for crossing the bridge, I sin- cerely wished myself the other side of the gate. Thinking the deed must be undone, and not wishing it to be known, I conclud- ed to climb the gate, and then request to have it opened for my passage ; but while in the act of getting over, a woman heard me, and coming to the door, much to my alarm, exclaimed; "What!

* I was afterwards informed that some of the students much regretted they had not known my case ; and that they said had they known it, they would have sustained me through a course of study.

24 MEMOIRS OP

are you climbing the gate ?" Trembling, I related to her my situ- ation, the struggle of my mind with regard to duty, and my wish to pay the toll. Laughing heartily, she replied, " Ah, dear child, you may go free, I will receive nothing, and may blessings follow you." She then opened the gate, when, with a light heart and an approving conscience, I continued my journey, and reached home, after an absence of twenty-five days.

Passages were so frequently given me in stages and in other car- riages, that not more than one third of this journey was perform- ed on foot. And with few exceptions, those persons with whom I tarried and received of their liberality, would accept any recom- pense ; but generally conversed familiarly with me, and asked me to pray with them. In compliance with their invitations, my soul was often greatly blessed. After my return, the information that none could be freely educated in Hamilton without bail, that should be accountable for the expense, in case they should ever preach any other doctrine than that believed by the C. Baptists, induced me to relinquish the idea of pursuing a course of literary study?

I continued to attend the Baptist covenant meetings, and was treated with the same studied coldness as before. Six months had passed, since the church received me as a candidate for baptism, and still all was silence on the subject. As yet, the vote of fel- lowship had neither been recalled nor disannulled. A sense of the solemn duty lay so heavily on my mind, that I again renewed the request, in case they still believed me a fit subject ; and if not, 1 desired them to let me know it. They now discussed the subject, and obsei'ved, that when I was received, a part of the church on- ly was present, consequently, the absent members were unacquaint- ed with my experience ; and added, that some of those, who did receive me, on consideration had changed their minds. Being re- quested, I again related my experience, and my present exercises. They wished to know my sentiments, concerning particular and unconditional election, and communion, as believed and practiced by them. I told them it was a doubt in my mind, whether those views were agreeable to the Scriptures. The whole church, with one exception, voted they were not satisfied with my experience, and could not receive me. Trials now pressed heavily upon me, and I felt like a lone and friendless child. Something whispered, " What folly to think you are a Christian, when men of piety and experience disown you. You are but a child, and do you know more than the whole church ?" My temptations were very great. But to the Lord only could I go ; and had he not granted succor, by especially manifesting himself, despondence w^ould have discour- aged me, and that, perhaps, forever. My oath was sacred ; and its performance diligently attended. The grace of God was suflS-

DAVID MARKS. 25

dent for me, and if ever the consolation of his Spirit gladdened my heart, it did in those days. My peace became like a river, and wintry trials gave place to the cheering joys of spring and sum- mer. I attended meetings with different denominations, particu- larly the Methodist, and often had happy seasons, feeling my spir- itual strength renewed. But their sentiments not being in every particular congenial with my own, I could not find that my home was with them.

In the month of July, 1819, Elder Zebulon Dean, and his com- panion, having heard of my situation, and feeling interested, sent an appointment to our neighborhood, and came thirty miles, accom- panied by brother Samuel Wire, then an unordained preacher, and two other brethren. They were Freewill Baptists, and the first of whom I had any knowledge. On Saturday, July 10th, I met with them and learned their sentiments and spirit, w^hich so well accord- ed with my own views and feelings, that desiring to be baptized, I related to them my experience and sentiments, also the manner in which my application to unite with the Baptist church had been received and afterwards rejected. They expressed satisfaction with my experience, approved of my sentiments, and the next day, being the Sabbath, a meeting was appointed for preaching and ex- amination, at the house where the Baptist church usually met for worship. They having been invited to attend, were generally present, with a large concourse of people. After sermon, being requested, I stood upon a bench, and again related the dealings of the Lord with me. Elder Dean requested the church to state the reason why they did not receive me. After a space of silence, one of the members answered, that it had been understood the child w^as disobedient to liis parents. This report to me was new ; but on being traced to its source in presence of the q^sembly, it was manifest, that it had originated m misunderstanding ; and as it was contradicted by my parents and others, Elder Dean still called, not only on the church, but on the whole assembly, to show if they knew any reason that should debar me from the privileges of the house of God, and if not, charged them forever to hold their peace. Nothing more being said, the assembly resorted to the water. To me, this was a long desired and pleasant hour. When led into the stream, feeling impressed to address the people, I turned and declared to them my weariness of transgression, and my determination, through grace, forever to forsake all sin, the way of the wicked, and to travel the narrow way to the city of God. After earnestly soliciting those of my age and all sinners to begin with me to seek a better world, I assured them if they would not, I must leave them forever ; and called heaven and earth, the assembly, and even the water in which I stood, to record my 3

26 MEMOIRS OF

separation from the world, and to witness against me in the judg- ment day, if I should ever forsake the Lord ; then, having been laid in the baptismal grave and raised again, I went on my way rejoicing.

On the 17tli of the same month, I attended the Benton Quarter- ly Meeting of the Freewill Baptists, in the town of Phelps, eigh- teen miles from my father's, and was there received a member of the church in that place. Five were baptized, and a profitable season was enjoyed. After this. Elder Dean and brother Wire frequently preached in Junius. A revival followed their labors, in which some of my former persecutors were converted to the faith of the gospel. In the ensuing autumn, brother Wire was ordain- ed. He and Elder Dean baptized fifteen in Junius, who united with the church in Phelps ; but in January following, they w^ere dismissed and acknowledged a church in Junius, taking the Scrip- tures for their only rule of faith and practice. Being absent at the time of its organization, I did not become one of its members till the ensuing spring. This church walked in gospel order sever- al months, and enjoyed many happy seasons. But the summer of prosperity passed, and the winter of adversity succeeded. New and unexpected trials brought heaviness and mourning. Seven or eight, who first united and were well engaged, soon turned aside after satan and walked no more with us. Iniquity abounding, the love of some waxed cold. Every feeling of my soul was pained, when those with whom I had taken sweet counsel, thus wounded the innocent cause of Jesus and brought it into reproach. But while our number decreased by excommunications, the Lord more than supplied the vacancies by adding to the church of such as should be saved. Determined, by the help of God, to walk in the truth and keep all the commandments, I embraced every opportu- nity of attending meetings of worship ; when generally my spirit was pressed within me to warn the wicked of the necessity of a preparation to meet God ; and I seldom remained silent, as this brought condemnation to my soul.

DAVID MARK,3. 27

CHAPTER HI.

Call to the ministry, and the particidars of my exercises and gospel labors for three months.

Nov. 4, 1820, completed my fifteenth year. On this day, going alone into a wood on a high hill, while the rain was descending, I fell npon the ground, and formally dedicated myself anew to God, promising faithfulness and full submission to his will. In this ded- ication, casting my eyes upon the surrounding country, I had a view of the gospel harvest, and felt the first serious impression, that du- ty would call me to labor therein.

On Jan. 1, 1821, having been solicited by Elder Dean, I left home and went to Benton and Milo, where a revival was pro- gressing, and there attended several meetings with the Elder, generally giving an exhortation after sermon. Thus three weeks quickly passed, when my parents, meeting me at the Ben- ton Quarterly Meeting, in Phelps, desired my immediate re- turn. Elders Dean and Fowler, after some entreaty, obtained their leave for my attendance at an extra Quarterly Meeting in Ontario. My parents gave me liberty to accompany Elder Dean to several other places also, provided I should first return with them. Ac- cordingly I returned home, and after a stay of two days, I left on Wednesday for Ontario, forty miles distant. A deep snow' had fallen, which was much drifted, and the weather was extremely cold, insomuch that few ventured from their firesides. After wacl- ing through the snow thirteen miles, and suffering considerably, I found my toes were frozen, and consequently proceeded no farther till the next day.* Arriving at Ontario, I was glad to meet Eld- ers Dean and Fowler. At this meeting some refreshing was en- joyed, and it pleased the Lord to give me freedom Avhile speaking in his name. After its close, Elder Dean took me with him to Benton, Milo, and Poultney. In the latter place, the power of God was manifest in our meeting. One cried aloud for mercy, and soon -after professed to find pardon. Others were seriously affected, but suffered the enemy to catch away the seed that was so^vn in their hearts.

Returning to Benton, I attended a few meetings. During this period, one day when the rain and snow were descending on the earth, while at the house of Elder Dean, I felt the first direct impulse as if from Heaven, " Go thou and preach the gospel^ Every surrounding object now assumed a mournful aspect ; and

* Afterwards, I heard of nine persons, who, ou thia day, were frozen to death at dif- fereut places in this section.

28 MEMOIRS OF

retiring immediately to a wood on the shore of Seneca lake, half a mile from any house, I cast myself upon the beach, where the rest- less waves uttered a hoarse murmur on one side, and the bleak winds rustled in the forest on the other. Raising a tearful eye to Heaven, I exclaimed, " O my God, is this truly from thee ? and must I, an ignorant child, go and preach thy gospel?" After w^eeping awhile upon the ground, I arose and queried thus with myself; " Can it be, that God will pass by the learned, the wise, the experienced, antl choose a child of fifteen years to preach the gospel ?" When about to answer in the negative, I cast my eyes eastward as I arose, and in an instant, by impression, saw myself a friendless child, running to and fro in the earth to M^arn the wicked of their danger. From these unpressions, I began to gath- er that God would put me into his vineyard, and that the time was at hand. A view of leaving parental care, the society of home, of wandering in a land of strangers, while yet but a child, of facing the bleak storms, and enduring the fatigues of journey- ing oft, and of the trials and persecutions that awaited me, now rushed upon my soul, overpowered my feelings, and constrained me to weep aloud. After this burst of grief had a little abated, I said, " Lord, I am a child, how can I preach ?" and walking over the water on a fallen tree, I gazed therein, and thought, how pleasant would be a watery tomb, if it might hide me from a life of exile. A sweet voice wliispered, " My grace is sufficient for thee. ' Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings, I have perfect- ed praise." Duty was made plain ; I consented to walk in the path of obedience, and peace of soul ensued.

On my return to Junius, finding my parents unwilling to give me permission to leave them again, I related to them my exer- cise of mind, and impression of the duty God required of me ; and added, if they thought it would be right to keep me at home, the}' would be accountable, and my conscience would be clear in the sight of Heaven. They thought they should be justifiable in thus doing, and told me my labor was so much needed, they could not spare me. I returned to my former avocations, but nature seem- ed clothed vni\i solemnity ; the concerns of earth seemed of little moment ; the hapless children of men, sinking to wo by unbelief, w^ere constantly presented to my view. Day and night I wej^t and mourned for them at mercy's altar. Sleep often fled my pillo^v, ■while it was bedewed with tears.

One evening, after retiring to rest, a sense of the state of the wicked rolled upon my mind ; and a little after midnight, I retired to the lonely forest, and there prostrated myself on the snow. Du- ty called me to go out into the world, and warn my fellow crea- tures to flee from the wrath to come ; to proclaim the glad tidings

DAVID MARKS. 29

of salvation, "the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of ven- geance of our Grod." Again, a view of the storms of opposition and persecution that awaited me, was suddenly presented, together with the painful scene of leaving the tender care of those dear parents, who from the days of infancy had guided the steps of my childhood, and checked its waywardness. My beloved brothers and dear sister clung to my affections. I recollected my scanty education, having enjoyed the advantages of a school only ten months ; and had to reflect on my situation, destitute even of con- venient raiment. I thought, surely naen will despise my youth as well as my counsel, and the truth will be disgraced. Yet the path in which God was calling me to walk, was made plain ; and in obedience alone was peace. Clay had been used to open the eyes of the blind, and the power of God was still the same. Re- signing myself to his vdW, my heart was encouraged, and I desired the Lord to open the way, that my whole time might be devoted to warn the unconverted, and point them to the Lamb of God : and I believed that I should bear patiently their abuse, contempt,, and reproach. These exercises of mind continued and increased^ while sorrow was depicted on my countenance. In my sleeping and waking moments, I felt that the blood of souls would be re- quired at my hand, and that ' wo' would be mine, if I preached not the gospel.

One day while cutting trees in the wood, I became almost lost to all sense of my labor, and frequently sat down, and wept for the miseries that awaited the ungodly. My father, observing this,, called me to the house. Endeavoring to conceal my grief, I obey- ed his call without any suspicion of his motive. Giving me a chair, he asked me to sit down. This unusual manner excited my surprise ; I observed both Ms countenance and my 'mother''s were sad, and they appeared to have been weeping. With an agitated voice, my father said tenderly, " My son, why have you been weep- ing?" Till now, I had not thought my grief had been discover- ed ; but after a pause, I answered : " The Lord is calling me to warn poor perishing sinnei*s of their danger, but I cannot go, for my parents are unwilling." They burst into tears, and my father said, " My son, you may go. For some time we have felt we were like Pharaoh, who would not let the children of Israel go to- worship God in the wilderness. We give you your time, and will no longer detain you." My feelings were overpowered. Our tears mingled together, and I thanked God.

At this time a gi-eat revival was progressing in Brutus and Ca-

millus, twenty miles from Junius. Feeling anxious to see this work,

and labor in it according to my ability, I left home, walked fifteen

miles to Brutus, and spent the night among strangers, who were

3*

30 MEMOIRS or

kind. The next day, understanding Elder E. Shaw would preaeh and baptize about four miles from the place of my lodging, I went to his meeting. I knew no difference among Christians, still I closely watched all that passed, felt much interested, and thought the countenances of the people showed who among them were the followers of the Lamb. After preaching, several spoke of the things God had done for them, and it seemed that I was in my fa- ther's family. Standing upon a bench in order to see the assem- bly, I exhorted them a few moments, and remarked, that as the antediluvians were disobedient, while the ark was preparing, and the flood destroyed them ; so if they in this revival, and in this life, were indifferent, the Lord would send a storai of fire, and de- stroy them in like manner. I enjoyed much freedom, and it pleas- ed the Lord to touch the assembly. After meeting, many spoke with me, invited me to their houses, and to attend different meet- ings, so that I no more felt as a stranger or wanted an open door. At the conclusion. Elder Shaw baptized eleven, who came out of the stream, apparently very happy, and some of them shouted for joy. The evening was spent in a prayer meeting that continued nearly all night, in which three professed to be converted.

Several days following were spent in Brutus, attending prayer, conference, and preaching meetings, and visiting families. I em- braced every opportunity of testifying to all, small and great, rich and poor, both publicly and from house to house, repentance to- ward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Some were awak- ened, and professed to obtain reconciliation with God. In one of my visits at a public house, I desired to pray with the family, but was denied ; then I requested the privilege of praying in the bar- room, where the traveller is allowed to swear without asking leave, but this also was denied. Reflecting that the street was free, and ob- serving there would be liberty there, I went out and kneeled down before the house, and besought the Lord to have mercy on this family. Li the meantime, I was afterward informed, the landlord took a horse-whip, and came out to drive me away from prayer, and' whip me from the place ; but meeting a young man of the Presbyterian church at his door, who had just commenced preach- ing, he seized him by the collar, and said, " You rascal, why lia^e you sent that boy here to pray ?" The young man replied, " I have not : God sent him." Before the dispute ended, I was visit- ing other families. Still the revival passed, and this family took not warning to forsake their sins, neither shared they in the work.

In that part of Brutus called Jericho, a certain young man, while I was exhorting him to repentance, swore Yevj wickedly, for which T told him, he must give account to God. He raised his axe, and bid me, " Be gone," swearing if I said any more, he would throw

1>AVID MAllKS. 31

it at my head. Turning to go away, I replied, " Remember for all these things, God will bring thee into judgment." He appear- ed angry, and casting down his axe, took up a stick of wood with both hands, and threw at me. I was then about a rod from him, and immediately stopped in order to suffer patiently the effects of his wrath, hoping that conviction might fasten on his heart. The stick passed just over my head ; he threw a second, that passed be- hind me ; a third, which only touched my leg ; a fourth, that just missed me. It really seemed the Lord was my defence. Not sat- isfied with these attempts at abuse, he came with a loaded horse- whip, and gave me a severe blow, which caused exquisite pain, and left its mark for two weeks. His father, with some others, stopped him, and prevented any further violence. Proceeding a little distance on my way, I felt grieved at his awful situation, and prayed God to have mercy on his soul. A\1iile on my kness, the young man passed by, and swearing very wickedly, loaded me with curses.

In the latter part of my stay in these regions, I went into Ca- millus, and attended several meetings in the village of Elbridge, where the revival was progressing powerfully, and visited consid- erably from house to^house, praying with the anxious and exliort- ing them to resign every thing for Jesus' sake. In the family of a certain lawyer, where I had been invited, I enjoyed much freedom in conversation and prayer. One of the daughters was awakened to seek the " pearl of great price." Shortly afterward, her father told me that she had become discouraged, and invited me to call again. I complied with his request, and again prayed with her, and she again renewed her covenant. Soon after this, she was converted, and publicly professed faith in Christ. Within the cir- cle of my visits, was the family of a respectable merchant, who himself was a lover of religion ; but his companion was opposed to the revival. I requested liberty to pray, which was granted ; and my poor heart felt encouraged, when, as I arose, his wife was in tears. After adding a few words of exhortation, I went out ; the merchant following, spoke affectionately to me, and left a half dol- lar in my hand. Soon after, in compliance with his request, I vis- ited them a second time, and prayed with his companion, who again seemed affected, but not fully persuaded to embrace Christ. Alas ! how many wait for a convenient season, to their own de- struction.

In the east part of Camillus, I attended several meetings, pass- ed through some severe trials, and spent many solitary hours, feeling like a lonely stranger in the earth, often weeping till my eyes were sore. Persecution met me on almost every hand ; some said the lad ought to be whipped home, &c. At an evening meetmg where

32 MEMOIRS Of

Elder Morrill preached, I spoke in exhortation. After Its close, no one inviting me to a lodging, I was left alone in the house. But soon after, Elder Morrill kindly inquired for me, returned, and took me to the place where he was staying. The grief and discourage- ment that overcame me, touched his heart ; and taking me into his lap, as he would a child, he spoke words of consolation that gave me relief. I enjoyed much satisfaction in the revival in these towns ; and notwithstanding my severe trials, my faith was con- firmed, that duty called me to labor in the vineyard of the Lord ; and my heart was encouraged by the success with which Grod blessed my feeble endeavors in the awakening and conversion of a few.

It was calculated, that in Brutus, Camillus, and the adjacent towns, six or seven hundred professed to pass from death unto life. In this work I labored about one month and attended forty -four meetings ; but did not confine myself to a text, or pretend to ser- monize. When about to return home, I was much interested at Treat settlement, with Moses Manrow, a lad of about fifteen years, belonging to the denomination called Christian. He exhibited much talent in public speaking, for one of his age, appeared humble, and de- desired to travel with me. The proposal was pleasing, for I believed he would make a good yoke fellow in the gospel ; and being admit- ted as a companion, on the 17th of April, 1821, he accompanied me on my return to my parents.

CHAPTER IV.

Particulars of a three months' journey to Holland Purchase.

A week soon passed in the society of the family circle, and its enjoyment was sweet to my soul. During this period, my mother conversed and advised much with me on such subjects as she thought would be useful; a presentiment seeming fixed in her mind, that she was enjoying the last opportunity she should ever have, to bestow her counsel. Her words sunk deep into my heart, and, with thankfulness, I blessed God for a pious and affectionate mother. The passing moments seemed precious, while I listened to the sweet accents that fell from her lips, and endeavored to trea- sure up the instruction she was giving me. Home was pleasant ; but the time was at hand that required my departure.

DAVID MARKS. 33

The church in Junius had given me a letter of commendation ; and the morning of April 2G, was appointed for mj departure. It dawned a beautiful morning ; but grief sat heavy on our hearts. Together we bowed at the altar of mercy, where often in days that are past, we had felt the consolations of Heaven, and had been united to each other by ties stronger than those of natui-al affection. My mother, with a trembling voice, called on the name of the Lord, and fervently entreated, that his preserving power and choice blessings might attend her beloved son, just going from her care, perhaps for ever. Often she had prayed for me — and bitter now was the thought, that this might be the last time I should ever hear her supplications in my behalf. The moment of separation had come ; and giving my brothers and sisters the parting hand, I pass- ed from the parental roof. My parents followed me to the corner of the house. The weeping father then took me by the hand, and in a faltering voice, said, ''Whenever you wish to return, my house shall be your home. God bless you, my son. Farewell." My dear mother then giving me a dollar, grasped my hand, and pressed it affectionately. On casting a look at her features, I saw they were convulsed ; the big swelling tears rolling fast from her eyes, betrayed the conflict in her bosom. Her chin quivered, her lips moved, and she faintly articulated, " Adieu ! my child, adieu ! The Lord go with thee." My spirit almost failed within me, while I witnessed their agonizing emotions. Bidding them farewell, I sighed adieu, again and again. But O, the feelings of my heart! Where am I going ? Into the wide world ; to face its frowns ; en- dure its taunts and vile reproaches, as once my Master did. But, " It is enough that the servant be as his lord." Coming to a rise of ground, in sight of my father's house, I turned to view once more the beloved forms of those dear parents, and cast on them my last look. They were standing where we parted, apparently weep- ing, and following with their eyes the departing child, as though anxious to catch the last glimpse. My mother's face was some- what bowed down, and the sight touched again every tender feel- ing, awakening all my sympathy, till, in addition to my own, their sorrow became my sorrow. I gave another look, thinking perhaps it was the last, then sighed farewell. The places where I had passed the scenes of childhood, now met my sight, and seemed bound to my affections by a thousand tender associations. But while grief was almost bursting my heart, the sweet promise of Cln-ist, contained in Mark 10:29, 30, dropped as if fix)m heaven in- to my soul ; " There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive a hundred fold now in this time, houses, and brethi*en, and sisters, and mothei"s, and

34: MEMOIRS OI^

children, and lands, with persecutions ; and in the world to come eternal life." My mourning was now turned into rejoicing, and raj tears into songs of praise.

After walking twenty-one miles, in company with the lad before mentioned, we found entertainment for the night a few miles south of Greneva, with a Congregationalist family, who were kind. In the morning we proceeded to Benton ; and there visited from house to house, conversing with all, as opportunity presented, upon the importance and necessity of a speedy preparation to meet God. A young man at a tavern, whom I thus counselled, scoiFed at me, and ridiculed religion. My soul was pained, and falling on ray knees, I besought the Lord to touch the heart of this young man by his Spirit — give him to see the aggravated nature of his trans- gressions, and to feel his need of the Savior. While thus suppli- cating the mercy of God, the young man continued to talk in a loud tone of voice, and finally asked me to take some tobacco. His mother, though a professor, instead of reproving him, reprimanded me severely, for going about talking to people older than myself. After justifying my practice, by telling her I believed the Lord re- quired it at my hand, she closed the conversation with a remark too vulgar to name. Taking leave of them, I went on my way, sigh- ing for the evil done by professors, .who are destitute of the mind that was in Christ Jesus. Their conduct strengthens the hands of the wicked. They enter not into the kingdom themselves, and them that would enter, they hinder.

April 29, Sabbath, we attended a meeting in Milo — in which I spake a few minutes under considerable embarrassment — ^and after- ward retired to a wood much depressed in spirit, and sorely pained with doubts and fears, lest I had mistaken the path of duty in at- tempting to labor in Zion. Returning to the house of a friend, and finding no relief, I determined to fast and pray. Li doing this, all doubts and gloom were dispersed, and my heart was encouraged to continue in the work of the Lord.

Tuesday, May 1, I spoke to a crowded and solemn audience, and it was a season of refreshing to my soul. Meeting an assembly at the house of Deacon Knapp, in Wayne, I spoke fi-om this text, — " The wages of sin is death ; but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord." The Holy Spii'it touched the hearts of some, and many wept. Thursday, in a meeting on the east side of Crooked lake, the Lord was with me, and his Spirit at- tended the word. After this, crossing the lake near Bluff Point, and walking a few miles into Poultney, I spoke to an assembly ; but- to me it was a barren season, and the language of my heart was, ' how can I preach the gospel to a hard-hearted and gainsay- ing people.' Finding an answer, " My grace is sufficient for thee,"

DAVID MARKS. 35

we went to the north part of Poiiltney, and there spoke the word to a few, who heard with candor.

Saturday, May 5, I went to Jerusalem, and gave out appoint- ments for the next day. Sabbath morning, at the hour of nine, we met for worship on the west hill in Jerusalem. The assembly was large, and it was a time of Emmanuel's power : several wept, and kneeled for prayers. At one o'clock, P. M., the Lord assisted me in speaking to a crowded and solemn assembly on the east hill of Jerusalem: two manifested a resolution to seek the Lord. At three o'clock, P. M., I met another congregation in the north part of the town, and enjoyed the presence of my Master. Here, M. Manrow left me suddenly, without assigning any reason. At six in the evening, I attended a fourth meeting in Middlesex, and the next day walked twelve miles, and attended two meetings. The day following, I visited Canandaigua ; and meeting the Episcopa* lian minister in the street, stated to him my desire to speak to the people concerning the things of eternity. " What !" said he, " are you preaching? You are not capable of preaching. You cannot preach. We put young gifts to learning, till they become men." He then left me. After several fruitless attempts to find a house open for meeting, among professed Christians, I turned to " Cesar's kingdom," and without difficulty obtained leave to hold a meeting in the court house. About one hundred assembled. While stating in my introduction, the reason of my leaving home, and the partic- ular exercises of my mind concerning public speaking, a gentle- man in the jurors' seat, looked me steadfastly in the face, and said, " Young man, we came to hear you preach ; not to hear your ex- perience. If you are going to preach, we wish you to proceed." This somewhat confused me ; however I named a text, and pro- ceeded with some embarrassment. About twenty left the assembly before the conclusion of the discourse. At the close of the meet- ing, one gentleman gave me half a dollar, and another, a small piece. During my discourse, I observed two men without the court house in earnest conversation, and pointing towards me ; and when passing the jail, a woman came to the door, and asked me a num- ber of questions concerning my manner of life. After proceeding a little distance, I saw a man leave the jail, and come after me in a wagon with much speed. These circumsta,nces, together with that of many having left the meeting, induced me to think they might possibly look on me with suspicion, and wish to put me in jail. The man overtook me, said he supposed I was a stranger, and in* vited me to go home with him. As it was three miles from my purposed route, it was after considerable solicitation that I return* ed. He was a Calvinistic Baptist, and treated me as a friend.

36 MEMOIRS OP

The little good effect apparent from my last meeting, and the contempt manifested at my endeavors to warn, the wicked, bore heavily upon me. In addition to this, my friend told me, he thought my learning was not sufficient to make my public addresses gener- ally interesting ; and advised me to go home and stay, till I should be of age, or at least two or three years. I now felt a deeper lone- liness than I had ever before experienced. Though entreated, I could not eat, but retired to my lodging, where sleep was a stran- ger, and there gave vent to my grief, till my eyes were sore with weeping. In the morning my grief was not assuaged, nor the foun- tain of my tears di'ained. I ate no breakfast, but went my way before the sun rose, passed through the village of Canandaigua into Gorham, and there turned aside in a wood, and laid myself on tlie earth. 'My sorrow seemed greater than I could bear ; and life seemed such a burden, that I was tempted to starve myself. As this would be sin, I dared not resolve, — but thought, could I go home, gladly would I haste to parental care. Beneath the shady boughs of Gorham, I mourned, somewhat like Jonah under the gourd, and desired death, unless my faith and hope should be in- creased; then lifting my eyes toward heaven, I said, 'O Lord, why hast thou sent me, a child, when men of experience might go ? Why hast thou called an ignorant youth, and left the learned at home ? I am had in derision, and mocked by the enemies of the cross.' Two ways appeared ; either to go home, and renounce all ideas of ever attempting to preach again, and thus please the great- er part of my acquaintance, many of my bretln-en, and my natural mind — or to continue laboring in the vineyard, and face a storm of opposition. Feeling that necessity was laid upon me, that wo would be mine if I preached not the gospel, I dared not disobey. Leav- ing the wood, I went to a house, where the people were kind. They gave me some food, and had a meeting notified in their vi- cinity. The next day, I attended three meetings ; and the day fol- lowing, walked twenty-five miles to Lyons, where the Benton Quar- terly Meeting was to be held the 12th and loth of May.

Here I received a letter from my mother. It brought heavy ti- dings, and a trial of which I had not thought. My father's house was again burned with all its contents. This ti*ying scene happen- ed only the Wednesday previous. My parents desired me to re- turn and visit them in their affliction, provided I could have per- mission from the Lord. Retiring to a field alone, solitude seemed written on all below. I thought of the continued series of misfor- tunes that had afflicted my dear parents, tiU all my sympathies were awakened. Reading the letter again and again, I laid the case before the Lord, when Luke 9:59, " Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father," occurred to my recollection ; and our

DAVID MARKS* 37

Lord''s answer, " Let the dead bury their dead, but go thou and preach the kingdom of God," kept passing through my mind. Fi- nally, concluding I could do but little good should I return, and believing the Lord still called me to go west, I wrote to my par- ents, stating my sympathy for them, and conviction of duty, and sent back the dollar that my mother gave me on the morning of our separation.

Monday, leaving for the Holland Purchase, I walked nine miles and held two meetings, in which some were awakened, who short- ly professed to find Jesus. The two following days were spent in Ontario, where I attended three meetings, and enjoyed peace and liberty. Continuing my journey I crossed the Genesee river, and in the afternoon of Friday, arrived at Eld. Jonathan N. Hinkley's, in Hinckleyville. He had gone to the Bethany Quarterly Meet- ing, which was to commence in Attica the next day. I stated that I was going to that meeting, and requested something to eat. Sis- ter Hinckley inquired whence I came, the object of my journey, &c. Being answered, she said within herself, as she afterward informed me, ' A likely story, that you, a little boy, have come more than a hundred miles on foot to attend a Quarterly Meeting !' Thus she concluded, I had only said this to get something to eat, which she gave me, and let me go my way. I walked that even- ing fifteen miles, to Byron, and about eleven o'clock, called at bro. Gilman's, and found all had retired to rest. One arose, however, unbolted the door, and gave me admission. After hearing my in- troduction, he conducted me to the cupboard, and then to a lodging with Elder Hinckley, who tarried in the house that night. This was my first interview with him ; and the next morning, though a stranger, he pitied my weariness, and insisted that I should ride on his beast a part of the way to Attica, which was twenty-one miles.

At one o'clock, P. M., we entered the meeting, and Eld. Hinck- ley shortly after arose on the stand, looked around on the assem- bly with a piercing eye, and then said : " I was not coming to this place. I was going to Clarkson. But the Lord God said to me, * Attica — Attica — Attica;' and I am here, thank God." He then sat down. Feeling the cold chills pass over me, I looked ai'ound and saw tears starting from many eyes. About one minute after, he arose again and said : " It was in the north country, in the month of April, when the snow was several feet deep on the earth, that the Lord God found Jonathan, the atheist, and converted his soul —and the leafless trees stretched their arms toward heaven and praised God." Again, he took his seat ; but such was the power that attended these words, that nearly the whole assembly were in tears. The preaching that followed was interesting and refresh- 4

38 MEMOIRS OF

ing. Here I saw several ministers for the first time, some of whom treated me affectionately; others, though they used me tenderly, gave me to understand, they were doubtful of my being in the path of duty, as they feared I had run without being sent. Again I fell into a sore trial. For the opinion of preachers having much in- fluence with me, I thought it possible that I might have been mis- taken respecting duty. The query was presented to me, " How can it be, that the Lord has called you to labor in his vineyard, when so many good people believe it not ?" Retiring to a vale, I walked on the banks of the Tonewanta, and my spirit sunk within me ; now again I became weary of my life — and had strong temp- tations to put a period to it. Could I have felt liberty from the Lord to return home, my trial would have ceased ; but this I felt forbidden to do. A monitor within strengthened me to resist temptation, and continue in the work ; for it appeared that I must know my duty for myself; and that, as another could not discharge it, so another could not decide upon a case, that was wholly be- tween God and my own soul. I returned to the Quarterly Meet- ing about the time it closed, and spoke to those who would stay to hear.

Monday, I held two meetings, — in one of which, some appeared to be deeply convicted of their lost condition. On the day follow- ing, I attended three meetings : in one of these, after sohciting those who desired religion, to rise — and promising that I would try to pray for them, twenty stood up in the assembly ; and several of them by sighs and tears, confessed the danger they were in, by liv- ing in sin.

Wednesday, I spoke to an assembly in Bennington. The Spirit of the Lord was present, to the joy of saints and the conviction of sinners. At eight the next morning, agreeably to appointment, I met a congregation in Attica. Six were awakened to view their lost condition, and promised to seek the Savior. At evening in the same neighborhood, I held a meeting that continued till after three o'clock in the morning. The Spirit of God was manifest in a mar- vellous manner. Saints rejoiced and shouted aloud for joy — sin- ners fell to the floor, wept and cried aloud for mercy. Having nev- er witnessed such a scene before, I said, rashly, within myself, 'it is confusion;' and this Scripture, "Our God is not the author of confusion," came to my recollection ; and in my heart I condemn- ed the work, till several of the awakened spoke forth the praises of God, before my eyes, and told what the Lord had done for their souls. Then, after considering the subject again, and the accounts in sacred writ of certain meetings, where the Spirit of the Lord was powerfully manifested, (see Ezra 13:12, 13. Acts 2:13 — 37,) I could but be convinced it was the work of Israel's God.

DAVID MARKS. 39

I labored in Attica and Bennington ten days, and attended twelve meetings ; in these, several bowed before the Lord for the first time, and called upon his name. Seven professed to be brought into the fold of Jesus, and several wanderers were reclaimed. Oh how glad was my heart, when the Lord looked upon the afflictions of David, and granted him the desire of his soul, in permitting his eyes to see the salvation of God. These few souls, which the Lord gave me, were dear to my heart, even as children, and appeared as seals and witnesses, that He had commissioned me to declare his word to the sons of men. I next went to Sheldon, and attended several meetings, in one of which, nearly twenty came forward for prayers, and two were soon brought to rejoice in the liberty of the sons of God.

Sunday, May 27, 1 attended six meetings ; two in Sheldon, one in Bennington, and three in Attica. The congregations were large and attentive. No unusual occurrence marked these meetings, yet it was believed good was done. The next day I travelled twenty- five miles and preached twice. The second meeting w^as in Attica, and continued till two o'clock in the morning. Six happy converts were present, and we sat together in a heavenly place in Christ. Yea, many could say,

" My willing soul would stay in such a frame as this, And sit, and sing itself away to everlasting bliss."

Tuesday, after travelling fifteen miles, I attended one meeting, — > and the day following, preached three times. The Lord was pres- ent in the assemblies, and many rejoiced in bright hopes of a happy immortality.

Thursday, I walked twelve miles, and held three meetings ; and the next day preached in the north part of Sheldon. The day fol- lowing, I went to China, where the Erie Quarterly Meeting was in session. Elders Richard M. Carey and Jeremiah Folsom were present ; the preaching and other exercises were spiritual and in- teresting.

One circumstance at this meeting greatly affected me. Having retired from the assembly a small distance, I heard a very singular sound in the barn where they were convened, that excited anxiety and alarm. I returned in haste ; and on entering the meeting, saw a young man standing before the assembly in a flood of tears ; who, by signs and gestures, was attempting to describe the joys of heaven, and the horrors of hell. The sound of his voice was inar- ticulate, but varied with his signs to express happiness and misery. The whole assembly w^as deeply affected ; to my astonishment, I found that this young man, though deaf and dumb, had opened his mouth to persuade the wicked from the way to hell. He had late-

40 MEMOIRS OF

ly experienced a hope in God, and related his experience by signs ; showing his fears of punishment by looking at the fire, and then pointing downward ; and his views of heaven, by touching things that were bright, or of the color of gold, and pointing upward. He desired and received baptism, and became a faitliful member of the church. The exercises of the meeting appeared to interest him, as much as any one ; and, though he could neither hear words, nor articulate them, yet he had sounds peculiar to exhortation, prayer and singing, accompanied by suitable gestures. I understood his public exercises had been blessed to the conversion of several. This was loud preaching, and many said, " If the Lord hath open- ed the mouth of the dumb, it is time for us, who have the use of speech, to confess Christ with the mouth unto salvation."

Sunday, June 4, 1 enjoyed unusual freedom in speaking to an as- sembly in Concord. The day following, I went to Boston, Erie county, N. Y., and the next morning, at the hour of six, spoke to a crowded congregation, where my soul was led out into the hberty of the gospel. Six ministers were present ; the hearts of the peo- ple seemed melted by the presence of the God of Sabbaoth ; and it was a time that doubtless will be remembered in eternity. I went to Nichol's settlement, and in the early part of the evening gave out an appointment. The house was soon filled, and we enjoyed a solemn waiting before God. Convicting power touched the hearts of some, who, before the exercises closed, desired the prayers of Christians. Li the morning, I held another meeting at the same place, and several covenanted to kneel and pray thrice a day, for four weeks. The day following, I preached, in Zoar ; this was a solemn, refreshing season, and at the close a number promised to seek the Savior. Saturday, I travelled fifteen miles, and held two meetings, in which twenty-five manifested- their desire for the " one thing needful." One or two of the number soon professed to find pardon through the blood of the Lamb.

Sabbath morning, June 10, after speaking to an assembly in a bam, at the hour of seven, I went to Zoar, where a large congre- gation was present ; and in declaring the glad tidings of salvation, enjoyed much freedom. Here five solemnly covenanted to kneel and pray twice a day, for the four weeks ensuing. After preach- ing again in Nichol's settlement, I rode ten miles to Boston, and found a numerous assembly, who had come out to hear the " hoi/ preacher,'" the appellation by which I was generally known. The Lord gave me confidence, with a good degree of his Spirit, and it was a weeping season. Here our hearts were made glad ; twenty- five precious awakened souls came forward, desiring the prayers of God's children. Monday, after walking twenty-seven miles, I preached once. Near the close of the meeting, I invited those who

DAVID MARKS. 41

felt a need of vsalvation, and desired to obtain it, to come forward and bow before the Lord, saying I would pray for them ; five ac- cepted the invitation. After visiting and preaching in Sheldon, Bennington, and Attica, I held a meeting in Pike, in which I was publicly opposed by a Universalist, yet there appeared some good signs.

I staid the night with a brother in Christ, whose name was John- son. Soon after rising in the morning, the form of my mother sud- denly appeared to my view, with a pallid countenance, and clad in the habiliments of death. Before I was aware, turning to the fam- ily, I said, ' My mother is dead,' and related the impression. For some time previous, she had been in my thoughts but little, and the idea that it was, or might be so, caused a bitter pang. Though fears now troubled me, I hoped they would prove groundless.

From Pike, I went to Centerville, and attended a meeting, which was truly solemn. Some were awakened and desired to be re- membered at the throne of grace. Sunday, June 17, I preached to four large congregations in Rushford and Centerville. The power of Emmanuel was present in each meeting, and sinners wept as they viewed themselves in the gospel glass. The next day I spoke the word to a solemn audience in Pike ; and early in the following day, at Six Acre lake. In the afternoon I was liighly favored of the Lord, wliile pointing precious souls to the Friend of sinners, at the east part of the town.

Wednesday, I preached in China ; the day after, walked thir- teen miles in the rain, and attended three meetings. My shoes were worn off from my feet; and on reaching the last appomt- ment in Boston, Erie Co. I was much wearied; my feet were blistered, and so painful, that I was obliged to sit with them on a pillow, while speaking to the people. But amidst my privations and sufferings for the cause of Christ, my heart felt that more than double was rendered, by seeing one sinner this evening persuaded to turn and live.

On Friday, I went to a camp meeting in Boston, and being re- quested, preached in the evening, and tarried the next day. On the Sabbath, feeling constrained by the love of Christ and a sense of duty, though my feet were still bare, I addressed the people fi'om the stand, and enjoyed good freedom. At the close of my discourse, a man who was not a professor, left nearly two dollars in my hand, and told me to purchase a pair of shoes; but before an opportunity presented, a pair was given me.

On Monday, I preached in Buffham settlement, and in Aurora. In the latter place, a heavenly season was enjoyed ; fifteen awaken- ed souls promised to seek the Lord, and two of them were soon brought to rejoice. The day following, I held a meeting in Wales ;, 4*

42 MEMOIRS OF

the next day, travelled sixteen miles, and preached twice. In the latter meeting, two requested prayers. Thursday, after riding twenty miles, I preached once ; and the day following, attended a meeting in Pike, but saw none persuaded to turn to God.

Sunday morning, July 1, 1821, I went to Centerville. Num- bers had assembled, and I felt great confiderlfee in declaring the counsel of Heaven. This assembly was said to be the largest that had ever been in the town. In the after part of the day, about four hundred met in Rushford, many having come between ten and fifteen miles. The Lord enabled me to come to the people in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Many were smitten by the sword of the Spirit ; a revival soon commenced, and,- as I afterward learned,, fifty or sixty professed to find Him, of whom Moses in the law and the prophets did write. In the evening, I preached again at Centerville. The next day I travelled fifteen miles and held two meetings; and the day following preached twice in Pike.

On the 4th of July, Elder Kendall, a Calvinistic Baptist, preach- ed at Centerville, and at the conclusion of his discourse, I address- ed the audience. Elder Kendall made me a considerable present of wearing apparel; and offered to give $100. toward a collegiate education, provided I would go to Massachusetts and receive tuition from one of his relatives. He also gave encouragement, that the whole expense of a support at college should be defrayed. As this- would prevent me from travelling to declare the glad tidings of sal- vation, and thinking my life would be short, I could not accept his^ kind offer.

Thursday, July 5, I went to a camp meeting in Warsaw, where the preachers treated me with coldness. After a stay of one day, havmg prayed twice on the camp ground, one of the ministers re- proved me for taking up too much of the time. Feeling desirous to address the people from the stand, I requested the privilege, but was denied. During an intermission on Saturday, while convers- ing with some individuals, and endeavoring to persuade them to be reconciled to God, large numbers crowded to hear, till I had not room to turn. Being solicited by some of the brethren, I climbed upon a fire stand,* and commenced delivering my message. Near- ly the whole assembly gathering around, listened attentively, and many with tears. Soon one of the preachers requested me to be as brief in my remarks as possible, and free my mind. Feeling my duty was then discharged, I ceased speaking, and the next day left the meeting. Having now a chain of appointments west of

* Fire stands are about six feet high, and constructed by placincr several stakes in the ground, and covering the tops of them first with boards, and then with earth, for the pur- pose of building fires on them, to give light in the night at camp meetings.

DAVID MARKS. 43

Warsaw, I proceeded thirty-six miles ; and on Monday preached in Sheldon and Wales. In the latter place, it was a time of Em- manuel's poAver ; five penitents kneeled, while we called on Him v/ho is able and mighty to save. One of the number soon found Jesus. On the day after I preached at Aurora, and one who had been awakened in one of my former meetings, was brought into the liberty of the sons of God. In the after part of the day, I spoke to a congregation in Boston ; one sinner was slain, and soon after raised by the great Physician. The day following I preached in Hamburg to a numerous concourse, who appeared to hear for the judgment day.

July 11, I observed with solemn prayer, it being the second an- niversary of my baptism. The day was pleasant. In the fore- noon, I attended a meeting in Eden, where the solemnities of the eternal world were unveiled, and the arrows of the King sharp in the hearts of his enemies. Eleven thus wounded, bowed before the Lord ; and while we implored his mercy, their cries and groans resounded through the barn in which we were assembled. After the meeting closed, as the people seemed very unwilling to leave the place, I conversed with several who promised to seek God. Addressing a young woman, who belonged to the Quakers, I asked her if she desired the religion of tjie blessed Jesus. She made no reply, but immediately started for home. Conviction followed her, and her distress of mind became so great, that she .returned in tears ; and meeting me in company with several anxious souls, as we were passing from the barn to the house, she begged forgive- ness for leaving me so abruptly, and said, she not only desired the knowledge of God, but wished me to entreat his mercy for her. After entering the house, we again called on the Lord. From this good hour, a revival followed, in which several Quakers professed to be born again.

After attending two other mee'tings, I went to Buffalo, and preached to a numerous congregation in the Methodist chapel. Sunday, July 15, I had an appointment in a grove at Hamburg. Many, attracted by curiosity, came out to hear " the hoy ;" and it was said the assembly was larger than any that had ever before^been held in that town. I endeavored to trust in God, but did not see so much of his power manifested as my heart would gladly have witness- ed. In the evening, the Lord met with us again in Eden, and while his glory beamed upon us, Zion's children rejoiced with exceeding great joy, and sinners wept aloud. Ten or fifteen awakened souls fell on their knees and humbly begged for pardon. The next day, I travelled twenty miles and preached twice ; the day following, walked fourteen miles to an appointment in Attica; and on Thursday, returned to Eden, a distance of thirty-five miles. Here

44 MEMOIRS OP

I met a crowded assembly, in which the power of the Highest ren- dered the place both awful and glorious. Many went away mourn- ing for their transgressions, and sighing for salvation. A confer- ence was held in the evening : a large number spoke of the deal- ings of the Lord with them, and several declared they would nev- er rest till they found peace to their souls. The awakened became so distressed, that near the close their cries were heard throughout the assembly. Fifteen united in a circle, and bowed with us, while we called on the Lord. One or two found peace, and went home r^'oicing.

Friday, July 20, while I was preaching in Boston, the Spirit of the Lord God descended upon us, and the cries of the wounded were heard in every part of the congregation. Fourteen manifest- ed their desires for salvation, and their resolutions to seek mercy ; and two or three were hopefully converted.

On Saturday, an attack of the chicken pox brought on me the pains of raging disorder. But having appointments, I walked ten miles, to Aurora, in much distress of body, frequently lying down by the way. The next day, being the Sabbath, Elder H., a Cal- vinistic Baptist, and myself, undesignedly had appointments at the same hour and place. The assembly was large, and on entering, I took a seat as a stranger. Elder H., after stating that he under- stood a boy, who had been preaching in those parts, had an ap- pointment at that place, inquired if any one knew where he was. On receiving an answer, he asked me if I belonged to any church, or had credentials. My letter being presented, he reaxi it to the assembly, and gave me liberty to preach. I loved to preach Jesus, and improving the opportunity, enjoyed a precious season. In the after part of the day, I walked nine miles, and preached twice, but passed a restless night ; my illness having considerably increased.

On Monday morning, the rain was falling, and my strength al- most spent ; yet an appointment, eleven miles distant, called me, and sinners lay near my heart. After walking in much distress four miles, my strength failed ; but borrowing a horse, I reached my appointment at Vermont hill, both wet and cold. The house was filled, and the people were attentive. Their trickling tears be- spoke that they felt the melting influence of God's Holy Spirit. After the meeting closed, I began conversing with individuals, and asked them if they desired an interest in Christ. Some answered, ' they did not at present ;' others that they ' could live without it a little longer:' — some said they 'thought religion a good thing;' and others, they ' would like it well enough.' I asked different questions, relative to the state of their minds ; but notwithstanding their tears and trembling, they answered evasively, — and no one owning a desire for salvation, I went to Elder Folsom's, sorrowing

DAVID MARKS. 45

and astonished at the obstinacy of sinful man. But as soon as the evening came, six or seven, with whom I had conversed, came to the house and desired me to pray for them. Next morning, I was informed that two or three of this number had been in such distress of mind, while they saw the sinfulness of their lives, that they neith- er closed their eyes to sleep, nor lay down during the night. At dawn of day, they returned to my lodging, and others continued to come, till an hour after sunrising, when the number was increased to fifteen. I prayed and conversed with them — then bidding them adieu, went to my -appointment in Boston. Here the heavens seemed to be opened, and the glory of God to fill the house. Pro- fessors were revived, wanderers reclaimed, and our meeting was crowned with the praises of two or three new-born souls. The four days following I labored in Eden and Boston,

During four weeks that had now passed, the power of God was frequently manifested in our meetings in these towns. While the saints were made to sing and shout for joy, the cries of awakened sinners, begging for mercy, often saluted our ears. Eighteen had professed to find pardon through the blood of the Lamb. Among this number, was one in advanced life, who for eight years had at- tended but one or two religious meetings. His curiosity being ex- cited by the report, that ' a boy of the age of fifteen, was preach- ing among the people,' he came out to hear, looking with a scrutin- izing eye at the youth, when, as he afterwards stated, the following inquiries were suggested to his mind : ' If that lad is engaged in the cause of religion, and so earnestly desires the welfare of men, as to leave his father's house at this tender age, and go among strangers, far away from home, to persuade men to be reconciled to God ; what should I, an old man, be about ? I am living in sin in the very evening of life^ while he is serving God in childhood.' Con- viction reached his heart, and never left liim, till he was hopefully converted.

July 29, after taking leave of the brethren in Boston and Eden, .1 preached in Concord and China, and next day visited Center- ville, little realizing the deep sorrows that awaited me. Being told a letter in the Post Office waited my arrival, the recollection of my impression six weeks before at brother Johnson's, in Pike, caused me to tremble, and remark that I believed my mother was no more.

With an agitated step, I hastened to the office. The letter was presented, and a hlach seal confirmed my fears. I paused to pre- pare for heavy tidings ; then opened the letter, and saw the name subscribed was my father's. After naming the reception of my last letter, he wrote thus : " You write, " Dear father and mother ;" but, O my son, it has become my painful duty to inform you, that

46 MEMOIRS OF

your mother is no more with us. A sudden attack of the quick consumption confined her on the 16th of May, 1821, and she de- parted this hfe on the 29 th of tlie same month." That which I had feared, now came upon me. I could read no further — the ten- der ties were rent asunder. I retired, that my heart might bleed its anguish. When the first impulse of grief had a little subsided, I read my letter, and with subsequent information, gathered the following particulars.

My parents, after the burning of their dwelling, prepared a neighboring cottage for their abode, into which they* gathered a few things, till a house my father had purchased, should be remov- ed to the place they had selected. Shortly after, my mother, hav- ing no candles, seated herself in the door of the cottage one even- ing, to repair garments for the family by moon-light. The next morning she found she had taken cold, and said to my father, " I am ill, and I shall die. Our cottage is uncomfortable, and I will go to one of the neighbor's and there end my days." But he, sup- posing their late affliction had cast a gloom over her mind, and that ill health had discouraged her, hoped she would soon recover, and be restored to her usual cheerfulness. She went to the house of Mr. W., apparently without serious symptoms of a course of sick- ness ; and said, " I am not well, and have come to your house to be sick and die." Mr. W., surprised at the remark, kindly re- plied, " You are welcome to my house ; but I trust you mistake in expecting death." The same day she took her bed, and seem- ingly closed her eyes upon the world. Though not yet attacked vi- olently, she said she should no more arise. My father proposed to call a physician. She replied, " It will do no good ; but if it will afford you any satisfaction I am willing." Mr. M., a skillful phy- sician, attended, and at first did not consider her case alarming ; but soon her destiny appeared to be unalterably fixed.

My brother Friend, while sitting by her, said, " I cannot bear the thought that you should now die and leave us." She calmly replied, " My son, nearly forty-five years have I spent in this world of tribulation. "VVe commenced in comfortable circumstances, with fair prospects of the future ; but once have been stripped of all, — twice our dwelling has been consumed. Life has been a continued series of disappointments, and now I am nearly through all my sor- rows. The Lord is about to take me to himself, — and O, my child, how can you wish me to stay here any longer." My brother, bursting into tears, could say no more, but retired in secret to vent his grief. Rosanna, an only daughter, of the age of seven, and the youngest, a son of five years, having heard her say she should die, went several times each to her bed, weeping and saying, " Mamma, I don't want you should die." Always, before this, when confined

DAVID MARKS. 47

by sickness, or expecting the approach of death, she had expressed much affection for her children, and concern for their welfare ; but now, it seemed that a view of death, and discovery of eternity, had banished anxiety and absorbed natural affection. Though she had always been a tender mother, now the only reply to her innocent babes was, " Go away" Being frequently asked if she did not wish to see David, her repeated answer was, " No." Once, in re- ply to the same question, she said, "You may think it strange that I say no ; but it is because he is engaged in the cause of Christ, which I do not wish liim to leave to visit me. I am going home ; he will soon finish his work and follow me."

On the morning of the 28th of May, her physician, after giving some directions concerning her medicine, said he must leave, but would call again the next day. She replied, " You need not come ; for it will be useless ; if you come to-morrow, you will find me a corpse." At one o'clock, P. M., she became speechless, and the pains of death began. Several times, my father desired her to press his hand, if she felt confident of her acceptance with God. This she continued to do as often as requested, until her strength so failed, that she could only stretch her hand a little. Her distress was very great; but at the hour of four, the next morning, her Savior called— she left her pain and anguish — and exchanged this world of sorrow, this vale of tears, I trust, for a world of glory and immortal bliss.

Another little circumstance touched my heart. The dollar that I sent back after the house was burned, was used toward purchas- ing her grave apparel. O, how distant was the thought, when I received that dollar from my mother, and returned it, that this would be its application !

48 MEMOIKS OB*

CHAPTER V.

Particulars of my labors, and other occurrences, from July, 1821, to November following.

Elder Kendall kindly gave me the use of a horse to visit our be- ' reaved family. On the morning of August 2, 1821, I proceeded on the journey, which was 130 miles ; and on the evening of the fourth, arrived at my father's dwelHng. But, O how gloomy ! All that met my sight was marked with change. The house I left was gone, and another erected on other ground. The mantle of night had cast its shade around. I knocked at the door, but all was silent as the house of death. Receiving no answer, I entered, and found my younger brother sleeping by the fire. Upon awaking him, he burst into tears, and exclaimed, " O, David ! is this you ? mamma is dead !" After informing me that my father and eldest brother had gone a few miles from home, he conducted me to the chamber, where the two youngest children were in bed. Awaking from sleep, Rosanna threw her arms around my neck, and with much grief cried, " Mamma is dead." Jeremiah also told me the same, as though the tidings were new. This was a heart-touching scene. Soon my father and brother returned ; but O, how empty and solitary the house appeared ! Death seemed engraven on the walls, and on all things around. Together we bowed before the Lord, when a remembrance of the solemn scene on the morning of our separation, caused my heart a bitter pang. Our number was less than at that time, — that voice, which then so fervently implor- ed the mercies of Heaven at the family altar, we heard not. Alas ! it was silent and mute in death. Memory, faithful to its office, brought to mind the excellent counsel and emphatical warnings my dear mother had given me, accompanied by the painful assurance that they could never again be repeated. The next morning was the Sabbath. I arose early, and viewed in solemn silence the sur- rounding scenery. The ruins of the old house brought the recol- lection of departed years ; but another spot met my eye. It was where I last beheld the form of my departed mother. O, how dreary and. desolate all creation appeared ! With bitterness I said, " All below is vanity."

We repaired to the house of worship. The empty seat in the carriage, and the vacant place in the house of God, told us, in si- lent language, that death had bereaved us ; and pointed to the dark confines of the tomb. After the morning service, in company with my father and family, I walked to the " congregation of the deadj" there I gazed on the mound, beneath which rested the

DAVID MARKS. 49

body of my mother, and watered it with my tears. But my heart was not without consolation ; I rejoiced in the midst of sorrow ; for I thought, " Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord." Here she rests in peace. No more the toils of life, the afflictions and woes of this land of pain and death, assail her. She rests in the bosom of that Savior, who on earth was so dear to her, and whose cause was so precious to her heart. Though I deeply felt and mourned my loss, yet, while I knew it was her eternal gain, for her I could rejoice. In a little time I shall finish my work and follow her. After wandering a little longer in the earth, warning sinners and weeping over them, I shall rest from my labors, and rejoin her to sing praises to God and the Lamb for ever. Bidding adieu to her peaceful grave, I endeavored in the afternoon, with feelings of great solemnity, to point sinners to the Savior.

After a stay of four days in Junius, duty called for my depart- ure. Bidding my father and brothers farewell, on the 9th of Au- gust, they went to their labor, and my little sister sat alone in the house. Just as I was ready to leave, she burst into tears and said, *' O David, don't leave me. It is very lonesome here since mamma died." It seemed as though my heart would break. I tried to console her, and quiet her gi-ief, telling her, it was for poor sinners that I left her; they were going down to death, and the Lord had made it my duty to warn them. This was a trying hour; — ^but, committing her to the care of Heaven, I proceeded to Wayne, where the Benton Quarterly Meeting was to be held, on the 11th and 12th of the month. The meeting was highly favored from the presence of the Lord. Four were hopefully converted — wander- ers confessed their backslidings — and several went to their homes inquiring the way to Zion.

Monday, after riding forty miles to Bristol, to attend an appoint- ment previously left with a landlady for circulation, I found she had not given it notice. She said she believed me an impostor, and had not expected my return. But, notwithstanding I had re- turned according to agreement, she was then unwilling I should preach in her house. Being destitute of money, much fatigued, and faint with hunger, having ate nothing during the day's jour- ney, I requested some food, but it was refused ! then asking some- thing for my horse, this also was refused. So leaving her, I rode about two miles, made application for a lodging, which was grant- ed, and my necessities kindly relieved. The next day I rode thir- ty miles to an appointment in Perry ; and the day following to Centerville, returned the horse I had borrowed, and in the evening attended a meeting. Thursday and Friday I walked 36 miles to Bethany, and preached once by the way. 5

50 MEMOIRS OP

On Friday, Aug. 17, 1821, 1 had the satisfaction of being pres- ent at the organization of the Holland Purchase Yearly Meeting. Three Quarterly Meetings, viz : Bethany, Erie, and Benton, unit- ed by delegation ; and the following particulars concerning their rise and numbers at that period, were presented:

Bethany Quarterly Meeting was the first of the Freewill Bap- tist denomination, organized in the state of New York. It was gathered in 1813, through the instrumentality of Elder Nathaniel Brown, a faithful minister of Christ, who left his brethren in Straf- ford, Vermont, about the year 1810. At this time, it consisted of tliirteen churches, which numbered five hundred and forty-eight members, nine elders, and six unordained preachers.

Erie Quarterly Meeting was organized from the Bethany Quar- terly Meeting, about the year 1818. It now had eight churches — which consisted of three elders, four unordained preachers, and one hundred and ninety-eight members.

Benton Quarterly Meeting was gathered by Elder Zebulon Dean, about the year 1818. At this time it consisted of six church- es, containing one hundred and twenty-two members, five elders, and three unordained preachers.

Total number in the Yearly Meeting, seventeen elders, thirteen unordained preachers, and eight hundred and sixty-eight members.

On Saturday, a good season was enjoyed. On the Sabbath, a numerous assembly was present. Five sermons were delivered, which were very instructive and refreshing. On an evening of this meeting, I attended worship where several preachers were present, and gave an exhortation; but being a stranger, the peo- ple, as they dispersed, left me alone in the school-house, which some one locked. My Master declared at one time, that he " had not where to lay his head ;" when I thought of my comfortable shelter, my mind was composed, and placing two or three benches together, I laid myself on them and fell into a sweet slumber. In the mean- time, a person who was not a professor, after he had gone a mile toward home, knowing I was locked in the house, felt uneasy, and obtaining the key, returned and awoke me, and would have me go to his house.

From Bethany, I went to Wales and Boston, and preached in each town ; then returning home, attended two meetings by the way. I spent about three weeks in Junius, held fifteen meetings, and met with considerable opposition. My trials were great ; but the words of Christ, Matt. 13:57, " A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country," encouraged me to walk in the path of obedience, — ^believing that if God had called me to preach his word, he would uphold me in the day of trouble ; and that amid all the changes of life, his grace would be sufficient for those who put

DAVID MARKS. 51

their trust in him. One man gave notice that he would provide a handful of whips at my next meeting, and would give a gallon of whiskey to any one that would wear them out on me. Sickness immediately confined him, so that at my next meeting, he was un- able to attend. One of his children was taken ill about the same time, and died in a few days. How great is the care God has of his children ! — Not a hair shall fall to the ground without his no- tice. I understood that, at another time, some of the planks were removed from a bridge, over which I was expected to pass in the evening. The " Guide of my youth" turned my feet another way, and thus preserved me from the snare of my enemies. A member of the church told me, my foes were intending to lie in wait when I went away, and take my life. O that God may not lay these sins to their charge ; but in mercy may He give them to see the folly of their ways.

About this time, I felt considerable desire to acquire a knowl- edge of English Grammar ; but as my views of duty would not per- mit me to leave the work to which God had appointed me, to at- tend a school, I reasoned with myself thus : If men have had suffi- cient genius to form and arrange the rules of language, and the ex- perience and learning of ages have presented them in a style, plain and familiar, cannot a knowledge of this science be obtained with- out going to school ? The continued di'opping of water will wear even a stone ; by resolution and perseverance, any thing within the sphere of man may be accomplished. As a knowledge of gram- mar might greatly extend my usefulness, I concluded that, if life continue, I can and will obtain this knowledge. Yet I had no book, neither money to purchase one. But, as one day's labor on the Erie canal, that was near, would furnish me with the money, I went to a marsh west of Montezuma, and engaged in pumping water. Soon one of the laborers accosted me thus : " "What ! you at work on the canal ? I thought you spent your whole time in preach- ing." Telling him the occasion of my being thus engaged, he seemed touched, and gave me a shilling ; then called on his com- rades to show a like favor. They soon gave me money enough for my desired object, and dismissed me, requesting that I should preach to the workmen the ensuing evening. Accordingly I com- plied, and enjoyed the presence of God. I understood that some of the wicked laborers had designed to whip me, and that others, learning this, had determined to defend me by force. This, how- ever, they had no occasion to do, for the Lord protected me, and I was permitted to return to Junius in peace.

Having now obtained a book, I commenced the study of gram- mar ; and occasionally received some instruction from friends that I met with in my subsequent travels. I studied while travelling on

52 MEMOIRS OF

the road, for hundreds of miles, and at length measurably succeed- ed in my desired object.

During my stay in Junius, I was called to witness a solemn scene. A neighbor, who resided near, had stated that, soon after the burial of my mother, a noise was heard in the burying ground like the opening of a grave. The mound also over her had sunk much below the surface of the surrounding earth. From these cir- cumstances, we feared that her body had been taken away, and concluded to open her grave. Our family and a few others were present on the occasion. After prayer, our friends proceeded to open the silent mansion — ^and with a trembling heart, I waited the solemn sight. If the coffin should be empty, tliis must give us un- pleasant feehngs ; and if, on the other hand, the remains of the ten- der parent should be found, I knew this would be a sight from which my feelings must shrink with horror. The lid was raised, and a human form appeared. At first I could hardly beheve it was that of my mother. But reflection convinced me that these were the remains of that tender mother, whom I left in health only the spring before. But O, the change ! The coffin was half full of dark water, that appeared once to have entirely covered the body. The face had the color of dark earth ; the flesh had fallen away from the cheeks, leavmg the teeth bare ; and her eyes had sunk deep in their sockets. Her arms had sunk in the body, till they were nearly level with its surface. While gazing on these remains, I exclaimed within myself, O my God ! is this my moth- er ! Are those the arms that embraced me in infancy ! — those the eyes that wept over me ! — ^is that the bosom to which, in childhood, I was tenderly pressed ! As an unpleasant affluvia compelled me to turn away, I said of the dust, ' Thou art my mother.' And the thought rushed upon me with great solemnity, ' this is a looking- glass for me. Thus it will soon be with me, and with all the hv- ing. But her spirit is not here ; it has fled beyond the limits of mortahty.' The coffin being again closed, and the grave filled up, we retired from the instructive scene, while solemn reflections of the resurrection gave me great consolation.

September 19, my father kindly purchased me a horse, and al- lowed me six months to make the payment. The next morning, I left home for Manlius, and rode twenty miles without a saddle, then left my horse in Elbridge, and the day following walked twen- six miles and held one meeting, in which sinners wept and samts rejoiced. One mourning soul cried to God, and soon after found peace in Jesus.

Sunday, 23. A large number assembled at the place of my ap- pointment. The Lord gave me boldness to speak in his name, and his Spirit attended the word. Many who came, expecting the

DAVID MARKS. 53

" ^oy," like Sampson, would only make sport for them, wept pro- fusely. In the afternoon, I preached at Manlius four coraers, to several hundred. The Master of assemblies presided and Zion re- joiced. Sinners were pricked in the heart ; — ^and inviting those who were desirous of salvation, to manifest it by rising, my heart leaped with joy, to behold thirty rise in the assembly. Several of them wept bitterly, and eight or nine never rested till Jesus ap- peared to them the chiefest among ten thousand, and the one alto- gether lovely. Three dollars were given me in this place, for which I thanked God. Monday, I walked twenty-eight miles, and preached in Gettysburg and Elbridge.

After this, I went to Lysander, Oswego, and Scriba. I attend- ed meetings in each place ; in the latter some appeared sensible of their danger, and promised to seek the Lord. Sunday, September 30, 1 rode ten miles, and preached at the Oswego falls, from the word ' Fire / and, indeed, felt the word shut up like fire in my bones. The next day I spoke to an attentive audience in Camil- lus, and the day following returned to Junius.

My father's dwelling was more lonely than ever, my sister and youngest brother having been committed to the care of strangers, thirty miles from home. With me, Junius had lost much of its power to delight. The ties which had made it dear to my heart, were nearly all rent asunder. The places where I had formerly enjoyed the society of my relatives, were now empty, and called up bitter recollections.

After a short stay in Junius, and holding a few meetings, I again visited the Holland Purchase, and enjoyed some favored seasons,- while pointing sinners to the Savior. During my visit, I attended the Erie Quarterly Meeting in the town of Holland, on the third and fourth of November, 1821. The sermons were interesting, and some good degree of the Spirit was present.

After visiting and preaching in Boston, I returned to Junius,, and arrived at my father's on the 13th of November. 5*

M MEMOIRS OF

CHAPTER VL

My Journey to New Hampshire,

From a constant perusal of the Religious Informer, a periodi- cal published by one of our preachers in New Hampshire, I be- came much attached to many in New England. An anxiety for months had been increasing in my mind to see these brethren, many of whom had been long in the holy war, and had borne the burden and heat of the day. I wished to become acquainted with their spirit and manners, and learn instruction from them. Believ- ing such an opportunity would be useful to me, and having made it a subject of prayer, I now thought duty called me to visit the brethren in that section.

Accordingly, after a stay of an hour and a half at my father's, on Tuesday, the 13th of November, I commenced the journey. My temporal prospects were discouraging. I had a young horse, no saddle, great coat, or money ; and was going among strangers, a distance of more than four hundred miles. But being bound in spirit to go thither, I beheved the Lord would provide for me. At evening, I attended a meeting on the island west of Montezuma. The next day I crossed the toll bridge at Montezuma, promising to pay the tax on my return. At Brutus, I held a meeting, and there met Moses Manrow, who desu-ed to accompany me to New Hamp- shire. He also was destitute of money.

Thursday, we attended my appointment in Elbridge. The next morning we came to a turnpike gate in Camillus, and after telling the gate keeper my situation and business, I requested a free pas- sage. Being denied, I offered my hat, coat, or shoes, for security. He replied, he wanted the money ; but after detaining me half an hour, let me pass, with a charge never to come to that gate again with a horse and no money. Proceeding ten miles, I preached a little east of Nine Mile Point, at 9 o'clock, A. M. The assembly heard attentively, and seemed not entirely indifferent to " life's on- ly great concern." At 3 o'clock, P. M., I spoke to a congregation in Gettysburg, and in the evening to one in Syracuse.

Sunday, November 18, I spoke to two assemblies in Manlius, in which the benign influence of the Holy Spirit was felt. On the next day, at a meeting in OrviUe, some appeared to feel the need of sal- vation. In the evening, I preached at Manlius Square, to a very attentive audience, and the day following, to an assembly in Pom- pey, where a few shillings were given to enable me to pass the gates. The ensuing evening we met a congregation in the south part of the town ; and on the day after proceeded fifteen miles, and

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spent the evening in a Methodist prayer meeting. The next morn- ing at 7 o'clock, I preached in Christian Hollow. Here I met with unexpected embarrassment ; for, by some means, I had lost the record of my appointments in a strange land. The most I knew of them was, they were in a southern direction. After proceeding twenty miles, I found that I had missed two ; and then obtained in- formation of four others.

Friday, we came to a grave yard, where the congregation was attending to the burial of a young woman, who only the Tuesday previous was in the bloom of health. She remarked, while stand- ing before the glass,^ dressing her hair, she intended to go to school the whole winter. In a few minutes she felt the attacks of disor- der, and in thirty-six hours bid the world adieu. During this short illness, she bitterly lamented the misimprovement of her time. Two weeks previous she attended a gay party, and joined in the dance ; but now, when death was summoning her to appear before her Judge, with grief she said, " O, that I had spent that time praying to God !" She then called her parents to pray for her. This they had often done, and also counselled her to prepare for the solemn change ; but her ears had been deaf to all their entreaties, — for she thought that as she was in the morning of life, she had time enough yet to attend to religion. Now she regretted her refusal of the friendly counsel, and said, " O that all young people were pre- sent, that I might warn them not to do as I have done ! O, tell them from me, when I am dead, not to live in sin as I have." Just before her eyes closed in death she exclaimed, " I am going to re- ceive my everlasting fate !" lam going to dwell with devils!" After her burial the people retired to a house — and as their ex- pected preacher had not arrived, being requested, I addressed them a few minutes, concerning the mortality of man, and the necessity of being prepared for the awful change of death. After praying with them, we proceeded to my appointment in Truxton. The next day I preached thrice ; a friend gave me a great coat, which, though considerably worn, was gladly received.

Sunday, Nov. 25, I attended worship in Truxton, where two or three were awakened, and kneeled for prayer. A revival follow- ed, in which several were added to the Lord. Leaving Truxton, I preached in De Ruyter village, and the next day proceeded twen- ty miles to Murray and Lebanon, and there held four meetings. Going next to Plainfield, I enjoyed the privilege of speaking to a congregation, composed chiefly of young converts. The children of God had been gladdened by a glorious revival in the towns of Plainfield and Winfield, in which many had leai'ned the song of Zion. Saturday I enjoyed a refreshing season with the " Seventh day" Christians. Here an invitation was given me to preach in

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Brookfiekl. As it was eight miles from my intended course, I at first declined ; but being much imjiortuned, I finally sent an ap- pointment for the next Tuesday. Sabbath, Dec. 2, I preached in the Free Communion Baptist meeting house ; in the evening, on the Cherry Valley turnpike, and the next day at a school house.

Tuesday, I addressed a considerable number of people in Brook- field, from Gen. 3:19, " Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou re- turn." Many, touched by the power of God, wept, and five sin-sick souls bowed at mercy's altar. Feeling an impression of duty, I made a second appointment at the York school house. Several hundred attended : the Lord led my soul out into the deep waters, and by his Spirit, fastened conviction in many hearts. A good pros- pect of revival in Brookfield now appeared, and I was in doubt whether it were duty to stay or to proceed on my journey. But, remembering a promise I made, after leaving the revival in Boston and Eden, which stopped soon after, that if the Lord would make me instrumental of one more revival, I w^ould not leave it till sen- sible it was his will, I concluded to tarry a little season ; and I re- quested my heavenly Father, if it was my duty to stay, and if my eyes should there see his salvation, that, for a witness of it, he would convert two souls before the close of that week. Dec. 9, one was converted, and testified what God had done for his soul ; and be- fore the week closed, another was brought into the fold of Jesus. This desired witness satisfying me as to duty, I continued my la- bors. On Dec. 12, one more was converted, and the number of the anxious increased.

But now the enemy of all righteousness, seeing his kingdom in- vaded, and his servants deserting his standai'd, rallied his forces. Li their opposition they used for weapons, ignorance, prejudice, bigotry, superstition, and falsehood. Scandalous reports were circulated, both concerning myself and the subjects of the revival. But the Captain of our salvation fought for his people, and suffer- ed not his work to be hindered. In our meeting on the 19th of the month, several ridiculed religion, yet the season was solemn to many, and some cried for mercy. One young man, who was thoughtless and disorderly in the early part of the meeting, was cut to the heart, while witnessing the tears of Christians, whose pray- ers were raised to God in his behalf. When conviction, which he then called " a singular feeling," sunk into his heart, immediately he left the house for home — returned — set out again — returned again — and coming to me, desired my prayers for his poor soul. I bowed with him and supplicated Heaven's mercy. He appeared to be a very humble penitent, cried fervently to God for pardon, and soon after was happy in the Savior's love.

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On the evening of Dec. 23, we enjoyed a heavenly season in the courts of our God. I delivered a discourse to several hundreds, and afterward a large number spoke of the goodness of God : oth- ers anxiously desired salvation, and prayed for a pardon of their gins. Before the close of the meeting, which was at two in the morning, seven, who thus wept and mourned, were brought to re- joice and give glory to God.

January 1, 1822. About fifteen had professed faith in Christ. I had now been travelling one year to preach the gospel. A min- gled cup of joy and sorrow had been my portion. My greatest sor- row had been, to see poor sinners slight the Savior, and by their mad rejection, prepare themselves for eternal wo and wretched- ness. I had enjoyed peace of mind, in warning and weeping over them ; and feeling encouraged by the success God had given my labors, I determined to spend my life on the walls of Zion.

The work of God continuing, I generally held from seven to ten meetings in a week. At the York school house, there were usually from three to five, and sometimes seven hundred people. Once, after preaching a full atonement and free salvation, I was opposed by a Calvinistic preacher. But we afterward enjoyed heavenly re- freshing, and the converts, in a very affecting manner, frequently spoke of the goodness of the Lord. In an evening meeting, sixty spoke of the goodness of God after semion, and declared that they were resolved, through grace, to persevere in obedience to the com- mands of the dear Redeemer. Many of their testimonies were in the Spirit, and in quick succession. But in the latter part of Jan- uary, this happy state of things seemed a little changed. Certain professed ministers of the Prince of peace came into the vicinity of the revival, and preached their doctrines. A party spirit followed, and hindered the work. From a conviction of duty, I withdrew my appointments from the York school house, and Avent into the north and north-east parts of the town. Here sinners began to cry for mercy, and the revival spread. Jan. 18, at a meeting in Gor- don's settlement, five or six arose and said, that within a week past they had found Jesus.

Jan. 19. Having labored under much trial on account of a tri- fling spirit, which frequently influenced my conversation and de- portment, I resolved to fast and continue in prayer, hoping to ob- tain victory over this sinful propensity. With this resolution I went to Eaton, where Elder J. Shaw, a preacher of the Six Prin- ciple Baptists, had solicited an appointment, hoping the warnings of a youth of sixteen might touch the hearts of his children, for none of them had yet been converted. I held two meetmgs in that towm, and felt much of the solemn power of God. The spirit of truth at- tended the word to the hearts of the people. A few were awaken-

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ed, who covenanted to seek the Lord, and were soon happy in the smiles of the Savior. Their testimonies were blessed to the awakening of others, and this good work continued, till about fifty or sixty were brought into the fold of Christ. Among these, ac- cording to the hope of Elder Shaw, I think, were two or three of his children.* Leaving Eaton the same day, I held a meeting at the Baptist Seminary in Hamilton. On the next evening, I preach- ed in Brookfield, and then, having fasted fifty-five hours, and feel- ing much blessed and strengthened of the Lord, I received food. After this I held several meetings, in which the power of Crod was manifested.

Six weeks had now passed since I first came to Brookfield, — in this time thirty-five or forty professed to be born again. I also preached frequently in other places, particularly in Plainfield, and at times felt much of the presence and Spirit of God. In this town, also, a few were converted, and a number of wanderers returned to the fold of Christ.

At the close of a meeting I spoke to a young w^oman of the im- portance of being prepared to meet God, but she treated the sol- emn subject of wliich I spoke, with a degree of contempt that I nev- er before saw equalled by one of her age and sex. Solemn im- pressions concerning her situation, filled my mind with awful weight ; and I said to her, I greatly fear y if you do not repent, God will take you from time in less than a year. In about eight months from this, as she was spinning at her wheel, near mid-day, appar- ently in health, the hand of distress was laid upon her. She left her wheel — retired to the bed — and in fifteen minutes was a corpse ! Thus was she snatched away without an hour's warning. O, how sudden ! how shocking to her parents and relatives ! To them, as well as to her, what a change of scene is presented — and how quick the transition ! The daughter, whom a few moments before they saw in health, now lies cold in death. The wheel at which she was busied is still in its place, unmoved — and the roll that was in her hand, still hangs from the spindle. Ye gay — ^ye thoughtless ! — from this take warning, and dare not to trifle with your God !

M. Manrow was with me in Brookfield most of the time, and generally took part in the meetings, though sometimes he made separate appointments. His labors seemed to be useful ; but, with pain, I discovered that he was unstable, and trifling in his conver- sation. He received my reproofs kindly, and often with tears.

* An individual who resided in Eaton recently told me, that at the commencement of the first meeting the " boy preacher'''' held in Eaton, he arose and said to the people, there were three words he wished them to remember. These were '■'■deaths judgment and eternity.'''' Such was the solemnity of his manner, that the effect on the assembly was like an electric shock. Many were in tears, and afterwards several of the converts dated their awakening from this circumstance. [Editress.]

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Viewing his soul and his gifts precious, I felt to treat him tenderly^ hoping he would overcome the follies of his youth. But as he was more ready to hear reproof than to reform, I sometimes regretted that he had obtained my consent to travel with me.

An old sleigh and two or three dollars were given us in Brook- field. In the latter part of January, taking leave of the converts, we proceeded to Hardwick : there we held several meetings in the Christian meeting house, and one in the Universalist. In the lat- ter was a large and attentive assembly; some were very solemn, others opposed, and afterwards, as I was informed, threatened to beat me. After holding several other meetings in Hardwick, and enjoying good seasons, we attended a meeting in Canajoharrie. Eight came forward for prayer. One promised to kneel and pray thrice a day for five weeks, who, together with several others, was soon converted. Here I discovered my horse was sick ; but not having money to get him kept in the place, we proceeded slowly twelve miles to Charlestown, and held one meeting. Then, leav- ing my horse in the care of a good man, we pursued our journey on foot.

February 1, we walked to Rotterdam, and the next day attend- ed meeting with the Methodists in Schenectady. We went home with the preacher, and I desired to leave an appointment at his chapel, to attend on my return. After examining my credentials, and consulting some of his society, he told me they had concluded, as I was a boy, and could not injure the house, to grant me the privilege. Proceeding eastward, we crossed the Hudson, passed through Troy, and arrived at Brunswick in the early part of the evening. Being requested to hold a meeting, immediate notice was given, and about thirty collected, to whom I spoke with free- dom.

In the morning we pursued our way, but my mind was in great trial, from the singular and irreligious deportment of the youth who accompanied me. His levity seemed daily to increase, and I now despaired of any reform, for reproof was in vain. I wept, not only for his soul, but for my own misfortune, in having fallen into com- pany that was worse than useless. After consideration, I told him my grievances, and my wish to separate. This he refused, saying, " I can travel as fast, or as slow as you can, and I will go with you to Andover, N. H. It will be useless for you to contend with me, as this will only close the hearts of strangers." I attempted to sep- arate from him, but he prevailed. So, being a stranger, and with- out friends, I had to submit to his will, painful as it was, and pa- tiently bear with him, till the way should open for my deliverance. We tarried the ensuing night in Bennington, Vt. — the next day,

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crossing the green mountains, we waded through a deep snow to Wilmington.

In the morning, after paying our last money for the night's lodg- ing and a few crackers, we went to Brattleboro', where was a toll bridge across the Connecticut river. After telling the toll receiv- er our situation, I requested a free passage. He inquired if we had money, and received answer that we had not. He then asked me of my business. I replied, I am trying to preach the gospel. " What ! you preach ?" said he. " Who sent you ?" " The Lord, I trust." " What !" he rejoined, " the Lord send you without money ! I think then He is a poor paymaster." I answered, " He sent his apostles without purse or scrip ; and in like manner I think He has sent me." He then inquired, " Have you any friends in the place from which you came ?" " I believe I have," was my reply. He then remarked, "I doubt whether you have any friends ; if you had, they would have provided money for your ex- penses ; I guess you are an impostor." On my offering to show him my letters of commendation, he said, " I don't wish to see them ; pay your toll and be off*." Again I told him, as I had no money, I could not. In a manner too abrupt to name, he bid me say no more, but go back whence I came ; then he fastened the gate, went into his house and shut the door. I turned away, and leaned over the railing of the bridge. The recollection of days when I was blessed with parental care, when I enjoyed the society of friends and brethren dear to my heart, and reflections on my present situation, now crowded into my mind ; the contrast over- powered my feelings, and my tears mingled with the stream. While thus venting my grief, several passed the gate. At length I fell on my knees, and besought the Lord to open my way, pro- vided he had sent me ; and if he had not, I desired it might contin- ue to be hedged up. When I arose, two men stood behind me, and one of them asked, " What is the matter ?" I replied, " I wish to pass the gate, but have no money." He then paid our toll, which I think was not more than four cents ; and much to my sur- prise, began to swear, and curse the gate keeper for detaining trav- ellers because they had no money. This has reminded me of the ravens that were sent to feed Elijah, when the Lord's professed people did not; and also of the Scripture, Prov. 21:18, which saith, " The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the trans- gressor for the upright."

We had now entered New Hampshire, and were both weary and hungry. On coming to a large house, where all things around indicated that the inhabitant was wealthy, I thought to go in and beg a little food; but this Scripture occurring to mind, "How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God,"

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we passed on, and went into a little cottage, whose appearance be- spoke poverty. The people fed us, and I felt to thank God. Pro- ceeding a few miles into Chesterfield, I began, as the sun was set- ' ting, to seek a lodging ; but at every house, for some miles, I sought in vain. For as soon as they learned the object of my journey, the repeated answer was, " No." Had a poor drunkard asked their charity, doubtless they would have given him as much as a crust of bread, and a lodging by their fire-side ; but as I was a poor preacher, of a dissenting order ^ to me they would grant no favors. Some attempted to justify their conduct by this Scripture, " Re- ceive them not into your housed'

After requesting entertainment at a certain house, being asked of my business, I answered, " I believe the Lord has called me to labor in his vineyard ; and in obedience to this requirement, I am endeavoring to preach the gospel." Then they said that no one should preach without a collegiate education ; and that such charac- ters as I was they considered the false prophets, that should come in the latter days — ^and on such they should bestow no favors. It was now about 9 o'clock in the evening ; and having found no shel- ter, the possibility of perishing in the street by cold, was suggest- ed. Without asking leave, I kneeled down, and entreated the Lord that my way might be opened ; or if I must perish, that I might be reconciled, and submit to my fate without a murmuring word, or a repining thought. On bidding them farewell, the wo- man of the house said, " Stop a minute, I wish to talk with you. What made you first entertain an idea that the Lord had called you to preach ?" I answered, " The impression of his Spirit on ■ my mind, and its agreement with the Scriptures." After asking several more questions, she said, " You may stay the night, pro- vided you will be civil, conform to our rules, retire in season, be locked in the room, and at 11 o'clock have a young man come to your apartment and lodge with you." I observed that we wished to leave early in the morning, and inquired at what time they would let us out. She replied, ''At our own time.'* Not choosing to comply with such requisitions, we left them.

We next called on a man who was a deacon. He asked his wife if we could tarry, but she refused her consent. Being busy, he had no leisure to make further inquiries ; but giving us a piece of mon- ney, said, " You can provide lodgings with that." I thanked both him and my Heavenly Father, and obtained lodgings at the next house. We retired to rest without any refreshment, and in the morning our hostess, who was a widow, kindly gave us breakfast. And with a heart glowing with gratitude to Him who hears the young ravens when th^y cry, I went on to Sullivan, and there preached Jesus, The following day we proceeded to Bradford, 6

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tarried with a Freewill Baptist deacon, who treated us courteously. We spent the next night in Wilmot, with a brother who received us affectionately, and my heart was comforted beneath his roof.

Feb. 10, was the Sabbath, and finding a congregation in Ando- ver, assembled to hear Eld. Jesse Thompson, we went in, stran- gers to all present, and took a seat. At the close of his sermon, I made a few remarks. This meeting was very solemn and refresh- ing. In the afternoon. Elder Thompson invited me to address the people. In compliance with the invitation, I opened my mouth, and the Lord gave utterance ; he made his word as sharp arrows in the hearts of his enemies, and almost every face was bedewed with tears. Near the close of the exercises, about one hundred, on being requested, arose to manifest their desires to find Jesus. In the evening I attended a conference meeting, and the next day preached in a ball-room. Several, humbling themselves, bowed with Christians in time of devotion.

About this time, Moses Manrow left me. He now took his own course ; soon became irreligious, and at length a base impostor. . May God save me, and all who read this, from pride, " the snare of the fowler," which effected the downfall of this youth, who but for this, might have been a burning light.

During the four days following, I held two meetings in Wilmot, two in Sutton, in which several kneeled for prayers, one in Spring- field, and on the 16th of the month, went to Enfield, and tarried the night with Elder E. Chase, editor of the Religious Informer.

Sunday, Feb. 17, Elder J. Thompson preached at Enfield, in a ball-room : after sermon, I gave an exhortation ; and in the even- ing enjoyed a solemn season at Canaan, while entreating sinners to be reconciled to God. Next morning, I left without breakfast, having twelve or fourteen miles to walk before ten o'clock. After going nine miles through the deep and drifted snow, my strength was nearly exhausted ; but embracing an opportunity to ride the rest of the way, I reached my appointment. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking from Romans 9:13, " Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated :" and my soul was filled with joy inexpressi- ble. Many wept, and I believe good was done. In the evening, we enjoyed a solemn season in the south part of Wilmot. The four days following, I spent in Andover, and attended six meet- ings, in which were appearances of good ; but not so much pros- pect of a revival as had been expected. Feb. 23, 1 held another meeting in Wilmot ; the day following in Springfield, and my soul was filled with the joys of the heavenly world.

I was now about to return to New York. The people here had received me in the name of the Lord, and shown me great kind- ness. I came to them penniless ; but, through their liberality, I

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had now SIO. My prayer was, that God would reward them ; for I believed, agreeably to the words of Christ, Matt. 10:42, " Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only, in the name of a disciple, shall not lose his re- ward."

Monday, Feb. 25, I commenced my journey ; having a chain of appointments four hundred and fifty miles in length, and some of nine months standing. The day before, considerable snow had fallen, and the wind blew, so that in some places, the road was filled to the tops of the fences ; yet I was enabled to walk twenty- two miles, and attend three appointments. The following day, after travelling fifteen miles to Washington, I found that I could not get to my appointment in season, and hired a man to carry me four miles : still it was eight miles further and the road not broken. Proceeding slowly, I arrived at the meeting about seven in the evening. The house was filled with people, and I commenced speaking; but was soon interrupted by some that came to make disturbance. I entreated them to behave with decency, but they were the more outrageous, and swore violently. Some present threatened them with prosecution if they did not desist ; upon which, one laid aside his coat to fight. After expostulating with them a considerable time, and being convinced that all attempts to persuade them to order would be useless, I left the assembly, and it soon dispersed. This meeting was in Stoddard, N. H., and the only one of my appointments that was ever broken up by the un- godly ; probably this would not have been, had not the disturbers been drunken.

I went to the tavern, and some of the assembly followed, wish- ing me to preach there ; but the gang pursued us, and soon all was confusion. Some who appeared friendly observed, that as I was a stranger and had suffered abuse, they would make a contribution, as a kind of compensation. To this I objected. A few cents were offered me, which I chose not to accept ; being resolved, if the people would not hear my Master's word, to receive none of their substance. O the grief of my heart, while witnessing the rebellion of this people ! My soul mourned, and my eyes ran down with tears. I left the place, and walking five miles further, stopped for the night ; but in the morning, finding that amid the troubles of the preceding evening, a bundle of my clothes had been left at the tavern, I hired a horse, and after returning for them, proceeded again on foot.

The road being muddy, and the remaining snow melting, I was much fatigued. All things appeared gloomy ; and for miles I strewed my path with tears. Then, sitting down by the way side to rest my weary limbs, I thought of home, — of the great and im-

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portant work in which I was engaged ; the powers of unbelief; and the hardness of men's hearts. O, hoAV insufficient to preach the gospel, did I feel! But, while refiectmg that the Lord's strength is made perfect in weakness, in those whom he sends ; that he knows all the sorrows of his children ; that he hath said, " Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world," — a voice whispered, " My grace is suj^cierit far thee" My heart was comforted,

Feb. 28, I preached in Chesterfield, near the manufactory, to an attentive assembly and enjoyed the presence of my Master. In the west part of the town, after rising a hill near Connecticut riv- er, I saw, in a vale before me, a large assembly in front of a house : I recollected kneeling and praying near that place, four weeks pre- vious, and making an appointment for a boy of sixteen to preach at this hour. Some, as they were passing by, heard it, and circulated the notice quite largely. As I approached the crowd, an aged, grave, and neatly dressed gentleman, met me; and inquired if I was the young man who appointed that meeting ; being answered in the affirma- tive, he invited me to follow him. The people giving place, we came to the door of the house, which was already full. He hand- ed me his Bible, and placed a chair upon the door step. Standing in the chair, I spoke from the Scripture, ''Many are called^hut few are chosen.'' Matt. 22:14. I endeavored to show who are called, even all that are afar off by wicked works, according to the invita- tion of Scripture, Isa. 45:22. " Look unto me, arid he ye saved, all the ends of the earth ; for I am God and there is none else'^ Then I attempted to show, that they who are chosen, are chosen " through sanctification of the Spirit," and belief of the truth — that they must believe, before they can become the chosen of the Lord; and that the reason ihsitfew are chosen, is, that few w^ill hear or obey the call. Much solemnity rested on the assembly, and the greater part seemed deeply affected. At the close of the meet- ing, the gentleman before named, returned thanks to the Lord, — for the happy disappointment they had met with — ^that the young man, instead of ridiculing the religion of Jesus, as they had feared he would,* had come with tears, entreating his fellow youth to be reconciled to God — and besought the Lord to impress the sol- emn truth they had heard upon their minds. He then proposed a contribution, and several dollars were given me. I was informed that tliis gentleman was a preacher, and an officer of a literary in-

* From the novelty of the appointment made as above named, for a boy of sixteen to preach, a large concourse of people were expected to assemble. And as the friends of religion feared that either the boy would not attend, or, if he should attend, that his ob- ject might be to ridicule religion, they had solicited this traveller to delay his journey a day, and attend this meeting, for the purpose of promoting order, and of preaching to the people if circumstances should require.

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stitution of distinction in New England, and that he was now go- ing, in company with his wife, to visit his friends in Vermont. On leaving the place, he carried me in his sleigh two miles, invited me to go home with him, and said he would give ten dollars toward my support at school. As I did not incline to his proposal, he then said, he would himself give me six months' support at college, and that a whole course of collegiate study should be provided me free of expense, if I would return with him. But having appoint- ments, and feeling no liberty to leave the work to which God had called me, I expressed my mind, acknowledged his kindness, and told him I could not accept his generous offer. He then remarked, that education was good, and very necessary ; although without it, men called of God, miglit be useful. To these remarks, I assent- ed ; and would gladly have accepted his proposal, could I have done it without the sacrifice of my peace. Science may gain the favor of man — find access to the hearts of many, and may often extend the preacher's usefulness. But the path of duty appeared to lead me in a more humble and self-denying way ; to go to the poor and the ignorant ;• — to tell them, in my simple language, that Je- sus died for sinners, and exhort them to flee from the wrath to come. On parting, he gave me good counsel, and bade me " God speed."

I then crossed the Connecticut and West rivers, and found a large assembly in Dummerston, almost weary of waiting for me. The Lord gave me a message to the people. Here was a church that had left the Calvinistie Baptists, and declared themselves Freewill Baptists ; though they knew no denomination professing their sentiments. When they first separated, their number was small ; but now it had increased to eighty, and several other con- siderable churches had united with them. Elders Mann and AYells had the care of them ; — ^like other dissenters, they had been much persecuted. They received me gladly ; and we found we were of one heart, of one soul, and spoke the same thing. These churches afterward united with the Freewill Baptist denomina- tion.

March 1. In Marlborough, Vermont, I spoke to a few ; of these, some laughed, and some wept. The next day, I crossed the Green Mountains to Bennington ; and the day following went to Hoosac, where I had made an appointment at the Baptist meeting house, provided the church should be willing I should preach in it ; oth- erwise, it was to be in the highway. This day being the Sabbath, the church, after consulting together, concluded, that as I could not harm the house, I might address the people. Putting my trust in the Lord, I spoke on the subject of the resurrection. March 4, at a meeting in Brunswick, the Lord gave me much of his Spmt, and touched the hearts of the hearers. Two dollars were here given me. 6*

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March 5. I had an appointment at the court house in Troy. On my arrival, finding the door closed against me, I gave notice that I would preach on the steps in fifteen ' minutes. But before the time expired, the door was opened, a number assembled, and I spoke to them according to the grace given me. A well dressed gentleman, having a large ivory-headed cane, hung by a ribbon on his wrist, sat just before me, and seemed to hear and look very earnestly. At first, he appeared to me like "some great one," who thought, by his presence, to embarrass me ; and to my sorrow I found myself somewhat intimidated ; but remembering that men are only dust, and that the servant of the Most High should not fear the face of clay, my mind was measurably relieved of its em- barrassment. When the meeting closed, he beckoned to me, observ- ing that he wished some conversation. Following him two rods from the court house, he stopped on the side walk, raised his hand, and in an elevated tone of voice, said ; " / am a Methodist preacher in this city, and your friend ; — I advise you to go home and stay there till you can preach. You may preach till you are as old as Methuselah, and you will never do any good, unless you preach better than you have to-dayP He then left me without fur- ther ceremony. I stood amazed, and a flood of tears bursting from my eyes, gave some relief to my wounded spirit. Gladly would I have taken his advice, if I could have enjoyed peace in so doing. But my commission had not been received from man, nei- ther could it be recalled by man ; and the path of duty had been made too plain for me to doubt at this time. A friend solicited me to go to his house and take refreshment ; but an appointment necessitated me to decline. We walked a little distance in com- pany, and he inquired, " What said our preacher to you ?" I gave no answer till he remarked, they feared he had said something that would occasion me a trial. I then stated his remarks ; upon which lie appeared grieved, and observed, " He will hear of this again." In an affectionate manner, he gave me good advice, and said, " Do not be discouraged, but do what you think to be duty ;" then bid- ding me " God speed," we parted. This man was a citizen of Troy, and a justice of the peace. I understood that for many years, he had been a member of the Methodist society, and for some time a class leader. Some others invited me to their hous- es, and on parting, left some small pieces of money in my hand.

At this time, the ice in the Hudson was broken up, and floating down the stream, rendered the crossing so dangerous, that the ferry- man durst not venture with me till evening; then without difficulty we reached the opposite shore. The mud was deep, and the travelling quite fatiguing ; I succeeded, however, in meeting my appointment the next morning in Schenectady. On the day following, I went

DAVID MARKS. &7

to Florida, and preached to a solemn assembly in a ball room. The Schoharrie bridge had been carried away by a late flood, which obliged me to disappoint two congregations. Walking up the creek nine miles in the early part of the evening, I crossed on Burton's bridge ; and then walked seven miles further, to Dea. Campbell's, in Charlestown ; where, at a late hour, they received me affection- ately. Here, I found my horse had been very sick, and was now hardly fit for use. I held a meeting in this place, and a good sea- son was enjoyed. The people were very kind, and communicated considerable, for which I felt grateful.

I next held meetings in Canajoharrie, Hardwick, and Winfield. Sabbath, March 10, I spoke to an assembly of several hundred in Brookfield. The converts, with apparent gladness, welcomed my return ; and many of them appeared much engaged. Several, who were mourning for their sins when I left the town the winter be- fore, were now happy in the Lord.

On Monday morning I left early, having an appointment at the Baptist Seminary in Hamilton, at 9 o'clock, A. M. When within tliree miles of the place, as I was riding down a hill on a quick step, my horse stumbled, and I fell on my head ; but rising imme- diately on my feet, a violent pain caused by the fall, deprived me of strength, and I fell into a ditch by the side of the road. The air appeared to me full of fire, and everything had a fiery and un- natural appearance. My mind wavered — feelings of insensibility fast stole upon me ; — and, concluding death's cold hand was about to release my soul from its house of clay, in my thoughts I bade adieu to the world with its sorrows : — a calm peace filled my soul, and in a moment I was senseless. The next I knew, a stran- ger stood behind me, supporting me in his arms. He had seen me fall, and had taken me up, expecting I was dead. But much to the surprise of myself and others, I so far recovered that I was able to ride on a slow walk to my appointment, about an hour after the time. I spoke from Matt. 24:44 ; " Therefore he ye also ready : for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh^ To me this was a solemn meeting, and the audience seemed greatly affect- ed. At the close, a young man desired me to pray with him, and said he was resolved to seek the Lord. During prayer, he kneel- ed in the presence of the assembly, and soon after found peace in believing. In the after part of the day, though the travelling was very bad, several hundred assembled in Eaton, to whom I spoke with much freedom. Scores wept profusely, and sighed for salva- tion; about forty arose for prayer. At a prayer meeting in the evening, twenty-five promised, by giving me their hand as a sign, to seek the Savior.

68 MEMOIRS OP

Leaving Eaton, I held several meetings in Georgetown and Kelson ; and in the latter place met with opposition from the wick- ed. My labors in Nelson seemed to me almost lost ; but a minis- ter who resided in that vicinity has since told me that he baptized several, who dated their awakening at the meeting which was so disturbed by the ungodly. How little does the sower know, when he sows the seed, which shall prosper " this or that ; or w^hether they both shall be alike good." Often the servant of Christ, after dispensing the word, groans within himself and sighs, while he is tempted to believe his labor has been in vain ; but the promise is sure, " He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall, doubtless, come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." Psalm 126:6.

On Thursday, I preached at Manlius Square, and during a stay of three days, attended eight meetings in Manlius township. Some were awakened, and eleven or twelve solemnly engaged to attend to "life's great concern." Sunday, March 17, I held two meetings : the latter in Gettysburg was a favored season. The next day, I arrived at my father's, having been absent four months and six days. In this time I had seen much of the glory of God, and his won- derful works among the children of men. My Heavenly Father had watched over me, and supplied my wants, and now permitted me to return in peace, to my surviving parent. Blessed be the Lord for all his tender mercies.

Having used the utmost economy in my expenses, and carefully guarded the small pieces of money given me in different places, I found enough remaining to pay for my horse ; and I felt to praise God, and adore his providence in thus opening my way to travel and publish salvation.

DAVID MARKS. 69

CHAPTER VIL

The particulars of my travels and labors for nearly three months after my return from New Hampshire.

During a stay of six days in Junius, I attended four meetings ; then leaving home on Tuesday, March 26, went to Scipio, and there saw my youngest brother ; and thence went to Genoa, where my sister resided. While with them, my feelings were pained, and my heart was sad, as their presence called to mind the change death had made in my father's family ; and although I had good reason to believe they were committed to the care of those who treated them kindly, yet the reflection that they were motherless, almost overpowered my feehngs.

Tarrying in Scipio and Genoa a few days, I held ten meetings, in some of which the power of God was manifested. On Monday evening, April 1st, I preached to a solemn and attentive assembly in Dry den ; and the next day in Candor, where I enjoyed the sweet presence of my Master. Some were awakened, and soon found Jesus.

From Candor, I went to Owego creek, and attended four meet- ings ; thence to Caroline and preached thrice. In the last meeting, a number were seriously concerned for their eternal welfare, and bowed the knee while we pleaded for mercy in their behalf. Some were soon brought to sing praises to the Redeemer. On the even- ing of the same day, I preached again in Candor, and the Spirit gave utterance. The power of the Highest gladdened the hearts of his saints, while sinners trembled under his mighty hand. It was a time of mourning and weeping, of joy and gladness. Eight were awakened, and with four other mourners, bowed for the first time, at mercy's altar. Some of these were of the first respecta- bility in Society, soon became happy and sung the praises of Emmanuel.

Monday, April 8, I held a meeting in Owego ; then crossing the Susquehanna, entered Pennsylvania, preached once, then returned and spoke at the Gaskill ferry. Many appeared to receive the word with gladness. Crossing the Susquehanna again, I preached a second time in the village of Owego. A considerable assembly was present, and some heard with candor, while others, like Gallio, cared for none of these things. After this, I attended a meeting in Berkshire ; and on the morning of the 10th, though very rainy, a large number assembled near Owego creek. The Lord gave me a message, and directed it to the hearts of the people. In the after-

70 MEMOIRS OF

noon I preached again, and in the evening held a meeting in Car- oHne. Here twenty-two covenanted to kneel and pray twice a day for three weeks, and gave me their hands as a token. Many of these seemed to be deeply sensible of their lost situation without the Savior.

Thursday, I enjoyed a precious season in Candor while preach- ing Christ. Seven told me, that since my last meeting in that place they had found Jesus, and were happy in his love. In a meeting the next day, I was especially favored with the Divine presence, and heard seven declare their detennination to seek the Lord. Saturday, I rode twenty-three miles to Berkshire, and in the evening, spoke the word with freedom. Many appeared ten- der, and four desired the prayers of Christians.

Sunday, April 14, I held three meetings ; one in Candor, and two fifteen miles distant ; and the next day attended meeting in Candor. Another soul had been brought into the liberty of the gospel. After sermon, we walked to the stream, and a solemn con- gregation crowded its banks. Elder G. baptized nine of the con- verts, who came up out of the water happy, and rejoicing in God. Sinners wept as they beheld the scene ; and soon after leaving the water, one heavy laden soul came into the liberty of the gospel. In the evening, the cries of penitents still saluted our ears.

Tuesday, I again spoke in the name of the Lord, and a few came forward for prayers, some of whom appeared to be not far from the kingdom of God. The day following, while speaking the word on the Shendaken creek, the power of God descended on the peo- ple. Those who had neglected the Savior, saw the awful nature of sin ; and a view of its consequences caused many to sigh. Sev- eral gave me their hands, desiring to be remembered at the throne of grace. In the evening, I preached in Candor, and a number of converts, for the first time, confessed Christ.

At a meeting during the revival in Candor, it was impressed on my mind after preaching, to say to the people, that I believed a person near me would die in three days. No sooner had I made the re- mark, than several began to weep bitterly. On the next day, as I was visiting from house to house, I came to an inn ; and a daugh- ter of the landlord asked me if she was not the one concerning whom I had the impression on the evening previous. I told her she was. Immediately she wept aloud. I told her my impression did not re- spect temporal death, but a death to sin. Then she appeared to be reUeved, and said she hoped it would be so. At this instant her father came in, in a great rage, and demanded whether I was the boy that was around scaring folks to death by prophesying that they would die. Before I had half answered his question, he chased me out of his house. I entreated him to let me explain what I

DAVID MARKS. 71

had said, but he refused. I then requested that I might pray in the house ; this he refused also. I then asked if I might pray at his door steps. He then chased me into the street. His wife and daugliter wept and entreated him to forbear ; but in vain. I then kneeled in the street before the house and prayed. He shut the door and went out of sight ; but his wife and family opened the windows and listened. After this I visited other families, and found that great opposition was raised among the people and breth- ren. Contempt was heaped upon me without reserve ; and some said, " We will see whether he is a true prophet." Sometimes I indeed trembled myself, and feared I had been mistaken. But two or three hours before the three days were out, it pleased the Lord to convert the young woman, and this generally stopped the mouths of gainsay ers. I was informed that the landlord had a tenant who was pious, and that by hearing his landlord say much against me, he became doubtful whether I had been sent of the Lord. He had practiced praying daily under a certain apple-tree in the orchard ; and now he prayed to Him who made the jig-tree harren, if he had sent me, to make that apple-tree which had just leaved out, " vfith- er away." From that day the leaves withered, and in three weeks they became dry. He said he sought to find a natural cause for the dying of the tree, but could find none.

Thursday and Friday, April 18 and 19, having appointments, I rode sixty miles in a storm of rain and snow to the town of Milo ; and on the two days following, attended five meetings in Benton and Penn Yan. Monday, 22d, I was much distressed with a pain in my side ; but rode to an appointment in Jerusalem, and spoke half an hour to an assembly that appeared much affected. At the close of the interview, a young man came forward for prayer, soon professed faith in the Redeemer, and became a bold witness for the truth. In compliance with a request, I went to the house formerly occupied by Jemima Wilkinson, who called herself, " The Univer- sal Friend ;" and was kindly treated by the people living in the house, to whom she bequeathed her property. I could not ascer- tain that her followers (as is commonly reported) call her Christ. They say, " The Spirit of Christ dwelt abundantly in the Friend." They would not call her a woman or Jemima Wilkinson, nor apply to her any of the personal pronouns of the feminine gender. They are industrious, charitable, regular in their habits, much attached to their own customs and sentiments, and treat all with ci^^lity and tenderness. They disapprove of marriage.

On Tuesday, I was relieved of the pain in my side by the let- ting of blood, and preached twice in Middlesex. The day follow- ing, I held a meeting in Bristol, thirty miles distant, and the next day preached in Richmond. Passing through Livonia, I preached

72 MEMOIRS 0**

Christ in the villages of Geneseo and Moscow. I felt great bold- ness in proclaiming free salvation, and in vindicating the doctrine, that " God is no respecter of persons,^^ but will have all men to he saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth. This doctrine pleas- ed some, and offended others. One of my hearers, whose heart the Lord opened, requested entertainment for me at a public house, promising that he would pay the charge. But the landlord refus- ed, declaring that a man who would preach such doctrine, should have no place in his house. I understood also, that a man follow- ed me with a horsewhip, to chastise me for preaching heresy, but finally was persuaded to desist.

After leaving Moscow, I attended meetings in Perry, Leicester, Wales, Boston and Eden, which closed my line of appointments that had been long standing, and had employed my time for nearly two months.

On Friday, May 3, I left Boston, and at five o'clock, P. M. preached in Attica, forty miles distant ; at nine the next morning, in Perry, twenty-two miles from Attica ; and at twelve the same day in Moscow. In the latter place, twelve manifested a desire for the one thing needful. The Lord gave me much freedom in speaking to an assembly in the evening at Livonia, and the hearts of many appeared to be touched. After the close of the meeting, I rode eight miles the same evening, in a cold rain ; and in conse- quence, found my health much impaired.

Sunday, May 5, I preached in the A. M. to a people in Bristol, that seemed to hear as for eternity ; and in the P. M. to several hundred in the north part of the town. I felt to bless God for the assistance of his Holy Spirit, and the solemnity that reigned. At the hour of five, I preached standing on a stone, in the open street, to about three hundred people in Canandaigua village. Some ap- peared to receive the word ; others cared not for the things which belong to their eternal peace. At ten the next morning, standing on a stump where two ways met, I preached in Gorham to about forty, who seemed to hear for the judgment day ; and at one o'clock, P. M., spoke again in the street, to about two hundred, near Federal hollow. In this meeting the Lord gave me great freedom, and directed the truth to the hearts of the hearers. At five o'clock, P. M., I spoke to an assembly in Middlesex. The next day I rode twenty miles, and attended three meetings ; and the day following preached twice. Thursday, after travelling twenty-four miles, and preaching in Penn Yan and Benton, I found myself quite ill, and unable to attend my evening a-ppoint- ment in Milo. The next day, being somewhat strengthened, I travelled twenty miles and held one meeting.

HJLVItk MJLRKS. 73

On Saturday and Sunday, the 11th and 12th of May, the Ben- ton Quarterly Meeting was held in Junius. I was still very fee- ble, but being requested, I spoke to the people on the Sabbath, from Acts 17:30 : " And the times of this ignorance God winked at, hut now commandeth all men everywhere to repent'*

I now found my illness to be occasioned by the measles ; a dis- order of which I had not before had the least suspicion. As I had been constantly meeting with people, a large number had taken the disorder, and I felt much tried on the account ; but as I could not find that any, who took it of me, died in consequence of it, I was much relieved. After meeting closed, with difficulty, I walked two miles to my father's, was confined one week, and consequently un- able to attend my appointments, which extended to the west one hun- dred miles. This was the first time I had disappointed congrega- tions on account of illness. Large numbers collected in many places ; and though unable to be with them in body, I was with them in ' spirit, and earnestly prayed that Jesus would be one in their midst.

Monday, May 20, having recovered from my illness, I set out for the Owego Quarterly Meeting, which was to be held in Can- dor, on the 25th and 26th of the month. I tarried two days by the way, in Dryden, and preached the word. At the Quarterly Meeting a good season was enjoyed, and on the Sabbath, several were baptized.

Monday, Heft for the Holland Purchase, and in five days travelled one hundred and ninety miles, to Concord. In this town the Erie Quarterly Meeting commenced its session on Saturday, June 1, 1822. A grove was prepared with seats for the people, and about one hundred assembled. After some preaching and exhortation, I addressed the assembly about three quarters of an hour ; but enjoying little liberty, I took my seat under considerable depres- sion of spirit, and soon the exercises closed. In the evening, a preacher, who heard my discourse, observed that he did not think it was my duty to preach, and that he was satisfied my preaching had done no good. After replying that I felt I had not a praying audience, he said he did not think I had ; that he did not pray for me, for he thought me out of the place of duty. Feeling con- scious it had been my intention to walk in the path of humble obe- dience, a degree of peace comforted my heart.

Monday, I preached in Zoar and Concord. My soul was happy, the Lord blessed his word, and in one of these meetings, five awak- ened souls came forward for prayer. At five o'clock, P. M. the preacher above mentioned held a meeting in Boston. After the conclusion of his sermon, I gave an exhortation, and then accom- panied him to Elder R. Carey's. On resuming the subject of for- 7

74 MEMOIRS OF

mer conversation, he said to me, " Either you or I have not the spirit of Christ ; — It is pride that causes you to travel so extensive- ly,— you wish to get a great name,'' S^c, — " curiosity brings the people out to hear you, and after preaching tivo or three times in a place, you cannot get so large a congregation as at first." To these remarks I made little reply ; for being confident, that, in some things at least, he labored under a mistake, they affected me lit- tle.

But as I awoke next morning, a gloom veiled my mind. I arose and without taking any food, proceeded on foot, through a severe rain, to Eden, where I had an appointment. Wliile travelling, the remarks of him whom I believed a father in Israel, and to whom I had looked for encouragement, rushed upon me. And reflecting that his labors had been greatly blessed to the conversion of souls — that he was highly esteemed, and considered a spiritual preacher, sore temptations beset me. Thinking I might have been deceived respecting duty, and have engaged in a work to which God had not called me, my faith began to fail — unbelief increased — the powers of darkness bound my soul, and all my hope seemed blast- ed. My distress and trials were past expression, and unparalleled by any thing that I had hitherto experienced. I turned aside into a wood, prostrated myself on the wet ground, and poured forth my grief in sighs and tears. Perhaps I never came nearer sinking under trials, and vowing, like Jeremiah, no more to speak in the name of the Lord, than I did at this time. I lamented that I had any appointments, and concluded that after attending those I had already given out, I would make no more ; and in case there was no change in my mind, would tell the people that I had been de- ceived and should preach no more. O how important, that fathers in Israel be exceedingly careful that they hurt ndl the oil and the wine. Young preachers, and those who are inexperienced, can- not, at the best, exercise the wisdom and skill of more experi- enced ministers. They may often err in judgment as to duty — they may often err in the selection of a subject, and in the explan- ation of Scripture, as possibly / might in this case, and probably may have done at some other times. Yet as these errors are al- most inseparable from the improvement of young and weak gifts, how necessary it is that elder brethren deal tenderly with such; striving with gentleness to admonish and correct them, when they see them in error. A few words of discour- agement from one of age and experience, may forever destroy the xjonfidence and faith of the tender mind. Experience lamentably proves the hurt that is done tender minds by harsh treatment and severe reproofs from the fathers and mothers in Israel. Instead of its disposing them to trust more in the Lord, it generally discour-

DAVID MARKS. 75

ages and disheartens them, and frequently causes their faith to fail. Omay the Lord give his followers wisdom to become nursing fa- thers and nursing mothers in Israel, and gently lead the children along in the paths of duty. I arose and went to my appointment with a gloomy mind, and dreaded to meet the people. On enter- ing the assembly, I remained in silence a few minutes, thinking to tell them I had been deceived with regard to my duty ; but in an in- stant, former experience and former evidences of the duty Grod requir- ed of me, rose clearly to view ; and with them, peace flowed into my soul. My doubts fled — and reflecting that " Great men are not ahcays wise ;" neither are good men always perfect, I was convinced my duty might be better known to myself than to any other erring mor- tal ; and, though saying in my heart with the apostle, " Who is sufficient for these things?" I arose and commenced speaking. The word of the Lord was like fire shut up in my bones, and his power attended it to the hearts of the people. Sinners wept, saints rejoiced, and my soul was happy in God. Seven were awakened and bowed before the Lord, while we pleaded for mercy. I next preached with much freedom in Hamburg, Attica, and again in Eden.

CHAPTER Vni.

My Journey to Ohio.

For some time I had felt that it was my duty to go to Oliio, and declare the glad tidings of salvation to the inhabitants of that new section of country* And having made such preparations for my journey as were practicable, I left my horse with a friend in Ham- burgj went to Black Rock on Wednesday, June 12, and engaged a pg^sage in a schooner to Portland, Ohio. In the morning we em- barked, and sailing up Niagara, anchored opposite Buffalo till about four o'clock, P. M., when we weighed anchor, and before a gentle breeze sailed up the lake. The sun shone beautifully, and the waves rolled gently, as the land of my friends and acquaint- ance gradually receded. Placing myself at the stem, I fixed my eyes on Buffalo, till niglit rendered every object indistinct ; and I said adieu to many precious brethren and agreeable acquaintances, who have often administered to my necessities and soothed my sor- rows. Then turning my thoughts to the land in which I should soon be a stranger, tears stole down my cheeks. But reflecting upon the care my Heavenly Father has over his childi*en, I retir-

76 MEMOIRS OF

ed to the cabin, and soon sunk into a gentle slumber for the first time on the water, and passed the night in a calm and sweet re- pose. In the morning we found we had made ninety jniles ; the sun again shone pleasantly, and the bosom of the lake was peace- ful. At the south stretched the Pennsylvania shores ; at the north appeared a vast expanse of water. While gazing on the sublime and beautiful prospect before me, my heart was filled with adora- tion. A calm succeeding, we advanced but little ; and on Satur- day were still in sight of Pennsylvania. Being requested, I preach- ed on deck from John 3:14, 15. Although the crew seemed to listen attentively, the word appeared to have little place in their hearts. This day I ate the last of my provisions ; the weather be- came unpleasant, and the lake that a little time before was almost unruffled, now became very tempestuous.

Monday, June 17, the wind and storm abated. Our voyage having been longer than we expected, and the wind being still con- trary, the captain of the vessel, notwithstanding his engagement, now refused to take me to Portland ; and after receiving my last money for the passage, he set me with four others on the peninsula west of Sandusky bay, and six miles opposite Portland. Here was a light-house, and besides the man who kept it, there were no inhabitants on this part of the peninsula. It was now after sun- set, and during the last forty hours I had eaten but one meal, which was given me by the captain of the vessel. The man who kept the light-house, had but little provision with him, having been dis- appointed of an expected recruit in consequence of the unfavora- ble wind. So without tasting any food, I lay down on the floor and closed my eyes to sleep, hoping to forget my hunger. But recollections of the kind brethren in New York, who had often fed and lodged me with willing and joyful hearts, together with the painful contrast of my present situation, crowded into my mind, and drove slumber from my eyes. When the men who land- ed with me had fallen asleep, the keeper, remembering the poor boy that had come far from a father's house to preach the gospel, brought me a cracker and half a pint of milk. This was a deli- cious morsel, and I received it with thanksgiving. Next morning the sun rose with splendor, and I walked out to view the surround- ing scenery. The waters of Erie lay on the east, west and north ; south, the prospect was bounded by a wood ; across the bay, Port- land appeared in sight. But I knew no way to go thither, for there was no vessel on this part of the peninsula, and I could not go by land, as the distance was sixty miles, through a marshy wil- derness. Going into the top of the light-house, I looked eastward, and, though my hunger was oppressive, and I could neither see my native land, nor any place where I had formerly travelled, yet I

DAVID MARKS. 77

found Christ to be precious, and his love filled my soul. Two of the men who landed with me had each of them a rifle ; and going this morning into a wood, they killed a fawn, which we cooked and ate without seasoning, or any other kind of food ; and it seemed a delicious morsel as ever was tasted. After this, while walking in the wood for meditation, I came suddenly to a prairie, on which the grass that was two or three feet high, was gently waving over the extended plain. Here nature displayed its lovely charms. I sat down under the shade — gazed on its beauties — and praised their Author.

The next day, being weary of waiting for a passage, one of the men and myself caulked an old skiff, that had been washed upon the shore, and set off for Portland. The skiff was so small, that our weight sunk it nearly to the top ; and it leaked so fast, that it kept me busy in lading out the water with my shoe, which I used for want of something better. After rowing along the shore about two miles, we changed our course directly across the bay for Port- land. The wind was against us ; and when about one mile from the shore, the waves ran three or four feet high, and frequently came over the top of the skiff. As we could not swim, we now began to view ourselves in danger ; but having no wish to return, we endeavored to make our way through wind and waves. Everj' moment our situation grew more perilous. The wind increased, so that we made but little progress ; and we determined to return if possible. On turning the skiff about, we were in danger of fall- ing into the troughs ; but we succeeded so well, that not more than a pail full of water ran into our vessel ; and we reached the shore at Sand Point, about two miles from the light-house. I was glad to get on the land again, though I suffered with hunger, in addition to being both wet and cold. Nature itself seemed to frown ; the sky was lowering ; the cold north-west wind rustled among the trees, and the water in billows dashed the shore. Having eaten nothing but fresh venison, without salt or other provisions, my stom- ach became disordered, and brought on weakness and stupidity. I walked along the shore ; and while my former condition, when I enjoyed plenty beneath the parental roof, or among kind brethren, was contrasted with my present situation, in which I had not even the privilege of entering the houses of strangers, I wept bitterly- Falling on my knees, I called on the name of the Lord. My soul was soon happy and joyful ; and, though I knew no way to get off the peninsula, or after getting off, to succeed among strangers without money, I repented not my having come into this state.

Soon we met with a man who came to the peninsula in search of cattle, and was waiting the arrival of a vessel. I gladly warm- ed myself by the fire he had kindled ; and he gave us some bread: 7*

78 MEMOIRS OF

and pork ; but my stomach was so out of order, I could eat little. In the afternoon we were gladdened by the sight of a vessel^ coming from Portland ; and on its arrival, we solicited a passage. As their business would not permit them to land us at Portland, they took us across the bay to Cedar Point. Taldng our portman- teaus on our shoulders, we walked nine miles on the beach of the lake, before we came to any house ; and being very thirsty, were glad to drink some poor water. After travelling three miles fur- ther into Milan, I found brethren, who received me affectionately. Blessed be the Lord for all his goodness.

In this town, a Freewill Baptist church had been gathered three years before, by Elder J. N. Hinkley ; and from that time it had been visited by only two or three preachers of the Freewill Bap- tist order ; yet, they had continued their meetings, and in a good degree maintained a gospel walk. Thursday, June 20, I had the privilege of preaching to them.

After this, I attended meetings with some appearance of success in the towns of New-London, Clarksfield, and Danbury. In the latter, a backslider, at the age of seventy, was called to exchange worlds. When viewing himself about to go into eternity, he re- marked, that although he did not then enjoy religion, he knew he once had ; and therefore it was impossible that he should be lost ; for he doubted not, that all who had once experienced pardoning grace, would be saved. So, quieting his mind thus in his last mo- ments, to all human appearance, he left the world without concern. In compliance with a request, I preached the funeral sermon. Soon after the people had collected, two sons of the deceased entered the house. They came to visit their ancient sire, ignorant of the sad tale. But disappointment and anguish filled their hearts, and their lamentations rendered the scene still more solemn and affect- ing. We followed him to the silent tomb, the house appointed for all living ; then each went his way, and the mourners returned to their habitation, weeping.

Elder Collins of New York, and myself, appointed a general meeting in Milan on the 29th and 30th of June. Brethren attend- ed from three small churches, in Milan, Greenfield and Clarks- field; which were the only Freewill Baptist churches in this part of the country. On the first day, our number was about twenty ; and truly, the form of the Son of God was in our midst, to the great joy of our hearts. A Quarterly Meeting was this day or- ganized, called Huron Quarterly Meeting. On the Sabbath, about one hundred and fifty met in a barn. I spoke to them from Isa. 33:16, 17 : " He shall dwell on high : his place of defence shall he the munitions of rocks,^' ^c. Being requested to preach again in the afternoon, I spoke from Jeremiah 17:11 : "As the partridge sit-

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teth on eggs, and hatcheth them not ; so he that getteth riches, and not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool." Elder Collins delivered a discourse from Heb. 4:9 : " There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God." We then ate the bread, and drank the cup in remembrance of our Lord's body that was broken, and his blood that was shed for us. Several animating exhortations followed ; many tears were shed ; and many, we trust, felt the need of salvation, and went away sor- rowful. July 2 and 3, I attended meetings in Milan. The four days following were spent at a Methodist camp meeting in Flor- ence, Huron county, in which I enjoyed the privilege of preaching once from the stand, and of speaking several times at prayer meet- ings. During this period some were hopefully converted. Mon- day, July 8th, a Methodist brother in Brunswick, kindly lent me a horse to go to the south part of the stlate. I preached during the week in Greenfield, Plymouth, Brunswick and Fitchville. In the latter place the power of God was among the people. Seventeen engaged, by giving me their hands, to commence immediately seek- ing the salvation of their souls. A revival followed this meeting, in which fifteen or twenty were converted to God.

Tuesday, July 16, I preached in Greenwich, after which a church was organized. In the evening, I spoke to a very attentive assembly in Plymouth, ten miles distant ; and the next evening preached in the court house at Mansfield, thirty miles further south. The congregation was large and solemn. Thursday and Friday, I travelled fifty-five miles to Raccoon, and there attended worship. On Saturday, I rode thirty miles to a Methodist camp-meeting. Here, I spent three days, and had the privilege of preaching once, which was at midnight ; and of exhorting and praying several times. Resuming my journey I passed through Chilicothe, thence down the Sciota river to Portsmouth, situated on the Ohio river at the mouth of the Sciota.

The country through which I passed was interesting to the stran- ger. For two hundred miles it is level and fertile ; and by the way, are many large farms in beautiful order. At one place, where I called on a farmer, I noticed the largest field of corn that I had ever seen, and asked the number of acres it contained ; he re- plied, " one hundred and sixteen ;" and remarked that he had two hundred acres of corn then growing on his farm ; and that the year before, he raised ten thousand bushels. However, this could hard- ly be called a " land of brooks and springs," for in general water was both scarce and poor.

On this journey I had an interview with a minister of consider- able talents, belonging to a sect who called themselves Separate Baptists ; but are denominated by some, Wash Feet Baptists ; be-

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cause they believe washing