In Calvisson the pasteur himself, a kind Christian man, chose to interpret for them, which they thought a great condescension, as it would doubtless expose him to ridicule from some who did not approve of a woman's gift in the ministry. They held a powerful meeting at Congènies, and found that many were there who had not attended a religious meeting before for twenty years. They thought it prudent for a time, being much worn by long service, to rest and try and gain some strength to go on. Eli Jones's health was especially poor. After this short respite they were much refreshed for the work, and attended a meeting at Auvergne numbering fully eight hundred or a thousand people. They appreciated fully the support of the pasteurs, which was so lovingly tendered them.
They felt everywhere the disastrous effects of the degraded position of women. Having so much manual labor to perform, they are unfitted for the proper care of their children; consequently, both their minds and bodies are frequently uncared for, and the home, that great training-school, is not rendered as bright and attractive as it should be. This, S. Jones thought, is what makes the French people so volatile and often skeptical. The places of public amusement are often sought in preference to the home.
Their work among the soldiers was a wonderful thing. Many came to their meetings, and, laying aside their swords and taking off their caps, sat meekly down to hear the glad tidings of "peace on earth and good-will toward men." A remarkable movementsprang up among them. One of their number said that at one time but three of them met for worship, but lately nine had joined their number, and they felt much encouraged. Many meetings were attended by these soldiers, who seemed to appeal directly to Eli and Sybil Jones's sympathies.
They held a meeting at St. Hippolyte with the few Friends there, at the Moravian meeting-house, and were very urgently pressed to hold more meetings in that place. Fears were often felt by their friends that order could not be maintained in their meetings, owing to the novelty of the thing; but they always, even in very large audiences, met with the utmost respect and attention. They went on one occasion to Marseilles, and took a short trip on the Mediterranean, and felt that they gained some strength by the change. Sybil Jones, accompanied by some of her friends and the good pasteur Abausit, who had been such a kind friend and interpreter, went to Montpellier to visit the prison. They were much pleased with the neatness and order of the entire establishment, and met the most courteous treatment from the chaplain and director. There was much tenderness shown by the prisoners. There were in the prison eight hundred Catholic and fourteen Protestant prisoners. They were not allowed to speak to the former, but were enabled to pray earnestly for the other poor souls. They held a very large meeting in the afternoon, and it was to them a precious season. Sybil Jones visited two prisoners in their cells, and pleaded tenderly with them.
They then returned to Nismes and held a largemeeting. One of the pasteurs told them, in explanation of their kind reception on every hand, that the Society of Friends moved along so prudently, peaceably, and happily that they were received by all as Christian brethren. At a meeting in St. Hippolyte great contrition was felt by a man who had not attended meeting for many years, and would not permit his wife to go, and forbade his sister to enter his house because she was religious. He received his sister after the meeting, and seemed greatly humbled. They felt that the Lord was speaking through his instruments, and were encouraged to go forward. They held many large and much-blessed meetings at Gallargues and Congènies, and visited many to whom they were attracted, as they showed a concern for their souls' welfare. Many came to inquire of them the "way," and they formed many acquaintances and felt a binding interest in the people, whose souls were so precious.
When the two-months' meeting again assembled they had renewed cause for encouragement. It was a meeting graciously ordered by the Lord. The meeting for worship on First-day morning was remarkably covered with divine power and goodness, and Eli Jones seemed unusually "clothed upon with gospel unction." The meeting for business admitted into membership a man who had been a Methodist minister, and received requests from twelve others. They were once invited to the home of a good pasteur named Mensard, where they met five other pasteurs, and their conversation was most pleasant concerning the ministry and "things of the kingdom."
And now they felt that the burden of souls in the south of France was rolled off, and they were sweetly released for service in other fields. They held a large parting meeting, and many came to take leave, among them a poor soldier in whom they were greatly interested. He had been ordered to Constantinople without the companionship of any of his religious friends. Of this they were not aware, and it was remarkable that they felt impressed to read the ninety-first Psalm, which seemed so suited to his case, and Sybil Jones was wonderfully helped to pray for the poor soldier. The parting with the school-children was an affecting season, and they at last set off, leaving a large group of friends at the hotel-door for whom their hearts reached out in tenderness and love.
They went to Avignon, and from there by boat on the Rhone to Lyons. On First day they attended three meetings in that city; where they found an earnest, seeking people. They lodged with a dear friend who was received into membership at the last meeting. He seemed to be exerting a religious influence about him. They enjoyed their intercourse with his interesting family, and M. J. Lecky offered to take their youngest son, Benjamin, to England to obtain a knowledge of the English language; which pleased his parents and he was committed to her care. They spent one day in the great capital, and admired the magnificent and stupendous works of art with which Paris is adorned. Sailed from Havre for Southampton. There they attended one meeting, and thence proceeded to London. They attended Suffolk quarterly meeting. The power of the Lord was felt, especiallyby the young. Lodged at Richard Dikes Alexander's.
In London they lodged at Thomas Norton's, and attended London quarterly meeting. Attended Brighton select meeting, and stayed at Daniel Prior Hack's. They also attended meetings at Croydon and Lewes, and Gloucester quarterly meeting; all of which were honored by the Master's presence. On the 11th of 4th mo. they set off for Plymouth, and soon after sailed for the dear home in America, leaving all their work with the Master, for it was all done in His name. They carried with them sweet memories of the aid and fellowship extended to them by the French pasteurs. They also carried with them numerous written testimonials of the pasteurs' appreciation of their labor of love among them. The following is a letter from the pasteurs and elders of Calvisson expressive of their feeling toward these laborers in the Master's vineyard who had come from a distant land:
"We, the pasteurs and elders of the church of Calvisson (Gard), declare that we have received the visit of Eli and Sybil Jones, ministers of the Society of Friends. They have held two edifying public meetings in our temple, before a numerous and attentive audience, as well as a special meeting for the children of our schools. Moreover, they have held a pastoral conference at Calvisson (Gard), at which eleven pasteurs of our consistory and the neighboring churches were present. We are happy to thank these dear friends for the evangelical words they have brought to us. Their presence has been for us a means of edificationand of encouragement. Their prayers and their exhortations, impressed with great spirituality, have produced deep convictions and been visibly blessed, and have penetrated into the hearts of all those who have had the privilege of hearing them. The interest they have manifested for the salvation of souls and the advancement of the kingdom of God has touched us in a lively manner, and has given us the impression that they do not propose any other end nor any other recompense for their sacrifices and their labors. They have spoken amongst us the words of peace and charity, nor has anything in their discourses wounded any faithful soul, either as regards his faith or his individual opinions. We ask that in an especial manner the divine blessing may attend the spiritual ministry of Mr. and Mrs. Jones. We desire that the dear brother and sister may be instrumental in shedding around them, wherever the Lord may call them, that humble confidence in the wisdom from above that characterizes all their discourses and their lives. May the Father of spirits, who holds our hearts in His hand, grant to their prayers and their efforts the awakening of souls and of consciences! Our Church will always preserve a precious remembrance of these dear friends, and sends them, through us, the expression of its prayers and its gratitude. We declare that we know individually that Eli and Sybil Jones have also visited the greater part of the numerous churches which surround us, and that everywhere their preaching has been heard with the same interest and the same edification. All our brethren have been, like ourselves, moved and charmed by the unction and the grace oftheir Christian exhortations. In the belief thereof we have given to them the present certificate.
"Tempie, Pastor-President of the Consistory of Calvisson.
"Theodore Abausit, Pastor.
"Reant, Moderator of the Consistory.
"C. Bernary, Treasurer.
"Calvisson(Gard),March 10, 1854."
"When Christ came into the World peace was sung; and when He went out of the world peace was bequeathed."
"When Christ came into the World peace was sung; and when He went out of the world peace was bequeathed."
The first decided action of the Maine Legislature in regard to the sale of intoxicating liquors was taken in the autumn of 1846. Much work had been done during the two preceding years in the towns to arouse the people to the necessity of bringing about an entire revolution, and the temperance organizations worked zealously to base all the structure they built on total abstinence. The foundation truth was laid by Jesus Christ in Judea in words that meant, "If any one of thy passions or appetites causes thee to do wrong, cut it off and cast it from thee." Thenecessityfor total abstinence was vigorously enforced by Eli Jones whenever he spoke. Enough believers in temperance were sent to the Legislature in 1846 to pass a law "to restrict the sale of intoxicating drinks." This was followed in 1851 by an "Act for the suppression of drinking-houses and tippling-shops." This was the well-known "Maine Law," and forbade the manufacture for sale of intoxicating liquors, except cider. Unadulterated cider in quantities of five gallons and upward might be sold. There were thirty-nine other sections directed against liquor-selling, drunkenness,and the habit of drinking in the community. This law accomplished a very beneficial work. One of its great results was to bring the temperance question more emphatically before the other States and nations. At home it made drinking disgraceful and took away to a great extent the temptation from the young men. While in small towns it was nearly a perfect success in closing all shops, in the cities there was not vigilance enough to carry out its purpose, and many felt that more vigor must be used.
Three years later, in 1854, the town of China elected Eli Jones by a large majority over two other candidates to represent it in the "House" of the Legislature. It was expected that he would carry to the State capital the views which he unceasingly expressed at home, and that he would agitate a still further reform, or, as he expressed it, "put new teeth into the old law." The choice was wholly unexpected to him, and he was working for the election of his lifelong friend, Ambrose Abbot. He was given a prominent place on the committees, and especially the Committee on Temperance. He worked almost continuously to bring about the desired legislation, but seldom spoke, most of his work being in the committee.
This was a memorable winter at Augusta, and many excellent men were there in the different branches of the State government. It was a great opportunity for a true Friend to show to legislators the worth of his principles. Eli Jones was the only man who refused to rise when the governor called upon the united House and Senate to take the oath of office, and he stood alone to giveaffirmationthat he would faithfullyperform his work. As was said before, Eli Jones, though earnestly at work for the good of the people of the State, did not address the House. Some members, who knew him intimately and wished to call him to his feet, arranged a plan, not as a personal jest, but as a scheme to gain a speech. In the course of the session the appointment of a major-general to the second division of the Maine militia came in order.
In 1838, Maine had undertaken to assert by force of arms her title to a region near the northern boundary claimed both by her and by Canada. There was much mustering of troops at the capital, and fully ten thousand soldiers marched through the deep snow and fierce cold to drive the enemy from Aroostook county. Though they were brave and ready for battle, happily no blood was shed and peace was wisely made; but the "Aroostook War" became famous as a subject of banter and many jokes were made at the expense of its officers. The old nursery rhyme was quoted:
"The king of France, with forty thousand men,Marched up the hill and then—marched down again."
"The king of France, with forty thousand men,Marched up the hill and then—marched down again."
"The king of France, with forty thousand men,
Marched up the hill and then—marched down again."
Primarily for these two reasons, to urge Eli Jones to his feet and to joke the former officers by appointing a Quaker, an avowed peace-advocate, he was chosen unanimously to fill the vacancy in the office of major-general.
The nomination was so wholly unexpected that he was at first perplexed at his situation. Much was at stake and wisdom and caution were needed. Having his horse at Augusta, he drove that night to his home at Dirigo, fifteen miles away, chiefly perhaps to discusshis course with his family and the Friends most suitable for counsel. After talking into the night with his brother-in-law, James van Blarcom, he walked the floor alone until the new day was dawning. On arriving again at Augusta he found the occasion far more important than he had anticipated. The news had spread that the Quaker was to speak in regard to his appointment; and the Representatives' Hall was crowded, not only most of the Senate being present, but numbers from the city. The subject of the business was introduced, and Eli Jones, rising, spoke in substance as follows:
"Whatever my ambition may have been in times past, my aspirations have never embraced such an office as this as an object of desire. I can assure the House that my election as major-general was an honor wholly unexpected. It is true that when the governor announced to this House the existence of the vacancy, a member privately remarked to me, 'I shall vote for you,' but I replied to him, declining the honor and proposed to return the compliment.
"To my mind there is something ominous in this occurrence. I regard it as one of the wonderful developments of the times. Who of us that assembled ten years ago in quiet and retired places to affix our signatures to pledges of abstinence from intoxicating drinks would have believed that in 1855 we should be elected to the seats we now occupy amidst the overwhelming rejoicing of the people, pledged to the support of the Maine Law? Who that at that time had visited the plantations of the South, and seen the slave toiling under the lash of the taskmaster, would havebelieved that in 1855 the people of the larger portion of this great land would have roused up with a stern determination to subdue the encroachments of the slave-power, and pledge themselves never to cease their labors until the wrongs of slavery should be ameliorated—nay more, till slavery itself should be abolished? Still more wonderful, who would have believed that the State of Maine, that a few years since gloried in an Aroostook expedition, and was noisy with military training and the din of arms, would in 1855 exhibit the spectacle of a peaceable member of the Society of Friends being elected to the post of major-general of a division of the militia, and that too by the Representatives of the people in their legislative capacity?
"But I have endeavored to regulate my own conduct by the principle that legislation should not go very far in advance of public sentiment, and it seems to me that this election may possibly be ahead of that sentiment. I submit this suggestion in all candor. It is generally understood that I entertain peculiar views in respect to the policy of war. If, however, I am an exponent of the views of the Legislature on this subject, I will cheerfully undertake to serve the State in the capacity indicated. With much pleasure I should stand before the militia of the second division and give such orders as I think best. The first would be, 'Ground Arms!' The second would be, 'Right about face! beat your swords into ploughshares and your spears into pruning-hooks, and learn war no more!' And I should then dismiss every man to his farm and his merchandise, with an admonition to read daily athis fireside the New Testament and ponder upon its tidings of 'Peace on earth and good-will to men.'
"If, on the other hand, it should be determined that my election is a little in advance of the times, I am willing, as a good citizen, to bow to the majesty of law, and, as a member of the Legislature, to consult its dignity and decline the exalted position tendered me by the House; and I will now decline it. With pleasure I will surrender to the House this trust and the honor and retire to private life."
This speech was delivered amid interruptions of loud applause, and made a great sensation throughout the State. And not in Maine only; it was commented on in many of the newspapers and appeared in the columns of English journals. Pictures of the fighting Quaker were made, with the order to his troops printed below. It even came out in an African journal; so that what seemed like an unimportant pleasantry on the part of the members of the Legislature gave Eli Jones an opportunity to preach peace to a very extended audience, and his voice was heard far beyond the little State capital. From this time he was regarded with much respect by all the members, and he received encouragement and support in whatever he desired to accomplish.
At the close of the session he called to thank the governor for his kindness to him and his help in different ways, and he remarked to the latter that he had been in rather a peculiar place during the winter and had felt somewhat like a "speckled bird." The governor said, "Mr. Jones, what you call being a 'speckled bird' has given you more influence than anything elsecould possibly have done." Whatever he may have accomplished in other lines during his term of office, he gave powerful testimony in favor of peace and temperance and against the use of oaths, and he went back to his quiet farm in China thoroughly respected by all with whom he had been associated.
OAK GROVE SEMINARY.
It may be a fitting place to speak of his connection with Oak Grove Seminary, as he was at work for its interests not long after this time. As I have in my possession a letter written by him in regard to the beginning and early days of the school, I will insert it here:
"Oak Grove Seminary was started about the year 1850 by John D. Lang, Samuel Taylor, Ebenezer Frye, Alden Sampson, and Alton Pope. They had in view the guarded and religious education of the children of Friends. It was to be a 'select' school. William H. Hobbie was the first principal. I visited his school and thought him a wonderful teacher. He stood before his class without a book, and seemed to be himself the book. Up to that time I had never seen the like. Franklin Paige, the present publisher of theFriends' Review, followed William Hobbie in the principalship. Financially, the undertaking after a while proved a failure, and the school was closed.
"At a meeting of the yearly meeting's committee on education, held in China in the autumn of 1856, I advocated an effort being made to open Oak Grove Seminary again. It was opposed by some on the ground that we needed primary schools more than highschools: to that idea my answer was, We must first have high schools to prepare teachers for the primary schools. A meeting of the original proprietors of the seminary was called, and the question put to them, 'Are you willing to have other Friends join you in opening the seminary?' Samuel Taylor replied, 'We want to know first what you will do; we do not want to depend upon a rope of sand.'—'What are the conditions on which we can join you?'—'Do as much as we have; give $2500.' To this Alden Sampson replied, 'It is useless to think of opening the school with $2500; we must have $15,000. If you will raise that amount I will give $1000.' Ebenezer Frye responded as liberally. A committee was appointed to raise the fifteen thousand dollars. Eli Jones, William A. Sampson, Joseph Estes, and Thomas B. Nichols were the chief workers in raising the proposed sum. They were successful. It was nearly all subscribed by six hundred Maine Friends. They constituted an association for the opening and management of Oak Grove Seminary.
"In the summer and autumn of 1857 the boarding-house was built. James van Blarcom was chosen principal, and Sarah B. Taber of Albion teacher. It was found that James van Blarcom's engagements would not allow of his occupying the place for one year, consequently Eli Jones took this position for the first year. The school opened in the 12th month, 1857. The season had been wet, and the building and preparation for the school proceeded slowly. Much hard work devolved upon the principal and teachers. The pupils were numerous, and the spring term brought140. A case of scarlet fever, resulting in the death of a lovely girl, rapidly reduced the number, which has not been reached since.
"At the opening of the second year Albert Smiley became principal and James van Blarcom governor and boarding-master.
"Albert Smiley was followed by Augustine Jones, and he by Richard M. Jones.
"Oak Grove has furnished principals for Friends' School at Providence for nearly a quarter of a century, and to the Penn Charter School of Philadelphia for about thirteen years. Ten or twelve of its pupils have been or are ministers in the Society of Friends; some are to-day leading business-men.
"The writer of this notice has been connected with the management of the institution for the last thirty years, sometimes influentially, sometimes wellnigh powerless. As the record has been made, so it will stand. I have rejoiced in the times of its prosperity; I have wept over the ashes of its fine buildings, its library, its geological museum. I now see the second temple rising from the ashes of the first with an unlooked-for splendor. May it long stand for the benefit of our race and the glory of God!"
"Follow with reverent steps the great exampleOf Him whose holy work was 'doing good;'So shall the wide earth seem our Father's temple,Each loving life a psalm of gratitude.Then shall all shackles fall; the stormy clangorOf wild war-music o'er the earth shall cease;Love shall tread out the baleful fire of anger,And in its ashes plant the tree of peace."Whittier.
"Follow with reverent steps the great exampleOf Him whose holy work was 'doing good;'So shall the wide earth seem our Father's temple,Each loving life a psalm of gratitude.Then shall all shackles fall; the stormy clangorOf wild war-music o'er the earth shall cease;Love shall tread out the baleful fire of anger,And in its ashes plant the tree of peace."Whittier.
"Follow with reverent steps the great example
Of Him whose holy work was 'doing good;'
So shall the wide earth seem our Father's temple,
Each loving life a psalm of gratitude.
Then shall all shackles fall; the stormy clangor
Of wild war-music o'er the earth shall cease;
Love shall tread out the baleful fire of anger,
And in its ashes plant the tree of peace."
Whittier.
Sybil Jones was at work in the Southern States during a part of the year 1860, and returned to her Northern home only a few weeks before the attack on Fort Sumter. The sound of war carried sorrow to the hearts of herself and her husband. They were loyal to their country and the great cause of human freedom, but they were loyal also to the Prince of peace.
"They prayed for love to lose the chain;'Twas shorn by battle's axe in twain!"
"They prayed for love to lose the chain;'Twas shorn by battle's axe in twain!"
"They prayed for love to lose the chain;
'Twas shorn by battle's axe in twain!"
For years they had longed to see the light of freedom break in on the South, but they had hoped no less for the day "when the war-drum should throb no longer" and universal peace should gladden the long watchers for its dawn. Now they saw the oncoming of a most terrible civil war, threatening the life of the nation. They mourned for mothers and fathers who must see their boys go to the field; they thought ofthe homes shattered for ever; but they did not yet realize that their eldest son was to go forth to return only on his shield—that the son who had urged them to go forward in the work of love in Liberia, their noble son, was to be demanded as a sacrifice.
The war was hardly begun when James Parnel Jones resolved to volunteer. President Lincoln's call seemed a call to him. He had been a logical reader of Sumner, and had closely watched the development of slavery, and to his mind the war to save our nationality would necessarily free the slaves. He wrote from the South: "Did I not think this war would loose the slave's chains I would break my sword and go home."
That it was hard for him to go when his parents were praying for peace there can be no doubt, but his mind was filled with the thought of saving the life of a nation, and he certainly felt that the path of duty was in that direction.
The members of the Society of Friends felt almost universally that they owed allegiance to two fatherlands. "There was a patriotism of the soul whose claim absolved them from the other and terrene fealty," and there was a manifest inconsistency between being members of "Christ's invisible kingdom" and taking arms in support of a dominion measured by acres.[7]Some felt otherwise, and they took upon themselves the hard duty of turning from society and friends to do battle.
James Parnel came home wounded, but returned to his command before his furlough had expired. He went back with the feeling that the days left him were few: he indistinctly saw what awaited him. In an engagement to carry a strong point held by the enemy at Crystal Springs, near Washington, he was struck by a ball from a sharpshooter. The ball had glanced from a tree and brought him a mortal wound. The two hearts deeply wrung to have their son go into the war at all were pierced at the news of his death. We can hardly conceive their grief for him for whom they had so earnestly prayed and agonized in his absence. Henceforth whoever wore a soldier's uniform had a place in Sybil Jones's heart. Her unspent love went out to all who were suffering on the field and in the hospitals, and she could not rest at home. Obtaining the needful credentials, she took up in a new form the arduous service of her active and consecrated life, bearing the gospel cheer to the wounded and dying in Philadelphia and Washington. She could tell the soldiers of her own son, and so touch their hearts, and her sympathy and love brought joy to many a poor sufferer. The aggregate of her visits shows that she preached and talked to thirty thousand soldiers. Toand from the field of her labor, at the dépôts, wherever she saw a uniform, she went to speak gentle words and to bear good news; and only those to whom the balm came can tell the good accomplished. Once more she met a kind reception from all. Soldiers and prisoners welcomed her, and those high in power listened with respect to her messages. She comforted the widow of President Lincoln, and twice stood before his successor, President Johnson, and faithfully warned him to rely on the Ruler of the universe for counsel in guiding the helm of state.
She left home in 1st mo., 1865, with a certificate for service. On her way to the field in which she felt called to labor she visited her children in Philadelphia, and attended meeting at Germantown, where she was favored with a gospel message. She also attended Twelfth street meeting and the large quarterly meeting in Arch street, where she was constrained to speak for her Master. She then proceeded to Baltimore, accompanied by Lydia Hawkes of Manchester, Maine. In this city she met her dear husband, who had been separated from her for three months. He was much worn by his labors as distributing agent of the New England Friends. He had distributed to the necessities of the freedmen food, clothing, beds, etc., according to the quantity sent to the mission. He had visited them from hut to hut, administering as well to their spiritual as to their temporal needs. They together attended Baltimore quarterly meeting, and on the 9th of 2d mo. arrived in Washington.
Sybil Jones rested a few days, and then commenced the labors for which she was liberated. Her first servicewas in Judiciary Square. She, with her companion, was taken there in an ambulance, and they were preceded and introduced by their dear friend Jane James, who often gave them like aid. They were pleasantly received, and permission was granted them to perform any religious service. They visited nine wards and had service in the chapel, speaking words of comfort to those confined to their beds. Much seriousness and tenderness was apparent. They also went to the hospital at Armory Square, visited all the wards of the sick and wounded, and had chapel service. It seemed that some were turning to the Lord.
Eli Jones went for a short time to Philadelphia to try and gain a little strength, being very weary with his labors among the colored people. The mud was very deep and the work of distributing very hard. Their son, Richard Mott, accompanied his father, having spent the vacation from his studies at Haverford College with his parents at their post of duty.
Camp Hospital was also visited. They were taken out in an ambulance by Dr. Upton, who was courteous in every way. The poor wounded ones seemed thankful for the interest exhibited for their souls' welfare. Carm Hospital was visited, and all freedom was given them to point the sick and suffering to the Lamb of God. Many were in tears at the close of service in the chapel. Her own torn mother's heart gave Sybil Jones great earnestness in prayer for the bereaved ones in the far-away homes as she was called upon to attend the funerals of the soldiers. Often more than one coffin stood on a form before them,and the occasion was made a solemn admonition to the survivors to be ready when the Lord should call. One of the meetings was attended by a surgeon who had led a profane and dissolute life. He was reached by the Spirit of God, and in a meeting rose and said, "I have been living for hell; I looked toward it as my home, and fully expected it; but God has had mercy on my soul and pardoned my sins, and I mean to serve Him the rest of my days." Nearly all were in tears. When the service was over the soldiers rushed to his arms weeping with joy. He said to them: "I have treated you badly and sworn at you, but by the grace of God I will never swear again." His conversion had a wonderful effect and was a powerful testimony for the truth.
Columbia Hospital was visited. They found a very conscientious, loving superintendent in one of the wards, a lady named O. L. Pomeroy. In this ward they held a most blessed meeting and made an appointment for another.
They were obliged to move from their lodgings on account of sickness in the family, and were most kindly received by their good friends William and Jane James. They found it a great privilege to be so cared for.
They went to Lincoln Hospital, where were five thousand men. Their ministrations were much blessed: at a later visit they found four hundred more wounded soldiers from City Point. The afflicted men were all broken down with suffering and were ready for the consolation of the gospel. The field indeed seemed white unto the harvest. A lad told them that he hadbeen in the Crimean War, and had served two years in this. He was an Englishman. He showed them a silver medal gained by valor in the former war. Sybil Jones said, "I hope thou art seeking a crown in that higher warfare?" He quickly replied, "I am pressing after it with all my might; I am looking to Jesus as my Captain."
She sighed for "universal peace to reign" as she witnessed the untold miseries of cruel war. It was wonderfully touching to hear the bright testimonies of those poor feeble ones who had lain for months on their emaciated backs. Many were passing away. No one could bear to tell one poor dying youth that he could not live, and in all tenderness Sybil Jones said to him, "I think thou cannot get well; what is thy hope?" He replied, "In Jesus I believe; he has forgiven my sins. Tell my father and mother I have gone to heaven." Some seemed insensible of their danger, but were faithfully warned to prepare to meet their God. As these faithful messengers of good tidings saw the terribly mangled brought in, and beheld their patience and tenderness, they were sick at heart and prayed for the terrible tide of war to be stopped. They met with much kindness from Surgeon-general Barnes, who gave Sybil Jones a pass to all the hospitals in the United States, and a special one for the department of the South, with half-fare on Government transports.
Sybil Jones was presented to General Auger, the military commander of the District of Columbia. He said that he was much pleased with her mission. He was spoken to concerning the interests of eternity.She was presented to Secretary Stanton and Colonel Harder, and was pleased with their demeanor and readiness to aid her work in every possible way. The Centre Guardhouse was visited and its four hundred inmates lovingly warned to be ready.
On 4th mo. 1st, 1865, great excitement was felt in the capital city, as the President was personally directing affairs at Richmond, and the fall of the rebellious city was hourly anticipated. On the morning of the 3d came the joyful intelligence that the Confederate capital had been evacuated, and a great tide of rejoicing swept over the loyal States. Sybil Jones describes the scene in Washington as follows:
"I was very fearful the inhabitants would be too full of joy to remember their great Deliverer and give thanks unto His name. We went to Camp Fry, and had to press our way through the throng, often pausing to note the variety of emotions exhibited—all joyful, but neither ridiculous nor profane. A subdued awe seemed to hold in check the lawless and dissipated, and tears of joy suffused the eyes of passers-by. The whistles of the engines, the roar of cannon, the music of the various bands, and the shouts of the multitude, mingled with the prayers, praises, and hallelujahs of the colored people, some down on their knees in the dust of the street, others dancing like David before the ark of the covenant on its return to its place,—all commingled in one mighty jubilant song which I trust was not devoid of the grateful tribute of praise to the great God of heaven and earth. We at length entered the ward of the sick and wounded of two regiments, about two thousand men. As wepassed in I said, 'To-day is the nation's jubilee, and we have come to present our thank-offering with you, as you cannot join the street celebration.' A smile and 'Thank you' went round and brightened up the scene. We read a beautiful psalm and bore a testimony to the power and goodness of God, not only in hope of the full and entire emancipation of the slaves, but in disclosing to us to-day, behind the folds of the dark war-cloud, the silver lining of peace. We besought them to come to the Lamb of God, seeing his mercy and loving-kindness had been so great to them as to spare them amid the din of battle when their comrades had fallen all around them."
Sybil Jones and her friends visited Seminary Hospital, and found among the wounded a young Friend from Illinois, who was much comforted by hearing the gospel tidings from a member of the Society he loved so well. A sad scene presented itself in Douglas Hospital. There had just arrived three hundred terribly mangled soldiers, some passing away, some in agony with lost limbs. It was an indescribably painful scene, and the one "Physician of value" was recommended to the poor sufferers.
They addressed many prisoners of war, deserters from the South, and refugees. They were listened to with seriousness, and many were in tears. On a visit to Stanton Hospital, Sybil Jones met a young man from Maine named Eben Dinsmore. He told her that her son, James Parnel Jones, had been his captain when he first enlisted, and afterward his major. He spoke in the highest terms of his kindness to the men and his unspotted name, and said he heard a soldierof the same regiment say that he was with him from the time he was wounded until his death, and never saw a person die so happy, singing as he passed away.
At this time Sybil Jones and friends moved their lodgings, at the kind invitation of their friend Isaac Newton, to make their home with him for a while.
On the 15th of 4th mo. came the dreadful news that the good man who had stood so nobly at the head of the nation in this dreadful crisis had gone from works to reward, slain by the hand of the assassin. The great joy was turned into deepest mourning that he who was so endeared to all loyal hearts could not be with them to enjoy the restful time of peace. They held a meeting in the rooms of the Agricultural Department, and were comforted in their great grief by the presence of Him who said to the troubled waves, "Peace, be still." A visit was made to Stone Hospital, and it was found that the suffering ones there had had little religious instruction, but seemed grateful for Christian counsel. One poor fellow, who was dying and felt his lost condition, was entreated to look to the "Lamb of God."
A young lady came one day to Isaac Newton's and asked if a Quaker lady who preached was there. She said that some one had been thinking how appropriate it would be to have a Friends' meeting, for the awful stroke inclined them to be silent. Isaac Newton offered his parlors, and Sybil Jones consented. She says in her diary: "We met at seven o'clock, and it was one of the most blessed seasons I have enjoyed in this city. The silence seemed to have healing in itswings and balm to the stricken spirit." Much service was done in Emory Hospital; the poor fellows on their beds were visited one by one, and each was lovingly spoken to. They held meetings at Emory Hospital for the convalescent soldiers, and by all they were most gladly received. Harwood and Finley Hospitals were fields of labor, and in each the gospel message was thankfully received. At first the surgeon in charge said that he never allowed service in the wards where the men were badly wounded or passing away. Sybil Jones said to him, "Doctor, wouldst thou take the responsibility of keeping the gospel from dying men, the suffering soldiers of our country, far from their homes and mothers?"—"No," said he, "but I do not want them disturbed."—She said, "Our services never disturb; we are a quiet people." She then told him that she had a pass to all hospitals in the United States, but would not insist upon entering without his full permission. He then gave it most freely. The service was gladly received, and it seemed like drops of rain on a dry and thirsty land.
Sybil Jones felt that she must bear a message of her heavenly Father's love and sympathy to the widow of the lamented President. She had been ill, confined to her bed in the White House, since the fatal stroke. Sybil Jones says of the visit: "All crushed and broken under the heavy stroke, I spoke to her of the heavenly Chastener's love and care, and said that He could bind up the broken heart and give peace. She cordially invited us to come again. Her two sons, one about ten and the other about twenty, were at home, and very affectionate and attentive to their suffering mother,though themselves evidently feeling very deeply the sad event."
Sybil Jones felt that she was given a message for Secretary Stanton. She in company with others went to his house in the evening, and, passing a guard of soldiers, was most kindly received by his interesting wife, the Secretary being absent. They spent an hour in pleasant conversation, and then the Secretary came and greeted them kindly. Very soon silence reigned, and Sybil Jones, after asking permission, rose and addressed the Secretary, telling him that as he had been raised up by the Almighty for the important duties of his office, he must dispense justice and judgment in the fear of God, plead the cause of the oppressed, and humbly in all things do the will of the great King, and the eternal God should be his refuge. She told him that, though his life had been sought, the angel of the Lord had guarded him, and if his trust was in Him no harm should befall him. After her remarks the Secretary rose and thanked her most profoundly, and told her that her gospel message was most grateful, and said that he needed the prayers of the people and that his trust was in God.
Sybil Jones went again by invitation to call on the President's widow. She was still in bed, much prostrated. The rooms were all lighted as in the days when their master paced through them with the weight of his mission pressing upon him. One lone sentinel guarded the mansion—a strange contrast to the past, when a strong guard was deemed necessary. The desolate lady gave them a sweet welcome, and told them some cheering incidents of her husband's lastdays. She said that several times during the last day he lived he said, "This is the happiest day of my life." He seemed to feel that the great work was done, and he rejoiced that the cloud which hung over his beloved America had lifted. Sybil Jones then spoke to her cheeringly of the sympathy of Jesus with the sorrowing sisters of Bethany—that in her boys she had a charge to keep for the King. After a season of feeling prayer they parted tenderly.
Stone Hospital, a beautiful home for the weary, suffering soldiers, was visited, and a wonderfully convicting season it proved. Sybil Jones was greatly saddened on a visit to the jail by its filthy appearance. Old and young were crowded in together, and the young in crime were by association with the vicious and degraded hastened in their downward course.
Feeling that she was called to labor in Alexandria, Sybil Jones went across the river to that place, and found a kind welcome at the temporary home of James P. Barlow, he, with his family, having fled from his own home on account of rebel persecution and confiscation. She had a meeting with the convalescents in the colored hospital, and had most interesting services in Slough Barracks. She also had a large meeting at the Soldiers' Rest, where she addressed thousands of soldiers, all orderly and attentive, while a tear might often be seen tracing down the bronzed cheeks. Wonderful changes were apparent in this place since the abolition of slavery. Slave-pens were appropriated to useful purposes. One was used as a court of justice, where traitors took the oath of allegiance to their country and to the government.
Sybil Jones then returned to Washington, and did what she could in the hospitals there, and then, feeling again the call to Alexandria, she returned to that place, and after more service owned and blessed by the Master she left this great field of labor and went once more to her children in Philadelphia, and thence to her own home.
On the 16th of 4th mo., in 1866, she again left her home, accompanied as far as Providence by her son Grelet, and bearing a certificate from her friends granting freedom for such service as she was called to perform. She attended meetings at Salem, Lynn, and Burlington, visiting prisons, hospitals, and reformatory institutions. She went to Richmond, Va., and attended the small meeting of Friends there, and with them praised the Lord for bringing them through the bloody rebellion and allowing them once more to assemble under the banner of peace. She attended many meetings here; had a meeting in a penitentiary, where the poor inmates had not heard the gospel sound for five years, since before the dreadful struggle. Many Bibles were distributed and families visited.
In a town near Richmond it was thought very doubtful if she could obtain a meeting, as the feeling against the North was so strong. When the Methodist minister was applied to, a young man present exclaimed, "That Quaker lady must have a meeting; she is the mother of my college classmate, Major Jones. She must have a meeting, and we will do our best to get the people out." The meeting was a large one and blessed, and the people expressed their thanks at the close.
After much loving service in the prisons and elsewhere, Sybil Jones went once more to Washington, holding meetings and doing all she could to "lift the skirts of darkness." She felt that she had another message to bear to the White House, where now, at the head of affairs of state, was the late President's successor, Andrew Johnson. She had a most touching interview with the President's daughter, the wife of Senator Patterson. They mingled their prayers and tears, and then Sybil Jones was presented to the President. He was surrounded by supplicants, mothers, advocates of right, and artful politicians. While waiting for audience the President's little granddaughter offered to her a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and, drawing her close, Sybil Jones spoke to her of the infinitely more beautiful flowers of heaven. The President courteously gave her permission to speak. She told him her message, and told him that it was in the name of the "King of kings." He thanked her seriously, and many were in tears. It was a most impressive scene.
After this, Sybil Jones returned to Maine, but she was not permitted long to enjoy the sweet associations in the home so dear to her. The impression seemed to gather force daily that she must once more cross the ocean. These words came to her often with great emphasis: "Get thee out of thy own country and from among thy own kindred to a land which I shall show thee." Once more she cast her burden upon the meeting, and found, as ever, the sweet sympathy and unity with her call to go forth that were ever accorded her. She was liberated for the servicethat she felt was hers to perform, and her "peace flowed like a river."
Before engaging in the work in Europe, Sybil Jones obtained a certificate from the monthly meeting to visit the prisons and penitentiaries in some of the Southern States. She visited most institutions of that character in many of the large Southern cities, bearing the news of life and salvation to the poor erring ones. Many tracts and Bibles were distributed and much work was done in the vineyard of the Lord. Once more she bore a message to President Johnson. She went to the White House on a reception day for the President's daughter, and passed in with the throng. On every side were seen the glory and parade of this world that will pass away, but, obtaining audience with the President and his daughter, she spoke to them of the pleasures that are eternal. The Lord helped her to declare the truth, and she went away trusting that it would not be "in vain in the Lord." Her whole soul was rejoiced to see the great change that had swept over the South since the shackles of slavery had been removed. Those who had been slaves now stood up men. She felt that there is indeed "a God who judgeth in the earth, and He only worketh wonders."