CHAPTER XIX.

BIRTH PLACE AT GROTON.BIRTH PLACE AT GROTON.

Several passages in Mr. Lawrence's letters will show the attachment which he felt towards the place of his birth, connected as it was with so many associations and memories of the past. The old house, with the great elm in front and its welcome shade; the green meadow, stretching for a mile along a gentle declivity to the river; the range of mountains in the west, just distant enough to afford that tinge of blue which adds an indescribable charm to every landscape; the graceful undulations of the hills on the east, with the quiet village sleeping at their base, all seemed in his mind so associated with the loved inmates of his early home, that he ever contemplated the picture with delight.

On June 4, in a letter to his sisters, he writes:

"R. leaves us this morning, on his way to the old homestead, which, to my mind's eye, has all the charms of the most lovely associations of early days, with all the real beauty of those splendid descriptions given by the prophets of the holy city. I would earnestly impress all my children with a deep sense of the beauty and benefit of cherishing and cultivating a respect and affectionfor this dear spot, and for those more dear objects that have served to make it what it really is to all us children."

In a letter to his son, whose visit is alluded to above, he says:

"The beautiful scenery from Gibbet Hill, in Groton, and from the road from our old mansion south for a mile, towards the Wachusett and the Monadnock Mountains, comes next, in point of beauty, to my taste, to these views around the Boston Common. Be careful to do all things as you will wish you had done, that you may look back upon this visit with pleasure, and forward to another visit with increased relish. Remember that in the best performance of all your duties lies the highest enjoyment of all your pleasures. Those pleasures that flow from plans and doings that your conscience condemns are to be shunned as the net of the wicked one. When once entangled, the desire and effort to be released grow weaker, till, at length, conscience is put asleep, and the sleep of death comes over the soul. Be careful, therefore, to avoid evil, and not only so, but to avoid all appearance of evil. In this way, you will grow up with principles and fixed habits that will secure you against the ills of life, and supply a foretaste of the enjoyments of a better life to come."

During a visit which he made to his early home a few months subsequent to the date of the preceding extract, he writes to his daughter:

"I was very tired on arriving here last evening, but a quiet sleep has brought me into my best state."This morning has allowed me to ride for two hours, and I have enjoyed everything and everybody here to the utmost.Groton is beautiful beyond any other place I have ever seen; but perhaps I am in the situation of old Mr. ——, whose opinion of his wife's beauty, when questioned of its accuracy, was justified by the declaration that the person must have his eyes to look through."The whole country is full of charms; nothing seems wanting to impress upon the heart the goodness of that Parent who seeks by all means to bring us nearer to himself."This visit has been full of interest, and it is a source of unfeigned thanksgiving that it has been permitted to me."

"I was very tired on arriving here last evening, but a quiet sleep has brought me into my best state.

"This morning has allowed me to ride for two hours, and I have enjoyed everything and everybody here to the utmost.Groton is beautiful beyond any other place I have ever seen; but perhaps I am in the situation of old Mr. ——, whose opinion of his wife's beauty, when questioned of its accuracy, was justified by the declaration that the person must have his eyes to look through.

"The whole country is full of charms; nothing seems wanting to impress upon the heart the goodness of that Parent who seeks by all means to bring us nearer to himself.

"This visit has been full of interest, and it is a source of unfeigned thanksgiving that it has been permitted to me."

Mr. Lawrence always took great delight in sending to friends and relatives, little and great, mementoes of his affection; and a great deal of time was spent in penning and reading the letters and notes which such transactions called forth. He had a rare faculty of adapting his gift to the peculiar necessities or tastes of the recipient; and, whether the matter treated of was a check for thousands or a bouquet of flowers, equal pleasure seemed to be given and received. In sending a gift of the former description, he notices the commencement of the year 1840 as follows:

"January 1."Dear S.: W. will prize the enclosed more highly from your hand; for he will have proof that a good wife brings many blessings, that he never would know the value of but for you. May you experience many returns of the 'new year,' and each more happy than the past!"

"January 1.

"Dear S.: W. will prize the enclosed more highly from your hand; for he will have proof that a good wife brings many blessings, that he never would know the value of but for you. May you experience many returns of the 'new year,' and each more happy than the past!"

In a letter to his second son, then on a visit to Europe, he writes, under date of March 5, 1840:

"We are all curious to know what impressions your visit to France and Italy produces, and still more what impressions a careful overlooking of our fatherland makes upon you. There is much food for reflection, and abundant material for the exercise of your powers of observation, in every league of the 'fast-anchored isle,' especially in the scenes so beautifully portrayed in many of the books we have access to. In fact, I have an extensive collection of materials to renew your travels and observations, and shall value them more highly when you point out this or that seat or castle or abbey, which has arrested your notice. But the best scenes will be those in which the living souls of the present day are engaged. The habits and tastes of the people of England have doubtless much changed since theSpectatordays; but, in many important particulars, I should hope they had not. Some thirty years ago, I had a good specimen of the feelings and principles of a great variety of people, embracing almost all classes, from the year 1774 to 1776, in a multitude of letters that had accumulated in the post-office in this town, under Tuthill Hubbart. After his death, his house was pulled down; and, among the strange things found in it, were bushels of letters, of which I was permitted to take what I pleased. These letters showed a deeper religious feeling in the writers of those days, from England, Ireland, and Scotland, than I have seen in any miscellaneous collections of a later date. If that deep-toned piety which pervaded them has not been extinguished by the Jacobinism and freethinking of later days, happy for the people and the government! But I fear it has, in some great measure, been blotted out or obscured, as there seems to be a spirit ofreckless adventure in politics and religion not contemplated seventy years ago. How far our experience in self-government in this country is going to advance the cause of good government, and the ultimate happiness of man, is yet a problem. Our principles are of the most elevating character; our practices under them, of the most debasing; and, if we continue in this way another generation, there will not be virtue enough in active use to save the forms of our government. We may hope that a better heart may be given us."

In a letter to his son-in-law, the Rev. Charles Mason, who was at that time in company with his own son on a visit to England, he writes on June 28th, 1840:

"I intended to defer writing until to-morrow morning; but the beauty of the western scenery and sunset is so striking, that I am strongly impelled to tell you that, much as you see, and highly as you enjoy the scenes of old England, there is nothing there more beautiful and sublime than this very scene from my chamber windows. It seems as though nature never was so beautifully dressed at this time of the year as at present. The season has been unusually favorable for the foliage, fruits, and flowers; and all around bears evidence of that goodness that never rests, and in my own person I feel that I am enjoying in a month what ought to content me for a year."

The foregoing extract is selected from among many others of a similar nature, as an illustration of Mr. Lawrence's appreciation of the beauties of natural scenery.

Towards the close of the day, his favorite seat was at a window, from which he could witness the glories of the setting sun, and, still later, the fading beauties of the twilight. Nature to him was no sealed volume; and with her, in all her phases, he loved to commune.

The gorgeous hues of the western sky, the changing tints of the autumnal foliage, and the smiling features of the landscape, were in his mind typical of the more resplendent beauties of the future world. He writes:

"To-day is one of those holy spring days which make us feel that, with right principles and conduct, we may enjoy a foretaste of that beautiful home we all long for. I have been over the Roxbury and Dorchester hills, which are a transcript of the beautiful scenery around Jerusalem. Mount Zion seemed before me, and by stretching my arms, I could almost fly upon its sides."

He loved to think that the spirits of the departed may be permitted to hover around, and minister to those whom they have once loved on earth; and sometimes, as he viewed nature in her softer moods, he would imagine himself as holding communion with former cherished objects of affection. He writes to a friend:

"Dear S. and R. speak in words without sounds, through every breeze and in every flower, and in the fragrance of every perfume from the field or the trees."

And again:

"Is there anything in Scripture to discourage the belief that the spirits of departed friends are still ministering spirits to such as are left here, and that a recognition and reünion will follow when we are called off? I believe fully in this happy reünion; and it is, next to the example of the beloved, the most animating feeling that prompts me through this wearisome journey."

To a friend who had invited him to pay her a visit at her residence in the country, he writes:

"N—— says I am like a child in the matter of the visit, and would be as much disappointed if it should not be accomplished; and I must admit that I am guilty of this weakness. There are so many loved ones on the old spot, so many lessons to be reviewed, and so many friends 'passed on,' whose spirits surround and fill the place with the peculiar halo and charm of the good angels (those ministering spirits in whose company we may ever find comfort, if we will think so). I say, with all these things, can I be blamed for being a child in this matter? You will all say No, and will love me the better for it."

On the anniversary of his commencing his business, Dec. 17, Mr. Lawrence, as usual, reviews his past life and mercies, and adds:

"My daily aspirations are for wisdom and integrity to do what is required of me; but the excuses for omissions, and the hidden promptings of pride or selfishness in the sins of commission, take away all confidence that all is done as it should be.I am in the enjoyment of as much as belongs to our condition here. Wife, children, and friends, those three little blessings that were spared to us after the fall, impart enjoyment that makes my home as near a heaven on earth as is allowed to mortals."Dec. 23.—This morning has been clear and beautiful, and I have enjoyed it highly. Have been sleigh-riding with Chancellor Kent. Went over to Bunker Hill Monument, and around by the river-side to Charlestown Neck, and had a regular old-fashioned talk with him. He gave me an account of the scenes which occurred where he was studying, in Connecticut, when the news came of the Lexington fight. As we parted, he promised to come again in the spring, take another ride, and resume the conversation. He leaves for New York at three o'clock, and is as bright and lively as a boy, though seventy-eight years old. The old gentleman attends to all his own affairs, had walked around the city this morning some miles, been to the Providence Railroad Dépôt for his ticket, overlooked divers bookstores, and so forth. He is very interesting, and has all the simplicity of a child."

"Dec. 23.—This morning has been clear and beautiful, and I have enjoyed it highly. Have been sleigh-riding with Chancellor Kent. Went over to Bunker Hill Monument, and around by the river-side to Charlestown Neck, and had a regular old-fashioned talk with him. He gave me an account of the scenes which occurred where he was studying, in Connecticut, when the news came of the Lexington fight. As we parted, he promised to come again in the spring, take another ride, and resume the conversation. He leaves for New York at three o'clock, and is as bright and lively as a boy, though seventy-eight years old. The old gentleman attends to all his own affairs, had walked around the city this morning some miles, been to the Providence Railroad Dépôt for his ticket, overlooked divers bookstores, and so forth. He is very interesting, and has all the simplicity of a child."

About this time, also, Mr. Lawrence seems to have had pleasant intercourse with the Chevalier Hulsemann, the Austrian Minister, so well known by his correspondence with Mr. Webster when the latter was Secretary of State. The minister was on a visit to Boston, and, from the correspondence which ensued, seems to have conceived a high regard for Mr. Lawrence, expressed in very kind and courteous terms; and this regard seems to have been fully reciprocated.

"April 1, 1841.—S. N., of T., an apprentice on board the United States ship 'Columbus,' in this harbor, thirteen years old, whom I picked up intoxicated in Beacon-street a month ago, and to whom I gave some books, with request to call and see me when on shore, came to-day, and appears very well. Gave him a Testament and some good counsel."June 6.—G. M. called to sell a lot of sermons called the ——, which he said he caused to be published to do good; he repeated it so often that I doubted him. He seems to me awooden nutmegfellow, although he has the Rev. Mr. ——'s certificate."

"June 6.—G. M. called to sell a lot of sermons called the ——, which he said he caused to be published to do good; he repeated it so often that I doubted him. He seems to me awooden nutmegfellow, although he has the Rev. Mr. ——'s certificate."

The preceding entry is given here merely as a sample of many such which are found in Mr. Lawrence's diary. Few who have not had the like experience can estimate the annoyance to which his reputation for benevolence and well-doing subjected him, in the shape of applications for aid in every imaginable form. His perceptions were naturally acute; and a long experience and intercourse with men enabled him to form, at a single glance, a pretty fair estimate of the merits of the applicant. He may sometimes have judged precipitately, and perhaps harshly; but, when he discovered that he had done so, no one could have been more ready to confess his fault and make reparation. A few years after this time, the annoyance became so serious, from the number and character of the applicants, that he felt obliged, on account of ill-health, to deny himself to all, unless personally known to him, or accredited by some onein whose statement he had confidence. Further than this, he was confirmed in his decision by actual abuse which had occasionally been administered to him by disappointed candidates for charitable aid. He kept upon his table a small memorandum-book, in which he recorded the names of those who sought aid, with their business, and often their age, the age and number of their children, sometimes facts in their past history, and any other information which could enable him to form an opinion of their claim upon him for assistance. He sometimes indulges also in somewhat quaint remarks respecting those who apply, or the manner in which they have presented their application.

To the Rev. Robert Turnbull, a Baptist clergyman then settled in Boston, and who had sent to Mr. Lawrence a copy of his work entitled "Claims of Jesus," he writes under date of Nov. 2:

"Rev. and dear Sir: I thank you for the little volume so kindly presented, and deem it the duty of all the friends of the Saviour to do what they can to stop the flood of infidelity and atheism that threatens such waste and devastation among us. However we may seem to be, I trust many may be found, in the ranks of my Unitarian friends, who admit the 'claims of Jesus' in their most elevated character, and who repudiate the doctrine of those who sink him to the level of a mere human teacher, as subversive of his authority and as nullifying his teachings. We take the record, and what is clearly declared; we do not go behind, even though we do not clearly comprehend it. It givesme pleasure to learn you are so well recovered from the injury you received from the overturn of your carriage near my house."With great respect, believe me truly yours,A. L.""January, 1842.—This year opens with renewed calls upon me to bless God for his mercies throughout its course. My family circle has not been broken by the death of any one of our whole number, and my own health has been better for the last half-year than for five years before. I have not had occasion to call a physician through the year. My brothers A. and W. have been dangerously sick, but are happily recovered; and both feel, I believe, that their hold on life is not as firm as they have felt it to be in former years. My dear children are growing up around me to bless and comfort me; and all I need is a right understanding of my duties, and a sincere purpose to fulfil them. I hope to have the will to continue them in as faithful a manner as heretofore, to say the least."

"With great respect, believe me truly yours,

A. L."

"January, 1842.—This year opens with renewed calls upon me to bless God for his mercies throughout its course. My family circle has not been broken by the death of any one of our whole number, and my own health has been better for the last half-year than for five years before. I have not had occasion to call a physician through the year. My brothers A. and W. have been dangerously sick, but are happily recovered; and both feel, I believe, that their hold on life is not as firm as they have felt it to be in former years. My dear children are growing up around me to bless and comfort me; and all I need is a right understanding of my duties, and a sincere purpose to fulfil them. I hope to have the will to continue them in as faithful a manner as heretofore, to say the least."

Among the traits in Mr. Lawrence's character was that enlarged spirit of Christian feeling which enabled him to appreciate goodness in others, without reference to sect or denomination. This spirit of universal brotherhood was not in him a matter of mere theory, but was carried out in the practice of daily life, and was the means of cementing many and lasting friendships, especially among the clergy of various denominations around him. It may not be uninteresting in future years, for those now in childhood, for whom this volume has been prepared, to be reminded of the strong feeling of sympathy and affection which their grandfatherentertained for the Rev. John S. Stone, D.D., once the Rector of St. Paul's Church, in Boston, and now the Rector of St. Paul's, in Brookline, Mass. The following is an extract from a letter written by that gentleman from Brooklyn, N. Y., daring the year 1842, with a memorandum endorsed by Mr. Lawrence, dated October, 1847, in which he says:

"This letter was very interesting to me when received. I kept it in my pocket-book with one from Judge Story, which he had requested me to keep for my children. While son —— was in Europe, I did not expect to live but a short time, and sent him the two letters, as the proper person to keep them for the use of his children."

The letter commences by strong expressions of affection and regard, over which Mr. Lawrence's modesty had induced him to paste a slip of paper, endorsed as follows: "Personal matters between the writer and myself, covered up here, and not to be read by any of the friends to whom I may show this letter." The letter continues as follows:

"Shall I ever forget the happy moments, hours, days, I may say weeks, which I have spent in riding with you, and chatting, as we rode, of all things as we passed them, till I seemed to myself to be living in the by-gone days of Boston and its neighborhood; and all its old families, houses, names, and anecdotes, became as familiar to my mind as the stories of my boyhood? Can I forget it all? I trow not. These things are all blendedin with the beautiful scenery through which we used to ride, and associated with those graver lessons and reflections which you used to give me; insomuch that the picture which my memory retains of nature, society, history, and feeling, truth, friendship, and religion, and in which Boston and the living friends there are comprehended, has become imperishable. It never can fade out of my mind. It is a picture in which man has done much, friendship more, religion most, and God all; for religion is his, and friendship is from him, and man is his creature, and the green earth and glorious heavens are his home. There are many, very many, objects in this picture, which I contemplate with special delight; and few which give me pain, or which I would not have had there, had the whole ordering of its composition been left to me. Indeed, had this whole ordering been left to me, it may well be doubted whether, as a whole, it would have contained half of the beautiful and blessed things which it now contains. Taking it as it is, therefore, I am well content to receive it, hang it up in the choicest apartment of my memory, and keep it clean and in good order for use." * * *

As an illustration of the pleasant intercourse alluded to above, among Mr. Lawrence's papers is found another most friendly letter from the Rev. Henry Ware, jun., dated a few days afterwards, with the following endorsement:

"I went on Friday to Mr. Ware's house, and had a free, full, and deeply-interesting conversation upon the appointment of his successor; and was delighted to find him with the same views I have upon the necessity of removing the theological department from Cambridge."

Dec. 2, Mr. Lawrence alludes to the probability of his own death taking place in the manner in which it actually occurred ten years afterwards, as follows:

"Yesterday I was very well, and have been so for some time past. Experienced a severe ill turn this morning at five o'clock, more so than for years. This check brings me back to the reflection that, when I feel the best, I am most likely to experience one of my ill turns; some one of which will probably end my journey in this life. God grant me due preparation for the next!"

In the memorandum-book of property for 1843 is found the usual estimate and list of expenditures; after which Mr. Lawrence writes as follows:

"My outlay for other objects than my own family, for the last fourteen years, has been —— dollars, which sum I esteem better invested than if in bond and mortgage in the city; and I have reason to believe many have been comforted and assisted by it, and its influence will be good on those who follow me. God grant me grace to be faithful to my trust!"

To Hon. R. C. Winthrop, Member of Congress, at Washington, enclosing a letter from a young colored man:

"Boston, Feb. 15, 1843."Dear Sir: This young man, as you will observe by his style, is well educated; and the circumstances he states, I have no doubt, are true. He applied to me, about two years since, for employment in writing or other business, to obtain means for further education; and I interested myself to secure to him what was required. A few months since, he started from here to go to Jamaica, to commence the practice of law, and was supplied bythose who had taken an interest in him with a library suited to his wants. He received his early education in Indiana; and his parents were once slaves. He is a handsome colored fellow, better-mannered, better-looking, and more to be respected, than many young gentlemen who move in the higher walks of life, either in Carolina or Massachusetts. Now, I should like to know, if he should be admitted as an attorney to practice in our courts, and should take passage for Jamaica, and put into Charleston, would he be imprisoned, as is now the practice in regard to our black sailors? I feel a much stronger desire to see your report upon this subject of imprisoning our colored people, after the unfair course taken by the majority of your house to smother it; and I hope still to see it in print before the adjournment. I would further remark, that N. T. is a member of Grace Church in this city, I believe, under the care of Rev. T. M. Clark; and would, doubtless, bear affliction, if it should ever be his fortune to be afflicted by being imprisoned because his skin is dark, with a spirit becoming his profession. With great respect and esteem, believe me very truly yours,Amos Lawrence."

"Boston, Feb. 15, 1843.

"Dear Sir: This young man, as you will observe by his style, is well educated; and the circumstances he states, I have no doubt, are true. He applied to me, about two years since, for employment in writing or other business, to obtain means for further education; and I interested myself to secure to him what was required. A few months since, he started from here to go to Jamaica, to commence the practice of law, and was supplied bythose who had taken an interest in him with a library suited to his wants. He received his early education in Indiana; and his parents were once slaves. He is a handsome colored fellow, better-mannered, better-looking, and more to be respected, than many young gentlemen who move in the higher walks of life, either in Carolina or Massachusetts. Now, I should like to know, if he should be admitted as an attorney to practice in our courts, and should take passage for Jamaica, and put into Charleston, would he be imprisoned, as is now the practice in regard to our black sailors? I feel a much stronger desire to see your report upon this subject of imprisoning our colored people, after the unfair course taken by the majority of your house to smother it; and I hope still to see it in print before the adjournment. I would further remark, that N. T. is a member of Grace Church in this city, I believe, under the care of Rev. T. M. Clark; and would, doubtless, bear affliction, if it should ever be his fortune to be afflicted by being imprisoned because his skin is dark, with a spirit becoming his profession. With great respect and esteem, believe me very truly yours,

Amos Lawrence."

(TO HIS SISTER.)"Boston, April 19, 1843."Dear Sister M.: When I heard a gun this morning, I was immediately transported back in imagination to the 19th of April, 1775, when our grandmother retreated from her house on the roadside in Concord, with her family, to keep out of the way of the 'regulars;' and that day and its scenes, as described, came back upon me with a force which kept me awake in considering whether the gun was fired to recall the facts to the people of this day; and, if recalled, whether we can profit by the events which followed. I found, however, on receiving my newspapers, that the gun was not for commemoration of Lexington and Concord, butto announce the arrival of the British steamer from Liverpool. The news by this steamer is of no more than common interest; and the intercourse is now so easy and rapid, that the interest felt to learn what is passing in Europe is not much greater than we used to feel on Call's stage-coach arriving at Groton from Boston once a week, fifty years ago. The changes within my own recollection are such as almost to make me distrust my own senses; and many of the changes are at the cost of much good. The downhill tendency in the standard of character is a bad sign, and threatens the prostration of our political fabric. Built as it is on the virtue and intelligence of the people, every waste of these endangers the stability of the whole structure.""April 24.—I resume, though not in the same train of thought, which is slept off. My birth-day has passed since then; and I am now in my fifty-eighth year. This is the birth-day of our father, who would have been eighty-nine if living; and this week on Saturday will also complete thirty-six years since I left home to spend a few months in this city, preparatory to my commencing business in Groton. Here I have continued; and the consequences to our family seem to have stamped upon us such marks as make us objects of influence, for good or evil, to a much greater extent than if I had returned to commence my business career in my native town. I view in this a hand pointing upward,—'Seek me and ye shall find,'—and a caution to us to use without abusing the good things intrusted to us. How hard it is for those in prosperity to bring home to their feelings their dependence, their abuse of their privileges, their desires for objects wholly disproportionate to their value, their anxiety about trifles, while they are so utterly careless and indifferent about those of the highest moment! How we strive unceasingly to secure objects that can, at best, give us but a slight reward, and, in many cases,if attained to the full extent of our hopes, only serve to sharpen our appetite for more; thus demonstrating the benevolence of our heavenly Father in removing these obstacles to our progress in the ways and works of godliness! How important, then, for us to see a Father's hand in the disappointments, not less than in the success, of our plans! I now speak practically of those anxieties which I feel and condemn myself for, in looking forward to the condition of my family. This is all wrong; and I pray God to pardon me the want of faith this feeling implies."I have thought much of your account of Mrs. N. going out, on the Sabbath after her husband's death, with her nine children. I remember her, and many others of my youthful schoolmates, with interest and regard. Please say so to her. And now, dear M., as the clouds seem thinner, I may hope to secure a little run, and shall take the post-office in my way; so must bid you adieu."

(TO HIS SISTER.)

"Boston, April 19, 1843.

"Dear Sister M.: When I heard a gun this morning, I was immediately transported back in imagination to the 19th of April, 1775, when our grandmother retreated from her house on the roadside in Concord, with her family, to keep out of the way of the 'regulars;' and that day and its scenes, as described, came back upon me with a force which kept me awake in considering whether the gun was fired to recall the facts to the people of this day; and, if recalled, whether we can profit by the events which followed. I found, however, on receiving my newspapers, that the gun was not for commemoration of Lexington and Concord, butto announce the arrival of the British steamer from Liverpool. The news by this steamer is of no more than common interest; and the intercourse is now so easy and rapid, that the interest felt to learn what is passing in Europe is not much greater than we used to feel on Call's stage-coach arriving at Groton from Boston once a week, fifty years ago. The changes within my own recollection are such as almost to make me distrust my own senses; and many of the changes are at the cost of much good. The downhill tendency in the standard of character is a bad sign, and threatens the prostration of our political fabric. Built as it is on the virtue and intelligence of the people, every waste of these endangers the stability of the whole structure."

"April 24.—I resume, though not in the same train of thought, which is slept off. My birth-day has passed since then; and I am now in my fifty-eighth year. This is the birth-day of our father, who would have been eighty-nine if living; and this week on Saturday will also complete thirty-six years since I left home to spend a few months in this city, preparatory to my commencing business in Groton. Here I have continued; and the consequences to our family seem to have stamped upon us such marks as make us objects of influence, for good or evil, to a much greater extent than if I had returned to commence my business career in my native town. I view in this a hand pointing upward,—'Seek me and ye shall find,'—and a caution to us to use without abusing the good things intrusted to us. How hard it is for those in prosperity to bring home to their feelings their dependence, their abuse of their privileges, their desires for objects wholly disproportionate to their value, their anxiety about trifles, while they are so utterly careless and indifferent about those of the highest moment! How we strive unceasingly to secure objects that can, at best, give us but a slight reward, and, in many cases,if attained to the full extent of our hopes, only serve to sharpen our appetite for more; thus demonstrating the benevolence of our heavenly Father in removing these obstacles to our progress in the ways and works of godliness! How important, then, for us to see a Father's hand in the disappointments, not less than in the success, of our plans! I now speak practically of those anxieties which I feel and condemn myself for, in looking forward to the condition of my family. This is all wrong; and I pray God to pardon me the want of faith this feeling implies.

"I have thought much of your account of Mrs. N. going out, on the Sabbath after her husband's death, with her nine children. I remember her, and many others of my youthful schoolmates, with interest and regard. Please say so to her. And now, dear M., as the clouds seem thinner, I may hope to secure a little run, and shall take the post-office in my way; so must bid you adieu."

(TO GENERAL——.)"May 5, 1843."My dear old General: Our anticipated drive to-day is not to be: the weather settles it that I must keep house; and, to indemnify myself for the disappointment, will you allow me to feel that I have not gone too far in requesting you to receive the enclosed check? I am spared here for some object, and do not feel that to hoard money is that object. While I am in the receipt of an income so ample, I find it sometimes troublesome to invest exactly to my mind. In the present case, the hope that you may, by using this, add something to your enjoyment, makes me feel that it is one of my best investments; and for the reason that your proverbial good-will cannot refuse me such a boon, I have made this request. My heart yearns strongly toward the old-fashioned John Jay school in politics and morals; and, when Ihave an opportunity to minister in any way to one of the early members, it is a pleasure that sweetens my days as they pass."

(TO GENERAL——.)

"May 5, 1843.

"My dear old General: Our anticipated drive to-day is not to be: the weather settles it that I must keep house; and, to indemnify myself for the disappointment, will you allow me to feel that I have not gone too far in requesting you to receive the enclosed check? I am spared here for some object, and do not feel that to hoard money is that object. While I am in the receipt of an income so ample, I find it sometimes troublesome to invest exactly to my mind. In the present case, the hope that you may, by using this, add something to your enjoyment, makes me feel that it is one of my best investments; and for the reason that your proverbial good-will cannot refuse me such a boon, I have made this request. My heart yearns strongly toward the old-fashioned John Jay school in politics and morals; and, when Ihave an opportunity to minister in any way to one of the early members, it is a pleasure that sweetens my days as they pass."

On the letter written in reply to the above, Mr. Lawrence has endorsed:

"This letter from old General ——, now eighty-eight years old, and blind, is an acknowledgment of some little kindnesses I was enabled to render through the hand of Judge Story. It has afforded me more pleasure than it could have done either the Judge or the General. I am sure the good old man's feelings were gratified; and I am thankful that I could comfort him."

On the 17th of June, 1843, took place the celebration in honor of the completion of the Bunker Hill Monument; an event which was regarded with no ordinary emotions by Mr. Lawrence, after so many years of effort and expectation. His only regret was that the whole battle-field could not have been preserved, and have remained, to use his own words, "a field-preacher for posterity." Eleven years before this, he had written to his son in Europe:

"If we be true to ourselves, our city is destined to be the Athens of America, and the hallowed spots in our neighborhood to be the objects of interest throughout all future time. In this view, I would never permit a foot of the battle-field of Bunker Hill to be alienated; but keep it for your great-great-grandchildren, as a legacy of patriotism worth more than their portion of it, if covered with gold by measure. Until you are older, I do not expect you to feel as I do on this subject."

This would seem to be the proper place to mention a few facts in regard to Mr. Lawrence's agency in securing the completion of the monument. It has already been mentioned that he was one of the earliest friends of the project to erect a monument, and, in 1825, had been placed upon the Standing Committee of Directors, with full powers to manage the affairs of the Association. In September, 1831, in a letter to his friend, Dr. J. C. Warren, who himself had been one of the warmest and most efficient advocates of the measure, he proposed to subscribe five thousand dollars, on condition that fifty thousand dollars should be raised within one year. The following passage occurs in that letter:

"I think it inexpedient to allude to the sale of the land on Bunker Hill, as a resource for paying the debt, except in case of extreme necessity; and, at this time, I should personally sooner vote to sell ten acres of the Common, in front of my house, to pay the city debt (of Boston), than vote to sell the ten acres on Bunker Hill, until it shall appear that our citizens will not contribute the means of saving it."

The proposition thus made was not responded to by the public.[6]As early as December, 1830, he had made provision by his will, in case of his own death,to secure the battle-field, liquidate the debts of the corporation, and complete the monument. These provisions were superseded by another will, executed April 1, 1833, after his health had failed, so as to forbid active participation in affairs. An extract from this document will show the views of the testator:

"I am of opinion that the land owned by the Bunker Hill Monument Association, in Charlestown, will be of great value to posterity, if left as public ground. The spot is the most interesting in the country; and it seems to me it is calculated to impress the feelings of those who come after us with gratitude to the people of this generation, if we preserve it to them. The whole field contains about fifteen acres; and, in the hope of preserving it entire, either as the property of the State, of this city, or of any other competent body, and with the further view of insuring the completion of the monument, which now stands as a reproach to us, I have set apart a larger share of my property than would be necessary, had not the subject been presented to the public in such a manner as to discourage future attempts at raising the necessary funds by voluntary contribution."

The amount thus devised for the monument, in case that amount should not be raised in other ways, was fifty thousand dollars. In June, 1832, before the annual meeting of the Bunker Hill Monument Association, the same offer of five thousand dollars, as first named, was renewed, with an urgent appeal for the preservation of the land, and completion of the monument. A movement followed this appeal, but was notsuccessful. In April, 1833, Mr. Lawrence proposed to the Massachusetts Charitable Mechanic Association to attempt the raising of fifty thousand dollars, to be secured within three months, for completing the monument and preserving the field; accompanying the proposition was an offer of five thousand dollars, or ten per cent. on any less sum that might be raised, as a donation to the Association. A public meeting was held in Faneuil Hall in response to this proposition, at which Hon. Edward Everett made a most powerful appeal, which produced so great an effect upon his auditors that the object was considered as accomplished. The effort was again unsuccessful. Early in 1839, Mr. Lawrence addressed a letter to George Darracott, Esq., President of the Mechanic Association, in which, after expressing regret that his feeble and precarious health would not permit him to make personal application to the citizens of Boston, he adds:

"The next best thing I can do is to give money. The Monument Association owes a debt. To discharge the debt, finish the monument, surround it with a handsome iron fence, and otherwise ornament the ground as it deserves, will require forty thousand dollars more than it now has. If the Association will collect thirty thousand dollars the present year, and pay off the debt, I will give to the Charitable Mechanic Association ten thousand dollars to enable it to complete the work in a manner which our fathers would have done, had they been here to direct it."

A further donation of ten thousand dollars was made by Judah Touro, Esq., of New Orleans; five thousand dollars were received from other sources; and this, with thirty thousand dollars received at the great fair held in Quincy Hall, September, 1840, afforded the means of completing the monument according to the original design. Thus was consummated a work which had been very near to Mr. Lawrence's heart, and which had cost him many a sleepless night, as well as days of toil and perplexity. To his associates in this work too much credit cannot be awarded, discouraged, as they often were, by indifference, and even censure. Their names will be handed down for centuries, in connection with a monument, which, while it commemorates a nation's freedom, teaches also a practical lesson of the perseverance and energy of man.

The following is an extract from a newspaper published about the time the monument was completed, giving an account of a festival held in commemoration of the event:

"The president remarked, that, among the benefactors to whom the Association had been particularly indebted for the means of completing the monument, two, whose names were written on a scroll at the other end of the hall, were Amos Lawrence and Judah Touro, each of whom had made a donation of ten thousand dollars. He thought it proper they should be remembered at the festive board, and gave the following:

"Amos and Judah! venerated names!Patriarch and prophet press their equal claims;Like generous coursers, running neck and neck,Each aids the work by giving it a check.Christian and Jew, they carry out a plan;For, though of different faith, each is in heart a man."

"Amos and Judah! venerated names!

Patriarch and prophet press their equal claims;

Like generous coursers, running neck and neck,

Each aids the work by giving it a check.

Christian and Jew, they carry out a plan;

For, though of different faith, each is in heart a man."

After the establishment of the cemetery at Mount Auburn, Mr. Lawrence had taken a deep interest in its progress, as well as in every plan for its gradual improvement and embellishment. In connection with his brothers, he had purchased a large space, which had been enclosed by a permanent granite wall and iron railing. To this spot he habitually resorted, containing, as it did, the remains of some of the dearest earthly objects of his affection, and destined, as it was, to be the final resting-place of not only himself, but of the various branches of his family. When this enclosure had been finished, it became an object with him to gather around him in death those whom he had loved and honored in life. In this way, he had been instrumental in causing to be removed to a burial-lot adjoining his own the remains of the Rev. J. S. Buckminster, the former minister of Brattle-street Church; and had also presented another lot to his friend and pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lothrop. Another friend, whose grave he wished to have near his own,was the Rev. Daniel Sharp, D.D., minister of the Charles-street Baptist Church, in Boston. There were few in Boston who were not familiar with the appearance of this venerable clergyman, as he daily appeared in the streets; and fewer still who had not learned to appreciate the truly catholic and Christian spirit which animated him in his intercourse with men of all sects and parties. Mr. Lawrence had early entertained a great esteem for his character; and this esteem had become mutual, and had ripened into the closest intimacy and friendship. On receiving a deed of a lot at Mount Auburn, Dr. Sharp writes as follows:

"Boston, August 23, 1843."My dear Sir: I cannot find words with which to express my sense of your unexpected and considerate kindness, in providing so beautiful a resting-place in Mount Auburn for me and my loved ones. It is soothing to me to anticipate that my grave will be so near your own. May the Almighty, in his infinite mercy, grant, that, when the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall awake, we may both rise together, to be forever with the Lord! If the proximity of my last place of repose to ministers of another denomination shall teach candor, charity, and peace, I enjoy the sweet consciousness that this will be in harmony with the object of my life.Yours, gratefully,"Daniel Sharp."Amos Lawrence, Esq."

"Boston, August 23, 1843.

"My dear Sir: I cannot find words with which to express my sense of your unexpected and considerate kindness, in providing so beautiful a resting-place in Mount Auburn for me and my loved ones. It is soothing to me to anticipate that my grave will be so near your own. May the Almighty, in his infinite mercy, grant, that, when the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall awake, we may both rise together, to be forever with the Lord! If the proximity of my last place of repose to ministers of another denomination shall teach candor, charity, and peace, I enjoy the sweet consciousness that this will be in harmony with the object of my life.

Yours, gratefully,"Daniel Sharp.

"Amos Lawrence, Esq."

The enlarged Christian spirit which formed so prominent a trait in Mr. Lawrence's character, and whichenabled him to appreciate goodness wherever it could be found, without reference to nation, sect, or color, may be further illustrated by the following note of acknowledgment, received about the same time with the preceding, from Bishop McIlvaine, of the Protestant Episcopal Church in Ohio, who was then on a visit to Boston to procure funds in aid of Kenyon College:

"Wednesday evening."My dear Sir: I have just received your very kind and grateful letter, with its cheering enclosure of a hundred dollars towards an object which engrosses me much just now. Thank you, dear sir, most truly, for your kindness, and thefirst fruitsof Boston, for I came only to-day. I trust the ingathering will not dispossess the first ripe sheaf. Coming from one not of my own church, it is the more kind and grateful. O, sir! if God shall so bless my present effort as to send me home with the sum I seek, I shall know a freedom of mind from care and anxiety such as I have not experienced for many years, during which our present crisis has been anticipated. I shall have great pleasure in riding with you, according to your note to Mr. R. To-morrow will probably be a day of more leisure to me than any other while I shall be in Boston."Yours, very truly and respectfully,"Charles P. McIlvaine."

"Wednesday evening.

"My dear Sir: I have just received your very kind and grateful letter, with its cheering enclosure of a hundred dollars towards an object which engrosses me much just now. Thank you, dear sir, most truly, for your kindness, and thefirst fruitsof Boston, for I came only to-day. I trust the ingathering will not dispossess the first ripe sheaf. Coming from one not of my own church, it is the more kind and grateful. O, sir! if God shall so bless my present effort as to send me home with the sum I seek, I shall know a freedom of mind from care and anxiety such as I have not experienced for many years, during which our present crisis has been anticipated. I shall have great pleasure in riding with you, according to your note to Mr. R. To-morrow will probably be a day of more leisure to me than any other while I shall be in Boston.

"Yours, very truly and respectfully,"Charles P. McIlvaine."

(TO ONE OF HIS PARTNERS.)"December 18, 1843."Dear Mr. Parker: I ampuffed up(with ague), but not in a manner to gratify my pride, as I am housed, and denied the sight of most of those who call, but not the privilege of readingtheir papers, and spending money. In short, I have more use for money when in the house than when able to be abroad. If you will tell Brother Sharp[7]his beautiful bills find an exceedingly ready use, I shall be glad of one hundred in ones and twos, two hundred in fives, and three hundred in tens and twenties; say six hundred dollars, just to keep me along till the end of the month. The calls are frequent and striking. 'Do with thy might what thy hand findeth to do; for the night cometh, when no man can work.' God grant me the blessing of being ready to answer the call, whether it be at noon or at midnight!"

(TO ONE OF HIS PARTNERS.)

"December 18, 1843.

"Dear Mr. Parker: I ampuffed up(with ague), but not in a manner to gratify my pride, as I am housed, and denied the sight of most of those who call, but not the privilege of readingtheir papers, and spending money. In short, I have more use for money when in the house than when able to be abroad. If you will tell Brother Sharp[7]his beautiful bills find an exceedingly ready use, I shall be glad of one hundred in ones and twos, two hundred in fives, and three hundred in tens and twenties; say six hundred dollars, just to keep me along till the end of the month. The calls are frequent and striking. 'Do with thy might what thy hand findeth to do; for the night cometh, when no man can work.' God grant me the blessing of being ready to answer the call, whether it be at noon or at midnight!"

Twelve days after, he writes to the same gentleman for another supply; the sum already received not having been sufficient apparently to carry him through the year:

"December 30, 1843."'The good there is in riches lieth altogether in their use, like the woman's box of ointment; if it be not broken and the contents poured out for the refreshment of Jesus Christ, in his distressed members, they lose their worth; the covetous man may therefore truly write upon his rusting heaps, "These are good for nothing." He is not rich who lays up much, but he who lays out much; for it is all one not to have, as not to use. I will therefore be the richer by charitable laying out, while the worldling will be poorer by his covetous hoarding up.'"Here is the embodiment of a volume, and whoever wrote it deserves the thanks of good men. I would fain be rich, according as he defines riches; butpossession, possession, is the devil, as the old Frenchman at —— said to George Cabot. This devilI would try to cast out; you will therefore please send me twelve hundred dollars, which may do something for the comfort of those who have seen better days.Your friend,A. L."To C. H. Parker, Esq."

"December 30, 1843.

"'The good there is in riches lieth altogether in their use, like the woman's box of ointment; if it be not broken and the contents poured out for the refreshment of Jesus Christ, in his distressed members, they lose their worth; the covetous man may therefore truly write upon his rusting heaps, "These are good for nothing." He is not rich who lays up much, but he who lays out much; for it is all one not to have, as not to use. I will therefore be the richer by charitable laying out, while the worldling will be poorer by his covetous hoarding up.'

"Here is the embodiment of a volume, and whoever wrote it deserves the thanks of good men. I would fain be rich, according as he defines riches; butpossession, possession, is the devil, as the old Frenchman at —— said to George Cabot. This devilI would try to cast out; you will therefore please send me twelve hundred dollars, which may do something for the comfort of those who have seen better days.

Your friend,A. L.

"To C. H. Parker, Esq."

The following letter from Judge Story was received at about the time the preceding letter was written; but no memorandum is found by which to ascertain the occasion which called it forth. It may be that he had been made the channel, as was the case a few months before, of some donation to a third person; a mode which Mr. Lawrence often adopted when he felt a delicacy in proffering direct aid to some one whose sensitiveness might be wounded in receiving assistance from a comparative stranger:

"Cambridge, Saturday noon."My dear Sir: I have this moment finished reading your letter and its enclosures, which did not reach me until this noon, and I can scarcely describe to you how deeply I have been affected by them. I almost feel that you are too much oppressed by the constant calls for charitable purposes, and that your liberal and conscientious spirit is tasked to its utmost extent. 'The poor have ye always with you' is a Christian truth; and I know not, in the whole circle of my friends, any one who realizes it so fully, and acts upon it so nobly, as yourself. God, my dear sir, will reward you for all your goodness; man never can. And yet the gratitude of the many whom you relieve, their prayers for your happiness, their consciousness of your expanded benevolence, is of itself a treasure of inestimable value. It is a source of consolation, which you would not exchange for any earthly boon ofequal value. Wealth is to you an enlightened trust, for the benefit of your race. You administer it so gracefully, as well as so justly, that I can only regret that your means are not ten times as great. Gracious Heavens! What a contrast is your life to that of some wealthy men, who have lived many years, and have yet to learn how to give, or, as you beautifully expressed it the other day, who have yet to learn to be their own executors! My heart is so full of you, and of the whole matter, that I would fain pour out my thoughts at large to you; for you understandme, and I can sympathize withyou. But just now I am full of all sorts of business, and without a moment to spare, having many judicial opinions to prepare in the few remaining days before I go to Washington; and, withal, having Mrs. S. very ill, in respect to whom I feel a deep anxiety. But, wherever I am, I pray you to believe that you are always in my thoughts, with the warmest affection and dearest remembrance. And, if this hasty scrawl is not too slight for such a matter, pray preserve it among your papers, that your children may know what I thought of their father, when you and I shall be both in our graves."I am most truly and faithfully your obliged friend,"Joseph Story."Amos Lawrence, Esq."P. S.—I have sent the letter and its accompaniments to Mr. ——. Think of ——. Think of those rich men in ——, who have never dreamed of the duties of charity. Cast a view to their own posterity. How striking a memento is the very case of ——, presented in his own letters, of the instability of human fortune!"

"Cambridge, Saturday noon.

"My dear Sir: I have this moment finished reading your letter and its enclosures, which did not reach me until this noon, and I can scarcely describe to you how deeply I have been affected by them. I almost feel that you are too much oppressed by the constant calls for charitable purposes, and that your liberal and conscientious spirit is tasked to its utmost extent. 'The poor have ye always with you' is a Christian truth; and I know not, in the whole circle of my friends, any one who realizes it so fully, and acts upon it so nobly, as yourself. God, my dear sir, will reward you for all your goodness; man never can. And yet the gratitude of the many whom you relieve, their prayers for your happiness, their consciousness of your expanded benevolence, is of itself a treasure of inestimable value. It is a source of consolation, which you would not exchange for any earthly boon ofequal value. Wealth is to you an enlightened trust, for the benefit of your race. You administer it so gracefully, as well as so justly, that I can only regret that your means are not ten times as great. Gracious Heavens! What a contrast is your life to that of some wealthy men, who have lived many years, and have yet to learn how to give, or, as you beautifully expressed it the other day, who have yet to learn to be their own executors! My heart is so full of you, and of the whole matter, that I would fain pour out my thoughts at large to you; for you understandme, and I can sympathize withyou. But just now I am full of all sorts of business, and without a moment to spare, having many judicial opinions to prepare in the few remaining days before I go to Washington; and, withal, having Mrs. S. very ill, in respect to whom I feel a deep anxiety. But, wherever I am, I pray you to believe that you are always in my thoughts, with the warmest affection and dearest remembrance. And, if this hasty scrawl is not too slight for such a matter, pray preserve it among your papers, that your children may know what I thought of their father, when you and I shall be both in our graves.

"I am most truly and faithfully your obliged friend,"Joseph Story.

"Amos Lawrence, Esq.

"P. S.—I have sent the letter and its accompaniments to Mr. ——. Think of ——. Think of those rich men in ——, who have never dreamed of the duties of charity. Cast a view to their own posterity. How striking a memento is the very case of ——, presented in his own letters, of the instability of human fortune!"

Mr. Lawrence closes the year 1843 by a review of his temporal affairs, and by fresh resolutions of fidelityto his trusts. He then gives an estimate of his income and expenditures, showing a somewhat large excess of the latter, though, as he says, from the state of the times, not to the detriment of his property.

(TO THE MECHANIC APPRENTICES' LIBRARY ASSOCIATION.)"My young Friends: It cheers and comforts me to learn of your well-doing, and encourages me to offer a word of counsel, as prosperity is often more dangerous in its time than adversity. Now is your seed-time. See to it that it is good; for 'whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.' The integrity, intelligence, and elevated bearing, of the Boston mechanics, have been and are a property for each citizen of great value; inasmuch as the good name of our beloved city is a common property, that every citizen has an interest in, and should help to preserve. At your time of life, habits are formed that grow with your years. Avoid rum and tobacco, in all forms, unless prescribed as a medicine; and I will promise you better contracts, heavier purses, happier families, and a more youthful and vigorous old age, by thus avoiding the beginning of evil. God speed you, my young friends, in all your good works! With the enclosed, I pray you to accept the felicitations of the season."Amos Lawrence."

(TO THE MECHANIC APPRENTICES' LIBRARY ASSOCIATION.)

"My young Friends: It cheers and comforts me to learn of your well-doing, and encourages me to offer a word of counsel, as prosperity is often more dangerous in its time than adversity. Now is your seed-time. See to it that it is good; for 'whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.' The integrity, intelligence, and elevated bearing, of the Boston mechanics, have been and are a property for each citizen of great value; inasmuch as the good name of our beloved city is a common property, that every citizen has an interest in, and should help to preserve. At your time of life, habits are formed that grow with your years. Avoid rum and tobacco, in all forms, unless prescribed as a medicine; and I will promise you better contracts, heavier purses, happier families, and a more youthful and vigorous old age, by thus avoiding the beginning of evil. God speed you, my young friends, in all your good works! With the enclosed, I pray you to accept the felicitations of the season.

"Amos Lawrence."

At the commencement of the year 1844, President Hopkins, of Williams College, delivered a course of lectures on the "Evidences of Christianity," before the Lowell Institute, in Boston. Mr. Lawrence had previously seen him, and had thought that he detected, in some features of his face, a resemblance to the family of his first wife. In allusion to this acquaintance, he writes to his son about this period:

"President H. has the family look of your mother enough to belong to them; and it was in consequence of that resemblance, when I was first introduced to him many years ago, that I inquired his origin, and found him to be of the same stock."

The acquaintance was renewed, and an intimacy ensued, which was not only the cause of much happiness to Mr. Lawrence through the remainder of his life, but was also the means of directing his attention to the wants of Williams College, of which he eventually became the greatest benefactor. An active and constantcorrespondence followed this acquaintance, and was so much prized by Mr. Lawrence that he had most of the letters copied, thereby filling several volumes, from which extracts will from time to time be made. In one of his first letters to that gentleman, dated May 11, he says:

"If, by the consecration of my earthly possessions to some extent, I can make the Christian character practically more lovely, and illustrate, in my own case, that the higher enjoyments here are promoted by the free use of the good things intrusted to me, what so good use can I make of them? I feel that my stewardship is a very imperfect one, and that the use of these good things might be extended profitably to myself; and, since I have known how much good the little donation did your college, I feel ashamed of myself it had not been larger,—at any rate, sufficient to have cleared the debt."

To the same gentleman, who had informed Mr. Lawrence that an accident had befallen a plaster bust of himself, he writes, under date of May 16:

"Dear President: You know the phrase 'Such a man's head is full of notions' has a meaning that we all understand to be not to his credit for discretion, whatever else may be said of him. As I propose throwing in a caveat against this general meaning, I proceed to state my case. And, firstly, President H. is made debtor to the Western Railroad Corporation for the transportation of a barrel to Pittsfield. The bill is receipted, so that you can have the barrel to-morrow by sending for it; which barrel contains neither biscuit nor flour, but the clay image of yourfriend. In the head are divers notions that my hand fell upon as I was preparing it for the jaunt; and, when the head was filled with things new and old, I was careful to secure the region under the shoulders, especially on theleft side, and near the heart, by placing there that part of a lady's dress which designates a government that we men are unwilling openly to acknowledge, but is, withal, very conservative. Within its folds I wrapped up very securely 'Pilgrim's Progress,' and stuffed the empty space between my shoulders, and near my heart,brim full, I hope my young friend will find a motive and a moral in the image and in the book, to cheer him on in his pilgrimage of life.""July 22, 1844.—Sixty-seven years ago this day, my mother, now living, was married; and, while standing up for the ceremony, the alarm-bell rang, calling all soldiers to their posts. My father left her within the hour, and repaired to Cambridge; but the colonel, in consideration of the circumstances, allowed him to return to Groton to his wife, and to join his regiment within three days at Rhode Island. This he did, spending but a few hours with his wife; and she saw nothing more of him until the last day of the year, when he made her a visit. I have ordered a thousand dollars paid to the Massachusetts General Hospital, to aid in enlarging its wings, and to commemorate this event. The girls of this day know nothing of the privations and trials of their grandmothers."

"July 22, 1844.—Sixty-seven years ago this day, my mother, now living, was married; and, while standing up for the ceremony, the alarm-bell rang, calling all soldiers to their posts. My father left her within the hour, and repaired to Cambridge; but the colonel, in consideration of the circumstances, allowed him to return to Groton to his wife, and to join his regiment within three days at Rhode Island. This he did, spending but a few hours with his wife; and she saw nothing more of him until the last day of the year, when he made her a visit. I have ordered a thousand dollars paid to the Massachusetts General Hospital, to aid in enlarging its wings, and to commemorate this event. The girls of this day know nothing of the privations and trials of their grandmothers."

On the same day with the above entry in his diary occurs another, in which he alludes to assistance afforded to some young persons in Brattle-street Church,—"sons of Brattle-street, and, as such, assisted by me." Mr. Lawrence's early religious associationswere connected with this church, where, it is believed, he attended from the first Sunday after his coming to Boston. With such associations, and connected as they were with the most endeared recollections of those who had worshipped there with him in early days, all that pertained to this venerable church possessed a strong and abiding interest. In this connection is quoted the beautiful testimony of his pastor, the Rev. Dr. Lothrop, furnished in the funeral sermon delivered by him, where he speaks of Mr. Lawrence's love for the church, as well as of his religious character:

"The prominent feature in Mr. Lawrence's life and character, its inspiration and its guide, was religion,—religious faith, affection, and hope. He loved God, and therefore he loved all God's creatures. He believed in Christ as the Messiah and Saviour of the world, and therefore found peace and strength in his soul, amid all the perils, duties, and sorrows of life. His religious opinions lay distinct and clear in his own mind. They were the result of careful reading and of serious reflection, and were marked by a profound reverence for the Sacred Scriptures, and the divine authority of Jesus Christ. A constant worshipper here during the forty-six years of his residence in this city, for more than forty years of this period a communicant, and for more than ten a deacon of this church,—resigning the office, at length, because of his invalid state of health,—he had strong attachments to this house of God. 'Our venerable church,' he says in one of his notes to me, 'has in it deeply impressive, improving, instructive, and interesting associations, going back to the earlydays of my worshipping there; and the prayers of my friends and fellow-worshippers of three generations, in part now belonging there, come in aid of my weakness in time of need; and no other spot, but that home where I was first taught my prayers, and this my domestic fireside, where my children have been taught theirs, has the same interest as our own old Brattle-square Church.'"

To an old business friend and acquaintance, Joshua Aubin, Esq., the agent of the Amesbury Company, who had from the beginning been associated with him in this first and favorite manufacturing enterprise in which he had engaged, he writes on September 18, after receiving a quantity of manufactured articles for distribution among the poor:

"You are brought very near to me on such a day as this (when I am shut up in the house), by your work as well as by your words."Now, as to your last consignment, I have derived, and expect to derive, as much comfort and enjoyment from it as I ordinarily should from a cash dividend on my shares. In truth, I am able to employ theseodds and endsto such uses and for such persons as will make me feel as though I were spared here for some use."For instance, I had a call from a most respectable friend (president of one of the best colleges in the West) last week, who agreed to come again this week to do some shopping as soon as he got some money for preaching on Sunday, and look over my stock of goods."I intend making him up a good parcel of your work, and, depend on it, it is good seed, and will take root at the West. He says that they have no money, but plenty of corn, and beef, andpork. Corn pays for growing at ten cents a bushel, and will not bring that in cash; and ten bushels will not pay for a calico gown, or a flannel petticoat."With his large family of children, don't you think theseodds and endswill come as a blessing? Besides, he is an old-fashioned Massachusetts Whig; loves the old Bay State as well as ever the Jews loved their State, and is, through his college exercising an influence in —— that no body of men in that State can do; and will, in the end, bring them into regular line, as to education and elevation of character. Send me some of your flannels to give to Madam —— for her family of one or two hundred children in the Children's Friend Society."—— will give them over to these poor little destitute, unclad creatures. They are taken and saved by this interesting society."A rainy day like this is the very time for me to work among my household goods. Many a poor minister and his family, and many a needy student at school or college, fare the better for your spinning and weaving."I am living in my chamber, and on very close allowance. Every day to me is a day of glorious anticipations, if I am free from bodily suffering, and if my mind is free."

"You are brought very near to me on such a day as this (when I am shut up in the house), by your work as well as by your words.

"Now, as to your last consignment, I have derived, and expect to derive, as much comfort and enjoyment from it as I ordinarily should from a cash dividend on my shares. In truth, I am able to employ theseodds and endsto such uses and for such persons as will make me feel as though I were spared here for some use.

"For instance, I had a call from a most respectable friend (president of one of the best colleges in the West) last week, who agreed to come again this week to do some shopping as soon as he got some money for preaching on Sunday, and look over my stock of goods.

"I intend making him up a good parcel of your work, and, depend on it, it is good seed, and will take root at the West. He says that they have no money, but plenty of corn, and beef, andpork. Corn pays for growing at ten cents a bushel, and will not bring that in cash; and ten bushels will not pay for a calico gown, or a flannel petticoat.

"With his large family of children, don't you think theseodds and endswill come as a blessing? Besides, he is an old-fashioned Massachusetts Whig; loves the old Bay State as well as ever the Jews loved their State, and is, through his college exercising an influence in —— that no body of men in that State can do; and will, in the end, bring them into regular line, as to education and elevation of character. Send me some of your flannels to give to Madam —— for her family of one or two hundred children in the Children's Friend Society.

"—— will give them over to these poor little destitute, unclad creatures. They are taken and saved by this interesting society.

"A rainy day like this is the very time for me to work among my household goods. Many a poor minister and his family, and many a needy student at school or college, fare the better for your spinning and weaving.

"I am living in my chamber, and on very close allowance. Every day to me is a day of glorious anticipations, if I am free from bodily suffering, and if my mind is free."

On another occasion he writes to the same gentleman:

"I have your letter and package; the cold of this morning will make the articles doubly acceptable to the shivering and sick poor among us. J. C.'s case is one for sympathy and relief. Engage to supply him a hundred dollars, which I will hand to you when you visit me; and tell the poor fellow to keep in good heart, for our merciful Father afflicts in love, and thus I trust that this will prove a stepping-stone to the mansions of bliss. Ishall never cease to remember with interest the veterans of the A. F. Co. How are my friends B. and others of early days? Also, how is old father F.? Does he need my warm outside coat, when I get supplied with a better?"After your call upon me a few weeks since, I went back in memory to scenes of olden times, which had an interest that you can sympathize in, and which I intended to express to you before this; but I have had one of those admonitory ill turns since, that kept me under the eye of the doctor for a number of days."In reviewing my beginnings in manufacturing, under your recommendation and care, almost a quarter of a century ago, I can see the men, the machines, the wheel-pit, and the speed-gauge, and especially I can see our old friend W. lying on the bottom of the pit, lamp in hand, with his best coat on, eying the wheels and cogs as an astronomer makes observations in an observatory. All these scenes are as fresh in my memory as though seen but yesterday."Do you remember C. B., the brother of J. and G. B.? All three of whom were business men here at the time you were, and all were unfortunate. C. tried his; hand in ——, and did not succeed there; returned to this country, and settled on a tract of land in ——, where he has been hard at work for ten years, and has maintained his family. His wife died a few months since. One after another of his family sickened, and he became somewhat straitened, and knew not what to do. He wrote to an old business friend, who was his debtor, and who had failed, had paid a part only, and was discharged thirty years ago, and who has since been prosperous. He stated his case, and asked me to say a good word for him. That person sent one half, and I sent the other half, the day before Thanksgiving. It will reach him on Monday next, and will make his eyes glisten with joy."Remember me to Capt. —— and J. C, and B., and any other of the veterans."

"After your call upon me a few weeks since, I went back in memory to scenes of olden times, which had an interest that you can sympathize in, and which I intended to express to you before this; but I have had one of those admonitory ill turns since, that kept me under the eye of the doctor for a number of days.

"In reviewing my beginnings in manufacturing, under your recommendation and care, almost a quarter of a century ago, I can see the men, the machines, the wheel-pit, and the speed-gauge, and especially I can see our old friend W. lying on the bottom of the pit, lamp in hand, with his best coat on, eying the wheels and cogs as an astronomer makes observations in an observatory. All these scenes are as fresh in my memory as though seen but yesterday.

"Do you remember C. B., the brother of J. and G. B.? All three of whom were business men here at the time you were, and all were unfortunate. C. tried his; hand in ——, and did not succeed there; returned to this country, and settled on a tract of land in ——, where he has been hard at work for ten years, and has maintained his family. His wife died a few months since. One after another of his family sickened, and he became somewhat straitened, and knew not what to do. He wrote to an old business friend, who was his debtor, and who had failed, had paid a part only, and was discharged thirty years ago, and who has since been prosperous. He stated his case, and asked me to say a good word for him. That person sent one half, and I sent the other half, the day before Thanksgiving. It will reach him on Monday next, and will make his eyes glisten with joy.

"Remember me to Capt. —— and J. C, and B., and any other of the veterans."

Sept. 23, Mr. Lawrence receives from an old debtor, once a clerk in his establishment, a check for five hundred dollars, which a sense of justice had induced him to send, though the debt of some thousands had been long since legally discharged. On receiving it, he writes, in a memorandum at the bottom of the letter received, to his brother and partner:

"Dear Abbott: I have the money. J. D. was always a person of truth. I take the statement as true; but I had no recollection of the thing till recalled by his statement. What say you to putting this money into the life office, in trust for his sister?Your affectionate brother,Amos.""Memorandum.November 23.—Done, and policy sent to the sister."

Your affectionate brother,

Amos."

"Memorandum.November 23.—Done, and policy sent to the sister."

There are but few men, distinguished in public or private life, who are burdened with an undue amount of praise from their contemporaries; and yet this was the case with Mr. Lawrence, who was often chagrined, after some deed of charity, or some written expression of sympathy, to see it emblazoned, with superadded colors, in the public prints. Some one had enclosed to him a newspaper from another city, which contained a most labored and flattering notice of the kind referred to, to which he writes the following reply:

"September, 1844."Dear ——: I received the paper last evening, and have read and re-read it with deep interest and attention. However true it may he, it is not calculated to promote the ultimate good of any of us; for we are all inclined to think full well enough of ourselves; and such puffs should be left for our obituaries. Truth is not always to be pushed forward; and its advocates may sometimes retard it by injudicious urging. Such is the danger in the present case. The writer appears to be a young man who has received favors, and is laboring to repay them or secure more. He has told the truth; but, as I before said, neither you nor I, nor any one of our families, are improved or benefited in any degree by it. God grant us to be humble, diligent, and faithful to the end of our journey, that we may then receive his approval, and be placed among the good of all nations and times!"

"September, 1844.

"Dear ——: I received the paper last evening, and have read and re-read it with deep interest and attention. However true it may he, it is not calculated to promote the ultimate good of any of us; for we are all inclined to think full well enough of ourselves; and such puffs should be left for our obituaries. Truth is not always to be pushed forward; and its advocates may sometimes retard it by injudicious urging. Such is the danger in the present case. The writer appears to be a young man who has received favors, and is laboring to repay them or secure more. He has told the truth; but, as I before said, neither you nor I, nor any one of our families, are improved or benefited in any degree by it. God grant us to be humble, diligent, and faithful to the end of our journey, that we may then receive his approval, and be placed among the good of all nations and times!"

On the 29th. of October, Mrs. Appleton, his sister-in-law, and widow of the Rev. Jesse Appleton, D.D., formerly President of Bowdoin College, died at his house, after a lingering illness. In a letter to his son, after describing her character and peaceful death, he says:

"With such a life and such hopes, who can view the change as any other than putting away the fugitive and restless pleasures of an hour for the quiet and fixed enjoyments of eternity? Let us, then, my dear children, not look upon the separation of a few short years as a calamity to be dreaded, should we not meet here again in any other way than as we now meet. While I am here, every joy and enjoyment you experience, and give us an accountof, is not less so to us than if we were with you to partake, as we have done of all such heretofore; and, in this source of enjoyment, few people have such ample stores. Three families of children and grandchildren within my daily walk,—is not this enough for any man? And here I would impress upon my grandsons the importance of looking carefully to their steps. The difference between going just right and a little wrong in the commencement of the journey of life, is the difference between their finding a happy home or a miserable slough at the end of the journey. Teach them to avoid tobacco and intoxicating drink, and all temptations that can lead them into evil, as it is easier to prevent than to remedy a fault. 'An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.' I was going on to say that, according to my estimate of men and things, I would not change conditions with Louis Philippe if I could by a wish, rich as he is in the matter of good children. I have a great liking for him, and a sincere respect for his family, as they are reported to me; but I trust that mine will not be tried by the temptations of great worldly grandeur, but that they will be found faithful stewards of the talents intrusted to them. Bring up your boys to do their work first, and enjoy their play afterwards. Begin early to teach them habits of order, a proper economy, and exact accountability in their affairs. This simple rule of making a child, after he is twelve years old, keep an exact account of all that he wears, uses, or expends, in any and every way, would save more suffering to families than can fairly be estimated by those who have not observed its operation."And now, to change the subject," he writes Nov. 15, "we have got through the elections, and are humbled as Americans. The questions affecting our local labor, produce, and pecuniary interests, are of small moment, compared with that of annexingTexas to this Union. I wrote a brief note yesterday to our friend Chapman, late Mayor of the city, and a member of the Whig Committee, which speaks the language of my heart. It was as follows:"'My dear Sir: The result of the election in Massachusetts is matter of devout and grateful feelings to every good citizen, and, so far as pride is allowable, is a subject of pride to every citizen, whatever his politics; for, wherever he goes, and carries the evidence of belonging to the old Bay State, he may be sure of the respect of all parties. This glorious result has not been wrought "without works;" and for it we, the people, are greatly indebted to your committee. So far as may be needed, I trust you will find no backwardness on our part in putting matters right. I bless God for sparing my life to this time; and I humbly beseech him to crown your labors with success in future. If Texas can be kept off, there will be hope for our government. All other questions are insignificant in comparison with this. The damning sin of adding it to this nation to extend slavery will be as certain to destroy us as death is to overtake us. The false step, once taken, cannot be retraced, and will be to the people who occupy what rum is to the toper. It eats up and uproots the very foundation on which Christian nations are based, and will make us the scorn of all Christendom. Let us work, then, in a Christian spirit, as we would for our individual salvation, to prevent this sad calamity befalling us.'"

"And now, to change the subject," he writes Nov. 15, "we have got through the elections, and are humbled as Americans. The questions affecting our local labor, produce, and pecuniary interests, are of small moment, compared with that of annexingTexas to this Union. I wrote a brief note yesterday to our friend Chapman, late Mayor of the city, and a member of the Whig Committee, which speaks the language of my heart. It was as follows:

"'My dear Sir: The result of the election in Massachusetts is matter of devout and grateful feelings to every good citizen, and, so far as pride is allowable, is a subject of pride to every citizen, whatever his politics; for, wherever he goes, and carries the evidence of belonging to the old Bay State, he may be sure of the respect of all parties. This glorious result has not been wrought "without works;" and for it we, the people, are greatly indebted to your committee. So far as may be needed, I trust you will find no backwardness on our part in putting matters right. I bless God for sparing my life to this time; and I humbly beseech him to crown your labors with success in future. If Texas can be kept off, there will be hope for our government. All other questions are insignificant in comparison with this. The damning sin of adding it to this nation to extend slavery will be as certain to destroy us as death is to overtake us. The false step, once taken, cannot be retraced, and will be to the people who occupy what rum is to the toper. It eats up and uproots the very foundation on which Christian nations are based, and will make us the scorn of all Christendom. Let us work, then, in a Christian spirit, as we would for our individual salvation, to prevent this sad calamity befalling us.'"

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